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Adopt A Foster Child Through Heart Gallery Of Tampa
Local Businesses Can Get Financial Help From Hillsborough County
On the webof Tampa was site of Heart created to find Gallery of forever families Tampa, there for Tampa’s fosare individual ter children who pictures of cute, have experismiling, nicely enced abandondressed kids like ment, abuse you would see and neglect. at the mall, playMany carry ing soccer in the everything they park or being Children at Heart Gallery of Tampa are waiting for own in a green dropped off by families to view their smiling pictures, read about plastic bag. their goals and dreams and adopt them. parents at Recently, school. Except, beneath each picture is Heart Gallery of Tampa expressed gratione of these three labels: “Found a tude for Riverview’s local hairdressers Family,” “Potentially Matched” or who donated time and talents helping 18 “Available.” foster children get back-to-school hairEach smiling picture and short procuts. With the uncertainties surrounding file represents a child hoping for a forev- this school year, the haircuts provided er family: some sense of normalcy for these local Armani (Found a Family): foster kids. “Destined for greatness.” On track for an Heart Gallery of Tampa is also early graduation and intends to head grateful for financial donations: $1,000 straight to college to become an will sponsor a child for one year, $500 OB/GYN doctor. will sponsor a child for six months, $300 Aries (Potentially Matched): “My provides one birthday party, $200 prosmile lights up a room.” Loves to play vides a birthday present for one child outside, ride his bike, dreams of going to and $100 provides school supplies for Disney World and hopes to wake up one child. with super powers and be able to fly. Lindsay Hermida, program director, Anna (Available): “I like spiders!” explained that 100 children are selected She dreams of ice skating outdoors and for the pictorial site and the majority are climbing mountains, though her ideal older, part of a sibling group or have day would be at Disney World dressed special needs. These children need speup as Queen Elsa from Frozen. cial families to open their hearts, homes Elijah (Available): “I’m a math and lives to adopt them. “The whole whiz!” He loves everything from video focus of our mission is to be out in the games to sports to chorus and excels in community to share our message…help math. He dreams of going to Florida spread the word about our kids waiting State University. for a place to call home.” These and all the other children For more information, visit have one thing in common: they are www.heartgallerytampa.org or email hoping for forever homes. Heart Gallery Lindsay@HeartGalleryTampa.org.
Local businessfare, with an es that have lost emphasis on revenue because of Filipino dishes. the public health According to response to the Isabella Rosal, one COVID-19 pandemof TBD@301’s ic may be eligible for owners, the finanfinancial assistance cial support from from Hillsborough Hillsborough County. County is indeed TBD@301 is one of the businesses The money is receiving grants from Hillsborough County making a difference to help cover expenses during the COVID- for the family busibeing disbursed 19 pandemic. through the counness. ty’s Rapid Response “The grants we have Recovery (R3) program, received have been our life which has been allocating support,” Rosal added. financial support to businessSocial distancing has meant es affected by the pandemic. Eligibility cri- fewer weddings and corporate events for teria has been recently expanded in order ABC Event Planning, but Owner Craig to help more businesses. Beckinger said the $10,000 grant he Financial grants up to $40,000 are received will make its way back into the available depending on the size of the economy. business. The grants do not need to be “It’ll allow me to keep the doors open repaid and can be spent on expenses and pay bills,” he said. Beckinger added such as rent, wages and vendor invoices. that the Florida Small Business Applications will be accepted through Development Center at the University of Tuesday, December 1, or until funding is South Florida provided helpful resources exhausted. in applying for his grant. Lynn Kroesen manages the To learn more about the R3 financial Hillsborough County Entrepreneur assistance, visit hillsboroughcounty.org or Collaborative Center and said the R3 pro- call 888-393-7509. gram is a significant initiative to keep business owners operating. “This provides us an opportunity to In This Issue provide them the financial assistance they need in a very challenging time, to get through some of the difficult challenges A DOOR OF HOPE.............................PG 3 they might be having,” said Kroesen. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIR .........PG 5 Helping get the word out about the R3 program are groups like the Greater LOCAL OUTDOOR MARKETS.............PG 6 Riverview Chamber of Commerce. According to Membership Director HCC GRANTS.....................................PG 9 Debbie Kirkland, the support is needed. LIVING IN COVID......................PGS 10‐11 “Several of our businesses have been significantly hurt during this panEYE ON BUSINESS....................PGS 17‐18 demic and any form of financial assisARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 24 tance is greatly appreciated. For some, the grants can mean the difference SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 26 between staying open or closing their doors.” READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE Among the businesses funded is www.ospreyobserver.com TBD@301, a cafe serving a variety of
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 9
September 2020
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Hillsborough Parks & Recreation Receives Statewide Honors For Projects
A Door Of Hope Offers Loving Christian Homes To Tampa Bay Foster Children
The Hillsborough Coaching Alliance curCounty Parks & riculum. The programRecreation ming includes a strong Department’s commitcomponent for those ment to providing qualwith disabilities, and its ity, affordable recrefee structure is ation opportunities to designed to make the the community has camps accessible to earned two top honors all youth. A wide variThe Hillsborough County Parks & from the Florida ety of partnerships Recreation Department earned two Recreation and Park with community top honors from the Florida Recreation and Park Association this groups, including the Association. month. Hillsborough Hillsborough County County Parks & Recreation won a 2020 Sheriff’s Office, Boys & Girls Clubs of Agency Excellence Award in the America, Tampa Bay Lightning, communiCommunity Building category for its ty homeowner’s associations and civic efforts to serve and enhance the commu- groups, were also a factor, as well as a nity through its 166 parks, 118 playstrong community involvement, including grounds, 53 community centers and near- more than 30 signature events. Efforts to ly 50 sports complexes. The department change the way the urban forest is manalso manages 55 youth sports organizaaged, including development of an urban tions that served 26,439 youth particiforest master plan that calls for planting pants last year. 27,000 trees by 2024, were also featured The department’s accomplishments in the decision. include the transformation of Lucy Dell In addition to honors for Community Community Pond park from an overBuilding, Nature Program Specialist Brad grown water basin that attracted illegal Lympany was named the 2020 Rising dumping to an attractive pond featuring Star for his work developing and implean LED-lit boardwalk and native landmenting Hillsborough County Parks & scaping. The department also led the cre- Recreation programs and building relaation of Carrollwood Village Park, which tionships with the community. turned a decommissioned wastewater Lympany was directly involved with treatment facility into a park with an several of the department’s most popular amphitheater, fitness challenge course, programs, including Hiking Spree, skate park, dog park, splash park, incluSenior’s Outdoor Active Recreation sive playground and 24-hour gym for (SOAR), and Eco Adventure Camp. county deputies. Lympany works with a wide variety of Also contributing to the department’s community groups, including Outdoor selection was the wide range of licensed Afro and the Florida Youth Conservation after-school and summer camp proCenters Network. To learn more, visit grams, which includes the Positive www.hillsboroughcounty.org.
There is a door in ment coordinator the United States that for ADOH, people most Americans don’t decide to become open. If they did, they foster parents for a would discover some variety of reasons. startling statistics “My husband and I about foster care: had a desire to be According to parents, but, due to iFoster in 2019, there a medical condition, are 440,000 foster couldn’t make that youth nationwide; the happen on our need for foster parents own. The idea of is at an all time high; foster care was prethe median age in fossented. We began ter care is 6 ½ years classes in February old; only 5 percent of A foster family after walking through A 2016 and were rural youth and 21 perlicensed by May Door of Hope. cent of urban foster youth report access 2016. We took our very first placement of to a computer at home; 30,000 youth two little boys ages 2 and 3 and later between 18-21 years old age out of the adopted them and their little sister in foster system annually and exit without 2018.” having found a forever home, necessitatWeaver explained that the foster ing fending for themselves; and the price process involves filling out an inquiry form of underinvesting in foster youth results in at adoorofhope.com, receiving an intake $1 million in societal costs. phone call and attending an orientation Closer to home in the area surround- followed by professional parenting training Tampa Bay, an average of nine chiling. A home study will then be completed. dren are in crises every day and are Once approved, you’ll be licensed. ADOH removed from their homes because of will provide support and walk families abuse, neglect or abandonment. through the process from start to finish. However, there is a special door in Currently, there are 190 licensed fosthe Tampa Bay area that has opened to ter care homes in this area. ADOH has reveal an opportunity for those seeking to set a goal of 300-plus homes by 2023. To change the present dismal foster care achieve that goal, only one family per statistics. A Door of Hope (ADOH) offers church would foster one child in crises, an opportunity for kids in crisis to find lovthen every child would have a home. ing homes. ADOH recruits, trains, licensFor information on fostering, financial es and supports Christian foster homes in donations ($500 to place a child) or the Florida Suncoast region. events in November and Christmas for According to Sarah Weaver, develop- fosters, visit adoorofhope.com.
Staff Report
By Gwen Rollings
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Volume 15, Issue 9
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Dove Interiors Celebrates 30 Years In Business Offering Showroom & In Home Design Dove Interiors Carpet One Floor & Home, owned by mother/daughter duo Joan Miller and Kimberly Scott, is celebrating its 30th year in business in September, a milestone most businesses don’t reach. Its office and showroom, located at 2305 E. College Ave. in Ruskin, is a onestop shop for helping homeowners make their dream homes a reality, offering custom flooring options for every home, from tile to hardwood, carpet to vinyl. In addition to flooring options, Dove Interiors’ experts can measure and install a variety of window treatment options and custom drapery. It’s also a one-stop shop when renovating kitchen and baths, from custom cabinetry to countertops. The family-owned operation sprouted from Miller’s leap of faith in 1991, when she walked away from a successful career in finance to open Dove Interiors with her two children, Kimberly and Rick. “We just made the decision to start a family business and moved into a small space in the Sun Pointe Shopping Center where we were warmly welcomed by the community,” said Scott, who credits their success to their trust that God would help them through both the good times and the bad. “He’s allowed us to make it through some really tough times, during recessions times as well as through personal trials,” said Scott. Those personal trials include the passing of her brother, Rick,
By Michelle Caceres
four years ago. “He was such an important part of our family, our business, but we had faith that the Lord would provide us with the strength to march on,” she said. And march on they have. The company’s 13 employees in addition to installation crews have all been able to continue working and get paid during the pandemic. “We are dedicated to our staff because they are dedicated to us and our customers,” said Scott. The Preserve at FishHawk Ranch resident Claudia Figgins is one customer of Dove Interiors who has seen firsthand that dedication. A friend referred her to Dove Interiors when she was looking for a company to install blinds in her new home. “My friend did all the legwork, searching for someone who had excellent reviews at a competitive price,” she said. “When I met Kimberly, I knew immediately I would become a customer.” Scott and her team installed Silhouette automatic window shadings in her home and she couldn’t be more pleased with the result. “They were so meticulous and I love the finished product,” she said. Dove Interiors’ showroom is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Don’t feel like driving to the showroom? Call and Dove bring samples to you.Call 642-4369 or visit www.doveinteriorscarpetone.com.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
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2020 County Fair Offers Livestock & Harvest Queen Events Only
By Taylor Wells
The 2020 Livestock Shows and Hillsborough County Sales. Fair will be having a Registration for restricted opening due the breeding shows to the COVID-19 panwill remain open until demic. For the health October 1 and updatand safety of the fair ed entry rules and staff, volunteers, fairgoinformation will be ers and all vested parreleased soon on ties, the Hillsborough www.hillsboroughPhoto courtesy of Berry County Fair Board of countyfair.com. Sweet Memories by Dee Directors voted to The Harvest Dee Wheeler modify the fair events Queen Scholarship Two Harvest Queen Scholarship Pageant Pageant will take to hold only the Youth participants (left and right) with their Livestock Shows and place on Saturday, market lamb in 2019. the Harvest Queen Scholarship Pageant. September 19 as originally planned. All other aspects of the fair will be postContestants will be notified via email by poned until 2021. the pageant committee with the new, speThe Youth Livestock Shows and cific guidelines. The pageant will also be Sales will still be held from Thursday, a closed event open only to the contestOctober 22 through Sunday, November ants, their families and the judges. 1, but with an updated schedule and “We’ve held those events ever since modified rules to adhere to the CDC recthe beginning of the fair and we felt that ommendations for Youth Livestock Shows we had to modify the schedule to make it at county fairs. work, but we wanted to still provide that All aspects for the Youth Livestock for the youth because they already had Shows will take place, except for the their animals, they worked for many, Youth Rabbit Show, due to rabbits being many months to prepare for the show potential carriers of the virus. Exhibitors and sale and we just wanted to do them for the youth rabbit show will be notified justice in regards to following through and by the livestock director and all entry fees seeing that happen,” said Fair Manager paid will be refunded. Suzanne Holcomb. These shows will now be closed For more information, contact the fair shows open only to the exhibitor and their office at 737-FAIR or Holcomb at families, but they will be livestreamed via suzanne@hillsboroughcountyfair.com. its Facebook page. Information will be For more information about the Youth released in the next few weeks on the Livestock Shows, email Livestock fair’s website and Facebook page and will Director Serena Stratton at be emailed directly to exhibitors that have rena70@aol.com. For more, call Pageant already registered for this year’s Youth Director Kelli Messick at 737-FAIR.
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See our o website for additional informatio on. All are welcomed to participate in the sp piritually meaningful High Holiday services this year at CBS for fre ee. Join our community to celebrate this important time in the safe ety of your own home. We so appreciate your support and wou uld ask that you increase your donation this year so that we may continue to provide special i l programming i through th h 5781. 5781
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 9
Local Markets Offer Outside Shopping, Crafts, Art, Produce & More
By Tatiana Ortiz
With COVID-19 restrictions still in place, many residents prefer shopping in the open air and local markets throughout the area are stepping up to offer that option.
The Rustic Door Décor & More Brandon Sunday Market
The Rustic Door Décor & More will have its Brandon Sunday Market on October 25 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. It will feature a variety of vendors, food trucks, local artisans, fresh produce and more. This community event occurs every fourth Sunday of the month from October through April. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/brandonsundaymarket. It is located at 772 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Call 6553667.
The Rustic Door Décor & More Valrico Grand Opening Festival
Come celebrate the grand opening of The Rustic Door Décor & More’s Valrico location as it kicks off the market season with local vendors outside on Sunday, September 27 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. It is pet friendly. Foods by the plaza restaurants, such as La Villa Mexican Grill and more, will be provided. It is located at 4367 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico. Email therusticdoormarket@gmail.com.
Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. Launches Monthly Bullfrog Creek Night Market
Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. will be launching its monthly night market this month from from 6-10 p.m. Attendees will get to hear live music, see artisan vendors and much more. For more information and dates,
search for Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. on Facebook. It is located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Contact 703-8835.
Valrico Sunday Market At Chill Cawfee
The Valrico Sunday Market Artisan Faire under the grandfather oaks occurs every second Sunday and fourth Sunday of the month. Live music will be provided. Nearly 40 vendors will be present with items such as handmade jewelry, a variety of foods and much more. For more information, search for the Valrico Sunday Market on Facebook. It is located at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.
JF Kicks Restaurant & Patio Bar Saturday At The Market Vendor Event
JF Kicks Restaurant & Patio Bar is having it Saturday at the Market Vendor event on the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. During the event, JF Kicks will be serving lunch specials. With the the event under the treeline a selection of baked goods, custom items and more will be available. For more information, search for the event on Facebook. It is located at 3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Contact 643-7777.
Art Monkey Emporium Merchant Market
The Art Monkey Emporium will have its monthly market on Saturday, September 12 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. These monthly markets will take place on the second Saturday of each month. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/316 200686395591/. It is located at 16132 Churchview Dr. in Lithia. Contact 315-9803.
Winthrop’s Pop-Up Market At Mama’s General Store
Mama’s General Store is restarting its outdoor gift market on Saturday, September 19 from 9 a.m.-
2 p.m. It will take place every third Saturday of the month. Discover many local artists, small businesses and makers under the old oak tree by its store and Full Grown Girl. For more information, visit www.mamasgeneral.com/market. It is located at 11349 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. Contact 379-9799.
tion, visit http://www.jensmarket.com. It is located at 536 Bahia Beach Blvd. in Ruskin. Email Jennifer@jens-market.com.
Ruskin Family Drive-In Market Is Open
The Market at the Ruskin Family Drive-In is back open for its once a month event on the fourth Saturday of each month, except for in December. The event is free and pet friendly. Bring home wreaths, jewelry, sweet treats and other unique items during a visit on Saturday, September 26 from 9 a.m.2 p.m. For more information, search for the Market at the Ruskin Family Drive-In on Facebook. It is located at 5011 U.S. Hwy. 41 N. in Ruskin. Contact 6451455.
Mira Bay Market At The Salty Shamrock Irish Pub
Mira Bay Market at the Salty Shamrock Irish Pub will be having an event on Sunday, October 18, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. This takes place on the third Sunday of each month. It is pet friendly, free to attend and attendees are provided free parking. This market is in its fifth year. Tungett Produce and Citrus will have locally
The Little Harbor Market At Harborside Suites
In its sixth year, the Market at Little Harbor at Harborside Suites will take place on Saturday, October 10 from 12 Noon-5 p.m. It occurs on the second Saturday of every month. The event is pet friendly. It is free to attend and offers free parking. An array of crafts, pet products, local packaged foods and more will be available. For more informa-
farmed vegetables and citrus available here, along with many other different vendors. For more information, visit http://www.jens-market.com. It is located at 6186 U.S. Hwy. 41 S. in Apollo Beach. Email Jennifer@jensmarket.com.
Sunday Pop-Up Market With Smokeez BBQ
The Sunday Pop-Up Market with Smokeez BBQ will occur on the first Sunday of every month, from 9 a.m.1 p.m. This pop-up vendor market is free and kid friendly. It features local vendors selling gifts, local honey and more. For more information, search for the event on Facebook. It is located at 204 W. Shell Point Rd. in Ruskin. Contact Melissa Busbee @mbusbee83@gmail.com.
September 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 7
Chamber Hosts Business Excellence Awards, Names Saladino Key Citizen
BayCare And St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Launch Back-To-School Resource Hub
The Greater companies that were Brandon Chamber of honored are Brandon Commerce held its Regional Hospital, annual Business Hillsborough County Excellence Awards last Sheriff’s Office and month, recognizing TECO. These compabusinesses in different nies give their time and categories for their resources to help accomplishments. make Leadership Individual awards are Brandon a program of also given to members immense value. of the community for Two individuals their dedication and were also recognized service to the Greater during the event. Brandon area. While The Greater Brandon Chamber of Robert Bivins was recCommerce held its annual Business ognized with the this was a more intiExcellence Awards last month. mate event than in Community past years due to COVID-19 restrictions, Leadership Award. This award recog“It was an evening enjoyed by all,” said nizes a person for their dedication and Bernadette Pello, 2020 Chairman of the service to our community. Tony Saladino Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. was recognized with the Key Citizen The five business categories and the Award for his dedication and service to winners are as follows: our community. Both gentlemen are •Emerging Business – Nuvita Chiropractic known for being giving, their generosity •1-5 Employees – Warped Vision and their selfless service to our commu•6-20 Employees – Bivins and Hemenway, nity. P.A. Presenting awards for the evening •21-plus Employees – Fuzzy’s Taco Shop consisted of past winners and elected •Nonprofit – Brandon Sports and Aquatic officials, including County Commissioner Center Sandra Murman, School Board Chair The Greater Brandon Chamber of Melissa Snively, Senator Darryl Commerce also recognized three comRousson, House Representative Adam panies for their dedication and support Hattersley and Congressman Ross to the Leadership Brandon program. Spano (via video). Leadership Brandon is the signature “The evening was a much-deserved program at the chamber where memcelebration for our finalists and winbers take part in an intense leadership ners,” said Pello. development program and are To learn more about the Greater immersed into the various other proBrandon Chamber of Commerce, visit grams in our community. The three www.brandonchamber.com.
Going back to helping children cope with school may look difCOVID-19, keeping kids ferent for many famisafe while social distanclies this year. To proing, how to kill germs in vide parents and the home and tips for caregivers informakeeping kids active while tion to help get kids eLearning at home. back to learning General back-tosafely, BayCare school topics such as BayCare is teaming up with St. launched its back-to- Joseph’s Children’s Hospital to offer immunizations, backpack school resource online back-to-school resources for safety, healthy lunch students. hub: options and signs of bulBayCareBackToSchool.org. lying. “Whether a child will go back to The web page is organized with school in person or learn at home, we COVID-19 resources at the top, followed want to help them stay healthy—both by general learning information for physically and mentally,” said St. infants/toddlers, kids and teens. Content Joseph’s Children’s Hospital President is arranged by target audience so that Sarah Naumowich. users can easily find the information they On the back-to-school resource need. page, families have access to podcasts, “The back-to-school resource hub videos and articles that offer health and offers a variety of information to help get safety information as well as the opporkids back to learning safely and we hope tunity to find a pediatrician or pediatric families in our community find the specialist. resource helpful,” said Naumowich. Some of the featured content BayCare is a leading not-for-profit includes: healthcare system that connects individVideo interviews featuring BayCare uals and families to a wide range of experts regarding back-to-school safety services at 15 hospitals and hundreds of and how to talk to kids about the best other convenient locations throughout way to properly wear and store masks. the Tampa Bay and West Central Florida A podcast discussion regarding the regions. Inpatient and outpatient servicdecision to send kids back to school in es include acute care, primary care, person during COVID-19. imaging, laboratory, behavioral health, Animated videos for children that home care and wellness. Its mission is demonstrate the proper way to wear a to improve the health of all it serves mask, how to prevent the spread of through community-owned healthcare germs and the proper way to wash your services that set the standard for highhands. quality, compassionate care. For more Articles that provide information on information, visit www.BayCare.org.
Staff Report
Staff Report
BEAUTIFUL HOMES START WITH BEAUTIFUL FLOORS
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Creative Junk Therapy, New Nonprofit Brings Creativity To The Community
By Libby Hopkins
Karen Koseck can use our makand her family erspace to make moved to the your own personBrandon area from alized piece. We Chicago in 2003. always need volShe started taking unteers to help painting and drawwith events, projing classes at ects and processCenter Place many ing materials as years ago, which well.” rekindled her pasIf you ask sion for art. Koseck what she Karen Koseck is the executive director of “I wanted to Creative Junk Therapy, a nonprofit creative likes most about find a way to help her job, she’ll tell reuse center that promotes creativity, environmental awareness and community others find their you it’s the excitethrough reuse. purpose or peace ment she brings through art,” Koseck said. “After attending to her clients. a forum of the arts seminar with Mayor “I love the excitement of the people,” Jane Castor last year, I found a renewed she said. “We have tried to make a fun, desire for making a living creatively.” interesting environment and there is a lot A friend introduced her to the creative to see. Our goal is to encourage people reuse concept and we attended a boot to reconsider the things they throw away.” camp at Reconsidered Goods in Koseck and her staff have gotten Greensboro, North Carolina. The concept great feedback from their clients on the combines art with reuse and upcycling. classes they took at Creative Junk “We found a space that allows us to Therapy. sell materials, do upcycle projects, a “We have had such a great response gallery to showcase creations and host from everyone,” Koscek said. “They are classes and workshops,” she explained. normally doubtful of their abilities, but And so, Creative Junk Therapy, a pleasantly surprised at the end result.” nonprofit creative reuse center to promote To learn more about Creative Junk creativity, environmental awareness and Therapy or if you’d like to take a class at community through reuse, was born. the studio, visit “We offer many classes and workwww.facebook.com/CreativeJunkTherapy shops,” Koseck said. “Many of the reuse or call Koseck at 324-9777. Creative Junk projects are for sale as well as a host of Therapy is located at 10236 Fisher Ave., unique materials to help you get your Ste. A in Tampa. It is closed on Monday craft on. If you prefer to drop in and work and Tuesday and is open Wednesdayon something independently, we have Friday, 4-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 project examples and supplies so you p.m.; and Sunday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Volume 15, Issue 9
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ – Your Questions Answered Staff Report
Homeowners in Florida less of whether it is native or know the scorching heat can not. However, a plant’s native wreak havoc on lawns and status does not automatically landscapes, which can mean it will thrive in all parts increase your yard irrigation of Florida, especially in and your water bill. That’s developed urban environwhy Florida-Friendly ments. As long as gardeners Landscaping™ (FFL) is avoid using invasive species, gaining in popularity. The the Florida-Friendly Southwest Florida Water Landscaping Program allows Management District’s senfor the inclusion of non-native ior communications coordilandscape plants. nator, Katherine Munson, Q: Can my homeownexplains here what Floridaer’s association (HOA) proKatherine Munson is a Friendly Landscaping really hibit me from using senior communications means and the benefits it Florida-friendly landscape? coordinator with the District. provides. A: Yes, if the HOA Q: What is Florida-Friendly review board is permitted to do so Landscaping? through its covenants or deed restrictions. A: Florida-Friendly Landscaping is a An HOA may specify the options availset of nine guiding principles which help able to homeowners so long as the list of protect natural resources and preserve potential plants, turfgrasses and mulch Florida’s unique beauty. A Florida-friendly options are suited to site-specific condilandscape is beautiful yet saves water tions that reflect the ‘right plant, right and protects the environment too. place’ principle of Florida-Friendly Q: What are the nine guiding prinLandscaping. ciples of Florida-Friendly Q: Where can I find a list of Landscaping? Florida-friendly plants for my yard? A: The nine guiding principles of A: Check out the Florida-Friendly Florida-Friendly Landscaping are right Landscaping™ Guide to Plant Selection plant, right place; water efficiently; fertilize & Landscape Design, which provides appropriately; mulch; attract wildlife; man- information on hundreds of plants. You age yard pests responsibly; recycle; can order a free copy on the Southwest reduce stormwater runoff; and protect the Florida Water Management District’s webwaterfront. site at watermatters.org/resources/freeQ: Why doesn’t the Floridapublications. You can also review the Friendly Landscaping Program proFlorida-Friendly Landscaping Plant mote using only native plants? Database at A: The Florida-Friendly Landscaping floridayards.org/fyplants/index.php, which Program emphasizes always matching is a searchable plant list that includes the right plant with the right place, regard- both native and non-native options.
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September 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 9
HCC Awarded $1.8 Million Federal Funding For Student Support Services Grants
Winthrop Arts Presents Pallet-O-Ween, Walkable Community Display
The U.S. Many Student Department of Support Services Education announced alumni have gone on recently that to great success. Hillsborough Among them are Community College Emmy, Tony and (HCC) will receive a Academy Award-winfederal Student ning actress Viola Support Services Davis; U.S. Rep. (SSS) grant of Gwendolyn Moore of $1,891,185.00 to help Wisconsin’s 4th more students sucDistrict; and Franklin ceed in and graduate Chang-Diaz, the first from college. Hispanic astronaut. According to HCC SSS began in representatives, this 1968 and is one of amount represents an Hillsborough Community College will the eight federal receive a federal Student Support increase of $64,000 Services (SSS) grant of $1,891,185.00 ‘TRIO’ programs for the grant period of to help more students succeed in and authorized by the graduate from college. 2020-2024. Higher Education Act HCC received its first TRIO SSS to help college students succeed in highgrant in 1974 and for 46 years the proer education. It recognizes that students gram has served more than 8,000 stuwhose parents do not have a college dents and boasts a high graduation rate. degree have more difficulties navigating Over the last five years, student particithe complexity of decisions that college pants were awarded $352,938 in scholrequires for success; it bolsters students arships. from low-income families who have not SSS helps college students who are had the academic opportunities that their low-income, first-generation (those college peers have had and helps stuwhose parents do not have a four-year dents with disabilities remove obstacles college degree) or students with disabilipreventing them from thriving academities. The array of services the grant will cally. provide are comprehensive and will For more than 50 years, nationally, include academic tutoring, financial aid the Student Support Services program advice, career and college mentoring, has made important contributions to indihelp in choosing courses and other viduals and society as a whole by proforms of assistance. Such services viding a broad range of services to help enhance academic success and make it students succeed. This vital program more likely that students will graduate or can and does make all the difference. transfer with the lowest possible debt. To learn more, visit hccfl.edu.
Winthrop Arts, a Participants will have nonprofit arts organizathree levels of sponsortion located in Riverview, ship to choose from, has planned a fun and beginning with $125 level unique fall fundraiser all the way to $500, which called Pallet-O-Ween. gets you a completely Businesses, organizacreated work of art. tions, neighborhoods, Winthrop Arts will provide families and friends can the basics, such as the participate by creating pallets and fun or spooky paint. Halloween-themed Participants pieces of art using recyprovide the cled pallets. The art embellishpieces will be on display Celebrate both Halloween ments. and the arts by participating at the Art Factory, Winthrop Arts Winthrop Arts’ art studio, in Winthrop Arts’ Pallet-O-Ween. will also offer time in from Saturday, October 17 until after the Art Factory for businesses and organiHalloween. zations to send groups to create their artThe Art Factory is located at 11267 work. Winthrop Arts strictly adheres to all Winthrop Main St. in Riverview. Each pal- CDC and Hillsborough County COVID-19 let art piece will feature the sponsor’s logo guidelines, so masks and social distancor name. In addition to being on display ing are required. for several weeks, Winthrop Arts will Winthrop Arts has worked hard to be actively promote the sponsors on its web- innovative and creative during this difficult site and social media pages. time. Pallet-O-Ween is another example The community will be invited to take of the ways it is trying to bring art to the a tour of the pallets and cast their ‘votes’ community while raising awareness of the for their favorites. All proceeds from the organization and funding for its programevent will benefit Winthrop Arts and its ming. arts programming. Winthrop Arts was formed in Paul Kaman, vice president of the September 2015. It offers art classes for Winthrop Arts Board of Visionaries, said, children, teens and adults at the Art “Pallet-O-Ween is another effort to eduFactory. In addition, the Mobile Art cate the community to different mediums Factory, which provides free art classes to of art. We are reusing/recycling pallet as underserved youth in Southern and the basis for the Halloween art. This is a Eastern Hillsborough County, has been good example of Winthrop Arts demonoperating since February 2018. strating by example that art and using For more information, visit recycled items can be fun.” www.winthroparts.org or call 758-5161.
Staff Report
By Kathy L. Collins
Theme Park & Cruise Line Jobs All On Hold For Local Professional Dancer
Event Companies Take Big Hit As Events Go Virtual & Online
Hayley She had a gruHillman of Brandon eling schedule, but graduated from Hillman had her Hillsborough dream job, so she Baptist High didn’t mind it. Then School in 2018 the COVID-19 panand was the class demic hit. valedictorian. She Like most peostarted dancing at ple in the entertainBrandon School of ment and service Dance Arts industry, Hillman (BSDA) at the age was furloughed. of 2. “It’s very heartHayley Hillman of Brandon was hired to “I’ve been breaking,” Hillman dance at two theme parks in Orlando. She is dancing for 19 now furloughed indefinitely because of the said. “I miss my pandemic. years,” Hillman friends, but I miss said. “I graduated in May of 2018 and the magic the most. I loved dancing with started teaching dance at BSDA three the little kids that came to the parks.” days a week. In the fall of that year, I Hillman also was contracted with a auditioned at some theme parks in cruise line to be a dancer. That opportuOrlando and was hired by both, so I cut nity has since been put on hold due to my teaching at BSDA down to one day a the pandemic. week and then danced full-time between “I was supposed to leave this past the two parks.” July for a nine-month cruise contract, but Hillman wanted to work a few years that got postponed for a year,” Hillman right out of high school so she could said. “So, now I’m back to teaching a few save enough money to put herself days a week at BSDA and I’m also a through college. nanny for a local family here in Brandon.” Hillman still lived in Brandon, even Hillman received word a few weeks though she worked at two parks in ago that her furlough from the two theme Orlando. Her dedication to her jobs and parks will be indefinite. her passion for dance is what motivated “Since I’m able to teach, I still have her to wake up each day at 5 a.m. “I had some connection to dance,” Hillman said. to be at work in Orlando at 6:45 a.m., so “I also take classes at different studios to I would wake up at 5 a.m. and be on the stay active and keep up my technique. I road by 5:15 a.m.,” Hillman said. “On hope eventually to be called back to the Wednesdays I would get off work at 2:30 parks and I know it will be completely difp.m. and then drive straight to BSDA to ferent, but as long as I can dance and teach dance classes the rest of the create magic, I’m okay with whatever the night.” new normal will be.”
Attending events or dles the details and fundraisers is something that stress of it all while you many people miss since the enjoy the actual event pandemic hit. I know for and make lasting relamyself, I miss getting tionships with cusdressed up and attending tomers and other busievents that help support nesses. Our professionsome of my favorite local al staff caters to your charities. needs no matter how “Losing face-to-face large or small.” interaction with people was a Before the pandemgame changer for the event ic, Bradley and her industry,” said Sonya Bradley, team hosted 70 events owner of Simply Events. a year before COVID-19 “Surviving from there, I quickand some of her events ly learned that hosting events Sonya Bradley is the owner of took place at the Simply Events, which is a local Westfield Brandon mall. in person was not the thing event company that hosted to do during COVID because many events at the Westfield “After the pandemic hit, Brandon mall. Before the people just weren’t ready. we have less than 13 pandemic, Bradley and her So, I switched my business events on the books for team hosted 70 events a year over to doing promotions for 2020,” Bradley said. “No before COVID-19. small businesses now because small parties and we completely lost our mall businesses owners really are having a business because malls are struggling. tough time getting an additional footprint They are getting traffic back, but their for themselves in a positive way. We’ve marketing budgets have been slashed in been focusing on improving their online half or cut because the whole industry is brand.” different now.” Simply Events is more than just Bradley and her team hope that events, it’s about being a part of an active more local small businesses and local community focused on supporting local nonprofits will reach out to her to help businesses. “Events are for celebrating them grow or improve their online preslife and having fun while making memoence. “We specialize in event planning, ries, and we take that responsibility seripromotions, social media strategy and ously at Simply Events,” Bradley said. digital marketing and helping our local “Come be a part of our community that community,” Bradley said. “We would love supports, creates and introduces you to to connect and grow with you today. Let’s emerging brands and fun interactive get social and support local today!” events. Our goal is that after working with To learn more, visit www.simour team, you’ll be saying, ‘What event plyeventsfl.com or contact Bradley at can we plan next?’ Simply Events han727-674-1464.
Convalescent Plasma Donations Important For Those Who Qualify To Give
Virtual Faith Gets Creative As Local Churches Take Services Online
Beverly Miller is a due to the antibodies local piano teacher that moms produce who lives in Brandon. when they are pregHer family had a bout nant. The second is in with COVID-19 this patients who receive past July. “My son testsome type of blood ed positive for COVID product such as plasthe first week of July,” ma, which is where Miller said. “Soon after, convalescent plasma my husband started comes into the picshowing symptoms, ture. It’s a very big lost his sense of smell deal as it’s fatal in lots and had a low-grade of cases because you fever for one day. I end up with a situareally didn’t have any tion where you have symptoms other than pulmonary fibrosis. losing my sense of The lungs are unable Beverly Miller is a local piano teacher (earthdust41@gmail.com) to function. You can smell. Our daughter who lives in Brandon. Her family had no symptoms at have multi-symptoms had a bout with COVID-19 this all.” past July. Miller wanted to donate and organ failure. It’s convalescent plasma but was The family quarankind of like an autoimdenied by OneBlood because she tined themselves for mune cascade, where tested positive for TRALI the recommended 14 once you have this (transfusion-related acute lung injury). days to make sure and encounter somethey didn’t spread the virus. “My husthing that triggers it, it can progress band and I never got an actual COVID over a few days and you can die.” test,” Miller said. “Once the 14 days Miller was very disappointed that past, I went to donate blood to see if I she couldn’t be a convalescent plashad the COVID antibodies so I could ma donor because for everyone who donate convalescent plasma to help donates convalescent plasma, they others who have COVID get better.” are helping to save three to four lives OneBlood told Miller that her of people who are infected with blood tested positive for TRALI, which COVID-19. “My hope is that men who means transfusion-related acute lung had COVID and are reading my story injury. “We’ve known about TRALI will come forward and donate convasince the 90s,” said Dr. Elliot Cazes lescent plasma to help those who are of Tampa. “It’s one of those common battling COVID,” Miller said. things that no one knows about, but To check the FAQs and see if you we see it all the time in patients in qualify to donate, visit OneBlood at two situations. The first is postpartum https://bit.ly/3mpbBbh.
The pandemic services online, has been difficult virtual attendance on many businessseemed to spike. es and corporaMany church tions, but it also leaders felt their has taken its toll on congregations the faith community were growing by as well. According leaps and to the website Pew bounds, but if Forum (www.pewsomeone forum.org), “About ARISE Church in Brandon was able to pivot the watched 30 sechalf of U.S. adults onds of a way it does church within 48 hours once the pandemic hit by taking its services online. who typically church’s video, it attend religious services at least once a was considered a view. Views didn’t month have replaced in-person attenaccount for engaging the viewer. dance with virtual participation (at least ARISE Church stopped counting temporarily). Surveys show that the coroviews and started counting how many navirus outbreak will result in large-scale times people engage with its videos. changes in Americans’ religious service “What matters is how many people are habits in the future.” engaging with the videos we posted Typical American in-person services online,” Simpson said. “We started lookare designed to lead people in worship in ing at how many people were commentbig group auditoriums. Many churches ing, liking or sharing our videos. We starthad to change their approach on how ed to gear our online ministry towards they lead people into worship. those likes and comments.” “We were able to pivot the way we Simpson’s cinematic sermons paid do church in about 48 hours once the off because when ARISE Church went pandemic hit,” said Lead Pastor Brent back to in-person services, it saw some Simpson of ARISE Church in Brandon. new faces in its congregation. “We did “We went online, but we wanted to do it see some new folks join us after watching well. We started doing cinematic serour online services,” Simpson said. mons. We would go on sites or locations ARISE Church, recently named numto shoot my sermons. We shot some ber 56 out of the 100 Fastest Growing along the Hillsborough River, in downChurches in the county by Outreach town Tampa and some out in the woods. magazine, still has online services in I even shot one of my sermons with addition to its in-person services. some sheep. We started acting things To learn more about ARISE Church, out, but not in a cheesy way. We would located at 401 Pauls Dr. in Brandon, visit act out the story as I was talking.” www.myarisechurch.com. Services are Like most churches that took their held on Sunday at 9 and 11 a.m.
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Page 12
Volume 15, Issue 9
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Savannah Court Offers Way For Residents To Get A Hug While Maintaining Protocols
By Amy Schechter
As restaurants leaving a family member reopen, people start to in assisted living strugventure out and life gle with not being able somewhat normalizes to hold the hand of their after the beginning of the loved ones or give a coronavirus pandemic, long-awaited hug. Huff things are not the same realized, “They need for our most vulnerable that contact, just like populations, such as the they need air.” So, she residents at Savannah and her staff have creatCourt Assisted Living ed an innovative way for Facility of Brandon. For that to happen. Huff these people, it has been calls it the Hug Booth. It over 100 days since is a box, much like a many of them had seen telephone booth, that their friends and families can separate two indiface to face. viduals, yet it still allows Chyna Huff, execu- Savannah Court assisted living for a true embrace. facility recently installed a hug tive director of Using easy to clean booth for residents. Savannah Court, knew plastic barriers and this was not healthy: “It’s bad enough wearable, disposable gloves/shields, where the families cannot get in and residents can now safely embrace one see them. Humans aren’t made to sus- another, their families and their friends. tain that type of constant depression, Savannah Court of Brandon’s disconnect and loneliness. We had try efforts are a testament to the loving, to do things that will ease the situagracious senior care it offers the comtion.” munity. Currently, it provides traditional Savannah Court is an active assisted living in a variety of floor plans assisted living facility. Its monthly activi- as well as overnight respite care for ties included big field trips to places those individuals who may need help like the USF Botanical Gardens, but for a few days or weeks following a Huff had to revamp their offerings for surgery, for example. When the pansmaller, in-house groups. Bible study, demic passes, it hopes to again offer exercise classes, bingo and music are day services designed for caregivers regular activities, but Huff and her staff who may need eight hours once in a have added more events, like ice while or on a regular basis to fulfill oblicream socials and beauty salon days gations they would not be able to do that mimic the aspects of the residents’ while caring for their family member. routines that they can no longer enjoy. For more information or to take a It offers Zoom sessions with family virtual tour, call 603-7844 or visit members, recorded messages from www.slm.net/seniorfamilies and friends and even window living/fl/brandon/savannah-court-ofvisits where families, friends and resibrandon/. Personalized virtual tours are dents are safely separated yet able to also available for those who have speinteract. cific questions and want to hear resiStill, Huff realized something was dent interviews. Find it on Facebook at missing. There is nothing that can truly www.facebook.com/SavannahCourtBra replace the physical touch of another ndonAssistedLiving. Savannah Court person. So many children, spouses, of Brandon, ALF License #9353, is and residents who deal with the rollerlocated at 824 N. Parsons Ave. in coaster of emotions that comes with Brandon.
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September 2020
Page 13
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Champion City Church Holds Fourth Annual Backpack Drive For A Kid’s Place
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Remember the chased through the night before the first monetary donations by day of the new school church members as year? You picked out well as the outreach your favorite outfit and efforts in the communiplaced your new pair ty. “As pastors, we of shoes next to them. don’t want to just talk You may have stared about tithing,” said at them for a bit, and it Hall. “But, we want to Champion City Church held its fourth be a church that tithes, made you feel good. annual backpack drive to benefit For some students it foster children living at A Kid’s Place so 10 percent of gave them some coneverything that’s given Tampa Bay. fidence. This was the driving force behind to us at Champion City is given away Champion City Church’s backpack drive through our outreach called ‘Love The for A Kid’s Place Tampa Bay. 813.’ As a church, we give to the commu“We wanted them to go back to nity, world missions, help others plant school with the confidence that other stuchurches and assist other churches reach dents wouldn’t pick on them about their their communities.” shoes,” said Bruch Hall, lead pastor at Hall explained that the children at A Champion City Church. “We wanted them Kid’s place have already been impacted to have the peace of mind that they have in life and need advocates. “A Kid’s Place a new backpack that will last the school has already done so much to stand along year and it has some things in it that will these little champions and we want to do help them succeed this school year.” our part too,” said Hall. “Most of these A Kid’s Place, located in Brandon, children arrive at A Kid’s Place with all of provides a safe and loving home for fostheir earthly belongings in a Walmart ter children. Champion City Church’s suc- shopping bag, if they even have that. cessful backpack drive provided 60 back- They don’t have backpacks and they packs and 60 pairs of shoes for the chilmore than likely don’t have a good pair of dren living at A Kid’s Place. shoes. We wanted to do something about Hall said that the church has been that.” very moved by the work at A Kid’s Place. Champion City Church has a contin“They take care of the orphans and that’s uing vision of outreach for the community exactly what the book of James tells us to with several upcoming events, including a do,” said Hall. “The Bible tells us in food pantry to serve students that may James 1:27, ‘Pure and genuine religion in come from food-insecure homes, a the sight of God the Father means caring Thanksgiving dinner and a Christmas toy for orphans and widows in their distress drive. Visit www.MyChampCity.com. You and refusing to let the world corrupt you.’” can also follow on Facebook The backpacks and shoes were pur@MyChampCity & @Love_The813.
What Does an Unplanned Career Transition Mean for You?
by Joanna Springstead
And don’t forget about health The COVID-19 pandemic has unsettled the country’s employment insurance. If you lose your employer’s coverage, can you get picture and will continue to do so COBRA or negotiate an extended for a while. If you’ve been offered severance package? And if you an early retirement, how should depended on a group you respond? life insurance policy from Look at your situation your employer, do you holistically. For example, now need to consider what does retirement reprivate coverage? ally mean to you? Would Going through an unyou like to fully retire, or planned career transition would you prefer to work is challenging. Considerpart-time? If you would ing your options and makrather not work anymore, do you need to adjust ing appropriate moves your planned retirement may help you reduce lifestyle? some of the stress – and How about your income? position yourself to start JOANNA If you take early retirethe next phase of your SPRINGSTEAD ment, will you need to life. Financial Advisor start tapping into your Now booking appoint401(k) and IRA early? Should you ments via the phone/web conferadjust your investment mix? What ence. Call today to schedule an other sources of income will you introductory meeting . have available?
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Page 14
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Tide Dry Cleaners In Valrico Launches New Convienient Delivery Service
By Tatiana Ortiz
Tide Dry Tide also Cleaners is offers contact making life free drop-off easier for resiand pickup dents. Berry options with a and Sharon 24-hour drop Wright, who box, 24-hour own the locapickup and tions in Valrico drop-off and a and South kiosk that can Tampa, be utilized 24launched a hours a day. Tide Dry Cleaners Route Manager and Driver Ted There is also a new delivery Craft is part of the the company’s new delivery service out of valet lane for service. the Valrico store this month. drop-off and pickup, and wash and The service, which has been run- fold laundry is also available as team ning in South Tampa since earlier this members follow the requirements to summer, makes the well-known Tide protect themselves and guests. cleaning services more convenient According to Sharon, a team with for customers. more than 100 years of experience in “To provide the guest with conresearch developed the Tide venience and quality would be our Complete Care System. It creates goal of the new delivery service,” whiter, cleaner and fresher clothes, Sharon said. using a detergent that can only be According to Sharon, when cusfound at Tide Cleaners. tomers sign up for the service, they A reward program, included autoreceive a hook and a Tide Cleaners matically, allows customers to receive bag that can be placed outside their coupons and more with a point door. After confirmation via text the earned for every item brought in. night before, a driver comes to cus“All in all, as we continue to tomer’s homes to pick up items adapt to the times, we are happy to placed on the hook. help as much as we can,” Sharon Homes or businesses in the said. Valrico, Brandon and Riverview areas For more information, visit are serviced for delivery out of the https://tidecleaners.com/en-us. The Valrico location. Those who choose Valrico store is located at 1928 E. delivery can expect it to come twice a Bloomingdale Ave. and is open week for either drop-off or pickup. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-7 The day and time will depend on the p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. area. Call 662-4243 to learn more.
Volume 15, Issue 9
Find A Pro At Naffco Floors & Interiors
By Michelle Caceres
When homeowners made of, where they come decide to replace their from, it’s mind blowing,” he flooring, it can be a dauntsaid. “He can tell you the ing task. The advice of an square footage of every expert is key to helping box of flooring and because find the right flooring at the he’s been in the business right price, and at Naffco so long, if I have a question Floors & Interiors, every about something, I ask him design consultant is because he always has the trained to help homeownanswer.” ers achieve their goals. Johnson hopes to one Longtime Brandon day be as knowledgeable resident and salesperson as his mentor. Rufus Ashby has been in Naffco Co-Owner the flooring business for Michael Baker said the Thanks to a mentorship more than 42 years, transfer of knowledge from program, Naffco employees many of them as the guys like Rufus to the next like Rufus Ashby and Seth owner of his own flooring Johnson are poised to help generation of consultants is homeowners achieve their company. In that time, he key to helping the business design goals. became an expert in all evolve. “Our mentorship flooring options, from tile to hardwood to programs have been created to create carpeting, from many manufacturers. He tradesmen that will fuel our continued said that, recently, homeowners are shop- growth,” he said. ping for updated, luxury, waterproof vinyl Naffco Floors & Interiors, located at flooring. 1920 W. Brandon Blvd., is open “Waterproof vinyl flooring can be an Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and excellent option for growing families, for Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. More than just active families and for families with pets,” a flooring store, it also offers a full range Ashby said. “Spills, pet incidents, moisof affordable home improvement and ture, heavy foot traffic and abrasions pose remodeling services, including cabinetry, a constant threat to a home’s flooring and window treatments, countertops, kitchen these products are waterproof, stain and bathroom remodeling and area resistant, versatile and provide good rugs. durability for the cost.” “We make it easy for a homeowner Ashby is sharing his knowledge with to come into our showroom and see Seth Johnson, a new design consultant. their dream home realized,” said Baker. The 21-year-old is learning how to help Naffco Floors & Interiors has been a customers find the perfect floor for them mainstay in the community since 1937. after stints of training in the warehouse For more information or to request a and with flooring installation crews. free flooring estimate, visit www.naf“Rufus’ level of knowledge about fcofloorsandinteriors.com/brandon-fl or types of flooring materials, what they’re call 734-7446.
September 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 15
Local Musicians Share Talents At International Piano Guild Performance
Staff Report
Music learning about Showcase other cultures, hosted its especially their 13th annual accents and lanInternational guages. Piano Guild Faith is also last month. 12 years old, and More than 20 she is going into pianists from seventh grade and around the has played piano area particifor five years. She pated in the likes to draw, annual closed spend time with juried event, friends, watch including anime and play eight from video games. Music Showcase hosted its 13th annual International Piano Guild last month with eight students from Music Showcase, including Bryson Music One the state Moore, Catalina Van Bourgondien, Saanvi Chinthamaneni and Noah Hoyte. Showcase. level among Music with Catalina Van level among the Music The International Piano Guild Showcase participants, Bryson Moore Bourgondien for Showcase participants holds auditions around the world with got the top score. Moore is 13 years are Saanvi Chinthamaneni music professionals grading students first place in the old and has been playing the piano for district level. River and Noah on accuracy, continuity, phrasing, four years, which he enjoys playing for is a seventh grade Hoyte. Chinthamaneni will pedaling, dynamics, rhythm, tempo, friends and family. He is entering the student at be attending the fifth grade tone, interpretation, style and techeighth grade and excels in school as Mulrennan Middle at Lithia Springs nique. The audition, open for stua High Academic Honor Roll stuSchool. She has Elementary. She enjoys dents of all levels, is a yearly event dent. He is also a part of his school’s playing piano, drawing and at Music Showcase. Students have to been playing the chapter in the National Junior Honor piano since she singing. memorize and play scales and Society. Moore’s hobbies include was 5 years old Noah Hoyte is 12 years songs, sometimes as many as 10 online gaming with his friends, swimand loves all different kinds of music, old and has been playing piano for each. The guild’s purpose is to ming and trail riding. is active in church and Girl Scouts five years. Noah loves animals, drawencourage growth and enjoyment of Kai Edwards placed second and enjoys spending time with her ing and video games. Noah would like among the Music Showcase students the piano. Auditioning students family. Yebba is interested in teachto be a zoologist because he loves receive the prestige of becoming in the state level. He has participated ing and architecture. Nine-year-old animals. In third place in the district members of the guild for a year and in the National Piano Guild for four Van Bourgondien and has been playlevel for Music Showcase are Tyler report cards. Students can also years. He is in the seventh grade at ing piano for four years. She likes to Smith and Faith Hoyte. receive community service credit Seven Springs Middle School. Smith, 12 years old, has been through the public school system and perfect her songs and play them for For more about the International family members. She also enjoys playing piano for four years. He also academic accreditation on college Piano Guild program, please contact playing softball, swimming, reading recently started learning to play guitar. Debbie Evans or teacher Jean applications and resumes. and visiting Disney. He also enjoys playing hockey. During Hackley at 403-8634 or jean.hackAmong the Music Showcase stuComing in second in the district his home school studies, Smith loves dents, River Kyrie Eleison Yebba tied ley@yahoo.com.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
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In This Section
Brandon/Winthrop
SAVANNAH COURT HUGS ..............PG 18 BUDGET BLINDS .............................PG 20 NAFFCO FLOORING ........................PG 21 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 24
September 2020
Volume 15, Issue 9
SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 26
Ph: 657-2418
Rockstar Lobster Joining Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co.
Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. is thrilled to announce that Rockstar Lobster food truck has decided to permanently park its truck at its location on 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Rockstar Lobster’s hours of operation are Monday to Saturday, 12 Noon-9 p.m., and Sunday, 12 Noon-8 p.m.
Dancing For Donations Open To All
Dancing for Donations is a nonprofit organization with a mission to make dance affordable and available to all members of the community. Dancers of all abilities are welcome and encouraged to explore the different types of dance available to them. The studio can be found at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd. Visit www.dancing4donations.org or call 601-3009 for additional information.
Forever Young Aesthetics Coming To Valrico
The founder of Forever Young Aesthetics in South Tampa, Rick Young, CRNA, will be in Valrico on the first Thursday of every month. Young, a talented and trusted aesthetician, is a leader in the field who owes his reputation to a highly personalized and meticulous approach. Starting on Thursday, September 3, appointments
be reached on 5107357. Visit www.trerc.com or its Facebook page @tamparestorationequiprental.
will be available at Deliz Dental Studio on 2448 A recent Dancing for Donations recital Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Bloomingdale group. Valrico in the same Ave. in Valrico. plaza as Sprouts. More information can To schedule an appointment, call be found at 353-0023 or visit www.cyclebar.com/location/brandon, its foreveryoungtampa.com. Facebook page @CYCLEBARBrandon or by calling 990-7978. CycleBar Opening In Valrico CycleBar, the world’s premium indoor cycling brand, is coming to Valrico. The studio goes beyond a great cardio workout with premium amenities and a community of riders to motivate and inspire your fitness journey. Each CycleBar session is a 45-minute low-impact, highintensity cycling experience for all ages and body types. Classes are led by the industry’s best instructors and with various class formats you can diversify your workout to rock your ride any way you’d like. Energizing playlists and a concert environment accompanied by performance stats help you to achieve your personal best, ride after ride. The studio will be situated at 3335
Tampa Restoration Equipment Rental Is Here To Meet Your Needs
Tampa Restoration Equipment Rental is based in Valrico and is the place to go for your restoration equipment needs. You can rent just the equipment or they can supply a full restoration service. Products available include air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers and emergency generators. Restoration services for water mitigation from floods, burst pipes or other water intrusion are also offered. An additional service currently on offer is COVID-19 cleaning, using electrostatic misting. It is available 24 hours a day and can
Heath Wealth Management Welcomes New Licensed Administrative Assistant
Heath Wealth Management LLC is happy to announce the newest addition to the team, Will Heath, as the new licensed administrative assistant. Will joined the team after completing his Series 7 General Securities license and plans to pursue his CFP designation while working and learning alongside Elijah Heath. Will started his higher education at Florida Gulf Coast University before transferring to the University of South Florida, where he graduated in the Fall of 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in business management. Heath Wealth Management, a statewide leader in financial planning, is led by Elijah, who has over 20 years of experience as a financial professional. Heath Wealth Management invests time into understanding what is important to you and what you would like to accomplish finan-
Continued on Next Page
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Business Column Continued...................
By Jenny Bennett
cially over your lifetime. For appointments and additional information, visit HeathWealth.com, visit on Facebook @HeathWealthMgmt or call 556-7171.
Lithia Storage Opening Soon
encourage, support and serve one another.” One way it supports the community is by offering a military discount and free use of the company truck for local charitable organizations and by utilizing the area on the rear of the truck to thank and show appreciation to the military service members and frontline workers that live among us. For more information, visit lithiastorage.com or call 502-6755.
Lithia Storage, the new storage facility built on Lithia Springs Rd. alongside Lithia Pinecrest Rd., will be opening soon. The facility offers over 80,000 Owner Sean Klotz using square feet of climate-con- TrackMan to practice and 1 Stop Golf Shop Opens monitor his swing. trolled and non-climateBeing named 1 Stop Golf controlled storage space as well as outShop, the store really is the one stop side covered and non-covered parking for needed to fulfill all your golfing requirements. Recently opened at 3321 Lithia boats and RVs. An on-site manager will reside on the grounds and free use of its Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico in the same plaza as Sprouts and JF Kicks, the new owncompany truck will be available when moving items into the facility. Owner ers, Jim Allsbrook and Sean Klotz, are Craig Stern is excited to open. “While excited to share their knowledge and love leasing storage units and of golf with all selling merchandise is our those that stop by. business, we want our Along with retail unmatched customer servmerchandise, 1 ice with primary focus on Stop Golf Shop also offers golf lesour customers’ needs to distinctly define us and set sons with professional us apart. The difference is not in what we do, but instruction, rather how we do it,” he club fitting and Craig Stern, owner of Lithia said. “As we aim to please repair and lots of Storage, and his family. our customers, we also friendly and informaim to be of benefit to our local communi- ative advice. ty by supporting, participating and providCurrently, 1 Stop Golf Shop is open ing resources to the community around Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., us in various capacities. We believe life is Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday best lived when we work together, from 1-6 p.m.More information can be
found at www.1stopgolfshopfl.com, its Facebook page @1StopGolfShop or by calling 655-0355.
Tower Radiology And openDoctor Partner For Online Scheduling
Scheduling an appointment at Tower Radiology just got easier with a new online scheduling experience through the openDoctor platform. Online scheduling is easy, fast and convenient for patients to set an appointment. The new online feature is available 24/7 and provides appointment confirmation and paperless preregistration. This exciting new tool enhances the patient experience. If you would like to enroll, please contact Christie McCarty at 253-2721 ext.1950 or contact direct by email csmccarty@TowerRadiologyCenters.com.
Volume 15, Issue 9
es by seeking professional groom tech training for our team,” said Co-Owner Angie Pickren. Canine Cabana is a premium pet care facility offering overnight accommodations, fun and engaging daycare for all dogs and positive proven training. Canine Cabana’s mission is to provide a safe, active and healthy recreational environment that meets canines’ physical and behavioral needs while improving the quality of life for both the dogs and the owners who love them. Canine Cabana is located at 9708 Carr Rd. in Riverview. Please contact Angie Pickren at 6729663 or email her at angie@caninecabana.biz.
Motion ChiroTherapy Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary
Dr. Robert Lutz and his team at Motion ChiroTherapy would like to thank the community for all Canine Cabana Takes their support over the Dog Baths To last two years. Dr. Lutz Exceptional Level said, “At Motion Canine Cabana recogChiroTherapy, we undernized one of its team memstand that each person bers, Gabby Velosa, for is unique, and that’s why becoming a certified groom we are dedicated to protechnician. The techniques viding progressive, evilearned set a foundation of dence-based care with skills based on the American individualized treatment Kennel Club’s breed stanplans. At Motion dards. Learning safe hanChiroTherapy, we help dling practices, canine psyyou by not only treating chology and recognizing the symptoms, but findGabby Velosa with her new skin and coat health coning the solution to what groom technician certificate. cerns are fundamental to is causing them.” completing this certification as well. “We Ailments that it can help with include are always looking for ways to improve headaches, neck pain, joint pain, sciatica the services that we offer to continue to and others. Motion Chirotherapy is locatprovide an exceptional level of care. We ed at 16765 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia in recognized that we could dramatically the Shops of Fishhawk plaza. 793-7791 improve the quality of our bathing servicor visit www.motionchirotherapy.com.
September 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
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Volume 15, Issue 9
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Budget Blinds Offers Great Window Services And Keeps Things Clean And Distanced
Staff Report
Mike and Adriane This zero contact Wonderlin have now process includes: owned the Social distancing local Budget of 6 feet minimum. Blinds franchises of All products Brandon and Greater packed in boxes and Tampa for two years. or cardboard will be In January, they unpacked outside. expanded by purchasIncreased sanitaing the Lakeland territion by all design conAdriane and Mike Wonderlin have tory. They also plan sultants and installers owned the local Budget on opening a new before and after Blinds franchises of Brandon and Greater Tampa for two years. showroom in Wesley every call, including Chapel this fall at the KRATE container hand washing and disinfecting of all tools. park. Every design consultant entering The Budget Blinds showroom that your home wears shoe coverings or will serves Brandon, Lakeland, Apollo Beach remove their shoes. and the surrounding areas is located at “Our niche in the market is some10437 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview. The where between a big box store and callWonderlins have a second showroom in ing a decorator,” said Adriane. “Our Tampa, serving the North Tampa area. It design consultants don’t just go out and offers a complete line of window covergive a quote, they actually help design.” ings, be it blinds, shutters, shades, pan“You can buy the same exact line at els, valances or drapes. Home Depot, but you won’t get the same “The most important thing is that we warranty,” Mike explained, noting that have a style and service for every budgmany of Budget Blinds’ warranties are et,” Adriane said. both lifetime and ‘no questions asked’— While customers are always welfor any reason, the product will be come to visit either showroom, Mike said replaced. that many clients never set foot in the Budget Blinds, the Wonderlins said, door. A design consultant will come to is also an area leader in smart devices your home with many samples for a com- and offers many products that are autoplimentary design consultation to help mated, set on timers and interact with you choose the perfect products for your smartphones or Alexa. needs. Budget Blinds’ showroom hours are To help customers quickly and safely, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Budget Blinds implemented a zero conSaturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit budgettact process that minimizes all person-toblinds.com/brandon. Call 445-7121 or person contact during in-home service email btumelty@budgetblinds.com or calls. 522-0619.
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September 2020
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Eagle Scout Builds New Office Space For Ever-Growing ECHO
By Kye Saunders
Emergency Help and Scout, Boy Scouts like Care Organization, also Bradford must complete a known as ECHO, has service project that directreceived help from local ly contributes their comEagle Scout Jackson munity. Bradford to transform According to the what once was an underEagle Scout Service utilized kid’s play space Project workbook, the into a much more accomproject can be anything. modating office for poten“It might be a constructial ECHO employees. tion, conservation, or ECHO’s primary remodeling project, or it location off Parsons Ave. could be the presentation Eagle Scout Jackson Bradford is home to one of of an event with a worthrecently donated his time to Brandon’s most visited help expand the office space at while purpose,” it states. ECHO’s Brandon office. food banks. What once was an With more than 180,000 pounds of abandoned play space for children of food distributed and over 15,521 memECHO’s client base is now, with help from bers of our community served, according Bradford, a secluded area for future its website www.echofl.org, what keeps ECHO staff members to spread out and the ball rolling are the people behind the get to work. movement. When asked about what this space These people, comprised of an imimeans for ECHO, staff member Myriam tate staff and a large volunteer base, are Lugo responded, “We are so grateful for in desperate need for office space. the work that Jackson has done for us. That’s when Bradford stepped in to This space will help us continue to grow step up. as we expand our team with another perAs a member of the Boy Scouts mit position.” Troop 79 which meets at Immanuel If you or someone in your family are Lutheran Church, Bradford has set his a member of the Boy Scouts and would sights high on achieving the Scouts’ high- like to volunteer your time like Bradford at est rank: the Eagle Award. ECHO, please contact Myriam Lugo at Becoming an Eagle Scout takes hard myriam@echofl.org. work, compassion and vision. There are always larger scale volunThe requirements for earning the teer opportunities perfect for an Eagle Eagle Award not only include Eagle Scout Scout not just at ECHO’s main location merit badges as well as leadership chalbut at ECHO Boutique and its Riverview lenges, but the toughest test of all is the campus as well. Eagle Scout Service Project. Find ECHO of Brandon on Facebook In order to earn the status of Eagle or visit www.echofl.org.
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Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed by first-time customers for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 10/22/2020.
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Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, laundry, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 10/22/2020.
Southshore Insurance Professionals Protection You Can Trust
Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 10/22/2020.
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Volume 15, Issue 9
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
more than 100,000 free eye screenings and 20,000 free prescription glasses to children.
l, New a r u M s n Market ildre ng tt New h i r C e e r t e n z Coming To Park u a l l o G V O Benne H y n C Square n e E J , y ed b er.com Market Art Monkey Compil yobserv jbennet
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Glazer Vision Foundation Unveils Glasses For All Children Mural
The Glazer Vision Foundation, Armature Works and Pep Rally Inc. have partnered in the creation of a new mural at Armature Works within the Heights District. The mural, located on the northern end of the property, showcases the Glazer Vision Foundation’s mission of providing ‘Glasses For All Children’ and honors the legacy of the late Malcolm Glazer, who attributed his first pair of prescription glasses to an enhanced ability to learn and succeed. The community can join the cause through the foundation’s #OneShareOnePair initiative. By sharing a photo of the mural, a selfie with the mural or a selfie wearing any type of glasses; tagging @glazervisionfdn; and using the hashtag #OneShareOnePair, the Glazer Vision Foundation will provide a child with a free eye exam and glasses. To date, the foundation has provided
Emporium located at 16132 Churchview Dr. in the Park Square neighborhood of FishHawk ranch, in collaboration with Pish Posh, is pleased to announce that they will be hosting a market on the second Saturday of every month commencing on September 12 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Approximately 20 vendors featuring local artists and makers are expected.
Angel Foundation FL Donations For Yard Sale
The Angel Foundation of Florida’s Junior Angels are having a yard sale at ARISE Church in Brandon on Saturday, September 26 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 100 percent of the proceeds will go towards the Angel Foundation FL helping individuals and families who have experienced a life-threatening illness or catastrophic event.
Second Book In Local Author’s Fantasy Series Published
Just in time for your end of summer
reading pleasure or back-to-school lists, Riverview resident T. L. Stride has published Spirit Path. It is the second installment of his young adult fantasy series, Shaman Tales – The Chronicles of Little Hawk. The new book picks up the tale where the first book, Shaman Tales – The Chronicles of Little Hawk: So Much At Stake, left off. In celebration of the release of Spirit Path, you can read book one, So Much At Stake, for free through the end of October at https://tlstride.wixsite.com/tlstridestories. The books are also available from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
HCC To Launch Free Job Skills Training Program
Hillsborough Community College is launching a free training program in partnership with Verizon to boost in-demand job skills and workplace connection. The program will have multiple offerings through the fall of 2022, and the first cohort will begin on Monday, September 14 and run through Saturday, October 31. The innovative program will offer flexible learning formats, build industry experience and develop the most sought-after aptitudes needed for in-demand fields. Topics for the program include communication, problemsolving, collaboration, leadership, networking and more. Individuals who complete the training will be paired with a mentor, job shadow and/or be placed in an internship with local companies. Limited need-based scholarships are available for unpaid intern placements. For more information and registration,
visit hccfl.edu/academics/lets-get-2-work.
ECHO Brandon Looking For Volunteers
ECHO was founded in 1987 with the mission to assist residents of Hillsborough County in crisis with emergency food and clothing, offering life-stabilizing programs and resources. It was created so churches and others could send people in need to one central location. ECHO has been extremely successful in fulfilling its mission, but during this time of increased need due to COVID-19, it has found itself experiencing a reduction in volunteers as many of its older volunteers choose to isolate for their own protection. If you would like to assist ECHO by volunteering, please visit www.echofl.org or call 685-0935 to register.
Summerfield Women’s Golf League
The Summerfield Women’s Golf Association will begin their annual league play on Tuesday, October 6. New members are welcome to join, a club membership is not required. Membership is open to all women 18 years and older of amateur standing. The purpose of the league is to further the game of golf by women, foster good sportsmanship and create an interest in improving the average golfer’s game. The league consists of players at all skill levels. Games are played on Tuesday mornings at 7:30 a.m. at the Summerfield Crossings Golf Club on 13050 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview. If you are interested in joining or would like additional information, call Sandy at 671-1927.
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September 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Greater Seffner Area Chamber Of Commerce Hosted Its Annual New Teacher Virtual Event By Tatiana Ortiz For more than five Caspers years, the Greater Company McDonald’s Seffner Area Chamber was the Head of the of Commerce has parClass Sponsor in ticipated in its annual which it supplied the new teacher event, Seffner Elementary which helps support School teachers with the success of its goody bags with items teachers and stusuch as coupons for a Teachers and staff at Seffner dents. It gives new free McCafe hot or Elementary School enjoying their hot teachers information cold beverage and breakfast donated by Caspers about local businessmuch more. The Company McDonald’s. es that can assist with meetteachers and staff also ing their needs. To add, it also received breakfast too. As provides prizes and welcome active members in the comgifts to new teachers as well munity and chamber of comas introducing them to the merce’s, Caspers Company members of the chamber to admires teachers and are encourage community committed to be an asset to engagement. help them achieve their Greater Seffner Area Chamber of goals. Commerce’s Vice President, Charles Capers Company McDonald’s Vice Bates mentions the purpose of its annual President Bob Conigliaro shared how it event. felt to be Head of the Class sponsor. “We want to show appreciation for all “As a huge supporter of everything the hard work our teachers do as well as educated related since our inception in thanking them for stepping up to the chal- 1958 and the founding sponsor of the lenges and obstacles that came along Hillsborough County Teacher of the Year with COVID-19,” Bates said. program, it was a natural fit,” Conigliaro On September 10, a total of six said. schools partook in the annual event that “Overall, we are fortunate to be went virtual, which included Seffner included in the Greater Seffner Area Elementary School, Limona Elementary Chamber of Commerce’s welcome event School, Mango Elementary School and annually,” Seffner Elementary School’s more just to name of few. Each teacher Assistant Principal of Elementary received a prize and many new teachers Instruction, Kristine Claffie said. won raffle prizes. All of these six schools For more information, visit also received two bags of school supplies http://seffnerchamber.com. Email: each. The Kiwanis Club of Greater info@seffnerchamber.com. Call 627Brandon was the Honor Roll sponsor. 8686.
$100 OFF!
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Volume 15, Issue 9
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Krazy Kup Reopens Upstairs Entertainment Area For Friday And Saturday Night Events
Art Created By Students In The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory Is On Display At Krazy Kup
Krazy Kup, an munity friendly. old-world authentic During the day, coffee house located Krazy Kup is a wonat 101 E. J. Arden derful coffee house Mays Blvd. in historic where family and Plant City, is pleased friends can gather to reopen its upstairs and enjoy a delientertainment area. cious beverage or Krazy Kup has hosttreat. On Friday and ed some stellar acts, Saturday nights, including GRAMMY Krazy Kup is transAward winners and formed into a fun Krazy Kup, a great authentic coffee global artists. Krazy house located in historic downtown gathering spot. Plant City, is a fantastic venue for all Kup is owned and On the first types of family-friendly entertainment, Friday and Saturday operated by Frank from musicians like James Hurlburt and Wenda Trunzo. and bands to retro movies and more. nights of each When businessmonth, Krazy Kup es closed this spring, Krazy hosts faith-based bands Kup was able to open via and a Bluegrass Jam. On an innovative walk-up winthe second weekend, they dow in its courtyard. “The host Trivia Night and Open previous owner had used it Mic Night. On the third as a drive-through. We did not want weekend of the month, there is Retro that. We petitioned the city to open Movie Night and ‘Whose Line Is It the area as a courtyard,” said Frank. Anyway?’. On the fourth weekend, it “We had never gotten around to take will host a professional bluegrass full advantage of the area until it band and then Comedy Night. When became a lifesaver. Now we have an there is a fifth Friday or Saturday, a art filled area and the lifesaver is gor- special event will be planned. geous. The courtyard saved us from All of the events are familyhaving to close,” added Frank. friendly and rated G or PG. In addiThe courtyard has indeed tion, space is limited to ensure propbecome a great place to not only er distancing and compliance with order but to sit in comfort outside. “It local, state and federal mandates is a great place to relax. It is narrow regarding COVID-19. enough that you do not get too much Krazy Kup is open Tuesday sun,” said Frank. through Thursday from 7:33 a.m. to 6 Now, with many businesses p.m., Friday from 7:33 a.m. to 8:33 reopening in different ways, Frank p.m. and Saturday from 8:33 a.m. to and Wenda have revamped the oper- 8:33 p.m. ating hours and entertainment schedFor more information, please visit ule to make it more family and comwww.krazykup.com.
The students in Art Factory runs in the Winthrop Arts conjunction with Mobile Art Factory in Hispanic Services Plant City have, along Council’s La Red with Lead Art de Padres Activos Instructor Bryant (Network of Active Martinez, created two Parents), a unique large art pieces coninitiative aimed at sisting of several canhelping Latino parvas paintings. The artents ensure the work is on display at educational sucKrazy Kup, located at cess of their chil101 E. J. Arden Mays dren now and Blvd. in historic down- Frank Trunzo (left), owner of Krazy Kup in throughout life. town Plant City. Annabel Plant City, graciously offered to provide a space so that the artwork of children in the Saavedra is the Krazy Kup is Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory could owned and operated community coordishowcase their artwork. The artwork was by Frank and Wenda created by the students and art instructor, nator for Hispanic Bryant Martinez (right). Trunzo. The paintings Services Council are in the newly renovated Krazy Kup in Plant City. Saavedra said of the Mobile courtyard. The two pieces are a series of Art Factory program and the art on disself-portraits of the children in the proplay, “The community embraces the art gram. Each one is unique and beautiful. as expression. In engaging in art, children Frank said, “The courtyard and art show their creativity and have an outlet to wall are a platform to allow artistic minds portray their ideas. In doing so with others to showcase their talents. It is extremely who share their interests, [it] helps develimportant. Fortunately, we have a great op friendships and allows children to location.” He added, “In general, with socially flourish. Parents benefit from this artistic people, you cannot exploit them. It formation of social circles and bonds as is one of their motivations to show their well. This children-to-parent effect is how work in public.” communities build trust and inclusion The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory among members. The Red de Padres is a grant-funded outreach program that program hopes that the use of art will provides free art instruction to underhelp the Hispanic circle thrive and develserved children living in communities op.” such as Plant City. Funders of the proWinthrop Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit gram include the Arts Council of that also offers art classes for students, Hillsborough County and Suncoast Credit teens and adults at their art education Union. studio known as the Art Factory, located Winthrop Arts has been partnering at 11267 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview. with Hispanic Services Council since For more information, please visit February 2018. The Winthrop Arts Mobile www.winthroparts.org.
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September 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 25
Inna’s Alterations Uses Circus Costume Experience To Ensure The Perfect Fit
Healthcare Solutions Team Helps Choose The Best Possible Health Insurance Plans
Whether you are ding or bridesmaid in need of a wardrobe dress? Shirts or pants repair or a custom garnot fitting well? ment, Inna Lilov, owner Uniform is uncomfortof Inna’s Alterations ably snug or large? and Repair, possesses Come by the store unsurpassed talent. and it will fix it. Now with over 60 Recently, Inna’s years of experience, Alterations has begun Lilov began her work making custom leowhen her family was tards for gymnastics part of the Moscow and dance. It can work Circus, and she continwith you on a design ued her efforts when and include embellshe traveled the world Inna Lilov and Vlasta Weimann of ishments like rhineInna's Alterations and Repair. with the Ringling stones on a notoriBrothers. During her time in the circus, ously difficult fabric. It will have you lookshe designed and constructed her own ing your best so you are ready to comcostumes and her family’s. Now, she pete, go to work, have a night on the decorates her store with pictures from town or celebrate a special occasion. her time in the circus where she perLilov and staff also want to give formed dangerous stunts, like walking back to the community by sewing washthe tightrope and working with bears, able, reusable masks for both children lions and horses, all while looking glamand adults. They offer custom patterns orous in her custom pieces. and will ship, but your best option is to She and her staff, Vlasta Weimann come by the shop because they also and Natalia Vertuozova, offer an array of have an array of designer dresses, outalteration services for men and women. fits and accessories in all sizes priced Her customers come back because of well below department store prices. the quality of their work. One reviewer, For more information, find it on Lauren Cohagen, notes, “Inna is great! Facebook at www.facebook.com/innaalMy mother ha[d] always gone to her if teration/ or email she needed something altered, so I went innasalterations@gmail.com. Inna’s myself when my prom dress needed Alterations and Repair is open Tuesdaymajor work. My dress was too big and Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 too fluffy, but Inna carefully listened to all a.m.-3 p.m. It is closed on the last my concerns and made sure she altered Saturday of the month. For information, it to fit like a glove! My dress was even call 651-4416. Inna’s Alterations is locatmore beautiful thanks to her.” ed at 1548 Bloomingdale Ave. E., Ste. In need of an alteration for a wed1514 in Valrico.
Choosing a plans. health insurance “Even if you are plan can be complialready covered by cated. Those in the a group plan by market for insuryour employer, we ance must have an can still run an understanding of analysis to see if terminology such there is a less as HMO, POS, expensive plan for EPO and PPO and Healthcare Solutions Team finds the best you,” he said. “Our be able to comclients are surpossible health insurance plans for its clients. pare plans that prised at how much aren’t created equally. we can save them.” Ken Bardales, owner of Healthcare Open enrollment for the ACA-comSolutions Team, said he can make the pliant health insurance coverage for process simpler. He and his team help 2021 begins on Sunday, November 1 explore all healthcare possibilities to and will run through Tuesday, December ensure clients receive the best coverage 15. Some people may qualify for enrollat the best price. ment earlier. Obamacare plans may not Bardales opened Healthcare always be the best value. “We compare Solutions Team, located at 1040 E. them with private sector plans to find the Brandon Blvd., in 2018 but had been one that right for you,” he said. working in the industry for almost 10 Bardales commented that individuyears. Business has been thriving. His als who make more than $100,000 in team has rapidly expanded to more than income annually and don’t qualify for 30 employees working with clients in government assistance on the marketmore than 40 states. “We’ve been so place find that in most circumstances a busy I had to hire another assistant,” he private insurance plan is more costsaid. “It’s a good problem to have.” effective. They’re so busy because they are “We have a plan for everyone,” he good at what they do, which is finding said. “Whether you are looking for better the best coverage for each client and coverage, are recently uninsured or its their situation. your first time purchasing health insur“We’re not all the same when it ance, we will help you find a premium, comes to our health insurance needs,” affordable plan,” he said. he said. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all Healthcare Solutions Team is open approach.” Healthcare Solutions Team Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. interviews each client and assesses key To schedule an appointment, visit data, including family size and health www.healthcaresolutionsteamstatus, to qualify them for available brandon.com or call 689-8800.
Amy Schechter
By Michelle Caceres
Page 26
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 9
Sports Connection Photos courtesy of the Chris Moulin
657-2418
www.ospreyobserver.com
By Nick Nahas
Local Tennis Sisters Succeed And Become Teammates At James Madison University same team as her.” Two FishHawk sisters, Hope Hope always knew that and Kylie Moulin, that trained in she wanted to go to an out-oftennis at the Brandon Sports and state school because she has Aquatic Center (BSAC) are lived in Florida her whole life going to be teammates at James and she wanted to experience Madison University (JMU). something different. When she Alex Golub, co-owner of visited JMU, she knew immediGolub Tennis that works out of ately that it would be the right BSAC, has been a big influence fit. Her ultimate goal in tennis is on the girls as their coach for to compete in the NCAA many years. Golub thinks that Tournament for JMU. James the Moulin sisters’ work ethic, Madison won its conference along with their talent, makes Hope Moulin uses her backhand Kylie Moulin (left) celebrates with Kylie Moulin is a redshirt junior at tournament in 2018, and the them successful tennis players. shot. her sister, Hope Moulin, after she James Madison University. team was not able to defend won second place at the Bobby Hope trains five days a week at tennis careers has been Curtis Junior State Championship. verbally committed to their title this past year due to COVIDBSAC and competes in United States rewarding.” JMU. The sisters have trained together 19. Tennis Association (USTA) tournaments Kylie, a redshirt junior at JMU, for most of their lives, starting tennis at 5 Kylie’s first season at JMU was halton the weekends. She said that training recently transferred to the school after and 7 years old, respectively. When Hope ed in mid-March due to COVID-19. Her at BSAC with Coach Golub for 11 years spending her first two seasons at was 16, she came in second place in the goal is to help bring JMU another conhas helped shape her as a tennis player. Alabama. The move was the right fit for Bobby Curtis Junior State Championship, ference championship if they are able to Kylie said that training at BSAC helped her after recovering from injuries. The forthe biggest tournament in Florida with 64 play. She is excited to become teamprepare her for the physicality of college mer assistant coach in Alabama that she competitors. She is currently ranked secmates with her sister after watching her athletics. enjoyed playing for is now the head ond in the state at 18. Kylie encouraged grow in the sport for years. “They both work hard and are coach at JMU. She played her freshman her sister to join her in college. “It was really awesome to watch her extremely dedicated to the sport,” said season on the Newsome tennis team that “We have trained together my whole fall in love with the sport like I did and Golub. “I have been coaching them a made it all the way to the state tournalife,” said Hope. “I honestly couldn’t imagreally be able to see her grow and long time, and seeing them grow over ment. ine going somewhere and her not being improve and be able to reach the level that long period of time and watching Younger sister Hope is currently a there with me—it means a lot to be on the that I was able to reach,” she said. them have success and advance their senior at Newsome High School and is
September 2020
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Be An Informed Voter, Know Where And How To Vote So That Every Vote Counts
By Kathy L. Collins
Voting is a right and not a privilege. In order to exercise this right, every voter in Hillsborough County must be informed and must know where to vote and how to do it. In Hillsborough County, there are three ways to exercise your right to vote: Vote By Mail, Early Voting and Election Day Voting. In order to vote in the general election, set for Tuesday, November 3, you must be registered by Monday, October 5. When you register, you are asked to select a party. The parties are Republican, Democrat or No Party Affiliation. You can also register as a member of a minor political party such as the Green Party of Florida. In a general election, your ballot, or those you vote for, is based upon where you reside. In other words, you vote for officials who represent your area. This year, everyone votes for the office of the president. There are no statewide elections this year as neither U.S. senator who represents Florida is up for election. There are countywide elections, including the office of the Hillsborough County state attorney. You can view a sample ballots for the general election by visiting www.votehillsborough.org. VOTE BY MAIL Vote By Mail is the most convenient method. You do not need an excuse to choose this option. If you request this method, you will receive your ballot in the mail as early as Thursday, September 24. The deadline to request your Vote By Mail ballot is Saturday, October 24. Using this method allows you to take your time making your voting decision. The Vote By Mail ballot must be received by the Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections Office by 7 p.m. on Election Day. You can mail it or drop it off in person at one of their offices or at an Early Voting site. In order to avoid any delays that may be experienced with the mail and to make voting as easy as possible, the supervisor of elections offers curbside drop-off this year. You must be mindful of the deadlines in order to use this method. You can request your Vote By Mail ballot and track its delivery by visiting www.votehillsbor-
ough.org. “During the primary election, we had curbside Vote By Mail drop-off at each of our 24 Early Voting sites and it was very popular. We expect even more voters to choose this convenient way of voting in the general election. Voters really liked being able to get their ballots at home and drop them off in person without leaving their car,” said Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer. “The office plans to have drop-off tents at its four offices seven days a week, starting Friday, September 25, and will expand to the 24 drop-off sites during Early Voting, from Monday, October 19 through Sunday, November 1,” added Latimer. EARLY VOTING Early Voting will take place from Monday, October 19 through Sunday, November 1 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early Voting is just like Election Day Voting. You must bring one or two forms of identification with your photo and signature on it. Acceptable forms of identification include a Florida driver’s license, state-issued identification, U.S. passport, student ID, public assistance ID and more. During Early Voting, you can go to any of the 24 sites designated as an Early Voting site. Conversely, on Election Day, you must vote at the precinct designated on your voter registration. ELECTION DAY VOTING Polling places or precincts, noted on your voter registration card, are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. This year, the general election day is Tuesday, November 3. You can bring your sample ballot with you and use it while you vote. Latimer said, “We got a lot of positive feedback from our voters and poll workers on the health and safety of in-person voting. Voters appreciated the way we set up our polling places so that everyone could be socially distanced, our poll workers were wearing masks and keeping things clean and we were happy to see that nearly all of our voters wore masks too.” Whichever method you choose, remember that your vote counts. For more information, please visit www.votehillsborough.org.
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Volume 15, Issue 9