Osprey Observer Brandon November 2020

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November 2020 Volume 15, Issue 11 Ph: 657-2418 1 8

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C O M M U N I T Y

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Forgotten Angels Raffles Off Motorcycle To Provide Support For Aged Out Foster Youths

Feeding Tampa Bay Hosts Mega Pantries In Area Including HCC Brandon

Cindy Tilley, presivived by panhandling dent/founder of and sleeping in the Forgotten Angels of park. FAF provides a Florida (FAF), knows light at the end of the firsthand the special foster care tunnel. birthday present that Youths are foster youths receive on referred by friends, their 18th birthdays. associated organizaStatistics reveal that tions and homes 30,000 youths age out refusing to keep them of the foster care sysafter they age out of tem annually and are the system. Although ushered through a onemainly from way door that often Hillsborough and leads to homelessness, Pinellas Counties, lacking necessary life other youths residing skills and opportunities at FAF come from as to succeed. far away as Tilley, once in foster California. There are care herself, felt led to few programs like found FAF in 2015 as a Forgotten Angels Congressman Ross Spano recently 501(c)(3) nonprofit. She spent time at the Forgotten Angels of and Tilley would like said, “Forgotten Angels to become more Florida in Brandon. is different in that we care for every single established throughout the country. aspect of our residents’ successful future.

Committed friends and supporters We provide employment opportunities, can donate food, clothes, furniture and education and enrichment. Most imporother items. Although COVID-19 has tantly, we love, respect and care for them eliminated many fundraising plans, donaas if they are our own children, not a case tions can be hosted on Facebook. number or a dollar amount.”

Weems Motor Co. For those aging out of foster care, (weemsmotorco.com/raffle) is offering a tiny homes in Brandon are provided to raffle to win a motorcycle, and in 2021 an encourage independence, a sense of actual brick-and-mortar home valued at self-worth, responsibility, self-esteem and $350,000 will be raffled off. some privacy. An assessment is perCurrently only housing boys, locating formed on arrival to determine medical a property and/or home for girls is on the concerns, education level, legal issues horizon. and former agencies to provide appropriTilley explained, “These kids need ate assistance. someone there for them who underTilley said residents are at various stands their struggles. They deserve so levels of independence. While some can much more than they have been given in cook and clean, one youth said he didn’t ways of love and support.” know how to tell time until he was 17. He For more information or ways to had so few life skills that when released donate or volunteer, visit http://forgottefrom foster care on his birthday, he surnangelsflorida.org.

The recent recipes that support COVID-19 pandemic grocery distribution, has weakened our additional food availlocal economy and ability and resources this has caused to help bring comfort many people from in these our community to challenges times become unemand any changes in ployed. Feeding scheduling that may Tampa Bay (FTB) occur,” Oliviero said. has been at the fore“We have stood side front of feeding those by side with those Feeding Tampa Bay’s goal is to have who are food insethat we serve all Tampa Bay hunger-free by 2025. cure in the Tampa along, but now more Bay community even before the pandem- than ever we are committed to connect in ic hit and it has continued to help those in a more meaningful way as we all adjust need since then. to what the pandemic has created as our The goal is to have Tampa Bay new normal.” hunger-free by 2025. One way the group To learn more, visit www.feedingtamis achieving this goal is by hosting Mega pabay.org. FTB hosts a Mega Pantry in Pantries in the Tampa Bay area.

Brandon on Thursdays from 4-6:30 p.m.

“While the reopening of our state is at HCC Brandon at 10451 Nancy Watkins on the horizon, the effects of COVID-19 Dr. in the parking lot next to softball field are far from over,” said FTB’s external on E. Columbus Dr. affairs officer, Shannon Hannon Oliviero.

“This crisis has nearly doubled the unemployment rate in Florida and placed over 1.7 million food insecure individuals in our care. To meet this increased need for food assistance, we have created Mega Pantry distributions.”

Mega Pantries are equipped to serve over 3,500 families at a time with 175,000 pounds of food, which is 22 times larger than their typical Mobile Pantry distributions.

“Due to distributing nearly 60 million meals since the pandemic began, Feeding Tampa Bay has now expanded our Mega Pantry program from six drivethrough locations to 10 to better serve those who continue to struggle with food insecurity,” Oliviero said. “With that in mind, the team at FTB has launched and is testing a new text program, FTBFYI, to better connect with those in our care.”

Feeding Tampa Bay’s communications team is attending Mega Pantries WALK THRU BETHLEHEM .................PG 4 and personally introducing those it serves HIKING SPREE ...................................PG 9 to the pilot program that will be shared with them in both English and Spanish.

ANNUAL GOLF CART PARADE ........PG 11 “Updates will include a peek into FTB EYE ON BUSINESS...........................PG 21 culture that relates to those that we serve,

By Gwen Rollings

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Operation Hope of Florida, strives to bring smiles through assistance of a toy drive and much more. Those interested in contributing can drop off the toys Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lighthouse Remnant Thrift Store. The deadline to donate is on Friday, December 11. For more information, visit www.lighthousegospelmission.org or check out its Facebook page, www.facebook.com/lighthousegospelmission. It is located at 7211 S. 78th St. in Riverview. Call 677-5220. See Full Story Page 3.

12/01/20

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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Volume 15, Issue 11

November 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 3

Deborah Meegan Retires After 18 Years As Executive Director Of Brandon Outreach Clinic

Toy Drive Hosted By Lighthouse Gospel Mission For Children In Need

Deborah Meegan, came to BOC, she knew executive director of the she was meant to be Brandon Outreach Clinic there. Everything was (BOC), never should tracking on papers. She wonder if she will leave a said, “We had a big clinic legacy as she departs space not being utilized after 18 years in her curand the need in our comrent position. munity for medical servicFrom an early age, es for Meegan had a passion to uninhelp make the world a sured Deborah Meegan better place, and even as has been an integral was retirement looms on the growing member of the Brandon area since 1979. horizon, her concern is rapidly.” So many for the uninsured in our community. improvements have been made under She said, “I would love for more unin- Meegan’s leadership, allowing the clinic sured people to know about BOC so we to go from opening several hours a week could provide them with the healthcare to four days a week now. Meegan is they need and would like more of our proud of these accomplishments because community members to be aware of this they were all done on a nonprofit, barewonderful organization that has been tak- bones budget with essentially volunteer ing care of the uninsured for over 32 staffing. years.”

In a Tampa Bay Times article, Meegan’s education positioned her Meegan said, “My motivation comes from for a life dedicated to others. After gradutwo places. The first is I work with wonating with a degree in social work, she derful volunteers who make an incredible immediately began working with the and important difference in the lives of so underserved population. After achieving a many people. They show up day after master’s degree in business administraday, year after year and ask for nothing in tion, she was employed as a financial return except the opportunity to help othcase manager for Brandon Regional ers. I am also motivated by knowing that Hospital for over 17 years prior to joining every day, there are so many people who the Brandon Outreach Clinic. need the clinic’s medical help to survive.

Her affiliations over 40 years include The work we do is so important. That’s the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, the what keep me going.”

Tampa Bay HealthCare Collaborative, the Meegan’s legacy will continue with all Florida Association of Free and those who came and will come to receive Charitable Clinics and the Brandon the gift of health.

Rotary Club.

For more on the clinic, visit www.theYet, 18 years ago, when Meegan outreachclinic.com or call 654-1388.

Spreading Since some holiday Lighthouse cheer might look Gospel slightly different Mission’s estabthis year for lishment on some families.

December 12, Lighthouse 1952 by J.A. Gospel Mission Lennard, it has and its ministry, continued proOperation Hope viding an impact of Florida, on the lives of strives to bring thousands all smiles through assisacross the Tampa tance of a toy drive Bay area. and much more.

Lennard startAll of the toys ed the mission as donated will be distriban encouragement uted during the annual to the homeless in Christmas of Hope downtown Tampa A child receiving a toy from last year’s by offering them a event, which is free to Christmas of Hope event. the community, on hot meal and Friday, December 18 at the Lighthouse clothing. Due to the growth of Gospel Mission in Riverview at 6 p.m.

Lighthouse Gospel Mission’s ministry, it Lighthouse Gospel Mission later relocated to its current spot.

Development Manager Joelle Allen “Overall, we want to others to know shared her input about the toy drive. that we are here trying to make a differ“We are trying to collect the toys for ence within the surrounding community,” children ages 2 to 10 and make sure their Allen said.

Christmas is blessed,” Allen said.

Those interested in contributing can Operation Hope of Florida is a food drop off the toys Monday through Friday ministry that distributes more than 2.4 mil- from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lighthouse lion pounds per year to families in need. It Remnant Thrift Store. The deadline to serves 2,105,497 people annually. donate is on Friday, December 11.

During Christmas of Hope, attendees For more information, visit will receive a hot meal, a food box and www.lighthousegospelmission.org or toys for kids. The overall goal of this toy check out its Facebook page, drive is to fulfill the mission through the www.facebook.com/lightlove of Jesus to serve those who are housegospelmission. It is located at hungry, hurt and addicted in communities 7211 S. 78th St. in Riverview. Call 677within its four avenues of ministry.

5220.

By Gwen Rollings

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Time To Consider Magnet And Career School Options For 2021-22

By Brad Stager

The Hillsborough on a space-available basis.

County School District’s Transportation is not providmagnet school, career and ed by the school district to technical education (CTE) out-of-area students. and school choice proThe school choice grams offer students a varioption is also available to ety of focused educational families without signing up opportunities with which to for a CTE program. In pursue their academic and those cases, the option is professional aspirations. available to students enterThe district’s first window ing grades K-11 on a for families to apply to space-available basis at these programs for the schools outside of their 2021-22 school year attendance areas. No Even during a pandemic, opened on November 2 Hillsborough County Public school district transportaSchools students have the tion is provided for school and continues through opportunity to safely explore choice.

Friday, December 11. their talents through magnet Families will be notified According to Bob Cox, and school choice options. about acceptance in late the district’s supervisor January 2021. of magnet programs, The district’s mag“Our choice and magnet net school program prooptions are some of the vides instruction at specmost dynamic and rigorified elementary, middle and high schools ous programs within our school district. that is theme-based, emphasizing areas We have worked diligently to ensure our such as performing and communication families will have an informative and arts, International Baccalaureate studies, enjoyable experience as they explore technology like robotics and game develnew educational paths through our disopment as well as business and health trict’s 80-plus magnet and choice prosciences. Transportation to magnet grams.” schools is provided by the school district.

For more information and to apply for CTE programs are areas of focus at a magnet or choice program, visit hillsbormany neighborhood middle and high oughschools.org, where you can also schools, ranging, for example, from autoparticipate in online events such as the motive maintenance and light repair at Magnet: Vision 2020 Exploration Night Brandon High School to web developpresentation on Thursday, December 3 ment at Newsome High School. Access from 6-7 p.m. Representatives from magto these choice schools and programs net schools will talk about their programs are available to students entering grades and answer questions during the event, K-11 out of the schools’ attendance areas which requires online registration.

Volume 15, Issue 11

Walk Thru Bethlehem Changes Format But Keeps Christmas Spirit Alive Since 1986, Kings Avenue Baptist Church has been hosting a festive, joy-filled Christmas tradition that transports guests directly to the ancient city of Bethlehem as it existed during the time of Jesus’ birth. Celebrating its 34th year, Walk Thru Bethlehem (WTB) is normally an interactive event where attendees experience the miracle of Christmas, but this year, due to the pandemic, the church has had to make some changes to keep everyone safe while sharing the story.

This free community event normally draws more than 6,000 visitors each year.

Typically, guests are transported during a 30-minute guided tour through authentic settings of the ancient city of Bethlehem, including actors in time-period clothing, sets, scenery and animals. More than 225 volunteers each evening would become the townspeople of Bethlehem, populated by Roman guards, weavers, blacksmiths, bakers, carpenters, potters and shepherds. The tour normally concludes with a visit to the manger with Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus.

City Director and Committee Member for WTB Tracy Hoyt said that the committee decided that because of concerns surrounding COVID-19, that this year’s format would need to change.

“We are not having our traditional WTB this year, but we are doing a series

By Kelly Valdes

at our church,” said Hoyt. “Each Sunday, we will have a portion of the city set up and the pastor will go into deeper detail of that part of the story. The stage will be set for each service representing part of the city of WTB with actors in costume and participating with Pastor John as he delves in the series.”

Hoyt understands that many families have made WTB part of their family’s holiday tradition for years.

“We have distance seating in-person worship on Sundays, but we also offer YouTube and livestreaming on Facebook,” she said. “We have an overflow space in our chapel so we can make sure everyone is di stanced correctly if that is needed.”

The series will start on Sunday, December 6 and conclude on Sunday, December 27. Services take place at 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. On December 6, topics will include Census, Tax, Oil and Wine; on December 13, the subject will be Fish, Salt, Bread and Synagogue; December 20 will be titled Inn, Carpenter, Cloth Dyer and Pottery; the Christmas Eve service on December 24 will focus on the Shepherds and Manger; and, finally, December 27 will be titled Wise Men, Cross and Tomb.

For the schedule of the modified version of Walk Thru Bethlehem, visit www.bethekingsavenue.com or call 6849453. Kings Avenue Baptist Church is located at 2602 S Kings Ave. in Brandon.

November 2020

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Congestion Relief Is Just Down The Road For Selmon Expressway Commuters

By Brad Stager

Commuters from the Alternative 6, which proBrandon and SouthShore vides noise-reducing areas of Hillsborough walls for the entire length County rely on the Lee of the project and initially Roy Selmon Expressway widens the roadway to six to provide smooth and lanes, eventually widenspeedy passage between ing to eight lanes. their suburban homes Another option, and work or recreational Alternative 2, initially opportunities in Tampa. widens the roadway to To keep things movthe ultimate goal of eight The Lee Roy Selmon ing along the east-west lanes and provides for Expressway provides a vital conduit, the Tampa constructing sound barritransportation link between Hillsborough Expressway Tampa and the suburbs to the ers between the expresseast. Officials are planning for way and adjacent neighAuthority (THEA), which an expansion of the owns and operates the expressway’s capacity to move borhoods only for porroad, is planning ahead tions of the project area. traffic. for expanding the number of travel lanes THEA officials said public input and available. support is important in developing soluThe South Selmon Project tions so that drivers will use the expressDevelopment and Environment Study is way and not neighborhood roads. underway to determine a course of action According to Sue Chrzan, director of pubto expand a 4.5-mile stretch of the lic affairs and communications for THEA, Selmon Expressway from just northeast the initial period for public comment has of its terminus at Gandy Blvd. to Whiting passed, but input is still needed as the St. in downtown Tampa. The study will be project moves forward. used to learn how neighborhoods, busi“Any comments received will still nesses and the natural environment will become part of the study’s record and will be affected by a transportation project. be considered by the study team,” According to information provided by Chrzan wrote in an email. “We will also THEA, transportation officials expect eight be holding a public meeting in early 2021 expressway traffic lanes will be needed which will provide another opportunity for east of Willow St. to Whiting St. by 2033 the public to make comments.” and eight lanes will be needed for the Details about the South Selmon length of the South Selmon project area Project Development and Environment by 2046.

Study can be found at Initial public input on a set of alternasouthselmonpde.com, which also has a tive solutions showed that the community contact portal. You can also email THEA had a preference for the plan labeled at info@selmonstudies.com.

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Volume 15, Issue 11

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Community Improvements Can Be Made With County Mini-Grant Program

By Brad Stager

Residents who tions or point us in the want to enhance the right direction,” said sense of community in Watts, referring to their neighborhood Hillsborough County’s can get financial supOffice of port to do so thanks to Neighborhood Hillsborough County’s Relations, adding that Neighborhood Mini“the county holds Grant Program. annual neighborhood Organizations conferences where such as homeowner we meet county and Lithia Ranch received a mini-grant associations, commu- from Hillsborough County to improve community leaders.” equestrian facilities and signage. nity development disOther projects in tricts and civic associations can receive the local area that received grants include grants of up to $5,000 for projects that support for the Lake St. Charles CDD’s improve their neighborhood or create development of a community information civic engagement among residents. phone app and the Lithia Ranch HOA’s The grants can be used for a variety enhancements to its equestrian facilities of projects, ranging from phone apps that and signage improvements. keep neighbors informed to street festiOne of the neighborhood liaisons vals that entertain and delight residents assisting applicants is Stephanie Agliano. while promoting community engagement. She said the goal of her office’s activities, The deadline to apply for grants is 5 p.m. such as providing mini-grants, is to on Friday, December 4, which will be disimprove the common habitability of the bursed in 2021. Grants will be awarded county by supporting local neighborthe week of Monday, January 18, 2021. hoods.

One of the neighborhood organiza“At the end of the day, we all want to tions that has previously been awarded a feel good about where we go home to.” grant is the Bloomingdale Homeowners Having a connection to the Office of Association. The HOA was awarded Neighborhood Relations is essential to funds to support its Safety First! camreceiving a grant since applicants must paign, which included the purchase of be registered with the office as a civic safety items like goggles for its annual association, homeowner association, specommunity cleanup. Bloomingdale cial taxing district or neighborhood watch Homeowners Association President group. Assistance is available for groups Susan Watts said the county backs up its wanting to create a formal neighborhood grant program with good advice as well. organization.

“Our county’s neighborhood program Visit the Hillsborough County Office has benefited us in numerous ways. of Neighborhood Relations online at hillsWanda Sloan and her staff answer quesboroughcounty.org or call 272-5860.

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November 2020

Page 7

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Kiwanis Club Of Greater Brandon Holds Golf-A-Thon And Helicopter Golf Ball Drop

By Kathy L. Collins

Each year, the instructions on how to Kiwanis Club of book your day of golf. It Greater Brandon holds will also include the golf a golf tournament. This course terms and conyear, it will continue ditions. with the tradition.

In addition, there However, in order to will be a golf ball drop safely raise money promotion. Each ticket during a pandemic, it purchased represents has converted the a unique number on a event into a Golf-Agolf ball. On the final Thon. All funds raised day of the Golf-Abenefit its youth proThon, a helicopter will The Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon grams, including the drop hundreds of numis holding a Golf-A-Thon to raise Terrific Kids, K-Kids, bered balls on a target. money for their youth programs.

Golfers can register, solicit pledges The ball number that Key Clubs and the and play up to 54 holes to support food pantry at falls into the golf hole the club. In addition, you can Gibsonton Elementary participate in the helicopter golf ball target is the winner of drop for a grand prize of $1,000.

School. the grand prize of The Golf-A-Thon is taking place now. $1,000.

Anytime until Monday, November 30, You do not need to be present to win. players can register and schedule a tee The ball drop will be live on social media time and play from 18 to 54 holes of golf. on Wednesday, December 2 at 10 a.m.

The cost to register is $100. This cost Dustie Amatangelo is the chair of the includes unlimited golf and a cart. The Golf-A-Thon. Amatangelo said, “We were Golf-A-Thon fundraiser works by having looking for a solution to replace the event friends and family sponsor you for every while still allowing golfers to golf. The hole you play with options to pledge more Golf-A-Thon allows us to raise money for for pars and birdies. If someone wants to all of our youth programs, which include make a flat pledge or donation, that can Terrific Kids, K-Kids, Key Club and our be done as well. food pantry. We partner with Mosaic and Since there are no raffles, on-course Feeding America on the latter project.” contests or auctions, the Kiwanis Club of The Kiwanis Club of Greater Greater Brandon has added a taxBrandon was established in May 1960. deductible donation built into your regisThe Kiwanis Club is a global organization tration. dedicated to changing the world “one After registering for the event, you will child one Community at a time.” receive an email confirmation with your For more information, please visit Golf-A-Thon voucher. This will include www.brandonkiwanis.org.

Bloomingdale Band Finds Queen Music Perfect For Halftime Show During Season

By Jane Owen

The Bloomingdale High School Band was still able to have a great season despite restrictions due to the pandemic.

At the start of the school year, uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic along with safety concerns for large gatherings put high school marching band seasons in question. What was never in doubt, however, was the Bloomingdale Band’s ability to keep going. The spirit and determination of the Rajun’ Bull Band cannot be stopped.

Jon Sever, Bloomingdale’s director of bands, revamped the band’s halftime show to adjust for unknowns of the season. Not knowing how long the season might go, he was able to find a Queen show through a vendor who allowed the band to purchase music a little at time.

The first song is a compilation of “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You.” The second song of the set is “Don’t Stop Me Now.” Sever explained, “The Queen song ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ seemed to fit our goals of finding a way to make the season happen under these difficult circumstances.”

With safety being the highest priority, changes had to be implemented. Indoor rehearsals require social distancing.

Specific masks to accommodate for instruments were purchased. The band plays exclusively at home games. At 218 members, the band is not allowed in the stands. They sit, spaced apart, deep in the end zone area. Refreshments come in the form of bottled water and prepack-

LAKE BRANDON VILLAGE 11325 Causeway Blvd • Brandon (813) 655-1237

aged snacks. Uniforms are cleaned after every wearing. On top of everything, the annual Florida Bandmasters Association Marching Music Performance Assessment (MPAs), which Bloomingdale was to host, was canceled.

Instead of dwelling on what they are missing out on, the students remain focused on playing their best music.

Senior drum major Rosie Harrison is proud of the band’s camaraderie and effort despite the unique challenges: “I have definitely seen the band grow very quickly under these circumstances, especially the freshman class. Everyone has all stepped up to the occasion to make sure that we are putting on the best show we possibly can amidst a lack of preseason rehearsals and with limited performance opportunities. I am very grateful to be able to do all of the things we have done this season,” said Harrison.

Sever is proud of how the students have overcome this year’s adversities.

“I feel they have come together more as a team to help each other. They appreciate what they can do in a time where they are being told what they can’t do.”

To learn more about the Bloomingdale Band, visit www.bloomingdaleband.com.

SOUTH BRANDON 2010 Bloomingdale Ave • Brandon 6am - 10pm (813) 571-0569 Hours:

Page 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

200+ Scholarships From Hillsborough Education Foundation Available For High School Seniors

Staff Report

Hillsborough Using HEF’s online Education Foundation process, students only (HEF), the only not-forneed to complete one profit focused solely on application to determine strengthening public eligibility for multiple education in scholarships. Based on Hillsborough County, is scholarship criteria, stunow accepting applicadents may be tions for senior scholarrequired to Hillsborough Education ships. complete addiFoundation is offering There are more tional essays more than 200 than 200 scholarships as part of the scholarships to high school seniors. available, ranging from qualification $500-$15,000. All process. Some Hillsborough County Public Schools 12th scholarships are not restricted only to grade students with aspirations of continpublic school students. uing their education after high school at a Established in 1987, Hillsborough university, community college or technical Education Foundation is a nonprofit college may apply for these scholarships. focused on strengthening public educa“We are able to support students’ tion by supporting teachers and empowdreams of pursuing higher education ering students to achieve academic and through the generosity of our business personal success. Together with commupartners, community organizations and nity partners, HEF strategically invests in individual donors—many of whom want initiatives that impact teaching quality and to leave the ultimate legacy of a loved increase graduation rates, bolstering a one by naming a scholarship in their thriving workforce of tomorrow and the honor,” said Hillsborough Education sustainable prosperity of Tampa Bay. Foundation CEO Kim Jowell. “We underVisit stand for many students affording the www.educationfoundation.com/seniorsch opportunity can be a financial strain on olarships for a list of available scholarfamilies. These scholarships can help ships, criteria and to apply by the Friday, ease that stress, positively impact stuJanuary 31 deadline. Recipients will be dents’ lives and the future of our commuannounced in the spring of 2021. For nity.” questions, contact Angie Anthony, director Scholarships are awarded based on of scholarships, at aanthony@educationa variety of criteria, such as GPA, field of foundation.com or 574-0273. If you’re study, financial need, challenges overinterested in funding a scholarship, concome, school and community service or tact Chief Advancement Officer Mike extracurricular activity participation, and McCollum at 574-0296 or vary from scholarship to scholarship. mmccollum@educationfoundation.com.

Volume 15, Issue 11

November 2020

Page 9

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Hiking Spree Includes 25 Trails Across 20 County & State Parks, Preserves

Staff Report

Petrified by the panThe trails are demic? Tired of politics? designed to offer someStressed from tracking thing for everyone, from yet another hurricane? hiking rookies to seaResidents looking for soned outdoor enthusisome relief—and a asts, with hikes rated great excuse to have from easy to strenuous. fun and get outside— Lengths range from less are encouraged to parthan a mile to more than ticipate in Hillsborough 6 miles. The environCounty’s Hiking Spree, mentally diverse sites which started earlier this are spread throughout month. the county and range The 2020-21 Hillsborough County The annual Hiking Hiking Spree kicks off this month. from neighborhood Spree began in 2016 parks like Carrollwood as a way to encourage people to Village Park to large preserves exercise, explore the outdoors with multiple habitats like the and experience nature through 1,100-acre Lake Dan Nature the county’s numerous parks Preserve. For the first time, and preserves. The Hiking this year’s list includes two Spree has grown in popularity state parks: Alafia River State each year, drawing thousands of Park and Little Manatee River participants and is expected to State Park. be particularly popular this year “The 2021 Hiking Spree as it offers residents a safe way to have isn’t just for walkers. Some trails are ideal fun outside during the pandemic. for bicycles, strollers, in-line skates or “Following COVID-19 precautions is wheelchairs. Studies show spending time a breeze when you’re walking or rolling in nature has many health benefits. along any of the 25 trails at 20 county Among them: it reduces stress, boosts parks and nature preserves selected for the immune system, increases energy the 2021 Hiking Spree,” said Hillsborough levels and improves sleep,” said Pratt.

County’s Todd Pratt.

The Hiking Spree is timed to take This year’s Hiking Spree trail list feaadvantage of the cooler, drier weather tures 25 trails at 20 locations throughout and to coincide with prime bird-watching the county. Complete at least eight before times. Participants are encouraged to Wednesday, March 31, 2021 and earn a post photos from their hikes using the patch, a medallion for a walking stick or a hashtag #TakeAHikeHC. dog bandana. One of the hikes can be at For more information and to register, a location of the participant’s choice that visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org and is not on the list. search for the Hiking Spree page.

Make The T Holidays About Family! y!

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Page 10

Volume 15, Issue 11

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Brandon Ballet To Perform The Nutcracker Outdoors To Kick Off Its 27th Season

By Kathy L. Collins

The Brandon Ballet young girl to whom Herr will present its annual Drosselmeyer gifts the production of beloved Nutcracker doll.

Tchaikovsky’s holiday This year, due to the risk classic, The Nutcracker. that bringing outside This year, the performdancers in to perform the ances will take place on usual parts poses, Artistic an outdoor stage at Director Doricha Sales has Overflow Church in transformed the Clara role.

Valrico. Audiences will Clara is now a grandmother. have three opportunities She gives the Nutcracker to to watch the performher favorite granddaughter, ances on Saturday, Marie, who then gets to December 5 at 7:30 relive the magic of her The Brandon Ballet will not p.m. and on Sunday, grandmother’s journey allow a pandemic to stop its December 6 at 3 p.m. dancers from performing. This through the Land of and 5:30 p.m. year, it will present a classic Sweets.” ballet, The Nutcracker, Tickets are $20 and Townend added, “Even outdoors. Audiences will see a can be purchased by as we are continuing to reimagined holiday classic visiting www.brandonbring the art of dance to the performed in a safe and responsible manner. ballet.org/2th-season/. community, we are also Overflow Church is located at 4929 Bell continuing to keep our dancers and audiShoals Rd. in Valrico. ence members safe. Company memHannah Townend, administrative bers now dance in smaller groups than director of the Brandon Ballet, said, before, which not only makes seeing “While The Nutcracker. is usually pereach dancer’s individual face easier, formed in an indoor theater, we are but also ensures social distancing even choosing to present this magical ballet on in the performance. For the iconic snow an outdoor stage. Audiences will bring scene, which utilizes a large cast, their own chairs and blankets and hot dancers will don a mask in addition to beverages, if they choose, and sit back their sparkling white tutus." and enjoy the show within the beauty of This is the 27th season of the nature. In addition to this new and excitBrandon Ballet. The nonprofit was ing way of viewing dance, various wellestablished in 1993 as a pre-profesknown roles in The Nutcracker.have been sional ballet company. The Brandon revamped with reimagined choreography Ballet provides superior training and to bring a new look to the roles we all offers three major performances each know and love.” year.

The role of Clara is a good example.

For information, visit www.brandonTownend explained, “Usually, Clara is the ballet.org or call 684-4282.

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Page 11

Local Teen Sends Smiles To All Children’s Infusion Center With Her Nonprofit

Bring The Family For Fourth Annual Apollo Beach Lighted Christmas Golf Cart Parade

Sending Smiles.

Smiles, a nonprofit, Addison’s nonprofit was formed four is unique in that the years ago by then donations provided are 9-year-old Valrico specifically designated resident Addison for the children being Kapustiak. Today, treated in the Infusion Addison is 13, and Center. There, children she and her mothwith serious illnesses er, Alice Kapustiak, are treated intravenousare bringing aware- Valrico resident Addison Kapustiak cele- ly, sometimes spending ness to Sending brates her 13th birthday and four years full days of treatment. of Sending Smiles.

Smiles.

There is a special toy Addison is an e-learning student who closet within this center that only the infudedicates a large portion of her time to sion therapy patients can access. Most helping others through her nonprofit. She toys in this closet are small but help is also an avid soccer player; however, brighten the day for these young patients. she suffers from tumor necrosis factor For the more difficult visits, there is a spereceptor-associated periodic syndrome cial closet with extra special toys for the (TRAPS)—a condition characterized by children. The day when Addison received recurrent episodes of fevers that can last her mediport, she explained, “There were anywhere from a few days to a few no toys in the toy closet. I felt sad for the months. other children.”

“Chemo-like medications that deplete The barriers faced while attempting Addison’s immune system make her to collect donations during COVID-19 this more susceptible to all other illnesses,” year have not been the only hurdles to said Alice. overcome for Sending Smiles. The group Addison also suffers from Chiari mal- lost more than 1,000 toys to a rodent formation and has undergone three brain infestation that occurred at the storage surgeries in hopes for relief from this facility where the toys were kept this year. painful condition. In past years, she According to Alice, Sending Smiles’ organized toy drives in her community. current goal is to make up for this loss.

Due to COVID-19, and because she is She adds that her wish for Addison’s 13th immunosuppressed from her own treatbirthday is “to make this year’s toy drive ments, hosting toy drives has become as big as the years before.” more difficult.

John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Addison receives infusion therapy at is requiring Christmas donations be John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital’s received by Monday, November 30. To Infusion Center. While receiving her medi- donate, www.facebook.com/S port, she was inspired to create Sending endingSmilestoAllKids/ for details.

One of Apollo “This year, they’re Beach’s favorite annual doing a breakfast with holiday events is returnSanta at the Salty ing for a day of family Shamrock also,” said fun, as well as a Batten.

Christmas season display According to Batten, of electric vehicle creativthe golf carts, decorated ity. with Christmas ornaThe fourth annual ments and lights, will Apollo Beach Lighted begin the parade at the Christmas Golf Cart Salty Shamrock parking Parade will take place lot, located at 6186 N. Saturday, December 5 U.S. Hwy. 41 in Apollo with festivities getting Beach, just south of underway at 12 Noon, Apollo Beach Blvd. The Seasonally decorated and according to the event’s parade will travel about illuminated golf carts will parade down Apollo Beach 2.5 miles west toward Facebook page.

Blvd. on Saturday, December The Christmas golf Tampa Bay on Apollo 5 during the Apollo Beach cart parade is hosted by Lighted Christmas Golf Cart Beach Blvd., turning back Parade.

ICON Electric Vehicles, east at the intersection a nationally known and locally owned with Surfside Blvd. to end where it manufacturer of electric vehicles, rang- began. ing from golf carts suitable for personal Before the parade, starting at about leisure and recreational use to utility 2 p.m., there will be a ‘holiday vendor models built for moving goods and fair,’ in the Salty Shamrock’s parking lot people on a commercial level. where there will be family-friendly games Lana Batten is the office manager and activities, according to Batten. for ICON and has worked with her “There will be face painting and difteam to create what has grown into a ferent stuff for the kids to do,” she said. fun and greatly anticipated tradition in Registration for golf cart parade parApollo Beach. ticipants will be conducted on-site and “It’s been a really great success,” prior to formation of the parade lineup, said Batten. “Last year, we had a hunwhich is expected to commence at dred-plus golf carts in the parade.” about 6:30 p.m. Parade organizers say Batten added that, besides the evening the event should wrap up by about 9 golf cart parade, there will be other p.m. activities for parade-goers to enjoy, and You can check for updates and as is true with just about any Christmas express interest in attending the event season event, a special guest is by searching Facebook for ‘Apollo scheduled to make an appearance.

Beach Golf Cart Parade 2020.’

By Denise Graf

By Brad Stager

11/30/2020

Page 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Tampa Bay Rum Company Still Offering Tastings, Tours & Making Essential Hand Sanitizer

By Libby Hopkins

gTampa Bay Rum theft while it was shut Company located in down during the panYbor City was created demic. The highs were by chiropractor that it joined forces Samuel Myers who felt with Coppertail Tampa’s pirates needBrewing Co., also in ed their own locally Ybor City, to create, made rum. sell and donate hand The legendary sanitizer to the Tampa pirate, José Gaspar, Bay community and still lives in residents’ its local businesses. hearts, but his rum “Coppertail had a was lost to time, forclot of keg beer that ing the fine citizens of wasn’t going to get Tampa to endure rums sold and they asked shipped from distant us if we wanted to disTampa Bay Rum Company located in till it to make hand lands while celebratYbor City was created by chiropractor sanitizer,” Myers said. ing his spirit every Samuel Myers.

January during Tampa Bay Rum Gasparilla. But what was lost has been Company recently donated hand sanitizer found, and Myers and his team are happy to the Center Place Fine Arts and Civic to now provide Tampa’s own Gaspar’s Association of Brandon to assist in the and Gasparilla Rums. center’s reopening efforts.

“I wanted to create this because Myers and his team want to make Tampa is pirate-crazy; we have all the their products Tampa Bay’s rum of beautiful beaches where rum drinks are choice. sold, so I was able to trademark “I want Tampa Bay and Gasparilla to Gasparilla Rum and we’ve been making have their very own rum,” Myer said. rum since 2018,” Myers said. “We have “Gasparilla is the biggest pirate festival in various rum products, a sugar canethe world and the third largest parade in based vodka and some barrel-aged prod- America, so what’s more important to a ucts.” pirate than rum? I want us to be the rum The barrel-aged products Tampa Bay of choice when they order a rum cocktail Rum Company released in 2019 won at a local bar or restaurant.”

American Distilling Institute’s ‘Best Rum’ To learn more about the Tampa Bay in category and class.

Rum Company’s products or to schedule The recent pandemic has given the a tour and tasting at the distillery, visit local rum company some highs and lows www.gasparillarum.com or call 284-5485. over the last few months. The lows The tasting room and distillery are located included some issues with vandalism and at 2102 E. 4th Ave. in Ybor City.

Volume 15, Issue 11

November 2020

Page 13

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

YMCA Of Tampa Bay Named Business Journal ‘2020 One Tampa Bay’ Honoree

Staff Report

The YMCA of 8,000 senior memthe Tampa Bay bers to prevent recently received social isolation and recognition for the lift their spirits. The help given to the YMCA team also community during produced virtual the early days of resources to help the pandemic. The community memgroup was named bers stay active, a ‘2020 One healthy Tampa Bay’ honand oree by the Tampa conThe YMCAs of Tampa Bay were Bay Business nected recognized recently for work done Journal. in their for the community during the early ‘One Tampa own days of the pandemic.

Bay’ is a Tampa Bay Business Journal home. award that honors nonprofit organizations Additionally, blood drives hosted at and for-profit companies for their philanYMCAs across Tampa Bay have positivethropic efforts. This year’s class features ly impacted 2,637 lives so far.

17 corporate philanthropy honorees and Furthermore, the Ys conducted 1,678 vir21 nonprofit organizations out of over 220 tual reading and Early Head Start sesnominations. sions to help students stay on track.

Stepping in to fill critical voids, the “For more than a century, the Y and Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA transithe Tampa Bay community have made it tioned its Y facilities to provide emergency through many challenging times togethrelief care for 1,534 children of medical er. Historically, the Y has played imporpersonnel, first responders and other tant roles in helping our community essential workers during the initial months endure during times of uncertainty and of the pandemic. In doing so, the Y was societal strain. The current COVID-19 able to provide over 308,800 hours of pandemic is another challenge that none safe fun and 15,440 healthy meals to chil- of us will soon forget,” said Matt Mitchell, dren in partnership with local school dispresident and CEO of the Tampa tricts.

Metropolitan Area YMCA. “We are fortuTogether with Feeding Tampa Bay nate to have the support of our neighand other community organizations, Ys boring Ys, community partners, donors across Tampa Bay served more than and staff to find ways to use our 70,000 meals to families in need, providresources to offer solutions to social ed 1,104 baby care essentials and gave voids.”

753 cloth masks to community members To learn more, visit www.ymcatamin need. Y staff reached out to nearly pabay.org.

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Page 14

Volume 15, Issue 11

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Dora Parks, A Shining Example Of Hillsborough County’s Crossing Guards

By Lily Belcher

Dora Parks she greets families and spends the first two kids at her crosswalk,” hours of her morning said Sheriff Chad watching the sun rise Chronister. over Mintz Parks retired from Elementary School J.P. Morgan after workwhile directing traffic ing in the corporate and helping families banking world for 25 cross safely. While years. After retiring last the duty of a crossApril, however, she was ing guard for looking for a way to Hillsborough County continue to work. is to help children “I’m the type of percrossing busy streets son who [does not] like and intersections, to sit around even Parks takes it a step though I retired,” she Dora Parks mans her post near Mintz said. “And I’m such a further by brightenElementary every morning. ing each person’s people person and I morning with a cheerful love kids. So, I said, greeting and wave ‘You know what, this is when they pass her on [going to] be a great their way to school or opportunity for me to work. become a crossing Every morning, Parks warmly greets guard. I mean, it’s only two hours a day, it each family that crosses her corner on won’t hurt.’” their way to Mintz Elementary, whether its She started as a crossing guard in waving to their cars or holding short conDecember but took a break for a few versations with them while they wait for months after being offered a position traffic. She remembers each person and working with special needs kids. The family she sees and is a perfect example opportunity held a special place in her of the pleasant and helpful attitude that heart as one of her daughters, Banesia the sheriff’s office looks for in its crossing Parks, is a special needs adult. The coroguards. navirus forced her to continue as a cross“Dora Parks is a shining example of ing guard since it was safer for her health. the type of individual I want safely guiding “Dora Parks has children of her own, our children on the way to and from but she also takes care of her students as school. Her philosophy, ‘If you see someif they are her own,” said Chronister. “We one without a smile, give them yours,’ are incredibly lucky to have her as one of isn’t just something she says, it someour crossing guards here in Hillsborough thing she lives by every single day when County.”

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

For Veterans Day, The Bridges Unveils New Wall Recognizing Its Residents Who Served

By Libby Hopkins

Janet Noah has months before that had the pleasure of when the Allies and being the director of Germany put into community relations effect an armistice on of The Bridges for the the 11th hour of the past 10 years. In 11th day of the 11th those 10 years, she month. has gotten to know For that reason, To honor the veterans living at The Bridges, Noah and her staff have and love the resiNovember 11, 1918 is created an ‘Honoring Our Veterans dents at the facility. largely considered the Wall’. One of the veterans, Edward She has also grown Sillick (pictured), is 100 years old and end of ‘the war to end served in WWII with the U.S. Army. a fondness for the all wars’ and dubbed veterans who are residents there.

‘Armistice Day.’ In 1926, Congress official“I have come to know our veteran ly recognized it as the end of the war. In residents and have great respect for them 1938, it became an official holiday to and the sacrifices they made serving our honor veterans of World War I, but then country,” Noah said.

World War II and the Korean War hapTo honor the veterans living at The pened. Therefore, on June 1, 1954, at the Bridges, Noah and her staff have created urging of veterans service organizations, an ‘Honoring Our Veterans Wall’ that will Congress amended the commemoration be unveiled on this upcoming Veterans yet again by changing the word ‘armistice’ Day. to ‘veterans’ so the day would honor “We have 15 veterans currently American veterans of all wars. residing here,” Noah said. “We have Fifteen veterans will be featured on always honored our veterans with a spethe wall at The Bridges. “A photo of the cial program on Veterans Day. Veterans veteran in their uniform during their time deserve our honor and this wall, of service, their current photo, branch of ‘Honoring Our Veterans,’ is dedicated to military, years served and military rank will them and their service to our country. Six be featured,” Noah said. “It gives us great of our veterans served during WWII and pleasure to create this special wall for our of those six, one is a woman who joined veterans. It will continue to be our tradithe U.S. Navy and served as a WAVE, tion. As new resident veterans move in, Women Accepted for Volunteer we will add to this wall. I am excited for Emergency Service.” our veterans to see their special wall and Veterans Day was originally called especially for their families to see it.

Armistice Day, commemorating the end To learn more about The Bridges, of World War I. World War I officially visit www.bridgesretirement.com or conended when the Treaty of Versailles, tact Noah at 413-8900. The Bridges is which was signed on June 28, 1919. located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in However, the fighting ended about seven Riverview.

Ideas for Thanking Your Family

by Joanna Springstead It’s almost Thanksgiving. And although 2020 has been a tough things for which you can be thankful – such as your family. How can you show your appreciation for your loved ones?

for support. You can help yourself by consistently investing in your IRA and 401(k).

And don’t forget to maintain adequate life insurance.

Finally, don’t put off your estate planning. You’ll want to be able to leave Here are a few ideas: a lasting legacy to your First, consider investing in family. A legal professionyour children’s future by al can help you create a contributing to a college savings plan. If you have strategy that’s suitable for older children, you can your needs.

By making these moves, JOANNA help them pay off loans or SPRINGSTEAD you can show your loved make a down payment on ones, in a tangible way, Financial Advisor a home. how much you value them – and that can help you keep the spirit of Thanksgiving independence, so you’ll never have alive all year long. to depend on your grown children

joanna.springstead@edwardjones.com

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Page 16

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

r u e n e r p tre n E d i K Expo, le HS a d g n i m Bloo rt & More Conce nnett nny Be m e J y b d o e Compil preyobserver.c s o @ tt e n jben

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Makes Halloween A Treat For Hospitalized Kids

Halloween is a day that most kids look forward to, a day to dress up, play pretend and, of course, trick-or-treat.

When children are hospitalized during the holiday, their expectations remain the same, which is why each year the Child Life team at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital organizes a day of funfilled activities for patients. Because of the additional safety measures in place due to COVID-19, the Child Life team switched things up this year and hosted a reverse trickor-treat with doctors, nurses and other caregivers delivering treats to patients in their hospital rooms. “Being able to celebrate Halloween while in hospital brings about some normalcy, which is truly important for our patients and their families,” said Child Life Team Supervisor Hadley Trull. Patients were also able to choose from dozens of Halloween cos-

tumes and participated in a virtual, Halloweenthemed bingo.

Florida Council On Economic Education Presents Free Discussion

The Florida Council on Economic Education is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to prepare Florida’s young people for personal and financial success through educational programs in economics, the free enterprise system and personal financial literacy so that they become productive members of the workforce. It is pleased to share that it has partnered with Brandon Copeland, linebacker for the New England Patriots, who will present a free virtual discussion, Tackling Financial Literacy, on Tuesday, December 1 at 10 a.m. To join the presentation, go to fcee.org/tacklingfinancial-literacy.

Kid Entrepreneur Expo And Holiday Market Presented By Tampa Bay HEAT

The Tampa Bay HEAT is presenting a Holiday Market and Mini Merchants Kid Entrepreneur Expo on Saturday, December 5 from 9 a.m-1 p.m. The market will held at 1010 E. Brandon Blvd. in the Grace Bible Church parking lot. This is a great holiday event with lots of home made crafts, baked goods and other items available from both adult and kid

Volume 15, Issue 11

will just have to take home with you.

Stepping Out Strong To Help Prevent Falls

Did you know that every 13 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall? Or that falls are the leading cause of hospitalizations among people 65 and older? To keep people on their feet, American Bone Health has organized the largest community awareness campaign to support the National Patients celebrating Halloween at St. Joseph’s Council on Aging’s fall prevention proChildren’s Hospital. vendors. Admission is free. gram. Get your balance checked and learn simple exercises you can do at Bloomingdale High School Presents home to improve balance, strength and Holiday Under The Stars flexibility by watching the Stepping Out The Bloomingdale High School Strong webinar on Friday, November 24 music department will be presenting at midday at Holiday Under the Stars on Thursday, https://event.webinarjam.com/channel/sos December 10 at 6 p.m. in the -hbtb-11-24.

Bloomingdale High School football stadium. Students from Bloomingdale High Eating For Healthy Bones Webinar School Band, Chorus, Orchestra and If your body is a castle, your bones Crimson Guard are all excited to have the are the foundation. To keep our bones opportunity to showcase their talents for strong and healthy for life, we need to their families, friends and community. feed them properly. Find out how by There will also be vendors to help get watching Eating For Healthy Bones, a your Christmas shopping done and purfree, live, virtual event that will empower chase swag from the music departand enlighten you on ment. This is a free event and is Monday, November 16 at sure to be lots of fun. Masks and 11:30 a.m. Some of what you social distancing will be required. will learn about will include

St. Patrick Church Saturday Market And Craft Show

St. Patrick Church is hosting its Saturday morning market and craft show on November 28 from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The event will take place at the church, located at 4518 S. Manhattan Ave. Tampa. As well as the usual market vendors, you will be sure to find some beautiful holiday decorations or gifts that you

how calcium and vitamin D work together to build and rebuild your bones, what other vitamins and minerals are key players for bone health and what foods provide these. When you might need supplements and what to take are also covered.

To view the webinar, visit https://event.webinarjam.com/channel/eh b-11-16-hbtb.

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November 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 17

Clarke Automotive Systems Hosts First Annual Pie Contest, Cash Prizes For Winners

Boy Scouts Of America Presents Badge Of Honor To Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

contestants will be asked for an entry to the finals, having the top three winners getting a prize.” The first 15 contestants to enter will receive a $25 gift certificate for simply entering a pie.

Pie competitions Bob Clarke (center) is a pillar of the Brandon community. He got their start in 1949 is hosting Brandon’s Clarke Automotive Pie Baking Contest. when the Grand Bob Clarke is a pillar of the Brandon National Recipe and Baking Contest, community. He is the owner of Clarke what would become the Pillsbury BakeAutomotive Systems, which has been a Off, was held for the first time at the part of the Brandon community since Waldorf Astoria New York hotel. Sixty1978. “We have earned many long-term customers since we opened our business seven years later, the biannual bake-off now awards a whopping $1 million to the in 1978,” Clarke said. “We’re a family-run first place winner. business and our customers feel like part A panel of judges from Clarke of our extended family. Visit us and see Automotive will judge the entries. “This is why clients trust us to be their preferred a blind judging, and all decisions of the auto repair shop for life.” judges are final,” Clarke said.

Clarke is a strong believer in supportIf you would like to enter the Clarke ing the Brandon community too. “We are Automotive Pie Baking Contest, email truly committed to our community and your name and contact info provide auto repair workshops for women to bclarke@gte.net.

You will receive a and children,” Clarke said. “We also teach confirmation email of entry. and donate equipment to Brandon High Contestants may enter no more than School.” one pie. A detailed recipe and a list of It’s because of his supporting local ingredients must accompany each pie. spirit that Clarke decided to host a local Pies must have a bottom crust, perpie contest. “The first-ever Clarke haps a top crust and a filling. Sweet pies Automotive Pie Baking Contest is open to only, and tart entries are also allowed. amateur bakers,” Clarke said. “Each pie The entrant must make crust and filling must be made from scratch, no frozen from scratch only.

Pies should be submitpies, canned filling or premade crusts ted covered and at a proper temperature allowed. We will be taking a total of 15 for the type of pie. Pies must be made in contestants, five entries per week to be disposable 9 or 9-½-inch pie pans, and judged. The winner of each week will be please, no frozen pies. moved into the finals. The four winning

The Hillsborough est honor, the Eagle County Sheriff’s Scout rank.

Office received the “The lessons I Boy Scouts of learned as I became America’s an Eagle Scout have Participating helped me all my Citizenship Award life,” Scott said. “I for service to the want to thank all of community at a virthe volunteers, all of tual event on the troop leaders October 26. and all of the law “We are enforcement that extremely excited to help our Scouts. showcase the work Keep up the good of law enforcework, and never ment…who have stop pursuing your been instrumental in dreams.” helping all of us stay According to the safe and move Greater Tampa Bay through uncharted Area Council, the circumstances,” the Hillsborough County council’s director of Sheriff’s Office and field service, the Boy Scouts of Dwayne Jones, said.

America maintain a “How we work longstanding parttogether makes our nership through the communities better.”

Law Enforcement The Participating Explorers Program.

Citizenship Award A separate branch “recognizes the selfof Scouting, less service of local Explorers’ posts are heroes,” including dedicated to vocalaw enforcement tional learning. For canines, Jones said. law enforcement Senator Rick Scott programs like and former Tampa Hillsborough’s Post Bay Buccaneer 238, this consists of Ronde Barber also experiential activimade appearances ties and competition. during the program, Jones concluded thanking both the the program by asksheriff’s office and Senator Rick Scott, football player ing viewers to Ronde Barber and Director of Field donate to support local Scouting volService Dwayne Jones participated local programs like unteers. in a virtual recognition of service to “Trying times the community from the Boy Scouts Exploring and tradiof America to the Hillsborough prioritize what is tional Scouting.

County Sheriff’s Office last month. According to the important and now, more than ever, tying as many Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, threads together for a common this will help Scouting’s districts and cause is essential,” Barber told properties weather what has been a viewers. challenging year for all nonprofit Barber expressed a sense of organizations. shared obligation between volun“Through all of this, we are teer-led programs like the Boy excited to know that many of the Scouts and law enforcement as ‘ser- tenets of Scouting such as helping vants of the public’ to better the our neighbors, checking in on those lives of young people in local comin need and putting others before munities. ourselves has strengthened our During his appearance, Scott sense of community and civic duty,” referenced his own time in Scouting. Jones said. “Participating citizenship He remembered signing up for the is at the foundation of the lessons Cub Scouts in the second grade and learned in the Scouting programs.” eventually receiving Scouting’ high-

By Libby Hopkins

By Brandon Kathman

Page 18

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 11

AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquors Hopes To Increase The IMPACT Program Hosts Coach Purse Bottle Sales With Holiday Event Bingo In Person & Virtually

By Libby Hopkins

AJ’s Fine Wine why it’s best to purchase and Liquor annual in advance. These bottles Jack Daniels’ make a wonderful Engraving Event Christmas gift that can has become a holicost $20 all the way up to day tradition to the $200.”

Valrico community.

The engraving Ajay process only Jambhekar, owner takes about of AJ’s Fine Wine 15 minutes and Liquors is and this year gearing up for his customers can annual bottlealso have logos Ajay Jambhekar is the owner of engraving event. engraved on the AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquors He has again bottles or other teamed up with Jack Daniel’s to host a bottle-engraving event on teamed up with sayings other Dec. 5 from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Jack Daniels to than holiday greetings. offer engraving on liquor bottles.

Jambhekar hopes to beat last year’s “I started this event a few years ago engraved bottle record of 95 bottles. and I do it two times a year, once at “My goal is to have over 100 bottles Christmas time and the other around engraved at this year’s event,” Father’s Day,” Jambhekar said. “These Jambhekar said. “Last year we did 95 events are done basically as way to say and the previous year we did 85, so I ‘Thank You’ to our customers.” want to do at least 100 or more.”

The bottle-engraving event will take Jambhekar loves educating his cusplace on December 5 at Jambhekar’s tomers on the different liquors, wines and store from 5-8.pm. beers he offers in his store.

This year’s event will feature six dif“In the liquor and food industry, the ferent liquors to choose from for the bottle two most important things are taste and engraving including Jack Daniels, Jack quality,” Jambhekar said. “I like to let my Daniels Single Barrel, Jack Daniels customers know about how different Single Barrel Proof, Jack Daniel Frank products taste and save them money at Sinatra, Gentleman Jack and Woodford the same time.”

Reserve.

To learn more about the bottle“This a one-day only event and cusengraving event or to pre-purchase a bottomers can pre-purchase their bottles and tle to be engraved, contact Jambhekar at pick them up the night of the event or the 654-6488. AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquors is next day,” Jambhekar said. “This year, located at 3443 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in there are no restrictions on how many The Shoppes at Lithia-Publix Plaza in bottles customers can purchase. This is Valrico.

By Kate Quesada

The IMPACT tion prizes at the Program is not letting event. Additional COVID-19 slow down Friendship sponsorits fundraising. Impact, ship opportunities are which promotes available for $100, healthy lifestyles and which will include a relationship for teens, ticket to the event. is hosting its annual Players wishing to Coach Purse Bingo in attend the event online person and online this can purchase a bingo year, making it a great card for $10. A Zoom event for anyone interlink and game cards ested in having fun will be emailed to all while raising funds for online participants IMPACT is hosting a fundraising a great cause. before the event. bingo event next month with both The Coach Purse In person, doors online and in-person options.

Bingo, with title sponwill open at 6:30 p.m. sors The George Shea Team and bingo will begin with Signature Realty and Hi promptly at 7:15 p.m. for Tech Automotive, will take all participants. place at The Regent in “We will have five bags Riverview on Tuesday, to give away,” said Kagey.

December 1 from 6:30-9 p.m.

“We are hoping everyone can enjoy “We recognize that this has been this event in the way they feel is most a challenging year for many people comfortable for them.” and our local charities have been hit Tickets can be purchased online very hard,” said Angie Kagey, through Eventbrite at IMPACT’s executive director. “In an www.impactcoachbingo.eventbrite.co effort to bring some holiday cheer and m. The deadline to purchase tickets a little fun to our community, while at will be Friday, November 27. the same time meeting our organizaThe Regent is located at 6437 tion’s budget needs, we felt this event Watson Rd., just off Boyette Rd. in should proceed.”

Riverview. To learn more about the Tickets to the in-person event are event and sponsorship opportunities, $20 and include coffee and dessert. please email Kagey at Additional sets of three bingo cards akagey@whatisimpact.com. will be available to purchase for $20.

For more information on IMPACT, There will be opportunities to purvisit it on Facebook or at chase tickets for raffles and silent auc- www.whatisimpact.com.

November 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 19

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Page 20

Volume 15, Issue 11

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

This has been a year like no other. We are incredibly grateful that the housing market has stayed strong but we are aware that there are industries hard hit by this year.

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Brandon/Winthrop

November 2020

Volume 15, Issue 11 Ph: 657-2418

37

Brandon Regional Hospital Now Offers Alternative To Long-Term Blood Thinners

Brandon Regional Hospital is pleased to announce that t the first hospital in Hillsborough County to offer the latest alternative to long term blood thinner medications with a newly designed left atrial appendage closure device. A first-of-it’s-kind, the device is a proven alternative to blood thinners for stroke risk reduction in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart related complications.

LeAnne’s Cookies Celebrates 34 Years In Business

As a finance major at the University of Central Florida, one of LeAnne Crabtree’s required marketing projects was to plan and set up a business, keep accurate records and report any profits or losses her business generated. LeAnne decided to bake and sell cookies, which were an instant hit with the college students, professors, neighbors and friends, who all bought all the cookies she could produce.

LeAnne immediately made a profit, but her professor gave her a ‘C,’ emphatically stating, “People are becoming too health conscious and will no longer eat cookies; therefore, this business will not be a success.” That class was 34 years ago; LeAnne decided to ignore her professor’s criticism.

To find out more about LeAnne’s delicious cookies, visit her website at www.leannescookSteve (picies.com.

Master Garage Door Co. Celebrates 23 Years

tured) and Tawnie Manning are celebrating 23 years since opening Master Garage Door Co.

Steve and Tawnie Manning have been in the garage door industry for 42 years and are celebrating the opening of their own business, Master Garage Door Co., 23 years ago this month. Familyowned and operated since 1997, Master Garage Door Co. has been serving the community and offering the highest quality service and parts. It features C.H.I. garage doors and LiftMaster garage door openers and is an accredited member of the International Door Association.

Its hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Visit its website, mastergaragedoor.com or www.facebook.com/mastergaragedoor/ for more information.

BayCare Medical Group Welcomes New Doctor

Dr. Richa K. Patel, MD recently joined BayCare Medical Group at the

BayCare HealthHub, located at 2470 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Dr. Patel is board certified in internal medicine and obesity medicine with a specialty in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism. Dr. Patel is affiliated with St. Joseph’s Hospital - South in Riverview and is accepting new patients age 18 and older.

To learn more about Dr. Patel, visit DrRichaPatel.org. To make an appointment, call 586-8530.

Canine Cabana Is Now Offering Spa Services

Canine Cabana has recently expanded their services to include spa baths and treatments for your dog, just in time for the upcoming holiday season. Regularly scheduled, high-quality baths promote an overall

healthier dog by proactively addressing skin, coat and shedding concerns. Not only does it offer exceptional groom baths, Canine Cabana has options for healthy skin, coat and shedding control treatments. Appointments are scheduled with one of its certified groom technicians; appointments can be booked independently or with any of its daycare, lodging or training services seven days a week. A few Canine Cabana customers who received spa services raved about the quality and exceptional service. “I just love the spa days at Canine Cabana because he looks so fresh and fluffy.

They are great with him and he loves them so much,” stated Hillary about her dog, Teddy.

Canine Cabana is a premium pet lodging facility offering overnight accommodations, fun doggy daycare, enrichment activities, spa services and training.

It is located at 9708 Carr Rd. in Riverview. If you would like additional information, please contact Angie Pickren at 672-9663 or email angie@caninecabana.biz.

The Flying Locksmiths Celebrates Four-Year Anniversary

Michael and Tammy Broussard, owners of The Flying Locksmiths, recently celebrated their four-year anniversary.

The Flying Locksmiths has been installing confidence since 1946 and its technicians are well-versed in a large array of commercial security work. It offers access

Continued on Next Page

Page 22

Volume 15, Issue 11

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Business Column Continued................... control, doors, intercoms, locks, safes, COVID-19 solutions and more, along with commercial service and dedication to customer service, commitment to quality workmanship and passion for identifying the newest industry technology.

The Flying Locksmiths is located at 156 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon.

For more information, visit https://flyinglocksmiths.com, and you can reach them by calling 716-5341.

Custom-Fit Earbuds Available From Florida E.N.T. & Allergy

Part of creating an essential at-home tool kit during this time is to find a reliable and secure pair of earbuds that combine comfort and convenience. Generic factory earbuds can cause pain in the ear and tend to fall out easily. Florida E.N.T. & Allergy is offering one-of-a-kind earbuds that are customized for every patient. The earbud moldings are shaped precisely to the unique contours of your ear, providing comfort and great sound quality. The earbuds are created and returned approximately 710 days later and the correct fitting is then ensured by an audiologist. They come in a wide range of colors and can be made to fit many headphone brands and models.

For more information or to learn about other products and services offered

by Florida E.N.T. & Allergy, visit www.FloridaENTandAllergy.com or call 879-8045.

Chill Cawfee Expands To Riverview

Chill Cawfee launched its first location in Valrico only seven months ago and

By Jenny Bennett

is now partnering with Gracie Brandon to open a second location in the Lake St. Charles community. Gracie Brandon specializes in mixed martial arts, kickboxing and student programs, and now coffee lovers can work remotely in Chill Cawfee while their kids or friends are training. Continuing the tradition of the first location, it will be serving its specialty coffees, which have proven to be very popular, and as a certified hemp retailer, it will bring the highest quality, lab-tested hemp products as well, including medical-grade CBD oils, topical solutions, edibles and, most importantly, education.

Chill Cawfee can be found at 10528 Lake St. Charles Blvd. in Riverview and is open Monday to Saturday from 6 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Sundays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Florida Orthopaedic Announces New Riverview Office

Florida Orthopaedic Institute opened its new facility in Riverview on October 7, located at 11286 Boyette Rd. “As we continue to implement methods to provide enhanced access for our patients, we are proud to expand our reach to better serve our Riverview community,” said Lee Levanduski, chief operating officer. “The new office will provide clinical appointments, physical therapy and ancillary services such as diagnostic imaging, casting, bracing and durable medical equipment.”

The orthopaedic practice also brings the number of physicians to 43 as it added Dr. Michael Doarn to its division of Hand/Upper Extremity. Dr. Doarn is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and he is a member

of numerous organizations, including the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Medical Association.

For additional information, visit www.floridaortho.com, or call 393-1523 to schedule an appointment.

Pepin Academies Receives Free Antimicrobial Cleaning Services

Bio-Safe Surfaces and partner Pro Clean USA are providing free deep cleaning and sanitation services for all three of Pepin Academies’ campuses for the entire 2020-2021 school year. The services are in response to Pepin Academies’ call for donations as part of its Adopt-aClassroom and Adopt-a-Student campaigns. “We saw the news that Pepin Academies Foundation is launching fundraising campaigns to help students and teachers, and it was an easy decision for both our companies,” said Michael Fineo, Bio-Safe Surfaces’ chief executive officer. “This will create and maintain a safer environment for the entire administration, teachers, staff and, of course, for all of the special needs students and their families.”

To learn more about Bio-Safe Surfaces and its services, visit www.biosafesurfaces.com.

Southwest Rheumatology Updates Office

Southwest Rheumatology is excited to announce its newly renovated and upgraded Riverview office at 11954 Boyette Rd. The space has been redesigned to promote a calm, therapeutic environment for patient care. It is also pleased to introduce its clinical team of registered nurses, Jennifer and Raquel, at both the Riverview and Sun City Center locations, who will be using their years of experience to provide outstanding infusion and outpatient rheumatology experi-

ences.

To schedule an appointment, call 672-2243. Visit swflrheum.com for more information.

Kenneth Schriver Joins Brandon Realty

Brandon Realty is proud to announce that Kenneth Schriver has joined its dedicated team of knowledgeable agents.

Brandon Realty is located at 211 N. Parsons Ave. and is an independently owned and operated affiliate of Weichert Real Estate Affiliates.

For more information, visit brandonrealtyinc.com or call 689-1500.

The Dog Patch Opens In Brandon

The Dog Patch is a 24/7 boutiquestyle doggie daycare (and cats too), boarding facility in the BrandonSouthShore area that also offers grooming services. Curbside pickup and drop-off plus wash n’ go options are also available with a pet shuttle for your convenience coming soon. The Dog Patch will ensure your fur babies are safe in their four large, indoor, climate-controlled daycare rooms, especially during the hot Florida days.

Each pet will be evaluated for compatibility to ensure they are in the best play group for their size and personality. Pet counselors and lodging techs have been trained through the International Boarding & Pet Services Association and they use best practices known to the industry leader. This training enhances their commitment to providing excellent pet care, peace of mind, trust and security.

The Dog Patch is located at 122 Linsley Ave. in Brandon and is open Monday to Friday from 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m., on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday by appointment. More information can be found at ww.thedog-patch.com, its Facebook page @thedogpatchfl or by calling 800-DOGG (3644).

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November 2020

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Local Insurance Agent Michele Bartock Makes Insurance Easy

By Amy Schechter

Navigating the qualifying individuals, confusing waters of including those over 65, Medicare and insurlasts from October 15 ance is stressful, and until December 7. Then, the consequences of Medicare Advantage poor choices can be open enrollment will costly. That’s where begin in early 2021, Michele Bartock, an where there will be other independent 2-15 and opportunities to sign up or 2-10 licensed insurchange your plan. Plus, if ance agent, can step you are turning 65, you in to help find the prodhave approximately a sixuct and price that are month window to sign up right for you. based on your birthday.

Bartock has been Confused yet? You still Michele Bartock, a licensed a Florida resident have not even examined insurance agent, with her mom, Ruth McKeith. since 1980 and has a plan. That’s where lived in the FishHawk area since 2005.

Bartock can help.

She has been helping local customers “I want to have customer service and make sound insurance decisions for the follow up with people. If you have a queslast 15 years. “When you turn 65, you are tion, we can set up a meeting at a time inundated with flyers and calls,” Bartock and a place convenient for you,” Bartock said. “People and businesses have your explained. information, but not always your best She can meet in her home office, in interests. I wanted to be an independent your home, in a public place for coffee or carrier, so I have access to the top insureven have a Zoom meeting or phone call, ance companies, but can tailor plans to if that is what’s most comfortable for you. meet the insurer’s needs.” Rather than go “If your current coverage isn’t workstraight to the bottom line like most insuring, then you can look for different coverance agencies, Bartock seeks to truly lisage; if you are brand new to this, we can ten to your unique situation and find a find a plan that fits your lifestyle,” said plan where the coverage and cost are Bartock. She mentioned how many right, even if that doesn’t mean going with clients travel across state lines regularly her. “I want to be there to be the person and may not have considered how their who will be very honest with my clients,” coverage could change, especially if they she added. become hurt or ill and then need to travel Medicare, Medigap and Medicare home.

Advantage can be confusing. The For more information or to set up a Medicare/Medigap annual enrollment meeting, call 767-2878 or reach out to period to sign up or change your plan for Bartock at mlbartock@zohomail.com.

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Page 23

Page 24

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 11

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

The Barn At Winthrop Will Turn Your Next Special Event Into Memories The Barn at parties, birthday Winthrop is a specelebrations and cial events venue fundraisers. that is both beautiWhen you ful and unique. It is book your event, a great place for you get a full-serany occasion, vice experience. whether it be a With the rental casual affair or an fee, you will over-the-top wedding. The Barn at Winthrop is conveniently located Barn at Winthrop in Riverview within the commu- The is a special events hall that is pernity of Winthrop in fect for your next event, whether it Riverview at 11349 is casual or sophisticated. Through iterations from hay barn Bloomingdale Ave. itstomany black box theatre to special The Barn at events hall, it provides the Winthrop is owned ambiance that would be great for any event. and operated by John Sullivan, the founder and developer receive of the community of Winthrop. It was a setup of tables and chairs as well as once a hay barn on a working dairy farm. breakdown. You can select from three When Sullivan purchased the land, it was outstanding caterers for your event. originally transformed into a black box These include Datz Restaurant Group, theatre. Now, The Barn at Winthrop is a Maverick Catering and All-In-One. great destination for your next event.

Vanessa Lackland with the Datz Sullivan said, “The love of the Barn Restaurant Group said, “The Barn at Theatre runs deep for the Sullivan fami- Winthrop is truly a unique find in ly. It is a story within itself.” Sullivan Riverview. It has a very modern farm added, “The story is all about the famifeel that would fit the dreams of anyone ly. That is why, during these difficult that aspires to be as classy and as times, we have lowered the prices so trendy as Chip and Joanna Gaines. the community can hold events at The Trust us when we say this is a must-see Barn at Winthrop.” spot.”

The space at The Barn at Winthrop Sullivan said, “The Barn at Winthrop includes access to a picturesque outturns your event into a memory.” door space, which can be used for The Barn at Winthrop can accomcocktail hours, wedding ceremonies, modate anywhere from 200 to 350 peophotos or outdoor dining. Inside, the ple, depending on the event. To learn stunning interior is the perfect space for more for your next event, please visit any event, including weddings, holiday www.winthropbarntheatre.com.

Hillsborough County To Reopen Nine Libraries At Limited Capacity Hillsborough County and curbside printing, will reopen nine of its scanning, faxing and public libraries at 25 percopying are still availcent capacity, which able at other library began on November 16. locations. In addition, Locally, this means that the Borrow by Mail Bloomingdale Regional service continues to Public Library located at offer a convenient, con1906 Bloomingdale Ave. tact-free home delivery in Valrico and the option for books, audioThe Bloomingdale Regional Public books, DVDs and SouthShore Regional Library located at 1906 Library located at 15816 music CDs. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico is one of nine libraries that will Beth Shields Way in The decision to reopen at 25 percent capacity on reopen certain libraries Ruskin are reopened.

Monday, November 16.

The libraries will be at 25 percent capacity open Monday to came after consulting Saturday from 10 a.m. to with health officials, 6 p.m. The libraries will emergency managers, have strict entry rules in library staff and place to ensure the safeHillsborough County ty and health of all visiofficials. tors and staff. These On September 1, include: visits will be lim1999, the Hillsborough ited to one hour, children County Public Library under the age of 17 Cooperative was must be accompanied by a parent, all formed. who enter must wear face masks that The Tampa-Hillsborough County cover both the mouth and nose, all visiPublic Library promotes lifelong learning, tors will receive a temperature check an informed citizenry, individual intellecbefore entering the building and visitors tual freedom, enhanced quality of life may not bring in food or drinks. The and broadened horizons for all residents libraries are not accepting donated books of Hillsborough County. at this time.

The Tampa-Hillsborough County Study rooms, meeting rooms, maker- Public Library THPL maintains a network spaces and recording studios will remain of neighborhood libraries with open closed. access, a community focus, responsive The library had developed a robust service hours, welcoming environments, online and virtual set of programs for broad and relevant materials in a variety children, teens and adults when it was of formats and highly qualified employforced to shut its doors back in March. ees.

Many of these programs will continue to For more information on the servicbe offered, including story times. es that you can get from your local Contact-free curbside hold pickups library, please visit www.hcplc.org.

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Page 25

Former Bloomingdale Football And College Teammates Have Success At The DI Level Left tackle Ethan Carde at Texas Tech and long snapper Justin Keijers at the University of Central Arkansas are having great success at the Division I college level. The former Bloomingdale Bulls came from humble beginnings, starting their college careers as teammates at Coffeyville Community College in Coffeyville, Kansas.

The former college roommates still root for each other. “Justin was my boy, he was always wanting to get better and have a good time,” said Carde.

“He is a special player because his mind is on the right path for the goals he’s trying to reach.”

“He was a great teammates,” said Keijers. “He’s a great kid, he brings you up, and you can have a full conversation with him and talk to him about anything and he won’t judge you. He’s a hard worker. When he gets on that field, he’s focused and you can’t joke around with him.”

Carde has always wanted to play football at the DI level, and at 6 ft. 8 in. and 315 pounds, he always had the potential. He earned an offer from

Ethan Carde lifts his teammate up after the offense scores a touchdown.

Texas Tech and has taken advantage of his opportunity, starting as the left tackle for the Red Raiders in the offensive-happy Big 12. “It was amazing,” said Carde. “I’ve always wanted to play on the big screen and I finally got to. It means a lot to me because all the hard work is starting to pay off, and my parents don’t have to pay for

Justin Keijers has been perfect on his snaps so far this season.

my college.”

Keijers started off playing multiple positions at Bloomingdale as a tight end, center and long snapper. Former Bloomingdale Head Coach Max Warner encouraged Keijers to pursue a college scholarship as a long snapper because he saw great potential in him. His only scholarship offer came

from Coffeyville, where he played for one season and got noticed by the University of Central Arkansas.

On his first snap at the junior college level, Keijers snapped the ball over the punter’s head. He did not let that deter him, however, as he had perfect snaps for the rest of the season. He felt that he needed that one bad snap to move on and get it over with. He later received a scholarship to play at Central Arkansas, where he hasn’t had a bad snap yet.

“My first time on the field I was nervous and I had butterflies in my stomach,” said Keijers. “A long snapper can’t mess up. You have one job and you cannot mess it up. That’s all that goes through my head when I go on the field.”

Both Carde and Keijers have dreams and aspirations of playing in the NFL one day. Their former high school coach, current Bloomingdale Head Coach Jake Coulson, believes that both players have a chance of doing that. “I think they both have the potential to play on Sunday,” said Coulson.

Page 26

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Clothes To Kids Looks To The Community For Support For Kids For Clothing

By Libby Hopkins

The mission of the car, ran into a local local nonprofit Clothes store and bought a To Kids is to provide purple coat in just the new and quality used right size. When she clothing to low-income dropped off the coat, or in-crisis school-age she was touched by children, free of the deep gratitude of charge. The organizathe little girl, who tion envisions a comlooked up at Marie munity in which every with her smiling big school-age child has brown eyes and quality clothing so that offered a huge hug. he or she may attend “This story stuck school with the confiwith both Marie and Clothes To Kids recently held their dence and selfTerry,” Jacobs said.

SHOEtober event and it was a huge success. esteem needed to “When Marie and achieve academic success.

Jode Eye, the other co-founder of the The group recently held its organization, sat at Jode’s kitchen table in ‘Shoetober’ event, and it was a huge suc- the spring of 2002, Marie told Jode about cess. this little girl and the purple coat. They “It was a neat initiative,” said Clothes decided they had to do something. They to Kids’ executive director, Jennifer had to do something about children who Jacobs. “Shoetober was a monthlong col- didn’t have the clothing they needed. The lection drive for new and gently used purple coat became a symbol to them shoes. Each year, Clothes To Kids proand was the inspiration and motivation vides more than 13,000 pairs of shoes to they needed to get this mission started. kids in our communities.”

With a purple coat and a kitchen table, Marie McClung, a co-founder, volunClothes To Kids was born.” teered in her sister Terry’s classroom on a Jacobs hopes the Riverview commuweekly basis back in the early 2000s. nity will help them bring clothes and Marie was familiar with all of the children shoes to the children and families who in the classroom and was always ready will need them in the upcoming holidays. to jump in and help with anything her sis“We will distribute more than 13,000 ter needed for her students. On a rare pairs of shoes this year, so it’s critical that cold Florida morning, Marie’s sister called our community knows that we need help her and said she had a little girl in her with them,” Jacobs said. classroom that would not be able to go Visit www.clothestokids.org or call outside for gym class without a jacket.

Jacobs at 616-6430. Clothes To Kids is She asked Marie if she would hurry to the located at 5011-H W. Hillsborough Ave. in store and buy a coat. Marie jumped in the Tampa.

BEAUTIFUL HOMES START WITH BEAUTIFUL FLOORS

Volume 15, Issue 11

November 2020

Page 27

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Magnolia House Becomes New Facility For Mary & Martha House In Southern Hillsborough

By Gwen Rollings

It was a commumany local businity celebration on nesses, including October 9 as the real estate, construcMary & Martha House tion, a Florida chapin Southern ter of a ladies’ Hillsborough County motorcycle club, welcomed community Wellspring Church partners to tour its and numerous indinew emergency shelviduals throughout ter, The Magnolia the Tampa Bay area, Some of the staff and volunteers of Mary expressed their comHouse. & Martha House celebrate the opening of Founded in 1982, mitment to Mary & their new emergency housing in the nonprofit, taxMartha House by Southern Hillsborough County. exempt Mary & Martha House has been presenting Herring with financial donahelping women and dependent children tions. Herring expressed her gratitude to find a way out of domestic violence, everyone who contributed, noting that homelessness and hopelessness. their generosity would assist with the Women throughout the decades have approximately $100,000 still needed to describe the Mary & Martha House as a furnish remaining rooms. beacon of light leading them to safety, The tour guides were obviously counseling, employment skill training and, proud as they led attendees through the most importantly, renewed hope for them- brand-new building which will house 54 selves and their children to obtain women and children for a few months at employment and move to permanent a time. The bedrooms are various sizes housing, which 92 percent achieve. and able to accommodate a single Laurie Herring, executive director of woman or woman with a baby, up to largMary & Martha House, said, “It just er rooms having enough beds for a breaks my heart that we have to have woman with several children. this facility. It is just so needed. There are Herring said, “We have a large just not enough rooms. All the shelters in kitchen with many refrigerators so each Hillsborough County are on overflow family can have their own set of cabinets already.” and their own set of refrigerators.”

Many of the board members present The celebration brought together a reiterated the need for this new facility. community of volunteers, church leaders Sandra Murman, Hillsborough County and friends from LeAnne’s Old Fashioned commissioner, said, “This is the only Cookies and many who have been place people, women and children can go blessed throughout the years by the work that have issues in South Hillsborough and dedication of Mary & Martha House.

County.”

Visit marymarthahouse.org. To After the comments from speakers, donate, please call 645-7874.

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Page 28

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 15, Issue 11

Page 29

Favorite Things Sweepstakes Offers Special Rolling Pin Early Bird Prize-Big Green Egg & More!!

By Marie Gilmore

to contest@ospreyobserver.com or fill out the entry form in this section and send in by mail, fax or email.

Last year, more than 1,500 local residents entered the campaign and ONE lucky winner walked away with a prize package worth more than $2,000. nefitted ations beis year, iz n a rg o d th and families Guide an six local cal Holiday Gift s are offered. r, a e y t s La ird prize Shop Lo Nothing from the ven more early b e Bundt

For six years, Osprey Observer Newspapers has been partnering with local retailers to publish the Shop Local Holiday Favorite Things Sweepstakes and gift guide, and this year promises to be one of the best yet! This year, we’ve partnered with our friends at Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium to offer an early bird prize of a Big Green Egg Grill, and our friends at McAuley Fine Jewelry are offering an exquisite diamond and gold necklace valued at more than $1,000. In addition, we have Essentials of Brandon,

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Cakes and even more wonderful holiday gifts from our local businesses.

Our campaign, the Osprey Observer, A Few of Our Favorite Things, is even more important this year when families are struggling during a global pandemic and need some joy.

So, from now until midDecember, we will be collecting Our Favorite Things all throughout the community and we will put them together in one giant gift basket that will be given out in a sweepstakes for our readers.

To enter, email ‘Sweepstakes’

Early bird prizes will include a Big Green Egg from Rolling Pin, tickets to Busch Gardens Christmas Town, a diamond necklace and more.

Good luck and thank you for shopping local and reading your Osprey Observer Community Newspaper!

Managing Editor Marie Gilmore

Page 30

Essentials Of Brandon Celebrates 10 Years Of Top Salon & Spa Services

By Kate Quesada

As 2020 draws to a close, what better gift could you think of for a special person in your life than the gift of relaxation? Essentials of Brandon, a full-service spa located off Bloomingdale Ave., offers a wide variety of services sure to please any one on your list.

Offering hair, nail and skin services as well as massages, Essentials of Brandon is one of the area’s most popular spas. “We are your one-stop shop for luxury services at an affordable price,” said Manager Candace Pacinello, who explained that the spa offers a variety of services in each department.

Hair services range from all over color to balayage and corrective color, and nail services include powder dip, acrylics, gel, basic and signature manicure and pedicure services.

“We offer Deep Tissue, Bamboo Fusion, Hot Stone and Relaxation massages, to name a few,” said Pacinello.

“Our estheticians offer facials that aid in acne-prone skin, geared towards age reversals, microdermabrasion, derma-

planing, and we offer lash services as well, including tinting and extensions.”

But what really sets Essentials of Brandon apart is the customer service offered.

“We are the place where everyone knows your name, our clients are always greeted by their first name when they come in,” said Pacinello.

The spa is also taking the department of health’s COVID-19 requirements very seriously; all clients are asked to fill out a COVID-19 addendum form. Face coverings are also required and workers sanitize after each client.

Essentials of Brandon is offering seasonal facials and pedicures, including an Illuminating Facial for $59.95 and a Peppermint Pedicure for $30 in December, and gift certificates of any value can be purchased at the store and online.

“We recently expanded our hair suite to accommodate five stylist chairs and have talented stylist to get everyone looking their best for the holiday season,” said Pacinello.

Essentials of Brandon is located at 3405 Brook Crossing Dr. and can be reached at 681-1110. To learn more, visit www.brandonessentials.com.

The Holidays Are A Time For The Gift Of Music At Music Showcase We’ve all got our own styles and can be quite different yet similar, and nowhere else is that emphasized more than in arts like music, with which we can express ourselves and entertain each other in continuously new ways. It’s truly a gift that keeps on giving, one Music Showcase is happy to offer.

Music Showcase, a family-owned business open since 1995, has all kinds of name-brand instruments for purchase, including brass instruments, drums, guitars, keyboards, orchestral instruments and woodwind instruments, plus various accessories. It is also a place of learning for all ages and experience levels, offering fun, dynamic lessons on playing instruments and singing in the style you want to achieve.

Music Showcase provides instrument rental as well, including a month-to-month rent-to-own program with rental payments going towards the purchase, and it has a repair service. Rented instruments can be delivered to your school or picked up.

With the Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA), it also has programs where kids can participate in musical theater, classes, workshops, and events, with many virtual and in-person options.

One of its in-person fall productions

By Taylor Wells

for ages first through sixth grade, Magic Tree House: A Ghost Tale for Mr. Dickens JR. is a holidaythemed story based on book #44 of Mary Pope Osborne’s Magic Tree House series, with registration spots still available and performances on Friday-Sunday, November 20-22 at Music Showcase.

Other performances at FAOPA to register your kids and get tickets for include Oh, What a Tangled Web, All Shook Up, Sound of Music and The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley Online Edition.

To help give parents more time to shop, on Saturday, December 5 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Music Showcase and FAOPA are holding their Santa’s Workshop, in which kids ages 5-12 will have dinner, snacks, play games, do crafts, watch a movie and more. The price is $25 and each additional child is $10. With all it has to offer, Music Showcase is the perfect place to get the gift of music for the holiday season.

Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. To learn more about Music Showcase and its gear, lessons and more, visit www.musicshowcaseonline.com. To learn more about FAOPA’s programs, events, tickets and prices, visit faopa.org.

Page 31

FBC Plant City Hosts Family-Friendly Holiday Lights Drive-In Event

By Kate Quesada

The First Baptist Church of Plant City (FBC) is hosting a family Christmas event perfect for 2020. The Light of Christmas is a drive-in Christmas event featuring Christmas songs, programmed lights and a message of hope.

According to FBC Director of Communications Jay Strike, the event will take place nightly from 6-10 p.m. beginning on Friday, December 4 and running through Saturday, January 2, 2021.

“This is something brand-new for us,” said Strike. “In the past, First Baptist Church has held large-scale Christmas productions with choir, orchestra, drama and multimedia elements. The need to socially distance limits our ability to prepare for that type of event and limits the number who would attend. That makes this type of event perfect for this ‘unique’ Christmas season.”

The free event is open to all members of the public.

“Our desire is to reach families looking for something to do this holiday season,” said Strike. “Many things are different due to the pandemic and this will give the opportunity to get out of the house and take part in a Christmas event.”

The church is working hard to make the event special and organizers are taking into consideration how hard this year has been for many people.

“We are being very intentionally to not just do ‘lights and music,’” said Strike.

“While there are familiar Christmas songs in this presentation, we are also offering a message of hope and encouragement. In the craziness that 2020 has brought all of us, that is going to be something different and appealing to those who attend. Great songs, great lights, great message, what’s not to love?”

First Baptist Church of Plant City is located at 3309 James L. Redman Pkwy. and can be reached at 752-4104. For more information, visit www.FBCPC.com/events.

Nothing Bundt Cakes Offers Perfect Holiday Treats For Every Season The holidays are a great time to treat yourself and your friends, and Nothing Bundt Cakes, located in Winthrop Town Centre, has the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

With 10 delicious flavors and options ranging from single serving Bundtinis to 10-inch cakes, Nothing Bundt Cakes has something for everyone, even those whose diet is restricted to glutenfree.

Owner Rob Shuffield, a Brandon High School graduate, grew up in the area and was thrilled to open the Winthrop location three years ago.

“I love the Brandon community and am proud to offer the quality and flavors of Nothing Bundt Cakes through our store here,” said Shuffield. “Winthrop has been such a great location for us and we are so thankful to John Sullivan for his vision for such a great community center.”

According to Shuffield, the most popular flavors at the location are chocolate chocolate chip and red velvet, but he encourages shoppers to look for seasonal choices pumpkin spice in November

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and peppermint chocolate chip in December.

Cakes and toppers are available for holiday parties in addition to birthdays, graduations and weddings.

Nothing Bundt Cakes offers online ordering and thirdparty delivery, making it easy for residents to enjoy while keeping safe.

As Nothing Bundt Cakes is very popular for gifts and holiday gatherings, Shuffield recommends residents to order online in advance.

The website also offers information on fundraising with Nothing Bundt Cakes and the opportunity to sign up for the store’s eClub, which offers a free birthday treat.

“Stop by and try our products,” said Shuffield. “Our general manager, Noelle, and the team would love to meet you.”

Nothing Bundt Cakes is located at 11238 Sullivan St. in Riverview and can be reached at 409-2394. To learn more or order online, visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com. Its hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Offers One-Stop Shop For Holiday Gifts & Meals If you have food lovers on your holiday list, look no further than Brandon’s own Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium for answers to all your needs.

Locally owned and operated by Chef Dave West, Rolling Pin has something to offer everyone with gifts, camps, classes and room to hold unique, private holiday get-togethers.

“We are stocked with 10,000-plus gifts for foodies and grillers with a huge range of kitchen and grilling tools,” said West.

Rolling Pin is also Brandon’s Platinum Dealer for Big Green Eggs and stocks Ooni pizza ovens, Green Mountain grills and Nora Fleming collectables.

For aspiring chefs or those who just love to eat, Rolling Pin also offers gift certificates for camps and classes throughout the year, not just during the busy holiday season.

“We have hands-on and demonstration-style cooking classes that are holiday-driven but also feature steakhouse themes and couples’ cooking, just to name a few,” said West.

Camps over winter break include a

By Kate Quesada

variety of specials for kids and tweens, and Santa is even stopping in for special breakfast and lunch events.

If you are looking for a place to host a private holiday event, act fast, because Rolling Pin’s calendar is filling up. The location can cater to small to medium-sized groups (10-36 people) with many party options.

“What makes us special is that we are locally owned and operated and have been serving Brandon for more than 25 years,” said West. “We have a knowledgeable staff and products that guests can touch before buying. Our classes and events also allow customers to use products themselves as well as see them in action.”

Rolling Pin is open seven days a week with extended hours in the 12 days prior to Christmas. It is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon and can be reached at 653-2418. Email West at dwest@rollingpinoline.com.

To learn more or see the calendar of classes and events, visit www.rollingpinonline.com.

County Fairgrounds Hosts Drive-Thru Wonderland Of Lights Experience If your family is looking for a unique way to get into the holiday spirit, look no further than the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds from Thursday, November 26 to Sunday, December 27.

The Dover location is hosting The Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village for the fifth year in a row.

According to Marketing Spokesperson Jillian Kaplan, the event is the Tampa area’s premier holiday-themed experience, offering an entirely no-contact option for those who choose to stay in their cars.

“Every week, Monday through Wednesday, guests are routed through over a mile of spectacular lights and holiday displays all from the safety of their vehicles,” said Kaplan. “Each Thursday through Sunday, along with the light show, enjoy the fun and entertainment of Santa’s Village, including an appearance

by Santa himself and a variety of enjoyable, family-friendly events.”

Throughout the month, additional experiences will be added, including Rulito’s Musical Comedy Extravaganza on opening night, November 26, and Nerdy Noah’s Comedy Show from Thursday-Sunday, December 10-13.

By Kate Quesada

There will also be special nights dedicated to nonprofits, like a food drive for United Food Bank of Plant City on Thursday, December 3—wherein, with a minimum contribution of 10 nonperishable food items, donors will receive $5 off a one-time drive-through experience—and on Thursday, December 10— in which donors will receive $5 off for a minimum contribution of a 10-pound unopened bag of dog or cat food.

Kaplan wants attendees to feel safe and healthy during the experience.

“We are following all the mandates set by the state/county and the CDC,” she explained. “Guests that go through the drive-through tour only, who buy their tickets online, have a completely no-contact experience. We will have hand sanitizing stations, social distancing reminders/signage and recommend masks at all times during their visit at Santa’s Village.”

Visit www.thewonderlandoflights.com for event details, attractions, pricing, discount opportunities, and COVID-19 safety information. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located just east of Brandon at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

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Page 33

Local Tree Lighting, Movies & More To Raise The Holiday Spirit Tree Lighting And Movie In Downtown Tampa

By Kate Quesada

located at 210 S. Bass Rd. in Kissimmee. To learn more, visit www.gktw.org.

nized snowy p.m. The event will allow visitors to play space, experience the extravagance and families will grandeur of the former 1891 hotel.

Welcome to the holidays! Get into the enjoy multiDuring the Victorian Christmas holiday spirit as residents kick off the seaple attracStroll, visitors will explore the museum son with the lighting of Tampa's official tions, includ- transformed by Christmas trees ranging tree in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

Walk Through ing Snow in height from a few inches to more The evening begins at 6 p.m. on Winthrop Flow than 14 feet, 40,000 lights and hunFriday, December 4, with the Tampa’s Gaylord Palms has Holiday Events.

Scheduled For Mountain, dreds of feet of garland. Decorations own Christmas band, Late Night Brass, December 4 where they can slide through factory include vintage fashions, antique toys, who are sure to put everyone in the holiconveyor belts that have been frozen locally sourced items and fanciful ornaMark your calendars! Winthrop Town day spirit. Tampa’s mayor will lead the solid and ride tubes down a thrilling ments. countdown to the Tree Lighting at approx- Centre in Riverview will host its annual plummet slide or hilly ice coaster.

Guests can enjoy live music on holiday kickoff event, ‘Walk Through imately 7:20 p.m.

All events are designed with social weekends from 1-3 p.m.

Winthrop,’ on Friday, December 4, startImmediately following the Tree distancing measures at the forefront.

The Museum Store offers a treasing around 7 p.m. The event will be in Lighting will be a holiday movie in the With 4.5 acres of airy indoor atriure trove of unique gifts, including elemultiple destinations with entertainment, park. ums decorated with millions of twinkling gant jewelry, artwork and beautiful holiAdmission is free. Blankets, low back tree lighting and a family-friendly movie. holiday lights, a towering Christmas day accessories so you can enjoy Winthrop Town Centre is located at chairs, coolers and dogs on leashes are tree in the St. Augustine atrium and shopping in a unique Victorian atmosWinthrop Town Centre Ave. in Riverview. welcome. Concessions available on-site. thousands of shimmering ornaments, phere. The Museum Store is open from To learn more about Winthrop, visit Visit Friends of Tampa Recreation, visitors can look forward to even more 10 a.m -5 p.m. daily. To learn more, www.winthropusa.com.

Inc. on Facebook for more festive experiences, including live pervisit www.plantmuseum.com. information. Want to be a formances on the St. Augustine Stage Local Christmas Toy Train Show sponsor? Contact Kitty Lyons, executive like the dazzling Cirque Dreams Busch Gardens Plans Christmas And Sale director of Friends of Tampa Recreation, Unwrapped, featuring stunning feats of Town by calling 966-5505 or emailing The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds showmanship performed onstage and Plans are underway for one of info@friendsoftamwill host a Christmas Toy Train in the air.

Tampa’s favorite holiday events, parec.org.

Show and Sale next month to get Due to limited capacity in accorChristmas Town at Busch Gardens. The residents into the holiday spirit. event, which includes fun, Give Kids The The event festive activities for the whole World Village will take place family, will be part of park Launches Sparkling on Saturday, admission from Saturday, New Holiday December 12 November 21 to Sunday, Tradition With Night and vendors January 3, 2021.

Of A Million Lights will be on Additional details will be hand selling For the first time made available online at model trains, ever, Give Kids The BuschGardens.com so various hobWorld Village in guests can start planning visbies, colKissimmee will host a its soon. lectibles and holiday celebration under die-cast cars. the stars—offering the Belmont’s First Annual public a rare glimpse into Give Kids The World is hosting a festive There will be Get into the holiday spirit at Christmas Town at Busch Winter Wonderland a running train the whimsical nonprofit fundraiser starting this month.

Gardens starting November 21.

Festival And Market layout for children to enjoy. resort that fulfills the wishes of critically ill dance with Marriott’s ‘Commitment to Extravaganza The show is open 9 a.m.-2 p.m. children from around the world. From Clean’ program, advance online reserAdmission is $5 adults and kids 12 and Come out to Belmont’s first annual Friday, November 13, through Sunday, vations are required for all ticketed under are free.

Credit cards are accepted.

Winter Wonderland in Ruskin on January 3, 2021, visitors can experience events. Tickets can be purchased at If you’re interested in becoming a Saturday, December 5, from 1-6 p.m. the childlike wonder of the Village during ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com and vendor, please contact Joe at 727-244This is a free public event, with proNight of a Million Lights, a walk-through, ILoveChristmasMoviesExperience.com. ceeds benefitting St. Jude Children’s 1341 or visit www.regalrailways.com. fully immersive, holiday light spectacular.

The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds Research Hospital. Multiple market Tickets are on sale now at RiverWalk Lighted Boat Parade Is vendors will be available to sell a variare located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in www.gktw.org/lights, enabling guests to Tampa Tradition Dover. ety of prodstroll among the brilliant lights and take The Downtown Gaylord Palms Adds ucts. part in a variety of fun Tampa Lighted Boat More To Annual Attendees and festive family activiParade will take place Christmas can hear ties in a safe, socially on Saturday, December Celebration music by distant manner.

19 through the Sounds Admission includes Gaylord Palms is Riverwalk area. Vessels Familiar DJ complimentary ice well-known for its annual must register online in while grabcream and hot cocoa, Christmas celebration advance. To register and bing a bite to as well as unlimited and this year the line up for more information, eat at one of access to the Village’s includes a new marquee visit www.thetampariverthe many wheelchair-accessible pop-up experience, ‘I walk.com. food trucks. Kids can visit Santa’s workrides and attractions. The event will run Love Christmas Movies™.’ The shop for reindeer rides and more. from 5-10 p.m. daily, with staggered entry Christmas event at Gaylord Palms runs Henry B. Plant Museum Hosts For more information, visit times to prevent crowding. Mask-wearing from Friday, November 13 through Victorian Christmas Stroll www.facebook.com/events/3579603688 will also be required for all guests.

Sunday, January 3, 2021.

Tampa’s Henry B. Plant Museum is 67975, call 954-300-8657 or 850-345Proceeds from the event will support Another brand-new experience this hosting a Victorian Christmas Stroll 1828, or email belmontwinterwonderGive Kids The World Village’s mission to year is the Snow Factory, which will daily from Saturday, November 21 to land@gmail.com. provide wish vacations for critically ill chiltransport guests to a winter wonderland Wednesday, December 23, 10 a.m.-5 dren and their families. The Village is filled with icy snow fun. In this mecha-

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Toys For Tots Continues To Make Holiday Dreams Come True Christmas morning should be a magical time for children, but there are some in our area who may need a helping-hand to make this come true. Thousands of children in need will get gifts from Santa this Christmas thanks to efforts of Toys For Tots.

Since 1947, Marine Corps Reserve Units nationwide have encouraged businesses to gather new, unwrapped toys for needy children. The local Toys For Tots places toy collection boxes in businesses and churches through the efforts of local coordinators Donald Pearson and Ann Hathaway of Pearson Capital, a Financial Investment Company in Apollo Beach.

This year will mark Pearson’s 16th year with the Toys for Tots, which has grown every year to become one of the largest toy collection efforts in Tampa Bay. This effort continues to grow each year. “Last year, through the generosity of more than 100 local businesses, the local Toys For Tots collected more than $9,000 in cash, 6,000 toys and over 100 bikes, which made up 60 percent of the Hillsborough County collection,” said Hathaway. “And this year the need is going to be overwhelming.”

Toy collection begins at the various businesses and locations from Monday, October 26- Saturday, December 12. This year, the program is looking for 3-4 more

By Kelly Valdes

volunteers to be “Box Captains” for the program.

Toys are to be new, unwrapped and in their original packaging. Hathaway explained that all new toys are welcome, but there is often a shortage of toys for children ages 0-2 yrs old as well as gifts for pre-teen boys ages 11-14. She also said that new bicycles are also in high demand each year.

Due to Covid, the collection party that is held at The Alley, located at 10221 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview is going to be different this year. The Marines from the 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion will be greeting the businesses that will be dropping of the toys at The Alley in a drive-thru format between 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, December 12.

Registration is now open for family toy requests until Sunday, November 15 at www.tampa-fl.toysfortots.org. To be a collection site, email Ann Hathaway at pearsoncapital7@gmail.com or call 645 6392. Some of the normal drop-off sites each year are Rachel’s Family Salon in Apollo Beach, The Alley and NV Salon in Riverview. Visit Toys for Tots on social media for a complete list of locations.

Email Hathaway at pearsoncapital7@gmail.com. For more information on the Toys for Tots program, visit www.toysfortots.org.

The Stano Foundation Sends Christmas In A Box To Our Troops

By Libby Hopkins

Each year, The Stano Foundation sends care packages to our troops all over the world.

These care packages offer them some love and comfort from home.

This year, the foundation wants to send our troops Christmas in a box.

“We send care packages out every quarter, but for the holiday care packages we wanted to be able to send our heroes overseas Christmas in a box,” said the foundation’s president, Paula Stano.

“These military members are not able to celebrate with their families or friends, so we wanted to let them know they were not forgotten and give them a reason to celebrate. For our holiday packages we are wrapping the inside with Christmas wrapping paper and adding in items like Santa hats, ornaments, hot chocolate, candy canes and Christmas lights. Each box will still have the normal 40 to 45 items we send and lots of snacks.”

The Stano Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was founded in June 2015 with the mission to support our Armed Forces, veterans and their families through program-based initiatives focused on enhancing their comfort and quality of life by providing them with a piece of home.

The COVID-19 pandemic hindered the foundation’s ability to fundraise in 2020.

“Since the pandemic, we have not been able to hold many of our fundraisers as most of them were in partnership with event companies held outside and with large crowds,” Stano said. “We have had to find other ways to raise funds, which has not been easy as everyone’s finances have been affected by COVID.” The Stano Foundation is looking for sponsors from the Brandon community to help it send Christmas in a box to our troops for the upcoming holidays.

“We need items like Santa hats, USB lights, small acrylic paint sets and normal snacks we send, like protein bars, beef jerky, microwaveable mac and cheese cups and cup-o-noodles,” Paula said.

“The community can assist by purchasing items from our Amazon Wish List, which can be found at https://stano.org/getinvolved/#supplylist. There is a ‘Supplies Needed’ section and a link to see our supply list on Amazon. We can also always use thank-you letters or cards, as these are an item our military members love to receive in their care packages.”

To learn more or to make a monetary donation, visit www.stano.org.

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Page 35

For King & Country Comes To Lakeland For Drive-In Tour One of the biggest names in Christian music, for KING & COUNTRY, announced a Christmas drive-in tour and included Silvermoon Drive-In, located in Lakeland, as a stop.

The band consists of two Australian brothers named Joel and Luke David Smallbone. The tour is titled A Drummer Boy Drive-In Live and will feature both Christmas and hit songs preformed by the band live. The concert at the Silvermoon Drive-in will take place on Friday, December 11, and tickets are available for purchase now, ranging from $75-350 before fees. Tickets are being sold by the car, not by the person, and up to six people are allowed in a vehicle.

Instead of assigning and purchasing a specific parking spot, attendees will select a zone in which their spot will be located in. The gates for the concert will open at 5 p.m. and the performance will begin at 7 p.m. It is recommended that attendees arrive early; this will allow time for them to be directed to their parking spot in the zone they purchased tickets.

Spots will be assigned depending on arrival time and cannot be requested.

Merchandise should be available to order for contactless delivery on the night of the show.

By Faith Miller

Bryan Scott, director of concerts and events for The JOY FM, described the event as, “An amazing night under the stars with the biggest name in Christian music celebrating the birth of our Savior.”

According to Scott, COVID-19 was one of the biggest inspirations for this drive-in tour. A national concert promotion company had pioneered the drive-in model so that concerts could still be performed while also following restrictions put in place by local governments. Another factor that Scott believed was a big part of it was people’s longing to get out of their homes and the longing for live concerts to return.

The show will feature a live performance from for KING & COUNTRY while attendants stay in and around their vehicles. Attendants are allowed to bring lawn chairs and sit outside their vehicles but are asked to keep social distancing in mind.

“Take the biggest name in Christian music and mix it with Christmas and you have a huge success,” said Scott.

For more information regarding the event along with ticket prices and purchases, visit https://florida.thejoyfm.com/events/boxoffice/for-king-and-country-drive-in-live/.

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Dancing For Donations Offers Affordable Lessons For All Ages And Skill Levels So many things in life happen as a result of some fortuitous event which changes everything.

Sara Battaglia began dancing at 8 years old, learning jazz, tap, lyrical and point, but her passion was ballet.

She trained with Sarasota Ballet and School of Russian Ballet and furthered her dance education at the University of South Florida.

Then, a hip injury brought Battaglia to a crossroads…a fortuitous event which led her to become the founder and director of Dancing for Donations (D4D).

Battaglia envisioned D4D as an allinclusive, nonprofit dance program with a mission to offer dance lessons sustained from community donations. Battaglia said, “Three years ago, we started very, super small. I never imagined it would grow to the extent that it has since then.”

There are several reasons which might explain the growth. Battaglia did her due diligence as director of D4D. She completed Exceptional Student Education courses, earned her Youth Protection Advocate in Dance® certification, took autism training and created a dance environment which is child-safe with all music, movement and costumes being ageappropriate.

D4D is also a Wingman for Dance Studio. Wingman is described as a one-

By Gwen Rollings

of-a-kind youth development program designed to help dance studio owners and teachers boost dancers’ confidence, encourage teamwork and leadership and promote an inclusive and supportive environment.

Battaglia reinforced that ‘all inclusive’ means all ages, skill levels and social skills are welcome.

Michelle Ebner said, “My 5-year-old daughter has been attending since August 2017. I wanted to put her in a dance class to help her focus. She loves it… We are so grateful that we learned about this wonderful program.” All teachers are CPR-certified and backgroundchecked.

Another reason for D4D popularity, according to Battaglia, was that “Dance programs are usually so expensive that many families cannot afford lessons.

D4D’s mission to be available and affordable extends to Tampa Bay HEAT at the Homeschool Resource Center, homeschool classes and in-person and virtual lessons as well.

It’s Kidz Time in Riverview recently donated a bus that will be used for summer camps, after-school pickups, special events and fundraisers—another fortuitous event.

Email dance4donations@gmail.com or visit dancing4donations.org.

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Page 36

Celebrate The Best Of The Season

Creating The Ultimate Charcuterie Board

Family Features

Family Features

If it seems like your grocery store’s apple section is more abundant than it has been in the past, you’d be correct. With new apple varieties coming onto the scene every few years, gone are the days of choosing between simply red or green.

Instead, choosing the right apple is similar to selecting the perfect wine.

Apples can range from tart to sugary sweet, so finding the right balance for your palate is key. Scent can also influence taste, especially when you have a balanced sweetness with an uplifting, fresh aroma.

When it comes to apples, a satisfying texture is as important as taste.

Consider an option like the Envy apple, which has been referred to as

“the ultimate apple experience” for its consistently balanced, delightful sweetness coupled with a crisp, elegant crunch. They are an easy snack when eaten fresh out of hand and are perfect for pairing with cheese, charcuterie boards, chocolate and nut butters.

Easy to spot with their crimson red skin over a golden background that practically glows, Envy apples are naturally descended from Braeburn and Royal Gala apple varieties, bred by farmers who use time-honored plant-breeding methods. Plus, the apples’ bright white flesh is naturally slow to brown when sliced, so they stay fresher longer.

For more information, including recipes and entertaining tips, visit EnvyApple.com.

Stick to the basics this holiday season to create a perfect charcuterie board: •The board: Select a board big enough for your gathering but not too big as you want there to be overlap and crowding.

•The cheeses: Select three different cheeses that complement the other items. Brie is a solid soft cheese choice while blue fills the need for a stronger, more pungent cheese. Try an aged cheddar or smoky gouda to round out the trio.

•The meats: Something salty with a little fat, like prosciutto or speck, provides a flavorful addition to the board.

•The produce: Choose fruits that not only taste great, but are also beautiful to display such as Envy apple slices, which stay whiter longer, making them ideal for any entertaining occasion. Plus their balanced sweetness pairs well with any item on the board.

•The crackers: Variety is key with crackers, and like the cheeses, three types is typically the magic formula. Think water crackers, multi-grain wafers and breadsticks.

•The snacks: Sweet and salty are king when it comes to snacks, so a mix of chocolate and nuts works for many charcuterie boards.

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A Kid’s Place Children Put Their Best Foot Forward In New Shoes For Back To School

By Libby Hopkins

This year, the first Foundation and day of school didn’t go Reed/TMS for thinking of as planned for many our children, bring them students. However, some joy and normalcy thanks to one local for the new school year.” celebrity philanthropist, Alstott values his relationa group of Brandonship with the organization area students had one which provides residential thing all kids look forservices to children from ward to, a new pair of birth to age 18, who have shoes. been removed from their Mike Alstott, President of the Mike homes due to abuse, Ever since The Alstott Family Foundation, purMike Alstott Family neglect or abandonment. chased shoes for 60 residents at Valrico’s A Kid’s Place for back to “I had a long relationship Foundation and A school this year.

Kid’s Place formed a with founder Dottie partnership, Alstott had been taking A Berger-McKinnon so when she started A Kid’s Place’s children on a back to school Kids Place, it was natural for my foundashopping spree. tion and I to support them,” Alstott said.

“Unfortunately due to the pandemic, Alstott and Lopez look forward to we weren’t able to do our regular back to doing more in the upcoming months for school shopping so, we had to get crethe kids at A Kid’s Place. “I believe there ative,” said Mike Alstott, President of the has been some talks about getting out Mike Alstott Family Foundation and forthere with some folks from Reed / TMS to mer Tampa Bay Buccaneer. “Thanks to help strengthen our bonds,” Alstott said. the staff at A Kid’s Place and the magic of “Nothing too crazy but maybe an ice the internet, we were still able to provide cream social and a fun filled afternoon. shoes to the children.” The students, a Just so we can put some faces to the group of 60, were able to pick out their names and vice versa.” own shoes which were shipped directly to To learn more about A Kid’s Place, A Kid’s Place. visit www.akidsplacetb.org or call 381“The kids absolutely loved the oppor- 3839. To learn more about the Mike tunity to be able to pick out new sneakers Alstott Family Foundation, visit of their choice for school,” Tamika Lopez www.mikealstottfamilyfoundation.org. A of A Kid’s Place said. “We are so incrediKid’s Place is located at 1715 Lithia bly grateful to the Mike Allston Family Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon.

Helping Others During The Holidays

Family Features

Giving during the holiday the mobile app or on your season can mean more than web browser to get the same gifts. It’s the time of year online shopping experience when giving back to your you’re accustomed to with the community can make an added benefit of donating a even bigger impact – espeportion of eligible purchases cially this year when so many to a charity of your choice. need a helping hand.

Spread information.

This holiday season, do People are more willing to your part to help deliver contribute to a cause when smiles to loved ones and they understand how they people in need. Reap the can help. Align with an organifeel-good rewards of helpzation or cause you care Photo Courtesy of Getty Images ing others with these ideas about and share details on how to make a difference. about how the community can help. Let Give time. One of the greatest donathe organization know you’re eager to tions an organization can receive is your generate awareness, and it can typically time. Volunteer roles can vary significantly find a way to put your skills to use. depending on the organization you Shop for a cause. One thing nonprofchoose but can leave you feeling like its often hear is people want to give, but you’ve contributed in a real and meaning- they don’t know what items will be most ful way. From sorting donated items, useful. You can remove the guesswork preparing and distributing warm meals or with a resource like AmazonSmile Charity wrapping gifts, organizations can almost Lists, which offer a convenient way to always use an extra set of hands during donate to your favorite causes. Donate the holidays. gently used items. This holiday season, Make your shopping count. To help you’ll probably add new clothes to your make the season even brighter, Amazon closet and new toys to the playroom, but is donating millions of items to more than others may not have presents to unwrap.

1,000 charities worldwide through product As you receive gifts this holiday, see what and monetary donations and is making it gently used toys, clothes and household easy for you to give back as well. When items could be donated to help others. shopping for holiday supplies or gifts for Find more information and resources family and friends, you can give back and at smile.amazon.com, and share how donate to your favorite charitable organiyou’re giving back by using zations. Simply activate AmazonSmile in #DeliveringSmiles on social media.

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Page 38

Holidays On Wheels To Deliver Food And Toys To Families In Need This holiday season, if you are or know someone who is without transportation and is homebound with children, Holidays On Wheels can help. The program, launched by Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger in partnership with Metropolitan Ministries, delivers a full holiday meal and toys to transportation-disadvantaged and homebound families with children this November and December.

Holidays On Wheels was developed to ensure that every family has a nutritious and joyous holiday celebration.

The program will use over 300 volunteers to deliver to families that are homebound or do not have access to a working or reliable vehicle. For those families that have their own transportation, Metropolitan Ministries will host their annual drive-through Holiday Tent.

“We are incredibly grateful to partner with the Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger to continue homebound deliveries this holiday season,” said Tim Marks, Metropolitan Ministries president and CEO. “We are preparing to serve thousands of families, and many do not have access to transportation. Together with the Tampa Bay Network the End Hunger, we can reach those facing immense hardship,” added Marks.

Registration for Holidays On Wheels

By Kathy L. Collins

is now open. Households that qualify include those with children under 18 years old who are not able to get a ride from household members or others for life-sustaining trips, such as medical, grocery, work, job-related training/education and other vital services. It also includes households led by an adult with a disability or illness with children. The head of the household must pass a background check and someone must be home to receive the delivery.

The deadline to register for Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 5 and Monday, December 7 for the winter holidays. Please visit www.networktoendhunger.org/holidays.

This program’s volunteers will pick up route sheets and special delivery items from the Metropolitan Ministry Holiday Tent pickup site and will use their own vehicles to deliver food and joy this holiday season.

If you are interested in helping to deliver meals and toys, please visit www.networktoendhunger.org/volunteer to create a volunteer account and sign up to deliver.

Donations are accepted at www.networktoendhunger.org to help support the Holidays On Wheels program. For more information, please call 344-5837.

37th Annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade Features Chili To-Go And More The Rotary Club of FishHawkRiverview is pleased to announce that the 37th annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade and Chili To-Go event will be held on Saturday, December 5.

The celebration will take place at the Riverview Civic Center starting at 5 p.m. in conjunction with other sites located along the Alafia River. First United Methodist Church of Riverview has agreed to be a viewing site this year, and the boat parade winners will be announced at River’s Edge Bar and Grill.

Last year, the event featured many decorated boats, chili cook-off contestants and refreshments. Children received the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa Claus, heard Christmas music and saw the bright holiday lights of the boats in the parade. More than 30 boats participated last year.

This year promises to be just as fun, with the added precautions that we need to take in our county due to the COVID19 pandemic.

For instance, Santa will be on a boat greeting everyone as the parade goes down the river, chili will be offered to-go— sponsored by the Flying Locksmiths—at

Staff Report

the two viewing sites for a donation of $5 and entertainment will take place outside at the Riverview Civic Center. The organizers hope to attract over 1,500 people to this annual Riverview tradition.

Since its inception, the Rotary Club of FishHawkRiverview has been involved in numerous service projects, including the College Scholarship Program ($58,000+), awarded to date to financially needy students at Riverview, Spoto and Newsome High Schools; the Alafia Lighted Boat Parade; High School Interact; Student Dictionary Distribution (over 9,000 dictionaries to elementary school children since program began); Rotary’s Camp Florida (camp for special needs children in Brandon); Group Study Exchange; Reading is Fundamental (more than 900 free books to Head Start students); S4TL (Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders); Sylvia Thomas Center; Brandon Outreach (over $10,000 given); ECHO; and local YMCAs (over $10,000 given). Club members have separately given through dues and donations over $100,000 in the past 15 years to Polio Plus and The Rotary Foundation.

For more information, email Boat Parade Chairperson Kim Tyson at hummingbird133@verizon.net.

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Page 39

Give The Gift Of Practicality

Holiday Presents Loved Ones Can Put To Work Family Features

Giving the perbattery-powered blower fect holiday gift to a to keep the yard, driveloved one can add way and other spaces unnecessary stress neat and tidy. and pressure, but Find more gift-giving you don’t have to inspiration at aceharddrive far and wide to ware.com. find presents your Cook Up a Crave-Worthy friends and family Gift members will love.

If you’re looking for a Some of the best unique gift for the grill Photo Courtesy of Getty Images master in your life, look gifts are practical, everyday options that you know will be no further than the Traeger Pro 575 put to good use.

Wood Pellet Grill, a pellet grill that helps Look no further than your local hardmake achieving wood-fired flavor easier. ware store. With 72 percent of United The enhanced WiFIRE technology allows States households within 15 minutes of you to monitor and adjust your grill anyan Ace Hardware, you can find a wide time, anywhere directly from an app. variety of gifts to put smiles on loved Getting that perfect flavor is easier with ones’ faces whether you shop convethis grill that starts quicker, heats up faster niently online or in person. As a one-stop and puts out better smoke quality with its shop for grills, power tools, home decor D2 drivetrain. and more, knowledgeable associates are Make Gift-Giving a Breeze ready to help you find the perfect gifts for For the person in your life who loves those on your list whether you’re looking taking care of the yard and other outdoor for big ticket items or one-of-a-kind stockspaces, give the gift that keeps on giving ing stuffers. by making cleanup a breeze with the For example, a new pellet grill may EGO Power+ 530 CFM Blower, a step up be the solution for the home chef who in power and convenience for the line of seems to have everything already, provid- cordless blowers. Inspired by advanced ing a simple way to prepare delicious aeronautics technology and equipped meals any day of the week. Or, if you’re with turbine fan engineering, this compact looking to help make outdoor cleanup a and lightweight blower can run for 75 cinch, consider an option like a cordless, minutes on a single charge.

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Open-Air Festivities Bring Safe Holiday Cheer At Busch Gardens Christmas Town

Staff Report

Wrap up the year with holiday cheer earlier than ever at Busch Gardens® Christmas Town™, the park’s award-winning holiday event. New this year, the event kicks off with a preview weekend with light displays and select entertainment elements on Saturday and Sunday, November 14 and 15. Christmas Town runs daily with park-wide festive fun from Friday, November 20 through Sunday, January 3, 2021.

To bring the merriment to life, Busch Gardens’ creative team has consulted with medical experts to offer a modified event with required reservations and limited capacity that celebrates the spirit of the season safely. This seasonal event features open-air entertainment and experiences as well as enhanced health, safety and sanitation measures, including temperature checks, face covering requirements and physical distancing.

Included in park admission, guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist, from millions of twinkling lights throughout the park’s 335 acres to physically distant holiday shows and breathtaking animal encounters.

A warm-weather winter wonderland awaits park guests with a variety of holiday programs offered throughout the

event. Guests are encouraged to check the park’s website before visiting to learn which programs are available each date.

New this year is a ‘Spark the Night’ Fireworks Show which gives guests several opportunities to enjoy festive bursts of Christmas colors as they cover the sky in a dazzling display. Fireworks are offered on select nights throughout the event at the Festival Field, offering plenty of space for guests to spread out and enjoy the sights.

For the first time ever, park guests can enjoy Busch Gardens’ longest-running holiday show, ‘Christmas on Ice,’ at a new outdoor location on the Festival Stage.

Other events include Elmo’s Christmas Wish, Three Kings Journey, Holly Jolly Express and physically distanced meet-and-greets with Santa, Rudolph, Sesame Street friends and other Christmas Town characters.

As guests dash through the night between iconic rollercoasters, they can explore the Christmas Town Village, with drinks and dishes from an all-new chef and mixologist-created holiday menu.

Visit www.ChristmasTown.com and follow Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Osprey Observer

Volume 17, Issue 11