Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop April 2021

Brandon/Winthrop 27-34

21

April 2021

Volume 16, Issue 4

Ph: 657-2418

CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS

LACE UP TO SUPPORT BLOOMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL WITH BULLS 5K

By Jan Owen

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ities have come to a screeching halt, so being able to continue with the 5K is big for the program.”

This year, due to school district COVID-19 protocols, the 5K had to be moved from Bloomingdale High School’s campus to the HillsborThe Running of the Bulls 5K will take place on Sunday, May 23 at 8 a.m. ough County Fairgrounds in Dover.

Bloomingdale’s Running of the Bulls 5K returns in May. The 5K is a local favorite One hundred percent of the profit benefits bringing in runners and walkers from all Bloomingdale students.

Kim Harris, a Brandon Running Associover the area, current students and BSHS ation member and BSHS alumnus (class alumni.

Local runner Heather Berry has many of 1990), has run the 5K every year and reasons for why she enjoys the Running is signed up again. “I love Running of the of the Bulls. “I enjoy participating in the Bulls because I’m giving back to my high Running of the Bulls because it gives me school. I have fun each year I’ve done it the opportunity to work on my person- because it’s like a mini runners’ reunion. I al running goals while running alongside see a lot of my friends out there—whether many of the cross country and track kids they are walking, running or volunteering I cheer on each week. And it’s always nice at it. Everyone has a blast out there.”

Made possible by local business sponto give back to the Rajun’ Bulls Marching Band that I marched with when I attend- sors, such as Gold Sponsors Acropolis Riverview and Heroes Paradise, registered ed Bloomingdale,” she said.

Berry is avid runner and a member of participants receive a Dri-FIT shirt and Brandon Running Association, a mom of finishers receive medals. The race is chipa current Bloomingdale track and cross timed by FITniche Events and age group country runner and a former flute player winners will receive awards.

The event will take place on Sunday, May in the band at Bloomingdale (class of ’96).

The Running of the Bulls 5K is spon- 23 at 8 a.m. at the Hillsborough County sored by the Bloomingdale Band Boosters. Fairgrounds located at 215 Sydney WashBloomingdale’s director of bands, Jon Sev- er Rd. in Dover. For any questions, email Reger, said the 5K provides invaluable support BloomingdaleBulls5k@gmail.com. istration is $30. To register, visit https:// for the band, this year more than ever.

“Funding for school programs is always a fitniche.com/events/ and scroll to the May challenge. This year, our fundraising activ- 23 date.

WESTFIELD BRANDON WILL DONATE UP TO $20,000 TO CHARITY WITH DINING FOR A CAUSE

By Tatiana Ortiz

Westfield Brandon the proceeds of Dining launched Dining For For A Cause.

A Cause on April 1, a “This is a great opporcharitable rewards protunity for the commugram for individuals ornity to change the lives dering takeout, getting of critically ill children their food delivered in Tampa Bay,” Andrews or dining in at any of said. “We are truly the five participating grateful to Westfield restaurants where 10 Brandon and the particpercent of their receipt ipating restaurants of amount is donated to Dining For A Cause,” she local charities. Those added. interested can upload Make-A-Wish Souththeir receipts from the ern Florida has grantrestaurants, which are ed more than 12,000 The Cheesecake Factolife-changing wishes ry, Red Robin, Bahama Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida is par- since 1983 for children Breeze, Panera Bread ticipating in Westfield Brandon’s Dining who have critical illFor A Cause program. and P.F. Chang’s. The nesses. program runs through Friday, April 30.

For more information, visit www.westThe nonprofit charities include Make- field.com/brandon/event-detail/DiningA-Wish® Southern Florida, Valor Service For-A-Cause.

Dogs, Children’s Cancer Center and Hillsborough Education Foundation. Each nonprofit will receive up to $5,000 and a total of up to $20,000. Once a receipt gets submitted, Westfield registers that individual for an opportunity to win a $200 dining gift card.

“The COVID-19 pandemic hit the hospitality industry and nonprofit organizations particularly hard, and Dining For A Cause program aims to help these groups by encouraging guests to dine at our restaurants as well as give back to the organizations making a difference in our community,” said Dawn Arvidson, marketing director at Westfield Brandon.

To add, Dining For A Cause also ties into Westfield’s ongoing initiative called #WestFieldCares, which became established in March 2020. The genesis behind it would be to assist the most vulnerable populations impacted by COVID-19. This initiative includes making in-kind and monetary donations to local organizations that serve groups such as economically disadvantaged families, homelessMEALS ON WHEELS .............................PG 3 ness and much more.

Lisa Andrews, regional director for PHDERMATOLOGY ................................ PG 4 Tampa Bay at Make-A-Wish Southern EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 25-26 Florida, shared how it will benefit from SUMMER CAMPS...................... PGS 27-34

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27-34

05/01/2021

Summer camps offer many options to keep kids active and engaged. Summer camps provide kids with enrichment, educatioin and entertainment. Check out the Summer Camp Guide special section.

Page 2

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

MEALS ON WHEELS IS SEEKING VOLUNTEERS IN TAMPA

By Samantha Trezevant

to 125 volunteers serving to help deliver meals to children that are not able to access meal distribution sites throughout the county and/or kids that have difficulty accessing food pantries.

“My kids love the different types of food MOW4Kids brings,” said Bianca, MOW4Kids head of household. “The amount of food provided is always enough to get us by for that week and every single item is put to use. I also love the fruits and vegetables I receive—they are always so Volunteers packing Meals on Wheels boxes. fresh. You provide my kids the exMeals on Wheels has been providing a act nutrients they need. I am renew service to Hillsborough, Pasco and Pi- lieved I don’t have to worry how my family nellas Counties for a little over a year now. will eat this week or next because I know This amazing program runs through the MOW4Kids will be here and whatever they Tampa Network to End Hunger; Meals on bring will be enough for my family.”

Wheels for Kids (MOW4Kids) specializes There are many ways to support Meals on in providing lunches to children who are Wheels. Volunteers are needed in order to learning remotely and run the risk of going serve the community. Background-checked hungry. The organization has served over volunteers drive their own vehicles to dehalf a million meals, and in order to contin- liver shelf-stable boxes of food and cold ue doing so, volunteers are needed. meal packs to children and families. DelivMOW4Kids is an innovative program ery begins at 10 a.m. and routes take about that launched as a result of school closures 60 minutes to complete. You can sign up due to the pandemic. The program seeks to to volunteer at www.networktoendhunger. serve any child and their families who may org/volunteer. need assistance, particularly the ones that If you are unable to volunteer, you can rely on the school to receive their breakfast still help support MOW4Kids. The Tampa and lunches through the National School Network to End Hunger is currently acLunch program. cepting donations at www.networktoendThe idea came to be when the pandemic hunger.org. A donation of just $20 will prostruck as the need for programs like this vide a week of Meals on Wheels for Kids were vital to getting children fed. So many deliveries to children in need. For additionhouseholds could not access grab-and-go al information, please call the network at school distribution meal sites due to no ac- 344-5837. To receive free meals delivered cess to a vehicle, unreliable transportation, to your home, visit https://networktoendnot being available to get to a pickup site hunger.org/mow4kidstampabay/ or call in time, a disability and more. This has led 344-5837.

LIVE BRIGHT SPRING SALES EVENT

Page 3

TAMPA YMCA PARTNERS WITH AMERICAN RED CROSS FOR LIFEGUARD CERTIFICATION COURSES

Staff Report

This lifeguarding course at the Tampa Y is available for individuals 15 years and older, who will be required to complete a 300-yard swim, 2 minutes of treading water with no hands and diving 9 feet to retrieve a 10-pound brick on the first day of class. Upon successful completion, the lifeguard certification is valid for two years.

“The American Red Cross is grateful for the opportunity to expand our lifesaving work with the Tampa YMCA,” said Aquatic and The Tampa YMCA is now offering American Red Cross Public Safety Specialist Patrick Lifeguard Certification Courses, which will run through Beason. “Water safety and resusemergency drills like this one at the Campo YMCA. citation are important skill sets to learn, especially in Tampa Bay, The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is teaming up with the American Red Cross to where we are surrounded by water.”

The cost for the lifeguarding course is help save lives. Eleven Tampa YMCA family centers, including those in the Brandon $165 for YMCA members and $225 for area, are now offering American Red Cross nonmembers. Spots are limited, so register today at www.tampaymca.org/programs/ Lifeguard Certification Courses.

The lifeguarding courses provide par- swim-programs/lifeguard-certification.

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is ticipants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic a cause-driven four-star charity, strengthemergencies and to provide care for breath- ening Hillsborough and East Pasco coming and cardiac emergencies as well as oth- munities for 132 years through youth development, healthy living and social reer injuries and illnesses.

“The Tampa YMCA is excited to collabo- sponsibility. Across the association, 18 farate with the American Red Cross to add cilities engage nearly 224,000 men, women these vital courses to the list of programs and children—regardless of age, income or we offer to ensure the safety of the commu- background—to nurture the potential of nity,” said Tampa YMCA Aquatics Executive children and teens, improve our commuAmanda Walker. “As a part of the Tampa nity’s health and well-being and provide YMCA’s drowning prevention programs, opportunities to give back and support offering these lifesaving courses to the neighbors. The Tampa Y has long-standing communities we serve is one more step in relationships and a physical presence not reaching our goal of helping Tampa Bay res- just to promise, but to deliver lasting peridents be as safe as possible in and around sonal and social change. Visit www.tampaymca.org for more information. the water.”

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

PHDERMATOLOGY OFFERS MORE THAN JUST YOUR REGULAR DERMATOLOGICAL NEEDS

Dog Daycare • Training • Spa

By Michelle Caceres

Patient care is at the center of get it checked before it gets worse,” she PHDermatology, which offers medical, said. “Most skin cancers are treatable if cosmetic and surgical dermatology for caught at an early stage.” patients of all ages. Its knowledgeable, The Brandon office of PHDermatology well-trained medical professionals guide is also home to fellowship-trained Mohs their patients m i c ro g ra p h i c through the surgeons, who dermatologican treat skin cal treatment cancer. experience, PHDermaensuring tology also ofthey have an fers the most in-depth uncutting-edge derstanding cosmetic derof their skin matological condition and options (from treatment opinjectables to tions. laser treatTr e a t m e n t ments) to The staff at PHDermatology is ready to treat options are help patients patients’ skin care needs. available for achieve their patients with acne, athlete’s foot, ecze- aesthetic goals safely. ma, hyperpigmentation, psoriasis, rosaLocated at 621 Medical Care Dr. in cea, skin tags, warts and more.

Brandon, PHDermatology is open MonThe practice also offers photody- day-Thursday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The namic light therapy (PDT) to help treat practice accepts most major commerpre-cancers of the skin. The treatment cial insurance plans, including Medicare, includes applying a topical drug to the and is currently accepting new patients. area, which binds to the rapidly growing Whether the patient is new or escells of the pre-cancer and makes the tablished, a patient seeking medical or skin sensitive to light. After the solution cosmetic dermatology, the same great absorbs into the skin, the dermatologist service will be provided. then uses a strong blue or red light to “Every patient benefits from our paactivate the chemical, starving the cells tient-first experience, our exceptional of oxygen and killing the lesion. group of board-certified providers and Erica Underwood, APRN, DCNP of our accessibility, with same-day, nextPHDermatology said early detection is day appointments available,” said Unkey when it comes to skin cancer. “If derwood. you have a new lesion that looks difFor more information about PHDerferent than all the rest or a nonhealing matology, visit www.phdermatology. wound, it’s so important to come in and com.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

PLANT CITY HOSTS MARKETS AT LAST FRIDAY MONTHLY EVENTS

FWC SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT ON SALTWATER FISHING RESTRICTIONS

By Faith Miller

Plant City Main always something Street hosts a monthly new to try out ‘Last Friday’ event, ineach month. An viting families to enjoy example would a variety of food trucks be during a preand vendors. vious event when The event includes an the theme was average of 20-26 venPokémon and a dors along with eight vendor created an to nine food trucks each “edible Pikachu month. The vendors character out of range from homemade peeps.” desserts, boutique “Each month, I apparel, cotton cantry to support vendy, fresh flowers, face dors that I didn’t painting, etc. The event get to support in is located in McCall the month before,” Park at 100 N. Collins said Rumbarger. “I St. in downtown Plant do like being surCity. prised each month The event runs on with how creative the last Friday of each the vendors get month, January through with our theme.”

October. Each event has If you’re interits own theme particu- Examples of the variety of food and merchan- ested in becoming lar to that date. The list dise available to attendees at Last Friday event a vendor, applicain downtown Plant City. for upcoming themes tions are available are ‘Schools Out for Summer,’ ‘Dog Days through the Plant City Main Street webof Summer,’ ‘Harry Potter’s Birthday,’ ‘Su- site. The application fee is $15 and nonreper Heroes,’ ‘Fall Festival’ and ‘Halloween.’ fundable. If approved, there is a fee of $60 The event times are from 5-9 p.m. and the vendor is given a 10 x 10 ft. space There is an average of 2,500-5,000 res- to set up within. Vendors are asked to get idents attending the event each month, supplies unloaded from vehicles between according to Plant City Main Street Exec- 3:30-3:45 p.m. and are asked to remove utive Director Jerilyn Rumbarger. The at- their vehicles from the site beginning at mosphere of the event is described as one 4 p.m. that is enjoyable for all ages.

For more information regarding ap“We have worked really hard over the plying to be a vendor, please visit www. last few years to make this event unique plantcitymainstreet.org. More information each month,” Rumbarger said. on the event is also available through its Due to the variety of vendors, there is Facebook page, ‘Plant City Main Street.’

Page 5

By Brad Stager

Some of the most popshe wrote in an email. ular fish to catch and eat Implementing a along the Southwest Florc atc h - a n d - re l e a s e ida coast may soon be policy is part of back on the outdoor living FWC’s response to menu. the risk that the fish The Florida Fish and species were facing Wildlife Conservation due to the presence Commission (FWC) wants of red tide from late to hear from fishing en2017 through early thusiasts about the next 2019 that affected steps in managing snook, Southwest Florida’s redfish and spotted seGulf Coast. State ofatrout, which are currentficials enacted the ly fished legally only on a restrictions as a way catch-and-release basis.

Some of the favorite species for saltwa- to help regrow the The restrictions extend ter fishing are currently protected by a species’ populations from the Hernando/Pas- catch-and-release policy in Southwest and fulfill its mission co County line south to statement of “ManFlorida.

Gordon Pass in Collier County and affect aging fish and wildlife resources for their fishing in state and federal coastal water long-term well-being and the benefit of areas through Monday, May 31. people.”

As the FWC looks beyond the expiration Red tides develop from large concenof the catch-and-release measures, it has trations of algae that can discolor water been holding workshops in communities to a reddish hue. The algae are harmful affected by them to find out from anglers to marine life and can cause problems for how the fish are doing and to solicit ideas people who inhale airborne organisms or about how to protect them from excessive eat contaminated seafood. depopulation. FWC’s Southwest Region The workshop for residents of the Tampublic information director, Melody Kil- pa Bay area and points north was held onborn, said the input is an important part line on April 8. This and other workshops of the decision-making process. have been recorded and made available “Public comments provided during the for viewing online for people who cannot comment period will be used to help de- attend the live webinars. termine the future short-term manageYou can find links to live virtual workment of redfish, snook and spotted se- shops, recorded workshops and an online atrout in Southwest Florida immediately comment form at myfwc.com. You can following the expiration of the fisheries also email comments to Marine@MyFWC. closure FWC executive order on May 31,” com or call 850-487-0554.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

GRANT PROGRAM PRESERVES HISTORY AND PROMOTES ECONOMY

By Brad Stager

downtown historic district.

Heritage tourism projects that promote authentic experiences of historical narratives and artifacts are also supported, such as those awarded to the American Victory Ship and Museum in Tampa to improve guest facilities and develop special programming that allow visitors to relive history aboard the SS American Victory. The grants have also been awarded to supHillsborough County is accepting applications for Historic port conferences and events that Preservation Challenge grant projects that promote interest in the history and culture of the local area. The American are open to the public as well as walking tours that teach about an Victory Ship and Museum in Tampa has received such area’s culture and history. Heritage grants to improve guest facilities and develop special programming. tourism grants are only awarded to nonprofit organizations.

Residents interested in preserving local Preserving and promoting local history history can find support for their ideas through Historic Preservation Challenge can have a positive economic benefit, acgrants awarded by the Hillsborough Coun- cording to Rebecca Hessinger, who coordity Department of Economic Development. nates the grant program in her role as an That support comes in the form of economic development manager.

“Historic Preservation and Heritage matching dollars from the county as reimbursement for expenditures incurred in Tourism projects are what create a special completing approved projects. A maximum “sense of place” in Hillsborough County. We are very blessed in this county to have mulaward of $250,000 is available.

Projects that can be considered for a tiple historic districts and one of the only grant include those that rehabilitate or two National Historic Landmark Districts restore structures of historical signifi- in the State of Florida. It is what makes us cance, provide compatible additions to ‘special’ and it attracts thousands of visihistoric properties or improve historic tors each year. That is really important to sites or grounds. Grants are to be used for our local economy,” she wrote in an email.

The grant application process is conincome-producing properties and may not be used for residential projects. Private in- ducted online and 5 p.m. on Friday, May 7 dividuals and entities as well as nonprofit is the deadline to submit a project application. organizations are eligible to apply.

Complete information about the Historic An example of an award that served a practical as well as a cultural purpose is a Preservation Challenge Grant is available $6,000 grant that helped pay for termite at HCFLGov.net/HPCG, or contact Hessingremediation of four buildings in Plant City’s er at 272-5909.

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Volume 16, Issue 4

ECHO ALLOWING MORE EMERGENCY VISITS FOR FAMILIES IN NEED THIS YEAR

By Lily Belcher families to use ECHO’s services every four months if necessary.

“We’ve seen how effective it is to have people on staff that all they’re doing full-time is helping people get back to work or helping people navigate through the very complex system that is social services,” explained Saunders.

The expansion, however, would not be possible without the A mom and her son receive emergency donations from ECHO. generous support of the The Emergency Care Health Organicommunity. While many zation (ECHO) is opening its doors for families suffered from unemployment families in need more often this year, and financial struggles in 2020 due allowing families to pick up emergency to quarantine during the coronavirus, food and clothing three times a year, as ECHO received an abundance of donaopposed to two times. ECHO has also tions and was able to pass out food and abolished the four-visit limit for families supplies as soon as it came in. ECHO that use its services. was able to donate the surplus of food “Our goal is really to get to the root and clothing to other nonprofits, such as of the hunger and really help somebody Manna on Wheels, Landmark Ministries get into a place in their lives where they and Seeds of Hope. can provide for themselves. In order to ECHO accepts clothing and food donado that, it is just advantageous for them tions year-round and is currently in need and for us that we can see them more of gently used children shoes and men’s than twice a year,” said Executive Direc- clothing, specifically small and medium tor Eleanor Saunders. sizes. Members of the community can ECHO has been serving Brandon fam- make monetary donations online to help ilies in need since 1987 by distributing ECHO if they do not have items to give. food and clothing donated by the comTo make monetary donations, visit munity. Before the expansion, families echofl.kindful.com. For more informacould make emergency visits six months tion, contact the Brandon location at apart, but the new policy and addition 685-0935 or the Riverview location at of two full-time employees has allowed 540-9880 or visit echofl.org.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

Page 7

COUNTY STAFF FILL NEED WITH ADDISON FOUNDATION EXTENDS LOVE NEW BICYCLE RECYCLING PROGRAM

By Bob Zoellner

Bicycles that are dropped off at collection centers, including the South County Community Collection Center in Gibsonton, will all get the once over and turned into good, solid bikes for needy children.

Two Hillsborough County Solid Waste employees saw a fair amount of bicycles come through their facility at the Northwest Community Collection Center (NCCC) in Tampa, with metal parts getting recycled and the rest getting trashed. For Kenneth Walker of Tampa, a transfer equipment operator, and Ronald Milligan, also of Tampa, an equipment operator, there had to be a better use for these bikes, especially ones that still had life left in them.

They spoke to their managers about rescuing these bicycles from destruction. The idea went up the chain of command to the department director, who approved the idea. Now, after fixing up these bikes as needed, they are donated to Hillsborough County Children’s Services for distribution. This is a change from the norm, as employees and users of the county’s services are not allowed to scavenge or salvage items brought

for disposal, said Jason Bishop, operations superintendent at the Northwest facility.

“We’re very proud that they took the initiative,” Bishop added. “This is a winwin scenario. A little kid gets a bike and we take stuff out of the landfill. It’s definitely a win-win.”

Bicycles that are dropped off at the Northwest Community Collection Center in Tampa, the Alderman Ford Community Collection Center in Plant City, the South County Community Collection Center in Gibsonton and the Hillsborough Heights Community Collection Center in Seffner will all get the once over and turned into good, solid bikes for needy children.

Employees do the refurbishing at the NCCC, sometimes paying for parts or using items off of other bicycles. They also repair brakes, tires, tubes and pedals, as well as swapping out seats as needed.

Once ready, the bikes are stored at the Northwest facility, and eventually passed on to Children’s Services to be distributed to those in need. In the future, other departments may also be recipients of some bikes, according to Jose Patino, a media relations strategist for the county.

Because of its success, the county is looking into other items for potential rescuing and repurposing too. Updates can be found at https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/government/departments/solid-waste.

AND SUPPORT TO FAMILIES DEALING WITH LOSS

By Hayley Fedor Grounded in compassion and reinforced provide support with grief counseling and by kindness, Addison Foundation offers a provide an outlet to families that have sufplace to find love and support for those in fered the loss of their baby,” said Springs. the community impacted by pregnancy loss Springs and the staff at Addison Founand stillbirths. dation persistently work to find counseling On December 30, 2019, Hope Springs methods that best help each individual on a decided to create Addipersonal level, expressson Foundation in honing understanding for or of her daughter, Admothers, fathers, sibdison Marie, who sadly lings, friends and even passed during preggrandparents through nancy, before making their experience of losher beautiful entrance ing a baby. into the world. Prior “We want to show to the creation of the them that we underfoundation, Springs stand, we have been worked with a similar there and we want organization supportto show compassion, ing families through care and support,” said loss; however, she truSprings. ly desired to forge her With the goal of own path and begin a Addison Foundation provides a safe space providing relief, Addinonprofit that would for individuals dealing with pregnancy loss son Foundation hosts allow her to serve the and stillbirths to receive support and experi- events to give back ence compassion. community more opento those in need. Each ly and build a foundation more personal to year, the foundation participates in Brandon her.

Regional Hospital’s annual Remembrance “I decided to start Addison Foundation on Ceremony in observation of Pregnancy and the basis that we can start small and work Infant Loss Awareness Day. Currently, in up to grief counseling and then provide help precaution of the pandemic, events do not to others,” said Springs. take place in person, but are still being held Through Addison Foundation, families through other platforms. are supported not only emotionally but also In addition, Addison Foundation provides materially with gift baskets. The staff at encouragement and support through its Addison Foundation know that managing website, which features a blog and highloss is different for all members of the fam- lights fundraisers going on throughout the ily, and in light of this, gift baskets include year. items such as spa accessories for moms and To explore volunteering opportunities and dads, coloring books for children and gift find out more information about Addison cards for food.

Foundation, visit addisonfoundation.com or “Our overall goal for the foundation is to call 400-0701.

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Page 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

WINTHROP ARTS COLLABORATES WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF HILLSBOROUGH AND WOMEN BUILD

By Kathy L. Collins On March 12, Winparticipating Women throp Arts teamed up Builders to decorate a with a Habitat for Hustud that will be used manity of Hillsborough in the internal framing County, Inc. (Habitat of our 2021 Women for Humanity) WomBuild homes. I envision en Build team led by the bones of this new Chrissy Nieves to paint home awash in vibrant studs which will form colors imbued with the structure of a new the blessings, love and home. The home, one hope for a prosperous of over 30 homes befuture that we all deing built this year by sire for the new homeHabitat for Humaniowner.” ty, will be located in The home that a new neighborhood Nieves’ team, known Carolina Kamen and her son, Gabe, worked in Temple Terrace on on painting studs for a Habitat for Human- as Stud Finders, is Sweet Daisy Ln. working on is for ity of Hillsborough County, Inc. Women Women Build is a Build home at the Winthrop Arts Art Facto- Shalonda Granger and Habitat for Humanity ry. Kamen is a member of the Women Build her twin daughters, team known as Stud Finders. initiative that focuses A’Lana and Giselle. on the issues women face in gaining access Nieves said, “We wanted to work with to affordable housing. According to Melis- Winthrop Arts to create something special sa Crowther, vice president of resource for this new home.” Nieves added, “I want development for Habitat for Humanity, the community to know that these homes “Each year women from all backgrounds are not free. The families pay market valcome together to help a single mother in ue, and they are a part of the construction Hillsborough County realize her dream of effort.” homeownership. Around the world, and in Habitat for Humanity provides individuour own community, women are more like- als and families who make between 30-80 ly to live in substandard and poverty condi- percent of the median income for Hillsbortions. This is especially true of women who ough County an opportunity to become have children.” homeowners with affordable mortgages.

Crowther said, “Stud signing is a tradiA Women Build team is made up of at tion of most Habitats. When volunteers least 70 percent women. If you would like help us internally frame a home, we invite to put a team together, please contact them to sign the studs for the family who Crowther at mcrowther@habitathillsborwill make this their forever home. Volun- ough.org. For more information, please visteers leave special messages of love and en- it www.habitathillsborough.org. For more couragement on the studs. We decided to information on Winthrop Arts, please visit take this a step further by asking all of our www.winthroparts.org.

Volume 16, Issue 4

THE BRANDON REGIONAL LIBRARY HAS OFFICIALLY REOPENED

By Kathy L. Collins Hillsborough Library proCounty is systemgrams, including atically reopening story times, will libraries to serve continue virtually. the public. LocalCantrell said, “The ly, the Brandon library has always Regional Library, offered virtual conlocated at 619 tent. Digital magVonderburg Dr. azines, e-books, in Brandon, redownloadable opened on April 5. Hillsborough County is reopening select libraries audiobooks and to operate at 25 percent capacity. As of April 5, According to streaming movthe Brandon Regional Library is among the list of Chely Cantrell, ies have steadily reopened libraries.

Library Brand Ingrown in popularnovation officer, “The library system has ity, and last year was a record-setting been selecting locations based on geo- year for digital borrowing. The only sergraphic locations in our reopening plan. vice we are offering differently is proThe Brandon Regional Library was se- gramming. The library’s programs are lected at this time geographically as we currently being offered live and virtual continue to open additional locations at through www.HCPLC.org/Events. The li25 percent capacity.” brary also offers on-demand recordings Selected spaces within the reopened through the library’s YouTube channel.” libraries will operate at 25 percent caIn addition, the library is offering Wipacity. The buildings will be open to the Fi hotspots. Hotspots can be checked public Monday through Saturday from out at any library location, but they are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. With the reopenings, housed at eight locations, including the curbside services at these locations will Seffner-Mango Branch Library. You must be discontinued. However, curbside ser- be 17 years and older and have an adult vices will continue at the buildings not resident library card. The devices can be yet open to the public. checked out for 14 days.

Library Services has taken numerous Those who want to record their adsteps to help ensure the safety of visi- ventures can also check out GoPro Hero tors. These include visits being limited 7 from select libraries including the to one hour, requiring children under the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library. age of 17 to be accompanied by a par- GoPros can be checked out for up to 14 ent, requiring face coverings and social days and you must be 17 years and older distancing as well as temperature checks to do so. being conducted at the door. Also, study For more information on all that the rooms, meeting rooms, makerspaces and Hillsborough County Public Library recording studios are not available for Cooperative offers, please visit www. use at this time.

HCPLC.org.

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April 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 9

FLIGHT TO HONOR MISSION #6 FLY VETERANS TO WASHINGTON D.C. TO BE RECOGNIZED FOR SERVICES

By Tatiana Ortiz

Veterans of Flight to Honor Mission #5 visited the World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

Through the Flight to Honor Polk program with the Polk County Veterans Council, veterans will be recognized for their services and sacrifice during the upcoming Flight to Honor Mission #6. On Tuesday, April 27, 80 veterans, as well as their assigned trained Guardians who will accompany them on their one-day trip to Washington D.C., will get an opportunity to visit the memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial erected in honor of their services. The mission will depart early in the morning and return to Lakeland Linder International Airport in the evening.

Flight to Honor Polk became established in January 2015. When it comes to goals, Flight to Honor Polk abides by three objectives. One would be to make sure the veterans get to and from their destinations safely. Another objective is to give the community an opportunity to show their appreciation. Lastly, the third objective is to press upon the young people about the importance of doing for others.

All veterans who did not participate in a previous Honor Flight Mission or Flight

to Honor Mission are considered eligible.

Top priority will be given to terminally ill and World War II veterans, followed by veterans from the Korean, Vietnam and Gulf Wars and eras. Veterans will fly for free.

To become a Guardian, one must be between the ages of 18 and 75, along with not being the spouse or significant other to the veteran. Guardians will be required to pay their own expenses with a $500 donation.

Retired United States Air Force Col. Gary Clark, chairman of the Polk County Veterans Council, expressed his gratitude towards those who support this.

“This is an important event for the community and [we] appreciate all of the support,” Clark said.

Clark stated that anyone interested in welcoming back the veterans as they get off the plane from their trip can come to the Lakeland Linder International Airport in the tarmac area, where it is expected to land around 8 to 8:30 p.m.

To apply, visit https://www.polkveteranscouncil.com/home.html, email flighttohonorpolk@gmail.com or call 863646-5966.

NOW Accepting New Patients Call today to schedule an appointment.

813-530-0903 631 W. Lumsden Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511

Page 10

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

LOCAL RESIDENT RECEIVES LIVING LEGEND AWARD FOR MILITARY SERVICE

NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL HOSTS JAZZ FESTIVAL

Anne (Brenneis) the U.S. Navy Garcia received Training Center the Living Legend in Bainbridge, Award from the Maryland. She Women in Military was one of Service for Amerabout 100 colica (WIMSA) in lege women recognition of her who attendU.S. military service ed the 1953 from 1953-1955, session of the her membership Reserve Offiin the Alafia River cer Candidate Chapter NSDAR School (Wom(National Society en) designed From left to right: Tricia Van Den Top, USAF colonel Daughters of the (retired) and WIMSA Foundation Ambassador – Flor- to qualify college American Revolution, ida; Anne (Brenneis) Garcia; Roberta Jordan, former women for Naval or DAR) and her vol- Alafia River Chapter NSDAR regent and U.S. Army Reserve commisunteer work in the lieutenant colonel (retired); Jennifer Marks, Alafia River sions. Anne comcommunity with the Chapter vice regent; and Cathleen LaVigne, Alafia pleted Supply River Chapter regent.

Boys & Girls Club.

Corps School and She was presented this prestigious served at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. award on March 19, with members of her After her military service, Anne continDAR chapter as well as WIMSA Foundation ued to serve her country and community Ambassador and Retired Colonel Tricia Van with her husband, Joe Garcia. In 2003, Den Top presenting the award.

Joe and Anne helped guide the opening of The Living Legend program focuses on the Bill Carey Brandon Boys & Girls Club women veterans who have contributed in partnership with the First Methodist during and after their service. Women vet- Church of Brandon. In 2006, they received erans are also eligible for the award when the National Silver Medallion Award from they reach age 100. the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the highAnne was nominated by Retired U.S. est recognition given by the organization. In Army Lt. Colonel and former Alafia River 2011, the Joe & Anne Garcia Salesian Youth Chapter NSDAR Regent Roberta Jordan, Center Boys & Girls Club celebrated its 15th who said, “Anne, as well as other women anniversary with a special ceremony. who served during the World War II and Anne has been an active member and Korean eras, broke glass ceilings by demon- chaired several committees through the strating there is a role for women in the Daughters of the American Revolution. She military. Those of us who served later owe has worked as a champion for veterans, citthose women a huge debt of gratitude. This izenship and naturalization. award is one way of saying thank you.”

The Alafia River Chapter NSDAR is proud In 1953, Lieutenant Anne was commis- to honor Anne (Brenneis) Garcia as a true sioned an ensign in the Naval Reserve at living legend.

Jazz fans, According mark your calto Ochalek, endars.

NewThe Jazz Exsome High perience will School is hosttake the stage ing jazz bands under the from nine local stars at 9 p.m. schools and a “We are professional jazz asking spectagroup at the tors to bring first annual A their own Night Under The chair or blanStars Jazz Festiket; it’s going val next month. to be out on The event, the football which will take Newsome High School is hosting jazz bands from nine local field,” said place on Satur- schools and a professional jazz group at the first annual A Ochalek.

Night Under The Stars Jazz Festival next month. day, May 1 from Parking at 1-10 p.m., will feature the school is free and bands from Barrington attendees are welMiddle School, Rivcome to come and go erview High School, throughout the day.

Armwood High School, “It is an event geared Spoto High School, for families, not just Robinson High School, adults,” said Ochalek.

Bloomingdale High Although this is the School, H.B. Plant High first event of its kind School, Plant City High at the school, hopes are School and Newsome for it to become an anHigh School. There will nual event. also be a featured performance by pro“This is our inaugural event, [and] our fessional jazz group The Jazz Experience. goal is to have this event every spring,” “Enjoy a full day and evening of music said Ochalek. “April is international jazz featuring area school jazz bands, food month and we will hope to tie it in during trucks and fun,” said Music Showcase’s the month of April and the beginning first Heather Ochalek. week of May every year.”

The festival will be a full-day event with The festival is open to the public and something for everyone, including a raffle. tickets can be purchased in advance at “The goal is to increase jazz music www.newsomeband.com or at the door. awareness to bring community together The tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for and rise above through COVID and adver- students 18 years old and younger. Those sity,” said Ochalek. “We are really looking 3 and younger are free. forward to this event.”

Staff Report

WWW.WOMENSCAREFL.COM

By Kate Quesada

April 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

86TH STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL QUEEN AND COURT CELEBRATE SUCCESSFUL SEASON Staff Report Despite the difknew my family was ficulties of the last so proud of me.” year due to the global Many young wompandemic, the Florida en who enter the conStrawberry Festival test have grown up continued an age-old attending the annual tradition of crowning festival and seeing the Florida Strawberthe queen. Surrency ry Festival queen and said, “I can rememher court. McKenna ber being 5 years The 2021 Florida Strawberry Festival queen Jordan was crowned old and going to the and court include five area high school seniors. the queen of the 86th McKenna Jordan, a senior at Strawberry Crest, pageant and wanting Florida Strawberry was named queen, and her court includes First to take pictures with Festival in its Queen’s Maid Avery Surrency, a senior at Durant High the queen and court Scholarship Pageant School; KellieAnne Marie Kirkland, a senior at every year. Something Strawberry Crest High School; Brynne Murphy, inside of me always in January.

Jordan, who is a a senior at Durant High School; and Kate Turn- wanted to participate er, a senior at Bloomingdale High School. senior at Strawberand dreamt of one day ry Crest High School, was selected from a being on the court.” Surrency added, “I hope field of 29 contestants. In addition to the that over the next year we have the chance queen, her court consists of First Maid Av- to really get involved and work within our ery Surrency, a senior at Durant High School; community. For me, this is an opportunity to KellieAnne Marie Kirkland, a senior at Straw- give back and say ‘thank you’ for being the berry Crest High School; Brynne Murphy, a loving community I have grown up in.” senior at Durant High School; and Kate TurnEach year, the queen and her court are er, a senior at Bloomingdale High School. honored with an exhibit at the Florida Jordan said, “I wanted to participate in Strawberry Festival. For the last several the Florida Strawberry Festival queen be- years, Marsha Passmore and Dodie White, cause I would be given the opportunity to sisters and lifelong Plant City residents, have serve my community, which is something I worked tirelessly to put together the beautilove doing. I would be able to meet new peo- ful exhibit. ple, improve on my public speaking skills and A queen and her court have been selected I would also gain four new best friends.” Jor- each year, with the exception of the years dan added, “When my name was announced during World War II (1942-1947). to be the 2021 Florida Strawberry Festival This year’s exhibit featured a special case queen, I dropped to the floor. Tears flooded highlighting Catherine Fletcher, the 1940 my eyes and I was so overwhelmed with joy Strawberry Festival queen. because it was something that I have been The Queen’s Scholarship Pageant is sponworking towards for seven months. All of sored by the Plant City Lions Club. Orientathe hard work had paid off. My dad rushed tion is held in October and applications are the stage and gave me a fist pump, which due in November. For more information, was the best feeling in the world because I please visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com.

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Page 11

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Page 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

U-PICK BLUEBERRY SEASON IS HERE

By Tatiana Ortiz

located at 5202 ThonoFlorida blueberry farmers tosassa Rd. in Plant City. will produce about 10 to 12 Call 752-9100. million tons of blueberries Lyna Berry Farms annually in this state. And, Blueberry U-Pick according to the U.S. DepartFrom the end of April ment of Agriculture’s Nationthrough May, people al Agricultural Statistics Sercan come to Lyna Berry vice, blueberries are about a Farms for U-pick and pre$60 million-a-year industry pick blueberries. Exact in Florida. dates and times will be Wish Farms Blueberry determined. The U-pick U-Pick People can come to Wish Owners of Lyna Berry Farms Lyna prices will be $2.50 Farms in Plant City and Knight (left) and Susan Weicherding per pound (weighted at (right). checkout) and pre-pick pick fresh blueberries right $4 per pound (in 2 lb. off the plants. This occurs every Saturday will be through May 1 at 10 a.m. It costs $7 per and 5 lb. packaging).

For more information, or to sign up for pound, and cash or credit credit will be the type of payment methods accepted. Picking email notifications on U-picks, pre-picks buckets will also be provided. Those who at- dates and more, visit www.lynaberryfarms. tend will need to bring a container to trans- com. Check out their Facebook page www. port the berries home. Free parking will also facebook.com/lynaberryfarms. It is located be available and registration is not required. at 11920 Neal Rd. in Lithia (FishHawk) and For more information, visit www.wish- 17928 Bill Taylor Rd. in Lithia (Fort Lonefarms.com/berry-u-picks. Check out the some).

Wishing Well Barn Blueberry U-Pick Facebook page www.facebook.com/wishFrom now until the end of May, Wishing farms. It is located at 1301 S. Frontage Rd. in Plant City. For questions, email market- Well Barn will be offering U-pick blueberries Monday through Thursday at 9 a.m. ing@wishfarms.com.

The blueberries will be at market price.

Keel Farms Blueberry U-Pick For questions, contact Michelle Welch at Visit the 20 acres of blueberry fields located at Keel Farms in Plant City from now 478-6554. Check out the Facebook page until the entirety of its blueberry season https://www.facebook.com/WishingWellfor U-pick. The blueberries will be on sale Barn. It is located at 4302 Pippin Rd. in for $5 per pound Monday through Friday Plant City.

Frosty Blue Farms Blueberry U-Pick beginning at 10 a.m. On Saturday and SunThose interested in U-pick and ‘we-pick’ day at 9 a.m., the blueberries will be $6 per pound. Parking will be free and it does not blueberries should reach out to Frosty Blue cost anything for admission. In addition, the Farms as it typically takes place in mid-May tasting room will also be open at 11 a.m., and ends at the end of the month.

Www.frostybluefarms.com/u-pick.html Monday through Friday, for dining, tastings FrostyBlueBlueberryFarm on FaceBook. It and to-go purchases.

For more information, visit www.face- is located at 1907 Streetman Dr. in Lithia. book.com/keelandcurleyatkeelfarms. It is Call 689-7703.

Volume 16, Issue 4

April 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 13

DAYLIGHT CONCEPTS, LLC REMAINS FOCUSED ON ITS CUSTOMERS

By Tatiana Ortiz

As the exclusive Ayala shared what authorized Solamakes Daylight Concepts, tube Premier DealLLC unique. er in the Greater “We ensure that our Tampa Bay area, in-home consultants can Daylight Concepts, offer a wide range of soluLLC provides its tions for all of our customcustomers with iners, taking into account comparable service, their needs and budgets quality and price. to help them upgrade their Rene Ayala, manhomes,” Ayala said. aging director at The quality at Daylight Daylight Concepts, Concepts, LLC begins with LLC, joined it more its factory-trained instalthan four years ago. lation consultants. It also Ayala stated that provides a variety of Solahe will continue Rene Ayala, managing director at Daylight tube accessories and opwith the company’s tions, along with offering Concepts, LLC. start and journey free estimates. In regards through Southwest to roofing, it performs free Florida. roof inspections during the Daylight Contime of installation. Daycepts, LLC opened light Concepts, LLC has in mid-2007 when partnered with some of a group of young the best professionals in people decided to the state to maintain dicommit to brightening others’ lives by verse training in areas such as customer bringing natural light to their homes. Be- service, safety and much more. sides serving the Greater Tamp Bay area, Ayala mentioned that the future looks it also provides service to St. Petersburg, bright since Florida is a great place for tuLakeland, Clearwater, Sarasota and more. bular skylights or Solatube Daylight SysIn addition, Daylight Concepts, LLC is also tems. a Florida state-certified roofing contrac“Overall, with more than 14 years of extor with 18 years of experience in sales perience, we are here to help,” Ayala said. and installation of Solatube Daylighting “Give us a call and let us brighten your Systems, roofing, solar attic fans and sky- day,” he added. lights. More than 30 years ago, Solatube For more information or to schedule a created the tubular skylights concepts. free consultation, visit https://daylightWith that in mind, it continues to improve concepts.com. It is located at 6710 Benits products and provide the best experi- jamin Rd., Ste. 100 in Tampa. Call 886ence for its customers.

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Page 14

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Missy’s Ink Empowers Women

By Libby Hopkins When a woman feels Duncan offers many good, she can take on services at Missy’s Ink. the world. Missy DunFrom microblading to can, owner of Missy’s pink areola pigmentaInk in Valrico, makes tion, her goal is to make sure every woman who women feel beautiful. “I receives one of her love to create beautibeauty services leaves ful permanent makeup feeling beautiful and for my clients,” Duncan empowered.

“Missy’s said. “There’s nothing Ink just celebrated better than looking your four years best, any time of the of being in day. Life may not always business,” be perfect, but your Duncan said. makeup can be.”

“I feel so Duncan is always Missy Duncan, owner blessed and learning new beauty excited for the future. of Missy’s Ink in Valrico, makes sure services that she can offer every woman who receives one of her After being in the same to her clients as well. “The beauty services leaves feeling beautiful office for more than 10 most current class that I and empowered. years, it was time for a recently took was for machange. I’m moving to the Valrico area, chine strokes,” Duncan said. “Machine and it’s such an exciting new adventure.” strokes is a process of using my machine Duncan is a mom of two adult children for the hair stroke technique instead of a and has been married for 29 years to her microblade. This method makes the prohusband, who has been her sweetheart cess more comfortable as well as helps since she met him when she was 14 years with color retention.” old. “We’re enjoying the empty nest life Duncan’s goal for the future is to contogether and loving it,” Duncan said. tinue to learn, grow and gain more confiAfter having a successful photography dence. “Learning creates knowledge and business for 20 years, Duncan decided knowledge creates confidence,” Duncan she needed a change in life. “I decided said. “Continuing to take classes in perthat, although God had blessed me so manent makeup is something that I do much, I was ready for a change,” Duncan often. I believe continuing to learn more said. “I took a leap of faith and set out for is a priority in this business.” a new beginning with permanent makeup.

To learn more about the services ofIt’s been the best career I could’ve ever fered at Missy’s Ink, visit www.missysink. hoped for. It allows me to show my cre- com or call 659-0648. The new location ativity and gives me such satisfaction of of Missy’s Ink is at 3117 Lithia Pinecrest seeing a woman renew her self-esteem.”

Rd. in Valrico.

Volume 16, Issue 4

NEW PROGRAMS AT JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF TAMPA BAY BOOST CAREER READINESS

By Tatiana Ortiz for emphasizing design thinking STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering Mathematand ics), but also ones modified for the in-classroom JA BizTown experience and much more.

With those students who participate, Sutherland hopes that they understand will Teachers from Summerfield Crossings Elementary School receiving JA Bizthe importance of Town In a Box for their classrooms. a well-functioning During the summer of economy, banking procedures, basics of 2020, Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay operating a business and more. launched two free hands-on learning proWith JA BizTown Adventures, it offers grams for fifth-graders called JA BizTown virtual students an opportunity to join in In a Box and JA BizTown Adventures on JA BizTown too. From the comfort of through virtual and inside-the-classroom students’ homes, JA BizTown Adventures activities. Both of these programs provide gives them a glimpse of five roles withstudents with a solid foundation of ecoin the virtual business world spectrum, nomics, business and free enterprise edsuch as CEO (Chief Executive Officer), a ucation. financial expert, salesperson, innovator Jonny Sutherland, marketing and comand consumer. When students complete munications director at Junior AchieveJA BizTown Adventures, they will gain a ment of Tampa Bay, stated how JA Biz360-degree view of how a business funcTown In a Box came into fruition. tions and how money flows through the “When we realized that the COVID-19 economy. Sutherland mentioned that it restrictions would result in fifth-graders will remain an active option for the near missing out on the JA BizTown experifuture. ence, our team brainstormed a resolution “All in all, our plan is for all of the Hillthat resulted in JA BizTown In a Box,” sborough County schools to get exposure Sutherland said. with either JA BizTown In a Box or JA BiJA BizTown In a Box comes neatly packzTown Adventures,” Sutherland said. aged in a box with lesson plans, materiFor more, visit https://jatampabay.org. als that educators can utilized to create For questions, contact Stephanie Docsol, role-playing learning experiences for their director of Junior Achievement of Tampa students and more. Specifically, JA BizBay, at Stephanie.docsol@ja.org.

Town In a Box includes activities not only

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April 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 15

DIETRICH & KELSO ORTHODONTICS OFFER PREMIUM PATIENT CARE TO THE COMMUNITY

ADVENTHEALTH ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR NEW RIVERVIEW HOSPITAL

office manager at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics.

The 28 staff members that make up Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics provide quality customer service for each guest and play an important role in facilitating the caring and welcoming experience that the company maintains.

“I like to brag that our foundation is built more on trust and teamwork and the comThe smiling staff of Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, dedicated to mitment to carrying ourselves with the utmost integrity and high-quality customer service. compassion,” said Chandler.

When it comes to orthodontics, Dietrich At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, many & Kelso Orthodontics offers quality care different types of insurances are accepted with staff that put building trustworthy and flexible payment options are available relationships with patients first. The comin order to best accommodate patients. pany has established its reputation for proPart of the company’s commitment to fessionalism over the last 43 years, startquality is reflected in its approach to treating in the Polk County area and expanding to serving the Hillsborough County com- ments which include utilizing the newest technologies and techniques in the field of munity more recently.

The original practice was started by Dr. orthodontics. In addition, Dietrich & Kelso Keith Hillard, who worked in the office un- continues to grow and expand as the detil his retirement in 2016. In 2012, Dr. An- sire to bring quality care to more patients drew Dietrich took ownership of the prac- and families increases.

“Instead of just doing orthodontics, we tice, and later in 2017, Dr. Andrew Kelso build a relationship with our patients,” said became part owner with Dr. Dietrich.

Chandler.

Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics specialDietrich & Kelso Orthodontics accomizes in braces and Invisalign treatment modates patients Monday-Friday at all six for children and adults and the dedicated of its locations; hours of operation vary dedoctors with the company work to create pending on the office. There are two locapersonalized plans with each individual pations in Hillsborough County, the Brandon tient. The primary goal is for patients to location at 401 S. Parsons Ave., Unit A and feel confident and informed about their the Riverview at 11906 Boyette Rd. treatments throughout the entire process.

To learn more about Dietrich & Kelso “We take pride in providing the best orOrthodontics and to find contact informathodontic care with a focus on exceptional patient experiences,” said Ashley Chandler, tion, visit dkosmiles.com.

Leaders for Adservices. ventHealth West The hospital Florida Division development have announced follows Adplans to build a v e n t H e a l t h ’s 209,000-squarerecent growth foot, four-story and expansion hospital in Riverplans, includview. The health ing the Taneja care system will Center for Surbreak ground on gery opening the $216 million later this year, project beginning AdventHealth West Florida Division will break ground the opening of on the new Southern Hills. location later this year. in Fall 2021 and two new off-site plans to open the emergency dehospital in Spring 2023. partments in West“We are excited to conchase and Brandon, tinue our growth strategy the opening of an Adto meet the fast-growing ventHealth Imaging needs of Southern HillCenter in Brandon and sborough County,” said the recent acquisition Mike Schultz, president and CEO of Ad- of an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) ventHealth West Florida Division. “This formerly known as Tampa Bay Surgery hospital is another addition to our robust Center and Exodus Women’s Centers lonetwork of connected care that we’re cated throughout Greater Tampa Bay. providing in this area, including primary The West Florida Division of Advencare, specialty care, emergency services, tHealth offers a robust system of care, outpatient imaging and more. We want including specialty acute care, over 200 to make it easy for people to have conve- primary care and specialty employed phynient access to the expert care they need, sicians, Express Care at Walgreens clinics, when they need it, and help close the gap urgent care centers, wound care, physical in health care services in our community.” therapy, home care, mobile mammography The first phase of the new Riverview and more. AdventHealth is a faith-based, hospital will include 80 beds at opening not-for-profit health care system with a day and additional space for future expan- mission of “Extending the Healing Ministry sion to accommodate over 200 beds as of Christ.” AdventHealth has hundreds of the community’s demand for health care care sites and nearly 50 hospitals across grows. The full-service hospital will pro- the United States. vide emergency, cardiology, obstetrics and For more information about Adventgynecology (including labor and delivery), Health, visit AdventHealth.com or Facegastroenterology, orthopedic and urology book.com/AdventHealth.

By Hayley Fedor

Staff Report

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Page 16

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL PARTNERS WITH TYTOCARE TO CREATE TGH VIRTUAL HEALTH KIT Staff Report Tampa General ly and feaHospital (TGH) tures built-in and TytoCare guidance are partnering to technology to create the first help ensure innovative ataccuracy and home telehealth ease of use. kit in the Tampa Upon purBay area, TGH chasing the Virtual Health kit, the patient Kit. This at-home downloads The at-home TGH Virtual Health Kit features a handheld kit will provide Tyto device (far left) with (left to right) an otoscope adaptor the free TGH on-demand vir- for examining the ears, a stethoscope adaptor for examining Virtual Health tual medical ex- heart and lung sounds and a tongue depressor for examin- app available ing the throat. ams for patients on iOS or from a licensed provider from TGH’s urgent Android and, using their Wi-Fi or hotspot, care team, TGH Urgent Care powered by connects the device to their TGH Virtual Fast Track. TytoCare is the health care in- Health account. From there, the patient can dustry’s first all-in-one modular device and request a visit with a medical provider who telehealth platform for AI-powered, on-de- can help guide the patient through any necmand, remote medical examinations. essary exams using the device and its atThe handheld TytoCare device with ac- tachments. companying attachments allows patients “The TGH Virtual Health Kit will allow us, to conduct comprehensive medical exams as providers, to perform detailed clinical of the ears, lungs, heart, throat, skin and ab- exams for patients to accurately diagnose domen, as well as heart rate and body tem- common illnesses remotely,” said Paul Nanperature, from anywhere at any time. The da, MD, chief medical officer at TGH Urgent FDA-cleared TytoCare kit includes a built-in Care powered by Fast Track. high-resolution exam camera and thermomThis kit can be used to examine both eter, along with an otoscope adaptor for adults and children. Patients must be in examining the ears, a stethoscope adaptor the state of Florida to use the TGH Virtual for examining heart and lung sounds and a Health Kit. The information recorded from tongue depressor for examining the throat. the TytoCare device is stored in a secure This enables the provider to remotely diag- cloud which complies with privacy regulanose and treat common conditions, such as tions. Only the provider and the patient will ear infections, upper respiratory issues/sore be able to access this information. throat, rashes/bug bites/skin issues, cold To purchase or learn more about the TGH and flu, congestion/sinus issues and stom- Virtual Health Kit, please visit tytocare. ach issues. com/ HYPERLINK “http://www.tytocare.

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PORT TAMPA BAY OFFERS FREE EDUCATIONAL HARBOR TOURS

By Tatiana Ortiz Through its container ships by partnership crane. Wolf-Chason with The Florstated that, accordida Aquarium, ing to the American Port Tampa Association of Port Bay provides Authorities, 95 perfree 75-mincent of goods one ute Educational uses does travel Harbor Tours through a seaport. twice a week With the seating on Wednesdays capacity limited to and Thursdays 60 passengers, those at 9 a.m. These interested in the tour tours assist the must make an adcommunity with vanced reservation. understanding Upon completion of the economic every reservation, a importance of confirmation email Port Tampa Bay, will be sent with inwhich handles structions. Particimore than 37 pants will also meet million tons of at the huge manta cargo a year and ray statue at the enPassengers aboard the Bay Spirit II catamaran during is considered trance of The Florida an Educational Harbor Tour at Port Tampa Bay. Florida’s largest Aquarium. As part of port. In addition, Port Tampa Bay has an the safety protocols being implemented with $18 billion impact on the region and effects the COVID-19 pandemic, face coverings and 85,000 direct as well as indirect jobs. social distancing will be required throughLisa Wolf-Chason, director of communica- out the entire tour. In regards to youth and tions at Port Tampa Bay, shared what partic- school groups, a variety of guidelines will ipants will learn during their narrated tour. need to be adhered to.

“They will learn about our cruise opera“Overall, Port Tampa Bay is the enertions, what some of the port’s major tenants gy gateway of Florida and nearly half of bring through our port and about its history the state’s fuel comes through our port,” in our community,” Wolf-Chason said.

Wolf-Chason said. “With that in mind, most Passengers will be touring Hooker’s Point people have no idea that such an important while riding the Bay Spirit II catamaran. part of their daily lives sits in their own backHooker’s Point displays the port’s container yard,” she added. terminals, fuel terminals and more. During For more information or to book a tour, the tour, passengers may even get a chance visit www.porttb.com/harbor-tours or call to observe containers being taken off giant 905-7678.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

PROJECT ROLE MODEL RETURNS TO CENTER PLACE FINE ARTS & CIVIC ASSOCIATION

RAYS KIDS CLUB OFFERS DIGITAL EXPERIENCE FOR YOUNG BASEBALL FANS

By Lily Belcher

By Libby Hopkins Charm, etiquette life.” and self-developLinda has been ment are qualities teaching etiquette, that are near and self-development, dear to Linda Herncharm and modeling don-Goldstein or for more than 30 years.

‘Miss Linda,’ as she She is a fifth-generais known at Cention Brandon resident ter Place. Linda has who owned and opbeen teaching her erated her own busiProject Role Model ness called Glamour class for 17 years at Connection. “I was an Center Place. With instructor and motivathe recent pandemic tor at Barbizon School and the near-closof Modeling and won ing of the beloved teacher of the year Brandon community there,” Linda said. “I center, Project Role believe the way you Model had to be put Linda Herndon-Goldstein has been teach- present yourself to the on hold for a while. “I ing etiquette, self-development, charm and world is the way the modeling for more than 30 years. am so thrilled to be world responds to you, back home at Center Place,” Linda said. and that must be in a positive, self-con“While Center Place was closed, former fident manner. students and parents were reaching out Linda’s platform and goal for Project to me to see when I would be teaching Role Model is to help young girls become this program again at Center Place.” role models who grow up to inspire othProject Role Model session one begins er young girls. “My goal in teaching this on Wednesday, May 5. The six-week pro- program is to improve, educate and cregram for girls ages 8-14 will meet on ate role models for future generations Wednesdays at Center Place from 6-8 who believe, achieve and succeed. I want p.m. The program ends on June 9 with a girls to come share the opportunity to graduation and fashion show ceremony reach for the stars and become one.” at the center. The cost for the program If you would like to register your is $60. “I love teaching this program daughter for Project Role Model session because it builds self-esteem, self-con- one, please call Center Place Fine Arts & fidence, manners and gives our young Civic Association at 685-8888. Linda is girls a positive attitude,” Linda said. “I currently working on dates for Project feel that girls nowadays need to learn Role Model session two and a Project the qualities to help them succeed in Role Model for boys as well.

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Volume 16, Issue 4

The Tampa Bay Rays Rookies Kids Club offers digital experiences with players and staff, including Rays mascot Raymond.

The Tampa Bay Rays are more than just the 2020 American League Champions, they are also a vital contribution to Tampa Bay area charitable causes. Throughout the year, the Rays front office and players work to involve the community, especially elementary and middle school-aged children, through programs such as Reading with the Rays and Poynter Institute’s Write Field Program.

In February, the World Series runner-ups launched their 2021 Rays Rookies Kids Club, sponsored by Outback Steakhouse, giving children under 14 years old access to promotional items, exclusive digital content and an online portal with activities through the $30 membership.

“The online membership portal is a new feature for this season that allows us to connect with fans while they are away from the ballpark,” said Tampa Bay Rays Director of Promotions Stephon Thomas.

“On the portal, members can download activity sheets, answers trivia questions, participate in polls, watch videos and more. The portal is also where we will host digital experiences with Rays players and staff. These digital experiences will include Zoom videos with Raymond, players and

other special guests.”

The digital portal offers five monthly challenges to members to complete for additional prizes and notifies Rays Rookies of upcoming virtual meet-and-greets with guests.

Rays Rookies Kids Club members will receive a Rays duffle bag, snapback hat and 2020 American League Championship socks. Those who sign up before Opening Day on Thursday, April 1 will receive their premium promotional items in April for the beginning of the season. Children who sign up after Opening Day can expect their gifts at least two weeks after they sign up.

“Our mission is to energize the community through the magic of Rays baseball.

The Kids Club is one of the most important ways that we can do that. We want to build connections between kids in the community as well as with the team, as we build Rays fans for generations to come,” said Thomas.

To sign up for the limited membership, visit raysbaseball.com/raysrookies or sign up through the Major League Baseball Ballpark App. For information or additional questions, email raysrookies@raysbaseball.com.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

Page 19

PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNIFER WAINMAN

FISHHAWK LITTLE LEAGUE TEAMMATES HAVE SUCCESS IN SALADINO TOURNAMENT Former FishHawk Little League baseball teammates and friends Drake Harman, Evan Wainman and Kris Sosnowski are all making an impact at the high school level for different teams. Harman and Sosnowski were named to the Saladino 2021 All-Tournament Team and Wainman earned the Frank Permuy Best Hitter Award.

Former Wolves travel coach Kevin Suba coached them for three years, from 9U-11U. He remembers going to Cherry’s on the weekends or after a game to celebrate and eat dinner. He recalls the boys being inseparable, always hanging out and playing together in the arcade room.

“I’m extremely proud of these kids and what they have accomplished,” said Suba.

“It’s awesome that these guys are grown up and having success, and I had a small part in that.”

The trio grew up playing together at the FishHawk baseball fields, attending Bevis Elementary School together. A fork in the road formed when it was time for them to attend high school, leading them to separate paths.

Harman, now a junior at Bloomingdale, is an outfielder for the Bulls and is currently hitting .421 with 24 hits and 10 RBIs at the top of the lineup. He went 8-for-14 in the Saladino Tournament with five RBIs and a home run, earning him All-Tournament honors.

“Honestly, it’s a big thing to me,” said

Harman. “I’ve been working really hard every day to become the best player I can be and the best teammate I can be, on and off the field.

When I saw I made the team, I felt like all my hard work was beginning to pay off. Being that I am uncommitted, I have a regimen of working out every morning and going up to the field to get early work in.”

Junior Newsome Wolves player Wainman has been a standout at the plate, hitting .455 with four home runs and 18 RBIs. The 2021 Frank Permuy Best Hitter Award recipient went 10-for-14 with two home runs and eight RBIs in the tournament.

“I was very honored to find out that I was awarded the Frank Permuy Best Hitter Award,” said Wainman. “I have been working hard and really focusing on hitting this last year. I’m happy the work is paying off.”

Jesuit Tiger and UCF commit Sosnowski played a key role in his team winning the Saladino Tournament this spring break. The reliever threw eight innings, giving up zero earned runs while striking out seven, earning him All-Tournament honors.

level representing their schools in a very big tournament like the Tony Saladino Tournament. I am very proud of them.”

Diaz’s fondest memory of coaching the boys was when they were In the final game of districts and the opposing team hit a walk-off home run and the The boys were on the same 9U FishHawk All-Star hitter missed touching second team together. and third base. The field um“It means a lot to make the pire noticed, giving them a second chance.

All-Saladino Tournament team,” Wainman took advantage, hitting a threesaid Sosnowski. “There are plenty of great run home run to win the game. pitchers around the area, and I am glad “When I read who made the team and that I was considered one of them in the saw some familiar names on there, it tournament. Winning the tournament was brought back memories from when we a huge accomplishment for our team. At were playing on the same recreation and the beginning of the fall, our goal this year all-star teams,” said Harman. “I don’t talk was to win three rings. First the Steinbren- to either of them regularly, but I like playner Tournament, then the Saladino Tourna- ing against them when our teams meet.” ment, and, most importantly, a state chamEven though the former teammates don’t pionship ring. Now the goal is to win the speak regularly, they will always remember third one.” their time together when they were kids.

Ed Diaz, who coached all three players on “I have so many fond memories of playand off from 8U though 10U and all-stars, ing with Drake and Kris, including 8U Allsaid that he still follows his former players’ Stars, 9U All-Stars and 10U Wolves,” said baseball careers and is not surprised by Wainman. “We always played hard but had their collective success. a good time. Both Drake and Kris are great “All three of the players are extremely all-around players. Chris dominates on the coachable and continue to play with the mound and Drake can do everything. It has same excitement they had when they were been a great season for all of us, and to 10,” said Diaz. “It’s great to see all three of think it all started at the FishHawk Little these FishHawk players playing at the high League fields is pretty amazing.”

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Bulls 5K, Spring Yoga, Wreath Donation & More...

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Pathway To Wellness Women’s Retreat

Join Women Centered 4 Success (WC4S) for its Pathway to Wellness retreat focused on reconnecting your mind, reenergizing your body, and rejuvenating your spirit through dynamic speakers and a specially curated program designed for an unforgettable wellness experience. “A wellness retreat is a space where women can reconnect with one another to cultivate our womanhood, celebrate our unique talents and ultimately leave the retreat feeling empowered to make self-care a priority,” shared Sheila Lewis, CEO of WC4S. The Pathway to Wellness retreat was created to help women in emotional, financial, spiritual, relationship, mental and fitness wellness. WC4S has identified these areas as the key focus points in a woman’s life that she needs to manage well and ultimately master to propel her forward.

For more information and to register for the retreat, visit www.wc4s.org.

New Date And Location For Running Of The Bulls 5K

The Running of the Bulls 5K has been moved to a new date and location. The event will now be held on Sunday, May 23 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. The 5K race starts at 8 a.m.

All proceeds will benefit the Bloomingdale High School Band.

Find updates about the event on its Facebook page @bloomingdalebulls5k and register for the event at www.fitniche.com/events.

New Baby Giraffe At Busch Gardens

Guests at Busch Gardens can now ‘spot’ a new face on the park’s Serengeti plain. Born earlier this year, Cedora, a two-month-old

female giraffe calf, just made her debut on the park’s 65-acre, multispecies habitat. After spending some time bonding with her mother, Cedora is becoming familiar with the rest of the Busch Gardens giraffe herd. As you visit the park, you can get a special look at the giraffes on board the Serengeti Express Train or by booking a Serengeti Safari, which includes the opportunity to hand-feed one of the amazing animals.

Volume 16, Issue 4

Congratulations To Bloomindale’s All-County 2020-21 Students

1 5 TH A N N U A L

BAY LIFE CAR SHOW

Wreath Donation To Liberty Manor

Some people have a talent and enjoy making others happy by sharing that talent, and Mamie Robinson, who made and delivered seven beautiful wreaths in an all-American

& CRAFT FAIR

family. Affordable food available, plus a full craft show with over 50 vendors, including auto-related vendors to help with your car needs! A great live band, 50/50 drawing, and over 70 trophies awarded in many categories! Admission is free. Show car owners are encouraged to provide a voluntary $10 donation, with every penny from this event benefiting Bay Life Church Missions.

You can pre-register and see past event photos, property map, and more at www. baylife.org/carshow. To learn more, contact Steve Schumm at sschumm@baylife.org or visit www.baylife.org/carshow.

To learn about the missions at Bay Life Church, please visit www.baylife.org/,missions.

Spring Yoga Classes Starting At Center Place

Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is pleased to announce the start of spring yoga classes on the deck. Two styles of yoga are

The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles are an opportunity for the top musicians throughout the county to experience music making in an ensemble setting. It not only showcases the top musicians in the county, it also gives them a chance to work with a director other than their own. Bloomingdale High School’s band director, Jon Sever, is proud of the students that made it to the All-County and sees it as a good sign for the future.

High School Band, 9th-10th Grade: Clay Larson, Jocelyn Bueno Hernandez, Creighton Cantrell, Cameron Jennings, Matthew Ryan, Mishka Moronta, Chole Erickson High School Band, 11th-12th Grade: Jose Cisneros, Mason Rhody, Summer Hogenmiller, Diana Munoz, Danna Rodroguez, Declan Ware.

Winners Of Music Showcase Contest

March is Music In Our Schools month and the perfect opportunity to celebrate the very best of what is happening musically in classrooms across our area. Music Showcase in Brandon held an es-say/ drawing contest for students to express what music in school means to them, and would like to congratulate all the participants for their dedication, hard work and creativity. The winners are: Elemen-tary School winner- Saanvi, Lithia Springs Elementary, runner up- Kayleigh, Lithia Springs Elementary. Middle School Katerina, Lawton Chiles Middle Academy. High School winner- Nicholas, Alonso High, runner up-Brooke, Strawberry Crest High.

Plant City Social Dances Every Saturday

Veterans with their new wreaths.

motif to the residents at Liberty Manor for Veterans, is just that kind of person. The mission of Liberty Manor for Veterans is to promote the developmental and social needs of disabled and honorably discharged veterans who have fallen victim to homelessness. Anyone interested in assisting in this initiative can contact Connie Lindsay on 900-9422 or visit its website at www.libertymanor.org for more information.

15th Annual Bay Life Car Show and Craft Fair At Bay Life Church

Come join other car and craft lovers for Bay Life’s 15th Annual Car Show and Craft Fair. This event is open to the public, with over 500 show vehicles from around the state. Classics, hot rods, full custom vehicles, military vehicles, muscle cars, exotics, trucks and more on the shaded property set up for a fun day for the whole

available: Holy Yoga Flow on Saturday, May 1 and May 15, 8-9 a.m., and Hatha Yoga Flow on May 1 and May 15, 10-11 a.m. The cost for each session will be $20.

To register for a class, please call 685-8888.

Plant City Social Dance at the Strawberry Square Dance Center on 4401 Promenade Blvd. will be having dances every Saturday.

Ballroom music will be played from 6-6:30 p.m. followed by regular dance music. To listen to a sample of the playlist, visit djkenmiller.com. Limits on those attending have been removed and reservations are no longer required.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

Page 21

THE STEIN & VINE OPENS BIN + BOARD—CASUAL DINING AT ITS FINEST

By Brian Bokor The Stein & Vine has The newly opened carved out a niche in the Bin + Board is now foBrandon/Riverview dincusing on growing its ing scene by offering not wine-centric concept. only a revolving menu Lacey said that feaunlike any other where tures coming soon will the quality and consisinclude “a wine club tency of the dishes are where members will always at the forefront, receive hand-selected but also an unrivaled bottles monthly along craft beer selection. with invitations to exFounded and owned by clusive events.” Also, Ty and Lacey Mathis, the “vendors will be invited couple knew they wantto host tastings where ed to expand on their you will be able to learn brand while at the same more about their wine time offer their guests Ty and Lacey Mathis, owners of Bran- and which foods pair something different, don-favorite Stein and Vine, recently best.” To-go charcuterie opened a new concept, Bin + Board, in and in late 2020, they selections will be availthe same plaza. opened Bin + Board. able, wherein you’ll be Both can be found in able to pick up plates Kings Row Shopping Cenof your favorite foods and ter on the southwest cordrinks and enjoy the Bin + ner Bloomingdale Ave. and Board experience wherever Kings Ave. you’d like.

Since 2012, The Stein & Currently open WednesVine has been the go-to spot for many day through Saturday, Lacey and Ty have when Mathis renovated the old Pirates plans to open Bin + Board on Sundays Cove and later expanded into Brandon’s soon to feature a special brunch menu. first and most successful gastropub. His “We would like to thank our employees background at Pepin Distributing con- for their hard work during the past 12 nected him with brewers around town, months as well as the community for supwhich is the secret to why the pub re- porting not only our restaurants, but also ceives many hard-to-find selections and all the other small businesses in the area. one-offs. Ty’s creativity in the kitchen Your support has meant a lot to us and comes through on a daily basis with a has allowed us and many other small busiseemingly endless selection of chef spe- nesses in our area to survive,” they said. cial soups, salads, appetizers, sandwiches Visit steinandvine.com, binandboard. and main courses to choose from, along com or their Facebook pages for more inwith items on the everyday menu. formation.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

COMING SOON: THE MOTOR ENCLAVE – AN AUTOMOTIVE COMMUNITY OFFERING EXCLUSIVE PRIVATELY OWNED GARAGES By Brian Bokor The Motor Enclave of Tampa, a 200-acre car enthusiast’s playground to include 300 private garages, a performance circuit, three off-road courses, a vehicle dynamics pad and a 35,000 sq. ft. corporate events center, is set to break ground this summer between the Tampa Executive Airport and I-75, just north of the I-75/I-4 interchange. The $100M project is led by Brad Oleshansky, corporate attorney and founder of M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan. Oleshansky spent 7 years building M1 into the largest privately owned garage community in the world until he sold it in 2019 to expand the concept across the United States under The Motor Enclave brand. Oleshansky is a two-time winner of the prestigious Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, the first time in 2012 for Big Communications and again in 2018 for M1 Concourse.

Tampa will be the first of several cities targeted for his concept, and when asked why here, Oleshansky replied, “the demand is here and the data supports it. The (Central) Tampa area has one of the largest concentrations of car enthusiasts in the county,” adding the location worked perfectly adjacent to the airport and major interchange and presented an opportunity to repurpose the underutilized vacant dairy farm into Tampa’s next destination location.

The 1.6-mile performance circuit was designed by world-renowned Formula One track designer Hermann Tilke, with Oleshansky telling me it will feature “Fourteen turns and a half-mile straight away. The 80acre off–road area will include a Rubicon Trail experience, a Rally Cross experience, a desert experience and a training course/

area. The area will also have hiking and mountain biking trails for members to explore. Owners will enjoy an on-site swimming pool as well as members lounge in the event center” as part of the extensive amenity package.

Oleshansky said there will be many opportunities for the public to visit the facility beginning with several free events, such as ‘Cars and Coffee,’ where guests are invited to enjoy a courtesy cup of coffee and view classic, luxury and exotic automobiles provided by local owners and sponsors. Other public events will include ‘Cars under the Stars,’ a variety of car shows and periodic food truck rallies.

Paid driving schools will be available, where individuals will be taught to drive both high-performance as well as off-road vehicles under the supervision of professionally trained instructors. The corporate events center will be available to rent for groups anywhere between 10 and 1,000 and will offer full-service amenities for its guests. All of the driving elements on the property are available for private rentals.

Public track days will also be scheduled at various times throughout the year, with users wishing to drive on the track being able to register when the opportunities arise.

For those interested in purchasing a garage, act fast as 150 of the planned 300 units have already been spoken for, with reservations coming from all parts of the country. The 25-foot-tall structures range from 625-2,400 square feet of ground floor space, allowing plenty of room to store cars below and create living/office arrangements above, including kitchens, bars and bathrooms. Units are sold as ‘white boxes,’ with interior design up to the end user. Examples of the endless garage possibilities as well as how to inquire about their avail-

ability can be found on The Motor Enclave’s website at www. themotorenclave.com.

Interested parties are encouraged to sign up for The Motor Enclave VIP list in order to stay informed about project progress and learn more about future events and public track options.

Oleshansky is also involved in several charitable organizations and wanted to invite all of our readers to join him and The Motor Enclave team, which includes Chas Ostezan and Winchester Stiens, on Saturday, May 1 for the inaugural ‘Road Rally for a Cure,’ benefitting the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Fourty-three cars will participate in a sheriff-escort-led rally from Nova University in Clearwater to Sparksman Wharf in Tampa, culminating in a public car show from 12 Noon-2 p.m. Please visit www.nationalpcf.org for additional information about this event and other ways to help beat pediatric cancer.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 23

Celebrating 40 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof?

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Page 24

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

with The Brenda Wade Team

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Kids’ Corner Pediatrics, PLLC Kids’ Corner Pediatrics, PLLC believes that raising a child is a rewarding and challenging experience for a parent. Its goal is to provide you with the best in pediatric care to ensure that your child’s full potential is reached. It treats all of its patients like family and strives to provide a facility and care that will make your child feel comfortable and safe so they’ll want to come back.

It offers services such as well-child visits—including immunizations and developmental/ behavioral screening—acute care, care of special health care needs and complex conditions and management of chronic conditions.

Kid’s Corner Pediatrics is located at 1114 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon and is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., with additional hours available by appointment. More information can be found at www.kidscornerpeds.com, by following its Facebook page at Kids’ Corner Pediatrics, PLLC or by calling 940-8140.

Tampa Bay Bin Cleaners Comes To You Tampa Bay Bin Cleaners provides a contactless curbside service with a 220-degree eco-friendly power wash to clean, disinfect and sanitize your trash and recycle bins, followed by an odor neutralizer. Its trucks are equipped with a two-tank system to eliminate any cross contamination when cleaning bins and the wastewater is collected and

removed away from your propBeach Blvd. in Ruskin. For more information, erty. You might be asking yourvisit www.latitudestours.com, and you can self—why is it important to reach it by calling 641-1311. have my trash and recycle bins Dr. Frank Sirchia Of Millennium Phyprofessionally cleaned? These sician Group Is Back bins are breeding grounds for Dr. Frank Sirchia of Millennium Physibacteria and diseases such as cian Group is back in practice. He has been salmonella, listeria and E. coli. practicing family medicine for 26 years in Using bleach and a garden hose Riverview with a focus on prevention and is not enough to kill the germs chronic disease management. He combines breeding in your trash bin, and, cutting-edge medicine and coordination of in addition, you are disposing care with a compassionate approach. He of hazardous wastewater back treats patients of all ages, offers sameDr. Frank Sirchia of Millennium day appointments and can accommodate onto your property where your Dr. Will Deliz recently opened Physician Group. family and pets play. Tampa Bay Deliz Dental Studio in Valrico. walk-ins. Dr. Sirchia speaks Italian, Spanish, Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico and is open French and English.

Bin Cleaners’ three-step process ensures your bins are 99.9 percent free of Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. SerMillennium Physician Group is located at germs and odors so you can enjoy your prop- vices offered include routine dental care, 6037 Winthrop Commerce Ave., Ste. 200 in erty without unwanted smells, germs and crowns, bridges, implants and Invisalign. To Riverview. Visit www.millenniumphysician. bacteria associated with unsan- make an appointment, call 755-1800. com or call 423-7123 for more information. itary trash and recycle bins.

Tampa Bay Bin Cleaners is Latitudes Tours Business Expansion Kona Ice Under New Ownership Latitudes Tours has always been known located at 10672 Bloomingdale Bringing tropical tunes and cups of shaved Ave., Ste. 102 in Riverview. Addi- for its guided eco-tours and sunset cruises ice everywhere it stops, Kona Ice of Brandon tional information can be found by boat where you can exis now under new ownerplore the Little Manatee River at www.TampaBayship. “We are ecstatic to and nearby nature preBinCleaners.com, on its Facebook join the Kona Ice family serve with its licensed page @TampaBayBinCleaners or and continue to make a captain and naturalist by calling 399-1931. positive impact on the as your guide. Currentcommunities that have ly, it has expanded its Deliz Dental Studio Opens come to know and love tours to include guidDr. Will Deliz believes that a visKona,” said Sandra PerNew owners of Kona Ice of ed kayak tours led by a Brandon. it to the dentist should feel more rine, the local resident who marine biologist as your like a relaxing vacation than a trip has teamed up with Chuck guide; these tours are now departing from and Cheryl Saxe. The dynamic trio now own to the DMV. His newly opened Deliz Dental Studio in Valrico helps people enjoy a unique, six local locations. For the landlubbers, it now and operate Kona Ice of Brandon. Equally aphighly personalized, one-of-a-kind dental ex- offers small group bus tours where you can pealing about the launch of Kona Ice of Branperience that feels like its doors opened just explore everything from popular Florida des- don is its philanthropic commitment to the tinations and activities to the beaches. for you. communities it serves. Perrine, Chuck and Latitudes Tours is conveniently 580 Bahia Cheryl are continuing the mobile franchise’s Deliz Dental Studio is located at 2448

Page 26

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... tradition of donating thousands of dollars each year to local school groups, teams and community organizations. As they book events with these groups, the trio pledges to give back a percentage from the proceeds.

To learn more about Kona Ice of Brandon and to book your next event, email it at brandonfl@kona-ice.com or call 505-1805.

in Hawaii, North Carolina, Washington DC, Sarasota and Tampa. Beach Geeks provides IT support for laptops, desktops, tablets, emails, websites and all of your computer/ technical needs, including website development, home wireless, cyber security and home theater troubleshooting and installation. It works with home users as well as small businesses, and has a 24x7x365 telephone help Watson Clinic Opens New desk that can remotely take over Office In Brandon your computer and resolve most isWatson Clinic is proud to insues without any in-person contact. troduce their singular brand of Dr. Felicia Hall with Equipment such as Dell, HP, Lenovo skincare to residents of Brandon the Watson Clinic and all software programs are also and surrounding communities. Dermatology at sold by Beach Geeks. In 2008, a home Brandon.

Watson Clinic Dermatology at theater division was added that proBrandon features the expertise of a Board vides installation, support, troubleshooting certified dermatology specialist, a highly for all AV and home networking equipment. qualified nursing staff and the latest treat- With thousands of residential, commercial ments and technologies to ensure healthy and government clients, it is eager to weland vibrant skin. “This is a convenient loca- come new clients and partnerships. tion in the center of the city where patients For more information, visit its website at can enjoy access to a diverse array of skin- www.beachgeeks.com or call 564-8469. care services, including annual evaluations, Visit on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ the detection and treatments of skin cancers, beachgeeks/. acne, eczema, psoriasis and other common disorders, derTrilogy Dive Center matologic surgery as well as “Buddies Up” With the most popular noninvasive Brandon Sports And facial rejuvenation options,” say Felicia Hall Aquatic Center MD. Dr. Hall is board-certified by the AmeriIn accordance with one of the first rules of can Board of Dermatology and is a member scuba diving to “never go it alone,” Brandon of the American Academy of Dermatology, Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) proudly American Society for Mohs Surgery and announces that it will be opening up its facilAmerican Medical Association. She has close ities to Trilogy Dive Center students. This will to 15 years of experience in private practice. include the weeklong scuba camps, which, The Watson Clinic Dermatology at Bran- after completion, the participant will receive don is located at 675 S. Kings Ave. Brandon. the SDI Open Water Dive Certification. This It is open Monday to Thursday 8:30 a.m. camp is limited to 12 students who must to 4:30 p.m. Additional information can be be over 10 years old to participate. BSAC, found on its website at www.watsonclinic. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is dedicated to comcom or by telephone on 655-3680. munity partnership and has made a practice of assisting other organizations who American Water Celebrates 29 share its values. As CEO Chuck Burgess Years In Business attests, the new partnership is more of Gary Bancroft, aka Gary, the Waa continuation than anything else, sayter Wizard, owner of American Waing that he’s eager to see Trilogy back ter & Windows, is celebrating being on the BSAC campus. one of the oldest water softening For more information on Trilogy Dive and water treatment companies in Center’s classes and camps, visit www.

Tampa Bay. It has been in business for 29 trilogyscuba.com. BSAC is located at 405 years. During that time, it has won numerous Beverly Blvd. in Brandon and its website is awards, including Brandon Small Business of www.mybsac.org. the Year finalist and Best of Brandon 2014.

American Water & Windows offers a free Meridian Senior Living To Debut check-up of your water softener system and Amenity-Rich Community In Brandon can save you up to 50 percent compared to Senior living with passion, energy and inother companies. To arrange for a visit, call spiration is coming to Tampa. The Meridian 684-7873. For more information, visit its at Brandon, located at 9215 Causeway Blvd. website at www.americanwaterusa.com. in Tampa, is now accepting reservations for supportive independent living, assisted livRibbon-Cutting At Raulerson Dental ing and memory care services. Managed by Associates national seniors housing operator Meridian Raulerson Dental Associates is proud to Senior Living, The Meridian is a new, amenihave celebrated the opening of its new of- ty-rich, vibrant senior living community curfice with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and rently under construction. It will feature 136 open house. The brand-new office is located supportive independent living, assisted living at 510 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon and has been and memory care residences over 117,000 built from the ground up with careful con- square feet. Beautiful, bright amenity spaces sideration for the patients’ needs and com- underscore the community’s focus on active fort and equipped with the latest technology. living: daily engaging and social activities, an Founded in 1986 under a different name by exceptional dining experience with multiple Dr. Bell and his successors, Dr. Ruscin, Dr. dining options and venues and the highest Schreier and Dr. John Raulerson, the practice quality care. The Meridian has taken out all has been a staple in the community for over the stops to make this into a premier place 30 years. In 2014, Dr. Raulerson became the for seniors to call home. “The Meridian won’t sole owner of the practice and it became be a place to stay in,” said Stacy McCanless, known as Raulerson Dental Associates. executive director of The Meridian. “It’s a Raulerson Dental Associates is a family place to meet new friends and create a lifedentistry practice specializing in cosmetic, style that’s perfect for you.” prophylactic and restorative treatments. For To learn more, call 540-5946 or visit more information, visit raulersondental.com www.themeridianatbrandon.com. or call 681-7183.

Marjon Specialty Foods Hiring Event Beach Geeks Offers Technical Support Marjon Specialty Foods is holding a hiring And Much More event at the Marjon Warehouse, located at Beach Geeks was founded in 2003 under 3508 Sydney Rd. in Plant City, from 11 a.m.the simple philosophy that it will handle your 3 p.m. Bring your resume and get a job. For technology so you can focus on your business more information, visit www.marjonspecialor even go to the beach; it now has locations tyfoods.com or call 752-3482.

You Are Invited FACIAL BEAUTY INFORMATIONAL SEMINAR Sun City Center Club Renaissance Wednesday, May 12th @ 2pm 2121 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.

CALL NOW

Page 27

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY OPTIONS TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED Have you got the calendar ready?

Last summer, most children’s fun plans were affected by the pandemic, but this year, organizations all over the area are ready to keep children active, engaged and, most importantly, safe during the time off school.

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

We asked local camps what they are doing to keep students healthy while giving them the summer of fun they deserve.

At Music Showcase, music and theater take the stage, and so can your child. Musicals will be offered where your child can hold starring roles in popular musicals offered by the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up.

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

A Child’s Haven offers kitchen-pre-

pared meals and various activities for children in kindergarten through fifth grade.

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

Specialty camps for soccer (Florida Hawks FC), baseball (Ostingers Academy)

basketball and flag football (FishHawk Fellowship Church) and art (Center Place) also offer great opportunities for creative and athletic summer learning.

Kids ‘R’ Kids at Circa FishHawk and Valrico offer full and half-day summer fun with weekly field trips and themes.

What better skill to learn in the summer than scuba diving and Trilogy Dive Center makes it easy with a week-long course for children 10 and older with pick up from BSAC in Brandon.

After 16 years of bringing successful STEM camps to the Brandon area, Tech-

Playzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place and virtually for families who prefer to stay at home.

For dates, prices and registration information on these camps and more, turn the pages, enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Our staff has also compiled information on the COVID-19 policies from temperature checks to sanitation procedures for these camps to help you feel confident on where you want to send your children this summer.

Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ospreyobserver.com.

Did we miss a great summer camp option?

Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) kquesada@ ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online.

Have a great summer of fun!

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

FLORIDA ACADEMY OF THE PERFORMING ARTS AT MUSIC SHOWCASE HOSTS A VARIETY OF SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS

By Kelly Wise Valdes Summer is right around the corner and campers can sign up for music-oriented many families are already looking for fun camps where they can experience differsummer camp activities for their children. ent instruments, voice, acting, dance and Summer camps build memories and friend- art. Camps are structured by age, ability ships that can last a lifetime. If you have and interests. The benefits of participating an aspiring actor, musician or entertainer in arts education include improved acain your family, demic performance and then the Floriincreased self-esteem. da Academy of Danielle Sanchez, the Performing director of FAOPA, is Arts (FAOhappy to offer families PA) at Music programs that allow Showcase is their children a unique exactly what summer camp you’re looking experience. for.

“It’s great seeTo keep eving the students The Florida Academy of the eryone safe, many progress so Performing Arts is hosting protocols are be- its annual summer camp quickly in their ing implemented, programs at Music Showcase in Brandon. Regis- craft, come together as including masks, a team and form friendtration begins in mid-March. limited camp sizes ships that last a lifetime,” and temperature checks. Students will be said Sanchez. “We hear from the parents able to bring their own food and beverages and students that they like the energy, the (labeled with their name). professionalism, the sense of inclusion and There are many camp options, including belonging, the opportunity to work with full and half-day camps for musical theater talented and loving directors and the variwith full performances at the end and cos- ety of programming and activities.” tumes, props and set designs. Some of the The Florida Academy of Performing Arts musicals that will be performed are Honk is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonder- was established to support the performing land Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musi- arts through programs at the academy and cal Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway in the community. for the Decades and The Addams Family.

Camp registration opens in mid-March.

Also offered is an a cappella camp, For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org Broadway boot camp, acting intensives or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is locatand acting improv camp. In addition, ed at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

Florida Hawks FC Summer Camp

“Soccer Fun with Coach Juan”

Page 28

BSAC’S SUMMER CAMP PRESENTS THIS YEAR’S THEME: PEACE, LOVE AND HIGH 5

By Hayley Fedor

Let the fun families during and games bethe pandemic. gin because the Hand sanitizing Brandon Sports stations will and Aquatic be provided Center (BSAC) throughout the is getting ready property and to welcome masks are manback children datory upon grades K 5 entry. Both parthrough sixth ticipants and for Camp High staff will also 5 this summer. undergo a temBSAC is doperature check ing something at the start of special with the each day at camp this year the camp. and taking a In light Camp High 5 keeps children Retro Approach of the panengaged and energized with a to their camp demic, this variety of activities. theme.

Peace, summer, Love & High5 Kicks off June 1st, 2021.

BSAC will Each week will feature a different theme be capping based off of a musical era, starting in the the camp at 50s and working all the way up to today.

200 particiAt BSAC and through Camp High 5, chil- pants. dren are able to participate in a variety of Camp High 5 will begin on Monday, June recreations that are based around aquat- 1st and will be in session on weekdays, ics, arts and crafts as well as sports.

Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

“A lot of what our kids do is the aquatic at BSAC, which is located at 405 Beverly time so they’re in the pool, but they’re also Blvd. in Brandon. Registration is currently outdoors participating in sports and rec- open and will be available until each week reational activities,” said Chuck Burgess, of the camp has reached its capacity.

CEO. To register your child for camp or to find Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking out more information about Camp High 5 extra preventative measures this summer and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Cento ensure the safety of participants and ter, visit https://www.mybsac.org/camp.

WWW.CAMPOSPREY.COM -6860

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Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex Lithia FL

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

Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.

Session 1 Session 2 June 7-11 (M-F) June 21-25 (M-F)

Session 3 July 12- 16 (M-F)

Session 4 July 26- 30 (M-F)

Location:

$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2021 $225.00 if registered after April 15, 2021 CAMP FEATURES:

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

M-W Ostingers Academy • 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Road Th-F Field for games and other activities Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs Space is Limited Register Early Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to hold your spot!

Cost: $235/camper $200/ multi camp or multi child discount *Must register for multi camp discount all at once

Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:

Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com

Page 29

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 4

SAFE AND FUN SUMMER CAMPS AT YMCA

KIDS ‘R’ KIDS PREPARES FOR A FUN SUMMER

By Libby Hopkins

By Libby Hopkins

Camp 2021, based on recommendations from the CDC and local health officials come June,” Llerena said.

“We are in constant communiYMCA is gearing up for a safe, fun summer with their upcomcation with our ing camps. Many COVID-19 safety protocols are in place to camper families ensure campers are safe while attending camps this summer. and will send “Summer is the ideal time for kids to get them vital information up, get out and explore. But, for some kids, and policies about all summer means no access to recreational the extra precautions we are taking to preand educational activities. That’s why the vent the spread of COVID-19 at our camps.

Tampa YMCA offers summer camp, to We want parents to feel as comfortable as make sure kids and teens in the Tampa Bay possible with our camping process.” area are adventurous, active and healthy Before children and staff are checked in, this summer,” said Tampa Metropolitan their temperatures are taken for the safeArea YMCA Senior Communications Directy and well-being of others in the camp. tor Lalita Llerena. “At the YMCA, we know Those running a temperature of 100.4-plus that when kids accomplish more, make new degrees cannot attend. There will also be friends and feel like they belong, they are staggered curbside check-in. developing the skills they need to be sucCampers will remain in same low ratio cessful in life.” groups throughout the week. There will Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, be “individual and spaced out activities to fun day camp program this summer. “YMCA practice safe social distancing where posSummer Camp is led by a team of kind, sible when inside and limited sharing of trustworthy individuals committed to cresupplies,” Llerena said.

“There will be ample ating a safe place for campers to practice access to handwashing and hand sanitizsocial skills and character values,” Llerena er stations, especially at check-in, before said. “Our values-based camp curriculum meals and after restroom use.

YMCA staff will help campers develop self-reliance, a intentionally teach and encourage good love for the outdoors, positive attitudes and values that build character and leadership, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and all amidst the fun of swimming, creative follow a strict sick child/staff policy.” In arts, crafts, sports, outdoor nature educa- Hillsborough County, all staff and members (ages 5 and up) are required to wear a face tion and field games.”

The YMCA is focused on COVID-19 safe- covering indoors while not exercising or ty for its summer camps as well. “Safety participating in youth sports.

Visit www.tampaymca.org/letscamp. protocols will continue for YMCA Summer

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy pro- Kids is excited to kick off Summer Camp vides a secure, nurturing and educational Focus on Fun,” Fernandes said. “Week after environment for children. Its school is a week of awesome activities are designed place for children to bloom into responsi- around a variety of engaging themes. It’s ble, considerate and contributing members all about double the fun, double the smiles of society. “With a and double the memories.” love of children at Each week of camp offers our core, each Kids a different theme and each ‘R’ Kids facility is camp has COVID-19 safety family-owned and protocols in place. “We will operated by local continue to monitor this residents to enrapidly evolving situation sure a solid sense and follow the recommenof community,” dations of the World Health said Owner Ben Organization, Public Health Fernandes. “Kids Departments, CDC, Child ‘R’ Kids Learning Care Licensing, state and loKids ‘R’ Kids offers a variety of weekly Academies are na- themed summer camps. All COVID-19 cal officials,” Fernandes said. tionally renowned “The safety and well-being of safety protocols and procedures are and our academy in place to ensure campers’ safety this the children in our care, their summer. is proud to be part families and our staff are our of your community. We desire the abso- highest priority and is at the core of our lute best for the children in our care and, Kids ‘R’ Kids mission and policies. We have therefore, we provide a safe and secure, been the pioneers in providing the best state-of-the-art environment with on-site in safety features and procedures, and owners.” we will continue to lead the way. We are COVID-19 safety is a priority with Fer- keeping our camp sizes small, masks are nandes and his staff. “During the pandem- required indoors and social distancing will ic, we went virtual,” Fernandes said. “Now be practiced.” we are focusing on our kids having a safe Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from and fun summer. We know a lot of our kids Tuesday, June 1 through Friday, August had cabin fever over the last few months 6. Spaces are limited for their camps. If and now we want them to get outside and you’d like to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids’ enjoy their summer.” camps, visit www.kidsrkids.com/valrico/ Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer pro- programs/summer-camp or call 657-6200. grams in 2004 and since then it has grown The campus is located at 4321 Lynx Paw to offer a variety of programming. “Kids ‘R’ Trl. in Valrico.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

FishHawk Fellowship Church Offers Basketball And More Sports lovers take note. FishHawk Fellowship Church is hosting a sports camp this summer, which will include soccer, flag football and basketball.

In order to prioritize safety, the camp will be limited to 100 attendees and masks will be mandated during sign-in and checkin, but playtime will not require masks. All camp materials and equipment will be sanitized daily and campers are asked to bring their own snacks.

FishHawk Fellowship Church is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia and can be reached at 655-7431. For more information, visit www.fishhawkfc.org/ sports.

Soccer Fun With Coach Juan If your athlete is looking for a fun way to improve soccer skills this summer, look no further that the Florida Hawks Futbol Club’s Soccer Fun with Coach Juan camp taking place from Monday to Friday, July 5-9 at the FishHawk Sports Complex.

The camp is open to boys and girls born between 2009 and 2014.

According to Juan de Brigard, director of coaching, the camp will have a limit of 96 campers and groups no larger than 12 players, with one coach

and one helper, temperature check stations and strict policies about not coming to camp with any symptoms or sharing equipment.

To learn more, visit www.floridahawksfc.com.

Trilogy Dive Center Offers Scuba Certification Camps What better opportunity than a summer camp to learn to scuba dive? Trilogy Dive Center is offering weeklong scuba certification camps at Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) for children 10 and older.

The camp includes transportation from BSAC, classroom academics and all equipment during the class.

COVID-19 protocols include small class sizes (maximum of 12 students), masks required indoors, handwashing and sanitizer stations, temperature checks on arrival and cleaning and sanitization of all equipment.

To learn more, visit www.TrilogyScuba.com or call 425-3500.

Ostingers Invites Baseball Players For Four Camp Sessions With a combined 30 years of professional playing and coaching experience, Ostingers Baseball coaches are ready to provide little athletes with safe fun this summer.

Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players 7-14 years of

K5-5th Grade Arts & Crafts • Friendship Play • Academic Summer Fun • Music Sports & Games • Character & Manners • Ice Cream Social • Pizza Parties Bouncy House & Giant Slide • Outdoor Water Play

$115/wk (Upcoming K5 - 5th Grade Campers)

Includes Weekly Field Trip & All Activities

www.MorningGloryPreschool.org

age. There will be a ratio of no more than 5:1 campers to instructors, allowing for more social distancing, instruction and reps during the camp.

All campers must wear masks while in instruction groupings, even when social distancing. While outside, players can remove their masks if they are able to socially distance themselves during small group work.

There will be hand sanitizing stations and the academy will be disinfected before the day begins and after the day is over each day. When arriving at camp each morning, all campers and instructors will be given a temperature check to make sure there are no issues.

To learn more, visit www.OstingBaseball. com or call 737-3000.

TechPlayzone Celebrates 16 Years Of STEM Camps After 16 years of bringing successful STEM camps to the Brandon area, TechPlayzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place. Camps will begin in July and will run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon for rising second through fifth grade students. Afternoon sessions with a virtual option will also be available.

COVID-19 protocols include temperature checks, regular sanitization, masks and small group sizes (four to five campers per group all week).

Page 30

To learn more, visit www.techplayzone. com or call 444-2267.

BSAC Highlights Music For Annual Camp Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) is getting ready to welcome back children grades K5 through sixth for Camp High 5 this summer.

BSAC is doing something special with the camp this year by highlighting music and incorporating musical components throughout the event; the grand theme for the summer is called Peace, Love and High 5.

Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking extra preventative measures this summer to ensure the safety of participants and families during the pandemic. Hand sanitizing stations will be provided throughout the property and masks are mandatory upon entry. Both participants and staff will also undergo a temperature check at the start of each day at the camp.

For more information about Camp High 5 and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, visit mybsac.org.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Summer Camp And More Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer programs in 2004 and since then it has grown to offer a variety of programming.

Page 31

Each week of camp offers a different theme and each camp has COVID-19 safety protocols in place. The organization is continuing to monitor recommendations of the World Health Organization, Public Health Departments, CDC, Child Care Licensing, state and local officials and is keeping camp sizes small, masks are required indoors and social distancing will be practiced.

Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from Tuesday to Friday, June 1 through August 6.

Spaces are limited for its camps. For more Performing Arts Camp To Be Held At Music Showcase The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase will offer many camp options, including full and halfday camps for musical theater with full performances at the end and costumes, props and set designs. Some of the musicals that will be performed are Honk Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonderland Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musical Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway for the Decades and The Addams Family.

To keep everyone safe, many protocols are being implemented, including masks, limited camp sizes and temperature checks. Students will be able to bring their own food and beverages (labeled with their name).

For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

YMCA Has Camps For All Following a very successful summer in 2020, where the YMCA safely served more than 12,000 campers across Hillsborough and Eastern Pasco Counties, the Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, fun day camp program this summer. With locations throughout the area offering activities from fishing to arts and crafts and much more, the YMCA has something to offer children ages 6 and older with most interests.

Before children and staff are checked in, their temperatures are taken for the safety and well-being of others in the camp. Those running a temperature of 100.4-plus degrees cannot attend. There will also be staggered curbside check-in.

Lower ratio camp groups spread throughout the whole facility. Campers will remain in their same groups throughout the week.

To learn more about the YMCA Summer Camps or to register, visit www.tampaymca. org/letscamp.

Morning Glory Preschool Offers Weekly Field Trips & More From arts and crafts to friendship parties and academic summer fun, Morning Glory Preschool offers summer fun

for your elementary school-aged child.

Safety measures include masks at all times apart from dining, handwashing, temperature checks and complete daily sanitization of the building.

Children at the camp will enjoy music, sports and games, outdoor water play and pizza parties.

The preschool is located at 6001 Christy Ln., off Bloomingdale Ave. near U.S. 301.

To learn more call 628-0541 or visit www.

MorningGloryPreschool.com.

Camp Osprey Features Safe Adventures An all-inclusive overnight adventure camp, with day camper options, Camp Osprey is opening again this summer with a safe way to keep your kids, ages 7-15, entertained and happy.

The camp, which offers activities such as horseback riding, paintball, high ropes, canoeing, archery, fishing and more, was open last year and is following CDC safety guidelines.

Safety measures include temperature checks, handwashing, sanitization, staff serving meals and water bottles getting washed and bleached daily.

The camp is located at 18050 U.S. 301 in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-

Volume 16, Issue 4

928-6860. For more information, visit www. camposprey.com.

Dance, Music And Theater At The Straz With Patel Conservatory

If your camper is interested in the performing arts, check out the weekly camps offered through the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center.

The group offers camps and classes for all ages and skill levels with dance, music and theater options.

Masks will be mandatory at the camp and the group will practice social distancing. Regular handwashing is encouraged throughout the day and a hand sanitizer is provided upon entry into the conservatory and located in every classroom. There will be daily temperature checks and a health screening questionnaire required to be complete by all campers and staff, and camp start times are staggered, as is camper drop-off.

The Straz Center has received a seal of approval from Tampa General Hospital’s consulting service, TGH Prevention Response Outreach (TPRO), for campus-wide reopening protocols.

To learn more, visit www.patelconservatory.org or call 222-1040.

April 2021

For ages 8 - 99

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 32

Weekly Themed Horse Back Riding Camps Hands On Experience & Education

Come learn about: RIDING • GROOMING The Learning Experience Monday - Friday Camps 9 A.Is M. toNow 2 P.M. Enrolling For Summer Fun

With Friday Educational Field Trips!

For safe, summer fun and learning, check out The Learning Experience in FishHawk.

Now enrolling for the summer, The Learning Experience is following state regulations for camp size and social distancing based on age groups. All staff members are required to wear masks and parents must also wear them when dropping off and picking up their children. Masks are optional for children 3 and older.

Two snacks and one lunch are provided and handwashing stations and sanitizers are available.

Daily Sanitation protocols are enforced, including weekly electrostatic spraying.

There are also daily temperature checks for both children and staff.

The camp is located at 16232 Bayberry Glen Dr. in Lithia. Call 681-5544 for more information.

open to ages 8 to 99, is located only 10 minutes from FishHawk at 4325 E. Keysville Rd. in Lithia. Visit TLCSfarms.com.

A Child’s Haven Offers Fun And Safe Summer Programs With kitchen-prepared meals, weekly themes and a variety of activities, A Child’s Haven in Valrico has a full-time camp for children in kindergarten through fifth grade.

The Florida Gold Seal School has a detailed COVID-19 protocol that includes temperature checks twice a day, handwashing for anyone entering the building and mask expectations for children 5 and older and all teachers and parents. building is also com(Deposit required to reserveThe your spotcamp .) pletely sanitized every day.

T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven Offers A Child’s Haven is located Hands-On Fun at 1520 Brentwood Do you have Hills Blvd. in Valrico a horse lover at and can be reached at home? If so, check 684-1622. For more out T.L.C.’s Gypsy information, visit www.

Haven’s summer AChildsHavenSchool. camps.

Running com. weekly from late May until early Impact Taekwondo Center OfAugust, the camp offers small groups the fers Learning And Fun opportunity to learn about horses in an Students can learn important life skills outdoor, socially distanced setting. Faciliwhile having fun and staying safe this ties are cleaned regularly and groups are summer at Impact Taekwondo Center. no larger than 10.

Located in Riverview on Boyette Rd., Masks are not required because campthe center is offering a camp that will ers are outside only. The camp, which is

May 31st - August 2nd We are just ten minutes east of FishHawk!

4325 Keysvil e Rd., Lithia Call Tammi at 813.842.4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:

TLCSFARMS.COM

teach self-defense, Taekwondo skills, field trips and the opportunity to make new friends.

Masks will be worn in c l a s s rooms and where a six-foot physical distance can not be maintained. There will be sanitizer in each classroom and hands will be washed or sanitized after each activity and before lunch and snacks. There will also be temperature checks at drop-off and after lunch. Call 952-8053 or visit www.impacttkdriverview.com.

Dancing For Donations Teaches All Abilities Are you looking for a summer experience like no other? Dancing for Donations offers classes and activities that are all-inclusive, serving kids of all abilities. Children with special needs are not separated from their peers, but instead accommodated in any way they may need (noise-canceling headphones, social stories, buddy, assistance with class/camps activities). It also welcomes therapists to join in. In addition to accommodating students where they are at, the classes teach all children to be accepting of one another and embrace differences. The hope is to help grow confidence, friend-

ships, acceptance and understanding through dance and other inclusive activities.

To learn more, visit dancing4donations.org or call 601-3009.

Sports And More At The MAC Gym The MAC Gym in Brandon is offering basketball, volleyball and soccer camps in June and July. The camps are open for 7 to 14-year-olds, varying by camp.

The camps run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon, with breaks for snack and water available.

The MAC Gym has worked hard to stay COVID-free and has made precautions to keep its members safe. Again this year, its camps will be modified to help implement physical distancing as much as possible.

In addition, temperatures will be checked daily.

To learn more or to get the registra-

tion form, visit https://themacgym.org/ summer-sports-camps/. The MAC Gym is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon and can be reached at 315-3280.

Page 33

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

CEDARKIRK CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF FAITH BUILDING & FUN

By Taylor Wells

Founded in the summer 12th grade, families of 1971, Cedarkirk, a local and adults with intelyear-round Presbyterian lectual and developcamp and conference cenmental disabilities. The ter, is celebrating its 50th programs have a varianniversary. It is a place ety of activities, which apart where individuals and can include Bible study, groups can experience spiriworshiping together, tual growth and renewal as leadership training, well as faith-building fun, kayaking, campfires, worship and exciting activarts and crafts, field ities in 170 acres of woodgames, swimming, arlands, wetlands and uplands. chery and more.

“We see our mission as A father and daughter get geared up for Shick said that, as a a trip down the zip line. giving people a place where former camper of Cethey can step out of the busyness and stress darkirk, “I learned my faith at church, but I and the routines of their everyday life and learned to live it at Cedarkirk, and so I think, spend some time in the woods building com- for me, one of the most special things [about munity and drawing close to God,” said Mat- Cedarkirk] is finding out how to put into thew Shick, executive director of Cedarkirk. practice what it is that we believe.”

According to its website, “Our facilities He also thinks the camp is special because, are used for retreats, meetings, conferences, as a camper, he lived alongside others from leadership training, camping, outdoor ex- an entirely different socioeconomic bracket, periences and more. We serve a variety of letting him understand the differences in church-related groups, family reunions, pub- their lives, but also find many commonalities lic and private schools, community service and connect with them. agencies and nonprofit organizations.”

For the future, Cedarkirk is campaigning Cedarkirk is open, but only for small to raise $4 million for a new office wing, groups, and it is requiring social distancing new residential building and new dining hall, and masks when in groups, among other which will have more space and better acsafety procedures. Cedarkirk could not offer cessibility. summer camp in 2020, but it is glad to welCedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman come guests back this year, though at 50 Dr. in Lithia on the Alafia River. Call 685percent capacity.

4224 or visit https://cedarkirk.org/, www.

Cedarkirk has several camp programs for facebook.com/cedarkirk/ or www.instadifferent groups, including those in first to gram.com/cedarkirk/.

Volume 16, Issue 4

THE BLOOMINGDALE YOUTH SPORTS ASSOCIATION CHARTERS A BAMBINO BUDDY-BALL LEAGUE

By Lily Belcher

The Bloomingdale 5 to 20-year-olds to parYouth Sports Assoticipate in short, noncomciation is more than petitive games to encourjust a home to travel age physical activity and baseball and softball friendships among teamteams, it is an orgamates. Games last four nization that proinnings or 90 minutes vides athletes with (whichever comes first) the opportunity to and Bambino Buddy-Ball foster their love of emphasizes the relaxed sports in a safe and feel of the games by proencouraging environhibiting scorekeeping and ment. One of the procompetition between grams offered by the managers.

Through the Bambino Buddy-Ball volunteer assists Bloomingdale Youth relaxed and friendly atathlete during his at-bat.

Sports Association is Bambino Buddy-Ball. mosphere of the games, athletes and budBambino Buddy-Ball was founded in dies experience constructive and sports2000 to “encompass players who are ei- manlike friendships to “develop confidence ther physically and/or mentally challenged and positive self-esteem.” and yearn to play the game of softball and In many divisions, players are assigned baseball.” a buddy—a volunteer (usually a family The program is part of the Babe Ruth member or high school student) to assist League, which is affiliated with the base- the players with fielding, batting and basball and softball leagues of the Blooming- erunning during the games. Parents of the dale Youth Sports Association. The Babe athletes can indicate whether their child Ruth League celebrates its 70th anniver- will need a buddy and the extent to which sary this year and is one of the premier the buddy will have to assist their athlete baseball and softball leagues for children on the field. High school volunteers receive worldwide. service hours by assisting players and the “Babe was a man who loved children and team throughout the season, which conbaseball,” Claire Ruth, the second wife of sists of weekly games. baseball legend Babe Ruth, said. “He could For more information on Bambino Budreceive no greater tribute than to have a dy-Ball or the Bloomingdale Youth Sports youth baseball program named after him.” Association, visit bysafl.com or email bysaThe Bambino Buddy-Ball division allows florida@gmail.com.

Summer Camp 2021 5 Weeks of Camp Center Place Brandon 619 Vonderburg Dr, Suite B Brandon, FL 33511

9am - 12noon

Rising 2nd-5th Grade Campers

3pm - 5pm Virtual Camp

Virbela and Minecraft

$150.00 per week Mon-Fri Starting: July 5th July 12th July 19th July 26th Aug 2nd

License# CHC433643

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

April 2021

Page 34

ARTISTS RETURN HOME TO CENTER PLACE

By Libby Hopkins

Former Center Place artists Greg Manley, Judy Johnson, Ron Grote, Meletha Everett and Doreen Donovan, haven’t taught classes at Center Place for more than a year or two.

They are all thrilled that they can again teach art at Center Place. Classes resumed on April 5 this year.

When the new and former artists of Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association came together for a meeting on March 12 of this year to discuss new spring programming at the center, there was one statement that was said over and over again: “I feel like I’ve come home.”

Many of the former artists, such as Greg Manley, Doreen Donovan, Judy Johnson, Ron Grote and Meletha Everett, haven’t taught classes at Center Place for more than a year or two. “I’m just happy to be back at Center Place,” Manley said. “It’s been a part of me for so long and I’m thrilled to be back because our community needs a place to do art. Especially with what everyone has been through with the pandemic.”

Manley will be offering three adult painting classes on Monday. They are Contemporary Acrylic Painting, Mixed Media 2-Dimensional Art and an Art Therapy class.

Donovan is thrilled to be teaching her Pixie Painters and Jump Start to Art children’s classes at Center Place on Tuesday afternoons. “I am so excited to be back and to see the kids taking art classes again at Center Place,” Donovan said. “I’m also thrilled that the Brandon League of Fine Arts can call Center Place their home again.

I know the league is excited about

REGISTER NOW! Ages K5

having their programming back at the center as well.”

Johnson and Everett are two of the original art instructors from when Center Place first opened.

“I was one of the first few teachers here at Center Place,” Everett said. “I have seen the center go through many transformations and I’m happy that it will continue to be a part of the community.” Everett will again be teaching her adult Watercolors class on Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Johnson will be teaching her adult Oil Painting class on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon. “I’m

just happy to be teaching again,” Johnson said. “I can’t wait to see my former students, and hopefully some new ones too.”

Grote is looking forward to returning to teaching his Graphite Drawing and Colored Pencil Drawing classes for teens and adults on Tuesdays. “I’m happy that the center will still be a part of the community,” Grote said.

“I’m also happy to be doing art again at Center Place.”

All of the classes offered at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association cost $45 for four sessions. If you are interested in taking any of the art classes mentioned, please call Center Place at 685-8888 to register for a class.

SUMMER CAMP AT

T.L.C.’S GYPSY HAVEN!

through

NOW REGISTERING Limited Space (10 spots weekly) Call TODAY!

5th Grade

For ages 8 - 99 Weekly Themed Horse Back Riding Camps Hands On Experience & Education

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You pick which camps to attend. weekly field trip for K5 - 5th grade

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Weekly Fee for K5 - 5th Grade

Includes ALL Field Trips & Activity Fees

Healthy Lunch and Snacks Fun Academic Summer Studies Character Building Awesome Friendships Arcade Recreation Room Tons of Fun Activities

A Child’s Haven

1520 Brentwood Hills Blvd, Valrico S of Hwy 60, N or Lumsden, off Mt. Carmel • CHC 404

www.AChildsHavenSchool.com

Come learn about: RIDING • GROOMING Monday - Friday Camps 9 A.M. to 2 P.M.

With Friday Educational Field Trips!

May 31st - August 2nd We are just ten minutes east of FishHawk!

4325 Keysville Rd., Lithia Call Tammi at 813.842.4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com (Deposit required to reserve your spot.)

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:

TLCSFARMS.COM

Page 35

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

BRANDON BALLET TO PRESENT MIXED REPERTOIRE PERFORMANCE AS FINAL PRODUCTION OF THE SEASON forest of the Middle Ages. We find a graveyard filled with the spirits of women who died after being betrayed by their lovers. These women, the Wilis, led by Myrta—their queen—are summoned from their graves to initiate the new arrival, Giselle. When Giselle’s lover, Albrecht, arrives at her grave in mourning, Myrta and Dancers from the Brandon Ballet, including the Wilis target him for death, (from left to right) Audrey Scheller, Rebekah Hancock, Edmarylis Alverio and Mariela Morales, will but Giselle’s love saves him from present a mixed repertoire performance called The Agony their reins, leaving him only with and the Ecstasy on Saturday, May 1. the memory of Giselle and her eternal love.

The Brandon Ballet will present their A synopsis of Paquita shows dancers next production, The Agony and the Ecpresenting the ‘Grand Pas Classique’ verstasy, on Saturday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m. at sion of this ballet where an ensemble of Riverview High School, located at 113311 12 dancers supports a main couple in a Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Tickets are feat of technical bravura and stylized artavailable online at www.brandonballet. istry.

Filled with ensemble, small group org. The cost is $35 for adults, $25 for and solo sections, this ballet and music children under 12 years old and $15 for highlight the celebratory playfulness homeschool students. Tickets are availfound in grand ballet. able at the door for $35.

Townend said, “The premiere of The AgHannah Townend, the administrative ony and the Ecstasy is especially unique director for the Brandon Ballet, said, “The in that a percentage of the proceeds from Brandon Ballet is excited to return to the ticket sales will be donated to a local food theater for our fourth and final perforbank.

By attending this performance, pamance of the 27th season. The talented trons will be supporting two nonprofit ordancers of this local ballet company will ganizations at once.” present a mixed repertoire performance.”

In keeping with CDC guidelines, masks Townend added, “The performance is are required to enter and social distanccomposed of excerpts from two ballets: ing protocols will be enforced in the seatGiselle, Act II, and Paquita, as well as ing arrangement. an original contemporary ballet work by For more information, please visit www. guest choreographer Marquis Floyd.” brandonballet.org.

A synopsis of Giselle finds us in a hidden

www.krkvalrico.com

Volume 16, Issue 4

FLORIDA HOUSING FINANCE CORPORATION ANNOUNCES STATEWIDE ART CONTEST FOR CHILDREN The Florida Once the drawHousing Finance ing is completCorporation has ed, children can announced the upload an image launch of its of their artwork statewide art and submit it contest. The cononline or mail test is for chiltheir drawing. To dren ages 5 to submit the entry 18. Children are online, please invited to submit Children ages 5 to 18 are invited to design a piece of art- visit www.flora drawing that work that depicts their vison of ‘What Does Home Mean idahousing.org/ depicts their vi- To You?’ for the Florida Housing Finance Corporation’s artcontest. Stustatewide art contest. sion of this year’s dents can mail theme, which is ‘What Does Home Mean the entry to Florida Housing Finance CorTo You?’. The deadline to submit an entry poration, Attn: External Affairs Departis Monday, May 3. ment, 227 N. Bronough St., # 5000, TallaThe purpose of the contest is to increase hassee, FL 32301. awareness on the importance of having a The Florida Housing Finance Corporation home by encouraging children across the will have an evaluation committee who will state to use their imaginations to illustrate select the top 40 winners in late May. The what their home truly means. A Florida winning artworks will be announced on Housing Finance Corporation committee the Florida Housing Finance Corporation’s will review all designs and select the top webpage. Winners will also be announced 40, which will then be prominently dis- on social media, and the artwork will be played in the Florida Housing Finance Cor- displayed in the in the Florida Housing Fiporation building in Tallahassee in honor of nance Corporation building throughout the National Homeownership Month in June. month of June.

“We are excited to kick off this statewide The Florida Housing Finance Corporaart contest at a time when having a place tion was created by the Florida State Legto call home is more important now than islature 40 years ago. The Florida Housing ever before,” said Trey Price, executive Finance Corporation is the state of Floridirector of Florida Housing Finance Cor- da’s housing finance agency (HFA) that poration. “Leading up to National Home- administers state and federal resources ownership Month, Florida Housing wanted to help provide affordable homeownership to bring back this fun initiative to engage and rental housing options for the citizens with kids while also increasing awareness of Florida. of the need and significance of quality, afFor more information, please visit www. fordable housing for all Floridians,” added floridahousing.org.

Price.

www.krkcirca.com

Page 36

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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Volume 16, Issue 4