Brandon/Winthrop
Monday-S Sund
See Page 32 11
May 2021
Volume 16,
Issue 5
Ph: 657-2418
CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
SCOUT AND CANCER SURVIVOR COMPLETES EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT
By Michelle Caceres
addition to raising $1,500 in monetary donations, The Home Depot donated all the lumber, Lowe’s donated all the paint and supplies and TMI Nursery donated the soil for the gardens. Life Scout Sean Covais completed his Eagle Scout project at Rotary’s Camp Florida in Riverview.
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
Sean said there were many lessons learned during the experience. “I learned that I can command a large group and I’m a better leader that I thought I was,” he said. In all, the experience was a positive one. To earn the Eagle Scout rank, the highest advancement rank in Scouting, a Boy Scout must fulfill requirements in the areas of leadership, service and outdoor skills. He (or she) advances through the ranks—Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle—along the journey, earning a minimum of 21 merit badges, serving six months in a troop position of responsibility, taking part in a Scoutmaster conference and proposing, planning and carrying out leadership to others in a service project helpful to the community. For more information about the Scouting program, visit www.scouting.org.
By Kathy L. Collins
The 2021 Youth Excelmunity. It is a way for him lence and Achievement to show how thankful he is Awards (YEA! Awards) for being here in this land were given to six outof many opportunities.” standing students on The YEA! Awards cateMay 5 at the beginning of gories include Success Dethe regular Hillsborough spite Difficult Odds—overCounty Board of County coming personal difficulty Commissioners meetto attain success and make ing. Locally, Titus Thien a positive impact on othNguyen, a seventh-grade ers; Leadership—demonstudent at Burns Midstrating a positive impact dle School in Brandon, on others in an ongoing Titus Thien Nguyen, a sevreceived the award for endeavor such as sports, enth-grade student at Burns Success Despite Difficult academics or the arts; and Middle School, is the winner Odds. Volunteer or Community of this year’s Youth Excellence Titus was nominated and Achievement Awards (YEA! Service—allocating discreby his mother, Ngoc Hiep Awards) in the category of Success tionary time to help others Phan, who said, “It is an or completing a project Despite Difficult Odds. honor for Titus, and also that improves the commuour family, for him to be selected as the nity. recipient of this award in the category of For more information on the YEA! Success Despite Difficult Odds. Our fami- Awards, please visit www.HCFLGov.net/ ly moved to Florida from Vietnam in early YEA. 1990. Despite barriers, including language, family education and financial, Titus made a goal early on that he will finish college and pursue a career as either a brain surgeon or aerospace engineer.” Phan added, “His theory is: always work hard regardless of whatever obstacles might be ahead, overcome your fears and start loving and appreciating what is coming.” Titus is the only child of Phan and Quang Nguyen. He is in all advanced/accelerated classes and is receiving high school credits, holds a 4.0 GPA and has been on the Principal’s Honor Roll and Honor Roll. Titus has received awards for Citizenship, Perfect Attendance and Terrific Kid, and he has completed or competed in various activities, including STEM, coding, Battle of the Books, SLAM, a speech competition and Duke TIP. According to his mother, Titus wants to attend Bloomingdale High School and take college courses and then transfer to the University of South Florida. Phan said, “At one time, he struggled FIRST TEE TAMPA ................................PG 3 with writing, but with help, he overcame LIBRARY PRIZES ................................ PG 17 his fear and now loves and appreciates EYE ON BUSINESS....................PGS 21-22 writing. He loves school and in the near SPORTS ....................................................PG 30 future he wants to give back to the com-
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For some Life Scouts, deciding on a service project to complete to earn the Eagle Scout rank is the most challenging part of the assignment. For Scout Sean Covais, a member of Scout Troop 212 in Lutz, it was the easiest part of the project. Sean, who attended Rotary’s Camp Florida, a camp for kids with special needs, knew he wanted to give back to the place that has welcomed him every summer for more than a decade. Sean has plenty of challenges in his young life. He was diagnosed with cancer at just 2 years old—but is now in remission—is on the autism spectrum and has ADHD. He has persevered through all of his challenges. “It’s amazing to see his growth and come up with his own ideas and lead others,” said his mom, Holly Covais. Camp Director Liz Fields said the organization had one need (outdoor picnic tables) and two wants (raised gardens and directional signs). “Sean went above and beyond what we expected him to do,” said Fields. “We’re also naming one of the herb gardens ‘Connor’s Corner’ after a young man that just lost his battle with cancer.” Holly said the project couldn’t have been completed without the help from members of the community. “We are grateful for the companies that have donated to help make the project possible,” said Holly. In
LOCAL MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT RECEIVES YOUTH EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
06/01/2021
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 5
May 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER RUNS FOR BRANDON HONORARY MAYOR
By Kate Quesada
One of Brandon’s most well-loved tradi- Cats and Dogs Animal Shelter will go to tions is kicking off next month. The annual help increase the shelter unit size by 45 anHonorary Mayor’s Race, which is made up imals by utilizing a large, covered, indoor/ of fundraising opportunities for local char- outdoor area for the smaller dogs, thereby ities, will take place throughout June with allowing it the opportunity to help more only one candidate, dogs and, while in its Melissa Canfield, care, give the dogs co-owner of HiTech the ability to be both Automotive. outside and inside. Canfield, who has In order to raise lived in Lithia since the funds, Canfield 2001, will be raising has organized a funds for Camp Rotanumber of events ry, an outdoor camp that will take place offering special needs throughout June. children a traditional “We have somesummer camp expething for everyone,” rience, and Raining she said. “We are goCats and Dogs Animal ing to have a grand Shelter, which cares kick-off on June 1 at for local pets that JF Kicks at 6 p.m. are sick or have been where there will abandoned in order be raffles and door to rehabilitate and reprices, and they are home them to loving donating back 10 Lithia resident Melissa Canfield, co-owner of percent of all the families in our area. “I am super excited HiTech Automotive, is running for Honorary proceeds from that Mayor of Brandon. to work hard for these night.” two amazing charities this year,” said CanHer team is also planning a designer bag field. “Two amazing organizations that I bingo with The George Shea Team as the am proud to be associated with. Kids and signature sponsor for the event. pets, two things we all love. I especially “There will also be a bowling tournaappreciate the fact that each organization ment, bunco night, movie night and I have has a specific need which we are working even heard of a potential Elvis sighting,” to fulfil.” said Canfield, who is planning to end the Canfield’s goal is to help Camp Rotary month with a strictly online bidding aucrepair boards and railings along its docks. tion from Wednesday, June 30 to Friday, “This is necessary so children can safely July 2. access the water area, and that is someTo learn more, search for ‘Melissa4Branthing we can help with directly,” she said. donMayor’ on Facebook or visit www.valThe funds she hopes to raise for Raining ricofishhawk.org.
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FIRST TEE – TAMPA BAY BREAKS FUNDRAISING RECORD Staff Report
First Tee – Tampa Bay, a part of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, recently held a successful fundraiser.
First Tee – Tampa Bay, a part of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, is celebrating a record-breaking night thanks, in part, to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Governor DeSantis served as the keynote speaker for First Tee – Tampa Bay’s fourth annual Dinner Gala and Live Auction at Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club, sponsored by Foley & Lardner LLP, on April 14. His inspirational words helped bring in a record-breaking $1.3 million, including a $150,000 gift from Troy and Elizabeth Fowler through the Triad Foundation, to help more local kids learn life lessons through the game of golf. “We all know that 2020 was a difficult time for many organizations, First Tee included,” said Executive Director Ian Baxter. “We are so grateful to all of our generous supporters for helping us get back to doing what we do best—serve the children of the Tampa Bay community.” “It is tremendous to see our community’s key stakeholders come out to support the First Tee program,” said Tampa YMCA President and CEO Matt Mitchell. “This level of support will help ensure the sustainabil-
ity of this great resource that impacts so many of our youth year after year.” First Tee – Tampa Bay provides more than 90,000 children each year with hands-on, interactive golf experiences along with introducing them to the First Tee Nine Core Values. Besides being part of the Tampa YMCA, First Tee – Tampa Bay also partners with community members such as the Tampa Sports Authority, the City of Tampa, Hillsborough County Public Schools and various golf facilities to offer yearround programming for kids and teens. “At First Tee – Tampa Bay, we do not just teach golf, we teach life skills,” said Gary Koch, First Tee – Tampa Bay’s board chair, former pro golfer and current NBC golf broadcaster. “Our program uses the game of golf to provide young people with the chance to develop life-enhancing values like confidence, perseverance and judgment and a series of life skills such as goal setting, meeting new people and staying healthy.” Governor DeSantis joined the list of previous honored guests at First Tee – Tampa Bay’s annual Dinner Gala and Live Auction, including 18-time major champion Jack Nicklaus, TV golf commentator David Feherty and PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan. Next year’s event is tentatively scheduled for April 14. To learn more about First Tee, visit www. firstteetampabay.org.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM’S PARTY FOR THE PLANET PROGRAM HAS LAUNCHED By Tatiana Ortiz In partnership with the Association of “Our goal is to inspire people to spend Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), The Florida time learning about how we can protect Aquarium launched Party for the Planet and restore our blue planet, to celebrate with 50 Days of Conservation. For this Earth’s tremendous biodiversity on a daily celebration, it included environmental basis and to affect change in a very posstewardship acitive way,” said tivities as well President and as conservation CEO of The Florand educational ida Aquarium programs that Roger Germann. began with Earth In honor of Day (April 22) World Enviand Endangered ronment Day Species Day and World (May 21) and will Oceans Day, continue with the Tr a d e W i n d s upcoming World Island Grand Oceans Day Beach Resort, (Tuesday, June located at 5500 Participants of the Port Cleanup, which The Florida 8). This providGulf Blvd. in St. Aquarium participated in on Earth Day 2021 as it ed families with Pete Beach, will kicked off Party for the Planet. unique opportuhost a beach nities to commemorate the earth’s biodi- cleanup on Saturday, June 5 at 8 a.m. The versity and more. cleanup will help to reduce other debris Dale Wolbrink, senior director of pub- and single-use plastics from reaching the lic relations and integrated marketing at waterways. Volunteers who registered The Florida Aquarium, stated what makes for the cleanup will be supplied with disParty for the Planet unique: “Collectively, posable gloves, grabbers, bags and much Party for the Planet aims to harness the more. passion and the power of each to inspire “We want participants to feel part of action within the communities of individ- The Florida Aquarium family as they get uals.” empowered to make a difference by helpWith that in mind, many of the sched- ing protect and restore our waterways as uled Party for the Planet events focused well as the animals that call this ecosyson two of the aquarium’s top conserva- tem home,” Wolbrink said. tion priorities, such as habitat restoration For more information, visit https:// and the reduction of single-use plastics. www.flaquarium.org/party-for-the-planIn addition, other events centered on lit- et. It is located at 701 Channelside Dr. in ter reduction, mangrove restoration, na- Tampa and is open daily from 9:30 a.m.-5 tive pollinator gardens and environmental p.m. Email moreinfo@flaquarium.org and stewardship. call 273-4000.
Volume 16, Issue 5
BRANDON ’86 ROTARY CLUB TREATS TEACHERS TO BBQ LUNCH IN APPRECIATION FOR ALL THEY DO FOR STUDENTS By Kathy L. Collins ed barbeque sauce. Earnheart said, “At the commercial kitchen, we smoked 26 pork butts, made 15 gallons of slaw and 10 gallons of BBQ sauce. The morning of the event, we put all the assembled all the meals with about 12 volunteers and the meals were personally delivered to the teachers by the Brandon ’86 Rotary Club Members.” Earnheart said, “We wanted Members of Brandon ’86 Rotary Club raised funds to provide a to recognize our local teachers free lunch to show appreciation to area teachers for their hard for all the hard work and dedwork and dedication during the past year. The food was prepared ication that they have had to by RBQ Catering and delivered to 455 teachers. endure this past year.” EarnRecently, Brandon ’86 Rotary Club, in heart added, “We went to social media to partnership with Nogard Insurance Group, secure individual and corporate sponsors Social Buzz Marketing and RBQ Catering, and were successful in getting 33 individual held a teacher appreciation event featuring and corporate sponsors, enough to provide a a free barbeque lunch. Teachers from area free lunch for each of the 455 teachers from Hillsborough County public schools, includour participating schools.” ing Brooker Elementary School, Kingwood The remaining funds raised will be distribElementary School, Burns Middle School uted to several local nonprofits that support and Bloomingdale High School, were treatarea families and children. These include ed to lunch. ECHO, Rotary’s Camp Florida, Family PromAccording to Laura Evans, social media ise and Everyday Blessings. chair for Brandon ’86 Rotary Club, “We held Evans said, “Our club has been in the comthis event to thank our local teachers for munity for over 35 years and we are activemaking a difference in our childrens’ lives ly involved in many hands-on projects, such over the last year throughout the pandemas Rotary’s Camp Florida, All Persons Park ic.” Johnson added, “This was a community and funding many local charities. We are event to let the teachers know that we were a fun group of business leaders that enjoy thinking about their hard work this year. supporting our local community. We meet Proceeds from our generous sponsors went on Friday mornings at 8 a.m. at the Rotary back to the local nonprofits that support our Event Center located at 3007 Kings Ave. in families and children.” Brandon.” The lunch was prepared by Roger EarnFor more information on Brandon ’86 Roheart of RBQ Catering and featured pulled tary Club, please visit http://brandon86ropork barbeque sandwiches with apple slaw, tary.com/. For more information on RBQ potato chips and three ounces of handcraftCatering, please visit www.rbqcatering.com.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
May 2021
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Staff Report
Brandon Regional Hospital received the Fortune/IBM Watson Health 100 Top two big honors recently: once again Hospitals list. This is the ninth consecureceiving an ‘A’ Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade and being named to the Fortune/IBM Watson Health 100 Top Hospitals® list. An ‘A’ Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is a national Brandon Regional Hospital received honors from both Fortune/IBM Watdistinction recogson Health 100 Top Hospitals and The Leapfrog Group recently. nizing a hospital’s achievements for protecting patients tive time Brandon Regional Hospital been from errors, injuries, accidents and in- recognized with this honor as one of the fections. The Leapfrog Group is an inde- top-performing hospitals in the U.S. IBM Watson Health has identified the pendent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and top hospitals from a rigorous evaluation of 2,675 short-term, acute care, nonsafety. “The caregivers (physicians, nurses federal hospitals in the U.S. The annual and support staff) at Brandon Region- list recognizes excellence in clinical outal Hospital are committed to delivering comes, operational efficiency, patient exhigh-quality care to our community every perience and financial health. IBM Watday,” said Bland Eng, CEO of Brandon Re- son Health established the list to help gional Hospital. “As we continue to fight identify the best practices that may help the COVID-19 pandemic, our caregivers other health care organizations achieve have remained persistent in ensuring the consistent, balanced and sustainable high safety of the patients and families we are performance. “Brandon Regional Hospital is proud to privileged to serve. I am very proud of the team at Brandon Regional Hospital once again be named one of the nation’s for receiving an ‘A’ Safety Grade for the 100 top hospitals,” said Eng. “This recfifth consecutive time.” ognition demonstrates our ongoing comTo see Brandon Regional Hospital’s mitment in prioritizing patient-centered full grade details and to access patient care and is a great honor for our team tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit of talented caregivers who have worked hospitalsafetygrade.org and follow The extremely hard during the current panLeapfrog Group on Twitter and Facebook demic.” @TheLeapfrogGroup. For more information, visit BrandonIn addition, the hospital was named to Hospital.com.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 5
THE TAMPA BAY RAYS ANNOUNCE SECOND ANNUAL VIRTUAL 5K By Lily Belcher At the beginning which will be pubof April, the Tampa lished on the RunBay Rays announced ning with the Rays the opening of the results platform, and second annual Runparticipants are enning with the Rays couraged to post a Virtual 5K, which is photo on social mesupported by their dia using the hashtag presenting partner, #Rays5K. United Concordia “Proceeds benefit Dental. Rays fans the Rays Baseball and families across Foundation and Rowthe Tampa Bay area dies Soccer Fund, a can sign up to walk, 501(c)(3) organizajog or run the 5K at tion and the official any location they charity of the Tamchoose and anypa Bay Rays and time they want, Rowdies. The Rays providing a fun and Baseball Foundation convenient way for is dedicated to imsupporters to help proving the lives of their community. those in need within Runners can regour community, foister online by paycusing primarily on ing $30—which education, youth deincludes a com- Runners will receive a finisher’s medal with a velopment, wellness memorative finisher’s replica of the American League Championship and social responsibiltrophy. medal featuring the ity,” according to the American League Championship trophy, website. a race bib and a downloadable finisher’s The Tampa Bay Rays and Rowdies Founcertificate—and run the 3.1 miles before dation focuses on improving the comthe end of May. Medals are only guaran- munity and providing support and relief teed for the first 2,000 entries, so reg- for families around the Tampa Bay area. ister now. Through the partnership, the Rays BaseThe virtual 5K is also extended to par- ball Foundation and Rowdies Soccer Fund ticipants who live out of the state or in- have contributed over $1 million to nonternationally. International runners will profit organizations across Tampa Bay. have to pay a $35 shipping fee by selectFor more information about the Runing ‘international shipping’ at checkout. ning with the Rays program, visit mlb. Before midnight on the last day of com/rays/community or contact commuthe race, Monday, May 31, runners can nity@raysbaseball.com with more quesupload their race time to be featured tions. To register, use the link on the webon their custom finisher’s certificate, site or visit raceroster.com.
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May 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
BOLAY FRESH BOLD KITCHEN DEBUTS VIBRANT, BOLD & FRESH FLAVORS IN TAMPA BAY Staff Report Bolay Fresh Bold broccoli, herb-roasted Kitchen, the dynamic potatoes and balsamic and freshness-fueled mushrooms. Proteins build-your-own ‘bol’ concome next, with somecept from South Florida, thing for everyone, like officially debuted in the juicy steak au jus, savory Tampa Bay market with miso-glazed tofu and the opening of its Branspicy Thai shrimp for a don location this month. bit of heat, then each bol Created by Chris Ganis finished with add-ons non, son of Outback like fresh cilantro and Steakhouse Foundparmesan cheese, foler Tim Gannon, the lowed by signature saucfast-casual concept es, such as creamy garlic seeks to offer food and herb, cilantro pesto that is nutritious, and spicy Thai sauce. Bolay Fresh Bold wholesome and nourGuests can also find juicKitchen opened its es, teas, agua frescas and ishing paired with a Brandon location desserts to complement culture of inspiration earlier this month. for its guests to be their meal. the best version of “I’m extremely grateful for the opportuthemselves. nity to introduce our fresh, bold flavors to The opening of the the Tampa Bay area, starting first here in Brandon restaurant Brandon,” said Guillermo Novoa, operating will mark the 18th partner of the newest Bolay Fresh Bold location in less than Kitchen. “At Bolay, we don’t want to just be five years for the rapidly growing brand, another restaurant on the block. Our goal with the St. Petersburg location set to be is to become a hub for inspiration, personal unveiled this September. growth and development, encouraging our Chris dreamed up the concept for Bolay team and guests within the local commuwhen he came to the realization that the nity to be the best versions of themselves.” culinary scene needed a brand that beLocated at 1544 W. Brandon Blvd., the lieved excellent food fuels an amazing life- 2,600-square-foot space will allow for instyle, and that ‘fast’ and ‘casual’ can also door as well as patio seating for a total of mean extraordinary and nutritious. nearly 70 guests. Dine-in, curbside pickup Bolay boasts an offering of precom- and direct delivery will be available to best posed bols, endless opportunities for cus- suit how every guest would like to enjoy tomization across its chef-driven menu their favorite bol, along with catering and along with gluten-free, vegan and veg- family meal options. etarian options. Guests build their own To learn more about Bolay, please visit bols, starting with bases such as forbidden www.bolay.com, like it on Facebook @Eatblack rice and cilantro noodles and topped Bolay or follow @Bolay on Instagram and with veggies featuring options like ginger Twitter.
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MARY & MARTHA HOUSE HAS BEEN POSITIVELY IMPACTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 39 YEARS
By Libby Hopkins
Founded in 1982, Mary & Martha House ring said. “The pandemic really hurt us has been helping women and families es- last year. However, God provided for us cape domestic violence and homelessness through the pandemic. We were one of the for 39 years. few agencies that didn’t have to lay anyMary & Martha House provides individ- one off or close our doors. We were able ualized case management for each woman to maintain the care of our women and to identify perchildren.” sonal barriers The next and overcome Passport them. Mary & to Freedom Martha House event will is not a onebe held on size-fits-all Friday, June or group pro11 at The gram. Each Regent. The client receives event starts individual at 6 p.m. Founded in 1982, Mary & Martha House has been helping counseling ser“We are women and families escape domestic violence and homelessvices to help very careness for 39 years. The program provides individualized case her conquer ful in the management for each woman to identify personal barriers and names we her unique overcome them. Mary & Martha House is not a one-size-fits-all struggles. “It choose for or group program. Each client receives individual counseling was started our events,” services to help her conquer her unique struggles. many years Herring ago by three women, two of said. “It’s more than just a which who were nuns,” said fundraising event. It’s an opMary & Martha House’s execportunity for women to shine. utive director, Laurie Herring. They can show their accom“It just kind of evolved over plishments of the things they the years, but what is very have done if they choose to. important about our agency is that we Passport to Freedom is basically a name are not just a shelter for women. We are for the freedom they have now. They are a full-on program where women can take safe from domestic violence and put it bethe very next step in putting their lives hind them. We are making this more of back together again. Our main goal is to a celebration of the accomplishments of help with getting through every barrier our women and children.” that brought them to our program.” If you would like to learn more about Like many nonprofits in the area, the Mary & Martha House or if you’d like to COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected attend its Passport to Freedom event, you Mary & Martha House, forcing it to can- can visit its website at www.marymarcel its Passport to Freedom event. “This is thahouse.org or contact Herring at 645our largest fundraiser of the year,” Her- 7874.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 5
CONGRATULATIONS TO AREA HIGH SCHOOL
VALEDICTORIANS & SALUTATORIANS
Staff Report
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world,” – Nelson Mandela. Congratulations are in order for this year’s area valedictorians and salutatorians from our local high schools. These students have put in the hard work, the dedication and shown the drive to be the best of the best of their high school graduating classes. The 2020-21 school year, with its masks, social distancing and other adaptions, has been filled with challenges that make this accomplishment even more impressive. We wish these students the absolute best of luck in their college careers and in their future, and we know that they will never forget graduating during a worldwide coronavirus pandemic. Unlike the Class of 2020, this year’s graduates will have a traditional ceremony at the Florida State Fairgrounds to mark the end of their high school career, although the number of tickets per graduate is limited. Visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/ for information on dates and times. Please join us in congratulating all of the Hillsborough County seniors and those who are the top of their class! Well done!
Valedictorian Madison Salvog
Salutatorian Eileen Mangana
Brandon High School GPA 6.89
Brandon High School GPA 6.46
Valedictorian Jude Delikat Bloomingdale Senior High School GPA 8.20 Plans to attend USF Honors College
Salutatorian Joseph Neidig Bloomingdale Senior High School GPA 8.16 Plans to attend UCF
Valedictorian Asia Nobles Spoto High School GPA 9.04 Plans to attend USF
Valedictorian Sagnik Yarlagadda IB at Strawberry Crest High School GPA 9.34 Plans to attend Vanderbilt University
Salutatorian Jashly Garcia Spoto High School GPA 7.21 Plans to attend USF
Salutatorian Srikar Parsi IB at Strawberry Crest High School GPA 8.60 Plans to attend Georgia Tech
May 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
45TH ANNUAL AWARD RECIPIENTS FROM THE COMMUNITY AFFAIRS DINNER By Tatiana Ortiz
GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club members hold the Non-Profit of the Year banner. From left to right: Inetta Bullock, Becky Goble, Amy Lee, Jethe Perry, Pam Brooks, Karen Manget, Eva Ruiz, Marsha Lantz and Sharon Morse (president). Photo courtesy of Rose Smith.
A memorable night came about for many who attended The Community Roundtable’s 45th annual Community Affairs Dinner at Hilton Garden Inn on April 15 in Riverview. During this special evening, the Alice B. Tompkins Community Service Award as well as the Non-Profit of the Year Award were presented. For those that received these awards, the event changed their lives in a positive manner. The Community Roundtable honors outstanding organizations and individuals at the dinner and presents it to them. Melissa Haskins received the Alice B. Tompkins Community Service Award. The GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club won the Non-Profit of the Year and got a $1,000 check. Born and raised in Brandon, Haskins has always had involvement in numerous volunteer roles throughout her life. She currently is the president at ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization) located in Brandon. For the past seven years, Haskins has been on ECHO’s board too. Haskins shared how she felt winning the Alice B. Tompkins Community Service Award. “I was completely shocked and honored
that I got chosen to receive this prestigious award,” Haskins said. The GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club president, Sharon Morse, mentioned her thoughts about winning the Non-Profit of the Year Award. “When The Community Roundtable announced that GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club won the Non-Profit of the Year Award, I thought I would explode with pride,” Morse said. Melissa Haskins receives Morse also the Alice B. Tompkins stated that with Community Service Award organizafrom the previous winner, the tion’s 66-year Paul Senory. history, it hopes to continue its hard work for the community for many years to come. In regards to the $1,000, it will be put to good use advancing a community service project. “These are the most dedicated, hardworking group of women that I have been associated with,” Morse said. The Community Roundtable was established in 1957. Besides the Community Affairs Dinner, it also hosts the annual Fourth of July Parade, Community Service Forum, The Honorary Mayor of Brandon and much more. On a side note, The Honorary Mayor of Brandon started in 1959. For more information, visit https:// thecommunityroundtable.org. To contact The Community Roundtable, call 661-4350 or email Roundtable2008@aol.com.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 5
BELL SHOALS, 3.1 MILE ROAD WIDENING UPDATE
By Brian Bokor
The project to widen the 3.1-mile stretch of Bell Shoals Rd. from Boyette Rd. north to Bloomingdale Ave. is moving along.
Work accomplished to date on the 3.1-mile stretch of Bell Shoals Rd. from Boyette Rd. north to Bloomingdale Ave. has been primarily associated with land clearing, utility relocation and retention pond construction necessary to accommodate the new four-lane divided highway. But more changes are ahead on this major project. Drivers traveling from Boyette Rd. towards Bloomingdale Ave. will notice the northbound Alafia bridge addition, including bike lanes and sidewalks, now under construction. Once this northbound portion of the bridge has been completed, traffic will shift and the existing southbound lanes will undergo similar renovations. Expect bridgework to be completed mid to late 2022. The large cleared area north of the bridge on the east side will become one of several retention ponds necessary for drainage of excess water runoff created by the project, with additional areas located adjacent to the south of Three Bulls plaza, between Rosemead Ln. and Jiffy
Lube, as well as north of the Bloomingdale Ave. intersection on the west side. When asked why so many ponds were needed and what the estimated timeframe was from this point going forward, Hillsborough County Design Manager of the Capital Programs Department Sandra González, P.E. told me the retention areas were a statutory requirement. “The ponds are designed to hold a certain amount of rainfall that is determined by the amount of impervious area (asphalt and concrete) that is being constructed,” she said. “The project began on schedule in late 2018 and is set to be completed on schedule by December 2022.” An idea of what a typical cross section of the new road will look like when complete can been seen between Bloom Hill Ave. and Three Bulls plaza, where the majority of engineering work is done. The design features 6 ft. wide sidewalks, curbs and gutters; 4 ft. wide bike paths; and two 12 ft. wide lanes on either side of a fully landscaped, raised center me-
dian. The median from Glenhaven Dr. to Rosemead Ln. will be fully irrigated and maintained by the Bloomingdale Special Taxing District through a formal maintenance agreement with the county. This will allow the district control of landscaping upkeep and design, which is still in the formative stages. The median from Glenhaven Dr. south to Boyette Rd. will be nonirrigated and maintained by the county. From Glenhaven Dr. north to Bloomingdale Ave., utility relocation is ongoing, with the challenges ahead focused around completing the remaining northbound lane sections, renovating the existing southbound sections and widening the four signalized intersections at Glenhaven Dr., Rosemead Ln., Starwood Ave. and Bloomingdale Ave. The project will taper from four lanes to two near the end of the project at Knowles Rd. north of Bloomingdale Ave. and will widen from two lanes to four for drivers heading south at the same location.
The speed limit will be 45 mph for most of the new stretch of road and will be reduced to 35 mph in the areas closer toward Bloomingdale Ave. Maps of each neighborhood entrance located along Bell Shoals Rd. in the work zone can be found by visiting HCFLGov. net/CountyProjects, clicking on “Government” (top of page), then “County Projects” and then “Highlighted CIP Projects,” where you’ll find the link to the Bell Shoals Road Widening project with detailed maps available there for every community. Please contact Public Works at 635-5400 with any additional questions. The Bloomingdale intersection will be expanded to include dual left-turn lanes, dual center-thru lanes and single right-turn lanes for drivers headed in either direction on Bell Shoals Rd., which should alleviate some congestion, along with the retiming of the traffic signals at Rosemead Ln. and Starwood Ave. to allow for a smooth flow of traffic through this busy area.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
May 2021
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE TAMPA BAY OFFERS WAYS TO STAY ON TOP OF SUMMER STORMS
Page 11
KIDS BOWL FREE PROGRAM RETURNS TO
BRANDON CROSSROADS BOWL
By Brad Stager
By Tatiana Ortiz
As the calendar advances into the summer installing a weather app from a local memonths in Florida, crisp, refreshing breezes dia outlet, having access to a radio that can and clear, azure skies make way for 90-de- receive weather updates and being familiar gree-plus temperatures and banks of cumu- with information and services available on lus clouds that often precede rain showers. websites from organizations like the FlorThere is a high ida Division of probability that Emergency Manstepping outside agement and the your door means Federal Emergenbeing greeted by a cy Management warm and soggy Agency. atmospheric hug. Residents can While hurricanes also stay informed get the big headabout the latest lines, the local arforecast informaea’s daily weather tion by monitoralso bears vigilant ing NWS Tampa watching, said DanBay’s social media It’s the time of year when weather radar displays iel Noah of the Naplatforms, such explode with the bright colors of rain storms. tional Weather Seras Facebook and vice (NWS) Tampa Twitter, which can Bay area forecast office in Ruskin. be accessed through the weather office’s “Expect thunderstorms most every day website. from late May to mid-October. These storms There is also a new program called Weathproduce frequent lightning and flood roads, er-Ready Nation Ambassadors. It is a Nationmaking travel dangerous,” he wrote in an al Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration email. “When thunder roars, go indoors.” initiative that works with local community Staying abreast of weather conditions organizations to improve severe weather that can change quickly involves effort from awareness and safety within their spheres of government, media and, importantly, individ- influence. Groups such as government entiual residents, according to Noah. ties, businesses, print and broadcast media, “Your National Weather Service in Ruskin churches, schools and homeowners associprovides local emergency management ations are among the organizations whose [agencies] critical weather information to participation is sought. prepare for, respond to and recover from More information about becoming a hurricanes. Our local media is responsible for Weather-Ready Nation ambassador is availcommunicating the weather threat to the able on the NWS Tampa Bay website at public. [We] have multiple ways to receive a weather.gov/tbw, where you can also find weather warning in case one way fails,” he the latest local forecasts, watches and warnsaid. ings as well as links to relevant social media Methods that Noah recommends include accounts.
Those with opportunity to some spare time learn the sport can receive two in hopes that free games of they will want bowling every to join our Satday this summer urday morning from now unbowling protil Wednesday, gram,” White September 15, said. through the Kids B r a n d o n Bowl Free proCrossroads Bowl gram at Brandon became estabCrossroads Bowl. lished in 1990. Kids Bowl Free, The 40,000 sq. a nationally recft. sports enterognized program tainment censince 2008, is ter features 40 Kids participating in the Kids Bowl Free program enjoygeared toward bowling lanes, ing themselves at Brandon Crossroads Bowl. kids ages 2-16. private event A parent or guardian must register their space for parties, billiards, a BCB Pub and child on the website. Times to bowl during Grill and more. In addition, for more than the program varies, depending on the day. two decades Brandon Crossroads Bowl Bowling shoe rentals will need to be paid dominated the league bowling market by for. consistently delivering the highest bowlAndy White, general manager at Bran- ing scores in the Tampa Bay area. With don Crossroads Bowl, mentioned how that in mind, it also led the market with many years that their bowling alley par- many of its youth programs and much ticipated in the Kids Bowl Free program. more. “This would be our third year being in“At Brandon Crossroads Bowl, we are volved with it,” White said. very community oriented,” White said. Select schools and bowling centers “Bowling is all about spending time with throughout the country offer the Kids your family and friends,” he added. Bowl Free program. The design of this To register, visit www.kidsbowlfree. program displays an avenue for the bowl- com/center.php?alley_id=6921. For more ing centers to give back to the communi- information, visit www.kidsbowlfree.com. ty. It also administers a secure, safe and It is located at 609 Crater Ln. in Tampa fun way for kids to spend their summer. and is open Monday through Thursday, White shared what would be one of the 11 a.m.-12 Midnight; Friday through Satgoals with the Kids Bowl Free program. urday, 9-2:30 a.m; and Sunday, 9 a.m.-12 “With this program, it gives the kids an Midnight. Call 621-2363.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 5
WHEN IT COMES TO STROKES, CERTIFIED ROOFERS & GENERAL CONTRACTORS, INC. CELEBRATES EVERY SECOND MATTERS ITS 40-YEAR ANNIVERSARY Staff Report their words? Time to call 911: Call 911 immediately if you or a loved one show signs of a stroke. Help is near. If you or a loved one experience a stroke, you want the best possible care— fast. With its freestanding AdventHealth Brandon ER close by, you can rest easier knowing you’ll have a caring and skilled team ready to AdventHealth Brandon ER is located at 305 E. Brandon Blvd. in support your family—and Brandon. access to AdventHealth’s According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, someone in the U.S. has a stroke every 40 seconds. That’s more than 795,000 people each year—most experiencing a stroke for the first time. And, with almost two million brain cells permanently damaged every minute while a stroke is in connected network of care. progress, recognizing the signs and getAs an extension of AdventHealth Tamting immediate medical attention can pa hospital and its Comprehensive Stroke make a life-saving difference. Center, the Brandon ER is connected Protect your loved ones by learning the to a full neuroscience program and an signs of a stroke and knowing where to award-winning stroke team, which inget care. Think F.A.S.T. cludes neurologists, neurosurgeons, inF.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember terventional neuroradiologists and more. the sudden signs of a stroke. Together, they’ll get you or your loved Face drooping: Ask the person to smile. one back on the path to healing and feelCan they hold a smile on both sides? ing whole. Arm weakness: Ask the person to raise AdventHealth Brandon ER is located at their arms. Can they hold them up equal- 305 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. In case ly? of a life-threatening emergency, call 911. Speech difficulty: Ask the person to reFor more information about ER serpeat a simple sentence. Are they slurring vices, visit TampaERExperts.com.
By Tatiana Ortiz
Alex Sanchez, owner of Certified Roofers, and his three sons.
A commitment to trustworthiness, stellar craftsmanship and honesty perfectly describes Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc., located in Valrico. As a third-generation family business of roofers, the business celebrates 40 years of service this year. A tradition of caring for neighbors and remaining hardworking is at the heart of Certified Roofers. Kathleen Carpenter, marketing manager at Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc., stated what makes the business set apart. “We are local to the community, family-owned and know the area well since the Sanchez’s started their roots here,” Carpenter said. Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc. is a GAF Master Elite-certified company that became established in 1981. Prior to that, the patriarch of the family, Onidio Sanchez, started his 40-year journey utilizing his skills in building homes
and remodeling them in 1965. His career was much spent as a general contractor in the Tampa Bay area. He passed away in 2006. His son, Onidio Sanchez Jr., also had talents similar to himself, but focused on roofing. Sanchez Jr. founded Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc. He passed away in 2015. Before he passed away, Sanchez Jr. and his son, Alex Sanchez, w o r k e d hand-inhand for more than a decade. Alex brought a new perspective to the business. This business model still sticks to his father’s dream too. Workers serve FishHawk, Brandon, Riverview, Valrico, Tampa as well as the surrounding communities. Services include roof repairs, roof replacements, storm damage repairs and more. Those interested can receive a free estimate. All are trained and educated. “All in all, we like to thank the community for allowing us to be involved in it for the past 40 years,” Carpenter said. “We also look forward to serving them now and in the future,” she added. For more information, visit https://certifiedroofers.com. It is located inside the River Hills Plaza at 4331 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call 643-8333.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
May 2021
TAMPA BAY SUMMER RV SHOW OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERY FAMILY By Sharon Still According to Kampgrounds of America’s (KOA) latest annual North American Camping Report, 10.1 million households camped for the first time in 2020; this is a five-fold increase over 2019. Additionally, the number of households that own RVs increased by 2.6 million compared to 2019. More than 60 percent of first-timer campers reported they planned to camp as much or more in 2021. Mark your calendars for Thursday, June 10 through Sunday, Those who have never been June 13 and head over to the Florida State Fairgrounds to enjoy RVing before will be amazed everything associated with RVing. at all the comforts of home in With the interest in Recreational Vehian RV these days and seasoned RVers can cles (RVs) on a constant rise, the Florida check out new products, shop for accessoRV Trade Association (FRVTA) expects this ries and more. It will be fun for the whole year’s Tampa Bay Summer RV Show to be family with a DJ, face painting and activities a big hit. Mark your calendars for Thursday, the kids. June 10 through Sunday, June 13 and head Admission is $5 per adult; children ages over to the Florida State Fairgrounds to en16 and under are free. Military and first rejoy everything associated with RVing. sponders are discounted $1 off the price of The Tampa Bay Summer RV Show will admission for all days of the show and sefeature multiple dealers showcasing severniors get a $1 discount on June 10. There al different brands and styles of RVs that also will be a $100 American Express Gift guests can tour, all in one location. There Card given away as a door prize each day. also will be a variety of vendor booths feaMasks will be required and social distancturing everything from RV necessities and ing will be in effect. Prior to the event, the accessories to RV rentals and campgrounds, entire show will be disinfected with KOCplus parts, household items and more. 86 sanitizer, which is EPA-Certified and “The RV Show is a great way for newbies lab-tested to kill human coronaviruses. to learn more about RVing or find the RV of Show hours are June 10 to June 12, 9 their dreams,” said Walt Williams, Suncoast a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, June 13, 10 a.m.-5 RV Rental co-owner and one of the vendors p.m. Leashed pets are welcome. in the show. “We have seen a lot of first-time The Florida State Fairground is located at RVers renting since the onset of COVID-19,” 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. To see a sneak peak he added. “In addition to RVing being the and opening day videos, subscribe to the safest way to travel, it is also a wonderful FRVTA YouTube page at https://www.youvacation alternative that many had not contube.com/frvta. sidered before.”
For more information or tickets call 645-7874
Page 13
THE SHOW WILL SAFELY GO ON AT BUSCH GARDENS Staff Report As Busch Garvative and adaptable dens continues with bringing our to prioritize the productions to life in health and safenew ways and we’re ty of its guests, thrilled to expand our ambassadors and offering to include animals in its care, new programs in adsoon guests will dition to fan-favorite be able to enjoy shows.” indoor world-class Just in time for entertainment beMemorial Day weekginning on Friday, Starting at the end of this month, guests at Busch end, guests will be May 28. From Turn Gardens will again be able to watch live shows. able to enjoy the folIt Up!, the park’s award-winning ice skating lowing productions on select days beginproduction to an all-new acrobatic show, ning on May 28: Cirque Electric, modified operations in the Turn It Up! park’s theaters will make it possible for Thursday-Monday, multiple shows per guests to once again enjoy incredible shows day. The Moroccan Palace Theater will once as they explore Busch Gardens’ 300 acres again be home to Busch Gardens’ spectacuof exhilarating rollercoasters and fascinat- lar, year-round ice skating shows, including ing animal habitats. Turn It Up!, With contemporary perforIn addition to the park’s already strict mances, dazzling aerial moments and eclechealth and safety measures, which include tic pop music, it’s no wonder this producenhanced cleaning and sanitization, tem- tion has earned a spot on the USA TODAY perature checks and face covering require- 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. ments, many modifications will be in place ALL-NEW: Cirque Electric at Busch Gardens’ theaters upon reopening, Friday-Monday, multiple shows per day. including significantly limited capacity inFor awe-inspiring feats that spark the side the park’s expansive theaters to accom- imagination, the dynamic performance of modate plenty of space between parties; Cirque Electric, an all-new acrobatic stunt staggered entering and exiting procedures show exclusively produced for Busch Garto keep guests physically distant; protective dens, will soon thrill guests at the Stanface coverings required by all guests, am- leyville Theater. From the daring airborne bassadors and performers at all times, cov- aerialist to stunning displays of balance and ering the nose and mouth; and no eating or strength and a fascinating act on wheels drinking permitted inside the theaters. that cannot be missed, guests will be daz“Bringing more live entertainment safe- zled by world-class performers. ly back to the park is another huge step Guests can visit www.BuschGardenin returning to world-class entertainment sTampa.com for more information, reservaat Busch Gardens Tampa Bay,” said Neal tions and tickets. Fans can stay up to date Thurman, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay park with park events, attractions and more by president. “Since our reopening in June, following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on our park teams have been incredibly inno- Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Page 14
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
BRANDON DOCTOR RECEIVES FULBRIGHT U.S. SCHOLAR PROGRAM AWARD TO INDIA Staff Report The U.S. Department of State and the Eng, CEO of Brandon Regional Hospital. “Dr. J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Misra has served as program director of Board has announced the GME Surgical Resthat Dr. Subhasis Misra, idency Program since MD, surgical oncologist 2017 and will be an outat Brandon Surgical standing addition to the Specialists and program Fulbright U.S. Scholar director of the GraduProgram.” ate Medical Education As a Fulbright Schol(GME) Surgical Residenar, Dr. Misra will share cy Program at Brandon knowledge and foster Regional Hospital, has meaningful connections received a Fulbright U.S. Dr. Subhasis Misra has received a Fulacross communities in Scholar Program award bright U.S. Scholar Program award to the United States and India. to India. Dr. Misra will India. Fulbrighters enteach at the All India gage in cutting-edge reInstitute of Medical Scisearch and expand their ences (AIIMS) Rishikesh professional networks, campus as part of a project titled ‘Changing often continuing research collaborations Medical Education by Implementing Novel started abroad and laying the groundwork Educational Administration and Pedagogi- for forging future partnerships between incal Approach.’ stitutions. “I am honored to be awarded the FulFor further information about the Fulbright Scholarship,” said Dr. Misra. “I look bright Program or the U.S. Department of forward to full immersion into the program State, please visit http://eca.state.gov/fuland bringing back the learnings, collabora- bright or contact the Bureau of Educational tions and international partnerships to our and Cultural Affairs Press Office by calling program here at Brandon Regional Hospi- 202-632-6452 or emailing ECA-Press@ tal.” state.gov. This sabbatical activity will predominantBrandon Surgical Specialists provides the ly focus on 1) principles of education admin- full breadth of cancer surgery, including adistration, including leadership, developing vanced surgery for cancers of the liver, pancurriculum, assessment tools and faculty creas, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, development, as well as 2) newer pedagogi- colon and rectum, and it uses hyperthermic cal techniques, including various interactive intraperitoneal chemotherapy and robotic and small group learning sessions. Another procedures. Additionally, it offers complex major focus of the project is to reimagine an surgical procedures to treat breast cancer. effective new education and training modProudly serving Hillsborough County el for post-graduate learners to help them communities from Tampa to Lakeland and take personalized care of patients. beyond, the practice is located at 205 S. “We congratulate Dr. Misra on this Moon Ave., Ste. 102-A in Brandon. For more well-deserved honor and for his dedica- information, call the office at 662-6200 or tion to education and research,” said Bland visit brandonsurgicalspecialists.com.
Volume 16, Issue 5
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
May 2021
REGISTER FOR MOVE! HILLSBOROUGH AND GET MOVING TO WIN A PRIZE
Page 15
CUSTOM HAIR For the hair you’ve always wanted!
By Kathy L. Collins
The Hillsborough County Parks & Recre- and push themselves to be physically ation Department has come up with a new healthier. The activities include anything program to get residents moving. Move! that people can do anywhere, including in Hillsborough offers incentives or prizes our parks.” for anyone who While you are gets exercising. working toward The program your goal, be sure will run through to post your expeSaturday, July rience using the 31. hashtag #MoveThis is the ItHC. first year for McDonald addMove! Hillsbored, “We want ough. It is a new people to know health initiative that the Parks Move! Hillsborough is a new health initiative of the to get residents Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation Department Department is that is designed to get residents moving. You can enjoy exercising and fully invested in the great outdoors, have fun exercising and win a prize. moving. You can the health and bike, hike, walk, kayak, rollerblade or even wellness of our community. We want skip. If you like Zumba or just workout, people to come out and enjoy our parks keep track of it and use the Parks Depart- and programs. This program is a way to ment’s exercise to miles conversion sheet. encourage people to get active in their faJust keep track of your miles, because any vorite ways. You can count the miles you time of movement counts. earn while you walk, run, bike, hike, skip Residents simply select a goal—100 or canoe. But the great thing about this miles, 300 miles or 500 miles. Keep track program is we have a conversion chart on of where you go, what you do and your the website for activities like basketball, miles until July 31. Once you reach your pickleball, Zumba and much more. This goal, you win a prize, which includes a way all activity counts.” keychain for 100 miles, a bandana for Remember to get out there and explore 300 miles and a T-shirt for 500 miles. too. Hillsborough County is home to nuRegister for Move! Hillsborough online for merous Neighborhood Community Parks free at www.hillsboroughcounty.org. You such as Seffner CommUNITY Park and must be registered to receive your prize. Garden and FishHawk Sports Complex Dana McDonald, senior program coor- as well as Conservation Parks such as dinator for Hillsborough County Parks & Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park, LithRecreation, said, “We wanted to give peo- ia Springs Conservation Park and Apollo ple a way to get more active and get re- Beach Nature Preserve. warded for it. We wanted to do something Visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org and that anyone at any fitness level could do get moving.
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Page 16
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Registration Opens, Family Painting & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
time. The Suicide Awareness Showdown will take place at The Regent in Riverview on Saturday, September 18. The theme for the event is ‘Where Have You Been? A Night at the Oscars.’ Registration costs $20; visit the LAB’s website to register. For more information, visit www.thelab-inc.org or call 588-5010.
B Street First Annual Shoot-Out To Benefit F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
Registration Opens For The LAB’s F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families, Respect, Inspire, Suicide Awareness Showdown Education, Networking for Down SynLive Achieve Believe, Inc. (LAB) has opened registration for its Suicide Awareness Showdown. The LAB is an organization where assistance is offered in the odyssey of self-development. Its mission is to empower people through education, self-reflection and self-evaluation, expressly learning who they really are, not who they have been conditioned to be, and therefore finding their purpose, ultimately unlocking their power. The Suicide Awareness Showdown was started to help people celebrate life. It aims to encourage oneself to set out on a journey of self-discovery to comprehend the core of their very being, exposing the beauty that lies within, leading to character building. The showdown honors all those brave men, women, boys and girls who struggle with suicide in any form and continue to stay strong one moment at a
Volume 16, Issue 5
drome & Special Needs) is the leading voice for Down syndrome in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties. FishHawk Sporting Clays is holding its B Street first annual Shoot-Out to benefit them on Saturday, May 22 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at their property at 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia. The registration for the event is $100 per person or $400 for a team of four and the event will include a safety briefing, tournament, lunch and a raffle with a variety of prizes. Registration for the event is via mail to Amanda Gilley, 2350 E. SR 60, Valrico, FL 33594 or email amanda@kenbrownlee. com.
Brunch And Coach Bag Bingo Coming To JF Kicks
JF Kicks in Valrico is hosting a Coach Bag Bingo fundraiser for F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families, Respect, Inspire, Education, Network-
dinner and a silent auction starting at 6 p.m. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For additional information, call 645-7874.
Family Painting Class At Center Place
ing for Down Syndrome & Special Needs). The event will take place on Sunday, June 27 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and will include over $6,000 in Coach bags, brunch and your choice of either a mimosa or a Bloody Mary, two bingo cards with the option to purchase more, raffles and lots of fun. Tickets for this event are $50 in advance, tables of eight are $350; or, if there are any left, tickets are $65 at the door. This event will probably sell out, so get your tickets today. To purchase tickets, call 413-4229 or email office@kenbrownlee.com.
Mary & Martha House Hosting Gala To Celebrate 39 Years
Mary & Martha House has been helping women and families escape domestic violence and homelessness since 1982. It provides individualized case management for each woman to identify personal barriers and overcome them. Mary & Martha House is not a one-size-fits-all or group program, each client receives individual counseling services to help her conquer her unique struggles. To celebrate its 39 years, Mary & Martha House is hosting a gala event, Passport to Freedom, at The Regent on Friday, June 11. The evening will include cocktails,
Join Lori Dowe of Art & Ministry at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association in Brandon on Sunday, June 13 for a fun family painting class for parents and children. Tickets cost $40 for a parent and a child; an additional parent or child will cost $10. The ticket price includes food, family-friendly drinks and painting supplies. This class is limited to 50 participants. To register for this class, call Center Place at 685-8888; preregistration and payment are required. COVID-19 policies are being followed and masks must be worn.
Kiwanis Club Of SouthShore Benefit Concert
The Kiwanis Club of SouthShore is hosting a benefit concert on Friday, June 4 at 7 p.m. to raise scholarship money for local, deserving, college-bound high school seniors. HWY 41 SOUTH, a bluegrass band, will be performing at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center (UMCSCC) and features Mark Horn, Donnie Harvey, David Beaumont, Clint Dockery and Tammy White. Tickets for the concert are $10 and are on sale at the UMCSCC office Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. If still available, they will be $15 at the door. CDC guidelines are still in effect at the church, so please bring your mask. For more information about recitals at the UMCSCC, visit www.sccumc.com.
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May 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
TIPS FOR HELPING TEENS COPE WITH STRESS OF PANDEMIC By Michelle Caceres It can sometimes be difficult to talk to your teen, especially if answers to question like ‘how was your day?’ are met with such mysterious replies such as ‘fine’, ‘okay’ or ‘alright’ but learning to communicate with our children, especially from a young age, can help promote maturity, help him or her make choices that support their well-being, help them avoid situations that might be dangerous and teach them how to look after themselves mentally as well as physically. Pre-teens, tweens and teens are dealing with far greater and far more pressure than ever before. Challenging physical changes and ever more complex relationships (exacerbated by a pandemic) mean there’s never been a better time to talk, and listen what they’re thinking and feeling. Family therapist Cory Pacheck M.Ed. LMFT said that while the parental system is just one system that a child exists within (others include their biological system, family system, community system, etc), it is ultra-key because parents are the foundation of every child’s life. “In attachment theory we refer to the ideal version of that foundation as a ‘secure base’,” said Pacheck. That foundation begins with parents who have their own lives together. “Your credibility and your character matter,” he said. “You have to be trustworthy, honest, responsible, reliable and safe. You have to know what you are talking about and know how to shut up and listen A LOT and then maintain confidentiality with what your child has just shared with you.”
“Don’t invalidate their feelings by telling them they’re wrong or telling them all the reasons why they shouldn’t feel the way they do because it’s one of the most common communication errors that parents make,” he said. Kindergarten teachers tell their students to turn on their listening ears; parents need their listening ears. “Take the time to truly and deeply listen with genuine compassion and empathy, first seeking to understand and validate that person’s feelings and experience,” he said. “And resist the urge to start complaining about how terrible your own life is thinking it will somehow make your child feel better.” Be responsible, safe, strong, reliable, level-headed and trustworthy. They’ll feel good about talking with you when they need to. “Parents need be a united front and well-functioning team,” he said. “Don’t yell and scream and undermine one another.” Talk to the Student Services team (a school counselor, school nurse, school social worker) at your teen’s school if you need assistance. You can also ask your health care provider for a referral to a family therapist or licensed mental health provider who has experience and expertise in treating youth. Going through a crisis that needs immediate attention? Call The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay at 2-1-1 (24 hours a day/7 days a week).
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TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESENTS ITS SUMMER READING PROGRAM, ‘TAILS AND TALES’ By Kathy L. Collins Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Li- drawn from a pool of eligible customers. brary’s Summer Reading Program is back. There are reading challenges for kids, This year’s theme is ‘Tails and Tales’ and tweens and teens as well as adults. Parit will feature both real and imaginary ticipants who meet reading deadlines animals. The Summer Reading Program and complete activities will be eligible to runs from Tuesday, June 1 to Saturday, win some fantastic tech prizes. July 31. Participants can take part in live virtual Chris Sturgeon, Learning Experiences events from home. These include animal consultant for acts, magic Ta m p a - H i l l shows, science sborough programs, stoCounty Public rytellers and Library, said, fun events for “Like previous all ages. The summers, we programs will have many fun be offered and amazing every TuesThis summer, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Lithings in store brary will offer its Summer Reading Program, ‘Tails and day at 2 p.m., for our cus- Tales.’ Participants can enjoy live virtual events featuring Wednesday at tomers. We animal experiences and reading challenges for all ages. 6:30 p.m. and will be offering They can also track their reading progress and win prizes. Thursday at 11 reading chala.m. lenges, virtual events and classes, cool Sturgeon said, “Of course, Summer tech prizes, book giveaways, fun activi- Reading would not be possible without ties and more.” the help and support of our participating Sturgeon added, “In keeping with this community partners. We are proud to year’s theme, there will be several pro- be teaming up with ZooTampa at Lowry grams featuring virtual animal encoun- Park, Hillsborough County Pet Resourcters. In addition, our programming lineup es Department, Friends of the Library of will include magic, music, science, trivia Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc., Hillsand much more. Funding for our summer borough County Parks & Recreation and programs is provided by Friends of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Children’s Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Library Foundation. Some of these partInc.” ners are generously donating prizes and Participants will track their reading will also be presenting virtual events.” progress and be eligible to win books, For more information about all aspects digital cameras and even hoverboards. of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Summer prizes will be awarded to read- Library’s Summer Reading Program, ining challenge participants, program at- cluding the programming schedule, readtendance and engaging with the library ing challenges and prizes, please visit on social media. All winners will be www.hcplc.org/summer.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
BLOOMINGDALE GIRLS BASKETBALL PLAYER WINS AWARD OF MERIT IN
SALVADOR DALI PAINTING CONTEST By Nick Nahas The famous artist her original painting Salvador Dali once said, that she wasn’t happy “Surrealism is destrucwith and used oil paint tive, but it destroys only instead of acrylic to what it considers to be make it more airy and shackles limiting our realistic. Seltzer’s friend vision.” Bloomingdale told her that the dream girls basketball playwas the perfect subject er Emily Seltzer aptly matter for the painting. described winning the She then trusted the Award of Merit in this process, working on the year’s Dali Student Surpainting every day after realist Art Exhibition school for about three for her painting, Crusweeks, for a total of 20tacean Infestation, as 30 hours. surreal. The team captain The painting, which found out that she won was inspired by a nightthe award when her mare Seltzer had when teacher congratulated she was a child, in which her. Crustacean Infesshe was chased in the tation was displayed Grand Canyon by giant in the student section lobsters and crabs, was of the Dali Museum for the perfect subject matabout a month. Seltzer ter for this year’s Dali received free tickets to art competition theme the museum and took of ‘Delusions, Desires her family and friends and Delicacies.’ Seltzer, to check out her artnow looking back at the work. The painting was dream, views it as hujudged by museum cuCrustacean Infestation was painted by morous, but at the time Bloomingdale High School student Emily rators and art critics she had the dream, she who awarded her with Seltzer. was frightened by it. Photos courtesy of Emily Seltzer. the honor. “It’s one of those “This is such a big, dreams that you never forget,” said Seltzer. huge moment for me,” said Seltzer. “I really “I just thought that it would be a good idea will never forget this—it is incredible and to conquer my fear in that way and make I’m so excited. Just getting picked makes a joke of it, because you can do that with me feel so validated—it is so real, it’s honyour fears sometimes and it makes it more estly surreal.” palatable and more interesting.” Seltzer will receive a certificate for winThe junior basketball player, who has ning the Award of Merit, along with her been painting for as long as she can remem- plaque that was displayed with the paintber, stepped up her craft about five years ing. She will eventually get back her work, ago. Her mom gives her paint and canvases and she already has a special place on the as a birthday present every year, and she wall in her room to hang it. She is very is now getting commissioned for some of proud of the level of detail and dedication her work. She likes to paint as an outlet to that it took to paint it. express herself and release energy because “When you paint organic material, it’s reshe views herself as a person that isn’t ally easy to get obsessed in trying to make particularly vocal. Seltzer’s teacher, Diana it perfect, but that’s not life. Life isn’t perSpeedy, noticed her gift and encouraged her fect, and as an artist, you want to make it to enter the contest. symmetrical and perfect, but you can’t beSeltzer, who said that it was hard to get cause imperfection is what makes it organic started with the creative process, scrapped and beautiful.”
Volume 16, Issue 5
BRING THEM INTO YOUR HOME OR YOUR HEART DURING NATIONAL FOSTER CARE MONTH
Staff Report
“The people who put aside their personal lives to help out kids like me are beautiful people and greatly appreciated,” A.Q., former foster child. May is National Foster Care Month and you can make a difference by opening your home or opening your heart and offering time and support to a child in the dependency system. These children are in a difficult and scary situation through no fault of their own and could use a consistent, caring adult to help them get through it. A child in foster care may have experienced physical, psychological and/or emotional trauma, only to endure long periods of uncertainty in the system as they wait to go home, be adopted or simply see what happens next. Some are fortunate to be placed in individual foster homes and others may be lucky enough to have a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to be an advocate for them. With approximately 3,000 children in foster care in Hillsborough County alone, there are
not enough foster parents or Guardian ad Litem advocates for them all. Children need a safe place to live and an adult they can trust. Having a GAL volunteer—someone who listens, checks in, follows up, holds the system accountable and puts the child’s best interests before all others’—can make a lasting difference as well. “Statistics show us that children with a Guardian ad Litem, [as opposed to a foster child who does not have one], do better in school, receive more services and often find a forever home more quickly,” said Tabitha Lambert, Guardian ad Litem 13th Circuit director. “GAL volunteers not only advocate for children within the court and child welfare systems but also form relationships with them that last for years. A number of young people who age out of the foster care system will maintain a relationship with their volunteer into adulthood.” When GAL volunteers are appointed by judges, they get to know the child and find out what they need to heal and thrive. Engaging youth and families can lead to increased family stabilization and expedite reunification or adoption. To learn more about the Guardian ad Litem program and its volunteers, visit www. galtampa.org or call 272-5110. Information sessions are available via phone.
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May 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 19
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Page 20
Top Producer 2002 - 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 5
Brandon/Winthrop
See Story On Page 25 New Vitality Center Moves To New Location New Vitality Center has moved to a new location. Its mission is to provide clients with the tools necessary to defy the qualitative aspects of aging. Its full range of services allows it to offer its clients a whole-body approach to achieve optimal health. The center offers safe and effective therapies that will reverse the processes associated with aging and eliminate adverse effects associated with the aging process, allowing individuals to enjoy happy, healthy and active lifestyles well beyond expectations. New Vitality Center is located at 665 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. For more information, visit its website at https://newvitalitycenters.com/ or call 436-0708. Raining Berries Opening Soon Raining Berries is bringing its premium acai bowls, fair trade coffee, smoothies and artisanal teas to Brandon. It will be opening in The Collection at Brandon Blvd. on SR 60 where Salons by JC and Home Centric are located. “As a company, we know the laughter, connections and memories that can be forged over a simple cup of coffee, our philosophy is ‘Real People, Real Coffee, Real Life,’” states a Raining Berries press release. For more information on Raining Berries, visit its website at www.rainingberries. com.
mand careers while also engaging with the communities we serve.” For more information about Herzing University’s Tampa campus, call 407-641-5227. Quality Life Massage Therapy Reopens At New Location Leslie Forrester first opened Quality Life Massage Therapy in 2011 and reopened on May 1 at a new location in the heart of Riverview within The Herzing University Appoints Dr. Kurt Ancient Wisdom of Yoga Holistic Wellness Hubbard As Academic Dean Of FloriCenter at 10209 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview da Campuses after an Herzing University, an accredited, extended private, nonprofit institution with ‘pandemlocations in seven states and an ic pause.’ online division, has named Dr. Kurt During Hubbard the academic dean of its t h i s Orlando and Tampa campuses. Hubpause, bard has extensive experishe built ence in higher education and on her will lead strategic initiatives skills; that foster a positive learnshe speing environment and support cializes culture for Herzing students in therand employees. Hubbard will also Dr. Kurt Hubbard, Herzing University apeutic ensure that academic rigor, curricuacademic dean. massage lum, instruction and learning outcome and focuses on pain relief and improved standards are met in collaboration with mobility and flexibility. Forrester concenfaculty, career development and administrates on creating custom sessions of mastrative staff. “I’m excited to join an instisage and bodywork that feel both effective tution that truly takes a team approach and comfortable, often using a variety of to ensuring students are supported and techniques. empowered throughout their educational For more information, visit www.Qualjourney,” Hubbard said. “We will continue ityLifeMassageTherapy.com or call 501to make sure Herzing graduates are thor7568. oughly prepared for rewarding and in-de-
Bay Area Trust, LLC Buys Houses Bay Area Trust, LLC has been in business since 2008 and will buy any house within an hour of Tampa, whether they are occupied, trashed, have bad tenants, etc. It has purchased hundreds of homes from $15,000 all the way up to $400,000 and its funds are available immediately. Local and reputable title companies are used and it is able to buy your home as quickly as you would like. It can buy houses as soon as the next day or can postpone until next year if you prefer. Bay Area Trust is located at 1902 W. Main St. in Tampa. For more information, visit its website at www.buy813.com or call 540-7375. Salons By JC Celebrates Five Years And A New Salon Suite The Salons by JC owner, Denise Cooke, is thrilled to bring another salon suite concept to the area. It serves the Valrico community, offering luxurious suites to beauty and wellness professionals seeking professional independence for five years. Guests will love Salons by JC as it offers every beauty service under one roof. It is a premier choice for salon professionals to grow their business and their brand; the private suites provide one-on-one settings, and beauty professionals and customers are increasingly seeking out for their business. Salons by JC differentiates itself from other salon suite concepts through its signa-
Page 22
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... ture salon concierge, who works full-time at the service of the beauty professionals and their clients. The concierge makes sure the salon is operating smoothly and is available to help the tenants as needed. “As the owner, I want to make sure the beauty and wellness professionals feel that they belong to a salon family where they are taken care of and happy,” stated Cooke. The new location in Brandon can be found at 1534 W. Brandon Blvd. in The Collection at Brandon Shopping Center, joining other businesses such as KeKe’s Breakfast Cafe and Home Centric. For more information, call 569-0103 or email dcooke@salonsbyjc.com. Re-Bath Makes A Splash In Tampa Re-Bath, the nation’s largest complete bathroom remodeling company, marked the opening of its Brandon location with a grand opening event on April 22 at its showroom located in the Westfield Brandon mall at 459 Brandon Town Center. Re-Bath Tampa is owned and operated by previous industry colleagues Rhino Rubio and Jackie Ruiz. Rubio is an industry leader in the retail environment and Ruiz holds an interior design degree and brings over 20 years of experience in the kitchen and bath industry. “We are extremely excited to be servicing homeowners again in the Greater Tampa community by providing a best in class business to turn to for their remodeling needs,” said Rubio. To learn more about Re-Bath for your bathroom remodeling needs, visit www. rebath.com/location/tampa. New Dental Office Coming To Valrico Dr. Amir Mostatabzadeh, DDS and Dr. Johnathan Tanner, DDS will soon be offering dental services to the community of Valrico at their brand-new office, Bloomingdale Dental Care. The new full-service, state-of-the-art family dental practice is set to open on Friday, May 28. Bloomingdale Dental Care will be fully equipped with the latest products and equipment available in the dental industry, offering Dr. Mostatabzadeh, Dr. Tanner and their dental team the opportunity to provide the most up-to-date procedures and services to their patients. From routine cleanings and simple fillings to the more in-depth restorative and cosmetic services, patients can expect individualized care to help them keep their teeth for a lifetime. “We are excited to be joining the Valrico community to offer high-quality dental services to families and individuals of all ages,” said Dr. Mostatabzadeh. “Our mission is to provide exceptional experiences to each patient who walks through our doors.” Bloomingdale Dental Care is located at 2184 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. The office is now accepting new patients; appointments can be made by calling 6161097 or visiting www.BloomingdaleDentalCareFL.com. London Baker Law Celebrates Six Years London Baker Law has provided concierge, custom and caring services in the area of estate planning and probate for six
years. Services include wills, durable powers of attorney, living wills, health care surrogates and probate issues. Doing this type of planning can be scary and unsettling, but London Baker Law is committed to help people make difficult choices and decisions as they work through how they want their life handled if they’re incapacitated and how they want things to go after they are no longer here to do things. The London Baker Law office is at 6409 Eureka Springs Rd., Ste. 516 in Tampa. For more information, visit www.londonbakerlaw.com or call 586-1332. Pink Court Ballers Skills Academy Provides Mobile Training Does your child want to get stronger and faster, jump higher and improve their sports skills? Coach Marvin Lee with Pink Court Ballers Skills Academy is ready to take them to the next level, all without leaving your driveway. It offers 1:1 skills training from beginner to pro, and with group training, team camps and individual camps either on-site or via mobile, it brings the training to you. Many sports benefit from its VertiMax training, including basketball, football, soccer, baseball, lacrosse and track and field. To find out more about the training offered, visit www.pinkcourtballers.com or call 334-303-8560. Mobile RV Repair And Services Co-Owner Awarded Master RV Technician Designation Mobile RV Repair and Services in Apollo Beach is proud to announce that its lead technician and co-owner, Julia Coheley, has been awarded the designation ‘Master RV Technician’ by Recreational Vehicle Service Academy (RVSA). RVSA-certified Master RV Technicians like Coheley have passed an extensive hands-on and written curriculum and a comprehensive final examination, and they have demonstrated proficiency, performance and professionalism. Mobile RV Repair and Services is a fivestar rated business serving Hillsborough and nearby counties. For more information, visit its website at www.mobilervrepairandservices.com or follow it on Facebook @mobilervrepairandservices. Honeyz Fortune 5 Bling, Paparazzi Accessories Offers Bling On A Budget Honeyz Fortune 5 Bling offers accessories for everyone regardless of your style or income due to the affordability of Paparazzi Accessories. It offers a variety of ways to shop its ever-changing inventory via its website; home, private or event gatherings; Facebook Live; and Zoom parties. “It’s a great way to have a funfilled fundraiser by offering jewelry,” said Yolanda Harris, owner of Honeyz Fortune 5 Bling. The items available are priced at $1, $5 or $25 and are nickel and lead-free, including earrings, rings, bracelets, necklaces and even a children’s jewelry collection. Contact Honeyz Fortune 5 Bling at 317203-9678, email honeyzfortune5@gmail. com or visit https://paparazziaccessories. com/honeyz/. Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists
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Volume 16, Issue 5
FINN’S DOCKSIDE BAR & GRILL: APOLLO BEACH’S NEXT WATERFRONT DESTINATION By Brian Bokor By this Thanksgiving, Apollo Beach resi- ists alike, but also providing job opportunidents will have another waterfront dining ties to the area. Two individual structures choice on their menu. “As soon as shovel will be constructed, with the indoor dining hits dirt, we area covering will work almost 6,000 nonstop until sq. ft. with the project is the covered, finished. Our outdoor patio goal is to be area spanning open Novemroughly another ber 21, and, 4,000 sq. ft. based on priGuests or experience, will be I think we able to will be able to Construction is expected to begin visit Finn’s hit that date,” this month on a new waterside by car and restaurant in Apollo Beach. said Michael boat, as Disser, owner of Finn’s Dockside Bar & the wornGrill, a new restaurant expected to begin d o w n construction this month. d o c k s The vacant parcel of land at 1112 Apollo currentBeach Blvd., located between Bella Sol and ly on location will be demolished and reCircles Waterfront Restaurant, has been built, adding space for up to 15 vessels owned by Apollo Beach’s favorite land- and parking created with the capacity to scaper, Mr. Kim, since 2002. When asked handle 90 vehicles. Thanks to the required why the almost 2-acre prime waterfront 30-foot setback from the seawall, Disser location has sat vacant this long, Disser, revealed an event lawn and sitting area who also owns Soho Saloon and the Pinel- covered with sand and crushed shells that las area Moe’s Southwest Grill locations, will make for the perfect transition from told me he has been working with Mr. Kim sea to land. for over 8 months trying to get the projThe layout and atmosphere of Finn’s will ect up and running. The two recently came be similar to Salt Shack On the Bay, with to an agreement on a 99-year land lease, guests being able to enjoy unobstructed with Disser and his team responsible for views of Florida sunsets while enjoying construction and all restaurant operations unique, island-themed drinks and a soand Mr. Kim contributing to site prepa- phisticated yet casual menu highlighted ration, dock construction and, of course, by fresh seafood along with sandwiches landscaping. and burgers. Entertainment under the When complete, the $4.5M build-out stars will be provided nightly at the tiki will employ a staff around 80, adding not bar along with a variety of happy hour only a destination spot for locals and tour- specials for guests to enjoy daily.
May 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
FORMER COUNTY COMMISSIONER MURMAN JOINS SHUMAKER ADVISORS FLORIDA, LLC By Kathy L. Collins
Page 23
CIRQUE ITALIA BRINGS GROWN UP CIRCUS ALCATRAZ TO BRANDON Staff Report
Former Hillsborough County Commis- orities that will surely move our communithroughout the tent, a Do you feel the need sioner Sandra Murman has joined the ty forward. It is a wonderful opportunity mask mandate for anyaway get and escape to firm of Shumaker Advisors Florida, LLC. and I cannot wait to get started.” one over 3 years of age aren’t We all? it from Shumaker Advisors Florida, LLC is a pubMurman stated, “My experience as a Hillfor purchase (available dream a about talking lic affairs and sborough Counincreased needed), if being but here, vacation government rety commissionsanitihand of number toughthe of one in stuck lations firm speer and state and in stations zation history. in prisons est cializing in adrepresentative, all and tent around Cirque of star the Will vocacy, business especially my be will areas common survive to able be Italia development, time as speaker wiped down and discoalition building pro tem in the in the infamous Alcatraz? infected every 10-15 Branin out find can You and communicaFlorida House minutes. May Thursday, from don tion strategies has given me The show will take 6. June Sunday, to 27 while serving at keen insight to under the orange place feaAlcatraz Cirque the federal, state find solutions big top tent striped aeririveting tures and local levels of to our commuCirque Italia brings Alcatraz to Bran- at 459 Brandon Town jaw-dropping acts, al government. nity problems. don from Thursday, May 27 to Sunday, Center Dr. in the WestMurman has Joining Shu- stunts, incredible disJune 6. field Brandon parking strength human of plays provided decades maker Advisors The shows will take lot. mystifying balance, and of public service Sandra Murman has joined the firm of Shumaker Ad- Florida, LLC is on Thursday, May place comedy and illusions to the residents visors Florida, LLC. Murman, who has dedicated years a great fit for Friday, May 28 and 27 audithe guiding while of Hillsborough of service to the residents of Hillsborough County, has me to use that p.m.; Saturday, 7:30 at narrathe through ence been a leading figure in state and local government. County, especialexperience with at 6:30 and 29 May She will bring those years of experience and expertise to tive. ly the Greater an outstanding her new role. Sunday, May p.m.; 9:30 is production This Brandon area. team of lawyers and 8:30 5:30 at 30 raw the to due R rated Murman was a member of the Hillsbor- and advisors to continue my work in the May Monday, and p.m.; Alstory. the of content ough County Board of County Commission- community and to help the people that I at Day) (Memorial 31 nuno is there though ers from 2010 to 2020. She served as the have served.” p.m. 7:30 lanadult is there dity, board’s chair on two different occasions. Murman added, “I serve on numerous Shows from WednesPrior to joining the county commission, boards that deal with our precious chil- guage, acts of simulated to Friday, June 2-4 day suggestive and violence Sandy served eight years in the Florida dren and families in our community and take place at 7:30 will situations. and dialogue House of Representatives, where she was Shumaker Advisors Florida, LLC will give On Saturday, June p.m. that requiring are We the first Republican woman to hold the po- me that opportunity to assist them in even shows will be at the 5, 13 of age the of child any sition of speaker pro tempore. greater ways to help give them a chance 9:30 p.m., and and 6:30 accompanied be up and Prior to her time in Tallahassee, Mur- for a better life and make Hillsborough at 5:30 shows have will 6 June Sunday, Anyone older. or years 21 of adult an by man worked for a Fortune 500 company County the best place to live, work and p.m. 8:30 and granted be not will 13 of age the below and spent countless hours helping organi- play.” For more information, visit www. zations that dealt with child abuse in our Former County Commissioner Les Mill- access. and make sure to check cirqueitalia.com, recomall enforcing is Italia Cirque community. er, who has served in the both the Floriaccounts. Tickets media social its out loand CDC the by forth set mendations Murman said, “I am thrilled to be joining da House of Representatives and Florida depend$10-$50, for purchased be can municipalities. cal the incredible team at Shumaker Advisors Senate as well as having been a member be purcan Tickets availability. on ing accommodations and Adjustments Florida, LLC and to begin the work of help- of the Tampa City Council, has also joined texting or calling by or online chased socapacity, seating restricted include ing clients throughout the region with pri- Shumaker Advisors Florida, LLC. cially distanced seating with visual cues 941-704-8572.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
A KID’S PLACE TEACHES KIDS HOW TO CULTIVATE PRODUCE
By Samantha Trezevant
kitchen coordinator. Jeff Krenz, property manager, even said that “There are little tiny blossoms and teeny-tiny tomatoes and peppers already.” ACF Tampa Bay Culinary Association is who made this experience possible, particularly Vanessa and Rene Marquis. Their team graciously provided the supplies and knowledge on how to plant and grow their own fruits and vegetables. The process allowed The children from A Kid’s Place learning all about how to plant fruits and veggies.
Childhood is an era of growth and learning in every child. A Kid’s Place ensures that every child it cares for experiences the best learning experience possible. Since 2009, A Kid’s Place has been serving Tampa’s community by touching the lives of over 1,520 children and 665 families through providing a safe haven for foster children as well as an amazing educational program. The newest addition to the organization is a garden. This garden is rooted in the belief that it is important for every child to learn about the growth of produce. The mission of the garden program is to connect children with nature and promote an understanding of vegetable planting and their role in healthy eating habits. This aids A Kid’s Place’s overall mission of providing a safe, loving and nurturing home for foster children. It was a special experience for the children; “The kids have been so excited to check the progress of the garden and help take care of it,” according Laura Herres,
the children to explore their inner creative side by personalizing the buckets that their produce was planted in. The children enjoyed getting their hands dirty, and even playing food-themed games. The kids loved this as it actually gave them a chance to play with their food. Soon, they will harvest their own fruits and veggies on harvest day. You can help support A Kid’s Place by donating to it, hosting a fundraiser, volunteering, hosting a drive and even shopping. To learn more, visit https://akidsplacetb. org/ways-to-help/, or visit its Facebook and Twitter pages @AKidsPlaceTB.
Volume 16, Issue 5
FAMILY PHYSICIAN USES TRUST AND TIME TO CONNECT WITH PATIENTS Staff Report Dr. Frank Sirchia, ists and all major hospiMD, a physician of tals in the area, including family medicine at Tampa General Hospital, Millennium Physician St. Joseph’s, Brandon Group, has been pracand Advent Hospitals. ticing in Riverview for We will efficiently prior26 years. He focusitize and respond to any es on prevention and of your medical needs chronic disease manto maximize your health agement and combines outcome,” he said. Dr. cutting-edge medicine Sirchia’s vision of patient and coordination of care includes providing care with a compasa medical home for his sionate approach. “I patients, and not just a Dr. Frank Sirchia, MD, a physician of put the patient first,” family medicine, has been practicing in service. he said. “This is what’s Riverview for 26 years and now works “My philosophy is to emwith Millennium Physician Group. in my heart and what I brace the patient and do trained for. It’s why I became a Family Med- everything in my power to improve their icine physician.” daily life and their quality of life,” he said. Dr. Sirchia treats patients of all ages. In “That relationship can only be forged from fact, he said he’s treated some local families trust and time.” for five generations. “The family approach Dr. Sirchia’s office is accepting new pato medicine is all about creating a con- tients, offers same-day appointments and nection with your patients,” he explained. urgent care and can also accommodate “When you’re able to create a relationship walk-ins. He and his team strive to avoid and build trust over years and generations, unnecessary hospitalizations and wasted it helps achieve an overall sense of well-be- emergency room visits. ing for the patient.” “Let’s create a strong foundation and Dr. Sirchia and his medical team pride get you on the right road,” he said. “Overthemselves on providing state-of-the-art, all well-being is the goal, and I hope my evidence-based, comprehensive medicine patients feel a lot better on their way out and practice preventive care. They empha- than when they came in.” He added, “Welsize treatment and management of major come to our family. It is time to be in your illnesses like coronary heart diseases, diabe- best health. As the physician leader of the tes, hypertension, lung disease, cancer and Millennium Physician Group in Brandon/ depression. Riverview, we are completely committed to Acknowledging the grassroots and serv- your total well-being, and the clinic is now ing the community in which he proudly ready to serve you.” Call 423-7123. The Millives is at the heart of his approach, said lennium Physician Group office is located at Dr. Sirchia. “Our expertise has earned the 6037 Winthrop Commerce Ave., Ste. 210, trust of families for 26 years, and we have in Riverview and is open Monday-Friday 7 strong relationships with leading special- a.m.-4 p.m.
LIVE BRIGHT SPRING SALES EVENT
May 2021
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
PEOPLES GAS REMINDS FLORIDIANS TO CALL 811 BEFORE STARTING DIGGING PROJECTS
Staff Report
Throughout April, Sunshine 811, Peoples cators will visit job sites and mark natural Gas and other utilities were promoting the gas lines around homes and businesses. 14th annual National Safe Digging Month, Here are some tips to remember: and although the month has passed, digCall 811 or visit sunshine811.com at ging safely is still least two full business a must. When digdays before digging to ging unprepared, make your request, givpeople risk hitting ing utility companies the network of enough time to propwires, cables and erly mark lines. When pipelines locatyou call 811, you will ed underground. be asked for the locaStriking one of tion(s) and description these underground Last month, Peoples Gas promoted National Safe of your digging project. utility lines could Digging Month. Digging unprepared comes with Sunshine 811 notifies result in loss of nat- the risk of hitting underground utility lines and affected utility compaural gas, electric, injuring yourself or others, potentially resulting in nies, who then send a water or commu- fines and repair costs, so be sure to call 811 first. professional locator to Photo courtesy of Peoples Gas. nications and cable mark the approximate services; injure you or others; and poten- location of underground equipment for tially result in fines and repair costs. free. “Thousands of our customers saw their Check the Sunshine 811 Positive Renatural gas service impacted by damage to sponse link at sunshine811.com and, once pipelines during excavation or DIY projects all utilities have responded, roll up those last year,” said Luke Buzard, vice president sleeves and dig carefully within 24 inches of Pipeline Safety and Regulatory Affairs of any marks in your project area. for Peoples Gas. “When homeowners forEven if you are not digging, remember get to call 811 before digging, they run the to leave any markers—paint or flags—in risk of damaging their own service lines. place. They are a sign of work that may When excavators don’t follow safe digging be coming soon to your area by a utility or practices, even if they call 811 ahead of a contractor. project, the impact is much greater—hunPeoples Gas System, Florida’s largest dreds of residents and businesses can lose natural gas distribution utility, serves more utility service from just one hit line.” than 425,000 customers across the state. Call 811 and Sunshine 811—a call cen- Peoples Gas is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a ter and educational resource for Florida’s geographically diverse energy and services excavators, underground facility owners company headquartered in Halifax, Nova and operators and any other stakeholders Scotia, Canada. wanting to prevent excavation damage to For more information, visit peoplesgas. underground facilities—will notify all ap- com and sunshine811.com. For a step-bypropriate utility companies of your intent step process to digging safely, visit www. to dig, and then Peoples Gas’ team of lo- sunshine811.com/homeowner/.
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Page 25
DREW’S RV TECHS, EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST By Amy Schechter hicles that big box stores won’t try to replace.” If you’re ready to trade in or buy, Drew’s RV Techs has upfront pricing and financing options to fit your budget. Anklin and his team strive for their customers to have peace of mind when Whether it’s your it comes to buying home or your home and maintaining your away from home, a investment. recreational vehicle Not ready to jump (RV) makes for priceinto an RV of your less memories and own? Check out enjoyable adventures, Cruise America RV and Drew’s RV Techs Rental, located onhas what you need to site. It has a variety keep your family drivof small, standard ing for years to come. and large-size RVs, Drew’ s RV Techs has what you need to keep Family-owned and so you can explore the your family driving for years to come. operated, Drew’s RV open road whether Techs boasts an extensive inventory of you want to rough it out in wilderness new and pre-owned RVs for sale plus parks or camp in style. It’s the perfect knowledgeable and experienced technifamily vacation and a great opportunity cians. Check out their competitive pricto experience all of what RVs have to ofes and personalized service the big box fer. stores cannot complete with. For more information, call 645-7870 Drew Anklin, owner and operator, with or visit www.drewsrvtechs.com and over 30 years of experience working on www.cruiseamerica.com/rv-rental-loand around RVs, knows the difference. cations/florida/tampa. Drew’s RV Techs “We have a huge emphasis on family. and Cruise America are located at 1601 An RV is important to your family. We S. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Ruskin. They are on will take on projects from the roof to open weekdays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and on the wheel bearings and everything in Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 Noon. between. We have parts for older ve-
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
15TH ANNUAL FAMILY CAR SHOW AND CRAFT FAIR AT BAY LIFE CHURCH IS BETTER THAN EVER Staff Report
2021 COMMUNITY WATER WISE AWARDS PROGRAM By Lynn Barber, FL-Friendly Landscaping™ Agent The deadline for entries is Wednesday, June 30. You can complete your application now, which will take about five to 10 minutes, then submit it online at the link above. Attaching a photo or two is helpful. On-site landThe City of Tampa Community Water Wise Award winner is Anni Ellis. scape evaluDoes your landscape have what it takes ations will be scheduled and conducted to win? Enter today to find out. in July and August, with homeowners The 2021 Community Water Wise and business owners available. Winning Awards, sponsored by Tampa Bay Water, entries will receive a handmade mosawere created to recognize individuals and ic stepping stone for homeowners or a businesses committed to conserving our plaque option for businesses. If you have water resources and protecting the envi- questions regarding the Tampa Bay Waronment by using Florida-Friendly Land- ter Community Water Wise Award proscaping™ (FFL) principles. There are nine gram, please contact me at 744-5519, ext. FFL principles which include: right plant, 54105. right place; water efficiently; fertilize apToday is a great time to complete and propriately; mulch, attract wildlife; man- submit your application. For more inage yard pests responsibly; recycle; re- formation about the Florida-Friendly duce stormwater runoff; and protect the Landscaping™ Program, assistance with waterfront. Many of these principles are gardening and irrigation system-related used as part of the landscape evaluation questions, contact the UF/IFAS Extenprocess for this awards program. sion Hillsborough County at 744-5519, You can view photographs and watch and visit our website at http://sfyl.ifas. short videos of past winners at https:// ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/ awards.tampabaywaterwise.org/. The top for upcoming workshops. We hope to rephoto on this link is the 2020 Unincor- ceive your entry soon. Thanks in advance porated Hillsborough County Community for participating. Contact Lynn Barber at Water Wise Award-winning landscape. barberL@hcflgov.net.
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Volume 16, Issue 5
Car lovers, mark your calendars. The annual Bay Life Car Show and Craft Fair is back and better than ever. The 15th annual car show, to take place at Bay Life Church, will kick off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 29 and is open to the public with more than 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 will set up for a fun day for the whole family. “The Bay Life car show originally began as a community outreach to do something fun and involve our local car aficionados,” said Bay Life Church’s communications director, Stephen Stough. “Steve Hardy, the longtime Bay Life maintenance supervisor, took the initiative to organize our first event.” Over the years, other Bay Life members got involved and the event grew into a fundraiser for the church’s missions. In addition to the cars, guests will have the opportunity to purchase affordable food and shop at a full craft show with more than 50 vendors, including many offering auto-related items. After a special opening celebration with a color guard and the national anthem to honor the USA, fun for the whole family will include a DJ, a live band, a 50/50
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drawing, games and events just for the kids and more than 70 trophies to be 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. “Bay Life Church missions and student ministries send several trips throughout the U.S. and internationally to support our mission partners,” Stough said. “Every penny raised from food and beverage sales, raffles and donations goes to support Bay Life global missions.” You can preregister 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. Bay Life Church is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
May 2021
T&J PAINTING
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CARE PACKAGE MEAL PREP CO.
JOINS THE RIVERVIEW COMMUNITY
By Libby Hopkins
Tony and Jensaid. “T&J nifer Friedrichsen Painting are fairly new prides itself to the Riverview on being famcommunity. They ily-owned, are originally professionfrom Missouri alism at its and they are the finest, with owners of T&J family valPainting. “We met ues and a in college at the high-quality University of Miswork ethsouri and we got ic being the married and had motivation two kids,” Tony behind all we T&J Painting is Riverview’s latest commercial and said. “I got my do.” degree in com- residential painting specialist. If you’d like to learn more T&J Paintabout T&J Painting and the services it offers, visit www. munications and ing is also a tandjpaintingfl.com or call it at 723-9124. started working member of in sales. I got a master’s in business ad- the Riverview Chamber of Commerce. ministration and then, when the econ- “When my wife was looking for a chamomy tanked in 2008, I started doing ber to be a part of, she went to look some construction work and painting as into joining the Riverview Chamber and well. Since I was getting a lot of work ended up staying for a meeting,” Tony as a painter, we decided to start our said. “They made her feel very welcome own painting business.” From there, T&J and she called me and said, ‘I found the Painting was born. chamber I want us to join.’ The chamber T&J Painting is Riverview’s latest has been wonderful in helping us get our commercial and residential painting name out in the Riverview community.” specialist. “We have enjoyed working Keeping things local is very importwith a wide variety of unique clientele, ant to Tony and Jennifer. “We are still from the residential homeowner to mul- very new to the Riverview area and we tifamily apartments, as well as condo- will be here a year in November,” Tony minium housing and local restaurants said. “We want the Riverview commuto large commercial building and ware- nity to know we are here to help them house remodels,” Tony said. “We are with making their homes or commercial full-service paint professionals offering properties look great and to add more quality painting along with deck and value to them.” fence staining, wood rot replacement If you’d like to learn more about T&J and extensive repair services.” Painting and the services it offers, you T&J Painting is a licensed and insured can visit them on the web at www.tandlocal business. “We are true experts jpaintingfl.com or call Tony and Jennifer with over a decade of experience,” Tony at 723-9124.
SPECIALIZES IN CUSTOM MEALS TO FULFILL CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS
By Hayley Fedor
Ever find yourself for a meal ready in craving a delicious minutes. and nutritious qualThe company’s ity meal but lack mission is “to give the time and energy restaurant quality to put it together? food from real chefs Care Package Meal to people’s homes, Prep Co. has you without preservacovered, serving up tives or hormones fine dining restauor injections,” said rant-quality food Cates. with no GMOs or Cates and his staff Care Package Meal Prep Co. employee E.J. preservatives and an at Care Package Meal Oliveras displaying the quality customer care that abundance of flavor. Prep Co. are all about comes with each and every meal delivery. Care Package meeting the needs Meal Prep Co. got its start of the customers, offerwhen Owner and Operaing unique meal plans for tions Director Jason Cates vegans and vegetarians, decided to take his expein addition to individualrience working with a naized custom meal plans tional food prep company for customers with speand combine it with his cific dietary restrictions expertise as a fine dining like low-sodium and gluexecutive chef in many ten-free options. restaurants, including Boca in Brandon. For any occasions or events, Care PackAs a result of the pandemic, Cates made age Meal Prep Co. provides one-of-a-kind the decision within the last year to launch catering as well. The company also works Care Package Meal Prep Co. in order to frequently with the schools in the area to open up job opportunities for food service provide not just healthy but also satisfying employees as local restaurants closed. and delicious food for their events. “Out-of-work service industry was the “We hit any budget for our local schools. main reason for launching Care Package. I COVID-friendly meals that are individhad to look into the eyes of hundreds of em- ually bagged and packed, as well as ployees as I told them that our restaurants COVID-friendly buffet packages,” said were closing, that all restaurants were Cates. closing, with uncertainty and fear. I had to Direct local delivery is offered in Riverdo everything in my power to give them a view, Brandon, Valrico and Lithia. Famichance,” said Cates. ly-style meal prep and meal prep subscripThrough Care Package Meal Prep Co., tions ship anywhere in Florida for free. family-style meals made with fresh, quality To find more information about Care ingredients are presented to individuals via Package Meal Prep Co., visit carepackthe company’s online storefront. Food items agemp.com, or call 913-710-4907 for a come in microwave-safe containers perfect consultation.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
GFWC BRANDON SERVICE LEAGUE PRESENTS FUNDS TO AREA NONPROFITS AND HIGH SCHOOLS By Kathy L. Collins On April 19, the Each year, a GFWC Brandon committee Service League puts together held its first Spring a list of orgaSporting Clays nizations and Fundraiser Shoot presents them and Dinner at to club for seFishHawk Sportlection.” ing Clays in Lithia. Cheryl HickThe event was an man, founder opportunity for and executive the members to director of celebrate and Hope for Her, The GFWC Brandon Service present funds to League is made up of a group of said, “25 percent several area non- vivacious and caring women who work tirelessly to of homeless are profits and area serve the Greater Brandon community. After a year women. We help high schools. of no in-person gatherings, they were able to come them regain staThe event was together and celebrate at the first event of 2021 and bility and get them enjoyed by one present funds to area nonprofits and high schools. back on their feet. and all. The members of the club were ex- This donation will directly impact what we cited to present proceeds from the 2019 are able to do.” Holiday Home Tour. In total, $5,400 was Swanson said, “This was our first event presented to Brandon Outreach Clin- since the COVID-19 shutdown. We have ic, Hope for Her (formerly known as the held regular meetings live and via Zoom Women’s Resource Center of Brandon), since September 2020, but this was our Winthrop Arts, Choices Pregnancy Center, first community event.” New Horizons Group Homes and the arts Swanson added, “We want the commudepartments from six area high schools nity to know that GFWC Brandon Service (Brandon, Bloomingdale, Newsome, Du- League is still here. We have been quiet for rant, Armwood and Riverview). over a year, with no events and no club Bradlee Swanson, co-president of the news. We are cautiously opening up our GFWC Brandon Service League, said, “We doors, so to speak, with more club events were excited to be able to finally make and community outings. We are accepting those donations. As the world was put on new members and love to have visitors. hold for most of 2020, it is a wonderful Our club service year is winding down, feeling to know that we are back out in the but we be will working over the summer community trying to make a difference.” to plan events and club gatherings for the Swanson added, “We choose our non- fall. We meet the second Thursday of each profit recipients for a variety of reasons. month, September to May, at New Hope The needs of the nonprofit organization United Methodist Church in Brandon.” along with their involvement and commuVisit www.gfwcbrandonserviceleague. nity impact are taken into consideration. org.
Volume 16, Issue 5
CYPRESS CREEK CO OP OPENS ITS FIRST STOREFRONT By Lily Belcher
Six years ago, single mom of two Cassie Adams was working as a salesperson at a wholesale market. She would bring fresh produce home to her family by the bin, which would always leave her with too much. Adams reached out to a few families in her neighborhood and began to create a network of families that would buy the leftover produce. By the fourth week, she had 60 families involved, and Cypress Creek Co Op grew from there. Since the small neighborhood group started on Facebook, it has grown to over 28,000 members and opened its first permanent storefront at the end of April. The storefront, which is located in Apollo Beach just off Hwy. 41, will give customers the opportunity to shop for the produce the co-op offers or purchase full bins any time. Cypress Creek Co Op customers who cannot make it to the storefront can order bins online to pick up at walk or drive-through pop-up locations, which Adams and the co-op temporarily set up a day at a time, or have it delivered to them. Customers pay when the bins are picked up or delivered. Cypress Creek Co Op offers opportunities for families to purchase bins of seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as
dairy, bread, meats and flan, from local farmers. “I try to buy local [first] based on what is in season. Most produce has a growing season and purchasing fruits/veggies in season at wholesale amounts can save you greatly,” explained Adams. “Not all produce is local. We do not have any apple orchards here in Florida … they grow in Washington and New York. Grapes grow better in California. I try to shoot for [five] veggies and [five] fruits every week; however, some weeks may differ.” It offers two different bin sizes: medium, which feeds a family of four, and large, which feeds a family of five to seven. Customers can also buy weekly special and extras bins when they make their purchase on Cypress Creek Co Op’s website after paying a $5 annual membership fee. Adams also offers volunteer opportunities for community organizations, such as the Girl/Boy Scouts of America, to help distribute the bins at the pop-up store locations. They also bring meals to first responders throughout the year and migrant families over the summer. For more information or to purchase produce bins, visit cypresscreekcoop. com or contact Adams at 252-258-0199 or cypresscreekcoop@gmail.com.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
May 2021
BRANDON BALLET ANNOUNCES RICHARD MUNRO SCHOLARSHIP WINNER AND AUDITIONS FOR SUMMER INTENSIVE The 2020 winner of the Richard Munro Intensive is a progressive and cumulative Memorial Scholarship is Mariela Morales, three-week program designed to enhance a young dancer who has been performing technique and artistry in an inclusive yet with The Dance Center intensive preprofessional and Brandon Ballet for environment. Attendees over 10 years. will work with a variety Hannah Townend, adof renowned dance teachministrative director for ers in a range of styles, the Brandon Ballet, said, including contemporary, “Morales is one who is improvisation and modadmired by her peers and ern, in addition to daily Brandon Ballet Artistic classes in ballet technique Director Doricha Sales and pointe. Through their for her innate, vivacious exposure to these assortperformance presence ed genres of movement, and her ability to blosdancers will have the som under pressure. In opportunity to reinforce just this season alone, their skills as well as Morales has tackled and learn repertoire and/or Mariela Morales, a young dancshone in three of the variations in that style. er with The Dance Center and hardest variations from Brandon Ballet, is the 2020 winner According to Townend, La Bayadere, Raymon“This year’s list of guest of the Richard Munro Memorial da and Goddess Flora in teachers is extensive. JaScholarship. our production of For the cob Taylor, an emerging Love of Aurora. Morales is choreographer based in a driven, intellectual dancer and Connecticut and New York City, she plans to take the life lessons will be creating an original conlearned in the dance studio to temporary ballet piece for the pursue an education and career advanced dancers. Courtney in nursing.” Moody is a current Brandon Morales said of her scholarBallet principal professional ship win, “I am thrilled to have received dancer and teacher at The Dance Center. this scholarship and am honored and in- Allison Jay Barber is an exquisite dancer spired to continue dancing.” with a prolific performance career and a You can see Morales’ joyful dancing in current adjunct ballet professor at Florthe fourth and final production of the sea- ida Southern College. We will also have son, The Agony and the Ecstasy, on Satur- Doricha Sales, Marquis Floyd, Rose Forte day, May 1 at 7:30 p.m. at Riverview High Hensley, Sarah Parry, Hannah Townend Theatre. You can get tickets and more in- and Brentwood Townend.” formation at www.brandonballet.org. Prospective dancers who would like to Brandon Ballet offers serious dancers audition can submit a video audition by an opportunity to improve their skills and Saturday, May 22 at 5 p.m. For more inwork with talented dancers in its Sum- formation, please visit www.brandonbalmer Intensive. Brandon Ballet’s Summer let.org/summer.
MEALS ON WHEELS OF TAMPA AND WINTHROP ARTS COME TOGETHER TO PROVIDE MEALS AND ART TO RECIPIENTS Meals on Wheels of Tampa and Win- this location. Cindy Vann, senior director of throp Arts have embarked on a unique col- mission engagement, said, “We sought this laboration. As Meals on Wheels of Tampa location because of its proximity to the Giblaunches new service routes in Riverview sonton and Riverview neighborhoods.” Vann and Gibsonton, Winthrop Arts is creating added, “We have unique works of art to been so grateful be given to each new by the leaderrecipient on the routes. ship’s warm and Bryant Martinez, open reception lead art instructor for to partner with Winthrop Arts, said, us in service to our “We are excited about homebound neighthis new partnership. bors.” Art offers happiness. Meals on Wheels We hope that our creof Tampa is always ations will make somelooking for volunteers, one happy.” especially “We are excited for the new about partnering with routes. If you Winthrop Arts. This are interested new opportunity to in volunteering work with another (delivering a nonprofit seeking to route takes about one enrich lives through hour), please call 238art and connection is 8410 or visit www. a wonderful addition mowtampa.org. of care for those we Meals on Wheels serve,” said Kelly Sanof Tampa recently intos, recipient project creased the capacity Meals on Wheels of Tampa will begin serving manager for Meals on of its new, state-ofroutes in Riverview and Gibsonton. Wheels of Tampa. the-art commercial Meals on Wheels of Tampa will begin kitchen, which allows it to serve more. The serving the new routes on Tuesday, June 1. decision to serve this area was made based Recipients will receive a hot, daily meal de- on the number of calls it receives asking for livered by volunteers who give of their time, assistance. Vann said, “The pandemic has their vehicles and of their compassion, mak- shown a bright light on the need for food ing this mission possible. and a caring visit from community volunThe new pickup partner for Meals on teers to ensure independence, safety and Wheels of Tampa is First Baptist Church of dignity as seniors and homebound individuRiverview, located at 8626 U.S. Hwy. 301 als seek to live in their own homes.” S. The volunteers will come to this location If you or a family member are hometo get the meals packed in the bags and bound and are challenged to get out of the coolers. After they deliver their route, they house to purchase groceries and to prepare will bring back their empty containers to meals, please call 238-8410.
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Page 29
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 5
PICTURES COURTESY OF TOMMY BRANNEN
TGH ICE PLEX WINS FIRST ISI FIGURE SKATING NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN ITS HISTORY Tampa’s TGH Ice Plex performed in its first figure skating competition in 14 months. It’s team did not disappoint, winning the 2021 Spring Classic at the RDV Sportsplex Ice Den in Orlando for the first Ice Sports Industry (ISI) National Championship in the rink’s history. “I was excited and relieved,” said Anna Barile of TGH Ice Plex won the first ISI national championship in its history. TGH Ice Plex, who was tied for most events compet66 competing in the classic. TGH Ice ed in with 10. “Our team was a close Plex’s ice skaters ranged in age from second at the last competition over a the youngest, at 5, to the oldest, Heyear ago, so everyone was working ex- lyn Rodgers, at 68. ISI created a point tra hard to get first this time. It was system, adding up the total points acour rink’s first championship at an ISI cumulated from each individual skatnational competition.” er based on how well they placed in The Spring Classic was held from events. April 30 to May 2 with rinks from 10 “I love skating because I feel so free different states competing, including on the ice,” said Caleigh Yick, 11. “SkatAlabama, Alaska, Connecticut, Florida, ing alone is great, but I have even more Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, fun with my pairs partner, ensemble Missouri, South Dakota and Texas. TGH group and sync team.” Ice Plex (formerly the Ice Sports FoTGH Ice Plex Skating Director Tomrum) had the most total skaters with my Brannen, who has held that posi-
TGH Ice Plex performed in its first figure skating competition in 14 months.
tion since 2005, said that most of the skaters that competed came from the arena’s Learn to Skate program for beginning skaters. Brannen was very proud of how his skaters competed and performed. “I was very happy and excited for all the kids, the parents and the arena,” said Brannen. “It was an awesome moment that came together from all the hard work that the kids have done. What makes me most proud is
the character of the kids and the hard work they put in, as well as the coaching staff that put their heart and soul into coaching their students.” The classic win was extra special, considering that TGH Ice Plex hadn’t performed in a competition in 14 months because of the pandemic. It typically participates in about four local competitions each year. TGH Ice Plex received a banner, which proudly hangs in the arena, as well as a trophy to display in the trophy case at the rink. “Times are changing and hopefully skating is coming around and everybody is excited to get back to competing again,” said Brannen. According to Brannen, the team will participate in a local competition in Oldsmar next month from Friday to Sunday, June 4-6. He welcomes anybody that is interested to join and participate in the Learn to Skate program, which is open year-round. “We’d like to continue to support each other as a team and to perform well at our next competition in early June,” said Barile.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
May 2021
THE WATER WIZARD OF AMERICAN WATER & WINDOWS WORKS HIS MAGIC By Amy Schechter Hard water can The water tastes betcause problems in your ter, makes skin and home. Scale buildup hair feel softer and exin pipes can damage tends the life of your them and impede flow pipes and appliances. over time. Appliances, If you’re in your home such as dishwashers for the long run, it is an and water heaters, can investment you cannot suffer from that same afford to skip. buildup, causing you Bancroft stands beto repair or replace hind his product and he them early. Hard water is truly devoted to our makes it more difficult community. “In 2017, to clean clothes, cutI was the honorary lery, and even yourself. deputy mayor of RiverThat is where you want President Gary Bancroft of American view. I had a wonderful Water & Windows. a dependable watime raising monter purifier and ey for charity,” he softener, and said. Everything with 30 years he raised went to of experience, Faces of Courage, American Water a local nonprofit & Windows will that offers free keep your home’s camps for men, water running. women and chilPresident of dren with cancer American Water and other illness& Windows Gary es. Bancroft is truly American Wathe Water Wizter & Windows ard. He is proud also specializes in to offer an amazthe installation of ing product: a punew and replaceAmerican Water & Windows’ purifier/water rifier anti-scale ment windows, conditioner. water conditioner so if you are lookwith no salt and no electricity required. ing to upgrade your home with custom, “It’s virtually maintenance-free. You high-efficiency windows before the hurnever have to buy salt again, and you ricane season, it can help. For informaonly have to change one filter every two tion, call 684-PURE(7873) or visit www. years,” said Bancroft. His customers rave americanwaterusa.com. It is open seven about the ease of operation and costs days a week from 9 a.m.-9 p.m., so it can that continually beat the competition. fit into your schedule.
July 7, 2021
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BRANDON LEAGUE OF FINE ARTS RETURNS TO CENTER PLACE FINE ARTS & CIVIC ASSOCIATION By Libby Hopkins In 1959, a group now able to have of Brandon area arttheir Studio Monists and art lovers days, members’ first organized what meetings and was to become the member shows beBrandon League of cause the league Fine Arts. Wishing is back at Center to support and enPlace. We are finalcourage the cultural ly back home.” life of the Greater The league Brandon area, these maintains a close dedicated men and relationship with women formed an Center Place and organization called provides supthe Brandon Area port for monthly Art Center. art exhibitions In 1977, the in the Mook GalBrandon Area Art The Brandon League of Fine Arts has been a part lery. “When I first Center’s name was moved to Brandon of Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association for changed to the many years. It is thrilled to be back at Center Place years ago, I heard Brandon League of creating art and holding their monthly meetings. about the BranFine Arts to better don League of Fine reflect the growing scope of the members’ Arts and I came to a meeting and I loved interests. “I have been a part of the group it,” said member Sue Allen. “The artists are since the beginning,” said member Rox- wonderful and the friendships I have made anne Tobaison. “I have held various offices with them over the years are priceless.” with the league at one time or the other, The purpose of the league is to inspire inbut what I like most about being a part terest in the arts through educational proof the league is the friendships I’ve made grams, to promote advancement of memover the years.” bers by providing opportunities to exhibit The league has had a close relationship their work and to serve the community with Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Associ- through enrichment of the cultural climate. ation. When the recent COVID-19 pandemIf you would like to learn more about ic hit, Center Place had to close its doors. the Brandon League of Fine Arts or if you’d With so many arts programs and museums like to become a member of the league, you closing due to the pandemic, Center Place can visit their website at www.blfa.us. The was almost forced to close permanently. league’s general membership meetings are “We were so thrilled when the Odiorne held on the third Monday of each month family and the new Center Place board at 7:30 p.m. in the Mook Gallery of Center stepped up to reopen Center Place,” said Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. member Doreen Donovan. “The league is B in Brandon.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 16, Issue 5
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