Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk July 2024

BLOOMINGDALE SOFTBALL REACHES STATES FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2014; HAS UNDEFEATED REGULAR SEASON

By Nick Nahas

The Bloomingdale High School Bulls softball team had a bullseye on their back all season long with an undefeated record.

The Lady Bulls started the season with a perfect 25-0 record before losing to Palmetto High School 4-1 in the district championship. Bloomingdale broke the record for most consecutive wins and had the best winning percentage in team history. It was also the first time in program history that the Lady Bulls went undefeated in the regular season, and it was their first regional championship since they won the state championship in 2014.

They also won the Bay Made Invitational and the Leopard Slam Invitational. They lost to Pace High School 1-0 in the state semifinal game.

“At the beginning of the season, we talked about establishing a winning culture,” said senior infielder Camryn VanGalder. “I really feel as if everyone bought into it and trusted each other, and that is a huge reason for our success this season.”

The team was led by fifth-year head coach Leah Pemberton, who played for the program from 2009-12. She was named the Hillsborough County Federal Division Western Conference Coach of the Year in 2023 after leading her team to back-to-back district championships. Pemberton said that her players had great team chemistry this season and

played for one another. She also said they did a lot of team bonding of the field.

“We had a conversation with our seniors at the beginning of the season about making sure that we don’t settle for a loss, or a one-run win, or practices that we didn’t do well,” said Pemberton. “That was our whole mentality change this year. The girls bonded so well and made an efort to be a team.”

University of California, Los Angeles, commit Natalie Cable was the standout star of the team, breaking the record for most strikeouts in a season by a pitcher. Junior Durant transfer Paige Sanchez was a clutch hitter for the team and Bryanna Rawling and VanGalder were key contributors.

“This team and coaching staf has prepared me for the next level by teaching me not to give up,” said Sanchez. “No matter what has happened in the innings before, those don’t matter, and to keep fighting and focus on the inning I’m in right now, and to always believe in yourself and keep going.”

Pemberton said that her team learned to have fun in not just winning but in the hardships as well, and they learned a great deal. The team will have to replace fi ve seniors, but they will have 12 returning players next season, including Cable. They will look to continue the winning culture.

Being a veteran is deemed an honorable sacrifice by many citizens in this country. The fact that there are people so patriotic that they have the guts to serve their country speaks volumes about the magnificence of America and its populace. So, what better way to respect our veterans than by giving them an unforgettable experience?

The Polk County Veterans Council’s Flight to Honor missions do just that. Plans are currently underway, and funds are being raised for the next Flight to Honor trip, Mission 10, in April 2025.

FLIGHT TO HONOR SEEKS GUARDIANS AND FUNDS FOR MISSION 10 IN APRIL 2025

By Gunnar Wagner

cation as well.”

When asked if Flight to Honor is seeing many World War II veterans or if it is helping more Vietnam War veterans nowadays, Clark said, “Few remaining World War II vets are able to travel. Most veterans now are Vietnam or later.”

How does Flight to Honor reach out to potential veterans who would be interested?

Clark answered,

Flight to Honor is an organization that was established in 2015 by United States Air Force Col. Gary Clark and he has been with the organization since then as a chairman. He also founded the Polk County Veterans Council in 2003 and is its chairman.

Flight to Honor provides veterans from World War II to now a free one-day trip (called ‘missions’) to our nation’s capital, specifically to see the veteran memorials that were erected there. Each veteran is accompanied by a ‘guardian,’ someone who ensures the safety of the veteran they are assigned to, so that both the veteran and the guardian have a safe and memorable experience.

When asked how someone can become a guardian and how a veteran can be a part of the trip, Clark said, “You must fill out an application to become a guardian and a veteran must also fill out a separate appli-

“The media, veteran organizations, market at events, etc.” He also said that the community can help by “volunteering, donating and sharing information.”

According to Flight to Honor’s website, fundraising is underway to cover the cost of its eforts. For more information about Flight to Honor or to sign up to become a guardian today, visit www. polkveteranscouncil.com/ flight-to-honor.html or call 863-602-0921. If you have any questions, you can email the organization at flighttohonorpolk@gmail.com.

You can also donate to the organization through ‘GiveWell Community Foundation: Flight to Honor 1501 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, FL 33803’ or by visiting the website at www.givecf.org.

Te Korean War Veterans Memorial was visited by Mission 8 participants.

Polk County residents welcoming back

Te Lady Bulls went undefeated in a regular season for the frst time in program history.

TROOP 61 SCOUTMASTER OF 15 YEARS PASSES ON THE REINS

Boy Scout Troop 61 is welcoming a new leader as longtime Scoutmaster Mike Beck departs and Jonathan Armel steps in as the new Scoutmaster.

Since moving to Tampa from Colorado in 2009, Beck jumped into the Boy Scouts and Troop 61 and never looked back, becoming Scoutmaster after just six months of involvement. He admitted that he did not know what he was getting into and there had been a huge learning curve.

“All I knew was I wanted to train and help boys become good men,” Beck said, while crediting the other leaders in the troop for helping him along the way.

Beck’s oldest sons, David, now 27, and Paul, now 25, were 12 and 11, respectively, when the Becks joined Troop 61. His other two boys, Jonathan and Ethan, are also involved in Scouting.

“Through mentorship, the Scoutmaster supports personal growth, advancement and character development while maintaining strong communication with Scouts, parents and the troop committee,” Beck explained. “By fulfilling these responsibilities, the Scoutmaster helps Scouts develop into responsible, capable and ethical individuals.”

As he turns over the leadership to Arm-

By Sharon Still

el, he reflected on the Scouts’ brand, “Prepared. For Life,” and said, “When I got the opportunity to help a Scout get better prepared to live a good life, that’s when I felt I was fulfilling my calling.”

At age 13, just a year older than his son, Joseph, is today, Armel joined the Boy Scouts.

“I loved the outdoors and wanted to go backpacking,” Armel reasoned, though he would come to find out that the Boy Scouts had much more to ofer than hiking and camping.

Now, he will take his experience and skills and share them with other young men as he takes over the role of Scoutmaster of Troop 61.

“I believe in Scouting and what the program has to ofer,” he said. “As a Scoutmaster, I can serve my community and mentor the next generation. I am passionate about making a diference and equipping boys with the skills to become men.”

As Scout leader, Armel said that he will continue the troop’s focus on character development.

“I have learned from Mr. Beck the importance of having a troop ‘Scout-led,’” he added. “This is something I will carry on.”

Boy Scout Troop 61 serves the Brandon, Riverview and Valrico areas. Meetings are held on Monday nights at Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, next to the Dunkin’.

DUAL ENROLLMENT PROGRAM EXPANDS OFFERINGS WITH HCC, USF AND UF OPTIONS

Within the state of Florida, more than 60,000 students participate in Florida’s dual enrollment program. Dual enrollment allows students to enroll in college classes to earn college credits that count for a student Associate in Arts degree while in high school. Dual enrollment is completely free for high school students in the state of Florida, meaning that enrolled students are saving money because they are able to take college classes now for free rather than have to pay for them later after high school.

In Hillsborough County, the most common way for students to partake in dual enrollment is through Hillsborough Community College (HCC), requiring only that the students attend school within the county (public school, private school or homeschool) and have an unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students applying for dual enrollment also need to have taken the PERT or have sent in their SAT or ACT score.

With many classes available online and teachers dedicated to the dual enrollment program, it is a great option for those who have busy schedules or lack transportation. More detailed information can be found at www.hccfl.edu/admissions/ steps-enroll/dual-enrollment-and-early-admissions.

Not as commonly known is that dual

By Solomon Bristow

enrollment is also available at the University of South Florida (USF) and, beginning in the 2024-25 school year, the University of Florida.

“Starting next year, the University of Florida will also be a dual enrollment partner — only juniors and seniors with the GPA requirements can apply to take dual enrollment,” said Debra Bellanti, director of media and public relations with Hillsborough County Public Schools.

Students who are interested in getting college credit from USF must meet USF’s requirements — including a 3.5 GPA and attending one of USF’s partner schools or districts — can earn college credits just as they would at HCC. Another crucial step is to take one of the following tests: SAT, ACT, PERT, CPT or CLT. Unlike HCC, USF does not have teachers set aside specifically for dual enrollment classes. This paired with the higher standards to be a part of the program make it a more competitive program in comparison to HCC’s dual enrollment. Visit www.usf.edu/early-university-programs/dual-enrollment/ index.aspx for more detailed requirements and information. To find out more about the program and to apply for dual enrollment, students must meet with either their counselor or their district superintendent.

Dual enrollment allows students to earn college credit for free while attending high school.

Outgoing Scoutmaster Mike Beck looks back 15 years to 2009 when he and sons, Jonathan and Ethan, joined Troop 61.

Te Beck family.

ATLANTA-BASED

VEGAN INFLUENCER

PINKY HOSTS VINE VEGAN RESTAURANT TAKE OVER

Slutty Vegan, a popular Atlanta, Georgia-based restaurant, took over Brandon’s Vine Vegan, located at 2080

Badlands Dr., from June 10 and 11. The restaurant takeover, from 6-11 p.m. each night, brought in over 800 people from all over Tampa Bay.

The two-day event was part of Slutty Vegan’s ‘Gettin’ Slutty Tour.’ Vine Vegan owner Danielle Stevens inquired about being part of the tour through Instagram. Within an hour of sending her message to owner Aisha ‘Pinky’ Cole, on June 5, they had the takeover scheduled.

One thousand burgers were sold, and they were sold-out on both nights 45 minutes before closing.

“This was one of the most incredible experiences. The new people we met and the exposure we got was amazing. The Slutty Vegan crew were like family a few hours into being here. It was an incredible collaboration,” Stevens said.

Slutty Vegan is a 100 percent plantbased burger restaurant known for risqué-themed, tasty food. The burger menu provided at Vine Vegan during the event included the One Night Stand, Fussy Hussy, and Sloppy Toppy.

Riverview resident Shani Williams was the first person in line on June 10, arriving a little after 4 p.m. It was not only her first time eating Slutty Vegan food,

By Jane Owen

but it was also her first time at Vine Vegan.

“I saw on Instagram that they were coming, and I was like, I’ve gotta try it. I got two diferent burgers so I could try them. I ordered two of the Sloppy Toppys and two of the One Night Stands,” Williams said.

On Tuesday, Eve Lue-Shing and her son, Michael Brown, from Sun City Center, were in town for a doctor’s appointment and stopped at Vine Vegan for lunch. They decided to stay for a Slutty Vegan dinner. Lue-Shing said she went to Slutty Vegan when it started in Atlanta as a food truck.

As regular Vine Vegan customers and longtime Slutty Vegan fans, Lue-Shing and Brown said they love the tasty options at both restaurants.

“At Vine Vegan, I’m hooked on the smash patty melt. It’s like a burger and grilled cheese in one.” Lue-Shing said.

Brown added that he gets a diferent chick’n sammy every time.

“I mainly stick to the chick’n sammies. They have five diferent flavors. I get a chick’n sammy, but I feel like it’s a different sandwich because I get a diferent flavor every time,” Brown said.

To learn more about the menu options at Vine Vegan, visit https://vinevegan. com/menu/. To learn more about Slutty Vegan, visit https://sluttyveganatl.com.

HOPE FOR HER CLAY SHOOT SUPPORTS WOMEN IN NEED

By Sharon Still

Helping women who are experiencing trauma and crises to restore confidence and self-worth and rebuild critical life skills to survive is the main mission of the local nonprofit organization Hope for Her. The upcoming Clay Shoot Tournament Fundraiser is one of its two fundraisers held each year, making it a critical time to gather funds and support to be able to continue its mission.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 14, for the Hope for Her Clay Shoot Tournament Fundraiser. The event will be held from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at FishHawk Sporting Clays, located at 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia.

Sponsorship opportunities are available from $500-$7,500, and each level includes at least one foursome. Men, women and mixed teams are invited to participate at a cost of $125 per player or $450 per team.

“All of the money goes right back into the ministry in Brandon,” said Hope for Her founder Cheryl Hickman, stressing the importance of a successful fundraiser for continued operations.

“We are hoping to get the communi-

ty excited about the organization and our events,” she added. If joining the tournament as a player or sponsor is not possible, area residents and businesses can still help out by donating to the Super Ra f e. Inkind donations of outdoor-related items, such as grills, coolers, hunting and fishing gear, restaurant gift certificates and other items, are needed. Hope for Her is a nonprofit organization founded and run by women who have endured serious life challenges and can relate to others going through much of the same. Single women and their children are o f ered the strength, skills and support needed to rebuild their lives after experiencing upheaval and crisis situations. The organization’s members work one-on-one with women to transform overwhelming circumstances into opportunities. Financial coaching, courses on topics like parenting and nutrition as well as employment assistance are just a few of the services that Hope for Her provides for those in need.

To register for the event or find out more information, visit www.hopeforherfl.org/clays or call 813-309-3357. Hope for Her’s o f ce hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

Te Atlanta, Georgia-based restaurant Slutty Vegan took over Brandon’s Vine Vegan on June 10 and 11.

your standard 2024 Toyota Corolla hatchback and soup it up, as in turbocharge the little ride, and voila! You have the high-performance Corolla GR, or a pocket rocket of a ride to drive that moves quickly but gently down the road and brakes just as swiftly, and with poise.

By Nitish Rele

again, the GR emblem lavishly displayed on the 12.3-inch color TFT multi-information display, steering wheel, engine start button and front head rests. The Brin Naub and synthetic leather seats with red stitches are gorgeous. Other standard amenities are the single-zone auto AC, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, six-way power driver’s and fourway front-passenger seats, eight-speaker JBL Premium Sound system, 60/40 rear folding seat with a center armrest, leather shifter knob and manual tilt/telescopic steering column.

An impressive 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine cranks out 300 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 273 pounds-feet of torque at 5,500 rpm. The all-wheel-drive hatch is mated to a sprightly and fun to drive 6-speed manual gear box. Rest assured that this chic Corolla will get up to speed with urgency, i.e., 0 to 60, in a mere 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 142 mph. The MacPherson strut front and double wishbone multilink rear suspension soak up obstacles with ease and maintain stability in all types of tricky situations. Though not as responsive as one would like, the electric power steering is precise and crisp. Eco, normal, sport and custom modes are at the driver’s disposal. Up front, the hatchback is sleek, sharp and eye-catching. Flanking the slim, J-shaped LED headlights and fog lamps is a gloss grille and fender with the GR badge. It meets up to an aluminum bulge hood with functional air vents and a forged carbon-fiber roof. The triple brushed stainless-steel exhaust tips and spoiler enhance the aggressive outward appearance. The practical cabin is simply laid out with, once

The dual front and side airbags, driver knee airbag, side curtain airbag, vehicle stability and traction control, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, three-point seatbelts for all, front/rear limited slip differentials, keyless entry, blind-spot monitor, front/rear crumble zones, rearview camera, daytime running lights and tire pressure monitoring system are standard. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes a precollision system to detect pedestrians, lane trace alert with steer assist and dynamic cruise control.

The sporty Corolla GR hatchback is incredibly nimble with a perky engine, which provides abundant punch to maneuver in rush-hour trafc. If you are one of those enthusiast drivers who likes to put the pedal to the metal, you will take to this pocket rocket in a flash. Like we did!

DO YOU OWN A CORPORATION OR LLC?

UNDERSTANDING THE NEW FEDERAL LAW: REPORTING BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP FOR COMPANIES

By Laurie E. Ohall, Florida Board-certifed Elder Law Attorney

Do you know who really owns a company? It is not always as clear as you might think, and now there is a new federal law which will change that. The new law is known as the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), and it went into efect on January 1. The CTA was enacted to combat financial crimes and promote transparency in corporate structures. Under this act, certain reporting obligations have been imposed on corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs), including those formed prior to its enactment.

the initial report within 90 calendar days of receiving notice of their creation or registration. Companies created on or after January 1, 2025, must file the initial report within 30 calendar days of receiving notice of their creation or registration. Failure to do so will result in penalties and enforcement actions.

Additionally, companies must file updated reports after the initial report if any information about the company or beneficial owner changes.

TURNING EYESORES INTO WORKS OF ART IN DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY

By Kathy L. Collins

If you are a beneficial owner of a corporation or LLC, you may very likely have a duty to report your personal information to the federal government. There are several key points you need to consider.

Reporting Requirement: The CTA requires certain corporations and LLCs to report specific information about their beneficial owners to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Beneficial owners are individuals who directly or indirectly own or control 25 percent or more of the ownership interests in the entity, as well as anyone who manages the company. When we talk about beneficial ownership, we’re talking about the real people who ultimately own or control a company, even if their names aren’t on ofcial documents. Sometimes, companies can be owned by other companies or by individuals who prefer to stay hidden behind layers of ownership. The purpose of the reporting is to help prevent things like money laundering, terrorism financing and other illegal activities that can hide behind shell companies.

Exemptions from Reporting: Certain entities are exempted and do not have to report. These include banks, credit unions, SEC-reporting companies, insurance companies and public accounting firms. Inactive entities are also exempt.

Deadline for Reporting: If your corporation/LLC was formed before January 1, 2024, you must comply with the reporting requirements under the CTA by January 1, 2025. Companies established between January 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025, must file

Information to Report: The information to be reported to FinCEN includes the full legal name, the date of birth, the residential or business address and a unique identifying number (such as a driver’s license or passport number) for each beneficial owner. Additionally, you will need to provide a statement disclosing the nature and extent of the beneficial ownership interests held by each individual.

Authorized Representative: You may designate an individual or entity, such as your registered agent or attorney, to submit the required information on your behalf. However, ultimate responsibility for compliance rests with the corporation/LLC and its owners.

Penalties for Noncompliance: Failure to comply with the reporting requirements of the Corporate Transparency Act may result in significant civil and criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The act mandates a $500-per-day fine for individuals who do not comply with the act by the designated deadline.

Some people might worry about privacy or security when it comes to sharing this information. But the law includes measures to protect sensitive information and only allows authorized government agencies to access it for specific purposes. For more information, please visit https:// fincen.gov/.

Laurie Ohall is a Florida board-certifed elder law attorney practicing in Brandon, Florida. She has been practicing law for 30 years and her practice is focused on estate planning, elder law planning and probate. Ohall is licensed to practice law in Florida and Ohio.

Historic Plant City Main Street Inc. and MAKE Plant City teamed up for a public art project known as Trash Can-Vas. The project is intended to enhance access to the arts by working with local artists to create and paint designs that celebrate Florida nature on downtown dumpsters. The newest one, created by Victoria Creel, was unveiled on May 23. The Trash Can-Vas is located in the parking lot behind Krazy Kup, located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. on the corner of Collins Street and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Creel, a resident of Valrico, is also a photographer with Victoria Michelle Photography. The theme for this year’s project was ‘Florida Nature.’

put art in an unexpected area.”

Jay Hollenkamp expanded by adding, “We wanted to turn an eyesore into a positive.”

MAKE Plant City monitored the status of the dumpster created in 2023 to see how it withheld use and the elements. It remains a beautiful piece.

Creel’s piece is festooned with all sorts of flora and fauna that are indigenous to the area, even otters.

Creel said, “I grew up in Plant City and camped and did a lot of nature stuf. I though about all the things I saw and what I wanted to seek, like otters.”

Creel added, “Our current world is very busy. I wanted to create a sense of calm and serenity. If my art is something that someone can look at and feel peaceful and reflect on their childhood memories, I am pleased.”

Erin Hollenkamp spearheaded the project with the first dumpster in 2023.

Erin said, “I was trying to incorporate art into the downtown area. I wanted to

The Trash Can-Vas project is funded by a Community Arts Impact Grant from the Arts Council of Hillsborough Couty (funding specifically comes from the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners). Martine Collier, division director for the arts council, said, “The arts council launched the Community Arts Impact Grant in 2018 to try and reach deeper into the community and support grassroots arts initiatives. This Plant City project is a perfect match for this funding and evidence that impact of this grant reaches broadly across the entire county.”

For more information on the events and projects of Historic Plant City Main Street and the Arts Council of Hillsborough County, please visit www.plantcitymainstreet.org and http://hillsborougharts.org/. You can follow MAKE Plant City on Facebook and Instagram.

(never known to fail)

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

O Most beautiful fowers of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succeed me in my necessity (make request). Tere are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. T.O.C.M.B.

Historic Plant City Main Street and MAKE Plant City teamed up with local artist Victoria Creel to take a utilitarian piece of equipment that is functional, but an eyesore, and turn it into a whimsical public art piece.

ROTARY CLUB OF BRANDON GIVES BACK WITH NINE CHARITY CHECKS

By Linda Chion

Nine charities received checks from the Rotary Club of Brandon thanks to money raised during the club’s two signature fundraisers, its historic Wild Game Night in February and its golf tournament a month earlier.

At the club’s June meeting, checks amounting to $111,538 were distributed to High 5 Inc. ($21,129), the Emergency Care Help Organization ($17,287) and Rotary’s Camp Florida ($14,406). Both Hope for Her and the Outreach Clinic received $13,445. Receiving $5,000 checks were the Angel Foundation FL and the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Rotarians set aside $5,500 for the Guatemala Aid Fund and $16,326 for the Brandon Rotary Club Charity Scholarship Fund. Eight graduating high school seniors were to receive scholarship checks at the club’s June 18 meeting.

According to ofcials, since its founding in 1961 the club has donated more than $3 million to area charities.

“That’s the impact we’re having on the community, to be able to give back not just $1,000 but sometimes as much as $20,000 to an organization,” said club President Patrick W. Skidmore II. Giving back a sizeable sum “can really change an

organization, and to me that’s the key, to be able to make an impact right here in Brandon.”

Giving out checks “is the highlight of the year,” said past President Todd Owen, who noted that last year, with three fundraisers, the club wrote charity checks amounting to roughly $135,000.

“We’re a club that’s giving, and we keep giving, and that’s why we have our fundraisers,” President-elect Tim Ryan said. He added that Rotarians participate in four of five service projects annually, including Backpack Heroes and bringing lunch to the teachers at Kingswood Elementary School, which sits across the street from the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center.

Club members in 2017, after meeting for nearly six decades in various locations, opened a space of their own after raising $290,000 to purchase and convert the unoccupied home into a clubhouse at 3007 S. Kings Ave. Cash and in-kind donations included construction services, materials and labor at minimal or no cost, as well as $50,000 each from Roger and Kimberly Rivard and from the Simmons Family Foundation, on behalf of Rotarian George Simmons, who died in 2018.

For more information, visit www.brandonrotary.org or call 813-767-5803.

SAVE LIVES AND DONATE: ONEBLOOD’S MISSION TO SUCCESS

OneBlood is an organization many of us are used to seeing around our communities. Whether the Big Red Bus is spotted in a local parking lot or on the move transporting lifesaving blood, its mission remains present no matter what.

The organization prides itself on being a nonprofit resource for blood, plasma and platelet donations and an outlet for stem cell research. It strives to help as many people as possible with lifesaving treatments.

Founded in January 2012, the group seeks to provide healthy blood for the entire state of Florida. Because blood cannot be made artificially without the human body and has a very low shelf life, the time between receiving the donor’s blood and it being sent/tested for a donor is extremely precious. The group’s classic Big Red Bus is a telltale sign of this important transaction occurring.

Not only does OneBlood believe in the importance of donating blood for others, but its mission also aligns with many of the hospitals that it partners with. Using the blood collected, it sends the blood to over 300 local hospitals across Florida, Alabama and the Carolinas to be stored and used for patients who may have cancer, need a blood transfusion, are undergoing an organ transplant, etc.

By Alisa Gershman

All the nonprofit’s wonderful qualities begin not with its mission but with the donors themselves. The people who take the time out of their day to go and donate their blood, knowing it may help someone else, are what keep the hope alive.

One volunteer, John-Micheal Elms, is a local from the FishHawk area who helps set up these accessible drives.

“I host a drive about every eight weeks. … We routinely collect more than 20 units at every drive,” said Elms. This dedication helps to provide OneBlood with healthy blood to collect and send of to those in need.

But blood is not the only thing that OneBlood strives to receive. Platelets and plasma are just as important and often misunderstood in their necessity. Donors who choose to give platelets are helping others whose blood cannot clot properly and therefore results in excess bleeding and partial healing of wounds. Plasma also has an important role as it transports water and nutrients through your blood to the rest of your body. These important factors of blood are vital to life, and with OneBlood’s existence, they make an existential impact on the people who need it.

For more information or to find a blood bank location, visit www.oneblood.org.

Rotarians and charity representatives with their charity checks received at the Rotary Club of Brandon’s June 11 meeting at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center on Kings Avenue in Brandon.

Donating blood, plasma and platelets through OneBlood saves lives every day.

SCHOOL REPAIRS FUNDED WITH HALF-PENNY SALES TAX HEAT UP

Construction projects ongoing at Brandon High School took center stage at a press conference this month that addressed the approximately $101.8 million in repairs underway at more than 100 schools this summer.

That includes $84.9 million in air-conditioning repairs and replacements at 14 schools, including Brandon and East Bay highs; Burns, Jennings and Shields middle; and FishHawk Creek, Nelson, Sessums, Bryan, Heritage, Mendenhall, Roosevelt, Seminole and Shaw elementary schools.

The remaining $16.9 million is earmarked for maintenance projects and repairs that involve such things as playgrounds, track repairs, kitchen and cafeteria improvements, painting, window replacements and elevator modernizations.

“Thank goodness in 2018 our taxpayers had faith in us to give us that half-penny sales tax,” said Chris Farkas, deputy superintendent of operations. “We’re on 100 campuses this summer working our tails of. The kids are coming back to school on August 12, so we need to make sure that we’re ready for the teachers on August 2.”

The work is part of a much broader undertaking, funded by the half-penny sales tax referendum approved by voters in November 2018 for a 10-year period. To date, 754 projects have been completed and 214 are in progress, with nearly $295 million awarded to local businesses, according to school ofcials. They further noted that, as of April 14, the school district had invested $742.4 million of the $834.6 million received in referendum funds.

By Linda Chion

Addressing reporters and answering questions at the June 5 press conference were Farkas; Jeremy Klein, Brandon High School principal; and Jose Valiente, a member of the Citizen Oversight Committee that meets monthly to oversee the spending and completion of school improvement projects.

“Today, you’re seeing our summer HVAC air-conditioning project at Brandon High, which is one of our largest, accounting for more than $12 million worth of work,” Farkas said. “This is symbolic of the work that’s being done all around our district thanks to the half-penny sales tax.”

Enhancements overall have been heralded as necessary to provide students and staf with improved learning environments now and into the future. The referendum approved in 2018 reportedly raises $121$131 million per year.

“This half a penny is very powerful,” Valiente said. “The role of the oversight committee is to make sure we follow the money. And one thing that we wanted from the very beginning is to create a separate bank account for all this money, so we can [account for] the first dollar that came in to the last dollar that’s been spent.”

“The more that the kids are here, the better we can teach them. The more we can teach them, the more kids walk the stage [at graduation].” This year’s graduation rate improved at Brandon to “92-plus percent.”

For more information, please visit the school district’s half-penny sales tax referendum page at www.hillsboroughschools. org/page/6627.”

2024 UNION HOME MORTGAGE

GASPARILLA

BOWL SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER 20 AT RAYMOND JAMES STADIUM

The Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl is set to take place at Raymond James Stadium on Friday, December 20, at 3:30 p.m. Owned and operated by ESPN Events, the game will be broadcast live on ESPN and will feature two teams selected from a diverse pool, including the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and American Athletic Conference (AAC).

Te Gasparilla Bowl recently announced that Union Home Mortgage will be returning as the title sponsor for two more years. Te Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl is set to be played on Friday, December 20, this year.

Along with announcing the game date, the Gasparilla Bowl is proud to announce that it has extended its partnership with Union Home Mortgage as the title sponsor for another two years, making Union Home Mortgage the longest-tenured title sponsor in the bowl’s history. Union Home Mortgage strives to create a culture that demonstrates mutual respect for everyone along with a deep desire to be world-class, underscoring the bowl’s commitment to excellence, community engagement and support for collegiate athletics.

“We are thrilled to announce the new date for the 2024 Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl and to renew our partnership with Union Home Mortgage,” said Scott Glaser, executive director of the Gasparilla Bowl. “This collaboration enhances our ability to deliver a premier college football experience at Raymond James Stadium. We look forward to welcoming fans and teams for another exciting and memorable game in December.”

Union Home Mortgage, a nationally rec-

ognized mortgage banking company, has been a dedicated supporter of the Gasparilla Bowl. Their ongoing partnership plays a crucial role in enhancing the event’s outreach and impact.

“Union Home Mortgage is excited to announce the renewal of our partnership with ESPN and the Gasparilla Bowl,” stated Bill Cosgrove, CEO of Union Home Mortgage. “Our organization is committed to Tampa and all of Florida, and we are honored to partner with ESPN in this great state. Union Home Mortgage’s 1,800 partners nationwide are dedicated to building homeownership opportunities for everyone. We look forward to bringing the 2024 Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl to Tampa residents and football fans across the country.”

Georgia Tech’s 30-17 victory against the University of Central Florida last year drew a strong audience, averaging a 1.3 percent rating with more than 2.35 million people tuning in to the prime-time matchup on ESPN. The game was the top sports program during its telecast window. With the game occurring just before Christmas, local businesses and fan groups have a unique opportunity to host holiday parties or family gatherings, including pregame tailgates and stadium seating options.

Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl ticket information will be announced later this fall. Additional game information is available at www.gasparillabowl.com.

ROTARIANS CELEBRATE YOUTH SERVICE WITH SCHOLARSHIPS AND ROTARACT SUPPORT

Rotarians at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center in Brandon issued college scholarships and a check to the University of South Florida (USF) Rotaract club.

“It’s wonderful to see the youth we have coming up in this town,” said Joe Campoamor of Lithia, president of the Rotary Club of Brandon’s charity committee, at the club’s June 18 meeting. “We had 19 scholarship applicants, and it’s amazing to see the great service-oriented things the kids are doing.”

USF Rotaract President Suhas ‘Sue’ Das accepted on behalf of his Rotary International service club a check for $1,200, noting the club’s 400 events and 8,900 service hours.

“Trust me, this may not seem like a lot to you guys, but this is almost half our budget,” Das said.

Collectively, Rotary’s eight scholarship recipients reported 2,005 community service hours. It reported as well on its scholarship applications’ weighted grade-point averages (WGPA).

Of to Florida Gulf Coast University is Brooke Ura, a Sefner Christian Academy graduate (4.1 WGPA, 157 hours). Ura is the first recipient of the $2,500 Sharon S. Sell-

By Linda Chion

ers Memorial Scholarship, given in remembrance of the wife of John Sellers, a longtime Rotarian.

Five students each received $2,000 scholarships, including Olivia Davis from Newsome High School in Lithia, with 606 service hours. Davis updated her WGPA at the meeting, from 5.8 to 6.29. She is set to attend the University of Central Florida. Also from Newsome, headed to Florida Southern College, Jocelyn Maidens (5.5 WGPA, 103 service hours) received a $1,000 scholarship.

Three students from Durant High School in Plant City each received a $2,000 scholarship. They are Ryleigh Butz (6.2 WGPA, 336 hours, Auburn University), Anai Hernandez (5.1 WGPA, 107 hours, Florida Polytechnic University) and Andrew Walls (6.7 WGPA, 175 hours, University of Florida).

Zakiyah Adams, a graduate of Spoto High School in Riverview who is of to Florida A&M University, received $1,000 and reported 160 service hours (Adams updated her WGPA at the meeting from 6.9 to 7.3). Of to Howard University, Tampa Bay Tech graduate Divonna Smith received $2,000 and reported a 6.5 WGPA and 361 service hours.

“Seeing the faces of these recipients, all we can say is, stay involved,” said Rotarian Tim Ryan, the Rotary Club of Brandon’s incoming president. “We’re all in this room for one reason: friendship. Giving back to the community, this is why we do what we do.”

The club meets on Tuesdays. For information, visit www.brandonrotary.org or call Larry Fassett at 813-767-5803.

FREE FUN INDOOR ACTIVITIES THIS SUMMER AT THE MOVIE THEATER AND BOWLING ALLEY

Florida summers are hot and humid. In the deepest part of the summer months, the sun and the heat can be unbearable. What can a family do on a budget to beat the heat, and have fun together? There are a few free options available in the Brandon/Riverview area.

There are free summer movies available at Xscape Theatres Riverview 14. Free summer movies for kids have been o f ered since June at Xscape. There is free admission to specific summer movies on Tuesdays and Thursdays every week in July.

Xscape Theatres Riverview 14 is playing How to Train Your Dragon on July 2 and 4, Shrek 2 on July 9 and 11, Abominable on July 16 and 18 and Migration on July 23 and 25. Doors open at 9 a.m. and all shows begin at 9:30 a.m. Seating is typically limited, as many want to attend a movie for free, so it is advisable to arrive there early to get a seat. Concessions are open throughout the movie and are not included in the free movie admission.

Xscape Theatres Riverview 14 is located at 6135 Valleydale Dr. in Riverview o f U.S. 301 and can be reached at 813-

By Ashley Abene

393-1818. For more information on Xscape free summer movies, or to see the schedule of upcoming movies, visit its website at www. xscapetheatres.com/ kids-summer-movies. There is also free bowling for kids during the summer. Kids Bowl Free ofers children ages 2-15 years old two free bowling games every day at participating locations across the United States. In order to take part in the Kids Bowl Free program, parents must register each eligible child. Coupons, which are sent weekly via emails or texts, will need to be shown upon arrival at the bowling center. Shoe rental is not included.

If parents wish to participate in bowling as well, there is a family pass that can be purchased at a reduced rate. To sign up for Kids Bowl Free, visit its website at www. kidsbowlfree.com.

One of the local lanes that participates in conjunction with Kids Bowl Free is Brandon Crossroads Bowl. It is open for the Kids Bowl Free program from Monday through Friday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Brandon Crossroads Bowl is located at 609 Crater Lane in Tampa of U.S. 301 and can be reached at 813-621-2363.

Rotarian Patrick W. Skidmore II (left) and Joe Campoamor (back) with scholarship recipients (from left to right) Brooke Ura, Ryleigh Butz, Olivia Davis, Andrew Walls, Divonna Smith, Zakiyah Adams and Anai Hernandez. Not pictured is scholarship recipient Jocelyn Maidens.

HEALTHY AND VEGAN 3BAR FOODS WILL SOON BE AVAILABLE AT BRANDON VINE VEGAN

The mission of 3BAR is to create vegan snacks that are plant-based, soy-free, wheat-free, gluten-free, GMO-free, organic ingredients, cholesterol free and 100 percent natural for athletes, busy families and everyone who cares about their health. 3BAR’s obsession is flavor.

3BAR products are inspired by CEO Erin DeMarines’ grandmother’s homemade cookies. At the inception of 3BAR, DeMarines was determined to put the delicious flavor of her childhood in a nutritionally balanced and vegan energy bar. As a sponsored triathlete, she knew she needed more than just flavor when fueling for her competitions. This quest for the perfect bar began in her kitchen and is now a line of products sold in more than 20 locations from Tampa to St. Petersburg. One of those locations is Vine Vegan in Brandon.

“I just hired a new manufacturer so at the end of this June my products will be in Vine Vegan,” DeMarines said. “Currently, our products can be found in Pure Kitchen, Grass Roots, Cava, Bella Prana Yoga and about 20 other locations in the Tampa Bay area.”

DeMarines is a plant-based nutritional coach, personal trainer, vegan hospitality consultant and, of course, the creator of vegan food products.

“It was originally the three-bar ener-

By Libby Hopkins

gy bar, but now it’s turned into bites, as you will see on the website, and I created it from my grandmother’s cookie recipe,” DeMarines said. “I started back in 1997.”

DeMarines started running at age 4, and fitness remains a huge part of her life. Her dad, who is still running in his 70s, took her on her first run as a young girl and continues to motivate her.

“I follow in his footsteps with my own family,” DeMarines said.

“I enjoy running, working out and even surfing with my husband and daughter.”

In addition to the plant-based nutrition bars, DeMarines now o f ers ‘Plant Powered Pop,’ her new popcorn product.

“We carefully crafted the ‘bacun’ spice recipe from organic seasonings to create a flavorful and smoky taste,” DeMarines said. “We wanted to take our popcorn snack one step further, so we added adaptogens. Adaptogens help your body deal with stress, manage anxiety and balance emotions. Plant Powered Pop is plant-based, vegan, gluten-free, full of adaptogens and has six grams of protein per two-serving bag.”

DeMarines also o f ers 3BAR bites in the delicious flavors of coco crunch and tropical tri. To learn more about 3BAR, visit https://efitfoods.com. DeMarines’ products will be available at Vine Vegan, located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon.

CENTER PLACE PARTNERS

WITH CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN TO OFFER A FREE ART CLASS FOR PARENTS

Champions for Children’s (CFC) mission is to build stronger families with thriving children throughout the Tampa Bay area through child abuse prevention and family education programs.

CFC has served the Tampa Bay area since 1977 and envisions a world free from child abuse and neglect. The work follows a proactive, prevention-first model that is committed to building strong families as support for thriving children.

Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is excited to partner with Champions for Children to ofer a free art class for parents. Te class is called Mandala Poetry, and it will be ofered on Monday, July 8, from 6-7:30 p.m. Free child care will be provided during the class.

Recently, CFC became the host of a new program with the PeaceLove Foundation. This program ofers free art classes to parents and provides child care for the parents while they are taking the classes. The ‘Make Stuf, Feel Better’ class will be held at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association on Monday, July 8, from 6-7:30 p.m.

“Mandala Poetry is an open-ended art activity that allows you to find your center and explore what is meaningful to you, then use the words that your art evokes in yourself and others to express yourself through a poem,” said Sarah Graves, teacher of the class. “I am grateful to my employer, Champions for Children, for hosting PeaceLove workshops and giving me the time and space to share them with Tampa Bay-area communities.”

PeaceLove is based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. It was initially started by a man

By Libby Hopkins

who was struggling with his own mental health and realized what an incredible vehicle art was for his recovery. Since then, PeaceLove has trained hundreds of front-line professionals to ofer workshops within the U.S. and internationally.

“I am a trained CREATOR within the PeaceLove Foundation,” Graves said. “That means that I am certified to ofer art workshops focused on creating connections and promoting mental health and well-being. I was initially drawn to PeaceLove due to my experience having a child with a long-term illness and seeing firsthand how incredibly important self-care and community are to families.” Graves is certified to ofer four workshops: Story Shoes, Mandala Poetry, Dual Emotions and Transformation Collage.

“Story Shoes ofers participants an opportunity to decorate a shoe and share their own unique journey with others in the community. It answers the question, ‘What would you know about me if you walked in my shoes?’ It also ofers a great chance to reflect on our stories and hear how stories of others in our community may intersect with ours,” Graves said.

To register for the Mandala Poetry class at Center Place, call 813-563-5630. Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, inside the Brandon Regional Library.

Erin DeMarines is a plant-based nutritional coach, personal trainer, vegan hospitality consultant and the creator of vegan food products called 3BAR.

FREE BEER IS BACK WITH MORE THRILLS AND EXCITEMENT AT BUSCH GARDENS THIS SUMMER

Visitors to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay this summer are in for a refreshing treat with the return of free beer. For a limited time, the Tampa theme park will offer one complimentary beer per day to all guests ages 21 and up and two complimentary beers per day to pass members ages 21 and up. Guests will be able to enjoy the free icecold beer daily at Orang Café located in the Jungala area of the park, with a variety of rotating options to choose from. From classic domestic brews to artisanal craft beers, guests can enjoy a refreshing drink while experiencing the thrill of award-winning roller coasters, up-close encounters with animals and all the new things happening this summer.

Experience a fiery blaze of immersive, family-friendly excitement as you soar above the Serengeti Plain and drop into fun-filled twists and turns on the new Phoenix Rising coming this summer. Inspired by legends, this suspended roller coaster in vibrant Pantopia is packed with surprises and speeds up to 44 miles per hour. But with a height requirement of just 42 inches, it’s the perfect adventure for families to embark on together.

Guests will also have the opportunity to experience the all-new Rhythm of Nature ice show at the Moroccan Palace Theater.

Staf Report

Audiences will embark on a spellbinding ice adventure following the journey of Dakari, a brave young hero, as they journey into a magical dream realm to uncover the wonders of the animal kingdom and embrace their destiny.

Guests can extend their day into a funfilled night with special seasonal entertainment at Busch Gardens’ Summer Nights. Gwazi Plaza comes alive with nightly performances of the all-new Gwazi Rocks, featuring vibrant dance and percussion beats. At the Stanleyville Theater, guests can enjoy the acrobatic feats of Cirque Electric. Plus, guests can sing along to tunes from their favorite artists during a performance of Icons at the Dragon Fire Grill.

For the perfect ending, enjoy a dazzling firework show every Friday, Saturday and Sunday as the Summer Nights Fireworks Spectacular, presented by Bad Boy Mowers, illuminates the skies over Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Visit https://buschgardenstampa.com/ to purchase tickets and learn more about the annual pass program, and stay in the know about new events, special deals and future announcements by following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube and X (formerly Twitter).

Firefighters are one of the busiest first responders, answering more than 140,000 calls every year in Hillsborough County alone. Like most jobs, however, there is always a brief period of down time. Firefighters at Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) Station No. 7 were having one of these periods of down time when they received a call that was diferent from what they usually receive.

By Solomon Bristow

Peggy Lawson had been driving down Bloomingdale Avenue and turning into a parking lot when she noticed multiple people surrounding something. After she got closer, she saw that a group of ducklings had fallen through the gaps of a storm drain outside of the Shrimp Boat, located on Bloomindale Avenue, and became trapped. Mike Parot, the person who discovered the ducklings, suggested that HCFR Station No. 7 might be able to help the ducklings get back to their mama. Lawson drove down to the station and walked in.

“Hi, I am a home health nurse. I have dialed 911 to save the lives of several humans, so you guys owe me a favor. I need you to

save the lives of 10 baby ducklings and a very frantic mama,” Lawson had said.

After receiving permission from the fire chief, the firefighters suited up and went to the ducklings. They removed the heavy grate and entered the drain, saving the ducklings one by one. After the first duckling was pulled out of the drain by the firefighters, the nine remaining ducklings were frightened and wandered further into the pipes at the bottom of the drain. The firefighters used a hose to gently wash the ducklings back to them, then continued to retrieve the ducklings. Soon after, the firefighters pulled all the ducklings out of the storm drain and returned them to the mama duck. All the ducks were taken to a pond behind Station No. 7 and released, safe from all storm drains in the area.

Even though firefighters are primarily known for their courage that is required for their primary duties, it is important to note that they contribute much more to communities than just that.

Guests ages 21 and older can enjoy a refreshing, cold, 7 oz. beer for free at Busch Gardens for a limited time this summer.

HCFR Station No. 7 is located at 1310 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico.

Peggy Lawson with the frefghters who came to the rescue of 10 baby ducklings.

Jennifer Greene & Clint Fletcher Owners of Complete Ketamine Tampa

Before Chris Ciulla selected his location for Voodoo Brewing Co. Valrico on State Road 60 in Kings Mill, he knew community involvement would be something he wanted to embrace.

Looking to foster this relationship, Ciulla approached local high schools, asking if they were interested in participating in an art contest where the created artworks would be displayed at Voodoo Valrico for the entire year. The idea was to present each student a blank door as their canvas, with the assignment being to express their visions of opportunities beyond the door through their artwork along with a written narrative of what the artwork meant to them.

By Brian Bokor

ST. JOSEPH’S CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-SOUTH HOST CHRISTMAS IN JULY TOY DRIVE

Durant High School art teacher Jaclyn Bowers immediately thought this would be a great idea, but only for students willing to put forth the time, energy and efort needed to complete the two-month project.

“The contest gave students a chance to express their dreams through painting and allowed them to explore and reflect what opportunities lay ahead,” said Bowers. “It showcased the talent of our students in the most heartfelt way possible. When the students presented their artwork and told their stories, it brought tears to my eyes. I couldn’t be prouder of what they have accomplished.”

Principal Gary Graham added he was “blown away with the talent,” reiterating that those chosen “had to be the right student with the right work ethic to complete the task.”

Out of the 210 students enrolled in Durant’s art program, below is the list of the 10 highly dedicated students across all four grades selected to participate, along with the titles of their artworks:

• Emerald Gottfredsen — “Opportunities — a self-portrait.”

• Raley Wilson — “Justice 2024.”

• Livia Mendonca — “Ocean.”

• Isabella Davila — “Dwell on Possibility.”

• Quiarra Cooper — “To the Crib.”

• Asia Gil — “Paint Your Future.”

• Madison Willoughby — “Dreams in Motion.”

• Aiden Clark — “Work to Riches.”

•Alyssas Knecht — “Cosmetology School.”

• Jackson Smith — “Remember When.”

“Voodoo Brewing is our pride and joy, and we can’t contain our excitement to be part of the Valrico community,” said Ci-

ulla, franchise owner/operator of Voodoo Valrico, better known by locals as the large red building under construction on the north side of State Road 60 between Mulrennan and Dover roads. “Valrico means ‘valley of god’ or ‘rich valley,’ and after visiting over 75 properties, I stood on this one in Kings Mill and knew immediately this is where our pub belongs.”

“Our doors symbolize opportunity, inviting you to step into a brighter future,” Ciulla added. “Partnering with Durant High School and Mrs. Bowers to engage and empower students to express their visions through art on these doors creates a meaningful connection between our restaurant and the local community. We are incredibly grateful for the chance to collaborate with such talented young artists.”

Each one of the doors, along with the stories behind them, will be on display at Voodoo Valrico for an entire year and available to purchase at the one-year anniversary celebration, with all proceeds going back to the Durant art department.

The contest will be repeated again next year with a new group of talented young Durant High artists displaying their skills and keeping the collaboration going between community and business.

Prizes awarded include $1,500 for first place, $500 for second place and a gift certificate for dinner-for-four given to the third-place winner. The three winning contestants will be announced at Voodoo Valrico’s grand opening celebration, which both Ciulla and his general manager, Mandi Hand, anticipate happening before the end of this summer.

For a preview of all doors entered into the contest along with information on the opening date, please follow Voodoo Brewing Co. Valrico Facebook page at www.facebook.com/voodoovalrico.

Voodoo Brewing Co. Valrico is located at 3434 SR 60 in Valrico. More on Voodoo Brewing can be found on its website at www.voodoobrewery.com. Ciulla is also the founder of WeCulture Brands as well as the author of the book by the same name.

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Tampa is hosting its 16th annual Christmas in July toy drive for hospitalized children. Riverview’s St. Joseph’s Hospital-South is also partaking in the event for the second year, titling it ‘Christmas in July at the South Pole.’

By Jamie Lu

The program is organized by the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation and supports the bedside activities and complementary therapies provided to pediatric patients by the hospitals’ Child Life Departments. While undergoing treatment, pediatric patients often endure stressful and unfamiliar experiences, all while away from the comfort of their own homes. The toys and gifts donated during the Christmas in July event help to alleviate the children’s fear and provide comfort and joy to them during their stay.

“Toys that are donated go to a variety of di f erent things. It can be for a celebration, like a birthday or a holiday. They can also provide a distraction for the patient while they are going through a procedure,” said Sarah Jenkinson of the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation. “A toy can help ease the stress and scariness of the ER. It allows the patient to focus on something other than the trauma they are experiencing.”

There are a number of ways the com-

munity can get involved, but one of the easiest ways is to start a personal fundraiser page, which can be done by visiting www. stjosephschristmas. org. Community members can then share this fundraiser on their social media pages and even challenge their friends and colleagues. Other ways to become involved include donating online, starting a toy drive, encouraging local partners to support or becoming a sponsor.

Community members are also welcome to bring gifts in person to fi ll Santa’s sleigh at the Grand Finale event on Friday, July 26. Santa will be collecting donations at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Tampa from 7 a.m.-12 Noon and at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South from 9-11 a.m. Toys should be new and unwrapped. Sensory toys as well as infant toys and rattles are especially appreciated. The www.stjosephschristmas.org website provides a list of other items needed. Without a doubt, Christmas in July brings the hope and joy associated with its namesake holiday to the children who need it the most. The event “is something that our sta f and our patients get to look forward to,” said Jenkinson.

St. Joseph’s Hospital-South is located at 6901 Simmons Loop in Riverview.

Te Durant High School art class’ participating contestants with art teacher Jaclyn Bowers (right).

Durant High School art teacher Jaclyn Bowers with Chris Ciulla of Voodoo Brewing Co.

Emerald Gottfredsen with her door, titled “Opportunities — a self-portrait.”

Team members and Santa Claus at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South’s 2023 Christmas in July toy drive event for hospitalized children.

Scan here for your property report

BRANDON MASONS CELEBRATE 100-YEAR REDEDICATION OF MOON AVENUE LODGE

Masons turned out in force to rededicate Brandon Masonic Lodge No. 114, which this year celebrates its 100year anniversary at its Moon Avenue location.

“On Thursday, June 13, 1924, we settled here, and since then we have been forging a legacy that has lasted a century,” said Cory Jones, the lodge’s worshipful master, in remarks for the June 13 reconsecration and rededication ceremony. “Brandon had three main roads in 1924, and Moon Avenue was at the center of those three roads.”

Roughly 150 Masons in attendance at Brandon Masonic Lodge No. 114 at the unveiling of the 100-year rededication foor marker, noting the lodge’s establishment in 1890.

By Linda Chion

mentary School, the Iris and Hubert Allen Scholarship Fund for graduating high school seniors, donations to the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO), donations to OneBlood and providing Meals on Wheels to seniors.

He noted as well the lodge’s connection to John William Brandon, who in 1857 brought his wife and seven sons by covered wagon from Mississippi to Fort Brooke, now known as Tampa. He settled them in what is now Sefner, and months later bought land in neighboring New Hope.

VALRICO MASON IN TOP STATE POSITION JOINS BRANDON LODGE MEMBERS IN 100-YEAR CELEBRATION

As the top Mason in the state of Florida, Donald ‘Don’ Cowart of Valrico travels a lot, but it was his backyard visit in June that held a special meaning for the 1969 Brandon High School graduate, who in 2006 joined Brandon Masonic Lodge No. 114.

Today, at the corner of Moon Avenue and Morgan Street, a marker notes the lodge was established on January 20, 1890. Originally known as Hacienda Lodge No. 114, the Freemasons met in rooms over Pemberton’s Store in Sefner. Moves in 1897 and 1912, to Thonotosassa and back to Sefner, preceded the June 13, 1924, move to Moon Avenue, where the newly built lodge was dedicated on August 24, 1924. At the June 13 rededication, Masons unveiled the lodge’s 100year anniversary floor marker.

“Over the past 134 years, our local Masonic group has steadfastly served its members and the community,” lodge historian Steven Dolfi said at the June 13 ceremony. “Our journey has been marked by numerous relocations and name changes, but our commitment to service has remained unwavering.”

Dolfi noted the lodge’s philanthropic efforts, including its support of Mango Ele-

“As New Hope the town was being renamed Brandon, Brandon Lodge was also being initiated,” Dolfi said. “We can claim that our town of Brandon was founded on Masonic principles, as John Brandon himself was a Freemason.”

Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest fraternal organizations, dating back to ancient times. The Brandon club reportedly has 386 members, including the youngest member, Hunter Daniel Bernstein, 19, and its oldest, William Andrews Jr., 97, who with 71 years is the lodge’s longest-serving Mason. Among the 121 past lodge masters is Donald Cowart, of Valrico, who held the position in 2013. He attended the rededication as the Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Florida.

For more information, visit https://brandonlodge.org/.

That was 28 years after Cowart first became a Mason, having joined the Temple Terrace Lodge in 1978. On June 13, 100 years to the day the Brandon Lodge was first dedicated, Cowart, as the Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Florida, participated in the 100-year reconsecration and rededication ceremony, at 203 Moon Ave. in Brandon.

Donald ‘Don’ Cowart, Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Florida (center), with Right Worshipful Gary Jamasche (left) and Worshipful Master Cory Long. Te framed photo, shot by Jamasche, is of Cowart’s Grand Communication ceremony in May, with Brandon Lodge Masons in attendance.

“We’re celebrating Freemasonry, and this lodge that is near and dear to my heart,” Cowart said. “The way I explain it, this country was founded on Freemasonry principles, including charity, faith and hope.”

He noted that 14 United States presidents were Freemasons, including George Washington, who, according to the Museum of Freemasonry, joined the Alexandria, Virginia, lodge as a 20-year-old in 1782, and later laid the cornerstone of the Capitol Building in Washington in a Masonic ceremony.

Jeremy Bernstein of FishHawk, at the June 13 ceremony in Brandon, said he joined the Brandon Lodge after moving to

By Linda Chion

Florida from New York, and that his sons later joined him. Bernstein said he became a Mason “just to belong to something bigger than myself.”

“After being in Freemasonry long enough, it became about the brotherhood, and then it became about bettering myself,” Bernstein said. “Through allegory and symbols, we give men the tools they need to try to improve themselves.”

Cory Jones of Riverview is the Brandon Lodge’s Worshipful Master, a position that 120 Masons before him have held, including Cowart in 2013. Cowart is the state’s first Grand Master from Brandon, reportedly home to the state’s third-largest Masonic lodge, with 386 members. Jones said he became a Mason in 2011 after talking to his boss, a Mason, on and of for several years.

“I was seeking something for self-improvement, and I decided to take a shot at it,” Jones said. There is a misconception “that we’re some type of a secret society, but we are not,” Jones added. “We’re just a society with some secrets, no diferent than any person or business with secrets. Our main goal through our instruction and teaching is to give men the tools they need to make themselves better.”

For more information, visit www.brandonlodge.org or email secretary@brandonlodge.org.

HIGH 5 INC. OFFERS SWIM LESSONS AND WATER SAFETY LESSONS

High 5 Inc. is ofering swimming lessons for all ages throughout the summer through group and private lessons and is teaching water safety to families.

High 5 ofers adult swimming lessons, parent and child lessons and its Learn to Swim program for 3-to-17-year-olds. All lessons are half an hour long and have one instructor for every four swimmers.

Sharon Finotti, director of aquatics, said swimming lessons are the first line of defense against youth drowning.

“At High 5, our swimming lessons provide the necessary skills to children and adults so they can be safe while enjoying the water,” Finotti said. “Our highly trained instructors provide a fun, incremental learning environment, which allows for all swimmers to reach their swimming goals.”

Swimming lessons are ofered in the mornings and afternoons and on Saturdays throughout the summer. After completing the lessons, swimmers will be invited to join High 5’s Blue Wave swimming team.

In addition to ofering swimming lessons throughout the summer, High 5 received a Water Warriors grant from the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County.

Dog Training to Fit All Families

By Lily Belcher

Through the water safety program, parents and children receive free water safety information.

“The grant is used to teach water safety to both the parent and the child,” Finotti said. “Water safety begins with the parents.”

The Children’s Board awarded the over $96,000 grant to High 5 after seeing how the nonprofit recreation center teaches water safety to parents and children.

The water safety lessons teach parents about safety measures they can take to protect their children around bodies of water and CPR. Children can take eight in-water safety lessons to teach them how to float, breath control, water confidence and how to safely enter and exit a pool.

High 5 also teaches water safety in the evenings and on the weekends for parents who work during the day.

“Drowning is silent and swift,” Finotti said. “It can happen to anyone; however, it is something that can be prevented if protective layers are put in place.”

For more information on High 5 Inc. or to sign up for swimming lessons this summer, visit https://high5inc.org/ or call 813-689-0908.

10TH ANNUAL SHARKCON IS COMING TO THE FLORIDA STATE FAIRGROUNDS IN JULY

The 10th SharkCon will host celebrity guests, ocean conservationists and shark experts at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall in July to promote ocean and shark conservation.

SharkCon, an annual National Geographic SharkFest event, will bring in engaging speakers and fun activities for guests of all ages on Saturday and Sunday, July 13-14.

“We have five white shark specialists all coming to talk,” executive director Spencer Steward said. “So, this will be the year of the white shark as far as the talks go.”

This year’s SharkCon will also host the largest panel of Jaws franchise actors. Guests will have the opportunity to get autographs and attend a VIP meet and greet with actor Richard Dreyfuss. On July 13, SharkCon is hosting a screening of Jaws: The Revenge for guests who purchase an additional ticket.

Steward said he thought it would be interesting to have the actors come in and talk about their work, especially since SharkCon attendees see them on their TVs and Steward wanted to give them the opportunity to meet the stars in-person.

The speakers will also host small break-

By Lily Belcher

out sessions for guests to ask more in-depth questions.

Local aquariums, SeaWorld, Gatorland and over 20 ocean conservation groups will host exhibits. Over 100 vendors will provide shark-related merchandise, including jewelry, art and other collectibles.

“SharkCon is more than just a great time,” reads the press release. “It is an event dedicated to raising awareness about shark and ocean conservation, as well as sustainability. It raises money for ocean and shark conservation eforts, which are undertaken by our partners at SharkCon.”

Dozens of nonprofit organizations will also attend to ofer opportunities and advice on how guests can play an active role in saving the oceans.

Additionally, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting an indoor scuba diving activity with trained professionals.

“So, if you like shark shows on TV, then this is your place,” Steward said.

Tickets for the event are on sale online at https://sharkcon.com/. Adult tickets cost $24.95 and children tickets cost $4.95. Tickets will also be available at the door for a higher price.

For information or to volunteer at SharkCon, visit https://sharkcon.com/ or call 941-539-0833.

9708 Carr Road, Riverview 33569 • (just of Boyette Rd., 1 mile West of Bell Shoals Rd) (813)672-WOOF (9663) • www.CanineCabana.BIZ info@caninecabana.biz #CanineCabanaFlorida

Swimming lessons are one of the frst lines of defense against childhood drownings.

SharkCon will host a panel of movie stars and experts in the two-day event.

TWIN CREEKS ASSISTED LIVING WELCOMES COMMUNITY’S NEW MARKETING DIRECTOR

Twin Creeks Assisted Living Community and Memory Care recently gained a new marketing director, Jessica Galarza. Twin Creeks is located in Riverview of of Boyette Road. It boasts of a state-ofthe-art assisted living community, as well as a memory care unit that houses residents with memory-related illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Galarza joins Twin Creeks as the marketing director, coming in with 18 years of senior living experience. In her 18 years, she has a vast array of experience varying from working in the dining room during high school to becoming a CNA, med tech, activities director and memory care director at other facilities. Galarza truly enjoys working with the elderly, having grown to love this quality time after helping to take care of her grandmother when she was younger.

The assisted living area of Twin Creeks prides itself in ofering individual activities based on individual needs. Activities and oferings there can include senior group activities, such as gardening, musical and artistic programs, exercise programs and outings with family; onsite therapy; a structured lifestyle; safe equipment; and trained staf. It even has a restaurant-style dining space for

By Ashley Abene

residents. The Twin Creeks chef also cooks meals for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which shows what top-notch food there is available at this facility.

Galarza expressed of Twin Creeks environment: “When walking into our facility, it just feels like home, almost like the feeling we used to have when we walked into our cozy grandparent’s house. From the staf to the residents, we are one big happy family. We also have a resident who received the Purple Heart award, and it’s an honor to have him as a resident.”

There are a plethora of weekly events available for Twin Creeks residents, such as trips to local stores, table games, bingo, happy hour, musical shows, crafts, magic shows and more.

Currently, there is limited availability for incoming resident slots. In order to take advantage of current summer savings, Galarza stressed the importance of calling to get more information soon at 813-278-5800.

Twin Creeks Assisted Living Community and Memory Care is located at 13470 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. More information about this community can be found on its website at https://twincreeksretire.com/.

TAMPA BAY SUN FOOTBALL CLUB ANNOUNCES UNIFORM PARTNER

AND OFFICIAL HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

The Tampa Bay Sun Football Club, the new USL Super League Division I franchise, announced today its front-of-kit partnership and ofcial health care provider in advance of the inaugural season.

Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine at the University of South Florida have teamed up with the new club, and TGH will be the prominent front-of-kit partner and exclusive academic health system for the region’s first professional women’s soccer team.

Te Tampa Bay Sun Football Club recently revealed the frst-ever women’s pro sports jersey to carry the name “Tampa Bay” in partnership with Tampa General Hospital and the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine.

The TGH logo will take center stage on both the home and away kits for the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club, and Tampa General will serve as the ofcial presenting partner for the 2024-25 inaugural season.

“We’re excited to be part of Tampa Bay Sun’s historic first season,” said John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General Hospital. “It’s an ideal match of two world-class teams — Tampa General and the Tampa Bay Sun. Through community outreach, player events and media platforms, we’ll collaborate with the Tampa Bay Sun to promote health and wellness across West Central Florida. Working together, we’re putting Tampa Bay on the map as a premier destination for great sports and exceptional health care.”

USF Health will serve as the exclusive

health care provider for the team. USF Health physicians and clinical staf will provide care and treatments for the players, including athletic training, team physician services, mental health services, registered dietitian services, physical therapy and patient navigation.

“Our collaboration with the Tampa Bay Sun Football Club is a testament to our dedication to sports medicine and community health,” said Eric Coris, M.D., professor and chair of the Department of Family Medicine at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine and head team physician for USF Athletic Medicine.

The highly anticipated kits are now available for preorder at https://tampabaysunfc.com/shop. The first shipments will arrive in August, just in time for the team’s home opener against Dallas Trinity FC on Sunday, August 18, at the stunning Riverfront Stadium.

The inaugural kits draw inspiration from the Tampa Bay community and a love for the beautiful game. The ‘Away Yellow’ nods to the warm sun and the happy and optimistic community that makes Tampa Bay thrive. The ‘Home Navy’ represents the warm waters in Tampa Bay. Visit www.tampabaysunfc.com for more information.

Jessica Galarza, the newest marketing director for Twin Creeks Assisted Living Community and Memory Care.

RECLAIMED WATER MIGHT BE AN OPTION FOR MORE HOMES AND BUSINESSES

As the population of Hillsborough County continues to grow, meeting the water needs of residents and businesses becomes an ongoing challenge which is being met through a variety of methods, such as mandated restrictions and other conservation methods, including the use of reclaimed water.

Reclaimed water is water that has been used in a household or industrial setting and is treated to a degree that it can be safely used for things like irrigation of lawns. Reusing water helps reduce the strain on the area’s primary sources of drinking water, the Hillsborough River and the Floridan aquifer, and costs less than potable water for customers.

The use of reclaimed water is governed by federal, state and local laws and regulations. Irrigating lawns and landscaped areas, such as golf courses, are typical uses of reclaimed water. Among the things to keep in mind when using reclaimed water from Hillsborough County for home gardens or other agricultural purposes is that it can be used for the direct irrigation of edible crops only if the produce will be peeled, skinned or cooked before consuming, otherwise an indirect process, such as drip irrigation,

By Brad Stager

is required. Watering can be done any day of the week but is not allowed between the hours of 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Reclaimed water can also be used for industrial processes like cooling and cleaning. It cannot be used for filling swimming pools or hot tubs.

The role that reclaimed water plays in ensuring an adequate water supply for county residents was underscored in remarks made by Hillsborough County Commissioner Harry Cohen at a recent commission meeting.

“Hillsborough County has countless natural resources; parks, wildlife, beautiful scenery and our most treasured resource, which is water. We must do everything we can to conserve it. Hillsborough County and the Southwest Florida Water Management District do a phenomenal job providing clean drinking water, wastewater treatment and reclaimed water services that enable our community to grow and prosper.”

Because of infrastructure requirements, access to reclaimed water is considered on an individual basis when a request for the service is made by a neighborhood or community association. More information is available at https:// hcfl.gov/ or by calling 813-272-5977.

FIVE LOCAL GYMNASTS ADVANCE AT NATIONAL COMPETITION

Five Tampa Bay Rhythmics gymnasts qualified for nationals after competing against gymnasts across the country at the end of May.

Alexis Georgiev, Madeline Beiter and Priscilla Marin, who are level-nine seniors, advanced to the elite qualifiers in the national competition, formerly known as the Junior Olympics. While they may not have made it to nationals, Tampa Bay Rhythmics owner Tyana Marlowe said the accomplishment was a “big step forward.”

“The most rewarding part was the relief after the competition knowing I gave it my best and now I could relax,” Georgiev said. “Hearing them call my name up as one of the gymnastics that qualified for nationals was very rewarding, and it was something I could bring back to my gym with pride.”

In addition to the three level-nine seniors, two level-six gymnasts, Zaida Leal and Tatiana Acevedo, advanced to the developmental championships. They competed in the championship at the beginning of June.

Coach Pam Tang has coached many of the gymnasts since they were little and has watched them develop as athletes and individuals.

“They are all very, very hard working,” Tang said. “… It’s been such a pleasure watching them grow up and be successful and become women of their own.”

The gymnasts are balancing Advanced

By Lily Belcher

Placement and dual-enrollment classes in high school while putting in between 25-30 hours of gymnastics practice a week. Beiter said balancing school and gymnastics can be one of the most challenging parts, especially when she wants to commit even more time to her sport. The most rewarding part for her is celebrating successes with her best friends. She also said spending her time at Tampa Bay Rhythmics has allowed her teammates to become family.

“We see each other every day,” Beiter said. “Even when we don’t have practice, we’re all still hanging out together, supporting each other.”

Tampa Bay Rhythmics and Dance opened in 2007 and ofers a range of performing arts teams, including gymnastics, in the Riverview area. The team of coaches trains gymnasts from preschool athletes to young adults in competitive teams.

Through rhythmic gymnastics — a rapidly growing Olympic sport — gymnasts combine dance skills, including flexibility and balance, to make floor routines more graceful and complex.

“Our gym is exclusively for gymnastics and using dance to enhance women’s gymnastics,” Marlowe said.

Visit www.tampabayrhythmics.com or call 813-741-2827 or email tampabayrhythmics@verizon.net.

Madeline Beiter has balanced school and gymnastics.

Alexis Georgiev has ‘grown up’ at Tampa Bay Rhythmics.

According to county ofcials, as much as half of the water used in Hillsborough County is for irrigation purposes, such as watering lawns.

SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDES UP TO $10,000 PER YEAR FOR LOW-INCOME STUDENTS AT UF PLANT CITY

Getting through

education is difcult for many students. Some may have to use student loans; others must find jobs in order to support their goal of attaining their degrees. Yet, through all the difculties, there is another solution. GeT-STEM, a new scholarship for the geomatics program at the University of Florida (UF) at Plant City, is available for low-income students.

Tis is one piece of equipment that students use in geomatics. Te drone took pictures of a farmland that has had drought for weeks, of which the students analyze the problem and come up with potential solutions.

For those unaware of Geomatics, it is the field of gathering, storing, processing, and delivering geographical information to special equipment that analyzes the acquired data. This scholarship is unique because eligible students transferring to the UF geomatics program can receive up to $10,000/year to cover unmet financial needs.

The scholarship is realized through a National Science Foundation (NSF) Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics program grant to fund a six-year project led by Dr. Amr Abd-Elrahman, a professor of the geomatics program.

Dr. Abd-Elrahman said, “This academic year (2023-24), we have awarded more than $70,000 to 11 qualified students.” Dr. Abd-Elrahman added that four of the awarded students graduated this spring.

Professor Ali Gonzalez, a specialist in

By Gunnar Wagner

the geomatics program and a co-worker of Dr. Abd-Elrahman, stated that “graduates have salaries that start from $60K annually in addition to rewarding benefits packages. Students can also work while completing the program, gaining from $25/hour for field work to $20/ hour or more for ofce work.”

Gonzalez also mentioned that students are typically given several options: They can either study full time or they can find a job in the geospatial industry to gain experience and earn a substantial income.

So, what are the requirements for this brilliant scholarship? For one to be eligible, they must be enrolled in the geomatics program for at least six credit hours during the semesters the scholarship is awarded, demonstrate academic merit by meeting program requirements and maintaining a 2.5 GPA, be low-income students with unmet financial need based on the information provided in their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and be a U.S. citizen.

To learn more about this scholarship or others like it, visit https://fgs.ifas.ufl. edu/geomatics-get-stem-scholarship or https://fgs.ifas.ufl.edu/resources/. The University of Florida at Plant City campus is located at 1200 N. Park Rd.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS Q&A

With hurricane season approaching, the Southwest Florida Water Management District is preparing for a heightened risk of severe rain events, flooding and storm damage. Jerry Mallams, operations bureau chief, explained how the district works to prepare for the storm season by minimizing flood risks throughout the 16-county region.

Q: What does the district do to prepare for hurricane season?

A: Year-round, the district operates 84 water control structures in its 16-county area. These structures assist with flood protection, manage lake water levels and prevent saltwater from flowing up freshwater streams and creeks. To prepare for hurricane season, sta f conduct annual hurricane readiness checks of all the district’s structures to ensure they are working properly. This includes making certain all structure gates are functioning correctly and that each emergency generator is working and fully fueled.

Q: What is the largest flood control system in the district?

A: The Tampa Bypass Canal System is the largest flood control system in the district. It is made up of nine flood control structures, a 6.5-mile earthen

dam and 15.7 miles of canals, and impounds flood waters from the Hillsborough River into the 16,000-acre Lower Hillsborough Flood Detention Area. As the detention area fills with water from the river and the surrounding 450-squaremile watershed, the flows then enter the Tampa Bypass Canal and are safely diverted to McKay Bay, protecting the cities of Temple Terrace and Tampa from river flooding. The Tampa Bypass Canal System was constructed in response to massive flooding caused by Hurricane Donna in 1960.

Q: What actions does the district take during an active storm threat?

A: During an active storm threat, district o f cials activate its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to monitor tropical storms and hurricanes. Depending on the level of activation, the district will mobilize appropriate emergency personnel to report to the EOC for extended shifts. Sta f will monitor and document water levels and operate water control structures on water bodies throughout the district’s 16-county area as needed. EOC o f cials will maintain direct communications with the state and a f ected county EOCs and distribute information to the media, the public and district employees.

Jerry L. Mallams, P.G., operations bureau chief of the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

ELECTRIC SCHOOL BUSES SET TO JOIN HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT’S FLEET

Hillsborough school ofcials have given the goahead to purchase 20 electric school buses months after learning that Hillsborough had been awarded $7.9 million in federal funding for clean school buses and infrastructure.

Hillsborough County Schools recently was awarded funding to purchase 20 electric school buses.

In discussing the grant receipt at the January 9 school board meeting, Superintendent Van Ayres heralded the grant money for zero-emission vehicles through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean School Bus Program grants competition.

“We are appreciative of the hard work of our grants and transportation teams, who were instrumental in distinguishing Hillsborough County Public Schools through the acquisition of these funds,” Ayres said in remarks before the meeting. “We look forward to preparing a plan that will address our infrastructure needs as we enhance our transportation system.”

Now in Hillsborough, it was announced at the school board meeting on May 7 that school board members had agreed to purchase 20 electric school buses, including nine each from Thomas Built Buses Inc. and Blue Bird Corporation and two from Integrated Coach Corporation. The three companies were on a preapproved list provided by the Florida Department of Education.

According to school ofcials, the

By Linda Chion

77-passenger buses are to serve specific inner-city routes to the school district’s underserved communities. The buses are expected to be operational in early 2025, giving time for necessary training and infrastructure needs, such as charging stations.

As for costs and savings for the 202425 school year, that would be an outlay of $8.4 million, with a projected cost savings of more than $4 million in reduced maintenance costs and fuel savings, according to Hillsborough school ofcials.

With funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA’s Clean School Bus Program provides $5 billion over five fiscal years, 2022 to 2026, to replace existing school buses with zero-emission and clean school buses.

According to a May 29 report from the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, “354 electric buses (and 3,400 nationwide) will be rolling into the southeast, providing $114 million in savings to their local school districts.” Moreover, “to date, the program has funded almost $3 billion nationally and 1,392 in [the southeast] region.”

Hillsborough’s 2023 grant application was titled “Schools Are Too Cool for Fuel: Pilot for EV Buses and Infrastructure.” For more on EPA’s Clean School Bus Program, visit www.epa. gov/cleanschoolbus.

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

Rotary Clubs are wrapping up their Rotary year and new ofcers are taking the helm on Monday, July 1. To celebrate a year of service as well as learn about Rotary’s Camp Florida in Brandon, Interact, Rotaract and Rotary Clubs from four counties converged at the camp to attend the Rotary District Conference on June 8.

Rotary’s Camp Florida is a local, 21-acre, ADA-compliant campsite that provides a safe, barrier-free space to learn, grow and play for groups whose members need supportive accommodations, including chemotherapy. Groups like Faces of Courage rent the camp to provide a camp experience tailored to suit the specific needs of the children and adults they serve. Peggy Sherry, founder and CEO of Faces of Courage, provided firsthand stories regarding the importance of the camp to the campers who attend.

of Florida Southern College in Lakeland. Students there heard from world-renowned leaders, learned more about themselves as well as useful leadership skills and engaged in thought-provoking discussions in ‘rap sessions’ with current Rotarians. Ava Benedict and Grifn Chapman attended, sponsored by FishHawk-Riverview Rotary. To learn more about Rotary and getting involved locally, reach out to a club today. The Rotary Club of Brandon meets Tuesdays at 12 Noon-1 p.m. and the Brandon ’86 Rotary Club meets Fridays from 8-9 a.m. Both clubs meet at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Contact Debbie Meegan (Brandon) at debbiemeeganrotary@gmail.com or Chad Norgard (Brandon ’86) at chad@norgardinsgrp.com.

The new CEO of Rotary’s Camp Florida, Dawn Carson, is a member and past president of FishHawk-Riverview Rotary. She will be leading the camp through needed repairs as well as the building of a wheelchair-accessible treehouse. To learn more about the camp and its needs or to volunteer or donate, visit https://rotaryscampflorida.org/. You can also check out its Facebook page.

On June 16, 160 rising high school seniors sponsored by Rotary Clubs from around the state attended S4TL (Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders), a seven-day residential leadership seminar on the campus

Brandon Global Eco Rotary meets via Zoom on the second and fourth Mondays from 6-7 p.m. Contact Bruno Kazenas at bkazenas@comcast.net.

FishHawk-Riverview Rotary meets on Mondays from 12 Noon-1 p.m. at JF Kicks, located at 3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. It also has an evening option on Thursdays from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Shrimp Boat, located at 1020 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Contact Betty Huth at betty@ hbphoto.com.

The Rotary E-Club of Tampa South meets via Zoom on the first and third Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. Contact Duane Williams at dsigma79@aol.com.

Athletic Injury and Performance

Performance Care to Maximize Your Athlete’s Abilities

Florida high school athletes are pushed to perform at high levels, year-round. Whether that be in multiple sports or with single-sport specialization, it puts them at a high risk for overuse injuries. When you get pain while throwing, squatting, or with certain movements during the game, it can be hard to know if you should just push through it or if it’s something that may result in full-on injury if you keep going.

The Good News!

It’s common for us to have athletes come into our offce to get an injury treated, but more often than not, a non-traumatic injury is the result of body mechanics not functioning appropriately. This means that if we were to just treat the injury itself and then send that athlete back to the sport that caused the injury in the frst place, they would likely end up injured again. This is why in all of our treatment plans we perform a head to toe joint evaluation.

Many of these aches and pains, if caught early enough, can have simple fixes when properly assessed and treated.

But, you could put yourself at risk for more serious injury… If you try to play through the pain. You could cause injury to the muscle, ligaments, or joint, or even change the entire biomechanics of your pitch/swing/etc. Treating an ache versus over-use damage to the body, then re-training movement biomechanics and building back up the strength and endurance to perform at the level you were before, can be the difference in days of rehab compared to months. Unfortunately, it only takes one throw/kick/etc. to cross that line from ache to full-on injury.

From your neck down to literally how your big toe is functioning, we evaluate how that joint is performing when you run, pitch, jump, etc. Not only does this approach keep our athletes out of injury, but it can make them to pitch faster, run harder, and jump higher.

Generalized training and conditioning with the team or even sport-specifc with most trainers does not account for every athlete’s individualized anatomical abilities. They train for the sport requirements and not what that athlete may be able to safely perform, so ultimately, it ends up training compensation patterns that result in injury or decreased performance.

Our physicians are trained in techniques that many professional athletes and teams utilize to keep their players performing at their highest ability, safely.

High school athletes training year-round need to have a relationship with a trusted medical professional familiar with these cases. At Motion ChiroTherpapy, we see athletes involved in everything from baseball to swimming to horseback riding. And it’s not just back pain...many of these athletes have their own individual goals in mind. Some want to get rid of pain they get while playing, others come wanting to pitch faster or stronger at higher counts.

Dr. Lutz and Dr. Price create individualized rehab plans to accomplish whatever their patient’s goals are, whether it’s rehabbing injury or training biomechanics for optimal performance. If your high schooler is training year-round, it’s not IF they will get injured, it’s WHEN. Trust the professionals and get treated like a pro at Motion ChiroTherapy.

You can fnd the same techniques and protocols in our offce that are used throughout the MLB, NHL, NFL, and even at Westside Barbell, which produces arguably the strongest powerlifters in the world.

Athletes we love to work with: runners, swimmers, pitchers, golfers, weightlifters, and all youth and high school athletes

Te new CEO of Rotary’s Camp Florida, Dawn Carson.

Dr. Robert Lutz

Dr. Robert Lutz

Meet & Greet, BINGO & More...

by

Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Krewe Of Charlotte De Berry

Meet And Greet Social

Ahoy, all you landlubbers. Would you like to become a pirate wench? The Krewe of Charlotte de Berry is hosting a meet and greet social on Wednesday, July 24, from 6-8 p.m. at Latitudes, located at 131 Harbor Village Lane in Apollo Beach. The aim of the event is to promote an awareness of the krewes existence. Ye Royal Krewe of Charlotte de Berry is an all-female krewe based in the SouthShore area. Its krewe life focuses on building community involvement by participating in parades and dedicating time, talent and fundraisers to benefit local charities. For more information, visit www. kreweofcharlottedeberry.com.

St. Stephen Community For Women Music Bingo

St. Stephen Catholic Church’s Community for Women will be hosting a music bingo fundraiser at Bullfrog Creek Brewery Co. on Tuesday, July 9, starting at 7 p.m. The price for tickets is $25. Along with bingo, there will be a silent auction and a 50/50 drawing, with all proceeds from the event benefiting the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, Home Makers of Hope (beds for the recently homed) and THORN Ministries (for the unhoused). Bullfrog Creek Brewery Co. is located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. This is a popular event, so please arrive early to secure your seat.

is the third year in a row that Miss Tampa Bay Softball has won the 8U Championship.

Te Travis Manion 9/11 Heroes

Run is back in FishHawk at Park Square

The Travis Manion 9/11 Heroes Run is back in FishHawk at Park Square Plaza on Saturday, September 28. This race is a heartfelt tribute to the heroes of 9/11, our veterans, and first re-sponders, bringing together our community in a powerful display of unity and patriotism. Registration is now open. Lace up your running shoes and be part of a day that honors our past and supports our future. For more information and to register, visit www.travismanion.org/ events/911- heroes-run/2024-tampa-fl.

Charity Music Bingo At Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co.

Join the Kappa Kappa Chapter of Kappa Delta Phi on Thursday, July 18, for a night of music, fun and prizes with charity music bingo at Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. Bingo will start at 7 p.m., but arrive early to secure a table. This will be a first-come, firstserve event, and there will be no table reservations.

The cost is $20 per person and includes one set of bingo cards. There will be 50/50 rafe tickets for $20. Food and drinks are also available for purchase. Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. is located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.

GET THE DIRT:

WHEN THE RAIN ARRIVES, CONSIDER THESE OPTIONS BY

LYNN BARBER, URBAN

Many of us, hopefully most, care if we save potable — i.e., drinking — water in the landscape. About 1,000 people move to Florida daily. This will create an increase in the overall water demand, and water is a nonrenewable resource. To make sure there is enough to go around, each of us needs to consider ways we can save potable water in our landscapes.

HORTICULTURE AGENT

Here are some examples of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles and related practices that conserve water. The options below can save water and money and cost you absolutely nothing, and they include shutting it of and a free irrigation evaluation.

Shut it of — “it” being your irrigation controller. Do you walk or drive down your street, as rain is falling, and see your or your neighbors’ irrigation systems in operation and wonder why? We also wonder why. Please see the sections below: functioning rain shutof device and free irrigation evaluation. Both paragraphs may be eye-opening.

Florida Statute 373.62 (2009) requires a functioning rain shutof device where inground irrigation has been installed. The life expectancy of some of these devices is one to three years.

We have staf that conduct irrigation evaluations. Contact Will Stone of UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 813-7445519. He can provide more information on how to determine if your rain shutof device is working correctly. Stone schedules free irrigation evaluations on-site or over the phone for high-water users — 20,000 gallons per month or more. Check your water bill, which shows the number of gallons of water you are using. Please refer to the University of Florida publication “Residential Irrigation System Rainfall Shutof Devices, or Rain Sensors” by Michael D. Dukes and Dorota Z. Haman at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ae221.

Purchase drought-tolerant plants, which require significantly less or no water after establishment. Extension ofces have copies of “The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design.” This guide provides information on plant materials for Florida, and the key is useful to identify plants with high, medium and low or no drought tolerance.

Hydrozone your plants. This means grouping your plants according to their watering needs. Again, the “Plant Selection Guide” will be beneficial because it shows the soil moisture needed by the plants in the guide, from well-drained to wet and four categories in between.

Plant ground covers instead of turfgrass where turf is not purposeful. Turfgrass pur-

poses can include play areas for children, a pet area for dogs, putting green, etc. Ground covers generally require less water, fertilizer and pesticides than turfgrass. The guide referred to above provides information on several ground covers that will work in our area. If you live in a deed restricted community, check your deed restrictions and meet with your landscape review or architectural control committees as required before making changes.

Mulch landscape beds (2-3 inches deep after settling). Mulch is beneficial because it retains moisture in the soil, moderates soil temperature, reduces runof and erosion, improves soil structure, suppresses weeds, enhances the beauty of the landscape, provides increased area for root growth and protects plants from lawn mowers and weed eaters.

Microirrigation is great for landscape beds. We also ofer patio/container and vegetable microirrigation workshops. Compared to traditional in-ground irrigation systems, microirrigation provides gallons of water per hour instead of gallons per minute. This irrigation method not only conserves water, but it is also less restricted by water restrictions.

Apply 1/2-3/4 of an inch of water (irrigation or rainfall), which is all plants need per watering event. How do you know how much water you received from rainfall? Use a rain gauge to determine whether this amount has been reached and empty the rain gauge after viewing it. You can also do a ‘catch can test’ to determine the amount of water your in-ground irrigation system is providing by individual zone. For more information on the catch can test, please see the University of Florida publication “Frequency of Residential Irrigation Maintenance Problems” at https:// edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ae472.

Harvest rainwater for ornamental plants, not edibles, if captured from your roof. We ofer this class monthly from February through November. Please visit our calendar of events at https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ events/?location=hillsborough.

Consider creating a rain garden in a low area of your landscape. This will decrease some of the stormwater runof from your yard. Plant selections should include those that like wet feet and are drought-tolerant for times when we don’t receive much rain. Consider using swamp hibiscus, swamp sunflower, wire grass and muhly grass. Before you purchase plants for your rain garden, determine the existing site conditions.

Conserving water in our landscapes involves easy options. For assistance with questions, call 813-744-5519. Contact: labarber@ufl.edu.

Compiled

Miss Tampa Bay Softball won the Miss Florida All Star Championship in the 8U division, and the 16U team took second in their division. Tis

BONEFISH GRILL PRESENTS NEW MENU FOR WEEKEND BRUNCH

Bonefish Grill is known for its modern atmosphere that’s perfect for date nights. But, with its newly launched brunch menu served all weekend long, you can now include Bonefish Grill as the perfect brunch location too.

Bonefish Grill was founded in 2000 by Tim Curci and Chris Parker when the duo opened the very first location in St. Petersburg, fueled by their shared love for catching, cooking and serving fresh fish.

Full of fresh and innovative dishes, the Bonefish menu specializes in seasonal fresh fish and indulgent appetizers, like the crowd-favorite Bang Bang Shrimp.

For the brunch menu, several popular dishes have been upgraded, including:

• Bang Bang Shrimp Eggs Benedict: Crispy shrimp on a toasted English mufn with poached eggs, green onions and spicy hollandaise sauce.

• Traditional Eggs Benedict: Smoked ham on a toasted English mufn with poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce.

• Brûlée French Toast: Brioche bread soaked with Grand Marnier and orange zest, served with chef-crafted whipped cream, mint and fresh strawberries.

• Shrimp & Grits: Wood-grilled shrimp topped with a creamy Creole sauce, served over mozzarella-infused grits and finished with green onions and parmesan cheese.

By Marie Gilmore

Other fan favorites now ofered all weekend long during brunch include:

• BFG Egg Burger: Bonefish Grill’s signature half-pound burger on a toasted bun, fully dressed with sharp cheddar cheese and special sauce and topped with a fried egg.

• Crab and Fontina Cheese Frittata: Egg soufé topped with creamy fontina cheese and lump crab meat.

“We’re excited to bring our guests their favorite Bonefish brunch oferings, now reimagined with innovative twists and an additional day to enjoy them,” said Mark Graf, president of Bonefish Grill.

Brunch is served at Bonefish Grill every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. To find your closest spot to grab your crew and catch up over a mouthwatering menu, visit www.bonefishgrill.com.

Ofering a flavorful and spirited neighborhood retreat, Bonefish Grill serves share-worthy food and cocktails that guests can’t wait to enjoy time and time again. Bonefish Grill ofers car-side carryout, bountiful family bundle meals that feed up to five and catering selections for everyday gatherings and special events. Dine in, order carryout online or get delivery through DoorDash or Uber Eats. For more information, visit www.bonefishgrill.com or follow it on Facebook or Instagram. Bonefish Grill Brandon is located at 1015 Providence Rd.

CAROUSEL KIDS CONSIGNMENT

ENCOURAGES LOCAL FAMILIES TO STOP AND SHOP

Carousel Kids Consignment in Lithia welcomes families to browse the collection of children’s clothing items in the Winn-Dixie plaza. August is the 19-year milestone of Carousel Kids Consignment providing clothing to the community.

Consignment shops are resale stores in which a consignor gives clothes and other items to the store to be sold and receives a percentage of the money earned from the item sales. Carousel Kids Consignment accepts children’s items and clothing, and the consignor is paid when the items are sold.

Carousel Kids Consignment has a wide variety of clothing from infants to teens. The store also carries useful items for families with children including diaper bags and toys for all ages.

The items that are not purchased by customers are distributed to Floridian families in need for no charge. There are distribution centers around Florida, so all the remaining items are donated rather than resold.

Carousel Kids Consignment is the only children’s consignment store in the sur-

By Sara Kitchin

rounding area, making it a unique shopping stop for families. The store is family-owned and continues to run due to the committed customers and a drive to give back to the community.

“We have long-standing clientele,” said Laura Weber, owner of Carousel Kids Consignment. “We have clients that are coming back to us now because they are having grandchildren. While their children are grown and out of the house, they can now come here and shop for the grandkids.”

The Carousel Kids Consignment store is looking forward to some upcoming changes and updates. Its space expanded two years ago, but the expanded space experienced water damage at the beginning of the year. This section will be renovated shortly, leaving more room for donations and items to sell.

The store has a history and a warmth brought by the family that owns it and the families that continue to shop and donate. Carousel Kids Consignment is open Monday through Saturday and encourages all to browse and donate.

For more information on items for sale and donation policies, visit the Carousel Kids Consignment Facebook page or call 813-571-8181.

Try the new Bonefsh Grill brunch menu served every Saturday and Sunday.

Carousel Kids Consignment is open for browsing in Lithia’s Winn-Dixie plaza.

Florida’s hottest show on dirt returns.

The Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, charges into the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday, July 19 and 20. Fresh of a sold-out event in April, this summer’s rodeo promises to be a can’t-be-missed event with new competitors, new livestock and thrilling action throughout. The area’s best cowboys and cowgirls are saddling up for two days of rodeo competition, including bull riding, bronco riding, barrel racing, team roping, calf roping and steer wrestling. Fans can come early to the Family Festival for yummy food, refreshing beverages, live music and fun activities for the entire family. Tickets are on sale now for this high-energy event; parking is free.

To beat the summer heat, guests can cool of in one of the brand-new Family Festival Cool Zones, ofering shade and misters. One Cool Zone is located in the 150-foot-by-130-foot Mega Tent, a new addition this year. The other is in the Entertainment Beer Barn where Crossfire Creek Band will take the stage both nights playing country tunes.

“We are always looking for ways to make the Tampa Bay Rodeo a bigger and

Staf Report

better experience for families,” said event producer Ryan Henning. “Providing a way for everyone to get out of the sun and cool of was important to us because of the heat we’ve been experiencing in Florida. Plus, we know fans like a full rodeo, so we are featuring six diferent competitions this summer.”

As always, there will be delicious fare, including barbecue, tacos, pork rinds, pizza, corn dogs, funnel cakes and more. Attendees can quench their thirst with cold sodas, water or refreshing beer. Making its Family Festival debut, monster truck Later Gator raises dust with wheel-churning rides. Guests can test their skills on the always-popular mechanical bull or try their hand at ax throwing. While food and some activities require an extra fee, there are plenty of amusements included in the ticket price, such as kids/family yard games, such as Jenga, Connect 4 and cornhole; the 45-foot-tall Super Slide; and a goat playground area, complete with adorable baby goats. Multiple photo-op areas allow families to capture memories of the night. For more information and tickets, please visit the https://tamparodeo.com/. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

The historic Tampa Theatre cut the ribbon on the new John T. Taylor Screening Room on May 31. Special guests at the ribbon-cutting included Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and John T. Taylor, the philanthropist for whom the micro cinema was named.

By Kathy L. Collins

whole thing.”

Castor said, “The Tampa Theatre is an icon in this city.”

This is the first expansion of the historic movie palace in its 98-year history.

Taylor’s donation gave the organization the momentum it needed to secure the additional funding, primarily from the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners and the Downtown Tampa CRA Board.

Taylor said, “I have always loved the movies. I grew up going to the Arc Theater in Lafayette, Indiana, eating 10-cent popcorn and watching Roy Rogers and Gene Autry on the big screen.”

Taylor explained, “My first visit to Tampa Theatre was for a tour. I met John Bell (president and CEO of Tampa Theatre), and eventually joined the board of directors in 2012. Everything about this theater is just so fascinating to me, and when I sold our family farm in Indiana a few years ago, one of the first things I did was give them the money to kick-start this

The look of the 1,200-squarefoot room (43 seats) draws inspiration from Tampa Theatre’s original architect, John Eberson. Tampa Theatre staf imagined what type of space he might build for his own personal use. The Taylor Screening Room’s design takes colors, textures and details that Eberson used in his 1926 plans for Tampa Theatre and incorporates modern touches that pay tribute both to Eberson’s career as an architect and to his personal family collection of art and photos.

Bell said, “We currently manage to present 700 show times a year in a single space.” Bell added, “Having this second programming space will give us flexibility like we have never had before. We will be able to host more live shows, concerts and community events in the historic hall; show more of the independent, international and art-house films Tampa Theatre is known for; support more of the local film community’s work; and welcome more of our treasured Tampa Theatre guests.”

Tampa Theatre is located at 711 N. Franklin St. in Tampa. For more information on Tampa Theatre and to see a movie, please visit https://tampatheatre.org/ or call 813-274-8981.

Te Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival returns in July with two days of rodeo competition plus food, beverages, fun and live music for the whole family.

John T. Taylor Screening Room. Tis micro cinema is the frst expansion

the Tampa Teatre in its 98-year history. Tampa Teatre is truly a gem to behold and a place you must visit.

WHY CHOOSE US?

“Freedom

Know T e Key Dates And T e T ree Ways To Vote Ahead Of Florida’s Primary Election

This is going to be an exciting year for elections. Voting is a right, but with every right comes responsibilities. In order to vote, you must be informed. The first opportunity to vote is in the primary election, which is set to take place on Tuesday, August 20. There are important dates and times to keep in mind. The deadline to register/ change your party afliation is Monday, July 22. Early voting will take place from Monday, August 5, to Sunday, August 18, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot is Thursday, August 8 at 5 p.m. Election Day is August 20, and polls are open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

court judge, soil and water conservation districts, community development districts and special taxing districts — by visiting www. votehillsborough.gov.

For candidates for president, U.S. senator, U.S. Representative, state attorney, public defender, state senator, state representative, Supreme Court justice, district court of appeal and circuit judge, you can visit https:// dos.fl.gov/elections/.

While Florida is a closed primary state, Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections

Craig Latimer said, “I want all voters to understand that they can vote in the primary election, regardless of their party afliation. There are nonpartisan races that will be de-

cided in the primary election, and if you do not vote you will miss your opportunity to have a voice in who represents you in those ofces.”

If you need information on the candidates, you can find local candidates — including clerk of circuit court, sherif, property appraiser, tax collector, supervisor of elections, county commission, school board, county

In Florida, you have several ways to vote. Latimer said, “I encourage voters to plan their vote. You have three convenient options that include vote-by-mail, early voting and election day. So, there really is no excuse to miss an election. You will find information about where, when and how you can vote at www.votehillsborough.gov. Starting about a month before each election, you can also look up your sample ballot to see who you can vote for.”

VOTE-BY-MAIL

Vote-by-mail is the most convenient method. You do not need an excuse to select this method. However, the Florida State Legislature has changed some of the rules surrounding vote-by-mail. Latimer explained, “Because of new state law, vote-by-mail requests expire after every general election. As such, you will only get vote-by-mail ballots for the 2024 elections

By Kathy L. Collins

if you have submitted a new request. The quickest way to make your request is to go online to www. votehillsborough.gov or call 744-5900. You will need to give us your Florida driver license or the last four digits of your Social Security number for verification.”

Using this method allows you to take your time making decisions about who to vote for. However, your vote-by-mail ballot must be received by the Hillsborough County supervisor of elections by 7 p.m. on primary election day.

EARLY VOTING

Early voting is just like voting on primary election day. You must bring one or two forms of identification with your photo and signature. Examples of acceptable forms of ID include a Florida driver’s license issued by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, U.S. passport, military ID, student ID, public assistance ID and more.

During early voting, you can go to a number of designated sites.

ELECTION DAY VOTING

Polling places or precincts are noted on your voter registration card. They are open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. This year, primary election day is August 20.

Whichever method you choose, remember that your vote counts.

warren_a@ sao13th.com

LISA MCLEAN COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER

After several decades, voters in Hillsborough Couty will decide who the next Hillsborough County public defender will be. Lisa McLean, a longtime attorney with over three decades of diverse experience as a prosecutor, public defender, statewide prosecutor and owner of a firm specializing in criminal defense, is running to be the next public defender for Hillsborough County.

McLean would like your vote on Tuesday, August 20.

McLean said, “I am committed to bringing a fresh, outside perspective to the Public Defender’s Ofce. My goal is to enhance efciency, transparency and trust within the ofce by leveraging technology, fostering partnerships with local colleges and law schools and promoting work-life balance for our defenders to prevent burnout and reduce turnover. Ultimately, my professional journey is driven by a deep commitment to justice, fairness and the well-being of our community.”

McLean will use her vast professional experience as well as the lessons she learned growing up in poverty to revamp and improve the Public Defender’s Ofce.

McLean said, “I will ensure that taxpayer money is spent wisely. The ofce should be

By Kathy L. Collins

representing those that are truly indigent. It is the responsibility of the elected public defender to ensure compliance with the law. Fiscal conservatism benefits the community and those that truly cannot aford a lawyer. Limited resources should be directed toward the truly indigent and eforts to make our communities safe.”

McLean is board-certified in criminal trial, which means that she has special proficiency, skills and special knowledge in criminal law, as well as professionalism and ethics in practice. The experience and professionalism that must be demonstrated to become board-certified is exactly what citizens want in an elected ofcial.

“I aim to create a more equitable legal system, one that decriminalizes poverty, supports mental health and provides alternatives to incarceration. The Public Defender’s Ofce stands as a pillar of fairness and compassion in our community,” stated McLean.

“I am ready to lead the Public Defender’s Ofce with dedication, innovation and compassion to ensure a more just legal system for all,” McLean added.

For more information, please visit https:// lisaforpublicdefender.com/.

CHRISTINE EDWARDS COUNTY COURT JUDGE, GROUP 11

Attorney Christine Edwards is running for county court judge for Hillsborough County in Group 11. Edwards is on the ballot and you can vote for her during the primary election, which is on Tuesday, August 20. Edwards said, “As someone who walked side by side with someone navigating the court system, I have a unique insight and awareness of the immense responsibility and privilege it is to have someone put their full trust in you. I value trust as the most important quality of a judge because they make decisions that will profoundly impact someone else’s life.”

Edwards focuses on criminal law, family law and personal injury law. Edwards said, “In addition to private practice, I am proud to be the only attorney on the ballot court appointed by the State of Florida. I have the privilege to handle Marchman Act cases exclusively and [am] one of very few lawyers … in this county that practices in this area. Marchman Act Court was established as a problem-solving court that allows families to petition the courts for mandatory substance abuse assessment and treatment, whether drugs or alcohol. Through this appointment, I work closely with the Behavioral Resources Unit of the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce.”

Staf Report

When asked of her greatest accomplishment, Edwards explained, “I am humbled to have been a young lawyer that successfully defended a 3.850 motion, challenging the conviction of a man that was sentenced to 30 years for a drug offense, a mere six months after I graduated law school. Those motions are argued 100 percent of the time and rarely granted. Today, that man has an amazing life. He is rehabilitated, has a great job and family. His daughter he named after me. That man was also my uncle.”

This story explains the depth and breadth of Edwards’ passion for the judicial system and for those who need a fair judge to hear their case.

Edwards said, “I am the best candidate because when I walk into the courthouse, it will be through the same doors I have walked in nearly every day for the last 12 years. I will be serving the same community I have connected with over my career. My experience in the courtroom, knowledge from practicing in disciplines that a county court judge will preside over, criminal and civil cases, makes me the best candidate for county judge.”

For more information, please visit https:// voteedwardsforjudge.com/.

Professional Practicing law since 2012 in the areas of criminal defense, civil litigation & family law

Owner and Managing Attorney of Edwards Law, PLLC

Offce of Criminal Confict and Civil Regional Counsel - Assistant Regional Counsel

Court-appointed counsel for Marchman Act Court

eDUCaTion

Stetson University College of Law, Juris Doctor, May 2012

University of Central Florida, BS, Legal Studies, cum laude CiViC inVolVeMenT Human Development Center, Board of Trustees

Tampa Kiwanis, Member

Tampa’s Top 40 under 40

FOX 13, Legal Commentator

Innocence Project Stetson Law Chapter, past member

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, past member

KAREN BENDORF SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 7

Karen Bendorf, a Plant City resident and sixth grade teacher at Tomlin Middle School in Plant City, is running for a seat on the Hillsborough County School Board in District 7, a countywide seat.

By Kathy L. Collins

Bendorf is married to a community pastor and is a mother to six boys who range in age from 10-23 years old. Bendorf received her bachelor’s degree from Alabama State University. She has been a teacher in Hillsborough County for 13 years.

“It is time to stand up and do better for our children,” said Bendorf, who wants to bring her experience as a teacher, her knowledge and her out-of-the-box thinking to the Hillsborough County School Board to help reform the county’s schools.

Bendorf articulated several issues that propelled her to run for the school board.

First, Bendorf wants to reform the ways in which we teach our children to read. “We are not teaching our students how to read. More than 50 percent of students are below the third grade proficiency level.” Bendorf added, “Every child should be able to read, and all of them can learn to read. However, we have not been teaching them the basic

skills.”

Second, according to Bendorf, there are discipline issues in schools that are not being addressed.

“The school board needs

to set a high standard for student conduct in the classroom,” said Bendorf. “Teachers do not feel supported, and parents do not know what is happening in the classroom due to behavior issues,” she added.

Third, according to Bendorf, the Hillsborough County School Board needs to be more responsible with the budget and not request additional money through taxes or referendums. Bendorf said, “There has not been an audit of the school budget. When you try to find information about cost of programs, you cannot find it. We need to know where the dollars are going and how it impacts students in the classroom.”

Bendorf said, “I am proud of the fact that I have raised boys to love the Lord, make good choices and go against the flow. I want to see a generation of children who can read and make our community what it can be.”

For more information, please visit www. electkarenbendorf.com.

MATTHEW SMITH COUNTY COURT JUDGE, GROUP 21

Judge Matt Smith has served as a county court judge for Hillsborough County since December 2021. He was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis. Smith is running for election in Group 21 and would like your vote on Tuesday, August 20.

Smith presides over county civil cases. These include landlord/ tenant disputes, insurance claims for both homeowner and automobile disputes, debtor/creditor disputes and much more. Smith efectively handles a busy docket. When he was first appointed, he presided over dependency drug treatment court, Title IV child support, animal court and more.

Why is this important? Smith explained, “There is no substitute for judicial experience. Voters want to select someone who they think is a good judge, and the best evidence of that is the fact that he is doing the job and has a record.”

Smith has presided over thousands of cases since being appointed to the bench. Smith said, “A good measurement is to look at how a judge’s rulings are reviewed during an appeal. In the two and a half years that I have been a judge, no case that I have ruled on has been overturned on appeal.”

By Kathy L. Collins

Smith brings discipline and years of trial experience to the bench. He graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1997 and is a veteran of the United States Air Force. He was medically discharged from the Air Force. He graduated from Florida State University College of Law in 2000.

Following graduation, he served as a prosecutor for 21 years, first in the State Attorney’s Ofce for the Second Judicial Circuit in Leon County and then in the State Attorney’s Ofce for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit in Hillsborough County. He also served as a prosecutor for the Florida attorney general in the Ofce of Statewide Prosecution.

Again, this is important. Smith said, “As a prosecutor I was constantly in court. I have tried 160 cases to verdict and argued countless motions. Ninety percent of what a judge does is in the courtroom. You want a judge who has trial experience.”

In addition to the trial experience, you can count on Smith to be nonbiased, as he has efectively served in the military and as a prosecutor under the administrations of both political parties.

For more information, visit https:// judgemattsmith.com/.

PROFESSIONAL

County Judge – Presiding over County Civil Division V, Title IV Child Support Division and Animal Court, hearing and ruling on thousands of cases

Senior Assistant Statewide Prosecutor

State Attorney, Chief Felony Division

U. S. Air Force Veteran

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Military Veterans Afairs Committee

HCBA Bench Bar Committee

Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago

Dad’s Club, Academy of the Holy Names

Florida Bar Grievance Committee

Florida Prosecuting Attorneys’ Association

Education Committee

American Legion

Tampa Hispanic Bar Association

Florida Cattlemen’s Association

Egypt Shrlne

EDUCATION

FSU College of Law

U. S. Air Force Academy

Valley Forge Military College

PERSONAL

Matthew and Roxanna have two children, Penelope and Maximilian, and a French Bulldog named French Fry

Attends St. Patrick’s Catholic Church

Paid by Matt Smith for Hillsborough County Judge.

JIM DAVISON COUNTY COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 6

Jim Davison, a longtime resident of New Tampa, is running for election to the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners. Davison, a Republican, is a candidate for District 6, which is a countywide seat.

Davison has spent his life serving others both professionally and as a volunteer in the community. Davison earned his medical degree from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He retired in October 2023 after working as an emergency medicine physician for over 35 years. As an emergency room physician, Davison made critical decisions in a timely manner.

With countless hours of travel to emergency rooms and urgent care centers throughout the county, from Sun City Center to New Tampa and West Tampa to Brandon, Davison became well-aware of transportation needs due to expansion and growth in the area. He co-founded and was the first chairman of the New Tampa Transportation Task Force. He was appointed by Tampa City Council to the countywide transportation ‘Committee of 99.’ Davison currently serves on the Hillsborough County Transportation Planning Organization’s advisory commission, working on the five-year and ‘LongRange Transportation’ plans.

“Hillsborough County is my home. It is

By Jane Owen

where I raised my family. I love New Tampa. I have driven all over the county. It’s a wonderful county. The people deserve better. There is a better way than what they are getting.”

Davison said. “They are not getting the infrastructure they are being promised.

I want to show them that this can all be done without raising taxes. In fact, we can actually roll back their taxes.”

Davison is dedicated to conservatism with taxes and government control, establishing a dependable transportation system that meets the needs of the growing community and accountability with the county budget.

Davison is endorsed by former Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy R. White; Cyril Spiro, M.D., MBA and former chair of Cory Lake Isles Community Development District; and Karen Jaroch, director of Fix Our Roads First.

Davison has been married to his wife, Diane, for 43 years. They have four grown children and five grandchildren.

For more information about Davison, visit www.votejimdavison.com. To learn more about the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, visit https://hcfl. gov/government/board-of-county-commissioners.

LYNN GRAY SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 7

Lynn Gray is running for reelection to the Hillsborough County School Board for District 7, a countywide seat. She would like your vote on Tuesday, August 20. Gray is one of seven members responsible for making policy decisions and overseeing a total budget of $4.2 billion for the seventh-largest school district in the nation and is the county’s largest employer with more than 24,000 employees.

Gray, a longtime teacher and instructional leader, was first elected in 2016. She has served as the school board chair and is currently a member of the Hillsborough County Children’s Board.

When asked why she is seeking reelection, Gray said, “I would like to continue my districtwide monthly committee meetings which address the needs of our communities, students, parents and staf members. My districtwide committees which had been formed since 2016 reflect the needs of the county. This includes a growing Hispanic population (Hispanic Forum), the need for increased Black studies and cultural identity (African American Task Force) and the need for student mental-social-emotional well-being (the Hillsborough Healthy Schools Committee). There is a major challenge of social media abuse among our students with human trafckers involved in their social me-

By Kathy L. Collins

dia platforms. The Human Trafcking and Student Online Safety committees are made up of the FBI, Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce, City of Tampa Police, NoMore Foundation and other Florida agencies.”

Gray would also like to continue working on afordable housing for teachers with Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and other developers in conjunction with unused schools and properties. Gray said, “Providing afordable housing is part of my concern and goal for the 20242025 school year.”

As to the issues, Gray explained that they include taking care of teachers and staf with pay that matches their dedicated service to children in the district.

Over her career as an educator, Gray has taught at every grade level, including college. “I am only serving for the well-being of the children,” she said. Gray was named Teacher of the Year two times in Hillsborough County and one time in Pasco County. Gray is an avid runner as well, having completed over 100 marathons, including 12 Boston Marathons. She has been married for 45 years and has one son and two grandchildren who attend Bevis Elementary School.

For more information, please visit www. votelynngray.com.

40 YEARS SERVING CHILDREN

NANCY MILLAN COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR

Nancy Millan, Hillsborough County tax collector, is running for reelection this year.

Millan was first elected in 2020 and would like your vote to continue serving Hillsborough County’s approximately 1.5 million residents.

Millan said, “I am pleased to announce my candidacy for reelection as Hillsborough County tax collector.” She added, “In the past two and a half years, we have made significant strides in delivering top-notch customer service to Hillsborough County residents. This includes modernizing appointment and walk-in procedures, leveraging new technologies for enhanced accessibility and investing in our dedicated team of 402 public servants.”

The tax collector is responsible for delivering several state and local government services. The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Ofce is one of the largest tax collector agencies in the state of Florida with over $2.8 billion collected and distributed over 2.3 million transactions processed in the last fiscal year.

Last year, under Millan’s leadership, the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Ofce modernized the walk-in queuing and appointment process by launching paperless mobile ticketing and a user-friendly online platform to schedule appointments. Millan also shifted the ofce from a strictly appointment-based model, used during the

By Kathy L. Collins

COVID-19 pandemic, to a service model focused on meeting the demand for a walk-in service, allowing for more customers to be served. Millan also improved driving test services and has increased driving tests administered by 43 percent since 2020.

In 2023, Millan became the first tax collector in the state of Florida to identify and deploy a language translation technology called Pocketalk in all Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Ofce locations. This technology allows Millan’s team to communicate with customers visiting the branch ofces for various services in 82 diferent languages, reducing repeat visits and breaking down barriers to service for non-English-speaking customers.

During her tenure as tax collector, zero findings were recorded during the ofce’s annual independent financial audits. With an ofce that collects and distributes over $2.8 billion annually, the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Ofce is a model agency for fiscal responsibility and accountability Millan is a native of Hillsborough County and an active community member. She is the first female and individual of Hispanic descent to hold the ofce. Millan was Hillsborough County’s Hispanic Woman of the Year in 2021.

For more information, please visit https:// votenancymillan.com/.

HILLSBOROUGH STATE ATTORNEY’S OFFICE EXPANDS GUN VIOLENCE UNIT FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES

Hillsborough County is growing faster than ever, and not only because of our gorgeous weather and booming economy. People are moving here because our county is a safe bet to start a small business and raise a family. It’s a place where our residents know law enforcement takes public safety seriously.

One of my top priorities as a state attorney is to work collaboratively with law enforcement partners on important issues facing our residents. Gun violence is at the top of the list. To better meet the needs of our growing community, I have expanded my office’s Gun Violence Unit. This unit is a team of highly trained prosecutors who handle exclusively firearm-related cases.

This restructuring will bring the Gun Violence Unit to a total of five attorneys. It allows our team of specialized attorneys to work hand in hand with law enforcement from the crime scene to the courtroom, giving us the best chance of holding violent offenders accountable.

As prosecutors, our greatest responsibilities are to the victims of crime and protecting public safety. We must use every tool we can to fight gun violence in our community. By expanding the Gun

Violence Unit, we will be dedicating significant resources toward prosecuting these brutal crimes that tear families apart. While it may seem like gun violence won’t happen in your community, I can tell you it has touched every corner of our county. The work this unit performs will make a positive difference no matter where you live. This expansion means we have more attorneys to work closely with law enforcement to keep track of violent offenders before they revictimize our community. It means our attorneys are learning about these cases at the earliest possible stage, moments after the trigger pull, which will create stronger prosecutions.

To ensure Hillsborough County remains a place where people want to live, work and play, we must stand up together to combat gun violence as a community. Addressing gun violence head on, in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, is essential to keep our community thriving. I am proud that our office can play an important role in enhancing public safety as we grow together.

Dear Residents of Hillsborough County,

With heartfelt gratitude, I am proud that our campaign faced no opposition and I am honored to continue serving as your tax collector for the next four years.

I am grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me. I assure you that my commitment to serve each and every one of you with integrity, innovation, and dedication remains unwavering.

I am excited to build on our accomplishments and to bring forth new initiatives that will further empower our community and enhance our services.

Nancy Millan

State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

Staf Report

BOB ‘COACH’ HENRIQUEZ COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER

One of the ofces up for election this year is the Hillsborough County property appraiser. Bob ‘Coach’ Henriquez is seeking reelection. Henriquez stands out as a candidate with a proven track record of fiscal responsibility, technological advancement and genuine concern for the county’s citizens.

Throughout his tenure, Henriquez has demonstrated a relentless drive to enhance the efciency of the Property Appraiser’s Ofce while minimizing the tax burden on residents. For the 2024-25 fiscal year, Henriquez has proposed a budget decrease of 1.09 percent from the previous year. Thanks to these and previous efciencies during his 12-year tenure as property appraiser, Henriquez’s ofce has returned nearly $3.2 million to the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners.

Henriquez is a fifth-generation resident of Hillsborough County and a former head football coach for his alma mater, Tampa Catholic High School. Henriquez graduated from Princeton University and played football there.

“As the son of a house painter who was the first in my family to attend college, I fully understand the financial pressures that our citizens are facing due to ongoing inflation,” said Henriquez.

“I have made it a priority to listen to our citizens’ concerns and find ways to alleviate

By Kathy L. Collins

the tax burden many are feeling as property values rise,” added Henriquez.

A recent financial report from the Florida Department of Revenue highlighted Henriquez’s ofce as operating with the lowest budget per capita among the state’s 67 county property appraiser ofces.

The primary duty of the Property Appraiser’s Ofce is to assess the full market value of the approximately 557,000 properties in Hillsborough County as of January 1 each year and issue property tax exemptions to all qualified owners. During his tenure, Henriquez has leveraged cutting-edge technologies to reduce his total number of employees from 133 when he first took ofce in 2013 to its current level of 108.

Of all the property tax exemptions Henriquez’s ofce is responsible for, the most important is homestead exemption. This exemption is vital because it statutorily caps the taxed value of a property from increasing more than 3 percent per year, ofering significant savings and stability for homeowners.

The property appraiser has no authority to raise or lower taxes. Henriquez strives to help citizens of the county understand the rate at which a property is taxed is set by elected ofcials at the city and county levels, as well as by other taxing authorities.

For more information, visit www.vote4coachbob.com.

Don’t Let An INJURY SLOW

ER at Sun City Center, an extension of Manatee Memorial Hospital, is a full-service emergency department that provides care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

We are located at 16504 S. U.S. 301 in Wimauma, adjacent to Walmart®.

ER at Sun City Center features:

• Full-service laboratory and imaging services (X-ray, CT and ultrasound) (A physician order is required.)

• Care for all ages

• Access 24/7

• On-site physician 24/7

• Ten treatment areas, including seven exam rooms and three rapid medical exam spaces

• 10,884 square feet

HEAVEN’S BEST CARPET CLEANING GETS THE JOB DONE

When it comes to carpet, tile, grout and upholstery cleaning, those tasks are best left to the professionals, like Heaven’s Best Carpet Cleaning. The Brandon-area franchise recently celebrated 20 years of business serving Brandon, Sefner, FishHawk, Riverview, Sun City Center and the surrounding areas.

By Sharon Still

Cody Howard founded Heaven’s Best Carpet Cleaning in 1983 after searching out a cleaning method that would more efectively clean carpets without leaving them soaking wet for hours. Since then, the company has grown to hundreds of franchise locations across the country.

Heaven’s Best Carpet Cleaning owner Eric Swilley and his wife, Andrea, and their two children have been living in and providing carpet cleaning services to the Brandon area for more than 20 years.

Franchise owner Eric Swilley has been cleaning carpets since the age of 17 and came to know Heaven’s Best Carpet Cleaning through a family member who owned a franchise. Twenty years later, business is still going strong.

Residential as well as commercial services are available to help make furniture, tile, grout and upholstery look the best possible.

Swilley explained that Heaven’s Best’s method of low-moisture cleaning sets it apart from others who perform the same types of services.

“Our carpet cleaning process leaves

customers with carpets that are dry in one hour,” he stated, adding that there is no sticky residue left to attract dirt and all its products are safe for children and pets. He takes pride in making a diference in people’s lives and is passionate about providing top-quality results with a high level of professionalism.

“Seeing the before and after is the most rewarding part of the job,” Swilley commented.

One tip that Swilley ofered readers to help them keep floor and furniture surfaces in their best condition is to do weekly vacuuming and cleaning, coupled with a professional cleaning at least once a year.

An area native, Swilley is currently living in Valrico with his wife and two children, who attend local elementary and middle schools. He said they stay active in the local community by participating in and donating to the schools’ PTA organizations and their local church, Centerpoint Church in Valrico.

Mention the Osprey Observer for 10 percent of any service.

To learn more about Heaven’s Best Carpet Cleaning or to schedule an appointment, visit https://heavensbestcleaningfl. com/ or call 813-294-2392.

HCPS HOSTS ‘SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN’; YMCA LOCATIONS OFFER FREE PICKUP

Leaders with Hillsborough County Public Schools understand the importance of ensuring our students have access to nutritious meals while on summer break. Serving now and continuing through Thursday, July 25, students will have several opportunities to receive free meals as Hillsborough County Public Schools hosts its annual ‘Summer Food Service Program for Children.’

The program o f ers students breakfast and lunch for free at schools that provide summer learning programs. All children, 18 years and younger, can arrive at an open school or feeding site from Monday through Thursday — the breakfast and lunch mealtimes will be posted on the front o f ce window. The children do not have to be enrolled in a summer learning program to take advantage of the free meals.

“Many students rely on our schools for access to nutritious breakfast and lunch meals during the school year and that

Staf Report

need continues throughout the summer months. These well-balanced meals will nourish our students and eliminate food insecurity. Thank you to our dedicated Student Nutrition Services team who will feed thousands of children this summer,” said Superintendent Van Ayres.

This summer, there will be 144 summer feeding sites available.

This includes YMCA programs, such as YMCA Camp Cristina, the Spurlino Family Y and the North Brandon Family Y, as well as city and county parks and recreation sites.

Some other area locations are: Cimino Elementary School, Bloomingdale High School, Mulrennan Middle School, Navigator Academy of Leadership, Barrington Middle School, Spoto High School, Kingswood Elementary School and McLane Middle School.

To fi nd the complete list of summer break spot locations near you, visit www. summerbreakspot.org, call 2-1-1 or text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 304-304.

WAWA INVITES FAMILIES TO INDULGE IN SUMMER FUN AT BOK TOWER GARDENS

Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales invites the surrounding communities to participate in its garden summer fun hosted by Wawa. Admission into Bok Tower Gardens is free on the last Thursday and Friday of each month from now through August.

The Wawa corporation o f ers Wawa Summer Fun Days as part of its mission to be a great community partner. Wawa’s generosity covers the admissions bill for the designated summer days, keeping the Bok Tower Gardens in bloom.

Bok Tower Gardens hosts special summer activities for families to enjoy as they roam through the gardens. The Where’s Wally Seek and Find Scavenger Hunt is a unique way for families to explore while indulging in friendly competition.

There are 10 Wallys, Wawa’s goose mascot, hidden throughout the gardens. After fi nding each Wally, participants get a surprise reward from Wawa. The Bok Tower Gardens visitor center provides maps of the garden and instructions for participation.

Although there are plenty of free admission days left in the summer, Bok Tower Gardens is open for normal admission daily from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. The adult general admission is $20; child ad-

By Sara Kitchin

mission ranges from $10-$5, depending on age; and dogs are also welcome for $10.

This general admission still allows for families to explore natural beauty and listen to the chimes of the Singing Tower.

“We are in summer bloom,” said the director of business development and marketing, Erica Smith.

“What you’ll fi nd in our gardens is some beautiful displays of native, gorgeous Florida wildfl owers. So, I really encourage the plant lovers to enjoy a day surrounded by native plants.”

Bok Tower Gardens is a public garden with 50 acres of manicured cultured gardens that are surrounded by 200 acres of preserved land. This expanse allows for a getaway to reconnect with nature and gain knowledge on native Florida blooms.

Other activities include the Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden, the chimes of the famous Singing Tower and scheduled carillon concerts. Annual memberships to visit the gardens often for classes and activities are o f ered at Bok Tower Gardens and on its website.

Bok Tower Gardens is located at 1151 Tower Blvd. in Lake Wales. Visit Bok Tower Gardens’ website at https://boktowergardens.org/ for information on events and memberships.

Delight in the chimes of the Singing Tower, located in the center of the gardens.

Students can pick up free breakfast and lunch all summer at the YMCA Camp Cristina ‘Summer Food Service Program for Children’ feeding site.

Antionette Wilson and Eugene Morgan hand out almost 250 meals per day at YMCA Camp Cristina. Hillsborough County residents are welcome to pick up free breakfast and lunch daily all summer.

DIVE INTO ADVENTURE ISLAND, FEATURING ALL-NEW CASTAWAY FALLS, NEW WAVE POOL AND

Summer is here, and Adventure Island, Tampa’s island paradise, is the ultimate summer destination, featuring the recent debut of the all-new Castaway Falls, a new wave pool and the much-anticipated return of the fan-favorite Island Nights.

FAN-FAVORITE

ISLAND NIGHTS

Trilling water slides await, such as Rapids Racer, Wahoo Remix, Solar Vortex, Vanish Point, Caribbean Corkscrew, Colossal Curl, waterfalls, a 17,000-square-foot wave pool, a children’s zone and other family attractions, including the all-new Castaway Falls.

Guests of all ages are invited to dive into a world of excitement and relaxation with thrilling new attractions and unforgettable evening events that promise to make this summer the best one yet.

“Summer is an exciting time at Adventure Island,” said Philip Boykin, vice president of Adventure Island. “From our thrilling attractions to our serene tropical escapes, there are plenty of opportunities to choose your own adventure this summer at Adventure Island.”

Set within a tropical paradise, Castaway Falls invites guests of all ages to immerse themselves in a watery world of excitement. This exhilarating attraction is the centerpiece of Adventure Island’s comprehensive revitalization, which also includes recent additions such as Shaka-Laka Shores, Rapids Racer, Wahoo Remix slides and the transformed Captain Pete’s and Hang Ten Tiki Bar. These enhancements create a refreshed atmosphere, complete

Staf Report

with new lounging areas and cabanas, providing visitors with the ultimate tropical retreat.

Guests can splash all day and into the night with the return of Island Nights, featuring extended park hours until 8 p.m. every Friday in July. Guests can capture fun selfies with a 360-degree camera, enjoy lively parties with stilt performers and groove to the beats of dynamic DJs on select nights. This event ofers thrilling entertainment and a family-friendly dance party suitable for all ages.

An Adventure Island Annual Pass is the best way to enjoy an entire year of family fun, thrilling attractions and exciting seasonal events. Categorized in easy-to-use tiers, options provide guests with unlimited, year-round admission and unbeatable benefits, including free parking, in-park discounts, monthly rewards and payments starting as low as $10.50 per month.

Located across the street from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island is Tampa Bay’s premier water park, featuring a combination of exhilarating water slides and tropical, tranquil surroundings. Guests can dig their toes into the sand or relax in lounge chairs or a private cabana. For more information, visit https:// adventureisland.com/.

C

COOPER PRESSURE WASHING CONTINUES BOYLE FAMILY LEGACY

This year, Cooper Pressure Washing o f cially opened its doors, carrying forward a family tradition of exceptional service and quality. This family-owned and operated business is a continuation of Boyle Pressure Washing and Screen Repair, a well-regarded business founded and operated by Thomas Boyle for the past 22 years. The legacy has now been passed down to his grandson, Cooper DeLallo, who has diligently worked under his grandfather’s guidance for the last six years.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

it clean will improve your home’s curb appeal and prolong the life of your home’s exterior.”

Cooper Pressure Washing is committed to o f ering the highest quality job at a fair price, which is refl ected in ev-

ery project it undertakes. The company strives to deliver top-notch service that meets and exceeds client expectations.

Cooper Pressure Washing serves the communities of FishHawk, Brandon, Riverview, Valrico, Plant City and the surrounding areas. It o f ers a comprehensive range of services to meet the diverse needs of its clients. From houses, driveways and sidewalks to cages, decks and lanais, Cooper Pressure Washing cleans with the highest quality standards. Other services include screen repairs as well as maintaining pools and gutters, preventing potential damage.

“Mold and mildew is a defi nite threat, and when it is left unattended it can cause wear and tear on your home and pool cage fi nishes,” said DeLallo, owner of Cooper Pressure Washing. “Keeping

“I am very grateful to have this opportunity. It’s not every day you get to continue your grandfather’s business that he built from the ground up,” said DeLallo. “It makes me very proud to be able to follow in his footsteps and continue the quality work he has done for the past 22 years.”

Customers can receive a free estimate and assessment for all pressure washing and screen repair needs.

Cooper Pressure Washing is dedicated to continuing the tradition of excellence established by Boyle. With a focus on quality, integrity and customer satisfaction, his aim is to be a go-to solution for all pressure washing and screen repair needs in the area.

For more information or to inquire about services, please call or text DeLallo at 813-892-5283.

ENROLL TODAY!

CFDA offers instruction for ages 2 - 18 in various genres. We have a place for dancers of any level of ability from beginner to advanced. CFDA is home to an award-winning competition team, but also offers recreational classes.

Cooper DeLallo, owner of Cooper Pressure Washing, continues the family tradition of quality service, ofering comprehensive pressure washing and screen repair.

Grace Notes Radical Generosity

My friend and pickleball buddy Jim and I were sidelined, waiting on a pickleball court to be vacated. The topic of me teaching piano came up and I asked him if he played any instruments.

“Oh, yes. I play guitar,” he said. “Or at least I used to. In my younger days, it was my life’s goal to own a Martin guitar.”

By Debora Coty

“Was it as wonderful as you anticipated?” I asked.

“Definitely. I saved my money for many years before I could finally aford one in my 50s. It was the most beautiful guitar I’d ever seen.”

“Do you still have it?”

Jim paused and suddenly found his shoes interesting. “No,” he said, his voice softened.

“What happened to it?” I couldn’t help my curiosity at the way he seemed to retreat from the conversation. Like he wasn’t sure if he should say more.

“Well,” he hesitated. “I only played it a couple times.”

“What?” I couldn’t hide my astonishment. “Why?”

Jim appeared to come to a decision

about his answer. I suspect he figured I’d think he was crazy if he told me the truth.

“The second time I played it in church, I felt God telling me to give it to a specific young man in the audience. I resisted the idea, but finally bought a guitar shipping box and sent it to him. Boy, was he surprised.”

I could hardly believe my ears. Who does this? I pondered this concept of radical generosity for a long moment before asking Jim, “Did you regret it?”

“Yeah, I regretted it,” Jim admitted honestly. “But I knew I had to do it. God wanted to bless him with it. Always thought I’d buy another one someday. But I never did.”

Jim is now in his 70s.

I wish I had the means to buy him a Martin guitar. But I suspect Papa God will have a whole room of his mansion in heaven stocked with them.

“Live generously,” (Matthew 5:42 MSG). Who in your life would you label as radically generous? Have you ever done anything crazy generous like that yourself? How do you think Yahweh would view it?

Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com.

ALL WE NEED IS AN OUTLINE

“Religion is only a shadow of what is coming — the body that cast the shadow is Christ,” (Colossians 2:17).

Kudos to our son-in-law, Craig, for his imaginative gift to our daughter, Naomi: a cutout featuring our beautiful grandchildren.

I’ll be the fi rst to say “you can’t beat the originals”; our Orlando grands are (as all grandparents say) the most beautiful children in the world. But this silhouette stopped me in my tracks. What is it about the simple form that grabs me so strongly?

I think it’s because all we need is an outline, or a clue, and our deeper consciousness fi lls in the remainder of the details.

This is why, when I wrote profi le pieces for the Tribune, my subjects always said, “You didn’t miss a thing” or “You got it so right, there wasn’t anything else you could have written.”

Of course I left out tons of stu f . The key is to recognize — like the line of a forehead or the angle of a nose on a profi le — what illuminates the essential story.

My interviews would typically generate 3,000 words of copy. But if you cut the profi le properly, then the mind — the soul — fi lls in the rest of the details and you have a complete picture.

A few years ago, I fl ew to England

for my cousin Linda’s funeral. Her brother, Peter, was told to limit her eulogy to seven minutes or less. “That’s impossible,” he said.

“Not at all,” I counseled. “You have more than enough time. Your task is to draw the outline, then everyone listening will fi ll in the shading and the details. They will say you didn’t miss a thing.”

So, when I see the silhouette of my grandchildren, I get the whole picture. Plus the noise, and the motion, and the hugs, and the fun, and the tears, and the silliness, and the full-on unfi ltered life that hits you head-on like a college football team bursting through the banner at the start of the game.

Nice one, Craig. It really is all there; you didn’t miss a thing.

— DEREK

Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, Te United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, Te Christian Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul and many other publications. Read Derek Maul’s daily blog posts at www.derekmaul.wordpress.com.

Opening Fall 2024

Whether

GFWC BRANDON SERVICE LEAGUE TO HOST ‘INTRODUCTION TO BRANDON SERVICE LEAGUE’

The GFWC Brandon Service League will hold an event called ‘Introduction To Brandon Service League’ on Sunday, July 28, from 3-5 p.m. The event will be held at the GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club, located at 129 N. Moon Ave. in Brandon. All women interested in service to our community are welcome. The Brandon Service League will have refreshments and a social hour in addition to a short presentation.

Members of the GFWC Brandon Service League invite you to an event on Sunday, July 28, from 3-5 p.m. Attend to learn all about the club, fnd out how you can become a member, support the community, fnd fellowship with like-minded women and have some fun too.

Joanne Baxter, who became co-president of the GFWC Brandon Service League in January, said, “We are hosting this event to bring awareness to women in our community of our existence, our purpose, our programs and to generate membership. At this event, we will have a video presentation running of who GFWC is (the General Federation of Women’s Clubs), of whom we are a part. We will also have a presentation/information on the charities that we support, the fundraisers that we do and the programs that we are in the process of reviving.”

Each year, the Brandon Service League contributes to three charities, including New Horizon Group Home, Outreach Free Clinic and Resource Center, and Hope for Her. It also contributes money to the art

By Kathy L. Collins

department of six local high schools and gives two scholarships.

The club is also reviving two events which it has not been able to hold for several years. The first is the Alice Storms Very Special Arts Festival, which is a field trip for special needs preschoolers and kindergarteners from Southeastern Hillsborough County. This event gives children a fun day of activities, including face painting, a magician show, multiple crafts and more. This event has been held yearly for nearly 30 years.

The second event is a judged high school art show that will be held in December in conjunction with New Hope Church’s tree lighting and jazz concert. There will be monetary prizes in a multitude of categories for the art projects. This is open to Hillsborough County high school students through the art department.

Baxter said, “My goal is to increase membership and to successfully revive the judged art show and the Very Special Arts event.”

For information on becoming a member of the GFWC Brandon Service League, please visit www.gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org.

BLOOMINGDALE BASEBALL WINS REGIONALS FOR THE THIRD TIME

The Bloomingdale High School boys’ baseball team won their third regional title since 2014, and the first since they won the state championship in 2021. The team, which finished 19-11, had their ups and downs during the season, but they made a run in the regional tournament after losing in the district championship to Palmetto High School 4-2.

The Bulls were awarded an at-large bid for the regional tournament and avenged their loss to Palmetto in the first round, beating them 13-0. They went on to beat East Lake and Sickles high schools in route to another state tournament appearance, in which they lost to Buchholz High School in the state semifinal.

Head coach Kris Wilken, who was coaching in his 17th season, said that his team was unique in the fact that they didn’t have a particular facet of the game that they relied heavily on; they were able to win in many di f erent ways. He said that the players got hot in a 10day stretch during regionals and played the most complete three games they had all season long.

By Nick Nahas

“The three regional games were extremely special,” said Wilken. “We weren’t sure where we stood when we went into the district tournament. We felt like we put ourselves in a bad position and had to win the district tournament in

order to move on. I think when we lost the district championship game, I could see the look on the seniors’ faces and they thought it was over, that we were done and their high school careers were over. The selection show came out and we were a five seed, and they had a rejuvenation like ‘we don’t want that feeling of finality again.’”

The team heavily leaned on senior outfielder Cooper Hinson’s bat and starting pitcher Hayden Porter’s arm. Junior catcher Vincent Dinzeo Jr. was a big leader for the Bulls. Hinson, a University of Marshall signee and Wade Boggs Athletic Achievement Award recipient, led the team in hitting with a .448 average, with two home runs, 19 RBIs and 39 hits. Porter, a Bell Creek High School transfer, led the pitching sta f with a 6-4 record, 66 strikeouts and a 1.55 ERA. He wasn’t able to pitch in the state tournament because of pitch-limit rules.

Bloomingdale will have to replace 10 seniors, but it will have 25 players returning to the program including Porter.

FINANCIAL FOCUS

TALK TO YOUR FAMILY ABOUT WEALTH TRANSFER

Are you anticipating an inheritance someday? If so, you may want to discuss it with your parents or other family members who may be leaving you the assets — because early, open communication will beneft everyone involved.

However, many people are reluctant to have these conversations. More than a third of Americans do not plan on discussing a transfer of wealth with their families, according to a recent study by Edward Jones in partnership with NEXT 360 Partners and Morning Consult. And the same study found that only about a quarter of Americans have actually discussed generational wealth transfer with their families.

Perhaps this low level of communication is not surprising — clearly, talking about wealth transfer and estate plans can be emotional. But having these discussions is important, for several reasons:

• Strengthening family bonds – Generational wealth transfer shouldn’t be seen simply as a transactional event. By discussing your parents’ plans and wishes, and your own expectations, you can build a sense of unity and shared purpose. And you can develop a common philosophy about how your family’s legacy goals will be carried forward through the succeeding generations.

• Avoiding unpleasant surprises – If you or other family members are expecting a certain inheritance and things turn out diferently, disappointment and bad feelings may occur. But this can be avoided by having a discussion beforehand that clearly outlines your parents’ intentions. You still may not agree with them, but at least you’ll know what to expect — and you won’t make the mistake of acting in advance on any assumptions about what you’ll inherit.

• Developing appropriate strategies – Passing on wealth to a new generation as part of an overall estate

plan can be more complex than you might think. Are your parents using tax-smart strategies? Would they beneft from establishing a living trust? Are the benefciary designations on their retirement accounts and life insurance policies accurate and up to date? If you suspect your parents may not have properly addressed these issues, you may want to bring up the benefts of working with an estate-planning attorney and a tax advisor.

• Protecting against incapacitation – Many people go through their senior years with few, if any, physical or mental impairments. But there are no guarantees. If one or both of your parents were to become incapacitated and unable to handle their fnancial afairs, it could cause serious problems with their wealth transfer and estate-planning goals. But if you can discuss your parents’ plans with them while they are healthy and alert, you can encourage them to take the proper steps, such as reviewing outdated estate-planning documents and designating you or another family member as power of attorney to make health care and fnancial decisions on their behalf should they become incapacitated.

While the benefts of having wealth-transfer and estate-planning discussions are clear, starting the conversations can be tricky. You need to show that you want to initiate these talks because you’re concerned that proper plans need to be in place and understood by everyone involved. If you have a good relationship with your parents, you should be able to start these conversations, but you’ll still need to be sensitive when bringing up the subject.

One fnal word: Estate plans can take some time to develop — so, the sooner you have these discussions, the better.

Terry Vassalotti and Michelle Colesanti in the capital city of Malta, Valletta.

Te Bloomingdale High School boys’ baseball team won their third regional title since 2014, and the frst since they won the state championship in 2021.

Bloomingdale High School star outfielder Cooper Hinson had a season for the ages, leading his team to an unexpected run to states. He added another notch to his belt, winning the 18th annual Wade Boggs Athletic Achievement Award this June.

“I am super appreciative and blessed to be put in a position to win the award, and I couldn’t be more grateful to witness my hard work paying of,” said Hinson.

The Wade Boggs Athletic Achievement Award honors a high school baseball player or team in Hillsborough County who displays outstanding athletic, scholastic and community achievements.

“Winning the highly touted Wade Boggs Award is huge for me, but I wouldn’t have been able to do it without God, my parents, my teammates, coach Wilken and the coaching staf always having my back and pushing me to be my best,” said Hinson.

The Marshall University signee is a twotime Perfect Game High School All-Amer-

By Nick Nahas

ican and a twotime All-Western Conference First Team selection.

The outfielder led the Bulls in hitting with a .448 average, with two home runs and 19 RBIs. He was a key contributor for Bloomingdale, leading his team to their first state final four appearance since 2021, when they won the state championship.

Hinson will have a chance to start for the Marshall baseball team next season on a scholarship. He will pursue a law degree.

The standout student had a 5.84 GPA, was a four-year member of the National Honor Society and was a Bloomingdale Booster Scholarship Athlete Award recipient. He’s volunteered with Best Buddies and Meals on Wheels and is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He also co-founded the Bloomingdale Basketball and Wife Ball leagues for students.

The baseball protégé will never forget his time at Bloomingdale with his friends, and especially the ‘dark horse’ run to states.

“I was blessed to make a run with my best friends all the way to Fort Myers, and the moments and memories made along the way are something I wouldn’t trade for the world,” said Hinson. “That Bloomingdale team will forever hold a place in my heart.”

Te Wade Boggs Athletic Achievement Award honors a high school baseball player or team in Hillsborough County who displays outstanding athletic, scholastic and community achievements.

Turning personal passion into a force for change, Experienced Autism Alliance strives to support families and individuals with autism.

Experienced Autism Alliance was founded in 2019 by Tanya Hines, James Hines and Amanda Grozdanic. As two parents of a child with autism and an occupational therapist, respectfully, the trio recognized a significant lack of resources for families. They aimed to leverage their experiences to provide support and assistance to families in the autism community.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

The organization was created in order to assist, empower and support families and individuals with children and adults with autism. Experienced Autism Alliance ofers resources and educational opportunities with the goal of helping the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

One of the ways Experienced Autism Alliance has helped the community is through the SpectrumSqueeze Lemonade Stand that started in October 2023. The lemonade stand is a social program designed to provide meaningful employment opportunities and job training. It works to raise money for Experienced Autism Alliance’s programs and gives individuals with autism a chance to practice social skills and responsibility.

“I am thankful for the chance to work with SpectrumSqueeze and I’m getting

more confidence while working at the register,” said Crystal M., lemonade specialist for SpectrumSqueeze.

Key aspects of the SpectrumSqueeze program include inclusivity, job training, community engagement, self-esteem and self-confidence, sustainability and autism awareness. Families of those with autism appreciate this opportunity for their loved ones not only because it helps them practice new skills but also because of the support and encouragement that the program gives.

“I am proud of my daughter’s first job and love the support and compassion of the lemonade stand,” said Ana Vargas, board member and autism mom.

The SpectrumSqueeze can be found at Experienced Autism Alliance’s annual Inclusive Trunk or Treat and many other community events throughout the year with freshly squeezed, delicious lemonade. Experienced Autism Alliance works yearround to provide resources, including articles and books, events, training opportunities and information on where to find more support in the community that will help families and individuals with autism with skill building and more.

For more information, please email info@autismalliancefl.org, contact 813324-5352 or visit the website for the organization at https://autismalliancefl.org/.

Tose involved in SpectrumSqueeze get to meet new people, practice

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS HONORED WITH SCHOLARSHIPS FROM BRANDON HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL STAFF

High School seniors from across Hillsborough County applied for six scholarships, which included five HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Awards and the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and Physicians Healthcare Scholars Award.

Students from about 30 public and private high schools and homeschooled students were considered, and it was a highly competitive group of candidates.

“These students will be caring for the patients of tomorrow. They value empathy and care, which aligns with HCA Florida Healthcare and our medical staf ’s commitment to excellence in patient care. It is important to support their dreams and ease their financial burden of education. It is with that goal that HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and the medical staf collaborated in sponsoring these scholarships. We look forward to welcoming them to the medical world and future partnerships with HCA,” said Dr. Anjan Shah, orthopedic surgeon at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital.

The inaugural HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and Physicians Healthcare Scholars Award was a highly competitive $20,000 scholarship, and the students were required to have plans to attend the University of South Florida to be eligible. This scholar-

honor societies and athletics. She’s a leader in many of those organizations and has committed to making a diference in the community through volunteerism.

The HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award was given to five students who were exceptional in both academics and extracurriculars. The students were also required to have a desire to pursue a career in healthcare. They were each awarded $1,000.

Erin Evans (Middleton High School), Devin Blunt (Strawberry Crest High School), Javier Landa Pulido (Middleton High School), Kayla Dinh (Sumner High School) and Keira Kurto (Bloomingdale High School) were all awarded the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award by Brandon Hospital leadership team members at their high school award ceremonies.

The high school seniors who were awarded these scholarships have qualities that align with the values of HCA Healthcare, of which, according to its website: “Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.”

The hospital is located at 119 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, visit www.hcafloridabrandonhospital.com.

ship was jointly funded by HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and the medical staf The scholarship winner was Middleton

High School senior Suchi Patel. Patel stood out due to her involvement in student government and various clubs,

Middleton High School senior Suchi Patel was awarded the inaugural HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and Physicians Healthcare Scholars Award.

Bloomingdale High School senior Keira Kurto was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

Strawberry Crest High School senior Devin Blunt was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

Sumner High School senior Kayla Dinh was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

Middleton High School senior Erin Evans was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

Middleton High School senior Javier Landa Pulido was one of the recipients of the HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Healthcare Achievement Award.

FISHHAWK WOLVERINES 8U BOAST SUCCESSFUL SEASON OF TEAMWORK AND POSITIVITY

The FishHawk Wolverines 8U squad had an outstanding season, boasting the most successful season in FishHawk Youth Baseball history.

The Wolverines went 38-7 this season, winning eight of their 10 tournaments. The team also came in second and third in the two tournaments they didn’t win.

Manager Ricky Anderson, who just completed his fourth season with the team, credited the successful season to “committed coaches, committed parents [and] committed kids.”

“The kids never gave up,” he said. “The kids always fought hard, always practiced hard, never gave up.”

Anderson said the players always gave 110 percent and were supported by the well-rounded sta f and parents.

Anderson also had a successful season with the team, winning his 100th game. He finished the season with 110 total wins, the first in program history.

Of the 11 local FishHawk players on the team, five have played together since the 2022 6U All-star team.

However, Anderson said the players have all played together before.

“It really helped the way they bonded, the way they gelled, the way they had each other’s backs,” he said.

By Lily Belcher

Most of the young athletes on the Wolverine’s team have played together since they were in kindergarten.

According to Anderson, there wasn’t one particular standout player throughout the season. Instead, each athlete stepped up to the plate for their chance to shine, leading a game or a single inning as that moment’s team leader.

“Any given weekend, one kid would step up. … There was never a ‘me’ involved. … It was a full team e f ort,” Anderson said.

He said the key to building this teamwork-centered group was a strong coaching sta f dedicated to mentoring the young athletes. He also gave credit back to the parents.

“The parents were always supportive of anything we did,” he said. “So, between coaches and parents, it was just start with them and influence kids and keep them positive.”

Anderson said the parents and coaches worked together to motivate the kids, even when they were down. He also said a high-energy pregame speech was key to the positive atmosphere he fostered.

For information on the Wolverines or FishHawk Youth Baseball, visit https:// fishhawkbaseball.sportngin.com/.

Photo courtesy of Lindsey Vance Photography.

Te FishHawk Wolverines 8U squad won eight of the 10 tournaments they entered and amassed quite a collection of rings to show for it.

Bayview Graphix Is Dedicated To Helping Your Business Succeed

Bayview Graphix is a full-service marketing company dedicated to helping your business succeed. Whether you need assistance with your website, search engine optimization or social media management, it has you covered. Bayview Graphix’s expertise also extends beyond the digital realm, o f ering high-quality print materials, including business cards, full-color banners, eye-catching yard signs and more.

Owner Jason Jones said, “As a locally owned business, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized service tailored to your unique needs.”

Visit its website at https://bayviewgraphix.com/ or call 813-588-3513 for more information.

JF Kicks Welcomes New Chef And Menu

JF Kicks has been a Valrico staple since 2007, and it has slowly transformed from a local bar that serves food into a hometown neighborhood meeting place where you can eat great American cuisine. Chef Guillermo Becker recently took over the kitchen and brought with him an extensive culinary background and some fresh ideas on some old staples, along with a variety of tasty new

dishes. Originally from Los Angeles, California, Becker strives for perfection with his knowledge of Mexican and Cuban fusion cuisine.

JF Kicks is located at 3345

Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Visit its website at https://jfkicksrestaurant.com/ to view its new menu.

Halo Head Spa Focuses On Scalp Health And Relaxation

30 years in business. MORSECOM champions integrating best-in-class solutions that are focused on people fi rst. From desktop services to AI-backed security solutions, it prides itself on its industry-recognized experts providing true understanding of clients’ business and technical requirements.

As stated on its website, MORSECOM believes that through “strengthening connections, optimizing performance and helping people in businesses of all sizes adapt and enhance modern workforces, we share the unlimited possibilities of the connected world.”

Halo Head Spa specializes in providing a luxurious and rejuvenating experience focused on scalp health and relaxation. Its unique treatments combine traditional techniques with modern innovations to relieve stress, promote hair growth and enhance overall well-being. From personalized scalp massages to soothing aromatherapy, every visit is a sanctuary for your mind and body. Whether you are looking to unwind, rejuvenate or simply indulge, Halo Head Spa o f ers a blissful escape from everyday stresses. Halo Head Spa is located at 405 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Visit its website at https://thehaloheadspa.com/ or call 813330-7546 for more information on its services.

MORSECOM Believes In Technology Tat Serves People

As of 2024, MORSECOM is celebrating

Visit its website at www.morsecom.com or call 321-479-7823 for additional information.

Yard Guards On Doody Celebrates 21 Years As Local Business

When Cheresee Rehart started Yard Guards On Doody in June 2003, no service like hers existed in our area. Yard Guards On Doody comes to residential yards, places of business, dog waste stations,

commercial properties and anywhere else dog poop needs to be removed. Its newest service, Wysiwash, is a sanitizing and deodorizing product which can be applied to lawns, artificial turfs, pool decks, stables, etc. Services can be carried out weekly, biweekly, twice weekly or as a one time as needed visit. To learn more, visit www. ru f job.com or call 813-657-9797.

Jacob James Lawn Care Service

Jacob James Lawn Care Service can take care of all your lawn care needs. Services available include lawn maintenance, hedge trimming, mulching, leaf removal, general yard clean up and more. For a free quote, please call 813-400-8880.

JF Kicks’ new chef, Guillermo Becker, brings a variety of tasty new dishes to its menu.

Coyotes Youth Lacrosse is a year-round developmental club helping local boys and girls in kindergarten through eighth grade

find their passion for lacrosse.

Led by new club President Mark Derby, Coyotes Lacrosse fosters a fun, inclusive environment for athletes to learn key skills in the game. Derby and his team have brought in former high school lacrosse players and dedicated coaches to lead the league.

Derby said the club is going through a “renewed efort to introduce the game of lacrosse to more of our youth in the community and to also provide a club with multiple developmental options for those that are interested in playing the game.”

This renewed efort to connect with players will allow the club to reach more athletes and expand the love of lacrosse to a wider group.

The club has both girl and boy leagues that prioritize teamwork and sportsmanship through competitive games at the FishHawk Sports Complex.

Derby also encourages local athletes to play multiple sports and try out lacrosse even if they don’t have any experience.

Additionally, Derby has made learning about the club even easier with an informa-

By Lily Belcher

tional website, including an extensive activities calendar and reasons for why playing lacrosse is so important.

“We are committed to challenging our players to develop and grow not only as players but as well-rounded, strong-willed individuals,” the website reads. “We understand the impact coaches have on athletes, and we take our responsibility very seriously to help guide these young athletes to grow through the exciting sport of lacrosse.”

Coyotes Lacrosse has camps and clinics as well, focusing on new techniques and defining skills with the guidance of seasoned players. The club ofers speed and agility training, pickup lacrosse games and a free ‘try lacrosse’ clinic to bring new players into the game.

“One of our missions is to grow the game,” Derby said.

Coyotes Youth Lacrosse is working on bringing lacrosse to the curriculums of local schools to encourage young players to join the club’s beginner clinic.

For more information, follow the club on Instagram and Facebook @coyotesyouthlacrosse. To see the activities calendar and learn more about what is ofered, visit www. coyotesyouthlacrosse.org.

Guest Appearances Include:

• Richard Dreyfus

• Jeffrey Kramer

• Gigi Vorgan

• Gary Springer

Sharks4Kids • ZooTampa • Mote Marine Aquarium and Laboratory

Coyotes Youth Lacrosse ofers competitive games for both boys and girls.