Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop October 2023

Brandon/Winthrop

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October 2023

Volume 18, Issue 10

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CELEBRATING 21 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS

ANNUAL HARVEST QUEEN PAGEANT 52ND ANNUAL NOVEMBERFEST AT SUPPORTS COMFORT FOR A CAUSE NATIVITY CATHOLIC WILL FEATURE

By Lily Belcher RIDES, FOOD, GAMES AND TRIVIA

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The 22nd anThis year, the nual Harvest pageant hosted Queen Pageant 35 contestants collected funds who helped and blankets to raise funds for support Comfleece blanfort for a Cause kets for Florida in its largest Cancer Center pageant and chemotheracrowned the py patients. At Senior and Juthe pageant, nior Harvest over 100 fleece Lylah Linares, Claire Thomas, Cameron Ipock and Queens in Octo- Jillian Towe were grateful for the opportunity to support blankets were Comfort for a Cause through the 22nnd annual Harvest collected ber. in Queen Pageant.

Newsome exchange for High School sefree admission to nior Cameron Ipthe Hillsborough ock was crowned County Fair.

Senior Harvest The Harvest Queen. Ipock is Queen Pageant vice president of has partnered the Splash Club with Comfort and involved in for a Cause since her school’s FFA 2018 to honor forchapter and track mer Junior Harteam.

Claire Thomas and Cameron Ipock were crowned vest Queen Taryn “Sadly, I have the Junior and Senior Harvest Queens in the Hills- Storter Couch’s had several mem- borough County Fair’s Harvest Queen Pageant. father. bers of my family pass away from cancer, First maids Jillian Towe and Lylah Limost recently my grandmother. My hope nares said Comfort for a Cause is a way is that our blanket outreach, Comfort for for them to give back to the community a Cause, will provide a small amount of and see the impact the donations and voljoy and warmth on what may be a very unteer work has on the lives of patients. difficult treatment day,” Ipock said.

The nonprofit contest also raised monSeffner Christian Academy freshman ey to support the program and offer Claire Thomas was crowned Junior Har- scholarships to the queens. Ipock earned vest Queen. She is involved in competi- a $1,500 scholarship and Thomas earned tive dance, volleyball and the National a $750 scholarship after being crowned Junior Beta Club at Seffner Christian. at the pageant. The funds for the schol“Everyone has a story, and Comfort arships and Comfort for a Cause were for a Cause allows people to share in raised through ticket prices and sponthat story. … It’s not only about donating sors. blankets; it’s about getting to have conFor more information about the Harversations with the people that we meet vest Queen Pageant and its partnership and building relationships with them. I with Comfort for a Cause, visit https:// love that I get to have a small part on a hillsboroughcountyfair.com/pageant/ or page in their story,” Thomas said. call 813-737-FAIR (3247).

Pepin Academies is hosting two trunk-or-treats this month for its students and their families on Friday, October 27, 4-6 p.m., at Pepin’s Tampa campus (3916 E. Hillsborough Ave.) and on Saturday, October 28, 4-6:30 p.m., at its Riverview campus (9304 Camden Field Pkwy.). Come enjoy the fun of treats, costumes, games, car show, Halloween decorations and a police car or two so its students can enjoy the lights and sirens. To learn more about Pepin Academies, visit www.pepinacademies.com.

By Lily Belcher

Nativity Catholic Church will host its 52nd annual Novemberfest from Thursday through Sunday, November 16 through 19, featuring a selection of food, rides and games for families.

“It’s family.

It’s food. It’s fun rides. It’s seeing people from the community, people you went to high school with, people you go to church with, people you work with.

It’s Brandon,” said Abby Watts, entertainment co-chair. “On one hand, there’s nothing new. But people are always changing, and new people are coming in, and that’s kind of the beauty of it.”

This year’s entertainment lineup will feature Nativity alums, community performances and professional-level trivia for the first time under the big tent.

Aside from a field filled with rides and games for carnival lovers, the big tent will feature live music every night, broadcast sports and craft beers.

Jesuit High School student and Nativity graduate Carlos Lamoutte and his band will perform Sunday night to close out the weekend of entertainment.

Novemberfest is made possible each year with the help of a dedicated and hardworking volunteer staff. It takes around 9,000 volunteer hours to organize and manage Novemberfest every year.

“It’s a big undertaking, but I think everybody pulls together because it’s important to the school, it’s important to the church and I think it’s important for any community,” Watts said.

Tickets are available online, but Watts

said, “The best way to purchase tickets is through one of the students at the school because they have class competitions, and they can earn wristbands for themselves and things like that. It’s just a great way to support the kids as well as support the event.” Single-day ride armbands will cost $19 if purchased in advance or $25 at the event.

Guests can purchase $10 worth of food tickets for just $9 ahead of the event. Armband and ticket presales begin Friday, October 6 and end Sunday, November 12.

“To me, this is how you give back. This is how you are part of the greater community. … For 52 years, it’s been this hometown event. I think … Brandon’s such a special community, and Novemberfest is just a tiny snapshot of what makes Brandon so great,” Watts said.

Novemberfest will be hosted at 705 E Brandon Blvd., on the corner of Bryan Road and U.S. Highway 60, on the Nativity Catholic School and Church campus. www.nativitycatholicchurch.org/novemberfest or email nfestentertainment@ gmail.com.

IN THIS ISSUE: TURKEY TROT ......................................PG 3 HOPE FOR HER FOOD DRIVE........PG 5 EMPTY BOWLS .................................PG 11 EYE ON BUSINESS................PGS 25-26 FOX SQUIRREL CORN MAZE.....PG 28

Page 2

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

October 2023

15TH ANNUAL FISHHAWK

TURKEY TROT TO SUPPORT SEEDS OF HOPE FOOD BANK

By Linda Chion

Thousands of realize exists, people are exin the capacity pected to start that it does.”

Th a n k s g i v i n g Seeds of Day at the FishHope distribHawk Turkey utes 300 boxTrot, held anes of food evnually to assist ery Thursday Seeds of Hope on-site at the and its nonPresbyteriThe turkey mascot, pictured in a former race, is a staple profit mission an Church of attraction at the annual FishHawk Turkey Trot benefiting to nourish hope BloomingdaSeeds of Hope. through food le, located at distributions and community 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. service. This year marks the Through its Backpack of 15th annual FishHawk Turkey Hope program, operating Trot. this year out of Barrington Seeds of Hope traces its Middle School, Seeds of roots to Leda Eaton and her Hope distributes about 150 kids, who as Newsome High bags of food weekly to enSchool runners earned comsure students in need and munity service hours by staging a Thanks- their families have enough food to eat over giving Day race. The event has grown to the weekend. Moreover, Seeds of Hope attract more than 2,000 people who com- employs a mobile pantry when specific mit to race, walk and volunteer in support needs arise. of Seeds of Hope, which students help run Supporting it all is the annual FishHawk under the mentorship of adult leaders.

Turkey Trot, for which registration and One such leader is Bronwyn Fowler, who sponsorship inquiries now are being acfor three years served as a volunteer in cepted. The deadline for early-bird pricing support of her children and their mission to of the 5K and 10K timed races, the 5K unearn community service through Seeds of timed race, the 1-mile fun run and the 250Hope. Fowler has since taken over admin- yard mini run (for kids, and kids at heart) is istrative duties for Seeds of Hope, founded Friday, November 17. Race day registration, in 2009. at a higher cost, is set to begin at 6:30 a.m.

Working with students from area Thursday, November 23, in the Publix parkschools, “I like that from the kids’ perspec- ing lot at 5642 FishHawk Crossing Blvd. tive, Seeds of Hope empowers kids to get To register, and for more on race parinvolved, gives them leadership roles and ticulars, sponsorships, Seeds of Hope and shows them a real need that’s happening in collection, food drive and volunteer opportheir own community,” Fowler said. “We’re tunities, visit www.sohopefl.org/2023-turmeeting a need that sometimes we don’t key-trot-run.

Page 3

NEW HORIZONS GROUP HOME HOSTS 28TH ANNUAL BARBECUE AND SILENT AUCTION FUNDRAISER

By Libby Hopkins In 1992, several Sponsorships are parents, teachers and still being accepted for friends of members of the upcoming barbethe Special Ministries cue. “We are still lookDepartment at First ing for sponsors, with Baptist Church of Bransix levels going from don identified a need $250 to $10,000,” for long-term living fa- On Saturday, November 18, it will be host- Watkins said. “We cilities for developmen- ing its 28th annual Barbecue and Silent would appreciate any tally disabled men and Auction Fundraiser. The barbecue will be amount that someone women. A committee held at Central Baptist Church and Chris- would like to donate. tian School, located at 402 E. Windhorst was formed to investiEach sponsorship will Rd. in Brandon, from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. gate the requirements be acknowledged to undertake this task. Out of this group, at the event on a list at the barbecue and New Horizons Group Homes Inc. was born. also on the bid sheets, as well as in the next The mission of New Horizons Group Homes newsletter.”

Inc. is to provide a family-oriented Christian Watkins and the staff at New Horizons group home living environment supporting Group Home hope that the community will adults with disabilities to achieve their high- come out and show their support for this est potential for independence through a year’s barbecue. “I love seeing the residents variety of services emphasizing faith, family, interact with everyone at the event,” Watchoice, independence, dignity and respect. kins said. “Our residents are capable of so On Saturday, November 18, it will be much and have a great sense of indepenhosting its 28th annual Barbecue and Silent dence while having 24/7 supervision. Some Auction Fundraiser. The barbecue will be of them work out in the community, while held at Central Baptist Church and Christian others go to day programs. They are proSchool, located at 402 E. Windhorst Rd. in ductive members of our community and are Brandon, from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tickets encouraged to reach their full potential and to the barbecue cost $20 and can be pur- become all that God created them to be. chases at the New Horizons Group Home’s Because we are a faith-based nonprofit, we office. “This is our major fundraiser of the always appreciate any help that we receive year, and we always look forward to getting from the community. I’d especially like to together with friends that we don’t see of- thank all of the businesses who donate items ten enough,” said Brenda Watkins of New for our silent auction. We are blessed to live Horizons Group Home. “The event will be in such a supportive community.” catered by BubbaQue’s. Entertainment will If you would like to learn more about New be provided by Dennis Lee and his band and Horizons Group Home or be a part of its upStephanie Ann playing her amazing strad- coming fundraiser, you can visit its website a-fiddle. We have hoping to realize at least at www.newhorizonshomes.org or call 813$20,000 to be used for much-needed re- 571-2690. New Horizons Group Home is lopairs and upgrades.” cated at 109 E. Clay Ave. in Brandon.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

SCHOLARSHIP OPENS NEW HCA FLORIDA BRANDON HOSPITAL RANKS NINTH IN WORLDWIDE DOORS FOR JOB SEEKERS READ-A-THON FOR NICU BABIES

By Brad Stager

Learning a new skill ed by an Open Door that is in demand by Scholarship is the employers is one way instruction received to get ahead, and it as a clinical medical is made easier by a assistant student.

Florida Department of The scholarship has Education scholarship a value of $3,299 and program that is availtrains students to able at Hillsborough Hillsborough Community College’s Bran- perform basic mediCommunity College. don campus offers a variety of educational cal practice functions Students who comsuch as preparing opportunities. plete a course of inpatients to be examstruction through the ined or receive treatOpen Door Scholarments. ship Program can gain Instruction is procertification of their vided by the Institute skills in fields such as information tech- for Corporate and Continuing Education, nology and health care. The scholarships which works with local industry and edare funded through the Department of ucation leaders to develop programs to Education and are intended to enable train a workforce that can support the students to complete short courses that Tampa Bay area’s growing economy and lead to obtaining credentials required for population. some jobs. The goal is to develop skills in The institute is celebrating its 25th workers that can provide a prosperous year of providing workforce training, and future for them while fulfilling the needs its director, Ryan Buckthorpe, said the of businesses for trained employees. challenges of creating training programs The scholarships cover 100 percent that meet the needs of businesses and of costs associated with credentialing workers are exciting. courses, with the objective being to ulti“When local businesses have told us mately find employment in a related job. about a talent gap or a need, we have Scholarships can be used to pay for tui- worked with them to develop a new protion, fees, exams, books and related ma- gram and located interested students. terials. Vouchers required to take indus- When we recognized our students were try certification exams are also included. facing financial difficulties with achieving Health care courses included in the pro- their dreams, we collaborated with our gram provide training as a clinical medi- local community to locate tuition fundcal assistant or licensed massage thera- ing.” pist. Students can train for information You can find out more about the Open technology jobs such as certified cloud or Door Scholarship Program by visiting CompTIA A+ professionals. www.tampatraining.com or calling 813One example of the benefits provid- 259-6010.

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Staff Report HCA Florida Bran“It has been an indon Hospital ranked credible sight to see ninth in a worldwide so many caregivers Read-a-thon for and volunteers from caregiver reading across the hospital sessions with babies make such a comin neonatal intensive mitment to infant care units (NICU). health by reading Nurses, physicians to our tiniest paand caregivers from tients.” departments across The Read-a-thon Caregivers and volunteers read books from Brandon Hospital, has extra special as well as volun- Pippa’s Library, which was started in honor of meaning to Karber.

Dr. Bianca Karber’s baby girl. teers, read stories The NICU team to infants over the at Brandon Hos11-day competition from pital started a library September 11-21. The in honor of Karber’s Brandon Hospital team baby girl, Pippa, who conducted 670 reading she lost during pregsessions with NICU banancy earlier this year. bies during the compePippa’s memory lives tition, more than tripling on through the legacy their goal. of the library and with This year’s Read-aeach book that’s read thon was the third anto babies in the NICU. nual competition aimed Throughout the ReadVolunteers conducted 670 reading sessions, tripling their goal for the to support infant brain a-thon, caregivers read Read-a-thon. development, family books from Pippa’s Libonding and reducing stress. The 2022 brary. event included 154 NICUs around the globe Beyond the Read-a-thon, the NICU is with a total of 31,879 reading sessions with continuing to accept applications for volNICU babies. It’s the first year HCA Florida unteer cuddlers to snuggle and read to Brandon Hospital has participated in the babies in the NICU. To apply, email angela. competition. anderson2@hcahealthcare.com. The NICU “Reading to babies is so important for is also accepting donations of baby books their brain development, bonding with to Pippa’s Library. If interested in donating, their families and relieving stress. We re- please reach out to laura.stauter@hcaally made a mark. It’s amazing that our healthcare.com. caregivers were in the top 10 for reading HCA Florida Brandon is located at 119 sessions to infants in a worldwide Read-a- Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For information, thon,” said neonatologist Dr. Bianca Karber. visit www.hcafloridabrandonhospital.com.

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HARVEST OF HOPE COLLECTION

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Staff Report Harvest of Hope is an annual event during the month of November that provides Thanksgiving food boxes to families in the Eastern Hillsborough County community.

Our generous community looks forward to the fall season as a reminder to appreciate all that is good in life.

However, many neighbors struggle this time of year. It is a reminder that many families, friends and neighbors are facing challenges and lack the resources needed to overcome these obstacles. It is difficult to have gratitude when life is tough financially, emotionally and relationally.

The community can help by partnering with Hope for Her in the month of October and providing needed nonperishable food for the Harvest of Hope event.

“This event has become a tradition that we look forward to participating in each year,” said community coordinator Kellie Swezey. “It’s an easy way for businesses in our community to offer care, options and assistance for families who are struggling to purchase basic needs.”

Hope for Her will be collecting donations in the month of October to be distributed to families in the month of November. It is through the generosity of many in the community that we will care for fellow neighbors.

Hope for Her is a safe place where women experiencing crisis and trauma find the strength, skills and support they

need to rebuild their best lives. It is made possible from the support of private donations of corporations, businesses and concerned individuals of the Brandon market and its surrounding communities.

Below please find a list of the needs as well as the drop-off locations. Prayerfully consider donating to Harvest of Hope.

Needs: Canned fruit, canned vegetables, canned meat, pasta, pasta sauces, peanut butter, jelly, ravioli, mac and cheese and $10 gift cards for turkey.

Drop-off Locations: Hope for Her, 140 Yarbrough Rd. in Brandon — Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Osprey Observer, 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico — Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Bay Life Church, 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon — Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, 9 a.m.-12 Noon.

New Hope Church, 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon — Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, 9 a.m.-12 Noon.

Runnels Insurance Agency, 3220 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon — Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Vine Vegan, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon — Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Monday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

THE INCREDIBLE YEARS® WITH EASTERSEALS IS NOW ENROLLING IN SE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

BRANDON LIONS CLUB SELLS LUMINARIA KITS TO SUPPORT LOCAL CHARITIES

Staff Report

Staff Report

Finding services skills.” to support chilGenerously dren with developfunded by the mental challenges Children’s Board can be frustrating of Hillsborough for caregivers. In County, The Inresponse to this credible Years pressing need, Easwith Easterterseals is pleased seals program to announce the is designed to The Incredible Years Now Enrolling for Weekend/Evening Sessions – Space is Limited expansion of its strengthen chilEnrollment is now open for The Incredible Years® with dren’s programs in Hillwell-besborough Coun- Easterseals in partnership with the Children’s Board ing, promote of Hillsborough County. ty. The nonprofit, social-emotional which is dedicated to creating equity, inclu- learning and academic competence and presion and access for people with disabilities, vent, reduce and treat behavioral and emois now enrolling families in its The Incredible tional problems in young children.

Years® program.

Families enroll in a 14-week session that The Incredible Years with Easterseals is a meets once a week. In the caregiver-focused free group therapy program for caregivers group, participants work on strengthening and children ages 3-8 years old at the Bran- parent-child relationships, increasing pardon Children’s Board Family Resource Cen- enting strategies and building communiter. Interested families can register online ty support. Held simultaneously, the child at https://tinyurl.com/incredibleyearshills- group concentrates on teaching self-control borough, and future locations will be added skills, problem-solving strategies and ways based on demand. for participants to positively express emoAmanda Lopez, program manager for The tions. The Incredible Years program also inIncredible Years with Easterseals, said, “This cludes a home education component. evidence-based group therapy program is Interested families are encouraged to a blessing to our community. The curricu- email incredibleyears@fl.easterseals.com or lum provided by Incredible Years has been call 813-836-4739 with any questions. life-changing to the families we have already As more and more families register for served in our first few cohorts. Children are The Incredible Years program, Easterseals able to learn about their emotions and make is working to open more locations throughfriends in their small groups, and the caregiv- out Hillsborough County. Easterseals is also ers are able to build strategies to strengthen actively seeking to recruit a bilingual family their parenting skills and the bond they have support specialist. with their child. We are seeing happier famLearn more about Easterseals’ local proilies, increased confidence in the caregivers grams and services at www.easterseals. served and children with healthier coping com/florida.

10/31/2023 9/30/2023

10/31/2023 9/30/2023

Volume 18, Issue 10

Brandon area residents have the opportunity to help others and spread light next month thanks to the Brandon Lions Club and its annual luminaria project and fundraiser.

Until Friday, November 10, residents throughout the Brandon area can purchase a Luminaria Kit to raise funds for local charities supported by the Lions.

“Our Luminaria Kits are constructed with white paper bags weighted down with sand and illuminated from within by a candle,” said Brandon Lions Club treasurer Joe Kuebler. “They are traditionally displayed on Christmas Eve.” According to Kuebler, each kit contains 15 long-burning votive candles, 15 candle holders, 15 white bags and a plastic bag of sand (to use in the base of each bag).

Kits are $8.00, and orders of 15 kits or more will be delivered locally. No payment is required with your order. All orders are COD (cash on delivery) and

can be picked up at the Brandon Lions Club, located at 610 Limona Rd. in Brandon, or will be delivered (orders of 15-plus kits) on Saturday, December 16.

According to Kuebler, the fundraiser has been taking place annually since 2002.

F o r the last several years, the h o m e owners association in Parkside Village in Lithia has purchased enough Luminaria kits to light a path through the community on Christmas Eve. “This has become a favorite community tradition,” said homeowners association board member Marie Gilmore.

The proceeds will benefit Brandon Lions Charities, a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization that has been supporting the club’s eyesight and hearing programs, Southeastern Guide Dogs, Greater Tampa Lions Sight Fund, ECHO, Family Promise, The Outreach Clinic, Brandon High School Don Bishop Track Meet and other local area needs since 1954.

Contact Kuebler at 813-263-2522 to place an order, or email brandonlionsclub@gmail.com.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

October 2023

WE ARE THE ESSENTIALS NONPROFIT FLORIDA GROUP FINDS MISSING PEOPLE

By Ashley Abene

Imagine watching their investigative the news and a story skills, The Essentials of a missing person is found some key eviaired. It’s inconceivdence at Fort Desoto able to believe such Park that led them a thing could happen to Carlton Reserve in to someone you know, North Port. Laundrie until it does. Sadly, The co-founders of We Are The Essentials, was found there, dead more people go missfrom a self-inflicted Nick Tusconi and Billy Lane, on a grid ing than most realize. search of the woods for missing woman gunshot wound. After In Florida alone, 1,252 this case, The EssenTonya Whipp. people are currently tials decided to conmissing. In the United tinue to use their skills States, there are over to help others in Cen600,000 people who tral Florida find their go missing every year, loved ones. according to the NaWe Are The Essentional Missing and Untials is made up of identified Persons Database (NamUs). many volunteers and four main members: For families in these situations, the Nico Tusconi (retired Marine), Billy Lane first place to turn is law enforcement. In (former police detective), Shelley Coroft addition to the police doing their part, a and Amanda Reece. The core members nonprofit organization called We Are The are licensed private investigators. ReEssentials joins the effort of finding lost cently, they located and brought home loved ones.

Anu Awasthi, a Pinellas County mom who Most families don’t know where to be- had gone missing for a week. gin when a loved one goes missing. This Coroft mentioned, “We don’t take on is where ‘The Essentials’ come into play, many criminal cases but rather mental whether it’s running background checks health, addiction, elderly/Alzheimer’s and or phone pings, or searching through suicidal-related missing persons cases.” social media or banking records. The EsCoroft also stated, “We are always sentials often work hand in hand with looking for corporate sponsors and are local police and, after taking on a case, regularly vetting volunteers for grid investigate for free (paid out of their own searches. We need a sponsor for a van to pockets). have as a communication center during This organization was formed in 2021 active searches.” after aiding in the Gabby Petito investiAnyone interested in volunteering gation. Police were searching for suspect or sponsoring We Are The Essentials Brian Laundrie, who disappeared follow- can contact it via its website at www. ing the discovery of Petito’s body. Using wearetheessentials.com.

*

813-974-7889

Page 7

WORLD’S FIRST BATTERY-POWERED CRAWLER CRANE U.S. DEBUT IN TAMPA

By Brian Bokor

For the first time on 40 factories across U.S. soil, Sims Crane & the globe, more than Equipment Co., a Tam52,000 employees and pa-based crane rental assets topping $16B. and rigging service “This is the first in fleet company, showcased in the U.S. and was the world’s first batbuilt in Austria. The untery-powered crawler plugged crane crawler crane on September 11 was brought to market at its corporate headin July 2020 and there quarters, located at are about 30 around 1219 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. the world. The crane in Tampa. can hoist up to 485 ft.

The crawler crane’s Wolfgang Herzog, vice president of sales and has a load (lift) cafor the Southeast and Caribbean (left), designer, multinational pacity of 275 U.S. tons. and area manager Americas Lukas equipment manufacThe battery version has Burtscher (right). turer Liebherr, held exactly the same load a joint presentation with Sims explaining chart and operates exactly the same as the the history of both companies and discuss- diesel-powered version but is completely ing features of the newly manufactured LR quiet.”

1250.1 unplugged electric crane.

It takes about 20 trailer loads to transport The crawler crane’s battery-powered en- the crane. Once on-site, the crane employs gine cuts carbon emissions completely and an innovative self-assembly and self-loading is capable of operating for eight hours un- system which enables unloading and assemplugged, or for an unlimited amount of time bly without an auxiliary crane. For crawler when connected to a power source. The cranes in this size category, more cost-efcrawler crane is also quieter than its diesel fective transportation and quick commiscounterpart, making it ideal for construction sioning play an instrumental role in efficient jobs in residential areas, at hospitals and in operation. other areas where noise pollution may be Sims’ rental fleet, the largest in the state a concern. The eight battery packs used to of Florida, is excited to add the LR 1250.1 power the LR 1250.1 take between four to unplugged electric crane to its fleet. Foundfive hours to recharge. ed in 1959, Sims Crane & Equipment Co. “We are honored to partner with Liebherr offers a broad selection of equipment for and be on the forefront to serve a vastly heavy lifting and hauling applications for growing need for alternative energy,” said construction and industrial projects. The Jackson Sims, vice president of Sims Crane company is currently expanding into Geor& Equipment. gia and recently opened an office in Atlanta.

“These cranes are popular and used For more information on Sims, please visit across Europe, particularly Scandinavia, and https://simscrane.com/ or call 813-626throughout Asia,” said Wolfgang Herzog, 8102. For more information on Liebherr, vice president of sales for the Southeast please visit www.liebherr.com and/or search and Caribbean at Liebherr, a company with for ‘LR 1250.1 unplugged.’

Page 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

HCPS OFFERS TRANSFORMATION NETWORK FOR UNDERPERFORMING SCHOOLS

By Kathy L. Collins The Hilland adminsborough istrators has C o u n t y continued School Disto raise the trict offers bar for our the Hillshighest-need b o r o u g h Hillsborough County Public Schools started the Transforma- schools. We County Pub- tion Network in 2020 to help the district’s most vulnerable and continue to chronically underperforming schools. lic Schools do whatever (HCPS) Transformation Network. This is necessary to ensure a world-class eduis a collection of about 45 schools that cation for every child in our community.” receive focused resources and support McRae added, “We are incredibly based on their performance data. The proud of our teachers, administrators, Transformation Network is focused on frontline staff and Transformation team closing opportunity gaps and levelling for their tireless efforts to accelerate the playing field for students by creating student achievement dramatically. Over equitable systems of support resulting in the last two years, the Transformation rapid, sustainable improvement for stu- Network of Hillsborough County Public dent outcomes.

Schools (HCPS) has increased school In Eastern Hillsborough County, Bur- grades at 38 of 45 schools. The network nett Middle School, Dover Elementary has reduced D and F schools in HillsborSchool, Mango Elementary School and ough County by 82 percent and seen McLane Middle School are a part of the six schools grow by at least two letter Transformation Network. In Southern grades in two years. We are inspired by Hillsborough County, the schools include what these improvements mean to enGibsonton Elementary School, Ippolito sure educational equity for our commuElementary School and Shields Middle nity’s children. And make no mistake, the School. gains we have achieved in our most vulThe Transformation Network was nerable schools over the last two years launched in 2020 as a part of Hillsbor- are unprecedented and rival the success ough County’s Comprehensive School of any school turnaround effort in state Turnaround Initiative. This was focused history.” on serving the academic, cultural and soThe vision for the Transformation Netcial needs of students and staff at some work is to ensure that every child has unof the district’s most vulnerable and wavering access to five strategic focus chronically underperforming school. areas, including rigorous, high-quality inShaylia McRae, deputy superintendent struction; expert, collaborative teachers; of academics and transformation for engaging families and communities; safe Hillsborough County Public Schools, said, and supportive environments; and trans“Over the last few years of the Transfor- formation and effective leaders. mation Network’s existence, our team For more information, please visit of dedicated teachers, staff, coaches www.hillsboroughschools.org.

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October 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

MENTORS NEEDED FOR TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN RECIPIENTS

Page 9

THE 33RD ANNUAL RUSKIN SEAFOOD FESTIVAL IS BACK

By Ashley Abene

By Libby Hopkins

Since its formaSince migrant stution in 1995, the dents often travel nonprofit organithroughout the zation Take Stock year, many will in Children (TSIC) be utilizing this has been helping virtual option to children excel acaparticipate in the demically throughprogram. out high school and “Mentorship can beyond. With the be a game changer Take Stock in Children students on a college motto of “Change for most of these tour. a child’s life today, students.

With and break the 325 students curcycle of poverty rently enrolled in through educathe TSIC program tion,” TSIC menfrom middle and tors children from low socioeconomic high school, we need mentors,” stated backgrounds to academic excellence. Anna Corman, interim CEO of the HillsStudies have shown that when a child borough Education Foundation. has a mentor throughout their educaCurrently, in the program, there are 16 tion, they have a better outlook at school students who are without a volunteer and are more likely to enroll in college or mentor. a trade school. TSIC aims to help chilCorman mentioned, “Many people are dren through mentorship to achieve suc- worried that they can’t be a mentor, but cess in a postsecondary education and it’s all about sharing experiences and ultimately in a future career. serving as a role model to students.”

Take Stock in Children is run through Volunteers who wish to mentor will the Hillsborough Education Foundation have to complete training, pass a crimi(HEF) and is one of the Tampa Bay area’s nal background check, be 18 years of age largest mentoring programs. Students or older and have a high school diploma. enrolled in this program have access Volunteers also must be available to to a volunteer mentor throughout their meet with a student 30 minutes a week education and a college success coach. and make a commitment to mentor for Every student in TSIC also has an oppor- a year. tunity to earn a Florida Prepaid ScholTo apply to be a mentor, visit https:// arship if program requirements are met. educationfoundation.com/programs/ Recently, 30 migrant students were mentor-a-student/ or call 813-574-0260. accepted into the TSIC program in Hill- HEF appreciates donations as well. Since sborough County. Mentors are encour- 93 cents of every dollar donated goes aged to meet in person, but TSIC also back into its programs, financial support has a monitored application where stu- is vital to provide Florida Prepaid Scholdents and mentors can meet virtually. arships for TSIC recipients.

The Ruskin complace on Saturday munity is thrilled and Sunday, Decemto have its annual ber 2-3 at E.G. SimRuskin Seafood Festimons Park. It’s a val back. “The Ruskin great two-day, famSeafood Festival ily-friendly event. started in 1987,” said “This year, we have Melanie Davis, execmade our children’s utive director of the play area more SouthShore Chamber hands-on,” Davis of Commerce. “The said. “In years past, festival is in its 33rd we had carnival-style year and we havrides that cost famien’t held the festival lies extra money, so since COVID, so we this year we have are thrilled to have it more interactive fun back.” activities for The Ruskin the children.”

Seafood Festival If you ask is the largest Davis what her event in Southfavorite part of ern Hillsborough the Ruskin SeaCounty.

“This food Festival is, year, we wantshe will tell you ed to focus the it’s the people The 33rd annual Ruskin Seafood Festival takes place festival more lowho attend the on Saturday and Sunday, December 2-3 at cally,” Davis said. festival.

“It’s E.G. Simmons Park in Ruskin.

“In years past, great to see we had some big-name entertainers, but families having a great time and familiar this year we have local musicians, high faces from our community,” Davis said. “I school bands and a local barbershop love seeing guests who attended the fesquartet.” tival with their parents when they were Davis and her team are thrilled that little, and now they have grown up and so many local vendors have joined this are coming to the festival with their chilyear’s festival. “We are almost full for dren. The Ruskin Seafood Festival is truly vendors, but there is still room for a few a local community event.” more,” Davis said. “With the festival takIf you would like to learn more about ing place at the beginning of December, the Ruskin Seafood Festival, you can it’s the perfect time for our guests to get visit its website at www.ruskinseafooda jump on their Christmas shopping. We fest.org. E.G. Simmons Park is located at have a large variety of craft vendors in 2401 19th Ave. NW in Ruskin. The festiaddition to our food vendors.” val’s hours of operation are Saturday, 10 The Ruskin Seafood Festival takes a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Expires 10/31

Expires 10/31

Page 10

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

SELAH FREEDOM WELCOMES ACTIVISTS DUANE CHAPMAN & FRANCIE TO FUNDRAISING EVENT

Volume 18, Issue 10

THE CHILDREN’S BOARD OF

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SELECTS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Staff Report

By Kathy L. Collins

Selah Freedom, fundraising events on Florida’s largest anOctober 25 in Tampa, ti-sex trafficking orand again on Thursganization with the day, November 9 at mission to end to sex Embassy Suites in trafficking in the U.S. Sarasota. and bring freedom to At Light the Night, the exploited, will honyour senses will be or Duane Chapman at dazzled by a night its annual fundraiser filled with soul-stiron Wednesday, Octoring music, captiber 25. The fundraisvating speakers and er is called ‘Light the exhilarating live and Path’ and will be held silent auctions. Savor at Armature Works, delectable cuisine and located at 1910 N. Ola sip on exquisite drinks Dog the Bounty Hunter and wife Francie as you revel in an atAve. in Tampa.

Florida is the No. will be the speakers at the Selah Freedom mosphere bursting event in Tampa in October, 3 state for sex trafwith celebration and ficking, and what better time to honor a camaraderie. This isn’t just a night out national celebrity who has vowed to hunt — it’s a call to action. Come discover the down sex traffickers and help survivors life-changing work Selah Freedom is pasrecover? sionately undertaking right here in Tampa Chapman (aka Dog the Bounty Hunter) Bay to combat human trafficking and emis an American television personality and power survivors. bounty hunter. He and his wife, Francie, Do you want to leave a lasting impact? have vowed to continue chasing bad guys, You can do so through the Light the Path but this time targeting predators of sex sponsorship levels that begin with a VIP trafficking. Through their nonprofit orga- meet and greet with ‘Dog’ and Francie. For nization called the D.O.G. Foundation, the more information, contact marketing@ couple have put together an elite team to selahfreedom.com for custom sponsor chase down men who are grooming and packages or visit https://support.selahkidnapping women into being sex traf- freedom.com/event/light-the-path-north/ ficked, while he and his wife spend their e475815. time offering rehabilitation to the surviSupporting Selah Freedom will continvors. ue to enable the organization to further Selah Freedom hopes to raise funds to its cause of eliminating a $99 billion sex fight sex trafficking through a truly illu- trafficking industry. minating experience as it lights the path For more information, visit https://sefrom north to south at two separate lahfreedom.com/.

The Children’s Board of velopment. Bacon joined Hillsborough County has the Children’s Board 16 selected a new executive years ago as the managdirector. Rebecca Bacon er of the Administrative will replace Kelley Parris, Services Organization who served as the ex(ASO) and was later ecutive director for the promoted to director of Children’s Board for 10 the Administrative Seryears. Bacon assumed vices Organization. In the post of executive dithis role, she managed rector as of October 1. and developed a full-serThe Children’s Board vice fiscal intermediary of Hillsborough County that funds individualized was established in 1988 services for children and after the Juvenile Wel- Rebecca Bacon, who has more than their families.

30 years of experience in children’s fare Services Act was “I am honored and services, is now the new executive passed by the Florida director for the Children’s Board of humbled for the opporLegislature and signed tunity to serve as the exHillsborough County. by the governor in 1986 ecutive director with the pursuant to Florida Statute 125.901. This Children’s Board of Hillsborough County,” enabling legislation provided that any said Bacon. “I look forward to working county in Florida, whose voters agreed collaboratively with our team and comthrough referendum, could create a spe- munity partners to ensure every child has cial taxing district for children’s services access to the resources and opportunities with a governing board and the authority they need to thrive.” to levy ad valorem taxes.

Bacon added, “The Children’s Board is The mission of the Children’s Board of a true gem with the incredible mission Hillsborough County is to invest in qual- of investing in partnerships and qualiity programs to support the success of ty programs to support the success of all children and families in Hillsborough all children and families in Hillsborough County. The board invests in programs and County. As the newly appointed executive services that ensure children are healthy director, I am honored to work with our and safe, developmentally on track, have talented staff and community partners family support and are ready to learn and to improve child and family outcomes in succeed. In 2022, the Children’s Board in- the areas of health and safety, child develvested $50 million in grants to over 66 opment, early school success and family nonprofits and 110 different programs support.” that help children and families.

For more information on the Children’s Bacon has more than 30 years of ex- Board of Hillsborough County, please visit perience in children’s services with an www.childrensboard.org or call 813-229emphasis on program and resource de- 2884.

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Page 11

UNITED FOOD BANK OF PLANT CITY TO HOLD 13TH ANNUAL EMPTY BOWLS PROJECT IN NOVEMBER TO HELP FIGHT AGAINST HUNGER

By Taylor Wells

For its mission to stamp available for the event: ‘Knife’ for out and spread awareness $500, ‘Spoon’ for $1,000, ‘Fork’ for of hunger in our commu$2,500, ‘Bowl’ for $5,000, ‘Title nity, local nonprofit United Sponsor’ for $10,000 and ‘PresentFood Bank of Plant City ing Sponsor’ for over $15,000. The (UFB) will hold its 13th benefits increase with each level, annual Empty Bowls Projwith ‘Knife’ giving sponsor recogect on Saturday, Novemnition on event signage, whereas ber 11 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

‘Presenting Sponsor’ includes the The event will take place sponsor’s logo on printed marketing in Plant City at Robert W. materials and at the top of Empty Willaford Railroad MuseBowl T-shirts, a banner (provided by um, located at 102 N. Palmthe sponsor) to display at the event, er St., and McCall Park, lo12 tickets to the event and recogA bowl painted by Mar Harrer. It is one Hope Lutheran Church is one of the cated at 100 N. Collins St. nition at the event plus on signage, of the 10 professionally painted bowls The UFB has conducted up for auction at the 13th annual Empty churches and organizations that makes social media, printed materials and and serves homemade soups for the Students with their chalk art on a its Empty Bowls Project a newsletter.

Bowls Project.

Empty Bowls Project event lunch. sidewalk at a previous Empty Bowls since 2010, inspired by the All proceeds directly benefit the Project event. techniques original project that was created in 1990 and Chorale, Larry Clark UFB. went on to become a worldwide symbol of (a saxophonist and member of the Carolina and examples of pastel chalk masterpiecFor more information about UFB’s Empawareness. In that project, with the assis- Beach Music Hall of Fame) and Ace Jackson es. Afterward will be hands-on instruction ty Bowls Project, visit www.ufbpc.org/ where Tombros helps the artists express the empty-bowls-project/. For additional spontance of art students, bowls were handcraft- and the Jump Kings.

What’s more, the Empty Bowls Project will Empty Bowls theme of ‘Filling Hearts and sorship information or to make a donaed, and a simple lunch was served. The UFB’s have a street painting show where students Bowls’ and practice their designs for the tion, contact Mary Heysek at mheysek@ project is structured in the same way.

“We have, by the way, 19 Hillsborough who took part in the UFB’s street painting show. ufbpc.org or 813-763-0625, ext. 5. To find Applications for the workshop, were due the street painting workshop application County schools participating … in making workshop will use chalk to create their own the small bowls that will be given with the designs on sidewalks. Those wanting to take by Tuesday, October 17, to Becky Hartmann and learn more, visit the website’s workdonation of $10 to the food bank, and these part in the show must attend the workshop, at bhartmann3@verizon.net. She can also be shop section and click the application link student bowls are small reminders of ‘empty which is going to be held from 9 a.m.-12 reached at 813-205-5436 for further infor- or go to www.ufbpc.org/wp-content/upbowls’ that are not filled every day,” said Sil- Noon on Saturday, October 28. However, if a mation. loads/2023/05/2023-street-painting-appliAnd of course, six sponsorship levels are cation.pdf. via Dodson, UFB board member and Empty student attended a previous workshop, then they don’t need to attend this one.

Bowls coordinator.

“We utilize the sidewalks on both the muWith the $10 donation, you’ll receive a seum and the park to accommodate all the ticket not only for a student-made bowl but • PRIMARY CARE art students,” said Dodson. “Palmer Street, also a choice of one 16 oz. soup, two 8 oz.

• MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS soups or four 4 oz. soups, plus crackers, fruit, which runs in between the museum and the • TELEHEALTH water, a spoon, and napkins in a bag. Local park, will be closed during the event to allow for safe pedestrian traffic to view the art and Darlyne Georges churches and other organizations will proencourage walking through downtown.”

MSN, APRN, FNP-C vide the soups.

Led by professional street painter Janet There will be 10 bowls painted by local 813-438-5220 949-798-7803 professionals up for auction as well. Enter- Tombros, the workshop includes a PowerPoint 214 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon tainment includes the Plant City Community presentation about the art form’s history, WECAREWELLNESSCLINIC.COM

Page 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

‘PHOENIX RISING’ SET TO SOAR ABOVE THE SERENGETI PLAIN AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY IN SPRING 2024

TAMPA BAY HARLEY-DAVIDSON

Staff Report

By Kayleigh Jones

Expect a blaze of dinary journey excitement in Tamfor our seasoned pa Bay this coming coaster enthusiSpring, as Busch asts and younger Gardens brings to thrill-seekers alike,” life a legend with said Stewart Clark, its newest roller president of Buscoaster ‘Phoenix ch Gardens Tampa Rising,’ the park’s Set to open in 2024, Phoenix Rising will be- Bay. “Joining a comtenth coaster, and come the largest family-friendly addition to prehensive coaster the largest fami- the Pantopia area of the park and will be the collection, this new first coaster to feature onboard audio. ly-friendly addition attraction reinforcto the Pantopia area of the park. es our commitment to provide guests With a minimum height requirement with new, immersive and one-of-a-kind of only 42 inches, this exhilarating new experiences.” experience will have family members Annual pass members get early ride soaring above the Serengeti Plain before access on Phoenix Rising prior to its going on an exploratory journey over the public debut in spring 2024. In addition Pantopia region with its vibrant colors, to exclusive perks and monthly rewards, thrilling attractions and more. Riders pass members can enjoy a vibrant array will feel the rush of the wind and thrill of seasonal events throughout the year of the flight in this suspended roller for as low as $14 per month. coaster that enables ride cars and riders Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ulto swing side to side as the train races timate family adventure, offering 300 along the track high above the Serenge- acres of fascinating attractions based ti Plain. Phoenix Rising will be the first on exotic explorations around the world. coaster to feature onboard audio, en- Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrillhancing the ride experience with a one- ing rides, an AZA-accredited zoo with of-a-kind soundtrack integrated into an thousands of animals representing more exhilarating array of twists, turns and than 200 species and exciting seasonal surprises for families riding together. events all year providing unrivaled expeManufactured by Bolliger & Mabill- riences for guests of every age. ard, Phoenix Rising is a family-friendly Guests can learn more about all the suspended roller coaster, traveling at events, future announcements and the speeds up to 44 miles per hour through- unbeatable benefits of being an annual out the 1,831-feet journey. With a min- pass member by visiting https://busimum height requirement of 42 inches, chgardenstampa.com/. To be the first Phoenix Rising will be the perfect at- to know about construction updates, traction for thrill-seeking families to guests can follow Busch Gardens Tampa embark on and have fun together.

Bay on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), “Phoenix Rising will be an extraor- Instagram and TikTok.

CHAPTER HOSTS CLAY SHOOT FOR SOUTHEASTERN GUIDE DOGS

The Old Town Harley Service dogs can Owners Group (HOG) assist Veterans strugChapter #5039 of Tamgling with a variety of pa Bay Harley-Davidson issues, such as vision will host its fourth anloss, PTSD and other nual Paws for Patriots mental or physical conClay Shoot in support of ditions. The veterans who have viVe t e ra n s sion loss, limb loss and/ Administraor PTSD (post-traution does Members of the Old Town matic stress disorder). not recogHOG Chapter of Tampa The shoot will be held Bay Harley-Davidson at a nize service on Veterans Day, Satanimals as previous clay shoot. urday, November 11, at a prosthetic FishHawk Sporting Clays, located at 13505 need and won’t pay for a guide dog or assisHobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia. tance dog to be assigned to a disabled veterAll active-duty military personnel partic- an; thus, the partnership with Old Town HOG ipate for free, and four-person teams pay and SE Guide dogs is invaluable. $120 per shooter. According to assistant diMembers of Old Town HOG, including Adrector Dennis Adams, the event’s goal is not ams, have had the opportunity to listen to just to raise money but to also provide ac- numerous veterans recount their experienctive-duty military members with a free day es, detailing challenges with pain or disorof shooting and lunch. The money raised for ders like PTSD, as a result of the partnership Southeastern Guide Dogs comes from auc- with SE Guide Dogs. tions, raffles, member donations and corpoAccording to Adams, “They all have a rate sponsorships. common quote: ‘This dog saved my life.’”

Adams and the Old Town HOG Chapter Adams said the Old Town HOG chapter are no strangers to charity. In the last 18 holds fundraisers not just to benefit the loyears, Old Town HOG has raised and donat- cal community of now but also to support ed $600,000 to Southeastern Guide Dogs the community of tomorrow. Members of with the goal of providing service dogs to the Old Town HOG Chapter of Tampa Bay Veterans. In previous years, it has organized Harley-Davidson are making a difference in fundraisers ranging from golf tournaments the community and are working toward a to poker runs. brighter future.

Due to Old Town HOG’s continuous efforts For more information on Old Town HOG, over the past eighteen years, many veterans visit www.oldtownhog.com. For additional have received free service dogs and associ- information on the clay shoot, look for the ated expenditures such as food, veterinarian “You Can Help!” section on the left side of care and training through SE Guide Dogs the home page. Sponsors and raffle donawere also covered. tions are still needed.

Wendy LeBlanc recently traveled with her husband Andre to the Dead Sea in Jordan.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

October 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 13

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Page 14

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

ICE THE DICE CASINO NIGHT WILL BENEFIT HIGH 5 INC. PROGRAMS

ROOTED IN TRADITION:

THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIR RETURNS TO DELIGHT AND THRILL NOVEMBER 2-12 Staff Report

By Lily Belcher

High 5 Inc. is needs education hosting its highly and athletic finananticipated annual cial assistance,” Ice the Dice CasiSpano said. no Night on Friday, All adults in the November 17 at community are The Regent, locatinvited to Casino ed at 6437 Watson Night. Tickets are Rd. in Riverview, $75 per person and to raise money include entry, pokfor programs and er ‘money,’ food, Ice the Dice Casino Night will feature food, scholarships ofentertainment and drinks and entertainment for guests. fered through the an open bar. Regnonprofit organization. istration for the online auction is free, so This year’s event, which runs from 7-11 the only additional charges will be item p.m., will feature an even wider variety of purchases or donations. casino games, vendors and auction prizes “All proceeds benefit underprivileged to raise money for its cause while giving families in our community by providing guests the opportunity to give back to the them with scholarship funding for various community. programs,” Spano said.

“Casino Night is always a night to reTRIDENT and Blue Wave families and member. Not only do we have a huge leaders will volunteer to set up, break variety of casino games, but there will down and run the event, but High 5 is albe an open bar and food from incredible ways looking for more volunteers to aid vendors,” family experience director Jada the production.

Spano said. “Enjoy music, raffles, silent “There is year-round work that goes auction, entertainment, community and into planning this event. So that final hour so many other fun activities.” of the night as people are having such a Auction prizes will include sports mem- great time and coming together to do orabilia, designer bags, vacation trips and incredible things, that is my favorite and more. In addition to bigger and better most memorable moment,” Spano said. prizes in the silent auction, guests do not To purchase tickets, register for the have to be present to bid on or win items, event or register for or view silent aucas there will be an online option for bid- tion items, which will continue to be loadding. ed to the site up to the day of the event, “Our goal is to raise $100,000 this year visit https://high5.home.qtego.us/. For so that we can better serve and benefit more information or to donate an auction so many children and families who other- item, contact Spano at 813 689-0908 or wise could not afford things such as swim jspano@high5inc.org. High 5 is located at lessons, quality after-school care, special 405 Beverly Rd. in Brandon.

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Volume 18, Issue 10

The Hillsborough County Fair returns to the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover this November for 11 days of youth competitions, thrilling rides, captivating entertainment, mouthwatering food and an array of family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy.

The Hillsborough County Fair will take place from Thursday, November 2 through Sunday, November 12 at the scenic Hillsborough County Fairgrounds located just east of Brandon at the intersection of State Road 60 and Sydney Washer Road. Visitors from all over the region are invited to join in the festivities and create lasting memories.

Since its inception, the Hillsborough County Fair has been a cherished tradition that celebrates the spirit of community, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and agricultural legacy of our region. This year’s theme, ‘Rooted in Tradition,’ reflects that history and plans are underway to build upon that legacy with new attractions and features that are sure to delight fairgoers of all ages.

The midway will be hopping with rides and amusements for all ages. Look for the adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions that cater to thrill-seekers and families alike. Live entertainment is always happening at the Hillsborough County Fair. Prepare to be dazzled by an impressive lineup of live performances featuring local talent, musicians, dancers and much more.

A fair isn’t a fair without food. Savor the flavors of the fair with a diverse selection of delectable treats, ranging from classic carnival fare to unique and indulgent culinary delights.

The agriculture and livestock exhibits are a big part of the fair’s history. Immerse yourself in the agricultural traditions of Hillsborough County as local farmers and exhibitors showcase their finest crops, livestock and crafts. As in years past, Hillsborough County youth, including members of the Future Farmers of America and the 4-H Club, will compete and display their dairy and beef cattle, swine, sheep, goats, rabbits, poultry and turkeys. Afterward, buyers can show their support and purchase livestock for the market.

Not to be missed are the annual arena events: the rodeo, truck and tractor pull and demolition derby.

Among the annual traditions and highlights, new this year are the sensory-friendly hours that have been designed for individuals with disabilities who would benefit from a calmer sensory experience, which will be on Friday, November 10 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Hillsborough County Fair offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including educational exhibits, arts and crafts, interactive games and so much more.

For more information, visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/2023-fair/. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

October 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

DOVE INTERIORS CARPET ONE COMPLETES INSTALLATION OF ROOM

BY ROOM SHOWROOM REDESIGN

Staff Report

Dove Interiors Carpet ing initiatives ensures One Floor & Home anthat Dove Interiors nounced the recent comstays at the forefront pletion of a showroom of industry trends. overhaul with the unveilScott explained, ing of Room by Room, “Before this showwhich was designed to room renovation, we shift the way consumers watched consumers shop for floors. come into the store and Four years in the makfeel overwhelmed. Now ing, Room by Room fea- Dove Interiors recently unveiled Room what we see is satistures a streamlined, spa- by Room, a total showroom redesign. faction, confidence and cious showroom with contentment.” products organized by color.

Dove Interiors has a wholeThe redesign includes a house solution with the advanpowerful digital experience, tage of shopping for flooring, boasting revamped websites window treatments, kitchen and and in-store kiosks that display bath cabinets and countertops product and inspiration content directly for under one roof. Additionally, at Dove Intethe consumer. This includes room visual- riors Carpet One Floor & Home, associates izers, QR codes, easy product comparison are not only trained sales professionals, intools, animated product views, warranty stallation technicians and product experts, information and more all at the customer’s but, more importantly, they are also your fingertips. neighbors who strive to provide a genuinely “It has been so exciting to see the cus- helpful experience. tomer reaction to the new space. It upPiggybacking on that, giving back to the grades the previous floor shopping expe- community is also very important to the rience by focusing on ease of selection. owners.

This innovative design is tailored to suit “We support the Tunnel to Towers Founthe way today’s consumer makes home im- dation that builds mortgage-free homes for provement decisions,” said Dove Interiors wounded veterans and pays off the mortco-owner Kimberly Scott. gages for Gold Star families, whose spousLocally owned and operated since 1991 es were killed in the line of duty. We also by mother-daughter duo Joan Miller and do local work with Toys for Tots, a program Scott, Dove Interiors is part of Carpet One that helps less-fortunate children receive Floor & Home, the co-op that created the new toys to play with,” said Miller. new store redesign and equipped the team Visit Dove Interiors’ 6,000-square-foot with advanced training to provide the best- showroom, located at 2305 College Ave. in in-class service. As part of the Carpet One Ruskin.

Floor & Home co-op, the advantage of enFor more information, visit www.doveinhanced buying power and in-house market- teriorscarpetone.com.

Page 15

FASTFRAME COMES TO WINTHROP TOWN CENTRE

By Libby Hopkins

Discover the art of preserving memories and showcasing your family treasures in style with the new owner of FastFrame in the Winthrop Town Centre, Aki Weaver and David Escobar. “From paintings to photographs to memorabilia, we frame your stories with craftsmanship and care,” said Weaver. “Embark on a journey of personalization and elegance with us.”

The couple met eight years ago while attending the University of Tampa. “We have a 6-year-old daughter named Hana who is our ‘floor manager,’ and she keeps us in check,” Weaver said.

The couple took over the frame store when the previous owner became ill. “It was all thanks to the VP of FastFrame, the team at Winthrop and timing,” Weaver said. “Unfortunately, the previous owner of the location fell ill and could no longer take on the store. It was important to the VP of the franchise to keep the location going and the people of Winthrop didn’t want to lose the product, as it was too emotional and valuable to let go to waste.

Simultaneously, my husband and I were looking for a career change. It’s something we thought we could bring our youth and energy to, as we saw how custom picture framing, just like many other businesses, is experiencing an aging process.”

As soon as the couple took over the frame store, they realized it was so much more than just a frame shop. “It is about

preserving people’s treasures and memories,” Weaver said. “It was overwhelming, in the best way. We couldn’t be happier that it turned out to be such a positive thing for us and the community of Winthrop.”

If you ask the couple what makes FastFrame different from other frame stores in the area, they will tell you it’s the process of making their customers’ visions come to life. “First, we go through a professional designing process with our customers for each piece,” Weaver said. “Whether you’re trying to decorate your home or your office, we can help our customers bring their vision to life. Second, we delicately and meticulously handle our customer’s artwork and memorabilia. All of our services are done by an experienced craftsman. Finally, we offer a True Love guarantee on each piece. That means if a customer isn’t in love with their finished piece, we will redesign and recraft it within the same price range at no additional cost. When you bring your memories to us, we will take the best care of them.”

If you would like to learn more about FastFrame and the services it offers, you can visit its website at https://fastframe. com/riverview/ or call 813-436-0044.

The store hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and on Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The store is located at 6128 Winthrop Town Centre Ave. in Riverview.

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Page 16

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

FOR THE LOVE OF COFFEE!

ENJOY A DELICIOUS CUP AT ONE OF THE MANY LOCAL COFFEE SHOPS IN THE COMMUNITY

By Makenzie Atkins Noel While coffee has been around since the 15th century, one Seattle-based coffee shop put the delicious drink on the map.

Once coffee became popular after the Boston Tea Party in 1773, Starbucks popularized the drink in 1971 by expanding its reach to gain loyal customers nationwide. According to a recent survey, Tampa is ranked number six across America as one of the best coffee cities.

When you take a look at all the coffee shops in the community, you can see that the area loves delectable coffee.

While Starbucks might have started the trend, Dunkin’ soon gained fame in the early 1980s after opening its doors in 1950.

Starting out as just donuts and coffee,

Dunkin’ has expanded to bagels, sandwiches, English muffins and many other breakfast items. While there are many op-

tions to choose from, no matter what you choose, you can always get a delicious coffee from Dunkin’.

The Dunkin’ located on Fishhawk Blvd. is open from 5 a.m.-10 p.m. seven days a week.

Though Cali Cafe offers more than just coffee, its Columbian classic is hard to beat. This local coffee shop makes everything in-house, so it is fresh every day. From the breakfast Cuban to the cafe con leche and everything in between, customers are loving Cali Cafe.

Located at 10010 US-301 in Riverview, Cali Cafe is open from Monday through Saturday, 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and on Sunday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Foundation Coffee Co. offers handcrafted coffee and espressos, an expansive tea bar and real, fresh food options. By hiring baristas who know the history and details about coffee, they are able to serve you something with love and care.

Foundation Coffee has two locations, one in Riverview and the other in Ybor. The shop located at 10020 Carr Rd. in Riverview is open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m., and on Sunday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Chill Cawfee offers a new take on classic drinks with CBD-infused coffees and teas. Though

this shop might have some extravagant drink options, Chill Cawfee wants you to be able to relax when you step foot into the shop.

“I love connecting with the community, the few minutes that our customers spend with us to get their coffee in the morning brings me happiness,” said Lisa Quigley, owner of Chill Cawfee.

The shop will be expanding this year to add retro games and extended hours. Chill Cawfee, located at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., is open M o n d ay through Saturday, 7 a.m.5 p.m., and on Sunday, 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Raining Berries was founded in 2018 in Florida with a goal to transform the coffee industry. The shop sources coffee through trusted and ethical means, and FOUNDATION COFFEE you can read the story of the coffee on its website. Raining Berries, located at 1560 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, is open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m.-9 p.m., and on Sunday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

The Louie Beans Coffee Co. truck serves the Tampa area coffee, tea and flavored soda. The truck has five signature drinks that include things like pistachio, toasted marshmallows and lavender.

“I enjoy being able to make people’s day by serving them things they love,” said Jennifer Mantilla, owner of Louie Beans.

Mantilla stated that no matter what your coffee preference is, Louie Bean can create something for you.

“I have people who need caffeine but hate the taste of coffee,” said Mantilla, “others love the taste but cannot have caffeine. Don’t worry, we got you.”

Find Louie Beans at 106 N. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Ruskin from 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday.

Coffee comes in all shapes, sizes, flavors and temp e rat u re s , and every person has their favorite way to drink it.

With all the shops that offer unique versions of the classic coffee, step out of your comfort zone and try one of the fun, new flavors that coffee has to offer.

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October 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 17

A LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT: HCPS AWARDED THE CONGRESSIONALLY HCPS RECRUITING NEW ESE TEACHERS FUNDED COMMUNITY PROJECT: CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) GRANT WITH ACCELERATED PROGRAM

By Interim Superintendent Van Ayres As we push forward said Shannon Lesperance, with filling our remaining ESE assistant director for teacher vacancies for Hillinstructional programs. sborough County Public Thanks to our STEP proSchools’ (HCPS) 2023-24 gram, there is an acceleratschool year, HCPS has a ed route in which a backlaser focus on specific poground in education isn’t sitions: Exceptional stunecessary. STEP is a great dent education, or ESE, opportunity for those who teachers. HCPS serves over always thought they might 30,000 students with diswant to be a teacher. We’re abilities, who receive inlooking for individuals

struction with specialized with a bachelor’s degree

support provided by both or higher and a growth

general education and mindset who can always 6 !YRE special education find ways to help teachers. But for our students find many students with success. disabilities, success “It’s really about in the classroom dehaving a guide for pends on approprithese prospective ate adaptations, acteachers every step commodations and of the way to help modifications made you both in your to the instruction preparation and and any other classpractice, which room activities. leads to a professional certificate,” said Right now, HCPS is actively recruit- Scott Richman, the district’s supervisor ing new ESE teachers as we strive to fill of professional development.

100 positions. These include students Those who enroll in the program, meet with intellectual, learning and physical the requirements and complete three or challenges, speech and language diffi- more years of teaching will receive up culties as well as hearing and/or visual front a 50 percent discount off the proimpairments, along with students with gram value of $900. In addition, benefits autism. include competitive starting salaries, va“These are our students who need cation time and school breaks, medical some of the most support, and they need plus basic life insurance and participato have services as a part of their Indi- tion in the Florida Retirement System, vidualized Education Plan (IEP), and it’s professional development and training important that they have high-quality in- at no cost, as well as opportunities for structors to help them meet their goals,” career advancement.

Staff Report Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) has been awarded a 12-month Congressionally Funded Community Project: Career and Technical Education (CTE) grant for $1,000,000. This federally funded grant will offer a rigorous workforce development program that will educate students in a variety of medical and building construction professions. This grant project will be funded in whole by federal funds through the Department of Education, which will ensure that the workforce of Tampa’s tomorrow is prepared with the necessary skills and create a much-needed pipeline of skilled labor in high-demand fields within our community. This funding was made possible through the work of U.S. Representative Kathy Castor and her office.

HCPS will use the federal grant funds to expand CTE offerings for students in grades nine through 12 in the areas of construction and medical training, including the purchase of CTE course-related equipment and instructional materials. This year, the district opened two new workforce development high schools: the Building Construction Academy at Bowers/Whitley and the Medical Academy at D.W. Waters.

The district’s CTE offerings are part of an overall program of study designed to prepare students to be successful

in a rapidly changing workforce and equip them to make informed decisions about their future.

CTE offers students the opportunity to earn highly valued industry certifications and to develop a multitude of skills while experiencing a rigorous curriculum with real-world applications.

Through this grant, the district can offer more courses and increase the number of students enrolled.

“We are excited to see our health science students transition from the entry-level course this year to the more advanced courses in the next few years.

The Congressionally Funded Grant will provide modern equipment that will allow students to use advanced technology to visualize, simulate and perform clinical tasks, which will best prepare them to enter a health science-related career or postsecondary program when they graduate high school in 2027,” said interim superintendent Van Ayres.

The district has been partnering with industry experts throughout the Tampa Bay area to ensure our students are trained and have the knowledge and skills necessary for careers right here in our community. Students who earn an industry certification in high school can potentially save their families anywhere from $106.86 to $1,602.90 in college tuition per industry certification.

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Page 18

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

Staff Report

FishHawk-Riverview food, live entertainment, Have a heart for serand fun for all ages at the vice? Join the Rotary Club 32nd annual Brandon ’86 of FishHawk-Riverview on Rotary Club Seafood FestiMondays, 12 Noon-1 p.m., at val on Saturday, November Gasparilla Pizza & Grinders 4, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Rotaor at its social on Thursdays, ry’s Camp Florida. Brandon “Together, We Empower” 5-6:30 p.m. at Shrimp Boat. image: Rotary International ’86 Rotary Club’s VIP area In the 2023-24 Rotary year, members building a house in offers an exclusive expeFishHawk-Riverview Rotary rience. Become a sponsor Honduras. donated over $40,000 to and gain exposure for your local and global charities, firm through six regular including graduating high sponsorship levels and an school seniors, junior dele‘in-kind’ food sponsorship. gates to S4TL (Seminar for Contact the club at info@ Tomorrow’s Leaders), Rotabrando86rotary.com for ry’s Camp Florida, Honduras more details.

Compassion Partners and Sun City Center various initiatives in Kenya.

Why are so many peoRequests for donations from ple joining the Rotary Club the FishHawk-Riverview Ro- Local graduating seniors were of Sun City Center? Go tary Club Foundation come awarded scholarships from the find out! Ten new memexclusively from active Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riv- bers have joined its active erview. members and are awarded group in the past year, based on alignment with its mission: allevi- earning it a bronze award from its Rotary ating poverty, illiteracy, hunger or disease. District. Coming soon is the club’s annual For more information, visit its Facebook, In- Pecans for Scholarships fundraiser, which stagram or YouTube pages or go to www. will begin in mid-November. Over the fishhawkriverviewrotary.org. last 30 years, it has awarded more than Brandon $250K to local high school students. Be a Last year, the Rotary Club of Brandon part of the action and call Connie at 813donated more than $130,000 to local chari- 957-6482. ties. Its annual golf tournament at Buckhorn Brandon Global Eco Zoom will be on January 18, 2024, and our annual Join Brandon Global Eco on Zoom, 6-7 Wild Game Dinner will be March 1, 2024, at p.m. every second and fourth Monday of the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. The each month as its ecology club learns from Rotary Club of Brandon meets Tuesdays speakers from across the United States at 12 Noon at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary on all topics related to the environment Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. and ecology. Please email Bruno Kazenas in Brandon. Visit www.brandonrotary.org at bkazenas@comcast.net for the Zoom for more information. link, for information on joining this causeBrandon ’86 based Rotary Club or if you would like to Join us for a day of fresh-caught sea- be a guest speaker. Visitors are welcome.

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Page 19

INTERACT CLUB OF TAMPA BAY PROVIDES SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS

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With over 400 comdent of the Brandon munity service hours ’86 Rotary Club. completed last year, The Interact Club the Interact Club of is sponsored by the Tampa Bay has been Brandon ’86 Rotary an essential resource Club and frequently for local students assists with Rotary wanting to make an events in the area. impact within their One of the largest ancommunity. The club’s nual events that the motto of “Service club participates in is above self” guides the Brandon Seafood The Interact Club partnered with the members in sparking Brandon ’86 Rotary Club to help with a Festival, a day filled change and commit- roadside cleanup and keep the commu- with fun and delicious ting themselves to treats for the entire nity safe. helping those in need. family. The festival Through public service features a pie-eatprojects and volunteer ing contest, bounce opportunities, the Inhouses and, of course, teract Club gives stusome tasty seafood. dents a way to both Proceeds from the exgive back and foster their own leadership perience are donated to local and globskills. al charities, with over $10,000 in funds The Interact Club is designed to con- raised last year to benefit Everyday Blessnect students with leaders in the com- ings and The Rotary Foundation. Past munity through monthly guest speakers. service projects have also included roadFrom attorneys to public speaking profes- side cleanups, fundraising for elementasionals, students are exposed to a variety ry school libraries and landscaping local of interesting topics geared toward as- neighborhoods. sisting them in making their own career The club is open to all students ages choices. The main goal of the club, howev- 14-18 in the Tampa Bay area, but being a er, is to give every student the chance to member is not required to participate in experience firsthand the impact service community service events. Meetings are has on the environment and the people on the first Monday of each month from around them.

6-8 p.m. (with dinner provided) and are “The club focus is helping our students located at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary with leadership education and providing Event Center in Brandon. For more inforthem with opportunities to earn commu- mation, visit the club’s Facebook page at nity service hours,” said Chad Norgard, Interact Club of Tampa Bay or email inInteract Club advisor and former presi- teractbrandon86@gmail.com.

Page 20

Brandon/Winthrop Edition erts has been a practicing physician for four decades, most of that time being in holistic/ integrative/preventative medicine. Her practice has included many neuro patients with dementia, strokes, Parkinson’s, brain injuries and other conditions that may impact cognitive abilities in later years. Roberts will emphasize simple changes that you might find helpful.

Bring a pen and paper, as there will be many pearls you will want to remember. A Q&A will follow the 40-minute talk. This seminar is free and open to the public.

FEMA Help, Book Group, Craft Fair & More...

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Residents Impacted By Hurricane Idalia Can Apply For Federal Assis- Book Discussion Group At Bloomingdale Regional Library tance Hillsborough County residential property owners and renters whose homes sustained damage and losses from Hurricane Idalia can apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Individual Assistance programs.

The assistance could include financial help for temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses. To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, visit www.disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA app for smartphones or call 800-621-3362. Its phone lines are open from 7 a.m.-11 p.m. daily.

The Great Books Discussion Group of the Bloomingdale Regional Library will celebrate the start of its 14th season on Saturday, November 18 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with a discussion of Nobel Prize winner Toni Morrison’s powerful novel, The Bluest Eye. The meeting location for this free event will be room 211 of the library, which is located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. First-timers and visitors are welcome. For more information, please contact the moderator/ facilitator, Patrick DeMarco, at 813-672-9052 or pdemarco@tampabay.rr.com.

The Bridges Retirement Community Gifts & Crafts Fair Seeks Vendors

What You Can Do Now To Prevent The Bridges Retirement Community will be hosting its much-awaited annual Gifts & Crafts Dementia Tomorrow Knowing what to do to prevent late-onset brain problems — including Alzheimer’s disease — may make all the difference in life for you and your loved ones. If you are curious about this subject, come to a talk at Congregation Beth Shalom on Sunday, November 5 at 3 p.m. Cutting-edge medicine is finding many contributing factors that take decades to develop, many of which can be modified with corrective action on your part. Genetics is thought to be only 20 percent of the cause of any late-in-life chronic illness. Dr. Carol L. Rob-

Fair on Saturday, November 11 from 10 a.m.3 p.m. It is inviting vendors with unique and exceptional gifts and crafts to join it for the event. With the holiday season right around the corner, this event is the perfect opportunity to showcase your wares and to connect with customers looking for that special something. It has always been a huge success with positive feedback from both vendors and attendees.

Do not miss out on this opportunity.

For more information, contact Janet Noah, event organizer, at 813-413-8900 or jnoah@bridgesretirement.com.

Volume 18, Issue 10

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA SEEKS PARTICIPANTS TO CONTINUE LANDMARK DEMENTIA PREVENTION RESEARCH

By Kathy L. Collins Researchparticipating ers at the in this study, University of volunteers will South Floricontribute to da St. Petersour work on burg campus how to possibly have received prevent demena grant from The University of South Florida has received additional tia and have the funding from the National Institutes of Health that will the National allow it to continue its Active Mind study. The university potential to posInstitutes of is seeking participants for its Active Mind study, which itively impact Health’s (NIH) our lives and the aims to reduce dementia risk through brain training.

National Inlives of future stitute on Aging generations.” which will allow The Active Mind them to continue study examines their groundbreakwhether computering work in deized brain training mentia prevention. can reduce the risk Their clinical research study is called of dementia. Dementia prevention reActive Mind. search takes on increased urgency, as no If you are 65 years or older or if you proven treatments exist to cure Alzheihave mild cognitive impairment, you mer’s disease, the most common form of may join them in the fight in dementia dementia, which affects more than 5 milprevention. People who do not have de- lion Americans. mentia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, and The Active Mind study builds on rehave not had a stroke or serious brain search by the study scientists showing injury but do have some problems with that certain computerized brain training memory may qualify. Participants who may reduce risk of dementia by 29-48 are African American or Hispanic Amer- percent across 10 years. ican are especially needed as particiActive Mind participants will be asked pants. African Americans and Hispanic to complete the in-person study visits Americans are at an increased risk for across two years and complete at least 40 dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. hours of computerized exercises. Enrolled Community participation is critical to study participants will receive a free the success of this study. According to iPad®. If you are interested in the Active Dr. Jennifer O’Brien, associate professor Mind study, you may participate at either of psychology and investigator of the St. the University of South Florida St. PetersPetersburg campus, “Research suggests burg or Tampa campuses. that delaying the onset of dementia by For more information, visit https:// a single year would result in millions of activemindstudy.com/ or call 727-873fewer cases over the next 30 years. By 4090.

Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes

“Church like it used to be.”

“We love because “We love because He first loved us.”

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of GLOWWORM SOLUTIONS located at 9504 Starlite Dr, in Hillsborough County, in the city of Riverview Florida, 33578 intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida

1 John 4:19

Doctor Malcom S. Clements- Pastor

First Baptist Church of Gibsonton

Dated at Valrico, Florida this 23rd day of October 2023

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (never known to fail)

O Most beautiful flowers 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). There 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).

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Page 22

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

PICKLEBALL WITH AN IMPACT WILL HOST SECOND SEMIANNUAL TOURNAMENT IN NOVEMBER

By Lily Belcher

IMPACT is hosttime … and we just ing its second really thought this semiannual Pickwas really someleball with an IMthing,” Bradley PACT tournament said. “Plus, we did on Saturday, No[get] some feedvember 4 to raise back that they funds to support would like to see its mission. The it happen more tournament startoften from people ed in the spring that participated after the nonprofit in the one in the saw how popular spring.”

Pickleball with an IMPACT hopes to host 64 compickleball has beThere will be a petitors in its fall fundraiser tournament. come. beginner, interme“[We chose to host a pickleball tour- diate and advanced leagues, so any skill nament] because pickleball was the fast- level is welcomed to participate. In adest-growing sport in America. … There dition to the tournament, there will be a doesn’t seem to be any fundraisers or a silent auction and raffle baskets to raise lot of local tournaments that people can funds for IMPACT’s mission. play in,” IMPACT educator and board Unlike its inaugural event in the spring, member Tammy Bradley said. “So, we just Pickleball with an IMPACT will offer thought it was an untapped resource.” team tickets for two competitors to sign The tournament will replace this year’s up together. Individual tickets are availIMPACT Celebration gala, which was able for $55 and team tickets are availcancelled due to scheduling conflicts. able for $100. A ticket includes a spot in While Bradley does not plan to perma- the tournament, a T-shirt and a Chicknently cancel the gala in the future, she fil-A lunch. does believe the semiannual tournament Corporate sponsorship opportunities will have a lasting role in the organiza- are available. Prices range from $1,000 tion. for tournament sponsors to $100 for a “I think people in the community are courtside sign. just loving to play and it’s just a good opIMPACT aims to support students, portunity to come out, have fun, learn a parents and teachers with resources and little bit about IMPACT and what we do skills to navigate high-risk behaviors, and why we do it and hopefully help sup- such as drug and alcohol use and sexual port it,” Bradley said. activity.

The event will take place from 8 a.m.-2 For more information or to register for p.m. Bradley hopes to host 64 competi- the event, visit www.whatisimpact.com tors to fill High 5 Inc.’s eight courts. or contact Bradley at tbrad910@gmail.

“We had such a successful turnout last com or 813-294-7885.

NOTICE OF HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY’S INTENT OF ISSUE AN EXEMPTION PERMIT WITHIN CERTAIN MANATEE PROTECTION AREAS Notice is hereby given that on or after October 30, 2023, Hillsborough County intends to issue an exception permit to Branden Mccorkle, exempting said permittee from compliance with manatee-related speed restrictions while conducting commercial fishing/ professional guide activities within the following Hillsborough County Manatee Protection areas. Alafia River, Bahia Beach, Big Bend, Bull Frog Creek, Cockroach Bay and Harbor Bay. Any substantially affected party may appeal this decision in the accordance with the procedure set forth in Hillsborough County Manatee Protection Ordinance No. 01-32. For a copy of the permit application , the proposed permit , ordinance No. 01-32 or further information, contact Mr. Stephen Decatur. Marine safety coordinator, compliance, communities & conservation department, at 813-285-8066.

October 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

JOIN KELLER WILLIAMS SUBURBAN TAMPA REALTY TEAMS FOR A SPOOKTACULAR TRUNK-OR-TREAT Staff Report The Tony Bara perfect comoni Team at Keller panion to the eveWilliams Suburban ning’s festivities.

Tampa is thrilled to There will also invite the commube food trucks nity to the highly on-site for other anticipated annutasty treats. al Keller Williams • Costumes: Don Suburban Tampa your spookiest, Tr u n k - o r -Tr e a t funniest or most event. Prepare for creative costumes.

Bring your family and join in on the fun at the a spine-tingling, annual Keller Williams Suburban Tampa Trunk“We are thrilled family-friendfor this year’s or-Treat event on Thursday, October 26. ly experience on Tr u n k - o r -Tr e a t Thursday, October 26 at event for the community,” the Keller Williams Realty said Tony Baroni, owner of Suburban Tampa parking the Tony Baroni Team at lot, located at 2350 E. SR Keller Williams Suburban 60 in Valrico. The festivities begin at 5:30 Tampa. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for p.m. and end at 7:30 p.m. families to come together, enjoy a safe This spirited event promises an eve- and fun Halloween celebration and expening of ghoulish delights and community rience the spirit of community that Keller engagement. Families are encouraged to Williams Realty is known for.” come and enjoy a safe and enjoyable HalThe Tony Baroni Team at Keller Willoween celebration. liams Suburban Tampa has earned over Event Highlights: 2,400 five-star reviews in part because • Trick-or-Treating: Delight in the age- of their dedication in giving back to and old tradition of trick-or-treating and supporting the communities in which amass a mountain of sweet treats. Candy their clients live. The Keller Williams Subgalore awaits the little ones. urban Tampa team’s annual event is just • Haunted Maze: Venture into a spooky one of many events the Tony Baroni Team maze that promises thrills and chills highlights throughout the year. around every corner.

Join the entire team of Keller Williams • Face Painting: Unleash your imagi- Suburban Tampa agents in the parking nation and transform into your favorite lot in Valrico on October 26, for a memocharacter with the help of face painters. rable evening of trick-or-treating, laughA dash of color and a stroke of creativity ter and spooky surprises. Don’t forget to await. dress up in your favorite costume.

• Popcorn Delights & Food Trucks: SaVisit www.tonybaroni.com or call 866vor the taste of freshly popped popcorn, 505-6115 for more information.

Page 23

CANOPY ROAD CAFÉ

SERVING A HOME TOWN FEEL FOR BREAKFAST AND LUNCH

By Lily Belcher

Canopy Road Café oflunch, including starters, fers a family and commuhealthy eats, pancakes nity-centered atmosphere and waffles, a variety at its restaurants. With of eggs, omelets, sandlocations in FishHawk, in wiches, burgers and Brandon on Causeway much more. It recently Boulevard and a third loreleased its fall specialty cation on Bloomingdale items, including pumpkin Avenue in Winthrop on spice pancakes, a breakthe way, co-owner Chris fast Cuban, the ‘Bacon Johnson stays busy while Lovers Bennie’ and the helping run his neighborchicken tinga burrito. It hood café off FishHawk Canopy Road Café offers customers will also continue to proCrossing Boulevard along- a community-focused restaurant at mote its gift certificate its locations. side his wife and kids. and other giveaways on Johnson’s wife, Jessie, has an extensive social media. business background that allows her to The FishHawk location will also feature support Canopy Road’s FishHawk restau- alcohol soon, including mimosa flights rant while Johnson balances his time be- with multiple juice options, wine and beer. tween the FishHawk and Brandon stores. Both Johnson and his wife have bartending Johnson’s kids have even asked to pitch in backgrounds from when they lived in New too by helping their parents roll silverware York, and the addition of alcohol to the when they aren’t in school. menu allows them to expand their offerings “I do like to teach them this is where it to customers. all comes from. You’ve got to work for it,” “It became very evident to me very quick Johnson said. “It’s a family affair at the that in this specific neighborhood location, FishHawk location.” it’s kind of a critical aspect to have to offer Canopy Road Café FishHawk fosters a to the community,” Johnson said. strong community feel with several regAt the end of fall, Canopy Road Café will ulars and neighbors frequenting the café. open its third Tampa location at Winthrop Johnson said he loves his neighborhood’s Town Centre. The Bloomingdale expansion location near Publix at FishHawk Ranch will be the largest of the cafés in the area because he runs into his customers around and will be the first to feature a full bar. town and can focus on building relation“It’s who we are. We’re restaurant peoships. ple to the core. I couldn’t imagine doing “It definitely has more of the family feel. anything else,” Johnson said.

We get families in here because it is a famCanopy Road Café is open daily from ily neighborhood. … It’s all family,” Johnson 6:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m. For information, visit said. www.canopyroadcafe.com. Canopy Road Canopy Road Café offers both tradition- Café FishHawk is located at 5614 Fishhawk al and specialty items for breakfast and Crossing Blvd. in Lithia in the Publix plaza.

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Page 24

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

Brandon/Winthrop

October 2023, Vol. 18, Iss. 10

See Ad On Page 29 Angel Foundation FL Celebrates Gift Shop Anniversary With Ribbon-cutting

bring their passion for woodworking, crafting and most things DIY to the business. AR Workshop is a boutique studio offering handson craft classes, group activities, The Angel Foundation FL, private parties and a curated sea caring resource for families lection of gifts and on-trend home in our community experiencdecor. It also hosts local businesses ing a temporary crisis due to for team-building events as well as a life-threatening illness or fundraising support and hands-on catastrophic event, recently training with tools for scout troops. celebrated the first anni- The Angel Foundation recently celebrated the one-year AR Workshop is always looking to versary of its gift shop, loanniversary of the gift shop with a ribbon-cutting. expand offerings, so it welcomes cated at the HCA Florida Tamara Buzbee is the new as a photographer who methe opportunity to work with New AR Workshop Brandon owners RaBrandon Hospital, with a Valrico FishHawk morializes events to preserve District 10 president of Manyou and/or your business. Simchel O’Connell and John Roder. ufactured Home Owners of Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting. The memories and improve the ply send a request and the team wrong beneficiary, misunFlorida Inc. gift shop space is generously donated by the mobile home quality and lifewill do what they can to make it happen. AR derstanding of legal terms, fraud, unplanned hospital and all proceeds from store sales go style.

Workshop Brandon is located in Plaza Bella contingencies and more. right back into helping families in the comTamara is dedicated to building a respectat 1046 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For Elijah Heath, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® and munity. For more information on the Angel ful relationship between the FMO park repremore information, call 813-775-7109 or visit Foundation FL, visit https://angelfoundation- sentatives and the manufactured home com- Heath Wealth Management LLC will be host- www.arworkshop.com/brandon/. ing a workshop that will review traditional fl.com/. munity so “they have a person they can go to estate planning strategies along with smart, with their concerns.” new techniques that traditional estate plan- Award-winning Challenge Island Local Resident Appointed As STEAM Programs Now In Southning may not have addressed.

FMO District 10 President Heath Wealth Management LLC The workshop, which includes downtown east Hillsborough The Federation of Manufactured Home To Host Estate Planning Work- brunch, will be held at Heron’s rooftop, locatChallenge Island South Hillsborough CounOwners of Florida Inc. (FMO) is pleased to ed at 815 Water St. in Tampa, at 10:30 a.m. ty wants to bring STEAM (science, technolshop announce that Tamara Buzbee is the new Did you know 67 percent of Americans do on Saturday, November 11. Seating is limited ogy, engineering, arts and mathematics) to District 10 president who covers Hillsbornot have an estate plan? According to 40 and interested parties must RSVP you. Offering STEAM enrichment ough County. percent of survey respondents, the biggest to Sandra Massengale at s.masprograms in a mobile capacity, the Buzbee, after 30 years working as a school reason why is ‘they just ha- sengale@lpl.com or 813-556-7171. award-winning Challenge Island bus driver, bookkeeper, disven’t gotten around to it,’ program and curriculum are detrict secretary and TABE while 33 percent indicated New Owners Continue signed to meet the needs of two tester, is retiring from the they don’t think they have Great Experiences At AR entities: today’s playful, imaginative School District of Hillsborenough assets. child and tomorrow’s empowered, Workshop Brandon ough County.

Of those Americans who globally successful adult. Kids work together AR Workshop Brandon is your destinaBuzbee is a resident of StrawBerry Ridge have an estate plan, many have plans that for hands-on learning in programs that use tion for all things DIY. New owners Rachel Village, where she serves on the HOA board don’t work out exactly as intended for a variimagination and teamwork.

The Challenge IsO’Connell and John Roder are excited to as a director and on the events committee ety of reasons, including wrong registration, Continued on next page.......

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

EYE ON BUSINESS.....CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

By Jenny Bennett land program offers after-school enrichment, Florida Strawberry Festival Anaward-winning camps, on-site field trips, nounces Theme For 2024 Event birthday parties and more.

The Florida Strawberry Festival recently For more information or to book a Chal- announced the theme for its 89th annual lenge Island program, visit https://chal- event: “Out of This World!” lenge-island.com/south-hillsborough-county/.

“The sky’s the limit,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson. “Our Riverview Internal Medicine Now board of directors, staff and maintenance crew have been hard at work this summer Open And Seeing Patients Riverview Internal Medicine is excited to planning and preparing an ‘out of this world’ experience for all our guests. We announce it is now open look forward to welcoming visiand seeing patients. Dr. tors from far and wide to BerrySalman Ahmed, M.D. is a Fest24.” compassionate physician A new theme is created for who has been in practice each year’s festival to offer pafor over 20 years. The trons a glimpse of the experipractice offers essential ence they will have at the 11-day services, including manevent. It also unifies vendors, FFA aging high blood pressure, chapters, organizations, corpodiabetes, congestive heart rate partners and exhibitors, who failure, women’s health, create parade floats and displays hormone replacement throughout the event. therapy and more. Riverview Internal Medicine also has a focus on preventative medicine. Ahmed’s practice is The Florida Orchestra Names conveniently located at 13113 Vail Ridge Dr. Principal Oboe And Bass Musiin Riverview at the cross section of U.S. 301 cians and Big Bend Road in the medical complex As the new season begins, The Florida Orbehind Publix. Its office hours are Monday chestra has named Mark Debski as principal through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and has apoboe and Ryan Sujdak as principal bass, fillpointment availability on Saturday. For more ing two key positions in Florida’s largest proinformation, visit www.riverviewinternalfessional orchestra under the artistic leadmedicine.com or call 813-257-0342.

Volume 18, Issue 10

ership of music director Michael Francis. In total, the orchestra welcomes nine new musicians to its first full season. All have won highly competitive blind auditions that attracted nearly 200 candidates from around the nation and world.

As the principal oboe, Debski fills one of the top-tier positions in the orchestra of 70 full-time musicians and conductors. Seated in the middle of the stage, the principal oboe is often featured in major works and traditionally tunes the orchestra before the performance begins. Florida native Sujdak will be TFO’s first new principal bass in nearly 50 years. He succeeds Dee Moses, who retired last season after 47 years with the orchestra.

Visit https://floridaorchestra.org/musicians/ for more information on the musicians with The Florida Orchestra.

of Tampa and brings the voice of our prospects and clients to our advisory board.”

Raulerson is a certified public accountant, as well as the owner of Raulerson Castillo & Company, a full-service public accounting and business consulting firm with locations in Plant City and Brandon.

Little Cheesecake Company Serves Up Decadent Cheesecakes And Baked Goods

Little Cheesecake Company started business from owner Maribel Neto’s kitchen. Word of her decadent New York-style cheesecakes soon spread, and Neto later opened her location at 143 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon in July. Since then, it has gone from strength to strength, serving a wide variety of specialty cheesecakes, brownies, dessert cups, cheesecake-stuffed apples, cheesecake-filled donuts Dan Raulerson Appointed To The and teas and coffees. All items are made from Bank Of Tampa’s Brandon Advi- scratch. Its cheesecakes are offered whole or sory Board by the slice, and they can be made to order The Bank of Tampa today anwith 48 nounced the appointment of Dan hours’ noRaulerson to its Brandon Advisory tice. For Board. more in“We are so fortunate to bring Dan formation, onto our Brandon Advisory Board,” visit its said Scott Gault, Hillsborough Counwebsite at ty market president at The Bank of https://litTampa. “A long-standing member of tlecheesethe Eastern Hillsborough community, Dan cakecompanyllc.godaddysites.com/ or call brings a lifetime of connections to The Bank 813-438-5020.

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October 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 27

EVERY KID OUTDOORS PROGRAM PROVIDES FOURTH GRADERS FREE ACCESS TO NATIONAL PARKS

By Jane Owen Do you have a fourth grader this school year or know someone who does? If so, this year is the perfect time for a trip to visit a national park. As part of the government’s Every Kid Outdoors program, fourth graders and their families can get free access to hundreds of parks for an entire year.

Park entry is free with a pass from the program. The pass is valid for the duration of the fourth grade school year through the following summer (September through August) and it is available for all U.S. fourth graders, including homeschooled and free choice learners. The pass grants access to up to three adults and all kids traveling with the fourth grader.

To get the pass, either a parent or a teacher needs to help the fourth grader navigate the https://everykidoutdoors. gov/ website. There the student will fill in a short fill-in-the-blank story and enter their zip code, after which they will be given a pass that can be printed and used for entry. Note, the pass must be printed out for access.

Fourth grade teachers can ensure their

students get passes. The website contains an educator area where fourth grade educators can download an activity and print paper passes for each student.

Debi Dowd, a fourth grade teacher at Cimino Elementary in Valrico, loves the Every Kid Outdoors program and the ease of using its website.

“It’s super easy and engaging to use. I’ve already printed off passes for each kid in my class and the lessons that are offered in a variety of topics, such as Exploring Federal Lands and Waters, Environmental Stewardship, Our Nations Native Peoples and Citizen Science. I love that there is information for both parents and educators,” Dowd said.

Every Kid Outdoors was created so fourth graders and their families could discover the wildlife, resources and history of the United States for free. The program was first launched as Every Kid in a Park in 2015 and has been authorized by Congress through 2026. Detailed information about the passes and an area for exploring parks and sites to visit is available on the Every Kid Outdoors website at https://everykidoutdoors.gov/.

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Page 28

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

FOX SQUIRREL CORN MAZE BRINGS

AUTUMN ENCHANTMENT TO WEEKENDS NOW THROUGH NOVEMBER 5 Staff Report Fall into a whirlfall and Halloween wind of autumn endecor enthusiasts. chantment at the Fox Families can create Squirrel Corn Maze in unique, decorative Plant City. Tickets are pumpkins at the Fox on sale now for the Squirrel Corn Maze’s annual event, which painting stations. Inruns on weekends stagram-worthy locathrough Sunday, Notions throughout the vember 5. festive area provide The excitement wonderful photo ops knows no bounds, as Guests in Fox Squirrel Corn Maze’s 5-acre perfect for fall family fall comes alive with memories. corn maze. the magic of harvest There’s something and Halloween. The for everyone at this Fox Squirrel Corn festival fall extravMaze is open from aganza, including 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on hayrides through the Saturdays and Suncypress woods, camdays, and it includes el rides, a corn pit, a 5-acre corn maze, badminton, family the area’s largest cornhole games and pumpkin patch, tasty duck races for the littreats, games and actle ones. Food Trucks tivities for the entire will provide tasty family. treats and refreshing Guests can chal- Grab a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch beverages to satisfy and enjoy the games and activities. lenge their tracking all your cravings. The skills through the dynamic labyrinth of Fox Squirrel Corn Maze is the place for 6-foot-tall corn stalks that is full of twists fall fun! and turns. The brand-new pumpkin house It is located at 6151 Varn Rd. in Plant leads to the patch filled with pumpkins of City. Parking is free. Tickets cost $12 all shapes and sizes. Also new this year is (includes tax), but children ages 3 years a 30-foot-by-50-foot jump pad that pro- old and under enter for free. Some acvides an exhilarating experience for all tivities, such as face painting, pumpkin ages. The large, flat surface area allows painting and animal encounters, will rea multitude of patrons to soar together quire an additional fee. Gate closes at 5 with delight. p.m.; guests must exit by 6 p.m. For more Custom wildflower bouquets and information or to purchase tickets, visit pumpkins galore make this a haven for https://foxsquirrelcornmaze.com/.

YOUR NEW ADDICTION!

Volume 18, Issue 10

TRU AESTHETICS OFFERS

AFFORDABLE AND COMFORTABLE TREATMENTS FOR ANY PATIENTS

By Lily Belcher

Tess Gates, ownhelping people feel er of and nurse better,” said Gates. practitioner injecGates is currenttor at TRU Aesly offering free thetics, believes consultations to in inspiring confinew patients and dence. That priortheir choice of Boity, combined with tox or Dysport for her 17 years of exjust $10 per unit. perience in health Gates’ priority is care, prompted her to create personto open her med al relationships spa office in April. with her patients, “I recognized gaining trust and there was a need becoming their for an aesthetics “go-to, long-term practice that put a provider for everypriority on the pathing related to antients’ needs rather tiaging, skin health Tess Gates, owner of and nurse practitioner than the needs of injector at TRU Aesthetics, hopes to create per- and wellness.” the business,” ex- sonal relationships with her clients by building The Brandon natrust. plained Gates. “I tive serves around aspired to establish 100 patients a a business where month. With almy top priority most two decades was honesty and in health care, dual integrity and realcertifications and ly create a space experience workwhere patients can ing for numerous feel comfortable med spas, Gates sharing insecurities and vulnerabilities.” has an edge and the skills to help all paMeeting these patients’ needs, Gates tients. said, should be done without pressure or “I believe confidence is beautiful, and urgency to spend money on unnecessary helping people feel confident is my pastreatments. sion,” said Gates.

TRU Aesthetics is a niche practice TRU Aesthetics is located at 1218 Milfocused on facial contouring, antiaging, lennium Pkwy. off Pauls Drive. To book skin rejuvenation and wellness. an appointment, visit TRU Aesthetics’ “I take a personal approach to every website at https://mytruaesthetics. patient I have and genuinely care about com/ or contact 813-696-1710.

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October 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

MEDICARE INFORMATION PROJECT HELPS THE COMMUNITY WITH THEIR MEDICARE CHOICES

Page 29

EXPERT CUSTOM FRAMING for those special fall memories

By Libby Hopkins With the annumularies to make al election period sure your docjust around the tors, hospitals corner, decipherand prescription ing Medicare can drugs are covbe a difficult task. ered. We provide Luckily, Greg information in an Wohl, Jennifer objective manner Loader-Wohl and with no obligatheir licensed tion to you.” agents at Medi- With the annual election period around the corner, Medicare Incare Information deciphering your Medicare options can be a diffi- formation ProjProject are here cult task. Luckily, Greg Wohl, Jennifer Loader-Wohl ect’s insurance and their licensed agents at Medicare Information agents are lito help.

Project are here to help.

The mission of censed to offer Medicare Inforplans from 17 mation Project insurance comis to educate and panies, repreempower Medisenting over 140 care-eligible beneficiaries by providing plans, which include Medicare Suppleobjective information through its net- ments, Medicare Advantage Plans (Part work of independent agents. Its agents C) and drug plans (Part D). “Your health go over all your coverage options and care decisions are very important,” find the plan that best fits your specific Wohl said. “We do business differently health care needs within your budget. “I because we believe that you are unique originally wanted to be a stockbroker, and everyone deserves a one-on-one but I had a life-changing illness at 26 consultation.” years old and I had a lot of medical bills,” At Medicare Information Project, Wohl explained. “I got into the insurance keeping things local is very important. business in 1999 and I wanted to help “It’s all about building relationships people make the right choices when it within our community,” Wohl said. “We came to insurance and Medicare, so I are here to help anyone in the commudecided to start my own company a few nity who is unsure about their Medicare years later.” needs.”

Medicare Information Project is a If you would like to learn more about health insurance brokerage located in Medicare Information Project, you can Brandon. “We are a team of trusted, visit its website at https://medicareinfoindependent, licensed insurance profes- pro.com/ or call 813-699-5559. sionals that provide assistance in navMedicare Information Project’s office igating your Medicare options,” Wohl is located at 915 Oakfield Dr., Ste. A in said. “We research networks and for- Brandon.

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Page 30

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

TWISTED SUGAR’S RIVERVIEW

LOCATION OFFERS COOKIES, TWISTERS AND SODAS FOR CUSTOMERS

By Lily Belcher

Twisted Sugar At the beginfranchise ownning of Septemer Shawn Boer ber, Boer opened opened his goura Twisted Sugar met cookie store in cookie truck to Riverview nearly a offer a mobile opyear ago. Twisted tion for events Sugar offers cusand parties. He is tom sodas and ice hoping to book the cream smoothies truck for a funcat the Riverview tion every day to location, including bring his cookies its famous gourand twisters to met cookies. the community.

Twisted Sugar offers gourmet cookies and “I tell everybody “My favorite custom sodas in addition to its ice cream they’re the best cookies are the key smoothie twisters. cookies you’ll ever lime pie and the eat. We have over 100 flavors of custom butterbeer cookies, and I recommend sodas and we have ice cream smoothies the twisters because the ice cream that will change your life,” Boer said. smoothies are just incredible,” Boer recTwisted Sugar was started in Boer’s ommended. home state of Idaho. He loved visiting Twisted Sugar has also sponsored the stores near him and decided to open spirit nights for local schools, including his own franchise around two years ago Sumner High School and Riverview FFA. after watching his friend find success Boer and his nine employees make all with his own franchises. Boer has a their cookies from scratch every day to background in sales and company man- offer fresh products to their customers. agement, skills he brought to his fran“Everybody loves cookies and it’s nice chise in Riverview. to provide a high-quality cookie to peo“[I] just traveled the country for a ple who thoroughly enjoy it because it’s couple years in an RV and figured out a good cookie,” Boer said. “I tell them it’s I wanted to live in Florida,” Boer said. the best cookie they’ll ever eat, and they “… When we decided to do something agree. So, it’s nice to see people enjoy like this, we went to every cookie store your creations and what you’re doing.” there was … and we bought all the cookFor information about Twisted Sugar ies they had.” or place an order, visit https://twistedAfter purchasing a number of cookies sugar.com/. To book Twisted Sugar for from different stores, he had his neigh- an event, call 813-672-2786. Twisted bors sample the different options, and Sugar is located at 13159 U.S. Hwy. 301 they picked Twisted Sugar’s cookies as in Riverview in the Summerfield Square their favorite.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

October 2023

BAIT AND TACKLE OF APOLLO BEACH NOW OFFERING BOAT RENTAL, ROD REPAIR AND MORE

By Melissa Hartmann J.C. Kruczewski, ownRod repair is also er of Bait and Tackle of available in the shop.

Apollo Beach, is celeOne of the newest brating seven years in ventures for Kruczewsbusiness. ki is boat rentals. Boat “It seems like yesterrental is $600 for a day when we started full day. Boats will be with 750 sq. ft. space dropped off at E.G. Simand only one small homemons or Williams Boat made tank for bait,” said Ramps. Boating experiKruczewski, ence is a must for proToday, Bait and Tackspective renters. le of Apollo Beach has “The difference beBait and Tackle of Apollo Beach expanded to over 3,000 tween us and the larger square feet with 22 feet owner J.C. and ‘Papa’ Kruczewski have boat rental companies worked together to expand the shop of fiberglass shrimp is there are no up-front over the last seven years. tanks with small, mefees, no monthly fees dium, large and jumbo and you can rent anyshrimp for bait and a septime depending on availabilarate tank for pinfish bait. ity,” explained Kruczewski.

There are also three freez“My dad, Julius Sr. — or ers full of frozen bait.

‘Papa,’ as he is known to evKruczewski likes to make eryone — has always been it easy for his customers the biggest supporter of when they’re trying to park my shop since day one. He their boats to shop for their fishing needs. used to come work a few days a week or “Customers can call in their order the day just come in and talk with me. Recently, his before and pull up in the back, ring the door- health has not been good and he hasn’t been bell and we will deliver their order to them,” in the shop, but that hasn’t stopped him he said. from worrying about me and the success of The shop carries a large selection of tack- the shop. He talks about the shop to me just le and rods for beginners, weekend fisher- like we were sitting behind the counter,” remen and every level in between, along with flected Kruczewski. a wide variety of merchandise and apparel.

Bait and Tackle of Apollo Beach strives “We carry a large assortment of fishing to be the best bait shop on this side of the rods from companies, including Redbone, bay and will continue to bring in the newest Tsunami, Okuma and Penn. We also carry merchandise and the freshest bait for cusBull Bay Rods, high-quality rods made right tomers. here in Lakeland. They offer a special lifeThe store is located at 6040 N. U.S. 41 in time warranty on their rods,” said Krucze- Apollo Beach and can be reached at 813wski.

296-7735.

Page 31

k w a H h Fis TROT

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Page 32

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

BLOOMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL HOSTS SITE FOR OASIS OPPORTUNITIES

By Jane Owen OASIS (Outreach school. She is thrilled Assisting Students that Bloomingdale in Schools) Opporcontinues to partner tunities is an orgawith OASIS. nization that pro“Prior to the panvides necessities to demic, Bloomingdale Hillsborough County personnel wanted students in need. to start their own The nonprofit has six clothes closest, programs that serve Shutts & Bowen Business Donation Drive. which was way out students (pre-K-12) of the school’s scope, in all 250 schools so I reached out to within the Hillsborough OASIS to partner as beCounty School District. It ing a drop-off site so that was established in 2001 we could help them fulfill and has grown to service needs,” Parsley said. over 11,000 students per year.

Donations for OASIS can be brought Bloomingdale High School is a drop- to Bloomingdale’s front office. The off site. OASIS Opportunities executive most-needed items include: director Dawn Shulman is grateful for · New or gently used clothing (uniform the difference that Bloomingdale is hav- and nonuniform styles, including youth ing. sizes 2T to adult 5X).

“Partnerships with organizations like · Tennis shoes.

Bloomingdale High School ensure that · New socks and underwear (youth and OASIS Opportunities can provide all adult sizes). students with equal access to essen· Hygiene items (toothbrushes, toothtials like clothing and hygiene items for paste, deodorant, shampoo, lotion, hairschool. These items are critical to help- brushes for all hair types and soap). ing students build their self-confidence, Local families in need can get support feel like they fit in with their peers and for students by calling their school’s ofmeet school dress code requirements,” fice and requesting to speak to the school Shulman said. social worker. Businesses and commuOASIS Opportunities works closely nity members can also help OASIS Opwith school social workers. The social portunities serve students by hosting workers identify students in need and a clothing or hygiene item drive, volunensure they get the necessary resourc- teering at an OASIS site or sponsoring es to overcome barriers for attending the OASIS Pop-Up Shop. For more inforschool daily. mation about OASIS Opportunities and Flossie Parsley, Bloomingdale High how to help, visit www.oasisopportuniSchool social worker, has utilized OA- ties.org. For questions about donating at SIS Opportunities on a routine basis to Bloomingdale High School, contact Parsensure students have clothes to wear to ley at flossie.parsley@hcps.net.

Volume 18, Issue 10

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

October 2023

Page 33

BROOK PRESSURE WASHING SERVICES GREATER TAMPA BAY AREA

By Makenzie Atkins Noel Make your life pursue pressure easy this year and washing. Prior to hire a passionate joining the compaprofessional to help ny full time, Carly keep your home was a Hillsborclean and looking ough County Public nice.

Schools teacher for Brook Pressure 16 years in Valrico Washing serves the and Lithia. It was Greater Tampa Bay only a few years region with exterior Jeremey and Carly Brook started Brook Pressure ago she decided to cleaning services as Washing as a way to keep the community they join full time and have loved forever looking clean. well as holiday light now uses her skills set up, take down and storage. of coaching and connecting with others to Brook Pressure Washing offers both help with the team and clients at Brook residential and commercial services, with Pressure Washing. pricing beginning at $200. Services ofWhile the Brooks had no prior experifered at Brook Pressure Washing include ence owning and operating a business, they house or building washing; fence, pool knew that with a little passion they could cage and concrete cleaning; paver sealing; create something amazing. After over six gutter cleaning; solar panel cleaning; and years of operating the business, the Brooks more. The company can service most of decided to open a second company.

Hillsborough, Eastern Polk, and Southern The new business, Brook Holiday LightPasco counties. ing, offers holiday light installation during “My wife, Carly, and I are both natives the holiday season. The Brooks can service of Brandon and we love to support local commercial and residential spaces with small businesses to keep our communi- holiday decorations. Brook Holiday Lightty growing and find it a privilege to be a ing offers in-home design and consultasmall family-owned business here,” said tion, demonstration, custom-cut and hung Jeremey Brook, owner of Brook Pressure lights, worry-free maintenance, takedown Washing. and storage of all lights.

Wanting the opportunity to serve the The Brook companies have been decommunity that they grew up in and hav- signed to offer worry-free solutions for ing the desire to become an entrepreneur, problems you don’t want to deal with.

Jeremey started Brook Pressure Washing For more information about Brook Presback in 2014 as an owner-operator and sure Washing and Brook Holiday Lighting, has since grown the company to three please text or call Jeremey and Carly at trucks and seven employees.

813-537-3379. Visit https://brookpres“We enjoy the successes and challenges surewashing.com/ for more information of being an entrepreneur,” said Jeremey. on cleaning services and https://brookholIn 2014, Jeremey moved out of man- idaylighting.com/ for more on holiday light agement to become an entrepreneur and installation.

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Page 34

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

TIFFANY ACHILLE HOSTS

TOM GALLO LAW HELPS

Tiffany Achille, a willing to donate exBrandon resident, tra formula as well. started a formula After reaching out and diaper pantry on Facebook, she in 2015 after her had a constant supdaughter was born. ply from generous She had a lot of leftmoms in the area. over diapers and forShe works the mula from her newpantry out of her born and wanted a garage when she is way to help her comnot working as Citimunity. zens Bank & Trust’s “Someone told Valrico branch manme about a formula ager. Since startpantry just down the ing the pantry nine road from the bank years ago, she has I work at [in Valribeen able to help co]. I stopped by and hundreds of local the line was out the families and has door. It made me sad sent multiple cases that so many families of formula to Venewere in need of for- Tiffany Achille started a formula and dia- zuela. per pantry to help families in need after a mula,” Achille said.

“I have multiple local pantry closed.

After talking to shelves in my garage the lady who ran the pantry, she began to store formula and diapers,” Achille making regular donations and collect- said. “Any additional costs come from ing resources for these families in need. my pocket. Occasionally, I will not have However, about six months into helping, a type of formula someone is need of she found out the pantry was closing. so, I will either trade or go out and buy “This really worried me, as I knew on my own.” these families counted on getting forAfter the formula shortage and remula from this pantry weekly and call, Achille lost over half of her supwould have nowhere to get formula,” ply. While she is working to build back Achille said. “… I mentioned the pantry the supply, she is still seeing a decline closing to my little girl, Payton, who caused by the recall. was 4 at the time. … She said, ‘Mommy, To donate to Achille’s formula and why don’t you open your own?’” diaper pantry, email her at formulapaWith the motivation from her daugh- ntry0529@yahoo.com. To arrange a ter, Achille began purchasing as much pickup of four cans of formula and one formula as she could. She spoke with box of diapers a month from Achille, her daughter’s pediatrician, who was they can contact her by email.

Tom Gallo has been Did a family mema part of the Valriber die without a will co community for 20 or trust in place? Galyears. He has been lo said his firm can practicing law for 46 represent individuals years, and 35 of those through the probate years have been as process, but it tends Tom Gallo Law. “We to be costlier and take are an estate planning more time. “Probate and probate practice,” can take from five or Gallo said. “I do wills, six months to a year trusts and guardianto complete,” he said. ships.” Gallo attended “To avoid probate, Rutgers University as make sure that a will an undergraduate and or trust is in place then, after graduating so assets can more with honors, attended quickly go to heirs.”

William & Mary Law Keeping things loSchool. cal is very important Tom Gallo Law’s Tom Gallo has been a part of the Valrico to Gallo and his firm’s community for 20 years. He has been mission is to educate team. “I enjoy the inpracticing law for 46 years, and 35 of those its clients about the teraction with people, years have been as Tom Gallo Law. importance of planlearning about them ning for their future and their experiences and that of their famand, most of all, the ilies, as well as to satisfaction of seeing help them understand the smiles on their facthe documents that they will need to do es when we have helped them reach their so with simple and straightforward lan- goals,” Gallo said. “We have a great team at guage, in a friendly, family environment. the firm, who all realize that we are there “Everyone needs a will or a trust, whether to serve our clients and that the clients are your family is large or small, whether you the true bosses. We provide a comfortable are single, married, divorced or remar- environment for clients to make it easier ried,” Gallo said. “Everyone should make for them to make some of the most difficult sure that their assets go to the person or decisions that they will ever have to make persons they want them to go to.” in their lives.”

Gallo’s law firm offers a variety of legal For information, visit https://tomgalloservices, which include wills and trusts, el- law.com/ or call Gallo for a free consultader law, probate, guardianships and asset tion at 813-815-4529. Tom Gallo Law is protection. located at 2240 Lithia Center Ln. in Valrico.

FORMULA AND DIAPER PANTRY FOR FAMILIES IN NEED

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October 2023

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 35

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART WELCOMES FRONTIERS OF IMPRESSIONISM

THE MISSING PIECE THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS BASKERVILLE: A SHERLOCK HOLMES MYSTERY

The Tampa Museum The exhibition not of Art will host a new only traces the roots exhibit called Frontiers of Impressionism in of Impressionism: Paint19th-century France ings from the Worcester but also its expanArt Museum. The exhibit sion to Europe, the is on view now through United States and January 7, 2024. The beyond. Visitors can exhibition, which paints immerse themselves a vivid picture of the in the groundbreakThe Tampa Museum of Art welcomes a new global expansion and exhibition featuring Impressionists works of ing artistic techinfluence of Impres- art from the Worcester Art Museum’s collec- niques, including sionism, showcases 53 tion. This marks the exhibit’s Southern debut the penchant for ‘en works by renowned plein air’ (outdoor) in the first leg of an international tour. artists, including painting and the Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Ca- distinct brushwork that characterized the mille Pissarro, Mary Cassatt and more. movement.

A unique aspect of the Tampa Museum of A section of the exhibition takes a special Art’s showing is that many of these pieces look at the unique American rendition of Imwill be displayed for the first time outside pressionism, from its manifestation in landof the Worcester Art Museum in Massachu- scapes of the American West to its presence setts. This offers visitors a fresh look at his- in New England. Frontiers of Impressionism toric works. offers a panoramic view of a movement that Michael Tomor, the Penny and Jeff Vinik forever changed the world of art. executive director of the Tampa Museum of For a deeper look into the works of art Art, said, “Presenting these Impressionist that make up the exhibit, the Tampa Musemasterpieces is a testament to art’s endur- um of Art will offer related programming, ining ability to challenge and redefine conven- cluding docent-led tours and special events tions. Their significance transcends aesthet- throughout the duration of the exhibition. ic appeal, offering Tampa Bay audiences a The Tampa Museum of Art is located at crucial education on how art breaks from 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza in downtown Tamtradition.” pa. The museum is open Monday through Tomor added, “Thanks to our recent gal- Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Thurslery renovations, we are positioned better days from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. than ever to introduce larger-scale exhibiFor a full list of events and additional tions, such as Frontiers of Impressionism, details, please visit https://tampamuseum. which enrich educational experiences for org/. our community.”

Ken Ludwig's uproarious Comedy The Missing Piece Theatre trepid investigators as they Company, an all-volunteer B A S K E R V I L L E try to escape a dizzying web community theater, will of clues, silly accents, dispresent Ken Ludwig’s Baskguises and deceit. You will erville: A Sherlock Holmes be amazed that the cast of Mystery this month and in five can deftly portray more November. Shows will be than 40 characters. presented on Friday, October Bucko said, “Steven 27 and November 3; SaturStough and Gabby Winters day, October 28 and Novemportray two of the most faber 4; and Sunday, October mous characters in history 29 and November 5. as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. The Friday and Saturday Watson, and the remainshows will be presented at The Missing Piece Theatre ing three actors embody a 8 p.m. The Sunday matinees will present Ken Ludwig’s whopping 37 characters.

Baskerville: A Sherlock will be held at 2 p.m. All They range in ages from Holmes Mystery this month shows will be performed at 0-90, with some roles not and in November at the the Gem Theater located at beautiful Gem Theater in even being human. These ac118 NW 1st Ave. in Mulberry. tors will also astound you by Mulberry.

The cost of tickets is $15. They can be seamlessly switching between accents, inpurchased by visiting www.themissing- cluding German, Swedish, Scottish, Castilpiecetheatre.org. ian and British. Get ready to see costume Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery changes so quick that you will swear the is directed by local actor April Golombek, cast was larger.”

The Missing Piece Theatre’s artistic direcBucko added, “Our inaugural season is tor. The actors for the show include Ste- off to a great start. We have produced two ven Stough of Brandon, Steven Bucko of shows that not only follow our mission of Lithia, Brittany Thomas of Riverview, Gab- being audience-focused but also interact

by Winters of Brandon and Vince Evange- directly with our amazing audience memlista of Wesley Chapel. bers. We are so fortunate with our partComedic genius Ludwig transforms Ar- nership with the City of Mulberry and the thur Conan Doyle’s classic, The Hound of beautiful Gem Theater. We will produce the Baskervilles, into a murderously funny our fourth show in December as well as adventure. Sherlock Holmes is on the case. announce our full, four-show season for The male heirs of the Baskerville line are 2024.” being dispatched one by one. The Missing For more information, visit www.thePiece Theatre’s production portrays in- missingpiecetheatre.org.

I n S p e c i a l p a r t n e r s h i p w i t h C o n c o r d Th e a t r i c a l s

A sherlock holmes mystery

the gem theater, mulberry fl october 27-29 & N ovember 3-5 Fridays & Saturdays 8pm, Sundays 2pm get your tickets at:

themissingpiecetheatre.org

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Page 36

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10