Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop August 2022

If so, you or your high school-aged child may enjoy the new In teract club coming to Hillsborough Coun ty and Rotary District 6890 this month. This new youth-based organization, for ages 14-18, is the first community-based Interact club in District 6890. It is also one of less than a handful of communi ty-based Interact clubs in the United States.TheInteract Club of Tampa Bay (ICTB) is being created to serve the youth of Hillsborough County and provide re sources to the students to help prepare them with life and leadership skills as they transition to whatever avenue they choose to take after high school. The club’s intent is to prepare them for what comes next and educate them on all op tions available, whether that is college, trade school or serving in the military. The club is also focused on helping stu dents obtain community service oppor tunities, which will help the students as they apply for scholarships as well as teach them the importance of communi ty “Weservice.realized there was an opportuni ty to provide students with a dual-pur pose club opportunity that serves all the students of our county while preparing them for life after high school and providing com munity opportunitiesservice that teach them how to give back to their community.” said Chad Norgard, president of Brandon ’86 Rotary Club. Currently, Brandon ’86 Rotary Club is planning for 20-30 students to start o f thisTheyear.ICTB leadership team has chosen Financial Literacy as its first-year project and is currently working on the details for a fundraising project that will pro vide local elementary schools with books to help replenish their media centers and help children that need assistance with raising their reading scores. The Interact Club of Tampa Bay is be ing sponsored by Brandon ’86 Rotary Club. The chartering ceremony was held on August 8 at the Rivard-Simmons Ro tary Event Center in Brandon. For more information on joining the In teract club or Brandon ’86 Rotary Club, email info@brandon86rotary.com or call 813-653-4822. OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLETe Reduce Your Use Tampa Bay team alone diverted the waste from 8,000 single-use plastic items. Top scorers from the team were Tessa Melson in frst place, Daniel Gallagher in second, and Ashley Wyland in third. Tese individuals all earned more than 750 points, which qualifed them to receive eco-friendly prize items provided by the Re duce Your Use campaign. www.reduceyourusetampabay.org. CLUB By Christine Ans

Chalklines Educational Feature See Page 28 BRANDON ’86 ROTARY CHARTERS INTERACT SERVICE

tend to one of the cows

FFA advisor Casey Wood and her students Florida FFA State advisor Casey Wood’s students they Florida State Fair.

Visit

BRANDON FFA ALUMNI IS SEEKING SPONSORS FOR GREENHOUSE AND LAND LAB PROJECTS

attended the

raised ahead of the

Convention this year. IN THIS ISSUE: CULINARY CRUISE ...............PG 3 FOAMSTRAVAGANZA ..............PG 7 EYE ON BUSINESS ............PG 25 GECKO FLOOR CARE........................PG 26 FFA

Tis new youth-based organization, for ages 14-18, is the f rst community-based Interact club in District 6890

FOR TEENS

ObserverOsprey Rd.PinecrestLithia2109 33596FLValrico, EDDMECRWSS CustomerPostal STDPRSTD POSTAGEU.S. PAID FLTAMPA, #2397PERMIT August 2022 Volume 17, Issue 8 Ph: 813-657-2418 Brandon/Winthrop 33 EMPLOYMENT

The Brandon High School FFA Alumni chapter was founded near ly 100 years ago to promote lead ership skills, business success and personal growth while supporting theAscommunity.thechapter approaches the 100th year anniversary, secretary Lindsay Flynn said, “The goal this year is to get back out in the com munity, build con nections and to live out the ‘Living to Serve’ part of the FFASincemotto.”its incep tion, the chapter has hosted events,agriculture-relatedmanysuchaspetting zoos and Won ders of Wildlife Festivals, and helped young students with their FFA projects through its land lab. The lab is open from dawn to dusk and monitored by FFA advisor Casey Wood and a team of student leaders who help maintain the area. The chapter is cur rently working on updating its green house and plans to add crop rows and a butterfly garden by the end of the year. “[Brandon High School] and FFA chap ter have been around for a very long time, and that is something we like take a lot of pride in since not all the schools have been around this long,” said Wood. The alumni chap ter is composed of 67 members, with over 20 members who ac tively support and participate in events throughout the school year. The four-o f cer executive board is elected each year and gives members the op portunity to showcase leadership skills and foster friendships. “FFA provided me with friend ships, leadership skills, a passion for agriculture and science as well as a community of people that supports me to this day,” said Flynn. “Without any hesitation, I joined the alumni to give back to the organization that gave me soInmuch.”addition to supporting communi ty events, the alumni chapter started a scholarship in memory of Brandon FFA Alumni Becky Ensley, who died tragical ly in a car accident. To honor her role in the chapter, the scholarship supports students who plan to attend a technical school, community college or university. To join the FFA Alumni chapter, com plete the Google Form on its Facebook page @BrandonFFAalumni or email brandon f aalumni@gmail.com. By Lily Belcher

Do you know a student in grades 9-12 that may have an interest in leadership serveandportunitiesopchancetoin2022-23?

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS

Page 2 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

If you are interested in booking Chef Dave West’s Culinary Cruise, you can contact local travel agent Anna Maria Gentile of Cruise Planners at 914-325-9399 or via email at annamaria.gentile@cruiseplanners.com.

By Libby Hopkins

Chef Dave West’s Culinary Cruise on the Celebrity Apex is a seven-night cruise that will take place from April 1-8, 2023.

Hope for Her recieving a $6,500 check donated by Westfeld Insurance Foun dation and HUB International.

The economic fallout from the events of the last two years continues to hit some segments of the popula tion harder than others, includ ing nonprofits. This spring, the Westfield Insur ance donateternationalwithjoinedFoundationtogetherHUBInto$6,500to

Page 3Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022

Hope for Her to help families or businesses stabilize or recover from disasters as part of the Legacy of Caring program. Each year, Westfield’s independent insurance agents are invit ed to nominate a local nonprofit in their community to receive a donation from theTheprogram.Westfield Insurance Foundation, an independent private foundation en dowed by Westfield, awards the donation as an extension of the fundamental role that insurance plays every day in stabiliz ing families, businesses and communities in times of uncertainty. This year, the Legacy of Caring pro gram donated $625,000 to nonprofits across the country focused on helping underemployed families overcome bar riers in education, finance, housing and jobs as well as recover from disasters. “Our team at HUB International is al ways seeking out opportunities to volun teer and support our community,” said Mike Devereux, vice president. “We are proud of and grateful for andwherecommunitiesimpactmoreagencywhichwithcollaborationourWestfield,helpsourmakeapowerfulonthewelivework.”“Wearesogratefulforthegenerous sup port of Hope for Her,” said Cheryl Hickman, executive director of Hope for Her. “The Legacy of Caring grant will have a di rect impact on our mission to provide a safe place where women experiencing crisis or trauma find the strength, skills and support they need to rebuild their best lives and will help families and busi nesses realize short-term successes with long-lasting outcomes.” “Together with our agency partners, Westfield continues to build on the strong commitment to caring that the founders of our company imagined,” said Ed Largent, Westfield president, CEO, board chair and Westfield Insur ance Foundation chairman. “We believe in the power of community, and we take immense pride in our ability to make meaningful contributions to better com munities across the country. It’s a great feeling to link arms with our agents and make an impact.”

LOCAL CHEF KICKS OFF FIRST CULINARY CRUISE

HUB INTERNATIONAL HELPS HOPE FOR HER WITH SPECIAL GRANT FROM WESTFIELD INSURANCE Staf Report

Chef Dave West, the former owner of The Rolling Pin, has moved onto the next phase of his culinary journey in life; he is taking his culinary talents to the high seas. “I graduated French Culinary Institute and I’ve been a chef for 20 years,” West said. “After retiring from The Rolling Pin Kitchen Empo rium in 2021, many friends, family and former customers urged me to continue with them in some sort of Gentiles.Annatravelingatassistantsourment.edutainfoodOneofculinaryTheRollPinisaagent,MariaShe helped put the thoughts into an actionable first trip.” Chef Dave West’s Culinary Cruise on the Celebrity Apex is a seven-night cruise that will take place from April 1-8, 2023. Guests will be aboard the Celebrity Apex, a Celebri ty Edge® Series ship which will depart from FortTheLauderdale.portsofcall are Fort Lauderdale, Nas sau, At Sea, Puerto Costa Maya, Cozumel, George Town, Grand Cayman, At Sea and FortAccommodationsLauderdale. include an infinite ve randa starting at $2,000 per person, de pending on category and cabin location. Also included are a classic beverage pack age, crew gratuities, Wi-Fi, taxes and port fees.Current promotions will be applied and discounts will be added at the time of booking. Ear ly booking is encouraged to take advantage of the current lower rates. Ocean view category and single quotes are also available. A $250 per person, nonre fundable deposit is due to confirm booking. While on the West2023forplannedofhavelights.linaryvariousexperienceguestscruise,willcude“WeanumberactivitiessofartheAprilcruise,”said.“A private group welcome cocktail party, hors d’oeuvres with the ship captain and culi nary leaders, a guided tour of the ships food production system, two separate food ses sions with agendas and a guided tour of the bridge.”West hopes to create an amazing experi ence for all who attend the culinary cruise. “There is a quote by Kellems Dominik that says, ‘It’s intellectual and emotional travel, the imagination is just endless. A curated group of very interesting people who are all like-minded around food.’ I think this sums up the experiences we hope to create.”

South Florida Baptist is a founding member of BayCare Health System, which was formed more than 25 years ago to continue providing not-for-profit health care to the Tampa Bay communi ty with a mission to provide high-quality compassionate care to all it serves. For more information, visit https:// baycare.org/.

LOCAL DAUGHTER AIM TO END WITH HELP FROM SUPPORT

Did you know that 49 percent of middle school through high school-aged girls will at some point miss an entire day of school due to their period? Well, a local FishHawk resident and her daughter, Meghan and Kay lin Armstrong, have been working hard to lower this per centage. Last year, the Armstrong fami ly decided to start a service project that helps get menstrual products to girls who need them in a dis creet way. The inspiration and motivation for creating this project came from the experience Kaylin had in which she start ed her period at a young age and only had access to menstrual products through her parents, as none were provided to her at school.In2021, Kaylin starred in a short film ti tled Code Red by director Jada Poon that depicted the lack of access to menstrual products in schools. In the film, a young girl gets her period and must skip class and go on an ‘adventure’ to find menstrual products. However, when a boy goes to the nurse to get a Band-Aid, he is easily able to get one, while the girl struggles and isn’t able to receive any menstrual products. The film as well as Kaylin’s experience led to the Armstrong family wanting to create a way for girls to have menstrual products readily available in their schools. For young girls, get ting their period can be a confusing time due to a lack of education, having irregular cycles and not having access to menstrual products at school or, in some cases, even at home. Within the first year of starting their project, the Arm strongs were able to create 300 pouches filled with menstru al products and dis tributed them to the clinics at local ele mentary and middle schools. Teachers also took the time to educate the girls about their bodies and cycles. The pouches create a more comfortable and discreet way to bring menstrual products to the bathroom. This year, the Armstrongs are working to decrease ‘period poverty’ at high-need schools in the Tampa area. Period poverty is when a girl doesn’t have any menstrual supplies because their family can’t aford them, which in turn causes many girls in these areas to miss school or even use toi let paper or tissues as menstrual products. The Armstrongs hope that with their pro gram, less girls will miss school because they will be able to easily access menstrual products when needed. To help with their goal, the Armstrongs are currently looking for product dona tions which can be purchased from their Amazon Wish List at zon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/33QCBIVOC1L1J.https://www.ama

South Florida Baptist Hospital team member Heather Coates signs the beam that topped the newest building around, marking a construction milestone for the future South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City.

FUTURE SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL TAKING SHAPE IN PLANT CITY Staf Report

Page 4 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

COMMUNITY

PERIOD INSECURITY

MOM AND

By Ella Martin Kaylin Armstrong with menstrual products and pouches that were distributed to the clin ics at local elementary and middle schools.

All eyes gazed upward as the highest beam topped the newest building around, marking a con struction mile stone for the fu ture South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City, just north of I-4. That steel beam was covered in messages from more than 100 supporters — including elected o f cials, business leaders, construction work ers and hospital team members — who signed before the ceremonial topping out.“We’re very grateful for the continued support of our community as we build this location to replace our original hos pital (301 N. Alexander St.),” said Karen Kerr, hospital president. “We know it means a lot to the people of Plant City.”

Ralph Garcia, chairman of the hospi tal’s board of trustees, noted the prog ress made since October’s groundbreak ing.“I learned a lot about what this hos pital means to the community,” he said. “I’ve had a chance to round with Karen and meet the team. I look at this hospi tal as another great tool that you can give to this team to help them care for this wonderful community and its sur rounding areas.” The 420,000-square-foot hospital, located o f Exit 22 of I-4, east of the East Sam Allen and N. Park Roads in tersection, will be 6 floors tall with two 6-story tow ers. All 146 rooms will be private. The campus in cludes a medical o f ce building for convenient access to physicians as well as services such as rehabil itation, imaging and wound care. The $326 mil lion hospital is projected to open by early 2024. Long-time board member Dub Mc Ginnes reflected on the hospital’s histo ry: “We are so proud of our leadership and team members. We have a great history here — it’s been 70 years since the first one was built — but it has even a brighter future.” Barton Malow project executive Matt Wood said their involvement with the hospital fulfills the company’s mission. “Our team charter says it will provide extraordinary health care services for Plant City and surrounding areas for generations to come,” Wood said. “It’s very fulfilling to be working on a project with a noble purpose.”

By Linda Chion

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Page 5Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022 &FISHHAWK/BLOOMINGDALEVALRICOADVERTISING Kerrie Hoening 625-1527 kerrie@ospreyobserver.com EDITORMANAGING Marie Gilmore 657-2418 editor@ospreyobserver.com MANAGERGRAPHICS Denise Graf 657-2418 denise@ospreyobserver.com EDITORLAYOUT Kathi Hayes 657-2418 khayes@ospreyobserver.com MANAGERBILLING Terry Vassalotti 657-2418 terry@ospreyobserver.com ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Kathy Collins 657-2418 kcollins@ospreyobserver.com EDITORASSIGNMENT Kate Quesada 657-2418 kquesada@ospreyobserver.com WWW . OSPREYOBSERVER . COM FOLLOW US: RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, & SOUTHSHORE ADVERTISING Melissa Hartmann 833-7470 mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com MANAGERMARKETING Jennifer Hurst 657-2418 jhurst@ospreyobserver.com REPORTERNEWS Taylor Wells 657-2418 twells@ospreyobserver.com 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33592 • (office) 657-2418 • (fax) 657-4469 BRANDON & WINTHROP ADVERTISING Melody Gershkoff 300-5152 mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com CUSTOMER SERVICE Jenny Bennett 657-2418 jbennett@ospreyobserver.com CHRISTIAN ADVERTISINGVOICE Cammie Yick 810-8106 cyick@ospreyobserver.com ASSOCIATED WITH OSPREY OBSERVER 7 Buy One Get BAKLAVAOne(perorder)LittleGreekFreshGrill813.570.8162RIVERVIEWLOCATIONONLY 10173 Big Bend Rd., Riverview Expires 9/22/2022 LUNCHFAMILYEVERYSPECIALSDAYMEALSPECIALS $39.95 Take Out and Delivery La Septima Cafe 702 W Lumsden Rd, Brandon Not Valid with any other discounts, promotions or coupons. No Cash Value. Expires 9/22/2022 Nekter Juice Bar (813) 409-2679 3482 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Valrico Not to be combined with any other coupons, discounts or ofers. Expires 9/22/2022 Sunfower Cafe 813-65-SUSHI Only valid with regular menu. With this coupon. Must present before submitting payment. Before tax. One coupon per visit. Not valid with Expires 9/22/2022 JF Kicks 813-643-7777 3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico Excludes other discounts, specials, or ofers. Expires 9/22/2022

With recruitment events set to spread from Tallahassee through central Flori da and beyond, the Continue the Mission initiative aims to fill positions for child protective investigators and mentors for children in need, as well as for mentors to work with new case managers and inves tigators with the Florida Department of Children and Families (FDCF). Launched as of June 22, Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis heaped praise on the initiative, led by the FDCF in collaboration with the Florida De partment of Veterans Af“Weairs. are not only helping children across the state but also helping veterans and retired law en forcement with their mental and emotion al well-being, who may feel as though they’ve lost their pur pose once they’ve left active duty or have re tired,” DeSantis said. Eletto issued a sim ilar sentiment, seeing in Continue the Mission a greater purpose for addressing the mental health of veterans, “because when you start helping others, you help yourself.” Given the young age of many retiring veterans, Eletto said, the initiative is spoton in its eforts to provide civilian job op portunities for veterans, along with mili tary spouses and retired law enforcement of“Ifcers.you do 20 years in the service and you retire at age 38, you’re going to want to work,” Eletto said. “A lot of these veter ans want to contribute to the community they live, and especially so when you’re dealing with children and their future.”

For more information, visit families.com/continuethemission.www.myfl

Recruitment is under way for veterans, mil itary spouses and for mer law enforcement ofcers to ‘Continue the Mission’ through career and mentorship oppor tunities aimed toward protecting children. State agencies, working with local veteran organizations and community groups, among others, are set to fill flexible career openings and mentor ship opportunities in the child and family well-being system. Joe Eletto, a veteran and chair of the Mili tary Afairs Committee at the Greater River view Chamber of Com merce, is a fan of the initiative. “I believe a lot of veterans would be inclined to get involved,” Eletto said. “It gives the veterans some self-confidence in their purpose, and it addresses a great need in the community: helping children. It’s a double benefit.”

‘Continue the Mission’ launches in Pen sacola on June 22, with First Lady Casey DeSantis at the podium to praise the statewide efort.

‘CONTINUE THE MISSION’ OFFERS NEW PURPOSE FOR VETERANS, MILITARY SPOUSES AND LAW ENFORCEMENT

KAT MAHONEY AND HER DAUGHTER V AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATE NEW CHILDREN’S BOOK By Kathy L. Collins

Page 6 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8 8/31/2022 8/31/2022 Walt Raysick said he was “honored and hum bled” to have received the 2021 Key Citizen Award, which was presented in July.Since its inception in 1977, the award has been given annually to a citizen for “unselfishly” contrib uting “time and efort for the betterment of the Brandon community rath er than for personal gain.” The involvement must be consistent over a pe riod of at least five years and in a number of well-rounded activities, with an emphasis on the immediate past year, according to Betty Jo Tompkins, who, as executive director of the Brandon Cham ber of Commerce, helped establish the award in 1977 with the chamber’s then-chairman of the board, Julian Craft. “This was not to be an award for volunteer work with the chamber, we made that very clear,” said Tompkins, who has worked 18 years at the chamber. “The award is for peo ple in the Greater Brandon area who have been extremely involved in a wide spectrum of activities, with each year’s winner select ed by the previous winners.” This year, the award, traditionally be stowed at the chamber’s annual dinner in January, was announced on July 21 at the Chamber Member Awards dinner at The Re gent in RaysickRiverview.saidhe was invited to the dinner under the pretense of speaking with Dave Braun about master plans and expansions for the Hillsborough County Veterans Me morial Park and Rear Admiral Leroy Collins

WALT RAYSICK ‘HUMBLED’

Mother and daughter Kat Mahoney and V have authored and illustrated an exciting new children’s book called Astrid & Te Case of the Missing Cupcake.

Jr. Museum in Tampa. Braun, who was named Key Citizen in 2018, vol unteers many hours to the efort along with Raysick, who ended up missing the July 21 din ner.“I called Dave to tell him I couldn’t make the dinner because of a medical emergency, which is when he told me about the award I was about to receive,” Raysick said. “I felt very humbled, and apolo gized profusely, and for sure I would have wanted to be there in person to collect the award.”Retired 30 years ago as a master chief petty ofcer from the U.S. Navy, Raysick said he served in Vietnam in 1969-70 and was assigned two tours of duty with the U.S. Marines through the Fleet Marine Force. “It was for a sense of duty and pride,” Raysick said about his commitment to mil itary service. “I always wanted to give back, and all my uncles on my mother’s side were World War II veterans.” Upon moving to Brandon in 2004, Rays ick said he “immediately got involved with programs and patriotic events,” noting his involvement that includes volunteerism with the Greater Brandon Fourth of July Parade, Hillsborough County Veterans Council, AM VETS Post 44, American Legion Post 148, Marine Corps League Detachment 1226, Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay and both the Brandon Chamber’s Military Afairs Council and the Riverview Chamber’s Military Af fairs Committee. TO RECEIVE BRANDON’S 2021 KEY CITIZEN AWARD By Linda Chion Photo by Linda Chion. Walt Raysick, recipient of the 2021 Key Citizen Award, marching in full uniform at the 2009 Greater Brandon Fourth of July Parade. Brandon resi dents Kat Mahoney and her daugh ter, V (pen name Voidstarz), have published a book titled Astrid & The Case of the Missing Cupcake . This book is a part of a new series of children’s books. Astrid & The Case of the Missing Cupcake is about Astrid, a 7-yearold Filipino girl with a love for cosplay, video games, bak ing and solving mysteries. Astrid also has a wild imagination that tends to get away from her and sometimes gets her into sticky situations. But this time, Astrid literally has a sticky situation, as there is a missing cupcake. This mystery needs to be solved quickly so it does not ruin someone’s day. Mahoney is the author and V provides the amazing illustrations. Astrid was inspired by the author and based on the life of the book’s dig ital artist and Mahoney’s daughter. V is a high-functioning autistic young adult who was severely bullied in high school and struggles with autism and an anx iety disorder. Her journey with cosplay, video games and artworks was the cop ing she needed to help both the mother and daughter through di f cult times. Mahoney said, “V has autism, so she has always struggled with communi cation, anxiety, social phobia and the ability to fit in with her peers. She was bullied exten sively in high school and cosplay allowed her to reach out to fans with similar interests. She found many kids her age and young er struggled with the same issues and found cosplay a very comfort ingMahoneyplace.” added, “V has been into cosplay since she was in kin dergarten, as mom is a content creator, vid eo game influencer and cosplayer, so she was raised around the industry.” In addition to a series of Astrid books, the duo is working on a web cartoon se ries.All of the books revolve around gam ification or what is also known as edu cational entertainment, such as cosplay, video games, board games and STEAM. Each series will focus on a di f erent as pect within that industry as well as put some focus on autism and how these interests can positively benefit mental health.Mahoney said, “Our mission is to pro vide an insider look for parents and edu cators to understand how geek interests such as cosplay, video games and the like can lead to extensive careers as well as positive mental health.” The book can be purchased at www. astridbooks.com.

edwardjones.com/adam-benabram

HILLSBOROUGH HCFL SYSTEM Staf Report

Page 7Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022 Hillsborough County and Publix are team ing up to promote the county’s ofcial emer gency mass notifica tion system, known as HCFL Alert. HCFL Alert is designed to keep you informed about local emergencies, everyday events and county news that are important to you.Publix is currently displaying HCFL Alert posters at its more than 50 stores in Hillsbor ough County to remind residents to sign up for the notification system as we enter the height of hurricane season. HCFL Alert helps resi dents remain informed and receive timely emergency notifications through voice calls, text messages or emails. HCFL Alert is the easiest way for Hills borough County residents to stay connected and alert by receiving the latest emergency notification updates on hurricanes, severe weather, evacuation notices, public health and safety warnings, major road closures and major service interruptions, such as boil water notices. In addition to emergency notifications, HCFL Alert provides information on county news, events, classes, programs and learning and grant opportunities. When you sign up, you can choose which updates you would like to receive and how you would like to receive them. Whether through voice calls, text or email, the alerts will reach residents in real-time.

Residents will not re ceive information from the categories that they do not Residentsselect. signing up for HCFL Alert can also find additional in formation on how to prepare, respond and recover from natural or man-made disasters in Hillsborough County on the county’s Stay Safe webpage: fullythingSafetransportation,niorswithregistrationzoneevacuationgov.net/staysafe.www.hcflFromandfloodmapstoshelterforresidentsspecialneeds,seandthosewithouttheStaywebpagehaseveryresidentsneedtoprepareforwhatev

COUNTY AND PUBLIX PARTNER TO PROMOTE

• Possible tax benefts – If you invest in a 529 education savings plan, your earnings can grow federally income tax-free, provided the money is used for qualifed education expenses. (Withdrawals not used for these expenses will generally incur taxes and penalties on investment earnings.) If you invest in your own state’s 529 plan, you may receive state tax benefts, too, depending on the state.

• Flexibility in naming the benefciary – As the owner of the 529 plan, you can name anyone you want as the benefciary. You can also change the benefciary. If your eldest child foregoes college, you can name a younger sibling or another eligible relative.

• Support for non-college programs – Even if your children don’t want to go to college, it doesn’t mean they’re uninterested in any type of postsecondary education or training. And a 529 plan can pay for qualifed expenses at trade or vocational schools, including apprenticeship programs registered with the U.S. Department of Labor.

An HCFL Alert poster at a local area Publix.

er a disaster brings. Residents can also download the 2022 Hillsborough County Disaster Preparedness Guide in English and Spanish at www.hcfl gov.net/disasterguide, which focuses on the four steps to disaster preparedness, includ ing how to make plans for you, your family, your pet and your business. Residents are also encouraged to follow the county’s social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Nextdoor @HillsboroughFL for additional county information during a storm. Sign up today by visiting www.hcflgov. net/hcflalert and receive vital emergency information during this hurricane season, which continues through Wednesday, No vember 30. For assistance with registering for HCFL Alert, call 813-272-6602.

ALERT

• Payment of student loans – A 529 plan can help pay of federal or private student loans, within limits. Keep in mind that state-by-state tax treatment varies for diferent uses of 529 plans, so you’ll want to consult with your tax professional before putting a plan in Despiteplace.these and other benefts, 529 plans are greatly under-utilized. Only about 40% of Americans even recognize the 529 plan as an education savings tool, and only 13% are actually using it, again accord ing to the Edward Jones/Morning Consult study. But as the cost of college and other postsecondary programs continues to rise, it will become even more important for parents to fnd efective ways to save for their children’s future education expenses. So, consider how a 529 plan can help you and your family. And the sooner you get started, the better.

FINANCIAL FOCUS 529 PLANS: UNDERUSED BUT VALUABLE In just a few weeks, students will be heading of to college – and parents will be getting out their check books. Without a college-bound student in your home right now, you might not be thinking much about tuition and other higher education expenses, but if you have young children, these costs may eventually be of concern – so how should you prepare for them? It’s never too soon to start saving and investing. Unfortunately, many people think that they have a lot of “catching up” to do. In fact, nearly half of Americans say they don’t feel like they’re saving enough to cover future education expenses, according to a 2022 survey conducted by fnancial services frm Edward Jones with Morning Consult, a global research company. Of course, it’s not always easy to set aside money for college when you’re already dealing with the high cost of living, and, at the same time, trying to save and invest for retirement. Still, even if you can only devote relatively modest amounts for your children’s education, these contributions can add up over time. But where should you put your money? Personal savings accounts are the top vehicle Americans are using for their education funding strategies, according to the Edward Jones/Morning Consult survey. But there are other options, one of which is a 529 plan, which may ofer more attractive features, including the following:

Page 8 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8 9912 Indiana St. • Hwy 41 & Estelle Ave • Gibsonton, FL 33534 813.677.1301 First Baptist Church of Gibsonton “We love because He frst loved us.” 1 John 4:19 Doctor Malcom S. Clements- Pastor Traditional Worship Service Old-time Gospel Hymns Nursery ChildrenAvailable&YouthMinistry Sunday School…………. 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship……… 10:30 A.M. Sunday Evening…………. 6:00 P.M. Mid-Week (Wed.)……… 7:00 P.M. (813)BRANDON651-9484 117 N. Kings Ave (813)TAMPA932-5327 1425 W. Busch Blvd. (727)CLEARWATER725-1052 (Across from Costco) 2643 Gulf to Bay, Ste. 1530 CustomHairTampaBay.com • Human Hair & Synthetic Hair Wigs • Permanent, Non-Surgical Options • Chemotherapy & Alopecia Specialists • Largest Selection of Human Hair Toppers in Tampa Bay • Also offering sales & service of all MEN’S hair systems FREE CONSULTATION! PLEASE CALL. SinceOwnerLori,&Client1969 CUSTOM HAIR For the hair you’ve always wanted!

Inclusion of all people in a com munity is import ant. For that goal, a new group called The Hive Inclusive, created by Tonya Whitlock, makes it a priority to give the disabled com munity more op portunities to in teract with others. Whitlock came up with the idea for The Hive Inclu sive due to her son, Trace, who is 28 years old and has cerebral palsy. Whitlock said her son “watched his other siblings move out and live their own lives” and that “he wished to have the opportunity to do the same.” This sparked an idea to create a group where disabled people could inter act with everyone in the community. Currently, the local area has no inclu sive living and a lack of social activities for the disabled, leading to most disabled people being part of ‘the clif,’ meaning they are segregated from the local com munity. The Hive Inclusive was in the making back in January 2020 to resolve this. However, in March 2020, COVID-19 put the project on hold. It started back up again in October 2021, where a team of four people would meet weekly to work on creating The Hive Inclusive. In June 2022 the team began planning to create their own build ing to run The Hive Inclusive in. Right now, the group operates out of Bayshore Baptist Church and meets weekly. On Saturday mornings, there are instructor-led classes, and on Satur day nights there are social events. The classes are target ed towards the dis abled members of The Hive Inclusive. During classes, the members learn and work on many skills. Local people come in and teach class es based on their profession. Some classes include a local chef teaching how to make mac and cheese, a local artist teaching how to make abstract paintings and a local writ er teaching members how to tell a story. Later at night, there is then a social event where all members, disabled or not, are encouraged to come. At the event, there are food, drinks and activities, such as karaoke, with the main goal of having fun as an inclusive community. The Hive Inclusive collaborates with Hope4Life, which is a caregiving agency, and CUP (Cofee Uniting People). It also partners with local sponsors and people in order to gain money for future activ ities and programming. Currently, the group is working on creating housing in the Tampa metro area that is afordable, multigenerational and inclusive. If you or someone you know is inter ested in joining The Hive Inclusive, you can buy a membership online at https:// theinclusivehive.org/ for $10 a month or $90 a year. For more information, visit Facebook @theinclusivehive, Ins tagram @inclusivehive and LinkedIn sive-community/.www.linkedin.com/company/hive-incluat

THE HIVE INCLUSIVE CREATES NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR DISABLED COMMUNITY By Ella Martin

Two members of Te Hive Inclusive Community participating in a cooking class.

Since December of 2020, students at the University of South Flori da (USF), Tampa campus, have had the opportunity to visit or be visited by therapy dog K-9 Bailey. Her first responsibility is to answer calls related to violent crimes. She will sit with the victim of the vio lent crime and calm them to the point where they are comfortable enough to speak further with law enforcement.Earlierin the year of 2020, it had been dis cussed to have a thera py dog available to the USF community. When the discussion was solidified in who would be taking this responsibility on, ofcer Nicole Marchesano produced a PowerPoint presentation filled with sta tistics and facts on the need and justifica tion to have a therapy dog on campus and available to all students, faculty as well as staf. By December 2020, K-9 Bailey was a part of Marchesano’s team. Marchesano created a ‘Bailey Button,’ which can be found on the USFPD web site under resources. This button allows USF students easy access to requesting K-9 Bailey. K-9 Bailey and her handler, Marchesano are on campus from 8 a.m.5 p.m., Monday through Thursday. How ever, they adjust their schedule when necessary to meet the needs of the USF community. The reasons for requests and the ones at the top of the list are people in need. This can include someone seeking K-9 Bailey due to having high anxiety for a plethora of reasons, such as a loved one having died, dealing with a break-up with a significant other, strug gling to stay focused an exam and more. K-9 Bailey’s job is to provide them with the comfort theyTheneed.University of South Florida community is able to request K-9 Bai ley by simply stopping her if you see them on cam pus, email, call or using the Bailey Button. The Bailey Button is also used for groups who want Marches ano to show up to their dorms for fun, staf meetings for distress or public/so cial“K-9functions.Bailey can be described as my 3-year-old, goofy, sweet, loving mental health crusader. K-9 Bailey has been with me since I got her in December of 2020. K-9 Bailey and I have a multidisciplinary therapy license and … an advanced AKC Canine Good Citizen certification. She is also a graduate of Project Pup, which al lows Bailey to work in hospital settings,” saidForMarchesano.moreinformation on K-9 Bailey and what services as a therapy dog she pro vides, please visit orcontact-up.aspx,trative-services/university-police/about/www.usf.edu/adminisemailusfpdpio@usf.educall813-974-2628.

K-9 BAILEY, THE USF THERAPY DOG AT YOUR DOOR WITH A CLICK OF A BUTTON By Sydney Burken K-9 Bailey was stopped when walk ing the campus for four students to get a few moments of relaxation and to take their mind of school work.

Page 9Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022 Assisted Living “Tessera Brandon...living your lifestyle.” Memory Care “Living the present...cherishing the past.” • Active contemporary style living • Spacious apartments • All day dining from 7am to 7pm with a bountiful variety of choices • Pet friendly • Educational and social opportunities • Cable and Wi-Fi included • Live entertainment from Bach to Big Band • “Wine Down” Wednesdays SAVE THE DATE Tuesday Virtual2:00pm9/20/2022-4:00pmDementiaTourExperienceLifewithDementiaCalltoRSVP 1320 Oakfeld Dr., Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 607-6880 Located in the heart of Brandon close to I75, Hwy 60 and Hwy 301 Call TODAY for special pricing! TesseraBrandon.com Assisted Living Facility #AL13150 (Take Out Only) 27 Years in 813-689-8131NowRoomYBORBrandon!OPEN!•3159 E. State Road 60 - Valrico Are you ready for the biggest foam party in Hillsbor ough County? On Saturday, Septem ber 17 from 5-8 p.m., Florida Foam Facto ry will be hosting ceedsthatHeroes,supportyourfunningfoamcannonsThereZAFOAMSTRAVAGANaatTheRegent.willbethreeblastingandaDJspinsomefamily-friendly,tunes.ComedressedasfavoritesuperherotoSmallbutMightytheorganizationaportionoftheprowillbedonatedto.There will also be rafe prizes every 15 minutes and food trucks.Florida Foam Factory is owned by Air Force veteran Brian Porter, who said, “When I met Tina and spoke to her about her organization, … her passion of want ing to help children battling cancer made me want to help in some capacity.” Tina Downing started Small but Mighty Heroes in 2017, inspired by a little boy named Blakey who fought a tremendous battle with cancer. The loss of Blakey due to cancer treatment ignited a fire with in her to advocate, raise awareness and provide sup port for children and their families battling childhood cancer. Downing also owns Mighty Heroes Nutrition, a shop benefitting her nonprofit which sells gourmet shakes, teas, lemonades and cofees. She said, “We are able to do continual fundraising that will help us continue our mission and fund our programs that are designed to provide the tailored sup port that these children and their family needs.” The community can help sup port Small but Mighty Heroes by attending the upcoming FOAM STRAVAGANZA, visiting Mighty Heroes Nutrition, volunteering or donating. For more information on Florida Foam Factory, visit its website at www.floridafoamfactory. com. To support Small but Mighty He roes, visit www.smallbutmightyheroes. org or purchase tickets to the event ets-340123898737.tory-foamstravaganza-2022-tickwww.eventbrite.com/e/florida-foam-fachere: FIRST COMMUNITYFOAMSTRAVAGANZAEVENTWILLSUPPORTCHILDREN’SCANCERCHARITY By Sara Battaglia Marie Gilmore with Brian Porter at a truly foamtastic and fun event! Florida Foam Factory will host a SeptemberAGANZAFOAMSTRAVSaturday,17,5-8p.m.

Yellowfn Realtor Karyn Scech loves to support Rain ing Cats and Dogs Shelter with every home sale.

Karyn Scech is a residential state agent with Yellow fin Realty. She sells homes in Hillsbor ough, Pinellas, Polk and Pasco coun ties. Scech has been in business for six years with Yellowfin but has lived in the area for over 30 years and has an extensive network.Shebelongs to the Valrico Fish hawk Chamber of Commerce and Hearts & Heels. Hearts & Heels is a women’s networking group in Tampa and Brandon. It allows entrepreneurial women to feel a part of a community while owning theirScechbusinesses.hasavast knowledge of the area and is here to assist buyers and sellers in the Tampa Bay area. She is a good nego tiator and strives to create good relation ships with her clients. “I truly believe a homebuyer/seller de serves an advocate during the process. … Its more than just selling a house,” said Scech.What’s more, for every transaction Scech makes with Yellowfin, $100 is do nated to Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter and Sanctuary. Scech uses her extensive network with the Valrico FishHawk Cham ber of Commerce and Hearts & Heels to help get services and do nations needed for the Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter.Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter is located in Plant City. Its mission is to pro vide temporary and for ever homes for unwanted cats and dogs. They work with causeShelterCatsportsplaceandat-risksheltersmunicipaltogivedogscatsasafetostay.ScechsupRainingandDogsbeitisanokill shelter and a sanctuary for senior dogs and cats instead of them being etherized. Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter takes care of the animals when owners can’t any more.Scech uses her network to help Rain ing Cats and Dogs Shelter when services and donations are needed. She is there to assist families with buying a home, but in the process, she helps out Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter and the animals staying there.Scech communicates well with her clients, and integrity is her goal. Scech strives not only to sell a home but to cre ate long-lasting relationships with her cli ents. For more, visit www.rainingcatsand dogsshelter.com or www.yellowfinrealty. com/karyn-scech/.

REALTOR MAKES $100 DONATION TO RAINING CATS AND DOGS SHELTER WITH EVERY SALE By Arianna Hooker

GREATER BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CELEBRATES THE SUCCESS OF LOCAL BUSINESSES

On July 21, the Great er businessestunitygreateventRoaringunderbusinessesoutstandingleaderssuccessognizeningedwerenomineesinTheHostedcommunity.nessesofandthecelebrateAwardsMemberChamberitsconductedCommerceChamberBrandonofannualtostrengthgrowthlocalbusiintheatRegentRiverview,invitthatevetorectheofandthe’20stheme.“Thisisaopporforin our community to be rec ognized and celebrated by the chamber and other business leaders,” said Matt Lettelleir, president and CEO of the Great er Brandon Chamber of Commerce. “Busi nesses that win see an increase in patron age, trafc and things like that.” Awards ofered were divided into difer ent categories to distinguish the size, age and status of businesses nominated. The employee size distinction awards provide recognition for the success of a business relative to the number of employees on hand by certain intervals. This year’s win ners included Master Garage Door Co. for one to five employees, Kilene Kelly Group for six to 20 employees and Livingstone Schools Inc. for more than 21 employees. The Emerging Business Award is al located to a chamber member who has been in business for less than three years, and this year’s winner was Just Love Cof fee Cafe in Brandon. This year’s Nonprof it/Government Agency Award went to the Angel Foundation FL. Tina Blount received the Leadership Brandon Impact Award, which acknowl edges either a participant or leader in Leadership Brandon who has made valu able and impactful contributions over the past five years. Walt Raysick won the Key Cit izen Award, which cred its individ uals who have devot ed much of their time to multiple ac tivities with in the Bran don area for no less than five years. And Berna dette leadershipofrecognitionphasizeswhichshiptyCommunireceivedPellotheLeaderAward,emthestrongaswellase forts that extend be yond just the immedi ate Great er area.BrandonEachnom inee was required to give background information on the business, ranging from the legal structure to the annual percentage increase/decrease in revenue. From there, questions pertaining to the history, mission statement and goals of each business were to be answered. For awards allocated to individual leaders, an essay or resume had to be provided. Last ly, partnering with the Tampa chapter of SCORE, a third-party selection commit tee, businesses had to attend one of the four scheduled interview sessions to fi nalize the category winners for the actual ceremony.Whiledistinctions are made for each category, Lettelleir pointed out that there are common threads between the nomi nees.“Businesses that have given back to the community, are strong and some house hold names in the area — I think that those are certainly some similarities be tween all the winners,” he said. For more information, please visit www.brandonchamber.com or call 813689-1221.

Page 10 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

By Madeline Gardner Bernadette Pello received the Community Leader ship Award for her strong leadership skills and positive impact that extended beyond the Greater Brandon area. Matt Lettelleir, president and CEO of the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, believes that the Chamber Member Awards ofers a great opportunity for busi ness nominees and recipients to accumulate further success within the community.

Walt Raysick won the Key Citizen Award, which high lights the devotion and time paid by an actively involved individual in the community for at least fve years.

Tina Blount received the Lead ership Brandon Impact Award for her dedication and positive impact on the Leadership Brandon Program for the past fve years.

Page 11Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022

BUSCH GARDENS

honored by an esteemed organization like FACTE,” said Scott Brooks, executive direc tor of CTE. “I am truly honored to be the CTE Su perintendent of the Year and deeply ap preciate FACTE for taking notice of the important work we have just begun here in Hillsborough County Public Schools. Strengthening our career and technical ed ucation oferings will have impacts not only on our students but also on our community as we work collectively to fill a critical la bor shortage in key areas in our communi ty,” said Davis. Davis began his tenure as superinten dent for HCPS, the nation’s seventh largest school system, in March 2020. He is a member of the Children’s Board, American Heart Association Board, Junior Achievement Board, Starting Right Now Board, Tampa Bay Chamber Ex Ofcio Board, Stratz Center Board, and Trustee for Florida Palms. For more information on HCPS and Davis, visit www.hillsborough schools.org.

Te Florida Association for Career and Technical Education (FACTE) has named Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) Superintendent Addison Davis the CTE Superintendent of the Year.

It is clear that Superintendent Davis rec ognizes the importance of career pathways which allow students to earn multiple in dustry certifications preparing them for career advancement,” said Marsan Carr, executive director of FACTE. “Superintendent Davis has empowered his leadership and staf to ensure new and seeitlogistics,structionmedical,aschoolsthreeininstrumentalDavisvelopment.workforceinourcreatedprogramsinnovativeareforstudentstheareaofdeMr.hasbeencreatingnewhighwithfocusonconandandisexcitingtothiswork

Bier Fest at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay returns as fes tive as ever, with secutiveitsevent,Thisandwithbrews,internationalsonal,includingdrinksmoreparkthroughoutcabinstheservingthan50options,sealocalandalongciderssours.popularnowinfifthconyear,allows

The toforcededicationsuperintendent’sthemitteeThedentCTEAddisonSuperintendentlicoughnamed(FACTE)nicalCareerAssociationFloridaforandTechEducationhasHillsborCountyPubSchools(HCPS)DavistheSuperintenoftheYear.awardscombestowedhonorforthetoworkdevelopmentpreparestudents

ADDISON DAVIS NAMED SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR BY FACTE Staf Report

guests to sip, sample and savor, enjoy the tunes from rising local artists, step into immersive animal habitats and top-of a day of festive fun with Flori da’s most thrilling rides. Bier Fest runs every Friday through Sun day until Monday, September 5 and is in cluded with park admission. This year’s menu is a match made in heaven for all the foodies at heart. Guests can pair their brew of choice with all-new Oktoberfest-inspired menu oferings that include bratkartofeln, konigsberger klopse, pretzel bratwurst, sauerbraten sliders, potato pancakes, brisket poutine, cheese pierogies and Ruben brats. New featured Tampa Bay area drink favorites include Cigar City Fancy Papers Hazy IPA, Leaven Brewing Cheeky Blonde, Tampa Bay Brewing Reef Donkey, Bitburg er Premium Pilsner, Coppertail Free Dive IPA and Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc. For refreshing local ciders and sours, new options include Keel Farms Agrarian Two Henrys Mango Cider, Cigar City Homemade Appe Pie Cider, Crooked Thumb Strawberry Sour and Flying Boat Raspberry Passionfruit Sour. The best way to get a taste of ev ery is with a sampler lanyard, which can be redeemed for any food or beverage item ofered throughout the festival. Sampler lanyards start at $35 and are avail able bersMem12.eightofquantitiesinfive,andPasshave access to an exclusive 15-item sampler for the same price as a 12-item sampler. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Bier Fest is included with park admission, and one of the best ways to experience this year’s event is by becoming an Annual Pass Member for $13/month plus tax with no down payment. With an Annual Pass, guests will enjoy 12 months of visits with special benefits like free parking, free guest tickets, access to special VIP events, sav ings on merchandise and more. Guests can also purchase the 2022 Fun Card, which ofers park admission through Saturday, December 31 for one low price, or take advantage of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s limited-time BOGO ticket sale. Guests visiting the park to enjoy Bier Fest are encouraged to join the conversation us ing #ThrillsOnTap on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. For more information, visit www.buschgardenstampa.com. LAUNCHES NEW OKTOBERFEST MENU FOR BIER FEST Staf Report

A Bier Fest sign at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, which is occurring every weekend through Monday, September 5.

for high-paying careers in demand in our Superintendentcommunity.Daviswas presented the award at the school board meeting on July 26 to honor his expansion of CTE programs throughout the district. One of the central focuses of his tenure has been to help fill critical labor gaps in our community by preparing students for in-demand jobs upon“FACTEgraduation.would like to recognize Super intendent Davis’ positive impact on Career and Technical Education within Hillsbor ough County Public Schools. The success of the Future Career Academy is one of many incredible initiatives we believe makes a tremendous diference in student success.

SUPERIOR RESIDENCES OF BRANDON OFFERS QUALITY CARE TO LOCAL PATIENTS

DAILY BLENDS BRINGS PROTEIN WAFFLES, SMOOTHIES, MEGATEAS & MORE TO VALRICO By Sofa Celis Avellaneda

spending time with family and getting closer with those who love you most. It sells smoothies, protein shakes, wafes and donuts. Some fun drinks that it serves include Skittles, Pink Star burst and Watermelon Crawl. It also has a kids menu with drinks like Blue Raspberry, Strawberry Blast, Dino Juice, and Green Ap ple. If you ask, the restaurant always has a flavor of the day, and you can add on vitamin C, collagen, probiotics, immunity boosters, hydration, fiber or aloe to any drink. Something you can start looking forward to is Daily Blends after dark. Waymire said, “Strength training classes, line dancing lessons and other fun things to come. Our walk ing group started July 14 at Valrico Park at 7 p.m. It will be Tuesdays and Thursdays.” The business has many chal lenges over on its Face book that you can

catedResidences,Superiorloo f Prov idence Road in Brandon, ofers a safe and en gaging assisted living, memory care home for diagnosed Alz heimer’s and dementia pa tients. Superi or and48currentlyResidenceshaspatientssta

f of certified nurs ing assistants that provide complete care to those living at the Brandon location. Superior Residences focuses on provid ing quality care through engaging activi ties to improve the quality of life for their patients. Each week begins with worship music and Bible study time on Sunday. Throughout the week, patients can partic ipate in bingo, trivia games and crafts to fill each day with activities that are physi cally and mentally stimulating. Visitors are allowed to see their loved ones in the common area, but coronavirus restrictions prevent them from visiting the 46 rooms, which are divided into two wings: Crystal and Blossom. Each com munity has four staf per shift, including a medical technician and three certified nursing assistants. “We help them with all their activities. We try to keep them engaged physically and mentally as long as possible to ensure they have a better quality of life,” said sales director Troy tients.tosiciansetc.,matological,tal,includingdonevicesessary.bathing,likesictanceinvolvesTheirKnight.careassiswithbafunctions,eatingandifnecAllserarealsoin-house,denvision,derasthephycomeinseethepa

forgranditforpeoplemonthlenges21-daysuchcomplete,asthechaleachtogetactive,whichwillhaveprizesthewin ners.Waymire, outside of Daily Blends, has been a realtor in the Valrico area for about six years. “I am a military wife, mom of four and heavily involved in advocacy for our kids’ education and safe path ways to school here in Hillsborough County,” according to Waymire. Come down and visit something new and exciting with Daily Blends. Danielle added, “I’d tell a prospective cus tomer to come and give us a try. We have a relaxing fun energy, and our menu is de licious.”Ifyou would like to know more about Dai ly Blends, email dailyblendsfl@gmail.com, call 813-409-3642 or check out its Face book page under the name ‘Daily Blends.’ It is located at 1991 E. SR 60 in Valrico and open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m.6 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Nurses have also taken part in special trainings to improve their resume and cre dentials in order to increase the quality of care and love for patients. They are also encouraged to engage in patient activities to increase the sense of community at Su perior“OurResidences.biggestaccomplishment is all the new management staf here in the facili ty are all working together, collectively as a team, to increase the level of care and bring the facility back to its previous lus ter,” Knight said about the change in man agement when Healthcare Management Partners took over the 22-year-old facility in SuperiorOctober. Residences is located at 1819 Providence Ridge Blvd. in Brandon. For more information, visit superiorbrandon. com or call 813-657-8587. To schedule a tour or inquire about employment op portunities, email Superior Residences through the form on the website.

Page 12 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

A new health food restaurant loca tion came to the Valrico area as of June 5. Make your way down to Daily Blends in Valrico, where your friends and fam ilies can come hang out and have a healthy ingbutsibility,Teachingincludedastated,ofownerDaniellesnack.Waymire,andfounderthisestablishment,“Ialsowantedfamilybusinessthatmychildren.themresponhealthyhabitsmostofallspendtimewiththem.”Thisshopencourages

By Lily Belcher Superior Residences ofers a fun and engaging envi ronment for memory care patients.

Daily Blends is a new cafe in Valrico ofering healthy smoothies, megateas and protein wafes & donuts. It is owned and operated by the Waymire family. Kira, Danielle & Ian with team member Jessenia Monsalve.

Page 13Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022

Page 14 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8 New Friends. New Beginnings.

Page 15Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022 LAKE BRANDON VILLAGE 11325 Causeway Blvd • Brandon (813) 655-1237 BRANDON SOUTH 2010 Bloomingdale Ave • Valrico (813) 571-05696amHours:-10pm

Every summer, the Osprey Observer allows local high school and college students to ex perience a taste of the journalism world with internships that gives students a chance to learn the ins and outs of the newspaper in dustry. This year, the Osprey Observer wel comed eight interns for their summer intern ship, Sara Battaglia, Sydney Burken, Sofia Celis Avellaneda, Nick Edwards, Madeline Gardner, Deven King, Arianna Hooker and Ella Martin. Sara Battaglia Dancing for a Difer enceBattaglia is 27 years old and the owner of Dancing for a Diference; she previous ly was a dance major at the University of South Florida but ended up with a degree in general studies due to an injury. Batt aglia wanted to intern because she loves writing and making connections in the community.“Iamcurrently a business owner of Dancing for a Diference and know how important making connections in the com munity is,” said Battaglia. Sydney Burken University of South Florida Burken is going to be a senior at the University of South Florida in the fall. She is 21 years old and has a political sci ence major and a minor in mass commu nications with a concentration in media broadcasting and journalism. Burken’s fa vorite part of this internship has been the flexibility of it, from being able to choose her topics to getting to decide the angle of her article. Having multimedia interview options gave Burken the chance to learn her strengths and weaknesses as a writer and improve upon them. “I chose this internship because it is a local newspaper with a lot of recognition and gives me the opportunity for in-per son interviews, over-the-phone interviews and email interviews,” said Burken.

Nick Edwards University of Central Florida Edwards is a student at the University of Central Florida. He is 19 years old and is a criminal justice major while pursuing a minor in English literature. Edwards’ favorite part of this internship has been talking to his interviewees because it has allowed him to meet people and hear about their life experiences. “I chose to apply for this internship be cause it will jumpstart my career and give me an opportunity to practice working with others and hone my writing skills,” said Edwards.

OSPREY SUMMER INTERNS GET A TASTE OF THE NEWSROOM

Deven King Pensacola Christian KingCollegeis 20 years old and a junior at Pensac ola Christian College, where she is majoring in journalism. King plans to become a journalist and wants to be a travel writer.“My favorite part about interning was getting to meet new people and learn about the diferent small orga nizations and people in Brandon,” said King. Arianna Hooker Newsome High Hooker is 16 years old and a rising junior at Newsome High School. She wants to go to a Christian college and plans to double major in mass communications and entrepreneur ial studies. Hooker wants her career to have some part in journalism, so she wanted to do this internship to gain more knowledge of the field since she has only worked for her school newspaper. Hooker’s favorite part of this in ternship has been the opportunity to contin ue crafting her writing skills and getting to interview people all over the community. “I chose this internship because I remem ber seeing the article about the summer in terns for the Osprey Observer when I was in grade six, and ever since, I made it a goal to do this internship,” said Hooker. Ella Martin Newsome High School Martin is 15 years old and a rising junior at Newsome High School. She plans to attend the University of Florida and wants to major in accounting and then work in a city later. She has a family of six and four dogs. Martin has enjoyed being able to practice a new type of “Mywriting.favorite part of interning is getting to interact with new people in the community, as well as learning more about events and places,” said Martin.

By Arianna Hooker

Sofia Celis Avellaneda Sumner High School Celis Avellaneda is 17 years old and a rising senior at Sumner High School while doing the dual enrollment program with Hillsborough Community College. She plans to major in communications. Celis Avellaneda likes this internship because she has gotten a chance to learn more about writing and how to complete inter views with diferent people. Celis Avellaneda’s favorite part of this internship was “learning the ropes and really understanding how to ask the right questions and go into as much detail as possible,” she said.

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Madeline Gardner University of Florida Gardner will be a freshman at the Uni versity of Florida in the fall. She is 18 years old and plans to major in English at the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Florida. Gardner’s favorite part of this internship has been being able to reach out and interview people all over the community while being able to discuss both important and wholesome matters. The internship has reminded Gardner of all the good in the community that should be“Icelebrated.wantedto intern with the Osprey Ob server because I saw it as an opportunity for me to expand on my writing capabil ities while immersing myself in a wide variety of topics to choose from. I think it’s a great way to merge my writing aspi rations and dreams with the reality of ap plying those goals to practical positions,” said Gardner.

CHERYL COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR Staf

Continuing a focus on providing equal op portunity for all res idents, Hillsborough County has named Cheryl Howell the first-ever assistant county administrator for equity and commu nityHowell,impact. who has been the county’s Af fordable Housing di rector since 2017, will help guide county policy to make sure all residents, including historically marginalized groups, have equal access to resources and opportunities to succeed and thrive. In her new position, Howell will oversee the soon-to-be-created Ofce of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, which will center on jobs and economic development, afordable housing, health and human services, chil dren’s services and transportation, as well as criminal justice, the digital divide and other issues.“The county has taken a huge step that will help lead us to address our most painful and challenging problems in a measurable way. The Ofce of Diversity, Equity and In clusion will provide a pathway for citizens to engage and work toward meaningful solu tions to uplift and further the common good for residents that have been marginalized and unheard,” said Howell. Hillsborough County has been striving to address the causes and impacts of historic inequities on residents. In 2021, the board of county commis sioners commissioned a community equity profile ofcludingmendedinequitiesthatty-equity-profile.pdf)ments/bocc/communimedia-center/doculibrary/hillsborough/hillsboroughcounty.org/(https://www.identifiedcurrentandrecomsolutions,inthecreationacentralizedo fce focusing on equity and diversity. Among the goals for the Ofce of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is to estab lish regular dialogue with the community focused on gaining input on initiatives and projects as well as continuing to assess and address community barriers towards equity. Throughout her three-decade career, Howell has been deeply involved in aford able housing, community development, eco nomic inclusion and social services issues. In addition to her role as the county’s Aford able Housing director, she serves as a board member of the Florida Housing Coalition and Tampa Family Health Center and as ex ecutive director of the Florida Community Development Association. With this pro motion, she becomes the highest-ranking African American female in Hillsborough County government. Howell is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s in public administration/urban planning. She received her master’s in public administration and management from Web ster University.

TOWER Staf Report

Cheryl Howell, Hillsborough County’s frst-ever assistant county administrator for equity and community impact. Tampa General Hos pital (TGH) and Tower Radiology have taken the next step in expanding their footprint by renam ing Tower Radiology to TGH Imaging powered by Tower. In January of this year, Tampa General an nounced it had fully pur chased Tower Radiology, expanding its statewide outpatient sites to 83 with the addition of Tow er’s 21 imaging centers throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Palm Beach counties. Tampa General was previously a 50 percent partner in Tower before this recent purchase of the remaining 50 percent ownership interest. After decades of working closely, it was a natural fit for Tower and Tampa General to come together to combine Tower’s 25 years of industry expertise and Tampa General’s drive to deliver world-class patient care through innovation to enhance the quali ty and coordination of outpatient care and achieve the optimal patient experience and outcomes.Underthe leadership of Sherri Lewman, senior vice president of enterprise imaging, TGH Imaging powered by Tower will bring together essential assets that will signifi cantly increase access, maximize efciency and enhance quality to benefit patients and physicians in the area. “This purchase builds on the long history of success and partnership between Tower Radiology and TGH to bring world-class care to Tampa Bay,” stated Lew man. “The endeavor will al low TGH to streamline care between the inpatient and outpatient settings, ensuring our patients receive a seam less and high-quality expe rience across the system of care. Additionally, increasing our footprint by 21 locations means that Tampa General patients can get the care and diagnostics they need closer to Namedhome.”tothe enterprise imaging position in January of this year, Lewman brings more than two decades of experience to her role. She is a certified nuclear medicine technologist (CNMT) and holds a master’s degree in health administration from Flori da Atlantic University in Boca Raton. Future plans call for more investment in innovation and expansion of the outpatient radiology footprint throughout the state while con tinuing to set the standard in radiology with excellent service and advanced technology. TGH Imaging powered by Tower is ac credited in nine radiology modalities by the American College of Radiology, has been awarded a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence and designated as a Lung Cancer Screening Center. Tower’s 65-plus board-certified radiologists hold certifica tions in all 11 radiology subspecialties and participate in the academic missions of research and teaching through serving as faculty for USF College of Medicine, Depart ment of Radiology. For more information, go to www.tghimaging.com. BY

Page 16 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

FOR EQUITY AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

HOWELL NAMES FIRST-EVER ASSISTANT

Report

TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL AND TOWER RADIOLOGY CREATE TGH IMAGING POWERED

Photo courtesy of TGH Imaging powered by Tower. Sherri Lewman, senior vice president of enterprise imaging at TGH Imaging powered by Tower.

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Page 17Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022

Jennifer Langston with Benson (left) and Cole (right).

By Deven King

Photo by Linda Chion. At the July 26 meeting at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library in Valrico (from left to right): Katie Habgood, senior planner with PSG consulting; John Patrick with Hill sborough County; and outreach consultant Tammy Vrana of Vrana Consulting Inc.

With the pandemic and inflation, taking care of pets has be come more expensive especially for pets that are sick or elderly. In Wesley Chapel, Jennifer Langston started Gold en Ears Sanctuary to take care of such dogs. Golden Ears Sanctu ary is completely oper ated by Langston with the occasional help of volunteers; the care taking, cleaning and the sanctuary’s social me dia content is all done byTheher. Sanctuary is complete with an acre of land, chickens, tur keys, a tortoise and five cats, and the dogs are entirely cage-free, have free access to the out doors and have their ownCurrently,beds. the Sanctuary has 18 dogs that all live with Langston in her home. Langston takes in dogs that are 10 years or older or have severe medical conditions and were abandoned by their owners. Langston said, “Golden Ears was created as a sanctuary for senior hospice dogs. A lot of senior and extremely medical-needy dogs are abandoned at shelters or worse sometimes, so I strive to provide a loving home for the dogs.” On the Golden Ears Sanctuary website, Langston has Amazon Wish Lists that people can purchase things for the dogs. The community is also able to help through donating money with AmazonSmile shopping, In Memory donations and donating regularly through the sanctuary’s website. People who work at businesses that double donations can also register Golden Ears Sanctuary in their company’s matching program.OnSaturday, August 20, the sanctuary will have its fourth annual Pins for Pups Bowling Fundraiser at Pin Chas ers in Tampa. The cost is $20 and includes three rounds of bowling, shoes and a donation to GoldenLangstonEars.founded the sanctuary in 2019 after having two older dogs of her own that she couldn’t take care of anymore and giving them up to someone she thought could take care of them. But when she found out that the lady wasn’t taking care of them, she got them back and commemorated their memory by starting Golden Ears so she could help other old and sufering dogs, wanting them to have a caring and loving home as they pass. For more information or to donate, call 813-789-3371 or visit https://goldene arsrescue.org/.

Indeed, at the Bloomingdale Library on July 26, posted comments included demands for more mountain bike trails and dedicated bike lanes; sidewalk improvements and addi tions; wildlife corridors; destination features, including brew pubs and live music; and con nectivity improvements, such as to schools, stores and restaurants. One comment asked for connecting the Croom Rital Road trail to the Valrico/Lithia area. While broad in many aspects, some rec ommendations were more particular in nature, including one for trail repaving at Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park and one for another canoe launch on the Alafia River. “It’s very important to look at more trails, how we can meet the needs of residents and how many we need as well,” Patrick said. To read online comments and view the Greenways Master Plan update overview, including maps, cost and timelines details, visit www.publicinput.com/D2816. By Linda Chion

GOLDEN EARS SANCTUARY OFFERS ELDERLY AND SICK DOGS WITH A LOVING HOME

Paved and unpaved trails for fitness, sports, recreation and transportation, and adding a lot more of them, is representative of the work of Hillsbor ough County ofcials set to update the Gre enways Master Plan, which afects bikers, boaters, equestrians and pedestrians alike. That’s what brought John Patrick, the county’s division di rector for infrastructurestrategicplanning, to the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library in Valrico in July, as well as to the SouthShore Regional Library in Ruskin and the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Li brary in Tampa. An August 1 virtual meeting was scheduled as well. Hillsborough County commissioners, at their March 23 meeting, approved an update to the 1995 Hillsborough Greenways Master Plan. Recommendations for a variety of gre enways, including natural surfaces, paved trails, natural surface trails and blueways (or recreational waterways) were to be pre sented at the board’s August 15 meeting. “The philosophy of the master plan then concerned quality of life infrastructure, pro viding trails as a place to bike safely and take the family for a walk,” Patrick said at the Bloomingdale Library meeting. “Now the philosophy is changing to include trails need ed to go places for work as well.” At the library meetings, attendees lis tened to a project overview, accessible as well on the county’s virtual engagement and education hub, which also asked for com ments from equestri ans, mountain bikers, hikers and more. “We want residents to tell us where they would put their mon ey, we want them to give us input on that,” Patrick said. “Not sur prising, it is Florida, we heard people want shaded trees along the trails. They want shared-use pads, for sharing trails with bik ers and pedestrians, and they want connec tivity. They want to go somewhere.”

Dogs at Golden Ears Sanctuary having snuggle Sundays with volunteers.

Itzhak Perlman (shown in the circle), a legendary violinist, will display his talents in his perform with Te Florida Orchestra for its 55th Celebration con cert on Saturday, October 1.

Page 18 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8 REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2022 VPK • Class times: Tues - Fri 8:30am -12:15pm • Accelerated Pre-K Curriculum with Math, Science,Spanish, Music, Sign Language & More • Preparation for National Kindergarten Standards • Must be 4 years old by September 1, 2022 • Must be Florida resident Dr. Priya Reddy M.D. FACR Board Certifed Rheumatologist Dr. Gina Prakash M.D. Board Certifed Rheumatologist Dr. Atefeh Vafa M.D. Board Certifed Rheumatologist Teena Lukose PA-C Specializing in treatment of: • Rheumatoid Arthritis • Psoriatic Arthritis • Osteoporosis • Gout • Osteoarthritis • OnLupusSite:•Lab•Ultrasound•InfusionSuite•ClinicalResearch813-672-2243www.SWFLRHEUM.com NewAcceptingPatients MostAcceptedInsurance Two Convenient Locations: 11954 Boyette Rd., Riverview | 4002 Sun City Center Blvd. Ste. 101 INSURANCE!ACCEPTINGNOWTRICARE Securities ofered through J.W. Cole Financial, Inc. (JWC), Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services ofered through J.W. Cole Advisors, Inc. (JWCA). Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC. and JWC & JWCA are unafliated entities. Michael Beiter, Sr. Christian Beiter, CFP® COMPREHENSIVE LANNING ESTATE PLANNING • LONG-TERM CARE • LIFE INSURANCE MEDICARE COVERAGE • COLLEGE PLANNING "We are here for you and for all your fnancial planning and insurance needs." 813-627-0872 912 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, FL www.preservation1st.com33511 Securities ofered through J.W. Cole Financial, Inc. (JWC), Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services ofered through J.W. Cole Advisors, Inc. (JWCA). Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC and JWC & JWCA are unafliated entities. Non-security products are not ofered by J.W. Cole. fnancial and hap.m.Octoberontion55th(TFO)OrchestraTheperformPerlmanstarviolinLegendarysuperItzhakwillwithFloridaforitsCelebraconcertSaturday,1at8attheMa fey Theater, conducted by TFO music di rector Michael Francis. The benefit concert launches the 2022-23 season and supports TFO’s music and education programs. Undeniably the reigning virtuoso of the violin, Perlman enjoys a superstar status rarely aforded a classical musician. He will join the orchestra for its 55th season opener to perform some of his favorite movie mu sic, including the theme from Schindler’s List — which he performed in the Academy Award-winning film — along with “As Time Goes By” from Casablanca, the love theme from Cinema Paradiso and more. Beloved for his charm and humanity as well as his talent, Perlman has received 16 Grammy Awards, four Emmy Awards, a Kennedy Center Honor, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a Genesis Prize. Perlman has also received multiple distinc tions from U.S. presidents, including a Presi dential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s high est civilian honor, in 2015. For more about Perlman, visit https://itzhakperlman.com/. Concert tickets are $75, $125, $175 and $225. Limited individual VIP tickets will be available for $550. All tickets are available at http://floridaorchestra.org/, the TFO Ticker Center or by calling 727-892-3337 or –CenteratbarconcertconcertandareselectVIP1-800-662-7286.individualandsponsorshipslimitedavailabilityincludepremiumseating,aprereceptionwithandhorsd’oeuvrestheDukeEnergyfortheArtsMaha fey Theater overlooking the St. Petersburg waterfront. Sponsorships of featured guest artist, con ductor, concertmaster and concert program music selections include other benefits. For information, please contact TFO chief devel opment ofcer Susana Weymouth at 727362-5430 or sweymouth@floridaorches tra.org.Thefollowing weekend, Friday to Sunday, October 7-9, Maestro Francis will debut the Hough Family Foundation Masterworks se ries with the iconic Carmina Burana, kick ing of the classical series that includes Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, Rachmani nof ’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and much more. The Raymond James Pops series includes blockbusters such as Harry Potter vs Star Wars and the Beatles’ iconic Abbey Road album. TFO will perform more than 100 concerts this season in venues throughout Tampa Bay. Single and season tickets are available now. The Mahafey Theater is located at 400 1st St. S. in St. Petersburg. The TFO Ticket Center is located at 244 2nd Ave. N., First Floor in St. Petersburg and is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more infor mation, visit http://floridaorchestra.org/. THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA’S 55TH CELEBRATION BENEFIT CONCERT FEATURES ITZHAK PERLMAN Staf Report

St. Stephen Catholic Church Announces XLT Praise And Workshop Events

Pelican Players Com plimentary Shows Pelican Players Commu nity Theater is proud to present two complimentary shows on September 15. Join them to see The Twi light Zone - To Serve Man, directed by Ron Deitsch, and Father Knows Best - The Housekeeper , directed by Leslie Stull. Doors open at 6 p.m., and curtain time 6:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend. The Kings Point Veterans Theater North is located at 1900 Clubhouse Dr., in Sun City Cen ter, please feel free to bring your own drinks, snacks and cups. Visit www. pelicanplayersscc.org for more infor mation. Plant City Community Chorale Seeking Singers

ECHO Thrift Named One Of The Best Of The Best In Tampa Bay The ECHO Thrift store, located at 424 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, has been presented with a silver award in the Best of the Best People’s Choice Awards presented by the Tampa Bay Times. Last year, it received a bronze recognition, and it couldn’t be prouder of its amazing staff and volunteers who bumped them to receiving the silver award. Every dollar earned from sales at the thrift store goes right back into its mission of providing immediate and long-term solutions for our neighbors in need. Additional information can be found on its website at www.echofl.org.

A Kitten Place, Garage Sale,

Strawberry Ball Do nates $50,000 To Food Bank

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Phil Waldren presents check for $50,000 to United Food Bank of Plant City.

The Plant City Community Chorale began rehearsals on August 15 at the First United Methodist Church, located at 303 N. Evers St. in Plant City, in preparation for its fall concert. Rehearsals are every Monday night from 7-9:30 p.m., and it would love to have new mem bers join in. It has members of all ages who sing songs from all genres, and most of all, they have fun. If you love to sing, go and see what it is all about. Additional information can be found on its website at www.pccchorale.org, by callingpccchoraleseretary@gmail.comemailingorby813-965-7213.

A Kitten Place Rescue Looking For Vendors And Sponsors For

Local cat and kitten rescue A Kitten Place is holding its annual Black Cat Hallow een Run on Sun day, October 30 at Twin Lakes and is looking for ven dors and corpo rate sponsors for the event. Last year, the 5K run had over 175 participants. If you are interested and would like more information or register for the event, please email akittenplace@gmail.com.

Up Up and Away Florida Inc., a 501(c) (3) nonprofit proudly presented Polk County Veterans Council a donation for their upcoming Flight to Honor Mission #8. The Up Up and Away Florida hot air balloon festival held this past May was a three-day event that included hot air balloons, bands, attractions and ven dors. For more information on Up Up and Away Florida, visit its website at www.upupandawayflorida.com.

RP Funding Center Conces sion Stand Goes Cashless

XLT stands for ‘Exalt’ and is designed for participants to spend time in the presence of the Lord. The Blessed Sac rament, which Catholics know is the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of the Lord, is placed in a monstrance for ado ration. There is time for self-reflection, community prayer, and contemporary Christian music. With the Blessed Sacrament exposed, XLT Praise and Worship is one of the most powerful forms of prayer outside of the Holy Mass. XLT Praise and Worship will take place on the second Friday of every month from 7-8 p.m. at the St. Stephen Chapel, located at 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in Riverview. For more informa tion, visit its website at www. ststephencatholic.org.

5K Run

Cruise Planners Presents Ho listically Harmonized Event Cruise Planners of Valrico is present ing a women-only event, Holistically Harmonized Retreat. The event will take place from Friday to Sunday, Oc tober 7-9 at a central Florida mansion. It is meant to help attendees replenish their spirits, rejuvenate their minds and bring balance to their bodies. It will also help teach the different methods of self-care. Services included in the weekend are facials, massages, yoga classes, cooking classes and self-care classes. All food and drinks, plus a swag bag, are also included. For more information, visit its website at site/holistically-harmonized.https://cpofvalrico.square.

Your Next Step Is The Cure 5K Run Your Next Step is the Cure 5K run in Lithia will be tak ing place on Saturday, Oc tober 1. You can either run the easy 5K route from Park Square in Lithia or sign up for the new virtual option, which is especially helpful to encourage family and friends who do not live locally to sign up. All mon ies raised goes directly to the Melano ma Research Foundation. Visit stepisthecure@aol.com.ingaretionstepisthecurerunsignup.com/race/fl/lithia/yournexthttps://foradditionalinformaandtoregisterfortheevent.Ifyouinterestedinsponsoringordonattotheevent,pleaseemailyournext

Up Up And Away Florida Makes Donation To Flight To Honor

The RP Funding Center in Lakeland has gone cashless at its concession stands. All payments at the concession stands will be by credit card, debit card and mobile payment only, including Apple Pay. By going cashless, the venue will help prevent loss from hu man error or theft, promote safety and en hance the visi tor experience, as cashless transactions reduce wait times. Cash payments will still be ac cepted at the RP Funding box office for all other transactions.

The Bloomingdale Neighborhood Community Garage Sale is on Saturday, September 12 starting at 8 a.m. This annual sale features homes throughout the Bloomingda le East and ing,furniture,enincludingallyofAneighborhoods.Westwidevarietyitemsareusuavailable,kitchwares,books,clothtoysandgames and furniture. Ad dresses will be posted on the Blooming dale Neighborhood Association website at www.bloomingdale.life.com. To have your house listed, email bl.neighbor1@ gmail.com or call 813-681-2051.

More...

Bloomingdale Neighborhood Garage Sale

The Florida Strawberry Festival presented the pro ceeds from its annual Strawberry Ball to the United Food Bank of Plant City. “This year’s Strawberry Ball was a huge success,” said Phil Waldron, Florida Strawberry Festival chairman of the board. “Everyone enjoyed the food, the danc ing, the theme, the entertainment and of course the fellowship.” The event raised a total of $50,000 for the near by food bank.

Compiled by Jenny jbennett@ospreyobserver.comBennett 5K &

A 40-year retrospective by two of to day’s most influential photo-based artists, Dawoud Bey and Carrie Mae Weems, is on view at the Tampa Museum of Art (TMA) until Sunday, October 23 for the first stop in a nationwide tour. Organized by the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) and sponsored by Bank of America, Dawoud Bey & Carrie Mae Weems: In Dialogue is the first exhibi tion to bring their work together exclusively. “We’re thrilled to partner with GRAM to bring such a historically significant exhibi tion to Florida,” said Michael Tomor, Penny and Jef Vinik executive director at TMA. Chief curator of GRAM Ron Platt said, “Dawoud Bey and Carrie Mae Weems have always sought to create works of art that expand the way we think about the world. Both artists have been united in their com mitment to amplifying authentic Black ex periences and images, recognizing those important perspectives and insights were overlooked and sorely lacking within the field of photography.” Both born in 1953, Bey and Weems found motivation for their art in the changing American social landscape of their youth. Since meeting in a photography class taught by Bey at the Stu dio Museum in Harlem in 1976, they have been intellectual colleagues and close friends, each exploring similar themes of race, class, represen tation and systems of power throughout their careers.“Carrie Mae Weems and I have been carrying on a personal conver sation for more than 40 years,” said Bey. “We both see ourselves in conversa tion with history, both broadly and within the sphere of African American culture. We’ve nurtured each other’s burning desire to contribute meaningfully to the long histo ry of Black expressive excellence. Hopefully, this exhibition [curated by] the Grand Rap ids Art Museum reveals that the conver sation that Carrie and I have had has both buoyed each other’s work and produced something of lasting meaning and value.” In Dialogue pairs the artists’ work in five sections that emphasize both their distinct artistic approaches and their shared inter ests and concerns: Early Work, Broadening the Scope, Resurrecting Black Histories, Memorial and Requiem as well as Revela tions in the Landscape. Also featured are videos by Bey and Weems showing their approaches to the moving photographic image as an extension of their still photo graphic series. For tickets and information, visit tam pamuseum.org or call 813-274-8130. Lo cated at 120 W. Gasparilla Plz. in Tampa, the Tampa Museum of Art is open Monday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., with Thurs days being from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

bringing together 40 years of work by Dawoud Bey and Carrie Mae Weems. DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES Advertise in this directory for just $50 per ad ,or as low as $200 per month (INCLUDES ALL 5 EDITIONS) Call Us Today! (813) 657-2418 or Visit OspreyObserver.com PAINTING PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SPECIALISTS Celebrating 30+ Years In Business “20 Year Osprey Advertising Partner” ESTIMATESFREE ALL WORK GUARANTEED Residential & CommercialInstallationCommercial&RepairRefrigeration(813)671-2555 HEAT & AC Family Owned and Operated Fans & Fixtures • Panel Changes Boat Docks • Pool & Spa Wiring Generators & Surge Protectors Remodels • Exterior & Specialty Lighting www.BryanHindmanElectric.com813-672-4084 Florida State Certifed Electrical Contractor | EC#13004922 ELECTRICIAN Residential and TNTtermiteandpestcontrol.com(813)716-9196CommercialLOCAL&FAMILYOWNED“DYNAMITECUSTOMERSERVICE” PEST CONTROL ACCOUNTING GARY D. MEYER Certified PubliC ACCountAnt • Accounting & Bookkeeping • Compiled Financial Statement Presentations • Tax Return Preparation for Individuals, Corporations, LLC’s and Partnerships • Consulting for New Business Startups • Financial & Estate Planning 813-971-4067 gmeyer4@tampabay.rr.com Serving the Tampa Bay Area Since 1980 PRESCHOOL 861 Lithia Open813-653-9595Pinecrest7Days$5OFF(NEWCUSTOMERSONLY) BARBER BARBER DOG TRAINING allamericandog.net813-685-6666 • Puppy Training • Obedience Training • CGC & Therapy Training • Service Training • PTSD Training • Protection Training • Aggression or County Citation “Since

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART PRESENTS 40 YEARS OF GROUNDBREAKING PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAWOUD BEY AND CARRIE MAE WEEMS Staf Report

Staf Report

Page 20 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

The Florida Straw berry Festival an nounced today that Kyle Robinson has become its new president-elect, efective immediately. He has replaced Paul Davis, who is retiring in April of 2023. As stagets,dayofand2023alongsideRobinsonpresident-elect,willworkDavisfortheFestivalseasondirectlyoverseeallthefestival’sday-to-operations,budmarketingand f Davisng. will continue his role as president of the festival while work ing with the board of directors and associate directors and providing the full benefit of his expertise, leadership and guidance to ensure a smooth and successful transition through the end of his term. “Kyle will be the 12th president/general manager in the festival’s 92nd-year history,” said Davis. “The board of directors and I are confident that Kyle is the right person for the job. He has worked security at our Fes tival for 25 years now and knows our event so well. I have worked with Kyle and know firsthand his work ethic and his compassion for those under his command.” Robinson, a lifelong Plant City resident, served as a colonel within the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce before retiring. Throughout his 27-year career, he has had an outstanding record of service, work ing in the Criminal Investigations Division, Special Investigations Division, Department of Patrol Services and Professional Standards Section.“Thefestival has been a large part of my life; some of my fondest memories were made here. It’s an incredible opportunity to serve the festival and this great community,” said Flori da Strawberry Festival President-Elect Kyle Robinson. “I am confi dent moving into this new position because the festival has an en gaged, experienced and knowledgeable board of directors and associate directors to rely upon for guidance. The insight I’ve gained from my ex perience in working the festival with the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce has pre pared me to ofer festival guests with qual ity customer service interactions. Not too many people can say they have worked two dream jobs in their lifetime. I am blessed.” “I love the festival and feel that Kyle will bring a great ‘teamwork’ perspective and lead this great organization well in the fu ture,” continued Davis. “Kyle has a genuine love for people, is a good family man and will be a great fit for our team. We are honored to have him.” The 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival takes place from March 2-12. For more in formation, visit www.flstrawberryfestival. com or its Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages (#BerryFest23).

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FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES

NEW PRESIDENT-ELECT

Kyle Robinson, the Florida Strawberry Festival’s new president-elect.

Dawoud Bey & Carrie Mae Weems: In Dialogue is on view at the Tampa Museum of Art, 1972”

According to CEO Stacy Garcia, “We want to help those individ uals who feel helpless in the face of ad versity and strife.” In the past two years, ROTH has par ticipated alongside other local organi zations on a case-to-case basis, o f ering individuals the assistance they need to rejoin society. In one particular case, they were even able to give a young man a car in order to facilitate his ability to secure a consistent job. Currently, ROTH is planning its biggest event yet, Champagne Royale, which will be held on Fri day, September 30 at 7 p.m. at the Cu ban Club in Tampa. A prohibition era-style cocktail and cigar ex perience, Champagne Royale will be the first gala fundraising event for the organi zation, complete with personalized deco rations provided by local business Posy Exchange.Guests may pur chase general ad mission tickets for $75, or VIP tickets for $250. Both tickets include an open bar and casino gaming, but VIP guests will enjoy a bit more luxury with swag bags, signature cigars, a ci gar lounge and a speakeasy experience. Businesses are also able to sponsor the event; seven di f erent sponsorship levels are available on the ROTH website. Proceeds from the event will allow ROTH to jumpstart its outreach like nev er before, funding further projects as well as giving it the ability to help far more individuals. For tickets, sponsorships and more information on the Champagne Royale event, visit heart.org/champagne-royale.www.rehabilitationofthe

Page 21Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022 $10 OFF ANYDRYTREATMENTORLIQUID For Pre Pay Customers Only GRASSWEEDFree&CRABCONTROL New Customers Only Now $45 per month You Get Protection Ticks, Fleas, Fire Ants, Chinch Bugs, Mole Crickets, Sod Weed Worms, Grubs and much more. Plus Fungus & Weeds and Premium Fertilizer Commercial & Residential - Fungicide - Fertilizing Insecticide - Weed Control Tree & Shrub Treatment With a Healthy lawn less water is required! FREE ESTIMATES! Family Owned & Operated State Certifed Licensed & Insured Up to 5000 sq ft $45 per month Now $48 per month Up to 5000 sq ft $48 per month Recidivism, or the tendency of criminals to reo f end, has been a prominent social issue for years. Once released, many crimi nals find it exception ally di f cult to find homes, get secure jobs and reestablish their reputations in society. This is exactly what motivates local organization Rehabil itation of the Heart (ROTH). Founded in 2020, ROTH is a vol unteer-based orga nization whose mis sion is to close the revolving door and bersductivetentialreachex-convictsallowtotheirpoaspromemofsociety.

REHABILITATION OF THE HEART TO HOST CHAMPAGNE ROYALE TO RESTORE HOPE IN THE COMMUNITY

By Nick Edwards

Stacy Garcia, founder and CEO of Rehabilitation of the Heart.

Page 22 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8 Are you in volved in a community or ganization and have an idea for a restoration or education proj ect in Tampa Bay? If you are, then you may be interested to know that the Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP) is now accepting Bay Mini-Grant project proposals.TheTBEP Bay Mini-Grants are competitive cash awards of up to $5,000 provided to community organizations for projects that address restoration and edu cation priorities in Tampa Bay, empowering participatory science, promoting environ mental ethics and stimulating community stewardship.Projectsmust address one or more of TBEP’s Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP) priorities: clean waters and sediments, thriving habitats and abundant wildlife as well as an informed, en gaged and responsible community. Each year, TBEP highlights a specific CCMP action to prioritize for Bay Mini-Grant funding. This year, projects supporting the prevention, eradication and/or management of invasive species in Tampa and its water shed will be prioritized for funding. Past Bay Mini-Grant projects have includ ed Florida native plantings at local parks, marine educational workshops for Tampa Bay teachers, bird nesting documentaries and citizen science projects researching en docrine disrup tors in andneighborhoods16.day,isBaytionmeadows.seagrassTheapplicadeadlineforMini-Grants5p.m.onFriSeptemberSchools,othernon profit and for-profit organizations from Hillsborough, Mana tee, Pasco and Pinellas counties may apply. On average, 20 projects are funded each year with about $90,000 in grants. A ‘Golden Mangrove Award’ is given every year to the outstand ing Bay Mini-Grant project as determined by the TBEP Community Advisory Committee. All Bay Mini-Grants awarded to commu nity organizations for education and resto ration projects are funded by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program Specialty License Plate, or the ‘Tarpon Tag.’ The Tarpon Tag is one of the least expensive specialty plates at just $15 per year, and all of the revenue goes directly towards protecting and restoring Tampa Bay. To obtain a Tarpon Tag and di rectly support this grant program for years to come, simply visit your local DMV. Additional Bay Mini-Grant information, including grant eligibility, application review criteria and grant priorities can be found sscolaro@tbep.org.ro,competitiveassistancesearch/bay-mini-grants/.https://tbep.org/our-work/restoration-reatForquestionsorwithtransforminganideaintoaproposal,contactSheilaScolaTBEPcommunityprogramsscientist,at

TAMPA BAY ESTUARY PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING 2022 BAY MINI-GRANT PROJECT PROPOSALS Staf Have an ener getic furry friend and want to take advantage of the summer weather? Local dog parks in southeastern Hill sborough County are the way to go with a host of opportunities to support a wide range of commu nity members and their pets’ needs. Extending from the Apollo ner, each designated space provides a series of benefits and ame nities that cater to visiting dogs and their Open from sunrise to 9 p.m., Apollo Beach along Golf and Sea Boulevard is ed and under regulation by Hillsbor ough County. The space features dog water fountains, a rinsing station, agility obstacles, hills and pole elements for training. Two distinct access areas, separate from one an other, exist for both small and large dogs. A hitching post and doggy mitt receptacles top of the pet facilities, but resources for owners encompass picnic tables, a sitting area and a close proximity to the tennis court and skate park also within the Apol lo Beach Park. Visitors should refrain from dropping by on Wednesdays until 12 Noon due to maintenance work. For more infor mation on this park, please call 813-6717635.Located along 3rd Avenue Southeast, Dr. Ott’s Dog Park remains another great option for dog owners in Ruskin. Open Thursday through Sunday, the park’s hours extend from 7:30 a.m. to sunset. Dr. Hal Ott, a retired veterinarian of the area and founder of the Ruskin Animal Hospital and Cat Clinic, developed this park to ofer an of-leash space. It is complete with a walk ing trail, chicken coop, picnic tables, high and low grassy areas, benches and separate eas. Plastic bags are also made available throughout the park. More information can be found by visiting http://ottsofeashdogsanctuary.com/. Saladino Dog Park serves the Brandon area along Bryan Road and is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Boasting separate areas for small and large dog access, ame nities also include picnic tables and shelters, dog washes, a hitching post, doggy mitt re ceptacles and various water fountains serv ing humans and dogs alike. Bathrooms and shaded benches are available as well, and the dog park is located within the greater Bertha and Tony Saladino Park. Regulated by Hillsborough County, additional informa tion can be found by calling 813-744-5978. Mango Dog Park, located along Clay Pit Road, caters to the Sefner area daily from sunrise to sunset. The space ofers dog washes, water fountains, two separate ac cess areas for both small and large dogs, a hitching post and doggy mitt receptacles. For owners, there are picnic shelters and tables, restrooms and a small playground outside of the park. For more information on the county regulated space, please call 813635-7489.Formore general information on dog parks across Hillsborough County, please visit https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/.

By Madeline Gardner

Report

Open daily from sunrise to sunset, Saladino Dog Park promotes two separate access areas for both small and large dogs.

PLENTY OF PLACES FOR THE PUPS TO PLAY! DOG PARKS IN S.E. HILLSBOROUGH

Page 23Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022 <<< Alex (Owner) with his sons... “Our next generation of roofers!” Family owned business serving our neighbors since 1981! Celebrating 41 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof? Do you think your roof may have wind damage? DO NOT REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITHOUT LETTING US TAKE A 813-643-8333LOOK! www.CertifedRoofers.com ROOF REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT SERVICES

Page 24 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

Brandon/WinthropAugust 2022, Vol. 17, Iss. 8

Home 2 Care Luxury Concierge Healthcare Clinic In Brandon During the COVID-19 pandemic, India Presley-Boyd was released from her po sition as a nurse practitioner. Determined not to give up on her dream, she decided to move closer to home and create a prac tice that could not only allow her to con tinue living her dream but also increase access to quality health care.

Eats At Te Cottage Opens At Old Ruth’s Cafe Location Hunter Giambra opened Hunter’s Brunch Shack in March to much applause, and it didn’t take him long to realize that he wanted a dinner location as well. When Ruth’s Cafe became available, he approached it with a deal to open Eats At The Cottage at the loca tion and keep many of the staf that patrons know and love. It will serve dinner on week days and breakfast, lunch and dinner on the weekends.EatsAt The Cottage is located at 7409 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview. For more infor mation, visit https://eatsatthecottage.com/ or Facebook @eatsatthecottage.

Congratulations To Andy Tekampe With TNT Termite And Pest Control Congratulations to Andy Tekampe of TNT Termite and Pest Control! He scored an A on his Florida Termite Exam and is now fully certified in pest control and termite control.

Hunter Giambra, owner of Hunter’s Brunch shack and Eats At Te Cottage.

Latitudes Tours Recognized As A Traveler’s Choice Award Winner

Latitudes Tours of Ruskin has been rec ognized by Tripadvisor as a 2022 Traveler’s Choice award winner in the tours and out door activities category. The award cele brates businesses that have received great reviews from travelers on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months. As challenging as the last year was, Latitudes Tours stood out by consistently delivering positive experiences. Captain Dave, owner of the business, said, “Every tour is unique, from the music selection to the narration. We always put the customer first and tailor each tour experience to the people we have on board.” For a limited time, Latitudes Tours has a summer spe cial in which kids under 12 cruise free (10 a.m. tour only) with a pay ing adult. 813-641-1311Call to reserve your spot. Latitudes Tours is located at 580 Bahia Beach Blvd. in Ruskin. For more information on tours, visit its website at www.latitudestours.com.

India Presley-Boyd, owner and nurse practitioner of Home 2 Care. Andy Tekampe aced the Flori da Termite Exam.

Virtual Dementia Tour Coming To Tessera Of Brandon The Virtual Dementia Tour ofers a 10-min ute immersion into the world of dementia and allows you to walk in the shoes of some one with dementia to enhance your sense of empathy. You may ex perience andfrustrationconfusion,theemotions associated with memory loss. Through this tour, you will leave with a better understanding for living with dementia. The tour is visiting Tes sera of Brandon, an assisted living and mem ory care community located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. The Vitual Dementia Tour will take place on Friday, September 9 from 2-4 p.m. Please call 813-607-6880 to reserve a place.

Home 2 Care is located at 673 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. To find out more, visit its website at www.home3carefl.com.

Mighty Heroes Nutrition Supports Small But Mighty Heroes Nonproft Small but Mighty Heroes is a nonprofit ded icated to helping children as they fight can cer. Its mission is to help spread awareness of pe diatric cancer and to be the voice for these amaz ing warriors. It aims to help people through their battle while being fo cused on their needs and remaining constant and supportive. One of the ways Small but Mighty Heroes is funded is through Mighty Heroes Nutrition, which serves nutritional shakes, teas, cofees, lemonade and more. It is located at 3240 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 103 in Valrico. For more information, visit its website at www.smallbutmightyheroes.org or Facebook page @Mightyheroesnutrition.

Home 2 Care is a luxury concierge-style health care clinic that provides access to pri mary care services on a subscription or fee service basis. Services include well visits, sick visits, chronic disease management and weight loss, among oth ers. Subscriptions are ofered for as low as $100 a month, which includes direct access to your provider 24/7 via texts or calls, un limited ofce and telemedicine visits, sameday or next-day appointments, little or no ofce wait times, relaxed appointments and discounts on medicines and labs.

Eggs Up Grill Features In 727 To 813 Celebration Join Eggs Up Grill as it joins in The Identity Tampa Bay’s annual 727 to 813 celebration. The celebration is an annual series of events held in the Tampa Bay metro area with the goal of highlighting the unique com munities. Eggs Up Grill has a special menu for the event featuring unique breakfast, brunch and lunch entrees such as 727cheesehousecakescheesecakestrawberrypanandsmokemacandbowl.Theto813celebration runs until Saturday, August 13. Eggs Up Grill is located at 3920 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview and is open sev en days a week. For more information, visit eugriverview on all social media platforms.

FAMILY-OWNED GECKO FLOOR CARE HANDLES SERVICES PROFESSIONALLY

By Taylor Wells

Remodel Of Plant City Tractor Sup ply Company Now Complete Tractor Supply Company has completed the remodel of the entire Plant City store, which it said will transform the shopping ex perience for customers. The enhanced store features an improved layout for convenient and accessible shopping as well as a new Customer Service Hub with upgraded digital tools to help customers find what they need.

Page 26 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

When it comes to cleaning your floor, not only is there much work to do but also there’s quite a bit of know-how needed, such as the proper cleaning solutions, methods and equip ment. If you have flooring that must be cleaned, getting pro fessionals like Gecko Floor Care is best. Gecko Floor Care is a family-owned and operated business that has been around for seven years now. It be gan with founder and owner Dennis Napoli wanting to operate a business with his whole family, including his wife, Lori Napoli, and their two sons, Kevin and Eric. The family came from Cleveland to live in Florida in 2015 and started the com pany soon after. “We moved down here and started from scratch. I had had some experience with steam cleaning in the past, but I decided to go into Gecko Floor with my sons,” said Dennis.“Iwanted a business that they could grow, and basically I always wanted to have a family business with them,” he added. Gecko Floor Care provides services for both residential and commercial properties, typically doing residential cleaning between 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. and saving commercial cleanings for later in the day to not interrupt businesses’ operating hours. Its services in clude cleaning carpets; area rugs; tiles and grout; wood, concrete and luxury vinyl floors; and upholstery, and it also does pet stain removal and pressure washing.AtGecko Floor Care, its cleaners are expe rienced, trained pro fessionals, as they did training through the Carpet and Rug Insti tute and IICRC. What’s more, the business was presented with the Best of the Best Peo ple’s Choice Award for Best Carpet Cleaning in 2019 and 2020 by the Tampa Bay Times “These are truly the best floor cleaners out there! I’m beyond happy to find out that it’s a father and son team as well,” said custom er Jessie D. Ronnie N., another customer, said, “Just had our tile, grout and an area rug cleaned and couldn’t be happier. We’ve used Gecko Floor Care a couple of times now and always happy with the results.” So, no matter the spill, stain or filth, you can be assured that Gecko Floor Care will make your floors good as new. Plus, every thing it uses is kid and pet-friendly. For information, visit www.geckofloor care.com or check out its Facebook page @geckofloorcare. To book an appointment, call 813-924-7344.

Dennis Napoli, between his sons Eric (left) and Kevin Napoli (right), holding the Best of the Best People’s Choice Award for Best Carpet Cleaning that Gecko Floor Care won in 2019.

T&J Painting Is Hiring T&J Painting is looking for a positive painter who wants to grow with a fami ly-owned company. Wouldn’t it be nice to come and work for a company that actual ly appreciates you, thanks you for all your hard work and has benefits for you? If you are tired of not feeling appreciated, then maybe a change is what you need. Call T&J Painting at 813723-9124 to see how you can join its amazing team.

Joanna Springstead With Edward Jones Opens New FishHawk Ofce Joanna Springstead, CFP® of the financial services firm Edward Jones has moved to a new location at 13459 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lith ia. Springstead, who joined Edward Jones in 2018, said, “I am thrilled about our new location and am eager to continue to partner with clients and their families in the new space and to help keep them on track toward their individual longterm goals.” She will be hosting an open house in September where guests will have an opportunity to tour the new ofce. For additional information on services provided by Edward Jones, visit its website at www. edwardjones.com or call the ofce at 813657-2078.

BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED...

Contact Tekampe with any pest or termite control questions at 813-468-8574. TNT Termite and Pest Control serves the Bran don and surrounding areas. For more infor mation on its services, visit its website at www.tnttermiteandpestcontrol.com.

David Holland, manager of the store, said, “We are excited for customers to visit our new space that now features more products than ever before, including our new appar el department, expanded feed and food selection and broader tool assortment. We know that customers will love these upgrades as much as we do.” The Plant City Tractor Supply is located at 1803 Jim Redman Pkwy. To learn more about Tractor Supply Company, visit www.tractorsupply.com.

Page 27Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022

• A connection to a licensed clinical social worker at Northside Behavioral Health Center who will provide in-person help to pave the path to feeling better. All of these options 968-6529).OKAY844-YOU-Let’sbyavailablearecallingTalkat(844-

We enter a new academic year full of confidence and excitement as Hills borough County Pub lic Schools is ranked 19th in the state, its highest ranking in history. The incredi ble achievement was realized through the hard work and ded ication of teachers, support staff, leaders, students and families. This celebration is only the beginning of what we will achieve together.Hillsborough County Public Schools is un veiling fresh initiatives and a new school in 2022-23. We are thrilled to add the Dorothy C. York Innovation Academy under the leadership of Principal Missy Lennard to the tradition of excellence in south county. This pre-K-8 school offers another educational option to meet the needs of our growing student popula tion in this area. Our district is also expanding accel erated learning to 13 more high schools and one middle school by adding the Cambridge AICE Program. Under this rigorous pathway, students can earn 100 percent Bright Futures Scholar ships without an SAT score require ment, opening new opportunities for secondary education while decreasing economic barriers. Cambridge AICE was piloted at Sumner High School and will be expanded to Shields Middle School and East Bay and Riverview high schools.

GAINING MOMENTUM FOR THE NEW ACADEMIC YEAR

It is a free, confidential support line for mental health that is available 24/7. “The process of finding help and wait ing for your first appointment can be an overwhelming process,” said Carrie Zeisse, president and CEO of Tampa Bay Thrives. “We are grateful for the vision and commitment of our community lead ers who have come together to add ad ditional access points for mental health support.”Colony Reeves, star of Netflix’s Selling Tampa, was announced as an ambassa dor of Tampa Bay Thrives and shared that she has sought help for depression and still sees a therapist. “What you see is a mask,” said Reeves. “Many people have masks on to hide what they’re going through or what they have been through. And more people have masks on than we know. According to Mental Health America, Florida ranks 49th in the country in terms of access to mental health services. Also, roughly 64 percent of Floridian adults with mental illness, over 1.8 million peo ple in total, are going untreated, an esti mated 54 percent of whom are covered byForinsurance.more information, visit https:// tampabaythrives.org/ or https://let stalktampabay.org/. mental health.

South county will also benefit from a new Bridge to Biliter acy program at Sum merfield Crossings and Dawson elementary schools. It is designed to develop Spanish proficiency for stu dents by providing a full Spanish immersion experience for 50 per cent of the day, learn ing academics in two languages on an alter nating basis. Funded by the Department of De fense, the initiative is slated to expand from two to seven schools within four years. Finally, our district is embarking on a new federal reimbursement program that will offer meals at no cost to more than 80 percent of our student body. The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) allows schools where 40 percent or more of students are categorically el igible for free school meals to provide free meals to all students on that cam pus. More than 170 schools will benefit from this program, which decreases pa perwork for parents, schools and nutri tionWhilestaff.student performance will re main top of mind, so will mental well ness. Our district has received additional funding from the state to bolster coun seling services, including our Mobile Response Unit for students in crisis. We stand ready to remedy the effects of the pandemic while looking forward with optimism as we embark on our quest to become a top-10 school district.

Through thesupportHealth,Baytertal,GeneralCare,tHealth,withpartnershipaAdvenBayTampaHospiCrisisCenofTampaandUSFandfromHillsborough

By Superintendent Addison Davis

Page 28 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

County Commission, Community Foundation of Tampa Bay and Tampa Bay Lightning Foundation, Tampa Bay Thrives recently announced new access points for individuals seeking short-term appointments for their men talThehealth.Let’s Talk line, which launched last year, provides the first step in help ing callers figure out what support they might need for their mental health. This new extension to service now has several additional options to connect directly to help, including:

NEW OFFER FROM TAMPA BAY THRIVES INCLUDES MORE IMMEDIATE MENTAL HEALTH CARE Staf Report Shown are all the organizations and programs striving together to help individuals fgure out what support they might need for their

• An appointment at one of 10 local Ad ventHealth Express Care at Walgreens lo cations where a staf member will assess needs and provide referral to a telehealth counselor for additional support.

• A referral to a licensed counselor at Tampa General’s Urgent Care powered by Fast Track on Water Street in Tampa to help navigate next steps.

We are a 100% Memory Care Community serving the Greater Brandon community for over two decades. (813) 657-8587 | 1819 Providence Ridge Blvd. | Brandon, FL 33511 | SuperiorBrandon.com We would love to show you around Superior Residences of Brandon! Call Troy TODAY to schedule a tour! (813) 657-8587 • Experienced & person-centered memory care-only community • Spacious apartments with private bathrooms • Beautiful and secure outdoor patio area • Inspired three dietary approved meals a day • Comfortable and familiar gathering areas • Weekly housekeeping services • 24/7 nurses, staf and emergency response • Scheduled local transportation and so much more! ALL INCLUSIVE PRICING! WE ACCEPT LONG TERM CARE MEDICAID! LIVE YOUR LIFE TO THE FULLEST AT SUPERIOR RESIDENCES OF BRANDON.

• Short-term telehealth bridge counsel ing for individuals facing long wait times to get into their first appointment. This service is provided by the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and University of South Flori da’s Department of Psychiatry.

Page 29Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022 August 10 is the first day for Hillsbor ough County Public they’llryingersfriends,ofexcitementwearwhatfocusedsome(HCPS).SchoolsWhilekidsareonthey’llortheseeingothareworwhetherhaveapencil or paper to help them succeed in school. In HCPS, three out of five students are from economically disad vantaged families, and many can’t aford the basic supplies their children need as they head back to their classrooms. Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) believes a lack of resources should not be a barrier for students to learn. That’s why in the last school year, HEF provided more than $4.1 million in free supplies to students and teachers at the highest needs schools through the Teaching Tools Re source Center. It was a record-setting year for supply distribution, which shows that the need to support the most vulnerable students is greater than ever, given recent financial hardships for many families. The Teaching Tools Resource Center, lo cated at HEF at 2306 N. Howard Ave. in Tampa, reopened on July 25 for the 202223 school year. Teachers in HCPS Title I schools can shop for core school supplies and other resources needed for their class rooms twice per semester at no cost to them. Last school year, one shopping trip was worth an average of $418 in supplies — that’s an an nual savings of nearly $1,700. All too of ten, dedicat ed teachers will Need2022gotheirforepocketsofsuppliespurchaseouttheirownbelettingstudentswithout.AKidsinsurvey found one out of three teachers spent more than $500 of their personal funds on ma terials for students in the 2021-22 school year.The community can support students and teachers and help stock the store’s shelves by hosting a supply drive at their business or organization, shopping from HEF’s Am azon Wish List at tion.com/.LearntheingratespactstrategicallyTogethertoportingonestablishedtionfoundation.com/donateschoolsupplies.themost-neededmakingregistry/wishlist/30C9IAR0FOBXOwww.amazon.com/gp/oradonationsoHEFcanpurchasethesupplies.Learnmoreaboutwaystogetinvolvedathttps://ducaHillsboroughEducationFoundationwasin1987asanonprofitfocusedstrengtheningpubliceducationbysupteachersandempoweringstudentsachieveacademicandpersonalsuccess.withcommunitypartners,HEFinvestsininitiativesthatimteachingquality,increasegraduationandbuildequityineducation,bolsterathrivingworkforceoftomorrowandsustainableprosperityofTampaBay.moreathttps://educationfounda HEF PROVIDES FREE SCHOOL SUPPLIES TO TEACHERS AT HIGHEST-NEEDS SCHOOLS Staf Report Photo courtesy of Hillsborough Education Foundation. Teachers shopping at Hillsborough Education Foundation’s Teaching Tools Resource Center. The Keller Wil liams Tony Baroni Team brings a cre ative oentsatatecurrentapproachmarketingtotherealesmarketwithnewwayforclitomakecash fers through the new ‘Buy With Cash’Cashprogram.o fers are almost 40 per cent more likely to beat financial bids pa’strueisestate.acompetingwhenforpieceofrealThisespeciallyforTamrealestate market, which sees 40 percent of customers using cash to make a bid on a home. The program allows their clients to get approved for a cash loan through their partnership with Home ward, a real estate agency that works to give clients more leverage to buy the homes they want.

“Our mission is to deliver the promise to our clients. The way we do that is, right up front, we tell our clients we’re going to give them the best real estate experience they’ve ever received,” said Baroni. After the Tony Baroni Team delivers on that promise, they hope their customers will leave them a five-star review and refer their friends and neighbors to the team.For more information on the Tony Bar oni Team, please visit www.tonybaroni. com or call 866-754-1278.

KELLER WILLIAMS TONY BARONI TEAM OFFERS ‘BUY WITH CASH’ PROGRAM TO HELP CLIENTS

Te Tony Baroni Team promises the best real estate experience to their clients.

“Really, you can just go buy a house first, not have to move twice … and put your house on the market after,” ex plained Tony Baroni about the benefit of being able to buy and then sell when looking for a new home through the Buy With Cash program. “It’s a new-age way to make things way more convenient and easy.”The Tony Baroni Team is also hosting an other Call In To Win on Friday, August 12 and are planning to give away four tickets to a Buccaneers preseason game against the Dolphins. The team of 18 real estate agents will give away $2-$5 for each partic ipant who calls in or fills out the online form during the Call In To Win giveaway. The money raised will go to Operation Lotus to help the Baker family who lost their home in a fire in the begin ning of July. Two agents on Baroni’s team have helped so lidify the buythen-sell model the team is hoping to show clients. Lead buyer specialist Kate Conroy and lead list ing agent Craig Kellner have built success ful mini teams that allowed them to sell 161 listings combined while afrming the importance of this model. Their work has also helped the Tony Baroni Team grow and reach more real estate customers.

By Lily Belcher

Coleman didn’t want to rely on medica tion for pain or relief and was looking for a more holistic method of relieving her symptoms.“Myresults have been amazing,” said Coleman who has been a patient for three months. “I think it was just after a couple weeks when the neuropathy was almost fully gone, along with the pain, and I have found that I don’t need as much insulin.”

To start treatment, patients make a consultation appointment and go over treatment and insurance coverage op tions. A patient then goes into an in duction phase, which can be one to two times weekly, and then finally a mainte nance“Thephase.idea behind the treatment is to reverse the cellular damage caused by diabetes,” Dr. Edgerton. The new Florida Diabetes Relieve Cen ters is located at 417 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach. For more information, call 813-322-6090 or visit www.florida diabetesreliefcenters.com.

Only valid at

By Sydney Burken Kerin Clakin is the owner of Te Kerin Group and your point of contact for any hole-in-one contest questions or other event needs.

By Marie Gilmore 8/31/228/31/22to be combined with any other ofer. Only valid at Riverview, FL - Boyette location. other ofer. Riverview, FL - Boyette location.

FLORIDA DIABETES RELIEF GIVES GREAT RESULTS AFTER JUST A FEW TREATMENTS

Page 30 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

Florida Diabetes Relief Centers pro vides a groundbreaking patented therapy called physiologic insulin resensitization (PIR), where insulin is administered as a hormone rather than a drug, “which allows us to address the primary cause of diabetes and meta bolic failure at the cellular level,” said Dr. Eric Edgerton, D.C., owner of Flor ida Diabetes Relief Centers.Coleman has en joyed her treat ments and appre ciates the group setting. “First of all, it’s a very well-run center,” she said. “I think that the idea to get people into a group setting to talk to other patients is very therapeutic. This allows us to net work and discuss our issues and see if we have things in common.”

MaryAnne Coleman has seen great results after just a few weeks of treatment at Florida Diabe tes Clinic with Rhoderick Manhattan, PA-C.

SUMMERFIELD CROSSING GOLF TOURNAMENT PARTICIPANTS CAN WIN $10,000

Kerin Clarkin, also known as Mr. Riverview, is doing it once again. That is, he has partnered with Summerfield Cross ings Golf Club to throw a hole-in-one golf contest on Friday, September 16 from 5:30-10 p.m. where participants will have the chance to win a huge cash prize.Clarkin’s goal behind the hole-in-one contest is to bring continuous fun to the communi ty at no cost. The first 100 people to sign up get a chance to go for a holein-one, and the winner will earn a huge cash prize. If no player is able to make a hole-in-one, everyone, player or not, will be able to play closest-to-the-pin, and the winner will receive a special surprise. During this event, there will be food and drinks available for purchase in theTheclubhouse.Summerfield Crossing hole-in-one tournament is not the first event Clarkin has thrown with Summerfield Crossings Golf Club. His main goal behind each event thrown is to bring fun and free activities for families to take part in and children to enjoy. In previous years, Clarkin has done Christmas toy giveaways, food truck events and Connect Four events in the hopes of bringing enjoyable entertain ment and functions to the Riverview com munity.Notonly has he part nered up with Summer field Crossing Golf Club, but he has also done so with the YMCA for an extreme Easter egg hunt in the past and is current ly teaming up with ‘On Bikes,’ a charity in Tampa that builds bikes for chil dren in need. He also runs a Food and Fun Blog called Fun Tampa that covers all kinds of food, drinks and activities available in Riverview, Tampa, Clear water and other areas. The purpose behind his blog is to help more people be aware of the functions and great food being ofered around and outside the Riv erview“Therecommunity.aretwo goals to doing these kinds of events — one is to continuously get our community together and to have fun. I am just trying to provide as much fun and excitement to our community as I can,” said SummerfieldClarkin.Crossing Golf Club is lo cated at 13050 Summerfield Blvd. in Riv erview. For more information on how to sign up for the hole-in-one tournament or other events and projects Clarkin is a part of, please visit https://thekerin.com/, check out his Facebook page at ‘The Kerin Group,’ email kerin@kw.com or call 813699-1800.

Retired LPN MaryAnne Cole man called a new Apollo Beach clin ic, seeking relief from her diabetes symptoms after battling the disease for more than 20 years. She found a new business, Florida Diabetes Relief Centers, of fering an insulin IV therapy that treat ment customized for every patient that has the goal of reducing insulin dependence and re versing side efects from long-term di abetes.“Iread an article online about the clinic and I saw that it was in Apollo Beach,” said Coleman. “I was having a real issue with neuropathy and I was trying to get relief from it.”

Not

Not to be combined with any

Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved one. Gain this knowledge at our NEW hybrid support groups being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon. Hybrid Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Groups Come a little early for refreshments! 1320 Oakfeld Dr. Brandon, FL 33511 | 813-607-6880 Fourth Tuesday of Every Month at 6:30 pm Meeting in person and via Zoom!!! Zoom Meeting Number 897 6781 0479 Password: evening Fourth Wednesday of Every Month at 2:00 pm Meeting in person and via Zoom!!! ZOOM Meeting Number 869 4044 7508 Password: support #ALFacilityLivingAssisted13150 THE BEST FOOD WWW.TIMETOEATTAMPA.COMSERVICE!DELIVERY

Page 31Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE WITH NEW VITALITY’S 8-WEEK PROGRAM By Makenzie Atkins

Overall, it’s a quick process that will leave your home or business beautifully, freshly painted. And the employees ensure there’s no mess outside or inside by cover ing everything, including plants, windows, floors, furniture and more. “We don’t ask for any money down ei ther. When they’re happy, we’re happy. That’s our motto,” said Murray.

George and Trula Reynolds participated in New Vitality Centers’ eight-week program and are feeling confdent.

Page 32 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

Don’s Bay Area Painting is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., on Sat urday from 9 a.m-12 Noon and is closed on Sunday. For more information, visit https://donsbayareapainting.com/. For a free estimate, call 813-661-9006.

*Ofer valid on new reservations and move-ins to assisted living only that are not through a paid referral source. Now through August 31, 2022, we are waiving the community fee of $2000.* We are also including medication management at no additional charge through December 31, 2022.

Ready to lose weight and actual ly maintain it? Of tentimes, it can be hard to maintain a fad diet and keep of the weight you have lost. That’s why New Vitality Centers, a young company in Bran don, wants to help you feel comfort able in your own body and change your life with its eight-week pro gram.Reaching and staying at your goal weight is very important for living a healthy life. Maintaining a healthy weight prevents cardio vascular disease, high blood pres sure, diabetes, joint issues, poor circulation and much more. Instead of indulging in a quick overnight weight loss fad, New Vitality’s Clean Start Weight Loss program works with you for eight weeks to help you succeed with an easily maintainable lifestyle change. The Clean Start program is a mix of the keto diet and intermittent fasting that evolves into a sort of Mediterranean diet. Though a keto diet consists of mainly eat ing meat and cheese, you do get carbs when partaking in the Clean Start program, just in a healthy way. By including intermittent fasting, you encourage your body to use the fat as energy instead of storing it or using it for“Wemuscle.both feel so much better and have a lot more energy. This is a program, but I don’t like calling it a program because it is a way of life for us. We love the way we look and the clothes we can wear again. Most im portantly, we are much healthier,” client Trula Reynolds said about the experience she and her husband, George, have had.Depending on how much weight you need to lose, the eight-week program can be re peated a couple of times to reach your goal. The program in cludes coaching, initial blood work, appetite suppressants to help with the lifestyle transition, lipotropic injections to help maintain energy and burn fat, a guidebook, keto strips to test whether your body is in a state of ketosis and weekly InBody weigh-in. For more information on this and other antiaging services and products ofered by New Vitality Centers, or to schedule a con sultation, please contact New Vitality at 813-436-0708 or https://newvitalitycen ters.com/.

Plus, it ofers a free on-site painting estimate, free pressure washing for your driveway and sidewalk, free color samples to choose from, free crack repairs in stucco and joints and even a free touchup kit after its team is done so you can paint over dennoAndblemishes.futurewithhidfees,apricematchguaranteeandwelltrained, experienced employees, choosing Don’s Painting is worry-free. “Probably do a couple thousand homes a year,” said Murray. “Usually pressure washing one day, come back the next day. With a house average of 2,000 or 3,000 sq. ft., even a little bigger, probably get it done the next day.”

DON’S BAY AREA PAINTING IS ONLY HAPPY WHEN YOU’RE HAPPY

Mon-ThursHours:9-5Friday 9-12 to that, Don’s Bay Area Painting is hard to beat.Owner and founder Don Murray has been in the paint ing business for over 30 years, providing services to both residents and businesses throughout Hillsborough Coun ty for over 20 of those years now, includ ing Valrico, Brandon, Riverview and much more. His business is trusted all around the county, including by David Weekley Homes and FishHawk Ranch by Newland Communities.“Ihavepersonally used Don’s Painting and have recommended him to friends and clients for over 27 years. Don and his crew are always professional, timely and they always make sure you are satisfied with the final results,” said Jef Chandler, broker and owner of River Hills Realty Inc. Its painters have all been trained to use the latest techniques and technology, and each is an employee and covered by workman’s compensation insurance — no subcontractors whatsoever. Its services include exterior and interior painting, pop corn removal, brush and spray applications as well as drywall patching and repairs.

whenwork.high-qualityriencesionalwithonbestofanewinyourWhenplaceisneedofacolororfreshcoatpaint,it’storelythoseprofesexpeandAnditcomes

By Taylor Wells Te exterior of a house freshly paint ed by Don’s Bay Area Painting.

A house kitchen freshly painted by Don’s Bay Area Painting.

Christopher Klein, president of BLFA, said, “This is an open show. This show highlights the very high quality of art we have in the Tampa Bay area. It is a good experience for any artist to enter and be mixed with high caliber artists. Even if you are not accepted, you are still happy to be a part of it.” Klein added, “The opening reception is open to the community. It is good for the public to see the art which includes wa tercolor, oil paintings, photography, mixed media, sculptures and more. They also get to meet the artists.” For more information, please visit www.blfa.us.

In addition to special events like Bluegrass Night, Krazy Kup ofers monthly events. On the second Friday of each month, it ofers Movie Trivia Night. On the third Friday, you can attend Retro Movie Night. On the fourth Friday, enjoy Bluegrass Night. On the first Saturday of each month, it has Bluegrass Jams, and on the second Saturday it ofers Open Mic Night. Frank said, “We do this for the love and joy that music brings to not only the audience but, just as importantly, to the musicians. They love to perform here, and they show it with engaging enthusiasm. We ofer live entertainment weekly from rock to faithbased music and everything in between. We have become a very popular venue for the bluegrass community. Our Bluegrass Jam night is free to jam and sit back and enjoy.” Krazy Kup is located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. in Plant City. For more informa tion, please visit www.krazykup.com. 251-2234 Dale Mabry

are $20 and can be purchased online

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Area artists are encouraged to enter art works in the Brandon League of Fine Arts upcoming art show known as Artworks 2022. Tis is a juried art show open to all artists who live and work in the area, regardless of whether they are members of BLFA.

A CALL TO ARTISTS IS ISSUED FOR ARTWORKS 2022

BLUEGRASS NIGHT AT KRAZY KUP FEATURING JACK LAWRENCE AND JON GARON Krazy Kup, a unique and fun cofee house lo cated in down town Plant City, is excited to an nounce that it will host a special Bluegrass Night event on Thurs day, October 6. This Bluegrass Night will feature Jack Law rence with Jon Garon. The event will take place from 7-8:30 p.m. in The Loft at Krazy Kup.Tickets at

Page 33Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022

audience and the bands are our best success.”The Trunzos started hosting events in The Loft in 2013. Frank said, “The Loft at Kra zy Kup ofers a unique opportuni ty to enjoy quality, award-winning bluegrass talents in one of the most intimate venues in the area. It is like being in the band up close and personal.”

The Brandon League of Fine Arts (BLFA) is hold ing its Artworks 2022 art show this September. The BLFA would like to invite local artists to enter new artworks in the show. The show will be held in the Mook Gallery at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon, from Thursday, September 1 to Tuesday, SeptemberInterested30.artists may submit new artworks to be juried. New artworks is defined as work that has been completed af ter September 2016 and not previously shown at Center Place or in a BLFA competition.Artworks should be brought to Center Place on September 1 between 9:30 a.m.12 Noon. A judge will jury each artwork. If accepted, the artwork is eligible for awards, which total over $1,000. Artists will be no tified by 3 p.m. if they are not accepted, and their artwork must be picked up by 5 p.m. that same day. This year’s judge is Alice Anderson, an award-winning artist. Artists may enter up to two pieces. Art can be 2D or 3D. Artists should review all rules regarding framing, size and hanging. The rules and entry form can be found at www.blfa.us.Theshow is open to all artists within the Tampa Bay area. The entry fee for non members is $35 for one entry and $50 for two. The entry fee for BLFA members is $25 for one entry and $40 for two. Mem bership in BLFA is $35Anannually.opening recep tion will be held on Thursday, Septem ber 15 from 5:30-7 p.m. at Center Place. Awards will be an nounced at that time.

emphasizeHessGrammyGaronrence’swithsarband,DocJackronFrankFrankthisKup.grass-tickets-391970754077rence-jon-garon-a-special-night-of-bluewww.eventbrite.com/e/jack-laworatKrazySpaceislimited,anditisexpectedthateventwillselloutfast.KrazyKupisownedandoperatedbyTrunzoandhiswife,WendaTrunzo.said,“JackLawrenceandJonGaaretwogreatsofthebluegrassworld.LawrencewasthemusicalpartnerofWatsonsincethe1980s.JonGaron’sComfortStation,wasjoinedbyVasClementquiteoften,andhealsodidtimetheJohnDenverBand.”Frankadded,“ThiswillbeJackLawfirstperformanceatKrazyKup;JonplayedTheLoftthispastMarchwithAwardwinnerClayandBrennanforasold-outcrowd.Wecannotoverhowtheconnectionbetween

Page 34 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8

By Sharon Still

New brides will be inspired by Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique owners Peter and Alison Farnan as the couple celebrates 35 years of marriage.

Te

Page 35Brandon/Winthrop EditionAugust 2022

SATIN & LACE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE OWNERS CELEBRATE 35 YEARS OF MARRIAGE

ferent services, in cluding whole house filtration systems, wa ter system repairs and more. Their services are available for residen tial and commercial properties in Hillsbor ough, Pasco, Polk, Pinellas, Manatee, Sara sota and Charlotte counties. The community has responded positively to this superhero rebranding. The H2O He roes has also wrapped their trucks in the superhero theme found all over the com munity.TheH2O Heroes at Water Filter Ware house also has a mobile showroom that it can set up in the neighborhood to provide free water testing and product informa tion.The H2O Heroes at Water Filter Ware house can be found at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico between the Walmart and Subway. For more information on The H2O Heroes and its product details, services, etc., visit www.theh2oheroes.com. Hooker H2O Heroes’ mobile showroom providing information about its services. Owner/FounderMosher

SUPERHERO THEME COMES TO THE H2O HEROES WATER FILTER WAREHOUSE By Arianna

Ofce: 813-448-7580 Website: www.southshoreins.com SERVICES RecreationalCommercialPersonalOFFERED:AutoVehiclesHomeFloodExcessFloodWorkCompGeneralLiabilityCommercialAutoRentalPropertiesAndMore!

Buying a wedding dress is at the top of the list of important days in a woman’s life. At Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique, guests are treated like royalty with pri vate appointments, a dedicated bridal consultant and a champagne toast when the bride says yes to the perfect dress.Satin & Lace Brid al Boutique owners Alison and Peter Farnan are a true testament to the institution of mar riage, as the couple is celebrating 35 years of marriage and looking to help other couples plan their important day. “Our mission from the start is to create an exceptional experience for brides as they look for that perfect dress for their wedding day,” said Peter, noting the com pany tag line: ‘The Experience Brides & GroomsSelectionsDeserve.’are available from main stream designers like Justin Alexander, as well as its own label, The London Collection. The Amelia Page Collection, named after the Farnans’ first grandchild, is due in August. Dresses range in price from“We$1,200-$2,500.areappointment only and that is so that each bride and her party can have a private appointment,” said Alison. She added that there are two large brid al suites, and that the bride is ofered a bridal walk experience to music of her choice. “We celebrate that ‘She said yes’ moment with a toast to com plete the experience,” saidWhilePeter.the spotlight is on the bride, Satin & Lace Bridal Bou tique recently teamed up with Jim’s Formal Wear, the largest pro vider of men’s formal wear in the country, to er its suits, tuxedos and accessories for rental or purchase. “There are so many exciting tique,happeningdevelopmentsatourboubutthemostex citing experience for us is always hearing a bride say yes to her perfect dress,” com mented Peter. When asked about making a marriage last, after 35 years together, Peter and Alison agreed that honesty and commu nication are necessities. “Be prepared to compromise and support each other to achieve not only your joint ambitions but also your individual dreams,” advised Pe ter.Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique is locat ed in Winthrop Town Centre at 11286 Sullivan St. in Riverview. Appointments are required. It is open on Monday and Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m.6:30 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-5 p.m. The shop is closed on Tuesday. Call 813-381-4110 or visit www.satinandlaceboutique.com to set an appointment or find out more.

The H2O Heroes at Water Filter Warehouse, a lo cal water filtration company, has re branded to a su perhero theme for its business. While water filtration is not something that is associated with being fun and exciting, with Dan the Water Man, it canDanbe. Kelleher, own er of The H2O Heroes at Water Filter Ware house, said, “We decided to brand ourselves The H2O Heroes because it’s fun and memorable. We have also trade marked ‘The H2O Heroes’ because we plan to get nationwide with our brand.”

Michelle

The H2O Heroes at Water Filter Ware house was founded in 2017 and has since made an enormous impact on the commu nity. Over the years, The H2O Heroes has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars in products to various charities; Flint, Mich igan residents; Hurricane Maria victims in Puerto Rico; and Hurricane Dorian victims in the “TheBahamas.H2OHeroes provide a bright light in a really dark, dishonest industry by provid ing quality products, fair pricing, transpar ency in all we do and outstanding customer service,” said Kelleher. The H2O Heroes at Water Filter Ware house strives to be the best in the industry by setting itself apart with its core values, excellence, integrity, innovation, communi ty and passion, which are at the heart of theFindingcompany.the right people in the water filtration industry can be dihouseWaterethicalitselfencytruthwithingservicevidingisFilterHeroesHowever,challenging.TheH2OatWaterWarehousededicatedtoprothebestofwhilekeepinaccordanceitsbeliefsofandtransparwhileconductinginthehighestmanner.TheH2OHeroesatFilterWareprovidesmany

Page 36 Brandon/Winthrop Edition Volume 17, Issue 8 V2922813-452-6380LithiaPinecrestRoad|Valrico,FL33596alricoOralSurgery.com

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