Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop August 2021

Brandon/Winthrop

17

August 2021

Volume 16, Issue 8

Ph: 657-2418

SEE $5 OFF $50 PAGE 18

CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS

THE WINTHROP POP UP MARKET RETURNS WITH NEW & FAMILIAR VENDORS THIRD SATURDAYS

By Makenzie Atkins

Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596

Russell and Kathseven days a week leen Rush with Osprey in case of emergenHeights Gracious Recy. Each of its floor tirement Living say plans including stutheir new communidio, one bedroom and ty is truly a place to two bedroom units is call home. At Osprey equipped with emerHeights, resigency pull cords dents will enjoy and monthly a comfortable, rent includes active, indepenmeals, transpordent lifestyle tation, events, along with activities and peace of mind. weekly houseRussell and keeping.

Kathleen Rush For more inwith Osprey formation or to Heights, have schedule a tour, over 10 years of Osprey Heights Gracious Retirement Living is almost ready call 813-295to open in Valrico. experience in se6887 or visit nior care. Russell explained their philoso- seniorlivinginstyle.com/osprey-heights. phy: “We believe a lot of people’s outcomes Osprey Heights Gracious Retirement Livhave to do with time spent with others. If ing is located at 2808 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. the pandemic taught us anything, it was in Valrico and is a part of Hawthorn Sethat it is not healthy to be by ourselves. nior Living Group with dozens of locations We are the antidote to the social isolation across the U.S. and Canada. crisis facing seniors today.”

Osprey Heights is designed with community in mind. There is over 40,000 square feet of indoor common areas, including a dining room seating 160 people, a dance floor, a digital movie theater, two gaming areas, a library, a salon, a gym and a chapel. Furthermore, there are living rooms scattered throughout where people can come together to meet. “We are facilitators for socialization,” Russell emphasized. At Osprey Heights, it wants people to enjoy life and be able to age in a place where they will spend time daily with others. A monthly calendar of activities from exercises to games to movies to outings offers something for everyone.

“We do the cooking, cleaning, shopping and fixing,” Russell added. “You’ll find we’re passionate about seniors having a good experience.” Osprey Heights includes three home-cooked meals daily with a variety of options designed with taste and nutrition in mind served to your table in the dining room. Many residents drive, but MEET THE INTERNS ........................... PG 4 Osprey Heights also offers transportation CHAMBER AWARDS.............................PG 7 to appointments, shopping areas and other fun outings. Management teams live EYE ON BUSINESS ................... PGS 21-22 on-site and are available 24 hours a day, SPORTS ...........................................................30

IN THIS ISSUE:

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PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397

Are you searching under the old oak tree for a way to get out in the Winthrop Town of the house and do Centre. Each month, something fun? The the market draws Winthrop Pop Up over 500 shoppers Market will be returnfrom all over Florida ing to Riverview in ready to support our September to contincommunity. ue giving the commuThe market focusnity an opportunity es on having unique, to support local busihandmade art, gifts nesses. and food. With over The Winthrop 60 venPop Up Market is an d o r s , open-air, communithere is ty-centered event The Winthrop Pop Up Market s o m e has over 60 vendors, each with founded by Katharine thing for something fun and unique.

Sullivan-Dawes that e v e r y allows local small shopper. businesses to come The marout and sell what ket features things they create. Starting like BBQ, jewelry, a small business can macaroons, home be challenging, so decor, juices, vintage the Winthrop Pop Up items and so much Market’s hope is to more. give those in the comThis experience is munity a platform to family and pet-friendgain support. ly, perfect for a weekThe market pops end outing not too far up every third Satfrom home. Not only urday of the month does the market offrom 9 a.m.-2 p.m. fer many vendors, but right on Bloomingthere is also an area dale Ave. next to Full with benches and Grown Girl, a plant swings for children to The Winthrop Pop Up Market sets up every third Saturday of the month to and home decor shop run around and play. in the Winthrop Town give a platform to small businesses in the Through the hot community.

Centre. The first marsummer months, the ket of the new season will be on Saturday, Winthrop Pop Up Market took a short September 18. break, but is excited to start back up and “We can’t wait for the market to start continue giving the community a chance to back up,” said Cynthia Atkins, owner of come together.

Full Grown Girl. “We get to meet so many For more information on the markets or amazing people who love to support the to apply as a vendor, please contact Makcommunity by shopping from small busi- enzie Atkins at winthroppopupmarkt@ nesses.” gmail.com or visit https://www.winthropLocal makers are excited to set back up popupmarket.com.

NEW OSPREY HEIGHTS OFFERS GRACIOUS RETIREMENT LIVING

By Amy Schechter

The County Fair will return to Hillsborough County. Starting September 23rd, residents will be able to attend the annual Hillsborough County Fair. The event will last 8 days from September 23-October 3..

For more information on how to enter events and purchase tickets, go to https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/. See full story Page 18.

813-689-8131 3159 E. State Road 60 - Valrico

Page 2

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 8

August 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

NEW PRINCIPAL NAMED AT KINGSWOOD ELEMENTARY

By Michelle Caceres

School Superintendent said.

Addison Davis has anSheffield is a highly skilled nounced last month that communicator who is pasCarmen Sheffield has sionate about building a been selected as the new school culture that encourprincipal at Kingswood ages continuous improveElementary School. She ments for teachers, students is replacing Lisa Amos. and the community. She’s Sheffield brings more also experienced in meeting than 18 years of experithe needs of underserved ence as an elementary students while creating a teacher and educational safe, supportive and challeader to Kingswood. lenging learning environIn 2004, she served as ment. a kindergarten teacher She officially began her Carmen Sheffield has been named at Riverhills Elementary new role as principal on July Magnet School in Temple principal at Kingswood Elementary 1.

School.

Terrace before being proDuring her first day, Amos moted to assistant principal at Mort Elemen- walked her around the school and shared a bit tary in Tampa. She was also assistant prin- of its rich history. The ‘circle’ school, whose cipal at Lincoln Elementary Magnet School campus is shaped in a circle with the media in Plant City and assistant principal at Kenly center in the center, celebrated its 50th anElementary School in Tampa. niversary in 2018. A beautiful garden fills the Sheffield attended Florida Agricultural and school’s central courtyard. Sixty staff memMechanical University (FAMU) and earned a bers serve the school’s population of 450 stubachelor’s degree in elementary education. dents.

She also earned a master’s degree in educa“Many of the school’s teachers are dedicattional leadership at Nova Southeastern Uni- ed to this school and have worked here for versity. years,” said Sheffield. “Our new media specialThis is her first time in the role of principal. ist attended this school as a student.”

“I am beyond excited to be named the new Sheffield has one son, Jayden, who graduprincipal of Kingswood Elementary School ated from Strawberry Crest High School and and am excited to work alongside the school’s is currently attending FAMU. dedicated teachers, parents and staff,” said In her free time, she enjoys spending time Sheffield. with her family, going to the movies and garBorn and raised in a military family, she had dening. the opportunity to travel and attend schools in “I can’t wait for the school year to begin several states and even other countries. This and get to work ensuring that all students experience taught her to embrace cultural dif- succeed,” she said. ferences and backgrounds.

For more information about Kingswood El“I knew I would be a good fit at Kingswood ementary visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/ because of its diverse student population,” she kingswood or call 744-8234.

Page 3

BRANDON REGIONAL HOSPITAL OFFERS SPECIALIZED CARE IN CHILDREN’S EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Staff Report

The Chilrience during dren’s Emertheir three years gency Deof training. Most partment at Adult Emergency Brandon ReDepartments are gional Hospital focused on paoffers specialtients 18 years of ized care to age and over and children of all often lack speages.

Locatcialized medicines ed next to the and treatments main Emergenfor children. cy Department Urgent care faat 119 Oakfield cilities can treat Dr. in Brandon, most minor illthe Children’s The Children’s Emergency Department at Brandon Regional nesses and injuHospital offers specialized care to children of all ages.

Emergency Deries. However, partment features 16 all-private treatment most are primarily adult-focused and often rooms and provides care for acute, chronic do not have a lot of expertise with children. and unexpected needs.

If you have a concern about your child’s The Children’s Emergency Department minor illness or injury, you should first conis staffed by specially trained pediatric tact your child’s primary care physician for emergency physicians. In addition to three guidance. If your child has a more serious years of general pediatrics training, pediat- illness or injury—such as vomiting and diarric emergency physicians have an addition- rhea, an asthma attack, broken bones, burns, al three years of training in a specialized bicycle accident, lacerations, seizure or othChildren’s Emergency Department. This er more concerning illness or injury—a visit provides the needed skills and experience to the Children’s Emergency Department at to treat everything minor to major. In ad- Brandon Regional Hospital is recommended. dition, the nursing staff is specialized and Accredited by The Joint Commission, specifically trained in children’s emergency Brandon Regional Hospital is a 436-bed care. The Children’s Emergency Department acute care facility that is nationally ranked at Brandon Regional Hospital is completely as a Top 100 Hospital by IBM Watson, a Top separate from the Adult Emergency Depart- Teaching Hospital by The Leapfrog Group, a ment and is exclusively focused on making a U.S. News & World Report High Performing visit as comforting as possible for both chil- Hospital in COPD and Heart Failure and a dren and parents.

Leapfrog Group ‘A’ for patient safety.

Traditional Emergency Departments are For more about children’s emergency care staffed by adult trained emergency phy- at Brandon Regional Hospital, visit https:// sicians. These physicians usually have less brandonhospital.com/specialties/pediatthan four to six months of pediatric expe- ric-emergency-care or call 681-5551.

CAC1820162

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 8

MEET THE 2021 OSPREY OBSERVER NEWS REPORTER INTERN TEAM

By Debra Garcia

Every summer, the Osprey Observer ofand major in political science and English. fers internships to local high school and Thinking about her interest in journalism, college students into its office to learn Pedraza became an intern to pursue a newspaper industry works and gain expossibility in her future. “I wanted to feel perience as a news reporter. Due to what it was like and learn more about the COVID-19, for the second time in a row, field. Luckily, I still love it,” said Pedraza. the Osprey Observer offered these internMeghan Reyes - Newsome High School ships virtually and welcomed eight new Reyes is a junior at Newsome High members to the team. This summer, the School and according to her plan, she Osprey Observer welcomed Makenzie Atwill go to the University of Tampa after kins, Annabelle Caraway, Pauline Derry, high school, major in journalism and miDebra Garcia, Laura Marzullo, Ariana Penor in education. She, too, wanted to join draza, Meghan Reyes the Osprey Observer and Anika Shah. to gain experience Makenzie Atkins in the journalism The Osprey Observer 2021 interns completed many published stories University of South field, as she has this summer. From left to right: Marie Gilmore, Annabelle Caraway, Florida only worked for her Anika Shah, Meghan Reyes, Debra Garcia, Laura Marzullo and Atkins is a senior school newspaper in Ariana Pedraza. at the University the past. “I plan on Pauline Derry - Suffolk Osprey Observer to gain of South Florida being a journalist full University experience and knowledge majoring in public time after college; Derry is a virtual soph- on the journalism world. relations and adverthis internship was omore at Suffolk Universi- “I knew this opportunity tising. Before internthe first stepping ty in Boston and hopes to was a perfect way gain ing at the Osprey stone into my career major in psychology and the proper skills I needed Observer, she has bath,” said Reyes. minor in either criminal to pursue my career,” said always loved readAnika Shah justice or political science. Garcia. ing and writing but Newsome High In order to investigate her Laura Marzullo - Dunever got a chance School Pauline Derry Makenzie Atkins interest in the journalism rant High School to written anything Shah is a senior at Marzullo is a senior at Durant High Newsome High School and plans to double people could read. That is why she want- field, Derry thought an internship at the ed to intern at the Osprey Observer. “Get- local newspaper was a great thing to do School and one day wishes to major in major in either computer science or engiting experience writing real stories about this summer. “I thought an internship at journalism and minor in writing when she neering and business. She had always had amazing people was something I really the Osprey Observer was a perfect way to goes off to college. Inspired to become an a love for the power of communication dip my toes into the world of journalism,” intern by one of last summer’s interns, Lily and how information could change somewanted,” said Atkins.

Belcher, Marzullo wanted to enhance her one’s opinion on a subject. So, she wanted Annabelle Caraway - Riverview High said Derry.

Debra Garcia - Newsome High School journalistic writing skills and follow in her to use an internship at the Osprey ObservSchool Garcia is a senior at Newsome High friend’s footsteps. “She is a friend of mine er as an opportunity to explore that. “The Caraway is a junior at Riverview High School who hopes to one day to major in School who is determined to go to the and is a bright young woman. Therefore, internship has really opened my eyes to so journalism when she goes off to college. University of Florida and major in jour- I knew I would be able to shine the same many things going on in the community Caraway wanted to seek an internship at nalism. Since she was a kid, Garcia knew way she did,” said Marzullo. that I didn’t know about previously. I am Ariana Pedraza - Newsome High really glad that I got to learn and shine a the Osprey Observer as a way to gain ex- she wanted to pursue journalism and did perience and exposure to the field. “I have everything she could to make that happen. School light on important issues,” said Shah.

Pedraza is a sophomore at Newsome loved every minute of this internship and She took classes at school and worked at To learn more about the Osprey Observam so grateful for the opportunity,” said her high school newspaper. So naturally, High School who, once she graduates, er internship program, email kquesada@ she wanted to take up an internship at the wants to attend the University of Florida ospreyobserver.com.

Caraway.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

August 2021

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Page 5

TAMPA BAY WATER WANTS PUBLIC INPUT FOR NEW PROJECT

By Brad Stager Each day, Tampa The project’s Bay Water provides goal is to increase drinking water to capacity of the more than 2.5 milregion’s aquifer to lion customers in the support demand Tampa Bay area. The by reducing saltregion’s growing popwater intrusion ulation is creating a into it. need for the utility This increase of to plan for a chang- Tampa Bay Water provides drinking water to more capacity in distribing future, in which than 2.5 million regional customers each day and is utable water would planning for future growth. it said at least an be achieved by conadditional 10 million structing a series gallons of water a day will be of recharge wells that inject reneeded by 2028 to support anclaimed water underground that ticipated growth. can serve as a barrier between In order to ensure water the encroaching saltwater from needs can be met, Tampa Bay the west and the aquifer’s fresh Water is requesting public inwater supply inland. put on a proposed project that is intended The injection sites would be along Southto help maintain a reliable water supply, ern Hillsborough County’s coastline, in especially in Southern Hillsborough County, brackish areas of the aquifer. where a large amount of development is ocWater treatment facilities will be built on curring.

Hillsborough County-owned land near the According to Brandon Moore, public com- intersection of Balm and Balm Riverview munications manager of Tampa Bay Water, Rds. involving the public is an essential part of The volume of freshwater available for the work the utility performs. Residents can distribution to customers will increase and learn details about the project by visiting no reclaimed water will intrude into the Tampa Bay Water’s website and reviewing wellfield according to Tampa Bay Water, the information presented there, including which said the project will increase water a video. Feedback about the project can be distribution capacity by 7.5 million gallons provided via an online survey. per day, and possibly even more.

“Your voice counts,” said Moore. “The There will also be a virtual public meeting 15 minutes you spend watching the vid- on the project hosted by Tampa Bay Water eo and answering the survey provides us on Tuesday, August 24 beginning at 6:30 valuable feedback we can share with the p.m. The meeting requires preregistration project team and will inform our board as at tampabaywater.org, where you can also they make their decisions on the next water review the video and other project materiprojects.” als as well as provide feedback.

Cammie Yick

Melody Gershkoff

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mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com

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Page 6

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 8

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CONTINUES RESPONSE TO COVID-19

By Taylor Wells

Since the start of last year, the world has according to the CDC, Florida’s total numbeen taking many measures to ensure ev- ber of cases was 2,406,794, the number eryone’s safety against COVID-19 and de- of fully vaccinated people was 10,240,997 velop ways to prevent, treat and cure it. As (47.7 percent of the population) and the more people are being vaccinated against highest seven-day moving average of casCOVID-19, cases continue to decrease es was 17,568 on the week of January 2-8. and demand for testing and vaccination In Hillsborough, as of July 16, the total declines and more private providers offer number of cases was 150,433 the numservices, Hillsborough County’s response ber of people vaccinated was 700,729 (54 to the virus is winding down. Because of percent of the population ages 12 and up) that, government departments like the and the highest seven-day moving average Florida Division of Emergency Manage- of cases was 6,398 on the week of Janument and Florida Department of Health decided to cease daily reports for Florida counties on June 3.

“Florida has transitioned into the next phase of the COVID-19 re- Hillsborough County’s seven-day total, rate, percentage and percent change sponse.

Infections in the last seven days, from January 1 to July 15. (Photo courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.) and disease control is a core function of the Florida Depart- ary 2-8. ment of Health, and we continue to surveil, Though the weekly and daily case numadapt and respond to COVID-19 to protect bers have gone down drastically and more public health statewide,” stated Weesam people are being vaccinated, as we all conKhoury, communications director at Flor- tinue to deal with the virus, residents and ida Department of Health. “Florida’s case visitors of Hillsborough are still encourpositivity has been below 5 percent for a aged to follow the CDC’s COVID-19 guidemonth, and has continued to decrease over lines and be mindful of the virus.

10 weeks. Almost 85 percent of Florida’s To view weekly data reports for seniors vaccinated. Nearly 90 percent of COVID-19 (updated each Friday), find vacthe population is eligible for the vaccine, cination or testing sites or get any othwhich is widely available statewide.” er information related to the virus, visit In Florida, one of the first two COVID-19 https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/. More cases was reported in Hillsborough County information is also available at hcflgov. on March 1, 2020, which is when COVID-19 net/staysafe and https://covid.cdc.gov/ data began being reported. As of July 18, covid-data-tracker/.

Expiration 09/01/2021

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August 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 7

MEMBERS OF THE GREATER BRANDON BRANDON AREA GENEALOGICAL AND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RECOGNIZED HISTORICAL SOCIETY HELPS OTHERS AT ANNUAL CHAMBER MEMBER AWARDS LEARN THEIR FAMILY HISTORY

By Kathy L. Collins

By Tatiana Ortiz

The Greater Branis HiTech Automodon Chamber of tive. Brandon ReCommerce held its gional Hospital won annual Chamber the award for the Member Awards at business with 21 and The Regent on July more employees. The 29. The event is a nonprofit award was way to recognize given to ECHO. businesses and local The nominees and nonprofits in differultimate winners ent categories for undergo a rigorous their accomplishvetting process conThe Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce ments.

Individual ducted by members celebrated the winners of various awards at its awards are also givof SCORE, a nonprofChamber Member Awards. All of the winners en to members of the had at least one thing in common—service and it organization comcommitment to the Greater Brandon area. community for their posed of a network Photos courtesy of Dominic Ray of Warped Vision. of volunteer, expert dedication and service to the Greater business mentors.

Brandon area.

SCORE takes information Brittany Tribou, presisubmitted by the busident and CEO of the Greatnesses and conducts iner Brandon Chamber of terviews and site visits.

Commerce, said, “We are The nonprofit nominees lucky to have amazing undergo the same process. businesses in our Brandon The whole process takes community that not only approximately six weeks. provide unique goods and Winners receive a troservices but continue to phy, are recognized on give back and positively imFacebook and can share pact our area. Our winners this year demon- their achievement with their customers, clistrate that commitment to excellence and ents and the community. community, and it was an honor to be able In addition to the above five winners, two to celebrate them at our Chamber Member individuals received recognition for their Awards.” leadership. The first, the Leadership BranThe five business categories and the win- don Impact Award, was given to Lynette ners are as follows: Barcewicz of Rasmussen University. The Emerging Business was given to Caribbe- second award was given to Chuck Burgess an Mystique Spa. For the business with one of High 5, Inc. (formerly known as BSAC). to five employees, the award was given to To learn more about the Greater Brandon CNA Training & Testing Center. The award Chamber of Commerce, please visit www. for the business with six to 20 employees brandonchamber.com.

in Valrico. The society also partnered with the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative.

Those who attend the meetings will get to hear from a guest speaker about genealogy or a topic connected to family history. The meetings do not cost anything to attend, but for those wanting to become an annual member, the cost would be $15. These membership fees help go towards the funding From left to right: Members of the Brandon Area Genealogical of programs that the guest and Historical Society Georgene Bender, President Rue Lynn Galbraith and Joan Glass at the Bloomingdale Regional Public speakers utilize.

In January of this year, Library getting prepared for their upcoming meeting.

Rue Lynn Galbraith became Individuals interested in learning the new president of the society. As Galabout their family history or genealogy braith continues to thrive in his role, he can join the Brandon Area Genealogical is developing goals that he looks forward and Historical Society, which became es- to accomplishing. tablished in 1995. A Brandon couple by “My ultimate goal once we start meetthe names of Tom Smith and Jean Smith ing again at the Bloomingdale Regional had formed it as they had been doing ge- Public Library would be to grow particnealogy for more than 20 years. At that ipation in this society and to help gain time, it was called the Greater Brandon better understanding of family history,” Genealogical Society. It came into fru- Galbraith said. ition due to the fact that the Smiths’ Beginning in the fall during the second wanted to share their knowledge and in- Tuesday of the month at 2 p.m. and the terest of genealogy among those within last Saturday of the month at 10 a.m., their local community. In 2003, the name another topic called ‘Ask a Genealogist’ of this society changed to the Brandon will occur at the Bloomingdale Regional Area Genealogical and Historical Society. Public Library.

Currently, the Brandon Area Genealog“We are grateful for the partnership ical and Historical Society meets every with the Hillsborough County Public Lisecond Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. brary Cooperative,” Galbraith said. through Zoom. Prior to the pandemFor more information, visit http:// ic, the society held its meetings at the sites.rootsweb.com/~flbaghs/ or email Bloomingdale Regional Public Library Galbraith at ruelynn.gen@gmail.com.

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Page 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 8

CITIZEN CORPS COUNCIL SEEKS VOLUNTEERS TO MAKE DIFFERENCE

By Michelle Caceres

MIRACLES OUTREACH HELPS CHILDREN IN NEEDBy Libby Hopkins

The council coordinates placement and training for individuals in nationally recognized programs, such as the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS), Fire Corps, Medical Reserve Corps, USAonWatch (a national neighborhood watch program) and America’s Waterway Watch.

Hillsborough County residents of all backgrounds, regardless of skills or medical training, are encouraged to volunteer.

The Hillsborough County CERT is seeking volunteers to join the team and will be trained in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization and disaster medical operations. Trained volunteers can then assist others following an event and can take an active role in preparing the community.

“Volunteers are trained to be the help until the help arrives,” said council director Anita Reino. Other popular volunteer group are Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) and Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), which provide backup and auxiliary communications during times of emergency when traditional communications systems fail or become overloaded. Classes are being offered for those interested in refreshing their skills or for newly licensed ham operators.

“All these programs are supplements to public resources and first responders that are already available,” said Aderhold. “They empower citizens so they can take action to protect their homes and neighborhoods.”

For more, visit www.citizencorpscouncilhc.com or visit its Facebook page at Citizen Corps Council of Hillsborough County. To learn more about volunteering, call Reino at 298-3349.

Miracles Outreach has Bell became involved with provided foster care and the nonprofit because she beother services to more lieves in their mission, which than 3,000 youth and famis to restore the communiilies in Florida since 2000. ty by empowering program The group focuses on chilparticipants and/or residents dren ages 12 through 18 to become self-sufficient, who are homeless, have economically, emotionally, been abused or were vicmentally and physically. “Our tims of human trafficking. purpose is to provide safe, seThe main campus for Mircure, nurturing environments acles Outreach is located for the educational and emoin Thonotosassa, but it has tional development for atseveral loving homes localrisk youth, reducing the risk ly with one in Brandon.

Miracles Outreach has provid- factors that lead to juvenile The nonprofit provides a delinquency,” Bell said. ed foster care and other sercaring, nurturing and safe vices to more than 3,000 youth Miracles Outreach in Branhome to children that come and families in Florida since don houses older children.

2000. It focuses on children to them from child welfare “This home is designated ages 12 through 18 who are agencies throughout Florfor the extended foster care homeless, have been abused ida and often arrive seyouth ages 18-24 who just or were victims of human verely troubled because of need a little more guidance trafficking. the situations that caused with continuing their educathem to enter foster care. tion and/or employment opThey also help families in portunities with a shelter over the Tampa Bay area become their head,” Bell said. stronger through their proThe Brandon community can grams like financial literacy, help Miracles Outreach through parental support classes, volunteering. “Volunteers are educational development essential, along with the supand more. port of civic and church groups,” Bell said.

“Many people don’t realize how many “I tell everyone that our home is similar to children are in the foster care system or your home. Everything you need for your how huge human trafficking is in our com- family we need for our family. Our hope munity, in our county or even in our state,” is that we can help as many teen girls said Pam Bell of Miracles Outreach. “They regain their self-confidence and set realthink the commercials on TV are about the istic goals for their lives. We want them hungry and lost children who are only in to know and feel love while they get an other countries, but they are in our back- education, learn a trade and become the yards. If everyone could help agencies best person they can be.” such as Miracles Outreach in one small If you would like to learn more about way, it would make a huge difference in Miracles Outreach or if you’d like to docaring for these innocent children.” nate to it, visit www.miraclesoutreach.org.

Hillsborough County residents are invited to volunteer for one of the many nationally recognized programs that help keep our homes and communities safe.

Coordinated volunteer networks help strengthen the ability to prevent, respond to and recover from emergencies and disasters in communities. The Citizen Corps Council of Hillsborough County, a nonprofit organization formed by residents, is planning to significantly expand its volunteer base and is currently recruiting and training to meet this critical goal.

“Residents can serve their community during this very critical time,” said Citizen Corps Council President Tom Aderhold. “Enthused and motivated volunteers are integral to fulfilling our commitment to serve our community in times of need and we are an integral part in making citizens aware about these opportunities.”

The council partners with law enforcement, fire and medical personnel, emergency management services, volunteer organizations, local officials, business and school district leaders and the community at large to meet its goals to prevent, prepare for and respond to crime, disaster, public health needs and emergencies of all kinds.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

August 2021

GFWC BRANDON JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB PLANS BOWLING FOR A CAUSE

By Ariana Pedraza The GFWC that enjoy helping Brandon Junior others. I’ve been in Woman’s Club has the club for over 10 been positively years, and we supcontributing to port a lot of differour community ent nonprofits and since 1955, when small businesses in it aided in buildthe community.” ing the cabinets Throughout the for the Brandon summer, the club Civic Center. Now, has adopted a ‘Wild 66 years later, it Things’ theme for is still doing evtheir events and erything it can to Members of the GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club fundraisers includholding blankets with Project Linus Tampa Bay. help causes in our ing Wild Things vircommunity. tual bingo, bunco In recent and the upcoming years, it has bowling event on donated art Sunday, August 29. supplies and inThe event will take struments to place from 2-4 p.m. schools, made at Brandon Crossteacher appreciroads Bowl. Funds ation care packwill go towards the ages, put on fun GFWC Brandon Judays in adult nior Woman’s Club’s group homes and mission to particithrown annual pate in and organize Christmas parother service events ties for students in our community. at a local school. Patrons using the GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s The event is open to Club’s Little Free Library.

At these parties, anyone who would the students received shoes, clothing and like to attend. toys. The club also sponsors a dog kennel Kathy Mammenga, also a chair of finance through the local kennel club and in the for the club, said, “We just want people to height of the pandemic it made over 1,500 come out and join us and have a fun time masks, which were put in care packages while raising money for the community.” with cards and snacks for first responders The entrance fee is $12 per bowler, and a local pediatric ER unit. In the past, which includes two hours of bowling, it has also provided scholarship to high snacks, shoes and drinks. You can also school seniors. sponsor areas of the event for $50. For Jeanette Kjosa, a chair of finance for the more information on the event and how club, explained, “We are a group of ladies you can help, visit gfwcbrandonjuniors.org.

Page 9

AMERICAN LEGION RIVERVIEW CONTINUES 9/11 TRADITION AT HACKNEY CEMETERY

By Ariana Pedraza

The American Legion Family Post 148 in Riverview hosts an annual community cleanup and flag replacement event at Hackney Cemetery. This year, the event will be on Saturday, September 11 from 9-11 a.m. The whole community is invited to participate.

Hackney Cemetery in Riverview is where many members of the American Legion are buried, dating back to the 1850s. The American Legion has been responsible for maintaining the graveyard since it started.

Sons of the American Legion First Vice Commander Steven Arndt has been a primary caretaker of the graveyard for seven years. Arndt, a veteran of the Air Force and National Guard, said, “I love it. It’s my obligation not only to veterans but to the community.” Arndt was mentored by the founder of the Hackney Cemetery caretaking community, Florence Sikes. Sikes passed away last year.

Last year, approximately 120 community residents attended the event.

Speaking on the experience, Arndt explained, “The folks you see showing up are really involved. … It’s been a thrill [and] an adventure every time. … I love to see how many new people come. …

I give a brief history of the graveyard [and] show them things and tell them about it.”

Last year, 120 volunteers came to the cleanup.

One of Arndt’s favorite parts is teaching kids about the history of the graveyard and helping them to replace flags. “The kids are so respectful. … they take it with pride, … its some great stuff,” he said.

In addition to the 9/11 cleanup, there are also quarterly cleanups where other groups get involved. Arndt expounded, “We have been having the high school historical society, archaeology department, ROTC [and] Navy Cadets come out. Next month, I am doing a separate one with the Navy Chief ’s Club.”

The event is funded by donations and support from the community. People are encouraged to bring rakes, brooms, battery-operated weed whackers and blowers if they can. Refreshments and snacks will also be available. This year, the American Legion will be replacing about 140 flags at the graveyard.

For more information, visit @HackneyCemetery on Facebook.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

PASS-A-BOOK AND HELP CREATE MEMORIES FOR CHILDREN

By Annabelle Caraway

Local children excited to pick out new books.

Literature is an important part of childhood and helps shape who people become. Reading has numerous benefits for children, including increased knowledge, appreciation and a sense of imagination. With the right book, a child’s world can be turned upside down. Heather Hindman, a past elementary school English teacher, had this in mind when creating Pass-A-Book, a community program that collects and donates children’s books.

“Seven years ago, my husband and I both left our positions to start a new company—and a new adventure. I couldn’t part with my books however, and I wound up with a garage full of books. I realized that, although they were near and dear to my heart, putting them into the hands of children would be a much better place than my garage. As I began talking to people, I found out that there were many families with children who had ‘outgrown’

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their books and were happy to clean out their closets. Donations started pouring in and teachers, schools and children’s groups started requesting them,” Hindman said.

Growing this program has been her passion the past few years and is forever grateful to the community’s support, without it, this program wouldn’t be around.

With COVID-19, its office is close; however, people can arrange for picking up the books at a house or another meeting place.

Both Hindman and her husband individually sort each book and people can submit requests for books by genre, grade level, etc. What might seem insignificant to some people can become a child’s light.

“I am a firm believer that reading is critical not only to children’s academic success but for their general well-being. I have found that for some children struggling with difficult situations at home, reading is a welcome retreat. Those are also the children least likely to have books at home,” Hindman said.

In the future, Hindman hopes to grow Pass-A-Book by reaching more foster programs and church organizations. Also, she hopes to create Pass-A-Book Gold, which will provide books for senior citizens.

To donate, people can email Hindman at heather@bryanhindmanelectric.com.

Volume 16, Issue 8

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August 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

FLORIDA 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM TO HOLD OPEN HOUSE

By Meghan Reyes

4-H began as an effort by educators to provide youth opportunities to learn about nature as a foundation for agricultural education.

On Saturday, August 28, the Hillsborough County 4-H program is holding its annual open house. 4-H is a program dedicated to extending agricultural education in rural communities.

“4-H stands for ‘Head, Heart, Hands & Health,’” Charlie Poliseno, Hillsborough County 4-H agent, said. “These tenets are further expanded upon in our 4-H Pledge: ‘I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service and my health to better living. For my club, my community, my country and my world.’”

4-H began as an effort by educators to provide youth opportunities to learn about nature as a foundation for agricultural education. As clubs began around 1904, 4-H became an official part of the Cooperative Extension Service in 1914. States organized clubs outside the schools with rural parents acting as volunteer leaders and County Extension agents provided materials.

“If you have youth, ages 5-18, who are interested in meeting new friends, learning new skills and having a great time while do-

(Pick up and Delivery Only)

ing so, please reach out to us or attend our open house event to find a club that fits your family’s interests,” Poliseno said.

There are many ways to support the Hillsborough County 4-H program. The best way to support the program is by volunteering and membership. Adults have the opportunity to teach children involved with the program about agriculture. Many 4-H students attend a wide variety of competitions and educational events, both across the state and around the country, and they occasionally need financial support to realize these once-in-alifetime opportunities.

Money donated to the 4-H program can help fund these trips.

“Our 4-H open house will be a great event for the public to get to see what our 4-H clubs do throughout the year and meet some of the amazing people who make our organization so great,” Poliseno said.

During the open house, various clubs from across the county will be in attendance to display the projects that they’ve been working on and the activities that their youth members get to participate in. Volunteer leaders will be available to answer questions about their clubs and lead some hands-on activities. 4-H staff will be on hand to answer any questions and provide information on how to get involved with Hillsborough County 4-H. No sign-up or preregistration is necessary for the 4-H open house. Anyone interested in attending this year’s open house is free to stop by. For more information, refer to the 4-H open house flyer or contact the Hillsborough County 4-H office at 744-5519.

Page 11

HILLSBOROUGH EDUCATION FOUNDATION ANNUAL LUNCHEON EMERGING STRONGER

By Meghan Reyes Join Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF) for its annual luncheon on Wednesday, September 15. EmpowerED is Hillsborough Education Foundation’s annual luncheon, presented by Suncoast Credit Union.

This annual fundraising event is held in September to raise support for HEF’s Hillsborough Education Foundation CEO Kim Jowell with Mix 100.7 host Laura Diaz during last year’s EmpowerED event. mission and raise year’s event, including Mayor of Tampa awareness about issues impacting public schools and the en- Bay Jane Castor, Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Addison tire community.

“Together with our community partners, Davis and HEF CEO Kim Jowell. During the HEF strategically invests in initiatives hybrid event, guests and speakers will enthat impact teaching quality and increase gage in conversations about how the past graduation rates, bolstering a thriving year has affected Hillsborough County and workforce of tomorrow and the sustain- how the schools have emerged stronger.

“If someone in the community would able prosperity of Tampa Bay,” Michael McCollum, Hillsborough Education Foun- like to support HEF and our mission, the greatest gifts a person can give are the dation chief advancement officer, said.

Since its founding in 1987, Hillsborough gift of education and the gift of time,” Education Foundation has been a nonprof- Oestreich said.

There are a variety of different ways one it dedicated to building public education in Hillsborough County through advocacy can help support the Hillsborough Educaand programs that empower every stu- tion Foundation. Volunteers are encourdent to achieve academic and personal aged to mentor students and attend sponsuccess. The organization raises an aver- sorship events. Other ways to support age of $7 million yearly to support teach- HEF are donating school supplies, funding ers and students in high-risk schools in scholarships and volunteering your time.

“HEF’s mission is to raise awareness Hillsborough County.

“The focus of this year’s event is Emerg- about issues impacting our public schools ing Stronger: Delivering Education for Any and the entire community,” McCollum said.

Registration is now open for this year’s Circumstance,” McCollum said.

The luncheon will be held both in per- event at educationfoundation.com/emson at Armature Works and streamed powered2021. Individual tickets range virtually through a broadcast. A plethora from $25-55. Sponsorship opportunities of speakers are lined up to speak at this are also available.

Page 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 8

TAMPA’S BASS PRO SHOPS HELPS ADOPT A HILLSBOROUGH GIVE AREA TEEN HIS DREAM TEACHER PAIRS NEEDS WITH COME TRUE BOAT AFTER CHEMO GENEROUS COMMUNITY

By Makenzie Atkins

By Anika Shah Adopt a Hillsborsupplies under their ough Teacher is a school thread and Facebook group that residents buy them. helps teachers fulfill The Amazon pages their school supply update in real time so wish lists for the community members year. It all started will know what has last year when foralready been bought mer teachers Brooke and what is still needElkins and Lorra ed.

Gillman noticed the Starting since July success of the Adopt 17, threads are live, a Senior Facebook with all of the elepage, which allowed mentary, middle, high residents to connect and charter schools School supplies received through Adopt a with and buy care being posted in the Hillsborough Teacher. packages for high days following. They school seniors who will stay online for the didn’t have a graduation. duration of the school Elkins got to thinking year. that the same could be With over 250 schools done for teachers, “who, in the district, the 100 especially during COVID, dollars in flex spending were needing support in that teachers receive is the classroom more than often not enough. Instead, ever,” she said. “teachers are pouring What started as a hundreds and hundreds of whim stayed up for the dollars of personal money entire school year and into their classrooms evblossomed into a thriving community of ery year.” over 13,000 members. It touched nearly For Elkins, “The more help we are giving every school in Hillsborough, which is quite our teachers, the better it is for them, and a feat considering it is the 27th biggest ultimately it’s better for the kids,” she said. county in the United States. The growing While some teachers’ whole lists have been popularity of the page influenced Pasco and cleared, others, especially Title 1 schools, Pinellas Counties to start one. struggle with getting enough supplies.

Originally a hub of posts by teachers, El- On how people can help, Elkins said, “Join, kins has streamlined the page to be orga- adopt and share the page.” nized alphabetically into threads of schools.

For more information and to support, visit Educators post their Amazon Wish List of ‘Adopt a Hillsborough Teacher’ on Facebook.

source a local corporate sponsor to fund the wish. For Voras, that local sponsor was City Electric Supply.

City Electric Supply hosted a fishing tournament to raise the funds for the new Tracker boat. Once it raised the money, it reached out to Bass Pro Shops with the details Voras had given it and Bass Pro Shops worked to find the perfect boat.

“It is pretty hard to find a boat right Victor Voras’ brand-new Bass Tracker Classic now, so it took a couple months until we were able to find the perfect boat,” said XL, which he named ‘Chemosabi’ after his Bass Pro Shops General Manager Jarron journey to regain his health.

Ritchie, “but it was definitely worth it.”

Can you imagine being told you have to Not only was Voras presented with a boat, stop doing the one thing you really love? A he also was given a lot of fishing essentials. teen from Port Richey, Victor Voras, was Lowrance Marine and Fishing Electronics forced to quit fishing when he was diagnosed donated the boat’s fish finder, Power-Pole with cancer, and now that he has completdonated a spike anchor and Bass Pro Shops ed treatment, fishing is the only thing on loaded up the boat with fishing apparel, coolhis mind. The Bass Pro Shops in Tampa and ers and boat safety accessories. Bass Pro the local City Electric Supply reps made this Shops also gave Voras a $200 gift card to teenager’s wish come true last Saturday, shop with at the store along with a pair of July 24 by presenting him with a brand-new brand-new premium sunglasses from Bass Bass Tracker boat.

Pro Shops’ Sunglasses Outfitters.

Voras has had a passion for fishing since Being that he has just completed the he was 7 years old. When he was diagnosed treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Voras is with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, he thought his so excited to not only be able to go fishing fishing days were over. That was until he again but to be able to go out on his very learned he was going to be granted a wish own boat, which he named ‘Chemosabi’ as a through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Votribute to all he has been through. “All I will ras said that when he heard about Make-Abe able to think about until I get to try out Wish, the only thing on his mind was a red this boat is trying out this boat,” said Voras. and black Tracker boat.

Voras has been dreaming about fishing Make-A-Wish is an organization that since the day he was told he had to stop. works with children ages 2 and a half to 18 Now that he is healthy and ready to get back in order to give them something special. Kids out there, he plans to fish with his stepdad. can wish to be something, meet someone, go For more info, contact Cheryl Kehrmeyer somewhere, get something or give to a nonprofit organization. Once a child is enrolled of the Bass Pro Shops Events, Promotions in the program, people from Make-A-Wish and Community Relations team at 655-2443 or cakehrmeyer@basspro.com.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

August 2021

BASS PRO SHOPS DONATES FISHING EQUIPMENT TO LOCAL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION

By Pauline Derry

Tampa’s Bass a Kid Fishing, Inc., Pro Shops recently and his team change donated over 600 the lives of fatherfishing combos, rods less and foster kids and reels to local by mentoring them nonprofit organiand taking them on zation Take a Kid fishing trips where Fishing, Inc. as part they learn the imof its annual Gone portance of life skills Fishing National Doand, most importantnation Day that took ly, are shown that place on June 10. someone cares about This year, over them.

40,000 refurbished “Their donation rods and reels were enables me to bless donated to nonless fortunate kids profit organizations in the community. A across the country. lot of the kids live in The gently used foster care and are fishing equipment unable to afford the was brought in by equipment to fish. I customers in return William Dunn, founder and CEO of Take a Kid give away eight to for discounts on new Fishing, Inc., takes underprivileged kids on fishing 10 rods at a time, so excursions. gear. donations like this “We’re thrilled help us keep going,” to be such an imDunn said. “This is portant part of their second year introducing kids donating to us and it and their families has helped tremenin our communidously.” ty to the fun of William and his fishing. They’re team are always choosing to put accepting PayPal down the phones donations on their and video games website along with and spend quality time in the outdoors new company sponsors to fund fishing making wonderful family memories,” said trips to help their cause.

Jarron Ritchie, Bass Pro Shops Tampa genFor more information on how to get ineral manager. volved or to donate, visit www.takffl.com William Dunn, founder and CEO of Take or contact Dunn at 863-944-5641.

Page 13

CAMPO YMCA WELCOMES NEW TEAM MEMBERSBy Michelle Caceres are affordable for all.”

Pratt joined the YMCA team in 2018 as membership and wellness director at East Pasco YMCA after moving from Michigan, where he was manager of Domino’s Farms Corporate Fitness Center. He graduated from Eastern Michigan UniCampo Family YMCA welcomes Robyn Ostrem and Ryan Pratt to its team. versity with a BS in sports medicine and Campo Family YMCA exercise science. has appointed Robyn OstHe has been blown away rem as its vice president of by the number of members operations and Ryan Pratt that visit the Campo YMCA as its associate executive each day, which is a marked director. increase from number that Ostrem, who has been frequented the East Pasworking for the Tampa co facility. He knew every Metropolitan Area YMCA members name, a task that since 2019, transferred he said is going to be more from the New Tampa Famdifficult at Campo. ily YMCA, where she served as its execuPratt said he wants members to know tive director. Prior to 2019, she was living the YMCA is there to support them. “Evin Illinois and working for the YMCA of ery time a member steps into our facility, Metro Chicago.

I want them to know they are a part of Ostrem said she and her staff have been our Y family and that we are here to assist working diligently to make cosmetic upthem on their journey to living a healthy dates (fresh paint, updated lighting and and fulfilling life,” he said. hiring a new cleaning company), and other Campo Family YMCA, celebrating its exciting facility improvements are coming 20th anniversary this year, offers two soon. swimming pools with a splash pad and She also is focusing on increasing the waterslides, an outdoor picnic and worknumber of individuals serving on the board out area, a basketball gym, a variety of of advisors. “These individuals are tasked frequent group exercise classes, plenty of with helping to raise money for the Y, exercise machines and free weights, youth which is important since we are a nonprofsports, summer camps and more. it organization,” she said. “Funds raised For more information, please visit www. support our Open Doors program, which tampaymca.org or call 684-1371. ensures YMCA membership and programs

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Page 14

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 8

LOCAL GIRL SCOUT RECEIVES SILVER RELAY FOR LIFE HOSTS ANNUAL AWARD FOR PROJECT AT THE KICKOFF PARTY By Lily Belcher LIVINGSTONE ACADEMY On August 26, Relay For Life of Plant ues when possible.

By Debra Garcia

home.

On June 24, Polley hosted a DIY/donation day 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Livingstone Academy.

This was an opportunity for people to come make homemade fidgets/ sensory toys for the students at the school. Polley made 180 DIY sensory toys that day. She then Shea Polley (front and center) stands with her team after the open- created an Amazon Wish List for friends, family ing of the Sensory Center at Livingstone Academy. and the community to Eighth-grade Girl Scout Shea Polley was purchase sensory and fidget toys for the given her Silver Award for her sensory/fidproject, receiving over $800 in donations get toy center project at the Livingstone from the list.

Academy Autism Center.

Her next task was contacting six CEOs of Polley is 11 years old and comes from a sensory/fidget toy companies. Play Visions family of Girl Scouts, with both her mothlet her know it has sent a huge box of sener and grandmother still active in the Girl sory toys directly to Livingstone Academy Scouts. So, she takes all her awards and Autism Center that will arrive soon. To help projects very seriously. She started in kinthe autism center and spread the word of dergarten as a Daisy and as of her eighthher project, Polley created a brochure. It grade year, she will be a Cadette. showed people how the autism community It all started when Polley wanted to is helped by sensory/fidget toys. start working on her Silver Award project, As of June 26, Polley was rewarded her which needed to be 50 service hours. PolSilver Award, which is the second-highest ley’s passion for her friends with autism award a Girl Scout can receive. and fidgets gave her the idea for her proj“I have been able to help raise awareness ect. for the autism community and show how She began researching and working on fidget/sensory toys can help that commuher project. She first Chris Pello, owner of nity. I have also helped raise awareness Livingstone Academy Autism Center, and for the good things that Girl Scouts do to Kristin Lisi, executive director of Livinggive back to the community. The one thing stone Academy Autism Center, to discuss I learned the most is, when you are truly the idea of a sensory/fidget center for the passionate about your project, it doesn’t school. Polley quickly created a Facebook feel like work but an exciting goal to help page for DIYs on how to make fidgets at others,” said Polley.

WWW.WOMENSCAREFL.COM

City is hosting its annual Kickoff Party.

Following the Kickoff Party, Relay For The event, hosted at Life will host the Red Barn in Plant in-person and City, will be in person some virtuand all Relay For Life al monthly supporters are encourmeetings aged to attend. leading up to “The Kickoff Party its event in is a time to come tothe spring. gether to learn about Before the the American Cancer event, comSociety, register your munity memteam, select a theme bers can get and start the event involved with Relay For Life announces the beginning of the seaseason,” said Relay For Relay For Life son with its annual Kick Off Party.

Life Director of Regional and support the Integrated Marketing Brittany American Cancer Society.

Leiser.

At relayforlife.org, comSince some may still have munity members can join concerns regarding the corotheir Relay community and navirus, the Kickoff Party will read about the stories of include a virtual component, cancer survivors and caresomething all events from this givers. They can join the naseason will have in some mantional Relay For Life Communer. nity Group on Facebook to learn how their “Though Relay For Life may look differ- fellow members are helping the American ent than it has in the past, our passion Cancer Society around the country. and commitment remain the same. There Members can then begin raising monare now more ways than ever for anyone, ey through the American Cancer Society anywhere, to join the Relay community— FUNdraising app and look at creative ways virtually or in person—and come together to start their fundraiser. Through the app, to connect, support and fundraise to help they can text and email their friends and save lives from cancer,” said Leiser. family to encourage them to donate and While the American Cancer Society and track their donations.

Relay For Life will continue to help fight Finally, Relay For Life members can docancer despite the pandemic, Leiser and nate to the fight against Cancer at relayher team are still conscious of the health forlife.org/donate. and safety concerns of their participants.

For more information on how to support They are continuing to monitor recent CDC Relay For Life and the American Cancer guidelines regarding masks and sanitizing Society and to get updates for the 2022 station, as well as selecting outdoor ven- season, visit relayforlife.org.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

August 2021

Page 15

BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY WITH SUPERINTENDENT DAVIS

By Superintendent Addison Davis

It is with great enthusiasm that we welcome back our students, teachers, staff and families to what will be a phenomenal 2021-22 school year.

Returning students to a more familiar routine will be paramount to their academic success and overall social and emotional wellness. Our families will re-engage through face-to-face learning, or by joining thousands of families who have chosen Hillsborough Virtual K-12.

Our first priority remains health and safety as students and staff return to campuses. We will continue to practice social distancing per CDC guidance for schools where possible; each school will have ample PPE available for use, including sanitation stations in all classrooms, face coverings for those who want one and directional signage in hallways for controlled movement. Each school will continue to have a COVID-19 lead—a staff member designated to guide our protocols in partnership with Department of Health - Hillsborough (DOH-H), including contact tracing and quarantines.

In line with CDC guidelines, fully vaccinated individuals with no COVID-19 symptoms will not be required to quarantine. Individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 90 days and remain symptom free will also be excluded from quarantine.

Our schools will once again benefit from some of our most valuable partners—school volunteers. These irreplace-

CLEANING CLEANING SERVICE SERVICE

able resources provide crucial contributions, including individual academic supports for kids, distributing student incentives, gathering of school supplies and direct support to teachers. We do encourage our visitors to schedule appointments through school leadership prior to visiting campus.

Based on COVID-19 trends across the community and combined with recommendations from local health officials, HCPS (Hillsborough County Public Schools) has planned for full student programming this school year. Our safety protocols will not vanish during extracurricular/athletic contests, as we will continue to recommend the use of face coverings and social distancing while in attendance regardless of the venue.

Reopening schools is critical in our efforts to narrow the achievement gap for students, as well as accelerate learning gains that may have slowed during the most unorthodox school year on record.

We will continue to work with the DOH-H and Tampa General Hospital/USF Health as we monitor conditions across our community so that we respond in a smart and measured way as necessary.

We have also created a reopening plan with more information. Go to www.hillsboroughschools.org for details. We want to thank everyone that has contributed to the work of protecting and educating our students over these past 16 months.

Welcome to your August update of new projects in the greater Brandon/Riverview area. Please check respective Facebook pages or web sites for the most recent information.

In Brandon, contractors have been repurposing the closed Sweet Tomatoes restaurant on SR 60 west of Falkenburg Rd. into Sushi Yama, featuring Japanese and Asian cuisine, as well as converting the old Toys “R” Us building in the Westfield Brandon mall area into the new Tampa/Brandon campus of Rasmussen University, specializing in nursing education but also offering degrees in business, design, education, health sciences and justice studies.

ModWash car wash submitted plans for a store on Falkenburg Rd. just south of Palm River Rd., adjacent to the 7-Eleven on the east side. Brandon Medical South, a 40,000 sq. ft. medical facility will be built on Kings Ave. between Oakfield Dr. and Lumsden Ave. The southeast corner of SR 60 and Miller Rd. will see the existing Hungry Howie’s and barber shop demolished, making room for a new Hungry Howie’s without seating, and reduced to 1,320 sq. ft., along with a proposed 2,600 sq. ft.

Andy Frozen Custard added, with both appearing to offer drive-through service.

In Riverview, the Hillsborough County School Board has recently submitted plans to add 594 seats to Collins Elementary along with a new 20,000 sq. ft. gymnasium and additions to the music, dining

and media center and convert the school from an elementary school to prekindergarten through eighth grade. Additionally, the request includes the addition of shared park and recreational facilities as well as a 15,000 sq. ft. community center that includes a playground with basketball courts on the northern parcel to be shared with the public. KB Homes will be building 176 single family homes south of Symmes Rd. at the Riverview Flower Farm location between Fern Hill Dr. and U.S. 301.

The Shops at Waterset Crossing will reside on the west side of Waterset Blvd. south of Big Bend Rd. The plaza has a “lease pending with a national grocer” as the anchor store with outparcels available for retail and restaurant opportunities. This shopping center will essentially be sandwiched between 293 D.R. Horton Townhomes on the east side of Waterset Blvd. and 343 apartments to the west of the project.

The Belmont area keeps exploding with the announcement of the Sumner Crossing shopping plaza on the northeast corner with CVS, Starbucks, Lockhart Storage and Camel Car Wash planned for the 15acre site, with additional outparcels available. Directly across U.S. 301 on the northwest corner, the Strathmore Real Estate Group is marketing 4-plus acres of commercial land “capable of supporting enhanced drive-through capability for quick serve restaurants or a state-of-the-art convenience store with fueling stations,” as well as other potential opportunities.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition kets in advance the rate is reduced to $35.

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End of Summer Celebration At Bier Fest & More...

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Celebrate The End Of Summer At Bier Fest

During the fourth year of Bier Fest at Busch Gardens, guests can sip seasonal beverage offerings and savor new recipes featuring fan-favorite breweries. Beer flows through the park on an all-new beer trail, weaving between iconic coasters, local live music and fascinating animal habitats while incorporating restaurants and outdoor culinary stations, including the new Giraffe Bar. Several festival locations feature nonalcoholic beverage options, including a watermelon agua fresca, to offer cool relief on those hot summer days. Bier Fest at Busch Gardens runs each Friday through Sunday until Sunday, October 31.

Plant City Social Dance

Plant City Social Dance will be hosting its regular Saturday night dance schedule.

Dances are held at the Strawberry Square Dance Center, located at 4401 Promenade Blvd. in Plant City, and tickets are $7. It runs from 6-9:30 p.m. with ballroom music from 6-6:30p.m., followed by regular dance music.

For more information and a sample of the dance music, visit www.djkenmiller.com or email pcsocialdanceclub@inbox.com.

Concealed Carry And Home Defense Fundamentals Class

Simon Firearm & Family Safety Training is offering a concealed carry and home defense fundamentals class on Saturday, September 18. It also offers a range of training classes, including children’s gun safety and countering the mass shooter threat.

For more on training classes and to register for an event, contact James Simon at besafe@ simonsafetytraining.com or call 363-7576.

B Street Market Place Is Looking For Vendors

B Street Market Place will be starting in October and running through April, skipping January, and it is looking for vendors for the events. The markets will be held at Keller Williams Realty, located at 2350 E. SR 60 in Valrico, on the first Saturday of the month from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Registration fee is $40 per market or if you register for all six mar-

Make Your Own Bath Bomb At Center Place

Center Place’s yoga mother and daughter duo from Well Rooted Wellness will be teaching guests how to create their own bath bombs. The class will take place on Thursday, September 16 from 6-9 p.m. at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. The cost for the class is $40 and includes wine, food and supplies for making bath bombs.

To register for the class, call Center Place on 685-8888.

Dementia And Alzheimer’s Support Groups Now Meeting

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 ones. A great way to learn and share are the new hybrid Alzheimer’s Association support groups, which are now being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon. One is an evening group and the other is midday. The evening group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. (Zoom meeting number: 897 6781 0479; password: evening). The midday meeting is on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 2 p.m. (Zoom meeting number: 869 4044 7508; password: support). Tessera of Brandon is located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. Call 607-6880 for more information.

Volume 16, Issue 8

WANT TO SELL YOUR HOME FAST? CONTACT REALNET FLORIDA REAL ESTATE

By Amy Schechter

Do you want to take advantage of the seller’s market but have special or unique circumstances that may make selling your house a challenge? If so, you owe it to yourself to contact Realnet Florida Real Estate.

With over 20 years of experience in the Tampa real estate market, Realnet agents understand sellers’ needs and are able to provide quick closings where sellers never pay real estate commissions. Is your home in need of significant repairs? Are banks shy to lend on the home? These are questions that may keep sellers from exploring their options, but Realnet Florida Real Estate is here to say that it has found many win-win situations for sellers and no problem is too big.

Realnet Florida Real Estate is always looking to buy houses for cash throughout all of Hillsborough County as well as the surrounding counties. It will buy your house as-is tomorrow or at a later date depending on your circumstances. You cannot find this kind of flexibility elsewhere. They have a proven track record of restoring distressed and outdated homes to their former glory and either selling on the retail market or incorporating it into their rental property network.

You have nothing to lose. Barbara Burk, agent and office manager at Realnet Florida Real Estate, eagerly awaits your call: “If you have a home you would like to sell in any neighborhood of the Tampa Bay area,

please reach out to us today. We would be happy to talk to you and tell you how we buy houses. Most importantly, we want to hear about your circumstances and what you are looking for. We can make this process stress free for you. And of course, we will pay all of your closing costs so the price we agree on is the amount you will receive when we buy your home.”

For more information, visit realnetflorida. com or call 288-8000. You can email Burk at barbara@realnettampabay.com. Realnet Florida Real Estate is located at 1902 W. Main St., 1st floor in Tampa.

Chill Cawfee Hosts Wellness Luncheons

Chill Cawfee will be presenting monthly Wellness Luncheons with Dr. Kelly King at Releaf MD. The luncheons will answer questions about CBD medical marijuana, ailments that qualify, products that are available at dispensaries and the processing of state information. Dates for upcoming luncheons are Saturday, September 18 and Saturday, October 16. The luncheons will take place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Chill Cawfee is located at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.

Terrific Kids Golf Tournament Coming Soon

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon is holding its annual Terrific Kids Golf Tournament on Thursday, October 7 at Buckhorn Springs Golf and Country Club in Valrico. The Kiwanis Club is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child at a time and runs several programs in the area, including Terrific Kids in 26 elementary schools, Key Clubs in six high schools, the Project Smile feeding program and Kiwanis Kicks (shoes for children in need). For more or to register for the event, visit www.brandonkiwanis.org. Email the tournament director at adustie15@ gmail.com or call 294-0645.

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August 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

BRANDON OUTREACH FREE CLINIC AND RESOURCE CENTER WILL HOST COMEDY FUNDRAISER IN OCTOBER

By Makenzie Atkins Ready to used to get out of the b e f o r e house and 2020—this have a good includes evening while Brandon supporting a Outreach great cause?

Free ClinBrandon Outic and reach Free Resource Clinic and ReCenter. The source Center Brandon Outreach Free Clinic and Resource Center are hoping to to o r g a n i z a bring some joy to the community with a comedy fundraiser. is hosting a tion is hopcomedy show ing to raise in October to raise mon$50,000 from the ey in support of patient care.

The comedy show will be held on Friday, October 8 at 6 p.m. at The Regent, located right behind the Winthrop neighborhood in Rivercomview. Each ticket is $75 edy show fundraiser and includes the show to support patient featuring three comedicare at its facility. ans, a heavy hors d’oeuIn addition to the vre dinner with nonbasic ticket option, Cyrus Steele alcoholic beverages, a there are also VIP silent auction and more. tables of eight availBrandon Outreach able and a cash bar Free Clinic and Resource will be open. Brandon Center was created by Outreach Free Clinic Brandon community and Resource Center members to help those is also accepting silent who are uninsured have auction donations, easy and safe access to more information on health care. Not only this can be found on does Brandon Outreach the website.

Free Clinic and ReThe three comedisource Center provide ans that will be prehealth care, but it also forming are, Cyrus has pharmacists, social Steele, Sheena ReaRyan Daniels workers, clergy, attorgan and Ryan Daniels. neys and bankers in orSteele has performed der to create a safety on HBO Comedy net for those who need Wings Competition, it.

America’s Got Talent “We are a volunteer and more. Regan is medical clinic that relies Florida’s Funniest Feon donations to provide male and Daniels is a free medical care to local comedian who low-income, uninsured performs all over Florresidents of Hillsborida. ough County,” said AlliFor more informason Hedrick, executive tion, contact Allison director at the Brandon Hedrick, executive Outreach Free Clinic director at Brandon and Resource Center.

Outreach Free Clinic “Due to COVID, we have and Resource Center Sheena Reagan been unable to host our at 654-1388, allison@ spring fundraiser both in 2020 and 2021.” theoutreachclinic.com or visit http://www.

With COVID, many nonprofit organiza- theoutreachclinic.com/lol-comedy-show, tions have had trouble raising the same where you can purchase tickets and view amount of donations they may have been the complete event details.

Page 17

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CENTER PLACE: BUNCO & MORE

By Libby Hopkins

Bunco is back at Center Place. The center’s first bunco will be held at Center Place on Tuesday, September from 7-9 p.m. Tickets cost $20 each or $120 to sponsor a table. “Center Place bunco is a well-known and loved event of the Brandon community,” Hopkins said.

“We have been working with many local businesses to get some awesome bunco prizes and raffle items. The support Center Place has gotten from Brandon’s Historical Photos exhibit is currently on display in the the Brandon community and Mook Gallery at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association. beyond has been amazing.”

Center Place is looking for Center Place has been busy planning its fall art classes, shows and programming. local child artists to submit their art for its “We currently have Brandon’s Historical upcoming Little DaVinci’s annual Art Show Photos exhibit on display in Center Place’s Contest. The entering ages for the contest Mook Gallery,” said Center Place’s executive are 4-12 years of age. Submissions can be board president, Ryan Odiorne. “This exhibit made at Center Place on Oct. 26 from 10 spotlights Brandon’s humble beginnings and a.m. to 4 p.m. The entrée fee is $5. The medibeauty. I invite the Brandon community to ums accepted are paintings, clay sculptures, come and take a look at this awesome ex- 3D artwork, paper-made art, photography, jewelry creations and drawings. The recephibit.”

Center Place is currently working with tion will be held at Center Place on Thursday.

Hillsborough County to offer free art therapy November 18 from 4-7 p.m. and awards will classes for children and children with Down be presented at the reception.

Center Place is also working on offering syndrome. “These programs were created from the partnership Center Place has with a school holiday day camp with Drama Kids the Down Syndrome Association of Tampa International that will be taking place on Bay,” said Center Place’s executive director, various school holidays throughout the upLibby Hopkins. “Center Place currently offers coming 2021-22 school year.

Stages Productions and Center Place are an art therapy program for adults, which has been met with some great response. We working together to bring Santa’s Holiday want to also offer our art therapy program Review to Center Place from Wednesday to to children in our community as well as the Friday, December 1-3 and Charlotte’s Web families from [our] community partner, the in the spring of 2022. Keep an eye on CenDown Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay. ter Place’s new website, www.centerplaceWe hope to have the free art therapy classes brandon.com, for more details. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in available by October 1 of this year.”

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

THE COUNTY FAIR RETURNS WITH NEW THEME, EVENTS, HARVEST QUEEN & MORE

By Libby Hopkins

The County Fair is returning to Hillsborough County.

The County Fair has returned to Hillsborough County. Starting on Thursday, September 23, residents will be able to attend the annual Hillsborough County Fair. The event will last for eight days, from September 23 to Sunday, October 3.

“Our fair is always aimed toward family fun,” Suzanne Holcomb, Hillsborough County Fair manager, said, “We also focus a lot on agriculture and nature.”

The theme for this year’s fair is ‘From Wagon Wheels to Ferris Wheels.’ The event offers livestock showcases during the fair. Each participant in the showcase will display their entered animal and compete for ‘Premier Exhibitor.’ Each category is also open for children 17 and under to enter in the ‘Youth Livestock Exhibition.’

“During a fair, people expect to see rides and food,” Holcomb said, “We have a few different events going on in addition to the typical fair events.”

The Hillsborough Fairgrounds will offer a two-day rodeo and a one-day demolition derby; these events will require separate tickets. Sunday, September 26 at the fair is Heroes Day. All active duty, reserve military, veterans, LEOs, first responders

and health care professionals will have free admission with a valid ID card. Heroes from each department will be recognized and will have a Q&A event with the audience. People 16 and older can also enter the ‘Hillsborough Harvest Idol Contest’ for a cash prize and the ‘Harvest Queen Pageant’ for a chance to win scholarships of up to $1,000.

“Every fair, we’ve had about 25,000 people in attendance,” Holcomb said, “We always try to cater to the family demographic and are very excited to present this year’s fair to the public.”

Registration for the Harvest Queen Pageant ended on August 3 and all breeding animal entries should be registered by Wednesday, September 1. Entries for the demolition derby should be submitted by Saturday, October 2.

For more information on how to enter events and purchase tickets, go to https:// hillsboroughcountyfair.com/. Prices range from $8 to $85. Senior tickets are at a discounted price and children under 5 get free admission. For more information on how to enter,

8/31/2021

8/31/2021

Volume 16, Issue 8

ADVENTHEALTH INTRODUCES ONLINE SCHEDULING TOOL INQUICKER TO CREATE A MORE CONVENIENT EXPERIENCE FOR ER PATIENTS Staff Report Book online. Wait in the comfort and safety of your home. Patients with nonlife- or limb-threatening emergencies can now reserve a treatment time online before arriving to the emergency room at AdventHealth Tampa.

For non-life-threatening emergencies, visit getinquicker.com on your desktop computer or mobile device from the comfort of your own home to see available appointment times. Once you find an available time that fits with your schedule, click to reserve the treatment time and complete a brief secure form with your information. You will immediately receive a confirmation with directions and details regarding your visit. At your arrival, its team of ER experts will be ready and waiting for you.

“I was very pleased with how smooth everything went. The staff were very pleasant and supportive of the online scheduling. I did not even know about this until I went to the website to see how long the wait was,” said an AdventHealth InQuickER patient.

At the AdventHealth Tampa ER, its pa-

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When you come to the AdventHealth Tampa ER, you automatically have important benefits. It is part of AdventHealth’s connected network of care, which is the largest health system in Florida. This means you have access to all the services and specialty care offered at AdventHealth hospitals. With emergency care close to home, along with its greater system of skilled experts, you can be assured that you’ll have the care you need, when you need it.

To learn more about InQuickER, please visit its website at GetInQuickER.com.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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Volume 16, Issue 8

Brandon/Winthrop

New Season, Page 29 Cherry Blow Dry Bar To Open In Brandon Cherry Blow Dry Bar, one of the fastest-growing blowdry bar franchises in the country, is set to open its first location in the Brandon area in July. The new location will service the Brandon and Tampa Bay area. Cherry Blow Dry Bar offers its signature express services, including blowouts and lash extensions, through its affordable membership model. Its premium services include keratin treatments, hair extensions, haircuts and coloring—most recently launching the popular brow lamination and lash-lift services.

The new salon, located at 935 Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, will offer a unique membership program starting as low as $39 for a monthly blowout.

Customers can pick and choose from Cherry Blow Dry Bar’s styling menu, which includes nine different hairstyles, from updos and beachy waves to braids and voluminous curls. In addition to accommodating its loyal members, it also caters toward groups, bridal parties and even little ones.

Cherry Blow Dry Bar’s team of highly

campus and its degree offerings, visit www.rasmussen.edu/locations/ florida/tampa-brandon/.

Visit on Facebook @Rasm u s s e n Ta m p a B ra n d o n , Twitter @Rasmussen or Instagram @RasmussenUniversity. trained, talented stylists works with all types of hair using the best tools and products in the industry. Brands include Blowpro and Pureology hair care, Hotheads® Hair Extensions, Bella Lash extensions, Keratin Complex repair and treatment systems and other popular lines.

During its opening month, the Brandon Cherry Blow Dry Bar will be offering several limited-time offers, including complimentary services and special pricing. To stay up to date, follow its Brandon Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cherryblowdrybarbrandonfl or visit www.cherryblowdrybar.com.

Rasmussen University Opens Upgraded Campus In Brandon Rasmussen University, a regionally ac-

credited private university, announced the relocation and opening of its brandnew Tampa/Brandon campus. Classes at the new campus, located at 330 Brandon Town Center Dr. in Brandon, began in July. “The Rasmussen University Tampa/Brandon campus has grown to one of the largest Rasmussen campuses, creating a need for more classroom space, nursing and health science labs, simulation equipment as well as faculty and staff space,” said Jamie Sperling, campus director. “We’re excited to announce the relocation and opening of our new campus, which boasts innovative features to provide a unique learning experience and access to a dynamic curriculum designed to prepare students for future success.”

For more information about the Rasmussen University Tampa/Brandon

Fraiche Medspa Opens In Brandon Fraiche Medspa offers you the unique opportunity to combine traditional and nontraditional treatments to achieve a healthy and youthful appearance. Its aim is to keep you looking youthful and feeling physically rejuvenated for years to come. Dr. Nicola Archie, DNP, MSN, FNP-C owns Fraiche Medspa and offers a variety of services and treatments, including chemical peels, HydraFacials, microneedling, dermal filler injections and more.

Fraiche Medspa is located at 210 S. Parsons Ave., Ste. 3 in Brandon. For more information, visit www. fraichemedspa.com or call 330-0266.

Family-Owned Pizza Store Opens In Seffner Marco’s Pizza has opened its newest location at 11713 E. Dr. Martin Luther

Page 22

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED...

King Jr. Blvd. in Seffner. The location is health. We are all getting older, and owned by Michael Brody and operated we are conditioned to think that there by his cousin, Bryis nothing we can do ant Austin. Origiabout it, so New Vinally from Chicago, tality Centers helps Brody and Austin to give you vibrancy are no strangers and energy, and thus to delicious pizza. a better quality of life After a long wait, as you get older. It these two entrefocuses on preventing preneurs are now disease through nateager to share ural remedies, includtheir love for Maring BHRT (bioidentical Yard Guards on Doody celebrates 18 years in co’s Pizza with the hormone replacement business.

Seffner community. therapy), For more information, visit www.

MoreNmarcos.com or call 822-3100. ova Linear Wave Yard Guards On Doody Celebrates for erec18 Years In Business tile dysCheresee Rehart, a Boyette Springs function, resident, started Yard Guards on medical Doody in 2003, and she is very happy weight to be celebrating its 18-year anniverloss, PRP sary. Yard Guards on Doody comes to (plateresidential yards, places of business, let-rich dog waste stations, commercial plasma) properties and most anywhere else with skin rejuvenation and hair restoration, dog waste that needs to be removed. It PRP injections for pain, IV nutrient offers regular weekly, twice-weekly and therapy, Botox, medical marijuana cards biweekly services as well as a one time and more. New Vitality Centers helps service. Mention this article and receive you optimize a $10 Poopon to use how you feel, on services. no matter For more informayour age. tion, visit www.ruffNew Vitaljob.com or call 657ity Centers 9797. is located at 665 S. Kings New Vitality Centers Ave. in BranOpens In Brandon don. For more information, visit www.

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Volume 16, Issue 8

YOUNG MAN TAKES ON 50-YARD SUMMER MOWING CHALLENGE

By Ariana Pedraza Many people this summer have found hobbies and activities to keep them busy and engaged.

One local Valrico fourth-grader took staying busy one step further.

Raising Men Lawn Care Service, a small nonprofit organization, has challenged kids to mow 50 lawns each free of charge for anyone who cannot mow their lawns themselves.

This includes the elderly, veterans, single parents and anyone else who is in need of assistance.

For every 10 lawns mowed, the participant is rewarded with a different colored shirt (first orange, then green, blue, red and finally black), and at the end, the challenger receives their own lawn mower, leaf blower and weed eater. Participants ages 7-17 are welcome to try and are encouraged to team up to do good for the community.

Corbin Dihel, a 9-year-old boy in the Bloomingdale area, entered the Raising Men Lawn Care Service 50Yard Challenge with the intention of helping as many people as he could. Within his first five days of starting the challenge, Corbin had mowed eight lawns.

With the help of his parents, who did the weed Valrico resident Corbin Dihel is particeating, Corbin has been ipating in the 50 Yard Challenge this summer. able to get most lawns

done within a couple hours. His first lawn, however, was over an acre of grass that had not been mowed in a while and took him three hours to clean up.

“I wanted to help people in need that can’t mow their yards themselves or can’t afford it,” Corbin explained, “So far, I have helped a retired lunch lady with a walker, a single mom, a veteran with cancer, an elderly lady with cancer and an elderly couple with COVID.” Corbin’s parents have helped, but are giving all the credit to him for getting out there and doing the most he can every time.

Mrs. Dihel, Corbin’s mom, said, “I am so proud that Corbin has stepped up and accepted this challenge. I hope this experience stays with him forever and he always remembers how to spread kindness to others.”

The road to 50 lawns is not a short one, but Corbin plans to go even farther. Soon after finishing his current challenge, he wants to move on to 50 more, exclusively for military members, and then even start his own lawn care service.

To learn more about the 50-Yard Challenge, visit www.weareraisingmen.com/the-50-yardchallenge.

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Page 24

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 8

RETIRED MARINE & PLATELET DONOR HOSTS COMMUNITY ONEBLOOD DRIVES

By Pauline Derry

SENIOR CONNECTION CENTER ANNOUNCES 2020/21 SALT & PEPPER AWARD WINNERS

By Kathy L. Collins

Senior ConnecCenter Emertion Center, the gency Squad area’s aging and has been prodisability resource viding services center, held its Anto the residents nual Rise & Shine of the area for Award Ceremony 57 years. The on May 25. The squad has over event was held vir- Mike Bardell and Diane Simon, both residents of Sun City 400 volunteers tually this year and Center, received Salt & Pepper Awards at Senior Connec- who provide tion Center’s Annual Rise & Shine Award Ceremony. more than 250 peoa variety of ple participated from home or work. services for free. These include ambulance Patty Suarez, Senior Connection Center transport, a wheelchair van service and vice president, said, “We had to cancel last lending equipment such as wheelchairs. year’s event, so it was especially important Bardell said, “I was flattered to win to have a ceremony this year.” Suarez add- and was kind of surprised. I do not have a ed, “Even though we held it virtually, it was God-given talent. I was given this award as still exciting to recognize the award winners a result of the willingness and sacrifice of and share the heartwarming stories of the those volunteers who work for the squad. impact they have on their communities.”

This was especially so during the COVID-19 The Rise & Shine Awards Ceremony is pandemic. They continued to work despite an opportunity to recognize outstanding the risk to their health.” achievements of local seniors by giving Bardell added, “This award is a result them Salt & Pepper Awards and to share of all those who work for the squad. I am the work Senior Connection is doing. It is thrilled to get the recognition for the squad also a way to pay tribute to the late Hon- because they do so much.” orable Claude Pepper, who represented Diane Simon, another resident of Sun City Florida in Congress and was instrumental in Center, also received an award for Arts and developing the Medicare program.

Entertainment for sharing her artistic talAwards are given in categories of Philan- ent as a painter to benefit charity and inthropy, Community Service and Volunteer- spiring others through her teaching. ism, Arts and Entertainment and Health Senior Connection Center is a private and Wellness. nonprofit whose mission is help older adults Locally, Mike Bardell, a resident of Sun and persons who have disabilities live with City Center and the chief of the Sun City independence and dignity. For more inforCenter Emergency Squad, was awarded the mation, please visit www.seniorconnectionHealth and Wellness Award. The Sun City center.org.

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The Big Red Bus can be seen throughout the FishHawk community for easy access to donating.

After serving his country, retired Marine John-Michael Elms is continuing to do good by donating blood and platelets through the blood donation center OneBlood.

OneBlood is a nonprofit community asset responsible for providing safe, available and affordable blood to more than 200 hospital partners and their patients.

Since childhood, Elms has been around those who donate regularly, such as his dad, a first responder. Growing up seeing his dad help his community along with being a Boy Scout and a lifeguard inspired him to start donating at the young age of 16.

Now, retired from the Marines, Elms, a FishHawk resident, is donating to cope with his experiences from the war.

“Any day you save a life is better than a day you don’t,” he said, referring to the statistic that one pint of blood can save up to three lives.

Elms keeps a regular appointment to go in to the OneBlood donation center to donate a

‘triple’ every two weeks, meaning he is able to donate three times the number of platelets than the normal person. This process takes a little longer than a regular Big Red Bus donation but can help when people are in need.

Elms goes a step further than just donating, however; he also hosts blood drives in the FishHawk area. Places like the Starling Club and Bevis Elementary have each been a host to these drives in the past.

The next drive he is putting on is on Saturday, August 28 at the Osprey Club Community Center from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

“It’s not terribly painful. It’s a small needlestick. You get free cookies, juice, a T-shirt and sometimes even a gift card,” Elms said.

Places nearby such as Moffitt Cancer Center, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Tampa General are always in need of platelets and blood. Because of this, Elms encourages all people who are in the area and eligible to donate.

The blood products are used for a wide range of illnesses, such as sickle cell disease and hemophilia, and helps COVID-19, cancer and trauma patients.

Blood is made up of four main components. Red blood cells, platelets, plasma and white blood cells. Each whole blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives.

Not only does donating help people locally, but worldwide as well. OneBlood is certified to send its blood out of the United States to countries that need blood because of natural disasters.

For more information on how and where to donate along with how to host a drive yourself, visit www.oneblood.org.

August 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 25

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA TO OPEN THE BESS THE BOOK BUS HELPS INSPIRE ART IN THE COMMUNITY FALL SEASON WITH BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH

By Libby Hopkins

Bess the Book has served more Bus is a local than 25,000 chiln o n p r o f i t /m o dren and given bile literacy outaway 900,000 reach dedicated books in dozens of to building home states across the libraries for chilUSA each year. dren and families Bess the Book that otherwise Bus recently donatmay not have the ed multiple art and opportunity to activity books to own books. “We Center Place Fine build home librarArts & Civic Assoies and a love for ciation in Brandon. reading in our Bess the Book Bus is a local nonprofit/mobile litera- “These books will most underserved cy outreach dedicated to building home libraries for be used in our chilc o m m u n i t i e s children and families that otherwise may not have dren’s art classes,” the opportunity to own books. across the USA by said Center Place’s making the joy of executive board book ownership a represident, Ryan Odiality for our kids,” said orne. “We have also Bess’ head bus driver, shared this amazing Jenn Frances. “Bess book donation with the Book Bus’ volunour community partteers and board memners. This way, all bers envision a nation of our families will where all of our chilbe able to do art at dren have access to the Center Place as well basic resources they as fun creativities at need to be successful in home with their famischool and later in life.” lies. We are so thankFrances started the nonprofit because ful for Bess the Book Bus and all they do she wanted something more in life. “I just for Center Place.” wasn’t feeling fulfilled in life,” Frances said.

Bess the Book Bus will soon be debuting “I was happy, but something was missing.” a new bus in the community. “I’m thrilled She was looking for a volunteer oppor- that we received such amazing communitunity because she loves volunteering. “I ty support [and] that we will be debuting couldn’t find one that was a good fit for our new book bus very soon,” Frances said. me, so I thought about what I liked to do, If you would like to learn more about cashed in my 401(k) and bought a Volk- Bess the Book Bus or if you’d like for Franswagen bus.” From there, Bess the Book ces to bring Bess the Book Bus to your loBus was born. cation, you can visit her website at www.

Since its inception, Bess the Book Bus bessthebookbus.org.

AND VIVALDI’S THE FOUR SEASONS

By Kathy L. Collins The Florida OrUnlike many chestra has another major ornounced a full chestras across schedule of epic the country, symphonies and beThe Florida loved concertos feaOrchestra has turing world-class played throughsoloists. The season out the panexpands to venues demic while across Tampa Bay in following CDC the fall, including the guidelines for Straz Center for the safety at the Performing Arts in Mahaffey TheTampa. ater. Now, the This September, Michael Francis, The Florida Orchestra’s music director, state’s largest Music Director Mi- will welcome back full audiences as the 2021-22 season p r o f e s s i o n a l chael Francis will opens this September. Francis is in his seventh season orchestra is welcome back full as the music director and has led the orchestra through poised to return difficult times during the pandemic. audiences with two at full power powerhouse works in one concert featur- with traditional length concerts for big auing Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and Vival- diences in the fall. di’s The Four Seasons. The Tampa Bay MasThe Florida Orchestra’s 54th season will terworks Series will begin on the weekend bring internationally renowned soloists to of Friday-Sunday, September 24-26.

Tampa, including classical guitar superstar “As we emerge from this crisis, Bee- Milos. The season will feature popular conthoven’s Fifth Symphony is really the only certs that range from the music of Star piece that could open the season, because Wars to the cinematic America’s Wonders it so perfectly embodies our journey from and the cutting-edge FLY Dance Company. darkness to light. This is a time of rejuveIn addition to the Masterworks Series, nation, and what better than Vivaldi’s Four The Florida Orchestra offers the Raymond Seasons to take us out of winter and into James Pop Series, the Light Symphonic the new spring of life?” said Francis.

Morning Coffee Series and Community “I am so proud of how The Florida Or- Concerts. chestra has kept concerts going. Our comSeason tickets for the 2021-22 season munity has never needed live music more are offered as varying packages. Premium than now. I cannot wait to bring back the curated packages are the best value. You glorious power of a symphony at full force. can also compose your own series. For Experiencing such extraordinary music more information, please call The Florida together makes us stronger as we move Orchestra Ticket Center at 727-892-3337 forward with optimism and hope,” added or 800-662-7286 Monday through Friday Francis. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

LIFE’S TREASURES THRIFT STORE IN BRANDON HOSTED A PINNING CEREMONY FOR VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDERS

By Tatiana Ortiz Life’s Treasures Thrift Store held a special ican flag presentation and much more. pinning ceremony in commemoration of InFlorida is the third-largest military veteran dependence Day weekend on July 3 as part population in the nation, consisting of dedicatof the Chapters Health Valor program to hon- ed and highly skilled first responders. Chapor veterans and first responders. Chapters ters Health Foundation supports the work of Health Foundation funds and operates the Chapters Health System and serves Hillsborprogram. At the Branough, Pasco, Polk along don location, 12 veterwith other counties too. ans and first responders In Hillsborough were recognized. Each County, Chapters veteran and first reHealth Foundation sponder received a pin, supports LifePath Hosa certificate as well as a pice. Life’s Treasures stitched star.

Thrift Store Manager Adam Stanfield, the Cheryl Ann Haley at vice president of develthe Brandon location opment and executive stated that, as a local director of Chapters storefront, it makes Health Foundation, exdaily contact with vetplained how the pinning erans, first responders ceremonies came into and active military. This fruition. would be how her busi“The Valor pinnings ness got involved with were a fundamental Navy veteran Perry W. Norris received his the pinning ceremony. part of prior program“Overall, being able pin from uniformed, retired Air Force Lt. Col. ming to which the to talk with the people Lee Alexander at Life’s Treasures Thrift Store Foundation is seeking who received their pins in Brandon. to expand throughout and seeing their apprePhoto courtesy of Chapters Health System. its service community,” ciation felt inspiring as Stanfield said. “This will be a natural effort as well as humbling all at the same time,” Haley the stores run through the commitments of said. more than 400 volunteers, with many being The Life’s Treasures Thrift Stores are diveterans,” he added. rectly affiliated with Chapters Health System.

Chapters Health System honors first re- Any proceeds from the store funds services sponders and military veterans with a high for the patients’ families. quality of life until their last breath. It also For more information, visit www.chapterprovides hospice care, grief services and home shealth.org. Those interested in volunteer opcare to the veterans and their families. The de- portunities at either Life’s Treasures or with sign of this program aims to meet the special the Valor program can contact Anne Ferrell needs unique to first responders and military at ferrella@chaptershealth.org or call 461veterans, which includes honor pinning, Amer- 5279.

Volume 16, Issue 8

HOW HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY’S HEALTHY LIVING PROGRAM IS HELPING ITS RESIDENTS

By Pauline Derry On July 10, Hillsborough County’s Healthy Living Program partnered with Feeding Tampa Bay to put on a food pantry drive-through where residents of the county received free groceries at the SouthShore Community Resource Center.

The Healthy Living Program is part of the Hillsborough County Health The Healthy Living Program and Feeding Tampa Bay partnered up to Care Plan, which offers put on a drive-through food pantry event at the SouthShore affordable medical care Community Resource Center. to those who cational activities, group exercise cannot afford sessions, nutritional counseling traditional and health screenings. medical insurThe educational classes are ofance. fered in person or virtually and There are vary from learning how to eat community rehealthy to learning about diabesource centers tes prevention. in SouthShore, “My Healthy Living team rocks.

Lee Davis and We are so passionate about what we do Plant City, which all alternate in hosting and are always excited to help everyone,” a food pantry event every month in partsaid Paulett Davis, Healthy Living managnership with Feeding Tampa Bay, which er. “It is a privilege to do what we do.” has been supporting the program since its The only criteria to join the program and doors opened in 2018. obtain all the amenities stated above is to The recent food pantry events have been be a resident of Hillsborough County. drive-throughs to accommodate the CDC To get involved in the program, you can guidelines regarding COVID-19, but the upvolunteer with Feeding Tampa Bay to help coming ones will be walk-throughs where at a food pantry event near you. you will be able to get out of your car to For more information on the Healthy Livreceive a box or bag full of groceries. ing Program, visit www.hillsboroughcounEach community resource center is open ty.org and view the calendar, where you to all residents of Hillsborough County and will find upcoming food pantry events, or helps people achieve a healthy lifestyle call the hotline number at 272-5040 and through local, on-site services. Each rechoose option 7. source center offers an exercise room, edu-

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

August 2021

HCSO BICYCLE RESPONSE TEAM WELCOMES FOUR NEW OFFICERS INTO THEIR FAMILY

Page 27

DR. ANTHONY PIZZO NAMED EDUCATION FOUNDATION’S 2021 MENTOR OF THE YEAR

By Laura Marzullo

By Tatiana Ortiz

Deputy Dan Samec all successfully joined. They prepared for tryouts through additional MTB trail riding, distance road riding, weightlifting and cardio exercise.

“I began supplementing with additional cardio that started at 5 miles, and built up to 8-mile daily rides prior to my daily weightlifting routine, and concluded my workouts with added stretching to prevent injury and increase my flexibility,” said Patron.

The Bicycle Response Team recently held tryouts in Lithia.

Another new member of the team, Bergher, prepared A 20-mile endurance by taking trips to the ride, multiple fire alarm “HCSO Range in Lithia drills and a 13-mile, mulfor shooting in the mornticourse mountain bike ing with some mountain ride—four officers put bike riding in the aftertheir athleticism to the noon at Alafia State test in order to join the Park.”

HCSO Bicycle Response Patron has a passion for exercise and Team in Lithia recently.

The Bicycle Response Team (BRT) re- weightlifting, which they found through sponds to incidents of civil disobedience serving five years as a military police ofand large-scale special events. This in- ficer in the U.S. Army. After they got out volves crowd management, natural or of the military, they took the International man-made disasters and/or search and Police Mountain Course in June 2020 and instantly fell in love with mountain biking. rescue operations.

“I wanted to find a specialty team that In addition, “The BRT conducts routine bike patrol and bike safety presentations combined my passion for fitness and being by request or based on the operational a first responder, so I knew the Bicycle Reneeds of the agency,” said BRT team leader sponse Team was where I wanted to be,” exclaimed Patron.

Master Deputy Chris DePolis.

Being able to intertwine your career and The BRT conducts a 12-hour training session once a month and may train any- hobbies is a dream.

“It means the world to me to be able to where within the confines of Hillsborough service my community in a capacity that County.

Tryouts to join the team were held on allows me to do what I love,” said Bergher.

For more information on the HCSO BiJune 23. Master Deputy Tim Berg, Deputy Benjamin Bergher, Deputy Alex Patron and cycle Response Team, go to teamhcso.com.

It takes a speCaliph mencial person to tioned how Dr. Pizdedicate one’s life zo inspired him to towards developbecome a better ing a bond with version of himself. someone while “Pizzo is an exportraying specifcellent role modic qualities such el,” Caliph said. as commitment “I hope that one and caring for the day I can inspire well-being of that someone to do individual. These something great certain characas Pizzo has done teristics describe for me.”

Dr. Anthony Pizzo, Dr. Pizzo got who won Hillsborinvolved with beough Education coming a mentor Foundation’s 2021 at the Hillsborough Mentor of the Education FoundaYear. tion through the Through Hillrecommendation sborough Edu- Dr. Anthony Pizzo, Hillsborough Education Founda- of his childhood cation Founda- tion’s 2021 Mentor of the Year, and his mentee, Caliph. friend. He considers tion’s Take Stock in Children program, it being a good listener as the key to a qualprovides a mentor devoted to supporting ity mentor. He stated that mentoring Caa student’s future and academic success liph has given him a new appreciation and and much more. The mentors there also insight into a much younger generation, serve as trustworthy role models, giving which differed from his own. emotional support and guidance in each “I hold pride in knowing that my menstudent’s life. For the past five years, Dr. tor won the Hillsborough Education FounPizzo was paired up with Caliph, who dation’s 2021 Mentor of the Year,” Caliph graduated from East Bay High School’s said. “Not only is Pizzo my mentor, but class of 2021. Dr. Pizzo began mentoring also my friend,” he added.

Caliph when he was in the eighth grade This upcoming school year, Hillsborough and remained by his side even through Education Foundation is looking for mensome of the challenges that Caliph once tors. People who are interested in giving faced but overcame. the gift of their time and volunteering to “Navigating these obstacles as a team mentor can visit educationfoundation. has formed a bond between us and hope- com/mentor-a-student to sign up. fully has given him a model to find sucFor more information, visit https://educess in the future,” Dr. Pizzo said. cationfoundation.com.

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Page 28

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

TAMPA PARKS RECEIVE RECOGNITION FROM USA TODAY READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS WITH FIVE TOP-TEN HONORS Staff Report

Guests can enjoy Summer Nights at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay through Monday, September 6. Roller coaster fans can take on their favorite thrill rides in the dark, enjoy electrifying entertainment, bite into seasonal eats and see the park’s biggest and brightest fireworks show, ‘Spark!

A Nighttime Spectacular,’ on weekends through September 6.

Visit again and again with a Busch Gardens Fun Card, where guests can pay for a After weeks of public votday and play all year. For the ing, Tampa’s premier theme price of a single-day ticket parks have been recognized to Busch Gardens, the Fun among the best in the counCard allows access throughBusch Gardens was recently recogtry in USA TODAY’s 10Best out the year, so guests can nized among the best in the country Readers’ Choice Travel in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ visit again and again and Awards. As chosen by the experience great events like Choice Travel Awards. nation’s readers, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Summer Nights, Bier Fest, Christmas Town and Adventure Island have placed in the and more. For the best value and benefits, country’s 10 best lists for the following cat- guests can upgrade to a Bronze, Silver, Gold egories: Best Amusement Park (number six), or Platinum Annual Pass to enjoy the perks Best Outdoor Water Park (number eight), they want most throughout 2021. Annual Best Roller Coaster (Montu—number sev- Pass Members receive 12 months of visits en) and Best Amusement Park Restaurant with the best benefits ever, including free (Zambia Smokehouse—number three). parking, up to six free guest tickets and up The parks were nominated for the awards to 50 percent savings on merchandise, Quick by a panel of relevant experts, including edi- Queue and more. Annual Pass Members and tors from USA TODAY, editors from 10best. Fun Card holders also get special discounts com and theme park connoisseurs. For Bus- for the best deals on Howl-O-Scream, startch Gardens and Adventure Island, the five ing at $24.99 for a limited time.

2021 awards are the most the parks have Guests can visit www.buschgardenstamever received in a single year from the annu- pa.com to purchase tickets, Follow on Faceal competition. book, Twitter and Instagram.

Volume 16, Issue 8

PEREZ MAKES DIRECTORIAL DEBUT WITH BLACK SAI MOVIE

By Libby Hopkins

By day, Derrick Perez young creatives. I am wellof Lithia is a certified versed in screenwriting, Guardian ad Litem for the shooting video and graph13th Judicial Circuit and ic design and can manage works with more than 17 any project, big or small.” children in care. He also This film brings awareworks as a family coach ness to human traffickwith Finally Home Adoping and tackles the issue tion Agency and has done of overcoming trauma. contract work with the “What I like most about Sylvia Thomas Center as this film is the team of well as Child Proindividuals behind tective Services and Lithia resident Derrick Perez made his directorial it. We are a massive Safe At Home PAS- debut on July 14 at Xscape Theatres Riverview 14 group of minority CO. By evening and filmmakers in the with the release of his new film, Black Sai. weekends, dependarea coming togething on production scheduler to make opportunities ing, he is a film director, profor ourselves to grow ducer, writer and actor. and tell bigger stories.

Perez made his directoMy hope for this film is to rial debut on July 14 at Xslaunch my new universe cape Theatres Riverview 14 that I am building as well with the release of his new as build a fanbase in the film, Black Sai. “As a young community and bring Tampa native, I have made more film and television filmmaking my passion; that opportunities to the Tamstarted with my younger pa Bay area,” said Perez. self watching the ‘behind Perez’s film brings the scenes’ content of my faawareness to human vorite films,” Perez said. “At trafficking and tackles the age of 23, I already have the issue of overcoming over a decade of experience shooting mul- trauma. “What I like most about this film tiple commercials, documentaries, features is the team of individuals behind it,” Perez and short films.” said. “We are a massive group of minority Black Sai is about a very young Marissa filmmakers in the area coming together to Vasquez, who is tragically orphaned when make opportunities for ourselves to grow two men break into her home and gun and tell bigger stories. My hopes for this down her family. She is immediately filled film is to launch my new universe that I am with feelings of revenge and questions. “I building as well as build a fan base in the hope to make a difference through my sto- community and bring more film and televirytelling and other creative works,” Perez sion opportunities to the Tampa Bay Area.” said. “I even founded my high school’s first If you’d like to learn more about Perez’s film club, which has already inspired other film, Black Sai, visit www.gotchafilms.com.

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

August 2021

2021 HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIR ISSUES A CALL TO ARTISTS FOR BOTH FINE ARTS AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BROADWAY MAKES A RETURN TO TAMPA THIS OCTOBER comedy film of the same name.

The award-winning Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, Cats, will hit the stage Tuesday, December 7 through Sunday, December 12.

Then, bring in the new year with a jukebox musical, Summer: The Don-

Broadway shows are coming back at the Straz Center in Tampa this October. You can see a variety of shows and musicals, including The Prom, which will be in Tampa next year in February.

After a long period of being closed or only holding small locally produced shows due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (The Straz Center) has announced their upcoming Broadway season. Performances of Broadway shows will begin in October. Attendees should check with The Straz Center regarding on site restrictions and ticket pricing.

Judy Lisi is the president and CEO of the Straz Center, a nonprofit arts organization. Lisi said, “It has been a long intermission, but we are excited for the return of touring Broadway to Tampa. We have put together a remarkable season that includes a couple of welcome surprises along with a few shows that were postponed from early 2020 due to the pandemic and a number of shows originally announced for the 2020-21 slate.”

Lisi added, “It is a season of blockbusters, audience favorites, award winners and classics. This lineup truly is the best of Broadway.”

The Straz Center will begin with the musical comedy Tootsie from Tuesday, October 26 through Sunday, October 31.

Tootsie is based on the 1982 American

na Summer Musical. This will be in Tampa from Tuesday, January 1, 2022 through Sunday, January 16, 2022.

Winner of six Tony Awards, including Winner for Best Musical, Dear Evan Hansen, will come to Tampa from Tuesday, February 1, 2022 through Sunday, February 6, 2022. Dear Evan Hansen is also a 2018 GRAMMY Award winner for Best Musical Theatre Album.

The Straz Center will offer the musical The Prom from Tuesday, February 15, 2022 through Sunday, February 20, 2022.

Next, the Disney hit Frozen will be in Tampa from Wednesday, March 23, 2022 through Sunday, April 3, 2022.

My Fair Lady closes out the 2021-22 season when it comes to Tampa from Tuesday, April 26, 2022 through Sunday, May 1, 2022.

The Straz Center is located at 1010 N. Macinnes Pl. in downtown Tampa. To get more information on Broadway shows, times, tickets and availability, please visit www.strazcenter.org or call 229-7827.

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Page 29

Residents of Hillarts. Awards are givsborough County en based on theme, young and old who design, composition, have an artistic flair mastery of medium, or like to take photechnique and pretographs are ensentation. couraged to submit PHOTOGRAPHY/ entries for the 2021 MIXED MEDIA Hillsborough County P H O TO G R A P H Y Fair Fine Arts Show COMPETITION and the Photography/ The PhotograMixed Media Photog- Residents of Hillsborough County are encouraged phy/Mixed Media raphy Competition. to enter the Hillsborough County Fine Arts Show Photography ComThe fair runs from and/or the Photography/Mixed Media Photogra- petition is open to Thursday, September phy Competition at this year’s fair. You could win both youth (Ele23 through Sunday, a ribbon, and Best of Show winners will have the mentary, grades chance to showcase their work at the Brandon October 3. This year’s first to fifth; MidRegional Library. theme is ‘From Wagdle, grades sixth to on Wheels to Ferris eighth; and High Wheels.’ The Hillsborough County Fair is lo- School, grades ninth to 12th) and adults 18 cated at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. years and older. Participants can enter two You can preregister your entry for either pieces per class in photography (black and the Fine Arts Show or the Photography/ white, color and digital). Only one piece can Mixed Media Photography Competition by be entered in photography/mixed media. visiting www.hillsborough.fairwire.com. Do Photographs must be 8”x10” and must be so by Wednesday, September 1, and you will matted on single weight white mat board. receive one free admission ticket to the fair Finished size must be 11”x14”. They must (per person, not per entry). Completed forms be securely mounted on a black board with can be mailed to Hillsborough County Fair, a window. Mixed media/photography must Visual Arts, P.O. Box 100, Sydney, FL 33587. contain two or more media in addition to All entries must be hand-delivered to the photography. The entry must be framed and fairgrounds on Friday, September 17 from ready to hang using screw eyes and wire 5-8 p.m. or Saturday, September 18 from only.

2-6 p.m.

Prizes will be awarded for youth and adults There is no entry fee. You can download in each category. Judging is based on visual the entry form and review the rules at www. impact, composition, quality and appeal. hillsboroughcountyfair.com.

Photographs taken with film and processed FINE ARTS SHOW in a darkroom will be judged on proper conFine Arts Show entries must be original trast and light control. No software may be and not be more than two years old. There used to enhance photographs except to reare four divisions—Elementary (grades first move red eyes and crop. to fifth); Middle (grades sixth to eighth); High All entrants must verify that all photoSchool (grades ninth to 12th); and Adults 18 graphs were taken and all work was done years and older. There are four mediums for within the last 12 months. fine arts—oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed Both the Fine Arts Show and the Photogmedia. You may enter up to three pieces. All raphy/Mixed Media Photography Competipieces should have appropriately installed tion are great ways for Hillsborough County screws and wires for framed entries and be residents to share their creativity with the ready to hang. community. Chastity White with the HillsAwards are given for first place, second borough County Fair said, “Residents young place, third place and Best of Show. To win and old should enter the County Fair shows Best of Show, you must go above and beyond and competitions because it is a chance to the standard level of craftsmanship. Best of put their creativity and talent on display.”

Show winners may have the opportunity to White added, “It is a chance for their masshowcase their entries at the Brandon Re- terpiece to take home a ribbon, and who gional Library. does not like to win?”

The judges are qualified to judge visual

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Page 30

Expires Sept. 15, 2021

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

August 2021

Page 31

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NIKI MOORE

U18 WEST FLORIDA FLAMES SOCCER CLUB WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP & SOUTHERN REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS On May 23, the U18 West Florida Flames (WFF) boys soccer team out of Brandon secured their second consecutive Florida Youth State Championship after winning in Auburndale.

On June 17, they then travelled to Greenville, South Carolina to compete in the USYS Southern Regional Championships, which consisted of the best teams in the 11 southern states. They went undefeated and were crowned champions in the U18 bracket after winning six games over seven days, a first for the club. The team is now ranked fourth in the nation.

On June 17, the West Florida Flames travelled to Greenville, South Carolina to compete in the USYS Southern “When we won states, it was still Regional Championships, which they won. a huge achievement for us, being the challenge, but rather raised their have been more than my teammates; back-to-back state champs, something level and exceeded expectations, which we’ve all grown together as a family and that has never been done before in WFF led us to the gold. I really have to hand accomplished so much together.” history,” said left back and team capGangwer, who was also the team capit to my players because they all stepped tain Spencer Gangwer. “Everyone on the tain for the George Jenkins High School up to the plate in states and regionals.” team knew that we had only just begun The majority of this group have played varsity soccer team in Lakeland, will atour journey. Winning regionals was a together for five years under Head tend Florida State University (FSU) to whole different feeling—it was someCoach Juan Garcia, and many of them study mechanical engineering and plans thing that none of us had ever experihave committed to playing college soc- on playing for the FSU club soccer team enced before, and when the final whistle with Almond, who also plans on attendcer. blew, the feeling was just surreal. When “To accomplish something of this level ing FSU. Almond was a four-year startwe faced adversity in states and regionwith my team meant the world to me,” er for the Newsome High School varsity als, not a single player shied away from said defender Matt Almond. “These guys soccer team and was a team captain his

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senior year.

“The thing I will miss most about West Florida Flames is the environment where everyone continuously pushes each other, whether it be the coaches pushing us to get better or even the players helping the coaches better themselves as well,” said Almond. “The club has an incredible positive learning atmosphere.”

Gangwer, Almond and their teammates have left a mark on the West Florida Flames soccer club for years to come. Gangwer will take away a lot from this experience and will miss playing with his teammates.

“To win states and regionals was a huge accomplishment, both for our team and the club. We have left a legacy at the club and helped put it on the map,” said Gangwer. “As a captain, I could not be more proud of this team and everything we had overcome during the season. To my team—thank you for believing in our visions and making them a reality.

I will never forget the times we had both on and off the field. Each and every one of you will be my brothers for life, and I could not be more proud to call you my teammates.”

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 16, Issue 8