Brandon/Winthrop 25-33
37
March 2022
Volume 17, Issue 3
Ph: 657-2418
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
BAYCARE EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH FEEDING TAMPA BAY, OPENS HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER
Staff Report
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
By Lily Belcher
Nativity Catholic Church’s Men’s Club is hosting its annual fish fry to serve seafood meals to its parishioners and community throughout Lent. As part of the fasting during Lent, the community is called to fast from meat on Fridays, so the fish fry provides 500-600 fish, shrimp and pizza meals each week to encourage the fast. “It really is an event for the parishioners to come out and have Nativity’s Life Teen a good meal and sit group assist the Men’s and chat and get to Club each week, servtalk to their fellow ing different roles to parishioners,” said support the event. Don Waters with The Men’s Club is rethe Men’s Club. sponsible for cooking On Friday evethe food and collectnings from 4:30-7 ing money from guest, p.m., 40-45 volunthe Boy Scouts serve teers from three the meals in the dinNativity organiing room and provide zations serve the desserts and the Life meals in the Social Teen group assists in Hall for $9 for fish the kitchen by plator pizza and $10 for ing and preparing the shrimp. The moncooked food. ey collected helps This year’s fish fry is support the organithe first in two years zations and allows Nativity Catholic Church’s Men’s Club is after it was cancelled them to continue hosting its annual fish fry to serve seafood in 2020 and 2021 due to give back to the meals to its parishioners and community to the coronavirus. To Nativity parish. protect their guests, throughout Lent. “It really is a all servers and chefs ministry of the parish. It creates a lot of are wearing gloves and face masks while fellowship among parishioners and a lot handling the food. Condiments are also of parishioners do love it because they prepackaged to reduce sharing food get to come to the Social Hall and have items and opened bowls. a meal with their fellow parishioners and Nativity Catholic Church is located at friends,” explained Waters. 705 E. Brandon Blvd. and can be reached Each week, Nativity’s Social Hall is at 681-4608. filled with families and their children, often students at Nativity Catholic School, who can socialize with their friends. NaBEYOND VAN GOGH..............................PG 3 tivity’s congregation is given the opportunity to dine with the other members BSHS RED LETTER ............................. PG 15 PG 23 of their church community, united by the ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT fast during the season of Lent. EYE ON BUSINESS ..........................PGS 38 Boy Scouts of America Troop 89 and
IN THIS ISSUE:
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Tucked inside one’s health is sigthe massive innificantly harder, dustrial wareand no medical house home of intervention can Feeding Tampa compensate for Bay, guests, what we need staff and volunfirst: good and teers now have dependable actheir own dedcess to food.” icated BayCare BayCare began Health Educafocusing much BayCare has teamed up with Feeding Tampa Bay to open a dedicated BayCare Health Education Center in Feeding tion Center. of its communiTampa Bay’s warehouse. The first of ty benefit effort its kind, the fatoward food incility reflects security after the BayCare’s com2019 Community mitment to adHealth Needs Asdressing the sessment found c o m m u n i t y ’s great need across health holistithe four counties cally. The cenit serves: Hillster will serve as borough, Pinellas, a resource for Polk and Pasco. visitors to FeedThat focus came ing Tampa Bay into even sharper to live healthier lives, including offering relief with the onset of the COVID-19 panhealth education materials, a Higi Station demic when Feeding Tampa Bay and othfor self-monitoring general health and a ers service agencies reported significant private area for personal consultations. spikes in demand for food. BayCare also will offer health and wellness Food insecurity is now BayCare’s prievents targeted to those served in this mary focus for community outreach, from unique location. immediate investment in food for those in “We are thrilled to have BayCare’s part- need to adopting systemic changes that nership and presence here in the food should help all patients get their nutritionbank,” said Thomas Mantz, president and al needs met. Feeding Tampa Bay, with a CEO of Feeding Tampa Bay. “This new fa- footprint that matches BayCare’s service cility is an investment in our community’s area, is a natural partner in this work. long-term health, starting with nutrition, “Data has really driven our plans, and our which is essential for overall wellness. We research clearly indicates a tremendous all know food equals health, and this effort amount of food insecurity throughout our is a huge step forward for our community.” region,” said Keri Eisenbeis, BayCare’s vice BayCare CEO Tommy Inzina agrees, president of government and community noting at the ribbon-cutting event that no relations. “BayCare’s clinical background amount of medication can compensate for paired with Feeding Tampa Bay’s food exhunger or poor nutrition. pertise creates a unique opportunity to re“Any health care professional will tell ally improve the community’s health.” you that food is the first medicine,” Inzina Visit www.baycare.org and https://feedsaid. “Without good nutrition, maintaining ingtampabay.org/.
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Hillsborough County Public Schools recently announced Building Tampa’s Tomorrow. District leaders will continue to develop our existing career and technical education programs in other schools to ensure all programs are preparing students for high-demand careers in fields the students desire. Full article on page 9.
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Page 2
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
BEYOND VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE COMES TO SARASOTA By Michelle Caceres Prolific impreshelps us understand sionist artist Vincent there was more to van Gogh’s innovathe painter than his tive works, numpoor mental health. bering more than “He saw beauty in or2,000 pieces creatdinary life and painted during a career ed those things,” she that spanned just said. “Art was the 10 years, are scatway he communicattered in museums ed with the world.” and private collecCurtat said the extions throughout hibit is wonderful for the world. One of his all ages. “In the Immost famous works, mersive Room, chilThe Starry Night, dren are engaged as inspired by the view they follow the petfrom his window at als as they float on an asylum in Souththe floor,” she said. ern France, is on per“It’s impactful to see manent display at Tickets are on sale now for Beyond Van Gogh: them connecting to The Immersive Experience in Sarasota until the Museum of Modart in this way.” Sunday, April 24. ern Art in New York. Beyond Van Gogh, Producer Paquin Entertainment Group is which runs through Sunday, April 24 is bringing more than 300 of his 19th-centu- open Sunday to Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., ry masterpieces into the 21st century in an and Friday to Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. It immersive way at ‘Beyond Van Gogh: The takes about an hour to experience the enImmersive Experience,’ which takes the art tire exhibit, with final entry being one hour lover into a three-dimensional world that before closing time. exhilarates the senses. Tickets are not sold at the door but can Located at 195 University Town Center be purchased online at www.vangoghsaraDr. in Sarasota at the Starry Night Pavilion sota.com. Ticket prices start at $23.99 for at University Town Center, Van Gogh’s art children under 16 and $29.99 for adults. comes to life by appearing and disappear- Children 4 years and younger can enter the ing, flowing across multiple surfaces and show for free with an accompanying adult heightening the senses with their immense with a ticket. detail. Through his own words set to a Exercise enthusiasts can also participate symphonic score, guests come to a new ap- in Beyond Yoga, where local yoga instrucpreciation of this tortured artist’s stunning tors each Thursday and Saturday guide works as they segue through three areas: participants through a class while in the the Education Room, the Waterfall Room exhibit’s Immersive Experience Room. and the Immersive Experience Room. For more information about Beyond According to art historian and creative Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, call team member Fanny Curtat, the experience 1-800-441-0819.
Page 3
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY AGING SERVICES PARKING LOT BINGO CELEBRATES BLACK HERITAGE MONTH
By Tatiana Ortiz
The harmonious ing Lot Bingo event sound of a violin reswas held in Septemonated outside the ber 2020. Since then, Hillsborough County this specific themed Aging Services Branevent would continue don Senior Center each month unless the during its Parking COVID-19 rates were Lot Bingo and celehigh. bration of Black HerDaphne Fields, a itage Month, which Hillsborough County occurred on February Aging Services client, 25. More than 60 Hillshared her thoughts sborough County Agabout this Parking Lot ing Services clients Bingo event that she had the opportunity attended: “It was a to hear Tampa vio- Hillsborough County Aging Services cli- happy occasion for me ents enjoying their time at the Parking Lot linist Omari Dillard that made my day as I Bingo and Black Heritage Month celebraperform a concert on tion event, which occurred on February 25 did participate in binthe premises there as at the Hillsborough County Aging Services go,” Fields said. “The well as participate in Hillsborough County Brandon Senior Center. bingo, line dancing and Aging Services does a a fashion show, all revery good job looking lated to the Black Herout after us as seniors.” itage Month theme. The Hillsborough Frances Duran Brea, County Aging Services general manager of offers a variety of serHillsborough County vices designed to enDepartment of Aging hance the lives of older Services, stated what adults ages 50 and over. the overall goal of the These services include Parking Lot Bingo events is: “To keep our active adult programming, referral serclients and older adults active and en- vices and in-home services to hot meals. gaged because we know how significant For those who qualify and the meet the social isolation is among seniors.” criteria, it provides door-to-door transDue to the COVID-19 pandemic in portation with Sunshine Line. March 2020, the Hillsborough County “I am grateful for all that the HillsborAging Services senior centers closed, ough County Aging Services does, espeand adjustments had to be made so that cially with transportation through Sunthe older adults and clients could still be shine Line,” Fields said. served. With months of planning, some Visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/ outdoor activities such as the Parking Lot government/departments/aging or call Bingo came into fruition. The first Park- 272-5250.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
March 2022
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The local communileaves behind, including ty will have a chance wife Mandy, a son and a to show its support to daughter. the family of deceased Some of those inTampa Police Officer volved with Back the Matthew McNeal by Line Charity Events participating in an have family or close ties 18-hole charity golf to the first responder tournament, promoted community and their as the Back the Line understanding of what First Annual Golf Toura public safety career nament, on Saturday, involves provides motiApril 2 at Summerfield vation to help others. Crossings Golf Club in “They give their lives Riverview. to the community and McNeal died of A charity golf tournament will be held to it’s something I’ve albrain cancer at age support the family of Tampa Police Offi- ways wanted to do,” 34 on January 2 and cer Matthew McNeal, who died of cancer said Founder of Back at the beginning of the year. McNeal had been an officer the Line Charity Events served on TPD’s bike unit. with TPD since 2014. Heather Cropper, who He was a member of the grew up in Valrico and played department’s Special Opergolf at Durant High School. ations Unit’s Bicycle OperBesides the golf tournament, ations and Response Team the Back the Line event will and earned two Life Saving include ticket drawings with Awards, an Excellent Duty prizes and dinner. Award, a Community PolicSummerfield Crossings ing Award and a Unit CitaGolf Club is located at 13050 tion during his service as a Summerfield Blvd., one mile police officer, according to east of U.S. 301, in Riverview. a TPD Facebook post, which Tournament sign-in begins at also describes McNeal as 11:30 a.m., as do the silent auc“a kind and humble man, who loved being a tion and drawing of raffle and 50/50 tickpolice officer.” McNeal was born in Tampa ets; the shotgun start is at 1 p.m.; and dinand also served as a corrections officer with ner is at 5:30 p.m. The cost to play is $125 the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office af- per golfer or $400 for a team of four. The ter earning an Associate of Arts degree at deadline to register is Saturday, March 26, Hillsborough Community College. and paid sponsorship opportunities for the The event is being organized by Back the tournament are available. For more informaLine Charity Events and is sponsored by the tion, send an email to backthelinecharity@ Firemen’s Benevolent Association of the City gmail.com or visit the Back the Line Charity of Tampa. According to organizers, the funds Events Facebook page @BackTheLineCharraised will go entirely to the family McNeal ityEvents.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
HCC INSTITUTE FOR CORPORATE AND CONTINUING EDUCATION IS HOSTING CAREER FAIR ON APRIL 1 Staff Report pa Bay will be present to help inform job seekers of the resources and services available through their network. The Institute for Corporate and Continuing Education is Hillsborough Community College’s corporate training arm that provides Hillsborough Community College’s (HCC) Institute for Corporate customized business soluand Continuing Education (ICCE) will be hosting an in-person tions for local companies and career fair on Friday, April 1 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon at HCC’s Corindividuals. porate Training Center located at 39 Columbia Dr. in Tampa. Hillsborough Community College serves more than Hillsborough Community College’s (HCC) 42,000 students annually at its five camInstitute for Corporate and Continuing Edpuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For ucation (ICCE) will be hosting an in-person more information, visit hccfl.edu. career fair on Friday, April 1 from 9 a.m.-12 Hillsborough Community College is acNoon at HCC’s Corporate Training Center locredited by the Southern Association of cated at 39 Columbia Dr. in Tampa. Colleges and Schools Commission on ColThe career fair is free and open to the leges (SACSCOC) to award associate depublic. Job seekers interested in participatgrees. Questions about the accreditation of ing must register prior to the event. Hillsborough Community College may be “Career fairs give us an opportunity to serve as the bridge between local employers and our students,” said Gaby Delismé, business intelligence manager of ICCE. “Our goal is to help directed in writing to the Southern Associconnect the right candidates with the right ation of Colleges and Schools Commission employers. At our last event, companies in- on Colleges at 1866 Southern Ln. in Decaterviewed and hired job seekers on the spot. tur, Georgia, by calling 404-679-4500 or by We’re doing our part to help build a sustain- using information available on SACSCOC’s website at www.sacscoc.org. able workforce.” For an updated list of participating emJob seekers can expect to connect with ployers and to sign up for the job fair event, local companies to fill open positions in the please visit tampatraining.com/career-rehealth care, information technology, trade source. and business industries. CareerSource Tam-
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Volume 17, Issue 3
SUPERINTENDENT RECOMMENDS BUS DRIVER PAY INCREASE TO COMBAT SHORTAGE By Superintendent Addison Davis Our parents and families have faced a multitude of challenges as our community acclimates to the impacts of COVID-19. One of the more unexpected side effects of the worldwide pandemic has been a crippling labor shortage facing multiple industries across our nation. Our educational system has unfortunately not been immune to this development. Parents in Hillsborough County Public Schools are keenly aware that this district is contending with a critical shortage of bus drivers. These hardworking and dedicated individuals are the backbone of our district, and without them our exceptional educators would not be able to change the lives of our learners. However, it has always been a challenge to recruit and retain bus drivers. In fact, in other states this year, the National Guard has been called in to drive children to school because they simply do not have enough people to fill the positions. Hillsborough County Public Schools is currently in need of approximately 130 bus drivers, which means those currently driving are performing double and triple runs to ensure students make it to school safely. Unfortunately, this creates angst for our learners and families as they experience delays both to and from school.
It is for this reason I made the recommendation to our school board to raise the hourly rate for our bus drivers from $14.57 to $16.04 per hour. This will represent one of the highest pay rates in the state for bus drivers, which we in turn anticipate will help to alleviate a shortage while recruiting and retaining more highly qualified individuals to transport our learners to and from school. I want to remind our community that bus drivers have been on the front lines since the pandemic began. These talented and passionate individuals did not have the opportunity to work from home as they drove food and academic materials to families while our brick-and-mortar schools were closed. They deserve our respect and appreciation for the difficult work they have performed. This initiative will also impact veteran drivers who will receive a well-deserved raise from their current salaries. This move will not only strengthen our transportation department; my hope is that your family will see a noticeable difference with time as we work diligently to combat these complex issues. Bus drivers are often the first smiling face a student encounters as their school day begins. We are excited to welcome new and highly qualified individuals to the HCPS family to make a difference in children’s lives every day.
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March 2022
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CONGRESSMAN BUCHANAN ANNOUNCES MONTEL HONORS RIVERVIEW VETS WITH MILITARY MAKEOVER SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATIONS By Michelle Caceres By Sharon Still
Montel Williams opened the door to show the Clarke family a completely redesigned home after his Military Makeover team did its magic for these selfless veterans.
The Military Makeover with Montel TV show, led by Montel Williams, a veteran of both the Marine Corps and the Navy, came into town recently, and for six days, contractors, designers and volunteers worked feverishly to give a makeover to the Riverview home of veterans Kari and Adam Clarke and their two sons. Family, friends, neighbors, volunteers and the East Bay High School Junior ROTC Color Guard gathered as the rain poured steadily, awaiting the family’s arrival for the big reveal. Military Makeover co-host Art Edmonds proclaimed, “This is all about community. Rain, cold, wind—nothing could stop us.” Williams’ Military Makeover show seeks out deserving veterans and does a complete design renovation on their home as a way of offering a helping hand and saying “thank you.” “This is our 29th season,” said Williams. “We are proud to making a forever home for a two-veteran family.” “She is so deserving,” said Kristine Dugas about her sister, Kari. “She is always helping others.” From landscaping and new paint outside to
new lighting, appliances, furniture, artwork and even a cat tree to entertain their fuzzy feline, the house had a whole new flair and function. Additionally, the Clarkes received a hyperbaric chamber from Grunt Style, which will aid in Kari’s autoimmune disease. “That is really exciting and very helpful,” said Kari. “We are so glad they like it,” remarked co-host Lacey Evans at the big reveal. “Our whole team nailed their personality.” After meeting at The Veterans Administration hospital, Kari and Adam found that their similar experiences brought them closer together. Both served as army sergeants in different areas and saw the horror of the front line in war, losing close friends, cheating death and encountering horrific situations that would stay with them for life. The aftereffects of an accident during training left Kari with several herniated discs in her spine and being diagnosed with auto-immune disease, forcing her to medically retire long before she hoped to end her military career. Though both Adam and Kari continue to battle their emotional and physical scars, and they spend their time giving back and supporting others. Kari serves as president of Post 9/11 Veterans, an organization in Tampa that focuses on integrating the community together with returning veterans. Many volunteers and businesses throughout the community donated their time and products during the six-day shoot, including Chill Cawfee, Lowe’s of Riverview, Bath Fitters, SERVPRO of Brandon/Riverview and others. Smith & Steele Design served as general contractors throughout the entire project. Nominations for Military Makeover can be made at www.mililtarymakeover.tv. The Clarke family’s show aired on Lifetime on March 11.
Newsome High seed States Nanior Alexander Fraga val Academy; faced a dilemma. While Marion Military sitting in AP MacroInstitute cadet economics class he Francis Connor glanced at his cellphone Dias of Lithia and noticed an email to the United had come across from States Military Congressman Vern BuAcademy and chanan’s office. The moUnited States ment had arrived when Naval AcadeCongressman Vern Buchanan made 22 nominahe would find out if he my; Newsome tions to four U.S. service academies. had received a nominaHigh School stution to the United State Merchant Marine dents Colby Prince to the United States NaAcademy, his dream school. val Academy, Matthew Iocco to the United He had to decide whether to open it or States Naval Academy and Cody Basquill to wait until he was home with his family. the United States Air Force Academy; and “I saw a smiley face emoji in the title of U.S. Air Force Academy Prep School cathe email and just couldn’t wait,” he said. dets Ryan Matthews of Riverview, Yaideliz Fraga opened the email, and then he Lorenzo-Mendoza of Ruskin and Axeladiel smiled. He had earned the nomination. “I Zengotita of Lithia to the United States was just so excited and trying not to disrupt Air Force Academy. Former United States class,” Fraga said. Air Force Academy cadet Spencer Caceres, In all, Buchanan made 22 nominations to who left to serve a two-year church misthe four U.S. service academies: the U.S. Air sion in Mexico, also received a nomination Force, Merchant Marine, Military and Naval for re-entry to the United States Air Force Academies. Unlike other service academies, Academy. the Coast Guard Academy does not require The nominees’ names are forwarded to a congressional nomination for admission. the service academies where they were Applicants who meet strict qualifications nominated. are interviewed and recommended by a “Here in Florida’s 16th district, we are nonpartisan service academy board ap- fortunate to have so many driven and coupointed by the congressman. rageous students willing to serve in our In addition to Fraga, other local nomi- armed forces,” said Buchanan. “Each of the nees include: Bell Creek Academy students nominees is deserving of the privilege of atSebastian Correa to the United State Mil- tending one of our nation’s prestigious seritary Academy and Matthew Martinez to vice academies. I wish each of my nominees the United States Air Force Academy and the best of luck throughout the remainder United States Naval Academy; Durant High of the selection process and look forward to School student Austin Holcomb to the Unit- their future success.” ed States Air Force Academy; Sumner High For more info about Congressman BuSchool student David Tirado-Alonzo to the chanan or the Service Academy nomination United States Military Academy and Unit- process, visit www.buchanan.house.gov.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
STUDENTS’ AWARD-WINNING ART & WRITING ARE FEATURED IN ANNUAL REGIONAL COMPETITION By Kathy L. Collins Each year, thou“Right now, with sands of students all our students are from across the facing, it is more country compete in important than ever the Scholastic Art to have an escape in & Writing Awards. their work to reflect Locally, the compeon what is going tition is presented on in the world and by Suncoast Credit express their views Union and hosted through their art by Hillsborough Edand through their Hillsborough Education Foundation and Hillucation Foundation sborough County Public Schools are proud to writing,” said Jowell. (HEF) and Hillsbor- present an exhibition featuring the works of Hill- “HEF is proud to help ough County Public sborough County students who submitted works shine a spotlight on Schools. This year, of art and writing at the annual Hillsborough this platform, and you can view the County Region Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. we congratulate all works of the rethe talented stugional competitors online at dents who pour their hearts educationfoundation.com/ out through their art or writ2022scholasticartandwritining and share their creative gawards.com. masterpieces with us,” added Their works are currently Jowell. on display at Scarfone/HartMultiple students are selectley Gallery, located at 310 ed at the regional level. Five North Blvd. in Tampa. are from the Gold Key Art Awards for the This year, there were more than 1,200 American Visions Award and five are from student submissions. The regional judges the Gold Key Writing Awards for the Amerhad the tough task of narrowing them down ican Visions Award. A national jury selects to 231 art awards and 95 writing awards. one from each for the Hillsborough Region The works from Hillsborough County’s 70 American Vision Award in March. Gold Key winners will be submitted to the The 2022 American Visions Nominees are Alliance for Young Artists & Writers in New Emma Holmes, Blake High School; Brianna York City. Students will have the opportuni- Lee, Wharton High School; Jorge Rodriguez, ty to compete at the national level and be Tampa Preparatory School; Katy Shonka, recognized in a ceremony this summer. Berkeley Preparatory School; and Sabrine “Every year, we look forward to support- Warid, Spoto High School. ing this event and showcasing the talents of The 2022 American Voices Nominees are our young artists and writers. This is an in- Rachel Galpin, Steinbrenner High School; Iscredible opportunity for students to display abelle Hoofnagel, Durant High School; and their work and be recognized for their cre- three students from Berkeley Preparatory ativity,” said Hillsborough Education Foun- School, Aryana Makati, Edward Sieh and dation CEO Kim Jowell. Annabel Stifler.
Volume 17, Issue 3
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE TAMPA BAY LOOKING FOR RAINFALL OBSERVERS
By Brad Stager
As the cool, future projects. The dry Florida wininformation is also ter gives way to helpful to the NWS the balmy winds during major rain of spring, the daievents like hurrily chance of rainy canes and tropical weather increasstorms and can es. The amount of be more accurate precipitation that than weather rafalls on the area dars that actually is something the only provide rainfall National Weather estimates and are Service (NWS) likes Photo courtesy of the US National Weather Service Tampa subject to calibrato track, so it is reBay Florida Facebook page. tion errors. cruiting volunteer A rainbow frames weather radar facilities at the Na- Austen Flannery weather watchers tional Weather Service Tampa Bay office in Ruskin. is the NWS Tamto help it do so. pa Bay CoCoRaHS Local residents with an incoordinator, and he said this is terest in the weather can join an opportunity for people with the NWS Tampa Bay office an interest in weather and cliin Ruskin’s rainfall monitoring matology to get involved in a efforts by becoming part of meaningful way. the Community Collaborative “CoCoRaHS data has proved Rain, Hail and Snow Network to be invaluable for building a (CoCoRaHS). The volunteer more complete picture of rainweather observers monitor fall patterns across the Tampa rainfall amounts on their propBay region. Reports are used erty and report the measurefor everything, from the evalments to the NWS via a secure uation of impacts associated online portal. There is no fee to participate, with tropical cyclones to continually improvbut volunteers may need to purchase a stan- ing our understanding of day-to-day rainfall dard four-inch, high-capacity rain gauge patterns in the summer months, to underthat costs around $30 if they do not already standing the severity of drought conditions possess one. The training required to proper- as they occur. The information not only ally collect and record rainfall is accomplished lows the National Weather Service to fulfill via a short training module that is complet- the Weather-Ready Nation vision, but it also ed online. allows our residents to engage in citizen sciThe data collected is used by the NWS ence, promoting service and stewardship in to supplement information provided by its the process.” array of high-tech weather monitoring sysYou can learn more about the NWS voltems and it is helpful to other agencies in unteer rainfall observer program by visiting the water business, such as the Southwest www.cocorahs.org, or you can send an email Water Management District, for planning to Flannery at austen.flannery@noaa.gov.
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Serving food all day. Menu-inspired. Crafted daily. 40 plus rotating craft brews on draft. Like us on Facebook for updated specials and draft beer offerings. Open 7 days a week @ 12pm
827 W Bloomingdale Ave, Brandon 813.655.4786
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TAMPA (813) 932-5327 1425 W. Busch Blvd.
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A wine-centric bar located in the heart of Brandon, FL. Come enjoy a glass or bottle of wine with friends, neighbors and family. Beautiful boards of cheese + charcuterie, along with small plates will enhance your time at the bin +board.
807 W Bloomingdale Ave, Brandon 813.438.5252
www.binandboard.com
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
HCPS ANNOUNCES NEW ACADEMIES FOR HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION
Staff Report
Hillsborough County The cutPublic Schools (HCPS), ting-edge in collaboration with Hillsborough industry leaders, has Construction announced an innovaAcademy tive plan to ensure the at Bowers/ workforce of tomorrow Whitley will will be prepared with the welcome necessary skills to have students disan exciting career pathtrict-wide in way after graduation. grades nine Students will be trained through 12. in state-of-the-art proOver the grams housed in highnext five to Hillsborough County Public Schools recently announced Building Tampa’s Tomorrow. tech, advanced facilities 10 years, through partnerships at local, state and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects national levels. faster-than-average employment growth Following extensive research and in-per- in the building and construction industry. son meetings with industry experts, edu- The district has been meeting with local cational advocates and civic leaders, Hill- industry experts to determine the most sborough County Public Schools recently in-demand careers that will, in many cases, announced Building Tampa’s Tomorrow. offer students high-paying jobs right after This new workforce development initia- graduation. Programs of study or industry tive will create two new high schools—the certifications will focus on areas including Hillsborough Medical Academy and the building construction, AC, refrigeration, Hillsborough Construction Academy, set to heating technology, electric vehicles, augopen in Fall 2023—and a Medical Technical mented reality/visualization, water infraCollege opening in Fall 2024. The district is structure/treatment and framing/drywall. also looking to add a distribution/logistics “Hillsborough County Public Schools educational pathway down the road. is answering the call to leverage a highThe state-of-the-art Hillsborough Medi- ly trained workforce that aligns with the cal Academy at D.W. Waters will serve stu- needs of employers in the Tampa Bay area. dents district-wide in ninth through 12th By creating the new Medical Academy, grade. HCPS is partnering with major hos- Construction Academy and the Medical pitals in the area, including Tampa General Technical College, all one-of-a-kind schools Hospital, BayCare, AdventHealth, Moffitt in our district, students will venture into Cancer Center and Ultimate Medical Acad- credentialing programs that will position emy, to discuss course programs that would them on an accelerated path towards a be most beneficial for a future workforce high-wage job or further study post-high as well as the type of equipment students school,” said Hillsborough County Public should train with during their courses. Stu- Schools Superintendent Addison Davis. dents will gain knowledge in specific proTo learn more, visit www.hillsboroughgrams of study or work towards industry. schools.org.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
LOCAL SINGER SONGWRITER KARINNA LANEE RELEASES FOURTH ORIGINAL SONG
By Kathy L. Collins
Karinna Lanee, time, I was reala resident of Vally struggling with rico and senior at my mental health. Blake High School I was doing school in Tampa, is a rising online, and I could s i n g e r- s o n g w r i t not go out or see er star. Lanee has my friends, and been offered the there was so much spotlight in many going on in the ways, including the world. I just felt opportunity to sing alone. So, I startthe national anthem ed writing about it. at Tampa Bay Rays The rest is history.” baseball games. The On “Breathe Unmost recent invite, der Water,” Lanee’s unfortunately, will brother, Nikolas have to wait until Crespo, accomthe Major League panied her as he Baseball lockout played the trumpet. has ended. “Breathe Under In addition to Water” was proMajor League Base- Despite being only a senior in high school, Val- duced by Nathan L. rico resident Karinna Lanee has released her ball, Lanee has been Mitchell, a local jazz fourth original song, “Breathe Under Water.” asked to sing the artist. national anthem at a Parkinson’s AwareLanee said, “I think there is so much ness event called Moving Day, which is power in writing. I write about everyon Saturday, April 30. This is a special thing. There is a lot happening in the one because Lanee will be walking with world, especially now, and it can be realher grandfather, who was recently diag- ly overwhelming. I find that music helps nosed with Parkinson’s. a lot more than we realize. My hope is Lanee has been featured in several lo- that at least one person out there can cal singing contests including Impact’s listen to my music and feel a little less Got Talent (second place) and Seffner’s alone.” Got Talent (first place). You can find Lanee’s music on multiLanee is busy throughout the year ple platforms, including Spotify, Youwriting and singing her original songs. Tube, iTunes and others. The YouTube Her most recent song is “Breathe Under link is https://www.youtube.com/ Water.” This is her fourth original song. watch?v=o8te_Wvpw4M. Lanee explained the inspiration for You can follow Lanee on various forms this piece. Lanee said, “I wrote ‘Breathe of social media using her handle @karUnder Water’ in May of 2021. At the innalanee.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
March 2022
DREW’S RV TECHS OFFERS SERVICE & SALES THAT CAN’T BE BEAT By Amy Schechter Do you own a recger. That way, you reational vehicle (RV) can try it out beand want to keep it fore you buy a unit. driving for years to Whether it’s for an come? Are you thinkawesome tailgate ing about purchasing or a cross-country or renting an RV? adventure, if you’re Drew’s RV Techs has ready to rent, trade what you need to keep in or buy, they have making memories and upfront pricing and having adventures. financing options to Family-owned and fit your budget. operated, Drew’s RV Drew’s RV Techs Techs boasts an exis also a business tensive inventory of sponsor with Critter pre-enjoyed RVs for Adoption and Ressale plus knowledgecue Effort (CARE), able and experienced Drew’s RV Techs offers a wide selection a local dog and cat technicians. Check rescue. Anklin, an of vehicles for sale and rent as well as out its competitive on-site repairs. Drew Anklin, owner and animal lover, doprices and person- operator, has over 30 years of experience nates much of his working on RVs. alized service that spare time and enbig-box stores ergy to support cannot compete their efforts in with. Drew Anproviding loving klin, owner and homes for resoperator with cued animals. He over 30 years and his shop cat, of experience Tux, would love working on and to see you and around RVs, will answer all your take on nearly questions about any repair. “We RVs. fix things other For more inpeople won’t. People come in with vehi- formation call 645-7870 or visit www. cles for which the manufacturer no lon- drewsrvtechs.com and www.cruiseamger makes the part. We make parts work erica.com/rv-rental-locations/florida/ and fabricate things so we can complete tampa. Drew’s RV Techs and Cruise the repair,” he said. America are located at 1601 S. U.S. Hwy. Plus, Drew’s RV Techs is perfect if 41 in Ruskin. It is open on weekdays, 8 you’re considering an RV. You can rent a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 a unit for a day, a week, a month or lon- Noon.
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CUSTOM HAIR TAMPA BAY HELPS CUSTOMERS REGAIN SELF-CONFIDENCE AFTER HAIR LOSS By Michelle Caceres Things often get ‘hairy’ the hair in place for at Custom Hair Tampa four to six weeks. Bay, but for this business “Wake up every that’s precisely the goal. morning with hair,” Owned by Dan and Lori said Lori. “Wash it, Younkman, Custom Hair swim with it and just Tampa Bay offers nonlive your life.” surgical solutions for men Her favorite part of and women with hair loss the process is when as a result of male and the hair system comes female-pattern baldness, in and customers see chemotherapy, transthe total transformaplants and burn scars, altion. opecia, autoimmune disFor Apollo Beach eases and other hair loss resident Jim Klein, his conditions. new hair has given him Located at 117 N. Kings increased self-confiAve. in Brandon, solutions dence. “I have the hair Owned by Dan and Lori Younkthat the Younkmans ofI used to have and man, Custom Hair Tampa Bay fer include 100 percent look so much younger,” Remy human hair wigs, offers nonsurgical solutions for men he said. and women with hair loss. toppers and custom hair Brandon resident solutions for men and women. Expert and longtime customer Susan Saylors, staff members are available to assist whose hair started thinning as a result of clients in choosing from its selection of lupus, echoed Klien about the increased wigs or one of its hair systems. self-confidence from her hair replace“We’re here to advise you every step of ment system. the way and walk you through the entire “Stylists at Custom Hair have given me process,” said Lori, who is not just the long hair, shorter hair, have changed the owner but also a customer. color,” said Saylors. “What’s great is it’s She understands exactly how a thick such a high quality that nobody knows head of hair can restore confidence. it’s not my own hair unless I tell them.” Customers meet with technicians in Custom Hair Tampa Bay has been private consultation rooms where their helping customers enjoy long, thick and heads are measured, hair color and tex- healthy hair worthy of a Pantene comture are matched and hair systems are mercial for more than 50 years. created to make each person look their Custom Hair Tampa Bay is open Tuesbest. day-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, Hair replacement systems are light- 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weight, breathable and secure thanks to For more information, visit www.custhe surgical-grade adhesive that holds tomhairtampabay.com or call 651-9484.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
WHEN IN DOUBT, CHECK IT OUT: HEARTBURN VS. HEART ATTACK
Staff Report
Lightheadedness or fainting Nausea Shortness of breath Vomiting If any of these symptoms come on suddenly, you should take them very seriously. Trust your body—it will tell you when something is seriously wrong.
Experts recommend not putting off calling an ambulance or heading to the emergency room when experiencing chest pain.
People often put off calling an ambulance or heading to the emergency room when they experience chest pain because they believe it’s something else, like indigestion or a pulled muscle. Every second counts because once the damage is done, it’s impossible to repair. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to chest pain or if your symptoms look like a cardiac event. Here are the symptoms to look for. Cardiac Event Symptoms Though chest pain is the most common symptom associated with a heart attack, cardiac events can also present in different ways. It can sometimes feel like it’s coming from your back, left arm, left shoulder, neck, jaw or even a tooth. You may also only feel pain in those other areas without any chest or back pain, but it will likely feel like it’s radiating from your chest or back. Symptoms to watch for: Clamminess or sweating Heart palpitations
Call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to drive yourself to the emergency department. The EMTs have life-saving skills that you may need on the way to the emergency department. Other Serious Conditions That Can Cause Chest Pain Many other non-life-threatening conditions and diseases can present in similar ways to a heart attack, but some are life-threatening and should also be treated as soon as possible by calling 911. Angina presents almost identically to a heart attack. Blood clots in your lung can also cause chest pain. Dissecting aneurysm is another life-threatening condition with similar pain. To find the AdventHealth emergency room location nearest to you, visit tampaerexperts.com.
Volume 17, Issue 3
SATIN & LACE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE OFFERS INTIMATE WEDDING DRESS APPOINTMENTS By Libby Hopkins Winthrop Town ting rooms for the Centre is known bride and her famfor its cool restauily so they can be rants, beautiful together for the homes and monthwhole finding-thely pop-up market, perfect-dress exbut among all this perience.” awesomeness is a Once the bridetrue hidden gem. to-be chooses her This hidden gem dress, she then is called Satin & gets to do a bridal Winthrop Town Centre is known for its cool Lace Bridal Bou- restaurants, beautiful homes and monthly pop- walk so her family tique, and Alison up market, but among all this awesomeness is can see her in her a true hidden gem. This hidden gem is called and Peter Farnan chosen dress. “We own it. “We’ve had Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique, and Alison and put a veil on her, Peter Farnan own it. various businesses give her a bouquet since 2006, but we [got] the bridal busi- of flowers and even play her wedding ness from a previous owner in 2018,” song as she does her bridal walk for her Alison said. “It was originally in another family to see,” Alison said. “No other location, but we totally renovated it and bridal shop does this for a bride shopbrought it to Winthrop.” ping for a wedding dress.” Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique is RivIf you ask Alison what her favorerview’s premiere bridal boutique. “We ite part of her job is, she’ll tell you it’s pride ourselves on making our brides working with the bride to find that perfeel special and making their dress fect dress. “I love educating the brides shopping an experience they will nev- on the perfect dress, and whether or not er forget,” Alison said. “Each bride re- they find their perfect dress at our shop, ceives a personalized shopping experi- we make them feel like a princess on the ence with her own private suite. We will day they are looking for their wedding share a celebratory champagne toast dress.” with them when they say ‘Yes’ to their If you’d like to learn more about Satdress. Our expert staff eagerly awaits in & Lace Bridal Boutique, you can visit our customers’ arrival and are dedicat- its website at www.satinandlacebridaled to making their experience private, boutique.com. You can also see some of stress-free and fun.” the boutique’s beautiful dresses on its The boutique has a dress for every Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ budget and style, and it will help its satinandlacebridalboutique. clients confidently say “Yes” to their The boutique is located at 11286 Suldress. “Our customer service and our livan St. in Riverview. If you would like experience is what makes us different,” to make a shopping appointment, you Alison said. “We have two private fit- can call Alison at 381-4110.
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
WE-TRIUMPH OFFERS NEW PROGRAMMING TO THE COMMUNITY By Libby Hopkins We-Triumph is p.m., Monday thrilled and excited through Friday. to share the opening Our innovative of its Brandon-locatlearning center ed Adult Day Training focuses on the Academy with the interest and specommunity. cial needs of our “Our academy is students so they geared to educate can learn and adults with intellecmaintain their tual and developmenindependence. tal disabilities,” said We offer supWe-Triumph’s CEO, ported employWe-Triumph is thrilled and excited to share the Kimberly Quintana. ment programs, opening of its Adult Day Training Academy with the “Our innovative learnhealth and wellcommunity. ing center focuses on ness classes, job the interest and specific needs of consum- skills training and independent living skills to ers who may benefit from additional train- include budgeting and money management. ing focused on everyday chores and tasks Our program offers weekly classes to inthat allows them to live a full, productive clude training such as how to dress properly, and confident adult lifestyle. Classes assist hygiene, music and art class, etiquette, cookin supporting those skills needed to reach ing and caring for small pets. Our grocery and maintain goals that aid in their indepen- store has a cash register and POS system for dence.” our students to learn job skills. We particiQuintana was inspired to create We-Tri- pate in supervised outings that assist them umph by her daughter, Brandy, who has de- with skills to thrive in social settings.” velopmental disabilities. “I’ve always wantQuintana hopes the community will ened her to experience life as an independent gage this program and help it to grow. young adult but was not able to find the “We envision our program growing and right setting that offered services to give reaching more students and families each her the skills she needs to thrive,” Quintana and every day,” Quintana said. “We want to said. “It’s always been my priority that she reach and teach others in our community has the proper tools to learn to live with her who would benefit and grow by the services disability and not enable her because of it. I we provide. Our dedicated staff is commitknew she would flourish if she were given ted to providing the best learning experithe essentials, such as learning to live inde- ence available to empower everyone to live pendently, developing social skills and learn- their adult lives as independent members of ing to follow through on responsibilities.” society.” We-Triumph is a day program aimed toTo learn more about We-Triumph, located wards adults ages 18 and over with intel- at 780 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon, and its lectual and developmental disabilities. “Our new program, visit www.we-triumph.com or program operates from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 call Quintana at 662-4531.
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March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
THE REGENT HOSTS THE SECOND ANNUAL WEDDING DRESS GIVEAWAY By Lily Belcher The Regent in Rivhelp The Regent with erview has announced its second event. its second annual Nominations were Wedding Dress Givesubmitted through away, which will give The Regent’s website wedding dresses to throughout February selected teachers and and brides will be sesoon-to-be-brides. lected and fitted for “Educators just betheir gown in April. came the next group of “I think the biggest people who really have part of it is just makWedding Dress Giveaway winner had to modify how Jenna Rose received a dress from The ing sure enough people they do things [due to know about it … and Regent this year the coronavirus] … so we give as many dresswe figured it would es as we can away,” be a great appreciasaid Keil. “I hope that tion for them as well,” it encourages others to explained The Regent give back and to do litCEO Shannon Keil. tle unexpected things.” The Regent has colThe event will conlected around 50 doclude in May with a nated wedding dresses brunch for the brides, from local bridal shops who will pick their like Satin & Lace Briddresses. al Boutique in River“I love it when the view and Flora’s Bridal girl comes in for the in Brandon and prefitting and she puts served dresses from on the dress and it fits former brides in the her like a glove and area. These donated her face lights up,” exdresses will be given Bride Jenna Rose was the first wedding plained Keil. “There’s to teachers who were dress recipient and stands with her dad just a look on her face and Shannon Keil. nominated by their when she puts ‘the one’ peers and selected by a team outside of on, and that moment is worth everyThe Regent. thing.” “We have had a lot of donations from The Regent is still accepting dress dopeople dropping them off, so it has be- nations. To donate, call The Regent at come a community thing for people to 571-2494 or drop off a dress between feel like they’re connected to it,” said 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday through FriKeil. day. For more information on the event, Keil also mentioned that some of last visit The Regent’s Facebook page or visit year’s health care workers who received its website at www.experiencetheredresses have reached out and offered to gent.com/wedding-dress-giveaway.
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BLOOMINGDALE SENIORS KEEP UP RED LETTER TRADITION Staff Report The Red Letter mond said. “The Envelope Project Class of 2022 has been a tradiwas the first high tion at Bloomingschool class to dale High School get a senior year for more than 10 that was remoteyears. Seniors are ly normal. They given red enveare finishing their lopes filled with final year of high cards and letters school after comof congratulations pleting only one and encouragefull term of in-perment from famson schooling: ily, friends, past Red letters are due to Bloomingdale High School freshman year. teachers or coachThey have done seniors by Wednesday, April 13. es to help them a fantastic job of prepare for college or go off into the keeping old traditions alive and starting world. new ones.” “This has been a time-honored tradition There is plenty of time for parents, for 10 years,” said Ariel Raymond, Red guardians, family and friends to get their Letter Envelope Project coordinator at red letter envelopes to the seniors. The Bloomingdale High School. “It is such a red letter envelopes are due by Wednesspecial thing for the senior class. Letters day, April 13 at Bloomingdale High School. come from those who had an essential “All letters and cards will be sorted, role in their academic journey and those kept safe and confidential. If you don’t who wish them well. Knowing that some- know a senior but want to bestow some one took the time to write to them means wisdom, feel free to send over letters or a lot to the seniors.” cards as well. Just don’t put a name on The red letter envelopes bring some the front,” said Raymond. history with them as well. Red envelopes If you would like to send a senior a have been gifts presented at social and red letter envelope, please make sure the family gatherings such as weddings, hol- cards or letters are no larger than 8 in. x idays and especially Chinese New Year. 10 in. Packages, gift cards and cards with The red color of the envelope symbolizes confetti are not allowed. Please keep all good luck and is a symbol to ward off evil envelopes flat, and please do not send spirits. Red envelopes are usually given anything of value as the school is not reout to the younger generation, who are sponsible for it. If you send several envestill in school or unmarried. It is tradi- lopes inside a large envelope, please put tional to put brand-new notes inside red the student’s full name on all envelopes. envelopes. If you have any other questions, please “The red envelopes will be given to the get in touch with Raymond at ariel.rayseniors during senior breakfast,” Ray- mond@outlook.com or 484-9707.
NOW Accepting New Patients Call today to schedule an appointment.
813-530-0903 631 W. Lumsden Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE 12TH ANNUAL CRAWFISH & CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Staff Report
Are you a seafood Since its inception, lover? Then mark your the Rotary Club of Fishcalendars for a delicious Hawk-Riverview has been event that also helps out involved in numerous serthe community. vice projects and, most The Rotary Club of recently, a global project in FishHawk-Riverview is Honduras providing water hosting its 12th annual filtration and latrine sysCrawfish Festival at Wintems for local communities throp Town Centre on in that country. Saturday, April 30 from “We have also provided 11 a.m.-4 p.m. funds for college scholar“We are looking forship programs for local high ward to making this the school students; Student largest Crawfish Festival Dictionary Distribution— yet to be put on by the over 8,500 dictionaries to Rotary Club of Fish- The 12th annual Crawfish Festival, elementary students since Hawk-Riverview,” said hosted by the Rotary Club of Fish- the program began; RotaGabriel Mbulo, the club’s Hawk-Riverview, will take place at ry’s Camp Florida, a camp Winthrop Town Centre on Saturpresident. for special needs children day, April 30 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. One hundred percent and adults in Brandon; of the proceeds from the event will help Group Study Exchange; Reading Is Fundathe Rotary Club Foundation, a 501(c)(3) mental, where more than 800 books have charity, to fund and support local, national been donated to Head Start students and and international charities and activities. members volunteer to read to the students Charities and activities include, but are monthly; Project C.U.R.E., a collection and not limited to, college scholarships for lo- distribution of medical supplies to developcal students, ECHO, Campo Family YMCA, ing nations; PolioPlus and The Rotary FounYMCA Camp Christina, the Sylvia Thomas dation,” said Mbulo. Center, the Brandon Outreach Clinic, RoRotary International is an organization tary’s Camp Florida, Head Start, PolioPlus of business and professional leaders, unitand more. ed worldwide, who provide humanitarian The event will feature a live perfor- service, encourage high ethical standards mance by Soul Circus Cowboys, a high-en- in all vocations and help build goodwill and ergy powerhouse Southern rock band from peace in the world. In more than 165 counTampa. There will be lots of fun, free games tries worldwide, approximately 1.4 million and various activities for children. Rotarians belong to over 33,000 Rotary “As usual, we will be offering a variety Clubs. of Cajun-style dishes, such as crawfish dinSponsorships and vendor spots are ners, étouffée, gumbo, jambalaya and ham- available for the event and all of the inforburgers and hot dogs,” said Mbulo. “Addi- mation, including food pricing and pickup tionally, we are anticipating having over 50 information, please visit our website at vendors in attendance.” www.luvcrawfish.com.
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March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 17
ANOTHER GREAT ART SHOW WAS PRESENTED BY THE EAST HILLSBOROUGH ART GUILD AT THE 2022 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
By Kathy L. Collins
The 2022 Florida bon and a cash prize. Strawberry Festival Fine This year, a Youth Arts Show, presented Best of Show was by the East Hillsborpresented for the first ough Art Guild (EHAG), time. The winner was showcases the artwork Malyssa Ollar from of the talented residents Tarpon Springs, who of the Tampa Bay area. received a ribbon and a The show is open to the cash prize. The Youth public during the annual Best of Show was Florida Strawberry Fessponsored by Jarret tival in Plant City. Scott Ford of Plant There were numerous City. entries in multiple media Karen Crumley, from professionals, amachair of the show, teurs and youth. said, “The quality of The judges for this the youth entries is year’s show were Elgetting better and len Chastain and Laura The Best of Show winner for the Florida better each year. They Putnam. Chastain is the Strawberry Festival was Sandra Lalle- are seeing what other education manager for mand from Dade City for her delightful youth are producing acrylic painting featuring sheep. The the Polk Museum of Art winner for the Strawberry Theme Award and think to themat Florida Southern Col- was given to Mamie Robinson of Plant selves, ‘I can do that lege. Chastain has been City for her oil piece featuring possums too.’” and strawberries. in the visual arts field This year, Suncoast for over 15 years and is sought after as a Credit Union sponsored prizes for all of the qualified juror and judge of art competitions. amateur awards in all four divisions. CrumPutnam is the manager of exhibitions and ley said, “They wanted to encourage art, give adult programs at the Polk Museum of Art. back to the community and to keep the arts Putnam is a native Floridian who earned thriving in our community.” her BFA from the prestigious Rhode Island In addition to the traditional awards givSchool of Design. en, area businesses can get involved by being The Adult Best of Show was awarded to a Business Leader Choice Award sponsor. Sandra Lallemand from Dade City, who won This year, there were 15 Business Leader in the adult professional acrylics category. Choice Award sponsors, including the OsThe Best of Show award comes with a rib- prey Observer, which selected a sculpture bon and a cash prize. created by Delaney Richards, and Winthrop The Strawberry Theme Award was given Arts, which selected a watercolor created to Mamie Robinson from Plant City, who by Barbara Tudek. won in the adult amateur oils category. The To get information for next year, please Strawberry Theme Award comes with a rib- visit www.ehagfinearts.com.
KNOWLEDGE IS A USEFUL TOOL IN NAVIGATING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
By Kathy L. Collins
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive dis- and is also available via text message at ease that destroys memory and other im- 646-585-5283. The web chat and text mesportant mental functions. It is very common sage features are available in over 90 differwith about three million cases per year. As ent languages. the population of the United States ages, The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America the number of people diagnosed with Alz- also offers educational conferences and weheimer’s disease binars and hosts daily will increase. It is a virtual therapeutic growing health issue. programming in the Until there is a forms of art, music, cure, caregivers need dance and fitness. to be armed with edIts National Memucation and the tools ory Screening ProThe Alzheimer’s Foundation of America to provide the best gram offers free, possible care for their offers a multitude of programs and ser- confidential, virtual vices for those who suffer from Alzheiloved ones and make memory screenings. A mer’s disease as well as for their caregivers sure that they and their memory screening is a and other professionals who care for loved ones are living a simple and safe evaluthose afflicted with the disease. high quality of life. ation tool that checks The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America memory and other thinking skills. It can is a nonprofit organization whose mission indicate whether an additional checkup is to provide support, services and educa- by a qualified health care professional is tion to individuals, families and caregivers needed. affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related It also offers dementia care training dementias nationwide and to fund research for professionals and research grants. for better treatment and a cure. Its services One important program it offers is careinclude a National Toll-Free Helpline (866- giver support groups. 232-8484), the National Memory Screen“Knowledge is a useful and powerful ing Program, educational conferences and tool that can help make any situation materials as well as ‘AFA Partners in Care’ easier to navigate, especially something dementia care training for health care pro- as challenging as caring for a loved one fessionals. with Alzheimer’s disease,” said Charles The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s J. Fuschillo Jr., president and CEO of the toll-free hotline is staffed by licensed social Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. workers trained in dementia care. The HelpFor more information that the Alzheiline is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days mer’s Foundation of America has to offer, a week. The Helpline has a webchat feature please visit www.alzfdn.org.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
TECO HOSTS 11TH ANNUAL FUN FAMILY EVENT
By Kate Quesada
If you are looking on Hope, a nonfor a fun and deliprofit raising funds cious way to help for uninsured the community, mark and underinsured your calendar for breast cancer paSaturday, March 26. tients. The charity The 11th BBQ purchases biopsy Cook-off for Charineedles, postsurty, hosted by TECO gical garments Family BBQ Cook-off and lymphedema for Charity, will take sleeves for approxplace at the Internaimately 200 untional Independent derinsured breast Showmen’s Associ- TECO Family BBQ Cook-off for Charity will take cancer patients ation in Riverview place at the International Independent Show- annually. men’s Association in Riverview on Saturday, starting at 10 a.m. “This year, a March 26. According to ‘treatment supth Natalie Ashmore, port fund’ was secretary for TECO added to the Family BBQ Cookofferings which off for Charity, the helps breast canTECO Team members competing and sharing some of the best BBQ around! event will have cer patients and We’ll have live entertainment, car show, and plenty of live entertainment, their families activities to keep the kids Entertained. delicious food and pay for medically activities including needed expenses a car show. such as prescriptions or office and hospital TECO Family BBQ Cook-off for Charity is visit co-pays and living expenses,” said Asha 501(c)(3) run by past and present TECO more. “The proceeds are used at the Univerteam members. sity of Florida (USF) Breast Health Program “We are a separate entity from the elec- under the leadership of Dr. Charles E. Cox.” tric and gas utility, but they are a key conTo learn more about Hooked on Hope, vistributing sponsor,” said Ashmore. it https://hookedonhope.org/about/. Attendees can sample food cooked by The International Independent ShowTECO employees or vendors who are spon- men’s Association is located at 6915 Riversored by a TECO team member. Prizes will view Dr. in Riverview. be given for People’s Choice, Best Chicken The BBQ Cook-off for Charity is seeking Wing and Best Dessert, Grand Champion, raffle items and sponsors for the event. As Reserve Grand Champion and third through the organization is a 501(c)(3), any donafifth place overall. tions are deductible as allowed by the IRS. Tickets to the event are $12 for adults For sponsorship information or questions, and free for children under 10. contact Tina Lukcic at 813-228-1341 or All proceeds from the event go to Hooked email tllukcic@tecoenergy.com.
11 Annual TECO Family BBQ Cook-off for Charity
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
March 2022
BLOOMINGDALE WRESTLING ENDS SEASON WITH ONE OF THEIR WRESTLERS PLACING FIFTH AT STATES
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BLOOMINGDALE GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM WINS FIRST DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP SINCE 1995 By Nick Nahas
By Lily Belcher is great,” said Kitko. Kitko has been a wrestling coach for 26 years now and has coached the Bloomingdale Bulls for five of those. Last year, he was awarded Joel Medgebow Wrestling Coach of the Year and has coached three state champions throughout his career. The coach Nate Overman (second from the left) placed fifth in the state tourna- began wrestling when ment in the first week of March. he was 8 years old and Coach Dennis Kitko has led the wrestled for Brandon Bloomingdale High School wrestling High School and Cornell University. team to the playoffs this season, finish“I’ve been coaching 26 years and can’t ing 20-5 overall in the regular season. imagine a better way to help young peo“I love that the small group I have left. ple achieve success than wrestling,” exAll bought into the system of working plained Kitko. “It takes discipline, hard hard and dedicating themselves to the work and a dedication that you won’t sport,” said Kitko. find in many other sports.” This season, Kitko coached two of disBloomingdale’s wrestling team fotrict champions that he said wrestled all cused more on individual wrestling this summer to prepare, which paid off in the year rather than team wrestling. Kitko post season when they beat two great said that his goal is to make each of wrestlers to earn the titles. The district his wrestlers a better person through champions, Jose Milord and Nate Over- teaching them good values in their trainman, placed third and second, respec- ing and practice. tively, in the county championships. “I love the sport of wrestling; however, Both Milord and Overman advanced to it is more important that I teach great the state championship the first week of values that I’ve learned from Christ such March. Overman placed fifth and Milord as love, respect, kindness and humility to qualified and won one of his matches as every one of my wrestlers. Making great well. wrestlers is good but helping to develop “Others that performed well at coun- great human beings is true fulfillment,” ties were Aiden Smallwood, J.R. Singer, said Kitko. Jeremiah Sawicksy and Thomas Owen. For more information on Bloomingdale We did qualify eight wrestlers at dis- High School athletics, visit hillsboroughtricts to the regional tournament, which schools.org/bloomingdale.
The Bloomingdale the Bloomingdale gym. High School girls bas“Her showing that ketball team claimed toughness and playing their first district through this pretty sechampionship since vere injury inspired me, 1995. The contest was and I know it inspired close for two and a half her teammates,” said quarters, but the Lady Bower. “That was the Bulls used their depth spark I think we needto pull away late in the ed Friday night to get Photo courtesy of Bloomingdale Athletic Director us going.” third quarter, convincSara Bouge ingly beating Braden The Lady Bulls not The Bloomingdale High School girls basketRiver 57-34. The Bulls only won District 6Aball team claimed their first district champiwere led by junior 11, but they also did it onship since 1995. guard Aissatou Diallo, in dominant fashion, who connected on six three-pointers. winning 20-plus games for the first time in “Winning districts this year meant every- 15 years, and the first time during Bower’s 11thing to me,” said junior shooting guard Melo- year tenure, with an impressive 23-5 overall dy Womack. “It’s something that I’ve always record. wanted ever since I came to Bloomingdale. “It’s always a goal to win a district title,” Knowing that it hasn’t happened in 25 years, said Bower. “We expect to win, and hopefully and knowing how bad Coach Bower wanted that just snowballs and creates that culture to win and that he has never had a district where kids are continuing to work hard and championship before, made us want it even understand that what got this for us was all more.” the hard work,” said Bower. There was a lot of doubt that Womack The girls knew how long it had been since would play again this season, let alone be the last district championship, and they espeable to play in the championship game, after cially wanted to win for their coach. taking an elbow to the face and sustaining a In February, the Lady Bulls won their substantial mouth injury in the Western Con- first-ever regional championship after beatference title game against Plant one week ing Land O’ Lakes 45-37, achieving their best prior. Head Coach Joel Bower said that this season in school history. They came up a little was a turning point in their season because bit short in the state semifinal game vs Wekiit brought the team together even more va. through adversity. He used the W4M (Win “This is such an amazing sisterhood. We are for Mel) hashtag on the official team Twitter like a family and have such a strong bond that page as motivation to win for her. The team’s nobody can break,” said Womack. “I think we spark plug and leading rebounder missed the have come so far because of the chemistry, semifinals but was able to help her team- love and support that we have for each other. mates accomplish something that hadn’t There’s not another team I would want to be been done since any of them were born— on. We’re making history, and that’s somehang a championship banner on the wall of thing that I’ll never forget.”
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Page 20
Safe Boating Classes, Grace Market & More Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
Bloomingdale Athletic Club General Meeting
The Bloomingdale High School Boosters will be holding its general meeting on Tuesday, April 5 at 7p.m. in the Bloomingdale High School media center. All board positions are available for those interested. For more information, please email info@bshsboosters.com by Monday, April 4 to have your name submitted.
Fraternal Order Of Eagles Craft Show
Come out on Saturday, April 2 to help support your local crafters and artisans, as the Fraternal Order of Eagles is hosting a craft show at 1810 Front St. in Valrico with over 40 vendors selling art, jewelry, tumblers, soaps, wreaths, essential oils and so much more. The kitchen will also be open to purchase food and beverages.
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Community Dances With DJ Ken Miller
DJ Ken Miller will be DJing a new Wednesday morning dance at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, located at 302 S. Maryland Ave. in Plant City, from 10 a.m.12 Noon. He will play a fun, diverse range of music to satisfy everyone, including country, ballroom, R&B, rock ‘n’ roll, Latin, line dancing and more. You can dance, watch or do your own thing, this is just for fun. He will also be at the Brandon Community Center, located at 502 E. Sadie St., in Brandon on April 1 from noon until 2:00p.m. This dance is open to those aged 50 and over. For more information, visit his website at www.djkenmiller.com or call 863-409-7714.
Creative Junk Therapy Classes
Creative Junk Therapy is a nonprofit creative reuse center located at 727 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Its mission is to promote creativity, environmental awareness and community through reuse. Materials are collected from local businesses and residents and then distributed to educators, artists, makers and students through a variety of opportunities. The center contains a thrift store, art gallery, class space and ‘make-and-take’ space. Upcoming classes include making a mosaic stepping-stone, fiber arts and a plant party. Visit www.creativejunktherapy.org for more details of classes and how to register.
Brandon Christian Church Flea Communal Second Night Of Market Passover Seder Brandon Christian Church, located at 910 Join Congregation Beth Shalom on Saturday, April 16 at 6 p.m. for a wonderful family Seder led by Senior Rabbi Robert Lefkowitz. You will have a choice of chicken or salmon for the meal cooked by gourmet cooks. The cost is $45 for adults and $20 for children ages 5-12, and it is free for children under 5. Reserve your place by emailing Julie Shienbaum at jul78clint@aol.com. For more information, call the temple office at 6816547 or email cbs-brandon@outlook.com. Congregation Beth Shalom is located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon.
U.S. Coastguard Offers Safe Boating Classes Online
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is restarting its safe boating class every Thursday night 6:30-9 p.m. The course is ‘Boat America, a course on responsible boating,’ and the cost is $40, which includes a printed study guide and runs for four weeks. The course meets the legal requirements for people born after January 1, 1988 who must complete an approved boater safety class in order to independently operate a boat. Students can enroll and enter the course at any time. Additional information can be found and you can register for the class by contacting Rich Strehl at rich@protectionflorida.com or calling 299-8236.
Bryan Rd. in Brandon, will host its much-anticipated flea market on Saturday, March 26 at 8 a.m. A wide variety of items will be available, so be sure to go and see what it has to offer. For more information, contact Day Broers-Case at 689-4021.
Gardening Seminars At Kerby’s Nursery
Kerby’s Nursery is hosting some gardening seminars this spring. A Butterfly Gardening Seminar will take place on Saturday, April 2 at 10 a.m. It will discuss different blooms that attract different butterflies and how to keep the butterflies in your garden. Growing tropical trees will be covered on Saturday, April 9 at 10 a.m., including how to select, place, plant and protect fruit trees in your growing zone. There is no need to register for these events, just come to the greenhouse a few minutes before the start time. Kerby’s Nursery is located at 2311 S. Parsons Ave. in Seffner. Details about more events can be found on its website at www.kerbysnursery.com or by calling 685-3265.
Grace Community Market
Grace Community Church, located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia, is holding its next market day on Saturday, March 26 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be a wide selection of vendors with food and fun as well as local shopping for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and graduations. If you are interested in being a vendor, please register at www.gracecommunitymarket.com.
At Last Chiropractic is hosting an Easter egg hunt at its office on Saturday, April 2 at 11 a.m. The office is located at 5613 Skytop Dr. in Lithia.
Volume 17, Issue 3
SPREADING CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS ONE DRINK AT A TIME By Sharon Still Feel good while no matter where drinking somethey are in their thing that is good journey,” commentfor you at Mighty ed Downing, adding Heroes Nutrition, a that she could not newly opened shop do all of this within the Royal Oaks out the support of Shopping Center in the community and, Valrico. The menu more importantly, is filled with nutriher husband, Justin. tional shakes, tea, Downing said lemonade and cofthat fundraisfee, and its mission Mighty Heroes Nutrition, a shake shop benefitting ing events will be is to bring the com- children with cancer, recently opened, celebrating planned for the fuofficially with a Valrico FishHawk Chamber of munity together and ture. Blood drives, Commerce ribbon-cutting. spread awareness of bone marrow childhood cancer, one drink at a drives, biking events and yoga time. are just some of the events she The store is run by Small hopes to put together. “Our but Mighty Heroes (SBMH), a intention is to host events to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizacontinue to fundraise and to ention spearheaded by Tina Downcourage the community to come ing. “The idea is to spread more together and to grow the village awareness of childhood cancer,” as we support children battling said Downing. “The shop is a means to bring cancer,” remarked Downing. The brick-andin much-needed funding for children bat- mortar store will make fundraising events tling cancer.” possible. Every day, 46 children, from birth to age “My passion for these superhero children 19, are diagnosed with cancer. Statistically, runs deep within me, and I will continue to one in 285 children, translating to at least pursue advocacy, to spread awareness of eight of about 2,400 students attending childhood cancer and to partner with reBloomingdale High School, is or will be di- search foundations to focus on less toxic agnosed with cancer by the time they are treatments and a cure,” she said. “As we say 20 years old. at SBMH, it takes a village, and no one fights Downing’s passion and lifelong goal of sav- alone.” ing children led her to start SBMH in 2017. Mighty Heroes Nutrition is located at SBMH focuses on children and families 3240 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 103 in Valriimpacted by childhood cancer. Each family co. Its hours are Monday through Friday, 8 is offered tailored support and the aim is to a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Visrecognize each child as an incredible super- it www.smallbutmightyheroes.org, where hero. there are stories of children, ways to donate “We truly focus on what is impactful to and more, or call 541-7487 for further dethem as we remain constant and relevant tails.
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
CENTER PLACE WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE BOARD PRESIDENT By Libby Hopkins Center Place Fine Arts voted in as Center & Civic Association is Place’s new executive excited to announce it board president. “I has a new board presilove the opportunident, Riverview resident ties that Center Place Bernadette Pello. She is offers not only to stualso the president and dents but adults as co-founder of Livingwell,” Pello said. “It stone Academy as well is very important to as the marketing manengage our diverse ager for KNOW Women members in the arts, Tampa Bay. whether it is our “I am originally from young students and upstate New York,” Peladults, our veterans lo said. “I have been in or our vulnerable popFlorida, specifically the ulations. We partner Brandon area, for 28 Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association with other nonprofits years. I have 35 years of is excited to announce it has a new board in the community to president, Bernadette Pello. professional experience, provide quality pro15 in corporate and 20 grams. I love watchyears as the co-owner ing the collaboration with my husband, Chris, with other nonprofits for almost 20 years. Chris and I founded and and organizations.” own Livingstone Schools.” Ryan is still an active board member, as The couple started Livingstone Academy is his brother, Tom Odiorne, who is Center with 30 students and four staff members. Place’s treasurer. “We now have 450 students, four locations Pello has many goals for Center Place and 85 employees,” Pello said. “We are during her term. “Some of my goals obvistarting up our fifth location next school ously need to continue our efforts to keep year. It will be a trade academy focusing Center Place strong financially,” Pello said. on preapprenticeship programs for anyone “Without that, we cannot provide the prowith a high school diploma or GED. grams needed in the community. I would The couple also owns a food truck as a love to see our monthly events grow, such family with their son, Michael, called Pasta as Artist Night. I want to see Center Place Monsta. “I served as the chairman of the known for our quality art and community board for the Brandon Chamber of Com- programs and our beautiful event space. We merce in 2020 and I currently chair GEAC,” have been a part of the Brandon community Pello said. for 49 years, and thanks to our committed Pello has been a part of Center Place’s board and other community members, we board for more than a year. When the cur- are here to stay.” rent executive board president, Ryan OdiFor more information, visit www.centerorne, stepped down, Pello was unanimously placebrandon.com or call 685-8888.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
JOIN THE ANNUAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL OF TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY eo. The video submission is due by Friday, April 22. The annual Storytelling Festival is good for children in kindergarten through 12th grade. You can join any time by visiting www. h c p l c . The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative is presenting the annual org/storytellStorytelling Festival now through May. Join anytime and learn how to be a ingfestival. storyteller. Each session is approximately 30 minutes with a question and answer session. In addition to virtual sessions, there are some live online events scheduled For 42 years, the Hillsborough Counwhich require registration ty Public Library Cooperative has held a by attendees. A library has been set up Storytelling Festival. This year, the Story- so that attendees who have missed prior telling Festival is virtual. This allows a lot virtual sessions can log in and watch the more area residents to become involved. videos anytime at their convenience. The Storytelling Festival runs through Adams said, “Storytelling enhances Friday, May 13. your life. For young people, it strengthAttendees can learn the art of storytell- ens reading, writing and listening skills. ing and become storytellers themselves. It increases confidence as there is a pubThe online festival features performances lic speaking component. Storytelling can by storytellers, fun workshops and the also help strengthen family ties with fun chance to submit your own storytelling stories. All of these are great even for video. young children.” Katie Adams is a professional storytellAdams added, “We would love for peoer. Adams is a member of the Friends of ple to join the Storytelling Festival this Storytelling of Tampa-Hillsborough Coun- year. There is still plenty of time to join ty. Adams joined the Friends of Storytell- and learn how to tell a story.” ing in 2014, but she has been involved Adams is the owner of Make Believe with the annual Storytelling Festival Theatre. She offers storytelling and pupsince 1987. pet shows and takes her craft to schools Adams explained that attendees will and libraries throughout Florida. She has learn everything they need to tell a story been doing this since 2000. and that it’s good for parents and chilFor festival information and to learn dren. You will learn the process of telling how to participate, please visit www. a story and even be able to submit a vid- hcplc.org/storytellingfestival.
Volume 17, Issue 3
BRANDON BALLET CONTINUES LEGACY OF AWARDING THE RICHARD MUNRO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP The winner of the to build dancers who annual Richard Munro become not only great Memorial Scholarship at their craft but great is Jada Stevenson, a in their character.” demi-soloist dancer Dancers who are sewith Brandon Ballet. rious about their ballet She has been with training are invited to Brandon Ballet for four audition to be conyears. sidered for the scholStevenson is curarship. Based rently a junior at Blake upon the judges’ High School in TamrecommendaJada Stevenson (center), a pa, where she studies junior at Blake High School tion, Brandon in Tampa and a dancer with film production. She Ballet awards has trained in ballet, Brandon Ballet, is this year’s one winner a Richard Munro Memorial modern, jazz and conprize of $250 Scholarship winner. Steventemporary for the past son is shown here with Alice H. Bock (left), to $500 to go towards seven years. In the fu- executive director of Brandon Ballet, and a summer training proture, Stevenson hopes gram of their choice. Brentwood Townend (right), assistant artistic director for Brandon Ballet. to use the skills gained For over 10 years, the in school and at The Dance Center, home of Richard Munro Memorial Scholarship has Brandon Ballet, to study towards becoming provided several dancers the opportunity an OB-GYN.” Hanna Townend, administra- to fulfill their aspirations of dancing profestive director for Brandon Ballet, said. “Let sionally. us raise a heartfelt congratulations to Jada.” Brandon Ballet was founded in 1993. Munro was a vital component of Brandon Brandon Ballet is a nonprofit, preprofesBallet. As a ballet coach, choreographer, sional ballet company that develops and consultant and master costume artist, his promotes opportunities for aspiring young creativity and artistry shone in everything dancers. By offering a superior training prohe touched. His legacy lives on at Brandon gram and three major performances each Ballet, which was graced with such an asset. year, Brandon Ballet helps serious dancers Townend said, “When he passed in 2008, broaden their dance experiences. we sought a way for his legacy and inspiYou can see the dancers of Brandon Ballet ration to live on. We are honored to contin- perform locally in An Evening of Enchantue his legacy annually through the Richard ment on Saturday, April 9 at 7 p.m. in Sun Munro Memorial Scholarship.” Townend City Center at 1900 Clubhouse Dr. Tickets added, “Through dance training, perfor- are $16, which includes admission and desmance opportunities and more, we are able sert. To get tickets, please call 387-3447. Private Charters: 4 hour, 6 hour, 8 hour & 2.5 hour Sunset Cruises. Cruising the Alafia River and Tampa Bay.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 23
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 25
AREA SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY OPTIONS TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED Have you got the calendar ready? Summer is just around the corner and camps are gearing up for an active and busy camp season! The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pullout section. We asked local camps what they are doing to keep students engaged and active this year! Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club Tennis Camp Do you have a budding tennis player in your home? If so, Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club camps might be the place for you. Camp Osprey, LLC For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horse back riding and much more. Hurricane Volleyball Academy Volleyball players should check out the camps offered at Hurricane Volleyball Academy (HVA) owned by Riverview residents Victoria and Brian Adams.
Patel Conservatory The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of week summer camps for rising actors, musicians, and dancers starting May 31 and running through August 5. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday. Trilogy Dive This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-yearolds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Kids R Kids With locations in Valrico and Lithia, Kids R Kids has been offering summer camps since cians. 2004. This summer, the With a variety theme is Camp Boomerof camp options in full ang and students can sign and half-day experiences, there’s up on a weekly basis or for something for every young entertainer. the whole summer. Mathnasium of Riverview and Brandon Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Music Showcase The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase offers summer camps for aspiring actors a n d musi-
High 5, Inc. Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to sail away for the best summer of their lives, kicking off on May 31. YMCA All camps begin on May 31 and run through August 5 with ten separate sessions available Monday-Friday. TLC’S Gypsy Haven TLC’s Gypsy Haven offers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focusing on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sidekicks Summer Camp Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its Summer Camp 2022 program with Martial Arts, field trips & more. Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Or, enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ ospreyobserver.com. Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) to kquesada@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online. Have a great summer of fun!
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
TRILOGY DIVE CENTER HOSTS SUMMER YOUTH SCUBA CAMPS
By Lily Belcher
This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Successful students will earn their scuba certification as Open Water Diver or A d va n c e d Open Water Diver. “ [ T h e goal of the Trilogy Dive Center is hosting camp is to] two scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds this summer. have fun, meet new friends, explore our underwater world and get scuba certified,” said Scuba Instructor and Owner Mike Massaro. Each camp is offered every week this summer. No camps are held on the week of Wednesday to Sunday, July 4-8. Each week of camp will last Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Trilogy Dive Center on E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. For the weeklong certification camp, campers will participate in 40 hours of dive instruction and leave with their scuba certification. The Open Water Camp is for those with no prior scuba certification. The camper will participate in the classroom, pool and open water checkout dives to earn
their Open Water Scuba Certification. “The camper starts off their week with classroom academics and pool work. This happens Monday-Wednesday. Thursday and Friday are spent at dive sites with the divers putting their newfound skills to work,” explained Massaro. “To become certified, they must attend every day, successfully pass all of the water skills in the pool and successfully complete four checkout dives that we conduct at lakes and springs.” Every diver starts with Open Water Scuba. Trilogy Dive Center’s instructors are military veterans, health care professionals and educators. They have extensive experience training young adults to scuba dive. Each camp is limited to 10 campers and will be led by an adult scuba instructor. Equipment, drinks and snacks will be provided, so the only things campers have to bring is lunch, sunblock and a towel. The Open Water Camp is $595, and the Advanced Open Water Camp is $695. Register now and give your child an adventure that will last a lifetime. Visit trilogyscuba. com, call 425-3500 or email scuba@triologyscuba.com.
Volume 17, Issue 3
THE PATEL CONSERVATORY AT THE STRAZ CENTER HOSTS SUMMER CAMPS
By Lily Belcher
The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Cen- basics and skills to showcase in their final ter is hosting a variety of week summer performances. Showstoppers: Broadway Incamps for rising actors, musicians, and tensive is available for teen students at the dancers starting on Tuesday, May 31 and end of the summer as well. Musical theater running through Fricamps are an option for day, August 5. musically inclined acWeekly camps tors and actresses to will take place combine their dancMonday through ing, acting and singFriday, with preing talents on stage. and post-camp Music camps and available for an intensives are availadditional $30 able throughout the each or $50 for summer, with focuses both extensions. on different genres in The Patel Coneach camp. servatory offers sum- The Patel Conservatory offers dance, “Summer music offerings mer dance camps and theater and music camps throughout the at the Patel Conservatory summer. intensives for beginallow students to experience ner and advanced dancers. The advanced singing in a choir, discovering a new instruand intensive camps, which vary in price, re- ment or playing in a chamber ensemble. Inquire prior experience, but its beginning jazz strumentalists and vocalists of all ages have dance, tap dance and ballet camps are open fun while developing their talents,” accordto elementary and middle school dancers for ing to the brochure. $145. Group classes for violin, piano, singing and For aspiring actors and actresses, theater chamber music are offered over the summer students can register for the Patel Conser- and allow students to fine tune their musical vatory’s production camps. talents with a teacher. Private lessons and “The Patel Conservatory Theater De- music theory classes are also available. partment offers training in musical and Information on the camps offered as nonmusical theater through productions, well as specific dates, times and pricing are performance camps and technical theater available in the 2022 Summer Camps and programs,” explains the summer camp bro- Classes brochure on the Straz Center’s webchure. site at strazcenter.org. For more information Young actors can participate in shows like on specific details of the camps, contact the Disney’s 101 Dalmatians and Shakespeare’s admissions staff at 222-1040 or 800-955As You Like It, where they will learn theater 1045 (toll-free).
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
YMCA CAMP INSPIRES DREAMS AND SUPPORTS CHILDREN By Amy Schechter Whether you riding, canoeing, need childcare visual arts and over the summore. mer or just want Besides many your kids to esconvenient locacape the house, tions in the Branthe YMCA has don, Riverview what kids crave and Apollo Beach at one of its area, including many summer the North Tampa camp locations. YMCA, Campo Camp CristiFamily YMCA and na Operations Spurlino Family That feeling when you’re ready for YMCA Summer Director Meagan YMCA at Big Bend Camp! Springer spoke Rd., the community with joy when she described is lucky to have Camp Cristina, summers at the YMCA: a 65-acre campus in Riverview “Camps provide an experience complete with many outdoor where kids have an opportuoptions, including a rock wall, nity that’s very unique. At the ropes course, horseback riding, heart of what we do, we are and water activities. always thinking of ways we All camps begin on Tuesday, can stimulate and support May 31 and run through Friday, kids through recreation while August 5 with 10 separate sesthey are out of school.” sions available from Monday to The American Camp Association (ACA) Friday. Book one weeklong session or book recently announced that the Tampa Met- them all. Camp programming runs from 9 ropolitan Area YMCA Summer Camps re- a.m.-4 p.m. with free early morning care ceived ACA-Accredited Camp status for the beginning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon ex2022 season. After a thorough review of tended care until 6 p.m. Prices start at only nearly 300 standards, the ACA found that $169 per week for YMCA members and the YMCA camps’ staff qualifications, train- are open to the public. Discounted rates for ing and emergency management reflect members, early registration, siblings, multithe highest standards in the industry. Plus, camp sign-ups and early-bird registration YMCA camps offer an array of fun where are available. activity specialists lead campers through For more information on specific lovarious experiences each day, including cations and pricing and to register, visit swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor tampaymca.org/programs/camp/sumeducation, nature encounters, horseback mer-camp.
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FOR THE LOVE OF VOLLEYBALL, HVA IS HERE By Libby Hopkins Victoria and Brian Adams are both edu- ni go off to play volleyball at the collegiate cators. Combined, they have taught in the level,” Victoria said. “We believe in providing district for more than 25 years. “We live in a home for all levels of athletes to achieve Riverview, Florida and love it here,” Victoria their personal goals.” said. “Together, we The mission of HVA is to cultishare a passion for vate an environment of compethelping the youth itive learning through innovative in our communicoaching techniques and high ty, whether that is standards of performance. “HVA through education, is a volleyball club dedicated sports, community to player development both on service, you name it.” and off the court,” Victoria said. Brian won coach “HVA’s customized practice seof the year in 2012 at quences enable us to East Bay High in the maximize individual Western Conference skills training through for volleyball. “Brian a unique format.” The mission of Hurricane has been coaching for Volleyball Academy (HVA) HVA will offer vol14 years in Hillsbor- is to cultivate an environleyball summer camps ough County,” Victoria ment of competitive learning this year. “We have said. “I won teacher of through innovative coaching techniques camps that run all through the year at East Bay and high standards of performance for summer,” Victoria said. ages 8-18. High School in 2016.” “We will be offering bunBrian grew up playing competitive beach dles where people can pick and choose the volleyball and has always had a love for skills position they want to focus on. We will sports and coaching. “He is currently teach- have $10 open gym time where they get ing physical education at Riverview High some upfront instruction, then get to play School,” Victoria said. “About six years ago, some games in the gym. We will be offering he decided to begin the journey of fulfilling college camps as well. Our last college camp a personal challenge of starting his own vol- with Warner University resulted in a player leyball club. I jumped right on board.” And receiving a college scholarship to play volfrom there, Hurricane Volleyball Academy leyball. We target ages 8-18, both boys and (HVA) was born. girls, all skill levels.” HVA started in 2016 and has grown from If you’d like to learn more about HVA or a 15 to 18-year-old girls club to expand into their upcoming summer camps, you can a club for both 8 to 18-year-old girls and visit its website at www.hurricanevolleybalboys. “We’ve had dozens of Hurricane alum- lacademy.com or call Brian at 220-0905.
Contact us today to schedule a risk-free assessment and learn about our summer specials. TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Mathnasium of Brandon 813-655-6284 1048 Bloomingdale Avenue Valrico, FL 33596 mathnasium.com/brandon
Mathnasium of Riverview 813-565-1102 Coming 1388 US 301 Soon! Riverview, FL 33579 mathnasium.com/riverview
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Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club Tennis Camp Do you have a budding tennis player in your home? If so, Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club camps might be the place for you. Located at 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico, camps take place Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m.-12 Noon, with Friday as a rain day. Camps, which boast a 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio, cost $185 a week, but if you register before Friday, April 15, you qualify for the early bird price of $170. New players get a free beginner racket when registering for more than two weeks. Additional discounts are available with inquiry. Snacks and meals are not included. To learn more, call 502-5160 or visit www.buckhornracquet.com.
Camp Osprey, LLC For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey, which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horseback riding and much more. Camps take place every week starting on Sunday, June 5, and campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Day and overnight options are available, with
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
day camp costing $325 a week and overnight being $645. Meals are provided and snacks can be purchased in the camp canteen. The camp is located at 18050 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-928-6860. For more information, visit www.camposprey.com.
Mathnasium Of Riverview And Brandon Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Are there gaps in their learning? Do they need a greater challenge? If so, consider a summer math program with Mathnasium. But don’t wait too long because spots are filling up fast. Mathnasium’s personalized learning plans are proven to improve grades and give them a head start going into the new school year. With live faceto-face instruction, either in-center or online, its summer programs are designed to work in tandem with the other summer camps and activities. Just two or three one-hour sessions per week are all kids need to help keep their math skills on track for the upcoming school year, and your child will continue to enjoy summer because Mathnasium makes learning math fun. Call today for a free assessment. Mathnasium of Brandon (mathnasium.com/brandon) is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. and can be reached at 655-6284, and Mathnasium of Riverview (mathnasium.com/riverview) is located at 1388 U.S. 301 and can be reached at 565-1102.
Volume 17, Issue 3
Arts at Music Showcase offers summer camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer. T h e traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest. Its other camp option is a musical theater camp, where campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show. Camp registration opens in mid-March. For further details, visit www.faopa.org or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
Hurricane Volleyball Academy Volleyball players should check out the camps offered at Hurricane Volleyball Academy (HVA), owned by Riverview residents Victoria and Brian Adams. HVA started in 2016 and has grown from a 15 to 18-year-old girls club to expand into 8 to 18-year-old for both girls and boys with camps that will run throughout the summer. Options will include The Patel Conservatory bundles The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Cenwhere peoter is hosting a variety of week summer ple can pick camps for and choose rising actors, the skills musicians position they want to focus on and $10 and dancopen gym time, which will include instrucers starting tion and games. College camps will also Tu e s d a y, be offered. May 31 and To learn more, visit www.hurricanevol- Music Showcase running The Florida Academy of Performing t h r o u g h leyballacademy.com or call 220-0905.
March 2022
Friday, August 5. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday, with pre- and post-camp available for an additional $30 each or $50 for both extensions. Information on the camps offered as well as specific dates, times and pricing are available in the 2022 Summer Camps and Classes brochure on the Straz Center’s website at strazcenter.org. For more information on specific details of the camps, contact the admissions staff at 222-1040 or 800-955-1045 (toll-free). Trilogy Dive This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Successful students will earn their scuba certification as Open Water Diver or Advanced Open Water Diver. Each camp is limited to 10 campers and will be led by an adult scuba instructor. Equipment, drinks and snacks will be provided, so the only things campers have to bring is lunch, sunblock and a towel. The Open Water Camp is $595, and the Advanced Open Water Camp is $695. To sign up for the camp or for more information on Trilogy Dive’s camps, visit trilogyscuba.com, call 425-3500 or email scuba@
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
t r i o l o g ys c u ba . and camp costs $160 a week per child. com. To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org or call 689-0908. Kids ‘R’ Kids Friday, August YMCA 5. Weekly camps Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA has will take place Monday through Friday, with what kids crave at one of its many summer pre- and post-camp available for an addi- camp locations. tional $30 each or $50 for both extensions. YMCA camps offer an array of fun where Information on the camps offered as activity spewell as specific dates, times and pricing cialists will are available in the 2022 Summer Camps lead campers and Classes brochure on the Straz Center’s through various website at strazcenter.org. For more infor- e x p e r i e n c e s mation on specific details of the camps, each day, incontact the admissions staff at 222-1040 cluding swimor 800-955-1045 (toll-free). ming, science, high ropes, outHigh 5, Inc. door education, nature encounters, horseBrandon’s High 5, Inc. is inviting stu- back riding, canoeing, visual arts and more. dents to sail away for the best summer All camps begin on Tuesday, May 31 and of their lives, kicking off run through Friday, August 5 on Tuesday, May 31. with 10 separate sessions availCampers will be able able from Monday to Friday. Book to choose different one weeklong session or book activities based on a them all. Camp programming cruise ship theme, inruns from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with cluding swimming, divfree early morning care begining, games and activities, ning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon a scavenger hunt, dress-up extenddays, various tournaments, bounce houses, ed care until 6 a slip and slide, water slides and gaming p.m. Prices start tournaments. at only $169 per Camp is offered Monday through Friday week for YMCA from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5, which is locat- members and are open to the public. Dised at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Camp- counted rates for members, early registraers can sign up for weeks throughout the tion, siblings, multi-camp sign-ups and earsummer or the entire summer, with regis- ly-bird registration are available. tration opening in April. For more information on specific locaThere is a $40 registration fee per child tions and pricing and to register, visit www.
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tampaymca.org/letscamp. FishHawk Fellowship Church Sports Summer Camp Calling all young athletes! FishHawk Fellowship Church is hosting its very popular sports camps again this summer with sessions for basketball, soccer and flag football. The basketball camps start Monday, June 6th and continue through Friday, July 1st with soccer and flag football following the weeks of July 11th and July 18th respectively. Sessions are broken down by sport and age group. The price is $100 per week and there are options for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The camp runs from 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. and campers need to bring their own lunch and water bottle. For dates and to sign up, visit fishhawkfc.org/sports. The church is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. Sidekicks Summer Camp Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its summer camp 2022 program with martial arts, amazing field trips, arts and crafts, educational lessons and so much more. Your child is going to have a blast! (For rising kindergartners to rising sixth graders.) Visit www.fishhawksummercamps.com or text 308-0368. Sidekicks is located upstairs at Park Square in the heart of FishHawk Ranch.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
KIDS ‘R’ KIDS OFFERS SUMMER FUN & FIELD SAIL AWAY WITH HIGH 5, INC. SUMMER CAMP FUN By Kate Quesada TRIPS AT TWO LOCATIONS By Kate Quesada
“Kids ‘R’ Kids and water play. Learning Academy Other themes offers a safe, well-suwill include ‘Depervised, educational, cade Dash’; ‘Natengaging and thrilling ural Talent’; where summer camp experistudents will draw ence for children K-5,” inspiration from said Owner Ben Ferthe earth, and nandes. ‘What’s Cookin’,’ With locations in which will allow Valrico and Lithia, campers to cook Kids ‘R’ Kids has been up a ton and give offering summer them the chance camps since 2004. to learn how our This summer, the taste buds work theme is Camp with regard to Boomerang, and sweet vs. sour vs. students can sign salty foods. The up on a weekly baweek ends with a sis or for the whole potluck dinner feasummer. turing a favorite “Camp Boomerdish from each of ang will show- Registration is now available for camp at Kids ‘R’ our campers. Kids in Lithia and Valrico. case unique weekly According to Ferthemes designed to make your campers nandes, field trips will include a Rays game, smile, think, explore, collaborate and grow Sea Screamer in Clearwater, the Ringling in exciting new directions,” said Fernandes. Museum, a tour of the Bucs stadium and The summer camp will feature Australian more. themes, including ‘Down Under,’ which will “We even go to the River Hills Country take campers to explore what makes Aus- Club pool,” he explained. tralia special; a movie-themed week called The camp includes all meals and field ‘KidFlix’; and ‘Reef Creatures,’ where camp- trips, and space is limited. ers will pay a virtual visit to the beaches Kids ‘R’ Kids Valrico is located at 4321 in Australia, including a deep dive into the Lynx Paw Trl. and can be reached at 657Great Barrier Reef and a chance to learn 6200, and Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk is about a variety of ocean creatures that call located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia it home. The week will include beach games and can be reached at 654-7000.
Summer camp is “We will have a DJ sure to be a hit at at the start of the Brandon’s High 5, Inc. week to do the ‘MunThe camp, which inster Drill,’” added Nelvites students to sail son. away for the best Camp is offered summer of their lives, Monday through Friwill kick off on Tuesday from 7 a.m.-6 day, May 31. p.m. at High 5, which According to High 5 is located at 405 BevRegional Director Ererly Blvd. in Brandon. ica Nelson, campers Campers can sign up will be able to choose for weeks throughout different activities the summer or the based on a cruise ship entire summer with theme. sessions starting on “We will have a Tuesday, May 31 and Summer camp at High 5, Inc. will have a cruise itinerary for registration opening in cruise theme this year. each day, but the April. campers will have the There is a $40 regisopportunity to make tration fee per child and their own choices as camp cost $160 a week well,” said Nelson. per child. Camp will consist of High 5, formerly Bran‘The Stern,’ which will be don Sports and Aquatics outside games; ‘The Lido Club (BSAC), has been Deck’ which involves part of the Brandon time in the location’s community since 1963 pool; field trip ‘Excursions’; ‘Creative and was the area’s first multipurpose Cover’; ‘The Plank,’ which are diving facility, dedicated to making positive boards; and ‘Encounters,’ which will in- impacts on the lives of residents in the volve pickleball, swimming and other region and beyond. The site also offers sports and recreation activities. a competitive swimming program, OlymOther features will include a scaven- pic-level diving as well as swimming lesger hunt, dress-up days, various tourna- sons from beginners to adults. ments, bounce houses, a slip and slide, To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org water slides and gaming tournaments. or call 689-0908.
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
THE BRANDON BALLET PRESENTS PRINCESS TEA PARTY FEATURING CINDERELLA By Kathy L. Collins The Brandon Join Cinderella Ballet, estaband her fellow lished in 1993, is princess friends a nonprofit, preas they perprofessional balform excerpts let company that from Cinderella develops and prowhile you and motes opportuniyour guest saties for aspiring vor cupcakes young dancers. As from Sweetie’s a part of its misDelights, finsion, the Brandon Don’t miss the fun of the Brandon Ballet’s annual ger foods and, Princess Tea Party. Ballet provides of course, tea. the community with a number of events There is something for every member of and performances. One of its most popu- the family to enjoy, including immersive lar events is the Princess Tea Party. game time, appearances from your favorThe next Princess Tea Party will fea- ite princesses, raffles and prizes. If you ture Cinderella and will be held on Sun- are looking for a lively, Sunday afternoon day, March 27 at 3 p.m. at The Regent, family outing, look no further than the located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Brandon Ballet’s Princess Tea Party. Tickets are $17.50 plus tax for adults and Hannah Townend with the Brandon children if purchased in advance or $20 Ballet said, “For ballet lovers of any age, plus tax at the door. If tickets are sold the Princess Tea Party is sure to be a out online prior to the event, tickets will Sunday Funday treat.” not be sold at the door. Tickets can be Masks are optional for all Princess Tea purchased by visiting www.brandonbal- Party guests. In order to ensure a safer let.org/events/. gathering, tickets will be limited, so reThere are lots of exciting events and serve your tickets now before it is too performances throughout the Brandon late. Ballet season that bring in audience memAfter you meet Cinderella and her prinbers and supporters alike, but by far the cess friends, make plans to attend the most popular among its young patrons is Brandon Ballet’s presentation of the balthe annual tea parties. The Brandon Bal- let, Cinderella, on Saturday, April 30 at let staff and dancers revel in the pleasure Riverview High School in Riverview. of providing such sweet events for young For more information, visit www.Branballet lovers and their families. donBallet.org or call 684-4282.
Ages 8 - 18
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GET READY TO ROCK YOUR SUMMER WITH THE FAOPA AT MUSIC SHOWCASE
By Amy Schechter
Want the perfect place to make memories and music? The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase offers a magical summer camp experience for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and
FAOPA summer camp sign-ups start soon.
half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer. Debbie Evans, director of accounts, cannot stress how wonderful the experience is: “It’s more than just learning about music or learning how to sing. Kids are gaining self-confidence and self-esteem. They blossom into performers who like music and like being on stage.” The traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. Every few hours, students can learn an instrument like guitar and drums, take vocal lessons, take acting and improv classes and do arts and crafts. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest.
Their other camp option is a musical theater camp. Campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show. They will memorize lines, music and choreography. This summer, depending on the camper’s age, they will perform Newsies Jr., Oklahoma! Youth Edition, Bye Bye Birdie Youth Edition, Big the Musical, High School Musical 2 Jr., Fiddler on the Roof Jr. and Broadway Boot Camp. Sanchez went on to say, “If you do the musical camps, you’re learning about teamwork in an ensemble. A lot of parents are always so surprised. They had no idea their child had it within them when they see them perform.” Campers must bring their own lunches, drinks and snacks, with snacks also available for purchase. The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was established to support the performing arts through programs at the academy and in the community. Camp registration opens in mid-March. For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
Summer Camp Options Competitive Girls and Boys Teams
Summer Boot Camps (June/July)
Several skill specific sessions to hone a current skill or come to ALL and learn all aspects of volleyball positions. For beginner/intermediate and advanced players. This is a low commitment but high energy and fast paced skill building. A great way to learn or to continue to improve over the summer.
College Clinics (June/July)
Last year we welcomed both Webber International University and Warner University head coaches to host a college clinic for players in our area. This was for girls and boys and had beach and indoor volleyball opportunities.
Open Gym (June/July)
$10 Open Gyms- both beginner and intermediate advanced. If you want to have some fun give volleyball a try, make some friends in the process this is a great start for you. This open gym also gives you an opportunity to meet our amazing coaching staff and learn some quick basic skills.
High School and Middle School Dust off (Late July)
This is a targeted clinic designed to refresh and remind players of what High School and Middle School volleyball coaches are looking for. From skills, techniques even body language. Let us help you dust off your skills as you prepare for your schools volleyball tryouts.
Your One Stop Shop for all things VOLLEYBALL! Summer Camps • Fall Leagues • Team Camps • Skills Clinics Positional Trainings • Training for ALL Skill Levels
Visit Our Website For More Information!
813-220-0905 | HurricaneVolleyballAcademy.com
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
HCC KIDS’ COLLEGE YOUTH SUMMER DISNEY CHARACTERS RETURN TO TAMPA IN MARCH FOR LET’S CELEBRATE PROGRAM RETURNS FOR ITS EIGHTH YEAR Staff Report
Staff Report
The celebration of the century comes alive in Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate, and this monumental ice-skating spectacular visits AMALIE Arena from Thursday to Sunday, March 24-27. Audiences will be a part of the magic of Disney as Mouse-ter of Ceremonies Mickey Mouse leads a parade of more than 50 beloved characters starring Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy and featuring an ensemble of Disney Princesses, including Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel, Snow White and Tiana. The wintry wonderland of Disney’s Frozen also comes to life with Anna, Elsa and the hilarious Olaf as they discover that true love is the greatest magic of all. Exciting moments from Disney Pixar’s Finding Dory, Disney’s Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast will leave the whole family with memories to last a lifetime. The legacy of Disney is displayed through 14 classic and modern stories in this production that features an international team of award-winning figure skaters, high-energy choreography and a breathtaking set. With over 30 melodious masterpieces such as “Let It Go!,” “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Hakuna Matata,” Disney On Ice Let’s Celebrate is the ultimate Disney fan experience. Families will join the fun in an exciting opening number that salutes Mickey Mouse
and Minnie Mouse as the original hosts of Disney On Ice in an unforgettable experience in your hometown. While delivering the same magical experiences guests expect from Disney On Ice, Feld Entertainment is continuing Guest Wellness Enhancements to help keep families safe at its live events. Feld Entertainment is working closely with venue partners to establish and follow COVID-19 health and safety standards in accordance with all federal, state and local guidelines. Full details on Feld Entertainment Guest Wellness Enhancements can be found at https://www.disneyonice. com/guest-wellness. Guests looking to purchase Disney On Ice souvenirs will find the process easier than ever thanks to a new contactless shopping experience with touch-free payment and digital purchasing options. Guests can preorder items prior to arriving at the venue. Once ordered, guests can pick up their purchases at a convenient, contactless pickup station during the show. Additional information can be found at www.disneyonice.com/tickets. The shows will take place on Thursday, March 24 and Friday, March 25 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 26 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 27 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at AMALIE Arena, located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa.
Kids’ College at Hillsborough Community College (HCC) is returning this summer for its eighth year. HCC Kids’ College offers a variety of fun, engaging, learning-based summer programs for youth ages 8-15. The Youth Summer Program will begin the week of Monday, June 6 and run through the week of Monday, July 25. All programs will take place at Kids’ College at Hillsborough Community College (HCC) is returning this summer for its eighth year. HCC’s Corporate Training Center - Davis Islands, located at ed on March 1. For a complete listing of 39 Columbia Dr. in Tampa. classes, dates and times, please visit tampaFor youth ages 8-11, there will be a wide training.com/kids-college. range of options ranging from a STEAM The Institute for Corporate and Continuthree-week summer series, game design, ing Education (ICCE) is Hillsborough Comcoding, streamers and gamers, sign lan- munity College’s corporate training arm that guage, chess, hip-hop dance and young provides customized business solutions for entrepreneur’s class. For youth ages 12-15, local companies and individuals. Kids’ College will offer a four-week series Hillsborough Community College serves on youth empowerment, digital design and more than 42,000 students annually at its babysitting certificate class. five campuses located throughout Tampa “Our high-quality camps help children and Bay. For more information, visit hccfl.edu. teens develop new skills and interests outHillsborough Community College is acside of their usual routines,” said Ronkel Wil- credited by the Southern Association of Colliams, business and community development leges and Schools Commission on Colleges officer of ICCE. “We strive to make the ex- (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. perience exciting and educational for every Parents with questions on the summer camper.” programs can email kidscollege@hccfl.edu Full-day classes start at $175 per week or call 259-6010. and will run from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Half-day The program is also hiring volunteers. classes will run from either 9 a.m.-12 Noon Apply for part-time assistant and seasonal or from 1-4 p.m. Discounts and payment camp leader positions at jobs.hccfl.edu. To plans are available. Early-bird discount end- learn more, contact kidscollege@hccfl.edu.
(Ages K-5)
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
MAGNET CHOICE WINDOW OPENS
By Michelle Caceres
Hillsborough County your student is interested Public Schools’ second in this school, you should magnet, school choice and definitely apply.” choice hardship applicaFor leaders at Hillstion window for the 2022borough County Public 2023 school year opens on Schools, it’s all about Wednesday, March 23 and choice. Parents can runs through Saturday, choose from various April 2, giving students schools based on their the opportunity to enroll in child’s interests and way elementary, middle or high of learning. Options can school magnet programs The second magnet, school choice be based on location, inand choice hardship application or schools outside their terests, curriculum or window opens on Wednesday, neighborhood boundaries. system of learning (either March 23. With 38 national and brick-and-mortar or virglobal award-winning magnet schools that tual schools). boast more than 80 programs for students, School choice enrollment for elementary there’s something for everyone, including and middle magnet schools is determined science, technology, engineering and math- via a computerized lottery system that sorts ematics (STEM); fine and performing arts; through all applications after the window international studies; career and technical closes. Families will receive an email notieducation; and world languages. A 39th fication by late April indicating whether magnet school, Waterset’s soon-to-be- they’ve been accepted to a school of choice. named pre-K-8 magnet school with a ca- The magnet high school process is critepacity of 1,600 students, is slated to open ria-based. in August and will feature an international The first application window ran from studies program that will infuse STEM as October to December. After the lottery, parwell as an arts program. A robotics lab, ents were notified of the results in January. augmented reality lab and arts and graphic There is a brief period of time during which design lab will provide hands-on learning to an offer must be accepted before it expires. students. It will be the first magnet elemen“If you didn’t get an offer in the first aptary school in the SouthShore area and first plication window, your application rolls over pre-K-8 school in Southeastern Hillsborough to the second window so you don’t have to County. reapply,” said Cox. “There are still spots remaining at this For information about SouthShore’s new new school, but we expect to have more magnet school, call 272-4692. To learn applications than available spots,” said Su- about Hillsborough County’s magnet schools, pervisor of Magnet Schools Bob Cox. “If visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/magnet.
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CALLING ALL YOUNG NATURALISTS Staff Report A new program is The curriculum available for young covers three Florida nature enthusiasts ecosystems—upinterested in learning lands, freshwater and more about Florida’s coastal—and includes environment. Inspired lessons on animals, by the Florida Master plants and humans Naturalist Program, living together with this youth program nature. It also introtakes kids ages 10-13 duces participants to The Florida Youth Naturalist Program on a journey through career opportunities Instructor Field Guide, developed by UF/ Florida’s ecosystems. IFAS Extension, Florida 4-H and the Florida in natural resources, The Florida Youth Master Naturalist Program, offers 24 hours ways to give back to Naturalist Program of instruction, including hands-on activities, their community and field trips and more, for kids ages 10-13. Instructor Field outdoor safety. Guide, developed by “Programs like this UF/IFAS Extension, Florida 4-H and the help to create lifelong learners with a curiFlorida Master Naturalist Program, offers osity for exploring,” Johnson said. “We want 24 hours of instruction, including hands-on youth to leave this program and grow as activities, field trips and more. The curricu- young naturalists and budding scientists.” lum is geared toward nonformal instructors The curriculum is available for purchase like Extension agents and nature center ed- by anyone. Everyone is encouraged to beucators that host youth programming but come an endorsed instructor to receive adcould be used by formal educators. ditional resources and evaluation materials. The program is flexible and can be taught Endorsed instructors will be listed on the across the span of a weeklong summer camp program website to help draw participants or spread over several months for groups to the program. that may meet monthly. It’s also adaptable “This project has been in the works for a to younger ages if needed. long time, and we’re excited to get it in the “This is a critical age to expose youth to hands of educators around the state,” said environmental appreciation and develop an Johnson. “We hope to continue modifying understanding of the natural world,” said and updating it over time so it stays releShelly Johnson, UF/IFAS Extension state vant. Then, we hope to develop curriculum specialized agent in natural resources. “We for the 14 to 17-year-old age group too.” want youth to understand and appreciate For more information on the program, to nature to ingrain a conservation ethic in become an endorsed instructor, visit https:// them. Then, they grow up to be adults that programs.ifas.ufl.edu/florida-youth-naturalcare about Florida’s natural resources.” ist-program.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
THE VILLAGE PLAYERS PRESENT THE SOUND OF MUSIC By Kathy L. Collins The Village Players will present The Sound of Music in the historic James McCabe Theater, located at 506 N. 5th St. in Valrico, this March. Despite many obstacles, the biggest being COVID-19, The Village Players is ready to wow the audience with its rendition of The Sound of Music. The Sound of Musicwill be presented on Friday, March 11, 18 and 25 and Saturday, March 12, 19 and 26. The doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the curtain is at 8 p.m. The Village Players will offer two matinees at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 13 and 20. Regular admission tickets are $18. For children, students, seniors and military with ID, tickets are $15. For groups of 10 or more, seating reservations must be prepaid and are available by calling Chris at the box office at 4803147. To purchase tickets in advance, call the box office or visit www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com. The Sound of Music is a Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Broadway musical. It is based on a 1949 memoir written by Maria Augusta von Trapp, The Story of the Trapp Family Singers. The book describes the life of the von Trapp family, from their beginnings in Salzburg, Austria to their adventures in America, where they escaped from Nazi-invaded Europe. The story reflects on family tragedies, victories and the kindness of strangers who soon became friends to the young family.
Gail Pierce, producer for The Village Players, said, “This is our second attempt to breathe life into this classic. We, like so many others, had to close until COVID was under control. I believe our patrons will find
The Village Players will present the classic musical The Sound of Music, featuring the seven von Trapp children, this March at its theater, located in the historic James McCabe Theater at 506 N. 5th St. in Valrico.
it worth the wait.” Pierce added, “The cast are all ‘in’ and have given this show 100 percent.” Domin Pazzo, director of The Sound of Music, is a veteran of the stage and The Village Players. “We were three weeks away from opening in April 2020, then COVID hit, so this show was two years in the making. I have some new cast members but a lot of my original cast members from 2020 came back. I am so glad to finish this journey with them,” Pazzo said. Pazzo added, “The audience will see a lot of hard work paying off. My seven von Trapp kids are so good and ready to perform in front of people.” For more information, please visit www. thevillageplayersvalrico.com.
Volume 17, Issue 3
KRAZY KUP TO OFFER CLEAN COMEDY SHOW THIS MARCH By Kathy L. Collins Krazy Kup, an old-world, authentic coffee- Kup. house located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Krazy Kup is owned and operated by in historic downtown Plant City, is at it again Frank, Wenda and Joshua Trunzo. The Trunwith some great entertainment for the local zos believe in community and are naturally committed to always being family friendly to all ages, young and old. Whether it is foot-stompin’ music, presents laughing out loud or showing off n ea $20 your talent, a visit to Krazy Kup on l C any day might just make your day. What makes this place really unique is the variety of entertainAs seen On ment the Trunzos present. They offer a monthly open mic night, bluegrass jam, trivia night, retro movie night and local up-and-coming bands of all genres. They occasionally slip in Plant City’s own Krazy Kup, located at 101 E. J. Arden a fun-filled lip-sync night that is alMays Blvd. in Plant City, will offer area residents the ways very entertaining. In addition, chance to see some really unique and funny comedy there are great prizes at many of their when it presents Clean Comedy on Saturday, March 19 events. at 7 p.m. in the Loft On top of Krazy Kup’s award-wincommunity. This time, Krazy Kup will pres- ning coffee drinks, the ambiance and welent Clean Comedy on Saturday, March 19 come feeling match the quality of what it beginning at 7 p.m. in the Loft at Krazy Kup. serves. You can get great hot and cold drinks, Krazy Kup’s Clean Comedy, hosted by freshly baked pastries, gourmet wraps and Gordon Davis, will feature comedians Rod- salads. You will not want to miss the largest ney Norman and Donnie Stopa. Norman has selection of biscotti found anywhere in the been delighting audiences for over 20 years. world. He has a unique and surprising presence and The Trunzos said, “If you have not yet is a former Marine who has a Bachelor of heard about Krazy Kup, which is located one Science degree in philosophy. Stopa started block from the train museum in downtown doing comedy at an early age. He formed historic Plant City, you are missing out on his first comedy band in the fifth grade and one of the really fun and friendly coffeehoushis style is observational yet engaging, so he es in the Tampa Bay area.” always connects with his audience and delivFor more information on Clean Comers the laughs. edy and on Krazy Kup’s offerings, please Both Norman and Stopa have been seen follow them on Facebook and Instagram. on Dry Bar, Roku, TikTok, Prime Video and For the event’s page on Facebook and tickYouTube. et purchasing, visit www.facebook.com/ Tickets to the show start at $20 and can events/291522299741261/. be purchased through Eventbrite or at Krazy
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
THE BAY AREA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL RETURNS FOR ITS 44TH YEAR By Libby Hopkins The Bay Area Area RenaisRenaissance Fessance Festival tival returns for brings some of its 44th season the most unique from February entertainment, 19 to Sunday, shopping and April 3. The feseducational tival is open on opportunities,” weekends from Whipps said. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., “Each weekend rain or shine, features a difand is located ferent theme at Withlacoochwith specialized ee River Park in e n te r t a i n e r s , Dade City. “Join vendors and arKing Henry the tisans who help 8th and the Vilbring the theme lagers of Fittleto life. This The Bay Area Renaissance Festival returns for its 44th worth as they season from February 19 to Sunday, April 3. The festival year’s theme invite one and all is open on weekends from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., rain or shine, weekends are to the magical and is located at Withlacoochee River Park in Dade City Wine, Romance 16th-century Eu& Song, Highropean village featuring 15 land Fling, Pirates & Pups, Barbarian stages of exciting entertainment, in- Brew Fest, Shamrocks & Shenanigans, cluding musicians, magicians, jugglers and High Seas Adventure and Wonders of the more,” said the festival’s corporate compli- World.” ance and communications director, StephJousting is the one of the festival’s most anie Whipps. “More than 100 artisans will popular attractions, and it happens three fill the festival marketplace to display and times a day during the festival. The first sell their handcrafted goods for a truly match is at 1 p.m. and then the second is fabulous and endless shopping experience. at 3 p.m. The final match of the day is at 5 Our guests will interact with memorable p.m. The jousting matches are free to atcharacters and enjoy full-contact, live, ar- tend with your purchased festival ticket. mored jousting, seven theme weekends Adult tickets are $22.95, seniors are and fabulous food fit for a king or queen.” $18.95, children ages 5-12 are $14.95 and The first weekend of the 2022 Bay Area children ages 4 and under are free. Visit Renaissance Festival kicked off on Febru- the festival’s website at www.bayarearenary 19 and will run for seven weekends fest.com or call 1-800-601-4848 for more (Saturdays and Sundays) through April 3. information. Withlacoochee River Park is “A festival tradition for 44 years, the Bay located at 12838 Auton Rd. in Dade City.
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SUN ‘N FUN AEROSPACE EXPO IS ‘WHERE IT’S AT’
Staff Report
The SUN ‘n FUN Competition and Aerospace Expo is more. There is lots once again taking of food options and to the skies over daily live entertainLakeland from ment across 2,000 Tuesday to Sunacres of fun. day, April 5-10, The SUN ‘n FUN celebrating the Fly-In Style annual comradery Pilot Proof aviation. This gram is new year’s expo will be The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo will for 2022 also celebrating take place in Lakeland from Tuesday and will recthe 75th anniverognize and to Sunday, April 5-10. sary of the U. S. reward pilots that Air Force, which will be highlighted by a fly their aircraft to the event, including pidemonstration from the USAF Thunder- lots flying right seat, with deals and disbirds in their first appearance since 2016. counts throughout the week. Marking its 48th year, this event is the priFor this year’s military air show commary fundraiser for the Aerospace Center ponent, it will be a U.S. Air Force trifecta. for Excellence, which enables the delivery The USAF Air Demonstration Squadron of STEM-related and aerospace education Thunderbirds will take flight in their preprograms and scholarships engaging over mier multirole fighter jet, the F-16 Fight50,000 local youth each year. ing Falcon. The aggressive USAF A-10 The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is a six- Warthog, a primary low-altitude, close air day, aviation-nirvana event for 225,000 support aircraft, will be showing off its attendees plus millions more via the pow- unique combat capabilities. If you prefer er of social media. Touted as the largest heavy metal, the C-17 Globemaster III, aka annual convention in the State of Florida ‘The Moose,’ will be part of a multi-aircraft as well as the second largest general avia- static display. tion event in the world, attendees are enIn addition to the daily high-adrenaline couraged to take advantage of the training air shows, there are two-night shows with forums, hands-on workshops and aircraft lights and fireworks flying their routines to demonstration showcases. There’s plenty music and an artistic drone show. of engaging activities for the public of all There are many ticket options available ages to enjoy. The activities are scheduled including Florida resident, senior and milifrom sunrise until after sunset and most tary. On-site camping is also a fun way to are included with the ticket purchase. never miss a minute of the excitement. In keeping with this year’ theme of The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is be‘Where It’s At,’ the expo has over 500 ing held on the south side of the Lakeland exhibitors, many plane manufacturers, Linder International. For more informaa three-day career fair, a National STOL tion, including ticket prices, visit flysnf.org.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
March 2022
ONCE AN EAGLE, ALWAYS AN EAGLE By Libby Hopkins Brandon High “At the same time, School (BHA) is a another traditional place where stuevent tied to BHS, dents excel; are emthe Grand Reunion, powered through was in need of help clear academic, sowith their annual cial and emotional spring affair,” Roexpectations; have driguez said. “With a growth mindset; many of the same and a have toolbox Each year, the alumni of Brandon High School members in both come together to celebrate the school and the of resources to reach organizations, it Brandon community. The Brandon Area Comtheir why. made sense to community Picnic is an annual potluck gathering Originally opened bine the two, and of BHS alumni and longtime residents of the in 1914 on the curthe Grand Reunion Greater Brandon area rent site of McLane members were inMiddle School, in vited to be a part of 1972, the school the Old Timers’ fesmoved to its current tivities.” location on Victoria Members voted St. on a new name at Each year, the the 2010 event and alumni of Brandon the Brandon Area High School come Community Picnic together to celewas created. brate the school and “The picnic has its the Brandon comown board of direcmunity. tors made up of BHS “The Brandon Area Community Picnic is alumni members,” Rodriguez said. “Originalan annual potluck gathering of BHS alumni ly, the gathering was for people who resided and longtime residents of the Greater Bran- in the area since 1955 but now welcomes don area,” said Karen Rodriguez, host of the area residents of 20 years and longer, and annual picnic. “Originally called The Greater all BHS alumni and their families.” Brandon Old Timers Association, the conAnnual attendance is approximately 150, cept of the get-together was conceived in and it is held each April. “The only cost is a 1978 at the 50th anniversary celebration of covered dish,” Rodriguez said. the Brandon Woman’s Club. It was designed Keeping with tradition, the picnic annualas a way to keep up with old friends and ly features music, memories and a bountiful high school pals. The annual gatherings be- buffet of homemade food. gan a few weeks later with the first potluck This year’s picnic will be held on Saturday, picnic was held.” April 9 at the Brandon Elks Lodge, located With members aging and in need of at 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. in Brandon. someone to manage the yearly event, the The picnic will begin at 11 a.m. If you would Brandon High School Alumni Association like to learn more about the picnic or atbegan sponsoring the Old Timers in 2009. tend, contact Karen Rodriguez at 431-7484.
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WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CENTER PLACE: ART CAMPS & SO MUCH MORE
By Libby Hopkins
Summer is just a 10-14 years old. few short months Center Place’s away, so to get summer art camps ready for summer, cost $125 per Center Place Fine camper and the Arts & Civic Assocamp times are 8 ciation is excited a.m.-1 p.m. All the to offer two awecamps’ supplies some summer art are included, but camps. In June, campers do need Center Place will Summer art camps and new classes are happening to bring their own at Center Place. offer its Jumplunches. Camps are Start to Art Camp with Docapped at 12 campers each, reen Donovan and Outside so register soon for one of the Lines Summer Art Camp the camps’ weeks because with Alejandro Algarin. “Dothey will fill up quickly. reen was a summer favorite Center Place has a new last year, so she’s back with teacher, Chris Kline, who us at Center Place for two recently joined the staff fun weeks of art camp,” said at Center Place. Kline will Libby Hopkins, Center Place’s be teaching oil painting on executive director. “Doreen’s Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.camps will be June 20-24, 12 Noon and then adult art and the ages for both of her therapy on Wednesday evecamps [are] 6-10 years old. nings from 5-7 p.m. Her second camp will take Kline is currently the presplace on July 18-22, and it’s the same ages ident of the Brandon League of Fine Arts, for that week as well.” The Jump-Start to which has its meetings at Center Place. Art Camp will offer a different form of art “Since Chris is a familiar face at our center, each day, art scavenger hunts and so much it was a natural fit for him to teach these more. two classes at Center Place,” Hopkins said. Center Place’s Outside the Lines Sum- “Chris’ class fees are try-it-one-time for mer Art Camp with Alejandro Algarin $12 or four classes for $45.” will explore the world of street art and If you are interested in registering your cartooning. “Alejandro’s classes are be- children for any of Center Place’s summer coming quite popular at Center Place, so art camps or if you’d like to register for we are thrilled he has decided to offer two Kline’s new classes, you can visit Center art camps this summer at Center Place,” Place’s website at www.centerplacebranHopkins said. “Alejandro’s June camp will don.com or call the center at 685-8888. be June 13-17, and the ages for this camp Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg [are] 6-10 years old. His July camp will be Dr., Ste. B inside the Brandon Regional LiJuly 11-15, and the ages for this camp are brary.
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Brandon/Winthrop
March 2022 Vol 17, Iss 3 25-33
The Lexwerx Law Firm Provides Personalizes Attention The Lexwerx Law Firm was created to provide the personalized attention, disciplined turnaround time, excellence in results and affordable, upfront fee packages that you just don’t get from larger groups. The Lexwerx Law Firm is a veteran-owned and operated, full-service law firm with a strong focus on wills, trusts, estates, guardianships and probates. The Lexwerx Law Firm is located at 1550 W. Cleveland St. in Tampa. For more information, visit its website at www.lexwerx.com or follow on Facebook @TheLexwerxLawFirmLLC.
Visit www.citrushomecenter. com or call 407-680-3014 for more information.
Tracer Inspections Offers Services To Homeowners Tracer Inspections is a one-on-one, customer and service-based company that educates the consumer on the condition, quality and durability of their real estate investment. It offers a variety of inspections, including prepurchase, prelisting and general inspection of current home, all carried out by licensed inspectors. Wind mitigation and roof recertification inspections can also help save homeowners money on their insurance. For more information, visit its website at www.tracPopular Cuban Restaurant Celebrates erinspections.com, call 842-0740 or follow Anniversary on Facebook at https://www. La Septima Cafe is celebrating 27 years facebook.com/Tracer-Inspecin business. It is well known as a Brandon tions-105036448757542. staple for its delicious and authen- Then Barbershop Is There tic Cuban fusion For All Your Barbershop cuisine. After Needs having to close its Then Barbershop is a family-owned busidining room due ness where all customers are valued, locatto COVID-19, the ed at 861 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. restaurant pivot- It ensures the best quality of service for all ed to serving fam- customers with the goal of making sure evily meals to take eryone has a great experience when getting home, which remain very popular and are a their hair cut. It is open Monday to Saturday, great deal at only $39.95. La Septima Cafe 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. An was very happy to be able to reopen the din- appointment is not necessary. You can follow ing room for counter service earlier this year it on Facebook @thenbarbershop or call 653and has welcomed many familiar customers 9595 for more information. faces back. La Septima Cafe is located at 702 W. Flower Me Tampa Wants To Be Part Of Lumsden Rd. in the La Viva Plaza in Brandon. Your Next Big CeleFor more information, visit its website at bration www.laseptimacafe.com or call 685-0502. Flower Me Tampa Décor and Rentals creCitrus Home Center Buys Mobile ates beautiful flower Homes walls and much more Citrus Home that will add an elegant Center was ambiance to any special founded as a occasion. It specializes full-service moin creating stylish flower walls and custom bile home dealletters and number BloomBoards that will ership based in set your event apart from others, adding that Central Florida. unique touch to dinner parties, weddings, It invests in used/unwanted mobile homes graduations, baby showers, quinceañeras, as well as land with mobile homes on it. No birthday celebrations, anniversaries, corpotitle? No problem, it can resolve most issues. rate events and more. Its team is dedicated to making the selling Flower Me Tampa is located at 1508 experience as easy as possible with cash of- Windy Gap Pl. in Valrico. More information fers tailored to meet your needs while build- can be found on its website at www.flowering lasting relationships with valued clients. metampa.com and by calling 716-9811.
Preston Oaks Model Home Now Open Meritage Homes has announced the opening of a new model home in its Preston Oaks location in Brandon. The premier location is convenient to I-4, I-75 and the Selmon Expressway, and it offers quick access to Tampa and Brandon’s many shopping, dining and entertainment venues. This new development features single-car garage townhomes in an intimate setting and a simple buying process with clear pricing and no surprises. The sales center is located at 2719 Chestnut Creek Pl. in Brandon and can be contacted at 877-275-6374. More information can be found on the website at www.meritagehomes.com/state/fl/ tampa/preston-oaks. Home Helpers Home Care Of Brandon Earns Best Of Home Care Provider Of Choice Award Home Helpers Home Care is pleased to announce that its East Tampa franchise has been named a Provider of Choice in the 2022 Best of Home Care Awards. Home Helpers Home Care offers the industry’s leading model for comprehensive care with its unique care program that provides the necessary components for living independently. This includes personal care and companionship, nutrition and meal planning, 24/7 emergency response and wellness calls to help ensure medications and hydration are maintained. “It’s an honor to be recognized. This award is based on feedback from our clients, it’s not something we applied for or sent in our own data to earn, so it’s a true reflection of the wonderful care our caregivers provide,” said Ursella Slusher, owner of Home Helpers Home Care of East Tampa. To find out more about Home Helpers Home Care, visit its website at www.homehelpershomecare. com/east-tampa.
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Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility Wins Best Of Senior Living Award Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility was recently awarded the Best of Senior Living Award by A Place for Mom for the fourth year in a row. Dorothy Cares has two locations, 11626 Tropical Isle Ln. and 10427 Crestfield Dr., both in Riverview. Each location offers individualized personal and skilled nursing care in private and semiprivate rooms in a homelike setting with home cooked food. Owner Dorothy Araujo said, “With this coronavirus pandemic, it’s been a rough year, but through it all we have kept all of our residents coronavirus-free at both locations. I am so Meticulous Jess Marketing Is Effiproud of all cient And Effective our accomMeticulous Jess Marketing is owned plishments by Jessica Edwards and is the place and all my to go for all your consulting, digital staff.” Addimarketing, graphic design and busitional inforness photography needs. The agency mation on is dedicated to helping bring prosperity to Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility can be the community by helping local businesses found on its website, www.dorothycaresalf. grow. It helps to create comprehensive, cus- com, or by calling 862-8871.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
March 2022
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
AMAZON ANNOUNCES COLLEGE TUITION FOR MORE THAN 750,000 EMPLOYEES Staff Report Amazon anmake it easy for nounced recently employees to admore than 140 vance their educacolleges and unition—even building versities that the classrooms on-site company will partin many of its buildner with to provide ings. Employees can fully funded college take classes online, tuition to their in person at a local more than 750,000 university or on-site Amazon recently announced more than 140 hourly employees. in one of the over In Florida, employ- colleges and universities that the company will 110 Career Choice ees will have access partner with to provide fully funded college tuition classrooms located in to their more than 750,000 hourly employees. to education from fulfillment centers in the University of Florida, Florida Interna- 37 states. Since launching in 2012, Career tional University, the University of Central Choice has helped provide education for Florida, Miami Dade College, Hillsborough more than 50,000 employees. As of this anCommunity College, Polk State College, Va- nouncement, Amazon’s Career Choice prolencia College, Florida State College at Jack- gram works with more than 180 education sonville as well as national online education providers across the U.S., which, along with providers, including Southern New Hamp- colleges and universities, includes partners shire University, Colorado State University providing industry certifications, English – Global, Western Governors University and language proficiency and high school comNational University. Amazon will also part- pletion programs. Career Choice is one of ner with GEDWorks and Smart Horizons nine free skills training and education proto provide employees with free high school grams that Amazon offers to its employees completion and GED preparation, Voxy En- as part of its Upskilling 2025 pledge. Gen and goFLUENT to provide English lan“As an Amazon employee, I’m excited to guage proficiency training and Outlier to participate in the enhanced Career Choice provide college preparation courses. program,” said Francisco Ortega, fulfillment These new partnerships are part of Am- employee at Amazon’s Opa-locka facility. azon’s continued investment in its Career “When I heard Amazon was expanding CaChoice program, which now offers fully reer Choice, I knew this would be a great opfunded college tuition, allows employees to portunity for me to learn new skills and ultiparticipate every year they work at Amazon mately grow to the next level in my career.” and gives them eligibility after only 90 days Amazon pays employees an average startof employment. Through Career Choice, em- ing wage of $18 per hour, which is more than ployees can pursue a bachelor’s degree, earn double the federal minimum wage, and proindustry certifications leading to in-demand vides comprehensive health benefits, paid jobs and build skills through English lan- time off, up to 20 weeks fully paid parental guage proficiency and high school comple- leave and additional benefits for employees tion programs. and their families. Visit www.aboutamazon. With Career Choice, Amazon works to com/news/workplace/career-choice.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 17, Issue 3
