Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop May 2023

ESE EDUCATORS CEREMONY NOTES EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION AND SUPPORT

Forty-four educators in Southeastern Hillsborough County were among the 155 professionals and groups recognized at the 24th annual Excellence in Action awards ceremony at The Regent in Riverview on May 8, produced by Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS).

The ceremony for award nominees devoted to exceptional student education (ESE) opened with the Bloomingdale High School Air Force JROTC color guard and included entertainment from the Kingswood Elementary School pre-K ESE class under the direction of Rebecca Oakeson. The Newsome High Buddies Club, under Donna Hart, performed as well, with the club described as “a life-changing experience that results in lasting friendships and awareness about students with intellectual disabilities.”

Under the guidance of Michael Farley, nominees received handcrafted buttons created by Raider Nation Enterprise, the business run by transition students at Plant City High School. “These students learn how to run and operate all aspects of the business, from creative arts, production, budgeting and selling the product,” said FDLRS ESE parent liaison Christine Poe.

Among the 11 award recipients in nine categories were Carole Fernandez of Eisenhower Exceptional Center for administration; paraprofessional Dawn Tabor of York Innovation Academy for support staf; and Allen Ross of Lennard High School for ESE secondary teachers.

“I was not expecting it at all, I really wasn’t,” Ross said. “It’s a great honor. Every day, I look forward to coming to work because of how the students are and how

By Linda Chion

much they love you. They just appreciate everything that you do for them.”

In a letter of recommendation, Tabor was recognized for helping a child who said she was “locked away in anxiety, frustration and loneliness,” as she was “acting out from pure frustration brought on by missing out on two years of school.” She said her parents would put her to bed every night “in tears because they didn’t know how to get the ‘old Sammy’ back.” The letter notes that Tabor “may never know how much I needed her, but my parents do, and they thank her with all their hearts as they sit and write this paragraph with joyful tears of relief.”

In a special presentation, attorney T. Edmund Spinks received the Millie Bucy Positive Parent Involvement Award, named in honor of the founding FDLRS parent services manager. The award “celebrates the success that can be achieved when parents work in a positive and collaborative efort,” Poe said.

Special thanks were given to the students and teachers at Caminiti Exceptional Center for the handcrafted awards created by Caminiti Sparkles. Also noted were Blake High School for event photography and Durant High culinary arts students for preparing and serving event refreshments.

As for Bloomingdale JRTOC cadets, they “take great pride and dedication to present the cloth of our nation,” said FDLRS ESE parent liaison Jennifer Belinc-DeGregori. who noted that the group competed in nine competitions they earned 25 trophies for drill, color guard, fitness and marksmanship.

BRANDON SENIOR SLOW-PITCH SOFTBALL FLOURISHES AND CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY

The Brandon Senior Softball Association is celebrating its 20th year of providing the opportunity for senior softball players (men ages 60 and up and women ages 55 and up) to play the kids’ game we love.

With the support of the Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation Department, games are played on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 9 a.m. year-round at the county’s well-maintained regulation fields at the William Owen Pass Sports Complex, located at 1300 Sydney Dover Rd. in Dover. Over 100 players throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Polk counties, and even some from up north, gather for batting practice and games in the present eight-team league with competitive balance in a recreational league concept. Batting practice and pickup games are available on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday mornings.

Phil Grassmuck, president of the association, said, “The purpose of the league is to provide for its members so that they may enjoy good fellowship, enhance their well-being through physical exercise, promote 60-plus softball (55 for females) and enjoy playing slow-pitch softball. This league is for fun and recreation.”

From the grand celebration and opening games on August 27, 2003, the league has developed into a caring community, a family of comrades, providing encouragement for retirees to stay active and young

By Taylor Wells

in spirit; it’s a little league for old guys with a touch of competitiveness. Nothing beats post-game lunching and domino playing with tall tales of game replays.

It is not unusual when a player becomes ill or injured and has no family nearby for another player to take him in until recovery. The league supports various charitable projects, on occasion makes contributions honoring deceased members and responds en masse for memorial services.

“My favorite part of the league is comradery,” Grassmuck added, “and the fun of the guys playing ball.”

The 20th anniversary party will be held on Tuesday and Thursday, October 24 and 26 at the field, with current and former players, presidents and board members, as well as guests, honoring the league founders and renewing friendships from over the years with lunch and reminiscing after a week of softball skills, home-run derby and allstar games. Current and past league members will also get special shirts.

IN THIS ISSUE:

PET RESOURCE CENTER PG 3

ALL PRO DAD PG 5

BULLFROG CREEK PG 9

EYE ON BUSINESS PGS 25-26

BRANDON AUTO PG 26

With little to almost no rainfall at allthis year, Hillsborough County reminds residents to conserve water and review their watering days and hours. Visit hcfgov.net/waterrestrictions or call 813-663-3295 to confrm your allowable watering days and hours and fnd additional rules concerning hand watering, watering of new sod and landscaping, car washing, pressure washing and using reclaimed water for irrigation. Te full article can be found on Page 18.

Brandon Senior Softball Association members ready to start batting practice.

A photo of Brandon Senior Softball Association members from the early days of the league.

York Innovation Academy Principal Missy Lennard, right, celebrates with VE educator Christina Turner the award granted to, and held by, paraprofessional Dawn York.

PET OWNERS CAN TURN TO THE HILLSBOROUGH PET RESOURCE CENTER IN TIMES OF NEED

The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, located at 440 N. Falkenberg Rd. in Tampa, is the only open-admission facility in the county. This means that they will accept any cat or dog regardless of breed, size and medical condition. No animal is ever turned away.

Scott Trebatoski is the director of the Resource Center.

About eight years ago, the name was changed to the current name. Trebatoski explained, “We want all pet owners to know that we are the first-place pets. We are here to help, and if we cannot, we will refer the owner to somewhere that can.”

Prior to the pandemic, under Trebatoski’s direction, the Pet Resource Center developed a pet retention program. Trebatoski explained, “We work with individual pet owners for the purpose of making sure the owner can retain the pet. If the owner feels they need to give up the pet due to reasons such as financial issues, we will work to get the pet stable and keep them in the shelter, or, if we need to, send the pet to a foster home. The owner can then get the pet back once their issues are resolved.”

In addition to this program, if a pet

By Kathy L. Collins

owner is in need of food for the pet, it has a food pantry for pets. Trebatoski said, “If, for example, someone is getting Meals on Wheels, we do not want them giving half of their food to their pet.” You can also get a pet gate, crate or bowls if you need them. The center gets a lot of donations for those in need. Trebatoski said, “This community is very animal friendly.”

The Pet Resource Center will work with pet owners in order to protect the community. As such, if a pet needs a rabies shot, they will get it. If there are behavior issues, it can help with that too.

According to Trebatoski, it is working to implement a program where pets can get a microchip for free. If a pet gets lost, animal control can return the pet. Trebatoski said, “Underserved communities would be served by such a program because they often face transportation issues.”

The bottom line is that pets are very important to those who have them, and it is economically efcient to help pet owners keep their pets rather than shelter them. For more information, please visit www. Hillsboroughcounty.org or call 813-PETS (7387).

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN TEACHER RETIRES AFTER 42 YEARS IN TEACHING

Helping to brighten young minds for over 40 years, Peggy Rankin is ofcially retiring from her teaching position at Immanuel Lutheran School at the close of the 2022-23 academic year. Having joined the Immanuel Lutheran staf in 1996, Rankin remains appreciative of all the creative opportunities and growth her time at the school ofered her.

Receiving a double major in elementary education and physical education from Concordia University Chicago, Rankin began her career by teaching in Wilmington, Illinois. Enjoying the community connections within the small town, she taught middle school P.E. and worked as an athletic director.

After relocating to Tampa Bay, Rankin pursued a fourth grade teaching opportunity at Robles Elementary for a year before settling down at Limona Elementary for three years as a fifth grade teacher. Despite having been awarded teacher of the year during her final year at Limona, Rankin cited a strange twist in fate as the reason for landing a position at Immanuel Lutheran.

While walking across the church grounds after the service one day, Rankin encountered a friend from college who had gone on to teach at Immanuel Lutheran herself. Intending to relocate, her friend suggested Rankin take up her position. At that same moment, the principal of Immanuel Lutheran came down the church steps and extended Rankin an opportunity to interview. Believing it was her time to give back, Rankin

By Madeline Gardner

accepted the job. Her first few roles at the school ranged from covering seventh grade science, eighth grade math, seventh and eighth grade computer classes and five P.E. courses while helping coach athletics. Within her first year, she established the school’s student council. Further developing a legacy for herself, she also initiated the field day tradition that same year, providing students across various grades the chance to work with one another. Along the way, she became the athletic director, a position she had there for 17 years.

Ultimately becoming a sixth grade homeroom teacher in 2007, Rankin created a classroom treasure box that allowed children to exchange ‘big bucks,’ a reward for completing homework or helping out a fellow student, for a prize. Realizing her students were learning a valuable lesson on how to count and save, she founded Immanuel Lutheran’s superstore and opened it once a month for about 12 years with help from church volunteers and her own parents.

“The thrill that you get when you’re teaching a student and they get it. All of a sudden, the lightbulb goes on, and they’re like ‘oh’ — I will miss that,” said Rankin. “Because that’s really joyful.”

Rankin’s colleagues have currently created a Kudoboard for members of the community to post send-of messages. Visit www. kudoboard.com/boards/Jt3vMVU2#view.

4.80 4.95 4.95 6-month

3-month 1-year

3-month 4.45 6-month 4.65 1-year 4.75

%

%

% APY*

Peggy Rankin helped continue Immanuel Lutheran School practices, such as taking the sixth grade students to the Luther Springs Campground in Hawthorne as part of their outdoor education.

Te Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, located at 440 N. Falkenberg Rd. in Tampa, is the local resource for pet owners facing a multitude of issues.

ALL PRO DAD CONTINUES GROWTH NATIONWIDE WITH SOLD OUT ANNUAL EVENT

All Pro Dad, a Tampa-based nonprofit, has completed yet another successful event, this time on March 25 at Raymond James Stadium. The sold-out All Pro Dad Experience event had over 1,000 dads and their kids in attendance. Attendees were able to engage in a variety of football-oriented activities from the start at 9 a.m. until the event ended at 12 Noon. There were football drills as well as tickle-tackle and touchdown dancing available across the field; plenty of laughter and smiles were also had.

While All Pro Dad might have started in Tampa, where it operates to this day, it has extended far across the nation, as there are now over 1,000 All Pro Dad chapters across over 40 states. This growth has allowed founder Mark Merrill to impact thousands of children and dads across the country.

“Over 20 years ago, former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy and I founded All Pro Dad. With the mission to help fathers love and lead their families well, All Pro Dad o f ers resources, training and events. We believe a great way to help fathers become even better leaders in their families is by dedicating one minute a day, one hour a month and one day a year to this goal,” Merrill said.

With increasingly large national operations, All Pro Dad continues to maintain a strong presence in the Tampa

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

(never known to fail)

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

T.O.C.M.B.

By Jonathan Hurst

area, having 62 active chapters within Hillsborough County. These chapters have ingrained themselves within the culture of the schools and engage with the dads and kids in several ways, one of which is the breakfast program. Through this program, dads are able to have breakfast at school with their children, which in turn helps build their relationship through one-onone time and camaraderie with other dads and children. Attendance at these events can reach up to 200 dads and kids.

All Pro Dad has recently developed multiple new programs to help foster healthy relationships between dads and their children. One of these is a national curriculum for middle and high schools that allows for the All Pro Dad message to e f ectively reach all ages. An additional program, Serve, gives dads the opportunity to volunteer at the school to allow teachers and administrators to focus on what they do best: helping to provide the best educational environment for the kids. This could be anything from operating the car line in the mornings to lunch assistance, or any other applicable school need.

Through its numerous programs and extensive outreach, All Pro Dad is making a positive impact among youths and hopes to continue to do so in larger and larger ways. For more information, visit its website at www.allprodad.com or its Facebook page, All Pro Dad.

Kids and their dads were able to run out of the tunnel at the All Pro Dad Experience at Raymond James Stadium.

Dads and their kids engage in activities on the feld at Raymond James during the All Pro Dad Experience.

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA’S NEW SEASON CELEBRATES MUSIC OF AMERICA AND BEYOND

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) will celebrate the unique musical language of America in its new 2023-24 season this fall. Inspired by the 100th anniversary of Gershwin’s groundbreaking Rhapsody in Blue, music director

Michael Francis is featuring a wide range of American composers from Aaron Copland to Wynton Marsalis alongside global masterpieces by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Dvorak and more. In September, he launches the premier Hough Family Foundation Masterworks series with a bang: Holst’s The Planets paired with the thrilling Percussion Collective. In the Raymond James Pops series, the circus meets the symphony in Cirque Dances with Troupe Vertigo, in addition to Twist & Shout, a tribute to 60 years of The Beatles in America; a supersonic SciFi Spectacular of space-themed movies and TV music; and the very merry tradition of Holiday Pops.

“This season, we’ll take audiences on a journey across America’s musical landscape as we explore our musical roots and where we are today. Alongside the story of American music, we will delight our Tampa Bay community with beloved classics from around the world,” said Francis. “New this season will be secret ‘mystery pieces’ — moments of discovery and fun that won’t be listed in the program. We remain passionate about reflecting the diferent cultures that make up Tampa Bay and beyond.”

At the heart of TFO’s 56th season, Maestro Francis will conduct featured soloist

Staf Report

Stewart Goodyear in Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue (February 1718, 2024). This masterpiece combined jazz and classical to change music forever when it premiered 100 years ago in 1924.

The concert will spotlight works by three more American composers: Marsalis’ Herald, Holler & Hallelujah; Mason Bates’ Alternative Energy; and Leonard Bernstein’s Three Dance Episodes from On the Town

For the first time ever, all 13 Hough Family Foundation Masterworks concerts will include a surprise, unlisted ‘mystery piece’ personally chosen by Francis.

This October brings another important American masterpiece, Copland’s Appalachian Spring (Saturday and Sunday, October 21-22), showcasing the beauty of the distinctly American sound. The program also features Grammy-nominated baritone Jubilant Sykes performing American spirituals that highlight our African American heritage.

For 2024, more big moments in TFO’s core classical series include Dvorak’s New World Symphony (April 12-14), Beethoven’s heroic Eroica Symphony (April 5-7, 2024), Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 (January 19-20) and Elgar’s Enigma Variations (May 17-19). The series wraps up with Mahler’s epic Symphony No. 2, “Resurrection” (May 25-26), which features the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay.

For more information and season tickets, visit https://floridaorchestra.org/.

DOWNTOWN MURALS CREATE OUTDOOR ART MUSEUM

What do Tom Brady, Tweety Bird and Freddy Mercury all have in common? They are all subjects of murals located in beautiful downtown Tampa.

Whether you drive, bike or scooter, find a beautiful day and trek to the city for a fun and adventurous mural tour.

From Ybor City to the Channelside District to Ashley Street, there is an eclectic collection of art, much of which was commissioned by the City of Tampa. For an interesting and in-depth compilation, you can visit www.tampasdowntown.com or Google Tampa’s Downtown Mural Tour.

To highlight a small, yet dense, sampling of the mural art in Tampa, we start at Cass Street, west of Nebraska Avenue, where you will find the Tampa Firefighters Museum on your left with a beautifully painted flag covering the entire north side of the building. On the right, see one of Tampa’s largest murals on the Navara Apartments, featuring legendary musicians Elton John, Freddie Mercury and Jimi Hendrix.

Head north on to Florida Avenue and discover a plethora of interesting murals,

By Kerrie Hoening

including a few pictures of Tom Brady and the famous Florida Avenue Mural, also known as the ‘Tampa Postcard,’ depicting images of Tampa’s past and present. Head further north, crossing under the I-275 corridor, and you suddenly happen upon a whole new world of wall art on every building. On neighboring Franklin Street, many of the murals cover entire buildings. If driving, you’ll probably need to park and then enjoy a leisurely stroll around the whole block.

After a brief respite at Armature Works, you’ll head south on Tampa Street, driving back toward the city. Here, at 1715 N Tampa St., you will find the poignant Kobe and Gianna Bryant mural, lovingly titled Daddy’s Little Girl. A little further down, you’ll also notice a couple of Tweety Bird murals, freshly painted to celebrate the 80th birthday of Tweety Bird. As you cross back under the interstate, Tampa’s newest mural, only weeks old, can be found on the right, stating the obvious for all who live in our great city, “We Love Downtown.”

Lady Gaga.

Yellow Brick Row.

Maestro Michael Francis, music director at Te Florida Orchestra.

BIKES FOR CHRIST HELPS THOSE WHO TRY TO HELP THEMSELVES

People who are trying to get their lives back on track often find many obstacles, such as lack of transportation, to be an impediment to their goal. In an efort to help those who are trying to help themselves, Bikes

For Christ was established in 2016.

According to the founder, Pat Simmons, “Our goal is to help those who are trying to help themselves.” Simmons added, “We work directly with case managers at agencies that provide services to those in need. If they feel an individual is truly making life-changing decisions for the better, and a bicycle would benefit them, they can place an order with us.”

Bikes For Christ also works with area employers and schools.

An example of this is the work Bikes For Christ does with the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Department in its Reentry and Homeless Initiative. Another example is its work with Cove Behavior Health (formerly known as DACCO). Other organizations include Metropolitan Ministries, Catholic Charities and the Tampa Veterans Administration.

Bikes For Christ is an all-volunteer organization. It has approximately 10-11 volun-

By Kathy L. Collins

teers and has separate team members that work on the bike repairs and the deliveries. It also has volunteers that represent the organization at local chamber meetings and events. These include outreach events, outdoor markets and expos. At these events, the volunteers share the mission of Bikes For Christ.

Bikes For Christ are seeking donations of primarily men’s bikes. You can drop of men’s bikes at several local locations, including Beef ’O’ Brady’s, located at 210 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon; Brandon Bikeworks, located at 6048 Winthrop Town Centre Ave. in Riverview; and Jarrett Scott Ford, located at 2000 E. Baker St. in Plant City. If you cannot drop of your donation of a men’s bike, you can complete a form online to make arrangements for volunteers to pick up the bike.

Please note it is not accepting children’s bikes at this time.

In addition to donations of men’s bikes, Bikes For Christ is also in need of monetary donations. According to Simmons, “Our biggest need right now is a new building so we can continue to help those in need.”

For more information, please visit www. bikes4christ.com.

NEW HORIZONS GROUP HOME CELEBRATES 24 YEARS

New Horizons Group Home has been part of the Brandon community for 24 years. They will be hosting an anniversary luncheon on Saturday, June 10. “This is a great opportunity to learn more about New Horizons and its history that has brought us to where we are today,” said Brenda Watkins of New Horizons Group Home Inc. “There will be a delicious lunch and a short presentation by our residents.”

New Horizons Group Home has been part of the Brandon Community for 24 years. It will be hosting an anniversary luncheon on Saturday, June 10. Tickets for the organization’s upcoming luncheon are $25 for an individual ticket or $175 for a table of eight. Te deadline for purchasing tickets is Saturday, June 3.

In 1992, several parents, teachers and friends of members of the Special Ministries Department of First Baptist Church Brandon identified a need for long-term living facilities for developmentally disabled men and women. A committee was formed to investigate the requirements to undertake this task. Out of this group, New Horizons Group Homes was born.

The mission of New Horizons Group Homes is to provide a family-oriented Christian group home living environment that supports adults with disabilities to help them achieve their highest potential for independence through a variety of services emphasizing faith, family, choice, independence, dignity and respect. “It is amazing to look back to when New Horizons was just an idea with a group of people wanting to make it into a reality,” Watkins said. “We all wanted a Christian home with a family

By Libby Hopkins

atmosphere, and the most important thing to me is that it has remained just that. Our daughter has been in the home since the first one opened in June of 1999, and she loves being there. As parents, my husband and I are so happy when she is at our home and are also happy to see that she loves going back to her home. It has been so heartwarming to see how all of the residents have blossomed over the years. The very best part of this whole experience has been seeing how God has provided for all of our needs.”

New Horizons is home to 16 residents. “We have two homes for men and one for ladies, and we currently have openings for three men,” Watkins said. “Our homes are based on Christian principles and have a family atmosphere where our residents are encouraged to reach their full potential. They have gained a wonderful sense of independence while having 24/7 supervision. Six of our residents work in the community, while the others go to diferent day programs.”

Tickets for the organization’s upcoming luncheon are $25 for an individual ticket or $175 for a table of eight. The deadline for purchasing tickets is Saturday, June 3. If you’d like to learn more about New Horizons Group Homes, visit www.newhorizonshomes.org.

Bikes For Christ works with local organizations, employers and schools to get bikes to people who are trying to make truly life-changing decisions for the better. If a bike will beneft them, they can get a bike.

COME SEE A FANTASTIC MAP

EXHIBIT FEATURING THE FLORIDA KEYS AT THE TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER

By Kathy L. Collins

HILLSBOROUGH 100 CONSERVATION CHALLENGE RECOGNIZES SUPPORT

By Linda Chion

There’s a new exhibit at the Tampa Bay History Center, and it is called Key West and the Florida Keys: Mapping the History of the Conch Republic. The exhibit is on display now through Sunday, October

15 in the Saunders Foundation Gallery.

Key West and the Florida Keys have played an outsized role in Florida’s history. The Keys first appeared on a Spanish map in 1511, and they had been home to the Tequesta and Calusa for thousands of years. In modern times, Key West was at one point the largest city in Florida. It was home to wreckers, cigar makers, fisherfolk and other colorful characters.

The exhibit features historical and modern maps and charts. There are nearly 50 maps and charts in the exhibit. The oldest map is the 1511 Peter Martyr map of the Caribbean, and the newest is a 1988 map showing diferent locations of shipwrecks and (potential) sunken treasure. The History Center may add a 21st-century tourist map.

Every map in the exhibit is from the Tampa Bay History Center’s Touchton Map Library Collection. Rodney Kite-Powell, director of the Touchton Map Library, explained, “The Touchton Map Library and Florida Center for Cartographic Education is the only cartographic center in the southeastern United States and is one of only 14 cartographic centers in the country.”

The Touchton Map Library holds approximately 8,000 maps, charts, atlases and other cartographic materials. All of it focuses on Florida.

Kite-Powell said, “Because of Florida’s unique geographical location and its very long political and military history, the collection includes hundreds of maps of the Caribbean and the southeastern United States. The Touchton Map Library encourages research within the collection and hosts two temporary exhibitions each year. Those exhibitions are held within the Saunders Foundation Gallery.”

Kite-Powell added, “The exhibit showcases the important and interesting history of Key West and the Florida Keys. Key West, in particular, was the most strategic and economically important city in Florida in the latter half of the 19th century. Its isolation and the lack of a reliable and continuous source of fresh water hampered its continued growth and development, and the island city was eventually eclipsed by other coastal cities, particularly Tampa. Shifting to tourism, the Keys and Key West became a playground for Floridians and Americans in general, and today it is one of the largest tourist destinations in the country.”

The Tampa Bay History Center is located at 801 Water St. in downtown Tampa. For more information, please visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org.

Award recipients and supporter testimonials gave color to the stories that unravel annually as part of the Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge, which kicked of with a well-attended luncheon and awards ceremony.

Held this year on April 12 at The Regent in Riverview, Betty Jo Tompkins, executive director of the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District (HSWCD), emceed the ceremony, first held in 2017.

“The idea behind the challenge is at the very core of what our conservation district stands for, and that is that conservation is everybody’s business,” Tompkins said, noting the involvement of agricultural interests, schools, civic organizations, businesses, service clubs, individuals, families and more in action awareness projects. “We take a womb-to-tomb approach. If you’re alive and breathing, we have a program for you.”

Along with 16 mini grants and two student scholarships, the luncheon ceremony recognized the 2023 Outstanding Supporter, Outstanding Project and Outstanding Cooperating Partner.

On behalf of herself and her staf, Janet Lorton, executive director of the Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission, accepted the award for Outstanding Cooperating Partner.

Having grown up on a 3,000-acre cow farm that’s now developed, and active in 4-H, through which she showed cattle,

Lorton said it is imperative to “continue working to save the environment,” especially in light of the community’s burgeoning growth.

Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez, who could not make the luncheon, was recognized with his staf as the Outstanding Supporter of the Year.

On behalf of the Hillsborough County Fair, Robert Grifn, chair of the Greater Hillsborough County Fair Board of Directors, accepted the award for Outstanding Project of the Year. The fair each year on the last Sunday of its 11-day run hosts the HSWCD Great Plant Auction, which raised roughly $8,000 in 2022. The money funded two $1,000 scholarships and the $250 minigrant awards.

The Roy Gene Davis Scholarship, named for the plant auction chair and auctioneer, went to Morgan Chancey, president of the Turkey Creek 4-H Club. Madison Leiner received the Michael Hepburn Memorial Scholarship, named posthumously for the former HSWCD board chair and beloved Riverview High teacher.

In kicking of the awards ceremony, Jackie Barren, of The Mosaic Co., the luncheon sponsor, welcomed the more than 170 attendees as she praised the work of Tompkins. “I don’t need to tell this crowd, when Betty Jo calls you, answer on the first ring,” Barren said.

For more information, visit www.hillsboroughswcd.com.

Te Tampa Bay History Center in downtown Tampa has an exciting new exhibit featuring maps, both historical and modern as well as charts, known as Key West and the Florida Keys: Mapping the History of the Conch Republic.

Janet Lorton (second from the left), executive director of the Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission (EPC), and her staf accept the Hillsborough 100 award on behalf of the EPC.

$1 BUCKET OF BALLS OR MINI-GOLF AT ACE GOLF THIS SUMMER

Are the kids driving you crazy and playing too many video games this summer?

Want to have them do something healthy and learn a lifelong sport?

Ace Golf is ofering a $1 summer golf practice program for kids ages 4-15. Every day from Thursday, June 1 through Thursday, August 31, kids can sign up to receive a $1 small bucket of range balls and/or a $1 round of miniature golf each day for the whole summer. Kids will hit the balls on the practice ranges and miniature golf courses at bay-area Ace Golf locations. And it’s all just $1 per activity.

“There are a lot of families out there that just can’t aford to put kids in camps, or they just want something productive to fill their summer,” said Bill Place, owner of Ace Golf Ranges and Golf Courses. “We want to help, and hopefully in the process we may find the next Tiger Woods.”

How it works:

• Children may sign up for free at any of three Ace Golf locations in Riverview, Land O’ Lakes and Tarpon Springs.

• Each child receives a daily stamp card for $1 free small bucket and $1 miniature golf each day.

• Each time the child redeems their free bucket, they will get a stamp on their card noting the redemption. An adult must accompany them.

• No other purchase is necessary. Kids

should bring a golf club with them, or they may rent one.

• Miniature golf is available at the Land O’ Lakes and Riverview locations.

In addition to the Free Bucket or Mini Golf program, kids may also play golf for $1 when accompanied by a paying parent at all Ace Golf Courses (18hole golf courses) after 12 Noon every day starting June 1 through the end of October.

Ace Golf Range is located at 12910 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. It is open daily until 10 p.m. The facilities feature lighted golf practice ranges, miniature golf and batting cages.

Ace Golf Courses include the Plantation Palms Golf Club in Land O’ Lakes (813996-4653; website: www.plantationpalms.net), and the Crescent Oaks Country Club at 3300 Crescent Oaks Boulevard in Tarpon Springs (727-937-4653; website: www.crescentoaksgolf.com).

All Ace Golf Courses are open to the public and ofer membership, dining and banquet centers.

Ace Golf is locally, family-owned by Su Lee and Place since 1993. In addition to the $1 kids’ program, each location ofers summer golf camps, clinics and private and group golf lessons. For more information, visit https://ace-golf.com/ or call 813-672-7750.

BULLFROG CREEK BREWING CO. CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF COMMUNITY EVENTS

Five years ago, longtime local residents and business owners Jamie Ratclif and his wife, Kelly, opened Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. in an abandoned gas station in the heart of the Bloomingdale community.

Well today, that little gas station in the Erindale Plaza is a 3,000 sq. ft. center core of activity, events, members, fresh brews, live music, charitable events, markets and all embraced within a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

And credit has to be given to a business that not only survived the 2020 shutdown and pandemic but is also constantly evolving its business model, even making to-go cases of beer, cider and root beer and ofering curbside delivery.

As Valrico’s first brewery, Ratclif, a proud veteran, is also proud of the business they have created, and he said, “We love this community and we love to drink our beer with friends and family. Community is everything to us and we love to give back.”

And give back they do. Ratclif estimates that over the five years and hundreds of music bingo events, local nonprofits have raised more than $400,000 thanks in part to a generous program where Bullfrog provides the equipment and the preregistered charity provides the audience, the sales team and the priz-

By Marie Gilmore

es. Bullfrog is a fully working brewery and pub under the supervision of head brewer Nicholas DiGioia and general manager Alex Volovar. Iconic local brews include Buckhorn Baltic Porter, Bloomingdale Brown, Alafia Wheat and the newest addition, Pizza Rock IPA.

“Our team is passionate about beer and the art of brewing,” said Ratclif. “We believe in using only the finest ingredients to create unique and delicious beers that are sure to satisfy the taste buds of even the most discerning craft beer enthusiasts.” Over the five years, Bullfrog has created 386 beers, served 6.4 million ounces of beer and had 340 beers gifted to visiting veterans.

In addition to the best local brews, Bullfrog Creek has a full-time dedicated food truck serving pub favorite, such as burgers, fries, wings and more, directed by head chef Cormac McCarthy.

Bullfrog Creek opened to the public in March 2018 and is dedicated to crafting high-quality, innovative beers for beer lovers in the community. It is located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 12 Noon-10 p.m.; Friday through Saturday, 12 Noon-11 p.m.; and Sunday, 12 Noon8 p.m. Visit www.bullfrogcreekbrewing. com for a full listing of upcoming events.

Ace Golf is ofering a $1 summer golf practice program for kids ages 4-15 from June through August.

Valrico’s own Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. owners Jamie and Kelly Ratclif

STRAZ ’23/’24 BANK OF AMERICA BROADWAY SEASON

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is thrilled to announce the 2023-2024 Bank of America Broadway at The Straz season, supported in part by the Tampa Bay Times, ofcial media sponsor of The Straz. The slate includes Beetlejuice, Funny Girl, Company, Girl From the North Country, Mrs. Doubtfire, Peter Pan, Clue and, for a twoweek engagement, the Tony Award®-winning best musical Moulin Rouge! The Musical. The season also features The Choir of Man in the intimate Jaeb Theater. In addition to the nine-show package, the season hosts encore engagements of Jesus Christ Superstar, THE BOOK OF MORMON and Les Misérables

“Our 2023-2024 Bank of America Broadway at The Straz season will give our audiences wonderful new experiences,” said Straz Center President and CEO Greg Holland. “As always, the season is anchored with the most compelling Broadway musicals. For the upcoming season, we’re working with the producers of London’s West End musical The Choir of Man to create a special ‘Tampa-only’ production in the Jaeb Theater. 2023-2024 promises to be a magnificent season at The Straz.”

The 2023-2024 season features:

Beetlejuice, Tuesday to Sunday, October 24-29. Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes.

Funny Girl, Tuesday to Sunday, November 28-December 3. Featuring one of the greatest musical scores of all time, including the classic songs “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star” and “People,” this love letter to the theater is the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice.

Company, January 9-14, 2024. Winner of five Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical, this revelatory new production of Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s groundbreaking musical comedy is at once boldly sophisticated, deeply insightful and downright hilarious.

31, 2024. A new Tony Award-winning musical, written and directed by celebrated playwright Conor McPherson and featuring Tony Award-winning orchestrations by Simon Hale, Girl From the North Country reimagines 20 legendary songs of Bob Dylan as they’ve never been heard before.

actor who will do anything for his kids.

Peter Pan, April 30-May 5, 2024. This high-flying musical has been delighting audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life in a new production directed by Emmy Award® winner Lonny Price with an additional book by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse.

Clue, May 28-June 2, 2024. Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget. Based on the cult hit 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

The season also features The Choir of Man, Tuesday, October 3-Sunday, November 26. The runaway international hit is coming to the Jaeb Theater. The Choir of Man offers up one hour of indisputable joy. It’s a party. It’s a concert. It’s the best pub lock-in you’ve ever been to. Featuring pop, classic rock, folk, Broadway and pub tunes, The Choir of Man has something for everyone.

In addition to the nine-show Broadway series, The Straz will present engagements of these ever-popular Broadway productions: Jesus Christ Superstar, March 5-10, 2024; THE BOOK OF MORMON, April 16-21, 2024; and Les Misérables, June 11-16, 2024.

Moulin Rouge! The Musical, February 7-18, 2024. The winner of 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a celebration of truth, beauty, freedom and — above all — love. Moulin Rouge! is more than a musical; it is a state of mind.

Girl From the North Country, March 27-

Mrs. Doubtfire, April 2-7, 2024. Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Tampa in an internationally acclaimed new hit musical. Based on the beloved film and directed by four-time Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks, Mrs. Doubtfire tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work

Sign up now to become new season ticket holders. Prices for the nine-show season package range from $361.75-$980.50. For more information, visit www.strazcenter. org or call the Straz Center Ticket Sales Ofce at 813-229-STAR (7827) or outside the Tampa Bay area at 800-955-1045. Individual show tickets will go on sale at a later date(s), to be announced. Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

EXPRESS CAR WASH CHAINS TARGET SOUTH COUNTY FOR EXPANSION

Local commuters and residents want ing to keep their ve hicles spotless have gained several new car wash options recently with multi ple Woodie’s Wash Shack, ModWash and Tidal Wave Auto Spa locations opening, as well as even more planned to compete against estab lished local operations such as Jules Car Wash. Many have been wondering why this area has seen such sudden and un expected growth in the express car-wash industry.

“We believe nearly a thousand new stores per year are being built in the U.S.,” said Eric Wulf, CEO of the International Carwash Association. “Over the past 20 years, consumer preferences have shifted from ‘do it yourself’ to ‘do it for me.’ Sun shine states have historically been popu-lar for car wash ser vices.”

From an investor’s perspec tive, the express car wash busi ness model is a marathon, not a sprint; with the high initial cost of land and construction even tually ofset by leaving income moving forward going — hopefully — mainly towards profit. With minimal annu al employee cost and expenses, including water, electricity, maintenance, insurance and taxes, it is about as close to passive income as can be found by investors in the massively lucrative automotive in-dustry.

Tampa Bay is especially appealing to developers in the car wash business due to our relatively low number of already existing locations, as well as the high carto-household ratio. With the influx of new residents moving into the area, most com

By Brian Bokor

erage of 13 times per year.

“Thanks to the widespread digitization of money, it’s easier to get banks on board these days. Banks weren’t really favorable of the business model in the past because it was mostly a cash-run business, but with memberships paid digitally now responsible for 90 percent of the in-come and only 10 percent cash, lenders are more receptive when it comes to financing,” said Glen Stygar, partner/vice president of operations for Woodie’s Wash Shack.

When asked about the saturation of car washes in close proximity, Stygar sees it another way.

“We don’t look at competition, we have a market plan to build over 50 stores on the west coast of Florida,” Stygar said. Like Wulf, he believes the shift in consumer habits towards do-it-forme parallels the growth of the express oil-

“I believe our competition is your driveway. We’re pulling people out of the driveway, just like we used to change our own oil,” Stygar said. “We see that happening in the car wash industry. You stay in your car and buzz through the tunnel in three minutes. Why use up to 120 gallons of your water when you get it done here using 30 gallons of ours? It’s a far more efcient use of water, and it’s quicker. Multiple locations near where you work, where you live and where you play give everyone the option of cleaning their ride whenever they find the time. We are also expanding into neighborhood developments with well-established tenants, such as Starbucks and Wawa, welcoming us as neighbors” due in part to the modern architecture used to designing Woodie’s

“Mike Malcom is amazing! My house hunting situation was a bit of an adventure but he stood by me the whole way and went above and beyond to ensure I wasn’t left high and dry. We encountered some road bumps along the way but he and his team fought tooth and nail to fnd solutions and keep everything moving. Would defnitely recommend.”

“We used Tony Baroni and team to both buy our new house and sell our old house in Tampa. Kate Conroy and Saccullo were awesome advocates for us on our buying adventure. They refused to compromise on what we wanted and it was great to have them in our corner during this transaction. Craig Kellner helped us on the selling side of things and it could have gone smoother. From Staging to signing it was a worry free process and could not recommend them more.”

- Pat N.

“Our agent Dylan Lee and the Tony Baroni team made the selling process easy and fast. Very informative, and fast responding for any questions. One of the best selling teams and agent services in the area.”

-

Roland B.

“The Tony Baroni Team were phenomenal every step of the way! Any questions or concerns that came up during the process of buying a home were answered and alleviated very quickly. Whether you’re looking at buying or selling a home, look no further. These guys will take care of you!”

“Craig who did a wonderful jobs , he has a good real estate knowledge, he is able to answer your questions you concern. He helps me to sell my house in 2 weeks. Thanks Craig and Tony Baroni Team. I recommend him”

- Truc P.

6 of 5 stars for extra effort. We have sold 8 homes in our life time and this sale was the best ever. The listing and photos were so good I didn’t know it was really my home. We were kept informed every step of the way and closed without incident . I couldn’t ask for more.

Robert B.

- Brody E.

- Cheryl B.

LOCAL RESIDENTS WILL RUN FOR BRANDON’S HONORARY MAYOR IN JUNE

The annual Brandon Honorary Mayor race will officially kick off on Thursday, June 1 for community leaders who will raise money to support local charities. This year, Jorgie Franks, sales and business development coach, and Danielle Stevens, owner of Vine Vegan, will be running for the position, which will be announced at the Fourth of July Parade.

Franks has lived in Brandon since 11th grade, graduating from Bloomingdale High School before attending Hillsborough Community College in Brandon and transferring to the University of South Florida. She decided to fun run for honorary mayor while working at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce in 2018.

“I have worked in Brandon, FL in many capacities at many of the stores, schools and organizations we visit every day,” said Franks. “[At the chamber of commerce], I was in charge of adding members, which made me reach out to the business community and begin the diversity and inclusion council.”

During her race, Franks will donate the funds she raises to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon, Women Centered 4 Success and Family Promise of Hillsborough County.

Franks has worked with the Kiwanis Club, which partners with schools to provide education, mentorship and leadership opportunities for students.

About Women Center 4 Success, which Franks works at as a coach, she said, “I was there seven years ago when this organization was being conceptualized. It was a vision to have the elderly women give their mentorship and coaching to the younger women and today.”

She chose to support Family Promise

of Hillsborough County as her last nonprofit because it assists homeless families without separating the individuals.

“Before 2018, I had never even heard of an honorary mayor race,” said Franks.

“I have held leadership positions before, but this would be the one where I can leave money for charities. What an honor.”

Stevens moved to Florida eight years ago, living with her family in Valrico. After working for over 20 years of corporate work experience, Stevens opened a plant-based restaurant in 2022, Vine Vegan, after identifying a need for it in the Brandon community.

“I am passionate about my mission: bringing people together over food, cap -

By Lily Belcher

turing the culture of community and using ridiculously delicious vegan food to do it,” said Stevens.

Stevens will be raising money for the Impact Program, Hope for Her and A Kid’s Place throughout June for the honorary mayor race.

“I choose these charities because they help causes that are very personal and near to my heart,” said Stevens.

Impact educates students, parents and teachers on how to have healthy relationships and avoid sexual risk. Hope for Her offers a safe place for women to find strength, skills and support after experiencing trauma. Finally, A Kid’s Place provides foster care for children from abusive homes.

“My goal is to secure financial resources to my selected charities while creating interaction between our community and its environment, all while by increasing my involvement, and encouraging others to do so too,” said Stevens.

In order to raise the funds, Stevens has organized a number of events that will take place throughout June.

“We have something for everyone,” she said. “We are going to have a grand kickoff on June 1 at my restaurant, Vine Vegan, at 5 p.m., where there will be raffles and door prizes and the opportunity to purchase advanced tickets to all my events in June.”

Her team is also planning a movie night featuring Guardians of the Galaxy , a Tory Burch Bingo on Thursday, June 22 at the Winthrop Barn and other fun events, like a comedy night, silent dance party, bingo at Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. and an online auction.

Now Open in Riverview

Life doesn’t slow down, but getting a clearer picture of your health matters. That’s why we’ve created a convenient imaging experience located at the AdventHealth Care Pavilion in Riverview with extended hours — all at afordable, outpatient pricing. With our stateof-the-art imaging technology, we ensure your doctors have all the right information — so you can get back to life’s important moments.

Ticket sales will begin on June 1 and can be purchased by visiting ‘Danielle for Brandon Mayor’ on Facebook.

Jorgie Franks is running for honorary mayor and will support the Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon, Women Centered 4 Success and Family Promise of Hillsborough County.

Danielle Stevens will support the Impact Program, Hope for Her and A Kid’s Place with the money raised during the honorary mayor race.

Jorgie Franks

Danielle Stevens

CANINE CABANA HAS BEEN CARING FOR COMMUNITY DOGS FOR 15 YEARS

Canine Cabana has been engrained in the Southeastern Hillsborough County area culture for 15 years now and it celebrated the milestone with a double ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Greater Riverview and Valrico FishHawk chambers of commerce on May 1. The celebration included a variety of rescue and adoption agencies in addition to the many local vendors like Fox Fired Pizza and Florida Foam Factory providing fun for dogs and humans alike.

Co-founders Kendall Duncan and Angie Pickren have extensive experience in the animal care industry, as they got their start working for Busch Gardens caring for exotic animals. For over 15 years, the pair worked with a wide variety of animals like hyenas and hippos, sometimes showcasing the animals for education on shows such as The Jay Leno Show. Inspired by a need in their community, and their passion for dogs in particular, Duncan and Pickren came together to create Canine Cabana in 2008.

What started as a two-employee operation has grown immensely over the past 15 years. In the beginning, Canine Cabana could serve about 30 dogs a day, as its services were limited to boarding and a group day care with a self-service wash and 20 suites for the pets. There are now a variety of programs ofered in addition to the original two, such as daycare membership, individual play, enrichment daycare, private

By Jonathan Hurst

training, group training and spa/grooming services. The facilities have expanded as well, going from 1 acre and two play yards to 3 acres and eight play yards, as well as nature trails and a training facility, and more expansion is anticipated.

These services and facilities are just some of the ways that Canine Cabana ensures that when your dog stays with it, they are staying in luxury. All guests are well entertained, as they spend time with between 12-15 dogs of similar size and temperament after their orientation day.

“We train every new team member with industry leaders like The Dog Gurus’ Knowing Dogs 101 and 201. We love to have our team training and learning with webinars or conferences on continuing education, always learning what is new and better for the guests in our care. Our team is CPR and first aid certified. We have created a culture of inclusivity, safety and fun,” Duncan said.

What makes Canine Cabana stand out is their enrichment programs available for the dogs that have the pleasure of being a guest. These enrichment programs vary greatly, as your dog can engage in pool time, agility work, scent hunting or even art activities.

If you would like more information about the 15-year anniversary party or general information about Canine Cabana, please visit its Facebook page, Canine Cabana Florida, or its website at https://caninecabana.biz/.

BRANDON BOYS & GIRLS CLUB PROVIDES A SAFE AND INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT

For over 160 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America has changed and saved lives. The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Boys & Girls Clubs promote safe, positive and inclusive environments for all.

Te Carey Family Brandon Boys & Girls Club provides engaging activities that build confdence, self-esteem and social skills. Programming allows for creativity as well as improved academic success and learning lifespan.

For parents, the club is a support system you can count on. The clubs provide mentors, meals and meaningful life experiences after school and during the summer.

Locally, children can participate in activities at the Carey Family Brandon Boys & Girls Club, located at 510 E. Sadie St. in Brandon. This location has been open since March 2019. Students enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade are eligible. Those who are homeschooled, in a private school or in a charter or public school can attend.

NaTasha McKeller, club director, said, “The Carey Family Brandon Boys & Girls Club is a safe space that believes in giving our club members the best club experience. We want to give them an experience that gives them and their families a sense of belonging and support.”

The Carey Family Brandon Boys & Girls Club ofers a variety of activities, includ-

By Kathy L. Collins

ing BAM! (Brandon Art Masters), art, homework assistance, culinary arts, sports, dance, scouting and STEAM. The sports schedule is aligned to the sports in season. The sports ofered include basketball, football, lacrosse and soccer.

During the school year, the club is open on Mondays from 1-6 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday from 2-6 p.m.

During the summer, the club ofers swimming lessons, Cricut crafting 101, gardening and photography. Summer camp is ofered from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. In addition, the club provides supper during the school year, and lunch and snacks during the summer.

The cost, per semester, to be a member of the Carey Family Brandon Boys & Girls Club is $150 for elementary school students, $50 for middle school students, and $15 for high school students.

The Carey Family Brandon Boys & Girls Club receives funding from the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County for the BAM! program, and it has a committee that raises money. According to McKeller, “Funds raised cover swimming lessons, daily activities, field trips and school supplies.”

For more information, please visit www. bgctampa.org or call 813-444-0375.

Co-founders Angie Pickren and Kendall Duncan.

Rosie after graduating from training.

GETTING A CHILD TO APPRECIATE MATH

By Dr. Raymond J. Huntington

For some students, math skills come easily, as do the aptitudes needed to be a successful math student: analyzing patterns, thinking logically and critically and solving problems. However, for others, math concepts are di f cult to grasp, and the more complex they become, the more students want to give up altogether.

If your child isn’t one of the fortunate students for which math ‘clicks’ e f ortlessly, it may not be possible for you to convince him or her to like math. However, you can encourage your child to appreciate math for the practical and useful life skill that it is. Here are a few tips on how to help your student appreciate math and its importance.

Point out math in everyday life. You don’t have to look too hard to find math in day-to-day life — from weather forecasting to telling time to using cell phones and computers. From the time your child is old enough to understand the basic concepts of math, highlight math being used everywhere you go.

Call attention to math in various careers. Certainly, it’s easier to see why professionals in accounting, engineering and science need math. However, the reality is that math is a skill required by many jobs. For business owners and entrepreneurs, math is an essential part of the company’s purchasing, budgeting, finances and other functions. Those working in real estate or sales likely have monthly sales targets to meet in order to earn carefully calculated bonuses. Landscapers or architects use math skills to create scaled drawings and to calculate

and order the right amounts of supplies. Use money. Your child might not enjoy worksheets of math problems, but there’s a good chance he or she is interested in money — or at least interested in earning money. Help your child open his or her first bank account and teach him or her how to maintain the savings register. Together, calculate how much interest he or she could earn each month based on the account’s interest rate. Put together a spreadsheet that gives your child a weekly savings goal to save up for that iPad.

Discuss your own relationship with math. Does your child see you using math? Be sure to explain how and where you use math in your daily life. If you maintain the family budget, have your child help you with this task so he or she gets a sense of how your family keeps track of your income, expenses, savings and more. Show your child how you use math in cooking and when comparison shopping.

Your child might never feel enthusiastic about math, but with some effort on your part, you can impart in him or her an appreciation for the importance of the subject. Look around and you will find a multitude of opportunities to show your child math in use — from complex math to everyday math.

Keep in mind that math is a subject that requires students to continually build skills. If your child struggles with basic concepts, more complex math will only prove frustrating. If your child is struggling, call Huntington. We can design a customized program to help your child overcome any problems with math and get back on the road to school success.

Helping Your Child Learn Math by Eileen and Raymond Huntington o f ers tips, strategies and activities to help your child learn math at home and on the go.

Hillsborough County residents will have eight chances to pick up free mosquitofish this summer at events across the county to help fight mosquitoes on their own property.

The free mosquitofish giveaways are for Hillsborough residents with intentional standing water like koi ponds or other bodies of water that are filled 12 months a year. Mosquitofish fight mosquitoes before the insects can bite by eating mosquito larvae. They are small enough to hide from predators, and their favorite food is mosquito larvae.

Hillsborough operates its own mosquitofish hatchery to breed healthy fish for the giveaways. The result has been healthier fish with a greater survival rate.

The Mosquito Management Services educational trailer will be on-site at each event to help residents learn about eliminating mosquitoes and to illustrate the work Hillsborough County does to keep residents healthy and safe. Tings to know about the events:

• To receive fish, you need a photo ID showing that you live in Hillsborough County.

• County staf will scan or enter your ID information into the county’s mosquito database.

• Quantities are limited, and mosquitofish will be available only while supplies last. Mosquitofsh facts:

• Mosquitofish are small, native freshwater fish that eat mosquito larvae.

• Place the fish in intentional standing

water, such as backyard ponds, fountains, animal troughs and unused swimming pools, to efectively and naturally manage mosquito populations.

• The fish require no feeding, and care is limited to protecting them from garden sprays, chlorine or other chemicals used for cleaning.

• Mosquitofish do not lay eggs and require no special environment for breeding.

• Mosquito Management Services’ goal is for the county’s entire mosquitofish supply to be raised at its headquarters, making the operation more sustainable, as homegrown fish are more likely to be healthier than fish transported from farms.

Schedule and Locations

The Mosquito Management Services Public Education Trailer will be on-site at the mosquitofish giveaway locations from 8 a.m.-12 Noon on the following Saturdays:

June 10: Keith Waller Park, 1318 Sydney Dover Rd. in Dover.

June 24: Northdale Park, 15550 Spring Pine Dr. in Tampa.

July 8: Gadsden Park, 6901 S. MacDill Ave. in Tampa.

July 22: Fishhawk Sports Complex, 16000 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia.

August 5: Oscar Cooler Sports Complex, 766 W. Lutz Lake Fern Rd. in Lutz.

August 19: Keystone Rec Center, 17928 Gunn Hwy. in Odessa.

September 9: Southshore Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin.

September 23: Providence Skate Park, 5720 Providence Rd. in Riverview.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY REMINDS RESIDENTS TO CONSERVE WATER AND REVIEW THEIR WATERING DAYS AND HOURS

Hillsborough County has received very little rain this year — just 4.40 inches in the first four months. The average rainfall for the county for the first four months is 10.93 inches.

With the lack of rainfall, all water users in unincorporated Hillsborough County are subject to year-round lawn watering restrictions. Lawn watering drives peak customer water demand, and the restrictions help to balance the demand and prevent low water pressure.

Allowable watering days and hours for most water sources, uses and methods:

• Street addresses ending in 0, 1, 2 or 3: Mondays and/or Thursdays.

• Street addresses ending in 4, 5 or 6: Tuesdays and/or Fridays.

• Street addresses ending in 7, 8 or 9: Wednesdays and/or Saturdays.

• Common areas with or without addresses, locations with no address and locations with mixed addresses: Wednesdays and/or Saturdays.

• No watering is allowed on Sundays.

Watering may occur in only one of the two designated watering periods per day, between midnight and 8 a.m., or between 6 p.m. and 12 Midnight, on the allowable watering days.

Customers using reclaimed water may water on any day of the week, either before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

The use of drinking or reclaimed water for watering lawns must not be wasteful and unnecessary. Irrigation systems should be operated in a prudent manner to ensure that water does not collect or run-of from the system does not occur. Irrigation should

only be used as a supplement to rainfall.

Visit hcflgov.net/waterrestrictions or call 813663-3295 to confirm your allowable watering days and hours and find additional rules concerning hand watering, watering of new sod and landscaping, car washing, pressure washing and using reclaimed water for irrigation.

Enforcement of Watering Days

Hillsborough County Code Enforcement

ofcers are carrying out routine patrols. Violations of the ordinance can result in a warning and even a fine of up to $500. Violations can be reported by calling Hillsborough County’s water violations reporting hotline at 813-224-8993.

Irrigation Evaluations to Help Conserve Water

There are additional actions that residents can take to reduce water consumption.

The UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County Ofce ofers free on-site and telephone irrigation evaluations for Hillsborough County residents and community and condominium associations that are high water users irrigating with metered water. This service provides education about the water conservation benefits of following Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles.

Extension staf can review rain or moisture sensors, irrigation system components and controller settings for proper setup and functionality. They can also perform a ‘wet walk’ of the property to identify irrigation inefciencies, such as broken heads and misdirected sprays. To schedule irrigation evaluations, contact Paula Staples at 813-7445519, ext. 54142, or staplesp@hcflgov.net.

iSPY TEACHES STEM TO LOCAL PRESCHOOL STUDENTS

The mission of the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County is to provide children, from birth to 5 years old, a high-quality, equitable and inclusive early learning experience to prepare them for success in school and life through the collaboration of families, educators and the community.

Recently, the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County created a free program that brings STEM to preschoolers. iSpy Tampa Bay has been brought to more than 100 classrooms so far, and it’s looking to add more. Schools in Valrico and Riverview are currently using the iSpy program. “The Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County created the program because state tests show only half of kids in Tampa Bay are ready for kindergarten,” said Alison Fraga, chief development ofcer for the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County, “so thousands of kids are starting school each year without the basic skills they need to succeed. This STEM program is one way to fix that.”

The Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County, in partnership with ZooTampa, The Florida Aquarium and the Glazer Children’s Museum, strives to improve reading, science and mathematics

By Libby Hopkins

literacies among preschool students ages 3-5 through playbased learning activities.

The iSpy Tampa Bay program provides the opportunity to engage children in science and nature play both in the classroom and at home. The program promotes natural curiosity, increases vocabulary and sparks imagination. “Each child gets a backpack full of STEM learning tools like magnifying glasses and binoculars,” Fraga said. “Kids also get a free family membership to the Glazer Children’s Museum, The Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa. Plus, teachers get special training to use STEM to help kids learn the key skills they need like math, reading and vocabulary.”

Only half of Tampa Bay’s students are entering kindergarten with the skills needed to succeed in school, according to state testing. “iSpy Tampa Bay is aiming to reverse that trend by bringing STEM learning into child care centers and preschools by using fun play to teach real science, math and reading skills,” Fraga said.

If you would like to learn more about the programs ofered by the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County or if you want to learn more about its iSpy Tampa Bay program, visit www.elchc.org.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

By Jerry L. Mallams, P.G., Operations Bureau Chief

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

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

Q: What is a critical structure?

A: Some of our flood control structures are considered critical structures, such as the structures associated with the Tampa Bypass Canal System. This system routes flood water from the Hillsborough River around the cities of Tampa and Temple Terrace, providing protection from river flooding. Used in 2017 during Hurricane Irma, the canal system was moving up to 3 billion gallons of flood water a day, sparing homes and businesses along the lower Hillsborough River from flooding. Due to their important flood protection role, these structures are considered critical structures.

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

A: The Tampa Bypass Canal System is the largest flood control system in the district. It is made up of nine flood control structures, a 6.5-mile earthen dam and 15.7 miles

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

Q: How are the structures operated?

A: All the Tampa Bypass Canal structures, along with many other district structures, can be operated remotely or manually. All the district’s mission-critical water control structures, including the 17 flood control structures, are operated remotely by staf using a computer. This allows staf to operate structures 24 hours a day, seven days a week from any location. Approximately half of the district’s water control structures must be manually operated, with staf having to be physically present at the location to operate the structure.

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

A: During an active storm threat, district ofcials activate its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to monitor tropical storms and hurricanes. Depending on the level of activation, the district will mobilize appropriate emergency personnel to report to the EOC for extended shifts.

Jerry Mallams is a licensed professional geologist in Florida and has worked for the Southwest Florida Water Management District for 26 years. Jerry manages the 84 district-owned food control and water conservation structures and canal rightsof-way within the 16-county area.

Don’t Miss a Moment

Te Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County created a free program that brings STEM to preschoolers. iSpy Tampa Bay has been brought to more than 100 classrooms so far, and it’s looking to add more. Schools in Valrico and Riverview are currently using the iSpy program.

HGTV 100 Day Dream

, Basketball Camp & More...

Local Residents

Return To HGTV

Shows

Local residents

Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt recently returned to HGTV in a two-episode special of 100 Day Dream

Home: Beachfront Hotel , ahead of the new 11-episode season premiere of 100 Day Dream Home During the beachfront hotel special, Brian and Mika turn their construction and design expertise toward the full overhaul of a dated 12-room property on the Florida Gulf Coast. 100 Day Dream Home: Beachfront Hotel premiered on May 12 on HGTV, and it will be followed by the new season premiere of 100 Day Dream Home on Friday, May 26 at 9 p.m.

Hillsborough Fleet Management Takes Prestigious Awards

Hillsborough County Fleet Management achieved a rare triple win at the 2023 NAFA Fleet Manage -

ment Association’s annual contest recognizing the best fleets in the United States and Canada. Hillsborough County Fleet Management provides asset management and policy development services for a fleet of 3,400 vehicles. The vehicles serve 30 county departments, county constitutional offices and various Florida agencies. Hillsborough County won all three categories for which it was eligible: Best Public Fleet; Fleet Professional of the Year, fleet management director Robert Stine; and Fleet Technician of the Year, Alex Gonzalez.

Bloomingdale

Basketball Summer Camps

Bloomingdale High School Basketball will be hosting a summer basketball camp for boys and girls at all skill levels for campers entering grades four through nine. The camp dates are Tuesday to Friday, May 30 to June 2 and/ or Monday to Thursday, June 5-8. There will be a morning session from 9 a.m.-12 Noon and an afternoon session from 1-4 p.m.

Campers will be placed into groups by age, size and ability. Session numbers are limited to 40 players. For more information and to reserve a spot, email Joel Bower at joel. bower@hcps.net or call 813299-5072.

HILLSBOROUGH SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT PRESENTS AWARDS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND MINI GRANTS

By Kathy L. Collins

ton and her staf

Two scholarships were awarded as well. The Michael Hepburn Memorial Scholarship was presented to Madison Leiner, and the Ro Gene Davis Scholarship was given to Morgan Chancey.

On April 12, the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District held a festive luncheon where it awarded several supporter awards, scholarships and mini grants. Funding for the scholarships and mini grants came from its annual Great Plant Auction held at the Hillsborough County Fair.

The Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District held a ceremony on April 12 at The Regent. At the luncheon, the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District presented awards to several local agencies and organizations, two scholarships and 16 mini grants.

Betty Jo Tompkins, executive director, said, “The idea for the luncheon started in 2016. The luncheon and awards represent the very thing that the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District stands for, and that is that conservation is everybody’s business. It is the responsibility of everyone to conserve and preserve nature.”

Several leaders of local agencies were recognized for their support. The Outstanding Supporter of the Year award was given to Hillsborough Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez and his staf. The Outstanding Project of the Year award went to the Hillsborough County Fair. The Outstanding Cooperative Partner award was awarded to Environmental Protection Commission executive director Janet Lur-

The mini grants are new for this year. The funding for the grants came as a result of the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District’s Great Plant Auction held annually at the Hillsborough County Fair.

There were 16 mini grants in the amount of $250 awarded. Each mini grant project proposal required at least one adult and four students participating in the project. Tompkins said, “When we came up with the idea for the mini grants, we thought that we would give out 12, but there were so many great project proposals that we decided to give out 16.”

The grant recipients included Apollo Beach Elementary School, Brandon High School FFA Chapter, Cub Scout Pack 37, Boy Scout Troop 109, Dunbar Elementary Magnet School, Ryan Flugel’s Eagle Scout project, Girl Scout Troop 3518, Graham Elementary AGP Gardens, Hillsborough County 4-H, Lopez Agriculture Classes, Pizzo K-8 School Garden Club, Raise the Bar 4-H Club, SCUBAnauts International (Tampa Chapter), Springhead Elementary Fifth Grade Lunch Bunch/Tutoring Group, Temple Terrace Elementary School Green Team and Winthrop Arts.

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

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt from HGTV’s 100 Day Dream Home.

UNION SPORTSMEN’S ALLIANCE, IRONWORKERS LOCAL 397 HOST YOUTH FISHING EVENT AT SUNCOAST YOUTH CONSERVATION CENTER

Nearly 200 youth and their families turned out for Take Kids Fishing Day at the Suncoast Youth Conservation Center (SYCC) in Apollo Beach on April 15. Most of the participants had never fished before.

Hosted by Ironworkers Local 397 and the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA), the free community event aimed to introduce youth to saltwater fishing from the boardwalk and fishing pier constructed by union volunteers at SYCC in 2019.

The wheelchair-accessible structure is the result of a multiyear community service project organized by the USA through its Work Boots on the Ground conservation program. It flanks a restored saltwater pond and marsh adjacent to the SYCC’s 6,000-square-foot education facility.

“We are grateful to the USA for its commitment to supporting youth engagement with the outdoors. The fishing pier they built for us makes a huge diference for visitors, field trip students and summer campers,” said SYCC director Candice Wade.

“Florida’s natural resources belong to all of us, and not everyone gets the chance to grow up with access to nature or guidance on how to engage with the outdoors,” she added. “Events like this empower youth and families to enjoy Florida wildlife in a conservation-minded manner. I especially love that participants received fishing gear so they can continue to apply the skills they

learned.”

As youth fished from the boardwalk and along the banks of the marsh, 18 union volunteers from Ironworkers Local 397 and the NFL Players Association, along with USA and SYCC staf, assisted them with baiting hooks, casting, reeling and getting familiar with their new fishing rods and reels, provided by the USA.

“The unions are part of the community, and we are always looking for ways to

give back and make a positive impact. We had plenty of volunteers to ensure the kids had a great experience,” said Keven Barber, Ironworkers Local 397 financial secretary-treasurer/business agent, who organized the event. “Between youth events like this and the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) apprenticeship readiness program we participate in with high schools, we hope to expose youth to the trades so they consider it as an option when

Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved one.

Gain this knowledge at our NEW hybrid support groups being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon.

Hybrid Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Groups

33511 | 813-607-6880

they graduate.”

“At the NFLPA, we look for opportunities for kids to experience activities they don’t normally get a chance to participate in,” said NFLPA Tampa Chapter President Jerry Bell, who volunteered at the event. “It was great to be able to spend time with these kids and show them a few things about fishing. I saw one little girl catch the biggest fish of the day, and it was neat to see how excited she was.”

Throughout the event, SYCC staf also manned four education stations, including fish tagging, knot tying, fish measuring and casting.

The Suncoast event was part of a series of free, community-based Take Kids Fishing Day events, organized through the USA’s Work Boots on the Ground program with support from USA national partners Provost Umphrey Law Firm, Union Plus and Humana as well as founding partners UIG, ULLICO, Bank of Labor, AFL-CIO Investment Trust Corporation and Buck Knives.

“The weather for this year’s event was great, and the kids caught more fish — black drum and pinfish — than previous years,” said USA Conservation Coordinator Cody Campbell. “We can’t thank the volunteers from Ironworkers Local 397, the NFLPA and SYCC enough for donating their time to give participating families a fun and educational experience and spark their interest in fishing.”

Volunteers from Ironworkers Local 397 and the NFL Players Association assisted youth with baiting, casting, reeling and getting familiar with their new fshing rods and reels.

Te Union Sportsmen’s Alliance provided all participating youth with their own fshing rods and reels so they could continue to pursue fshing beyond the event.

Most of the youth taking part in Take Kids Fishing Day had never fshed prior to the event.

Iron Rock Insurance Opens Commercial Division

Local-family-owned Iron Rock Insurance has recently expanded and opened a commercial insurance division. With the growing commercial business Lisa Hast, managing partner of Iron Rock Insurance, felt it would be a great asset to the business as well as the community. Heading the commercial division is Spencer Foy, and Kate Norberg, licensed CSR, joined the commercial division as well. Iron Rock Insurance is located at 400 Frandorson Cir., Ste. 103 in Apollo Beach and can be contacted on 813-213-9600. Visit its website at www.ironrockins.com for more information.

Pro221 Pressure Washing Offers Expert Exterior Cleaning

Pro221 Pressure Washing specializes in all-inclusive exterior cleaning services. With cleaning homes, driveways, lanais, pool cages and more, it has the expertise and equipment to deliver outstanding results. Owner Mark Girdwood brings over 20 years of experience in customer service and understands the importance of providing high-quality service to valued customers. What sets Pro221 apart is its commitment to customer satisfaction. It guarantees that every project will be treated with the respect it deserves,

and it will only stop when the customer is satisfied. Pro221 Pressure Washing is fully licensed and insured. The convenient booking options, via text message, phone call, email or website, make it easy for the customer to schedule a service. Contact it by calling 813-699-0304 or visit its website at https://pro221.com for additional information and to book services.

May Is Garage Door Safety Month

Garage Door Safety Month is every May. It is an initiative to help keep the public safe, and Master Garage Door Co., which has been serving Eastern Hillsborough County for over 25 years, is a great choice for that goal. If you suspect any problems with your door system, contact Master Garage Door Co. at 813-684-7744 or email steve@mastergaragedoor. com. Additional information about

services o f ered can be found on its website at www.mastergaragedoor.com.

Rello Runs Academy Summer Basketball

Rello Runs Academy, owned locally by Durrell and Jade Peterson, is preparing for its summer basketball camps and classes in the Riverview area. It provides a great fun environment for all athletes to grow in spirit, mind and body through basketball. Call 904-563-3170 or email jpetersoncorp@gmail.com for more information.

Wingspread Farm Selected For 2023

Best Of Valrico Award

Wingspread Farm has been selected for the 2023 Best of Valrico Award in the Farm category by the Valrico Award Program. Each year, the Valrico Award Program identifies companies that it believes have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community. These are companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community and help make the Valrico area a great place to live. Wingspread Farm is located at 3003 Pearson Rd. in Valrico and is open Thursday through Sunday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Visit its website at www.wingspread. farm for more information.

Continued

May is National Stroke

A stroke can happen fast and without warning. Acting quickly is essential to recovery, so it’s important to get care immediately. At AdventHealth Tampa, our experts at the Comprehensive Stroke Center are ready to care for you when every moment matters. Find

TampaStrokeExperts.com

Mark Girdwood, owner of Pro221 Pressure Washing.

Spencer Foy is head of Iron Rock Insurance’s commercial division.

Rello Runs, owned locally by Durrell and Jade Peterson. Come visit and try our famous cinnamon rolls.

EYE ON BUSINESS...CONTINUED

By Jenny Bennett

Home

Care

For The 21st Century

Now Available

Home Care for the 21st Century is a woman-owned business located locally in Hillsborough County. It aims to keep our seniors safer and at home longer by o f ering a wide range of services that match clients’ needs, including companion care, skilled nursing care, transportation, medical equipment, telehealth monitoring, dementia care and more. Families will enjoy peace of mind knowing that loved ones are safe and can maintain their independence in the comfort of their own home, and costs are significantly reduced compared with alternatives. At Home Care for the 21st Century, you are not just a number, you are part of the family. Visit its website at www.homecareforthe21stcentury. com or call 833-786-2121 for additional information

Skill Samurai Opens In Bloomingdale Square Plaza

Skill Samurai recently opened at 931 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon and o f ers after-school coding and robotic classes as well as summer camps. It be -

Dental Care at FishHawk Commons, located at 5628 Circa Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia, recently celebrated one year in business with a ribbon-cutting sponsored by the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce.

lieves that all children should have the opportunity to develop various skills, and several classes are available for all ages and skill levels. Instructors guide the students and ensure that every one of them is getting the best out of their class by tailoring the courses to students’ strengths and weaknesses. For more information, visit its website at https://skillsamurai.com/fl-brandon or call 813-761-2832.

Have you ever wanted to defy the aging process? Who hasn’t? While no one can stop the clock and the passing of time, ageRejuvenation, a local medical spa clinic, can put a plan in place to bring your body back to an optimal level comparable to when your body was the healthiest in your 20s. ageRejuvenation also ofers weight loss plans that can help you reach short-term weight loss goals.

Under the medical direction of Dr. Dawn Ericsson, ageRejuvenation is committed to treating symptoms of aging and promoting longer and healthier living regardless of age. Core to its full-scale program is an individualized whole-body approach that helps patients restore their health through hormonal balance, decreased inflammation, improved sexual function and weight loss.

Brett Markowitz, visionary and founder of ageRejuvenation, said it is devoted to customized treatment plans that use advanced diagnostic testing to provide insight into the root causes of symptoms.

“We understand that no two individuals are alike,” Markowitz said. “We also believe that treating the whole body is important. Looking at the thyroid, looking at the hormones, looking at the gut health is essen-

By Jane Owen

tial.”

Clients are given a full-body assessment, which includes a lifestyle assessment with regards to stress, blood tests for hormone analysis and an analysis of food sensitivities and intolerances to support gut health.

“The average person going through traditional doctors and referrals would go through a whole year and a half to get the assessment and labs we do. We do that, day one. You get answers day one,” Markowitz said.

With regards to weight loss goals, ageRejuvenation’s holistic approach to healthy living ensures clients will have long-term success.

“Once you come see us, if you follow what we tell you to do, you are not going to put the weight back on,” said Markowitz. ageRejuvenation has locations throughout Tampa Bay and will be opening additional locations in Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina. The Brandon ofce is located at 1155 Nikki View Dr. For more information about the services ageRejuvenation ofers, visit www.AgeRejuvenation.com. Call 813-681-8624 for a free consultation.

Dr. Dawn Ericsson is the medical director at ageRejuvenation.

HCC’S SOUTHSHORE CAMPUS CELEBRATES 15TH ANNUAL STUDENT EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Hillsborough Community College’s SouthShore campus celebrated its 15th annual Student Excellence Awards to recognize exceptional students and staf

Around 200 faculty, students and community members attended the program held at the Main Kings Point Clubhouse. The awards recognized the dean’s list of students and faculty along with staf of the year.

Campus President Dr. Jennifer Wells China invited her Presidential Advisory Council to support their outstanding students and staf

This year’s Faculty of the Year Award went to mathematics professor Dr. Craig Hardesty.

“The Faculty of the Year Award represents a faculty member who fosters an atmosphere of collegiality and collaboration among students,” said executive staf assistant Brenda Sanchez.

Job placement assistant Fauna Keppen was given the Staf Person of the Year Award at the SouthShore event as well.

“The Staf Person of the Year Award represents a staf member who demonstrates a high degree of excellence and integrity in their work, which promotes improvement in the overall student body of the SouthShore campus,” explained Sanchez.

Librarian Roxanna Palmer received the

By Lily Belcher

Servant Leadership Award to recognize her stewardship and community building and the impact she has had on campus.

Finally, Student of the Year was awarded to Allen Chen. Chen is graduating with a 4.0 GPA and plans to attend the University of South Florida in the fall.

“Mr. Chen is a stellar student who has also provided service and leadership excellence,” said Sanchez.

Hillsborough Community College serves around 45,000 students every year across all five of its campuses. Each campus, including the SouthShore location, has diferent clubs and organizations for all students, including a Student Government Association and a Student Nurses Organization.

The SouthShore campus is home to the Lennard Collegiate Academy, which partners with Lennard High School to help students earn their associate degree in high school. It also ofers EMT, paramedic and nursing pathways and is a green campus.

Hillsborough Community College’s SouthShore campus is located at 551 24th St. NE in Ruskin, right across the street from Lennard High School.

Call 813-253-7000. To book a tour, www. hccfl.edu/campus-life/southshore-campus.

Staf, students and families attended the 15th annual Student Excellence Awards.

Dean Nadia Kotula presented the Faculty of the Year Award to Dr. Craig Hardesty.

Steve Holland and Ken Anderson have been friends since grade school. They have also been the owners of Brandon Auto Services for more than three decades. “We have been part of the Brandon community for 52 years,” Holland said. “My father originally owned Holland’s Auto Service in Brandon on Robertson, across from where the old library used to be. When he decided to sell the business; Ken and I decided to buy the business.”

Brandon Auto Services is the community’s one-stop shop for a wide variety of auto needs. “We have parts for vehicles, and we do general repairs, engine/transmission repairs, collision repairs and tire services,” Holland said. “We work hard to purchase damaged or used vehicles so we can recycle parts. This is an extremely important part of the automotive supply chain.”

Their customers get options in purchasing a quality used part that has a possible warranty ranging from 101 days to lifetime. Think of purchasing a used part when you need a wheel, a car body part, transmission or an engine.

If you ask Holland and Anderson what makes Brandon Auto Services di f erent from other auto services in the area,

By Libby Hopkins

they’ll say it’s the variety of services they o f er their customers. “I think growing up in the Brandon community and working in the community is what makes us di f erent,” Holland said. “We give options to our customers. We can use used parts, new factory parts or recycled parts. Customers can choose how their vehicles are fixed.”

Brandon Auto Services also specializes in Corvette repairs and parts. “We have a large stock of quality of new and used Corvette parts,” Holland said. “We also do a lot of Corvette repairs.”

Its tire department o f ers both new and quality used tires and wheels, including new custom wheels. “All major brands of tires are available for installation, including Goodyear, Pirelli and Firestone,” Holland said.

Call Brandon Auto Services at 813689-8131 if you need auto or truck parts. For the collision department or mechanic shop, call 813-689-8255.

For more information about the services o f ered at Brandon Auto Services, visit its website at www.brandonauto. com. The shop is located at 3159 SR 60 E. in Valrico. Its hours of operation are 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.

THREE BLOOMINGDALE LACROSSE CAPTAINS CELEBRATE ADMITTANCE TO MILITARY SERVICE ACADEMIES

“If everyone is thinking alike, then someone isn’t thinking,” said George S. Patton, one of the best-known American generals in World War II. His words mean that if every person is thinking the same, then every person is just a follower.

Ryan Mothershed Cases, Lelyn Kirby and Simeon Rate are leaders. They are all captains on the Bloomingdale High School lacrosse team. They also have all accepted prestigious appointments to U.S. service academies. Cases and Kirby will attend the United States Naval Academy. Rate will attend the United States Air Force Academy.

Bloomingdale’s lacrosse coach, Cody Gray, said it is very rare to find the leadership qualities they possess as high school athletes. They lead by example and exude accountability.

“They’ve demonstrated immense accountability in both holding themselves accountable, but even more importantly their teammates. This can bring a lot of confrontation to the table if done incorrectly. However, I trusted them both seasons as their coach to do so in a radically candid manner. They cared personally, but also challenged their teammates directly.

By Jane Owen

This balance is extremely hard to accomplish even for some of the best leaders in the world,” Gray said.

All three students had different reasons for applying to the academies.

Cases will be fourth-generation military, Rate’s dad and brother attended the Air Force Academy and Kirby felt the Naval Academy would give him tools for success to help others.

The desire to serve is what will continue to make them good leaders.

“Growing up, I knew that no matter what I did after high school, I wanted to serve others,” said Rate.

“What inspired me to apply to the academy is my desire to do good and give back to my country,” said Kirby.

“Having received the appointment, I know that I’m no longer doing things for me but for those around me because everything is not about me at this point, it’s about us,” said Cases.

According to Gray, their combination of leading by example with efective communication led players to follow. Simply put, he said, they are an inspiration for others and will have a huge impact on our county for years to come.

Coach Cody Gray stands proudly with Bloomingdale lacrosse players Simeon Rate, Ryan Mothershed Cases and Lelyn Kirby, who are heading to the U.S. service academies.

SOPHOMORE QB ROSE-BAILEY IS A BUDDING STAR FOR BLOOMINGDALE BULLS

Dillon Rose-Bailey is a budding star for the Bloomingdale High School football program. The young quarterback showed promise for the Bulls last season, leading the team with 10 passing touchdowns in just six starts.

The 6’2,” 185-pound gunslinger was thrust into the spotlight last season after senior leader James Coney went down with an injury. The freshman came in and immediately won his first career start against rival Durant. He continued to show poise throughout the season, throwing 10 touchdown passes for 1,048 yards and rushing for two.

“I was just shocked how fast the game was for me,” said Rose-Bailey. “Once I started the third game, the pace started to move how I wanted it to.”

The traditional pocket passer already has a D-I ofer from Florida Atlantic University and has participated in many showcase camps throughout the country in his young career. QB Hit List has him ranked fifth in the class of 2026 for QBs in the state of Florida and 24th in the nation. He’s competed in several camps in Texas and won MVP in two showcases called ‘The VI’ and ‘The Show by NXGEN.’ He was Quarterback Universe first runner-up in St. Louis, Missouri as well. Rose-Bailey recently went on an unofficial visit to the University of South Florida. Former Bloomingdale football head coach Jake Coulson believes that Rose-Bailey will

By Nick Nahas

be a future power five QB and has all the intangibles.

He said that the pro-style QB plays beyond his years, works extremely hard at his craft, has a great arm, can read defenses, is a great leader, is very coachable and, most importantly, wants to be great.

“He wants the ball, He’s not scared of pressure and being put in pressure type situations,” said Coulson. “That’s what makes him really good. The longer he plays at that speed of level, he’s just going to continue to get better.”

Coulson remembers fondly when the freshman came in for James Coney in the preseason classic against a high-powered defense in Berkley Prep and immediately completed two straight passes. He had the utmost confidence in the young QB.

“By the time that dude’s a junior, he’s going to be a freak of nature,” said Coulson. “He already has one big-time ofer and I think they’ll start coming in pretty soon, especially after these guys get out there and watch him in the spring game.”

Rose-Bailey said that he’s working on his speed and arm strength and studying coverages this of-season. He is confident in his team and hopes to help them win districts and go to the playofs.

“I know people are watching and any bad move I make can downgrade me, so I’m just going to continue to work hard and not stop.”

THE BRANDON SENIOR CENTER IS A GREAT PLACE FOR RESIDENTS 50 AND OLDER TO STAY ACTIVE

Hillsborough County Aging Services ofers a multitude of services for residents 50 years and older. The Brandon Senior Center, located at 612 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon, is a perfect example of what the county ofers. All services are ofered for free. It is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The center has been open since 2001.

Hillsborough County residents who are 50 years and older can enjoy meeting others, having fun and staying active at the Brandon Senior Center.

Dora Navarrete, senior supervisor at the Brandon Senior Center, said, “We ofer a place to gather, learn and enjoy free activities designed for today’s active seniors. Our programs reflect the seven dimensions of wellness: social, emotional, spiritual, financial, environmental, intellectual and physical.”

Examples of the activities ofered include friendly cofee and chat exercises, morning walking group, table games, pool table, sewing machine class, Spanish conversational beginner’s class, crochet and chat, beading and jewelry making, garden club, Mama Rosa bingo, inspiration and hope (Spanish), painting club and workshops (healthy eating and photography, for example).

The Brandon Senior Center also has a gym and ofers fitness classes through a partnership with SilverSneakers. The center is installing an outdoor senior fitness zone as well.

Navarrete said, “Each new member is provided an orientation by staf of how to utilize

By Kathy L. Collins

the fitness equipment. Fitness classes are either staf/video-led or by a volunteer certified fitness instructor. Every Monday and Wednesday, we have group fitness classes. Additionally, we ofer daily inside Sit ’N’ Fit exercises and a walking club. We just finished a tai chi workshop that was presented by Senior Connections.”

In addition, the Brandon Senior Center ofers special activities each month. These include birthday parties, fall prevention education, nutrition education, memory games and more.

Residents who are 60 years and older can enjoy a hot meal at 11:30 a.m. from Monday through Friday. Navarrete said, “Aging Services has a registered dietician on staf that works closely with the food vendor to ensure that the meals ofered are varied and nutritionally balanced.”

Navarrete added, “We are here to serve the senior community of Hillsborough County. Socializing and taking part in daily activity or staying busy is important to a senior’s overall health. It gives you a reason to get dressed and out the door. We ofer plenty of programs to keep clients interested, motivated and satisfied.”

Get registered by calling the Customer Care Team at 813-272-5250. The team will do an evaluation for registration to see if you qualify to receive meals.

Photo courtesy of Ron Bailey Freshman Dillon Rose-Bailey came in and immediately won his frst career start against rival Durant. He continued to show poise throughout the season, throwing 10 touchdown passes for 1,048 yards and rushing for two.

SUMMER IS FAST APPROACHING SO GRAB A FRIEND AND REGISTER FOR VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Bay Life Church

Located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, Bay Life Church will host Kidapalooza in June. The dates are Tuesday to Thursday, June 6-8, 10-11:30 a.m., for grades kindergarten through one and Monday to Friday, June 12-16, 6:30-8:30 p.m., for grades two through five. This will be Bay Life’s ultimate VBS extravaganza, filled with oodles of slime, loads of laughter and tons of fun. And best of all, it’s free. For more information and to register, visit kids@baylife.org.

First Baptist Church - Plant City

‘Stellar’ is the theme at First Baptist Church at 3309 James L. Redman Pkwy. in Plant City. Children will discover what it means to shine Jesus’ light in everyday life, and Stellar is filled with awesome Bible learning experiences for children to see, hear and touch. It will take place Monday through Friday, June 5-9 from 6-9 p.m. and is for children between age 5 and those completing fifth grade at the end of the 2023 school year. Register online at www.fbcpc. com/vbs.

Bell Shoals Church

The Bell Shoals Church campuses in Apollo Beach and Brandon will host Twist and Turns vacation Bible school for grades kindergarten through five. Children will play their way through VBS while learning Jesus guides them through all the twists and turns of their lives, and that even when they mess up, it’s never ‘game over.’ This summer will show children how following Jesus changes the game. It will take place Monday through Thursday, June 5-8 from 9 a.m-12 Noon at both campuses.

The Brandon campus is at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd., and the Apollo Beach campus is at 6414 Golf and Sea Blvd. Visit https://bellshoals. com/vbs/ for more information and to register.

St. Andrew’s Youth Ministry

St. Andrew’s Youth Ministry will be kicking of summer with Youth Week for students grades six through 12 from Sunday through Friday, June 4-9 at its Brandon campus at 3315 S. Bryan Rd. The week will start with a glow foam party and then for the rest of the week students are transported to local mission partners in the community to have fun, grow in faith and serve. Register online at https://

saumclife.churchcenter.com/registrations/ events/1723038.

Providence Baptist Church

VBS will be held Monday through Friday, June 19-23 at Providence Baptist Church, located at 5416 Providence Rd. in Riverview from 6-8:30 p.m. In Keepers of the Kingdom, children will learn about the truth of God, how to prepare for battle and how to defeat our foe. Visit mypbc.org for more information.

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church

Children are invited to follow Jesus here, there and everywhere at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church, located at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. Children will be inspired to do what He says, believe Who He is, love who He loves, share what He did and go where He leads. Its VBS will be held Monday through Friday, June 26-30 from 8:30 a.m.-12 Noon and is available for pre-K through fifth grade students. Visit https://vbspro.events/p/hiepiscopal to register.

New Hope Church

New Hope Church, located at 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon, is hosting Twists and Turns for all children who had turned 3 years old by August 31, 2022, up to those who have completed sixth grade. They will spin the spinner, beat the clock, skip ahead and play to win. From classic tabletop games to video games and more, children will learn that Jesus guides them through the twists and turns of their lives. New Hope’s VBS takes place Monday through Friday, June 12-16 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. For more information, email Shelly Wilson at shelly@findnewhope.com or call 813-689-4161. Register at www.findnewhope.com/vbs.

St. Andrew’s Kids Ministry

Get ready to taste and see God’s goodness and have a great time at St. Andrew’s Church at 3315 S. Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Its VBS will run from Monday through Friday, July 17-21 from 9 a.m.-12:15 p.m., with a VBS celebration on Sunday, July 23. Children must be 3 years of age and potty-trained to attend. The cost is $40 per child, $130 maximum per family, and includes a VBS shirt, daily crafts, science experiments, outdoor activities, Bible theater, live workshops and snacks. Register online at https:// saumclife.churchcenter.com/registrations/ events/1745308.

QUEST VOLLEYBALL ACADEMY TEAMS EARN BIDS FOR NATIONAL TOURNAMENTS

Two Quest Volleyball Academy teams earned USAV (USA Volleyball) Bids at the national qualifiers this season. The 16 Taylor team earned their bid at the Lone Star Classic in Dallas and the 13 Sue team earned a rare two bids in the Sunshine Classic.

A USAV Bid is awarded to a top-performing team and earns the team a spot in the most competitive national tournaments each year.

“These two teams, like others in our program, have worked their way to the top of the age divisions and are well known as competitors in our area,” said director Teresa Tanski. “… Teams like this aren’t built in a season — they’re built because hardworking athletes share a common goal and work towards that goal every day.”

The 16 Taylor team consists of high school sophomores, many of whom have played at Quest for at least two years. The biggest challenge that faced the 16 Taylor team were injuries. One athlete, Siah Kennedy, tore her ACL, and Pamela DeJesus sufered a foot injury during the qualifier, but other, minor injuries have plagued the team during the tournament.

“The players have had to truly step up

By Lily Belcher

into new roles and trust each other through the process of overcoming those injuries,” said Tanski.

Other teams have struggled with being overlooked because of the smaller nature of the club. However, the consistency and dedication of the coaches to the programs have allowed the teams to grow stronger.

The 13 Sue team fought for a 20-0 record across two tournaments at the Sunshine Classic and USAV Big South National Qualifier. With their impressive record, the athletes earned their first two bids as a team.

“We’ve seen tremendous growth from both of these teams over several seasons; an improvement in overall ball control and technicality. They’ve also got incredible team chemistry, some of the best camaraderie of any team at Quest,” said Tanski.

Quest Volleyball ofers consistent, yearround training for all athletes. Tryouts are typically held in July, with the season running from November through June.

For more information on Quest Volleyball Academy, visit www.questvolleyballacademy.com or contact Tanski at 813-382-9322 or teresa.tanski@questvolleyball.com.

CRISIS CENTER OF TAMPA BAY UNVEILS NEW CENTER IN RUSKIN

By Kathy Collins

eryone has access to the best possible services.”

Chronister said, “Imagine being a victim of rape and having to travel an hour and a half to the crisis center. A lot of victims start questioning themselves and deputies have to explain that evidence is needed. Now, you only need to travel a short distance.”

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay unveiled its new sexual assault services location in Ruskin on April 28. The new center is located at 201 14th Ave. SE in Ruskin. The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is a nonprofit agency and is Tampa Bay’s elite provider of crisis and trauma services. The only other center is located in North Tampa.

The new location in Ruskin allows the community in Southern Hillsborough County to be better served. With a second location, in a rapidly growing area of Hillsborough County, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay will be able to help more individuals receive advocacy and support following an assault.

The new location opened with the help and support of Hillsborough County Commissioner Harry Cohen and all of the county commissioners, Hillsborough County Sherif Chad Chronister and Hillsborough Clerk of Court Cindy Stuart.

At the unveiling, several of the above spoke, and attendees toured the new facility. Cohen said, “This is the type of public-private partnership that makes sure ev-

Chronister added, “You (Crisis Center of Tampa Bay) are the beacon of hope and healing. You provide services to someone in their darkest hour. You just made Hillsborough County a safer place to live.”

Clara Reynolds, president and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, said, “Our mission is that no one has to face crisis alone. One of our four pillars is an efortless experience where you can … easily get access. This center is the epitome of effortless service.”

It was apropos that the center was unveiled at this time as April is sexual assault awareness month.

Reynolds added, “We need to tell sexual assault victims that they are important and they will be believed.”

The new center ofers a space that is calm and reassuring and designed to make clients feel comfortable.

While a rape exam can only be done within five days of an assault, advocacy can happen at any time. You can connect with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay by dialing 211. Someone is available to connect with you 24/7.

Be Yourself Again with a Customized Weight Loss Program

Te 16 Taylor team earned their bid at the Lone Star Classic.

The 13 Sue team earned two bids this season.

Te Crisis Center of Tampa Bay unveiled a new sexual assault services location in Ruskin on April 28. Dignitaries who attended the event included Hillsborough County Commissioner Harry Cohen and Hillsborough County Sherif Chad Chronister.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. SEEKS

GASPARILLA FLOAT SPONSORS FOR NEW 321 KREWE

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Down Syndrome Special Needs

West Florida Inc. is starting a special needs Gasparilla krewe to raise awareness for those with Down syndrome and create a safe and accepting atmosphere for individuals and their families.

“I’ve always thought that there has to be a way to integrate our special needs community into the typical community to give them an insight and look to down syndrome, autism and special needs adults and how they’re doing something that everybody takes for granted,” said F.R.I.E.N.D.S. executive director Ann Foyt. F.R.I.E.N.D.S. stands for families, respect, inspire, educate, Down syndrome, special needs. To include their members in the annual Gasparilla festivities, it created a krewe.

The Gasparilla 321 Krewe was started this year with hopes of F.R.I.E.N.D.S. having its own float for over 100 members with Down syndrome or other special needs. The Krewe is named 321 to represent the third copy of the 21st chromosome that leads to Down syndrome.

“For right now, I think we are just going to put together a krewe. … I’m sure

By Lily Belcher

it’s going to be easy because when I pitched this to the community, I had such a big response. So, I know it would be really popular,” said Foyt.

In order to have its own float, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. needs to raise money to build or purchase a parade float. The nonprofit is looking for sponsors to help fund the purchase of a float or pirate costumes for its members.

“We have a wonderful community. The special needs community here in Tampa is very supportive of each other,” said Foyt.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is also hosting a bingo and brunch fundraiser on Saturday, May 20 to raise money for its organization. The event will take place at the Lucaya Lake Clubhouse from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and will ofer designer bags and rafe baskets as prizes. Tickets for the event cost $50 in advance online or $60 at the door and come with 10 bingo cards, brunch and drinks, including a taste of local wines.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is a Tampa Bay-area nonprofit that provides special needs resources, information and support for families. For more information, visit www.friendssupport.org or call 813-245-2782.

SOUTHSHORE INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS EXPANDS AND NOW OFFERS LIFE INSURANCE

Michelle Mosher is celebrating her nine-year anniversary of ofering business and personal insurance to Hillsborough County residents through Southshore Insurance Professionals.

Mosher opened the company in March of 2014 after working in the insurance industry for 20 years. The Seminole County native moved to Tampa and started working as a medical and dental claims processor. She then transitioned to insurance sales and service and went on to having her own agency.

“The most rewarding part of what we do is helping someone when the unexpected happens to them and being there for them during their time of need with a claim,” said Mosher.

Southshore Insurance Professionals ofers personal and commercial insurance to meet the needs of over 1,500 clients. The Riverview agency ofers home, auto, boat, ATV, RV and business insurance. Mosher also reobtained her license to write life insurance at the beginning of the year to meet a need she saw among her clients. Southshore Insurance Professionals is also a member of the Insurance Agency Owners Alliance.

“I believe our mission to educate our clients and community about insurance and coverage sets us apart from our competi-

By Lily Belcher

tion. We are deeply rooted in our community and are local supporters of all things Southeastern Hillsborough County. We love it here and we love our clients,” said Mosher.

The Southshore Insurance Professionals team also publishes frequent blog posts on its website to inform clients about insurance tips and myths. Through the blog, Mosher can explain diferent types of insurance and how to choose the right policy for a company or individual.

Mosher and her three employees have faced the challenges of being an insurance agency in Florida. Specifically, Mosher has been challenged by the property insurance crisis that is afecting agencies and policy holders. However, she has been able to continue to provide a healthy and successful business for her employees and the clients that depend on them.

“I am proud of being able to provide a place for my employees to earn a living in our community. They live and work here too, and I’m proud our clients support us in every endeavor,” said Mosher.

For more information on Southshore Insurance Professionals or to get a quote, visit https://southshoreins.com/ or call 813-4487580. Mosher’s ofce is located at 11216 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview.

Michelle Mosher and her team at Southshore Insurance Professionals ofer a variety of personal and corporate insurance plans for their Hillsborough County clients.

BUSCH GARDENS HONORS MILITARY WITH FREE PARK ADMISSION FOR ACTIVE DUTY, VETERANS AND FAMILIES

Staf Report

Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay

is honoring military veterans and up to three guests with free one-day admission to its parks from now through Sunday, July 9. Active-duty military and their guests continue to enjoy one-day complimentary admission throughout the year. The ofers are part of Busch Gardens’ long-standing Waves of Honor program that salutes active-duty military members, veterans and their families by ofering special pricing and promotions throughout the year.

For more than 20 years, Busch Gardens has been proud to provide complimentary park access to members of the United States military. More than 10 million guests — active-duty military members, veterans and their families — have enjoyed free admission to the company’s parks. Whether it’s educational animal experiences or thrilling attractions, Busch Gardens invites military families for a day of family fun.

“We take great pride in providing military members and their families the opportunity to create memories at one of our parks,” said Marc Swanson, chief executive ofcer of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “Extending free park admission to military service members, veterans and their families allows us to show our utmost appreciation to all the brave individuals who serve and

sacrifice for our county. We are honored to continue this long-standing tradition as a small gesture of our deep gratitude towards members of our military.” Eligible U.S. military veterans and retirees can register for complimentary single-day tickets for themselves and up to three dependents before Sunday, May 14 at www.wavesofhonor.com. After registering, all tickets must be redeemed at the park by July 9.

U.S. active-duty, activated or drilling reservist and National Guardsmen also can take advantage of one complimentary admission for themselves and up to three dependents per year to Busch Gardens. Additional discounts and ofers are available for active military and veterans through MWR and ITT ofces on U.S. military bases and online at www.wavesofhonor.com. These ofers are available year-round and may difer by park.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, ofering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA-accredited zoo with thousands of animals representing more than 200 species and exciting seasonal events all year, providing unrivaled experiences for guests of every age.

For more information, visit www.buschgardenstampa.com.

GRAND OPENING OF FIRST FLORIDA LOCATION OF LET THERE BE ROCK MUSIC SCHOOL IN RIVERVIEW

If you or your child have ever dreamed of being a music star, Let There Be Rock School, a combination music lesson facility and after-school rock ’n’ roll center, is here. It recently celebrated its grand opening in Riverview with a ribbon-cutting and family activities. Whether you or your child wants to be a musician, singer, recording engineer or songwriter, this unique school has something for all ages and skill levels.

Behind the Florida debut of the Let There Be Rock School franchise are business partners Kevin Sitaras and Dave Cortino. The school ofers guitar, bass, drums, piano, ukulele, mandolin, voice and audioa production instruction with four vetted instructors. Both Sitaras and Cortino have invested heavily in providing their students with the best guitars, amps, drums, sound production software and more, and the school proudly features vintage ’80s to the most modern musical equipment.

In addition to lessons, students can join a band and even opt to perform an original song at a real concert venue every two to three months. The school will also feature a summer camp geared toward songwriting.

The antithesis of stufy, Let There Be Rock School boasts an arcade with six machines and a seating area for guests to relax or play video games on the 65-inch TV. In the lobby, walls are covered with Sitaras’ show posters and memorabilia, along with posters of

bands the school has gotten signed to labels.

“The biggest concept behind this school is community. We wanted to build a community around a school. Rather than a company fueled solely by profit, we wanted to create a place where people can come and hang out and feel fully welcomed for their lessons or band rehearsals,” explained Sitaras. “We look forward to building a home for as many people as possible.”

Cortino said, “We want to create a safe, inclusive space where musicians of all ages can gather and be encouraged to play music, write and network.”

Sitaras and Cortino know life is hectic. That is why Let There Be Rock School ofers a flexible schedule where students can take weekly 30-minute lessons or 60-minute rehearsals on weekdays after school and on weekends.

Let There Be Rock School’s grand opening even featured beignets compliments of the Daily Beignets truck, beverages and live performances by local bands from three diferent school locations. There was also a 50/50 cash rafe to support Habitat for Humanity.

Let There Be Rock School is located at 9366 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview. Its hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 3-9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; and Sunday by appointment. Enrollment is open for ages 4 to adult. Visit https://ltbrsriverview.com/ for more information.

BLOOMINGDALE’S CHURCH NAMED WRESTLING COACH OF THE YEAR

By Jane Owen

good program into a great program. He challenges the boys to be better wrestlers every day, and they have responded,” Bogue said. The wrestlers have benefitted from his strong work ethic.

KRAZY KUP OWNER FRANK TRUNZO’S AUCTIONEER STORY

Frank Trunzo, owner of Krazy Kup in Plant City, is the head auctioneer for Sotheby’s Concierge Luxury Real Estate Auctions. Trunzo’s path to this auspicious role has been an interesting one.

Bloomingdale High School wrestling coach Mark Church was named this year’s Joel Medgebow Memorial Wrestling Coach of the Year. He was presented the award at the Hillsborough County School District meeting on March 30. The award is given yearly to honor the memory of Robinson High School wrestling coach Joel Medgebow.

Church took over as head coach this year at Bloomingdale after serving as an assistant for the last five years. He decided he could not leave the athletes after the previous coach, Dennis Kitko, moved overseas.

He not only didn’t leave them, but he also led them to victory. Ten wrestlers competed at regionals, six wrestlers competed at states and four wrestlers finished the season as state medalists. Church is also the assistant girls’ wrestling coach.

Sara Bogue, Bloomingdale High School’s athletic director, said Church teaches resilience.

“Coach Church has done a phenomenal job with our wrestling team. It has been exciting to watch him turn a really

“Coach Church is a great coach because he is always there for us ready to work. He always pushes us to our limits, and he helps us learn from our mistakes,” said junior wrestler J.R. Singer.

Coach Church focuses on conditioning and teaching basics. He credits the wrestlers, administration and parents that believed in him.

“None of it would have been possible if it weren’t for the kids who believed in me as much as I believed in them, especially as a first-year head coach. I was honored from day one that the admin, coaches, wrestlers and parents all entrusted me, which allowed me to keep it simple and just focus on wrestling,” Church said.

“It was definitely humbling to receive such an award from my fellow coaching peers. It’s also really cool to have my name on the same trophy with my mentor and coach — the legendary Russ Cozart,” Church added.

He wrestled under Cozart at Brandon High School. Church was the 1995 state champion for 112 lbs.

Trunzo grew up in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. He worked as a railroad brakeman and a lead singer in a production rock band in Texas. The latter did not last long, and he moved back to Pittsburg, where became an antique dealer. He was then hired on to be an auctioneer apprentice. He became a prominent auctioneer in Pittsburg and then landed in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he became the go-to celebrity auctioneer. He was thriving in the business.

Unfortunately, his personal life was not so successful. Following a divorce from his first wife, he moved back to Pittsburg, where he met the love of his life: his wife, Wenda. Trunzo explained, “During our time in Pittsburg, my antiques and auction knowledge landed me a position as head auctioneer of the then world-famous Great Gatsby Architectural Antiques Auction in Atlanta.”

Trunzo continued, “A sudden death of the owner ended that quest but opened a door to become head auctioneer at Dargate Galleries, a newly formed upscale antiques and art gallery in Pittsburg.”

By Kathy L. Collins

Trunzo was then ofered a job in Florida. “In 10 days, I won the state auctioneer championship and two auto auctioneer jobs,” Trunzo explained. “Success of a contract auctioneer was mine. I was working contract auto auctions throughout the East Coast every day. Then, to my dismay, the internet captured the market. Trunzo then established a benefit auction business, which took

of. Then, another opportunity presented itself. “I was

ofered head auctioneer of a newly formed luxury real estate auction company. It was a big gamble,” Trunzo said.

“I have pedigree now. I went from selling items for one dollar in a country hall auction barn to selling multimillion dollar properties,” Trunzo said.

Trunzo has conducted over 5,000 auctions valued at over 5 billion dollars. “I hold the world record for the most expensive properties sold at live auction. I have conducted two historic auctions at Sotheby’s New York gallery and one in London,” Trunzo added.

To keep up the energy he needs Trunzo owns the popular Krazy Kup cafe offering live music, authenic cofee, events and private rooms, located at 101 EJ Arden Mays Blvd. Plant City. For info, visit www.krazykup.com.

Coach Church received the Joel Medgebow Memorial Wrestling Coach of the Year award at the Hillsborough County School District meeting on March 30.

Frank Trunzo received the much-coveted White Glove Award for 100 percent sellthrough. He sold an incredible $38 million in just 58 minutes.