Valrico
10
May 2022 Volume 19, Issue 5
Ph: 813-657-2418
COMING JUNE 9-12 ARTICLE ON PAGE 10
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
BAYCARE’S FARMER’S MARKET YOUNG VALRICO RESIDENT SINGS COMING TO BLOOMINGDALE ON NATIONAL ANTHEM AT A MIAMI MARLINS GAME SATURDAY, MAY 21 By Sharon Still By Kathy L. Collins pictures. Her voice was compared with the legendary singer Céline Dion.” According to her mom, Mishra was not nervous. In fact, she was excited and very happy to perform. Priya said, “Pranysqa wants to make her community proud, and she will continue to sing the national anthem to show her love for the United States and for veterans. She wants to share her voice with the whole world.” In her spare time, Mishra loves to draw and compose music using different software on the computer. According to her mom, she is a very clean and tidy person. In her free time, she loves to play with her
hosted in-person as well as virtually. This space will also be available for community events. Several times a year, BayCare HealthHubs host these unique farmer’s markets featuring local vendors and typically drawing crowds of all ages with attendance ranging from 100 to 200 guests. This will be the last one in the area until fall. BayCare’s upcoming farmer’s market will feature vendors offering fresh produce, jewelry, handcrafted candles and more. Photo courtesy of BayCare Health System.
Valrico resident Pranysqa Mishra recently received an imitation to sing the national anthem before a large stadium crowd at a Miami Marlins baseball game. Following her rendition, Mishra was greeted by the Miami Marlins manager, Don Mattingly.
BayCare HealthHubs are designed for residents to have a complete health and wellness experience that will make people’s busy lives easier and more convenient. BayCare HealthHubs share space with partners so that residents can take care of their health needs, their pet’s health, grab some tea and check out technology gadgets, all on the same visit. There are still limited vendor spots available for the farmer’s market. Booths are outdoors and free of charge. BayCare’s Bloomingdale/Valrico facility is located at 2470 Bloomingdale Ave. For more information or to inquire about becoming a vendor, visit www.baycare.org/ baycare-farmers-markets-2022.
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
Seven-year-old Pranysqa Mishra recently sang the national anthem at a recent Miami Marlins baseball game. While this would make most adults quake in their boots, Mishra is already an old hand at singing in front of large crowds. The Valrico resident won a contest and was selected to sing the national anthem at an NBA game for the Washington Wizards. Then, she received an invitation from the LA Lakers and also sang virtually for Miami Marlins during COVID-19. According to Mishra’s mother, Priya, “The Marlins liked her so much that she got an invitation this year to sing in person.” Priya added, “Pranysqa was super excited and very happy to perform.” Priya said, “She had a fun time. After her performance, player Jazz Chisolm and Marlins Manager Dan Mattingly personally came to congratulate her, stating it was an amazing rendition. She also had a fan moment—spectators were applauding her and taking
baby sister. Mishra’s in the second grade. Her family recently relocated to the Valrico area from Canada. She will attend Lithia Springs Elementary School. Her favorite subjects in school are music and science. Mishra started singing at the age of 2. She started taking singing lessons when she was 7 years old from a private tutor in Atlanta. When she grows up, Mishra wants to be a pop singer and music composer.
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BayCare HealthHub’s free farmer’s market will be happening on Saturday, May 21 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Offerings of fresh produce, handcrafted items, plants, local honey and more will be available at the BayCare’s facility in Bloomingdale. It will be a family affair with special treats from food trucks and activities like face painting for the children. Guests can tour the HealthHub facilities, learn about BayCare services or visit the BayCare TechDeck and fitness centers. Those who participate in the tour can receive a $5 coupon to spend on produce goods at the market. “Our HealthHub locations are created to bring the community together,” said Judy Ruskell, director of East Ambulatory Campuses at BayCare. “We’re not only here to provide top quality care but also to bring people together where they can enjoy their time outdoors with their families.” While at the farmer’s market, check out BayCare Health Hub Bloomingdale’s recently completed state-of-the-art Demo Kitchen, an exciting new space where professional chefs and dieticians will teach courses on how to use foods to improve health. These fun cooking classes will be
Anya Shapiro, a 5-year-old from Riverview, got a pet therapy visit from Romeo, a 6-year-old, long-haired German shepherd, and his handler, Bill Bergsma, also from Riverview. Romeo’s been a pet therapy dog at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South for three years. For more information and full story, see page 18.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 19, Issue 5
May 2022
Valrico Edition
NEW VALUE-ADDED MEMBERSHIP MODEL AT HIGH 5 INC.
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IN-DEPTH WITH DAVIS ALLOWS FOR CLOSER LOOK AT HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS By Linda Chion
Staff Report
Everyone feels like they belong at High 5 Inc.—and now they officially can. This nonprofit is known for superior educational, athletic, aquatic and recreational programs for all ages and needs is converting to a new membership model to offer more programs and privileges to children, teens, athletes, adults and those with special needs. “Just as High 5 is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of the Brandon community, this new membership model will include more benefits and programs that make a positive difference in the experience of its members,” said CEO Chuck Burgess. From more after-school programs to expanded athletic facilities, High 5 has been adding, increasing, enhancing and refreshing many of its offerings, with many more on the way. Some of the improvements that can already be experienced include: •A new playground area and walkways. •A complete resurfacing of its existing hard courts for tennis. •Eight brand-new Pickleball courts. •A wide-open space newly created for those with special needs in the TRIDENT program. •New competition-ready starting blocks in the 50-meter swimming pool. •Brand-new locker rooms. •Upgraded AC systems. “These recent improvements are just the beginning of the many benefits that High 5’s members, their families, participating athletes and the special needs community will
experience with the new membership model,” said Burgess, who added that additional benefits include: •Special pricing with greater savings. •Early registration for after-school, summer camp and athletic programs. •Exclusive invitations to members-only events. •Bigger, better facilities. •Faster check-in. •Brand-new opportunities for cross-program training at reduced rates. •Member-driven discounts on summer camp, court rentals, merchandise and more. “High 5’s membership opportunities will allow us to create an even greater community feel in all our programs,” said Burgess. “With a goal of bringing more people together, we’ve created ‘stay awhile spaces,’ member perks, cool member-themed events and unique opportunities for families. Plus, we’ve actually lowered our program pricing with the membership knowing that families are feeling the effects of pricing increases elsewhere. That’s the High 5 way.” High 5 Inc. is a community-based nonprofit organization providing superior after-school, academic, athletic, water safety, sports and recreation and special needs programs that enhance physical, mental and spiritual well-being. High 5’s mission is based on five pillars of service, which include After-School Education, Learn to Swim, Special Needs Education, Sports and Recreation and Community Partnerships. For information, contact High 5 Inc. at 813-689-0809 or visit high5inc.com.
Through online vidcareer field to be.” eos hosted by Addison Principal Marcos RoDavis, school officials driguez said gaining said it’s never too early life skills through the to research the wide program “is huge and range of choices and instrumental,” even if programs available in students decide not to Hillsborough Counpursue careers in auty Public Schools for tomotive technology. Addison Davis (left), superintendent of students within and At Armwood High outside its attendance Hillsborough public schools, in the In-Depth School in Seffner, Davis with Davis video shot at Bloomingdale High explored the school’s boundaries. “Our in-depth seg- School with Principal Marcos Rodriguez. collegiate academy, ments strive to take which allows students an in-depth look at our to earn their liberal staff, our students and arts Associate in Arts programs that make (A.A.) degree through our district to great,” Hillsborough Commusaid Davis, the school nity College while also district’s superintenmeeting the requiredent of schools. “We ments for their high want to make sure that school diplomas. Addison Davis (left), superintendent of all of our families and Hillsborough public schools, in the In“It’s not just a students know about Depth with Davis video shot at Armwood cost-saving measure,” every one of our amaz- High School with Collegiate Academy said teacher Theodore ing opportunities within Newfield, adding that it Instructor Theodore Newfield. our schools.” allows students “to exAt Bloomingdale High School in Valrico, plore other career opportunities they might Davis talked with teacher Richard Fortney, not even be aware of,” even if they change whose automotive services program allows their minds by graduation. Better to change students to earn Automotive Service Excel- their minds now, Newfield said, “rather than lence (ASE) certifications. when they get off to college.” The ASE certification has “major, massive In-Depth with Davis segments include name recognition,” Fortney said. “When you topics that cover mental health, virtual edwalk in with an ASE certification, that says ucation, school reopening issues, Hispanic you know what you’re talking about. You Heritage Month, Black History Month, kinhave earned the right to be in that automo- dergarten readiness, magnet choice options, tive shop. You are above where everybody career and technical education programs, else is just walking off the street.” environmental studies and agriculture One student said he took the class “to get programs. View for yourself at https:// basic knowledge of my car” and that since www.youtube.com/results?search_quethen it has “slingshot into what I want my ry=in-depth+with+davis+channel.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 19, Issue 5
Valrico Edition
May 2022
Page 5
CHANNING PARK NEIGHBORS ORGANIZE CANDIDATE MEET & GREET By Marie Gilmore represent the governor in your area.” According to organizer Rick Kunz, “Some months ago, a group of six of us, all neighbors in the Channing Park neighborhood, got together and decided to host a meet and greet of candidates at our neighborhood clubhouse.” Candidates were given a few minutes to present their platform and answer questions from the audiChanning Park neighbors hosted a political meet and greet with ence. eight upcoming election candidates. “The idea was to let the A small group of Channing Park candidates speak for themneighbors organized a community selves and answer questions that meet and greet of the local candidates spoke to our concerns,” said Kunz, who for the upcoming election and neigh- is also the committeeman for Precinct bors were happy to hear that South- 700 for the Republican Party. “We eastern Hillsborough County is a point were encouraging neighbors to hear of great interest for all parties. for themselves what the candidates The meeting, held at the Channing thought and then decided who best Park Clubhouse in late February, was represented their views.” attended by about 30 or so neighbors Rick, his wife, Kris, and other neighand eight candidates. The candidates bors distributed over 700 invitation included: cards to Channing Park and beyond. For the school board, there were MeThe primary election will be held on lissa Snively (District 4), up for reelec- Tuesday, August 23 with early voting tion, and both Roshaun Gendrett and from Monday through Sunday, August Aly Legge for District 6 at large. 8-21. This year’s general election will For county commissioner, there were be held Tuesday, November 8 with Joshua Wostel and Chase Harrison for early voting from Monday through District 7, Noelle Licor for District 4 Sunday, October 24-November 6. The and Donna Cameron Cespeda for Dis- deadline to register to vote for the pritrict 5. mary election is Monday, July 25. Representing Governor Ron DeSanFor more information on the upcomtis’ office was Taylor Sanchez, who ing election, candidates in your area or was happy to be included and added, about how to file to run for office, visit “I am available to the community to www.votehillsborough.com.
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Valrico Edition
BLAND ENG LOOKS BACK ON HIS TIME IN BRANDON AS NEW JOB CALLS HIM TO FORT MYERS
By Linda Chion
Bland Eng, workers. “Probthe outgoing ably the most chief executive heart-wrenching officer of HCA thing was there Florida Branwere people in don Hospital, the community is taking with who did not make him memories it. There were and mementoes, some fantastic including an success stories, award from the but that made Greater Branit all that much don Chamber of harder when Commerce and people you know, lessons learned people you care in the wake of a about, people you historic health knew through Bland Eng, outgoing HCA Florida Brandon pandemic. the chamber, did Hospital CEO. Eng, who not.” succeeded outgoing CEO Mike Fencil in The community offered great support, 2012, leaves Brandon to start his new Eng said, including people who donated duties as chief development officer for food and services and held signs outside HCA’s Fort Myers market. the hospital thanking health care workAt the podium on March 31 at the ers for their care and compassion. He Sheraton Tampa Brandon Hotel, Eng said he often is asked, “How do nurses thanked attendees at the chamber’s an- do it? How do you do it?”, and the annual meeting for the time he spent as a swer is simple. “We all went into health volunteer member and treasurer for the care because we wanted to serve people chamber board of directors. Upon re- in need,” Eng said, “and to be there for ceiving a chairman’s award from outgo- our communities.” ing Chair Jennifer Lopez, the FishHawk During his Brandon tenure, Eng overresident talked about his love for the saw the recruitment of physicians and community and what he called the two specialists, building upgrades and admost difficult years of his career to date. ditions and a myriad of new services, “I don’t remember a time where I’ve including for pediatric emergencies, regotten so many calls from people in the constructive surgery and comprehensive community who I knew who were sick,” stroke treatments. The outgoing CEO Eng said in an interview after the meet- takes special note of the ‘A’ Leapfrog ing about the enduring impact the coro- Hospital Safety Grade Brandon received navirus pandemic has had on health care in the fall for a sixth consecutive time.
Volume 19, Issue 5
May 2022
Valrico Edition
NELSON ELEMENTARY STUDENTS LEARN TO SAVE A LIFE WITH CPR
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LOSING TO WIN MOVIE FILMING BRINGS DEAN CAIN TO VALRICO By Marie Gilmore
By Kate Quesada
Students at Nelson Elementary School used teddy bears donated by the Rough Riders when learning CPR at school last month.
A group of local elementary school students recently learned how to save a life with help from some fluffy friends. Nelson Elementary School physical education teacher and Valrico resident Leslie Wheeler thought outside of the box when preparing her CPR unit last month. Wheeler teaches compression-only CPR to her students but noticed she was missing a vital part for the instruction. “Because we only have one set of mannequins to use, it is not enough for an entire class, and sometimes the students might not feel comfortable practicing on the mannequins,” she explained. “So, I reached out to the Rough Riders to see if they would be willing to help.” The Rough Riders are a U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment. “They are well known in the Tampa Bay
community for distributing thousands of teddy bears to hospitals, centers for abused women and children, community health centers, special needs day care center and foster children,” she explained. Wheeler, who has been a member of the Krewe of Celts for the past 10 years, has a connection with the Rough Riders as they also participate in the Gasparilla Pirate Festival as a Krewe. The Rough Riders donated 20 large teddy bears to the program. “The use of teddy bears made the learning experience a little less scary,” she said. “When they learn about the circumstances of when you need to administer CPR, it is a very frightening moment to imagine. When the students were watching the video, I could see how engaged they were. They knew this was a serious lesson they were about to learn.” This is the first year that Wheeler has taught CPR to first, second and third grade students, but she is looking forward to making it an annual event. “Last year, I only taught it to my fourth and fifth graders,” she said. “This year, I introduced it to first through fifth grade. This is a permanent unit that will be taught yearly. The more the students practice, the easier it will be if they are ever in a situation where CPR will be needed.” To learn more about the Rough Riders, visit www.tamparoughriders.org.
A national planned to be faith-based submitted to movie prothe streaming duction comservices and pany now has be available a presence in live through Valrico. JCa new famFilms Studios i l y - f r i e n d l y, has launched faith-based its most restreaming cent proapp, JCduction F i l m s Behind the scenes during club, JCP l u s , the shooting of Films Stucoming Losing to Win, a dios Tamsoon. new faith-based, pa. And To date, full-length immediJCFilms feature film ately after has proshot in Valrico forming, d u c e d in April. the club over 50 put its first faith and full-length feature film into production. family films. Jason Campbell, president Filming for seven days in April, the mov- of JCFilms Studios, explained, “Each of ie was shot on location in Valrico, Lithia, these Production Clubs are being creatPlant City, Riverview, Brandon and Tam- ed to offer both education and opportupa. The film, called Losing to Win, fol- nity for people of faith to get involved in lows four candidates through a reality Christian films. Each location is designed show challenge and shares their story as a hub for Christian movie making, of regaining faith, building relationships from script writing to acting; the goal of and finding support through friends. these clubs is to tell Christ-centered reIn March, JCFilms Studios Tampa put demptive stories through film by creatout a casting call for a faith-based mov- ing compelling, entertaining and wholeie featuring Dean Cain, best known for some content.” playing Superman in the Lois & Clark: In addition, Campbell hopes JCFilms The New Adventures of Superman se- Plus will become the premier platform ries, who has been a long-standing sup- for the growing number of independent porter of JCFilms. Cain was in town in Christian filmmakers. May for the finale of the filming at 5th “As more faith films are being proGear Fitness in Valrico. The owners, Jes- duced, it’s time we have our own digital sica Adams and Gretchen Trasorras, are platform,” Campbell said. also the directors of the Tampa Club and JCFilms Plus is also going to serve as have been involved in professional act- the distribution platform for the minising and training for years. try’s production clubs. These nationwide “I had the opportunity to be on set and film clubs will produce over 20 films in be a principal character in two JCFilms the next year. productions,” explained Adams, “and we JCFilms Plus has already been enwanted to bring a production club to the dorsed by top Christian leaders in film, Tampa area because we think we can music and church leadership. The vidproduce really great movies right there eo-on-demand platform is set to launch in the area.” in June. The cast and crew filmed for a toFor more information on the clubs, tal of nine days and the movie is now upcoming productions and the new in post-production. Once released, it is streaming service, visit www.jcfilms.org. Private Charters: 4 hour, 6 hour, 8 hour & 2.5 hour Sunset Cruises. Cruising the Alafia River and Tampa Bay.
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Valrico Edition
CARNEVALE COMES TO LAKELAND AT RP FUNDING CENTER
Staff Report
sound that emerges from a classical backdrop but then transcends beyond the limits of any single creative expression, masterfully placing his instrument at the forefront of the orchestra. Now, Hamilton presents his mystical and electrifying masquerPuerto Rican saxophonist, classical pop recording artist, musical director, and composer Jazz a d e Hamilton performs his latest concert production Carnevale at the RP Funding Center on showFriday, September 30 at 7:30 p.m. casing masterPuerto Rican saxophonist, classical pieces pop recording artist, musical director from a and composer Jazz Hamilton performs such as “Song his latest production Carnevale at the Secret Garden,” “Libertango,” “Over the RP Funding Center on Friday, September Rainbow,” “Green Hornet,” Aranjuez” and “Bésame Mucho,” along with many 30 at 7:30 p.m. Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, Hamil- more. All this intertwined with his original ton knew he was destined to become a musician since the age of 3. At the age arrangements, orchestrations and spellof 4 and 5, he serenaded his neighbors binding interpretations. Come and celefrom the balcony of his grandmother’s brate love in a unique immersive musical third-floor apartment, singing the most experience with the organic, smooth and famous songs of his favorite salsa artist, warm tone of Hamilton in this dynamic Héctor Lavoe. His introduction to jazz and breathtaking Book of Moments that was unique; with a father that was an today he calls Carnevale. The RP Funding Center is located avid collector of good music recordings, he was exposed to different genres at minutes between Orlando and Taman early age. Then one day, he found the pa in Lakeland off Interstate 4 at 701 original recording of “Body and Soul” by W. Lime St.; the RP Funding Center is the great Coleman Hawkins and fell in a short drive from anywhere in Central love with the saxophone and jazz music Florida. Regular box office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. forever. Tickets are on sale now and cost $44, Known for his recordings of classical, pop, jazz, Latin jazz, contemporary jazz $55, $66, $77 or $97. For tickets, visit and salsa genres, his main instruments the RP Funding Center Box Office, call are alto and soprano saxophones. Con- toll-free at 863-834-8111 or online at sequently, Hamilton crafted a distinctive www.rpfundingcenter.com.
Volume 19, Issue 5
TD BANK OPENS VALRICO LOCATION ON BLOOMINGDALE Staff Report Valrico residents ty gatherings and recently received volunteer events. a new option in We’re proud to banking. TD Bank support organizaopened a location tions like A Kid’s on Bloomingdale Place—an organiAvenue last month zation whose misoffering checking sion is to provide and savings aca safe, loving and counts, small businurturing home for ness checking acfoster children— counts, mortgages, through food drives TD Bank opened a location on Bloomingdale credit cards and and other initiaAvenue last month. home equity lines tives. Additionally, of credit or loans. Photos courtesy of Maria Cruz, TD Bank. we’ve worked with Specialists are also local high schools in available at this locateaching financial litertion, including mortacy classes for juniors gage loan officers and and seniors, discussing financial advisors. important topics such “We’re thrilled to as using credit wisely.” bring our newest TD Groves feels that the Bank store to the Valbank is in a unique porico community,” said sition because it has the Carole Groves, retail strength, scale and exmarket manager for perience of a large instiTD Bank’s Tampa Bay region. “This location tution but is able to retain the personalized is the 157th TD Bank store in Florida, and feel of a regional bank. one of several we’ll be opening across the re“A key part of our culture is our passion gion and the state over the next few years. for our customers—we call it “WOW!” It’s We’re passionate about contributing to the about creating legendary customer experilocal economy, about being trusted financial ences, having fun and eliminating the things advisors to our consumer and business cus- people don’t like about banks,” she said. “Our tomers and about hiring local talent.” customers aren’t an account number. They According to Groves, the bank is excited are people with goals and aspirations, and to become part of the community. being the human bank means we know our “Our commitment to community is big- customers and they know us—and we’re ger than our stores, our products and ser- supporting them on their financial journey.” vices or even the dollars we give back,” said The bank is located at 2170 Bloomingdale Groves. “Our employees pride themselves on Ave. and can be reached at 813-261-4413. showing up for local fundraisers, communi- To learn more, visit www.TD.com.
May 2022
Valrico Edition
GROOMS FAMILY INDUCTED INTO FLORIDA 4-H HALL OF FAME
By Linda Chion
At The Regent The 4-H program last month to reprovides youth ceive one award, with opportunities Carl and Dee Dee to develop skills, Grooms went home accrue knowledge with recognition and explore career for two, including paths with projfor their induction ects and events on into the Florida 4-H a broad selection Hall of Fame. of topics ranging “That was a from agriculture to great honor, I robotics to mock didn’t see that com- At the Hillsborough 100 luncheon on April 27 at government. ing,” said Carl, who The Regent (from left to right): Carl Grooms; Dee Betty Jo Tompearlier, on behalf of Dee Grooms and her sister, Denise Alderman; and kins, HSWCD execKristi Grooms with her fiancé, Derek Barnes. his family, acceptutive director, said Photo courtesy of Hillsborough Soil and ed the 2022 Outthe Grooms famWater Conservation District. standing Project ily, including son of the Year Award Dustin, and daughfrom the Hillsborough Soil and ter Kristi, were recognized by Water Conservation District her organization for sponsoring (HSWCD). a Hillsborough 100 strawberThe Grooms family owns ry U-pick to benefit youth proFancy Farms in Plant City, and grams and activities. this year it raised its 48th She noted as well that the strawberry crop. They also Grooms family for 16 years has own Fancy Farms Market off Drane Field sponsored strawberry U-picks in support Road at the Hillsborough/Polk County line, of Hillsborough County 4-H programs. where strawberry smoothies and cookies “They have always been community serare among the major draws. vants,” Tompkins said. “Like they say, serBoth honors were recognized at vice is in their DNA.” HSWCD’s 2022 Hillsborough 100 ConAs for Carl, “my whole life is a project, servation Challenge Kickoff Luncheon and and now I get an award for it,” he said. Awards Ceremony held on April 27 at The “Especially in agriculture, it’s a project evRegent in Riverview. In attendance was ery day and I want to thank my family and Michael Gutter, associate dean at the Uni- my wife. She’s my partner in business and versity of Florida Institute of Food and in crime and in everything else.” Carl said Agricultural Sciences, through which the that despite being in business since 1974, Florida 4-H program is operated. The hall he’s always learning, and that’s how it of fame honor, he said, recognizes “out- should be “in any business you’re in today.” standing partners and contributors to the Visit Fancy Farms at www.fancyfarmsFlorida 4-H program.” market.com.
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MICHAEL PERRY RECOGNIZED FOR WILDFIRE FIGHTING, PREVENTION WITH HILLSBOROUGH’S FOREVER CONSERVATION AWARD By Linda Chion The sixth anhelped contain nual Theodore 200 to 300 wildRoosevelt Hillsfires in the region, borough Forevwhich White said er Conservation made Perry “as Award has been equally compresented to a fortable fighting decorated Vietwildfires as he nam veteran was leading prewho started his scribed burns.” Florida Forest White also said Michael Perry (center) after receiving the county’s Service career as Theodore Roosevelt Hillsborough Forever Conservation Perry served as a towerman in a Award at the Hillsborough County Board of County “a passionate Valrico tower on educator about Commissioners’ meeting on April 20. the front lines of these crucial and Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County. prescribed burns. often misunderMichael Perry received the award from stood conservation efforts” and routinely the Hillsborough County commissioners at met with residents both to promote and their April 20 meeting. The conservation explain the benefits of prescribed burns award is given annually to an individual or and to lead wildlife fire training for volungroup for “attributes of true conservation teer firefighters. stewardship,” including “integrity in per“The firefighters, land managers and formance toward conservation goals” and other experts who conduct prescribed “persistence and dedication” to the long- burns, also called controlled fires, are term conservation of natural resources. unsung heroes,” White said. “Mr. Perry is Keep America Beautiful received the synonymous with this essential practice in award last, the first time a group was Hillsborough County.” honored. According to Commissioner StaIn return, Perry said it was “humbling to cy White, Perry received the award for his be up here today receiving this award,” and integral role in developing Hillsborough’s he thanked his family for their support and prescribed fire program. friends through the county’s Jan K. Platt Proponents of prescribed fires as a land Environmental Lands Acquisition and Promanagement program said they promote tection Program (ELAPP), which to date healthy ecosystems by clearing out com- has protected more than 60,000 acres of peting vegetation. Moreover, White said, rare and important habitat. Launched in the fires cycle nutrients into the soil, 1987, the program was renamed in 2014 provide food for wildlife and stimulate in honor of Platt, a former commissioner growth and seed protection of fire-depen- and lifelong advocate for environmental dent plants. protection. According to county officials, Perry led For more information on the April 20 an estimated 200 prescribed burns and board meeting, visit www.HCFLGov.net.
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Valrico Edition
THE TAMPA BAY SUMMER RV SHOW OFFERS EVERYTHING IN ONE LOCATION By Sharon Still From seasoned People new to RVRVers to those ing will be amazed who have never at the conveniences stepped foot in a and technological recreational vehiadvances an RV can cle (RV), there is offer these days. sure to be someStandard features thing for everyone may include USB at the Florida RV ports, Wi-Fi hot Trade Association’s spots, tablet holdupcoming Tampa ers in the bunk beds Bay Summer RV There is plenty to see at the upcoming Tampa Bay and remote-control Show. Scheduled operation of various Summer RV Show. for Thursday to features. Many RVs Sunday, June 9-12 at the Floriare also designed for luxury, as da State Fairgrounds, the event they are constructed with handwill showcase many different crafted cabinetry, fireplaces, brands, models and floor plans elaborate entertainment sysof RVs as well as feature vendor tems, wine chillers and more. booths offering everything from When it comes to comfort, some RV windshield repair to decoraRV floor plans offer king, Sleep tive items and spill-proof dog bowls. There Number or memory foam beds; recliners; also will be a DJ, face painting and other air ride driver and passenger seats; and activities for the kids. much more. More people than ever are enjoying the Admission is $5 per adult; children ages RV lifestyle. According to Go RVing’s re- 16 and under are free. Military and first cent RV Owner Demographic Profile, the responders will receive $1 off the price of most comprehensive study of RV owner- admission for all days of the show and seship ever conducted, RV ownership has niors will receive a $1 discount on Thursincreased more than 62 percent in the last day, June 9. Upon entering, attendees can 20 years with a record 11.2 million house- sign up for door prizes; a $100 American holds owning an RV. Additionally, a stag- Express gift card will be awarded to an atgering 9.6 million households intend to buy tendee each day of the show. an RV in the next five years. Show hours are June 9-11, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., At the Tampa Bay Summer RV Show, RV and Sunday, June 12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Leashed dealerships will be there displaying new pets are welcome. motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels The Florida State Fairground is located and other types of RVs, all in one location. at 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. For further deGuests can tour the RVs and salespeople tails, visit www.frvta.org or call 813-741will be on hand to answer any questions. 0488.
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Volume 19, Issue 5
HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
By Jerry L. Mallams
With hurricane Bypass Canal Sysseason approachtem. This system ing, the Southwest routes floodwaFlorida Water ter from the HillManagement Dissborough River trict is preparing around the cities for a heightened of Tampa and risk of severe rain Temple Terrace, events, flooding providing protecand storm damtion from river age. Jerry Malflooding. Used in lams, operations 2004 during Hurbureau chief, exricane Jeanne, plained how the the canal system district works to diverted more prepare for the than 200 billion storm season by gallons of water, minimizing flood sparing homes risks throughout and businesses the 16-county realong the lower Jerry Mallams is a licensed professional geologist gion. Hillsborough River in Florida and has worked for the district for 25 Q: What does years. Jerry manages the 85 district-owned flood from flooding. Due control and water conservation structures and the district do to to their important canal rights of way within the 16-county area. prepare for hurriflood protection cane season? role, these strucA: Year-round, the district operates 85 tures are considered critical structures. water control structures in its 16-county Q: What actions does the district take area. These structures assist with flood during an active storm threat? protection, manage lake water levels and A: During an active storm threat, district prevent saltwater from flowing up fresh- officials activate its Emergency Operations water streams and creeks. To prepare for Center (EOC) to monitor tropical storms hurricane season, staff conduct annual hur- and hurricanes. Depending on the level of ricane readiness checks of all the district’s activation, the district will mobilize approstructures to ensure they are working priate emergency personnel to report to properly. This includes making certain all the EOC for extended shifts. Staff will monstructure gates are functioning correct- itor and document water levels and operate ly and that each emergency generator is water control structures on water bodies working and fully fueled. throughout the district’s 16-county area as Q: What is a critical structure? needed. EOC officials will maintain direct A: Some of our flood control structures communications with the state and affectare considered critical structures, such as ed county EOCs and distribute information the structures associated with the Tampa to the media, public and district employees.
May 2022
Valrico Edition
FLORIDA CULTURE AVAILABLE AT HONG KONG WILLIE ART STATION By Brad Stager The spire of lobster support has come trap buoys rising high from a very small enough to be seen by world of understanddrivers passing Ining people,” he said. terstate 75’s Fletcher But recycling the Avenue exit marks wood into art deeply the location of an enresonates with Joe, terprise that Owners a Florida native who Kim and Joe Brown as a child earned refer to as an “art money by selling usstation.” able ‘found assets’ The small wood- Kim and Joe Brown operate what they call an he discovered in the frame building fes- “art station” that offers paintings, honey and trash from a landworms. tooned with buoys, fill that operated on fishing nets and asproperty his family sorted objects that was once owned. a popular bait shop serving If a space needs a three-dilocal anglers’ needs is indeed mensional touch of Florida a gallery of Florida art—one deco, substantial branches of that serves up a taste sweetnatural driftwood, such as the ness as well. trove that washed ashore afThe art is the work of the ter Hurricane Irma struck the Hong Kong Willie PreservaKeys, are sometimes available. tion Art Group (HKWPAG) For those who enjoy honey, and exemplifies the ‘Florthe Browns also sell Tampa ida reuse’ genre. In the Gold, their unfiltered brand case of HKWPAG’s output, Joe Brown displays one of his which they harvest from that means painting na- ‘Florida reuse’ works of art. hives located on remote wilture-themed images on recovered wood derness properties. that has been salvaged from older strucAs for the worms, those are still sold tures in the Florida Keys which met their from the premises, but they are now for demise from stormy weather or property their castings, destined for gardens that redevelopment. Joe said the paintings he are in demand, though if a fishing enthuand Kim produce reflect the history of art siast wants a few wigglers, Joe said he’s in the Keys. happy to help out. “They didn’t have much in the way of art The Hong Kong Willie Art Station is supplies and couldn’t just get on the phone rated ‘Worth a Detour’ by travel website and order a canvas but there were plenty roadsideamerica.com, and you can find of wooden boards around, so they learned it near Exit 266 of I-75 at 12212 Morris how to dry and use them.” Joe added that Bridge Rd. in Tampa. You can also visit the the value of preservation art can be diffi- HongKongWillie Facebook page, or as Joe cult for some people to appreciate. “Our suggests, “Google Hong Kong Willie.”
Page 11
VILLAGE INN RIVERVIEW & BRANDON FRANCHISE WINS AWARD
By Sharon Still
Famous HospiDean LaFollette tality Inc. recentstated, “Our vily awarded the sion is simply area’s Village Inn this: to take care franchise owners of our guests its prestigious and our team by Franchisee of the delivering the Year award. The Lehan Village Inn franchise consists Breakfast all day long is what made Village of six Village Inn Inn famous. restaurants in the Greater Tampa area, including those in best family Brandon and Riverview, which Danny Le- dining exhan purchased in 2020. perience so Village Inn Pancake first opened its that each individual leaves with a sense doors in Denver, Colorado in 1958 and of well-being and satisfaction with our has been a fixture in the Brandon area great value.” for more than 40 years. With six deRaising Forks for Funds offers organicades of success, Village Inn has corpo- zations a chance to partner with Village rate and franchise restaurants totaling Inn to raise funds for its cause. Organimore than 200, located primarily in the zations are able to keep 20 percent of Rocky Mountain region, the Midwest, event sales. Village Inn partners with Arizona and Florida. different types of organizations, includVillage Inn is known for its made- ing 501(c)(3) nonprofits, teams, schools, from-scratch buttermilk pancakes, fresh university groups and community orgaeggs cooked in any style, sizzling bacon nizations. “Village Inn’s heritage is built and pots of steaming hot coffee—quali- on being active in the community,” Lety breakfast all day long. han said. The restaurant’s award-winning pies The Brandon restaurant is located like French silk, country apple and car- at 1995 W. Lumsden Rd. and can be amel pecan silk supreme are always reached at 813-657-7382. The Riverview a hit at holidays or any day, especially Village Inn, located at 10293 Big Bend Wednesdays, when guests enjoy a free Rd., can be reached at 813-741-3200. slice of pie with a required purchase. The restaurants are open seven days a The menu at Village Inn is not only week from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. and are also breakfast, as other options include fresh, open on Thanksgiving and Christmas never-frozen juicy burgers, freshly made Day. Choose dine-in, takeout or delivery, salads, all-American sandwiches and or try the drive-through at the Riverclassic dinners like chicken-fried steak view location. Orders are also accepted and pot roast. online. For more information, visit www. Director of Operations for Village Inn villageinn.com.
Page 12
Valrico Edition
OVER 500 POSITIVE REVIEWS SHOW PEOPLE LOVE ADVANCED ORAL SURGERY OF TAMPA IN VALRICO
By Sharon Still
Dr. Thomas Backeris recently joined Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa’s Valrico office, and the staff said people love him.
The light and cheerful atmosphere at Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa in Valrico is intended to take the fear out of going to the dentist. As evidenced by the more than 500 positive Google reviews with words like ‘professional,’ ‘friendly’ and ‘kind’ throughout, even by people with self-proclaimed fear of the dentist, people love it. “We realize that people are scared to visit the dentist, so we do what we can to create a more cheerful environment,” said Terry Brown, business manager. At Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa in Valrico, Dr. Jason Edwards and Dr. Thomas Backeris specialize in wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, complete teeth replacement (full arch) under IV sedation as well as other oral surgery needs using the latest techniques and advanced training. “Many dental practices offer limited tooth extractions or implants,” Brown added. “We specialize in these areas with outstanding patient care.” Dr. Edwards has extensive training in
facial trauma, pathology and reconstruction; anesthesia; craniofacial surgery; bone grafting; dental implants; and surgical dental extractions. His love for his job led him to participate in cleft lip and palate surgical missions in Mexico to benefit underprivileged children. “We manage each case … individually and customize treatment,” commented Dr. Edwards. “What remains consistent is treating each patient and family with care, dignity and compassion.” “Dr. Thomas Backeris joined last summer and is developing a very strong reputation for skill and care,” said Brown. He trained extensively in anesthesia, facial trauma and reconstruction, pathology, orthognathic surgery, complex bone grafting, dental implants and surgical dental extractions. “We are continually upgrading our technology, such as digital scanning to avoid the discomfort and time with traditional impressions,” added Brown. “We are growing and expect to add surgeons in the near future,” noting a newly acquired location in South Tampa. Advanced Oral Surgery of Tampa’s state-of-the-art Valrico office is at 2922 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. It is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and on Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, call 813-452-6380 or visit www.valricooralsurgery.com and www.advancedoralsurgerytampa.com.
Volume 19, Issue 5
TIRE DEMONSTRATION GIVEN TO STUDENTS AT PEPIN ACADEMIES By Kathy L. Collins Pepin Academies the assistance of offers an AutomoArtex Detail Suptive Maintenance ply. and Light Repair According to program. An introConti, there are ductory course is plenty of good offered as an elecjobs available tive. Steve Conti, a in the auto inveteran educator, dustry. He said, leads the depart“We teach the ment. Recently, basics so that Manny Ryals from students can get Hunter Engi- Pepin Academies in Riverview offers an Automo- a ground-level tive Maintenance and Light Repair program. neering brought job and then be a portable tire trained further.” demonstration to the Ryals said, “Working Riverview campus. Ryin the auto industry is als’ demonstration was a great way to make a held in a trailer. Conti living. I was considered said, “Every mechanic an essential worker. starts under a car port No one in the industry or in their mother’s gaceased to earn a living. rage.” People have to drive a Conti explained that car.” students learn the basics. This includes Thalia Gonzalez, a 10th grade student, how to read symbols, where to place a plans to take the course next year. “Hopejack, where the fluids are, how to write fully, in the future, I can learn more about service orders, how to dress appropriate- cars and how to fix them.” ly and how to greet customers. They also Alizah Smith, an 11th grade student, learn about suspension, tires and brakes. has taken the course twice. He wants to Conti further explained that Brandon become a police officer. Smith said, “I will Ford is partnering with the school to help be able to work at a car dealership while with ACE-certified training, which allows I am in college. It will also help when I am students to be hired as basic lube tech- working as police officer.” nicians, gain experience and move up to Addisen Grimes will be taking the more expert level positions. course next year. Grimes said, “This seems UTI (Universal Technical Institute) in interesting and like a good skill to have.” Orlando, which offers Automotive TechThe Pepin Academies Riverview camnology programs, has also come to the pus is located at 9304 Camden Field campus. Pkwy. For more information, please visit Conti would like an automotive detail- www.pepinacademies.com or call 813ing program added to the curriculum with 533-2999.
May 2022
Valrico Edition
Page 13
Page 14
Valrico Edition
Volume 19, Issue 5
OPERATION POLLINATION SEEKS COMMUNITY-BASED PROJECTS
TAMPA KIDS CAMP CREATES HOPE FOR AREA FOSTER CHILDREN
At the forefront entities seeking to of Rotary Internacreate, develop and tional’s Operation execute communiPollination initiative ty-based projects of is the Hillsborough their own. HSWCD Soil & Water Coninvites people to do so servation District along with an “action (HSWCD) and Roawareness project” tary Club of Branthrough its Hillsbordon Global Eco, ough 100 Conservawhich together have tion Challenge, which signed a pledge to in April kicked off its conduct one or more Photo courtesy of Linda Chion. fifth year. projects benefiting “When you realize The ‘Our Pollinators’ boxed mural, designed pollinators over the and painted by students, was part of the Hills- the population of the next two years. butterfly borough Soil & Water Conservation District’s monarch 1,800 sq. ft. exhibit at the Florida State Fair. The Brandon club, dropped more than formerly known as 80 percent over the the Rotary Club of past 20 years, and that Brandon South, adthe nation’s bee count opted its new name dropped 45.5 percent after Rotary Internabetween April 2020 tional adopted protecting the environment and April 2021, it’s very clear we have a very as its seventh focus area. To receive Rota- serious problem that impacts every single ry grants, projects must be affiliated with person,” said Betty Jo Tompkins, HSWCD’s one of its focus areas, which include as well executive director. promoting peace, fighting disease, saving Tompkins also is a Rotary Club of Brandon mothers and children, supporting educa- Global Eco member, whose president, Mike tion, growing local economies and providing Meegan, spearheads his club’s Operation clean water, sanitation and hygiene. Pollination efforts. His wife, Debbie Meegan, The focus on bees, bats, birds and but- past president of the Rotary Club of Branterflies, along with other pollinators, is a don, is set to become Rotary’s District 6890 critical endeavor, given that 75 percent of governor in 2022-23, a role Tompkins filled the approximately 1,330 crop plants grown in 2001-02. worldwide for food, fiber and medicines are For more information, visit www.opepollinated by such animals and insects, ac- ationpollination.net and www.Hillsborcording to the Operation Pollination pledge oughSWCD.com. You can contact Tompkins signed by HSWCD and Rotary representa- at 813-477-8332 and bjt6890@gmail.com. tives. Visit Rotary Club of Brandon Global Eco on Operation Pollination is open to individ- Facebook @BrandonGlobalEco. The club uals, families, schools, businesses, civic and meets 6 p.m. virtually on the second and youth groups, nonprofits and government fourth Monday of the month.
Executive Direcneeds junior countor Scott Mulhollen selors, ages 16-17, founded Tampa Kids to help with drama Camp in 2016 after and puppets. You several years of him can apply to be a and his wife, Kris, camp counselor at serving as foster tampakidscamp. parents. With the org/counselor-applitagline “Fostering cation. Hope for the Fu“The most amazture,” the couple, ing thing about who could no lonserving at camp is Tampa Kids Camp’s Royal Family Kids ger foster children Camp is looking for volunteer counselors to the difference you due to some health help transform the lives of foster children. No can make in a fosissues, decided to ter kid’s life,” said experience is needed. create a one-week camp to keep Mulhollen. “Even though we are only themselves involved with them a week, the impact afwhile creating a way fects them for life.” to focus on the foster “It is incredible to see many of children’s needs and these kids arrive the first day of provide a safe and nurcamp, and they are totally shut turing environment. down, shy and Through what they not talking to may call divine intervention, anyone,” deshortly after, a friend from church introscribed Mulduced them to Royal Family Kids Camp, hollen. “In just a weeklong overnight camp for foster a day or two, kids ages 6-12. every camper This summer, Royal Kids Camp, a breaks out of life-changing week of camp for children their shell and becomes the kid that they who have experienced abuse, neglect and deserve to be.” abandonment, will be held from Monday, In addition to the summer Royal Kids July 18 through Friday, July 22. Camp, Tampa Kids Camp also offers Teen “What makes our camp so unique is Reach Adventure Camp (TRAC), one for that we have a ratio of one adult to ev- boys and a separate one for girls, both for ery camper.” commented Mulhollen. “This ages 12-15. The next three-day weekend allows us to really treat each camper like TRAC camps will be held during spring royalty and give them a life-changing break 2023. week of camp.” Foster families can register with Tampa He added that with about 70 campers Kids Camp directly by emailing camp@ attending the camp, the organization is tampakidscamp.org. For further inforsearching for 70 volunteer camp coun- mation, visit www.tampakidscamp.org or selors over age 18. Additionally, the camp call 813-720-7470.
By Sharon Still
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Valrico Edition
May 2022
Page 15
Bingo Returns To St. Stephen Catholic Church
St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in Riverview is pleased to announce the return of bingo to its Family Life Center. The event is usually held on the fourth Tuesday of every month. The next Compiled by Jenny Bennett date is Tuesday, May jbennett@ospreyobserver.com 17, and it will begin at 6:30 p.m. The doors open at 5:30 p.m., and a concession stand will be available for refreshments. There will also be a 50/50 raffle, and proceeds F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Designer Bag Bin- from the evening will support community families in need and church groups like St. go, Brunch And Wine Tasting F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families, Respect, Inspire, Vincent de Paul. Education, Networking, Down syndrome, Special needs) is celebrating moms with Florida Strawberry Festival Ana designer bag bingo event on Saturday, nounces Record Attendance May 28. The event will take place at LuThe 87th annual Florida Strawberry Fescaya Lakes Clubhouse, located at 12116 tival ended in March with an outstanding Blue Pacific Dr. in Riverview from 11 a.m.-2 attendance record. The 11-day event drew p.m. Participants will get the chance to win 543,129 visitors to take part in concerts, luxurious handbags from the top brands, livestock shows, free entertainment, rides, including Coach, Vera Bradley, Dooney & food, arts and crafts vendors and more.
Designer Bag Bingo & Wine Tasting, Bingo, & More...
“We had a phenomenal run, and we are truly thankful,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis. “We had good weather, terrific crowds and everyone seemed to be enjoying time with their families.” The 2023 Florida Strawberry Festival will be held from March 2 through March 12. For more information, visit www.flBourke, Michael Kors and Kate Spade. En- strawberryfestival.com. joy a delicious brunch with the choice of a mimosa or Bloody Mary, and taste local wines. Tickets are $40 for presale until Wednesday, May 18 or $50 at the door and can be purchased by calling 813-245-2782. For more information on the event or about F.R.I.E.N.D.S., visit www.friendssupport. org.
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Page 16
Valrico Edition
Volume 19, Issue 5
HOW THE MILLAGE REFERENDUM COULD HELP OUR COMMUNITY By Superintendent Addison Davis Since arriving in March 2020 as the superintendent of Hillsborough County Public Schools, my team and I have worked diligently to overcome financial challenges that have plagued this district for close to a decade. I am proud to state by the end of this fiscal year, Hillsborough County Public Schools is slated to overcome a $150 million deficit, realizing a more stable financial stature that will translate into a brighter future for our organization and most importantly for our students. We emerged from this financial shortfall in part by making difficult staffing decisions at all levels that undoubtedly had an impact on children. Florida is ranked 43rd in per-pupil funding, leaving many school districts like ours without adequate funds to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers as we all contend with rising inflation that is leaving educational systems with severe staffing shortages. Our school board has taken my recommendation to place a millage referendum on the Tuesday, August 23 ballot that would provide an estimated $126 million per year over four years to our district if approved. If this measure passes, 75 percent of this money would go toward providing salary increases for teachers and support staff. We realize the crucial role our educators play in the lives of our children and families, and we must continue
to examine proactive solutions to illustrate their importance to our community and its collective success. If approved, the additional funds would also be utilized to expand art, music and PE for our youngest learners, offering equitable access across all grade bands. These funds would also provide us a unique chance to elevate our workforce development programs to develop a talent pipeline for students in medical, construction and logistics-related fields. You may be wondering how this would impact you if approved. Using a $300,000 property value as an example, the millage increase would translate to an additional $22.92 per month, or $275 per year, for a homeowner. Hillsborough is the only large school district in the state that has not passed a millage increase. Taxpayers in 21 Florida counties have approved this additional funding source to offer competitive teacher salaries while creating innovative experiences for learners. While we understand the referendum may be a heavy lift for some families in a time of such uncertainty, it has the potential to make an enormous difference in the lives of our teachers, staff, students and families. I encourage community members to vote on August 23. We will work together to proactively problem-solve in order to create a brighter future for our students and community as a whole.
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Valrico Edition
May 2022
Page 17
DAWN MYERS OF MYERS LAW HAS THE EXPERIENCE NEEDED TO ASSIST YOU
VALRICO FISHHAWK CHAMBER AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS TO SENIORS
By Kathy L. Collins Attorney Dawn MyAs such, as a former ers of Myers Law is prosecutor, she knows celebrating five years in exactly what law enprivate practice. Myers, forcement is doing to a lifelong resident of build a case against a Brandon, has vast expedefendant and exactly rience in both criminal what the prosecutor and civil law. She will is going to do to try provide the personaland convict the defenized attention that you dant. As an insurance deserve, whether you defense counsel, she find yourself in need knows precisely how to Attorney Dawn Myers (right), shown of a criminal defense build a personal injury attorney or representa- here with her assistant, Melissa Stinson case to get the maxi(left), has the experience to know how to mum settlement. tion in a civil action. Myers said, “When win a case, whether it is for a defendant Myers is passionin need of a criminal defense attorney or people are in some of ate about serving the a plaintiff who has been injured in an the darkest places of Greater Brandon comautomobile accident. their lives, I take pride munity. She is vice in helping to guide them president of Riverview on finding their way out Woman’s Club; a board of that difficult situamember of High 5 Inc., tion.” the Riverview Chamber Myers added, “My deof Commerce and Crime sire is to use the talents Stoppers of Tampa Bay; I have been given to help my community. I and she has been a member of Valrico Fisham not trying to milk every client of their Hawk Chamber of Commerce since 2021. last dime. My philosophy is that I want to In addition, Myers is a two-time Ironman use my knowledge and experiences to help finisher. Myers said, “I love the water and those in need while living a life that I do not spend all my free time on my boat, the Nauti have to retire from.” Girl. I love sharing the Alafia River, which I Myers spent 10 years working as an as- consider to be my neighborhood, with peosistant state attorney for the 13th Judicial ple who do not get to frequently experience Circuit in Hillsborough County. Myers tried the serenity of the water.” more than 120 jury trials from misdemeanMyers added, “I am a true believer that ors to murder, including handling sex crimes, citizens need to actively work to make the arson, domestic violence, drug trafficking world a better place. I support a number and gang crimes. of nonprofits and am partial to children in She spent four years as an attorney for need, particularly those in or the ones aging Smoak, Chistolini & Barnett handling insur- out of the system.” ance defense cases, including auto accidents For more information, please visit www. and other personal injury cases. myerslawpa.com.
By Kate Quesada
Four local high obtain his captain’s school students license and evenhave a head start tually captain a after graduation tugboat. thanks to a local Littlefield is a organization. The new student at Valrico FishHawk Lennard and has Chamber of Commade a big impact. merce (VFCC) reHis teachers said cently awarded he is an outgoing, The Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce scholarships to funny and hard(VFCC) recently awarded scholarships to four gradufour graduating ating seniors: Ashton Kitchiner and Madison Gioven- working student. seniors: Ashton co from Newsome High School and Connor Newell He is originally Kitchiner and Madfrom Alabama and and Levi Littlefield from Lennard High School. ison Giovenco from brings his patentNewsome High School as well as Connor ed mix of charm and work ethic to any acNewell and Levi Littlefield from Lennard tivity that he tackles. High School. Kitchiner is graduating in the top 1 perThe students received scholarships for cent of his graduating class at Newsome. He $750 at a college, university or vocation- volunteered over 275 hours with the Tampa al-technical college at the chamber’s April Sailing Squadron teaching young children meeting. and teens how to sail. He is a member of the According to Dr. Bob Lutz, owner of Mo- Newsome Lacrosse team, club lacrosse and tion ChiroTherapy and scholarship chair at is a lacrosse official. He was awarded the the VFCC, Newell and Littlefield are involved Top Male Scholar-Athlete Award in his sein Ring Power’s ThinkBIG program. nior year. He will be attending the University “They will alternate every eight weeks be- of Florida in the fall, and his goal is to pursue tween classroom instruction at South Geor- at least a master’s degree and own a large gia Technical College and a paid internship at business. a Ring Power branch, putting their schooling Giovenco volunteered over 88 hours at orinto practice with on-the-job training,” said ganizations including Girls With Confidence Dr. Lutz. “Upon successful completion of the and the Arlington Retirement Center during program, they will receive an associate de- high school at Newsome. She is a Newsome gree in applied technology.” Basketball and Track team member and Newell has been a member of the Len- played club lacrosse. She held a part-time nard Ag Department, National Honor Soci- job while serving in many various clubs and ety and FFA and has volunteered for over organizations. She will be attending Florida 40 hours with various organizations. He is State University in the fall, and her goal is an accomplished marine fiberglass repair to major in biological sciences and attend eitechnician and has been employed at Little ther veterinary school or med school. Harbor Marina since his freshman year. His For more information about VFCC, visit goal is to become a marine diesel technician, https://valricofishhawk.org.
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Page 18
Valrico Edition
PET THERAPISTS WELCOME AT ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-SOUTH By Kate Quesada St. Joseph’s ery week. “He is Hospital-South a totally differhas a very iment dog when he portant volunputs on his vest. teer, and he is He knows he is looking for some going to work.” friends to join Romeo’s duties him. include greetRomeo, a ing patients and 6-year-old, longstaff at the front haired German desk and visitshepherd, vol- Anya Shapiro, a 5-year-old from Riverview, got a pet ing patients in unteers with his therapy visit from Romeo, a 6-year-old, long-haired rooms who have German shepherd, and his handler, Bill Bergsma, also owner, Bill Bergrequested pet from Riverview. Romeo’s been a pet therapy dog at St. sma, every week therapy. Joseph’s Hospital-South for three years. at the hospital, “We often end bringing joy and up in the pedicomfort to patients atric wing because so and staff members many of the kids love alike, and according to him,” said Bergsma. the hospital’s volun“If they are scared, teer resource managthey usually stop cryer, Kim Wallace, there ing as soon as they see are opportunities for him and can pet him more canine philanduring treatments.” thropists. In order to parAccording to Walticipate in the prolace, the program begram, dogs must have gan at the hospital in passed one of the four 2015, and there are certification programs Bill and Romeo. Romeo has an idencurrently four dogs approved by BayCare. tification tag just like hospital team who regularly particThey must also be up members and other volunteers. ipate. to date on all shots Bergsma, who moved to Riverview and their owners have to provide the from Michigan three years ago, felt necessary paperwork every year. Romeo would be a good pet therapist “The experience is so rewarding for because of his personality and calm de- both of us,” said Bergsma. meanor. To learn more about the program and “I knew I needed to find him a job,” the requirements for volunteering, email he explained, adding that Romeo, who Wallace at kim.wallace@baycare.com. weighs more than 100 pounds, looks For more information on St. Joseph’s forward to coming to the hospital ev- Hospital South, visit www.baycare.org.
Volume 19, Issue 5
SUMMER READING PROGRAM RETURNS TO THE TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
By Tatiana Ortiz
Individuals of all ages can participate in the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library’s Summer Reading in-person and virtual events program, which begins on Wednesday, June 1 and runs through Sunday, July 31. With this year’s theme of ‘Oceans of Possibilities,’ participants will get an opportunity to learn about an array of ocean and water-related topics. All of the library’s branches will also include in-person featured weekly events held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Reading challenges will be available for kids, tweens, teens and adults. Prizes and giveaways will also be awarded for participation in the reading challenges and virtual events. Community partners such as ZooTampa, Tampa Bay History Center, Hillsborough County Public Schools, Tampa-Hillsborough County Children’s Library Foundation, Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation and the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County will be assisting with the funding. During the Summer Reading Program, people will gain knowledge about marine science, as a representative from ZooTampa will be presenting some virtual encounters with water-related animals. Also, the Tampa Bay History Center will have a couple of history classes virtually about the Hillsborough River and more.
Residents are invited to particiapte in the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library’s Summer Reading Program.
Christopher Sturgeon, learning experiences consultant at the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library, mentioned how individuals will benefit from summer reading. “Every summer and throughout the year, we like to focus and encourage lifelong reading habits,” Sturgeon said. Residents are welcomed to attend a virtual sneak peek event on Tuesday, May 17 at 6:30 p.m. This will consist of a preview of the special events, reading challenge and prizes that will occur. Sturgeon shared his thoughts about what he hopes participants of the Summer Reading Program grasp from it. “Just reinforcing the importance of reading with our challenges and knowing that the library is here to help them at each step of their lives, not just as kids but adults as well,” Sturgeon said. For more information about Summer Reading Oceans of Possibilities, visit hcplc.org/summer.
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May 2022
Valrico Edition
SUN CITY CENTER FUNERAL HOME WELCOMES NEW LOCATION LEADER By Sharon Still Sun City Center Fuable to transform the neral Home is pleased funeral into a one-ofto introduce its new a-kind celebration. location leader, Louis “We do not presDeSouza. Previously sure you into anyliving in Miami, Dething you do not Souza has been in need or want,” he the funeral business said. “The most refor 25 years and is warding part is the looking forward to gratitude that we getting out in the get from families we community as well have helped create as helping families a lifetime of memowith their end-of-life ries.” needs. Preplanning is At Sun City Center most important, he Funeral Home, the Louis DeSouza is a new face in town as he stresses. At Sun City staff is dedicated to takes over as location leader at Sun City Center Funeral Home, Funeral Home. caring for each family there is a preplanindividually for a truning advisor on the ly personalized expepremises available rience. The motto is by appointment. Preensuring funeral and planning offers peace cremation services of mind and lifts the as unique as your loved one. The only fu- financial burden off others. He encourneral home in Sun City Center, it offers ages people to make an appointment life celebrations, burial services, crema- to talk about options instead of leaving tion, veteran services, shipping and pre- family members fearing they are making planning. incorrect decisions. “Funerals have changed over the DeSouza came to the Sun City Center years,” commented DeSouza. It is not all because he thinks it will be the perfect black suits yet a celebration of life re- place to slow down life. He and his wife, flecting the personality of the deceased. Ramona, are looking forward to explorFrom services on the golf course to the ing, fishing and golfing after getting setgarden, Sun City Funeral Home will de- tled in. “We really like the community,” liver. he said. “Everyone is so nice and helpful ShareLife is a unique option offered everywhere you go.” at Sun City Center Funeral Home that Sun City Center Funeral Home is locattakes funerals to the next level of per- ed at 1851 Rickenbacker Dr. in Sun City sonalization. DeSouza described setting Center. For more details, call 813-634up themes such as some fishing gear as 9900 or visit www.suncitycenterfunerdecor for the avid fisherman. There are alhome.com. Phone calls are welcome 24 a variety of products and services avail- hours a day, 365 days a year.
Page 19
CHECK OUT THE 2022 COMMUNITY WATER WISE AWARDS PROGRAM
By Lynn Barber
Does your landAttaching a scape have what photo or two is it takes to win? helpful. On-site Enter today to landscape evalfind out! uations will be The 2022 Comscheduled and munity Water conducted in Wise Awards, July and August sponsored by with homeownTampa Bay Waers and business ter, were created owners. Winning to recognize indientries will reviduals and busi- The 2022 Community Water Wise Awards, sponsored ceive a beautinesses commit- by Tampa Bay Water, are open to applications this ful, handmade, ted to conserving mosaic stepmonth. our water reping-stone for sources and prohomeowners or a tecting the enviplaque option for ronment by using businesses. Florida-Friendly Today is a great Landscaping™ time to complete (FFL) principles. and submit your There are nine application. We FFL principles, hope to receive which include: your entry soon. right plant, right Thanks in adplace; water efvance for parficiently; fertilize ticipating. If you appropriately; have questions mulch; attract regarding the wildlife; manage yard pests responsibly; Tampa Bay Water Community Water recycle; reduce stormwater runoff; and Wise Award program, please contact me protect the waterfront. Many of these at 813-744-5519, ext. 54105 or email principles are used as part of the land- me at barberL@hcflgov.net. scape evaluation process for this awards For more information about the Floriprogram. da-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, asYou can view photographs and watch sistance with gardening and irrigation short videos of past winners at https:// system-related questions, contact the awards.tampabaywaterwise.org/. The UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County deadline for entries is Thursday, June at 813-744-5519 and visit our website 30. Complete your application now, at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/ which will take about five to 10 minutes, upcoming-events/ for upcoming workthen submit online at the link above. shops. CAC1820162
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Page 20
Valrico Edition
Volume 19, Issue 5
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Valrico
May 2022, Vol. 19, Iss. 5
MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL EXHIBIT APRIL 29-JUNE 29 MORE INFORMATION ON PAGE 25
Father’s Day Engraving Event At AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor Join Ajay Jambhekar, owner of AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor, for his Father’s Day engraving event featuring a wide selection of spirits to have engraved, including a variety of Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve Bourbons. These make for perfect personalized gifts for dad and are also perfect for thank-you presents or a ‘just because.’ The engraving event will take place at AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor, located at 3443 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, on Saturday, June 11 from 6-9 p.m. Preorders are highly encouraged, and there are no quantity restrictions. Call AJ’s at 813-654-6488 to make your preorder selection. Superior Residences Of Brandon Offers Memory Care Services Superior Residences of Brandon offers the finest senior living experience for those needing memory care services. It has an experienced and caring team who have the professional skills to administer complex treatment plans and the sensitivity to make residents feel at home. They make residents feel better, function more
Mission BBQ is located at 1504 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. More information can be found at www.misMission BBQ Celebrates Armed Forces sion-bbq.com or by calling 813-830-9618. Week Mission BBQ is well known for supporting Huntington Learning Center Under our military and veterans. Armed Forces Day New Management this year will take place on Saturday, May Huntington Learning Center Brandon has 21 and Mission BBQ is celebrating with its been a part of the local Brandon communiown Armed Forces Week. Each branch of ty for over 28 years and is now under new the military will be celebrated on its own day management. With a recent ribbon-cutting with a free sandwich for celebration, Huntington Learnactive duty and veterans ing Center Brandon is excited to of that branch followed move forward with a new drive by a free sandwich for all and goals to build strong conactive duty and veterans nections and involvement in the on Saturday. Their days community while strengthenare: Army on Monday, ing the academic needs of area May 16, Marine Corps on students. Using skilled teachers Tuesday, May 17, Navy on to tutor students in multiple arWednesday, May 18, Air eas of education, including test Force and Space Force prep, Huntington Learning can help raise on Thursday, May 19, Coast Guard on Friday, test scores and fill in the gaps for students May 20 and everyone on Saturday, May 21.
independently and Alley Cat Pest Control recently celebrated its 15th anniversary with a ribbon-cutting from the Greater Riverview Chamber of manage chronic Commerce. conditions. Superior Residences of Brandon is located at 1819 Providence Ridge Blvd. in Brandon. Additional information can be found on its website at www.superiorbrandon.com or by calling 813657-8587.
Alley Cat Pest Control Celebrates 15Year Anniversary Alley Cat Pest Control recently celebrated its 15th anniversary with a ribbon-cutting from the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce. It is a full-service company specializing in integrated pest management for the prevention of unwanted pests in your home or business. Family-owned and operated, and named after the beloved family cat, Alley Cat Pest Control proudly serves the local community. To learn more about Alley Cat Pest Control, visit www.alleycatpestcontrol.com or call 813-671-3838.
Page 22
Valrico Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... ing and drinking in more than 5,000 square feet. The boutique is full of unique items that Owners Melanie Bentley-Montanaro and Shaunessy Dobish take time cultivating, and there is truly something for everyone. It also offers a design services and catalog shopping if you do not find just the right piece in the shop. You can either start or finish your visit at the restaurant, where your experience will be just as unique as the experience in the boutique. It ofwho need a little extra fers gourmet sandwiches, flatbreads, assistance or help avoid harvest salads, soups, cheese and the summer slide. A charcuterie, wine, beer and more. The summer at Huntington menu is full of exceptional food that leads to a better school you cannot find anywhere else, and when year, so make this time count. Offering both you pair it with wine brought in from the in-person and online tutoring, Huntington students will gain more of a comprehensive academic understanding with provided skill sets that are tailored to individual students. Huntington Learning Center Brandon is located at 1590 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For more information and up-to-date summer Pacific Northwest, it is quite the experience. For more information, visit www.thewhiteohours, call 813-681-1500. akcottage.com or call the boutique at 813650-0054 and the bistro at 813-308-9994. StretchLab Opens In Brandon StretchLab is a unique wellness concept, offering customized assisted stretch sessions. No two bodies are the same, and no two stretches at StretchLab are the same. One-on-one stretching is about identifying the tightness and imbalances in your body and customizing a stretch routine that is just for you. There are a lot of dif- Sweetwater Kayaks Opens New Locaferent benefits from stretching, and some tion At Bull Frog Creek Sweetwater Kayaks has had a location in include: increased flexibility and range of St. Petersburg for the last 23 years and is motion, improved posture, reduced stress very excited to now be servicing the eastand improved sports performance. Stretchern side of the bay. Its new location is at the Lab is located at 11235 Causeway Blvd. in General Store & Market at 11307 U.S. Hwy. Brandon. More information can be found at 41 S. in Gibsonton, giving access to Bullfrog www.stretchlab.com/location/brandon or Creek. It is currently open Friday through by calling 813-734-8687. You can also follow Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., for kayak, stand-up it on Facebook @stretchlabbrandon. paddleboard and canoe rentals as well as inThe White Oak Cottage Opens New Bis- struction, sales and repairs. For more information, visit its website at www.sweetwatro White Oak Cottage Boutique is located at terkayaks.com, call 727-570-4844 or follow 10530 S. County Rd. 39 in Lithia. It is a des- it on Facebook @paddleswk or Instagram tination where you can enjoy shopping, din- @sweetwater.kayaks.
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Volume 19, Issue 5
SIXTH ANNUAL HALLE GRACE TOY DRIVE WILL DONATE TOYS TO LOCAL HOSPITALS
By Lily Belcher
Jillian. “It would just brighten her day no matter what her treatments were or if she was going to surgery.” Last year, the toy drive collected over 2,100 toys and donated to five locations, and the foundation hopes to surpass that number this year. The drive donated 300 toys in its inaugural year in 2016 and has grown exponentially since. The Halle Grace Foundation has worked with other schools and organizations to offer service hours to Halle Grace Heilman’s sister, Neeley, bringing toys from the toy drive to young children in the hospital.
The Halle Grace Foundation is hosting its sixth annual Halle Grace Foundation Toy Drive until May 30 to celebrate Halle Grace Heilman’s 22nd birthday. Halle passed away in July of 2015 after suffering from a rare chromosome deletion, but, following her death, her family established a foundation in her name to keep her memory alive and celebrate her life. “It makes her birthday something we still celebrate every year. We know that other kids are getting presents on her birthday, so that makes us happy,” said Jillian Heilman, mother of Halle and founder of the nonprofit organization. The toy drive is its way of giving back to their community and supporting young children like Halle who are in the hospital. The toys suited for patients up to 18 years old will be donated on Halle’s birthday on Thursday, June 2 to Tampa General Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital and other hospitals in the area. “One of the things that brought her a ton of joy, especially when she was a little kid, was when the toy cart came by, and it would come by every day of the week, and there would be a new toy she could pick out,” said
Each year, toys are donated to local hospitals supporting pediatric patients.
student volunteers that help collect toys and advertise the collection. Halle battled for 15 years against the illness, taking joy in proving the doctors who limited her wrong. She learned to dance, developed a love for fine cuisine despite being on a feeding tube for years and even ran a 5K at 7 years old. To donate, drop toys off at 2928 Chelsea Woods Dr. in Valrico, Melissa Snively’s State Farm office in Lithia, the Florida Hawks FC soccer fields in the FishHawk Sports Complex or Bloomingdale High School. To donate on Venmo or for information, contact jillianheilman@gmail.com. For information on Halle’s story, visit thehallegracefoundation.org.
May 2022
Valrico Edition
ALUMNI REFLECT AS THUNDER BAY VOLLEYBALL GETS SET FOR 10-YEAR MILESTONE
By Linda Chion
Back on the court and team-building are Thunder Bay experiences. Girls Club alumni “One of the best Brianna Chin and things I did to preTerra Brooks, gradpare me for playuates of Newsome ing college volleyand Strawberry ball was coming to Crest High Schools, Thunder Bay,” said respectively, who Chin, an Oglethoshared with today’s rpe University players the value of graduate. “When a club set to celeI went to college, brate a milestone there wasn’t a anniversary. coach that could Under the banbreak me down, Photo courtesy of Linda Chion work me harder, ner of the nonprofit Thunder Bay Volley- Thunder Bay Girls Club alumni Brianna Chin than what I found (left) and Terra Brooks (right) back in the ball Academy, the here. When your gym with their former volleyball coach, Javier girls club is set to parents take you Fortuno. enter its 10th seahere and sacrifice son in the fall, one for you to be here, of a field of acaddon’t take that for emy offerings for granted.” players ages 6-18, Now a Thunder including private Bay coach herself, lessons; summer camps and intensives; “It’s nice being a coach next to your old upcoming beach, boys, mini club and Cir- coaches,” said Brooks, an Alabama A&M cuit Club programs; and Saturday Thunder University graduate. “It’s like you never Sprouts and Thunder Bay Junior Club. stop learning.” To the players, she addThunder Bay was co-founded by Walter ed, “We can’t teach you to want to play Perkins III, who also founded the Brandon the game, to put effort into the game. Bolts basketball program, now in its 22nd You guys should want to do that for each year as the Bay Area/Brandon Bolts. Ron- other. So, think about that while you’re in nie Shamberger also co-founded Thunder practice, because this is where it starts.” Bay. Set to expand further in Southeastern At Immanuel Lutheran School’s gymna- Hillsborough County, Thunder Bay currentsium off John Moore Rd. in Brandon, Chin ly uses gym space at Immanuel Lutheran, and Brooks discussed with junior club New Hope United Methodist Church and players what is needed to take it to the High 5 Inc. For more information, visit next level, as the alumni learned through www.TBVAClub.com, email TBVAClub@ their ‘Thunder Bay Way’ skills-building gmail.com or call 813-331-5388.
Page 23
NEW FLORIDA TRADE ACADEMY JOINS THE COMMUNITY By Libby Hopkins Bernadette in the communiand Chris Pello ty. Chris tapped are Riverview Chuck Burgess, residents and the a nonprofit CEO founders of Livwith many local ingstone Acadecontacts, and my. Since LivingJeffrey Stone, a stone Academy successful busihas been a huge nessman and success for famentrepreneur, as ilies with special co-founders. Toneeds children, gether, they will the Pellos want- Florida Trade Academy has begun registration for be responsible for its fall semester. ed to branch out the daily operaand offer options of Florida tions to young Trade Acadadults who emy. “What may not pick makes FTA difcollege as a ferent is first career path. and foremost, “We wanted we are localto create Florly owned and ida Trade Academy (FTA) because we operated,” Chris said. “We are a nonprofrecognized the tremendous need in our it, and we have assembled a team with community for a career path for young over 100 combined years in education, adults, especially for those that may not nonprofit and business experience. Due want to attend college or a university,” to our sponsor, Associated Builders and Bernadette said. “Because we have been Contractors, we have access to over 450 involved in education for 30 years, it was member companies that will be looking a natural progression for us to launch to employ our students. We have a treFTA.” mendous amount of employment opporChris, an educator, community leader tunities for our students.” and school operations specialist, created Classes begin in September. FTA. For more than 35 years, he has been “Our hopes for FTA are that we can involved in education as a high school educate, train and place students in coach, athletic director, teacher and high-paying trade careers with little to principal. Over the last 20 years, Chris no student debt,” said Chris. “We also has also successfully founded and oper- plan to expand beyond the Tampa Bay ated four private schools in Hillsborough region and hope to provide these options County, now serving over 400 students in to students throughout the state of Florgrades K-12 with 85 employees. He knew ida.” that if FTA was going to be successful, To learn more, visit www.floridahe needed to recruit some major players tradeacademy.org.
Page 24
Valrico Edition
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CENTER PLACE: A BEAUTIFUL SUMMER
HILLSBOROUGH CAMBRIDGE SCHOOLS SET TO EXPAND WITH SCHOOL BOARD VOTE By Linda Chion H i l l s b o ro u g h and Riverview County School High Schools Board memand at Shields bers were set Middle School in to approve at Ruskin, as well their April 19 as at East Bay meeting a letHigh School in ter of approval Gibsonton, Spowith Cambridge to High School Assessment Inin Riverview, ternational EdWharton and ucation (CAIE) Freedom High to expand Photo courtesy of Linda Chion. Schools in New Sumner High School has been a Cambridge AICE CAIE programs Tampa and school since its inception. The program is set to excountywide. Blake, Chamber“Since the fall pand to more Hillsborough County Public Schools. lain, Jefferson, of 2020, Sumner High School has been King, Leto and Middleton High Schools the only Cambridge AICE high school in Tampa. program in Hillsborough County Public Schools now with Cambridge proSchools,” according to a school district grams are Rodgers Middle Magnet report prepared for school board con- School in Riverview, Franklin Boys and sideration. “The Cambridge expansion Franklin Girls Preparatory Academy will begin in the fall of 2022 with the Middle Schools in Tampa and Sumner addition of 13 high schools and one ad- High School at the border of Balm and ditional middle school. This will allow Riverview. additional students to take advantage of According to school officials, Sumner Cambridge Lower Secondary, Pre-AICE High administered 977 AICE exams in and AICE courses.” spring 2021. Roughly three out of four The Cambridge Advanced Internation- exam takers received a score that qualal Certificate of Education (AICE) was ifies them for potential college credit. first awarded in 1997 and has since be- This school year, Sumner reportedly come popular with a range of schools in has 1,187 students enrolled in at least different parts of the world. It encom- one AICE course, with school officials passes the ‘gold standard’ Cambridge expected to administer 2,474 examinaInternational AS and A Level qualifi- tions this spring. Sumner offers 17 AICE cations and offers students the oppor- and six Pre-AICE courses with 72 and tunity to tailor their studies to their 94 sections, respectively. individual interests, abilities and future For more about the AICE program, plans within an international curriculum visit Cambridge Assessment Internaframework. tional Education at www.cambridgeinSchool board members were set to ap- ternational.org, or visit www.hillsborprove for the 2022-23 school year Cam- oughcountyschools.org and search for bridge programs at Brandon, Plant City ‘Cambridge schools.’
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By Libby Hopkins
Center Place and 25 and June Fine Arts & Civ2 and 8. This proic Association gram takes place has two fun art on Wednesdays camps happenfrom 10:30 a.m.ing this summer, 12 p.m. Once these Jump Start to classes are over, Art with Doreen we will pause this Donovan and program for the Outside the Lines summer and then Summer Art bring it back in the Camp with Alefall.” Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is jandro Algarin. Center Place is currently looking for sponsors for its two summer “These camps held near and dear art camps. are going to be to many Brana blast for childon residents dren from our because it has c o m m u n i t y, ” held their wedsaid Center Place’s executive director, dings, birthdays, anniversaries and many Libby Hopkins. “Our Jump Start to Art other events at Center Place. “When I Summer Camp is geared toward children first took over as executive director, I ages 6-10 who want to learn about art heard many stories of how families held and various art forms. Outside the Lines their special events at Center Place,” Summer Art Camp will consist of begin- Hopkins said. “Since the community is ning cartooning and street art for chil- still getting back on its feet from the dren ages 6-10 and then there will be a recent COVID-19 pandemic, we felt we camp for tweens and teens.” should lower the rental prices at Center Hopkins and her team at Center Place Place and make the center more available are looking to the Brandon community to the community.” for camp sponsors. “We are looking for This rent reduction seems to be worklocal businesses who would like to help ing, as Center Place is starting to book sponsor the art supplies and building ma- more events for the upcoming spring and terials for street art class,” Hopkins said. summer months. “We would like to build moveable walls To learn more about the upcoming that can be taken outside of Center Place summer art camps at Center Place or to so the students taking the street art class become a sponsor, contact Hopkins at can spray-paint on them.” 813-685-8888. Center Place has added more dates To book Center Place for an upcoming for its free Veterans Art Program. “This event and to view its new rental rates, wonderful and free art program has been visit www.centerplacebrandon.com. Cengenerously funded by Mosaic,” Hopkins ter Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is said. “We have added a few more dates located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B infor the program, and they are May 18 side the Brandon Regional Library.
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Valrico Edition
May 2022
MICHELANGELO’S SISTINE CHAPEL: THE EXHIBITION COMES TO TAMPA
Staff Report
ed the Sistine Chapel in Rome, there were long lines, and we were rushed through. This exhibit in Tampa allows everyone an opportunity to see the amazing art at their pace and up close, at an affordable price, and enjoy an inspiring and unforgettable experience.” Guests may enhance The internationally acclaimed Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The their experience by Exhibition opens on Friday, April 29 in Tampa. adding an audio guide, with narrative accomThe internationally acclaimed Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition paniment available in multiple languages, opened on April 29 in Tampa. The exhibi- including Spanish, French, Chinese, Koretion is a presentation of museum-quality, an and German. “We are delighted to bring this must-see near-life-size reproductions of one of the interactive art exhibit to the WestShore world’s greatest artistic achievements. “This exhibition gives visitors a chance Plaza,” said Larry Scollo, general manager to engage with Rome’s most iconic trea- of WestShore Plaza. “This exhibit will prosures in ways that were never possible,” vide a unique opportunity for visitors of said Martin Biallas, CEO of Los Ange- all ages to engage and interact with beaules-based SEE© Global Entertainment tiful art while visiting our space.” “We have had sold-out openings in San and producer of the exhibit. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Diego, Cleveland, Dayton, Philadelphia, Exhibition is a collection of the artist’s Washington D.C. and Dallas in recent renowned ceiling frescoes from the Vat- months, and it is our privilege to bring one ican’s Sistine Chapel, reproduced in a for- of Rome’s most iconic artworks to Tammat that allows viewers to get face to pa,” said Biallas. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exface with the masterpieces. Through 34 artfully displayed reproductions, this in- hibition runs from Wednesday through novative presentation includes world-re- Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., from April 29 nowned pieces like The Creation of Adam to Sunday, June 26 at WestShore Plaza. and The Last Judgement, bringing them Tickets start at $20.20 per adult and $14 per child. Discounts for seniors, students, just a few feet away from the audience. “This exhibition is like a sanctuary, military and family bundles are available. you’re transported into a completely dif- Tickets are on sale now at www.chapelferent world,” said Biallas. “When I visit- sistine.com.
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Page 25
MARY & MARTHA HOUSE CELEBRATES 40 YEARS WITH GALA
By Kate Quesada
On Friday, June beautiful interpretive 10, Mary & Martha dance routine,” said House is celebrating Chini. 40 years of posiIn addition, for the tively impacting the first time, the event lives of women and will include the prechildren with a gala sentation of three fundraising event. awards. The nonprofit, “The Mary & Martax-exempt corporatha House Thrive tion was founded in Award will be given 1982 and has been to a past client that helping Hillsborough Juanita Lolita will be the emcee at Mary has used their second County women and & Martha House’s 40th anniversary gala chance at indepenchildren escape dodence to the fullest,” in June. mestic violence said Chini. “Mary & and homelessMartha House Philness ever since. anthropic Award According to will be given to a Executive Dibusiness or individrector Bill Chiual who has done so ni, the event, much to give back with its ‘Time to our organization. to Bloom’ theme, will be extra special Lastly, and my personal favorite award, this year. is the Laurie Herring Legacy Award. “We feel that both our clients and our This award will be given to a communiorganization are ready to do bigger and ty member who is making the world a better things,” said Chini. better place, because that’s what Laurie The event will begin with an open bar did.” cocktail hour, but just before dinner, ChiAfter the program, Chini explained ni has a meaningful celebration planned. that the dance floor will open and mu“We are going to have a butterfly re- sic will be presented by a DJ. There will lease outside in memory of Laurie Her- also be a silent auction with items to bid ring,” he explained. on ranging from fun activities to jewelry Herring, the organization’s former ex- and sports memorabilia. ecutive director, passed away in 2021. The event will take place at The ReThe emcee for the event will be Juan- gent, which is located at 6437 Watson ita Lolita, who will also be performing a Rd. in Riverview. comedy bit. Sponsorship opportunities, which “Our dancers are returning this year— start at $500, are still available. For Darlene and Takiyah Johnson, a mother more information or to purchase tickets, and daughter who stayed at our shelter visit www.marymarthahouse.org or call a year or so ago—to perform another 813-645-7874.
Page 26
Valrico Edition
Volume 19, Issue 5
OLIVER ESTATES & SPECIALLY FIT FARM OPENS TO SERVE DISABLED COMMUNITY
By Nick Nahas
Specially Fit CEO could benefit from it. He Mark Oliver has opened thought about the posia new venue, Oliver tive impact and benefits Estates & Specially Fit the animals would have Farm, which provides on the special needs clianimal therapy for ents he serves, as well individuals with disas the other activities abilities, prevocational that could be done at training, job opportuthe farm, such as dancnities, education, goat es and fundraisers for yoga, fitness classes other nonprofits. and an adult day trainThe barn will also ing program with daily be used as an affordactivities for individuable event space for als with developmental weddings, nonprofit Oliver Estates & Specially Fit Farm disabilities. The farm is provides animal therapy for individuals fundraisers and othlocated on 7 acres of with disabilities, prevocational training, er events. Oliver said land at 2112 Martin Rd. job opportunities, education, goat yoga, the purpose of hosting fitness classes and an adult day training events is to provide indiin Dover. program with daily activities for individOliver started the viduals who have a disuals with developmental disabilities. Specially Fit Foundaability an opportunity to tion, a nonprofit organization that serves in- make money by taking care of the farm and dividuals with developmental disabilities by helping during the events. His clients are in providing fitness classes, Special Olympic op- charge of setting up tables, directing parking portunities and group home access. Last year, and providing sanitation services. Oliver pointhe also created a new mobile primary health ed out that there is a shortage of employment care practice called Olive Health that provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities. mobile services like telehealth, primary care, According to Oliver, part of the proceeds lab work, medication management, medica- of any event hosted at the barn will go to the tion refills, IV therapy and medication deliv- farm for his special needs individuals and anery. The practice accepts Medicaid, Medicare other part of the proceeds will be put aside as well as other insurances, making it possible to help other nonprofits that can’t afford a for the disabled community to receive quality venue. care that is affordable. The farm’s first priority is to be available for Over 200 people gathered for the grand the disabled community, but it will have set opening of Oliver Estates & Specially Fit Farm hours for the general public as well. The land on Autism Awareness Day, including mem- currently has llamas, goats, mini pigs and mini bers of the Greater Riverview Chamber of donkeys. Oliver plans on adding more farm anCommerce. The chamber gave a proclama- imals and is in the process of building a comtion, granting April 2 as Specially Fit Day. munity garden as well. Oliver said that when he came across this For more on the farm, email speciallyfitproperty by chance, the first thing that came foundation@gmail.com or visit the website at to mind was the number of individuals who www.speciallyfitfoundation.com.
SENIOR HELPERS OFFERS HIGH-QUALITY IN-HOME CARE By Kathy L. Collins If you are in need Senior Helpers will of in-home senior offer a sponsored care, look no furwebinar called Dether than Senior mentia Care: How to Helpers (Riverview). Effectively Respond Senior Helpers ofto Challenging Statefers tailored home ments. The webinar care services which Senior Helpers Riverview offers high-quality is led by Teepa Snow, range from daily as- in-home senior care at an affordable price. It a renowned authority offers tailored home care services, including sistance to in depth on aging and demenspecialized care for companion care for seniors who need daily as- tia. The webinar will ailments such as sistance and in-depth specialized care for those be held on WednesAlzheimer’s, demen- with chronic conditions, such as Alzheimer’s day, June 22 from and dementia. tia, Parkinson’s and 2-3 p.m. other chronic diseases. Senior Helpers Riverview has been Senior Helpers Riverview is owned and awarded Great Place to Work for the last operated by senior care specialist Scott three years. In addition, it is accredited by Fox. According to Fox, who has owned Se- The Joint Commission. nior Helpers for 14 years, “Senior Helpers Fox brings a lifetime of experience to offers services from a variety of profes- owning and operating Senior Helpers. He sionals including companions, home health has worked in the health care industry. In aides and certified nurse assistants. We addition, he explained, “My grandfather provide everything from sitting with your died from the stress of taking care of my loved one to bathing, dressing and 24-hour grandmother with brain cancer. My family care.” became caregivers and hired a company like Fox employed 150 area residents. Fox Senior Helpers with caregivers to help. My said, “Senior Helpers is an industry lead- other grandmother suffered from demener for in-home care or whatever you call tia/Alzheimer’s. My mission is to change the home. We offer award-winning specialty misinformation and help people understand programs in dementia/Alzheimer’s called it is all about the approach for proper care.” Senior Gems™. We offer senior helpers free The primary goal of Senior Helpers Rivertools and education for caregivers upon re- view is to help provide a high quality of life quest. We also have a data-driven tool pro- for its clients and their families by deliverfiles that help people age in place with 20 ing customized, dependable and affordable years of experience of data-driven results.” care. Senior Helpers is always looking to hire For more information, please visit www. good people. It will train individuals to get seniorhelpers.com/fl/riverview or call 813into the industry. 677-1400.
May 2022
Valrico Edition
Page 27
MEALS ON WHEELS OF TAMPA NOW SERVING DIABETIC AND RENAL MENUS
Staff Report
THE FOREVER GAME Contributed by River Hills Country Club
Meals on Wheels is now providing diabetic and renal menus to homebound recipients, in addition to the heart-healthy diet.
Meals On Wheels of Tampa (MOW Tampa) is now providing diabetic and renal menus to homebound recipients in addition to the heart-healthy diet. The meals are freshly prepared daily at the MOW Tampa facility and delivered to the homes of seniors and homebound neighbors in the Greater Tampa area. All menus have been evaluated by a registered dietician to ensure nutritional integrity. Steve King, MOW Tampa executive director, is very excited about the new menus. “Our executive chef has really created some great recipes, seasoning them with fresh ingredients, such as garlic and herbs, to enhance flavor while minimizing sodium,” said King. “Our plan is to rotate all the menus every 4-5 months to keep things seasonal.” The new diabetic menu is carbohydrate monitored. The renal menu has lower sodium, potassium and phosphorus levels and offers a quality source of protein with each meal. All the meals are offered in regular, chopped or pureed form to meet the changing needs of Tampa’s homebound and senior neighbors. When recipients were recently surveyed, the diabetic and renal menus were the most requested additions to the current
heart-healthy meals. MOW Tampa’s home-delivered meal program provides hot, nutritious meals to seniors (ages 62 and over) as well as disabled and homebound individuals who have difficulty shopping for food or preparing meals. Meals provide recipients with improved diet, health and wellbeing. A volunteer driver delivers a hot meal Monday to Friday. Frozen meals for the weekend are delivered on Friday. For many of the neighbors served, a visit from a volunteer is the only personal contact they will have that day. This allows for a ‘safety’ check in, which brings comfort and security for them and for their families. MOW Tampa serves from the county lines to the north and west, I-75 to the east, including Riverview and Gibsonton. MOW Tampa is completely privately funded and is not a government agency. The cost of meal service is determined based on the individual’s circumstances. The full cost of a meal is $5.50. No one is turned away due to financial reasons. If interested in receiving meals or to learn more about MOW Tampa, please call the office at 813-238-8410 or visit www. mowtampa.org.
Why is golf such a success are infinitely great game for kids to higher. learn? Will they gain “Golf is deceptively fame and fortune by simple and endlessly smacking a little white complicated; it satisfies ball around? Or better, the soul and frustrates will they learn lessons the intellect. It is at the that can be applied same time rewarding to their personal and and maddening—and it professional lives and is without a doubt the careers in the future? greatest game mankind Hand a kid a golf club has ever invented,” said and see what happens. Arnold Palmer, aka The It is understandably King. River Hills Country Club is located at an opinion in the golf Golf offers outdoor 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. industry and by players physical activity, low around the world that golf is the game risk of injuries, suitability to abilities, that most closely resembles life. Both new friendships, bonding and confidence present “the thrill of victory and the agony building. Characteristics of honesty, ethof defeat,” (Jim McKay, ABC Sports), and ics, integrity, etiquette, manners, respect, it is one of the very few sports that can be discipline, perseverance, respect, honplayed for a lifetime. These factors make or, sportsmanship and responsibility are golf a great game for kids and adults to those derived in golf for the cornerstones learn. of a successful life. For parents of junior The chances of getting struck by light- golfers, it also opens the door for more ning may be lower than a kid gaining a friends as kids bond. spot on the television walking up the last Many clubs and facilities offer junior hole as the winner of a global event. It programming. We are lucky here at Rivmay even be harder to become one of the er Hills Country Club to have member and best in golf than in football, baseball and guest children attend numerous weekly basketball. Golf is a game where literally clinics, camps and leagues throughout the all can compete for a lifetime. Regardless entire year. Those ages 4 and up can parof ability, the chances a kid that learns the ticipate in fun activities while they learn. game early may transcend the lessons of Hook a kid on golf. Set them up for a life. the game into characteristics needed for You will be glad you did.
Page 28
Valrico Edition
Volume 19, Issue 5
PLANT CITY HIRES FORMER TAMPA BAY BUC MICHAEL CLAYTON AS HEAD FOOTBALL COACH Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Michael Clayton has a storied career as a football player, winning a national championship with Louisiana State University in 2003 and a Super Bowl with the New York Giants in 2012. He was selected 15th overall in the first round of the 2004 NFL draft by the Bucs and played six seasons with the team. Clayton now looks to add to his crowded mantle, this time as the head football coach of the Plant City Raiders. Plant City Athletic Director Randall Humphrey said that the addition to the program has created a buzz within the school and the community. “His accomplishments on the field really spoke for themselves,” said Humphrey. “His information and knowledge of football was clear, but when you really heard him speak to the heart of the student-athletes, the way he was able to speak directly to them really showed them instantaneously that he cared about them and that he would put together a program and pour all of his energy and effort into making sure they are successful in life.” Clayton, who always wanted to become a head coach, was introduced as the Plant City head man on April 1 in front of a gym packed with Raiders students and fans. He has a passion to pass on what he’s learned to a younger generation of football players. “Everything kind of aligned for me personally,” said Clayton. “I’m very lucky and very blessed to have the opportunity, and here we stand today, me being the head coach of Plant City High School.”
The Thonotosaslearned from football, sa resident said that in terms of life skills.” he’s had good and bad Clayton has a vestcoaches, takes knowled interested and a edge from the good standard of excellence coaches and doesn’t try when it comes to his to reinvent the wheel. players doing well acHe cited his former ademically. He encourcoach, Nick Saban, as ages them to sit at the a strong influence and front of the classroom template on his teachand participate fully ing style and how he in class. Every teacher wants to run his own at the school has his program. Clayton said cell phone number so his players not only that he can keep tabs benefit by learning Defensive coordinator Terrence Hicks (left on how his students to right), former Tampa Bay Buccaneers proper football techare doing. He wants receiver Michael Clayton and offensive nique from the for- coordinator Kenny Kelly were introduced at them to represent the mer pro, but he also football program well a school pep rally on April 1. teaches them valuable and become leaders tools from the game that translate into life amongst their peers in the classroom as well. skills they can take with them for the rest of “The goal is to make academics a priority their lives to become productive members of to make sure that if they desire to play the society. He wants to develop them as foot- game of football, that they go through the ball players and, more importantly, as good, full process of being great in every aspect of well-rounded young men. life, including academics and how to carry “I know how to motivate guys, being that themselves outside of football,” said Clayton. every player that puts on pads, you don’t pay “All of those things are going to help us build the price for no reason, you play the game a foundation.” to be the best at it, to win a championship,” The head coach has built a great coachsaid Clayton. “I’ve won a championship at the ing staff to help him spread his message. college level; I know what it takes to be the Former Wharton defensive coordinator Terbest in the world in college. I won a Super rence Hicks brings a lot of experience and Bowl in the pros; I know what it takes to be a leadership, taking charge of the defense. Ofchampion in the pros. I also know the lessons fensive coordinator Kenny Kelly, who played that I’ve lived in the past 20 years that I’ve quarterback at the University of Miami and
professional baseball, also coached in the college ranks as an offensive assistant at Florida International University. Plant City High School alumnus John Broome, who is a fixture within the Pop Warner community in the city, will be the junior varsity head coach. Clayton thinks that these hires will keep the top players from the area at the school and build a strong tradition of winning. Clayton hopes to make the city proud and give fans of the team something to cheer about and have pride in. He knows that his program can bring a different energy to Plant City. A new artificial turf field is in the process of being added to the football facility, and the team will break out new uniforms as well. He relishes the opportunity for his team to compete against the tough gauntlet of Hillsborough County. “We have to learn how to play football the right way,” said Clayton. “That’s goal number one, to set a standard of excellence in everything we do to finish hard for four quarters every time we get a chance to play. Obviously, the standard is set high to win every game that we play and to win a championship. Regardless of how young our players are, regardless of how inexperienced they are, the goal is to come together as a team and to win a championship, and I will hold them to that standard every single day.” Clayton will be hosting a camp in the near future with other former NFL players to teach football fundamentals. For updates about the camp, follow Clayton on Twitter @ MCListenUp.
Valrico Edition
May 2022
BLOOMINGDALE GIRLS BASKETBALL PLAYER EARNS DOTTIE MCGAHIGAN AWARD, COMMITS TO ST. THOMAS AQUINAS COLLEGE
By Nick Nahas
JoJo Raposo recently received the Dottie McGahigan award, given annually to the top senior girls basketball player in Hillsborough County. Photo courtesy of Bloomingdale Girls Basketball Program.
It has been a whirlwind couple of months for Bloomingdale High School girls basketball player Joline ‘JoJo’ Raposo. She led the Lady Bulls to their first-ever regional title in February after being named player of the year in the Western Conference Federal Division First Team a few weeks before. She also competed in the Hillsborough County East/West All-Star Game and took home MVP honors for the east squad. She recently received the Dottie McGahigan award, given annually to the top senior girls basketball player in Hillsborough County. Three days later, she announced that she committed to play basketball for St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC) in New York. “When I found out that I was player of the year, I was completely baffled,” said Raposo. “I never thought my name would ever get brought up in a conversation on that topic. But I was also happy because I feel like with everything that I’ve done these past four years, I earned it. But honestly, it wasn’t just me who did that alone, my teammates also played a big role in that accomplishment.” Raposo led her team with 10.6 points per game and 4.2 steals per game, adding three rebounds per game and 86 total assists on the season. Head Coach Joel Bower said that she not only was invaluable on the court, but she set a good example for her younger teammates off the court as well. “JoJo led our team by being one of our hardest working players and bringing an enthusiasm to the gym every day,” said Bower. “She backed that up by being our most consistent performer on the court. We were able to count on her production night in and night out.” Raposo has built a strong rapport with her teammates, who appreciate her talent
on the court and her friendship off the court. “I have been teammates with JoJo for about a year and loved every moment of it,” said junior forward Kyrstin Wolff. “She has been there for not only me, but the whole team every day. She’s made me a better player and everyone around her better as well. What I am going to miss most is her energy. She is always positive and bringing everyone up. I loved being on the same team with her, and even more that I can call her my sister on and off the court.” The senior guard will take her talents to St. Thomas Aquinas College in New York in the fall. “The standout to me for St. Thomas Aquinas was the coach. He is so driven for me to be on the team, and he always puts his girls first,” said Raposo. “That was a huge thing for me, because caring for your players is the main key for successful seasons. The thing I look forward to the most for college basketball are the workouts and also the games. Now that I have to get used to a shot clock, I feel like it will be an interesting change in my game.” Bower will miss coaching the superstar guard, who led the Lady Bulls to their first final four in Bloomingdale’s history. “I will miss her positivity and her competitiveness,” he said. “I will miss her walking into the gym with a smile on her face but then when it was time to work, she flipped that switch and was a tough competitor. I think JoJo will have an immediate impact at STAC. I am really excited to see her growth, as I know she will have tremendous coaches working with her up there.”
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
Page 29
CARDINAL ROOFING AND SOLAR IS COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY
By Sharon Still
For three genera“We have sertions, the owners and vants’ hearts, and staff at Cardinal Roofit shows in the way ing and Solar Technolwe pour into our ogies trusted that the community,” she pathway to continued said, noting that success lay in listening the company also and learning from the is a big supporter previous generations. of local schools and This mindset has helped involved in several them stay open during organizations. good and bad financial “We are set For nearly 50 years, Cardinal Roofing and times. Quality craftmanapart by being loSolar Technologies has been serving the local ship coupled with small cally owned, locally community. town service are at the run and a charitacore of the company’s busible company that puts ness, and it shows. Owners into the community who Roger Jenkins, Bridget trusts us with their roofJenkins Wilson and Chad ing needs,” she explained. Curchin are committed to “We all live, work and play the local community, from where are customer base sponsoring Honor Flight is.” of West Central Florida to She warns customgiving their time and efforts to the upcom- ers about underinsured roofing companies ing Angels for Change Gala. that are knocking on doors and under-cut“We started and were successful with a ting pricing. Many people find these types truck and a pad of paper; we have grown of companies going out of business, leaving and thrived with technology and more em- a useless warranty. “We do not use scare ployees,” said Jenkins Wilson. tactics, pressure homeowners or give an Cardinal Roofing offers practical solutions estimate that could change mid-job,” said for both residents and commercial business- Jenkins Wilson. “It’s challenging for homees by repairing or replacing roofs and edu- owners to understand that we are the less cating customers about the importance of expensive company over time as we stand maintenance to increase the roof’s longevity. behind our work.” “We’re proud of our work and stand beShe added that education is a large part of hind every shingle and nail,” commented what they do. “It’s so rewarding to see peoJenkins Wilson. ple relax after we explain fully what is going She also said that what makes her most on and to take the ‘scary’ out of construcproud is the company’s dedication to the tion,” she said. Cardinal Roofing is located at community, including its upcoming ninth 1312 Orangewalk Dr. in Brandon. Its office annual sporting clays event, Shoot for Those hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Call Who Shot for U.S., benefitting veteran char- 813-689-7663 or visit www.cardinalroofinities. gandsolar.com for more information.
Page 30
Valrico Edition
Volume 19, Issue 5
VILLAGE PLAYERS TO PRESENT SHERLOCK HOLMES WINTHROP ARTS MOBILE ART FACTORY STUDENTS AT ITS HISTORIC THEATER IN VALRICO SHOWCASE NEW ART EXHIBIT AT KRAZY KUP By Kathy L Collins The Village Players on a quick observation. will present Sherlock After Wiggins sees Holmes and the 1st Holmes use the ring Baker Street Irregular to solve a case, Wigduring the month of gins proposes to work May. Sherlock Holmes as his assistant. Inand the 1st Baker trigued by her potenStreet Irregular is ditial, Holmes agrees to rected by Gail Pierce. begin training Wiggins Shows will be preon a trial basis, so long sented on Friday, May as she helps Mrs. Hud6, 13 and 20 and Satson with the chores. urday, May 7, 14 and 21 Wiggins and Holmes at 8 p.m. There will be must learn to trust two Sunday matinees each other as Wiggins on May 8 and 15 at 3 and her group of street p.m. The Village Players, under the direction of urchins help him solve Tickets are $18 for Gail Pierce, will present Sherlock Holmes two dangerous mysgeneral admission and the 1st Baker Street Irregular over sev- teries. and $15 for students, eral weekends, including a special Mother’s Pierce said, “I am Day matinee, in May. seniors, military and one of Sherlock groups of 10 or more. Holmes’ biggest fans,” Reserve seating is availPierce added, “I saw able only with advance my first Sherlock ticket sales. Tickets can Holmes play, probe purchased online at duced by the London www.thevillageplayersShakespeare Compavalrico.com or by calling ny, when I went to 813-480-3147. the college London on A short synopsis of study for a semester. Sherlock Holmes and The Sherlock Holmes the 1st Baker Street Irplay I saw was amazregular is, according to ing. When I started Pierce: On a dare from directing, it was and her fellow street urchins, 14-year-old Wig- still is my goal to bring to life every play I gins tries to pickpocket a strange old man. direct.” Not only is Wiggins unsuccessful, but the Pierce said, “I hope you enjoy your expeold man, who is Sherlock Holmes in disguise, rience, one full of wit, cunning, surprise and manages to take the gold ring that was in a bit of humor.” Wiggins’ pocket and leave behind a note diThe Village Players present their shows at recting her where to go to get it back. the historic James McCabe Theater, located When Wiggins goes to 221B Baker Street at 506 5th St. in Valrico. to retrieve the ring, she is shocked to find out For more information, please visit www. how much Holmes knows about her based thevillageplayersvalrico.com.
By Kathy L Collins dinator for Hispanic Services Council in Plant City. Saavedra said, “The illustrious dove and the universal theme of peace really resonates with me. It is beautiful art that is thought-provoking and aesthetically very pleasing. I am very proud and quite astounded of how the kids were able to paint and express so much emotion onto a canThe students in the Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory, under the direction of Lead Art Instructor Bryant Martinez, created the current art exhibit at Krazy Kup in Plant City. The theme is peace and features folk art of the bird of peace inspired by Ukrainian folk artists.
The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory has unveiled a new art exhibit at Krazy Kup in Plant City. The art was created by Lead Art Instructor Bryant Martinez and students whose families receive services from Hispanic Services Council in Plant City. The art is located in the courtyard at Krazy Kup, which is at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. in historic downtown Plant City. The theme for the art is peace. Specifically, the mixed media on canvas pieces depict folk art of the bird of peace, which is inspired by Ukrainian folk artists. Martinez said, “Peace and love is the only way to live.” Martinez added, “The young students who come to Hispanic Services Council and who get to do art with the Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory have seen and endured so much. They know all too well that peace and love is the only way.” Martinez said, “We give the students the opportunity to create art and share art that respects peace and love. We hope to give this too to the community.” Annabel Saavedra is the community coor-
(Ages K-5)
vas. With the community coming together to create the pieces, I felt this is a moving message and a good way to build community character and strength.” Winthrop Arts has partnered with Hispanic Services Council since 2018 to bring the Mobile Art Factory to both Plant City and Wimauma. The grant-funded program is supported by Suncoast Credit Union, the Arts Council of Hillsborough County and the community. Saavedra said, “The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory program does so much more than just offer opportunities to make art. It is an integral part of our community. It helps bring families and especially the kids closer together for time to bond and spend time with one another. The partnership represents something beautiful.” For more information, please visit www. winthroparts.org and www.hispanicservicescouncil.org.
Valrico Edition
May 2022
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ARTS COUNCIL OF PLANT CITY PRESENTS SNAP A SELFIE CONTEST
‘CUBAN PATHWAYS’ AT HISTORY CENTER
Bay History Center, said, “This is a very ambitious exhibit as it tells 500 years of history in 2,000 square feet. It chronicles diverse groups of people who came to Cuba.” Massey added, “Cuba was the Caribbean hub of the modern Atlantic World and home to a diverse population.” In the exhibit, you will see a receipt for an enslaved person and transfer papers for Matilda, a Creole being transferred as property. Another interesting item is a painting. The subject is not what is of interest; rather, it is the painter, Vincente Escobar, a free black painter that makes the painting interesting. According to Massey, 20 percent of the population was free black people. There are artifacts related to the long ties Tampa has had with the island of Cuba, there are military artifacts and there is even a giant View-Master that shows Cuba when it was the number one foreign destination for 50 years until Fidel Castro took over in 1959. You will see an interesting group of items telling the story of China’s connection to Cuba. The collection occupies more than 2,000 square space of gallery space and will be available for viewing through February 2023. Cuban Pathways will then travel the Southeastern United States. For more information on this exhibit and all of the other exhibits at the Tampa Bay History Center, please visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org or call 228-0097.
The newest traveling exhibit at the Tampa Bay History Center is Cuban Pathways, which explores 500 years of history. The exhibit is available for viewing through February 2023.
The newest traveling exhibit at the Tampa Bay History Center, located at 801 Water St. in downtown Tampa, is titled ‘Cuban Pathways.’ The exhibit chronicles over 500 years of history from three paths: African, Chinese and Spanish. It is truly an amazing exhibit. The oldest artifact is a Peter Martyr map from 1511 which identifies the island of Cuba. The exhibit also contains a chug boat, which is a little, handmade open vessel powered by a small diesel engine. The boat in the exhibit was used in 2021 by 12 Cubans to cross the Florida Straits. This is the first traveling exhibit produced exclusively by the Tampa Bay History Center. Dr. Brad Massey, Saunders Foundation Curator of Public History for the Tampa
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The Arts Council of winners. First place Plant City is hosting a will receive $50 in Snap a Selfie Contest. cash and $50 in The Snap a Selfie Congift cards. Second test is in conjunction place will receive with the return of the J. $25 in cash and Seward Johnson statues $50 in gift cards. that have been placed Third place will restrategically throughout ceive $25 in cash downtown Plant City. and $25 in gift Now through Monday, cards. May 30, you can snap a Dodie White with Take a stroll through downtown Plant photo with yourself and City and take a selfie with one of J. Seward the Arts Council of Johnson’s seven lifelike statues, such as any of the seven trompe Plant City said, “We Keep Life in Balance, located in McCall l’oeil painted bronze are so excited to statues, which are cast- Park on Collins Street. Submit your selfie have the J. Seward on the Arts Council of Plant City’s Faceings of live people enJohnson Sculptures book page now through Monday, May 30 gaged in everyday tasks. back again in beauand you just might win a prize. Take a selfie with Relish, tiful downtown Too?, located at Roots Cellar on Collins Plant City. They add so much to our downStreet; Latte?, located in Unity Park on town area.” Collins Street; or even Bake Sale, located The other four sculptures include Body near the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Mu- Music, located at the intersection of seum on N. Palmer Street, and post it with Palmer Street and East Reynolds Street; a title on the Arts Council of Plant City’s Ambassador of the Streets, located on Facebook page. the east end on McCall Park; Keep Life in Take the selfie of yourself, your family, Balance, located in McCall Park on Collins your civic club, your business and even Street; and Captured, located on the Vilyour pet. The winners of the Snap a Self- lage Green on Evers Street. ie Contest will be determined by the Arts The mission of the Arts Council of Plant Council Board. Winners will be contacted City is to bring arts to the Plant City comvia Facebook Messenger and invited to at- munity, to promote education in the arts tend the Sculpture Walking Tour on Thurs- and to develop artists and arts programs. day, June 2 at 6 p.m. For more information, please visit www. There will be prizes awarded to three plantcityarts.com.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 19, Issue 5
