Osprey Observer Riverview/Apollo Beach November 2024

SHOW MUST GO ON AS RUSKIN FAMILY DRIVE-IN PREPARES TO REOPEN

The Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre, with more than 50 years of continuous service to the Ruskin and South Hillsborough County, has been a community gathering place since its first movie, Singing in the Rain, played in 1952.

By Libby Hopkins

the drive-in.

“We didn’t have power where we evacuated to, so it took us a while to see pictures of the damage,” Freiwald said. “When the roads were finally cleared

“My husband Ted has been working at the drive-in since the first day it opened,” said owner Karen Freiwald. “The visitors who attended opening night were really ‘singing in the rain’ because it was rain on that first night.”

Memories from opening night to present day have been something the Ruskin Family Drive-In has made for many people in the Ruskin community.

“We call it the ‘last family drive-in’ in the USA because families, dating couples, single parents with children and everyone else young and old can come and visit us,” Freiwald said. “We had family values when family values were the rule. We still have family values; although, by some, we’re not considered cool.”

Hurricane Milton wreaked havoc on Ruskin’s beloved family drive-in.

“The drive-in o ered great movies, good food and peace and quiet on a continuous basis,” Freiwald said. “We had a 2,000-square-foot screen, clean restrooms, snack bar and clean parking lot. Now, most of the drive-in was destroyed by Hurricane Milton. We estimate the damage between $100K to $150K.”

The couple had evacuated before the storm hit the Ruskin area, so they really didn’t know how much damage was done to

and we were able to come back to the drivein, we were devastated by all the damage the drive-in had sustained.”

The Ruskin community was also devastated that the drive-in was destroyed, but the community came together to help the couple rebuild their drive-in. A GoFundMe account was made for the drive-in and the donations started to pour in. The donations were not big, but each one started to add up, and currently there is more than $24K and counting in its account.

“We are overwhelmed by the community support,” Freiwald said. “Donny Buzee rallied the community to help us rebuild and we are so grateful for all Donny and the community has done for us and the drive-in.”

Construction on the drive-in has been moving along very quickly.

“So many businesses have donated supplies, and the community is so supportive,” Freiwald said. “We are hoping to be reopened by Thanksgiving, and the movie we are planning on showing is Moana 2.”

Vsit www.ruskinfamilydrivein.com. To contribute, https://gofund.me/f30ac350.

The Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre is located at 5011 N. U.S. 41 in Ruskin.

In the wake of Hurricane Milton, which swept through Florida, area residents have come together to restore our community and support one another in the aftermath of the storm. With winds reaching up to 100 mph and heavy rainfall leaving widespread debris, residents are rolling up their sleeves and pitching in to help their neighbors.

COMMUNITY & RESIDENTS UNITE FOR CLEANUP FOLLOWING HURRICANE MILTON

By Marie Gilmore

Community volunteers gathered throughout area communities and parks in one of the areas hardest hit by the hurricane. Armed with trash bags, rakes and chainsaws, the volunteers, ranging from families to local businesses, tackled fallen trees, scattered debris and the remnants of damaged structures.

“It’s heartwarming to see everyone come together like this,” said local resident and organizer Dave Marshall. “We may have lost some things, but we’ll rebuild stronger than ever as a community.”

The cleanup e ort is being led by residents and volunteers who mobilized local resources and coordinated e orts.

Local businesses have also stepped up, with nearby restaurants donating food for volunteers and hardware stores o ering discounts on supplies needed for home repairs. The Lithia Food Bank has seen an increase in demand due to dislocation from the storm, prompting local residents to organize additional food drives to replenish its stock.

“In times like this, we really see the spirit of Lithia shining through,” said food bank director Laura Sanchez. “Neighbors are here for neighbors, and we’re determined to make sure everyone has what they need.”

While many residents are grateful for the outreach and help, recovery efforts will require significant time and dedication. The county has declared a state of emergency, allowing local leaders to access federal resources to aid in rebuilding infrastructure, particularly for those whose homes were severely damaged. FEMA representatives have begun assessing the situation to determine support for individuals and families a ected by the storm.

As the sun sets on another day of cleanup, the volunteers feel an undeniable sense of hope and solidarity. The spirit of our community is proving that even in the face of adversity, we stand united, ready to rebuild. For help, visit https://www.fema.gov/.

e Ruskin Family Drive-In eatre has been a part of the Ruskin community since 1952. Hurricane Milton recently destroyed the drive-in, but the Ruskin community has come together to help rebuild this beloved family drive-in.

Osprey & Rotary team members clean up Ala a Canoe.

Rotary District 6890 debuts its Disaster Aid USA trailer.

Rotarians clean up Rotary Camp Florida in Brandon.

Staff Report

KEEP TAMPA BAY BEAUTIFUL HOSTS SUCCESSFUL SERIES OF COMMUNITY CLEANUPS

A local and renowned home decorator and business entrepreneur with over two decades of experience, Shaunessy Dobish has taken her creative talents from transforming spaces to the screen, developing an unscripted reality TV show pilot that is set to be pitched to major networks. Premiering locally on October 28, The Cottage is already garnering excitement in the area.

Dobish is a local resident and was born and raised in Brandon.

Known for her exceptional design and decorating skills, and as the owner of the popular home decor boutique and upscale restaurant the White Oak Cottage, Dobish now looks to bring her dynamic expertise and entrepreneurial journey to a wider audience.

The show, which is centered on Dobish’s life as a decorator and small business owner, offers an intimate, unscripted look at the day-to-day challenges and triumphs of running a successful home decor store while simultaneously curating beautiful and functional spaces for her clients. The series will highlight her creative process, her relationships with her team and clients and the unique stories that unfold as she works to create perfect, personalized homes.

“This show is about more than just decorating,” said Dobish. “It’s about showcasing the heart and hustle that goes into running a business, the real connections with clients and the joy of transforming spaces that impact people’s lives. I’m excited to share my journey and hopefully inspire others to follow their own passions.”

The Cottage aims to offer a fresh, authentic perspective on entrepreneurship, the world of interior decorating and the importance of balancing creativity with business acumen. With over two decades of experience in the home decorating industry, Dobish’s hands-on approach and her natural flair for storytelling make this show an exciting new entry into the world of lifestyle and design television.

The pilot episode, which has already garnered positive attention, will soon be presented to several major television networks and streaming platforms.

The series is being developed with a focus on Dobish’s hometown roots, the growth of her business and the relatable challenges that come with being a small business owner in the design world.

The unscripted format captures real-life moments, offering viewers a behind-thescenes look at the hard work and creativity that drives success.

With the show’s focus on entrepreneurship, interior design and decorating and a local thriving business, Dobish is eager to bring her story to a national platform and hopes the series will resonate with both aspiring business owners and design enthusiasts alike.

Please visit www.thecottage.tv and follow on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok, and don’t forget to subscribe to the YouTube channel. Exciting things are ahead!

Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful (KTBB) has recently completed a series of impactful community cleanups, with more events on the horizon. These efforts, part of the organization’s ongoing mission to promote environmental stewardship, have mobilized volunteers to clear storm debris left by recent hurricanes, helping the community recover while keeping local parks and waterfronts beautiful.

On October 15, 23 KTBB volunteers gathered on Davis Islands for a major cleanup effort, focusing on litter removal and recycling. The initiative continued on October 17 with cleanups at Picnic Island and Al Barnes Park, where nine volunteers focused on relocating storm debris to facilitate efficient collection.

The cleanup momentum was carried forward to October 18, when 17 volunteers turned their attention to Reed Park and Desoto Park, working to clear litter and hurricane debris, ensuring it was ready for pickup. Lightning Foundation volunteers helped as well by using saws and other tools to help cut down tree branches and logs.

Next, on October 22, KTBB hosted a special ‘Cleaning for a Cause’ at Al Lopez Park, with nine volunteers focusing not only on

Staff Report

hurricane debris removal and beautifying the park but also contributing to the health of our ecosystem by helping to reduce pollutants that may be linked to ailments like cancer.

The organization then followed up with cleanups at Robles Park on October 24 and Stephen J. Wortham Park on October 26, where 30 and 35 volunteers, respectively, continued assisting with the removal of hurricane debris.

In total, thanks to the efforts of KTBB and its volunteers at each of these cleanups, 4,090 lbs. of trash and debris was cleared away from our local environments, according to Sarah-Nicole Green, environmental coordinator at Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful.

“We are incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work of our volunteers,” said Green. “These cleanups not only help beautify our parks and waterways but are also crucial in the aftermath of the recent hurricanes, ensuring storm debris is cleared and ready for proper disposal.”

Through these cleanups, KTBB continues to engage community members in handson environmental action, working together to keep Tampa Bay’s parks clean and safe for all.

For more information on upcoming cleanups or how to get involved, visit www. keeptampabaybeautiful.org.

A behind-the-scenes look at the filming of the TV show The Cottage at The White Oak Cottage in Lithia.

Volunteers at Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful’s cleanup in Reed Park.

RIVERVIEW HIGH SCHOOL GRAD BUILDS ON

Since 1942, sailors assigned to the U.S. Navy’s Construction Force have been building and fighting around the world. Petty Officer 2nd Class Tucker Hassell is one of those sailors.

Hassell, who graduated from Riverview High School in 2015, joined the Navy nine years ago.

SEABEES 82-YEAR LEGACY

Hassell is a culinary specialist currently serving with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 11 at the headquarters for naval construction forces in Gulfport, Mississippi, which serves as a home base for the Atlantic Fleet Seabees.

“My father, Carl Hassell, served 28 years in the Navy,” said Hassell. “He served five years active, then went into the Reserve, serving for 23 years, making chief quartermaster and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 3. I wanted to follow in his footsteps.”

“I would say the Navy taught me more skills than I learned back home, like a good work ethic, but it’s also taught me that anything can happen in an instant,” said Hassell. “So, enjoy life, be nice to people because life is too short to be angry.”

With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea

fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Hassell serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

Hassell has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment is doing five deployments over the course of five years,” said Hassell. “It definitely taught me mental toughness and resilience.”

Hassell can take pride in serving America through military service.

“It’s about the people that you serve with,” said Hassell. “I’ve worked with some really good people from all over the country, and when you’re cramped up on a ship together, you become brothers for life.”

Hassell is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I would like to give a shout out to my brother, Nicholas Scudder, who is with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office,” said Hassell. “Love you, bro, and stay safe out there.

This year’s Ruskin Seafood and Arts Festival is even more important to the community, said Melanie Davis, Greater SouthShore Chamber of Commerce executive director.

“It would have been really easy and justified to cancel the festival. … Our whole community kind of has this cloud over them,” Davis said. “I really think that keeping it will help raise the spirits, raise the morale in the community, just to rally together and have fun.”

The 34th annual event comes in the wake of a pair of hurricanes that battered the community, ruining the chamber’s office and leaving it ‘homeless’ while planning events for the community remotely for the rest of the year.

The aftermath of Hurricane Milton forced the chamber to cancel its annual Veterans Day parade. But Davis said the chamber still wanted to celebrate its veterans at the Seafood and Arts Festival.

“We’re doing a huge tribute to veterans,” Davis said.

Some of those who were going to be in the parade will get to participate in a mini parade during the festival ahead of the opening ceremonies.

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By Lily Belcher

“We’re kind of shifting,” she said. “We’re still working on the planning of it, but it will be a really nice, heartfelt tribute. It will definitely stand out as its own little piece of the festival.”

This year’s festival will be free to help those dealing with the aftermath of the hurricane. While Davis said she could have still charged the entrance fee and donated it to relief efforts, she felt like a free festival will allow people to get a break from hurricane recovery.

Davis encouraged those that can spend money to give it to local vendors that will be at the festival. There will also be food for guests that do not like seafood, as well as live music and entertainment. There will also be a car show and homemade arts and crafts.

The 34th annual Ruskin Seafood and Art Festival will be held at E.G. Simmons Regional Park on Saturday, November 16, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, November 17, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The cost of park admission will be $2.00.

For more information on the festival, visit https://ruskinseafoodfest.org/ or contact Davis at melanie@southshorechamberofcommerce.org.

The Ruskin Seafood and Arts Festival will have food and entertainment.

Photo courtesy of Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jeffrey Yale. Riverview High School graduate Petty Officer 2nd Class Tucker Hassell.

kcollins@Jpspreyobserver.com

Kerrie Hoening

813-625-1527 khoening@ospreyobserver.com

Melody Gershkoff

813-300-5152 mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com

By Nitish Rele

240, 300, 350 and 370. Remember the numerical prefixes that would accompany the legendary Nissan sports coupe? Well, as of last year, those are all history, as the car is now simply known as the Z. Not many people today may remember the name Yutaka Katayama, the late former president of Nissan’s U.S. operations in the 1970s. He was instrumental in bringing the Fairlady Z, known then as 240Z, to the American roads. And what a journey it’s been for the classic, which debuted as a 2.4-liter single-overhead cam, inline six-cylinder engine with just 150 horsepower, four-speed or threespeed automatic transmission and 14inch wheels in 1970.

NISSAN Z (PERFORMANCE)

Tires: 255/40R19 front; 275/35R19 rear Wheelbase: 100.4 inches

Length: 172.4 inches

Height: 51.8 inches

Width: 72.6 inches

Suspension: double wishbone

aluminum front; independent multilink rear

Steering: speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion

Weight: 3,536 pounds

the LED headlights flanking a black grille that meets up with a long aluminum hood, doors and the hatchback. The lower rear stance, short deck and silhouette will remind onlookers of first-gen Z. A classic touch is a three-bay gauge pod for voltmeter, boost and turbo speed. Leather/ suede inserts on the firm but cushy seats look cool too. Some fine standard cabin amenities are auto AC, push-button ignition, four-way power heated front seats, intelligent cruise control, manual tilt/telescopic steering column, 12-inch digital dash display, aluminum sport pedals, 9-inch touch screen for infotainment and an eight-speaker Bose sound system.

Now, 54 years later, the seventh-gen Z comes with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that blasts o 400 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 350 pounds-feet of torque at 5,200 rpm. Like to shift gears? Go for the six-speed manual or take the nine-speed auto gearbox in this rearwheel-drive coupe. Our Performance edition came with a sport-tuned suspension, and, for the first time, the Z gets a launch control without wheel spin and hop for those heavy lead-footers who like to pull away for a thrill or two.

Deriving the idea from the Japanese market’s 240ZG are two half-circles in

Standard dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, stability/traction control, auto emergency brakes with pedestrian detection, blind-spot/lane-departure/forward-collision warnings, rear cross-tra c alert, limited-slip di erential, active-head restraints, front/rear crumple zones, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

An iconic car that boasts tremendous performance, elegant styling and great value for money? That’s the Z for you. And the incredible ride has over five decades to prove its worthiness.

RESILIENCE IN ACTION: A COMMUNITY RESPONSE TO HURRICANE MILTON

Hillsborough County once again demonstrated its incredible community strength during Hurricane Milton. Through tireless efforts, our district sta , educators, students, parents and local partners came together to ensure the safety and well-being of our schools and the broader community before, during, and after the storm.

Before Hurricane Milton made landfall, our leadership and operations teams were hard at work around the clock, preparing for any outcome. From securing school buildings to coordinating with local emergency services, the dedication of our sta was truly exceptional. In total, 16 of our schools served as shelters, providing refuge for over 15,000 evacuees. Seventeen of our buses were used to transport evacuees and their loved ones, including pets, to shelters.

By Superintendent Van Ayres

more than 59,000 meals to those in need.

THE WINDOW IS NOW OPEN TO SELECT SCHOOL MAGNET AND CHOICE PROGRAMS

By Brad Stager

Once the storm passed, the work didn’t stop. Twenty of our schools flooded inside their facilities and over 170 of our schools lost power. Students and local volunteers quickly mobilized, helping our team clean school grounds and helping organize resources for those most impacted.

During the storm, our sta stayed on-site at the shelters to assist evacuees and emergency personnel. Our remarkable Student Nutrition Services team prepared and distributed

Over 100 of our educators were displaced by the storms and countless families suffered damage or loss. We will continue to connect them with the resources and support they need.

The district’s ability to reopen schools as swiftly as possible is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our entire team and our community. We o er our deepest thanks to every member of the Hillsborough County Public Schools family, every volunteer and the organizations that supported our schools during this time. Together, we showed what it means to be #HillsboroughStrong.

Recent hurricanes have impacted school attendance dates, and families may be wondering about other changes to the district calendar, such as when to apply to Hillsborough County Public Schools’ (HCPS) magnet and choice programs for the 2025-26 school year.

According to an email statement from district o cials, “The only change is the Magnet Window is now revised due to the hurricane. The window now is November 11 to December 31.”

The district’s magnet schools emphasize distinct subject themes ranging from science and technology to performing and visual arts with classes that can teach technical skills such as robotics or develop a student’s talent as a dancer.

One feature of the school district’s magnet programs is that school attendance is not determined by where a student lives. Hillsborough County families can apply to magnet programs anywhere in the school district. Bus transportation is provided for most magnet school choices, based on the student’s address. Students using district transportation are picked up by buses in their neighborhoods and driven to local magnet transportation hubs, or ‘magnet ramps,’ that provide supervised transfer of students to buses that will take them to schools that each hub services.

School choice options include atten-

dance based on student interests, location or hardship situations.

For students who like to learn virtually, one popular choice is the option to learn online via Hillsborough Virtual K-12 (HVK12). Access to course content and teachers is provided remotely, which o ers convenience to students and their families in scheduling educational instruction.

A real-world education is available through the school district’s career and technical education (CTE) program that provides hands-on skill development and education for various technical careers in fields such as health care and data management. Students may follow up on their CTE experience with college education, internships, skill certification, apprenticeships or employment opportunities.

Families can apply for Hillsborough County magnet and school choice options during open enrollment periods. According to the HCPS website, elementary and middle magnet, school choice and CTE applications are subject to a computer lottery to choose applicants, except CTE middle schools and all magnet high schools, which base acceptance on student academic scores.

You can learn more about educational options available through HCPS by visiting www.hillsboroughschools.org or calling 813-272-4692.

Volunteers helping with Hurricane Milton cleanup at Riverview High School.

Superintendent Van Ayres with Student Nutritional Services team prepping for evacuees.

Spoto High School in Riverview was recognized as a 2023-24 National Magnet Schools of Merit Award winner.

PROPERTY APPRAISER BOB HENRIQUEZ

HOSTS PRESS CONFERENCE ON CRITICAL PROPERTY TAX RELIEF

Hillsborough County Property Appraiser (HCPA) Bob Henriquez, joined by local leaders Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy Millan, Florida State Senator Jay Collins and Hillsborough County Commission Chair Ken Hagan, announced vital property tax relief options for homeowners and businesses a ected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

MEASURES

“Our goal is to provide accurate information and ensure no one misses out on potential tax relief,” said Henriquez. “The resources we’ve outlined today are designed to ease the burden on property owners as they recover from these devastating storms.”

Key property tax relief measures discussed at the conference include:

• Homestead Exemption Protection: Homeowners with storm-damaged, uninhabitable properties can maintain their homestead exemption for up to five years, provided they intend to restore and reoccupy the home (F.S. 196.013).

• Save Our Homes and 10 Percent Nonhomestead Cap: Homestead properties have a 3 percent cap on annual taxable value increases, while nonhomestead and commercial properties are capped at 10 percent. Homeowners can repair or rebuild within these limits without losing their protection, provided the new square footage doesn’t exceed 10 percent of the original (F.S. 193.155 and F.S. 193.1554).

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• Commercial Property Relief: Commercial property owners can repair or rebuild damaged structures while maintaining the 10 percent annual cap on taxable value increases (F.S. 193.1555).

• 2024 Property Tax Refund: Homeowners with properties deemed uninhabitable for more than 30 days in 2024 may be eligible for a proportional tax refund. Applications are due by March 1, 2025, with forms available on the HCPA’s at www.hcpafl. org. Proof of damage will be required, and refunds will be processed by the tax collector’s o ce (F.S. 197.319).

Henriquez urged a ected property owners to take immediate action by reporting damage through the HCPA’s Damage Assessment Form at https:// dmz.hcpafl.org/storm/, emailing stormdamage@hcpafl.org or calling the Property Damage Hotline at 813-272-6332.

“We are committed to providing relief and ensuring that residents and businesses can recover as swiftly and smoothly as possible,” added Henriquez. Working in conjunction with local leaders such as Millan will help to ensure that the community has access to the resources and relief needed to rebuild.

The Hillsborough County property appraiser is an elected o cial charged with the duty and responsibility to appraise all property in the County. For more information, visit www.hcpafl.org.

During a press conference outlining collaborative e orts to assist homeowners and business owners a ected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene, Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy Millan, alongside Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez, State Senator Jay Collins and County Commission Chair Ken Hagan, announced critical measures to provide property tax relief for those impacted by the storms.

Millan is extending the 4 percent early payment discount period through Tuesday, December 31, to ensure that residents have more time to take advantage of the maximum savings.

Property tax notices are typically mailed on November 1; however, this year’s notices will be mailed on Monday, November 25. The delayed mailing allows the discount period to be extended under Florida law, providing additional relief to property owners still recovering from hurricane-related damages.

Over 535,500 property tax notices will be sent to homeowners and business owners across Hillsborough County.

“In challenging times like these, it’s essential that we come together as a community and o er every opportunity for relief,” said Millan. “By delaying the mailing of tax notices and extending the discount period, we’re giving residents and businesses the time and support they need to rebuild their homes, businesses, and

lives, while continuing to meet our obligation under Florida law to collect the tax revenue that supports vital services like schools and law enforcement.”

Although 2024 property tax notices will not be mailed until November 25, the 2024 Real Estate and Tangible Personal Property Tax information is available online now at www. hillstax.org. Property owners can still make payment beginning on Friday, November 1. Property taxes are paid in arrears. The tax bills that will be mailed November 25 reflect an assessed property value as of January 1 this year and do not account for any property damage caused by Hurricanes Helene or Milton. By law, 2024 property taxes are due by March 31, 2025, unless an extension is provided under the current executive order. Residents whose property taxes are paid through escrow should contact their mortgage companies for more information on the remittance of escrowed property tax payments.

This initiative is part of a broader e ort by local leaders and government o cials to provide meaningful support to residents facing financial hardship due to the storms.

For more information about property taxes, payment options, and available resources, please visit www.hillstax.org or contact the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s O ce.

WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT RESCINDS WATER SHORTAGE ORDER

The Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board has rescinded its Modified Phase 1 Water Shortage Order. The move eliminates the one-dayper-week watering restrictions for unincorporated Hillsborough County. Current year-round rules now allow watering twice per week on designated days.

e Phase 1 Water Shortage Order has been rescinded. Current rules now allow watering twice per week on designated days.

For residents who live in Tampa, Plant City or Temple Terrace, it’s important to research that municipality’s watering restrictions.

The water management district’s governing board declared a Modified Phase I Water Shortage Order in November 2023. It voted to extend that order in February and again in June and August as the water resources and public water supplies continued to recover from below-normal rainfall during the 2023 summer rainy season.

However, the district’s 16-county region has received above-average rainfall during the 2024 summer rainy season, which includes rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby. Provisional data show the district also received up to 10-15 inches of rainfall in some areas from Hurricane Milton. Lakes, streams, ponds, wetlands and aquifer levels have improved, and Tampa Bay Water’s 15.5-billion-gallon C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir is nearly full.

All properties in unincorporated Hillsborough County follow year-round wa-

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tering days and hours. Residents should know their lawn watering days and hours to avoid getting a fine:

• Addresses ending in 0, 1, 2 and 3 — Monday and/or Thursday.

• Addresses ending in 4, 5 and 6 — Tuesday and/or Friday.

• Addresses ending in 7, 8 and 9 — Wednesday and/or Saturday.

Locations with no address (common areas) and locations with mixed addresses (such as o ce complexes and shopping centers) can water on Wednesday and/or Saturday.

All watering must be done between 12 Midnight-8 a.m. or between 6 p.m.-12 Midnight, and only once on designated days. Reclaimed water for irrigation can be used any day of the week but is prohibited between the hours of 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn more at www.hcfl.gov/waterrestrictions.

Property owners should reprogram their automatic irrigation timers to adjust to their assigned two day a week schedule. Get free help with adjusting your automatic irrigation timer from a Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program coordinator by contacting Will Stone at 813-744-5519, ext. 54133, or stonewi@ hcfl.gov.

Learn more about watering rules for reclaimed water, new sod, landscaping, car washing and more by visiting www. hcfl.gov/water.

Floods, winds, tornadoes, storm surges and fears marked the autumn of our discontent as Tampa Bay braced for an unprecedented reckoning with the advancing wrath of Hurricane Milton, the third hurricane to hit Florida this year.

“No other year on record has more than three,” according to a report by AccuWeather, dated October 10, which preliminarily estimates damages for Milton between $160 and $180 billion. “After an early pause, the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is now above normal by all measures.”

Indeed, the North Atlantic basin between August 13 and September 2, for the first time since 1968, did not produce a named storm, according to a Moody’s report. The unexpected midseason lull was not to last for Florida, as the one-two punch of major hurricanes left in its wake new records, grim realities, massive power outages, costly cleanups and a dogged determination to support, rebuild and endure.

Hurricane Debby, as a Category 1 storm, made landfall in Steinhatchee on August 5. Hurricane Helene on September 26, also in the Big Ben area, made landfall near Perry

By Linda Chion

as a Category 4 storm. Then, on October 9, Hurricane Milton as a Category 3 storm roared into Siesta Key, a coastal community about 50 miles south of Tampa. Together, Helene and Milton caused Hillsborough County schools to close for 11 days.

“Milton will go down as one of the most damaging and impactful storms in Florida history,” the AccuWeather report notes, “along with Hurricane Helene’s estimated total damages and economic loss of $225 to $250 billion just two weeks earlier, which resulted in significant damage from the Gulf Coast of Florida to the southern Appalachians, where a catastrophic flooding disaster occurred.”

According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data, the latest numbers are likely to put Milton in 13th place for most tornadoes produced by a U.S. hurricane since 1995.

Meanwhile, Hurricane Milton is the fifth hurricane to make landfall in the Gulf Coast this season, after Berry, Debby, Francine and Helene. This ties the counts for both the 2005 and 2020 hurricane seasons.

As Hurricane Milton raced toward Florida as a Category 5 behemoth, Tampa Bay residents braced for what many feared would be ‘the big one.’ Thanks to its eventual circulation a bit more than 20 miles to the south, Tampa Bay averted a catastrophic storm surge, and Milton failed to go on record as the worst storm ever in Tampa Bay’s history.

Respite Center provides

daily lunch specials

Tuesday - Thursday

THE 40TH ANNUAL ALAFIA LIGHTED BOAT PARADE RETURNS

Experience the holidays Florida-style! The 40th annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade, presented by FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club and Chris Ligori & Associates, will be held on Saturday, December 7, from 4-7 p.m. at the Riverview Civic Center, with a party afterward at River’s Edge Bar and Grill in Gibsonton, where the winners of the best decorated boats will be announced. Viewing of the boat parade and parking are free. Come out and celebrate with everyone!

Beginning at 4 p.m. at the Riverview Civic Center, festivities will take place both inside the Riverview Civic Center and on the grounds. Inside, snap a photo with Santa and vote for the highly competitive chili cook-off. Tantalize your taste buds, sample the variety of chilis and vote for your favorite for a donation of $5. Hot dogs, drinks and popcorn will be available by donation as well.

On the grounds, enjoy festive music and entertainment while awaiting the bright holiday lights of the decorated boats in the parade. Holiday craft making will be available for the children. Decorated boats will begin the parade passing in front of the Riverview Civic Center just prior to sundown, usually just before 6 p.m. Last year, over 30 boats participated.

New this year, the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club is excited to announce the participation of nonprofits offering a variety of resources in our area. Be sure

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to stop by their booths to learn more and visit “Wish Tree Lane,” brightly decorated trees by each organization with ways in which you can support their missions.

Chili cook-off winners will be announced just before 7 p.m. inside the Riverview Civic Center, then join in at River’s Edge Bar and Grill with newly added boat docks for the presentation of Best Decorated Boat awards.

Chris Ligori & Associates is the title sponsor, and sponsorships opportunities are still available varying from $100-$2,500 for recognition and exposure for your business or organization.

This is a well-attended event.

Since its inception, FishHawk-Riverview Rotary members have separately given through dues and donations over $160,000 in the past to PolioPlus and the Rotary Foundation for global projects in seven areas of focus. Locally, it has funded scholarships to colleges and accredited trade schools for select graduating high school seniors who demonstrated a commitment to service. Support is also given to Rotary’s Camp Florida (a camp for special needs children) in Brandon, scholarships for rising high school junior delegates to S4TL (Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders) and many local organizations nominated by members. Visit www.fishhawkriverviewrotary.org or on Facebook at FishHawk-Riverview Rotary for more information.

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is excited to invite you to kick off your Thanksgiving celebrations in a unique and spirited way at the 10th annual Tampa YMCA Turkey Gobble road race. This iconic community event is set to take place Thanksgiving morning, November 28, at AMALIE Arena, located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa.

This family-friendly event offers a variety of options for participants of all ages and fitness levels. Join the fun with the 5K run/ walk at 7 a.m. if you are looking to challenge yourself, or enjoy a leisurely 1-mile fun run at 8 a.m. For those who prefer to participate from the comfort of their homes, the YMCA also offers a virtual 5K option.

Participants can look forward to cherished traditions, including engaging team fundraising efforts, a vibrant costume contest and awards for the top three male and female finishers in each age group, adding a competitive yet fun element to the festivities.

Dawn Kita, Tampa Y’s operations director of community health, who oversees the race, expressed her enthusiasm: “You get to wobble before you gobble! This event provides a perfect opportunity to engage in some physical activity before heading home to prepare the Thanksgiving feast. And the best part? On this special day of gratitude, you have the chance to give back to a meaningful cause.”

No matter how you choose to participate, you’ll be supporting an important cause. All proceeds from the race directly benefit LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA, a free 12-week program designed to support cancer patients and survivors throughout the Tampa community.

Due to the race’s popularity, it consistently sells out each year, so early registration is encouraged to secure your spot and commit to this exciting event.

She encourages families to bring their loved ones along, stating, “Dogs are welcome too. And if you can’t join us on Thanksgiving morning, there are still ways to contribute by volunteering or donating to support the YMCA and cancer survivors in our community.”

Join the Tampa YMCA in making this Thanksgiving one to remember, filled with fun, fitness and philanthropy. Visit www.tampaymca.org/turkey-gobble for more information.

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA invites you to the 10th annual Turkey Gobble run/walk on Thanksgiving morning, November 28. Bring the whole family and come in costume to have more fun at this year’s Tampa Metropolitan Area

Jennifer Greene & Clint Fletcher Owners of Complete Ketamine Tampa

The Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview will hold the 40th annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade and chili cook-off on Saturday, December 7.

LOCAL DROP-OFF LOCATIONS TO OPEN FOR OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

Despite recent storms, volunteers are still preparing to collect Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts during National Collection Week, from Monday, November 18 through Monday, November 25. More than 4,700 drop-o locations will open across the country, and shoebox packers can find their local drop-o locations nearest to them.

For over three decades, Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, has been collecting and delivering gift-filled shoeboxes to children, including many who are su ering from war, poverty, disease and disaster. These shoebox gifts, packed with fun toys, school supplies and personal care items, bring joy and hope to children who may have never received a gift of their own. Operation Christmas Child hopes to reach another 12 million children in 2024 with the hope of Jesus.

Shoebox packing is fun for individuals, families and groups. Find a step-by-step guide on the How to Pack a Shoebox webpage. The project partners with local churches across the globe to deliver these tangible expressions of God’s love to children in need. Participants can donate $10 per shoebox gift online through ‘Follow Your Box’ and receive a tracking label to discover its destination.

“Children need hope, and they need to know that they are not alone and God loves them,” said Franklin Graham, pres-

ident of Samaritan’s Purse. “Gift-filled shoeboxes open the door for us to share the hope of the gospel with boys and girls around the world. Please pray that these simple gifts have an eternal impact.”

Participants can find the nearest dropo location and hours of operation as they make plans to drop o their shoebox gifts. The online lookup tool is searchable by city or ZIP code and will help those searching for the nearest drop-o point, especially in areas a ected by recent storms. Signs at each location will identify the drop-o .

Local locations include Redeemer Church at 12404 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, Calvary Chapel Brandon at 1331 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon, First Baptist Church of Dover at 3223 Gallagher Rd. in Dover and more.

Operation Christmas Child seeks to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world and, together with local churches worldwide, to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 220 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories. For more information, including how to pack a shoebox, gift suggestions, other drop-o locations and more, visit https:// samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/. Sta Report

BIKES FOR CHRIST UNVEILS NEW BUILDING AND SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the rights of the a icted and the destitute. Psalm 82:3. This Bible verse has been the mantra of Pat Simmons, founder and director of the local nonprofit Bikes For Christ.

“In 2015, I took a mission trip with my church to Nicaragua,” Simmons said. “I experienced what real poverty was Like. When I returned, I was on fire to do something, but I didn’t know what I wanted to do. So, I started getting involved with ministries that worked directly with those in need. First Amazing Love Ministries, and then Kay’s Ministry. Finally, about six months into this, a light finally goes o above my head, or should I say God instilled in me, that I should start a ministry that helped people with transportation. I had wanted to find something that combined my love of cycling with something that had purpose and now I had found it.”

Bikes For Christ was started in 2016 with a commitment to help those in need while also sharing the love of God.

“Our organization has quickly grown to encompass providing transportation across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk and Pasco counties with a mission to one day be nationwide,” Simmons said. “By showing God’s love through providing bicycles for those in need, we hope to lead them to a life in His eternal kingdom.”

With the recent hurricanes that hit the

By Libby Hopkins

Tampa Bay area, the need for help and transportation has increased. Simmons is looking to the Brandon community for volunteers.

“We are in great need of volunteers to help us with repairing bikes so we can fulfill all the requests our ministry gets for bikes,” Simmons said. “I’m also looking for a volunteer who could be my assistant so I can stay on top of everything that is required of me to run our ministry.”

Bikes For Christ was lucky with Hurricane Milton because the property, recently upgraded with a new building for repairs, received minimal damage.

“Only one of our canopies was damaged,” Simmons said. “During the hurricane, I was contacted by Belleair Towers in Clearwater because they wanted to do a fundraiser for us. I’m thrilled to say we have partnered with Belleair Towers to host Bicycles and Holiday Bells on December 7 from 10 a.m. to noon at their location in Clearwater.”

Simmons appreciates any help the community can provide to help Bikes For Christ to thrive.

“If you can’t volunteer, monetary donations can always help our mission,” Simmons said. “We welcome any help from our community.”

If you would like to learn more about Bikes For Christ, you can visit its website at www.bikes4christ.com or contact Simmons at 813-533-9177.

Samaritan Purse’s Operation Christmas Child project aims to deliver gift- lled shoeboxes to millions of children in need.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT SOARS: MAYOR’S RACE RAISES $100,000 FOR CHARITIES

The final counts are in, and it’s the charities that benefit as Dawn Myers and David Segui celebrated campaigns for honorary mayor of East Hillsborough County.

At a celebration and check distribution event in October, checks totaling just under $100,000 cemented the deal for the race sponsored by the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce (VFCC), which is won by the candidate who ‘campaigns’ to raise the most money in one month’s time for their selected nonprofits.

Myers, owner of Myers Law, P.A., ran her race for the Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO) and for High 5 Inc., formerly known as the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center. Segui, owner of iSmash Tampa, ran his race for the Impact Program, Hope for Her and Small But Mighty Heroes.

Calling Myers and Segui up to the stage at J.F. Kicks Restaurant & Patio Bar in Valrico for the final tally announcements, chamber representative Danielle Stevens set the stage for the much-anticipated fundraising reveal, just days after Hurricane Milton, the second of two major hurricanes 11 days apart, made its mark in Hillsborough County.

“What our community’s gone through over the past week is unbelievable, and what a perfect time for all of this money that has been raised between these two to go to these charities that need our help more than ever,” said Stevens, owner of Vine Vegan, who in 2023 won VFCC’s first-ever East Hillsborough County Honorary Mayor’s Race. “What you guys did,” Stevens added

By Linda Chion

as Myers and Segui took to the stage, “is nothing short of amazing.”

To a standing ovation, it was revealed that Myers sealed the race with her check for charities totaling $62,020.73.

“Congratulations, Dawn,” Segui said, holding his check for $37,622.97, which he said was raised basically with two events, as he thanked his campaign committee for their efforts. “I’d like to thank everyone who supported us,” Segui added. “Not just me, us. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”

“Life is better when we’re all on the same team,” she said. “I hope that through this, this $100,000 is going to help our community in the way that it needs, and it needs so much more than just this.”

“Moving forward, let’s get this community, East Hillsborough County, back together because that is how strong we are.”

The Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce works year-round to raise funds for a Charity of Choice, which this year is Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter and Sanctuary. The chamber hosts a great teacher luncheon, donates school supplies and collects donations for the chamber’s high school senior scholarship program, for students entering a trade school.

For more on weekly and monthly networking meetings and events, visit the chamber at www.valricofishhawk.org. Call: 813-3247902. Email: info@valricofishhawk.org. The chamber’s Eastern Hillsborough County location is 15 minutes east of the I-75 and I-4 corridor, at 3115 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.

WINTER JAM 2025, CHRISTIAN MUSIC’S BIGGEST TOUR, RETURNS IN JANUARY

World Vision presents the Winter Jam 2025 Tour, founded by NewSong and produced by TPR (Transparent Productions), is returning to Tampa’s Yuengling Center on January 11, 2025, at 6 p.m. Christian music’s biggest tour will feature performances by Skillet, Anne Wilson, KB, Colton Dixon, NewSong, Micah Tyler and speaker Zane Black.

“We are looking forward to touring with dear friends and seeing everyone out on the road,” said Skillet’s John Cooper. “Let’s rock!”

“I am thrilled to be returning to Winter Jam in 2025 and I am so honored to be sharing the stage with Skillet,” added Anne Wilson. “I can’t wait to see what all God will do through this tour.”

“After the 2024 tour I wasn’t sure how we’d top it for 2025, but this lineup that came together might be the best we’ve ever had. I really feel like we have something for everyone this year,” said NewSong’s Eddie Carswell. “I’m excited to get back out on the road and see what God will do with this tour!”

“TPR is so excited to continue our longstanding partnership with NewSong and Winter Jam. This tour continues to be an amazing showcase of the best in Christian music, offering a little something for everyone,” said Dan Rauter, senior vice president of global touring for TPR. “We love that we can bring a powerful night of encouragement and hope to cities around the country and keep it affordable for everyone!”

No tickets are required to attend Winter Jam and admission is only a $15 donation at the door. Arrive early for the pre-jam party with SEU Worship, The Band Table and We Are Vessel.

Fans can join Jam Nation to access free and early admission, exclusive merchandise, artist Q&As and more; reserve your spot at https://jamtour.com/.

Winter Jam was founded over 20 years ago by Christian music group NewSong. The tour has stayed true to its original mission of low donations at the door to allow as many people as possible to hear the gospel. Winter Jam has consistently ranked in Pollstar’s top tours and has taken the number one spot several years. For more information, visit https://jamtour. com/.The Yuengling Center is located at 12499 USF Bull Run Dr. on the University of South Florida campus in Tampa.

Honorary mayor candidates David Segui, center left, and Dawn Myers hold giant checks of their fundraising totals.

Christian music’s biggest tour, Winter Jam, returns to the Yuengling Center featuring Skillet, Anne Wilson, Newsong and more in January 2025.

HOLIDAY MARKETS FOR GI S AND LIGHTS FOR FESTIVE NIGHTS

e Kittie Corral Holly Jolly Market

Kittie Corral presents its annual Holly Jolly Market, a free family event that you do not want to miss. There will be over 100 vendors bringing you everything for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and the New Year. You will also be able to get your ‘fairy hair’ done and meet the special guests, Santa and Mrs. Claus. It will take place on Saturday, November 16, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Lake Wimauma Convention Center, located at 5408 SR 674 in Wimauma. To help support Kittie Corral during the event, please bring new, unopened Fancy Feast wet cat food; new, unopened Blue Bu alo Wilderness Grain Free Dry Food; or any brand of unscented clumping cat litter to be entered into a drawing for a Wawa gift card.

Timely Treasures Arts & Crafts Fair

Avoid the crowded malls and support local artisans this holiday season. The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center is holding its Timely Treasures Arts & Crafts Fair on Saturday, November 30, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The premier event will host carefully selected vendors displaying a wide range of unique and handmade items created by talented local artists and crafts people. Browse through stunning artworks, unique jewelry, exquisite pottery and craftspeople working in mediums such as glass, paper, wood, textiles, soaps, candles and much more.

Jingle Bell Bazaar In Ybor City

Country Villa Estates Christmas Craft Fair

Country Villa Estates mobile home community, located at 1800 Amberwood Dr. in Riverview, o Bloomingdale Avenue, would like to invite everyone to its Christmas Craft Fair and Yard Sale on November 16 and 17, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Stop by the craft fair in the clubhouse, which will have a wide variety of holiday ideas, including gifts, jewelry, ornaments and all kinds of goodies. Next, drive around and check out the yard sale for any treasures.

Come and enjoy a free, fun, festive holiday event in Tampa’s historic Ybor City at the annual Jingle Bell Bazaar. The Jingle Bell Bazaar is Ybor City’s largest family holiday festival, featuring live music bands, entertainment performances, food trucks, face painting, balloon artists and holiday-themed shopping. Santa will be there, and children can get free photographs with him. The event takes place on Sunday, December 15, from 12-6 p.m. at Centennial Park, located at 1800 E. 8th Ave. in Tampa. Additional information can be found at the event’s website, visit it at www.jinglebellbazaar.com.

Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. Holiday Market

Cozy up with Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. at its holiday market on Sunday, December 15, from 12 Noon-4 p.m. Get into the festive spirit as you stroll through the market filled with local vendors o ering handmade treasures. Enjoy some craft beer, warm up with delicious hot chocolate topped with marshmallows and sample tasty food while you soak in the atmosphere. Whether shopping or just enjoying the vibe, there is something for everyone.

Festival Of Lights And Santa’s Village

Your hometown holiday festival returns in 2024 with more lights, new entertainment and the gift of family fun. From Thanksgiving Day until New Year’s Eve, Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights, located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover, will dazzle families with more than 1 million lights along its expanded 2-

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

mile drive, which includes the new Santa’s Winter Wonderland area. Santa’s Village is packed with holiday-themed rides, a market, craft stations, camel rides and more, providing endless fun.

Christmas Lane In Plant City

Christmas Lane is returning to Plant City. Over 2,000 volunteer hours have prepared this winter wonderland full of the magic of Christmas at every turn. With more than 1.5 million lights adorning over 200 Christmas trees that range from 4-40 feet tall, the displays are sure to delight. Make sure that you visit and write your letters to Santa, as well as decorate ornaments and have your face painted. There is also live entertainment on select nights. Christmas Lane is open 6-10 p.m. from Friday, November 29, through Tuesday, December 24, at the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds, located at 303 Berryfest Place in Plant City. Additional information can be found on its website at https://christmaslane.com/.

Busch Gardens Christmas Town

The holidays come to life at Busch Gardens

Christmas Town, the park’s award-winning holiday event. Celebrate the year with holiday cheer and create merry memories for the whole family during this seasonal event, which is included with park admission. Guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist, including millions of sparkling lights throughout the park to holiday shows and visits with Santa and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Busch Gardens Christmas Town runs daily now through January 5, 2025. Visit its website, https:// buschgardens.com/, for more information.

ioned holiday with its Victorian Christmas Stroll. Allowing visitors a glimpse into the magic of Christmas past, this holiday experience is a wonderful way to celebrate all the season has to o er with a variety of delightful themes and displays in each exhibit room. Decorations include visitor favorites from past years as well as new marvels that are sure to amaze. The Victorian Christmas Stroll will be available at the Henry B. Plant Museum, located at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa, from Saturday, November 23, through Tuesday, December 31, 10 a.m.5 p.m. daily. Its website, www.plantmuseum. com, has more information.

Tampa-area Lighted Holiday Boat Parades

Church Street Christmas

Come celebrate the spirit of Christmas and enjoy the sights and sounds of this magical season at Church Street Christmas. All are invited to experience this free annual holiday event along Dade City’s historic Church Avenue, where carolers, choirs, dancers and musicians perform along luminary-lit sidewalks and brilliantly decorated homes. The street closes to vehicular tra c from Saturday through Monday, December 21-23, 7-9 p.m. For more information, visit its website at www.churchstreetchristmas.org.

Christmas In e

Wild At ZooTampa

It’s the most wonderful time of the year at ZooTampa with the return of Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delectable holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures. This year is bigger, better and brighter than ever with entertainment that the whole family can enjoy, including festive realms, holiday shows and a visit with Santa. Christmas in the Wild runs on selective nights November through December. Visit https://zootampa.org/ for more information.

Santa Fest Christmas Parade And Tree Lighting

Be part of Tampa’s holiday tradition when Santa Fest returns to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park again this year. It will open on Saturday, December 7, following the popular parade through downtown Tampa. The parade route steps o at 1:30 p.m. and begins at Morgan Street, travels west on Madison Street to Ashley Drive, turns north and ends at Ashley Drive and Cass Street. After the parade, enjoy the activities and entertainment in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and stay for the tree lighting at 6 p.m.

A Victorian Christmas Stroll

The Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa celebrates the warmth and spirit of an old-fash-

The annual Apollo Beach Lighted Boat Parade takes place on Saturday, December 14. It will leave the south channel at 6 p.m. and proceed toward Lands End Marina before winding around Lake Sunrise Basin, back out around Bal Harbour, then up Flamingo Canal before returning and going around Dolphin House at the end of Gran Kaymen Way and finally going up the canal leading to Symphony Isles. Come and meet the members of the Tampa Sailing Squadron before the parade at its clubhouse, located at 1250 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach.

The Alafia Lighted Boat Parade is always very popular with local residents. It will take place along the Alafia River from the Riverview Civic Center to River’s Edge Bar and Grill on Saturday, December 7, from 4-7 p.m.

Country Christmas At Cracker Country

Celtic Christmas Celebration

This presentation will surely put you and your family in the ultimate Christmas spirit and point your heart to the true reason for the season as we celebrate the birth of our savior — Jesus Christ. There are two performances, featuring the cast, choir and orchestra of First Baptist Church of Brandon, on Saturday and Sunday, December 7-8 (deaf interpretation provided December 8), with the performances starting at 6 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The performances are approximately 90 minutes in length. First Baptist Brandon is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Visit www.fbcbrandon.org for more information about the church and its services.

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Parade of Lights will do on Saturday, December 14. The Greater Brandon and Valrico/Fishhawk chambers of commerce felt it was time to bring a large-scale holiday event to the community. The parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. and run the length of Oakfield Drive, heading west from Parsons Avenue to Lakewood Drive. To find out more about the event, visit https://brandonparadeoflights. com/ or check out the Brandon Parade of Lights Facebook page.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Ser-

vice

At First Baptist Church

Of Brandon

Bring the family for a great day of experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of an old-fashioned country Christmas on Saturday, December 14, at Cracker Country. Learn how the traditions of the 19th century di er from those of the 21st through hands-on crafts, holiday activities, historical interpretations, carols, decorations and more as you stroll through the site and visit the 13 original buildings. Cracker Country is located at the Florida State Fairgrounds at 4800 U.S. 301 N. in Tampa. Visit its website for more information and to purchase tickets at www.crackercountry.org/ events/christmas. Advanced ticket purchase is required.

Brandon Parade Of Lights

Christmas is a time of bringing people together, and that is exactly what the Brandon

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Gather your friends and family and join First Baptist Church of Brandon for its Sunday Evening Candlelight Service. This is a onehour experience designed to be enjoyed as a family. Child care will be o ered for nursery and preschool age, but all other ages will enjoy music, a message and singing Christmas Carols together in the sanctuary. The program will begin at 5 p.m., with a musical prelude at 4:30 p.m. First Baptist Church Brandon is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Visit www.fbcbrandon. org for more information about the church and its services.

Lakeland Christmas Parade

Hosted by the Junior League of Greater Lakeland and the City of Lakeland, the Lakeland Christmas Parade will be held on Thursday, December 5, starting at 7 p.m. Participants step o from the RP Funding Center to begin the 1.25-mile course winding through the city’s streets, around Lake Mirror and back down Lemon Street. The floats are decked out to reflect this year’s theme of ‘Christmas at Swan Lake.’ The best, of course, is saved for last, as the parade wraps up with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

STOWERS ELEMENTARY CELEBRATES SUNSHADE INSTALL WITH EVENT

Thanks to the village it takes to raise and educate children at Stowers Elementary School in Lithia, the students have sunshades on their playground to protect them from the sun’s burning rays.

Through last year’s Cattle Drive, the name given to the school’s annual fundraiser, enough funds were raised to purchase and install two sunshades to over the school’s playground, for which a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on October 20 at the school in Lithia, located at 13915 Barrington Stowers Dr.

“We raised just under $62,000,” said Maggie Goldenberg, ways and means chair for the Stowers Parent Teacher Association (PTA), which, along with some funds from the PTA’s legacy fund, covered the cost and installation. “The playground was already there, but we needed shade from the sun,” said Goldenberg, noting as well the leadership of 2023-24 PTA President Jacky Seal. “It gets hot in Florida, and the kids were complaining that it would burn them when they touched the playground equipment. Also, skin cancer is on the rise, and these are little kids outside and being exposed to UV rays.”

Haley Topp, PTA coordinator for last year’s Cattle Drive, said she is thankful for the community’s concern and support.

“It obviously was important to everyone that our students be protected, and that the kids be in the shade for even the small amount of time they’re outside for recess,” Topp said.

After a three-week fundraising effort,

By Linda Chion

PTA members and school officials hosted the celebratory Cattle Drive Fun Run, which celebrated the community-wide effort to support the playground shades. In assistance were Newsome High School cheerleaders and track team athletes.

Any Stowers student who raised at least $250 got to throw a pie at the face of Stowers Principal Melanie Cochrane. According to Topp, 45-50 students had the honor, including the top 10 student fundraisers who got to take a party bus ride to lunch at the Texas Roadhouse in Riverview.

Another 117 students, for raising at least $150 each, got to eat pancakes with Cochrane and Assistant Principal Fasee Sollars. Overall, “we had more than 553 students who contributed to the Cattle Drive last year, and I believe that was out of roughly 850 to 900 students, which is a very large participation,” Topp said.

Brag tags, sweat towels, water bottles and the family’s name on the school marquee were among the incentive prizes.

Participating also were area businesses, which according to Goldenberg included title sponsors Conde Dermatology, Next Wave Investors, High 5 Inc., TNT Termite & Pest Control, Canarie Clean Fragrance Co. and Kamish & Associates CPA Firm.

“It takes a community to come together to raise as much money and support as we did,” Topp said. Next up, Goldenberg said, is this year’s Cattle Drive, which aims “to raise $65,000 for a walking track and flexible seating for our school.”

LOCAL STUDENT SURVIVOR BRINGS AWARENESS TO PEDIATRIC CANCER

Fifth grader Alyza Finstein attends Valrico Academy. She likes county music and hates celery. She likes to draw and does taekwondo. Like every 10-year-old, she doesn’t like her chores. Her least favorite chore is cleaning up after her dog in her yard.

Alyza is vibrant and very strong. Alyza has cancer. She was diagnosed with brain cancer when she was 5.

By Jane Owen

Hospital. Pinecrest Elementary School’s WINGS (Worthy Individuals Navigating Growth) program hosted Carlie Nicholson from the Children’s Cancer Center in Tampa.

Alyza loved Newsome’s game but was disappointed that the game ended early because of lightning. She was nervous to talk to other fifth graders at Pinecrest Elementary. She was there with her 5-year-old friend

An estimated 14,910 children were diagnosed with cancer so far in 2024. It’s a harsh reality.

September is Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month. Several of our local schools took part in Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, and Alyza was at their events.

Newsome High School hosted ‘Going Gold’ at its September 27 football game. Newsome has a 1Voice Foundation club in support of pediatric cancer awareness. Valrico Academy held a spirit day on October 4 (delayed because of the hurricane). It raised $300 and brought in 80 toys for the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Clinic at St. Joseph’s Children’s

Leo, who has medulloblastoma cancer. Alyza was grateful her school, Valrico Academy, did all that it had. She loves our community support.

“What I want to share about my feelings for cancer is that when you get the news that someone is going through that tough time, you can let them know that they can be strong, brave and never give up,” said Alyza.

Alyza and Leo’s moms, Jayme and Caroline, respectively, are grateful for events that recognize pediatric cancer. They met through Brandon’s 1Voice Foundation and appreciate the support.

For more information about the 1Voice Foundation, please visit https://1voicefoundation.org/.

Valrico Academy supporting fellow student Alyza Finstein.

Alyza Finstein and Leo with students at Pinecrest Elementary.

LOCALSHOP

GET THE DIRT:

RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY RESIDENTS

BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT

You may not know that the University of Florida (UF) has an extensive number of publications that can provide answers to your questions regarding horticulture, agriculture, family and consumer sciences and 4-H. As an extension agent in environmental horticulture focusing on Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, that is the focus of this article.

ed by tree roots and very wet or dry locations. The plant list includes North, Central and South Florida and turf; small trees under 30 feet; palms/ cycads; shrubs; plants; ornamental grasses; ferns; groundcovers colorful annuals; and perennials and assorted houseplants.

HURRICANE-PROOFING YOUR ESTATE PLAN: SAFEGUARDING YOUR FUTURE

By Laurie E. Ohall, Florida Board-certi ed Elder Law Attorney

Living in the Tampa Bay area, we’re no strangers to the threat of hurricanes. While we often focus on protecting our homes and physical belongings, it’s equally important to safeguard our estate plans. After all, these crucial documents are meant to help in catastrophic situations — but what happens if no one can find them? Let’s explore some strategies to hurricane-proof your estate plan.

The Florida Factor: Why It Matters

I selected my four favorite publications to share with you and summarize the contents. They are “Central Florida Gardening Calendar,” “Landscaping in Florida Shade,” “Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide” and “Edible Landscaping Using the Nine Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Principles.”

“Central Florida Gardening Calendar” is a month-by-month guide that provides information on what to plant (annuals/ bedding plants, bulbs, herbs, vegetables) and what to do (trees, shrubs, bulbs, lawns, flowering plants, pests fertilizer, irrigation). It also includes what to do every month, such as adjusting irrigation based on rainfall and restrictions; pruning o dead blossoms and seeds to encourage new flowers; monitoring plants for early signs of insects and disease; planting trees, shrubs and flowering annuals/ perennials; and watering until established.

“Landscaping in Florida Shade” provides the preferences of many shade-tolerant plants, such as four or less hours of full sun, all-day dappled shade, high shade and shifting shade. Di cult shade areas include dense and dark areas with no sun, in the shade of buildings, places dominat-

“Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide” lists the steps involved in vegetable gardening. The site should be near the house, be on a well-drained site with a close source of water and have at least six hours of sunlight each day. Create a garden plan before you plant and create a list of supplies, including plants. There is a detailed planting guide for Florida vegetables that covers North, Central and South Florida.

“Edible Landscaping Using the Nine Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Principles” provides detailed information and links to University of Florida publications that make your edible landscape much easier to create and manage. The principles and one of the many tips per principle include: right plant, right place; water e ciently; fertilize appropriately; mulch; attract wildlife; manage yard pests responsibly; recycle yard waste; reduce stormwater runo ; and protect the waterfront.

If you are looking for a garden stroll, please consider our Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden in the courtyard of our o ce at Hillsborough County Extension, located at 5339 County Rd. 579 in Se ner. This garden is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Here in Florida, especially along the Gulf Coast, the risk of flooding and severe property damage is a constant concern. Your estate plan documents are supposed to provide guidance and protection in worst-case scenarios, but they can’t do their job if they’re lost or destroyed in a storm. That’s why clients often ask how to safely store these important papers.

Strategies for Secure Storage

1. Waterproof and Fireproof Safe

Invest in a high-quality safe that’s both waterproof and fireproof. Keep your original documents here, along with other important papers, like birth certificates and insurance policies. Make sure the safe is securely anchored to prevent it from floating away in case of flooding.

2. Digital Backups

Scan all your estate planning documents and store digital copies in multiple secure locations. Consider using encrypted cloud storage services for added protection. Remember to update these digital copies whenever you make changes to your estate plan.

3. Safe Deposit Box

While not completely hurricane-proof, a bank’s safe deposit box can o er an additional layer of protection. However, be

aware that access might be restricted immediately after a disaster, so don’t rely on this as your only storage method.

4. Inform Your Executor and Loved Ones

Make sure your executor and close family members know where to find your documents. Provide them with copies or access information for digital backups. This ensures that even if your original documents are lost, your wishes can still be carried out.

5. Out-of-state Storage

Consider sending copies of your documents to a trusted friend or family member who lives in a di erent state. This provides a backup far from any local disasters.

6. Regular Reviews and Updates

Set a schedule to review your estate plan regularly, perhaps annually or after any major life changes. This not only ensures your plan stays current but also gives you a chance to check on the condition and accessibility of your documents.

Don’t Wait Until the Storm Is Coming

The time to prepare your estate plan for potential disasters is now, not when a hurricane is bearing down on Tampa Bay. By taking steps to protect these crucial documents, you’re ensuring that your wishes will be respected and your loved ones will be cared for, no matter what Mother Nature throws our way.

Call us at 813-438-8503 to schedule a consultation and ensure your estate plan is as sturdy as your storm shutters.

Laurie Ohall is a Florida board-certi ed elder law attorney practicing in Brandon, Florida. She has been practicing law for 30 years and her practice is focused on estate planning, elder law planning and probate. Ohall is licensed to practice law in Florida and Ohio.

LIONS CLUB SELLS LUMINARIA KITS TO SUPPORT LOCAL CHARITIES

Local residents have the opportunity to help others and spread light next month thanks to the Brandon Lions Club and its annual luminaria project and fundraiser. Each year, the Brandon Lions Club conducts its luminaria fundraising project providing luminaria kits to neighborhoods and individuals throughout the Greater Brandon area.

Until Monday, November 11, residents throughout the area can purchase a luminaria kit to raise funds for local charities supported by the Lions.

“Our luminaria kits are constructed with white paper bags weighted down with sand and illuminated from within by a candle,” said Brandon Lions Club treasurer Joe Kuebler. “They are traditionally displayed on Christmas Eve.”

Each kit contains 15 long-burning votive candles, 15 candle holders, 15 white bags and a plastic bag of sand (to use in the base of each bag).

Kits are only $8 each. Orders (of over 15 kits) can be delivered to your neighborhood or picked up at the Brandon Lions’ club-

Staff Report

house, located at 610 Limona Rd. in Brandon — both on Saturday, December 21. All orders are COD (cash on delivery).

According to Kuebler, the fundraiser has been taking place annually since 2002. For the last several years, the homeowners association in Parkside Village in Lithia has purchased enough luminaria kits to light a path through the community on Christmas Eve.

“This has become a favorite community tradition,” said homeowners association board member Marie Gilmore.

The proceeds will benefit Brandon Lions Charities, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that has been supporting the club’s local eyesight and hearing programs, Dogs Inc. (formerly Southeastern Guide Dogs), ECHO, Family Promise, Brandon High School Don Bishop Track Meet and and more since 1954.

You may contact Kuebler at 813-2632522 to place your order or email the club at brandonlionsclub@gmail.com. No payment is required with your order.

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

Hurricane Relief

When disaster strikes, Rotary is here to help. Hurricane recovery efforts are well underway with Rotary Clubs answering the call in their communities and beyond. Rotary District 6890, which includes Rotary Clubs in Hillsborough, Hardee, Highlands and Polk counties, is working in partnership with Crisis Cleanup and Disaster Aid USA to aid those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In addition, a special disaster fund has been set up for those in Florida. To donate to Rotary’s efforts all over the state of Florida or to volunteer, visit www.rotaryfl.org. Students can earn service hours, but they must be accompanied by a parent if under the age of 18 (only their parents need to register through the website). Rotary’s members are people of action ready to serve. Why not serve with it?

E-Club of Tampa South

Veterans are invited to join the Rotary E-Club of Tampa South on Monday, November 11, from 7-9 a.m. at Einstein Bros. Bagels, located at 660 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. The club will be ‘Honoring Our Heroes’ with bagel sandwiches and refreshments. For more information, contact Rotarian Malikita Harrison at 813-270-0620. You are also welcome to join the club via Zoom on the first and third Tuesdays of each month from 7-8 p.m. Zoom Meeting ID: https://zoom.us/j/7328811760. For information, contact Duane Williams at dsigma79@aol.com or 813-541-6202.

FishHawk-Riverview Rotary

The FishHawk/Riverview Rotary Club and Chris Ligori & Associates invite you

to the 40th annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, December 7, from 4-7 p.m. at the Riverview Civic Center, located at 11020 Park Dr. in Riverview, with a party afterwards at River’s Edge Bar & Grill, located at 6226 Ohio Ave. in Gibsonton. Visit www.alafiaboatparade.com for details. You can also join the club on Mondays from 12 Noon-1 p.m. at JF Kicks, located at 3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, or on Thursdays from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Shrimp Boat, located at 1020 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Contact Betty Huth at betty@hbphoto.com.

Brandon ’86

The Brandon ’86 Rotary Club hosted a ‘Pints for Polio’ event on October 24 at Bootlegger’s Brewery to raise funds for the eradication of polio on World Polio Day. Thank you, Bootlegger’s, and all those who attended or donated. The Brandon ’86 Rotary Club meets on Fridays from 8-9 a.m. at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Chad Norgard at chad@norgardinsgrp. com.

The Rotary Club of Brandon

The Rotary Club of Brandon meets on Tuesdays from 12 Noon-1 p.m. at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Contact Debbie Meegan at debbiemeeganrotary@gmail.com.

Brandon Global Eco Rotary

Brandon Global Eco Rotary meets via Zoom on the second and fourth Mondays of each month from 12 Noon-1 p.m. Contact Katie Tyson at katietyson@icloud.com. Staff Report

Rotarians pitched in to help clean up a home and property that flooded near the Alafia River.

Compiled

by

Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

South Bay Genealogical Society

Meeting The December meeting of the South Bay Genealogical Society will take place at the Life Enrichment Center, located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center, on Tuesday, December 17, starting at 10:30 a.m. with a roundtable discussion, followed by a sit-down luncheon and guest speaker. Drew Smith will present ‘Collaborative Trees: Making Them Work for You.’ The cost is $18 per person for the meal and presentation. Please call Vicki at 360-608-1647 to make a reservation and for more information. Checks must be received by Thursday, December 5.

“One of our biggest supporters is Publix Super Markets Charities,” said director Tom Bullaro. “We recently received a message from John Doran, executive director of Publix Charities, that they would be sending a check for $3,000 for purchase of a scale and computer for pallet weighing. We are so appreciative of this gift.”

As Our Lady’s Pantry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, it must comply with many regulations, one of which requires that donations received from supermarkets are weighed. Visit www.ourladyspantry. com to find out more and learn how you can help.

Fall Festival At St. John e Divine

Episcopal Church

St. John the Divine Episcopal Church at 1015 E. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center is holding its Fall Festival on Saturday, November 23, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Come out and enjoy a bake sale, Christmas crafts, book sale, toys and games, ra e baskets, attic treasures and more. Free child care will be provided while you shop, and free gift wrap is also available for your purchases.

Free Tickets From e Florida Orchestra

STATE ATTORNEY’S OFFICE SHARES HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME SAFE FROM PROPERTY FRAUD

By State Attorney Suzy Lopez

Publix Charities Supports Our Lady’s Pantry

By this December, Our Lady’s Pantry will have been fighting hunger in the community for 25 years. The support of countless individuals and organizations has helped make that milestone possible.

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative has partnered with The Florida Orchestra to offer free vouchers for library customers to see a select concert at a variety of venues for The Florida Orchestra’s 2024-25 season. The ticket vouchers are limited to two per person and will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more information, visit https://hcplc.org/locations.

For most of us, owning a home means achieving the American dream. Unfortunately, title property fraud is on the rise, and it could leave you and your family fighting for your home. Title property fraud is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the United States, but there are simple ways to ensure your largest asset is safe from criminals.

Fraudsters will generally look for homes that are abandoned or under renovation where homeowners are not always present. These criminals will then file what is called a quitclaim deed, forging the owner’s signature and transferring the property to themselves.

A quitclaim deed can be filed in the Hillsborough County Clerk’s O ce and is generally used to transfer a home to a family member. Criminals have instead used quitclaim deeds to discreetly put their names on homes that don’t belong to them. So, what can you do to prevent this from happening?

You can sign up for the Property Fraud Alert System o ered by the Hillsborough County clerk of courts. It will notify a homeowner within 48 hours if a document has been filed involving their name and property’s address. In fact, this system is what saved Larry and Dreama Bilby’s home earlier this year.

Larry noticed someone scoping out the property through security cameras while he and his wife were making renovations to their Tampa home. Then, he

received an alert from the clerk’s o ce that a quitclaim deed was filed by a woman named Michelle Cherry. Cherry had not only put the home into her name, but she even changed her driver’s license to reflect that she lived at the Bilbys’ address. My o ce is committed to holding fraudsters like Cherry accountable. She is now facing over 275 years in prison if convicted of the charges we have filed against her. What can you do to help deter criminals? Signing up for our county’s alert system can allow you to respond quickly if fraud occurs. Installing security cameras or automatic lights can deter criminals from targeting your property, as will assisting law enforcement in gathering evidence if a crime occurs. Get to know your neighbors and become involved with your neighborhood watch program.

If you are interested in signing up for the clerk’s Property Fraud Alert System, call 800-728-3858 or visit the website at www.hillsclerk.com.

e State Attorney’s O ce of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace and Plant City. e o ce sta consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates and support sta . e o ce handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.”

• FILLERS

• SALT FACIAL

• CHEMICAL PEELS

• SCULPTRA

• NON-SURGICAL FACELIFTS

• BHRT HORMONE REPLACEMENT

• MEDICAL WEIGHTLOSS INJECTIONS

• LASER HAIR REDUCTION

State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

Receive a $500 credit for doctor copays and more

Receive a $500 credit for doctor copays and more

Receive a $500 credit for doctor copays and more

You’ve got your whole life ahead of you, and we’re here to help you make the most of it with an AARP® Medicare Advantage CareFlex plan from UnitedHealthcare. It’s a Medicare Advantage plan that includes the reliable coverage you need, plus quarterly credits to help you pay for out-of-pocket health care costs. So, you can spend a less time budgeting and more time living.

You’ve got your whole life ahead of you, and we’re here to help you make the most of it with an AARP® Medicare Advantage CareFlex plan from UnitedHealthcare. It’s a Medicare Advantage plan that includes the reliable coverage you need, plus quarterly credits to help you pay for out-of-pocket health care costs. So, you can spend a less time budgeting and more time living.

You’ve got your whole life ahead of you, and we’re here to help you make the most of it with an AARP® Medicare Advantage CareFlex plan from UnitedHealthcare. It’s a Medicare Advantage plan that includes the reliable coverage you need, plus quarterly credits to help you pay for out-of-pocket health care costs. So, you can spend a less time budgeting and more time living.

Let’s connect today

1-844-236-3281, TTY 711

Let’s connect today

Let’s connect today

1-844-236-3281, TTY 711

1-844-236-3281, TTY 711

8 a.m. – 8 p.m. local time, 7 days a week ShopUHC.com

8 a.m. – 8 p.m. local time, 7 days a week ShopUHC.com

8 a.m. – 8 p.m. local time, 7 days a week ShopUHC.com

AARP® Medicare Advantage CareFlex from UHC FL-34 (HMOPOS) provides members a quarterly credit that can pay for a variety of out-of-pocket costs on Medicare-covered services, including:

AARP® Medicare Advantage CareFlex from UHC FL-34 (HMOPOS) provides members a quarterly credit that can pay for a variety of out-of-pocket costs on Medicare-covered services, including:

• Primary care, specialist and urgent care copays

• Primary care, specialist and urgent care copays

AARP® Medicare Advantage CareFlex from UHC FL-34 (HMOPOS) provides members a quarterly credit that can pay for a variety of out-of-pocket costs on Medicare-covered services, including:

• Physical, speech or occupational therapists

• Physical, speech or occupational therapists

• Emergency room

• Primary care, specialist and urgent care copays

• Emergency room

• Hospital stays

• Physical, speech or occupational therapists

• Hospital stays

• Emergency room

• Hospital stays

• Prescribed medical devices and supplies (Durable Medical Equipment)

• Prescribed medical devices and supplies (Durable Medical Equipment)

• Prescribed medical devices and supplies (Durable Medical Equipment)

Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. You do not need to be an AARP member to enroll. AARP encourages you to consider your needs when selecting products and does not make specific product recommendations for individuals. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, producers or brokers. Benefits, features and/or devices may vary by plan/area. Limitations, exclusions and/or network restrictions may apply. CareFlex benefit credits can only be used by members of AARP Medicare Advantage CareFlex plans for cost-shares for certain Medicare Parts A and B covered items and services. CareFlex credits are loaded on a Visa debit card. Unused credits will rollover each quarter and expire on December 31st. Credits not redeemable for cash.

©2024 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Y0066_240905_020556_M 25SPRJ84765_H1045-059-000

Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. You do not need to be an AARP member to enroll. AARP encourages you to consider your needs when selecting products and does not make specific product recommendations for individuals. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, producers or brokers. Benefits, features and/or devices may vary by plan/area. Limitations, exclusions and/or network restrictions may apply. CareFlex benefit credits can only be used by members of AARP Medicare Advantage CareFlex plans for cost-shares for certain Medicare Parts A and B covered items and services. CareFlex credits are loaded on a Visa debit card. Unused credits will rollover each quarter and expire on December 31st. Credits not redeemable for cash.

©2024 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Y0066_240905_020556_M

Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. You do not need to be an AARP member to enroll. AARP encourages you to consider your needs when selecting products and does not make specific product recommendations for individuals. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, producers or brokers. Benefits, features and/or devices may vary by plan/area. Limitations, exclusions and/or network restrictions may apply. CareFlex benefit credits can only be used by members of AARP Medicare Advantage CareFlex plans for cost-shares for certain Medicare Parts A and B covered items and services. CareFlex credits are loaded on a Visa debit card. Unused credits will rollover each quarter and expire on December 31st. Credits not redeemable for cash.

25SPRJ84765_H1045-059-000

©2024 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Y0066_240905_020556_M

BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY AND NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION JOIN FORCES TO CELEBRATE VETERANS DAY

This Veterans Day, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is proud to partner with Navy Federal Credit Union to honor the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Starting Friday, November 8, and running through Monday, November 11, the park will be hosting special events to recognize veterans for their service, including a live band and a special recording of the national anthem, which will accompany the raising of the American flag along with the flags representing all branches of the military.

From Friday, November 8, through Monday, November 11, Busch Gardens will be hosting special events to recognize veterans for their service.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with Navy Federal Credit Union and extend this offer to veterans, recognizing their unwavering dedication and sacrifices,” said Byron Surrett, chief parks officer of United Parks & Resorts, parent company of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “We invite both veterans and active-duty service members to create countless unforgettable experiences with their families here at Busch Gardens.”

Thanks to Navy Federal Credit Union, veterans visiting the park during the Veterans Day weekend will also receive special benefits, including a priority entry lane, in-park activations and special preshow welcome messages at select shows throughout the park.

Staff Report

“It’s an absolute honor to serve those who serve, and to sponsor an event dedicated to our veterans,” said Captain Keith Hoskins (U.S. Navy, retired), executive vice president of branch operations at Navy Federal. “This event fits our core value at Navy Federal Credit Union of supporting our military members and their families.”

This year, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is also extending the Military Annual Pass to include veterans as well as active-duty military for a limited time. Previously, the Military Annual Pass offer was only available to active-duty military. Now, veterans who purchase a Military Annual Pass will enjoy unlimited admission with no blackout dates and free parking through the end of 2025.

Veterans and active-duty United States Armed Forces personnel can purchase a Military Annual Pass online at https://wavesofhonor.com/ or at select military bases. Complementary single-day admission is also available to active-duty military along with discounted admission for their family members. This offer is not available at the park for purchase; please visit https://wavesofhonor.com/ for complete details.

FLORIDA BLUE, TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING HOST TEENS TO STRIKE STIGMA OF MENTAL WELL-BEING

Florida Blue and the Tampa Bay Lightning held their third annual ‘Strike the Stigma for Teens’ event at AMALIE Arena on October 4. The event was a one-day symposium that engages area youth and teachers, providing students with the tools and resources to help them flourish, including therapy dogs, ponies, engaging activities and more.

More than 350 students from high schools in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties participated and had the opportunity to become teen Mental Health First Aiders.

WWE Global Ambassador Titus O’Neil served as the morning’s keynote speaker. Strike the Stigma is a multiyear initiative created in partnership with Florida Blue and Vinik Sports Group to leverage the sport of hockey to provide education and awareness around mental well-being and to help break the stigma. The goal is to provide solutions that can be utilized to achieve positive, sustainable results on the overall mental well-being of the Tampa Bay community.

“The Tampa Bay Lightning believes that taking care of one’s mental health is just as important as taking care of one’s physical health,” states the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Strike the Stigma webpage. “We are honored to use our platform of the great sport of hockey to amplify the conversation around mental health and to help

break the stigma around asking for help. It is important that our community knows that there are resources available if you or someone you know is struggling.”

Participating high schools included: Tampa Bay Tech High School, Lennard High School, Sickles High School, Armwood High School, Plant City High School, Fivay High School (Pasco County), Zephyrhills High School (Pasco County), Palm Harbor University High School (Pinellas County), Seminole High School (Pinellas County) and Richard O. Jacobson High School (Pinellas County) and Sumner High School.

Key Facts:

• High school students with depression are more than two times more likely to drop out than their peers.

• Increases in the percentage of students who were bullied at school (15 percent to 19 percent), per the CDC.

• Increases in the percentage of students who missed school because of safety concerns either at school or on the way to school (9 percent to 13 percent), per the CDC.

• 64.2 percent of Floridians ages 12-17 who have depression did not receive any care in 2022.

To learn more about Strike the Stigma, visit www.nhl.com/lightning/community/ strike-the-stigma.

local organizations, including ECHO of Brandon, Inc., High 5, Inc., and the Brandon Rotary Club Charity Fund Inc. -Dawn Myers

Photo courtesy of Michael Lawrence, Enterprise Comms. WWE Global Ambassador Titus O’Neil speaking at the Strike the Stigma symposium.

WHY CHOOSE US?

“Freedom

CarePatrol Offers Senior Living Placement Expertise

Sarah Baez is a senior living placement specialist and owns CarePatrol of SouthShore. CarePatrol helps seniors and their families find the care and resources they need to make their transition into independent living, assisted living, memory care or home health services seamless. It partners with many facets of this arena and will guide you through this overwhelming process for no cost at all. Every senior care home CarePatrol recommends is prescreened, and it o ers support and check-in after the move to ensure that your loved one’s needs are being met. Due to the nature of the clients, Baez will meet them wherever they are comfortable meeting. To make an appointment call 941 586 3033 or visit CarePatrol’s website at www.carepatrol.com/southshore.

Freedom Plaza

Donates To Sun City Center Community Assoc. Freedom Plaza, a vibrant Life Care community in Sun City Center, is proud to announce its recent donation to the Sun City Center Community Association. This contribution is dedicated to the ‘Community Association’s Future Facilities Fund’ and will support the development of phase 1b of its master plan. The Community Association is a self-governed and self-supported organization established to operate and maintain recreational facilities, other

than golf courses, for the local community. Freedom Plaza took the opportunity to support the Community Association by sponsoring a few fun events leading up to the holidays. This generous donation reflects Freedom Plaza’s ongoing commitment to the future of Sun City Center.

The Florida Orchestra Welcomes Audiences Back

In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, The Florida Orchestra (TFO) welcomes you back to performances this season.

“In the face of two hurricanes in two weeks, we have been inspired by the power of community,” said TFO President and CEO Ignacio Barrón Viela.

“The Florida Orchestra is more committed than ever to welcoming you back

to joyful concerts. We are determined to serve you with the extraordinary gift of live music — to bring us together, to support each other and to offer a haven of peace and hope when you need it most.”

Young people ages 5-18 can get in for free to all Masterworks concerts with a paying adult, thanks in part to the generous support of an anonymous donor. This is available only in advance through TFO’s ticket center. Restrictions apply. For more information and tickets, call 727-892-3337 or visit https://floridaorchestra.org/.

Andrea Bocelli Coming To AMELIE Arena

Iconic Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli recently announced his new 2025 North American tour dates with a stop at Tampa’s AMALIE Arena on February 13, 2024, at 8 p.m. All shows will be conducted by Maestro Steven Mercurio. This evening of soaring arias, crossover hits and famed love songs in honor of Valentine’s season is presented by the Straz Center and features members of the Opera Tampa Chorus.

As one of the most recognizable voices in the entertainment industry who is revered by fans internationally, Bocelli has been entertaining audiences for 30 years, counting nearly 90 million records sold worldwide.

Tickets for this event are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices are $81, $131, $191, $271 and $361.

Sarah Baez is a senior living placement specialist and the owner of CarePatrol of SouthShore.

EYE ON BUSINESS...CONTINUED

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Prices are subject to change without notice. Prices do not include facility fee or service charges. Advanced parking passes are available at www.parkwhiz. com. Visit www.amaliearena.com or call 813-301-2500 for more information.

Jo Koy Tour Coming To Tampa

Comedian Jo Koy announced his allnew Jo Koy: Just Being Koy Tour that will include a stop at Tampa’s AMALIE Arena on February 16, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are now on sale.

“I never take for granted that I get to live out my dream on the stage every week and this new tour is something special that I can’t what to share with everyone,” said Koy.

jokoy.com/. Visit www.amaliearena. com or call 813301-2500 for ticket information.

Hillsborough County Public Schools Receives Credit Rating Upgrade

Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is proud to announce that Fitch Ratings has upgraded the district’s credit rating from A to A+. This significant upgrade is a testament to the district’s continued fiscal responsibility and financial stability.

As one of today’s premiere stand-up comedians, Koy has come a long way from his modest beginnings performing in a Las Vegas coffee house. Koy’s uniquely relatable comedy pulls inspiration from his colorful family and has reached all kinds of people and been translated into sold-out arenas around the world.

For more information on his comedy, book and tour dates, please visit https://

The improved rating reflects HCPS’ strong financial position following years of diligent budgetary management and strategic planning. In recent years, the district has successfully stabilized its finances, addressed previous budget deficits and built a strong reserve. The upgrade also recognizes the district’s ability to manage operational costs while continuing to invest in critical academic programs and services for its nearly 220,000 students.

Hillsborough County Public Schools will continue to work diligently to maintain its financial health and ensure that every decision made prioritizes the needs of students and the overall community.

Additional information on Fitch Ratings can be found at www.fitchratings. com.

REGALITEA INTRODUCES FLAVORFUL TEAS AND EDUCATIONAL CLASSES TO THE COMMUNITY

Regalitea is a local tea company. The company is owned by Dylan Chadwell and was created because of his long and passionate journey for the perfect tea.

“My love for loose-leaf tea began at a young age, sparked by frequent visits to a local tea shop with my mother,” Chadwell said. “I still recall the enchanting experience of discovering something that is cherished across many cultures. The aromas, colors and flavors captivated me, so I set a personal goal to one day work in a place that embodied this magic.”

As Chadwell grew older, his passion for tea only deepened.

“I eventually began working at the very shop that had inspired me,” Chadwell said. “There, I immersed myself in every aspect of tea, from the intricate processes behind its production to the regions it originates from. The more I learned, the more fascinated I became. With this growing knowledge came new opportunities, and I decided to carve out my own path by starting my own tea company.”

Like any venture, Chadwell’s first attempt had its challenges, but those early lessons allowed him to build a vast library of flavors and ideas.

“One winter, while selling my tea at a local market, I was approached by a couple opening their own tea shop,” Chadwell said. “They invited me to join as their mixologist, offering me the creative freedom to expand my expertise even further. I

By Libby Hopkins

embraced the opportunity, eager to continue refining my craft.”

All of Regalitea’s tea blends are handcrafted in small batches using Chadwell’s own recipes.

“I don’t just buy and resell other tea blends, I create them from scratch,” Chadwell said.

Chadwell also offers tea-blending classes at various venues in the Brandon and Tampa area.

“My tea-blending classes give the opportunity to see the behind the scenes with tea blending and creating your own recipes,” Chadwell said. “The classes are a great way to gain some knowledge about tea in general and then dive deeper into the health benefits and lore. I find that most people have a favorite blend but would change something about it if they could. These classes allow you to create something that is truly geared towards your taste and preference.”

Keeping things local is very important to Chadwell. His teas can be found at the White Oak Cottage in Lithia and Ybor Coffee and Tea Co. in Ybor. Chadwell is also one of the regular vendors at the Ybor City Saturday Market.

“I truly believe small businesses are the backbone of our community,” Chadwell said. “My favorite moment being in business is seeing the smile my tea puts on my friends and family’s faces.”

If you would like to learn more about Regalitea, you can visit Chadwell’s website at www.regalitea.com.

Dylan Chadwell is the owner of Regalitea. You can find Regalitea at the White Oak Cottage in Lithia and Ybor Coffee and Tea Co. in Ybor.

Don’t Let An INJURY SLOW

Imaging

ER at Sun City Center, an extension of Manatee Memorial Hospital, is a full-service emergency department that provides care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

We are located at 16504 S. U.S. 301 in Wimauma, adjacent to Walmart®.

ER at Sun City Center features:

• Full-service laboratory and imaging services (X-ray, CT and ultrasound) (A physician order is required.)

• Care for all ages

• Shorter wait times*

• Access to on-site physician 24/7

• Ten treatment areas, including seven exam rooms and three rapid medical exam spaces

• 10,884 square feet

Learn your heart disease risk, appointments available Monday-Friday Call 941-745-7391, option 1

The United States Air Force Band’s premier jazz ensemble, ‘the Airmen of Note,’ from Washington, D.C., is heading out on a nine-day community relations tour throughout Florida. The tour honors the service of airmen both past and present and highlights the excellence of military members working across the globe. All the concerts are free and open to the public, though tickets are required. Ticket information for these concerts is available at www.music.af.mil/ bands/the-united-states-air-force-band/ events/.

The United States Air Force Band’s premier jazz ensemble, ‘the Airmen of Note,’ from Washington, D.C., will be performing on Monday, November 11, at the Straz Center in Tampa.

er, more intimate venues, the Airmen of Note Combo and various individual musicians perform apart from the full band to support military and civilian ceremonial and diplomatic event.

“We are excited to bring the band to spots all across Florida,” said Chief Master Sgt. Brian MacDonald, flight chief and split lead trumpet of the Airmen of Note. “Performing live and meeting communities around the country is a regular highlight of our mission. We look forward to sharing America’s unique music with the local community in each city!”

Don’t miss this chance to see one of the world’s greatest jazz bands live in concert. The Airmen of Note will be performing an eclectic program, ranging from big band hits of the 1930s and ’40s to brand-new compositions encompassing many genres.

Stationed at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., the Airmen of Note is one of six musical ensembles that form the U.S. Air Force Band. Created in 1950 to continue the tradition of Major Glenn Miller’s Army Air Forces dance band, the current band consists of 18 active-duty musicians, including one vocalist. Through the years, the Airmen of Note has presented its own brand of big band jazz as well as more contemporary forms of jazz to audiences via annual tours across the United States, deployments around the world and local performances throughout metropolitan Washington, D.C. For small-

The United States Air Force Band honors those who have served, inspires American citizens to heightened patriotism and service and connects with the global community on behalf of the U.S. Air Force and the United States of America.

You can see more on Facebook at www. facebook.com/usafband, Instagram @ usafband and YouTube at www.youtube. com/theusafband.

The Airmen of Note will be performing locally on Monday, November 11, at 7 p.m. at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, located at 1010 N. Macinnes Place in Tampa. You can also visit www.strazcenter.org to claim your free tickets.

With other stops throughout Florida, it is a show not to be missed. You can view the full schedule at www.music.af.mil/bands/the-united-states-airforce-band/events/.

SENIOR AND JUNIOR HARVEST QUEENS CROWNED FOR 2024

The 2024 Harvest Queen Scholarship Pageant was held on September 21 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. The 2024 Senior Harvest Queen is Asia Hodge. The senior first maid is Savannah Inman. The 2024 Junior Queen is Autumn Brazil. The first maid is Cherith Milligan.

The pageant was held at 1 p.m. To be eligible contestants, must reside in Hillsborough County and be 13-15 years of age. After competing in the casual wear and evening gown competition, the 2024 Junior Court was crowned. The junior first maid is Cherith Milligan, and 2024 Junior Harvest Queen is Autumn Brazil.

By Kathy L. Collins

special events, engage with the community, greet and escort guests, speak at civic clubs, ride in parades, make public appearances and participate in media interviews.

Hodge said, “I am so excited to serve as your new Harvest Queen. I look forward to making friends, celebrating holidays with everyone and enjoying the fair.”

Hodge enjoyed talking to the judges especially about the Instagram platform she created called Overcome Become.

Hodge, a 17-year-old senior at Strawberry Crest High School, took home a $2,000 scholarship, which she plans to use at the University of Florida to pursue a psychology degree. Brazil took home a $1,000 scholarship. She has plans to attend the University of Floria and pursue a degree in nursing.

These outstanding young women will represent the Hillsborough County Fair as ambassadors throughout the year. This year’s theme is Barn in the USA. The fair runs for 12 days, beginning on Thursday, October 31. As ambassadors, the women will be called upon to attend

“I created it to inspire young girls who struggle with social anxiety. I have struggled with social anxiety, so when I heard my number called, I was like, ‘Yay! I did it! I really won,’” said Hodge. This is Brazil’s second year participating in the pageant.

Brazil said, “I knew I could not do anything but believe in myself and go out on the stage and be my true authentic self.”

Brazil added, “Becoming Junior Harvest Queen was not just about winning a pageant to me. I love the Hillsborough County Fair. I enjoy participating in the livestock shows year after year. I really appreciate how the fair supports our youth in agriculture.”

For more information on the 2024 Hillsborough County Fair, please visit www. hillsboroughcountyfair.com.

PRESERVATION 1ST FINANCIAL GROUP HELPS

THE COMMUNITY WITH THEIR FINANCIAL PLANNING NEEDS

Preservation 1st Financial Group has been a part of the Eastern Hillsborough community for more than 19 years. It is owned and operated by Michael Beiter Sr. and Christian Beiter, CFP. Their mission is to partner with their clients and families in their pursuit of their financial goals. Their promise is to provide honest, professional advice, while assisting their clients and families in reaching their goals.

The Beiters and the rest of the sta at Preservation 1st feel it’s their duty to communicate their recommendations and strategies to their clients in ways that everyone can understand. “We put a lot of time and e ort into our certifications and training so that we can focus on retirement and estate planning strategies for our clients,” Christian said. “There are not a lot of financial planners that focus on estate & distribution planning, so our philosophy is to not only educate and assist our clients with growing their nest eggs, but to show them how to enjoy it in a most tax e cient way.”

Both men also believe it’s extremely important to also be involved with the

By Libby Hopkins

local community. “We are part of the Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce and we both have ran for Honorary Mayor of Riverview and have served on the Board of Directors,” Christian said. “We are very community-minded, and we’ve developed a lot of friendships and relationships from this involvement. Trust and involvement go hand in hand.”

The financial service industry is very competitive and Preservation 1st Financial Group has made a name for itself by providing sound advice and spectacular service. “We grow our business when our clients refer us to their friends and families,” Christian reiterated. “Our clients feel comfortable referring us to their friends and families because they know we always have our clients’ best interests in mind when making recommendations.” If you would like to learn more about Preservation 1st Financial Group and the services it o ers, you can visit its website at www.preservation1st.com or call 813627-0872. Its o ce is located at 912

Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon.

Preservation 1st Financial Group has been a part of the Eastern Hillsborough community for more than 19 years. It is owned and operated by Michael Beiter Sr. and Christian Beiter, CFP.

Photo courtesy of Southern Re ection Photography.

2024 Senior Harvest Queen Asia Hodge (left) and 2024 Junior Harvest Queen Autumn Brazil (right) were crowned on September 21 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. e Hillsborough County Fair runs for 12 days, beginning on ursday, October 31.

Recently released statistics show that in one year since its launch, the nonprofit Tampa Downtown Partnership’s DASH (Downtown Area Shared Hubs) service has transformed how people get around downtown Tampa’s seven neighborhoods, with driver-ambassadors completing 30,000 rides and covering 88,500 miles in their iconic yellow Tesla Model Y SUVs.

Those rides include service after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, when gas was scarce, and riders relied on the all-electric Tesla vehicles for vital transportation.

Since launching on October 12, 2023, 41,022 passengers completed 30,004 rides, with an average ride distance of 1.07 miles.

The driver-ambassadors have covered 88,500 miles. The driver-ambassador time in the community amounted to a whopping 23,140 hours. The customer satisfaction rating of 4.95 out of five stars adds another element to the success of the program.

Priced at $2 per person, DASH rides are requested using the ‘DASH Tampa’ smartphone app on an iPhone or Android phone. Uniformed, background-checked driver-ambassadors carry riders be-

Staff Report

tween around 20 hubs in Tampa’s downtown while also serving as mobile ‘eyes and ears’ for safety in the community.

“We’ve seen an increase in rides, month over month, since we launched DASH.

The service is growing because people see how it can connect them to the places they need to go and to each other,” said Shaun Drinkard, senior vice president of operations for the Tampa Downtown Partnership.

“Our one-year statistics show how DASH is delivering as a great complement to all the other transportation options the Tampa Downtown Partnership advocates for every day, including the TECO Line Streetcar, HART buses, bikes, scooters and more,” said Tampa Downtown Partnership President and CEO Kenyetta Hairston-Bridges.

DASH is a revolutionary ‘micro-transit’ service that operates entirely within downtown Tampa’s Special Services District. The app will pair up to four passengers to share each hub-to-hub trip. DASH operates Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m.-11 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 Noon-9 p.m.

To learn more, visit www.tampasdowntown.com/dash/.

VITALITY RESPITE CENTER HELPS LOCAL FAMILIES & CAREGIVERS WITH DEMENTIA CARE, SUPPORT & MORE

A planning team gathered in early 2023 to discuss the possibilities of opening a respite center to provide support and encouragement for those with memory issues and their caregivers. The team researched the concept and discovered that the need in the Brandon community for such a facility is great.

“Using the model of the Respite for All Foundation in Montgomery, AL, which has started over 40 respite centers in the country, a plan was put together for recruiting and training volunteers, building awareness in the community and the church, seeking financial support and finding potential clients,” said Terri Hartney, program manager of the Vitality Respite Center of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church. “Vitality had its grand opening in February 2024. We were overwhelmed by the number of volunteers who wanted to help and the financial support we received. Vitality trained its first group of 30 volunteers and started with eight guests.”

Vitality Respite Center of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church opened in February this year. The purpose of the center is to give caregivers a break so they can take care of themselves while their loved ones with dementia are in a safe environment with a day of socialization, arts and crafts, music and fun.

By Libby Hopkins

volunteers.

Vitality Respite Center is open to guests on Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Depending on the demand, the program may expand to include Fridays as well.

“Vitality Respite Center is a safe and loving place for those with memory loss to engage in fun activities and connect with others, while offering peace of mind and personal time for their caregivers,” Hartney said. “Our local community benefits from our Vitality Respite Center by meeting a need that is a growing concern in our community.”

An estimated 6.9 million Americans ages 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease in 2024. Seventy-three percent are ages 75 and older. As the size of the U.S. population who are ages 65 and older continue to grow, so too will the number and proportion of Americans with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.

The purpose of Vitality Respite Center is to give caregivers some time off to shop, run errands, share time with friends or just rest. Meanwhile, the center hosts their loved ones, offering socialization, brain-stimulating activities, music, art and a wholesome lunch in the care of a qualified director and specially trained

“Vitality provides a place where people with memory loss issues can feel that they are people of worth and are respected,” Hartney said. “It provides a safe environment with a day of socialization, arts/ crafts, music and to have fun.”

For more information about enrolling someone in the program, you can visit Vitality Respite Center’s website at www. saumc.net/vitality or call Hartney at 813689-6849, ext. 5. The center is located at 3315 S. Bryan Rd. in Brandon.

The Tampa Downtown Partnership’s DASH service has had a successful first year of operation in downtown Tampa’s Special Services District.

CULTIVATING A HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON FOR BOTH MIND AND BODY

Each year before October has even passed, stores have put out Christmas items. Once November begins, Thanksgiving arrives, and the days pass faster and faster. Because of how quickly the holiday season can go, stress and all kinds of headaches ultimately follow. However, there are ways to make sure this holiday season is one of health and happiness rather than stress-filled nights and days.

Sunlight and fresh air boosts moods. Florida (affectionately called the Sunshine State) is humid and hot most of the year, but the holiday season often can bring a few substantial cold fronts. Enjoying the weather when it is cooler, such as in the morning hours or late afternoon, can lower stress levels and increase serotonin (which boosts positive moods). Research has also shown that sunlight can help with quality and restfulness of sleep. Increase activity, such as exercise. It is hard to maintain an exercise routine, especially with all the stress of the season. But exercise has been proven to help with both mental and physical health. Starting with small, attainable exercise goals can increase the chances of maintaining a suc-

By Ashley Abene

cessful routine. An example is taking a walk every other day, which can help with the extra calorie intake from holiday meals as well. Swap out junk food for healthier options. When there are holidays back to back from October through January, a lot of junk foods tend to be on the menu. One way to stay healthy this holiday season is to swap out some of those junk foods for healthier options. Reading food labels is a good place to start, such as buying items with less added sugars and nonhydrogenated oils.

Dena Champion, a registered dietitian with Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center, gave some additional ideas of how to eat healthier this holiday season: “Try converting your traditional starch-filled holiday plate into a plate that’s filled with at least half veggies; all different colors of veggies, ideally. Fill up on low-calorie foods, such as vegetables, salads and broth-based soups, before moving on to the foods with a higher calorie count, such as stuffing, casseroles and desserts. What’s in your glass matters as well. It can be easy to sip up the calories, because alcohol, even if it’s clear, isn’t calorie-free.”

Tax Collector Nancy Millan is extending the 4% early payment discount period through December 31, 2024, to ensure that residents have more time to take advantage of the maximum savings. Property and tangible tax notices are typically mailed on November 1; however, this year’s notices will be mailed November 25, 2024. The delayed mailing allows the discount period to be extended under Florida law, providing additional relief to property owners still recovering from hurricane-related damages.

We will resume with the normal scheduled discount periods on January 1, 2025: January 2025 - 2% discount, February 2025 - 1% discount, March 2025 - no discount. Over 535,500 property tax notices will be sent to homeowners and business owners across Hillsborough County.

PUBLIC NOTICE - IMPORTANT UPDATE

“Our hearts go out to our community and neighbors as we recover from the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In this period of restoration and rebuilding, the Tax Collector’s Office is committed to giving residents and businesses the necessary time and support to rebuild their homes, businesses, and lives. At the same time, we are dedicated to fulfilling our obligation under Florida law to collect the tax revenue that funds the vital services we’ve relied on during and after the storms.”

The bills reflect the value of the property as of January 1, 2024, when Florida law required the value to be assessed. They do not reflect any adjustment due to damage or destruction caused by Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton.

By law, the Tax Collector is required to collect property and tangible taxes and mail tax bills. Property and tangible taxes are payable anytime between now and March 31, 2025.

The Tax Collector’s Office stands ready to support our community through tax relief efforts while also fulfilling our tax collection and distribution duties required under Florida law to support vital local institutions like schools and law enforcement.

IMPORTANT: Taxes are not delinquent until after March 31, 2025.

Nancy C. Millan

The holiday season can be stressful but working to stay healthy mentally and physically helps.

Enjoying the outdoors has been proven to boost serotonin levels due to Vitamin D exposure from the sun and fresh air.

OPERATION BBQ RELIEF RETURNS TO FLORIDA TO SERVE COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY HURRICANE MILTON

Operation BBQ Relief (OBR), the much-loved nonprofit founded by Kansas City pitmasters, is back in Florida to provide hot barbecue meals to those a ected by Hurricane Milton. This is OBR’s seventh deployment to Florida in the past decade, where it has served over 12,000,000 meals.

OBR’s most recent response to Hurricane Helene was briefly interrupted by Milton, but the organization has returned, setting up a new cooking site in St. Petersburg to distribute meals across impacted areas, partnering with local food trucks and organizations like the American Red Cross for wider reach.

While mobilizing in Florida, OBR continues to serve in North Carolina and Tennessee, still supporting communities a ected by Helene. OBR has provided more than 900,000 meals since Helen’s landfall. And as of October 20, OBR has provided a total of 1,018,369 meals and 24,622 volunteer hours for Helene and Milton relief. This reflects OBR’s capacity to deliver relief across multiple states, demonstrating their commitment to bringing comfort and normalcy wherever it’s needed.

“Our goal is to provide more than just a meal — we bring comfort and hope to those impacted by disaster,” said Stan Hays, CEO and co-founder. “We are honored to return to Florida and continue our

Sta Report

mission in North Carolina and Tennessee as well.”

Some of OBR’s largest e orts in Florida include: • Hurricane Helene (2024) — 234,541 meals in 12 days.

• Hurricane Idalia (2023) — 306,812 meals in 29 days in Live Oak.

• Hurricane Ian (2022) — 865,603 meals in 40 days in Port Charlotte.

• Hurricane Michael (2018) — 808,220 meals in 30 days in Tallahassee and Panama City.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: OBR urgently needs more volunteers to continue its mission. Join OBR in making a di erence! Register to volunteer by downloading the ‘OBR Volunteers’ app at https:// apps.apple.com/us/app/obr-volunteers/ id1193200138 or through OBR’s website at https://operationbbqrelief.org/volunteer-obr/.

Want to help but can’t volunteer? Your donations will make a huge impact. Donate now at https://volunteers.operationbbqrelief.org/donations/donate-now.

Meal distribution sites are announced daily on OBR’s social media platforms. Follow OBR for the latest information on where you can access its support, including Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @obbqrelief; LinkedIn at www.linkedin. com/company/operation-bbq-relief; and YouTube at www.youtube.com/operationbbqrelief.

16TH ANNUAL FISHHAWK TURKEY TROT DEEPENS COMMUNITY TRADITION AND SERVICE

The much-beloved FishHawk Turkey Trot returns for a 16th year in the wake of two major hurricanes over the course of 13 days this fall.

That there is much to be thankful for, as well as many needs to address, is not far from the minds of many who have given life to this holiday tradition from one season to the next, with more than 2,500 participants showing up for last year’s race alone.

Count among them Leda Eaton, who, as a mother helping her children earn community service hours, worked with her son and daughter to establish the turkey trot, which in its first two years helped raise money for local food banks.

Wanting a greater say in how that money would be spent, Eaton said it was necessary to be the organization to receive the funds.

“Once you give the money away, you don’t control how it’s spent,” she said.

That realization 14 years ago led to the formation of Seeds of Hope, the mission of which is “to nourish hope among people in need by providing food through the actions and help provided by our local students.”

According to Eaton, Seeds of Hope today gives out 350 boxes of food each week at its Bloomingdale Avenue location, where four adult supervisors witness the work of 25 students from area schools who take leadership and distribution roles for community service hours. Another 170 backpacks per week are filled with food for students who qualify for free and reduced-price lunches so

NOW OPEN

By Linda Chion

they and their families have enough food to eat for the weekend. That program is run in coordination with counselors at local schools, who identify the students in need.

Food distribution takes place Thursdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave.

Meanwhile, registration is underway for the 16th annual FishHawk Turkey Trot, scheduled for Thanksgiving Day, November 28. Multiple race options are for 5K timed and 10K timed (8 a.m.), 5K untimed (8:15 a.m.), 1-mile fun run (9:15 a.m.) and the 250yard mini run for kids and kids at heart (9:15 a.m.). Early-bird registration costs range from $25 to $45; after Nov. 24, costs range from $30 to $50. Each registration has a sign-up fee, which ranges from $2.50-$3.70.

Race day registration kicks o at 6:30 a.m. at the FishHawk Publix parking lot, located at 5462 FishHawk Crossing Blvd. in Lithia, with participants urged to arrive an hour before their scheduled races.

Early packet pickup is scheduled for Wednesday, November 17, from 12 Noon-7 p.m. at The Palmetto Club, located at 17004 Dorman Rd. in Lithia.

Registration includes a turkey-themed race shirt, custom race bib and medal.

To register for the FishHawk Turkey Trot, visit https://runsignup.com/race/events/fl/ lithia/2022fishhawkturkeytrot.

For more on nourishing hope through community service, visit Seeds of Hope at https://sohopefl.org/.

Whole-Person Care Built Around You

Operation BBQ Relief volunteers serving up food for those in need after two Florida hurricanes.

Leda Eaton (right) with the FishHawk Turkey Trot mascot and race participants.

LOCAL POWERLIFTERS COMPETE IN THE FIRST ANNUAL IRON BUILT GAMES COMPETITION

Three powerlifters from BPHAT Fitness, a gym in Valrico, competed in the first annual Iron Built Games on September 14. The Iron Built Games is an event sanctioned by the USPA (United States Powerlifting Association).

The first of its kind, this event had 988 competitors from 22 locations across the country competing simultaneously on the same day. Forty-eight of competitors were from Florida.

Dawn Bowman, Charles Cain Jr. and Abigail McGuin from BPHAT Fitness competed. They traveled to Legacy Barbell in Clearwater for the Florida location of the meet.

BPHAT Fitness owner and trainer Matt Brewer said his athletes trained harder than ever before and showed it in their performance during the competition. They all won gold in their respective categories, and they set squat, bench and deadlift state records.

“I just want to say how proud I am of all three of my athletes. It was the toughest competition that any of them had ever been in,” Brewer said.

Powerlifting is an individualized sport where competitors attempt to lift as much weight as possible for one repetition in the squat, bench press and deadlift. Competitors are placed into divisions based on weight class, age group and whether they had equipment (geared) or not (raw). BPHAT’s three lifters were full-power raw lifters.

By Jane Owen

Brewer said that one of the best parts of the Iron Built Games was witnessing the camaraderie of all the lifters in the sport. Despite the strong competition, lifters were genuinely happy for each other when they had successful lifts. In addition, they worked together for each other’s success.

A case in point is competitor and Gainesville resident Cecelia Buckley’s experience at the meet. The Iron Built Games were her

first competition, and she was in the same flight as McGuin. Recognizing that she was new and without a trainer there to guide her, Brewer and his team invited her to join them for warm-ups and assisted her at the platform before she lifted. At the end of the day, they had a new friend and Buckley won gold in her category.

Brewer has been a trainer for 31 years. In addition to powerlifting training, his gym offers one-on-one personal training and small group strength and fitness classes.

“The gym is very much like the sport of powerlifting. It is for anybody. There is no demographic. There’s no age minimum or maximum for anyone,” Brewer said.

The next competition for BPHAT’s powerlifters is the Miami Throwdown in November. BPHAT Fitness Gym is located at 3638 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more information, visit www.bphatfitness.com or call 813-967-2036.

NEW SCHOLARSHIP OFFERS HELP FOR ASPIRING FIREFIGHTERS

The Firefighter and EMT Scholarship program will help aspiring firefighters train for one of the most important jobs in the community by providing financial support during training.

Hillsborough County recognizes that financial insecurity often prevents qualified applicants with low to moderate-income levels from applying and training for a career as a first responder. This new scholarship program aims to remove financial barriers that might prevent qualified candidates from attending an approved Florida Firefighter Minimum Standards and Emergency Medical Technician certification program. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue’s goal is to recruit a diverse group of candidates from a variety of backgrounds across the community.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and Hillsborough County A ordable Housing created the scholarship program jointly. Candidates can find the application at https://hcfl.gov/firescholarship. The deadline has been extended to Wednesday, November 6, to give applicants more time after the displacement caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

The Firefighter and EMT Scholarship program covers the cost of tuition, books, uniforms and rental of required protective clothing. During firefighter and EMT classes, the scholarship recipient will receive a stipend equaling $19 per hour while in class or clinicals. Stipends will be paid approximately every two weeks.

Applicants should ensure that they have met and/or satisfied all eligibility requirements for this scholarship prior to applying. The complete list of requirements can be found at https:// hcfl.gov/firescholarship.

Three letters of recommendation and a written essay are also required.

Failure to submit all required items may result in disqualification of the applicant.

The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation Firefighter and EMT Scholarship program aims to provide financial aid to eligible, aspiring firefighters who need the help and wish to pursue a career as a firefighter in the state of Florida.

Identifying successful applicants will be based on financial need, application, letters of recommendation and their essay. Public-safety-related extracurricular activities, community service and involvement in volunteer organizations may also be taken into consideration.

The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation Scholarship Committee will review all applications and ensure they meet eligibility and submission requirements before considering each candidate’s individual circumstances or qualifications for the award. Upon a scholarship award, recipients will be assigned a local fire department mentor by Hillsborough County Fire Rescue to assist them throughout the scholarship period.

Visit https://hcfl.gov/firescholarship for application, eligibility criteria and essay requirements.

From left to right: Charles Cain Jr., Abigail McGuin, Matt Brewer, Dawn Bowman, Cecelia Buckley and Cat Brewer at the Florida location of the Iron Built Games.

KAPPA DELTA PHI HOSTS CHARITY GOLF EVENT AT BUCKHORN SPRINGS TO BENEFIT A KID’S PLACE

The Kappa Delta Phi Charity Golf Tournament, presented by the Harper family, will take place on Thursday, November 21, at the Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country Club in Valrico. Proceeds raised from this golf tournament will go to A Kid’s Place. Registration begins at 10 a.m., and the shotgun goes off at 12 Noon.

By Libby Hopkins

Betty Harper has been a member of the Kappa Kappa Chapter for 51 years and is the co-chair for the golf tournament, along with Orebaugh.

“We wanted to sponsor the golf tournament for A Kid’s Place because we have the course and facility to do with and wanted to help them raise the necessary funds for their recreation addition,”

The golf tournament includes contests, raffles, live and silent auctions, brunch and dinner. There will also be an Elite Sponsor Dinner on Saturday, November 16, at the golf and country club as well.

“The Kappa Kappa Chapter has served the Brandon area for almost 60 years and is dedicated to serving the community’s needs and interests with a strong emphasis on children,” said Shelley Orebaugh, co-chair of the golf tournament and vice president of the Kappa Kappa Chapter of Kappa Delta Phi National Affiliated Sorority. “Kappa Delta Phi raises money for local charities and volunteers many hours in the community. We are proud to join the Harper family in support of A Kid’s Place and all they do for foster children, serving four counties.”

The Harper family owns and operates the Buckhorn Springs Golf & County Club.

Harper said. “A golf tournament is a great way to involve the golfing community for a good cause with this one being in our own backyard. For many years, golf outings have been a vehicle for raising money for various charities in the community.”

Both Orebaugh and Harper hope the golf tournament will be a huge success and raise the funds A Kid’s Place needs to continue doing the amazing work the local nonprofit does for children in need.

“Our hopes are to raise as much money as possible for A Kid’s Place,” Harper said.

If you would like to participate in the charity golf tournament for A Kid’s Place, you can contact Orebaugh at shelleyorebaugh@aol.com or call 813486-3770. The Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country Club is located at 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico.

The Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country Club in Valrico will be hosting the Kappa Delta Phi Charity Golf Tournament, presented by the Harper family, on Thursday, November 21.

It was a little confusing, I’ll admit, but it was a hoot watching the interpreters at the international women’s church conference, each simultaneously speaking in di erent languages during my message.

Grace Notes Anytime, Anywhere

By Debora Coty

One group had headsets, with a male translator doing his durndest to translate unique Debora Coty terms sprinkled throughout my presentation, like “joy-sucking dully-funks,” and “we’ve been bosom buddies since we got bosoms in the seventh grade.” He kept shooting me bug-eyes.

Another translator standing about 10 feet from me spoke aloud to her group, which created an interesting echo whenever I paused for breath. I was mesmerized by her flying lips in a language I didn’t understand and had a hard time focusing on what I was supposed to say next.

I like to close my presentations with an original, funny sing-along, and it got

funnier and funnier because half the audience couldn’t understand the English lyrics and had no idea what the hand gestures meant. The Haitian ladies were amazing, seamlessly making up their own motions and ad-libbing a sort of cool, smooth calypso rhythm that wasn’t even in the song.

The whole group ended up forsaking the ‘right way’ and followed them around the room in an impromptu praise conga line.

Isn’t it awesome that there is no right or wrong way to praise and worship? Culture is no barrier, language doesn’t really matter and location is irrelevant. An attitude of gratitude is all you need. Anytime. Anywhere.

During this season of thanksgiving, seize the moment to uniquely express your gratitude to our Creative God for His many blessings.

“But he (Jesus) said, ‘If they kept quiet, the stones would do it for them, shouting praise,’” (Luke 19:40 MSG).

Debora M. Coty is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of over 40 books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed series. Visit with Debora anytime at www.DeboraCoty.com.

PUTTING THINGS INTO PERSPECTIVE

“God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth,” (Matthew 5:5).

It is hard to know what to write after such widespread devastation from recent hurricanes. The situation is dire here in North Carolina too, with unimaginable stories coming out of the mountain communities.

Our own adopted home, Tarboro, saw catastrophic flooding after Hurricane Floyd in 1999 and then again with Matthew in 2016, when the Tar River spilled its banks and destroyed everything in its path.

I share this not as a competing narrative but as hope and inspiration, a testimony to what is possible when people work together to write a new story going forward, one of tenacity and resolve and promise and victory.

It turns out there is nothing like extended recovery when it comes to setting aside the petty things that divide us, focusing on what we have in common, helping one another and why it is we love the community where we live.

Fact is, arguing about someone else’s politics turns out to be profoundly inconsequential when there is a community that needs love and support and encouragement and hope.

This truth demands even further amplification in the context of faith. Jesus made this crystal clear at the beginning

of his Sermon on the Mount, where his words about humility are especially apt.

“God blesses those who are humble,” he said, “for they will inherit the whole earth.”

With all the power plays splashed across the headlines, day in and day out, it is important to remember that Jesus turns traditional priorities on their head.

Serve your neighbor. Put people in need ahead of yourself. Work for the good of those around you. If someone is your enemy, go out of your way to help them too.

There is a lot of cleanup and a mountain of work to be done. But there is also a mountain of love at our disposal, bigger than anyone’s selfishness or hate or thirst for power.

Each and every new day, regardless of hurricane or flood or catastrophe or November elections, our opportunity is to serve one another with love.

— DEREK

Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, e United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, e Christian Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul and many other publications. Read Derek Maul’s daily blog posts at www.derekmaul.wordpress.com.

ENJOY THE CHRISTMAS PLAY HELP, I’M STUCK IN A CHURCH CHRISTMAS PLAY! NEXT MONTH AT GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH

Grace Baptist Church is kicking off the holiday season with its free third

Christmas play. This year, it will be putting on performances of Help, I’m Stuck in a Church Christmas Play! Written by Andrew M. Frodahl and Hope Bunch, this full-length, two-act play — with an intermission — is a fun, family-friendly comedy. After the play, there will be a light reception with refreshments where you can meet and chat with the cast.

“Although the cast is having a lot of fun, most of them resonate with this title, as they may have been talked into this church project. Joking aside, it is a play like no other play; it’s actually a play within a play. I (director) knew I had a talented pool of potential cast members to pull off this zany comedy,” said Rebekah Young of Grace Baptist Church.

In this play, Karen Silver was one of the most sought-after actresses on Broadway. Her star was rising even as she was labeled a self-entitled, demanding and difficult actress. But at the opening of her new Broadway play, the director fires Karen on the spot. That’s when Karen encounters a mysterious man who offers her an opportunity to regain her dignity. She only needs to take a role in a church Christmas play in Virginia.

Despite her adamant refusal, Karen mi-

By Taylor Wells

raculously finds herself on the set of the most clichéd church Christmas play ever. But she doesn’t know anything about the play! She is trapped without lines or blocking, and she can’t escape until she finishes it. Amid confusion and unexpected action, things certainly don’t go as scripted, but as the church cast ultimately delivers a message of kindness and love, lives are changed, especially Karen’s.

Showtimes for Help, I’m Stuck in a Church Christmas Play! include Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, November 16, at 6 p.m.; and Sunday, November 17, at 6 p.m.

“Situated at the end of a work or school week and just before the holiday madness begins, we want our community to be able to bring their family, neighbors, coworkers and friends out for a night of laughter and make new memories with those they love,” said Young.

This play is a fundraiser for the church’s youth group. There is a suggested donation of $10 per person for tickets, or a max of $40 per family, but no one will be turned away for nonpayment.

Grace Baptist Church is located at 114 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. For more information and tickets, visit www.eventbrite. com/e/free-family-christmas-play-tickets-1037292117647.

GFWC BRANDON SERVICE LEAGUE TO SPONSOR HIGH SCHOOL ART SHOW

GFWC Brandon Service League is sponsoring a judged high school art show. The artwork of talented young artists from several area high schools will be entered into the show. All the artwork, including those by the winners of the show, will be available for viewing at New Hope Church in Brandon.

GFWC Brandon Service League is reviving a wonderful tradition of sponsoring a judged high school art show. The winning artists will be awarded ribbons and monetary awards. Attendees will be able to see the art, enjoy a Christmas tree lighting and hear some delightful jazz.

GFWC Brandon Service League has invited students from 10 area high schools to submit art in three categories. These include photography, 2D art and 3D art. The art will be judged, and students will be eligible to receive ribbons and monetary awards for first, second and third place. There will also be two honorable mention winners.

The 10 high schools include Armwood, Blake, Bloomingdale, Brandon, Durant, Newsome, Riverview, Spoto, Sumner and Strawberry Crest.

Joanne Baxter with GFWC Brandon Service League said, “For many years, GFWC Brandon Service League partnered with Center Place Brandon in sponsoring a judged high school art show. Unfortunately, this ended during the time of the COVID pandemic. Brandon Service League is excited to now be reviving this traditional event at a new venue.”

The public will be able to view the stu-

By Kathy L. Collins

dents’ artwork on Saturday, November 30, and Sunday, December 1, from 1-4 p.m. at the New Hope Social Hall, located at 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon.

The finale of the art show will culminate with a presentation of awards on Friday, December 6, at 6 p.m. Attendees will be treated to refreshments, a Christmas tree lighting and a jazz festival, all courtesy of New Hope Church. The public is invited to share in all these festivities and to participate in recognizing the winning students and the efforts of all the art participants.

Baxter said, “GFWC Brandon Service League has encouraged young students in their art endeavors for many years, donating money annually to area high school art departments for art supplies. This year, GFWC Brandon Service League has increased their support by adding three more schools to the original six schools.”

Baxter added, “GFWC Brandon Service League looks forward to seeing our Brandon community show our artistic high school students their support by attending the public viewing and the award presentation. Hope to see you there.”

For more information on GFWC Brandon Service League, please visit https:// gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org/.

FINANCIAL FOCUS

CUTTING SPENDING CAN HELP BOOST RETIREMENT SAVINGS

Like most of us, you may someday want to enjoy a comfortable retirement. Your ability to achieve this goal will depend on how much you save — but it also matters how much you spend.

And saving and spending are certainly related: The more you can reduce your spending, the more money you could have available to save for retirement through your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. Over many years, even relatively small amounts diverted from spending to saving and investing could add up substantially.

How can you go about potentially reducing your spending? Here are a few suggestions:

• Use a budgeting tool. If you’re not already doing so, you might want to consider using a free online budgeting tool. Among other capabilities, these apps can place your spending in categories — groceries, travel, entertainment, and so on — which can reveal redundancies that, once eliminated, could save you money. For example, you might find that you’re spending a not-insignificant amount on streaming services you rarely use. Or you might be surprised at how often you go the grocery store, rather than consolidating your visits and reducing the likelihood of “impulse” purchases.

• Take advantage of employee benefits. If you work for a mid-size or large company, you may have an extensive employee benefit plan, which could include discounts on some products and services. Also, if you are enrolled in a high-deductible health plan through your employer, you might have access to a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA), either of which may let you lower your out-of-pocket health care

costs by using pre-tax dollars to pay for deductibles, copayments, coinsurance and some other qualified expenses.

• Shop around for insurance . To some extent, we are all creatures of habit, which can be good in some circumstances and not so good in others. In the “not so good” category, many people stick with their auto, homeowners and life insurance policies year after year, even though they might be able to save some money by switching to another company. But even if you stay with your current company, you might find ways to save money by taking steps such as adding a home security system. Check with your insurer to learn more.

• Compare credit cards. There’s a piece of financial advice that essentially says: “Pay cash for everything” — and this isn’t a bad idea. Ideally, you might want to use a credit card strictly for items such as car rentals or hotel reservations, and you should pay off the bill each month to avoid interest charges. Sometimes, though, you may need to use your card for other purposes, and it may not always be possible to pay your bill in full. That’s why you’ll want to review credit cards periodically to find one with lower interest rates, a favorable balance transfer offer and a better rewards program.

It’s not always easy to cut down on your spending, but when you do, it can provide more peace of mind — and an opportunity to boost your savings for what could be a long and active retirement.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your

For its third annual Christmas play, Grace Baptist Church is putting on three performances of Help, I’m Stuck in a Church Christmas Play!, a fun comedy for the whole family written by Andrew M. Frodahl and Hope Bunch.

THE 53RD ANNUAL NOVEMBERFEST WILL FEATURE RIDES, FOOD

AND

GAMES FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Nativity Catholic Church’s 53rd annual Novemberfest will kick o at the end of November, bringing rides, games and classic carnival food to the community.

Over 5,000 visitors will come to enjoy the event starting Thursday, November 21, and running through Sunday, November 24, said Abby Watts, entertainment co-chair.

She said the event is a staple of the Brandon community.

“It’s seeing people from the community, people you went to high school with, people you go to church with, people you work with,” Watts said. “It’s Brandon.”

Past carnival rides, games and food, the ‘big tent’ will be an entertainment hub for those looking for shade, fans and a place to sit. Entertainment will include Nativity Catholic School alumni, community performers and trivia. Carlos Lamoutte, a Nativity alumnus, will perform with his band Sunday night to cap o the weekend.

There will be live music each night and sports games broadcast on several televisions in the tent as well.

Aside from the local entertainers that make the night fun, the community dedicates over 9,000 volunteer hours each year to make the event possible.

By Lily Belcher

“It’s a big undertaking and I think everybody pulls together because it’s important to the school, its important to the church and I think it’s important for any community,” Watts said. Tickets for Novemberfest are available online, but Nativity Catholic School’s students compete to sell the most armbands, so Watts recommends purchasing through them.

“It’s just a great way to support the kids as well as support the event,” she said.

Single-day armbands are on sale for $19, and guests can purchase discounted food tickets until Sunday, November 17. Armbands are $25 at the door during Novemberfest.

“To me, this is how you give back,” Watts said. “This is how you are part of the greater community. … Novemberfest is just a tiny snapshot of what makes Brandon so great. To me, I think it’s the best event in town.”

Novemberfest will be hosted at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, on the corner of Bryan Road and State Road 60, at the Nativity Catholic School and Church campus. For more information, visit www.nativitycatholicchurch.org/novemberfest or email nfestentertainment@gmail.com.

SUPER PLANT AUCTION AT COUNTY FAIR TO BENEFIT YOUTH PROGRAMS

Looking for beautiful fall plants at excellent prices to share with friends and family? If so, then you won’t want to miss the 2024 Super Plant Auction scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday, November 10, at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. The auction, presented annually by the Florida Conservation Coalition, will benefit area youth through conservation programs, scholarships and the extensive mini-grant program. Sponsoring the auction, which kicks o with an 11 a.m. preview, are Odiorne Insurance Agency and Auto-Owners Insurance, two major supporters of numerous events at the fair, which is running from now through Monday, November 11. Featured plants in the auction will be annuals, perennials, landscape and butterfly plants, ferns, bushes, trees and plant nutrition items. Over 30 local nursery operations support the auction annually, with o erings ranging from 1-inch starter plants to full-size fruit and landscape trees. Fruit trees last year included citrus, mangoes, avocados, papayas, star fruit and bananas, among others. According to Roy Davis, auction chair, “We’re really grateful for the many members of the nursery community that

come together each year to make this terrific event possible. It’s a wonderful way to beautify the environment and help youth at the same time.”

Funds from the auction are rolled into conservation mini grants awarded to a myriad of youth organizations, including 4-H Clubs, FFA Chapters, Scouts and church youth groups. Groups of five or more students, with one adult, may apply for a $250 grant to conduct a conservation project within the county. Projects include road, river and beach cleanups; recycling paper, plastics and electronics; tree plantings; school and community gardens; pollinator and wildflower programs; and other related conservation activities. In fact, last year a Brownie troop took a class on building bat-nesting boxes, which they then constructed and placed throughout the county.

The Super Plant Auction is one of many programs, projects and activities presented annually by the Florida Conservation Coalition, which is dedicated to advocating, educating and facilitating conservation programs for youth and adults. For further information contact Betty Jo Tompkins, president of the Florida Conservation Coalition, at 813477-8332 or bjt6890@yahoo.com.

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR 2025 COUNTY WOMEN’S HALL OF FAME

Do you have a favorite woman mentor, teacher or business leader who has made a significant positive impact on the community? Nominate them to be considered for the Women’s Hall of Fame.

The Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women (COSW) is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame. The hall of fame was created in 2011 to honor and celebrate the achievements of Hillsborough County women who have made significant contributions in areas such as business, education, philanthropy, the military and public service to improve the lives of residents in Hillsborough County.

Plant City community service leader and former City Commissioner Marsha Passmore is a 2024 Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame inductee.

The honor is given to up to three incredible recipients each year.

Since its inception, the Commission on the Status of Women has recognized and honored 41 notable women through induction into the Women’s Hall of Fame. All Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame inductees are permanently recognized with a plaque displayed at the Arthenia L. Joyner University Area Community Library.

Past inductees include pioneering desegregation-era educator Doretha Edgecomb; civil rights activist Mary Alice Dorsett; Maryann Ferenc, co-proprietor

Staff Report

of Mise en Place and passionate advocate for business in Tampa; Sylvia Campbell, M.D., the first female surgeon in Hillsborough County; Ann Porter, the first director of Hillsborough County’s Head Start program; and Carol D. Morsani, a cherished area philanthropist and community leader.

A complete list can be found online at www.hcflgov.net/whof.

The COSW was created to study and make recommendations to the board of county commissioners on issues pertaining to the status of women, including discrimination, employment, day care, education and health care. The COSW’s 15 members include those appointed by the board of county commissioners and representatives from the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, The Helen Gordon Davis Centre for Women, the League of Women Voters of Hillsborough County, The Spring of Tampa Bay, the Hispanic Professional Women’s Association Inc., the National Council of Negro Women, the University of South Florida and Hillsborough Community College. Nomination forms are available at www.hcflgov.net/whof and will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Monday, November 18. For more information, contact Jaida Clark at clarkjai@hcfl.gov or 813-635-7403.

FIVE MANATEES SOAR BACK TO FLORIDA: SUCCESSFUL REHABILITATION AT OHIO ZOOS PAVES WAY FOR RETURN TO FREEDOM!

Five manatees were flown more than 1,000 miles to their temporary homes in Florida, marking a crucial conservation achievement following over two years of successful rescue efforts by four zoological and marine institutions.

In an intricate operation, DHL Express transported the manatees in custom-built, state-of-the-art containers, accompanied by a Columbus Zoo Animal Care curator, who monitored the manatees’ condition throughout the flight to Florida. There they will complete the final stages of their rehabilitation journey before they return to the waters where they were initially rescued.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, ZooTampa at Lowry Park and SeaWorld Orlando have partnered for several years to rehabilitate these five orphans.

Two male orphaned manatees, Nighthawk and Mr. Dobak, were transferred from the Columbus Zoo to SeaWorld Orlando, where they will continue to be cared for until they are released sometime this winter or early spring 2025.

Nolia, Amethyst and Waffles, all females, left Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and headed back to ZooTampa’s David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center. The trio was rescued in January and February 2023 and transported for treatment to ZooTam-

pa, which is home to the largest nonprofit critical care center in the United States, before moving to Cincinnati Zoo’s Manatee Springs in October 2023 for continued rehabilitation.

All of the manatees were moved prior to Hurricane Milton and arrived safely at their planned destinations.

“As manatee continue to face hardships and critical care facilities operate close to capacity, these transfers are extremely important to make room for critically injured, ill and orphaned manatees,” said Tiffany Burns, ZooTampa’s senior director of animal programs and president of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership. “We are grateful to our partners in Ohio for providing secondary rehabilitation. It’s an incredible team effort and we are excited about the manatees’ return to Florida waters early next year.”

As part of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP), ZooTampa and SeaWorld Orlando provide critical care, including urgent veterinary treatment, to injured manatees in Florida. The Columbus and Cincinnati zoos are two of only three facilities outside of Florida to care for manatees and serve as second-stage rehabilitation facilities to provide temporary homes, food and veterinary care for manatees until they can return back to Florida waters. Visit https://zootampa.org/.

Waffles and Amethyst are at ZooTampa.

Nolia is now at ZooTampa for rehab.

PELICAN PLAYERS PRESENTS: THE WITCH IN 204

Latch your windows! Bolt your door! Beware of The Witch in 204!

The Witch in 204 is the third main-stage production offered this year by the Pelican Players Community Theater of Sun City Center. You know your property value has plummeted when a witch moves in next door.

and Diane Keyes; and director Mary Anne Moseley-Sapia.

This fun comedy takes place in a seaside senior condo community in Margate, New Jersey, where Sylvie, a bride-to-be, has her wedding put on hold due to the machinations of the witch in apartment 204, who wants the groom. Written by Barbara Pease Weber, this play “weaves a bewitching tale of ageless romance and the magic of true love through the lives of those who have lived (seniors), which is entertaining, hilarious and, refreshing!”, wrote STAGE Magazine

“There’s a riotous scene of mistaken identity. But love prevails as Sylvie’s friends and bridesmaids collaborate to help the bride and groom get rid of the witch,” said director Mary Anne Moseley-Sapia. “The cast of actors will tickle your funny bones.”

In order of appearance, the role of Bella, a witch wicked to her core, is played by Carol MacAlister; Fannie, the maid of honor and hopeful bride herself, by Tari MacMillan; Thelma, another bridesmaid and a turkey vulture’s favorite driver, by Diane Keyes; Sylvie, the retired schoolteacher bride-tobe, by Sandra Foell-Goldman; Herman, Fannie’s true love and Mabel’s cousin, by Jim-

Staff Report

my Sapia; Mabel, Sylvie’s friend and wedding officiant, by Carolann Olson; Evelyn, a wedding guest and unwitting victim of the witch, by Lucy Malacos; and Eugene, the ‘otherworldly’ groom, by Stephen Preuss. Shirley Walker is the co-director and Michele Whelan is the stage manager.

Audiences will have four opportunities to see the play, including Friday, November 22, at 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, November 23, at 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.; and Sunday, November 24, at 1:30 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes before curtain. Tickets are on sale at the Kings Point Box Office, located at 1900 Clubhouse Dr. in Sun City Center, open from 9 a.m-4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Evening performances are $16; $13 for matinees. Tickets will also be sold at the door for each show; the theater will accept only checks or cash at the door (exact amounts are appreciated).

All performances are at the Kings Point Veterans Theater in the North Clubhouse, located at 1900 Clubhouse Dr. in Sun City Center.

Founded in 1981, the Pelican Players Community Theater, a 501(c)(3) organization run by volunteers, seeks to promote the dramatic arts by staging productions and educational activities.

For more information, visit www.pelicanplayersscc.org.

TAMPA ELECTRIC’S MANATEE VIEWING CENTER REOPENS FOR SEASON

Tampa Electric’s award-winning Manatee Viewing Center opened on November 1 for the season.

“Even after two devastating hurricanes, we recovered sufficiently to open for our guests this season — right on time,” said Stan Kroh, manager of Land and Stewardship Programs for Tampa Electric. “We’re ready to welcome manatees to our warm waters, as well as the thousands of guests who come to see them in the wild each year.”

The Manatee Viewing Center is the anchor attraction for the Florida Conservation and Technology Center (FCTC), which is a public-private partnership to feature both nature and technology. Tampa Electric provides the campus to its environmental partners for their important research and educational outreach. In addition to Tampa Electric, the partners include The Florida Aquarium, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the University of Florida.

The manatees have gathered in the canal to find refuge from the cold since the early 1970s. When the water temperature of Tampa Bay is 68 degrees or colder, manatees gather in the clean, warm water discharge canal of Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station, sometimes by the hundreds.

Staff Report

About 190 manatees have been documented visiting the Manatee Viewing Center’s canal for more than 20 years — one has returned for a record 42 years.

Guests can hike the nature trail and take in the vistas from the 50-foot observation tower. After Thanksgiving, visitors also can meet the rays, critical animals that rely on a healthy Tampa Bay ecosystem, and even touch them gently as they glide past in the touch tank.

Each season, the center draws nearly 400,000 visitors — for a total of more than 7 million. Admission and parking at the Apollo Beach facility are free. And the boardwalks are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act for its guests’ convenience. Contributions are welcomed and will directly support protecting manatees, preserving their habitats and educating the public.

The Manatee Viewing Center’s regular hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. every day from now through April 15, 2025, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, when it is closed. (The facility closes at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve.) Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. Please note that no pets are allowed, only trained service animals. Visit the center online at www.tampaelectric.com/manatee or call 813-228-4289 for more information.

The photo includes, from left to right: Stage manager Michele Whelan; co-director Shirley Walker; cast members Stephen Preuss, Sandra Foell-Goldman, Tari MacMillan, Jimmy Sapia, Carolann Olson, Lucy Malacos, Carol MacAlister

Each season, nearly 400,000 visitors are drawn to see the many manatees gathered in the warm waters of the Tampa Electric discharge canal.

Thanksgiving reminds us to be grateful for all we have and to help those less fortunate. Here are some worthy organizations that welcome your donations here in our community!

Feeding Tampa Bay, serving needs countywide: 813 -254-1190 or FeedingTampaBay.org

Seeds of Hope, featuring the Nov. 28 FishHawk Turkey Trot: SoHopeFL.org

Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels, 18 area churches: BrandonMealsOnWheels.com

ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization), Brandon: 813 -685-0935

Redlands Christian Migrant Association, Wimauma: 813 -671-5264