Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk April 2024

ANNUAL KEEL FARMS BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL RETURNS TO PLANT CITY APRIL WEEKENDS

The 16th annual Keel Farms Blueberry Festival promises to kick of spring in Tampa Bay with its monthlong celebration of Florida’s blueberry harvest. Join Keel farms every weekend this month with live entertainment, delicious food and blueberry U-picks.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

Keel Farms will be releasing three new drinks throughout the month: blueberry Moscato, blueberry vanilla cider and blueberry Serrano cider.

The Blueberry Festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday, April 6 and 7, 13 and 14 and 20 and 21, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every day. Admission to the event is free, but parking is $10, and some activities will have an additional cost. With limited parking available, carpooling and cash payments are recommended for seamless entry.

This multiweekend event ofers a variety of activities for everyone in the family. Indulge in some shopping with over 50 food and craft vendors, enjoy music from DJJP on the Garden Stage and the Golden Bottle Hunts. Bring the kids and let them get their energy out in the bounce houses, enjoy the petting zoo, take a camel ride or get a face painting. Plus, don’t miss the Blueberry Shortcake Eating Competition.

Guests can spend time in the blueberry U-pick fields starting at just $5 or purchase prepackaged blueberries by the pound.

“Seeing smiles on children’s faces as they pick their own blueberries, the laughter among families enjoying the day out and the shared moments over a glass of our finest wine — these are the moments that make the blueberry festival so special to me and to all of us at Keel Farms,” said Clay Keel, president of Keel Farms.

The festival is a cherished tradition that began in 2007, launched by Clay’s father, Joe Keel, with the goal of celebrating the bountiful blueberry harvest and fostering community spirit.

“Here at Keel Farms, the blueberry festival is much more than just a celebration of the harvest; it’s a reflection of the joy and community spirit that farming brings to our lives,” said Clay.

Get excited for a weekend filled with blueberry delights, great entertainment and a host of family-friendly activities.

For more information, go to www.keelfarms.com or visit Keel Farms at 5202 Thonotosassa Rd. in Plant City.

FISHHAWK NATIVE NOLAN ALLAER RACES THROUGH ST. PETERSBURG IN INDY NXT SEASON

When Nolan Allaer was 4, he went go-karting. At the time, it wasn’t meant to set him up for a career in car racing. It was simply a way for his parents to get him used to driving because they wanted him to be a safe driver when he got his license.

Then something changed. The former FishHawk resident got his license at 16 and found a renewed interest in cars. Allaer comes from a family of racers. His dad and maternal grandfather race cars competitively. It shouldn’t have been a surprise that Allaer is participating in this year’s Indy NXT season.

Allaer made his debut in the first race of the Indy NXT season, the racing equivalent of Triple-A baseball, at the beginning of March in St. Petersburg. The 45-lap, 55-minute race took Allaer and the 20 other racers alongside the water of the South Yacht Basin and down the Albert Whitted Airport runway, turning through the streets of St. Petersburg.

“I always loved it but I never imagined I would be back in it full time,” he said.

The track itself was a challenge. Over three Gs of force weighed on Allaer as he made sharp turns on the bumpy track bordered by walls. He topped out at 158 mph.

By Lily Belcher

a race. But it’s not the same as being in his car on the track.

“The thing you don’t get is the g-force and the sensation and speed,” he said.

On top of that, this was the longest race he had ever done. After his first practice run earlier that week, he felt like he was going to pass out. After the next practice and qualifying round to determine his starting place for the actual race, he focused on relaxing.

“It’s just kind of taking all that stress of of you and just doing what you have to do to last,” he said. Allaer finished in 14th place in his debut race. While he said he normally wouldn’t settle for that, he and his team were very happy with the results. It’s his first round in the series and his fastest lap was already just .3 seconds of the fastest time.

“We’re pretty thrilled with it,” he said.

Stay in touch with Nolan at https:// www.nolanallaer.com/ or at @Nolanallaer on IG.

The Bevis Elementary and Randall Middle School graduate, sponsored by Keel and Curley Farms and Martini, has been practicing with simulators in his apartment. It’s the only real way to prepare for

Bringing the community together for over 20 years, those at Keel Farms are excited to continue celebrating farming with everyone in the Tampa Bay area.

From camel rides to live entertainment, there is something for everyone at the Keel Farms Blueberry Festival.

Nolan Allaer placed 14th out of 21 racers in the St. Petersburg Indy NXT Race.

Nolan Allaer started his racing career early but found a passion for it when he got his license.

NEWSOME HIGH STUDENT BUILDS

GREENHOUSE AT RANDALL MIDDLE AND EARNS GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD

Macey Clay, a Newsome High School junior, recently finished building a greenhouse for Randall Middle School as part of the Girl Scouts of America. Clay has participated in the Girls Scouts for the last 12 years. During that time, she has earned the Bronze and Silver Awards, and just recently earned the Gold Award for this project.

By Ashley Abene

LIBRARIANS READ TO SHELTER ANIMALS FOR PAWS TO READ MONTH

The Gold Award is the highest award a Girl Scout can earn after completing a Gold Award project. The criteria for this project is for a Girl Scout to find and attempt to address a global issue that is important to her, then she needs to come up with a plan, while working within her community, to become a part of the solution. At least 80 service hours must be committed to the project as well.

Completed in mid-January, Clay’s Gold Award project, entitled ‘Greenhouse for Green Thumbs,’ raised funds and built a 12-by-30-foot greenhouse for the Randall Middle School Future Farmers of America (FFA). She also held climate challenge workshops for 75 local Girl Scouts, which, when completed, would make those girls eligible for their Climate Challenge badge. This greenhouse is located inside the land lab at Randall Middle School. Brittany

Andrews, Randall agricultural teacher and Clay’s project advisor, will maintain the greenhouse, as well as her students. Andrews will use this greenhouse as part of her curriculum to teach students how to grow plants in a controlled environment. Students who participate in the Strawberry Festival can grow their plants in this greenhouse as well.

Clay stated of her project, “I chose to help the environment and educate others on the negative efects of climate change, including what we can do in our own communities to be better stewards of the environment. The culminating piece of my project was building a greenhouse for the FFA and agricultural programs at Randall Middle School. In addition to learning the value of hard work, speaking in public and working with adults in the community, completing my Gold Award project is proof that I can and have made a diference. This award opens up opportunities for scholarships, preferred admission tracks for college and future career opportunities, as it is an award only five percent of Girl Scouts successfully earn.”

To find a local Girl Scout troop or find out more about its award programs, visit its website at www.gswcf.org.

March was National Paws to Read Month, and on March 14 a few members of Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library’s Early Literacy Team collaborated with the Pet Resource Center (PRC) sta f to read to shelter animals in celebration of literacy initiative.

The idea behind Paws to Read is to improve the literacy skills of children by reading to shelter cats and dogs. The librarians modeled the reading activity to show kids that it can be a fun, positive experience. Choosing children’s books with dog and cat characters added to the fun for the librarians.

Animals provide a comforting presence for young or struggling readers as they work to strengthen literacy skills.

“Some of the benefits of reading aloud to animals include feeling more comfortable about reading, boosting confidence, expanding vocabulary and reading comprehension, increasing positive attitudes toward both reading and school and improving working memory and strengthening fluency. The event with the county’s library sta f and Pet Resource Center really is a win-win partnership because the animals provide a safe, judgment-free presence for struggling readers while the children help socialize

the animals,” explained Allison Wever, administrative librarian.

The Pet Resource Center offers a few other opportunities for kids to engage with shelter animals under adult supervision. Pawditions is a program where you can keep a pet at home for a few weeks before choosing to finalize the adoption.

Adventure Tails is another program at the PRC. Adventure Tails volunteers take dogs out for a half day or full day. This gives dogs a chance to get out of their kernels and have a break from the chaos of shelter living. The time away gives the animals the social stimulations and emotional comfort they don’t get in a crowded shelter.

The PRC is located at 440 N. Falkenburg Rd. in Tampa.

The Tampa-Hillsborough County Library system regularly offers a variety of early literacy programs, including Baby Story Time, Toddler Time, Story Time, Family Story Time, and Bilingual Story Time. You can check out the calendar at https://hcplc.org/events to find a program near you or visit the YouTube page at www.youtube.com/ user/tampahillslib to watch a Story Time event virtually.

Macey Clay in front of the fnished greenhouse at Randall Middle School.

Macey Clay held climate change workshops for local girl scouts to help them earn their Climate Challenge badge.

Members of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library’s Early Literacy Team recently read to some furry friends at the Pet Resource Center as part of National Paws to Read Month.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CHILDREN’S SERVICES RECENTLY HOSTED A SAFE PLACE AWARENESS EVENT

Whether they’ve had a fight with their parents or are fleeing domestic abuse in their home, kids and teens without a place to go can visit a Safe Place location in Hillsborough County to get assistance.

Hillsborough County Children’s Services recently hosted a Safe Place event for community partners and those interested in becoming a Safe Place.

National Safe Place Week in March helped to raise awareness about the vital program that provides kids, ages 10-17, who are in crisis access to immediate support services. With nearly 200 Safe Place locations throughout Hillsborough County, including fire stations and libraries, kids will see the recognizable yellow-and-black “Safe Place” sign and know they are in a safe place. If kids have access to a mobile phone, they can also text SAFE with their location to 4HELP and within seconds receive a message with the closest Safe Place site and the phone number to Children’s Services.

The program has been managed by Hillsborough County Children’s Services for over 30 years. Staf at Safe Place locations are trained to call Children’s Services, which will send a qualified staf member to the location to talk with the youth in need. If necessary, they will provide transportation to the Children’s Services campus in Tampa so the child can receive professional support services.

“Safe Place provides a much-needed safety net for youth that are experiencing crisis at home, homelessness or who feel that running away is their only option. As

Staf Report

the Safe Place agency, HC Children’s Services provides a safe environment for the youth, along with therapy, while providing wraparound services for the family to stabilize the home,” explained Safe Place coordinator Doris Gillette.

Hillsborough County Children’s Services recently hosted a Safe Place Awareness Event for community partners who make the program possible and provide information to organizations interested in becoming a Safe Place location. Community partners, including the sherif ’s ofce, attended the event, where they also learned more about how to help kids who find themselves in a situation where they would need a safe place.

“The benefit of having more Safe Place locations is that community involvement is key to helping keep our youth safe from the crisis they may be experiencing at home. Especially those businesses and restaurants that have 24-hour access,” said Gillette.

To become a Safe Place site in Hillsborough County, interested businesses should contact Gillette at Children’s Services to schedule an initial assessment.

Children’s Services continues to work to raise awareness about the Safe Place program so both kids and adults know about this vital safety net.

To learn more about the program and how to get involved, visit www.hcfl.gov/ safeplace.

NEWSOME STUDENTS WIN USF SELMON BRIDGE BUILDING COMPETITION

Two student teams from Newsome High School secured first and second place at this year’s USF-Selmon Bridge Building Competition.

After months of preparation, 30 teams from the state met in February for the competition hosted by the University of South Florida (USF) and the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA). The teams worked to design a bridge made out of balsa wood with the goal of withstanding the most weight and pressure before collapsing.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

gional STEM Fair, where several projects advanced to the State STEM Fair and the upcoming Science Olympiad States at the University of Florida.

Notably, a project by students Michael Hemingway, Savin Karki and Casey Ayers received the prestigious USF Top Innovator Award for their achievements in innovation. Additionally, Newsome High School’s STEM enthusiasts recently competed at the SeaPerch ROV Competition at the University of Central Florida, securing a remarkable second place.

The team of Newsome students in first place includes Ava Gasbarro, Jacob Dusnik and Jeremy Temple, with an impressive 248 pounds of pressure. The team in second place, including Muyao Guan, Niki Bordas and David Bordas, recorded 246 pounds of pressure on its bridge.

“It was really rewarding to win because we built all of this from scratch and learned how to design, blueprint, work around problems and find solutions on the way,” says Guan, bridge building team captain.

The top teams received awards from THEA and invitations to the 2024 Florida Automated Vehicles (FAV) Summit, where students will receive a guided tour and a sneak peek into the future of transportation.

Newsome High School’s engagement in competitions extends beyond bridge building. The STEM club members actively participate in events like the Hillsborough Re-

“As the science department chair and STEM Club sponsor, it is refreshing to see these students work many hours designing, building, testing, analyzing and adjusting their designs,” said Brain Clark, chemistry instructor at Newsome High School. “The teams are completely student-led; I simply purchase supplies and teach them how to safely use tools in my lab two days a week after school.”

Guided by mentors like Clark, the students dedicate extensive hours to their innovations. The success of Newsome High School students serves as inspiration for aspiring young scientists and engineers. With their dedication and determination, these students pave the way to a brighter future for all students.

For more information, please contact the Tampa Highway Expressway Authority at 813-272-6740 or Newsome High School at 813-740-4600.

Newsome High School students are excited to continue participating in STEM competitions after many were canceled due to COVID-19.

BLOOMINGDALE GRADUATE SHINES ON FOX ON SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE SHOW

Bloomingdale High School

2023 graduate Dakayla Wilson received three resounding ‘yeses’ from the judges on the television show So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD) after her audition, which aired on Fox on March 4.

SYTYCD is a reality television dance competition show where dancers move through rounds of competitions vying for a chance to be “America’s favorite dancer.”

Wilson’s journey to being on the 18th season of the show began when she started training as a gymnast at Golden City Gymnastics in Brandon. She enrolled in dance classes to help with her floor routine, but it was not long before dancing took her heart. By her freshman year at Bloomingdale, she was training at 5th Dimension Dance Center of Lithia Pinecrest Road.

Wilson credits her 5th Dimension jazz teacher, Arielle Holder, for being her biggest mentor.

“She was really the one who influenced me a lot to be a better version of myself,” Wilson stated.

Wilson said her style is a fusion of jazz and contemporary dance mixed together. The judges on SYTYCD praised her as a versatile dancer, noting how she gracefully showcased her gymnastic skills.

By Jane Owen

Judge Allison Holker said, “The best performers on So You Think You Can Dance are individuals who can dance in any style and captivate through their movement. That’s why I fell in love with you right now.”

On March 21, while Wilson was visiting Bloomingdale, she led master classes at 5th Dimension with students she used to be on dance team with while her former instructor looked on. 5th Dimension owner Alexis Johnson said that her fearless nature has transcended through the classes.

“From the beginning, from the first day we saw her, we knew there was something about her that was super special. Everyone else now gets to see what we’ve seen. She’s a really fearless, strong and powerful dancer and person,” Holder said.

Wilson’s long-term goal is to go on tour and travel. Her advice for young dancers is to be authentic.

“I just say, be yourself. Don’t hold anything back. Don’t try to be someone you are not. It will come across, no matter who you come in contact with, if you are genuine or not,” Wilson said.

New episodes of SYTYCD air on FOX every Monday through May 6 at 9 p.m. EST.

EARLY INTERVENTION FOR BABIES DEVELOPMENT AND FEDERAL HELP

Every baby develops at their own pace. But sometimes developmental delays happen; it could be caused by a condition or a developmental concern. When a baby has a developmental delay, it’s important to get help early. However, it’s difcult to know where to turn for help, and help can be expensive. Early Steps is an early intervention program that is federally and state funded, that ofers free help to caregivers of children from birth to 36 months of age.

Early Steps is a federally and state funded program for children 0-3 years old.

Dr. Emily Shaffer-Hudkins, Bay Area Early Steps director, stated of the program, “Early Steps is meant to empower caregivers and parents. It is an educational model and is meant to teach families in the home or classroom how to build on and help your baby to continue developing and hit his or her milestones.”

There are 15 Early Steps programs in Florida. However, the University of South Florida’s Bay Area Early Steps manages both Hillsborough and Polk counties. Early Steps has a variety of services and interventions that can help with a baby’s needs, such as: in-home therapies (speech, occupational or physical therapy), assistive technology and hearing and vision services.

To apply for Early Steps, a referral needs

By Ashley Abene

to be put in through the Florida Early Steps website.

Next, an Early Steps afliate will call the parent/caregiver to conduct an intake phone call, decide on a family-based support plan as well as discuss an in-person or telehealth evaluation of the baby. Finally, a full developmental evaluation is conducted with a multidisciplinary team, the family and the child. If it is determined during the evaluation that there is a developmental delay and the baby needs some help from Early Steps, the coordinator will find and organize coverage of appropriate help for that child. Income is not a factor for eligibility.

Whitney Howard, a physical therapist (MPT) at an Early Steps provider called Total Therapy in Riverview, shared her experience: “Early Steps is instrumental in helping to connect families with the support they need to address any developmental concerns. The program empowers parents with the knowledge and tools of how to work with their children during daily routines to accomplish their goals. The team approach among the providers and parents really maximizes outcomes.”

For more information, visit https://floridaearlysteps.com/.

Convenient Health Care Under One Roof

Dakayla Wilson with 5th Dimension Dance Center master classes on March 21.

Te University of South Florida’s Bay Area Early Steps program can provide early intervention for developmental concerns of babies.

DNA TECHNOLOGY SOLVES 1985 GIBSONTON COLD CASE

When law enforcement investigations come to a dead end and cases turn cold, it’s often just a matter of time until crime-fighting technology advances to a point where evidence holding the secrets to an unsolved case can be reveal them, even decades later.

That’s the circumstances surrounding a cold case from 1985, in which the remains of an unidentified man were discovered on May 24 near Adamsville Road in the Gibsonton area.

Authorities determined he died from a self-inflicted gunshot to the head but not much else, even though collected evidence included clothing and personal items that were found nearby.

Further investigation to discover the deceased person’s identity yielded no useful information. Forensic science at that time was developed enough to produce a drawing recreating the facial features of the individual, but it was not enough to produce adequate leads, and the case was entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, a national information clearinghouse and resource center for missing, unidentified and unclaimed person cases.

That’s where the case remained, but over the past four decades forensic science has developed new investigative tools, including the ability to determine an individual’s identity from genetic material, such as skeletal remains.

As part of its efort to solve cold cas-

By Brad Stager

es, the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Office (HCSO) provided genetic material to a biotechnology company called Othram. The company uses genetic genealogy, which combines DNA testing and traditional genealogical methods to create profiles that can reveal biological relationships between people. In forensic investigations, this technology can be used to identify the remains or perpetrators of a crime, as well as genetic traits.

An analysis by Othram of the material provided HCSO investigators with information that allowed them to pursue leads which led them to Knoxville, Tennessee, and the family of Charles Allen Ray, a veteran who was born in 1936 and honorably served in the United States Navy. Their missing family member had been found.

Closing the case prompted remarks from Sherif Chad Chronister, who praised the investigators’ diligence in this and ongoing cold cases.

“The resolution of this cold case is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our investigators and the advancements in forensic technology. We are committed to bringing justice and closure to the families afected by unsolved cases, no matter how much time has passed.”

Funding to pay for Othram’s genetic genealogy services was provided by a grant from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE AS A DETENTION DEPUTY FOR HCSO ARE AVAILABLE

Busting alleged criminals whose actions break laws and harm the community is only the first step to ensuring law and order prevail over crime and anarchy in Hillsborough County.

Once taken into custody, the detention process begins for those suspected of crimes, and whether the stay is brief or extended the responsibility for the security and safety of those staying in Hillsborough County jails rests with the detention deputies of the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce (HCSO).

Recruitment of these law enforcement professionals is ongoing through job fairs and announcements on the HCSO website and social media platforms.

Applicants to be a detention deputy trainee must be at least 19 years old. Other basic requirements include having a high school diploma or its equivalent, as well as a driver’s license. Background screening includes a review of applicable diplomas, certificates, transcripts and military records. Other qualifications include not using illegal drugs within the past 36 months (no marijuana within the last 12 months) and no illegal drug sales during the applicant’s lifetime. No tobacco or nicotine use within the past six months is permitted. Face, head and neck tattoos are not allowed. Any felony convictions are disqualifying, as are mis-

By Brad Stager

demeanor convictions that involve perjury or domestic violence.

The HCSO website lists the salary for a detention deputy trainee as $28.85 an hour, with benefits also provided.

Detention deputy duties include supervising inmates and conducting inspections with the ability to maintain professional composure in a hostile environment.

The training cycle is 22 weeks long and at the end of it there is a graduation ceremony, such as the one held on February 27 at ARISE Church in Brandon, an occasion upon which Sherif Chad Chronister commented, “It’s an honor to see so many individuals who want to dedicate their lives to serve and protect our community and that they have decided to start their career at Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce. These remarkable cadets are ready to be part of HCSO and have learned from the best training division Florida has to ofer. The Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce training academy ensured these new deputies have the best tools and training possible to protect our county.”

People interested in learning more about applying to be a detention deputy trainee and other jobs at HCSO can do so by visiting www.teamhcso.com.

A composite graphic released by the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce showing illustrations derived from forensic analysis and two portraits of Charles Allen Ray, one showing him as a young sailor and the other taken later in life.

An aerial view of the Falkenburg Road Jail from the Hillsborough County Sherif ’s Ofce (HCSO) website. Te jail is one of the potential workplaces for HCSO detention deputies.

By Nitish Rele

So, what if it is a midsize luxury SUV or, to use the BMW term, a Sports Activity Vehicle? You can still take it to the track if you purchase the insanely quick X5 M Competition. Or just cruise the highway. That’s right, this high-performance SUV is road and track worthy. And with a massive power train to boot, the Bimmer is super-fast: 0 to 60 in 3.7 seconds with top speed of 155 or 177 mph with the M Driver’s Package.

and matte-black surround. Twin exhaust tips in black chrome, 4 inches in diameter, are a standout along with red brake caliper wheels. As soon as we stepped into the airy and well-appointed cabin, our eyes fell on the massive BMW curved display (12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 14.9inch infotainment touch screen). Further adding to the rich ambiance were touches of carbon fiber trim. Red accents for the M buttons on the solid leather steering wheel and gear selector are eye-catching, as is the ambient light bar across the dashboard. Other niceties include multizone auto AC, power front heated/cooled Merino leather seats with the M logo on the backrests, a panoramic moonroof, a head-up display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

A new 4.4-liter twin-power turbocharged V8-cylinder engine blasts of 617 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 553 poundsfeet of torque at 5,500 rpm. It is aided by a 48-volt battery placed in the transmission casing. Essentially, the electric motor with 12 horsepower and 147 pounds-feet of torque acts as a starter-generator. The X5 is mated to a standard and flawless eight-speed auto gearbox, which is even more fun with transfers via the steering paddle shifters. The standard adaptive M suspension is specially tuned to enhance nimbleness and poise when pushing pedal to the metal. The Active M Diferential distributes drive torque evenly to the rear axle for more control and stability. You can personalize settings for engine, transmission, steering, suspension, brake and M xDrive as per your taste, style and liking. And the M Servotronic electric power steering with variable sport has a solid and communicative feel, keeping the SUV straight and watchful at sharp turns and curves.

Slim LED headlights flank the familiar twin-kidney grille with BMW M emblem

Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, front knee and side curtain airbags, dynamic stability and traction control, four-wheel antilock brakes, electronic brake distribution, a rearview camera, front/rear park distance control, active braking assist (lane departure warning, blind-spot monitor/detect, rearcross trafc alert, city collision mitigation), forward collision warning, daytime running lights and a tire pressure monitor.

Weighing almost 5,500 pounds, the BMW X M Competition is German engineering at its finest. And fastest. And every once in a while, if you can, switch on the track mode (road and sport also offered) and take the speedy machine for a gutsy drive.

REBUILDING YOUR ESTATE PLAN AFTER DIVORCE

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

After divorce, the last thing anyone wants is to find themselves back in a lawyer’s office. However, there’s a common misconception that the divorce decree resolves all estate planning issues. Sadly, this leaves gaps that could cause chaos for your heirs should something happen to you. Protect yourself and your loved ones by taking proactive steps.

Why Your Divorce Isn’t a Substitute for Estate Planning Updates

While your divorce handles asset division and may address spousal support, it often doesn’t go far enough regarding the following:

• Beneficiary Changes: Many of your accounts, insurance policies and perhaps even old wills may remain with your ex-spouse as the designated beneficiary. While Florida has laws that terminate an ex-spouse’s rights, failing to update these can lead to unintended consequences and conflicts down the line.

• Health Care Directives and Powers of Attorney: Divorce removes your ex’s powers as a decision-maker in case of your incapacity. However, updating your documents and appointing new people ensures someone you trust has authority to act.

• New Will or Trust Structures: If you have children (especially minors), creating or updating wills and trusts is crucial. Ensuring clear guardianship provisions and inheritance structures avoids court battles over your afairs.

What if I Want My Ex-spouse To Have My Life Insurance or Retirement Account?

In most cases, a divorce in Florida terminates the ex-spouse’s designation as beneficiary. If you want your ex-spouse to have a life insurance policy or retirement accounts, you must update those beneficiary designa-

tions after a divorce. And, if you still want them to have decision-making responsibilities, you will most definitely need to update your estate planning documents (because the ex-spouse will not have any rights under your estate planning documents after you are divorced).

Meeting with a Brandon Estate Planning Lawyer Provides Solutions

If you have recently gone through a divorce, make sure to check in with a local estate planning lawyer, even just for your own peace of mind. We are here to help review your old documents and help you create a plan that better aligns with this new stage of your life, including:

• Complete beneficiary reviews and updates across all retirement, investment and insurance accounts.

• Crafting new wills or trust documents that reflect your desired asset distribution, ensuring children’s interests are protected.

• Establishing necessary healthcare proxy documents with current names, avoiding your ex making medical decisions for you.

Your Post-divorce Reset

No matter how amicable the separation, divorce puts your future into your own hands again. Seeking guidance with our Brandon estate planning lawyers is an act of self-care, providing protection for yourself and the people you love. If you have questions or you are ready to take the next step, please feel free to reach out to us, the Law Ofces of Laurie E. Ohall, P.A., to schedule an appointment. Simply call 813-438-8503.

Laurie Ohall is a Florida board-certifed 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.

households.

Applications for homeowners seeking roof replacement will be available beginning April 10, 2024, and will remain available until all funds are exhausted. For further detail and eligibility requirements, please contact one of the following agencies:

FLORIDA SPRINGS: YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Staf Report

Q: What is a spring?

A: A spring occurs when groundwater that is under pressure flows through natural cracks in the aquifer and creates a natural opening in the ground. The pressure causes the water to flow from the aquifer to the earth’s surface. Our groundwater is the result of seasonal rainfall that soaks into the ground and into the aquifer. Springs can occur as an individual vent but more often as many spring vents, known as a spring group.

Q: What is a springshed?

A: A springshed is an area of land that captures rainwater and supplies the groundwater to a spring. A springshed can be quite large. For example, the Rainbow Springs Group has a springshed that covers several hundred square miles and extends into three counties. The water travel time in a springshed to the spring can vary from hours to several decades, but this water will eventually flow out of the spring vent. It is often said that a spring is only as healthy as its springshed because actions that occur many miles away can have a direct efect on the health of the spring and the water flowing from it.

Q: Why are springs important?

A: Florida’s springs and their associated rivers and bays provide ecological, economic, recreational, and aesthetic value to the state. A spring’s rivers and bays can provide activities like swimming, kayaking and nature watching, to name a few. The Florida Springs Coast provides the largest natural warm-water refuge in the United States for the Florida manatee, with seasonal numbers in the hundreds. People come from around the world to visit these gentle crea-

tures, resulting in a large economic impact for the surrounding communities.

Q: How can I help protect Florida’s springs at home?

A: Springs are often called windows to the aquifer because the water that flows out of them came directly from the aquifer and therefore should be protected. What we do in the springshed impacts the springs even if we don’t live close to a spring. Limit fertilizer use because excess fertilizer can seep into the aquifer. Inspect your septic tank every few years, as tanks that are not properly maintained can pollute the aquifer. Never dump anything down a storm drain and always dispose of grass clippings, litter, motor oil and pet waste properly to avoid these items entering stormwater ponds. Encourage a native plant bufer zone between your lawn and the shoreline to help filter stormwater if you live along a water body. Always dispose of hazardous household chemicals, such as industrial cleaners, solvents, automotive fluids and paints, at an approved facility. Remember that if hazardous contaminants seep into the aquifer, both our drinking water and springs can be impacted.

Q: How can I help protect Florida’s springs while visiting them?

A: While swimming and snorkeling, please make sure to avoid disturbing the plants and wildlife. Try to stay in your vessel, if possible. Don’t climb trees or use rope swings, as these can damage the shoreline vegetation.

Madison Trowbridge, Ph.D., Springs Scientist Dr. Madison Trowbridge is the springs scientist and Springs Team lead for the Southwest Florida Water Management District. She holds a Ph.D. in cell and molecular biology from the University of South Florida and her doctoral research focused on subsurface microbial ecology near Weeki Wachee.

Brandon

Did you know that the Rotary Club of Brandon has been serving their local community since 1961? Their most recent Wild Game Dinner, held on March 1, drew over 600 attendees. This signature event included meals of gator, moose, venison, quail and wild hog, raising over $100,000 and benefiting local organizations like ECHO, High 5 Inc., Rotary’s Camp Florida, the Brandon Rotary Club Charity Fund and more. The club is also accepting scholarship applications for high school seniors. For more information, visit www.brandonrotary.org.

S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. For more information, email info@brandon86rotary.com.

Interact Club Of Tampa Bay (High School Students)

Come find out about local volunteer opportunities for high schoolers through the Interact Club of Tampa Bay. The next meeting will be on Monday, May 6, from 6-8 PM at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. All area high school students are invited and food will be provided. Contact: Chad Norgard, chad@norgardinsgrp.com

Brandon South Global Eco

FishHawk-Riverview

The Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview is accepting scholarship applications for high school seniors who have been accepted into a two or four-year college/university or accredited trade school. Any high school graduating senior whose home school would be Newsome, Riverview, Spoto or Durant is eligible to apply by Friday, April 19. Applications for rising high school seniors to attend the Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders are open and due by Saturday, April 20. On Monday, May 6, join in for guest speaker Elizabeth Richardson with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay from 12 Noon-1 p.m. at Gasparilla Pizzeria & Growlers. The event is free. Attend to hear about the 24/7 services that the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay provides to ensure no one in our community has to face crisis alone.

Brandon ’86

The Brandon ’86 Rotary Club meets on Fridays from 8-9 a.m. at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007

Looking for a way to make a diference from home? The Brandon South Global Eco Rotary Club meets via Zoom on the second and fourth Mondays of each month from 6-7 p.m. to discuss environmental education and ecological-friendly projects focused on sustainability. For more information, contact Bruno Kazenas at 813-263-7062 or bkazenas@comcast.net.

USF Rotaract (College Students)

On March 17, the USF Rotaract group worked on ‘Missing Maps,’ a project started by Doctors Without Borders and the Red Cross where they map out and create geographic information systems (GIS) of remote areas of the world currently undergoing emergencies. Prior to March 17, the group mapped out Darfur, Sudan, to help set up refugee camps for those escaping the genocide there. On Saturday, April 27, USF Rotaract will help to sort and pack food donations at Feeding Tampa Bay’s headquarters. For more information, visit https:// bullsconnect.usf.edu/rotaract/home/ or Instagram @usf_rotary.

A KID’S PLACE RECEIVES $50,000 GRANT AFTER STAFFER IS NAMED LIGHTNING COMMUNITY HERO

By Libby Hopkins

In 2011, Lightning owner Jef Vinik, along with his wife, Penny, launched the program as a collaboration with the Vinik Family Foundation and the Lightning Foundation to celebrate deserving heroes and distribute funding to nonprofits throughout the Tampa Bay community.

Recently, A Kid’s Place employee Sharon Alvarez was honored as the recipient. She is a youth counselor at A Kid’s Place and loves working with the children at the local nonprofit.

“I’m known for my cooking,” Alvarez said. “The kids love when I cook and always want to help when I do cook for them. When a new child comes into A Kid’s Place, I ask them what they like to eat, and I do my best to make it for them. It’s a way for me to get the child to open up.”

Since it was established in 2011, the Lightning Community Heroes program has been honored to celebrate a local hero and donate $50,000 to a nonprofit charity

of its choice at each home game, where celebrating the community heroes has become a beloved signature moment. To date, the program has honored more than 575 heroes and distributed more than $31M to nearly 750 unique nonprofits.

Alvarez did not know she was nominated for the Tampa Bay Lightning Community Heroes Award.

“I had no idea I had been nominated for the award,” Alvarez said. “I was at a staf meeting where I got an award for being at A Kid’s Place for 15 years. When they told me I won. I had no clue.”

Alvarez was truly honored to be nominated.

“I was happy just to be honored at A Kid’s Place with the 15 years of service award,” Alvarez said. “It was amazing winning the Hero Award. The ultimate prize was that A Kid’s Place was presented with $50,000 that will help our organization.”

For more information about the Tampa Bay Lightning Community Heroes Award, visit their website at www.nhl.com/lightning/community/community-heroes. For more information about A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay, visit https://akidsplacetb.org.

Local resident and A Kid’s Place youth counselor Sharon Alvarez was a recent recipient of the Tampa Bay Lightning Community Heroes Award.

FIVE NEW CHIMPANZEES SWING INTO SPRING AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY

On March 8, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay welcomed five new chimpanzees to its existing troop of two, creating the largest troop in Central Florida. The new troop is made up of three males and two females ranging in age from 9-28. They will enjoy a half-acre habitat filled with climbing structures, hammocks and multiple elevations while giving guests full viewing access through various windows into the exhibit.

Several times each day, guests can see Busch Gardens’ keepers working with the new troop in training sessions. These sessions stimulate the chimpanzees mentally while allowing keepers to get to know each animal individually and build their bond. This also helps to prepare the chimpanzees for routine wellness exams.

Chimpanzees are omnivorous frugivores — that means they love to dine on fruits, roots, nuts, leaves, plants, flowers, insects and some meats. At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the Nutrition Center prepares over 100 pounds of produce for the troop every day, measuring, hand-cutting and assembling meals customized to each chimpanzee’s specific diet. The keepers make sure that each chimpanzee is presented with the correct meal and provide them with nutritional snacks and browse for them to forage throughout the day.

Staf Report

Since its inception in 2003, the Busch Gardens Conservation Fund has been a champion of worldwide wildlife protection. Through merchandise purchases, guests can directly contribute to this vital program, supporting critical initiatives such as rescue and rehabilitation, conservation education, habitat protection and species research.

Being a pass holder allows guests 12 months of unlimited visits to see the new chimps along with unbeatable benefits, including exclusive members-only events, plus savings on food, merchandise and more. Another great way to enjoy all that Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has to ofer is with a Fun Card, which ofers unlimited visits through the end of 2024.

Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, ofering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gardens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA-accredited zoo with over 16,000 animals representing more than 200 species and exciting seasonal events all year providing unrivaled experiences for guests of every age.

To learn more and purchase a pass, Fun Card or tickets, guests can visit https:// buschgardens.com/tampa/.

570 ATHLETES COMPETE AT THE EIGHTH ANNUAL INCREDIBULL GAMES

In 1968, just before the first Special Olympics International Games, Eunice Kennedy Shriver jotted down the Special Olympics athlete oath: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

On February 23, 570 special education students from 18 schools competed with determination in the eighth annual IncrediBULL Games at Bloomingdale High School. The IncrediBULL Games are a Special Olympics field day event co-hosted by Bloomingdale and Newsome high schools.

Greeted by the Bloomingdale drumline and cheerleaders from both schools, the athletes were celebrated from the moment they got of the buses. After the opening ceremonies, they spent the day competing in track, soccer and field events. The athletes played games at ‘Olympic Village’ booths stafed by student clubs. Student volunteers, called buddies, were paired with athletes as companions for the day.

Event coordinator Donna Hart loves the inclusion and friendship the day promotes.

“The IncrediBULL Games event continues to be my favorite day of the year. The excitement, from both the athletes and the student volunteers, is beyond measure. It is a day for fun and, more importantly, friendship,” Hart said.

Hart started the games in 2015 (a year

By Jane Owen

was skipped due to COVID-19) when she was a teacher at Bloomingdale. Hart currently works at Newsome. Both schools work together to create an amazing day for the student athletes. Bloomingdale Principal Dr. Marcos Rodriguez and Newsome Principal Katie Rocha are grateful for the collaboration.

“As principal, the highlight of the event for me is seeing our athletes bond with their buddy throughout the day while they perform in their events and have a great time in the Olympic Village,” Rodriguez said.

“True strength encompasses the fusion of courage, kindness and unity. The IncrediBULLS event shines a light on these virtues, sparking our shared determination to conquer new challenges through resilience and collaboration.” Rocha said.

The 2024 IncrediBULL Games was the largest yet with 570 athletes. Volunteers included 850 student volunteers from Bloomingdale and Newsome as well as community volunteers from MacDill Air Force Base, the Knights of Columbus and the Special Olympics.

“A special thank you to Sue Burkett, chief of schools, for supporting the idea to start the IncrediBULL Games nine years ago. She helped to build a community of inclusion for all students and her legacy continues to this day through the IncrediBULL Games,” Hart said.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay recently welcomed fve new chimpanzees to its troop of two.

From left to right: Patti Rendon, Hillsborough County Public Schools board member; Sue Burkett, chief of schools; and Bloomingdale Principal Dr. Rodriguez at the IncrediBULL Games on February 23.

We are very thankful for having the honor to serve all of Central Florida with your Real Estate needs. We have the best clients in the world and we appreciate all of you!

Cindy A.

Valery I.

Natalee M.

Absolutely the best team of people. Searched around for realtors until Bill came along, he made the experience of selling my home so easy and was always so quick to answer any questions I had in regards to anything and gave me all information I needed to make this process as smooth as possible.

Team Outings

My wife and I loved working with the Tony Baroni Team. Chris is absolutely wonderful to work with. He always answered all of our questions, guided us throughout the entire process, and very knowledgeable in what he is doing. Nothing was too hard, and he was very patient with us. We enjoyed working with Chris, Ashley, and the rest of the team who contributed on helping buying our home! I would defnitely recommend working with the Tony Baroni Team 100000% time , you will not be disappointed. Thank you so much!

This was the 2nd time my husband and I utilized Craig and his team. It’s because they were incredibly effcient, professional and so easy to work with. During what could be a stressful time, the process was seamless and stressfree. Also, I appreciated the constant communication and response time to any inquiries we had. I would absolutely recommend he and his team for your buying/selling needs.

Anabel M.

Hands down the best team ever!! Our realtor, Kate, and the rest of the Tony Baroni team were exceptional. They all made this process stress free. Yes, I said stress free!! Kate was so communicative and always responded quickly. Special thanks to Heidi, Ashley, and Gretchen for all their help. I highly recommend choosing this team; they will make your dreams of buying a home come true!

Canine Cabana is being featured on World’s Greatest!… , a national television show on Bloomberg TV, after being selected by How 2 Media as a company that provides superior care and unique services to local dog families.

CANINE CABANA FEATURED AS ‘WORLD’S GREATEST’ PET CARE RESORT

“World’s Greatest!… is proud to have selected Canine Cabana to be featured. Angie and Kendall are amazing people, and thanks to their backgrounds they truly have impacted the pet care industry in so many ways,” stated Josh Kessler, COO.

As former zookeepers at Busch Gardens, owners Angie Pickren and Kendall Duncan combined their animal care and behavioral expertise with their passion for dogs and have dedicated 16 years to improving the lives of dogs and the bonds they share with their families. Angie and Kendall are leaders in the pet care industry and actively support other local businesses and charities in the community. They are proud to have won the 2023 Large Business of the Year Award from the Valrico/ Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce. They employ a team of over 30 loving, highly trained pet care professionals and provide an engaging workplace as well as playtime interactions and customized services for every guest that visits for day care,

Staf Report

lodging, training or grooming.

The three-minute World’s Greatest!… segment will feature a behind-thescenes look at all the services Canine Cabana

ofers, as well as interviews with Duncan, Pickren and Canine Cabana’s facility manager, Kayla Tritchler. Pet parent Kimberly Evans will also share her experience as a long-term client at Canine Cabana. First aired on March 30, the next air date is Saturday, April 13, at 2 p.m.

Canine Cabana’s mission is to provide a safe, active, and healthy recreational environment for dogs to meet their physical and behavioral needs while improving the quality of life for both dogs and the families who love them. Canine Cabana is the area’s premier pet care resort, ofering Overnight Lodging, fun Doggie Daycare, engaging Enrichment Daycare, Grooming, and Training. Canine Cabana provides award-winning, superior care and a stateof-the-art facility, including more than 2 1/2 acres of beautiful outdoor play yards. All of that produces what their clients want most – happy, healthy pets.

Canine Cabana is located at 9708 Carr Rd. in Riverview. For more information, visit https://caninecabana.biz/.

FLORIDA SHERIFFS ASSOCIATION AND STATE FARM COMMIT TO IMPROVING TEEN DRIVING

The Florida Sherifs Association (FSA) is pleased to announce that State Farm has generously granted $75,000 to the Teen Driver Challenge, an educational course that provides training to teenage drivers. The program plays a vital contribution in protecting Florida’s teen drivers and everyone else on the roadway. State Farm has granted a total of $985,000 to the program since 2011.

State Farm recently granted the Florida Sherifs Association’s Teen Driver Challenge $75,000. It has been a sponsor of the program since 2011.

“We want to express our appreciation to State Farm for their commitment to fostering responsible driving habits among young individuals,” said Florida Sherifs Association President and Nassau County Sherif Bill Leeper. “State Farm’s strategic partnership is instrumental in our eforts to empower more young drivers and amplify the positive influence of the Teen Driver Challenge.”

At the request of Florida’s sherifs, the Teen Driver Challenge was created in 2007 to lower the high crash and fatality rate of young drivers. It’s the largest commercial driving school in Florida and is ofered to teens at no charge. The cost to run this program is covered by grants from State Farm and contributions from local sherif ’s ofces. Instructors are certified law enforcement ofcers with accreditations from the State of Florida Division of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, under the Florida Sherifs Association’s State of Florida Commercial

Driving School License. The program is currently available in more than 42 counties and coming to additional ones soon.

“By learning from certified law enforcement ofcers, student drivers not only gain essential driving skills but also benefit from the expertise and insights of those who prioritize safety on a professional level,” said Jose Soto, State Farm corporate responsibility analyst. “That is one of the main reasons State Farm has been a proud supporter of the Florida Sherifs Association Teen Driver Challenge for the past 13 years.”

The importance of the Teen Driver Challenge is supported by statistics. According to the Center for Disease Control, teens are involved in three times as many fatality crashes as other drivers. Vehicle accidents are the leading cause of these fatality crashes. The Teen Driver Challenge aims to lower this rate by empowering teens with safe driving knowledge and practices. More than 2,000 students successfully complete the challenge in Florida each year.

For more information on the Teen Driver Challenge, visit www.teendriverchallenge.com. Remember to like the Teen Driver Challenge page on Facebook and follow it on Instagram. To register for the program or find class o f erings in your area, please contact your local sheri f ’s o f ce.

Whether you are traveling to your local farmer’s market or your favorite restaurant, accidents can occur at any time.

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

• Access 24/7

• On-site physician 24/7

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

• 10,884 square feet

CONDE DERMATOLOGY

NOW OPEN IN NEW STATE OF THE ART OFFICE

Dr. Jennifer Conde and husband Jonathon Conde celebrated the grand opening of Conde Dermatology in March. Located just behind Comprehensive Center for Dermatology in the FishHawk area, this new location is a transition into a direct care practice as opposed to an insurance-based practice.

“Since we are primarily a direct care ofce, we bypass the bureaucracy associated with insurance companies and third parties,” Dr. Conde explained. “With direct care, patients have complete freedom to choose who they want to see when it comes to their medical care.”

Dr. Jennifer Conde invites area residents to her new practice, Conde Dermatology.

By Sharon Still

a patient’s overall physical and mental well-being is the most rewarding part of her job.

Medical, cosmetic, surgical and pediatric services are available, with the most popular services being for acne and wart treatment, skin cancer screenings and Botox. She added that photorejuvenation and laser hair removal with a new state-of-the-art laser device are also becoming frequently requested services.

The couple’s previous experience working with traditional health insurance at Comprehensive Center for Dermatology led to the transition.

“Medicine has become impersonal,” she said.

“A direct-pay practice allows us to serve the patients, not insurance companies or other third parties,” Dr. Conde added. The result is more time spent with the patient overall.

This is key for Dr. Conde, as she explained that getting to visually appreciate the results of a treatment and how it impacts

Dr. Conde said when it comes to your skin, hair and nails, it is important to see a board-certified dermatologist for the highest level of expertise and training.

Her number one tip for everyone is to wear sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater daily and make sure to reapply every hour or two when outside.

She added, “Skin cancer screening examinations can potentially save your life.”

Conde Dermatology is located at 5627 Skytop Dr. in Lithia. Its o f ce hours are 7 a.m.-2 p.m. on Monday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. from Tuesday through Thursday and 7 a.m.-3 p.m. on Friday. Visit the website www.condederm.com or call 813-5306511 for further information.

MISS TAMPA BAY SOFTBALL OFFERS COMPETITIVE TEAMS FOR YOUNG BALLPLAYERS

Miss Tampa Bay Softball (MTBS) has kicked of its 2024 season after a festive opening day and growing excitement for the rest of the year.

This season, almost 400 athletes have registered for the spring teams. This is a growth of over 200 percent across the last five years.

“I think this is due to the many opportunities and the competitive environment we are able to foster with the number of teams we have,” MTBS treasurer Josie Shaheen said.

MTBS, a nonprofit organization, is home to competitive teams from FishHawk, Apollo Beach, Plant City and Riverview. These teams give young athletes the opportunity “to increase their skills and stay close to home.”

In addition to advertising in the community, Shaheen credits part of the league’s growth to its popular munchkin division teams for daughters 3-4 years old.

On opening day, all 32 teams, including the munchkin team, walked the field for the parade. Six graduating seniors threw out the first pitch and a players’ chorus sang the National Anthem.

This season is dedicated to first responders and the armed services. They

By Lily Belcher

were honored during the opening day ceremony and will be honored at the closing ceremony as well.

“We chose first responders and armed services because we have a large number of volunteers who are both retired and active duty as well as active and former Police and Fire Fighters,” Shaheen stated.

The volunteer-run program will send 27 teams to the annual Miss Florida Mid-Season Tournament at the beginning of April.

“Mid-Season is an event that MTBS enjoys sending teams to every year. It’s a fantastic opportunity for our rec players to experience a competitive environment in a tournament setting,” Shaheen said.

The MTBS spring season will run through the beginning of May, with championship week beginning on Monday, April 29, and the closing ceremonies scheduled for Saturday, May 4.

MTBS is located at 11260 FishHawk Blvd. at the intersection of Bell Shoals Road and FishHawk Boulevard.

For more information about MTBS or to register for an upcoming season, visit www.mtbsfishhawk.com or its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/mtbsoftball.

Miss Tampa Bay Softball has almost 400 athletes registered this season.

RHONDA MCDANIEL CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF A CARING TOUCH COMPANY

Rhonda McDaniel started A Caring Touch Skin Therapy in 2004 to help people care for their skin. For 20 years, she has created all-natural, handmade products for the community and is now working alongside her granddaughters.

A Caring Touch Skin Therapy o f ers products that are safe to use on the youngest and most sensitive skin. McDaniel’s inspiration comes from her grandmother, who used natural, clean and holistic options “before it was a trend.”

She started her company after seeing her sister struggle with acne and wanted to help others in her community fight the same problem. Seeing her sister try di f erent products and visit doctors prompted her to use her company to help teens understand why they have acne and how they can treat it.

McDaniel has trained alongside biochemists, doctors and nurse practitioners as a licensed aesthetician to create safe products for her customers.

“A lot of people have allergies and sensitive skin, and we wanted our products to be all-natural,” she said.

After having a skin care facility for 13 years, she closed her doors to focus on time with her family and her on-

By Lily Belcher

line shop. Now, her granddaughters, Aniyah and Aliyah, help her sell all-natural soaps, lotions, lip balms and other skin care products.

“By incorporating my granddaughters’ help, that gives me time to spend with them and help them learn about the business as a whole,” McDaniel said.

A Caring Touch Skin Therapy allows users to shop by product or scent, which ranges from lavender to woodsy to peppermint options.

She occasionally sells her products in person at local farms, but the online format has given her the extra family time she was looking for. She has also been able to donate her products to local charities and nonprofits when there is a need.

To celebrate A Caring Touch Skin Therapy’s 20th anniversary in April, McDaniels is participating in a ribbon-cutting on Wednesday, April 10, and at the Business After Hours event on Wednesday, April 24, at the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce.

For more information on the history of A Caring Touch Skin Therapy or to purchase all-natural products from McDaniel’s store, visit https://actskintherapy.com/.

THIRD ANNUAL FIGHT LIKE JUNE TENNIS TOURNAMENT HOPES TO RAISE $100,000 FOR COLON CANCER RESEARCH

The third annual Fight Like June Tennis Tournament will take place on Saturday and Sunday, April 2021, at the River Hills Country Club in Valrico. About 100 tennis players will participate in the event.

All proceeds from the tournament will be directed to funds established to support the gastrointestinal oncology program at Moffitt Cancer Center, ‘Harnessing the Immune System in the Fight Against Colorectal Cancer,’ with oversight provided by Dr. Sarah Hofe and Dr. Jennifer Permuth, as well as a new program called the June Rogers Compassionate Care Initiative.

The June Rogers Foundation for Colon Cancer Research (JRF) was started by seven of June Rogers’ closest friends in her honor. The JRF is partnering with Moftt Cancer Center to provide funds for colon cancer research.

“June was larger than life,” said JRF President Elisa Bufngton. “When you were with her, you felt like you could move mountains. She had a way of making everything seem possible, even the impossible. She inspired me to find my possibilities. She taught me that no excuse is greater than my ability. She was living proof of that. She battled an enemy and never once did she make excuses. She’s the reason we keep fighting. She has given us every possibility.”

The event has grown exponentially over the last three years. Foundation members are expecting over 1,000 attendees this year. In 2022, the JRF raised over $38,000, and in 2023 it raised over $55,000. The goal is to raise over $100,000 this year.

By Nick Nahas

This year, the festivities include a free outdoor concert, June’s Jam, starting at 6 p.m., and a Fight Like June Golf Tournament on Friday, April 19. Between 80-100 golfers are expected at the River Hills Country Club. There will be a live DJ starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday. The pro exhibition tennis match will take place on Sunday at 11 a.m. The headlining band, the Remissions, is led by Moftt CEO Dr. Patrick Hwu.

Prominent silent auction items include a chef’s table for eight at Bonefish Grill, including all you can eat and drink of your choice, along with white-tablecloth service; a one-night stay at the Tarpon Lodge and a tarpon fishing day trip for four with famous local captain Willie Mills; a Total Wine private wine-tasting class for 20 and a bottle of vintage wine; and U.S. Open items, to name a few.

“I’m most looking forward to the growth of our event,” said Bufngton. “It’s a much larger event than our first two years, but, inspired by June, we are taking the leap. No excuses. I can’t wait for June’s inspirational story to be told to those who have not heard it. Her story will bring out the warriors that will help us fight this battle. Bring out their possibilities. With the support of community, we can provide those currently battling colon cancer with compassionate care and resources. We hope to encourage more and more people to be proactive and get screened so we can win this fight against cancer head on.”

Visit https://sites.google.com/view/jrfccr/2024-fight-like-june.

Rhonda McDaniel started A Caring Touch Skin Terapy 20 years ago.

BLOOMINGDALE LADY BULLS BASKETBALL

TEAM REACHES FIRST STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME IN PROGRAM HISTORY

The Bloomingdale High School Lady Bulls basketball program had a dominant season, reaching their first state championship game in the program’s history. They ran into an elite St. Thomas Aquinas team and weren’t able to pull it out in the end, finishing 30-1 overall.

Bloomingdale won its third district championship in a row, won its first Western Conference championship in program history and was a perfect 30-0 going into the state championship. The team also won their second regional championship in three years.

“It’s amazing to be able to know we made a mark, and for all our hard work to finally show, as we deserve, but I know it’s not over. Baby steps,” said senior Tabitha Vega.

The team would not have been able to accomplish its goals without star Noelle Mengel. The junior three-year starter set major scoring records this season. She had the most points by a Lady Bull in one game with 36 and set a single-season scoring record with over 600 points. She also reached 1,000 career points this season and will most likely break the school record for most career points before her career is over.

“It’s something I’m really grateful to be a part of, and something I’ll be able to remember and look back on,” said Mengel. “It was great to be able to practice every day and be surrounded by a lot of great people and coaches.”

Izellah Kendrick and Mengel made First Team All-Western Conference and Jatia Markes made the second team. Kendrick and Mengel also made the Florida Athletic

By Nick Nahas

Coaches Association All-State Team for the 6A division.

The Lady Bulls were led by 13-year head coach Joel Bower. Not only did the team win a record 30 games in a row, but the head coach also recorded his 200th career win this season. He is proud of his team and how they battled back. They trailed in six games in the second half and were able to pull out victories. They avenged last year’s regional final loss to Charlotte, beating them 49-47 in the regional quarterfinal.

“I just thought that as the season went on and we remained undefeated, I felt like every team that we played was playing their hardest and really gearing up for us,” said Bower. “The way we hung in there and took everybody’s best shot showed this team’s resilience.”

Bower thought the team was successful not only because of the talent, but also the experience some of the players brought, along with leadership and work ethic. Bloomingdale has played deep into the playofs the last three years and has recorded an overall record of 8210. Next year’s seniors, Mengel and Kendrick, will most likely become the winningest players in the program’s history.

The team will return four of five starters next year. The Lady Bulls feel they have unfinished business and want to compete for the chance at a state championship again next season.

“The atmosphere of so many people caring for me, such as coaches, parents, trainers, teachers, students, friends and especially my family, was amazing,” said senior Vega. “Everyone was always there for us no matter what. I will also miss the 82-10 record we had in the three years I was here. It’s always a

HISTORIC PLANT CITY MAIN STREET TO HOST SAMPLE THE CITY TASTING EVENT THIS APRIL

Historic Plant City Main Street will present its inaugural Sample the City on Saturday, April 13, from 4-8 p.m. The event will take place in beautiful McCall Park, located at 100 N. Collins St. in historic downtown Plant City.

Sample the City is an opportunity for everyone to taste samples (2-ounce portions) prepared by local Plant City establishments. Guests will have the opportunity to purchase tickets in advance for only $75 per person. This ticket includes exclusive tastings from participating restaurants alongside a variety of beverage options, such as beer, wine, sodas and water. Upon arrival at McCall Park, guests will check in to receive a wristband and then embark on their culinary adventure. Restaurants will be set up in one central location, allowing attendees to sample a variety of dishes at their leisure.

Come out to Plant City for Sample the City and embark on a culinary journey like no other. Discover the hidden gems and culinary treasures of this charming city while mingling with fellow food enthusiasts. Whether you are a local looking to support your community or a visitor eager to taste the favors of Plant City, this event promises an unforgettable experience for all.

By Kathy L. Collins

was born out of our deep love for Plant City’s growing culinary scene and our desire to celebrate and showcase the incredible flavors this city has to ofer. We wanted to create a platform where both locals and visitors could come together to indulge in the delicious creations of our talented local restaurants.”

Marie added, “The intent behind Sample the City is to provide a unique opportunity for food lovers to immerse themselves in a culinary adventure, savoring the diverse flavors of Plant City all in one unforgettable event. We aim to support and promote our local restaurants while fostering a sense of community and culinary appreciation.”

The restaurants will be set up in one central location at McCall Park, providing attendees with easy access to sample dishes from multiple establishments in a single, picturesque setting. In addition, the park will be filled with music thanks to McCall Park’s speaker system.

Tina Marie with Historic Plant City Main Street explained, “Sample the City

Some of the fantastic establishments taking part in Sample the City include Angelina’s Deli, Crumbles & Cream and Greek Treat. These eateries are excited to showcase their signature dishes and delight guests with their culinary expertise. A full list of participants will be released closer to the event.

Marie said, “Sample the City is not just an event; it is an experience, a celebration of community, flavor and the culinary arts.”

For more information, please visit www. plantcitymainstreet.org and follow it on Facebook.

nice little add-on.”

Photo courtesy of Nicole Ferrante.

Te Bloomingdale High School Lady Bulls basketball program had a dominant season.

Photo courtesy of Nicole Ferrante. Noelle Mengel reached 1,000 career points this season and will most likely break the school record for most career points before her career is over.

Photo courtesy of Nicole Ferrante. Izellah Kendrick made First Team All-Western Conference and the Florida Athletic Coaches Association All-State Team for the 6A division.

TAMPA DYNAMO FC OFFERS SEVERAL RECREATIONAL AND COMPETITIVE SOCCER PROGRAMS

Tampa Dynamo FC is preparing for its spring recreational and competitive seasons to bring youth and adult soccer to Hillsborough County.

The spring season will host recreational programs in addition to the ongoing youth competitive season, which hosts registration in March and tryouts in May.

“Our competitive program is designed for those kids that have ambition within the game to develop and potentially take next steps, whether that be to play in high school college or for those kids that dream to play professionally one day,” said Graham Faught, club president.

Tampa Dynamo FC’s recreational programs rely on around 60 parent volunteers to coach the club-supported teams. These programs are open to any young athlete who wants to learn how to play and develop a love for soccer.

The club sees approximately 1,500 youth participants and around 250-300 adult athletes each season.

The youth recreational programs cost $150-$200, which includes uniforms, one practice per week and several games each season. The cost for the youth competitive seasons is between $775-$1,550, including insurance, 10 months of training and Grass-

By Lily Belcher

roots-licensed coaches. The $150 cost for adult recreational programs includes eight games during the season and insurance.

“We do our best to keep costs as low as we can for our families,” Faught said.

Smaller programs are hosted throughout the year at the new SouthShore Sportsplex on Waterset Boulevard.

“We were given the opportunity by Hillsborough County to expand our recreational programming and took the chance. Many of our members come from Apollo Beach/Waterset and this gives them the chance to play closer to home, which is always a positive,” Faught said.

The expansion to the Waterset area also gives Tampa Dynamo the extra field space it needs after seeing the recreational program grow to 700 kids this spring.

The club was founded in 2003 as the Valrico Youth Soccer Club but has grown to its new name, Tampa Dynamo FC, since 2015.

For more information on upcoming programs and registration information, visit Tampa Dynamo FC’s Instagram and Facebook pages. Registration is opening in March.

For more information, email clubadmin@tampadynamofc.com or call or text 813-677-1133.

EAST BAY RACEWAY IN FINAL LAP: CLOSING SET FOR OCTOBER

By Sharon Still

Tampa residents and

ing enthusiasts from around the country, as East Bay Raceway Park is set to close this fall. February marked the final Winternationals at the famed 1/3-mile dirt track, and when the racing season concludes in October the local icon will close its gates for good.

East Bay Raceway Park opened in 1977 and three generations of race fans have flocked to the warm weather to kick of the racing season. Current owner and president Al Varnadore, born and raised in Dover, has been at the helm for the last 22 years and has seen the industry change over time with costs skyrocketing, driving out the everyday people building cars in their backyards and focusing on precision and specialty-built vehicles.

As what Varnadore refers to as “the right time,” in 2019, the park entered into a purchase agreement with The Mosaic Company, a phosphate-mining company which owns all the neighboring properties. The agreement gave Mosaic the option to purchase the 28 acres in five years.

Five years have passed, and the planned sale will go through in 2024. Varnadore commented, “It is bittersweet. The cost of racing has gone up so much that the

market is killing itself.”

He plans to stay around the racing scene but added that he turns 65 in May and it’s time to slow down and spend time with his grandchildren.

As for East Bay Raceway Park, Varnadore said that Mosaic will use the property as an extension to its two phosphate stacks, explaining that he has been told 3 feet will be removed from the ground surface and leveled.

While the winter months attract the most fans to East Bay Raceway Park, there is still excitement ahead for those who want to experience the nostalgia before it ends.

“Any of our Late Model and Sprint Car events are great entertainment for the family,” he said.

Lucas Oil Dirt Late Models have been an attraction at the track since 2005. He added that it was standing-room-only at Winternationals and expects an even larger crowd at the track’s ‘Grand Finale,’ a $50,000-to-win Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series race that concludes the season on Saturday, October 12.

East Bay Raceway Park is located at 6311 Burts Rd. in Tampa, just of U.S. 41, and can be reached at 813-677-7223; Check out its event schedule and find more information at https://ebrp.co/.

Head out to East Bay Raceway Park and pick up some race merchandise to keep the memories of the track alive after it closes in October.

Tampa Dynamo FC hosts adult and youth recreational programs throughout the year.

Tampa Dynamo FC’s competitive programs ofer young athletes the chance to hone their competitive skills.

DRY CONDITIONS AND MAINTENANCE WARRANT CONSERVING WATER

Local skies have been full of clouds this winter, but the amount of rain produced so far is leaving the Tampa Bay area in drought conditions that have officials calling for continued conservation eforts from the community.

Water used by Hillsborough County residents is provided by Tampa Bay Water, the regional utility responsible for providing a safe and reliable flow of water in the region. Ofcials said there is still enough water to go around and cited recent rains and cooler temperatures as factors that are helping the situation, but conservation is still essential to ensuring things stay that way.

“We have plenty of water to meet the region’s needs, but it means we may go over our permitted groundwater pumping limits if rain is inconsistent, if we have a warm spring and early summer and if residents don’t follow watering restrictions,” said Warren Hogg, chief science ofcer at Tampa Bay Water. “We ask that everyone treat water like the precious and limited resource that it is.”

The ongoing dryer weather that has prevailed over the west coast of Florida recently means that the C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir in Lithia is filled to less than half of its storage capacity of 15.5

By Brad Stager

billion gallons of water. According to Tampa Bay Water, the reservoir contained 7.21 billion gallons of water as of January 20. The utility also announced a 12-month rainfall shortage of 9.3 inches in January and a reduction in the daily flow of the Hillsborough River of 9.1 million gallons.

The dry conditions and deficit in stored water come at a time when the Tampa Bay Seawater Desalination Plant in Apollo Beach is going ofine for maintenance until later this year. According to Tampa Bay Water, up to 10 percent of the region’s drinking water comes from desalination, which means the temporary absence of the plant’s production will make the supply of usable water more reliant on sources such as rivers and groundwater pumped via wells.

Current watering restrictions limit property owners and managers to irrigating on one scheduled day per week, as determined by the property’s address. Watering is also restricted to hours before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. Using reclaimed water for lawns and landscapes is exempt from the restrictions.

More information, including the watering day schedule, can be found at https://hcfl.gov/.

FOOD PANTRY ON WHEELS DELIVERS FRUITS AND VEGETABLES TO PROGRESS VILLAGE RESIDENTS

Driving west along Bloomingdale Avenue in Valrico and Riverview is a streetside smorgasbord of seemingly unlimited food choices that range from convenience stores and fast-food franchises to major supermarket chains and specialty food stores, as well as a variety of restaurants.

As West Bloomingdale meets U.S. 301 and becomes Progress Boulevard, the food options become fewer in number of locations and variety of foods, with convenience stores and fast-food restaurants predominating.

A balanced diet, including fruits and vegetables, is a healthy choice that is hard for some people to make due to cost and access. A mobile food pantry is helping Progress Village residents obtain fresh food for free.

In the neighborhood around the intersection at 78th Street, where Progress Boulevard becomes Madison Avenue, the challenge of having access to healthy food selections that include fresh ingredients is now being met by a visiting food market that arrives twice a month to distribute free fruits and vegetables to local residents, many of whom are senior citizens with limited mobility.

Called the Grow My Giving Mobile Fresh Market truck, the food pantry on wheels is scheduled to operate on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month through September from 4-5 p.m. at 4802 S. 79th St. in the heart of Progress Village.

By Brad Stager

It is a collaboration between Hillsborough County, Grow My Giving Inc. and Feeding Tampa Bay. Thomas Mantz is the Feeding Tampa Bay CEO, and he said providing food security to local residents is a goal worth coming together for.

“We believe that if you have access to the resources you need, everyone can thrive,” he stated.

Delivering food support to communities where residents face transportation issues as well as limited food-buying options is one way that Feeding Tampa Bay serves local residents. It is a distribution model that has become popular for similar organizations, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. You can learn more about Feeding Tampa Bay by visiting its website at https://feedingtampabay.org/, where a variety of information about nutrition and local support services is available. Grow My Giving Inc. is a charitable organization which provides services that support homeless and hungry residents in a variety of ways, such as by partnering with other organizations like Feeding Tampa Bay and Hillsborough County to identify areas of need. You can learn more about Grow My Giving at www.growmygiving.org.

Te C.W. Bill Young Regional Reservoir in Lithia stores drinking water for local residents.

GREATER BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LAUNCHES MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE WITH KICKOFF EVENT

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce (GBCC)

proudly announces the successful completion of its first Military Afairs Committee Kickof

Event. The February 21 event was tailored to cater to the needs of veteran-owned businesses, transitioning veterans, spouses and other professionals who extend support to this esteemed community.

As a vital part of its commitment to serving the military community, the GBCC aims to facilitate the growth and success of veteran-owned businesses as well as support transitioning veterans and their spouses in their pursuit of business ventures. This inaugural event marked the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at fostering stronger relationships, providing resources and promoting collaboration within the military community.

TECO served as the presenting sponsor, showcasing its commitment to supporting transitioning veterans through the TECO Veterans Alliance. Annual sponsors include Sellers & Associates LLC, a renowned technology and solutions provider catering to the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS), along with XP Crunch Media, an aerial and digital media production company.

Kat Mahoney, CEO and executive producer of XP Crunch Media and chair for the Military Afairs Committee, was the keynote speaker. With over 40 years of experience in military life as a daughter of a service member and spouse of a retired flight engineer, Mahoney brings a wealth of knowledge and

Staf Report

passion to the role. Her background includes founding a nonprofit for military families of deployed service members and special needs children, collaborating with Lockheed Martin on military children’s books and advocating for veteran and family mental health through government and political conferences. Mahoney’s accolades as a past National Military Spouse of the Year and Outstanding Military Spouse at various U.S. Air Force bases further highlight her dedication to the military community.

“With the Military Afairs Committee Kickof Event, we aimed to create an environment that fosters knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities for veterans and their spouses interested in entrepreneurship,” said Mahoney, “Our goal is to empower and equip this remarkable community with the necessary tools and support to thrive in the business world and build a business in Brandon.”

Joining Mahoney on the committee are Ted Martin and Chris ‘Ranger’ Gay, owners of the 2nd Amendment Armory; Tony Melchiorre, President of AimHigHR LLC; Toni Hedstrom, editor of FireWatch Magazine and founder of Veterans Alliance Network; David Thomas, co-owner of Home Care for the 21st Century; Stella Lopez-Jimenez, military veteran public health expert at Suncoast Community Health; and Connie Huber from Physician Partners of America.

Contact Amber Aaron from the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce at amber@ brandonchamber.com.

HILLSBOROUGH

COUNTY

AGING SERVICES HOST BLACK HERITAGE EVENT WITH SENIORS COMING TOGETHER

Dancing, performances, delicious food and senior center pride were all on display at the Hillsborough County Aging Services Black Heritage Celebration.

The annual Black Heritage Celebration brought together more than 400 members from the Hillsborough County senior centers, dining centers and community seniors who attended the celebration on February 29 at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

dressed up, danced and celebrated at the recent Black Heritage Event held by Hillsborough County Aging Services.

This was the first time Hillsborough County Aging Services held the event since 2020. It had been cancelled since then due to COVID-19 concerns.

“We have such a good time,” said Angelina Alexander, a member of the Progress Village Senior Center. “Aging Services does a wonderful job. We dress for the occasion. We laugh. We dance. The food is wonderful. It’s just a wonderful time to be back.”

This year’s theme was ‘It’s a Family Reunion.’

“It’s about coming together, reuniting with friends, meeting new people and having a really good time,” said Mary Jo McKay, Hillsborough County Aging Services

nutrition and wellness manager. “We will have to pull them of the dance floor.”

Attendees could sense the healthy competition in the air among the various groups as they performed wearing their brightly colored dining or senior center team T-shirts.

Performances included members from the Oaks Senior Center, Brandon Senior Center, Lutz Senior Center, Town ’N Country Senior Center, Progress Village Senior Center, Ruskin Senior Center and Wimauma Senior Center. Seniors performed skits, danced and had a great time sharing and getting together again to celebrate Black History Month.

From active adult programming and inhome services to hot meals and referral services, Hillsborough County Aging Services ofers residents ages 50 and over various services to enhance quality of life. The senior centers provide fitness walks, group exercises, health and wellness talks, dance classes, arts and crafts classes, computer classes, health screenings, bingo, dominoes and chess, to name a few of the programs.

Learn more by visiting https://hcfl.gov/ aging or calling 813-272-5250.

Staf Report

Seniors

Seniors from around the county were happy to be back at Te Black Heritage event, hosted for the frst time since 2020.

ECHO’S ELEANOR SAUNDERS NAMED 2023 RIVERVIEW CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

The 2023 Riverview Citizen of the Year is Eleanor Saunders, executive director of ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization), who said at the award’s announcement that it is an honor she shares proudly with her team.

“I’m so proud of my team, and it’s a stellar team,” Saunders said on February 2 at The Regent, where the then-named Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce held its annual banquet and awards ceremony, shortly before unveiling a new logo with the organization’s new name, the Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce. “I’m so thankful that we live in a community that now has two places like ECHO for people to come and get help.”

Saunders for roughly 18 years has been an employee of ECHO, hired as the second employee by Stacey Efaw, whose job Saunders filled roughly nine years later. The nonprofit today, at two locations, has 26 employees, up from 10 a decade ago, Saunders said. The nonprofit opened more than 30 years ago in Brandon, thanks in good part to the largesse of Julian L. Kraft Jr., who provided the space at 507 N. Parsons Ave.

ECHO last year moved its Riverview operation into larger quarters, from 7807 Capitano St. to 10509 Riverview Dr., home of the old Riverview library. The new and much larger Riverview Public Library is at 9951 Balm Riverview Rd.

At both locations — and with plans over

By Linda Chion

the next few years or so to open two more, including one in South Hillsborough County — the mission is to focus services on three areas of critical need.

“Right of the bat, you have the critical need for food and clothing,” Saunders said. “Then you have the need for one-on-one job training, but you can’t keep a job if you don’t address the third level of need, for shelter, reliable transportation and child care.”

Overall, the need is growing, as ECHO this fiscal year, which ends on Sunday, June 30, is on track to report having served an unprecedented 30,000 neighbors, up from 10,000 neighbors in fiscal year 2010, Saunders said.

“That’s the great thing about ECHO,” said Betty Jo Tompkins, who in 2022 was named Riverview Citizen of the Year. “Their programming is very individualized, and they take advantage of all the opportunities given to them in the community.”

“People need help,” Tompkins added. “They need help with food, they need help with housing, they need help with clothing, they need educational and job training skills. ECHO is ofering a comprehensive program to work towards helping the whole person.”

To learn more about ECHO, visit https:// echofl.org/. Call ECHO Riverview at 813540-9880. Call ECHO Brandon at 813-6850935. ECHO has two thrift stores in Brandon, one at 815 W. Bloomingdale Ave. and the other at 424 W. Brandon Blvd.

HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS

Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony

Apr 26-28 -

RAYMOND JAMES POPS

Disco Fever

May 3 & 5

HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS

Elgar’s Enigma Variations

May 17-19

HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS Mahler’s

MISSION BBQ COLLECTS $347,068 FOR WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA

MISSION BBQ is proud to announce the donation of $347,068 to national nonprofit Wreaths Across America (WAA). This contribution was made possible thanks to the generosity of MISSION BBQ customers and their support of MISSION BBQ’s special American Heroes Cups. The donation will sponsor veterans’ wreaths to remember our fallen U.S. service members laid to rest at 129 participating locations for placement on National Wreaths Across America Day.

MISSION BBQ

One hundred and twenty-nine locations will receive veterans’ wreaths because of the generous donations in the communities where MISSION BBQ customers support the mission with the purchase of American Heroes Cups.

co-founder Bill Kraus recently presented this donation to WAA’s executive director, Karen Worcester, in Columbia, Maryland.

“We remain proud and humbled to stand with Wreaths Across America and the amazing work they continue to do to Remember, Honor and Teach,” said Kraus.

WAA is best known for its annual wreath-laying ceremonies throughout the United States and beyond at 4,224 participating locations. However, the nonprofit’s yearlong mission to ‘Remember’ the fallen, ‘Honor’ those who serve and ‘Teach’ the next generation the value of freedom is carried out by millions of volunteers across the country through many community programs.

“This year’s Wreaths Across America’s theme is ‘Live with Purpose,’ and MISSION BBQ is a company that embodies

this through their community initiatives and core values,” said Worcester. “To be a program and mission worthy of their support and that of their customers is beyond humbling. We continue to be grateful for their support and that of their customers.”

“We wouldn’t have the freedoms we have today if it wasn’t for our nation’s veterans who stepped up for us time and time again,” said Steve Newton, co-founder of MISSION BBQ, and Kraus. “We are humbled by the hard work of our teammates, who ask all of our customers for their support, and all the good that will be done for our so deserving American heroes in remembering their lives, service and sacrifices.”

American Heroes Cups are available year-round, retailing at $4.99, with $2 of every cup purchase donated to a charity supporting national military charities and local first responders. Customers are encouraged to return their American Heroes Cup during future visits to the restaurant and receive 99-cent refills. To find a MISSION BBQ location near you, visit https:// mission-bbq.com/locations.

This year, Wreaths Across America Day will be held on Saturday, December 14. To find a location near you to support, please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Support your Florida Orchestra today FloridaOrchestra.org/donate

2023 Riverview Citizen of the Year, ECHO executive director Eleanor Saunders, with Betty Jo Tompkins, the award’s 2022 recipient.

GRACE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL CELEBRATES WITH 50-YEAR GALA

In a remarkable testament to 50 years of dedication to Christian education, Grace Christian School (GCS) is set to host an unforgettable gala on Saturday, April 27, at 6:30 p.m. The event promises to be a grand celebration of Grace Christian School’s enduring commitment, encapsulating the school’s resilience and commitment to its core values.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

“The gala is all about celebrating 50 years of this school,” said McKeen. “There will be special speakers, amazing memories through the years on a video, music and an auction.”

EAST HILLSBOROUGH ART GUILD PRESENTS ANOTHER OUTSTANDING ART SHOW AT 2024 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

The 2024 Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Arts Show, presented by the East Hillsborough Art Guild (EHAG), showcases the artwork of diverse and talented artists young and old from all over the Tampa Bay area. The show is open to the public during the annual Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City.

The legacy of GCS runs deep, according to Rebecca McKeen, who is the daughter of the founders, Robert Gustafson and Dana Gustafson, and is also a graduate of the school and a current administrator.

“Grace Christian School now has its fourth generation working here,” said McKeen. “My grandfathers on both sides had a part in starting this ministry. My father and mother were the founders, my husband and I (who met in high school at Grace Christian) have both worked here since the late 80s. Now our two children and their spouses all work here.”

Since opening its doors in 1974, the school has continued to grow in academics, fine arts and athletic programs. The 28-acre property o f Valrico Road hosts more than 650 students from K4-12th grade as well as 55 faculty members. With continued growth over the last 50 years, the school is celebrating this milestone with an unforgettable gala.

More than 300 people are expected to attend the gala, which is also a fundraiser for the new Robert R. Gustafson Center that will be home to a new gymnasium, 12 classrooms and two lecture auditoriums. “This building was ready to start, then COVID hit, and it more than doubled the price of the building,” said McKeen. “All permitting has been done, so we are just awaiting some miracles to help us start this in April of this year.”

GCS not only helps students excel in the classroom, onstage and on the field, but the students and their families also thrive in the community. “We are so thankful to be able to share the word of God each day with our students,” said McKeen. “We have amazing GCS families that support and love this ministry, and it has helped this ministry grow every year. We ultimately thank the Lord for keeping our doors open all these years. We pray it stays open for many more years.”

For more information about attending the gala, gala table sponsorships or donating to the new building, visit www. gracechristianschool.com or call 813689-8815. Grace Christian School is located at 1425 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico.

The judges for the 2024 show are Sherry Ross and John Aho, both of whom are artists and art educators. Ross is the President of the Lakeland Arts Association. They are both adjudicators for the AP Arts and Design, Drawing and 3D Art for high school.

Alan Metzger’s oil piece was awarded Adult Best of Show at this year’s Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Arts Show.

Ross and Aho stated that this year’s show was very impressive. For determining the Adult Best of Show winner, Ross said, “We went through all of the entries and judged them. If they fell within number one for their category, they went into the Best of Show pool.” Ross added, “There were four really strong contenders.”

Te Best of Show for the Youth Division was Reese Veerkamp.

Ross and Aho looked carefully at each piece from a technical and artistic standpoint. When they did this, it brought the contenders down to two.

Adult Best of Show was ultimately awarded to Alan Metzger of Wesley

By Kathy L. Collins

Chapel for his oil painting of a cow, about which Aho said, “The painting shows the personality of the subject. He has a quirky turn of the head.”

The winner of Youth Best of Show was Reese Veerkamp of St. Petersburg. Ross and Aho said of the students’ works, “There is real diversity in the show. We appreciated all of the di f erent media. We had a hard time judging the entries.”

The Strawberry Theme Award went to Beth Smedley of Valrico for her mixed media piece. Ross said, “The artist’s competence is shown in the use of putting the different media together. I was super impressed. The color choice worked out well.”

In addition to the pieces judged by Ross and Aho, there were 12 Business Leader Choice Awards, including Shirin Moghadasi’s acrylic piece selected by the Osprey Observer. There were also two ‘In Honor of’ Awards.

Overall, the 2024 Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Arts Show was a great success.

For more information on the show and to get information on EHAG, please visit www.ehagfinearts.org.

Beth Smedley’s mixed media piece was the recipient of the Strawberry Teme Award.

Grace Christian School is hosting a gala to celebrate 50 years of Christian education and raise money for an additional building on campus.

14TH CRAWFISH FESTIVAL IS BACK WITH GOOD MUSIC, FOOD & FUN FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Fourteen years ago, two friends were looking for a way to raise money for the Rotary Club and give back to local charities and high schools. From this passion, the Crawfish Festival was started to bring the community together with good food, shopping and entertainment.

This year, the 14th annual Crawfish Festival is on Saturday, April 13, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Founders Square Park in Winthrop Town Centre. The free event will feature live music, food vendors, kids’ activities and shopping for everyone to enjoy. Guests can purchase meals during the event or avoid the lines and purchase online ahead of time.

If you are bringing the whole crew, purchase the Family Pack for $70, which includes two Cajun-style crawfish dinners with corn and potatoes, your choice of two hot dogs or hamburgers, two beers and two nonalcoholic beverages. You can also purchase individual Cajun-style crawfish dinners with corn and potatoes for just $25. There will be a la carte items for purchase with Crawfish Cash, including pulled pork sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, smoked fish spread, red beans and rice, gumbo, drinks and more. Advance purchase of tickets and Crawfish Cash is highly recommended.

Michael Broussard, co-founder of the fes-

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

tival, was born and raised in south Louisiana and grew up eating Cajun-style food. Being able to combine his passion for Cajun food and his passion for helping the community is what makes this festival so special to him.

“Getting crawfish around here can be challenging, so the crawfish fanatics have made the event what it is today,” said Broussard, “and the support of the community has been incredible.”

All Crawfish Festival proceeds support charitable causes. Beneficiaries include community organizations working to alleviate poverty, illiteracy, hunger and disease. Funds also provide area youth scholarships and leadership development. Last year, the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity, awarded $35,000, with roughly 90 percent allocated locally. For more information and a complete list of recipients, visit www.fishhawkriverviewrotary.org.

The Rotary Club is excited to bring the 14th annual Crawfish Festival presented by ‘Laissez le Bon Temps Rouler’ title sponsor Chris Ligori & Associates back for the community to enjoy good music, good food and good company. To learn more about the Crawfish Festival, prepurchase meals or sign up as a sponsor or vendor, please visit www. luvcrawfish.com.

NEW POST SECONDARY CENTER PROGRAM CELEBRATED AT BRANDON HIGH

A new facility for the Student Center of Postsecondary Exploration (SCOPE) has been announced, with Brandon High School now the second location for the SCOPE initiative.

Initially launched in the fall of 2022 at King High School in Tampa, SCOPE reportedly has gained a good track record for providing students with crucial one-on-one college and career planning. Students through SCOPE can get help with admission and financial aid applications and with alternative postsecondary pathways, such as technical colleges and trade schools.

The occasion of a second SCOPE location was marked with a ribbon-cutting at Brandon High on March 6, where Principal Jeremy Klein said educators were “excited to have this opportunity for our kiddos.”

He noted that this year’s senior class, the first graduating class since he became principal four years ago, were freshmen during the start of the coronavirus pandemic. “So, for them to come out of it and see where they are now, and already taking advantage of [SCOPE] two weeks in, it’s a nice culmination” to their Brandon High journey, Klein said.

Looking ahead, and working in concert with district and community partners, plans are to expand the SCOPE presence to other Hillsborough County high schools, according to Anna Corman, interim CEO of the Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF).

“By recognizing and removing barriers in college and career navigation, we want

By Linda Chion

to ensure that every student in the county has the opportunity for postsecondary success,” Corman said in prepared remarks. “The expansion of SCOPE addresses a critical community need by ofering teens personalized counseling and support, helping to drive upward mobility for all students and keeping Tampa Bay’s workforce skilled and competitive.”

According to program ofcials, nearly half of King High School’s students had exposure to, or interacted with, SCOPE during the 2022-23 school year.

Educators and sponsors at the ribbon-cutting included representatives from Suncoast Credit Union and HCA Florida Healthcare; Marcos Murillo, the school district’s chief of innovation and strategic planning; deputy superintendent Shaylia McRae; and Dr. Christine Van Cott, chief medical ofcer at HCA Florida Brandon.

In his prepared remarks, Superintendent Van Ayres thanked the Hillsborough Education Foundation for its partnership support. According to an HEF report, the aim is to bring SCOPE to five additional public high schools by 2026.

Ayres noted the support students through SCOPE will have for applying for scholarships and student aid, filling out university applications and obtaining study materials for required tests, as well as for exploring career and workforce options. In a nod to Brandon High, he added that SCOPE resources will help prepare students “for the next chapter of their lives once they graduate from the Nest.”

Brandon High Principal Jeremy Klein, with Dr. Christine Van Cott (center), chief medical ofcer at HCA Florida Brandon, and Anna Corman, interim CEO of HEF.

While working on a new devotional, I struggled to think of an everyday miracle I hadn’t yet used in a reading, a story of God’s faithfulness that fit the (small) word count and made my point. It just wasn’t happening.

Then I felt it. That Holy Spirit elbow jab to my ribcage that means the Almighty is trying to tell me something. But you know, I’m sort of dense. Sometimes it takes more than one jarring jab.

With the first nudge, I felt a ridiculous urge to go into my bedroom. I ignored it. How could that help?

A half-hour later, I stood staring at my bedside table. There was that holy jab again. What in the world?

I opened the drawer. Jab. It was full of junk, books and old papers I hadn’t seen for ages. Was I supposed to clean out a dresser during this crucial writing time? Papa God sure has a weird sense of humor.

I couldn’t figure it out. But I couldn’t walk away either. One tiny pink booklet caught my eye. Cute. I had no memory of it whatsoever.

I opened the cover and gasped. My own handwriting boldly proclaimed across the top of the first page, “God’s Miracles in My Life.” And then at the bottom of that same page, “So I’ll NEVER doubt!” Contained inside were pages of grace notes beginning in April 1990.

Good heavens. Over 30 years of miracles right there at my fingertips. Talk about a direct answer to prayer.

Then as I thumbed through story after story of God working in my life, I shed a few tears. Not just because I had hot proof that He’s been there all along, orchestrating miracles, but also because that little book in my hands was afrmation that He’s genuinely interested in every detail of our lives.

That He heard my pleas, saw my conundrum and responded. That He overtly worked behind the scenes just to prove, well, that He’s always working behind the scenes.

“The Lord will always lead you. He will meet the needs of your soul in the dry times and give strength to your body,” (Isaiah 58:11).

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.

WISDOM, HUMILITY, KINDNESS AND GOODNESS

One of my favorite scenarios involves Rebekah and I together, camped out at the kitchen table one at each end, sipping fresh ground cofee, both working on a writing project — creative juices flowing.

Outside it is raining. Has been all day. But rainy weather is good writing weather, good for ruminating; I like that word.

‘Ruminate’ (a verb, pronounced / ru m ne t/): to think carefully and deeply about something.

“Thinking carefully and deeply.” Oh, yes! America could use a little more ruminating right about now. Ruminating and then its natural companions: self-appraisal, self-questioning and a humble heart. Oh, we love to question other people, especially folk we don’t like or disagree with. But how about turning our questions inward? How about keeping the following questions front and center?

• We are all likely wrong at least half the time, so what can we learn from people we disagree with?

• What should we maybe think through more on our own, rather than blithely swallowing whole and without question?

• Isn’t it time to invest more thought outside our ‘only people who think just like us’ silo? It’s not very healthy in there.

Anyway, back at my end of the table I am finishing up a blog post about ‘wis-

dom’ before writing an article about ‘humility’ for our church webpage. It occurs to me that the two words are related.

At Rebekah’s end of the table, she is putting together Sunday’s sermon. This week, the key words are ‘kindness’ and ‘goodness.’

Turns out we are very much on the same page. Here is what I am thinking. I’m thinking the New Testament book of James nailed it: “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.”

The scriptures suggest — no, teach — that we should all work at replacing our dark, angry, negative, hostile ways with more kindness and goodness — along with some humility too.

Won’t you join me in practicing some extra wisdom, humility, kindness and goodness this coming week? — DEREK

Derek Maul has written for many news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune, Te United Methodist News Service, All Pro Dad, FOCUS Magazine, Newsweek, USA Today, Te 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.

BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT

To this day and, I believe, for the remainder of my gardening days, I will remain a lazy yet organized gardener. You, too, can have a beautiful garden while maintaining a lazy gardener lifestyle. Planning and time management are key components to success.

Right plant/right place, the first of the nine Florida Friendly Landscaping™ principles, includes knowledge of your site conditions. Other components are hydrozoning, consideration of plant size and keeping it simple.

Right Plant/Right Place: Analyze sun, shade, water requirements and soil composition.

Lazy Watering: Hydrozone — group plants by water needs and harvest rainwater from roof structures for ornamental plants, not edibles. We ofer three types of microirrigation classes: traditional for landscape beds, patio/container and vegetable garden kits.

Size: Determine the garden dimensions, mature plant size and least number of plants needed to fill space. Lazy and smart gardeners do not plant for instant gratification but for mature plant size, saving time, work and money.

Keep It Simple: If you do not water during dry spells, plant drought-resistant bloomers or wait until the rainy season to plant. If you do not rake leaves or pine needles when they fall, create self-mulching landscape beds. If you do not plant annual flowers, plant perennials.

Sweat Savers: Repeat your successes, and if you experience failures, determine why and change your practice. Plant reseeders. Remove dead flowers from a plant

to encourage further blooming and save seeds. Use a timer system to perform 15 minutes of a dreaded gardening activity, then stop when the timer goes of. You’ll be surprised at what you can accomplish.

Time Saver: Wear gloves. This saves time cleaning your hands and fingernails. Two friends have gifted me with garden gloves that go to my elbows. This helps decrease my use of Band-Aids.

Maximize Your Laziness: Use your friends wisely. Start a friends’ gardening group. Learn to love volunteer plants (those that come up on their own) and permanently borrow plants from your friends and neighbors. Asking first is always a wise move. Divide and relocate perennials: no money spent, save on gasoline and no need to shop. Do any gardeners dislike shopping for new, diferent or more plants?

Lazy Maintenance Plants: Slow growers need less pruning. Wide spreaders mean fewer plants required. Drought tolerance requires less watering. Pest and disease-resistant plants need less lazy pest management.

Low demands and high returns include plumbago, beach sunflower, blue flag and walking iris, muhly grass, wiregrass, saltgrass, firebush and salvia. These are just a few. For more ideas, go to UF FFL and view a copy of “The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design.” In the newest version, the key to information provided is on page 41.

Lynn Barber is the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ agent for UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County. Contact her at labarber@ ufl.edu.

From overheating in the scorching sun to dehydration, the spring and summer months can be harmful to your pets if you aren’t aware and don’t prepare for the soaring temperatures.

Here are a few do’s and don’ts from Hillsborough County’s Animal Control Division of Code Enforcement to help keep you and your fuzzy companions safe throughout the summer.

Do’s:

• Always keep water on hand wherever your pet is to avoid dehydration. Consider ice cubes or pet-friendly frozen treats. Watermelon and cucumber are also tasty summer treats for hydration.

• Walk your pets in the early morning or late evening to avoid the full force of the sun and midday heat.

• Water play with sprinklers, hoses and kiddie pools are fun ways to cool of if your pet enjoys the water.

• Know the symptoms of heat stroke: excessive panting and drooling, weakness, disorientation and/or seizure.

• Groom your dogs and cats to keep their coats light to allow for air circulation that will help regulate their body temperature. However, shaving a double-coated dog, such as golden retrievers or border collies, can be harmful.

• Use pet-safe sunscreen on hairless and short-haired pets and pets with white coats. This protects their skin from sunburn.

• Monitor your pets around pools and large bodies of water so they don’t fall in and possibly drown. If you take your pets on a boat, have a pet life vest for each pet to

wear.

• Have a plan for your pets in case of disaster, like a hurricane.

Don’ts:

• Never leave your pet in a car unattended. Dogs and cats don’t sweat like humans, so they easily overheat and can die if left in the car at any time but especially in the hot summer months.

• Don’t walk your pet on hot pavement, as it can burn their paws; early morning and evening is best.

• Don’t shave a double-coated dog. Shaving them does not help keep them cool; it does the opposite. If your dog has a double coat or if you’re not sure what type of coat your dog has, consult your veterinarian.

• Don’t forget your flea, tick and heartworm prevention medication. Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes thrive in hot temperatures, and dogs and cats can get sick from their bites.

• Never let your pets drink any liquids from the ground. Leaked substances from cars and other sources, like antifreeze, can be extremely toxic.

If you think your pet is sufering from heatstroke:

• Cool them by submerging them in water or spraying them with a hose. It is very important to cool the animal’s head, but be sure to keep water out of their airways. Put the animal in an air-conditioned vehicle, building or, at minimum, in the shade.

• Call your veterinarian immediately.

• To report an animal in danger or heat distress, call Code Enforcement’s Animal Control Division at 813-744-5660.

Endorsed by Jack Hanna!

Spring has sprung and in Florida, which means an ofcial start to ‘kitten season.’ Kitten season refers to a time when the cycle of community (feral, free-roaming, wild) cats’ reproductive activity is at its highest. With our year-round warm climate, kitten season is a 12-month cycle; however, it is most defined between March through October.

During this period, we will see local rescuers and shelters bursting at the seams with adoptable kittens and pleas for help with fostering and volunteering. Rescuing, fostering and adopting are vital, but how do we combat this issue systemically? The safe, humane and efective response to the growing community cat population is through the trap, neuter and return (TNR) method. TNR programs have been endorsed and practiced by animal welfare groups across the globe as a humane way to reduce feral cat populations. The TNR process involves humanely trapping each cat, bringing them to a vet clinic where they will be fixed and vaccinated and then returning them after recovery to their original, outdoor homes. Florida is lucky to have afordable and widely distributed veterinary resources across the state. These programs allow for more individuals and organizations to participate in this highly efective and ethical solution to the large community cat population.

The universal symbol that a community cat has been TNRed is an ear tip. Ear-tipping

is a notch that is surgically removed on the top of the cat’s left ear while they are being fixed and is usually painless. In Florida, TNR programs are practiced and supported by most of our county shelters as well as by individual citizens and nonprofit organizations. Anyone can TNR a community cat and be an efective part of the solution. Ear-tipped cats can be found all over the world and are a symbol for a managed community cat colony. Managed colonies allow balance of the community cat population through stabilization, as the colony size will naturally decrease while new litters are eliminated through colony sterilization. This also reduces much of the nuisance behavior that can be associated with large groups of unsterilized felines. In addition, TNR allows these cats to live longer, healthier lives in the only homes they have ever known: outdoors. Ultimately, TNR has the most impact by reducing the number of unwanted cats and kittens that end up in our shelters while also reducing shelter euthanasia. The simple fact is that feral cats are a part of our community, and through efective TNRing we can live harmoniously and responsibly together without sacrificing their lives. TNR works!

Ali Holton is currently director of FishHawk TNR Inc. She has a master’s in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation. To reach her, email fshhawktnr4@gmail.com.

The Par for the Chorus Barbershop Quartet is everything you might expect from a barbershop music group and more. In fact, while their name is a play on par for the course due to them being based in Sun City Center, where golf is a popular pastime, they are par to none.

Par for the Chorus is a nonaudition chorus comprised of men and women who sing a cappella arrangements of traditional barbershop songs as well as more contemporary songs. Performances and rehearsals include singing together as a chorus and singing as quartets.

The group was founded in 1999 by Don Looper, Jack Frobose and Lee Frayer and currently has 20 members of all ages, with Charles Bunton being the oldest at age 94. While the group is based in Sun City Center, there are members that come from Sarasota, Bradenton and Valrico.

President David Lemley welcomes anyone interested in joining the group.

“We are always looking for new members. We have many learning aids to help them get up and running even if they have never sang in a chorus before. We like to sing well,

By Jane Owen

but we don’t take it too serious and we have a great bunch of fun and interesting people,” Lemley said.

Lemley has been singing for three years. The longest member in the group has been singing barbershop for 50 years.

Valrico resident Dan Tracy began singing last year.

“As a new member, I really like the camaraderie in the group. Everybody tries to help each other and uplift each other. I’m learning a lot about myself by attempting to learn how to sing, and it’s a great feeling when you do get it right and the chord tones ring out. I’m 59 years old and just starting, so if I can do it, anyone can,” Tracy said.

The first annual Ice Cream Social, benefiting Sun City Center Security Patrol and Par for the Chorus, is on Friday, April 5, from 2-4 p.m. at the Atrium Building, located at 945D N. Course Lane in Sun City Center.

In addition to always welcoming new members, Par for the Chorus is looking for new opportunities to sing and perform. To contact them, email parforthechorusscc@ gmail.com. For more information, visit their Facebook page @SCCbarbershopchorus.

From left to right: Carol Matz (tenor), Dan Matz (lead), Dan Tracy (bass) and Tom Purinton (baritone) performing during the intermission of the SouthShore Concert Band’s Christmas concert.

Chorus Barbershop Quartet per-

April holds a special significance as the Month of the Military Child, a tradition estab lished in 1986 by former De fense Secretary Casper Wein berger to honor the sacrifices and resilience of children in military families nationwide.

Did you know that approximately 80 percent of mili tary-connected children attend public schools? Within Hillsborough County Public Schools, we proudly embrace over 4,000 military-connected families, valuing the diverse perspectives and ex periences they bring to our educational community while acknowledging their unwavering strength and resilience.

Military-connected children often face the challenges of frequent relocations, parental deployments and the inherent uncertainties of military life. Most will change schools at the K-12 level three times more often than nonmilitary students, interrupting educational and social stability. Despite these obstacles, they exhibit remarkable courage and adaptability.

By Superintendent Van Ayres

Schools of Distinction are intentional in creating a supportive environment that recognizes the needs of military children and helps them thrive academically, socially and emotionally. We are proud that 21 of our schools have earned this prestigious distinction.

• Anderson Elementary

• Ballast Point Elementary

• Bevis Elementary

• Chiaramonte Elementary

• Collins PreK-8

• Doby Elementary

• East Bay High

• FishHawk Creek Elementary

• Franklin Middle Magnet

• Lanier Elementary

• Madison Middle

• Nelson Elementary

• Progress Village Middle Magnet

• Roland Park K-8 Magnet

• Shore Elementary Magnet

• Stowers Elementary

• Tinker K-8

• Warren Hope Dawson Elementary

We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to our military families, especially our youngest heroes — your children, our students. We are dedicated to serving you as you serve us.

One significant way schools can show their support for military-connected students is by becoming a Purple Star School of Distinction. Purple Star

Join me in supporting our military families by wearing purple for the Purple Up! For Military Kids campaign on Wednesday, April 17. It is a small gesture of support for the families that make such large sacrifices for us all.

HILLSBOROUGH SUPERINTENDENT PROPOSES

MILLAGE REFERENDUM WITH STUDENTS FACING SHORTAGES OF TEACHERS AND SUPPORT STAFF

With thousands of students arriving late to school due to a bus driver shortage and thousands more in classrooms with no permanent teacher due to a teacher shortage, Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Van Ayres recently proposed a draft plan to school board members that would allow Hillsborough to address the shortages by delivering competitive pay to retain and recruit high-quality teachers and staf Voters in five counties surrounding Hillsborough have approved a millage referendum, giving those counties tens of millions of additional dollars each year to deliver competitive pay to teachers, bus drivers, counselors, security ofcers, principals and other district employees. After extensive research, Ayres put forth a detailed plan showing how a voter-approved millage would address these critical shortages and positively impact Hillsborough County’s more than 230,000 students.

Staf Report

$375,000, and appropriate homestead exemptions, the cost to an average homeowner would be $350 per year, which averages to about $1 a day.

In return, by gathering these funds, a millage would raise an estimated $177 million to support Hillsborough’s students each year. A projected $150.4 million would go to district-operated schools, and based on enrollment, $26.6 million would go to charter schools.

Note that under Florida law, the half-penny sales tax approved by Hillsborough County voters in 2018 can only be spent on buildings and maintenance, not on competitive pay for teachers or other academic programs. The half-penny sales tax continues to be invested in school facilities, with 120 air conditioners overhauled or replaced and more than 3 million square feet of aging roofs replaced so far.

Impact Plan

“What keeps me up at night is that many of our students are not able to get to school on time because of a shortage of bus drivers and many students do not have high-quality teachers in their classroom due to a number of teaching vacancies. The millage will strengthen our foundation and allow us to compete for the best teachers, support staf and administrators to ensure successful educational outcomes for students,” said Ayres, who gave an in-depth walkthrough of the proposal at a school board workshop on Tuesday.

The draft proposal covers:

• A detailed impact plan — which will be finalized with input from the school board and public — showing exactly how money generated by a millage would be spent.

• Steps for transparency and accountability, including an independent oversight committee to review every dollar spent and agreements in advance with unions representing district employees.

• Confirmation that voters would need to renew a millage every four years, ensuring the public would exercise strong control over the funding.

A millage would generate money for schools that stay in Hillsborough County. With the county’s average home value of

Objective: Competitive Pay (92 percent)

To support students by retaining and recruiting excellent teachers, support staf and administrators who serve as the foundation of our schools, more than $9 out of every $10 generated by the millage would be dedicated to competitive pay.

School district staf proposes salary supplements of:

• $6,000 each year for teachers.

• $3,000 each year for support staf

• $6,000 each year for administrators.

These projected estimated supplements would increase the income of:

• The average teacher by 11 percent.

• The average support staf member by 11 percent.

• The average administrator by 4 percent.

There are more detailed objectives to the proposal that are available online.

Next Steps

Hillsborough school board members are scheduled to vote on Tuesday, April 2, on whether to place a millage referendum on the Tuesday, November 5, general election ballot for all voters in Hillsborough County. To pass, the millage must receive 50 percent plus one of the votes.

USF RANKS AMONG THE TOP 15 PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN NEW PATENTS

For the 11th consecutive year, the University of South Florida (USF) is one of the top 15 American public research universities for producing new U.S. utility patents, according to a new ranking released today by the National Academy of Inventors.

Based on the 88 new patents secured in 2023, USF is 14th among U.S. public research universities, 24th among all American public or private universities and 34th among universities worldwide.

“The University of South Florida’s consistent recognition as one of the nation’s top producers of new U.S. utility patents is a reflection of the innovative spirit and culture that transcends across our institution,” USF President Rhea Law said. “We are proud to support our researchers who continue to turn their bold ideas into inventions, new technologies and creative solutions that make a lasting impact on our communities and throughout our society.”

The ranking places USF in rare company among the academic institutions generating new, novel and useful inventions, including innovation powerhouses such as the University of California System, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University and Stanford University. Combined, the three universities that comprise The Florida High Tech Corridor — USF, the University of Florida and the University of Central Florida — secured

•

287 patents. This puts The Corridor ahead of nationally recognized centers of innovation, including North Carolina’s Research Triangle and the University of Texas System.

Below are some of USF’s 2023 patent highlights:

• Qing Lu, associate professor in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, has developed a new asphalt and patented a novel paving system to harvest energy from heavily trafcked roadways.

• College of Behavioral and Community Sciences faculty members William Diehl Kearns, Kimberly Crosland and James L. Fozard, along with Jefrey Craighead, lead scientist at SoarTech, patented a new medication box that improves patients’ medication adherence. A scannable marker, such as a QR code, is embedded in the bottom of each pill chamber in the transparent box. Each marker is embedded with important data relevant to the medication plan. When the user ingests the medication, the marker is scanned and the data is stored electronically, creating a long-term record of the patient’s medication regime. The system also can be programmed to provide rewards to the user for following their medication plan, thus reinforcing consistent medication adherence.

The University of South Florida is located at 4202 E. Fowler Ave. in Tampa. For more information, visit www.usf.edu.

A new medication box with a scannable marker embedded in each pill chamber to collect data and track adherence was one of the innovative new patents secured by USF faculty.

ARMWOOD UNVEILS INNOVATIVE STEAM LAB WITH RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY AND OPEN HOUSE

Armwood High School was proud to celebrate the official unveiling of its STEAM Lab space with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on February 21.

The ceremony featured notable speakers, including Principal Dina Langston, representatives from the Building Excellence Foundation, Amazon representatives and esteemed school board members. Among the guests was Ted Newfield, computer science teacher at Armwood and the STEAM Lab project lead, whose vision and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.

Staf Report

Newfield to celebrate opening the space to students,” said Sam Blatt, economic development manager at Amazon. “We want students to know how exploring and building foundational STEAM skills can help them achieve their professional goals, whatever those might be.”

Funds for the new STEAM Lab were provided through an Amazon award granted to Newfield in 2023. Newfield was one of just 10 selected among thousands of eligible teachers as an Amazon Future Engineer Teacher of the Year Award recipient and received $25,000 to expand computer science and/or robotics education at his school. The Amazon Future Engineer program is a computer science and STEM education program that seeks to aford all young people the opportunity to explore their potential.

“We were excited to fund the development of Armwood High School’s STEAM Lab and equally thrilled to join 2023 Amazon Future Engineer Teacher of Year Ted

Armwood High School faculty, staf, students and other supporters of STEAM education were in attendance at the recent open house. The session ofered a comprehensive overview of the lab’s capabilities, including professional development opportunities for educators interested in integrating innovative technologies into their curriculums.

“We are thrilled to unveil this new STEAM lab space, which represents a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering excellence in education,” remarked Principal Dina Langston. “This initiative would not have been possible without the determination of Mr. Newfield, our computer science teacher, and the unwavering support of our community partners and stakeholders.”

Armwood High School is located at 12000 U.S. 92 in Sefner. It was recently recognized with a National Award of Merit Distinction from Magnet Schools of America. For more information, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/armwood.

Armwood High School recently celebrated the opening of its new STEAM Lab, made possible with a $25,000 grant in honor of STEAM teacher Ted Newfeld.

Craft Vendors, Golf Tournament, Night Of Champions

Gala & More...

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

A Night of Champions Gala

Heart of Adoptions Alliance Inc., a 501(c) (3) nonprofit dedicated to finding safe and loving homes for children, invites you to an exciting event, the Night of Champions Gala, which will touch your heart and ignite a fire of hope and love. The Secret Garden-themed 2024 benefit gala will ofer an evening filled with inspiration, entertainment and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children in need.

The Night of Champions Gala takes place on Friday, April 19, from 7-11 p.m. at 2629 Bayshore Blvd. in Tampa. Enjoy great food, drinks and become part of the live auctions of unique items and experiences to raise funds and create a positive impact on the lives of children in foster care.

Visit https://givebutter.com/c/brixvb to acquire your tickets. For sponsorship information, please contact Dr. Brigette Schupay, executive director of Heart of Adoptions Alliance, at brigette@heartofadoptionsalliance.com.

Bill Wimble Memorial Golf Event

Enjoy a day of golfing and fun on Sunday, April 28, at the seventh annual Bill Wimble Memorial Golf Event held at the beautiful River Hills Country Club. Registration starts at 11a.m. with tee of at 1p.m. Your ticket includes 18 holes of championship golf, free beer, a boxed lunch, a swag bag, a super ticket and dinner back at The Landing. The super ticket enters you for prize drawings and other competitions, including hole-in-one and longest drive. Proceeds from the event benefit Victory Junction Kids Camp, Everyday Blessings and AMVETS; to date, over $60,000 has been donated. For information on how to register for the event, email rvanhall@ymail.com or call 813-6530002.

Pickleball With An Impact Date Change

The Impact Program’s third semiannual Pickleball with an Impact fundraiser will now be taking place on Saturday, April 13, at High 5 Inc. The doubles tournament will start at 8 a.m. and continue until 2 p.m. Entries are $100 per team, which includes lunch and a T-shirt. Single entries, who will be assigned a partner, are $55. All proceeds from the event will go to Impact, which promotes healthy lifestyles and relationships to teens. There will be rafe and silent auction prizes available to win as well. For more information or to register for the event, visit www.whatisimpact.com.

St. Stephen Bingo

Buddy Cruise Annual Golf Fundraiser

a.m. The cost is a $20 donation and includes dessert, cofee and tea. Proceeds from the sale of tickets will be used by St. Vincent de Paul Society to benefit the homeless. Dessert, cofee and tea will be served. There will be a 50/50 rafe and a door prize drawing. Tickets are on sale now. Visit https://popcc.org/ afternoon for more information.

NARFE Meeting

St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 10118 St. Stephen Circle in Riverview, will be hosting its monthly bingo fundraiser on Tuesday, April 23. The games begin at 6:30 p.m., with the doors opening at 5:30 p.m., providing time to socialize and eat. Along with bingo, there will be rafe and door prizes available. The money raised supports the corporal works of mercy by supporting St. Vincent de Paul and THORN Ministries with the purchase of personal hygiene items, socks and blankets. For more information, visit St. Stephen’s website at www. ststephencatholic.org.

Spring Craft Show Vendors Wanted

Immanuel Lutheran School, located at 2913 John Moore Rd. in Brandon, is hosting a Spring Craft Show on Saturday, April 13, and is looking for vendors. The show will take place from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., with setup on Friday evening from 5-8 p.m. Registration is $25 per table that you provide, or $35 if the school provides the table. For more information, contact Steph-

Buddy Cruise is a nonprofit charity that provides educational resources, awareness, inclusion and advocacy for individuals with special needs and their families. It is holding its annual golf fundraiser on Friday, April 5, at The Bayou Club, located at 7979 Bayou Club Blvd. in Largo. Registration begins at 12 Noon and the shotgun start is at 1 p.m. Tickets are $125 per person and include golf, dinner and prizes. For more information about sponsorship opportunities and to register, visit its website at www.buddycruise.org/golf.

‘Lift Up Your Heart’ With Annie Karto

Let your worries and your cares melt away as you listen to award-winning singer, songwriter and inspirational speaker Annie Karto on Thursday, April 11, from 1-3 p.m. in the Conesa Center at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, located at 702 Valley Forge Blvd. in Sun City Center. Tickets will be on sale in the Conesa lobby on Wednesday, April 3; Friday, April 5; and Monday, April 8, from 8:45 a.m.-10:30

National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Chapter 109 in South Tampa will be holding its April meeting on Monday, April 8, at the Tampa Bufet restaurant, located at 3904 S. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Tampa. Lunch will be at 12 Noon, followed by the meeting and guest speaker at 1 p.m. This month’s speaker will be a member of the NARFE Advocacy Team. The meeting is open to members and nonmembers; if you are not a member and would like to join, please contact Diana at 813-340-6401 for additional information.

East Hillsborough Democratic Club Meetings

The East Hillsborough Democratic Club will be holding its monthly meeting on Tuesday, April 9, at the Brandon Crossroads Bowl, located at 609 Crater Ln. in Tampa, starting at 6:30 p.m. Guest speakers will be Rocky Brancato, candidate for the Hillsborough County Ofce of the Public Defender, and Linette ‘Starr’ Brookins, candidate for Hillsborough County judge. Please go to www.easthillsboroughdems. org to register. The Democratic Women’s Club of Southeast Hillsborough County will meet at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, on April 4 from 6-8 p.m. Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer will be the guest speaker. Email sedwcinfo@gmail.com or call 813-9671467 for more information.

anie Winn at 813300-8048 or email winn725@ gmail.com.

A SALTWATER SALUTE TO VETERANS HONORS VETERANS WITH FREE FISHING TRIP

The calm and relaxation one can experience while on the water can do wonders for the soul. Fishing can be a therapeutic experience for anyone, but even more so for military veterans who experience anxiety, depression or PTSD as a result of their service.

Pocket Change

Inshore Fishing Charters and the nonprofit VetCatch are sponsoring A Saltwater Salute to Veterans on Thursday, May 2.

A Saltwater Salute to Veterans takes place in St. Petersburg. The event provides veterans a four-hour chartered fishing trip with a captain, a delicious lunch, a chance to connect with other veterans and entry into a rafe for prizes, all of which is free.

Now in its fifth year, the event was started by Timothy Wilson and captain Anthony Corcella with a goal to help veterans “connect with others alike, on the water, for therapeutic fishing and social relations.”

Corcella is the owner of Pocket Change. He became passionate about taking veterans on the water after a call from a veteran who kept getting turned down by other companies because he had a wheelchair. Corcella took the veteran on his boat and witnessed a true change

By Jane Owen

in the man’s demeanor that he described as calming. After that, Corcella adapted his boat and became passionate about getting veterans on the water.

“If you see their face when the breeze hits them on a boat, everything changes for them. It becomes a feeling where everything calms down for them.” Corcella said. “That’s why we put this day on. We have this day of awesome fellowship with men and women who have served this country. It’s a day of us giving back to them. You know what? Let’s have a calm day. It’s a no pressure day. If we catch fish, it’s a bonus.”

Event coordinator Sarah Branston said they will take out as many veterans as possible and currently have over 100 signed up. The only limiting factor is financial constraints.

A Saltwater Salute to Veterans has a need for monetary donations, rafe items and captains.

Registration is required to participate in A Saltwater Salute to Veterans.

To register, email asaltwatersalutetoveterans@gmail.com or call 813370-6567. To donate, reach out through email or phone, or donate via PayPal at www.paypal.me/roma21690.

ZOOTAMPA UNVEILS NEW AUSTRALIA REALM, STINGRAY SHORES AND

ZooTampa at Lowry Park has been busy continuing its Year of More with the addition of a new marked walking trail, Stingray Shores and the expansion based o f Australia.

The Zoo and the Muma Children’s Hospital at Tampa General Hospital (TGH) teamed up to provide guests of all ages with a walking trail highlighting the best views within the Zoo during their fitness journey. The Zoo’s walking trail is a 1-mile loop situated among nature that connects guests with animal habitats and includes signs every 1/8th mile that help guests follow their progress and stay on track.

Lowry Park’s Stingray Shores is a new interactive habitat that gives guests a chance to touch, feed and even get in the water with the stingrays. The state-of-the-art habitat is home to two species of stingrays, cownose and southern, and features a 30,000-gallon saltwater naturalistic pool that that is low enough for young children to peer and reach into the water yet provide ‘rest zones’ for the animals if they choose to take a break.

WALKING TRAIL LOOP

Guests can enjoy the new walking trail highlighting the best views and covering a 1-mile loop.

Staf Report

The new habitat was made possible through a gift from Kate Tiedemann and Ellen Cotton. The Stingray Signature Encounter is sponsored by the Tampa Bay Rays.

Lowry Park’s latest expansion, Australia, also recently opened. The new area features new experiences and returning favorites.

Families can sign up for an all-new Stingray Signature Encounter and get in the water with the stingrays at the new Stingray Shores.

Guests can enjoy countless hours of excitement while exploring the new area, which features a new family-friendly ride, Aussie Trek, presented by Outback Steakhouse, where parents and kids can go on a safari and learn about Australia’s unique wildlife. The reimagined Billabong Splash Pad, made possible by Bank of America, o f ers more ways for guests of all ages to cool o f in the Florida sun.

An expanded wallaby viewing area offers opportunities to get up close during the new Wallaby Signature Encounter. The Koala Signature Encounter also returns.

Stingray Shores also aims to educate guests on environmental conservation. The area has interpretative signage that provide guests with additional information about helping this important species and ways they can safely share the gulf waters with the ‘angels of the sea.’

With seasonal events, unforgettable animal encounters and up-close experiences, there’s always a reason to visit ZooTampa at Lowry Park. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is featured among the ‘Top 25 Zoos in the U.S.’ by TripAdvisor. ZooTampa at Lowry Park is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. in Tampa. Visit https://zootampa.org/ for more information.

A Saltwater Salute to Veterans honors veterans with a free fshing trip on Tursday, May 2.

So much excitement is in store for guests at the Zoo’s latest expansion, Australia, including the new, expanded splash pad and Aussie Trek train safari.

Child Abuse Prevention calls to all of us for help. The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County invites you to learn more at a free annual event Tuesday, April 16, from 4 to 5:30pm at the Tampa Firefighters Museum, 720 E. Zack Street in Tampa.

There are many ways we all might help to reduce the risks across our region, including involvement with the local Children’s Board Family Resource Center. For more info, go online to childrensboard.org & thanks!

I give free ad space to groups or events that improve our community. Call me with your ideas! Ann Marie

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SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY FUN OPTIONS TO KEEP YOUR KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED

It’s that time of year… Have you thought about your calendar and how you will keep your children busy and engaged during the summer months? Trying to narrow down options that appeal to your children’s interests can be a challenge.

To help, the sta f at the Osprey Ob server has once again collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created a special pullout section highlighting the best in our area. From music and theater to outdoor sports and fun to programming and learning, there are many local options that are sure to appeal to all ages and interests.

5 and up. The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory o f ers arts education courses and programs in dance, theater and music with 50-plus camps

YMCA, Spurlino YMCA in Riverview or the ever-popular outdoor day camp, Camp Cristina in Riverview, the YMCA always mixes a variety of

and classes available.

If you have a child who prefers the outdoors, be sure to look into both Camp Osprey LLC and Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center. Both camps o f er a more traditional summer camp experience and have overnight options as well.

Do you have a performer in the family? At Music Showcase, music and theater take the stage, and so can your child. On o f er will be musicals where your child can hold starring roles in popular musicals provided by the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages

The Olympics will not just be in Paris this summer. Brandon’s High 5 Inc. has an exciting summer planned where your child will experience the thrill of Olympic-style games,

The local YMCAs will o f er many types of camps. Whether at the Campo YMCA, the North Brandon

murai o f ers coding, robotics, YouTube, Roblox and Minecraft camps for all levels and experience.

fun with great learning experiences.

For the sports enthusiasts, specialty camps focused on sports can be found at i9 Sports, Fellowship Church and Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club. Your horse lover will be sure to enjoy a camp at TLC’s Gypsy Haven, where weekly themed riding camps run throughout the summer.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk o f ers full and half-day summer fun with weekly field trips and themes.

Keeping the summer slide away, Mathnasium o f ers a variety of learning opportunities, and Skill Sa -

For dates and registration information on these camps, turn the pages, enjoy this special section and plan to have a great summer. Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link, where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Enter now by emailing (subject line: ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ospreyobserver.com.

Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing jhurst@ospreyobserver. com.

Options for fun abound — enjoy your summer!

ABOUT OUR CAMPS

With over 25 diferent camp options throughout the Tampa YMCA area, there’s something for every camper to enjoy! From art and gymnastics to ziplining and splashing in our pools the Y is the ultimate summer destination.

YMCA

CAMP OSPREY

MATHNASIUM

PATEL CONSERVATORY

MUSIC SHOWCASE

HIGH 5 INC. BRINGS OLYMPICTHEMED ACTIVITIES TO THIS YEAR’S SUMMER CAMP

High 5 Inc. is hosting its annual summer camp beginning weekly on Tuesday, May 28, and running through Friday, August 9. With the Summer Olympics just around the corner, High 5’s Olympic-themed camp this year will give students the opportunity to participate in Olympic-style activities and games.

“Our camp is designed to inspire young athletes and promote teamwork, sportsmanship and a love for physical activity,” said Jada Spano, vice president of operations.

The summer camp has its earliest drop-of time at 7 a.m. and latest pickup at 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The camp will cost participants $160 per week.

Students should provide their own snacks and lunches, as well as bring a change of clothes and a towel. Campers should show up each day in a swimsuit and closed-toed shoes.

“During our Olympic-themed summer camp, campers will have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of sports and activities inspired by the Olympic

By Lily Belcher

Games,” Spano said.

Activities will include track and field events, swimming, soccer and other sports.

“Our experienced and dedicated coaches will guide campers through various training sessions, teaching them the fundamental skills of diferent sports and helping them improve their techniques,” Spano said. There will be around 25 students to each teacher. There will also be a variety of crafts for students, including creating banners to represent their values.

“Campers will learn the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship as they work together towards common goals and cheer each other on,” Spano said.

High 5 Inc. is a nonprofit after school program that supports students learning to swim and special needs education through sports and recreational activities.

High 5 Inc. is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon of State Road 60. For more information about the summer camp or to register, visit https://high5inc. org/ or call 813-689-0908.

MUSIC SHOWCASE AND FLORIDA ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS OFFER FUN CAMPS FOR STUDENTS

Music Showcase

and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts’ annual summer camps o f er a fun, interactive way for students to make friends, learn about music and hone their theater skills all in one week.

The performing arts center o f ers the Music and More Camp and Musical Theatre Camp throughout the summer.

The Music and More Camp o f ers themed activities, including arts and crafts, instruments, acting, singing and more. The camp runs weekly from Tuesday, May 28, through Friday, August 2. Students can enjoy a full day from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with early drop-o f starting at 8 a.m. and late pickup ending at 6 p.m.

“Music and More Camp takes the daily routine and makes it fun and exciting,” said Danielle Sanchez, director of the Florida Academy of the Performing Arts.

The Musical Theatre Camp gives students the opportunity to play di f erent roles in producing their own play. The camp’s dates and times depend on what

By Lily Belcher

show the student is participating in, but some run in the morning or evening.

“Musical Theatre Camps give students an opportunity to participate in a show with or without experience in theater,” Sanchez said. “At the end of the two weeks, students will showcase their new abilities on show.”

The Musical Theatre Camp encourages students to learn stage character and development, work with a set, act, collaborate and build confidence.

The Music and More Camp costs $230 per week and the Musical Theatre Camp costs $275 per week. There is a $30 onetime registration fee for both camps and a $25 sibling discount. Scholarships and multicamp discounts are also available.

Parents should send their children with snacks, lunch and a water bottle. They can wear everyday clothes and shoes.

For more information on Music Showcase’s summer camps or to register in March, visit https://faopa.org/.

High 5 Inc. will host its summer camp with Olympic-themed activities this year.

Music Showcase helps students learn acting, singing and performing skills through its weekly summer camps.

By Libby Hopkins

There’s no better time for kids to catch up and get ahead in math than during the summer break. Now is the time to get Mathnasium on your summer schedule and keep those math skills sharp heading into the fall.

Summer at Mathnasium is a fun and engaging way for your child to keep up their math skills and prepare for the

method that results in true understanding and increased confidence, along with reward opportunities and so much more.

“What I like most watching how we are able to turn math anxiety into math confidence and fun through the Mathnasium Method,” said Alexander. With a summer Mathnasium experience, students can avoid the summer slide, and begin the

With summer fast approaching, parents may be scrambling to figure out fun-filled and educational plans for their children over the break. There are many opportunities for children to have all kinds of experiences. One place that ofers a variety of musical/performing arts classes is the Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory.

By Ashley Abene

camps are ofered during the summer season.

The cost of the summer camp depends on whether a child is signed up for an intensive program, a production, classes/workshops or cross-disciplinary camps. There are also private lessons, pre-camps and post-camps ofered. Financial aid is available in the form of need or merit-based

A performance of Te Little Mermaid in 2023.

SUMMER CAMPS PROVIDE KIDS ENRICHMENT, EDUCATION

LONG

Compiled

High 5 Inc.

Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to embark on an exciting and adventurous journey where your child will experience the thrill of Olympic-style games, kicking o f on Tuesday, May 28, and running through Friday, August 9.

Camp is o f ered Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5 Inc., located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Campers can sign up for individual weeks or throughout the entire summer. To register, visit www.high5inc. org/camp-3.

Camp costs $175 a week per child for nonmembers, and High 5 members can register for $160. To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org or call 813-689-0908.

TLC’s Gypsy Haven

Located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia, TLC’s Gypsy Haven o f ers weekly themed riding camps, for ages 8-99, focused on riding and grooming. The camps take place

from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. from Monday, June 3, to Friday, August 2. Students pack their own lunch, snacks and drinks and are encouraged to wear light pants or leggings, but boots are a must. The camp boasts one teacher, one aide and at least one volunteer per 10 students.

For more information, visit www.tlcsfarms.com, call Tammi at 813-842-4236 or email tlcs2867@aol.com.

Camp Osprey LLC

For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey, which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, zip lining, horseback riding and much more. Camps take place every week starting in June, and campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Day and overnight options

are available, with day camp costing $325 a week and overnight being $795. Meals are provided, and snacks can be purchased in the camp canteen.

COSMO (Camp Osprey

Smoky Mountain Outdoor) adventures are available as well for groups of 12 campers ages 13-16 years old.

The camp is located at 18050 U.S. 301 S. in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-928-6860. For more information, visit www.camposprey.com.

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located on 170 acres of woodland alongside the Alafia River in Lithia.

Camps take place weekly from Sunday to Friday starting on Sunday, June 9, and finishing on Friday, August 2; campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Cedarkirk o f ers overnight camps for older students, and younger campers in grades one through three can attend a shorter three-day camp. Camps range in price from $465-$510 a week and include all meals plus two daily

snacks. Day camp is available for campers who have completed first grade up to those who have completed fifth grade and is priced at $220 per week. Day campers must bring their own lunch. Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-685-4224. For more information and to register, visit https:// cedarkirk.org/.

Kids ‘R’ Kids

Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk is thrilled to announce the Galactic Quest Summer Camp, showcasing unique weekly themes. Featuring a junior camp for kindergarten to second grade and senior camp for third to fifth grade, each week of camp involves a new theme designed to empower and enlighten campers through amusing activities, fascinating field trips, timely lessons in teamwork and so much more. Meals and field trips are included in the weekly cost. Camps are full day and students can sign up on a weekly basis

or for the whole summer.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk is located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-797-5497. Visit www.krkcirca.com for more information and to register.

The Patel Conservatory

off starting at 8 a.m. and late pickup ending at 6 p.m. The Music and More Camp costs $230 per week and the Musical Theatre Camp costs $275 per week; scholarships and multicamp discounts are available. For more information and to register, visit https://faopa.org/.

Club in Valrico. Camps will run all summer Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m.-12 Noon and will cost $185. Advanced/tournament players have a full-day option, including match play and video analysis. Tennis shoes are required. Visit www. buckhornracquet.com for more information.

The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory offers arts education courses and programs in dance, theater and music with 50-plus camps and classes available. Starting on Tuesday, May 28, and ending on Friday, August 2, full and halfday camps are available weekly for ages 4-18. The cost varies depending on the camp; financial aid is available in the form of need or is merit-based. For more information, visit www.patelconservatory.org or call 813-222-1029.

Music Showcase

And The Florida Academy Of Performing Arts

Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts’ annual summer camps offer a fun, interactive way for students to make friends, learn about music and hone their theater skills. The camp runs weekly from Tuesday, May 28, through Friday, August 2, and students can enjoy a full day from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with early drop-

Skill Samurai

Located in Brandon, Skill Samurai’s coding, robotics, YouTube, Roblox and Minecraft camps welcome everyone from seasoned players to first-timers. Skill and experience levels don’t matter, Skill Samurai makes it fun for all. Camps will run from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and begin at $240; discounts for siblings and multicamps are available. Campers need to bring lunch and wear closed-toed shoes. For more information and to register, visit https://skillsamurai.com/ fl-brandon.

Fellowship Church

Fellowship Church, located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia, will be hosting half-day sports summer camps each week over the summer starting on Monday, June 3. Drop-off is available from 8:15 a.m., and campers must be collected promptly at 12:30 p.m. Sports will include soccer, flag football and basketball. Please visit the website for the weekly sport and age range. The cost is $115 per week. To register, visit www.fellowship.church.

6:30 p.m. Martial arts classes are fun and exciting while packing fitness and self-defense into each session. Your child will also develop more confidence, focus and discipline. Campers are advised to wear activewear bottoms and closedtoe shoes with the camp T-shirt, as well as bring two snacks and a packed lunch. Sidekicks is located at 16132 Churchview Dr., Ste. 210 in Lithia. More information can be found on its website at https://ilovesidekicks.com/ fishhawk-camp.

YMCA

Buckhorn Springs Racquet Club

Do you have a budding tennis player? Sign them up for summer camp at Buckhorn Springs Racquet Club, located in Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country

Sidekicks Family Martial Arts Centers Sidekicks

Family Martial Arts Centers’ summer camp will run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with early drop-o f available at 7 a.m. and late pickup until

At the YMCA, “campers are given a safe space to discover who they are and what they want to become while building character through activities based on the Y core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility,” said Hannah Geaumont, communications and social media manager of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA.

Local YMCAs, including the Campo Family YMCA, Spurlino Family YMCA and

North Brandon YMCA, will o f er everything from sports and drama to art and coding, in addition to swimming and playing. Camp Cristina in Riverview will have a wide range of activities, such as traditional day camp favorites and unique options like Horse Camp, Counselors in Training and Waterfront Camp. To learn more about the YMCA summer camps, visit www.tampaymca.org.

Easterseals School For Limitless Learning

Get ready for an exciting and inclusive adventure designed specifically for neurodiverse young learners at Easterseals School for Limitless Learning, located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170 in Valrico. Its summer camp aims to create a supportive and engaging environment where every child can thrive. The camp is available throughout July, with morning, afternoon and all-day sessions available. Sessions are $250 per week, with all-day camp being $450 per week. For more information, visit its website at www.easterseals.com/florida/ programs-and-services/.

Mathnasium

There’s no better time for kids to catch up and get ahead in math than during the summer break. Summer at Mathnasium is a fun and engaging way for your child to keep up their math skills and prepare for the year ahead. It has a proven teaching method that results in true understanding and increased confidence, along with reward opportunities and more. For more information, call Mathnasium’s Brandon center, located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, at 813-655-MATH (6284). You can also visit www. mathnasium.com/brandon. The Riverview center, located at 13388 S. U.S. 301 in Riverview, can be contacted on 813-565-1102 or visited at www.mathnasium.com/ riverview.

Tampa Dynamo FC

FC is a player-centered club — go see what it’s about. Visit www.tampadynamofc.com or call 813-677-1133 for more information.

Theatre Arts And Dance Alliance

Tampa Dynamo FC is o f ering a summer soccer camp for players of all levels and abilities. Camp will be held Monday to Friday, June 17-21, from 8:30 a.m.-12 Noon for ages U7-U14 (2018-2011). Tryout registration is also now open, with tryouts beginning Wednesday, May 1, for the 2024-25 season. Tampa Dynamo

Theatre Arts and Dance Alliance (TADA) is hosting a variety of camps this summer, including dance, music and theater for children ranging from 3-18 years of age. TADA is located at 16711 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. Camps are o f ered as full and half-day options, with the earliest drop-o f being at 8:30 a.m. and the latest pickup at 4:30 p.m. Discounts are available for siblings, multicamp and early-bird registration. Please visit its website at www.tadance.com/iweb/tadaprograms/summer. html or call 813571-0901 for more information and to register.

AR Workshop

Brandon

camps or series! Kids can enjoy creating a masterpiece that they can take with them and display at home or give it as a gift for a special friend or family member.

AR Workshop Brandon is hosting weekly camps with two sessions a day for kids ages 6-17 years of age. The first session is 9:30-12:30 p.m. and the second session is from 1:30-4 p.m. It will o f er a few one-day options available as well. Snacks will be available for purchase, or campers may bring their own. Early bird, multicamp and sibling promotions are available.

AR Workshop Brandon is located at 1046 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For a complete list of the summer camp schedule, visit www.arworkshop.com/brandon/ to see AR Workshop’s calendar or call 813-775-7109.

Code Wiz FishHawk

Calling all parents! Register your child for a hands-on crafting experience in one of AR Workshop Brandon’s summer

Code Wiz FishHawk will be running full and half-day camps for students interested in computers and coding. Camp activities will include Roblox , robotics, Minecraf t and building your own 2D/3D video games. The half-day camp runs from 9 a.m.-12 Noon and from 1-4 p.m.; a full-day is from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. It is $350

for a week of half-day camp and $550 for a week of full-day camp; discounts are available for siblings, multicamp and early-bird registrations. Code Wiz FishHawk is located in Park Square at 16132 Churchview Dr. in Lithia. For more information, visit https://thecodewiz.com/ fishhawk-fl or call 813-820-6583.

Ostingers Baseball Academy

Learn baseball from the pros at Ostingers Baseball Academy. With a combined 30 years of professional playing and coaching experience, Ostingers

Baseball coaches are ready to provide young athletes with safe fun this summer.

Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players ages 7-14 years old at the academy’s fields in Lithia. Your child will develop a better understanding of the game of baseball through instruction, drills and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp.

To learn more, visit https://ostingbaseball.com/ or call 813-737-3000.

YMCA SUMMER CAMPS OFFER FUN AND ADVENTURE

It’s almost summer camp season, and more than 5,000 participants are expected at the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA’s 12 family centers.

“Our campers can expect a new spin on fun, friends and adventure this year,” said Hannah Geaumont, communications and social media manager of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA. “Campers are given a safe space to discover who they are and what they want to become while building character through activities based on the Y core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.”

Locally, area centers, including the Campo Family YMCA, Spurlino Family YMCA and North Brandon YMCA, will ofer everything from sports and drama to art and coding, in addition to swimming and playing. Camp Cristina in Riverview will have a wide variety of activities for children and teens, such as traditional day camp favorites and unique options like Horse Camp, Counselors in Training and Waterfront Camp.

Tampa Y camps are geared toward ages 6-15. Participants will experience a fun summer filled with friendships, adventures and phenomenal memories. Dave Boyle,

By Libby Hopkins

executive director of Camp Cristina, oversees camps.

“This camp season, while we continue to cherish the timeless traditions that have always defined us, we are excited to introduce a modern twist to these classic elements,”

Boyle said. “Central to our refreshed approach is a renewed emphasis on fostering meaningful connections. Our counselors bring a unique blend of diverse backgrounds and skills, allowing us to ofer a personalized experience that caters to the individual needs and interests of every camper. They serve as role models, demonstrating values and attitudes that leave a lasting impact on the campers, shaping not just their summer but their character and life outlook. Importantly, they create a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where campers feel comfortable to be themselves, fostering respect and appreciation for others.”

Campers will have the opportunity to develop friendships and experience a sense of belonging.

Tampa Y Summer Camp registration is now open. If you’d like to learn more about the YMCA Summer Camps, visit www.tampaymca.org.

Te Tampa YMCA has locations throughout the county to provide your child with camp memories to last a lifetime.

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS, SUN ’N FUN AEROSPACE EXPO RETURNS APRIL 9-14

It may be hard to fathom, but the SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Plenty of fan-favorite attractions will return, along with several new experiences that debut at this year’s expo, which is from Tuesday to Sunday, April 9-14.

The celebration kicks of with SUN ’n FUN’s Opening Day Concert, featuring Dylan Scott with special guest Sara Evans. The expo will showcase over 600 acres of static displays of all types of aircraft, including vintage, homebuilt, aerobatic, warbird, military, light sport, seaplanes and rotorcraft. Among new features will be the Future ’n Flight Plaza, focusing on innovative technology, aviation careers and flight simulation experiences. Children will enjoy a newly established Aviation Playground that promises to inspire.

Throughout the six-day event, daily airshows will include spectacular military demonstrations by the USAF Thunderbirds, the U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet Demo Team, Tora Tora Tora, Commemorative Air Force Warbirds and the Ghost Squadron. The Wednesday and Saturday night airshows will be just as riveting, featuring aerobatics by world-class airshow performers, pyrotechnics and fireworks.

A special appearance will be made by the

Staf Report

four-engine, tri-tailed Lockheed VC-121A Constellation — nicknamed ‘The Connie’ — a meticulously restored 1948 transport that once served the military, U.S. presidents and NASA. The Commemorative Air Force will ofer rides on several legendary warbirds, including the B-29 Superfortress ‘FIFI,’ the B-24 Liberator ‘Diamond Lil,’ the P-51 Mustang ‘Gunfighter’ and an RC-45J Expeditor.

Over 500 exhibitors will present an expansive lineup of aviation-related products and services. Pilots and maintainers will benefit from hands-on workshops focused on building and maintenance skills and dozens of topical forums. Youth will have an opportunity to engage in STEM activities, including flight simulation, robotics, drones, riveting and wing rib building.

For added comfort, look for the air-conditioned tent designed for families to unwind or the newly added shaded resting spots.

Weekly and single-day tickets to the 2024 SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo can be purchased online or upon arrival. Children 10 and under will be admitted for free. Detailed information about the fly-in can be found at https://flysnf.org/.

LITTLE MEDICAL SCHOOL CAMP COMES TO BRANDON

Little Medical School (LMS) is deeply rooted in founder Dr. Mary Mason’s love of family, medicine and education. In 1998, Mason wrote her first lesson plan and enlisted her medical residents to teach local teenagers. This passion for encouraging careers in health care culminated in the creation of LMS in 2010. Today, it is a pioneer and leading developer of specialized curriculum and interactive resources for children ages 1-14.

Little Medical School of Tampa Bay inspires healthy lifestyles in children as they learn about medical careers.

LMS of Tampa Bay works with educators, healthcare leaders and community organizations to inspire healthy lifestyles in children as they learn about medical careers.

LMS-trained instructors are also community members ranging from aspiring world changers, practicing medical providers and accomplished educators. All programs were written and reviewed by board-certified and trained health care professionals.

Kristina Helton, owner of LMS of Tampa Bay, will be bringing the LMS Summer Camp to the Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association.

“This summer, we are ofering our Little Doctor School program at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association from June 17-21. Students in grades K-5 will have the opportunity to assume the role of a doctor,” Helton said. “Camp participants will role-play

By Libby Hopkins

the key responsibilities of a doctor and learn about vital organs in the human body. These future doctors will learn how to use a stethoscope, blood pressure cuf and reflex hammer. They will practice administering first aid, learn how pharmacists play a role in administering medications and create models of parts of the body to learn how they work.”

Campers receive daily activities and products to keep and practice with at home. At the end of the week, families are invited to attend a ceremony where the campers will ‘graduate’ with their own student lab coat, a real working stethoscope and a diploma.

“We are super excited to have the Little Medical School Summer Camp at Center Place this summer,” said Center Place’s executive director, Libby Hopkins.

“We’ve had such a positive response to our programs,” Helton said. “They are unlike anything else ofered in our area.”

For more information, visit https://littlemedicalschool.com/tampabay/. To register your child for LMS Summer Camp, visit www.littlemedicalschool.com/tampabay/ center-place-fine-arts-camp/. The cost is $250.

The Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B, inside the Brandon Regional Library.

Photo courtesy of SUN’ n FUN. Among the many other daily airshows, there will be demonstrations by the USAF Tunderbirds during the six-day event.

TAMPA’S OLDEST THEATRE WELCOMES ITS YOUNGEST MOVIEGOERS FOR FAMILY FAVORITES FILMS

Tampa Theatre, Tampa’s oldest theater, is ofering its Kid-Inspired Movie Series during the months of March and April. Tampa Theatre offers area residents the chance to see their beloved family films on the big screen in a beautifully restored movie palace.

Tampa Theatre has been a favorite destination for Bay-area moviegoers for generations. This March and April, the next generation of young fans will get the chance to see some of their parents’ most beloved childhood films on the big screen, thanks to the Family Favorites classic movie series, presented by Bank of America.

“While many of our summer and holiday classic oferings are family-friendly, this is the series that we program specifically with families in mind,” said Jill Witecki, the theater’s vice president and director of marketing. “We want parents to be able to introduce their kids to some of their own favorite movies from childhood and experience that nostalgia of seeing them on the big screen again,” added Witecki.

The 2024 Family Favorites series in-

By Kathy L. Collins

cludes a great variety of films, all rated PG. First up, go see the 2004 animated film The Incredibles on Sunday, March 24, at 3 p.m.

Then, you can enjoy the 2004 Fantasy film Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events on Sunday, March 31, at 3 p.m.

Kick of the month of April with a viewing of the 1999 Animated film The Iron Giant on Sunday, April 7, at 3 p.m.

Who would not want to see the 1991 Adventure film, Hook, featuring Dustin Hofman as Captain Hook and Robin Williams as Peter Pan? Hook will be shown on Sunday, April 21, at 3 p.m.

Then, finish of the series by seeing The Lego Movie, an animated film from 2014, on the big screen on Sunday, April 28, at 3 p.m.

Tickets for Family Favorites classic movies are $10 for grownups and $8 for children ages 3-12. You can get tickets at either the historic Franklin Street Box Ofce or online at https://tampatheatre. org/. Tampa Theatre is located at 711 N. Franklin St. in downtown Tampa.

Summer Camp

TAMPA BAY RODEO & FAMILY FESTIVAL RETURNS IN APRIL FOR A ROPIN’ GOOD TIME

Ready, set, rodeo! For a ropin’ good time, head to the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday, April 12 and 13, for the Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford. The best cowboys and cowgirls in the southeast region are saddling up for a full rodeo with two days of bull riding, bronco busting, barrel racing, calf roping, team roping and bull dogging. Tickets are on sale now for this adrenaline-pumping event.

Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival features a full rodeo plus plenty of activities, good food and music for families to enjoy.

“This year’s rodeo features the most crowd-pleasing rodeo events, so each night will be full of action and thrills,” said event producer Ryan Henning. “The best male and female competitors in the region will vie for cash prizes, and they’ll need to beat the best livestock in the southeast to win.”

Fans arriving early for the Family Festival will enjoy live music, delicious food and entertaining activities for the whole group. Emmet Stevens Jr. takes the stage in the Bartow Ford Beer Barn each night playing toe-tapping country music hits. Known for the variety of good eats available, the Family Festival this year ofers corn dogs, barbecue, tacos, funnel cakes, ice cream, pizza, hot-pressed Cuban sandwiches and much more.

EXCITING TRIPS PLANNED!

• Sea Screamer Dolphin Tour

• Behind the Scenes Bucs Stadium

• Tampa International Tour

• Tampa Firefghter Museum

• Ringling Museum Circus Show

• Bricks4Kidz

• Pump It Up

• Rays Game

• Pin Chasers Bowling

• Rotary Playground at Hernando’s Landing

WEEKLY VISITS FROM:

• KidoKinetics

• Amazing Athletes

• FOAM Party

• SNOW Party

• Water Slides

Weekly rate includes all meals and feld trips.

Guests can test their skills on the highly popular mechanical bull, which has levels for beginners or those brave enough to try it like a pro. They can try their hand at axe throwing; take pictures with snakes, monkeys and a giant hay wall backdrop; play free games, such as Jenga and corn hole; and slide down the giant slide. Visitors looking for elevated action can ride a camel, an elephant or even a monster truck. Family and friends will experience an exhilarating evening of rodeo action, food and endless fun filled with excitement and heart-pounding thrills.

“We love to see people enjoying time together, listening to music, grabbing some dinner and playing games that both the kids and adults enjoy,” added Henning. “The night packed with food, fun and a full rodeo promises to keep everyone entertained.”

This is a rain-or-shine event, and all ticket sales are final and nonrefundable. Gates open at 5 p.m., and the Rodeo begins at 8 p.m. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover at the intersection of State Road 60 and Sydney Washer Road, just east of Brandon. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/rodeo-and-family-festival/.

Tampa Teatre’s Kid-Inspired Movie Series returns, with several beloved family flms.

Introducing Rosy Flowers & Tea

Rosy Flowers & Tea, located at 11292 Sullivan St. in Riverview, is your one-stop destination for all things flowers, tea and gifts. As a new addition to Hillsborough County, Rosy o f ers an array of services guaranteed to brighten your day, including stunning event flower arrangements and handcrafted bouquets and gifts available in-store. Dive into the art of flower arranging with fun and informative classes. Need a break? Indulge in Rosy Flowers & Tea’s charming afternoon tea experiences or simply swing by for a hot cuppa on the go.

Stop by Rosy Flowers & Tea and live life in full bloom. Book the next Flower Arranging Class on Friday, May 10, for Mother’s Day online at www.rosyflowersandtea.com or call 813-6572428.

The Enrichment Nest Child Development Center

Brandy Crowley recently celebrated the opening of her new child care center in Valrico with a ribbon-cutting from the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce. O f ering care to children ages 3 months to 11 years old, The Enrichment Nest Child Development Center believes in

fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can grow, learn and thrive. It also o f ers VPK and is a school readiness provider using a creative curriculum. Located at 2566 SR 60 in Valrico, The Enrichment Nest Childcare Center is open from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. For additional information, call 813-593-2544 or visit its website at https://enrichmentnest.com/.

Raining Cats And Dogs Selected As Charity Of Choice

Raining Cats and Dogs Shelter and Sanctuary was recently selected to be the Charity of Choice by the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce. This honor was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Raining Cats and Dogs is a Plant City-based

shelter that serves Hillsborough and Polk counties. It accepts owner surrenders, focusing on small dogs and senior pets. Adoptable animals are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, tested for FIV, FeLV and heartworms and microchipped before going to new homes. The shelter has been at full capacity for the last year due to the sheer number of owner surrenders. To view adoptable animals and for more information, visit its website at www. rainingcatsanddogsshelter.com.

HCA Florida

Brandon Hospital Donates

To

Hope For Her HCA Florida Brandon Hospital donated $5,000 to Hope for Her to

support the nonprofit’s efforts to help women and children through difficult circumstances. Hope for Her is a safe place for women experiencing a crisis and trauma to find the strength, support and skills they need to rebuild their best lives.

“Children are in need right now in our community. We want to assist Hope for Her, a nonprofit that plays a vital role in helping families cope and work through challenging circumstances. It is part of our values to care for our patients like family, which extends to our greater community,” said Tripp Owings, CEO of HCA Florida Brandon Hospital.

For more information about HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, located at 119 Oakfield Dr in Brandon, visit https:// hcahealthcare.com/.

For more information about Hope for Her, located at 140 Yarborough Rd. in Brandon, visit www.hopeforherfl.org.

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

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Area residents can trust the experts at the locally owned and operated Pegasus Coating for any concrete coating needs. Using Penntek’s polyurea coatings for residential, commercial and industrial applications, its team of experts will deliver high-quality results with a lifetime warranty that is four-times stronger than epoxy. Whether it is a new installation or repair, the team will work with you to customize your garage floors, patios, pool decks, driveways, commercial and industrial coverings.

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By Kathy L. Collins

attend Hillsborough County Public Schools. This year’s Teacher of the Year, Dr. Clayton Nylund, a physics and engineering instructor from Howard W. Blake High School in Tampa was not only chosen for the prestigious award, but he was also given a very special gift.

Astro Skate of Brandon donated a five-day, four-night trip to Hawaii for the Teacher of the Year in Hillsborough County. The gift includes hotel and airfare.

Joe Hanna, on behalf of Chris Maganias, owner of Astro Skating Centers, said, “The gift was given to show Astro Skate’s appreciation for our schools and communities as well as to promote our skating rink’s dedication and service to our education system.”

While this is the first time a Teacher of the Year in Hillsborough County has been bestowed with such a tremendous gift, it is not the first time that Astro Skating Centers have given one.

In the past, as Hanna explained, “We

started a couple years ago in a Volusia County to Madison Miller as well as Pinellas County with last year’s winner, Adam Zele. Both teachers stated that this was the trip of a lifetime. We saw the appreciation and the ability to give some of these great teachers a chance to go on a trip that they maybe would never have had the opportunity to do so before and create a lasting memory that they can contribute to Astro Skating Centers.”

Hanna added, “Astro Skating Centers are more than just a skating rink, we are a huge part of life to many young people as well as old. Roller skating rinks are historic, and many people have had their first date, their first kiss, they have met the love of their life or just have helped to mold young people into better men and women growing up. Our communities need skating rinks, and, working together with the school systems, we can keep these kids going in the right direction.”

This year’s award ceremony was held on February 1 in Morsani Hall at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa.

For more information, please visit www.hillsboroughschools.org.

Hillsborough County Teacher of Year Dr. Clayton

Nylund from Howard W. Blake High School — shown here with Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Van Ayers (left) and Anna Corman (right), Hillsborough Education Foundation’s interim CEO — was not only honored with the award, but he was also given the trip of a lifetime courtesy of Astro Skate of Brandon. Nylund will be treated to a fve-day, fournight trip to Hawaii.