Aug Bloom:FH 2025

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk

COMMUNITY WINS BIG IN HONORARY

MAYOR RACE: BRAND, MERKLE RAISE OVER $120K FOR LOCAL CHARITIES

For Michael Brand and Abi Merkle, it was never about the money or winning — Honorary Mayor of East Hillsborough County was about the charities they could support.

Brand won, raising around $64,000 for his three charities: Hope for Her, ECHO and Boys and Girls With Confidence.

His original goal was $50,000, which he surpassed with the help of the community.

By Lily Belcher

accomplish together as a community,” said Merkle.

“This race wasn’t about politics — it was about purpose and bringing more awareness to just some of the nonprofits in our area.”

Owner of AM Designs & Services, Merkle held a clay shoot and second chance prom to drum up financial support in the race.

“It was pretty exciting,” he said. “I was surprised.”

Brand, who is the owner of 55 Rides, hosted several community fundraisers, including a bourbon tasting and softball tournament.

He said the charities were also excited to see his efforts bring in almost 30 percent more than they were expecting.

“My first reaction was just excitement for the charities because I know they could use the extra money,” he said.

And while Merkle didn’t take home the sash, she still raised nearly $58,000.

The money was divided up between We Are The Essentials, the Impact Program and the Angel Foundation FL.

“I’m so proud of what we were able to

She said the effort made a difference in the community, providing hope for the people who need it.

At the end of the competition, both candidates hand-delivered checks to their charities, providing financial support and recognition for the work they are doing.

Brand said the charities were “ecstatic” to see the extra money, especially during the summer when financial support is usually down.

“It just really comes at a good time for them,” he said. “So, they were all very, very happy about it. There were some tears.”

Throughout the effort, both candidates attended some of each other’s events, wanting to support the main goal of the race of supporting local charities.

Now that he has won, Brand won’t get to run for honorary mayor again, but Merkle can make another run in future races.

“We want to congratulate our honorary mayor’s race and the community for so graciously stepping up and making the whole community the real winner in this phenomenal race,” Kathy Vircik of the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce said.

MIELKE FOUNDATION REELS IN SUPPORT FOR FOSTER YOUTH THROUGH FISHING AND FUNDRAISING

By Kelly Wise Valdes

The MIELKE Foundation, a nonprofit devoted to uplifting foster children and families in need, continues to leave a lasting impact through its ever-growing charitable programs and fundraising initiatives. Since its founding in 2017, the organization has provided vital financial support and hosted engaging events aimed at enriching the lives of children navigating the challenges of the foster care system.

Launched with a clear and powerful mission — to improve the lives of foster children — the foundation has steadily expanded its reach and influence.

“Thanks to our unwavering supporters, that mission has grown into something truly impactful — enhancing quality of life, raising awareness for adoption, building homes, awarding scholarships and creating job opportunities for those aging out of care,” said Dana Pope, vice president of human resources and communications at MIELKE Holdings.

Among its hallmark programs is the beloved annual Casting for Kids Charity Fishing Tournament. Now a mainstay in the Tampa Bay area, the tournament raises essential funds for organizations supporting foster youth while forging meaningful connections among community leaders, families and advocates. The event pairs business professionals, generous sponsors and seasoned anglers with top captains for a weekend that blends outdoor adventure with heartfelt pur-

pose.

“What started as taking kids fishing has evolved into meaningful, life-changing connections,” said Pope. “We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our supporters, who have helped us raise over $200,000 this year — bringing our total to more than $1.2 million in support of children in the foster system and beyond.”

This year’s eighth annual Casting for Kids event, held from May 2-3, featured a festive welcome party at The Floridian Social, followed by a spirited fishing competition at The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in downtown St. Petersburg. Many gathered to celebrate, compete and unite around a shared cause.

The MIELKE Foundation continues to welcome involvement from individuals and businesses alike. Whether through sponsorships, donations or volunteer opportunities, there are countless ways to make an impact. For updates and ways to get involved, visit https://mielkefoundation.org/ or follow the foundation on Facebook.

Michael Brand and Abi Merkle raised more than $121,000 for local charities in the honorary mayor race.

The MIELKE Foundation raised more than $200,000 to support foster children and families in need this year at its annual Casting for Kids event.

Proud Supporters of ECHO

17TH ANNUAL CAMP BAYOU BACK TO SCHOOL - BACK TO NATURE EVENT

The 17th annual Camp Bayou Back to School - Back to Nature event will be held this year on Saturday, August 9, from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. As always, the event is free. Stop by a table to learn something new about nature and receive a free school supply item, while supplies last. A free raffle for all children will offer larger prizes, such as backpacks, lunch packs and more. Other organizations that are participating this year include: Paleo Preserve Fossil Museum, Alafia River State Park, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, Hillsborough County Conservation & Environmental Lands Management and The Florida Aquarium.

Camp Bayou continues to offer day paddle trips on the first and third Saturdays of each month at 9 a.m. The tour is $25 if you need to use one of its canoes or kayaks, or $5 if you bring your own. Registration required; call 813-641-8545.

Save the date: The camp’s Fall Fright Fest will be held on Saturday, October 4, from 5-9 p.m. The first walks, beginning at 6 p.m., will be for the young ones; they’ll be learning about native nocturnal wildlife. The 7 p.m. and later walks will have stories about past misadventures at Camp Bayou and the spirits who can’t rest. Then, join in by the campfire for s’mores. A donation of $5 per person is requested to help cover the cost of supplies. Registration will start in September.

For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is look-

Report

ing for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through handson activities, walks and canoe tours, as well as help with maintenance and exhibits. Contact Becki at 813-641-8545 or fill out the form at www.campbayou.org. The camp is mainly looking for folks to help teach K-6 school groups, but there are other opportunities as well.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is neither a campground nor a summer camp. It was an RV park before the county’s ELAP program purchased the land, but it is now open to the general public for day use only.

Through volunteers, donations, supporters and grants, the managing nonprofit, Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery Inc. (B.O.L.D.), offers preregistered programs to schools, youth groups, adult groups and families. The center is open from Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. for passive recreational pursuits, such as wildlife watching, nature photography and trail walks. General admission is still free.

Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is a public-private partnership between B.O.L.D. and Hillsborough County Conservation & Environmental Lands Management. Camp Bayou is located 3 miles south of State Road 674 at the end of 24th St. SE in Ruskin. Check out the Camp Bayou Facebook page, and for more information, visit www.campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545.

CODE WIZ INSPIRES YOUNG MINDS WITH HANDS-ON STEM EDUCATION

Many businesses in FishHawk are loved by the community and have become staples for many to frequently visit. One of these is Code Wiz, nestled in Park Square. The business began with Reggie and April Moore, who gained inspiration from their son, whose passion was in coding and games. They began brainstorming for places where he could go to learn more about this activity but fell short after realizing there weren’t many options available. So, they decided to come up with their own, and thus Code Wiz was born.

Reggie explained that the mission behind the business is to “empower the next generation of thinkers, creators and innovators through fun and engaging STEM education.” He wants kids to have a fun place to grow and develop their interests/talents in the science world.

Reggie and April want all kids to feel good about coding and know their support in their journey. Also, by “investing in children’s education and creativity today, [they’re] helping shape a brighter, more innovative community tomorrow,” he said.

Within the programs that Code Wiz provides, children ages 5-15 can learn to contextualize, orient, develop, evaluate

By Alisa Gershman

and synthesize their skills in the coding world. This is done on programs such as Python, JavaScript and Scratch, while also exploring games like Minecraft and Roblox Code Wiz provides events such as “after-school programs, summer camps, homeschool enrichment classes and even birthday parties — all centered around making STEM exciting and accessible for every child, no matter their background or experience level,” said Reggie.

The overall goal is to “develop problem-solving, logical thinking, teamwork, creativity and perseverance” for all kids within the Code Wiz family, he said. Not only does it focus on the tech side, but it also makes sure kids are comfortable in all aspects of their lives, which is Code Wiz’s key mission in the end. This locally owned business inspires many families and children throughout FishHawk to explore their coding journey through a safe space. It offers the first class for free for prospective community members and has a variety of different classes to choose from. More information can be found on its website at https:// thecodewiz.com/fishhawk-fl/.

Joanna

Code Wiz’s instructors work with kids to help develop their coding skills.

LOCAL PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR HELPS FIND THE MISSING

Shelley Croft is a local private investigator and an active member of the nonprofit group We Are The Essentials. In both of her roles, Croft carries out many types of cases. Some of these cases include criminal defense and domestic surveillance in her private practice, and missing persons cases as a member of We Are The Essentials.

We Are The Essentials is a Florida-based nonprofit group founded in 2021. It is made up of former military members and law enforcement officers who now work as search and recovery investigators to find missing persons all over the United States. Even with such an intense need for its work, as a nonprofit, We Are The Essentials’ resources are limited.

By Emma Snider

background information about the individual, such as where and why they may have gone missing.

“We always say, ‘Help us help the next family.’ That’s just kind of our motto,” said Croft. “Because we are a new nonprofit, we don’t have any government funding. A lot of the financial aspects of what we do has come out of our pockets.”

For a requested case with We Are The Essentials, it will typically do an intake session with a family member of the missing person. This is useful for gaining

As a private investigator at the Prison Break Investigations agency, Croft has serviced Florida for 12 years. She started her practice after being asked to come work for her good friend, Billy Lane, who is currently another member of We Are The Essentials. She interned at his agency for two years and has been a licensed private investigator ever since.

To find more information regarding Shelley Croft, or inquire about her cases, visit www.prisonbreakinvestigations.com or call her at 863-738-3201. Prison Break Investigations can also be found on Facebook.

To get more information regarding current missing persons cases being pursued, request a case, contact or donate to We Are The Essentials, visit www. wearetheessentials.com, go to its Facebook page at ‘We Are The Essentials’ or contact Croft. On We Are The Essentials’ Facebook posts, many members’ numbers are available to be used to contact them directly.

HILLSBOROUGH’S ACTIVE LIFE GAMES ENCOURAGES PHYSICAL MENTAL FITNESS FOR AGES 50-PLUS

Registration for Active Life Games began on July 10. The event is organized by Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation to help promote physical and mental fitness through an Olympics-style competition for athletes ages 50 and older.

“Get ready to play, laugh and connect at the 44th annual Active Life Games, hosted by Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation, in partnership with City of Tampa Parks & Recreation and Friends of the County Parks,” said Mikah Collins, community relations coordinator for Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation.

By Nick Nahas

Registration continues through Friday, September 12. The cost is $25 for one event or $35 for unlimited events. There is an additional $35 charge for those participating in the golf competition, which includes a cart.

The event, which began in the 1980s, has hundreds of participants each year and offers a variety of contests for all skill and fitness levels. The 2025 Active Life Games will be held from Monday, September 29, through Friday, October 10, with events including track and field, shuffleboard, pickleball, billiards and horseshoes. Individual competitions are held over two weeks at a variety of locations throughout Hillsborough County.

“These Olympic-style games aren’t just about medals — they’re about memories,” said Colins. “From pickleball to lawn bowling, it’s all about fun, friendly competition and the joy of staying active together. Whether you’re returning to catch up with old friends or diving in for the first time, everyone 50 and better is welcome.”

“Starting Sept. 29, the games span over two weeks, across 10 locations, featuring 14 exciting sports and plenty of opportunities to cheer each other on,” said Collins. “Plus, top performers in each age group may qualify for the Florida State Senior Games.”

Registration forms and a complete schedule of events can be found at https:// hcfl.gov/activelife.

The opening ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m. on September 29 at Barksdale Senior Center, located at 1801 N. Lincoln Ave. in Tampa. The closing ceremonies are at 11 a.m. on October 10 at the Victor Crist Community Center, located at 14013 N. 22nd St. in Tampa.

“Join the fun, bring your friends and be part of something special,” said Collins. “Visit hcfl.gov/activelife for all the details on how to sign up, view the schedule and get in the game.”

Shelley Croft is a licensed private investigator and a volunteer with We Are The Essentials.

Photos courtesy of Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation

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The bestseller for Volkswagen (VW) has undergone a major transformation for 2025. Sitting between the smaller Taos and the larger Atlas, the Tiguan takes on a new look and a boost in power, and now it is available solely as a five-passenger compact SUV. So, if you are looking for anything bigger in the VW family, opt for the seven-seater Atlas.

Under the hood sits a turbo, intercooled and direct-injected 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine putting out 201 horsepower (up 17 from 2024) at 5,000 rpm and 221 pounds-feet of torque at 1,500 rpm. Quick off the mark, responding with agility in any situation (weighs 170 pounds fewer than its predecessor), this third-generation SUV is equipped with a flawless, eight-speed auto gearbox. Ensconced on the unitary body, available as a front-wheel drive or our 4MOTION (allwheel-drive) tester version, is a robust and reliable strut-type front and a multilink rear suspension. The electric power steering is quick and communicative to result in a positive on-center response. Drive modes include eco, comfort, sport, custom, off-road and snow.

Slimmer LED headlights meet up on a light bar to surround the centered, illuminated VW crest on the grille. The SEL R-Line trim fetches you roof rails, bumpers and headliners (all in black, of course), as well as an exclusive R-Line badging inside and out. The gorgeous cabin exemplifies European styling with a simple but elegant instrument panel of large analog speedometer/tachometer gauges and driver information center. New for 2025 is a column-mounted gear shift-

er, saving space in the center area. The infotainment touchscreen for audio, phone and nav controls is a mammoth 15 inches, sitting atop the dashboard. Passenger volume is praiseworthy at 126 cubic feet, an increase of 2 cubes from the prior year. Audiophiles will take to the 700-watt, 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Ambient light options of at least 30 colors, stainless-steel pedal caps, front-door sill scuff plates and American walnut wood trim are a fine touch. Other amenities include a panoramic power sunroof and lift gate, three-zone auto AC with second-row air vents, a head-up display, a three-spoke power leather tilt/ telescopic steering column, eight-way power driver and front-passenger heated/cooled seats and a wireless phone charger.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbags for both rows, front knee airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, electronic stability with antislip regulation and engine brake assist, traction control, lane departure and forward collision warning, a blind-spot monitor, rear traffic alert, park distance control, three-point seatbelts for all positions, adaptive cruise control, a rearview camera, a tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard.

The Tiguan sticks out in the swarming compact SUV field, thanks to a sprightly engine, exceptional handling and balance, everyday practicality and decent fuel economy. As for its odd-sounding name, look at it as a boon for once. It’s German for ‘tiger’ and ‘iguana.’

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR 2025–26 LEADERSHIP BRANDON PROGRAM

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce has officially opened applications for its 2025–2026 Leadership Brandon class, a premier civic engagement and leadership development initiative that has been shaping local leaders since 1985.

Spanning nine months from September to May, the program offers participants exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to key institutions and organizations across the Greater Tampa Bay area. From economic development and education to law enforcement, health and infrastructure, each month features a focused ‘Leadership Development Day’ held on the third Thursday.

Geared toward emerging and established professionals alike, the program emphasizes personal growth, community awareness and service. Past participants have included small business owners, nonprofit leaders, mid-level managers and entrepreneurs from Brandon, Riverview, Seffner and Valrico.

A major feature of the program is the Legacy Project, a class-led initiative that supports a local nonprofit with a longterm community impact. Participants also contribute to a monthly nonprofit spotlight, helping address the immediate needs of local organizations.

Dylan Chadwell, a current member of the Class of 2025 and director at The

BUILDING A SAFER FUTURE THROUGH MENTORSHIPS

By State Attorney Suzy Lopez

Regent, called the program a transformative experience.

“For me, Leadership Brandon provided the insight, experiences and tools I needed to refine my strengths and better serve my community. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to connect with so many inspiring colleagues and leaders in our area. If you’re even considering it, I urge you to take the leap — you absolutely won’t regret it.”

The program curriculum includes training in DiSC behavioral styles and emotional intelligence, helping participants better understand workplace dynamics and communication. It also includes two retreat days, a two-day visit to Tallahassee in February, a fundraiser in March and a graduation in May.

Tuition covers transportation, meals, a branded shirt and name tag, program materials and exclusive access to some of the region’s most influential institutions. Payment plans are available. Applications are due by Friday, August 22. Those interested in making a difference while growing personally and professionally are encouraged to apply.

To learn more or submit an application, visit www.brandonchamber.com.

Are you ready to step up, give back and be part of something bigger? The Class of 2026 is forming now. Staff Report

Dr. Charles Devine of TMS of Central Florida is proud to provide NeuroStar TMS therapy as an alternative treatment for Major Depression and OCD.

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Prosecuting crime is our job at the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office. But preventing it, especially among our youth, is also part of our purpose. If we want to keep kids out of the criminal justice system, we as a community must provide them with tools to succeed. That is why we are expanding youth mentorship programs within our agency to ensure we remain part of the solution.

IB high school program of their choice. Some even left with a renewed interest in becoming an attorney or police officer. The program was so impactful, parents in other grade levels at Webb Middle School have been asking how they can get their children involved with our office in the future.

When I first became the state attorney, I launched a one-day mentorship event in my office in partnership with the Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Tampa Bay. We brought 50 middle school students to learn more about the careers available here after high school and college. It was so successful, we wanted to build something even bigger.

That single event has now grown into a full school year mentorship program through BBBS’ School-to-Work initiative. Dozens of our prosecutors and support staff will now mentor eighth grade students from Webb Middle School once a month. These students, or ‘Littles,’ come to our office to spend quality time with their mentors, or ‘Bigs.’ They start by talking about goals and exploring career paths and end up building strong relationships with our staff, who truly believe in their potential. Last school year, each student in the program was accepted into a competitive magnet or

Studies show that mentored youth have higher self-esteem, perform better academically and are more likely to pursue higher education or vocational training. While our employees gain as much out of the experience as the students do, our community wins in the end. While my office will never back down from holding young people accountable if they commit a crime, we are also dedicated to being a part of the solution. That means showing up for our kids and building trust before problems begin. While this is just one small piece of the puzzle, I encourage everyone in the community to do their part. Become involved in one child’s life and it will pay dividends for us all.

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

State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

Leadership Brandon applications are now open for the 2025-26 year.

MOMENTUM AND MISSION: HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS ARE READY FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

As the new school year begins, Hillsborough County Public Schools is riding a wave of momentum built on the incredible achievements of our students, educators and families in the last school year.

Our schools showed mea surable and impressive prog ress. Our school grades, re cently released by the Florida Department of Education, reflect significant gains in student performance across the district. We are proud that 98 percent of our schools received an A, B or C grade. More students are meeting and exceeding grade-level expectations, and schools across every region of our communi ty improved outcomes for students.

By Superintendent Van Ayres

Congratulations to the following schools in District 4 for their impressive results this past school year:

• Mendenhall Elementary School moved two grades to an A.

• Doby and Walden Lake Elementary Schools and Riverview and Strawberry Crest High Schools are now graded as an A.

• Lennard High School improved to a B.

• Knights, Sessums, Summerfield, Symmes and Trapnell elementary schools all improved to a B.

Our high schools posted especially strong results. Hillsborough students outpaced state averages on Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) exam pass rates — giving more students than ever the opportunity to earn college credit and accelerate their academic futures.

Of the 19,451 students who took AP exams, 70 percent earned a score of 3 or higher, marking the highest AP pass rate in district history. These success rates translate into an estimated $14 million in potential college tuition savings for HCPS families across 29 school sites in 2025. Additionally, over 300 students at our five IB campuses earned International Baccalaureate diplomas, leading to an estimated $9 million in potential tuition savings, further underscoring the district’s commitment to academic rigor and college readiness.

These achievements are the result of focused instruction, dedicated staff and a belief in what our students are capable of

And we are not slowing down.

We have our brand-new Aquilla J. Morgan High School in Wimauma that will open this August to nearly 1,500 students, with plans to build both an elementary school and a middle school in the future.

In the year ahead, we will continue investing in literacy, early learning and workforce-ready education.

We’re expanding career and technical programs and elevating our partnerships with local industry and higher education. And we’ll continue to invite families and communities to the table — because our success as a district is built on collaboration and their support. Public education is the heart of every thriving community. Hillsborough County students deserve our best.

HELP SHAPE HILLSBOROUGH’S FUTURE ROADS — COUNTY SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT

Hillsborough County is growing quickly, with its population expected to reach 2.5 million by 2070. To prepare, county officials are updating the Corridor Preservation Plan (CPP), a longrange guide for where future roads may go and how wide they’ll need to be.

The CPP focuses on unincorporated areas, where much of the county’s new development is expected. While minor updates were made in recent years, the last major revision happened more than 15 years ago. With shifting land use patterns and travel habits, planners said it’s time for a fresh look.

The plan plays a critical role in shaping Hillsborough’s future. By identifying where roads will be needed and preserving space for them now, the county can reduce future costs and traffic problems as well as help residents get where they need to go safely and efficiently.

“We’re just trying to capture anything we can, … public opinion on the state of roadways, and the needs that we’re seeing from growth and what they would like the future to look like,” said Chris Fellerhoff, executive planner for the county.

A newly released map outlines potential future road corridors and how many lanes might be needed by 2050. But the plan isn’t final, and public feedback is a key part of the process.

“We have left it very open-ended. If people have an interest in a specific

By Brian Bokor

roadway, either the present conditions there or curious to know what it could be in the future, and they have an opinion about what our data is showing, we’d like to hear that,” said Fellerhoff.

In July, the county hosted four public meetings across the region in Ruskin, Valrico and two locations in Tampa to explain the plan and gather feedback from residents. The meetings offered community members a chance to speak with planners, ask questions and share concerns.

“This is the future, what it could look like. How do you feel about that?” Fellerhoff said. “It is very general. We’re not saying, is this one project good or bad?”

Traffic concerns were a common theme.

“A lot of people have shared with us just their general concern and frustration with congestion and traffic,” he said. “It’s useful to capture.”

Chris reiterated the importance of public input.

“People being on record that they want to see something change and improve, that’s an opportunity to say, yeah, this makes sense that this is coming, or I’d like it to be different,” said Fellerhoff.

Online input is welcome through Friday, August 15, at www.publicinput.com/corridorpreservation.

For more information, residents can contact Dalia Odeh at 813-635-1625.

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR Temporary Custody By Extended Family

To: Jesse J. Brackin Jr.

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for Temporary Custody has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Mary E. Taylor, whose address is 608 Cedar Grove Dr. Brandon, FL 33511 on or before 8-27-25 and file the original with the clerk of this Court at Clerk of the Circuit Court, Hillsborough County 800 E. Twiggs. St. Tampa, FL 33602 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

FLORIDA STATE PARKS RENEW THE ‘2025 CAPTURE … THE REAL FLORIDA PHOTO CONTEST’

The Florida State Parks have launched its ‘2025 Capture … the Real Florida Photo Contest.’

The annual competition encourages those who love Florida’s state parks to capture their beauty through photography, and prizes are a great incentive.

By Michaela Galligan

Florida has 195 official state parks, from Pensacola to Key West, giving photographers countless options of beautiful scenery to capture. The contest began as a way to engage the public and celebrate the beauty of our parks through personal, creative expression.

“The annual contest invites visitors to showcase what makes Florida’s state parks special,” said Nikki Clifton, deputy press secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, “from natural landscapes and wildlife to recreational opportunities and cultural resources.”

Contestants must submit photos in accordance with the competition’s guidelines by Monday, September 1. After that, judging and semifinalist voting will occur from September through October, with the winners being announced shortly after.

Entries must include an original photo taken in a state park, along with the park name and a short description. Pho-

tos are judged on originality, composition and how well they reflect the spirit of ‘the Real Florida.’

The contest also has categories that allow for many opportunities to win, such as professional or hobbyist, student and mobile devices.

Prizes include a gift card for B&H Photo, Florida State Parks annual passes, paddleboards and hammocks. Categories also include a first-place grand prize package, a runner-up prize package and a people’s choice prize package.

Past winners have captured lots of unique and eye-catching sights across the state parks, from marine wildlife to quiet preserves; there is no limit to what can be photographed.

“By sharing their work, photographers help inspire others to explore and support Florida’s state parks,” said Clifton. “Over time, the contest has fostered a community of nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, many of whom participate year after year.”

For more information on submissions, contest rules, and photo release content, interested photographers can visit https://photocontest.floridastateparks. org/contest7. The submission page, photo gallery and past winners can also be found at that address.

HIGH 5 INC. IN BRANDON HOSTS THE WORLD’S LARGEST SWIMMING LESSON

More than 100 children ages 3 and up gathered at the High 5 Recreation Center in Brandon to take part in the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL), a global initiative aimed at promoting water safety and teaching kids essential swimming skills.

The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is a promotional event designed to raise awareness and bring local and national media attention to the importance of teaching kids to swim, both to prevent drowning and to increase their quality of life.

“By joining our voices together,” said WLSL, “we can make a positive difference in the lives of children and adults and drive home the message that learning to swim is as important to general safety as wearing a seat belt when riding in a car.”

The kids in attendance went through several valuable swimming teaching points, from just learning how to kick their feet properly to swimming out with an adult caretaker, to finally swimming down to the bottom of the pool so they could retrieve pool rings to the surface. Afterward, the kids got the opportunity to swim unassisted if they were able to, before the event ended with a dance

By Gabe Themar

party on the pool deck.

“My favorite part was definitely the dance party,” said Daniel, a 5-year-old swimmer.

To keep the music going, ID Visual Effects and Sound, or IDVES, provided a live DJ for the duration of the event.

The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Department also attended the event, with kids being able to meet two firefighters and get a free trinket at their table. High 5’s own kangaroo mascot also made an appearance, hanging out with the kids and getting his groove on the dance floor.

The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is an annual event happening in local communities every summer. For more information on the WLSL or for details about next year’s swimming lesson, go to www.wlsl.org. For more information about High 5 and other future community events hosted there, those interested can call at 813-689-0908 or email memberservices@high5inc.org. The High 5 Recreation Center is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Interested readers can also book an IDVES DJ at their own event by going to https:// idvesevents.com/ for booking inquiries.

Deb Skinner captured the Myakka River landscape in her grand-prize-winning photo.

LOCAL RESIDENT SHARES HER LOVE FOR FINDING AND RESEARCHING LOCAL HISTORICAL MARKERS

Paige Carbon of FishHawk loves all aspects of local history. She especially loves finding unique historical markers.

“I’ve been doing this for more than two decades,” Carbon said.

“When I travel, or even here in the Tampa Bay area, I will go around and look for historical markers. When I find them, I take a picture of it and upload it to the Historical Marker Database website.”

So, what exactly is a historical marker? It is a plate of metal, ceramic, stone, wood or other material, typically attached to a wall, stone or other vertical surface, and bearing text or an image in relief, or both, to commemorate one or more persons, an event, a former use of the place or some other thing. Historical markers can commemorate people, places and events that played important roles in a state or region’s history. They help educate the public through signage with distinct lettering, background colors and shapes. Historical markers are the equivalent to government signs, to identify places of historic public interest.

There are a finite number of markers out there, and just like stamp or coin collecting, you can specialize and aim to collect all of a particular subject, geographical location, era or whatever other

By Libby Hopkins

category you like.

“Sometimes the marker will still be there, but maybe the building or the structure is no longer there,” Carbon said. “Once you see them and read the information on the marker, you start seeing them everywhere. It’s a great way to find out about local history.”

The Historical Marker Database stores permanent outdoors historical markers and commemorative plaques. It is not for memorials, dedication and donor plaques, survey disk monuments or gravestones. It is not a listing of historical sites either. Markers must be outdoors, must be permanent and must state historical or scientific facts beyond names, dates and titles. If you’re a collector or want to get started, consider uploading your discoveries to this site.

National and global events all happened somewhere, and historical markers mark the place where many occurred. But the richness of history is in its local details, details that can be insignificant on the global stage, such as the home of an individual who made a difference; a natural feature, building or byway; or just something interesting that happened nearby.

If you’d like to learn more about the historical markers, you can visit the Historical Marker Database website at www. hmdb.org.

LEADER IN ME PROGRAM: NAVIGATOR ACADEMY OF LEADERSHIP

By Emma Snider

A core aspect of being an effective leader is personal accountability and growth. Navigator Academy of Leadership in Valrico utilizes the Leader in Me program to build Leaders within the academic community by utilizing Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People both inside and outside the classroom.

As a K-8 charter school, Navigator Academy of Leadership encourages development at all stages of learning. By introducing the ideas of the Leader in Me program into the culture of the school, students are provided with the tools they need to become not only educated scholars, but well-rounded individuals.

“The Leader in Me program is important to me because it empowers students to take ownership of their learning and personal growth. It teaches essential life skills such as leadership, responsibility and working as team, which are crucial for success both in school and beyond,” said Jeremy Calkins, managing principal of Compass ESP. “I believe that fostering these qualities in our students sets them up for a brighter future, equipping them to navigate life’s challenges — which we all face — with confidence.”

The Leader in Me program integrates the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People into the curriculum and culture of the

school. It highlights leadership and responsibility, as well as the importance of accountability for one’s actions and goals.

“The seven habits are not just principles for teaching; they are expectations that we live by. From the classroom to the cafeteria, we empower students to lead themselves, work collaboratively, and make responsible choices that reflect leadership in action every day,” said Maria Owen, principal of Navigator Academy of Leadership Valrico.

“Through our NAL motto, ‘Navigate with purpose, Act with integrity and Lead by example,’ we guide students to live the habits and grow into confident capable leaders in school and in the community. We empower every student to discover their strengths, take initiative and make a positive impact in the world.”

Navigator Academy is more than a school, it’s a leadership community committed to academic excellence, character building and meaningful leadership opportunities.

To find more information regarding Navigator Academy of Leadership, the Leader in Me program or enrollment, visit www.navigatoracademyvalrico. com.

Navigator Academy is located at 1101 East Bloomingdale Ave. Valrico, FL 33596. For more information, or to schedule a tour, call (813) 603-9340

Paige Carbon of FishHawk love finding and researching historical makers. She recently found a historical marker at Stowers Funeral Home.

Out of the crucible of service in elite combat units, two former special forces warriors have become harvesters of history with their wood recovery and repurposing business.

FROM

SPECIAL FORCES TO SALVAGED HISTORY: VETERANS TURN RECLAIMED WOOD INTO LIVING LEGACY

Former Navy Seal Chris Kelley and former Green Beret Christian Knutzen have traded in their service fatigues for workshop attire with their Three Forks Wood Reclamation company.

The local company sources and collects the beams and planks of structures that have connections to historical places and events or possess cultural characteristics for design projects that preserve the material and maintain connections with its heritage. Wood with an interesting legacy is repurposed for a range of design projects, such as bespoke furniture, architectural expression in luxury homes, corporate offices, hospitality businesses and even museums.

Sources include wooden watercraft, aging estates and even wood from a barn near the site of the WWII amphibious D-Day assault by allied forces along France’s Normandy coastline. As the fighting moved to the countryside, buildings such as the barn at Marmion Farm witnessed the historic operation’s carnage that liberated Europe.

Daily operation of the business means traveling to remote locations, such as Transylvania, to source materials like 50-

By Brad Stager

foot white oak beams, known to the locals as Romanian Sissle, that have been holding a structure in place for more than 200 years.

The task of bringing the treasured wood to the United States involves overcoming things like remote mountain transport and shipping container challenges, as well as meeting strict import requirements.

The story behind the company’s name speaks to a purpose that goes beyond entrepreneurship and is an essential part of each Three Forks project.

“In the mid-’90s, just out of high school, my good friend Fritz and I embarked on a 60-day canoe trip from the headwaters of the Missouri River in Montana — a confluence of three rivers at a place called Three Forks — all the way to North Dakota,” Knutzen wrote in an email. “Fritz was killed continuing this type of raw adventuring in the country of Georgia many years later while I was in the Army, and I wish I had been there for him. While I was able to escort his body back from Tbilisi, Three Forks is an homage to Fritz, his spirit of braving the world and dedication to connecting with people wherever he went.”

You can learn more about Three Forks Wood Reclamation by visiting www. threeforkswoodreclamation.com or calling 844-433-6757.

FIRST LABOR DAY LEGACY FAMILY PICNIC TO SUPPORT HISTORIC JULIA MOSELEY

Brandon’s first annual Labor Day Legacy Family Picnic is in the works by the trustees of the Timberley Trust to benefit the Julia Moseley Homestead, built in 1886.

Indoor and outdoor activities include a pulled-pork barbecue dinner and ‘Fresh from Florida’ strawberry shortcakes, provided by the Florida Strawberry Growers Association in Dover.

The event is scheduled to run from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Labor Day, Monday, September 1, at The Barn at Winthrop, located at 11349 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview, between Watson and Providence roads. The Moseley property, located at 1820 W. Brandon Blvd., is on the National Historic Registry and is being managed by the Timberley Trust Board of Trustees, led by President Mark Proctor.

The trustees, including Kay Sullivan, who co-founded the Winthrop neo-traditional community with her husband, John, and Amy Carey Lee, whose family has deep-rooted Brandon ties, are in the process of preserving and securing the Moseley property, including the home and barn, and digitizing and categorizing homestead contents. Under very controlled circumstances, the property has been open to movie production companies, including for the upcoming Lifetime movie Just Breathe.

“Miss Moseley was born on the property and lived there until her death at the ripe-old age of 102, five years ago,” said trustee Betty Jo Tompkins, who serves as the board’s secretary. “Julia realized from

By Linda Chion

early on the absolute uniqueness of the site and resisted opportunities to sell the almost 15acre property for millions of dollars. There’s not one in a million people who would do such a thing.”

Tompkins said what makes the property unique is that while historic buildings for viewing have been moved to Cracker Country at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa and to Pioneer Village at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover, the Timberley Trust buildings remain in their original sites, as constructed by the Moseley family in 1886 and beyond.

“The Moseleys were connected to the Elgin Watch Company, whose founders wanted a place to live in the wintertime to escape the winter cold up north,” Tompkins said. “The company moved a bunch of people down from Chicago to Brandon, Florida, which at the time was total wilderness basically.”

The cost for the Labor Day Legacy Picnic, including lunch, is $15 for adults, $10 for kids up to age 15 and free for children under age 6 with an adult. Proceeds are to benefit the homestead’s preservation and maintenance, including security costs. The event’s Main Legacy Sponsor is Odiorne Insurance Agency and Auto Owners Insurance. Still available are Community Champions and Picnic Partners partnerships, at $1,000 and $500, respectively. The sponsorship cost includes private tours of the Moseley Homestead. For information, call Tompkins at 813477-8332.

Christian Knutzen (left) and Chris Kelley operate the Three Forks Wood Reclamation company, which recovers distinctive wood from around the world for design projects, such as bespoke furniture or architectural enhancement.

SIGNS YOUR AGING PARENT MAY NEED MEMORY CARE SCARIFF SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE HOSTS A CELTIC CELEBRATION FEATURING IRISH DANCERS

As your parents grow older, you may notice changes in their behavior and ability to remember things. It can be difficult to know when it’s time to help them find specialized support. Occasional forgetfulness is common in older adults, but other signs could mean Mom or Dad would benefit from memory care. A memory care community is designed to support people with memory-related conditions, like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Here are signs to watch for:

Staff Report

withdrawn or behaving in ways you don’t recognize? Personality changes can happen when memory problems affect how your parent’s brain processes their emotions and input from their surroundings.

4. My parent has problems with communication.

When a person’s memory begins to fade, it can get harder to find the right words or follow a conversation. If Mom or Dad struggles to express themselves or understand others, this is another sign of concern.

1. My parent struggles with everyday tass.

If Mom or Dad starts to have trouble with things they used to do easily, like cooking, paying bills or getting dressed, it may be time to pay closer attention. These struggles suggest they might be experiencing difficulty making decisions or remembering how to complete tasks with multiple steps.

2. My parent seems confused or disoriented.

Does Mom or Dad no longer recognize familiar places or people? If they get lost on routes they’ve traveled for years or forget where they are, this level of confusion can be a sign memory care might be needed.

3. My parent’s personality has changed. Is Mom or Dad unusually agitated,

5. My parent has unexplained mood swings or repeated behaviors.

Memory conditions often lead to sudden mood changes or repetitive behaviors like asking the same question over and over. If this happens often, it’s worth exploring memory care options.

6. My parent isn’t following basic safety rules.

If Mom or Dad can’t remember to turn off the stove, leaves doors unlocked or frequently misplaces important items, like their medications, these could be signs of memory-related challenges that require specialized care.

Recognizing these signs early can help your parent feel safe and cared for. Memory care offers support and a nurturing environment for those facing memory loss and provides family members with peace of mind.

The Scariff School of Irish Dance in Tampa is a vibrant community of dancers, instructors, and families passionate about the art and history of Irish dance. “Our school is dedicated to both competitive excellence and cultural performance, nurturing dancers of all ages in a supportive, inspiring environment,” said owner Stephen Scariff. “Many of our instructors are championship-level performers, former professional dancers and certified teachers who share a deep love for Irish music, movement, and heritage.”

The Scariff School was founded by Scariff, a former Lord of the Dance lead performer and internationally acclaimed choreographer in 2010. Since its founding, the school has grown into one of the most prominent Irish dance schools in the U.S.A., known for producing top-tier competitors and staging world-class performances. “Our dancers have performed and medaled at various international championships, prestigious venues across the globe, but we’re equally proud of the community and confidence we build in each dancer through our classes and performances,” Scariff said.

Scariff and his team will be hosting A Celtic Celebration on Aug. 23 at Centro Astriano De Tamp at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $30-$40. “A Celtic Celebration began as a dream to bring the power and passion of Irish music and dance to the

By Libby Hopkins

Tampa Bay stage in a unique and unforgettable way,” Scariff said. “This year’s show stars Grammy-nominated violinist Máiréad Nesbitt, a founding member of Celtic Woman, whose electrifying performances have captivated millions. The show is choreographed by me and features an original cast of Scariff School dancers. It’s a one-night-only production that brings together tradition, artistry, and high-energy entertainment.”

Guests will experience an epic evening of Irish music and dance, blending contemporary energy with deep-rooted tradition. “Expect stunning costumes featuring Celtic designs, foot-stomping rhythms, and emotionally moving moments that take the audience on a journey through Celtic culture,” Scariff said. “It’s not just a performance, it’s an experience.”

Scariff hopes A Celtic Celebration will be inspiring for its guests. “We hope A Celtic Celebration leaves people inspired and uplifted,” Scariff said. “Our goal is to create an evening that transports the audience, whether they’re lifelong fans of Irish culture or discovering it for the first time. We also hope to shine a light on the incredible talent we have right here in our dance community and continue to grow this artform in Tampa Bay.”

For tickes and info, https://www.scariffschool.com. The school is located at 8019 N. Himes Ave. in Tampa.

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PAINTING WITH PURPOSE: ST. ANDREW’S MURAL BRINGS COMMUNITY TOGETHER

By Lily Belcher

At the beginning of June, people picked up paint brushes before and after church at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church.

The congregation, friends and family helped paint a four-panel community mural that highlights the church’s ministries.

It was the first community mural Sara Nguyen Harris designed.

“I think the biggest part of it was that it was a community led experience that we all got to pitch in,” she said. “Everybody got to help and leave a mark on the church.”

The mural highlights the church’s food pantry, a program for elderly people with dementia or Alzheimer’s, the children’s ministry and the pumpkin patch the church is known for.

She said she was not nervous about having strangers work on the mural she designed because it was done in stages. The first step was adding large color blocks and then painting over a projected outline.

“I know quite a few people were nervous, but I think they were able to really get into it,” she said. “And I had a couple people that were very involved and invested in the project.”

She has been a part of St. Andrew’s for about two years, and the pastor, Jayne

Rideout, heard she was an artist. Pastor Rideout reached out to Nguyen to design a painting that would decorate the side of the church.

The project was supposed to start on May 31, but Florida’s usual summer storms pushed the launch back to the next morning.

But Nguyen said it worked out because people got to spend time with their church community.

She also said it was an opportunity for the congregation to invite others to church.

“I think that was the biggest and most rewarding part about it was that it was such a community experience,” she said. “A lot of people got to meet each other and talk, or have known each other but never really talked or gotten to work together.”

And she added that the process of designing the mural was meditative, and she appreciated the opportunity to share her love for painting with other people.

To see more of Nguyen’s work, visit her Instagram @nguyenindoubtart.

LIZ BREWER BECOMES SECOND WOMAN PRESIDENT IN BRANDON ROTARY CLUB’S 64-YEAR HISTORY

‘Service Above Self’ is something that Liz Brewer takes very seriously. She is the CEO of the Angel Foundation FL, has been a member of the Brandon Rotary Club since 2018 and has served as the club administrator for the past three years. She had also been the club’s president-elect for the past year before becoming its president on June 26.

“Our Rotary club was formed in 1961 and only one other time has there been a woman president,” Brewer said. “I will be the second woman president in the club’s long history. I’m honored that I have been chosen. The previous six past presidents make the recommendation for the new president. To be nominated for this position means a lot to me.”

Rotary is where neighbors, friends and problem-solvers share ideas, join leaders and take action to create lasting change.

Locally, Brandon Rotary is part of Rotary District 6890. Globally, the club is part of a network of 1.2 million members and more than 35,000 clubs around the world.

“We take action locally and globally,” Brewer said. “Each day, our members pour their passion, integrity and intelligence into completing projects that have a lasting impact.”

Rotary clubs produce 16 million volunteer hours each year.

No challenge is too big for the club. For more than 110 years, rotaries have bridged cultures and connected continents to cham-

By Libby Hopkins

pion peace, fight illiteracy and poverty, promote clean water and sanitation, and fight disease.

“Since we began our polio eradication efforts in 1987, Rotary clubs like ours around the world have caused 2.5 billion children to be immunized against polio,” Brewer said. “We also work very hard for our local charities as well.”

Brewer doesn’t want to make any changes to the club because it runs very smoothly.

“I want to continue to inspire our club members to keep doing the amazing work they have been doing all these years,” Brewer said. “I do want to get more engagement within the club and educate them on better ways to serve as Rotarians.”

If you ask Brewer what her favorite part of being a Rotary club member is, she will tell you it’s her fellow club members.

“For me, it’s the fact I get to see these great people who truly have a servant’s heart every week,” Brewer said. “Once a week, we get together and have lunch, in addition to hearing inspiring speakers. I walk out of our meeting each week feeling inspired … to keep doing good in our community.”

If you would like to learn more about the Brandon Rotary Club, you can visit its website page at www.brandonrotary.org. The club meets every Tuesday at 12 Noon at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon.

Liz Brewer became the president of the Brandon Rotary Club on June 26.

The community helped paint the mural highlighting different St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church services.

PHOENIX HOUSE FLORIDA: CELEBRATING 27 YEARS OF TRANSFORMING LIVES

For more than 27 years, Phoenix House Florida has been a pillar of support and hope in the Tampa Bay area, delivering high-quality, accessible substance use treatment for adults and teens. As a trusted nonprofit, its legacy is grounded in compassion, professionalism and respect — qualities that continue to guide its mission across the state of Florida.

“Phoenix House Florida began in the early 1990s when two fathers, Fred Fisher and Whit Palmer, were desperately seeking help for their sons battling substance use,” shared Stephanie Krager, law enforcement liaison for Phoenix House Florida. “Their search led them to the Daytop rehabilitation program in New York. Inspired by what they found, they brought the program to Citra, Florida, in 1994. Four years later, Daytop Florida merged with the Phoenix House Foundation, creating what we now know as Phoenix House Florida.”

Since then, the organization has grown into a statewide leader in addiction treatment that is committed to helping individuals rediscover hope and rebuild their lives. It offers a wide array of services, including adult residential treatment in gender-specific units, office-based detoxification for prescription and opioid drug use, outpatient programs and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and co-occurring disorder treatment to support individuals facing both substance use and mental health challenges. All services are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Re-

By Libby Hopkins

habilitation Facilities (CARF), underscoring the organization’s commitment to nationally recognized standards of excellence.

“As a master deputy, I often partnered with Phoenix House Florida to help people access life-saving treatment — many of whom couldn’t afford it,” said Krager. “I saw firsthand the impact of their work and the power of recovery. After retiring in 2024, I joined the Phoenix House team to continue advocating for second chances and stronger community partnerships.”

Looking ahead, Phoenix House Florida is expanding its services, with two new residential programs launching soon in Hillsborough County. These will provide 105 additional treatment beds, focusing on veteran women, mothers with children in foster care and individuals in need of structured residential care.

To honor its legacy and support future growth, Phoenix House Florida will host its annual Rise Gala on Friday, September 12, from 6-9 p.m. at the Westshore Grand Hotel. Tickets are $250 per individual and $500 per couple.

“The Rise Gala is a powerful evening of inspiration and impact,” said Krager.

Visit https://phoenixfl.org or call 813881-1000. Phoenix House Florida operates two outpatient treatment centers: the Brandon Outpatient Center, located at 510 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. 301, in Brandon, and the Tampa Outpatient Center, located at 2103 N. Rome Ave. in Tampa.

Phoenix House Florida is a local nonprofit organization that has been serving the Tampa Bay area for 25 years.

LAWYER AND CIVIC LEADER DAWN MYERS RUNNING FOR JUDGE

With 21 years of experience, plus her time as honorary mayor of East Hillsborough County, Dawn Myers is stepping into a new chapter: she’s running for judge in the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court. With deep roots in the community and a wide range of legal experience, Myers is ready to bring a fair and thoughtful perspective to the bench.

By Emma Snider

gations are justly handled. With over 120 jury trials under her belt, she’s confident that her background has prepared her to make thoughtful and informed decisions from the

bench as well as mold her into a great candidate for judge.

MAGIC MEETS REALITY AT DOWNTOWN ZEPHYRHILLS’ MAD DRAGON STUDIO

No need to visit a school of witchcraft and wizardry to earn house points. Simply drop by a wizarding shop in downtown Zephyrhills to buy handmade magical trinkets and add to your house cup.

“I have a core belief in fairness,” said Myers. “I think the involvement I’ve had has given me a good perspective on the diverse needs of the community.”

As a native Hillsborough County resident, Myers has been heavily involved in the community and has held positions in many organizations. Some of these positions include being a board member of Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay, a member and past board member of the Riverview Chamber of Commerce, a solo/small firm section co-chair of the Hillsborough County Bar Association as well as many more.

Throughout her legal career, Myers has taken pride in her ability to manage family mediation. She believes that her experience as a judge would help improve her skills in finding fair resolutions in tough family cases. Myers is also motivated by her intention to ensure that all liti-

To give some background, each circuit court is comprised of one or more counties and Florida’s Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court covers all of Hillsborough County. Judges are elected for six-year terms. After six years, if they face an opponent, a nonpartisan election will take place to decide the winner. Since judicial elections are nonpartisan, voters choose candidates without considering political parties, which helps keep things focused on experience and qualifications rather than political party.

Myers invites everyone to the campaign kick-off event on Thursday, October 9 at 5:30 p.m. at the Law Office of Swope Rodante, PA located at 1234 E. 5th Ave. in Tampa.

The general election for judicial candidates is held in August 2026.

To learn more about Myers, including her experience, community involvement, education and how to support her campaign, visit her website at https://myers4judge.com/.

LESSONS SUMMER SWIM

Owned by Sarah Hamilton, Mad Dragon Studio sells one-of-a-kind items, such as color-changing potions, personalized wands, friendly familiars and more. You can also purchase a nonalcoholic butter beer drink while you explore the cupboard under the stairs.

The store, while not affiliated with Warner Bros., also sells official Harry Potter merchandise.

Hamilton’s art is inspired by the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jim Henson’s works. She loves fantasy, dragons and good underdog stories, which easily makes Harry Potter one of her favorite franchises.

“I always say it’s Cinderella; … instead of a fairy godmother, it turns out he’s a wizard,” Hamilton said.

A screeching mandrake still in its pot. Warning: handle with caution.

While Hamilton loves the stories, she makes it a point to try to separate the fantasy of wizards and witches from J.K. Rowling’s personal views.

“So many people in the LGBTQ community have resonated with it because it’s an

By Mylena C. Ferman

underdog story,” Hamilton said, “I always like to say, if you hate her, please come to my shop because you can buy things that I’ve made that reflect the wizarding world, but she has not got a finger in.”

Each member of her family, from her parents to her children, helped turn Mad Dragon Studio into the fantastical store it is now. Her father physically built aspects of the store, such as the bookcase and window shelf.

“It would not look the way it looks if he had not helped me put it together,” she said.

While her father has since passed, Hamilton continues to honor him through her art. She recently learned how to make the mandrakes scream when removed from their pots, a task she would have otherwise asked her father to figure out.

To purchase messenger owls, dragon-eye goblets or colorful dragons, visit Mad Dragon Studio in person or online. Located on 8th St. in Zephyrhills, Mad Dragon Studio is open twice a month. For specific dates and more information, please look on its website at www.maddragonstudio.com or the Mad Dragon Studio Facebook page.

Attorney Dawn Myers (center) has announced her candidacy for judge for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court.

Place your points in your house cup in front of the fireplace when you visit Mad Dragon Studio.

COUNTY TEAMS UP WITH GOODWILL TO KEEP ITEMS OUT OF LANDFILL

The Hillsborough County Solid Waste management has partnered with Goodwill industries- Suncoast to bring residential customers a convenient way to donate their unused items. Through their Donation & Waste Diversion program, donations can be dropped off at three local Goodwill drop-off bins.

“The goal is to divert reusable quality goods from our landfill and keep it in people’s homes” said Daniel Gallagher, manager of the Donation & Waste Diversion program. “I’m so grateful because without it, all these items that are being rescued would end up in the landfill”.

By Emma Snider

Hillsborough County property tax bill is required. On the Hillsborough County Donation & Waste Diversion website, there is a link to verify if an individual is classified as a residential customer, as well as an official list of required materials.

Since its launch in September 2022, the Donation & Waste Diversion program has had over 6,600 donors and has rescued more than 230,000 items. All donated items have equated to about 280,000 pounds of goods.

The Goodwill drop-off bins are in Tampa, Seffner and Gibsonton waste facilities to encourage the donation of items in good condition instead of throwing them away into landfills. All locations are open Monday through Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., unless otherwise stated. The convenience of the Goodwill drop-off bins and the waste facilities have made them easy one-stop shops for all Hillsborough County residential customers.

All Hillsborough County residential customers who get curbside waste collection for the county and pay the annual solid waste assessment on their property tax bill are eligible to donate to the Goodwill bins. To donate most items, a state-issued photo ID with a Hillsborough County residential address and a copy of your annual

While the Goodwill drop-off bins are intended for residential customers, all Hillsborough County residents are encouraged to drop off their recyclable items. All services available to residential customers and Hillsborough County residents can be found on the Hillsborough County website.

The Donation & Waste Diversion program aims to prevent reusable items from being thrown into landfills and encourage a positive social impact on the community.

To find more information regarding the Donation & Waste Diversion program, updated Goodwill drop-off bin hours, required documents, its list of accepted items or verifying residential customer status, visit https://hcfl.gov/residents/property-owners-and-renters/trash-and-recycling/donation-and-waste-diversion-program, call \Solid Waste Services at 813-272-5680 or email recycling@hcfl.gov.

The South County Solid Waste Facility Goodwill drop-off bin in Gibsonton

NAVY ADMIRAL-TURNED-AUTHOR WRITES GRIPPING THRILLERS

For retired Navy Admiral Ken Carodine, a lifelong calling to serve began unexpectedly during a childhood movie night. At 10 years old, Carodine had dreams of becoming a police officer—until one Sunday evening, his father changed the channel to a WWII Navy film, In Harm’s Way. That moment shifted his ambition and charted a course that would lead to nearly 36 years in the U.S. Navy.

“The Navy was my calling,” Carodine, now retired and living in Valrico, said. “While I first learned the concepts of honor, courage and commitment in my parents’ home, the United States literally made those values a way of life.”

Carodine’s Navy career included student days at the U.S. Naval Academy and key leadership roles, including during Operation Desert Storm. One memorable moment came when he unexpectedly took command during a combat situation in the Northern Arabian Gulf.

“At the time, I was a very young lieutenant just keeping the seat warm for a senior captain,” he recalled. “The admiral walked in, wide-eyed to see me in the chair—but I pressed ahead with the task at hand.”

Now an IT executive, Carodine has

turned to writing to reflect on his experiences. His fictional series follows Ben McGuire, an African American Navy reservist who becomes an “accidental hero.” The character first appeared in Nuclear Dragon (originally published as ALL the Tea in 1994) and returns in General Quarters, the recently released sequel.

“What started as a dream of telling a story about the adventures of a Navy reservist has morphed into a trilogy,” Carodine said.

He wrote the outline for General Quarters between 1994 and 2012, but didn’t complete the first draft until his second year as a Navy admiral.

General Quarters explores modern geopolitical tensions in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, blending real-world dynamics with fictional intrigue. Carodine’s stories also highlight the Navy’s core values and the innovative, independent spirit of its officers.

“I am at my core a Navy officer,” he said. “My single greatest honor has been to serve as an officer of the line in the United States Navy.”

Carodine’s books and blog can be found at kencarodinebooks.com, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. His next title, Flag Country, is set for release in 2026.

SWIM LIFE IN LITHIA OFFERS INFANT SWIM SURVIVAL SKILLS AND SWIM LESSONS

Every day in the US, there are, at minimum, 10 fatal drownings. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages 1-4. For every child who drowns, there are another four or five who are hospitalized and may suffer lifelong disabilities. Florida loses more children under the age of 5 to drowning than any other state. According to the Safe Children Coalition, drownings in Florida occur year-round, with the highest number of drownings occurring in the spring and summer in residential swimming pools.

The statistics are harsh, but not as harsh as the reality of the loss.

Lithia resident Natalee Hines empowers children and their families to safely enjoy water.

Hines owns Swim Life in Lithia. She teaches survival-oriented skills, such as floating and treading water, and skill-building swim lessons.

The Swim Life program offers individualized, survival-oriented swim lessons. Lessons are designed to build confidence and strengthen one’s relationship with water.

Hines grew up in Florida. Her son, James, started Swim Life lessons when her military family was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. He was 8 months old when he

By Jane Owen

learned how to float, and by 20 months old he was snorkeling. Hines realized how tremendous the lessons were. Soon after, her family moved to Virginia. Hines was pregnant with her daughter, Chloe, and she was devastated to find there were no ISR (infant swimming resource) lessons in their area. What happened next is a testament to passion.

Hines is a certified Swim Life aquatic education specialist and is also certified for first aid and CPR.

“Swim Life is about getting an understanding of how your body and water interact with each other. I teach how water supports our bodies,” Hines said.

Hines has taught infants as young as 8 months.

“As soon as they can crawl, they can learn to swim. They need to be crawling to have hand-leg coordination, to be able to manipulate themselves into a float,” Hines said.

Hines provides lessons all year for all ages and abilities. Her one-on-one lessons teach water survival techniques and skill development.

To learn more about Swim Life and Hines’ lessons, visit www.myswimlife. com/natalee-hines or call 407-878-4352.

THE MISSION CONTINUES

REPORTED FOR DUTY IN TAMPA FOR EPIC ANNUAL MASS

DEPLOYMENT: OPERATION TAMPA BAY BLITZ Staff Report

The Mission Continues (TMC), a veteran service and volunteer organization that deploys veterans across the U.S. to help under-resourced communities, deployed hundreds of veterans to Tampa for its ninth annual Mass Deployment. From June 20-24, veterans and volunteers worked on high-impact projects to improve communities across the Greater Tampa area.

Each summer, The Mission Continues organizes massive community projects in one United States city.

Veterans and volunteer teams are dispatched to the city to undertake projects aimed at enhancing the region, such as constructing community gardens, renovating schools, painting women’s shelters, improving homeless shelters and executing various other essential initiatives. This year, projects took place at the Volunteers of America Florida – James Cole Village (VOAF), The Sustainable Living Project, Sunrise Children’s Services, Tampa Parks and Recreation’s MLK, Jr. Recreation Complex with West Tampa Grows Healthy Garden, Sweetwater Organic Community Farm and Town and Country Elementary School.

“We’re thrilled to bring Mass Deployment to Tampa — a city with a proud military history, a strong sense of community and

a spirit of resilience,” said Annie Hudson, chief programs officer of The Mission Continues. “Mass Deployment leaves a lasting impact on communities. It strengthens regions and builds meaningful connections between veterans and volunteers.”

Tampa has deep ties to the military and veteran communities; according to the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, more than 120,000 veterans live in the Tampa Bay region, and there are more than 12,000 active-duty personnel at MacDill Air Force Base.

For Army veteran and TMC Tampa platoon leader Tara Tilson, Mass Deployment is personal: “As a veteran, I am always looking for ways to find purpose and give back, and that’s what led me to The Mission Continues. Now I get to join my fellow veterans and community members to serve with a common goal, and it’s an honor to have Mass Deployment in our city.”

National giants and longtime partners joined TMC in Tampa with Platinum Sponsors CarMax and ToolBank and the Official Beverage Sponsor, the Coca-Cola Company, supporting this national event with surrounding communities.

To learn more about the Mass Deployment in Tampa and get a full recap of the five-day event, visit www.missioncontinues. org/operation-tampa-bay-blitz.

SWEAT, SMILE, REPEATLITHIA’S ANYTIME FITNESS BUILDS LASTING CONNECTIONS

Nestled in the heart of FishHawk Ranch, Anytime Fitness Lithia offers more than just a place to work out — it’s a hub for health, connection and transformation. Located at 16144 Churchview Drive, Suite 201, the locally owned gym provides 24/7 access to state-of-the-art equipment, personalized coaching and a supportive environment for members of all fitness levels.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Owners Ronald and Monica Rigaud, both U.S. Army veterans, bring a mission-driven approach to wellness. Their commitment to service extends beyond the military, as they now help community members achieve healthier lifestyles. Ron, a certified personal trainer, and Monica, a longtime fitness enthusiast, emphasize inclusivity and empowerment through fitness.

Owners since 2016. both Ron and Monica know that Anytime Fitness Lithia isn’t just a gym — it’s a catalyst for personal growth. The Rigaud’s vision extends to fostering mental wellness, encouraging goal setting and celebrating member milestones. With a dynamic team and a deep-rooted sense of purpose, the gym continues to shape lives — one workout, one smile and one success story at a time.

“We genuinely care about helping people achieve their goals,” said Ron. “We

want people to know that we’re here to help them. No one will ever feel judged.”

The 5,000 sq. ft. facility features a wide range of cardio and strength equipment, private restrooms and showers. The more than

800 local members also benefit from fitness consultations, coaching and small group training as well as access to Apple Fitness+ workouts. The coaching staff brings decades of experience and a passion for helping clients be their best self.

Anytime Fitness Lithia is part of a global network of more than 5,000 gyms, allowing members to stay active wherever they travel.

“It is the largest gym franchise globally, members have access to all Anytime Fitness anywhere in the world,” said Ron. “Members have 24/7 access. We provide a safe, clean, friendly and supportive atmosphere.”

With great ratings and glowing reviews from members, the gym has become a trusted resource in the Lithia community. Its welcoming atmosphere and membership plans make it accessible to a wide range of individuals. For more information or to schedule a tour, visit www.anytimefitness.com/ locations/lithia-florida-4090 or call 813-438-8474.

Owners Ronald and Monica Rigaud bring heart and hustle to Anytime Fitness Lithia.

The Mission Continues completed service projects in the Tampa Bay Area in June.

LOCAL TEEN RECOGNIZED FOR HER DISCOVERY OF NATURAL SOLUTION TO CITRUS DISEASE UPCOMING PLANTS & PETS EVENT: KERBY’S NURSERY

On June 6, Tanishka Balaji Algave, a student at Strawberry Crest High School, was honored for her ingenuity and discovery of a natural way to manage citrus greening disease at the 10th annual RTX Convention U.S. Nationals. She, and 70 other K-12 students, including two others from the Greater Tampa Bay Area, were celebrated for their practical inventions addressing real-world issues, including education, accessibility, safety, energy and health.

Algave, a Sophomore at Strawberry Crest and member of its IB program, earned second place in the whole country in the 10th grade category and won the Agriculture & Food Award for Novel Approach for Citrus Greening Disease Management.

“The citrus greening disease is the most prominent threat to all citrus cultivars worldwide caused by a phloem-limited and vector-transmitted bacterial pathogen.” Algave explained, “To address this major challenge in the Florida and global citrus industry, this project aimed to develop a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for effectively managing disease.”

Algave, who grew up on a citrus farm, competed against her peers at the local and regional level before advancing to the U.S.

By Gabe Themar

national competition.

To participate, students must send in a video presentation of their invention, a prototype, a logbook documenting the process and journey taken during the inventing process and a poster board highlighting key points of the invention process. Algave’s invention was then judged against all local entries, the best entries from the greater region, and finally honored as one of the best inventions nationwide.

This isn’t Algave’s first time being recognized for her work. In June 2024, Algave earned the $10,000 H. Robert Horvitz Prize for Fundamental Research for her investigation into a natural alternative way to treat citrus greening disease. At just 15 years old, Algave discovered that by injecting an extract of the curry leaf tree into the trunks of infected citrus trees, the disease could be effectively managed.

RTX, headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and host of the invention convention, is the world’s largest aerospace and defense company that pushes the limits of known science and redefines how to connect and protect the world by advancing aviation, building smarter defense systems and creating innovations to take people deeper into space.

Since 1980, Kerby’s Nursery has been a local staple known for the wide range of plants and products they offer. What started as a project in Ruth and Mabry Kerby’s backyard has become an incredible family-run pillar in the community.

On top of being a great place to purchase or learn about all things green, Kerby’s Nursery hosts events throughout the year to bring people together for fun activities and help share the wide world of plants. Its upcoming Plants & Pets event in August is no exception.

Plants & Pets is a free event held by Kerby’s Nursery where guests are encouraged to bring their pets in for a fun day of activities. The event includes festivities for both pet parents and their pets, such as its pet parade. During the parade, prizes for best costume, most talented and best in show will be awarded to a few lucky participants.

A photo booth for pets and a pet obstacle course are provided, and the event will showcase a variety of booths related to pet activities and services. Professional Pets Florida’s treat ball pit, DJ’s Home-

By Emma Snider

made Dog Treats with all-natural dog treats, AnimalLuvr’s Dream Rescue with adoptable pets and many more will be in attendance for all Pet Parents and babies! Along with many fun activities, Kerby’s Nursery also offers useful information about pet friendly plants as well as interactive activities for kids.

“The great thing about a plant nursery is that people from all walks of life come together here to support their gardening hobbies and get in touch with nature. We are honored to be a place where the community can connect around shared interests and a love for beauty,” said Tara Dunn, special projects director of Kerby’s Nursery. “Plants & Pets is a fun, family-friendly, informative event that celebrates two of our favorite things: plants and pets. We invite the community to come out with their pet babies and enjoy the morning in the garden with us.”

To find more information regarding Plants & Pets, registering for the pet parade, upcoming events or Kerby’s Nursery, visit the website located at www.kerbysnursery.com/upcoming-events/.

Algave earned second place at the RTX national convention and also won both the Agriculture & Food Award and the H. Robert Horvitz Prize for Fundamental Research for her work.

The Bokor family in front of their farmhouse.

HILLSBOROUGH COMMUNITY COLLEGE BECOMING HILLSBOROUGH COLLEGE

Hillsborough Community College is pleased to announce its transition to Hillsborough College, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to providing expanded educational opportunities for students and the community. The renaming and brand refresh reflects the evolution of Hillsborough College, allowing it to offer a broader range of academic programs while continuing to serve as a premier destination for workforce training and higher education.

“As we embark on a new era at Hillsborough College, a refreshed brand will serve as a catalyst for innovation while seamlessly aligning with the Florida College System,” said Gregory Celestan, chairman of the Hillsborough College Board of Trustees. “Community will stay at the heart of what we do, as we continue to collaborate with our valued partners to enhance the economic vitality of the region.”

The transition to the Hillsborough College name aligns with the college’s mission of transforming lives by providing open access to an exceptional teaching and learning environment that inspires students to contribute to the local community and global society. In addition to offering more than 200 academic options, including a Bachelor of Science in nursing, associate in art and associate in science degrees, college credit certificates, postsecondary adult vocational certificates, advanced technical diplomas and certificates as well as continuing education and lifelong learning courses.

Staff Report

“Grounded in our rich and impactful history of nearly six decades of serving our beloved community, we now look ahead to new heights,” said Dr. Kenneth Atwater, Hillsborough College president. “As the region has grown, the college has transformed to meet the needs of employers by training a highly skilled workforce, leading to new programs and enhancing current programs. Our brand transformation reflects the college’s current degrees and certificates as we continue to pave the way for innovative academic offerings, all while remaining aligned with the mission and values of the Florida College System.”

The rebranding will include a refreshed visual identity, updated signage across campuses and new digital assets. Current students will experience a seamless transition, with expanded academic and support services to help them achieve their educational goals.

Hillsborough College serves more than 46,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For more information, visit www.hccfl.edu.

Hillsborough College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Hillsborough College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Visit www.hccfl.edu/accreditation for more information

FREEDOM TO WALK: NONPROFIT HELPS PEOPLE WITH FOOT DROP REGAIN MOBILITY & INDEPENDENCE

Daisy Vega founded the Freedom to Walk Foundation, a national nonprofit organization, in January of 2013. For the past 44 years, she has been experiencing multiple sclerosis. Additionally, she experienced foot drop in 2012. After two and a half years of wearing an electrical stimulation device for foot drop, she walked out of her device and no longer needed it to walk.

By Libby Hopkins

“Foot Drop is a weakness or paralysis of the muscles involved in lifting the front part of the foot necessary to walk,” Vega said. “It causes a person to drag the foot and toes or engage in a high-stepping walk called steppage gait. The Bioness L300 Go device, when worn on the calf, sends electric impulses to the affected foot causing the foot and leg to lift and follow through with a natural, unimpaired gait.”

Most insurance companies deny coverage for this device. With an out-of-pocket cost of up to $5,500, the cost is prohibitive for many who see the Bioness L300 Go device as an invaluable opportunity to improve their quality of life.

“Our mission is to assist patients and their families by providing financial assistance for the purchase of WalkAide or Bioness devices for children and adults experiencing foot drop,” Vega said. “We aim to help individuals regain their independence and mobility by providing them with the neces-

sary technology to walk again.” The Freedom to Walk Foundation has educated thousands about foot drop and the electrical stimulation devices that can help them Walk. The foundation has assisted hundreds of families in raising funds for their own devices. The foundation has also held 26 in-person events to raise funds for the $5,500 devices.

“Freedom to Walk Foundation is committed to a life of walking for individuals with foot drop, regardless of their disability,” Vega said. ‘Every dollar donated equals a step towards helping someone to place their footing in the world.”

To help raise funds, the foundation is hosting a comedy show with dinner and dancing fundraiser on Saturday, October 4, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Riverview from 6-11 p.m. Tickets are $75.

“It’s going to be a spectacular night at the newly renovated Hilton Garden Inn,” Vega said. “It’s an evening of fine dining, testimonial speaker, three comedians, dancing, silent auction, raffles and a cash bar. Our goal is to host a successful event that brings businesses and the community together for an evening of education, giving, and fun.”

For more info,rmation, visit its website at www.freedomtowalkfoundation.org.

The mission of the Freedom to Walk Foundation is to assist patients by providing financial assistance for the purchase of WalkAide or Bioness devices.

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

The ‘Sandwich Generation’ — those caring for aging parents while raising their own children — face unique challenges that extend far beyond daily caregiving. These challenges often involve complex legal and financial decisions that can catch families off guard. With approximately 47 percent of adults in their 40s and 50s having a parent over 65 while still supporting children, proper legal planning has become essential. Without it, even routine caregiving tasks can turn into bureaucratic nightmares.

Essential Legal Documents Every Caregiver Needs

When caring for aging parents, these key documents form the foundation of effective caregiving:

1. Durable Power of Attorney: This powerful document allows you to designate a family member to handle financial and legal matters on their behalf. With a comprehensive power of attorney, you can access bank accounts, pay bills, apply for benefits and manage investments when needed. Without it? Your family may face the costly, time-consuming process of pursuing guardianship through the courts if you become incapacitated. This process can drain both emotional and financial resources.

2. Advance Healthcare Directive: This document specifies preferences for end-of-life care, providing clear guidance about life support and other

critical health care decisions before a crisis occurs. It removes the burden of guessing from family members during emotional times. It also allows you to designate who can make medical decisions when you cannot communicate your wishes. Finally, it has a HIPPA authorization, which ensures your health care providers can share medical information with designated family members.

3. Revocable Living Trust: Beyond basic powers of attorney, a trust provides comprehensive asset management. It allows for seamless transition of financial management, maintains privacy for family financial matters and, most importantly, avoids the expensive and public probate court process.

Having these documents in place now can prevent countless hours of stress, expense and family conflict later. And our firm is here to help families through these challenges and help find solutions to preserve family assets and dignity. Contact us online at www.ohalllaw.com to schedule your free 15-minute telephone conference to get more information.

Laurie Ohall is a Florida board-certified 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.

COCKTAILS, CONVERSATION AND A CURE: BRANDON EVENT TACKLES DIABETES AND OBESITY

A local nonprofit is shaking things up — literally and figuratively — with an innovative health event aimed at empowering the community to fight diabetes and obesity through knowledge and lifestyle change.

On Sunday, August 24, at 6:30 p.m., the Brandon Caribbean American Cultural Association (BCACA) will host ‘Cocktails & Conversation: Health & Wellness Edition’ at 117 W. Windhorst Rd. in Brandon. The evening features an inspiring talk by Dr. Jawan Ayer, a board-certified physician in internal medicine, oncology and obesity medicine.

Attendees will enjoy cocktails while hearing practical, science-backed advice on preventing and managing diabetes and obesity — two health conditions that disproportionately affect underserved communities. Dr. Ayer will share transformative insights into how small, sustainable lifestyle choices can lead to long-term wellness.

“BCACA is committed to uplifting our

community — one conversation, one choice, one healthier life at a time,” said Sharon Bentley, one of the event organizers. With limited seating, guests are encouraged to RSVP early. The event promises an uplifting atmosphere where learning meets lifestyle, all in support of a greater mission.

Since its founding in 2011, BCACA has been a volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to uplifting the underserved in Brandon and beyond. From supplying school essentials to children in need to supporting homeless families and funding medical research, the group has made community care its cornerstone.

Now, with a newly elected leadership team, BCACA is expanding its reach and impact, using events like this one to engage residents in practical, meaningful change. To RSVP or learn more, contact Bentley at 813-318-1384.

Whether you’re battling chronic health conditions or simply looking to make healthier choices, BCACA’s message is clear: change your life — one healthy decision at a time.

Visit https://bcaca.org/ for more events and information.

Florida Virtual School Offers Driver Education Course That Meets New State Law Requirements

For more than 20 years, Florida Virtual School (FLVS) has been a trusted leader in online driver education, equipping Florida students with the skills they need to drive safely. Now, as a new state law takes effect on Friday, August 1 (previously July 1), requiring that anyone under 18 years old complete a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)-approved driver education course, FLVS is uniquely positioned to help students meet the mandate with its time-tested, flexible program taught by certified teachers. Previously, the law only required anyone under the age of 18 to complete a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course.

al School chief academic officer. “That’s why our fully online course offers the flexibility and accessibility students need to meet this requirement seamlessly.”

To learn more about the FLVS Driver Education course, visit the FLVS website at www.flvs.net.

Law School Professor Honored With Award

Cooley Law School professor Joseline Jean-Louis Hardrick has been selected as the recipient of the Florida Bar’s 2025 Law Faculty/Administration Professionalism Award. The annual award recognizes a member of Florida law school faculty or administration who, through teaching, scholarship and mentorship, instills and exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism in the legal field.

“Professor Hardrick is more than an educator — she’s a champion for equity, inclusion and the professional development of future attorneys,” said Cooley Law School President and Dean James McGrath. “Her impact inside the classroom and throughout the legal community reflects the values this award was designed to celebrate.”

Back-to-school Supplies Drive

school year. Contact bts@valricofishhawk.org for more information on how you can help with sponsorships and donations.

destinations in the world.

Blood Drive

Did you know that 38 percent of the population is eligible to donate blood but fewer than 10 percent actually do? Every day, many Americans depend on blood donations from generous volunteer donors for critical components of their medical care. Creekside Church of Christ, located at 3949 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, is hosting a blood drive in partnership with OneBlood on Wednesday, August 20, from 5:30-9 p.m. It’s easy to rationalize that someone else will fill the need, but more than 41,000 blood donations are needed every day; each and every donation helps ensure that when someone in our community needs blood in an emergency, we will have some to give them.

From cruising the Inside Passage to riding the Alaska Railroad through Denali National Park, it’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect journey. Discover the unique difference between Alaska cruises and land tours, get expert insights on the best time to go and learn about unforgettable excursions, like dog sledding, flightseeing, wildlife viewing and more. Whether you’re a firsttime cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this seminar will help you turn your Alaska dreams into a reality.

Seeds Of Hope Bingo

The Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association is hosting a music bingo fundraiser to benefit Seeds of Hope on Tuesday, August 19, at Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co., located at 3632

Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Cards will go on sale at 6:30 p.m. and cost $20, with bingo starting at 7 p.m. Come early to get a table and bring donations for the food bank. Along with bingo, there will be awesome raffle prizes, a 50/50 drawing and much more.

Alaska Travel Seminar

“We understand that high school students and families are balancing multiple priorities, and adding a Driver Education course to their plans shouldn’t be a challenge,” said Robin Winder, Florida Virtu -

The Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 2025 Back to School Teacher Appreciation Luncheon on Tuesday, August 5, and is looking for donations. You can help the chamber treat some of the area’s newest teachers with items that will help them in the upcoming

Cruise Planners is hosting an Alaskan Travel seminar on Thursday, August 21, from 10 a.m.-12 Noon in the Ripple Room at Kings Point Clubhouse, located at 1900 Clubhouse Dr. in Sun City Center. Whether you’re dreaming of towering glaciers, breaching whales, bald eagles or snowcapped mountain ranges, this seminar is your chance to explore the many ways to experience Alaska — one of the most breathtaking bucket-listed

Free Legacy Planning Seminar

Do you want to build a legacy but struggle to know how? ECHO is hosting a free legacy planning seminar on Tuesday, August 19, starting at 6:30 p.m. at its location, 10509 Riverview Dr. in Riverview. Join a stellar panel of planners and lawyers as they answer all questions related to wills, trusts, donor-advised funds and tax incentives related to charitable giving.

A complimentary dinner and a tour of the amazing work of ECHO are also included. Space is limited; please call 813-6850935, ext. 8010, to reserve your space.

ROTARY E-CLUB OF TAMPA SOUTH (RECTS) RECOGNIZES 14 MEMBERS AS PAUL HARRIS FELLOWS FOR ‘SERVICE ABOVE SELF’

The Rotary E-Club of Tampa South (RECTS), chartered on June 1, 2022, is the youngest club in Rotary District 6890, which includes Hillsborough, Highland, Hardee and Polk counties. Recognizing the challenges of certain professionals to attend a local Rotary meeting, FishHawk resident, retired military professional and past Rotary District Governor Deborah L. Williams decided to start an e-club that meets on Zoom. She and Duane, her husband (also retired military), set up a booth at MacDill Air Force Base’s Tampa Bay AirFest in 2022 to advertise the club designed for active-duty military, military reserve, military spouses and military contractor professionals who wanted to engage in local, national and international service through Rotary. The club has since expanded to civilians, first responders, law enforcement officers, firemen, medical EMTs, RNs, realtors, pastors and others with tight schedules who might not be able to attend a club meeting in person but who would still like to engage in meaningful service.

Staff Report

national Service Chair Irma Cole provided a presentation on The Rotary Foundation, its seven areas of focus and the history of Paul Harris, who founded Rotary in 1905. The Paul Harris Fellow recipients were individually recognized and pinned by incoming District Governor Linda Devine and past District Governor Nick Hall. Now, all 22 members of RECTS are recognized Paul Harris Fellows — a testament to their commitment to service.

On June 6, during the installation of its fourth club President Kevin Wint, 14 current members of the club were recognized as Paul Harris Fellows by The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International in appreciation of their tangible and significant ‘Service Above Self’ toward better understanding and friendly relations within their communities and peoples of the world. Past District Governor Mark Scolnick and District Inter-

On the global stage, RECTS was an international partner club on a global grant with the Rotary Club of Pune Laxmi Road, India. The global grant was awarded by The Rotary Foundation to upgrade the Primary Health Centres and Sub-district Hospital in Bohr-Pune, India. The global grant was completed in December 2024. Last November, RECTS recognized veterans on Veterans Day with breakfast at FishHawk Bagels. It raises funds through various projects to provide college scholarships to graduating high school seniors. More recently, in February, member Deborah Williams traveled to India to administer polio vaccines to children as part of a District International Service Team.

RECTS invites all those interested in joining its efforts to attend one of its Zoom meetings on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, 7-8 p.m.; the Zoom meeting link is https://zoom.us/j/7328811760. For more information, contact Duane Williams at dsigma79@aol.com or 813-541-6202.

VILLAINS TAKE THE STAGE IN DISNEY’S DESCENDANTS: THE MUSICAL

Get ready for a wicked good time this August as The Village Players theater brings Disney’s Descendants:

The Musical to life onstage at the historic James McCabe Theater.

Based on the smash-hit Disney Channel movie, this high-energy musical follows Mal, Evie, Jay and Carlos, the teen kids of classic villains like Maleficent and Cruella de Vil. Banished to the Isle of the Lost with their famously evil parents, they’re suddenly given the chance to leave exile and attend school in the land of the good guys.

With catchy songs, big dance numbers, amazing costumes and a heartwarming message about forging your own path, Descendants is perfect for the whole family.

This production is directed by Domin Pazo, artistic director of The Village Players and a longtime force in local theater. With over 200 plays to his name and a career spanning stage, screen, radio and TV, he brings decades of experience and a little Disney magic to every show.

Performance dates and times:

· Evenings at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, August 8-9, 15-16 and 22-23.

Staff Report

· Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. on August 10 and 17. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.

General admission tickets cost $23, or $20 for seniors, students and military. Buy early — tickets are expected to sell out. Tickets are available now at https://thevillageplayersvalrico.com/.

About The Village Players

The Village Players is a nonprofit, all-volunteer teaching theater performing in the charming James McCabe Theater, located at 506 N. 5th St. in Valrico. It is proud to spotlight local talent, teach every aspect of stagecraft to performers of all ages and make theater affordable and accessible for the whole community.

This cast is packed with returning favorites from last summer’s Grease and some fantastic new faces. It’s the perfect mix of familiar fun and fresh surprises. Whether you’re here for the music, the mischief or just a night out in cool AC, Descendants is the show to see. Come support local talent, have a blast and root for the bad kids (they’re trying really hard). This is the summer show you don’t want to miss.

LILA BASQUIL RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS P.E.O. STAR SCHOLARSHIP

Staff Report

Lila Basquil, a senior at Newsome High School, was selected to receive a $2,500 STAR Scholarship from the P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) Sisterhood. She was recommended by P.E.O. Chapter IW of Valrico.

The P.E.O. STAR Scholarship was established in 2009 to provide scholarships for exceptional women in their final year of high school to attend an accredited postsecondary educational institution in the U.S. or Canada in the next academic year. The competitive STAR Scholarship is for women who exhibit excellence in leadership, academics, extracurricular activities, community service and potential for future success.

Basquil is a member of the student government at his school and the youth leadership team at Grace Community Church, works at Camp Cristina and nannies for a special needs child. She also volunteers at Camp Able every summer. She will attend Florida State University in the fall to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree. Her ultimate goal is to become a speech therapist and work one-on-one with special needs children.

Chapter IW has been a part of the Valrico community since it was organized in 2009.

P.E.O. has been celebrating women

helping women reach for the stars for more than 155 years. Since its inception in 1869, the nonprofit organization has helped more than 125,000 women pursue educational goals by providing approximately $432 million in grants, scholarships, awards and loans. The P.E.O. Sisterhood also owns and supports Cottey College. Through membership, the P.E.O. Sisterhood has brought together more than half a million women in the United States and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education while supporting and motivating them. In addition to educational philanthropies, the P.E.O. Sisterhood provides a framework of support and community for all members. What started with a bond of friendship among seven women in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, is now one of the oldest women’s organizations in North America with close to 5,500 chapters.

To learn more about P.E.O., its powerful educational philanthropies and the stories of women who have benefited from its programs, visit www.peointernational.org.

You can also join us at www.facebook. com/peointernational or on Instagram @PEOInternational.

Don’t miss Disney’s Descendants: The Musical, coming to the James McCabe Theatre in August.

Lila Basquil, a senior at Newsome High School, is the recipient of a P.E.O Sisterhood scholarship.

Staff Report

To mark its 250th anniversary, the United States Postal Service is honoring its historic legacy with the release of a new pane of Forever stamps and a commemorative 32-page prestige booklet.

Titled 250 Years of Delivering, the new stamp pane features 20 illustrated stamps that follow a modern-day mail carrier on her daily route through the seasons in a vibrant town. Designed by acclaimed illustrator Chris Ware and USPS art director Antonio Alcalá, each stamp serves as a frame in a larger story, offering a unique, visual tribute to the essential role of mail in American life.

The prestige booklet, Putting a Stamp on the American Experience, delves into the rich history and range of the U.S. stamp program. It includes two exclusive self-adhesive sheets of a newly designed Forever stamp featuring Benjamin Franklin — the nation’s first postmaster general. A modern reimagining of the 5-cent Franklin stamp originally issued in 1847, the design honors Franklin’s legacy as a pioneer of the American postal system.

The first-day-of-issue event for the stamps and booklet will take place on Wednesday, July 23, at noon at USPS Headquarters, located at 475 L’Enfant Plaza SW in Washington, D.C. The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to register at www.usps. com/usps250years. Updates and news will

be shared under the hashtags #250YearsofDelivering and #USPS250booklet.

Established in 1775, the postal system was so essential to winning American independence and creating a free nation that it is mentioned in the U.S. Constitution.

For 250 years, the U.S. Postal Service has continued to serve the same ideals — connecting individuals, communities and businesses through an ongoing exchange of ideas, information and goods. Although the United States only makes up 4 percent of the world’s population, the U.S. Postal Service handles 44 percent of mail across the entire globe.

The 250 Years of Delivering stamps are a meticulously illustrated pane of 20 interconnected stamps that offers a bird’s-eye view of a bustling town. Each stamp is a frame of sequential art that tells the story of a mail carrier’s daily journey as she walks her route. Laid out in four rows of five stamps, the story progresses through the four seasons, from top-left to bottom-right.

Chris Ware created the stamp artwork and co-designed the pane with Antonio Alcalá, an art director for USPS.

The prestige booklet, designed by USPS art director Ethel Kessler, is available through store.usps.com,. Stamps and other licensed products are also available at local post offices and on Amazon.

The Florida Aquarium is making waves with the debut of its newest costumed character — a bright-pink, wide-eyed axolotl from Mexico City — and the community is invited to help name her.

This charismatic, four-yearold amphibian is the aquarium’s latest ambassador, designed to connect visitors with science, conservation and culture. While she’s already charming guests with her feathery gills, bubbly energy and love of shrimp, she still needs a name — and the public has until Friday, August 1, to vote online.

The final name choices, selected with input from local Hispanic leaders, reflect her Mexican heritage and vibrant personality. The finalists are:

• Xochi (so-chee) — short for Xochimilco, one of two lakes in Mexico City where axolotls are found in the wild. The name comes from the Aztec word ‘xochitl,’ meaning ‘flower’ or ‘princess of flowers.’

• Toci (toe-see) — named after the Aztec goddess of renewal and healing. ‘Toci’ means ‘our grandmother,’ symbolizing wisdom and nurturing strength.

• Izel (ee-sel) — an Aztec word meaning ‘only one’ or ‘unique,’ emphasizing the rarity of axolotls.

Voters are also invited to submit their

critically endangered, with natural populations found only in two lakes in Mexico City.

own name ideas until August 1. The winning name will be announced on Monday, August 4, and the new character will begin greeting guests soon after.

Axolotls are

Known for their remarkable ability to regenerate body parts, they are a subject of growing scientific interest — especially in regenerative medicine.

“We’re thrilled to bring this new character to life as a fun, approachable way to connect families with the fascinating world of axolotls,” said Tony Rokita, senior vice president of community engagement and social responsibility. “She honors the species’ deep roots in Mexican culture while shining a light on the urgent need to protect them.”

She now joins the aquarium’s other mascots — Tango the sea turtle and Rocky the penguin — in inspiring guests to care for marine life. To cast your vote, visit www.flaquarium.org.

The Florida Aquarium welcomes its newest mascot, an axolotl, to join Tango the sea turtle and Rocky the penguin.

Do you know almost half of Hillsborough’s 225,000 students can’t afford lunch, let alone the basics that others bring to school? Can you imagine the daily difficulties that creates in a classroom? Can you spare just a few dollars for pencils, folders, backpacks and other items these kids need? Please help before school resumes Monday, August 11! Learn more at EducationFoundation.com, home of the nonprofit Hillsborough Education Foundation. Thank you!

$24 million in sales in 2024

Hall of Fame, Top 1% among all agents across Tampa Bay

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annmarievaughan. realtor

FOR RENT RIGHT NOW before the new academic year at some of the top schools in Florida! In Channing Park, with pools & playground parks near all the advantages of FishHawk, get 2,320 SF with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a French-doored office or den, formal dining room, extended kitchen with breakfast area, & a living room / great room opening through triple pocketing sliders to a covered patio. Tile, wood & granite are among the quality amenities. Washer, dryer

THIS RENTAL IN BLOOMINGDALE puts your kids at Bloomingdale High, Burns Middle & Alafia Elementary. Get 4 bedrooms with a master suite downstairs, 2.5 bathrooms, & a screened lanai in a privacy-fenced yard. You’ll find stainless-steel appliances in a kitchen with upgraded counters & cabinets. The 2-car garage has built-in shelves for extra storage, & an open design helps the home "live larger" than 1,665 SF. Best of all, it's in a neighborhood that offers so much even beyond the good schools: parks, playgrounds, shops, restaurants, day care, the YMCA, Little League, Bloomingdale Golfers Club, etc. This home rents for a monthly rate of $2,495.

season. Real wood & tile floors, new stainlesssteel appliances, plus recently replaced HVAC, water heater, pool pump & lanai screens add value, too. You ll love the 30-foot-long living room with brick fireplace & twin sets of French doors that open to the lanai. Perhaps best of all, it's on a single-street loop at the front of a NO-FEE neighborhood near count- less conveniences. $425,000

Your Life, YourWay YourWay

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

North Star Consulting Offers Career Consulting For Students

North Star Consulting offers private, one-on-one college and career consulting for students and adults. Founder Christina Sanchez Bonner, M.Ed., who has more than 15 years of experience in this field, created this company to serve the needs of individuals searching for personalized support in college and/or career planning. Services include academic advising, college admissions, funding education, resume writing, cover letters, interview preparation and career consulting. North Star Consulting provides a nonjudgemental approach to assist its clients in finding the ideal path so they can reach their goals successfully.

Follow your true north and reach for the stars. Call North Star Consulting today to schedule a consultation at 813-315-5214. Its office is located at 1721 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Visit its website at www.northstarconsultings.com.

Marlin James Partners With Lennox To Provide A New HVAC To Homeowners In Need

Nominations for Feel The Love 2025 are now open. Marlin James is once again partnering with Lennox to provide a new HVAC system to someone in need. Last year, five local residents/families were awarded new units through this partnership. Nationally, Lennox dealers installed more than 2,700 high-efficiency HVAC systems in 2024. To nominate a deserving homeowner, please visit www.feelthelove.com and put ‘Marlin James Air’ in the box that asks for local

dealers. The deadline for submission is Sunday, August 31. Units will be installed in early October. For additional questions, email carlena@marlinjames.com.

Graze

Craze Charcuterie Boards & Boxes Opens in Brandon

Graze Craze Charcuterie Boards & Boxes, located at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 101, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting with the Central Hillsborough County and Valrico/FishHawk chambers of commerce on May 16. The woman and veteran-owned business specializes in exquisite charcuterie boards and boxes. It serves premium meat and cheese; house-made hummus, dips and jams; along with the freshest fruits and veggies. The mission of Graze Craze is

to bring people together through the art of charcuterie while committing to serving the community, supporting local causes and creating opportunities that enrich lives. To learn more, visit www.grazecraze.com/brandon-fl or call 813-692-9230.

Pink’s Windows Offers Cleaning

Pink’s Windows East Tampa Bay is owned by Maria Hart and was founded on the idea of world-class service at a fair price. It takes pride in its work, no matter the project. Whether it is cleaning your windows, cleaning your gutter, power washing your walkways or giving your home a chemical free soft wash, it will always make a point of treating your property — and your time — with the utmost respect. And Pink’s won’t quit until it gets the job done right. Call 813640-0892 or visit its website at https://pinkswindows.com/east-tampa-bay.

Lucky Lauren Charters

Captain Carl Snodgrass of Lucky Lauren Charters believes that he has the best office ever, and he is inviting you to join him out on the beautiful waters of Tampa Bay. Everything is provided for you to enjoy a fantastic day of fishing out on the water, just bring whatever you would like to eat and drink — a cooler is even provided for you. Any legal-to-keep and goodto-eat fish will be cleaned for you to take home and eat. Visit its website at www. fishingchartersruskin.com for more information and to book your fishing charter.

CMIT Solutions Opens In Brandon

CMIT Solutions is a leading provider of enterprise level IT and cybersecurity services for small and medium-sized businesses, and it proudly announces the opening of CMIT Solutions of Brandon-Lakeland, operated by longtime IT and cybersecurity expert Michael Worlund. CMIT Solutions offers network and endpoint security, cloud service, IT-managed services, security training and more. It helps to transform technology into a strategic advantage, ensuring every IT challenge has a solution that enhances your business operations.

To find out more, call 656-220-2180 or visit its website at https://cmitsolutions. com/brandon-lakeland-fl-1222/.

IT’S A BABY BOOM AT ZOOTAMPA! IMPALAS,

Animal babies are taking center stage this summer at ZooTampa at Lowry Park with the births of several species, including some that are critically endangered.

MYNAH, LORIKEETS & MORE

From small to big, feathery to fuzzy, the zoo’s newest additions include a critically endangered Bali Mynah, a near-threatened bay duiker, a marabou stork, a lorikeet, and most recently, two impala calves. With this influx of babies, the zoo’s expert animal care team has been busy providing world-class care for its newest residents.

“It’s been an exciting summer; we’ve had numerous births and hatches throughout the zoo,” said Chris Massaro, chief zoological officer. “Everywhere you look, there’s something new to discover — tiny hooves, little beaks, curious eyes. These new arrivals are not only adorable; they are also part of important conservation efforts. We hope they inspire our guests to take action to protect and preserve wildlife.”

The hatching of a critically endangered Bali mynah chick in the Australasia Aviary marks the second time a chick has been born at ZooTampa in more than 20 years. With the species classified as critically endangered, this chick represents a major conservation victory and a proud moment for ZooTampa’s team, who have worked diligently toward this milestone.

In the Florida section of the zoo, the team welcomed two new roseate spoonbill chicks

PARA-ATHLETE HAYDEN COMPTON WINS

4A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP IN 800M RACE

By Nick Nahas

this summer, which are thriving and getting stronger each day.

Deep within the African realm of the zoo, the team welcomed a tiny bay duiker calf named Acacia, born on May 21 and weighing less than 3 pounds at birth. Both the mother and calf are doing well. The bay duiker is a small, forest-dwelling antelope that stands about 20 inches tall at the shoulder as an adult.

The baby boom continued in Africa with the hatching of a marabou stork on May 26.

The female chick is the first baby for parents Will and Diana, who will co-parent and share the responsibilities of protecting the nest and feeding their chick.

The zoo also welcomed two male impala calves this summer. The youngest, named Brad, was born on June 7 to mother Linda and father Chad, while the other male impala, named Chad Jr., was born to mother Karen and father Chad on May 22. Currently, the zoo is home to six impalas.

These newest additions to the ZooTampa family join a masked lapwing, a lorikeet and two roseate spoonbills that were born in early spring.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is operated by the Lowry Park Zoological Society, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to excellence in conservation, education and research. Visit www.zootampa. org or follow it on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok and YouTube. Staff Report

Durant High School (DHS) athlete Hayden Compton won the 4A state championship in the 800m and took second place in the 100m, 200m and 400m.

“I’m very proud of my performance. I worked all season to earn a personal record, and I went all season without a PR, and I finally did it at states,” said Compton.

“Hayden has exemplified what it means to be a champion,” said Head Coach Frank Lane. “In only his first year at DHS, he has helped create a culture of hard work, dedication and pride. He has a huge following within our school and even amongst the rival schools. They always cheer and accommodate him during the meets. He has been a huge advocate for wheelchair athletes and promoting the para division in track and field. He’s an awesome kid that makes it all worth it.”

The sophomore, who also competes in the summer with the Hillsborough County Adaptive Sports program under the Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation Department, has been a big advocate for adaptive sports. He also plays adaptive basketball with the program.

“I really wish more kids had the chance to get involved in adaptive sports in Hillsborough County,” said Compton. “There are so many opportunities out there, but most families don’t know they exist. I think it would make a big difference if schools helped connect their adaptive athletes to programs in the community.” He is a great student as well with a 4.0 GPA and is a part of student government and sophomore council at Durant.

Compton hopes to set more personal records, eventually become a Paralympian and earn a college scholarship to play the sport. He will compete at nationals in July in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A lot of preparation goes into being ready to compete in a race. Compton trains five days a week, doing weightlifting and endurance training.

“Hayden’s work ethic is unlike any other athlete I have seen,” said Lane. “He is always the first to practice and focused on his work. He challenges himself with very tough timing on his races. I am very proud of Hayden and extremely excited for his future.”

A tiny bay duiker calf named Acacia was born in May, weighing less than 3 pounds at birth.

Hayden Compton hopes to set more personal records, eventually become a Paralympian and earn a college scholarship to play the sport.

Durant High School athlete Hayden Compton won the 4A state championship in the 800m and took second place in the 100m, 200m and 400m.

PADDLING TOWARD INCLUSION:

Removing the Barriers Initiatives are making waves in developing inclusivity and accessibility across the state of Florida, both figuratively and literally.

The Central Florida-based nonprofit has been working to ensure those with physical disabilities aren’t prevented from enjoying many of the things others can. How was this project started? Surprisingly, with canoes.

By Michaela Galligan

by providing accessible golf carts and other transportation for camps in Lake Aurora. Since then, these materials have been moved across the state, providing access for inclusion anywhere possible, from Central Florida to Tallahassee.

Bill Redmon founded Removing the Barriers after observing a lack of inclusivity in the areas around him for those with physical disabilities. The retired pastor and business director sought to make a difference in these people’s lives and found just the way to do that.

Redmon started Wild Creek Adventures in 2007, a company that encourages team-building exercises in 14-person canoes. The company worked with many corporate organizations and teams to resolve communication and cooperation issues, taking it out of the office and onto the water.

“The canoes are a great way to encourage teamwork,” said Redmon. “There’s no pretending to get along on the water, and communication flows naturally.”

The project stayed active for several years till Redmon set his sights on helping those in need of accessibility.

“I’ve always had an interest in the underdog,” said Redmon. “I’ve seen the lack of accessibility and wanted to support them.”

Redmon and his team began the initiative

With the formerly operational Wild Creek Adventures in mind, Removing the Barriers has also hosted and organized accessible events on the water. Those with physical dis abilities can get into canoes and participate in activities.

Recently, Removing the Barriers spon sored this year’s Ms. Wheelchair Florida, Schuyler Arakawa, in her fundraising goal of getting to the national competition in Mich igan this August. The event was planned to have Arakawa in a canoe with others pad dling on the Alafia River in Brandon. While the paddling of the event was postponed due to rain, the fundraising was still suc cessful, and the paddling will be rescheduled later in July.

Removing the Barriers also has big plans for the future, including Stirring Waters, an accessible and inclusive water park. The park is still in the early stages of develop ment but holds the goal of opening in Cen tral Florida in the coming years.

More information can be found on its web site at https://removingthebarriers.org/.

https://www.anytimefitness.com/schedule-an-appointment-online/?club=4090

A team of people canoeing together on Lake Aurora, with Bill Redmon directing from the back.

LOCAL CHARITY CONCERT FEATURES

VALRICO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHER

On June 16, Valrico Elementary School teacher Sidney O’Sullivan sang and played guitar at Voodoo Brewing Co.’s charity concert for the Honorary Mayor’s Race of East Hillsborough County in partnership with the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce and two different charities: Hope for Her and ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization) of Brandon.

O’Sullivan has been a musician since she was in middle school. Going from Bevis Elementary School to Randall Middle School and then to Newsome High School, O’Sullivan participated in choir and show choir in middle and high school, respectively. After graduating from Newsome in 2014, she enrolled at the University of South Florida (USF), where she raised money by singing with her sorority at the Singing for Shriners charity event at Shriners Hospital.

After graduating from USF in the spring of 2018, O’Sullivan began teaching at Valrico Elementary. She is now going in her eighth year there and is currently teaching third graders. O’Sullivan has also performed in front of her students and the whole school many times, including teaming up with three of her co-workers to sing at Valrico Elementary’s yearly Veterans Day ceremony. Outside of school, she began

By Gabe Themar

performing live at weddings and other events. Then, one of her coworkers got her in contact with Voodoo Brewing Co., and she began performing live at the restaurant in April. O’Sullivan shared that her passion has always been for live music.

“It’s not lost on me how beautiful it is when a community comes together through music,” said O’Sullivan. “It’s so special, I am so grateful for Chris Ciulla for the opportunity and experience.”

Voodoo Brewing Co. is a national brewpub franchise that opened its fourth Florida location under the ownership of Chris Ciulla in December 2024 in Valrico at 3432 S.R. 60. Voodoo Brewing Co. emphasizes community connections and was thrilled to bring on O’Sullivan as a regular performer.

O’Sullivan sings and plays the guitar every second Saturday at Voodoo Brewing Co. from 6:30-10 p.m. She mostly performs cover songs but hopes to release her own album at the end of the summer. Fans interested can learn about her next shows and book her for live events through her Instagram page @sidneyosullivanmusic. Those interested in Voodoo Brewing Co. can visit https://valrico.voodoobrewery.com/ for more information.

Music brings people together from all different walks of life. Here in Hillsborough County, a group of people have joined one another in their shared love for music and instruments to start their own band.

By Alisa Gershman

The Eastern Hillsborough Community Band was founded in 2009 by Kim McKamey-McCullers, a trumpet player. She started a band since there were none in the area and she wanted to share her love for music. McKamey-McCullers shared that there were “10 people that showed up for the first rehearsal in a little church.” Now the group, which has become a nonprofit, has grown to have over 80 volunteer members, each playing different instruments and ranging in skill from amateur to professional. What makes the band so wonderful is that members are not required to pay to play. The group receives funding through concert proceeds and donors who graciously provide for the band, so those involved can just focus on their passion for music. The core mission is what remains strong for the group, which is “to provide an opportunity for musicians to perform with a concert band and to foster the development of musicians who wish to make a cultural contribution to their community.”

Since many members come from different backgrounds, each brings something new to the group, making it a melting pot of cultures and people.

Cheryl Walkover, one of the band members, mentioned that her “favorite thing about the band is [they] are all like a family.”

Walkover is a clarinet player who joined the band in 2013 and has been improving her skills ever since high school.

Not only are the musicians a large part of the group, but also the composer is the one who truly brings them all together in one harmonious blend. Kevin Lewis is a trained music professional, teaching in the county for 37 years. He also plays the trombone in an orchestra at First Baptist Church of Brandon, where he is also the instrumental music director.

As opportunities to play grow, the group is planning to embark on an exciting journey to play in Normandy, France. The band has been invited for the June 2026 D-Day Commemoration, where they will join others in a mass band on Utah Beach for the prelude music. They will also play a 30-minute concert during the Concert de Liberation in the village of Sainte-Mere-Eglise. This chance to play on a big stage is amazing for the local band, and the members can’t wait to represent the local community on such a prestigious level.

With the waiting list growing for those who want to join, members of the community are thrilled to have a place to share their love for music. The band is proud to serenade anyone who wants to listen, and the members are continuously sharpening their skills. For those who want to join, they must have experience in a high school band or any equivalent to that.

More information on the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band can be found on their website, www.ehcb.org.

Sidney O’Sullivan is a regular live performer at Voodoo Brewing Co. in Valrico.

CELEBRATING A LEGACY OF GIVING: SHELTAIR AND AVFUEL PRESENT CHECK DONATIONS

TO ACE AND CAF

In a heartfelt ceremony held on the one-year anniversary of the Jerry Holland Destination: Aviation Playground, Sheltair and Avfuel proudly presented checks totaling over $21,000 to the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE) and the Commemorative Air Force - Tampa Bay Wing (CAF). This generous contribution, derived from fuel sales during the 51st anniversary of SUN ’n FUN (SNF) and T-shirt sales, underscores their ongoing commitment to nurturing the future of aviation and honoring our rich history.

ACE received over $19,000, while CAF was presented with more than $2,000. These donations are a testament to the successful collaboration between Sheltair, Avfuel and the aviation community, all coming together with a shared vision to inspire future generations and ensure the legacy of flight endures.

“We, at Sheltair, deeply believe in the importance of giving back to our local communities,” stated Lisa Holland, president and CEO of Sheltair. “Our values align with encouraging the next generation of aviators, preserving the rich tapestry of aviation history and promoting family values that have long been the cornerstone of our organization and legacy. These donations are just one way we strive to make a positive impact.”

The event was particularly special as it

Staff Report

marked the anniversary of the playground named after Jerry Holland, the founder of Sheltair and the father of Lisa. This playground serves as a beacon of interest for young aviation enthusiasts, providing countless opportunities for learning and exploration in the field of aviation.

“Over the last several years, our partners at Sheltair and Avfuel have given back 10 cents of every gallon pumped at the annual SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo to support our year-round aviation educational programming for the youth of Central Florida,” said Gene Conrad, president and CEO for the SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo and ACE. “We are grateful for this extraordinary partnership as it allows us to fuel the next generation of aerospace professionals at the Aerospace Center for Excellence.”

This marks the fifth year that Sheltair and Avfuel have collaborated to support ACE through fuel sales.

“At Avfuel, we’re passionate about fueling the future of aviation — not just through our products and services but through meaningful support of the next generation,” said Joel Hirst, Avfuel’s senior vice president of sales.

For more information about Sheltair’s initiatives and partnerships in the aviation community, please contact marketing@ sheltairaviation.com.

Expires: August 30, 2025

RAYS BASEBALL FOUNDATION HITS HOME RUN FOR LOCAL INITIATIVES

The Tampa Bay Rays aren’t just the local baseball team but also a source of community involvement and support.

The Rays Baseball Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives and circumstances of those in need within the community. It focuses on aiding youth through education and wellness.

The Rays Baseball Foundation offers seven specified programs available to youth within the community. Each program focuses on a different area of growth and enrichment.

Reading with the Rays was founded in partnership with Suncoast Credit Union to encourage students to avoid reading loss over the summer. Students can win prizes, such as tickets to a Rays game, if they reach certain reading goals through participating libraries. Over 500,000 students have participated in the Reading with the Rays program.

In June, the foundation held its Rays Science of Baseball program at Academy Prep campuses in St. Petersburg, Lakeland and Tampa. The program involves fun lessons revolving around subjects like statistics and geometry.

Other programs, such as the Big Game James Club and the Rays Jersey Program, work to give back to the community youth. The Big Game James Club is a partnership with United Concordia Dental to provide support to foster children, and the Rays Jer-

By Emma Snider

sey Program has donated over 100,000 tee ball teams with jerseys and hats, as well as helped with equipment costs.

The South St. Petersburg Neighborhood Initiative commenced following the fatal shooting of an 8-year-old girl named Paris Whitehead in South St. Petersburg. The program expanded on the topics of education and childhood wellness through the Great American Teach-

In, the Rays Room and many more.

The Rays Baseball Foundation also provides scholarships to students in the Tampa Bay area, two being the Don Zimmer Memorial Scholarship and the Barry Jones Memorial Scholarship.

“We’re lucky to be able to live in a community with so many great nonprofits. We’re honored to be able to fund them through grants and scholarships and support all the great work they’re doing,” David Egles, executive director of the Rays Baseball Foundation, said. “We’re also incredibly lucky to use the platform of baseball to teach our youth really interactive educational programming.”

Even with the transition from Tropicana field to Steinbrenner field, the Rays Baseball Foundation has worked hard to continue providing its programs and servicing the community.

For more information about the Rays Baseball Foundation, visit www.mlb.com/ rays/community/foundation-programs.

There are many local businesses in the FishHawk area that try to help and support families in whatever they may be going through. One of those in particular is the Angel Foundation FL, founded by CEO Liz Brewer. She started the foundation in 2006 shortly after her father passed away from stagefour lung cancer. Brewer realized how much support she gained from her friends and family during those difficult times and wondered what it must be like for people in similar situations who may not have the kind of support she did.

Thus, the Angel Foundation FL aims to “match families with local businesses to meet their practical needs, such as car, appliance and home repairs, … so they can focus on healing.” It also aids in paying electric, water and other bills and even provides gift cards for necessities to families that may need financial support.

Brewer said that the foundation’s main goal is to “serve 50 families each year and keep them on the road to self-sufficiency.” This allows them to not only receive help during hard times but also continue to further help themselves once they have

By Alisa Gershman

healed. Volunteers meet with the families to discuss their needs, and they may receive support within as little as 24 hours. They also run the Angel Gift Shop at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, where 100 percent of the proceeds go back to the foundation.

This year, the Angel Foundation is hosting its 20th annual Evening of Hope Gala, which is its largest fundraiser of the year. The event raises funds for families who are a part of the Angel program and allows for more businesses to get involved/support local ‘angels.’

During the event, guests listen to testimonies given by families who have been benefited by the Angel Foundation so they can learn about the impact it makes on individuals throughout the community. This year’s theme is ‘Black, White and Bling’ and includes activities such as a silent auction and live entertainment.

The Angel Foundation FL is looking for more Angel team members to help support its cause. For those interested, more information can be found on its website at https://angelfoundationfl.com/evening-ofhope-gala/.

Rays Science of Baseball at Academy Prep.

Families and community leaders come together for the gala to celebrate all that the foundation has done.

It’s that time of year again where we are generally fortunate to receive rain frequently. If you are looking for a way to capture rainfall when it arrives, consider creating a rain garden in a low area in your landscape or at the bottom of a downspout where water puddles. The purpose of a rain garden is to capture stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces (roofs, driveways, sidewalks) and allow the captured runoff water to percolate through the soil.

GET THE DIRT: CREATING A RAIN GARDEN

BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT

Rain gardens are beneficial. They decrease flooding and erosion while attracting wildlife and beneficial insects. These gardens filter runoff that would otherwise carry pollutants (grass clippings, pet waste, fertilizer) to storm drains and ultimately into Tampa Bay, contributing to algae bloom and killing fish.

To create a rain garden, first, determine the size and location. It should be at least 10 feet from your foundation and in an existing low area that drains quickly after heavy rain. This garden should be in full sun, not within 25 feet of a septic system or well, away from tree roots

and within 30 feet of a water source.

Next and before you start digging, be sure to call 811, Sunshine State One-Call of Florida Inc., for underground utility marking. Then, design the shape of your rain garden by laying out a garden hose in the manner you desire.

Select plant materials after you have determined the site conditions (sun, mature height, spread). If you install a rain garden in sandy soil, it will only hold water for a few hours. This will add to your maintenance duties, which include watering, weeding and using sphagnum/peat moss to decrease weed growth. Select plants that like ‘wet feet’ and are drought tolerant for times when rainfall is infrequent. Plant examples include cinnamon fern, frogfruit, muhly grass, Florida gamma grass, swamp sunflower and goldenrod.

Stop by 5339 County Rd. 579 in Seffner, where you can see our rain garden in the Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden located in our courtyard. Remember to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat!

Lynn Barber: labarber@ufl.edu.

BRANDON AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY CONNECTS GLOBALLY DURING EVENT

From June 28-29, the Brandon Amateur Radio Society (BARS) participated in the American Radio Relay League (AARL) Field Day. BARS spent Field Day at Riverview Redeemer Church, located at 12404 Boyette Rd. Field Day is an open house for amateur radio societies. Every year on the fourth full weekend in June, radio societies and licensed club members all meet and set up their radios, ranging from large radios with tall, powerful antennas to radios smaller than a walkie-talkie. Once set up, participants search different frequencies to make connections with members of other clubs around the world. After exchanging radio identification information with each other, participants log the information into ARRL’s website and a connection is marked. Teams and individuals can win awards for finishing making the most connections within the 24-hour window. Interested locals can also get in on the fun, as BARS opened the doors to the public for Saturdays and Sundays. Everyone who entered had the opportunity to enjoy some food, learn more about BARS and meet radio enthusiasts, including many veterans who built their own radios. BARS Field Day also featured a Get on the Air station at the front door, which let visitors make a radio connection themselves and briefly speak with someone

By Gabe Themar

from another state or even another country.

“Field Day is an important time,” said Ron, a longtime BARS member. “It’s a simulation of a disaster event; you bring your radio out of your home and get it working where it’s not meant to work. This way, we can make sure that we can make contact with help in the event of a bad weather event, like a hurricane.”

BARS finished Field Day with 137 contacts, including connections with other ham radio stations across the country in California as well as international contacts with operators in Costa Rica, U.S. Virgin Islands and Trinidad and Tobago, over 1,800 miles away.

BARS members also serve their community by reporting to shelters that open up during hurricanes, setting up their radios and acting as direct lines of communication between shelters and emergency services during power outages.

Those interested in learning more about radio, getting their own amateur radio license or joining BARS can find more information at https://brandonhamradio. org/. Those interested in learning more about Field Day or other amateur radio events can also find more information at www.arrl.org.

Swamp Sunflower

Frog Fruit

To simulate an emergency situation, one member used his truck as a portable radio station.

HUNKS VS. HURRICANES SHOWCASES RESILIENCE, UNITY AND SPIRIT

BIG BOY SOAP HOCKEY LEAGUE SLIDES INTO BRANDON WITH INFLUENCERS

Tampa’s resilience took center stage at the historic Tampa Theatre as Tampa Mayor Jane Castor joined community leaders for the premiere of HUNKS vs. Hurricanes — a short documentary celebrating everyday heroes who stepped up during last year’s back-to-back storms.

The film includes interviews with Castor and meteorologist Denis Philps and spotlights the quick, courageous response by College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving, whose crews worked around the clock to remove storm debris and support neighbors — often while dealing with their own personal storm damage.

“We were spared so many times in the past, but this, Helene and Milton, got everyone’s attention,” Castor said in the documentary. “To see everyone come together to do whatever it took to get our city back up and running — I think that was amazing.”

HUNKS vs. Hurricanes was co-produced by Emmy-nominated Brick Creative, Outbound.com and College HUNKS co-founder Nick Friedman. The documentary highlights Tampa’s resilience and will air as a donation on Tampa Bay Community Network (TBCN), a nonprofit focused on video production training and workforce development.

Anyone can tune in and find the film on YouTube at ‘HUNKS vs The HurricanesDocumentary Film.’

“We wanted to capture the spirit of ser-

vice and sacrifice we witnessed,” said Friedman. “This wasn’t just about our crews — it was about our city pulling together when it mattered most.

I hope this film inspires others to do the same in the face of adversity.”

Among those featured in the film is College HUNKS employee Mario Martinez, who lost his entire home in the floodwaters but never stopped showing up to help others.

“I had nothing left, but I knew my neighbors needed me,” said Martinez. “Helping them helped me heal. That’s what being part of this community and this company is all about.”

Founded 20 years ago by two college friends, College HUNKS has grown into a national brand with over 200 locally owned franchises. Built on a mission to ‘move the world,’ the company blends professional moving and junk removal with a strong commitment to giving back — donating over 5 million meals to U.S. Hunger, helping victims of domestic violence move and recycling or donating up to 70 percent of items to charities like Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity.

With hurricane season once again approaching, Friedman said HUNKS vs. Hurricanes is more than a film — it’s a reminder.

“Prepare. Stay connected. And never underestimate the power of community stepping up,” Friedman added.

For more information, visit www.collegehunkshaulingjunk.com. Staff Report

The Big Boy Soap Hockey League, created by former Brandon resident Nick Pletcher, hosted a tournament in June at the J.C. Handly Sports Complex.

The former Bloomingdale High School student had an idea that took shape nearly four years ago, and it has finally come to fruition. He is a video producer and founder of Glass Eye Creative, a video production company located in Atlanta, Georgia. He had the idea to film and produce a soap hockey tournament in his hometown and play with the friends that he grew up with and went to high school with.

“During my bachelor party, I saw this video on YouTube of these people playing soap hockey, so I bought all the stuff,” said Pletcher, who added that he and his friends played all weekend and had a blast. “For the next four or five years, we’ve been playing it once or twice a year, trying to get together to play it.”

Soap hockey is played on a giant 30-foot-by-40-foot, soap-drenched tarp and is usually three versus three.

“We don’t really have rules like hockey. It’s kind of more rough and tumble,” said Pletcher. “People throw their sticks; people grab a hold of each other. It’s definitely a lot more loose and a little bit more wild than normal hockey.”

TC Drums played at the event, which had a turnout of about 100 people. It had

By Nick Nahas

several sponsors, and commentators from Pewter Report. It had eight teams of three compete in the tournament. It had influencers with over half a million followers come out to be the power players in the game. Each game was 10 minutes long, and each team got one power play, where for one minute they had the ability to sub in one of the influencers.

Swaggy P, who has almost 300,000 followers, played in the event.

“The event went fantastically,” said Pletcher. “I couldn’t have asked for it to go any better. We have a YouTube channel and an Instagram and a TikTok, so we’re going to try to keep posting content.”

Pletcher would like to have more of these events in the future.

“We don’t want to just have the one tournament, we want to try to do a little more,” he said. “We’ll be trying to do more games and stuff as the year goes.”

Pletcher said that his ultimate goal is to become a team like the Savannah Bananas, where they can tour and be on TV.

“They have their own YouTube channel. Something that could sustain itself like that and get huge sponsorships and bring out crowds. So, we kind of always look at them, and it’s like a shining star of what it could be. Being on TV, that’s our goal, bringing more crowds as we go.”

Nick Pletcher had the idea to film and produce a soap hockey tournament in his hometown and play with the friends he grew up and went to high school with.

TC Drums played at the event.

College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving co-founder Nick Friedman stands with Tampa Mayor Jane Castor at its documentary debut at Tampa Theatre.

A QUARTER CENTURY OF IMPACT: PEPIN ACADEMIES MARKS 25

YEARS OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

This year, Pepin Academies celebrates a major milestone: 25 years of providing special education to students with learning disabilities and supporting them in becoming prepared for life onward.

Pepin Academies is a not-for-profit, tuition-free, independent public charter school for grades three through 12 with a transition program offering workforce education for students ages 18-22. Its campuses provide individualized instruction, career readiness and extracurricular activities through comprehensive programs that empower its students to excel academically, socially and emotionally.

“What has been innovative 25 years ago is still innovative today, in that the model still holds true — where we provide a therapeutic model to ensure that students get all the interventions that they need on-site as they need them throughout the day,” stated Dr. Jeff Skowronek, executive director of Pepin Academies.

Pepin Academies marked its anniversary with a special evening on May 3 at the Egypt Shriners Event Center in Tampa. There, around 200 community members — including former staff, current staff and even some alumni — honored Pepin’s past, celebrated its achievements and looked forward to an even brighter future. They played the Kentucky Derby live during cocktail hour, dressed in their best derby or dressy

By Taylor Wells

casual attire, danced to live music, enjoyed a fun photo booth, took part in an exclusive silent auction and experienced special presentations honoring Pepin Academies’ legacy.

“Over 25 years,” said Dr. Skowronek, “we have over a thousand students that have graduated high school thanks to this model, and for many of them high school graduation was not something in their future. We also have students that have gone on to a wide variety of jobs that their families truly felt would never have been possible without our school.”

Pepin Academies started as one school with 17 students, and today it has three campuses in Tampa, Riverview and New Port Richey that serve almost 1,150 students — another testament to the success of its mission. But when it gets down to it, Dr. Skowronek stated, Pepin’s greatest success is giving each of its students the opportunity to find their potential in an environment that supports and recognizes them as students first.

“They all have dreams and aspirations, and it’s our job to continually push the boundaries on how to make sure they reach them,” said Dr. Skowronek.

Pepin Academies’ campuses are located at 3916 E. Hillsborough Ave. in Tampa, 9304 Camden Field Parkway in Riverview and 7710 Osteen Rd. in New Port Richey. For more information, visit the website at https://pepinacademies.com/.

Current faculty and one former staff member at Pepin Academies’ 25th anniversary celebration.

“Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful,” (Colossians 3:15).

I don’t mean to sound overly dramatic, but having the grandchildren with us in church is a dream come true.

presbytery (district) meeting one day by a cynical minister who was dismissive of her positive, Christ-centered outlook. “Your problem is that you are naive,” he said. “When you gain some experience, you will change your tune.”

Grace Notes

By Debora Coty

I talk about grace a lot because I need grace a lot. And I need to learn to extend it better to others.

goes deeper than simply behaving respectably? Yep, there is.

It is always good to be in worship. But in July, having David, Beks and Geoffrey in our pew, we experienced an extra measure of grace.

Then, a series of phrases used during the service really got my attention. Here they are:

• “Christ calls us out of our distractions and into his grace.”

• “When we confess, God forgives.”

• “When we are lost in the noise, Jesus offers peace.”

Life is noisy, and we can absolutely get lost in the middle of it all. It is not just distractions; it is disappointments, it is being overwhelmed, it is pressure, it is the sense that we are not in control, it is our concern about where it is all leading, it is our lack of faith. But Jesus calls us into his grace. This is hugely important. But it is also counter-intuitive for us as human beings steeped in anxiety and in unbelief.

I have a favorite story from Rebekah that helps here. She was approached at a

She already had many more years experience in leadership than he had, via a series of pastorates at once both challenging and affirming beyond our dreams. She looked at him quizzically then offered the following rejoinder.

“I don’t think the word is naive,” she said. “After more than 30 years of ministry, I can say that I believe. I believe in Jesus, I believe in God’s promises, I believe that ‘my redeemer is faithful and true.’”

“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth,” (Job 19:23).

Faithful. True. Redeemer. We are all called into his grace. — DEREK

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

Am I alone in my gracelessness? Maybe you have this grace thing down and whenever somebody acts like a horse’s patootie to you, you smile and turn the other cheek with sincere, godly compassion and generosity of spirit oozing from your pores. Swell.

I just want to blowtorch my offender’s eyebrows off with scorching retorts.

I’m not proud of my (un)Christlikeness in this area. Growth and maturity seem to move at a snail’s pace, don’t they? Especially when we’re dealing with ungracious people.

Consider that word, gracious. Our commonly accepted definition is “exhibiting kindness and courtesy.” Exhibiting? Well, any ol’ body can do that. I can fake courtesy as well as the next Southern Steel Magnolia. We’re trained in good manners from pups. We may not feel gracious, but we pretend because it’s polite. (Otherwise, our mamas will snatch us cockeyed.)

But is this sickly sweet deceit Papa God’s intention for us to grow in grace? Is there motivation to be gracious that

If we add ‘godly’ and ‘compassionate’ and ‘generosity of spirit’ to the portrait of true graciousness like Webster does, these spiritual attributes bring us to the root of graciousness, which is, of course, grace. “God’s grace has set us free,” (Romans 6:15 NLT).

Grace, as in our heavenly Father’s grace toward us that while we were yet sinners, He sent Christ, the only perfect, sinless person who ever lived, to die in our place (Romans 5:8).

Grace, as in His amazing grace that sets us free from the fear of condemnation because we, too, like our offenders, often mess up (Romans 6:15).

I believe that once we understand and embrace the magnitude of His divine grace, our nature becomes more reflective of the attributes of Yahweh within us. Because of His grace toward us, we can extend grace to others. Real grace, not a cheap, faux grace for the sake of good manners.

So, blowtorching eyebrows isn’t really a good idea (although, I daydream about it sometimes). Papa God has a better plan: grace.

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.

LOCALLY OWNED HIMES BREAKFAST HOUSE OPENS IN RIVERVIEW

Himes Breakfast House, a Tampa-area favorite restaurant known for chef-crafted comfort food and heartfelt hospitality, opened another location in Riverview on July 1.

Owners John and Jess Christen founded the original Himes Breakfast House, located on Himes Street in Tampa, in 2021 with the goal of creating a neighborhood breakfast house with elevated food choices.

Himes’ fresh ingredient menu and guest-centered focus keep customers coming back time after time. From the moment patrons walk in the door, Himes’ warm hospitality is evident.

“We focus on customer service and getting to know our customers,” John said.

Guests not only feel welcome at Himes, but they also feel at home. They can bring in their own coffee mug and leave it at the restaurant for regular use.

“We treat our regulars like family. It’s like a home away from home,” John said. Himes’ menu includes breakfast, brunch and lunch. The selections are chef-driven and made of fresh ingredients. John says two must-tries are the Jessie grits (house-made, creamy grits served with mixed cheese, thick-cut bacon and fresh-

By Jane Owen

chopped chives) and the lemon ricotta pancakes (house-made batter pancakes whipped with lemon zest and fresh ricotta, and served with house-made citrus syrup). He added that everyone should try their syrups, as all of Himes’ syrups are made in-house and are steeped for hours. A few syrup selections include blueberry poppy, espresso maple, citrus and butter rum. During the upcoming peach season, it will feature peach French toast with a peach puree, fresh peaches and a unique peach syrup.

John said that they have been honored by the community’s response since they opened the original Himes.

“Riverview is a great area with great energy. We really love the Winthrop Town Centre. Hopefully we can make Himes home away from home for the Riverview community as well,” John said.

Himes Breakfast House is open Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Himes Riverview is located at 11220 Sullivan Ave. In addition to the original location on Himes Avenue in Tampa, Himes is also located in Brandon at 312 E. Brandon Blvd. To learn more and check out Himes’ menu, visit www.himesbreakfasthouse.com.

Himes Breakfast House Riverview, located in Winthrop Town Center, opened on July 1.