AUG VALRICO 2025

Valrico August 2025

CELEBRATING 23 YEARS OF PUBLISHING POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS

GREATER BRANDON FOURTH OF JULY PARADE AWARDS DINNER SETS STAGE FOR HISTORIC 2026 PARADE

By Linda Chion

The awards ceremony for the Greater Brandon Fourth of July Parade, held at New Hope Church in Brandon, drew volunteer and patriot alike to celebrate the grand tradition, which by some accounts dates back 68 years.

Six awards were granted to parade units, including to Iconic Jeep (Best Krewe), Brandon Roots (Best Amateur Float), On Target 4-H Club (Best Unusual Vehicle), TC Drumline (Best Musical Marchers), Providence Baptist Church (Best Decorated Vehicle) and the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment – Rough Riders (Best Professional Float).

In attendance as well was this year’s grand marshal, Luann Leahy, who as a volunteer at the long-established Nativity Food Bank, at Nativity Catholic Church in Brandon, started the peanut butter and jelly initiative, which this year served its 1.5 millionth sandwich.

Leahy said she was grateful for the honor to be recognized, and for the privilege, with God’s blessing, to feed the hungry.

“And it’s not just the homeless who are hungry,” she said, in remarks at the July 31 awards dinner. “We’re seeing people who have lost their jobs or having trouble making ends meet. If you are hungry, we’ll feed you. We’ll give you clothes, and give you shoes. If the need is there, we’ll help you.”

The annual parade is presented by the Greater Brandon Action Network (GBAN), which traces its roots to the Presidents Roundtable of Greater Brandon Charities, which launched the parade almost seven decades ago. Business leaders formed the roundtable to ensure the needs of nonprofits were addressed as Brandon continued to grow and expand.

GBAN’s current board members are Brandon High School graduate Lisa Rodriguez, president; Betty Jo Tompkins, vice president; Randall Munsters, treasurer; and Lela Lilyquist, secretary.

Looking ahead to 2026, GBAN is gearing up for “the biggest and best parade we ever had, in synch with the July 4th celebration for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” Tompkins said. She invited attendees to reach out to get involved, as committee meetings were set to form soon.

Recognized at the awards dinner, catered by Kojak’s House of Ribs in Seffner, were title sponsors Odiorne Insurance Agency and Auto Owners Insurance, as well as major sponsors Rivard Buick GMC, Bill’s Prescription Center, Curry Law Group and HCA Florida Healthcare (Brandon Hospital).

Also heralded were marching band members from Armwood, Brandon, Bloomingdale and Newsome high schools, as well as representatives from Hillsborough County interests, including the sheriff’s office and homeland security division, fire rescue, parks and recreation, public works, facilities management and temporary traffic control. Sherrie and Mike Moore (parade emcees) and photographers Bob Minutello and Rose and Skip Smith were also recognized.

For more on parade planning and GBAN initiative, call Betty Jo Tompkins at 813-477-8332 or Lisa Rodriguez at 813-380-6995.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and Hillsborough County Affordable Housing announce the fire academy graduation for students in the inaugural Specialized Training for Emergency Professionals (STEP) program.

Fifteen students from Hillsborough County Fire Rescue’s STEP program will graduate from the fire academy at 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at Armwood High School, 12000 U.S. Hwy. 92, Seffner, FL 33584.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue created the STEP program this year to offer an opportunity for qualified candidates to pursue a career in firefighting. More than 140 residents applied for this opportunity. The students were selected through a rigorous application process that included writing an essay, submitting references, and participating in interviews.

ty Fire Rescue, included firefighting safety, firefighting techniques, extrication, ladder drills, and search and rescue exercises. Along with identifying and selecting the students, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue worked with Hillsborough County Affordable Housing to secure funding for the STEP program through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). A percentage of the grant can be used for public service, allowing Hillsborough County Fire Rescue to pay tuition and a wage for each of the students enrolled in the STEP program.

In January 2025, the students began studying in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) field, learning about CPR, pre-hospital emergency medicine, and assessing patients. After completing the EMT training, the students continued their fire academy training at the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Fire Academy, 9450 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa, FL, 33619. The training, which was administered by Aparicio-Levy Technical College and Hillsborough Coun-

By completing the fire academy, the students met the 492-hour requirement to graduate from the Aparicio-Levy Technical College Fire Academy and will be dual certified in firefighting and EMT upon graduation. The students will now be eligible to take the state firefighter examination. Once they pass the examination, they can apply to become a firefighter at any fire department in the state.

Luann Leahey, center, with from left, Lisa Rodriguez, Betty Jo Tompkins, Lela Lilyquist and Randall Munsters.

Tarean Austin (center) graduated from the fire academy. Fire Chief Jason Dougherty (left), and Jesse Salters (right) principal of Aparicio-Levy Technical College.

Javier Del Rosario (center) was enrolled in the STEP program.

Osprey Observer reader Rochelle Murray shared a picture of her 6lb. 9oz. Large Mouth Bass caught at Medard Park. Murray says, “I grew up fishing with my father and 2 brothers . I learned my fishing skills and knowledge from my father Fred Wright. I have a true passion for fishing and the slogan “I’d rather would rather be fishing “ is so true !!!

Proud Supporters of ECHO * Board of Directors

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.

FLORIDA GAME RECOVERY HELPS LOCAL PET OWNERS FIND THEIR LOST PETS SAFE AND SOUND

Losing a beloved pet can be a heart-wrenching experience. If your pet has gone missing, Florida Game Recovery’s (FGR) advanced thermal drone technology can significantly improve your chances of finding them.

“The best part of my job is seeing a pet owner’s expression when they are reunited with their lost pet,” said Trey Larson, owner of Florida Game Recovery in Plant City.

To find lost pets or animals, Larson uses a thermal camera that’s set for white-hot imaging. Cool areas show as gray, but an animal’s temperature causes it to glow like a light in the dark.

“The thermal camera is extremely high quality,” Larson said. “It can pick up all the different heat signatures. Animals stand out extremely well. We scan the area looking at each different heat signature. For an animal, we switch over to the 200x zoom camera. It is a 48-megapixel camera, so it can zoom in incredibly far. During the day, even from 400 feet in the air, I can zoom in and see every detail on the animal to differentiate whether it is the missing pet or just another animal on the loose in the area. One of the questions people ask is how I figure out the animals I locate at night. The drone has an 8,000-lumen spotlight on it. So, whenever we locate an animal with the thermal camera, then we

By Libby Hopkins

switch over to the zoom camera with the spotlight. From 400 feet in the air, we can zoom in and immediately differentiate between the missing pet or somebody else’s pet.”

Once Larson locates the missing animal, he uses a laser rangefinder.

“I point that at the pet and push a button, and it drops a pin in the exact location of the pet,” Larson said. “It coordinates that with Google Maps, and it pulls up a QR code. The pet owner can scan that QR code, and it pulls the exact coordinates of where that animal is sitting. Once we do that, I keep the watchful eye in the sky, while the pet owner looks at their phone and responds to that exact location. I talk to the owner on the phone. I can see the owner approaching, and I can guide them to the animal even if it is moving so they can recover it.”

Lost pet recovery can be difficult, depending on the response location and type of pet.

“Dogs can travel a large distance quickly, which can cause searching to take a longer amount of time,” Larson said. “Cats tend to stay closer to their home or lost location and can be found much quicker with the thermal drone.”

For more information on Florida Game Recovery, you can visit its website at www. floridagamerecovery.com or call Larson at 813-434-6584.

Trey Larson of Plant City is the owner of Florida Game Recovery.

By Libby Hopkins

Staff Report

When local high school graduates Lauren and Steven Keys opened their college tutoring business, CramBetter, in the fall of 2023, they offered premed and engineering undergraduates help with five notoriously difficult math and science classes, including calculus and physics.

Thanks to a combination of high instructional quality, 24-hour service and a low price point of $40 per month, CramBetter has exploded in popularity among both students and parents — particularly at the University of South Florida (USF) and the University of Central Florida (UCF).

According to Kyle Kosuda, an engineering major at UCF, “CramBetter has been really really helpful for Physics 1 at UCF. I’ve been struggling in my class with a new professor, but with CramBetter, I was able to actually learn and grasp the topics. Had I not had access to CramBetter, I’m really not too sure my grade would look the way it does currently.”

The company now boasts coverage of 17 different math and science courses between USF and UCF campuses and also serves other schools like Florida State University, University of Georgia, Clemson University and Auburn University. Most recently, the tutoring service has added support for both general and organic chemistry.

When students register on CramBetter’s website, they gain instant access to a collection of tailored study guides and short explanation videos intended to make tough topics more approachable. CramBetter also provides practice exams designed to look like real USF and

UCF tests, along with video solutions to every problem, which are recorded by expert tutors.

CramBetter’s USF and UCF tutors are native English speakers and seasoned educators, each having a master’s degree or higher in their field and a minimum of eight years of teaching experience. Students can ask their tutors questions directly via CramBetter’s online platform 24 hours a day.

In spite of its name, CramBetter recommends that students register as early in the semester as possible, using the service to study an hour or two each week instead of waiting to sign up the night before their tests. With a new semester fast approaching, it’s worth considering for anyone with physics, calculus or chemistry lectures on their upcoming class schedule.

For more information about CramBetter tutoring at USF, UCF and other schools, visit its website at https://crambetter.com/.

The Tampa Pig Jig, one of Tampa Bay’s premier philanthropic festivals, returns for its 14th year on Saturday, October 18 at Julian B. Lane Park. This year’s powerhouse lineup is headlined by rising Country superstar Megan Moroney, with performances by double Grammy® nominees Midland, singer-songwriter Matt Nathanson, Americana duo Jamestown Revival, and Country newcomer George Pippen.

Presented by RIPA, Valley Bank, and The Baldwin Group, the Tampa Pig Jig is more than a music festival—it’s a day of live entertainment, mouth-watering food, backyard games, a silent auction, and family-friendly fun, all for a powerful cause.

While continuing to support NephCure, Pig Jig will also benefit local nonprofits that assist families facing life-altering medical diagnoses.

What started as a backyard BBQ for a friend diagnosed with a rare kidney disease has grown into one of the region’s most impactful charitable events. To date, the Pig Jig has raised over $9 million, becoming the largest annual donor to NephCure Kidney International and helping launch more than 60 clinical trials for rare, protein-spilling kidney diseases like FSGS and Nephrotic Syndrome.

Now hosted by the HopeWill Foundation, the event is expanding its mission.

Megan Moroney, whose 2024 album Am I Okay? debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200, brings her chart-topping energy to the main stage. Midland brings a modern twist to classic Country, Matt Nathanson delivers hits like “Come On Get Higher,” and Jamestown Revival offers rich Americana storytelling. Rising star George Pippen rounds out the lineup with his rugged vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Tickets go on sale Friday, May 16 at 10 a.m., starting at $125 via Eventbrite.

New this year is the Backyard Bash ticket, which includes exclusive access to a second acoustic stage, private bar, tastings, and an air-conditioned tent. For a VIP experience, the Milestone Supply Lounge offers unlimited BBQ, drinks, front-stage views, and shaded seating.

Children 10 and under are free, with the same access as the accompanying adult. For tickets, sponsorships, volunteer opportunities, or more event info, visit tampapigjig.com.

Country superstar Megan Moroney will perform at this year’s PIg Jig event in Tampa.

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813-657-2418 editor@ospreyobserver.com NEWS

Taylor Wells

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Libby

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libby@ospreyobserver.com

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bandrew@ospreyobserver.com

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR 2025–26 LEADERSHIP BRANDON PROGRAM

twells@ospreyobserver.com CUSTOMER

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of ACT Coaching Solutions located at 5668 Fishhawk Crossings BLVD. Ste 121 in Hillsborough County, in the city of Lithia, FL 33547 intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida

Dated at Valrico, Florida this 3rd day of August 2025

Owner: ACT Health Solutions, LLC

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR

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.

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.

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

“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,” said Chadwell.

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 Regent, called the program a transformative experience.

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.

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

Staff Report

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.

SIGNS YOUR AGING PARENT MAY NEED MEMORY CARE

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:

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.

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

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.

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

“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 accomplish together as a community,” said Merkle. “This race wasn’t about politics —

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.

If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping espresso on the Amalfi Coast or twirling fresh pasta under the Sicilian sun, you might want to make your next reservation at Che Vita, Tampa’s newest culinary gem tucked inside the Hilton Downtown.

The name Che Vita translates to “What a Life,” and after one bite of the housemade pasta or a sip of their smoked tableside Old Fashioned, you’ll understand exactly why.

Formerly known as 211 Restaurant, this space has undergone a total transformation—both in decor and direction. Guided by Complex Executive Chef James King, a Le Cordon Bleu London alum and certified Master Pizzaiolo (yes, that’s a real title) from Naples, the menu draws inspiration from the sun-soaked southern regions of Italy: think Amalfi, Tuscany, Rome, and Venice, with a side of modern finesse.

King, who trained in Italy while developing Che Vita’s concept, wanted to bring a slice of the Mediterranean to Tampa. “The ambiance and the brightness here at Che Vita reminds me of floating along the sundrenched Amalfi Coast,” he says. And truly, the moment you walk in, you feel it—the elegant, open space bathed in warm tones and natural light feels like a coastal escape from the city bustle outside.

Che Vita delivers where it counts: the food.

By Marie Gilmore

The pasta? Made fresh daily. The wood-fired pizzas? Crisp, chewy perfection with just the right char. Standouts include a velvety cacio e pepe that rivals anything you’d find in Rome, and a seasonal seafood risotto bursting with Gulf Coast freshness.

The pizza menu is a love letter to Naples, and if you’re a crust connoisseur, the Margherita is a must. Add a glass (or bottle) from their extensive wine list, and you’ve got yourself a mini-vacation in a glass and on a plate. Cocktail lovers, rejoice— the tableside smoked Old Fashioned is as theatrical as it is tasty, and there’s a well-curated list of aperitivi that are perfect for unwinding before dinner.

Pro tip: save room for dessert. The espresso-soaked tiramisu is both delicate and indulgent, and pairs perfectly with an after-dinner macchiato.

.“We wanted people to taste the flavors and joy in the ingredients,” says King. Whether you’re heading to a concert at Amalie, meeting clients for lunch, or out for a romantic date night, Che Vita fits the bill. Bonus: valet parking is complimentary when dining, which is a rare perk downtown. Che Vita is located inside the Hilton Tampa Downtown, 211 N Tampa St, Tampa, FL 33602 and is Open Daily: Breakfast: 7–11 a.m. Lunch: until 2 p.m. Dinner: Sunday–Thursday 5–10 p.m.; Friday & Saturday until 11 p.m. Visit www.chevitatampa.com

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

Construction is now underway on the highly anticipated Hammock Bay community in Apollo Beach. General contractor RIPA & Associates has teams on-site working on what is poised to be one of the last new luxury waterfront communities available on scenic Tampa Bay.

Initial construction activity at Hammock Bay is focusing on enhancing the community’s seawall and preliminary site work in advance of infrastructure installation. Finished homesites are slated for delivery by end of 2025.

Hammock Bay is a development by Impact Properties, a company with over 40 years of real estate development experience creating successful landmark properties throughout Florida. Nestled along 16 acres of Apollo Beach coastline, this boutique community will offer just 47 expansive homesites, each with a private boat dock and impressive waterfront views.

Designed as a secluded sanctuary with gated entry, Hammock Bay will feature both custom and pre-designed residences that showcase a consistent modern architectural elegance and high-end finishes, distinguishing it from older mixed-style waterfront communities in the local area.

Renowned for its elevated boating lifestyle, Hammock Bay’s setting in Apollo Beach is removed from the congestion of the Tampa Bay area, yet close to dining, shopping, schools, healthcare and other

conveniences. Hammock Bay is only 10 miles from Tampa, 12 miles from St. Petersburg and 16 miles from the scenic Skyway Bridge.

Hammock Bay has already seen remarkable interest since the community was announced, with 50% of homesites reserved by buyers eager to claim a piece of this exceptional waterfront lifestyle. The community promises not only luxury but also unparalleled access to the water, with each residence featuring a private dock and direct entry to Tampa Bay’s waterways.

Waterfront homesites are now available from the $600s at Hammock Bay. Homes will range from 3,500 to more than 7,500 square feet, with prices for home lot packages starting around $1.8 million and reaching up to $10 million. In addition to stunning design, homes at Hammock Bay will be built above industry standards to withstand Florida’s unique coastal challenges, ensuring long-term security and peace of mind. Additional information is available by visiting LiveHammockBay.com or calling 813.535.5254.

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”.

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

By Emma Snider

annual 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.

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.

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

Report

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.

MICHAEL MCCROSKERY COMBINES FAITH AND SERVICE IN LIFELONG JOURNEY OF GIVING BACK

Michael McCroskery of Brandon has a true servant’s heart. He has traveled the world and volunteered to teach children English and Spanish. He has also volunteered with numerous organizations all over the Tampa Bay area, where he has tutored children. He has substituted for Hillsborough County schools as well. He is happily married and very spiritual.

When McCroskery retired, he found that he needed to do something new to keep himself occupied.

Michael McCroskery of Brandon has had an amazing and active life. When he retired, he found he needed to do something to keep himself occupied. He found an abandoned grocery cart, fixed it and started picking up the litter he found on his daily walks.

“In retirement, Michael sought ways to be a good citizen, a good neighbor and a good Catholic,” said Michael’s mother, Suzanne Hiebert. “Michael is someone who is concerned about the environment as well.”

McCroskery was a cross-country runner in high school and continued running afterward. Some years later, he was in a car accident and could no longer run. He took up walking, and while he did his daily walks, he became upset by all the litter he found on the streets and sidewalks.

He found a damaged grocery cart with no business name attached to it, so he repaired it and painted it environmental green.

By Libby Hopkins

“He found a local sign company that created signs for his cart,” Hiebert said. “FASTSIGNS of Brandon was kind enough to donate the signs for Micheal’s cart since he was going to use it to help the community.”

For hours at a time, McCroskery canvasses his Brandon neighborhood, picking up trash. He then returns home to sort the trash.

“He recycles the aluminum cans and plastic bottles,” Hiebert said. “He throws the trash in the garbage, and any clothes he finds that are in good condition he washes and donates it to ECHO of Brandon.”

ECHO loves the work McCroskery is doing in the community.

“He does this out of the goodness of his heart, and I believe his initiative is so worthy of recognition,” said ECHO’s development associate, Annafe’ Coburn. McCroskery loves giving back to his community by volunteering and keeping it clean.

“Michael is not seeking payment for his services,” Hiebert said. “He wants to make the Brandon community better for all of us and this is his way of making it better. I am so proud and honored to be his mom.”

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.

LESSONS SUMMER SWIM

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

By Nick Nahas

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.

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.”

Registration continues through Friday,

“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.”

Photos courtesy of Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation

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

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.

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/.

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

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

UPCOMING PLANTS & PETS EVENT: KERBY’S NURSERY

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/.

Dr. Charles Devine of TMS of Central Florida is proud to provide NeuroStar TMS therapy as an alternative treatment for Major Depression and OCD. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a safe, effective FDA cleared treatment for individuals, 15 years and older who suffer from Major Depression and adults with OCD. It is for individuals that have tried and failed medication due to the side effects or did not receive positive results. TMS is not a drug or “shock” therapy. TMS therapy is an in-office treatment that is 18 minutes and 45 seconds long. Treatments are done 5 days a week for 7 weeks. It requires no down time! You can resume all normal activities immediately such as returning to school or work. We accept most insurances. We are conveniently located at 336 East Bloomingdale Avenue in Brandon.

Visit our websites Tmscentralflorida.com or NeuroStar.com or contact us at 813-423-7037 for more information.

CDC OF TAMPA OFFERS A HOME BUYER CLUB TO HELP RESIDENTS WHO ARE NEW HOMEOWNERS IN THE COMMUNITY

Corporation to Develop Communities of Tampa Inc. (CDC of Tampa) creates opportunities for people to build prosperous futures and vibrant communities. It creates opportunities by deploying comprehensive community development strategies that connect workforce development, housing and real estate with education, resident leadership and community safety to drive economic prosperity.

By Libby Hopkins

numerous phone calls asking up for help with new homeowner issues, so the Home Buyer Club was created to offer various classes that provide help with some of the challenges our clients had.”

Founded in 1992, CDC of Tampa has built a proven track record of reducing disparities for people and communities throughout Tampa, Hillsborough County and beyond.

The CDC of Tampa currently has a Home Buyer Club program that equips families with the resources, skills and support needed for lasting homeownership success. By fostering meaningful community connections, teaching practical skills and encouraging responsible homeownership, this initiative strengthens families and contributes to sustainable, thriving communities while empowering generations to flourish.

“We have been building affordable housing for more than 25 years,” said Vanessa McCleary of CDC Tampa. “One of the issues that came up when working with new home buyers, there is a transition from being a renter to a homeowner. We were getting

The Home Buyer Club offers several classes. Affordable Housing Showcase explores the possibilities of affordable homeownership. Budgeting for Homeownership dives into the differences between renting and owning, offering strategies to manage your budget and avoid pitfalls like credit card debt when offers flood your mailbox. H.O.A. for Good provides insight into their roles, benefits and potential drawbacks, helping homeowners navigate them with confidence. Disaster Preparedness safeguards homeowners’ homes in Florida’s storm-prone climate. Homeowners will learn proactive measures to protect their property, respond effectively to damage and recover quickly to secure their investment.

“Our hope with theses classes is to empower new homeowners with knowledge and take the first step toward homeownership and financial security,” McCleary said. Visit its website at www.cdcoftampa.org or call 813-231-4362. The CDC of Tampa is at the Chloe Coney Urban Enterprise Center, located at 1907 E. Hillsborough Ave., Ste. 100, in Tampa.

CDC of Tampa Inc. was incorporated for the purpose of alleviating poverty and physical deterioration in Hillsborough County’s East Tampa community.

The Bokor family in front of their farmhouse.

AUGUST IS BREASTFEEDING AWARENESS MONTH

As a new or experienced mom, you’ve likely heard that “breast is best” when feeding your child. If you can, only breastfeeding your baby for the first six months is considered the best option. And it’s even better if you can keep offering breast milk at least until their second birthday.

Although breastfeeding can be difficult at first, it offers several benefits for your baby and you. Talking with a lactation consultant can make the process easier so you can enjoy the advantages breastfeeding offers.

“When you choose to breastfeed your baby, you put them on a path for a healthier life. It’s also a choice that boosts your health and well-being,” says Janna Aaron, lactation consultant with AdventHealth Riverview. “Our lactation consultants are here to answer your questions and help you and your baby settle into a relaxed breastfeeding routine.”

Your breast milk is your baby’s super food — it meets all their nutritional needs. It also has antibodies that boost their immune system and lower their risk of many health conditions like ear infections, diabetes, lung problems, al -

Staff Report

lergies and childhood cancer. When you breastfeed, you get some of the same benefits. Your risk of breast, ovarian, uterine and endometrial cancer drops, and you’re less likely to develop diabetes, high blood pressure or osteoporosis.

“The benefits of breastfeeding go beyond health improve -

ments, though,” Aaron says. “It’s a free, convenient way to feed your baby. It’s always the right temperature, and it’s always available. You never have to pack supplies, so it’s easy to satisfy a hungry baby when you’re on the go.”

With AdventHealth, you have four convenient ways to get the breastfeeding guidance you need. You can register for one of our breastfeeding classes or join a weekly Baby Bunch class for moms with babies under 12 months old. Schedule a one-on-one consultation at any of our locations or call our breastfeeding support warmline for in-the-moment advice.

Call 656-233-5404 to learn more about our classes or to schedule a consultation with one or our lactation consultants.

LOCAL TEEN RECOGNIZED FOR HER DISCOVERY OF NATURAL SOLUTION TO CITRUS DISEASE

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.

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.

MEET LYNN BARBER:

THE OSPREY OBSERVER’S OWN HORTICULTURE EXPERT

Lynn Barber is teaching residents of Hillsborough County safe and clean landscaping practices and writing for the Osprey Observer to share her knowledge. Her work with the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program helps Floridians with their landscaping and gardening practices, and Barber is a very important piece of that puzzle.

By Michaela Galligan

Lynn Barber poses in a garden with a book for her column, ‘The Lazy Gardener.’

Barber is originally from Iowa and lived and worked there for the beginning of her professional career. She then moved to Minnesota before making the jump south to Tampa, where she has lived in Lithia since 2000, along with her 24-year-old cat, Tina.

“I was first terrified to move to Tampa,” said Barber. “Between the bugs and the heat, it seemed intimidating, but now I never want to leave.”

At Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Barber serves as the agent for Hillsborough County. She has been in the University of Florida organization for 22 years, first writing grants and overseeing the construction of the Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden, a collection of gardens designed to convey landscape designs and maintenance ideas, filled with beautiful Florida horticulture. Visitors are welcome to tour and walk through the garden, where they can learn about the different plants that fill the area. The garden is located at 5339 County Rd. 579 in Seffner.

Barber’s work teaches Hillsborough residents many important skills for outdoor planning and landscaping, offering many classes that only cost residents $10. These classes include composting skills, microirrigation techniques and rainwater harvesting. Her home landscape was recognized in 2009 as a Florida-Friendly Landscape with the tips taught in these courses.

“We teach people how to compost and can conserve specific things they are using in their homes,” said Barber. “They can turn these things into something amazing.”

Barber also writes for several community papers and journals throughout Hillsborough County. She had received the Osprey Observer in the mail since moving to Florida and joined the writing team in 2015. In her articles, she discusses a variety of topics, like gardening tips and tricks as well as plants that make great gifts.

Her column about ‘The Lazy Gardener’ is one of her favorites, giving new or casual gardeners ideas of what plants to place where, going over irrigation systems and discussing more important things to know before starting their gardens.

Lynn Barber is continuing in her role at Florida-Friendly Landscaping and writing for the Osprey Observer, and she can’t wait to continue educating the community on landscaping.

LAWYER AND CIVIC LEADER DAWN MYERS RUNNING FOR JUDGE

By Emma Snider

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.

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.

“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/.

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

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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.

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.

PARA-ATHLETE HAYDEN COMPTON WINS 4A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP IN 800M RACE

By Nick Nahas

“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

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.

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.”

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

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.

COUNTY SERVICES OFFER STORM PREP TIPS FOR UPCOMING HURRICANE SEASON

As hurricane season continues through the summer months, Hillsborough County wrapped up its second annual Make a Plan Monday series in July, offering residents hands-on guidance and demonstrations to better prepare for potential storms.

The final event, hosted by the county, featured several stations where experts provided step-by-step demonstrations on crucial safety practices — ranging from sandbag use to shelter registration.

One of the most important lessons? Proper sandbag placement. With thousands of new residents moving into the area each year, officials emphasized the importance of knowing how to correctly position sandbags in front of doors or garages to prevent flood damage.

Generator safety was also a top topic.

“Many residents have generators, and many don’t use them on a regular basis,” staff explained. “We walk through tips on how to use and how to prepare your generator for hurricane season.”

At the landscaping station, county staff showed why trimming trees and preparing outdoor areas are essential steps before a storm. The setting featured large trees to help demonstrate how to assess and remove potential hazards. They also explained how to properly dispose of yard waste so it is collected efficiently by the county.

Boat owners weren’t left out. Experts provided a walkthrough on securing boats ahead of storms, including best practices, such as using proper straps and bumpers, removing electronics, turning off breakers, and either trailering smaller boats or lifting them if possible.

The session also clarified shelter guidelines. County officials noted that general shelters are intended for those in flood zones, not for residents in single-family homes in non-floodprone areas. And shelter space is limited.

“Shelters offer a safe space but only 20 sq. ft. per person, and pets must be separated

from their owners,” staff emphasized.

“When residents evacuate to a shelter, they should bring any documents and identification that’s hard to replace,” explained Katja Miller, operations section chief with the Hillsborough County Office of Emergency Management. “Our special needs shelters are managed by the Department of Health, and it’s very important that residents preregister so that we know what specific requirements are needed.”

She also recommended residents visit the county’s Stay Safe page to look up their shelter locations and flood zones and register for

By Marie Gilmore

us due to allergies and sanitation; however, while it is safe, we would like owners to come feed and walk their animal.”

And for those considering a new companion, the Pet Resource Center currently has more than 200 cats and over 200 dogs available for adoption — including Neptune, an 8-year-old dog who made a special appearance during the event.

HCFL Alert, the county’s official notification system. The alert system notifies residents of severe weather, evacuations, road closures, events and even funding opportunities.

Steinbrenner High School Shelter Manager Shannon Harris added, “My main goal when a family has to evacuate to the shelter is that the family feels safe, secure and supported.”

For pet owners, Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center will assist at shelters. Matt Armetta a shelter staff member, explained, “First, sign in at a shelter and then come see us with your pet. Bring a crate, food, toys, favorite blanket. Pets will be housed with

Mobile home residents also received specific advice. “When we have evacuation orders, it’s very important for people in mobile homes, not RVs but actually mobile homes, to make sure their tiedowns are anchored and that they shut off the electricity when they leave,” said JonPaul Lavandeira, division director for code enforcement. For business owners, preparedness includes financial planning. Robert Pierce III, senior business continuity and resilience coordinator for the county, advised: “Check on insurance coverages and see what is excluded, and keep up-to-date financials and some cash reserves.”

Christina Hummel, the county’s community rating project manager for floodplain management, added that it’s not too late to take action. “Prepare your house and property for any possible hurricane, including trimming trees and bushes and making sure everything in your yard is secured,” said Hummel.

Residents can register for HCFL Alert at https://hcfl.gov or call 813-272-6602 for assistance.

Animal Services representative Matt Armetta with Pet Services adoptee Neptune, ready for a new family.

Jon-Paul Lavandeira, division director for code enforcement reminds mobile home owners who evacuate to turn off power.

Katja Miller, operations section chief and Steinbrenner High School Shelter Manager Shannon Harris give tips for county shelters.

Robert Pierce III, senior business continuity and resilience coordinator for the county and Christina Hummel, the county’s community rating project manager for floodplain management advise residents to prepare early.

USPS CELEBRATES 250 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH NEW STAMPS

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 was held on Wednesday, July 23, at noon at USPS Headquarters, located at 475 L’Enfant Plaza SW in Washington, D.C. Updates and news will be shared under the hashtags #250Yearsof-

Delivering 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. Staff Report

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

Every day in the U.S., 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.

PEDIATRIC DOCTOR WARNS ABOUT A RISE IN E-BIKE AND E-SCOOTER INJURIES

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital is seeing an increasing number of patients with electric bike and scooter-related injuries this summer.

Pediatric emergency physician Dr. Michael Haynes said this reflects a nationwide trend of more children being hurt in e-scooter and e-bike accidents.

“We were seeing kids come in that were found unconscious on the ground by their neighbors, kids coming in with broken limbs,” Dr. Haynes said.

said he’s seen too many kids come into the emergency room with e-bike and e-scooter-related injuries.

While road rashes are the less severe injuries Dr. Haynes and his team are seeing from these accidents, he said too many have head injuries and more serious problems.

He said he’s seeing more serious injuries in older teenagers.

In Florida, riders under 16 are required to wear helmets, but there is no age limit for users of electric bikes and scooters. These can be ridden on public roadways and sidewalks.

A spokesperson for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said Florida law “requires riders to observe all of the same traffic rules and laws as bicyclists.” Dr. Haynes said riders are using these vehicles as a substitute for a car, especially if they don’t have a license or an -

By Lily Belcher

other way to get to work or have other obligations.

These vehicles can go up to 30 miles per hour, and Dr. Haynes said that when the rider crashes, they can be thrown from their bike or scooter.

“It’s basically like riding a motorcycle, and then it’s making you into a projectile,” he said. “And there’s no protection for you.”

He said there have been weeks where he sees at least one e-bike or e-scooter-related incident a day.

“In general, we usually see outdoor-based injuries in the summer,” he said, “but kids are using these to transport themselves to and from school, to and from work. So, I think it’s just going to be a more year-round thing.”

Dr. Haynes added parent supervision could help reduce these injuries, but in some cases it’s just not possible.

He said that if parents wouldn’t let their kid drive a motorcycle, they should consider the similarities e-bikes and e-scooters have to a gasoline-powered vehicle.

“I can fix a broken arm. I can fix a broken leg. I can’t necessarily fix your broken skull,” Dr. Haynes said.

At the bare minimum, he said riders need to be wearing a helmet.

HISTORY CENTER LAUNCHES NEW ‘THE LURE OF FLORIDA FISHING’ EXHIBIT

A new traveling exhibit at the Tampa Bay History Center casts a line into Florida’s fishing heritage, exploring more than a century of angling history from the Gulf to the Atlantic. The Lure of Florida Fishing opens on Saturday, August 23, in the Wayne Thomas Gallery.

Featuring more than 50 locally made lures, vintage photographs, rare artifacts and ‘fish tales’ from across the state, the exhibit brings Tampa Bay’s prominent role in Florida’s fishing legacy to the forefront. From early tarpon expeditions to modern charter operations, the display highlights how fishing helped shape Florida’s tourism and outdoor recreation industries.

The exhibit includes contributions from the Touchton Map Library, which holds dozens of historical fishing maps, many of which identify long-guarded ‘secret’ spots.

“Secret fishing spots have been around as long as people have been fishing, and putting those ‘secret’ spots on maps followed soon after,” said Rodney Kite-Powell, director of the Touchton Map Library at the history center. “The Touchton Map Library collection has dozens of fishing maps, and this exhibit gives us a great opportunity to share them — and those secret spots — with our visitors.”

Art also plays a key role in the exhibit, with a dedicated section featuring 22 original

paintings by Southern artist William Aiken Walker. Found in a shipping box labeled for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, the paintings include images of tarpon, grouper, Spanish mackerel and other Florida game fish.

“There is wonderful art in The Lure of Florida Fishing exhibit, including a section on William Aiken Walker’s fish paintings, painted carvings by artist Conrad Brayman and artworks by Lamar Sparkman and Kent Hagerman,” said Michelle Hearn, director of curatorial affairs at the history center. “There are 59 lures that were designed and crafted in the Tampa Bay area.”

The Lure of Florida Fishing also examines the rise of sport fishing clubs, fishing guides, techniques, tackle and tournaments throughout the 20th century, including notable personalities such as Ernest Hemingway, Ted Williams and President Dwight D. Eisenhower. It concludes with a look at conservation efforts and Florida’s modern role as the top fishing destination in the country. The exhibit will be on view in the Wayne Thomas Gallery through January 11, 2026, and is included with regular museum admission. The Tampa Bay History Center is located at 801 Water St. in downtown Tampa and is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, visit the website at https://tampabayhistorycenter.org/. Staff Report

Dr. Michael Haynes

Artist Lamar Sparkman created this painting depicting tarpon fishing off Gasparilla Island with the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse in the background. Tampa Bay History Center Collection

A groundbreaking initiative is making waves across Florida’s coastlines, inviting residents and tourists alike to create lasting legacies beneath the sea. This pioneering initiative is reshaping how families honor loved ones while protecting the ocean. Since 2020, the Last Call Reef project has offered Tampa Bay residents and visitors a chance to create personalized artificial reefs — lasting tributes that also restore vital marine habitats.

Led by Reef World LLC, the project blends environmental preservation, memorialization and ecotourism. Participants can choose from private reef placements or family tributes, like the Constellation Reef, which accommodates up to eight individuals, with room to expand. These underwater monuments serve as both memorials and marine sanctuaries, fostering biodiversity along Florida’s coastlines.

In Tampa, the effort is guided by project manager Tom Wade, who emphasized the long-standing impact of reef creation.

“Reef Maker started creating artificial reefs projects since 1986,” Wade said. “Since that time, they have created over 70,000 artificial reefs projects including hundreds of family memorials.”

The reef-building process is designed to be inclusive and meaningful. Families are

By Kelly Wise Valdes

invited to participate in every stage — from design to location — ensuring a hands-on experience that connects personal legacy with environmental stewardship. “All family members are welcome to be involved in every aspect of the creation and placement,” said Wade.

Beyond family memorials, the initiative also honors public service. Select veterans and first responders are eligible for free burial-at-sea memorials, reinforcing the project’s commitment to community values.

“We are currently looking for three veterans or first responders to honor with a totally free burial at sea,”

Wade said. “In Tampa, we host military honors on the USS Liberty Ship in Ybor City.”

With operations now active in Tampa, Key West, Panama City, Pensacola, Destin and Hawaii, Last Call Reef is expanding its reach and impact. The program continues to attract interest from individuals looking to honor loved ones in meaningful, unconventional ways. A growing number of families are exploring memorial reef options as a way to promote healing and leave a legacy that contributes to the planet.

This burial-at-sea service truly offers a unique way for families to turn grief and remembrance into ocean healing. To nominate a hero, visit https://lastcallreef.org/tampa/ or email floridareefproject@gmail.com.

Honoring and respecting our fallen veterans are a large part of what Serenity Meadows Memorial Park, Funeral Home & Crematory does. Ensuring that families know that their loved ones are being taken care of and given the proper burial is always a heartwarming feeling. That is why Scout Troop 665 of Lithia decided to work with the funeral home for their Eagle Scout project of making flag retirement boxes.

The purpose behind the boxes is to be able to retire flags that are no longer able to be displayed so they can instead be recognized alongside a veteran during their cremation process. The symbol of our country’s flag holds so much respect and meaning for veterans’ families, and it is important it is given the same honor as those who have passed on. Thus, the local Scouts saw the perfect opportunity to lend a helping hand to the community in this project.

Among the main requirements for becoming an Eagle Scout are showcasing outstanding character and service abilities in and around the community. Don Westerhoff, the father of Eagle Scout Stephen West, who completed this project, shared that his son, alongside his troop, wanted to accomplish something meaningful for the community that would show respect for their veterans.

By Alisa Gershman

In doing so, he reached out to Amanda Schmidt at Serenity Meadows and shared that “together, they recognized the need for dedicated flag collection bins — secure receptacles designed to hold weathered, damaged and aged American flags gathered from the veterans’ cemetery and the surrounding community.”

After working together to come up with a vision in making these boxes, the troop was able to come up with an official plan, budget and design that would then need to be approved by different leaders within the troops. Once they received approval, they began working on assembling the boxes according to the Eagle Scout project workbook, with the help of West’s mentor, Tom Bristow, from Troop 665. Now officially in place, the boxes hold so much meaning within the community. For the troop, it is a marker of their dedication and leadership in this Eagle Scout project. For Serenity Meadows, it is a way to respect and honor all veterans who have been laid to rest there and show the community its commitment to honoring our nation’s heroes. In fact, anyone can drop off an American flag for retirement to Serenity and honor our troops. For more information, visit its website at www.memorialplanning.com or call 813-677-9494.

Reef modules are lowered into the gulf waters as part of the Last Call Reef initiative, creating enduring ocean tributes that honor loved ones.

These boxes are decorated in red, white and blue to honor and hold our nation’s retired flags.

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.

By Gabe Themar

from another state or even another country.

HILLSBOROUGH COMMUNITY COLLEGE BECOMING HILLSBOROUGH COLLEGE

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

“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.

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.

“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.

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

Beauty. Harmony. Originality.

DISCOVER HAMMOCK BAY — THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURY WATERFRONT LIVING

Nestled between Biscayne Canal and Tampa Bay, this custom home sanctuary is perfectly designed for luxurious living with a relaxing boating lifestyle. This secluded, gated community provides privacy and serenity, yet it’s close to Tampa and St. Petersburg — all within an unspoiled natural landscape.

These expansive, direct-access waterfront homesites will feature a blend of custom-built homes and a limited collection of beautifully designed new homes by two of Tampa Bay’s premier builders.

JF KICKS RESTAURANT AND PATIO

OFFERS ENTERTAINMENT AND FOOD SPECIALS EVERYDAY

JF Kicks Restaurant & Patio Bar is bringing the local Brandon community together, one fun family deal or entertaining music event at a time. The local spot has been a highlight of the area since its opening in 2007. As it celebrates its 18th anniversary, it continues to receive rave reviews and dedicated customers who support this staple.

By Michaela Galligan

Opened in the late 2000s, JF Kicks became a popular bar and grill location featuring pool tables, dart boards and video games. The patio area hosted live music events that attracted entertainment lovers from throughout the Tampa Bay area. As the years passed, ownership and ideas with the restaurant changed, with necessary adjustments being made in regard to food quality and to-go/delivery opportunities by Johnny Spieldenner and his partners. 2020 especially brought about new challenges, including a shrinking workforce and uncertainty within the service industry due to the pandemic. During that time, Spieldenner received a call from the series Bar Rescue and decided to film an episode at Kicks in hopes that the recognition would boost the business. With this success, JF Kicks now finds itself operating with the highest level of food, drinks, atmosphere and service that it’s ever seen.

Today, the restaurant and patio bar offers different deals every day of the week, such

as Thursday steak dinners to Sunday brunch. Along with the family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great place to be.

“We have so many fun events in store throughout the year at Kicks,” said Spieldenner.

“From theme nights to club meetups and school spirit nights to singles events.”

This fall, Kicks has plenty of fun events planned. NFL watch parties, fundraisers, and even a Halfway to St. Paddy’s Day celebration are all up and coming in the next few months. More information about these events can be found at https://jfkicksrestaurant.com/events/.

Another amazing aspect of this business is its dedication to supporting the community that supports it. From involvement with other local small businesses to fundraising for nonprofits, hurricane victims and all those in need, JF Kicks is doing its part in helping the greater community.

“Since day one, we have found ways to give back from benefits to fundraisers,” said Spieldenner. “We always have our ears, eyes and hearts open to jump in where we can.”

JF Kicks Restaurant & Patio Bar is located at 3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Its hours are 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday to Thursday, and 11-1 a.m., Friday and Saturday. It offers its full menu until 11 p.m. during weekdays and weekends and has a ‘late-night menu’ available until closing time.

KIDS GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE WITH JAPANESE TAIKO DRUMS AT PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENT

On June 28, from 2-3 p.m., Matthew Collins and Tampa Taiko performed at the Riverview Public Library for kids and their families, totaling over 40 people in attendance.

Taiko, which is the Japanese word for ‘drum,’ is an ancient form of percussion that uses large drums ranging in size from roughly the same size as a snare drum to as big as a small car. Taiko is considered a martial art just like taekwondo, Muay Thai and karate. In its early days, taiko was played both on battlefields and weddings because the powerful percussion instruments were seen as both intimidating and celebratory in ancient culture.

By Gabe Themar

Tampa Taiko is a family-run business that performs and teaches the drumming style to children at various venues, including schools and libraries. Matthew, who is the son of Tampa Taiko’s founder, Ron Collins, has been practicing taiko since he was 15, when he played at the Paralounge Drum Gathering for his first taiko performance. Matthew trained under the late Sensei Osoka Compton and has been doing solo shows for 15 years.

COME AS YOU ARE — THERE ’ S SOMETH N FOR EVERYONE . COME AS YOU ARE— THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.

“I remember the shows in libraries and elementary schools when I was little,” said Matthew. “Its humbling looking back and being able to be back in these spaces as a teacher now.”

Matthew began his instruction by explaining some of the history of taiko, and then he played Renshu, a typical warmup song which includes all six of the existing musical notes. Once he finished, he invited the kids up to play the taiko drums themselves, offering a handson learning experience of the martial art form. This method of teaching comes naturally with the taiko style, which predates the invention of paper, so taiko songs and proper drumming form were originally passed down through stories.

Those interested in learning more about taiko drumming or would like to book Matthew for an event can contact Tampa Taiko via their website at www. tampataiko.com or call at 727-531-7999. Those interested in attending other events hosted at the Riverview Public Library or another Hillsborough County public library can find more future events at https:// hcplc.org/.

Matthew Collins teaches Riverview children the art of taiko.

Seeds of Hope Bingo, Girl Scout Invitation & More...

Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

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.

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.

some raffle prizes, a 50/50 drawing and much more.

Girl Scout Recruitment Invitation

The Fossil Valley Service Unit of Girl Scouts of West Central Florida invites families with girls in grades K-12 to join the Girl Scout movement at a special recruitment event on Sunday, August 24, from 1-3 p.m. at Camp Dorothy Thomas, located at 16119 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.

saved and reduced disability. Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times.

“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.”

Seeds Of Hope Bingo

“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 Virtual School chief academic officer. “That’s why our fully online course offers the flexibility and accessibility

This event is open to the public and offers an exciting opportunity for girls to discover what Girl Scouts are all about — building confidence, leadership skills, friendships and a lifelong love of learning through fun, hands-on experiences.

The Fossil Valley Service Unit is also calling on local adults to step up as volunteers. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent or community member, becoming a Girl Scout troop leader or co-leader is a rewarding way to give back, support girls and even start a new troop. No prior experience is needed free training, flexible scheduling and ongoing support are provided. A minimum of two adult leaders is required to launch a new troop.

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital Is Recognized For Its Stroke Care

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives

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 awe-

BUILDING COMMUNITY IN TAMPA SINCE 1889

Did you know that since 1889, the Tampa YMCA has been a charitable organization dedicated to inspiring the health and well-being of children, families, seniors, and everyone across Tampa Bay?

We strive to meet each individual and community where they are, helping them reach their full potential and ensuring that the Tampa YMCA feels like a place where they truly belong.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and community partners, we’re able to provide these services to all, regardless of financial ability.

“HCA Florida Brandon Hospital is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” said Dr. Allauddin Khan, neurologist at Brandon Hospital. “Get With The Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more people in Brandon, Florida can experience longer, healthier lives.”

Herzing University Launches Online Bachelor Of Social Work Program

Herzing University, an accredited, private nonprofit institution with 12 campuses nationwide and a robust online division, has launched a fully online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program. Now open for enrollment, the program equips students with culturally informed knowledge, skills and values to address complex social issues and advocate for social justice in diverse communities. The program has achieved Pre-Candidacy for Accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Commission on Accreditation, an important milestone that reflects Herzing’s commitment to academic quality and professional preparation in the field of social work. To learn more about Herzing and its accreditation and approvals, visit www.herzing.edu. Compiled by

BRANDON PARADE OF LIGHTS ANNOUNCES 2025 CHARITIES OF CHOICE: HOPE FOR HER AND PCAT

The Brandon Parade of Lights (BPoL) is proud to announce Hope for Her and PCAT (Parents and Children Advance Together) Literacy Ministries as the 2025 Charities of Choice. Each charity was randomly selected by the BPoL Committee, which is in partnership with the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce and the newly merged Brandon/Riverview Chamber of Commerce. A portion of the proceeds from this year’s parade will be donated to each non-profit organization, continuing the tradition of giving back to the community.

For the second year in a row, the Brandon Parade of Lights brings together families, businesses and community members to celebrate the holiday season. This event doesn’t just light up the streets — it also shines a light on local nonprofits that serve those in need. Last year, the parade donated $3,000 to each of its selected charities, and organizers are aiming to surpass that total in 2025.

“Hope for Her and PCAT are doing incredible work for our community, pro -

ROYAL CLEANERS BUSINESS HANDLES THE TOUGH CLEANUP JOBS

By Sharon Still

Staff Report

viding vital resources and support to local families,” said Melissa Canfield, parade chairperson. “The parade is more than just floats and festivities — it’s about rallying together as a community and making a difference for organizations that touch lives every day.”

The 2025 Brandon Parade of Lights will take place on Saturday, December 13, beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Oakfield Drive in Brandon. Parade-goers can expect dazzling floats, festive music, local performers, local high school marching bands and a joyful celebration for all ages. Proceeds from sponsorships, participant entry fees and VIP grandstand ticket sales will help ensure the parade remains a highlight of the holiday season directly benefiting Hope for Her and PCAT.

For more information about the parade, sponsorships opportunities or how to get involved, visit https://brandonparadeoflights.com/.

The parade begins at South Lakewood Drive and proceeds east on Oakfield Drive, crossing Kings Avenue, to end at Vonderburg Drive. It is open to the public, and admission is free.

Royal Cleaners LLC wants to help area residents with junk removal, hoarder clean-out, crime scene cleanup and other challenging projects around the house or on the job.

Owners Steve Lewis and Nicholas Goines met as neighbors helping neighbors, installing hurricane shutters a few years ago. The duo worked well together, and in March 2023 they launched Royal Cleaners, a business that helps the community on a larger scale, particularly the area’s retirees.

“We know that a sizeable amount of the community does not want to move heavy and nasty furniture, appliances and miscellaneous items around in this Florida heat,” the pair explained. “This is where we come in, and we enjoy it because it keeps us moving around with plenty of opportunities to exercise.”

Furniture delivery, moving services, estate clean-out and construction cleanup also are available, and the company’s list of services is evolving.

“We always tell our customers to ask even if they don’t know if we can complete a service or not,” said Goines. “We generally can. Or can refer someone reputable.”

Royal Cleaners operates independently

and is not a franchise.

The business partners worked long hours creating logos, designing marketing materials and building the company’s website. The owners answer phones, handle social media pages and complete the work themselves.

“We’ve literally poured our blood, sweat and tears into building this business, so when we receive a call for service, our customers receive the same commitment to excellence,” Lewis, a former corrections deputy, stated.

That sentiment is echoed in the company’s slogan, “Royal Cleaners are here to provide the royal treatment.”

Lewis and Goines also hope to carry the message that through self-reliance and perseverance, hard work pays off.

“Our story is that of true grit, and we have the understanding that if you have a dream and want to build something, it’s up to you to do everything you can to make it happen,” explained Lewis.

Royal Cleaners services Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and other surrounding counties and are available statewide for large-scale projects. For more information, visit www.royalcleanerllc.com or call 918-519-1164 or 321-368-1556.

Royal Cleaners owners Steven Lewis and Nicholas Goines provide royal treatment when performing their cleaning services.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY BREAKS GROUND

ON 23-HOME AFFORDABLE COMMUNITY IN BRANDON: WINDHORST COMMONS

By Brian Bokor

A new neighborhood is on the way in the heart of Brandon, promising affordable homeownership, and peace of mind, for local families. Habitat for Humanity hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on July 23 for Windhorst Commons, a 23home community located at 205 W. Windhorst Rd.

The development is designed to tackle two growing challenges in the region: the shortage of affordable housing and the increasing severity of hurricanes. All homes in Windhorst Commons will include hurricane shutters, hip roofs and, notably, every structure will be built from concrete block construction on both the first and second stories. No wood-frame homes will be built in the community.

be developed by Leadership Tampa. The main road through the neighborhood will be named Justice Landing, in recognition of sponsorship from the law firm Carlton Fields.

Tina Forcier, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough, spoke at the event, reflecting on the organization’s rapid growth during her 11 years of leadership. Once providing only one home per year, the group helped 63 families build or renovate homes in 2024.

“We are so excited to follow our mission with this community. Twenty-three families will be living in this neighborhood that don’t have access to traditional mortgages,” said Forcier.

STEP INTO MASTERPIECES AS BEYOND VAN GOGH AND BEYOND MONET: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE COMES TO THE STRAZ CENTER

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is proud to present Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet: The Immersive Experience, a groundbreaking, multisensory art exhibition that opened on August 1 and is running through Sunday, September 28, at the Morsani Hall Stage.

Windhorst Commons is targeted at families earning at or below 80 percent of the area median income. Brian and Cherrish Nakamura, parents of six children ranging in age from 14-4 years old, are among the families moving into a new five-bedroom home next year. Brian, a U.S. Army veteran, shared that for some of their children, this will be the first bedroom of their own.

“We are so grateful and honored to be standing here today,” said Brian. “You’re not just building a roof and walls, you are building a foundation for our children’s future.”

A second new homeowner, Michelle Range, lost everything in a home flood during Hurricane Milton and will soon begin building her new ADA-compliant home for herself and her two sons in Windhorst Commons.

“I want to say thank you, this means so much to me and my boys,” said Range.

All 23 homes will include hurricane shutters thanks to a generous donation from the Verizon Disaster Resilience Initiative. Verizon is one of several corporate and community partners supporting the Windhorst Commons project. Others include Hillsborough County government, Hillsborough County Affordable Housing, Carlton Fields, Publix Charities, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Leadership Tampa.

The community will feature a cul-de-sac layout and include a new park, which will

The event also marked a new chapter for the nonprofit itself. Formerly known as Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County, the organization has rebranded to Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough, a name that reflects its expanding footprint across the region.

Since 1987, the local affiliate has collaborated with nearly 500 Hillsborough County families to build or improve a place to call home. The model combines affordable mortgages with required sweat equity hours and homeowner education, creating a path to long-term success.

Hillsborough County played a significant role in funding the initiative, contributing $1.4 million toward home construction and another $600,000 for infrastructure improvements. These contributions are part of the county’s ongoing commitment to increase affordable housing supply and support family stability.

Commissioner Gwen Myers, who attended the groundbreaking, reinforced this commitment: “We are going to continue to help families to have the opportunity to own the largest asset they will every own in their lifetime.”

For Brandon, Windhorst Commons marks a significant step toward preserving housing opportunities for working families. With construction now underway, first move-ins are anticipated as early as next year.

By Marie Gilmore

ing art into an unforgettable interactive experience.

Step into worlds imagined by Van Gogh and Monet. Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet takes you into these masters’ works with magnificent digital projections that immerse viewers in the unmistakable artistry of Post-Impressionist and Impressionist painters. An original score is the soundtrack to your journey through hundreds of Van Gogh and Monet’s masterworks.

This immersive event invites guests to walk directly into the works of two of the world’s most iconic painters, Claude Monet and Vincent Van Gogh. Through innovative projection technology, vivid animation and an original orchestral score, guests are transported into the luminous brushstrokes of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. Famous works, such as Van Gogh’s The Starry Night, Sunflowers and Almond Blossoms, along with Monet’s Water Lilies and Woman with a Parasol, come alive on massive screens, walls and floors — turn-

Showtimes occur every 45 minutes: Tuesdays, 12 Noon-6:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 12 Noon-6:30 p.m.; Fridays: 12 Noon-7:30 p.m.; Saturdays: 10 a.m.7:30 p.m.; and Sundays, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

This unique exhibition offers a stunning, immersive journey into the emotional and artistic landscapes of two masters who shaped the course of art history. Audiences of all ages will be mesmerized by the scale and beauty of this experience, which has captivated millions worldwide.

Tickets start at $42.75 and are on sale now. They can be purchased online at www.strazcenter.org, in person at the Straz Center Ticket Sales Office or by calling 813-229-7827 (local) or 800-9551045 (outside the Tampa Bay area). Additional handling fees may apply. For more information and ticket reservations, visit www.strazcenter.org.

Marie & Doug Gilmore enjoyed the Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet at the Straz Center.

SCHOOL GRADES IN FOR 2024-25, ‘KEEP UP THE MOMENTUM’

Hillsborough County school officials announced “a strong upward trajectory in student achievement,” given the state’s release of school grades for the 2024-25 school year.

“These achievements are a result not only of the hard work of our students, teachers, support professionals, and school administrators, but also of our laser-like focus on high-quality core instruction in every classroom and intentional progress monitoring to drive these impressive results,” said Van Ayres, Hillsborough County School District superintendent. “We are ready to build on this momentum.”

It’s important to note that the assessment system for Florida schools has undergone significant changes from 202324 to the 2024-25 school year. There now are five achievement components and four learning gains components, as well as components for middle school acceleration, graduation rate and college and career acceleration.

Highlights for southeast county schools include one letter upgrade for five of the area’s 12 district-operated high schools. Jumping from B to A, Riverview and Strawberry Crest in Plant City. From C to B, Armwood in Seffner and Lennard in Ruskin. Also reported, steady A grades for Bloomingdale and Newsome; steady B’s, for Durant (Plant City), East Bay (Gibsonton), Spoto (Riverview) and Plant City High; and steady C’s, for Brandon and Sumner (Balm/Riverview).

Overall, Hillsborough has 28 district-operated high schools. Morgan High debuts in Wimauma this year.

Meanwhile, 15 of the 39 district-operated middle schools are in the Osprey Observer circulation area. Grade-changers among them included Mulrennan, up from B to A, and Burnett and Turkey Creek, up

HIGH SCHOOLS

Riverview High School

Strawberry Crest High School

Bloomingdale High School

Newsome High School

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Barrington Middle School

Mulrennan Middle School

Randall Middle School

PK-8 / K-8

Apollo Beach K-8

York Innovation Academy K-8

ELEMENTARY CHOOLS

Alafia Elementary

Bevis Elementary

Boyette Springs Elementary

Brooker Elementary

FishHawk Creek Elementary

Lithia Springs Elementary

Stowers Elementary

Valrico Elementary

Walden Lakes Elementary

CHARTER SCHOOLS

Bell Creek Academy

Riverview Academy High School

Riverview Academy of Math and Science

Valrico Lake Advantage Academy

Winthrop Charter School

from D to C. Progress Village dropped from B to C. Holding steady with A grades, Barrington and Randall; with a B grade, Burns; and with C grades, Dowdell, Eisenhower, Giunta, Mann, Marshall, Rodgers, Shields and Tomlin.

Of the 14 district-operated schools that serve students in kindergarten or pre-kindergarten through grade 8, Apollo Beach

and nearby York Innovation Academy maintained their A grades; Collins, in Riverview, dropped from A to B.

As for district-operated elementary schools, 36 received an A, including Alafia, Bevis, Boyette Springs, Brooker, FishHawk Creek, Lithia Springs, Stowers and Valrico. Walden Lakes in Plant City also made the list, jumping from B to A.

Among the 13 district-operated elementary schools jumping from a C grade to B were Sessums, Summerfield and Symmes elementary schools. Four schools dropped from an A to B, including the one school locally, Brooker Elementary.

In addition to the 27 schools that received B grades districtwide, the majority of elementary schools received C grades. That amounted to 61 schools, including Kingswood, Mango, Palm River, Schmidt, Summerfield Crossing and Yates. All six elementary schools that dropped from a B

By Linda Chion

grade to C were in Southeast Hillsborough County. Dropping to a C were Belmont, Limona, Lincoln, Mintz, Nelson and Seffner. Rounding out the list, five schools countywide received a D grade, including Wimauma, which dropped two grades from a B.

For the 48 charter schools, or schools not operated by the district, 18 scored an A, 16 scored a B, and 12 scored a C. There was one D school (Kids Community College Riverview Southeast) and one F school (Walton Academy). The Patricia J. Sullivan Metropolitan Ministries Partnership School earned its first A grade since opening its doors in 1998, to 28 children living in the Metropolitan Ministries homeless shelter in Tampa.

Local A-grade charter schools are Riverview Academy High School, Riverview Academy of Math and Science, Winthrop Charter School, Valrico Lake Advantage Academy and Bell Creek Academy.

Local B-grade charter schools are RCMA Wimauma Community Academy, Kids Community College Riverview South (K-12), Creekside Charter Academy, Independence Academy, Waterset Charter School, Winthrop College Prep Academy, Southshore Charter Academy and Navigator Academy of Leadership Valrico. Also, Literacy Leadership Technology Academy South.

Local C-grade charter schools are Advantage Academy of Hillsborough, Bridgeprep Academy of Riverview, SLAM Academy at Apollo Beach, Bridgeprep Academy of Advanced Studies of Hillsborough and Pivot Charter School.

To review and learn more about school grade assessment, and the factors that help decide them, visit https://www.fldoe. org/accountability/accountability-reporting/school-grades/.

AFTER GLOW AESTHETIC & WELLNESS MEDICAL SPA WITH HEART & BEAUTY

After Glow Aesthetic & Wellness is more than just a medical spa, they build lasting relationships with their clients and give back to the community.

With services like Botox, weight loss treatments, and laser hair removal, After Glow Aesthetic & Wellness focuses on rejuvenation treatments that both improve clients’ day-to-day life and help them feel beautiful without going “overboard” on augmentation and treatments.

Hormone replacement, for example, can help clients improve sleep and energy.

Not every client will find what they are looking for, though. Sometimes clients expect to look like a celebrity or augment their appearance unrealistically.

Sunni Moreno, Registered Nurse Anesthesiologist and Chief Executive Officer, explained that she tries to learn what clients love about themselves. If they cannot find anything they love about themselves, nothing the medical spa could do would help them feel better in their bodies.

Moreno’s goal is not to take advantage

By Mylena C. Ferman

of people’s body dysmorphia but to help people feel good in their own skin.

“It’s not just a dollar sign to me,” Moreno said.

This philosophy also extends into popular trends and treatments. After Glow Aesthetic & Wellness does extensive research and education into new treatment methods before offering them.

Additionally, the entire team attends various conferences throughout the year to continue education in the field.

“I have a wonderful team that helps me be able to do all the things in my life,” Moreno said.

She spends her time outside work with her family and in the community. Like Moreno, the After Glow Aesthetic & Wellness team values philanthropy. They recently passed out school supplies to over 550 local teachers at Back-to-School events.

“Anytime we see a need, we try to fill a need,” Moreno said about her and her team.

Moreno still works as an anesthesiologist at a local hospital. Her brother and sister inspired her careers in medicine and aesthetics, respectively. Her brother was born ill, and her sister had a love of aesthetics.

“Everybody, I believe, is created beautifully just the way they are,” Moreno said.

For more information about After Glow Aesthetic & Wellness, visit their website www.glowwiththebest.com, call them at (813) 344-5511, or follow the After Glow Aesthetics Facebook page.

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 E. Bloomingdale Ave. Valrico.. For more information, or to schedule a tour, call (813) 603-9340

Callie Rivera, Sunni Moreno and Nicole Kimbal, three members of the After Glow Aesthetic Team.

North Star Consulting Offers Career Consulting For Students

North Star Consulting offers private, oneon-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 www.northstarconsultings. com.

Group is faith-based and operates with unmatched integrity. It is located at 13131 Kings Lake Dr., Ste. 103, in Gibsonton, and it looks forward to guiding your family through growth and change. For more information, visit its website at www.meisterlawgroup.com.

Meister Law Group LLC

Meister Law Group LLC offers expertise in all aspects of family law, with emphasis on adoption law and dependency cases throughout Florida’s Southshore area and beyond. For all of your family needs, including, but not limited to, expert adoption and advocacy services, Meister Law Group is here for you. Meister Law Group advocates for your family, whatever that dynamic may look like. There is no situation too complex for it. Meister Law

Alaska Travel Seminar

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 destinations in the world.

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 first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this seminar will help you turn your Alaska dreams into a reality.

CMIT IT 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/.

GTE Financial Promotes Laurie Newman To Assistant Vice President Of General Accounting

GTE Financial, one of Florida’s largest credit unions, recently announced the promotion of Laurie Newman to assistant vice president of general accounting. The promotion reflects Newman’s 18 years of exemplary service, leadership and innovation within the organization, which serves more than 230,000 members across Tampa Bay.

Newman joined GTE Financial in 2007 as an accounting supervisor and quickly rose through the ranks, serving as accounting manager and, most recently, as senior accounting manager. Known for her integrity and operational excellence, Newman has helped strengthen the credit union’s financial foundation while inspiring those around her.

“This promotion is a reflection of Laurie’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence and our culture of growing talent from within,” said Rolfe Thompson, vice president of finance and controller at GTE Financial.

Trusted Women’s Care

To Support a Healthier Her

Laurie Newman, recently promoted to assistant vice president of general accounting at GTE Financial.

Jennifer Meister is the owner of Meister Law Group, which specializes in all aspects of family law.

THE ANGEL FOUNDATION’S 20TH ANNUAL EVENING OF HOPE GALA

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/.

LOCALLY OWNED HIMES BREAKFAST HOUSE OPENS IN WINTHROP

By Jane Owen

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-

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.

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