Osprey Observer April Bloomingdale: FishHawk

than 12,000 animals world-class coasters, Gardens® Tampa Bay both animal lovers seekers alike.

BRING YOUR QUARTER FOR A CART AND YOUR GROCERY BAGS AS ALDI OPENS NEWEST STORE IN FISHHAWK

Staff Report

BLOOMINGDALE GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

By Nick Nahas

Camp: K-12th

The wait is almost over. Aldi is bringing its signature low-cost grocery experience to FishHawk Ranch, with the grand opening of its newest location scheduled for Thursday, April 3. The store, located at 16751 FishHawk Blvd., is the fifth Aldi in the area, joining Riverview, Big Bend Road, Brandon and Plant City in offering affordable, high-quality groceries to the community.

NOW

Aldi at FishHawk Ranch will open to the public on Thursday, April 3, after a 9 a.m. ribbon-cutting.

The grand opening festivities will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. on April 3, just 30 minutes before the store opens its doors to the public. To make the occasion even more exciting, the first 100 customers will receive a special ticket, with a chance to win up to $100 in Aldi gift cards. Additionally, customers will be gifted an eco-friendly bag filled with Aldi products.

In celebration of the new store, a special ‘sneak peek’ event will take place the day before, on Wednesday, April 2. Shoppers will be able to fully explore the store and purchase their favorite Aldi products in advance of the official opening.

“At our new Lithia ALDI store, shoppers will find that every decision we make, from our product selection to store layout, is to provide our customers with the best products at the lowest possible prices of any national grocer,” said Matt Thon, regional vice president for ALDI. “Our customers can save up to 36% on an average household’s shopping list*. As shoppers look for better ways to stretch their dollar, ALDI is providing Lithia with easier access to quality groceries at affordable prices.”

During opening weekend, customers

will also have the opportunity to win a $500 Aldi gift card, with an entry available by scanning a code in-store between April 3 and April 6.

The FishHawk location is the latest expansion for Aldi, bringing it one step closer to achieving its goal of opening 800 stores nationwide by the end of 2028, delivering more savings to communities across the country.

Aldi’s success is built on its no-frills shopping model, which focuses on offering high-quality groceries at low prices. The store is stocked with exclusive, private-label brands that deliver premium quality at up to 50 percent less than national brands. Aldi keeps costs down by eliminating unnecessary extras, such as elaborate displays and add-on services like banks and pharmacies.

In addition to its affordable pricing, Aldi is known for its commitment to quality. And if customers aren’t completely satisfied, Aldi offers a Double Guarantee: it will replace the product and refund the purchase price.

The new Aldi in FishHawk Ranch takes up approximately half of the former Winn-Dixie space, with 20,661 square feet of the 44,075 square-foot building still available for lease. The store underwent a $10 million renovation to bring the Aldi shopping experience to the area.

The FishHawk Aldi will be open from 9 a.m.-8 p.m., seven days a week. For those who prefer shopping from home, Aldi offers pickup and delivery services through Instacart. Visit https://shop.aldi.us/.

The Bloomingdale High School girls’ basketball program has become a juggernaut in Hillsborough County. The Lady Bulls have reached the state final four in three of the last four seasons.

In March, the team won the program’s first basketball state championship in school history, defeating Southridge 43-41 in Lakeland.

“I was just in disbelief,” said head coach Joel Bower. “I turned to my assistant coaches and asked, ‘Did that really happen? Is this really happening?’ It just didn’t seem real. I watched the girls celebrate like they hadn’t all year. I watched the joy, I watched kids cry that I’ve never seen cry, I just took in them embracing each other. My favorite part was watching them enjoy it.”

Bloomingdale reached the 6A state championship last season for the first time in team history but fell a little short after going undefeated until that point. The four returning players felt that there was some unfinished business. Bower said that they went into the last offseason highly motivated to win that one final game. Each time in the last three appearances at the final four, the team won one more game and went a step closer.

The Lady Bulls faced some adversity along the way, losing four in a row and five out of seven games in the middle of the season against really tough opponents. The team put together a more challenging schedule than last season in order to become more battle-tested. The strategy paid off with the team winning their last 12 games in a row to finish the season. Bower said that it took a little while for the team to gel, but they started to put it all together at the start of regionals.

“In the semifinal and state final, I just feel like everybody was doing whatever they could to help us win,” said Bower. “I think

I said it after the game, they were doing championship things. They took it to another level; it was really cool to see.”

The team returned four players from last year’s team and had a total of six seniors. Seniors Noelle Mengle and Izellah Kendrick have been with the program for the last four seasons and are a part of the winningest class in program history, going 10615. Both players have been a huge key to their team’s success. Kendrick has over 1,000 career points and Mengle, a University of Tampa signee, broke the program record for most career points. The duo became the fifth and sixth 1,000-point scorers in team history.

“This championship was deserved and worked for for years by the players that came before us and created the work ethic and culture that is carried over into our team today,” said Mengle. “I hope our championship has created a lasting legacy and impact on the basketball program.” Bower, who has coached the program for 14 seasons, said that the last four seasons led to the culmination of winning the state championship. He said the legacy of these seniors will never be forgotten.

“They accomplished something that has never been done in school history,” said Bower. “They’ll never forget Saturday, they’ll never forget it. They’re being treated like royalty right now, the celebration is continuing and I’m just enjoying seeing them get all the accolades.”

Photo courtesy of Nicole Ferrante.

The Lady Bulls won the Bloomingdale High School girls’ basketball program’s first basketball state championship in school history, defeating Southridge 43-41 in Lakeland.

BEVIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

Bevis Elementary School marked a significant milestone this year, celebrating its 25th anniversary with a festive event that highlighted the school’s rich history, its exceptional leadership and the lasting impact of its dedicated educators. The celebration, which brought together current students, staff, alumni and the community, honored the school’s growth and its commitment to academic excellence.

The theme for this year’s anniversary, ‘Still Blazing a Trail Through the 21st Century,’ was a nod to the school’s inaugural theme, a reflection of its continuous dedication to innovation and progress since its founding in 1998. The event showcased the legacy of Bevis Elementary as one of the top schools in the county and state.

The anniversary celebration kicked off with an inspiring performance by the Bevis ORFF musical percussion group, followed by a warm welcome from current Principal Rebecca Reeve, who has been part of the Bevis community since 2013 and assumed the role of principal in 2018. Cub Scout Pack 632 presented the colors, and the Bevis Chorus performed the national anthem, setting a patriotic tone for the occasion.

Reeve addressed the audience, thanking the community for its unwavering support and celebrating the school’s many accomplishments. She introduced Dr. Beverly Carbaugh, Bevis’s charter principal, who spoke fondly of the school’s founding vision and the incredible journey it has had over the last 25

Staff Report

years. Throughout its history, Bevis Elementary has had four principals who have shaped its direction. Dr. Carbaugh served as the school’s first principal until 2004, followed by Trish Simonsen, who led the school until 2013. Melanie Cochrane then took the reins until 2018, and today Reeve continues to lead the school toward greater heights.

A special highlight of the event was recognizing the six teachers who have been with Bevis since its opening. These educators, including Michele Batchelder, Elaine Boone, Leigh Crosson, Ashley Dukes, Timothy Filipek and Michele Wolfe, continue to make an impact on the students they teach and mentor each day.

In addition, Reeve called up Dr. Carbaugh for a special recognition in the renaming of the media center to the Dr. Beverly Carbaugh Media Center.

Bevis Elementary’s legacy of excellence is evident in its consistent A rating, and its reputation as a top-performing school in both Hillsborough County and the state of Florida. Known for its student-centered approach, innovative programs and commitment to extracurricular activities, Bevis prepares students for academic success while fostering leadership, responsibility and respect.

Located at 5720 Osprey Ridge Rd. in Lithia, Bevis Elementary has grown from a new school in 1998 into a cornerstone of the community, shaping generations of learners.

NEWSOME’S BOYS’ BASKETBALL TEAM WINS DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE

Newsome High School’s boys’ basketball team earned the top spot in the district this season, before falling short in the regional quarterfinals.

By Lily Belcher

The team had an overall season record of 24-4 and went 3-0 against district opponents.

The team is led by head coach Barry Jacobs and senior point guard Ethan Moore.

Jacobs said Moore was one of the team’s stars and has been since his freshman year.

But Jacobs’ relationship with Moore goes way back. The coach met Moore at a basketball camp when the point guard was still in middle school.

Moore exhibited strong skills. In fact, Jacobs even asked him if he wanted to play with the older athletes during the camp. But Moore wanted to spend time with his friends in his age group.

“That’s just the type of guy [Moore] is,” Jacobs said. “He’s very loyal to his friends. He enjoys playing competitively, but he also enjoys just being around his friends.”

Moore is the leading scorer in Newsome history and has earned several well-deserved awards.

The Newsome team has been district champions in three of the last four sea-

sons. Moore is the only player in the school’s history to win three district titles. The first title he won was during his freshman year, which he won alongside his older brother.

“It’s been a great year,” Jacobs said. “Obviously, winning three of the last four district titles is a great accomplishment, and we look forward to continued success.”

But this year, the team didn’t have to rely solely on Moore. Everyone from the team stepped up to spur the team to the district title.

Jacobs said they are fortunate to have several underclassmen, including a handful of seasoned sophomores, who can step into the vacancies left when this season’s seniors graduate.

While the season just ended at the beginning of February, the players are already hitting the weightroom, looking to come back even stronger next fall.

Jacobs said having a stronger team made a big difference this year and is hoping to improve on that strength.

“We must get stronger this offseason,” he said. “That’s one of my top goals for this offseason.”

Photo courtesy of Giggling Dandelion Photography.

The four principals of Bevis Elementary School gathered for the 25th anniversary event.

The boys’ basketball team is looking forward to a stronger next season after winning the district title this year.

TWO UF/IFAS-BRED STRAWBERRIES BETTER AT RESISTING NASTY PESTS

Chilli thrips plague farmers worldwide, but new research from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/ IFAS) has found two strawberry varieties that show less harm from these pests.

The finding came through research funded in part by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch program.

That’s helpful news for growers in the $400 million-a-year Florida Strawberry industry because if chilli thrips are not managed properly, they can damage up to 60 percent of a farmer’s crop.

As of last season, growers harvested 14,000 acres of strawberries in Florida. The strawberry yield per acre can be increased with better pest management decisions, scientists said.

Over the past 20 years, chilli thrips, known scientifically as Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood, has spread from Asia to Florida, Texas, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana and the northeastern United States. Among its victims: hydrangeas, peppers, eggplants, mangoes, citruses, grapes, blueberries and strawberries.

For new research, UF/IFAS scientists studied UF/IFAS-bred strawberry varieties. The study, led by doctoral student Lovely Adhikary, showed Florida Brilliance and Sweet Sensation exhibited less damage and higher marketable yield than five other UF/ IFAS-bred cultivars over three strawberry growing seasons at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center (GCREC) in Wimau-

ma.

That means if growers choose to grow Florida Brilliance and Sweet Sensation, they can use less pesticide to control the thrips, Adhikary said.

Still, Sriyanka Lahiri, an assistant professor of entomology at GCREC, cautioned that growers must continue to use integrated pest management to control chilli thrips, particularly because the study showed several strawberry cultivars that are still highly susceptible to the pests.

“The new finding is important to both growers and the UF/IFAS strawberry breeding program because now producers know that if they grow a certain strawberry, they may have to be more proactive regarding chilli thrips management,” said Lahiri, who serves as Adhikary’s faculty advisor. “They’ll have to utilize integrated pest management techniques because chemical control alone is not an effective tool to manage this pest.”

Kenneth Parker, executive director of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, called the new findings “critically important,” especially as UF/IFAS strawberry breeders, including Vance Whitaker, try to find the genetic markers for host plant resistance.

About UF/IFAS

The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. Staff Report

THREE BULLS TAVERN & BREWERY PARTNERS WITH THE RAPTOR CENTER OF TAMPA BAY

Birds of a feather flock together.

Tracy Mellody and Nancy Murrah share a passion — a love for the environment and caring for wildlife, especially birds.

Tracy with her husband, Jim Mellody, own Three Bulls Tavern & Brewery in Valrico. Murrah is the president of the Raptor Center of Tampa Bay. On March 8, Three Bulls partnered with the Raptor Center, bringing the nonprofit organization on-site and raising funds for it.

By Jane Owen

like-minded people makes a difference for the good of wildlife. She appreciates both the monetary support and the opportunity to educate the public on the conservation of wildlife.

The Raptor Center rescues, treats and rehabilitates about 1,000 birds and other animals each year with the goal of releasing them back into the wild.

The center brought a red-tailed hawk named Zoe; two eastern screen owls named Carmen and Baby; its educational Magical Bird Bus, which was outfitted with an ocean conservation theme; and educational ambassadors who answered questions and shared information about birds of prey. The community had the unique opportunity to observe and see the birds of prey up close.

Tracy was raised by parents who instilled the importance of a love of nature. She became a member of the Audubon Society in the 1990s. As a business owner, she is thrilled to support the Raptor Center.

“I have a platform from which I can help. When you see a turn out like we had on Saturday, it’s so heartening,” Tracy said.

Murrah said that partnering with

Three Bulls donated 15 percent of the proceeds generated during the three hours of the event, and Jim and Tracy matched the donation. With additional community donations, the fundraising total was just over $2,600.

“We did double what we usually do for lunch. It was a great turnout. It was beneficial for both us and them. Our community is incredibly supportive,” Tracy said.

“We appreciate the invaluable support provided by Tracy and Jim at Three Bulls Tavern. It is one of our largest fundraisers and allows us to make a positive impact on wildlife,” Murrah said.

Rehabilitating birds of prey is not an inexpensive endeavor. The food bill alone runs between $700 and $1,400 a week.

To learn more about the Raptor Center of Tampa Bay, its educational bus that can visit your organization and how to donate, visit www.raptorcenteroftampabay.org or call 813-205-1851.

Three Bulls Tavern & Brewery is located at 4330 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico. To see its menu, visit the website direct at www.threebullstavernandbrewery.com.

emailmmartin@riverhillscountryclub

Suzy Buchanan, Three Bulls Tavern & Brewery owner Tracy Mellody and Whitney Erb with eastern screech owls Carmen and Baby at Three Bulls on March 8.

Courtesy, UF/IFAS photography.

Sriyanka Lahiri, a UF/IFAS assistant professor of entomology at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center.

By Newsome High School

Newsome High School students demonstrated exceptional talent and hard work at the Hillsborough Regional Science and Engineering Fair, with several students earning top awards and recognition for their innovative STEM projects. Two projects represented Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) at the prestigious 70th annual Florida State Science and Engineering Fair.

Top Honors at the Regional Fair:

• Arjun Suresh took home the Yale Science & Engineering Association Award and secured first place in the Senior Mathematics & Computational Sciences category with his groundbreaking project, ‘Quantifying Regional Perfusion Alterations Induced by High Versus Low Radiation Doses and Their Correlation with Left Ventricle Ejection Fraction in Breast Cancer Patients.’

• Mya Sullivan and Charles McGinn earned second place in the Senior Physics and Astronomy category for their innovative project, ‘Design and construction of a homemade spectrometer for analyzing light sources.’

Other Award Winners:

• Casey Ayres won the prestigious National Geographic Education Award and placed second in the Senior Engineering category with her project, ‘Designing an Adaptive Suspension System to Improve the Exploration Range of Mars Rovers,’ which highlights

the challenges of space exploration and offers a potential solution to improve rover capabilities.

• Kush Gulati earned the Dr. Carl Riggs Memorial Award and placed third in the Senior Earth & Environmental Sciences category with his project, ‘A Comparative Analysis of Climate Change Related Anthropogenic Factors Including Temperature, Ocean Acidification, and Storm Intensity on Newly Outplanted Corals for Enhanced Coral Reef Restoration.’

A special thanks goes to their dedicated faculty mentors — Bryan Kelly, James Podd, Alice Rutland and Julie Wernicki — who guided these young minds throughout their research journeys.

Regional Science Olympiad Success

The Newsome STEM Club also triumphed at the Regional Science Olympiad held at Hillsborough Community College (HCC).

First-place Winners:

Fossils: Casey Ayres and Isabel Leung.

Geologic Mapping: Casey Ayres and Michael Leifer.

Write It, Do It: Alina Jacob and Yali Gordin.

Second-place Winners: Astronomy: Charles McGinn and Kyle Wissinger. Dynamic Planet: Casey Ayres and Charles McGinn.

Third-place Winner: Robot Tour: Casey Ayres and Isabel Leung.

These outstanding achievements are a testament to the hard work and determination of Newsome’s students. Special thanks go to Alice Rutland, who supervised the students at the University of South Florida while STEM Club sponsor Brian Clark was attending the Science Olympiad at HCC.

By Nitish Rele

Any road, anytime, anywhere. That’s how Ford has summed up the Explorer in the past. Whether you are testing its off-road prowess or on-road capability, this fine, hot-selling, threerow SUV has you covered. Available as a frontwheel or rear-wheel drive, the Explorer is offered as a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine or a 3-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine. Ours was the latter, putting out an astonishing 400 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 415 pounds-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. As you can see, that’s enough of a choice to ‘explore’ the horizon. Its crisp-shifting, 10-speed auto gear box is smooth and efficient. In fact, for a vehicle that weighs over 4,300 pounds, this Ford moves with remarkable agility and sure-footedness. Some of the credit goes to the MacPherson strut front and independent multilink rear suspension. For an excellent on-center response, the SUV is equipped with electric power steering, making it effortless to dodge sharp and sudden turns on the road. If you are looking to haul a small boat to the beach during those warm months, then count on a 5,000-pound tow capacity. And for that long trip up, you can securely select eco, sport, tow, normal, slippery and trail.

EXPLORER (PLATINUM)

Tires: 275/45/R21

Wheelbase: 119.1 inches

Fuel capacity:

The Explorer sports a robust but pleasingto-the-eye appearance, thanks to sleeker LED headlights that surround a now-larger satin chrome/black grille, front skid plate and wider air curtain. But what we found even more appealing is ‘EXPLORER’ embossed in the lift gate applique. It truly stands out. We found the interior to be good-looking with plenty of comforts and stylish accruements, from silver mesh accents to Mojave Dusk leather, in the Platinum trim. Though man-

ual, the robust tilt/telescopic steering column in the base trim is functional. Need to access the third-row power/ fold 50/50 seat? That should be trouble-free with the second-row captain’s chairs moving forward for stress-free ingress/egress. No one can quibble about the massive 13.2-inch inch touch screen, which displays audio, phone and navigation controls. We liked the sizable volume knob in the center stack.

And Ford Digital Experience integrates your apps, Google Maps/Play and Alexa, along with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto to synch phones.

The standard Ford Co-Pilot 360 bundles together driver-assist safety features, such as a blind-spot monitor with cross-traffic alert, precollision assist and lane-keep aid with auto emergency brake, auto high beams, rear park sensors, adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera. Also included are dual front and side airbags, front knee airbags, side curtain airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic stability and traction control, front and rear three-point seatbelts, a tire pressure monitor and daytime running lights. If you like hands-free highway driving, the BlueCruise feature (spans over 130,000 miles in the U.S.) will put your mind to rest covering those long distances.

Three decades old and into its sixth generation, the Ford Explorer has apparently withstood the test of time despite numerous new SUVs flooding the market. An accommodating cabin, athletic looks and array of power trains and models (Active, ST-Line, ST, Platinum) are further incentive to sign on the dotted line.

Notice For Action Of Dissolution Of Marriage Walter Tyler

You are notified that an action of dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and you have until April 28, 2025 to respond. Send all responses to:

Hillsborough County Courthouse 300 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602

HONORING OUR YOUNGEST HEROES: CELEBRATING THE MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD

Each April, we celebrate the Month of the Military Child to honor the strength, resilience and sacrifices of military-connected stu dents. These incredible children serve in their own way — navigating frequent relocations, long separa tions from loved ones and the unique challenges of military life. While every military child’s journey is different, they are united by shared experiences that span the globe.

In Hillsborough County Public Schools, we are proud to sup port more than 4,000 military-connected stu dents. Our schools play a vital role in ensuring these students receive the stability, encouragement and resources they need to thrive academically and emotionally.

By Superintendent Van Ayres

counselors provide specialized support to ease transitions, whether students are adjusting to a new school or coping with a parent’s deployment. Additionally, we collaborate with MacDill Air Force Base and local military organizations to ensure families have access to essential resources.

Thanks to this strong support system, many of our schools have been designated as Florida Purple Star Campuses — a distinction awarded by the Florida Legislature to schools that go above and beyond to serve military families.

Throughout April, our schools host special activities to recognize and celebrate military children. One of the most meaningful traditions is Purple Up! Day — a day when students, teachers and staff wear purple as a symbol of unity and support. Schools also organize assemblies, recognition ceremonies, classroom discussions and creative projects to highlight the sacrifices and contributions of military families.

Our commitment to military-connected students continues year-round. School

In December 2024, we proudly added four more schools to our growing list: Sumner High School, Riverview High School, Kenneth E. Adum K-8 Magnet School, and Lithia Springs Elementary School. This brings our total to 25 Purple Star Schools! We are so proud of the work of our school communities to achieve this recognition.

I encourage our entire community to join us in recognizing the resilience of military children. Let’s Purple Up! on Friday, April 11, and honor the families who stand strong behind our service members every day.

To learn more the resources available to our military families visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/militaryfamilies.

As the State Attorney in Hillsborough County, I meet with crime victims and their families every single day. It is my mission to make sure they feel supported and heard throughout the entire legal process. That is why every April, my office takes part in National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW). This year, it will be honored from Sunday through Saturday, April 6-12, and we will have new and impactful ways to connect with survivors to ensure they have the resources they need on the path to healing.

er you are a victim of domestic violence, property fraud, or you’ve lost someone to homicide, this toolkit will provide helpful information for you and your family.

On Wednesday, April 9, my office will hold our second annual Victims’ Resource Fair at the University of Tampa’s Vaughn Center, located at 200 UT Poe Parkway in Tampa, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. This event will bring together our incredible community partners to offer victims help and guidance. We know how scary it can be to become a victim of crime, and we want you to know there are resources in the community to help you navigate this difficult time. We are also working to improve the victim experience by unveiling a Victim Toolkit. This new area on our website will act as a ‘one-stop shop’ for survivors that will help prepare them for the legal process and to provide help. Wheth -

It is my mission to make victims and their families feel supported once their case reaches our office. In fact, I meet personally with every single family who has lost a loved one to homicide or traffic homicide. We grieve with you, and we stand with you in the fight for justice. It is important to know that if you are a crime victim, there is year-round support from our Victim Assistance Program. You are entitled to a victim advocate who can help navigate the process and even accompany you to court hearings. If you or someone you know is a victim of a crime, call the Victim Assistance Program at 813-272-6472.

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

State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

From left to right: Amber Cronin, Lithia Springs Elementary School principal; Elizabeth Dowdy, Lithia Springs third grade teacher; and Barbara Mittelstadt, Lithia Springs fourth grade teacher.

By State Attorney Suzy Lopez

Tony Baroni

had a bad experience buying his first home and was stuck in a stressful career he didn’t love.

Despite the bad experience, he had fallen in love with the process of buying and selling houses and saw real estate as a job he could truly excel in.

By Lily Belcher

So, he went to real estate school and jumped into his career in real estate in 2005.

“I felt like I had a good handle on providing a great service and making sure the customer is happy at the end of the day,” Baroni said.

Now, Baroni is the CEO of the Tony Baroni Team with Keller Williams.

“I liked what their mission was, which is God, family and business — in that order,” he said about why he joined Keller Williams.

Keller Williams is also one of the top training companies in the world, which helped guide Baroni in his career change and the building of a successful team.

When Baroni isn’t working, he coaches youth sports and spends time with his family.

Baroni’s team does more than just help you buy or sell your home; it promises to positively impact lives and build loyal relationships with its customers.

When he was building his team, he looked for people who prioritized care.

He knew he could teach real estate sales skills but couldn’t teach his agents how to care for their customers.

One of the team’s core focuses is giving back to the community. In 2007, the group started donating part of their commissions to local charities.

They also started a Call in to Win campaign with giveaways with community winners.

“We’re donating to charity, we’re also doing cool giveaways for people to participate in and the long play is for people to impact the community and help more people,” he said.

The Tony Baroni Team gets nearly 80 percent of its business from customer referrals who have had great experiences working with Baroni’s agents.

Tampa Bay Real Producers and the Tampa Bay Business Journal ranked Baroni’s the top team in 2024 across multiple counties.

“It’s all about hiring great people,” he said.

For more information on the Tony Baroni Team or to contact an agent to help buy or sell a home, visit www.tonybaroni.com.

The Tony Baroni team prioritizes hiring agents who care about their customers and community.

by Jack Hanna!

TORIN MARTIAL ARTS FOSTERS INCLUSION, COMMUNITY AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

April is widely recognized as Autism Awareness Month. However, in 2021, National Autism Awareness Month was changed to Autism Acceptance Month. The purpose has remained the same — fostering understanding, acceptance and inclusion for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The goal is to move beyond simply raising awareness to meaningful acceptance, inclusion and celebration of neurodiversity. In Valrico, Torin Martial Arts Academy is accomplishing that mission every day.

By Jane Owen

By Marie Gilmore

turn of events, her son, Clayton, was diagnosed with level 2 autism. Amanda became a clinical autism specialist and returned to martial arts, becoming an adaptive personal trainer.

Torin Martial Arts Academy opened in December and is owned by Adrian and Amanda Torin. They have a passion for inclusion for all individuals, whether neurotypical or neurodivergent.

Adrian has over 20 years of experience training and studying martial arts disciplines. Amanda began her career with a degree in speech pathology. She worked at a high school as a speech-language pathology assistant and developed a deep passion for working with individuals with disabilities, specifically those with autism. She followed her heart and earned a master’s in applied behavior analysis with an autism certification. In what one might consider an ironic

“It is so beneficial for any neurodivergent individual. Often, they lack fine and gross motor skills and coordination. Martial arts really helps with coordination and focus,” Amanda said.

Individuals with ASD have different sensory needs. Torin Martial Arts modifies and adapts to meet those needs. Since opening, it has students who started in a one-on-one class and are now with other students.

Everyone is welcome at Torin. The youngest client is 3 years old, and the oldest client is in their 40s. The classes are traditional karate style and kickboxing. It also trains and has students compete as part of the International Karate Sport League.

Amanda says that if you have not tried martial arts, you should. “It is physical fitness. It is good for self-defense. You will learn new skills and have fun,” Amanda said. Torin Martial Arts Academy is located at 3646 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. To find out more about all it offers, visit https:// torinmartialarts.com/, email torinmaa@ gmail.com or call 813-402-4045.

On the second Thursday of every month, young artists come together for a 90-minute session to create seasonal artwork at Grace at Lithia Church on Lithia Pinecrest Road. Led by watercolor artist Carol McSpadden, the free art classes provide children with the opportunity to explore their creativity using canvases, paints, brushes and their imagination.

McSpadden, who has been offering these classes for over a year, started them as a way to share her artistic talents and give back to the community through her church.

“I love to paint; I’ve been painting my whole life,” McSpadden said.

While she works with various mediums, watercolor is her preferred medium.

second Thursday of each

Each month, from 5-6:30 p.m., children gather to paint and create. In March, the theme was spring, and students had the option to freehand, draw or trace images before selecting a color palette for their paintings. The class provides all materials and brushes, allowing each child to make their masterpiece. After the children’s session, McSpadden teaches an adult art class from 7-8:30 p.m.

“Adults usually focus more on techniques, while kids are more spontaneous and creative,” she explained.

McSpadden, a retired elementary teacher, enjoys seeing her local grandchildren participate. They are frequent attendees at her classes, and their artwork adorns a wall in their home.

“I’ve always had a passion for art, having taken many art courses in college,” said McSpadden, who spent 34 years as a kindergarten-through-second-grade teacher.

“This class is my way of sharing art with the community.”

Though McSpadden enjoys working with oil paints, acrylics and pastels, she has a special fondness for watercolor.

“Watercolor allows for so many techniques and lets me create very detailed work,” she said.

Her high school-age granddaughter, Rori, often helps during the classes.

“I love art and painting, and I enjoy helping the kids,” said Rori as she refilled the students’ water cups during a session.

The next class is scheduled for Thursday, April 10, at 5 p.m. for children and at 7 p.m. for adults. The sessions take place at Grace at Lithia Church, located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. No experience is required, and all supplies are provided. Donations are welcome to help cover material costs. To reserve a spot, text 813-956-7144.

Artist Carol McSpadden leads free art classes on the

month at Grace at Lithia Church. Lithia resident Rhett Gilmore created a springthemed painting during the March session.

Torin Owners Amanda and Adrian Torin

FISHHAWK RANCH AUTHOR

By Lily Belcher

FishHawk Ranch author Martha O’Sullivan released her fifth book in February after finally pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming an author.

Her latest book, Sierra Falls, takes place, like her other books, at Lake Tahoe, California, and follows a brokenhearted widow falling into unexpected love. All of O’Sullivan’s contemporary romance books conclude with a happy ending, just as the books she likes reading do.

publishing her work and marketing it.

“I gave up for a while, to be honest,” she admitted.

But she turned to self-publishing and now has her stand-alone novels available as e-books and paperbacks.

She writes a lot on her lanai at her home in FishHawk Ranch, something she said helps inspire her and prevent writer’s block.

“I write a lot of books that I liked reading when I was growing up,” she said.

O’Sullivan, who was born in Chicago, Illinois, moved to Florida, where she is living out her own happy ending with her husband and daughters.

“I’ve always liked the central love story and happily-ever-after ending,” she said. She had always wanted to be an author and finally began writing her first book — Second Chance — in 2020. Since then, she has self-published five books in the span of four-and-a-half years.

All of her books are based at Lake Tahoe, which O’Sullivan visited over a decade before she set her first novel in the city. She said the biggest challenge has been

While her first three books — Second Chance, Chance Encounter and Last Chance — are a trilogy, they can be read in any order. Her fourth book is holiday-themed, titled Christmas in Tahoe

O’Sullivan isn’t working on her next book yet, but she is focusing on marketing her current novels.

“I definitely had a huge learning curve,” she said.

She attended college for public relations but is self-taught when it comes to writing books.

“Writing books and getting them out is probably, next to being a mom, the greatest learning experience of my life,” she said.

O’Sullivan’s five books are available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million and Kindle, among other sites.

To learn more about O’Sullivan or to purchase her contemporary romance novels, visit www.marthaosullivan.com.

FishHawk Ranch resident Martha O’Sullivan published her fifth novel, Sierra Falls, in February.

On Saturday, May 3, the Campo Family YMCA will host the annual Jackie Okun TRY-athlon, an event dedicated to raising funds for swimming lesson scholarships for local children.

The event will mark the third anniversary of the tragic loss of Jackie Okun, a longtime athlete and community leader. In April 2022, just days after her 67th birthday, Okun was struck and killed by a vehicle while on her morning run.

In honor of Okun’s legacy as both a teacher and advocate for physical fitness, her friends from the local running community and Campo Y have organized this special event. Held on National Fitness Day, May 3, the TRY-athlon is designed to raise money for the Jackie Okun Memorial Fund, which provides swimming lessons for local elementary school children.

“Her friends in the local running community and Campo Y have created something that honors her life as a teacher and physical fitness proponent,” said Alex Stefanes, YMCA coordinator.

Modeled after a traditional triathlon, the TRY-athlon incorporates swimming, biking and running — activities that

Okun loved. However, the event offers a fun twist: rather than a competitive race, participants will complete each triathlon segment at a relaxed pace, making the event accessible to all fitness levels. The goal is for participants to try new forms of exercise and experience the joy of fitness outside their comfort zone. Competitive athletes are welcome too.

The event will take place entirely on the Campo Y grounds, with each phase of the triathlon lasting approximately 20 minutes, and the entire experience taking about an hour.

After completing the TRY-athlon, participants will have the opportunity to reflect on Okun’s impact on the community, both as a teacher and through her dedication to the Y.

Registration is $35 per athlete and is now open, and donations to the Jackie Okun Memorial Fund are also encouraged.

Join in on May 3 for a day of fitness, remembrance and community at Campo Y, located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. For more information or to sponsor, participate or volunteer, you can register at the Campo Family YMCA or contact alex.stefanes@tampaymca.org. Staff Report

Bloomingdale High School softball star pitcher Natalie Cable’s goal has always been to reach 1,000 career strikeouts since she started as a freshman. She reached her goal on March 11 against Plant High School.

Reaching that marker is a rare accomplishment for a high school pitcher. Cable went into the game against Plant knowing that she had to get six strikeouts to reach 1,000. She was locked into the game and didn’t know until afterward that she hit her mark in a 7-0 victory. Her coach, Leah Pemberton, gave her the game ball after the win, and her mom let her know that she reached her goal. The team celebrated with her after the game.

“It was such a surreal moment because we’ve been talking about this since my freshman year,” said Cable. “We celebrated with the team, and I got posted about on the team Instagram page, so that was pretty exciting.”

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), signee has been playing softball since she was 6 years old.

By Nick Nahas

She comes from an athletic background. Her mom played field hockey at the University of Maryland, her dad played club rugby at the Naval Academy and her sister plays softball as well.

Cable helped lead her team to a record-breaking season last year as a junior. It was the first time in program history that the Lady Bulls went undefeated in the regular season, and it was their first regional championship since they won the state championship in 2014. She also broke the school record for most strikeouts in a season last year.

Cable has a big future ahead of her, not just involving softball. She plans to major in biochemistry and wants to attend med school at UCLA as well. Her goals for right now are to help lead her team to the state championship and win Gatorade Pitcher of the Year.

“This is a big stepping stone,” said Cable. “I’m going to college next year, so it’s really helping me prepare for the next level. It’s another milestone to get me ready for college.”

The Campo Family YMCA will host the Jackie Okun TRY-athlon on Saturday, May 3, to raise funds for swimming lesson scholarships.

Photos courtesy of the Bloomingdale High School softball team.

Natalie Cable is a University of California, Los Angeles, softball signee.

3,000+ Homes Sold | 2,700+ 5 Star Reviews

By Nick Nahas

The Bloomingdale High School Bulls came into the 44th Saladino Tournament as favorites, rated as the number one overall seed. They did not disappoint, beating Strawberry Crest 3-0 to claim the program’s fourth Saladino Tournament victory.

This was the first Saladino Tournament Championship for the Bulls since winning it in 2013. The spring break tournament now has three different divisions, Gold, Bronze and Silver. Bloomingdale was the Gold Division winner. The team won their pool, despite losing to Jefferson 6-4 earlier. They defeated Carrollwood Day 11-1 in the semifinals.

Junior outfielder Luke Long pitched a complete game after only having thrown one inning all year long before that. That performance let Bloomingdale save its star pitcher for the final game.

Co-MVP of the tournament Javier Navas-Hoyer was stellar in the championship game, pitching 6 2/3 innings, striking out 12 batters and only giving up one hit. Head coach Kris Wilken saved his ace for this particular occasion, and Navas-Hoyer was able to deliver.

“Going into that game, I really tried focusing on remembering that it was just another game,” said Navas-Hoyer. “Not making it bigger than it was but realizing the moment and knowing that I was prepared, and that

my coaches trusted me enough to save me for that specific game.”

Wilken said that the environment at the University of Tampa was electric and the crowd was loud. Catcher Vinny Dinzeo Jr. was impressed with the crowd as well.

“The moment I will remember forever is when we took the field and I could hear all the fans rooting for us and having our backs,” Dinzeo said.

Infielder Isaiah Perez gave the Bulls a spark on offense during the tournament. He had a grand slam and a two-run homer against Carrollwood Day in the semifinals. He also doubled in a run in the championship game. “My reaction when we got that last out was relieved and proud, I would say,” said Perez.

Wilken said that in order to win a tournament like this, everybody has to play well. He was happy with his team’s pitching, two-out hitting and defense in particular.

“The guys came into the tournament with a lot of confidence.,” said Wilken.

Navas-Hoyer will never forget this victory and how it felt, but he knows that the team wants to accomplish more this season.

“We’re still pushing,” said Navas-Hoyer. “Obviously, it feels great to win, but this season still has a long way to go, and I feel that we could do some really cool things this year.”

Burgess Perry is a U.S. Army veteran and the founder of PAINT CORPS of Tampa, a veteran-exclusive painting franchise. After serving in the military, Perry transitioned into business ownership and found his passion in the painting industry.

“What started as a single painting company has now grown into a thriving franchise, helping fellow veterans build successful businesses of their own,” Perry said.

“I’m all about structure, discipline and service, values I carried from the military into the business world.”

PAINT CORPS started as a single painting business in Tampa and quickly grew due to their high-quality work and professionalism. After seeing the success and demand, Perry decided to franchise in 2021 with the goal of helping other veterans transition into business ownership.

“The military gives us the discipline, leadership skills and attention to detail needed to succeed, and PAINT CORPS provides the proven system to run a thriving painting business,” Perry said. “Today, we have locations across the country, and we’re growing fast.”

PAINT CORPS is a veteran-exclusive franchise, meaning every owner is a U.S. military veteran. That alone sets it apart because veterans bring a level of integrity, reliability and professionalism that customers can trust.

By Libby Hopkins

“We also focus heavily on commercial and residential repaints, working with businesses, property managers and homeowners to deliver top-tier results,” Perry said. “Plus, we stand by our work with a military mindset; mission success is the only option.

At its Tampa location, PAINT CORPS offers a full range of services, including interior painting, exterior painting, cabinet painting, parking lot maintenance, roof coatings and epoxy coatings.

“One of the biggest things that sets us apart is our five-year free touch-up warranty; no other painting company offers this,” Perry said. “It’s just one of the ways we stand behind our work and make sure our customers get long-lasting value.”

If you ask Perry what he likes most about his job, he’ll tell you it’s working with veterans. “Hands down, the best part is helping veterans build a future for themselves and their families,” Perry said. “Business ownership can be intimidating, but with the right system and support, it’s an incredible opportunity. Seeing our franchisees grow, secure big contracts and achieve financial freedom is what drives me every day.”

If you would like to learn more about the services offered at PAINT CORPS of Tampa, you can visit its website at www.paintcorps.com/tampa-fl/ or call 813-520-6096.

This was the first Saladino Tournament championship for the Bloomingdale High School Bulls since 2013.

PAINT CORPS of Tampa started as a single painting business in Tampa and quickly grew due to its high-quality work and professionalism. It is the community’s go-to

FIELD OF HONOR CEREMONY RECOGNIZES THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE

Patriotism and honor will be on display when the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County hosts its biannual Field of Honor Remembrance Ceremony on Saturday, April 12, at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park and Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum. This poignant observance honors the brave men and women of the Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the nation.

The ceremony at the Hillsborough County Veterans Memorial Park stands as a solemn tribute to the memory of those who died while in service to their country. This event also honors the recovered remains of veterans from major conflicts such as World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. This twice-yearly ceremony takes place on the second Saturdays of April and October. Reading aloud the names of the service members who have died in the previous six months provides an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices made by them. In addition, an American flag is placed in a special receptacle for each name. The remembrance also honors those who have been missing in action (MIA) and whose remains have been recently dis-

By Brad Stager

covered. Local veterans organizations oversee the reading of the names, and members of the public are invited to participate by placing the flags.

The event is also an opportunity for Gold Star families who have lost loved ones as a result of active-duty service to be recognized through their involvement, according to a news release from the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County.

“Their participation in these remembrance ceremonies has been an inspiration to all who share in the loss of a loved one in military service to America.”

With the ceremony occurring every six months, the memory of these brave service members remains constant in the community, which is home to many veterans and active military service members.

The Hillsborough County Veterans Memorial Park is located at 3602 U.S. 301 in Tampa, just south of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

The Hillsborough County Veterans Council is made up of representatives from member veterans organizations and seeks to address problems unique to veterans in Hillsborough County.

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.

Photo courtesy of the Veterans Memorial Park and Museum Facebook page.

Patriotism and honor will be on display when the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County hosts its biannual Field of Honor Remembrance Ceremony on Saturday, April 12, at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park and Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum.

FINE ART MEETS CHAMPAGNE AT PLANT CITY’S RED CALLIOPE GALLERY AND ROUGE CHAMPAGNE BAR

Red Calliope Gallery on Evers, locally owned and operated by Rachel and Mark Dummeldinger, is a sophisticated haven where fine art meets indulgence at Rouge Champagne Bar in Plant City. Rachel is a self-taught artist, and Mark is a skilled woodcraftsman.

The couple wanted to open an art gallery and champagne bar because they wanted to establish an art community in the historic district of Plant City.

“I’ve been doing art shows for several years and tried to break into artist communities and realized a lot of the larger art communities around us have well-established art worlds,” Rachel said. “It just made sense to me to stay home and grow the community I wanted to be a part of, which to me meant assembling artist from all artforms and really celebrating the arts.”

The mission of Red Calliope Gallery is to harmonize the worlds of art creation and appreciation, fostering a vibrant ecosystem where artists thrive and collectors discover treasures.

“As a beacon of creativity and community, we are so much more than just a gallery,” Rachel said. “Our goal is to curate exceptional art and connect it with those who cherish it, all while ensuring fairness and integrity every step of the way. We believe in fair compensation for artists and fair prices for collectors, creating a symbiotic relationship where creativity flourishes and

By Libby Hopkins

appreciation deepens, with a commitment to excellence and inclusivity.”

Red Calliope Gallery on Evers is currently showcasing the works of award-winning artists. Its physical and online galleries offer the opportunity to purchase and appreciate art nationwide, with shipping available across the country. Artists are available for commissions and provide personalized consultations to bring their clients’ visions to life.

The gallery and champagne bar will officially open on Friday, March 21.

“About 13 months ago, we were at an art show in Marco Island, Florida, and the wind was blowing, and the artwork was getting pretty beat up,” Mark said. “It was at that point we decided it was time to open our own place.”

Since the couple loved all the local businesses on Evers Street in Plant City, they knew their gallery belonged on their favorite street.

“Evers Street just has a nice little vibe with Three Hands Meadery and Roots Tap Room and Wine Bar,” Mark said. “We feel Red Calliope on Evers and Rouge Champagne Bar will be a perfect fit with the community.”

The gallery is located at 109 S. Evers St. in the historic district of downtown Plant City.. For more, visit at https://redcalliope.gallery/.

MAJOR INTERSECTION OVERHAUL BEGINS

ON U.S. 301 AND GIBSONTON DRIVE, EXPECT DELAYS FOR 140 DAYS

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) began a significant intersection improvement project on U.S. 301 last week, which is expected to take roughly 140 days to complete.

FDOT’s contractor, Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, will be replacing the asphalt pavement at the U.S. 301 and Gibsonton Drive/Boyette Road intersection with concrete. Ajax will also repave U.S. 301 from Whitt Road to Rivercrest Drive.

By Brian Bokor

Motorists will need to detour around the closure using Riverview Drive, U.S. 41 and Symmes Road. Those traveling east of the intersection can use Rhodine Road, Balm Riverview Road, McMullen Road or Boyette Road as alternate routes. Access to businesses, residents and emergency vehicles will be maintained.

When complete, the intersection improvements will have two left-turn lanes from westbound Boyette Road onto southbound U.S. 301, two through lanes from westbound Boyette Road across U.S. 301 and one right-turn lane from westbound Boyette Road onto northbound U.S. 301.

Motorists should anticipate “significant traffic delays and congestions” during the project and along all nearby roads during the closure, with FDOT urging drivers to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and expect congestion, especially during peak hours.

From Kris Carson, FDOT spokesperson,

“The project is replacing asphalt with concrete due to the high volume of truck traffic. Concrete pavement will be more durable and will have a longer life than asphalt. This also reduces maintenance operations at the intersection due to the heavy volume of traffic.”

“We’re going to close Gibsonton Drive just west of U.S. 301, so if you’re traveling off I-75, you can get off the exit, but you will not be able to cross over U.S. 301. We are also reducing some of the travel lanes on U.S. 301. There’ll be only two northbound and two southbound open,” said Carson.

Once the work on the western side of the U.S. 301 intersection and southbound U.S. 301 lanes is complete, the project will then shift to the eastern half of the U.S. 301 intersection — Boyette Road — and northbound U.S. 301 lanes, where a similar process will be followed. The estimated completion date for the project is near the end of July. For more information on this project or to sign up for traffic alerts, visit www.fdottampabay.com or call 813-975-6204.

Red Calliope Gallery on Evers and Rouge Champagne Bar is opening this month.

FISHHAWK RESIDENT EMPHASIZES THE IMPORTANCE OF DONATING BLOOD

By Lily Belcher

When John-Michael Elms got home from a deployment when he was serving in the military, he would wait a year before he donated blood again. Sometimes, it would be years between when he would donate because of his deployment schedules. But, as soon as he knew he was healthy, he would donate blood.

Elms said he knows how important blood donations are to the local patients. That’s why he is organizing blood drive in FishHawk.

Every eight weeks, the time donors have to wait between donations, he has a Big Red Bus come to the Osprey Club.

“The next time we’ll be at that same location is the exact right time for you to be eligible to donate again,” he said.

As part of his effort, Elms is hoping to get more volunteers to donate blood. Right now, he has 15-20 donors each time but is hoping to get closer to 30 people coming out every eight weeks.

He said the number of donors in FishHawk is low. The number of blood donors fell during the coronavirus pandemic but hasn’t fully bounced back.

“They couldn’t crack the code on how to get people in the FishHawk-Lithia area to donate more regularly and that

kind of inspired me to try and figure out how to get more people donating in our area,” he said.

He said this is partially because the FishHawk community has a strong veteran population. Elms, who served for 27 years, was one veteran who mistakenly thought you could never donate again after you were deployed. He said that isn’t “necessarily true,” as the phlebotomy technicians just need to confirm you do not have any blood related illnesses.

He also said people are weary of needles or don’t have the 30-40 minutes it takes to donate. However, Elms emphasized the importance of this lifesaving donation.

A OneBlood spokesperson said one of the benefits blood donors can get is information on how their blood is being used and their own health statistics, as well as gift cards.

For the people who are scared of needles, he said the technicians do an amazing job drawing blood without pain or errors.

The next blood drive Elms is hosting will be on Saturday, April 26, between 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Osprey Club.

ADVENTHEALTH HELPS WOMEN FIND RELIEF FROM ENDOMETRIOSIS SYMPTOMS

Endometriosis develops when tissue that’s similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus — in places it shouldn’t be.

Endometriosis affects about 10 percent of women of reproductive age in the United States alone.

The most common symptom of endometriosis is pain during your period, and some women endure this pain for years before they finally receive a diagnosis. Other symptoms can include pain with sexual activity, pain during bowel movements, heavy periods, spotting or bleeding between your menstrual cycle and infertility.

Researchers don’t know exactly what causes endometriosis, but some of the main risk factors for the condition include starting your period at an early age, having higher levels of estrogen in your body or having shorter or longer-than-normal menstrual periods.

Whether a woman wants to become pregnant or is experiencing debilitating period pain, treatment can be a big game

changer. Sometimes, treatment can be as simple as taking overthe-counter medications to treat the pain or taking hormonal contraceptives. However, for women who experience advanced endometriosis — and whose quality of life has been impacted — surgery may be the best option.

In the past, surgeons have treated endometriosis by using heat to destroy the damaging tissue. But now, minimally invasive excision surgery is considered the best way to remove the endometrial growths, along with any scar tissue that’s formed. While the procedure is not a cure for endometriosis, it can improve your quality of life significantly.

At AdventHealth Tampa, its caring doctors understand the pain you’re experiencing and will take every possible step to help you find relief.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, visit the website directly at www.womenssurgerytampa.com.

John-Michael Elms is organizing blood drives at the Osprey Club every eight weeks.

ANNUAL FIGHT LIKE JUNE TENNIS TOURNAMENT COMMENCES IN APRIL

June Rogers and her fight against colon cancer have been an inspiration to so many people, bringing awareness to the disease. Seven of her closest friends created the June Rogers Foundation (JRF) in her honor. The organization has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for colorectal cancer research in the last fourplus years.

“June exemplified the qualities of determination, resilience and courage,” said Anne Wooley, head of the Art Committee for the June Rogers Foundation. “Her friendship and her fight taught me that winning is fun, but what’s more important is showing up and not letting circumstances define you. What defines you is how you engage with the activities and people you encounter along life’s journey.”

The Fight Like June event, which takes place every April, has grown exponentially over the last four years. Foundation members are expecting around 2,500 attendees this year. In 2022, the JRF raised over $38,000, and in 2023 it raised over $55,000. Last year, it raised over $100,000. The goal is to raise over $125,000 in 2025.

This year, the event takes place from Friday to Sunday, April 25-27, at the River Hills Country Club. The festivities include a free outdoor concert on Friday, the Fight Like June Golf Tournament on Friday morning and the Fight Like June Tennis Tournament on Saturday and Sunday.

The foundation created a June Rogers Scholarship for $1,000 for a student at East

By Nick Nahas

Bay High School, Rogers’ alma mater, who displays excellent character with ambition. Rivard Buick is donating a 2025 electric Hummer for a hole-in-one during Friday’s Birdie for the Battle golf scramble at River Hills Country Club.

“Playing June after I found out that she had cancer, and that she was playing me with a chemotherapy pump hooked up to her waist, gave me an entirely new perspective on who she truly was — a tennis warrior queen,” said Jennifer Garlic, tennis competitor and a friend of Rogers. “I learned that she played tennis as a way to give her life purpose. Cancer couldn’t strip her of the joy that playing tennis provided. She was a fierce competitor that I will never forget.”

All proceeds from the tournament will be directed to funds established to support the gastrointestinal oncology program at Moffitt Cancer Center, called the June Rogers Compassionate Care Initiative, with oversight provided by Dr. Jennifer Permuth.

“Once again we have an amazing combination of corporate, local business and community support,” said Allison Townsend, board member of the foundation and a friend of Rogers. “This is truly what is making our promise to June come true. Team June will improve the quality of life and journey of individuals, caregivers and families facing a colon cancer diagnosis.”

For more information, or if you would like to donate to the foundation, visit www. junerogersfoundation.org.

Now Offering NowMassage!Offering NowMassage!Offering

Photos courtesy of the June Rogers Foundation.

This year, the Fight Like June event takes place from Friday to Sunday, April 25-27, at the River Hills Country Club.

Get ready for a memorable day of excitement and community spirit at the ECHO at The Derby fundraising event, designed to support families in crisis. Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 3, and come dressed in your finest Kentucky Derby attire for an evening of entertainment, giving back, and making a difference in the lives of those in need. The event will be held at the Winthrop Barn Theatre. What to expect:

• Sip on classic mint juleps while soaking in the lively Derby atmosphere.

• Place your bids on exciting items during our silent auction.

• Try your luck with thrilling raffles for the chance to win fantastic prizes.

• Experience the elegance of Mi Casa Cigars in a refined setting.

• Dress to impress for a chance to win the coveted ‘Best Hat’ prize.

Every dollar raised at this event will directly benefit ECHO’s life-changing programs, which assist families in our local community. By attending, you’ll be helping support vital services such as job coaching, resource navigation and emergency food and clothing distribution.

In addition to enjoying a fun-filled evening, you can sponsor a horse and show your support for one of Hillsborough County’s most impactful nonprofits. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to watch the

Staff Report

thrilling 151st annual Kentucky Derby live from historic Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.

Event details:

• Doors open at 4 p.m.

• The location, The Barn at Winthrop, is located at 11349 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview.

• Tickets cost $50 per person.

• Sponsorships start at $1,500.

ECHO is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for families through personalized job coaching, resource navigation, and emergency support. Serving the Brandon and Riverview communities, ECHO’s mission is to assist those in need during times of crisis.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://echofl.org/.

ECHO’s food pantry in Brandon and Riverview provide vital assistance to residents in surrounding areas, including Brandon, Clair-Mel, Dover, Gibsonton, Lithia, Mango, Progress Village, Riverview, Seffner, Sun City Center, Tampa East, Thonotosassa and Valrico. Neighbors in need of emergency food can visit the Brandon Legal Group Welcome Center for support.

Additionally, the ECHO Clothing Closet in Brandon offers five outfits and a pair of shoes to those in need, along with personalized job coaching, financial workshops and access to essential community resources.

Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved one. Gain this knowledge at our NEW hybrid support groups being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon.

Fourth Wednesday of Every Month at 2:00 pm Meeting in person and via Zoom!!!

Number 869 4044 7508 Password: support Third Tuesday of Every Month at 6:30 pm Meeting in person and via Zoom!!! New Zoom Meeting Number 890 6308 0000 Password: 8240530

Freedom Plaza is proud to celebrate that one of its residents, retired Rear Admiral Larry Chambers, is featured in the Smithsonian’s six-part documentary on the Vietnam War, now streaming on Apple TV+. Chambers, a resident of Freedom Plaza for 14 years, is the star of episode six, which highlights his historic contributions to the U.S. Navy.

A pioneer in military history, Chambers was the first African American to command a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier and the first African American graduate of the United States Naval Academy to achieve flag rank. His role in the Vietnam War, including his leadership during the rescue of South Vietnamese refugees aboard the USS Midway, is a key moment explored in the documentary.

“This is an incredible opportunity for a global audience to hear Admiral Chambers’ firsthand account of history,” said Angie Roher, executive director at Freedom Plaza. “We are honored to have a resident whose legacy has shaped the course of American military history and inspired generations.”

Apple TV+ brings worldwide recognition to Chambers’ story, allowing viewers to see his extraordinary journey of service,

Staff Report

resilience and breaking barriers. His achievements not only mark milestones in naval history but also reflect the challenges and triumphs of overcoming racial barriers in the military.

Chambers is featured in Apple TV+’s Vietnam: The War that Changed America documentary, released on January 31 and narrated by Ethan Hawke.

About Freedom Plaza Freedom Plaza is a vibrant Life Care community in Sun City Center set on 140 acres of landscaped grounds. It features a private lake, walking trails and an 18-hole executive golf course and putting green. Just minutes from both Tampa and Sarasota, residents enjoy a maintenance-free retirement lifestyle, with resort-inspired services and amenities.

Freedom Plaza’s pet-friendly community features over 400 independent living residences ranging from studio to one- and two-bedroom apartment residences. It also offers assisted living residences; skilled nursing, including private rehabilitation suites; and memory care.

For more information on Freedom Plaza, visit https://freedomplazafl.com/.

VOODOO BREWING CO.VALRICO PARTNERS WITH THROTTLE HOTTIES FOR FUNDRAISING EVENT

By Brian Bokor

On Saturday, April 12, beginning at 12 Noon, Voodoo Brewing Co. - Valrico will be hosting a charity event for Small But Mighty Heroes (SBMH), a childhood cancer nonprofit. Members of local all-female motorcycle riding club Throttle Hotties of Tampa Bay will come dressed as superheroes and provide their bikes for the gathering located at 3432 S.R. 60 in Valrico.

Voodoo Brewing Co. - Valrico owner Chris Ciulla invites everyone, especially friends and family of the children, to stop by and celebrate. Photos opportunities of the kids propped atop their favorite superheroes’ bikes will be available with small donations appreciated. All proceeds will go directly to the charity. If you or your company would like to sponsor a bike for the event, contact Voodoo Brewing for more information.

“The collaboration between Voodoo Brewing and Throttle Hotties originated from a shared goal to support local businesses,” said current Hottie Leslie Cheteyan. “The relationship began at Voodoo’s grand opening in 2024. Despite the large crowd, Chris took the time to sit with us and discuss his interests. Through ongoing conversations, we explored collaboration and how we could jointly contribute to the community.”

Tina Marie Downing, founder and executive director of Small But Mighty, reiterated,

“Small Heroes is a childhood cancer nonprofit with a superhero-themed concept. We turn every child into a superhero, along with their siblings and sidekicks, while our team at SBMH dons superhero costumes.”

“When we became aware of Tina’s work, it resonated with one of our co-founders who has been involved in cancer clinical research for the past 13 years, including work with the pediatric population,” said Cheteyan.

“The Small But Mighty Heroes organization provides support to children and families facing challenging circumstances. We are ecstatic to participate in an event that can offer some positivity during these times and can’t wait to meet all the children and families that Tina and her organization support.”

“Be part of the community” is a core value Ciulla and his committed team strives for on a daily basis. From the long list of partners already established, including, but not limited to, Durant High School, RBQ Catering, Bootleggers Brewing Co., Quail Run Coffee, Housel Dance, ECHO, the Rotary Club of Brandon, Cigar Brothers, Saturday at the Market and now Small But Mighty Heroes, it is apparent Ciulla is achieving his goal. Ciulla credits Chef Guillermo Becker, aka Chef G and team for making events special. Voodoo is located at 3432 State Rd 60, Valrico https://valrico.voodoobrewery.com/

Freedom Plaza resident retired Rear Admiral Larry Chambers is featured in a six-part documentary on the Vietnam War, Vietnam: The War that Changed America, now streaming on Apple TV+.

SECOND COACH NORM HARRIS JR. 3 ON 3 BASKETBALL TOURNY SET FOR APRIL 27

On Sunday, April 27, the Campo Family YMCA will host the annual Coach Harris Jr. 3v.3 Basketball Tournament, in honor of Coach Norm Harris Jr., raising funds for youth basketball scholarships. The event promises an exciting day of competitive basketball for both players and spectators, reflecting the spirit and energy that Coach Harris brought to the court.

Norm, a beloved Valrico resident, made a significant impact on the local community through his dedication to coaching and volunteering at the Campo Family YMCA. Before his passing in 2018, Norm coached 60 teams and hundreds of young athletes. He and his wife, Jessica, were founding members of the Campo Y, where they sponsored children for summer camps and actively served on the board. Their children, Jacob, Henry, and Sarah, grew up playing sports at the Y. Reflecting on his father’s legacy, Jacob Harris shared, “I cannot express in words how amazing my father was. He

The Coach Harris Jr. 3v.3 Basketball Tournament is scheduled for Sunday, April 27, at the Campo Family YMCA. Proceeds will support youth basketball scholarships.

Staff Report

was the most caring and loving man. I always admired his selflessness and his concern for others.”

Norm’s impact went beyond basketball — he was a devoted father, husband and mentor who spent his life giving back to his community.

The 3x3 tournament will feature age categories including 12-14, 15-17, 18-30 and 30plus. Teams can register for $25 each by searching ‘Coach Harris’ at https:// runsignup.com/races, with registration open through Wednesday, April 23.

This event is more than just a tournament — it’s a celebration of Norm’s life and dedication to youth sports. Whether you wish to participate, sponsor or volunteer, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. For more information, contact Jessica Harris at nahjscholarship@gmail.com or stop by the Campo Family YMCA, located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico.

PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT’S NEW PLAY A FARCE OF HABIT BRINGS MANY LAUGHS TO THE COMMUNITY

Plant City Entertainment Community Theatre is the hub for theatrical performances and events in Plant City. Its 202526 theater season is in full swing with their upcoming play, Farce of Habit , starting on Friday, April 25, and running until Monday, May 5.

“Plant city is one of the oldest, if not the oldest community theater in Florida,” said Kelley Powell, play director. “We do everything with volunteers and are known for our famous Frank’s Brownies that we serve at our concession stand nightly. We strive to provide quality entertainment for our community by doing four shows a year.”

Plant City Entertainment Community Theatre is the hub for theatrical performances and events in Plant City. Its 2025-26 theater season is in full swing with their upcoming play, Farce of Habit, starting on Friday, April 25, and running until Monday, May 5.

Farce of Habit is a Jones Hope Wooten play and is a sequel to Wooten’s Farce of Nature play. The play is a comedy that focuses on the Reel ’Em Inn, the finest little fishing lodge in the Ozarks. The proprietor, D. Gene Wilburn, is looking forward to a peaceful weekend on the lake. But there are only two chances of that happening: slim and none. Wilburn’s wife, Wanelle, picked these three days to white-knuckle her way through caffeine withdrawal, and there are more family and guests of the inn’s hijinks as well.

“We love doing their play because our audience loves them and they are a lot of fun to perform,” Powell said. “What I

By Libby Hopkins

love best is directing and telling the playwrights stories.”

Powell has been in been involved in the entertainment business for more than 40 years.

“I did my first play for Plant City Entertainment at 14 years old when a cast member quit, and I stepped into the role of Terry in the play Babes in Arms ,” Powell said. “As a performer or backstage, I worked for cruise ships or theme parks and professional theater gigs for more 20 years then came back home to Plant City to live.”

Powell has also served on the board of Plant City Entertainment Community.

“I truly love working and seeing this little theater grow,” Powell said. “My hope for this show is the audience can escape for two hours in a sitcom like environment and belly laugh at these zany characters and the ridiculous things they get themselves into. I feel like right now in our world we all need to laugh more, and that’s why I love these plays.”

If you would like to learn more about Plant City Entertainment Community Theatre or if you’d like to attend Farce of Habit , you can visit www.plantcityentertainment.com or call 813-752-0728. The theater is located at 101 N. Thomas St. in Plant City.

OPENNOW TAMPA’S #1

Avelo Airlines now offers flights to Music City with new nonstop service between Central Florida’s Lakeland International Airport (LAL) and Nashville International Airport (BNA).

Avelo’s new route between LAL and BNA operates twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays. Travelers can book at www.aveloair.com.

Avelo Airlines founder and CEO Andrew Levy said, “Our Lakeland base offers Central Floridians easy access to air travel, especially for customers who value the convenience of a small hometown airport. Between the start of our new route to Nashville today and our six other nonstop destinations, customers flying in and out of Lakeland can expect more time and freedom to explore Florida in any direction they choose. Lakeland has all is the perfect complement to our operations, it has all the attributes necessary for us to offer the affordable, convenient and reliable travel experience our customers appreciate about Avelo.”

City of Lakeland Mayor Bill Mutz said, “We’re excited to see Avelo Airlines take off with such success! What’s even more thrilling is the expansion of service, now including Music City. With the ongoing support of our Polk community, we’re confident commercial air travel will keep growing at Lakeland Linder International Airport, and Avelo is meeting that demand with even more exciting destinations like Nashville, TN.”

Lakeland City Manager Shawn Sherrouse said, “Avelo is spreading its wings with additional flights in and out of Lakeland Linder International Airport. Like many other Lakeland residents, I’m thrilled about the

new destinations, including Nashville, TN, and can’t wait to hear more announcements as Avelo continues to grow its network to and from Lakeland.”

Lakeland International Airport director Kris Hallstrand said, “I am very excited that Avelo Airlines has added this great destination for our community. We look forward to welcoming our friends and family form the Nashville area as they now have an opportunity to enjoy what Lakeland and Polk County has to offer ‘At the center of it all!’”

Visit Central Florida Director Marketing Mark Jackson said, “Thanks to Avelo Airlines, it is easier for travelers from around the country to experience Central Florida. Here in Polk County, more routes translate into more heads in beds. Nearly 42,000 jobs were created through tourism alone in Polk County last year, saving each household roughly $1,000 in taxes. And for each 159 visitors, a job is created. We welcome Nashville to Central Florida’s Polk County, where the real Florida magic happens.”

Growing Avelo in Central Florida

Avelo established operations at LAL as part of its regional Central Florida base in October 2024. Avelo has flown nearly 60,000 customers on more than 500 flights since starting service in Lakeland. Avelo currently serves seven nonstop destinations from LAL: Charlotte/Concord, North Carolina (USA); Boston/Manchester, New Hampshire (MHT); New Haven, Connecticut (HVN); Philadelphia/Delaware Valley (ILG), Rochester, New York (ROC); San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU); and Wilmington, North Carolina (ILM). Visit www.aveloair.com.

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

As an elder law attorney, I often meet with individuals who are 65 and older. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, individuals 65 and older saw the fastest growth between 2010 and 2020. They are also the most targeted when it comes to exploitation, according to the FBI. A 2022 report by former FBI Director William Webster states that common scams include tech support scams, confidence and romance scams, investment scams and government impersonation scams. This is particularly true for ‘elder orphans,’ a term coined by Maria T. Carney, a gerontologist. These are people of advanced age who have no spouse, no children and no other family to care for them. I have noticed more and more of these elder orphans who come to my office needing estate planning.

Scams To Watch Out For Confidence scams. These involve the scammer slowly building a relationship with the older individual and slowly gaining their trust. They then financially exploit the individual once they’ve gained their trust. Usually, this happens when they convince the person to make the scammer their agent under a durable power of attorney or when they even more outrageously bring the person to the bank to add them to their accounts.

Tech support scams. Exploiters will make unsolicited offers through phone calls, websites or texts to ‘fix a problem’ with your computer or software. The National Council on Aging reported that, in 2023, this topped the list of fraud among seniors over the age of 60. It is common to see a pop-up window saying the computer is infected with a virus and that you need to call tech support immediately, then the ‘tech support’ will ask for credit card information to fix the prob-

lem and sometimes even ask for personal information.

Government impersonation scams. These involve people posing as IRS agents, law enforcement or Social Security Administration employees trying to steal money or obtain personal information through phone calls, emails or social media; typically, they demand payment or threaten legal action.

Tips To Consider

1. The government does not call you and threaten you over the phone. If you owe money to the IRS, you will get a notice in the mail.

2. The IRS, Social Security, Medicare, etc., do not text or direct message you on social media. Again, if they have issues concerning you, they will put it in writing and send it to you via snail mail.

3. If you suspect someone is trying to scam you: hang up the phone, delete the message and ignore the text or direct message. Look up the agency (or business) yourself online and call them back from the information you find on their website. Government agencies will have an American flag in the top left corner and a message that says, “Official website of the United States government.”

If you suspect a scam, you can call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311) or alert the Federal Trade Commission online at https://reportfraud. ftc.gov/ or by calling 877-FTC-HELP (877382-4357).

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

Hillsborough County Public Schools, in partnership with Workforce Development Partners Corp. (WDPC), will be hosting six Future Fair hiring events.

Workforce Development Partners Corp., a Florida-based 501(c)(3), is dedicated to creating life-changing opportunities for youth and adults while helping companies grow and providing an economic catalyst for communities.

It will be holding six hiring events throughout Hillsborough County in April with the first scheduled Thursday, April 3. The Future Fair hiring events are part of the Future Career Academy (FCA), the signature program of Workforce Development Partners Corp., presented in partnership with Hillsborough County Public Schools.

The goal for the hiring events is to combat the skills gap and foster local economic development in communities with long-term career growth for both high school graduates and adults.

The Future Career Academy is an immersive program with a curriculum that prepares seniors for in-demand, entry-level jobs with valuable professional and life skills. It helps bridge the gap between Hillsborough County students and career opportunities in their own backyard. More than 10,000 high school seniors participate annually in the program.

Future Career Academy events are collaborations between Workforce Development Partners and local businesses. The events are a chance for students to meet with em-

By Brian Bokor

ployers and learn about job and training opportunities.

“Future Fairs are the cumulation event of the year,” said Yvonne Fry, founder of the Future Career Academy organization in Plant City in 2015. “Over 500 kids will start the hiring process at these events with over 50 employers at each. We recently finished our eight days of Business Tours across all 37 Hillsborough County high schools, where 2,300 seniors were taken on informational visits to local businesses.”

While each event begins at 8 a.m. for students, adult job seekers will be admitted from 1-2 p.m. to the Best Florida Jobs ‘Power Hour’ portion once the student programming has concluded. To preregister for Best Florida Jobs, visit https://workforcedevelopmentpartners.com/bfj/. For more information about WDPC, visit https://workforcedevelopmentpartners.com/.

Upcoming events:

• Thursday, April 3 — East Tampa Future Fair hiring event at TPepin’, Tampa.

• Thursday, April 10 — Central and South Tampa Future Fair.

• Friday, April 11 — Northeast and Northwest Hillsborough Future Fair.

• Wednesday, April 16 — South Hillsborough Future Fair hiring event at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

• Thursday, April 17 — East Hillsborough Future Fair hiring event at The Regent, at located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

• Wednesday, April 23 — Plant City Future Fair hiring event at Hillsborough Community College - John R. Trinkle Center

Free Business Networking Opportunity at 11th Annual Open Doors Forum

The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview, is hosting a Free Business Networking Event to support minority and small business contracting on Tuesday, April 29, from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet government prime contractors and sub-contractors with the goal of forming new partnering relationships; connect with representatives of multiple government agencies, small business loan specialists and bonding and insurance professionals; and learn about the processes and procedures necessary to do business with local government. The annual forum is organized by Hillsborough County’s Minority/ Women-owned Business Enterprise (MBE) and Small Business Encouragement (SBE) program as part of an Economic Development initiative. Register for free at https:// hcfl.gov/opendoorsforum or by calling 813829-2650.

2025

participate. The deadline to submit artwork is 5 p.m. on Monday, April 21. Students will need to submit their art competition form online at https://buchanan.house.gov/congressional-art-competition, and the entries should be mailed or delivered to one the district office locations: 8433 Enterprise Circle, Ste. 210, in Bradenton (941-951-6643) or Vonderburg Dr., Ste. 303, in Brandon (813657-1013). The entries will be judged by an independent selection committee. The winning entry will be displayed for one year in the United States Capitol alongside artwork from every congressional district across the country. In a separate category, Congressman Vern Buchanan will award a ‘Facebook Fan Favorite!’. From Monday, May 5, through Friday, May 9, Buchanan will be displaying the submissions on his Facebook page. The piece that receives the highest number of likes and shares combined will be named the Facebook Fan Favorite. The winner’s art piece will hang in Buchanan’s Washington, D.C., office for one year. The next two top scorers will hang in his Bradenton and Brandon offices for one year.

Mystery Book Club Meets At Bloomingdale Public Library

homeschool community. To date, it has over 900 families and is continuing to grow. It has outgrown its building and has been raising money for The Big Dream Fund, which is a fund for a new facility for it to continue serving the community. It comes alongside other homeschooling families to help foster positive growth by offering classes, field trips, clubs, sports and much more. HEAT will be hosting a spring market with a wide variety of vendors on Saturday, April 5, at the Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, located at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. The event will run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon.

Free Shred Event

for the meeting go to www.easthillsboroughdems.org at least an hour before, or you may call 813-645-6324.

St. Stephen Catholic Church Lenten Fish Fry

Bring your unneeded household documents to the mobile shredding truck for a free shredding event. The event will be held at the Riverview Public Library parking lot, located at 9951 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview, on Saturday, April 12, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

East Hillsborough Democratic Club Meeting

St. Stephen Catholic Church, located at 10118 St. Stephen Circle in Riverview, will be providing its annual fish fry on Fridays during the period of Lent from now through April 11. The menu includes a fish dinner, combo fish and shrimp dinner, shrimp dinner or cheese pizza and include french fries and a choice of coleslaw or applesauce. A children’s menu is also available. Meals are offered as a drivethrough, carryout or dine-in option from 4:30-7 p.m.

Congressional Art Competition

Each spring, the U.S. House of Representatives sponsors an art competition for high school students. This nationwide competition provides students with an excellent opportunity to showcase their talent. All high school students who reside in Florida’s 16th Congressional District are eligible to

The Mystery Book Club meets at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library on the first Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. The next meeting will be on April 3, at which the book for discussion is The Antique Hunter’s Guide To Murder, by C.L. Miller. The book selected for the May 1 meeting is The Bone Code, by Kathy Reichs. These meetings are open to the public and the book club always enjoys welcoming new members. The Bloomingdale Regional Public Library is located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico.

Tampa Bay HEAT Spring Market

The Tampa Bay HEAT is a resource for the

The East Hillsborough Democratic Club welcomes all like-minded individuals to join the Tuesday, April 8, meeting at 6:30 p.m. Come early, order food and join in the conversation. Meetings are held both in person at Brandon Crossroads Bowl, located at 609 Crater Lane in Tampa, and via Zoom. For more information, get updates and register

Pickleball With An Impact Impact is holding a pickleball fundraiser on Saturday, May 3, at High 5 Inc., located at 405 Beverley Blvd. in Brandon. The tournament will include both singles and doubles competitions, and there is sure to be a lots of fun and laughs, as well as some serious pickleball play. The Impact Program promotes healthy lifestyles and relationships to teens through Teen Impact, to parents through its Parent Program and to teachers and other youth leaders through Classroom Education. Register at www.whatisimpact. com/events; register early, before Friday, April 18, to receive a T-shirt.

EDUCATOR WITH THE ‘HEART OF A KINDERGARTEN TEACHER’ SET TO RETIRE AFTER 41 YEARS

By Linda Chion

For more than four decades, Sharon Foley has lived her life’s passion, working with young children at the start of their formal educational journeys.

For this much-beloved kindergarten teacher, who spent all but a few years of her career in Hillsborough — and only a few years away from kindergarten — the journey has included assignments at Wimauma, Kingswood, Mintz, Bevis, McDonald, Walden Lake and Stowers elementary schools.

“I’ve always loved kids and I always knew I wanted to be a teacher,” Foleysaid. “My heart is that of a kindergarten teacher.”

Foley, who is set to retire at the end of the 2024-25 school year, said she has witnessed many changes in her years of teaching. “I loved watching their little minds grow and seeing the progress they made from the beginning of the year to the end of the year,” Sharon said. “I’m going to miss it, but I have a brand-new granddaughter, and I’m going to spend a lot of time with her.”

Also in the mix is her husband of 44 years, who Sharon met on a blind date in her freshman year of college.

“Sharon is loved by many,” George Foley said. “She makes her students want to learn, and if they want to learn, they’re going to.”

Sharon talks highly of her colleagues, and the principals with whom she has worked, including former school superintendent Jeff Eakins, who with his wife, Peggy, worked with Sharon as beginning teachers at Wimauma Elementary.

“I had 34 kids in my classroom, I was in a portable building and 17 of those kids did not speak a word of English,” Sharon said. “I learned that kids are kids no matter what, and their parents knew that education was very important for them.”

Another highlight of Sharon’s career has been her association with Stowers Elementary Principal Melanie Cochrane, with whom Sharon worked also at Bevis Elementary, and then at McDonald Elementary, a transformative, Title I school in Seffner.

“Six of us from Bevis went to McDonald with Melanie, where they need teachers who would stay because they had so many who didn’t,” Sharon said and then continued to follow Cochrane back to Stowers where she will complete her career.

The lesson learned at McDonald was “that you just never know what other people are dealing with until you’re right in the middle of it,” Sharon said. “Always be mindful of where you can help.”

FOURTH ANNUAL RACE FOR EDUCATION SET FOR APRIL 12

The fourth annual Race for Education, which is co-hosted by Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) and the Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF), will take place in Tampa on Saturday, April 12.

Race proceeds are used by HEF to fund engaging ways to improve the mental and physical wellness of students in the district.

HEF President and CEO Anna Corman said that HEF loves the impact the event has on local schools.

“The Race for Education is one of our favorite events of the year! It’s a fantastic way to bring the community together in support of education in Hillsborough County. The funds raised directly support our school and classroom enrichment grants, empowering teachers and schools to create meaningful activities that promote health and wellness for students,” Corman said. Last year, just over 1,000 community members participated in the event, which has both a 5K and 1-mile distance. This year, the race is expected to be even bigger. The race starts in front of Blake High School and both courses take participants

By Jane Owen

over the Hillsborough River.

Bo Orr, literacy coach at Armwood High School and member of the Brandon Running Association, participated with his wife, Hillary, and son, Liam.

“As runners, we really enjoyed the course, especially getting to run parts of Tampa that we usually don’t get to. The views from the bridge overpass were fantastic,” Orr said.

For Orr and the teachers who participate, it means a tremendous amount to see the community’s support.

“As an educator and parent of an HCPS student, it was a great experience to run with my family and share with my son how many people there are in the county working hard to provide an education to all of our young people and to improve our community as a whole,” Orr said.

Both 5K and 1-mile participants receive a race shirt and finisher’s medal. Top agegroup 5K finishers will receive awards. To register for the race, visit https://runsignup.com/race/fl/tampa/hef5k.

To learn more about HEF, visit https:// educationfoundation.com/.

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Hillsborough County Superintendent Van Ayres with school board members Patti Rendon, Henry Washington, Nadia Combs and Lynn Gray at the 2024 Race for Education.

PROTECTING WHAT MATTERS MOST WITH IRON ROCK INSURANCE

When it comes to protecting your home, your car or even your beloved pet, Iron Rock Insurance is dedicated to providing tailored coverage with a family-focused approach.

Founded in 2020 and located in Apollo Beach, Iron Rock Insurance specializes in personal lines insurance, offering policies for home, auto, flood, boat, RV, travel trailer, golf cart, motorcycle, and pet health insurance.

Iron Rock Insurance has quickly grown into a trusted name in the insurance industry. While the agency covers a wide range of needs, its commitment to focus exclusively on personal lines ensures that it provides expert guidance in this area. It recently added two new agents who are focusing on specialized coverage for watercraft/ marine insurance and high-value specialty autos.

As an independent agency, Iron Rock Insurance has access to many of the top homeowners and auto insurance carriers in Florida. This flexibility allows it to secure additional carriers when needed, ensuring clients receive personalized coverage options.

Customer service is a cornerstone of its success. Whether clients prefer in-person meetings at its office or virtual communication via phone, email or text, Iron Rock Insurance adapts to meet its clients where they are most comfortable.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

The team at Iron Rock Insurance is committed to helping customers find the right coverage for their needs. They take the time to assess each client’s unique situation, ensuring tailored solutions that offer value and comprehensive protection.

“We understand that times are tough for consumers with the rising costs of everything, including insurance,” said Lisa Hast, owner of Iron Rock Insurance. “That’s why we take the time to analyze each client’s risk and provide a detailed offer. We highlight potential gaps in their current coverage and focus on delivering value, not just the lowest price.”

Iron Rock Insurance prides itself on being a family-operated business. The team includes Hast; her husband, Jason; their daughter, Torie; and their future daughters-in-law, Kate and Katie. Adding to the welcoming atmosphere is ‘special agent’ Rimy, Hast’s Boston terrier, who joins the team in the office daily. The remaining team members are all local residents, ensuring Iron Rock’s values align with the community it proudly serves.

With a strong commitment to personalized service and a family-first mentality, Iron Rock Insurance continues to prioritize the needs of its clients, helping them secure the protection they deserve. For more information, please contact the Iron Rock Insurance office at 813213-9600 or visit www.ironrockins.com.

Spring is here — which means it’s once again time to wash the windows, organize your cabinets and steam your carpets. is year, in addition to tidying up around your house, why not also consider some nancial spring cleaning?

Here are some suggestions to consider:

• “De-clutter” your investment portfolio. When you embark on your home cleaning mission, you might notice that you have redundancies — three blenders, two vacuum cleaners, and so on. Similarly, you might nd duplicates in your investment portfolio, perhaps in the form of multiple, near-identical stocks or mutual funds. If so, then it might be worthwhile to consider selling some of these investments and using the proceeds to boost your portfolio in other areas in which you may be lacking.

• Cut back on “overgrown” investments. Now that winter is over and you’re venturing outside more, you may notice some overgrown shrubbery or some tree branches that need pruning. And while it may sound counterintuitive, you might also have some investments that have grown too big for your needs. For example, you might own some growth oriented investments whose value has increased so much that they now take up a larger percentage of your portfolio —and carry a higher degree of risk — than you originally intended. If that’s the case, you might be better o by selling some of these investments and purchasing others to help bring your investment mix back to its desired alignment.

• Dust o your investment strategy. With more sunlight now pouring in your house, you might notice that the corners of your walls and ceiling may need a good dusting. And as you continually work to strengthen your nancial foundation, you may need to dust o your

investment strategy, especially if you’ve recently experienced changes in your life, such as a marriage, addition of children, new job, and so on. And as you move closer to retirement, you may also need to adjust your strategy in some ways. For one thing, you might want to adopt a more conservative investment approach in the years immediately preceding your retirement, though you’ll still need to have some growth potential in your portfolio to help keep you ahead of in ation.

• Protect yourself from nancial dangers. As you go about your household spring cleaning, you may nd actual physical dangers that need to be removed or stored more safely, such as sharp objects or broken tools. And as you navigate daily life, you may also nd threats to your nancial safety — the need for an expensive home improvement, or a major car repair or an unexpectedly large medical bill. If you don’t have the money available to pay these expenses, you might be forced to dip into your retirement accounts or run up your credit card or take out a high rate loan. To protect yourself from having to make these moves, you may want to maintain an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account, separate from those you use for your daily living expenses.

Of course, some of these moves can take some time — but by getting started on them soon, you can help put your nancial house in better shape by the time the next spring cleaning rolls around.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Edward Jones, its employees and nancial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or quali ed tax advisor regarding your situation.

Tobacco Free Florida's Group Quit Sessions (in-person or virtual) now offer participants $25 - $125 in gift cards for their attendance.*

Group Quit offers free, expert-led in-person or virtual sessions for all Florida residents regardless of insurance status. Upon class completion, participants are eligible for nicotine replacement therapy such as gum, patches or lozenges.**

*while supplies last **if medically appropriate for those 18 years of age or older Pre-registration required Call USF AHEC today at: 813-974-7889

Iron Rock Insurance was founded in 2020 by Lisa Hast to provide personalized coverage with a family-focused approach.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT HELPS LATITUDES TOURS REOPEN

Latitudes Tours, located in Ruskin, is officially back on the water and ready to welcome guests for an unforgettable adventure.

By Makenzie Atkins Noel

While the hurricanes of 2024 brought unexpected challenges, including damage to boats and the loss of buses, the dedicated crew, a skilled boat builder and the incredible community support have helped Latitudes Tours reopen just in time for spring.

Though the storms presented obstacles, the overwhelming encouragement from the community made its return possible. The tour boat has been fully restored to its original condition, and the waterways along the tour routes are clear, ensuring a smooth and scenic ride.

“We want to say thank you to everyone in the community who reached out to check on us, donated to our fundraiser and those who were able to join us for a tour again,” said Nancy Lopez, owner of Latitudes Tours. “We truly appreciate the support and are proud to be part of such an awesome community.”

Guests can once again experience Latitudes Tours’ fully narrated boat tours, where expert guides share the rich history of the estuary and its diverse wildlife. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, dolphins, manatees, alligators and a variety of native and migratory birds are fre-

quently spotted along the route. The calm waters and breathtaking views create a relaxing and immersive experience, perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and families alike.

With safety as a top priority, the team has ensured that the boat has undergone a thorough inspection and that all equipment, from life jackets to emergency communication devices, is in top condition.

“Ensuring the safety and enjoyment of our guests is our top priority, especially as we recover post-hurricane,” Lopez said. “Guests can feel confident knowing that we are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards while delivering a fun and informative tour.”

Latitudes Tours operates Tuesday through Sunday and can be booked online. Guests can check real-time availability on the Latitudes Tours website or call for the latest updates on weather conditions.

While the closure was difficult, it reinforced just how much Latitudes Tours means to the community and how much the community means to it. With the waterway open and new memories waiting to be made, guests are encouraged to book a tour, soak in the beauty of Florida’s coastal wildlife and support a local, family-owned business.

For more information or to book a tour, please visit https://latitudestours.com/.

Jennifer Greene & Clint Fletcher

Complete Ketamine Tampa

The team at Latitudes Tours is excited to get you back out on the water and experience the wildlife.

HCFR WELCOMES 15 NEW FIREFIGHTERS AT GRADUATION PINNING CEREMONY

Staff Report

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) welcomed 15 new firefighters to the ranks at a pinning ceremony in March.

HCFR celebrated the new firefighters during a ceremony at Riverhills Church of God in Tampa. At the ceremony, the county’s newest firefighters received the HCFR shield for their helmet and got pinned by a loved one.

All graduates were trained and ready to begin their assignments and to respond to fires, emergency calls and assist residents on a daily basis. The new firefighters also received station and shift assignments during the graduation ceremony, putting them in firehouses throughout Hillsborough County.

15TH ANNUAL CRAWFISH FESTIVAL BRINGS BAYOU FLAVORS TO WINTHROP

The 15th annual Crawfish Festival is set to be another hit for the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, April 26, from 11 a.m.4 p.m. at Founders Square Park, located at Winthrop Town Centre. Chris Ligori & Associates, Attorneys at Law, serves as the event’s title sponsor. Entry to the festival is free, with food and drinks available for purchase.

are on sale now for the

annual

HCFR has nearly 1,200 firefighters at 47 fire stations serving the 1.1 million residents of unincorporated Hillsborough County.

The requirements to become an entry-level firefighter in Hillsborough County include having a high school diploma or GED, a Florida driver’s license, a State of Florida Certificate of Compliance (Firefighter II) certification and a State of Florida EMT certification, plus physical and character qualifications.

For more information and application, visit https://hcfl.gov/.

All the new firefighters have graduated from the Fire Academy and are certified emergency medical technicians (EMTs). For five weeks, the recruit class went through a Hillsborough-specific orientation to get them ready for their first days on the job.

Hosted by the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club, the festival’s proceeds benefit the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports both local and global community initiatives.

In addition to the great food and live music by Tommy RoXX, families can enjoy a dedicated children’s area with fun activities for all ages. Admission and parking are free.

For food enthusiasts, the festival will feature a Cajun-style crawfish dinner (approximately 2 lbs. of crawfish with corn and potatoes) for $25. Additional offerings include pulled pork sandwich-

es, hamburgers, hot dogs, red beans and rice, chicken and sausage gumbo, crawfish étouffée, Broussard’s dirty rice and more. Thanks to the success of last year’s festival, the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club Foundation awarded over $35,000 to a variety of local and global causes. Donation requests are submitted by active members and are awarded based on alignment with the Rotary club’s mission to alleviate poverty, illiteracy, hunger and disease. The 2024-25 recipients include organizations such as the Florida Society of Clinical Oncology, Senior Connection Center, YMCA Camp Cristina, ECHO of Brandon, Hillsborough County Public Schools’ Migrant Education Program and many others.

The FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club meets weekly on Mondays at 12 p.m. at JF Kicks Restaurant, located at 3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more information, visit https://fishhawkriverviewrotary.org/. Tickets for the Crawfish Festival can be purchased online at www.luvcrawfish.com.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Fire Chief Jason L. Dougherty (bottom row, center left), Hillsborough County Administrator Bonnie Wise (bottom row, center) and 13th Judicial Circuit Judge Nick Nazaretian (bottom row, center right), who administered the firefighter oath, with the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Class 25-01 class.

Tickets

15th

Crawfish Festival, to be held on Saturday, April 26, at Winthrop Town Centre.

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT:

E-Club of Tampa South - In April, the Rotary E-Club of Tampa South has an exciting fundraiser planned to support local high schoolers to attend S4TL (Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders), receive college scholarships and provide prizes for the club’s annual Speech Contest. Join in also for its Paint & Sip Fundraiser on Thursday, April 24, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Paschall Blanc Art Studio & Gallery, located at 1114 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. The cost is $35 per person (‘Lite Dinner’ included in price).

District Rotarians, including local resident Deborah Williams, traveled to India to join in the fight to eradicate polio led by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. Hear about their trip on Monday, April 7, at JF Kicks at 12 Noon.

duras Compassion Partners on a global Rotary grant for humanitarian work in La Paz, Honduras. The FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club meets Mondays at 12 Noon at JF Kicks and Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at Shrimp Boat. All are welcome. For more information, contact Joe Nichols at rotaryjoenichols@ gmail.com.

Want to learn more about this Rotary club? Join in via Zoom on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, 7-8 PM (EST). The Zoom meeting ID is https://zoom. us/j/7328811760. For more information, contact Duane Williams at dsigma79@aol. com.

FishHawk-Riverview - It’s Crawfish Festival time! On Saturday, April 26, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club, in partnership with title sponsor Chris Ligori & Associates, invites you to its 15th annual Crawfish Festival fundraiser. Get your tickets early to avoid the lines. Visit www. luvcrawfish.com for all information related to the festival. At the club’s Monday meeting on April 7, learn from its Rotary district team who traveled to India to protect children from polio, and on Monday, April 28, join in for Carlos ‘Jonathan’ Fonseca’s presentation on the club’s partnership with Hon-

USF Rotaract (College Students) - USF Rotaract is thriving! In March, Dr. Sarvadaman Pathak, a clinical research physician and Harvard Medical School alumnus, spoke to USF Rotaract about resilience in medicine and surviving the obstacles of medical school. https://bullsconnect.usf.edu/ or visit Instagram @usf_rotaract.

Brandon - The Rotary Club of Brandon thanks you for another successful Wild Game Dinner fundraiser at Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. College scholarship applications are now open for graduating high school seniors on its website, https://brandonrotary.org/. Join in on Tuesdays from 12 Noon-1 p.m. at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Contact Debbie Meegan at debbiemeeganrotary@gmail.com.

Brandon ’86 - The Brandon ’86 Rotary Club welcomes business and community leaders to join it on Friday mornings, 8-9 a.m., at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center, located at 3007 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. For more information, contact Chad Norgard at chad@norgardinsgrp.com.

GET THE DIRT: FOR THE LOVE OF MULCH AND MULCHING!

BY LYNN BARBER, URBAN HORTICULTURE AGENT

I still love to mulch. It’s relaxing; I’m outdoors and can see immediate results of my labor! It’s multitasking too: mulching while thinking about installing microirrigation in a landscape bed, starting seeds, what to divide, relocate or conquer. Early morning, before the heat of the day, is a great time to add mulch to your landscape beds.

Mulch is very beneficial. It retains moisture in the soil; suppresses weeds; adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes, which improves soil structure; moderates soil temperature; reduces runoff and erosion from your yard; provides increased area for root growth; protects plants from lawnmowers and weed eaters; and enhances the beauty of your landscape.

Mulch can be organic or inorganic. Organic mulches include:

• Pine bark, a byproduct of the timber industry that has good color retention. Purchase the medium or small size because the large size tends to float away in heavy rain.

• Pine straw, which settles quickly and is another timber industry byproduct.

• Eucalyptus, produced from Florida plantations, has a light reddish-brown color and minimal settling over time.

• Melaleuca has high termite resistance, almost no settling over time and is produced from an invasive, non-native tree. That’s a win-win situation.

• Oak leaves are a free source of mulch, have minimal settling over time and create ‘self-mulching’ areas under trees.

Contact your county recycling facilities to

determine their hours of operation and availability of municipal yard waste.

The University of Florida (UF) does not recommend cypress mulch because it’s not a renewable resource, and harvesting destroys the habitat for native birds and animals.

Inorganic mulches include:

Crushed shell, gravel and rock, which provide nice texture and color in landscape beds, but don’t prevent weeds to the extent organic mulches prevent them. They reflect heat, preventing soil moisture loss.

Recycled tire/rubber mulch lasts for a long time, can be quite costly and may contain high zinc levels in leachate, which can harm plants (based on USDA research). Rubber mulch can be flammable, and there may be issues with using this because of stormwater runoff and chemicals entering Tampa Bay.

What about termites? University of Florida research indicates termites may be present more frequently in mulched versus nonmulched areas. However, certain practices will help deter these critters. Examples include leaving space between plants and exterior walls, pulling mulch 1 foot away from walls and applying mulch 1-inch thick near buildings to reduce moisture near foundations and applying no more than 1 inch of water per irrigation.

Mulch the entire landscape bed. Wood and bark mulches should be 3 inches deep after settling. Mulch newly set plants after they are planted and watered. Reapply mulch around established plants as needed

HCC FOUNDATION

RECEIVES

FROM DICKMAN FAMILY FOR SOUTHSHORE CAMPUS WORKFORCE EDUCATION BUILDING

The Hillsborough Community College (HCC) Foundation is pleased to announce a $1 million gift to support the creation of the Pop and Glenn Dickman Family Workforce Education Building at the HCC SouthShore Campus. This contribution is the largest gift the foundation has received and was made possible through the generosity of Danita Dickman and her family foundation at the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay.

“Their legacy will remain a source of inspiration as we work to positively impact the lives of those around us.”

“This is a historic gift for HCC and the SouthShore Campus,” said HCC President Dr. Ken Atwater. “We are grateful for the continued support of the Dickman family, who have been longstanding supporters of the college. Their generosity has spanned decades including donating the land that the SouthShore Campus resides on today. The family’s commitment to the college has been unwavering, and I look forward to continuing our transformative work together.”

The Pop and Glenn Dickman Family Workforce Education Building will bring a dedicated space for HCC’s Workforce Development programs, including automotive collision repair, nursing and welding technology, to the SouthShore Campus. The 51,000 sq. ft. building will also be a specialized area where students can build their skills using high-tech simulators, hands-on training and computerized instruction.

“We are dedicated to continuing the legacy of innovation, progress and education

“The Dickman family have been trailblazers and impactful leaders in the region,” said Dr. Jennifer China, HCC SouthShore Campus president. “Not only have they played a pivotal role in shaping South County, but they have also dedicated their time and resources to ensure the prosperity and livelihood of its citizens. This impactful gift is a reflection of their longstanding legacy of service and will be significant in advancing the mission at the SouthShore Campus as we continue to expand workforce development programs.”

Hillsborough Community College serves more than 45,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For more information, visit www.hccfl. edu.

Hillsborough Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Hillsborough Community College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Hillsborough Community College may be directed in writing to SACSCOC at 1866 Southern Lane in Decatur, Georgia, by calling 404-679-4500 or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website at www.sacscoc.org.

CHURCH IN BRANDON IS GIVING HOPE TO THE HUNGRY IN MILLIONS OF WAYS

Nativity Catholic Church in Brandon has reached a major milestone: over 2 million meals distributed.

“In 2024, we distributed 3,170,728 pounds of food. That equates to over 2 million meals, and we continue to grow,” said Julie Ebert, volunteer director of the food bank that is run by all volunteers and one staff person.

“The best part of this story is the players, the wonderful volunteers that come here Monday through Friday to help feed the food insecure. When you take a closer look, you’ll be amazed at seeing all these hardworking men and women are all over, or close to the age of 65, getting the job done,” added Ebert, who is in her 70s.

Nativity Catholic Church started a food pantry in 1983 and as time passed, it grew into a food bank that started giving food to other churches and organization. Now, it provides food for 70 food pantries and 10 other groups in the area.

Nativity Food Bank supplies food to Aurea Rodriguez and her volunteer team of eight people. They have been bringing food to local farmworkers for 17 years.

“On average, we collect and deliver these items to 35 farmworker families per week in the Valrico and Dover area. The most important thing is to bring smiles to the kids,” said Rodriguez.

Deacon Ed Anctil also relies on Nativity Food Bank. Once a month, members of his parish, Mary Help of Christians Center, bring food to homeless families near a vacant lot on Busch Boulevard in Tampa.

By Teresa Peterson

“We provide each family with an essential bag of food. The food items taken from Nativity Food Bank allow us to set up tables so that each person can take items they will be able to use for themselves or for their families,” said Anctil.

Father Mike Smith, pastor of Nativity Catholic, shared a message of gratitude during the news conference.

“We’re very privileged to have the work of the volunteers, the generosity of the donors, the support of our bishop and the Diocese of Saint Petersburg to do the work that we do,” said Smith.

In 2022, the Food Bank moved to a new, larger warehouse that greatly increased its capacity. This effort was supported by other area Catholic churches and Catholic Charities who provided land for the new warehouse at San Jose Mission in Dover.

“I’m very proud that our parishes were able to work together to make this a reality here today,” said Bishop Gregory Parkes.

Nativity extends profound gratitude to all its partners and donors, with special recognition going to Feeding Tampa Bay; Publix; Costco; Sprouts; the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office; Walmart; Wawa; Dollar General; St. Stephen Parish and Resurrection Parish, Riverview; St. Timothy Parish, Lutz; St. Francis of Assisi, Parish, Seffner; Mary Help of Christians Parish, Brandon; Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, Wimauma; St. Anne Parish, Ruskin; Prince of Peace Parish, Sun City Center; and Catholic Charities.

SUMMERFIELD AMENITY CENTER OFFERS A RANGE OF EVENT SPACE OPTIONS

Looking for a convenient venue for a wedding reception or graduation party? The Summerfield Master Community Association in Riverview has opened its doors to anyone seeking an event space.

“It’s quite large — you can fit up to 100 people inside,” said Laura Petty-Green, the association’s office administrator. “It features a full catering kitchen with high-quality countertops, a full-sized fridge, and spacious restrooms.”

In addition to the indoor space, a conference room for up to 15 people and an outdoor common area is available with couches, chairs and a pergola providing a welcoming setting for social gatherings. According to Petty-Green, the venue hosted weddings, baby showers and graduations, making it a versatile option for any celebration.

Although the facility has always been available for rentals, recent efforts are aimed at increasing general awareness. Summerfield residents receive discounted rates, while nonresidents can book at a separate price. All rental revenue supports the facility’s maintenance, utilities and overall upkeep.

By Pam Oakes

“It’s a beautiful space with great presentation value,” Petty-Green added. “Plus, it has its own dedicated parking right in front of the venue.”

Located just south of the Big Bend Road and U.S. 301 South intersection, Summerfield is one of Riverview’s older communities, with homes dating back to the 1980s. The amenity center, completed in 2021, was created to serve both residents and the general public. It is adjacent to the residential community center, which features a full-size gym, pools, and workout rooms.

Booking is simple through the community’s website, where potential renters can view pricing, check availability and explore frequently asked questions. Special promotions, such as discounted rates for June and Sundays, provide affordable options for those planning an event.

“Last year, we did a wine and cheese event and put the little twinkle lights all around the pergola. I mean, it was just really a lot of fun; it’s a great space,” Petty-Green said. The Amenity Center is located at 13013 Summerfield Blvd., Riverview, FL 33579. For rental inquiries, visit www.oursummerfield. org or call 813-671-2005.

Photo courtesy of Farah Dixon. Bishop Gregory Parkes thanks volunteers and supporters.

EXCITING NEW CAMPS PROVIDE FUN ACTIVITIES TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED THIS SUMMER

Spring is almost here, and summer is just around the corner. That means it’s time to start signing up for exciting sum mer camps offering everything from learning experiences to outdoor fun, performing arts and more. The Osprey Observer team has rounded up the best local summer camps and put together a special pullout section with top recommendations for this season. Whether your child is into music, theater, sports, coding or outdoor adventures, there’s something for every interest and age group.

trips and themed weeks, with both half-day and full-day options. Easterseals School for Limitless Learning provides specialized camps for neurodiverse families, offering an inclusive and engaging environment.

Got a budding performer in the family? Music Showcase allows kids ages 5 and up to shine in musicals hosted by the Florida Academy of Performing Arts. The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory also offers a variety of arts programs, including dance, theater and music, with over 50 camps and classes to choose from.

For a fun, active summer, 5th Dimension Dance Center features field

If your child loves the outdoors, Circle F Dude Ranch, Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center and Busch Gardens offer traditional summer camp experiences, with overnight options available. Brandon’s High 5 Inc. has a thrilling summer lined up, including safaris and exciting field trips. The local YMCAs — Campo Family YMCA in Valrico, North Brandon Family YMCA in Seffner, Spurlino Family YMCA in Riverview and YMCA Camp Cristina in Riverview — feature camps that mix fun with valuable learning opportunities.

Sports enthusiasts can level up at Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club’s specialty camps or join Tampa Dynamo FC for soccer training.

Kinovo School, a newcomer to the community, is offering camps at four local locations this summer.

For martial arts, Sidekicks Martial Arts Camp teaches kids self-defense, discipline and provides plenty of fun while staying active. Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk offers both full and halfday camps, with weekly field trips and exciting themes for kids of all ages.

To keep their minds sharp, Mathnasium offers summer learning opportunities, while Skill Samurai and Code Wiz host coding, robotics and gaming camps, with options for all experience levels in Roblox, Minecraft and more.

For full details — including dates

April 27 10am to 4pm RSVP

Learn more about the day, and let us know you’re coming.

and registration information for all of these camps — check out our special section and start planning your child’s best summer yet! And don’t forget to enter our Summer Camp Sweepstakes! The Osprey Observer will cover the cost of a week at the summer camp of your choice. Simply email us with the subject line “Summer Camp Free” at contest@ospreyobserver.com to enter. Think we missed a fantastic camp? Let us know by emailing us at editor@ospreyobserver.com. With so many exciting summer camp options, get ready for a fun and unforgettable summer 2025!

HIGH 5

YMCA

MATHNASIUM

BUSCH GARDENS

HIGH 5 INC. LAUNCHES SUMMER CAMP SAFARI FOR CAMPERS DAY CAMPS, RESIDENTIAL CAMPS AND MORE IN STORE AT CEDARKIRK

High 5 Inc. is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual summer camp, set to begin on Tuesday, June 2, and run through Friday, August 8. This year’s exciting theme, Summer Camp Safari, will feature a blend of indoor and outdoor activities, along with fun-filled field trips.

“Our goal is to inspire young athletes, foster teamwork and promote a love for physical activity,” said Jada Spano, vice president of operations. “This summer camp offers a dynamic environment for children to stay active and develop new skills.”

Campers can enjoy a flexible schedule with drop-off starting at 7 a.m. and pickup running until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The camp costs $165 per week.

Participants are asked to bring their own snacks, lunch, a change of clothes and a towel. Swimsuits and closed-toed shoes are required daily.

Throughout the camp, children will have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of sports and activities.

“Our skilled and dedicated coaches will guide campers through training sessions, teaching fundamental sports skills and

Staff Report

helping them enhance their techniques,” Spano said.

The camp will maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, with approximately 25 students per instructor. In addition to sports, campers will engage in creative crafts, such as making banners to showcase their personal values. Teamwork and sportsmanship will be emphasized as campers work together toward common goals and cheer each other on.

Daily activities include options like swimming and diving, outdoor fields, the playground, the gymnasium, Gamer’s Grotto, arts and crafts and STEM-based projects.

High 5 Inc., a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to promoting after-school programs that support students in learning to swim and providing special education through recreational activities.

Located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon, off State Road 60, High 5 Inc. offers a welcoming environment for campers. For more information or to register for the summer camp, visit https://high5inc. org/ or call 813-689-0908.

Cedarkirk is a yearround Presbyterian camp and conference center established in 1971, and it’s gearing up again with plenty of outdoor activities and events for guests and campers on its 170 acres of woodlands, wetlands and uplands.

“Our mission statement is ‘to be a place apart to build up the body of Christ in love.’ … Summer camp is a big part of that, in the sense that we really just want kids to have a place where they can be loved and nurtured and cared for, and grow into the person they were created to be and feel confident doing that,” said Matthew Shick, executive director of Cedarkirk.

From Sunday, June 8, through Friday, August 1, Cedarkirk will host its summer camp programs, which include residential summer camps, the Challenge to Change mission program and the return of its Adventure Day Camps.

At its residential summer camps, campers spend six days and seven nights in family groups — groups of campers with their counselors. It has programs for everyone from first through 12th grade, as well as adult and intergenerational programs.

In the Challenge to Change program, youth groups will spend a week at camp participating in off-site, hands-on missions

By Taylor Wells

with fact-finding opportunities to increase awareness of poverty and social justice issues.

Cedarkirk’s adventure-based, faith-focused day camp is one of its newest programs, first offered last year. Starting on Monday, June 9, campers — current kindergarteners through fifth graders — will be in family groups and have fun playing outside, making friends, growing in their faith and trying out new adventures, like zip-lining, arts and crafts, shark tooth hunting, swimming and so much more. And at $230 a week, Cedarkirk’s day camp is an affordable option.

“I would say the biggest things that have changed in the last couple years … would be the addition of the day camp and then trying to put a greater emphasis on partnerships with organizations and nonprofits that can use this space and help forward their own missions,” said Shick.

And for those new to Cedarkirk, the Spring Fun Day is a great, free opportunity to get to know it. On Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., For those who’ve been to Cedarkirk before, the cost is only $16.

Cedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia, near the Alafia River. Visit https:// cedarkirk.org/ or call 813-685-4224.

Get ready for an exciting and inclusive adventure designed specifically for neurodiverse young learners and those with other disabilities in kindergarten through second grade. Packed with hands-on and interactive STEAM activities, Easterseals School For Limitless Learning’s summer camp offers a supportive space where every child can explore, grow and thrive. Each session has a different theme with topics such as Ocean Explorers, where campers dive into the wonders of the deep blue sea, and LEGO Builders, where campers engage in building challenges, teamwork exercises and imaginative play using LEGO bricks. The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning is located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170, in Valrico, and the summer camp is available for eight weeks from Monday, June 16, to Friday, August 8, with morning, afternoon and all-day sessions available. Sessions are $200 per week for half-day camps and $350 per week for all-day camps. Register by Tuesday, April 15, to get the early-bird discount — $50 off the first week’s tuition. Register for all eight sessions and get the last week free. Please scan the QR code to register for the camp and feel free to contact Easterseals at limitlesslearning@

fl.easterseals.com or 813-236-5589. It is located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170, in Valrico. Learn more at www.easterseals.com/ florida/programs-and-services/children--families/ school-for-limitless-learning. html.

The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning opened its doors last September and offers two programs, including a 10-month lower elementary program serving children with a diagnosed disability from pre-K through second grade and a year-round early childhood program serving children from 6 weeks to 3 years old with or without a diagnosed disability. The school’s innovative curriculum is tailored to meet the unique needs of its students, using hands-on activities and a play-based approach. The school follows the DIRFloortime® model, which prioritizes the development of healthy social, emotional and intellectual foundations, rather than just focusing on skills and isolated behaviors. Both programs are currently accepting new students, and financial aid and scholarships are available. Easterseals is a nonprofit organization leading the way to full equity, inclusion and access through life-changing disability and community services.

Circle F Dude Ranch Camp, a beloved institution located in Lake Wales, is more than just a summer camp. The ranch was founded in 1952 as a traditional sleepaway summer camp for girls and boys ages 6-16 rooted in a classic dude ranch experience. Owned and operated by Reed Fischbach, the camp offers a year-round haven for adventure and education. Since its inception, Circle F has been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, school groups and families seeking a unique experience.

During the summer, Circle F becomes a bustling hub of activity, welcoming approximately 200 campers per session. These sessions are evenly split between boys and girls, creating a balanced and inclusive environment. Campers can look forward to a wide array of activities, including horseback riding, waterfront activities, arts, team and individual sports, ax throwing and climbing towers. The ranches activities are designed to build character and foster individual growth through experiences for all the campers.

Fischbach’s passion for running Circle F is evident in his day-to-day interactions with campers. “I enjoy walking the grounds and meeting the campers,” said Fischbach. “It’s always interesting learning about why they love Circle F, and they ask great questions.”

By Kelly Wise Valdes

What sets Circle F apart from other camps is its commitment to quality and professionalism. The camp boasts yearround, highly trained professional staff, a pristine private lake and a private herd of over 50 horses. These elements contribute to the camp’s unique charm and appeal.

Looking ahead to the summer, Fischbach is excited to highlight several new upgrades and improvements.

“We have been upgrading facilities and revamping the riding program with new horses and tack,” he noted.

This dedication to continuous improvement ensures that returning campers and new visitors alike will have an enhanced experience.

As Circle F Dude Ranch Camp prepares to celebrate its 74th summer, Fischbach is eager to share this milestone with the community.

“We operate year-round with outdoor education programs for school groups and group rentals of 50 to 250 people,” said Fischbach. “We’ve had some groups that have been coming for 40 years.”

For more details, visit https://circlefduderanchcamp.com/ or contact the office directly at 863-676-4113. The camp is located at 5301 Dude Ranch Rd. in Lake Wales.

Location: M-TH Drills & Fundamentals Stations @ Ostingers Academy 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Rd

FR Practice games @ Randy Larson Complex 1500 S Park Rd, Plant City

MARTIAL ARTS, PERFORMANCE, CODING & SLEEP AWAY CAMP

The Patel Conservatory With 100 Plus Camps & Classes

The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory offers arts education courses and programs in dance, theater and music, with 100-plus camps and classes available. Running from Monday, June 2, to Friday, August 1, full and half-day camps are available weekly for ages 3-18. The cost varies depending on the camp; financial aid and scholarships are available. For more information, visit www. patelconservatory.org or call 813-222-1040.

Sidekicks Family Martial Arts

Sidekicks Family Martial Arts is excited to announce registration for its Powerful Kids Summer Camp.

This action-packed camp is open to rising kindergarten through fifth graders and includes daily age and developmentally appropriate martial arts training, a wide range of activities and exciting on-campus field trips. There are options available for the full summer or a flexible Pick Your Weeks option. Secure your spot for as little as $49 upfront.

Tampa Dynamo FC Offers Soccer Fun

Get ready for an action-packed

week of soccer fun at Tampa Dynamo FC’s summer camp. Designed for players of all skill levels, the camp focuses on skill development, teamwork and passion for the game through engaging small sided games and activities. Camp will be held at the Summerfield Sports Complex in Riverview from June 2-6, from 8a.m. until 11a.m. Spots are limited, visit wwwTampaDymanofc.com.

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

5th Dimension Dance Center Offers Themed Weeks & Field Trips

Code Wiz Coding & More

Code Wiz, located at 16132 Churchview Dr., Ste. 105, in Lithia, teaches coding and robotics to children and embraces the Montessori approach to learning, which means its camps are hands-on, student-driven and designed to foster curiosity and independence.

Campers are encouraged to explore, problem-solve and create at their own pace, with guidance from coaches to support their individual learning journeys. Camps will run throughout the summer from Monday, June 2, to Friday, August 1, and are available for mornings, afternoons or full days.

Visit its website at https://thecodewiz.com/ fishhawk-fl for more information and to register.

5th Dimension Dance Center is offering fun-filled, action-packed weeks for kids from ages 3-12 years. There will be daily dance classes, games, arts and crafts and weekly field trips for full-day campers. There are a wide range of themes, including boogie boogie, superhero, tutus and tiaras. Visit its website at www.5thdimensiondancecenter. com or call 813-643-5332 for additional information and to register. 5th Dimension Dance Center is located at 3239 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center Day & Overnight Camps

Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center, located on 170 acres of woodlands, wetlands and uplands near the Alafia River, will have summer camps starting on Sunday, June 8, and finish on Fri-

CAMP WITH US!

With over 25 different camp options throughout the Tampa YMCA area, there’s something for every camper to enjoy! From art and gymnastics to ziplining and splashing in our pools the Y is the ultimate summer destination. Summer Camp starts June 2nd!

STEM, PERFORMING ARTS, DUDE RANCH CAMP & SUMMER SAFARI

day, August 1. Campers can sign up for a week or the whole summer. Cedarkirk offers overnight camps for older students which run Sunday through Friday and day camp, and younger campers in grades one through three can attend a shorter threeday camp. Day camp is available for campers who have completed kindergarten up to those who have completed fifth grade and is priced at $230 per week. Day campers must bring their own lunch. Cedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-685-4224. For more information and to register, visit https://cedarkirk.org/.

Skill Samurai STEM, Robotics, Game Design & More

Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind summer camp that combines fun with future-ready skills?

Skill Samurai Summer Camps offer kids ages 7-14 hands-on experiences in coding, robotics, game design and STEM activities. Through engaging, project-based learning, your child will develop critical thinking, creativity and confidence while building real-world tech skills. Whether they’re creating games, programming robots or exploring 3D design,

Skill Samurai makes learning exciting. Give your child the ultimate summer adventure — sign up today. Skill Samurai is located at 931 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. Visit its website at https://skillsamurai.com/fl-brandon.

High 5 Inc. Offers Fun Summer Camp Safari

Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to embark on an exciting and adventurous journey where your child will experience the thrill of Summer Camp Safari, kicking off on Monday, June 2, and running through Friday, August 8. Daily activities will include pool time, outdoor play, field games, arts and crafts and more, including field trips. Camp is offered Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5 Inc., located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Campers can sign up for individual weeks or throughout

the entire summer. To learn more, visit https://high5inc.org/ or call 813-689-0908.

Music Showcase And The Florida

Academy Of Performing Arts Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts will host their annual summer camp this summer. The Music and More and Musical Theater camps will immerse campers into acting, singing, dancing and more

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Circle F Dude Ranch

Circle F Dude Ranch, located in Lake Wales, welcomes boys and girls from all over the United States and the world for one to three-week sleepaway camp sessions. Kids range in age from 6-16.

throughout the summer. In Musical Theater camp, campers will learn

to work collaboratively, the art of stage character, voice projection, props and working with a set. The Music and More camp has full and half-day camps with instrument, art, acting and singing activities. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, visit teh website at https://faopa.org/.

Of all the summer and overnight camps in Florida, there’s only one Circle F Dude Ranch. If you’re looking for a horseback riding camp near you, then look no further. But that’s not all — Circle F also offers unique Western Fun activities you won’t find anywhere else. Of course, it’s a traditional sleepaway camp, so it has all the sports boys and girls love, plus extreme adventures, like paintball and skateboarding, and its Alpine Climbing Tower, zip line and high ropes course.

Circle F Dude Ranch has arts and theater, and you know its Florida, so it has excellent water sports too.

How can Circle F be described? It’s Florida’s best, most exciting, kid-friendly dude ranch experience. For details about the camp, https://circlefduderanchcamp.com/.

YMCA, BUSCH GARDENS, KINOVU, NEURODIVERSE CAMP & MORE

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Easterseals School For Limitless Learning — Inclusive Summer Camp For Neurodiverse Learners

Get ready for an exciting and inclusive adventure designed specifically for neurodiverse young learners and those with other disabilities in kindergarten through second grade. Packed with hands-on and interactive STEAM activities, it’s a supportive space where every child can explore, grow and thrive. Each session has a different theme, with topics including such things as Ocean Explorers, where campers dive into the wonders of the deep blue sea, and LEGO Builders, where campers engage in building challenges, teamwork exercises and imaginative play using LEGO bricks. The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning is located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170, in Valrico, and the summer camp is avail -

able for eight weeks from Monday, June 16, to Friday, August 8, with morning, afternoon and all-day sessions available.

New To Area Kinovu School Offers Four Locations

The theme of summer camp at Kinovu School is ‘Where Summer Adventure Meets Education,’ and the goal of the educational program at Kinovu School is to nurture autonomous, lifelong learners because learning autonomy has been proven to be a key determinant of life success. Camps are for all ages and are available all day from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Your child will explore, learn and grow at Kinovu School, which is located at 3105 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. For more information, visit https://kinovuschools.com/ or call 813-654-2124.

YMCA Summer Camp

With over 25 different summer camp options throughout the Tampa YMCA area, there’s something for every camper to enjoy.

From art and gymnastics to zip-lining and splashing in its pools, the Y is the ultimate summer destination with friends, fun and adventure. Summer camps start on Monday, June 2, and run all summer. Register online at https://tampaymca.org/ letscamp.

your child’s grade level and interests. One of the reasons to choose Busch Gardens as your summer camp include it being accredited by the American Camping Association, meaning parents can trust that the camp meets high standards for safety, staff training and program quality. Also, campers get to enjoy the adrenaline rush of rides as well as the unique opportunity to meet animals

Busch Gardens Offers Camps For Students K-12th Grade

For more than 25 years, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has provided children with inspiring, exciting and educational experiences through some of the best Tampa summer camp options. There are a wide variety of Summer Day Camp options to fit

up close. Beyond the fun, campers experience activities that are both enriching and educational, providing a well-rounded experience. Visit Busch Gardens’ website at www.buschgardens.com for additional information.

OSTINGERS BASEBALL, KIDS ‘R’ KIDS, RACQUET CLUB & MORE

Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Wanderlost Summer Camp & Field Fun Field Trips

Who’s ready for the ultimate summer adventure? This year, Kids ‘R’ Kids is your passport to fun. Each week, its Wanderlost Summer Camp will whisk your child away to an exciting new destination where they’ll explore fascinating cultures, discover amazing animals and dive into hands-on adventures.

Thursday, 9 a.m.-12 Noon, starting Monday, June 2, and ending Thursday, August 7.

Early drop-off is at 8:30 a.m. and late pickup is at 12:30 p.m. The price per week is $185 with sibling discounts, multiweek discounts and an early-bird discount. Advanced/tournament players have a full-day option, including match play and video analysis. Tennis shoes are required.

From epic games to creative projects, every day is a new journey of imagination and discovery. Kids ‘R’ Kids is located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia. Additional information can be found at https://kidsrkids.com/ or by calling 813797-5497.

Buckhorn Springs Racquet Club

Do you have a budding tennis player?

Sign them up for summer camp at Buckhorn Springs Racquet Club, located in Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country Club at 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico. Camps will run all summer from Monday through

Visit www.buckhornracquet.com for more information.

Ostingers Baseball Academy

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

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

Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players ages 7-14 years old at the academy’s fields. The camp is priced at $275 per week; multichild and multi-

week discounts are available. Your child will develop a better understanding of the game of baseball through instruction, drills and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp.

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

The Mathnasium of Brandon center is located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For more information, visit www. mathnasium.com/ brandon or call 813655-MATH (6284).

Ostingers Baseball Academy is located at 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. To learn more, visit www.ostingbaseball. com or call 813-737-3000.

Mathnasium Brandon Offers

Math Skills

There’s no better time for kids to catch up and get ahead in math than during the summer break. Summer at Mathnasium is a fun and engaging way for your child to keep up their math skills and prepare for the year ahead. It has a proven teaching method that results in true understanding and increased confidence, along with reward opportunities and more.

Adventures Archery Join Adventures Archery for an exciting journey into the world of archery at its Exploring Archery Camp. This engaging camp provides young archers with a safe and fun environment to learn and develop their skills. The Intermediate Clinic Camp is perfect for young archers who have some experience and are ready to refine their technique, improve accuracy and build confidence. Both camps are designed for campers ages 8-15. The camps are located at 2210 S. U.S. 301, Ste. 200, in Tampa and will run from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. for four weeks over the summer. Visit https://adventuresarchery.com/ for additional information and to book.

EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE SUMMER AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY CAMPS

Looking for the perfect summer plans?

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers an exciting array of camps for animal lovers and thrill seekers alike. With over 12,000 animals and exhilarating coasters, the park provides a fun and engaging environment where children can connect with wildlife, explore nature and forge lasting friendships — all while taking a break from screens.

Busch Gardens’ camps are recognized as some of the best in the industry, led by highly trained professionals who make learning both fun and impactful. The one-of-a-kind day camps are open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade and run weekly from Monday, June 2, to Wednesday, August 6, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (with extended care available).

For older students interested in zoology, veterinary careers or pushing their adventure limits, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay also offers an Overnight Resident Camp for grades seven through 12, which

Staff Report

runs from Saturday, July 5, to Thursday, July 31.

For more than 25 years, Busch Gardens has been offering some of the most exciting and educational summer camp experiences in Tampa. Whether your child is interested in animal encounters, educational opportunities or thrilling rides, there’s something for everyone.

New for 2025 is the Wild Professions Camp for college students and teachers, running from Saturday, June 28, to Wednesday, July 2.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay summer camps are open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. With accreditation by the American Camping Association (ACA), parents can trust that Busch Gardens’ day camps meets high standards for safety, staff training and program quality. To learn more or to register, visit https://buschgardens. com/camps or call 813-884-4FUN (4368). Busch Gardens looks forward to another amazing summer.

Experience everything the fun of camp has to offer at the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA. Summer camp registration is now open for both members and nonmembers. Conveniently located across Tampa Bay, YMCA summer camps will run from Monday, June 2, to Friday, August 8, for those ages 6-15, Mondays through Fridays. Camp hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with early and late supervision available starting at 7 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m. at no extra charge.

Campers will explore a wide variety of activities each day in a safe, fun environment that provides the opportunity to build lifelong friendships and make memories to last long after summer ends. A few examples include swimming, science, arts/crafts, nature education, games, team building and more. All of these fun and educational activities are infused with the Y’s character values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Tampa YMCA summer camps are ACA-accredited. This means the Tampa Y camps underwent a thorough review of operations by the American Camp Association (ACA) — from staff qualifications and training to emergency management — and complied with the highest standards in the industry.

The ACA’s nationally recognized standards program focuses primarily on the program

quality, health and safety aspects of a camp’s operations.

New this year, the YMCA will have summer camps for the little ones too. Children ages 2-5 can enjoy the experience at the newly launched YMCA Preschool Summer Enrichment Camp, which will run from June 2 to August 8 — the same dates for the Y’s older campers. It will be hosted at the Bob Gilbertson Central City Family YMCA in Tampa Heights and YMCA Camp Sierra in Carrollwood.

Designed to spark curiosity and foster social, emotional and cognitive growth, YMCA camps provide the perfect blend of fun and educational enrichment to keep the Y’s littlest campers active all summer. It is also pleased to offer swimming lessons as an add-on to ensure children learn safety around water. This helps families who cannot enroll their children for swim lessons due to work or other commitments. Additionally, it is pleased to offer a sibling discount for those with older siblings enrolled in summer camps.

Spots are limited and fill up quickly. Register at https://tampaymca.org/letscamp. Visit https://tampaymca.org/ for more information. Staff Report

PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER CAMP AT THE PATEL CONSERVATORY

There are two things to know about the Patel Conservatory’s summer camps and classes:

1. Patel, the Straz Center’s performing arts education center, offers a variety of camps and classes in dance, music and theater for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.

2. They fill up fast.

“We always recommend that people sign up for our camps as early as possible because they tend to sell out as much as a month before they even start,” said Alice Santana, the Straz Center’s vice president of education and community engagement.

Music classes for younger students and all musical theater camps fill up the fastest. The beginner classes let children try out a discipline to see if it fits.

“We try to offer something that reaches kids at their level of expertise,” Alice said. “We have camps for beginners who just want to dabble in the arts and all the way to students seeking expert training to prepare for a professional career.”

Some students will be on to the next thing by fall. Others, though, may want to pursue acting, dance or music beyond the comprehensive but condensed camp experience.

“We’re literally cramming an entire school year’s curriculum into nine weeks of camps and classes,” said Stephanie Pemberton, in-

Staff Report

ternal clients marketing director.

Patel’s summer schedule also includes intensives, which teach a lot of material in a short amount of time, for advanced students. Some of them attend Patel during the school year as well.

“The students attending the intensives are dedicated,” Stephanie said. “Some want to pursue their discipline professionally. They want to increase their skills and increase their chops.”

Many Patel alums have established professional careers in the arts both on and offstage.

Former students have appeared on Broadway and in national touring companies, danced in some of the most respected ballet companies and performed live and on television and in films.

Others work as producers, directors, writers, stage managers and more. In fact, workshops on stage management, directing and playwrighting are on Patel’s summer roster.

Scholarships and other forms of financial aid are available as well.

To register for Patel’s summer camps and classes, or for more information, please visit www.strazcenter.org/patel-conservatory/ or call 813-222-1040.

TECO LINE STREETCAR TO STAY FARE-FREE FOR RIDERS

Tampa’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board recently voted to approve funding that will maintain free rides for TECO Line Streetcar passengers through fiscal year 2025.

The measure passed with a six-to-one vote, with Councilmember and CRA Board member Charlie Miranda voting against it.

Since 2018, the TECO Line Streetcar has been fare-free, funded by an annual $700,000 grant from the Florida Department of Transportation. However, that state grant will not continue into fiscal year 2025.

To cover the costs, the CRA’s Community Advisory Committees allocated funding, including $234,000 from the Ybor City CRA, $233,000 from the Channel District CRA, and $233,000 from the Downtown CRA.

“The Streetcar has been a very successful program,” said CRA Board member Alan Clendenin, who made the motion to approve the funding. “People spend way too much money on transportation. If we can eliminate the need to have a car payment, car maintenance and a car insurance payment, they can start affording housing; they can afford to live. This is the future of Tampa.”

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor was happy with the funding and said, “Our streetcar isn’t just for tourists to explore our great city, it is a

viable form of transportation for our residents. Keeping it fare-free can enhance the accessibility and mobility of our community.”

In fiscal year 2024, the TECO Line Streetcar set a new ridership record, with 1,330,932 trips taken, despite several service disruptions due to hurricanes.

Streetcar Service Schedule

The TECO Line Streetcar runs 11 stops between Ybor City and downtown Tampa, with service every 15 minutes (12 minutes during peak hours). The full route takes about 25 minutes. Service frequency and operating times may be updated as ridership and service needs evolve.

Tampa’s streetcar system dates back to 1892, when it became an integral part of daily life, connecting neighborhoods like Ybor City, Ballast Point, Hyde Park and Sulphur Springs. The service peaked in the 1920s, reaching nearly 24 million passengers in 1926, before ending in 1946, as cars and buses took over. In 2002, the system was revived, and today it supports the growth of downtown, the Channel District and Ybor City, while also aiding tourism and local commuters.

Visit the TECO Line Streetcar website directly at www.tecolinestreetcar.org.

MUSIC SHOWCASE AND THE FLORIDA ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS TO HOST ANNUAL SUMMER CAMP

Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts will host their annual summer camp this year.

The groups’ Music and More and Musical Theater camps will immerse young kids in acting, singing, dancing and more throughout the summer.

“Students will learn to work collaboratively, learn the art of stage character and development, choreography, voice projection while singing and speaking, props and working with a set,” said Danielle Sanchez, academy director.

Each camp will be two weeks long and fast-paced, she said. Some camps are in just the mornings or afternoons, but they generally run between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The earliest drop-off time is 8 a.m. and the latest pickup time is 6 p.m.

The Music and More Camp has full and half-day camps, with instrument, art, acting and singing activities for campers. It will also have themed weeks, with topics like Taylor Swift, Barbie and Ken and Pixar.

The Musical Theater Camp has productions for students of all ages and skill levels. It also has a Broadway Boot Camp that will

By Lily Belcher

be attended by Broadway artists.

Past summer shows have included Mean Girls, Newsies, West Side Story and Legally Blonde

While the shows have not yet been announced for the summer, they will be different than last year’s.

“This program begins developing body awareness on stage and giving the confidence to express themselves,” Sanchez said. “At the end of the program, students will showcase their new abilities on the stage.”

The cost for the camp is $275, with a onetime registration fee of $30. Families can also take a sibling discount of $25 off the same program over the summer.

Students should pack lunch and wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothing.

“As always, we are excited to work with new and returning students, to continue growing their talent and watching them shine throughout the camp and onstage,” Sanchez said.

To register, visit https://faopa.org/. The camps will be at Music Showcase, located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART OFFERS MONTHLY PROGRAMMING FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN ON THE SPECTRUM

By Libby Hopkins

Established in 1920, the Tampa Museum of Art stands as a beacon of culture and education in the heart of downtown Tampa. Celebrating over a century of artistic excellence, the museum offers a rich tapestry of experiences, ranging from ancient treasures to contemporary expressions.

The museum’s commitment to education and community engagement shines through its Vinik Family Education Center. This facility provides a variety of yearround art classes, insightful lectures, and engaging tours for all ages, fostering artistic discovery and learning. Through innovative outreach programs, the museum extends its reach, offering art-therapy-informed initiatives and creative platforms for diverse community segments.

One of its art therapy programs, called Art on the Spectrum, is geared towards families with children on the autism spectrum.

“The museum is always looking for ways to be more accessible to our community,” said the museum’s digital media producer, Caitlin Peterson. “One day, we had a guest mention that she had delayed bringing her daughter to the museum for fear of how her daughter may react to the crowds.

We started a conversation with CARD-USF regarding working on an initiative to ensure the museum felt more inclusive. After speaking with them both, they had a great time and thoroughly enjoyed the museum. Just conversing with them and letting them know that we have accommodation and would always welcome everyone, they were much more relaxed.”

Art on the Spectrum takes place on the last Sunday of every month at the museum from 9-10 a.m. No registration is required for this sensory-friendly hour. Guests can purchase their admission tickets online through the museum’s website.

The museum is proud to be listed as ‘Autism Friendly’ in the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) Autism Friendly Business Directory.

“Our full and part-time staff has received training from CARD-USF to better understand and address the unique needs of visitors on the autism spectrum,” Peterson said.

If you would like to learn more about Art on the Spectrum or other programs offered at the Tampa Museum of Art, visit https://tampamuseum.org or call 813274-8130. The museum is located at 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza in downtown Tampa.

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

MATHNASIUM SUMMER PROGRAM HELPS DEVELOP CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS

Summer is the perfect time to give your child’s brain a boost. Mathnasium believes that learning math doesn’t have to stop when school’s out. Its summer programs are designed for students from prekindergarten through 12th grade, making sure every child has a chance to build confidence and even enjoy the process of learning.

Mathnasium’s personalized approach ensures that each child gets the right support. Whether your child is in elementary school working on building a strong foundation, a middle schooler looking to catch up or get ahead or a high schooler tackling advanced math, its expert instructors will tailor lessons to fit their needs. Mathnasium helps students not only understand math concepts but also feel more confident when approaching them.

“We offer flexibility that allows your child to learn from wherever you are this summer, whether in-center or virtually,” said Mathnasium owner Becky McDaniels. “It is a joy having the kids join us in the summer to keep their math skills sharp. The kids have a huge opportunity for growth, as they can truly focus on new skills while reviewing prior skills without homework and testing stress.”

Students at Mathnasium will receive a comprehensive assessment and a custom-

Staff Report

ized learning plan that details summer goals for long-term success. Live face-to-face instruction is offered both in-center and virtually.

“Our hope for summer learning is that each child who walks in our door has a better understanding of math and potentially a new or increased love for learning,” McDaniels said. “We ultimately want to help the students avoid the summer slide and walk into their new classroom in the fall being well prepared for the new school year with a boost of confidence and a big smile on their faces.”

Mathnasium knows that summer is all about having fun, which is why it makes math sessions engaging and interactive. For younger kids, it uses hands-on activities and games that make learning feel like playing. For older students, it challenges them with problems that keep their minds sharp and help them get ready for more advanced work ahead.

Give your child the gift of confidence and growth this summer. The Mathnasium of Brandon center is located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Call 813-655MATH (6284) or visit www.mathnasium. com/brandon, where you can also get started and see how “Mathnasium changes lives through math.”

MAKING HISTORY: GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM RANKS AMONG THE NATION’S BEST FOR THE FIRST TIME

The Glazer Children’s Museum is making history by earning the No. 10 spot on USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, marking its first-ever ranking among the nation’s top children’s museums. This national honor reflects the museum’s ongoing dedication to play-based learning and meaningful experiences for children and families. It’s the only children’s museum in the state of Florida to receive the honor.

Designed for children 10 and younger, the Glazer Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits, interactive programs and special events year-round. Visitors can gaze in awe at Big John, the World’s Largest Triceratops fossil, and dive into dinosaur-themed activities. The museum sparks creativity and learning with exhibits like the Water’s Journey Climber, KidsPort and Art Smart, where kids can climb, race boats and create art. Children can also take on real-world roles as firefighters in Safety Village, veterinarians in the Vet Clinic or learn about the importance of healthcare in St. Joseph’s Hospital, where they can give a CT scan. At Publix, kids can shop, make sandwiches and practice their cashier skills. Budding performers can shine in the Twinkle Stars Theater, and toddlers can explore in Tugboat Tots, a special space designed for ages 3 and younger.

“This recognition solidifies Glazer Chil-

dren’s Museum as a world-class destination for learning and discovery, and a true asset to Tampa,” said Sarah Cole, president and CEO of the Glazer Children’s Museum. “Being named one of the top 10 children’s museums in the country reflects the innovative, impactful experiences we provide every day, and this honor only strengthens our commitment to shaping the next generation of creative thinkers and learners.”

Since opening in Downtown Tampa in 2010, the Glazer Children’s Museum has grown into a key part of the Tampa Bay cultural corridor, sitting along the scenic Tampa Riverwalk and inspiring generations of young learners. This first-time ranking in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards solidifies the museum’s place on the national stage and highlights its commitment to innovative learning through play.

The USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognizes the top destinations in various categories based on public voting and expert recommendations. The Glazer Children’s Museum joins an elite list of children’s museums across the country that are shaping young minds and creating unforgettable learning experiences.

The museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Visit https://glazermuseum.org/. Staff Report

HCPS

LAUNCHES NEW KINDERGARTEN ATTENDANCE INITIATIVE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FLORIDA PREPAID

Hillsbor -

ough County Public Schools

(HCPS) is putting students on the path to success by launching a new kindergarten attendance initiative in partnership with Florida Prepaid. This effort will reward strong attendance with college scholarships, providing families with an opportunity to start saving early for their child’s future education.

Recognizing the critical link between attendance and academic achievement, this initiative is designed to encourage families to make daily school attendance a priority. Each elementary school principal will award three $1,000 scholarships to randomly selected students from the qualifying group, jump-starting college savings for more than 400 students at elementary schools across the district. Additionally, kindergarten students who are present for at least 90 percent of school days during the challenge period will receive a $100 contribution into a Florida 529 Savings Plan. In total, this is a $1.6 million investment from Florida Prepaid.

“We know that consistent attendance in kindergarten sets the foundation for longterm academic success,” said Superintendent Van Ayres. “Every day a student is in

Prepaid.

Staff Report

class, they gain essential skills that prepare them for future learning.

Through this

partnership with Florida Prepaid, we are not only reinforcing the importance of attendance but also helping families take the first step toward saving for their child’s postsecondary education.”

Florida Prepaid, the largest and longest-running prepaid college program in the country, is making these scholarships possible as part of its open enrollment period, which runs from now through Wednesday, April 30.

“We are so pleased to partner with Superintendent Ayres and the Hillsborough School District on this attendance initiative because we know attendance is a critical factor in a student’s academic progress and, ultimately, their college readiness,” said Kevin Thompson, executive director of Florida Prepaid.

“We hope these scholarships help pave the way for future opportunities for kindergarten students across Hillsborough.”

For more information about the kindergarten attendance initiative, visit www. hillsboroughschools.org/attendance. To learn more about Florida Prepaid and college savings opportunities, visit www.myfloridaprepaid.com.

Music & Theater Summer Camps

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts

Located in Music Showcase Musical instruments, lessons, repairs, and more

402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon FL 33511

FLORIDA’S HOTTEST SHOW ON DIRT BRINGS TWO NIGHTS OF RODEO ACTION, MOUTHWATERING FOOD AND FAMILY FUN

Ready, set, rodeo! The all-new Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, stampedes into the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday, April 11 and 12. The best cowboys and cowgirls in the Southeast are saddling up for a full rodeo, featuring two action-packed nights of bull riding, bronco busting, barrel racing, calf roping, team roping and bulldogging. Feel the adrenaline as riders take on powerful bulls and lightning-fast horses in the ultimate test of skill and courage. Fans can come early for the Family Festival to enjoy live music in the Bartow Ford Beer Barn, delicious food and exciting activities. Guests can chow down on a variety of festival favorites such as corn dogs, barbecue, tacos, funnel cakes, ice cream, pizza, hot-pressed Cuban sandwiches and more. They can test their skills on the mechanical bull, try axe throwing, ride monster trucks and capture memories with the fan-favorite Tampa Bay Rodeo Girls, as well

as elephants, camels, snakes, monkeys and a giant hay wall. Spectators can cheer on the pig races, challenge friends at corn hole and giant Jenga and zoom down the giant super slide. As Florida’s hottest show on dirt, the event promises a night filled with dust, adrenaline and unforgettable memories.

The Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, is a community event featuring local vendors and area sponsors, including Bartow Ford, Beef ’O’ Brady’s, BubbaQue’s, Tampa Bay Harley-Davidson, Keel Farms, Monster Jam, Ring Power CAT, Tommy’s Express Car Wash and more.

Gates open at 5 p.m., and the rodeo starts at 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $40 for adults and $25 for children; prices may increase and be upcharged at the box office. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

For more information and tickets, please visit https://tamparodeo.com/.

Music & More Camp

• Free early drop off and late pick up

Full and half-day week-long camps, plus daily drop-ins

• Activities to explore instruments, acting, singing and art

• Themed weeks like: Barbie & Ken, Pixar, Taylor Swift, Superheroes

• Scholarships and sibling discounts

Musical Theater Camps

• Productions for all ages and skill levels

• Elementary, Middle School, and High School productions

• Broadway Boot Camp - Broadway Artists To Attend

• Visit FAOPA.org for shows, schedules, and performance dates

Past Summer Shows

Musical Arts For All Ages

Kindergarten students with strong attendance will earn college scholarships through a new partnership with Florida

KEEL FARMS HOSTS ITS 17TH ANNUAL BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL

The Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival is returning this month. This four-weekend event, featuring the spring blueberry harvest and fun for whole family, is presented by Keel Farms and Keel + Curley Winery in Plant City.

The 17th annual Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival, starting on Saturday, April 5, will be open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday in April (except for Easter Sunday). It has become one of the most popular festivals for residents and tourists on the Tampa Bay calendar.

The event spans the acreage of the Keel Farms property at 5202 Thonotosassa Rd. in Plant City, 15 miles east of Tampa, offering fun for all ages amid the beautiful backdrop of the Keel + Curley Winery and farm.

This family and pet-friendly celebration of the blueberry harvest features local food trucks, craft vendors, a kids’ zone, bounce houses, camel rides, a petting zoo, blueberry shortcake eating competitions, U-pick blueberries, games and special blueberry releases by Keel + Curley Winery and Keel Farms Agrarian Cider.

“Our Blueberry Festival is always a crowd favorite,” said Clay Keel, President of Keel Farms. “Many families make this

By Keel Farms

an annual tradition, and we love that. Each year, we try to make it better, and I know visitors will enjoy everything we’re offering. It’s not every day you can take a camel ride, drink a blueberry cider and go home with a bucket of freshly picked blueberries.”

Blueberry U-pick is offered each day of the festival while supplies last and weather permits. Harvested, prepackaged blueberries will also be available for purchase by the pound.

Admission is free, and on-site parking is $10.

Water will be available along with food and drinks. No outside food or beverage is permitted. Buckets are provided for U-pick, and no outside containers are permitted.

For more information about everything Keel Farms has to offer, visit www.keelfarms.com, and for festival information, visit www.keelfarms.com/festivals.

About Keel Farms: Keel Farms is home to Keel + Curley Winery and Keel Farms Agrarian Ales + Cider. Its mission is to grow people, community and agriculture by always providing memorable experiences through quality farm products and sustainable practices.

ELMIRA’S WILDLIFE SANCTUARY IS A SAFE HAVEN FOR EXOTIC ANIMALS

In 1998, Elmira’s Wildlife Sanctuary began as a collection of exotic animals by partners Ted Greenwood and David Kitchen. As Florida laws changed, and Ted and Kitchen realized the struggle of many exotic animals, Elmira’s officially became a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary in March 2006. By March 2008, Elmira’s moved to its current Wimauma location, when Ted and Kitchen passed away. Robin Greenwood, Ted’s wife, became CEO and board president at that time. It was reopened to the public in 2009.

Robin Greenwood said of Elmira’s Wildlife Sanctuary that “we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and a true sanctuary. We do not buy, sell or breed animals, nor do we allow public contact with them. We have an all-volunteer staff, so all donations and income from our tours and gift shop go directly back to the care of the animals and their enclosures. We are also members of the Big Cat Alliance, which is an international network of big cat sanctuaries and partners. All of our animals come from private owners who surrender them or facilities that close. Our mission is to provide continuing care and enrichment for exotic and wild animals in need of a forever

By Ashley Abene

home. This means we not only feed and house them, but we give them the best life possible in captivity, such as giving them the proper diet and medical care, enrichment and training for their physical and mental health and a clean and healthy environment for them to live in.”

On March 1, Elmira’s held its second annual World Wildlife Festival and Market. The festival was free to the public and offered discounted tours, face painting, food trucks, games and raffles.

For more information on Elmira’s Wildlife Sanctuary, visit its website at https:// elmiraswildlife.org. To help support Elmira’s Wildlife Sanctuary and view the exotic animals, tours are available to the public. Tour days vary, so regularly checking Elmira’s calendar is a must. Adult tour costs are $15 and children (up to 12 years old) are $7.50 in donations. Tours last approximately 45 minutes to an hour, and guests can view Stanley the grizzly bear, Lucy the leopard, tigers, lions, lemurs, birds and other exotic animals. Elmira’s can be contacted by calling 888-2935996. Elmira’s is located at 13910 Seminole Trail in Wimauma.

Stanley the grizzly bear going for a swim.

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

Bottom Of The Bin Craft Resale Store Opens In Brandon

Bottom of the Bin is a secondhand arts and crafts supplies store where customers are able to trade in their leftover craft supplies and materials for store credit. It has a wide range of supplies for sewing, scrapbooking, jewelry making, knitting, crocheting and more. This is owner Stephanie Cristou’s second location, and it is located at 626 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. You can find out more by visiting its website at www.bottomofthebin.com or calling 813-986-5882.

Simply Caring Companions LLC Brings Peace Of Mind

Local resident Cheryl Shields recently opened Simply Caring Companions LLC, which offers both companionship and homemaker services by appointment. Companion services include engaging in activities customized to their preferences, such as painting, taking walks, playing board games or simply enjoying a conversation. Homemaker services provide support with errands, meal preparation, medicine reminders and various other tasks. Simply Caring Companions LLC helps to bring peace of mind to families and independence to seniors. Contact Shields at 813-579-7502 or visit https://brand.site/simplycaringcompanions for additional information.

Valrico Welcomes New Reformer Pilates Studio

Pilates and Yoga enthusiasts in Valrico have a new reason to celebrate, as the grand opening of Prospective Pilates, a boutique studio offering reformer-based Pilates and yoga classes for all fitness levels.

Founded by Denise Papajorgji, a Pilates and yoga instructor, the studio is dedicated to helping the community achieve their wellness goals through group classes in a supportive and welcoming environment. Specializing also in personalized

instruction, the studio is proud to support breast cancer survivors with a unique opportunity to rebuild their strength and embrace life through reformer-based Pilates. The studio features state-of-the-art reformer tower machines, which provide low-impact, fullbody workouts.

Prospective Pilates invites all community members to experience the benefits of reformer Pilates.

Prospective Pilates is located at 4333 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico. For more information about the studio or to book your first class, visit https://prospectivepilates.com/ or call the studio at 813-690-8470.

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Brandon Massage Oasis Celebrates Opening

Brandon Massage Oasis recently opened at 1322 E. Lumsden Rd., in Brandon and celebrated with a ribbon-cutting from the Valrico/ Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce. It offers a wide range of services, including therapeutic, Swedish and deep tissue massages. Therapeutic massages focuses on relieving pain, Swedish massages are relaxing and aim to melt away tension and increase blood flow to your heart and deep tissue massages reach deep layers of muscle and are used to break down knots and relieve pressure points. Visit its website at https:// brandonmassageoasis.com/ for more information on the services offered.

Ballistic Dynamics

Ballistic Dynamics is a veteran-owned small business that has been providing firearms training, gunsmithing, self-defense consulting and firearms appraisal services to the South Tampa Bay area since 2019. After a successful 20-year military career, owner Wesley Senn pursued his passion for firearms and custom gunsmithing. He attended Sonoran Desert Institute and earned an Associate of Science degree in firearms technology. He is also an avid shooter and an IDPA competitor. He holds multiple firearms instructor qualifications from the U.S. military as well as the NRA and is an NRA-cer-

EYE ON BUSINESS...CONTINUED

tified range safety officer. Additionally, Ballistic Dynamics is federally licensed and insured.

Senn’s goal is to provide honest and consistent service for all your firearms needs, and he seeks to build long-lasting customer relationships built on integrity. For more information or to make an appointment, call 941-545-2158 or visit Ballistic Dynamics’ website at www.ballistic-consulting.com.

Summerfield

Amenity Center

Is Ready To Celebrate With You

Are you looking for a location in Riverview to host a birthday party, baby shower, sweet 16, anniversary, celebration of life or any other type of gathering? The Summerfield Amenity Center, located at 13013 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview, is the perfect location, seating 100 guests and over 2,100 sq. ft. of space and plenty of parking. Included in your reservation is table and chair rental, set up and use of an outdoor courtyard with couches and chairs and a pergola for you and your guests to enjoy. If you require WiFi and AV equipment, such as a projector, TV and microphone, it’s all included. Visit its website at www.oursummerfield.org for additional information and call 813-671-2005 to schedule a tour.

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Vejar said, “You have many choices when it comes to choosing representation in a real estate transaction. Rest assured, I will always go the extra mile for you.”

Visit the eXp Realty website at https:// elizabethvejarflorida.exprealty.com/ or call 661-802-9919 for more information.

Sun-Kissed Nutrition Now Open Sun-Kissed Nutrition is your local stop for healthy smoothies and specialty energy drinks. It has low-calorie, lowcarb and low-sugar options available, and they all taste delicious. Pre and post-workout drinks are also available and so are protein snacks, vitamins supplements and much more. Visit Sun-Kissed Nutrition at 110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. J, in Brandon. For more information, visit its website at https://davidbrooks.goherbalife.com or call 656-242-3659.

Family First Pool & Patio

Melanie Colón of Valrico is a wife, girl mom of two, a business coach with Rise Up Solutions and the founder of She Rises Collective.

SHE RISES COLLECTIVE LEADS WITH HEART AND AUTHENTICITY

By Libby Hopkins

“After spending 15 years climbing the corporate ladder, I traded in my power heels for a more meaningful mission, helping women step into their full potential as entrepreneurs and leaders,” Colón said. “I know firsthand the struggles of starting and growing a business while juggling the demands of life. That’s why I’ve made it my purpose to empower and encourage the people I most love to see soar, women.”

As a woman in her 40s, Colón was done with the outdated narrative that women are competition.

could lift each other up, support each other through the highs and lows of business and create a ripple effect of success that extends beyond just our careers, into our families, our local economy and even the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

Had it not been for the relationships Colón built early in her entrepreneurial journey, she may have given up.

“When times were tough and sales were slow, it was other women who encouraged me, who saw my potential when I couldn’t and who gave me a soft place to land so I could get back up and try again,” Colón said.

eXp Realty LLC Opens

Elizabeth Vejar is a local real estate expert who offers personalized service and builds lasting relationships. She recently celebrated opening eXp Realty LLC witValrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting.

Family First Pool & Patio is your local onestop shop for all things pool and patio-related. Owned by Butch and Olive Timms, it is located at 3644 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. It recently celebrated opening the store and patio furnishing side of the business with a ribbon-cutting attended by friends and family, which was great success. Family First Pool & Patio offers the lowest prices for pool chemicals in the county and offers a wide range of furnishings and wares for your patio. Visit its website at www.familyfirstpool.com to see more of what it has to offer.

“I’m here to change that story, not just for myself or my current clients, but for generations to come,” Colón said. “Together, we are building a collective of women who lead with heart and authenticity. No cliques, no competition, just collaboration, connection and real support. Because when one woman rises, we all rise.”

She Rises was founded in October 2024.

“We held our inaugural gathering on October 17 of 2024, and the energy in the room was undeniable,” Colón said. “This group was born out of a real need in the networking space. Women entrepreneurs needed more than just business card swaps and small talk. We needed a true community where we

“That’s what She Rises is about, creating that same kind of unwavering support for other women, so no one must go it alone.” She Rises is filling a much-needed gap in the networking space.

“We’re not just another group where you pass out business cards and hope for the best,” Colón said. “This is a movement. It’s about women linking arms, building each other up, and creating real change in our businesses, our communities and our lives.”

If you’d like to learn more about, She Rises or become a part of the group, contact Colón at melanie@riseupsolutions.net. She Rises Collective meets monthly at Edge Co.Space, located at 118 Central Dr. in Brandon.

She Rises Collective was founded in October 2024.

CREATOR CLASH 3 INFLUENCER BOXING EVENT WILL BENEFIT STAND UP TO CANCER

Real Good Touring

announced the third installment of the fan-favorite Creator Clash influencer charity boxing event

— Creator Clash 3 — will take place on Saturday, June 28, at AMALIE Arena in Tampa and livestreamed through Veeps.

The live-meets-virtual sensation, which has generated over 200 million social impressions since its inception, will fundraise for Stand Up to Cancer (SU2C) as its first exclusive nonprofit beneficiary. Presale tickets are now on sale.

Creator Clash 3 celebrates the spirit of community with a dose of friendly competition, uniting digital creators for the shared purpose of giving back. The highly anticipated event brings together well-known names from the worlds of gaming, comedy, music, cuisine, animation and beyond to be the premier creator boxing spectacle of the year.

“We’re excited to finally bring Creator Clash back for a third round,” said Justin Tracey, Real Good Touring head of events. “From day one, the goal has been to put on an entertaining show for the fans while making a real impact for charity, and this year, we’re leveling up. Charity has always been at the heart of Creator Clash, so we took a fresh look at how to maximize its impact. With Creator Clash 3, we’re not only setting up a more sustainable fundraising system but also creating really fun, interactive ways for fans and creators to get in on the action. With an incredible lineup of fighters, collaborative fundraising and a six-part docuseries that pulls you deeper into the journey, Creator Clash 3 is shaping up to be the biggest and best one yet with support from Veeps and Tiltify.”

Staff Report

Creator Clash 3 is proudly supporting SU2C, whose mission is to raise awareness and fund research to detect and treat cancers with the aspiration to cure all patients. Through Creator Clash’s platform, the event will raise awareness and drive donations via a series of fundraising initiatives — both leading up to and during the event — powered by Tiltify. These include creator and fan-run charity streams; auctions and giveaways with exclusive VIP Creator Clash travel packages, signed memorabilia and special creator items; merch drops; and more. The first charity stream will be hosted by Creator Clash co-creator Ian ‘iDubbbz’ Jomha on February 20.

In the lead-up to fight night, fans will get an exclusive, no-holds-barred look at Creator Clash 3. This multi-episode docuseries dives deep into the grit, grind, and chaos of training camp as this year’s creators put everything on the line to throw hands in the biggest event yet. The first episode will drop Wednesday, April 16, on the @thecreatorclash YouTube channel.

“Stand Up to Cancer is beyond excited to be the beneficiary of this amazing event, which brings together incredible creators who are competing for fun while also taking on an even greater fight — supporting groundbreaking cancer research,” said Andy Steig, SU2C’s influencer and gaming community director.

Livestream tickets will be available for $19.99 (presale), $34.99 (general public) and in person for $34.99-$450. Visit https:// thecreatorclash.com/. Ffollow Creator Clash 3 on Twitter @thecreatorclash, Instagram @thecreatorclash.

OF SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES

VALRICO MOM TURNS BLOGGING INTO A WAY

Rachel Lombardo of Valrico is a mom, a food blogger and a true locavore.

“We have been living in Valrico for the last 20 years and we love the community,” Lombardo said. “I was a stay-at-home mom for 11 years so I could raise my kids, and I did it all. I did it all. I was the team mom, I was in the PTA, I was on the Brandon Cowboys’ football board and then my boys grew up and didn’t need Mom anymore. I realized I needed a hobby.”

Her hobby became blogging, but not just any blog; Lombardo created a food blog.

“It started out as me posting pictures of things I made and recipes,” she said. “I posted pictures of my kids at their birthday parties, but then I got on Instagram and started posting pictures of the different restaurants I visited and the food I ordered while I was there. These are the photos that spoke to me.”

Lombardo loves bright colors, and food comes in many bright, vibrant ones, so it was a natural progression for her to start posting her photos to her Instagram account. Doing this took her blog to a whole new level.

“Food is basically a still life, and, in the pictures, you can edit the colors, so I’m now Tampa Food Mom on Instagram,” Lombardo

By Libby Hopkins

said. “This all kind of evolved during and right after the pandemic.”

Tampa Food Mom has more than 8,000 photos, and they are all beautiful pictures of places, restaurants and events Lombardo has been to since she started her Instagram account.

“In the beginning, it was just posting every so often, but now it’s posting pictures two and three times a day,” Lombardo said. “I do have a full-time job now, so Tampa Food Mom is my way of relaxing.”

Lombardo is always forthcoming with the different restaurants or businesses she goes to and posts pictures of.

“I always make sure I let the business owner know what I’m doing,” Lombardo said. “I don’t expect to have my meal compensated or discounted. I always pay my bill, and I also never leave or make any kind of negative comment on my posts. I want this to be a very positive place for my followers to visit.”

If you would like to see the beautiful and fun photos that Lombardo shares on her Tampa Food Mom Instagram account, you can follow her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/tampafoodmom.

Rachel Lombardo, Tampa Food Mom, of Valrico loves taking pictures and blogging.

Child Abuse Prevention calls to all of us for help. The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County invites you to learn more at a free annual event Wednesday, April 9, from 9:30 to 11am at the Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza in Tampa. There are many ways we all might help to reduce the risks across our region, including involvement with the local Children’s Board Family Resource Center. For more info, go online to childrensboard.org — & thanks!

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