Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop February

Brandon/ Winthrop

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February 2025 Volume 20, Issue 2

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CELEBRATING 23 YE ARS OF PUBLISHING POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS

11TH CARDINAL ROOFING CLAY SHOOT BENEFITS WE ARE THE ESSENTIALS

HURRICANE CLEANUP CONTINUES WITH DEBRIS PILE MANAGEMENT

By Brad Stager

By Sharon Still

Now that debris has been collected, county officials are faced with what to do with all the vegetation and solid waste.

The howling of the wind has died down, floodwaters have receded and debris has been collected; what remains are large piles of the collected vegetation and manmade goods.

How much debris? The numbers from Hillsborough County indicate that the accumulated total consisting of vegetation, building materials and personal possessions amounts to an estimated 4.8 million cubic feet, a volume that could fill Raymond James Stadium 11 times, per the county’s calculations.

According to Kim Byer, who administers the county’s public works efforts, finding a place to put all that debris is a major task.

“Following a major debris-generating event such as Hurricane Milton, there can be challenges in finding properly permitted facilities, as there is a large volume of mulch available from the projects across Florida,” she said in an email. “Mulch from debris collection activities resulting from Hurricanes Helene and Milton will be taken to a properly permitted facility that can accept mulch. Uses for this material may include composting, decorative mulch, biofuel, soil amendment and/or alternative daily cover at privately operated landfills.”

Byer added that a lot of knowledge has been acquired about dealing with an unprecedented mess like what the 2024 hurricane season left behind.

“Planners have learned how crucial communication and coordination is amongst

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the numerous stakeholders involved when there is a significant debris-generating event.

There were a number of different departments as well as municipalities that pulled together their resources, expertise and experience to

ensure we could carry out a successful debris operation,” said Byer.

Much of the debris has been brought to county properties such as the Sydney Dover Conservation Park, which has been closed because of the debris. Officials have not indicated when those facilities will reopen to the public.

While the large-scale collection operation has ended, residents can still dispose of debris with their appropriate regular trash pickups, adhering to regular pickup requirements, or take the material to a county waste facility. According to the county’s website, vegetative debris can only be disposed of at the South County and Northwest County Waste Disposal facilities, which also accept solid waste.

Three other community collection centers, located in Seffner, Plant City and Wimauma, only accept construction and other solid waste material.

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Registration These talentis now open for ed individuals the 11th annual who volunCardinal Roofteer their time ing Clay Shoot, and resources scheduled for have one goal: Friday, March making a dif28. This funference and filled day inhelping famicludes sporting lies locate their clays, a full barloved ones.” becue, a silent To learn auction and a The Cardinal Roofing Clay Shoot is a family affair for Car- more about raffle. dinal Roofing owner Bridget Wilson (center) with her sister, We Are The The event Essentials, visit Cassie Jenkins, and mom, Debbie Jenkins. will kick-off at 11:30 a.m. at www.wearetheessentials.

FishHawk Sporting Clays, com.

13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. Presented by Cardinal in Lithia. The fee of $250 per Roofing, the organizers are person or $800 per team grateful for the returning includes 50 clays, goody sponsors and are looking bag, shirts, sells, lunch, a for additional sponsorships, golf cart and beer “after the raffle baskets, silent auction guns are put away.” items and swag bag items.

The tournament’s tagline Join sponsors Chick-fil-A, is “Shoot for those who shot Phillips Creative, JF Kicks, for us,” and all proceeds DH2 Building Associates will benefit We Are The Esand others as they give sentials, a group of former back to the community. law enforcement officers Donations may be dropped and former military seroff at the Cardinal Roofing vice members, now private investigators, office, located at 1312 Orangewalk Dr. in who are providing search and recovery Brandon, between 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday for families with missing loved ones in an through Friday. effort to bring answers to those families.

“We can’t wait to celebrate year 11 with With a motto of “No one left behind,” this you,” added Andrews. self-funded organization recently became a Cardinal Roofing is a huge supporter of 501(c)(3) corporation, accepting donations area schools and other local organizations. and rewards on solved cases to offset the “Giving back and being a part of the comcost of investigations and purchase equip- munity where we live, work and raise our ment. families in is very important to us,” com“They are absolutely incredible and an mented Cardinal Roofing owner Bridget asset to our community,” said Rachael An- Jenkins. “This community has supported drews of Cardinal Roofing.

Cardinal Roofing going on 30 years, and we The group gained notability after assist- will continue to give back to the community ing in the Gabby Petito-Brian Laundrie case we call home.” and have successfully located many missFind out more and sign-up at www.girling persons in local high-profile cases. roofer.com or by calling 813-689-7663.

Expires: April 1, 2025

Page 2

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

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February 2025

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

THE GREATER BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: A YEAR IN REVIEW Staff Report

Page 3

ECHO VOLUNTEERS CAN HELP RAISE MONEY AT THE VALSPAR GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

By Lily Belcher

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce is ready to celebrate a strong 2025.

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce proudly reflects on a year of remarkable achievements, growth and community engagement. Throughout the past year, the chamber staff and board of directors have strengthened its mission of fostering business success, advocacy and networking opportunities, resulting in numerous milestones worth celebrating.

The chamber welcomed 75 new members, further expanding its network of businesses that dedicate themselves to driving local economic development. Additionally, the chamber hosted an impressive 60 collaborative events, providing valuable networking opportunities that connect professionals across industries.

A key highlight of the year was the launch of the Government Affairs Forum event, Good Morning Brandon, which received wide media coverage and provided a vital platform for discussions on legislative issues affecting local businesses. Another groundbreaking initiative, Business Builders, a weekly networking event held every Tuesday, was introduced to facilitate regular business connections and growth.

The chamber’s flagship Leadership Brandon Program celebrated an incredible 40 years of cultivating community leaders. This year’s class saw its highest participation in the past three years, reaffirm-

ing the program’s significance in shaping future leaders.

As part of its ongoing efforts to foster civic engagement, the chamber hosted the largest Candidate Hob Nob in Eastern Hillsborough County, providing residents and business owners an opportunity to meet candidates and discuss key issues impacting the community.

During a challenging hurricane season, the chamber played a crucial role in connecting businesses and the community to essential resources, reinforcing its commitment to community resilience.

Ending the year on a high note, the chamber collaborated to bring the Brandon Parade of Lights, a community holiday parade, which saw 75 dazzling entries and drew several thousand spectators, bringing joy and unity to the Greater Brandon community.

As the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce looks ahead, it remains dedicated to empowering businesses, fostering economic growth and strengthening community ties. With another successful year behind it, the chamber is poised for even greater accomplishments in the year to come.

For more information on membership and upcoming events, visit the website https://www.brandonchamber.com/

ECHO will benefit helps raise $6,000 for from the Valspar Golf the organization.

Championship for the And volunteers do first time this year, with not have to be immedisome of the proceeds ately associated with from the event going to ECHO to join ECHO’s the organization. volunteering team, Valspar will host its called TEAM25. annual golf tourna“This tournament ment from Monday, opportunity does give March 17, through Sunus a chance to have day, March 23, in Palm people way outside of Harbor.

Volunteers our geographic-limwho sign up to work ited service areas to the championship can \ Valspar Championship will donate some contribute to ECHO by join a team — one of proceeds to ECHO to help local families. just volunteering at a which is ECHO. For every shift worked by fun golf tournament,” he said. a volunteer on ECHO’s team, ECHO will McKinnon said it gives ECHO supportreceive $60. ers the opportunity to volunteer outside Steve McKinnon, ECHO’s development the Brandon area. manager, said it was possible for ECHO “They may have heard of us, but they to benefit from the fundraiser this year don’t get an opportunity to come volunbecause of its new fundraiser schedule. teer at any of our four centers that we Now, ECHO has the time to dedicate to have over here,” he said. raising awareness and gaining volunteers ECHO has two emergency centers and who can attend the tournament. two thrift stores, one of each in Brandon “Once you start going west into Tampa, and one of each in Riverview. almost nobody knows about us,” McKinThe money donated to ECHO from its non said. “So, with this tournament being volunteers’ involvement will fund ECHO’s up in the north part of the county and giv- three core goals, including helping faming people all over the greater five-coun- ilies find stable housing and preventty area, opportunities to volunteer for us ing homelessness for families at risk of when they register.” homelessness.

On top of the donations, the tournaMcKinnon encouraged people to sign ment will have a 15 percent match made up to volunteer on ECHO’s TEAM25 as possible by Copperhead Charities. Birdies soon as possible. for Tampa Bay Charities is partnering To sign up to volunteer for the tourwith ECHO and the Valspar Champion- nament on ECHO’s TEAM25, visit the > edwardjones.com ship as well. website https://trusteventsolutions.

McKinnon said his goal is the tournament com/event/140/home.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

BRANDON AUTO SERVICES:

NONPROFIT GRAZE ACADEMY CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF TRUSTED REINS IN HEALING AND GROWTH AUTOMOTIVE CARE

By Jane Owen

By Kelly Wise Valdes

B r a n d o n volved in the loAuto Services, cal community a trusted name and volunteers in Hillsborough with the sherCounty’s autoiff ’s mounted motive industry, posse. marks a signifHolland had icant milestone some advice, as it celebrates “Today’s vehicle over 50 years of is a major exproviding exceppense for everytional auto repair one, and when services. Under you have to the leadership of consider having President Stea repair done, ven L. Holland you should inand his longtime Childhood friends Ken Anderson and Steven L. Holland vestigate if business partner, have owned Brandon Auto Services for more than 50 years. a used part Ken Anderson, the family-owned business makes sense to purchase or not,” advised has maintained its reputation for integrity, Holland. “When considering the choice, personalized service and expertise since its first analyze the cost savings, the warranty founding in 1971. and whether the labor cost factors into the Specializing in a wide variety of services, situation. Used items that most people conBrandon Auto Services meets all automo- sider purchasing are wheels, mirrors, entive needs, from collision repair and front- gines and transmissions to save money on.” end alignments to air conditioning repairs The body shop at Brandon Auto Services and electronic fuel injections. Whether it’s is widely respected for its high level of routine maintenance or complex fixes, the craftsmanship and attention to detail. team is equipped to handle any job with Holland credits the business’ continued precision and care. success to the combination of skilled staff, “We’ve always worked well together,” a customer-centric approach and a strong Anderson said. “Steve handles the finances, presence in the local community. and I oversee the operations.”

Looking to the future, Brandon Auto SerThe duo has been working side by side vices remains focused on investing in its fasince taking over operations from Holland cilities and team to stay ahead of industry Senior in 1968, with official ownership trends. transitioning to them in 1971. Reflecting For more information, visit www.branon their early days, Anderson shared, “We donautoservices.com or call 813-651started out as kids working in the wrecker 2288. The shop is located at 3161 S.R. 60 yard.” Anderson, still an active part of the E. in Valrico and operates Monday through daily operations of the business, is also in- Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Graze Academy, a nonprofit organization located in Plant City, is transforming therapy services by combining counseling, nature and a connection between animals and humans.

F o u n d e d in 2022, Graze Academy is certified by Eagala (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association).

Graze Academy’s mission is to provide compassionate and transformative mental health services through the healing power of nature and equine-assisted therapy.

Equine-assisted therapy involves working through health challenges in a nontraditional format with professional, licensed therapists and horses. Unlike traditional therapy, equine-assisted therapy is experiential, meaning clients actively engage in activities with horses, which can include grooming, feeding and ground-based exercises.

Growing up, Graze Academy founder Christina Dawson participated in 4-H. Through 4-H, she worked with Horses for Handicapped, which is where her passion for equine therapy was born.

The therapists at Graze Academy have over 20 years of experience in counseling and have seen profound benefits of bringing therapy into nature.

“Our clients share with us that being in nature allows them to have so much more space and freedom to explore their feelings.

They explain that by utilizing our equine partners, they find the support and connection that helps them heal,” Dawson said.

Rachel Lane, a licensed mental health counselor at Graze Academy, said equine therapy allows her clients to feel more open to share on a deeper level.

“They’re quicker to get to the core of their problems because the excess stress and anxiety can be lifted quite easily in the open pasture with horses, goats and beautiful pond. Nature has its own healing effects that happens whether people like it or not,” Lane said.

In addition to equine assisted psychotherapy, Graze Academy offers individual therapy, couples and family therapy, life and recovery coaching, group therapy sessions, community education groups and life skills for neurodivergent teens.

“My client’s mood, presenting issue and also the horses help determine the direction of the therapeutic session, such as whether we involve one horse, the whole herd or just sit in the pasture and be with the horses,” Lane said.

To learn about Eagala certification, visit www.eagala.org. For more about Graze Academy, visit www.grazeacademyinc.org or email grazeacademyinc@gmail.com.

Graze Academy is located at 3102 Thonotosassa Rd. in Plant City.

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February 2025

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

BRANDON CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL ADDS K AND FIRST GRADE Staff Report When children can soak up facts like a sponge, the classical education model gives them those facts (this is called the grammar stage).

When children begin asking “Why?” about the world around them, the model guides them in seeking answers (the logic stage). And when children want to express their thoughts and ideas, the model teaches them through rhetoric. Most importantly, the classical model teaches students how to learn and guides them in loving to learn so they will be lifelong students, not just to pass their tests, get good grades and eventually land jobs.

This model has recently grown in popularity, as parents and teachers recognize how beneficial it is as an alternative to the methods currently employed in most U.S. schools.

“Because of this, classical schools are popping up around the country, including here in Brandon. And I am excited to announce that the beginning of this school year brought with it the first kindergarten class for a new classical school: Brandon Classical Christian [School], located at Westminster Presbyterian Church, which is also the home of Westminster Academy Preschool — a school which has served the families of Brandon and the surrounding area for 30 years,” said Jeremy Fuller, headmaster of Brandon Classical Christian School. “Along with that, I am also excited as we look ahead to next year

and are planning to add a first grade.”

Fuller added, “We are also planning on offering the stepup scholarship in the fall.”

This is all done not only with the recognition that Jesus Christ is the most important subject matter the school can teach but also with recognition of who the most important spiritual teachers are in children’s lives: their parents.

Parents spend the most time instructing, nurturing and influencing their children and will teach them some of the most impactful lessons they will learn, whether they intend it or not. And because parents are their children’s most influential teachers, it’s essential that they approach this role intentionally in both formal instruction and the way they live their own lives before their children’s eyes, as even their actions make statements that are oftentimes weightier than what their mouths say. Therefore, parents will and should be in regular communication with their teachers in the classical Christian model for education, including what was learned in class, how this can be reinforced at home, etc.

Brandon Classical Christian School is located at 402 E. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. To learn more about the school, visit www.wpcbrandon.org/bccs or call the Westminster Presbyterian Church office at 813-689-6541.

Page 5

ECHO’S CLOSET NOW AT HCA BRANDON TO PROVIDE EMERGENCY CLOTHING Staff Report HCA Florida Brangreat resource don Hospital has we have in this partnered with the community Emergency Care Help with ECHO,” Organization (ECHO) said Dr. Serto provide clothing esgio Martinez, sentials to patients in emergency need. These patients room physimay have had their cian at Branclothing damaged in don Hospital. emergency care, be Clothing homeless and/or are donations can in need support from be dropped Nurses and hospital staff at HCA Florida Brandon the community. off at one Hospital now have resources available on-site through Brandon Hospital of the ECHO a partnership with ECHO of Brandon. now has ECHO’s Closet located in its emer- Thrift locations: ECHO North at 424 W. gency department. It provides clothing of Brandon Blvd. and ECHO South at 815 W. all sizes for men, women and children.

Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. Financial “At ECHO, we are bridging the gap be- donations can be provided at https://echotween crisis and stability every day. Cre- fl.org/give-today/. ating a patient clothing closet at Brandon ECHO was founded in 1987 in partnerHospital is simply one more way for ECHO ship with the Brandon Ministerial Associto show the community our heart. We feel ation and the business community. It was grateful that Brandon Hospital has joined created so churches and others could send our cause to give patients access to much people in need to one central location. needed clothing. After emergency care, ECHO was originally housed at a local firepeople face many challenges to recover house and only provided emergency food and return to their daily lives. We feel that and clothing. At this time, volunteers staff we have a partner in Brandon Hospital in it completely. this process,” said Annmarie Macaluso, The hospital is located at 119 Oakfield ECHO store manager.

Drive in Brandon. For more information, “It’s important that when a patient is visit www.hcafloridabrandonhospital.com. being discharged that they are looking and HCA Florida Brandon Hospital is also feeling their best. By providing clothes, es- one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals pecially for patients whose clothes were for 2025, according to new research severely damaged in emergency care or released by Healthgrades, the No. 1 site to those who just don’t have a clean out- Americans use when searching for a docfit, we feel like we connect better with tor or hospital. This achievement reflects the community. We want to take care of Brandon Hospital’s unwavering committheir health but also their overall well-be- ment to exceptional patient care and ing. Not only does ECHO’s Closet connect puts the organization in the top 5 percent them with clothing when they are in need, of hospitals nationwide for overall clinical but we are able to guide patients to the performance.

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Page 6

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

PB&J MINISTRIES AT NATIVITY WILL CELEBRATE 20 YEARS

By Linda Chion SERVING THE COMMUNITY behavior and

FACE ACADEMY AT BRANDON FURTHERS DISTRICTWIDE SCHOOL INITIATIVE

The inaugural, in-percourse comson Family pletion,” Misand Commuciasci said. nity EngageAt the inment (FACE) augural FACE Academy Academy at at Brandon Brandon High High School in Novemin November ber, Principal 2024 served Jeremy Klein as a model said he was a of what’s to firm believer Photos courtesy of Linda Chion. come at a FACE supervisor Sandra Misciasci (Left) and Brandon High in the FACE similar event School Principal Jeremy Klein(Right) at the inaugural FACE A c a d e m y , s c h e d u l e d Academy at Brandon High, a districtwide Hillsborough County which ofschools initiative. in March at fered roughTampa Bay Technical High School. ly 20 workshops on a variety of topics, Together, the two signature events including mental wellness; empowering spread the word about the school dis- literacy at home and for college success; trict’s FACE offerings, an ongoing ini- literacy strategies for students in pre-K tiative that involves roughly 250 FACE through grade 12; navigating digital litambassadors at schools districtwide. eracy; using AI to aid with homework; Educators work with school and commu- financial literacy, including raising a nity leaders, groups and organizations to money-smart kid as well as understandfoster a sense of community and mutual ing and building credit; and creating and support driven to ensure student success. maintaining generational wealth.

“We’re trying to make sure we wrap “When I think about FACE, I think our arms not just around the kids but about our partners,” Klein said at the also their families, and we’re trying to do event in November 2024, where exhibiit in a very present and active way,” said tors included representatives from the Sandra Misciasci, a longtime educator YMCA, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s and now the school district’s FACE super- Office, Seniors in Service, United Way visor.

Suncoast, Feeding Tampa Bay, Lutheran According to Misciasci, more than 800 Services and the Florida Diagnostic and families reported back to FACE, through Learning Resources System. a survey, that they needed to learn more “As a community school,” Klein said, about social and emotional well-being our aim is to see how can the communiand financial literacy and workforce ty support the work on campus, and how skills. can we support the needs of the commu“Another huge component was literacy nity.” skills, all of which [have] a direct relaFor more information, visit www.hillstionship on a student’s attendance, their boroughschools.org/page/11200.

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O e ble im aila T d v ite re A m Li s a r a ard o F ft C Gi

By Ashley Abene

In the United Every othStates, there are er Friday, from 771,000 home8-11 a.m., anyless people. In where between Hillsborough 75-100 volunCounty alone, teers gather 1,893 people are at the Nativity currently homeCatholic Church less. However, social hall to Luann Leahy, make peanut Jim Courtney butter sandand Joan Court- Every other Friday morning, PB&J Ministries volun- wiches. There is ney have been teers gather to make peanut butter and jelly sandwich- also a drive-by es for those in need. helping with volunteer opthe homeless crisis for almost 20 years tion where supplies can be collected from within the Brandon area, by making pea- the church, brought home to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. nut butter and jelly sandwiches and then In 2005, Leahy knew she wanted to returned to the church for distribution. help people but didn’t know where to PB&J Ministries also gives out goody start. She had heard of a group in Sef- bags three times a year. For summer, it fner at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic distributes backpacks and school supChurch that handed out peanut butter plies. For Christmas, it distributes Santa and jelly sandwiches to the homeless. stockings and toys. For Easter, it disLeahy decided she wanted to do that tributes socks, bug repellant, pop-top for the local community. She organized canned food and Easter baskets for the a peanut butter and jelly drive, enti- children. tled Peanut Butter and Jelly Ministries PB&J Ministries is always looking for (PB&J Ministries), with Nativity Catho- volunteers to make peanut butter and lic Church. In the beginning, there were jelly sandwiches. But it also accepts only a handful of volunteers who came gently used items at the church and and helped make peanut butter and jel- monetary donations to gather supplies. ly sandwiches. But PB&J Ministries was High school kids are also able to use able to turn out 60 sandwiches a month. time volunteering with this ministry for After some time, PB&J Ministries service hours. began to make and give out 8,000 to For more information, visit PB&J 12,000 sandwiches a month. As of De- Ministry’s Facebook page at www.facecember 2024, 1,000,200 peanut butter book.com/peanutbutterandjellyminisand jelly sandwiches have been made try or stop by Nativity Catholic Church, and distributed. Currently, the ministry located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandistributes these sandwiches to 13 min- don, off State Road 60, to volunteer in istries throughout Hillsborough County. the social hall.

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February 2025

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

TAMPA BAY TO HOST HISTORIC FIRST MATCH BETWEEN AMERICA’S TOP WOMEN’S PRO SOCCER LEAGUES Staff Report In a matchup that will “This game repfeature Olympic gold medresents a signifialists, members of the U.S. cant milestone for Women’s National Team both leagues and and veterans of World Cup serves as a testacompetition, the Tampa ment to the growing Bay Sun Football Club has strength and visibilannounced a historic match ity of women’s proagainst Gotham FC of the fessional soccer in National Women’s Soccer the United States,” League on Sunday, March said Christina Un2, at 6 p.m. at downtown kel, president and Tampa’s Riverfront Stadigeneral manager of um.

Tampa Bay Sun FC. As the popularity of “Whether you’re a women’s sports surges longtime soccer fan across the U.S., this groundor just want to have breaking game will be the a great time, we’re first time a team from the excited for everyone Tampa Bay Sun FC will host a historic newly established USL Su- match vs. National Women’s Soccer League to join us at Riverper League has taken on a 2023 Champion Gotham FC in March. front Stadium for team from America’s other top-tier women’s this one-of-a-kind game.” professional soccer league — the long-esTampa Bay Sun FC is the first professiontablished National Women’s Soccer League al women’s soccer team in Tampa. The Sun (NWSL). light up the pitch, playing their home games Representing the 13-year-old NWSL will in a stunning, newly renovated Riverfront be Gotham FC, the league’s 2023 champion. Stadium situated along Hillsborough River A football powerhouse, Gotham FC’s roster, in downtown Tampa. Joining the USL Sufeatures multiple players from gold-med- per League’s historic inaugural season, the al-winning Team USA at the 2024 Paris Tampa Bay Sun FC is one of eight initial Olympics, including Rose Lavelle, Tierna Da- markets paving the way for a national exvidson and Emily Sonnett. pansion of first-division professional womTampa Bay Sun FC fields three of the top en’s soccer. With a shared vision to become goal scorers in the USL Super League in a global leader in the sport, both on and off Carlee Giammona, Cecilie Fløe Nielsen and the field, paves the way for increased opporNatasha Flint. The club will host the match- tunities for talented female athletes across up at their home field, Riverfront Stadium, the country, fostering growth and empowlocated along the Hillsborough River in Tam- erment within local communities. pa’s downtown, providing a platform to celRiverfront Stadium is located at 1701 N. ebrate the power and promise of women’s Blvd. in Tampa. For tickets and more inforsports. mation, go to www.tampabaysunfc.com.

Page 7

THE MISSING PIECE THEATRE

PERFORMS 37 OF SHAKESPEARE’S PLAYS IN 97 MINUTES

By Libby Hopkins

In July of 2022, April Golombek and Steven Bucko met Chelsea Young from the city of Mulberry. The city had recently renovated a beautiful old theater called The Gem. Golombek and Bucko were looking for a future home for a theater company that didn’t exist … yet.

“Chelsea was eager to have live theater at The Gem,” Bucko said. “It was a perfect match. We assembled the team and quickly went to work creating what would become The Missing Piece Theatre Company.”

The Missing Piece Theatre Company’s first show, The Plot, Like Gravy, Thickens, was in March of 2023, and what was to initially be a two-show season quickly became four.

“Between the support of our audiences and the amazing partnership with the city of Mulberry, we quickly realized that we had found our home,” Bucko said. “Our second season added another four shows and here we are starting season three.”

The mission of The Missing Piece Theatre is to create immersive arts experiences, stimulate curiosity and challenge audiences to join them in telling the next story.

“This season is a journey through the ‘classics,’” Bucko said. “Whether it is a silly look at Shakespeare; Anything Goes, the classic Cole Porter musical; the Disney [classic] The Little Mermaid Jr.; or probably the most classic American play of all time, Out Town, we are thrilled to continue to partner with the Mulberry community to provide high-quality theatrical experiences

for our audience, with the lowest ticket prices of any community theater.”

The theater group’s latest production is The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] [Again], which is one of the world’s most frequently produced plays. Featuring all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays, performed in 97 minutes by three actors, this fast-paced, witty, physical comedy will bring laughter for Shakespeare lovers and haters alike.

“We are thrilled to have John David Partain join us for his first full production at The Missing Piece,” Bucko said. “He as more than 25 years of experience in the arts throughout Central Florida.”

Local Brandon resident Fralia Colon recently joined the theater group as the stage manager for their upcoming production.

“I am honored to have been asked to work with three professional actors and a superstar director,” Colon said. “This is going to be a fast-paced production, which means I will have to depend on the amazing backstage and tech crew. It’s a team effort for sure, and we’re excited for the community to see it.”

If you would like to learn more about The Missing Piece Theatre or if you’d like to attend their production of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] [Again], you can visit its website at www.themissingpiecetheatre.org. The play runs from Friday, March 21, through Sunday, March 30. The Gem Theater is located at 118 NW 1st Ave. in Mulberry.

Page 8

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

CRISIS CENTER OF TAMPA BAY

INCREASE OF MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES WITH ADOLESCENTS

AND SUCCESS 4 KIDS & FAMILIES COMPLETE MERGER

BLOOMINGDALE PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATES

Staff Report

On January 6, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and Success 4 Kids & Families (S4KF) completed the merger of their operations. Programs run by S4KF are now being run by the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay as a core service area.

Success 4 Kids & Families programs help children and families throughout Tampa Bay. The S4KF team provides family-focused behavioral health and psycho-educational services to assist both individuals and their families. Its services include case management and community-based therapy services for school-age children and teens and specialized services for adolescents and young adults. Through innovative services, S4KF empowers individuals and families to build strong, healthy communities.

Success 4 Kids & Families was founded in 2005. One of its founders and its first executive director was Clara Reynolds, who later joined the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay as president and CEO, a position she has held since 2015.

At the beginning of 2024, the leadership team at S4KF started to explore the possibility of merging their services into another nonprofit organization to ensure the long-term growth of its programs. After numerous conversations and a thorough due diligence process, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay’s board of directors unanimously voted to merge

with S4KF. The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has served the Tampa Bay area for over 50 years.

The nonprofit organization’s mission is to ensure that no one in our community has to face crisis alone. The organization currently operates a telephone contact center that answers six crisis and community information lines, provides trauma counseling at three locations and through teletherapy, serves as Hillsborough County’s certified rape crisis center and operates TransCare Medical Transportation.

“We are excited to welcome the Success 4 Kids & Families team to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. This strategic move provides a tremendous benefit to our community. People who were previously receiving help from S4KF can expect the same services and quality they have experienced,” stated Reynolds.

As of January 1, S4KF ceased operations as a separate nonprofit organization and S4KF staff became Crisis Center of Tampa Bay employees. S4KF’s programs team continues to provide the same services as part of the Crisis Center.

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is located at 14905 Crisis Center Plaza in Tampa. To learn more about Success 4 Kids & Families programs and the center’s other programs, visit the website at www.crisiscenter.com.

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PUBLISHING POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS THROUGHOUT

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PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (never known to fail)

O Most beautiful flowers of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succeed me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times).

Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you.

T.O.C.M.B.

Page 9

RCMA RAISES $1.5 MILLION FOR NEW CHARTER ACADEMY CONSTRUCTION; ANONYMOUS FAMILY FOUNDATION MATCHES DOLLAR-FOR-DOLLAR Staff Report RCMA is proud to announce a major milestone in its capital campaign for the Mulberry Community Academy (MCA). Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of donors across Florida, RCMA successfully raised $1.5 million, unlocking a dollar-for-dollar match from an anonymous family foundation, resulting in a total of $3 million raised for this transformative project.

This critical funding propels RCMA closer to its vision of building a 22,000-square-foot, environmentally sustainable, dual-language community academy serving grades K-8. Located in Mulberry, Florida, MCA is designed to provide high-quality education to up to 300 children, focusing on low-income rural poor families.

“This milestone is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our supporters and the power of community,” said Isabel Garcia, executive director of RCMA. “Every dollar raised is an investment in the future of our children and a step toward breaking the cycle of poverty for families in rural Florida. The anonymous family foundation’s matching gift amplifies this impact, enabling us to bring this dream closer to reality.”

A Transformative Project for Rural Florida The Mulberry Community Academy officially opened in August 2024 with temporary classrooms that currently accommodate kindergarten through second grade. The main campus, scheduled for completion between 2026 and 2028, will provide students with a state-of-the-art educational environment and a dual-language curriculum that celebrates the bilingual, bicultural heritage of RCMA families.

The academy will serve families from western Polk County, including Mulberry and southern Lakeland. By expanding capacity, MCA will meet the growing demand for RCMA’s holistic approach to education, blending rigorous academics with essential wraparound services that

address the unique needs of low-income rural poor communities.

RCMA’s Commitment to Transformative Education Based in Immokalee, RCMA is Florida’s largest nonprofit provider of quality, early childhood education and a nationally recognized charter school operator. For nearly 60 years, RCMA has been dedicated to empowering children and families in rural areas by providing bilingual, bicultural education that supports academic success and social mobility. With this new academy, RCMA furthers its mission of creating brighter futures for Florida’s most vulnerable communities.

“This is not just a building — it’s a promise to our families,” added Garcia.

“A promise that every child deserves a quality education, and we are dedicated to providing that experience.”

Join the Mission RCMA invites individuals, corporations and foundations to join in this transformative project. Opportunities to contribute to the Mulberry Community Academy campaign remain available, as the organization continues working toward its goal of completing the academy and its campus enhancements.

For additional information, please contact Joseph Goldbach at joseph.goldbach@rcma.org or 239-658-3560, ext.

1059.

ABOUT RCMA RCMA is Florida’s largest nonprofit provider of quality, early childhood education and a nationally recognized charter school operator. RCMA serves people in rural areas living in poverty, primarily agricultural working families. RCMA has 54 child development centers and three charter schools in 20 Florida counties that provide a bilingual, bicultural curriculum to nearly 4,700 children annually.

Established in 1965 and headquartered in Immokalee, RCMA has a staff of 1,400 employees and more than 50,000 alumni.

Visit https://rcma.org/.

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 March 7, 2025 to respond.

Send all responses to: Hillsborough County Courthouse 300 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602

Page 10

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

DRUMMING DEEPENS ENGAGEMENT LIFELONG LEARNING PROGRAM LAUNCHES CLASSES AT USF ST. PETERSBURG

THROUGH MUSIC AT YATES ELEMENTARY

By Linda Chion

By Sarah Sell, University Communications and Marketing

At a perfor“obvious calls” mance last sefor “students mester at Branwho get the sodon High School, los or who are in Yates Elementathe ensembles,” ry School music but also for the teacher Katie students “who Thomas spoke aren’t front and proudly of her center” but are student drumsomewhere in Photo courtesy of Linda Chion. the middle. As a mers and the value she sees in Yates Elementary School drummers with music teacher result, students the World Music Katie Thomas (left) and Principal Lisa Varnum at Bran- “who had never don High School in November 2024.

Drumming initiabeen told they tive. were good at something or felt seen be“They get so much confidence” playing fore,” Thomas said, “now feel like they bethe drums, Thomas said of her students. long in our music class family.”

“They’re not as vulnerable as they would Thomas, with Yates Principal Lisa Varbe if they were singing. You can hide more num, was at the school district’s Family and behind the drum, but you’re also expressing Community Education (FACE) Academy yourself and gaining confidence.” at Brandon High in November 2024. The Thomas said she heard about the World inaugural event for the districtwide initiaMusic Drumming cross-cultural curriculum tive included workshops and community as an intern, before her first year of teach- exhibitors, and it preceded the ensemble’s ing in the 2019-20 school year. She said planned performance at the Winter Wonshe learned more about the program with derland event at Sadie Park in December. a grant to study the program in Naples.

Thomas, who is a FACE ambassador at The program now is part of Thomas’ Yates, said drumming makes music accesbusy teaching schedule at her Title I school, sible to all, and that, as with other music which includes five before and after-school groups, requires “students to work togethensembles. The other ensembles are for er to sound like one.” chorus, hand chimes, modern band and an At Yates, “we’re all one big music family,” ‘Instruments of Change Band’ that teaches Thomas said. “From the moment you greet fifth graders trumpet and clarinet. [the students] at the door, they just know In a post she wrote for the Florida Ele- that they’re at home when they’re in the mentary Music Educators Association in music room.”

September 2024, Thomas said she takes Yates Elementary is at 301 Kingsway seriously her job to build “lifelong music Rd. in Brandon. Call 813-744-8179. Visit learners” and her principal’s encourage- World Music Drumming www.worldmument “to make positive phone calls home sicdrumming.com for more on the mulfor students, to begin to build relationships tifaceted music experience aligned with with our families.”

West African, Caribbean and Latin drumThomas said she focused not just on the ming and singing traditions.

A popular adult • Carrie O’Brion, learning program that assistant regional offers classes, workvice chancellor for shops and lectures marketing, commutargeting individuals nications and strateages 50 and older is gic initiatives: ‘Buildexpanding to Univering Your Personal sity of South Florida Brand With Social (USF) St. Petersburg.

Media.’

This semester, life• Joe Askren, dilong learners can rector of the USF take courses covering Brewing Arts Prohistory, art, marketgram: ‘Intro to Craft ing, biology and an Brewing.’ introduction to craft USF has offered A group of OLLI members from University of brewing. adult learning proSouth Florida Tampa visited a butterfly garden The Osher Lifelong grams on the Tamas part of a shared interest group.

Learning Institute pa campus for more (OLLI) is a member-based learning com- than 30 years. It was officially named the munity that provides high-quality, low-cost Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in Feblearning opportunities for seniors in their ruary 2005 following a generous donation communities. The program has been highly from The Bernard Osher Foundation. successful on the Tampa campus for years.

The Bernard Osher Foundation currently It will launch classes on the St. Petersburg supports a network of 125 lifelong learning campus in March. programs at colleges and universities na“I think the OLLI programming will be a tionwide, with eight located in Florida. Each perfect fit for us given our downtown lo- program offers intellectually stimulating, cation and vibrant community. Many of the noncredit learning opportunities specifically people in the downtown area near campus designed for adults ages 50 and older. There are retired, have free time and are intellec- are nearly 1,400 members through the USF tually curious, capable and actively living Tampa campus. a full life,” said Caryn Nesmith, director of “It’s been a great program for us. Out community relations at USF St. Petersburg. of the 125 affiliates, we’re probably one of Classes are being taught by several USF the top 15 in membership, and I’m proud faculty and staff experts, including: of that,” said Veronica Maxwell, director of • Deby Cassill, associate professor in the OLLI at USF Tampa.

Department of Integrative Biology: ‘Ants An annual membership to OLLI costs $50, Reveal That Cooperation, Not Competition, and the average cost of an individual class is is What Makes Us Human.’ around $25. For the spring 2025 semester, • Gary Mormino, historian and profes- courses on the St. Petersburg campus are sor emeritus in Florida Studies: ‘Ten Foods free if you join OLLI as a member.

That Define Florida’ and ‘Florida and Registration for classes is now open. For World War II.’ class registration, visit www.usf.edu/olli.

ns 2/27 e Op rs. u Th

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CORNELL GUNTER’S COASTERS, THE DRIFTERS, THE PLATTERS

JIMMY FORTUNE

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Mon. Mar. 3, 3:30 $30

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WHISKEY MYERS Thu. Mar. 6, 7:30 $65

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Fri. Mar. 7, 3:30 $45

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Fri. Feb. 28, 7:30 $100

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Visit FLstrawberryfestival.com or call 813-754-1996 and get your tickets for the best seats available!

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LYNYRD SKYNYRD Wed. Mar. 5, 7:30 $70

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Concert dates and times are subject to change

• O’Reilly Auto Parts • True Frequency Products • Alessi Bakeries • Suncoast Credit Union • Florida Blue • Daiwa Massage Chair • Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association • Uncommon USA • ICEE • Local Ford Dealers • Astin Farms • TRUFFOIRE • Stingray Chevrolet • AMSCOT • Good Health Saunas • The Bank of Tampa • Netterfield’s Concessions • DIRECTV • Candyland Warehouse • Entenmann’s • South Florida Baptist Hospital • SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo • T-Mobile • Advantage Restoration & Contracting • Grove Equipment Service • Krazy Kup • Solution Source Construction & Development • Images Everywhere! • Master Spas • General RV Center • ALLEGIANCE Crane & Equipment • Citizens Bank & Trust • AT&T • BURGER 21 • Laser Public Adjusting

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

February 2025

Page 11

PIECEMAKERS QUILT GUILD CELEBRATES VALRICO/FISHHAWKCHAMBER OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS AT ANNOUNCES 4TH KICKBALL EVENT FLORIDA STATE FAIR SPONSORED BY EDGE POOLS Staff Report Staff Report

The ValriHer, so come co/Fishhawk out, have fun Chamber of and support Tournament Sponsor: Commerce this amazing April 5, 2025 (VFCC) is exlocal cause.”

Starting @ 8AM cited to host its Organizers (filled) fourth annual are still seeking $1,000 Event Sponsor VFCC Kickball base sponsors, Event Sponsor: To u r n a m e n t , teams, players sponsored by and volunteers $500 Medal Sponsor (limit 1) Edge Pools, on to ensure the $275 Field Sponsor (limit 4) Saturday, April tournament’s 5, at YMCA success. This $275 Food & Beverage Sponsor (limit 5) Camp Cristina family-friendly Funds raised during this in Riverview. event is open event will be distributed The event will to participants to the $125 Base Sponsor (limit 16) VFCC 2025 Charity of Choice: run from 8 ages 14 and a.m.-3 p.m. older. $325 Team (up to 14 Players, limit 16 teams) and promises a The Valriday of fun for c o / F i s h h aw k $35 Individual Player participants Chamber of Additional Information: and spectators Commerce alike. plays a vital Each year, role in supthe chamber The fourth annual VFCC Kickball Tournament will be held porting local designates a businesses and Saturday, April 5, at YMCA Camp Cristina.

‘Charity of Choice’ to benefit from the nonprofits through networking, business tournament’s proceeds. The 2024 event education and community involvement. raised funds for Raining Cats and Dogs With over 350 members, the chamber Shelter and Sanctuary, and this year the fosters meaningful relationships that goal is to surpass that total. help businesses grow while promoting The 2025 Charity of Choice is Hope for a ‘know, like and trust’ approach to netHer, a local nonprofit that offers women working. in crisis and trauma a safe space to reFor more information on registration build their lives with strength, support or sponsorship opportunities, contact and resources.

Michelle Leahy at michelle.leahy@tam“We’re excited for another incredible paymca.org or Mike Neill at kickball@ tournament this year,” said Mike Neill, valricofishhawk.org. YMCA Camp Crismortgage professional and kickball chair. tina is located at 9840 Balm Riverview “All proceeds will go directly to Hope for Rd. in Riverview.

Logo on all promotional material, communications and social media as the title of the event (i.e. "name of business" Kickball Tournament Hosted by Valrico-Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce) Logo on the back of the event t-shirt

Logo on 1st & 2nd Place Medals & Signage on Field

Signage on Field Banner as sponsor of that field.

Logo on all promotional material, communications and social media as the Food & Beverage Sponsor of the event Logo on the back of the event t-shirt Logo on the food & beverage table

Logo on all promotional material, communications and social media as a Base Sponsor of the event Logo on a Yard sign at your corresponding base.

Players Lunch & Shirts included.

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$15 Supporting T-Shirts (must be pre-ordered) Event Location: YMCA Camp Christina; 9840 Balm Riverview Rd. Riverview, FL 33569 Event Details, Sponsorships and Tickets available at www.valricofishhawk.org kickball@valricofishhawk.org

Piecemakers Quilt Guild of Brandon, a vibrant community of quilting enthusiasts, is proud to announce its recent successes at the Florida State Fair. Members of the guild have earned numerous ribbons in various quilting categories, showcasing their exceptional talent, creativity and dedication to the craft.

The Florida State Fair, renowned for its diverse and competitive quilting categories, provided a platform for quilters from across the state to present their intricate works of art.

The members of Piecemakers Quilt Guild of Brandon rose to the occasion, bringing home an impressive array of awards that celebrate their skill and passion for quilting.

“We are thrilled and honored to have received such recognition at the Florida State Fair,” said Carolyn Payne, president of Piecemakers Quilt Guild of Brandon. “Our members put countless hours of hard work and creativity into their quilts, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see their efforts acknowledged in this way.”

The guild’s award-winning quilts included a variety of styles, techniques and themes, reflecting the diverse interests and expertise of its members. Overall, guild members received 23 ribbons. Some of the standout pieces include: • “Take It Away and Give It Back,” by Nan Ryan — best in show, Hand Quilting.

• “Starry Night,” by Claudia Ingram —

best in show, Pieced Duet Quilt.

• “Seminole Patchwork,” by Linda Goodwin — first place, Quilted Household Item.

• “Singing in the Cherry Blossoms,” by Paula Paradis — first place, Original Design Quilt.

• “What Once Was Old is Now New,” by Linda Hitchens — first place, Machine Quilted.

Founded in 1989, Piecemakers Quilt Guild has been a cornerstone of the Brandon and surrounding communities, fostering a love of quilting and providing a supportive environment for quilters of all levels. The guild regularly hosts monthly meetings, bee groups, retreats and workshops and supports community projects, encouraging members to continuously learn and grow in their craft. Two upcoming events are its yard sale on Saturday, May 10, in the New Hope Church gym, located at 213 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon, and its Quilt Show 2025: Treasure Trove of Quilts on Friday, October 10, and Saturday, October 11, at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

As the guild celebrates these recent achievements, it extends an open invitation to the community to join their upcoming meetings and events. For more information about Piecemakers Quilt Guild, please visit https://brandonquiltguild.com/ or email info@brandonpiecemakers.org.

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Page 12

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

ENTREPRENEUR LEANNE CRABTREE 2025 COUNTY NEIGHBORHOOD RELEASES HER SECOND NOVEL EXPO IS AN IN-PERSON EVENT

By Libby Hopkins

LeAnne CrabC ra b t re e ’s tree is known new book is in the Brandon called The Encommunity as courager, and ‘The Cookie she is hosting a Lady’ because book launch on she is the owner Thursday, March of LeAnne’s Old 6, at The Plant Fashion Cookies.

City History & Crabtree has a Photo Archives servant’s heart Local Businesswoman and mentor LeAnne Crabtree is from 6-8 p.m. for the commu- hosting a book launch for her new novel, The Encourager, “In the book, nity, as she is on Thursday, March 6, at The Plant City History & Photo I lay out and tell always willing Archives from 6-8 p.m. If you would like to attend Crab- stories of ento help when tree’s free event, register at https://leannecrabtree.com/. couragers in my asked, but when God life along the way who laid it upon her heart have lifted me up, who to share her personal encouraged me, inspired story with the comme, through the good munity, Crabtree betimes and bad time,” came an author.

Crabtree said. “I also Her first book, God lay out some of the prinHas a Sweet Tooth, ciples and some of the was met with rave recharacteristics of how to views, and it laid the be an encourager to othpath for Crabtree to ers. Through this, you are become a mentor and going to gain influence, life coach. you’re going to lift peo“I never expected ple up and you’re going all of this to happen to make an impact.” and it has been an Crabtree hopes her amazing journey,” Crabtree said. “God new book will help those who read it. helped me every step up the way to write “A lot of people are walking around my first book and to becoming a mentor.” hurt, worried, scared and nervous,” she Crabtree was yet again motivated by said. “Encouragement is a big deal, but God to continue her journey as an author. also we have the opportunity to be those “God, my father and my husband, the encouragers for those in need.” three most important men in my life, said If you would like to attend Crabtree’s I needed to write my second book,” Crab- free book launch event on March 6, you tree said. “The last few years have been can register for it through her website, rough for a lot of people. Encouragement https://leannecrabtree.com/. The Plant right now is one of the most needed City History & Photo Archives is located things in our society.” at 106 S. Evers St. in Plant City.

By Brad Stager Hillsborough Recent expos County encomhave been held passes 1,266 online, a change square miles, that was made with terrain as because of the varied as the COVID-19 panrocky shores demic. of Old Tampa Residents will Bay in the north have a chance to the coastal to learn about prairie along its the various sersouthern border, The 2025 Neighborhood Expo will be held in person on vices the county consisting of indi- Saturday, March 1, in Tampa from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. provides on their vidual neighborhoods behalf, from code enthat are as distinct forcement to public as each of the nearly safety.

1.5 million residents Officials said that living here. The counrepresentatives from ty’s departments and the county’s departagencies are responsible for functions that ments and agencies will be in attendance allow the community to thrive and, im- and available to answer questions residents portantly, also make sure residents have may have. According to Agliano, while access to public resources. One way that there won’t be much opportunity to conhappens is the annual Neighborhood Expo, duct official business with the county, the which this year is being held on Saturday, expo is a chance to get a little guidance on March 1, from 9 a.m.-12 Noon at Feeding things like applying for construction perTampa Bay’s new facility, located at 3624 mits or public services.

Causeway Blvd. in Tampa.

The expo is free to attend, and county The annual event is a civic tradition that officials said they encourage attendees to spans two decades and serves as a way for register for the event to help them underresidents to get to know about the services stand the interests and needs of residents available to them as well as an opportunity and their particular neighborhoods. to interact with local officials and adminThe final lineup of attractions was still istrators whose decisions affect their lives. being determined at press time, but past “We’ve been doing this for twenty years,” in-person expos have featured plenty of kid said Stephanie Agliano, who directs the activities, voter registration and dynamic county’s engagement efforts with resi- displays such as fire trucks. dents, adding that what’s old is new, or at You can learn more about the 2025 least refreshed, with this year’s edition.

Neighborhood Expo by visiting https://hcfl.

“This year, we brought back in-person, gov/, and you can register by visiting the and we’re really excited about that,” expo’s Eventbrite page at www.eventbrite. said Agliano. com/e/1203745237409.

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February 2025

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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

Page 13

Page 14

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

0

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“One of the main A community plan is inadditions (under tended to be an extension Goal 3), based on and refinement of the councommunity input, FINAL PHASE ty’s comprehensive plan. The are strategies deDid you miss August or September meetings? comprehensive plan is general in the nature signed2024 forcommunity pedestrians, bicyclists and veNo problem; we’re hosting office hours! and provides guidance on issues coun- hicles to move around in the Valrico comWe invite you to take a few moments to learn about the Valrico ty-wide. A community plan is more detailed munity safely from point to point,” offered Community Plan Vision, Goals and Strategies before public hearings in nature and intended to provide specifi start in Spring of 2025.c Learnsenior more aboutplanner how this PlanAndrea will go from Papandrew, AICP. draft to adopted through the plan amendment cycle process. recommendations on issues raised by local Plan manager Jay Collins added, “The stakeholders.

Valrico No appointment is necessary.

QuestionsCommunity or comments are alsoPlan will only be part online or email.

The Valrico Community Plan willwelcome be viaofmail,the Unincorporated Hillsborough County developed in a process that involves the Comprehensive Plan. The Board of County BLOOMINGDALE REGIONAL LIBRARYdid not direct staff THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Commissioners community at each phase and discusses (BOCC) 1906 BLOOMINGDALE AVE, VALRICO 10:30 A.M. - 2:30 P.M. the special and unique characteristics of to work on the Land Development Code. At PlanHillsborough.Org/PlanValrico Valrico. the time of writing this, it is staff ’s opinScope of the study: ion that the strategies within the proposed • Create a communitywide vision. plan can effectively be implemented under HWY 52 HWY 52Code. If ad• Establish community goals. the current Land Development • Develop strategies to further goals. opted by the BOCC, the Valrico Community • Create a community concept map.

Plan will be the 23rd adopted Community Valrico by the numbers: Plan in Unincorporated Hillsborough Coun• In 2022, Valrico was home to about ty. Each community is unique and the plans 50,000 people, 18,000 residences and allow for these differences to be acknowl2,000 jobs. edged and utilized in planning.”

• Thirty-one percent of the population of Planners and representatives were availValrico is between the ages of 45 and 64 able for discussions on February 6, at the I-75 years old.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, loThis study will result in the creation of the cated at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in ValriValrico Community Plan. The plan will be co. To view more detailed maps and learn presented to the board of county commismore about the history of the project, visit HWY 54 sioners for consideration and potentially re- https://planhillsborough.org/planvalrico/.

VALRICO COMMUNITY PLAN OFFICE HOURS

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U.S. as of January, with the Lithia location becoming Florida’s 36th Whole Foods. By way of comparison, Whole Foods is a relatively small operation, with Aldi U.S. locations numLI T beringHIA 2,464 P locationsINEC and RE Publix numberST R ing 1,439 as ofOAD the same date.

Additionally, the same updated Lithia Crossing plaza site plans show a new traffic light installed on Lithia Pinecrest Road between Lithia Crossing plaza, anchored by Whole Foods, and the Shoppes of Lithia plaza, anchored by Publix. The signal, which has been in the works as far back as 2021, will allow a much safer access point to the grocers and tenants of either shopping center.

This additional signal will be the fourth within a 1 1/2-mile stretch of road, so the timing of the lights will be paramount to their success. Additionally, with Lithia Pinecrest Road planned for a widening from two lanes to four from Lumsden Road to FishHawk Boulevard, it will be interesting to see if the additional lanes will be accounted for at this time or revisited when the expansion begins.

Please visit www.wholefoodsmarket.

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Hillsborough County will welcome its newest Whole Foods store, as the grocer has secured a location in the Lithia Crossing plaza on Lithia Pinecrest Road, just south of Bloomingdale Avenue in Valrico.

The new supermarket will be renovating the locations previously occupied by The Fresh Market and Stein Mart to create a 38,000-squarefoot Whole Foods as well as two additional units that will be available for lease upon completion. This location will be only the third Whole Foods store in all of Hillsborough County, with Pinellas and Sarasota counties each having two locations. Kite Realty, owner of Lithia Crossing, recently revised the plaza’s site plan to show the 38,000-square-foot anchor.

What makes Whole Foods unique is the company’s focus on providing products free of hydrogenated fats, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives as well as banning over 500 ingredients in its food, beverages, supplements, body care, and household cleaning supplies. They are a USDA certified Organic grocer.

Amazon purchased Whole Foods Market in August 2017 for $13.7 billion. There are 522 Whole Foods Market stores in the

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February 2025

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 15

HABITAT HILLSBOROUGH VOODOO VALRICO AWARDS

RECEIVES $147,000 DONATION DURANT HIGH ART STUDENTS

By Brian Bokor TOWARD AFFORDABLE HOUSING Staff Report

With rising construction costs impacting the housing industry, Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County recently received a generous donation toward its mission of helping local residents achieve their homeownership dreams. Global architecture and design firm Gensler’s Tampa office presented a check for $147,500 to the nonprofit that will go toward completing the Habitat home for local resident Hector Ortero-Reyes and his family.

“As we navigate a changing industry, our commitment to providing affordable housing has not wavered. We’re grateful for community partners, like Gensler Tampa, who share in our commitment and donate their time, talent and treasure toward making homeownership a reality for so many,” said Tina Forcier, CEO at Habitat Hillsborough.

Following the presentation, Gensler Tampa staff volunteered to help paint and install doors and trim on the three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath townhome and other Habitat townhomes adjacent to it. Candidates qualified to purchase affordable homes through Habitat Hillsborough’s homeownership program, which includes contributing at least 300 hours in ‘sweat equity’ toward the builds alongside Habitat volunteers.

Otero-Reyes, who will receive keys to his

new home later this year, said he’s thankful to the volunteers whose efforts are helping him achieve greater stability and a brighter financial future.

“It is amazing seeing people being generous with their time and money, and not expecting anything in return,” said Otero-Reyes, who lives with his wife and two young children. “Owning a home is an investment in our future. I’m happy that my kids will have their own rooms and a safe place to play outdoors.”

Gensler Tampa has been a longtime supporter of Habitat Hillsborough and recognizes the organization’s impact on the community beyond building homes.

“We recognize that Habitat does more than build homes; it builds strong communities that foster a sense of belonging,” said Sarah Joubert, principal and co-managing director of Gensler’s Tampa office. “We hope that this donation can support the individuals and families in need of affordable housing and offer hope and stability for the next generation of homeowners. We’re excited and privileged to sponsor such a meaningful project where we can see our collaboration make a positive, indelible impact.”

Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County is located at 8247 N. Florida Ave. in Tampa. For more information, visit www.habitathillsborough.org.

On January 14, VooThe criteria for each doo Brewing Co. in Valstudent’s door centered rico hosted a private, on whether the door invitation-only event for was true to the Voodoo Durant High School’s art theme, the quality of department students, the student’s personal their families and faculstatement, the quality of ty for a scholarship certhe work and how well emony where $2,000 the door and personal in scholarships were statement aligned with awarded by owner Chris Voodoo’s core values.

Ciulla on behalf of VooAlthough they were doo Brewing Co. all 10s in Ciulla’s eyes, Last spring, 10 art three had to be chosen students were presented as winners. Congrats to blank doors as their canthe following: vases with the assign• First place — Aiden ment of expressing their Durant High artist Aiden Clarke took Clarke, (untitled). visions of opportunities home first place at the Voodoo Brewing • Second place — Jackdoor decorating contest. beyond the door through son Smith, “Remember their artwork along with a written narrative When.” • Third place — Emerald Gottfredof what the artwork meant to them. The sen, “Opportunities, Self-portrait.” event was held by Voodoo Brewing Co. not “Our partnership with Durant is an investonly to celebrate everyone involved, but also ment in the future of our community. By to raise funds for Durant’s art department, supporting students during their formative thanks to a 50/50 raffle held during the par- years, we aim to enrich their experiences ty. The doors are on display throughout the and create lasting connections to our town,” restaurant. added Ciulla.

Durant High School Principal Gary GraEach door will be on display at Voodoo ham; his assistant, Sarah Boyer; and art Brewing Co. for a year and available to purdepartment teachers Jaclyn and Aaron chase at the one-year anniversary celebraBowers and other staff were on hand to tion next fall, with all proceeds going back celebrate the award ceremony. Fun fact, the to the Durant art department. The contest murals both inside and outside of Voodoo will be repeated again next year with a were designed and painted by Jaclyn and new group of talented Durant High artists Aaron. displaying their skills and keeping the colThe scholarships — $1,500 for first place, laboration going between community and $500 for second place and a gift certificate business. for a dinner for four given to the third-place Voodoo Brewing Co. in Valrico is located winner — were awarded to the top three at 3432 S.R. 60. For more information, visit based on four criteria. https://valrico.voodoobrewery.com/.

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Page 16

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

DISNEY ON ICE FROZEN & ENCANTO SHOW COMING TO AMALIE IN MARCH

Staff Report

For the first time, Disney On Ice invites families to step inside the magical adventures of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen, the No. 1 animated feature of all time, and Disney Animation’s Encanto, the 2022 Academy Award, BAFTA and Golden Globe Award winner for Best Animated Feature, as they come to life like never before. This adventure on ice transports fans into two of the most popular Disney films as audiences can sing along to their favorite songs while embracing world-class ice skating, aerial acrobatics and more when the show comes to Tampa playing at AMALIE Arena.

Audiences will see Anna, Elsa, Mirabel and the Madrigal family live, as well as fan favorites Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and many more. Narrating the captivating story of Frozen is Olaf, the lovable snowman who likes warm hugs and all things summer. Astounding ice-skating transports families to Arendelle to be a part of Anna’s adventure to find Elsa, whose icy powers unleashed an eternal winter. Kristoff and Sven take fans along as they encounter wintry conditions in a race to bring back summer.

After a very Frozen adventure, audiences will journey to a vibrant town in the mountains of Colombia where they will meet the Madrigals, an extraordinary family who live in a magical casita in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Mirabel tells the tale of her amazing family and her journey to save the casita, her enchanted family home, alongside her sisters: Isabela, whose perfection radiates with her ability

to make plants grow and flowers bloom with every step, and Luisa, with the gift of super strength that she uses to help her village move buildings and reroute rivers.

In the end, audiences will learn that everyone has their own gifts, magical or not, and being true to yourself and loving those around you is what makes you special. YOU are the magic!

‘Family Fun with Elsa and Mirabel’ Character Experience Glide and dance your way into the worlds of Frozen and Encanto with music and dancing alongside Elsa and Mirabel, celebrating the amazing gifts that make each of us unique. Enhance your Disney On Ice show ticket with a preshow Character Experience that includes games, storytelling, crafting and interactive time with Elsa and Mirabel.

Bring your personal device for photo opportunities.

Note: Each guest (ages 2 and up) must have both a Character Experience ticket and a Disney On Ice show ticket to attend; children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Disney On Ice performances will be on Friday, March 21, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 22 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 23, at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or in person at the venue box office.

AMALIE Arena is located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. For more information, visit www.disneyonice.com/frozen-and-encanto/tampa-fl-amalie-arena.

Volume 20, Issue 2

PREMIER PRO WASH & SEAL PAVES THE WAY TO PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED PROPERTIES

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Premier Pro Wash the root. This meth& Seal LLC is a od not only cleans veteran and womthe surface but an-owned business also provides a lonspecializing in pavger-lasting clean.” er sealing, pressure Awa rd - w i n n i n g washing and exteriService and Cusor maintenance for tomer Commitresidential and comment mercial properties.

Premier Pro This past January Jeremy and Tiffany Forrest, husband-and-wife Wash & Seal is dedco-owners of Premier Pro Wash & Seal. marked the compaicated to providing ny’s ninth anniversary of serving Tampa outstanding customer service — from Bay and the surrounding areas. answering calls promptly to maintaining A Business Built on Service and Expe- communication throughout the process. rience Its commitment to excellence has earned “We served 20 years in the military be- it numerous recognitions, including: fore retiring in 2016,” said Jeremy Forrest, • Finalist in Tampa Bay Times’ People’s co-owner of Premier Pro Wash & Seal Choice Best of the Best 2024 for Paver alongside his wife, Tiffany Forrest. “After Sealing Services. retiring, we decided to go into business for • Nominated for Creative Loafing Tampa ourselves, and that’s when we launched Bay’s Best of the Bay in the Best ResidenPremier Pro Wash & Seal.” tial and Best Commercial Cleaning CompaWith nearly a decade in business, Pre- ny categories. mier Pro has built a reputation for excel“Our mission is to provide the absolute lence, offering a wide range of exterior best service possible,” said Jeremy. “That cleaning services, including: means being on time, reliable and respon• Paver, concrete and travertine sealing. sive. Our customers will never have to wor• House washing. ry about whether they can reach us — we • Pool deck, screen and fence cleaning. answer the phone, and if there’s ever an • Rust stain removal. issue, we’re here to fix it.”

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

February 2025

FAOPA STUDENTS BRING HOME NATIONAL AWARDS AT 2025 JUNIOR THEATER FESTIVAL ATLANTA

Staff Report

Students representing Backstage Theater, Center Stage Youth Theatre, the Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) and the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Academy received awards and recognition at the 2025 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta (JTF Atlanta). The monumental weekend dedicated to rewarding and celebrating excellent student-driven musical theater programs happened from January 17-19 at the Cobb Convention Centre in Atlanta, Georgia.

At the festival, each group performed 15 minutes of a Broadway Junior musical for adjudicators.

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts received the Excellence in Acting Award.

FAOPA’s Anna Beth James and Kat Baudoin were named Junior Theater Festival All-Stars, a select group of outstanding performers.

FAOPA presented Disney’s Aladdin JR. to Kelby McIntyre-Martinez, associate dean for arts education and community engagement of the University of Utah; and Bob Lenzi, Broadway actor (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Tuck Everlasting).

McIntyre-Martinez said, “Wonderful ensemble work, great storytelling!”

Lenzi added, “This program finds a way to feature many of its talented individuals, while also being able to step back into an ensemble and work together.”

The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization established in 2010 with the goal of supporting and developing performing arts throughout the com-

munity.

FAOPA offers numerous programs at different levels in order to encourage personal growth and to work collectively to produce productions that allow its students the opportunity to reach a new level of competence, self-esteem and confidence. One of the groups operating at FAOPA is the competition team. The competition team was established in fall 2021, and its past pieces were from Junie B. Jones Jr., Children of Eden Jr. and Once on This Island Jr. FAOPA has embarked on the journey of a second competition team, who has the exciting opportunity to attend JTF this year.

They will be presenting Seussical Jr. The growth in competition opportunities, participation and experience has exceeded its expectations.

Student Morgan Sheriff (2024 and 2022 JTF Atlanta) won a Sheridan Giles Technical Theater Award. Noah Ochalek and Morgan Sheriff (2023 JTF Atlanta) were added to the Technical Theatre All-Stars, a select group of students who worked side-by-side with individuals to help run events.

Students Mary Pope and Nicole Drake (2024 JTF Atlanta) and Timothy Addie (2022 and 2023 JTF Atlanta) made it to the callback for special projects or future video shoots for ‘how-to’ choreography videos. He was ultimately cast and traveled to New York City to film the videos (2022).

FAOPA is located in Brandon at Music Showcase 402 Oakfield Dr Brandon, FL 33511. https://faopa.org/

We believe that the choices you make to celebrate the life of your loved one should be as special as the person they represent. That’s why you’ll always find our staff ready to go the extra mile to meet your special needs and requests.

Page 17

GET READY FOR BBQ, BANDS, AND BEER AT THE BACK PORCH JAM Staff Report Mark your calentreasures, bring dars for an epic weekthe kids to the kid end of food, fun, and zone for nonstop live entertainment fun and enjoy reat the Hillsborough freshing drinks County Fairgrounds while soaking in on Friday and Saturthe tunes from day, March 14 and 15. talented local The Back Porch Jam bands. promises two days of With a mouthwatering bar$10-per-carload becue, live local bands admission (up to and exciting activities eight people), this for the whole family. is the ultimate Kick off your weekweekend for food end with the Friday lovers, music fans Night BBQ, from 5-10 and families lookp.m., as grill masters ing for a good fire up their smokers time. and begin preparing Scheduled musome seriously tasty sic entertainment eats. Groove to live including Friday tunes while enjoying 6 pm. The Fulyour favorite barbe- Don’t miss the Back Pork Jam at the Hillsborough cos, and Damon cue bites and cold Fowler at 8 p.m.

County Fairground on March 14 and 15. beverages.

On Saturday the Then, come back on Saturday, March 15, music kicks off at 11 a.m. with Ridge Counfor the BBQ Showdown. Gates open at 9 try followed by Jezabelle at 1 p.m. and wrapa.m. for a full day of fierce competition be- ping up at 3 p.m. with Crossfire Creek. tween amateur and professional barbecue “We’re excited to showcase some increditeams. Watch them battle it out for the ble teams & talent who will be bringing the coveted title of King of BBQ, judged by the best of country, bluegrass, and folk music to renowned Kansas City Barbeque Society. our fair stage,” said event organizers via soThe best part? You’ll get to sample their cial media.

The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are award-winning creations throughout the day, until 5 p.m. Competition categories in- located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. Tickets are available at the gate or in clude: Chicken, Ribs, Pork & Brisket.

Competitors wil be competing for over advance. For more information, visit www. $7,000 in cash prizes in two divisions includ- hillsboroughcountyfair.com/p/sub-pages/ ing the Master Series – For seasoned BBQ back-porch-jam.

Come hungry, bring your crew, and get pros and the Backyard Series – Perfect for ready for a weekend of barbecue, bands and passionate BBQ enthusiasts.

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Page 18

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

The Brenda Wade Team Loves SOLD Signs!

We are The TOP Team In Hillsborough County!

With $142 MILLION Sold In 2024!

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107 LOCUST DR

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5314 FISHHAWK RIDGE DR

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5923 SANDHILL RIDGE DR

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13111 GREENGAGE LN

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14846 HERONGLEN DR

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2708 W LAKE AVE

3918 S NINE DR

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5831 AUDUBON MANOR BLVD LD SO

6614 CURRENT DR

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7108 HEATHER SOUND LOOP

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11810 NEWBERRY GROVE LOOP

11944 GREENCHOP PL

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Direct: 813.924.8677

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Office: 813.655.5333

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

February 2025

We Sell MORE Houses!

We Sell For HIGHER Prices, And We Take GREAT Care Of YOU! Call Brenda To Get Your SOLD Sign In 2025!

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Page 19

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www.BrendaWade.com

Page 20

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

49-YEAR TRADITION: BRANDON ROTARY’S FLO RIDA AND GRAND FUNK WILD NIGHT OFFERS A NIGHT OF FUN RAILROAD SIZZLE AT BUSCH AND GAME FELLOWSHIP FOR LOCAL CHARITIES

GARDENS FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

Staff Report Get ready to tantaan exciting linelize the taste buds and up of musical acts groove to the beat! spanning a variety Busch Gardens Tampa of genres, ensuring Bay has announced new there’s something details about the 2025 for every taste.

Food & Wine Festival From high-energy and Concert Series, inperformances to cluding the debut of new fan-favorite artists, culinary cabins, exciting the festival brings headlining artists and an unforgettable — new this year — conconcert experience certs on Fridays. to the stage. This Taking place Fridays year’s musical perthrough Sundays from formances lineup Friday, March 7, through Lanyards for food and wine samplings are includes: Sunday, May 18, the now available for the 2025 Busch Gardens • Flo Rida — SatFood & Wine Festival. festival is included with urday, March 15. regular park admission. New this year, • Luis Fonsi — Saturday, March 22. headlining concerts will be held every Sat• Mitchell Tenpenny — Sunday, April 27. urday, with additional performances on se• Grand Funk Railroad — Saturday, May lect Fridays and Sundays. Guests can also 10. enjoy immersive photo opportunities, roamGuests can stay tuned to our website and ing atmosphere performers and additional social media channels for the latest updates, activities on nonconcert event dates. as even more artists will be announced soon This year’s festival will serve up all-new — there’s always something new to look culinary creations influenced by the vibrant forward to. Best of all, concerts are free spices and bold flavors of the Caribbe- with park admission, making it easier than an and India, as well as feature returning ever to enjoy incredible live music while safan-favorites spanning the cuisines of South voring the festival’s delicious offerings.

America and Europe. With a diverse seWith chef-curated and mixologist maslection of dishes to pair with wines, craft terpieces, live concerts, plus thrills like brews and cocktails, every bite offers a Phoenix Rising and the all-new Wild Oasis delicious new adventure for food lovers to opening this spring, there’s never been a explore. The best way to savor the festival better time to become a pass member. is with a festival sampler lanyard, allowing Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate guests to enjoy multiple tastes throughout family adventure, offering 300 acres of fastheir visit. cinating attractions based on exotic exploThe can’t-miss Busch Gardens Food & rations around the world. For more, visit Wine Festival and Concert Series features https://buschgardenstampa.com/.

By Libby Hopkins

Established in The whole event is 1961, the Rotary sponsored by Rivard Club of Brandon is Buick GMC. We are a part of the forereally hoping to take most organization the event up a notch for businesspeople this year.” and professionals The local charities committed to comthat benefit from munity and internaWild Game Night are tional service. RotaHigh 5 Inc., ECHO, ry’s motto is ‘Service the Angel Foundaabove self,’ and this tion FL, the Brandon motto is why the Rotary Club Scholclub has been hostarship Fund, Rotaing its Wild Game The 49th Annual Wild Game Night was held on ry’s Camp Florida Night for 49 years. February 21, from 6-10 p.m. at the Hillsborough and Hope for Her. “We do this event County Fairgrounds, located at 215 Sydney The club is very meWasher Rd. in Dover. each year to help our ticulous about the local charities,” said vetting process for Patrick Skidmore of the the local charities that Rotary Club of Brandon. benefit from Wild Game “It’s also great night of Night. delicious food and quali“Our hopes for this ty time our fellow Rotaryear’s Wild Game Night ians.” are to raise money for Each year, the these awesome local guys-only fundraiser charities so they can attracts outdoorsmen continue to make a diffrom throughout Hillsference and impact in borough County eager our community,” Skidto sample a variety of more said. “Last year, we expertly prepared wild game fare, includ- raised $111,538 for these local charities, ing the club’s famous venison chili, quail and we were thrilled we raised so much and wild boar dishes and swamp cab- from the event. This year, our goal is to bage. raise $200K, and we are confident that “We have about 600 guests in atten- we can do this with Wild Game Night.” dance every year, so that is why the Wild Game Night was held on Februevent is held at Hillsborough County Fair- ary 21, at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds,” Skidmore said. “We have all grounds, located at 215 Sydney Washer kinds of raffle prizes, gun raffles, and this Rd. in Dover. Tickets were $100 and puryear we are adding live music and a corn- chased through the Rotary Club of Branhole tournament to Wild Game Night. don’s website, www.brandonrotary.org.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

February 2025

Page 21

RAYMOND JAMES GASPARILLA BOB HENRIQUEZ SWORN INTO OFFICE FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS UNVEILS 2025 FESTIVAL IMAGE

FOR FOURTH TERM AS HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER Staff Report

By Doubletake Studios Inc.

GasparilHarper began her art journey la Festival of during the pandemic as an outthe Arts (GFA) let for stress. Her work resonatproudly aned with audiences, leading her nounces “The to apply to the GFA’s Emerging Fight” by Ashli Artists Harper as the Program, official image w h e r e for the 55th anshe was nual Raymond one of 15 James Gasparchosen illa Festival of to exhibit the Arts. This in 2024. powerful artHer debut work will procollection mote the event, sold out which will bring over 250 completely, setartists and 15 emerging ting the stage for artists to Julian B. Lane this year’s honor.

Riverfront Park, located “Being selectat 1001 N. Blvd. in downed as the festival town Tampa, on Saturimage feels like day and Sunday, March a powerful affir1-2. mation,” Harper Harper, a Plant City said. “It fuels resident, was an emergmy passion and ing artist at last year’s renews my purfestival, making this pose. I’m grateful year’s selection a full-cirand humbled to cle moment. represent such an “This piece is deeply inspiring event.” personal,” Harper shared.

The Fight will “I created it during a be prominently time when I felt like I featured in all was in the final round of promotional maa fight — exhausted but terials, ad camdetermined to truly live. I paigns, and merhope others find strength chandise for the in it, as we all face challenges that push 55th annual Raymond James Gasparilla us to discover resilience we didn’t know Festival of the Arts. To learn more, visit we had.” https://gasparillaarts.com.

• • • • • •

In front of dozens of supporters, family members and dignitaries, Bob Henriquez was sworn into his fourth consecutive term as Hillsborough County property appraiser on the morning of January 7 at the Frederick B. Karl County Center in downtown Tampa.

Henriquez, a fifth-generation resident of Tampa, took the oath of office from former Hillsborough County Public Defender Julianne Holt. Among those in attendance for the ceremony were Hillsborough County Commissioner Gwen Meyers and representatives from the offices Hillsborough County Clerk of the County Victor Crist, Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer and Hillsborough County Public Defender Lisa McLean.

After taking the oath, Henriquez addressed the crowd and spoke of being humbled to earn the voters’ trust to serve as property appraiser for a fourth term and his continued desire to make his office efficient, modern and transparent for the public he serves.

“In many ways, I want to view this fourth term as my first in the office,” Henriquez said. “For all the steps we

have taken to improve and modernize the duties we perform, my staff and I never want rest on our laurels.

We want to keep moving forward with the goal of making our office a model for other property appraisers around the

nation — and the world.”

Prior to his election as property appraiser, Henriquez served eight years (1998-2006) as a representative in the state house. A graduate of Princeton University, Henriquez also worked as a county planner and administrator for the Florida Department of Children and Families, where he oversaw approximately 300 employees.

Henriquez is also well known locally as the former head football coach at Tampa Catholic High School, his prep alma mater, as well as an assistant at Jefferson and Hillsborough high schools. As Tampa Catholic’s head coach, Henriquez led the Crusaders to 13 playoff berths, seven district titles and two appearances in the state championships.

For more information, visit the Hillsborough County property appraiser’s website at www.hcpafl.org.

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Page 22

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

A KITTEN PLACE OFFERS A SECOND QUEEN AND HER COURT CROWNED FOR CHANCE FOR OVER 2,500 CATS 90TH FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

By Lily Belcher

Jeffrey wasn’t the usufor the home. al addition to A Kitten Bass and Pollock Place — he was much founded the organizaolder and sick. But Mition after nursing a cat chelle Bass couldn’t just back to health, splitting send him to a different the costs to care for it shelter. Jeffrey, a grey and keeping it out of a cat, was one of the 2,500 normal rescue shelter. cats Bass’ orLast year, the organiganization has zation spent $200,000 saved. saving local cats, all B a s s of which was raised co-founded A through community doKitten Place Jeffrey, a gray cat, was sick when he nations and fundraisers. with Alicia Pollock to In May, the nonprofit was taken in by A Kitten Place. save cats they found in will host a golf fundraisthe community. From er, and in the fall it will vet visits to spaying or host its annual Black Cat neutering to finding fos5K. ter families, A Kitten The organization Place gives cats a second keeps track of roughly chance through its fos100-200 cats at a time tering program and reand focuses its attention turning them to the wild. on kitten season, which The nonprofit, volunBass said is in the sumteer-based organization mer. has been saving kittens, A Kitten Place also neonates and special takes in pregnant cats needs cats for over five and cares for the litter, years. something many rescue “We’ve grown this reshelters won’t do. ally big, amazing team And, Jeffrey has “reattracted a lot of talent- Jeffrey, a gray cat, was nursed back bounded” since being ed rescuers and people to health and found a home with the under the care of A Kitthat offer a lot of their help of the nonprofit organization A ten Place, Bass said.

Kitten Place. different skills to make “This cat is receiving this organization really kind of blos- love, and he is happy and he’s purring, and som into something we never thought it he loves his foster,” Bass said. could be,” Bass said.

For more information on A Kitten Place She said 40-45 volunteers actively or to see which cats are up for adoption, foster their cats, including several reg- visit https://akittenplace.org/. To contact ular fosterers. A Kitten Place covers all A Kitten Place, email the nonprofit orgathe costs, from vet bills to a litter box nization at akittenplace@gmail.com.

Staff Report

Gabriela Hagman was “We are so proud of crowned queen of the this year’s pageant and 90th Florida Strawberry want to thank the Plant Festival during the annual City Lions Club for their pageant held on the fesunwavering dedication to tival grounds in January. making this event a sucGabriela was selected cess,” said Florida Strawfrom a competitive field berry Festival Chairman of 26 contestants. MacDanny Coton. “All the ey Faith Riley was named contestants demonstratfirst maid, with court ed incredible effort and members Makinley Jencommitment, and I have sen, Olivia Paige Lawton no doubt the queen and and Abigail Lee Mullis her court will represent rounding out the royal the festival and the comcourt. munity with great pride “I feel so overwhelmed. Queen of the 90th Florida Strawberry and enthusiasm.”

I’m so honored to be givThroughout the year, Festival Gabriela Hagman. en this opportunity,” the queen and her said Gabriela. “I just court will make over feel so grateful that I 80 appearances, rephave been given this resenting the Florida moment, and it still doesn’t feel real, if I’m Strawberry Festival and the Plant City combeing completely transparent. I feel like I’m munity at various local and regional events. in someone else’s body right now, but I’m Coton added, “Celebrating our 90th year just so grateful, and I’m so ready.” is a huge milestone for the festival, and Gabriela is the daughter of Christopher we’re looking forward to seeing the entire and Jacqueline Hagman. She is a senior at community come together.”

Durant High. School and serves as a member The 2025 Florida Strawberry Festival of the orchestra, chamber orchestra, chorus, will take place from Thursday, February 27, show choir and is the vice president of both to Sunday, March 9, in Plant City. Festival the Choral Department and Durant Theatre hours are 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, featuring a Company, Troupe 5444. She is also a senior wide range of activities, entertainment and youth advisor at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal exhibits. Visitors can look forward to liveChurch. Gabriela plans to pursue a career in stock shows, midway rides, food, games and multimedia journalism and become a news headline performances by artists like Reba anchor.

McEntire, Whiskey Myers, John Fogerty, The Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Lynyrd Skynyrd, Nelly, The Beach Boys and Competition is organized by the Plant City much more.

Lions Club and includes five main compoVisit https://flstrawberryfestival.com/, nents: a personal interview, onstage speak- and follow the festival on Facebook, Insing, casual wear, evening wear and an im- tagram, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok promptu question. (#BerryFest25).

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

February 2025

ISAIAH 117 HOUSE PROVIDES PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT TO CHILDREN IN NEED IN OUR COMMUNITY

By Libby Hopkins

Isaiah 117 sitting in such a House is a new, sterile, cold enlocal nonprofit vironment while that has joined waiting to learn the Tampa Bay their fate. That community. is when she beWhen children lieved God put are removed in her heart the from their homes idea of creatout of concern Isaiah 117 House is a new and local nonprofit that has ing Isaiah 117 joined the Tampa Bay community, providing foster for their safety, House. The nonchildren with a safe, loving and comfortable environment they are usual- where they can wait until they are placed in a foster home. profit got its ly brought to a name from the child welfare services office to await place- Bible verse Isaiah 1:17, which says, “Defend ment. This wait can be a few hours to sev- the cause of the fatherless.” eral days. These children often have nothing The couple opened their first Isaiah 117 with them and are scared, lonely, hungry House in Tennessee in 2017. Since then, and in dirty clothing. Isaiah 117 House’s the Paulsons have been opening Isaiah 117 purpose is to help these children.

Houses all over the United States. They cur“Isaiah 117 provides a comforting home rently have homes in Sarasota, Orlando and where these children instead can be now Tampa. brought to wait,” said Kayla Bain, Isaiah The mission of Isaiah 117 House is three117 House’s location leader for Hillsbor- fold process. The first is to reduce trauma for ough County. “The home is a place that is children awaiting placement. Secondly, lightsafe with friendly and loving volunteers en the load for child welfare services. Thirdly, who provide clean clothes, smiles, toys and to ease the transition for foster families. snuggly blankets. This space allows chil“We are new nonprofit to Hillsborough dren to receive the comfort and care they County and our latest Isaiah 117 House need while child welfare staff can do the is being built just 15 minutes outside of necessary paperwork and identify a good the Brandon community,” Bain said. “We placement.” are looking to the Brandon community to Isaiah 117 House was originally started help with donating items to help our chilby Rhonda and Corey Paulson of Tennessee. dren feel more at home during their time The couple started the nonprofit after they at an Isaiah 117 House as well as spread went through training to become foster the word about our mission and what we parents. During that class, the couple was do for children who are transitioning into informed that when children are removed foster care.” from their homes, they often must go to If you would like to learn more about Isathe DCS office and wait for placement. As iah 117 House or become involved with the Rhonda looked around the cubicle-filled organization, visit www.isaiah117house. space, she couldn’t imagine a scared child com or contact Bain at 813-428-2966.

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Page 23

Scholarships, Food Trucks, Talent Show, Corvette Raffle & More...

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Community Action Board Scholarships

The Community Action Board of Hillsborough County represents the lower-income population of East Hillsborough County.

It offers two $2,500 and four $5,000 year scholarships for both technical colleges and four-year universities. Students can also reapply each year for funding. Applicants must be Hillsborough County residents, have a minimum 2.0 GPA and have a household income below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Applications can be found at www.hcfl.gov/education. The deadline for applications is Friday, March 14.

Bloomingdale’s Treasures

Tastes

And

The Tampa Elks Lodge #708 gifted the Liberty Manor for Veterans with $1,000 worth of gas gift certificates, making it possible to provide veterans transportation to and from the veterans hospital and other events that they could not attend due to financial restraints

drawing will take place on Sunday, March 9, at 5 p.m.

Impact’s Got Talent

Impact, a local charity promoting healthy lifestyles and relationships to teens, parents, teachers and other youth leaders through classroom education, is holding its Impact’s Got Talent event on Friday, April 11. The event will take place at Fellowship Baptist Church of Thonotosassa, located at 13515 U.S. 301 in Thonotosassa. Impact is looking for vocalists, actors, dancers (solos, duets and groups), musicians, etc., from grades K-12 to audition for the event. All acts must be under three minutes long. The grand prize is $250. Auditions will be held Sunday, March 9, from 1-5 p.m. at Dance Quest International, located at 853 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. Contact Jennifer Crum at 863661-3236 or crummiej2@gmail.com for an audition time.

The Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association are having a spring food truck event.

Go out for an afternoon full of great eats and unique finds. The event will take place on Saturday, March 8, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Park and Ride parking lot next to the Rep. Laurel Lee Celebrates LoCampo Family YMCA. There will be food cal Frontline Heroes trucks serving Congresswoman Laurel Lee (R-FL) reup delicious cently held a ceremony honoring Plant City bites, plus craft vendors and small business owners selling their handmade items. You’ll find everything from pillows to T-shirts to custom tumblers and more.

The Florida Strawberry Festival Raffles A 2025 Corvette For Charity

The Florida Strawberry Festival is proud to announce its continued partnership with Stingray Chevrolet and Unity in the Community for the 16th annual Chevrolet Charity Raffle. This year’s raffle features a brand-new 2025 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible 2LT, generously donated

by Stingray Chevrolet, with all proceeds benefiting Unity in the Community, a local organization dedicated to supporting underprivileged families and youth programs in Plant City. To enter, please visit www.stingraychevrolet.com/chevrolet-charity-raffle-entry-form/. Tickets are $5 each, and the

Damage Controlman 3rd Class Abigail Alejo from Plant City performs maintenance aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) during an inspection with the Board of Inspection and Survey.

Firefighter Battalion Chief James Wingo and Firefighter of the Year Captain Jason Mesa and celebrating newly sworn-in firefighters Cameron Hall, John Furlow and Christian Torres. Lee presented honorees with a Congressional Certificate recognizing exemplary character and service.

“Our local firefighters and first responders risk their lives in the face of danger to keep us safe when our community is in need. It was my honor to recognize and celebrate a few of our local heroes by presenting them with Congressional Certificates,” said Lee.

the air!

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Congresswoman Laurel Lee presenting Congressional Certificates to Plant City Firefighter Battalion Chief James Wingo and Firefighter of the Year Captain Jason Mesa.

Page 24

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

GREAT SHOWS STILL TO COME IN STRAZ BROADWAY SEASON

Staff Report

Just a few weeks into the new funny like economists. Featuring a year and there are still some big book by Tony Award winner Robshows coming to the Bank of Amerert Horn (Tootsie), a score by the ica Broadway at the Straz season.

Grammy Award–winning songwritThe series, supported in part by ing team of Brandy Clark and Shane the Tampa Bay Times, official meMcAnally (Kacey Musgraves’ “Foldia sponsor of the Straz, continues low Your Arrow”) and directed by with A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien Diamond Musical, MJ the Musical, (Hairspray), this corn-fed, cornMystic Pizza, Shucked and a threebred American musical is sure to week engagement of Disney’s The satisfy your appetite for great muLion King. The season ahead also sical theater.

Photo Credit: Deen Van Meer.

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman. features an encore engagement of Darian Sanders as Simba. The Lion King North American In addition to the nine-show Ashley D. Kelley and Grey Henson in Shucked.

MAMMA MIA! Broadway series, The Straz will Tour ©Disney.

Broadway’s most A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diapresent the return engagement of: Created by Tony recognizable mumond Musical MAMMA MIA! Award-winning sic, crafted by Tuesday, February 11, through Sunday, director/choreNow through Sunday, February 2 Tony Award-winFebruary 16 A mother. A daughter. Three possible ographer Chrisning artists Elton dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll nevCreated in collaboration with Neil Di- topher Wheeldon John and Tim er forget. amond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the and two-time PuRice. There is uplifting true story of how a kid from litzer Prize winSet on a Greek island paradise where the simply nothing sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship Brooklyn became a chartbusting, show- ner Lynn Nottage, else like The Lion and identity is beautifully told through the stopping American rock icon. With 120 MJ goes beyond million albums sold, a catalogue of clas- the singular moves and signature sound King. timeless hits of ABBA. On the eve of her Mystic Pizza sics like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans” of the star, offering a rare look at the crewedding, a daughter’s quest to discover Tuesday, April 29, through Sunday, May 4 the father she’s never known brings three and “Sweet Caroline,” an induction into ative mind and collaborative spirit that Based on the beloved 1988 MGM rom- men from her mother’s past back to the the Songwriters and Rock & Roll halls of catapulted Jackson into legendary status. com that launched the career of Julia Rob- island they last visited decades ago. fame, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Disney’s The Lion King erts, Mystic Pizza is a new musical about Award and sold-out concerts around the For show ticket information, call the Wednesday, April 2, through Sunday, three working-class girls who navigate Straz Center Ticket Sales Office at 813world that made him bigger than Elvis, April 20 Diamond’s story was made to shine on More than 100 million people around the complexities of life, love and family in 229-STAR (7827) or, if located outside the Broadway — and head out on the road the world have experienced the phenome- a small-town pizza joint serving everyone Tampa Bay area, at 800-955-1045, or visacross America. non of Disney’s The Lion King, and now you from the townies to the privileged country it www.strazcenter.org.

MJ the Musical The David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the can too when Tampa’s best-loved musical club set. And what’s in that secret sauce, Tuesday, February 25, through Sunday, returns to the Straz Center. Winner of six you ask? The hits of the ’80s and ’90s! The Performing Arts and its programs are March 2 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this hit songs range from “Girls Just Want to funded in part by the City of Tampa; the He is one of the greatest entertain- landmark musical event brings togeth- Have Fun” to “Hold On” to “Nothing’s Gon- Hillsborough County Board of County ers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s er one of the most imaginative creative na Stop Us Now.” Commissioners; the Tourist Development Shucked unique and unparalleled artistry comes to teams on Broadway. Tony Award-winning Council/Hillsborough County; the State of Tuesday, June 3, through Sunday, June 8 Florida, Department of State, Division of Tampa as MJ the Musical, the multi-Tony director Julie Taymor brings to life a story Shucked is the Tony Award-winning mu- Arts and Culture and the Florida Council Award-winning, new musical centered filled with hope and adventure set against around the making of the 1992 Danger- an amazing backdrop of stunning visu- sical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls on Arts and Culture; and the National Enous World Tour, begins a tour of its own. als. The Lion King also features some of “flat out hilarious!” And nobody knows dowment for the Arts.

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In life, you often get second chances —and the same is true with investing. To illustrate: You might not have been able to contribute to a Roth IRA during your working years due to your income level, but you may get that opportunity as you near retirement, or even when you are retired — through a Roth conversion.

Why is a Roth IRA desirable for some people? Here are the key benefits: • Tax-free withdrawals — You put in after-tax dollars to a Roth IRA, so you can withdraw your contributions at any time, free of taxes and penalties. And if you’ve had your account for at least five years and you’re at least 59½, you can also withdraw your earnings free of taxes.

• No RMDs — With a traditional IRA, you’ll have to start taking withdrawals — called required minimum distributions, or RMDs — when you turn 73, or 75 if you were born in 1960 or later. But there’s no RMD requirement with a Roth IRA — you can essentially leave the money intact as long as you like.

• Tax-free legacy for your heirs — When your heirs inherit your Roth IRA, they can withdraw the contributions without paying taxes or penalties, and if the account has been open at least five years, they can also withdraw earnings tax free.

But even if you were aware of these advantages, you might not have been able to invest in a Roth IRA for much of your life. For one thing, you might have earned too much money — a Roth IRA, unlike a traditional IRA, has income limits. Also, a Roth IRA has only been around since 1998, so, in the previous years, you were limited to a traditional IRA. As you approach retirement, though, you might start thinking of just how much you’d

like to benefit from a Roth IRA. And you can do so by converting your traditional IRA to a Roth. While this sounds simple, there’s a major caveat: taxes. You’ll be taxed on the amount in pre-tax dollars you contributed to a traditional IRA and then converted to a Roth IRA. (If you have both pre- and after-tax dollars in your traditional IRA, the taxable amount is based on the percentage of pre-tax dollars.)

If you have large amounts in a traditional IRA, the tax bill on conversion can be significant. The key to potentially lowering this tax bill is timing. Generally speaking, the lower your income in a given year, the more favorable it is for you to convert to a Roth IRA. So, for example, if you have already retired, but have not started collecting RMDs, your income may be down.

Timing also comes into play with the financial markets. When the market is going through a decline, and the value of your traditional IRA drops, you could convert the same number of shares of the underlying investments and receive a lower tax bill or convert more shares of these investments for what would have been the same tax bill.

Finally, you could lower your tax bill in any given year by stretching out your Roth IRA conversions over several years, rather than doing it all at once. You’ll want to consult with your tax advisor before embarking on this conversion--but if it’s appropriate for your situation, you could find that owning a Roth IRA can benefit you and your family for years to come.

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

Feb, 2025

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

February 2025

Page 25

LOCAL FAMILY-OWNED LA SEPTIMA ABE BROWN MINISTRIES HELPS BREAK CYCLE OF REINCARCERATION WITH INSPHIRE CAFE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS

By Ashley Abene

La Septima spots, but this Cafe is a famwas all new. … ily-owned and Our son, RJ, operated restauand daughter, rant that has Jennifer, then been in the Bran17 and 24, don area for 30 were hired years. La Sepi m m e d i ate l y tima Cafe was to do whatevopened in 1995 er had to be by owners Rondone. It was nie and Dahlia a family busiFernandez, with La Septima Cafe is a family affair. Pictured are owners, ness, after all. its original locaWe had a minthe multi-generational Fernandez family. tion being on N. imal staff, limParsons Avenue. ited menu and After 16 years at a lot of heart that location, it and ambition. moved to its curOur family rent location in (me, my husLa Viva Plaza, off band, our son of W. Lumsden and daughter) Road. Ronnie and are very much Dahlia’s children, hands-on still, RJ and Jennifer, but our general have been activemanager, Virly involved in the Catering is available at La Septima Cafe. Pictured is ginia Griffin, is restaurant as well our mainstay. baked chicken, black beans, rice and tossed salad. over the years.

She is the cenWhen La Septima opened, the Fer- ter of the operation, and nandezes planned to incorporate Ybor’s we are grateful to her for her hard charm, as their grandparents had origi- work, loyalty and compassion.” nally immigrated to Ybor. La Septima’s Dahlia also stated, “We truly love our decor became that of old Ybor City. It community and their tremendous supstill has that old Ybor City feel 30 years port through thick and thin, and the later, with La Septima’s motto written changes to the way we do business. We on its sign as “a taste of Old Ybor.” strive to keep our prices affordable and Dahlia said of opening La Septima our service excellent.”

Cafe 30 years ago, “On February 9, 1995, La Septima Cafe is open Monday La Septima Cafe was born. What a scary through Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., located day. We were no strangers to the restau- at 702 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. For rant business, having years of experi- more information, call 813-685-0502 or ence with delis, breakfast/lunch/dinner visit https://laseptimacafe.com/.

THE FLORIDA FLORIDA ORCHESTRA ORCHESTRA THE H ough FFamily amily FFoundation oundation M asterrw w orkkss Hough Masterworks Masterw works

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COMPREHENSIVE REENTRY PROGRAM

By Libby Hopkins The mission of Abe wherever their journey Brown Ministries is to leads them.” break cycles of incarcerOne of the greatest ation by helping to renew challenges for those the minds of incarcerated who have experienced and formerly incarcerated incarceration and are citizens, motivating them returning citizens to to change their behaviors the Hillsborough Counand achieve purposeful ty community is finding lives. safe, secure, available “We do this as a comand affordable housing. passionate demonstra“Abe Brown Mintion of the love of Jesus istries partners with Christ,” said Abe Brown Abe Brown Ministries’ inspHire Com- housing providers in the Ministries’ director of fund prehensive Reentry Program serves community to support development, Denise An- Hillsborough, Polk, Pasco and Pinellas the personal growth derson. “We are a premiere organization and professional development process,” that reduces recidivism, replenishes the Anderson said. “The transition living homes workforce, reunifies and rebuilds families as that Abe Brown Ministries partners — two well as reinforces and renews the strength of which are in Brandon, one women’s home of communities.” and one men’s home — provide the comfort Abe Brown Ministries’ inspHire Compre- of being able to return to a comfortable hensive Reentry Program serves Hillsbor- home environment after spending most of ough, Polk, Pasco and Pinellas counties by the day in the learning classroom, on-site at providing wraparound services, including Abe Brown Ministries.” transitional living housing for those who The transitional homes in Brandon are lohave been released from incarceration and cated on the HART bus line for easy access are seeking to become self-sufficient, thriv- and transportation to class, provide safe, ing members of the community. secure, available and affordable living space.

“As part of the wraparound services, the “Abe Brown Ministries invites anyone ininspHire Program reeducates and reskills terested in facilitating the returning citizens’ the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated, transition back into our community either now renewed citizens, in a comprehensive by guiding them to enroll in the Abe Brown learning environment to deliver training for Ministry’s inspHire Comprehensive Reentry personal growth and professional develop- Program or through providing transition livment paths to achieve life objectives,” An- ing housing to those in the program to conderson said. “We provide transitional living tact Abe Brown Ministries,” Anderson said. services for a safe, supportive residence for Visit its website at www.abebrown.org, the inspHire Program participants in which or call 813-247-3285, ext. 200, from Monthey are able to live purposeful and industri- day through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., to speak ous lives as community citizens, at home or with its community resource coordinator.

Page 26

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

DERRICK WILLIAMS, HOST OF THE A KID’S PLACE BUILDS NEW EXTENDED GOSPEL VOICE, CELEBRATES 18 YEARS ON THE CHRISTIAN TELEVISION NETWORK

Derrick Williams, a vocalist, pianist, songwriter and host of The Gospel Voice, will be celebrating his 18th year on the Christian Television Network (CTN) in 2025. Williams is a six-time Best of The Bay winner for Best Vocalist, Singer, Songwriter and Pianist. He currently gigs as a solo act locally as a jazz vocalist and pianist at various restaurants around Tampa Bay. Williams also records gospel music and serves as a praise and worship leader for over 30 years. His upcoming gospel album is expected to be released in 2025 across all music platforms worldwide.

Williams is also well known nationwide for his thrilling stage performances as the originator of the lead role of the ‘Rabbi’ in the musical The Rock & The Rabbi. He joined the cast in 1998, receiving rave reviews while playing to sold-out crowds at prestigious venues throughout the country for 22 years. Touring nationally afforded Williams’ tens of thousands of fans nationwide.

After an impromptu musical guest appearance in 2007 on CTN’s Flagship program The Good Life with CTN’s late president and founder, Bob D’Andrea, Williams was offered to host a gospel music show.

D’Andrea, who appreciated Williams’ musical gifts, coined him as ‘The Music Man,’ believing in his ability to reach souls through music and his passion for the Lord.

“Singing gospel music is not what I do; it’s who I am and what God has gifted me to be.

I am truly blessed and thankful to begin my

STAY HOME FOR TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS AGING OUT OF FOSTER CARE

Staff Report

By Libby Hopkins

18th year on air on the Christian Television Network, sharing the gospel through music and praise and worship. When you are walking with the Lord, you gain wisdom, guidance in your life and knowledge of God’s truths,” said Williams.

The Gospel Voice with Derrick Williams, nominated in 2023 and 2024 as Best of the Bay for Best Morning Show, is an energetic and inspiring music show featuring Williams’ passion for the Lord and his unique songwriting and musical style. He blends an extraordinary mix of traditional, contemporary and original gospel and Christian music fused with jazz, rock, rhythm and blues and soul.

Led by the Holy Spirit, Williams leads praise and worship while ministering through spoken words and music. He serves as the show’s musical and creative director and is joined on stage by the finest musicians and vocalists, who all share a love for the Lord. Williams is also employed as an audio technician at CTN headquarters.

The Gospel Voice currently airs weekly across all CTN Networks on Wednesdays at 9 p.m., Fridays at 8:30 p.m. and Sundays at 12:30 a.m. (locally on WCLF, channel 22).

Check your local network for additional dates and times.

Williams is available for bookings for church events, praise and worship, Sunday’s Soulful Supper shows and corporate or private parties or events.

Visit www.derrickwilliamsvocalist.com or www.thegospelvoicetvshow.com or on socials at @thegospelvoicetvshow.

A Kid’s Place has been so hopeful and clear. helping children who are That’s why A Kid’s in foster care since 2009.

Place is proud to offer The center provides a its unique Extended safe, loving and nurturing Foster Care services. home for foster children.

“We renovated the Its vision is to create, home with the help of implement and sustain a grants from several program which raises the community partners standard of residential that are passionate care for foster children. about helping youth It allows sibling groups to aging out of care,” Melstay together as they belen said. “As of now, gin to heal from the trautwo young men who ma they’ve endured. were residing at A Kid’s This past January, A A Kid’s Place opened the doors of its first Place, they both recentKid’s Place opened the extended stay homes for teens and young ly turned 18 and now doors of its first extend- adults who have aged out of foster care. are living in the home. ed stay homes for teens and young adults We can have up to four young men living in who have aged out of foster care. the home.”

“Our extended foster care home is for Mellen and the team at A Kid’s Place want youth ages 18-22 who have aged out of children who have aged out of foster care to care,” said A Kid’s Place’s development di- know they are there to help them. rector, Samantha Mellen. “We expanded “We want them to know that they are not services in 2020 with a home for young la- alone during this next phase of adulthood dies and this second home will be for young and will have the opportunity to learn the men aging out of foster care. We recently responsibilities that goes with becoming finished our updates; it has been completely an adult in a safe place,” Mellen said. “Each renovated inside with new flooring, paint, young man will realize they can take their kitchen, bathrooms and a new roof.” time exploring the path that is best for The new home will serve young men aging them.” out of foster care from A Kid’s Place or HillsA Kid’s Place’s next project will be to borough, Pinellas, Pasco counties. break ground on a new 12,000-square-foot “We have a dedicated independent lining activity center in March that will provide coordinator that will assist them as they fo- more space, classrooms and opportunities cus on the next phase of their life be it work, to better serve the children in its care. trade, college or military in a safe and stable If you would like to learn more about A environment,” Mellen said.

Kid’s Place or donate to it, you can visit its Once a child turns 18, they are considered website at https://akidsplacetb.org/ or call to be ‘aged out’ of the foster care system. 813-381-3839. A Kid’s Place is located at What happens next for them isn’t always 1715 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon.

Bring your kids to the YMCA on most school holidays* for an exciting, enriching experience while you’re at work or out and about!

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February 2025

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 27

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA PRESENTS THE TAMPA HILLSBOROUGH HOMELESS

THE LEGENDARY YO-YO MA

Staff Report The Florida OrchesMa’s artistry strives tra (TFO) will present to connect people and a one-night-only gala inspire creativity. His benefit concert featurperformance with TFO ing legendary cellist is sure to be a memoYo-Yo Ma, conducted rable highlight in the by music director Miorchestra’s season. chael Francis, on Friday, The benefit concert February 28, at 8 p.m. will be conducted by at Ruth Eckerd Hall maestro Michael Franin Clearwater. The recis, who is celebrating nowned 19-time Gramhis 10th season with my Award-winning artTFO. VIP packages and ist will perform Antonín sponsorship opporDvořák’s stirring Cello tunities are available, Concerto, one of the including premium most beloved works in seating, a preconcert Photo credit: Jason Bell. the cello repertoire.

Legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma will perform reception and a seatTickets for this exclu- for a one-night gala for The Florida Or- ed dinner in the Ruth sive event are on sale Eckerd Hall Great chestra at Ruth Eckerd Hall. with prices ranging from $75-$350. Fees Room. These packages are available on apply. Tickets can be purchased directly a first-come, first-served basis. For more through The Florida Orchestra’s website information about VIP and sponsorship at https://floridaorchestra.org/, by phone opportunities, please contact Susana at 727-892-3337 or in person at the TFO Weymouth, TFO chief development offiTicket Center, located at 244 2nd Ave. N. cer, at 727-362-5430 or sweymouth@ in St. Petersburg. floridaorchestra.org.

The concert will also feature a perforGenerously presented by The Cassaly mance of Richard Strauss’ famous Don Foundation, the concert is a key fundraisJuan, adding to the evening’s dramatic ing event for The Florida Orchestra, which and vibrant program. This special event continues to inspire, educate and unite will support The Florida Orchestra’s com- the Tampa Bay community through the mitment to artistic excellence and its transformative power of music. wide-reaching education and commuThe Florida Orchestra’s 2024-25 seanity programs, which serve more than son features over 100 performances 155,000 people across the Tampa Bay across Tampa Bay, offering a wide range area each year. of classical, popular and family-friendly A world-renowned musician, Ma has programs. built a career based on his belief in the Ruth Eckerd Hall is located at 1111 power of culture to foster understanding McMullen Booth Rd. in Clearwater. For and unity. Whether performing timeless more details or to purchase tickets, visit classics or exploring new musical forms, https://floridaorchestra.org/.

INITIATIVE LOOKS TO THE COMMUNITY TO HELP WITH ITS 2025 PIT COUNT

By Libby Hopkins The purpose lot of effort into of the Tampa making sure this Hillsborough event is a sucHomeless Initiacess.” tive (THHI) is to The commulead the Tampa/ nity can get inHillsborough volved by signing County Continuup to a survey at um of Care (CoC) www.thhi.org/ in collaboration The Tampa Hillsborough Homeless Initiative (THHI) is pitsignup and with agencies conducting its 2025 Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. THHI needs participating in to develop and more than 500 volunteers, who will be asked to interview this great event. provide innova- people experiencing unsheltered homelessness and collect “The PIT data about them and their experiences. tive solutions to Count is more make homelessness rare, brief than just a requirement; it’s an and nonrecurring in Hillsboropportunity for our community ough County. to come together, see the realThis collaboration, with a ity of homelessness firsthand wide range of partners, engages and take action,” said Antoinette and mobilizes systems of care on Hayes-Triplett, CEO at THHI. “Eva local, regional and national level to develop ery volunteer plays a crucial role in ensuring effective prevention and intervention ser- that no one is invisible and that we have the vices for people who are homeless or at risk data needed to drive real solutions. I encourof becoming homeless. age everyone to step forward, join us and The U.S. Department of Housing and be part of the effort to make homelessness Urban Development (HUD) requires CoC rare, brief and nonrecurring in Hillsborough to conduct a Point-in-Time (PIT) Count of County.” persons experiencing homelessness at least THHI needs more than 500 volunteers, every two years. The Tampa/Hillsborough who will be asked to interview people expeCounty CoC conducts a homeless count an- riencing unsheltered homelessness and colnually. According to HUD, each community lect data about them and their experiences. shall make every effort to count all homeless “The PIT Count allows us all to come toindividuals living outdoors, in shelters and in gether and help make homelessness rare, transitional housing. brief and nonrecurring,” Santiago said. “We “The Point-in-Time Count is our annual hope to rally the community to unite and event, during which we survey our neighbors have a great count.” who are experiencing homelessness,” said THHI’s PIT Count will be held on TuesTHHI Director of Data Systems Sergio San- day, February 27. If you would like to learn tiago. “The data this event gathers is used by more about THHI or want to volunteer to the federal and state governments to make help with the 2025 PIT Count, you can visit all sorts of important decisions, so we put a THHI’s website at www.thhi.org.

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

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Page 28

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

SELAH FREEDOM SAFE HOUSE: A CRITICAL FIRST STEP IN HUMAN TRAFFICKING RECOVERY

By Marie Gilmore The Abrahams are no strangers to volunteer work, having also contributed time to A Kid’s Place and Forgotten Angels in the area. As part of their Selah Freedom operates a safe house for human trafficking survivors in involvement with Sethe Southeast Hillsborough County area. lah Freedom, they are In the heart of Southeast Hillsborough exploring ideas for enriching classes for County, the Selah Freedom safe house residents, including cooking, art, music stands as a beacon of hope for survivors therapy and even yoga. They also noted of human trafficking, providing a crucial the ongoing need for donations of perfirst step toward healing. Serving as the sonal toiletries and other necessities, in first point of recovery for victims across addition to fundraising for expanded proa six-county radius, the safe house has grams. even welcomed individuals from other Founded in 2010, Selah Freedom offers states, thanks to collaborative efforts five core programs: awareness, prevenand outreach. tion, outreach, residential and consulting.

“Our survivors often arrive here direct- The organization provides vital educaly from the courts, the FBI or even the tion and support services to individuals Department of Homeland Security,” said affected by human and sex trafficking.

Angela Valenti, assessment coordinator In addition to its residential campus and for Selah Freedom. “Our goal is to of- assessment home, Selah Freedom offers fer them a place to heal for six to eight free education and outreach to schools, weeks before they transition into our 12 law enforcement agencies and partner to 18-month residential program, with organizations across Hillsborough, Pinelthe ultimate aim of graduation.” las, Sarasota, Manatee, Polk and Pasco Valenti, who is herself a survivor, grad- counties. uate and now an employee at Selah FreeSince its inception, Selah Freedom has dom, brings a personal understanding to supported 6,853 survivors and educated her work, speaking directly to the survi- over 72,000 children and adults on trafvors with compassion and empathy. ficking awareness and prevention. The During a recent visit to the safe house, name ‘Selah’ is derived from Hebrew, Thomas and Mary Abraham toured the meaning to pause, rest, and reflect — a facility on behalf of their church, St. fitting representation of the organizaMark’s Mar Thoma Church in Tampa. tion’s mission to give survivors a space to “We’ve always been passionate about heal and rebuild their lives. community service,” said Thomas. “Our For more information or to find out church members are eager to get in- how to get involved, visit https://selahvolved with a neighborhood mission.” freedom.com/.

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Brandon/Winthrop Edition

February 2025

ROTARY SPOTLIGHT: ACTIVITIES, MEETINGS & MORE

Page 29

DANCING FOR HEROES GALA TO BENEFIT PEDIATRIC CANCER PATIENTS

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Staff Report

With the motto of has provided ‘Service Above Self,’ gate volunteers local Rotary clubs for the Hillsmake an impact by borough Counsupporting local and ty Fair, a hot global organizations, dog lunch for with proceeds from Backpack Hefundraising events roes Day and and by contributing 100-plus teddy to the eradication of bears for chilPolio and funding of global grants through dren through the Tampa Rough Riders. For Rotary Foundation in seven areas of focus. more information, text Debbie Meegan at 813-601-2315.

During the 2024 calendar year…

FishHawk-Riverview Rotary, with funds Brandon ’86 Rotary participated in from its annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade campus beautification at schools, Christ- and annual Crawfish Festival, supported mas and Easter events for foster children students with college scholarships, student at Everyday Blessings, quarterly roadside delegates to Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leadcleanups with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful ers (S4TL) and awards in the annual high and hurricane recovery efforts both locally school Speech Contest. Yearly, a volunteer and across the Bay Area. For more infor- team travels to La Paz, Honduras, to work mation, contact Chad Norgard at chad@ with Honduras Compassion Partners on norgardinsgrp.com. building projects. Local projects included USF Rotaract exceeded their fall semes- lunch for Backpack Heroes Day and hurriter goals by painting pinkies on campus to cane cleanups. For more information, conraise awareness of polio, collecting 1,300- tact Betty Huth at betty@hbphoto.com. plus lbs. of debris, organizing 14 hurricane The E-Club of Tampa South meets on relief events, sorting 1,000-plus articles of Zoom to enable those with tight schedules, clothing for Oasis Opportunities, crochet- especially military and first responders, to ing 50-plus plushies for the children at engage in service through Rotary. A new Joshua House and collecting food for the but thriving club, it provided veterans with Feed-A-Bull pantry on campus. For more breakfast at Fishhawk Bagels on Veteran’s information, visit USF Rotaract Club on Day this past November, sent a student to Instagram.

S4TL, supported Honduras For more inforBrandon Rotary, with proceeds from its mation, contact Duane Williams at dsigannual golf tournament and annual Wild ma79@aol.com or 813-541-6202.

Game Dinner, awarded college scholarYou’re invited to visit local Rotary clubs, ships to students and supported charities, follow the clubs on social media and join including the High 5 TRIDENT program; them for these fundraisers in early 2025: ECHO; the Angel Foundation FL; Hope for • FishHawk-Riverview Rotary’s annual Her; Rotary’s Camp Florida; the Greater Crawfish Festival, on Saturday, April 26, Tampa Bay Area Council, Boy Scouts of at Winthrop Town Centre, located at 6108 America; and the Guatemala Aid Fund. It Winthrop Town Centre Ave. in Riverview.

The Small But “Witnessing the Mighty Heroes orgaimpact of dance nization is gearing up on grieving parfor its second annuents was transforal gala, Dancing for mative; it allowed Heroes, taking place them to process on Friday, March their loss and heal 21, from 7-10 p.m. together,” said at The Regent. This Downing. “This inenchanting evening spired us to include will feature dancers dancing as part of performing superheour bereavement ro-themed routines program, offering to raise funds for chilfamilies a powerdren battling pediatful way to grieve, ric cancer. connect and find The event, themed Small But Mighty Heroes is a 501(3)(c) orga- strength through ‘Fantasy and Fairy- nization that’s dedicated to providing services movement.” tales Night,’ aims to to pediatric cancer patients and their families.

This special combring magic to life as It is hosting a community fundraiser at The munity event celeRegent on Friday, March 21, at 7 p.m. dancers honor true brates the lives of heroes — children fighting cancer. Attend- the children battling cancer and to raise ees can expect a night filled with wonder, critical funds for Small But Mighty Heroes joy and heartfelt moments as each step programs benefiting the families served and spin on the dance floor becomes a through this nonprofit organization. Many tribute to courage, hope and resilience. local community members are dancing in Tina Downing is the founder of Small this event, including local authors, busiBut Mighty Heroes and the visionary for ness owners, realtors and more. this ballroom dancing fundraiser.

General admission tickets are priced “Dancing For Heroes was born out of my at $75, offering half-hour early entrance, personal journey with Latin and ballroom general seating, passed hors d’oeuvres and dancing, which began in 2021 after I trag- desserts, along with one drink ticket. VIP ically lost my twin sister,” said Downing. tickets are available for $125, providing “At that time, I turned to dance as a way one-hour early entrance, reserved seating to grieve and cope. It gave me an outlet in a premium location, VIP ‘red-carpet’ to express emotions that words couldn’t, treatment, additional hors d’oeuvres and a serving as a form of therapy and healing.” meet and greet with professional dancers Over time, dancing became not only and contestants.

Downing’s personal refuge but also a For more information and to purchase way to honor the children she support- tickets, visit https://smallbutmightyheed through her nonprofit organization, roes.org/ or call 813-772-4584. The ReSmall But Mighty Heroes, especially those gent is located at 6437 Watson Rd. in whose lives were cut short.

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Page 30

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Volume 20, Issue 2

Life Reflected Beautifully.

I NTROD UCING TH E ULT I MAT E WAT ERF RO NT H O M E E X P E R I E N C E

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February 2025

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

2025 BAY AREA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL BRINGS JOUSTING, MERRIMENT AND MEDIEVAL ADVENTURE TO TAMPA BAY

Staff Report

The 2025 Bay A d d i t i o n a l l y, Area Renaisdaily events sance Festival include the Rois set to kick off mance Package mid-February, with front row promising an seats at the unforgettable joust, Brunch There will be fun for the whole family at the 2025 Bay journey back Area Renaissance Festival, located in Dade City from now at the Joust into the 16th cluding a gourthrough Sunday, March 30. century for visitors of all met lunch, mead tastings, ages. During weekends a daily pub crawl, Cocktail from now through Sunday, Crawl, Queen’s Tea, Fairy March 30, rain or shine, Tale Tea Party, Marriage the festival will transform Renewal En Masse and the lush grounds of the Vow Renewal En Masse.

Red Fest grounds in Dade Festivalgoers can also City into a vibrant, medieexpect a sprawling marval village, complete with ketplace, where artisans knights, jousts and artisan will display handcrafted markets. jewelry, clothing, pottery This year’s events promand other treasures, many ise to be some of the most of which are inspired by exciting yet, with a fresh the Renaissance period. lineup of performers, attractions, and With live music, delicious food and the themed weekends to engage guests in a timeless fun of watching actors and pervariety of immersive experiences. Festi- formers immerse themselves in the lore valgoers will be able to wander through of the era, the Bay Area Renaissance the artisan marketplace, encountering Festival offers a one-of-a-kind expericostumed characters from all walks of ence in Tampa Bay. life, from royal courtiers to rogue pirates Tickets for the 2025 festival are on and wandering minstrels. This year, the sale now, with special discounts for festival will feature an expanded enter- families, groups and early purchasers. tainment roster.

For more information on the full schedHighlighting the action-packed sched- ule and ticket options, visit https://baule are the thrilling jousting tourna- yarearenfest.com/. ments, where armored knights will comThe Renaissance Festival grounds are pete in full battle regalia for glory and located at 12838 Auton Rd. in Dade City, honor. The competitions, set against the and the festival is open from 10 a.m.backdrop of cheering crowds, will take 6 p.m. Parking is free. Discount tickets place throughout the weekends, provid- start at $17.59 and event tickets range ing excitement for spectators of all ages. from $30-$67 per person.

Page 31

STRAWBERRY SQUARE DANCING OFFERS LESSONS AND DANCES FOR ALL AGES

By Lily Belcher

lessons and round dance lessons and dances for each style.

Classes for all skill levels start in January each year. It’s not a competition, Sorrells said, just lots of fun.

Sorrells said Strawberry Square Dancing hosts lessons and dances for all ages and skill levels. the reason she volBeginners and advanced square dancunteers her time to the company is beers can find their next dance floor at cause she loves it.

Strawberry Square Dancing.

“I love what I’m doing, I love the peoOpen throughout the week, the compaple, I love the dancing and it’s so good for ny hosts lessons and dances for all ages, your health and it’s fun,” she said. or at least those who know their lefts Sorrells is a snowbird from Georgia. from their rights.

She said she started dancing when her Cherylene Sorrells, dance committee kids graduated high school and she bechairperson, said that once you know came an empty nester.

One of her friends which direction you’re going, the sectried a square dancing lesson and encourond-hardest part is simply listening to aged her to join. directions.

“We thought, ‘That looks like fun,’” she “Everybody will say, ‘Well, I got two said.

“So, we went and tried it, and we left feet,’” Sorrells said. “And we said, loved it.”

‘Well, we can fix that because it’s very She said it’s an inexpensive way to get easy.’” some activity in and sharpen your brain.

Strawberry Square Dancing opened Lessons are $7 and the season runs decades ago. It’s mostly seniors dancing from November through April, but Strawon the floating hardwood floor in Plant berry Square Dancing does offer some City, but Strawberry Square Dancing is dances over the summer. open to anyone who wants to join.

Strawberry Square Dancing is located In addition to learning fun dances, at 4401 Promenade Blvd. in Plant City, Strawberry Square Dancing is a way to off Boot Bay and Beauchamp roads. make friends, most of whom are from the For more information or to check the same mobile home park. Groups of danccalendar for the most up to date inforers have also traveled to different state mation, visit www.strawberrysquareconventions to showcase their routines. dancing.com or call the office at 813The company hosts both square dance 752-0491.

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Page 32

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR LIFE: CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION AT HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Superintendent Van Ayres At Hillsborough County lenging and include academPublic Schools (HCPS), we’re ic, technical education and all about preparing students career training. Whether for life, no matter what path students are learning how they choose after graduato repair cars, build homes, tion. That’s where our cadesign software or manage reer and technical education finances, CTE programs give (CTE) programs come in — them the skills and confithey’re truly a game changer. dence to step into their fuWhat used to be called tures. vocational education has And it’s not just students evolved into modern CTE who benefit. We work A Letter From The programs, designed to set closely with local businessSUPERINTENDENT of Hillsborough County Public Schools students up for well-paying es to ensure our programs Van Ayres jobs right after high school. match the needs of the job Here in Hillsmarket. These partborough County, nerships lead to we offer over 400 internships, apprenunique middle and ticeships and menhigh school courses torships, offering across a wide range students real-world of fields — from experience and conagriculture to culinections to potential nary arts, computemployers.

Many er programming to graduates transition health sciences. CTE straight from CTE programs are taught into rewarding cathroughout our 28 reers, helping to fill high schools, four critical workforce career centers and gaps in industries include 47 middle like health care and school programs. skilled trades.

Starting as early as Finally, CTE programs middle school, students also play a big role in can explore their inhelping students graduterests while earning ate. By offering handsindustry-recognized on learning and pathcertifications, such as ways tailored to their EKG technician, nursing interests, students stay assistant, agricultural engaged and motivated technician, veterinary asto succeed. sistant, welder and more.

To learn more about our CTE programs, CTE courses are designed to be chal- visit www.hillsboroughschools.org.

Volume 20, Issue 2

FUELFEST BRINGS 800 CARS TO TAMPA SHOW SATURDAY, MARCH 1 Staff Report Following record-setting tures the all new popular shows in South Florida showcase area: Taste of since 2022, FuelFest is set Tokyo, giving fans a Japto open gates for their 1st anese underground car annual show at the Florida meet vibe with a variety State Fairgrounds located of cars you’re likely to see at 4800 US Highway 301 lurking in the streets of North on Saturday, March Tokyo.

1 . Gates for the event open For those looking to to the public from 1-8pm. elevate the thrilling exAdmission tickets start at perience, FuelFest offers $35 per person and kids 12 VIP access with premium and under are FREE. Visbenefits, early admission it www.FuelFest.com for access for FuelClub memticket information. All new bers, limited edition merTyrese Gibson and Cody Walker for 2025 – judged car show will bring FuelFest to Tampa on chandise, free swag, aucSaturday, March 1. sections and best of show tions, and more. awards and trophies.

A portion of the event’s Now in its seventh year proceeds benefit Reach of hosting events globally Out WorldWide (ROWW), from Los Angeles, Dallas, the non-profit charity West Palm Beach, New founded by Paul Walker Jersey, Atlanta, Arizona, and continued by his brothTokyo, London and Abu er, Cody Walker. Founded Dhabi. FuelFest blends in 2010, the organization the enthusiast’s passion was created by the late for the automotive world actor and producer afwith appearances by Fast ter a massive earthquake & Furious franchise stars, Tyrese Gibson, devastated Haiti with the inspiration to orCody Walker and live action drifting, live ganize a relief team that responded to the music with multiple artists on the festival disaster. ROWW’s mission is to fill the gap stage, a huge car show, automotive culture, between the availability of skilled resourcdozens of custom exhibits and more. es in post-disaster situations. As of 2024, This year, the show will feature more than ROWW has raised over $580,000 through 800 top custom, exotic, rare and exclusive the partnership with FuelFest to benefit cars and trucks, plus drift ride alongs and those in need and has deployed resources Fast and Furious screen used movie cars, to several disaster areas including recently various interactive fan racing activities and Asheville, NC & Englewood, FL following attractions. The FuelFest drift pits are open hurricanes Helene and MIlton, Lahaina, Haaccess, allowing fans to get up close to their waii, Türkiye, and more. favorite race cars and see what these amazFor information and tickets to the event, ing machines are all about. FuelFest also fea- visit https://fuelfest.com/.

February 2025

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

SUZY LOPEZ SWORN IN AS FIRST DULY ELECTED FEMALE STATE ATTORNEY IN COUNTY HISTORY

Staff Report

State Attorney Suzy Lopez was officially sworn in for her first full term in office in front of a room of state and local leaders, supporters, attorneys and staff. Gov. Ron DeSantis was the keynote speaker for this historic occasion as Lopez officially became the first woman ever elected to serve as State Attorney in Hillsborough County. Former Florida Attorney General and current nominee for U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi swore in Lopez, while current Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody held the Bible for the ceremony.

Lopez told the crowd of state and local leaders and supporters that she will continue to enforce and follow the law to make our community a safer place. She thanked her colleagues, supporters, law enforcement officers and local leaders for their commitment to ensuring that Hillsborough County remains safe under her watch.

Since she arrived to lead this agency in August 2022, Lopez has successfully put the concerns of crime victims ahead of criminals while partnering with law enforcement to see a record reduction in crime. She has personally mourned with families who have lost loved ones to criminal violence and does so with compassion and care.

“I promise to proudly serve my hometown as we pursue public safety together.

Working for victims and their families is why we get up every day. We all want to

live in a safe community, and we as prosecutors will enforce and follow the law with the help of our law enforcement partners. I thank my dedicated team of attorneys and support staff who value this community as much as I do and are committed to keeping our families safe,” said Lopez.

“Florida is a lawand-order state.

That means our state attorneys uphold our laws, prosecute crimes and seek justice for victims. But too many prosecutors around the country put their ideological agenda over upholding their oath of office. Three years ago, Hillsborough County had such a state attorney. I removed him from office and replaced him with Suzy Lopez. Suzy has earned the trust of her community by restoring the rule of law and keeping Hillsborough County safe. That’s why she defeated the Soros-aligned candidate in November’s election, and she will continue to set an example for other state attorneys to follow,” said DeSantis.

The state attorney’s office is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. The office believes it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, follow it on Twitter @HillsboroughSAO and @SuzyLopezSA, Instagram @HillsboroughStateAttorney and Facebook @HillsboroughSAO.

Page 33

JEEP RUN TO BENEFIT MARY & MARTHA HOUSE ENDS AT THE MOTOR ENCLAVE

Staff Report

Jeep enthuJeep.

Sponsiasts will hit sorship opporthe road for a tunities are good cause at available as the inaugural well, starting at Duck Domestic $250.

Violence Jeep “This event Run, supporting is incredibly Mary & Martha important to House Inc. The us,” said Bill event will take Chini, execuparticipants on tive director of a scenic drive Mary & Marthrough Tampa tha House. “Not Bay, culminatonly will it raise ing at The Motor much-needed Enclave on Satfunds to supurday, March 15. port victims of The run will domestic viokick off at 10 lence and homea.m. from varlessness, but ious locations it also offers a around Tampa Jeeps are wanted for the first-ever Duck Domestic Vio- chance to raise lence Jeep Run to support Mary & Martha House.

Bay, with the fiawareness about nal destination being at The Motor En- our mission in a fun and engaging way. clave by 2 p.m. At the event’s conclusion, By driving through Tampa Bay with prizes will be awarded based on the col- Mary & Martha House flags on our vehior and number of custom ‘ducks’ collect- cles, we can reach new communities and ed along the route. expand the conversation about domestic Each registered participant will re- violence.” ceive a custom tote bag and a Duck DoMary & Martha House, which has been mestic Violence vehicle window flag to a lifeline for women and families for over display during the run. Along the way, 40 years, offers emergency and transithey will stop at various checkpoints tional housing and critical support seraround Tampa Bay to pick up specially vices to help homeless women and dodesigned ducks, which will play a role mestic violence survivors secure stable in the prize giveaway at The Motor En- housing and employment. The organizaclave. tion is based in Ruskin, with a retail store Space for the event is limited to 100 at 312 S. U.S. 41. For more information, Jeeps, and registration costs $75 per visit https://marymarthahouse.org/.

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February 2025, Vol. 20, Iss. 2 Brandon/Winthrop Brandon/Winthrop Edition

Page 34

Volume 20, Issue 2

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Papaya Primary Care, located at 3113 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, recently held a Cypress Creek Asribbon-cutting ceremony with the Valrico/Fishhawk sisted Living And Chamber of Commerce.

Memory Care ResPapaya Primary Care idence does things differentCypress Creek Assistly so that its patients The Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opened Living and Memory have quick access to quality ing of Papaya Primary Care with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

AM Designs & Services celebrated its 10-year anniversary with a Care Residence, privatecare and less stress about cost. ribbon-cutting ceremony from the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber ness on March 1st. Interested students ly owned and family Instead of insurance billing, it operates us- should complete the appropriate applicasale and execution. For more information, operated, was founded ing an affordable monthly membership in tion at one of the links below and submit it visit its website at https://gentletouchesta- upon enhancing the quality of life through exchange for health care. Members have along with the required uploads. Eligibility, tesales.com/ or call 813-812-0780. a family-focused model and personalized unlimited access to their provider without criteria, and additional information may be co-pays or after-visit fees. Free generic found on the applications.

AM Design & Services prescriptions are offered through its pharCollege/University> https://business.valAM Design & Services, owned by Abi macy partnership and a panel of screening ricofishhawk.org/form/view/35550 Merkle, is a creative studio that designs labs are free to members every year. Learn Trade or Vocational School> https:// business success through graphic design, more at www.papayaprimarycare.com business.valricofishhawk.org/form/ social media and branding. It helps busior by calling 813-669-0511. You can also view/35549 nesses across the country launch and reschedule a no-obligation, 10-minute inquiry organize their advertising and marketing call to see if the clinic is right for you.

Gentle Touch Estate Sales efforts to elevate their business to the Based in Apollo Beach, next level. With over Valrico/FishHawk Chamber Gentle Touch Estate Gentle Touch 20 years in corporate care. The communities at Cypress Creek Scholarship Opportunities Sales specializes in pro- Estate Sales LL retail advertising, AM Assisted Living are divided into personalThe Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Com- viding comprehensive Designs & Services un- ized neighborhoods with high staff-to-resmerce is pleased to announce scholarship estate liquidation. When Debbie Berg derstands more than ident ratios, and the living spaces provide 813-812-0780 opportunities for graduating high school someone passes away, just advertising and a sense of community in an environment seniors in our community. We are offer- moves or downsizes, it debbie@gentletouchestatesales.com marketing; it under- that does not overwhelm and has been www.gentletouchestatesales.com ing four scholarships: comes in to organize and stands how businesses purposed to accommodate individualized Two for students attending a 2-year or price the entire contents of the household can work, and it strives to bring out-of- needs. Cypress Creek Assisted Living and 4-year college/university and ensure a large, organized sale of their the-box ideas to the table. AM Designs & Memory Care Residence is located at 970 Two for students attending a trade or possessions. Its team of experts handles ev- Services celebrated its 10-year anniversa- Cypress Village Blvd. in Sun City Center. vocational school ery aspect of the estate sale process, includ- ry with a ribbon-cutting from the Valrico/ Visit its website at www.cypresscreekalf.

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February 2025

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

EYE ON BUSINESS...CONTINUED Compiled By Jenny Bennett

Align Right Realty

Align Right Realty is excited to share that its longtime preferred mortgage lender, Michael Longman, has joined AnnieMac Home Mortgage.

Longman has been a vital part of its brokerage, consistently providing top-tier mortgage support and forging a strong partnership with the team. His transition to AnnieMac brings even greater opportunities for collaboration with Align Right’s agents, enhancing their knowledge and involvement in the home buying and selling process. Align Right Realty is located at 11962 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview. Visit its website at https:// alignrightriverview.com/ for more information.

Commerce. With the combined knowledge, expertise and global strength of recruits and its sister brands, Advantage Technical, Hunter Hamilton and Digital People, you can rest easy knowing you have a partner with 55-plus years of staffing expertise. Staffmark is located at 2422 James L. Redman Parkway in Plant City. For more information, visit its website at https://staffmarkgroup. com or call 813-703-1910.

Tampa Electric Granted National Award

Tampa Electric has won the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) Emergency Response Award for 2024, in recognition for the company’s Z Beauty Academy & outstanding work to quickly restore Spa Offers Training, power after HurEducation & More ricane Milton.

Z Beauty Academy & EEI’s EmergenSpa is owned by Liyakhat cy Response Khan and Cory Mohammed.

Awards recogAlong with services such nize recovery as microblading, ombre, and assistance eyelash extensions, facials, eff orts of electric waxing, microdermabracompanies after sion and more, it also offers extreme weather advanced training in these or other natural procedures and incorpoevents. The winrates techniques from othners were choer countries. Students are sen by a panel of also taught how to open a judges following business and market theman international selves. Z Beauty Academy nomination pro& Spa is located at 1534 cess. Florida’s W. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 1, in 2024 hurricane Brandon. Visit its website season was the at www.zbeautyspa.com deadliest and or call 724-923-2889 to most destructive in more than a century. find out more or make an appointment.

Hurricane Milton caused widespread outStaffmark Opens New Office In ages and significant devastation from fierce winds, windblown debris, flooding and Plant City heavy rain. Tampa Electric brought 6,000 Staffmark, a member of RGF Staffing and line workers from as far away as Texas, Recruit Group, a global HR titan, Minnesota and Canajust celebrated opening offices in da. Electricity was rePlant City with a ribbon-cutting stored in a week. from the Plant City Chamber of

Page 35

GREATER BRANDON MEALS ON WHEELS:

SERVING THE COMMUNITY’S MOST VULNERABLE RESIDENTS

By Marie Gilmore Every weekday, course, starch, vegfrom Monday to etable, salad, bread Friday, 200 resiand dessert. Every dents in the Branday, a specific endon area eagerly tree — rotating await a visit from a between chicken, familiar face — the pork, beef and fish volunteer delivery — ensures that drivers of Greater clients enjoy variBrandon Meals on ety throughout the Wheels. For many, Volunteers at Presbyteweek. this brief encounter rian Church of Seffner G re a t e r might be their only prep meals as part of the Brandon Meals social interaction Greater Brandon Meals on on Wheels is Wheels program. of the day. These funded entirely volunteers don’t just deliver a hot meal; they through private also offer a moment of companionship bedonations and fore heading out to their next stop. contributions The program primarily serves elderly, from program homebound individuals who are unable to recipients. No shop, prepare or cook for themselves. Volgovernment unteers ensure that these residents not only funding is inreceive a nutritious, hot meal each day but volved. Clients also a little bit of human connection. pay a small fee Operating since 1976, Greater Brandon for their meals, Meals on Wheels is one of the area’s lon- and the remaining costs are covered by gengest-standing charitable programs, with erous individuals and businesses who recogover 17 local churches banding together to nize the program’s value in the community. make sure the service runs smoothly. VolunBefore receiving services, clients undergo teers, drivers, cooks and prep teams all pitch a screening process to confirm their need. in to make each delivery a success.

The program follows strict guidelines to enDave ‘Mac’ MacEwen, president of the sure that only those who truly require assisorganization, has been a dedicated volun- tance are served. teer for the past eight years. After retiring For more information or to refer someone from the Army, he decided to settle in the in need, contact general coordinator Carol area and follow his passion for cooking by Shick at 813-404-1973. Those interested attending culinary school. He started to pre- in volunteering or participating at a church pare gourmet meals for his family, and now can reach out to MacEwen at davidkmaceprepares meals for his community too. wen@gmail.com. Visit www.brandonmeal“There’s a lot of satisfaction in knowing sonwheels.com. that you’re helping the most vulnerable Participating member churches include: people in our community get a good meal,” First United Methodist Church of Seffner, MacEwen shared while prepping a meal at Kings Avenue Baptist Church, Westminster his home church, Presbyterian Church of Presbyterian Church, St. Andrews UnitSeffner. “We start cooking at 8:30 a.m., and ed Methodist Church, Apostles Lutheran by 11 a.m. the drivers are on the road deliv- Church, Presbyterian Church of Bloomingering the meals.” dale, HighPoint Church of Brandon, Nativity Each church involved in the program com- Catholic Church, First Presbyterian Church mits to cooking and delivering meals one day of Brandon, Holy Innocents’ Episcopal a week. A typical day sees up to 50 or more Church, Seffner Presbyterian Church, meals delivered, with about four churches First Baptist Church of Brandon, St. Stephen participating in the program daily.

Catholic Church, Brandon Christian Church, The meals are designed to be hearty and Rich Valley Church, New Hope Methodist well-balanced. Each lunch includes a main Church and First Baptist Church of Dover.

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Page 36

Brandon/Winthrop Edition

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