MOTORING TAMPA BAY

HOW TO STAY CONNECTED DURING WEATHER-RELATED DISASTERS

By StatePoint Media

While the summer season often signifies the start of hurricane season and wildfires, the rise in natural disasters has made preparedness a yearlong process. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 2021 was the third-most active hurricane season on record with 21 named storms. According to CoreLogic, about one in every 10 homes in the United States was impacted to some degree by natural disasters in 2021.

Companies like T-Mobile have emergency response teams working tirelessly to ensure they are ready to keep communities, first responders and customers connected when they’re needed most.

T-Mobile works with weather forecasters, including StormGeo, to accurately track weather events and potential severity. T-Mobile’s network switches, data centers, points of presence and other critical sites are equipped with thousands of new backup generators, thanks to a multiyear network hardening investment that also added advanced relief and recovery tools in hurricane-prone areas. And its Network Operations Centers provide 24/7 monitoring so technicians and engineers can watch

network trafc demands and weather impacts. When it comes to weather-related disasters, even with all T-Mobile’s preparations and the network’s increased capacity, power outages and other service interruptions can still occur. The good news is that you can also take steps T-Mobile on-site to help with hurricane recovery. to ensure you stay connected during weather events: • If you have a network connection, keep calls to a minimum and as short as possible. • Send a text instead of making a call. Text messages get through more easily during times of congestion. • If you have home broadband and power but no mobile service, turn on Wi-Fi calling, which allows T-Mobile, Sprint and Metro by T-Mobile customers with capable devices to text and make and receive voice calls via any capable Wi-Fi connection. If you need to call 911 using Wi-Fi, be sure to give your address to the operator. There are additional weather monitoring resources available to alert you of upcoming severe weather. You can receive the latest storm forecasts from NOAA’s National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center. You can also download The Weather Channel TV app on your smart TV or streaming device. To learn more about how T-Mobile prepares for and responds to disaster events, visit T-Mobile’s disaster relief website at www.t-mobile.com. Taking a few minutes to brush up on best practices during inclement weather will help keep you connected, come what may.

NEXT LEVEL CHURCH PARTNERS WITH GIBSONTON ELEMENTARY FOR BACKPACK DRIVE

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Every year, Next Level Church in Riverview gives back to local schools and teachers through various initiatives. This year, the church partnered with Gibsonton Elementary School to gather much-needed school supplies and backpacks for students.

Walter Robbins, executive assistant at Next Level Church, explained that the church became aware of this huge need in the community and immediately got to work to meet those needs. The church set a goal to donate 120 backpacks full of supplies, such as binders, crayons, notebooks and more.

“Every year, we partner with a local school to help serve them however we can,” said Robbins. “This year, we came across a post online from Gibsonton Elementary School letting the community know of their need for school supplies. We quickly organized our church to do something about it, and backpacks with school supplies started coming in each week for this initiative.”

The church collected the supplies for four weeks before delivering them at the beginning of the school year to Gibsonton Elementary. As the costs of goods continue to climb, the extra help for families that

may be struggling was a blessing to the staf, students and families. “We want to be a church that is known in our community for being loving, relevant and life-giving,” said Robbins. “Meeting local needs such as high demand for school supplies is just one way we can show the community our love for them.” T h e church’s Next Level Church in Riverview part- next goal nered with Gibsonton Elementary is to raise School to help provide students with nonperishbackpacks and school supplies. able food items for the ECHO organization at its annual Stuf-A-Truck event this Thanksgiving season. ECHO was founded in 1987 and its mission is to assist the residents of Hillsborough County in crisis with food, clothing, programs and resources. Next Level Church was founded in 2008 in Dover, New Hampshire and has several campuses, including the Riverview location, and serves the local community and surrounding areas of Hillsborough County. It was named among the fastest-growing churches in America by Outreach magazine. The congregation meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. at 10650 County Rd. 672 in Riverview. For more information, please visit www.nextlevel.church.

9/30/2022

9/30/2022

SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR BY FACTE

Staf Report

The Florida Association for Career and Technical Education (FACTE) has named Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) Superintendent Addison Davis the CTE Superintendent of the Year. The awards committee bestowed the honor for the superintendent’s dedication to workforce development to prepare students for high-paying careers in demand in our community.

Superintendent Davis was presented the award at the school board meeting on July 26 to honor his expansion of CTE programs throughout the district. One of the central focuses of his tenure has been to help fill critical labor gaps in our community by preparing students for in-demand jobs upon graduation.

“FACTE would like to recognize Superintendent Davis’ positive impact on Career and Technical Education within Hillsborough County Public Schools. The success of the Future Career Academy is one of many incredible initiatives we believe makes a tremendous diference in student success. It is clear that Superintendent Davis recognizes the importance of career pathways which allow students to earn multiple industry certifications preparing them for career advancement,” said Marsan Carr, executive director of FACTE.

“Superintendent Davis has empowered his leadership and staf to ensure new and innovative programs are created for our students in the area of workforce development. Mr. Davis has been instrumental in creating

Te Florida Association for Career and Technical three new high Education (FACTE) has named Hillsborough County schools with a Public Schools (HCPS) Superintendent Addison Davis the CTE Superintendent of the Year. focus on med ical, construc tion and logistics, and it is exciting to see this work honored by an esteemed organization like FACTE,” said Scott Brooks, executive director of CTE. “I am truly honored to be the CTE Superintendent of the Year and deeply appreciate FACTE for taking notice of the important work we have just begun here in Hillsborough County Public Schools. Strengthening our career and technical education oferings will have impacts not only on our students but also on our community as we work collectively to fill a critical labor shortage in key areas in our community,” said Davis. Davis began his tenure as superintendent for HCPS, the nation’s seventh largest school system, in March 2020. He is a member of the Children’s Board, American Heart Association Board, Junior Achievement Board, Starting Right Now Board, Tampa Bay Chamber Ex Ofcio Board, Stratz Center Board, and Trustee for Florida Palms. For more information on HCPS and Davis, visit www. hillsboroughschools.org.

GROWING HILLSBOROUGH READDRESSES ITS GREENWAYS VISION AND RESIDENT CONCERNS

By Linda Chion

Paved and unpaved trails for fitness, sports, recreation and transportation, and adding a lot more of them, is representative of the work of Hillsborough County ofcials set to update the Greenways Master Plan, which afects bikers, boaters, equestrians and pedestrians alike.

That’s what brought John Patrick, the county’s division director for strategic infrastructure planning, to the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library in Valrico in July, as well as to the SouthShore Regional Library in Ruskin and the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library in Tampa. An August 1 virtual meeting was scheduled as well.

Hillsborough County commissioners, at their March 23 meeting, approved an update to the 1995 Hillsborough Greenways Master Plan. Recommendations for a variety of greenways, including natural surfaces, paved trails, natural surface trails and blueways (or recreational waterways) were to be presented at the board’s August 15 meeting.

“The philosophy of the master plan then concerned quality of life infrastructure, providing trails as a place to bike safely and take the family for a walk,” Patrick said at the Bloomingdale Library meeting. “Now the philosophy is changing to include trails needed to go places for work as well.”

At the library meetings, attendees listened to a project overview, accessible as well on the county’s virtual engagement and

education hub, which also asked for comments from equestrians, mountain bikers, hikers and more. “We want residents to tell us where they would put their money, we want them to give us input on that,” Photo by Linda Chion. Patrick said. “Not surAt the July 26 meeting at the Bloomingdale prising, it is Florida,

Regional Public Library in Valrico (from we heard people want left to right): Katie Habgood, senior planner with PSG consulting; John Patrick with Hillsborough County; and outreach consultant Tammy Vrana of Vrana Consulting Inc. shaded trees along the trails. They want shared-use pads, for sharing trails with bikers and pedestrians, and they want connectivity. They want to go somewhere.” Indeed, at the Bloomingdale Library on July 26, posted comments included demands for more mountain bike trails and dedicated bike lanes; sidewalk improvements and additions; wildlife corridors; destination features, including brew pubs and live music; and connectivity improvements, such as to schools, stores and restaurants. One comment asked for connecting the Croom Rital Road trail to the Valrico/Lithia area. While broad in many aspects, some recommendations were more particular in nature, including one for trail repaving at Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park and one for another canoe launch on the Alafia River. “It’s very important to look at more trails, how we can meet the needs of residents and how many we need as well,” Patrick said. To read online comments and view the Greenways Master Plan update overview, including maps, cost and timelines details, visit www.publicinput.com/D2816.

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K-9 BAILEY, THE USF THERAPY DOG AT YOUR DOOR WITH A CLICK OF A BUTTON

By Sydney Burken

Since December of 2020, students at the University of South Florida (USF), Tampa campus, have had the opportunity to visit or be visited by therapy dog K-9 Bailey. Her first responsibility is to answer calls related to violent crimes. She will sit with the victim of the violent crime and calm them to the point where they are comfortable enough to speak further with law enforcement.

Earlier in the year of 2020, it had been discussed to have a therapy dog available to the USF community. When the discussion was solidified in who would be taking this responsibility on, ofcer Nicole Marchesano produced a PowerPoint presentation filled with statistics and facts on the need and justification to have a therapy dog on campus and available to all students, faculty as well as staf. By December 2020, K-9 Bailey was a part of Marchesano’s team.

Marchesano created a ‘Bailey Button,’ which can be found on the USFPD website under resources. This button allows USF students easy access to requesting K-9 Bailey. K-9 Bailey and her handler, Marchesano are on campus from 8 a.m.5 p.m., Monday through Thursday. However, they adjust their schedule when necessary to meet the needs of the USF community. The reasons for requests and the ones at the top of the list are people

in need. This can include someone seeking K-9 Bailey due to having high anxiety for a plethora of reasons, such as a loved one having died, dealing with a break-up with a significant other, struggling to stay focused an exam and more. K-9 Bailey’s job is to provide them with the comfort they need. The University of K-9 Bailey was stopped when walk- South Florida community ing the campus for four students is able to request K-9 Baito get a few moments of relaxation and to take their mind of schoolwork. ley by simply stopping her if you see them on campus, email, call or using the Bailey Button. The Bailey Button is also used for groups who want Marchesano to show up to their dorms for fun, staf meetings for distress or public/social functions. “K-9 Bailey can be described as my 3-year-old, goofy, sweet, loving mental health crusader. K-9 Bailey has been with me since I got her in December of 2020. K-9 Bailey and I have a multidisciplinary therapy license and … an advanced AKC Canine Good Citizen certification. She is also a graduate of Project Pup, which allows Bailey to work in hospital settings,” said Marchesano. For more information on K-9 Bailey and what services as a therapy dog she provides, please visit www.usf.edu/administrative-services/university-police/about/ contact-up.aspx, email usfpdpio@usf.edu or call 813-974-2628.

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BRANDON ‘86 ROTARY CHARTERS INTERACT SERVICE CLUB FOR TEENS

By Christine Ans

Do you know a student in grades 9-12 that may have an interest in leadership opportunities and chance to serve in 2022-23? If so, you or your high school-aged child may enjoy the new Interact club coming to Hillsborough County and Rotary District 6890 this month.

This new youth-based organization, for ages 14-18, is the first community-based Interact club in District 6890. It is also one of less than a handful of community-based Interact clubs in the United States.

The Interact Club of Tampa Bay (ICTB) is being created to serve the youth of Hillsborough County and provide resources to the students to help prepare them with life and leadership skills as they transition to whatever avenue they choose to take after high school. The club’s intent is to prepare them for what comes next and educate them on all options available, whether that is college, trade school or serving in the military. The club is also focused on helping students obtain community service opportunities, which will help the students as they apply for scholarships as well as teach them the importance of community service.

“We realized there was an opportuni-

ty to provide students with a dual-purpose club opportunity that serves all the students of our county while preparing them for life after Tis new youth-based organization, for ages 14-18, is the frst community-based Interact club in District 6890 high school and providing community service opportunities that teach them how to give back to their community.” said Chad Norgard, president of Brandon ’86 Rotary Club. Currently, Brandon ’86 Rotary Club is planning for 20-30 students to start of this year. The ICTB leadership team has chosen Financial Literacy as its first-year project and is currently working on the details for a fundraising project that will provide local elementary schools with books to help replenish their media centers and help children that need assistance with raising their reading scores. The Interact Club of Tampa Bay is being sponsored by Brandon ’86 Rotary Club. The chartering ceremony was held on August 8 at the Rivard-Simmons Rotary Event Center in Brandon. For more information on joining the Interact club or Brandon ’86 Rotary Club, email info@brandon86rotary.com or call 813-454-5072.

LOCAL BOY SCOUT BUILDS BENCHES AND PERGOLAS FOR EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT

By Sofa Celis Avellaneda

Dawson James Nathaniel Gomez is a member of Boy Scout Troop 83 in Riverview and recently achieved the highest advancement rank in Scouting — the Eagle Scout rank.

To earn the Eagle Scout rank, a Scout must fulfill requirements in the areas of leadership, service and outdoor skills and advance through the ranks of Scouting. Gomez has been a Scout since elementary school and has worked hard to achieve his goal.

“Nothing quite beats Eagle. It is the highest honor ofered in Scouting, but I do have other various awards and merit badges from smaller activities,” said Gomez.

Gomez’s Eagle Scout project was installed at the Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center in Ruskin. The installation of two pergola-covered benches was suggested by Hillsborough Co. Parks. He enjoyed Camp Bayou as a Cub Scout and wanted to make it more comfortable for others, so overseeing the completion of these benches seemed like a perfect fit. One of them was put in the Enchanted Forest area, a place for young children, so parents would have a place to sit and rest. The other bench was made for a new trail. Gomez had a lot of support and

help with his project. Supporters such as the Riverview VFW Post 8108 helped with purchasing the materials for the bench, and he had a great team to help build the benches. The paperwork for the completed project was submitted one day before his 18th birthday. Gomez attended LenDawson James Nathaniel Gomez nard High School in the with his fnished bench project. collegiate program during his freshman year, but after his first year of high school he transferred to Riverview High School and graduated with honors this past May. He was accepted into Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he is attending this fall. Gomez wants to major in cybersecurity. When asked about his obstacles in Scouting, Gomez stated, “The biggest one for me was leadership and the weight of responDawson James Nathaniel Gomez sibility. To become an Eagle with Camp Bayou board members Donna Carty and Noelle Licor. Scout, you must serve active leadership roles in your troop for many months.” As for advice in Scouting, he said, “My advice is to jump in. Find your local troop, contact their leadership and go to a few meetings. You’ll get a great feeling for troop synergy and if it’s a place you want to be.” To find out more about Camp Bayou or plan a visit, go to www.campbayou.org.

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE SPURLINO FAMILY YMCA?

By Libby Hopkins

The Riverview and Gibsonton communities have enjoyed a brandnew YMCA since January 2019. The Spurlino Family YMCA is the newest location in the Tampa YMCA Association. The building is LEED Gold certified and won a design award from the Hillsborough County Planning Commission in fall 2019.

Families can join a reading club for little ones, youth sports and swimming lessons for all ages. Adults and kids also can enjoy the great outdoors on the walking trail and shaded picnic areas. The Spurlino Family Y is more than a place to work out, as it’s also a place for family fun. “It has since grown to be one of the largest YMCAs in all of the Tampa Bay region,” said Spurlino Family Y’s executive director, Jarrod Williams. “We staf approximately 120 employees.”

This past year, the Spurlino Family Y has provided over a quarter of a million dollars in financial assistance to families struggling financially. “We have a board of advisors comprised of 18 volunteers,” Williams said. “The Spurlino Family Y is the perfect place for health seekers and families alike to stay engaged in a variety of classes and programs designed to develop health and wellness.”

Williams has made the YMCA his career. “I have been working in the YMCA movement for more than 12 years,” Williams said. “I have been working in the Tampa Association for four and a half years. Three years were spent at the Campo Family YMCA in Valrico,

and I have been leading the Spurlino Family YMCA since May of 2021.” The Spurlino Family YMCA is a staple in southern Hillsborough County. “Many of the Te Riverview and Gibsonton communities have programs we ofer enjoyed a brand-new YMCA since January 2019. are also ofered at Te Spurlino Family YMCA is the newest location in the Tampa YMCA Association. Te building is LEED Gold certifed and won a design award from the Hillsborough County Planning Commission. other Ys in the area, but the thing that sets the Spurlino YMCA apart is that it was built with efciency and conservation in mind,” Williams said. “We have been recognized for our outstanding building strategies and practices. This is something we are very proud of.” If you ask Williams what his favorite part of his job is, he will tell you it’s seeing guests transform. “What I like most about what I do is seeing lives positively transformed on a daily basis,” Williams said. “Whether it is someone on their weight-loss journey, a child learning how to swim or a child scoring their first soccer goal, we change lives every day and the stories that stem from these moments are powerful.” Williams and his staf are excited about new programming that will be ofered at the Spurlino Family Y very soon. “We are excited to be launching a pediatric cancer program for children battling and recover from cancer,” Williams said. “The ofcial launch date is still to be determined, but we are hoping to start in late fall.” For information, visit www.tampaymca. org/locations/spurlino-family-ymca-bigbend-road or call 813-228-9622 and it’s located at 9650 Old Big Bend Rd. in Riverview.

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HCC’S NEW BRANDON CAMPUS PRESIDENT SET FOR TODAY’S CHALLENGES

By Linda Chion

The road from law to academia has been a seamless one for Deborah Kish Johansen, who in January started her job as president of Hillsborough Community College’s (HCC) Brandon campus and is chair-elect for the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce.

Licensed to practice corporate law, Johansen said she entered the collegiate career track after learning of an opportunity through a previous chamber afliation and then serving as an adjunct professor at Valencia College in Orlando, where she taught business law.

“I loved being around students on the college campus and seeing the light bulbs go of,” said Johansen, whose subsequent rise in academia took her to Colorado, Arizona and back again to Florida. She’s held positions of chief academic ofcer, chief operating ofcer, academic dean and graduate and undergraduate faculty, and before Brandon she was vice president of academic afairs at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville.

Johansen said Brandon campus issues include shifting enrollment patterns, ongoing attention to health and safety support, deferred maintenance of facilities and support for new programs and activities.

“Enrollment decline is a national issue, and we are no diferent,” Johansen said. “We do see some enrollment growth this fall semester, and we are excited about that.”

To maintain momentum, “we need to meet the modern challenges of students who want diferent flexibilities and learn-

ing styles,” Johansen said, as she noted hybrid learning opportunities that involve both in-class and online instruction. In the works is the FINTECH program for financial technologies, which would include studies in cybersecurity and apps for online banking and investment services. Under research is a certificate Deborah Kish Johansen ofering, followed by a twoyear degree program and a connection with HCC’s fouryear college partners, Johansen said. Newly established is HCC’s associate degree program in supply chain management, an especially relevant field today, Johansen said. She noted as well aquaculture and biotechnology studies, which, through the FUSE program, forges a pathway to biology degree studies at the University of South Florida. In keeping with its workforce readiness focus, HCC this fall launched the Bachelor of Science in nursing degree for registered nurses to continue their studies, the first four-year degree program ofered in HCC’s 54-year history. It’s aimed to address the critical shortage of nurses locally and nationwide. Also new this fall is the Pre-Health Society, under the auspices of the American Medical Student Association Club. Johansen plugged as well the seventh annual Hawk Run, scheduled for Saturday, October 22, “which last year raised enough money to start an endowment for scholarship perpetuity,” she said. For more on Johansen and HCC Brandon campus oferings, visit www.hccfl.edu.

ALIGN RIGHT REALTY RIVERVIEW CELEBRATES THREE YEARS, OVER 100 AGENTS AND NEW OFFICE

By Taylor Wells

Te Align Right Realty Riverview team.

Lisa Tackus, owner and broker of Align Right Realty Riverview, has had a lot to celebrate recently, as not only has her real estate agency been open for three years as of August and gained over 100 licensed agents, but she also now has a new ofce.

Tackus has been a resident of the area for over 20 years. She opened the ofce for full operation in August 2019, and it is the first franchise in the company, according to Tackus. It provides full real estate services, including residential, commercial, referrals, rentals, home evaluations and first-time homebuyer seminars.

“I’ve been running businesses throughout my entire career, the last seven years focusing mostly on real estate.” Tackus said. “Being a native Floridian and understanding the market, I think I have more of a competitive advantage over most.”

Plus, she has both a real estate broker license and a mortgage loan originator license — which gives her a competitive understanding of all facets of the real estate industry — as well as master’s degrees in business and social work. All of it adds up to Align Right Realty Riverview’s great success.

“We’re not just in it to sell or buy, we’re in it for a long-term relationship,”

Tackus said.

She got her new ofce, Align Right

Realty Suncoast, after purchasing it from Johnny Loewy, founder and CEO of the Align Right Realty company, in May; it began as the company’s first ofce. The Suncoast ofce opened in mid-August and has around 100 agents. The two ofces are seeking real estate agents, as well as talented mentors for their mentor program. With a mission to help agents reach their goals, whether new and seasoned, they’ll have access to all they need to advance their business, such as ongoing support, training, opportunities for 100 percent of their commission, their own websites and much more. There are also many events and activities, including monthly meetings and family nights out, luncheons and foam parties.

Tackus stated, “The culture is a big reason that drew me to the company.”

If you’re interested in a career at either ofce, call 813-563-5995 and ask for office recruiter Patrick.

For more information about the Riverview ofce, located at 11962 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview, visit https:// alignrightriverview.com/ or call 813-5635995. For the Suncoast ofce, located at 17427 Bridge Hill Ct. in Tampa, visit https://alignrightsuncoast.com/ or call 813-512-2100.

KEEP TAMPA BAY BEAUTIFUL HOSTS HILLSBOROUGH RIVER & COASTAL CLEANUP

By Taylor Wells

For anyone wanting to help out the local environment and make it nicer to look at and spend time in, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful (KTBB) is holding its Hillsborough River & Coastal Cleanup (HRCC) this month as part of the Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup.

The HRCC will be held at various locations along the Hillsborough River, Alafia River, Little Manatee River, Lake Thonotosassa and other waterways throughout Hillsborough County. Some landlocked areas will also have sites, as an estimated 80 percent of land trash ends up in waterways. So far, around 20 sites have been established, but more are planned.

KTBB works entirely with volunteers, and it’s always in need of more, including ones to be site captains, who are responsible for signage, supplies and managing a site’s operation. Site captains are given safety training, and they’ll give safety information to volunteers. In the 2018 event alone, 3,084 volunteers collected 67,195 lbs. of litter and debris from local roads and waterways.

“I personally have just found it really rewarding getting to go out and see how enthusiastic all our volunteers are … and it really helps seeing everybody so happy to be out there,” said Kira Baker,

environmental project coordinator at KTBB. “Without them, we wouldn’t see this diference, and they really are making a difference.” Baker added that she could only imagine A volunteer group helping with Keep Tampa Bay how bad things Beautiful’s Hillsborough River & Coastal Cleanup. would be without KTBB’s frequent volunteers. This HRCC will be diferent from KTBB’s other cleanups, as it’s giving volunteers the opportunity to help the Ocean Conservancy gather information — by collecting items and recording data, like what items they find, the amount of each kind and the strangest finds — needed for future eforts as well as spread awareness of these needs. The most common litter found in waterways are plastic pieces, along with cigarette butts, plastic bottles and foam pieces. The strangest include e-scooters, a bike rack and a piano, among many others. The cleanup will be held on Saturday, September 17. Check-in is at 8 a.m., and the cleanup is from 8 a.m.-11 a.m., or until completion. Times may vary by site. For more information or to become a volunteer or site captain, visit www.eventbrite. com/e/hillsborough-river-coastal-cleanup-2022-tickets-392525423107 or email Baker at projects@keeptbb.org. To learn more about KTBB, visit www. keeptampabaybeautiful.org.

PERUVIAN ART DONATION FINDS PERMANENT HOME AT CENTER PLACE

By Libby Hopkins

Local, retired pediatrician and Valrico resident Dr. Fernando Velasquez has had an amazing medical career. He is originally from Peru but moved to the states to practice medicine, and he had a thriving practice in West Tampa for many years. “I love being a pediatrician,” Dr. Velasquez said. “I liked working closely with my patients and their families to ensure healthy development and growth.”

Dr. Velasquez took up painting in the ’90s as way of relaxing. “I am a self-taught painter,” he said. “I never took a painting class; I was just inspired by my life in Peru, so that’s what I painted, images of my life and the people I knew in Peru.”

Over the years and many trips to Peru, Dr. Velasquez’s ofce became full his paintings and artwork he brought back from his country. When he retired, Dr. Velasquez and his wife, Lourdes, realized they didn’t have room for all the paintings and artwork.

A close friend of theirs, Luis Castellanos of Brandon, reached out to the Osprey Observer to see if the paper knew of any art centers that would be willing to take Dr. Velasquez’s art and use it to help raise money for children’s charities or programs. “The idea was to donate them to some charity organization for selling or auction, so the proceeds will benefit a specific cause, mainly children or any other nonprofit organization,” Castellanos said. The Osprey Observer reached out to Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association. “I was very interested in meeting with Dr. Velazquez and seeing his art,” said Center Place’s executive director, Libby Hopkins. “Once I saw how beautiful Dr. Velazquez’s painting were and the amazing wooden artwork he had, I wanted it to be a permanent

Local, retired pediatrician and exhibit at Center Place.”

Valrico resident Dr. Fernando None of Dr. Velazquez’s Velasquez has had an amazing medical career. He is also an avid painter, and his artwork has found a permanent home at Center Place paintings are framed, and for them to be hung at Center Place, they will need to be

Fine Arts & Civic Association. framed. “Dr. Velazquez has over 60 unframed paintings, and since he is a resident of Valrico, I would love for our community to come together and help Center Place get his artwork framed so it will be a permanent exhibit that will be hung in Center Place every July and be Dr. Velasquez’s legacy,” Hopkins said. “Dr. Velasquez and his family asked if his works could be shown every July because July is when Peru gained its independence.” If you would like to help Center Place get Dr. Velasquez’s art work framed, so it can be a permanent exhibit at Center Place, please contact Libby Hopkins via email at libby.hopkins@centerplacebrandon.com or call her at Center Place at 813-685-8888. Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B inside the Brandon Regional Library.

VISIT TAMPA BAY OFFERS CRAFT BEER PASSES TO LOCAL BREWERIES

By Libby Hopkins

Tampa Bay is known for many things, but its numerous craft beer breweries are what make our fair city the most popular.

It’s so popular that Visit Tampa Bay has created a Bay Crafted Brewery Pass. “With the Tampa Bay region being home to the greatest concentration of craft breweries in the state of Florida, it’s impossible to tell the destination’s story without including craft beer,” said Visit Tampa Bay’s director of public relations, Vanessa Evans. “As a destination that works closely with our partners and one that is always looking for the next diferentiator, Visit Tampa Bay started working with its craft brewery partners several years ago, and the success since that time has been tremendous.”

The Bay Crafted Pass was designed to drive economic impact to partner breweries in Hillsborough County by marketing to beer and cocktail enthusiasts in Florida and drive markets. “Visitors would download the electronic passport, check in at diferent breweries via geo targeting and be able to claim prizes from Visit Tampa Bay if enough locations were visited,” Evans said. “As a partnership-based organization, Visit Tampa Bay presented the opportunity to be included in the Bay Crafted campaign to all its craft brewery partners located within Hillsborough County. New breweries can be added at any time, so long as they are located within the destination.”

The Bay Crafted Pass is 100 percent free. Guests can access the electronic passport on their mobile device and will receive more information on over 20 participating brew-

eries. “While there is no ‘brewery tour’ included with the Bay Crafted Pass, guests will be able to isit Tampa Bay has created a Bay Crafted Brewery Pass. Tis pass is free and can be downloaded onto your phone. virtually check in and log visits to diferent locations,” Evens said. “Guests would essentially visit each brewery as they would any other establishment; however, by visiting enough locations, guests can redeem prizes from the Unlock Tampa Bay Visitors Center in downtown Tampa. Prizes include a Bay Crafted pint glass, a Bay Crafted T-shirt and a Tampa Bay cocktail guide.” Craft beer is woven into the fabric of all Visit Tampa Bay’s marketing to food and drink enthusiasts, but people don’t travel specifically for craft beer anymore. “It’s everywhere,” Evans said. “Visitors expect something local on tap wherever they visit. But while many cities claim to be craft beer destinations, Tampa Bay is one of the original and best, especially in Florida.” Visit Tampa Bay incorporates the destination’s local craft beer scene into its diverse array of available options for visitors who like nightlife, elevated dining and worldclass attractions. “The organization recently hit the road this summer, visiting target markets across the northeast to participate in ‘tap takeovers’ with bars ofering iconic Tampa Bay brew on special,” Evans said. “Coming up, Visit Tampa Bay will continue to include the local craft beer scene as part of its focus on foodies to support the destination being included in the first-ever MICHELIN Guide to Florida.” For more information on the Bay Crafted Brewery Pass, visit www.visittampabay. com/baycrafted/pass. Staf Report

Fall is the perfect time in Florida to enjoy the outdoors, and what better way than to visit the 2022 Hillsborough County Fair? The theme of this year’s fair, ‘Homegrown Fun,’ is just a glimmer of all the fair has to ofer, which includes an expanded carnival with spectacular midway rides and new kiddie rides, free entertainment for high-speed thrill seekers and motor enthusiasts, a cattlewomen’s beef cook-of, beauty pageants for all ages and lots of discounts for the entire family.

The fair will run for 11 full days, ofering more time to enjoy the rides, food and exhibits at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover, just east of Brandon, from Thursday, November 3 to Sunday, November 13.

Prior to the fair, the Harvest Queen Scholarship Pageant will take place on Saturday, October 1. Youth contestants from Hillsborough County will grace the stage to compete in the annual scholarship pageant for the title of Hillsborough County Fair Harvest Queen and Junior Harvest Queen, which serve as the fair ambassadors for the 2022 fair.

This year, free daily entertainment will include the Camel Kingdom Show, Disc-Connected K9s and the educational Firefighter Show.

Take a stroll through the historical Hometown Hillsborough area and the fair invites children of all ages to participate in Cowboy Camp by Les McDowell to enjoy some fun of yesteryears! Hillsborough County School District ofers school exhibit displays in the “Little Red Schoolhouse”. Sit down and relax in our Entertainment Pavilion and enjoy the sounds and entertainment from the community stages! One of the highlights of each year’s fair are the Youth Livestock Shows and Sales, which will be held from November 3-13 in the new 18,000-square-foot Livestock Exhibition Building. Additionally, special arena events for pet and motorsport enthusiasts are back. The Bulls, Broncos and Barrel Racing Rodeo for budding cowboys will be held on Friday and Saturday, November 4 and 5.

The ever-exciting Demolition Derby for motor enthusiasts who enjoy watching drivers of cars, mini-vans and station wagons deliberately ram into each other will make its return to the fair on November 13.

The fair wouldn’t be complete without the Truck and Tractor Pull on Friday and Saturday, November 11 and 12, where you can watch antique tractors, hotrods and the BIG BOY trucks and tractors come out to compete in our dirt arena.

For ticket purchasing information and promos, including a special online-only Advanced Purchase Family Package, as well as fair hours and event schedules, visit https:// hillsboroughcountyfair.com/2022-fair/.

By Lily Belcher

Bloomingdale High School graduate Jack Owens was awarded the 2022 Tony Saladino Memorial Baseball Award on August 7 and became coach Kris Wilken’s first athlete to win the award.

“[Coach Wilken] has had some great players on his past teams and to be even a thought of being a part of those great players is insane to me,” said Owens. “I was always the smallest kid, and even today I still am, but Kris has trained me to the max to become the best player I can possibly be.”

The Stetson University commit was recognized for his exceptional talent on the field, boasting a 1.80 ERA and 53 strikeouts over 35 innings pitched. He batted .460 with 17 RBIs and five homeruns, showcasing impressive talent both on the mound and at the plate.

While the Saladino Award is given to an outstanding athlete, the character, leadership and scholarship of the recipient is taken into consideration. Owens, in addition to being team captain, was on principal’s honor roll and led the team to the state title as a junior last year.

“Jack understands that without accountable actions for himself, he can’t create trust

among those he’s leading,” said Wilken in his nomination of Owens. “… Jack is tough, accountable, respectful and caring.” Owens said teammate Makye Hayes expressed that the team played difMother Angela Owens, son Jack Owens, Tony Sal- ferently when Owadino, and father Jack Owens as the Bloomingda- ens is on the field. le graduate receives the Saladino Award. Owens took this to heart and reflected on how his performance could impact the team. He narrowed it down to one quote he tries to live by: “Treat others how you would want to be treated.” “Just by that quote I ended up pitching the best game,” said the Saladino Award recipient. “We ended up winning, and, most importantly, we all had fun because it doesn’t matter the talent level — if the chemistry level on a team is high, you will win.” The 5’11” Valrico native is the third award recipient from Bloomingdale High School, following Mike Valdes in 1995 and Ryan Strauss in 2004. “The Tony Saladino Memorial Baseball Award was established in 1971 and is presented annually to the outstanding high school senior baseball player in Hillsborough County as a memorial for my late father and my late wife, Bertha, to promote high school baseball,” said Tony Saladino.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY BUCS HOSTS USA WHEELCHAIR FOOTBALL LEAGUE TOURNAMENT

By Lily Belcher

The Hillsborough County Buccaneers Wheelchair Football Team hosted the second of three meets in the USA Wheelchair Football League (USAWFL) tournament at the Tampa Convention Center from August 24 through August 28. Eight teams competed for the title, with the Kansas City Chiefs emerging victorious at the end of the tournament.

“Everybody can play football. Just because you are in a wheelchair doesn’t mean you can’t play football,” encouraged Hillsborough County Buccaneers Wheelchair Football Team coach Wayne Bozeman.

This is the first time Hillsborough County has hosted the tournament and only the second time the Hillsborough County Buccaneers have participated. The team of 20 athletes, from 20-50 years of age, have been practicing since May and placed fourth at the end of August, losing to the Arizona Cardinals.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers showed their support through the partnership and provided helmet decals, shirts and a pep talk by former Buccaneers safety and Superbowl MVP Dexter Jackson. Jackson spoke to the team during the Friday night banquet that served dinner and drinks to the athletes as they got to know one an-

other better. Football is not the first sport made accessible to those with disabilities in the area, but USAWFL is the first of its kind for those with Te Hillsborough County Buccaneers huddle midgame in physical the annual USA Wheelchair Football League tournament. disabilities looking to play football, according to its website. The league was made possible by the NFL Salute to Service Award and the Bob Woodruf Foundation. “The wheelchairs run from $4000 to $7000, just for a sports chair to play in,” said Bozeman. “With the support of the community, they can get these for the kids [and] put it in the program. [Then,] the program has a chair they can use for everybody, not just one person.” Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation hosts year-round sports, from archery to basketball to track and field, through its Adaptive Sports program, which now includes football. The availability of these sports to those in wheelchairs promotes a healthy and active lifestyle for all participants while encouraging a fun and supportive community. For more information on the Hillsborough County Buccaneers Wheelchair Football Team, visit its website at www. hillsboroughcounty.org or contact Mary Cales at 813-416-0467.

LOCAL MILITARY BRAT AND COLLEGE STUDENT WRITES BOOK FOR MILITARY TEENS

By Michelle Caceres

A local college student and military brat’s desire to help other children of active-duty military personnel cope with constant change associated with military life inspired him to write a book.

Valrico resident Shanon Hyde, a junior at Penn State University majoring in aerospace engineering, drew from his own experiences to write Dear Military Teen: Moving, Deployments, and Winning the Game of High School, published on July 28.

“This book is dedicated to other military teens and brats like myself and helps provide advice and solutions for problems unique to us,” said Hyde, whose father retired from the Marine Corps two years ago.

One topic he writes about is how to approach the challenges of moving to diferent cities every few years. During his childhood, he lived in California, Virginia, North Carolina, back to the same base in Virginia, Japan and back to North Carolina. The family moved to Valrico after his father retired.

When his family moved to Virginia the summer before he started seventh grade, he thought the transition would be easy because he had already met

friends there the first time his family was stationed there. “I incorrectly assumed that my old friends would want to be friends with me again, so that turned out to be my most difcult move,” he said. Before writing the book, Hyde created a podcast titled The Shanon Show: The Best Military Kids Podcast, where he inValrico resident and college student Shanon terviewed military Hyde wrote a book for military kids that can kids and teens and be purchased on Amazon. noticed many overarching issues. The podcast inspired him to write the book, which took almost two years to complete. “So many military kids limit themselves because they just want to fit in and survive, but that can limit their potential,” he said. He encourages military kids to be outgoing after each move. The book also ofers tips for transferring credits from school to school. “Schools on military bases are more lenient when it comes to transferring credits than other schools,” he said. For more information about Hyde, visit his Apple podcast, The Shanon Show: The Best Military Kids Podcast. To purchase his book, which costs $13.99, visit www.amazon.com.

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA’S NEW ASSISTANT CONDUCTOR DEBUTS AT FREE POPS IN THE PARK IN SEPTEMBER

Staf Report

New assistant conductor Chelsea Gallo will make her debut at The Florida Orchestra’s (TFO) free Pops in the Park concert at Vinoy Park. This year, TFO’s largest concert of the year will bring family-friendly music to St. Petersburg’s waterfront in September to celebrate the opening of the 55th season with the community.

The concert will be on Saturday, September 24 at 7:30 p.m. and feature film scores, Broadway hits and light classical favorites, conducted by Gallo. The nearly 30-year tradition annually packs the park with about 15,000 patrons, who spread out elaborate picnics with candelabras for free music under the stars.

TFO will give an encore performance on Sunday, October 2 at 7:30 p.m. at River Tower Park in Tampa. The spring Pops in the Park concert will be on Mother’s Day, May 14, at 7:45 p.m. at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park in Tampa. All park concerts will have food trucks from Gulf to Bay Food Truck Association. In a long-standing tradition, TFO will collect nonperishable goods for Tampa Bay Harvest’s annual food drive at all park concerts.

This fall is Gallo’s first season with the orchestra. She will lead TFO’s youth and community concerts, conduct select Raymond James Pops and Morning Coffee concerts and regularly assist music director Michael Francis and other conductors. The nonprofit Florida Orchestra exists to inspire, unite and educate as it builds community. TFO’s free and low-cost

Chelsea Gallo, new assistant conductor, will community conmake her debut at Te Florida Orchestra’s Pops certs break down in the Park concert at Vinoy Park, located at 701 Bayshore Dr. NE in St. Petersburg. barriers to ensure everyone has access to the power of live music. The orchestra announced more community concerts, including the return of Sing Out Tampa Bay. Maestro Francis’ signature Inside the Music series helps unlock the secrets to composers and their masterpieces so audiences can form a deeper connection with the music. Admission to all is pay what you can. TFO will perform over 100 concerts this season in venues throughout Tampa Bay. Francis launches the season with TFO’s 55th Celebration benefit concert featuring Itzhak Perlman on Saturday, October 1 at the Mahafey Theater. From Friday to Sunday, October 7-9, the Hough Family Foundation Masterworks series debuts with Carl Orf’s epic Carmina Burana, kicking of the classical series that includes Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, Rachmaninof’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and much more. The Raymond James Pops series has blockbusters such as Harry Potter vs Star Wars, Holiday Pops and the Beatles’ iconic Abbey Road album. For more information and tickets, visit https://floridaorchestra.org/.

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CHERYL HOWELL NAMED FIRST-EVER ASSISTANT COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR FOR EQUITY AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

Staf Report

Continuing a focus on providing equal opportunity for all residents, Hillsborough County has named Cheryl Howell the first-ever assistant county administrator for equity and community impact.

Howell, who has been the county’s Affordable Housing director since 2017, will help guide county policy to make sure all residents, including historically marginalized groups, have equal access to resources and opportunities to succeed and thrive.

In her new position, Howell will oversee the soon-to-be-created Ofce of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, which will center on jobs and economic development, afordable housing, health and human services, children’s services and transportation, as well as criminal justice, the digital divide and other issues.

“The county has taken a huge step that will help lead us to address our most painful and challenging problems in a measurable way. The Ofce of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will provide a pathway for citizens to engage and work toward meaningful solutions to uplift and further the common good for residents that have been marginalized and unheard,” said Howell.

Hillsborough County has been striving to address the causes and impacts of historic inequities on residents. In 2021, the board

of county commissioners commissioned a community equity profile (https://www. hillsboroughcounty.org/ library/hillsborough/ media-center/documents/bocc/community-equity-profile.pdf) that identified current inequities and recommended solutions, including the creation of a centralized ofce Cheryl Howell, Hillsborough County’s focusing on equity and frst-ever assistant county administrator diversity. Among the for equity and community impact. goals for the Ofce of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is to establish regular dialogue with the community focused on gaining input on initiatives and projects as well as continuing to assess and address community barriers towards equity. Throughout her three-decade career, Howell has been deeply involved in afordable housing, community development, economic inclusion and social services issues. In addition to her role as the county’s Afordable Housing director, she serves as a board member of the Florida Housing Coalition and Tampa Family Health Center and as executive director of the Florida Community Development Association. With this promotion, she becomes the highest-ranking African American female in Hillsborough County government. Howell is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s in public administration/urban planning. She received her master’s in public administration and management from Webster University.

The Sunshine State is home to about 13 transient species of hummingbirds thanks to our year-round tropical climate. Also known as ‘flying jewels,’ these rainbow-colored birds are a delight to observe. Blink and you may miss them; these tiny birds are as fascinating as they are exotic and beautiful.

With wings that can beat 50 times per second and thousands of times a minute, hummingbirds are incredibly tiny, fast-moving birds who get their name from the humming noises made by their fast-flapping wings. Their wings move so quickly that they are almost invisible to the naked eye. These fast movements also allow the birds to easily move forward, backward and upside down in an instant while hovering mid-flight.

Most hummingbirds are under 3.5 inches long and weigh less than a penny. While most species are temporarily visiting as they migrate further south, hummingbirds can be found all over the state. Their average lifespan is three to five years.

The most common species of hummingbirds found here is the ruby-throated hummingbird. The ruby-throated hummingbird is a native and year-round resident due to our warm weather. They are highly adapted to living almost anywhere and can be seen in urban and suburban areas. Their habitat mainly includes meadows, woodlands, grasslands and gardens.

Hummingbirds are important pollinators with a diet consisting mostly of nectar and insects. They love sugar! Nectar is found in particular tubular plants and flowers, such as firebush, cross vine, coral honeysuckle, butterfly milkweed and Florida flame azalea.

Their uniquely adapted long beak and tongue allow them access to the sweet nectar in targeted plants. It is a myth that their beak acts as a straw; rather, their tongue is forked for lapping up nectar and consuming up to half of their body weight every day. Hummingbirds are most attracted to brightly colored, native plants that are red, orange and pink.

Because of their fast and active lifestyle, hummingbirds usually eat continuously throughout the day. In fact, they are so busy eating that they can visit over 100 flowering plants a day.

An easy way to attract hummingbirds to your yard and garden is to hang a specialized hummingbird feeder, which will hold a simple sugar-water mixture. Feeders will need to be safely cleaned very frequently. Be sure to research how to keep the feeder clean and to never use any coloring dyes, honey or brown sugar, which can be toxic to the birds.

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

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A Kitten Place, Garage Sale, 5K & More...

Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com

Summerfeld Women’s Golf Association League Starts In October Billy ‘Elvis’ Lindsey Performing An Alzheimer’s Beneft Concert

The Summerfield Women’s Golf Association (SWGA) will begin its annual league play on Tuesday, October 4, and new players are invited to join. Membership is open to all women 18 years or older of amateur standing. The league consists of players at all levels, and a variety of games that are fun and challenging for everyone are played. A Summerfield Crossings Golf Club membership is not required; however, if you are not a member, then a league card is required. Tee times are at 8 a.m. on Tuesday mornings at Summerfield Crossings Golf Club, located at 13050 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview. If you are interested in joining or would like more information, contact Margaret at 517-410-3115.

Te Apollo Beach Women’s Club Monthly Luncheons Have Resumed

On September 14, the Apollo Beach Women’s Club (ABWC) will welcome new and returning members to its luncheon at Ruskin Moose Lodge #183, located at 1212 E. Shell Point Rd. in Ruskin. The guest speaker will be Craig Latimer, Hillsborough County’s supervisor of elections. Luncheons are held on the second Wednesday of every month at the Moose Lodge, except for December. The ABWC has been serving the community since 1959. Its primary objectives are to promote sociability among its members, work toward the advancement of womankind and provide scholarships for the education and training of students who live in Apollo Beach. New members are welcome. To learn more about the ABWC, visit its website at www. apollobeachwomansclub.com or contact Liz Pedersen at kenlizpedersen@msn.com.

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center (SCCUMC) welcomes Billy ‘Elvis’ Lindsey to its campus at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center, for a concert on Sunday, September 16 at 7 p.m. to benefit the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Lindsey has been giving Elvis tribute concerts for years and is the winner of numerous awards for his Elvis act. If you love great music from the past or have ever been a fan of Elvis and his music, you won’t want to miss this great concert for a wonderful cause. Tickets are available up to the day of the concert for $10 at the SCCUMC Christian Gift Shop at the church or online at www.sccumc.com via clicking the events tab.

Pelican Players Complimentary Shows

Pelican Players Community Theater is proud to present two complimentary shows on September 15. Join them to see The Twilight Zone - To Serve Man, directed by Ron Deitsch, and Father Knows Best - The Housekeeper, directed by Leslie Stull. Doors open at 6 p.m., and curtain time 6:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend. The Kings Point Veterans Theater North is located at 1900 Clubhouse Dr., in Sun City Center, please feel free to bring your own drinks, snacks and cups. Visit www. pelicanplayersscc.org for more information.

Your Next Step Is Te Cure 5K Run

Your Next Step is the Cure 5K run in Lithia will be taking place on Saturday, October 1. You can either run the easy 5K route from Park Square in Lithia or sign up for the new virtual option, which is especially helpful to encourage family

Phil Waldren presents a check for $50,000 to United Food Bank of Plant City. and friends who do not live locally to sign up. All monies raised goes directly to the Melanoma Research Foundation. Visit https://runsignup.com/race/fl/ lithia/yournextstepisthecure for additional information and to register for the event. If you are interested in sponsoring or donating to the event, please email yournextstepisthecure@aol.com.

Bloomingdale Neighborhood Garage Sale

The Bloomingdale Neighborhood Community Garage Sale is on Saturday, September 12 starting at 8 a.m. This annual sale features homes throughout the Bloomingdale East and West neighborhoods. A wide variety of items are usually available, including kitchen wares, books, furniture, clothing, toys and games and furniture. Addresses will be posted on the Bloomingdale Neighborhood Association website at www. bloomingdale.life.com. To have your house listed, email bl.neighbor1@gmail. com or call 813-681-2051.

A Kitten Place Rescue Looking For Vendors And Sponsors For 5K Run

Local cat and kitten rescue A Kitten Place is holding its annual Black Cat Halloween Run on Sunday, October 30 at Twin Lakes and is looking for vendors and corporate sponsors for the event. Last year, the 5K run had over 175 participants. If you are interested and would like more information or register for the event, please email akittenplace@gmail.com.

During September into October, there are a number of Jewish holidays. This is a time when most Jewish people want to attend the holiday services. High Holy Day services at Congregation Beth Shalom of Brandon are open to the community and are free, though donations are gladly accepted. Rabbi Lefkowitz and Sandy Santucci (cantorial soloist) will be leading the Selichot and High Holy services. Contact the temple ofce on 813-681-6547 or email cbs-brandon@ outlook.com if you have any questions and for the schedule of services.

East Hillsborough Democratic Club Meeting

The East Hillsborough Democratic Club will hold its monthly meeting at the Brandon Crossroads Bowl, located at 609 Crater Ln. in Tampa, on Tuesday, September 13 at 6:30 p.m. You may join in person or via Zoom by going to the monthly club calendar to register an hour before meetings. All like-minded individuals are welcome. For more information, go to www.easthillsboroughdems.org or call 813-677-8300.

Strawberry Ball Donates $50,000 To Food Bank

The Florida Strawberry Festival presented the proceeds from its annual Strawberry Ball to the United Food Bank of Plant City. “This year’s Strawberry Ball was a huge success,” said Phil Waldron, Florida Strawberry Festival chairman of the board. “Everyone enjoyed the food, the dancing, the theme, the entertainment and of course the fellowship.” The event raised a total of $50,000 for the nearby food bank.

Market Day Returning To FishHawk Ranch

The very popular FishHawk Ranch Market will be returning to Cross Park at 16144 Churchside Dr. in Lithia on Sunday, October 2 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. It will continue to take place on the first Sunday of each month until May 2023. There are always lots of unique vendors selling handcrafted and homemade items. For information on becoming a vendor, email sparvin@fishhawkranchcdd.org or call 813-957-1841.

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PASS-A-BOOK PROGRAM NEEDS BOOK DONATIONS TO KEEP STUDENTS READING

By Lily Belcher

The Pass-A-Book Program has been serving the community of young readers since Ruskin’s Heather Hindman launched the initiative to collect and donate books in 2016. Through community donations of children’s books, Hindman has been able to distribute over 4,500 books to schools, teachers and students in just eight years.

“As a former teacher, I had bins and bins of books in my garage. I loved them so much that I hated to part with them but finally decided they would be put to better use in the hands of children to love them,” said Hindman, who also attributes the program to her husband, who wanted the extra space in the garage.

After seeing the amount of community interest, Hindman turned the donation into a program that became an ongoing Bryan Hindman Electric Company service project. Since its inception, the Pass-A-Book Program has become a family, business and community efort as Hindman has watched her whole company get involved.

She works with her immediate family to distribute books but received help from her co-workers, Brandy Nelson, Christine Hannon, and community project coordinator Virginia Trotta.

Many of their electricians have helped carry and load heavy donation boxes, and her children help transport books to the donation sites as well. “One amazing community member decided to set up a makeshift library for the children living in her apartment building and we were proud to be a part of that,” explained HindTe Pass-A-Book Program collects and man. “Our biggest event donates books for grades K-5. is the [Parents and Children Advance Together] yearly graduation, where the children and their siblings choose books to take home to read over the summer.” The Pass-A-Book Program mostly donates K-2 picture books and chapter books for third through fifth graders, Donated books go to students and teach- but it accepts all books ers to promote reading. for students. This year, it is specifically looking for more board books to give away. While many of the donations come from families and thrift stores, the Pass-A-Book Program just received a huge donation of around 250 books from Collins Elementary School. These books were given to new teachers in Hillsborough County. To donate books to the Pass-A-Book Program now, bring the picture/chapter books to 1517 U.S. Hwy. 41 S. in Ruskin. Later this year, the drop-of site will change to 10021 Carr Rd. in Riverview. Staf Report

Naomie Bellows, an Ellenton resident and respiratory therapist at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South in Riverview, went on a two-week mission trip in June to provide health care services to an underserved community in the Peruvian city of Chulucanas.

Bellows went on her own time and expense as part of Global Health Volunteers, a program BayCare participates in that is organized by Trinity Health, a not-forprofit Catholic health system.

Bellows was among 30 volunteers from across the country, including doctors, who provided services such as wound care, well-care visits, medication dispensing and assessments for surgery. She and a nurse from St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa were the BayCare contingent on the trip. The volunteers saw about 150 patients daily, ages ranging from infants to 100 years old. Bellows did some breathing treatments, but she was mostly involved with administering laboratory tests. Bellows, who speaks some Spanish, was assisted by interpreters in her work.

“All the patients lived in diferent levels of poverty, but none of them had easy access to doctors,” she said. “Some had never seen a doctor before, and others had seen doctors but not in years. Some knew they had blood pressure or diabetes and knew they needed medication. They were very grateful for us being there.” This was her second mission trip through BayCare with Global Health Volunteers, the first being a mission to Haiti in 2018. She’s also done a Habitat for Humanity mission trip to Botswana. Bellows summarized her 2022 Peru trip: “Our goal was to provide basic medical care to the poor and underserved people of that region of Peru. Because of the pandemic, many mission teams had not reached patients in years and many were in desperate need of care or of simple reassurance that everything was OK with them and their loved ones.”

“Even though the care we provided was so essential to our patients, I feel that what I received from them was even greater. The people of this area have so little. Many have ailments that cannot be treated by a simple visit, yet they came to us every day with huge smiles on their faces and remained grateful for everything we did. Their resourcefulness and resilience is astounding. I am beyond grateful to our patients that have shared their culture with me and showed me how rich a life can be even with so little.”

And how did Bellows’ family, her husband and four kids, feel about her leaving them for two weeks in the summer?

“It wasn’t easy for them, but they were very supportive,” Bellows said.

CREATIVE COLORS INTERNATIONAL OF TAMPA–THEY CAN FIX THAT

By Libby Hopkins

There isn’t much that Creative Colors International of Tampa can’t fix. It is a local expert in leather repair.

Creative Colors International Inc. was founded in July 1991 through its afliate J&J’s Creative Colors Inc., a company that had been in business since 1980. Much like J&J’s Creative Colors, it provides the services of restoring, dyeing and repairing many types of material. “I’ve owned a Creative Colors franchise since August 2016,” said owner Patrick German. “My territory then was Pinellas County. Two years later, the owner in Hillsborough sold to me. I have lived in Brandon for 16 years, but when I started my franchise, that other owner was in this area, so I had to buy into Pinellas.”

Before becoming the owner of Creative Colors International, German had a career in financial business. “I took an early retirement from JPM Chase after 18 years there,” German said. “My career there, along with five years prior, was all in information technology, mostly software development.”

When German decided to leave Chase, he wanted to do something completely diferent. “Something with a lot of time outdoors working with your hands,” Ger-

man said. “It also needed to be something my son-in-law, who started the business with me, was interested in. The plan is to build it into a business he can take over and reCreative Colors International Inc. was founded in July tire from himself 1991 through its afliate J&J’s Creative Colors Inc., a company that had been in business since 1980. Much like J&J’s Creative Colors, it provides the services of restorone day. Which means it needed ing, dyeing and repairing many types of material. to be something that can’t be Amazoned, outsourced or done remotely.” Since Creative Colors International has been in existence for more than 40 years, German felt this company was the best fit for him to invest. “As a national franchise, we have the support of a large organization that continually researches and updates products,” German said. “It also sets a level of standards through that franchise system.” Another reason German decided to invest in Creative Colors International is because there is no brick and mortar building he had to purchase. “We don’t have a shop, the business is 100 percent mobile,” German said. This gives him the opportunity to connect and get to know his customers on a personal level. If you would like to learn more about Creative Colors International and the various services it offers, you can visit their website at www.wecanfixthat. com or call German at 813-343-4151.

REALTORS HOST SUMMERFIELD POKER NIGHT FOR CHARITY

By Libby Hopkins

Playing poker is fun, but when you’re playing poker for a cause, it’s even better. Susan Ciof, a realtor with RE/MAX Realty Unlimited, has been in the realty business for 19 years while also supporting numerous activities and charities in the area, such as Trick or Treat Street and with every closing she has a donation to the Children’s Miracle Network is made.

About nine years ago, one of Ciof’s coworkers, Michael Markus, asked for help with getting Christmas gifts for families of local veterans that were transitioning to new housing.

“It was through St. Vincent de Paul CARES,” Ciof said. “So, that year, we had a few families with children that our brokerage and fellow realtors helped during the holidays. Well, the next year, we did it again, but this time we had all the families that St. Vincent had, and it was a little more challenging, but we always got the majority of what they wanted.”

Ciof felt it was hard to ask a fellow realtor to sponsor a whole family when there were a lot of big-ticket items.

“Many of them ask for TVs, computers, freezers and other items we take for granted,” Ciof said. “So, I told Michael we should have a fundraiser so we can pay for the big tickets out of what we raised. The poker night fundraiser to help St. Vincent de Paul CARES was born.”

St. Vincent de Paul CARES is a nonprofit organization committed to ending homelessness by making it rare, brief and onetime. All of its programs are built on the belief that everyone has the right to live in dignified and afordable housing. With ‘Housing First’ principles at the core, it has a healthy disregard for all community-perceived barriers to housing, including employment history, criminal/credit background, mental health, addiction and religious practices.

The organization works to rapidly house those experiencing homelessness within 30 days and concurrently connect them to stabilization support services to assist their needs. The organization believes stable housing is the only solution to ending homelessness.

This year, the realtors’ poker night will be held on Friday, September 23 at Summerfield Crossings Golf Club. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. and includes the Texas Hold ’Em Tournament, food and desserts.

“We [are] still looking for more sponsors, and we need more poker players,” Ciof said. “We hope we can raise enough money to make these veterans and their families smile on Christmas morning. Would love to make this event the best and biggest one yet because we owe our veterans a lot for what they have done for us, so this is the least we can do for them.” explained Ciof. They are grateful for the major sponsors that do it every year, including RE/MAX Realty Unlimited, East Coast Pizza, Summerfield Crossings Golf Club, Nothing Bundt Cakes, All American Title, the Osprey Observer and many realtor friends.

To register, visit the fundraiser’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ events/551141029873702 or call Ciof at 813-956-8513.