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Community Is Invited To Submit Name Recommendations For New High School In Wimauma

Community Is Invited To Submit Name Recommendations For New High School In Wimauma

  Front side rendering of the New High School in Wimauma

 

     Hillsborough County Public Schools is seeking input for the name of the district’s new state-of-the-art neighborhood high school, set to open in August 2025.

     The public is invited to submit name recommendations for the new school, which will be located on an 87-acre site at 1712 West Lake Drive, Wimauma. The school, in the fast-growing area of south Hillsborough County, will accommodate nearly 3,500 students. The property will also be home to an elementary and middle school in the future.

     Names for the new high school, in the heart of the Wimauma community, can be submitted at https://bit.ly/HSUUU.

      Name submissions can be sent in from July 8 through August 9. All names submitted will be provided to the Hillsborough County School Board for their consideration.

           The School Board is scheduled to vote on a name at the September 5, board meeting.

      “This high school will be our most innovative project, one that our students will thrive in. The school will serve as the heartbeat of the Wimauma community and meet the evolving needs of our students. I thank the architects for their vision in designing this campus and the construction team for building this beautiful school with the goal of investing in our future – our children,” said Superintendent Van Ayres.

      Names under consideration must follow school board policy 7250. The naming and renaming of all school sites and facilities shall respect all races, cultural, and ethnic differences and values. Furthermore, the School Board prohibits the use of any school or facility name that is in direct violation with its School Board policy 2260 – Nondiscrimination and Access to Equal Educational Opportunity.

      School sites and facilities shall be named for individuals who have rendered outstanding public service to public education, for geographical locations, and for groups and clubs as indicated: Elementary, middle and secondary schools – for U. S. Presidents, school board members, educators, outstanding citizens and geographical locations. An elected official proposed for a school name shall have left public office for a period not less than five years. No candidate for public office shall be considered.

      To stay up to date on the school’s progress, please visit: High School UUU / Homepage (hillsboroughschools.org)

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B.B. King’s Grandson Is An Advocate And Educator For Victims Of Human Trafficking

B.B. King’s Grandson Is An Advocate And Educator For Victims Of Human Trafficking

Christopher King, Human Rights Activist and Founder of Gentlemen’s Course

 

By MONIQUE STAMPS

Sentinel Staff Writer

 

     Christopher King, the grandson of the legendary Blues musician B.B. King, has carved out a space for doing what he was called to do – fight for human rights.

    King, the son of B.B. King Jr., was born in Dallas, but raised in Savannah, GA. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Marines where he was deployed several times around the world, including Afghanistan.

  After leaving the Marines, King spent some time in the private sector before working for his famous grandfather as one of his road managers and his valet.

    King moved to Tampa in 2013, and was here when B.B. King passed away in 2015. Since then, he has made a big impact aiding victims of sexual and labor trafficking.

     While he managed his grandfather’s tour, he was also a fashion stylist and his valet. After his grandfather’s death, King needed to focus his talents in another direction.

    He was putting on fashion shows when he was introduced to the devastating losses brought on by human trafficking.

     King’s special fashion show for Miracles Outreach, an agency that provides foster care and support for girls aged 12 – 17 who have been victimized, opened his eyes.

     “They introduced me to the problem of human trafficking. Through inspiration from Miracles Outreach, I started a mentoring program now called the Gentlemen’s Course,” said King.

     The course is a purposeful program that can be delivered to any young person. It’s usually delivered in classrooms, with King getting contracts for middle schools to prevent human trafficking. Kids are taught etiquette, social skills, and human rights.

    “A lot of kids who are rescued from sexual and/or labor trafficking can’t just go back into the world. We want to provide materials and information for them as they return to their lives,” says King.

   “With incorporating human rights into our curriculum, we are hoping to educate youth with the proper tools to make better decisions as they mature and grow in today’s society.”

     King holds regular Gentlemen’s Courses for youth in schools and libraries. He also holds a Gentlemen’s Ball twice a year in support of humanitarian groups such as the Florida Coalition Against Human Trafficking and She Helps to Empower.

     King is also the president of the Florida chapter of the United for Human Rights Florida, working with groups like NAACP chapters from the area.

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Tampa Homes Undergo Critical Repairs For Free

Tampa Homes Undergo Critical Repairs For Free

KAYON HENDERSON

MAYOR JANE CASTOR

Applicants must live within the City of Tampa.

     In its continued effort to address the affordable housing crisis, the City of Tampa is awarding up to $100,000 to eligible homes that need critical repairs. Through the Healthy Homes Program, funded by a $1.9 million federal grant, the city aims to assist at least 90 households.

Monie Davis, an East Tampa homeowner, is in the midst of receiving her assistance, which started with a new roof in June. Ms. Davis experienced severe water damage due to a roof leak, and over the next few months, contractors will also assist with replacing new drywall, baseboards and cabinets in water-damaged areas, along with work on her HVAC, hot water heater, gutters, smoke detectors and more. In total, the city will pay over $98,000 for the repairs to her home.

     “Helping families remain in their existing homes is a part of our affordable housing initiative,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “It is our hope that we can give homeowners peace of mind while the program’s funding takes care of expensive repairs that will ensure the longevity of these homes.”

The grant from the U. S. Housing and Urban Development Department totals $1,999,560, with a match of $1,000,00 from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). But the money must be used within a certain timeframe. To be eligible for the funds, applicants must live in the City of Tampa, occupy the home, and meet income requirements (residents up to 80 percent Area Median Income are eligible).

     “This program aims to assist individuals with limited incomes, in making necessary repairs,” said Kayon Henderson, City of Tampa’s director of Housing and Community Development.  “We are eager to receive new applications to proceed with repairs for families in the upcoming year.”

While contractors are working on several homes, the City is also looking for new applicants for renovations, as the funding lasts fifteen months. That deadline is August of 2025.
For more information, and to fill out an application, please visit tampa.gov/healthyhomes.

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Local Chapter Pi Iota and Omega Psi Phi Are Grateful For Successful Conclave

Local Chapter Pi Iota and Omega Psi Phi Are Grateful For Successful Conclave

PI IOTA PRESIDENT AL SHERIFF AND OMEGA PSI PHI GRAND MARSHALL

TAMPA MAYOR JANE CASTOR WELCOMES OMEGA PSI PHI

 

BY MONIQUE STAMPS

Sentinel Staff Writer

       Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, hosted their 84th Conclave in Tampa last week to much fanfare. The city rolled out the purple carpet for the gentlemen of Omega, highlighting hospitality and gratitude for the fraternity’s visit.

   While the city is tallying final figures, it is estimated that over 60,000 Omegas, registered and unregistered, were in Tampa.

    Al Sheriff, Basileus of the Pi Iota graduate chapter, has been enthusiastic about the treatment of the brothers.

   “We’d like to thank the mayor and city for their hospitality. We had a great conclave.”

    Omegas are known for their signature party events and stepping; however, they also displayed a thoughtful approach to community engagement. Several community forums and programs addressed the Omegas’ goals for the Conclave, including voter information, legal issues, and organizing to get things done in the community.

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Kaleena McQueen, Non-Traditional Educational Authority Writes Book On Bullying

Kaleena McQueen, Non-Traditional Educational Authority Writes Book On Bullying

 

Kaleena McQueen

By MONIQUE STAMPS

Sentinel Staff Writer

     Kaleena McQueen, District Administrator for Non-Traditional Programs at Hillsborough County Public Schools, has written a children’s book about bullying. Titled How To Become Bullyproof, the book explores young Titan as he and his friends deal with bullying.

       McQueen is from Broward County but was raised in Haines City. She graduated from the University of Central Florida for both undergraduate and graduate school.

   McQueen spent over 10 years in Orange County in exceptional education. After reconnecting with her now husband, she moved to Tampa.

     She currently supports all non-traditional schools, including career centers, alternative schools, and schools for children with profound disabilities. Her area also includes the educational aspect of youth detention and Falkenburg Jail.

    McQueen has always loved to write. In high school, she wrote a student column for the Lakeland Ledger.

    “In 2016, my father was being treated for lung cancer. I was teasing him about being so confident. My father was a very dapper and intelligent man. He said that he wasn’t always this way. He had been bullied as a child. It moved me and I kept that memory.”

    McQueen’s father passed away, but she treasured his story of overcoming bullying,

   “I sent the short story to an editor who encouraged me to expand the story to a full book. It took me three years to get back to her, but the editor was still enthusiastic about the project.”

    The book explores the bullying of a middle school student and his father.

    “Titan is afraid of going back to school after the summer because of a bully who has targeted him and his friends.

     “Titan talks to his father about it, who goes to the school. Titan and his father come up with a plan for Big Bully Ben.”

   McQueen lives in Tampa with her husband, DeWitt Jones, and two children, Khalind and Dakota.

      The book is currently on book sites in the United Kingdom, Australia, Demark, and Canada. It can be purchased through Amazon Worldwide in all countries that receive Amazon orders.

     To purchase How To Become Bullyproof in the USA, visit one of these sites:

Amazon – https://a.co/d/12d9GJj

 Barnes and Noble

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-become-bully-proof-kaleena-mcqueen/1145643603?ean=9780228843832

Walmart 

https://www.walmart.com/search?q=9780228843832

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Skinmedic Wellness Offers Affordable Skin Care

Skinmedic Wellness Offers Affordable Skin Care

Aliyah Perez, Owner of Skinmedic Wellness

 

BY MONIQUE STAMPS

Sentinel Staff Writer

     Aliyah Perez, owner of Skinmedic Wellness, prides herself on the professionalism of her beauty and wellness center.

    Skinmedic specializes in luxurious spa treatments and full body hair removal services. Perez says Skinmedic provides a comprehensive approach to your overall well-being.

   Perez says that by placing the utmost importance on her clients’ comfort, each visit is an indulgent experience.

    Perez was born and raised in Brandon, where she graduated from Newsome High School a year and a half early. She originally thought of being a plastic surgeon, but the length of the educational requirements led her to try another route.

    “The reason I wanted to be a plastic surgeon was that I had terrible acne in high school. It came out of nowhere. My mother sent me to a dermatologist, but the medicines were too strong, and I continued to suffer for months.”

   “After that, my mother sent me to an esthetician, and I received my first chemical peel. My skin started looking better immediately. My mom suggested that I could go to school to be an esthetician.”

   “I knew that I wanted to help people like me, and I enrolled.”

    COVID happened right after her graduation from esthetician school.

   Perez worked in another spa for two years before deciding to branch out on her own.

    She opened Skinmedic Wellness in July 2023, and business increased very quickly. She had to move to a larger location earlier this year to accommodate the number of clients.

   Perez credits the spa’s welcoming atmosphere and common-sense pricing to her high school experience.

   “We aren’t charging as much as some of the other salons. We want skin care and beauty treatments to be affordable for everyone.”

    Skinmedic Wellness is located at 1045 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511. Please call 813-953-9330.

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Champions Of Change: Tampa Bay Leaders Take On Heart Disease And Stroke

Champions Of Change: Tampa Bay Leaders Take On Heart Disease And Stroke

SHERRYL J. CUSSEAUX

…2023 Tamp Bay Woman of Impact

DR. SHANI DAVIS

…2024 Woman Of Impact

 

CORNELL BOYD, III

…2024 Tampa Bay Teen of Impact

Recognized By American Heart Association

     In the heart of Tampa, two extraordinary individuals are leading the charge against heart disease and stroke, demonstrating the power of community and advocacy. Dr. Shani Davis and Cornell Boyd, III have been recognized as the American Heart Association’s 2024 Woman of Impact™ and Teen of Impact™ winners, respectively, for their relentless dedication to improving health outcomes in our communities.

     Davis, a distinguished nurse practitioner and owner of ‘Your Best You’ clinic in Tampa, has long been a beacon of hope for those affected by chronic diseases. With more than 22 years of experience, Dr. Davis has witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of heart disease, particularly among minority communities. Motivated by the disproportionate rates of cardiovascular mortality among Black women, she launched the inaugural “Heart & Soul Weekend,” a transformative event designed to raise awareness and foster fellowship within our community.

     “Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of Black women,” Davis said. “Through Heart & Soul Weekend, I wanted to create a space where healthcare information is delivered in a culturally relevant manner, ensuring that our community has access to the resources needed to combat this silent killer.”

      It all began for Davis with the Allen and Sherryl J. Cusseaux’s Heart Legacy Ambassadors, where she served as an Ambassador. Her nomination for the Woman of Impact distinction holds special significance as a “legacy nominee” by last year’s local winner,Sherryl J. Cusseaux, the first Black woman nominated for Tampa Bay Woman of Impact (WOI) with the 2023 Tampa nominees raising over $100K in the nine-week WOI campaign. Cusseaux recognized Davis’s tireless efforts in advancing health equity and amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities.

      Alongside Davis stands Cornell Boyd, III, a senior at Jesuit High School whose passion for promoting heart health is deeply rooted in personal experience. Inspired by his grandfather’s battle with heart disease, Cornell is committed to raising awareness and funds for heart research. As the winner of the Tampa Bay Teen of Impact campaign, he embodies the spirit of youth empowerment and community engagement.

     “My ‘why’ in accepting this role as the Tampa Teen of Impact is more than the title,” Cornell shares. “It’s about making a difference in the lives of those affected by heart disease, including my grandfather. Together, we can work towards a future where heart disease is no longer a leading cause of mortality.”

     As champions of change, Davis and Boyd exemplify the resilience and determination of Tampa Bay’s Black community. Their efforts not only raise awareness about the impact of heart disease and stroke, but also inspire hope for a healthier, more equitable future for all.

      In a city where diversity is celebrated and voices are amplified, these two champions of change remind us that each of us has the power to effect meaningful change. Through their advocacy and leadership, they are driving progress towards a world where heart disease and stroke are no longer barriers to longevity and wellness.

 

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The Next ‘Unity In The Community’ Event Will Happen This Sunday, June 23rd

The Next ‘Unity In The Community’ Event Will Happen This Sunday, June 23rd

 

Marvin Knight

By MONIQUE STAMPS

Sentinel Staff Writer

        The 509 Committee, led by Commissioner Gwen Myers, is asking the community to come together once again to celebrate and host a Unity in the Community Event on June 23, 2024.

    The last event was held on December 10, 2023, at Perry Harvey Park and was tremendously successful, with hundreds of attendees.

    This year, the event will be held at Al Barnes Park, 2902 N. 32nd Street, from 1 PM until 5PM. The event will be alcohol-free to be more welcoming to families.

   “I am urging the community to come together again, and work with us to uplift our families and youth. We value our youth and will provide opportunities for them, while rewarding them with community service hours. The 509 Committee is all in when it comes to our youth and helping them to become future leaders,” says Commissioner Myers.

    “We are focused on our youth so that they have alternative ways to spend their time and have good experiences in school and life. We have to make sure that they are getting their diplomas as well.”

    To help celebrate and encourage young people to attend the event, every middle school or high school student that is 18 or younger will receive 20 community service hours, and a free meal ticket for food at the event, up to a limit of 250.

    Panels on gun violence, diplomas vs. certificates of completion, and mental health will also be held.

    The unity event will have entertainment by Motown Imitators Plus, and there will be games, face-painting, community resources, vendors, and fancy cars and slingshots.

    All children attending will have a chance to win a brand-new bicycle. There will be 20 bicycles available for the giveaway.

     Event coordinator and community leader, Marvin Knight, is getting everybody ready for the huge event, “This will be a 1st class happening for our community. Great food, entertainment, and clean family fun come together.

   “We will of course, have gun violence education and other things for our kids. Our last gathering was momentous. We want to keep that going. There will be more unity events in the near future.”

    Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister is a huge supporter of the Unity in the Community events.

     “At the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, we believe in empowering our youth.”

    “We also invest in partnerships with local leaders like County Commissioner Gwen Myers to deepen our roots in the community. This event provides a valuable opportunity for our team to connect with families in a safe and fun environment. We’re proud to be a part of building a brighter future for Hillsborough County’s youth. An important part of this effort is the work of our Black Community Relations Committee, who are dedicated to outreach and positive engagement within the Black community.”

      The goal is emphasizing the youth as a group to be uplifted, the 509 Committee has arranged for all middle school and high school students to receive 10 community service hours, and an $8 meal ticket for food at the event.

      “We will also have raffles, food trucks, and of course, Shawn Brown Entertainment. We also have people to advise young people on careers, and mental health specialists to provide guidance in that area,” explained Knight.

     Guidance will also be provided by pastors on an hourly basis. There will be games, face-painting, community resources, vendors, and fancy cars and slingshots.

   Knight says, “Bring the family and bring your friends. Carpool if you have to. Bring your neighbors out too. Bring everybody. You will have a good time and help to build up our community.”

    For more information, please contact Marvin Knight at 813-453-5690.

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Too Smooth’s 1st Annual Juneteenth Divine 9 Comedy Jam Set For June 22nd

Too Smooth’s 1st Annual Juneteenth Divine 9 Comedy Jam Set For June 22nd

Too Smooth

 

      The excitement continues as we present the outstanding fraternity comedians set to perform at the TOO SMOOTH 1st Annual Juneteenth Divine 9 Comedy Jam on Saturday, June 22, 2024. Plan to attend the event at Chamberlain High School, 9401 North Blvd., in Tampa, Florida, for an evening of side-splitting laughter, community spirit, and cultural celebration featuring comedians from the Divine 9 fraternal organizations.

     The event will feature the comedic talents of four phenomenal men representing their respective fraternities:

     Braddy Bobb – Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated

     Hailing from the illustrious Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Braddy Bobb is known for his sharp wit and infectious energy. His comedy transcends boundaries, bringing a unique perspective that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. With a knack for turning everyday situations into comedic gold, Braddy Bobb is sure to leave the crowd in stitches.

     Meech Dog – Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated

      Representing the dynamic Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, Meech Dog brings a bold and unapologetic style to the stage. His humor tackles social issues with a clever twist, providing both laughs and thought-provoking commentary. Meech Dog’s powerful presence and relatable humor make him a must-see act at this year’s Juneteenth Comedy Jam.

     Eric Kimbrough – Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated

    From the esteemed Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, Eric Kimbrough offers a refreshing and authentic comedic experience. His storytelling prowess and quick wit have earned him a loyal following. Eric Kimbrough’s ability to connect with his audience on a personal level ensures an evening of laughter and joy, celebrating the spirit of Juneteenth.

     Demond Cherry – Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated

     Representing Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, Demond Cherry is known for his quick wit and engaging storytelling. His humor is relatable and often draws from his personal experiences, making his performances both entertaining and heartfelt. Demond’snatural charisma and ability to find humor in everyday situations make him a standout act, guaranteed to bring laughter and joy to the audience.

Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated

     We are excited to announce that Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated, will also be represented at the Juneteenth Comedy Jam. Stay tuned as we reveal the name of their featured comedian.

        The Juneteenth Divine 9 Comedy Jam is more than just a comedy show; it’s a celebration of culture, unity, and community. This event provides an opportunity for members of the Divine 9 and the broader community to come together, share in laughter, and honor the significance of Juneteenth.

      Doors open at 6:00 PM, show starts at 7:00 PM

      Tickets are available now, with special group discounts for parties of 20 or more. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening of comedy and celebration. Secure your tickets today and join us for a night that promises to be filled with laughter, camaraderie, and cultural pride.

      For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Eventbrite (www.eventbrite.com) or contact TOO SMOOTH directly at 813-244-7474.

 

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