Libby Hopkins

“I introduced her to a movie that was released in 1982 called The Last Unicorn , which I had loved as a teen,” Arlene said. “Being the reader that she is, she immediately found the book and read it.

This past June, the 2025-26 president of the Rotary Club of Brandon, Liz Brewer, installed the club's new incoming 2026-27 president, Ryan Reed, during a special gathering surrounded by the dedicated members who make up the heart of the Rotary Club of Brandon. The installation marked an important moment of transition for the club, honoring Brewer's year of service while welcoming Reed into a leadership role that will help guide the organization's continued commitment to service, fellowship and community impact.

The Rotary Club of Brandon was proud to present $160,000 in charitable grants to its local nonprofit partners on June 16 during its weekly meeting, marking a meaningful investment in organizations that serve families, youth, veterans, seniors and individuals in need throughout the Brandon community. The grants reflected the club's ongoing commitment to service above self and its dedication to strengthening the programs and resources that make a lasting difference close to home.

Sherlyn Laurelli was born and raised in Plant City. She spent the majority of her professional life working as a teacher, then as a school counselor in Hillsborough County.

Southshore Charter Academy is a school deeply committed to student success and character development. What sets the school apart is its focus on educating the whole child through strong academics, meaningful relationships and a culture that emphasizes leadership, responsibility and personal growth.

Tom Quigley is the co-owner of FishHawk's newest addition, Chill Cawfee & Quigs Kava Lounge, along with his wife, Lisa, and their son, Hunter. The popular coffee — or ‘cawfee,' as the family likes to say — shop first opened in 2020 with a simple goal: to create a warm, comfortable place where people could gather, relax and feel at home.

Wearing many hats comes easily to Brandon resident Rebecca McDonagh. She is a mom with two teenagers and a rescue dog, Foxy. She has been teaching for 18 years with Hillsborough County Schools and loves to travel, but it's what she does in her off time that has made her a social media influencer. On Instagram, she is @mathwithmissmcd, and her reels are hysterical.

Dugg Smith of Dover is originally from Columbus, Ohio, and his lifelong love of chess began with a simple challenge from a friend. After losing a match, Smith w

The GFWC Sun City Center Woman's Club will host an afternoon of fun, fellowship and live music by worldwide entertainer Eirinn Abu. The concert is on Friday, October 30, from 4-5:30 p.m. at the Sun City Center Community Hall, located at 1910 S. Pebble Blvd. in Sun City Center. Doors open at 3 p.m., so guests can arrive early to browse the silent auction, visit sponsor tables and enjoy dessert before the performance. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own beverages and snacks while they settle in for an uplifting musical program.

Nature crafts, woodworking, upcycling, outdoor engineering and games from around the world are among the activities offered by local creative instructor Christopher Boadu through his Outdoor Enrichment Program, which he hopes to bring to local schools, homeschool groups and community organizations.