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Valrico
17 C E L E B R A T I N G
January 2019 1 7
Y E A R S
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P U B L I S H I N G
Explore Medard Park And Go Hiking With A Viking With Wyrd Bros. Productions
Staff Report
Bluffs Trail. On the journey, the Viking guides teach hikers about their lifestyle, skills and crafts, weapons and their appreciation and dependence on
Go Hiking with a Viking as they descend on Medard Park in Plant City. There are four dates in January and February to choose from and join in the fun.
nature. The length of the hike is 1.5 miles. Each event begins at 9 a.m. Hiking with a Viking is held in conjunction with Hillsborough County’s Hiking Spree, which encourages people to exercise, explore the outdoors and experience nature through the County’s parks and preserves. This year’s trail list features 25 trails at 19 locations throughout the county. Complete at least eight before March 31, 2019 and earn a patch or medallion. Registration is required for Hiking with a Viking, and entry is limited to those who have registered for the Hiking Spree. The cost is $5 (cash only). You pay on the day of the event at the park. There is also a $2 park entry fee per vehicle for up to eight people. Medard Park is located at 6140 Turkey Creek Rd. in Plant City. For information, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/calendar/03-parksandrec/2019/celm/20190126-hiking-with-aviking.
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Colorfully dressed robbers with parrots on their shoulders descend on Hillsborough County every year, but Gasparilla is not the only entertainment option featuring invaders from the sea. Hillsborough County’s ‘Hiking with a Viking’ features park rangers and members from Wyrd Brothers Productions, a volunteer historical re-enactment group focusing on the Viking era. The group trains at Medard Park on the weekends and wanted to become involved in the hiking spree. So the inaugural event held on December 1 was set up, and it reached capacity almost as soon as it was announced. All of the attendees, including the kids, had a lot of fun. In fact, it was so popular that Wyrd Brothers Productions agreed to do it again, and the next four dates were set up: Saturday and Sunday, January 26 and 27, and February 9 and 10, all at Medard Park. According to Hillsborough County Park Ranger Chris Kiddy, “It is a really cool event that combines education and entertainment. The Vikings really depended on nature.” Together, the rangers and costumed marauders lead hikers through Edward Medard Conservation Park’s Singing
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Volume 16, Issue 1 Ph: 657-2418 P O S I T I V E
C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
Fraternal Order Of Eagles Hosts Annual Fundraiser For Underprivileged Children
By Nick Nahas
For 20 years, international non-profit members of the local organization uniting Fraternal Order of fraternally in the spirit Eagles, Aerie 3566, of liberty, truth, justice have hosted the and equality to make Boone’s Kids Annual human life more desirChristmas Party at able by lessening its Lopez Elementary ills and promoting School, giving underpeace, prosperity, privileged children gladness and hope. shoes and other gifts. The organization was This year, the created in 1898. event was held on Stepka asks local December 18. Jim businesses to be Boone started this sponsors to help raise fundraiser in 1998, but money for the gifts had to move to Photos Courtesy of Dennis Stepka and event. Sponsors Michigan several years Dennis Stepka dressed as Santa with include Odiorne 20 underprivileged kids. ago due to health Insurance Agency, issues. Fellow Fraternal Order of Eagles Hungry Howie’s, Terry Fink State Farm member Dennis Stepka promised his and Bubba Que’s. Stepka and his friend friend eight years ago that he would conCarol Hall are the main people that put tinue the tradition. the event together. Guidance counselor Stepka has dressed up as Santa Lisa Hall also plays a big part in the Claus for the event every year since he event. “The most rewarding aspect is took over, spreading Christmas cheer to seeing the excitement and the appreciathe 15 to 20 underprivileged children that tion of the children for what they have are chosen with the help of the school received,” said Stepka. guidance counselor. The children were 5 For more information, please visit and 6 years old. These children are chowww.foe3566.org. sen to receive gifts, visit with Santa and have lunch. They receive two pairs of shoes, 12 pairs of socks, pajamas, two outfits, jackets, hats, blankets, a razor scooter and one toy. The girls also get a doll and the boys get a remote control car. “Most of the children don’t want a lot of toys, they just want something to play 28 with, and most of them want clothes,” said Stepka. He said that the kids are FLORIDA STATE FAIR .........................PG 3 very appreciative. Last year, Stepka noticed a little boy CHALKLINES....................................PG 10 that did not open his bag full of gifts and ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 17 never even looked in the bag. Stepka asked the boy why. The boy said that his SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 18 brother at home was not going to get any EYE ON BUSINESS....................PGS 21‐22 gifts, so he wanted to save them for him. According to Stepka, he has been a YEAR IN REVIEW......................PGS 23‐31 part of the Fraternal Order of Eagles for 28 years. READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE The Fraternal Order of Eagles is an www.ospreyobserver.com
2 for $8
Photo courtesy of Douglas DeFelice
Owl’s Nest Sanctuary is a state and federally licensed 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that works with places like Busch Gardens and SeaWorld to provide wildlife with professional aid, and it is 100 percent volunteer run. With over 90 volunteers and six counties to cover, it has much support but is always seeking more assistance.
Visit www.owlsnestsanctuaryforwildlife.com See article on page 8.
Medium Smoothies or Love It Ice Cream Expires 2/14/19
3426 Lithia Pinecrest Rd • Valrico, FL 33596 (813) 681-2223 (located behind Chili’s)
Page 2
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 1
January 2019
Page 3
Valrico Edition
Thrilling Rides, Class Country Music And Fun Fair Food Tops List For 2018 State Fair
Best-Selling Author Of The Five Love Languages™ To Speak At Bay Life Church
The year to visit the was 1904 when exhibits including the State Fair’s the Florida roots took hold. Agriculture Hall That first Fair’s of Fame & Ag attractions were Showcase, simple and it Creative Living was held in a Competitions in single building the Florida on a 27-acre Center, Florida plot adjoining Cattle Ranching the Henry B. Museum, Florida Plant’s Tampa Fish & Wildlife Bring your friends and family and enjoy all the Bay Hotel, Florida State Fair has to offer from February 7-18. Conservation where the Commission and University of Tampa stands today. It offiHillsborough County Public Schools cially became the Florida State Fair in Showcase. There are many more to 1915 and now, 115 years after it all explore. began, it is still going strong. Bring your kids or grandkids to The 2019 Fair will be open for 11 Cracker Country, a rural outdoor days from February 7-18. Florida living history museum where In addition to thrilling rides on the you feel like you have become part of Midway, it would not be the Florida State the past. Immerse yourself in the life Fair without many educational and enterof a 19th century Florida pioneer. taining attractions and performers. Mildred W. and Doyle E. Carlton, Jr. Where, for the price of a movie ticket, you Cracker Country is Tampa’s only outcan see a sea lion, a spectacular Big Top door living history museum. It is open Circus, cheer on your favorite porker at during Fair hours and is a great place the pig races, feed a giraffe from your to create some memories. own hand or take a ride in N3079G, the Hillsborough County’s Student Day original Batcopter from the Batman TV at the Fair will be on Friday, February series and the original Batman movie. 8. Students enter free with student Captain Eugene Nock, A.T.P. tickets distributed by their school. acquired this world-famous helicopter and Students must be accompanied by an has meticulously restored N3079G to a adult, age 21 or older, after 6 p.m. complete airworthy condition (not includThe Florida State Fairgrounds is ed in admission or armband prices). located at 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N in “We want both loyal patrons and Tampa. Gates open Monday through those who have not yet visited the Fair to Thursday at 10 a.m. Midway opens at join us in making memories that will last a 1 p .m. On Friday, Saturday, Sunday lifetime,” said Cheryl Flood, executive and President's Day, gates open at 9 director of the Florida State Fair Authority. a.m. and Midway opens at 10 a.m. The Fair is known for its latest fun Admission prices range from $11 food fare such as the Pizza Cone, for adults during the week to $13 on Redneck Burger and Bacon Ice Cream. weekends. Special pricing is available This year promises to be no exception. on certain days for seniors 55 and Music always takes center stage at over and for children. Children ages 5 the Fair. The Country Gold Tour will take and under are free. You can also purplace on Wednesday, February 13 at chase discounted tickets through 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. in The February 6 at participating Publix Entertainment Hall. General Admission Supermarkets in Tampa Bay. For inforBleacher Seating is free, but there will be mation on ticket and armband prices, limited VIP Floor Seating for $20. On visit www.floridastatefair.com. Saturday, February 9, you can enjoy a Cannot get enough of the Fair? concert with James Hill, an award-winNow you can purchase a Fair Meganing ukulele player and a songwriter. His 12 Day Pass for $70. This buys you music has roots in Folk, Rock and unlimited rides and admission. Americana and he will take the stage Call the Fair Box Office at 740from 8-10 p.m. The cost is $20 in 4640 to order your MegaPass, which advance and $25 on the day of the show. is only available for purchase through Concert tickets do not include gate January 31. admission. For a complete listing of events, While visiting the Fair, do not forget visit www.floridastatefair.com.
After the hustle Chapman and know that if and bustle of the holicouples apply the informadays, could you and tion he gives, it will help to your spouse use a build their marriages.” date night? If so, join Couples will be preNew York Times bestsented with valuable tips selling author Dr. Gary on identifying and underChapman on Monday, standing their ‘love lanFebruary 11 from 7-9 guages’ as well as their p.m. at Bay Life partner’s language. Church in Brandon. Simply put, love lanThe author of The guages are the way Five Love someone communicates Languages™ will be their love, so when couspeaking on relationples learn how they ships for a special show and receive love, it date night. often drastically improves Since 1995, The their communication and Five Love connection. Dr. Gary Chapman is the author of Languages™ has The event is not limthe best-selling series, The Five Love ited to married couples. sold more than 11 Languages™. He also presents this million copies and Couples who are relationship advice at seminars around the world. helped thousands of engaged or dating can couples build a better marriage with prac- significantly benefit from the seminar. Dr. tical and biblically sound advice. Dr. Chapman will be selling his books on site Chapman, also a seasoned speaker, with up to 50 percent off. delivers an engaging evening filled with Pastor Eichem also added a personlaughter and learning. al invite and said, “Love to encourage The cost is $29 per couple with tickcouples to just take a chance and join us. ets available for purchase online at Take the time to invest in your marriage.” www.baylife.org/date. Tickets will also be Bay Life is also offering a four-week maravailable at the door. However, due to its riage class on Sunday afternoons followpopularity and possible sellout, Bay Life ing the date night event. Couples can suggests purchasing the tickets beforesign up at the date night event. hand. For information, visit Tom Eichem, the executive pastor at www.baylife.org/date or call 661-3696. Bay Life, commented on the event, “We Bay Life is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. are hoping it encourages and strengthens in Brandon. For further detail on author marriages in our community.” He continDr. Chapman, visit www.5lovelanued, “We are excited to host Dr. guages.com.
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Page 4
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 1
Beef’s, Taco Yolo, Comprehensive Derm & All American Dog Celebrate With Chamber
By Kathy L. Collins
Members of the Valrico FishHawk Chamber have been busy lately helping local businesses celebrate in the community.
Beef O’ Brady’s FishHawk Celebrates Re-Grand Opening
A ribbon cutting was held to celebrate the re-grand opening of the Beef O’Brady’s FishHawk. The restaurant is under new management and has been newly renovated. It offers a full service bar, dine in, to go and catering. It is located at 16773 FishHawk Blvd. in the Winn Dixie Plaza. Open seven days a week, it is open for lunch and dinner and has an updated menu. Hours are Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 Noon-10 p.m. For more information, call 651-0388. Visit www.beefobradys.com/fishhawk.
Your Dog Will Learn Correct Behavior At All American Dog Training Academy
Ribbon cutting for Beef O’Brady’s FishHawk’s Re-Grand Opening.
Ribbon cutting for Comprehensive Center for All American Dog Training Dermatology celebrating one year in business. Academy has trained over 50,000 your dog understand correct behavior as dogs and their owners in their homes, well as being corrected for wrong decineighborhoods and businesses since sions that may lead to bad behavior. It 1972. A ribbon cutting was recently held offers many training courses such by the Valrico FishHawk Chamber for the as Puppy Obedience Training, Obedience local-based All American Dog Training Training, Off Leash Obedience and Academy. The Academy is family owned Property Boundary Training of your home and operated. All American Dog Training owners Dave & Hope Springs offer a mili- and yard. For more information, call 685-6666, tary style of dog training which utilizes a email info@allamericandog.net or visit positive and negative approach to help www.allamericandog.net.
Taco YOLO celebrates its one year anniversary with a Valrico FishHawk Chamber ribbon cutting.
cosmetic services. She graduated with honors from the University of Florida, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Behavior and received her medical degree from the Georgia Campus of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Comprehensive Center for Dermatology is located at 5607 Skytop Dr. in Lithia. For more information, call 530-6511 or visit ccdermatology.com.
One Year Celebration For Taco YOLO Mexican Restaurant
Locally owned and operated, Taco YOLO Mexican Restaurant recently celebrates its one year anniversary with a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Valrico FishHawk Chamber. Tacos are what the restaurant is famous for, but it offers much more, including burritos, enchiladas, salad and bowls. The name YOLO comes from the acronym ‘You Only Live Once.’ Ribbon cutting for All American Dog Training Its motto is Live Once, Do It Academy. Deliciously. It offers hand-crafted, Comprehensive Center For one-of-a-kind recipes that are made fresh Dermatology Offers Full Range Of to order. While there, you can enjoy Dermatology Dang Quesadillas, which are flour tortillas A ribbon cutting was recently held for with your choice of protein and grilled Comprehensive Center for Dermatology, with YOLO Way toppings on the which celebrated one year in business. side. Tex-Mex specials are also offered. Dr. Jennifer Conde, D.O. offers a Taco YOLO is located at 5614 FishHawk state-of-the-art facility offering a full range Crossing Blvd. in Lithia. For more inforof general dermatology services for mation, call 906-9656 or visit adults and children as well aesthetic and TacoYolo.com.
January 2019
Page 5
Valrico Edition
WE INVITE YOU...
TO HAVE A UNIQUE LEGAL EXPERIENCE! Community Free Food Giveaway
Saturday, January 19; 10 a.m. Covenant Family Church 6321 US Hwy 301 S in Riverview Martin Luther King Day of Service Call Pastor Dr Reba Haley at 713-3996 for information.
Master Gardener Library Program: Growing Tomatoes
Wednesday, February 6; 6:30-8 p.m. Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico Presentation covers history and care of tomatoes, common pests and diseases from Master Gardener Harriet Gord-Noghani. Please bring a plant or other gardening item for a fun Plant Swap. Email Richard@seedroff.com or call 303-638-3917 for more info.
Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Tuesday, January 15; Thursday, February 7 and Tuesday, February 19; Tuesday, March 5 and Thursday, March 21 at 5:45 p.m. HCC campus of The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking your Social Security benefits; perfect for ages 58-67. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave a message after 4:30 p.m.
• Trust & Wills • Probate/Guardianship • Elder Law • Business Formation • Contracts & Real Estate • Asset Protection
Personal Attention 40 Years of Experience Conveniently Located
Monthly Car Show & Cannoli
First Saturday of the month; 2-5 p.m. Beve Cibo, 5622 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia Sponsored by First Light Home Care. 50/50 Raffle supports Relay for Life $1 of every Sparkling Berries Cocktail donated back to Relay.
Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting
Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m. Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza in Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President – 767-1569
Parkinson's Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon
Third Tuesday of the month; 6 p.m. Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.
Hawthorne Health & Rehab Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
Third Thursday of the month; 2 p.m. 851 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon For more information or to register, call 661-8998 - M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Congregation Beth Shalom
Shabbat Services – Fridays; 7 p.m. 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. All welcome. Call 681-6547.
Master Gardener Plant Clinic
Tuesday, February 5; 6:30 p.m. Riverview Library, 10509 Riverview Dr. Seed Saving will be presented. Call 273-3652 for more information.
Calling All Marines, FMF Corpsmen And FMF Chaplains
First Tuesday of the month; 7 p.m. Alafia American Legion Post #148, 7240 US Hwy. 301 in Riverview. The Sgt. Walter P. Ryan Detachment of the Marine Corps League is looking for new members. All Marines welcome. Other military branch members accepted too. Email mclsgtryan@gmail.com or call Ron Essick at 503-0390.
VFW Riverview Post 8108 Events
7504 Riverview Dr.; 671-9845 Every Sunday; 9 a.m.-12 Noon - All You Can Eat Breakfast Every Monday; 7 p.m. – Bingo Night
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Page 6
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
ial c o S y o j n E & o c n u B , g n Danci re… Mo anti, lle Coles by Miche Compiled erver.com ospreyobs michelle@
You Are Invited For Social Dancing
Plant City Social Dance will hold a dance on Saturday, January 19 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade Blvd. in Plant City. This dance will be social dancing on a 3,000 sq. ft. floating wood floor. Dance to the music by DJ Ken Miller. Social dancing includes slow dances, waltzes, line dances, cha-cha and rumbas, two-step and country slow, swing and free style. The cost is $6 a person. No alcohol is to be brought on property. Water and cups are available. Please bring your own snacks and drinks. Visit www.strawberrysquaredancing.com.
Beth Shalom Partners With Special Operations Warrior Foundation For Red Carpet Gala
Congregation Beth Shalom of Brandon will hold its annual fundraiser at the Elks Lodge of Brandon on Saturday, February 2 at 5:30 p.m. Congregation Beth Shalom is honored to partner with the Special Operations Warrior Foundation (SOWF). The proceeds of the evening will be shared with SOWF to ensure full college funding to every surviving child of a special operator who loses their life in the line of duty. SOWF also provides immediate
11350 Bloomingdale financial assistance to hospitalAve. in Riverview. ized wounded, ill and injured Lunch is provided. service members so their famSeating is limited. ilies can be at their bedside. Please reserve a This year’s event, a Red seat by calling 413Carpet Gala ‘Hollywood 8900. Salute to Our Heroes’, features a cinema-themed tribWildlife ute to our military. The Presentation At evening will feature movie Brandon Senior trivia games, door prizes, free red carCenter pet photos, dancing, a delicious buffet On January 28 dinner and a silent auction. The highat 10:15 a.m., senlight of the evening will be a Live Art iors can enjoy a Auction that will feature Wildlife Presentation: museum/gallery-quality art as well as Attracting the right military and movie memorabilia. kinds of wildlife in Elks Lodge of Brandon is located your landscape. The at 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. in Coach Barbara Kessler was recognized for her 12 years of love and Brandon. Tickets cost $40 for adults, dedication to ‘Tennis For Fun’ athletes. Coach Barbara is pictured presentation is held with ‘Tennis For Fun’ athletes. by Lynn Barber from $10 for children aged 7-13 years and it UF/IFAS. is free for children 6 and under. Tickets from 10-11 a.m. to educate wartime It will take place at the Brandon may be purchased by calling 681-6547 veterans and their survivors about a Senior Center, located at 612 N. or visiting www.bethshalombenefit through the U.S. Department of Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Call 635brandon.org/. Veterans Affairs ‘Improved Pension with 8066 for more information. Aid and Attendance.’ This benefit can It’s Bunco Time help offset the cost of living in a retireEnjoy A Garden Tea Party Kappa Kappa Chapter of Kappa ment community for a wartime veteran Luncheon With Brandon Christian Delta Phi will be hosting a Bunco for or his/her surviving spouse. Veterans of Women’s Connection Children's Charities on Thursday, any branch of the armed services who A Garden Party Tea with Brandon January 31 at 6 p.m. at Center Place, served 90 consecutive days on active Christian Women's Connection 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. duty, including one day during a Luncheon celebration for Valentine’s The cost is $20 and includes light wartime period, may be eligible to Day on Monday, February 11 from 11 fare, snacks, refreshments and wine. receive up to $1,794 per month for a.m.-1 p.m. at Bell Shoals Baptist Enjoy the fun while benefitting local assisted living expenses if they served Church in the Special Event Center, Brandon charities. during World War II, the Korean War, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. The Tickets are available at Center the Vietnam Era or other more recent cost is $15 and first-time guests pay Place or at the door. For more informaconflicts (duration of service required $10. All ladies are welcome. No memtion, please call 967-3954. may vary). bership is required. This is a non Edwin Ortiz, Manager of The Bridges Retirement Community Hillsborough County Veterans Services, denominational event. Please join in for a fun hat competition and joy Hosts Veterans Assistance Seminar will provide information and answer and fellowship together. Bring your best The Bridges Retirement questions about this benefit. This free friend. Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for Community is hosting a veterans assisseminar will be held at The Bridges, a reservation. tance seminar on Thursday, January 17
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January 2019
Page 7
Valrico Edition
Valrico Teen Helps Church With Service Project To Build Playground
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Valrico teen Emily Warrington estiWarrington is looking for mates the cost of the some help to bring the project, which includes community of Wimauma new basketball hoops, together. mulch, picnic tables, a Warrington, a memfence and the playber of a local American ground equipment, at Heritage Girls (AHG) around $30,000. She Troop, is planning to has set up a Go Fund install a commercial Me page and is actively grade playground at fundraising throughout Balm Baptist Church as the community to help part of her Stars and reach her goal. Stripes award process “As part of this and is currently process and something Valrico resident Emily Warrington is raising funds to we are to learn, each fundraising to meet her install a playground area at $15,000 goal for the candidate is required to Balm Baptist Church in project. raise the funds for their Wimauma. “I’ve noticed that project by themselves, people have become so disconnected whether through donations or with each other lately and have wantfundraisers,” said Warrington. ed to do something about it,” said The Stars and Stripes award is Warrington. “I chose to do this project the highest achievement in the AHG to really bring the community of program, comparable to an Eagle Wimauma together.” Scout, and requires a project with at According to Warrington, who has least 100 hours of planning, fundraisbeen interested in community service ing and implementing. It also has to for more than five years, the pastor at have a long lasting effect on the comBalm Baptist Church in Wimauma has munity. AHG is a program for girls been looking for ways to build new ages 5-18 that focuses on growing friendships while growing the church skills, talents and integrity through the and helping the community. Christian faith. There are troops in “The church currently does not every state and 15 countries around have an outdoor play area for kids the world. and teenagers. So we decided to For more information on redo the current basketball court and Warrington’s project, email her at install a commercial grade playehwarrington@gmail.com or visit her ground,” said Warrington. “We felt Go Fund Me page at that this would be a great way to https://www.gofundme.com/cvzuuvreach Wimauma.” stars-and-stripes#.
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Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
Owl’s Nest Sanctuary For Wildlife Is The Go-To Animal Rehabilitator
By Taylor Wells
Due to the residential mentor. We go from growth that has taken there and I’m training place in the last 20 years, them,” said Porter. habitats for local wildlife Beyond protecting have been greatly reduced and conserving Florida and they have had to learn animals, Owl’s Nest to live among us. Sanctuary wants to For one reason or inspire others to care for another, people might find and appreciate wildlife. It local wildlife in danger. also wishes to “reduce Whether injured, human impact on sick or abanFlorida’s native wildlife doned at a young through rehabilitation, age, you might education, and teamnot know what to work.” This baby coyote, named do to help these animals. “The goal is to rehaAnaba, was found malnourished That is why Kris Porter bilitate and release,” with a broken left femur. After founded Owl’s Nest many months of care from Owl’s Porter added. “We have Nest Sanctuary and partners Sanctuary for Wildlife. an 86 percent success like Busch Gardens, she Owl’s Nest Sanctuary rate. Anything over 50 became strong, healthy and is a state and federally and you’re doing pretty ready for release. licensed 501(c)(3) nonwell.” profit organization that works with places “It’s my calling, I’ve done it forever. I’ll like Busch Gardens and SeaWorld to pro- do it until I can’t do it anymore,” Porter vide wildlife with professional aid, and it is said. 100 percent volunteer run. With over 90 For wildlife rescue help, call the volunteers and six counties to cover, it Sanctuary at 920-5495 or 598-5926. If no has much support but is always seeking one answers, leave a message with your more assistance. name, phone number and the animal’s “Owl’s Nest Sanctuary started four location. It does not help with pet rescues. years ago,” Porter said. “I’m a retired Due to the organization’s volunteerzoologist from Busch Gardens. I used to based structure, members work from their work as the animal lead in the nursery for own homes. The Rescue does not accept 11 years, and I raised my girls and really visitors. However, donations can be didn’t do any wildlife [rescuing] until one mailed to 12932 Royal George Ave., of my zookeeper friends prompted me to Odessa, FL 33556. start this.” To help the Sanctuary, you can “They can actually just go to our attend the organization’s events. Email Facebook site or website, and there’s a OwlsNestSanctuaryForWildlife@gmail.co volunteer form. They fill it out and it actum or visit https://owlsnestsanctuaryforally comes to me, and they’ll get an area wildlife.com/.
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Goodson Farms Strawberry Market In Balm Offers Delicious Strawberries And Other
By Kathy L. Collins
Goodson Farms and Strawberry Market sells its strawberry pizza by the slice. For a whole strawberry pizza, customers need to call ahead.
said, “The market is open for business now through March when the strawberry season ends.” Goodson added, “We are happy to provide a great place for families to come have a shortcake with us.” Goodson Farms was started in 1979 by Don and Janet Goodson. Don passed away in 2003 and Janet in 2011. Since then, their sons, Mike and Ricky along with Jessica have owned and operated the family business. Goodson Farms consists of approximately 1,500 acres, which stretches over areas of Southern Hillsborough County and Northern Manatee County. The current market location was opened in 2006. Prior to
Goodson Farms Strawberry Market, located at 12406 County Road 672 E in Balm, is now open for the 2019 Strawberry Season. A recent visit to the farm and market revealed a bustling, attractive, family-friendly market. At Goodson Farms Strawberry Market, you can do your weekly produce shopping and get a delicious treat to eat. There is plenty of outdoor seating available. The prize attraction, is of course, the delicious strawberries. In addition to the quarts and half flats of delicious, juicy and sweet Goodson Farms and Strawberry Market in strawberries which are picked fresh Balm sells some of the juiciest, most delicious and sweetest strawberries around the area. daily, the market offers other farm Do not miss your opportunity to try them fresh produce such as potatoes, before the season is over in March or early cauliflower, tomatoes and greens. April. They also offer different flavored that, produce and strawberries were syrups and jarred, pickled items such sold from a small roadside stand as okra. which was located at the intersection Prices are quite reasonable. Half of Balm Riverview Rd. and County flats of strawberries are just $12 and Road 672. quarts are $3.50. Goodson Farms and Strawberry However, the thing that brings Market is open Monday through people from all over is the café, Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The which offers sandwiches, drinks and market is open only seasonally until desserts. The desserts, all strawberStrawberry Season ends in March or ry based of course, include cake, early April. If you want to taste strawmilkshakes, strawberry pizza, strawberries when they are at their ripest, berry sundaes and strawberry shortmost delectably juicy state, then take cakes. On the day I visited, there a ride to Balm and see for yourself. were over 100 people in line for deliFor more information, please call cious treats. 634-7790 and like Goodson Farms Goodson Farms Strawberry Strawberry Market on Facebook. Market Manager Jessica Goodson
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Page 9
Valrico Edition
Hillsborough County Residents Who Want To Help In Crises Have A Way To Connect
By Brad Stager
partners with are local Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) of FEMA, which educate people about disaster readiness and provides training in areas such as first aid and rescue operations, as well as the federal agency’s Fire Corps, a collaboration between FEMA and the National Volunteer Fire Council supporting local fire and rescue departments. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) uses volunteers to support the local emergency-response medical community. William Twaite is Hillsborough County’s liaison with the CCC and he
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Bell Shoals Baptist Church mobilized more than 210 volunteers to assist with the cleanup efforts for Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria.
Winter in Florida may offer a respite from the hurricane season routine of days spent boarding up windows and clearing debris, but for the Hillsborough County Citizen Corps Council (CCC), every day is a day to prepare for a potential disaster. Underscoring that emphasis on readiness is a series of public meetings to acquaint Hillsborough County residents, businesses and organizations with the council, which is part of a nationwide initiative of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The federal agency is partnering with local governments and organizations as a way to support the work of emergency responders and help mitigate the effects of a natural or man-made disaster on a community. Attendees can find out about opportunities to volunteer with an organization partnering with the council that can use their knowledge and talents, or even provide training in emergency-handling skills. According to FEMA’s website, the idea is to promote a community’s self-sufficiency and provide basic support in a disaster until government aid arrives. Among the programs the council
The Hillsborough County Citizen Corps Council is holding a series of meetings at the Hillsborough County Public Safety Operations Complex to inform the public about volunteer opportunities.
encourages people to attend the meetings. “You can see what kinds of opportunities are available to learn and contribute.” Twaite adds that the council is interested in resources that local organizations, such as amateur radio clubs and neighborhood associations, might offer during an emergency. “The council facilitates all kinds of groups that want to come together to learn something and prepare for all kinds of disaster mitigation and recovery.” The meetings, including the next one on Wednesday, January 30 at 6:30 p.m., take place at the Hillsborough County Public Safety Operations Complex (PSOC) at 9450 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. For more information, call 2768245 or visit hillsboroughcounty.org.
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Page 10
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
Ms. Ines Kanarek
narek Ms. Ka ten
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Brandon High School Hosts Career Fair
By Kate Quesada
Teacher Of The Month
the event, and she hopes to coordinate an even larger job fair in the spring. “There are tons of employers hiring in the Tampa Bay Area and we want to keep the students here,” said Snively. “With this type of event, students are able to learn how their interests can be transformed into a career.”
a teacher? Why did you decide to become pleting medical school and com n, icia I trained to be a pediatr kids were born I decided to residency. However, when my for them. As they began their take some time off to be home and absolutely loved it. So, schooling, I was highly involved te school was not enough, I deciding 7 years of post gradua s in Education so I could went back to school for a Master impacting children with a teach kindergarten! Instead of chance to play an integral role once a year office visit, I had a in their formative years!
cher? What is a goal of yours as a tea e for learning lov a h blis esta to For each child and maximize their potential.
Warren Brooks, Workforce Connections Office;, Brandon HS Principal Jennifer Sparano; HCPS Board Member Melissa Snively, Dr. Nancee Sorenson, HCC Brandon Campus President; and HCPS Government Relations Representative Jason Pepe attended a career fair at Brandon High School.
prising about What would be something sur resting? inte find uld you that students wo jumped I've it! spir us uro I have an advent ded, and agli par , iled asa par f, clif ft. from a 60 intimist mo s challenged some of the world' dating roller coasters. your What is your favorite food from a? teri school cafe k I've ever Sweet potato fries! Don't thin left one on my plate….
Ms. Kan arek
has bee n a teac her for 9 years.
why? What is your favorite book and of Will Go". It is a fond memory You ces Pla the Dr. Seuss's "Oh hor study aut rite er and is one of my favo time spent reading with my fath books I share with my students.
you live by? Is there a quote or saying that of course): ss Seu r. (D s rite I have two favo can steer You have feet in your shoes, You You have brains in your head, ose. – Dr. Seuss yourself in any direction you cho re that you things you will know. The mo re mo the The more that you read, – Dr. Seuss learn, the more places you'll go! nged in the schools? What would you like to see cha dedicate to time and resources available to re I wish, as a society, we had mo early education.
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Brandon High School (BHS) found a new way to inspire their students at last year’s Great American Teach-In last month. The school collaborated with the Education and Workforce Connection Council of the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce to host a career fair offering information from a group of local employers. Businesses and organizations, including Hillsborough Community College, Tampa Electric, Rasmussen College, Empire Beauty School, Hillsborough County Public Schools Technical Colleges, Brandon Regional Hospital and the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, met with students throughout the event discussing possibilities for their futures after high school. “There is no greater asset to a school than the support of its community,” said BHS Principal Jennifer Sparano. “This career fair represents the opportunity for students to connect with our community businesses and network, so that they have post-secondary opportunities readily available where they live.” Hillsborough County School Board member Melissa Snively worked closely with the Chamber and BHS to develop
BHS junior Zack York attended the event with the hopes of finding out more about the possibility of a career in elementary education. “Today I learned that there are so many opportunities out there for employment and I should really take advantage of these opportunities because they can help me later in life,” said York. Tampa Electric brought out equipment and information about their journeyman lineman program, which is an apprenticeship where students are paid while learning the hands-on skills and taking the classes required to become professionals in the field. “We came to show students that there are other options out there for them besides college,” said Sam Nowakowski, Supervisor of Technical Training at TECO. Brandon High School is located at 1101 Victoria St. in Brandon and can be reached at 744-8120. For more information on the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Education and Workforce Council, visit www.brandonchmaber.com or call 689-1221.
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January 2019
Page 11
Valrico Edition
Celebrating 50 years, HCC Plans Women’s Leadership Seminar
NOMINATIONS NEEDED!
By Kate Quesada
It has been 50 “Ms Viamontes is a years since Hillsborough dynamic speaker with a Community College unique story to tell,” said (HCC) first opened its Sorenson. “An HCC alum doors and began eduand author of three books, cating the people of she came to the area as Tampa Bay. To celepart of the boat migration brate, each of the colfrom Cuba. She has held lege’s five campuses is many interesting positions holding an event open during her career and is to the community. On currently in discussions to March 22, the Brandon have a Hollywood movie Campus will host a made from one of her women’s leadership books.” seminar with workWomen at the event shops, mentorship will also be given the opportunities, a keynote opportunity to join a new speaker and panel disfemale mentorship procussions. Hillsborough Community College gram with students attend“We are so proud is hosting a women’s leadership ing the college. to have been an active seminar at its Brandon Campus According to on Friday, March 22. The event part of our community Sorenson, who has been is open to the public and for so long,” said HCC sponsorship opportunities are president of the campus available. Brandon Campus since 2015, the event has President Nancee Sorenson. “And we are more than one purpose. excited to use this opportunity to reach “We feel that it is very important to more women of all ages.” create a women’s leadership seminar that The event, titled Celebrating Action in is affordable and interesting,” she said. Leadership: Women Who Make a “We are also using the opportunity as a Difference, will be held at the Brandon fundraiser for scholarships for women to Campus Conference Center on Friday, attend HCC.” March 22 from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The date Fifty students will attend the seminar was chosen to coincide with Women’s on scholarships and there are 110 tickets History Month which takes place in available for the community to purchase. March. Tickets to the full-day seminar are $90 During the day, attendees will have and there is also an option to only attend the opportunity to choose between multithe Scholarship Lunch for $60. ple workshops, listen to panels and enjoy Sponsorship opportunities are also the Scholarship Luncheon with keynote available. speaker Betty Viamontes. Contact Sorenson at 253-7817.
Your favorite teacher could have their very own spotlight editorial in the Osprey Observer Community Newspaper! Complete the form below and email your nomination to: teacher@ospreyobserver.com
Teacher Name: School: Why should this teacher be Teacher of the Month?
Page 12
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 1
DayDreams Day Spa Makes Medical Aesthetics Shine With New Med Spa
Superior Residences Of Brandon Memory Care Makes Life Easier And Better For Senior Residents
device and discuss the Skincare has always issues you are having with been something everyone your skin. She then tailors wants. We want the healthia treatment plan to make est and as-close-to-perfect sure you get your desired skin. And we want quick proresults. cedures that offer the best Aside from the med results. In fact, research spa, DayDreams offers shows that medical aesthetmany other services. They ics is on the rise; reaching offer massages, waxing, nearly $17 billion by 2023. nail treatments, body and “During my pregnancy I had a lot of issues with skinDayDreams Day Spa’s Dr. facial treatments, tanning and more. The owners, care and I did a lot of Victoria Morin. husband and wife research. Aesthetics Benjamin and is where skincare is Nikiya Keller, took moving right now,” over the spa four Nikiya Herron Keller, years ago. The spa owner of was opened in DayDreams Day 1999 by an aesSpa, said. thetician who wantDayDreams Day ed to create a Spa knows how peaceful experiimportant skincare ence for every cusis, which is why it is tomer. opening its very own The Kellers med spa where you One of the treatment rooms patients can enjoy in peace. have tried their can get medical hardest to keep consultations, that same goal. Botox, chemical “You can peels and more. get a great And leading the service anymed spa will be where. We are medical aesthetiabout experician Doctor ences. You can Victoria Morin. bring your Originally mother or anyfrom Ontario, one who has Canada, Dr. done a great Morin started thing for you or with her own is tired and you practice in family Another treatment room patients can enjoy in want to give medicine. She peace. them a great and her husband day, this is the place to do it. We will moved to Florida in 2005 where he pracmake sure to give them positive experiticed Orthopedic Surgery and she stayed ences,” she said. “We have tranquility at home to raise their three children. She rooms, mimosas, snacks and fruits. It’s became interested in medical aesthetics not just about the service; it’s about relaxsearching for the best cosmetics and ing. It’s about taking a time to breathe skincare products. After living in Florida, and decompress.” she became even more focused on preBoth the Kellers and Dr. Morin also ventative-care. make sure that all the products are natu“In Florida, we are exposed to the ral and effective. They use brands such sun for a majority of the year. This can cause a whole host of issues, the least of as Environ, Pevonia and DefenAge. Each product has been tested by Dr. Morin herwhich are hyperpigmentation and discoloration,” she said on the DayDreams Day self to ensure they give her patients the most dramatic results. Spa website. “Given my longstanding DayDreams has two locations – one interest in the area, when the opportunity in Lakeland at 1463 Town Center Dr. and arose to partner with DayDreams, it only one in Brandon at 658 Oakfield Dr.– felt natural.” where the doctor will be working at both. People will be able to schedule a For more information, call 657-2992 or consultation with the doctor where she will do a skin analysis using a 3D imaging visit www.daydreamsdayspa.com/.
Superior Several improveResidences of ments have already Brandon Memory been made. The purCare and its senior chase of a new proresidents can look gram called It’s Never forward to living 2 Late ® (iN2L)—a enhancements in the system designed to near future thanks to assist older adults in SRI Management, the use of technology Changes at Superior Residences of LLC and changes in to enhance quality of Brandon Memory Care will make the lives of older adults experiencing memo- life through pictureownership. With Hry loss easier and more enriching. Bay Ministries, Inc., a based, touchscreen Texas-based non-profit organization, havinterfaces—has allowed further aid in sening taken over Super Residences of ior living. Brandon Memory Care in late June of The iN2L program helps residents 2018, it was decided that SRI participate more easily in multiple areas, Management would operate it and continsuch as sports, physical fitness, games ue being its management firm, a decision and puzzles, music therapy and many that is already showing much promise. others. Even residents further along in There is no change in its overall polihealth debilitation can interact with iN2L. cies with H-Bay Ministries’ new ownership Superior Residences has also pursince SRI Management continues manag- chased 18 drums from Drum Magic for ing, said Jill Andrew, Senior Sales and drum circles, increased the amount of staff Marketing Director of Superior Residences members and it is making structural of Brandon Memory Care. “But H-Bay improvements such as new flooring, furniMinistries has now enabled us to become ture, landscaping and upgrades to coma not-for-profit community,” she added. mon areas. Now it even has four certified As Superior Residences is now a dementia practitioners, which is unheard 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization with of for one building. There are also, of this new relationship, the facility has been course, future plans to enhance senior livable to make marked improvements for ing experiences. seniors’ living experiences. “By being a not-for-profit now, it has “We’re in the process of infusing capi- enabled us to better service those that tal dollars into the property as a result of may be challenged financially,” said the sale,” Andrew said. Andrew. “We’re for a broader population SRI Management seeks to do more now.” than just managing senior housing organiSuperior Residences of Brandon zations. Rather than simply providing Memory Care can be found at 1819 assisted living, SRI instead wants to make Providence Ridge Blvd. For information, true communities for residents where it call 308-0659 or visit https://superiorbrancan enrich their lives. don.com.
By Elisa Santana
By Taylor Wells
January 2019
Page 13
Valrico Edition
Local Financial Firm Offers Superior Financial Services To Community
By Libby Hopkins
Dan ing timely and Raulerson is a quality accountseventh generaing services that tion Floridian assist its clients who believes in the decision strongly in being making process. involved with his “The firm started community. “I in 1985 in Plant have served as City and has a State grown to 15 Representative people and Raulerson, Castillo & Company’s mission is to in the Florida serves become their clients' trusted advisor by helping them navigate through the increasingly complex House and I’ve Hillsborough financial environment. been the Mayor and Polk counof Plant City for two terms as well as ties,” Raulerson said. “We have offices in been a part of the Plant City Commission Plant City and Brandon. We purchased for five years,” Raulerson said. “I became the former Professional Accounting and an accountant due to my interest in busiConsulting Services from Anne Nymark ness and how it works as well as what in 2015 and are excited about serving makes a business successful and how the growing Brandon and Riverview people and numbers work together to areas.” achieve a goal. My parents suggested The firm has been committed to accounting as a good way to make a livserving their clients in tax, auditing and ing, and that has proved to be true.” accounting matters, but also in profitabiliRaulerson is a partner at Raulerson, ty enhancement and managerial issues Castillo & Company, which is a local such as budgeting and operations. “We financial firm with offices in Brandon and help the client balance work/lifestyle Plant City. issues,” Raulerson said. Irene Castillo joined the firm in 2005 The local community has been very as an intern from USF and became a good to the firm and has supported it for partner in 2014. “She grew up in Texas many years. “We are involved in local and Plant City,” Raulerson said. “She got chambers of commerce and charity into accounting because of the technical organizations such as the United Food challenge and the ability to use her Bank,” Raulerson said. expertise to assist businesses.” Visit www.rcwcpas.com or call the Raulerson, Castillo & Company’s Brandon office at 689-9297. The mission is to become their clients' trusted Brandon office is located at 329 Pauls advisor by helping them navigate through Dr. and the Plant City office is located at the increasingly complex financial envi1907 S. Alexander St. The office number ronment. It accomplishes this by providfor the Plant City office is 752-6604.
New Truly Greek In Bloomingdale Square Offers A Variety Of Tasty Food Items Diners seeking to add a new flavor onto their plates should visit Truly Greek in Brandon. The restaurant provides authentic Greek dishes by utilizing the best market quality food products. With 35 years of Ismail Abu (center) experience in the with son Faisal Abu (l) restaurant indusand daughter try and a bacheAmal Abu (r). lor’s degree in Hotel Management, Truly Greek’s owner, Ismail Abu, gives Brandon a taste of fresh ingredients in every meal that gets created. The original location of Truly Greek opened in 2015 in Pasco County. Abu and his family reside in the Brandon area and the opportunity came at a good time for the restaurant, which opened in December, to become established. In addition, the 2,000 sq. ft. restaurant can seat 60 guests comfortably. Abu mentions what makes Truly Greek unique. “As a family business, we work from our heart and everything here is homemade,” Abu said. The menu at Truly Greek offers various food options for those who might be vegetarian, vegan and more. For example, people can order Truly Greek’s homemade signature soup, which comes in two flavors such as Healthy Chicken Ginger Noodle or Lentil soup. These
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soups cost $4.99 and are paired with an herb pita. Another item that individuals order most often would be the gyros. Individuals can get a gyro with a choice of lamb, beef or chicken in it for $7.99. It also provides desserts, appetizers and more. Furthermore, the types of services Truly Greek offers would be takeout, delivery through Uber Eats within a five mile radius and catering with delivery, too. To save money, individuals can join the Rewards Program at Truly Greek. This program will give a free meal on the eleventh visit. Before reaching that point, it does offer a couple of other perks as well in the program. “Overall, I am excited to be here and hopefully this place will grow,” Abu said. For information, visit www.facebook.com/Truly-Greek720150305010659/. It is located at 887 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. Open Monday through Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Call 324-7933.
813.971.2000 www.DrCastor.com
Page 14
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
Small Businesses Are Finding Success With SBA Backed Loans
Staff Report
Michael Archer “As a business understands the development strategist, financial needs of my commitment is to the local and be a participant in the regional small busimassive growth, develnesses. opment, and exciteHe said, ment the Tampa Bay “When businesses Region is experiencing. are ready to start, I love being part of the expand or acquire Tampa Bay communianother existing ty,” said Archer. business, the lending process is the critical step they must take that facili- Michael Archer is an experienced business development tates that. Without officer with GBC Business the lending process Capital. in place, small businesses would be forced to self-fund using Archer believes in customer service. cash or savings.” “Good service is hard to come by. In a An SBA (Small Business time where most consumers believe good Administration) backed loan offers a small customer service is dead, I still believe in business access to capital for start-up or the personal touch. It is not lost on me for expansion. The loan proceeds can be that I am in the services industry. I am used for Working Capital, Furniture and here to serve these small businesses with Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment, Real their lending needs. I make it a point to Estate and Business Acquisition. The return phone calls and emails promptly. terms are more flexible with regards to liq- My job is to shepherd the loan from start uidity, length of time in business and over- to finish, and that involves keeping the all profitability. business owner aware of the progress Archer is an experienced business each step of the way.” development officer with GBC Business Archer resides in Valrico with his wife Capital, whose headquarters is based in Aimee and his two sons, Elijah and TJ. Atlanta, Georgia. Archer has a demonHe is also an active Kiwanian with strated history of working in the banking Kiwanis of Riverview. industry, and brings 15 years of experiTalk to Archer and see what he can ence. He specializes in loans for start-up do for you and your growing business. He businesses, expansions, franchises, new can be reached at his office at 770-635locations, business acquisitions and com- 2803, cell 357-4472, or email at mercial real estate lending. marcher@geobanking.com.
New HART Bus Travels From Campo YMCA To Airport For $2 Each Way
By Nick Nahas
Photos courtesy of Michelle Colesanti
Bus driver Willie Thomais drives the 60LX Route. The bus ride to Tampa Airport costs $2 each way.
The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) has made some changes to their routes as of Sunday, December 2, 2018. Route 60LX (out of the Brandon Mall) and Route 360LX were rerouted, and now, Route 60LX picks up at the local Campo YMCA on Culbreath Rd., and Route 360LX now serves J. C. Handly Park. Bus Route 60LX makes a pit stop at the Marion Transportation Center in downtown Tampa and then goes to Tampa International Airport. It leaves every hour in both directions and takes approximately one hour and 10
minutes. The ride only costs $2 each way. The buses are handicap accessible. Route 60LX will operate along US 301 to Bloomingdale Ave., stopping at Culbreath Rd., providing the Valrico area with all-day limited-stop service to Tampa International Airport and the rest of the HART service network. Route 360LX will operate along Lumsden Rd. before turning on Kings Ave. (entering the J.C. Handly Park-nRide) and looping back on Bloomingdale and finally Providence Rd. According to its website, HART made changes to focus on building ridership and improving service quality. HART has implemented minor service changes with additional service adjustments to be performed over the next year. Via the HART website, the authority invites public feedback year-round about its services and makes adjustments three times a year. These modifications continue efforts to improve service frequency that have resulted in ridership gains when implemented on other routes. New route schedules are available at goHart.org, onboard buses, HART Customer Service Centers, or by mail. For more information, call the HART info Line at 254-4278 or email HART at the website listed above.
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Stargazing With Local Astronomers
Enjoy a closer look at the night sky and learn more about our nearest celestial neighbors on Wednesday, January 16 at 7 p.m. at the Brandon Regional Library. Local astronomers will set up telescopes in the parking lot of the library so you can observe craters on the moon, as well as distant stars and constellations. Knowledgeable astronomy enthusiasts will answer questions and explain what can be seen through the telescope as well as with the naked eye. This event is for all ages and is funded by the Friends of the Brandon Regional Library. It is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon.
Light breakfast and schnapps will be served. Page Turners On Monday, January 21 at 6 p.m., join in the discussion and light dinner as Beneath A Scarlet Sky, by Mark Sullivan is discussed. This novel is a fictionalized account of a true story of a courageous man’s experiences as he helps Jews escape the Nazi threat in Italy. Congregation Beth Shalom is located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Call 6816547 for more information.
look online to see if their lost cat has been taken to the shelter. The ADOPT online kennel system can be accessed by desktop computer or mobile devices at
Hillsborough’s New Online System Makes Pet Adoption Simpler
‘Tennis For Fun’ Brandon Athletes Win Gold At Hilton Head Island
The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center recently unveiled its online kennel, a new system that substantially increases the amount of information available to prospective adopters. The online system, called ADOPT, features individualized pet profiles, real-time updates on which dogs and cats are available for adoption, and detailed search options for those looking for spe-
Upcoming Events At Congregation Beth Shalom
Simcha – On Sunday, January 27 from 3-4:30 p.m., join Congregation Beth Shalom as Rabbi Bryan begins a new lifelong learning program inspired by Arthur Green’s, Judaism’s 10 Best Ideas. In this session explore the first of Judaism's best ideas; simcha/joy. This course is perfect for all who are interested in learning more about the reliL-R: Ryan and Bryan Fisher recently received gold medals at the 2018 Special Olympics gion. Afterwards the group will go to an North America tennis championship. area restaurant for Dinner with the Tribe. cific characteristics in a pet such as Bible and Bagels – Join in for a disbreed, sex, or age. A resident can now filcussion of the week’s Parsha with Rabbi ter search results to find, for example, Bryan on Saturday, January 19 at 10 a.m. only female dogs less than 2 years old, or
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Page 15
Valrico Edition
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‘Tennis For Fun’ Athletes, Ryan and Bryan Fisher competed last October in the
2018 Special Olympics North America tennis championship at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. There were 150 special Olympic athletes and 28 unified partners from 11 states competing. Tennis competition was offered in skills, singles, doubles and unified doubles. Bryan and Ryan who have trained at ‘Tennis For Fun’ since 2002, competed in the highest level of singles and won all of their matches receiving gold medals. Clinics are held at Brandon Sports And Aquatic Center (BSAC), which has donated court time for the special needs group since 2001. The program is run entirely by volunteers. Carter Nettina, a Newsome High School student, has been coaching the Fisher twins for the past four years. Volunteers are needed. No tennis experience needed; just the desire to help others and to have fun. The clinics are held every Friday afternoon from November through May.
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Over 100 athletes participate in the program. The clinics are from 1:30- 3 p.m., 3-4 p.m., 4-5 p.m. and 5-6 p.m. Visit tennisforfun.org for more information or call Judy at 417-3751.
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Farm Fresh Strawberries To Support Randall Middle School PTSA
The Randall Middle School PTSA has partnered with Wish Farms, a 4th generation familyowned and operated farm based in Plant City to bring Randall Hawk friends and families fresh local grown strawberries. Start celebrating strawberry season by ordering a carton (4 quarts) of peak-ofthe-season strawberries for $20, handpicked and delivered straight from the farm to Randall Middle School the same day! The sale will take place January 822 and delivery is scheduled for midFebruary when the strawberries are at the height of their season. The community is also invited to get same-day picked strawberries by ordering via the front office in Randall Middle School. Cash or check payment is required at signup. Please make checks payable to Randall Middle School PTSA. Proceeds will benefit our local farmers and programs, services and teacher grants for the students and teachers at Randall. Randall Middle School is located at 16510 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. For more information contact Randall Middle School at 740-3900 or call or text Colleen Horan-Green, PTSA Vice President via 516-695-3647.
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Page 16
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
Are You Sick And Tired Of Being Sick And Tired? Correction Starts At The Core
By Dr. Stephen Steller
Did you know that 93 should you add drugs or million Americans have remove the blockage to heart disease? If you the body? Remove the need to take blood presinterference to your sure medication, you health. have heart disease. How does your MERSA is an antibiotic nerve system become resistant bacteria killing blocked? Misalignments people, and the only reaof the spine called subson it is around is luxations cause damage because Americans take to your nerves. We do way too many antibiotics. this to ourselves by Type 2 Diabetes is comdaily living and minor pletely avoidable and trauma. Think about all reversible. Are you sick Dr. Stephen Steller is at Spinal of the little things you Correction Centers at 11964 and tired of being sick have done to yourself Boyette Rd. in Riverview. and tired? You should over your lifetime. be. We bend wrong, sit Here is the truth wrong, lift wrong, about how your body play sports, car accifunctions and how dents, falls and pharmaceutical commore. Pinched panies hope you nerves to any organ always stay sick. Health is very simple. or your immune system will cause poor Your brain and spinal cord control every function and poor health in your body. single function in your body every secThe true definition of health is funcond of every day and it happens no tioning and healing at 100%. What conother way. When signals from your trols all functioning and healing? It is brain are blocked to your organs and your brain and central nervous system. immune system, they start to malfuncNothing else can do it. So correcting tion. your core health and removing the misSo what is the medical answer to alignments is extremely important. How all health problems? Do drugs remove do you do this? You get your kids and blocked nerve function? No! Drugs yourself checked for nerve interference actually slow down healing. We all (subluxation) by a chiropractor. know that big drug companies want you To get checked, give Spinal to take drugs, continue to be unhealthy Correction Centers a call to schedule and believe that there is no other way an appointment at 540-7270. It is locatto regain your healing and function. ed at 11964 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. So if you have a health issue, Visit www.spinalcorrectioncenters.com.
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January 2019
Valrico Edition
Page 17
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Life Size Sculptures Return To Plant City Downtown Plant City is locally.” once again adorned with There are 10 sculptures, beautiful sculptures. There and they can be found are 10 life size sculptures throughout downtown includstrategically placed throughing ‘Yum Yum’ at the Bruton out the city. It is not only Memorial Library, ‘At Long great fun to seek out each Last’ at the North Entrance of one, but it is a chance to City Hall, and ‘Chance explore this charming city. Meeting’ located at the corThe J. Seward Johnson ner of Collins St. and Sculptures are created by Reynolds St. You can also There are 10 J. Seward artist, J. Seward Johnson. see ‘Forever Marilyn’ in Mc Johnson Sculptures placed Call Park at the Collins St. He creates trompe l’oeil about historic downtown painted bronze statues entrance and ‘Waiting’ at Plant City, including ‘Yum Yum,’ ‘Lunch Break,’ and which are castings of living the Palmer St. entrance of ‘Making A Point.’ Check them McCall Park. At the people, depicting them out and explore the city. engaged in day to day Willaford Railroad activities. The sculptures are brought to Museum, you can see ‘Lunch Break’ and Plant City thanks to a partnership ’Making A Point’ on J. Arden Mays Blvd. between the Arts Council of Plant City, right next to Krazy Kup Café. ‘Building the city of Plant City and Unity in the Better Neighbors’ can be found at the Community. Other sponsors include the Plant City Mural Park and ‘Hot Weather’ Plant City Photo Archives, Stine can be seen at the Plant City Photo Construction and Cameron Financial Archives. Management. The sculptures will be on display now Marsha Passmore, President of the through Friday, March 15. The Arts Arts Council of Plant City said, “We feel Council of Plant City is in the process of that it is an opportunity and charge for the planning an event in February which will organization to bring public art to the resi- highlight the sculptures and give visitors dents as well as to our visitors that come an exciting activity that will allow them to to our beautiful historic downtown area.” explore and find each sculpture. Passmore added, “The J. Seward For more information on events Johnson sculptures are known worldplanned by the Arts Council of Plant City, wide, and it is a privilege to display them please follow them on Facebook.
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LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED
Hal Mooney Of Valrico Offers Students A Different Approach To Playing The Guitar
Have you ever wantshow their family and friends ed to learn to play the that they can play a song,” guitar but thought there added Mooney. was no way I can do that Mooney gets his stuat my age? Has your dents to take in important child ever expressed an information, like learning to interest in learning how to read music, by learning to play an instrument, but play songs they like. you were worried that Janet Costin of Valrico rigid music lessons would has been taking guitar lesnot work? If the answer is sons from Mooney since yes, then you should look Hal Mooney of Valrico is an June of 2017. “I have loved independent guitar teacher into taking lessons from music my entire life and (he also teaches the ukulele, Hal Mooney of Valrico. bass, bango and more) who dabbled with guitar. I wantMooney is an indetakes a different approach to ed to learn how to read teaching music. pendent music teacher music and that was my priwho has been teaching young and old mary goal,” said Costin. how to play the guitar for 21 years. He “Hal is a patient teacher and a good offers personal, one on one lessons in his one. He assesses your ability and cuslovely studio conveniently located in tomizes his lessons for your ability. He Valrico near the corner of Miller Rd. and does push you to learn. I have learned Lumsden Rd. more than I could ever image; especially Mooney takes a different approach to someone my age (60 plus),” added teaching music than most music teachCostin. ers. Mooney explained, “I focus on what Mooney enjoys being an independthe student needs and wants. I show ent teacher and enjoys teaching young them what they could do and how to do and older students alike. it.” Mooney does not emphasize strucLessons are just $20 for a half hour ture. He gives them songs to learn. one. He offers a family discount for two or “Everyone learns better by doing. If you more students. learn music by playing a song, you are Visit halmooneyguitar.com, find him going to pick it up faster, I want them to on Facebook or call 690-4194.
Page 18
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
Sports 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Connection By Nick Nahas and Photos courtesy of Jake Coulson
Warner Takes Coaching Job At Bowling Green, Bloomingdale Hires Coulson As Head Coach Former Bloomingdale football Head Coach Max Warner has accepted a job at Bowling Green University as the quarterbacks coach. Warner led the Bulls to three straight winning seasons, including a record-setting season this year, with an 112 record and an appearance in the regional final against perennial power Venice. The Bulls won their first two playoff games in school history and hosted their first playoff game ever. Jake Coulson with his players at the football banquet. “I am extremely proud of standard has been put in place and Jake what we were able to accomplish in our Coulson and the staff and players will conthree years at Bloomingdale,” said tinue to raise the bar in 2019 and beyond.” Warner. “The most important thing to me Bloomingdale has promoted first-year was the friendships and relationships we formed with the coaches, players, families, defensive coordinator Jake Coulson to head coach. He had great success as the and faculty at Bloomingdale. It is a very special place, and it all starts with the peo- defensive coordinator, leading a defense that gave up less than a touchdown per ple associated with the program. Bloomingdale will forever be in my family’s game and didn’t give up a point until the fifth game of the season, while posting six heart as my first opportunity to be a head total shutouts. “I’m thankful to Coach coach. Collectively, we all changed the Warner and the Bloomingdale administrafootball culture at Bloomingdale — the
coordinator for HamshireFannett in 2012-2013; and was the passing game coordinator for Florence from 20092011. Coulson will inherit a good program. The Bulls had minimal success until Max Warner became head coach three years prior. Bloomingdale had only made two playoff appearances in the schools 31-year history before Warner took them to the playoffs the last two seasons. “I think Coach Coulson Jake Coulson will take over as head coach for Max will be a great head coach and Warner, who will coach at Bowling Green University. I know for sure he knows a lot about football, and we all tion for the opportunity,” said Coulson. “It means the world to me. I have worked my respect him,” said junior running back Dominic Gonnella. “He leads by example. entire life for this opportunity, so I am He does everything the right way, in my ready to get going.” eyes, and I have a tremendous amount of Before Coulson came to respect for that.” Bloomingdale last season, he coached in According to Coulson, the Bulls offTexas, where he is from. He was the assistant head coach/special teams coor- season will start on January 8. “The offseason is where you win football games,” dinator for Georgetown’s East View high said Coulson. “We are going to out-work school from 2015-2017; the defensive our opponents.” coordinator for the 2014 Rockdale (12-2 ) state quarterfinalist team; the defensive
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January 2019
Page 19
Valrico Edition
Shen Yun: Chinese Civilization Comes To Life Through the Arts Shen Yun will once again visit the Tampa Bay and Lakeland area from February 20-26. You are invited to travel back to the magical world of ancient China and experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life. Shen Yun makes this possible by pushing the boundaries of the performing arts, with a unique blend of stunning costuming, high-tech backdrops and an orchestra like no other. Be prepared for a theatrical experience that will take your breath away This New York-based performing arts organization draws from 5,000 years of China’s civilization and cultures to create original music and dance performances. Live music accompanies perfectly synced dance performances. You will enjoy the synchronized routines and acrobatic style moves. The traditional Chinese culture that is presented by Shen Yun cannot be seen anywhere else in the world; not even in China, where the ruling communist regime has viewed China’s rich spiritual and artistic heritage as a threat to its ideology and for decades tried to erase it.
Staff Report
The organization started in 2006 with just one company and orchestra. Today, it boasts six full simultaneously traveling companies—each 80members strong with dancers, musicians, singers, emcees and technical crew—covering 20 nations, 150 cities in 500 performances. Ticket prices range from $80 to $150. Shen Yun will hold six performances at The Mahaffey Theater, 400 1st St S in St. Petersburg. Performances will take place Wednesday, February 20 at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, February 21 at 2 p.m., Friday, February 22 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, February 23 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, February 24 at 2 p.m. Call Shen Yun’s ticketing at 888-974-3698 or visit www.shenyun.com/stpetersburg/mahaffey-theater?_tuid=35eff0aa-072a-cbedb57d-59a554aa02aa to purchase tickets. Two performances will also take place at the RP Funding Center; Youkey Theatre, 701 W Lime St. in Lakeland on Tuesday, February 26 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Call 888-974-3698 or the theater box office at 863-834-8111 or online at www.shenyun.com/lakeland/youkey-theatre-rp-funding-center?_tuid=35eff0aa072a-cbed-b57d-59a554aa02aa.
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Page 20
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico
January 2019
Volume 17, Issue 1
Ph: 657-2418
Pages 23-31 Grand Opening Of Florida Orthopaedic Institute Celebrated
Florida Orthopaedic Institute celebrated the grand opening in November of its new Brandon office, located at the Brandon Gateway Medical Plaza, 560 S. Lakewood Dr. Florida Orthopaedic Institute relocated on September 10, 2018 to a larger facility to accommodate its growing practice in the Brandon community and to offer high-end technology and amenities. These enhancements include advanced X-ray and MRI machines, and an Orthopaedic Urgent Care, their second urgent care center in Tampa specializing in orthopedics offering faster service Florida Orthopaedic and lower cost than an emergency room. Florida Orthopaedic Institute’s Institute celebrated its new office Urgent Care is open during both reg- in Brandon with a grand opening in November. ular business hours and extended hours Monday through Saturday. No through PhiBrow Academy appointment is necessary, and all (Microblading USA. ages are welcome. Patients experiPhiBrows is a manual, semi-perencing an unexpected bone, joint or manent technique of hyper-realistic muscle injury, can visit the only eyebrow drawing in which the shape urgent care centers in Tampa Bay of eyebrows is calculated according to specializing in orthopedics. facial morphology and golden proportion (phi 1,618). Missy Duncan Completes Duncan received a certificate, a Certification As An PhiBrow logo with the unique number and Artist placed on the PhiBrows map on its Missy Duncan, with Missy’s Ink website. She said, “I’ve worked so permanent make recently completed a hard to achieve this and it’s been one new advanced certification and is now of the best things for my career”. a PhiBrow Artist, completing a course Duncan noted that the course was
Missy Duncan of Missy’s Ink recently completed an advanced certification after she completed a course to become a PhiBrow Artist.
challenging and at times frustrating when she wasn’t getting to the end fast enough. But, she is sure that it has made her so much better and more confident in her technique and in herself. She says “It’s an honor to be a Phibrow Artist.” She is excited to continue onto her next challenge, always wanting to learn more. Missy’s Ink is located at 1104 N. Parsons Ave., Ste. B in Brandon. For more information, call 659-0648 or visit www.missysink.com.
Practical Strategies Help With Concerns About Falling
The award-wining program, ‘A Matter of Balance: Managing
Concerns About Falls’ will be offered at The Bridges Retirement Community in partnership with Senior Connection Center, Inc. This free four week program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Participants will learn to view falls as controllable. They will set goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce fall risks, and exercise to increase strength and balance. Anyone interested in improving their balance, flexibility and strength or that have restricted activities because of falling concerns are encouraged to attend. Classes will be held every Tuesday and Thursday from February 5 – February 28 from 9 a.m.-11a.m. in the Clubhouse at The Bridges. Space is limited. Please call Janet Noah at 413-8900 for more information.
Free Seminar On Caring for House Plants
You have heard that house plants are great for cleaning the air you breathe and for improving the sense of well-being in your home. But you are not sure where to start. Kerby's Nursery is offering a free House Plants Seminar where you will learn how to care for house plants, where to place them in your home and how to repot when needed. All the tips and tricks you need to turn your bungalow into a jungalow.
Continued on next page
Page 22
Valrico Edition
Business Column Continued.............
By Michelle Colesanti
Join in at Kerby’s Nursery, 2311 S. Parsons Ave. in Valrico on Saturday, January 26 at 2 p.m. for a free, one-hour seminar. Registration is not required.
Unwind At Antonella Aesthetics & Spa
Vivian Falcon is the owner of Antonella Aesthetics & Spa.
Antonella Aesthetics & Spa is a local destination in the Brandon/Valrico area for a diverse range of clients seeking well-being, mother-daughter outings, birthday and bridals. Plant-based and fruit extract formulas are designed to improve your body's natural ability of regenerating, rejuvenating and boosting essential functions.
Antonella Aesthetics & Spa offers body wraps and skin treatments featuring botanical ingredients that improve circulation, draw environmental toxins out, drain excess water and deeply nourishes the skin from neck to toes. Treatments can be tailored for slimming, firming, anti-cellulite, relaxing, relieve tired legs and sore muscles. Owner Vivian Falcon holds various certifications and licenses in the field and takes pride of providing each client with preferential treatment. Antonella Aesthetics & Spa is located at 716 S. Oakwood Ave. in Brandon. Bond and unwind Monday through Saturday by appointment only. Visit www.AntonellaHolistics.com or call/text 850-3765 for appointments or more information.
Volume 16, Issue 1
January 2019
Page 23
Valrico Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2018
Osprey Observer Celebrates 17 Years Of Good
Team MaKEITHappen raised more than $5,000 for the Moffitt Cancer Foundation.
It seems like 2018 has been another year that has flown by. Wasn’t it just yesterday, we were celebrating 15 years of publishing positive community news? And this month, as we publish the January edition of the Osprey Observer newspapers, we are marking the 17th year of publishing local newspapers in the community. As a locally-owned, direct-mail community newspaper, what does this mean? This means that the S.E. Hillsborough Community has a voice and a representation. We have 14 freelance writers in the community that live here, work here and have chosen this area to raise a family. We care. We care about the schools, we care about the charities, about the
The Osprey Observer team and spouses enjoyed an annual holiday dinner at Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium.
The Osprey Observer Team welcomed teachers at the Back to School Teacher luncheon!
opportunites for our kids to volunteer want to celebrate the best posand for the businesses that choose to sible things that our community has come here. We care about the healthto offer and we want to get involved! care options for our families, about We are a free distribution, directour locally-owned, mom and pop mail newspaper because of the conbusinesses and we care when sometinued support of the businesses and one wins a prize, corporations in the comearns an award or munity. celebrates a new In addition, we have a certification. dedicated office team and The Osprey have staff members who Observer is an have been on board for active member of more than 15 years. They five local chambers have become familiar including Brandon faces in the community Chamber, the and they continue to make Greater Riverview an impact. Chamber, South We have an office Shore Chamber, Sun located at 918 Lithia City Chamber and Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, the FL 33511. We are in the The first edition of the Osprey Valrico/FishHawk Five Points Plaza directly Observer, Jan 2002. Chamber. We make across the street from the every effort to be in the know of road Neighborhood Walmart at the corner widenings, improvements, approvals of Lithia Pinecrest and Lumsden. and Grand Openings as we can. We Stop in sometime and say hello; we
always have extra editions and we’re happy to meet members of our community. Finally, the most important person is you, the readers in the community who continue to read the local paper and Shop Local at community businesses. If you have a story to share, we would love to hear from you! Follow us on social media and subscribe online to our bi-monthly newsletter. This is the best way to stay ‘in the know’ on all the latest news in the local community. We appreciate you for supporting the Osprey Observer and for reading the editions each month. Please let us know if there is something we can do for you! Sincerely, Marie Gilmore Managing Editor editor@ospreyobserver.com
Page 24
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 1
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2018
Dooley Orange Groves Celebrates Three Generations And 50By Kate Years Quesada Dooley Orange Grove is gearing up for its 51st season this month following a very successful year in 2018. The much anticipated U-Pick Honeybell season kicked off at the end of December and groups can now pick every day from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. until the oranges are gone. Citrus is also available to be shipped around the country and the gift shop has new offerings this year in addition to the well-loved citrus products, local honey and so much more. Original Story printed Jan 2018 A lot has changed in Hillsborough County in the last 50 years, but one thing that has remained consistent is the Houghtaling family and Dooley Orange Groves. Located in Ruskin, Dooleys has been handed down for three generations offering citrus U-pick, a retail store with fresh squeezed orange juice and fruit shipping all over the United States and many parts of Canada. The business started as a U-pick location in 1967 by Julius and Edith Houghtaling and is now owned by their grandson, Mike Houghtaling and his wife Diane, who began working on the property as teenagers 45 years ago. “Our family members have always worked hard to give customers a great product,” said Diane, who met Mike in 1971 when she was in the eleventh grade
at East Bay High School. “Grandma Dooley started sharing her delicious fruit with friends and neighbors in the 1960s, and she worked to build the business the old fashioned way, family-run, turning customers into friends.” When Mike started worked at the groves, the farm owned 80 acres of land,
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bye to the trees as the storm approached,” said Diane. The couple still lives on the property as many of their family members have done before them. Citrus picking season starts in November at Dooley Groves and runs through April when the growing season starts. During season, U-pick is open every day from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with tours taking place every half hour. “Each group is accompanied by a guide who can tell the pickers the history of our groves and give them information about the citrus industry in addition to helping them find the perfect fruit to pick,” said Diane. “We also like people to learn about the animals in our area and the nature corridor Owners Mike and Diane Houghtaling are celebrating that runs through the property.” Dooley provides clippers 50 years of Dooley Groves this year. and baskets for pickers, and it 40 acres of that hosting the 3,000 citrus is recommended that visitors wear trees. The farm now boasts 8,500 citrus enclosed shoes and long pants. After trees, with 6,500 of those being the wellpicking, the fruit is weighed and cusloved Honeybell variety which customers are charged by the pound for the tomers travel from miles to pick. But it produce. has not been an easy road. In 2005 the In addition to the famous fresh groves were completely wiped out by citsqueezed orange juice, the market stores rus canker, and it took five years for Mike offers a wide variety of local products and his team to replant. The recent threat from honey to marmalade and there are of Hurricane Irma also scared the various options for fruit shipping available Houghtalings, although they were lucky to in store, online and over the phone. For weather the storm almost unscathed. more information, visit www.dooley“We actually went out and said goodgroves.com or call (800) 522-6411.
January 2019
Page 25
Valrico Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2018 American Idol Finalists Perform At Benefit Concert For Hurricane Victims
By Amanda Boston
Following Bell Shoals Baptist Church’s Relief Concert for Hurricane Maria, the church sent $16,133.70 to the North American Mission Board for disaster relief assistance in Puerto Rico. Bell Shoals also donated $5,000 to Metropolitan Ministries who was also serving families affected by the hurricanes. Othoniel Valdres, the pastor of Bell Shoals Hispanic Campus, said, “We have many people with Puerto Rican roots living in the Brandon area, so seeing what we could do to help this island nation after this terrible tragedy seemed like a natural thing to do. God calls us to help those in need.” Durant High School graduate and recording Additionally, Bell Shoals artist Jeremy Rosado will perform for the bendeployed four mission teams, totalefit concert aiding Puerto Rico. ing 21 people, to Puerto Rico. The prayed majority of the work was comprised to see how God would use us to help of debris removal and roof repairs. the precious people of Puerto Rico.” Original Story printed Feb 2018 To support the worthy cause, mark Aptly titled Puerto Rico—We your calendar Haven’t Forgotten, Bell Shoals for Saturday, Baptist Church is hosting February 17 at a concert to raise funds 7 p.m. Doors for victims of Hurricane open at 6 p.m. Maria in Puerto Rico. The On September 20, concert Hurricane Maria made a takes place at direct hit on Puerto Rico Bell Shoals’ at Category 5 strength. It Brandon is the Island’s worst natuCampus with ral disaster on record. tickets available at the door. Dr. Stephen Rummage, the senior Ticket cost is $7 per pastor of Bell Shoals Baptist Church, person.Discounted tickets are availsaid, “From the day the devastation of able for $5 per person if purchased in Hurricane Maria was known, we advance at www.bellshoals.com/con-
Blind from birth—Scott MacIntyre is an author, inspirational speaker and Christian singer-songwriter.
cert. A love offering will be collected during the event, with all proceeds going to support hurricane relief efforts in Puerto Rico. The show will feature performances from two American Idol finalists—Scott MacIntyre, from season eight and Jeremy Rosado, from season eleven. Rosado, a Durant High School graduate, released his first album Heartbeat in 2015 and an extended play record titled Rewind in 2017. He is also a worship leader for Free Life
Chapel in Lakeland. “I am so grateful to be a part of this benefit concert for Puerto Rico,” said Rosado. “When I got the call from Bell Shoals, I didn’t think twice. You see I have so much family back on the island, and since the hurricane came through months ago, I've wanted to attach myself to something that would benefit [them]." Blind from birth, MacIntyre is a two-time kidney transplant recipient. After his appearance on American Idol, the world fell in love with MacIntyre’s vocals and story, launching him into the public eye as both a musician and inspirational speaker. His album Lighthouse, which includes the song Remarkable, debuted at No. 1 on the Christian Radio Chart. “Our church has a special love for the people of Puerto Rico,” said Dr. Rummage as he noted that many living in the Brandon and Tampa area have family and friends in Puerto Rico. For information or to support the relief effort, visit www.bellshoals.com or call 689-4229. The Brandon Campus is located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. Additional information on the artists can be found at scottmacintyre.com and www.iamjeremyrosado.com.
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Page 26
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2018 Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. To Open In Erindale Plaza Near Car Wash On The Greens
Two Local High Schools, Bloomingdale & Newsome Host Relay For Life Events
One of the most anticipated openings in the area for 2018, Bullfrog Creek Brewery has quickly become a well-loved local spot. Offering food trucks and fun themed events almost every night of the week, from open mic on Mondays to Music Bingo on Thursdays, trivia on Wednesdays and Sundays and live music on Friday and Saturday nights, Bullfrog Creek offers fun for everyone. “We pride ourselves on being a family friendly brewery with things to do for people of all ages,” said owner Jamie Ratcliff. The brewery is also proud to give back to the community and has raised more than $12,000 in its first year for charities including FishHawk Strong Relay for Life team and Newsome basketball. A schedule of events is available on Facebook at BullfrogCreekBrewing. Original Story printed Feb 2018 Valrico resident Jamie Ratcliff is realizing a dream this month as he gets ready to open the doors to Bullfrog Creek Brewing Company on Lithia PInecrest Rd. in mid-March. Ratcliff began his brewing journey last year and is very excited about sharing his craft with local beer lovers. The 3,000 sq. ft. brewery and tap room will be housed in Erindale Plaza, next to Car Wash on the Greens, in a space formerly occupied by the Erindale Market and gas station. “The location is a perfect fit for my vision because of the great bones and porch area where we can offer outdoor seating and an area for entertainment,” said Ratcliff, a veteran, born and raised in the Valrico area. Ratcliff, who works closely with the brewery’s production manager, Chanse Haas, recently brought brew
2018 was yet another successful year for local Relay for Life events. The FishHawk Relay, held at Newsome High School, raised $170,000 thanks to work of 900 participants. The 2019 event will be held at Newsome once again on Saturday, March 30. The Bloomingdale Relay, with 350 participants, raised $76,800 in 2018 and is scheduled to take place at Bloomingdales High School on Friday, April 26 this year. Events are also scheduled at Riverview and East Bay high schools in April. Those events last year raised a combined total of $162,200. Original Story printed April 2018 Bloomingdale and Newsome high schools are inviting community members to join them in fighting cancer next month at their annual Relay For Life events. On Friday, April 6 at 6 p.m., students and community members will join teams at Bloomingdale High School to walk, camp overnight and participate in other activities to raise funds for the American Cancer Society (ACS), while the relay at Newsome High School, with similar events, will take place on Saturday, April 14. “Relay For Life is ACS’s largest fundraising movement,” said Samantha Schneider, ACS Community Development Manager. Thirty-five teams, with between five and 25 members, are signed up to participate in the Bloomingdale event and 50 teams in the Newsome event, with participants ranging from children to 75 year olds. The fundraising goal for the Bloomingdale event is $78,000, as participants raised $77,000 last year, and the goal for the Newsome relay is $195,000, the same amount raised at the event last year when participants surpassed their goal of $175,000. “Relay For Life provides an outlet for individuals touched by cancer to feel that they are not alone, whether the disease has affected them or a
By Kate Quesada
Valrico residents Jamie Ratcliff and Chanse Haas plan to open the doors to Bullfrog Creek Brewing Company in mid-March.
master Matt Morrow to the team from Arches Brewery in Atlanta. They plan to offer 16 types of beer on tap with a variety of choices including IPAs, pilsners, porters and stouts. The brewery uses a nano-brewing, small-capacity system giving it the capability to brew many different types of beers and change out the recipes regularly. Bullfrog Creek will also offer guest taps with cider and other local beers and will have wine available to purchase. Plans include regularly scheduled food trucks on the weekends and partnerships with local restaurants who will deliver food to the brewery. “As a long time resident, I am so excited to bring craft beer to the Valrico community,” said Ratcliff. “We plan to host a lot of local events focusing on good beer and great service.” In addition to offering drinks and entertainment and a founder’s club opportunity, Ratcliff plans to schedule events where residents can come in and participate in the brewing. “It is such a cool process,” he said. “It starts out as grain and turns into a great beer......all right here in Valrico.” The brewery, located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., will be open every day from 12 Noon until 9 or 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends. For more information, call 703-8835 or visit www.bullfrogcreekbrewing.com.
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Relay for Life events raising money for the American Cancer Society are taking place at Newsome and Bloomingdale high schools next month.
loved one,” said Schneider. “The fact that participants walk throughout the night makes us a unique event that resembles the fact that cancer never sleeps and neither do we at our 12, 15 or 18 hour events,” said Schneider. Each event has a theme which participants use for costumes, fundraising games and items, decorations for their camp sites and themed laps during the event. The Bloomingdale relay will use cartoons and fairy tales to ‘Make the Fairytale of a Cure Come True,’ and Newsome attendees will have a ‘Battle of the Bands’ while raising funds. One highlight of the event is the Luminaria Ceremony that typically starts at 9 p.m. and showcases luminaria bags lit in memory or in honor of loved ones. “It is a very moving ceremony where we turn the stadium lights off and hold a silent lap,” said Schneider. “The luminary bags can be purchased online or the day of the event for a donation.” Bloomingdale’s event will take place at the school’s track, located at 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, from 6 p.m. April 6 to 6 a.m. April 7. Newsome High School, located at 16550 FishHawk Blvd., is one of the few 18 hour Heritage Events and will start at 12 Noon on Saturday, April 14 and end at 6 a.m., Sunday April 15. Sign up to participate in either event at www.relayforlife.org. For more information, contact Schneider at 319-5920.
January 2019
Page 27
Valrico Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2018
Feed The Bay Returns This April Along With Dedicated Volunteers Feed the Bay 2018 generated 124,254 pounds of food from 15 Publix locations. The one-day community-wide effort included 31 church campuses and 12 agencies, totaling 704 volunteers. Janine Skipper was a store coordinator and truck driver for one of the Publix locations and reminisced about the day. "This past year we had a tornado touchdown out in the Bay at the height of Feed the Bay,” said Skipper. “Even with the impending weather, the volunteers and Every year Feed the Bay collects parishioners came out in droves, upwards of 160,000 pounds of food and we had a full truck. Even and store gift cards. through the storms—the wind tion of Fire Station No.44 is and the rain, God’s people showed now well underway, with plans up and gave from their hearts.“ to complete the project by Feed the Bay yields instant and December 2017 and to open the visible results of replenished new station to serve the public in pantries in food agencies across early 2018. the Bay as volunteers and shop“The fire station was much needpers serve as the Hands and Feet ed for the citizens of the area, so we of Jesus. This year’s Feed the Bay can have quicker response times for will be held on Sunday, March 31 those that call us in an emergency,” from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Visit said Deputy Chief of Administration www.feedthebay.org for more infor- Jason Dougherty. The 9,300 sq. ft., mation or to volunteer. three-bay fire station is located on the Original Story printed March south side of Fishhawk Blvd. on a 2018 two-acre lot donated by Newland It was nearly two years ago when Communities, between Mosaic Dr. residents first learned about the and Bell Shells Rd. Construction county’s plans to build a brand new costs are approximately $2.8 million fire station to better serve the with a total budget of $3.4 million. FishHawk and Riverview communiThe project is managed by ties. Mansour Yazdi, Real Estate and County officials hosted a groundFacilities Services, and is funded breaking ceremony in May and are through the Public Safety pleased to announce that construc-
By Amanda Boston Improvement Bond Project Funds. The three-bay station will mirror the newly completed station No. 7 on Bloomingdale Ave., which includes modern living quarters and workspace for each of the 24-hour full-time crew of five to six personnel each shift, a fire
cials decided that the new location will serve the community better. HCFR Chief Dennis Jones emphasized the benefits of the new location, which he said will maximize response time for residents living in the area. “The new station will be an Advanced Life Support station (ALS), with a fire engine ladder truck and Rescue Ambulance Unit,” Jones said adding that the new station will have a direct access to FishHawk Blvd. for fire rescue vehicles, which is something the property within the originally proposed sports complex site did not have. Earlier this year, Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, emergency operations officials, Fire Rescue personnel, and members of the community also celebrated the opening of the County’s brand new $36 million Public Safety Operations Complex (PSOC) in Brandon. According to County officials the adopted $4.9 billion FY17 budget, which represents a $100 million increase over the previous year is a balanced, equitable plan to provide Hillsborough County residents with vital services. Aside from funds to support Fire Feed the Bay welcomes young children to Rescue, the increase meant new participate alongside a parent. funding for transportation, public safeengine, and rescue unit. ty, parks, and libraries for In 2005, a site was originally des- Hillsborough County. ignated for a fire station within the For more information, please visit FishHawk Sports Complex, but offiwww.hillsboroughcounty.org.
Page 28
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2018 Co-Work Space, Philly Pretzels, Kimi’s Ice Cream Join Leaven Brewery At Shoppes Of Boyette Plaza A lot has changed in the Shoppes of Boyette Plaza since Leaven Brewery opened its doors early last year. Not only has Riverview’s first brewery become a destination for craft brew and food lovers from all Jay and Adam Souza of will open the over the area, but the second location of Kimi’s Ice Cream & plaza is now home to Coffees in July in the Shoppes of Boyette. three additional eating opening in the coming establishments. months, in addition to the Philly Pretzel Factory, located at recently opened Leaven 11244 Boyette Rd., is now open offerBrewery which celebrated ing fresh baked Philly-style sweet and its grand opening with a savory pretzels, pretzel dogs and Greater Riverview more. For more info, call 741-0005 or Chamber of Commerce visit www.phillypretzelfactory.com. ribbon cutting last week. In addition, Kimi’s Ice Cream and Leaven Brewery, owned by Apollo Coffees, which has been supplying Beach residents KJ and Jillian Lynch, is sweet treats to Apollo Beach for years, now open Fridays and Saturdays, 3-10 also opened a location in the plaza p.m. The brewery offers 12 beers on tap offering 43 flavors of homemade, that include their flagship beers, plus seagourmet ice-cream with a large variety sonal offerings and a guest tap featuring of sauces and toppings. Kimi’s opens beers from other Florida breweries. Food everyday at 12 Noon at 11270 Boyette trucks and local restaurants will provide Rd. For more information, visit food. For more details, visit www.leavenwww.kimisicecreamsandcoffees.com. brewery.com or call 813-677-7023. Finally, the authentic Vietnamese The Venue will be a meeting space restaurant Pho Loc Tho is also now for professionals to host training, conferopen offering a wide variety of fresh, ences, networking and other small made to order food choices and wine. events. Owned by Julie and Eros Dahl, For more information, call 570-6163. also owners of the neighboring Riverview The restaurant is located at 11262 Mortgage, the Venue is set to open in late Boyette Rd. April or early May. Original Story printed April 2018 Build-out of the 1,400 sq. ft. space is The Shoppes of Boyette is 100 perunderway and when complete, it will feacent leased. There will be four new stores ture two bathrooms and a kitchen area, in
By Sharon Still
addition t the meeting space. Tables and chairs offering seating for up to 80 people, plus audio visual equipment will be provided. The Dahls are members of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce and have been active members of the community for the past five years. “We are looking forward to working with more people in the area and being able to fill this need,” said Julie. For more information, call 813-773MEET. Philly Pretzel Factory is another new addition to the plaza with an anticipated opening of late June or early July, according to owners Michele and John Maffei. The Maffeis, Philadelphia natives, have been interested in opening a Philly Pretzel Factory franchise for several years and after moving to the Tampa area in 2016 and seeing that there were no franchises in the area, they decided it was the perfect opportunity. “We came in contact with a lot of people from the north
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who knew about the pretzels and were excited about the idea of having them available in the area. The pretzels are homemade from scratch, hand-twisted and fresh baked daily. Pretzels, minipretzels and pretzel twists will be on the menu along with specialty items like pretzel dogs, pepperoni pretzel melts and pepperoni cheesesteak. Party trays and orders for special events, catering, fundraisers and more will be the focus of the business. Visit www.phillypretzelfactory.com or call 808-1469 to find out more. Kimi’s Ice Cream & Coffees, which currently has a location in Apollo Beach, will open a second location in the Shoppes of Boyette. “The target opening date is July 1,” said owner Jeff Souza. The store will be run by his two sons Jay and Adam, who also run the Apollo Beach store, doubling its business since they took over from the previous owners two years ago. The Souzas plan to open three more locations in the south Hillsborough area in the next five or six years. To find out more, visit www.kimisicecreamandcoffees.com or call 645-2038. Rounding out the plaza, Gel Nails & Spa has expanded into the two spaces adjacent to its existing location and Pho Loc Tho, a Vietnamese restaurant, will open in the remaining 1750-sq-ft. space in early summer. The Shoppes of Boyette is located on the northwest corner of Boyette and Balm Riverview roads. There is one out parcel available. Call 941-954-2300 or visit www.icorr.com for more information.
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January 2019
Page 29
Valrico Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2018 Ten Year Celebration Of Life Fundraiser Celebrates Queena’s Journey Queena has been working very hard at getting more control over her body in a variety of ways. She has been able to maintain herself sitting up at the side of her hospital bed for up to two minutes at times, with some support of pillows to guide her position. There have been times where she has been able to stand up with the help of two people, for up to 6 minutes. In her walking system the TRAM unit, she has been able to overcome several barriers. Before, her muscles used to stay very tight, which stopped her from bending easily at her hip and knee to take steps and walk. Now, she has had several days where she can be assisted through 6-7 steps in the TRAM before the muscle contractions begin to affect her again. She has shown great progress as well in her ability to help adjust her head
Staff Report
Sponsorship and donation inquiries should be directed to Donato at avdonato1@gmail.com or at www.joinqueena.com/contact/. To donate funds towards the cost of the fundraiser, make checks payable to Hope Heals The Brain Inc (subject line: The Story Lives On) or at www.joinqueena.com/donate/. The Ten Year Celebration of Life Fundraiser & Memoir Reveal will be held on Sunday, April 29, 2018 at 1 p.m. at the GFWC Tampa Woman's Club. “There is much to be celeOn Sunday, April 29, a Ten Year Celebration of Life Fundraiser & Memoir Reveal will take place at the FWC Tampa Woman’s Club to celebrate and brated: 10 years of ongoing honor Queena’s accomplishments and continuing journey of healing. therapies, battling for justice in position, lowed Queena’s story. Initially identified the courtroom, fighting for medical benebringing it as a victim following the brutal attack at fits, raising funds, volunteering,” noted more into the the Bloomingdale Library, Queena has Donato. middle when turned into a beacon of hope to her supMoney raised at this celebration assisted, porters and followers and she is now event will be donated to 501c3 non-profit whereas she referred to as a survivor. organization Hope Heals The Brain Inc. used to have A decade later, she still works tireand Queena’s Medical Trust Fund. great difficullessly in daily therapy sessions to regain Queena’s mother has been working ty with her the life she once knew. on a very special project: HOPE – The neck tilting On Sunday, April 29, Queena will Anchor for my Soul; A Mother's Memoir to the left. take a break from therapy to celebrate of Faith, Love and Forgiveness. The She has with the community, the JoinQueena memoir is centered on Queena's attack overall made several team is looking for sponsors or donations and the events which followed, but will improvements, and should continue for the event including food and bevertake readers through her mother’s view to make more. ages, live entertainment, bar service, of childhood in Vietnam and her journey Original Story printed April 2018 silent auction items and volunteers. to the United States. In April 2008, a young woman, for"This is an extra special event Queena’s attacker, Kendrick Morris, merly known as the Bloomingdale Library because it honors a huge accomplishwas found guilty on all counts and senAttack Survivor, was brutally raped, beatment not just for Queena, but for everytenced to 65 years in prison in 2010. In en and left to die outside of the one who has found their place in her March 2017, he was re-sentenced Bloomingdale Regional Library. Over the story over the last 10 years,” said her sisto life in prison. Follow Queena’s last 10 years, the community has folter Anna Donato. progress at JoinQueena.com.
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Page 30
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2018
Sheriff’s Office Teams With Kraftologee To Host Coffee With A Cop
By Kate Quesada
HCSO Community Resource Deputy Cliff Residents from all over the Brandon area met with Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Fletcher is one of eight to ten officers who representatives, including Sheriff Chad Chronister, at Moreno Bakery last month for the deputies Breanna Rodriguez and Clifford will attend Coffee with a Cop taking place at second Coffee with a Cop event of the year. Fletcher hosted the second Coffee with a Cop Kraftologee in Riverview on Thursday, May 3 event of the year at Moreno Bakery. Kathi eight and ten officers from HCSO’s from 8-9:30 a.m. public feels the same way.” Hayes Hillsborough County PTA Vice President District V are planning to attend. According to Rodriguez, plans Leadership and Kate Quesada Osprey “Our goal is to provide citizens with The District V Community are in the works for additional simiObserver News Reporter were among the a chance to engage and interact with commmunity members in attendance. Resource Deputies hosted two very lar events this year.
successful Coffee with a Cop outreach events. The events were organized by Fletcher and Rodriguez, both community resource deputies for Hillsborough County’s Region V working out of the Bloomingdale Substation, to increase HCSO’s interaction with the public and to allow residents a chance to speak with deputies and ask questions in a relaxed environment. The second event of which took place in August at Moreno Bakery with 40 to 50 people in attendance, including Sheriff Chad Chronister. “One of our goals this year is to get out and meet more of our residents, face-to-face,” said Rodriguez, a Valrico resident. “And seeing the wonderful turnout for this event makes us feel that the
The District also coordinated donations of Christmas gifts for children in Brandon Regional Hospital last month. Original Story first ran in May, 2018. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is teaming up with Kraftologee in Riverview to offer residents a unique experience this month. From 8-9:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 3, HCSO officers who patrol the Brandon, Valrico and Riverview area will be on hand at the coffee shop to network and talk with residents and business owners. The event, which is the brain child of Bloomingdale Community Resource Deputies Cliff Fletcher and Breanna Rodrigues, is called Coffee with a Cop and according to Fletcher between
the deputies who work in their area,” said Fletcher, a Riverview resident who has been with HCSO for more than 10 years. Fletcher hopes that in addition to concerned citizens, local business owners will attend the event. “This Coffee with a Cop is unique because we are hoping to reach as many local businesses as possible to hear their thoughts on our community and how we can work together,” said Fletcher, whose role as community resource deputy means that he is always looking for ways to connect with citizens. The partnership between HCSO and Kraftologee was formed at a Riverview Chamber meeting when Fletcher mentioned to a member that he was looking for a place to host an
event for the public. “We looking forward to meeting other business owners who might be able to host similar events in the future,” said Fletcher. Residents who are not able to attend the event, but who are interested in getting to know their local officers, are invited to visit Fletcher and Rodrigues at the Bloomingdale Community Substation, located at 3622 Erindale Dr. between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. The station also responds to property crime and handles community complaints and fraud reports for the Bloomingdale area. For more information, call the station at 635-8040. Kraftologee is located at 10312 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview and can be reached at 252-3106.
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January 2019
Page 31
Valrico Edition
Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2018
NEW TO THE MARKET
Proactive Water Testing At County Schools Staff Report
The first year of districtwide water testing has been completed. Hillsborough County Public Schools took the proactive step of testing to ensure the water that students and staff drink is safe. Fixtures at every school and district office, 251 facilities in all, have now been tested and any issues found were corrected. The maintenance crews collected water samples from every drinking fountain, kitchen food prep sink, or other fixture used for drinking water, in addition to other samples throughout the schools. Maintenance teams took samples from 11,595 fixtures. Fewer than 2% of those, a total of 207 fixtures, came back with lead levels above the District’s strict standard of 15 parts per billion, which is stricter than what the Environmental Protection Agency recommends. All of the fixtures that showed elevated levels were immediately taken out of operation and not used again until the problem was fixed and the water passed a new test. There were no school-wide issues. Original Story printed Sept 2018 In recent months, there have been a number of news stories throughout the country about high levels of lead in school drinking water. Hillsborough County School District has proactive efforts in our district to ensure the water that students and staff drink is safe for consumption. According to Chris Farkas, Deputy Superintendent of Operations, “Since last year, we have tested the water at 1,781 individual faucets, drinking fountains, and fixtures where water is likely to be used for drinking or cooking in 53 schools and district sites. We will continue testing the drinking water sources in our schools for lead until we have checked all 270 facilities in our district.” Since the average campus age is 50 years old, older pipes and fixtures do have a higher likelihood of adding lead to
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water. Federal guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency recommend action to fix an issue when lead is measured at 20 parts per billion or higher. One part per billion is equivalent to a single drop of water in a swimming pool. “Our district is using a stricter standard of 15 parts per billion. Any fixture found to have lead levels of 15 parts per billion or higher is immediately taken out of operation and is not used again until the problem is fixed,” commented Farkas. Of the 1,781 samples taken so far, 26 have returned with levels higher than the guidelines. District protocol is to immediately shut down the affected faucet, correct the issue, and then retest the water to ensure the levels are in compliance before putting the faucet back into service. Options to correct an issue include replacing the fixture, adding water filters, or other plumbing projects. Alternative sources of water may be supplied to schools if needed. Each school may have dozens of faucets requiring testing, and results take time to come back from the testing lab. Results are posted as received at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/watertesting. If a school has a fixture testing over the 15 parts per billion level, parents and staff will be notified by email and text message. If you have any questions about the testing or results as we receive them, please visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/doc/2012/maintenance/resources/watertesting-faq/.
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Page 32
Volume 16, Issue 1
Valrico Edition
Top Producer 2002 - 2018
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