Bloomingdale/FishHawk
50
31 C E L E B R A T I N G
December 2019 Volume 18, Issue 12 Ph: 657-2418 1 7
Y E A R S
O F
P U B L I S H I N G
Riverview To Host Dancing For Donations' First Nutcracker Performance
By Tatiana Ortiz
Photo courtesy of Selah Photography
Dancing for Donations performers are getting ready for their first Nutcracker performance.
C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
FishHawk Dunkin’ Fills Cups To Brim With $5,000 Seeds Of Hope Donation
By Michelle Caceres
It was a dark, chilly morning when FishHawk’s highly anticipated Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins opened their doors, but the 5 a.m. opening time and weather didn’t deter hungry patrons from being first in line when its doors opened. Local residents Jonathan Rosano and Will Power lined up at 4 a.m., eager to order a cup of coffee and donuts. “We both work at Publix and found out it was opening so [we] thought it would be fun to come and be able to say we were its first customers,” said Rosano. Located across from Newsome High School at 16645 FishHawk Blvd., Dunkin’ is decked out in the next-generation design concept that was introduced by the brand in 2018, which includes an eight-headed cold beverage tap system and Nitro cold brew, a glass bakery case that gives customers a better view of the donuts, free Wi-Fi, two drive-thru lanes and indoor and outdoor seating. In addition to the new look, customers in a hurry can use On-the-Go mobile ordering through the Dunkin’ app and pick it up by either walking in-store or in the drive-thru lane dedicated for mobile orders. In addition to its iconic donuts, the menu features easy-to-eat items such as its meat-free Beyond Sausage breakfast sandwich, burrito bowls and a power breakfast sandwich consisting of a veggie egg white omelet with spinach, peppers, onions, turkey sausage and American cheese on multigrain sandwich bread topped with seeds and rolled oats. Owners Nick and Thomas Apostoleres are no first-time franchisees.
The FishHawk Dunkin’ is their 18th store in the Tampa Bay area. Nick’s parents opened a Dunkin’ in Brandon in 1973 and he started working in their store when he was 14. “I would go to the store every day before and after school,” he said. “I was making $1.50 an hour and I
loved it.” As Nick became an adult and opened his own stores, Thomas also grew up working for his dad. “I’m thirdgeneration Dunkin’,” he said. Even before the store opening, the Apostoleres’ were putting down roots in the community by generously sponsoring local sports teams and PTAs. “FishHawk has been yelling out ‘we want Dunkin’’ for years,” said Nick. “We are here now and want to be a part of this community.” The store will host a grand opening celebration on Saturday, December 7 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with free prize giveaways, donut decorating for the kids, entertainment and a visit from the Dunkin’ mascot. Dunkin’ FishHawk is open Sunday-Thursday from 5 a.m.-10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 a.m.-12 Midnight.
40 BELL SHOALS WIDENING ...................PG 3 AROUND TOWN EVENTS ...................PG 6 WILDLIFE W/ALI.................................PG 9 SPORTS .....................................PGS 34‐35 EYE ON BUSINESS .....................PGS 25‐26
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Take a seat and travel back into the storyline of the famous Nutcracker as it will be performed by Dancing for Donations for the first time at Riverview High School on Saturday, December 21 at 3 p.m. Nearly 40 dancers of all abilities between the ages of 3 to 12 will be participating. Tickets cost $8 prior to it or $10 during the week of it. Those interested in attending can purchase tickets through https://27007.recitalticketing.com/r/?tid= 584&sid=0&message=. President and Director of Dancing for Donations Sara Battaglia mentioned how this all came into fruition. “We put on a smaller Christmas performance every December and thought it would be appropriate for the dancers to be exposed to the Nutcracker,” Battaglia said. “To add, as a child I always performed in it as well.” The Dancing for Donations performers will be placing their own spin to the traditional Nutcracker as it will remain inclusive. Battaglia and another teacher are assisting with the choreography, which includes acro dancing. Some of
the costumes for this recital were donated by Traveling Tutus. Dancing for Donations partners with Traveling Tutus and donates to them monthly. With this partnership, Dancing for Donations can provide assistance to Traveling Tutus in regards to assuring that its exact mission of the love of dance and spread of joy become available for individuals around the world. Battaglia shared that the recital is open to the public and is seeking community support through volunteers, sponsors and more. Anyone who would like to assist should send an email to dance4donations@gmail.com. “Overall, I am excited for our dancers as they get to perform the Nutcracker,” Battaglia said. Individuals who cannot attend will get another chance to watch a smaller version of the Nutcracker on December 23 at 2 p.m. at The Bridges Assisted Living Community at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. For more information, visit https://www.dancing4donations.org. Check out its Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/dancingfordonations/. Dancing for Donations is located at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd. #101 in Brandon and is open Monday through Friday from 3-7:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 9:45-11:30 a.m.
P O S I T I V E
LITHIA
Now Offering FREE DELIVERY Jonathan Rosano and Will Power were Dunkin’s first customers at its FishHawk location. The store will host a grand opening celebration on Saturday, December 7 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with free prize giveaways, donut decorating for the kids, entertainment and a visit from the Dunkin’ mascot. Dunkin’ FishHawk is open Sunday-Thursday from 5 a.m.-10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 a.m.-12 Midnight.
for purchases over $50 Serving Our Customers in 4 Locations: Lithia • Big Bend, Riverview • 301, Riverview • Sun City Center
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Page 2
Volume 18, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
From The Law Office of
Griffin & Associates, P.A.
Rachel L. Griffin
Eileen H. Griffin
Ryan W. Griffin
FAMILY LAW PROBATE & ESTATE PLANNING
(813) 681-2612 | 1430 Oakfield Drive • Brandon, Florida 33511 | www.egriffinlaw.com
December 2019
Page 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
County Updates Residents On Bell Shoals Widening Project
By Kate Quesada
Hillsborough buildings, heavy highCounty officials met way construction, site with residents at work and underground Bloomingdale High utilities. The company School last month to has 40 years of conshare details of the struction experience much-anticipated and an annual volume widening of Bell of $45,000,000. Shoals Rd. Drivers may have According to noticed changes on Hillsborough County the road over the last Construction on the widening of Bell year as workers reloSenior Media Shoals Rd. from its intersection with Relations Strategist Boyette Rd. and FishHawk Blvd. to cated private utilities to Chris Wilkerson, conmake room for the Bloomingdale Ave. is expected to start this month. struction on the road is road expansion. expected to begin this month. The bridge over the Alafia River on “The proposed changes include Bell Shoals Rd., just north of the replacing a two-lane undivided rural road FishHawk Blvd. and Boyette Rd. intersecto a four-lane divided urban roadway,” tion, will also be widened during the projsaid Wilkerson, who explained that the ect. construction will take place from Boyette “The bridge work will begin in Rd. to Bloomingdale Ave. over approxiJanuary or February of 2020 and will be mately two years. completed within 18 to 24 months followIn addition to the widening, improveing,” said Wilkerson. ments, including a bike lane and sidewalk According to county representatives, in each direction of the 3.1-mile stretch, funding for the $65 million Capital will occur during the construction phase. A Improvement Project comes from several new signal will be installed at Starwood sources, including approximately $8 milAve. and signals at Glenhaven Dr., lion from the Community Local Gas Tax, Rosemead Dr. and Bloomingdale Ave. $27 million from the Community are scheduled for upgrades. According to Investment Tax, $4 million from the Public county representatives, the road will Utilities Relocation Fund, $10 million from never be entirely closed during the projthe general and other reserve funds and ect. $16 million from developers Newland Residents at the meeting were Communities. informed that David Nelson Construction Visit HCFLGov.net/CountyProjects or Co. was awarded the contract for the call Public Works at 635-5400. More construction. According to its website, information about David Nelson David Nelson Construction Co. is a genConstruction Co. can be found at eral contractor specializing in commercial www.nelson-construction.com.
TECO Manatee Viewing Center Reaches Its 34th Season By Tatiana Ortiz
Free parking and admission are provided as well at the center. When the waters reach 68 degrees or colder, visitors can see multiple manatees. At the on-site environmental education building, visitors can learn about manatees, Tampa Electric Company’s power plant, stewardship programs and more. It also includes puzzle tables and manatee bones to Stroll along the TECO touch, just to Manatee Viewing Center, name a few. which is near the Big Bend While visiting, Power Station in Apollo check out the Beach, as it reopened on butterfly garNovember 1 for its 34th seaden, gift shop son and you can visit until and concesApril 15, 2020. Besides getsion. ting the opportunity to spot There are Part of the tidal walk at the TECO many manatees, it also Manatee Viewing Center. about 35 voloffers a wide array of activiunteers who ties for all ages, such as the 900 ft. tidal work at the center. The volunteers are walk, the 50 ft. wildlife observation tower, educators who provide information about the Rays touch tank that is in partnership the Florida manatees, birds and more. with the Florida Aquarium and more. “All in all, this is a great fun place to TECO’s Senior Environmental learn about manatees and more with Technician Jamie Woodlee said, “I have friends and family,” Woodlee said. been a permanent part of this facility for For more information, visit www.tamabout 20 years and feel excited to see paelectric.com/company/mvc/ or check how much it has grown.” out its Facebook page at The Tampa Electric Company has www.facebook.com/ManateeViewingCent owned and operated the center since its er/. establishment in 1986. On average, it The Manatee Viewing Center is draws more than 300,000 people during located at 6990 Dickman Rd. in Apollo its season. People from all over the Beach and is open Monday through globe, such as Ireland, Japan, New Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It closes Zealand and other places, travel to check on Christmas Eve at 3 p.m. and is closed out the manatees. The average daily vision Christmas and Easter. For more infortor attendance for the center is 2,400. mation, call 228-4289.
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Page 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Locally Owned Creative Mailbox Manufactures & Repairs Local Mailboxes
Buckhorn Tourney Raises Kiwanis Support For Terrific Kids
Among the many need a new mailbox things FishHawk flag, number or latch Ranch is known for replacement. The mailare the iconic mailboxboxes themselves are es at the end of every bolted constructions, driveway. Residents which means individwill be pleased to ual parts can be know that these mailreplaced, in contrast to boxes are manufacwelded construction tured and supplied by mailboxes, which have a local company to be fully replaced owned by a lifelong when one part breaks. Brandon-area resident. “Most of our mailScott and Monica boxes last in great Scott and Monica Tappan own Creative Mailbox Designs. Tappan purchased condition for 15 to 25 Creative Mailbox Designs, which sells years,” he said. curbside and cluster mailboxes, decoraIf a part is needed, customers have tive street signs, entry monuments signs several options when it comes to replaceand more, in 2016. ment. “We will ship UPS anywhere in the “We are a turnkey provider, meaning U.S., install anywhere in the southeastern we install and service what we sell,” said U.S., can deliver with our trucks anyScott, a graduate of Brandon High where in the state or customers may pick School. up products from our Tampa or Orlando Founded in 1986, Creative Mailbox locations,” said Scott. Designs provides high-end, aluminum, Many of the decorative signs, includpowder-coated curbside mailboxes for ing stop signs, throughout FishHawk thousands of communities throughout were also provided, and are maintained, Florida in addition to FishHawk Ranch. by Creative Mailbox Designs. “Most new boxes are initially pur“We are seeing a significant shift chased by a homeowner or developer, throughout the state towards cluster but we maintain inventory and have tech- boxes to reduce costs for the postal servnicians in Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville ice, among other advantages,” said Scott, and Fort Myers to service our customers who explained that his business is one of for not only new purchases, but for any only a few mailbox manufacturers authorother service needs,” said Scott. “We ized by the United States Postal Office offer installation and repair for everything (USPS) to manufacture USPS-approved we sell and can still repair or replace mailboxes. most everything we have sold.” To learn more about Creative In FishHawk, Scott explained that he Mailbox Designs, visit www.creativemailis mostly contacted by residents who boxdesigns.com or call 818-7100.
The Terrific Kids bring community movement got a awareness to the boost thanks to organizations in more than $18,000 Brandon,” said raised by the Kiwanian Donelle Kiwanis Club of White, who in her Greater Brandon at 2019 race for its 19th annual golf Honorary Mayor of tournament held at Brandon raised the Buckhorn money in part for Springs Golf and the Brandon Marie Gilmore, editor of the Osprey Country Club in Kiwanis Club. Observer, was a guest speaker at the Valrico. “Lee’s tournament Brandon Kiwanis Club on the November 7 meeting at the Golden Corral restaurant in focused on some The proceeds Brandon. will benefit the very different chariTerrific Kids student-recognition program ties, but they all have the common thread designed to promote character developof supporting children in our community.” ment, self-esteem and perseverance. Chad Curchin, of Cardinal Roofing, According to Kiwanian Janet Daigle, the said golf tournaments are “a fun way to Brandon club has Terrific Kids programs give back to the community and to help at 19 elementary schools, including six out with the kids.” Key Kiwanis sponsors schools that also have K-Kids Clubs. were Bank of Tampa, Cardinal Roofing, Moreover, she added, her club sponsors Chesapeake Utilities, Curry Law Group, Key Clubs at Armwood, Bloomingdale, Florida Public Utilities, Mosaic and Brandon and Riverview High Schools. Stephanie Antala, an Allstate Insurance As a federal tax-exempt organization, agent. Kiwanis puts its golf tournament proceeds An added boost came from golfer “back into the community,” said and Certified Public Accountant Craig Tournament Director Dustie Amatangelo, Minsky, who won $925 in the ball drop who reported the approximately $18,000 and donated the money back to his club, in proceeds. Kiwanis Club of Tampa, which that day In all, 16 Kiwanians and 117 golfers hosted its 51st annual Kiwanis Chicken participated in the October 17 event, “the BBQ fundraiser. largest field I’ve ever managed,” “It’s a double win,” Minsky said. “I’m Amatangelo added. This followed the B. excited that I won and I’m excited that I Lee Elam Charity Golf Classic held on can give the money to another Kiwanis October 10 at Buckhorn Springs, which foundation.” drew 125 golfers in support of BSAC, The Brandon Kiwanis Club meets at ECHO and the Outreach Clinic. 8 a.m. on Thursdays at the Golden Corral Golf tournaments “are a great way to in Brandon. Visit BrandonKiwanis.com.
By Kate Quesada
Expiration: 12.31.2019
Expiration: 12.31.2019
By Linda Chion Kenney
Expiration: 12.31.2019
December 2019
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Calling All Moms – MOPS
First and third Tuesday of the month Fishhawk Fellowship Church, 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia Coffee, brunch and free childcare All moms (including soon-to-be) welcome. Visit Fishhawk MOPS and MOMSnext on Facebook for info and updates. Email l.bellora@hotmail.com.
Master Gardener Library Programs: Growing Edible Mushrooms Wednesday, December 6; 6:30-8 p.m. Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico Master Gardener Hyacinth Burrowes will discuss growing mushrooms in and outdoors. Bring a plant or other gardening item for a fun drawing. For more info, call Richard Seedroff at 303-638-3917.
Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pets
Saturday, December 7; 11 a.m.-12 Noon p.m. Kim’s Natural Pet Foods, 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.
Free Seminar: Caring For Houseplants
Saturday, December 7 Kerby's Nursery and Landscaping, 2311 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner Learn how to care for houseplants, where to place them in your home and how to repot when needed. Call 685-3265 or visit www.kerbysnursery.com.
Plant City Social Dancing
Saturday, December 14 & 28; 6:30-9:30 p.m.; cost is $6 Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade Blvd., Plant City Dance to the music by DJ Ken Miller. Complementary dance lessons from 6-6:30 p.m. Beginners to advanced. No alcohol. Bring your own snacks and drinks. Visit strawberrysquaredancing.com.
Grey Matters Toastmasters
First and third Thursday of month; 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bloomingdale Library at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico Benefits of the club include confidence-building in public speaking, enhancement of leadership skills and unique, lively, stimulating discussions. Visit https://greymatters.toastmastersclubs.org/.
Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting
Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m. Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza, Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President, 767-1569.
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ngs, i t e e M lub C s n o i New L cker Country Cra ore… M & s a Chrisptilmed by MichellrveeCr.ocolemsanti, Com bse ospreyo @ e ll e h mic
Newly Formed Lions Club Serving The Valrico/Lithia Area All community service-minded men and women are welcome to attend the new Lions Club serving the Valrico and Lithia area. It meets on the first Wednesday of each month (unless otherwise stated due to a holiday). The next meeting, which will be at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Florida Properties Group on 3228 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 102 in Valrico (next to Harbor Freight Tools), is on December 4. Come at 6:30 p.m. to join in for pizza. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. All other meetings will be held at Grace United Methodist Church, located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia.
Spano Discusses Government & Leadership With Local High School Students
Rep. Ross Spano (Florida-15) recently visited four high schools in District 15 to speak about the inner workings of Congress and the impor-
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Volume 18, Issue 12
the-country. tance of leadership. South Bay Genealogical “High school Society Meeting students are on the cusp of On Tuesday, December 17, adulthood, and the South Bay Genealogical they’re at a Society will meet at the United prime age to Methodist Church in the Life engage in civic Enrichment Center (LEC) at duty and to 1210 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun show greater City Center. It begins at 10:30 leadership in their Rep. Ross Spano (Florida-15) visited four local high schools a.m. with a round table discusto speak about the inner workings of Congress and communities. These students sion. That will be followed by a leadership. are the next generation of sit-down luncheon at 12 Noon, Florida communities just before the American leaders, and investing in and then the main presentation by turn of the 20th century. During our youth is of the utmost importance guest speaker Annette Burke Lyttle at Christmas in the Country, guests can to me. I value their insights and 1 p.m. She will talk about timelines stroll through the four-acre complex questions and I take to heart their and how they can be used in your and experience seasonal décor, challenges. After all, one of these research. The cost is $15 per person music and traditions in 13 original students could very well be runfor lunch. For reservations and inforbuildings, including a train depot, his- mation, call Terri at 633-5172. Mail ning our country one day,” said toric homes, general store, post Spano. checks to SBGS, P.O. Box 5202, Sun office, blacksmith shop and The high school groups conCity Center, FL 33571 by Thursday, more. Guests can create holiday sisted of student leadership and December 5. keepsakes like salt dough ornaJROTC cadets from Bloomingdale ments, beeswax candles, sachets High School, Durant High School, Holiday Give Back At Serenity and cornucopias, as well as help with Meadows Strawberry Crest High School and the everyday chores like churning Rep. Spano’s own alma mater, Serenity Meadows is holding a butter and cleaning laundry with an Brandon High School. special community event to give help old-fashioned washboard. and hope to those in need this time Trail Dogs Bluegrass Band will Christmas In The Country of year. perform onstage throughout the day. How did rural Americans celeJoin in on Saturday, December 7 Admission to Christmas in the brate Christmas before malls, e-cards from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for activities, light Country is $10 for adults and $8 for and twinkly electric lights? refreshments, and remembrance seniors and children ages 6Experience a 19th century Florida ornaments. 12. Children 5 and under will be Christmas in the Country at Mildred One Blood's Big Red Bus will be admitted free. Parking is $8 per car W. and Doyle E. Carlton Jr. Cracker in attendance for a blood drive. and $14 per bus or RV. Country at the Florida State Decorate cards for residents of The The Florida State Fairgrounds is Fairgrounds. Christmas in the Bridges Assisted Living & Memory located at 4800 Hwy. 301 N. in Country will take place on Saturday, Care. Food will be also be collected Tampa. Please enter the Fairgrounds for ECHO of Riverview. December 14 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. via the Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Cracker Country is a living histoSerenity Meadows is located at entrance. For more information, visit ry museum that represents aspects 6919 Providence Rd. in Riverview. www.crackercountry.org/index.php/co For more information, call 279-1620. of home life, commerce and transme-visit/when-to-visit/christmas-inportation as it was in many rural Visit www.serenitymeadows.com/.
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December 2019
Page 7
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Upcoming Jingle Bell Run Benefits The Arthritis Foundation
By Tatiana Ortiz
Racers of all individuals of all ages. In ages will soon be fact, 300,000 children and gearing up in their more than 50 million favorite holiday cosAmericans are diagnosed tumes, along with lacwith it, according to the ing up their sneakers Arthritis Foundation. To as they aim to cross add, arthritis is considered the finish line during the leading cause of disthe Arthritis ability in America. Foundation’s annual A couple of families Jingle Bell Run on shared how the Arthritis Saturday, December Foundation assisted them 7, at George M. and their loved ones. Steinbrenner Field. For example, Tracey Aubriana Gonzalez with her dog, Buddy, who has been a great With this fundraising Corn’s two daughters sufsupport for her and stayed at her fer from rheumatoid arthrievent, individuals can side when she was unable to walk. participate in the 5K tis. She also has volununtimed, 5K chip-timed, a Kids teered with the Arthritis Foundation Run and a 1-Mile Fun Run or for more than 10 years. Walk. Besides the race, other “This foundation means so festivities will also be available, much to our family as it provided such as entertainment, a kids’ educational resources and more,” zone, food and beverages and Corn said. more. Carrie Shank also stated her Arthritis Foundation appreciation for the foundation, as Development Director of her daughter, Aubriana Gonzalez, Tampa Sherry Yagovane has suffered from JIA (Juvenile explained where 100 percent of these Idiopathic Arthritis) since the age of 2. proceeds go to. Gonzalez was selected to be this year’s “The funds raised will support our Jingle Bell Run Youth Honoree. Live Yes! Network events, educational “I am passionate about this cause, programs and send children to summer and as a parent I do not feel alone on this camp,” Yagovane said. “We also fund journey with the foundation being such a research for better treatments, cures and great educational tool for myself, family assist patients with access to treatments and friends,” Shank said. through advocacy on a state and federal To register for the walk, visit; level.” www.events.arthritis.org/index.cfm?fuseIn 1948, the Arthritis Foundation action=donorDrive.event&eventID=930. became established. Arthritis, also known For more information, contact as joint disease or joint pain, can affect Yagovane at 467-7520.
PLANTAR FASCIITIS & ACHILLES PAIN Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy are two of the most over-diagnosed conditions for anyone with foot or ankle pain. If you’re experiencing pain on the underside of your foot or on the back of your ankle, just above your heel, it’s likely that you’ve irritated the fascia or tendon through over-use or improper biomechanics. It often goes mis-treated and becomes a chronic complaint. Some of the most effective treatments are rehab, strengthening the muscles of the foot, and therapy. It is important to have your pain evaluated by a professional who understands the rehab necessary to correct it. It is not something that you want to attempt to self-diagnose or experiment with selfprescribed treatments such as kinesiotape and orthopedic braces that you are able to purchase over-the-counter. Long-term bracing can have detrimental effects on our biomechanics and can allow our muscles and surrounding tissues to get weak and become dependent on the brace for support, causing more issues. However, these tools can be effective under the care of a medical professional. WHAT IT ISN’T Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon pain can be frustrating to deal with due to its chronic nature and unresponsiveness to most other treatments. That doesn’t mean that you must live with the pain forever or even that it would take dozens of visits to correct. No matter how chronic the complaint, there is usually still improvement to be made, if not full resolution, however, the sooner you get a connective tissue problem like these evaluated and treated, the better the prognosis and the faster the recovery. WHAT IT IS Plantar fasciitis and Achilles pain are often mechanical in nature, meaning that it’s a result of how we move and use our body. Left alone to just “rest” or restricted to a splint or soft cast, the tendon and tissue will not be remodeled, will not heal on its own, and the pain will persist for long after the initial injury or incident. This is why seeking appropriate treatment is so important. At Motion ChiroTherapy, we tailor your rehab to restore full and pain-free ranges of motion and then strengthen the surrounding muscles and tissues to better tolerate load and stress.
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Page 8
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
rt, e c n o C iday l o H e l Chora r Wonderland Winte n & More… o Lunche santi, elle Cole
the Halls. Tickets are available at www.pccchorale.org, from any Chorale member or by calling 965-7213. Tickets may also be purchased at the h ic ed by M server.com il p Walden Lake Car m o C eyob e@ospr ll e Wash. Advance tickets h ic m are $12. Tickets at the door are $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12 and any student with a student ID.
Visit Santa In Bloomingdale On December 9
The Bloomingdale Homeowners Association is hosting its 33rd year with Santa on Sunday, December 8 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at The Village Early Learning Center on 3741 Canoga Park. Dr. in Brandon. There will be crafts and a balloon artist for the kids. Bring the kids and pets to meet Santa, along with a camera to take pictures. The event is free, but a food donation is requested, which will go to Wholesome Community Ministries in Wimauma. The ministry helps migrant families, many with small children. With the monetary donations, rice will be bought in bulk. It is a fun, low-key event where parents can bring kids that would not enjoy the loud mall environment.
Plant City Community Chorale Plans Joyful Noise Holiday Concert
The Plant City Community Chorale will present its annual holiday concert, Joyful Noise, on Saturday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. The concert, which is sponsored by Hopewell Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, will be performed at First United Methodist Church at 303 N. Evers St. in Plant City. The PCC Chorale will be joined by the Florida Southern Girls Chorus, an auditioned chorus for young women in grades 6-12 out of Lakeland and the surrounding Polk County. Both choirs, under the direction of Claudia Bolano Becerra, will perform holiday favorites such as Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Oh Holy Night and Deck
Volume 18, Issue 12
nominational luncheon and all ladies are welcome. There is no membership required. The cost for lunch is $15. First-time guests pay $10. Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for a reservation or for more information.
Kids Day Out At Campo Y
During the holidays, bring your kids to the Campo Y for an enriching experience while you are at work or out and about. Kids Congregation Beth Shalom Holds Bikes For Christ is hoping to provide bikes to low-income will enjoy team building families this holiday season. A bicycle can be a lifeline games, arts and crafts, Services And Monthly Torah providing access to work, school and community Study Group Meets STEM, high and low energy resource. Shabbat services are held on games and making new Michael. Bikes were also distributed Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Oneg, friends. The dates are Monday, in both Guatemala and Haiti this nosh and mingle follow. All are welDecember 23; Thursday-Friday, year. come. All services will stream live December 26-27; and Monday, For many low-income families, a and afterwards on its Facebook December 30 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. bicycle can be a lifeline, providing page: Congregation Beth Shalom of The cost for members is $35 per day access to work, school and communiBrandon. per child. Nonmembers pay $50 per ty resources that would otherwise be Taste of Tanakh is a monthly day per child. inaccessible. To donate, please Torah study group. It will discuss the Campo Y is located at 3414 visit www.bikes4christ.com/donations. current Torah portion on Saturday, Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. For more December 7 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon. information, contact Alison Gartner at Brandon Christian Women’s Members and nonmembers are welAlison.gartner@tampaymca.org or Connection’s To Hold Winter come. A light nosh call 684-1371. Wonderland Luncheon will be served. The Brandon Christian Women's Congregation Matilda The Musical At Music Connection is celebrating Christmas Beth Shalom is Showcase with a Winter Wonderland at its located at 706 Bryan Tickets available for Matilda The luncheon on Tuesday, December 10 Rd. in Brandon. Call Musical. Performances will take place at from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 681-6547 for more Music Showcase, 402 Oakfield The monthly luncheon information. Dr. in Brandon on Friday and is now held at Buckhorn Saturday, December 13 and 14 Springs Country Club, Bicycle Donations at 7 p.m. and Sunday, located at 2721 S. Miller Sought By Bikes December 15 at 2 p.m. Tickets Rd. in Valrico. For Christ cost $10 and are available at There will be raffles, Bikes For Christ faopa.org. Call 490-2787 for more infordoor prizes, Christmas music is ramping up for the mation. Visit FAOPA.org. and more surprises. This is a nondeholiday season. The nonprofit provides bicycles to those in need, but there is always a greater demand this time of year, and funds have been depleted. While there are a lot of other organizations that gift bicycles away only on Christmas, Bikes For Christ provides them to about 50 organizations in the Tampa Bay area all year long. Started in March 2016, Bikes For Christ has grown into the premier provider of transportation for the homeless and needy. The work takes them into parts of four counties to help partner agencies who are working directly with clients in need. Last year, not only did it gift bikes in the Bay area, it also transported approximately 80 bikes to the Panhandle to help ’Salvage Santa’ and those affected by Hurricane
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December 2019
Page 9
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
One of the most ecosystem. Their interesting, abundant omnivore diet conand misunderstood sists of small anicreatures in our area mals, fruits, plants is the opossum. The and carrion. This Virginia opossum, a helps to reduce native species, is extra insect and rodent special because they populations and the are North America’s spread of diseases only marsupial. by cleaning up Marsupials are mamA Virginia opossum carrying her young roadkill. Their on her back. mals that carry their attraction to carrion young in a pouch, such as the kangaroo is one reason we see many fall victim to and the koala. Despite their prehensile tail being hit by cars. and pointed nose, they are not in the Most do not realize that opossum rodent family, a common misconception. babies can survive almost 24 hours in Opossums are nocturnal creatures their deceased mama’s pouch. It is comand are the size of a house cat when fully mon amongst rescuers and wildlife afigrown. They are also nurturing mothers. cionados to check pouches to rescue any Opossums can frequently be seen carrypotential surviving orphans. Their abnoring their young on their back once they mally low body temperature also makes have emerged from the pouch. their risk of carrying rabies extremely Opossums are docile, nonaggressive ani- rare. mals. Fun fact: the opossum is immune to One of the most common questions most snake venoms and could potentially that I receive about these creatures is if be the key to future lifesaving antivenom they are a threat to children or pets. The treatments. Some tips: secure garbage simple answer is: no. While the adage cans and be sure to keep pet food remains true, that we should never indoors. Remember, these animals share approach, feed or harass wildlife, oposour space and provide beneficial servicsums are gentle creatures that have a es. The next time you happen upon one flight and flee response to danger. They of these amazing animals, take a have several defense mechanisms when moment to appreciate all that is awesome scared, including baring teeth and involabout the opossum. untarily playing ‘possum.’ They are tranAli Dunstan is currently Director of sient animals and opportunistic eaters FishHawk TNR, Inc. She has been that will not stay in the area for long. This working with animals for over 20 years is especially true if you have dogs, which and is a biologist specializing in animal behavior, marine and wildlife rescue, are terrifying to these gentle animals. rehabilitation and conservation. Opossums are very important to our
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Page 10
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
The Greatest Story Retold At Bell Shoals Light Has Come Service
By Amanda Boston
sion and can be purchased at the door or online at www.bellshoals.com or www.itickets.com. Doors open an hour before the start of the show. The show is approximately 75 minutes long. Sunday’s per-
Bell Shoals Baptist Church is known for its annual Christmas musical production, which has become a tradition for many who live in the Brandon community.
This holiday season, join Bell Shoals Baptist Church as it presents an encore production of Light Has Come. With performances on Friday, December 13 at 7 p.m. and on Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, December 15 at 6 p.m., guests have multiple opportunities to experience the greatest story ever told in a new and spectacular way. Light Has Come is a Bell Shoals Worship exclusive with original songs as well as traditional favorites. Jason Millsaps, the pastor of music and worship, and BJ Davis, the music director, collaborated on the project. Millsaps said, “The Bell Shoals Worship Choir debuted Light Has Comee last year as a unique Christmas worship experience.” He continued, “This has been an almost two-year project with writing, planning and updating. You’ll want to make this Christmas production a part of your family’s Christmas celebration.” Tickets are $10 for general admis-
formance will have deaf interpretation. “The story of Jesus is timeless and does not change,” said Davis. “But we have an opportunity today to tell His story in a relevant way that can speak to the culture and community that we live in.” Light Has Come is presented with a state-of-the-art 50-foot video wall, a five-person cast in the style of black box theatre, a 150-voice choir and a 30-member orchestra. The entire production employs about 250 volunteers when also including the integral behind-the-scenes operators such as tech support, wardrobe specialists and more. For more information about the show, please contact the church at 689-4229 or visit www.bellshoals.com/christmas. Bell Shoals Baptist Church is located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon.
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Volume 18, Issue 12
Barrington FFA Team Named National Champions At Convention
By Kate Quesada
their event. They had a goal and really went after it.” The team, made up of Kannon Gailey, Emma Dolan, Caroline Haxton, Lia McLaughlin, Mimi Walters, Peyton Haxton and Gabby Howell, all attended Barrington Middle School when they won the state championship, although some of the students have now moved on to ninth grade at Durant High Kannon Gailey, Emma Dolan, Caroline Haxton, School. Lia McLaughlin, Mimi Walters, Peyton Haxton According to Riverview resident and Gabby Howell, with their advisor Greg Bryan Dolan, whose daughter, Lehman, were recently named National Emma, participated on the team, Champions at the FFA National Convention. members learned skills that will A group of girls from Barrington help them throughout their lives and Middle School have a lot to be proud of future careers. this month. Seven student members of “Through their hard work they the school’s Future Farmers of America learned critical thinking, debate skills, (FFA) group brought home the title of public speaking and so much more,” said national champions after competing in Bryan. Indianapolis against middle and high During the contest, competitors were school teams from 40 states. asked to assume various officer duties, The students, who are now in eighth including president and vice president, and ninth grades, participated in the and were given one minute to prepare a Conduct of Chapter Meetings Leadership scenario that was evaluated by a team of Development Event (CDE) designed to judges. In the first round of the national introduce members to parliamentary procontest, they competed against 39 other cedure by conducting efficient meetings teams, mostly made up of high school and building communication skills. The students. They then went on to a round of group qualified to attend and compete at 12 and from that they were chosen to the National FFA Convention after winparticipate in the finals against teams ning the state championship over the from Washington, Missouri and summer. Oklahoma. “This is an amazing group of stuTo learn more about Future Farmers dents with a significant work ethic and of America, visit www.ffa.org. Barrington very high level of commitment,” said Middle School is located at 5925 Village Barrington’s FFA advisor, Greg Lehman. Center Dr. In Lithia and can be reached “These kids do a lot of work on their own at 657-7266. time and have learned the ins and outs of
December 2019
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Page 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
FishHawk Neighborhood Kids ‘Booed’ Neighbors With Food For Seeds Of Hope
Staff Report
‘Booing’ left food pantry your neighitems like peanut bors with butter and pasta on Halloween front porches, but treats and they still added décor has some fun become a fun Halloween treats to trend in get everyone in the FishHawk. sugar-fueled holiKids of all day spirit. ages love “It’s an exciting creeping up thing to get booed on their neighwith food and I love Natures Reserve Dr. in FishHawk West bors’ porches it because it goes enjoyed ‘booing’ their neighbors as they collected over 500 food items for Seeds of and surprising to a good cause” Hope during the Halloween season. their friends. said Cate Dobbins, They seem to have the most fun when age 11. “I like the thought that goes they get to ring the doorbell and run into it.” away. The kids on Natures Reserve Dr. But this past Halloween, one street collected more than 500 food pantry on Natures Reserve Dr. decided to items for Seeds of Hope, whose motto play a ‘Booed for Food’ game instead. is to “nourish hope among people in “It was mostly my idea because I need through the actions and help prowould rather spend money on food vided by our local students.” pantry items instead of candy for kids “We had so much fun supporting who go trick-or-treating a few weeks Seeds of Hope and enjoyed that our later anyway,” said Jennifer Bess. “I neighbors all came together to have started the game on October 1 and the fun and give to others. It was a great neighbors really caught the spirit and it lesson for our kids,” said FishHawk took off from there.” West resident Elisa Westlund. Instead of the usual candy, spider Hannah Bess, age 6, summed it rings, ghost stickers and light-up pump- up nicely when she said, “I love candy, kin necklaces, residents of Natures but I love to help people too.” Reserve Dr. in FishHawk West decided Seeds of Hope is a registered to change up this year’s game. With 501(c)(3) charitable organization which inspiration from Dylan Quesada’s 677 provides weekly food distribution every jars of peanut butter collected this Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at 710 E. summer for Seeds of Hope, the kids Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. For planned to ‘Boo with Food.’ Instead of more information, visit all Halloween-themed gifts, residents www.sohopefl.org.
SHOW & TELL | Thursday, December 12th at 3PM
December 2019
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Girl Scouts Flag A Veteran Project Shows Appreciation To Service Members
By Michelle Colesanti
This past year or pass Veterans Day it on by flagwas made more ging somespecial for some one new,“ local veterans said Debbie thanks to local Raises, Girl Scouts. The Fossil Valley Fossil Valley Girl Scout service unit coordinator. Local area Girl Scouts ‘flagged’ veterans this year to (more than 40 Nicole show their appreciation for their service. troops) encourClay said, aged the Scouts “Since to participate in its ‘Flag a FishHawk has a large Veteran’ campaign. amount of military resiArea Daisy, Brownie, dents, it was a nice way Junior, Cadette, Senior and for Girl Scouts to Ambassador Troops show appreciation to our requested and received kits veterans as well as a way which included signs with to unite the community stakes and 10 flags. At the for a common cause.” Scouts’ individual meetings, According to Clay’s the signs were personally daughter, Macey, who is decorated. a Cadette Scout, “My dad On Veterans Day, local The veterans were is in the military and I veteran Kevin Kelly was ‘flagged’ based on who the ‘flagged’ by local Girl Scouts, know how hard he has who wanted to show girls personally knew as well worked, and all that he appreciation for his service. has sacrificed to do his as word-of-mouth recommendations of veterans who lived nearby. job. I was excited to participate because Local recommendations were given on FishHawk is such a military-friendly comthe FishHawk Military Spouses page. munity. The signs are a neat way for us to The decorated signs, which were show our support, say thank you and accompanied by small American flags, unite all of us for a common cause.” were placed in front yards prior to One of the veterans noted that Veterans Day. watching these Girl Scouts put in a thankEighty veterans were flagged by 11 you sign with American flags surrounding troops. “While 80 signs were rolled out it out brought intense pride that this new this year, The Girl Scout community generation of Americans was taking their hopes to build on that with a new batch personal time to thank veterans. each year. Veterans are encouraged to For more information on the Fossil save the signs and put them out next Valley Girl Scouts, visit www.gswcf.org.
Sunday, December 15 Festival of Lessons and Carols
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
You Are Invited To Celebrate Chanukah At Community Events
By Michelle Colesanti
Chanukah begins make a difference in the on Sunday, December community while having a 22 and runs through good time and making December 30. The friends. Chabad Jewish A SouthShore Chanukah Discovery Center Celebration will feature offers great community menorah lighting, a pop-up events to help you celNew York deli and live music ebrate the holiday. on Monday, December 23 at According to 5 p.m. at the Mirabay Club in Rabbi Rubashkin, “At Apollo Beach. It will feature Chabad Jewish artisan small batch New York You are invited to participate in Discovery Center, our deli favorites and will be glatt events that will take place goal is to create oppor- around the local community to kosher. Enjoy live music by celebrate Chanukah. tunities for anyone to Boris of The Freilach Band. have a positive, uplifting and enjoyable Seating is limited. RSVP is required; the Jewish experience. We make Chanukah cost is $5 per person. To RSVP and to events in multiple locations to make it find the menu and food prices, please easier for people to attend, and the activi- visit jewishbrandon.com/NYDeli. ties of each event are based on what we A procession of cars with electric feel the local residents will enjoy most.� rooftop menorahs will drive around The fourth annual Chanukah Brandon to various homes on Thursday, Festival at Winthrop Town Centre will take December 26. A Parade of Light will bring place on Sunday, December 22 at 5 p.m., the joy of Chanukah making stops and the first night of Chanukah, featuring the kindle the menorah, sing Chanukah kindling of Brandon's tallest menorah, hot songs and share Chanukah treats. Visit latkes and chocolate gelt for everyone. paradeoflight.com for more information. New this year will be a Gelt A menorah lighting will take place at Launching Tournament, in which particiPark Square in Fishhawk Ranch on pants will create their own gelt launcher Sunday, December 29 at 5 p.m. and will and then participate in a head-to-head feature hot latkes, chocolate gelt and competition until a gelt launching champi- Chanukah music, plus a parachute gelt on is crowned. Admission is free. Kosher drop; chocolate gelt will rain down on the hot dogs and drinks will be for sale. crowd via parachutes. At a Chanukah New and gently used clothing, especandle making workshop, everyone will cially sweatshirts, jackets and sneakers, have the opportunity to make their own will be collected at the festival. The drive, Chanukah-shaped candle. spearheaded by members of the local For information, CTeen chapter, an international organizavisit jewishbrandon.com/Chanukah or call tion, gives Jewish teens the opportunity to 571-8100.
Volume 18, Issue 12
December 2019
Page 15
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Winter Village At Curtis Hixon Park Offers Outdoor Ice Skating & More
We Wish Everyone a
By Kathy L. Collins
The yearly tradiat 25 minutes past tion of outdoor ice the hour. skating has returned Roundtrip tickets to downtown Tampa. are $10. The holiThe Winter Village, day-themed featuring the Winter streetcar will run Village Shops, the on select Sundays Winter Village from November 24 Express and more through December will be open through 22. Sunday, January 5, This is a fun 2020. The Winter holiday activity for Ice skating, holiday shopping and more the whole family Village and ice skatare available at the Winter Village in Curtis ing will take place in and something the Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa now through Sunday, January 5, Collins family has 2020. which is situated enjoyed for severalong the Hillsborough River at 600 N. al years. Ashley Dr. in downtown Tampa. If you do not need to own skates, The Winter Village Shops, consistthen rent them. You can skate for 90 ing of 10 boutiques featuring local merminutes for just $15. Group rates are chants and purveyors, are creatively available. You can rent the rink for a priplaced in the area, making it an attracvate party by contacting Rachel tive holiday market. The pop-up holiday Radawec at rradawec@tampasdownshopping experience allows shoppers to town.com or call 221-3686. get an assortment of holiday decoraThe ice skating rink will be open tions and gifts. The unique holiday marMonday through Thursday from 4 to 9 ket is a fun way to spend the day along p.m. On Friday, the hours are 4 to 10 Tampa’s beautiful waterfront. Treat your- p.m. On Saturday, come out anytime self to a holiday delicacy while there at between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. and on the CafÊ at Winter Village. Sunday from 12 Noon to 9 p.m. During If you have not yet had a chance to school breaks, the rink is open from 10 ride the TECO Streetcar, then you will a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through not want to miss the Winter Village Saturday and 12 Noon to 9 p.m. on Express. You can hop on a holidaySunday. The rink will be open on themed streetcar at the downtown Christmas Eve from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Whiting Station beginning at 3:25 p.m. and on Christmas Day from 4 to 10 p.m. and travel to Ybor City. The one-hour Hours vary for the Winter Village roundtrip adventure features holiday Shops. sing-alongs, milk and cookies and more. For more information, please visit The streetcar takes the trip every hour www.wintervillagetampa.com.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Sage Offers Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaner With 15 Locations & 24-hour Lockers Coming
By Brad Stager
The upliftConvenience ed feeling and is another feature confidence that of Sage Cleaners comes from where customers wearing freshly benefit from laundered or advances in techdry-cleaned nology. attire is now Besides 15 easier than retail locations, ever to experi- Cohen Wills is the founder of Sage Cleaners, an from Plant City to ence with Sage environmentally-friendly dry cleaning and laundry Apollo Beach, business that offers free pickup and delivery. Cleaners ready customers can to take care of your clothes in a conventake care of their dry cleaning and launient, customer and environment-friendly dry needs by downloading the Sage manner. Cleaners app to their mobile phone and Sage provides its customers a arrange for free pickup and delivery of refreshed and longer-lasting wardrobe their clothes at home or at the growing with a dry cleaning process that the comnumber of Sage lockers sprouting up at pany says is an alternative to the petroleapartment communities and retail locaum-based methods predominating the tions. The app also helps customers track industry. and pay for their orders and keeps them Using a silicone-based cleaning solinformed about special deals. vent and process, trademarked as Green Sage’s retail locations and cleaning Earth, instead of conventional petroleum facility previously operated as Majik products means no chemical smell linger- Touch Cleaners for more than three ing on clothes that Sage dry-cleans. It decades before Wills bought them, and also avoids petrochemical contamination they are now transforming to the Sage of the environment that the dry cleaning brand. That means an experienced team industry is known for. According to Sage is caring for customers’ clothes, whether Cleaners Founder Cohen Wills, operating the request is for dry cleaning, laundering an environmentally conscious company is or routine maintenance and alterations. A the way he wants to do business. full range of services for garments requir“When it’s this easy to do things the ing special care such as leather, suede right way, why wouldn’t you?” Wills added and wedding gowns are also available. that research shows clothes cleaned with To learn more about the environmenthe Green Earth process last longer, protally-friendly cleaning services Sage viding more value to customers. Cleaners offers, call 654-2323 or visit “There’s no good reason to go anysagecleaners.com, where you can also where else when your clothes can last 40 find a link to download the company’s percent longer.” app.
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There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays
December 2019
Page 17
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Keep Your Eyes Out For Ground-Dwelling Burrowing Owls For Project Perch
By Sandy Townsend
Have you seen Reiss, a volunteer with owls that live on the Project Perch. Reiss, ground instead of who was active in trees? If so, Tampa South Florida’s Audubon Society Audubon’s Project wants to know. Perch, recently moved Tampa Audubon is to Hillsborough County looking for burrowing and is working closely owls for Project Perch. with the program here. The new program’s “We hope to goals are to protect the repeat their success in Tampa Audubon is looking for county’s existing poputhis county,” Reed burrowing owls for Project Perch in lation and support new said. “It’s tragic that hopes of protecting the county’s owls with artificial bur- existing population and support new our burrowing owl popowls with artificial burrows and rows and through pubulation has nearly disthrough public education. lic education. appeared. We need to Unlike most owls, burrowing owls live make room for wildlife.” in burrows in the ground. The small owls The decrease is attributed to many have long legs and short tails and spend factors, primarily the continued loss of most of their time on the ground or on low habitat due to development. Suitable perches. habitats that remain often aren’t mainThey live in open habitats with few tained properly or are threatened by trees and low vegetation, such as pashuman use and domesticated animals. tures and golf courses. “We hope to find suitable habitats on The Florida Fish and Wildlife county-owned environmental land for Commission has categorized the Florida installation of artificial burrows to support burrowing owl as a threatened species. the population,” Reed said. “In the 1980s, Hillsborough County “Even though much of their habitat is recorded more burrowing owls than any lost, there are still plenty of things resiother county in the nation during its dents can do to protect burrowing owls Christmas Bird Count,” said Valrico resiand all birds,” Reed said. dent Sandy Reed, who chairs Project “They can keep dogs on leashes and Perch. “During the 2018 Christmas Bird keep cats indoors. They can eliminate the Count, we found none.” use of pesticides and reduce the use of Project Perch was first developed by fertilizers, which can contaminate the the South Florida Audubon Society to environment and hurt all living things.” protect owls there. If you see a burrowing owl, please “Artificial burrows have been used call/text the burrowing owl hotline at 365successfully in South Florida to reinforce 7944 or email owls@tampaaudubon.org. existing colonies for 20 years,” said Chris Leave your name, date and the location
2019 Hillsborough County Fair Recycled Yard Art Contest—The Results Are In Twice each year, UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County sponsors a Recycled Yard Art Contest, one at the Hillsborough County Fair and one at the Florida State Fair. The purpose of the Recycled Yard Art Contest is to increase environmental awareness and encourage reuse/recycling of materials into yard art. The competition involved two and threedimensional artwork creations made from items already used for their original purposes. During the eight days of the 2019 Hillsborough County Fair, attendees voted for the People’s Choice Award on one of several entries submitted. All 2,372 votes have been tallied, and the People’s Choice Award winner is Jim Dreby for his 'Minion Riding a Scooter', which was created with a muffler pipe, freon jugs and a broken scooter. Andy Hamilton won the Judge’s Choice Award for adult submissions. His creation, 'Bedpan Bird', included a bedpan, ricer, marbles, rebar and horseshoes. Unfortunately, there was no middle school entry this
By Lisa Meredith and Lynn Barber
year, but the State Fair is coming soon. The Judge’s Choice Award for elementary school submissions winner was Maximus Clary. His entry, 'Wind Chime Planter', reused a colander, necklace, rope, broken wind chime, welcome Scooter sign and a planter. Alexa Weston’s 'Blue Heron' sculpture won the Judge’s Choice Award for high school submissions. She created her environmental artwork statement using plastic bags, boxes, bottle caps, containers, chicken Bed Pan Bird wire and sticks. All of the contest-winning entries will be on display at the UF/IFAS Extension Service, located at 5339 CR 579 in Seffner, until Sunday, December 8. You are welcome to stop by to view these creations, stroll through the Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden and see what else is Wind Chime Planter offered. You are challenged to put on your creativity hats now and consider submitting an entry for the Florida State Fair Recycled Yard Art Contest. Contact Lisa Meredith for more information about this upcoming contest at meredithL@hcflgov.net or Blue Heron 744-5519 ext. 54146.
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Page 18
Volume 18, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Area Hillsborough County School Projects Benefit From Referendum Dollars In the year since Hillsborough County voters approved a halfpenny sales tax to fund infrastructure projects in county schools, known as the Education Referendum, more than $80 million has been raised and Brandon-area students are already seeing the benefits. According to Chris Farkas, deputy superintendent of operations, Hillsborough County Public Schools has spent more than $66 million on 119 projects throughout the county. These projects include 24 air conditioning overhauls, 15 roofing projects, seven school athletic tracks, 17 playgrounds and nine play courts. “The projects are chosen based on the age of the school, the age of its equipment and the number of maintenance requisitions that come in each school year,” said Farkas. High schools in Eastern Hillsborough county that have already benefitted include Bloomingdale High School, where a new access control system was installed in April; Durant High School, which received a new roof, completed in three phases, and a new water tank; East Bay High School, where a new public
By Kate Quesada
billion in deferred maintenance and $1 billion needed to build new schools to handle growth. Without the referendum dollars, our students faced a future in aging, crowded classSchools throughout Eastern Hillsborough County have benefitted from the half-penny sales tax rooms,” said Farkas. “Our Education Referendum passed last year. district normally address system was where previously we would have needed received around $110 million per year in installed in the cafe; help two or three times a week. We are funding for repairs and construction. That and Riverview High School, which very grateful the community has shown amount never could have tackled the received a new HVAC system in July. such amazing support for our public backlog of overdue work, along with the “Our district maintains an ongoing schools.” new repair requests that are coming in five-year work plan and also tracks needs In addition, Bloomindale’s Alafia every day. Now, with the half-penny sales many years farther into the future,” said Elementary School received three new tax bringing in an estimated $131 million Farkas. “Schools receiving air conditionplaygrounds over the summer, a year for 10 years, we can take on the ing overhauls over the 10 years of the refSummerfield Elementary underwent a overdue work and have the $110 million erendum were the next 203 schools in partial roof replacement and Yates we normally receive each year available need of an overhaul based on system Elementary received a new roof. to help handle additional growth and new age, reliability and related factors. Other More than $20 million will also go problems that appear as our schools projects were selected similarly, based on toward new classroom technology. age.” need and available budget, with the intent “Florida ranks 44th in the United Projects and spending are reviewed of making a significant investment in States in K-12 education funding,” said by an independent Citizen Oversight every school.” Farkas. “The inadequate state funding, Committee, led by former State Lithia Spring Elementary School in combined with massive growth in Education Commissioner Betty Castor Valrico was one of the first locations to Hillsborough County during the 90s and and Sheriff Chad Chronister, before the receive an air conditioning overhaul, in early 2000s, led to our community’s shortwork is submitted to the school board for addition to two new playgrounds. fall.” final approval. “The air conditioner upgrades this The Education Referendum is To learn more about the Education past summer have been great for our stuexpected to generate between $1.2 and Referendum and to see a list of projects, dents and staff,” said Lithia Springs $1.3 billion over the next 10 years and the visit https://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us and Principal Kevin Martin. “Once the system district plans to invest a minimum of search for 'Citizen Oversight Committee was up and running we have not had to $500,000 in each school in the county. Project Updates'. make a single maintenance request “Last year, our district was facing $1
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Bulls e h T f gO Runnin racker Ballet c 5K Nut More… & lesanti, helle Co
Head Island, South Carolina in October. There were 148 Special Olympic athletes from 11 states and Costa Rica competing in skills, singles, doubles ic M y b m and unified doubles. ed co Compil spreyobserver. o Bryan and Ryan e@ michell Fisher, who have trained at Tennis For Fun at Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center since 2002, competed in the highest level of singles and won all of their matches, receiving gold medals. Bloomingdale 5K To Rodney Young has trained at Tennis Be Held January 18 For Fun at Brandon Sports and Aquatic The third annual Center since 2012. He competed in red Running of the Bulls 5K ball singles, winning all his matches and will be held on Saturday, receiving a gold medal. Young was January 18. The 5K awarded the ‘Sportsmanship Award’ starts at 8 a.m. at given to the athlete who most exemplifies Bloomingdale High School. Runners and walkers are welcome to the ideals of outstanding sportsmanship on the court with ethical behavior, fair play participate in the 5K. The race supports and integrity. Bloomingdale High School students and Bennett Hubbard trains at Tennis For all of the proceeds go directly to the Fun FishHawk and competed in individual Bloomingdale band and Bloomingdale tennis skills, earning a silver medal. athletic teams. Tennis For Fun is a free tennis clinic The 5K is chip-timed by Fitniche for special needs athletes. The program Events. Participants will receive a Dri-FIT began in 2000. The athletes compete in shirt and 5K finishers will earn a medal. Special Olympic competitions. The proRegistration is $30. Register at https://fitniche.com/event/running-of-thebulls-5k/. Find updates about the 5K on the Running of the Bulls 5K Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bloomingdalebulls5k/.
gram is run entirely by volunteers. Tennis For Fun has four locations in Hillsborough County. Volunteers are needed; no tennis experience is necessary, just the desire to help others and have fun. For more information, call Judy at 417-3751 or visit tennisforfun.org.
The Nutcracker Ballet
Theatre Arts and Dance Alliance, in collaboration with Tampa Bay Dance Theatre, announced its annual presentation of The Nutcracker, featuring a cast of 100 aspiring dancers and actors, including some of our favorite educators from area schools like Bevis Elementary, FishHawk Creek Elementary and Newsome High School. Two matinee performances will be held on Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22 at Howard W.
Blake High School at 3 p.m. Pre-sale ticket prices are $12 for students and seniors, $15 for adults and $25 for premium seating. Tickets may be purchased at the TADA office, online or at the door on the day of the performance. Tickets purchased at the door will be general admission for $20 and premium seating for $30. A group discount are available for 15 or more people. All other tickets are available through your favorite performers. For more information or tickets, visit www.tadance.com or call 571-0901.
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Page 20
Volume 18, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Life Story Writing Classes Help Preserve Your Stories For Future Generations
By Michelle Colesanti
You may not This year, you think that your life can take the classes stories are intereither on a esting enough, but Wednesdays at 10:30 we all have tales a.m. (January 29to share with April 1, 2020) or future generations. Fridays at 1:30 p.m. For the 14th (January 31-April year, The 3, 2020). Bloomingdale Each class Learn to capture your life Writer’s meets for about stories on paper for Connection (BWC) two and a half future generations. will offer a 10-week hours each week Life Story Writing (LSW) class at the and is appropriate Bloomingdale Regional Library. It is free for all skill levels and all ages. Many peoto participate and the class is funded by ple find the course to be therapeutic the Friends of the Library. because the classes invite them to reflect Upon completion of the course, each on their lives and get new perspectives. person will have written at least nine new A different theme is visited each life stories and will have an organized life week. Hands-on activities and group story writing portfolio to which you may interaction help participants to dig deeper continue to add. The classes are for all into buried memories. skill levels. Susana Mueller took the class four According to Val Perry, who has years ago and said, “The 10-week Life coordinated these classes almost from Story Writing course at the Bloomingdale the beginning, “Many times I have been Library taught me how to tell my life stotold by participants that taking the life writ- ries in a series of vignettes, or short stoing class has changed their lives in a pos- ries. The class was a springboard to foritive way. Through writing short stories matting and publishing Now I Swim, a every week, younger people often find a book about how I overcame the fear of new life direction, while retired people water and became a swim instructor.” learn an appreciation for their lives.” According to Perry, “A large network Everyone develops an increased of life writers and many friendships have interest in their family history. The writing formed over the 14 years this course has coaches are trained to help writers at all been offered thanks to the sponsorship skill levels. The goal of a class participant of the Friends of the Bloomingdale might be to just leave a legacy of their Regional Library.” lives for their families, while others may For more, contact Perry at wish to rekindle their past enjoyment of LifeWritersBloom@msn.com or pick up a writing with a goal of publishing a book. brochure in the foyer of the library.
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December 2019
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 21
Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Offers Expert Financial Advice
By Michelle Caceres
Dining out can saved for retirement be expensive, but needs and goals? one dinner with Need help underfriends actually standing recent saved FishHawk reschanges to couples’ ident Patti Roberts a Social Security fortune. claiming strategies? That’s because Have sufficient life the topic of financial insurance coverage? planning came up Howie and Mitchell and her friend, walk their clients Nancy Spooner, through each aspect spoke highly of of their financial plan. Howie and Mitchell The go-to comHowie and Mitchell Angeloni at Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Angeloni at Angeloni pany for a TripTik to Tax Advisory Group. What Spooner didn’t help map out a long road trip is AAA. know was that Roberts and her husband Angeloni Tax Advisory Group is like the were about to retire and were facing the AAA of the finance world as it maps out daunting task of electing how to withdraw its clients’ retirement journeys, helping their company pension distributions. them avoid the pitfalls and dangers that “I hadn’t told anyone that we were can threaten a comfortable retirement. struggling to select the best pension “Most of my clients only retire once, option for us and it was like a sign when but I’ve been helping clients retire sucshe mentioned the company that could cessfully for 16 years,” said Howie. help us with that decision,” said Roberts. Located at 11938 Balm Riverview She and her husband met with the Rd. in Riverview, Angeloni Tax Advisory father/son team, who walked them Group’s services include asset managethrough their options and which one best ment, estate and financial planning, suited their situation. investment management, life insurance, “I love how they explained everything retirement financial planning and tax in language that made it easy for somepreparation. From pre-retirement through one without a financial background to retirement to full estate and tax planning, understand and also I really felt like they it can resolve and/or plan around almost had our best interest at heart,” she said. any financial, insurance or estate tax The Angelonis together have their issue that may be on the horizon. best interests at heart. As a fiduciary, Its office hours are Monday to Friday Howie is required to always place his from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment. clients’ interests above his own. Each For more information, visit client receives a detailed review of their www.angelonitax.com or call 813-626overall financial situation. Have enough 7575 to schedule a free consultation.
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Page 22
Volume 18, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Marlin James Airconditioning And Heating Celebrating 25 Years
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Marlin James Air Conditioning and Heating has been providing top-of-the-line service to customers throughout Hillsborough County and the surrounding Tampa Bay area for 25 years. Owners Scott and Glenda Clark attribute much of their business success to their mission statement: “To serve all with integrity while striving for excellence.” This familyowned and operated business has a long history of exceeding customers’ expectations with integrity, honesty and quality work. Glenda was born and lived in Plant City until she was 12 years old, and then her father’s job took the family to Houston, Texas. Eventually Glenda and Scott (the “Marlin” in Marlin James) met in Houston and have now been married for more than 37 years. The entire family moved back to the Brandon area in 1984. “Both my husband and father, Red (Red was the ‘James’ of Marlin James), worked in the air conditioning business here for 10 years before deciding to start their own company,” said Glenda. “My father’s only stipulation was that I do the accounting.” When Red decided to retire in 2006,
Glenda purchased his half of Marlin James. This family-owned business, along with its employees, focuses everyday on integrity and accountability. “Our employees also have the authority to use WWRD (What Would Red Do) while servicing our customers,” said Glenda. “This allows them to make decisions based on what should be done to ensure 100 percent satisfaction.” Glenda also explained what sets them apart from their competition is that they don’t use sub-contractors. “Our service and install technicians are not paid on commission nor do they have a quota,” said Glenda, “which is different from most companies. We are of the belief that this insures there is no reason to try and sell something that the customer does not need.” Marlin James Air Conditioning and Heating was founded on an incredible combination of loyalty, integrity and pride. Positive leadership along with devoted employees and customers are testimony to 25 years of successful business for Marlin James in this community. For more information, call 689-0817 or visit www.marlinjames.com.
Kettle Kid Is Local Popcorn Entrepreneur By Kate Quesada
Bell Creek GMOs or additives Middle School and is made from student Avery only natural ingreCarter has a dients. unique way to “Everyone is spend his free looking for healthitime. The 13er ways to eat and year-old Lithia enjoy food, so he resident recentwas really excited ly started his when he found the own business perfect recipe,” making and said Zakia, who selling kettle described her son corn and other as a young entreThirteen-year-old Lithia resident Avery Carter types of poprecently started The Kettle Kid, selling popcorn preneur. online and at local events. corn which he Avery came up produces in a commercial kitchen in with the name for his business while Tampa. joking around with his 14-year-old brothAvery began his business, The er, Zachary Carter, a freshman at Kettle Kid, last summer and is now sellBloomingdale High School. ing corn online and at local events, “It is funny because even his friends including the FishHawk Famers’ Market at school have started calling him Kettle which takes place at Park Square once Kid all the time now,” said Zakia. a month. In addition to the kettle corn, Avery According to his mom, Zakia Carter, has developed other flavors of popcorn Avery has always loved cooking but and offers a featured flavor every month was inspired to start The Kettle Kid on the company’s website. This month, when he was diagnosed with a series of the flavor is caramel. He spends at least allergies last year that stopped him from four hours three times a week at the eating many of the treats he previously kitchen working on and making the popenjoyed. corn. “He is a foodie and he was frustratWhen he is not working on his busied when he couldn’t eat a lot of his ness, Avery enjoys taking classes at favorites,” said Zakia. “He started exper- The Rolling Pin in Brandon and watchimenting in the kitchen and quickly pering shows on the Food Network. fected a recipe for kettle corn that Check out The Kettle Kid on the first inspired him to start his own business Sunday of each month from 9 a.m. to 2 so others could enjoy it too.” p.m. at the FishHawk Farmers’ Market The popcorn, which is produced in located in the community’s Park Square. a space the family leases from a comTo order from The Kettle Kid online, visit mercial kitchen in Tampa, contains no www.thekettlekid.com.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 23
Page 24
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/FishHawk
In This Section
HOLIDAY HOME TOUR....................PG 27 FLORIDA ORCHESTRA .....................PG 31 SPORTS.......................................PG34‐35 WHERE TO SEE LIGHTS ........................36 December 2019
Volume 18, Issue 12
CHRISTMASTOWN..........................PG 39
Ph: 657-2418
Joana Springstead Selected As New Financial Advisor Edward Jones FishHawk Ranch Branch
The financial services firm Edward Jones has selected Joanna Springstead as its new financial advisor for the FishHawk Ranch branch office located at 16132 Churchview Dr., Joanna Springstead is the new financial advisor for Ste. 201 in Edward Jones’ FishHawk Dr. Justin Scott, DC, Lithia. Springstead transferred Ranch branch. CSCS. to FishHawk from an Edward Jones office in Valrico. Dr. Justin Scott, DC, CSCS Springstead said she is enthusias- Completes Certification In tic about taking over the branch office. Functional Medicine "I joined this firm because I was Dr. Justin Scott, DC of impressed with its commitment to indi- Lithia/Tampa recently completed the vidual investors," she said. "Now I’m one-year ADAPT Practitioner Training looking forward to meeting with the Program through Kresser Institute for individuals here to help them meet Functional and Evolutionary Medicine their financial goals." and continues to treat Her professional patients utilizing functionexperience includes al medicine at executive level posiSTRONGLIFE Functional tions at JPMorgan Medicine & Weight Loss. Chase and the Federal Dr. Scott has helped Reserve Bank of Chicago. patients treat a wide variety of health Laura Schumaker, who has served concerns, including: fatigue, digestive as branch office administrator since problems and food intolerances, 2006, said, "I am very excited about autoimmune diseases, hypothyroidism, working with Springstead." diabetes/blood sugar issues, Springstead and Laura Schumaker stress/adrenal dysfunction, can be reached at 657-2078, or visit cognitive/mood and behavioral issues, www.edwardjones.com/joanna-springweight gain and metabolic dysfunction, stead.
A ribbon-cutting for Supreme International USA.
inflammation, difficulty with sleeping, hormone imbalances and high cholesterol. Functional medicine is a new model of medicine that is neither ‘conventional’ nor ‘alternative.’ It is a combination of the best elements of both, and it represents the future of medicine. Functional medicine addresses symptoms by focusing on the underlying cause of the problem, which leads to more profound and longer-lasting results. STRONGLIFE Functional Medicine & Weight Loss is located at 5618 Fishhawk Crossing Blvd. in Lithia. Call 655-5433 or visit www.stronglifefunctionalmedicine.com.
Supreme International USA Ribbon-Cutting
Supreme International USA celebrated a ribbon-cutting with the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce in October. It is a one-stop shop for kitchen, bath and floors featuring 100 percent
wood cabinets for kitchens and baths, granite and quartz countertops, porcelain and marble tiles and carpets. Supreme International is a direct importer of granite and marble with cutting edge machinery for fine fabrication of countertops. It is located at 7501 E. Adamo Dr. in Tampa. For more information, call 2523712 or visit https://supremefl.com.
Ed Morse Automotive Group Names Brian Danahy As General Manager Three Dealerships
The Ed Morse Automotive Group proudly announced that automotive veteran Brian Danahy has been named general manager for three of its dealerships, Ed Morse Brandon Cadillac, Brandon Auto Mall Fiat by Ed Morse and Brandon Auto Mall Alfa Romeo by Ed Morse. Danahy has been with Ed Morse Automotive Group for more than 30 years and will also remain as general manager of its successful Ed Morse Cadillac dealership in Tampa. “Brian has been an asset for our organization for decades, and we are pleased that he will expand his leadership role with these new GM positions. He will continue our tradition of provid-
Continued On Next Page
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Volume 18, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Business Column Continued...................
By Michelle Colesanti
ing an incredible who are apprehensive about experience for our getting care because of the customers and twisting, turning, popping and employees,” said cracking that is often associTeddy Morse, ated with traditional chirochairman and CEO practic adjustments. Through of Ed Morse specialized techniques like Automotive Group. Prone Specific and Activator, Danahy started patients can see amazing at the company at results without the typical jarage 14, working in ring associated with chirothe parts departpractic adjustments. Prone ment. His 30 plus Specific uses light and gentle career climb at Ed manipulations to adjust your Morse Automotive Brian Danahy is the new gen- spine without twisting. For eral manager of three local Ed many patients, Dr. Stewart Group encomMorse dealerships. passed working in will use traction tables as almost every part of their treatments. aspect of the dealerships, including These tables help stabilize many conpaint, service, collision, sales, manditions and offer further relief. agement and in 2011 became the GM The goal is to help as many famiof Ed Morse Cadillac Tampa. As GM of lies as possible in the surrounding this location, they were named Dealer area, believing that everyone has the of the Year three times. right to live a healthy life. Stewart Danahy will oversee every aspect Chiropractic works hard to provide a of the dealership, including sales, personalized approach to quality care, service, new and used cars, employhelping you to achieve and maintain ees and customer service. your good health. Ed Morse Cadillac Brandon is Stewart Chiropractic is located in located at 11020 Causeway Blvd. in the Brandon Retail & Office Center at Brandon, and Ed Morse Auto Mall Alfa 220 W. Brandon Blvd. For more inforRomeo and FIAT are at 11024 mation about Dr. Stewart and the Causeway Blvd. Visit practice, visit www.edmorsecadillacbrandon.com. www.DrNicoleStewart.com.
RibbonCutting Celebrates Grand Opening Of Gentle Chiropractic Care
Stewart Chiropractic & Wellness celebrated its official A ribbon-cutting for Stewart Chiropractic & Wellness was recently grand opening in held with the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. October. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held alongside the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Campo Family YMCA Welcomes New Advisory Board Members Commerce. Stewart Chiropractic & Wellness The Campo Family YMCA is specializes in gentle care for the pleased to welcome 10 new members entire family. It is a Christian-driven to its advisory board. The Campo practice that offers a boutique experiFamily YMCA Advisory Board memence, at affordable prices. With spebers are actively involved in raising cialized techniques, a high level of funds, increasing community awareservice and expertise on specific conness, evaluating measurement tools ditions and difficult cases, the practice and outcomes and creating partnerstrives to maintain top-quality care ships that further the success of the with a focus on the patient experiCampo Y’s cause-driven work. ence. New board members Stewart Chiropractic's techniques include: Christina Campbell, business offer an effective alternative for those development manager for Gray Plant
EXPIRES: 12/31/19
Mooty; Jenn Cirrito, senior vice president of business operations for Kforce, Inc.; Jorgie Franks-Bell, outsourced sales, direct and indirect marketing, sales strategist, author and sales trainer for Jorgie Inc.; Lennise Germany, CEO and chef at Livy O's Catering Co.; Dan Henzler, real estate agent for Keller Williams; Nancy Monsipapa, realtor for Nail the Sale Properties; Rick Monsipapa, realtor for Nail the Sale Properties; Anne Nymark, a philanthropic staple in the Greater Brandon community serving on multiple nonprofit boards, including the American Heart Society, American Cancer Society, The Brandon Outreach Clinic, Center Place and more; Jessica Schwaller, senior director of performance and development for Kforce; and Anita Silverstein, vice president for CenterState Bank, N.A of Florida. For more information on the Campo Family YMCA, visit www.tampaymca.org/locations/valrico-fl-campoymca.
Give The Gift Of Love To A Deserving Senior This Holiday Season
Home Instead Senior Care® is once again offering the local community a chance to spread joy to local seniors. Through the Be a Santa to a Senior® program, community members can give a senior a special holiday gift. Since the program’s inception in 2003, the Be a Santa to a Senior program has mobilized more than 60,000 volunteers, provided approximately 1.2 million gifts and brightened the season for
more than 700,000 deserving seniors nationwide. “The Be a Santa to a Senior program is all about including seniors in the joy of the holiday season,” said Kristi Campbell, owner of the Home Instead Senior Care offices in Tampa and Brandon, two of 15 offices serving the Gulf Coast. “A simple gift shows them they are a loved and vital member of our community.” Be a Santa to a Senior is a true community program with generous support from local businesses, nonprofit organizations, retailers, numerous volunteers and members of the community. The Home Instead Senior Care offices serving Tampa and Brandon have partnered with area businesses and organizations to help with gift collection and distribution. It’s easy to help. Visit one of the participating locations and look for the Be a Santa to a Senior tree on display through Monday, December 16. Each tree will be decorated with ornaments featuring seniors’ first names and gift suggestions. Holiday shoppers can choose an ornament, buy the requested gift and return it to the store with the ornament attached. There’s no need to worry about wrapping—community volunteers and program partners will wrap and deliver the gifts to local seniors in time for the holidays. Be a Santa to a Senior trees can be found at Beall’s Outlet Stores and Shapes Fitness. For more information about the program, visit BeASantaToASenior.com or call 684-1972. For more information about how you can help seniors in your community, visit imreadytocare.com.
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December 2019
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
The GFWC Brandon Service League Presents Its Annual Holiday Home Tour
By Kathy L. Collins
For more This year’s than 25 years, homes are located the GFWC throughout the area. Brandon Service There are two within League has been River Hills and one hosting a Holiday is in Magnificent Home Tour. This Magnolia Place. year’s tour will be Together, they feaheld on Saturday, ture over 40 trees of December 14. varying sizes. For the first time Tickets to the Come out and tour three beautifully deco- Holiday Home Tour in the event’s rated homes, each with a unique theme, history, it will be are just $20 each at the Annual GFWC Brandon Service held in the (cash or check). You League’s Holiday Home Tour. evening from 4 to 8 p.m. Not only will you can purchase them at the Green get the opportunity to see several beautiBoutique at 1032 Bloomingdale Ave. in fully decorated homes adorned with twin- Valrico, Four Paws Veterinary Hospital at kling lights and holiday finery, but attend9430 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview, ing the Holiday Home Tour is a great way Julie’s Closet at 720 W. Robertson St. in to support a local organization that Brandon and at Plummer’s Family serves the Greater Brandon area. Restaurant at 11758 E. Dr. Martin Luther This year’s tour will showcase three King, Jr. Blvd. in Seffner. You can also local homes. Judy Darsey, president of purchase them online at www.gfwcbranthe GFWC Brandon Service League, donserviceleague.org. There is a $1 consaid, “You will not want to miss this one. venience fee per ticket. Once again, three homeowners have Please note that you must have your opened their hearts and their homes to ticket in order to gain access to the support this event that gives 100 percent homes in River Hills, which is located off of the funds raised back to local nonprofof Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. its and six area high school art departMagnificent Magnolia Place is located in ments.” the Riverview area. Darsey added, “Whether you start at The GFWC Brandon Service League 4 p.m. and see the homes in daylight or is accepting new members. The GFWC come after 6 p.m. and see the homes Brandon Service League meets on the with their spectacular lights on, you have second Thursday of the month from a chance to see what three homeowners September through May (not including love about decorating for Christmas. December). They each have their own individual For more information, please visit style.” www.gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Newsome Freshman Ricky Bonebrake Brings Buzz To The Program
By Nick Nahas
Newsome always smiling and freshman hockhaving fun, and ey player Ricky he’s very competiBonebrake has tive and he just a lot of potential, enjoys playing." and no, his last Bonebrake name isn’t a also plays for the nickname based Brandon Junior on the boneBulls and the crushing hits that Lightning Hockey he delivers on League EDP. The the ice. defenseman has Bonebrake played hockey for Photos courtesy of Lisa Bonebrake seven years now. is one of five Bonebrake waits for the pass. freshmen that He gained interest made the Newsome varsity team and he in the sport when his dad took him to a stands out among them. He is not only a Lightning game. standout on his own team, he’s a stand“I went and watched the game and it out in the Lightning High School Hockey was fast and exciting, so when we came League as well. Throughout the season home I said that I wanted to play hockey,” the league highlights players, and said Bonebrake. Bonebrake was chosen over hundreds of His favorite team is the Winnipeg players across multiple divisions to be Jets, and the player that he models his featured in a story for game after is Sabres’ defensemen LightningHighSchoolHockeyLeague.com. Rasmus Dhalin. His other hobbies “With his strength, size and skill, he include playing chess and basketball. stands out being just a freshman,” said Bonebrake thinks that playing basketball Newsome head hockey coach and head can help him cross-train and improve his coach of the Brandon Junior Bulls 14U speed and agility. AA David Collins. Bonebrake wants to play hockey as Collins is impressed with long as he can. His ultimate goal is to Bonebrake’s ability as an offensive play in college or Juniors. Michigan is his defensemen, his strength and his powerdream school. He also hopes the club ful shot. Collins is excited to see how sport will become a designated varsity Bonebrake progresses and how he sport within the next year as well. As for develops in the next four years with his now, the freshman is focused on bringing potential. Newsome back to the playoffs. “I want to “His work ethic is very good and his help win another state championship,” attitude is excellent,” said Collins. “He’s said Bonebrake.
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Page 29
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Kings Avenue Baptist Continues Walk Thru Bethlehem Christmas Tradition
By Amanda Boston
It takes a vila group number lage to make a viland can track their lage. For 33 years, wait time online— Kings Avenue providing guests Baptist Church has with the option to presented Walk leave and come Thru Bethlehem back. For those (WTB), an interacwaiting on the tive ‘town of premises, the Bethlehem’ dating sanctuary will have back to the time refreshments for when Jesus was purchase born. The 20,000 and free Walk Thru Bethlehem is a gift sq. ft. village is entertainto community that is combrought to life by ment. pletely volunteer-based and reliant on donations. volunteer actors Musical acts and animals. from schools WTB is a free and local community event that bands such takes place nightly as Crosswalk, Bound No from Thursday, More, Shepherd's View December 5 to and Band Of Brothers Sunday, December 8. are scheduled to perThe realistic scenes of form. Roman guards and vilWTB has grown into lagers dramatize the a community tradition— events leading up to not only for the visiting the birth of Jesus so families but for the volunthat visitors can experiteers. Reid Van Emburgh ence the true meaning recently moved to of Christmas. Missouri but planned his As visitors traverse Walk Thru To pull off a provacation to coincide with Bethlehem, Roman guards and Jewish vendors interact with them WTB, enabling him to duction of this magnito provide a realistic atmosphere tude, it takes 225 volvolunteer. He expressed of Bethlehem. unteers each evening the joy he receives from and about 400 volunteers throughout the playing the role of a tax collector and year. Volunteers are not limited to Kings engaging with the visitors. Avenue church members—many local “I’ve been volunteering for quite a few community members and students paryears, and I keep coming back each year. ticipate. I love that [WTB] brings people together “We are a community service hours to learn about God, Jesus, our church event that counts for Bright Futures and and, hopefully, they make a decision to clubs,” said Committee Chairperson follow God,” said Van Emburgh. Tracy Hoyt. “We place our volunteers WTB requires many hands, but it where they are most comfortable, also needs funds to keep the town whether it is acting, working with animals scenes safe. Due to the elements and or registering guests. We also need help years of use, many of the town scenes before and after the event.” have to be rebuilt to maintain its integrity Emma Hoyt (14), the daughter of and safety. Hoyt is asking for monetary Tracy Hoyt, has been an actor for the donations or gift cards from Home Depot past five years. She said, “When you or Lowes. Those who wish to donate can work Walk Thru Bethlehem, you really do so at the event or visit www.bethekfeel like a part of a community. Like one ingsavenue.com. To get involved or big happy family sharing the word of donate, contact Tracy Hoyt at God." wtb@bethekingavenue.com. The community tradition attracts WTB takes place on December 5 more than 6,000 people over the four-day from 6:30-9:30 p.m., December 6 from event—with Friday and Saturday nights 6:30-10 p.m., December 7 from 4-10 p.m. producing the largest crowds. The guided and December 8 from 4-9 p.m. The walk admits groups of 15 at a time. You church is located at 2602 S. Kings Ave. in can expect to see visitors lining up 30 Brandon. More information and wait times minutes before registration. can be found at www.walkthrubethleDuring registration, visitors are given hem.com.
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Page 30
Volume 18, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio Delivers A Knockout Punch Last year, we which keeps up with test drove the 2.0the Alfa Romeo tradiliter inline-4 turtion of a triangular bocharged Alfa grille with functional Romeo Stelvio SUV air intakes hosting with 280 horsepower, the Italian automakplentiful to cruise the er’s emblem while highway or merge flanked by horizontal into peak-hour traffic. bi-xenon projector But this year, the headlights. The automaker had an handy interior is STELVIO QUADRIFOGLIO Wheelbase: 111 inches even bigger surprise for us done nicely with a robust Length: 185.1 inches when it dispatched over the manual tilt/telescopic Weight: 4,360 pounds Quadrifoglio trim of the midsteering column for a Fuel capacity: 16.9 gallons size luxury ride. And this rock-solid grasp. Also City: 17 mpg Highway: 23 mpg version was equipped with worth a mention is the Tow capacity: 3,000 pounds 7.7-inch instrument cluster a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V-6 Base price: $80,245 engine that packed 505 hp of the 200 mph analog Price as tested: $88,540 @ 6500 rpm and 443 Web site: www.alfaromeo.com speedometer and pounds-feet of torque @ tachometer gauges and 5500 rpm. The all-wheel-drive Stelvio can digital driver information center. Leather take off from 0 to 60 mph in just around and carbon fiber trim is sprinkled through3.3 seconds with top speed of 175 mph. out to lend classiness. The 14-way power Mated to an 8-speed auto gearbox, front leather seats are not just plush but the Quadrifoglio-tuned double-wishbone also comfy. Other particulars include dual front and an Alfa-link design rear suspen- auto a/c, steering wheel aluminum padsion effectively eliminate sharp bumps on dle shifters, power lift gate, Harmon the road and reduce body roll. Providing Kardon audio with 14-speaker, 900-watt a positive on-center response is the varisound system, aluminum sport able electric assist steering. Braking is pedals/footrest, and the 8.8-inch handled skillfully by massive and powernav/audio/phone display as well as a ful 14.2-inch front and 13.8-inch rear dual-pane sunroof. Brembo vented rotors. The 20-inch bright The Stelvio Quadrifoglio boasts offalloy wheels come shod with 255/45 up and on-road capabilities in a nimble, luxufront and 235/40 at the rear. The “dna” ry-packed ride, ensuring safety for occumodes available stand for dynamic, natu- pants under inclement weather and road ral, advanced efficiency and race. conditions. Visit www.alfaromeousaofKudos go to the exterior styling, brandon.com/.
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December 2019
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Keep Christmas Classical With The Florida Orchestra Santa on the beach? Lighted palm trees? Not this year. When you’re longing for a classic Christmas, there’s no place like The Florida Orchestra, sparkling with holiday magic that you can’t find at the mall. Holiday Pops: The annual favorite is a jolly good time for the whole family. This year’s concert is a sleigh-load of classics you know and love, including Sleigh Ride, The Nutcracker, Winter Wonderland and a holiday sing-along. The concerts are Friday to Sunday, December 13-15 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, with two matinees that won’t spoil anyone’s bedtime. Daniel Black conducts with Vanessa Thomas on vocals. Tickets start at $18 in the Raymond James Pops series. Handel’s Messiah: For nearly 300 years, one work has brought audiences to their feet in the ultimate celebration of holiday joy: Handel’s Messiah, with its divine ‘Hallelujah’ chorus. Michael Francis leads the orchestra and The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay in three special performances, which will take place at Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz (Thursday, December 19), the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg
By Kelly Smith
(Friday, December 20) and Indian Rocks Baptist Church (Sunday, December 21). Tickets start at $18 at the Mahaffey and $30 for general admission at the churches. Holiday Brass: TFO’s incomparable brass and percussion sections perform festive favorites in the exquisitely renovated historic Tampa Theatre. Daniel Black conducts arrangements for brass and percussion ensemble, including Sleigh Ride, Ave Maria, The Nutcracker, Messiah’s ‘Hallelujah’ Chorus’ and classic carols. This will take place on Thursday, December 19 at 7 p.m.; $20 for general admission. For details and tickets, visit FloridaOrchestra.org.
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Volume 18, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
sciasci Mr. MiG rade 9th h me Hig Newso ol Scho
d By
Sponsore
Signature Wade
Mr. Michael Misocniathsci Teacher Of The M
come a teacher? Why did you decide to be ning that I really enjoyed explai In high school I realized my in who were struggling concepts to other students erers learn new ideas and ov math classes. Helping oth se sen ge gle with gives me a hu come concepts they strug of accomplishment.
a teacher? What is a goal of yours as I try to always be approach en wh nts de stu my able and available to help them become lp he to pe ho o als I needed. through problems more self-reliant to work ceed in the so they are prepared to suc to make learning future. I also try my best d topics that will fun and interesting, to fin e concepts and motivate the kids to explor ideas on their own. t students What is a hidden talent tha don’t know about you? ly. And I I can read books very quick ice in a never hiccup more than tw row.
Mr. Mich
ael Misc iasci ha for 17 ye s been a teache r ars .
and why? What is your favorite book be Red Storm Rising by My favorite book would found s in the military so I always this book and it Tom Clancy. My father wa d rea I reading until ted ha o als I . ng ati cin fas war movies g that I have to this day. ignited a passion for readin in your school cafeteria? What is your favorite meal wl. The Popcorn Chicken Bo ool spirit? support How do you show your sch me game of every sport to ho e on st lea at d en att to s I wear I do my best cipate in those sports. Plu rti pa o wh nts de stu my d the school an e! Newsome stuff all the tim
Academy Provides Interactive Education on Bloomingdale Ave.
By Kate Quesada
Brandon Points area students Standards with special and typically needs have function sigan education nificantly alternative that below grade they may not level,” said know about. Appelbaum. Interactive The Education school offers Academy three options (IEA), locatfor earning ed on diplomas. The Bloomingdale first is the Students enrolled at the Interactive Education Ave., specialAcademy on Bloomingdale Ave. receive a personal- standard 24 ized education with small class sizes. izes in teachcredit high ing middle and high school students school diploma. There is also a stanwith learning disabilities and special dard 19 credit high school diploma needs and is currently enrolling for which is only recognized at two-year grades six through 12. colleges and technical schools. The According to English Teacher and final option is a Standard Diploma on Principal Madeleine Appelbaum, the Access Points, which looks identical to school, which is fully accredited through a traditional high school diploma but is the National Independent Private not recognized as valid at any post-secSchools Association (NIPSA), helps ondary institutions including two-and students with dyscalculia, dyslexia, pro- four-year colleges, technical schools cessing delays and disorders, dysand all branches of the military. graphia, brain injury, dyspraxia, ADD, “In Florida, students with disabilities ADHA, autism, Tourette’s Syndrome, are granted the right to stay in school Asperger’s Syndrome and other learnuntil they are 22 years old,” said ing disabilities. Appelbaum. “We often encounter students who IEA’s philosophy is to provide a well have had negative experiences in tradi- rounded education, grounded in a comtional classroom settings and are lookmitment to teach to the student, not to ing for an alternative route,” said the standard. A specialized curriculum Appelbaum, who has a Master’s is tailored to help students with excepdegree in Public Administration from tionalities succeed, both inside and outVillanova University and a Bachelor of side the academic arena. Science in Rehabilitative Science, with The school, which originally opened a focus in Developmental Disabilities, in 2001 as the Dyslexia Institute of from Clarion University. America, recognizes the Gardiner Thirty-eight local students are curScholarship as well as the John McKay rently enrolled in the school which has Scholarship that is awarded to public six teachers. Class sizes average from school students in Florida under an eight to 12 students although the upper Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a high school class is currently made up 504 plan. of 14. According to Appelbaum, 12 stuTo learn more about Interactive dents are currently educated in the self- Education Academy, located at 1474 contained classroom. Bloomingdale Ave., call 689-2087 or “Students in a self-contained classvisit www.interactiveeducationacaderoom are educated on the Access my.org.
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Page 33
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Photos courtesy of the Newsome Wolves football team
Newsome Wolves Football Celebrates Playoffs Run For First Time Since 2012 The Newsome football program reached the playoffs for the first time since 2012. The Wolves lost in the first round of regionals to a tough Steinbrenner team, but they improved on last season’s 4-6 record, finishing 8-3 in the 2019 campaign. Head Coach C.J. Yockey has quickly turned this program around in just two seasons. He replaced 12-year head coach Ken Hiscock in December of 2017. They had one of the tougher schedules in Hillsborough County, facing four playoff teams. Yockey gives a lot of credit to his senior class of 17 players for leading the way. “They set the tone for the year with their leadership and toughness,” said Yockey. “It was just cool to see a small group of kids take on the role of the leaders of the team, and we just kind of rode them.” In recent years Newsome has been known as more of a run-heavy offense. Under junior quarterback Nick Felice, they became more of a threat through the air, giving them the balance they needed to be successful. Felice completed 52
• • • • • • • • • • • •
The Newsome football team after clinching a playoff berth.
passes for 844 total yards, with 10 touchdown passes and only five interceptions. The Wolves lost their first game to Bloomingdale 28-13, but then proceeded to win 7 in a row and 8 of 9, dominating their opponents in the process. They accomplished these feats while not having a bye week to rest during the regular season. They had to play 10 games in the 10-week season. The Wolves set school records for single-season rushing yards and total offensive yards gained. They also came within one game of win-
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ning the district championship. Second Team All-Western Conference selection senior Landon White and sophomore First Team All-Western Conference selection Jason Albritton led the Newsome rushing attack. Albritton led the team in carries with 184 for 1,464 yards and an impressive team-leading 14 touchdowns. White added 90 carries for 746 yards and 11 touchdowns. “Our goal this year was to be a playoff team and we accomplished that, so next year our goal would be to win the
district title and win a playoff game,” said Yockey. The Wolves offensive line was a major asset to setting those school records. Offensive linemen, senior Kyle Hoerner and junior Thomas Heeps, were voted First Team All-Western Conference and senior Matt Rainey has started every game for the last three years. Other Newsome All-Western Conference selections were Kyle Sellers (second team), Deandre Perez (second team), Brendan Gann (fjrst team), Caden Huffman (first team), Kevin Osborn (second team), Devan Belcher (second team) and punter Ryan Eckley (first team). Yockey is already looking forward to next season. The team will take two months off and get back together at the end of January for offseason workouts. “We’re going to use the playoff loss to motivate us this offseason to kind of show the kids what level we have to get to in order to move on in the playoffs,” said Yockey. “That’s going to be our focus going into next August.”
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Page 34
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Photos courtesy of the Mike & Nancy Nahas
Five Bloomingdale Student-Athletes Sign National Letters Of Intent On Signing Day
O
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been a childThe Bloomingdale hood dream to High School media center be able to play was filled with excitement college softon National Signing Day ball and the on November 13 as four fact that it’s student-athletes signed actually haptheir National Letters of pening is surIntent to play in college. real,” said Two members of the Harrigan. She Bulls baseball team, Brock plans on Wilken and Khalil Mason, majoring in signed letters. Wilken nursing. signed with Wake Forest Eleanor University in North Kosky was a Carolina. Last season, huge reason Wilken had one of the best for the sucindividual seasons in cess of the Bloomingdale and volleyball Hillsborough County baseteam winning ball history. The catcher hit Brock Wilken signed with Wake Forest Khalil Mason signed with Lancaster Bible Eleanor Kosky signed with Maryville districts this a school-record and University to play baseball. College to play baseball. College to play volleyball. past season. She signed with Maryville Hillsborough County-leading 12 home University in Missouri. The middle hitter runs while batting .468 with 26 RBIs and recorded 113 kills, averaging 1.6 kills per 37 hits in 79 at bats in just 25 games. He set with a 42.6 kill percentage while hitting was selected as the 813Preps.com Hitter a .223. “It means a lot that all my hard of the Year and was selected into the work and the long days and everyone’s Tampa Bay Times’ all-Tampa Bay basesupport paid off in the end,” said Kosky. ball First Team. She is undecided on her major as of right “It means a lot for not only me but now. Her goals for college volleyball are also my family because we’ve been waitto help out where she is needed and to ing for this day since I was 8 or 9 years make an impact on and off the court. old when I started playing baseball,” said On November 15, Bloomingdale girls Wilken. “It’s a dream come true honestly.” basketball player Erin Leigh became the Wilken right now plans on majoring in first lady Bull in the last 10 years to sign. criminology with a minor in psychology. She signed with Rollins College in Wilken will have a tough decision to Orlando. The team captain led the team make if he gets selected in next year’s in points each game last season with 13.7 MLB draft if he wants to start his pro while also averaging 7.4 rebounds and career or put it on hold to play in college. 2.7 assists each game. “I’m just so Catcher Khalil Mason signed with happy,” said Leigh. “I didn’t think I was Lancaster Bible College in Pennsylvania. Kailey Harrigan signed with Jacksonville Erin Leigh signed with Rollins College to going to play college basketball because I “To me it really just shows that hard work University to play softball. play basketball didn’t have any offers up until the begindoes pay off,” said Mason. “I might not tice. bigger fields in the county and also playning of the school year, so I’m just really have played every single varsity inning all Two-star athlete Kailey Harrigan ing the physically demanding catcher excited.” She will major in cybersecurity. four years I’ve been here, but to be able signed to play softball at Jacksonville position. Her team won the district title for to move on, even though it’s D-III, it’s still University. Harrigan is considered one of the first time since 2004. She was named Leigh’s goals for the coming high school a college and a lot of people aren’t able the best softball players in the state by to the First Team All-Western Conference, season are to reach 1,000 career points and win a district championship. to do that.” Mason has been on varsity for area coaches. Last season, she set the batting .466 with 28 RBIs and 34 hits If your school has a signing day all four years and he will get playing time record for most home runs in a season while throwing out half of the baserunners scheduled or a press release to send, at catcher this coming high school seaby a Bloomingdale player with eight while that attempted to steal on her. She plays email nnahas@ospreyobserver.com. son. He plans on majoring in criminal jus- playing her home games at one of the goalie for the soccer team as well. “It’s Your Hometown Meeting Place for Great Food, Service, Sports & Entertainment!
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Photos courtesy of the Bloomingdale football program
Bloomingdale Bulls Football Team Proud To Make Playoffs For Third Straight Season The Bloomingdale Bulls had an outstanding 2019 football season, claiming their fourth straight winning season and third straight playoff appearance. Bloomingdale won their first two playoff games in school history last season. The Bulls defeated Winter Haven 14-7 in the regional quarterfinal on November 8, but then lost to a talented Armwood team 20-9 on November 15 in the regional semifinals. The Bulls lost a week two matchup to Armwood 28-0 in early August. The football team has developed into one of the better programs in Hillsborough County over the last four years. In 2015, they had a 1-9 season and they were looking for a new head coach to turn the program around and change the culture. Max Warner was hired and he did just that, recording a winning record in all three seasons at the helm of a program that had only two winning seasons in the school’s 28 years prior to his hire. Since then, Warner has gone on to be the quarterbacks coach at Bowling Green University and Jake Coulson has
taken over as head coach after coming to Bloomingdale the season before as the defensive coordinator. Coulson, with his defensive mindset, has continued the momentum with a 9-3 2019 campaign. The Bulls had one of the toughest schedules in Hillsborough County this season, and their only three losses came to powerhouse programs Armwood and Lakeland. Coulson thinks that playing tough teams along with a productive offseason have prepared them for the playoff run. “These kids know how to work and they’ve bought into our off-season program back when we ended the season
last year,” said Coulson. “Football games aren’t won during the season, they are won during the off-season.” Senior running back and South Dakota State commit Dominic Gonnella has been a big part of Bloomingdale’s success over the last three seasons after transferring from Riverview. He thinks that this year’s team has been the one that has faced the most adversity. “This season was a lot more of a grind for us,” said Gonnella. “We lost a lot of talented seniors from last year, and it really came down to who was more disciplined and who was gonna make the next big play to keep us in the game. A lot of grit from this year’s team helped us get where we are.” The 2020 senior class is the winningest class in schools history with a 3313 overall record. “It means a lot to know that I was a part of the success that was brought to the program, along with guys like Levi Williams, Maurice Frost and other guys from the 2020 class,” said Gonnella. “I’m proud to know we made history here.”
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Volume 12, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Where To See Holiday Lights And Entertainment To Please The Entire Family Christmas Lane At The Strawberry Festival Grounds
Over 2,000 volunteer hours have prepared the winter wonderland full of the magic at Christmas Lane, which will take place at the Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds on 1508 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City, from Friday, November 29 through Tuesday, December 24 from 6-10 p.m. Enjoy over 1.5 million lights, drawing more than 180,000 watts of power, adorning over 200 Christmas trees from 4 to 40 ft. tall. Be sure to visit Santa. Have your photo taken, professionally or with your own camera, and enjoy the live entertainment. Fritzy the One Man Circus performs each hour and area performers will entertain on the half hour. Food concessions are available and rides will entertain the young ones (for an additional charge). Admission is $5 for ages 13 and older, $3 for ages 4-12 and free for those 3 and under. Parking is free. For more information, visit https://christmaslane.com/.
Tampa Bay’s Wonderland Of Lights & Santa’s Village Don’t miss Tampa's Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village located at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover from Thursday, November 28, 2019 through Saturday, January 4, 2020. Drive through one mile of dazzling lights and holiday displays. At the end of your journey, you can visit the village and enjoy circus attractions, comedy or magic shows (check the calendar for list of events), a wolf exhibit, amusement rides, pony and camel rides and photos with Santa. Yummy fair-style food such
as mini donuts, chocolate chip cookies, funnel cakes, pizza and pulled pork will be available. New this year, take a journey through the light display or just visit the village for a small admission fee. Season tickets are available so you can make multiple visits. The hours are 6-9 p.m. on weekdays and 610 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Please check the calendar online as it is not open every weeknight through the holiday period. If you purchase your tickets online, the cost is $25 for a car (one to eight passengers). The cost includes admission to Santa’s Village. A season pass costs $65 per vehicle. Visit https://thewonderlandoflights.com.
Nights Of Shimmering Lights
Enjoy the grounds at the Sun Kissed Acres, which has joined with Nights of Shimmering Lights to bring a holiday light experience for families to enjoy. Enjoy a quarter-mile walking trail through the lights with music, animated scenes, outdoor holiday movies, games, a photo booth and Santa. Located at 2302 N. Dover Rd. in Dover, Nights of Shimmering Lights opens on Saturday, November 30 and runs through Wednesday, December 25. It will be open Thursday to Sunday each week and also Monday to Wednesday, December 23-25. The hours are 6-9 p.m. on Sunday and Thursday and 6-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The cost is $6 per person over 3 years old. Ages 3 and under are free. Parking is free. Visit www.thesunkissedacres.com.
Compiled by Michelle Colesanti
$19.99. Tickets are on sale now. Visit https://enchantchristmas.com/stpete.
Barrington Oaks - Christmas Lights Display
Enchant Christmas
Enchant Christmas is a large-scale, immersive holiday light experience featuring the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, a locally curated food and Christmas market, ice skating trail, live entertainment and much more. The larger-than-life maze experience is coming to Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg and is based on Enchant’s storybook, The Great Search. In this story, Santa’s reindeer are accidentally set free and the entire city is charged with helping him track them down inside Enchant’s World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze. Build traditions and make memories that last a lifetime as this experience festively wraps guests of all ages in the awe and wonder of this cherished time of year. Tropicana Field is located at 1 Tropicana Dr. in St. Petersburg. Enchant Christmas will run from Friday, November 22 to Thursday, December 12 from 4-10 p.m. from Monday to Thursday and 4-11 p.m. from Friday to Sunday. From Friday-Sunday, December 1329, it will be open from 4-11:00 p.m. daily. Enchant Christmas will be closed Monday-Thursday, November 25-28, and on Monday, December 2 and 9. Adult general admission starts at
Each year, Barrington Oaks subdivision, located on the southeast corner of Lumsden Rd. and John Moore Rd., opens its neighborhood to the public in the spirit of the holiday to share in the spirit of Christmas with a light display. The gates will be open Friday, December 13 through Thursday, December 26 from 6-11 p.m. every night with extended hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas day from 6 p.m.-12:30 a.m. for those two special days. The neighborhood welcomes you but asks that you please make a right hand turn as you enter the neighborhood.
Oakdale Light Display
You can visit the Oakdale Light Display in St. Petersburg, which is ranked among the best in the U.S. and features approximately a half million lights. It is the only display to make HGTV's #1 and NBC's Today show's top three in the same year. This year, there are many major additions, upgrades and changes to the lights and displays. Enjoy the walkways, fountains, computerized light show, animated dolls and a snowman about three stories high. The most popular item is the large HO-scale model railroad running 18 trains at one time. The event is free and fun for everyone. Visit the display from Friday, November 29, 2019 through Thursday, January 3, 2020 from 6-10 p.m. at 2719 Oakdale St. in St. Petersburg. For more information, visit ChristmasDisplay.org.
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Page 37
Get Into The Holidays Spirit With Lots Of Fun Holiday Events In November And December By Kathy L. Collins
light the tree with Mayor Jane Castor. Curtis Hixon Park is located at 600 N. Ashley St. in Tampa.
There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to attend a Christmas tree lighting event. Check out all of the events coming up in November and December.
Downtown Tampa Christmas Parade
The Annual Downtown Tampa Christmas Parade will be held on the next day, Saturday, December 7, beginning at 11 a.m. The parade will wind throughout downtown, but the best place to view the parade is along Madison St. The parade will be followed by the Annual Santa Fest in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park from 12 Noon to 4 p.m.
Ybor City Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Market
The Ybor City Chamber of Commerce will kick off the holiday season with the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Market on Wednesday, November 20. This free event will feature Courtesy of Michael M. Sinclaire Enjoy some magical holiday fun at the many area Christmas holiday entertainment, Tree Lighting events including the Annual Ybor City Tree photo opportunities and Lighting Ceremony which will kick off the holiday season. holiday shopping. The Annual Lights of Love. This fantastic Holiday Market opens at 5 p.m. The annual event includes a Christmas tree music and entertainment start at 6 p.m. lighting ceremony in McCall Park located Mayor Jane Castor will help count down to the lighting of the tree. The event takes at 100 N. Collins St. The 24-foot tree is lit with lights purchased by area residents, place at Centro Ybor, located at 1600 E. organizations and businesses in honor of 8th Ave. in Tampa. someone they have lost. The proceeds Enchanted Tree Lighting In Hyde will benefit South Florida Baptist Hospital. Park Village You can get photos with Santa and Mrs. The Annual Enchanted Tree Lighting Claus at 5:30 p.m. The tree lighting cereCeremony in Hyde Park will take place mony will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 23 from 5 to 8 Ginny Cozy of Valrico said, “The nosp.m. This is a free, family-friendly event talgic feel of Plant City is the perfect backwhich will feature holiday surprises, live drop for a Christmas tree lighting event.” music, photos with Santa, food trucks and more. Hyde Park Village is located at 1602 W. Snow Ave. in Tampa.
Downtown Plant City For Annual Lights of Love
On Thursday, December 5, come to historic downtown Plant City for the
Plant City Annual Christmas Parade
Come back to Plant City on Friday, December 6 for the Annual Christmas Parade from 7 to 9 p.m. The parade begins at the intersection of Collins St. and Alsobrook St. in downtown Plant City.
Winthrop Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
The parade will run down Collins St., turn right on Reynolds Ave. and end just past the Plant City Courthouse. You can bring chairs and comfortably watch and be a part of this annual tradition in Plant City.
City of Tampa Annual Tree Lighting
The City of Tampa will hold its Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 6 at 6 p.m. in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa. The event is free and includes a countdown to
On Friday, December 6, the community of Winthrop in Riverview will present its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. This annual event is fun and free for the whole community. The event begins at approximately 6 p.m. The tree lighting will take place at approximately 7 p.m. A free holiday movie will follow. Winthrop Town Centre is located at the intersection of Bloomingdale Ave. and Providence Rd. in Riverview. Are we missing a favorite event? Email michelle@ospreyobserver.com and we’ll add it to the list.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
You Will Not Want To Miss Plant City Entertainment’s Holiday Fundraiser Every holiday dancers and season, Plant City actors who want Entertainment presto bring that warm ents a holiday fuzzy family holifundraiser. In years day feeling to the past, they have had a Plant City concert or a cold Entertainment read. This year, Vette stage. Unlike a Berrian, a new memregular season ber of the Plant City show that takes Entertainment family months to prepare has created an origiA Jolly Holiday litnal show. erally is being A Jolly Holiday done in a month.” will be presented on Berrian is a Saturday, December This year, Plant City Entertainment’s 10-year Army vetholiday fundraiser is an original play by eran and a 2314 and Sunday, Vette Berrian. The 90-minute show is a December 15 at 2 salute to military families during the hol- year Air Force p.m. Plant City spouse. She has iday season. Entertainment is been seen on and located at 101 N. Thomas St. in hisoff stage in three PCE productions toric Plant City. and is making her directorial debut. Tickets to A Jolly Holiday are $12 “My family and I spent multiple for adults and $8 for children 12 years separated during the holidays years old and younger. Tickets can due to deployments. Therefore, I be purchased by visiting understand the sacrifices being made www.pceshows.com. by these families. When families are In creating A Jolly Holiday, celebrating the holidays, it is easy to Berrian combined two of her original forget about them, and I did not want plays. The first is I'll Be Home For that,” said Berrian. Christmas, a salute to service mem“I wanted to combine military bers and their families who are sepa- service, the Christmas story and the rated during the holiday season), and joy of family to create a show. The Real Mrs. Claus (a one act show Everyone I spoke with wanted to be about how Mrs. Claus deals with a a part of it. I am very fortunate that letter entitled Santa Baby). this talented group of professionals The combination of the two plays said yes. I am eternally grateful,” is a 90-minute show that according to added Berrian. Berrian, "Mirrors the 70's variety For more information on A Jolly shows I grew up watching." Holiday and other shows offered by Berrian explained, "A Jolly Plant City Entertainment, please visit Holiday consists of a 31-member www.pceshows.com. hand selected cast of singers,
Village Players: Oliver The Musical Is The Perfect Show For The Holidays The Valrico mark is Mr. Village Players Brownlow. He takes will present Oliver pity on Oliver and The Musical this offers him a home. December. Oliver Long-time direcThe Musical will tor, actor and Artistic open on Friday, Director for the December 6. Village Players, Additional shows Domin Pazo directs will take place on Oliver The Musical. Friday, December Pazo said, "This is 13 and 20, and one of the classics. Saturday, To me, when I think The Village Players, under the direction of classics, I think of December 7, 14, of Artistic Director, Domin Pazo, will pres- old school, family and 21. The ent Oliver The Musical this December. shows will begin friendly shows that at 8 p.m. There will be came out in the 50's two matinees on and 60's." Domin Sunday, December 8 added, "This is one and 15 at 3 p.m. musical that won both Doors open 30 mina Tony Award and then utes prior. won an Academy Tickets for Award for the movie General Admission adaptation." are $18. Seniors, miliOliver The Musical tary with ID and stuhas a lot of memodents are $15. Groups rable songs including of 10 or more can reserve and purFood Glorious Food, It's A Fine Life chase tickets in advance for $15 per and I'd Do Anything. person. Domin said of the cast, Oliver The Musical, with music "Everyone in the cast is super hardand lyrics by Lionel Bart, is based on working and just terrific. This is a the novel, Oliver Twist, by Charles great show for the whole family and a Dickens. It premiered on London's great way to see something perfect West End in 1960. Thereafter, the for the holidays." musical enjoyed a long and successAll shows of Oliver The ful run on Broadway. Musicaland other shows presented The plot revolves around an by The Village Players Valrico will orphan named Oliver. After running take place at the Historic James away from the orphanage run by the McCabe Theatre located at 506 N. heartless Mr. Bumble, Oliver meets 5th St. in Valrico. For more informathe Artful Dodger and is recruited to tion, please visit www.thevillageplaypick pockets for Fagin. Oliver's first ersvarico.com.
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Experience Joy And Wonder Every Day At Busch Gardens® Christmas Town™. There is so much to experience and see at Christmas Town. Guests will enjoy millions of twinkling lights, Christmas shows, the Sing-Along Train and, of course, visits with Santa and Rudolph, which takes place every day of the season through Monday, January 6, 2020, featuring extended hours on weekends. Christmas Town is included with any daily admission or annual pass and is open until 10 p.m. on select dates. New this year is Merry Mint Lane, where park guests will waddle with excitemint as they get up close to penguins and other animal ambassadors in a whole new way at the Animal Care Center. The area’s festive makeover includes photo opportunities with new Peppermint Pals, tasty treats and more. Come early with the whole family and make Christmas Town the unforgettable backdrop for your holiday card. Santa Claus will be at Busch Gardens through Tuesday, December 31 in the Nairobi section of the park. The big man himself will take a break from his busy holiday schedule to meet and take photos with your family in his study at Santa’s House Presented by Coca-Cola®. Additional amazing photo opportunities are around every corner: the enchanting twinkling
Page 39
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Staff Report
light tunnel leading into Stanleyville, all your favorite characters at Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland, Ice and Poinsettia princesses along pathways, largerthan-life Cookie Monster and Elmo nutcracker figures along the Sesame Street® Safari of Fun walkway, and playful penguins at the holiday-themed
Penguin Point. Explore Christmas Town Village’s quaint holiday cabins while shopping for the perfect gift from a selection of artisan offerings. The Christmas Town Village opens at 4 p.m. daily. Discover the magic of Christmas On Ice, brought to you by the award-winning creators of Turn It Up! Then journey to the Carol of the Bells light show to be dazzled by the choreographed lights and music, or see the all-new The Most Wonderful Time show at Dragon Fire Grill. Busch Gardens will be open at 10 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve, and it will open at 10 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. on Christmas Day. From Saturday to Monday, January 4 to 6, 2020, unfold the famed journey of the Wise Men during Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Three Kings Day Celebration event. For more information, visit ChristmasTown.com or follow the park on social media.
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Page 40
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
Page 41
Favorite Things Sweepstakes Offers Special Rolling Pin Early Bird Prize-Big Green Egg
By Marie Gilmore
to contest@ospreyobserver.com or fill out the entry form and send in by mail, fax or email. Last year, more than 1,000 local residents entered the campaign and ONE lucky winner walked away with a prize package worth more than $2,000.
Christmas C ins
nd Prize ear’s Grahristmas y t s la n wart wo in time for the C Alyce Ste st Valrico’s kes drawing ju liday. Ho sweepsta
For five years, Osprey Observer newspapers has been partnering with local retailers to publish the Holiday Favorite Things Sweepstakes and gift guide, and this year promises to be one of the best yet! This year, we've partnered with our friends at Rolling Pin to offer an early bird prize of a Big Green Egg Grill! We are so excited to have such a great prize for our readers! The campaign is called, the Osprey Observer, A Few of Our Favorite Things, and we have gone to local businesses and
Early Bird Prizes will include a Big Green Egg from Rolling Pin, tickets to Busch Gardens Christmas Town and more. Good luck and thank you for shopping local and reading your Osprey Observer Community Newspaper! Managing Editor Marie Gilmore
asked them to give us ideas for a few of the top items available this holiday season. From now until midDecember, we will be collecting Our Favorite Things all throughout the community and putting them together in one giant gift basket that will be given out in a Sweepstakes for our readers. “We have such great success and we are excited to share some of this year's treasures from our local small businesses with our readers,” explains Assignment Editor Michelle Colesanti. To enter, email Sweepstakes
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Cooking Classes & Big Green Egg Make Rolling Pin A Great Place For Gifts A visit to Rolling Pin Emporium will give you plenty of ideas to help you find something for every chef in your life. If you have holiday parties to attend this year, Rolling Pin also has a great selection of special wines and decorative holiday gifts. Do you like to cook—or just like to eat? Rolling Pin also offers cooking classes for all types of meals. Some of the classes are hands-on and some are demonstration-only. Either way, you get to enjoy a great meal. You can take classes to learn about new foods you have not yet experimented with. The classes also make for a great date night, and the classes are a great gift that anybody would enjoy receiving. Stop by and browse the gourmet retail store’s extensive collection of classic and unique kitchenware. You will find everything from barware, bakeware, aprons, towels and mitts, coffees and teas, cookware, electrics, gadgets, gifts for entertaining, knives and cutting boards, outdoor cooking and more. According to owner, Chef Dave West, “We are the area’s licensed retailer for Frozen 2 (the movie) bakeware, as well as a huge selection for all holiday baking needs - cookie cutters, bake essential and decorating tools.”
Staff Report
If you can’t decide on what you’d like to give, gift cards and gift certificates for both retail and cooking classes are available. Rolling Pin Emporium is Brandon’s Premier Platinum Big Green Egg Dealer. “The new Expander System is hot, as is the Egg Genius Remote Temperature Controller,” according to West. The all-new MiniMax Big Green Egg is proof that great things come in small packages. This EGG is the first to arrive with its own transportation in the form of a sturdy, easy-to-grip carrier. With a value of $599, this year’s special gift giveaway is the MiniMax. It is perfect for camping, poolside and for tailgating at the ballgame. It is also at home in award-winning restaurants. Top chefs love exploring the EGG’s versatility and discovering the amazing flavors produced in such a compact and high-performance package. The MiniMax is built to perform and is ready to travel to wherever your culinary interests take you. Rolling Pin Emporium is open for private events too. Rolling Pin is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit http://rollingpinonline.com/ for more information.
Music And The Arts Are Focus For Great Holiday Gifts At Music Showcase Music is the international language that is understood and enjoyed by all. Music Showcase is your one-stop shop for everything related to music and the arts. It is both a retail store and education center. This year, what better than to gift a love of music to your children? Music Showcase offers name-brand products at competitive prices, and you can also buy used gear at lower prices. Competitive pricing is available for sheet music and books too. For your instruments needing repair, the work is done in-house. Music Showcase also offers group as well as private one-on-one music lessons. Instrument rentals start at $10 (if you don’t want to make a purchase). If you sign up online, the instrument will be delivered to your school. To spark a love of music early in life, Music Showcase hosts free workshops for mini musicians ages 4-10. At these free workshops, youngsters learn about various instruments and are welcome to join in to play, hear and learn about them. They can try the guitar, violin, trumpet, drums and more. These workshops take place on the second Saturday of the month. Upcoming workshops are scheduled for November 9 and December 7
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Staff Report
from 9:30-11 a.m. Register at FAOPA.org or call 4902787. Is your child interested in musical theatre, acting or maybe photography? Sign them up at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase for performance programs, musical theatre, summer camps, art classes and more. Tickets are currently on sale for Beauty and the Beast, Matilda The Musical, Mamma Mia, The Jungle Book and Footloose. Do your kids need to get some holiday shopping done too? Music Showcase and FAOPA will host Santa’s Workshop on Saturday, December 7 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., offering food, games, prizes, ‘snowball’ fights, ‘ice skating’, crafts and more. Your children will make and wrap five gifts to give to loved ones. There will be a ‘Best Christmas PJ’s’ contest. The movie Arthur Christmas will also be shown. The cost is $20 per child enrolled in a program or lesson and $25 for a child not enrolled. Call 490-3787 or visit FAOPA.org for more information or to sign up. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-5998 or visit MusicShowcaseOnline.com and FAOPA.org.
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Corbin’s Coin, Bundt Cake Tower And Mainstream Boutique Mac Jeans Corbin’s Stamp & Coin Is Your Source For Treasured Family Heirlooms If you are looking for the perfect gift - maybe for a family with a new baby or to celebrate a momentous occasion, a special coin may be the perfect keepsake? Start a new family tradition by commemorating the Christmas season each year. Holiday coin collections are the Gift Basket Item: perfect way. Corbin’s Holiday One ounce silSilver Coin ver coins are Value: available for $29.95 $29.95 (plus tax) in a gift box or also as an ornament that can be displayed. The many varieties include Baby's First Christmas, Oh Holy Night, Season’s Greetings, Santa and other coins. The coins come either in an AirTite capsule with a gift box or in an ornament holder. The ornament holder does not fit into the gift box. Corbin’s Coins is located at 209 N. Kings Ave. in Brandon and is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.
to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 651-3266.
CORBIN’S
Stamp & Coin Nothing Bundt Cakes Are Perfect Desserts To Add To Your Holiday Meals Nothing Bundt Cakes creates cakes using hand-crafted recipes that not only remind you of home, but also open you to a new world. At Nothing Bundt Cakes, you get real eggs, butter and cream cheese in every cake. Not only do these cakes look great, they taste even better. These are great holiday gifts to take to all of your holiday events and for all Gift Basket Item: Holiday Bundlet of your family Tower gatherings. Value: It is located at $62.50 11238 Sullivan Street in Winthrop Town Centre. Everything you need
Locally Owned & Operated Faith Based Family Owned Business
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to make your party complete is available. The hardest part is choosing from the 10 delicious varieties including a ‘featured’ flavor. Hours are Monday to Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com or call 409-2394 to place your order ahead of time.
Mainstream Boutique You can visit Mainstream Boutique, a retail clothing store, in Winthrop to get some great ideas on gifts as well as attire for the holiday season. Make your head to toe purchases here where everything is new. It carries clothing, jewelry, accessories and shoes. Adorable outfits are available for every age group. The exclusive brand of jeans called
By Michelle Colesanti Gift Basket Item: Mac Jean Value: $80
Mac and Me is available. Designed by a woman, the line is multigenerational and fits all body types. Buttery soft; fitting in all the right places; stretching with you, but don’t stretch out. Another popular brand in stock is Liverpool. All jewelry is handmade and made in the USA. Some of the jewelry is from local and are one-of-a-kind pieces. Other services offered are One on One Style sessions, Ladies Night Out and shopping for a cause. Mainstream Boutique is located in Winthrop at 11231 Sullivan St. in Riverview. Hours are Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-4 p.m. Call 643-0090.
Page 44
Rolling Pin Kitchen, Full Grown Girl, Santa At Pixel Portraits, McAuley Jewelry Great Gift Ideas and Classes Help Make Rolling Pin A Great Stop For Holiday Gift Needs If you are stuck coming up with creative gift ideas, a visit to Gift Basket Rolling Pin Item: Emporium will Big Green Egg give you plenty of Mini Max: 13ideas to help you inch grill diamfind something for eter every chef in your Total Value: life. Rolling Pin also $599 offers cooking classes for all types of meals. It is also Brandon’s only Platinum Dealer for the Big Green Egg, the ultimate cooking experience. Rolling Pin is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit http://rollingpinonline.com/ for more information. Full Grown Girl Airstream Shop Opens In Winthrop Owner Cynthia Atkins recently opened a new gift shop featuring hand-
made items, candles, jewelry, beauty and bath products, baby items, home décor and vintage finds. No matter your taste or style, you will find something for your favorite family members and friends. Full Grown Girl is located in a vintage Airstream trailer at 11267 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview. The hours are Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For more information, call 629-1124, visit fullgrowngirl.com or find on Facebook at Full Grown Girl.
Water Filter Warehouse Offers Unique Gift Ideas The team at the Water Filter Warehouse feels that there is nothing like celebrating the holidays with clean water and a whole house water system. This is a unique gift for someone. It offers Salt Free Water Systems & Wholesale Water Filters, Filtered Water Pitcher or Water Filter Gift Basket Bottles. Item: Stop by the show$50 Gift Card room, which is located Total Value: at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest $50 Rd. in Valrico. You can also call 844-420-8326 (H2O-TEAM) or visitTheWaterFilterWarehouse.com.
Reserve Your Space With Santa At Pixel Portraits Pixel Portraits is more than a photo Gift Basket: shoot; it is One Hour Family an experience. It Christmas Session specializes in (8x10/two family, maternity, 5x7/eight wallets) baby, children, Value: couples engage$100 ment, glamour, business headshots and more. For the holiday season, Pixel Portraits will hold special Santa Minis Portrait sessions on select days: November 2, 3, 10, 11, 16 and 17. This includes a 20 minute interactive session, 11x14 framed art print and personalized studio viewing for $100. Another favorite are the Family Christmas Sessions from which you can choose four differGift Basket ent Christmas scenes. Item: Pixel Portraits Filtered water is located at 930 W. pitcher Lumsden Rd. in Total Value: Brandon. Regular $70 hours are
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
McAuley Fine Jewelry Is A Gem In The Community Make this season merry and bright for someone you love by designing something unique to surprise them with. McAuley Fine Jewelry will help you plan your custom-made piece of jewelry. Previously loved pieces of jewelry are also available.
Gift Basket: 14k White Gold Oval Blue Topaz/Diamond Drop Earrings Jewelry and watch repairs Value: are also done on $1650
premises. It also will purchase your scrap gold. McCauley Fine Jewelry is located
Women’s unique clothing and accessories
Receive a FREE $20 Gift Card*
for Multi-Generations.
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By Michelle Colesanti
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m and Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. It is closed on Thursdays. Call or visit online to schedule an appointment: 657-7121 or www.mypixelportraits.com.www.mypixelportraits.com.
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Wishing You & Your Family a
Merry Christmas
Page 45
BLU Indigo Spa Escapes, Music Showcase Lessons And Water Filtration on Oakfield Drive, in the Atlantic Village Plaza, Kings Ave. & Oakfield Dr. It is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 689-8124 or visit www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com.
Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Call 651-3258 and visit BluIndigoSpa.com.
Gifting Music Lessons At Music Showcase Can Create a Life Long Passion Music is the internationGift Basket al language that is underItem: stood and enjoyed by all. Find Time To Relax Over Spa Treatment Share your love of music The Holidays Or Give The Total Value: by offering voice or instruGift Of Relaxation $90 ment lessons to your favorite BLU Indigo Spa has a warm, student. Instrument rentals start therapeutic atmosphere designed to at $10 (if you don’t want to make a enhance your relaxation and comfort. purchase). If you sign up online, the Let our expert staff take you on a instrument will be delivered to your journey to establishing a new and revitalized you. Let them help you put school. The gift of music lessons to let your child try a new instrument is your best self forward. Help yourself gear up for the holi- something that can last a lifetime. All of your music needs can be days with a relaxing massage or look found at Music Showcase, which your best at holiday events with a offers competitive pricing on sheet facial. Other services include nails music and books. There is an inand waxing. Walk-Ins are welcome house repair shop, and private and and hours are Monday and Tuesday group lessons are offered. from 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Wednesday to Is your child interested in musical Saturday from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. A great gift idea to help your Gift Basket friends and family de-stress durItem: ing or after the holidays is the Ukulele with gift of a massage or facials. Gift Lesson Book cards are available and good Total for all services offered. Value: BLU Indigo is located at 3939
$50
theatre, acting, or maybe photography? Sign them up at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-5998 or visit MusicShowcaseOnline.com and FAOPA.org.
By Michelle Colesanti
Refresh Your Home This Holiday Season Or For The New Year With Gift Basket Walker Hill Item: Designs 2 Hour In Are you Home Design entertaining Consultation this holiday seaTotal Value: son? Get in touch $200 with Walker Hill Designs, which will style your home
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Pinch-A-Penny Has Big Green Egg, Edible Is A Sweet Idea & Mobile Massage
By Michelle Colesanti
so that you love it. Everyone deserves the gift of a beautiful home and Walker Hill Designs offers Interior Decorating, Home Staging and Color Consultations. If you are trying to sell your current home, Walker Hill Designs also offers home staging. Call 951-4545 to schedule a refresh. Visit walkerhilldesigns.com.
tion of pool supplies - since pool season never really ends in Florida. Purchase gift certificates as holiday gifts. Pinch a Penny’s is holding a sale from Thursday to Sunday, November 14-17. All Big Green Eggs and accessories will be 10% off. Hours are Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The FishHawk Pinch-APenny located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in the Winn Dixie Plaza in Lithia. Call 655-3700.
Holiday Gift Ideas From Pinch a Penny Include Big Green Egg Gift Basket Owners Larry and Item: Kathy Rugledge say Assortment of their favorite items to Edible Arrangements Is A Sweet Big Green Egg gift for the holiday Idea Spices & Sauces season are the Big There’s nothing sweeter for the Total Value: holidays than an arrangement of deliGreen Egg and all its $100 accessories. This comcious sweet fruit or chocolate dipped plete outdoor cooking system fruit gift boxes. It’s the perfect gift to give is the only outdoor cooker you will ever your holiday host or to send to someone need. It is the most versatile cooking out of state. device ever. It’s a grill, an oven and a There are two locations locally to smoker. You can cook anything from a serve you: Edible Valrico, 3455 Lithia turkey to baking a cake. It would make a Pinecrest Rd. Call 571-7200 and Edible great gift or a great perRiverview, 10273 Big Bend Rd. Call sonal purchase so 672-6111. Visit edithat you can cook ble.com. Gift Basket Item: up an amazing Happy Holiday holiday dinner. A Gift Of Platter Relaxation At Pinch a Total Value: Your Doorstep Penny FishHawk $50 Daniella’s has a great selec-
Mobile Massage offers deep Specializing in holistissue, neuromuscular, pretic foods made from natal and sports massage. real ingredients like Daniella, who is a licensed meat, fish and Massage Therapist with 17 healthful vegetayears of experience, offers bles, not byprodconvenient mobile massage ucts, it offers a with flexible scheduling. With great selection of a background in Physical all-natural foods as Therapy, she offers stress well as unique, natrelief through therapeutic ural chews and massage in the conventreats, including a ience of your home. frozen section feaGift Basket Item: turing all-natural raw food diets. All She recommends One Hour Mobile the foods are American-made, that a gift certificate Massage would be the perfect corn, wheat, soy and gluten-free. Total Value: gift for anyone on your You will find natural remedies for $65 list. worms, fleas and ticks. To schedule your (deKim’s also offers a wide variety of stress holiday appointment or toys, dog and cat bedding, apparel and to get information on gift certificates, supplies. please call, 323-4901, email Kim’s Natural Pet Foods is located dveten@gmail.com. Visit Daniellas at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Mobile Massage on Facebook. Rd. in Valrico (next to Gift Basket Subway). For more Item: Don’t Forget Your Pet’s In The information, call Pet Gift Basket Holiday Celebrations 684-3663 or visit Total Value: Your pets are part of the family and kimsnaturalpet$100 you don’t want them to miss out on the foods.com. holiday celebrations. Kim’s Natural Pet Foods has everything you need to give your pets happy, healthy lives, and there is no better time to check out some new food and treats to keep them as healthy and happy as possible.
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Boat Tours, FastFrame For Gifts, YMCA Membership & Sunset Grille Dinner and Monday by appointment only with 24-hour notice and Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Enhance Your Photos At Fast Frame For The Perfect Holiday Gift Did you take a Gift Basket special picture this year Share The Beauty Of Florida Item: while you spent time With Your Friends And Family Two $40 Gift with your family, maybe On Latitudes Tours Cards for on vacation or at a speNeed a respite from all of the Framing cial event? Surprise holiday celebrations? Or maybe Total Value: your family this year with you are looking for something fun to $80 a wonderful family picture do with relatives who are visiting? specially framed to order Share the beauty of Florida by taking commemorating this special them on a Sunset Dinner Cruise or shared time. Dolphin and Manatee Tour. If you have a Once you have that beautiful photo, a large group (up to 24) and want to celeframe becomes part of the bigger picture, brate, you can book a private charter. so it’s important to make sure that it Latitudes Tours also offers senior and brings out the photo in just the right way. veteran discounts and can accommodate When customers bring in their personal special needs. items and they are not sure about how to Gift certificates are also available and decorate their art, Fast Frame owner Alex would make a great gift for family and Roche helps to educate them on how to friends. enhance their item through framing. He Call 641-1311 or visit offers competitive pricing and has been latitudestours.com. assisting customers with frames for over 28 years. Fast Frame also offers oil paint Gift Basket stretches, shadow boxes, needle points, Item: restoration and repairs and corporate art. 4-Pack Family Fast Frame has been a part of the Tour Eco community for 15 years. For more inforTotal Value: mation, visit www.fastframe.com or call $100 Roche at 655-6400. Fast Frame is located at 6128 Winthrop Town Center Ave. in Riverview. Hours of operation are Sunday
By Michelle Colesanti
Six-Month Family Sunset Grill & Beach Bar Offers YMCA Excellent Views Membership Overlooking the beauty of Tampa Campo Y Bay is a table just for you. With exquisite offers many sunsets, live entertainment 7 days a exercise options week, great food and ambiance, why go for all ages and anywhere else? body types such as During your visit, escape your Yoga, cycling, everyday life with our staff’s contagious 6 Month Pilates, aerobics energy and relaxing atmosphere. Family and much more. Membership to Whether you want to sip on a cocktail or Many proenjoy a meal , its American and seafood YMCA grams and camps inspired fare will surely delight any taste Value: $569 are offered for the bud. family including child Come and enjoy one of Ruskin’s care while you work out. Sports for best-kept secrets at Sunset Grill and the kids are available such as basBeach Bar. ketball, volHours are Sunday leyball and - Thursday: 8 am. - 11 more. Seniors p.m. and Friday & not only benSaturday from 8 a.m.efit from 12 midnight. Sunday workouts geared toward them, but Brunch is served 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. With through the friendships made over 11 hot items to chose from through the other programs plus a chocolate fountain, Sunset Grill fresh cheese display, full offered. The local Campo Y is truly a Gift Certificate salad bar, soup station, Value: $50 fresh made omelette stapart of our community so make it a part of your family. Located at tion, fresh fruit, beef carving 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico, it is station, mimosa or champagne open Monday to Friday from 5 a.m.and desserts available. 10 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m.-7 For more iformation and reservap.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-6 tions, please call 607-2900 or visit p.m. www.sunsetgrillfl.com. Sunset Grill and Call 684-1371. Visit www.tamBeach Bar is located at 602 Bahia Del paymca.org/locations/campo. Sol Dr. Ruskin FL, 33570.
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Page 48
Pinch A Penny Offers Gift Certificates, Pool Gifts & Big Green Eggs
By Michelle Colesanti
Do you enjoy cooksizes, from extra large ing and barbecuing? If down to the MiniMax, so, this holiday season is which comes with an time for a new tradition. easy-to-grip carrier, so it FishHawk Pinch A is perfect as a tableside Penny owners Larry and cooker at your outdoor Kathy Rutledge said that party or a traveling EGG their favorite items to gift for motor homes or tailfor the holiday season gating. are the Big Green Egg Since pool season and all its accessories. never really ends in The Big Green Egg is a Florida, it is also a great complete outdoor cooktime to consider pool ing system; the only outitems or gift certificates door cooker you will ever Pinch A Penny’s Jimmy Rutledge for pool services as holistands with The Big Green Egg, day gifts. Consider a need. It is the most verone of his favorite items for satile cooking device nice basket of pool supholiday cooking, and a great gift ever, being a grill, an plies for your gift recipifor your favorite chef. oven and a smoker. You can cook your ents who own pools. Pinch A Penny turkey and bake the cake in it. FishHawk has the best selection of supBlending ancient traditions and modplies, including liquid chlorine, tablets, ern technology, it is strong and durable pumps, filters and more. You can count and provides better heat insulation than on personal service from the Rutledge any other outdoor cooker on the market. family. The Big Green Egg stands alone as Don’t miss Pinch A Penny’s sale from the most versatile barbecue and outdoor Thursday to Sunday, November 14-17. All cooking product on the market. You can Big Green Eggs and accessories will be make everything from pizza to ribs, or 10 percent off. holiday dinners and desserts. Whatever Stop by to get some great ideas. you choose, it will exceed all your expecHours are Monday to Saturday from 9 tations for culinary perfection. It is an a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 invaluable culinary tool for restaurant p.m. The FishHawk Pinch A Penny is chefs. located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in the The Big Green Eggs come in many Winn-Dixie plaza in Lithia. Call 655-3700.
Surprise Loved One With A Special Gift From McAuley Fine Jewelry
By Michelle Colesanti
This holiday season, whether you are planning to surprise your significant other with an engagement ring or just would like a custom piece of jewelry to give as a gift to your special someone, McAuley Fine Jewelry is a gem in the community and owner Ed McAuley, who has been in the business for many years, and the outstanding staff, many of which have been in the jewelry business for decades, will help you find the perfect piece that will enchant the bearer of your gift. McAuley spent a decade as assistant manager at Martin Jewelers prior to opening McAuley’s Fine Jewelry. When Martins Jewelers closed, he took over becoming the owner and changing the name, but he kept all of the skilled staff. His journey to the jewelry trade wound through other professions. “I’ve sold things from insurance to appliances, but was miserable because these were things customers had to buy,” said McAuley. McAuley’s is a one-stop-shop for all of your jewelry wants and needs. Custom
designs are a specialty at McAuley’s, but previously loved (consignment) jewelry is also sold. Watch and jewelry repairs are done on-site by experienced staff members. McAuley’s will also purchase gold from you. Find it on Facebook at McAuley Fine Jewelry and enter its random drawing each month for a chance to win a featured piece of jewelry. Gladys Zenquis recommended McAuley Fine Jewelry on Facebook. “We only have them take care of our jewelry. Not only the great customer service and communication, but also how they treat every piece of jewelry like if it was their own. If you’re going to be needing something fixed or even cleaned.... this is the place to come,” she commented. Hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit McAuley Fine Jewelry at 664 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. You can reach them at 689-8124. Visit www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com.
Page 49
Hand-crafted Bath, Body & Facial Products • Products hand-crafted and created by a
Licensed Clinical Aesthetician • We use all-natural ingredients for our products “Where your skin is our business.” • Our gift baskets are not just for the Holidays, Veteran Family Owned Business but great gifts for all occasions or that Serving the Greater Brandon Community special someone Since 2004
Order online at actskintherapy.com or email info@actskintherapy.com Jewelry is pretty, but I love when it is meaningful too. Often it is the giver who makes it meaningful. Origami Owl Jewelry is both. Through Charms and Swarovski Crystals you can create a locket that captures a special story that represents personal memories, family members, and friends, makes a great gift or keep it for yourself. Visit my web site to create your Virtual locket with our New Locket Builder program.
Becky Goble, Origami Owl Independent Designer Phone: 813-390-3190 Email: itspursonal@aol.com
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Page 50
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 12
December 2019
Page 51
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Center Place Presents Its Third Annual Christmas Card Lane
Families Welcome At 36th Annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade & Chili Cook-Off
Center Place else can you get Fine Arts & Civic such fantastic, Association upbeat advertis(Center Place) will ing for an entire kick off the holiday month at the low season with its cost of $50? You Third Annual get to place your Christmas Card giant Christmas Lane. Local busicard where everynesses, families, one drives by and artists and area sees it. This organizations will shows true comparticipate in this munity involveholiday event by Be among the many businesses and organiza- ment and brings creating giant holi- tions, including Winthrop Arts, who will partici- holiday spirit to pate in Center Place's 3rd Annual Christmas day cards. The Brandon." Lane. Your special holiday message will be cards will line the Card Rodriguez seen by thousands as the cards are on display streets along S. added, "Center throughout the holiday season. Parsons Ave. and Place is dressing around Clayton Lake near Center up the community for the holidays with Place. The holiday cards will be on dis- an array of giant holiday cards. Load play from Monday, December 2 until up the car and bring the whole family New Year's Day. to Center Place to see these giant, To create a card, please call beautiful cards." Center Place at 685-8888. You can Rodriguez said, "Everyone can download the application by visiting participate in this fun event. www.centerplacebrandon.org. The Organizations including schools, civic entry fee is $50 with all funds raised organizations, neighborhood groups, benefitting Center Place and its arts scouts and families can create the programming. All cards must be picked cards and then scores of people will up between Friday, January 3, 2020 get to enjoy them all season long." and Monday, January 6, 2020. Center Place is a 501(c)(3) nonLisa Rodriguez, marketing director profit that has been serving the Greater for Center Place, said, "This is a wonBrandon area since 1976. Center derful event for businesses to particiPlace is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. pate in and help the community celein Brandon. For more information on brate the holidays. Making your card Center Place, Christmas Card Lane can be a team building experience. and other upcoming events, please You get to create your own special visit www.centerplacebrandon.org or message for the community. Where call 685-8888.
The Rotary Club nor elect 2020 for the of FishHawkRotary Club of Riverview is pleased FishHawk-Riverview. to announce the 36th “Our very generous annual Alafia Lighted sponsors help make Boat Parade and this event a success.” Chili Cook-Off, which The title sponsor will be held on for this event Saturday, December The 36th annual Alafia Lighted is Christopher 7 from 5-8 p.m. at the Boat Parade is being held on Ligori & Saturday, December 7 Riverview Civic Associates, Center. There is nothing better than celeAttorneys At brating a Florida Christmas than sitting Law. Other along the river while watching the boats sponsors and community supporters adorned with holiday lights and music include River’s Edge Bar and Grill, Bill’s pass by on the water. Prescription Center, Four Paws This family-friendly event is the perVeterinary Hospital, Fist Baptist fect way to jump start the joy of the holiRiverview, Serenity Meadows and days. In addition to the boat parade, you Hawthorne Village. will be able to sample and vote for your “We are a charitable organization, favorite chili at the Chili Cook-Off for a $5 and this event benefits the community,” donation. Santa will also be available for said Broussard. “We are looking for sponphotos and is taking notes on who is sors at several levels and boats to parade naughty and nice. down the Alafia for the benefit of many The parade of lighted boats will start onlookers.” at the 301 bridge at 5:45 p.m. and will There are several levels of sponsorcontinue past the Civic Center to 15 minship available and boaters are encourutes past the Beer Shed, then circling aged to participate by decorating their back to end at River’s Edge Bar and Grill, boats and partaking in the parade. Those where the award ceremony for the best who want to compete for prize money are decorated boats will be held. Last year, asked to donate $25, although boaters do more than 30 boats participated in the not have to compete to participate. The parade. Other activities during the best decorated boat will win $500 and evening will include a gingerbread house bragging rights. The Riverview Civic competition, a 50/50 raffle that will benefit Center is located at 11020 Park Dr. in county parks as well as music, fun and Riverview. For more info, contact Michael refreshments. Broussard at michael.broussard@flyin“I enjoy seeing all the fun that the glocksmiths.com or visit www.alafiaboatfamilies have at this event every year,” parade.com, where you can register for said Michael Broussard, assistant goverthe events online.
By Kathy L. Collins
By Kelly Wise Valdes
BEST OYSTERS AROUND!
Join us for the 36th Annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, December 7th Parade ends HERE! 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place Prize Money for the BEST decorated boats!
All are welcome to participate! www.alafiaboatparade.com
LIVE MUSIC: Friday & Saturday 7pm to 11pm | Sunday 2pm to 6pm KARAOKE: Saturday 2pm to 6pm
Page 52
Volume 18, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Brenda
Top Producer 2002 - 2019
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