Bloomingdale/FishHawk
32 C E L E B R A T I N G
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March 2020 Volume 19, Issue 3 Ph: 657-2418 1 8
Y E A R S
O F
P U B L I S H I N G
Long-Awaited Signal Coming To Lithia Pinecrest And FishHawk Trails Intersection
P O S I T I V E
C O M M U N I T Y
Dr. BBQ To Cook At Pinch A Penny Lithia EGGFest 2020 To Benefit Newsome ROTC
By Libby Hopkins
By Brad Stager
The 10th annual Lithia EGGFest will be held on Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Pinch A Penny Pool Patio Spa, located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. This year’s EGGFest will also feature an appearance from local cooking celebrity Dr. BBQ.
Who doesn’t love food cooked on a grill? The smell of a good barbecue can waft for miles around. The only thing that can make barbecued food taste better is if it’s cooked in a Big Green Egg and helps out a local program. For those of you who would agree with me, you may want to attend the upcoming 10th annual Lithia EGGFest on Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. So what exactly is an EGGFest, you ask? According to FishHawk resident Jim Rutledge, who also owns Pinch A Penny Pool Patio Spa in Lithia, “It’s a party for people who love barbecue and who love to cook in a Big Green Egg while competing in teams against each other.” EGGFest is more than just a BBQ competition. It is designed to build the ‘EGGhead’ community by bringing teams together to create unique menus. Teams will try to outdo their competitors and the attendees are the judges. These EGGheads, who travel from all over the country, will show off their talents on a Big Green Egg, a complete outdoor cooking system that can grill, roast, smoke, bake and so much more. “Eggs used from EGGFest are available at a significant discount,” Rutledge said. “This is the best pricing of the year.” This year’s EGGFest will also feature an appearance and cooking demonstration from local cooking celebrity Dr. BBQ.
“Dr. BBQ will be at EGGFest doing a barbecue cooking demonstration,” Rutledge said. “There will also be various cooking sections going on during the event. Those sections include team competitions and culinary arts.” There will be up to 15 teams competing at this year’s EGGFest, and proceeds from the event will go to the ROTC program at Newsome High School. “The ROTC program is looking to build an obstacle course for their Ranger Division,” Rutledge said. To learn more about the 10th annual Lithia EGGFest, visit www.lithiaeggfest.com. The event is free to attend, but if you’d like to sample the food you will need to purchase a Taster Ticket for $10. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Pinch A Penny Pool Patio Spa in Lithia or by calling 655-3700. The store is located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. EGGFest will be held in front of the store as well.
In This Issue NJHS SUPPORTS RESOURCE CENTER .PG 3 GIRL SCOUTS LUNCHEON ....................... 4 CALENDAR OF EVENTS.......................PG 5 RELAY FOR LIFE EVENTS.....................PG 7 FEED THE BAY ....................................PG 9
EYE ON BUSINESS....................PGS 25‐26 GRIFFIN & ASSOCIATES, P.A. ..........PG 28 CHALKLINES....................................PG 38
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Residents Programs in two estabdepartment, lished commuthe project will nities along yield many Lithia benefits for Pinecrest Rd. residents. in the “This projFishHawk ect is part of area of Lithia the intersection can expect to operation and see some road safety improvements enhancement and new infraprogram and structure to Lithia Pinecrest Rd. will get a new traffic signal and will provide improve their signalized other upgrades at its intersection with Fishhawk Trails Dr. and Hawkpark Blvd. traffic situation access for in the coming months. vehicles moving onto Lithia Pinecrest Hillsborough County is in the Rd. from Hawkpark Blvd. and process of installing a traffic signal on Fishhawk Trails Dr. In addition, the Lithia Pinecrest Rd. where it interproject will allow pedestrians to cross sects with Fishhawk Trails Dr. and Lithia Pinecrest Rd. safely utilizing Hawkpark Blvd. The two intersecting the pedestrian signal features. The roads provide access to Lithia project also provides sidewalk access Pinecrest Rd. for people living in the for pedestrians along the west side of Fish Hawk Trails and FishHawk Lithia Pinecrest Rd. from Hawkpark Ranch housing developments, Dr. to just south of Fishhawk Blvd.,” respectively. Gonzalez wrote in an email. During peak travel times, resiThe project is a Capital dents have difficulty exiting and enter- Improvement Project (CIP) of ing the two communities, which are Hillsborough County and has a price directly across from each other on tag of $1,261,534, with $304,534 of Lithia Pinecrest Rd. that amount allocated toward design Improvements include installing a and land costs, and construction signal at the intersection and improvcosts accounting for the balance of ing the roadways’ turn lanes. The $957,000. It is currently in the design county’s project plans, available for phase, with construction scheduled to viewing online, also call for improvestart in the next few months and conments to comply with traffic intersectinuing until early 2021. tion design standards of the Residents can follow the progress Americans with Disability Act and of this and other transportation and installing a roundabout at the nearby infrastructure projects by accessing Boyette Rd. and Dorman Rd. the Capital Improvement Projects According to Sondra Gonzalez, viewer via Hillsborough County’s webplanning and design manager for site at www.hillsboroughcounty.org, or Hillsborough County’s Capital can call 635-5400 to ask questions.
N E W S
A new AutoZone has broken ground for a 6,800 sq. ft. store in the former BB&T Bank Building at 16531 Fishhawk Blvd. AutoZone provides do-it-yourself repair advice and tools, includings free in-store battery testing, battery charging, oil recycling, Loan-A-Tool® Program and Fix Finder - a simple Check Engine Light tool. Opening date has yet to be announced. For more info, call (800)715-2650.
Hours: Sun-Thurs 5 am - 10 pm • Fri-Sat 5 am - 12 am
16645 Fishhawk Blvd, Lithia • (813) 381-3669
Page 2
Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Law Office of
Griffin & Associates, P.A. 1430 Oakfield Drive • Brandon, Florida 33511
Rachel L. Griffin
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www.egriffinlaw.com
March 2020
Page 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
100 Women Who Care Pick Living For Logan Charity To Raise Distracted Driving Awareness
Student NJHS Project Benefits Women’s Resource Center For Third Year
“The only thing 501(c)(3) nonprofit necessary for the triorganization. umph of evil is for Another good good men to do nothwoman stepped up to ing,” is a quote by do something. Edmund Burke from Melanie Jordy of the 1700s. However, FishHawk started many believe it is just Operation Lotus after as relevant today her husband died. regarding an epidemThe mission of her 100 Women Who Care present a check nonprofit is to help ic pervasive in our to the Living for Logan Foundation. technologically other families going obsessed culture. We’ve through a traumatic event. probably all been a part of That is how she met it; glance at our phone to Jordan and Brooke answer the text, look to see who’s calling, Scherer. “I now serve as the executive or check our emails while driving. We director for Living for Logan,” said Jordy. only looked away from the road for a cou- “We have been given the opportunity to ple of seconds. What harm could that do? produce an educational video for On September 15, 2016, a driver Hillsborough County schools to educate was doing just that when he ran at more students during their HOPE classes than 100 miles per hour into the back of about the dangers of distracted driving.” an SUV stuck in a traffic jam on I-75 near The good didn’t stop there. Jordy is Brooksville. That distracted driver forever also a member of the changed the life of a Riverview family. Riverview/FishHawk chapter of 100 Their 9-year-old son and brother, Logan, Women Who Care. Debbie Matice, a was killed instantly. That tragedy turned local Keller-Williams realtor, said she into a cause as the Scherer family strugbegan this chapter because, “I wanted to gled to deal with the senseless loss of do something for the community but Logan: “If we let his death define us as didn’t have a lot of time to volunteer. humans and do nothing with our survival On January 28, a check in the and our story, then his death is in vain.” amount of $3,450 was presented to Jordy This good family did do something as a representative for the Living for and established the Living for Logan Logan Foundation. An additional donation Foundation not only to honor Logan but of $1,725 was approved by the Richard also to work toward eliminating the deadly M. Schultz Family Foundation, bringing epidemic of distracted drivers through the total to $5,175. education, legislation and changing For more ways to get involved, visit hearts, minds and habits of drivers every- www.livingforlogan.org or www.facewhere. The foundation is a tax-exempt book.com/100WWCRiverviewFishhawk.
Day, students arrived at Walmart, on the corner of Lithia Pinecrest and Lumsden Rds. Each student was given an item to buy and a budget to stay within. The students had an opportunity to use their math skills to calculate how much could be purchased and what items provided the greatest value. At the end of their shopping spree, they From left to right: Callie Hancock, Sammy Patel, Cynde checked out and loaded the Hardy, Olivia Levine and Libby Morrill packing the truck supplies into a truck, which with the food just bought from Walmart. was then driven back to the Last month, Randall center’s food pantry. Middle School’s National “I love this project Junior Honor Society (NJHS) because our students get to assisted the Women’s see the impact that they can Resource Center (WRC) of make on their community,” Brandon for the third year in a said Cydne Hardy, teacher row, helping make a difference sponsor of NJHS. for those in need. The center established a Every year, NJHS creates a haunted food pantry to assist families by providing house fundraiser. This Halloween, NJHS a week’s worth of food and hygiene students continued the tradition. The items. After the donation from the NJHS, group built a haunted house that students the WRC was able to provide food for 90 paid to visit during their lunch period. families over a period of about two Each visit through the Haunted House months. cost $3. By the end of the day, the stu“For the past three years, NJHS has dents had raised about $2,600. bridged the gap for us when our food The proceeds were then chosen to pantry was running very low. We are so be donated to the WCR for the third year grateful for Randall’s NJHS for choosing in a row. Every year, the center uses the us,” said Cheryl Hickman, founder of the funds to buy food for their food pantry. Women’s Resource Center of Tampa. However, what made this event even For more information about the more meaningful for the students was WRC, visit wrctampa.org. Randall Middle that they got to participate in procuring School is located at 16510 FishHawk the items needed for the pantry. Blvd. and can be reached at 740-3900. On January 20, Martin Luther King Jr.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Voice Of Siri Is Special Speaker At 2020 Women Of Distinction Luncheon
Staff Report
Girl Scouts of West Central Florida (GSWCF) is proud to announce its 2020 Women of Distinction honorees. Colleen Chappell, APR, Susan Bennett, the Commissioner original voice of Siri is the keynote speaker. Kathleen Peters, Dr. Lauren Weiner and Dr. Tonjua Williams are the group’s Women of Distinction. Jessica Rivelli is the Woman of Promise, a deserving woman under the age of 40. The esteemed Adelaide ‘Alex’ Sink is the Hall of Fame inductee, a previous Woman of Distinction who continues to serve her community. The 29th annual Women of Distinction Luncheon will be held at 12 Noon on Thursday, March 19 at the Hilton Tampa Downtown. This event honors and celebrates local women whose professional accomplishments make them positive role models who inspire girls to achieve their own goals and dreams. They exemplify the Girl Scout Promise and Law through ethical leadership and a commitment to make a difference in the lives of their fellow citizens through community service. The keynote speaker for the 2020 Women of Distinction Luncheon is Susan Bennett—the original voice of Siri. The ‘Best Known Unknown’ voiceover actor
Expiration: 3.31.2020
will share her fascinating story about the history of Siri and the impact of the internet and technology on all of our lives Colleen Chappell, APR, and busipresident and CEO of nesses. ChappellRoberts, is one All proof the Women of ceeds from Distinction honorees at the Women this year’s 2020 Girl Scouts luncheon. of Distinction Luncheon will support the Rising Diamonds Outreach Girl Scout program. The Rising Diamond program ensures that every girl, regardless of her family’s socioeconomic status, has the opportunity to participate in Girl Scouting in order to develop successful leadership and life skills. For more information about the 2020 Women of Distinction Luncheon and to purchase tickets, visit www.gswcf.org and click on the events tab. Founded in 1912, Girl Scouts is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls with nearly 2.5 million girl and adult members worldwide. GSWCF offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, skill-building, community service and personal success. To join, visit www.gswcf.org or call 800-881GIRL.
Volume 19, Issue 3
The Annie Etheridge Detached Tent #14 Gives Presentation On Women’s Suffrage
By Libby Hopkins
The year 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing and protecting women’s constitutional right to vote. This historic centennial offers an unparalleled opportunity to commemorate a Members of the Annie Etheridge Detached Tent #14, part of milestone of democracy the Daughter of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, recently celebrated the anniversary of the 19th Amendment. and to explore its rele“To become eligible for membership, you vance to the issues of equal rights today. must furnish with your application, a comThe Annie Etheridge Detached Tent plete war record of your ancestor and #14 recently gave a presentation on this proof of lineage. My second great-grandhistorical vote at the Hilton Garden Inn in father, Isaiah Pecht, was a private in Tampa East/Brandon. “The most recent presentation was given by Jan Bassett on Company-A, 49th Regiment, PA Infantry. women’s suffrage,” said Kate Davidheiser He was wounded at the Battle of the Wilderness in Virginia.” of the Annie Etheridge Detached Tent The Annie Etheridge Detached Tent #14. “The Annie Etheridge Detached Tent #14 was chartered March 4, 2018. The #14 holds four meetings a year, and each Daughters of Union Veterans’ Tents are meeting includes a speaker or a presennamed after Union Army Nurses. Anna tation.” ‘Gentle Annie’ The Annie Etheridge Detached Tent Etheridge was born on May 3, 1839 #14 is part of the Daughter of the Union in Detroit, Michigan and died on January Veterans of the Civil War. The Daughters 23, 1913. “Annie was one of only two of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861women awarded the Kearny Cross, 1865 was organized on May 30, 1885 by named in honor of General Phillip Olive Howard, Harriet Knapp, Eva Kearney for ‘noble sacrifice and heroic Merwin, Frank Merwin and Bertha Martin. service’ to the Union Army during the Civil “We are daughters, granddaughters War,” Davidheiser said. and great-granddaughters of any generaOn August 18, 1920, the 19th tion of honorably discharged soldiers and Amendment to the Constitution was finalsailors who served in the Union Army, ly ratified, enfranchising all American Navy or Marine Corps and Revenue women and declaring for the first time Cutter Service during the Rebellion of that they, like men, deserve all the rights 1861 to 1865, and those who died or and responsibilities of citizenship. were killed while serving in the armed To learn more about the Daughters of services of the Union between April 12, Union Veterans, visit www.duvcw.org. 1861 and April 9, 1865,” Davidheiser said.
Expiration: 3.31.2020
Expiration: 3.31.2020
March 2020
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Free Music Makers Workshops
The Florida Academy of Performing Arts offers free workshops for kids ages 4-10 to learn about musical instruments. Programs held at Music Showcase on 402 Oakfield Dr., Brandon Workshop dates are Saturdays, March 7, April 4, May 16, September 12, October 10, November 15 and December 5 from 9:30-11 a.m. Register online at FAOPA.org.
Parents Night Out
Denise Graf
jhurst@ospreyobserver.com
Carole Fluhart
Vendor and yard sal. Saturday, March 7 from 8 a.m.-12 Noon at 4929 Bell Shoals Rd., Riverview. For more information, visit www.myoverflowchurch.com or chris@myoverflowchurch.com. All proceeds benefit children and youth ministries.
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RIVERVIEW ADVERTISING
Overflow Church Market
PUBLISHING POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS THROUGHOUT BLOOMINGDALE/FISHHAWK RIVERVIEW • APOLLO BEACH BRANDON • VALRICO
The Florida Academy of Performing Arts and Music Showcase are hosting parents’ night out events throughout the school year for kids ages 5-12. The night includes dinner, snacks, games, crafts, movies and more. The cost is $20 for children already enrolled in program/lesson, $25 for children not enrolled in program, $10 per additional sibling. Dates are Fridays, March 6, April 3, May 29, August 28, September 25, October 23 and December 5 from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr., Brandon Register at FAOPA.org or call 490-2787.
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.
Alzheimer’s Association And Dementia Caregiver Support Groups
Join us in the Tessera of Brandon event center every second Wednesday at 2 p.m. and every third Monday at 7 p.m. 1320 Oakfield Dr., Brandon; call 607-6880 Join us at Campo Family YMCA every third Friday through May at 1:30 p.m. 3414 Culbreath Rd., Valrico
Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pet Foods
Saturday, March 7; 11 a.m.-12 Noon Kim’s Natural Pet Foods, 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.
Compost, Microirrigation And Rainwater Harvesting Workshops
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Saturday, March 7; UF/IFAS Extension in Hillsborough County 5339 CR 579, Seffner Attend one or all workshops. Compost attendees receive a compost bin and more Microirrigation attendees receive a micro kit and more. Rainwater harvesting attendees will receive a rain barrel. Pre-registration required: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming events/. Small fee per household.
Grey Matters Toastmasters
First and third Thursday of the 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/.
Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group
Rendee Hughes Broker Associate
Thursday, March 12, Tuesday, April 7, Thursday, April 23 and Thursday, May 7. HCC campus at The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd., Riverview. Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking Social Security benefits; perfect for ages 58-67. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave a message after 4:30 p.m.
Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting
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Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m. Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza, Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President, at 767-1569
Parkinson's Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon
Third Tuesday of the month; 6 p.m. Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.
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Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
The Rotary Club Of Brandon Presents Its 44th Annual Wild Game Dinner
By Kathy L. Collins
The Rotary Club of Brandon will hold its 44th annual Wild Game Dinner on Friday, March 6 from 6 to 11 p.m. at Boggy Bottom Ranch, located at 8407 Lupton Pl. in Plant City. Attendees will feast The Rotary Club on all sorts of wild of Brandon’s 44th game, delicious sides annual Wild and can enjoy an Game Dinner with freshly hunted open bar. All prowild game, ceeds from the event fantastic silent benefit local nonprofauction items to fund seven local its supported by the nonprofits. members of the Rotary Club of Brandon. Tickets to the event are $100 each. This gets you your dinner, the open bar and complimentary beverages. There is also a VIP option for just $150. With the VIP option, you get special seating. This is the 44th year of this muchanticipated annual event. J. J. Massaro, longtime member of the club, explained where the wild game is procured. “Every year, John Sellers takes a group of Rotarians to Alliance, Nebraska for [a] week to hunt deer, pheasants and ducks for the event. In addition, members get to hunt locally for wild pork.” At the dinner, you can also enjoy gator, catfish, clams and Lupton’s famous sides. As this is a fundraiser, no event would be completed without door prizes, a silent auction and 50/50. The members of the Rotary Club of Brandon do a fantastic job of securing fabulous auction
items. Last year, the club had over 63 items, including a 2004 Lightning hockey stick that was signed by the Stanley Cup-winning team. This year, it is expected to be just as grand. It will have a jersey signed by Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning, other signed hockey sticks and more. There is certain to be something for every one on the silent auction, such as sports memorabilia, hunting gear and gift certificates of all kinds. Massaro said, “The Rotary Club of Brandon takes pride in raising money for local nonprofits. Our club makes a big impact in the community.” In addition to the Wild Game Night, which is the club’s biggest fundraiser of the year, The Rotary Club of Brandon hosts a golf tournament and a clay shoot. Funds from these combined events, have allowed the Rotary Club of Brandon to award over $100,000 to seven area nonprofits including the Boys and Girls Club of Riverview, the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, Boy Scouts of America, The Outreach Clinic, ECHO, Good Samaritan Mission and Grow Into Your Foundation. For more information on the club and the Wild Game Dinner, please visit www.brandonrotary.org.
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Grammy Nominated Danny Gokey Brings Unplugged Tour To Bell Shoals
Staff Report
GRAMMYYour Heart to Beat nominated artist Again” earned RIAA Danny Gokey is Gold Certification in thrilled to be May 2018. Gokey’s bringing the Christmas album, Unplugged: Christmas Is Here, Stories & Songs and his most recent Tour to Bell studio album, Rise Shoals Baptist (released in 2017), Church in also debuted at Brandon on number one on the Danny Gokey will perform at Bell Shoals. Friday, March 27 Billboard charts and at 7 p.m. with special guest Coby James. garnered the chart movers Rise, The Gokey will be performing all of his Comeback, Masterpiece and If You Ain’t fan favorite songs from Christian radio as In It. well as new music off his album, Haven’t Gokey has earned multiple award Seen It Yet. Tickets are on sale now, nominations, including American Country ranging from $14.95 (group) to $75 VIP Awards’ New/Breakthrough Artist of the tickets, which include a pre-show photo Year, GMA Dove Awards’ New Artist of opportunity and first entry into the venue the Year and Song of the Year, for the best seats. More information Contemporary Christian Artist of the Year about this concert can be found at and Song of the Year, Pop/Contemporary https://transparentproductions.com/event Album of the Year and s/danny-gokey-tampa. Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year, Gokey became a favorite among mil- Christmas Album of the Year and GRAMlions of fans as a top three finalist on MY Awards’ Best Contemporary season eight of American Idol. In 2010, Christian Music Album, among several Gokey released his debut album, My others. Best Days, which garnered record firstGokey is the founder of Better Than I week retail and digital album sales for a Found It, formerly known as Sophia’s male debut artist in his musical genre Heart, a nonprofit organization estaband peaked at number four on the lished to support and encourage organiBillboard 200 albums chart. In 2014, zations that are committed to making a Gokey released his second album, Hope difference in the world or their communiin Front of Me, debuting at number one ties to go to the next level for exponential on Billboard Christian Airplay Chart. His impact. And on an individual level, the single, “Hope in Front of Me,” topped the goal is to help and encourage each perBillboard Christian Airplay, Mediabase son to get involved in their communities, Christian Adult Contemporary and no matter how small the opportunity, to Billboard Christian AC Songs charts. “Tell create meaningful changes.
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March 2020
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Still Time To Get Your Walking Shoes On For Relay For Life
By Gwen Rollings
Do you donations and ever wonawareness for der if only cancer research one person but equally to celcan make ebrate cancer any difference in the At Relay for Life, survivors and families rally around the hope that all cancers will be fight against cured. cancer? In 1985, Dr. Gordy Klatt, a Tacoma, survivors, Washington surgeon, ran more than 83 their caremiles around the University of Puget takers and Sound track for 24 hours and raised to show support for everyone whose life $27,000 for his local American Cancer has been touched in some way by this Society. In the following year, 220 people devastating disease. of 19 teams joined him, and a worldwide The event lasts an entire day to recphenomenon was born. ognize that when someone has cancer, it In 1994, Relay for Life became the does not stop; the disease is present American Cancer Society’s signature around the clock. To participate for 24 event. Fast forward over 30 years and hours, teams camp overnight and particinow the Relay for Life movement raises pants take turns running or walking laps more than $400 million each year, and normally around a local athletic track. You more than 5,000 Relay for Life events can find a local team to join or create your take place in over 20 countries. This is a own. monumental accomplishment, but it still Relay events takes place in cities begins with one person, one team, one and small towns worldwide usually in this community for one purpose: to attack and order: pre-fundraising, meeting with your defeat cancer. team, opening ceremony, survivor and According to Tammy Schoonover, caregiver laps, time to celebrate, lighting senior community development manager the luminaries and then the closing cerein Tampa, “The American Cancer Society mony. puts these donations to work, investing in Check out one of these local Relay groundbreaking research in every type of for Life events to participate in: cancer and providing free information and SouthShore at Lennard High School on services to cancer patients and their care- Friday and Saturday, March 27 and 28, givers.” Sun City Center at the Freedom Plaza on Relay for Life events will begin here Thursday, April 2 and at Riverview High soon, and maybe you’ve thought about School on Saturday, April 4. getting involved. Each person matters You can register and connect with a and has a part in not only helping to raise local team through www.relayforlife.org.
Page 7
Greater Brandon Charity To Hold Its 18th Annual Golf Classic
By Bethany Mattacchione
The 18th annual Greater Brandon Charity Golf Classic will be held on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28, hosted by the Angel Foundation FL. New this year, the Forcon International Casino Night and Pairings Party on March 27 is open to the public and tickets are $50 per person. The event will be held at The Regent in Riverview and tickets include food, drinks and casino-style gaming, as well as the opportunity for players to bid on ‘celebrities’ to play with at the tournament. The Celebrity Pro Am Golf Tournament begins on March 28 at 11 a.m. with a welcome reception and is followed by a shotgun start at 1 p.m. In keeping with tradition, golfers will enjoy competitive challenges, raffles, refreshments at the Bahama Breeze Party Tent and an award ceremony after the tournament. “This is the 18th year the foundation has hosted the Charity Golf Classic, and I'm excited that we are growing every year,” said Liz Brewer, the executive director. “We are thankful to our title sponsors like Forcon International and The Bank of Tampa, who return every year to support this event, as well as new sponsors who have joined us in 2020. Together, we can raise the funds
needed to help even more families in 2020.” Proceeds from the event will benefit the Angel Foundation’s Angel Program, which helps families in the Greater Brandon community affected by a life-threatening illness or catastrophic event. When a family faces a terminal diagnosis or catastrophic event, their primary focus is caring for their loved ones. The practical day-to-day things often taken for granted when all is well are no longer a priority, but they still must be done. The Angel Foundation partners with local businesses and individuals in the community to meet those practical needs. Every family goes through a home assessment led by an ‘Angel Team’ to determine their needs. If a financial need exists, the nonprofit will assist them on a temporary basis until they can get back on their feet. Since 2006, the foundation has helped more than 850 families in a variety of ways. For more information about the foundation and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.AngelFoundationFl.com or call 689-6889.
Page 8
Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
l, a i c o S k c o r m & a o Sh c n u B es, t t e v r o C More
year, the group has supported A Kid’s Place, Outreach Clinic, Campo YMCA, Cards for the Troops, Center Place, Apostles Village, Family Promise, Seeds of Hope, e ir m ay nielle W com a Real Hope Ministries, D y b r. ed ve Compil @ospreyobser Canine Companions e ir dwaym and St. Francis Society and has provided books, educational activities, food, clothing and shoes for Title I elementary school children. Democratic Women’s Club To Host For tickets, contact Claudia Yake at Kevin Beckner, County Clerk 685-7998 or Sue Hadden at 334-7293.
Candidate
Kevin Beckner, candidate for Hillsborough county Clerk of the Circuit Courts, will be the guest speaker at the Thursday, March 5 meeting of the Democratic Women’s Club of Southeast Hillsborough County. The group will meet from 6-8 p.m. at Grace Community United Methodist Church, located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.
Tampa Selected For U.S. Navy Band Tour
Choices Annual Golf Tournament With Helicopter Drop
Choices, formerly known as the LifeCare Network, will hold its annual golf tournament fundraiser on Friday, March 6 at the newly renovated River Hills Country Club in Valrico. Check-in begins at 11 a.m. and is followed by lunch and a helicopter golf ball drop. The shotgun start is at 12:45 p.m. The registration fee is $150 per per-
The United States Navy Band is coming to Tampa during its 2020 tour at the Straz Center for Performing Arts on Thursday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m. The band will perform music ranging from tradition wind band repertoire to broadway showstoppers, rhythm and blues, pop and patriotic favorites. The event is free and open The United States Navy Band is coming to the Straz to the public; get tickets by comCenter for Performing Arts. pleting the order form at https://strazcenter.org/Events/Straz/Show son and includes golfing, lunch, dinner, a s/1920_Music/United-States-Navy-Band. shirt, a goody bag and contests along the golf course. The G.F.W.C. Valrico Service League, The nonprofit exists to lead those Inc. Presents ‘Puttin’ On The Ritz they serve to know Christ, protect the Bunco’ sanctity of human life and promote bibliCome join the G.F.W.C. Valrico cal-based sexuality according to God’s Service League’s ‘Putting on the Ritz plan for marriage. For more information, Bunco’ for a night of fun on Thursday, visit https://empoweredtochoose.net. March 5. Social time/dinner is from 5:30To register or become a sponsor for 6:15 p.m. with bunco starting at 6:15 the golf fundraiser, please contact Jessica p.m., to be held at Rickenbach at The Bridges jessica@choicRetirement Center, esclinics.org or located at 11202 654-0491. The Dewhurst Dr. in River Hills Riverview. Tickets Country Club is cost $20 and include located at 3943 a light dinner, drinks New River Hills and prizes. Pkwy. in Valrico. Proceeds help support local school Local Kids The G.F.W.C. Valrico Service League’s children and families Gym Opens ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz Bunco’ will take place in need in our comTo The Public on Thursday, March 5 at The Bridges munity. In the past Retirement Center.
To Raise Money For Child With Disabilities
My Gym Children’s Fitness Center and The My Gym Foundation in Brandon are raising money for 1-year-old Nolan Ray, who has cerebral palsy and cortical visual impairment. The funds raised will allow for the purchase of a Firefly Playpak, an upright mobility device designed to allow children with motor impairments to sit up, stand and move. The fundraiser will be held at the My Gym Children’s Fitness Center, located at 2060 Badlands Dr. in Brandon, on Saturday, March 7 from 2-3:30 p.m. There will be a bubble machine, ball pit, rock wall, gymnastics, trampoline, games and age-appropriate activities for children to have fun while raising money for a good cause. There is a suggested donation of $7 per child. If you wish to donate, you can visit www.mygymfoundation.org or write ‘Nolan Fay fundraiser’ in the notes.
Brandon Blvd., Ste. 114 in Brandon. Call 438-5963 for more information or to reserve your spot.
Baby Shower For Choices Women’s Center Of Brandon
Brandon Christian Women’s Connection is giving a baby shower for Choices Women’s Center of Brandon on Tuesday, March 10 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The event will take place at the group’s next luncheon, ‘Diapers, Dimples and Duckies,’ at Buckhorn Springs Country Club. Members explained that it will be a fun and joyous occasion to shower those in need who seek out Choices Women’s Center with baby needs of all kinds. Gifts will include diapers, wipes, bibs, bottles, blankets, gift cards and baby clothes up to size 2T. There will be games with prizes together with lunch and a guest inspirational speaker. Tickets are $10 for firsttime guests and $15 for everyone else. The country club Win A Stingray is located at Chevrolet Corvette 2721 South At The Strawberry Miller Rd. in Festival Valrico. This A 2020 Chevrolet is a nondeCorvette will be raffled nominational off on Sunday, March event and 8 at 5 p.m. at Stingray Chevrolet’s vehicle Stingray Chevrolet is raffling off a 2020 Corvette no memberat this year’s Strawberry Festival. ship is display on the Florida required, but please make a reservation Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds. (and don’t forget your unwrapped baby Tickets for the raffle are $5 each and gift) with Lillie at 740-0098. are available for purchase online until 3 p.m. or through 6 p.m. in person by Vehicle Registration Can Now Be Friday, March 6 at the Stingray Chevrolet Renewed At Three Publix Locations dealership in Plant City. Because renewing your vehicle regisTickets can be purchased for all 11 tration should also be a pleasure, three days of the festival at the Stingray Publix locations in Hillsborough County Chevrolet vehicle display until 4:40 p.m now host tax collector self-service kiosks. on Sunday, March 8. The new kiosk program, Florida MV There is a maximum of 50 tickets per Express, allows customers to get a new person and you do not have to be presregistration card and license plate sticker ent to win. in a matter of minutes, as opposed to All proceeds will benefit Unity in the Community, a Plant City organization that several days. The blue and yellow kiosks will be available at the grocery chain’s contributes to local youth organizations Citrus Park location at 7835 Gunn Hwy. in and groups that provide assistance to Tampa, Plant City’s Walden Woods store underprivileged families. at 2202 James L. Redman Pkwy. and the Lake Brandon Plaza Publix at 11255 Shamrock Social Causeway Blvd. Get into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit The kiosk program soft-launched last with a magical evening filled with dancing, music, professional demonstrations and a February at four tax collector locations in Brandon, Drew Park, North Tampa and St. Patty’s line dance. Come dressed in Ruskin and has already processed your favorite green clothing or you just 20,000 vehicle registrations. might get pinched. This event is free and While you can still register your vehiis for singles and couples alike. cle online or at a tax collector branch, neiFriday, March 13 at 7:30 p.m is the time of the Newcomers Group Class, fol- ther of those options come with the ability to take home a Publix chicken tender lowed by the Shamrock Social at 8:00 sub. p.m. For more information, visit The event will be held at Fred Astaire https://flmvexpresskiosk.com/. Dance Studios, located at 1076 E.
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March 2020
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 9
Feed The Bay Replenishes Local Food Banks With One Day Outreach
Bloomingdale High School’s Rajun’ Bull Marching Band And Color Guard Host Annual Silent Auction
In just one day, receive as an Feed the Bay helps agency.” replenish food She continpantries across the ued, “Feed the Tampa Bay area. Bay is a testimoWhat began as an ny to the power outreach at Bay of the church Life Church in 2006 venturing out of now includes multidenominational ple churches from lines and truly various denominaworking together tions and hundreds toward one comof volunteers. mon cause. It is Pictured are volunteers from last year’s Feed The annual an opportunity to the Bay event at the Publix in FishHawk. outreach returns bring a large this year on Sunday, group of volunteers March 15 from 9 a.m.together, exposing 2 p.m. Since its existhem to the mission of tence, the community ECHO.” outreach has collectLast year, Feed ed nearly two million the Bay collected pounds of food for 109,923 pounds of local pantries and community agencies. food from 14 Publix locations and $4,600 Feed the Bay partners with Publix in gift cards. The collaborative effort Super Markets, which provide shoppers included 29 church campuses and 12 with a list of requested food items. After community agencies, totaling 626 volunthe shoppers purchase the food, volunteers. teers are on-site to collect the food items Volunteers must be 14 years old, but and load them onto trailers. Then, truck children are welcome to participate alongdrivers deliver the items to the different side a parent. To volunteer or see a list of agencies, where other volunteers are onparticipating Publix Super Markets, site to unload. churches and agencies, visit Since day one, Eleanor Saunders www.feedthebay.org. has been a part of Feed the Bay as a volIf you are unable to participate during unteer from Bay Life and an employee of the event but still want to contribute, gift the Emergency Care Help Organization cards from any supermarket may be (ECHO). In 2006, ECHO was the first dropped off at the Bay Life Church office recipient agency of Feed the Bay. on 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. For Saunders said, “It is incredible to give questions, contact Melanie Langston at as a church member and humbling to mlangston@baylife.org.
A harmoThe group is nious sound looking for donaresonated tions for the silent throughout the auction from local field recently as businesses and the residents, in Bloomingdale addition to items High School’s procured by band Rajun’ Bull and color guard Marching Band members. and Color The band, Guard lined up which mainto perform in tains a tradifront of a large tion of 33 Bloomingdale High School’s Rajun’ Bull Marching Band crowd. This years of and Color Guard is hosting a award-winning superior perfundraiser trivia event and organization, formances silent auction next month at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Grill. consisting of throughout more than 220 musicians, color the world, guards and supporting volunteers, holds multiwill gather together for its spring ple fundraisers throughout the year to silent auction and trivia night at fund its many activities. O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Grill in “Overall, the Rajun’ Bull Marching Brandon on Saturday, April 4. Band and Color Guard is a proud This is the second annual event, supporter of community events and which consists of a silent auction enjoys representing the community starting at 4 p.m. and trivia at 5 p.m. year-round,“ Fenn said. The group’s first auction also Trivia at O’Brien’s costs $10 a took place at O’Brien’s last year and person for 10 rounds and up to eight was a great success. people can play on a team. Prizes Auction Chair member and Band will be given for first and second Booster Brandye Fenn explained the place, along with best team name. A motivation for the fundraiser. 50/50 drawing will be available too. “The silent auction will help with This family-friendly event is open to student band fees, uniform purchasthe community. es and instrument repairs,” said O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Grill is Fenn, whose daughter, a junior at located at 701 W. Lumsden Rd. in Bloomingdale, is in the wind ensemBrandon. Contact Brandye Fenn at ble and plays the trumpet in the rajunbullband@mail.com for more marching band and the jazz band. information.
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Page 10
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 19, Issue 3
Brooker Elementary’s Miranda Harwood Wins Hillsborough Teacher Of The Year
O
w N ne ew rs hi p
By Amy Schechter
The evening the to help struggling students Hillsborough Education with their math skills. It’s Foundation announced rewarding for her to see the her name as the overall change in her students, winner of the School many of which “come in with District of Hillsborough some preconceived notion of County’s Excellence in ‘I hate math’ and switch to Education Teacher of loving it and loving school in the Year award is still a general.” bit surreal for Miranda When asked about what Harwood. Speaking it felt like to be recognized with Harwood, it’s easy for her efforts, the 14-year to see how, from nearly Brooker Elementary School’s veteran gushed about the Miranda Harwood was 300 nominees, the home she’s found at Brooker recently named Hillsborough fourth grade math and Elementary, whose staff County’s Teacher of the science teacher from nominated her for the award: Year. Brooker Elementary was the clear “I think the thing that makes it the most choice. special is the people who are with you “She is literally always there for you. every day. We work with so many great No matter the time, what it is—be it frac- teachers. There are six teachers who tions or having a bad day—she will stop have been at Brooker their entire career. everything to make you feel like the They love it. They are my role models. most important kid,” said Dylan Moore, a When asked what’s next, Harwood student lucky enough to be in her class couldn’t see herself doing anything else. this year. In fact, Harwood was the first After briefly flirting with a pre-med major, to call to check in on Moore after a Harwood followed what her heart had cheerleading accident briefly hospitalknown from the time she was 5 or 6 ized her on Super Bowl Sunday years old. She earned her bachelor’s in nonetheless. It’s just what Harwood elementary education and her master’s does. She goes above and beyond to in reading education from the University care for and encourage her students. of South Florida. She wants everyone to We talked well after the school day know the true reward found in teaching. had ended because Harwood routinely “I wish people would come into the gives up her lunch and stays after classroom for just one day, for just one school tutoring kids. Her Monday afterhour,” she said. Her classroom is defischool Math Clubs are dedicated to nitely a place where you will find magic high-performing students wishing to happen every day. push themselves a bit further, but she Brooker Elementary is located at dedicates her Lunch Bunch and 812 Dewold Rd. in Brandon and can be Wednesday/Thursday tutoring sessions reached at 744-8184.
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March 2020
Page 11
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Start Fresh And Renewed With Nékter In Valrico, Celebrating One Year In Business
Local Minority-Owned Businesses Can Benefit From Super Bowl LV
Nékter Juice Bar in Valrico has been in business for one year, and it is proud that it’s been a year of providing healthy, organic and tasty food and drinks. If you’re someone looking to start fresh and cleanse your body or Nékter uses only fresh and natural ingredients, no artificial just want something additives or junk foods, giving customers a healthy option that’ll leave your taste buds wanting more. good to eat, then this is the perfect place. February, like the Apple Cider Spritzer. At Nékter, you can enjoy juices, Hileman also plans on opening more smoothies, açaí bowls, fusion blends, locations and is looking in the its own take on vegan ice cream called Riverview area. Skoop and Nékter Cleanses, which are The juice bar does catering as well, perfect for detoxing and resetting your which includes an açaí bowl kit that body. All the flavors come from fruits serves six to eight people and a fresh and vegetables; no artificial ingredients juice kit for eight to 12 people. This is are added, so it is all naturally deliperfect for creating your own Nékter cious. experience with your coworkers, friends Scott Hileman, franchise owner of and family. three Nékters, said he opened his first If you download Nékter’s app, you Nékter in Valrico because, “I was familcan get a free smoothie or juice, join iar with the Valrico and FishHawk marthe loyalty program and order ahead of ket, and there wasn’t a whole lot there time so your order is ready on arrival. as far as what we provide. At that spot “I really appreciate the support. where the old Starbucks opened up, I That was our first store open and it’s thought it would be a great spot, and still our best performing store. I’m it’s been very successful.” happy to be there and we like to stay The Açaí Banana Berry Bowl is a involved with the community,” said favorite among customers, and people Hileman. who aren’t sure what they want can be Nékter is open from 7 a.m.-9 p.m., guided by employees to find the best Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m.-9 option for them. Hileman personally p.m. on Sundays. It is located at 3482 enjoys the Health Nut and Turmeric Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, 4009 W. Sunrise smoothies as well as the Toxin Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa and 3236 Little Flush and The Buzz juices. Rd., Ste. 37 in Trinity. For more inforNékter will bring new menu items in mation, visit www.nekterjuicebar.com/.
Hosting what is Hundreds of busiarguably the biggest ness owners attended sporting even in the one of three informaworld, Super Bowl LIV tion sessions at drew an impressive Hillsborough County 200,000 visitors to Entrepreneur South Florida with an Collaborative Center, estimated economic located at 2101 E. impact to the region of Palm Ave. in Tampa. $400M. Welcoming business With Super Bowl owners to the event Business Connect & Community LIV now a Miami Outreach Director LaKendria Robinson was LaKendria memory, the next talking to local small business owners Robinson, director of Super Bowl host city, about opportunities with Super Bowl LV. Business Connect & Tampa, is gearing up for Super Bowl LV, Community Outreach for the Tampa Bay to be played on February 7, 2021 at Super Bowl LV Host Committee. Raymond James Stadium. It was made By the application deadline, which official in February when Super Bowl Host was February 14, hundreds of businessCommittee Chair Rodney Baretto handed es had registered to participate in the prooff the NFL football to Tampa’s Host gram. The host committee will spend the Committee in an official ceremony. next month screening applicants and creBig hotel, restaurant and retail chains ating a final list of businesses that will be in the area will earn big bucks, but they’re profiled in the Business Connect not the only ones. Small businesses can Resource Guide, an online database of cash in too. approved, registered businesses that Business Connect, a joint cooperahelps the NFL, Super Bowl contractors tive between the National Football and event producers to identify and select League, Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host local businesses to partner with to proCommittee and Florida SBDC at duce Super Bowl LV events. Hillsborough County, finds and screens “Even if they don’t end up getting a companies owned by minorities, vetercontract with the Super Bowl, working ans, women and LGBT owners to provide with our organization can help expose their goods and services. them to other opportunities available to Business owners were invited to them,” said Hillsborough County Super Bowl LV Business Connect Entrepreneur Collaborative Center Community Information Sessions to help Manager Lynn Kroesen. The center offers link local diverse business suppliers to entrepreneurs easy access to business Super Bowl LV contracting opportunities service providers, resources, mentorship while also providing a series of networkand specialty training. For more info, call ing and professional development work277-1393 or for the Collaborative Center, shops for all participating businesses. call 204-9267.
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Page 12
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 19, Issue 3
Renowned GEICO Skytypers Air Show Team To Perform In Tampa Bay AirFest 2020
Florida Holocaust Museum Exhibit Tells The Tragic Tale Of Anne Frank
Tampa ward to introducBay AirFest is ing this season’s coming this tactical flight year to once maneuvers alongagain prove side other top that the sky premier military isn’t the limit, and civilian perand the formers.” GEICO 2020 marks Skytypers Air the Blue Angels’ Show Team The GEICO Skytypers Air Show Team releasing 74th year of dispuffs of white smoke to skytype. will show off playing the prothis fact along with the U.S. Navy fessionalism, precision and power of Blue Angels, who will be headlining the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps with the event, and many other performers exemplary naval aviation, and the on Saturday and Sunday, March 28 team of 130 active-duty Sailors and and 29. Marines is proud to represent their The GEICO Skytypers Air Show fellow service members in their misTeam consists of six WWII-era SNJ sion of inspiring fans to achieve aircraft performing 18-minute, lowexcellence and follow their dreams. level, precision-flying demonstrations Other performers at the event in air shows throughout the U.S. this include: the F-22 Demo Team, who year, starting at Tampa Bay AirFest will also team up with the Air Force 2020. The team will perform on both Heritage Flight Foundation; the C-17 days. Globemaster III Demo Team; Michael The GEICO Skytypers ‘skytype’ Goulian; Kirby Chambliss; the Red by creating giant messages in the sky Bull Canopy Pilots; a Red Bull heliusing five aircraft flying in a tight, line- copter with Rainer Wilke; the Paraabreast formation. A computer located Commandos; Wild Blue, the RV-8A of in the lead aircraft sends radio signals Wild Blue Rodeo, LLC; a KC-135 to the other planes, coordinating dot Stratotanker; Jim Tobul and ‘Korean matrix-style messages with environWar Hero,’ his F4U-4 Corsair; Scott mentally-friendly, 1,000-foot-tall puffs ‘Scooter Yoak and his Quick Silver Pof white smoke. 51; Rob Reider; and George Cline “Air show spectators and aviation with AirBoss, Inc. enthusiasts will witness our ‘warbirds’ Tampa Bay AirFest 2020 will take perform a dynamic demonstration place at MacDill Air Force Base on designed by team members who 9211 Marina Bay Dr. in Tampa. Gates served in the U.S. military,” said Larry open at 8 a.m.; admission and park‘Boss’ Arken, squadron commander ing are free. Visit www.tampabayairand team flight lead. “We look forfest.com or call at 828-7469.
said Kristen Davis, director of marketing and public relations. Not only that, but there is also an interactive virtual reality (VR) experience that goes along with this tour. The VR experience by Force Field VR and Oculus Studios allows the viewer to join Anne Frank in her Secret Annex and see was it was like for her The Florida Holocaust Museum is hosting an Anne and her family during those hard Frank exhibit with a virtual reality component this times. month. “The individual virtual reality The Florida Holocaust Museum experience will take you back to 1942(FHM) is bringing the story of well-known 1944, when Anne Frank, her family and holocaust victim Anne Frank to life with its friends were hidden from Nazi persecunew exhibit, ‘Let Me Be Myself: The Life tion in the Secret Annex,” said Davis. Story of Anne Frank.’ “This virtual reality experience takes you The walk-through exhibit is full of on a 360 degree tour of every room in the sights and interactions that allow you to annex, which they have furnished as they go back to the 1930s when World War II were during the war. This virtual reality was just beginning. The exhibit is now experience uses Anne’s quotes to highopen to the public through January 24, light memories and everyday events that 2021. took place during her days spent in the ‘Let Me Be Myself’ tells the story of annex. It takes approximately 25 minAnne Frank in a modern way, addressing utes.” current day issues of identity, exclusion The VR experience is included with and discrimination. Anne Frank’s experithe museum entrance fee, which is $16 ences connect deeply with today’s youth for adults, $14 for seniors, $10 for college as they grow and learn that all actions students and veterans, $8 for students and words matter. Brandon Perdomo, under 18 and free for active U.S. military, exhibit coordinator from the Anne Frank museum members, USF students with ID Center, is an interdisciplinary artist from and children 6 and under. However, New York City. reservations are required at https://bookThe tour allows the attendee to see when.com/flholocaustmuseumvr and the what it might have been like back during experience is available through March. the time of the Holocaust and even see The Florida Holocaust Museum is some artifacts that have been preserved located at 55 5th St. S. in St. Petersburg from that time. and is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Go “The Anne Frank exhibition has been to www.flholocaustmuseum.org/. extremely well received by the public,”
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Page 13
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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The president and CEO of Phoenix House Florida, Maria Alvarez, is excited about the difference it is making in the community. “Phoenix House Florida is proud to be a local nonprofit who has been delivering lifechanging treatment to our Phoenix House Florida is a nonprofit and nationally local community for nearly 30 recognized and accredited program. years,” said Alvarez. “We are Florida seems like a picture-perfect proud to be the expert in the area to paradise with its mild weather, beautiful meet the unprecedented need for beaches and unlimited activities at our access to substance use treatment in fingertips. However, despite these Tampa and the surrounding area.” sunny days, many Floridians suffer from Because everyone is unique, treatvarious types of substance addictions. ment at Phoenix House Florida is indiPhoenix House Florida is a nonvidualized to meet the particular needs profit and nationally recognized and of each patient. Its programming can accredited program, specializing in the accommodate stays from as short as treatment and prevention of substance one week to as long as one year. Also, use and mental health disorders. it has contracted with most insurance Delivering the highest quality of care providers to accept almost all insurance with professionalism and respect, plans. It also offers an affordable selfPhoenix House Florida provides outpay option available. standing and accessible treatment to Phoenix House Florida offers a adults and teens. Over the past eight wide variety of programs and services years, more than 14,000 patients have to meet most clients’ needs, including sought treatment at Phoenix House inpatient and outpatient programs, all of Florida. which utilize the latest evidence-based Phoenix House Florida is accreditpractices. Phoenix House Florida also ed by CARF, the Commission on provides educational and supportive Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, services to family members, friends, a nationally recognized standard of significant others and the community. excellence. In 2012, CARF awarded “Our goal has always been and will Phoenix House Florida accreditation continue to be to help more people live confirming performance at the highest a healthier, more purposeful life in level of excellence, and it is fully recovery,” said Alvarez. licensed by the State of Florida For more information, visit Department of Children and Families. www.phoenixfl.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Newsome Students Give Opportunity For Service With Paws With A Cause
Staff Report
A group of of three students Newsome High twice a day to volunSchool students are teer for the local resusing their time to cue organization— help local furry friends Rescue Cats of in need. The teens Florida at the Lithia started Paws with a PetSmart, which Cause, a volunteer takes animals from kill club providing stushelters. The students dents the opportunity clean kennels, to volunteer their time change litter boxes, Newsome High School’s Paws with a helping animal ressocialize the animals, Cause officers, Hannah Hanson cue organizations, in (secretary), Samantha Dolski (founder aid with the adoption and president) and Carlie Tryon (vice process, set up 2018 with the goal of president) recently attended an finding forever homes PetSmart events and adoption event at the Summerfield for local animals. help with any needed Crossing Sunday Market. Founder Samantha Dolski came up paperwork. The students learn valuable with the idea of the group to help animals skills, including organization, responsibiliwhile allowing high school students to get ty, care and dedication. experience and log volunteer hours. In addition, the Paws with a Cause “The primary aim is to provide high club has led holiday supply drives to colschool students the experience with anilect blankets, food bowls, toys and treats mal care, running adoptions, traditional from the community to donate to various and social media advertising and the gen- rescue shelters, such as Tampa Bay eral rescue process while obtaining volHumane Society. The club members unteer hours in exchange for helping reswork on donation collection and event cue groups,” she said. “Rescues around advertising through Facebook, Twitter, Hillsborough County area are overInstagram, flyers, posters and the whelmed by taking care of homeless aniNewsome Morning Show. mals; the high school volunteers provide The latest event the group attended invaluable support to help in all ways pos- was held at Summerfield Crossing sible.” Sunday Market, where Rescue Cats of “Not only are the rescues able Florida, the Community Pet Project, to process more animals through to Heidi’s Legacy Dog Rescue and adoption, the students are able to learn Newsome’s Paws with a Cause volunwhat it takes to work within a nonprofit teers came together to put on an adoporganization,” Dolski said. tion extravaganza with a dynamic setting The club officers, Dolski, Vice of games, raffles and bouncy houses. President Carlie Tryon and Secretary For more info, visit https://pwacnewHannah Hanson, organize weekend shifts some.wixsite.com/website.
Volume 19, Issue 3
March 2020
Mary Rossano, 100-Years-Old, Spreads Joy With Peanut Butter And Jelly Sandwiches Brandon resident Mary Rossano knows that age is only a number and helping others has no age limit. In March, Rossano will mark a milestone, her 100th birthday, and she remains active by volunteering and keeping busy focusing on family and friends and the difference she is making in the community. Her friend Members and volunteers of Nativity and caretaker Catholic’s Peanut through Seniors Butter and Jelly Helping Seniors, Ministry: Pam Fattore, Debra Caputo, Mary Debra Caputo, Rossano and Rita recently posted a Lichtenwalter. short video on Facebook of Rossano making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for Nativity Catholic Church. Since then, the response and outpouring of gratitude from others has been remarkable. “A few weeks ago, we had been talking about what her goals are for 2020,” said Caputo, “and Mary said that she wanted to be more involved in her church—Nativity Catholic.” During the conversation, Rossano and Caputo realized that being part of Nativity’s Peanut Butter and Jelly Ministry was a perfect fit. Now, Rossano makes sandwiches from her home and a member of the church picks them up and takes them to one of the ten outreach food banks in Hillsborough County. Nativity Church distributes more than 7,000 sandwiches a month and has donated 500,000 sandwiches over the last 14 years. “I love helping my church and I love helping people who are hungry,” said Rossano, “and it gives me some-
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
By Kelly Wise Valdes
thing different to do.” Rossano’s goal is to make 120 sandwiches each month. Caputo will be buying three loaves of bread weekly to ensure that nothing is wasted and that the bread will be fresh each week. In order to help Rossano reach her goal, Caputo reached out to the community via Facebook for donations of peanut butter, squeeze bottles of grape jelly, ziplock baggies and white labels to adhere to the bags. “The labels are so that Mary can send uplifting messages on her sandwiches,” said Caputo. “So, people will know they are valued and the sandwiches were made with love.” The labels say things like, “You are loved” and “God is love.” “This is a win, win, win for everyone,” said Caputo. “Mary is able to contribute to her church by volunteering, the church is reaching out to the community and the hungry are being fed.” If anyone would like to donate to support Rossano in her efforts to make sandwiches for the ministry, please reach out to Debra Caputo at 215-3176442.
Love Being Outdoors? Protect Your Skin All Year
Staff Report
Average conditions, temperatures in such as the Tampa Bay eczema, area can range rosacea, dry anywhere from skin, rashes, highs in the 70s warts and to mid-90s most more, with the days during the latest technomonths of March logical through options. November. The Medical sunny and Director Dr. Florida Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centers favorable yearoffers free skin cancer screenings in Gibsonton. K. Wade round conditions Foster is also experienced in fellowshipour area can cretrained in Mohs ate quite a recipe surgery, the for too much most effective exposure to ultratechnique for violet (UV) light, thus causing a lot of most types of skin cancers with minipeople to have significant sun dammal scarring or risk. age. Unfortunately, sun damage can FLDSCC Apollo Beach is currentlead to skin cancer and a whole host ly offering free skin cancer screenings of other issues. to new patients. An annual skin exam Skin cancer, such as melanoma, can help identify suspicious growths, can appear at any time in a person’s moles and other dermatologic life, and the risk increases as you changes. Areas of the skin that are age. The good news, though, is that if exposed to the sun are more prone to it’s detected early, it’s almost always develop moles or certain growths, treatable. and because of this, it’s very imporWith more than 9,500 people in tant to have an experienced dermatolthe U.S. given a new skin cancer ogist or licensed medical professional diagnosis every day, Florida conduct a yearly body analysis to Dermatology and Skin Cancer check all areas of your body, includCenters (FLDSCC) makes an impact ing your scalp, neck and back. with its new office in Apollo Beach, Contact FLDSCC today for your offering a full spectrum of dermatolnext free skin cancer screening. FLDogy and skin care services. With an SCC Apollo Beach is located at expert team of physicians, APRNs 13145 Kings Lake Dr., #104 in and PAs, FLDSCC diagnoses and Gibsonton. You can also reach the treats skin cancers as well as skin new office by calling 741-3376.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FishHawk Early Learning Center Celebrates 20 Years Of Educating Children
By Michelle Caceres
supported and even encouraged that bond,” she said. Another daughter, Quinn, attended the FHELC by Bevis for her first year in the baby room In addition to celebrating its 20th with Ms. Marietta before anniversary, FishHawk Early transferring to the center Learning Center is celebrating a perfect 100 percent Readiness Rate score. closer to where she works. FishHawk Early Learning Center Sawyer is now in kindergarten and (FHELC) is celebrating 20 years of servQuinn is getting ready to transition from ing children and families of FishHawk the 1-year-old room to the 2-year-old Ranch and the surrounding area. The first room. of its two centers, adjacent to Bevis “Handing over your child into someElementary at 5632 Osprey Park Pl., has one else’s care is a huge deal for me,” served as a home away from home for she said. “I gave the teachers and carethousands of children. givers at FHELC my babies and they Center Owner Beverly Gonzalez have loved and cared for them as I do credits its success to her team of wellwhile preparing them for kindergarten.” educated and dedicated staff, many of Brown was so pleased with FHELC whom have worked at the centers for that she recommended them to her brothmore than 10 years. “Childcare facilities er. “He now has two children at the can be known to have high turnover FHELC near Bevis,” she said. rates, but my staff is dedicated,” she said. Gonzalez said that, in addition to cel“That educational continuity creates a ebrating its 20th anniversary, it is also celwarm, caring environment that is conebrating a perfect 100 percent Readiness ducive to learning.” Rate score, determined by a computerTwo of FishHawk Creek Elementary based state test administered to children second grade teacher Shannon Brown’s who attended a VPK program during the children have attended FHELC. One first 30 days of kindergarten. daughter, Sawyer, attended FHELC 2, FHELC is open Monday to Friday located adjacent to FishHawk Creek from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. It offers options for Elementary at 6001 Parkset Dr., from the children from 3 months of age up to time she was a baby until she graduated fourth grade, including toddler, preschool, from the school’s Voluntary PreVPK and after-school programs. For Kindergarten Education (VPK) program. more information about FHELC, call 662When she was a baby and refused to 5978. For more information about FHELC take a bottle, she would go over on her 2, call 684-5506. The website for both teaching brakes and nurse her. “They centers is www.fhelc.com.
Volume 19, Issue 3
March 2020
, g n i n e d Gar garten Kinderp & More Roundu
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Student Pantry project, the one class or come to four classes. There group was awarded a is no fee to attend. grant through Hillsborough These classes will be held at The Community College - MLK Bridges on 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Durant Student Day of Service to engage Riverview. Seating is limited. Please Seeking Buyer For neighboring communities reserve a seat by calling 800-272-3900. Her Swine aymire W e in transforming the Dr. ll ie Ninth grader n a ed by D ver.com Martin Luther King Jr. holiCaroline Haxton will Compil @ospreyobser Kindergarten Roundup ire day into a day of citizen be auctioning off her dwaym Calling all future Kindergarten paraction and volunteer servswine named Tater ents. Plan to attend a Ready for ice. Youth from four local on Friday, February 28 at the Kindergarten event at an elementary Caroline and Tater getting Strawberry Festival. She is ready for the Swine Show high schools, including school near you. These events will offer currently serving as the J.F. St. at the Strawberry Festival. Spoto, Riverview, Kid’s students and famiIncoming Superintendent Community lies a firsthand look Addison Davis College and Tampa Bay at kindergarten life Hillsborough County Technical, participated in the and the opportunity Schools signed a new superevent and provided over 2,000 to see the school intendent last month. Addison canned/dry goods. and meet the staff. Davis has spent more than Women Centered 4 For more infor20 years educating and supSuccess is a nonprofit organizamation, visit porting students in Florida. tion committed to providing supHe began as a classroom port for women through equipwww.sdhc.k12.fl.us/doc/2276/bold-beginteacher in Duval County and ping, encouraging and empowering nings/kindergarten/kindergartenreg/. most recently served as the them with the connection to tools and superintendent in Clay services they need for personal Master Gardener Library Program County. This past year, he Incoming Superintendent Addison Davis signs his contract. growth, housing, jobs and health care was a finalist for Florida’s The Bloomingdale library is hosting to achieve a better life. Martin (Durant Junior) FFA Chapter Superintendent of the Year. a program that introduces microirrigation For more information, contact Sheila Last month, in a unanimous vote, the President and this is her first year raising for patio and container gardening on Lewis, executive director, at 951-4268 or Hillsborough County School Board select- and showing a swine. If you plan on Wednesday, March 4. It also includes wc4s2016@gmail.com. ed Davis as its district’s next superintend- being at the auction, Caroline would love gardening fundamentals and a free kit to for you to bid on her pig, ear tag number ent. On Tuesday, February 19, the The Bridges Retirement Community get you started. One free kit will be pro71. For additional information on the sale Hillsborough County School Board vided to each household that completes Hosts Caregiver of the swine, email caroapproved the contract for Davis and had and turns in a survey. The program covCollege line.haxton@gmail.com. a short ceremony during the School ers microirrigation components, setup The Bridges Board Meeting. Davis will start in and maintenance for the kits provided. Retirement Community Women Centered 4 Hillsborough County Public Schools on Don’t forget to bring a plant or other garis hosting the Success Monday, March 2 and work side by side dening item for a fun drawing. Alzheimer’s Association’s Local nonprofit with Superintendent Jeff Eakins during a The Bloomingdale library located at ‘Caregiver College,’ a Women Centered 4 two-week transition period. After spring 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico series of educational Success partnered with break, Davis will become the acting area high schools to par- Local high school students partici- classes to help you build superintendent, with Superintendent Wolves 11U Win ticipate in Dr. Martin pating in the Student Pantry proj- your careEakins on administrative leave until his FishHawk giver tool ect. Luther King Jr.’s legacy contract ends on Tuesday, June 30. President’s Day kit. When it for social change and justice via the secDavis will formally become superintendBash comes to dementia caregivond annual MLK Day of Service Student ent of Hillsborough County Public After finishing ing, knowledge is power. Pantry project. After the successful 2019 number one in the The classes include: Ten nation at the Warning Signs of Triple-A level last Alzheimer’s on Tuesday, year, the 11U March 17; Healthy Living for FishHawk Wolves the Brain & Body on won again last Tuesday, March 24; month. The The 11U FishHawk Wolves won the Effective Communication Wolves improved FishHawk President’s Day Bash. Strategies on Tuesday, their record 7-2 March 31; and Legal & Financial and will head to Viera for their next tourPlanning on Tuesday, April 7. All classes nament on Saturday, March 7. will be held from 10-11:30 a.m. Come to Schools on Wednesday, July 1.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
, y d e m o ts, C ets r e c n o C k r a M g Sprin More and nielle Waymire a ed by D ver.com Compil @ospreyobser ire dwaym
Comedian Al Ernst Coming To South Shore For Free Show
There will be a food tasting and pop-up shop featuring Passover foods at the Jewish Discovery Center, located at 1578 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, on Sunday, March 22 from 1-5 p.m. Whether you celebrate Passover, are looking to save money or want to try some new foods, you will be glad you came to The Passover Experience. The Passover Experience is an extension of the year-round kosher meat delivery service available at kosherkaddy.com. For the list of specials and items for sale, visit jewishbrandon.com/passoverexperience or call 771-8100.
Could you use a good laugh? Calvary Church in Ruskin is hosting a hilarious evening with stand-up comedian Al ‘Groceries’ Ernst. Grace Community United Methodist Ernst will come to Calvary for one Church Spring Market show, free of The Spring Market will take charge, delivering a place on Saturday, March 21 from 9 family-friendly night a.m.-2 p.m. at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest of laughter and Rd. in Lithia. community camaOrganizers are seeking venraderie with his dors to sell a variety of products, JESUS TAKE THE such as arts and crafts, jewelry, WHEEL, ‘CAUSE clothing and more. National compaI’M TRYING TO nies will be on a first-come, firstTEXT stand-up serve basis. The fee for a 10 ft. x show. The event 10 ft. space is $30. The market will will be held on be outdoors and vendors are asked Saturday, March 7 Calvary Church in Ruskin is to provide their own tents, tables hosting comedian Al at 6 p.m. in the ‘Groceries’ Ernst. and chairs. Calvary Church To learn more, visit Mission Center, located at 1250 E. www.GraceCommunityMarket.com College Ave. in Ruskin.
Fifth Annual Saint Anne Catholic Church Best Ball Golf Tournament Scramble
Saint Anne Catholic Church’s fifth annual Best Ball Golf Tournament will be held at the Summerfield Golf Course, located at 13050 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview, on Saturday, March 28. Registration is at 7:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The cost is $70 per player if registered by Friday, February 28. After February 28, the cost is $75 per player. There will be prizes for first, second and third place; a putting contest for $50; a longest drive for $50; most accurate drive for $50; closest to the pin on all par3s for $50; and a hole-in-one prize of $10,000. Proceeds will benefit Saint Anne Community Outreach programs in the SouthShore community. Forms can be obtained at the church office on 106 11th Ave. NE. in Ruskin or by calling John Barr at 294-7291 or Diane Rezaii at 615-364-8489.
The Passover Experience
Chabad of Brandon is excited about their new event ‘The Passover Experience.’
Chabad Of Brandon To Celebrate ‘Purim In NYC’
‘Purim in NYC’ is Chabad of Brandon’s creative twist to this year’s community Purim celebration. There will be an airbrush painting by guest artist Rob Sardella, a buffet dinner of delicious NY-style foods, Jewish music and dancing and a multimedia reading of the biblical scroll of Esher, known in Hebrew as the Megillah. The event will be held at the Jewish Discovery Center, located at 1578 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico on Tuesday, March 10 at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $18 per person or $54 per family. RSVP online at jewishbrandon.com/rsvp or call 571-8100.
Bell Shoals Baptist Academy Hires New Technology Coordinator
Bell Shoals Baptist Academy (BSBA) has hired Cyndi Holcombe as its new technology coordinator. Holcombe brings many years of technology experience, including owning her own businesses, 15 years of ministry experience from Bell Shoals Baptist Church and is currently the computer and STEM/robotics teacher at BSBA. She also has been coaching the BSBA competitive robotics teams,
Volume 19, Issue 3
Panther Tech Black and nonmembers and $25 Green. The technology coorfor members. dinator job responsibilities Congregation include overseeing the new Beth Shalom located iPad carts for classroom at 706 Bryan Rd. in usage by elementary stuBrandon. Call 681dents and iPads for all sixth 6547 for reservations. through eighth grade students for the fall 2020 Love First Christian school year. Duties also Center Offers Life involve leadership over proUniversity Classes gram designing, implemenLove First tation and development of Christian Center is Cyndi Holcombe is Bell Shoals the BSBA 1-to-1 iPad initia- Baptist Academy’s new technolo- located at 12847 Balm gy coordinator. tive as well as helping to Riverview Rd. in coordinate technology to function well in Riverview and will be offering the followthe classroom. ing Life University classes. For more For more information on BSBA, visit information, visit www.lfcc.tv. www.bsbacademy.com. Financial Stewardship – January 27 - April 13 (12 weeks): Backpacks On A Mission Financial Stewardship is a class on South Shore United Methodist money and finance management taught Church’s (SSUMC) ‘Backpacks on a from an extensive biblical perspective. Mission’ was recently awarded an MLK You’ll walk through the basics of budgetgrant from HCC and the State of Florida. ing, eliminating debt, planning, creating a As part of the MLK Day of Service at plan for a solid financial future and much more. You will discover the role your finances are to have in your life and spiritual well-being. DivorceCare – February 4 - April 28 (13 weeks): DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s very difficult experiBackpacks on a Mission volunteers recently awarded an ences. Most people will tell MLK grant from HCC and the State of Florida. you that separation and South Shore United Methodist Church, divorce are the most painful and stressful volunteers from the HCC Student experiences they’ve ever faced. It’s a Government Association, HCC Nursing confusing time when you feel isolated students, Girl Scout Troop 33304 and and have lots of questions about issues members from SSUMC spent the mornyou’ve never faced alone. ing transporting nonperishable items and DivorceCare 4 Kids (DC4K) – stocking the Backpacks on a Mission February 4 - April 28 (13 weeks): pantry. DC4K provides your children with a Backpacks on a Mission’s focus is to safe and neutral place to gain an ageprovide food for needy elementary school appropriate understanding of separation children over the weekend who might not and divorce. They will learn how to have other resources available. process and share their feelings. DC4K is For more information, call 677-9482 designed for kids 5-12 years of age. or SSUMC, located at 11525 Big Bend The Art of Marriage – March 3 Rd. in Riverview. April 7 (six weeks): This course is We’re Not designed to help build Getting Any marriage the way God Younger intended it to be. That’s why for more than 35 We’re Not years, FamilyLife has Getting Any been helping couples Younger is a series held by Congregation understand God’s plan for relationships. Beth Shalom that aims to help with the The Art of Marriage weaves together special challenges faced by middle aged expert teaching, real-life stories, humorindividuals and beyond. ous vignettes and more to portray both It will be held on Wednesday, March the challenges and the beauty of God’s 4 and Sunday, March 23 at 7 p.m. The design for marriage. fee to participate in this series is $35 for
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March 2020
Page 19
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
TBD@301 Creates A Unique Way To Support Local Businesses And Nonprofits
By Libby Hopkins
When form this partnership Isabella Rosal with TBD@301. “I and her busilove working with ness partners local businesses to at TBD@301 in not only promote Riverview startwhat we do but what ed their tea, they do as well,” bowls and Stano said. “It’s truly dessert store, a win-win situation for they wanted to all of us.” do business a Rosal and her little differently. TBD@301 in Riverview is offering a new team are excited business opportunity to local businesses about their new They were and nonprofits. It will put businesses or committed to opportunity for local nonprofits’ logos on its drink sleeves to help promote them. making the businesses and nonworld a better place with sustainable profits. “The way it works is we will practices. This belief hasn’t changed only print out one company/logo at a for Rosal and her team. Now, they time for a certain batch of their are also focusing on helping local choice; for example, 250, 500, 1,000 businesses and nonprofits in the com- or 1,300 sleeves,” Rosal said. “Price munity. starts at 18 cents per piece, which is One way TBD@301 does this is comparable to a regular every door by adding the logos of local business- direct mailing price per flyer, which es and nonprofits to the drink sleeves we are not 100 percent sure it reachof its tea cups. es our target clients. With our cup “Putting info on our cup sleeves sleeves, you know the message gets does not really cost extra for us, and to the person, and they tend to hold we would love to use that medium to on to them for at least 30 minutes.” help our community more by featuring Rosal’s main goal of this project nonprofit organizations,” Rosal said. is awareness. “We want to raise “This is going to be our first run with awareness, not just for the brand, but the project featuring USO because of it also calls for the community on our partnership with the Central things that actually matters,” Rosal Florida Office at Tampa International said. For info on TBD@301’s drink Airport. ECHO of Brandon sleeves, email Rosal at letstalk@tbd(www.echofl.org) will be next, and cafe.com or contact her at 420-0013. then Stano Foundation. To learn more about TBD@301, Paula Stano is the president of visit www.tbdcafe.com. TBD@301 is the Stano Foundation located at 3840 US Hwy. 301 S. in (www.stano.org) and she is thrilled to Riverview.
HEADACHES!
Headaches can happen for many reasons which make it difficult to know what type of headache you have and the cause. Migraines, tension/cervicogenic headaches, and cluster headaches are the main forms of primary headache disorders. Commonly enough, many of them can be traced back to the neck or surrounding musculature. WHAT IT IS Posture plays a critical role regarding neck pain, which can cause pain in the head region, triggering a headache. Existing in today’s world with desk jobs, poor sleeping habits, and excessive technology use — to name a few — all can have potential influence on headaches. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments of our neck are pain sensitive and can send symptoms to other areas of the body. WHAT IT ISN’T Cervicogenic headaches, or secondary headaches which are caused by another illness or physical issue, are rarely a sign of something scary or dangerous. However, it’s important to distinguish the difference from other types of headache as they can share similar symptoms. Migraine headaches are typically more severe and have a known trigger, e.g., food, light, smells. Pain is usually on one side of the head with symptoms behind the eye and at the back of the head and nausea and vomiting are common. Some experience “auras” or visual disturbances preceding a migraine. Migraines can last a few hours to as long as a few days and can occur seldom or several times a year. Cluster headaches are very intense and commonly felt right behind one eye, and their underlying cause is unknown. They occur regularly over a period in “clusters” and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, occurring multiple times in a day over several weeks. If a headache occurs suddenly and accompanied by pain, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or unconsciousness — especially when associated with trauma — seek emergency medical care immediately. Treatment at Motion ChiroTherapy will always be in a
1-on-1 setting with the doctor for every visit.
We believe in patient empowerment and autonomy and being able to control your own pain. We teach our patients how to catch the beginning stages of potential headaches and how to control them. We can’t all avoid bad postures and prolonged sitting or driving, but understanding your triggers will make you less susceptible to headaches!
CALL TODAY Dr. Robert Lutz Dr. Morgan Price
16765 FishHawk Blvd, Lithia • 813-793-7791 (Located in the Winn Dixie Shopping Plaza)
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Page 20
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 19, Issue 3
Pepin Academies In Riverview Offers Welding Program At Winthrop
BSAC Partners With Livingstone Academy For Student Programming
Every a job coach, day, two Monica Garcia. groups of six Martinez has hand-selecttaught her to weld ed students as well so that she from the can get in and Pepin help. Garcia has Academies been with Pepin Riverview Academies for campus travseven years. el to the Garcia said, “It Bryant Martinez, an artist and nationally certified Pole Barn at has been a dream welder, is teaching students from the Pepin Winthrop journey. I get to Academies Riverview campus how to weld, a trade skill that will allow them to become certified go from the classand learn and land jobs. the skills of room to this.” welding from artist Bryant Garcia added, “The students Martinez. The Pepin are learning a trade skill. You Academies welding procannot get this type of traingram has been ongoing ing in a classroom.” since August 2019. Several of the students Martinez is a nationechoed this sentiment. ally certified welder who Dimonte said, “This is defihas been welding for 20 years. Each nitely more than I expected.” Eli said, class lasts two hours. According to “This has opened up new things for Martinez, the students learn the funme. Bryant taught us a lot. Ms. Garcia damentals of welding. “They are taktransporting us everyday is very meaning that knowledge and building ingful.” Diego said, “It is fun. I look foritems,” said Martinez. Together, they ward to it, and I plan to continue.” have created two backpack racks, two Solomon said, “I enjoy it. I get to paint bike racks and two 8-foot sculptures. the sculptures when they are done.” All of the items are installed at their John Stansberry, the assistant prinschool. cipal at the Riverview campus, said, Now, they are working on awnings “Providing a welding program allows for the parent drop-off area. Because students to experience a field typically Martinez is first and foremost an artist, not offered in high school. They can each awning will feature little extra get certification and immediate job items such as sculpted dragonflies placement without post-secondary eduand ladybugs. Martinez said, “I treat cation. The level of confidence in the each student as a welding artist, so students has skyrocketed since incepthe awnings will have artistic pieces tion. Some were not very successful in added to it.” their academic careers. Now, they are Each student was required to buy able to show their talents to the comtheir own equipment, including steelmunity of Winthrop, Pepin Academies toe boots, a welding helmet with full and the Tampa Bay area.” shield and welding gloves and jackets. This program would not be possiWhen I visited a class, it was ble without commitment from the clear that the students were 100 perschool’s administration and the space cent invested in the class. They each being provided by Kay and John warmly greeted Martinez and then got Sullivan. on their gear and got to work. I was For more information on Pepin able to witness them work together. Academies, please visit The students are accompanied by www.pepinacademies.com.
Brandon tion,” said Burgess. Sports and Aquatic “Partnering with Center (BSAC) and Bernadette and Livingstone Chris Pello and their Academy have amazing organizalong been leaders tion is a natural fit in for special that it brings more of needs edua focus and spotlight cation in on the special Hillsborough needs community. ." Chuck Burgess, CEO of Brandon Sports County. Once students and Aquatics Center, and Chris Pello, CEO Now, they join age out of the tradiof Livingstone Academy. forces in a new partnership, filling a gap tional school system, however, there are in much needed services for special very few resources available for them to needs students and adults. continue educational programming. After Chuck Burgess, CEO of BSAC, and identifying this gap in services, BSAC creChris Pello, CEO Livingstone Schools, ated the TRIDENT program for special met in Leadership Brandon through the needs adults in 2011. In TRIDENT, stuChamber of Commerce in 2014. They dents over the age of 22 are able to quickly built a professional relationship come together for socialization, recreafter discovering their common interest in ation, education, field trips, and sports serving the special needs community. As programming. Livingstone Schools continued to grow, The new partnership between BSAC so did the need for more space. and Livingstone ensures that no student Livingstone Schools opened its fourth or family in need will fall between the location, Livingstone Academy cracks. Students can seamlessly transiExceptional Center on the BSAC camtion from Livingstone into TRIDENT with pus, and their program feeds directly into no lapse in programming. the TRIDENT program offered at BSAC "Our partnership with BSAC is an Livingstone Academy Exceptional answer to prayer,” said Pello. “Due to our Center offers programming for students schools’ tremendous growth, we were in with intellectual disabilities, down synneed of a quality educational facility. drome and autism in grades 9-12. This BSAC provided the ideal space for our high-school program will focus on acahigh school program." demic, social, life and job skills. They will Open enrollment for the 2020/2021 also offer a transition program for stuschool year is available at Livingstone dents post high school for ages 18-22. Academy beginning in February. For “BSAC is so excited to partner with more information, contact Chris Pello at Livingstone Academy to expand our specpello@livingstoneschools.org and visit cial needs impact pillar of our organizatheir website at Livingstoneschools.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Family-Owned La Septima Café Celebrates 25th Anniversary In Community
By Libby Hopkins
La Septima can sometimes be Café has been a a struggle with food part of the Brandon and labor costs to community for 25 deal with.” years. Since La “Twenty-five Septima Café years ago, we opened in 1995, opened a little Fernandez, her restaurant on husband, Ron, and Parsons Ave.,” said Owner Dahlia Fernandez. “We La Septima Café, owned only had one dinby Dahlia and Ron Fernandez, has been a ing room, a small part of the Brandon kitchen and a community for 25 years. handful of staff members, most of which were the two of us and our children. We have, for 25 years, always been surprised and grateful for our success. their family have loved being a We certainly love our growpart of the Brandon community and ing community and are proud and gratesupporting it. “We love what we do and ful being a part of it.” we do it because we love our loyal guests La Septima Café outgrew its Parsons and all the new friends we meet every Ave. location and moved to its current day,” Fernandez said. “With more and spot in La Viva Plaza on Lumsden Rd. more new restaurants moving into our “Once again, the experience was scary community, we embrace the challenge. and exciting. Our loyal customers have We will always serve our guests with love supported us and once again encourand great food. Viva La Septima!” aged us. We have made so many new To learn more about La Septima friends within the community since we’ve Café or take a peek at its delicious menu, moved.” visit www.laseptimacafe.com or call 685In 2018, the Tampa Bay Times 0502. La Septima Café also offers caternamed La Septima Café one of the most ing with menus and pricing available on ‘Iconic Restaurants’ in Tampa Bay. its website. La Septima Café is located in “We are simple in the operation of La Viva Plaza on 702 West Lumsden Rd. our beloved family ‘mom and pop’ restau- in Brandon. Hours of operation are rant,” Fernandez said. “We strive to proMonday-Saturday, 11a.m.-9 p.m. The vide the best food at the best prices. This café is closed on Sundays.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 19, Issue 3
East Hillsborough Community Meeting The TV Series 100 Day Dream Home Is A Dream Come True For Brian And Mika Kleinschmidt Welcomes Congressman Spano As Guest Speaker
By Gwen Rollings
By Kathy L. Collins
100 Day create, build and Dream Home, a complete a personnew HGTV series, alized home for features not only each family in 100 local residents days. Brian and Mika Potential home Kleinschmidt, but buyers for the show the Tampa Bay are selected area as well. The through a casting series pilot aired in process through April 2019. HGTV the Kleinschmidts’ Local residents Mika and Brian has now picked it production compaKleinschmidt are excited that HGTV has picked up their series, 100 Day Dream up for a series, ny as well as Home. The series will premiere on Sunday, HGTV. Brian which will premiere February 16 and will air at 10 p.m. on Sunday, explained, “Those February 16 at 10 p.m. This who are selected are real is a dream come true for clients who are actually the Kleinschmidts. “We buying, designing, building received the long-anticipatand moving into their ed call from HGTV about dream home.” the show being picked up “We have had so while we were driving. We much fun making the both screamed,” said Brian. “Everything series. We hope that the audience has as we had worked/prayed for so hard was much fun watching it,” said Brian. “It was finally paying off and coming true. We are a ton of hard work, but every day we beyond blessed and excited for this new made sure we were enjoying every step chapter in our lives,” added Brian. 100 of the process. The Tampa Bay has Day Dream Home will run for nine weeks. always supported every crazy dream we It will feature nine homes located through- have gone after, and this is no different,” out the area, including Ruskin, Apollo added Brian. Beach, Riverview, Plant City, downtown The show, in addition to featuring Tampa and St. Petersburg. Brian said, Tampa Bay, supports and highlights local “We cannot wait to show off our beautiful businesses. Brian said, “We are highlightarea and all that it has to offer.” ing all of the talented builders, subconThe Kleinschmidts are custom home tractors, artists and designers in each and designers. The husband and wife team every episode. We are so excited to show work with clients to create their perfect the world how much talent Tampa Bay home by taking them on tours of various truly has to offer.” properties. They select their dream exteriHGTV is a top-10 network and has or, interior, furnishings and finishes. They more than 37 million viewers each month.
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present, including representatives from nonprofit organizations, local businesses, volunteers with religious charities, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and concerned citizens. Several months ago, members of this community meeting Congressman Spano was guest speaker at the East Hillsborough Community Meeting. compiled a list of 19 communiU.S. Rep. Ross Spano left the halls ty needs and of Congress in Washington D.C. recentgaps in service ly to pay a visit to many constituents around the East and friends meeting in a hall of Bay Life Hillsborough Church in Brandon. On January 21, area, such as: more low-income housing, Spano was the guest speaker at the East affordable childcare, resources for foster Hillsborough Community Meeting. Spano care, more emergency shelters, skill greeted everyone with a handshake prior development programs, free parenting to being introduced by Cheryl Hickman, classes, shelter for the elderly mentally ill executive director of Women’s Resource who are homeless and options for counCenter of Tampa. Spano began by seling and mentoring youth. As many of acknowledging his lifelong ties to the these concerns were voiced, Spano lisBrandon area, which he called his tened, offered solutions when appropri“stompin’ ground” and recalled memories ate, took note of unresolved issues and involving boyhood friend Pat Simmons, promised to continue making constituents’ who was in the audience. concerns his priority. Spano said his passion is to serve. Hickman concluded by thanking He served in the Florida legislature for Spano and reminding everyone that three terms. He authored and passed copies of the 2019 East Hillsborough more anti-human trafficking bills than any Community Resource Guide, an up-toother member of the Florida House in hisdate guide developed for those in need tory. He is a strong supporter of the right and facing emergency/urgent life events to life, our veterans, the Second to local community agencies and organAmendment, small business and limited izations for assistance, are still availgovernment. Spano received an A-rating able. At the next meeting, at 1:30 p.m. from the Susan B. Anthony List in its on Tuesday, February 18, the brand-new Pro-Life National Scorecard. Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office will Spano responded, “As a father and speak on homelessness and Carol grandfather, I believe every child has a Toffolon from The Charity Branch will right to life.” He added that after serving share how businesses can impact social in the U.S. Congress for a year, “We issues through collaboration. Contact need prayer.” information: email After his comments, Spano respondCheryl@wrctampa.org or call 309-3357. ed to questions and concerns from those
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March 2020
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Volume 19, Issue 3
March 2020
Volume 19, Issue 3
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk
In This Section
GRIFFIN LAW ..................................PG 28 MEDI‐WEIGHTLOSS ........................PG 31 MOTORING TAMPA BAY.................PG 32 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 36 SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 42
Crafty Crab Celebrates One Year In Business
Plaza, next to Bella Cucina. The store Crafty Crab offers fresh purchases highseafood and authentic end watches, recipes and is celebrating a including Rolex year in business this month. brand, broken When you walk into the or unwanted restaurant, you will immedigold and silver, ately experience Southern charm and a friendly, welVelox Insurance is now open at 13220 Boyette flatware and Rd. in Riverview. serving trays, coming atmosphere to make office at gold and silver coins, fine you feel at home. Whether 13220 jewelry, diamonds, cosyou are stopping for a busiJoanna Springstead, financial advisor with tume jewelry, older baseMissy Duncan with Missy’s Boyette ness lunch, family dinner, Edward Jones, celebrated her new office in Ink recently completed her Rd. in ball cards and more. date night or a night out with FishHawk Park Square at 16132 Churchview Dr., certification to create beauti- Riverview. Hours are MondaySte. 201 in Lithia with a Valrico FishHawk friends, you’ve come to the ful 3D areolas and nipples. Reis says Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting. Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and perfect spot. Delicious, hotthat Velox Insurance “was Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. style seafood with Missy Duncan Completes established with the goal of Call 634-2234 or 863generous portions is Certification providing competitive rates and superior 899-8048 after hours. Visit www.preciouswhat you can expect Missy Duncan with Missy’s Ink customer service to meet the insurance coinsandgold.com for more info. with every meal. recently completed her certification to creneeds of our customers. At Chefs are cooking up ate beautiful 3D areolas and nipples. This Velox Insurance, we underRealtor Karyn Scech crab, crawfish, calais perfect for a woman who has recently stand that your time is valuPresented With mari and lobster in the had a mastectomy or wants to renew the able, so we strive to provide Finlife Award kitchen, made fresh pigmentation of existing areolas/nipples. reliable, fast service and to Yellowfin Realty daily. Not into shellReplacing areolas/nipples can restore a obtain the best coverage at awarded the 2019 fish? Try the Cajun rice, chicken tenders woman’s self-esteem. Duncan can create the lowest price for vehicle, Finlife Founders Award and other flavorful meal options. the look of a three-dimensional nipple on property and business needs.” to Karyn Scech. Crafty Crab knows food tastes better a completely flat surface. The office is open The Finlife with your hands, so don’t be shy—dig in! Prices are very low while she is buildMonday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 Founders Award was The signature New Orleans-style low ing clientele for this service. p.m. and can be contacted at first presented to broker country boil is a feast for seafood lovers Call 659-0648 today and restore your 425-5115 or at www.veloxinSusie Morris’ mother, and perfect for a casual dinner. The confidence. Visit www.missysink.com for suranceriverview.com. Realtor Karyn Scech from who sold real estate for restaurant makes its own seasoning to more info. Yellowfin Realty. more than 30 years in create a unique arrangement of flavors. Precious Coins And Gold Florida. The award is given each year to Crafty Crab is located at 704 E. Velox Insurance Opens New Office Opens New Location the agent that truly exemplifies the true Brandon Blvd. and can be reached at New business owner Thiago Reis Precious Coins and Gold recently meaning of selling real estate and prac278-5111. For more information, visit recently opened the door to his insurance moved to 1509 Ste. A in the Sun City Continued on Next Page www.craftycrabrestaurant.com.
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Business Column Continued................... tices real estate with a wholehearted approach. In addition, the winner must volunteer in the community and have the customers’ best interests in mind. Scech can be reached at KarynScechHomes.com or by calling 376-0269.
Local Business Owner Releases Book To Share Message Of Hope
Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
By Jenny Bennett
nity is invited to celebrate with the author and her family on launch day at Tin Roof Trading Company’s newly opened White Oak Cottage, located at 10530 S. County Rd. 39 in Lithia. The event will take place on Saturday, March 7 from 2-5 p.m. with an author meet and greet, books for sale, a book signing, snacks and a celebratory champagne toast. Tin Roof’s main store will also be open for perusing and shopping. Learn more about Jacky and her company at www.customcleanups.com. For questions or to connect with her for authorrelated information, reach out via email at customcleanups@gmail.com.
community to kick off the spring season and celebrate its 40th birthday on Saturday, March 7. Mini seminars on favorite gardening topics will take place throughout the day, including houseplant care, butterfly gardening and growing cactus and succulents. Children will also enjoy the event with face painting and garden activities. As a way of saying thank you to customers, Kerby’s is also giving away $40 gift cards at 40 minutes past the hour from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The event will kick off at 9:30 a.m. with the unveiling of a new butterfly mural. Visit www.kerbysnursery.com for a full schedule of events. The nursery is located at 2311 S. Parsons Ave.
club members voting on who to donate to each year. The purpose of Networking of Greater Brandon is to build a membership of businesspersons who are socially responsible and to encourage each member to form friendships and build trust with the other members in the group. For more information on the Networking of Greater Brandon group, visit www.NetworkingOfGreaterBrandon.com
Cruise Planners Franchise Owner Julie Irovando Named TopPerforming Travel Advisor
After nearly losing everything to canJulie Irovando from Valrico was cer, local entrepreonce again among the top three proneur, business owner ducing travel advisors out of more than and author Jacky 2,500 agents within Cruise Planners’ Costello found the home-based network. meaning of Cruise Planners, an American life—at least the Express Travel Representative, annualmeaning of ly hosts an educational and fun-filled hers. convention for more than 700 travel New Vet Clinic Offers Costello’s advisors and hundreds of trade partAffordable new book, How ners. Alternative To Far I Have For more than 20 years, Irovando Veterinary ER Risen: Coming has been the go-to travel advisor for Clean About UrgentVet, the first those looking to personalize their group, Cancer, God dedicated urgent care family or leisure trips. Her dedication to and My clinic for pets, is creating perfect trips for her clients has American expanding into the Brandon area, Mary & Martha House Receives $500 earned her several accolades, including Dream, details opening a new clinic in the BayCare Donation American Express Travel’s Excellence her early life in FishHawk resident Jackie HealthHub at 2446 Bloomingdale Ave. Mary & Martha House, which is locat- in Card Benefits Fulfillment Award, Costello will hold a book East Germany, in Brandon. UrgentVet fills the widenTravel Agent Central’s Top 25 All Stars ed at 312 S. US Hwy. 41, is a charity that launch celebration this starting a family, ing care gap that exists between tradiand Celebrity Cruises’ Sales Associate helps women get back on their feet after month. her battle with tional daytime veterinary practices and Travel Partner of the Year. abusive or neglected home situations by cancer, the crushing pain of a loss she specialized 24-hour emergency hospitals, “Becoming a Cruise Planners travel providing emergency never thought she’d have to face, finding providing affordable advisor has been one of the most and transitional housher best friend, finding her faith, finding after-hours relief on rewarding decisions I have ever made,” ing and support servherself and building her business in the weeknights, weeksaid Irovando. “None of this would have ices. face of it all. It’s a true page turner that ends and holidays been possible without the support of my On January 15, will lead you through the gamut of emoyear-round. “We’re so business partner Tawnee Sons, our the Networking of tions as you follow in her footsteps excited to be opening devoted employees and the Cruise Greater Brandon through Germany and her eventual move up our next location in Planners’ Home Office Team. Every day group honored Mary to the United States, taking you from Brandon to serve pets we strive to provide clients with the best & Martha House with tears to laughter and a renewed sense of and pet parents,” said deals and a seamless travel experia donation of $500. empowerment and love. Dr. Jim Dories, ence. The technology Cruise Planners The donation is Costello is the owner of Custom founder of UrgentVet. given from the collect- continues to innovate and implement Cleanups, LLC, a five-star rated house“We specifically allows us to continue down this path of ed membership dues cleaning company serving the FishHawk, sought out Brandon success.” Travellers should reach out of the group and all Lithia, Brandon and Greater Tampa Bay because we know it’s directly to Irovando at 643-2543 or visit the money raised area. Through Custom Cleanups’ partner- a very family and petwww.world2sea.com to customize their goes back onto the Mary and Martha House Receives $500 ship with Cleaning for a Reason, Jacky friendly community, next vacation experience. community, with the Donation. and her team provide services free of and the opportunity to charge to those battling cancer because, secure space in the BayCare HealthHub as she mentions in her book, sometimes just reinforced our decision to open a clinit’s the little semblances of normal that ic here.” help you keep it all together when you’re UrgentVet - Brandon will be open fighting for your life. She is honored to be from 3 to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday Celebrating 3 2 years able to give back to her community in this and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. For in business! and many other ways. more information, visit UrgentVet.com. Air Conditioning & Heating How Far I Have Risen: Coming Duct Clean About Cancer, God and My Kerby’s Garden Center Celebrates 40 Inspection Sunairtampa.com | 813-684-9919 American Dream will be released on Years With Community Event with Tune Up Family Owned and Operated for 32 Years Amazon in March and the entire commuKerby’s Garden Center is inviting the CAC044863
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Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
NOT HAPPY IN YOUR JOB?
Attorney Inspires Children To Pursue Law & Join Family Run Griffin & Associates
By Michelle Caceres
After brother/sister Ryan, who attended duo Ryan and Rachel Florida State University Griffin graduated from College of Law (his parlaw school and passed ents met in Tallahassee), the state bar, the decisaid they take the idea of sion of which law firm to a family business to a join seemed easy: The whole new level. He said Law Offices of Griffin & he is often asked how he Associates, P.A. can work with family. “I tell With their mother, them it’s been very Eileen Griffin, at the rewarding,” he said. “Not helm of the firm that only do I get to practice has been assisting resilaw with a seasoned attordents and businesses Eileen Griffin and her children, ney, but I get to see my in the Tampa Bay people every day.” Ryan and Rachel Griffin, offer region for more than 30 their legal services to Tampa Bay Eileen is extraordinararea residents. years, they knew there ily proud to have both of was no better place to hone their skills. her children practicing law in the family Now with a few years’ tenure at the firm and for their grit, or strength of charfirm (Ryan joined the firm in 2016 and acter involving courage and resolve, a Rachel in 2017), they said their decision personality trait that can’t be taught. was critical to their success as attorneys. “To be able to practice law is a privi“My mom has been practicing law for lege, not a right, and is a privilege earned 33 years, so we have an excellent menby maintaining an honorable character” tor,” said Rachel. “We’re here to learn she said. “Both Ryan and Rachel have everything we can from her.” demonstrated professional integrity, and When your mother is the senior attor- for that I am most proud.” ney, there’s plenty of face time with the The Law Offices of Griffin & boss. “We will go into her office and Associates, P.A., located at 1430 Oakfield bounce ideas off her,” she added. Dr. in Brandon, is a multi-service firm and Rachel, a graduate of Stetson is able to meet a wide variety of legal University College of Law in 2017 (where needs, including marital and family law, her mother graduated in 1986), credits personal injury/wrongful death, probate, the successful partnership to their close wills/trusts/estates and civil litigation. relationship. Clients of Griffin & Associates benefit from “We’re a close-knit family that enjoys not just one lawyer, but a highly effective being with each other every day,” she team of experienced attorneys, paralesaid. “Even on weekends I’ll take my gals and legal assistants. dogs to my parent’s house so they can To schedule a consultation, visit play with their two dogs.” www.egriffinlaw.com or call 681-2612.
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March 2020
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Celebrate Literacy Week Florida Gets Teachers And Students Involved At Durant High
By Gwen Rollings
“Read to Was all this coorSUCCEED! dinated effort worth it? Reach for the According to Florida Stars! Believe in State University yourself!” proCollege of Education, claimed Karen “Reading skills predict Morrissey, reading success later in life, coach and readwhether that involves ing department getting into college or head at Durant having a successful High School in career.” Plant City. The Maria DeVivo, the Hillsborough meet and greet author, County Reading is a language arts and Media Specialist Lanie Randall, Karen Teacher of the journalism teacher at Morrissey and Maria DeVivo celebrate Year (2017-2018) Literacy Week Florida at Durant High School. Randall Middle School pulled out all the stops for Durant stuwith a successful 20-year teaching dents and teachers in Celebrate Literacy career. She said, “I’ve always been a Week Florida, held throughout Florida writer. Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve during January 27-31. had this giant imagination that couldn’t be Her goal was to create a fun-filled tamed or contained. When I was in the week to get students and teachers seventh grade and read The Outsiders involved in celebrating literacy. A for the first time, that’s when it clicked, Hillsborough County Public Library preand I got it in my head that I wanted to pared a Literacy in the Courtyard event write and publish one day.” She has writwhere hundreds of books were available ten three books in The Coal Elf to browse and take home to keep. Library Chronicles and most recently released representatives shared all the services The Altered. Visit www.mariadevivo.com public libraries have to offer students. The for more information about DeVivo and Durant Brew Crew served up iced coffee. her books. The week was jam packed with Morrissey, who has taught at elemensomething different every day, including a tary, middle and high school levels, meet and greet/book signing with a local shared, “My passion is to have all ages author, prizes for teachers in the Door connect to literacy in a personal way that Decorating Contest, select classes read resonates with them and changes them with Rosie the Therapy Dog, Get Caught to be more curious and inquisitive about Reading tickets toward a drawing were the world around them and connect with given for getting caught reading out loud others. I want high school students to anywhere and other gift card incentives also recognize that literacy is a gift, a gift emphasizing that reading and writing are we have all of our lives and a gift to share rewarding. with others.”
Wingspread Farm In Valrico Honored To Be Selected For 2019 Best Of Valrico Award
By Taylor Wells
quality products keep people coming, and some bring their kids and grandkids along for a fun time, like walking around the farm while feeding the chickens. “The chickens have a really nice life. They have a lot of space, and they eat a lot of fresh things from the garden. It’s really nice, people love it, they love to see it. It’s clean, and they love the smells. Ken and Andrea Schielka were shocked and honored when they realized they won the 2019 Best of Valrico Award in the Farm category.
Two local farmers in Valrico, Ken and Andrea Schielka, owners of Wingspread Farm, were very excited and honored when they were told that they won the 2019 Best of Valrico Award in the Farm category. Each year, the Valrico Award Program identifies companies that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their community and business category, focusing on quality, not quantity. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community, and they help make the Valrico area a great place to work, live and play in. When they learned that their farm won this award, they were shocked. “Neither me nor my wife thought it was real, and it turned out it was, and we’re just very honored,” said Wingspread Farm raises nearly 200 laying Ken. “It’s quite a tribute to what we chickens, which are all given a lot of space to roam and forage and eat from the do here.” garden. Andrea always wanted chickens, Grandparents, little kids, everybody and after her husband retired, that comes here,” said Andrea. dream became a reality. They started Farm tours are available; call or with one coop and put in more after text 361-1546 for an appointment. that, then they began baking bread to Andrea bakes fresh bread and cookgo with the eggs and later cookies, ies on Fridays, Saturdays and and with each addition it soon grew Sundays. into Wingspread Farm as it is today. Wingspread Farm can be found The husband and wife team on 3003 Pearson Rd. in Valrico, open designed, built and run the farm from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through themselves. It has nearly 200 laying Wednesday and from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. chickens and produces raw honey, Thursday through Sunday. jams, Hungarian smoked sausages, Visit https://wingspread.farm/ for preserves, avocados, tomatoes, pepmore information. Follow the farm on pers, cucumbers and more. Facebook @wingspreadfarm for The Hungarian-themed farm’s weekly specials and special events, convenient location, casual atmosand look for treasures in its craft barn phere, cleanliness and fresh, highwhile visiting.
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Page 30
Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Celebrate With Stories Of South Hillsborough County’s Rich Black History
By Charles Nelson
“Rural ‘Negro’ schoolhouse at Turkey Creek, c. 1925.” Source: Florida Memory Project.
Black History Month is celebrated each February as a time to remember the contributions of our brothers and sisters of color. In rural Hillsborough County, it may be a little harder to find that history because there are fewer relevant written records, but if you dig just a little, you’ll discover a rich trove of stories worth celebrating. Here are just a few: We don’t know their names, but free and enslaved African soldiers accompanied Hernando de Soto on his 1539 exploration of Florida. These explorers established their first camp near the mouth of the Little Manatee River near today’s Ruskin. In that same part of Hillsborough County, nearly 300 years later, Black Seminole hunters roamed our land from their stronghold in Angola (in today’s Bradenton) until Andrew Jackson ordered Angola‘s destruction in 1819. Early white settlers often brought small numbers of slaves into Hillsborough County after 1842 to work on small family farms. John Brandon (namesake of today’s Brandon) brought a somewhat larger group of seven slaves with him from Mississippi when he came to rural Hillsborough County in 1857.
Replica of ‘The Quarters’ near Big Bend Road, created by Lillie Jenkins Liverpool.” Source: HCC (Ruskin) Hillsborough County History Project.
Stripping Turpentine, 1890s. Source: Florida Memory Project.
Following the Civil War, newly freed blacks struggled to define their freedom. For example, in Eastern Hillsborough County, a group of twelve Black men and women founded the agricultural community of Bealesville in 1865. One of these men was Mills Holloman, who served two terms on the Hillsborough County Commission from 1868 to 1871. Other freedmen claimed their own ranches and farms as a result of the Southern Homestead Act during the Reconstruction era. Mack Hamilton established a 120-acre ranch near Cork (now Plant City) in 1877 and registered the ‘MH’ brand for his cattle. Stephen Harvell was a working cowboy for a white rancher but later claimed an 80-acre farm near Mango. In the early 20th century, Black laborers often worked in agriculture but also road building and the nearby phosphate mines. Regardless, Black laborers typically faced low pay and back-breaking labor wherever they worked. Black convicts suffered even worse conditions in local turpentine camps where brutal, slave-like conditions were the norm. One of those camps, near modern-day Ruskin, was
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called ‘Siberia’ as a tribute to its harsh environment. Just like the rest of the South, ‘Jim Crow’ laws enforced segregation in Hillsborough County in the first half of the 20th century. Florida and Hillsborough County laws required a separate ‘Negro’ school system. The callousness of that system was a constant reminder to Black citizens that the doctrine of “separate but equal” may have been separate but far from equal. None of these conditions would have surprised rural Black residents of Hillsborough County who faced segregation daily. In 1945, School Board Commissioner Ellsworth Simmons noted that the “Keysville school was a shack, the Wimauma school was in deplorable condition and the Sun City School was off its foundation.” Despite these conditions, Simmons opposed a remedy to consolidate because of projected transportation costs, not because of the ramshackle state of the schools. African Americans worked in the vegetable and strawberry fields for very low pay. They often lived in small worker communities tucked into the corners of large farms. One of those was located near Big
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Charles Nelson Bio Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in History from George Mason University and taught as an adjunct instructor at HCC (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated with Tampa Bay History Center as a volunteer docent, researcher and community lecturer, with an emphasis on South Hillsborough County history.
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Bend Rd. in Apollo Beach, where Alberta Harris lived in ‘The Elsberry Quarters’ from approximately 1956 to 1968. During World War II, farmers faced severe labor shortages that threatened the county’s farm economy. Temporary Black workers were imported from the Bahamas into Hillsborough County to save the harvest. Without their work, vegetables and fruits would have died “on the vine.” After the war, many former Black farm laborers did not return to the fields. They sought better-paying jobs in the cities and farm workers from Latin America soon replaced them. Of course, there is much more to discover about the history of the Black experience in Hillsborough County. There are certainly more stories to tell. History includes the stories of all of us, known and unknown. Each story is important.
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Page 31
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Medi-Weightloss Brandon Celebrates 14 Years Of Client Success
By Kelly Wise Valdes
The physicians and trained staff at the Medi-Weightloss clinic in Brandon are celebrating 14 years of successfully working with patients to lose weight and gain a healthier lifestyle.
Medi-Weightloss in Brandon is happy to be celebrating its 14th year of helping people reach their weight loss goals. The well-known and successful weight loss center was also voted Best of the Best in 2019 by the Tampa Bay Times. The physicians and staff at the Brandon location work with patients to develop a program that will help individuals lose weight and learn to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Many people are stuck on the dieting roller coaster. At MediWeightloss, the staff teaches clients to learn to live healthy for life. Michelle Hicks struggled with her weight for many years. With every passing year, losing weight became more difficult and the additional weight began to affect her health. “My health was starting to pay the price from years of being overweight with
high blood pressure and cholesterol,” said Hicks. “I was always tired and run down.” Hicks tried different fad diets and programs, with little success. “I’d been trying to lose weight on my own for months, with little to no results,” she recalled. “I would lose five pounds, then gain them right back.” Then Hicks discovered MediWeightloss. After she researched the physician-supervised program, she ultimately was able to change her life. At the Medi-Weightloss clinic in Brandon, a dedicated medical team, including the supervision of board-certified internist Andrew Weitzman, M.D., helps clients lose weight and learn to live healthier. After an initial consultation, a weight loss program was tailored to suit Hicks’ specific needs and she learned how to create a healthy lifestyle. Ultimately, Michelle lost an amazing 55 lbs. Medi-Weightloss reports that there are 250,000 people nationwide that have lost a combined total of over 6 million lbs. on the Medi-Weightloss Program. Unlike other programs, customers are not required to purchase pre-packaged foods; however, there are MediWeightloss foods that can be purchased as an option. To begin your weight loss journey, call the Medi-Weightloss clinic in Brandon at 654-1110. Medi-Weightloss is located at 203 W. Bloomingdale Ave. For more information, visit www.MediWeightloss.com.
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Page 32
Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com
FAIRLY NEW VW ATLAS IS A HUGE HIT!
Introduced 153.7 cubic feet in 2018, the fairly while you get an new Atlas is the astonishing 96.8 largest VW on cubic feet the road today, behind the front eclipsing its row with all rear younger sibling, seats down. the Tiguan. Like the sun to Under the hood come down on sits a sole 3.6you? Open up ATLAS (SEL) liter V-6 engine the 4.4 by 2.8Tires: 255/50R20 all season Wheelbase: 117.3 inches foot panoramic sunroof. putting out 276 horsepower Length: 198.3 inches at 6,200 rpm and 266 Amenities include an 8-inch Width: 78.3 inches pounds-feet of torque at touch screen for audio, nav Height: 70 inches 2,750 rpm. For a vehicle Steering: rack and pinion, and phone controls, tri-zone electromechanical weighing nearly 4,700, it’s auto a/c with second-row air Fuel capacity: 18.6 gallons quick off the mark, respondvents, three-spoke leather City: 17 mpg ing with agility in any situasteering column, front heatHighway: 23 mpg Base price: $48,395 tion. The midsize SUV offers ed/cooled seats and a power Website: www.vw.com an eight-speed auto gearlift gate. box. Ensconced on the uniDual front and side tary body is a robust independent fourairbags, a side curtain airbag for both wheel suspension. Tow capacity is a rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with remarkable 5,000 pounds. brake assist, Electronic Stability Available as a front-wheel or allProtection with anti-slip regulation and wheel drive (our trim), this replacement engine brake assist, traction control, lane for the Touareg appears to be attracting departure and forward collision warning, lots of attention, all good. Horizontal LED blind-spot monitor, front/rear park disheadlights and daytime running lights tance control, hill start assist and descent flank chrome bars with the centered VW control, adaptive cruise control, overhead insignia. The attractive cabin of the SUV and rearview camera, tire pressure moniepitomizes European styling and flair with toring system and daytime running lights a simple but elegant instrument panel of are standard. large analog speedometer and tachomeCompetition is fierce in the midsize ter gauges and a centered driver informa- SUV segment, but this fairly new ride has tion center. The 60/40 second row seat been receiving rave reviews from its owntilts and slides 7.7 inches forward efforters. Apart from a potent powertrain and lessly while the 50/50 third row is big good looks, a roomy third row seat and enough for two adults to sit comfortably. generous cargo hold should ensure that Passenger volume is commendable at the VW Atlas becomes a frontrunner.
Nothing Beats The Florida Orchestra Live
By Kelly Smith
No matter how many times you hear Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons in the elevator, nothing compares to the synergy of seeing it live on stage. Just like nothing matches the thrill of fingers flying across the keyboard for Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3, or the goosebumps as redemption rises from despair in Bach’s St. John Passion. Experience it all live with The Florida Orchestra throughout March and early April. Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 (Friday to Sunday, March 6-8): Here’s just one reason why Rachmaninoff’s piano concertos are so difficult: he had famously large hands that could span 12 keys. One of the toughest is his Piano Concerto No. 3, called the ‘Mount Everest’ for the piano because it’s a real thriller to watch live—especially with electrifying pianist Joyce Yang. Michael Francis conducts the program, which also includes Beethoven’s playful Symphony No. 8 and Sibelius’ final Symphony No. 7. Kids and teens get in free with Classical Kids tickets to this and all Tampa Bay Times Masterworks concerts. Be sure to come one hour early for the Pre-Concert Conversation with Maestro Francis. Bach’s St. John Passion (Friday to Sunday, March 20-22): This is the first
time The Florida Orchestra has performed Bach’s choral masterpiece retelling the Crucifixion—one of the most famous Easter works in the world. Michael Francis conducts, featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay, in venues throughout Tampa Bay. Bright Side of Beethoven Morning Coffee Concert (Wednesday and Thursday, March 25 & 26): Discover the joyful side of Beethoven with selections from Symphony No. 8, Leonore Overture, part of Piano Concerto No. 4 featuring the Young Artist Competition-winner Marco Jimenez and more. Stuart Malina conducts. Free coffee and doughnuts. Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons (Friday to Sunday, April 3-5): A night with TFO’s premier strings, directed by lead violinist Jeffrey Multer, includes Vivaldi’s timeless masterpiece along with Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings and more. Free tickets for kids and teens in advance. The Florida Orchestra performs regularly at the Straz Center in Tampa, Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Tampa Bay Times Masterworks and Raymond James Pops series tickets are $18-$48. Get tickets at FloridaOrchestra.org or 727-892-3337 or 1-800-662-7286.
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Page 33
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Lady Bulls Basketball Dynamic Duo Secures 1,000 Career Points Each By Nick Nahas November 15 to play for Rollins College in Orlando. “We came in and created our legacy here,” said Leigh. “As a freshman, I didn’t believe that I would be able to accomplish that, but as the years went by, it became more of a realistic goal that I thought I could achieve.” One week later, Nya King, the Lady Bulls’ leading scorer at 14 points per game, became the fourth player in school history to The seniors hold up their framed jerseys on score her 1,000th career point Senior Night. against Blake on January 24. She Erin Leigh and Nya King, as a pair, has several offers to play at the next have accomplished something that has level, but hasn’t made the decision on never been done before in Bloomingdale where she wants to play yet. girls basketball history. Leigh and King “I feel like I’m a part of something bigare the third and fourth players in program history to score 1,000 career points, ger than just me,” said King. “I felt relieved because this is something that and the first pair of teammates to accomI’ve been dreaming about since I was a plish this milestone in the same season. freshman, so to actually do it feels amazThey are the first players since Erica ing.” Woodard (2004) and Paris Moore (2008) Bower said that King and Leigh have to reach 1,000 points. excelled in the classroom and are leaving “Erin and Nya have helped change the program in better shape than when the culture of our program,” said Head they first got there. They started over 95 Coach Joel Bower. “Their passion for the games together and won 64% of those game and will to get better everyday has games. set the example for our younger players.” “I think that these young ladies reachErin Leigh became the third Lady Bull ing the 1,000-point milestone says that ever to score her 1,000th career point. we have kids here who work hard,” said She did it in front of the Bloomingdale Bower. home crowd on January 17 against The seniors led their team to a fanBrandon. The team’s second leading tastic season with a 19-7 record and a scorer at 12.5 points per game also regional playoff birth for the second time became the first girl’s basketball player in four years. They have made an impact from the school to sign on to play college on the floor and in the hearts of their basketball in the last 10 years when she teammates and fans. signed her National Letter of Intent on
Three Newsome Student-Athletes Have Successful National Signing Day
By Nick Nahas
On Wednesday, to set personal February 5, three records in the 1,600Newsome studentmeter run and the athletes signed their 5,000-meter run. National Letters of “I am so excited Intent to play in colto be extending my lege. running career by Lacrosse star another four years,” Ava Mullins signed said Solis. “Running in to play for college has always Oglethorpe Ashleigh Primacio signed with Saint Leo been a goal of mine, University for cross country and track. but it is a dream University in Brookhaven, come true to be taking Georgia. She will it to such a high level.” double-major in fashSolis’s teammate, ion design and busiAshleigh Primacio, ness. Her major goal signed on to be a part for college lacrosse of the cross country is to strive to be the and track teams for that she can and to Saint Leo University. never stop trying to She will major in edubecome better. cation and wants to “It’s the most be a teacher one day. Emma Solis will be attending the amazing thing I’ve Her ultimate goal is to University of Florida to run Division I be able to run a 16ever felt in my entire cross country and track. life,” said Mullins. “It minute 5K by the time all felt like a dream, she graduates colI’ve always dreamt lege. that I would play a “It feels great to sport in college, and I be able to run at the finally got to experinext level,” said ence achieving this Primacio. “I’m so longtime goal.” excited, and I have a Emma Solis will great future ahead of be attending the me.” University of Florida These three to run Division I young ladies will miss Lacrosse star Ava Mullins signed to play cross country and competing for for Oglethorpe University in Brookhaven, Georgia. track. Newsome, and their She is looking forward to running at a teammates as well. great school in a highly competitive SEC “I will miss my teammates and my conference and is especially excited to be coach,” said Primaco. “I will miss all the surrounded by a group of girls who are as traveling we get to do.” passionate and serious about running as “I’ll never forget those memories of she is. She plans on majoring in dietetics high school lacrosse,” said Mullins. and eventually wants to be a sports nutri“Running on the Newsome cross tionist for college athletes. As a future country and track teams has been the Florida Gator, her ultimate cross country most impactful part of my high school goals are to be in the top 15 as a freshcareer,” said Solis. “Through running, I man, and to score at the NCAA National have made some of my best friends. The Division I cross country meet by the time bond I share with my teammates is what I she is a senior. On the track, she wants will miss the most.”
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Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Locally Owned & Operated
Spring is in the air red patch of color on and that means it is their heads. Both the sandhill crane mating, males and the females nesting and hatching are identical. This is season. called monomorphism These stately birds and means that gender have an average height cannot be visually disof three to four feet; are tinguished by their found throughout freshappearance as they water ponds, marshes, share the same physiSandhill cranes, often seen in our prairies and pastures; area, are protected under the U.S. cal resemblances. and are commonly A species of special Bird Migratory Treaty Act. seen in residential communities. They are concern and listed as threatened in the admired and adored for their grace and state of Florida, these birds are protected beauty and can often be observed in under the U.S. Bird Migratory Treaty Act. small groups or pairs. It is illegal to feed, touch or disturb these Sandhill cranes can live up to 20 animals. It is also illegal to try and attract years in the wild and commit to one mate them to your yard with seed. monogamously during their lifetime. Like other resident species, sandhill Cranes will begin seeking a mate at cranes face many threats, including habiaround 2 years of age and courtship tat loss, habitat degradation and negative involves dancing, jumping and wing flapeffects from pollution. A general wildlife ping that is often observed this time of viewing rule: if they are looking at you or year. Only if a mate has passed away will discontinue what they are doing, you are the widowed crane seek another. probably too close and causing them Year after year, they will nest in shalstress. low waters and vegetation and lay an With less than 5,000 breeding sandaverage of two eggs. Incubation of these hill cranes in the state, admire these eggs, which will hatch one or both, lasts amazing animals from a distance and about 32 days on average. help them continue to flourish in Florida. Baby sandhill cranes are called colts, Remember to slow down for cranes as not chicks. Colts are a bright orange color they are a slow-moving bird, and always for the first couple of weeks after they adhere to the law by being a good stewhatch and are a treat to discover. ard to the environment to ensure many Adult sandhill cranes can be easily more shared generations with our wonidentified by their gray bodies and distinct derful Florida wildlife.
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Page 35
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
G ET THE DIRT WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT
Former Bloomingdale Baseball Player Completes MLB Umpire Training School
By Nick Nahas
Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension
Gardening Done Right FFL 101 is an annual educational event addressing many of the principles of the FloridaFriendly Landscaping™ program. There are nine FFL principles, which include right plantright place, water efficiently, fertilize appropriately, mulch, recycle, control yard pests responsibly, reduce stormwater runoff, attract wildlife and protect the waterfront. There will be four timely topic presentations, Right Plant-Right Place, Turfgrass and Fertilizers, Landscaping in the Shade and Edible Gardens, presented by UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County agents, staff and the Tampa Water Department. By attending FFL 101: Gardening Done Right, you will learn easy and affordable ways to practice FloridaFriendly Landscaping™ principles in your landscape. You will receive several handouts and a gift bag per registration which contains a rain gauge, Florida gardening book and much more. You will be able to browse displays featuring materials and information for your landscape, speak with UF/IFAS Extension professionals about your Florida-Friendly Landscape™ and share your favorite water-saving tips for outdoors and indoors. Bring your latest water bill and speak with our water conservation team, who may be able to save you time, water and money on irrigation.
Several educational vendors will be present and have great giveaways, such as water bottles, a FFL Guide to Plant Selection and Landscape Design, Park and Recreation Guides and much more. Other vendors have items for sale. D&D will have amazing ornamental, herb and vegetable plants. Twisted Mind Rusty Metal Owner Andy Hamilton will have his unique and crazy creations, like a dragon made from chains. Blue Sage Eco Boutique features all-natural, handpoured soy candles made with essential oils and premium fragrance oils. There is easy online registration! Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ffl-101-gardening-done-right-tickets-86030973959 or view http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/. We hope you will be able to join us from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and learn more about plant selection and placement, how and when to appropriately use fertilizer, proper turfgrass management, how to identify shade versus sun-loving plants and create a successful edible garden. This event is for Hillsborough County (all municipalities included) residents only. There is a fee of $12.50, which includes lunch, a gift bag and a soil sample. Call 744-5519 or visit us at the UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County on 5339 County Rd. 579 in Seffner. http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu.
Former tions out on the Bloomingdale field, he has to Bulls pitcher spend a good Daylon Dobish amount of time in has a chance to the classroom make it to the studying the MLB Major Leagues, rulebook and but instead of umpire’s manual as throwing strikes, well. The particiDobish (Third from left) with his fellow umpires. pants are trained by he potentially will be calling them. Daylon was invited former MLB umpires. to partake in MLB umpire training school “I came into this thinking, ‘I’ve played at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex baseball my whole life, I’m sure that I can in Vero Beach. umpire,’ but I was very quickly humbled,” Daylon played for Bloomingdale said Daylon. High School from 2012-2015. He started There are about 100 people trying out as a position player and eventually out for potential jobs at the training transitioned to pitcher, becoming an school, and only about 10 will be selectimportant two-way player for the Bulls ed from Vero Beach and another 10 will when they made their 2014 postseason be selected from the Wendelstedt run all the way to the state championship Umpire School near Daytona after gradugame. He is the only pitcher in ation for another advanced course that Bloomingdale baseball history to start a lasts a little more than a week. state championship game. Daylon umpired as a kid at 14 with After high school, he went on to play his stepfather, Jeff Dobish. The two have for Midland University, an NAIA school in a special bond that was forged by their Nebraska, where he was a four-year love of sports, baseball in particular. Jeff starter at pitcher. He graduated, and learned everything he could about the soon after he was given a unique opporgame when Daylon became interested at tunity to continue his baseball career. a young age. He even became the PA “Every baseball player dreams of announcer for Bloomingdale when going to the big leagues, but when you’re Daylon made the team. Daylon recently finishing up your senior season and took Jeff’s last name, officially becoming you’ve got a bum shoulder and it’s not a Dobish. working very well, you have to figure out If Dobish doesn’t make it right away, other ways of making it,” said Daylon. he would like to practice his craft at the Daylon has been on a strict training high school or college levels and maybe regiment during the four-week camp, even get into coaching baseball. He then waking up at 7 a.m. each day. Not only would like to attend another camp in the does he have to practice training simulafuture and try again.
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Page 36
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 19, Issue 3
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
The Brandon Ballet Presents 5th Annual Princess Tea Party
Winthrop Arts Presents The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival And Market
The Brandon nity to see and interact Ballet will host its with their favorite story fifth annual Princess ballet characters up Tea Party on close and personal. Sunday, March 8 Quite often, when you from 3 to 5 p.m. at purchase tickets to a The Regent, located ballet performance, chilat 6437 Watson Rd. dren do not have the in Riverview. Tickets opportunity to run up are $17.50 plus tax if and hug their favorite purchased in princesses, learn about advance and $20 ballet steps and enjoy plus tax at the door. delicious cupcakes.” Tickets can be purTownend added, chased at www.bran“Our Princess Tea Party donballet.org/26this so important to us. It season-events/. is a way to introduce This year’s ballet to children in an The Brandon Ballet invites everytheme is Sleeping one to the fifth annual Princess Tea engaging and exciting Beauty. Guests at Party. Children are encouraged to way. The tea gives them dress up as their favorite fairytale a chance to experience the event will have character and enjoy sweet treats, the chance to the ballet firsthand games and interacting with spend the afternoon Brandon Ballet ballerinas dressed before seeing it in the as Disney characters. with some of their theater.” favorite princesses, including Aurora, The Brandon Ballet is a nonprofit Rapunzel, Cinderella, Tiana and ballet company that provides aspiring more. pre-professional to professional artists In addition to tea party hors d’oeu- an education in the art of dance. They vres and beverages, guests can enjoy offer a Pre-Professional Training delicious princess-designed cupcakes Program that provides each dancer courtesy of Sweeties Delights. Guests with individual attention, a true college will also enjoy excerpts from the and career guidance program along upcoming Sleeping Beauty ballet. with daily classes of techniques. Children are encouraged to come The Brandon Ballet produces a dressed aa their favorite fairytale minimum of two major productions character. They will get to play and mixed repertory performances, as games, enjoy crafts and win raffle well as participation in numerous comitems. munity outreach events. The Brandon Hannah Townend, administrative Ballet is celebrating its 26th season. director of the Brandon Ballet, said, For more information on the “The Princess Tea Party is unique in Brandon Ballet and all that they have that attendees have the rare opportuto offer, visit www.brandonballet.org.
The 12th local bands and annual Winthrop a DJ. Arts Festival and No festival Market will be held would be comon Saturday, plete without March 28 from 10 food and bevera.m. to 5 p.m. and ages. on Sunday, Organizers are March 29 from pleased to 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. announce that The festival will two local food The 12th annual Winthrop Arts be held in trucks will be on Festival and Market is a juried art Winthrop festival which is free and open for hand. These the public to attend on Saturday, include Common, which is March 28 and Sunday, March 29. located in the heart Gertrude’s Low of beautiful Winthrop Town Centre (at the Country Wings and Haute Dogs. In addicorner of Hadley Commons and Winthrop tion, beer will be provided by FR Bottle Commerce Ave., behind Boca and Shop. Ciccio’s). Bryant Martinez, a member of the The 12th annual Winthrop Arts Winthrop Arts Board of Visionaries, said, Festival and Market is a juried fine arts “We are very excited for this year’s festishow. There is more than $5,000 availval. It is our 12th year, and we are happy able in prize money. The festival attracts with how the festival has grown over the artists and artisans from all over the years.” region. This year’s show will be judged by Applications for artists, artisans, three highly regarded and respected vendors and sponsors are still being judges, including Michelle Young, associaccepted. ate director of development at the Winthrop Arts is a 501(c)(3) arts Ringling Museum; Vincent Kral, chief nonprofit. In addition to the annual arts preparator at the University of South festival, Winthrop Arts provides arts Florida Contemporary Art Museum; and instruction for children, teens and adults Anthony Record, studio programs coordi- at the Art Factory, located at 11267 nator at the Tampa Museum of Art. Winthrop Main St. in Riverview. The In addition to fine artists and artisans, Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory is a the 12th annual Winthrop Arts Festival grant-funded program that provides free and Market features vendors of all kinds, art classes to underserved children who live entertainment, children’s activities and live in Southern and Eastern more. Hillsborough County. Winthrop Arts also Some of the live entertainment will offers summer art camp for children 5 feature the Brandon Ballet on Saturday, years old and up. March 28 and a band from Pepin For more information, please visit Academies also on Saturday. Other www.winthroparts.org or call Kathy at entertainment will include music from 758-5161.
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March 2020
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 37
Boost Confidence With Free Consultation At Redefine Beauty Aesthetics
By Michelle Caceres
Aging is not an easy “She’s very respectful of process to accept. In my discretionary income,” addition to dealing with said Chandler. “She never the aches and pains that tries to oversell me and realcome with an aging ly has my best interest at body, looking in the mirheart.” ror reminds us of the When Chandler’s effects that it has on our friends ask her how she appearance. keeps her youthful Fortunately, Carolyn appearance, she is Agnew, ARNP-C, MSN refreshingly honest with at Redefine Beauty them. “I just tell them the Aesthetics specializes in Carolyn Agnew, ARNP-C, MSN procedures I’ve had done of Redefine Beauty Aesthetic treatments and anti-aging uses nonsurgical treatments to and to go and see Agnew,” techniques that can take she said. Agnew is humbled help patients. years off your appearance and boost your when patients trust her enough to refer confidence. their friends and family to her. Agnew, with more than 12 years in “As women, we are under a lot of aesthetics, offers complimentary consulta- pressure from society to always look tions, taking time to talk with each patient young and refreshed,” she commented. “I about their goals and creating a cuslove using a combination of therapies to tomized nonsurgical treatment plan that keep patients looking fresh but not overwill return the youthful appearance of corrected and more comfortable in their years past. own skin.” Sometimes patients desire outcomes Redefine Beauty Aesthetics offers that can’t be achieved with her services. skin rejuvenation treatments, including “If a patient needs a face-lift to get Botox, dermal fillers, Kybella, chemical the level of correction they want, I will not peels, IPL/photofacial, fractional skin sell them on fillers because they won’t be resurfacing, laser hair removal, tattoo satisfied with the results,” she said. As removal and micro-channeling/micropart of the medical community, Agnew will needling. refer patients to physicians, such as plasIn addition to Agnew, Redefine tic surgeons or dermatologists, to get a Beauty Aesthetic’s staff includes aesthetifull spectrum of care. cian Martha Bugarin. Plant City resident Cheri Chandler Redefine Beauty Aesthetics, located didn’t need a plastic surgeon. A spry 62at 405 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon, is open year-old, Agnew uses a combination of Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. facials, Botox and HIFU (high-intensity For information or to schedule a free focused ultrasound) to keep Chandler consultation, visit www.relooking her best. definebeauty.com or call 820-3138.
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Page 38
Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
‘Co Nancy Nowakowski
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Ms. ki ows Nowak er
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Teacher Of The Mon
come a teacher? Why did you decide to be make an ence, be a role model and I wanted to make a differ I grew up rk. in which I live and wo impact in the community wait to n’t up to sundown. I could playing each day from sun urs on ho es with my friends for get to the park, playing gam to pursue my dream of for me end! It only made sense ch others ation teacher. I could tea uc ed cal ysi ph becoming a ysicalwhat I love to do, “be ph ly active!”
a What is a goal of yours as teacher? ucation teacher, my goal ed cal As the physi rstand the phrase is for our students to unde h!” Learning “Your health is your wealt ive, eating how to be active, stay act free is what I healthy and staying drug day for my stupromote and model each e this goal. dents to be able to achiev moments Any embarrassing teacher Ms. Now akows you are willing to share? in ht rig 32 years ki has been tea nd ble I en oft ”, ch in the sc Being only 5’2 hool sys ing for tem. down the with the students waking , calling out for her friend halls. There was a student student said I see what was going on the when I turned around to ! so…not realizing it was me thought you were so and and why? s us that What is your favorite book book, Tony Dungy remind the In y. ng Du ny To by bit of strength Quiet Strength n, and I would need every thi wi d an d Go m fro s strength come I could muster up. that you live by? Is there a quote or saying do wrong!” “There’s NO right way to
system? uld change in our school op into the Is there anything you wo have ample time to devel to ed ne y the d an s, kid ectaKids need to be . Having high academic exp me co be to d ne sti de e y’r sole future leaders the nt, but it shouldn’t be the rta po im ely rem ext is nts ’t lose sight of tions for our stude ell-rounded,’ and we can ‘w be to s an me l sfu ces focus. To be suc uth. otional aspects of our yo the physical, social and em
Colleen Bevis Elementary PTA Selected For STEM + Families Math Night Grant
By Mia Cafaro
The Middle and high Colleen Bevis school students, Elementary parents and PTA was teachers from recently awardBevis voluned the STEM + teered to help Families Math with the games Night Grant and keep the The Bevis Elementary night running for $1,000. PTA and the Mathnasium The grant is staff worked hard to put smoothly. together this event. intended to “The be used to "STEM + Families Math Night” event is engage famtruly a community builder,” said Kym ilies in math Taylor with the Bevis PTA. “It brings education, together students, their families, school and it was faculty, administration and community put to good partner service providers, with a common use at a Math Night on February 13. goal to communicate that math is not only Close to 300 students and their fami- relevant, but fun.” lies attended this event, which had food The night ended with a raffle, which and games meant to prove that math is parents entered by completing an online not only an important skill to learn, but survey. The prizes were baskets of can also be fun and easily accessible to STEM-related games specific to different everyone. grade levels, paid for by the grant. “Mathnasium benefits the community Bevis Elementary PTA was one of by helping students understand that math just 35 PTAs to receive this grant, only is not for an elite class of people,” said two of which were in Florida. Alejandro Cano, a Mathnasium employee “Our community is comprised of busy who volunteered at the event. families who desire to prioritize family The evening began with dinner protime, but who are pulled - often away vided by Chick-fil-A and desserts providfrom one another - by the demands of ed by Eddie Bull’s Cookie Dough. Bevis school, work, sports, volunteer and extraPTA President Rachel Andrews made a curricular obligations,” said Taylor. “Math speech during which she discussed the Night allows families to just ‘show up’ as importance of the event and how hard the they are, without even the need to plan PTA had worked to put it together. dinner, with no requirements aside from Mathnasium of Brandon provided a enjoying one another and experiencing variety of math-related games for the stumath as fun.” dents to play, each catered to different To learn more about STEM + age groups so there was something for Families’ grants, go to pta.org. Check out every student. This included puzzles, mathnasium.com to find out how addition and multiplication games and Mathnasium is working to make math coloring with shapes, among other things. easily understandable for all ages.
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March 2020
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 39
Valrico Resident Earns The Stars And Stripes Award From The American Heritage Girls
Tampa Kids Camp To Host Benefit Dinner With Special Keynote Speaker
The words “I Daniel Duncan had promise to love God, mentioned that Balm cherish my family, Baptist Church, locathonor my country, ed in Wimauma, and serve in my comprayed for a commermunity” are what the cial-grade playground members of American and sought to get Heritage Girls recite their old basketball as part of their oath in court replaced. corporation with the Warrington took on a principles of its pro$30,000 project as gram. A member of she chose to serve American Heritage Balm Baptist Church Valrico resident Emily Warrington Girls Troop FL2031 at receives the Stars & Stripes Award by getting its basketKings Avenue Baptist ball court refurbished through the American Heritage Girls. Church in Brandon, through MF Concrete Emily Warrington, who resides in Services, LLC, along with purchasing Valrico, recently earned the highest and installing a playground. recognition by being rewarded the Before accomplishing this project Stars & Stripes Award, which she felt Warrington persevered through a honored to receive. Warrington is the challenge that she came across. 587th girl nationally and the 23rd girl “Over the span of 10 months I in Florida to receive the award. searched for companies to replace American Heritage Girls was the basketball court within my budget, established in 1995 and is a premier and thankfully MF Concrete Services, national character development LLC did that,” Warrington said. “God organization for young women ages also provided the funds and so much 5-18. The group encourages family more to get the job done.” involvement and advocates Christian Troop Coordinator of Troop values. Currently, Troops can be FL2031 Holly Rowlette shared about found in 15 countries and all states. her happiness for Warrington. Candidates for the Stars & “Emily worked hard to achieve Stripes Award complete a service this and I am thrilled to have our secproject that they get to plan, lead and ond Stars & Stripes recipient in our implement. Warrington knew that she Troop,” Rowlette said. wanted to be involved with a project For more information, visit that benefits children. An opportunity www.americanheritagegirls.org. arose for her as she spoke with one Those interested in joining Troop of her pastors at FishHawk FL2031 should email Fellowship Church in Lithia. Pastor ahgfl2031@gmail.com.
Tampa Kids ronment. Counselors Camp exists to demonstrate unconmake the lives of ditional love while foster children bethelping to create ter through lifepositive memories changing summer and building selfcamps. This sumworth. mer, the nonprofit The ‘Royal will host two camps Family KIDS Camp’ for foster children is for children ages ages 6-15 who 6-11. The weeklong The campers come from backgrounds of have experienced overnight camp will abuse, neglect and abandonment. abuse, abandonbe held from June ment or neglect. 15-19. Along with traditional The 100 percent volunteercamp activities, the week will operated camps are free to the include a carnival, birthday campers. To raise funds and bash, waterworks and much awareness, Tampa Kids Camp more. will hold a benefit dinner at The The ‘Royal Teen Camp’ is for Regent in Riverview on Thursday, ages 12-15 with two separate sesMarch 26 at 6:30 p.m. The dinner sions. The boys’ camp will be held will feature a silent auction and a from Thursday to Saturday, July 9keynote speaker. Loryn Smith, 11 and the girls’ camp from M.S.W., the owner and CEO of Finally Monday to Wednesday, July 13-15. Home Christian Adoption Services, has Smith continued, “All the staff are volthe keynote speaker honors. unteers, giving up a week or two of their Smith, a mother of 20 children of time to invest in the lives of these chilwhich 13 are adopted, will speak about dren, not only providing them with a week her 30 plus years of experience in the of fun and experiences but making an child welfare system. More information on impact that can have lifelong value.” Smith and her adoption agency can be All counselors undergo background found at www.finallyhomecas.com. checks and training. To find out more or Smith has also been a camp therato volunteer, pist and said this regarding the camp, visit www.TampaKidsCamp.org. “Children have the opportunity to be ‘norTickets to the benefit dinner may also mal kids’ for a week in a structured, healbe purchased online. All proceeds go ing environment.” toward sponsorships for foster kids to With a ratio of one adult to one child, attend summer camp. Corporate sponcampers receive extra attention and the sorships are also available. For any ques‘royal treatment’ in a safe and caring envi- tions, email camp@tampakidscamp.org.
By Tatiana Ortiz
By Amanda Boston
Page 40
Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo Takes Flight This March The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is a 46-yearold event that began with a group of pilots who got together to have a fly-in. The fly-in has grown over the years to include a trade show, career fair, educational workshop and an air show. “Since the beginning, this event has been created and supported by volunteers,” said SUN ‘n FUN’s director of marketing and public relations, Carol Cali. “Even today, with a paid staff of 25 and 3,500 volunteers, we put on a six-day event for 225,000 guests. In 2012, we created the Aerospace Center for Excellence, and our event became our largest fundraiser. With a lot of work and diligence, the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo raises over $2M for our programs. Of that, $500K is attributed to scholarships.” The expo will be held from Thursday to Sunday, March 31 to April 5 at Aerospace Center for Excellence in Lakeland. Tickets for the event cost $39 for adults, $18 for youth ages 7-17 and children 6 years old or younger are free. Members of SUN ‘n FUN can purchase discounted tickets. Cali and her team have worked hard to make this year’s expo a unique experience for all who attend. “In addition to the daily high-adrenaline air shows, we have two night shows that are off the chain, performers with lights and fireworks per-
Bark For Life Event Promises Dogs And Dog Lovers A Fun-Filled Time At Riverview High School
By Libby Hopkins
Psychology Today reported that spending time with a pet can boost your health and happiness and have an immense impact on humans in Bark For Life will take need. Since sciplace at Riverview ence and mediHigh School on cine have caught Saturday, March 7. on to the healing power of man’s best friend for cancer patients, the American Cancer Society invites you to Bark For Life on Saturday, March 7 on the front lawn of Riverview High School from 8-10 a.m. Bark For Life will include a tribute walk, pet costume contest, K-9 demonstration, vendors, food and drinks, giveaway pet bandanas and goody bags, a bounce house and a silent auction. Tammy Schoonover, senior community development manager at the American Cancer Society, said “This is the first time that the American Cancer Society has hosted a Bark For Life fundraiser in the Riverview area, but all dog owners, dog lovers and especially dogs will have a chance to participate in many family and canine-friendly events.” There is a tribute walk course in the shape of a dog bone that was designed by volunteer Charles Vin Coli, which offers long and short options for the mile walk. If you or your dog enjoy ‘putting
forming to music,” Cali said. “Sixty world-renowned aerobatic performers, coupled with military might of the USAF Thunderbirds, the F-35A Lightning Demo Team and more will take to the skies while attendees walk among warbird legends, military displays and the like.” This year, the expo will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII as well as a STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) competition. “For the kids, we’ve added a STEMtastic Youth area which will showcase fun, STEM educational activities for kids of all ages in addition to workshops,” Cali said. “We have over 500 exhibitors, including many plane manufacturers, a three-day career fair and more. Lots of food options and live entertainment too across 2,000 acres of fun, so wear walking shoes, and we will have trams available as well. We also have all sorts of upgrade opportunities too, including the 9/27 Club.” Cali and her team hope the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo will inspire all who attend. “Our primary objective is to inspire the public to get excited about opportunities in aerospace, which includes traditional aviation careers,” Cali said. “If we accomplish that, the rest falls in place.” Visit www.flysnf.org. The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Center for Excellence is located at 4175 Medulla Rd. in Lakeland.
By Gwen Rollings on the dog,’ a pet costume contest will be held at 9 a.m. with $50 gift cards awarded in each of five categories: 1) best homemade costume, 2) best themed group, 3) best pet/human duo, 4) best food/drink theme and 5) best celebrity/sports
theme. There will be a K-9 demonstration at 9:30 a.m. by dogs trained in homeland security measures and commands, and members of a local 4-H Club will be there to make a K-9 agility presentation. Dr. Kim Tyson of Four Paws Veterinary Hospital, a proud sponsor of the event, has volunteered her time and talents in all aspects of Bark For Life, which includes obtaining additional sponsorships, coordinating volunteers and fund raising efforts. As a veterinarian, Dr Tyson said that she understands how important canine companions can be to a cancer patient’s recovery. A registration fee of $15 per dog or $10 per additional dog(s) prior to the event is encouraged at relayforlife.org/barkriverviewfl, or call 5902861 for more information. You and your leashed, people-friendly dogs are promised a doggone good time.
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March 2020
Page 41
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Rolling Pin Cooking Up Great Food, Cookware & Green Eggs For 25 Years
By Michelle Caceres
Rolling Pin filling. Kitchen Emporium “We try to opened its doors on offer a little someFebruary 15, 1995 thing for everyas a store in one,” he said. Brandon Town “From steakhouse Center mall, now to sushi, date night Westfield Brandon. to kids and tweens In 2006, it relocatclasses, it’s a fun Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium celebrates 25 ed to its current night out to learn years in business. home in the how make some Brandon Crossroads shopping really good recipes, and you get center. This year marks 25 years to eat them too.” in business offering an excellent Riverview resident Darlene selection of gourmet cookware, Cervik has been attending bakeware, kitchen knives, Big cooking classes at the store for Green Eggs and cooking classes to more than 10 years. “Instead of everyone from casual cooks to serieating in a restaurant I book a ous chefs. demonstration class at Rolling At the helm of the shop are Pin,” she said. “I know I will have a husband and wife duo Chef Dave fun and entertaining night out and and Karen West, who said their current eat a delicious, multi-course meal with home is a sprawling 4,500 sq. ft. space drinks too,” she said. located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon, Its 7,000th cooking class will take which includes a 3,500 sq. ft. retail store place in the month of February. The store that houses more than 12,000 brandhas hit the longevity trifecta. It boasts name kitchen items (like All-Clad, Breville longevity in time in business, long-term and Wusthof) and a 1,000 sq. ft. culinary customers and employees who prove loycenter. It’s also the only authorized platalty is not a thing of the past. Gail Doty, inum Big Green Egg dealer in Brandon, for instance, has worked for the Wests for selling all seven Egg sizes, EGG char20 years. coal, more than 150 of the most popular Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is EGGcessories, cooking islands and open on Sunday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., tables, modular nesting system and Big Monday to Wednesday from 10 a.m.-6 Green Egg sauces and seasoning. p.m. and Thursday to Saturday from 10 Chef Dave spends most of his time a.m.-9 p.m. with his team of chefs in the culinary cenFor more information about Rolling ter, making sure the six to nine cooking Pin Kitchen Emporium or to register for a classes per week, both hands-on and cooking class, visit https://rollingpinondemonstrations, are fun, informative and line.com or call 653-2418.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 19, Issue 3
Photos courtesy of BSHS cheerleading program
Bloomingdale Cheerleading Program Earns First Nationals Appearance In School History The storied Bloomingdale High School cheerleading program has won many titles, but recently they have added another accomplishment to the mantle with its first-ever National High School Cheerleading Championship appearance. They joined five other Hillsborough County teams in Orlando at Disney World for the competition on February 7. The team had a busy 2019-2020 season, both on the football field and on the competition mat, cheering at 12 football games, competing in four mini competitions in the county, finishing third at the western conference final, second in regionals, while also competing in states and nationals. They The team traveled to Orlando for the national had a huge setback at the state comcompetition. petition, when one of their teammates “It’s been a tough year with a lot of tore her ACL on the mat. They had to injuries,” said Head Coach Tracy leave the floor and redo their routine on DiPrima. “We have had a year of ups and the spot, and as a result, they finished downs, and for these kids to finish as fourth. After states, they finished 13th out strong as they did, I think I’m most proud of 22 teams at nationals after sustaining of the fact that they overcame a lot and multiple injuries and routine changes. they had a great work ethic.” Strawberry Crest went on to win the DiPrima helped build Bloomingdale national championship in their separate into a legitimate contender back in 2003 coed division. when she took the job. She left the pro-
also an academic coach at Bloomingdale, working with the new teachers on campus as a mentor. “I came back from my districtlevel position because I missed the kids, I missed the school environment and I missed Bloomingdale, so it’s been a nice return home,” said DiPrima. DiPrima said that nationals is a fairly new concept for Hillsborough County. Teams from the county didn’t compete in that particular competition when she was the head coach the first time around. DiPrima and her assistant coach, former Bloomingdale cheerleader The Bloomingdale cheerleading program competed in nationals for the first time in school history. Bethany Wallace, are now trying to rebuild the program after they had gram in 2009 to work for the school disa few lean years following the 2011 state trict as a mentor for new teachers after title, of which Wallace was a part. back-to-back state championships in Qualifying for nationals at their regional 2008 and 2009. Those state champicompetition is a huge step. onships were the first in the school disAccording to DiPrima, the girls will trict’s history. The same group of cheerget together to work in the off-season to leaders also won the 2011 state champiprepare for next season. They will officialonship. DiPrima then worked in profesly start up again in May, and tryouts will sional development downtown before takbe at the beginning of June. ing the program back over in 2017. She is
March 2020
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Newsome Boys Soccer Team Claims Second District Title In The Last Three Seasons
By Nick Nahas
The Newsome Newsome was led on boys soccer the field by team had a Owen Lucey, tremendous who was the turnaround team’s leadseason, going ing scorer 14-2-3 overall with 11 goals. after a 5-11-4 Senior Zian campaign the Church added previous seafive goals and son. They junior Matt also won Almond has Photo courtesy of Newsome boys soccer team helped their second district title in The Newsome boys soccer team defeated Riverview anchor the 2-1 in double-overtime on February 6 in the 7Athe last three back line of District 8 championship game. years when the defense. they beat Riverview 2-1 in doubleLucy, a four-year starter, has been a overtime on February 6 in the 7Akey player for the Wolves not only in District 8 championship game. this season’s turnaround but also as The Wolves hosted the first round a building block for the program, havof regionals against East Ridge outing helped shape the soccer team in side of Orlando from Clermont on recent years. February 13 and lost 4-0. “He’s taken over our leadership They are led by eight-year Head role this year and somewhat last year Coach Allen Ware. Ware coached at too as a junior, but this year especialBrandon for 15 years prior and at ly he has taken over that role,” said Bloomingdale for a couple of years Ware. “He’s determined, he doesn’t before getting the Newsome job. accept losing.” Ware thinks that East Ridge was the Twice Newsome has gone to the best team they have faced all season. final eight, which is the furthest that “Last year, we had one of our the Wolves have gone in the state worst years in a long time,” said tournament in the school’s history. Ware. “To lose 11 games last year Ware said that the Wolves would and to end up 14-2-3 this year, it’s the have had to play better than they turnaround, the buy-in the boys had, have all season, mixed with the right that is what the coaching staff is most combination of luck to go along with proud of. The boys have done everytremendous skill and a lot of heart to thing they could, they don’t want to be able to claim the title, but things lose. They fight every game.” just didn’t go their way this time.
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Page 44
Volume 19, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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