Bloomingdale/FishHawk
21
April 2021
Volume 20, Issue 4
Ph: 657-2418
See Article On Page 36
CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
FLIGHT TO HONOR MISSION #6 FLY VETERANS TO WASHINGTON D.C. TO BE RECOGNIZED FOR SERVICES
By Tatiana Ortiz
Veterans of Flight to Honor Mission #5 visited the World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.
to Honor Mission are considered eligible. Top priority will be given to terminally ill and World War II veterans, followed by veterans from the Korean, Vietnam and Gulf Wars and eras. Veterans will fly for free. To become a Guardian, one must be between the ages of 18 and 75, along with not being the spouse or significant other to the veteran. Guardians will be required to pay their own expenses with a $500 donation. Retired United States Air Force Col. Gary Clark, chairman of the Polk County Veterans Council, expressed his gratitude towards those who support this. “This is an important event for the community and [we] appreciate all of the support,” Clark said. Clark stated that anyone interested in welcoming back the veterans as they get off the plane from their trip can come to the Lakeland Linder International Airport in the tarmac area, where it is expected to land around 8 to 8:30 p.m. For more information or to apply, visit https://www.polkveteranscouncil.com/ home.html, email flighttohonorpolk@ gmail.com or call 863-646-5966.
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Through the Flight to Honor Polk program with the Polk County Veterans Council, veterans will be recognized for their services and sacrifice during the upcoming Flight to Honor Mission #6. On Tuesday, April 27, 80 veterans, as well as their assigned trained Guardians who will accompany them on their oneday trip to Washington D.C., will get an opportunity to visit the memorials, such as the World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial erected in honor of their services. The mission will depart early in the morning and return to Lakeland Linder International Airport in the evening. Flight to Honor Polk became established in January 2015. When it comes to goals, Flight to Honor Polk abides by three objectives. One would be to make sure the veterans get to and from their destinations safely. Another objective is to give the community an opportunity to show their appreciation. Lastly, the third objective is to press upon the young people about the importance of doing for others. All veterans who did not participate in a previous Honor Flight Mission or Flight
STRAWBERRY CREST GRAD KENZIE WHEELER TAKES CENTER STAGE ON THE VOICE By Hayley Fedor
With his classic, unforgettable reference old-time country to Wheeler’s mullet, voice, Southern calling him a “unicorn” charm and the ulwith “the party in the timate mullet to back, he’s got the shaved match, Dover ressides, but then the rare ident and Strawwidow’s peak.” Inspired berry Crest High by his dad and a few of School 2016 gradhis friends with mullets, uate Kenzie WheelWheeler decided er took his chances to grow his out auditioning on a few years back NBC’s singing comand now it is part petition, The Voice, of his identity; and blew the judgplus, his fans love Kenzie Wheeler holding his Team Kelly es away. His perit. formance of Keith jacket, which he received after choosing Kelly “I just hope that they Clarkson as his coach on The Voice. Whitley’s “Don’t can relate to me and the Close Your Eyes” caused not just one, but songs I sing on the show; obviously, I hope all four judges to turn their chairs in ap- they like my voice and whatever music I proval. come out with in the future,” said Wheeler. Wheeler’s passion for singing and counBe sure to keep an eye out for Wheeler’s try music stems from his mother’s love for next performance on The Voice, which will the genre which she passed on to him over air on NBC in the upcoming weeks. the years. “Growing up listening in the car and my mom would always play CDs in the living room on our old stereo, so that’s kind of where it came from. Since I was little, I’ve always loved country music,” said Wheeler. Born and raised in the Dover area, Wheeler became involved in the community through music as he got older, singing karaoke both at home and at Uncle Mike’s Bar and Grill in Plant City weekly during high school. This led to many other opportunities for Wheeler, like releasing his own album titled Dover in 2018. His journey with The Voice began last year with a video performance he sent to the show, which led to his first audition in North Carolina and then in California for the blind auditions in front of The Voice judges. Despite a few performance nerves, Wheeler said, “Once I took a deep breath and walked out on stage, I started singing and I always get in kind of a zone.” IN THIS ISSUE: When it came down to choosing a coach, DYNAMIC PAINTING CONTEST PG 4 Kelly Clarkson became a clear choice for Wheeler, given that Blake Shelton had IMAGE 360 ............................................PG 22 been blocked and Clarkson had won with EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 25-26 two country artists before on the show. SUMMER CAMPS.......................PGS 31-38 During the audition, Shelton made an
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Page 2
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 3
FOSSIL VALLEY GIRL SCOUT TROOPS COMPLETE OWN AMAZING RACE IN FISHHAWK By Hayley Fedor
THE BLOOMINGDALE YOUTH SPORTS ASSOCIATION CHARTERS A BAMBINO BUDDY-BALL LEAGUE
“They had to work together to solve the clues and they had to pay attention to details,” said Dumas. Within the race, Dumas and Clay incorporated elements of a Girl Scout tradition known as Thinking Day, which teaches the members about different cultures around the world where Girl Scouts practice. At each location in the race, the participants received “tiny During the Amazing Race, Girl Scout troops like Troop #3505, safety pins and they had differpictured here, learned about different cultures through a variety ent themes on them, so they got of challenges. the flag and the country colors,” Two fundamental principles taught in said Dumas. Girl Scout programs around the world One of the most widely enjoyed chalare to face challenges and learn from setlenges of the Amazing Race was creating backs. With the pandemic, the Fossil Valley marshmallow shooters out of balloons Girl Scouts in FishHawk were faced with and solo cups, which were used to launch a setback when the annual Girl Scout ena number of marshmallows into a bucket campment, which is a much-anticipated in order to complete the challenge. At the overnight camping activity, was canceled. Well, two Fossil Valley Girl Scout parent middle of the race, the Girl Scouts had to leaders, Brandy Dumas and Nicki Clay, ex- strategize to earn their lunch by learning emplified exactly what it means to face a Morse code and solving messages. “Each clue was designed to have some challenge when they created their version sort of education part to it,” said Dumas. of the television show The Amazing Race While some of the troops took around as a COVID-safe event for the girls to par3 and a half hours to complete the race, ticipate in. others took up to 5 hours; however, at the The event took place on February 28 and included 10 different locations throughout finish line, all racers were rewarded with FishHawk with different challenges at Kona Ice snow cones and a notable coneach spot and the finish line at the Fish- gratulations from Juliette Gordon Low, founder of Girl Scouts of the USA, who Hawk Girl Scout camp. Around 143 Girl Scouts, ranging from made a special appearance. Around 45 older Girl Scouts and parent second to ninth grade, participated in the volunteers made the event a great success. event, and 24 troops total ran the AmazTo learn more about the Fossil Valley Girl ing Race, learning essential skills like teamScouts, visit www.gswcf.org. work.
The Bloomingdale Youth Sports Associa- mates. Games last four innings or 90 mintion is more than just a home to travel base- utes (whichever comes first) and Bambino ball and softball teams, it is an organization Buddy-Ball emphasizes the relaxed feel of that provides the games by prohibathletes with iting scorekeeping and the opportucompetition between nity to foster managers. Through the their love of relaxed and friendly atsports in a safe mosphere of the games, and encourathletes and buddies aging environexperience construcment. One of tive and sportsmanlike the programs friendships to “develop offered by the confidence and posiBloomingdale tive self-esteem.” Youth Sports In many divisions, Association is players are assigned Bambino Buda buddy—a volundy-Ball. teer (usually a family Bambino member or high school B u d d y - B a l l Bambino Buddy-Ball volunteer assists athlete during student) to assist the was founded players with fielding, his at-bat. in 2000 to batting and baserun“encompass players who are either physi- ning during the games. Parents of the athcally and/or mentally challenged and yearn letes can indicate whether their child will to play the game of softball and baseball.” need a buddy and the extent to which the The program is part of the Babe Ruth buddy will have to assist their athlete on the League, which is affiliated with the baseball field. High school volunteers receive service and softball leagues of the Bloomingdale hours by assisting players and the team Youth Sports Association. The Babe Ruth throughout the season, which consists of League celebrates its 70th anniversary this weekly games. year and is one of the premier baseball and The Bambino Buddy-Ball League desoftball leagues for children worldwide. scribes the volunteer opportunity as “an “Babe was a man who loved children and emotionally rewarding experience for all baseball,” Claire Ruth, the second wife of involved as Buddy-Ball allows the buddies baseball legend Babe Ruth, said. “He could to feel good about helping their challenged receive no greater tribute than to have a friends, while at the same time making it a youth baseball program named after him.” fun and memorable time for all.” The Bambino Buddy-Ball division allows For more information on Bambino Bud5 to 20-year-olds to participate in short, dy-Ball or the Bloomingdale Youth Sports noncompetitive games to encourage phys- Association, visit bysafl.com or email bysaical activity and friendships among team- florida@gmail.com.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FLORIDA HAWKS FUTBOL CLUB ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH CLUB IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
By Kate Quesada
At Florida Hawks wide after a rigorous Futbol Club, skills and application process. winning games are According to De important, but the Brigard, the Players club, which offers First membership rerecreational and comquires that clubs are petitive soccer teams player-centered and from age 4 to adult, provide support in five also places a big focus key areas: Club Develon growing players off opment, Coaching Dethe field. To this end, velopment, Parent Enthe Hawks have regagement & Education cently made three exand Player Health & citing announcements Safety. Clubs applying that will help players for the Players First learn in different ways. license, which must Coaches and players at Florida Hawks FutThe first is a part- bol Club are participating in a partnership be renewed every two nership with FC De- with FC Deportivo, a soccer club in Trinidad years, are reviewed by portivo, a soccer club and Tobago. The first part of this partnership US Club Soccer. in Trinidad and To“We believe this to is a uniform and equipment drive where Hawks families will donate items to the bago. According to be the most rigorous partner club. Director of Coaching and comprehensive Juan De Brigard, this long-term relation- attempt in U.S. Soccer history to identiship will be a true partnership with the fy those clubs that have demonstrated a goal of offering players at both clubs a commitment to creating the kind of infrawider worldview. structure and culture necessary to provide “We expect that our players will learn a the best overall environment for players,” lot from seeing how a club in another part US Club Soccer CEO Kevin Payne said. of the world operates,” he said. One of the ways the Hawks are offerDe Brigard is starting the partnership ing development to players is through a with a uniform and equipment drive where new agreement with IMG Academy to Hawks families will pass no-longer-needed be a part of the IMG Academy Affiliate items to the other club, but he also plans Club Program. The program allows select to set up a coach exchange program where players to gain exposure to IMG Academy he and other members of the Hawks will training and performance plans and partictravel to Trinidad and Tobago and repre- ipate in up to 12 games in a seasonal year. sentatives from there will come to FishTry-outs for the club’s competitive teams Hawk. are scheduled for early May. FLorida Hawks FC was also recently recFor information on all these programs, ognized as a Players First licensed club, an visit www.floridahawksfc.com or contact honor given to few organizations nation- De Brigard at doc@floridahawksfc.com.
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Volume 20, Issue 4
DYNAMIC PAINTING USA DONATES EXTERIOR PAINT JOB TO SINGLE MOM FOR MOTHER’S DAY By Marie Gilmore For more than 12 years, Dynamic Paint- business grow and I’m proud to give back ing USA has been celebrating its anniver- with the Painting from the Heart camsary each year by donating a free exterior paign.” home paint job to a local deserving family. According to Silver, he has donated And this year, on average the company $2,500-$3,000 will choose a of exterior single mom to paint jobs every give the prize year for close to, just in time to 10 years. for Mother’s The Painting Day. from the Heart The Painting campaign gives from the Heart exterior paint campaign, jobs to single sponsored by mothers on Dynamic PaintMother’s Day ing and the Os- Local single mom Daniella Vetencourt was the recipient of a and servicemen prey Observer, free exterior home makeover from Dynamic Painting USA. or veterans Applications are now open for this year’s prize. is designed to during the holigive an exterior home days. For the last 10 years, paint job to a local famihe has also given $3,000ly with a single mother in $4,000 in certificates to need. local charities for room Since 2011, 12 exterimakeovers every year. or home paint jobs have “If I can make a small been donated and famdifference in somebody’s ilies all across Hillsborlife by giving a paint job ough County have been away, then I’d love to do the recipients. Potential that,” added Silver. recipients must write up In addition to Painting a 500-word essay on why they would like from the Heart, Silver has been involved as a paint job and must include a picture of a guardian for Honor Flight of West Centheir house in order to be eligible. Certain tral Florida, taking WWII veterans on a restrictions apply. Entries can be emailed trip to Washington D.C. for the day. He has to rsilver_dynamicpainting@verizon.net also been a member of Rotary, local chamor texted to 388-3121. bers and more. “I started my business in 2007 and did For more information on Dynamic Paintmost of the painting myself,” said Owner ing USA, visit its website at http://dynamRob Silver. “The community has helped my icpaintingusa.com or call 689-9333.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2021
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FindYourVaccine is a national COVID-19 vaccine finder, and it has expanded its live coverage to the state of Florida. FindYourVaccine shows up-todate vaccine availability and eligibility for vaccine sites across our state. The website, run entirely by volunteers, maps live updates for Floridians on which sites have the vaccine in stock, which are taking appointments and how to get in line. “We started FindYourVaccine about three and a half weeks ago,” said Creator Dylan Alban. “Fletcher Heisler and I had both independently been following the vaccine rollout in different states and we were frustrated at the lack of a cohesive national vaccine portal, or any cohesion amongst the wildly different rollouts happening in each state. We figured that it would take time for a web-based federal resource to come online, and we wondered if there was something we could do in the meantime to help pick up the slack. So, we started FindYourVaccine as an all-volunteer project.” The basics of the website were built over a weekend and launched with a basic summary page on current vaccine availability and eligibility in every state. “From there, we realized we could dig in and help cover individual states more directly, so we launched our live coverage operation for Florida and, soon after, Colorado,” Alban said. “Our teams
of volunteer callers reach out regularly to every vaccine provider in the state to check on current vaccine availability and eligibility. The results of each call go onto a searchable map of the Sunshine State.” Volunteers for the website have been very busy keeping the information on the site current. “Our volunteers are on the phone with providers in Florida and Colorado every day. We do our best to call every provider in each of our focus states at least twice a week and our development team is working hard to try to pull in more automated data from providers,” Alban said. “We are also working with Infinitus Systems, which developed a digital assistant to automate calls into some pharmacies for us using AI. The most common challenge we hear from our callers is just how difficult it is, sometimes, to get a live person on the other line at a provider site. It’s also hard to standardize; each site has its own challenges and often the site has to make its own internal prioritization of who gets its limited set of doses. We recognize that these providers are often overwhelmed with requests, and we hope that by centralizing efforts we can actually help cut down on the burden of answering so many calls every day.” To learn more about FindYourVaccine, visit www.findyourvaccine.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
TOURISM INDUSTRY GETS SUPPORT FROM HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY COUNCIL
By Brad Stager
From theme parks viewed online via with wild rides to the county’s remote nature wilwebsite or Youderness, there’s Tube channel. plenty of recreation The next TDC for local residents to meeting is on Frienjoy. These attracday, May 14 from tions are also pop10:30 a.m.-12 ular with visitors Noon. to the area and the The most reHillsborough Councent meeting, ty Tourist Developheld on Februment Council (TDC) There is more than just the beach and theme parks ary 11, was an works toward makopportunity for to enjoy when visiting the Tampa Bay area, such ing them feel wel- as backwater explorations in Eastern Hillsborough members to reCounty. come while creating view the finanopportunities for related businesses. cial impact of the pandemic on tourism The council does so by preparing a plan revenue. It included a presentation by Santo develop tourism in Hillsborough Coun- tiago Corrada, president and CEO of Visit ty to the Board of County Commissioners Tampa Bay, that had detailed hotel occu(BOCC) and recommends ways to spend pancy numbers for the region, showing tourism-related tax revenue. tourist lodgings in Eastern Hillsborough The TDC is staffed by 11 members, in- County as faring better than those in areas cluding seven residents who have ties to more dependent on convention or theme the local tourism and hotel industries who park traffic. are appointed to terms of four years by the “They have been performing very, very BOCC. The council also includes elected strongly throughout the entire pandemic. officials from Tampa, Temple Terrace and It’s the best performing submarket in all of Plant City, as well as the BOCC. Meetings Hillsborough County,” said Corrada during are held quarterly, or as called by the coun- the meeting. cil chair, a position occupied by the BOCC People interested in serving on the TDC chair, which currently is Commissioner Les when there is an opportunity to do so need Miller. to be registered to vote in the county and Currently meetings are in a hybrid for- can access the required application and mat with a quorum of TDC officials meet- disclosure forms online at HCFLGov.net by ing in person and the public participating going to the Boards and Committees secvirtually, with the ability to comment on tion of the website. You can also call 276committee business. Meetings can be 2737 for more information.
Volume 20, Issue 4
TENNIS FOR FUN IN FISHHAWK IS HEADING BACK TO THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS
By Hayley Fedor
Each year, the program takes athletes to the Special Olympics. Preparation for the Special Olympics include teaching players the rules of the game, which starts with learning the most basic skills. Each skill learned gives points to players in the competition for things like forehands, backhands and serves; those points are then added together to determine the winners of ribbons. Tennis For Fun in FishHawk creates a community for special needs individuals, giving them a fun and encour“Some of our athletes have competaging environment to pursue tennis. ed at nationals and won,” said Tessa. For more than six years, the Tennis For The area competition for the SpeFun program in FishHawk has been pro- cial Olympics this year will be on Saturday, viding special needs individuals in the March 27 downtown at the HCC tennis community with a place to not only play center. tennis, but also to build friendships and be In response to the pandemic, Tennis encouraged. For Fun is taking the proper precautions Although the Tennis For Fun organiza- to keep athletes and volunteers safe by tion has locations throughout the coun- following the Special Olympics guidelines. try, the FishHawk program began in 2014 Participants must fill out a COVID-19 code when Jacob Fullerton saw a need in the of conduct, temperatures are checked and community for an encouraging and in- athletes are asked a set of questions to asclusive sports program. After graduating sess their health. from Newsome in 2016, Jacob passed the Currently, Tennis For Fun in FishHawk reigns to his brother, Alex Fullerton, who has about 10 athletes and 20 volunteers directed the program until graduating that help make the organization run from Newsome in 2020. Now their moth- smoothly. Often, volunteers are able to reer, Tessa Fullerton, continues their legacy ceive service hours through Tennis For Fun as the new director. that go towards Bright Futures education Tennis For Fun works with a variety of scholarships. athletes from children to adults that range “We need volunteers, we need new in their abilities. Volunteers with the orga- athletes. We would love to have new athnization are committed to teaching tennis letes,” said Tessa. one-on-one in a way that makes sense for Tennis For Fun clinics are held on Suneach athlete. days at 4 p.m. at the FishHawk Trails TenThe mission is “just to provide a fun, nis Courts at 17616 Old Oak Way in Lithia. social interaction for special needs, help To find out more information and how them grow [and] teach them tennis,” said to get involved with the organization, visit Tessa. tennisforfun.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2021
LOCAL GROUP BENEFITS FROM REI GRANT
YOU CAN HELP THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE TRACK RAINFALL By Brad Stager Keeping up with the day-to-day weather conditions in the Tampa Bay area can make life interesting, especially with the region’s rainy season just about to start. While there is not much any one person can do about the day’s forecast, people who are curious about the weather can participate in an organized effort to closely monitor how much rain the local area receives. The National Weather Service (NWS) Tampa Bay office in Ruskin is looking for volunteers who will measure rainfall amounts and report the information online to the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow network, or CoCoRaHS. Meteorologist Dustin Norman of NWS Tampa Bay in Ruskin is coordinating the recruitment of rainwatchers in the Tampa Bay area. He said this is a way for participants of all ages and backgrounds to experience a bit of the science behind the forecast in a relatively casual yet satisfying way as they “take measurements, report that data and see that data plotted.” Norman added that schools are also encouraged to become involved in the program and that there is a particular need for better documentation of rainfall in remote, less populated areas. The collected data can be analyzed and used by organizations such as the Southwest Florida Water Management District for things like project planning, according to Norman, who added that the information is also helpful to the NWS during major rain events like Hurricanes Irma and Eta, and can be more accurate than
Page 7
high-tech weather radar systems that Staff Report actually only provide rainfall estimates Friends of Alafia, Inc. was the state in 1996 by Cyand are subject to calibration errors. The recently awarded a $5,000 tec Industries. The former information may also be useful to sciengrant from REI Co-op to be phosphate mine was called used toward the cost of buildLonesome Mine, named ing a mountain bike skills area after the nearby commuwhere riders can improve nity of Fort Lonesome, a their skills of balance, riding site which was a frontier off drops and jumping. outpost of the U.S. Army Friends of Alafia is a during the Third Sem501(c)(3) nonprofit and inole War. The mine alCitizen Support Orgatered the landscape and nization—governed by created new landforms, Section 258.015, Florida such as several small Statutes—established lakes and steep grades, to protect, preserve popular with mountain Friends of Alafia, Inc. was recently awarded a $5,000 grant from REI and support Alafia River bikers who enjoy chalStandardized manual rain gauges are used by Co-op to be used toward the cost of rain spotters. State Park in providing relenging trails, as well as building a mountain bike skills area source-based recreational equestrians and hikers. tists researching phenomena like bluewhere riders can improve their skills of A forest bordering the opportunities to the pubsky rain, or serein, which is observed as balance, riding off drops and jumping. lic. Friends of Alafia raises South Prong of the Alarain falling from a cloudless sky. funds and provides volunteer services to fia River was protected from mining. This Rainfall measurements are made with improve patrons’ enjoyment of the park. prong of the river is a blackwater stream a standardized manual rain gauge that “In particular, we look out for the needs that flows through the park. The stream, can be purchased for about $30. According to Norman, everyone using the same of mountain bikers, equestrians and hik- bordered by red maple, swamp tupelo, and equipment is vital to ensuring consis- ers/runners using the park by supporting water hickory trees, is ideal for canoeing, tency in the data collected throughout construction and maintenance of the miles kayaking and fishing. The campground the network of rain spotters. Training is of trails within the park,” said LeRoy Den- features some equestrian sites for keepnison, president of Friends of Alafia. ing horses on-site, plus it has a barn and conducted online. Alafia River State Park, located at paddocks. You can learn more information by 14326 S. County Rd. 39 in Lithia, has apAs a member-owned co-op, REI actively visiting the CoCoRaHS webpage at proximately 25 miles of equestrian trails works with nonprofits across the country www.cocorahs.org, or call the NWS that can also be hiked or run on, 20 miles to steward and maintain local trails and Tampa Bay office at 645-2323. There of mountain bike trails covering all skill public lands and connect people to the are also informational videos on collectlevels (beginner, intermediate, advanced outdoors. To learn more about REI’s ining and measuring rain (as well as snow and expert) along with several miles of vestment, visit www.rei.com/h/philanthroand hail) at the CoCoRaHS HQ YouTube hiking-only trails. py. REI also opened a new store at 1152 channel. The park’s 7,714 acres were donated to Assembly Dr. in Tampa last month.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
WINTHROP OFFERS LIVE-WORK UNITS: BLOOMINGDALE NEW URBANISM AT ITS FINEST GRADUATE IS By Brian Bokor Having to work from store. This shift in PILOT COMMANDER home has been a subpopulation to more stantial change to many rural areas created AT SUN ‘N FUN EXPO of us over the past 12 the advent of the reStaff Report The 2021 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is excited to welcome home U.S. Air Force Major Joshua ‘Cabo’ Gunderson as he joins an exclusive airshow lineup as the F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team pilot and commander. Graduating from Bloomingdale High School in Valrico in 2004, Gunderson received an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy at age 17 and graduated in 2008. He dreamed of being in the seat of a fighter jet after seeing them perform at SUN ‘n FUN and other airshows he attended near his Central Florida hometown. Gunderson is looking forward to the homecoming, saying, “I am extremely excited about returning to my home state of Florida and flying at SUN ‘n FUN. I attended many SUN ‘n FUN events as a kid and loved seeing the military jets, so it’s an honor to pay that forward to future aviators.” The F22 Raptor Demonstration Team is based at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Virginia and consists of 19 elite members, including the pilot, safety officer, superintendent, team chief, multiple crew chiefs, avionics specialists, public affairs and aircrew flight equipment technicians. “We are very pleased to welcome Cabo and his team to Lakeland,” said Greg Gibson, airshow director and CMO for SUN ‘n FUN. “The Raptor is one of my personal favorites. The incredible maneuverability and its ability to demonstrate such agility and power while literally disappearing from the enemy in combat is truly amazing. I hope everyone will come join us to see what I mean when they see
U.S. Air Force Major Joshua ‘Cabo’ Gunderson is the F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team pilot and commander.
it perform in person.” Gunderson will perform in two presentations with the aircraft daily from Friday to Sunday, April 16, 17 and 18. First, he will give an incredible high-performance display of jaw-dropping speed, precision and maneuverability, followed by the patriotic Heritage Flight, where the Raptor will be joined by a vintage P-51 Mustang in a moving formation tribute flight to honor our nation’s aviation heroes from all eras. The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo takes place in Lakeland from Tuesday, April 13 to April 18. The F22 Raptor Demonstration Team will join the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and dozens of other performers in daily airshows, as well as hundreds of aircraft displays and outdoor exhibits in this historic return of one of the Bay area’s mainstays in family entertainment. For more information, visit www.FlySnF.org.
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months, but for owner/ residents of Winthrop’s live-work units, that is the one thing that has remained the same. If you were not aware, just about every building in the Winthrop Town Centre community with a second or third story contains an apartment unit above the business on the ground floor, hence the term ‘live-work,’ with several business owners of Winthrop enjoying the short work commute down the stairs. “These units are true hybrids where the ground level is designed to support a retail store or professional office with the upper floor used as a residence or as an investment property for the owner,” said John Sullivan, co-founder, president, developer and live-work unit resident of Winthrop. He and his wife, Kay, started Winthrop 20 years ago with the vision of creating a neighborhood sharing retail, residential, educational, professional and cultural entities in hope of bringing together a community where people can put their roots down. The 51 live-work units, 31 of which are either occupied or permitted but not yet constructed, are a prime example of the ‘new urbanist’ concept that the Sullivans wanted all along, a place where one could find virtually every necessity without needing to get into their car. Live-work units were the norm for the early part of 20th century America until our passion with the automobile moved many from cities to the suburbs. For example, George W. Jenkins, owner and founder of Publix Super Markets, started his chain of over 1,250 locations out of a single livework unit in Winter Haven over 90 years ago, living in the apartment above his first
gional malls and strip centers we see today, but also unfortunately contributed to what has been labeled an ‘urban sprawl’ by separating the places where people live from where they work and shop. In the early 80s, a ‘new urbanism’ movement took hold, with architects, planners and developers wanting to revisit the walkable, functional and sustainable communities of the past in order to restore a sense of unity among its residents and businesses. John made it clear that Winthrop was designed to be far more than your typical mixed-use project. “All of the (live-work) units are sold fee simple, meaning both upper and lower units are sold to the same entity, allowing the owner to make the final decision on whether to live in or rent out the apartment unit,” said John.” Two of the newest live-work unit owners will be Michelle Mosher of Southshore Insurance Professionals and James J. Pulkowski CPA, PA. They are both currently working out of the same Millennium Pkwy. location but will be relocating their businesses to Winthrop as soon as their unit has been completed, which should be by the end of April. Their plans are to work independently out of the same downstairs office while renting out the upstairs level as an income-producing property. Cindy Manchesi, vice president of sales and leasing (and another Winthrop livework resident), assists potential businesses and services with the design of the office space and apartment layout. Please contact John or Cindy at 681-3480 or visit winthropusa.com for additional information on the live-work units.
April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
LOCAL FAMILIES FILL NICHE WITH CABINET PAINTING CO.
By Kate Quesada
Have you been longing as the beauty and to give your kitchen or style that you’re bathroom a makeover? looking for.” If so, look no further Technicians rethan The Cabinet Paintmove the cabinet ing Company, a locally doors and drawer owned business which offaces from cusfers a multiphasic process tomers’ homes and where existing cabinets transport them to a are transformed from climate-controlled FishHawk residents Lauren and James worn and outdated and facility. In the shop given the fresh-from-the- Roy and Leah and Brian Shaffer recently and at the home, launched The Cabinet Painting Company. the cabinets refactory look and feel. FishHawk residents ceive comprehensive Lauren and James Roy preparation, priming and Leah and Brian Shafand finish applicafer recently launched the tion, leaving them business to offer a service that uses their with a factory-like feel and appearance. individual talents. “We are the experts in this process,” said Lauren and Leah are sisters whose father, Brian. “We are not painters who can do caba licensed painter for more than 40 years, inets. We are not a custom furniture comhas been running a painting business since pany that can paint cabinets. We believe the 1980s. Recently, the sisters found a way that cabinet painting is a specialty, and we to put their knowledge to use and include have devoted all of our time, efforts and retheir husbands. sources into becoming the best at it.” “Now we are three families working to James, broker and owner at 27North Recontinue the legacy,” said Brian. “James alty, has been in many houses during his 11 and Lauren handle the sales and design years in real estate. side of the business and me and Leah run “I’ve been fortunate enough to witness marketing and administration. It has been many different trends in real estate and a wonderful experience coming together, updating worn and outdated cabinets has supporting one another and bringing this become a hot one as of late,” he said. “It’s no amazing service to homeowners in our own secret that the kitchen and bathrooms are backyard.” incredibly important in terms of resale valThe company looks at cabinet painting as ue, so it just made sense to go into another so much more than a home improvement relationship-based business that provides project. immense value to its customers.” “Kitchens and bathrooms are the most The Cabinet Painting Company services expensive and important spaces in your all of Hillsborough County as well as certain home, so ensuring that everything in those parts of Western Polk and Northern Manarooms is high quality really matters,” said tee Counties. To learn more, find the busiBrian. “Our process provides meaningful ness on Facebook or visit cabinetpaintingco. and long-lasting value to your home as well com. Call 485-6075 for a free estimate.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS NAMED FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL QUEEN AND COURT By Kathy L. Collins Despite the difficulties of the last year due to the global pandemic, the Florida Strawberry Festival continued an age-old tradition of crowning the Florida Strawberry Festival queen and her court. McKenna Jordan was crowned the queen of the 86th Florida Strawberry Festival in its Queen’s Scholarship Pageant in January. Jordan, who is a senior at Strawberry Crest High School, was selected from a field of 29 contestants. In addition to the queen, her court consists of First Maid Avery Surrency, a senior at Durant High School; KellieAnne Marie Kirkland, a senior at Strawberry Crest High School; Brynne Murphy, a senior at Durant High School; and Kate Turner, a senior at Bloomingdale High School. Jordan said, “I wanted to participate in the Florida Strawberry Festival queen because I would be given the opportunity to serve my community, which is something I love doing. I would be able to meet new people, improve on my public speaking skills and I would also gain four new best friends.” Jordan added, “When my name was announced to be the 2021 Florida Strawberry Festival queen, I dropped to the floor. Tears flooded my eyes and I was so overwhelmed with joy because it was something that I have been working towards for seven months. All of the hard work had paid off. My dad rushed the stage and gave me a fist pump, which was the best feeling in the world because I knew my family was so proud of me.” Many young women who enter the contest have grown up attending the annual festival and seeing the queen. Surrency said, “I can remember being 5 years old and going to the pageant and wanting to take pictures with the queen and court
cial case highlighting Catherine Fletcher, the 1940 Strawberry Festival queen. The exhibit contained the queen’s gown and some period pieces, including a bread box, a milk jug and more. Passmore and White spoke about how rewarding it is to put the exhibit together each year, and how they stand back and listen to girls and families talk about their past experiences, including Kirkland, who said, “In 2015, Samantha Sun was queen. I performed at the Empty Bowls event, and I was super sick. I was critiquing the way I sounded. Samantha encouraged me to never stop singing. The way she engaged with me made me feel amazing. In that moment, I knew I wanted to participate.” The Queen’s Scholarship Pageant is sponsored by the Plant City Lions Club. Orientation is held in October and applications are due in November. For more information, please visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com. The 2021 Florida Strawberry Festival queen and court include five area high school seniors. McKenna Jordan, a senior at Strawberry Crest, was named queen, and her court includes First Maid Avery Surrency, a senior at Durant High School; KellieAnne Marie Kirkland, a senior at Strawberry Crest High School; Brynne Murphy, a senior at Durant High School; and Kate Turner, a senior at Bloomingdale High School.
every year. Something inside of me always wanted to participate and dreamt of one day being on the court.” Surrency added, “I hope that over the next year we have the chance to really get involved and work within our community. For me, this is an opportunity to give back and say ‘thank you’ for being the loving and caring community I have grown up in.” Kirkland, Murphy and Turner each spoke of similar reasons why they wanted to be a part of this annual tradition. All of them wanted to serve the community, inspire other young girls and make lasting mem-
ories. Each year, the queen and her court are honored with an exhibit at the Florida Strawberry Festival. For the last several years, Marsha Passmore and Dodie White, sisters and lifelong Plant City residents, have worked tirelessly to put together the beautiful exhibit. A queen and her court have been selected each year, with the exception of the years during World War II (1942-1947). This year’s exhibit featured a spe-
In addition to featuring the current queen and her gown, an exhibit at the Florida Strawberry Festival, put together by Marsha Passmore and Dodie White, featured the gown of Catherine Fletcher, the 1940 Florida Strawberry Festival queen.
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April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 11
PLAN A PERFECT PICNIC WITH POSH PIQUE-NIQUE By Kelly Wise Valdes During the year of sion. quarantine, people across “For a Valenthe map began looking tine’s Day present, for alternate ways to go we were contactout and have fun while ed by a wife that remaining socially diswanted to surtant. This became fertile prise her husband ground to the pop-up with a picnic at picnic business, which the beach,” said had already Zahler. “As they gained popwere approachularity in ing, we could California. overhear the For most husband admirof us, our ing the setup and picnics consaying ‘Aw, look sisted of how nice that is,’ an old blanket and the (still not knowing cooler from the garage. it was for him). But, this unique picnic Then the wife experience raises the whispered it was average picnic to an exhis Valentine’s traordinary affair. Day present from This love of picnics is Posh Pique-nique is a new family-run, pop-up, her. His reaction what lead Casey Zahler luxury, full-service picnic business that will make was priceless. He any occasion a special occasion. to launch her unique picwas so happy.” nic company in February. Zahler and her Posh Pique-nique services all of Southern husband loved going on picnics, and when Hillsborough County as well as Tampa, St. she saw the idea of pop-up picnics, she Petersburg, Lakeland and Plant City. One of immediately felt like that was something their most popular spots to set up a picnic she wanted to do. One phone call to her is along the waterfront at Vinoy Park in St. mother, Chrissy Simmons, and the moth- Petersburg. er-daughter duo successfully launched “We even can set up in your own backPosh Pique-nique, a luxury, full-service, yard,” said Zahler. “If there’s a location picnic experience company. that is not listed, we encourage our clients “Seeing our customers’ reactions when to reach out and we will see if we are able they arrive to their picnics is one of our fa- to accommodate them.” vorite parts,” said Zahler. “Bringing joy to There are several packages to chose others is such a rewarding experience.” from and prices begin at $150. For more Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, information or to book a magical picnic exproposal or even a date night, each picnic perience, visit www.poshpique-nique.com is set up with the customer in mind. The or follow Posh Pique-nique on Instagram packages can be customized for any occa- and Facebook.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FAT WILLIE’S FISH CAMP LEGACY TO CONTINUE By Libby Hopkins Keeping things in the riously the social and family and the community emotional needs of our has always been important community, a business to the owners of Fat Wilat heart is an economlie’s Fish Camp in Valrico. ic machine. “The family When Willie’s announced has examined the variback in December of 2020 ous economic needs in that it would be closing its order to reopen,” Peterdoors for good, the family son said. “Bill Robinson’s and the community was nephew, Chris Pate, and heartbroken. So many loclose family friend, Roy cal Brandon residents and The Robison family, owners of Fat Willie’s Mireles, are stepping Fish Camp in Valrico, and the Brandon beyond had fond memoup ready to carry the ries of eating at Willie’s. community are thrilled that the local sea- mantle of the Willie’s “2020 was a terrible year food restaurant will be reopening in late legacy. They are investspring of 2021. for so many,” said Wiling their money, time lie’s family member Amanda Peterson. “For and talents to rejuvenating the property, us, Bill (Willie) passed away suddenly from building and restaurant. Family and friends a stroke in January of 2020, and then the have donated sweat equity, working in the pandemic hit. We ended the year grieving building to clean and organize; however, the even more the loss of Bill’s legacy when the 106-year-old building needs serious repairs restaurant closed. Now that Chris and Roy in a few areas that we are struggling to achave stepped up with the support of family, complish economically.” dedicated friends, employees and customers, Peterson’s GoFundMe has raised more we have a sense of renewed hope and are than $3,000. “One specific area is the floorfeeling very excited about the future.” ing throughout the kitchen and dining area. The whole ‘Willie’s coming back to life’ It needs a lot of repair and replacement to process started with Peterson. She start- be functional and safe,” Peterson said. “We ed a GoFundMe page for Willie’s and the got a few estimates on flooring in the main response was astounding. “The community dining areas and the best one came in at has spoken loud and clear that Willie’s is not $4,800. So, the community donations are just the best seafood restaurant around, it’s making a big dent in that expense. Next, we a community center that offers a critical will be assessing the kitchen flooring, which gathering place, especially during these dif- will be a little more extensive. We are so ficult times,” Peterson said. “It is a piece of [excited] to see the Fat Willie’s legacy coneveryone’s history offering a sense of sta- tinue. We have always felt that it is a special bility that is so important in the unknown gathering place in our community.” present and future. Through discussions If you would like to donate to the Willie’s Goand social media posts, we have heard the FundMe page, you can visit its link at https:// heartfelt pleas to do something, anything, gf.me/v/c/yrjb/save-williesthe-place-for-seato stay open.” food. Willie’s hopes to reopen in late spring of While the Robinson family takes very se- 2021.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2021
Page 13
DAYLIGHT CONCEPTS, LLC REMAINS FOCUSED ON ITS CUSTOMERS
By Tatiana Ortiz
As the exclusive Ayala shared what authorized Solamakes Daylight Concepts, tube Premier DealLLC unique. er in the Greater “We ensure that our Tampa Bay area, in-home consultants can Daylight Concepts, offer a wide range of soluLLC provides its tions for all of our customcustomers with ers, taking into account incomparable sertheir needs and budgets vice, quality and to help them upgrade their price. Rene Ayala, homes,” Ayala said. managing director The quality at Daylight at Daylight ConConcepts, LLC begins with cepts, LLC, joined its factory-trained instalit more than four lation consultants. It also years ago. Ayaprovides a variety of Sola stated that he Rene Ayala, managing director at Daylight latube accessories and opwill continue with tions, along with offering Concepts, LLC. the company’s free estimates. In regards start and journey to roofing, it performs free through Southwest roof inspections during the Florida. time of installation. DayDaylight Conlight Concepts, LLC has cepts, LLC opened partnered with some of the in mid-2007 when a best professionals in the group of young peostate to maintain diverse ple decided to commit to brightening oth- training in areas such as customer service, ers’ lives by bringing natural light to their safety and much more. homes. Besides serving the Greater Tamp Ayala mentioned that the future looks Bay area, it also provides service to St. Pe- bright since Florida is a great place for tutersburg, Lakeland, Clearwater, Sarasota bular skylights or Solatube Daylight Sysand more. In addition, Daylight Concepts, tems. LLC is also a Florida state-certified roof“Overall, with more than 14 years of exing contractor with 18 years of experience perience, we are here to help,” Ayala said. in sales and installation of Solatube Day- “Give us a call and let us brighten your lighting Systems, roofing, solar attic fans day,” he added. and skylights. More than 30 years ago, SoFor more information or to schedule a latube created the tubular skylights con- free consultation, visit https://daylightcepts. With that in mind, it continues to concepts.com. It is located at 6710 Benimprove its products and provide the best jamin Rd., Ste. 100 in Tampa. Call 886experience for its customers. 5500.
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Page 14
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Missy’s Ink Empowers Women By Libby Hopkins When a woman feels Duncan offers many good, she can take on services at Missy’s Ink. the world. Missy DunFrom microblading to can, owner of Missy’s pink areola pigmentaInk in Valrico, makes tion, her goal is to make sure every woman who women feel beautiful. “I receives one of her love to create beautibeauty services leaves ful permanent makeup feeling beautiful and for my clients,” Duncan empowered. “Missy’s said. “There’s nothing Ink just celebrated better than looking your four years best, any time of the of being in day. Life may not always business,” be perfect, but your Duncan said. makeup can be.” “I feel so Duncan is always blessed and learning new beauty Missy Duncan, owner of Missy’ s Ink in Valrico, makes sure excited for the future. services that she can offer After being in the same every woman who receives one of her to her clients as well. “The beauty services leaves feeling beautiful office for more than 10 most current class that I and empowered. years, it was time for a recently took was for machange. I’m moving to the Valrico area, chine strokes,” Duncan said. “Machine and it’s such an exciting new adventure.” strokes is a process of using my machine Duncan is a mom of two adult children for the hair stroke technique instead of a and has been married for 29 years to her microblade. This method makes the prohusband, who has been her sweetheart cess more comfortable as well as helps since she met him when she was 14 years with color retention.” old. “We’re enjoying the empty nest life Duncan’s goal for the future is to contogether and loving it,” Duncan said. tinue to learn, grow and gain more confiAfter having a successful photography dence. “Learning creates knowledge and business for 20 years, Duncan decided knowledge creates confidence,” Duncan she needed a change in life. “I decided said. “Continuing to take classes in perthat, although God had blessed me so manent makeup is something that I do much, I was ready for a change,” Duncan often. I believe continuing to learn more said. “I took a leap of faith and set out for is a priority in this business.” a new beginning with permanent makeup. To learn more about the services ofIt’s been the best career I could’ve ever fered at Missy’s Ink, visit www.missysink. hoped for. It allows me to show my cre- com or call 659-0648. The new location ativity and gives me such satisfaction of of Missy’s Ink is at 3117 Lithia Pinecrest seeing a woman renew her self-esteem.” Rd. in Valrico.
Volume 20, Issue 4
NEW LOCALLY-OWNED FIELDS & TABLE GROCERY STORE COMES TO RIVERVIEW By Michelle Caceres Riverview “Every is about to family get a oneshould stop grocery have the option unlike opporany other. tunity Fields & Tato have ble, a new healthy concept groand decery market licious The locally owned Fields & Table grocery market will be opening in located at food opRiverview in April. 11531 Balm tions.” Riverview In adRd., is opening this dition to the prospring. duce section, the Owned by local store will feature residents Brentt a meat and seaand Mirna Skinner, food department the 8,000-square(complete with foot indoor market an experienced and 2,000-squarebutcher), bakfoot outdoor retail space has scrapped ery and floral department. Other locally the traditional grocery store layout with sourced edibles will also be on display, inits vast center aisles and shelves of neat- cluding nuts and honey. The store will also ly stacked processed foods (you won’t feature a staffed salsa and guacamole bar find 12-packs of your favorite colas here) for customers to customize these delicious in favor of providing quality, fresh, locally sides and take home with them. sourced and affordable produce, meats, Mirna said store employees will be dairy and baked goods. knowledgeable and able to assist customThe largest footprint in their store will ers throughout their shopping experience. be its produce department, full of fresh “Our market will be a place customers fruits and vegetables. Florida’s subtropical come to learn about the food they’re going temperatures, accompanied by the warm to be putting into their bodies,” said Mirna. and rainy seasons, make it an ideal place “We can tell them where it’s coming from.” to grow a number of fruits and vegetables, Fields & Table will be open Monday to including sweet corn, cucumbers, toma- Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday, 10 toes, watermelons, several kinds of beans, a.m.-6 p.m. It will also feature an e-comsweet potatoes, peppers, okra, lettuce, merce element where customers can place carrots, citrus, guavas, mangoes, papayas their orders online and pick up at the store. and more. To learn more about Fields & Table, go to “We bring food right from the fields to www.fieldsandtable.com or visit its Faceour store to your table,” said Mirna, whose book page at www.facebook.com/Fieldbackground is in agricultural distribution. sandTable.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2021
Page 15
NEWSOME BOYS SOCCER TEAM HAS SCHOOL-RECORD 20-WIN SEASON
NEWSOME LADY WOLVES SOCCER WINS DISTRICT AND CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP IN GREAT SEASON
By Nick Nahas
By Nick Nahas
The Newsome boys soccer team accomplished a rare feat: winning a school-record 20 games in a season. The Wolves won 20 out of their 23 games overall, claiming their third district championship in the last four years and winning the Western Conference Championship as well. They lost to eventual state finalist Plant in a very close 2-1 game in the regional semifinals. Senior team captain and goalThe Wolves celebrate after their third tender Patton Trimborn broke district championship win in four years. Newsome’s record for shutouts in a senior captain Tommy Holdseason with 12. “I am very proud of the work we all put en, who stepped in when in to get that milestone,” said Trimborn. three-year starter Matt “It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears to Almond went down with a broken ankle achieve this. We all put in the work to be during the second day of practice. Holden, the best team in Newsome soccer history.” who had never played defense before, told Head Coach Allen Ware had his work his coaches that he would do whatever he cut out for him this season, as he had to needed to do for his team to succeed. He replace eight starters from last year’s filled the void and was a key element for team. This year’s group was led by seven Newsome. Junior Joseph Adderley led the seniors. Ware said that the players that team in scoring with 22 goals. “The boys didn’t have ‘quit’ in them, had to step up in starting roles had a lot of and they just fought from day one knowgrit and a ‘never die’ attitude. ing that, for the most part, we were a Senior Mohammed Hijaz had a pivotal brand-new team after losing the amount role in his first season for the Wolves afof seniors we lost the previous year,” said ter transferring late to the school last year Ware. “Every time they stepped out on and just missing out on the 2020 season. the field, their confidence grew game-byHijaz, who moved back to Florida after game. Up until the very last whistle in the living in his home country of Jordan for a last game, we always felt with this group couple years, made the All-State team and that we were in every game and could win scored 12 goals this season for Newsome. every game.” “What makes me most proud is knowing The Wolves continue to have high exeverybody looked up to me and saw me pectations after a string of success. as a leader,” said Hijaz. “Seeing everybody “What I’ll take most from this season is come together this season and performing all the memories from my teammates and so well made me so proud.” the fans,” said Hijaz. Another key player for the Wolves was
were very disciplined, gritty and tough, not letting any of the outside stuff affect us,” said Trimborn. “We stayed positive, and if someone was out, we knew that someone else would take their place. It taught us how to be resilient.” The Lady Wolves have several players that will move on to the next level and play in college, including SiThe Lady Wolves celebrate after winning their erra Hudson (Eckerd College), Sydni Dennis (University of Tampa) and Avsecond straight district championship. ery Jericho (Davidson College). The Newsome Lady Wolves soc“It wasn’t just a one-man show,” cer team was hungry for success said Trimborn. “You couldn’t look at our this season, winning their second stats and just identify one player to stop. district championship in a row as well We had threats, power and talent all over as a Western Conference Championship, the pitch.” beating state semi-finalist Plant on penalThe Lady Wolves will lose 10 seniors, ty kicks. The Lady Wolves finished 16-3-1 but the team expects to remain competioverall, losing 2-0 to Palm Harbor Univer- tive next season with 15 returning players sity High School in the regional quarter- that will hone their skills with their club finals. teams in the off-season. “The sisterhood we created is definitely “The girls’ goals would be to become something that made this team success- state champions,” said Trimborn. “For me, ful,” said senior captain Sydni Dennis. “We it’s developing a group of united athletes had a motto at the beginning of the year that believe in each other and fight for and that was, ‘We will work hard, per- each other and take whatever skills they severe, stay united and uphold the Lady learn in sports and can apply them later Wolves’ tradition.’” on in life.” Second-year Head Coach Tina TrimboThis was a final season to remember rn said that depth played a key role in the for senior captain and team leader Saylor team’s success this year with a revolving Webster. door of lineup combinations due to injuries “From this season I will take away so and players having to quarantine at differ- many new sisters, so many memories and ent points during the season because of so much pride to have been a part of such COVID-19. All 25 players on the roster got an amazing team,” said Webster. “This to play, and 20 recorded goals, giving the team is full of some of the most talentlineup great balance. The group was pri- ed and brilliant girls I have ever met. It marily led by 10 seniors. makes me proud being able to know every “Whatever was put in front of us, we single of one them.”
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
DIETRICH & KELSO ORTHODONTICS OFFER PREMIUM PATIENT CARE TO THE COMMUNITY
By Hayley Fedor
office manager at Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics. The 28 staff members that make up Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics provide quality customer service for each guest and play an important role in facilitating the caring and welcoming experience that the company maintains. “I like to brag that our foundation is built more on trust and teamwork and the comThe smiling staff of Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, dedicated to mitment to carrying ourselves with the utmost integrity and high-quality customer service. compassion,” said Chandler. When it comes to orthodontics, Dietrich At Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics, many & Kelso Orthodontics offers quality care with staff that put building trustworthy different types of insurances are accepted relationships with patients first. The com- and flexible payment options are available pany has established its reputation for pro- in order to best accommodate patients. Part of the company’s commitment to fessionalism over the last 43 years, starting in the Polk County area and expanding quality is reflected in its approach to treatto serving the Hillsborough County com- ments which include utilizing the newest technologies and techniques in the field of munity more recently. The original practice was started by Dr. orthodontics. In addition, Dietrich & Kelso Keith Hillard, who worked in the office un- continues to grow and expand as the detil his retirement in 2016. In 2012, Dr. An- sire to bring quality care to more patients drew Dietrich took ownership of the prac- and families increases. “Instead of just doing orthodontics, we tice, and later in 2017, Dr. Andrew Kelso build a relationship with our patients,” said became part owner with Dr. Dietrich. Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics special- Chandler. Dietrich & Kelso Orthodontics accomizes in braces and Invisalign treatment for children and adults and the dedicated modates patients Monday-Friday at all six doctors with the company work to create of its locations; hours of operation vary depersonalized plans with each individual pa- pending on the office. There are two locatient. The primary goal is for patients to tions in Hillsborough County, the Brandon feel confident and informed about their location at 401 S. Parsons Ave., Unit A and treatments throughout the entire process. the Riverview at 11906 Boyette Rd. To learn more about Dietrich & Kelso “We take pride in providing the best orthodontic care with a focus on exceptional Orthodontics and to find contact informapatient experiences,” said Ashley Chandler, tion, visit dkosmiles.com.
Volume 20, Issue 4
April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 17
VALRICO ACADEMY PTSO LIBRAY HOSTS ONLINE TRIVIA, LAUNCHES SHOE DRIVE FUNDRAISERBy Samantha Trezevant THEATRE & MORE FOR APRIL By Faith Miller COVID-19 has able to help affected everyfeed, clothe one on many and house different levels. families in For students at need. The Valrico Acadef u n d ra i s e r s my, many of their that are asannual events sociated with have been put on Fu n d s 2 O rg s hold for the year, help many and the parents families—so searched for a many that one Some students from Valrico Academy sitting on the shoes creative way to budding enthat have been donated. fund these activtrepreneur in ities. The result is the school’s PTSO collect- Haiti even earned enough to send her son ing shoes for an organization that will help to law school. fund desired activities for the students. The PTSO had acquired almost half of its On March 10, Valrico Academy had a goal before the event. As of March 9, almost ‘Stuff the Trunk’ shoe drive. At the event, half of the school’s goal was reached, which people from all over the community chipped was 40 bags that equaled 1,000 pairs of in to donate gently worn shoes. There were shoes. a total of nine bags donated, which was If you would like to help the cause, there equivalent to 225 pairs of shoes. In other are many locations where you can donate words, the event was a success. your gently worn shoes. These are Valrico The charter school’s PTSO acquired al- Academy, AR Workshop in Brandon, Southmost half of its goal before the event. The Shore Orthodontics in Gibsonton, The Vilgoal is to get to 100 bags which is equiva- lage Early Learning Center in Brandon, Hess lent to 2,500 shoes, in a 60-day period. Orthodontics (all three locations), Bullfrog The Valrico Academy PTSO is partnering Creek Brewing Co. in Valrico and L Space with Funds2Orgs, which will issue a check Studio in Brandon. based on the total weight of the pairs of Each of these locations is collecting until gently worn, used and new shoes collected. Friday, April 9. All donated shoes will then be redistribut“We are excited about our shoe drive,” ed throughout the Funds2Orgs network of said Jennifer Middleton, hospitality coormicro-enterprise (small business) partners. dinator of the PTSO. “We know that most Funds2Orgs works with micro-entrepre- people have extra shoes in their closets they neurs in helping them create, maintain and would like to donate to us. By doing so, we grow small businesses in developing coun- raise money for future events, and we have tries where economic opportunities and the chance to help families in developing najobs are limited. tions who need economic opportunities. It’s In the past, this organization has been a win-win for everyone.”
For the month of April, the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC) is hosting a range of online events for kids and families. On Friday, April 9, the HCPLC is offering an online trivia night for both teens and adults. The event will feature questions on pop culture, movies and books. It is planned to be the ending for HCPLC’s National Library Week events, which runs from Monday to Wednesday, April 5-7. People can enter with a team or by themselves, with prizes being offered to the victors. This activity is recommended to teens and adults and will be happening from 6:30-7:15 p.m. Throughout the course of the month, the libraries will be giving away free books through certain events, allowing participants the opportunity to be eligible to win when they sign up for events. This is done by including one’s address in registrations on qualifying events. On Friday, April 23, HCPLC will be hosting its monthly ‘One Book, One Night,’ this week being Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson. According to the official HCPLC site where registration takes place, the first chapter will be read out loud and offering people to listen in either English, Spanish or French. There will also be a live Q&A session for attendants. This event runs from 6:30-7:15 p.m. and is rec-
ommended for all ages—children, teens and adults. On Thursday, April 29 from 9:30-10:15 a.m., the Creative Arts Theatre Company, the City of Tampa’s professional theater company for young audiences, will be presenting The Frog Princess. According to the HCPLC registration website, this play is a modern take on the classic tale written by the Brothers Grimm, authors who wrote the original stories for many of today’s fairy tales, and it is recommended for ages 4 to 8. The play follows a young princess who is turned from frog to human by a strange, mysterious and magical golden ball. The story combines songs and puppetry to work together in telling the tale of this frog princess and the struggles she faces in her attempts to reverse the spell in time for the party at the frog castle. For more information on these and various other events, visit the HCPLC event homepage for a calendar and full list for the upcoming months. Registration is also available through https://hcplc.evanced. info/signup/calendar.
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Page 18
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
WEEKI WACHEE RIVER EDUCATION CAMPAIGN – YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED By Randy Smith
By Nitish S. Rele
nitishrele@gmail.com
LAVISH 2021 INFINITI QX80 CAN GO ON AND OFF-ROAD THE RIDE: A fourdoor, up-to-eight-passenger (our trim seated seven), full-size 2021 Infiniti QX80 4WD. DOWN THE ROAD: Based on a fully boxed all-steel frame, the power in the Infiniti is abundant to propel the 5,706-pound-plus vehicle. The luxurious ride is quiet and graceful whether you are on the highway or testing the Infiniti’s off-road talent. TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 5.6-liter V8 DOHC engine pumps out 400 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 413 pounds-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. It is mated to a seven-speed auto transmission, but our all-wheel-drive version also was equipped with an auto-leveling air suspension to smoothen the bumps while towing a boat or a small trailer. Tow capacity? An astonishing 8,500 pounds. The four-wheel drive system can be driven in auto, 2WD, 4Hi or 4Lo modes, depending on road and weather conditions. Up front and in the rear is an independent double wishbone suspension with stabilizer bars. The power-assisted, rack-and-pinion steering is accurate and direct. Stopping power is left up to the massive 13.8-inch ventilated disc rotors. The SUV sits on enormous 22inch forged dark aluminum-alloy wheels. LOOK & FEEL: We test-drove the Premium Select model, which is packed with tech and luxury goodies. This means dark chrome and black decked up the double-arch grille,
fender vents, door mirror caps and rear tailgate strip. The side step rails will come in handy for the little tykes to ingress and egress from the vehicle. Space is at a premium in the full-size QX80 with storage areas in the center console, overhead console and doors. Want cargo space to haul plywood from the local home improvement store? Then fold flat the third row seat for 49.6 cubic feet of space. Or press a button and watch the 60/40 third row seat fold flat to open up 95.1 cubic feet of space (that’s with both second and third row seats down). The InTouch infotainment system, which comes with 8-inch dual touch screens atop each other, is convenient to use. The wood trim on the doors and the dashboard above the glove box conveys a tasteful appearance. Also standard are the tri-zone auto AC, 10-way power and eight-way front passenger heated/cooled seats, power-fold outside mirrors, roof rails and power-slide/tilt moonroof and rear liftgate. OUT THE DOOR: Based at $78,450 (with options totaling $80,185), plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges. BY THE NUMBERS: Wheelbase: 121.1 inches; length: 210.2 inches; width: 79.9 inches; height: 75.8 inches; fuel capacity: 26 gallons; city: 13 mpg; highway: 19 mpg; website: www.infinitiusa.com.
Q: Why was a best management study conducted of practices to help rethe Weeki Wachee duce their environmenRiver? tal impact on the river: A: The ecologically 1. Stay in the vessel based study was conwhen possible. ducted to evaluate 2. If you have to the effects of recleave the vessel, tie off reational use on the in shallow waters. natural systems of 3. Avoid docking on the river, as its growriverbanks. ing popularity and in4. Don’t trample vegcreased visitor traffic etation or kick up silt. have led to concerns 5. Avoid climbing on about potential degbanks and walking on radation of the river sand point bars. and its ecosystems. 6. Don’t climb trees Q: What did the or use rope swings. study find? 7. Don’t throw out A: The study found litter or leave anything Randy Smith is the Natural Systems direct links between behind. & Restoration Bureau chief at the recreational use and Southwest Florida Water Management Q: Do these tips apply environmental damto all river and spring District. age. For example, visitors who leave systems? their kayaks, canoes and boats may tramA: While each system may have its own ple vegetation and erode riverbanks and rules and regulations to follow, these are sand point bars. Also, those who climb or good tips to remember no matter where jump/swing from trees not only damage you visit. the trees, but the waves created from the Q: What else is being done to help projumps produce additional erosive forces tect the Weeki Wachee River? on the banks. A: Several local and state agencies have Q: Should the number of visitors be joined together to develop strategies to limited? help protect the Weeki Wachee River. A: Whether it’s one person or 100, These strategies will likely be a combinathese visitor impacts on the Weeki Wa- tion of education, regulation, restoration chee River can leave lasting environmen- and enforcement. tal damage. The study showed that manQ: Where can I get more information aging the types of activities on the river is about protecting the Weeki Wachee Rivjust as important, if not more important, er? as setting a limit. A: Visit WaterMatters.org/ HYPERQ: What can visitors do to help protect LINK “https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/ the Weeki Wachee River? protecting-the-weeki-wachee-river”ProA: We encourage people to follow these tectWeeki.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2021
Page 19
BRANDON SERVICE LEAGUE TO HOST SPORTING CLAYS SHOOT & DINNER
By Kathy L. Collins
GFWC Brandon Service League, said, “We decided to hold this event because we were looking for an outdoor venue where we could safely gather. This is very different from any event we have held. We are excited to introduce Brandon Service League to a new group of peoThe GFWC Brandon Service League will hold its first-ever Spring ple who may not have Sporting Clays Fundraiser at FishHawk Sporting Clays in Lithia. heard of us.” The GFWC Brandon Service League Swanson added, “We is pleased to announce that it will host are approaching our 61st year of service its first event since the country and in the Brandon area. Although we have events were shut down due to the global been relatively quiet for the past year, pandemic. The GFWC Brandon Service we have been working hard to support League will host its first-ever Spring the community in small ways. This inSporting Clays Fundraiser Shoot and cludes making donations to area food Dinner. banks and pet shelters, being involved in The event will be held on Saturday, Sincerely Santa and making masks.” April 10 at FishHawk Sporting Clays on Funds raised at the Spring Shooting 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia. Clays Fundraiser will help support the Registration begins at 1 p.m., the shoot GFWC Brandon Service League’s scholstarts at 2 p.m., dinner and entertain- arship fund; the club’s community acment will held at 4 p.m. and awards will tivities, including the Very Special Arts be given at 5 p.m. Festival; and community donations to The cost to participate is $400 for a nonprofits. team of four, and individual shooters are “This will be a great event whether you $125. The fee includes sporting clays, are an expert marksman or a beginning ammunition and dinner. You can bring shooter. Everyone can look forward to your own 12 or 20-gauge shotgun or rent a fun-filled afternoon that includes dinone for $25. Team golf carts are $25. Eye ner, entertainment and trophies. This is and ear protection are required and are a great way to show off your support for available for rent or purchase on-site. Brandon Service League or just show off There are trophies for best team, best your shooting skills,” said Swanson. shot, most improved and “At least you For more information on this event looked good tryin’!” The GFWC Brandon or to become a member, please contact Service League will also have opportuni- Swanson at bradleep6@gmail.com or ty baskets and 50/50 available. 858-254-8499, or visit www.gfwcbranBradlee Swanson, co-president of the donserviceleague.org.
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By Brian Bokor, Founder www.facebook.com/bokorscorner struction on the south side of SR 60 across from Walmart Supercenter and next to Lowes at Mt. Carmel Rd. Dollar General will be building two stores in the area, with a Riverview location on Balm Riverview Rd. north of Rhodine Rd. and a Plant City store at E. Keysville and SR Welcome to your April update of new 39 near Alderman’s developments in the Greater Brandon/Riv- Ford Park. Andy’s Ice Cream will be replacerview area. Please check the respective ing BubbaQue’s in one of the parcels located Facebook pages or websites for the most near the Belmont Publix. recent information. Six retail and office plazas are in the The Motor Enclave will break ground works for Gibsonton, FishHawk and Rivernorthwest of the I-75/I-4 interchange, view. Symmes Rd. will see two plazas, with bringing Tampa an ‘Experimental Automo- one at the northeast corner of U.S. 41 and tive Community’ to include 300-plus Private Symmes Rd. showing plans for a fueling Garages, a Performance Circuit and an off- station, car wash and retail store as well as road track, as well as a 35,000-square-foot another at the northwest corner of U.S. 301 corporate events center. Look for an Osprey and Symmes Rd., including two buildings Observer feature story on this soon. with multiple tenants. The southeast corner Southeast County School capacity is a of U.S. 301 and Bloomingdale Ridge Dr. will hot topic with some relief on the way as see an executive park totaling four buildings construction plans were submitted for the with 22 tenants. A 2-story office/medical Waterset PK-8 located on Paseo Al Mar building has been proposed for Boyette Rd. Blvd. west of the I-75 interchange, adja- east of the post office, with FishHawk West cent to the new flyover from U.S. 41 to U.S. seeing growth on the southeast corner of 301. Sun City Center will see a freestand- FishHawk Blvd. and Circa FishHawk Blvd. ing emergency room (FSER) located north with the construction of two buildings tenof the Walmart Supercenter at Cape Stone tatively to include a restaurant, dry cleaner Ave. and U.S. 301. and dentist. Finally, the northwest corner of HGreg.com brings online car shop- Big Bend Rd. and Kings Lake Rd. has plans ping, as well as 90 jobs, to Brandon at its for two retail and three offices buildings 42,000-square-foot building under con- over the 2.5-acre project.
Page 20
FH Sunday Market Returns, Leon Brockmeier Golf Tourny & More ... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
FishHawk Ranch Sunday Market Returns
After an almost yearlong hiatus due to the pandemic, the Community Development District is pleased to announce the return of the Sunday market to FishHawk Ranch on April 18 and May 16 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. It will be held at a new location, Cross Park (across from Park Square). Although the number of vendors will be limited, rest assured, there will be a wide variety of local vendors to provide patrons with a vibrant outdoor shopping experience. From fresh local produce to natural bath and body products, pet products, jewelry and more, there is bound to be something for everyone. Bring your family, meet up with friends, get out in the fresh air and shop for unique special items not offered in chain stores. To ensure the safety of those in attendance, COVID-19 and social distancing protocols will be in place. For more information and vendor opportunities, contact Susan Parvin at 657-6629.
Leon Brockmeier Memorial Golf Tournament In April
The Leon Brockmeier Memorial Golf Tournament will be held on Sunday, April 25 at the Summerfield Crossings Golf Club in Riverview. The entrance fee is $90 per player and includes a cart, 18 holes of golf, lunch, dinner and beer on the course. On-site registration and sign-up starts at 11:30 a.m., range balls goes on until 12:30 p.m. and a shotgun start begins at 1 p.m. Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels; details can be found on the Operation Lotus Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/operationlotus. Register to play or make a payment using Operation Lotus’ Venmo @operationlotus, PayPal for operationlotusfl@ gmail.com or mail a check to P.O. Box 3056 Riverview, FL 33568.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition Since then, it has become a mission for this piece to be performed with both the current band students as well as the 2020 Barrington band alumni. “Affirmation (Peace, Love and Music)” is dedicated to the Barrington Band students of Lithia and its director, David Triplett-Rosa. This performance will also be livestreamed on Zoom, meeting ID 861 8212 0232, passcode BMS2021.
DAY TRIPS: LAKELAND FOOD HALL By Faith Miller
Annual St. Anne’s Golf Tournament
St. Anne’s Catholic Church is building its community outreach funds with its annual golf tournament. The event is being held on Saturday, April 10, at Summerfield Crossings Golf Club in Riverview. The entrance fee is $75 per player and includes prizes for Hole-in-One, Greatest Putt, Longest Drive, Most Accurate Drive, Closest to the Pin and an awards luncheon with great food following the tournament at the golf club. All proceeds benefit St. Anne Catholic Church’s community and outreach programs, including the weekly food pantry and Catholic Charities Mobile Medical Bus ministering to the needs of rural poor in Southern Hillsborough County.
Wreath Donation To Liberty Manor
Some people have a talent and enjoy making others happy by sharing that talent, and Mamie Robinson, who made and delivered seven beautiful wreaths in an all-American motif to the residents at Liberty Manor for Veterans, is just that kind of person. The mission of Liberty Manor for Veterans is to promote the developmental and social needs of disabled and honorably discharged veterans who have fallen victim to homelessness. Anyone interested in assisting in this initiative can contact Connie Lindsay on 900-9422 or visit its website at www.libertymanor.org for more information.
New Baby Giraffe At Busch Gardens
Guests at Busch Gardens can now ‘spot’ a new face on the park’s Serengeti plain. Born earlier this year, Cedora, a twomonth-old female giraffe calf, just made her debut on the park’s 65-acre, multispecies habitat. After spending some time bonding with her mother, Cedora is becoming familiar with the rest of the Busch Gardens giraffe herd. As you visit the park, you can get a special look at the giraffes on board the Serengeti Express Train or by booking a Serengeti Safari, which includes the opportunity to handfeed one of the amazing animals.
Located near the center of Florida is the city of Lakeland, and according to its official government website, the city was founded on January 1, 1885 by a man named Abraham Munn, who purchased 80 acres of land in 1882 and platted the town in 1884. This land would eventually become the city’s downtown district. It is now home to several small businesses and restaurants, providing multiple fun opportunities for its residents. The Joinery Food Hall This “modern food hall” is located on 640 E. Main St. in Downtown Lakeland along the bank of Lake Mirror. It is open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. It is home to seven food vendors, offering a selection of different cuisines and drinks, along with its bar and Bloom Shakalaka, which offers a selection of flower services and gifts. Its food vendors range in variety, from their menu items to the culture of the food they offer. An example of this is Sbu, located toward the middle of the food hall. This vendor features a selection of ramen, steamed buns (often referred to as ‘Bao’) and many other delights. Another vendor located within the food hall is Gallito Taqueria, which is known for its puffy tacos and quesadillas. Each vendor offers its own array of items, making every trip special in its own way. HTeaO Owned by Susan and David Sullivan, HTeaO is located on 3920 Florida Ave S., next to Fuzzy’s Tacos. This store focuses on the beverage within its name, tea. It offers a wide selection of different flavors of tea, allowing its customers to mix and match to fit their taste buds. When you walk inside, you are greeted with a large variety of different dispensers, each featuring their own flavor and all coming in sweet and unsweet. Guests are offered small cups so that they can taste test the different flavors, along with having the opportunity to put in add-ons, like fruit, in their drinks. Customers are also allowed to buy their favor-
New Date And Location For Run- Free Digital Florida Orchestra ning Of The Bulls 5K Performance The Running of the Bulls 5K has been moved to a new date and location. The event will now be held on Sunday, May 23 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. The 5K race starts at 8 a.m. All proceeds will benefit the Bloomingdale High School Band. Find updates about the event on its Facebook page @bloomingdalebulls5k and register for the event at www.fitniche.com/events.
Barrington Middle School Band Concert
The Barrington Bolts Band Concert Premiere of “Affirmation (Peace, Love and Music)” by Randall Standridge will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 8 at Riverview High School. This piece was originally supposed to premiere in the spring of 2020, but COVID-19 postponed this musical experience for the students.
Recently, The Florida Orchestra took audiences on a special journey with stunning, beautiful music meant to soothe away 12 months of anxiety while lifting your spirits. Now you can feel those precious moments of serenity anytime, as the concert is available on demand for free at https://floridaorchestra.org/. Give yourself the musical space to pause and reflect with Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings, one of the most recognizable pieces in the world. Plus, Ahmed Alabaca’s Across the Calm Waters of Heaven – A Piece for Peace; Anton Bruckner’s Christus factus est, performed by low brass in the dark; Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Variations on a Theme by Thomas Tallis; Tomaso Albinoni’s Oboe Concerto No. 2, Op. 9, featuring soloist Mitchell Kuhn; On the Nature of Daylight by Max Richter; as well as a sublime encore with violin and harp.
Volume 20, Issue 4
Mon-Fri 9 am-6 pm • Sat 9am-4pm • Sun-Closed
ite flavors of tea in larger sizes, including half-gallons and gallons. HTeaO’s hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-8:05 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m.-8:05 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-8:05 p.m.. It also has happy hours from 2-4 p.m., where its drinks are half-price. Black & Brew Black & Brew coffeehouse has two locations within the Lakeland area. The first is in the heart of Downtown Lakeland on 205 E. Main St., right outside Munn Park. The second, satellite location is conjoined with the Lakeland library and features a large outdoor patio. Both give a smalltown coffeehouse feel with cozy, welcoming interiors and large selections of food and drinks. The main location has lunch and dinner menus, ranging from salads to sandwiches, along with a variety of desserts. Both offer breakfast options and a large drink menu. Lakeland Murals Throughout Lakeland’s historic downtown district, murals of different shapes, colors and sizes can be found for locals and tourists to enjoy. One mural can be found on S. Tennessee Ave., located on one of the outside walls of Gaines Jewelers. This mural features bright greens, blues and pinks that make up large flowers and tobacco leaves along the wall. The painting is titled Tobacco Leaf and was painted by Gillian Fazio. Scout & Tag Small business Scout & Tag features a large assortment of home decor and small gift items, along with clothing and jewelry items. It is located on 244 N. Kentucky Ave. within an old Lakeland theater, featuring various rooms that each have their own theme. These themes include jewelry items, gardening, home decor, bath and body, children, small gifts, clothing and more. It is owned by Nikki Hunt and was founded in 2013. Lakeland is a historic town full of lots of possibilities of things for friends and families to do together. For more, visit http:// www.lakelandgov.net/fun/.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2021
Page 21
THE STEIN & VINE OPENS BIN + BOARD—CASUAL DINING AT ITS FINEST
By Brian Bokor
The Stein & Vine has The newly opened carved out a niche in the Bin + Board is now foBrandon/Riverview dincusing on growing its ing scene by offering not wine-centric concept. only a revolving menu Lacey said that feaunlike any other where tures coming soon will the quality and consisinclude “a wine club tency of the dishes are where members will always at the forefront, receive hand-selected but also an unrivaled bottles monthly along craft beer selection. with invitations to exFounded and owned by clusive events.” Also, Ty and Lacey Mathis, the “vendors will be invited couple knew they wantto host tastings where ed to expand on their you will be able to learn brand while at the same more about their wine time offer their guests Ty and Lacey Mathis, owners of Bran- and which foods pair something different, don-favorite Stein and Vine, recently best.” To-go charcuterie opened a new concept, Bin + Board, in and in late 2020, they selections will be availthe same plaza. opened Bin + Board. able, wherein you’ll be Both can be found in able to pick up plates Kings Row Shopping Cenof your favorite foods and ter on the southwest cordrinks and enjoy the Bin + ner Bloomingdale Ave. and Board experience wherever Kings Ave. you’d like. Since 2012, The Stein & Currently open WednesVine has been the go-to spot for many day through Saturday, Lacey and Ty have when Mathis renovated the old Pirates plans to open Bin + Board on Sundays Cove and later expanded into Brandon’s soon to feature a special brunch menu. first and most successful gastropub. His “We would like to thank our employees background at Pepin Distributing con- for their hard work during the past 12 nected him with brewers around town, months as well as the community for supwhich is the secret to why the pub re- porting not only our restaurants, but also ceives many hard-to-find selections and all the other small businesses in the area. one-offs. Ty’s creativity in the kitchen Your support has meant a lot to us and comes through on a daily basis with a has allowed us and many other small busiseemingly endless selection of chef spe- nesses in our area to survive,” they said. cial soups, salads, appetizers, sandwiches Visit steinandvine.com, binandboard. and main courses to choose from, along com or their Facebook pages for more inwith items on the everyday menu. formation.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
VETERAN GETS NEW ROOF THANKS TO HABITAT & OWENS CORNING PROGRAM By Michelle Caceres the side of their modest 984-square-foot home. “My mother texted me that day and told me she smelled smoke and thought someone was having a cookout at a nearby park,” said Joel. The couple managed to escape to safety. Jerry was able to save hundreds of Bibles in Spanish he was preparing to send to Honduras, but his modest home and all their belongings were destroyed. The Wootens, who had paid off their home mortgage, cancelled their homeowners insurance after seeing a large Brandon residents Jerry and Tina Wooten received spike in their premium cost. “My dad is such a benevolent man and a new roof on their home thanks to a partnership between Owens Corning and Southeastern Roof- has given so much, it’s wonderful to see ing and Construction. the community coming together to help The noisy sounds of hammering and him,” Joel said. “I appreciate everyone a generator running were music to Joel who has helped.” In addition to the new roof and trussWooten’s ears because they signaled the new roof that was being installed on his es, the entire interior was gutted and drywalled and electrical wiring was replaced. parents’ Heather Lakes home. The roof was being installed through When the work is complete, the home will building and industrial materials manufac- be decorated with new furniture. “This project has been a labor of love,” turer Owens Corning’s Roof Deployment Project, an initiative to honor and help said Habitat for Humanity’s Nitza Rivera, veterans by installing new roods. Owens who was also involved in the project. “The Corning partnered with Tampa-based Wootens’ home needed so much work and Southeastern Roofing and Construction, it wasn’t one person volunteering, but so one of its Platinum Preferred Contractors, many people helping.” She hopes the home will be completed to do the installation. “They contacted us about helping this in the next few months, allowing the Woofamily and we didn’t think twice,” said tens to be able to move back into their Southeastern Roofing Owner Ed Kappaz. home. They are currently living with their “Giving back is a part of our company’s daughter. For more information about Southeastculture.” Air Force Veteran Jerry Wooten and his ern Roofing and Construction, visit www. wife, Tina (both 82-years-old), are defi- seroof.com. For more information about nitely deserving of the generosity of Kap- Owens Corning, visit www.owenscorning. paz and so many others. A fire broke out com. To learn more about Habitat for Humanin their neighbor’s shed last year, making its way down their white PVC fence to ity, visit www.habitathillsborough.org.
Volume 20, Issue 4
WRAP YOUR MARKETING MESSAGE WITH IMAGE360 GRAPHICS
By Brad Stager
Letting cusFlexibility in martomers know keting may be more what a business important than ever can do for them and one answer to calls for well-dethat need is Imsigned and optiage360 Tampa-Ybor mally displayed City’s fleet of LED graphics that mobile billboard communicate intrucks that can formation, prodisplay up-to-themote ideas or Image360 Tampa-Ybor City can help your business minute information even create an or organization deliver a message to where the peo- about a business, ple are with LED mobile advertising. atmosphere and event or even the sense of place. availability of vaccines in the community. Image360 Tampa-Ybor City accomplish“Because of the COVID, a lot of compaes that by developing eye-catching mar- nies changed the way they conduct busiketing tools that are essential to attracting ness and changed their operations and lonew customers to businesses. cations,” said Burmaster. Products range from banner flags that “Our LED truck is a very good way for beckon passersby to drop in to custom dis- them to get their message out for a change plays providing useful information. Signage of operations or new product offerings. It’s options can be simple, such as custom aw- generally a good way to target your clients nings, or can be a combination of technol- to get the word out in a mass format,” he ogy and art to create illuminated marquee added. signs and one-of-a-kind displays. Turning a With the capacity to change locations car, van, truck or boat into a message-car- and messaging throughout the day, LED rying vehicle with artistic wrapping is also mobile advertising can also focus on spea popular service. cific demographics at scheduled times The company is a second career for with selective messages. Founder and Chief Executive Officer Bob The LED mobile billboard trucks have Burmaster, who turned his graphics hobby also become popular at private events into a business after serving as an officer such as parties, weddings and graduations in the United States Army for 22 years. with aesthetically pleasing displays that He said Image360’s menu of products and celebrate good news with friends, family services continues to grow. and neighbors in creative ways. “We try to help the local businesses by Image360 Tampa-Ybor City’s office and expanding our offerings; anything from an production center is located in the Ybor LED truck to banners. We do color photos, City Commerce Center at 3617-A E. 10th metal prints, wall murals and we can do Ave. in Tampa. You can learn more by visitthe artwork ourselves with our in-house ing tampayborcityfl.image360.com or calldesigners.” ing 800-7446.
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April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
Celebrating 40 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof? Do you think your roof may have wind damage? DO NOT REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITHOUT LETTING US TAKE A LOOK!
ROOF REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT SERVICES
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk 31-38
Ribbon-Cutting At Raulerson Dental Associates Raulerson Dental Associates is proud to have celebrated the opening of its new office with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house. The brand-new office is located at 510 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon and has been built from the ground up with careful consideration for the patients’ needs and comfort and equipped with the latest technology. Founded in 1986 under a different name by Dr. Bell and his successors, Dr. Ruscin, Dr. Schreier and Dr. John Raulerson, the practice has been a staple in the community for over 30 years. In 2014, Dr. Raulerson became the sole owner of the practice and it became known as Raulerson Dental Associates. Raulerson Dental Associates is a family dentistry practice specializing in cosmetic, prophylactic and restorative treatments. For more information, visit raulersondental.com or call 681-7183.
Beach Geeks Offers Technical Support And Much More Beach Geeks was founded in 2003 under the simple philosophy that it will handle your technology so you can focus on your business or even go to the beach; it now has locations in Hawaii, North Carolina, Washington DC, Sarasota and Tampa. Beach Geeks provides IT support for laptops, desktops, tablets, emails, websites and all of your computer/ technical needs, including website development, home wireless, cyber security and home theater troubleshooting and installation. It works with home users as well as small businesses, and has a 24x7x365 telephone help desk that can remotely take over your computer and resolve most issues without any in-person contact. Equipment such as Dell, HP, Lenovo and all software programs are also sold by Beach Geeks. In 2008, a home theater division was added that provides installation, support, troubleshooting for all AV and home networking equipment. With thousands of residential, commercial and government clients, it is eager to welcome new clients and partnerships. For more information, visit its website at www.beachgeeks.com or call 564-8469. Visit on Facebook at www. facebook.com/beachgeeks/.
Brooks & Brooks Law lubbers, it now offers small Firm group bus tours where you Choose Brooks & Brooks can explore everything from Law Firm for your next legal popular Florida destinations dilemma, whether that is a and activities to the beachcar accident, medical males. practice, a slip and fall, conLatitudes Tours is contract dispute or a landlord veniently 580 Bahia Beach tenant dispute. With a comBlvd. in Ruskin. Visit www. bined experience of over 49 latitudestours.com, and you years of practice, you will recan reach it by calling 641ceive the best representation 1311. Craig Beckinger, owner and possible and get its commit- lead planner of ABC Event ment to providing the highest Craig Beckinger Wins Planning. level of service. Brandon’s Alignable BusiBrooks & Brooks Law Firm is located ness Person Of The Year at 205 S. Hwy. 41., Ste. A in Ruskin and is The largest online referral network for open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 small businesses, Alignable.com, recently p.m. After-hours appointments can also be announced the results of its search for local made by calling the office on 906-6000. business leaders who have gone above and For more information, visit www.brooks- beyond to help peers during the COVID-19 brookslaw.com or follow the Brooks crisis. Craig Beckinger of ABC Event Plan& Brooks Law Firm Facebook page ning was honored as the Brandon winner. at https://www.facebook.com/ “Brandon’s community means a great deal TwoLocationsTampaRuskin. to me and, like many of my peers, I have gladly helped my fellow small business Latitudes Tours Business Ex- owners overcome a number of obstacles pansion during this tough time,” said Beckinger. “I Latitudes Tours has always been am beyond honored to receive this award known for its guided eco-tours and and very grateful for the heartwarming sunset cruises by boat where you can ex- support of my peers.” plore the Little Manatee River and nearby ABC Event Planning takes event prepanature preserve with its licensed captain rations off your shoulders, but never out and naturalist as your guide. Currently, it of your hands. Beckinger has designed has expanded its tours to include guided and managed dozens of events across a kayak tours led by a marine biologist as broad spectrum of categories. Visit info@ your guide; these tours are now depart- ABCEventplanning.com or call 561-876ing from six local locations. For the land- 6845.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... Trilogy Dive Center “Buddies-Up” ting 101 and organizational skills. with Brandon Sports And Aquatic My Education Coach and the Florida InCenter stitute of Health and Safety are a divisions In accordance with one of the first rules of the Zellwood Institute and are located of scuba diving to “never go it alone,” Bran- at 3433 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. don Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) They are open Monday to Saturday from 9 proudly announces a.m. to 7 p.m. For more informathat it will be opention, visit www.myeducationing up its facilities to coach.com. Trilogy Dive Center students. This will Dr. Frank Sirchia Of Milleninclude the weeknium Physician Group Is long scuba camps, Back which, after compleDr. Frank Sirchia of Millennition, the participant um Physician Group is back in will receive the SDI practice. He has been practicing Open Water Dive family medicine for 26 years Certification. This in Riverview with a focus on camp is limited to 12 prevention and chronic disease students who must management. He combines cutbe over 10 years old ting-edge medicine and coordiDr. Frank Sirchia of Millennium to participate. BSAC, nation of care with a compassionPhysician Group. a 501c3 non profit, is ate approach. He treats patients dedicated to community partnership and of all ages, offers same-day appointments has made a practice of assisting other or- and can accommodate walk-ins. Dr. Sirchia ganizations who share its values. As CEO speaks Italian, Spanish, French and English. Chuck Burgess attests, the new partnerMillennium Physician Group is located at ship is more of a continuation than any- 6037 Winthrop Commerce Ave., Ste. 200 thing else, saying that he’s eager to see in Riverview. Visit www.millenniumphysiTrilogy back on the BSAC campus. cian.com or call 423-7123. For more information on Trilogy Dive Center’s classDeliz Dental Studio es and camps, visit www. Opens trilogyscuba.com. BSAC Dr. Will Deliz believes is located at 405 Beverly that a visit to the dentist Blvd. in Brandon and its should feel more like a website is www.mybsac. relaxing vacation than a org. trip to the DMV. His newly opened Deliz Dental Studio Florida Orthopaedic in Valrico helps people enInstitute Introduces joy a unique, highly personThree Physicians From alized, one-of-a-kind dental Recent Merger experience that feels like Dr. Will Deliz recently opened Florida Orthopaedic Inits doors opened just for Deliz Dental Studio in Valrico. stitute (FOI) is proud to anyou. nounce the introduction of Dr. Neil Kumar, Deliz Dental Studio is located at 2448 Dr. Peter Lopez and Dr. Robert Maddalon to Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico and is open its expanding practice. Drs. Kumar, Lopez Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Serand Maddalon are formerly from Brandon vices offered include routine dental care, Orthopedic Associates (BOA), one of five crowns, bridges, implants and Invisalign. practices included in the merger between To make an appointment, call 755-1800. FOI and OrthoCare announced in March 2020. “Drs. Kumar, Simon Firearms Adds Mini Lopez and Maddalon Training Classes To Its are all welcome adCourses ditions to the Sports Simon Firearms & Family Medicine, Hand & Safety Training is pleased to Upper Extremity announce, in addition to its and Hip & Knee diviConcealed Carry & Home Desions, respectively,” fense Certification courses, said Lee Levanduski, chief operating officer the introduction of its Mini (Bite-Size) at Florida Orthopaedic Institute. Training Classes. These programs include For additional information on Florida basic firearm fundamentals and safety, Orthopaedic Institute, visit www.florid- home, busiaortho.com. Appointments can be made by ness and house calling 978-9797. of worship security plans. My Education Coach & The Florida These classes Institute Of Health And Safety Offer A are designed Variety Of Classes to focus on an My Education Coach and the Florida individual’s or Institute of Health and Safety offer spe- group’s percialized professional and occupational sonal protective interest or safety concoaching, tutoring and training in individ- cerns. ual, group and organizational settings. A Concealed Carry and Home Defense variety of programs are offered, including Certification courses continue, and the Health & Safety and Student Support. next date is Saturday, April 17. For more Specific classes cover areas such as CPR information and details, please email Beand first aid, career counselling, babysit- Safe@SimonSafetyTraining.com.
Volume 20, Issue 4
ECHO ALLOWING MORE EMERGENCY VISITS FOR FAMILIES IN NEED THIS YEAR By Lily Belcher full-time employees has allowed families to use ECHO’s services every four months if necessary. “We’ve seen how effective it is to have people on staff that all they’re doing full-time is helping people get back to work or helping people navigate through the very complex system that is social services,” explained Saunders. The expansion, however, would not be possible without the generous A mom and her son receive emergency donations from ECHO. support of the community. The Emergency Care Health OrganizaWhile many families suftion (ECHO) is opening its doors for fam- fered from unemployment and financial ilies in need more often this year, allowing struggles in 2020 due to quarantine during families to pick up emergency food and the coronavirus, ECHO received an abunclothing three times a year, as opposed to dance of donations and was able to pass two times. ECHO has also abolished the out food and supplies as soon as it came four-visit limit for families that use its ser- in. ECHO was able to donate the surplus of vices. food and clothing to other nonprofits, such “Our goal is really to get to the root of as Manna on Wheels, Landmark Ministries the hunger and really help somebody get and Seeds of Hope. into a place in their lives where they can ECHO accepts clothing and food donaprovide for themselves. In order to do that, tions year-round and is currently in need it is just advantageous for them and for us of gently used children shoes and men’s that we can see them more than twice clothing, specifically small and medium siza year,” said Executive Director Eleanor es. Members of the community can make Saunders. monetary donations online to help ECHO if ECHO has been serving Brandon fam- they do not have items to give. ilies in need since 1987 by distributing To make monetary donations, visit echofood and clothing donated by the commu- fl.kindful.com. For more information, connity. Before the expansion, families could tact the Brandon location at 685-0935 make emergency visits six months apart, or the Riverview location at 540-9880 or but the new policy and addition of two visit echofl.org.
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April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
TAMPA BAY RAYS ROOKIES KIDS CLUB OFFERS DIGITAL EXPERIENCE FOR YOUNG BASEBALL FANS By Lily Belcher
The Tampa Bay Rays Rookies Kids Club offers digital experiences with players and staff, including Rays mascot Raymond.
The Tampa Bay Rays are more than just the 2020 American League Champions, they are also a vital contribution to Tampa Bay area charitable causes. Throughout the year, the Rays front office and players work to involve the community, especially elementary and middle school-aged children, through programs such as Reading with the Rays and Poynter Institute’s Write Field Program. In February, the World Series runner-ups launched their 2021 Rays Rookies Kids Club, sponsored by Outback Steakhouse, giving children under 14 years old access to promotional items, exclusive digital content and an online portal with activities through the $30 membership. “The online membership portal is a new feature for this season that allows us to connect with fans while they are away from the ballpark,” said Tampa Bay Rays Director of Promotions Stephon Thomas. “On the portal, members can download activity sheets, answers trivia questions, participate in polls, watch videos and more. The portal is also where we will host digital experiences with Rays players and staff. These digital experiences will include Zoom videos with Raymond, players and
other special guests.” The digital portal offers five monthly challenges to members to complete for additional prizes and notifies Rays Rookies of upcoming virtual meet-and-greets with guests. Rays Rookies Kids Club members will receive a Rays duffle bag, snapback hat and 2020 American League Championship socks. Those who sign up before Opening Day on Thursday, April 1 will receive their premium promotional items in April for the beginning of the season. Children who sign up after Opening Day can expect their gifts at least two weeks after they sign up. “Our mission is to energize the community through the magic of Rays baseball. The Kids Club is one of the most important ways that we can do that. We want to build connections between kids in the community as well as with the team, as we build Rays fans for generations to come,” said Thomas. To sign up for the limited membership, visit raysbaseball.com/raysrookies or sign up through the Major League Baseball Ballpark App. For information or additional questions, email raysrookies@raysbaseball.com.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2021
Page 29
GET THE DIRT: DROUGHT TOLERANT PLANTS AND A DRY SPRING
BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT How can you balance a to full shade. Beautyberdry spring with your desire ry tolerates drought well, for landscape plants? Utilize but not salt. It produces drought- tolerant plants in purple/light purple flowers your landscape. As always, from spring through fall, consider the first principle attracts wildlife and proof the Florida-Friendly Landvides food for wildlife in scaping™ program which is late winter. right plant, right place. This Perennials: means you should consider Helianthuis debilis – your site conditions: soil type Beach sunflower can reach and pH, sun or shade, whetha height of 1 to 4 feet and er the plant prefers wet or a spread of 2 to 4 feet. dry soil moisture and mature It prefers soil pH that is plant size. acidic to slightly alkaline Drought-tolerant plants of 4.5-7.2 and sandy loam still need water to become soil texture. Beach sunestablished, which means flower needs well-drained shoot and root growth. The soil moisture, full sun and plants in this article are suittolerates drought and salt. ed for North, Central, West This fast-growing native Central and South Florida. produces year-round flowLarge Shrubs: ers and attracts birds. Aloysia virgata – Sweet alGaillardia pulchella – mond bush can reach a height Blanket Flower, a native, and spread of 6 to 12 feet, can reach a height of 1 to tolerates any soil pH from 2 feet and spread of 2 to 4.5 to 8.0 and any soil tex3 feet. This beauty preture. This shrub prefers mefers soil pH that is slightly dium-drained soil moisture Some plants that do well during acidic to slightly alkaline and tolerates drought well. It the spring in Florida include of 6.0-7.2, sandy loam soil performs best in full sun, at- beautyberry sweet almond bush texture and well-drained tracts butterflies and produces soil moisture. Blanket flowand beach sunflower. Photos courtesy of Larry Williams er needs full sun and tolerwhite, fragrant flowers from summer through fall. ates drought. It also tolerates medium salt Callicarpa americana – Beautyberry, a amounts. Visit our website at http://sfyl. deciduous plant, can reach a height and ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/ and check out our spread of 6 to 8 feet, prefers soil pH that calendar of events at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ is acidic to slightly alkaline of 4.5-7.2 and hillsborough/upcoming-events/. Remember any soil texture. This native performs best to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat. Conin well-drained soil and partial sun/shade tact Lynn Barber at labarber@ufl.edu.
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Page 30
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
IS YOUR CHILD TALKING? By age two, your child should have 200 words and combine 2-3 word sentences.
PATIENT of the MONTH Slade (Age 5)
With rich and abundant biodiversity throughout the state, snakes are a great indicator species for the health of our ecosystems. Florida is home to 44 species of snakes, with six of those species being venomous. The eastern coral snake is one of our most interesting and beautiful venomous snakes. Shy by nature, the eastern coral snake can be a rare sight to see, depending on which part of the state you live in. Brightly colored with red, yellow and black rings, the eastern coral snake is often hard to miss. If you grew up in the South, a familiar rhyme has likely been passed on to you to identify these elusive creatures: “Red touches yellow, kill a fellow…” However, this common mnemonic is very misleading. Eastern coral snakes are not vicious killers, rather, they are small, secretive animals that prefer to be hidden and out of sight. Most of their time is spent underground away from clear view of predators or people. Eastern coral snakes average around 1830 inches in length and are slender in girth. Females are generally longer in total length while males usually have longer tails. Eastern coral snakes are diurnal but hunt most actively during the day. Their black-tipped faces are most identifiable by the yellow ring that encircles their heads
behind their small eyes. Most commonly found in the dryer, less vegetated habitats of Florida, eastern coral snakes are common in pine and shrubland habitats and they are encountered in preserve areas, typically around leaved and mulched regions. Eastern coral snakes are notoriously skittish and nonaggressive critters. Their diet is carnivorous, and they survive on lizards, frogs and even other, smaller snakes. Solitary by nature, eastern coral snakes tend to keep to themselves. Their short, fixed front fangs make bites to humans extremely rare as these reptiles require extensive chewing to envenomate their prey. Incidents with eastern coral snakes are almost nonexistent, with over 95 percent of reported bites happening from interference and unnecessary handling of these wild animals. The main threats to the eastern coral snakes are development, sprawl and overall loss and depletion of habitat. While many have a fear of snakes in general, they are critical to the overall success of our ecosystems and play critical roles in the food web. Eastern coral snakes should never be harassed, handled or killed. Rather, they can be admired from afar and appreciated for their important role in keeping our habitat healthy, wild and vibrant.
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Kratom is a plant that is related to the coffee plant. Coffee releases a chemical called caffeine, however Kratom contains a chemical called mitragynine, an alkaloid that acts on the brain opiate receptors and alters mood. In Asia, people use it in small doses as an energy and mood booster and larger amounts for pain.
so there is a lot of confusing, and conflicting information online. If you would like more info on Kratom or try a free sample, come to either Chill Caw-Fee location and we will be happy to explain in detail.
A recent study by Hopkinsmedicine.org estimates up to 16 million people use Kratom.
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A recent survey of 2,798 people…of these participants, 91% reported taking kratom to alleviate pain for back, shoulder and knee pain, 67% for anxiety and 65% for depression. About 41% of survey responders said they took kratom to treat opioid withdrawal, and of those people who took it for opioid withdrawal, 35% reported going more than a year without taking prescription opioids or heroin. There are different strains and different methods to consume, as well as quality of product. Kratom is not FDA approved
Photo credit : John’s Hopkins Medicine
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April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY OPTIONS TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED Have you got the calendar ready? Last summer, most children’s fun plans were affected by the pandemic, but this year, organizations all over the area are ready to keep children active, engaged and, most importantly, safe during the time off school. The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull-out section. We asked local camps what they are doing to keep students healthy while giving them the summer of fun they deserve. At Music Showcase, music and theater take the stage, and so can your child. Musicals will be offered where your child can hold starring roles in popular musicals offered by the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up. The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps at its great summer camp location, Camp Cristina in Riverview, which mixes fun along with great learning experiences. With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone.
A Child’s Haven offers kitchen-prepared meals and various activities for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Weekly themes utilizing age-specific activities and field trips are what make BSAC’s Camp High 5 unique.
Specialty camps for soccer (Florida Hawks FC), base-
ball (Ostingers Academy) basketball and flag football (FishHawk Fellowship Church) and art (Center Place) also offer great opportunities for creative and athletic summer learning. Kids ‘R’ Kids at Circa FishHawk and Valrico offer full and half-day summer fun with weekly field trips and themes. What better skill to learn in the summer than scuba diving and Trilogy Dive Center makes it easy with a week-long course for children 10 and older with pick up from BSAC in Brandon. After 16 years of bringing successful
STEM camps to the Brandon area, TechPlayzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place and virtually for families who prefer to stay at home. For dates, prices and registration information on these camps and more, turn the pages, enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Our staff has also compiled information on the COVID-19 policies from temperature checks to sanitation procedures for these camps to help you feel confident on where you want to send your children this summer. Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ospreyobserver.com. Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) kquesada@ ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online. Have a great summer of fun!
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
SAFE AND FUN SUMMER CAMPS AT YMCA
KIDS ‘R’ KIDS PREPARES FOR A FUN SUMMER
By Libby Hopkins
By Libby Hopkins
“Summer is the ideal time for kids to get CDC and local health officials come June,” up, get out and explore. But, for some kids, Llerena said. “We are in constant commusummer means no access to recreational nication with our camper families and will and educational activities. That’s why the send them vital information and policies Tampa YMCA offers summer camp, to about all the extra precautions we are takmake sure kids and teens in the Tampa Bay ing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at area are advenour camps. We want turous, active and parents to feel as comhealthy this sumfortable as possible mer,” said Tampa with our campMetropolitan Area ing process.” YMCA Senior ComBefore chilmunications Direcdren and staff tor Lalita Llerena. are checked in, “At the YMCA, we their temperaknow that when tures are takkids accomplish YMCA is gearing up for a safe, fun summer with en for the safety and more, make new their upcoming camps. Many COVID-19 safety well-being of others in friends and feel like protocols are in place to ensure campers are safe the camp. Those running while attending camps this summer. they belong, they a temperature of 100.4are developing the skills they need to be plus degrees cannot attend. There will also successful in life.” be staggered curbside check-in. Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, Campers will remain in same low ratio fun day camp program this summer. “YMCA groups throughout the week. There will Summer Camp is led by a team of kind, be “individual and spaced out activities to trustworthy individuals committed to cre- practice safe social distancing where posating a safe place for campers to practice sible when inside and limited sharing of social skills and character values,” Llerena supplies,” Llerena said. “There will be ample said. “Our values-based camp curriculum access to handwashing and hand sanitizwill help campers develop self-reliance, a er stations, especially at check-in, before love for the outdoors, positive attitudes and meals and after restroom use. YMCA staff values that build character and leadership, intentionally teach and encourage good all amidst the fun of swimming, creative hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and arts, crafts, sports, outdoor nature educa- follow a strict sick child/staff policy.” In tion and field games.” Hillsborough County, all staff and members The YMCA is focused on COVID-19 safety (ages 5 and up) are required to wear a face for its summer camps as well. “Safety proto- covering indoors while not exercising or cols will continue for YMCA Summer Camp participating in youth sports. 2021, based on recommendations from the Visit www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.
Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy provides Kids is excited to kick off Summer Camp a secure, nurturing and educational envi- Focus on Fun,” Fernandes said. “Week after ronment for children. Its school is a place week of awesome activities are designed for children to bloom into responsible, con- around a variety of engaging themes. It’s siderate and conall about double the fun, doutributing members ble the smiles and double the of society. “With a memories.” love of children at Each week of camp offers our core, each Kids a different theme and each ‘R’ Kids facility is camp has COVID-19 safety family-owned and protocols in place. “We will operated by local continue to monitor this residents to ensure rapidly evolving situation a solid sense of and follow the recommencommunity,” said dations of the World Health Owner Ben FerOrganization, Public Health nandes. “Kids ‘R’ Departments, CDC, Child Kids ‘R’ Kids offers a variety of weekly Kids Learning Acad- themed summer camps. All COVID-19 Care Licensing, state and losafety protocols and procedures are emies are nationally cal officials,” Fernandes said. in place to ensure campers’ safety this “The safety and well-being of renowned and our summer. academy is proud the children in our care, their to be part of your community. We desire families and our staff are our highest prithe absolute best for the children in our ority and is at the core of our Kids ‘R’ Kids care and, therefore, we provide a safe and mission and policies. We have been the pisecure, state-of-the-art environment with oneers in providing the best in safety feaon-site owners.” tures and procedures, and we will continue COVID-19 safety is a priority with Fer- to lead the way. We are keeping our camp nandes and his staff. “During the pandem- sizes small, masks are required indoors and ic, we went virtual,” Fernandes said. “Now social distancing will be practiced.” we are focusing on our kids having a safe Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from and fun summer. We know a lot of our kids Tuesday, June 1 through Friday, August had cabin fever over the last few months 6. Spaces are limited for their camps. If and now we want them to get outside and you’d like to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids’ enjoy their summer.” camps, visit www.kidsrkids.com/valrico/ Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer pro- programs/summer-camp or call 657-6200. grams in 2004 and since then it has grown The campus is located at 4321 Lynx Paw to offer a variety of programming. “Kids ‘R’ Trl. in Valrico.
April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FAOPA AT MUSIC SHOWCASE HOSTS A VARIETY OF SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Summer is right around the corner and campers can sign up for music-oriented many families are already looking for fun camps where they can experience differsummer camp activities for their children. ent instruments, voice, acting, dance and Summer camps build memories and friend- art. Camps are structured by age, ability ships that can last a lifetime. If you have and interests. The benefits of participating an aspiring actor, musician or entertainer in arts education include improved acain your family, demic performance and then the Floriincreased self-esteem. da Academy of Debbie Evans, directhe Performtor of FAOPA, is happy ing Arts (FAto offer families proOPA) at Music grams that allow their Showcase is children a unique sumexactly what mer camp expeyou’re looking rience. for. “It’s great seeTo keep eving the students The Florida Academy of the eryone safe, many progress so Performing Arts is hosting protocols are be- its annual summer camp quickly in their ing implemented, programs at Music Showcase in Brandon. Regis- craft, come together as including masks, a team and form friendtration begins in mid-March. limited camp sizes ships that last a lifetime, and temperature checks. Students will be ” said Evans. “We hear from the parents able to bring their own food and beverages and students that they like the energy, the (labeled with their name). professionalism, the sense of inclusion and There are many camp options, including belonging, the opportunity to work with full and half-day camps for musical theater talented and loving directors and the variwith full performances at the end and cos- ety of programming and activities.” tumes, props and set designs. Some of the The Florida Academy of Performing Arts musicals that will be performed are Honk is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonder- was established to support the performing land Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musi- arts through programs at the academy and cal Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway in the community. for the Decades and The Addams Family. Camp registration opens in mid-March. Also offered is an a cappella camp, For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org Broadway boot camp, acting intensives or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is locatand acting improv camp. In addition, ed at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
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BSAC’S SUMMER CAMP PRESENTS THIS YEAR’S THEME: PEACE, LOVE AND HIGH 5
By Hayley Fedor
Let the fun families during and games bethe pandemic. gin because the Hand sanitizing Brandon Sports stations will and Aquatic be provided Center (BSAC) throughout the is getting ready property and to welcome masks are manback children datory upon grades K 5 entry. Both parthrough sixth ticipants and for Camp High staff will also 5 this summer. undergo a temBSAC is doperature check ing something at the start of special with the each day at camp this year the camp. and taking a In light Camp High 5 keeps children Retro Approach engaged and energized with a of the panvariety of activities. to their camp demic, this theme. Peace, summer, Love & High5 Kicks off June 1st, 2021. BSAC will Each week will feature a different theme be capping based off of a musical era, starting in the the camp at 50s and working all the way up to today. 200 particiAt BSAC and through Camp High 5, chil- pants. dren are able to participate in a variety of Camp High 5 will begin on Monday, June recreations that are based around aquat- 1st and will be in session on weekdays, ics, arts and crafts as well as sports. Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. “A lot of what our kids do is the aquatic at BSAC, which is located at 405 Beverly time so they’re in the pool, but they’re also Blvd. in Brandon. Registration is currently outdoors participating in sports and rec- open and will be available until each week reational activities,” said Chuck Burgess, of the camp has reached its capacity. CEO. To register your child for camp or to find Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking out more information about Camp High 5 extra preventative measures this summer and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Cento ensure the safety of participants and ter, visit https://www.mybsac.org/camp.
Florida Hawks FC Summer Camp
“Soccer Fun with Coach Juan”
Boys and Girls
born between 2014 and 2009 July 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 2021 9.00 am to 1.00 pm
Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex Lithia FL
Your child must bring: • Readiness to have a lot of fun playing soccer • Cleats, shin guards, and a ball • Snack • Water bottle
$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2021 $225.00 if registered after April 15, 2021 CAMP FEATURES:
Age appropriate technical and tactical instruction • Small sided games • Daily 5 v 5 Competitions Daily Soccer Tennis and Soccer Golf Competitions • Professional coaching staff • Camp T Shirt Registration:www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FishHawk Fellowship Church Offers Basketball And More Sports lovers take note. FishHawk Fellowship Church is hosting a sports camp this summer, which will include soccer, flag football and basketball. In order to prioritize safety, the camp will be limited to 100 attendees and masks will be mandated during sign-in and check-in, but playtime will not require masks. All camp materials and equipment will be sanitized daily and campers are asked to bring their own snacks. FishHawk Fellowship Church is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia and can be reached at 655-7431. For more information, visit www.fishhawkfc.org/sports.
To learn more, visit www.floridahawksfc. com.
Soccer Fun With Coach Juan If your athlete is looking for a fun way to improve soccer skills this summer, look no further that the Florida Hawks Futbol Club’s Soccer Fun with Coach Juan camp taking place from Monday to Friday, July 5-9 at the FishHawk Sports Complex. The camp is open to boys and girls born between 2009 and 2014. According to Juan de Brigard, director of coaching, the camp will have a limit of 96 campers and groups no larger than 12 players, with one coach and one helper, temperature check stations and strict policies about not coming to camp with any symptoms or sharing equipment.
Ostingers Invites Baseball Players For Four Camp Sessions With a combined 30 years of professional playing and coaching experience, Ostingers Baseball coaches are ready to provide little athletes with safe fun this summer. Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players 7-14 years of age. There will be a ratio of no more than 5:1 campers to instructors, allowing for more social distancing, instruction and reps during the camp. All campers must wear masks while in instruction groupings, even when social distancing. While outside, players can remove their masks if they are able
Trilogy Dive Center Offers Scuba Certification Camps What better opportunity than a summer camp to learn to scuba dive? Trilogy Dive Center is offering weeklong scuba certification camps at Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) for children 10 and older. The camp includes transportation from BSAC, classroom academics and all equipment during the class. COVID-19 protocols include small class sizes (maximum of 12 students), masks required indoors, handwashing and sanitizer stations, temperature checks on arrival and cleaning and sanitization of all equipment. To learn more, visit www.TrilogyScuba.com or call 425-3500.
to socially distance themselves during small group work. There will be hand sanitizing stations and the academy will be disinfected before the day begins and after the day is over each day. When arriving at camp each morning, all campers and instructors will be given a temperature check to make sure there are no issues. To learn more, visit www.OstingBaseball.com or call 737-3000. TechPlayzone Celebrates 16 Years Of STEM Camps After 16 years of bringing successful STEM camps to the Brandon area, TechPlayzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place. Camps will begin in July and will run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon for rising second through fifth grade students. Afternoon sessions with a virtual option will also be available. COVID-19 protocols include temperature checks, regular sanitization, masks and small group sizes (four to five campers per group all week). To learn more, visit www. techplayzone.com or call 444-2267. BSAC Highlights Music For Annual Camp Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) is getting ready to welcome back children grades K5 through sixth for Camp High 5 this summer. BSAC is doing something special with the camp this year by highlighting music and incorporating musical components throughout the event; the grand
Volume 20, Issue 4
theme for the summer is called Peace, Love and High 5. Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking extra preventative measures this summer to ensure the safety of participants and families during the pandemic. Hand sanitizing stations will be provided throughout the property and masks are mandatory upon entry. Both participants and staff will also undergo a temperature check at the start of each day at the camp. For more information about Camp High 5 and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, visit mybsac.org. Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Summer Camp And More Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer programs in 2004 and since then it has grown to offer a variety of programming. Each week of camp offers a different theme and each camp has COVID-19 safety protocols in place. The organization is continuing to monitor recommendations of the World Health Organization, Public Health Departments, CDC, Child Care Licensing, state and local officials and is keeping camp sizes small, masks are required indoors and social distancing will be practiced. Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from Tuesday to Friday, June 1 through August 6. Spaces are limited for its camps. For more information, visit www.kidsrkids.com/valrico/programs/summer-camp or call 657-6200.
April 2021
Performing Arts Camp To Be Held At Music Showcase The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase will offer many camp options, including full and halfday camps for musical theater with full performances at the end and costumes, props and set designs. Some of the musicals that will be performed are Honk Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonderland Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musical Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway for the Decades and The Addams Family. To keep everyone safe, many protocols are being implemented, including masks, limited camp sizes and temperature checks. Students will be able to bring their own food and beverages (labeled with their name). For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. YMCA Has Camps For All Following a very successful summer in 2020, where the YMCA safely served more than 12,000 campers across Hillsborough and Eastern Pasco Counties, the Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, fun day camp program this summer. With locations throughout the area offering activities from fishing to arts and crafts and much more, the YMCA has something to offer children ages 6 and older with most interests. Before children and staff are checked in, their temperatures are taken for the safety and well-being of others in the camp. Those running a temperature of 100.4-plus degrees
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
cannot attend. There will also be staggered curbside check-in. Lower ratio camp groups spread throughout the whole facility. Campers will remain in their same groups throughout the week. To learn more about the YMCA Summer Camps or to register, visit www.tampaymca.org/letscamp. Morning Glory Preschool Offers Weekly Field Trips & More From arts and crafts to friendship parties and academic summer fun, Morning Glory Preschool offers summer fun for your elementary school-aged child. Safety measures include masks at all times apart from dining, handwashing, temperature checks and complete daily sanitization of the building. Children at the camp will enjoy music, sports and games, outdoor water play and pizza parties. The preschool is located at 6001 Christy Ln., off Bloomingdale Ave. near U.S. 301. To learn more call 628-0541 or visit www.MorningGloryPreschool.com.
Camp Osprey Features Safe Adventures
An all-inclusive overnight adventure camp, with day camper options, Camp Osprey is opening again this summer with a safe way to keep your kids, ages 7-15, entertained and happy. The camp, which offers activities such as horseback riding, paintball, high ropes, canoeing, archery, fishing and more, was open last year and is following CDC safety guidelines. Safety measures include temperature
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checks, handwashing, sanitization, staff serving meals and water bottles getting washed and bleached daily. The camp is located at 18050 U.S. 301 in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-928-6860. For more information, visit www.camposprey.com.
out The Learning Experience in FishHawk. Now enrolling for the summer, The Learning Experience is following state regulations for camp size and social distancing based on age groups. All staff members are required to wear masks and parents must also wear them when dropping off and picking up their children. Masks are optional for children 3 and older. Two snacks and one lunch are provided and handwashing stations and sanitizers are available. Daily Sanitation protocols are enforced, including weekly electrostatic spraying. There are also daily temperature checks for both children and staff. The camp is located at 16232 Bayberry Glen Dr. in Lithia. Call 681-5544 for more information.
Dance, Music And Theater At The Straz With Patel Conservatory If your camper is interested in the performing arts, check out the weekly camps offered through the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center. The group offers camps and classes for all ages and skill levels with dance, music and theater options. Masks will be mandatory at the camp and the group will practice social distancing. Regular handwashing is encouraged throughout the day and a hand VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: sanitizer is provided upon entry into the conservatory and located T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven Ofin every classroom. There will be fers Hands-On Fun daily temperature checks and a Do you have a horse lovhealth screening questionnaire reer at home? If so, check out quired to be complete by all campT.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven’s sumers and staff, and camp start times are stag- mer camps. Running weekly from late gered, as is camper drop-off. May until early August, the camp offers The Straz Center has received a seal of small groups the opportunity to learn about approval from Tampa General Hospital’s horses in an outdoor, socially distanced consulting service, TGH Prevention Response setting. Facilities are cleaned regularly and Outreach (TPRO), for campus-wide reopen- groups are no larger than 10. ing protocols. Masks are not required because campers To learn more, visit www.patelconservato- are outside only. The camp, which is open to ry.org or call 222-1040. ages 8 to 99, is located only 10 minutes from The Learning Experience Is Now EnFishHawk at 4325 E. rolling For Summer Fun Keysville Rd. in Lithia. For safe, summer fun and learning, check Visit TLCSfarms.com.
TLCSFARMS.COM
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
SUN ‘N FUN BRINGS PLANES AND FAMILY FUN TO LAKELAND
Staff Report
Soaring your way from Tuesday to Sunday, April 13-18, the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is back and better than ever. Coming off the heels of 2020’s unfortunate cancellation due to COVID-19 restrictions, aviation enthusiasts can look forward to six exciting days of SUN ‘n FUN’s world-famous aviation spectacle, including hundreds of exhibitors, dozens of forums and workshops plus breathtaking aerial displays by some of the best airshow performers in the business. Since 1974, SUN ‘n FUN has attracted millions of plane spotters and pilots alike from around the globe to share their collective passion for slipping Earth’s surly bonds. This 2021 Aerospace Expo is eagerly anticipated by aviation enthusiasts and fans everywhere as they look forward to this open-spaced, action-packed outdoor event. Following recommended CDC guidelines, safety procedures for public health have been put into place for this year’s show so that fans can get back to safely enjoying magnificent airshows again in 2021 at Lakeland Linder International Airport.
“Our event certainly suffered alongside the rest of the world when the pandemic forced us to cancel last year,” said Greg Gibson, chief marketing officer and airshow director for SUN ‘n FUN, “but we are coming back better than ever in 2021 with new and exciting things for our guests in a COVID-responsible venue that has their safety and enjoyment as top priorities.” Headlining the show’s exclusive lineup are the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, who are celebrating their 75th anniversary with all-new F-18 Super Hornets and the return of ‘Fat Albert.’ An Ex-Royal Air Force C-130J Hercules recently retired from the Royal Air Force ‘across the pond’ has taken on the role of the fan favorite affectionately known as ‘Bert,’ and so many more demonstrations, planes and events. SUN ‘n FUN will honor 2020 ticket purchases at the 2021 SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo as long as no refunds have been made. Just bring your 2020 ticket with you and you are all set. Please contact SUN ‘n FUN if a change is required for a scheduled ticket (i.e. 9/27 Club or Preferred Airshow Seating). For 2021 ticket purchases, visit https://flysnf.org/aerospace-expo/purchase-tickets.
Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.
Session 1 June 7-11 (M-F)
Session 2 June 21-25 (M-F)
Session 3 July 12- 16 (M-F)
Session 4 July 26- 30 (M-F)
Location:
M-W Ostingers Academy • 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Road Th-F Field for games and other activities Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs Space is Limited Register Early Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to hold your spot! Cost: $235/camper $200/ multi camp or multi child discount *Must register for multi camp discount all at once
Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:
Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com
K5-5th Grade Arts & Crafts • Friendship Play • Academic Summer Fun • Music Sports & Games • Character & Manners • Ice Cream Social • Pizza Parties Bouncy House & Giant Slide • Outdoor Water Play
$115/wk (Upcoming K5 - 5th Grade Campers)
Includes Weekly Field Trip & All Activities
www.MorningGloryPreschool.org License# CHC433643
April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY RELEASES ‘MOBILE SWIM’ PROGRAM SCHEDULE FOR SPRING & SUMMER 2021
Page 37
WWW.CAMPOSPREY.COM -6860
941-928
Staff Report
In support of youth drowning prevention efforts, made possible by a grant from the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County and the leadership of the YMCA, Brandon Sports and Aquatic (BSAC) is pooling its own resources together to help give this year’s ‘Mobile Swim’ program another gentle push out and into the local communities it serves in Brandon and beyond. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, BSAC has been working to turn the tide against loss of life in the water since its inception back in 1963. Here in the present day, CEO Chuck Burgess remains just as strong of an advocate as ever, saying that everyone on his team feels simply “blessed to be a part of it.” “We couldn’t ask for a better lead agent than the YMCA. Together with the Children’s Board, they make sure that every partner involved—including all of us at BSAC—meet the expectations of the funding,” he explained. “We’re very excited to focus on our part in the youth drowning component with regard to overall lessons made possible through Mobile Swim, which is one area where we can excel at through our own swim school.” Burgess said that while BSAC has
earned international recognition for Olympians and Olympic medalists, the first and foremost priority is to “make sure that no child ever drowns again.” “Of course, it all starts with teaching kids how to swim safely and confidently. The other component with the Mobile Swim and Head Start is the education we provide for parents and caretakers responsible for watching over them in and around water.” Over time, BSAC’s water safety programs for children in Head Start have provided free swimming lessons for more than 2,000 students. Yet, according to Burgess, BSAC is “more than just a pool”; it’s an expansive, 12.5-acre facility serving the greater athletic goals of more than 15,000 people and their families. For details about BSAC, visit mybsac. org. To find a Mobile Swim location near you, with a complete listing of dates and times for upcoming sessions, log on to www.mybsac.org/programs/aquatics/ mobileswim/. All participants must be between the ages of 3-14 and be residents of the neighborhood where the swim classes are being held. Registration forms by local property managers must also be completed in advance.
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April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 38
CENTER PLACE FINE ARTS & CIVIC ASSOCIATION REOPENS WITH NEW PROGRAMMING
By Libby Hopkins
Center Place Fine Arts unwind, make new friends, & Civic Association in try new things and inspire Brandon is considered the the community to see area’s best-kept secret. things differently.” It has been a part of the Center Place will also community for more than be offering some STEM44 years. It almost became based summer camps with one of Brandon’s best-kept TechPlayzone and Bricks 4 memories because the Kidz. It will also be offercenter was facing a pering horticulture-based promanent closure due to the gramming through its new COVID-19 pandemic. partnership with We Teach Center Place’s dim future Plants (www.weteachwas turned around when plants.com). the new executive board Center Place has also and interim executive dipartnered with Learn & rector (me) stepped in to Play Tampa Bay (glazermusave the heart and art of seum.org/learnplaytampathe Brandon community. bay), which is a kindergarCenter Place Fine Arts & Civic Association will reopen its doors on March 21 and it is bringing the Brandon community some awesome I’m thrilled to let the new programming mixed with the classic programs offered at Center Place. Some of the new programming will be Holy Yoga with Cassie ten readiness program that community know that Cenwill be offering pop-up play and Eliza McClelland (left), painting with Fabstraq (center) and sketch art with artist Frankie Gonzalez (right). ter Place reopened its doors sessions over the summer desperately need community, belonging, about helping others along the way,” Fabon March 21 and is bringing at Center Place. the Brandon community some awesome art—and yoga is a practice that provides straq said. “For me, it has always been The center is also working on other comnew programming mixed with the classic grounding and can bring a sense of inner imperative that while focusing on the munity partnerships to offer programs for calm in tumultuous time.” McClelland and goal of sharing my art, I also help others parents of children with Down syndrome programs offered at Center Place. The grand reopening event featured her daughter, Eliza, will be teaching Holy understand what a gift creating art truly through the Down Syndrome Association some of the new programs and the art- Yoga, which is a faith-based yoga prac- can be, especially children.” of Tampa Bay (www.dsatb.org). Artist Frankie Gonzalez (www.frankieists and instructors who will be teaching tice, as well as other forms of yoga. Keep an eye out for the new Center Local artist Fabstraq (www.fabstraq. gart.com) will be teaching sketch art at Place website and social media pages, as them. “We are excited to teach at Center Place because we see it as a beau- com) will be teaching various painting Center Place. “With everything going on Center Place is also going through a new tiful place that will meet the needs of classes at Center Place. “I have always in the world right now, we can feel stuck, rebranding for 2021. To learn more, visthe community,” said Yoga Instructor known that my journey as an artist is not but I believe Center Place and its artistic it www.centerplacebrandon.org or call Cassie McClelland. “We as a collective just about my personal growth, but also focus can provide a space for all ages to 685-8888.
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April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
DANCING FOR DONATIONS OFFERS FREE DANCING CLASSES TO FOSTER CHILDREN
CEDARKIRK CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF FAITH BUILDING, GROWTH AND FUN By Taylor Wells Founded in the sumwith intellecmer of 1971, Cedarkirk, tual and dea local year-round velopmental Presbyterian camp and disabilities. The conference center, is programs have a celebrating its 50th anvariety of activniversary. It is a place ities, which can apart where individuals include Bible and groups can experistudy, worshipence spiritual growth ing together, and renewal as well as leadership trainfaith-building fun, woring, kayaking, ship and exciting accampfires, arts A father and daughter get geared up for a trip tivities in 170 acres of and crafts, field down the zip line. woodlands, wetlands and uplands. games, swimming, archery and more. “We see our mission as giving people Shick said that, as a former camper of a place where they can step out of the Cedarkirk, “I learned my faith at church, busyness and stress and the routines of but I learned to live it at Cedarkirk, and their everyday life and spend some time so I think, for me, one of the most special in the woods building community and things [about Cedarkirk] is finding out drawing close to God,” said Matthew how to put into practice what it is that Shick, executive director of Cedarkirk. we believe.” According to its website, “Our facilities He also thinks the camp is special beare used for retreats, meetings, confer- cause, as a camper, he lived alongside ences, leadership training, camping, out- others from an entirely different sociodoor experiences and more. We serve a economic bracket, letting him understand variety of church-related groups, fami- the differences in their lives, but also find ly reunions, public and private schools, many commonalities and connect with community service agencies and nonprof- them, and Shick is happy to see that play it organizations.” out every week at summer camp. Cedarkirk is open, but only for small For the future, Cedarkirk is campaigngroups, and it is requiring social distanc- ing to raise $4 million for a new office ing and masks when in groups, among wing, new residential building and new other safety procedures. Cedarkirk could dining hall, which will have more space not offer summer camp in 2020, but it is and better accessibility. glad to welcome guests back this year, Cedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetthough at 50 percent capacity. man Dr. in Lithia on the Alafia River. Call Cedarkirk has several camp programs 685-4224 or visit https://cedarkirk.org/, for different groups, including those in www.facebook.com/cedarkirk/ or www. first to 12th grade, families and adults instagram.com/cedarkirk/.
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By Libby Hopkins Dancing for Donafrom the group. “It tions has been a drivwas an honor and a ing force in the dance blessing to be selectcommunity in Brandon. ed by these wonderful The local nonprofit’s ladies,” Battaglia said. mission is to make “The money from this dance more available donation will go toto people of all ages wards the classes for and abilities in the foster care students as Tampa Bay area and well as other programs give back to the comI’d like to offer at munity. Dancing for Donations. Owner Sara BattaOur lease is also up in glia believes strongly a few months at our in making dance accescurrent location and sible for everyone in we will be using some the community. “Since of this donation to help things are starting to us secure a get back to normal in Dancing for Donations has new locabeen a driving force in the our community after tion in the COVID, I wanted to dance community in Brancommunity.” don. The local nonprofit’s start offering more Battaglia mission is to make dance classes and reaching more available to people of all ages and hopes she more children in our can offer more classabilities. community,” Battaglia es to foster children. said. “I wanted to offer some free dance “Dance, just like all forms of art, is exclasses to children in foster care.” tremely therapeutic,” Battaglia said. “I Battaglia reached out to the different want to be able to offer more dance profoster care programs in the community grams to all children and adults too. All of to see if there would be an interest in her our lives were turned upside down from offer. “I was absolutely shocked by how the recent pandemic and I want Dancing many foster care children wanted to take for Donations to be able to offer a place my classes,” Battaglia said. “I partnered for our community to come and feel good with Girls With Confidence and BFF Kidz again and feel great from dancing.” to help host the dance classes. We are To learn more about the classes offered looking to start offering the classes at at Dancing for Donations or to donate to the beginning of April.” the nonprofit, visit www.dancing4donaDancing for Donations was recently tions.org or call 601-3009. Dancing for selected by 100 Women Who Care Riv- Donations is located at 1076 E. Brandon erview/FishHawk to receive a donation Blvd., Ste. 101.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
LOCAL COMMUNITY TREASURES LEGEND TONY SALADINO By Libby Hopkins If you played baseball growing up in the ment of the educational environment and Brandon community, your life was likely youth sports. touched by Tony Saladino. He is a legend Dwight ‘Doc’ Gooden of Hillsborough when it comes High School was the to baseball in our tournament’s first most community for his valuable player. Since yearly baseball then, 38 players that tournament, the participated in the tourSaladino Tournament have gone on to nament. “My son play baseball in the major runs the tournaleagues. Twelve of these ment now, but I players were first-round still attend all the draft picks and countless games,” Saladino others have played basesaid. “It’s a beauball in the minor leagues tiful tournament, or college. and to see old Many of Saladino’s forfriends and meet mer students and players new ones. It’s still live in the Brandon just a good thing area and have fond memfor me to still be Coach Tony Saladino (left) is a legend in the ories of their time playing there.” baseball and playing in Brandon baseball community. He is known Saladino was for his great coaching and mentoring skills as the tournament. “Coach born in Ybor City. Saladino was an awewell as his love for his community. Many of He was a teach- his former players, like Mike Owen (right), are some coach and mentor,” er for 57 years in honored to call him their friend and mentor. said Michael Owen, one the Hillsborough County school system and of Saladino’s former players. “He is a kind he worked with the county’s Parks & Rec- and caring man who loves and supports our reation Department. “I love kids and I love community.” being at the ball field with them,” Saladino Due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, said. Saladino was the 2020 recipient of the the Saladino Tournament had to be canCivic Leadership Award from the Brandon celled last year. “Last year would have been Chamber of Commerce. our 40th year doing the tournament,” SalThe Saladino Tournament was established adino said. “I’m glad we can have the tourin 1981 as a memorial for Tony Saladino Sr. nament this year because it’s something the and to promote high school baseball in Hill- players and the baseball community look sborough County. The tournament started forward to each year, and so do I.” with 11 public schools and has grown into a The Tony Saladino Tournament will be 32-team event. held from Saturday to Wednesday, March In keeping with a consistent commit- 13-17. For more information on the tourment, the tournament always strives for nament, visit the tournament’s website at excellence through a continuous quest of www.tonysaladinobaseballtournament. contributing to the growth and develop- com.
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April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 41
BLOOMINGDALE BASEBALL HEAD COACH KRIS WILKEN ACHIEVES 200 CAREER WINS AT SCHOOL Bloomingdale Baseball Head Coach Kris Wilken reached a rare milestone in his 14th season, earning his 200th win as the Bulls’ head man. “I feel very thankful to the leaders of Bloomingdale High School for trusting me as the leader of a great program that was great long before me,” said Wilken. “I’m very thankful to have the amazing assistant coaches that have been doing this with me for so long. Most of all, I’m thankful Kris Wilken celebrates his 200th win with his wife, Katie, and their children, Brady and Presley. for every single player defense days,” said Lombard. “He that has come through the program. They won those games, not also works on all phases of the game in fundamentals in catching me.” Wilken has been an impressive leader at the ball, throwing and hitting. He the helm for Bloomingdale since he was is probably one of the best hitting hired in 2008. His team won the 2013 Sal- instructors I have been around.” Wilken relates well to his players, havadino Tournament, the 2018 8A-6 district championship and made a regional cham- ing been a very successful catcher for pionship/state final appearance in 2014. the University of Houston and as a prosThe state final appearance was the first in pect for the Baltimore Orioles. Many of his former players come back to join his the program’s history. Longtime Assistant Coach Frank Lom- coaching staff after their playing careers bard has been on Wilken’s coaching staff are over. Austin Wilson played for Wilken from the very beginning. He coached at from 2009-2012, and is now an assistant Brandon High School previously with Head for Bloomingdale after playing at Eastern Coach Greg Parris when Parris recorded Michigan University. “Kris is successful for multiple reasons, his 200th win in 2000. He witnessed Wilken record his 200th win on February 19— the first of which is that he knows what 21 years to the day that Parris reached the he’s talking about,” said Wilson. “He’s evolved with the times and changes in the same feat. “Kris is well organized in preparing prac- game, and works on his craft to be the best tice plans for each day, both offensive and he can be. The second, and arguably more
Kris Wilken celebrates with his players and coaching staff after the win. The Bulls defeated Plant City 2-0 for Kris Wilken’s 200th win.
valuable, characteristic is everyone wearing the Bloomingdale logo knows he cares about them as a person, student and baseball player. The family atmosphere he creates, you can’t fake.” Wilken, who is humbly quick to deflect the attention from himself to his players and coaching staff, remarked that he wouldn’t have been able to reach 200 wins without the great assistant coaches that are 100 percent committed to helping the players become better in every way possible. Tim Malloy is another assistant that has coached with Wilken over the years. “I’m humbled to be a part of Kris Wilken’s staff,” said Malloy. “People don’t excel by accident, and especially over long periods of time. His knowledge of the game, exceptional work ethic and approach make Kris the winner he strives to make of his players.”
Wilken is, first and foremost, a teacher and a mentor to his players. His main goal is to help his players move on to the next level in college. To date, four of his players have been selected in the MLB draft, including Baltimore Orioles shortstop Richie Martin. Countless players that have played for Wilken have gone on to play college baseball as well. “I’m looking forward to reaching the 100 players going on to play at the next level goal,” said Wilken. “We have got a ways to go still, but we are getting close.”
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
TAMPA THEATRE CONTINUES TRADITION OF OSCARS® WATCH PARTY Tampa Theatre will continue its tradi- popcorn, sparkling wine and signature tion of celebrating the annual viewing of cocktails for two, a pair of custom flutes the Academy Awards by offering both to toast your favorite nominees, balloons a virtual and in-person event. The 93rd and confetti, a miniature award statue, Academy Awards ceremony will take game cards to use during the livestream place on Sunday, April 25. pre-show and other red-carpet Jill Witecki with Tampa goodies. Boxes can be picked up Theatre said, “Nobody is between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on exactly sure yet what the Saturday, April 24 or Sunday, 93rd Academy Awards April 25. You can opt for VIP ceremony is going to look delivery on April 24, and your like, but Tampa Theatre is goodies will show up in a limousure of one thing: there is sine with a red-carpet photo op no way we are going to let for an additional $100. Please one of our favorite nights note, quantity is limited. of the year go by without a Virtual viewers can also get a party. Since not everyone three-course dinner courtesy of is comfortable walking the Salt Block Catering for $249 or red carpet quite yet, the The Tampa Theatre will $239 for members. majestic movie palace will offer its popular Red-CarIf you prefer to view the acbe offering both a virtual pet Fundraiser OSCARS® tion in person, Tampa Theatre Watch Party both virtually and live event.” will open its doors at 7:15 p.m. and in person on Sunday, Tampa Theatre will for the 22nd Annual OSCARS® April 25. livestream a VIP pre-show Watch Party. Patrons will be from its historic stage beginning at 6 treated to a glass of sparkling wine upon p.m. The hour-long program will feature arrival, and complimentary popcorn, soda games, movie trivia, special guest ap- and candy. A cash bar is also available. If pearances from Hollywood Awards Night you stay until the Best Picture statue is alumni, a virtual silent auction and live awarded, you will enjoy coffee and doughbidding on premium auction items. The nuts for the ride home. Tickets are $79 livestream will be free to watch at www. per person or $69 for members. Seating tampatheatre.org/redcarpet2021. is limited. Temperature checks, masks and To make your virtual watch party even social distancing will be required. more festive, you can pick up a PartyFor more information and to reserve tickat-Home pack at the Tampa Theatre for ets, visit https://tampatheatre.org/annu$79 or $69 for members. This includes al-event/hollywood-awards-night-2021/.
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Volume 20, Issue 4
KRAZY KUP EXHIBITS WINTHROP ARTS MOBILE FACTORY STUDENT ART The students ists and learn in the Winthrop the elements and Arts Mobile Art fundamentals of Factory in Plant art. City created anOne of those other beautiful students is Ronart piece that is aldo Perez, who on view at Krazy is 8 years old. Kup, located at Perez said, “I like 101 E. J. Arden the art piece. I Mays Blvd. in think it looks historic downawesome. I love Students in the Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory town Plant City. collaborated with Lead Art Instructor Bryant Martinez to go to art every The large and to create this beautiful art piece, which is now on view at week because Krazy Kup, located in historic downtown Plant City. colorful art piece Bryant is always was created by the students and Winthrop doing something fun with the stuff there. Arts Mobile Art Factory Lead Art Instruc- My mom said that the art was really amaztor Bryant Martinez. ing and she loved it.” To celebrate the newest exhibit, the stuAnnabel Saavedra is the community codents, parents, representatives from His- ordinator for Hispanic Services Council in panic Services Council, the Plant City Arts Plant City. Saavedra said, “Elementary stuCouncil and others attended an artists’ re- dents whose parents attend our program, ception at Krazy Kup on March 4. The art- La Red de Padres Activos, created the art. work is located in the outside courtyard. The reception was punctuated by an air Krazy Kup is owned and operated by of excitement as the kids presented their Wenda and Frank Trunzo. They have not very emotion-filled artwork.” only graciously allowed Winthrop Arts to Saavedra added, “Our alliance with the exhibit art, but they also host the artists’ Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory has reception. been an amazing one. There never fails to The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory be a week where the children are not giddy is a grant-funded outreach program that with excitement for the fun to begin. The provides free art instruction. Winthrop partnership is strong and we hope to preArts partners with other nonprofits such serve it..” as Hispanic Services Council. Children To learn more about Winthrop Arts, Hiswhose parents receive services from His- panic Services Council and Krazy Kup, visit panic Services Council attend the free art www.winthroparts.org, www.hispanicserclasses. They work with professional art- vicescouncil.org and www.krazykup.com.
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April 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
GENETIC TESTING RESULTS UNCOVER NEW FAMILY FOR ONE VALRICO RESIDENT By Hayley Fedor Valrico resident Dantle twists and turns in ielle Harris grew up in your upbringing and a household with her who your father is and mother, her brother and, donor,” said Harris. for the first couple years With the help of of her life, a father until 23andMe, Harris has his passing; however, this been able to conpicture is only the tip of nect with two of her the iceberg in her story. half-sisters that have Just a few short years the same donor and ago, Harris completed a the communication genetic testing kit from between them has 23andMe after being enbeen extraordinarily couraged by her brother, comfortable and natuFishHawk resident David ral from the get-go. Harris, and the results Harris has even had took her view of family the opportunity to and flipped it on its head. meet in person with The site linked her with Danielle Harris’ life changed forever af- two of them individubiological family she nev- ter the results of a 23andMe genetic test. ally. er knew she had, including “I would love for all four half-siblings. Even of us to get together more surprising, Harris’ at some point, that results indicated that the would be really cool,” brother she grew up with said one of Harris’s is only her half-brother on half-sisters. her mother’s side. Since taking the Receiving these results 23andMe genetic test, kindled a new curiosity in Harris about Harris and a few of her half-siblings have her DNA background, and after speak- been working with a genealogist to coning to her mother about the discovery, tinue putting together the puzzle pieces she learned that back in the 1970s, her of their ancestry. parents decided to use a sperm donor in “It just makes me think of my life diforder to conceive both she and her broth- ferently, so now I’m on a mission, so to er. Although her mother had little infor- speak, to find out what the other half of mation on the donor, she did share that my identity is; who am I?” said Harris. the artificial insemination was completed In the near future, Harris and her through a medical clinic in Miami. half-siblings hope to be able to coordinate “You grow up thinking one way and then a big family vacation where they can get it’s a whole, like, wait a minute, there’s lit- to know each other even better.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 4
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