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October 2020 Volume 15, Issue 10 Ph: 657-2418 1 8
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Hillsborough County Aging Services Honors Iva Bell’s 109th Birthday
By Tatiana Ortiz
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A parade of nearServices Program for ly 20 vehicles filled the Hillsborough County street of Brandon resiAging Services, Anika dent Iva Bell’s home Coney, shared her to celebrate her 109th thoughts about National birthday on Adult Day Services September 21. Staff Week. from the Hillsborough “This would be an County Adult Day opportunity to highlight Service Center drove our programs and servby with well-wishes ices that we provide to and signs as Bell our clients and carewaved outside her givers,” Coney said. home with her daughIn order to continue ter, Gloria Bell serving its clients and Osgood. The celebracaregivers during the tion also kicked off pandemic, the group Gloria Bell Osgood and her mother, implemented adjustNational Adult Day Iva Bell, attend Bell’s 109th birthday Services Week. ments, including staffcelebration with the Hillsborough Bell, who was offered programs three County Aging Services. born in 1911, has times a week by seen a lot of phone with healthchanges in care tips, trivia, supBrandon. She port and more. moved to the area Senior Case in the 1920s and Manager for worked at the Hav-A-Tampa cigar factory Hillsborough County George Paulose has located in Ybor City. worked with Bell for several years. He Later, Bell and her husband owned believes that Bell is a very strong-minded and operated Bell’s Grocery during the person who always thinks positively. 1940s and 1950s. The store was located Paulose also feels that Osgood is a at the corner of Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and wonderful caregiver to her mother. Bell U.S. Hwy. 60 until the highway expanded receives a variety of supplies such as into four lanes. Her husband passed Ensure, meals and much more from the away in 1984 at the age of 84. county. In 2011, Bell joined the Hillsborough “Overall, all of the staff members at County Adult Day Service Center. She is the Hillsborough County Bloomingdale currently the oldest member of the center. Adult Day Service Center are very caring Due to the current pandemic, all four of for your loved ones,” Osgood said. the county’s locations are closed, but the For more information, visit group came together to celebrate Bell www.hcflgov.net/aging. Staff are availand others in National Adult Day Services able Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–5 Week. p.m. and the Aging Services Customer The manager of the Adult Day Care Team can be reached at 272-5250.
TBD@301 (Tea, Bowls and Desserts) recently celebrated its two-year anniversary with a taste sampling of its brand-new fall flavor herbal tea, cinnamon apricot toffee as well as its famous lumpia. TBD@301 is located at 3840 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview in the plaza off U.S. Hwy. 301 S. and Falkenburg Rd. It is open from Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m.7 p.m. For more information, visit www.tbdcafe.com or call the cafe directly at 420-0013.
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Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Finds Innovative Way To Open Two New Fire Stations
By Kate Quesada
Hillsborough company, a rescue County Fire Rescue crew and a tanker (HCFR) dispatched crew. It also has four 66 new fire rescue new apparatus, personnel into the including a ladder Brandon and truck, an engine, a SouthShore areas rescue truck and a last month, along with tanker. The personnel seven additional will serve from nearby apparatus and a new fire stations until a fire inspector. temporary building What’s different can be set up on-site about this deployment early next year. is that the fire stations “Because the that will house the area is still growing, personnel and appafire rescue also is ratus are still under adding an additional construction, so the inspector to the staff,” crews will serve from said Wilkerson. nearby stations until This unique Sixty-six new fire rescue personal have construction is comapproach to adding been dispatched to local fire stations in plete. preparation for the opening of new sta- service for residents tions in Brandon & Riverview next year. is happening because The physical buildings for Stations 45 and 46 are the Hillsborough County Administration scheduled to be complete in the fourth saw the need for coverage in fast-growquarter of 2021, and the crews will have ing areas of the county, and the Board of temporary facilities on the sites in the County Commissioners approved the fornext several months. ward-thinking plan to get fire rescue staff “The additional personnel in the in the areas of need as soon as possible. Brandon and Riverview areas will help To learn more, visit www.hillsborlower response times in these fast-growoughcounty.org. ing communities,” said Hillsborough County’s Chris Wilkerson. “The county’s master plan calls for 24 more fire staIn This tions, and the two that went into operaIssue tion today are the first two of the group.” The crews work 24-hour shifts and are on rotation every third day. The new Station 45 is under construction in Brandon at 1209 Oakfield Dr. That station has 24 personnel, including a battalion chief, an engine company and an ambulance rescue crew. It also has three new apparatus, including a battalion chief vehicle, an engine and a rescue vehicle. This new station will be operating out of a temporary building around the Section 2 corner at 307 Pauls Dr. later this year. The new Station 46 is under conREAD MORE LOCAL NEWS struction in Riverview at 10751 Rhodine ONLINE Rd. That station has 42 personnel, www.ospreyobserver.com including a truck company, an engine
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
October 2020
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Bikes For Christ Launches New Retail Program In Collaboration With Lighthouse Ministries
Fourth Grade Math And Science Teacher Wins Extra Yard For Teachers Award
Bikes For Christ because of everyone has just launched a “being safe at home,” new retail program in people rediscovered partnership with their love of cycling, Lighthouse Ministries causing a huge shortat its Brandon store age of bicycles location. This initiative nationwide. Bikes For will act as its ‘social Christ was able to enterprise’ program, overcome the adverwhich is a term nonsity of not being able profits use when they to fundraise the tradiadd a way of genertional way by creatKyle Bridges, Lighthouse Ministries Brandon manager, and Pat Simmons, ing its own way to ating income to help Bikes For Christ founder, standing in support their overfront of the bicycles and banner display. generate capital. head. Bikes For Simmons knew Christ will be selling some of its nicest that Bikes For Christ had to have a retail and higher-end bicycles so it can contin- storefront to be able to accomplish this, ue to serve the low-income population in so he reached out to Lighthouse our community. Ministries Brandon Manager Kyle Bikes For Christ currently partners Bridges, and within a day an agreement with over 50 organizations in the Tampa was in place. Bridges, also an avid Bay area by supplying bicycles as trans- cyclist, stated, “From our side of this, we portation to the clients that these agenare just happy to be partnering with cies work with. Its main focuses are vetanother ministry committed to helping erans trying to overcome hardships, those at risk in our community while underprivileged children and anyone communicating the gospel. It takes the who is in need and is trying to climb out entire body of Christ to accomplish the of the grips of poverty or the situation mission He has set us on. We at they are in. Along with every bike it gives Lighthouse appreciate the opportunity to out, it also provides a Gospel of John, as do our part alongside Bikes For Christ it wants that individual to know that as co-laborers for the love of people and Christ cares for and loves them. for God’s glory.” Simmons added, “We Bikes For Christ Founder Pat look forward to a long-term partnership Simmons said that it “had been trying to with Lighthouse Ministries that will help come up with a way to raise more funds us accomplish so much more with our for a long time.” With the impact of life-changing bicycles.” COVID-19, two things occurred that Lighthouse Ministries’ Brandon retail meant the time had arrived. First, all store is located at 535 E. Brandon Blvd. public events were shut down, meaning Visit Bikes For Christ’s website at fundraisers were cancelled. Secondly, www.Bikes4Christ.com.
The University of The $1,000 from South Florida Athletics the award granted department made a Harwood funds to purspecial appearance chase items for her inside Miranda classroom as well as Harwood’s classroom other teachers on her on September 11. team. She purchased While the Brooker multiplication game Elementary School sets, a moving light-up teacher was instructmodel of the solar sysMiranda Harwood, a Brooker ing her eLearning tem and much more. Elementary School teacher, recently Zoom class, she was Hillsborough received a custom University of South Florida Bulls football jersey County School Board presented with the and $1,000 through the Extra Yard Chairwoman Melissa Extra Yard for for Teachers Award. Teachers Award and Snively shared how $1,000 from the University of South Harwood’s efforts tied into her winning Florida. She was also given a custom this award. University of South Florida Bulls football “Harwood’s dedicated work and jersey. On Friday, October 23, Harwood well-deserved recognition made her an will be recognized at the University of outstanding candidate for her to be South Florida vs. Tulsa football game at selected the Extra Yard for Teachers Raymond James Stadium. Award,” Snively said. Harwood, who was also named In 2014, the College Football Playoff Hillsborough County Teacher of the Year (CFP) Foundation, which presents the recently, was thrilled to receive this Extra Yard for Teachers Award, was award. established. The main purpose of the “I also am a huge football fan, so foundation is to support PK-12 education getting the award from the athletics across the country with the award as a department and having it delivered by way to show commitment to elevating the University of South Florida’s cheerthe teaching profession through empowleaders was the cherry on top,” Harwood erment and inspiration within the four said. core values of professional developHarwood, who teaches fourth grade ment, resources, recruitment and retenmath and science, graduated from the tion and recognition. University of South Florida. She earned For more information about the CFP two degrees, a bachelor’s degree in ele- Foundation, visit https://cfpmentary education and a master’s foundation.org. Brooker Elementary degree in reading education. School is located at 812 Dewolf Rd. in “I am a University of South Florida Brandon and can be reached at 744Bull at heart,” she said. 8184.
Staff Report
By Tatiana Ortiz
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
Campo Y Employee Makes An Impact On The Community With 25-Year Committment
By Libby Hopkins
Bill Johnson has years old and went to the been part of the YMCA North Brandon Y to play family for 25 years. He basketball,” Hincman said. has inspired everyone “I played season after who has had him as a season and continued to coach and has worked have a relationship with with him during his time. Bill. I wanted to go to the “I can’t imagine our Y because of Bill, not just youth basketball program because of basketball. He without Bill,” said Campo invested in me as a playY Executive Director er. He wanted to help me Jarrod Williams. “Over improve and become betthe years, Bill has impactter, which made me want ed the lives of thousands to come to the Y more Bill Johnson has been working of kids in our community. with the YMCA for 25 years. He and more.” His passion for the game loves what he does and he has Johnson continued made an impact on the lives of investing in Hincman as a and developing youth is his students and his coworkers. one of the main reasons player all the way through our program has been successful.” high school. Williams feels it is more than his love “He made it a point to always ask for of sports that sets Johnson apart. my game schedules and would make it “You just don’t find people like that out to the home games,” she said. “After anymore,” he explained. “He understands high school, I left for college and came the mission of our Y and our program and back to town periodically. When I did, I he embodies it at every game and every always made it a point to stop by the Y to practice. He works at the Y for the kids, see Bill.” the parents, the staff and the community. Johnson isn’t an employee at the Y, The impact he leaves on just about every he’s part of the Y family. child in our program is immeasurable. As “The thing I enjoy most about workthese kids grow up and play middle ing at the Y is that I am in a diverse school ball, high school ball, college ball atmosphere, just as the way things were or even the few professional basketball when I was in the military,” Johnson said. players that have come through our Y, “Having the opportunity to interact with they won’t necessarily remember our Y, people from all walks of life is what I conor their coach, but they remember Mr. sider to be an opportunity of a lifetime.” Bill.” To learn more about the programs Senior Program Director Kaliegh offered at Campo Y, visit www.tampaymHincman at Campo Y has many fond ca.org/locations/campo-family-ymca. memories of Johnson. Campo Y is located at 3414 Culbreath “I met Bill back in 1996 when I was 9 Rd. in Valrico.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
ACS Encourages Health And Fundraising During Pandemic
Staff Report
The American and mammograms, which Cancer Society (ACS) have seen an alarming continues to infuse enerdecline because of the gy into its annual Relay pandemic. A National For Life campaigns, even Cancer Institute study though the pandemic revealed that there may forced the suspension of be 20,000 more colorectal its 2020 relays last spring. and breast cancer-related “We certainly are deaths beginning in 2021 back in the swing of because the medical comthings as we follow the munity is losing the school calendar and build advantage of early detecexcitement for Relay,” tion. said ACS Senior “We’re seeing now Local American Cancer Society Community Development volunteers are working hard to that some of those numManager Tammy bers are rebounding, and raise funds and awareness during the pandemic despite people are able to return Schoonover. “Cancer not being able to hold their hasn’t stopped and neitraditional fundraisers, such as to screening in some ther have our Relay For places,” said ACS Senior Relay for Life. Life supporters.” Vice President for Prevention ACS is squarely focused on raising Laura Makaroff. “We don’t want people to funds for life-saving research that leads to forget about the importance of their cannew breakthrough treatments and cer screenings. How to do that in this time improved cures. Because of the pandem- is something you really need to talk to ic, 2020 funding may be reduced by 50 your healthcare provider about.” percent, which would represent the lowAdvocacy and awareness are just est level this century for ACS, the nation’s two more reasons ACS needs to continue leading private nonprofit funder of cancer garnering community support. While research. details for upcoming Relays For Life, “We’re depending on our supporters such as the 2021 FishHawk Relay For to help us change that,” Schoonover said. Life, remain in development, volunteers “So, during this time, we are still moving still can get involved by starting a team or the mission forward by recruiting/securing hosting a ‘Share the Light’ night in their teams and volunteers to continue funding own community. the mission.” To register and start fundraising, ACS also continues its advocacy please go to www.relayforlife.org/fishwork, lending support to patients who are hawkfl. Contact Schoonover at 815-590enduring a cancer journey while dealing 2961 or tammy.schoonover@cancer.org, with COVID-19. It’s also raising awareor Event Lead Leslie Adams at 404-0212 ness about the importance of screening or ladams6@ymail.com.
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Volume 15, Issue 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Local Halloween Events Offer A Hint Of Surprises & Scares For Everyone
By Tatiana Ortiz
Fall might seem slightly different this year as some make adjustments for COVID-19, but many local events are still taking place to allow residents to get into the Halloween spirit.
ZooTampa’s Creatures Of The Night
The return of Tampa Bay’s number one Halloween event, Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa, will take place for 11 select nights and times starting on Friday, October 2. Join this year’s newest Arachne the Spider Queen as she invites guest to enter into her world of webs consisting of outdoor unforgettable eerie frights and more. The theme for this family-friendly event is around campfire tales and more. Prices for admission vary. For more information, visit https://zootampa.org/events/. It is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. in Tampa. Call 9358552.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-OScream, The Fear Is In Your Eyes Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will be hosting its 21st annual premier Halloween event, Howl-O-Scream, during 18 nights every Friday through Sunday from September 25- November 1. Physically distant frights will offer safe, ghoulish delight within its 335-acre park as guests will experience heart-pounding, unexpected fears and open-air scare zones.
Guests can also ride their favorite roller coasters in the dark or watch the Fiends Show, which stars Dr. Frankenstein and his frightful entourage. Times and prices for admission vary. For more information, visit https://buschgardens.com/tampa/events/h owl-o-scream/reservations/. It is located at 10165 N. McKinley Dr. in Tampa. Call 884-4386.
Lighted Halloween Boat Parade
National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (NPCF), in partnership with Friends of the Riverwalk, will be presenting Tampa Bay’s first Halloween Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, October 24, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Individuals will get to see numerous boats decorated with lights in a fun Halloween theme as well as crews in costumes all parading along the Tampa Bay area. Attendees can view this boat parade by land or water. Proceeds from the event will go towards the NPCF to raise awareness and funds to find a cure for pediatric cancer. Those who participate in the parade will automatically be registered for its Compete for the Best Boat competition. For more information, visit https://nationalpcf.org/1st-annual-lightedhalloween-boat-parade/.
Heroes Paradise: A Nightmare On Knowles
A special Halloween event fun for all ages, the first annual Nightmare On Knowles event, will be coming to Heroes Paradise from Thursday to Sunday, October 22-October 25 and October 29November 1. In order to better serve those in attendance, residents are asked to RSVP. Make sure to visit https://heroesparadise.com, its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HeroesParadis e/ and its Instagram page @heroesparadisebrandon for updates. Heroes Paradise is located at 733 Knowles Rd. in Brandon. Call 833-543-7637 to learn more.
UNDead In The Water At The American Victory Ship & Museum
Visit Tampa’s only authentic nautical haunted attraction, UNDead in the Water, at the American Victory Ship & Museum starting on Friday, October 2 at 7:30 p.m. Move through multiple decks of the historical World War II cargo ship with a blacklight flashlight and avoiding being eaten by infected zombies while the Ripper Squad Decontamination Crew fights for humanity’s survival. Admission prices vary. For more information, visit
www.undeadinthewater.com. It is located at 705 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. Call 228-8766.
Drive-Thru Trunk-Or-Treat
Check out FishHawk Fellowship Church’s DriveThru Trunk-orTreat on Wednesday, October 28, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bring your family to this fun free event. An array of foods and other activities will be available. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/events/3832547564 06181. It is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. Call 655-7431.
Haunted River Tours With The Pirate Water Taxi
Sail along the Hillsborough River inside the Pirate Water Taxi’s Haunted River Tours to hear the tales of ghosts and more on select nights beginning on Friday, October 2 at 6:15 p.m. The tours will take place aboard Captain Jack II. This family-friendly adventure welcomes all ages. Tickets start at $25. For more information, visit www.piratewatertaxi.com/events/haunted-river-tour/. Call 223-7999.
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October 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Brandon Lions Club Sells Luminaria Kits To Support Local Charities
Staff Report
Brandon area resiBrandon or will be dents have the oppordelivered (orders of 15 tunity to help others kits or more) on and spread light next Saturday, December month thanks to the 19. Brandon Lions Club. According to Until Monday, Kuebler, the fundraiser November 9, residents has been taking place throughout the annually since 2002. Brandon area can purFor 5 years, the chase a Luminaria Kit HOA in Parkside to raise funds for local Village in Lithia has charities supported by purchased enough the Lions. Luminaria kits to light a “Our Luminaria path through the comKits are constructed munity on Christmas with white paper bags Eve. “This has become weighted down with a favorite community sand and illuminated tradition,” said HOA from within by a canboard member Marie The Brandon Lions Club is selling Gilmore. dle,” said Brandon Luminaria Kits to benefit local Lions Club Treasurer Proceeds benefit charities this month. Joe Kuebler. “They Brandon Lions are traditionally disCharities, a not-forplayed on Christmas profit 501(c)(3) organEve.” ization that has been According to supporting the club’s Kuebler, each kit eyesight and hearing contains 15 longprograms, burning votive canSoutheastern Guide dles, 15 candle holdDogs, Greater Tampa ers, 15 white bags Lions Sight Fund, and a plastic bag of ECHO, Family sand (to use in the base of each bag). Promise, The Outreach Clinic, Brandon Kits are $6.50 and orders of over High School Don Bishop Track Meet, 15 kits will be delivered locally. No pay- Brandon Area Youth Soccer and other ment is required with your order. All local area needs since 1954. orders are COD (cash on delivery) and Contact Kuebler at 263-2522 to can be picked up at the Brandon Lions place an order or email brandonlionClub located at 610 Limona Rd. in sclub@gmail.com.
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Volume 15, Issue 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Multifamily Projects Target SE. Hillsborough County With 17 Sites & More Than 4,400 Units It has been widely reported that on average, 950 people move to Florida every day. With demand for housing continuing at this rapid pace, it is inevitable we would see a corresponding increase in the supply of residential units in our area. Unfortunately, the amount of land available that has access to county water and sewer systems is beginning to dwindle, causing developers to look outside of this area—called the Urban Service Area—for alternate project sites. County leaders, wanting to help curb the urban sprawl that accompanies building outside of the area, have been encouraging urban infill projects. ‘Urban infill’ implies that existing land is mostly built-out and what is being built is in effect ‘filling in’ the gaps. Most of these sites are 20 acres or less, thus creating smaller neighborhoods with typically higher densities (more homes per acre). A perfect example of this was the Ace Golf Range on Kings Ave. near the intersection of Lumsden Rd. and Kings Ave. The project now under construction is called Ironwood Flats and is approved for 333 units on the former driving range property. Depending on the underlying or future zoning of the land, multifamily projects (apartments and townhomes) have become a means of providing more affordable housing options at usually, but not always, a lower price point than your standard single-family home. Additionally, with an increase in residents, an increase in multifamily elderly care facilities should also be expected to meet demand. “As Florida’s population continues to grow and attract more residents, the real estate market has – in my estimation – expanded to meet the needs of all families relocating to our great county. In the past, much of the development in southeastern Hillsborough has been solely single-family homes, but the over the last few years it’s become evident the demand for multifamily units is getting higher,” said Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy White. “Historically, the expectation is that multi-family goes in the dense urban core, but with growth – including jobs – reaching into our more traditional suburban and rural regions, the need for that type of housing has emerged and I’m glad to see the needs of all our new residents being
By Brian Bokor
Many multifamily home projects are scheduled for construction in the Brandon area.
met by the development community.” The depicted graphic was created to give readers a visual representation of the areas where new multifamily projects have been proposed, approved or allowed under current zoning. Readers who would like to see the physical addresses for each of these projects can visit www.ospreyobserver.com to find this information. Three of these projects—Brandon Main Street, Sentosa Riverview and Southbend (part of Southshore Commons)—are planned to be developed as ‘mixed-use,’ where several different uses are utilized within the same neighborhood. Winthrop on Bloomingdale Ave. is a prime example of this concept where residential, retail and commercial spaces all coexist within the same development. The Brandon Main Street project has been in various stages of planning since 2001 and even has its own community plan available online at www.planhillsborough.org. Most recent plans call for 421 multifamily units to be accompanied by 18,640 sq. ft. of commercial space in phase one, including a 6,000 sq. ft. office/retail building along with a 2,000 sq. ft. food
hall and large, 1-acre park. Two mixed-use buildings will also be available for nonresidential uses. Phase two will add another 239 units and 56,360 sq. ft. of commercial space for total of 660 apartments and 75,000 sq. ft. of commercial space. Sentosa Riverview will offer 368 luxury-style apartments, including up to 150,000 sq. ft. office, retail and commercial space. Currently, there are five 1-acre out-parcels available for sale as well as ongoing negotiations with major national restaurants and retailers. The self-storage facility that was included in the original plans will
not be part of the final project. The Valrico retirement residence currently under construction that most of us pass at the intersection of Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and Valrico Rd. will not be an assisted living facility as originally reported but will be considered an ‘independent’ living facility without access to on-site medical or nursing care and will offer 136 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom residential units while employing a staff of four. On the other hand, the Meridian at Brandon will be a traditional assisted living facility offering 111 beds of assisted living with 38 beds dedicated to memory care. This project will employ up to 25 people. The proposed Mathog Rd. project has submitted dual uses, one being a senior housing option and the other a standard apartment proposal. Sixty-six townhomes were proposed at the location west of the Bloomingdale Walmart adjacent to the library, and although that request has been withdrawn, the parcel is approved for up to 261 units. Fifty49 Bell Shoals, the 166bed assisted living facility planned for Bell Shoals at the old St. Stephen Church location has been put on hold until the Bell Shoals widening project has been completed. Mathog Rd. (20-0808) and Knowles Rd. (20-1264) have yet to have their rezoning requests approved. All other projects listed on the map have been approved and are in the final stages of construction plan review or have cleared all necessary steps and are ready to be built, with the exception of Tapestry Town Center in Brandon, which is now actively leasing. Last December, commissioners put a 270-day moratorium on rezoning in South County, however, this does not stop permitting for previously rezoned property.
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October 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Heifer Alternative Gift Market Goes Virtual
Staff Report
Valrico area resi“Previously, the Heifer dents are working hard Market had booths, to help others around sponsored by members the world, despite the and ministry teams. This pandemic. Among year, the teams have them is First creatively recorded Presbyterian Church of some fun facts about Brandon, which is hosttheir animals and you ing a virtual auction will be able to view them from Sunday, October on our Facebook 25 to Sunday, page…throughout the November 1 to raise month of October.” funds for Heifer To add to the fun, First Presbyterian Church of Brandon is hosting a virtual auction on October 25, the International, a nonfrom October 25 to November 1 to church will kick off the profit working to end raise funds for Heifer International, hunger by providing a nonprofit that works to end hunger events with a Heifer by providing sustainable support sustainable support Harvest Hoedown right through animals and education. through animals and in the church parking lot. education. “Families can put the kids in the car “The church has been supporting and drive alongside the sidewalk in front Heifer International since 1999,” said of the church,” Trattner explained. “There Dawn Trattner of the church. “The panwill be several stops where you will pick demic is not going to stand in our way.” up some fun goodies and play games To keep residents safe, the market without ever leaving the safety of your will now be virtual with a silent auction car.” and teams from the church will be highHeifer International provides livelighting animals that can be sponsored in stock, agricultural items and the educamini commercials online throughout the tional tools to enable families to become month to educate people how a gift of a self-reliant. duck or a water buffalo can really make a “A kid can change the world. And this difference. is really what it’s all about and what we’re “We have lots of great gift baskets all about—ending hunger,” said Trattner. and gift cards from local merchants who “Together, we can do it, and we want you are helping to support the efforts to help to join us in that fight and ultimately in that end hunger and poverty through a silent victory.” auction,” said Trattner. The link to the event can be found at The auction will be held on the https://fpcbrandon.org/events/heifer-virtu32auctions website, where residents will al-auction/. be able to bid on silent auction items, with To find out more about Heifer all proceeds going to Heifer International. International, visit https://www.heifer.org/. “Education is a cornerstone to To contact the church, located at 121 Heifer’s mission,” said Trattner. Carver Ave. in Brandon, call 689-6849.
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Volume 15, Issue 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Gastroenterology Center Of Tampa Bay Opens In Brandon With Same-Day & Telehealth Appts
By Michelle Caceres
In an effort to Dr. Dedania is better serve its passionate about propatients in Eastern viding patients with Hillsborough county, quality medical and Gastroenterology preventative care. Center of Tampa “Digestive health, Bay, a part of Florida including finding the Digestive Health time to schedule preSpecialists, has ventative tests, is vitalopened a new office ly important,” he said. in Brandon. The Center for Gastroenterology Center of Tampa Bay, The new site, Disease Control and a part of Florida Digestive Health located at 602 Prevention (CDC) recSpecialists, has opened in Brandon Vonderburg Dr., Ste. with Dr. Bhavtosh Dedania at the helm. ommends regular 101 in the Brandon Oaks Medical Center, screening, beginning at age 50, as the complements existing offices throughout key to preventing colorectal cancer. Florida. Gastroenterology Center of Tampa The new facility is home to boardBay’s office hours are Monday-Friday, 8 certified physician Dr. Bhavtosh Dedania, a.m.-5 p.m. Same-day or next-day who, in addition to treating comprehenappointments are available, as well as sive digestive disorders and performing telehealth appointments, making it easy routine endoscopies and colonoscopies, and safe for patients to speak to a healthis also skilled at advanced procedures, care provider from home. including endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), “Some digestive diseases can be radiofrequency ablation (RFA), endoscop- sudden and really hinder a patient’s qualiic retrograde cholangiopancreatography ty of life, so we understand the impor(ERCP) and endoscopic mucosal resectance of wanting to get an appointment tion (EMR), a surgery that removes early- quickly,” said Dr. Dedania. stage cancer and precancerous growths Whichever visit is scheduled, from the lining of the digestive tract. Dedania and his staff are ready to provide “While most physicians have to refer his patients with the most comprehensive patients to specialized facilities for these quality of gastroenterology care. advanced procedures, we offer the latest “I look forward to caring for patients in techniques and treatments all under one the Tampa Bay area and helping them medical group,” said Dr. Dedania. with common to complex GI and liver The physicians at Florida Digestive issues,” said Dr. Dedania. Health Specialists strive to provide comMost major insurance plans are passionate care for gastroenterology accepted. To schedule an appointment, issues such as Crohn’s, acid reflux, colivisit www.fdhs.com/brandon or call 685tis, hemorrhoids, constipation and more. 5500.
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Page 11
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Bloomingdale High Teens, Friends Since Middle School, Become National Merit Finalists
By Libby Hopkins
Mathematics can abilities, skills and be a difficult subject accomplishments. for some students, This is a notable but it seems to come academic honor to Jude Delikat (17), dating back to Joseph Neidig (17) 1955. and Trey Hydock (18) Jude is with ease. All three involved in various teens are students at clubs at school Bloomingdale High and plays varsity School, and all three lacrosse. are National Merit “He is the Scholar president of a From left to right: Joseph Neidig, Jude nonprofit called Semifinalists. Delikat and Trey Hydock have “Bloomingdale JD Global competed on the same math team together since sixth grade at Burns High has three Foundation, Inc., Middle School. Now, all three teens are which serves the National Merit seniors at Bloomingdale High School, Semifinalists for the and all three are National Merit Scholar underprivileged Semifinalists. class of 2021,” said locally and globalJude’s mother, Jemy ly,” Jemy said. Delikat. “Jude is very “Bloomingdale High honored to School is the only receive this school in the award and is Brandon/Valrico/Lithia excited about the area to have students opportunities it as National Merit presents. He Semifinalists this hopes to attend year. An interesting coincidence is the honors program at either the that these three students were comUniversity of Florida or at the peting on the same math team University of South Florida while together since sixth grade at Burns studying pre-medicine and business.” Middle School. It is amazing to think Neidig intends to study computer that they will continue to grow in acascience at the University of Central demic strength and receive this honor Florida. He is excited about receiving together.” this honor and hopes to make it to The National Merit Scholarship finalist standing with an opportunity to Program is an academic scholarship be awarded the State of Florida competition in the United States recBenacquisto Scholarship. ognizing top students. National Merit Hydock is very excited about this Scholar Semifinalists are picked from honor as it opens numerous opportueach state based on PSAT scores nities for college and scholarships earned in their junior year of high and will certainly be helpful in the school. Less than one percent of application process. Hydock would entrants become semifinalists nationlike to attend Vanderbilt University in ally. In February 2021, the vast major- Nashville, Tennessee and double ity of these students who meet acamajor in music and English with a demic and other requirements minor in philosophy. become finalists and may receive Congratulations to these stellar scholarships as well based on their seniors at Bloomingdale High School.
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Page 12
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
October 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
d e m a N e r a C es y i a n B a p m o C 0 5 p , e To r a C t Tha ...More Market
especially hard during this pandemic,” said Owner Jim Potesta. “We are honored to have a partner like Feeding Tampa Bay to help raise funds and awareness.” “We know that more tt meals helps deliver bete n en Jenny B com y b ter health for those in d e Compil preyobserver. s need,” he said. To date, o @ jbennett Orangetheory has raised $12,500, which in turn provides 125,000 meals for those who struggle with food insecurity.
Tampa Bay Network To End Hunger Announces Virtual Conference
In the United States, 54 million people may struggle to put food on the table this year due to COVID-19. On Thursday and Friday, October 29-30, the 2020 Sunshine Summit to End Hunger, presented by the Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger, in partnership with Bread for the World and Florida Impact to End Hunger, will be hosted virtually for the first time ever. This year’s theme is ‘Global Effects of COVID-19 on Food Systems and Local Effects on Emergency Feeding.’ The forum will provide organizers and the broader anti-hunger community a place to learn, share and network while exploring the best practices in solving hunger.
Orangetheory Fitness Donates To Feeding Tampa Bay
Orangetheory Fitness was proud to stand with Feeding Tampa Bay during September for Hunger Action Month. “We know a lot of individuals have been hit
Abide Church Fall Market
Abide Church, situated at 6420 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia, will be having a fall market on Saturday, October 24 from 9 a.m.3 p.m. Items for sale will include art, jewelry, crafts, baked goods, activities for kids and other food items. Vendor spots are still available. Please contact Stephanie Kaye on 3891981 for more details.
United Methodist Women Celebrate 50 Years Of Providing Pecans
The United Methodist Women of New Hope United Methodist Church are celebrating their 50th year of providing the best, just-picked-and-shelled, freshfrom-the-grower pecans. In the last 25 years, they have donated over $400,000 to local and international missions, including ECHO, Metropolitan Ministries, Mary & Martha House and many others. Along with pecans, the specialty items available include chocolate
amaretto pecans, praline pecans and assortment tins. You can order in three ways from Thursday, October 1 to Sunday, November 1. Visit www.pecansale.com, email bjbrooks5@gmail.com or call Mary Baker between 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on 643-4493. Pickup will be on Saturday and Monday, November 14 and 16, from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. at the New Hope Life Center on N. Knights Ave. in Brandon.
BayCare Named One Of 50 Companies That Care
BayCare Health Systems has been named one of the top companies in the United States by Great Place To Work and People for supporting team members and the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I am proud of how our team members have stepped up and served our community during COVID-19 and it’s wonderful to see others recognize their effort too,” said Tommy Inzina, president and CEO of BayCare. “We have strived from the start of this pandemic to protect the health and safety of our patients, team members, physicians and our community.” BayCare was one of the first health systems in West Central Florida to launch multiple drive-through testing sites across the region and worked with local health leaders and government officials to address the impact of the virus on longterm care facilities.
Celebrating The Signing Of The U.S. Constitution
Local attorney Ashley Ivanov spoke this month about the United States Constitution to fourth grade students at Bell Shoals Baptist Academy. This lecture was in celebration and commemoration of the signing of the United States Constitution 233 years ago on September 17, 1787. The students are learning about the Constitutional Convention, our Founding Fathers, the Bill of Rights and the three branches of our government. “I was impressed by the students’ knowledge and desire to learn and know more about how our government functions,” commented Ivanov. Each student was provided with a copy of the United States Constitution and Declaration of Independence.
Page 13
Local Sailor Brandin Kinslow takes the E-5 Navy wide advancement exam while serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman.
Bloomingdale Survivor’s Mother Shares Inspirational Memoir
Twelve years ago, Vanna Nguyen received a phone call that no mother wants to receive. Her daughter, Queena, had been attacked while returning library books outside of the Bloomingdale library. Through years of care, therapy and love, Queena and Vanna continue to share a special bond. Vanna wrote The Life She Once Knew: The Incredible Story Of Queena, the Bloomingdale Library Attack Survivor to share their inspirational story. To celebrate the book’s release in November, the community is invited to a special reveal party and fundraising event on Saturday, October 24 from 3-6 p.m. at the GFWC Tampa Woman’s Club on 2901 Bayshore Blvd. in Tampa. To register, visit www.joinqueena.com/fundraisers/, where tickets for the event can be purchased.
Durant Baseball’s 7th Annual Cougar Clay Shoot
Come out to the seventh annual Cougar Clay Shoot Fundraiser, supporting Durant High School’s baseball team, on Saturday, November 14 at FishHawk Sporting Clays. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the shoot begins at 10 a.m. The prices are $65 per person or $240 per foursome and include 50 clay targets for each person and lunch. Guns and shells are available to rent on the day of the event, no experience needed. There will be a 50/50 raffle and lots of items to win via the raffle or a silent auction. For more information, email dhscougarsbaseball@gmail.com or call Laurie Allen at 404-9134. FishHawk Sporting Clays is located at 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia.
Page 14
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
October 2020
Page 15
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Facing Bankruptcy? Know The Options? Ryan Law Firm, P.A. Offers Expertise
By Michelle Caceres
Like the devastation Just as hurricane created from the damagdamage can vary from ing winds and rain of a town to town, so too can hurricane, the coronthe cleanup process. avirus is tearing through Because no two bankmost sectors of the ruptcy cases are the American economy, leavsame, a good bankrupting a path of destruction cy attorney can help taiin its wake. Individuals lor a plan for each have lost jobs, businessclient’s needs. es have lost revenue and “Everybody’s finandebts are mounting. cial situation is different Many individuals, families and it is up to me to anaD. Jean Ryan at Ryan Law and businesses are lyze your finances and Firm, P.A. can help you or your unsure of how to begin business find relief from debt advise you about the best and insolvency during the cleaning up the mess. solution for you,” she said. coronavirus pandemic. Because bankruptcy “Just because someone can be a difficult process to navigate, its you know discharged a half a million doloften best to hire an attorney who special- lars’ worth of debt doesn’t mean you izes in bankruptcy law. Veteran bankruptcan.” cy attorney D. Jean Ryan, Esq. at Ryan Ryan said that even in these trying Law Firm, P.A. has 36 years of experitimes, hope is on the horizon. The best ence in handling bankruptcy matters advice is to seek valuable counsel from throughout Florida and across the United an experienced bankruptcy attorney, who States. is often knowledgeable in many different Specializing in bankruptcy law and fields, such as real estate and foreclosure the representation of business and indiissues, divorce proceedings, students vidual debtors, creditors, creditor commitloans, credit card dept and past due tees and trustees in Chapter 7, 11, 12 taxes. and 13 cases, Ryan advises clients in a “The sooner someone gets informawide variety of distressed debt, restructur- tion and advice, the greater success they ing and insolvency matters. will have in resolving their financial In addition to her successful career in issues, including, if necessary, navigating law, she also was a part-time teacher and through the bankruptcy process,” she lecturer. Ryan also provided her expertise said. to members of the National Bankruptcy Ryan’s office hours are MondayReview Commission and testified before Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. To schedule a coma congressional committee regarding the plementary initial conference, visit increase in personal bankruptcies and the www.ryanlawpa.com or call 651-2733 or crisis in consumer credit. 305-275-2733.
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Volume 15, Issue 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Children's Gasparilla Will Continue With Reserved Distanced Seating & Protocols In Place
Staff Report
Center and witness the krewe’s fully-rigged pirate ship—the José Gasparilla II—and its accompanying flotilla of boats invade the shore. Shortly after, the 2021 Gasparilla Parade of Pirates, presented by Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, steps off at 2 p.m. As the focal point of Tampa’s Gasparilla Pirate Fest activities, the parade boasts approximately 130 colorful floats, bands Tickets are now on sale for Children’s Gasparilla and José Gaspar’s swashbuckling events, taking place in January 2021. pirates. Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla EventFest, Inc. and Ye Mystic Krewe and EventFest are working closely with of Gasparilla have announced that the City of Tampa officials to prepare for a advanced-sale, reserved tickets are on ‘super’ Gasparilla in 2021. In light of pubsale now for the 2021 Children’s lic health concerns, the event will feature Gasparilla presented by Chick-fil-A Tampa socially-distanced reserved Invasion Bay and the Seminole Hard Rock Brunch and parade seating with a miniGasparilla Pirate Fest, Gasparilla Invasion mum of one row and one seat between Brunch and Gasparilla Parade of Pirates. each party. The 2021 Children’s Gasparilla, While large gatherings remain a scheduled for Saturday, January 23, dynamic and evolving situation, 2021, is an alcohol-free, family event that Gasparilla continues to work with city offiannually launches the Gasparilla season cials and public health authorities on in Tampa. The event invites pirates of all event modifications and contingencies to ages to witness a series of expertlyensure that Tampa’s signature community designed parade floats, krewes, marching event safely occurs in 2021. bands, dance units and more in the TICKETS: Reserved bleacher seatChildren’s Gasparilla Parade. The exciteing for the Children’s Gasparilla Parade ment comes to a close with the Children’s starts at $47 per person. Additional Gasparilla ‘Piratechnic’ Finale, which reserved seating options are available lights up the sky above Bayshore Blvd. starting at $62 per person. Visit beginning at 6:30 p.m. GasparillaTreasures.com to learn more The 2021 Gasparilla Invasion about single-row chair seating (First Mate Brunch, scheduled for Saturday, January Tickets) and hospitality experience tickets 30, 2021, has been a Gasparilla tradition (Scully’s Hospitality Experience), which since the late 1980s. Brunch ticket holdinclude pre-parade family entertainment, ers will enjoy a bountiful feast and live buffet lunch and more. entertainment at the Tampa Convention
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
The Stano Foundation Sends Christmas In A Box To Our Troops
By Libby Hopkins
Each year, The 2020. Stano Foundation “Since the pansends care packdemic, we have not ages to our troops been able to hold all over the world. many of our These care packfundraisers as most ages offer them of them were in some love and partnership with comfort from home. event companies This year, the held outside and Each year, The Stano Foundation sends foundation wants with large crowds,” care packages to our troops all over the world. These care packages offer them to send our troops Stano said. “We some love and comfort from home. This Christmas in a year, The Stano Foundation wants to send have had to find box. other ways to raise our troops Christmas in a box. “We send care packages out every funds, which has not been easy as everyquarter, but for the holiday care packages one’s finances have been affected by we wanted to be able to send our heroes COVID.” overseas Christmas in a box,” said the The Stano Foundation is looking for foundation’s president, Paula Stano. sponsors from the Brandon community to “These military members are not able to help it send Christmas in a box to our celebrate with their families or friends, so troops for the upcoming holidays. we wanted to let them know they were “We need items like Santa hats, USB not forgotten and give them a reason to lights, small acrylic paint sets and normal celebrate. For our holiday packages we snacks we send, like protein bars, beef are wrapping the inside with Christmas jerky, microwaveable mac and cheese wrapping paper and adding in items like cups and cup-o-noodles,” Paula said. Santa hats, ornaments, hot chocolate, “The community can assist by purchasing candy canes and Christmas lights. Each items from our Amazon Wish List, which box will still have the normal 40 to 45 can be found at https://stano.org/getitems we send and lots of snacks.” involved/#supplylist. There is a ‘Supplies The Stano Foundation is a nonprofit Needed’ section and a link to see our organization that was founded in June supply list on Amazon. We can also 2015 with the mission to support our always use thank-you letters or cards, as Armed Forces, veterans and their families these are an item our military members through program-based initiatives focused love to receive in their care packages.” on enhancing their comfort and quality of To learn more about The Stano life by providing them with a piece of Foundation or to make a monetary donahome. tion towards Christmas in a box, visit The COVID-19 pandemic hindered www.stano.org or email Stano at the foundation’s ability to fundraise in pstano@stano.org.
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Page 18
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
Village Inn Riverview & Brandon Now Locally Owned And Ready To Serve Community
Watts Dental Offers 3rd Annual Free Dental Day For Veterans, Appts Available
Pie lovers will three components be happy to hear with breakfast, lunch that two locations of and dinner for various a popular restaurant prices. have even more to Director of offer this month. Operations for Village Tampa Bay resInn Dean LaFollette ident Danny Lehan stated what makes recently purchased the restaurant stand the Brandon and out. Director of Operations for Village Inn Riverview Village Inn “Our vision is Dean LaFollette (left) and Franchise locations and is looksimply this: to take Owner Danny Lehan (right) recently presented Amy Scott with the first ing forward to care of our guests annual Pinellas County ROSE becoming involved in and our team by (Recognition of Service Excellence) the community while delivering the best award presented by the FRLA. continuing to serve family dining experiquality all-day breakfast, the ence so that each individual best pie in America and more. leaves with a sense of wellLehan, who also took being and satisfaction with over the Land O’Lakes Village our great value,” LaFollette Inn in July and is a part fransaid. chise owner of existing locaTo aid in social distanctions in Seminole, Largo and St. ing protocol, the Riverview location Petersburg, has served for many years recently received a dining room expanwith the Florida Restaurant and Lodging sion and all locations offer curbside pickAssociation and the Pinellas County up and online ordering. Employment Performing Arts. opportunities are also available; please Village Inn is a regional brand that apply in person at the locations. offers American comfort food including “Village Inn’s heritage is built on cooked from scratch pancakes and pies being active in the community,” Lehan made in-house. Pumpkin pancakes and said. pumpkin pies are available and will conFor more information, visit www.viltinue to be throughout the holidays. In lageinn.com. The Brandon restaurant is fact, during the week of Thanksgiving, located at 1995 W. Lumsden Rd. and the chain aims to sell 2,500 pies, with can be reached at 657-7382. The pie reservations available in advance. Riverview location, at 10293 Big Bend Village Inn also offers a holiday Rd., can be reached at 741-3200. The turkey feast for both dine-in guests and restaurants are open Monday-Sunday, 6 for family-sized takeout. The new 55a.m.-10 p.m., and are also open on plus value menu for seniors consists of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
cleanings, to veterans. Last year, donations of services topped $79,000 during the one-day event. Dr. Casey Lynn of SmileLYNN Pediatric Dentistry is one of the volunteers that helps with the event, and according to Edwards, the majority of the cleanings given to veterans take place in his office, which is in the same Watts Dental is hosting its third annual Free Dental plaza as Watts Dental Apollo Beach. Day for Veterans on Saturday, November 7. “We hear horror stories so The team at Watts Dental in often from our patients who are veterFishHawk and Apollo Beach knows ans and have put their lives on the line how to give back to the community, and for us, and that motivates us even more next month it plans to do it in style. to give back to them,” said Edwards, Watts Dental’s third annual Free Dental who added that local elementary school Day for Veterans will take place on students also make thank-you cards for Saturday, November 7 from 8 a.m.-4 the patients to take with them. p.m. in Apollo Beach, offering free denVeterans are asked to make tal services to local veterans. appointments in advance by calling any According to Pamela Edwards, of the Watts Dental offices, and anyone Watts’ patient advocate, the team of interested in volunteering time or prodvolunteers gave more than 120 patients ucts can ask to speak to Pamela complimentary services last year. Edwards. Depending on availability, “Part of our mission statement is to patients may be able to receive more be part of our community, and with so than one service, but at least one treatmany of our typical events needing to ment is guaranteed. be cancelled due to COVID, we got Appointment times will be more together and said, one way or another, spaced out this year to limit exposure we have to make this happen,” said due to COVID-19. Edwards. “It is a whole heartfelt day To learn more or to make an and something many of us look forward appointment, call 737-7370 or visit to all year.” www.WattsDentalFL.com. Watts Dental During the event, Watts staff memApollo Beach is located at 137 Harbor bers team up with other local doctors Village Ln. and the FishHawk office is and professionals to offer dental serviclocated at 5605 Skytop Dr. in Lithia. es, including fillings, extractions and
By Tatiana Ortiz
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October 2020
Page 19
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Datz Group Brings New Donovan’s Modern American Meatery To Winthrop Town Centre
By Kathy L. Collins
with potatoes cooked every way imaginable from mashed to fried to au gratin. Not to be outdone, vegetables will also have a starring role with wood fired asparagus, artichokes, brussels sprouts. Onion rings will be a must have. Seafood such as oysters, crab and more will be prevalent as will the The Datz Restaurant Group is bringing its newest concept lobster or truffle mac and restaurant, Donovan’s Modern American Meatery, to cheese.” Executive Chef Winthrop Town Centre. Donovan’s will be the perfect spot for a great meal set in a comfortable and convivial setting. Lee Jasper is at the helm of the grill. He has The newest addition to the line up of decades of experience cooking with great food and retail establishments in the smoke and fire. Winthrop Town Centre is Donovan’s Looking for a well-crafted cocktail? Modern American Meatery (Donovan’s). You are in luck. The renowned mixologist, Donovan’s is located just off of Dean Hurst, has been brought on to Bloomingdale in the heart of the Winthrop curate a simple, elegant cocktail and wine Town Centre at 11206 Sullivan St. in list with classics like Side Cars and Aperol Riverview. Spritzers. Boutique wines and a well Donovan’s is run by the Datz thought out beer list, along with a concise Restaurant Group owned by co-owners, spirit list, round out the options. Hurst Suzanne and Roger Perry. According to has worked with Bern's and many other Suzanne, Donovan’s is “Comfortable, top beverage programs prior to joining the cosmopolitan and understated without a team at Donovan’s. flashy, over the top feeling. We used The inspiration for Donovan’s is simrepurposed items. There is polished conple. Suzanne explained, “Many years crete, repurposed wood, upcycled furniprior to opening our first restaurant, we ture, antique sliding doors and gas had kicked around the idea of a steaklanterns which give it a warm, homey and house named after Roger's father, Russel convivial ambiance.” Suzanne added, ‘Donovan’ Perry. Roger grew up on a “The interior had been so beautifully finmodest family farm having fresh beef and ished in the past, we really did not make vegetables with almost every meal. a lot of changes. We changed some Donovan's reflects the family farm ethos.” warm red colors to mirror the flames from Donovan’s will open in mid to late the grills, and we have some different furOctober for Happy Hour beginning at 4 niture, but the general feeling is still p.m. with dinner until 9 p.m. They will be sophisticated rustic.” open until 10 p.m. on Friday and Suzanne said, “We specifically Saturday. Lunch and then brunch will be designed Donovan's to be the go-to dinadded later. ner spot and not a place to be saved for The Datz Restaurant Group opened only once a year.” Datz earlier this year in Winthrop Town The menu at Donovan’s is true Centre. Suzanne said, “We have always steakhouse. You can find several varialiked the area. We love the people we tions of Certified Angus Beef, American have met and we love the Winthrop Town Wagyu, Brasstown grass-fed steaks, Center.” duck, house cured bacon steaks and wild For more information, please visit game. Perry said, “Entrees will be paired www.donovansmeatery.com.
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Page 20
Volume 15, Issue 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
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Brandon/Winthrop
October 2020 Women’s Care Florida Welcomes Melissa Greenwood
Volume 15, Issue 10
Ph: 657-2418
Section 3
Women’s Care Florida is excited to welcome Melissa Greenwood, APRN to its practice. Greenwood is an advanced registered nurse practitioner with over 20 years experience who Chick-N-Bones Cafe & Catering Co. is provides a full spectrum of under new ownership. Essentials of Brandon Celebrates 10 Years in Business. obstetrical and gynecologias a key part that allows its hair Market - Brandon to the area. It is a cal care as well as promotof the cafe stylist to assist clients by offering a premium quality, boutique-style meat ing general wellness. throughout the wide variety of hair services. market serving all premium meat, Greenwood is now seeing business transiEssentials of Brandon is incredibly seafood and exotics needs with knowlpatients at its offices in Melissa Greenwood, the new thankful to its clients and their continAPRN at Women’s Care Florida. tion, as will longedgeable staff to help guide you Brandon and Gibsonton. term employee ued support over the last 10 years. A through your shopping experience. It is To schedule an appointJose Rodriguez. “We look forward to lot of its success stems from being proud to offer Snake River Farms ment with any provider, call 681-9171. many more years of serving the comavailable to its clients at all hours of American Wagyu, Villari Foods pork munity through all three food-related the day each week. Giving its clients and chicken and delicious charcuterie Popular Chick-N-Bones Cafe & businesses.” flexibility to schedule appointments at options. Barbeque spices, rubs and Catering Co. Under New their leisure, it is open grilling accessories Ownership Essentials Of Brandon Celebrates seven days a week, with are also available to Peter and Tina Madsen, founders 10-Year Anniversary scheduling appointments complement your of Fresh Original Food, a local cateravailable, from Monday Essentials of Brandon has certainselection. ing and meal prep service, are excited through Saturday, 9 a.m.-9 ly grown over the last 10 years, not Heights Meat to announce the purchase of Chick-Np.m., and on Sunday, 10 only by expanding its staff but also by Market is open Bones Cafe & Catering Co. from its a.m.-6 p.m. expanding the services offered in an Monday to Saturday founders, Don and Danita Boyer. The Essentials of Brandon is attempt to stay relevant and up to date from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. cafe has been serving the Brandon located at 3405 Brook Crossing Dr. in on the latest trends for both health and and Sunday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. It is community fresh and delicious flameBrandon. Visit www.brandonessenbeauty. Essentials started out with two located at 1019 E. Bloomingdale Ave. broiled chicken, ribs, Latin-style pork, tials.com to find out more or call 681stylist chairs when it moved to this in Valrico, opposite of Plaza Bella. Visit salads and sandwiches for the last 23 1110 to schedule an appointment. location, and after two years it out its Facebook page @heightsmeatmaryears. “Tina and I became fans of grew that space and added five addiket or Chick-N-Bones back in ‘99 and were Boutique Meat Market Opens tional stylist chairs, and in 2018 it www.heightsmeatmarket.com/brandon thrilled when Don offered to transition introduced the newest addition to its Ray and Nicole Reed are very for more details. this great business from his family to 6000 sq. ft. spa, a beautiful hair suite excited to introduce Heights Meat Continued on Next Page ours,” said Peter. Danita is remaining
Page 22
Business Column Continued................... Creative Junk Therapy Grand Reopening
Creative Junk Therapy is a start-up nonprofit creative reuse center that promotes creative expression, environmental awareness and community engagement through education, reuse and the arts. Its new location is at 772 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon and a grand reopening celebration will be held on Saturday, November 28. For more information, email creativejunktherapy@outlook.com.
Training Classes For Your Pandemic Puppy At Canine Cabana
Canine Cabana wants to help you and your pandemic puppy with the crucial training they need within their first year of life and offers several training and daycare programs to help with this. Canine Cabana’s training programs set foundational skills to help each dog become a well-mannered, healthy and happy dog. Its puppy socialization program is a fiveday program that customizes your puppy’s needs, including leash walking, bite inhibition, crate training, potty habits and more. After graduating from the Puppy Socialization program, your puppy can enter into its Cabana Manners program; this obedience training is designed to help develop a positive and fun relationship with your dog and family. To review your dog training needs, Canine Cabana encourages you to reach out to it to
Volume 15, Issue 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
By Jenny Bennett
set up a consultation by emailing info@caninecabana.biz or calling 672-9663. Canine Cabana also offers traditional and enrichment daycare options. More information can be found at https://caninecabana.biz/.
Southwest Florida Rheumatology Now Carrying Oasis Health Products
Southwest Florida Rheumatology now carries the leading brand of overthe-counter nutritional products developed specifically for patients from Oasis Health. These products are ‘Formulated by Rheumatologists, for Patients’ to deliver a natural, preventative approach as part of their overall wellness plan. Oasis products are third-party tested at multiple levels for purity with verified sourcing and domestic manufacturing. This portfolio of supplements, topicals and broad spectrum hemp formulations help patients achieve goals under the guidance of Southwest Florida Rheumatology’s physicians and provide the right balance needed to support optimal health and well-being.
Florida Digestive Health Opens In Brandon
Florida Digestive Health Specialists recently opened a new care center location in Brandon. Dr. Bhavtosh Dedania, the gastroenterolo-
gist leading the practice, is the only GI physician in the area performing a highly specialized endoscopic ultrasonography procedure for patients. Dr. Dedania has privileges at Brandon regional Hospital and will be performing procedures at Brandon Surgery Center.
1ST Leap Workforce Consulting Here To Assist Your Career
Rediscover, Innovate, Celebrate Munch & Mingle event at The Barn at Winthrop Town Centre. The goal of this event was for the GRCC to dip its toes into hosting in-person events with smaller gatherings. Masks were required and hand sanitizer was available to all guests. Tables were spread 6 ft. apart with four people seated at each table. The event was sponsored and catered by Datz Restaurant Group and GRCC welcomed 50 of its members to the event. If you want to know more about the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, visit www.RiverviewChamber.com, call 234-5944 or email info@riverviewchamber.com.
Latoya Cave started her business after transitioning from the Navy to a post military career and experiencing the stress and frustration that it can bring and the needs job seekers face. 1ST Leap Workforce Consulting assists mid to high-level career proTBD@301 fessionals Celebrates with Two-Year building Anniversary career confiTBD@301 dence (Tea, Bowls and sucand Desserts) cess in recently celetheir brated its twocareer year anniverjourneys sary with a by offertaste sampling ing proof its brandTBD@301 recently celebrated its two-year anniversary. fessional new fall flavor resume writing services, consulting herbal tea, cinnamon apricot toffee clients on career path clarity and proas well as its famous lumpia. viding strategies to set its clients TBD@301 is a shop that features apart in the ever-changing job market. different types of herbal teas, deliIt truly cares about helping each client cious bowls and various desserts, highlight their strengths and skills on including pastries, cheesecakes and paper show that they can show up other tasty treats. All of its teas are confidently in person. Other services brewed from leaves as they are include cover letters, reference page ordered. Each tea is customizable and LinkedIn optimization. by selecting different types of milk One-on-one consultations are or sweetener, and they are all natuconducted by phone, inquiring clients ral. Ordering from TBD@301 is can contact Cave via email at available in-store, as well as by firstleapwc@gmail.com, through the pickup and delivery through Uber website at www.1stleapworkforce.com Eats and DoorDash. or on the Facebook page @1stleapllc. TBD@301 is located at 3840 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview in the Greater Riverview Chamber Of plaza off U.S. Hwy. 301 S. and Falkenburg Rd. It is open from Commerce Hosts Rediscover, Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Innovate, Celebrate, Event For more information, visit www.tbdThe Greater Riverview Chamber cafe.com or call 420-0013. of Commerce (GRCC) hosted its first
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Page 23
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Local Resident Works To Get Out The Vote From The Latino Community
Staff Report
For SouthShore With his extensive Honorary Mayor and background in marketlocal businessman Joe ing as the owner of Zuniga, mobilizing the Zuniga Marketing, Hillsborough County Zuniga is taking a grassLatino community and roots-level approach to encouraging them to reach his fellow Latinos. register to vote is a perBy launching digital sonal mission. With campaigns in the nearly 32 million Latinos Wimauma, Ruskin, eligible to vote in the Plant City, Seffner and coming election, Zuniga Dover areas, he wants is focusing his efforts on his message to reach Local businessman Joe Zuniga is making sure that those mobilizing the Hillsborough County the overlooked Hispanic Latino Community and residing in the population, educating encouraging them to register to SouthShore area and mobilizing them to vote. understand the impordemand to be seen and tance of their votes. heard. Through local influencers and According to Zuniga, historically, leaders in the area, Zuniga has been more than half of the eligible Latino voters organizing community events to promote have not participated in elections. the ‘get out and vote’ message. He wants “Yet with their growing numbers, their the younger and rapidly growing generapotential to have real voting power to tions of Latinos to recognize the political reshape the political landscape is eviforce they can become, and ultimately a dent,” said Zuniga, who explained it is force the politicians can no longer ignore. important to him that the Latino people As the child of a migrant family who embrace their right to vote, recognize traveled throughout the country working their power and make their voices heard. in fields, Zuniga overcame many obsta“I feel we are a community that has been cles to achieve his dream of becoming an overlooked and taken for granted by the award-winning singer, author, inspirational political system, and now it is time for the speaker and business owner. With his Latinos to mobilize and flex our political leadership and influence, he hopes to muscle.” bring more inclusion of the Latino comZuniga also wants the politicians to munity and its younger generation, and to take note. ultimately lead them into greater aware“Besides the national elections, this is ness of their own importance and power a wake-up call to all local candidates as in the political arena. well that if you don’t acknowledge us, you Zuniga’s message to the Latino comare missing a very important resource,” munity is: “Nuestra voz es nuestro voto— he said. Our voice is our vote.”
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Page 24
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
Local Theaters Make Movie-Watching Safe & Comfortable As They Reopen
By Taylor Wells
As movie theaters start to reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the question is: how is our safety ensured if we go to the movies? Xscape Theatres Riverview 14, Plant City Premiere LUX Ciné 8 and Pizza Pub and AMC Theatre’s Regency 20 and Riverview 14 GDX locations are well-prepared. Xscape Theatres Riverview 14 recently reopened with new and improved protocols so that your time in the theater is the best it can be, including reduced capacity in auditoriums; staggered showtimes to reduce overcrowding and allow time to clean and sanitize; social distancing; frequent cleaning procedures for commonly touched areas and daily inspections of restrooms and auditoriums; and more. Regarding concessions, food and drinks are still available, but common areas will be routinely disinfected, concession stands and kitchens will be sanitized every 30 minutes, every other register will be closed to maintain social distancing, free refills are unavailable for now, self-service condiment areas are closed and items like lids, straws, napkins and condiments are available by request. Other policies for everyone include daily health screenings, required personal protection equipment and handwashing. Xscape staff will be given extensive training and daily updates to maintain and reiterate its new cleanliness and safety policies, and online ticketing and self-service ticketing kiosks are available. Xscape’s other features and amenities include its Xtreme Xscape auditori-
ums, reserved seating, listening devices available, beer and wine, rewards program, theater rental and more. For Xtreme Xscape and 3D showings, tickets cost an extra $2.30. The theater also has Discount Tuesdays and Senior Discount Wednesdays, both being all-day tickets for $7.37. Plant City Premiere LUX Ciné 8 has implemented safety measures for staff and guests, like employees washing their hands and changing gloves frequently, constant cleaning and disinfecting of highcontact surfaces, social distancing, requiring everyone to wear masks at all times (aside from when snacking during a movie), staying home for any signs of illness and many others. As for snacking, there are limited menu items at this time, self-serve refill stations and free refills are temporarily suspended, Premiere Team members will fill your soda and ICEE cups for you and other new policies have been put into place, all to ensure safe food-handling. For reserved seating, there is a 50 percent occupancy rule so that everyone in an auditorium has an empty seat on
Expiration 10/31/2020
both sides, though friends and family can sit together. For non-reserved seating, every other row in an auditorium will be blocked off and guests are asked to space themselves out accordingly for everyone’s well-being. Along with its enhanced policies, Plant City Premiere LUX Ciné 8 provides D-BOX and IMAX for more immersive experiences and offers ticket deals for lower prices, such as: Special Opening Rate - All tickets for returning movies are only $5.43. Special Prices (new movies) - Early Bird (before 12 p.m. daily) for $6.52, Terrific Tuesday (not valid on holidays and special premieres) for $5.43 and Senior Monday (60+, no holidays) for $5.43. General Admission (new movies) Adults (12+, after 6 p.m., MondayThursday) for $10.05, Weekend Adults (12+, after 6 p.m., Friday-Sunday) for $10.32, Children (any child that takes a seat—not valid for R-rated films) for $7.61 and Seniors (60+) for $7.61 matinees (all shows before 6 p.m.). Digital 3D features cost an additional $2.50 per ticket. Premiere LUX Ciné 8
Expiration 10/31/2020
recommends that guests purchase tickets online in advance, and for further convenience it reduced the online fees to make this easier and more affordable. AMC Regency 20 and AMC Riverview 14 GDX have a new set of extensive cleaning policies called AMC Safe & Clean™ to reduce contact and keep people safe, which go along well with their other great features and amenities. These policies include: masks required for all guests and staff (except when enjoying food and drinks in the auditorium, but they must be worn when finished), social distancing standards, a simplified menu, sanitizer and wipe dispensers available in the theaters, refills being temporarily unavailable, frequent handwashing for the staff, daily temperature readings for staff, enhanced cleaning procedures developed with Clorox® and more. All AMC, AMC DINE-IN™ and AMC CLASSIC® auditoriums will also have 40 percent capacity or less, with enough space between each row for proper social distancing. It also has ‘Welcome Back’ offers, such as 30 percent off tickets every day before 5 p.m. AMC Theatres encourages guests to order tickets online ahead of time on its website or app to help reduce physical contact. For more information about these theaters and their ticket prices, offers and safety policies, visit xscapetheatres.com, www.pccmovies.com and www.amctheatres.com.
Expiration 10/31/2020
October 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 25
Sports Connection Photos courtesy of Beef ‘O’ Brady’s
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By Nick Nahas
Beefs ‘O’ Brady’s Locations In Tampa Will Air Fall High School Sporting Events Live these problems and allow its website, “the health and safety of Beef ‘O’ Brady’s is bringing local these people to unite as our customers has always been our communities together by airing high a family and be able to highest priority. We are following the school football games at over 10 watch it and tend to these Centers for Disease Control and restaurants this season due to sporting events live?’” Prevention (CDC) and the World COVID-19 restrictions/capacity regFood and drink speHealth Organization guidelines in ulations at the games. Fans now cials are offered on game addition to monitoring and implementhave a hangout to watch their days, and events are ing local and state recommendations favorite teams play while having shown on several TVs in in dealing with the coronavirus great food and drinks. the restaurants. Party (COVID-19).” Locations include: Plant City rooms can be reserved Lithia Beefs General Manager (airing Plant City games), Northdale T.J. Oliveres thinks the promotion (Gaither games), Riverview has potential and that his store (Riverview games), Bloomingdale Beefs wants to bring local communities together by airing fall sporting events live. will get even more business on (Bloomingdale games), FishHawk game nights now that restaurants office and local franchisees teamed (Newsome games), Valrico (Brandon are able to open to full capacity. up with their respective high schools and Durant games), Lutz He said excitement fills the air in and booster clubs to air games at (Steinbrenner games), Citrus Park the game night atmosphere. (Sickles games), Summer Field (East the restaurants. Volleyball, cross “Our goal is to bring our comcounty, track and other fall sporting Bay games), Wilderness (Land munities together,” said Boggs. events are being aired as well. Some O’Lakes games) and Sunlake “What mom, grandma, sibling of the restaurants will set up a view(Sunlake games). If your area is not doesn’t want to watch their kid live listed, call your local Beefs to find out ing party outside with big TVs to The Bloomingdale Beefs location has a bigger footwhen they are playing in their have a tailgating vibe for game if it will be airing games. peomore for print than other restaurants, allowing ple to attend on game nights. sports events? We understand nights. According to Heather Boggs, as well for groups of six or less. that times are tough, so how can we “Community connection has chief marketing officer at Beef ‘O’ Social distancing rules are followed, make sure that they can still be as always been in our DNA,” said Brady’s, when it was announced that allowing for a safe environment. close to that as possible? We want to Boggs. “Once we saw this become a there would be limited attendance at Restaurants were allowed to open at make it known that we are a part of problem in our communities, we said, high school football games in full capacity last Friday. According to your family and community.” Hillsborough County, the Beefs home ‘How do we step up, how do we fix
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Page 26
Volume 15, Issue 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
The Brandon Ballet To Perform Virtual Fall Ballet After a long period of and Raymonda, along closure due to COVID-19, with two new works, set to the Brandon Ballet is ready music by Vivaldi and to perform. The Brandon Dvořák, which were choreBallet is proud to present ographed by Artistic the opening of its 27th seaDirector Doricha Sales. son, the Season of “Audience members Endurance. Its first performwill enjoy this unique perance will be unusual in that formance format created it will be held virtually. to embrace the video The Virtual Fall Ballet streaming format while will be held on Saturday, individually highlighting October 24 at 7:30 p.m. each of our 33 dancers,” Tickets are $25 and can be said Townend. purchased online at Funds raised through The Brandon Ballet will return www.brandonballet.org. the Virtual Fall Ballet will to the ‘stage’ with its Virtual Fall Ballet on Saturday, “The artistic director, help offset the cost of putOctober 24 at 7:30 p.m. Here ting on the next producexecutive director and is your chance to see some dancers have worked hard world class choreography and tion, The Nutcracker. This superb dancers from the com- year, the much-anticipated to bring to our beloved fort of your couch. audience and community annual show will be perthe first performance of the 2020-21 seaformed outdoors. Both The Nutcracker son with The Virtual Fall Ballet,” said and the Virtual Fall Ballet will be events Hannah Townend, administrative coordithat you do not want to miss. nator for the Brandon Ballet. The Brandon Ballet is a nonprofit, Townend added, “This first performpreprofessional ballet company that was ance, an online virtual experience, will founded in 1993. It develops and proallow audience members nationwide to motes opportunities for aspiring young get acquainted with our dancers while dancers and offers a superior training proalso contributing to raise funds towards gram. Each year, the Brandon Ballet expanding our community reach. From offers three major performances for the the comfort of their couches, audience community to enjoy. The superior training, members can immerse themselves in the coupled with the performances, assists wondrous experience of live dance perserious dancers in broadening their formance.” dance experience. Please contact The Virtual Fall Ballet will include Townend at dance@brandonballet.org or excerpts from La Bayadere, Le Corsaire call 684-4282.
The Florida Orchestra Reimagines The Fall Season To Bring Back Live Concerts
The Florida Orchestra role in helping our comis reimagining a fall season munity heal. We must that brings the comfort and take these steps for joy of live classical music safety and financial staback to Tampa Bay while bility now to ensure a maintaining health and brighter future,” added safety as the top priority. Cantrell. The Florida Orchestra is In phase one, the conducting the season with orchestra will be divided a three-phased approach into smaller ensembles for maximum safety. of 20 to 40 players. The 53rd season will There will be more conopen on Saturday, October certs and a greater vari31 and Sunday, November The Florida Orchestra, under the ety of music. The result direction of Music Director 1 with Beethoven’s Michael Francis, will return to is an expansion of the Symphony No. 7, conduct- live concerts in a limited fashion premier Tampa Bay on Saturday, October 31. ed by Music Director Times Masterworks Michael Francis. series to include exciting new In phase one, all concerts will be held Soundwaves concerts which explore a exclusively at the Duke Energy Center for wide range of music and composers. the Arts - Mahaffey Theater, located at Overall, concerts will be shorter with no 400 1st St. S. in St. Petersburg. In addiintermission. Some weekends will offer tion to in-person concerts, The Florida five performances over two days, but all Orchestra will offer livestream video for will be with limited audiences. free. “By expanding our Masterworks “It is a crazy, complicated puzzle to series to include our wonderful new make the season work, but we are tackSoundwaves concerts, I am thrilled to ling it with a strong team thanks to the share an amazing kaleidoscope of unwavering support of our community. sounds and colors,” said Francis. We are grateful to everyone who has Phase one will have limited, spaced continued to make contributions,” said seating for the safety of patrons. The The Florida Orchestra President and Florida Orchestra will accommodate seaCEO Mark Cantrell. “The Florida son ticketholders first, and any remaining Orchestra’s board of directors have stood tickets will go on sale on Monday, by our musicians and staff because they October 12. Visit know this orchestra will play an important www.floridaorchestra.org.
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October 2020
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
HART Seeks Community Input On Upcoming Bus Schedule Changes
By Brad Stager
Changes are com(former HARTFlex ing to the Hillsborough Brandon). Area Regional Transit Service changes (HART) bus service and cuts to HART throughout its countyroutes in other parts of wide service area and Hillsborough County the public is invited to are also under considprovide input on the eration. proposed route deleVirtual town halls tions and modificaand transit center meettions. The changes are ings hosted by HART scheduled to take staff members were effect at the beginning Changes to HART bus schedules held in early September are coming early next year. of 2021 and some and input is now being Residents are being asked to give routes in the input now on proposal route cuts and solicited online, with a Bloomingdale and public hearing to be held changes. FishHawk areas are being considered for in October and a final vote on the prochanges. posed changes anticipated to be held in According to HART, the changes are November. being planned to better meet the areas’ Carson Chambers is the director of transportation needs, improve efficiency communications for HART. In a videoand preserve funding. recorded statement on HART’s website, Routes facing changes, such as stop she said the goal is to ensure optimal locations and frequency of service, service to HART riders. include: 8 Progress Village/Brandon, “HART’s mission is to take people to 24LX FishHawk/South Tampa, 25LX the places that enhance their lives. As Bloomingdale/South Tampa, 38 Mango, our community’s needs change, we’re 46 Brandon Blvd., 360LX Brandon/South always reviewing service to meet those Tampa. needs.” Routes that would no longer be in An online survey and message portal service include: 60LX Cross County, are available for the public to make com75LX South County Shopper, HARTFlex ments at hartserviceinput.com, where Brandon, HARTFlex South County. you can also find details about the proAs for HARTPlus, which connects posed changes, including adjusted route people with disabilities to the transit sysmaps and recordings of the previously tem, service would continue within ¾ of a held town halls (in English and Spanish). mile of the fixed route bus system, but HART can also be reached by phone at would no longer be available along parts 254-4278. For service-related information of Sun City Center Blvd. (former about HART, including current schedules, HARTFlex South County) and Kings Ave. maps and fares, visit gohart.org.
Page 27
Full Grown Girl Offers Zero-Waste Products
By Libby Hopkins
Full Grown Girl ents. Lüfka and is a unique plant Full Grown Girl and gift shop locatwant to take a ed in Winthrop stand together Town Center in and transition into Riverview. Cynthia a more sustainAtkins is the owner able and singleof Full Grown Girl use, plastic-free and she has made lifestyle. it her mission to “Going ‘zero offer the Riverview waste’ is easier community the than you think,” best selection of said Lüfka Owner exotic plants and Kelly Spangler. super cool gifts. “As a community, Atkins recently we can reduce took her mission our carbon footFull Grown Girl and the Lüfka Refillables to the next level print by reusing Zero Waste Store have formed a partnership to bring Lüfka’s organic, handmade, zeroand formed a and refilling conwaste products to the Riverview community. partnership with tainers with ecothe Seminole Heights zero-waste store, friendly and luxurious products.” Lüfka. Lüfka has brought a mini version of “When I had my Airstream shop its store to Full Grown Girl. “They have when I first opened up in Winthrop, I brought all of their products from carried Lüfka’s products,” Atkins said. Seminole Heights to Full Grown Girl,” “I’ve known the owners of Lüfka for a Atkins said. “All their products are while now, and I’ve always wanted to organic and handmade. They have [do] more with them. They have wanted everything from skin care to home to do more business in the Brandon cleaning products and [all] of it is zero community, so we decided to do a waste. They have containers at my Lüfka pop-up shop in Full Grown Girl store, but the idea is to bring your own because they have a lot of customers containers and fill them to cut down on from the Brandon area.” waste.” The Lüfka Refillables Zero Waste To learn more about Full Grown Store is Tampa’s first refillable, ecoGirl, visit www.fullgrowngirl.com or call friendly and sustainable bath, body, Atkins at 629-1124. Full Grown Girl is kitchen and DIY supplies company. located at 11292 Sullivan St. in the BYOC (Bring Your Own Containers) or Winthrop Town Center in Riverview. choose from a variety of its refillable Visit its website at www.organiand reusable containers and fill them clufka.com. Its main store is located at with eco-friendly personal care prod4222 N. Florida Ave. in Seminole ucts, cleaning supplies and raw ingredi- Heights in Tampa.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10