Osprey Observer 2018-08 Bloomingdale/FishHawk by Osprey Observer

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

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August 2018 Volume 17, Issue 8 Ph: 657-2418 1 6

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P U B L I S H I N G

New High School TTT Will Draw From Newsome And Durant By Kate Quesada

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

9/11 Heros Run Remembers Victims And Benefits Families By Kate Quesada FishHawk area residents are invited to remember the victims of 9/11 while getting exercise and helping families of veterans and fallen heroes next month. The annual Lithia 9/11 Heroes Run will take place on Saturday, September 15 in FishHawk Ranch with both a 5K and a onemile fun run.

famous for losing almost all their men on 9/11, and returned home with a deeper passion about why he was fighting in Iraq,” said Higgins. “ Local sponsors for the event include Philly Pretzel Factory, GTE Financial, PESCO Energy, Boksa Marine Design, Mission BBQ, Amici’s Pizza, George Shea Realty and Pinch a Penny. “Knowing that so many people gave their lives during the 9/11 The annual Lithia 9/11 Heroes Run with start in attacks touched my brother Travis in FishHawk’s at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Sept.15. a way that would forever change Race organizer Beau Higgins is him,” said Ryan Manion Borek, President expecting 400 runners at the event which of Travis Manion Foundation. “Six years will start and finish in FishHawk’s Park after 9/11, my brother also gave his life for Square and will mean that roads in the his country, so every year we gather comsurrounding area will be closed from munities together to run a 5K, not just to approximately 7:45-9 a.m. honor the fallen, but to continue the lega“The annual race will unite the comcies of character, leadership and service munity to remember the nearly 3,000 that they left behind.” lives lost on 9/11, as well as honor our To learn more and register for the military and first responders that serve race visit www.travismanion.org. our country and communities,” said Higgins. The Lithia race is one of many 9/11 In This Heroes Runs around the world in which Issue more than 30,000 people participated last year. Proceeds from the local race, which raised close to $4,000 in 2017, will benefit FISHHAWK CDD MERGER...................PG 3 the Travis Manion Foundation which BLOOMINGDALE SIDEWALKS.............PG 4 empowers veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future genNEW PRINCIPALS ...............................PG 9 erations. LIGHTNING SAFETY ..........................PG 12 The foundation, named after Marine 1st Lt. Travis Manion who was killed by a WACKY HOLIDAYS ............................PG 15 sniper in Iraq in April 2007, also donated EYE ON BUSINESS .....................PGS 25‐26 $1,000 to Seeds of Hope to help local flood victims after Hurricane Irma in 2017. SPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 32‐33 A FishHawk resident, Higgins served ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT................PG 37 with Manion in Iraq and was inspired to work with the foundation to make sure GET THE DIRT...................................PG 39 that his legacy lives on. “Before his final deployment, Travis READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE visited Rescue One in New York City,

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Arja mentioned that in the past, the East Bay to TTT school Balm Rd. CR 672 board has Lennard to East Bay permitted incoming seniors to Lennard to TTT Newsome to TTT Durant to TTT at remain SR 674 their assigned or enrolled schools. “The Proposed High School “TTT,” located on the north side of C.R. 672 and east of U.S. Hwy. 301 is expected to draw students from Newsome, attendance Durant, East Bay and Lennard high schools. boundaries Residents received a first look at of Lennard, East Bay, Newsome and the boundaries for proposed School Durant High Schools are proposed to District of Hillsborough County (SDHC) be impacted to balance enrollment High School “TTT” last month. The among the high schools,” said Arja. “All school, located on the north side of proposed impacted students will be C.R. 672 (Balm Rd.) and east of U.S. reassigned from their current assigned Hwy. 301, is proposed to draw students high school to the new high school from within current boundaries for ‘TTT.’” Newsome, East Bay, Lennard and The district held two open house Durant high schools. It is scheduled to meetings last month at Sheilds Middle open in August 2020. School in Ruskin where parents were According to Hillsborough County able to talk to staff members, provide Public Schools Media Outreach comments and review information on spokesperson Tanya Arja, the school is the new school. Staff members from designed to provide space for growth in SDHC Transportation and Choice the area. departments and the affected schools “The new high school will offer relief were available to answer questions. to East Bay High School and currently Barrington, Eisenhower, Shields overcrowded Lennard High school,” and Turkey Creek middles schools will said Arja. “Additionally, the proposal also have information available to includes minor adjustments to the impacted students during the next southern portions of the Newsome and school year. Durant boundaries, which includes Proposed boundaries are not final areas closer in proximity to the new until board approval which is anticipated High School ‘TTT’ site.” to occur in fall 2018. Students entering 9th-12th grades To submit a comment, email boundin the 2020-2021 school year will be aries@sdhc.k12.fl.us or call the district affected by the boundary changes, but directly at 272-4608.

P O S I T I V E

Food Truck Rally Saturday, August 11 from 5-9 p.m. in the Osprey Club parking lot.

Serving Our Customers in 4 Locations: Lithia • Big Bend, Riverview • 301, Riverview • Sun City Center Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office community resource deputies invite residents to join them for coffee at Moreno Bakery on Friday, August 17 from 8-9:30 a.m. See Story on Page 23.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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August 2018

Champions For Children Provides Resources For Parents And Kids

By Manuela Graf

presents a personal safety show, targeted for Pre-K aged children and their parents. “Kids on the Block specifically focuses on reducing adverse childhood experiences,” said Ashley Lord, Program Coordinator for KOTB. In the 20172018 school year, KOTB’s educational puppeteers train KOTB presented thoroughly for their shows. Kids on the its shows in a total Block presents its shows in elementary of 120 Hillsborough schools all throughout Hillsborough County. County Schools, ‘Strong families, thriving children’including 107 public schools, 13 private those are the words that can be found on schools, and 19 early childhood educathe cover of Champions for Children’s tion locations, according to Lord. KOTB (CFC) brochure. This nonprofit organizapresents its educational shows actively tion that mainly serves the Hillsborough in a number of outreach events, and County area has certainly fulfilled its mislocations such as the Glazer Children’s sion with family education and child museum in downtown Tampa. abuse prevention programs since its CFC, although based in downtown beginning in 1977. Tampa, offers services in most of the With its multitude of programs and Tampa Bay region, including at the services accredited by the Council on Brandon Family Resource Center, locatAccreditation of Children and Family ed at 1271 Kingsway Blvd. Residents Service Organizations (COA) since 2004, can access free programs such as Baby Champions for Children prides itself in Bungalow, which hosts parent-child being the leading agency in Hillsborough playgroups, parent workshops, and child County focused specifically on child developmental screenings. BabyCafe, abuse and neglect prevention, according includes ‘free professional onewhich to Jonathan Goodman, Development on-one breastfeeding support,’ has Director for CFC. drop-in sessions on Tuesdays from 10 One of CFC’s most noteworthy proa.m. to 12 Noon. grams is Kids on the Block (KOTB), an “We provide services for anybody educational puppet show presented in regardless of their circumstances in life. Hillsborough County schools for grades 3 We have services and can meet the and 4. needs of parents in Hillsborough County The interactive show helps third who could use some extra support in grade students recognize different types raising their children,” said Goodman. of child abuse and use strategies to CFC is proud to receive generous report situations to a responsible adult. support from many private donors. For The bullying and stereotyping show helps more information on local resource cenfourth grade students learn to recognize ters, programs/classes, or to donate, and report bullying and teaches compasvisit https://cfctb.org or call 673-4646. sion and respect for others. Every show CFC’s main office is located at 3018 uses life-sized puppets for kids to actively Azeele St. in Tampa. engage and ask questions. KOTB also

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Three FishHawk Ranch CDD Boards Continue Single District Merger Talks

By Michelle Caceres

The three community development district (CDD) boards of FishHawk Ranch are continuing to work toward a possible merger into one district. In June, each board held public hearings where residents showed up to voice their opinions and concerns about the merger. Bridgevista resident Peter Defonzo wanted board members to explain the financial benefits of a merger for CDD District II. CDD II is comprised of 2,551 assessed homes and is the largest district, with a reserve fund balance of more than $2 million dollars as of April 30. District manager Greg Cox of Rizzetta and Company said that a merger could decrease administrative expenses by as much as 41% and field operations expenses by about 1.6%. “The merger of the three districts into one district benefits the community to promote a more streamlined and efficient decision-making and governance by a single Board of Supervisors,” he said. “It eliminates duplication and overlap thereby reducing duplicative costs.” Cox shared a hypothetical merged budget of the merged district and the changes that its effect on each district. FishHawk CDD I and II residents currently pay an operations and maintenance assessment of $808.01 per year. FishHawk CDD III residents pay $1,413.37 per year because there are

only 665 homes in the district to cover its annual expenses and reserves of $897,500. Cox said if the merger occurs, the new operations and maintenance assessment for each home could total $829 per year, a reduction for residents of CDD III. Residents in CDD I and II would see their assessment increase approximately $21. “If these financials are accurate it’s probably not going to break anyone,” said Defonzo. These figures are only estimates, said Cox. The merged board would determine annual assessments based on budget costs. Each district’s bond assessment would not be impacted by the merger. CDD II board vice chairman Pat Reilly said that the possible merger is being talked about candidly and with the best intentions for the residents of FishHawk Ranch. “If this merger passes we go from three, five-member CDD boards to one, two-thirds of us will be losing our jobs,” she quipped. The next step in the process is a vote by each board. If every board votes to approve the merger, a merger petition will be filed with Hillsborough County and a Board of County Commissioners pubic hearing will be scheduled. If approved, the first meeting of a merged board could take place February 2019. Contact Cox at 933-5571 or gcox@rizzetta.com.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale Among Neighborhoods With Sidewalk Renovations

Bloomingdale Library Now Offering Passport Services For New Applications

Neighborhoods all the sidewalk repair and over Hillsborough improvement program to County are more knock out the balance of enjoyable to walk this backlogged repairs over month, thanks to the next five years.” Hillsborough County. According to Pratt, the majority of heaving The Bloomingdale sidewalks are caused by Taxing District is one of tree roots, especially many areas throughout from maturing oak trees. the area receiving Sidewalks with major liftupgrades to its sideing hazards are schedwalks thanks to $1.6 uled for replacement, million the County has which may include prunpaid to contractors this year. Bloomingdale is one of more than a ing tree roots before dozen Hillsborough County pouring new concrete According to Todd neighborhoods receiving attention to sections, whereas areas Pratt with Hillsborough its sidewalks. with minor rises or dips County Media are ground down or have the edges Relations, the Bloomingdale Taxing shaved off in order to smooth the elevaDistrict Sidewalk Rehabilitation program tion difference. will include construction to repair damHazardous sidewalks are usually aged sidewalk sections along Nature’s reported to the County through a service Way Blvd., Springvale Dr. and request and a Public Works’ inspector Greenhollow Lane. then visits each of the reported locations “Over three years, approximately $800,000 of work is scheduled to address to evaluate the conditions and identify additional unreported issues in the same a concentration of lifting sidewalks within vicinity that should also be addressed. the taxing district’s subdivisions, roughly Repairs are prioritized based on the located between Pearson and Bryan roads,” said Pratt. “One completed, future impact to resident safety and the number of people affected. The project engineer repairs will be priorities annually along then uses a mapping tool to identify cluswith needs throughout the county.” ters of work in the same geographic area, Pratt explained that Hillsborough focusing on high-priority repairs. County is currently addressing hundreds Residents with sidewalks that need of previously unfunded work orders. “The backlog of high priority locations attention are asked to contact Public Works at is anticipated to be completed by the end www.HCFLGov.net/AtYourService or 635of 2018,” he said. “The County plans to 5400. spend more than $3 million annually for

Valrico area 2-5 p.m. An appointment residents with must be made for each international travel applicant and all appliplans have a new cants must be present at option to make getthe appointment. ting trip-ready a lit“It was important for us to prioritize this project tle easier. because the Department Bloomingdale of State projects to issue Regional Library nearly 20 million passport began offering books and passport cards passport applicathis year,” said Granda. tion services last “Hillsborough County has month with Bloomingdales Regional Library in Valrico is now taking appointments to more than 1.4 million resiappointments accept passport applications. dents and before we open three days began accepting applications there were week and evening hours available. only 14 locations in the county for resiAccording to Candy Granda, dents to get passports.” Hillsborough County Library Public Granda explained that regulations set Service Regional Manager, the idea to up by the Department of State require start accepting passport applications on libraries to collect a $35 execution fee per behalf of the U.S. Department of State at application accepted. Bloomingdale Library came from U.S. “That $35 remains with the library Representative Kathy Castor. system and the actual passport fees go “We were immediately interested in providing this valuable service to our cus- with the application in delivery to the tomers,” said Granda, who explained that Department of State,” she said, adding that Department of State fees vary the Bloomingdale library was chosen as depending on what the applicant is applyone of two in Hillsborough County due to ing for, the age of the applicant and the its busy neighborhood location and the need for rushed or expedited services. lack of passport offices in the immediate Travelers are reminded to apply for a vicinity for residents to apply, especially passport card or passport book well during evening hours. Library passport services are for new before their trip as it typically takes the Department of State four to six weeks to applicants, not for residents looking to renew a current passport and applications process an application. The library is located at 1906 will only be accepted with an appointBloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For passment. Appointments are available on port services, call 273-3652 or visit Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2-8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-12 Noon and www.hcplc.org/services/passport.

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Page 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition W W W

O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R

By Kathy L. Collins

C O M

The Greater Brandon Chamber Of Commerce To Host Its 2018 Hob Nob

On Thursday, We also want to August 16, the give residents a Greater Brandon chance to meet Chamber of face to face with Commerce will the candidates who hold its 2018 Hob will have to deal Nob at TPepin with those very issues." Hospitality Centre At the Greater located at 4121 Brandon Chamber N. 50th St. in of Commerce Hob Tampa. The Hob Nob, each candiNob begins at 5 The community is invited to attend the Greater date will have a p.m. The cost to Brandon Chamber of Commerce 2018 Hob Nob on Thursday, August 16 from 5 to 7:30 dedicated space attend is just $20 p.m. at the TPepin Hospitality Centre in where residents if purchased in Tampa. This is a rare opportunity for residents advance and $25 to mix and mingle with the candidates running can talk to them for local, state and national office. face to face and at the door. Students are invited to attend for just $10. get answers to questions on where each candidate stands on issues. The Hob Nob is an opportunity for In addition, attendees will receive a residents to meet and mingle with candidates who are running for local, state and summary page outlining the issues including the many Amendments that will national office just weeks before the be on the ballot. Primary Election on Tuesday, August 28. Lewis said, "It is important for us to This event is open to the community. make sure that the electorate is knowlIn addition to meeting with the candiedgeable and informed before they cast dates, attendees will be treated to craft their ballots." Lewis added, "The beer samplings and gourmet pizza and Supervisor of Elections office estimates finger foods. that it will take voters upwards of 20 minAccording to Rick Lewis, the Greater utes to fill out the ballot. It is therefore Brandon Chamber of Commerce CEO, important to make sure people under"2018 is a unique year for East stand the issues so they can make Hillsborough County and the greater informed decisions." Brandon community as we have a lot of It is expected that this year's Hob candidates running for office who come Nob will be the largest ever hosted by the from our area." Lewis added, "The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. is first and foremost a civic organization. It Do not miss this unique opportunity. For more information and to puris our job to serve the community. We chase tickets, please visit www.brandonwant to help everyone in the community to be informed on the issues that we face. chamber.com or call 689-1221.

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Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Nam Knights Donate To Local Charities, Plans For K9 Memorial By Kate Quesada

Army for 25 years and now lives in FishHawk Ranch. “Our members are some of the most solid men I have ever known.” According to Harr, the group is evenly made up of police officers, both active and retired, and military veterans and active duty service members. All members ride HarleyDavidson Motor Company or customValrico chapter of the Nam Knights of America built motorcycles with an engine displacement of 750cc or above. recently presented $4,000 to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation using money “While we don’t actively recruit, collected at their annual pig roast fundraiser. as most of our members find out A group of local veterans and law about us through word of mouth, we are enforcement officers recently made a big always open to finding more people who impact on some of their own. The Valrico share our passion for helping others and chapter of the Nam Knights of America enjoy the love of riding motorcycles,” said donated $4,000 to the Hillsborough Harr. County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Memorial In addition to regularly scheduled Foundation and $4,000 to the Special rides and social events, the group’s main Operations Warrior Foundation last goal is to help police officers and their month thanks to money raised at the family members and other veterans in group’s annual fundraiser. need of assistance. They serve lunch to a The Nam Knights of America is a HCSO district office every quarter and motorcycle club that has 70 chapters recently held a fundraiser to benefit a throughout the country, 14 in Florida. The Sheriff’s deputy with cancer. Every year, group’s missions are to honor the memothe group holds its biggest fundraiser, a ry of American Veterans and Police pig roast, in April and uses the finds Officers who have lost their lives in the raised to support local law enforcement line of duty, to assist veterans and police and veteran charities. officers in their time of need and to proThe group’s next goal is to build a K9 mote community awareness through memorial at the HCSO headquarters. sponsorships and participation in various Plans for the memorial are in the beginfundraising events. ning stages, but Harr encourages anyone “We are a group of like-minded peowho is interested in donating, helping with ple who want to give back to the commulabor or materials or becoming a corponity while creating a bond with others,” rate sponsor to contact him. Visit said Westside Chapter President Todd www.namknightswestside.com or email Harr, who served in the United States Harr at swirl@namknightswestside.com.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

NEW

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FishHawk Hosts August Food Truck Rally Local across the food lovers, street from mark your the Club at calendars. Bevis The next Elementary FishHawk School, but food truck attendees rally will take that live place nearby are Saturday, encouraged August 11 from 5-9 FishHawk Ranch HOA is hosting its p.m. in the quarterly food truck rally on Saturday, Osprey Club August 11 from 5-9 p.m. in the Osprey Club parking lot. parking lot offering a wide variety of culinary choices to ride in one easy location. bikes or “The event is free to attend, just pay walk as for the food,” said Susan Parvin, spots are FishHawk Homeowners Association limited. Coordinator. “This is one of our most popular comParvin is expecting 15 food trucks munity events,” added Parvin. and a mobile DJ truck providing free The trucks are coordinated by Tampa entertainment. Bay Food Trucks which works with hun“This is a very family-friendly event dreds of food trucks offering a wide variand is a great way to meet new people or ety of cuisines from appetizers to drinks spend time with friends and neighbors,” and desserts. said Parvin. The Osprey Club is located at 5721 FishHawk food truck rallies have Osprey Ridge Dr. in Lithia’s FishHawk been taking place since 2013 and the Ranch. To reach Parvin, call 657-6629. HOA hosts four rallies at the Osprey Club For more information on the food trucks, a year. Seating is limited so residents are visit www.tampabayfoodtruckrally.com or encouraged to bring their coolers and call 444-8110. You can also follow the chairs. food trucks on Facebook at www.faceParking for the event is available book.com/tampafoodtruckrally.

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Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

etty P f e i h t, C s e F w e ng & i Br t e e M Officers oreâ&#x20AC;Ś M ichelle Colesanti,

Bolts Brew Fest at Amalie Arena on Friday, August 17, beginning at 7 p.m. The three-hour event will include craft beers from many different local by M m d o e c r. il e p craft breweries, oversized v ser Com spreyob o @ e games, Lightning personll e mich alities and more. General Admission tickets will include unlimited beer sampling and other fun perks to be announced. Chief Petty Officers Meeting There will be more than 100 craft beer varieties from more than 50 local The Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers and national breweries for individuals to Association (TBCPOA) meets the fourth choose from at the event. The full lineup Thursday each month at 6:30 p.m. at of participating breweries will be the Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza in Tampa. The association is announced prior to the event. Craft beer enthusiopen to all Navy and asts can purchase Coast Guard Chief a VIP Admission ticket Petty Officers. It supwhich will allow them ports the Navy comaccess into the event munity and award one hour prior to generan annual scholaral admission. VIP ship to a deserving includes parking, unlimited beer sampling, member or relative of a TBCPOA memearly entry from 6-7 p.m. for an extra hour ber. The TBCPOA holds fund raisers for of sampling without the crowds, access to the scholarship fund during the year and Amalie Arena's Lexus Lounge featuring coordinates with the active duty Chiefs exclusive VIP-only beer and food, Association (Suncoast CPOA) at MacDill a Tampa Bay Lightning AFB for many of these events. Locker Room Tour and Included are the activities at MacDill one complimentary tickand the annual Army-Navy game at et voucher for one a Beef O'Brady's in the area. The Tampa Bay Lightning TBCPOA has a closed FaceBook pre-season game. group, TBCPOA, with a meeting calTickets for the endar of events. For more informaevent are on sale. tion, call Chuck Peterman, Tickets can be purPresident, at 767-1569. chased by going to Tampa Bay Lightning To Host Second Ticketmaster.com. General Admission through July 5 is Annual Bolts Brew Fest $35. Early bird through July 20 is $45 The Tampa Bay Lightning and$55 through August 16. The cost is announced today that they will be hosting

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Page 9

New Principals Named For Bevis And Boyette Springs Elementary Schools

By Kate Quesada

When students at two Teachers and local schools head back Who’s Who in to the classroom this the World. month, they will have new “First and faces leading the way. foremost, I am Lithia’s Colleen Bevis and looking forward Riverview’s Boyette to meeting all Springs elementary the wonderful schools have new princimembers of my pals looking forward to new BSE famiwelcoming families and ly,” said teachers to the 2017-18 McCrystal, a school year. Valrico resiNew principal dent, avid Rebecca Thoms is reader and already a well-loved memactive member ber of the Bevis of New Hope Jennifer McCrystal is the new principal at Boyette Springs Elementary Elementary family where United School which includes the Hillsborough County Center for Gifted Studies. she served as the Methodist in school’s assistant princiChurch most recently spent three years as the pal for the last five years. Brandon. “I am humbled to become assistant principal at Sheehy A long-time Brandon-area part of such a wonderful legacy left by Elementary School in Tampa. resident, Thoms has those who came before me and am Bevis Elementary is located at taught in every level of looking forward to furthering their com5720 Osprey Ridge Dr. In Lithia and Rebecca Thoms was recently named principal of Colleen education from kindermitment to excellence.” can be reached at 740-4000. Bevis Elementary in Lithia. garten to twelfth grade in McCrystal moved to the Brandon Jennifer McCrystal took over what we can do to make our school as in 1994 and raised her children in local schools and, as a graduate of area recently as the principal at Boyette safe as possible while still making sure Brandon High, is a product of HCPS. Her son is a senior at Durant Springs Elementary (BSE) School in that we are encouraging partnerships Hillsborough County Public Schools High School this year and her daughRiverview which houses HCPS’s where family members can feel wel(HCPS) herself. ter recently graduated from Flagler Gifted Center choice program attract“I am so honored to be taking over come to come in and eat meals with College. ing students from throughout the area. the students and volunteer in the this role,” said Thoms. “I am looking “My plan is ‘Listen, Learn and McCrystal, who spent the last four classrooms,” she said. forward to working with our amazing Lead,’” said McCrystal. “Listen to what years as principal at Bryan Elementary Parent to a Bevis graduate and teachers and staff to continue to make students, teachers and families need, in Plant City, began teaching for HCPS two current Bevis students, Thoms Bevis the best it can be.” learn how to best accomplish those in 1992. Her career highlights include credits the school’s teachers with creThoms, whose role as principal aspirations and lead BSE and the being named Teacher of the Year at for Gifted Studies into a bright was approved at a school board meet- ating a positive environment she is Center Valrico Elementary School where she excited to lead. ing last month, feels that the biggest future for generations to come.” taught second and third grade for eight Filling her former role as assistant issue facing the school this year is BSE is located at 10141 years, being a finalist for District principal is Dr. Diane Levy who has security. Sedgebrook Dr. In Riverview and can Teacher of the Year and being named “We are working hard to determine been with HCPS for 15 years and be reached at 671-5060. to Who’s Who Among America’s

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Help Your Community By Joining County Cooking Oil Recycling Effort

By Manuela Graf

Next time County website. (See you cook a delisteps in box below). cious dinner for C.O.R.E stations your family, do accept only residennot be quick to tial cooking oil. For ignore the silent information on dropkiller of your off locations near home’s plumbyou, visit ing system. http://www.hillsborUsed cooking oughcounty.org. oil is one of the largest issues affecting Hillsborough County’s wastewater collection system and home plumbing. According to the Hillsborough County website, cooking oil that is poured down the drain can solidify and constrict water flow, leading to issues such as overflow, sewage spills, and bad odors in 1. Carefully pour cooled cooking oil into a homes and large, sturdy plastic or wax-coated neighborhoods. container, such as the original container, Join a juice carton, or a Cooking Oil Recycling Hillsborough Effort jug County’s Cooking Oil 2. Cap the container and store in a cool, Recycling Effort safe location (C.O.R.E) to help 3. Don’t mix the oil with any other liquids your community or products and the environment by follow4. Once the container is full, bring it to a ing these simple Cooking Oil Recycling Effort station or to steps as posted one of our Household Hazardous Waste by the Collection Centers. Hillsborough

Cooking Oil Recycling Effort (C.O.R.E.)

Volume 17, Issue 8

Local Cancer Survivors Gain Confidence And Help Others By Kate Quesada

Riverview resident Susie Morris is one of many women fighting cancer who have participated in The Affirmations Project which aims to give women confidence while raising money to help others in need.

Five years ago Adriana Pabon had an idea that is saving lives. Pabon, a breast cancer survivor, created The Affirmations Project which not only gives confidence to women battling disease but also raises money to help those in financial need. The Project unites women who have cancer and survivors when they participate in an artistic photoshoot with a professional photographer where a word of affirmation is painted on them. The photographs are then displayed at an annual art exhibit fundraiser where the money raised goes directly to help a local woman with her medical expenses. “My dream is to inspire women to look at themselves and see love,” said Pabon, who underwent a double mastectomy almost five years ago. “It is so important that as women we see that our value goes beyond how we look.” Riverview resident Susie Morris par-

ticipated in the Project after having her eye removed due to an ocular melanoma. She feels that the community developed from The Affirmations Project saved her life. “I truly had no selfesteem after losing my eye,” said Morris. “I hated looking in the mirror every day, but doing the Project changed me in so many ways. It taught me that I am beautiful and gave me confidence I’ve never had before. It taught me to love myself for the first time in my entire life.” Pabon also uses the Project to connect women fighting cancer through a website and private Facebook page. “It is amazing what a feeling of community can do for someone going through something so life changing,” she said. The women also come together at the annual gala when the photographs are unveiled on canvases to all all those in attendance. “The event heals in so many ways,” said Pabon, who explains that after choosing their word of affirmation, all the women are artistically painted from the waste up for the photographs. For more information about The Affirmation Project, visit www.theaffirmationsproject.com, call 618-7125 or find the group on Facebook.

August 2018

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 11

County Dedicates Newly Kids Learn Water Safety At The Park World’s Largest Swimming Lesson Renovated Paul Sanders Tree By Kate Quesada By Sammie Green

type of situation,” Hickie said. “They are going to know how to float and they are going to know how to turn themselves over and swim back to the side of the pool.” Many participants were involved in BSAC’s summer camps and were excited to take part

The kids practiced kicking drills to start off the swim lesson.

Last month, hundreds of aquatic centers around the world participated in the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson to raise awareness for water safety among children. Summer is one of the worst times of year for drowning accidents, so it is the best time to teach kids how to swim. As a sixth-year participant of World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center hosted over 100 kids aged 4 to 14 to educate them about the importance of water safety. Participants Deyana Marie Flannigan and Hosted by BSAC’s aquatic director, Alyssa Russell enjoyed learning about Theresa Hickie, there was swimming, a water safety. DJ, snow cones and prizes to make the in this event. Participants Deyana Marie event fun and informative for the kids. Flannigan and Alyssa Russell both said BSAC’s swim instructors and coachswimming was their favorite thing to do at es taught the children how to swim. BSAC and the WLSL was their new Different water drills, such as kicking and favorite event. rhythmic breathing, were taught in the 30For info on the World’s Largest minute lesson. Swimming lesson, visit world“It is just so rewarding knowing that slargestswimminglesson.org. For info these kids are going to be able to help about BSA, visit mybsac.org or call 689themselves if they were to get into any 0908.

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Hillsborough County held a dedication and tree planting ceremony at Paul Sanders Park in Brandon last month.

One of the Brandon area’s favorite parks received a face lift recently. The county celebrated the end of a two phase renovation project at Paul Sanders Park, located at the intersection of Bloomingdale and Kings Avenues, with a dedication and tree planting ceremony last month. The park, known for its shaded areas thanks to many large trees, received a new, expanded playground with next-generation equipment in the first phase of the renovation last year and an additional parking area and entrance, water bottle filling station and security fence in the recently completed second phase. “This park has always been special to our department because we realize how special it is to the community,” said Director of Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation, Rick Valdez at the dedication event. “It is one of the most heavily used parks in the county and it deserved some upgrades to make it even more

enjoyable.” The new playground equipment was carefully chosen to encourage children of all abilities to climb, run and play and includes pieces designed to help children on the autism spectrum who can become over stimulated in traditional playground situations. “The thought that went in to making sure the playground is accessible to all is much appreciated,” said Brandon Chamber of Commerce President Rick Lewis. “It is places like this that help Brandon continue to be one of the best places to work, live and play.” At the end of the dedication ceremony, county officials and community leaders joined a group of children in planting a magnolia tree in the park. “Trees are one of the reasons this park is so popular, so it is very fitting that we are dedicating it with a new tree that can be enjoyed by generations to come,” said County Commissioner Stacy White during the event. “The county’s great love for resources and care for our families is evident through the work put into this project.” Paul Sanders Park is located at 3319 S. Kings Ave. For more information, visit www.hcflGOV.net.

Page 12

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 8

Experts Offer Tips For Staying Safe During Florida Lightning Season

By Kate Quesada

According to Daniel The Lightning Noah, Warning Protection Coordination Institute (LPI), a Meteorologist with the nationwide notNational Weather for-profit organiService, there are, on zation founded in average, 1,170,979 1955 to promote flashes of lightning in lightning protection education, Florida each year. awareness and Because Brandon area safety, works with residents see lightning builders and so often, it is easy to forhomeowners to get how much dampromote lightage it can do. ning safety and “Lightning in improve the sciFlorida has caused ence of lightning $39.8 million in damprotection. The age to 284 properties group’s Website, over the last 10 at www.lightyears,” said Noah, not ning.org, offers including the recent extensive inforapartment fire in mation about Riverview which was On average, lightning strikes more than one million times a year in Florida. The National Weather Service and The Lightning protection from likely caused by one of two lightning strikes Protection Institute offer residents tips to avoid injury and damage from lightning on their websites. Photo credit to The Lightning lightning strikes. Protection Institute. “A lightning in the area. “There when thunderstorms are in the area,” metal vehicle immediately and finally, protection system is a network of comhave been 47 lightning deaths and said Noah. “If you hear thunder you rule three states that it is important to ponents designed to intercept a light281 injuries during that time and the are likely within striking distance of wait 30 minutes after the last lightning ning strike and provide a preferred longterm average in Florida is nine the storm. Just remember, “When or thunder before going back outside. path to the ground,” said LPI fatalities and 40 injuries a year.” thunder roars, go indoors.” In addition, the NWS recommends Communications Director Kimberly In June, 33-year-old Seffner resiThe NWS Website, at www.weaththat residents know that even inside Loehr. “The system discharges the dent, James Barton, was at Siesta er.org, offers a large variety of tips the home, they are not totally safe from dangerous electricity, leaving occuBeach with friends when he was sudabout lightning and how to reduce its lighting. pants and the structure safe from denly struck by lightning and killed. risk, but three featured rules go along According to the Website, anything harm.” The majority of injuries from lightway to helping residents stay safe. that is plugged into a wall outlet can For more information and safety ning occur when people are engaging Rule number one states that resibecome electrified by a nearby lighting tips from the NWS, visit in leisure activities outside. The dents should plan ahead so as not to strike. It recommends that residents www.weather.gov or email National Weather Service (NWS) get caught outside in a thunderstorm. stay off electrical equipment, appliDr.Lightning@noaa.gov. To learn more offers one main tip for people to avoid The second rule advises that upon ances and corded phones and avoid about lightning protection systems, visit being hurt. hearing thunder, residents get inside a contact with plumbing, including sinks www.lightning.org. “There is no safe place outside substantial building or hard-topped and tubs, during storms.

August 2018

Page 13

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Habitat For Humanity Opens New ReStore Location In Brandon

By Cat Wright

teers and more celebrate the completion of the home and program with a special Key Giving ceremony. Anna Brooks, General Manager for the new Brandon ReStore, said, “I have personally met and gotten to know some of these families very well. The most rewarding opportunity I have had is attending Key Giving ceremonies for deserving candidates that have met all the In addition to homeownership programs, Habitat for Humanity offers salvage/deconstruction and home preservation programs to help families in need.

Brandon shoppers have a new location for finding deals. Habitat Hillsborough opened a new ReStore location in Brandon on Saturday, July 14. The store, located at 501 W. Robertson St., is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and will be closed on Sundays and Mondays. Shoppers will be able to find Shoppers or donate furniture, appliances, home decor, lighting, will be able to hardware, building materials find or donate and much more at the Brandon ReStore. new and gently used furniture, appliances, household goods and much more. A detailed list of donatable items can be found online, or donors can call the donation hotline at 540-7540 to make an appointment or inquiry. Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida (HFHHC) is a nonprofit organization that provides affordable new homes to lower income families. To be eligible for the homeownership program, candidates must have lived or worked in Hillsborough County for at least one year, and show that they are living in an unsafe home environment or are struggling to make rent payments. In addition to meeting required guidelines, applicants will complete a certain amount of sweat equity at local ReStore locations and other HFHHC build sites. Homeowner candidates will also complete courses in home maintenance, financial management, credit repair, and even conflict resolution. The homeowner’s family and friends, volun-

Congratulations to our own

Vanessa Bevington for once again being named a RISING STAR for 2018 by SUPER LAWYERS MAGAZINE

Each year, no more than 2.5 percent of the lawyers in Florida are selected to receive this honor. We are proud to have Vanessa as part of our team! Ms. Bevington offers free consultations regarding any family law related matter including divorce, alimony, time sharing, child support, paternity, domestic violence injunctions, and modifications. The homeowner’s family and friends, volunteers that helped build the home, HFHHC employees and local corporate sponsors celebrate the completion of the home with a Key Giving ceremony.

qualifications to earn a home.” Brooks, who has a background in corporate retail management, added, “I find that it is far more rewarding to work hard knowing my efforts help improve the lives of local families.” Brooks noted that many are unaware of HFHHC’s other programs, including home preservation for families in need. Dedicated volunteers have helped lower income senior citizens, people with disabilities and more with short projects such as lawn care or building ramps. The organization also runs a deconstruction program. Anyone taking on a renovation project can contact HFHHC before demolition to salvage certain unwanted items at no cost. “This amazing program benefits our community in so many ways,” said Brooks, “It saves space in our landfills, the property owner receives an itemized donation receipt, perfectly good items are sold at hard-to-beat prices, and the sales of these items helps us to continue our mission of offering affordable housing.” For more information on Habitat Hillsborough’s programs, or to learn more about getting involved, check out www.habitathillsborough.org.

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Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Family Releases A ‘Bodaciously Awesome’ Weekly Podcast For anyone looking for family vacation ideas, something to do with your kids or just something fun and family-friendly to listen to, you have come to the right spot. The DiMuzio family, from FishHawk, is a fun and active family that creates their own The Bodaciously ‘Bodaciously Awesome Family, Awesome’ podAdam, Anthony and Zachary featuring their cast every week. guest star, Mom. Named ‘The Bodaciously Awesome Family Show,’ Adam, Anthony (age 11) and Zachary (age 6) share their family experiences, whether they are here at home or traveling around the states. Adam came up with the idea to document the experiences with his two sons last summer while in Alaska and the first podcast officially released in October 2017. “We just started the show because I was seeing all the things we do as a family and it was actually a new way to add an element to something we did together and help them (the kids) remember it,” Adam said. “A new way to how we can capture their voices, their personalities, and in places of life.” Anthony described the podcasts as a ‘time capsule’ for the family.

By Sammie Green

Each podcast is about an activity they have done or place they have visited as a family, with Mom making a frequent guest appearance in many of the shows. Families can listen to these podcasts together for some laughs or for ideas of places to visit on family trips. Each podcast has something unique and entertaining about it, from Zachary losing a tooth in the middle of a show to the whole family trying odd foods from Epcot. Adam said the way the family has so many experiences in all these places is simply by “maximizing what you do.” The Bodaciously Awesome Family Show has nearly 6,000 downloads with an audience from near and far. Listeners can find the show on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play Music, Spotify and the Geek Dad Blog. New podcasts are released weekly with a different and fun topic for each one. The Bodaciously Awesome Family Show can also be found on Facebook by searching Bodaciously Awesome Family Show or on Twitter at @BodaciousFamily.

Skyway 10K Raises $560k For Military Families, Second Run Planned

Staff Report

The final benefit the Armed numbers are Forces Families in, and the Foundation, a inaugural 501(c)(3) non-profit Sunshine organization that Skyway 10K provides 100 perBridge Run cent of the funds raised they raise back $560,000 for to projects that help the Armed our military service Forces men and women Families and their Foundation, families. Additionally, meaning 100 plans are in place Volunteers and sponsors are being sought for the percent of so all registration second annual Skyway 10K. every regisfees from next tration fee dollar is going to fund projects year’s race will continue to support the to support the families of our service men Armed Forces Families Foundation. and women. Race organizers are sched“With over a year of planning and uled to present a check to the Armed tremendous support from our sponForces Families Foundation at Tropicana sors, partners and private donors we Field in Saint Petersburg, Florida are very proud to announce that every Tuesday and make an announcement dollar of every registration fee is going releasing the date and details for the sec- back to support our military families,” ond annual Skyway 10K. said Brian Horne, Event Director for The sold-out inaugural Skyway 10K the Skyway 10K. “This would not have took place in March and was an overbeen possible if not for the overwhelming success. Participant registration whelming support from our local comfor the run across the Bob Graham munities to support such an iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge realized its tarevent.” geted 7,000 participant capacity only five The annual run begins on I-275 at days after being announced. It was the the rest area just south of the Skyway first running event across the Skyway Bridge and ends at the rest area on Bridge since it opened in 1987. the north side of the bridge, which In all, people from 40 states, three equals 10 kilometers or 6.2 miles. countries and all five branches of the Anyone interested in volunteering United States armed forces participated for or sponsoring the second annual in the run. Skyway 10K can learn more by As planned, 100 percent of the provisiting skyway10k.com or ceeds from the Skyway 10K are going to emailing info@skyway10k.com.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Weird, Wacky And Wonderful Holidays- August 2018

Lighthouse Day * Relaxation Day* Potato Day *World Mosquito Day * Eat Outside Day Did you know that there are an abundance of daily holidays and special days every month? Some are immersed in tradition, while others may be silly, bizarre, unique, special or inspirational. Unofficial Holidays are not traditionally marked on calendars but are celebrated by various groups and individuals. Some are designed to promote a cause or to recognize historical events not recognized officially, while others are fun holidays, generally intended to just be humorous. So, in the midst of our busy lives, maybe consider taking time to enjoy some of the entertaining but lesser-known holidays throughout the year. Welcome to August! It’s hot, we’re in the third month of summertime and the kids are savoring the last few days sleeping and swimming before they head back to school. But, did you know August is the only month without any kind of holiday? That’s right - there are no holidays in August! None. Every other month has either a federal holiday, or a celebratory day to eat and drink, or at least a day to buy someone an overpriced greeting card. But, not poor August. Up until now, the only notable thing attributed to August was watching my mother pay homage to the King of Rock-n-Roll, Elvis Presley, on the day of his passing every August 16 since 1977. Well, good news! There are many unofficial holidays worth celebrating throughout the entire month! Let’s get a shining start on the month by paying homage to the silent, but bright guardians of our coastlines and ships - the majestic lighthouse. Tuesday, August 7 is National Lighthouse Day honoring our nation’s lighthouses that have been guiding ships safely back to port during inclement weather for hundreds of years. On August 7, 1789, through an Act of Congress and signed by President George Washington, a new law was established giving the Federal Government control of our nation’s light-

houses. With new GPS technology, lighthouses today have become more of a symbol of safe harbor. Did you know there are 29 lighthouses in Florida? To celebrate this day, take a short day trip and visit one of the several lighthouses in our area. It’s a short drive to the Anclote lighthouse in Tarpon Springs, the Egmont Key lighthouse in St. Petersburg or the Gasparilla lighthouse on Boca Grande. Notably, when the Egmont Key lighthouse was built in 1848, it was the only lighthouse on the Gulf coast of Florida between Key West and the panhandle. It was damaged by hurricanes and repaired several times throughout the 1800’s. The lens was removed by Confederates during the Civil War to frustrate the Union Navy efforts to blockade Tampa Bay but was restored after the war. The Coast Guard continued to man the lighthouse until 1990, when it became one of the last lighthouses in the United States to be automated. In 2001 the Coast Guard announced plans to deactivate the light, but as of today has not done so. The lighthouse can be reached only by boat, with ferry service available from the Fort De Soto State Park. For more information, visit www. www.floridastateparks.org/park/Egmont-Key. After a fun day visiting lighthouses, you may just want to put your feet up and relax. Well, good news! Wednesday, August 15 is National Relaxation Day. Who doesn’t love a day of relaxing? Relaxation is just as essential to a successful life as hard work, so it deserves a special day. Take a deep breath, slow

down and take it easy. Spend the day relaxing and de-stressing. After all, it’s the last few weeks of these lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer. Kick back and enjoy a cold beverage in your backyard, read a book in your hammock, sleep the whole day long, float in your pool or spend the day in your pajamas watching TV. Want even more relaxation? Call Daniella’s Mobile Massage at 323-4901. You wont even have to leave your house. You say potAto, I say po-TOTto…but, regardless of how you say it, we can all agree to give a great, big hip-hiphooray for our beloved spuds! On Sunday, August 19 take a moment to reflect on these tasty taters on National Potato Day. The spectacular spud can be savored for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With the recent popularity of the Keto and Adkin diets, these terrific taters need at least one day of love. Potatoes are one of the largest vegetable crops in the world. Did you know that more than 45 billion pounds of potatoes are harvested in the United States each year? Our starchy friend contains high levels of important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium and iron. Another fun fact: The world’s largest potato weighed in at 18lbs., 4 oz. according to the Guinness Book of World Records. That’s enough for 73 portions of medium fries at McDonalds. So, don’t be a ‘hesi-TATER’ and prepare your potato your favorite way and savor your spud! The buzz on Monday, August 20 is in recognition of World Mosquito Day. We are all too familiar with those flying, biting, pesky creatures that invade our daily lives. At one time or another, we have all

By Kelly Wise Valdes

been bitten by the merciless mosquito. On this day in 1897, British doctor, Sir Ronald Ross, discovered the link between mosquitos and the transmission of malaria, an infectious disease caused by mosquitos. Ross was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine for his discovery. The goal of this day is to raise awareness of causes of Malaria and to learn methods of prevention. Mosquitoes carry other diseases, including the dangerous Zika virus. If you want to fight the bite, consider donating to the Malaria No More campaign, which raises funds to provide mosquito netting and medical supplies to communities in need. Donations of any amount can save a child’s life by providing medical treatment or a mosquito net. To make a donation online, visit www.malarianomore.org. Regardless of the meddling mosquitos, grab some repellant and head outside with your whole crew and enjoy National Eat Outside Day on Tuesday, August 31. Outdoor enthusiast can rejoice while relishing a meal underneath the sun, sky or stars. Al-fresco dining became popular in the 18th century when it became common to eat outside in tea gardens, seashore resorts and rooftop restaurants. The first sidewalk cafés appeared on the streets of Manhattan in the early 1900’s. Our community is filled to the brim with restaurants with outside patios; the options to eat outside are practically endless. You may want to check out Circles Waterfront Restaurant in Apollo Beach, Jimmy Hula’s in Brandon, or visit Armature Works in Tampa for a variety of outside eating adventures. August boasts many other fun holidays including, National Watermelon Day, National Underwear Day, Left-hander’s Day, Frankenstein Day and National Trail Mix day, just to name a few. For a complete list, visit www.holidayinsights.com.

Page 16

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Happy Patients At Hyde Park Plastic Surgery Center

By Michelle Caceres

Cosmetic surgery is Hyde Park Surgery no longer the sneaky Center charges a $50 consecret it once was and sultation fee, which is today patients are far less applied to any procedures concerned about hiding performed. how they achieved their Rieger is a board-certiimproved body features. fied plastic surgeon with Hyde Park Plastic more than 33 years’ experiSurgery Center owner ence in the field. He trained Frank Rieger, M.D. said a under Ralph Millard, M.D., satisfied patient left his a highly decorated plastic office after a follow-up surgeon, named one of 10 Dr. Rieger of Hyde Park appointment and proudly ‘“Plastic Surgeons of the Surgery Center has seen revealed her new breasts Millennium’ by the many happy patients in his in his parking lot to a Society of Plastic American more than 33 years as a plastic surgeon. woman coming to the Surgeons. Rieger has dedioffice for a consultation for the same procated himself to excellence in the pursuit cedure. of the aesthetic aspect of plastic surgery. While it’s not often patients display As a result, not every candidate is qualithat level of enthusiasm, he said cosmetic fied for the procedure they request. surgery has become mainstream and it is “Every now and then I have to tell a more common for men and women to patient that I will not perform the procefind a plastic surgeon by word-of-mouth, dure she requests,” he said. which takes the challenge out of finding a In addition to surgical procedures, qualified practice. Hyde Park Plastic Surgery Center’s A search of Hyde Park Plastic Medical Spa offers Botox and other derSurgery Center on www.realself.com mal fillers, facial chemical peels, microbrings up more than 100 positive reviews dermabrasion and laser resurfacing. with comments from patients delighted Located at 607 S. Magnolia Ave. in a with the results of their tummy tucks, quaint 1904 vintage house in Hyde Park breast augmentations, facelifts, liposucthat is listed on the National Register of tion or rhinoplasty. Historic Places, Hyde Park Surgery “Patients today have many more Center’s office hours are Monday and avenues of knowledge open to them Wednesday 9 a.m.–12 Noon and before they even visit a plastic surgeon Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. for a consultation,” said Rieger. “They go For more information about Hyde to the Internet, talk to their friends and Park Surgery Center visit www.hydeparkthey come to the consultation knowing cosmeticsurgery.com or to schedule a more about the procedures they want.” consultation call 254-7600.

Volume 17, Issue 8

August 2018

Page 17

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Veteran Gets Roof Repair Thanks To Local Company And National Program

By Stacy Huisman

Cardinal Roofing shows its gratitude for military veteran Thomas Boone for his service by repairing his leaky roof.

Riverview resident, Thomas Boone, had a leaky roof. In the past, he would have grabbed his ladder, climbed to the roof and fixed it himself. But as a 91 year-old Korean War Veteran, climbing a ladder to fix a leak didn’t seem like the easiest of tasks. According to friends and family, Boone is not one who likes to ask for help. That’s when neighbors and family of Boone decided to reach out to Homes For Heroes (HOH). HOH is national program designed to save military, first responders, medical professionals and educators money when buying or selling their home. They also donate proceeds to local heroes in need. Dan Ruszowski, a sales consultant for Cardinal Roofing was contacted by HOH to see if they could offer assistance to the local war veteran. After hearing his story, Ruszowski met with Boone,

assessed his roof and assured him that Cardinal Roofing was able to repair the minor leak. Cardinal Roofing is a proud supporter of other local veteran programs such as Honor Flight in Tampa and Flight of Honor in Lakeland. But according to owner Roger Jenkins and his daughter Bridget Wilson, this request was something they wanted to consider. “Dan was really the guy who made this happened, he was the one willing to do the work. He has a big heart for this, the credit goes to him,” said

Wilson. Ruszowski met Boone outside of s home, shook his hand. Cardinal Roofing went to work, fixed the leak just in time for the next summer storm. No need for the spry 91-year old to climb any ladders. “That generation doesn’t like to ask for help, but I’m sure glad I was able to,” said Ruszowski For more information about Homes for Heroes, visit www.homesforheroes.com.

First Time Cruising? Here’s What You Should Know! Believe it or not, there is not a one-size fits all when it comes to cruising or any vacation. There is a cruise vacation out there for everyone, but there are several considerations when deciding which ship is right for you. Consider these options: 1. Family trip –Kids program, family fun activities and adult-only activities such as spa or entertainment 2. Expedition – Adventure and off the beaten path destinations, active voyages 3. River – Cultural destinations, explore cities not accessible by large ships, dinners focus on regional flavors 4. Luxury – Five-star personalized service, small to mid-size ships, exclusive destinations 5. Destinations – Itinerary is most important aspect of cruise vacation Once onboard a cruise ship there is no need to spend any additional money because the entertainment, food and activities are included. Additional amenities are available at a small fee to enhance your vacation, such as specialty dining, a drink package, shore excursions or even spa treatments. It is possible to customize your cruise to fit your every desire. “Cruising allows you to visit multiple cities and countries and you only have to unpack once. It is a fantastic way to see the world,” said Jenifer Breaux, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in Lithia. “However, with so much information available on the internet, it is tough to know what cruise vacation is right for you. Consulting a travel agent will help you in selecting the best options for your vacation.” For more information or to be matched with the vacation of your dreams, please call Jenifer Breaux of Dream Vacations at 813.667.7000 or visit www.JBVacationPros.com. About Dream Vacations Launched in 2016, Dream Vacations A CruiseOne Company is a franchise opportunity that is part of World Travel Holdings, the world’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure Travel Company. Dream Vacations franchisees have unrivaled buying power to offer the best prices and exclusive offers when selling memorable vacation experiences such as cruises, resort stays and land tours.

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Page 18

Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

e, s u o H n e Op e ry t s y M r e M u rd re . . . o e Colesanti, &M ell by Mich d m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e ll e mich

Open House And Religious School Enrollment

The Board of Congregation Beth Shalom (CBS) cordially invites you to its annual Open House on Sunday August 5 from 9:30 a.m.-12 Noon. Acquaint yourself with Congregation Beth Shalom’s dynamic and varied educational and spiritual programming which is designed to address the wants and needs of the wide demographic that is representative of its family. CBS provides opportunities for congregants to perform mitzvot and fundraising for important causes. Additionally, this will be a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with its Religious School and enroll your children in classes. Religious school classes are

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This is a completely interacdesigned to meet the educative event and dinner. Guests can tional needs of children in take the role of suspect, or detecKindergarten through tive as everyone questions the Confirmation. A new cuttingsuspects and examines the eviedge Religious School curdence as to figure out the murriculum which has been derer and to win prizes. specifically developed for This is a fun, entertaining CBS is being launched. and family friendly evening open Congregation to everyone. Tickets are $20 for President, Richie Bauman, CBS members and $25 for nonsaid, “We have taken input members; children under age 13 from our families and consultare $5. A full course dinner will ed with Hebrew school professionals feature a chicken or vegetarian to modernize the curriculum and Family YMCA Happy Stitchers Club donated 42 entree, sides and dessert. create a program that is not only rich The Campo blankets to the VA Hospital in early June. For more information, please with Jewish tradition, but a fun and will be transformed in time and space as call the CBS office at 681-6547 or rewarding experience for our children.” it becomes a Garden District Mansion in visit www.bethshalom-brandon.org to A fun, introductory Torah Tots prothe heart of New Orleans during Mardi purchase tickets. Please email the CBS gram for prekindergarten children and Gras. Unfortunately, the host has been office if you would like the role of one of their parents is also offered. There is also murdered and you might be the number the eight suspects at cbs-admin@hotan active Youth Group which is affiliated one suspect. mail.com. with the North American Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY). For more information, please call the CBS office at 681-6547 or visit www.bethshalom-brandon.org.

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Page 19

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

TFO Announces Guidelines For 2018-19 Student Composition Competition

Staff Report

New guidelines are being set for the Florida Orchestra’s Student Composition Competition open to all Florida universities and colleges with a music composition department.

Next season, The Florida Orchestra will open its Student Composition Competition to all Florida universities and colleges with a music composition department, encompassing about a dozen schools, the orchestra said in announcing new guidelines for the 2018-19 season. Music Director Michael Francis and a panel of TFO staff and musicians will choose the winning work, which the orchestra will premiere on the final TFO Masterworks series concerts May 24-26, 2019. The winner also will receive a $1,000 honorarium. The competition underscores TFO’s commitment to education and to music as a living art form, focusing on Florida talent. “We’re showing that as the third biggest state, we have an incredible artistic voice,” Maestro Francis said. This year’s winner, Shattered Clock Fanfare by David Browne of Florida Atlantic University, was featured on the Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony concert on May 18-20 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater. The first round of the selection

process will be blind, and the committee will have no knowledge of the composers or their schools. Up to four finalists will be chosen for a ‘reading session,’ in which The Florida Orchestra will play through each finalist’s work, on March 19, 2019. General guidelines include: Each university or college may submit up to two works for TFO’s consideration. The orchestra suggests each school hold an internal competition, but it’s up to the school. The competition is open to any composition major, regardless of specific discipline (i.e. classical or jazz), or degree program (i.e. bachelors or masters). The work should be between three and six minutes in length. Important dates include: December 21, 2018: Deadline for schools to submit complete student score(s) and accompanying recording, resume and artist statement for consideration January 11, 2019: Finalists announced March 19, 2019: Florida Orchestra reading session of finalists’ works at University of South Florida School of Music March 22, 2019: Winning composer/composition announced For information, visit www.floridaorchestra.org/blog.

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Page 20

Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

ns, o i t i d u A Dance Groups & Support ore... M

dancer to participate in ballet classes five to six days a week. The Dance Center offers private coaching with international instructors for dancers enrolled , ti n a into this program. Dancers may s le helle Co ic M y b also have the opportunity to d m Compile preyobserver.co s enter into the Youth American o @ michelle Grand Prix (YAGP) and the American Dance Competition (ADC). Admittance into the program is by audition only which will be held during Auditions Being Held For Admittance July and August. Classes are held on Monday and Friday from 1Into Dance Program 3 p.m. Other opportunities The Dance Center in include being a part of the Brandon, is currently Brandon Ballet, Tampa offering a PreBay’s premier Ballet Professional Training Company. Program for dancers who To audition, call The are seriously interested Dance Center at 684-4282. in pursuing a professional career in ballet. The Hawthorne Hosts program’s primary focus Parkinson’s Disease is on technique with an Support emphasis on stage presGroup ence, pointe and variations. Dancers pursuing The Dance Center will Hawthorne a career as a profession- be holding auditons in July and August. Health & al artist need to be introRehabilitation duced to the classical Center hosts variations that can be required as a proa monthly support group for those diagfessional. This program will allow the

nosed with Parkinson’s Disease and caregivers on the third Thursday of every month. A variety of speakers will provide information on topics relating to swallowing, balance, walking, speaking, mobility, exercise, self-care, Pictured L-R: James Johnson Chaplain, Market Fosker Honor Flight, Brian Frank Commandant and James Maines Judge cognition, and Advocate. memory, all of which can be diabetes, low vision and other diseases. impacted by Parkinson’s Disease. For more information or to register, The Parkinson’s Disease support call 661-8998 Monday-Friday from 9 group is free of charge and open to a.m.-5 p.m. those who have been diagnosed with the disease, family members, caregivers and Donation Made To Honor Flight Of anyone with an interest in learning more West Central Florida about Parkinson’s. The Sgt. Walter P. Ryan Detachment Hawthorne Health & Rehabilitation of the Marine Corps League made a Center, located at 851 W. Lumsden Rd. $1000 donation to Honor Flight of West in Brandon, is a skilled nursing facility Central Florida at the detachments with inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation monthly meeting on July 3. Honor Flight programs including speech, physical and flies WWII, Korean War and Vietnam vetoccupational therapies. Hawthorne also erans on a one day all expense paid trip hosts a dementia support group in the for the veteran to visit those memorials assisted living facility, as well as past dedicated to their honor and sacrifices at meetings for those dealing with strokes, the Nation’s Capital.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Keep Pets Vaccinated After Rabies Reports

By Dr. Jennifer Challenger DVM, MPH ferrets can be vaccinated against rabies. Pets are vaccinated by your veterinarian to prevent them from acquiring diseases such as Rabies from wildlife and thereby preventing transmittion to humans. Ask your veterinarian how often your pets should be vaccinated. -Keep your pets inside and supervise them when outside. Never let you pets run loose unless in a confined area such as a fenced in yard and under supervision. This will help keep your pets from coming in contact with wild animals. Spay or neuter your pets to help reduce the number of unwanted pets that may not be properly cared for or vaccinated regularly. -Report stray animals to local authorities. Call your local animal control officials or other local law enforcement to report stray dogs and cats. -Don't approach wild animals. Wild animals with rabies may seem unafraid of people. It's not normal for a wild animal to be friendly with people, so stay away from any animal that seems unafraid. -Keep bats out of your home. Seal any cracks and gaps where bats can enter your home. If you know you have bats in your home, work with local experts to find ways to keep them out of your home. Dr. Challenger works at Meadowrun Affordable Pet Care in Brandon and can be reached at 685-7775 for more information.

By Manuela Graf

The Emergency start ECHO Handmade in December 2016 Care Help Organization by creating unique (ECHO) in Brandon is leather accessories, well-known for the resources and aid it proworks alongside artivides for residents in san Roslyn Johnson, need. However, a new who makes original bags out of recycled ties, suits, extension of ECHO is not leather and even jewelry. as well-known. ECHO Johnson, who first Handmade helps provide came to ECHO a path to stability as well Shoppers can purchase amazing, Handmade in October as helps the environoriginal leather accessories made ment. by Frank Jones, who helped start 2017, makes the most ECHO Handmade in 2016. ECHO Handmade out of her time at ECHO allows locals who may and is currently enrolled have at first come to ECHO in need of in a GED class and money management help to begin working as artisans in class, while Jones participates in ECHO’s ECHO’s Opportunity Center. Here one Job-for-Job program. can walk in and find friendly faces work“I enjoy coming to the classes, I love ing hard to make beautiful and unique the people that I work around and they are just very beautiful,” said Johnson. pieces out of completely recycled materiECHO Handmade is not just a small als. side business, according to Mazza, but Excess clothing donated to ECHO so much more. that would otherwise go to the salvage “We continue to serve the community truck is now turned into creative and qualas far as making sure the people who ity accessories, as well as provides a livwere once hungry or once were not staing wage to those who once may have ble in that poverty mindset can come and been unemployed. have that bridge become more stable,” Social Enterprise Coordinator Taylor Mazza helps out in the ECHO Handmade she said. ECHO Handmade’s products can be workroom, where the artisans and volunfound at the Green Boutique, located at teers in the community come together on 1032 Bloomingdale Ave., and Revolution Wednesdays to help create accessories, Ice Cream, located at 220 W. Brandon ranging from $10 to $30. “Graduates of the GED program can Blvd. To view ECHO Handmade’s online store or to find more information on come and work for us to acquire some donating or volunteering, visit professional references and work history https://echofl.org. You can also shop at its so they can go into more permanent Facebook, ECHO Handmade, or employment,” she said. Instagram at @echohandmadestore. Artisan Frank Jones, who helped

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Page 22

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Andrew’s Aluminum Shows Anyone Can Make A Difference By Mia Cafaro

It can be ical equipment extremely diffiand benefitting cult for adults the hospital in living with speother ways. cial needs to Spruill find employhimself is very ment, but 20excited by the year-old growth of his Andrew Spruill business and has found a the possibility creative way to of having earn some more indemoney and pendence in help the envithe future. He Andrew collects cans from neighbors and businesses is extremely ronment. in order to make money. Spruill has grateful to his autism and cerebral palsy, and is hoping mother, Tina Spruill, who originally to earn money in order to move out and came up with the idea, and helped him gain independence. With the help of his get started. mother, and the community, he started “My family has taken such great Andrew’s Aluminum. This is a small busicare of me, but I think I can do better,” ness in which Spruill collects aluminum Spruill said. He dreams of being able to cans from neighbors and local businesssupport his family and help out his pares, crushes them, and then turns them in ents. He also has ambitious business to Trademark Metals Recycling in Dover goals, and says that after seeing the for money. support from the community pour in, he Though Spruill started Andrew’s felt like Walt Disney. “I feel like God has Aluminum only a few weeks ago, he has lifted me up and shown me everything received incredible support from the com- I’ve learned and what the human permunity. He has bins at Art Monkey in son is,” Spruill said. FishHawk, and at The Village Early Andew’s Aluminum is now open to Learning Center, where locals can leave all types of aluminum scrap metal, from their cans for him to collect. He is hoping scuba tanks to soda cans. In one fell to expand on this, and add more bins at swoop, Spruill is helping himself, the various locations soon. environment, Shriners Hospital, and In addition to recycling all of the cans inspiring other adults with special needs he collects, Spruill is helping Shriners who may feel like they have no options. Hospital for Children as well. Through a More information about Andrew’s friend, he donates the can pull-tabs to the Aluminum can be found at hospital. The hospital then recycles them andrewthecanman.com or on the and all money goes to buying new medAndrew’s Aluminum Facebook page.

Volume 17, Issue 8

County Sheriff’s Office Hosts Second Coffee With A Cop

By Kate Quesada

Hillsborough year is to get out County Sheriff’s more in the comOffice (HCSO) munity,” said community Rodriguez. resource deputies The HCSO Breanna hosted a sucRodriguez and cessful Coffee Clifford Fletcher with a Cop in want to help you early May in get to know your Riverview that local law enforcewas well attendment. Residents Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office community ed by community resource deputies invite residents to join them members and are invited to for coffee at Moreno Bakery on Friday, August attend the second business own17 from 8-9:30 a.m. Coffee with a Cop ers. event on Friday, August 17 at 8 a.m. at “We met some really great people,” Brandon’s Moreno Bakery. said Fletcher, a Riverview resident. According to Rodriguez, deputies The event will be an open forum, so from throughout residents are encouraged to Hillsborough County’s attend any time during between 8 and 9:30 a.m. to District V, which includes mingle with the officers and areas of Valrico, Brandon other interested in citizens and Riverview, and while drinking coffee. Hillsborough County Sheriff Residents who are not Chad Chronister are planable to attend the event, but ning to attend the event. who are interested in getting “Our goal is to bring the to know their local officers, community together and are invited to visit Fletcher give residents the opportuniand Rodriguez at the Bloomingdale ty to have relaxed and open conversations with our officers,” said Rodriguez. Community Substation, located at 3622 “We feel that the more face time we can Erindale Dr. between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., have with residents, especially back and Monday-Friday. The station also forth conversations, the better bond we responds to property crime and handles will have with the community.” community complaints and fraud reports A Valrico resident, Rodriguez has for the Bloomingdale area. For more been one of the two community resource information, call the station at 635-8040. deputies in the Bloomingdale office for a Moreno Bakery is located at 737 W. year this month. Brandon Blvd. and can be reached at “One of our goals for the office this 689-0320.

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August 2018

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

August 2018

Volume 17, Issue 8

Ph: 657-2418

InThis Section LIVING GLUTEN FREE......................PG 27 BACK TO SCHOOL LUNCHEON........PG 28 SENIOR PROM PROPSAL.................PG 30 SPORTS CONNECTION .............PGS 32‐33 BET‐A‐BUCK FUNDRAISER ..............PG 34

Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Club Pilates Opening

share a total commitment to safety.” As part of its phosphate fertilClub Pilates izer produchas been open tion, Mosaic a few months, employs but finally celemore than brated its mem3,000 directbership with Club Pilates recently held a ribbon cutting. Central Maintenance and Welding (CMW) has ly in Florida the chamber by TNT Termite and Pest Control is a family-owned busibeen awarded a three-year general mainteand tens of Security ness celebrating eight years. Ed, Bonnie and Andy hosting a ribbon cutting. It offers nance contract for Sulfuric Acid process areas, servicing all four of Mosaic’s Central Florida fer- Tekampe will take care of all your pest control needs. thousands benefits. Reformer Pilates to build core tilizer manufacturing facilities. new contract to a indirectly through contracted services. The strength, balance, posture and flexibilifamiliar partner, CMW. The company Mosaic encourages and supports HCC campus at The Regent is located ty. Monthly memberships are estimates tapping CWM for as many spending activities with local suppliers. available. It is located in the SteinMart at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Call as 80,000 man hours a year which More than 80% of the Phosphate busi626-7575 to make reservations. Leave Plaza, 3438 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in translates to 40-50 jobs and an estiness segment’s supply chain purchasa message after 4:30 p.m. Valrico. For more information, call mated spend of $10 million. es were made with local vendors. 413-4599 or visit Chris Martus, Mosaic’s Vice Central Maintenance And Welding ClubPilates.com/Valrico. President of Procurement said, “Since TNT Termite And Pest Control Awarded Mosaic Service Contract 1966, the team at CMW has been a Celebrates Eight Years Central Maintenance and Welding Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax trusted resource for many companies TNT Termite and Pest Control (CMW), a Hillsborough-based industriAdvisory Group in the phosphate industry, including owned and operated by Ed and al maintenance, fabrication and conClaiming your Social Security benMosaic. As a publicly traded company, Bonnie Tekampe, recently celebrated struction firm, has been awarded a efits at the wrong time could cost your have a responsibility to our we eight years in business. It is located in three-year general maintenance confamily tens of thousands of dollars. A employees and our shareholders to the Valrico/Fishhawk area. TNT actualtract for Sulfuric Acid process areas, seminar will be held at The HCC camcast a wide net in terms of competitive ly stands for Tekampe and Tekampe servicing all four of Mosaic’s Central pus at the Regent on Thursday, contracts. When the strongest propostheir goal is to provide dynamite and fertilizer manufacturing faciliFlorida August 16 and Tuesday, August 21 at al comes from a locally-owned busicustomer service. Ed and Bonnie are ties. CMW will serve as a principal 6 p.m. (promptly) to help you with ness, that’s a win-win for all.” “We’re honored to protect your home or busipartner assisting with on-going general these decisions. Plan to be there by thrilled to continue this next chapter ness by offering solutions to the varimaintenance. Last February, Mosaic 5:45 p.m. This seminar is perfect for with Mosaic,” said CWM President ety of pest problems Florida has to issued a Request for Proposals for its those 58-67 years old. Conrad Varnum. “Our people are highoffer. “Whether it is our pest control contract mechanical and general mainLearn some of the unknown ly skilled in their crafts, know the services tailored to your needs, contenance services in Florida. After a strategies and principles behind the Mosaic sites and most importantly national search, Mosaic awarded the proper timing of taking your Social

Continued on next page

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Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Business Column Continued...................

By Michelle Colesanti

friends and family for their ongoing support,” said Bellanca. “We have a great team here, and I look forward to growing the business and earning consumers’ trust at the No. 1 insurance agency with more choice than you’ll find anywhere else.” Joining Bellanca at the agency are Principal Agent, SanJuanita Escobar and Administrator, Rocio Regalado. Together, the team has more than 40 Brightway Insurance Valrico/FishHawk ribbon years’ insurcutting. ance industry

sultations with do-it-your-selfers or identifying a ‘what is this bug’ text on the weekends we are happy to assist our community in protecting their largest investments.” Call 716-9196 or 760-2691 or visit www.TNTtermiteandpestcontrol.com.

Brightway, The Reid Bellanca Agency Hosts Grand Opening

Brightway Insurance Valrico/FishHawk recently acquired a new owner, Reid Bellanca and his associate, SanJuanita Escobar, and are now located in the Riverhills Plaza, 4375 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico. For more information, call 681-6700 or visit www.BrightwayInsuranceFishhawk.com. Reid Bellanca, SanJuanita Escobar and Rocio Regalado welcomed the community, chamber, friends and family to Brightway, The Reid Bellanca Agency during a grand opening and ribbon-cutting event held in conjunction with the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce on July 19. In May, Bellanca became the new owner of the agency and rebranded as Brightway, The Reid Bellanca Agency. “Many thanks go out to the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce for their partnership, and of course to our

Hands In Motion Artist Concert

Following the success of her debut album, Relentless, Christian Contemporary Artist Jennifer Jimenez shows no sign of slowing down in the coming year. On the day of her official release, March 2, 2018, Jimenez’s album reached #10 on the iTunes Christian/Gospel charts. At just 18 years old, Jimenez has graduated High School, released her music, and submitted Relentless for a nomination consideration for the 61st annual GRAMMY® Awards. Jimenez will further the momentum, from Relentless, as she shares her accomplishments and performs live with her band at a CD release concert and worship service. This event is free for all to come and enjoy at ARISE Assembly of God of Brandon at 401 Pauls Dr. in Brandon on Friday, August 10 at 7 p.m.

Smart Back To School Savings And Safety Tips

From school supplies to dorm essentials, State experience. Farm agents The agency offers cusknow that stocktomized Home, Flood, Auto, ing up on supLife, Condo, Renters, RV, plies for a new Motorcycle, Boat, ATV and school year can Umbrella insurance as strain families’ appointed agents of more budgets. That is than 70 insurance brands why Melissa including Tower Hill, Snively State Universal, Progressive, Farm Agent is Safeco, Travelers, collecting and Nationwide, American donating school Colonial, Bankers, Dixon Relentless, Christian supplies for Wells and National General Contemporary Artist Jennifer Jimenez. Back to School to name a few. The Drives through agency’s hours of operation Monday, August 6, to benefit hundreds are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to of families. If folks in the community 5 p.m., and Saturday by appointment.

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would like to make a school supply donation, they can stop and drop it by the office at 16209 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. State Farm agents are also here to help with back-to-school shopping and safety tips for families to plan smart and cut costs. 1. Set a budget and stick to it. Determine how much money you can spend; then evaluate needs versus wants. Review supply lists before heading to the store and note what you already have. Include your kids in the process for a valuable lesson about budgeting. 2. Seek out the deals. Buy a Sunday paper to check weekly ads for the best savings and clip any schoolsupply coupons. Another idea: Follow your favorite stores on social media to keep up with deals, or use a free app like RetailMeNot to find store-specific coupons. 3. Shop tax-free. Take advantage of the Florida Back to School Sales Tax Holiday from August 3 to August 5: See which items qualify and how much you can save: https://revenuelaw.floridarevenue.com/LawLibraryDocuments/2018/0 6/TIP-121808_TIP%2018A0107%20FINAL%20RLL.pdf 4. Stock up in the off season. Many retailers mark down school supplies weeks after back-to-school shopping peaks. Score deals on trendy, must-have items for this year and stock up on basics like glue and paper for upcoming years. 5. Shop securely. If you're ordering online, make sure to use secure, reliable websites with "https" and a padlock symbol in the address bar. Pay with your credit card instead of debit card.

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August 2018

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Carman & Bevington Attorneys Proud Of Constant Five-Star Reviews From Clients

By Michelle Caceres

Not all super“Although not heroes wear flashy every case is litigated costumes or were we’re not quick to bitten by radioactive settle and have no spiders. problem aggressively For the clients fighting your battle in of Brandon-based the courtroom,” he law firm Carman & said. Bevington, P.A., Partner Vanessa serving the area Bevington’s specialty since 2009, the suitis family law, with The trial attorneys at Carman & clad, briefcase-carareas of practice in Bevington, P.A. may not wear capes but fight their clients’ legal battles on a daily divorce, alimony, parrying legal eagles basis. are superheroes enting plans, child who zealously represent them in matters support, prenuptial agreements, alimony of personal injury and family law. modifications, paternity, property distribuPast clients like Tori Renfroe enthusi- tions and injunctions for protection. astically declare that Carman & From start to finish, Bevington perBevington’s attorneys helped her navisonally handles all of the firm’s family law gate the stressful and sometimes overcases, employing her litigation and negowhelming legal waters with integrity and tiating skills to advocate on her client’s knowledge. She was grateful for the sucbehalf. cessful outcome of her case. “I really get to know my clients and Renfroe and other past-clients conwork hard to guide them through difficult sistently give Carman & Bevington, P.A. times and complicated decisions in as top marks on social media websites. cost-effective a way as possible,” said “These five-star reviews speak volBevington. umes for our firm,” said owner Allen This dedication has earned her Carman. “We certainly work hard to make recognition as a Florida 2018 Rising Star our clients happy.” by Super Lawyers, a rating service based Carman and his associate Michael on peer nominations, evaluations and Finegan are experienced personal injury independent research. trial attorneys, specializing in areas of “It’s always an honor to be recogpractice including car/motorcycle accinized as an excellent attorney by my dent, general personal injury, workplace peers,” she said. accidents, nursing home neglect, spinal Carman and Bevington, P.A. is locatcord injuries and premises liability. ed at 223 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. For more Carman said each case deserves his information about the firm, visit full attention so clients can receive the www.brandonlegal.com or to schedule a best possible outcome. free initial consultation call 654-3444.

Page 27

Living Gluten Free Café And Market Comes To Brandon By Tatiana Ortiz

People who cannot consume products that contain gluten whether it be health issues or other reasons might find it difficult when it comes time to grocery shop or dine out to get foods without it. Living Gluten Living Gluten Free Café and Market Free Café and owner Frank Market, which Pandolfo (on the recently opened right) hands Christine Greig (on the left) her in Brandon Iced Chai Latte that caters to those she ordered. with a gluten intolerance and Celiac Disease by selling a variety of beverages and foods that do not consist of gluten. Owners Frank Pandolfo and his wife Pamela Pandolfo who reside in Valrico established Living Gluten Free Café and Market in June of this year. This idea came into fruition after the Pandolfo’s visited a store in Italy last summer that sold gluten free products such as pastries and more. The Pandolfo’s decided to try that concept here since their son and granddaughter have Celiac Disease. “We offer items that do not contain any gluten and this would be our premise,” Frank Pandolfo said. This 1,400 sq. ft. building can seat 12 guests comfortably in the café area and provides free Wi-Fi as well. The café here

sells a variety of flavored coffees and teas from Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Company such as espresso, chai lattes and much more. It also carries gluten free gelatos from a company called Stefano’s Gelato, which guests can choose from a number of flavors too such as Italian Pistachio, Chocolate and more. In addition to that, the café does sell gluten free chicken wings, pizza and breakfast sandwiches. The mild or hot chicken wings start at $8.19 for six pieces and prices do vary depending on the amount bought. With the grocery area people will see an assortment of European food products such as pastas from Italy and desserts from Germany on the shelves, which can be purchased. Along with that, it does sell other items that one might discover at a grocery store, which includes peanut butter, cereals and more. For more information visit, https://www.facebook.com/livingglutenfreemarket/. It is located at 859 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. Open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Call 651-3226.

Page 28

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Don’s Painting Gives Free Paint Job To Local Hero, USAF Veteran

Staff Report

You may Force for 20 have noticed a years and then rise in superhero retired. In his movies in the retirement, Brod theaters in followed his recent years. genuine heart of These movies service as a offer entertainPhysics teacher ment, but also at Bloomingdale the idea of hope High School in and possibility. Hillsborough But Tampa area County for the residents do not past 23 years. need to watch As a way to give movies to find a Major Joseph Brod, USAF, Retired, who served recognition and in the Air Force for 20 years received a free hero. Tampa to say “Thank home paint job from Don’s Painting. residents are you for your surrounded by heroes that sacrifice service” to all the local heroes we their lives daily for others. Some are have in the Tampa area, Don’s Bay first responders such as firefighters, Area Painting painted Brod’s home paramedics and police officers; some entirely for free, partnered with PPG are officers of the military; some are Porter Paint who provided the paint school teachers. The heroes that live used to paint the home. among us serve anywhere from the Brod responded to Murray’s genlocal library to the trenches in foreign erosity, “It felt so good to know that lands giving Tampa residents and there are people who wanted to thank American citizens the ability to live in us for our service.” freedom, to survive a severe auto Don’s Bay Area Painting, whose accident or house fire giving them a motto is ‘We’re not happy until you’re chance to live another day, to receive happy!’, has been a Tampa painting an education with the possibility to company for over 15 years. Services become anything they dream. include painting homes and commerDon Murray, owner of Don’s Bay cial buildings inside and out. Don Area Painting, set out to find a local offers free estimates and free pressure hero in the Tampa community who washing with the painting of your was in need of having his or her house home. Payment is not required until painted, but without the means to get it the job is completed to the customer’s done. His search for a hero led him to satisfaction. To request a free painting Major Joseph Brod, USAF, Retired, estimate, visit www.donsbayareapaintwho served in the United States Air ing.com or call 563-8656.

Volume 17, Issue 8

Ernest Hooper Will Speak At Second Annual Back To School Luncheon

By Marie Gilmore

Wilson, owner of Cardinal Roofing and Solar. “It is our pleasure to sponsor this event and help welcome our teachers back to school.” Ernest Hooper is the East Hillsborough Bureau chief and columnist at the Tampa Bay Times. Hooper joined the Times in 1992 and has worked as a prep sports writer and editor, TV/radio sports columnist, NFL writer and news columnist. Ernest Hooper of the Tampa Bay TImes will speak at the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber Teacher Luncheon.

The Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce will host the second annual Back to School Teacher Luncheon on Wednesday, August 8 from 10:30-12:30 p.m. at Bloomingdale High School. The luncheon is intended to welcome teachers from 18 area schools back in to the new school year and is sponsored by local businesses in the community. This year, Tampa Bay Times Editor Ernest Hooper will be the keynote speaker and teachers will enjoy entertainment provided by Bloomingdale High School ROTC and music programs. In addition, teachers will be pampered with school supplies donated by local businesses and have the opportunity to win raffles. “This is the chance for local businesses to appreciate our local teachers,” explained Chamber past-president and newly crowned Brandon Honorary Mayor Melissa Haskins. “We want to partner with our local schools and make our community stronger.” Food will be provided by Chickfil-A Brandon South, Yo-Yo Juice, LeAnne’s Cookies and Philly Pretzel Factory. In addition to lunch, speakers and entertainment, the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber has partnered with OneBlood this year to host a Blood Drive at Bloomingdale High School from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The community is welcome to donate a pint. “This is a way for local businesses to make a major impact on our local schools,” describes Bridget

The community is also welcome to donate a case of paper to a local school. The case cost is $31 delivered to any local school. The Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization and a local 501C-3 which promotes opportunities for local businesses to increase sales and awareness of their establishments. Membership includes opportunities for a ribbon cutting, community events, networking, after hours events and educational seminars to continue to foster growth in local businesses. Currently, there are more than 200 business members of the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. For information or to donate school supplies or raffle prizes to the event, visit www.valricofishhawk.org.

August 2018

Page 29

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Children’s Cancer Center Hosts The Annual Kite Camp, All For The Kids

CFC037149

By Sammie Green

possible. “When they asked me about hosting, I immediately put myself in a position where I think, “What if that was my kid?’ and then I asked, ‘What can I do to help you?’” Fuerst said. “There was no hesitation on it.” The CCC Kite

Sharin Nelson poses with Kite Camp participants at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s after a day at Top Golf.

The Children’s Cancer Center (CCC) hosted 25 cancer and chronic blood disorder survivors and their siblings aged 5-12 during the week of June 25 at the annual Kite Camp. Kite Camp is a week-long day camp filled with educational and recreational activities. CCC Director of Programs and Family Services Sharin Nelson is the coordinator of the camp, which had a sports theme this summer. Throughout the week, the kids participated in ice skating and golfing and also attended a Rays game. On June 28, the kids went to Top Golf and then to Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in Valrico for a complimentary lunch. “To see the kids having fun, to not be stuck at the doctor’s office or in the hospital waiting room, to see them trying new things, skating, golfing, to introduce them to other kids and become friends,” Nelson said. “There are so many little wins we see throughout the week.” Beef ‘O’ Brady’s owner Jeff Fuerst was honored to host the camp for lunch. He emphasized his main goal is to help organizations in our community however

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Page 30

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 8

Couple Gets Engaged At ‘Senior’ Prom Local Movie The Favorite Tackles Sibling By Mia Cafaro Rivalry And Opens September 7 divorced. After the divorce, she did not think she could ever see herself with anyone else until she met Rodriguez. When asked if he had been married before, Rodriguez quietly answered that he had been married four times, before playfully putting a finger to his lips. Rodriguez

The newly engaged Jaime Rodriguez and Luz Rivera pose for a picture at the senior prom hosted by Hillsborough County at The Regent.

On June 22, the lives of Jaime Rodriguez, age 78, and Luz Rivera, age 69, changed forever when Rodriguez popped the question at the ‘senior’ prom hosted by Hillsborough County at The Regent in Riverview. At first glance, the prom looked like any other party, complete with loud music, elaborate costumes, and dancing couples. The prom court strutted their way out to center stage, and the king and queen were crowned. It was after this that a surprise event took place. Rivera was asked to come to center stage, much to her surprise. Rodriguez followed her out, telling the emcee, “If I get down on a knee, you’ll have to help me up.” “When I first saw this lady, I thought, This is it!” Rodriguez announced to the crowd before asking Rivera to marry him. She gave an ecstatic “Yes!” and he slipped an engagement ring on her finger. The couple then danced to Love Me Tender, and was congratulated by groups of supportive friends. Rodriguez and Rivera met six months ago at the Town N’ Country Senior Center. They started dating two months ago with a dinner trip to Bahama Breeze. Rivera’s daughter Variluz Soto, who was there for the proposal, said “They party every day.” Rivera was married to Soto’s father for 38 years before they

and Rivera have not yet made any wedding plans, but are already scheming for their honeymoon. They plan to either take a cruise, or visit Puerto Rico, where they are both originally from. “Our life is going to change,” said Rivera. The heartwarming proposal was done in public so the couple could share their joy with their many friends and declare their love for one another. “It shows you can find love at any age,” said Frances Duran Brea, the general manager for the Town N’ Country center. Rodriguez and Rivera will be spending the rest of their days sideby-side at the Town N’ Country center, where more adventures are sure to come.

Dr. Natalie Carr Bustillo Dr. Meghan Carter

By Marie Gilmore

An inspired by true events movie that was shot locally, based on a true story and starring John Schneider of Dukes of Hazzard fame will open in select theaters on Friday, September 7 and has a special message to share. The story is inspired by true events based on a car accident from local resident Luke Bernard, who nearly died from a traumatic brain injury from a car accident in Los Angeles. After much prayer from his parents, Luke amazed his surgeons and therapists by going home in less than two months. During his recovery, he was inspired to write a screenplay about two brothers each seeking to be their father’s favorite son. The story is of one distanced and agitated son, hurt by what he perceives as favoritism given to his younger brother, who vents his anger through Mixed Martial Arts fighting. MMA is brought to life with UFC’s Welterweight Champion, Tyron Woodley and Fighter Uriah Hall, as supporting roles in the movie. The dad and lead in The Favorite is John Schneider who we remember as the star of the legendary hit show, Dukes of Hazard. John was delighted to have been part of making someone else’s dream come true.

Executive Producer and father of Luke, Daniel Bernard, founder of Somebody Cares Tampa Bay shares, “We believe that Luke’s recovery and the film inspired by his experience can bring great hope to many by demonstrating the power of faith and prayer. Our passion and dedication in completing this project on a modest budget of one million dollars far exceeded our expectations.” The movie was shot in Pinellas County and features the City of St. Petersburg and City of Oldsmar Fire departments. Screenplay was published by Evergreen Press and the movie was nominated for Best Screenplay at the International Christian Film Festival. Producer Daniel Bernard, Luke’s father, and the founder of Somebody Cares, Tampa Bay, said, “When we got to the hospital his injuries were even worse than we had imagined. We believe that his recovery and the film based upon his experience can bring great hope to many by demonstrating the power of faith and prayer.” To interview the author, email info@thefavoritemovie.com or contact Daniel Bernard at 727-421-4132. Visit www.thefavoritemovie.com for latest news.

August 2018

Page 31

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Assisted Living Facility To Hold Grand Opening Celebrating Renovations

By Des’ree Dallmann

The Rosecastle at Delaney Creek assisted living facility is hosting a grand opening ceremony on Rosecastle at Delaney Creek, surrounded by plenty of trees and vegetation, welcomes residents and guests, Wednesday, June 20, into its newly Thursday, renovated lobby. August 23 from 4 to physicians, physical therapists, and more. 7p.m. to showcase its $350,000 renovaIt offers residents three meals a day tions. restaurant style with a server, housekeepThe facility, opened in 1999, now has ing and laundry services along with transa newly renovated roof, new wooden portation to appointments. They also flooring, freshly painted walls throughout incorporate various activities to keep resiand newly restored awnings for residents dents active throughout the day including to enjoy, said Regional Director of Sales fitness classes, Bingo, social hour, and and Marketing, Stephanie Mullis. happy hour with entertainment. The location is licensed for 86 resiThe location has six floor plans for dents, 62 physical units and has two residents to choose from offering both priwings that are secured areas specializing vate and shared accommodations as well in care for residents with cognitive impair- as pet-friendly options. ments like Alzheimers, Dementia and “For residents interested in the many more. assisted living care, Rosecastle is a pri“What sets us aside in our communivate pay community,” said Mullis. “They ty is our extended congregate care also accept Medicaid, any veteran’s license as opposed to having residents assistance, and long-term care insurtransition to a medical facility. We offer ance.” 24-hour nursing, which is not something According to the Rosecastle website, the state requires. We just have it availthe Delaney Creek location is “nestled able, said Mullis. among oak trees and natural wetlands” So the extended congregate care and is one out of three Rosecastle localicense allows the facility to provide a tions in Florida and is located at 320 S peace of mind for aging residents making Lakewood Dr. in Brandon. nursing services and assessments availFor information, contact 655-8858 or able for 24 hours while also maintaining visit the Rosecastle at Delaney Creek health conditions with in-house visits from online at rosecastleal.com.

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Page 32

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sports

Volume 17, Issue 8

Connection

657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com

By Nick Nahas

FishHawk 15U All-Stars Finish Season Strong As State Runners Up

The Fishhawk 15U All-Star baseball team holds up their banner after winning districts

The Fishhawk 15U All-Star baseball team recently represented Fishhawk Youth Baseball in Sarasota at the Babe Ruth State Championship Tournament. The team finished as the state runner-up, going 3-2 in the tournament with a big 3-0

win over Sarasota in the semifinals before losing to eventual champion South Orlando,12-6. The team, which practices at the Fishhawk Sports Complex, is coached by Tony Fucca who is also the vice president of the park. The

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Fishhawk came up a little bit short, losing to South Orlando 12-6 in the championship after a four-hour rain delay threw them off. “This was some of the best six weeks of these kids’ lives, with all the highs, the lows, hard work and dedication, they became a team as the journey went on,” said Fucca. The team consisted of players from Randall The team made it to the state championship game. Middle School, Barrington Middle team played around 20 games to get School and Newsome High School, prepared for the playoffs. They won including Jadon Kilpatrick, Connor the Cal Ripken Sarasota Classic Paycheck, Evan Waiman, Jacob Championship in June and later went Schlarbaum, Fisher Weeks, Rocco on to become District 13 Champions Martinez, Shawn Banks, Justin at the end of that same month. Fucca, Mason Finger, Caden Fishhawk defeated North Tampa, Santucci, Cade Huffman, Ben Gill Wesley Chapel and Bloomingdale to and Camo Blakey. Assistant coaches win the district tournament. They included Russ Waiman, Tim Gill and threw back-to-back shutouts against Ricky Martinez. North Tampa and Wesley Chapel. In “What I am most proud of is the mid-July, they moved on to states, fight this team had,” said Fucca. “For where Fishhawk 15U defeated us to go on and make it all the way Lakeland Highlands, Taveras and to states and knock out Sarasota and heavy tournament favorite Sarasota to go to the championship was a to make it to the championship huge accomplishment.” game.

August 2018

Page 33

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sports

Connection

Sign-Up Now For FishHawk Girls Softball League By Kate Quesada Softball enthusiasts “It’s a big job from four to 16 years old to run the league and I couldn’t do are invited to sign-up it without the now for Miss Tampa Bay other volunteers Softball’s (MTBS) on the board,” FishHawk fall season. said Southworth. No experience neces“It’s all about sary. making a differThe group, which ence in our comholds most of its games munity.” and practices at the The division FishHawk Sports also holds a Complex, hosts teams in spring season, the Tball, 8U, 10U, 12U which is more and 14/16U age groups competitive and with the fall season starts the last starting after Labor Day week of January and ending the week ending with a before Thanksgiving. Sign ups are now open for Miss Tampa Bay Softball’s FishHawk dividouble elimina“The fall season is sion’s fall season which starts after Labor Day. The group fielded two tion tournament designated as a develchampionship winning All Star teams this summer. to determine opmental season where 10U All Star Miss Florida Champions league champilenging environment. when we focus on the fundamentals of the “Essentially the goal of our league is his ons in May. Then game,” said John Southworth, who to teach life skills,” said Southworth. middle daughter expressed an interest in each division select All Star teams which recently became president of the MTBS “These girls learn how to overcome makthe game. As the division’s new presihave two weeks to practice for the Miss FishHawk division. “The goal is to help ing mistakes and striking out. They gain dent, he has some lofty goals for the next Florida All Star Tournament which is held our new players learn the game and to confidence in themselves and learn to few seasons, including increasing comhelp those who have transitioned to a the weekend before Memorial Day. This make quick decisions on the field of play. munication and making capital improvenew division adjust to the differences in year two of the four MTBS-FishHawk The learn that the only thing they can ments such as the addition of pitching rules and skills in their new division.” teams that participated in the All Star tourtruly control is their effort and attitude. lanes for pitchers to warm up and pracThe teams are coached by volunnament went undefeated and came tice, soft toss areas for batters to warm After that, it’s teamwork and overcoming teers and most of the families live in home champions. up before games and to practice hitting, adversity on the field together.” FishHawk and the surrounding area. For more information, visit www.misnew backstop netting and eventually new stampabaysoftball.com. Southworth, who is retired from the Along with softball skills, girls learn sportsbatting cages. manship and teamwork in a fun and chal- military, joined the group as a volunteer

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Page 34

Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Center Place To Host Bet-A-Buck Local Puppy Fosters Needed For Lithia Service Dog Training Business This SeptemberBet A Buck? By Kathy L. Collins

Center fun entertainPlace of ment, themed Brandon will baskets, golf hold one of its packages, oil signature changes, gas events in cards to salon September. The experiences special event is and more. its fun, fastThere will be paced fundraissomething for ing event, Beteveryone," A-Buck. The said event will be Rodriguez. In held on Friday, Join other residents and support the arts by attending addition to Center Place's upcoming Bet-A-Buck. This fastSeptember 21 getting your paced game of chance that combines a raffle, beginning at auction padauction and bingo, will be held on Friday, September 21 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Center Place in 6:30 p.m. at dle which Brandon. Center Place gives you the located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in opportunity to bid on these fantastic Brandon. "Join us for an exciting, fastitems, attendees can enjoy delicious food moving game of chance," said Lisa and drinks. Rodriguez, Marketing Director for Center Bet-A-Buck is a great way to help Place. fund a Brandon institution. Center Place "Bet-A-Buck is a fast moving game of is a 501(c )(3) non-profit that has been chance on a live auction. This fun combiserving the greater Brandon community nation of raffle, auction and bingo for over 40 years. "Center Place provides fundraiser (with a few surprises thrown in) quality art instruction to children and is just what you need to end your week adults, live children's theatre productions, with a win. You can win a lot for a little," monthly art gallery exhibitions, and speexplained Rodriguez. cial community events throughout the Bet-A-Buck is for adults only. The year. Help us to continue this mission," cost to attend is $20 per person or you said Rodriguez. can get your friends together and sponsor "The arts play an important role in a table for eight for just $200. Space is our society by enriching our community," limited so get your tickets today by visiting added Rodriguez. Center Place Monday through Friday For information on Center Place and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to get information on purchasing tickets "We will have a wide variety of items, for Bet-A-Buck, please visit www.centerranging from restaurant gift cards, family placebrandon.org or call 685-8888.

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By Kate Quesada are trained to perform specific tasks to help their handler. For example, a dog can learn to be aware when a person is having a panic attack and can

ABCK9s offers service dog training and its facility in Lithia. The group is always looking for volunteer puppy raisers to foster dogs as part of their training.

For people with physical and psychiatric disabilities, service dogs can be life saving. But, as Lithia resident Annika Charo learned when she determined that a service dog could help her, the welltrained animals usually come with a very high price tag, often upwards of $10,000. So Charo started ABCK9s on her Lithia property with the goal of providing low-cost service animals to those in need. In order to keep costs reasonable, she is asking for the public’s help to train and prepare the dogs for their roles as service animals to low-budget clients. ABCK9s hosts an average of 15 dogs at the training facility at a time. The dogs come from breeders and rescues and some are donated to the program. “Each dog is temperament tested before coming into our program,” said Charo. “They must not have aggression, outstanding fear or any negative signs. They get socialized through extensive training to aid their future handler.” Once Charo learns the dog’s personality, she determines what speciality to give them. “We temperament test the dogs and find their strengths and weaknesses,” she said. “Larger dogs with well built frames are often used for mobility, Velcro-like dogs are often used for PTSD. The dog cannot be too sensitive to emotions with psychiatric disabilities or they can become reactive and become nervous or too sensitive as well.” Depending on the disability, the dogs

retrieve medication or guide to an exit and find a safe place for the person to calm down. “A service dog is a medical device and in order to prepare them to be an asset to their future handlers, they must be exposed to many situations,” said Charo. One of the most valuable parts of the training, according to Charo, is only possible with the help of volunteers. “Puppy raising, where a family or individual fosters a dog in their home, is essential to any service dog program,” she said. “The dog learns individually and gets more work with house manners, basic obedience and house breaking.” The fostering can last anywhere from three-12 months, depending on the household, and volunteers can come to weekly lessons where training is given step-by-step. ABCK9s, located at 19065 Boyette Rd., also offers boarding, obedience and behavioral lessons to the general public including specific cases such as aggression or rehabilitation. To find the group on Facebook by searching ABCK9s Dog Training or call 841-4512. FAN FAVORITES:

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August 2018

Page 35

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

From Broadway To Shakespeare At Florida Orchestra Coffee Concerts

By Kelly Smith

Led by charismatic Principal Guest Conductor Stuart Malina, The Florida Orchestra’s light symphonic Coffee concerts are popular every year. Think it could be the free coffee and doughnuts? The two series include nine concerts at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg on Thursdays, and five at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater on Wednesdays. Come early for the free Pre-concert Conversation at 10 a.m., featuring delightful stories from the conductor and TFO musicians. Concerts start at 11 a.m. Highlights of the 2018-19 season include: Broadway (Nov. 1, Mahaffey): Start your day with Broadway, including selections from Fiddler on the Roof and Phantom of the Opera, along with Slaughter on 10th Avenue. Stuart Malina conducts. Let’s Dance (Nov. 29, Mahaffey): Get your morning moving with Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty Waltz, Anderson’s Blue Tango and much more. Stuart Malina conducts. Orchestra à la Carte (Dec. 19 at Ruth Eckerd Hall, Dec. 20 at Mahaffey): It’s your turn to choose what the orchestra performs. Will it

be Barber of Seville or Orpheus in the Underworld? Swan Lake or The Nutcracker March? Audience choice. Stuart Malina conducts. Spirit of America (Jan. 9 at Ruth Eckerd Hall, Jan. 10 at Mahaffey): A salute to American composers, featuring Bernstein’s Three Dance Episodes from On the Town, Gould’s Second American Symphonette and Joplin’s The Entertainer. Jeff Tyzik conducts. Symphonic Shakespeare (Feb. 27 at Ruth Eckerd Hall, Feb. 28 at Mahaffey): Music inspired by The Bard, including Porter’s Brush Up Your Shakespeare and selections from Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet. Stuart Malina conducts. The Florida Orchestra: Coffee concert season tickets are on sale now at 20% off the single ticket price. Single tickets are available Aug. 13 at the same low price as last year: $24, $29, $34, $42 at floridaorchestra.org or 727.892.3337 and 1.800.662.7286.

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Page 36

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 8

August 2018

Page 37

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

A Call To Artists Has Been Issued By Brandon League Of Fine Arts For Artworks 2018

Glen Schuele's Artwork Pops With A Combination Of New And Old

The Brandon League and awards ceremony will take place at of Fine Arts (BLFA) has Center Place on issued a Call To Artists for Thursday, September Artworks 2018. This is a 13 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. juried show which is open The entry fee for to all area artists who wish BLFA member is $25 to submit original art that for one entry and $35 has been completed since for two. For non-memSeptember 2015. There is bers of BLFA, the entry over $1200 in prize money fee is $35 for one entry available. and $45 for two. Both traditional 2D This year's judge work and 3D work in A Call To Artists has been issued is Jason Shiver. Sue media such as fiber, by the Brandon League of Fine Arts for their annual Artworks exhi- Allen, a local artist and ceramics, metal, jewelry, bition. Last year, Charles Stierlan glass and wood are of Brandon received first place for long time member of BLFA said, "Jason accepted. 2D work must his oil piece, LoLo. Shiver is a well known not exceed 40 inches in artist who lives in our community and any dimension and must be framed and brings a diverse artistic background to wired for hanging. 3D work must not this task. He is a visual artist and a sculpexceed 18" H x 10" W x 12" D and not tor. Jason works in many media which we weigh more than three pounds. Work see as an asset for judging the various without proper framing or wiring or any works in our show." deviation from the rules will not be "Each year BLFA and Center Place accepted into the show. reach out to the community by sharing Artists are asked to bring the work the very best art being produced in our they wish to be considered to Center Place on Wednesday, August 29 between area. It is an open show so anyone may submit work to be juried into the exhibi9:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. Artists may submit tion. We always hope artists from other up to two entries. The judge will select counties and art organizations will particithose pieces that will be in the show that pate," said Allen. day. Artists will be notified of their acceptFor more information on Artworks ance by 2 p.m. that day. The chosen artwork will be on display 2018, please contact BLFA's president, Christopher Klein at 966-8784 or christoin the Mook Gallery at Center Place durpherleok@verizon.net. ing the month of September. A reception

Glenn Schuele studied some art in college. However, it was not is an illustrative artist until recently that he has with a flair for creatreally gotten into creating ing whimsical art in art that is sought out by the style of pop art. others. He was one of What makes the artists juried into the Schuele's artwork 10th Annual Winthrop Arts unique is that he Art Festival and Artisan searches for vintage Market held in March in frames and repurRiverview. This was his poses them and first juried show. incorporates them "I was a little fearful of into his artwork. being judged because I "I search out old frames, clean them Glenn Schuele creates whimsical had never displayed my and then paint them artwork in the vein of modern pop work previously. It was a art. Schuele, however, makes his good experience. in the theme of the artwork even more interesting by piece. Sometimes repurposing old frames and incorpo- Everything is a growth experience. I am trying to the frame will influrating them into his artwork. develop my own style and technique," ence what I draw," said Scuele. said Schuele. Schuele uses bright ink on black Now, Schuele is showing his artpaper. He uses black photo paper for work in a lot of venues. He has space larger pieces. This effect makes the art at Creativity Unpinned, a store at The really pop. Schuele will draw and paint Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. almost anything from a still life, animals He has 13 original pieces and various to Dia de Muertos (Mexican Day of the prints there for sale. In addition, Dead). No matter what he paints, it is Schuele has applied to the Winter Park always done in a whimsical way. Sidewalk Art Festival, and has a gallery "My art is in the modern art sensishow coming up in Delray Beach. bility but the frames I use are old," Schuele posts his work on both explained Schuele. While he generally Instagram and Facebook under glensells his original art with a painted zenarts. You can view and purchase or frame, if a customer requests a specific make arrangement to commission subject matter, he will create it and sell Schuele's wonderful work by visiting it without a frame. www.glanzenarts.com. Schuele has always drawn and

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Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Page 39

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

GET THE DIRT

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HYUNDAI OVERHAULS 2019 VELOSTER … FOR THE BETTER Austin, Texas precise. served as the setThough the ting for our test wheelbase is drives of the unchanged, front-wheel-drive length gets a 2019 Hyundai boost of 0.8 Veloster. Agreed, and width of 0.4 Texas is considinches. ered mostly a flat The boldland but not this appearing vehistate Capitol and cle sports an surrounding landscape, extra-wide cascading VELOSTER (TURBO) which is known as “The Hill hexagonal grille, surTires: 225/40R18 Wheelbase: 104.3 inches Country.” It was the perfect rounded by wraparound Length: 166.9 inches place for evaluating the two LED-accented headlights Weight: 2,987 pounds competent models with the and daytime running City: 28 mpg 2.0- and 1.6-liter engines. lights, practical air curHighway: 34 mpg Fuel capacity: 13.2 gallons Once again, the threetains, faster roofline and Web site: www.hyundai.com door, four-passenger sport dual center exhaust tips. hatchback is offered in base Standard amenities on and Turbo trims. But gone is the 1.6-liter the base 2.0 are a 7-inch display screen, power train in the base, now replaced 60/40 flat rear seat, rearview camera, with a 2.0 inline-4 cylinder engine that cruise control, Bluetooth, auto headlights, develops 147 horsepower (increase of and all-new for 2019, a forward-collision 15) @ 6200 rpm and 132 pounds-feet of avoidance system. Available features torque (up by 12) @ 4050 rpm. The include leather seats, auto a/c, black twoTurbo retains a 1.6-liter inline-4 cylinder tone roof, push-button start, 8-inch headengine packing 201 hp @ 6000 rpm and up display and much more. 195 pounds-feet of torque at 4500 rpm. Base-priced at just $18,500 and Transmission choices include 6-speed peaking at $28,150, the quick Veloster is manual, 6-speed auto or the 7-speed not only inexpensive but also offers dual-clutch gearbox. Suspension is still ample performance (turbo version), handled via an independent MacPherson decent fuel economy, substantial space, strut front but the rear torsion beam has with an added benefit – off-beat sporty given away to a fine multilink system. The design. After all, who doesn’t want to be motor driven power steering is quick and different?

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Page 40

Volume 17, Issue 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

THE BEST HOMES

Top Producer 2002 - 2017

MORE THAN $82 MILLION SOLD SO FAR IN 2018

TRUE ONE OF A KIND BEAUTY IN GATED DOE CREEK! Over 8,500 sqft siting on 6.58 acres! This custom beauty offers EVERYTHING you could want & more! No detail overlooked including guest house with kitchen! To truly appreciate this stunning home, go to my website and look at all the fabulous details! $1,845,000 ! G EWIN N T S LI

! G EWIN N T S LI

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WONDERFUL DAVID WEEKLEY "TYLERMONT" HOME IN GATED KESTREL RIDGE! Be in awe of this 5/4/3 + office + bonus + HUGE pool home that offers all the bells & whistles! 0.38 acre corner lot with wood floors, plantation shutters, crown, wide base, great paint choices & more! Wonderful curb appeal! $625,000

PRIVATE HALF ACRE LOT! 4/3/3 + office + bonus + pool home in Fish Hawk Trails with NEW ROOF IN 2017! Wood floors, crown, wood-burning fireplace, French doors, tray ceilings & more! Kitchen with lots of cabinet & counter space, island & walk-in pantry! Private conservation lot! New A/C unit in 2016! $489,900

WESTBAY "KEY LARGO" HOME IN THE GATED PRESERVE AT FISHHAWK RANCH! 4/3/3 + bonus + pool home with no detail overlooked! Exterior with tile roof & pavered driveway & walkways! Interior offers neutral paint, tile floors, crown, tray ceilings & kitchen with white cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! $634,750

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WONDERFUL DAVID WEEKLEY "BORDEAUX" HOME IN GATED SORA TRACE! Be impressed with this 4/3/3 + spa home that sits on 0.34 wooded acres! Features include crown, wood floors, volume ceilings & separate formals! Kitchen with 42" maple cabinets topped with crown, Cambria counters & island! $450,000

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LOCATED ON THE 8TH GREEN IN BLOOMINGDALE GOLF COMMUNITY! 4/2/3 + pool/spa home that boasts NEW ROOF in 2013 & fresh exterior paint! Interior offers wood-burning fireplace, volume ceilings & spacious kitchen with 42" wood cabinets & stainless appliances! $335,000

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office: (813) 655-5333 | direct: (813) 924-8677 | Brenda@BrendaWade.com www.BrendaWade.com

Registered Voters In Hillsborough Have Three Methods To Vote: By Mail, Early And On Election Day...Every Vote Counts In the United States, voting is a right. However, in order to exercise this right, every voter in Hillsborough County must be informed and must know where to vote and how to do it. There are three methods- Vote By Mail, Early Voting and Election Day Voting. In order to vote, you must be registered by July 30 for the Primary, which is set for August 28. You must be registered by October 9 for the General Election which will be held on November 6. When you register, you are asked to select a party. That would be either Republican, Democrat or No Party Affiliation or one of the minor political parties. Florida is a closed primary state. This means that for the Primary Election, your ballot will reflect the party that you have selected. In other words, you vote only for the candidates from your party as well as non-partisan races such as Judge (County and Circuit) and School Board.

In the General Election, your ballot is based upon where you reside. You can view sample ballots for both the Primary and the General Election at www.votehillsborough.org. “One of the most important things we can do to conduct a successful election is to make sure that voting is easy and accessible for all voters,” said Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer.

VOTE BY MAIL Vote By Mail is the most convenient method. It is often referred to as Absentee Voting. However, Floridians no Requesting A Vote By Mail Ballot Is longer need an Easy: excuse to choose 1. Online: Vote By Mail Ballot Request this option. If you 2. By Phone: (813) 612-4180 request this method, 3. By Fax: (813) 744-5843 you will receive your 4. In Person: at any of our ballot in the mail, and Supervisor of Elections Offices you can take your To Request Vote By Mail For Yourself, You Must time making your voting decision. The Vote By Mail ballot Provide: must be received by the 1. Your name and home address Hillsborough Supervisor of 2. Your date of birth Elections Office by 7 p.m. on 3. Your mailing address, if different from home address (Ballots cannot be forwarded. Be sure to Election Day. You can mail it provide your current mailing address.) or drop it off in person at one 4. Your signature (for written requests) of their offices or at an Early Voting site. Rest assured, if

you choose this method, your vote will be counted. You must request your Vote By Mail ballot by August 22 for the

Primary Election and by October 31 for the General Election. “We pay the return postage on Vote By Mail ballots and have drop-off boxes for those ballots at all of our Early Voting sites and offices, to make that as easy as possible,” said Latimer. If you choose this method, please visit www.votehillsborough.org for instructions. EARLY VOTING Early Voting is set up before both the Primary Election and the General Election. This year, Early Voting will take place for the Primary (August 28) from August 13 through August 26 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For the General Election (November 6), Early Voting will take place from October 22 through November 4 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. In Hillsborough County, there will be 19 Early Voting sites open. “For our 2018 elections, we have added

By Kathy L. Collins

three new Early Vote sites. During the Early Voting period, voters can vote at any of the 19 voting sites,” said Latimer. The new sites include the Valrico Recreation Center which was added to ease congestion at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library. Please visit www.votehillsborough.org for a complete list and the times they are open. Early Voting is just like Election Day Voting. You must bring one or two forms of identification with your photo and signature on it. Acceptable forms of identification include Florida Driver’s License, state issued identification, U.S. Passport, Student ID, Public Assistance ID and more. ELECTION DAY VOTING Polling Places or Precinct, noted on your Voter Registration Card, are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. You can bring your sample ballot with you and use it while you vote. Whichever method you choose, remember your vote counts. “On Election Day, voters must vote in the polling place assigned to their precinct. Remember, Election Day is your last chance to vote. Because the majority of voters will have voted during the Early Voting period, we do not expect lines in the Election Day polling places,” said Latimer. For more information, please visit www.votehillsborough.org.

Page 42

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 8

Community Invited To Candidate Forum At Bell Shoals Baptist Church

Commissioner Stacy White Holds Community Office Hours At Library

Bell Shoals gather together Baptist Church and each will have in Brandon will several minutes to host its 23rd let the community Annual know where they Candidate stand in important Forum on issues facing all of Friday, August us. 3 beginning at "We host 5:30 p.m. in the this non-partiThe Bell Shoals Worship san event as Church Issues Center. The a way for Team will host its 23rd Annual forum is free Christians Candidate Forum on Friday, August 3 and open to the throughout beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the church on Brandon. Area public. Bell residents are encouraged to attend and learn where Hillsborough candidates stand on issues. Shoals Baptist County to Church is located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. know where political candidates stand on in Brandon. issues that matter to them. We will get The Candidate Forum is hosted by bombarded with a variety of advertising Bell Shoals Baptist Church Issues Team, messages during this campaign season. a group of volunteers. Candidates seekBut this is a unique opportunity for the ing to represent the area are invited to voter and the candidate to have unfilattend. Approximately 60 candidates are tered, one-on-one conversations. This expected to attend including those candievent always has a great community dates for School Board, County turnout, and we are anticipating a late Commission, State House and Senate, gathering again this year," said Dr. U.S. House of Representatives and Stephen Rummage, senior pastor, Bell Senate as well as candidates for State Shoals Baptist Church. Executive office. In addition to the candidates, employCandidates are invited regardless of ees from the Hillsborough County their party affiliation. The forum was startSupervisor of Elections Office will be on ed as a way to encourage residents to hand to give information and to answer become better informed on issues and to questions about voter registration. Please learn more about the individuals who note that Florida is a closed primary state, want to represent the interests of the resi- and if you plan to vote in the primary set dents of the greater Brandon area. for Tuesday, August 28, you must be regThe general public will have an istered by July 30. opportunity to meet face to face with the For more information on the 23rd candidates beginning at 5:30 p.m. At Annual Candidate Forum, please visit approximately 7 p.m. the candidates will www.bellshoals.com.

Residents of that entire corridor. Bloomingdale and We’ll have a nice, surrounding areas new smooth road all were welcome to stop the way from Lithia by the Bloomingdale Pinecrest all the way Library on June 14 for to MLK,” he said. a one-on-one meeting White menwith County tioned other issues Commissioner, Stacy office hours strive to Commissioner White has deep roots in White. Visitors were bring attention to. Hillsborough County and holds community office hours to listen to his conable to sign up and “Storm water issues stituent’s concerns and ideas. wait to meet with the always pop up durcommissioner to discuss their concerns ing these kinds of office hours. We work about local and community issues as well with the storm water engineers, and as propose solutions. oftentimes they can make improvements Representing District Four of to the storm water and correct problems Hillsborough County, White is responsible like that,” he added. for the development of everything “from White believes that his office hours Plant City to Sun City”. allow him to be open to the ideas of his In the past, popular topics for citizen’s constituency. “I always say that the best concerns have included mainly traffic, ideas come from out in the field and storm water issues, sidewalk projects, meeting with the people. I walk away with and growth management for the so many good ideas when I’m out here Hillsborough County area. These topics spending time with the people like this,” were frequently brought up by citizens he said. One idea that was mentioned during the community office hours, was the installation of a new traffic light according to White. on Bell Shoals Road to redirect traffic, he Residents can look forward to excitadded. ing developments for the near future, White also prefers one-on-one meetincluding a much-waited for widening of ings. “I can sit here in a quiet office one Bell Shoals Road from Boyette Road to on one with the constituents, give them just North of Lithia Pinecrest, added my undivided attention and focus on just White. their particular issue that they’re bringing White also made note of a second to me. I find that to be very effective,” he big project due to be finished in this calsaid. endar year. “Valrico road is falling apart. Community office hours are held We’re going to resurface Valrico Road quarterly in different areas of District Four. from Lithia Pinecrest Road to Highway For information, visit www.hillsborough60. It was just resurfaced on the other county.org or Commissioner White’s side of Highway 60 so that will complete Facebook page at Stacy White.

By Kathy L. Collins

By Manuela Graf

Jack Gutman Has The Experience And Integrity To Be A County Court Judge, Group 8

Cissy Boza Sevelin Pursues Position Of Circuit Court Judge In Group 25

Jack Gutman has In addition to practiced law for over practicing law, 30 years. He is a long Gutman has served time resident of on the Board of Hillsborough County, Directors for the and he is running for MacDonald County Court Judge Training Center, a in Group 8. non-profit that "The three pillars serves people with of my campaign are disabilities. He curhonesty and integrity; rently serves as the experience; and comChair of their new Jack Gutman, shown here with his daughter, Samantha, son, Matthew and Excel Program munity involvement," wife, Carlene is seeking to continue his said Gutman. He has long legal career and serve the communi- which is a program extensive experience ty as a County Court Judge. The election that works with is on Tuesday, August 28. in both civil and crimiyoung adults who nal law and has achieved an AV are on the Autism spectrum. The proPreeminent Rating from the Martindalegram helps to provide them with life and Hubbell Peer Review Ratings. work skills. "Being a judge is the highest honor Gutman has been endorsed by the a lawyer can achieve. To be entrusted West Central Police Benevolent with that authority is an awesome Association, the Tampa Police responsibility," said Gutman. "I want to Department Benevolent Association, the be a County Court Judge because it is City of Tampa Fire Fighters Union, five the people's court. This may be the first retired Circuit Court Judges, nine past time a citizen encounters a judge. The presidents of the Hillsborough Bar and judge needs to have the right temperatwo past Florida Bar presidents. ment coupled with extensive expertise Gutman has been married to in order to be effective on the bench," Carlene for 25 years and has two chilsaid Gutman. dren, Samantha and Matthew. Gutman has served as both a pros"I believe that I have the experiecutor and defense attorney. In addition, ence, temperament and high level of he is certified by the Florida Supreme ethics necessary to be a County Court Court as a State Mediator. "In my work Judge. I would ask that you vote for me as a mediator, I have learned to facilifor County Court Judge on Tuesday, tate resolution of issues as opposed to August 28," said Gutman. engaging in a way that causes excesFor more information, please visit sive litigation. www.Gutmanforjudge.com.

then as a Bankruptcy “Equality before the Law Clerk for the law is not just a legal judges in the Middle principle to me; it is my District of Florida for entire reason for being nine years. During that an attorney, mediator, time, Boza Sevelin law clerk and public wrote thousands of servant,” said Cissy legal opinions and was Boza Sevelin, candihighly involved with date for Circuit Court courtroom procedure. Judge in Group 25. Boza Sevelin has Boza Sevelin statbeen a sole practitioner ed, “My dedication and in Thonotosassa since involvement with our community sets me Cissy Boza Sevelin, who is running 2013. However, she is apart from others who for Circuit Court Judge in Group 25, not in a traditional prachas the experience, competence tice. This is because are running in my and dedication necessary to be a 100 percent of Boza group. I am compasjudge. She would like the opportuniSevelin’s practice is sionate about providing ty to serve the community in this capacity. devoted to pro bono life-changing legal work. Her clients are financially disadassistance to the poor and oppressed in vantaged and cannot afford representaour community. I have dedicated more tion. She is also a Guardian Ad Litem, an than 4,000 hours in pro bono legal servAttorney Ad Litem and a volunteer Teen ices since 2013. I am dedicated to folCourt Judge. lowing the rule of law as written and not Boza Sevelin explained, “The generas I wish it to be.” al nature of my current practice is repreThroughout her life, Boza Sevelin senting indigent clients in various areas has worked in a variety of fields before of the law such as Domestic Violence becoming an attorney. She began workInjunction Hearings, Family/Domestic ing at the age of 12 when she went to Relations, Wills, Trusts and Estates, work at Olympia Bakery in Tampa. Boza Advance Directives, and Juvenile Sevelin received her Associate of Arts Dependency and Delinquency Hearings.” Degree from HCC in 1989 and graduatBoza Sevelin is also a Certified Family ed from USF with a dual major in Mediator where she deals with custody, Accounting and Finance in 1995. Boza child support, division of property and Sevelin has worked as an accountant, a other family law matters. loan officer and a small business owner. For more information, please visit Boza Sevelin became an attorney in www.cissysevelin4judge.com. 2002 and worked as a mediator and

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kathy L .Collins

A Call To Serve Forged From Tragedy For Bill Yanger, County Judge, Group 5

The Time Is Right For Michael Isaak's Run For County Judge, Group 8

The call to serve to serve by the Chief the community comes Judge," added Yanger. to people in different For many years, he ways. When a lawyer has managed a sucdecides to run for cessful law practice. His judge, it might have extensive experience been a lifelong dream has taught him a lot, " I or because of a perhave learned something sonal experience. from every court Bill Yanger, who is appearance I have had a candidate for County in the last 32 years," Court Judge in Group said Yanger. 5, decided he needed Yanger was born to run for judge after and raised in Tampa to Bill Yanger is running for County the tragic loss of his 22 Court parents who were born Judge in Group 5 on Tuesday, year old daughter, here. He raised his August 28. Yanger brings both professional and life experience to the three children in Tampa. Rose. "We lost Rose bench and as such believes he will He is a member of the on August 24, 2016 to serve as a compassionate and a violent homicide in empathetic judge. Pictured with wife Greater Brandon Sharon. Broward County, a Chamber of Commerce. case that remains "As a member, board open and uncharged. I tell this story not member and Chair of the South Tampa for sympathy but for context. Rose's loss Chamber of Commerce, I have been was a clarifying moment, a desperate active in many collaborations with the and heartbreaking moment that focused Greater Riverview Chamber of my attention on what I wanted and needCommerce, particularly between our ed to do with my life," explained Yanger. respective military affairs committees," Yanger has practiced law for over 30 said Yanger. years. "I have been practicing for 32 "We want our judges to be capable years all over the state. I have fought in of the mechanics of the job. But voters criminal, family and civil court trenches for deserve a say in selecting a judge with teachers and professors, single mothers empathy forged from life's joys as well as and desperate fathers, injured and broits heartaches. Voters deserve the person ken workers, world boxing champions, in the black robe to have lived an expanteenage rockers and small business own- sive life. I have lived one," said Yanger. ers," said Yanger. "I am prepared to wear For more information on Yanger, the robe in whatever capacity I am asked please visit www.yangerforjudge.com.

Michael Isaak is added Isaak. uniquely qualified to When asked what serve as a County sets him apart from his Court Judge. Isaak is opponents, Isaak clearly running for election in stated, "Morals and valGroup 8. He would like ues." Isaak further your vote on Tuesday, explained, "My parents August 28. came to this country Isaak has signififrom Israel. They had cant experience. He nothing. They are the served as an Assistant epitome of the American State Attorney for five Dream," said Isaak. His years and has been mother went on to running his own sucbecome the first female Michael Isaak's extensive legal cessful law firm for 20 attorney at the Tampa career, work ethic and values he learned from his parents all make office of Holland & years. Isaak has tried him a great candidate for County 150 jury trials, argued Knight. Court Judge. He is running and thousands of motions Group 8 and would like your vote on "The people who Tuesday, August 28. and has written 300 influence the candidate appeals. for judge are a great tell of how the candi"From my first day of law school, I date will act and perform on the bench. I have always wanted to be a judge," said grew up with a great mother as a role Isaak. "After 26 years of successful pracmodel," said Isaak. tice, I am in a position where I feel that I "I have a great work ethic. My can give back to the community and morals, values and lessons learned from serve as a judge," added Isaak. my parents reflect how I practice law and "I believe that everyone deserves to how I will perform as a County Court be treated fairly in court. No one should Judge," said Isaak. ever walk away from the courthouse and Isaak is a member of several local feel that the law was not followed," said Chambers of Commerce including Isaak. For me, in deciding to run for Brandon, Riverview, Valrico/FishHawk, judge, there was a defining moment Plant City and Sun City Center. Isaak is when the law was not followed and my married to Betsy, and they have two chilclient was harmed. That day reaffirmed dren, Sophia and Jackson. Isaak and his my belief that there is a need for fairness, family attend Idlewild Baptist Church. and I thought someday the timing will be For more information and to see right to make the move from practice to Isaak's numerous endorsements, please the bench. That day has come for me," visit www,isaakforjudge.com.

By Kathy L .Collins

SUPPORT MICHAEL ISAAK Michael Isaak has a 25year legal career in private and public prac"ce. He is a former Assistant State Attorney and has maintained a successful Tampa law prac"ce for the past 20 years. He is a member of the Florida Bar, Hillsborough County Bar, Florida Jus"ce Associa"on, as well as the Na"onal, Florida and Hillsborough Associa"on of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He is a mul"year recipient of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Awards of Excellence (1993, 1994, 1995), the 18th Circuit State A#orney’s LongTerm Service Award, and was named the FADL Gladiator of the Year (2015). Mr. Isaak is a member of the Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, Valrico Fishhawk and Sun City Center Chambers of Commerce. He lives in Tampa with his wife Betsy, daughter Sophia and son Jackson and they attend Idlewild Baptist Church. You can call Michael Isaak at 8134435100, email him at IsaakForJudge@gmail.com, visit his website www.isaakforjudge.com, and vote for E. Michael Isaak by mail, during early vo"ng or on Elec"on day August 28th.

Local Resident Adam Bantner Is Running For County Court Judge, Group 2

Jamey Moody Seeks The Opportunity To Serve As Circuit Court Judge, Group 25

Adam Bantner fessionalism and is a Board ethics in practice. Certified Criminal Bantner is a Trial Attorney who member of the runs a successful Greater Brandon law practice in Chamber of Brandon. Banter, Commerce. He has who has been served on the serving the comBoard of Directors munity in many for the Chamber for ways for several four years. In addiyears, would like tion, he is a graduto give back even ate of the Adam Bantner, shown here with his son, is a more and serve Chamber's local attorney running for County Court as a County Court Judge. Bantner has an extensive history of Leadership Class of Judge. He is ask- community service and is the only candidate 2011. He is a memin Group 2 who is Board Certified by the ing for your vote ber of The Brandon Florida Supreme Court. on Tuesday, Rotary Club and is August 28. Banter is in Group 2. a Board Member with the Spurlino Bantner has worked hard his entire Family YMCA. life. "With the exception of two of my "My history of hard work, leadership three years in law school, I have and expertise are important characterisworked. I am a small business owner tics for a judge," said Bantner. "My skill running my own law firm, The Bantner set fits well with what is expected of a Firm," said Bantner. "After several years County Court Judge. A County Court of running my own firm and raising my Judge hears numerous motions, The son, I decided it was time to give back cases are often smaller, and the judge to the community," added Bantner. will often oversee cases involving Bantner has the experience necesunrepresented litigants," added Bantner. sary to be a County Court Judge. "I am Bantner has been endorsed by the only candidate in Group 2 that is a Representative Jake Rayburn, Earl Board Certified Criminal Trial Attorney. Lennard, former Superintendent This is the highest distinction an attorHillsborough County Public Schools, ney can receive from the Florida Bar," and Rick Lott, Mayor of Plant City. said Bantner. Board Certification for For more information on Bantner lawyers in Florida recognizes an attorand his campaign for County Court ney's special knowledge, skills and proJudge in Group 2, please visit ficiency in various areas of law and pro- www.bantnerforjudge.com.

Long time Plant board member of Plant City resident, Jamey City Main Street, a board Moody is running for member of the Plant City Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce, Circuit Court Judge in a committee member of Group 25 on Tuesday, the Planing Board of August 28. Moody has Plant City , committee the requisite combinamember of South Florida tion of experience, a Baptist Hospital spirit of volunteerism Foundation Investment and professionalism to and a Rotary Club memmake him a fair, honber. est and respected Circuit Court Judges Jamey Moody, a third generation Circuit Court Judge. thousands of handle resident of Plant City, shown here Moody has prac- with his wife, Courtney and their two cases each year. As boys Duncan and Jimmer (James such, judges need to be ticed law for 15 years. Moody IV), is running for Circuit "My experience of litifair and impartial. Court Judge in Group 25. gating hundreds of cases has prepared "Despite litigating in an adversarial sysme for the bench in an enormous way," tem, I always strive to be fair, honest said Moody. "My practice as a civil litigaand professional in advocating for my tor has enabled me to handle cases from client as well as in my working relationintake through multi-day jury trials. I ships with opposing attorneys," said believe jury trial experience is essential Moody. If you doubt this, just look when seeking judicial office," said Moody. Moody's campaign and endorsements. In addition to his practice, Moody "The people I have worked against have has worked as a volunteer attorney (pro signed up to be a part of my campaign," bono) with Bay Area Legal Services. "My said Moody. pro bono legal work has helped me to "I believe I have shown the capabiliunderstand and appreciate the vast disty of handling a variety of matters both connect between between the need for judiciously and efficiently. I will make legal representation and the financial abil- decisions quickly but with careful foreity to obtain it," said Moody. "As a judge, I thought, and look forward to serving he believe my pro bono experience will help residents of Hillsborough County with enable me to be an asset to the commuintegrity, fairness and discipline," said nity in presiding over cases involving pro Moody. se litigants," added Moody. For information about Moody’s camMoody is an ardent believer in compaign, visit www.votejametmoody.com. munity service. He is the Secretary and

By Kathy L .Collins

ELECT ADAM BANTNER

SERVICE: Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors (2014 – Present) Brandon Rotary Member of Bell Shoals Baptist Church LEADERSHIP: Past-President Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Past-President Tampa Tiger Bay Club Youth Baseball Coach FishHawk Youth Baseball EXPERTISE: Board Certified Attorney Super Lawyers Rising Star (2012 – 2018) Perfect AVVO “10.0” Rating. Adam is a member of the Rotary Club of Brandon, on the Board of Directors of the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, as well as a member of the Greater Riverview, Plant City, Valrico Fishhawk and Sun City Center Chambers of Commerce. is a graduate of Florida Southern College and the Florida State University College of Law. Adam Bantner can be reached at 8133973965 or via his campaign email info@BantnerForJudge.com. His campaign website is www.BantnerForJudge.com. The Primary Elec!on is August 28th, but you can also vote by mail or during Early Vo!ng.

By Kathy L. Collins

U.S. Senate

Early Voting is set up before both the Primary Election and the General Election. This year, Early Voting will take place for the Primary (August 28) from August 13 through August 26 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For the General Election (November 6), Early Voting will take place from October 22 through November 4 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can review your ballot and request a Vote By Mail Ballot from the Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections Office by visiting www.votehillsborough.org. No matter which method you choose to vote- By Mail, Early Voting or on Election Day, your vote counts.

Republican Primary

Rick Scott For more information, visit www.rickscottforflorida.com.

Rocky De La Fuentes For more information, http://vote.rocky101.co m/en_us.

U.S. House District 16 State House District 57 State House District 59

Jan Schneider For more information, visit www.VoteJan.com.

Republican Primary

Democratic Primary

David Shapiro For more information, visit www.voteshapiro2018.com.

Mike Beltran For more information, www.electmikebeltran.com.

Sean McCoy For more information, www.facebook.com/ VoteSeanMcCoy.

Ronda Storms For more information, visit www.rondastorms.com.

Joe Wicker For more information, visit www.joewicker.com.

Circuit Court 13 Judge

County Court Judge

Group 25 Candidates

Group 5 Candidates

Cissy Sevelin For more information, visit www.cissysevelin.com.

Starr Brookins For more information, visit www.starrforjudge.com.

Robin Fuson For more information, visit, www.electfuson.com.

Jared Smith For more information, visit www.judgejaredsmith.com.

Jamey Moody For more information, visit www.votejameymoody.com.

Bill Yanger For more information, visit www.yangerforjudge.com.

County Court Judge Group 8 Candidates

Jack Gutman For more information, visit www.gutmanforjudge.com

E. Michael Isaak For more information, visit www.isaakforjudge.com.

LaShawn Strachan For more information, www.electlashawnstrachan.com.

Group 2 Candidates

Lanell Williams-Yulee For more information, visit www.vote4yulee.com.

Lisa Allen For more information, visit www.allinforlisaallen.com.

Adam L. Bantner, II For more information, visit https://bantnerforjudge.com.

Greg Green For more information, visit www.votegreggreen.com.

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County Commissioner Primary Candidates Countywide District 2 Republican

Ken Hagan For more information, visit https://votekenhagan.com.

District 5 Republican

Chris Paradies For more information, visit www.chrisparadies.com.

Victor Crist For more information, visit www.commissionervictorcrist.com.

District 7 Republican

Todd Marks For more information, visit www.toddmarks.com.

Angel S. Urbina Capo For more information, visit www.angelsurbina.com.

District 5 Democratic

Elvis Piggott For information, visit www.voteelvis2018.c om.

Mariella Smith For more information, visit www.mariellasmith.com.

District 7 Democratic Candidates

Aakash Patel For more information, visit www.patel2018.com.

Ray Chiaramonte For more information, www.rayforhillsborough.com.

Mark Nash For more information, visit www.electmarknash.com.

Kimberly D. Overman For more information, visit www.kimberlyoverman.com.

Sky U. White For more information, visit www.skyuwhite.com.

School Board Candidates Countywide District 2 Candidates

Stacy Ann Hahn For more information, visit www.votestacyhahn.com.

Sally A. Harris For more information, visit www.votesallyharris.com.

District 4 Candidates

Rod Mayhew For moreinformation, www.facebook.com/RodM ayhewforSchoolBoard.

LaShonda Davison For more information, visit www.lashondamdavison.com.

Melissa Snively

For more information, visit www.votemelissasnively.com.

District 6 Candidates

Scott ‘Mr. H’ Hottenstein For more information, visit www.MrHforSchools.com.

Robert A. Pechacek For more information, visit http://votepechacek.org.

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Mitchell Smithey For more information, visit www.votesmithey.com.

Kelso Tanner For more information, visit www.kelsotanner.com.

Henry “Shake” Washington For more information, visit www.shakeforschoolboard.com.

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WWW.PALMER-HOUSE.COM

Robin Fuson Has Experience Needed To Serve As County Circuit Court Judge, Group 25

If You Want To Fix Broken Programs, Vote For Scott Hottenstein For School Board, District 6

For the past 25 a substitute teacher and years, Robin Fuson as a server in a restauhas spent nearly rant," explained Fuson. everyday in court. "I This hard work love everything that included 10 years as a goes on in court," said professional baseball Fuson who is a candiplayer and three years date for Hillsborough as a coach. "My baseCounty Circuit Court ball career taught me a Judge in Group 25. lot about dealing with Fuson added, "I knew different personalities early on in my career and about teamwork," that i wanted to serve said Fuson. as judge." Fuson is a Robin Fuson, shown here with his In Fuson's long Hillsborough County wife, Sally, his mother, Amelia, daughters, Tori and Lyndsey and legal career, he has native. He received his granddaughter, Amelia, is a candi- B.A, degree from USF represented both date for Hillsborough Circuit Court sides of the law havJudge in Group 25. He would like and his law degree you to cast your vote for him on ing worked as a prosfrom Stetson University Tuesday, August 28. ecutor for eight years. College of Law. He has For the last 18 years, he has managed been married to Sally for 33 years and and worked in his own practice, Robin has two grown daughters and one Fuson, PA. granddaughter. He is a member of both The experience of representing all the Greater Riverview Chamber of sides in both criminal and civil litigation Commerce and the Greater Brandon has allowed Fuson to form an underChamber of Commerce. standing of how he wants to see people Fuson has been endorsed by treated and issues resolved in court. "I Florida Attorney General, Pam Bondi, believe judges need to be seasoned the Hillsborough Tax Collector, the professionals. They need experience in Hillsborough County Property Appraiser both the law and in life," said Fuson. " and the Mayor of Temple Terrace. Fuson has worked hard not only in Fuson said, "I have both the life his legal career (having tried over 200 experience and professional experience jury trials and argued thousands of preneeded to be a fair and just trial and evidentiary motions) and in his Hillsborough County Circuit Court life overall. "I have worked hard my judge.” whole life in a variety of jobs including at For more information on Fuson, a drug store, as a gas station attendant, please visit www.ElectFuson.com.

Scott "Mr. H" Hottenstein. "I want Hottenstein, a resipeople to know that I dent of FishHawk am engaged with the Ridge in Lithia is runcommunity and what ning for Hillsborough goes on in classCounty School Board rooms. I want to lisDistrict 6, a county ten and solve probwide seat. lems rather than say Hottenstein is retired this is the way we from the United have to do it," added States Navy after 24 Hottenstein. Scott "Mr. H" Hottenstein is running for distinguished years 'We must renew Hillsborough County School Board District focus on the stuof service . In the 6. The campaign is run by former and curNavy, Hottenstein dents. We can do rent students. held positions of command and had this by administering schools in a bottoms extensive experience in leadership and up manner. Teachers and principals know management of large budgets. what their schools need. We cannot He is now a Social Studies teacher at assume that the district knows what is Barrington Middle School and has taught needed in individual schools. The district there for five years. has taken autonomy away from the prin"I am running for school board cipals," said Hottenstein. because I see a need to restore faith in "Finally, we must fix that which is the school board, renew a focus on the broken. This includes bringing back students in the classroom, and fix the courtesy busing, stop deferred mainteproblems that are broken in the school nance and negotiate with teachers on district," explained Hottenstein. pay and other issues in good faith," Hottenstein's wife, Laura, is a added Hottenstein. Guidance Counselor at Rodgers Middle "I am in the classroom. My wife is a School. "I am able to see things from Guidance Counselor, and my children inside the school both because I am a are in public school. I have skin in the teacher and because of my wife's position game. I have the perfect combination of as a Guidance Counselor," said experience and skills to do the job necHottenstein. essary to get public education back on "We must restore faith in the school the right track," said Hottenstein. board. Residents need to be able to trust Hottenstein would like your vote on school board members to do their job of Tuesday, August 28. managing the budget and being an advoFor information, visit cate for public education," said www.MrHforschools.com.

By Kathy L .Collins

EXPERIENCE THAT COUNTS Robin Fuson has been an a!orney in Tampa for over 24 years. In addi"on to being a former Hillsborough County Assistant State A!orney and a former Adjunct Professor at the University of South Florida, he has been in private prac"ce for 16 years. His memberships include the Florida Bar, Florida Jus"ce Associa"on, Hillsborough County Bar Associa"on, Tampa Hispanic Bar Associa"on, Carrollwood Bar Associa"on, the Carrollwood Area Business Associa"on, Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Tampa Bay Tiger Bay Club and the Hillsborough NAACP. Robin Fuson graduated from the University of South Florida and Stetson University College of Law. Prior to a!ending law school, he was a professional baseball player and played in the 1988 World Series for the Oakland Athle"cs. He has been married for 34 years, has two grown daughters, a granddaughter and a!ends Bell Shoals Bap"st Church. You can reach Robin Fuson by calling him directly at 8139674186 or via email at robinfuson@aol.com. Visit his website at www.ElectFuson.com and then cast your vote for him by mail, during early vo"ng, or on Primary Elec"on Day Tuesday, August 28th.

By Kathy L. Collins

DISTRICT 6

Judge Jared Smith Seeks Re-Election As County Court Judge, Group 5

Public Service Is A Way Of Life For Lanell Williams-Yulee, County Judge, Group 8

Judge Jared that I gave up my Smith serves as a successful construcHillsborough County tion law practice in Judge. He was 2017 to accept an appointed by appointment to the bench," said Smith. Governor Rick Scott in 2017. He is up for "Besides having re-election on actually worn the Tuesday, August robe and having a 28. Judge Smith is proven track record in Group 5. of success as a "I currently judge, I am also board certified. Only serve as a Judge Jared Smith (third from the Hillsborough Judge, left),shown here with his extended family, is six percent of seeking re-election as a Hillsborough Florida attorneys handling domestic County Court Judge. He would like your board certified, are violence and county vote on Tuesday, August 28. and less than one civil matters. In percent are certified in construction law. domestic violence court, emotions can My military service, board certification and run high and the stakes are very high as time on the bench are all factors which well. It is important to not only have a judge who understands the law but can set me apart from my opponent," said carefully listen to both sides and make an Smith. effective ruling based on the law and Smith is married to Suzette, and they facts," said Smith. have four children. Smith is a deacon and "I have handled thousands of domes- long time member of Idlewild Baptist Church. tic violence cases in my time on the "I have learned there is a huge differbench, and I look forward to continuing to serve in this capacity or whatever there is ence between making arguments before a need of at the courthouse," added a judge and having to actually make the Smith. calls as a judge. It is an awesome Prior to his time serving as a County responsibility that I do not take lightly. In Court Judge, Smith served in the United addition to following the law and effectiveStates Air Force. "I was a practicing attor- ly handling the constant flow of matters ney when 9/11 happened, and I immedibefore the court, it is also very important ately felt the call to abandon my 'tradition- to be a careful and respectful listener," al' legal career and to serve my nation," said Smith. explained Smith. For more Information on Smith, "It is with this same heart of service please visit www.judgejaredsmith.com.

Lanell WilliamsWilliams-Yulee Yulee wants to fulfill a credits her love of servlifetime dream of ice to her grandfather becoming a judge. who served in the Williams-Yulee is a canU.S.Navy. "In addition, didate for County Court my father and husband Judge in Group 8 and served and now my son would like your vote on is serving in the Armed Tuesday, August 28. Forces. I have a great Williams-Yulee has appreciation for the mili27 years of legal experitary and the freedoms ence. She served as a we have," said public servant for 17 Williams-Yulee. years during which time Lanell Williams-Yulee possesses the This is not the first she worked as an competence, integrity and experi- time that Williams-Yulee Assistant State Attorney ence necessary to be an effective has run for judge. "I will judge. She is running for County and Assistant Public not give up. I consider Judge in Group 8 on Tuesday, Defender. She has myself a fighter. I was August 28. spent nine years in priborn weighing only one vate practice. "I practiced in every area of and a half pounds. I have been fighting practice in which a County Court Judge my whole life, and I will bring that same presides. This includes domestic violence fight and persistence to the bench to cases, DUIs, Traffic Court and county impart justice and equality for all people," court civil litigation," explained Williamsexplained Williams-Yulee. Yulee. "After 17 years of public service as Before opening her own practice, an Assistant Public Defender and as an Williams-Yulee partnered with now State Assistant State Attorney, becoming a Senator, Darryl Rouson and worked judge, in my opinion, is a natural progresbriefly with Morgan and Morgan. sion of becoming the 'ultimate public serIn addition to an expansive practice, vant'. In summary, my public service Williams-Yulee has devoted herself to experience coupled with my personal life providing extensive pro bono service to experience intertwined with my passion to those who cannot afford an attorney in dispense justice for all people separates various areas of the law. Williams-Yulee is me and sets me apart from my competia wife, mother and business woman. tors," said Williams-Yulee. Despite all that she does, Williams-Yulee Williams-Yulee asks for your vote on finds time to give back to the community Tuesday, August 28. For more informain a variety of ways. tion, please visit www.vote4yulee.com.

By Kathy L. Collins

JUDGE JARED SMITH A!er September 11, 2001, Judge Jared Smith made the decision to come to the aid of his country by entering the United States Air Force. During his service in the Air Force, he was sta"oned at MacDill Air Force Base for several years as a Judge Advocate General. In addi"on to twice receiving the Air Force Commenda"on Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal and the Na"onal Defense Service Award, Judge Smith was recognized as a Heroes at Work Award winner by the Tampa Bay Business Journal in 2014. Following his military service, Judge Smith became a partner at the Tampa law oďŹ&#x192;ces of Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell, P.A., and he is a Board Cer"fied Construc"on Law Expert. This August, Judge Smith will celebrate 20 years of marriage to his wife Suze$e and along with their four children are ac"ve members of Idlewild Bap"st Church where Judge Smith serves as a Deacon and Adult Bible teacher. The Governor of Florida appointed Jared Smith as Hillsborough County Judge in 2017, where he currently presides over cases of domes"c violence and civil disputes. Please show Judge Smith your support by visi"ng www.JudgeJaredSmith.com and with your Vote in August!

Lanell Williams-Yulee has a track record of representing the law. With 27 years of experience she has prosecuted, defended and provided countless hours as a public servant. She wishes to continue to serve, but now as a County Court Judge.

Greg Green County Judge’s Motto “Experience, Integrity And Committed To Service”, Group 2

LaShawn Strachan Has Passion And Commitment For Service To The Community, Group 8

serves the community Attorney Greg Green has dedicated and our youth as a volhis life to serving the unteer football coach at people of Hillsborough Robinson High School County. and board member of The Crossing Church Green was born, Pastoral Care/Bibical raised and educated Counseling. here in Hillsborough Seven generation’s County. He grew up in of his family have called a community-service Hillsborough County, oriented family who home. In fact, Green taught him that serving fondly refers to his community is the Hillsborough as his “forhighest honor that an ever home”. Green is individual can achieve. Greg Green’s motto and background married and has two Green’s love for of Former Prosecutor, Former this community came Assistant Attorney General, AVVO young daughters, born early in life. He attend- Rated 10, Ten Best Family Lawyers and raised right here in by AFILA, Member of Hillsborough, Hillsborough County. ed Chamberlain High Florida & Family Law Section of the Green, believes our School where he Bar gives him ample experience as County Court Judge, Group 2. legal system should worked hard as a stuserve as the foundation dent-athlete under the that protects and guarantees our rights Friday night lights of the Chiefs’ football and freedoms. Green chose to run for team and as a basketball standout. There, he learned the value of teamwork, three reasons: (1) to ensure all litigants who appear in Court enjoy equal access preparation and fairness providing him and receive fair treatment under the law, with important principles that guides him (2) to continue the family tradition of pubin the courtroom today. lic service, and (3) to continue serving as Green’s service to Hillsborough a real and tangible role model for his chilCounty continues through his professiondren. Green will work tirelessly to ensure al and personal involvement in the comthat justice is dispensed fairly and imparmunity. He is honored to have served in tially. Green has real experience, proven our county as a prosecutor and assistant leadership and the right temperament to Attorney General where he worked tirelessly to ensure justice in our courts every serve as your next County Court Judge, Group 2. day. He is a business owner and foundFor more information, visit ing partner law of Green Law, P.A. Outside of his profession, Green also VoteGregGreen@gmail.com.

LaShawn Strachan today 20 years later. is passionate about “I have proven my service to the communicommitment to serving ty. Strachan would like this community. I am the to continue her pursuit only candidate with over of this passion by serv20 years of volunteering ing as County Court experience. I was a child Judge. Strachan is runadvocate as a Guardian ning for County Court Ad Litem volunteer and I Judge in Group 8 and also trained hundreds of would like your vote on citizens in this county to Tuesday, August 28. be child advocates. I con“I went to law tinue to give back by parLaShawn Strachan has over 20 ticipating in a community school to help people of experience of volunteering redress workshop sponand that is still a driving years as a child advocate and practicing force in my life today,” law in Flordia. Strachan has the sored by the George temperament and experience nec- Edgecomb Bar said Strachan. “As a essary to become an effective judge, I will have an Association, as well as County Court Judge. She is runopportunity to change being involved in local ning in Group 8 and would like your vote on Tuesday, August 28. ministries,” explained people’s lives for the better. I have been in courtrooms in many Strachan. counties all over this state, and I have Strachan is a solo practitioner in seen many great judges, and unfortuTampa. The focus of her practice is prinately, some not good. In order to make a marily family law, probate, guardianship fair and just decision, the judge must and general civil litigation. Strachan has have the ability to listen to all sides, know one child, Kayla, and two grandchildren, the law and have the courage to apply Jerome and Royal. the law fairly to everyone,” added, What sets Strachan apart from her Strachan. opponents? “In addition to my years of Before attending law school, experience as a lawyer, and my many Strachan became a volunteer with the years of giving back to this community, I Guardian Ad Litem program in Broward have the temperament necessary to be a County. She represented the best interest successful judge. Treating everyone with of children. Strachan continued to repredignity and respect, even when they are sent those who could not afford an attornot being respectable, is a virtue I posney through law school, and in fact, she sess,” said Strachan. graduated in 2000 with honors for pro For information, visit www.electbono legal work. She continues to do this lashawnstrachan.com.

Staff Report

By Kathy L .Collins

Debbie Katt Is Running For Florida House 57 This November

Sally Harris Brings Hometown Values To School Board, District 2

Debbie Katt, a ing for the arts and culture Democratic candidate and and environmental issues. long time resident of These are not partisan Valrico (Bloomingdale), is issues but the legislature running for a seat in is failing to do its job," Florida House District 57. said Katt. Katt does not have an Katt is a mathematiopponent in the Primary cian. She solves probElection, so she will be on lems for a living. "I underthe ballot for the General stand big systems with Election on Tuesday, complicated interactions November 6. and complex downstream Katt, a software engiimplications," said Katt. neer and analytical con"We need to fully fund sultant for SAS for 19 public education. We Debbie Katt is running for years, had long thought of Florida House District 57. Katt have $2.8 million in will be on the ballot this running. She was conunfounded mandates. November for the General cerned that her job would How are school districts Election. be in jeopardy if she had to take time off supposed to pay for these mandates? when the legislature is in session. "I got Things do not add up, and that is why I mad and wondered who represents work- am running," said Katt. ing men and women like me," said Katt. "My mission statement is to proThe tipping point that caused Katt to mote, improve and deliver fairness and decide to run came in February when the excellence in service to the people of my majority in the legislature blocked HB 219 district and throughout the State of (a bill to ban assault rifles) from being Florida," explained Katt. "I am running debated. "The Parkland High School for Florida House District 57 in the shooting had just happened. With stuGeneral Election in Nivenber because I dents looking on, the majority would not believe it is my civic duty," said Katt. even allow this bill to come to the floor for Katt has been married to Michael for debate," said Katt. 15 years and they have one daughter, "I decided right then and there that Sara, who attends the local public these students and my daughter school. Katt received her BS degree deserve better," explained Katt. "I am from Texas A&M and her Master's fighting for reasonable solutions such as degree from North Carolina State. Katt is fully funding our public education sysa singer with the Master Chorale. tem, affordable health care and housing, For more information on Katt, enact reasonable gun safety laws, fundplease visit www.debbiekatt.com.

Raised in South Today she is a Tampa, Sally Harris nationally recognized began her professional child care provider, educareer at the age of 16 cator and speaker working at the Tampa addressing issues from Post Office Federal early child education, Credit Union while special needs programs attending Robinson and marriage enrichHigh School. ment. After college she Sally Harris was chose to follow a career elected to the School as an Occupational Board, in District 2, in Specialist/Career 2014 and is currently Counselor with the the Board Chair. She is Sally Harris is running for School Hillsborough County of seven members one Board District 2. She is currently board chair. School System utilizing responsible for making her experience and policy decisions and training in such a way to relate to young overseeing a total budget of $2.9 billion people faced with their choices for future for the 8th largest school district in the careers or education. She continued to nation. equip herself with additional courses at â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is my goal to make sure the district the University of Florida in management has Highly Effective Teachers in each skills, stress management, time manageclassroom teaching our students daily,â&#x20AC;? ment and values clarification. Her choice said Harris. of careers lead to five years of service on Harris has visited every school in her the board of the Florida Vocational area all four years in office. She listens to Association, where she served as State the Stakeholders and shares with the disPresident of this 5,000 member associatrict areas to improve to help. She has tion. During this time she represented the also attended all the graduations and State of Florida as a State Consultant in even been a substitute at Ruskin the states of Virginia, Texas, Alabama Elementary to continue to be an advocate and Georgia. for all of her schools in doing what is best She is also widower and mother of for students. In addition, Harris has ridden five children, three by birth and two a bus route to better understand the adopted. Her love for children lead her process and help support students who from 1969 thru 2016 to raise over 32 fosride the bus. ter children in which today she is still in For more information, visit www.votecontact today with several of them. sallyharris.com

By Kathy L. Collins

Staff Report

Page 52

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 8