Bloomingdale/FishHawk 41-50
22
April 2022
Volume 21, Issue 4
Ph: 657-2418
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
COUNTRY STAR BRETT YOUNG SURPRISES LOCAL RESIDENT ABBIE SIMMONS AT 10TH BIRTHDAY
By Lily Belcher
wrote him a letter asking if he would please come because he is her favorite singer. We mailed it to the record label,” said Camaray. Since Young was unable to make it to Abbie’s first red carpet-themed birthday party, her mother purchased a life-size cutout for the party, which she said was a big hit, to her surprise. Young’s team did reach out to Camaray to set up a time for Young to visit since he could not make it to the scheduled party, so Camaray threw another party for her Country singer Brett Young surprised Abbie Simmons for her birthday.
Abbie Simmons, a Lithia resident, got the surprise of a lifetime for her 10th birthday when country music artist Brett Young attended her birthday party after receiving an invitation to the red carpet-themed event and sang his single “Lady” for the fourteen girls. This was the first time Abbie has invited a celebrity to her birthday party and was content with just having hope that he would show up. Her mother, Camaray
Abbie Simmons and her 13 guests were surprised by country artist Brett Young.
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
By Makenzie Atkins
The number one show television personality who on the Paramount Nettakes a no-holds barred Osprey Observer team members work, Bar Rescue took approach to helping hoKerrie Hoening, Kate Quesada, over Southeastern Hilltels, restaurants, bars and sborough County early Marie Gilmore & Mckenzie Atkins businesses reach their full line up for a Bar Rescue filming at this year to revamp a potential. He is also an inJF Kicks/Jimmy’s. few beloved restauternational celebrity, New rants. York Times best-selling Bar Rescue is a author, highly sought-afpopular TV show that ter hospitality consultant spends about five and is the creator, execdays at a time fliputive producer and star ping restaurants. The of Paramount Network’s show visited the area number-one show, Bar for almost a month to Rescue. help three local spots Once his team is on site, and one Ybor location. Taffer spends time analyzLocally, AJ’s on the River, now known as ing how the establishment runs on its own Jerry’s Dockside Bar and Grill; The Forge, along with checking out competing restauwhich became The Crowne Irish Pub; and rants in the area. The next night, the show Jimmy’s, formerly known as JF Kicks were welcome locals in to order food and drinks all given a refresh with new menu items, to complete what they call the stress test. makeover, paint, seating and appliances. Once this is finished, Taffer and his experts “AJ’s has always been a great place to work to train the employees on bartendhang out, but I think Bar Rescue elevated it ing, cooking or any other areas where staff from a local hangout to a destination place,” is lacking, then the team transforms the said Leda Eaton, a frequent diner at AJ’s on kitchen and dining area with new things the River who was at the resturant during like equipment and seating. Finally, the bar filming and excited about the changes. “It opens back up, usually under a new name, had all the elements already—great water for the local diners to check out the totalviews and friendly staff—but Bar Rescue ly revamped bar. Shows will air in a few added things that took it to the next level.” months when editing is complete. Each night, locals are invited to take part For more information, call The Crowne at in filming in different ways. As the show 813-548-7090, Jerry’s Dockside Bar and can only allow so many diners into the Grill in Gibsonton at 813-605-4621 or Jimrestaurant, people begin lining up hours my’s at 813-643-7777. in advance in hopes to make it inside. After waiting in line, producers perform COVID-19 tests on those first in line up to ONEBLOOD DRIVE .................................PG 3 the amount of people they can allow in. Fi- BAYCARE HEALTH HUB ................... PG 15 nally, once everyone passes the test, filming begins, and everyone let in stays for hours EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 25-26 SUMMER CAMPS......................PGS 41-48 until it is complete. Show host, Jon Taffer is a larger-than-life
IN THIS ISSUE:
Postal Customer
ECRWSS EDDM
PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397
daughter. Abbie thought Young would simply be talking to her via video. Needless to say, Camaray was shocked when the country artist walked into their living room. “The pancakes and pajama theme came about because Brett Young could come in the morning to do the surprise, so we told the girls his manager wanted a theme so we could take pictures,” said Camaray. “The girls love a theme, so they were instantly on board and were beyond excited for just the zoom call.” He performed his song “Lady,” which Brett Young sings “Lady” to Abbie Simmons and her is about his own daughter. Camaray friends. said it meant so much to have him sing Simmons, tried not to get her daughter’s the very meaningful song to her daughter hopes up as she did not want Abbie to be in their home. disappointed if he did not show. “He did something so special for her,” “She had asked if she could invite him said Camaray. “I will be forever thankful for to her birthday. She wanted a red-carpet him making my little girls dream come true. party with her friends and a DJ. She hand- It will be a forever memory.”
BAR RESCUE GIVES NEW LIFE & NAMES TO JF KICKS/JIMMY’S, THE FORGE/THE CROWNE IRISH PUB & AJ’S ON RIVER/JERRY’S DOCKSIDE
Not to be combined with any other offer. Only valid at Riverview, FL - Boyette location.
The first-ever Tampa Bay Rodeo and Family Festival gallops into the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on April 8 and 9 with extravaganza features nonstop rodeo action with heart-stopping bronco busting and thrilling barrel racing as well as a festival full of delicious food and exciting games for the whole family. Full article on page 14.
4/30/2022
$40 OFF BRAKES Includes Free Brake Inspection Not to be combined with any other offer. Only valid at Riverview, FL - Boyette location.
4/30/2022
Page 2
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 4
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
YMCA PROGRAM HOSTS NFL PLAYERS CHRIS PRESSLEY AND JERRY BELL
By Lily Belcher
Former NFL players Bell and Pressley talk to the students of the Fit and Fun program at YMCA Camp Cristina.
Recently, YMCA Camp Cristina hosted former NFL fullback Chris Pressley and tight end Jerry Bell to talk to the kids in the Fit and Fun program at the YMCA. The Fit and Fun program is in its third year after receiving a grant from the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County that has allowed it to bring around 20 children nutrition and exercise information in a fun and interactive way. The visit by the two former Buccaneers was just one of numerous activities for its after-school program. “We’re basically teaching them how to set themselves up to be more successful as an adult and to, hopefully, maintain a healthy weight,” said Healthy & Safe Children Director Nicole Ketterman. During the hour-long visit, Pressley and Bell discussed the importance of an active lifestyle and emphasized a healthy and balanced diet with the group of 6 to 11-year-olds. Pressley emphasized fighting for goals, staying focused and having fun during this health journey while
Bell discussed a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight. “It just struck home to me. I said, ‘This is something I definitely need to be involved with. Let’s talk to the kids about fitness.’ The earlier they get started on their journey to health and fitness, the better off they are,” said Pressley, who was a member at the YMCA and the Big Brothers Big Sisters program growing up. The Fit and Fun program is a part of the YMCA’s after-school program. The grant from the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County has allowed them to give all their students Fitbits so they can track their steps, participate in challenges and become more conscious of their healthy habits. “This session is part of Fit and Fun at the Y, a curriculum-based program that focuses on fitness and nutrition education, increasing physical activity levels and preventing childhood obesity for children enrolled in the YMCA after-school programs,” said Senior Communications Director Cathy Mayo. “Through grants and a partnership with the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, this program is provided free to kids and their families.” For more information on the YMCA’s youth development programs, visit ymca. org.
Page 3
COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO DONATE BLOOD FOR LOCAL NURSE
By Libby Hopkins
Alice Beary is a and great grandFishHawk resident mother,” Elms said. and as a nurse, she “Since she has given has been helping back to her comthose in need for munity through her many years, but now nursing career, we Beary is the one who felt it was time to is in need. give back to Alice.” In November, Burnhart is thankBeary was diagful for Elms’ help on nosed with stage 4 spreading the word lung cancer. Oneof how important it is Blood Florida and to donate blood, esthe FishHawk compecially when somemunity are coming one from their comtogether on Satmunity needs it badly urday, April 30 to like Beary. “Fishdo a blood drive in A blood drive will be held for Alice Beary, a Hawk is my territoBeary’s honor. “It’s local nurse, on Saturday, April 30 from 10 ry, and John-Michael amazing,” Beary is my chairperson for a.m.-4 p.m. in FishHawk. said. “All the work the FishHawk area,” that everyone in the comBurnhart said. “He helps me munity is doing to help me with setting up the drives is phenomenal.” and he also sends out comJohn-Michael Elms is munications to the FishHawk a FishHawk resident and community about when the advocate for blood donadrives are happening as well tion. “I have been donatas advocates about the iming blood for many years, portance of blood donations.” and when we moved to Burnhart and Elms hope the FishHawk area, I was surprised that the FishHawk community will come out there wasn’t a big push for blood dona- to donate blood for Beary. tion,” Elms said. “I reached out to Flor“Donating blood is saving lives,” Burnida OneBlood and connected with Hope hart said. “Alice truly needs blood and Burnhart, and we joined forces to get platelets to battle her cancer, so it’s more people from FishHawk to donate most important to get people from the on a regular basis.” community to donate blood and plateBeary is a neighbor of Elms, and when lets during the blood drive on April 30.” he found out about her diagnosis, he To help donate blood for Beary, attend wanted to help her in any way possible. the blood drive at the Osprey Club, lo“Alice is wonderful woman, neighbor, cated at 5721 Osprey Ridge Dr. in Lithia, nurse, dog lover, mother, grandmother from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Page 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FISHHAWK CREEK ELEMENTARY HOSTS FINE ARTS NIGHT
By Michelle Caceres
Music students at FishHawk Creek Elementary preparing to perform at an outdoor community concert on Tuesday, April 26.
Wikipedia defines a concert as a live music performance in front of an audience (they definitely didn’t get the COVID-19 memo). Since March 2020, many school concerts were cancelled or performed virtually due to concerns that COVID-19 could be at high risk of spreading because of aerosol droplets propelled through singing and wind instruments. For many parents whose students have a proclivity for the fine arts, forgoing these events have meant missing opportunities to watch their children share their talents and love of music. With vaccines widely available and COVID cases dropping, it’s time to sing again. FishHawk Creek PTA President Cindy Lavidas said music will soon be in the air—literally. After cancelling chorus last year, the school will host an on-campus, outdoor Fine Arts Night on Tuesday, April 26 at 6 p.m. The concert, hosted by teachers Todd LeBlanc and Justin Daniels, will feature various music ensembles, including drum, chorus, xylophone and recorder. The hourlong show will feature approximately 140
students. “In addition to this being the first time in two years that parents will be able to enjoy a live music event in-person, it’s also the first time our music teachers host an open-air event featuring all ensembles,” said Lavidas. “We’re excited that things are finally returning to a sense of normalcy.” The benefits of music education are immense and highly beneficial to students. Music stimulates the brain, positively impacting academic performance, assisting in developing social skills and providing an outlet for creativity that is crucial to child development. It also brings people together regardless of the limits of language, ethnicity or background. “We would love it if everyone could come out and support these budding musicians,” said Lavidas. For more information about FishHawk Creek Elementary, visit www.hillsborougschools.org/fishhawkcreek or call 813651-2150.
Volume 21, Issue 4
RIVER HILLS NEIGHBOR NEEDS KIDNEY TRANSPLANT
By Michelle Caceres
The average wait time dialysis. Doctors inserted for an organ from the a catheter so she could transplant list can take receive peritoneal dialysis three years or longer. For at home, where, for nine 25-year-old River Hills hours a night, cleansing resident Jisselle Hidalgo, fluids flow through the that time can feel like an catheter to remove waste eternity. products from her blood. Hidalgo was a child Hidalgo, who was addwhen diagnosed with ed to the kidney transfocal segmental glomerplant list in September ulosclerosis (FSGS), a 2019, hasn’t been as lucky disease in which scar tisthis time around. A possue develops on the small sible match was found parts of the kidneys that River Hills resident Jisselle Hidalgo last May, but she was is hoping to find a kidney donor filter waste from the passed over because she through Tampa General Hospital’s blood. had been diagnosed with paired exchange program. Her kidney function beCOVID-19. gan to slowly decline. At age 13, while living She is hoping that a kidney will be found in New York, she was put on dialysis, a pro- through Tampa General Hospital’s paired cedure that helps remove waste, salt and ex- exchange program, in which a living donor tra water from building up in the body. Her who isn’t compatible with the person to name was added to the kidney transplant whom they want to donate to instead dolist, and a month later she received news nates to a different matching recipient and, that a match had been found. in exchange, the donor’s recipient receives Life returned to normal for Hidalgo, who a living donor kidney from someone in the moved with her family to River Hills in 2012. same situation. Both recipients get a living She attended Newsome High School, grad- donor kidney through paired exchanged douated in 2015, began taking classes at Hill- nors. sborough Community College and she got a “My doctors have told me that finding a job at Creative World. live direct living donor is going to be chalThen, in 2018, she noticed swelling in her lenging,” she said. “My transplant team has ankles and puffiness around her eyes, and encouraged me to try to find a living donor she was waking up nauseous. willing to participate in the kidney exchange “I made an appointment with my kidney program.” doctor and after running tests, they told Hidalgo, who lives with her parents, feels me that my body was rejecting the kidney like her life is on hold. She dreams of travand that I was going to need another trans- elling, going back to school and having chilplant,” she said. dren. “It’s a waiting game right now,” she In October 2018, she received the news said. that she was in complete kidney failure. Call 813-844-5669 or email it at livingkMonths later, she started emergency hemo- idneydonor@tgh.org.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2022
W W W
.
O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R
.
Page 5
C O M
ASSOCIATED WITH OSPREY OBSERVER
By Nitish S. Rele
nitishrele@gmail.com
TRENDY BMW M440i COUPE, GRAN COUPE ARE ENJOYABLE RIDES!
7 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33592 • (office) 657-2418 • (fax) 657-4469 MANAGING EDITOR
Marie Gilmore
657-2418
ASSIGNMENT EDITOR
Kate Quesada 657-2418
editor@ospreyobserver.com
kquesada@ospreyobserver.com
LAYOUT EDITOR
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Kathi Hayes
Kathy Collins
657-2418
657-2418
khayes@ospreyobserver.com
kcollins@ospreyobserver.com
BILLING MANAGER
GRAPHICS MANAGER
Terry Vassalotti
Denise Graf
657-2418
657-2418
MARKETING MANAGER
Jenny Bennett
terry@ospreyobserver.com
Jennifer Hurst
denise@ospreyobserver.com
CUSTOMER SERVICE
657-2418
657-2418
jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
NEWS REPORTER
FOLLOW US:
jhurst@ospreyobserver.com
Taylor Wells 657-2418
twells@ospreyobserver.com
FISHHAWK/BLOOMINGDALE & VALRICO ADVERTISING
Kerrie Hoening
RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, & SOUTHSHORE ADVERTISING
Melissa Hartmann
625-1527
833-7470
kerrie@ospreyobserver.com
mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com
BRANDON & WINTHROP ADVERTISING
CHRISTIAN VOICE ADVERTISING
Melody Gershkoff
Cammie Yick
300-5152
810-8106
mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com
cyick@ospreyobserver.com
OK, so the imthe rear and you mense and vertiwill notice black cally prominent edges around kidney grill with the L-shaped tail mesh air intakes lamps and trapconveys a loveezoidal tail pipe it-or-hate-it mofinishers assimment. But once ilated into the you are agreed lower bumper upon the front area. As soon looks either way, there as we stepped into the airy xDRIVE GRAN is only love—and more BMW M440i and well-appointed cabin, COUPE love—for this incredibly our eyes fell on the massive Tires: P245/40R19 front, 255/40R19 rear energetic ride. The sec12.3-inch digital instrument Wheelbase: 112.4 inches ond-gen 2022 BMW 4 display and the 10.5-inch Length: 188.5 inches Width: 72.9 inches Series Coupe (two-door) infotainment touch screen. Height: 56.8 inches and xDrive Gran Coupe Fuel capacity: 15.6 gallons Further adding to the rich (four-door) get an overall Mileage: 22 city, 29 highway ambiance were touches of Weight: 4,169 pounds redo that will leave you aluminum tetragon trim on Base price: $58,000 flabbergasted. Both get a the dashboard. Trunk volume Website: www.bmw.com boost in width, length and is a cool 16.6 cubic feet. Othwheelbase with the coupe er niceties include dual auto and Gran Coupe reaching 0 to 60 in 4.3 AC, power moonroof, anthracite headlinand 4.5 seconds, respectively. er, power front sport seats, sport leathUnder the hood of the impressive cars er steering wheel, 20/40/20 rear seat resides a 3.0-liter, TwinPower Turbo, in- and more. line-six-cylinder gas engine blasting off Dual front and side airbags, front knee 382 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 369 and side curtain airbags are standard pounds-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm. along with dynamic stability and tracIt is mated to a standard and flawless tion control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, eight-speed auto gearbox, which is even electronic brake distribution and brake more fun with moves via the steering assist, rearview camera, front/rear park paddle shifters. Suspension is handled distance control, active braking assist proficiently via a two-joint spring strut (lane departure warning, blind spot front and a five-link rear system. Howev- monitor/detect, rear cross-traffic alert, er, the standard Adaptive M Suspension city collision mitigation), daytime runis specially tuned to enhance nimbleness ning lights and tire pressure monitoring and poise when pushing pedal to the are standard. metal. And the electric power steering Looking for style, performance, sowith variable sport has a solid and com- phistication as well as more space in a municative feel, keeping both the coupes sport car than usual? Then the four-door straight and watchful at sharp turns and Gran Coupe fits the bill. Or if you like the curves. traditional coupe style, then opt for its Slim L-shaped LED headlights flank the sibling (base priced at $56,700). Either noticeable grille while M Sport brakes, way, you will be content with German blue calipers and the M logo are sure to engineering. It’s on the finest display in grab any bystander’s attention. Walk to these two outstanding rides!
Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Random Things located at 3405 Fox Squirrel Lane, in Hillsborough County, in the city of Valrico, FL 33596 intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida Dated at Valrico, Florida this 1st day of April 2022
Specializing in treatment of:
• Rheumatoid Arthritis • Psoriatic Arthritis • Osteoporosis • Gout • Osteoarthritis • Lupus
www.SWFLRHEUM.com
813-672-2243
On Site:
• Lab • Ultrasound • Infusion Suite • Clinical Research
NOW ACCEPTING TRICARE INSURANCE!
Dr. Priya Reddy M.D. FACR Board Certified Rheumatologist
Dr. Gina Prakash M.D.
Board Certified Rheumatologist
Accepting New Patients Most Insurance Accepted
Dr. Atefeh Vafa M.D.
Board Certified Rheumatologist
Teena Lukose PA-C
Two Convenient Locations: 11954 Boyette Rd., Riverview | 4002 Sun City Center Blvd. Ste. 101
Page 6
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BACK THE LINE CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BENEFIT POLICE OFFICER’S FAMILY
By Brad Stager
The local communileaves behind, including ty will have a chance wife Mandy, a son and a to show its support to daughter. the family of deceased Some of those inTampa Police Officer volved with Back the Matthew McNeal by Line Charity Events participating in an have family or close ties 18-hole charity golf to the first responder tournament, promoted community and their as the Back the Line understanding of what First Annual Golf Toura public safety career nament, on Saturday, involves provides motiApril 2 at Summerfield vation to help others. Crossings Golf Club in “They give their lives Riverview. to the community and McNeal died of A charity golf tournament will be held to it’s something I’ve albrain cancer at age support the family of Tampa Police Offi- ways wanted to do,” 34 on January 2 and cer Matthew McNeal, who died of cancer said Founder of Back at the beginning of the year. McNeal had been an officer the Line Charity Events served on TPD’s bike unit. with TPD since 2014. Heather Cropper, who He was a member of the degrew up in Valrico and played golf partment’s Special Operations at Durant High School. Unit’s Bicycle Operations and Besides the golf tournament, Response Team and earned the Back the Line event will intwo Life Saving Awards, an clude ticket drawings with prizes Excellent Duty Award, a Comand dinner. munity Policing Award and a Summerfield Crossings Golf Unit Citation during his service Club is located at 13050 Summeras a police officer, according to field Blvd., one mile east of U.S. a TPD Facebook post, which 301, in Riverview. Tournament also describes McNeal as “a kind and hum- sign-in begins at 11:30 a.m., as do the silent ble man, who loved being a police officer.” auction and drawing of raffle and 50/50 McNeal was born in Tampa and also served tickets; the shotgun start is at 1 p.m.; and as a corrections officer with the Hillsbor- dinner is at 5:30 p.m. The cost to play is $125 ough County Sheriff’s Office after earning per golfer or $400 for a team of four. The an Associate of Arts degree at Hillsborough deadline to register is Saturday, March 26, Community College. and paid sponsorship opportunities for the The event is being organized by Back the tournament are available. For more informaLine Charity Events and is sponsored by the tion, send an email to backthelinecharity@ Firemen’s Benevolent Association of the City gmail.com or visit the Back the Line Charity of Tampa. According to organizers, the funds Events Facebook page @BackTheLineCharraised will go entirely to the family McNeal ityEvents.
Volume 21, Issue 4
FINANCIAL FOCUS
WILL YOUR MONEY LAST AS LONG AS YOU DO?
We all hope for long, healthy lives. But there’s a serious “side effect” of longevity – the possibility of outliving our money. How can you help prevent this? It’s useful to know the seriousness of the threat. Consider this: About 41% of all U.S. homes in which the head of the household is between 35 and 64 are projected to run short of money in retirement, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute. While this statistic indicates a cause for concern, it certainly doesn’t mean that you are necessarily headed for trouble – because there’s a lot you can do to help build and manage enough resources to last a lifetime. Here are a few suggestions: • Consider your estimated longevity. On average, a 65-year-old man can expect to live another 17 years, while a 65-year-old woman can anticipate about 20 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Of course, you’ll want to take into account your health and family history of longevity to arrive at a reasonable estimate. You can then use this figure to help determine how much money you’ll eventually need. To play it safe, you might even want to try to build an income stream that can last beyond your estimated lifespan, possibly up to age 90. • Don’t overlook health care costs. When budgeting for retirement, allow enough for your health care expenses, which can be considerable. Even with Medicare, you can expect to spend anywhere from $4,500 to $6,500 per year, per person, for traditional medical costs. Also, you may want to prepare for two to three years of long-term care expenses, which currently range from about $50,000 per year for home health care to over $100,000 per year for a private room in a nursing home. • Keep building assets for retirement. While you’re working, constantly try to put away as much
money as possible for your retirement years. Each year your salary goes up, increase your contributions to your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. You may also want to contribute to an IRA, depending on your goals. And within your retirement savings, make sure you devote a reasonable percentage of your investment dollars to growth-oriented vehicles that align with your goals and risk tolerance. • Seek out sources of guaranteed income. As a retiree, you will receive Social Security benefits – and the longer you wait before claiming them, the bigger your monthly checks will be. But you might also consider investments that can provide a source of income you can’t outlive, such as annuities. • Revisit your strategy before you retire. As you near retirement, you may want to review your investment strategy, possibly adjusting your risk level so that your portfolio would be somewhat less susceptible to market volatility. This is also a good time to review your spending needs in retirement. • Maintain a reasonable withdrawal rate. Once you are retired, you’ll likely need to start withdrawing from your 401(k), IRA and other investment accounts. To avoid taking out too much money too early in your retirement, you’ll need to set a reasonable, sustainable withdrawal rate based on your assets, age and retirement lifestyle. A financial advisor can help you determine an appropriate rate. It will take dedication and determination to help ensure your money doesn’t run out during your lifetime. But you’d probably agree that it’s well worth the effort. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
edwardjones.com/adam-benabram
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2022
Page 7
TAMPA ELECTRIC TO LAUNCH INNOVATIVE— AND FLOATING—RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT Staff Report In support of alternative Tampa Electric’s solutions like vision to achieve this, to maxnet-zero carbon imize space emissions by while produc2050, the coming as much pany is launching solar energy an innovative reas possible, newable energy will play a sigproject—that nificant role floats. in achieving Tampa Electric our vision Photo courtesy of Tampa Electric. of is completing net-zero construction of Tampa Electric is launching an innovative renewable carbon emisenergy project that floats at the Big Bend Power Station. a floating solar sions.” array that is exThis demonpected to be onstration projline in March. It is ect is an exthe largest floatpanded part ing solar array in of the compaFlorida and the ny’s Clean Enfirst of its kind in the Tampa Bay area. ergy Center at the Florida Conservation The company has installed 1 mega- and Technology Center in Apollo Beach. watt (MW) of solar panels atop an exist- The center is a collaboration of three ing pond at the Big Bend Power Station. champions of the environment: Tampa The panels take up about 3 acres of the Electric, The Florida Aquarium and the 14-acre pond. The panels are anchored Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation to pilings around the shoreline, similar to Commission. a boat being tied to a dock. Tampa Electric has become the leadHalf of the floating solar array’s 3,200 ing producer of solar energy per customsolar panels are double-sided, so they er in the state. So far, the company has also collect sunlight reflecting off the installed more than 750 MW of solar, water. It is Tampa Electric’s first use of with more on the way. double-sided panels. Thanks to its investment in solar powStudies have shown double-sided pan- er, Tampa Electric has repurposed hunels can produce as much as 30 percent dreds of acres of land previously used more energy than traditional panels. for agriculture, saving more than two “We are proud to lead the way on this billion gallons of water and significantinnovative renewable energy project, ly helping an area of the state that has and our customers will benefit,” said Ar- critical concerns over water use. chie Collins, president and chief execuTo learn more, visit www.tampaelective officer of Tampa Electric. “Exploring tric.com.
L09000082276
VISIT ANY OF OUR 15 LOCATIONS OR
Expiration 05/01/2022
Expiration 05/01/2022
Expiration 05/01/2022
Page 8
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
MONTEL HONORS RIVERVIEW VETS WITH MILITARY MAKEOVER
By Sharon Still
Montel Williams opened the door to show the Clarke family a completely redesigned home after his Military Makeover team did its magic for these selfless veterans.
The Military Makeover with Montel TV show, led by Montel Williams, a veteran of both the Marine Corps and the Navy, came into town recently, and for six days, contractors, designers and volunteers worked feverishly to give a makeover to the Riverview home of veterans Kari and Adam Clarke and their two sons. Family, friends, neighbors, volunteers and the East Bay High School Junior ROTC Color Guard gathered as the rain poured steadily, awaiting the family’s arrival for the big reveal. Military Makeover co-host Art Edmonds proclaimed, “This is all about community. Rain, cold, wind—nothing could stop us.” Williams’ Military Makeover show seeks out deserving veterans and does a complete design renovation on their home as a way of offering a helping hand and saying “thank you.” “This is our 29th season,” said Williams. “We are proud to making a forever home for a two-veteran family.” “She is so deserving,” said Kristine Dugas about her sister, Kari. “She is always helping others.” From landscaping and new paint outside to
new lighting, appliances, furniture, artwork and even a cat tree to entertain their fuzzy feline, the house had a whole new flair and function. Additionally, the Clarkes received a hyperbaric chamber from Grunt Style, which will aid in Kari’s autoimmune disease. “That is really exciting and very helpful,” said Kari. “We are so glad they like it,” remarked co-host Lacey Evans at the big reveal. “Our whole team nailed their personality.” After meeting at The Veterans Administration hospital, Kari and Adam found that their similar experiences brought them closer together. Both served as army sergeants in different areas and saw the horror of the front line in war, losing close friends, cheating death and encountering horrific situations that would stay with them for life. The aftereffects of an accident during training left Kari with several herniated discs in her spine and being diagnosed with auto-immune disease, forcing her to medically retire long before she hoped to end her military career. Though both Adam and Kari continue to battle their emotional and physical scars, and they spend their time giving back and supporting others. Kari serves as president of Post 9/11 Veterans, an organization in Tampa that focuses on integrating the community together with returning veterans. Many volunteers and businesses throughout the community donated their time and products during the six-day shoot, including Chill Cawfee, Lowe’s of Riverview, Bath Fitters, SERVPRO of Brandon/Riverview and others. Smith & Steele Design served as general contractors throughout the entire project. Nominations for Military Makeover can be made at www.mililtarymakeover.tv. The Clarke family’s show aired on Lifetime on March 11.
QUARTETS CONCERTS FOR 2022 FREE - Will Offering
DIXIE ECHOES
INSPIRATIONALS From Ft. Worth, Texas
April 1, 2022 @ 7pm
May 1, 2022 @ 6pm
813.677.1301
9912 Indiana St. (Hwy 41 & Estelle Ave) Gibsonton, FL 33534
Volume 21, Issue 4
What You Can Do About
Back Pain
Low Back pain is a $600 billion dollar industry in this country. That is outrageous! Musculoskeletal pain is unfortunately very mismanaged. Why make simple problems complex? With all mechanical pain, there’s a ‘what’ and a ‘why’ — what the problem is and why it’s occurring in the first place. To achieve resolution, it’s crucial to not only identify and correct the problem at hand but address the behaviors which lead to the issue! Here are some self-help tips: • Keep moving! • Avoid sitting for longer than 30-minutes at a time. • Sit with upright posture with lumbar support. • Take micro-breaks: stretch, take a stroll, grab a snack, move around. • Take mental notes of what you are doing when your pain feels better or worse to identify any positional patterns. Treatment at Motion ChiroTherapy will always be in a
1-on-1 setting with the doctor for every visit. We will evaluate and reevaluate your unique symptoms and design a treatment plan to get you back in motion.
CALL TODAY Dr. Robert Lutz
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2022
GET A WHOLE NEW LOOK WITH LOCALLY OWNED 360° PAINTING
JULESTARZ DANCERS HEAD TO 2022 MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE By Makenzie Atkins
By Sharon Still
When he is not out painting the town, 360° Painting Owner Chris Seufert enjoys mountain biking and exploring nature with his partner, Jessica, and his two children, Dahlia, age 8, and Jade, age 6.
When it comes to anything, hands-on experience is always the best teacher. Chris Seufert, owner of 360° Painting of Brandon, grew up learning a variety of construction trades from his father, an architect in the Bay area for more than 30 years. As an adult, he is an active real estate investor in Tampa Bay, leading him to many painting and rehabbing projects. He now uses all of his acquired talents as owner of 360° Painting of Brandon. Servicing all of Hillsborough County, 360° Painting offers both commercial and residential painting services with the goal of exceeding customers’ expectations. “Painting is a major investment both financially and emotionally,” said Seufert. He explained that the first meeting consists of an overview of the project covering essential details, a complimentary color consultation and getting to know the client’s wants, needs, ideas and budget. “We discuss options for the best possible and most cost-effective solutions and provide a free estimate,” he added.
360° Painting offers both residential and commercial painting services using only the highest quality paints. Examples of the company’s work can be seen all over town, from many homes in the Brandon area to the Osprey Observer office, as well as warehouses to multiple floors of a building in Harbor Island overlooking Tampa Bay. “Last year, we helped more than 300 residents with their painting projects,” Seufert proclaimed. He said that most of 360°’s work is on exterior, residential projects although the company’s commercial work is expanding, as is its interior painting work. Seufert’s commitment to quality shows in the company’s many five-star Google reviews. Additionally, 360° Painting of Brandon recently earned the home service industry’s coveted Angi Super Service Award (SSA). This award honors service professionals who have maintained high service ratings and reviews on Angi in 2021. “Our homeowners’ consistent positive reviews make it clear: these are the top pros in our network,” said Bryan Ellis, senior executive at Angi. Giving back to the community also is important for Seufert. Recently, 360° Painting provided free interior and exterior painting services for the building and dog shelters at Raining Cats and Dogs in Plant City. Among other projects, Seufert is excited to announce that 360° Painting is in conversation with the local Paint Your Heart Out charitable organization for both paint and labor donations for upcoming projects. Check out www.360painting.com or call 813-567-8156 for further details.
Jason DiMeo, CFA
Do you understand the risk in your portfolio? Do you know if your portfolio is truly diversified?
Jason DiMeo, CFA Contact us for a complimentary risk assessment today.
Jason.DiMeo@AllWealth.com P (813)490-6610 100 N Tampa Street, Suite 3750, Tampa, FL 33602 All Seasons Wealth is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities are offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.
Page 9
Do you love seeing local community members on the big screen? Julestarz Academy for Performing Arts is fundraising to send its dancers to the 2022 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and it needs our help. Julestarz Dance sent in an online application, including a video of the dancers, in hopes to participate in the 2022 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and it was accepted. Now, it needs to raise money so all the dancers can afford to attend. “I am so excited to bring my students to this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in New York City,” said Julie Kenny, owner of Julestarz Academy. “We are now fundraising and looking for sponsorships to help our dancers and their families participate.” The team will be made up of 25 dancers ages 13 and older, and Julestarz expects the cost to be around $4,000 per dancer. This includes a six-night stay, airfare, food, costumes and other miscellaneous costs. Even though the team has been accepted, they are not guaranteed until they are able to register. Since most spaces are filled up by the summer, the dancers are hoping to raise the funds as soon as possible because they do not want to register until they know they can afford it. In order to raise the money, Julestarz will be doing various fundraisers, like
Julestarz Academy for Performing Arts is fundraising to send its dancers to the 2022 Macy’s Day Parade.
food trucks at the two studios, car washes, parents’ night out and sponsorship opportunities. There are five sponsorship levels ranging from $100 to $2,500 or more each with different incentives to help. As a sponsor, you will receive things like tickets to the Julestarz annual recital in June 2022, a logo or mention on the recital program, a logo on the company T-shirt and social media tags. The different levels offer increased incentives for the higher level of sponsorship that you choose. There are two Julestarz Academy centers, one near FishHawk Ranch at 16131 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia and the other at 13126 Elk Mountain Dr. in Riverview. Along with dance, Julestarz offers music and aerial dance lessons. The academy also works to instill self-confidence, self-respect, discipline and imagination into all its students. If you are interested in learning more about Julestarz Academy, please contact Kenny at info@julestarzacademy.com or visit http://julestarzacademy.com/.
Page 10
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 4
LOCAL EASTER EVENTS, EGG HUNTS, BUNNY VISITS AND MORE
Compiled by Kate Quesada
Easter Bunny Makes Home Visits starts at 10 a.m. sharp on Saturday, April 16 https://southbay.church/. The Easter Bunny is making home visits and registration is not required. The orga- FishHawk Fellowship Church throughout the area! He will deliver a treat nizers plan on hiding approximately 5,000 Hosts Park Square Easter Extraveggs filled with goodies and trinbox and take photos kets, so bring your baskets and aganza with you. Spots are very limited, call 813645-8777 to sign up. To learn more, visit www.playtimeapollobeach.com.
Playtime Apollo Beach Hosts Bunny Bash
On Saturday, April 16, babies and children up to 5 years old and their caregivers are invited to visit and take pictures with the Easter Bunny and attend an egg hunt, enjoy music and crafts, eat snacks and play at Playtime Apollo Beach’s indoor playground. Tickets must be purchased in advance. They cost $30 for one child and $25 to add a sibling, and two adults are included with each child. There will be a morning party from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and an afternoon party from 2-4 p.m. Call 813-645-8777 to register. To learn more, visit www.playtimeapollobeach.com.
get ready. There will also be an area specifically for toddler Easter egg hunters. To ensure the safety of everyone, the Wheeler Rd. entrance will be closed during the event, so please enter Kerby’s Nursery via Parsons Ave. Kerby’s Nursery is located at 2311 S. Parsons Ave. in Seffner and can be reached at 813-685-3265. To learn more, visit www.kerbysnursery.com.
On Saturday, April 2 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., FishHawk Fellowship Church will host an Easter Extravaganza at FishHawk Ranch’s Park Square. The event is free and open to the public. The church’s Good Friday service will take place on Friday, April 15 at 6:30 p.m. and Easter services will take place Saturday, April 16 at 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 17 at 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. To learn more, visit www.fishhawkfc.org.
money raised will be split between Community Pet Project and Small But Mighty Heroes. Reservations are strongly recommended. Sign up at Community Pet Project’s Facebook page or www.signupgenius.com/ go/10C0F4EA4A92BA0FCC70-easter1 or call 813-530-6722. Learn more about Community Pet Project at www.communitypetproject.org.
Waters Church Apollo Beach New Hope Hosts Easter EGG- Community Pet Project Hosts On April 9 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Waters Easter Bunny Photos stravaganza On Saturday Church in Apollo Beach will host an Egg Join New Hope United Methodist Church for an Easter EGGstravaganza on Saturday, April 16, from 12 Noon-2 p.m. This is a free community event featuring a bounce house, photo opportunities, hot dogs, popcorn, snow cones and more. Don’t forget your Easter baskets to collect your eggs! For more information on Easter at New Hope, visit findnewhope.com/easter.
South Bay Church In Riverview Hosts Egg Hunt And More On Saturday, April 9 from 10 a.m.-
At Last Chiropractic Hosts Annu- 12 Noon, South Bay Church in Riverview will host its Eggstravaganza Egg al Egg Hunt
Hunt with inflatables, games, music, food trucks and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Easter services at the church will take place on Good Friday from 7-8 p.m. and on Easter Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. South Bay Church is located at 13498 U.S. 301 S. in Riverview. To learn more, visit
Easter lovers of all ages are invited to the second annual Easter egg hunt at At Last Chiropractic in Lithia. It will take place on Saturday, April 2 at 11 a.m. at 5613 Skytop Dr. in Lithia. Call 813-461-6500 for more information.
Easter Egg Hunt At Kerby’s Nursery
The Easter egg hunt at Kerby’s Nursery is back! This free event Private Charters: 4 hour, 6 hour, 8 hour & 2.5 hour Sunset Cruises. Cruising the Alafia River and Tampa Bay.
and Sunday, April 9 and 10, the Easter Bunny will be at the Springfest Fundraiser at HorsePower for Kids from 12:30-3:30 p.m. The Easter Bunny will be taking pictures with kids and families for a suggested $25 donation. Attendees will receive five digital images emailed to you from its photographer, Angela Renea Photography. All money raised will go into its general medical fund. A second event will take place on April 9 at Mighty Hero Nutrition, 3240 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 103 in Valrico. The Easter Bunny will be ready to take pictures with families. Two and four legged children are welcome and Southern Reflection Photography will be donating her time to be the photographer. Each participant receives a goody bag from the Easter Bunny and for a suggested donation of $25, five digital photos will be emailed to you. All
Hunt Extravaganza with music, food, a visit from the Easter Bunny, a 50-50 raffle, vendors and give-aways. The church will also celebrate Easter with services on April 17 from 9:30-11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. It is located at 5309 N. U.S. Hwy. 41. For more information, visit https://waterschurch.org/.
Center Point Church
Center Point Church will be hosting Easter services on Saturday, April 16 at 3pm and 7pm, and Sunday, April 17
at 9am and 11am. Our CC Kids environment will be hosting an Easter Glow Party during all of our Easter services on both Saturday and Sunday. The Easter Glow Party will include a glow-in-the-dark dance party, games and prizes, slime and more. Additionally, we are hosting a community-wide Spring Fling event on Saturday, April 16 from 4-7 which will include a slide, inflatables, petting zoo, face painting, Easter egg hunts, food trucks and more. Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists
BOOK ONLINE License #L20000250797
Call/Text 813-815-6220
Email: info@tikiboatofriverview.com
TIKIBOATOFRIVERVIEW.COM
WE TAKE THE PAIN OUT OF PAINTING, AND PUT THE WO BACK IN WONDERFUL!
(813) 723-9124 or (813) 670-8565 www.tandjpaintingfl.com
GROWING COMPANY looking for a great PAINTER to Join Our Team!
START TODAY!!
SUNDAY, APRIL 3 • 10 AM - 3PM CROSS PARK
16144 Churchview Drive, Lithia
LAKE BRANDON VILLAGE 11325 Causeway Blvd • Brandon (813) 655-1237
Hours:
6am - 10pm
BRANDON SOUTH 2010 Bloomingdale Ave • Valrico (813) 571-0569
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2022
TRANSPORTATION OPEN HOUSES HIGHLIGHT LACK OF FUNDING FOR SOUTH COUNTY PROJECTS By Sharon Still Hillsborough posed 1 percent County recenttax increase. “We ly held a series of came here looking Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n for answers,” she Open Houses with added. the goal of gatherCommissioning residents’ feeder Stacy Whites’ back about transaides helped resportation needs idents voice their while showcasing opinions via sticky the lack of funding notes placed in every area, from on a large map. A stretch of Boyette Rd. as it crosses over U.S. Hwy. sidewalks and traf- 301 is identified by the county as a “severe crash Residents addfic signals to pedesed their opinions corridor.” trian walkways and and suggestions roadway capacity. to the areas they Commissioner were concerned Gwen Myers greetabout, adding to ed guests at the the mass of coloropen house in Rivful notes already erview, saying that placed from the she again would open houses in be championing other districts. a 1 percent sales Erica Elwell, The Transportation Open House in Riverview surtax to be on the along with resiattracted many who are opposed to a proposed 1 ballot in November. dents who live off percent sales surtax. Her comments were of both Big Bend met with grumbles from the crowd and and Boyette Rds., complained about the incitizens passing out flyers encouraging res- creasing traffic every year from their homes idents to reject the tax hike. to I-75. Both of these roads have stretches Storyboards mounted on easels lined the marked “severe crash corridor.” perimeter of the room, each one showing “It used to take me five minutes to get maps and indicating how much money is to the interstate,” said Elwell. “Now, it can needed for already-identified issues and take up to 40 minutes during the morning how much money is available to fulfill these rush hour, and there is an accident almost needs. The outlook shows a significant short- every day.” fall in funding and inadequate revenues. Chris Wilkerson, representing HillsborAt the Riverview open house, residents ough County, commented that the workseemed to walk away with more questions shops were held with the intention of than answers. Many questioned the status getting input from the citizens about infraof the $521 million collected from the orig- structure needs but also served as a way to inal sales surtax collected in 2019-21. The open communication about the 1 percent referendum was later overturned by the sales surtax. Florida Supreme Court, and the money is The board of county commissioners held sitting in the courts. a workshop following the open houses to “This is a real eye-opener,” said former discuss residents’ concerns. County Adminprosecutor Krisanne Hall, also a professor istrator Bonnie Wise commented, “Each and at the River School of Government based every comment that they provided is valued out of The River at Tampa Bay Church. The and appreciated and helps us to better ungroup of students accompanying her were derstand the needs of the community.” among those passing out flyers with details To learn more, visit www.hillsboroughof why residents should vote ‘No’ on the pro- county.org.
BLOOMINGDALE SENIORS KEEP UP RED LETTER TRADITION Staff Report The Red Letter first high school Envelope Project class to get a sehas been a tradinior year that was tion at Bloomingremotely normal. dale High School They are finishing for more than 10 their final year of years. Seniors are high school after given red envecompleting only lopes filled with one full term of cards and letters in-person schoolof congratulations ing: freshman and encourageyear. They have ment from famdone a fantastic ily, friends, past job of keeping old teachers or coachtraditions alive es to help them Red letters are due to Bloomingdale High School and starting new prepare for college ones.” seniors by Wednesday, April 13. or go off into the world. There is plenty of time for parents, “This has been a time-honored tradi- guardians, family and friends to get their tion for 10 years,” said Ariel Raymond, red letter envelopes to the seniors. The Red Letter Envelope Project coordinator red letter envelopes are due by Wednesat Bloomingdale High School. “It is such a day, April 13 at Bloomingdale High special thing for the senior class. Letters School. come from those who had an essential “All letters and cards will be sorted, role in their academic journey and those kept safe and confidential. If you don’t who wish them well. Knowing that some- know a senior but want to bestow some one took the time to write to them means wisdom, feel free to send over letters or a lot to the seniors.” cards as well. Just don’t put a name on The red letter envelopes bring some the front,” said Raymond. history with them as well. Red envelopes If you would like to send a senior a have been gifts presented at social and red letter envelope, please make sure the family gatherings such as weddings, hol- cards or letters are no larger than 8 in. x idays and especially Chinese New Year. 10 in. Packages, gift cards and cards with The red color of the envelope symbolizes confetti are not allowed. good luck and is a symbol to ward off evil Please keep all envelopes flat, and spirits. Red envelopes are usually given please do not send anything of value as out to the younger generation, who are the school is not responsible for it. If you still in school or unmarried. It is tradi- send several envelopes inside a large entional to put brand-new notes inside red velope, please put the student’s full name envelopes. on all envelopes. “The red envelopes will be given to the If you have any other questions, please seniors during senior breakfast,” Ray- get in touch with Raymond at ariel.raymond said. “The Class of 2022 was the mond@outlook.com or 813-484-9707.
Clean, Protect & Beautify The Outside Of Your Home $109
Page 11
$109 $149
FREE
PHONE ESTIMATE
$109 $109
Page 12
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 4
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE TAMPA BAY LOOKING FOR RAINFALL OBSERVERS
NEWSOME SENIOR HONORS VETERANS THROUGH OPERATION CLEAN BERETS
As the cool, dry hurricanes and Florida winter gives tropical storms way to the balmy and can be winds of spring, the more accurate daily chance of rainy than weathweather increases. er radars that The amount of preactually only cipitation that falls on provide rainfall the area is something estimates and the National Weather are subject to Service (NWS) likes to calibration ertrack, so it is recruitrors. ing volunteer weather Photo courtesy of the US National Weather Service Tampa Austen Flanwatchers to help it do Bay Florida Facebook page. nery is the NWS so. A rainbow frames weather radar facilities at the Na- Tampa Bay CoLocal residents tional Weather Service Tampa Bay office in Ruskin. CoRaHS coorwith an interest in the dinator, and he weather can join the NWS Tamsaid this is an opportunity pa Bay office in Ruskin’s rainfall for people with an interest in monitoring efforts by becoming weather and climatology to part of the Community Collaboget involved in a meaningful rative Rain, Hail and Snow Netway. work (CoCoRaHS). The volun“CoCoRaHS data has teer weather observers monitor proved to be invaluable for rainfall amounts on their properbuilding a more complete ty and report the measurements picture of rainfall patterns to the NWS via a secure online across the Tampa Bay region. portal. There is no fee to particReports are used for everyipate, but volunteers may need thing, from the evaluation of to purchase a standard four-inch, high-ca- impacts associated with tropical cyclones to pacity rain gauge that costs around $30 if continually improving our understanding of they do not already possess one. The train- day-to-day rainfall patterns in the summer ing required to properly collect and record months, to understanding the severity of rainfall is accomplished via a short training drought conditions as they occur. The informodule that is completed online. mation not only allows the National WeathThe data collected is used by the NWS er Service to fulfill the Weather-Ready Nato supplement information provided by its tion vision, but it also allows our residents to array of high-tech weather monitoring sys- engage in citizen science, promoting service tems and it is helpful to other agencies in and stewardship in the process.” the water business, such as the Southwest You can learn more about the NWS volWater Management District, for planning unteer rainfall observer program by visiting future projects. The information is also help- www.cocorahs.org, or you can send an email ful to the NWS during major rain events like to Flannery at austen.flannery@noaa.gov.
Eighteen-year-old ilies. I’ve always Newsome senior been passionate Reilly Weicht is doabout helping veting her part in our erans, so this projcommunity by honect seemed like a oring veterans who good way to honor have passed away them,” Weicht exthrough her Girl plained. Scout Gold Award While not curproject, Operation rently in a military Clean Berets. family, Weicht Oakside Cemetery is dedicated to veterans. Second-in-complans to go into mand in Newsome’s service in her future. JROTC, Newsome’s She honors veterans branch of Rho with the hope that Kappa and the Naone day someone will tional Honors Sodo that for her. She ciety, Weicht is an plans to attend Apactive member of palachian State Uniher school. She has versity after gradualso earned a threeating from Newsome year National Army High School. ROTC Scholarship Her troop leader of and has been a Girl 10 years described Scout since she was Reilly as dedicated in third grade. and extremely hard Her project, Operworking. ation Clean Berets, “When Reilly defocuses on cleaning Newsome senior Reilly Weicht is doing her part cided she want to the graves of veter- in our community by honoring veterans who earn her Gold Award ans and spreading have passed away through her Girl Scout Gold (highest honor a Girl awareness about Scout can earn), she Award project, Operation Clean Berets. the importance of honoring veterans knew she wanted to do something that through community service. honored veterans, so she worked hard Sponsored by Gene Whitfield, the may- and has shown her love for her counor of Zephyrhills, Weicht was allowed try, community and veterans with her to enter and clean parts of the Oakside actions,” said the troop leader. “Reilly is Cemetery in Zephyrhills. She cleaned the working actively to reach out and let her gravestones with special, time-consum- community know how to honor veterans ing steps so as to not damage them. and show their respect.” “My goal is to show an unconventional To learn more about Girl Scout troops way to honor veterans that is sustainable in Hillsborough County, visit www.gswcf. and means a lot to them and their fam- org.
By Brad Stager
By Ariana Pedraza
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 13
Page 14
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
CATCH ME IF YOU CAN FLIES INTO NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE
Staff Report
Live theater lovers, mark your calendars. The Newsome Wolfpack Theatre will perform Catch Me If You Can, a musical, from Thursday to Saturday, April 21-23 in the Newsome High School Theatre, located at 16550 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. The musical is based on Catch Me If You Can: The True Story of a Real Fake, a semi-autobiographical book about Frank Abagnale Jr., who, before his 19th birthday, successfully conned millions of dollars’ worth of checks as a Pan Am pilot, doctor and legal prosecutor. An FBI agent makes it his mission to put him behind bars, but Frank not only eludes capture, he also revels in the pursuit. The movie starred Leonardo De Caprio as Frank and Tom Hanks as agent Carl Hanratty, and it was directed by Stephen Spielberg. “That our theater program is 100 percent student-run is a credit to our students’ creativity, work ethic and their want to do amazing things,” said Theater Artistic Director Chad Cornwell. Assistant Director and Principal Stage Manager Brielle Pulli has been involved with Newsome’s theater program for three years and served as direc-
tor and stage manager for the fall production of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible and now for Catch Me If You Can. Pulli said, “You have to step up and grow as a leader here. We practice everything we learn in most all of our classes. Math and science factor into all of our tech crews. We are thinking about history when we think about the 1950s for this show. Of course, reading and English. But this is more like a job where we have deadlines and expectations rather than just a fun after-school activity.” “This show is exciting on its own, but we are bringing so much more to it,” said Ashlyn Lopez. “It’s going to be the best musical Newsome has ever seen.” Senior Jake Perez (playing Carl) plans on majoring in theater after high school and pursuing a career in the business. He already has credits with Stageworks Theatre and ThinkTank Theatre. Perez agrees, saying, “I have been involved with theater for four years at Newsome, every show. This is really going to be the best show, with a great cast and crew.” The show opens on Thursday, April 21 at 7 p.m. and running through Saturday, April 23 at 7 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on April 23. Tickets are available now at newsomewolfpacktheatre. ludus.com.
BRANDON TERMITE & PEST CONTROL
Termidor
MEMBER WEST FLORIDA
10 Year Guarantee
Against Subterranean Termites
Main Office: 108 S. St. Cloud Ave. • Valrico • Fax 685-3607 • 6am-6pm
Serving: Clearwater-Lakeland-Orlando-Plant City For a FREE ESTIMATE call (813) 685-7711
#1 Bug Muggers Since 1973
EXPIRES: 9/30/2020
Exp 4/30/2022
Volume 21, Issue 4
RODEO COMES TO HILLS. COUNTY Staff Report Are you looking be sold throughout for a fun, exciting the night, includfamily event that is ing barbecue, corn new to the area? dogs, fried Oreos, The first-ever turkey legs, tacos, Tampa Bay Rodeo lemonade and much and Family Festimore. On April 9, val gallops into the Tampa-area faHillsborough Counvorite Soul Circus ty FairCowboys will welgrounds on come guests into Friday and the Family Festival, Saturday, performing live on April 8 and stage in the Coors 9. The twoBanquet Beer Barn day exfrom 4:00-5:45 travaganza p.m. features nonstop The EBA sancrodeo action with tioned rodeo heart-stopping bronspotlights cowco busting, thrilling boys and cowgirls barrel racing as well from across the as a festival full of South competing delicious food and The first-ever Tampa Bay Rodeo and Family in the most popuexciting games for Festival gallops into the Hillsborough Coun- lar events for top the whole family. prizes, plus mutton ty Fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday, The fun starts at bustin’ for young April 8 and 9. 4 p.m. each day with the Family Festival wranglers ready to test their skills each and continues with the rodeo competi- night. The bulls, broncs and barrels are tion beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are on presented by 5s Bucking Bulls. sale now for $15 per person. Tickets at The following sponsors are pleased to the gate will be $20. Children 5 and un- support the Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family der are free. Festival: Coors Banquet, Courtesy Auto The jam-packed evening of activities Group - Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM, RAM, begins at the Family Festival, hosted by Everglades Equipment, the Tampa Bay America’s Favorite Cowboy, Andre Mc- Times, US 103.5, Hooters, Rumba 106.5 Clain, who will encourage guests to try and Taylor’s Forklift Repair & Services. their hand at axe throwing, riding the For more information and tickets, mechanical bull or a host of other pre-ro- please visit https://hillsboroughcountydeo challenges for cowpokes of all ages. fair.com/tickets. Families can get close to farm animals in The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds the interactive barnyard, ride a camel or are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. take part in face painting. Tasty grub that in Dover and can be reached at 813-737will please even the littlest wrangler will 3247.
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
LONGTIME VALRICO RESIDENT DEVELOPS INSTAGRAM FOLLOWING
By Libby Hopkins
pictures eventually became Freda’s Instagram page, @fredas_food. “I was very hesitant to do so, but I was constantly being nudged by my wife and her friends,” Freda said. “I enjoyed cooking and I always took pictures to share with a small group of friends but never thought of
During the recent COVID-19 pandemic, Keith Freda of Valrico created an Instagram page that showcases the delicious meals he cooks and grills.
Keith Freda has lived in Valrico for 44 years after moving from New Jersey as a toddler. “I’ve been married for 16 years to my wife, Alli, and have two boys, Reid and Cole,” Freda said. “I grew up playing baseball locally at North Brandon Little League and football for the Brandon Cowboys. I attended Armwood HS, playing varsity baseball, and then two more years playing JUCO ball for HCC.” His background is sports, but his hobby is cooking and grilling. “I have a huge extended Italian family, so food has always been a big part of our lives and gatherings,” Freda said. “I guess it was in my blood to have that desire to prepare food and bring family, friends and loved ones together.” During the pandemic, Freda had a lot of time to cook and grill. “I do not have any training or a culinary background but learned most of what I know from talking to people and following experts and learning various techniques via online platforms like YouTube and Instagram.” Freda always shared pictures of his food creations with his friends and family. These
posting on social media.” Freda had an Instagram account for personal use, and it was locked down to only close friends and family. “Social media was not my thing, so, originally, I really didn’t want to get sucked into managing a public account,” Freda said. “I obviously caved, and I’ve had the account up for about a year now.” Freda has had great feedback from his Instagram followers. “Usually it’s ‘When can I come by to pick some up?’ or ‘What time is dinner served?’,” Freda said with a laugh. “I’ve also had some people tell me they always check out my account to determine what they are going to eat that day. It’s nice to know that people are using my posts to help them with the meals they are planning for their families.” To see what Freda is cooking, check out his Instagram page at www.instagram. com/fredas_food.
Page 15
BAYCARE HEALTHHUB CHANGES HOW YOU LOOK AT HEALTH
By Amy Schechter
Imagine a one-stop shop for all things health and wellness. BayCare brings that dream to life with its state-of-the-art HealthHub, conveniently located in Valrico. Whether you want to see your physician, go to the gym or learn healthy habits, it has something for you. BayCare realizes your health is more than treating symptoms. It wants to take steps to educate clients and encourage healthy lifestyles. While its HealthHub offers primary and pediatric doctors and urgent care, along with imaging and labs, it offers so much more. The on-site fitness center provides a variety of weight machines and free weights as well as more than 50 group exercise classes weekly. It also has a custom yoga and cycling studio with a dedicated outdoor fitness area. Worried you may not know where to start? BayCare’s medical fitness program, available to qualified patients, can help you build balance, combat diabetes, rehabilitate after an injury or surgery and improve your overall health through daily physical exercise. The BayCare HealthHub also has some exciting new programs launching soon, according to Vjollca ‘Viola’ Hysenlika, system communications strategist at BayCare. “We’re really excited to launch a pet care clinic as well as a serenity garden. These are activities we know promote being active.” Plus, it is in the process of
developing a demo kitchen where patients and clients will learn recipes and practices from registered dieticians and health professionals to increase their knowledge
BayCare’s state-of-the-art HealthHub is conveniently located in Valrico.
of nutrition. “It’s going to be a wonderful addition to an already outstanding facility as nutrition is an important aspect of overall health and wellness,” Hysenlika added. Plus, it has some great programs combining education and health. Wondering if you’re physically ready for a game of golf? BayCare can help you reach your mobility and endurance goals after assessing your ability to play the game. It also has DriveABLE, a driving assessment program that helps anxious teens and adults gauge their readiness for driving. If you’re ready to make 2022 a healthier year, definitely check out BayCare’s HealthHub. For more information, call 813-5868600 or visit baycare.org/locations/b/ baycare-healthhub-bloomingdale. The BayCare HealthHub is located at the corner of Bloomingdale Ave. and Lithia Pinecrest Rd. at 2470 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. It is open Monday to Thursday from 5 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday from 5 a.m.-8 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Page 16
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 4
SPIRIT FM CATHOLIC WOMEN’S CONFERENCE RETURNS TO FLORIDA STATE FAIRGROUNDS By Kelly Wise Valdes Grab your reer, Schlapprizzi has had the friend, sister, opportunity to learn and explore neighbor or living through Christ in our moddaughter and ern world. celebrate at this “My hope is what they will year’s Spirit FM hear is a sense of their worth, … Catholic Womwhat their next step is for what en’s Conference God is calling them to be,” said at the FloriSchlapprizzi during an interview da State Fairwith Spirit FM. “It’s a moment grounds Expo for them to Hall. This fanstep away, tastic, seventh to be able to annual event is breathe, to hopeful for a rehear a voice cord attendance of encourthis year with agement—a seating available The seventh annual Spirit FM Catholic Women’s Conreminder of for more than ference is being held on Saturday, April 2 at the Florida who they are, of 2,000 guests. State Fairgrounds Expo Hall. One of the guest speakers is the possibilities Deby Schlapprizzi, a nationally acclaimed speaker, radio Women of all we have, and a host and author. denominations reminder of the are warmly welcomed and encouraged to truths of our faith.” attend. The day begins at 8 a.m. with Mass celeLike many major events, the pandemic brated by Bishop Gregory Parkes, including caused cancellations of this annual confer- reconciliation and prayer in the adoration ence in both 2020 and 2021. However, now chapel. There will also be plenty of singing, Spirit FM is happy to announce the confer- praying, shopping and laughing. ence is expected to be bigger and better. Businesses and ministries will have an The goal of the event is to bring Spirit FM opportunity to display their works and atlisteners together to share and celebrate tendees can purchase unique gifts, crafts, their faith. jewelry and more. The two main speakers are author and Tickets start at $65 with discounts for radio personality Deby Schlapprizzi and students who have a valid student ID. VIP Florida State University Campus Minister tables are $1,000 for a table of 10. The Sister Rita Clare Yoches. ticket price includes a light breakfast, lunch, Schlapprizzi is a nationally acclaimed parking, a swag bag and more. Table and motivational speaker, television contrib- event sponsorships are also available. utor, radio host and is the author of the The conference is taking place on Saturbook, The Splendor of You. She also shares day, April 2 at the Florida State Fairgrounds, her strong principles and spirit through her located at 4800 U.S. 301 in Tampa. For tickfaith-based podcast and radio program, ets and other conference information, visit The Splendor of You®. Throughout her ca- www.myspiritfm.com/womensconference.
SENIOR CONNECTION CENTER AND GETSETUP PARTNER TO BRIDGE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE AND COMBAT SOCIAL ISOLATION
By Kathy L. Collins
Senior Connection notes. Center is offering a “Senior Connection new virtual social Center has always learning platform depursued new and insigned specifically for novative ways to help older adults. Senior older adults and their Connection Center has caregivers maintain partnered with Gettheir independence by SetUp to help bridge supporting their physithe digital divide and Senior Connection Center has partnered cal and mental health,” with GetSetUp to bridge the digital divide combat social isolation and combat social isolation by providing said Patty Suarez, vice for residents 60 years a platform where seniors can participate president of marketing and older or their care- in live, interactive learning opportunities and communications for giver. The partnership Senior Connection Centaught by older adults. provides 10,000 live, interactive classes on ter. GetSetUp. The only requirements are that “We are so excited to be able to offer this you must live in one of Senior Connection new, user-friendly tool, GetSetUp, to local Center’s service area, including Hillsborough seniors and their caregivers at no charge to County, and be 60 years or older. them,” added Suarez. GetSetUp’s customized platform offers Senior Connection Center’s mission to an interface for older adults to learn, create help older adults and persons with disabiliand share their wisdom safely. The platform ties live with independence and dignity. helps to address the social determinants of GetSetUp is on a mission to help those health by ensuring older adults stay connect- 55 years and older learn new skills, connect ed to the tools they need to thrive and age with others and unlock new experiences. in place. GetSetUp’s live, interactive learning The social learning platform helps over 4.4 experiences range from everyday techni- million older adults in 160 countries stay cal skills to enrichment-focused courses on mentally and physically fit, creates economhealthy cooking, virtual travel and more. All ic opportunities through jobs and reskilling classes are taught by experts who are older and provides a community where people adults themselves. find connections. Through GetSetUp’s custom-built video Those 60 years and older and their carelearning interface, the experience has been givers who live in Hillsborough County (and tailored to older adults of all tech levels. the other four counties that Senior ConnecThe platform offers support via phone and tion Center serves) can begin the GetSetUp in all classes to assist learners with tech- registration process by visiting the homepnology and includes a booking system com- age of Senior Connection Center’s website plete with regular reminders and after-class at www.seniorconnectioncenter.org.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2022
WE-TRIUMPH OFFERS NEW PROGRAMMING TO THE COMMUNITY By Libby Hopkins We-Triumph is p.m., Monday thrilled and excited through Friday. to share the opening Our innovative of its Brandon-locatlearning center ed Adult Day Training focuses on the Academy with the interest and specommunity. cial needs of our “Our academy is students so they geared to educate can learn and adults with intellecmaintain their tual and developmenindependence. tal disabilities,” said We offer supWe-Triumph’s CEO, ported employWe-Triumph is thrilled and excited to share the Kimberly Quintana. ment programs, opening of its Adult Day Training Academy with the “Our innovative learnhealth and wellcommunity. ing center focuses on ness classes, job the interest and specific needs of consum- skills training and independent living skills to ers who may benefit from additional train- include budgeting and money management. ing focused on everyday chores and tasks Our program offers weekly classes to inthat allows them to live a full, productive clude training such as how to dress properly, and confident adult lifestyle. Classes assist hygiene, music and art class, etiquette, cookin supporting those skills needed to reach ing and caring for small pets. Our grocery and maintain goals that aid in their indepen- store has a cash register and POS system for dence.” our students to learn job skills. We particiQuintana was inspired to create We-Tri- pate in supervised outings that assist them umph by her daughter, Brandy, who has de- with skills to thrive in social settings.” velopmental disabilities. “I’ve always wantQuintana hopes the community will ened her to experience life as an independent gage this program and help it to grow. young adult but was not able to find the “We envision our program growing and right setting that offered services to give reaching more students and families each her the skills she needs to thrive,” Quintana and every day,” Quintana said. “We want to said. “It’s always been my priority that she reach and teach others in our community has the proper tools to learn to live with her who would benefit and grow by the services disability and not enable her because of it. I we provide. Our dedicated staff is commitknew she would flourish if she were given ted to providing the best learning experithe essentials, such as learning to live inde- ence available to empower everyone to live pendently, developing social skills and learn- their adult lives as independent members of ing to follow through on responsibilities.” society.” We-Triumph is a day program aimed toTo learn more about We-Triumph, located wards adults ages 18 and over with intel- at 780 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon, and its lectual and developmental disabilities. “Our new program, visit www.we-triumph.com or program operates from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 call Quintana at 813-662-4531.
Page 17
Coffee Too Hot? Try What is CHILL NITRO COFFEE? Nitro coffee, simply put, is our dark roast coffee which has been kegged and infused with nitrogen gas, giving the drink its name. Food grade nitrogen gas creates small bubbles in the coffee and gives the drink a thick and creamy texture.You can definitely see and taste the difference The nitrogen also forms a dense head that is similar to the head of a beer. Many compare it to a stout or Guinness, where the bubbles titrate. The result is a creamy cold coffee which has full flavor and you can taste all the intricacies of the coffee.
NITRO!
boost quicker. Therefore, when adding our HEMP CBD powder, theoretically, you will also process the active ingredients in the HEMP CBD more efficiently. This combination results in a faster uptake and smooth energy without the crash.
FREE
Come into Chill Cawfee and mention Osprey Observer for a free sample of our Nitro Coffee.
SAMPLE
of Nitro Coffee
We know you will LOVE IT!
In addition to changing the texture of the with mention drink, nitrogen also helps reduce some of this ad! of the bitterness and acidity of the coffee, which makes it more palatable to non-coffee drinkers. Less acidity and increased flavor seem to be a winning combination for this popular drink.
ADD CBD POWDER and CHILL!
Does Nitro Coffee Have More Caffeine? Some scientists speculate that the nitrogen gas helps your body process the caffeine faster, so you can get your caffeine
“The staff here is amazing and have given some great advice to help my brother with his cancer. We have tried most of the products offered and he is getting some relief he needed. He is sleeping better at night and almost smiled. I am so happy to have found this place and actually got him to leave the house to visit the store in person. Thank you.” - T.W.
April 23rd Dr. Kelly King Wellness Day Renew or activate a new medical marijuana card. Visit our Facebook page or website for a list of our in-store events.
(813) 324-9472
3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd • Valrico
Mon-Thur 7:30 am-5 pm • Fri & Sat 7:30 am-7 pm • Sun 7:30 am-3 pm
10528 Lake Saint Charles • Riverview Mon-Fri 6 am-5 pm • Sat 7:30 am- 5 pm • Sun 7:30 am-3 pm
www.chillcawfee.com
DIRECTORY OF LOCAL BUSINESSES
ADVERTISE WITH US $50 per ad or as low as $200 per month* includes ALL 5 EDITIONS per month
*
Call Us Today! (813) 657-2418 or Visit OspreyObserver.com
PEST CONTROL YARD GREETINGS ELECTRICIAN
BARBER BARBER
HOME INSPECTIONS
Specializing in
YARD GREETINGS
that make any day a celebration!
Family Owned and Operated
signgypsiesriverview.com
Fans & Fixtures • Panel Changes Boat Docks • Pool & Spa Wiring Generators & Surge Protectors Remodels • Exterior & Specialty Lighting
Serving Riverview, Brandon, Plant City, Fishhawk, Lithia, Valrico and surrounding areas.
Residential and Commercial
(813)716-9196
TNTtermiteandpestcontrol.com
signgypsiesriverviewfl@gmail.com
813-530-9618
LOCAL & FAMILY OWNED “DYNAMITE CUSTOMER SERVICE”
LESSONS MUSIC LESSONS
PIANO & VOICE LESSONS Tracey Magruder tracey.magruder@gmail.com
traceymagruderstudio.com
813-672-4084
www.BryanHindmanElectric.com Florida State Certified Electrical Contractor | EC#13004922
PAINTING
ACCOUNTING
861 Lithia Pinecrest 813-653-9595
Open 7 Days
$5 OFF (NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY)
4 Point Inspections Wind Mitigation Roof Re-certifications Buyer/Seller Full Home Inspections
813-842-0740
tracer.inspections@yahoo.com
WEBSITE/BRANDING
HEAT & AC
Website Design Branding Services Marketing Material Design
Residential & Commercial Installation & Repair Commercial Refrigeration
GARY D. MEYER
ALL WORK GUARANTEED
Certified PubliC ACCountAnt
FREE ESTIMATES
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SPECIALISTS Celebrating 30+ Years In Business “20 Year Osprey Advertising Partner”
• Accounting & Bookkeeping • Compiled Financial Statement Presentations • Tax Return Preparation for Individuals, Corporations, LLC’s and Partnerships • Consulting for New Business Startups • Financial & Estate Planning
813-971-4067
gmeyer4@tampabay.rr.com Serving the Tampa Bay Area Since 1980
(813) 787-7668
www.monsterabranding.com
(813) 671-2555
Page 18
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Spring has sprung and that means new life for many species here in the Sunshine State. Animals are on the move as they mate, birth and rear their young, making it much more common to encounter wildlife this time of year. A regular springtime occurrence (and just in time for Easter) are the adorable, fluffy, brown rabbits found grazing, hopping or running in fields, yards and marshlands. Florida is home to two species of wild rabbit: the Eastern cottontail and the marsh rabbit. Both species have an herbivorous diet that consists mainly of fruits, vegetable, grasses and other vegetation. Marsh rabbits are typically found throughout the state, mostly around fresh and brackish water in swampy wetland areas. These small, brown, coarsely furred rabbits are unique because they are strong swimmers and, rather than hop, they often walk. Marsh rabbits are most active at dawn and dusk and, like all rabbits, are an important prey species to many predators, such as owls, alligators, coyotes, foxes and bobcats. Eastern cottontails are aptly named for their fluffy, white tail which resembles a cotton ball. They are widespread and the most common species of wild rabbit in North America. Eastern cottontails breed year-round but are most active in spring and summer. Females, also called does, can
Volume 21, Issue 4
reproduce several times a year and average litters of four to seven young. Their gestation lasts around 30 days. Cottontail nests are made in shallowly dug holes which the doe has covered in grass and vegetation. Mothers often leave their young for extended periods of time to feed and also to keep her nest undisturbed from predators. Many times, these nests end up in residential yards. It is important to keep an eye out during mowing and yard maintenance. These nests will always be covered with fur, leaves and grass. If you find babies without their mom, know that their mom is most likely nearby. Wild bunnies that are needlessly removed from their nests have a very high mortality rate in rehab. It is recommended that upon finding a nest, you should assess the situation and only intervene if there is an emergent, unavoidable reason to do so. Rather, if you find a nest, simply re-cover it and allow the babies to be tended to by their mother. Remember that wildlife are best left wild, and that spring is a time for appreciation for all of our amazing species. Ali Holton is currently director of FishHawk TNR Inc. She has a master’s in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation. To reach her, email FishHawkTNR4@gmail.com.
CUSTOM HAIR For the hair you’ve always wanted!
steve@mastergaragedoor.com
Lori, • Human Hair & Synthetic Hair Wigs Owner & Client • Permanent, Non-Surgical Options Since 1969 • Chemotherapy & Alopecia Specialists • Largest Selection of Human Hair Toppers in Tampa Bay • Also offering sales & service of all MEN’S hair systems FREE CONSULTATION! PLEASE CALL.
CustomHairTampaBay.com BRANDON (813) 651-9484 117 N. Kings Ave
CLEARWATER (727) 725-1052
(Across from Costco) 2643 Gulf to Bay, Ste. 1530
TAMPA (813) 932-5327 1425 W. Busch Blvd.
813.433.4047
www.ajwestfallco.com licensed✦bonded✦insured In Business Over 20 Years
FULL SERVICE CLEANING COMPANY
Residential ✦Commercial Moving/Home Sale Presentation ✦Tenant Turnover
mastergaragedoor.com Garage Door Service, Repair & Installation for:
• Residential Garage Doors • Garage Door Openers • Broken Springs • Cables • Rollers • Doors off Track
Always Free Estimates 24 years serving the community with only the highest quality parts and service.
813-551-3399
www.drjoonies.com junebryant@drjoonies.com Servicing Hillsborough and Manatee Counties
Bringing Pediatric Healthcare to your Doorstep Icky Sicky Visits and Happy & Healthy visits Direct Pay for Service Ages 0 - 21 years School entry physicals, sports physicals and immunizations Strep, flu and rapid covid tests On-demand consults when YOU need them Experienced pediatric healthcare at your fingertips
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FROM BIKES TO PLANES, TPO KEEPS HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY MOVING By Brad Stager How people and Improvement Progoods move within a gram, a five-year community affects the transportation plan overall quality of life for effective as of Ocits residents and has an tober 2021, and the impact on the cost of 2045 Long Range doing business as well. Tra n s p o r t a t i o n Locally, the HillsborPlan, which was apough County Transporproved in 2019. The tation Planning OrganiTPO also reviews zation (TPO) provides The Transportation Planning Organization plans created by has the responsibility of developing plans planning resources to various transportaand projects that keep Hillsborough County government officials tion agencies, such residents and businesses moving. who make decisions and as HART and the enact policies about what Florida Department of transportation options resTransportation (FDOT). idents and businesses have Residents can beavailable to use. It is part come involved in the of the Hillsborough County transportation planCity-County Planning Commission, which ning process by serving on one of the TPO’s makes recommendations to elected officials boards and committees, such as the Bicycle and staff members of the municipalities Pedestrian Advisory Committee and Livable of Tampa, Plant City, Temple Terrace, and Roadways Committee, among others. Hillsborough County on matters related to Currently, TPO meetings are conducted transportation and other issues of concern in a hybrid manner, held both in-person and to the community, such as managing growth online via the Hillsborough County Meetings and protecting the environment. The TPO is YouTube channel. Besides policy consideran entity mandated by state and federal law ations, updates to transportation projects, and ensures that transportation projects re- such as the ones underway to improve the ceiving state and federal money meet estab- capacity of I-75 from Moccasin Wallow Rd. lished criteria and standards. to north of Bruce B. Downs Blvd. are made. Membership of the TPO Board consists Amber Russo, FDOT project manager for of elected officials from Hillsborough Coun- the related Project Development and Envity, Plant City, Tampa and Temple Terrace as ronment Studies, said the work is needed to well as representatives from Hillsborough meet the needs of the fast-growing region. Area Regional Transit Authority (HART), “The improvements are expected to enTampa-Hillsborough Expressway Authority, hance I-75’s overall regional functionality Hillsborough County School Board, Tampa and improve the interstate’s operating conAviation Authority, Tampa Port Authority ditions,” she said of the plans, which call for and the Hillsborough County City-County adding express lanes in each direction of Planning Commission. I-75. Work performed by the TPO includes the You can learn more about the TPO by visdevelopment of the county’s Transportation iting planhillsborough.org.
Page 19
PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (never known to fail)
O Most beautiful flowers of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succeed me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you.
T.O.C.M.B.
Deep Tissue Neuromuscular Pre-Natal Sports Massage To Schedule Your Appointment
Call or Text (813) 323-4901 Professional, Licensed Massage Therapist with over 18 years experience! License # MA 39122
Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Gopher Ridge located at 13430 Hobson Simmons Rd, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Lithia, Florida, 33547, intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Valrico, FL this 1st Day of April, 2022.
Is Your Child Speaking Clearly? By the age of six, the majority of children have mastered all speech sounds in the English language.
GRADUATE of the MONTH
Rice “Rice’s clinician, Mallory, and the team at Tampa Bay Speech have worked wonders for Rice! She has learned invaluable skills and gained so much confidence. I would recommend TBS to anyone looking to improve their child’s speech, language, reading or writing skills! Five stars!” - Katherine
TAMPA BAY SPEECH, LANGUAGE & READING CLINIC Serving local area families for over 19 years!
Therapy Services: Articulation • Apraxia Auditory Processing • Autism • Sensory Feeding Disorders (813) 368-2485 (813) 368-2485 NEW Apollo Beach Park Square - Fishhawk 417 Apollo Beach Blvd. 16144 Churchview Dr., Ste. 109
We are ready to insure your Recreational Vehicles! Boats • Motor Homes • Golf Carts Travel Trailers • Motorcycles Also Offering Services For: Personal • Commercial • Auto • Home • Flood • Excess Flood Work Comp • General Liability • Commercial Auto • Rental Properties And More!
Michelle Mosher Owner/Founder
Office: 813-448-7580 Website: www.southshoreins.com
Page 20
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Coast Guard Boating Classes, Bunco, Craft Show & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
U.S. Coast Guard Offers Safe Boating Classes Online
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is restarting its safe boating class every Thursday night 6:30-9 p.m. The course is ‘Boat America, a course on responsible boating,’ and the cost is $40, which includes a printed study guide and runs for four weeks. The course meets the legal requirements for people born after January 1, 1988 who must complete an approved boater safety class in order to independently operate a boat. Students can enroll and enter the course at any time. Additional information can be found and you can register for the class by contacting Rich Strehl at rich@ protectionflorida.com or calling 813-2998236.
Newsome High School Graduation Letters
The deadline for the Newsome High School Blue Letter tradition is nearly here. Blue letters are sent to graduating seniors as a special note of congratulations and are distributed during the Senior Breakfast in May. The deadline this year is Friday, April 8. Full instructions and guidlines can be
Volume 21, Issue 4
found at www.blueletters@newsomehigh- house, located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in schoolptsa.org. Riverview. Proceeds will benefit Kappa Delta Phi’s Kids Depend on People initiatives. Bloomingdale Athletic Club Gen- Tickets are $20 and include light supper, snacks and wine or soft drinks. To purchase eral Meeting tickets, call Lily, 813-681-6006. The Bloomingdale High School Boosters will be holding its general meeting on Tuesday, April 5 at 7p.m. in the Bloomingdale High School media center. All board positions are available for those interested. For more information, please email info@bshsboosters.com by Monday, April 4 to have your name submitted.
help the hurting, hungry and addicted in the community. The Lighthouse Remnant Thrift Store is located at 7211 S. 78th St. in Riverview. Visit its website at www.lighthousegospelmission.org/remnant to find out more.
Fraternal Order Of Eagles Craft Creative Junk Therapy Classes Creative Junk Therapy is a nonprofShow
Come out on Saturday, April 2 to help support your local crafters and artisans, as the Fraternal Order of Eagles is hosting a craft show at 1810 Front St. in Valrico with over 40 vendors selling art, jewelry, tumblers, soaps, wreaths, essential oils and so much more. The kitchen will also be open to purchase food and beverages.
Communal Second Night Of PassFlorida Hawks FC is proud to join the over Seder
Florida Hawks ID Clinics
Development Player League (DPL), one of the most prestigious female soccer leagues in the country, for the 2022-23 season. Interested female players with birth years 2004-10 who are looking to join are invited to attend ID clinics for their age group. ID clinics for the 2022-23 DPL are as follows: Friday, April 1 at 7 p.m. for rising 13U and 14U; Wednesday, April 6 at 7 p.m. for rising 15U and 16U; and Friday, April 8 at 7 p.m. for rising 17U and 18/19U. Clinics will take place at the FishHawk Sports Complex, located at 16000 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. For more information and to register, visit www.floridahawksfc.com.
it creative reuse center located at 727 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Its mission is to promote creativity, environmental awareness and community through reuse. Materials are collected from local businesses and residents and then distributed to educators, artists, makers and students through a variety of opportunities. The center contains a thrift store, art gallery, class space and ‘make-and-take’ space. Upcoming classes include making a mosaic stepping-stone, fiber arts and a plant party. Visit www.creativejunktherapy.org for more details of classes and how to regis-ter.
Join Congregation Beth Shalom on Saturday, April 16 at 6 p.m. for a wonderful family Seder led by Senior Rabbi Robert Lefkowitz. You will have a choice of chicken or salmon for the meal cooked by gourmet cooks. The cost is $45 for adults and $20 for children ages 5-12, and it is free for children under 5. Reserve your place by email- Gardening Seminars At Kerby’s ing Julie Shienbaum at jul78clint@aol.com. Nursery Kerby’s Nursery is hosting some gardenFor more information, call the temple office ing seminars this spring. A Butterfly Garat 813-681-6547 or email cbs-brandon@ dening Seminar will take outlook.com. Congregation Beth Shalom is place on Saturday, April located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. 2 at 10 a.m. It will disLighthouse Remnant Thrift Store cuss different blooms that attract different butterWill Collect Donations flies and how to keep the It is the time of year for spring cleaning, butterflies in your garden. Growing tropical and the Lighthouse Remnant Thrift Store is trees will be covered on Saturday, April 9 at here to help. Call it on 813-374-6919 and it 10 a.m., including how to select, place, plant will come and pick up your donations. Not and protect fruit trees in your growing zone. ‘Kids Depend On People’ only are you clearing There is no need to register for these events, Bunco your clutter, but you just come to the greenhouse a few minutes The Kappa Kappa Chapter of are also giving back before the start time. Kerby’s Nursery is Kappa Delta Phi will be hosting a to the community. located at 2311 S. Parsons Ave. in Seffner. bunco fundraising evening of fun, All proceeds from the Details about events can be found at www. fellowship and prizes on Tuesday, store go to the Light- kerbysnursery.com or by calling 813-685April 5 at 6:30 p.m. at The Bridges club- house Gospel Mission and the mission to 3265.
FREE Unwanted Mobile Home Removal/Disposal – Any Condition!
If usable, we pay you $$$!
Citrushomecenter.com | citrushomesales@gmail.com Call Mike 407-680-3014
Cleaning Services
by Bay Area Clean Team
1 6 6 3 7 FishHawk Blvd. • Suite 1 0 1 • Lithia
Located in the FishHawk Office Park, behind Taco Bell
Schedu le You r Appointment Today!
(8 1 3 ) 6 5 7 -7 3 3 7
www.premiercarepeds.com • Commercial/Residential Services • Free Estimates • Family Owned & Operated • Licensed, Bonded & Insured
“We pride ourselves in developing a personal, caring partnership dedicated to tailoring our services to meet the individual needs of our neighbors and their families.” -Dr. Minick and Dr. Pruitt
Serving: Brandon, Lithia, Fish-Hawk, Seffner, Riverview and surrounding areas
“Cleaning the world one Location at a time”
(813) 263-6643
Regu lar Hou rs: Mon-Fri 8 am-1 2 pm & 1 pm-5 pm | After Hou rs: 2 4 hou rs, 7 days a week
SPRING IS IN THE AIR
- TIME TO MAKE WEDDING PLANS! Let us help you choose your Perfect dress.
(813) 381-4110 SatinAndLaceBridalBoutique.com Located in Winthrop Town Center (across from The Bridges on Bloomingdale Avenue)
The
Experience
Brides Deserve
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY OFFERS AN ARRAY OF PROGRAMS FOR PEOPLE By Tatiana Ortiz
Some of the educators with the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County at work.
In Hillsborough County and the state of Florida, the rate of individuals diagnosed with diabetes is on the rise. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States as well as the number one cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations and adult blindness. The CDC also stated that in the last 20 years, the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes has more than doubled. The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County recognizes the threat diabetes poses to the community and offers a Diabetes Self-Management Education Program (DSME) and a Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). DPP is an evidence-based program established by the CDC with proven results to reduce the risk
for developing type 2 diabetes. The core component of this program is that participants lose at least 5 percent of their total body weight. Laura Rangel, health educator with the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County, shared what the overall goal would be for DPP. “The goal of the Diabetes Prevention Program is to prevent participants from getting type 2 diabetes through consistent, sustainable weight loss,” Rangel said. DSME is an accredited program which was created by a team of registered dieticians, health educators and nurses. Not only does DSME offer nutrition education, but it also provides ways to reduce the risk of complications from diabetes, how to increase physical activity and more. Rangel said that the goal of DSME is to empower each participant to take care of their health rather than let diabetes rule their lives. In addition to DPP and DSME, it has other programs aimed to help people improve and maintain their health. For instance, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County provides a wellness program called Get Into Fitness Today (GIFT), a children’s wellness program called GIFT-LEAP, a heart health program called BP for Me and more in English as well as Spanish. These programs are all free to qualifying individuals. For those interested in learning more about when a class starts, call 813-3078009 or email programinfo@flhealth.gov.
Page 21
Page 22
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
JOSHUA KUEHN SUPERVISES EAGLE PROJECT AT ALAFIA RIVER STATE PARK
By Lily Belcher
“[My son] spoke to the store manager in Brandon and [the manager] was like, ‘What can I do to help? I can do this,’” said David. Joshua is familiar with the area since he has camped and hiked in Alafia River State Park for past projects and trips. It was also suggested to him as one of the
Joshua Kuehn added eight new benches, a firewood rack and a new fire ring.
Joshua Kuehn, Newsome High School senior and Life Scout in Boy Scouts of America Troop 686, completed his Eagle Scout project in February in Lithia. For the project, which he must complete before becoming an Eagle Scout, Joshua chose to revitalize the primitive youth camping area in Alafia River State Park. “He really wanted to do something close to home and he knew how the sight looked—a lot of people don’t know how it looks back there—and he knew that it would be a great thing. He really wanted to build something … so that it could be used for many years to come,” said his father, David Kuehn. Joshua, with the help of 25 volunteers, contributed 137 volunteer hours to revitalizing the area for Lithia residents. He built eight new benches, a firewood rack and a new fire ring after deconstructing the old one. The Lowes in Brandon donated all of the building materials he needed for the improvements after talking to the store manager in his Scouts uniform. Joshua gave the store manager a photo album and update on the project as a thank you for Lowes’ generosity.
A handful of former Eagle Scouts helped Joshua Kuehn with the revitalization of the park campsite.
places to conduct his Eagle Scout project by his Boy Scouts troop. Joshua will join the United States Coast Guard in August following his graduation this spring. He plans to shadow current members of the Coast Guard for six to nine months in order to decide what specific role he hopes to have. “He does a ton of water activities in Scouts,” explained David. “He’s an avid kayaker and avid wakeboarder and really likes being around the water. He enjoys it. He did all those activities in Scouts.” To see the newly revitalized camping area, visit Alafia River State Park at 14326 S. County Rd. 39 in Lithia. For more information on the Boy Scouts of America, visit www.scouting.org.
Volume 21, Issue 4
BRANDON AUTO SERVICES STANDS THE TEST OF TIME By Sharon Still For more than three vehicle tune-ups and decades, Brandon Auto repairs. “Whatever is Services has been the wrong, they will make area’s one-stop shop it right,” he said. for a wide variety of Aside from offering auto services. Owned everything you need for by Steve Holland and your car or truck under Ken Anderson, best one roof, what sets the friends since grade business apart goes school at Yates Eleback to its early years. mentary, the business When Holland and Anhas undergone several derson purchased the changes over the years business from Holland’s while always remaining father in the early the trustworthy place 1970s, they changed to bring your truck or the name to Brandon car for repairs. Auto Salvage and beFriends for life, Ken Holland and Ken Whether it’s the ra- Anderson have watched the area grow gan collecting vehicles diator or air conditionfor parts. Over the and change just like their business, ing, fuel pump or brake formerly Brandon Auto Salvage and years, they changed the problems, steering, susname to Brandon Auto now Brandon Auto Services. pension or just a pair of windshield wip- Services to fully represent what they do. ers, it can all be taken care of at Brandon “We are able to sell used auto and Auto Services. truck parts as well as do any repairs that In need of collision repairs and body our customer may need,” Holland added. work? Turn to Brandon Auto Services to It is a true family affair at Brandon fulfill those needs and take away some Auto Services. Holland and Anderson of the stress. Insurance inspections and both married schoolmates and their free estimates are offered. The techni- wives worked alongside them in the earcian will work with the insurance com- ly years. Today, Holland and Anderson’s pany to make sure everything is covered, daughters are an integral part of the documented and handled thoroughly and business. Holland added that the business clearly, then the vehicle will be repaired, also is involved in the community they repainted and restored to like new con- grew up in, sponsoring race cars, sports dition. teams and more. The tire department offers both new Brandon Auto Services offers towing, and quality used tires and wheels, includ- car rental and customer transport as ing new custom wheels. All major brands well. Call 813-689-8131 to set an apof tires are available for installation, in- pointment. For the body shop, call 813cluding Goodyear, Pirelli and Firestone. 689-8255. Visit the website at www. Brandon resident Mickey Oliver, also brandonauto.com and the shop at 3159 a classmate of the duo, regularly uses SR 60 E. in Valrico. Hours are 8 a.m.-5:30 Brandon Auto Services for his family’s p.m., Monday to Friday.
NOW HIRING
OODC20
4/30/2022
Medicare Questions? Need Help? Time to review your plan! Disclaimer: Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Not valid on dry cleaning, wash & fold, laundry or laundered shirts, leather, wedding dresses or alterations. Coupon can only be for services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. It cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 4/30/2022
MB Insurance Solutions Medicare: Supplement/Medigap Prescription Part D Medicare Advantage Term Life Insurance
OOCFTR20 OODC20
Michele L. Bartock
(813) 662-4243
1928 E Bloomingdale Ave
Independent 2-15 Agent AHIP Certified
(813) 251-2234
mlbartock@gmail.com
1529 S. Dale Mabry Hwy
tidecleaners.com
No Cost! Paid By Insurance!
www.medicareofflorida.com 813.767.2878
Not Affiliated with any Federal Agency
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 23
Page 24
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 4
Celebrating 41 Years Serving our Community Thinking it’s time for a new roof? Do you think your roof may have wind damage? DO NOT REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITHOUT LETTING US TAKE A LOOK!
ROOF REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT SERVICES
813-643-8333
www.CertifiedRoofers.com Family owned business serving our neighbors since 1981! <<< Alex (Owner) with his sons... “Our next generation of roofers!”
Bloomingdale/FishHawk
April 2022, Vol 21, Iss 4 41-50
AAFMAA Wealth Management & Trust For The Military Community Anthony Nemanic, relationship manager with AAFMAA Wealth Management & Trust, is now serving the Tampa area. The business offers investment management, financial planning and trust services exclusively for the military community. It is a nonprofit organization and over 50 percent of its staff have either worn the uniform or is a military spouse. As such, it confidently says that it knows what is important to military families, and its nonprofit status holds it accountable to ensure it provides the best solutions for military needs. More information can be found on its website at www. aafmaa.com/wealthmanagement, on Facebook @AnthonyNemanicAAFMAA or by calling 813-538-2634. The Lexwerx Law Firm Provides Personalizes Attention The Lexwerx Law Firm was created to provide the personalized attention, disciplined turnaround time, excellence in results and affordable, upfront fee packages that you just don’t get from larger groups. The Lexwerx Law Firm is a veteran-owned and operated, full-service law firm with a strong focus on wills, trusts, estates, guardianships and probates. The Lexwerx Law Firm is located at 1550 W. Cleveland St. in Tampa. For more in-
formation, visit its website at www.lexwerx. ticulous Jess Marketing is located at 10668 com or follow on Facebook @TheLexwerx- New East Bay Dr., Ste LawFirmLLC. 207 in Gibsonton. For more information, visit New Business Partnership At its website at www. Ohall Kemper Law meticulousjessmarLongtime colleagues at the Law keting.com, follow on Offices of Laurie Ohall have now Facebook @meticubecome partners, changing the lousjessllc or call 813name to Ohall Kemper Law. “We 822-9884. are not just lawyers, we are people that are truly passionate about serving and Flower Me Tampa Wants To Be Part Of caring for the elderly,” said Laurie Ohall, elder Your Next Big Celebration law attorney. Ohall Kemper Law specializes Flower Me Tampa Décor and Rentals crein elder law, estate planning, ates beautiful flower walls and much more special needs planning, pro- that will add an elegant ambiance to any spebate and guardianship. It is cial occasion. It specializes in creating stylish located at 1464 Oakfield Dr. flower walls and custom letters and number in Brandon. Additional infor- BloomBoards that will set your event apart mation can be found on its from others, adding that unique touch to website, www.ohalldinner parties, weddings, law.com, or by calling graduations, baby show813-438-8503. ers, quinceañeras, birthday celebrations, anniversaries, Meticulous Jess Marketing Is Efcorporate events and more. ficient And Effective Flower Me Tampa is loMeticulous Jess Marketing is owned cated at 1508 Windy Gap by Jessica Edwards and is the place to Pl. in Valrico. More inforgo for all your consulting, digital marketing, mation can be found on its website at www. graphic design and business photography flowermetampa.com and by calling 813-716needs. The agency is dedicated to helping 9811. bring prosperity to the community by helping local businesses grow. It helps to create com- Suncoast Credit Union Earns AARP prehensive, custom strategies to help your BankSafe Designation business reach its goals. It always considers Suncoast Credit Union is proud to anthe ‘big picture’ and how best to get optimum nounce that 100 percent of its branch and inresults in the long term. When you work with teractive teller machine staff have completed Meticulous Jess Marketing, it’s clear that it is the American Association of Retired Persons truly determined, efficient and effective. Me- (AARP) award-winning BankSafe training
program, which trains employees to identify and stop suspected financial exploitation and abuse, particularly among older adults. As a result, Suncoast Credit Union was one of only 115 financial institutions nationwide to be awarded the BankSafe seal for its efforts. A Virginia Tech study from October 2019 found that BankSafe-trained employees helped stop more than $110 million from being stolen from the accounts of older adults since the program’s inception. Dancing For A Difference Celebrates New Location Dancing for a Difference is celebrating moving to its new studio, located at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., #101 in Brandon. It is a nonprofit dance studio, and its mission is to make dance and the arts more available to all children in the Tampa area. It keeps classes as affordable as possible by utilizing family and community involvement. Dancing for a Difference is certified in Youth Protection Advocates in Dance, which means the studio is an environment that is safe for all children. It offers a variety of dance styles, including ballet, jazz, tap and lyrical, for all ages. To learn more about Dancing for a Difference, visit its website at www.dancing4donations.org or call 813-601-3009.
Page 26
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... Home Helpers Home Care Of Brandon Earns Best Of Home Care Provider Of Choice Award Home Helpers Home Care is pleased to announce that its East Tampa franchise has been named a Provider of Choice in the 2022 Best of Home Care Awards. Home Helpers Home Care offers the industry’s leading model for comprehensive care with its unique care program that provides the necessary components for living independently. This includes personal care and companionship, nutrition and meal planning, 24/7 emergency response and wellness calls to help ensure medications and hydration are maintained. “It’s an honor to be recognized. This award is based on feedback from our clients, it’s not something we applied for or sent in our own data to earn, so it’s a true reflection of the wonderful care our caregivers provide,” said Ursella Slusher, owner of Home Helpers Home Care of East Tampa. To find out more about Home Helpers Home Care, visit its website at www.homehelpershomecare.com/east-tampa. FURnandos Mobile Pet Grooming Makes Pet Care More Convenient In an attempt to help busy pet owners keep their pets looking and feeling great, FURnandos Mobile Pet Grooming offers a pet grooming service that comes to your doorstep. The new local pet grooming service offers a totally self-contained grooming salon on wheels in the convenience of your driveway. The unit is equipped with a generator, water heater, air condi-
tioner, fresh and gray water tanks and all the conveniences of a regular grooming salon. For more information about FURnandos Mobile Pet Grooming, visit its website at www. furnandos.com or call/ text 813-808-6035 to schedule an appointment for your pets. Start Fresh Counseling Center Opens New Office Start Fresh Counseling Center recently opened a new office in Brandon. It uses solution-focused therapy to help clients uncover their true potential by working together to better understand and resolve challenges in their lives while providing support and guidance toward a more meaningful life. While it can’t change difficult situations of the past, it can work to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Counseling services include individual, couples and family. Its new office is located at 135 Moon Ave. in Brandon. Additional information can be found on its website at www.startfreshcounselingcenter.com or by calling 813-489-4547. ACT Massage Of Lithia Now Offers Monthly Membership Package ACT Massage of Lithia, owned by local resident Jean Niccum, now offers monthly membership package deals from only $65 a month. There are a variety of massage services available. Visit its website at www.massagebook.com/biz/ACTMassageofLithia or call 813-356-9703 to find out more. ACT Massage of Lithia is located at 411 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 411 in Valrico.
Volume 21, Issue 4
FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL BACK AT BUSCH GARDENS Staff Report The Busch GarDiscover bounddens Food & Wine less combinations Festival is back of food and drink this month with selections with festive food and a Food & Wine drinks, headlinFestival sampler. ing concerts and Guests can embark the all-new roller on their culinary coaster, Iron Gwajourney with a zi. 10-sample lanyard This year’s event starting at only will feature more $65 or take it up than 20 delicious a notch and with dishes to pair with the fan-favorite wines, craft brews 15-sample lanyard and cocktails so for the best savpark guests can ings. Busch Garexplore a variety dens Pass Memof flavors while bers get the VIP enjoying a diverse treatment and can concert lineup, The Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival is back purchase an excluincluding 22 live through Friday, May 22 and is included with park sive Pass Member admission. musical acts for all lanyard, including tastes. The Food & Wine Festival runs 18 samples for the price of the 15-samFridays through Sundays from March 11 ple lanyard. to Sunday, May 22 and is included with The music lineup features chart-topadmission to the park. ping musicians with genres of all New this year, guests can indulge in tastes—from nostalgic bands to nationsavory bites like Hawaiian BBQ pork al headliners. Concert acts include Sean with coconut jasmine rice and Flamin’ Paul, 3 Doors Down, Kansas, Air Supply, Hot Cheetos elote street corn. Complete Gente De Zona plus many more. with signature cocktails like the Iron Concerts are included in park admisGwazi Fizz or frozen watermelon mar- sion. For the best seats in the house, regaritas and a selection of more than 40 served seating is strongly recommended wines and beers, this year’s menu offers and can be purchased online. See the an endless variety of flavors to sip and website for the complete lineup and latsavor. The Busch Gardens Food & Wine est updates. Festival includes nonalcoholic beverages To view the full menu, concert lineup such as the new Gwazi snow cones with and other event details, guests can head unique flavors like black raspberry and to https://buschgardens.com/tampa/ cotton candy. events/food-and-wine-festival/.
CAC1820162
Assisted Living
“Tessera Brandon...living your lifestyle.”
Memory Care
“Living the present...cherishing the past.”
Questions about memory loss? Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Groups -LIVE and ZOOM Call for Zoom link
• Active contemporary style living • Spacious apartments • All day dining from 7am to 7pm with a bountiful variety of choices • Pet friendly • Educational and social opportunities • Cable and Wi-Fi included • Live entertainment from Bach to Big Band • “Wine Down” Wednesdays
Assisted Living Facility #AL13150
Located in the heart of Brandon close to I75, Hwy 60 and Hwy 301
1320 Oakfield Dr., Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 607-6880
Call TODAY for special pricing!
TesseraBrandon.com
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 27
Page 28
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
CIGARS ON THE BOULEVARD LIGHTS UP APOLLO BEACH
By Amy Schechter
Whether you’re a different types of novice who has never people. By the end smoked a cigar or an exof the night, you’re pert who cannot wait to going to know get your hands on that everybody that’s hard-to-get stick, Cigars sitting at your on the Boulevard is the table. It’s a very perfect place for you. social, welcoming Apollo Beach’s preplace, and Charlie mier cigar and cocktail is going to do his lounge was born out best to make sure of friendship. Charyou have a reallie Buntin partnered Charlie Buntin, along with his brother, Michael, ly great time.” manage Cigars on the Boulevard. with Kevin and Carrie Cigars on the Elwell, whom he met Boulevard holds at CrossFit Apogee in trivia nights ev2016. Buntin is pasery Monday and sionate about cigars: recently started “I’m a retired army oflive jazz music ficer, and I love cigars every Friday, but and bourbon. Kevin and Carrie are dear there is ample seating for you to pull up a friends and mentors. I couldn’t have done chair and chat with new and old friends evthis without them. They saw my vision and ery night. helped me bring it through to fruition.” ToIn addition to the comfortable lounge, it gether, the team created a spacious, classy offers a VIP room for private events and atmosphere where guests can come to- meetings. Once you fall in love with Cigars gether. on the Boulevard, you can join a memberCigars on the Boulevard offers a wide ar- ship program with exclusive benefits. Plus, ray of cigars, signature cocktails, beer and its mobile events can bring the smoke to wine. Its custom humidor holds 130 differ- you. From poker nights to birthday parties ent types of cigars, and its experts can help to bachelor parties to neighborhood BBQs, you find a stick that fits your flavor profile. it can bring a variety of stogies to your Buntin is so excited about what they offer event so your guests can enjoy their smoke because it’s more than a business: “We sell on the spot. an experience. If you want a box of cigars, For more information including informayou can get you a box of cigars anywhere, tion on special events, call 813-296-1016, but when you come here, you’re building a visit www.facebook.com/CigarsOnTheBlvd relationship with us. It’s about asking how or find it online at cigarsotb.com. Cigars on you are doing and helping out when you’re the Boulevard is open daily from 3-11 p.m. having a bad day.” with morning hours available by appointCarrie went on to add, “I love how a cigar ment. Cigars on the Boulevard is located at can really bridge the gap between so many 1438 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach.
Jason Edwards DMD
Volume 21, Issue 4
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR HIGHLIGHTS MANY SUCCESSES IN STATE OF THE ORGANIZATION AND ANNUAL REPORT By Kathy L. Collins Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy the toll agency for Central Florida) to clear Millan has released the State of the Organi- tolls by allowing residents to pay them at zation and Annual Report for the agency. In the time of their registration renewal. Hillit, Milan looks back at her sborough County’s tax accomplishments during collector’s office was her first year in office and the first in the state celebrates many successof Florida to deploy es. Millan was elected tax remote driving tests collector in 2020. She reduring the pandemic. placed Doug Belden, who It also worked with the had served in that electFlorida Department ed position for 22 years. of Health to increase “I am excited to share branch customer cathese amazing successpacity once COVID rees that we have been strictions were eased. Hillsborough County Tax able to accomplish. The office used an Collector Nancy Millan Many of them were artificial intelligence has released the State of the campaign promises that called Sofie to answer Organization and Annual I made,” Millan said. “I Report. Since being elected to the post in over 70,000 questions am honored to work with 2020, she has been a good steward of tax from 40,000 users. such a phenomenal team funds, worked hard to protect employFinally, the tax colwho understands the im- ees and the public during a pandemic lector collected $2.4 and made good on many campaign portance of what we do billion in taxes. After promises. and look forward to what distributions to taxing we as a team will do in 2022,” added Milan. authorities, the tax collector’s office was Some of the highlights are impressive. Mi- able to provide $22 million back to Hillsborlan increased the starting pay for custom- ough County for vital services such as infraer service representatives from $15.16 per structure, waterways, libraries and other hour to $17.10 per hour. important services. The tax collector’s office enhanced the call Milan is looking forward to the rest of center with additional staffing resources 2022, and this year, the Hillsborough Counand implemented an ad hoc telework pro- ty Tax Collector’s Office will be utilizing adgram for employees impacted by COVID-19 ditional technology and services to provide to improve phone services, resulting in an better customer service. They will enhance increase of calls answered by 59 percent. It accessibility, increase capacity in branches also achieved a 94 percent vaccination rate and provide more services online. Milan said, within the organization. This helped to keep “We want to make it convenient and easy not only employees safe but customers as for all who need our services.” well. To watch the State of the Organization The Tax Collector’s Office partnered with video and review the Annual Report, please CFX (Central Florida Expressway Authority, visit www.hillstax.org/state-of-the-org.
Arina Doroshenko DDS, MD
Tom Backeris DMD
Comprehensive Oral Surgery
813-452-6380
SUMMER BREAK IS COMING! SCHEDULE TODAY!
2922 Lithia Pinecrest Road | Valrico, FL 33596
ValricoOralSurgery.com WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL • FULL ARCH • DENTAL IMPLANTS
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2022
LOCAL REALTOR KERIN CLARKIN SPREADS GOODWILL
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE 12TH ANNUAL CRAWFISH & CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Staff Report
Are you a seafood Since its inception, lover? Then mark your the Rotary Club of Fishcalendars for a delicious Hawk-Riverview has been event that also helps out involved in numerous serthe community. vice projects and, most The Rotary Club of recently, a global project in FishHawk-Riverview is Honduras providing water hosting its 12th annual filtration and latrine sysCrawfish Festival at Wintems for local communities throp Town Centre on in that country. Saturday, April 30 from “We have also provided 11 a.m.-4 p.m. funds for college scholar“We are looking forship programs for local high ward to making this the school students; Student largest Crawfish Festival Dictionary Distribution— yet to be put on by the over 8,500 dictionaries to Rotary Club of Fish- The 12th annual Crawfish Festival, elementary students since Hawk-Riverview,” said hosted by the Rotary Club of Fish- the program began; RotaGabriel Mbulo, the club’s Hawk-Riverview, will take place at ry’s Camp Florida, a camp Winthrop Town Centre on Saturpresident. for special needs children day, April 30 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. One hundred percent and adults in Brandon; of the proceeds from the event will help Group Study Exchange; Reading Is Fundathe Rotary Club Foundation, a 501(c)(3) mental, where more than 800 books have charity, to fund and support local, national been donated to Head Start students and and international charities and activities. members volunteer to read to the students Charities and activities include, but are monthly; Project C.U.R.E., a collection and not limited to, college scholarships for lo- distribution of medical supplies to developcal students, ECHO, Campo Family YMCA, ing nations; PolioPlus and The Rotary FounYMCA Camp Christina, the Sylvia Thomas dation,” said Mbulo. Center, the Brandon Outreach Clinic, RoRotary International is an organization tary’s Camp Florida, Head Start, PolioPlus of business and professional leaders, unitand more. ed worldwide, who provide humanitarian The event will feature a live perfor- service, encourage high ethical standards mance by Soul Circus Cowboys, a high-en- in all vocations and help build goodwill and ergy powerhouse Southern rock band from peace in the world. In more than 165 counTampa. There will be lots of fun, free games tries worldwide, approximately 1.4 million and various activities for children. Rotarians belong to over 33,000 Rotary “As usual, we will be offering a variety Clubs. of Cajun-style dishes, such as crawfish dinSponsorships and vendor spots are ners, étouffée, gumbo, jambalaya and ham- available for the event and all of the inforburgers and hot dogs,” said Mbulo. “Addi- mation, including food pricing and pickup tionally, we are anticipating having over 50 information, please visit our website at vendors in attendance.” www.luvcrawfish.com.
･ Internationally Trained Staff ･ Color Specialists ･ Straightening Systems ･ Complete Nail & Pedicure Services (Including Shellac) ･ Advanced Skin Care (Micro-derm, Peels, 4 Layer Facelift) ･ Body Waxing ･ Permanent Make-up ･ Farm House Fresh ･ Bath and Body Products • Professional Teeth Whitening
B
Page 29
By Michelle Caceres
hockey game Realtor Kerin Clarand a $1,000 kin said life is meant shopping to be enjoyed, and spree at The he’s trying to share Appliance that feeling with loPlug. cal residents. “I follow “I found success Fun Tampa on in the real estate social media industry but having and one day fun and enjoying life was also important Riverview resident Chelsea Lansky had fun bowling just decided for free and winning Lightning tickets and a shopping to attend one to me,” he said. spree at The Appliance Plug at a fun event hosted by of the events Two years ago, he Realtor Kerin Clarkin. because I started Fun Tampa love games as a way of showcasand the fact ing local food spots that it’s free and fun places to is a bonus,” unwind after a long she said. “I day. He also started had a great hosting events such time and as a scavenger hunt was shocked to find him at downwhen I won a town’s Riverwalk. prize.” Two winners each Lantzy also said it was a blast to attend received a $100 Bern’s gift certificate. “I was fortunate enough to make money the hockey game and used the shopping in real estate, and this is my way of giving spree to purchase a new, stainless-steel, back,” he said. “It’s also a way to recognize French-door refrigerator. Events have been scheduled into Sepour excellent local businesses.” Clarkin has brought the fun to River- tember. One event in March was a movie view and he’s getting help from others, in- night for Summerfield residents. Clarkin was quick to point out that these cluding Riverview Mortgage Owners Eros events aren’t for soliciting new real estate and Julie Dahl. Riverview resident Chelsea Lantzy at- business. “I’m a successful realtor thanks tended an event at The Alley at South- to a supportive community and this is my shore, hosted by Clarkin and Cardinal Roof- way of giving back to it,” he said. “This is ing. She and a friend bowled for free and my hobby.” For information about Clarkin or future competed in a backwards bowling contest. At the end of eight rounds, she had events in Riverview, visit www.thekerin. knocked down the most pins, winning the com. For more information about Fun grand prize of two tickets to a Lightning Tampa events, visit www.funtampa.com.
(813) 643-7173 • • • • • •
Boulevard 813.571.5800
Plumbing Repairs Re-pipes Drain stoppages Home Additions Remodels Fixtures & Accessories
• • • • •
Backflow Device Testing Water Softener Installation Water Heater Installation New Construction (Residential) New Construction (Commercial)
Find out more at our website:
Gift Cards Available
WWW.COGGINSPLUMBING.COM
210 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon
Proudly serving the Tampa Bay area for over 30 years.
SALON
www.BoulevardSalon.biz
Experience the Difference!
#MM27421 / #MA29471
24 Hour Emergency Service
10%
$50
$200
YOUR NEXT SERVICE CALL
NEW WATER HEATER PURCHASE & INSTALLATION
RESIDENTIAL REPIPES
Expires 4/30/2022
Expires 4/30/2022
Expires 4/30/2022
OFF
OFF
OFF
Page 30
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
THE REGENT & SATIN & LACE HOST SECOND WEDDING DRESS GIVEAWAY FOR EDUCATORS By Lily Belcher The Regent in Rivhelp The Regent with erview has announced its second event. its second annual Nominations were Wedding Dress Givesubmitted through away, which will give The Regent’s website wedding dresses to throughout February selected teachers and and brides will be sesoon-to-be-brides. lected and fitted for “Educators just betheir gown in April. came the next group of “I think the biggest people who really have part of it is just makWedding Dress Giveaway winner had to modify how Jenna Rose received a dress from The ing sure enough people they do things [due to know about it … and Regent this year the coronavirus] … so we give as many dresswe figured it would es as we can away,” be a great appreciasaid Keil. “I hope that tion for them as well,” it encourages others to explained The Regent give back and to do litCEO Shannon Keil. tle unexpected things.” The Regent has colThe event will conlected around 50 doclude in May with a nated wedding dresses brunch for the brides, from local bridal shops who will pick their like Satin & Lace Briddresses. al Boutique in River“I love it when the view and Flora’s Bridal girl comes in for the in Brandon and prefitting and she puts served dresses from on the dress and it fits former brides in the her like a glove and area. These donated her face lights up,” exdresses will be given plained Keil. “There’s Bride Jenna Rose, standing with her to teachers who were just a look on her face dad and Shannon Keil, was the first wedding dress recipient. nominated by their when she puts ‘the one’ peers and selected by a team outside of on, and that moment is worth everyThe Regent. thing.” “We have had a lot of donations from The Regent is still accepting dress dopeople dropping them off, so it has be- nations. To donate, call The Regent at come a community thing for people to 571-2494 or drop off a dress between feel like they’re connected to it,” said 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday through FriKeil. day. For more information on the event, Keil also mentioned that some of last visit The Regent’s Facebook page or visit year’s health care workers who received its website at www.experiencetheredresses have reached out and offered to gent.com/wedding-dress-giveaway.
Volume 21, Issue 4
BAYCARE EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH FEEDING TAMPA BAY, OPENS HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER
Staff Report
Tucked inside the ical intervention can massive industrial compensate for what warehouse home of we need first: good Feeding Tampa Bay, and dependable acguests, staff and volcess to food.” unteers now have BayCare began their own dedicated focusing much of its BayCare Health Educommunity benefit cation Center. effort toward food BayCare has teamed up with Feeding Tampa Bay The first of its kind, insecurity after the to open a dedicated BayCare Health Education the facility reflects 2019 Community Center in Feeding Tampa Bay’s warehouse. BayCare’s commitHealth Needs Asment to addressing the sessment found great community’s health honeed across the four listically. The center will counties it serves: Hillserve as a resource for sborough, Pinellas, Polk visitors to Feeding Tampa and Pasco. That focus Bay to live healthier lives, came into even sharper including offering health relief with the onset of education materials, a the COVID-19 pandemic Higi Station for self-monitoring general when Feeding Tampa Bay and others serhealth and a private area for personal con- vice agencies reported significant spikes in sultations. BayCare also will offer health and demand for food. wellness events targeted to those served in Food insecurity is now BayCare’s primary this unique location. focus for community outreach, from imme“We are thrilled to have BayCare’s part- diate investment in food for those in need to nership and presence here in the food bank,” adopting systemic changes that should help said Thomas Mantz, president and CEO of all patients get their nutritional needs met. Feeding Tampa Bay. “This new facility is an Feeding Tampa Bay, with a footprint that investment in our community’s long-term matches BayCare’s service area, is a natural health, starting with nutrition, which is partner in this work. essential for overall wellness. We all know “Data has really driven our plans, and our food equals health, and this effort is a huge research clearly indicates a tremendous step forward for our community.” amount of food insecurity throughout our BayCare CEO Tommy Inzina agrees, region,” said Keri Eisenbeis, BayCare’s vice noting at the ribbon-cutting event that no president of government and community amount of medication can compensate for relations. “BayCare’s clinical background hunger or poor nutrition. paired with Feeding Tampa Bay’s food ex“Any health care professional will tell you pertise creates a unique opportunity to realthat food is the first medicine,” Inzina said. ly improve the community’s health.” “Without good nutrition, maintaining one’s Visit www.baycare.org and https://feedhealth is significantly harder, and no med- ingtampabay.org/.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2022
BLOOMINGDALE WRESTLING ENDS SEASON WITH ONE OF THEIR WRESTLERS PLACING FIFTH AT STATES By Lily Belcher
Nate Overman (second from the left) placed fifth in the state tournament in the first week of March.
Coach Dennis Kitko has led the Bloomingdale High School wrestling team to the playoffs this season, finishing 20-5 overall in the regular season. “I love that the small group I have left. All bought into the system of working hard and dedicating themselves to the sport,” said Kitko. This season, Kitko coached two of district champions that he said wrestled all summer to prepare, which paid off in the postseason when they beat two great wrestlers to earn the titles. The district champions, Jose Milord and Nate Overman, placed third and second, respectively, in the county championships. Both Milord and Overman advanced to the state championship the first week of March. Overman placed fifth and Milord qualified and won one of his matches as well. “Others that performed well at counties were Aiden Smallwood, J.R. Singer, Jeremiah Sawicksy and Thomas Owen. We did qualify eight wrestlers at districts to the regional tournament, which (Take Out Only)
YBOR Room
Now OPEN!
27 Years in Brandon!
is great,” said Kitko. Kitko has been a wrestling coach for 26 years now and has coached the Bloomingdale Bulls for five of those. Last year, he was awarded Joel Medgebow Wrestling Coach of the Year and has coached three state champions throughout his career. The coach began wrestling when he was 8 years old and wrestled for Brandon High School and Cornell
University. “I’ve been coaching 26 years and can’t imagine a better way to help young people achieve success than wrestling,” explained Kitko. “It takes discipline, hard work and a dedication that you won’t find in many other sports.” Bloomingdale’s wrestling team focused more on individual wrestling this year rather than team wrestling. Kitko said that his goal is to make each of his wrestlers a better person through teaching them good values in their training and practice. “I love the sport of wrestling; however, it is more important that I teach great values that I’ve learned from Christ such as love, respect, kindness and humility to every one of my wrestlers. Making great wrestlers is good but helping to develop great human beings is true fulfillment,” said Kitko. For more information on Bloomingdale Senior High School athletics, please visit hillsboroughschools.org/bloomingdale.
Page 31
BLOOMINGDALE GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM WINS FIRST DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP SINCE 1995
By Nick Nahas
The Bloomingdale the Bloomingdale gym. High School girls bas“Her showing that ketball team claimed toughness and playing their first district through this pretty sechampionship since vere injury inspired me, 1995. The contest was and I know it inspired close for two and a half her teammates,” said quarters, but the Lady Bower. “That was the Bulls used their depth spark I think we needto pull away late in the ed Friday night to get Photo courtesy of Bloomingdale Athletic Director us going.” third quarter, convincSara Bouge ingly beating Braden The Lady Bulls not The Bloomingdale High School girls basketRiver 57-34. The Bulls only won District 6Aball team claimed their first district champiwere led by junior 11, but they also did it onship since 1995. guard Aissatou Diallo, in dominant fashion, who connected on six three-pointers. winning 20-plus games for the first time in “Winning districts this year meant every- 15 years, and the first time during Bower’s 11thing to me,” said junior shooting guard Melo- year tenure, with an impressive 23-5 overall dy Womack. “It’s something that I’ve always record. wanted ever since I came to Bloomingdale. “It’s always a goal to win a district title,” Knowing that it hasn’t happened in 25 years, said Bower. “We expect to win, and hopefully and knowing how bad Coach Bower wanted that just snowballs and creates that culture to win and that he has never had a district where kids are continuing to work hard and championship before, made us want it even understand that what got this for us was all more.” the hard work,” said Bower. There was a lot of doubt that Womack The girls knew how long it had been since would play again this season, let alone be the last district championship, and they espeable to play in the championship game, after cially wanted to win for their coach. taking an elbow to the face and sustaining a In February, the Lady Bulls won their substantial mouth injury in the Western Con- first-ever regional championship after beatference title game against Plant one week ing Land O’ Lakes 45-37, achieving their best prior. Head Coach Joel Bower said that this season in school history. They came up a little was a turning point in their season because bit short in the state semifinal game vs Wekiit brought the team together even more va. through adversity. He used the W4M (Win “This is such an amazing sisterhood. We are for Mel) hashtag on the official team Twitter like a family and have such a strong bond that page as motivation to win for her. The team’s nobody can break,” said Womack. “I think we spark plug and leading rebounder missed the have come so far because of the chemistry, semifinals but was able to help her team- love and support that we have for each other. mates accomplish something that hadn’t There’s not another team I would want to be been done since any of them were born— on. We’re making history, and that’s somehang a championship banner on the wall of thing that I’ll never forget.”
Page 32
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
GET THE DIRT: THE LAZY GARDENER
BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT A few years ago, I ing and save seeds. wrote an article about Use a timer system to being a lazy gardener. perform 15 minutes To this day and, I beof a dreaded gardenlieve, for the remainder ing activity, then stop of my gardening days, when the timer goes I will remain one. You, off. You’ll be surprised too, can have a beautiwhat you can accomful garden while mainplish. taining a lazy gardener Time Saver: Wear lifestyle. gloves. This saves time Right plant/right cleaning your hands place, the first of the and fingernails. nine Florida Friendly Maximize Your Landscaping™ princiLaziness: Use your ples, includes knowlfriends wisely. Start edge of your site a friends’ gardening conditions. Other comgroup. Learn to love ponents are hydrozonvolunteer plants (those ing, consideration of that come up on their plant size and keeping own) and permanentit simple. ly borrow plants from Right Plant/Right your friends and neighPlace: Analyze sun, bors; asking first is shade, water requirealways a wise move. ments and soil compoDivide and relocate sition. perennials: no money Lazy Watering: Hyspent, save on gasoline drozone—group plants and no need to shop. by water needs, use Lazy Maintenance microirrigation and Using low-maintenance plants is one thing Plants: Slow growLynn Barber recommends for lazy harvest rainwater from ers need less pruning. gardeners. roof structures for orWide spreaders mean namental plants, not fewer plants required. edibles. Drought-tolerant plants require less waterSize: Determine garden dimensions, ing. Pest and disease-resistant plants need mature plant size and the least number of less lazy pest management. plants needed to fill space. Lazy and smart Low Demands and High Returns: Ingardeners do not plant for instant gratifica- cludes dracaena, plumbago, firecracker tion but for mature plant size, saving time, bush, African and walking iris, thryallis, work and money. pentas, firebush, croton, and salvia. These Keep It Simple: If you are too lazy to are just a few. For more ideas, go to UF FFL water during dry spells, plant drought-re- and view a copy of The Florida-Friendly sistant bloomers or wait until the rainy Landscaping™ Guide to Plant Selection and season to plant. If you are too lazy to rake Landscape Design. Page 31 is the key to the leaves or pine needles when they fall, create information provided. self-mulching landscape beds. If you are too Look for my suggestions on limitations to lazy to plant annual flowers, plant perenni- lazy gardening in an upcoming addition. To als. view and register for upcoming workshops, Sweat Savers: Repeat your successes go to the ‘UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough and plant reseeders. Remove dead flowers County’ calendar of events. from a plant to encourage further bloom-
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
Volume 21, Issue 4
CENTER PLACE WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE BOARD PRESIDENT By Libby Hopkins Center Place Fine Arts voted in as Center & Civic Association is Place’s new executive excited to announce it board president. “I has a new board presilove the opportunident, Riverview resident ties that Center Place Bernadette Pello. She is offers not only to stualso the president and dents but adults as co-founder of Livingwell,” Pello said. “It stone Academy as well is very important to as the marketing manengage our diverse ager for KNOW Women members in the arts, Tampa Bay. whether it is our “I am originally from young students and upstate New York,” Peladults, our veterans lo said. “I have been in or our vulnerable popFlorida, specifically the ulations. We partner Brandon area, for 28 Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association with other nonprofits years. I have 35 years of is excited to announce it has a new board in the community to president, Bernadette Pello. professional experience, provide quality pro15 in corporate and 20 grams. I love watchyears as the co-owner ing the collaboration with my husband, Chris, with other nonprofits for almost 20 years. Chris and I founded and and organizations.” own Livingstone Schools.” Ryan is still an active board member, as The couple started Livingstone Academy is his brother, Tom Odiorne, who is Center with 30 students and four staff members. Place’s treasurer. “We now have 450 students, four locations Pello has many goals for Center Place and 85 employees,” Pello said. “We are during her term. “Some of my goals obvistarting up our fifth location next school ously need to continue our efforts to keep year. It will be a trade academy focusing Center Place strong financially,” Pello said. on preapprenticeship programs for anyone “Without that, we cannot provide the prowith a high school diploma or GED. grams needed in the community. I would The couple also owns a food truck as a love to see our monthly events grow, such family with their son, Michael, called Pasta as Artist Night. I want to see Center Place Monsta. “I served as the chairman of the known for our quality art and community board for the Brandon Chamber of Com- programs and our beautiful event space. We merce in 2020 and I currently chair GEAC,” have been a part of the Brandon community Pello said. for 49 years, and thanks to our committed Pello has been a part of Center Place’s board and other community members, we board for more than a year. When the cur- are here to stay.” rent executive board president, Ryan OdiFor more information, visit www.centerorne, stepped down, Pello was unanimously placebrandon.com or call 813-685-8888.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
April 2022
Page 33
IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR AT REED & REED By Michelle Caceres
Spring is upon us now and the water temps are up. The seagrasses in the areas are flushing out after their dormancy for the winter. This will bring back the baitfish and all the grass flats fish we like to target, such as snapper, Spanish mackerel and trout. The scaled sardine, or as we like to call them, greenies, will set up on the grass flats throughout the area. This makes them a lot more feasible to catch Ayden with a nice backwater snook. rather than on the towers. Chum in about 3 to 4 ft. of water and you will see them begin to amass for you to net in short fashion. These work better than shrimp because they are heartier and you won’t have to bait up as often, not to mention the target species love to chomp on these little protein morsels. A 1/4 in. mesh net will be best and will keep you from gilling them badly in the net as some smaller baits will arrive with the mature John Sullivan with a nice snook. baits. I like to use a 1/0 circle hook for the greenies with 20-25 lb. text leader. As the water warms more, we will see the algal bloom back some, making the water a little cloudier. That’s when I shift to 25 lb. leader. Hook the greenie in the nose or under the pectoral fin (think armpit). This will keep the bait alive longer and allow it to swim more natural. Hunter Murphy with a great shallow Some use bobbers, but I water trout.
prefer freeline. Place the bobber about 3 ft. above the hook. Artificial baits like the soft plastic swim baits work great for the trout, and they don’t get gut hooked most of the time. Trout have a significantly reduced survival from catching because unlike most other target species, they ingest the bait immediately. Artificial baits have a much better success rate when catch and release is desired. They are also better for scouting for them since it is more of an active method rather than passive (meaning taking the bait to the fish rather than waiting on the fish to find the bait). For trout, scout the grass flats with artificial baits until you find a few bites. These fish tend to school very well and once they are located, catching 10 fish in 10 casts is not uncommon. Be wary of the transient cobia cruising the flats and reefs this time of year as they start migrating around the bay with the warming water. Spanish mackerel will be chasing the schools of threadfins and glass minnows as they move back into the bay. Watch the bait getting worked and cast into the bait ball. You may want a small segment of light steel leader or 40 lb. leader to prevent some inevitable cutoffs.
10% OFF
entire purchase
Sunflower Cafe 3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico 813-65-SUSHI
Only valid with regular menu. With this coupon. Must present before submitting payment. Before tax. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers Offer expires 4/30/2022
3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Valrico (Located in the SteinMart Plaza)
813-65-SUSHI
Mon - Fri 11:30-2:30 & 5-9 | Sat 12-9 Sundays 12-8:30 (Serving lunch until 3 p.m.)
they were numbers, quickly moving from one client to the next,” said Ryan. “He wanted a more compassionate and connected approach to his clients.” That approach, he said, more resembles grocery giant Publix’s concept of customer Hiring Brandon personal injury attorneys Jacquelin, Ryan & Paul Reed of service. “We treat Reed & Reed is like having an attorney in the family. our clients like we Attorneys are always careful when chooswould treat family ing a law partner, and for good reason. The or friends if they needed legal help,” he said. reality is that sometimes attorneys spend That means when clients call, they speak far more time with their law partners than to an attorney who assists them from signwith family members, but that’s not so with up to verdict, and even to appeal if necesfather/son duo Paul and Ryan Reed, Esquires. sary. The pair formulated the plan to create “Our clients sometimes feel spoiled with Reed & Reed, a personal injury law firm, this type of treatment,” said Ryan. during Ryan’s freshman year in college. SevIn addition to treating clients like famien years later, Reed & Reed opened its doors ly, it also helps that Reed & Reed produces in October 2013. Ryan’s wife, Jacquelin Reed, results. It has tried cases in more than 12 herself an attorney, also joined the firm. counties throughout Florida; argued before “We fight side by side, day after day, year the Second, Third and Fourth District Courts after year for our clients,” Ryan said. of Appeal; and secured several verdicts of Located at 101 E. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon more than $1 million for clients. at the corner of John Moore and Lumsden Reed & Reed offers a free initial consultaRds., the attorneys at Reed & Reed have de- tion, and if it represents a client, they don’t cades of experience helping individuals and have to pay unless and until they obtain a families recover compensation for all types verdict or settlement. “You don’t want an atof personal injury accidents suffered at the torney that dabbles in personal injury law,” hands of negligent individuals, doctors, store said Ryan, “you want one that specializes in owners and many others. it.” Brandon native Paul Reed, who has arReed & Reed’s office hours are Monday to gued cases in trial and appellate courts Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; however, it can arthroughout Florida and the United States range meetings after-hours or on weekends for the last 26 years, worked for a large ‘big- when necessary. box’ firm before venturing out on his own For more information about Reed & Reed and learning a few things along the way. or to schedule a consultation, visit www. “My dad didn’t want to treat clients like needreed.com or call 813-438-5960.
Page 34
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
RENEWED INTEGRATIVE COUNSELING HELPS THROUGH MENTAL HEALTH CARE By Kate Quesada Are you looking for a Levy. “We are excited Christian-based counselabout opening our ing service to help with a doors in the Rivervariety of mental health view community and services? Then look no helping to bringing further than Renewed much-needed quality Integrative Counseling in services to those in Riverview. need.” Owned by Jeannette The team of highAlcantara and Amanda ly qualified licensed Levy, the business offers counselors—includmental health counseling ing licensed menfor individuals and coutal health counselples, family counseling, ors, licensed social psychological testing workers, licensed services, small group marriage and famcounseling and more Jeannette Alcantara and Amanda Levy ily therapists and recently opened Renewed Integrative for children, teens and licensed registered Counseling in Riverview. adults. state interns—and “Renewed is a place professional life where people are invited into coaches work with each a journey of healing from client to create a personalhurtful life experiences; a ized care plan to meet their place where people learn to specific needs with the end develop effective coping skills goal of helping each perfor managing emotions and son build a better quality of stresses of life; a place where life. The team’s core beliefs people grow and foster are grounded in prioritizing healthy relationships; a place God, family and self-care bewhere purpose is drawn out fore service to ensure they and people begin to live out that purpose are at their best emotionally and spirituin fullness,” said Alcantara and Levy. ally within their personal lives so that they The Christian-based practice imple- can provide the highest quality of care for ments a holistic and integrative approach their clients. to mental health care that fosters emoRenewed Integrative Counseling is lotional, physical and spiritual health, lead- cated 11912 Balm Riverview Rd. in Rivering to effective long-term wellness. view and can be reached at 813-444-7116. “Our compassion team is made up of To learn more, visit www.renewedic.com a group of amazingly talented licensed or check the business out on Facebook at professionals who build safe and trust- www.facebook.com/WelcometoRenewed. ing relationships with clients and meet Renewed in open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m.them where they are,” said Alcantara and 8 p.m., and Saturdays by appointment.
Volume 21, Issue 4
HILLSBOROUGH EDUCATION PROGRAM SEEKS APPLICANTS AND MENTORS By Michelle Caceres Riverview High gradmust be in the seventh uate Kyah Stuckey or eighth grade, be enwasn’t thinking about rolled in a Hillsborough how she was going to County Public School, pay for college when meet financial requireshe was in middle ments (applicants school, but she’s gratemust submit copies of ful it was on her mom’s a 1040 tax return and mind. social security card) “She had to take out and have a minimum student loans to pay unweighted GPA of for college and didn’t 2.5. After preliminary want that for me,” said application screenings, Stuckey. the highest scoring Her mom encourstudents will be seaged her to apply Riverview graduate Kyah Stuckey earned a lected for an interview for Hillsborough Ed- two-year college scholarship by participat- with Hillsborough Education Foundation’s ucation Foundation. ing in Hillsborough Education FoundaTake Stock in Children Students who are contion’s Take Stock in Children mentoring program. mentoring program, sidered to be promising in which students are paired with a men- candidates for the program will be invited to tor and role model who provides emotional become Take Stock in Children scholars and support, fosters confidence and helps them will be paired with a caring volunteer menreach their academic goals. Students that tor and guidance from a HEF college success complete the program earn a Florida Pre- coach throughout their high school years. paid Scholarship on the condition that they Scholars take a pledge of commitment to meet the program’s standards. stay in school, maintain good grades and Stuckey excelled in the program, graduat- make positive life choices throughout their ing in 2021 with a two-year college scholar- high school years. ship. She’s currently attending Hillsborough Take Stock in Children Program Director Community College and hopes to one day Joanne Sandoval said HEF is also accepting work in the medical profession. applications for mentors. “The program and my mentor, Norma, “Mentors meet with students at least really helped me prepare for life after high twice a month, either in person or virtually, school,” she said. Stuckey is already applying to provide guidance, support and hope for a for more scholarships to pay for the last two brighter future,” she said. years of college. To apply for the Take Stock in Children The application period for the 2022 pro- mentoring program, visit www.educationgram opens Monday, March 7 and runs foundation.com/tsic-scholarships. To learn through Monday, May 9. To apply for Hills- more about becoming a mentor, visit www. borough Education Foundation’s Take Stock educationfoundation.com/mentor-a-student in Children mentoring program, students or call 813-574-0271.
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 35
Page 36
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
LIFELIKE SCULPTURES GRACE THE STREETS OF DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY
You can take a stroll about downtown Plant City, and as you do, you will come across delightful, lifelike sculptures, such as Ambassador of the Streets at the east end of McCall Park and Latte? in Unity Park on Collins St. The sculptures were brought to Plant City courtesy of the Arts Council of Plant City.
The Arts Council of Plant City has once again brought delightful life-size sculptures to Plant City’s historic downtown. The sculptures were created by artist J. Seward Johnson. The sculptures are displayed throughout the downtown area. Johnson creates trompe l’oeil painted bronze statues which are castings of live people depicting them engaged in everyday tasks. There are eight statues on display. Bake Sale is located at on Palmer St. at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum. Body Music is located at the intersection of Palmer St. and E. Reynolds St. Ambassador of the Streets is located on the east end of McCall Park. Keep Life in Balance is located in McCall Park on Collins St. Relish, Too? is located at Roots Cellar on Collins St. Latte? is located in Unity Park on Collins St. Finally, Captured is located at Village Green Park on Evers St. Taking a stroll through downtown locating the statues is a fun way to spend some time outside and get to see both the delightful downtown and the beautifully created statues. They are so lifelike that
you may need to take a double take to make sure you are looking at a statue and not a live person. Marsha Passmore, president of the Arts Council of Plant City, said, “The eight sculptures were handpicked. They are special because this set has never been displayed before in Plant City.” Passmore added, “This is the eighth year that the Arts Council of Plant City has hosted the Seward Johnson sculptures as an open-air outside exhibit.” In addition to bringing the Johnson sculptures to Plant City, the Arts Council of Plant City offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors, sponsors the PTSA Reflections Art Exhibit and supports local nonprofits. The mission of the Arts Council of Plant City is to bring arts to the Plant City community, promote education in the arts and develop artists and arts programs. The Arts Council of Plant City is funded by membership fees and fundraisers, such as its annual Chili Fest. For information, visit www.plantcityarts.com.
Volume 21, Issue 4
LOCAL STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN FINE ARTS FESTIVAL Select students in Hillsborough County Public Schools had an opportunity to showcase their artwork recently. Students in fourth and fifth grade from area schools, including Bevis Elementary, participated in the Fine Arts Festival held at FishHawk Creek Elementary School on March 5. One local student whose artwork was on exhibit was Ryan Kittleson, a fourth grade student at Bevis Elementary School. Ryan is in Mrs. Dasta’s homeroom. Mrs. Fernandez Ryan Kittleson, a fourth grade student at Bevis Elementary School in Lithia, recently participated in the Fine Arts Festival at is Ryan’s art teacher. FishHawk Creek Elementary. Ryan is shown here with his art Ryan created an image teacher and the principal at Bevis Elementary School. of his hand using a methplaying and celebrating student artwork od known as Zentangle design. He used drawing paper, Sharpie is fundamental to art education and opmarkers and special art markers. Ryan erates both virtual art shows as well as said of the inspiration for his design, “I on-site events. Artome frames a work of art for every like a lot of different patterns and green student in a school. It also provides galis one of my favorite colors. I added the lery displays so children, parents and adspace border because I thought it looked ministrators can view and share their artcool.” work in an organized way. Its experienced Ryan added, “I like art because it is fun, and you get to draw a bunch of neat art show professionals set up and break down the on-site shows and make sure things.” Ryan’s mom, Karen Kittleson, said, “The everyone’s experience is extraordinary. Parents were able view the artwork Fine Arts Festival was great. There were online and make purchases. Funds raised some amazing pieces of art on display. from the purchase of the artwork went This was the first time Ryan participated toward the Hillsborough County Arts Proin the event.” gram. In addition to the art, the attendees enKaren noted that art in schools has joyed a delightful music program. value, as does displaying their art in pubThe students’ works that were selectlic. She said, “It offers creative students ed were featured in the festival and onan outlet to show their successes to the line through a service known as Artome. community. It is absolutely incredible to It is the premier organizer of full-service see what these kids are capable of.” school art shows. It believes that disResidential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists License #L20000250797
Expires 4/30/2022
WE TAKE THE PAIN OUT OF PAINTING, AND PUT THE WO BACK IN WONDERFUL!
(813) 723-9124 or (813) 670-8565 www.tandjpaintingfl.com
GROWING COMPANY looking for a great PAINTER to Join Our Team!
START TODAY!!
665 S. Kings Avenue, Brandon, FL
813-436-0708 | NEWVITALITYCENTERS.COM Hours: Mon-Thurs 9-5 Friday 9-12
• PRP Skin Rejuvenation • Medical Weight Loss • Hormone Replacement Therapy • MoreNova Linear Wave for Erectile Dysfunction
• PRP Hair Restoration • PRP Injections for Pain • IV Nutrient Therapy • And so much more!
Sorry guys, we no longer do beard trims or children under 3.
25 $ 20 $ 23 $
Men’s Haircut (ages 13+)
n Walk I Only for Active Military, Fire Dept., Kids’ (ages 3-12)
& Law Enforcement
$5
OFF
Expires 6-30-22
Tue - Fri 9 am - 6 pm | Sat 9 am - 5 pm | Sun - Mon CLOSED 16311 FishHawk Blvd, Lithia, FL 33547 | 813-661-7024 Visit our website for the most up-to-date hours & information.
www.justcutsforguys.com
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BLUE WAVE SWIMMER MEETS OLYMPIC HEROES, COMPETES IN SOUTHERN ZONE SPEEDO SECTIONALS By Nick Nahas Blue Wave swimmer Valentine’s Day goody Michaela Walker recently bags for the Migrant qualified to compete at Education Program. the Southern Zone SpeeThe bags were for the do Sectionals in Orlando, less fortunate kids of where she got to swim in migrant workers in the same pool with Olymneed. pic Gold medalists, Caeleb The swimmer Dressel, Katie Ledecky, didn’t do as well as Natalie Hinds and Michael she wanted at the Andrew. Walker swam event, but meeting the 50m and the 100m her role models has breaststroke and also got changed her perspecto watch these Olympic tive. legends race, which left a “I didn’t do as well great impression on her. as I wanted to, but Photo courtesy of Agnese Walker “I was starstruck when Michaela Walker met Caeleb Dressel, the my coach told me I saw them in person,” that this meet is just fastest swimmer in the world. said Walker. “I especially was excited to see an experience and the start of a new chapKatie Ledecky and Caeleb Dressel because ter,” said Walker. “He told me to just watch I’ve looked up to them since I started swim- them, as they are some of best swimmers in ming at age 8. It was very fun to watch Ka- the world, and just take in everything. My tie Ledecky beat her Olympic times. When favorite part of that weekend would have she touched the wall, the atmosphere on- to be getting the opportunity to swim in deck was crazy as everyone was cheering. the same lane as Katie Ledecky and Caeleb Watching Caeleb Dressel was also amazing, Dressel. I was just casually warming up and knowing that he’s the fastest in the world. when I got to the wall and looked up, there Actually meeting all the Olympians and hav- was Katie Ledecky right in front of me. I was ing a conversation with them was incredi- shocked that I was in the same lane as the ble, and I was at a loss for words. Reflecting fastest person in the world. This was the back on it makes me realize that they are moment that made me realize that although just people, proving that anything is possi- Ledecky has literally won the Olympics sevble.” en times and has swum all over the world, Walker has competed as a swimmer since she is just a person.” she was 8 for the Blue Wave at High 5, Inc. Walker will compete at the senior chamThe sophomore also swims for Strawber- pionships, which is a state-level meet for ry Crest High School, where she partici- swimmers aged 15-18 who qualify. She pates in the IB program. Walker is a great hopes to continue to improve and make student-athlete with a 5.0 GPA, balancing more sectional cuts and swim in more school and swim six days per week. events at sectionals. She also wants to make The 16-year-old is also active in her com- a Futures cut and has aspirations of swimmunity as a volunteer. She recently made ming in college.
Page 37
RANDALL BOYS AND GIRLS SOCCER TEAMS MAKE IT TO CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES
By Nick Nahas
The Randall Mida few goals as well. dle School boys and The defense was led girls soccer teams by Nick Levine, Dylan had seasons for Quesada, Braden the record books, Matteis and Cody as both reached Bronner. The goalthe championship keeper, Mason Roy, game in the same had shoutouts in sevyear for the first eral games and only time ever. allowed seven goals Photos courtesy of Debbie Barker in 10 total games. “My favorite part The Randall boys soccer team made it to the of the season was The boys were led finals for the first time since 2011. beating Barrington by third-year Head in our fifth game of Coach Leo Mallon. the season, which Mallon, who teaches clinched our playSpanish at Newsome off spot,” said left High School, also wing Emmie Poircoached the girls ier. “Barrington’s team until Anthosoccer team has ny Rivera took over always been our head coaching duties rival, and I scored this season to help The girls finished the season with a 7-1 overall two goals on carry the load. record, scoring 38 goals while only allowing them, which led us “We had an inthree in eight total games. to beating them for credible team with the third year in a row. It was a hard-fought very talented young boys from sixth grade game, and celebrating with my team after all the way to eighth grade,” said Mallon. the win is something I’ll never forget.” The girls finished the season with a 7-1 Right back Dylan Quesada will remember overall record. They not only won games, his time playing for Randall fondly and will but they also dominated their opponents in take the momentum with him as he tries the process, scoring 38 goals while only alout for the Newsome High School soccer lowing three in eight total games. team next season. Rivera said that his team had many tal“I enjoyed being on the team that broke ented players and they worked well togeththe Randall playoff drought,” said Quesada. er to accomplish their goals. Key players in“Being here this year and making playoffs clude eighth graders Emmie Poirier, Avery was an amazing send-off for my last year. I West, McKenna Hunt, Riley Throneburg and loved playing for this team, and I wish the Kinsley Hiscock, and seventh graders Siena best to the Randall team next year.” Bovelsky, Erin McMenemy, Ella Baroni and The Hawks offense was led by Luca Sav- Gabriella Va added depth to the team. Sixth ino, Brayden Howard and Matias Rangel. graders Gianna Savino, Erin McTigue and All three players accounted for most of the Rebecca Rolland have a bright future with goals this season. Clark Furney, Brodan Tif- the Lady Hawks. Lilly Dione led the team as fany, Landon Mallon and Colton Oifer had the top goalkeeper.
Carepartners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved one. Gain this knowledge at our NEW hybrid support groups being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon.
Hybrid Dementia and Alzheimer’s Support Groups Fourth Tuesday of Every Month at 6:30 pm Meeting in person and via Zoom!!! Zoom Meeting Number 897 6781 0479 Password: evening
Assisted Living Facility #AL 13150
Fourth Wednesday of Every Month at 2:00 pm Meeting in person and via Zoom!!! ZOOM Meeting Number 869 4044 7508 Password: support
Come a little early for refreshments! 1320 Oakfield Dr. Brandon, FL 33511 | 813-607-6880
Page 38
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 4
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAWN BLACKBURN.
NEWSOME LACROSSE COACH WINS NATIONAL POSITIVE COACHING ALLIANCE AWARD Newsome Lacrosse Head Coach Eric Blackburn has not only turned the program into a local powerhouse, but he has also changed the lives of many of his athletes for the better by setting a great example for them. For his efforts, Blackburn has received regional and national awards from the Positive Coaching Alliance organization. “I feel that Coach Blackburn, while he loves to win, isn’t all about the game,” said senior captain and University of Utah Blackburn was chosen as one of 25 people for a national PCA award and will be eligible to become the Positive Coaching commit Luke Haley. “He helps people off the field too by Alliance Coach of the Year. The winner receives $7,500 for their school’s program. teaching them how to become would be big for the Newsome lacrosse probetter men. For example, my gram because kids that play the sport in Hillfreshman year I was struggling in one of my sborough County have to pay money in order classes and he noticed, so he stayed at study to play. The team has to raise money for evhall and helped me with an upcoming test I erything they do because they aren’t funded had. He kept doing this until I developed a by the county, even though they are a varsity good habit and my grade was up to par.” sport. The 11-year head coach was one of 100 “It’s a great honor,” said Blackburn. “It people from Hillsborough County that was validates a lot of what we’ve been doing as selected for the Regional Double-Goal Coach a program, nurturing kids and working hard. Award. He was also chosen as one of 25 I was more happy for the school, which depeople for a national PCA award and will be serves it. They’re big into the Positive Coacheligible to become the Positive Coaching Alliing Alliance, doing things the right way—not ance Coach of the Year. The winner receives just winning games, but nurturing kids and $7,500 for their school’s program. The award
Blackburn celebrates with Newsome Booster President Jill Rintoul, who helped nominate him for the award.
building young men and women. It’s big for the kids because it really shows no coach is better than their kids. It’s an honor that the award’s in my name, but I’m just proud of everyone involved in it.” Blackburn works for Homeland Security, and in the evening after work, he has practice with his team five or six days a week. He played every sport growing up in a small town in Boston. He developed a love for coaching when he started helping coach his siblings’ basketball teams when he was in high school. He later went on to the Coast Guard Academy, and upon graduation got back into his passion. Blackburn became a parent and has
coached most of his life. He now has 35-plus years of coaching experience. The Wolves have won the district championship eight times under Blackburn and have a record of 148-19. They have only lost one district game in that time as well. Blackburn admitted that he loves to win but said that the most rewarding aspect of coaching is when he sees his players years after they graduate and they still talk about what Newsome lacrosse meant to them in that part of their lives. “Winning gives you that instant gratification, it’s fun because I like seeing the kids smile, I love seeing them celebrate after the games. That’s good, but sometimes they need to lose also—and when they lose the game, they later pick their heads back up. I’m in this for the long game, watching the long-term life lessons that it teaches kids. I kind of see it five-six years after they graduate. I’ve been at my kids’ weddings; I have kids that have kids, so it’s really nice to see those kids and have them talk about their fond memories, that’s really awesome to me.” The Positive Coaching Alliance is a national organization that promotes a positive youth sports culture by providing training and resources for coaches, parents and athletes. “Coach Blackburn has made me a better person on and off the field by teaching me to have a winning mentality in everything that I do,” said Ashton Kitchiner.
April 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 39
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JAIME MILLER.
BLOOMINGDALE BASKETBALL WINS FIRST DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP UNDER HEAD COACH SHAWN VANZANT The Bloomingdale Bulls basketball program has made huge strides since they hired Head Coach Shawn Vanzant in 2018. After winning only three games in his first year, the Bulls have flipped the script this season, winning their first district championship since 2016. For seniors Rudy Hayes and Mason Crotwell, who have seen it all in their four seasons at Bloomingdale, the victory was well worth the The Bulls won their first district championship under Head Coach wait. The two were not only invaluShawn Vanzant. able in the run to the district championship, but they also were instrumid-February to claim the district crown. Shawn Vanzant celebrates with his daughter Rudy Hayes had key buckets down the mental in the program’s quick turnaround. Hayes had key buckets down the stretch after the win stretch and led the team with 21 points Captain Rudy Hayes was a four-year starter and led the team with 21 points. The team will definitely be something I tell my kids at point guard and averaged a team-high faced a lot of adversity during the season about.” years we went from winning three games 15.3 points per game and 4.1 rebounds per after a quick 14-5 start. During the season, Vanzant said that winning the district to what we’ve done this year. I think wingame this season. Crotwell was the team’s the Bulls lost one of their best players, Ru- championship was one of his goals when he ning a district championship solidifies that second-leading scorer with 9.1 points per ben Lopez, for six games due to injury. At took the job, but it wasn’t his main goal. His what we are doing is working, and kids are game. the end of the season, the Bulls lost six in main goal is to take it one game at a time proud to be a part of it.” “It was great. It was my first time having a row before reeling off three consecutive and put his players in the best situation to Each season under Vanzant, the team four-year kids and they deserved it,” said wins during the district tournament. be successful, and his long-term goal is to has achieved more wins than the season Vanzant. “They stuck with me for four years “It felt very gratifying,” said Crotwell. make it to Lakeland for a final four. before. Last year, they made it to the disand they never complained, never wavered “Rudy and I worked our butts off to help “I think it definitely impacts the program,” trict championship but fell a little bit short at all with all that fell on them. For the guys turn the program around with Coach Van- said Vanzant. “Kids today like to see results. before going back in 2022 and finishing the to win on our home floor, their senior year zant. The four years of hard work paid off. I think that winning the district champion- job. Vanzant is happy with the progress his was so special.” Going out on top definitely was satisfying, ship shows that my coaching staff and what program has made, but he isn’t satisfied The Bulls defeated Manatee 64-52 in and having our team on that banner forever I’m talking about is working. The last four just yet.
Page 40
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 4
April 2022
Osprey Observer
Page 41
AREA SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY OPTIONS TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED Have you got the calendar ready? Summer is just around the corner and camps are gearing up for an active and busy camp season! The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pullout section. We asked local camps what they are doing to keep students engaged and active this year! Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club Tennis Camp Do you have a budding tennis player in your home? If so, Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club camps might be the place for you. Camp Osprey, LLC For a fun, traditional camp experience, check out Camp Osprey which is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Camp activities include high ropes courses, ziplines, horse back riding and much more. Hurricane Volleyball Academy Volleyball players should check out the camps offered at Hurricane Volleyball Academy (HVA) owned by Riverview residents Victoria and Brian Adams.
Patel Conservatory The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of week summer camps for rising actors, musicians, and dancers starting May 31 and running through August 5. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday. Trilogy Dive This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-yearolds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Kids R Kids With locations in Valrico and Lithia, Kids R Kids has been offering summer camps since cians. 2004. This summer, the With a variety theme is Camp Boomerof camp options in full ang and students can sign and half-day experiences, there’s up on a weekly basis or for something for every young entertainer. the whole summer. Mathnasium of Riverview and Brandon Have your child’s math skills been impacted by the last school year? Have they fallen behind? Music Showcase The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts at Music Showcase offers summer camps for aspiring actors a n d musi-
High 5, Inc. Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to sail away for the best summer of their lives, kicking off on May 31. YMCA All camps begin on May 31 and run through August 5 with ten separate sessions available Monday-Friday. TLC’S Gypsy Haven TLC’s Gypsy Haven offers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focusing on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sidekicks Summer Camp Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up for its Summer Camp 2022 program with Martial Arts, field trips & more. Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Or, enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ ospreyobserver.com. Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) to kquesada@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online. Have a great summer of fun!
Page 42
Osprey Observer
TRILOGY DIVE CENTER HOSTS SUMMER YOUTH SCUBA CAMPS
By Lily Belcher
This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-year-olds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Successful students will earn their scuba certification as Open Water Diver or Advanced Open Water Diver. “[The goal of the camp is to] have fun, meet new friends, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting two scuba camps for 10 to explore our 17-year-olds this summer. underwater world and get scuba certified,” said Scuba Instructor and Owner Mike Massaro. Each camp is offered every week this summer. No camps are held on the week of Wednesday to Sunday, July 4-8. Each week of camp will last Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Trilogy Dive Center on E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. For the weeklong certification camp, campers will participate in 40 hours of dive instruction and leave with their scuba certification. The Open Water Camp is for those with no prior scuba certification. The camper will participate in the classroom, pool and open water checkout dives to earn their Open
Water Scuba Certification. “The camper starts off their week with classroom academics and pool work. This happens Monday-Wednesday. Thursday and Friday are spent at dive sites with the divers putting their newfound skills to work,” explained Massaro. “To become certified, they must attend every day, successfully pass all of the water skills in the pool and successfully complete four checkout dives that we conduct at lakes and springs.” Every diver starts with Open Water Scuba. Trilogy Dive Center’s instructors are military veterans, health care professionals and educators. They have extensive experience training young adults to scuba dive. Each camp is limited to 10 campers and will be led by an adult scuba instructor. Equipment, drinks and snacks will be provided, so the only things campers have to bring is lunch, sunblock and a towel. The Open Water Camp is $595, and the Advanced Open Water Camp is $695. Register now and give your child an adventure that will last a lifetime. Visit trilogyscuba. com, call 813-425-3500 or email scuba@ triologyscuba.com.
Volume 21, Issue 4
THE PATEL CONSERVATORY AT THE STRAZ CENTER HOSTS SUMMER CAMPS
By Lily Belcher
The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Cen- basics and skills to showcase in their final ter is hosting a variety of week summer performances. Showstoppers: Broadway Incamps for rising actors, musicians, and tensive is available for teen students at the dancers starting on Tuesday, May 31 and end of the summer as well. Musical theater running through Fricamps are an option for day, August 5. musically inclined acWeekly camps tors and actresses to will take place combine their dancMonday through ing, acting and singFriday, with preing talents on stage. and post-camp Music camps and available for an intensives are availadditional $30 able throughout the each or $50 for summer, with focuses both extensions. on different genres in The Patel Coneach camp. The Patel Conservatory offers dance, servatory offers “Summer music summer dance camps theater and music camps throughout the offerings at the Patel Consummer. and intensives for beservatory allow students to ginner and advanced dancers. The advanced experience singing in a choir, discovering and intensive camps, which vary in price, re- a new instrument or playing in a chamber quire prior experience, but its beginning jazz ensemble. Instrumentalists and vocalists of dance, tap dance and ballet camps are open all ages have fun while developing their talto elementary and middle school dancers for ents,” according to the brochure. $145. Group classes for violin, piano, singing and For aspiring actors and actresses, theater chamber music are offered over the summer students can register for the Patel Conser- and allow students to fine tune their musical vatory’s production camps. talents with a teacher. Private lessons and “The Patel Conservatory Theater De- music theory classes are also available. partment offers training in musical and Information on the camps offered as nonmusical theater through productions, well as specific dates, times and pricing are performance camps and technical theater available in the 2022 Summer Camps and programs,” explains the summer camp bro- Classes brochure on the Straz Center’s webchure. site at strazcenter.org. For more information Young actors can participate in shows like on specific details of the camps, contact the Disney’s 101 Dalmatians and Shakespeare’s admissions staff at 813-222-1040 or 800As You Like It, where they will learn theater 955-1045 (toll-free).
Osprey Observer
April 2022
YMCA CAMP INSPIRES DREAMS AND SUPPORTS CHILDREN By Amy Schechter Whether you riding, canoeing, need childcare visual arts and over the summore. mer or just want Besides many your kids to esconvenient locacape the house, tions in the Branthe YMCA has don, Riverview what kids crave and Apollo Beach at one of its area, including many summer the North Tampa camp locations. YMCA, Campo Camp CristiFamily YMCA and na Operations Spurlino Family That feeling when you’re ready for YMCA Summer Director Meagan YMCA at Big Bend Camp! Springer spoke Rd., the community with joy when she described is lucky to have Camp Cristina, summers at the YMCA: a 65-acre campus in Riverview “Camps provide an experience complete with many outdoor where kids have an opportuoptions, including a rock wall, nity that’s very unique. At the ropes course, horseback riding, heart of what we do, we are and water activities. always thinking of ways we All camps begin on Tuesday, can stimulate and support May 31 and run through Friday, kids through recreation while August 5 with 10 separate sesthey are out of school.” sions available from Monday to The American Camp Association (ACA) Friday. Book one weeklong session or book recently announced that the Tampa Met- them all. Camp programming runs from 9 ropolitan Area YMCA Summer Camps re- a.m.-4 p.m. with free early morning care ceived ACA-Accredited Camp status for the beginning at 7 a.m. and free afternoon ex2022 season. After a thorough review of tended care until 6 p.m. Prices start at only nearly 300 standards, the ACA found that $169 per week for YMCA members and the YMCA camps’ staff qualifications, train- are open to the public. Discounted rates for ing and emergency management reflect members, early registration, siblings, multithe highest standards in the industry. Plus, camp sign-ups and early-bird registration YMCA camps offer an array of fun where are available. activity specialists lead campers through For more information on specific lovarious experiences each day, including cations and pricing and to register, visit swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor tampaymca.org/programs/camp/sumeducation, nature encounters, horseback mer-camp.
Contact us today to schedule a risk-free assessment and learn about our summer specials. TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Mathnasium of Brandon 813-655-6284 1048 Bloomingdale Avenue Valrico, FL 33596 mathnasium.com/brandon
Mathnasium of Riverview 813-565-1102 Coming 1388 US 301 Soon! Riverview, FL 33579 mathnasium.com/riverview
Page 43
FOR THE LOVE OF VOLLEYBALL, HVA IS HERE By Libby Hopkins Victoria and Brian Adams are both edu- ni go off to play volleyball at the collegiate cators. Combined, they have taught in the level,” Victoria said. “We believe in providing district for more than 25 years. “We live in a home for all levels of athletes to achieve Riverview, Florida and love it here,” Victoria their personal goals.” said. “Together, we The mission of HVA is to cultishare a passion for vate an environment of compethelping the youth itive learning through innovative in our communicoaching techniques and high ty, whether that is standards of performance. “HVA through education, is a volleyball club dedicated sports, community to player development both on service, you name it.” and off the court,” Victoria said. Brian won coach “HVA’s customized practice seof the year in 2012 at quences enable us to East Bay High in the maximize individual Western Conference skills training through for volleyball. “Brian a unique format.” The mission of Hurricane has been coaching for HVA will offer volVolleyball Academy (HVA) 14 years in Hillsbor- is to cultivate an environleyball summer camps ough County,” Victoria ment of competitive learning this year. “We have said. “I won teacher of through innovative coaching techniques camps that run all through the year at East Bay and high standards of performance for summer,” Victoria said. ages 8-18. High School in 2016.” “We will be offering bundles Brian grew up playwhere people can pick and ing competitive beach volleyball and has choose the skills position they want to focus always had a love for sports and coaching. on. We will have $10 open gym time where “He is currently teaching physical education they get some upfront instruction, then get at Riverview High School,” Victoria said. to play some games in the gym. We will be “About six years ago, he decided to begin offering college camps as well. Our last colthe journey of fulfilling a personal challenge lege camp with Warner University resulted of starting his own volleyball club. I jumped in a player receiving a college scholarship to right on board.” And from there, Hurricane play volleyball. We target ages 8-18, both Volleyball Academy (HVA) was born. boys and girls, all skill levels.” HVA started in 2016 and has grown from If you’d like to learn more about HVA or a 15 to 18-year-old girls club to expand into their upcoming summer camps, you can visit a club for both 8 to 18-year-old girls and its website at www.hurricanevolleyballacadboys. “We’ve had dozens of Hurricane alum- emy.com or call Brian at 813-220-0905.
Page 44
Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club Tennis Camp Do you have a budding tennis player in your home? If so, Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club camps might be the place for you. Located at 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico, camps take place Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m.12 Noon, with Friday as a rain day. Camps, which boast a 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio, cost $185 a week, but if you register before Friday, April 15, you qualify for the early bird price of $170. New players get a free beginner racket when registering for more than two weeks. Additional discounts are available with inquiry. Snacks and meals are not included. To learn more, call 502-5160 or visit www.buckhornracquet.com.
Osprey Observer
can be purchased in the camp canteen. The camp is located at 18050 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-928-6860. For more information, visit www.camposprey.com.
Hurricane Volleyball Academy Volleyball players should check out the camps offered at Hurricane Volleyball Academy (HVA), owned by Riverview residents Victoria and Brian Adams. HVA started in 2016 and has grown from a 15 to 18-year-old girls club to expand into 8 to 18-yearold for both girls and boys with camps that will run throughout the summer. Options will include bundles where people can pick and choose the skills position they want to focus on and $10 open gym time, which will include Camp Osprey, LLC instruction and games. College camps will For a fun, traditional camp experience, also be offered. check out Camp Osprey, which is located To learn more, visit www.hurricanevolon 204 acres of beautiful leyballacademy.com or call 220-0905. woodlands alongside the Little Manatee River in Mathnasium Of Riverview And Wimauma. Camp activBrandon ities include high ropes Have your child’s math skills been imcourses, ziplines, horsepacted by the last school year? Have they back riding and much more. fallen behind? Are there gaps in their learnCamps take place every week starting on ing? Do they need a greater challenge? If Sunday, June 5, and campers can sign up so, consider a summer math program with for a week or the whole summer. Day and Mathnasium. But don’t wait too long beovernight options are available, with day cause spots are filling up fast. camp costing $325 a week and overnight Mathnasium’s personalized learning being $645. Meals are provided and snacks plans are proven to improve grades and
give them a head start going into the new school year. With live face-to-face instruction, either in-center or online, its summer programs are designed to work in tandem with the other summer camps and activities. Just two or three one-hour sessions per week are all kids need to help keep their math skills on track for the upcoming school year, and your child will continue to enjoy summer because Mathnasium makes learning math fun. Call today for a free assessment. Mathnasium of Brandon (mathnasium.com/brandon) is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. and can be reached at 655-6284, and Mathnasium of Riverview (mathnasium.com/riverview) is located at 1388 U.S. 301 and can be reached at 565-1102. Music Showcase The Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase offers summer camps for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer. The traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest. Its other camp option is a musical theater camp, where campers work together
Volume 21, Issue 4
over the course of a few weeks to put on a show. Camp registration opens in mid-March. For further details, visit www.faopa.org or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. The Patel Conservatory The Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center is hosting a variety of week summer camps for rising actors, musicians and dancers starting Tuesday, May 31 and running through Friday, August 5. Weekly camps will take place Monday through Friday, with pre- and post-camp available for an additional $30 each or $50 for both extensions. Information on the camps offered as well as specific dates, times and pricing are available in the 2022 Summer Camps and Classes brochure on the Straz Center’s website at strazcenter.org. For more information on specific details of the camps, contact the admissions staff at 222-1040 or 800-9551045 (toll-free). Trilogy Dive This summer, Trilogy Dive Center is hosting scuba camps for 10 to 17-yearolds: the Open Water Camp, for noncertified scuba divers, and the Advanced Open Water Camp, for those already scuba certified. Successful students will earn their scuba certification as Open Water Diver or Advanced Open Water Diver. Each camp is limited to 10 campers and
April 2022
will be led by an adult scuba instructor. Equipment, drinks and snacks will be provided, so the only things campers have to bring is lunch, sunblock and a towel. The Open Water Camp is $595, and the Advanced Open Water Camp is $695. To sign up for the camp or for more information on Trilogy Dive’s camps, visit trilogyscuba.com, call 425-3500 or email scuba@triologyscuba.com.
Osprey Observer
on a cruise ship theme, including swimming, diving, games and activities, a scavenger hunt, dress-up days, various tournaments, bounce houses, a slip and slide, water slides and gaming tournaments. Camp is offered Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5, which is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Campers can sign up for weeks throughout the summer or the entire summer, with registration opening in April. There is a $40 registration fee per child Kids ‘R’ Kids and camp costs $160 a week per child. Friday, August 5. Weekly camps will take To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org or place Monday through Friday, with pre- call 689-0908. and post-camp available for an additional $30 each or $50 for both extensions. YMCA Information on the camps offered as Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA has well as specific dates, times and pricing are what kids crave at one of its many summer available in camp locations. the 2022 YMCA camps offer an array S u m m e r of fun where activity specialists Camps and will lead campers through varC l a s s e s ious experiences each day, inbrochure on the Straz Center’s website at cluding swimming, science, high strazcenter.org. For more information on ropes, outdoor education, nature specific details of the camps, contact the encounters, horseback riding, caadmissions staff at 222-1040 or 800-955- noeing, visual arts and more. 1045 (toll-free). All camps begin on Tuesday, May 31 and run through Friday, August 5 with 10 High 5, Inc. separate sessions available from Monday Brandon’s High 5, Inc. is invitto Friday. Book one weeking students to sail away for the long session or book them all. best summer of their lives, kickCamp programming runs from ing off on Tuesday, May 31. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with free early Campers will be able to morning care beginning at 7 choose different activities based a.m. and free afternoon ex-
tended care until 6 p.m. Prices start at only $169 per week for YMCA members and are open to the public. Discounted rates for members, early registration, siblings, multicamp sign-ups and early-bird registration are available. For more information on specific locations and pricing and to register, visit www.tampaymca.org/letscamp. FishHawk Fellowship Church Sports Summer Camp Calling all young athletes! FishHawk Fellowship Church is hosting its very popular sports camps again this summer with sessions for basketball, soccer and flag football. The basketball camps start Monday, June 6th and continue through Friday, July 1st with soccer and flag football following the weeks of July 11th and July 18th respectively. Sessions are broken down by sport and age group. The price is $100 per week and there are options for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The camp runs from 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. and campers need to bring their own lunch and water bottle. For dates and to sign up, visit fishhawkfc.org/sports. The church is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia.
Page 45
martial arts, amazing field trips, arts and crafts, educational lessons and so much more. Your child is going to have a blast! (For rising kindergartners to rising sixth graders.) Visit www.fishhawksummercamps.com or text 308-0368. Sidekicks is located upstairs at Park Square in the heart of FishHawk Ranch. TLC’S Gypsy Haven Located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia, TLC’s Gypsy Haven offers weekly themed riding camps, ages 8-99, focused on riding and grooming. The camps take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. from Monday, June 6 to Friday, August 5. Students pack their own lunch, snacks and drinks and are encouraged to wear light pants or leggings, but boots are a must. The camp boasts one teacher, one aide and one volunteer per 10 students. For more information, visit tlcsfarms. com, call Tammi at 842-4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com
Impact’s Awesome After School & Summer Camp Located at 11942 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, Impact’s Awesome Summer Camps include martial arts, dance, tumbling, outdoor sports, edSidekicks Summer Camp ucational lessons and much more for ages Sidekicks Martial Arts is gearing up 5-12. To learn more, visit www.Impactfor its summer camp 2022 program with SummerCamps.com or call 813-952-8053.
Page 46
Osprey Observer
Volume 21, Issue 4
KIDS ‘R’ KIDS OFFERS SUMMER FUN & FIELD SAIL AWAY WITH HIGH 5, INC. SUMMER CAMP FUN By Kate Quesada TRIPS AT TWO LOCATIONS By Kate Quesada
“Kids ‘R’ Kids and water play. Learning Academy Other themes offers a safe, well-suwill include ‘Depervised, educational, cade Dash’; ‘Natengaging and thrilling ural Talent’; where summer camp experistudents will draw ence for children K-5,” inspiration from said Owner Ben Ferthe earth, and nandes. ‘What’s Cookin’,’ With locations in which will allow Valrico and Lithia, campers to cook Kids ‘R’ Kids has been up a ton and give offering summer them the chance camps since 2004. to learn how our This summer, the taste buds work theme is Camp with regard to Boomerang, and sweet vs. sour vs. students can sign salty foods. The up on a weekly baweek ends with a sis or for the whole potluck dinner feasummer. turing a favorite “Camp Boomerdish from each of ang will show- Registration is now available for camp at Kids ‘R’ our campers. Kids in Lithia and Valrico. case unique weekly According to Ferthemes designed to make your campers nandes, field trips will include a Rays game, smile, think, explore, collaborate and grow Sea Screamer in Clearwater, the Ringling in exciting new directions,” said Fernandes. Museum, a tour of the Bucs stadium and The summer camp will feature Australian more. themes, including ‘Down Under,’ which will “We even go to the River Hills Country take campers to explore what makes Aus- Club pool,” he explained. tralia special; a movie-themed week called The camp includes all meals and field ‘KidFlix’; and ‘Reef Creatures,’ where camp- trips, and space is limited. ers will pay a virtual visit to the beaches Kids ‘R’ Kids Valrico is located at 4321 in Australia, including a deep dive into the Lynx Paw Trl. and can be reached at 657Great Barrier Reef and a chance to learn 6200, and Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk is about a variety of ocean creatures that call located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia it home. The week will include beach games and can be reached at 813-654-7000.
Summer camp is “We will have a DJ sure to be a hit at at the start of the Brandon’s High 5, Inc. week to do the ‘MunThe camp, which inster Drill,’” added Nelvites students to sail son. away for the best Camp is offered summer of their lives, Monday through Friwill kick off on Tuesday from 7 a.m.-6 day, May 31. p.m. at High 5, which According to High 5 is located at 405 BevRegional Director Ererly Blvd. in Brandon. ica Nelson, campers Campers can sign up will be able to choose for weeks throughout different activities the summer or the based on a cruise ship entire summer with theme. sessions starting on “We will have a Tuesday, May 31 and Summer camp at High 5, Inc. will have a cruise itinerary for registration opening in cruise theme this year. each day, but the April. campers will have the There is a $40 regisopportunity to make tration fee per child and their own choices as camp cost $160 a week well,” said Nelson. per child. Camp will consist of High 5, formerly Bran‘The Stern,’ which will be don Sports and Aquatics outside games; ‘The Lido Club (BSAC), has been Deck’ which involves part of the Brandon time in the location’s community since 1963 pool; field trip ‘Excursions’; ‘Creative and was the area’s first multipurpose Cover’; ‘The Plank,’ which are diving facility, dedicated to making positive boards; and ‘Encounters,’ which will in- impacts on the lives of residents in the volve pickleball, swimming and other region and beyond. The site also offers sports and recreation activities. a competitive swimming program, OlymOther features will include a scaven- pic-level diving as well as swimming lesger hunt, dress-up days, various tourna- sons from beginners to adults. ments, bounce houses, a slip and slide, To learn more, visit www.high5inc.org water slides and gaming tournaments. or call 813-689-0908.
Osprey Observer
April 2022
BRANDON BALLET CONTINUES LEGACY OF AWARDING THE RICHARD MUNRO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
By Kathy L. Collins
The winner of the anto build dancers who benual Richard Munro Mecome not only great at morial Scholarship is Jada their craft but great in Stevenson, a demi-solotheir character.” ist dancer with Brandon Dancers who are seBallet. She has been with rious about their ballet Brandon Ballet for four training are invited to auyears. dition to be considStevenson is currentered for the scholly a junior at Blake High arship. Based upon Jada Stevenson (center), a School in Tampa, where junior at Blake High School the judges’ recomshe studies film produc- in Tampa and a dancer with mendation, BranBrandon Ballet, is this year’s Richard tion. She has trained in don Ballet awards ballet, modern, jazz and Munro Memorial Scholarship winner. Ste- one winner a prize of venson is shown here with Alice H. Bock contemporary for the past (left), executive director of Brandon Ballet, $250 to $500 to go seven years. In the future, and Brentwood Townend (right), assistant towards a summer Stevenson hopes to use training program artistic director for Brandon Ballet. the skills gained in school of their choice. For and at The Dance Center, home of Brandon over 10 years, the Richard Munro MemoriBallet, to study towards becoming an OB- al Scholarship has provided several dancers GYN. Hanna Townend, administrative direc- the opportunity to fulfill their aspirations of tor for Brandon Ballet, said. “Let us raise a dancing professionally. heartfelt congratulations to Jada.” Brandon Ballet was founded in 1993. Munro was a vital component of Brandon Brandon Ballet is a nonprofit, preprofesBallet. As a ballet coach, choreographer, sional ballet company that develops and consultant and master costume artist, his promotes opportunities for aspiring young creativity and artistry shone in everything dancers. By offering a superior training prohe touched. His legacy lives on at Brandon gram and three major performances each Ballet, which was graced with such an asset. year, Brandon Ballet helps serious dancers Townend said, “When he passed in 2008, broaden their dance experiences. we sought a way for his legacy and inspiYou can see the dancers of Brandon Ballet ration to live on. We are honored to contin- perform locally in An Evening of Enchantue his legacy annually through the Richard ment on Saturday, April 9 at 7 p.m. in Sun Munro Memorial Scholarship.” Townend City Center at 1900 Clubhouse Dr. Tickets added, “Through dance training, perfor- are $16, which includes admission and desmance opportunities and more, we are able sert. To get tickets, please call 813-387-3447.
Ages 8 - 18
Page 47
GET READY TO ROCK YOUR SUMMER WITH THE FAOPA AT MUSIC SHOWCASE By Amy Schechter Want the perfect place to make memories and music? The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase offers a magical summer camp experience for aspiring actors and musicians. With a variety of camp options in full and
FAOPA summer camp sign-ups start soon.
half-day experiences, there’s something for every young entertainer. Debbie Evans, director of accounts, cannot stress how wonderful the experience is: “It’s more than just learning about music or learning how to sing. Kids are gaining self-confidence and self-esteem. They blossom into performers who like music and like being on stage.” The traditional camp exposes campers to music and more. Every few hours, students can learn an instrument like guitar and drums, take vocal lessons, take acting and improv classes and do arts and crafts. You can sign up for one weeklong camp or you can sign up for multiple camps. Camps are structured by age, ability and interest.
Their other camp option is a musical theater camp. Campers work together over the course of a few weeks to put on a show. They will memorize lines, music and choreography. This summer, depending on the camper’s age, they will perform Newsies Jr., Oklahoma! Youth Edition, Bye Bye Birdie Youth Edition, Big the Musical, High School Musical 2 Jr., Fiddler on the Roof Jr. and Broadway Boot Camp. Sanchez went on to say, “If you do the musical camps, you’re learning about teamwork in an ensemble. A lot of parents are always so surprised. They had no idea their child had it within them when they see them perform.” Campers must bring their own lunches, drinks and snacks, with snacks also available for purchase. The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was established to support the performing arts through programs at the academy and in the community. Camp registration opens in mid-March. For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org or call 813-490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
Summer Camp Options Competitive Girls and Boys Teams
Summer Boot Camps (June/July)
Several skill specific sessions to hone a current skill or come to ALL and learn all aspects of volleyball positions. For beginner/intermediate and advanced players. This is a low commitment but high energy and fast paced skill building. A great way to learn or to continue to improve over the summer.
College Clinics (June/July)
Last year we welcomed both Webber International University and Warner University head coaches to host a college clinic for players in our area. This was for girls and boys and had beach and indoor volleyball opportunities.
Open Gym (June/July)
$10 Open Gyms- both beginner and intermediate advanced. If you want to have some fun give volleyball a try, make some friends in the process this is a great start for you. This open gym also gives you an opportunity to meet our amazing coaching staff and learn some quick basic skills.
High School and Middle School Dust off (Late July)
This is a targeted clinic designed to refresh and remind players of what High School and Middle School volleyball coaches are looking for. From skills, techniques even body language. Let us help you dust off your skills as you prepare for your schools volleyball tryouts.
Your One Stop Shop for all things VOLLEYBALL! Summer Camps • Fall Leagues • Team Camps • Skills Clinics Positional Trainings • Training for ALL Skill Levels
Visit Our Website For More Information!
813-220-0905 | HurricaneVolleyballAcademy.com
Page 48
Osprey Observer
CENTER PLACE: ART CAMPS & MORE By Libby Hopkins Summer is just a Center Place’s few short months summer art camps away, so to get cost $125 per ready for summer, camper and the Center Place Fine camp times are 8 Arts & Civic Assoa.m.-1 p.m. All the ciation is excited to camps’ supplies are offer two awesome included, but campsummer art camps. ers do need to bring In June, Center their own lunches. Place will offer its Summer art camps and new classes are happening Camps are capped at Center Place. Jump-Start to Art at 12 campers each, Camp with Doreen Donovan and Outside so register soon for one of the camps’ weeks the Lines Summer Art Camp with Alejan- because they will fill up quickly. dro Algarin. “Doreen was a summer favorite Center Place has a new teacher, Chris last year, so she’s back with us at Center Kline, who recently joined the staff at CenPlace for two fun weeks of art camp,” said ter Place. Kline will be teaching oil painting Libby Hopkins, Center Place’s executive di- on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.-12 Noon rector. “Doreen’s camps will be June 20-24, and then adult art therapy on Wednesday and the ages for both of her camps [are] evenings from 5-7 p.m. 6-10 years old. Her second camp will take Kline is currently the president of the place on July 18-22, and it’s the same ages Brandon League of Fine Arts, which has its for that week as well.” The Jump-Start to meetings at Center Place. “Since Chris is a Art Camp will offer a different form of art familiar face at our center, it was a natueach day, art scavenger hunts and so much ral fit for him to teach these two classes more. at Center Place,” Hopkins said. “Chris’ class Center Place’s Outside the Lines Summer fees are try-it-one-time for $12 or four Art Camp with Alejandro Algarin will ex- classes for $45.” plore the world of street art and cartoonIf you are interested in registering your ing. “Alejandro’s classes are becoming quite children for any of Center Place’s summer art popular at Center Place, so we are thrilled camps or if you’d like to register for Kline’s he has decided to offer two art camps this new classes, you can visit Center Place’s summer at Center Place,” Hopkins said. website at www.centerplacebrandon.com “Alejandro’s June camp will be June 13-17, or call the center at 813-685-8888. Center and the ages for this camp [are] 6-10 years Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. old. His July camp will be July 11-15, and the B inside the Brandon Regional Library. ages for this camp are 10-14 years old.
Volume 21, Issue 4
JOIN THE ANNUAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL OF TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY By Kathy L. Collins For 42 years, proximately 30 the Hillsborough minutes with a County Public question and anLibrary Cooperswer session. ative has held a In addition Storytelling Festo virtual sestival. This year, sions, there the Storytelling are some live Festival is virtuonline events al. This allows scheduled a lot more area The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative is which require residents to be- presenting the annual Storytelling Festival now through registration by May. come involved. attendees. A liThe Storytelling Festival runs through Fri- brary has been set up so that attendees who day, May 13. have missed prior virtual sessions can log in Attendees can learn the art of storytell- and watch the videos anytime at their coning and become storytellers themselves. The venience. online festival features performances by stoAdams said, “Storytelling enhances your rytellers, fun workshops and the chance to life. For young people, it strengthens reading, submit your own storytelling video. writing and listening skills. It increases conKatie Adams is a professional storyteller. fidence as there is a public speaking compoAdams is a member of the Friends of Sto- nent. Storytelling can also help strengthen rytelling of Tampa-Hillsborough County. family ties with fun stories. All of these are Adams joined the Friends of Storytelling in great even for young children.” 2014, but she has been involved with the anAdams added, “We would love for people nual Storytelling Festival since 1987. to join the Storytelling Festival this year. Adams explained that attendees will learn There is still plenty of time to join and learn everything they need to tell a story and that how to tell a story.” it’s good for parents and children. You will Adams is the owner of Make Believe learn the process of telling a story and even Theatre. She offers storytelling and puppet be able to submit a video. The video submis- shows and takes her craft to schools and sion is due by Friday, April 22. libraries throughout Florida. She has been The annual Storytelling Festival is good for doing this since 2000. children in kindergarten through 12th grade. For festival information and to learn how You can join any time by visiting www.hcplc. to participate, please visit www.hcplc.org/ org/storytellingfestival. Each session is ap- storytellingfestival.
(Ages K-5)
April 2022
Osprey Observer
HCPS ANNOUNCES NEW ACADEMIES FOR HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION
Staff Report
Hillsborough County cuss course programs Public Schools (HCPS), that would be most in collaboration with beneficial for a future industry leaders, has workforce as well as announced an innovathe type of equipment tive plan to ensure the students should train workforce of tomorrow with during their courswill be prepared with es. Students will gain the necessary skills to knowledge in specific have an exciting career programs of study or pathway after graduwork towards industry. ation. Students will be The cutting-edge Hilltrained in state-of-thesborough Construction art programs housed Academy at Bowers/ Hillsborough County Public Schools in high-tech, advanced Whitley will welcome recently announced Building Tampa’s facilities through partstudents district-wide Tomorrow. nerships at local, state and national levels. in grades nine through 12. Over the next five Following extensive research and in-per- to 10 years, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Stason meetings with industry experts, edu- tistics expects faster-than-average employcational advocates and civic leaders, Hill- ment growth in the building and construcsborough County Public Schools recently tion industry. The district has been meeting announced Building Tampa’s Tomorrow. with local industry experts to determine the This new workforce development initiative most in-demand careers that will, in many will create two new high schools—the Hills- cases, offer students high-paying jobs right borough Medical Academy and the Hillsbor- after graduation. Programs of study or inough Construction Academy, set to open in dustry certifications will focus on areas inFall 2023—and a Medical Technical College cluding building construction, AC, refrigeropening in Fall 2024. The district is also look- ation, heating technology, electric vehicles, ing to add a distribution/logistics education- augmented reality/visualization, water infraal pathway down the road. structure/treatment and framing/drywall. The state-of-the-art Hillsborough Medical “Hillsborough County Public Schools is anAcademy at D.W. Waters will serve students swering the call to leverage a highly trained district-wide in ninth through 12th grade. workforce that aligns with the needs of emHCPS is partnering with major hospitals in ployers in the Tampa Bay area,” said Hillsthe area, including Tampa General Hospital, borough County Public Schools SuperintenBayCare, AdventHealth, Moffitt Cancer Cen- dent Addison Davis. ter and Ultimate Medical Academy, to disVisit www.hillsboroughschools.org.
Page 49
CALLING ALL YOUNG NATURALISTS Staff Report A new program is The curriculum available for young covers three Florida nature enthusiasts ecosystems—upinterested in learning lands, freshwater and more about Florida’s coastal—and includes environment. Inspired lessons on animals, by the Florida Master plants and humans Naturalist Program, living together with this youth program nature. It also introtakes kids ages 10-13 duces participants to The Florida Youth Naturalist Program on a journey through career opportunities Instructor Field Guide, developed by UF/ Florida’s ecosystems. in natural resources, IFAS Extension, Florida 4-H and the Florida The Florida Youth Master Naturalist Program, offers 24 hours ways to give back to Naturalist Program of instruction, including hands-on activities, their community and field trips and more, for kids ages 10-13. Instructor Field outdoor safety. Guide, developed by “Programs like this UF/IFAS Extension, Florida 4-H and the help to create lifelong learners with a curiFlorida Master Naturalist Program, offers osity for exploring,” Johnson said. “We want 24 hours of instruction, including hands-on youth to leave this program and grow as activities, field trips and more. The curricu- young naturalists and budding scientists.” lum is geared toward nonformal instructors The curriculum is available for purchase like Extension agents and nature center ed- by anyone. Everyone is encouraged to beucators that host youth programming but come an endorsed instructor to receive adcould be used by formal educators. ditional resources and evaluation materials. The program is flexible and can be taught Endorsed instructors will be listed on the across the span of a weeklong summer camp program website to help draw participants or spread over several months for groups to the program. that may meet monthly. It’s also adaptable “This project has been in the works for a to younger ages if needed. long time, and we’re excited to get it in the “This is a critical age to expose youth to hands of educators around the state,” said environmental appreciation and develop an Johnson. “We hope to continue modifying understanding of the natural world,” said and updating it over time so it stays releShelly Johnson, UF/IFAS Extension state vant. Then, we hope to develop curriculum specialized agent in natural resources. “We for the 14 to 17-year-old age group too.” want youth to understand and appreciate For more information on the program, to nature to ingrain a conservation ethic in become an endorsed instructor, visit https:// them. Then, they grow up to be adults that programs.ifas.ufl.edu/florida-youth-naturalcare about Florida’s natural resources.” ist-program.
Page 50
Osprey Observer
MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY WITH DANCE AND HAIRCUTS By Libby Hopkins Dancing for a Differbeautiful and handence is a 501(c)(3) nonsome.” profit organization with The event and possia mission to make dance bly new program will and the arts more availbe under and hosted by able to all children in the Dancing for a Difference Tampa area. The organion Monday, April 4. zation has been growing “We are still working lately and has moved out the times but keep into a new space with an eye on our Facebook the ability offer more page for more details,” programs. said Battaglia. “Dancing for a Dif“This event will not ference is growing at a only give kids in foster rapid rate and the space carefree haircuts and next door to ours is va- Dancing for a Difference will be hosting pampering but also be cant,” Owner Sara Batt- a fundraiser on Monday, April 4 for Dos a fundraiser to open the aglia said. “We had al- for a Difference. The goal of this fund- space next door to ours ready made comments raiser is to give children in foster care to allow for events like haircuts. about wanting to rent this to be ongoing as it out in the near future. Jenn well as allow more space for Lawless came to me expressDancing for a Difference to ofing interest in renting one of fer more dance, art, music and the smaller rooms in the back so much more.” to open her own salon suite.” Battaglia is looking to the This request from Lawless community for sponsors to help got Battaglia’s wheels turning. with Dos for a Difference. “Hair sponsor“My mind went off on a tangent as usual ships are $250, nail sponsorships are $150 and with lots of conversation and thoughts, and makeup sponsorships are $150,” Battso now we have ‘Dos for a Difference,’” aglia said. Battaglia said. “We would like to start by To help Battaglia and Dancing for a Difgiving 10 children in foster care haircuts ference raise money for Dos for a Differfor free. We are also hoping to work with a ence, visit dancestudio-pro.com or contact Mary Kay consultant and/or a color street Battaglia at 813-601-3009. Dancing for a consultant to make these young girls and Difference is located at 1076 E. Brandon boys who are going through so much feel Blvd. ,#101 in Brandon.
Volume 21, Issue 4
BEYOND VAN GOGH: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE COMES TO SARASOTA By Michelle Caceres Prolific impressionist helps us understand artist Vincent van Gogh’s there was more to the innovative works, numpainter than his poor bering more than 2,000 mental health. “He pieces created during a saw beauty in ordinary career that spanned just life and painted those 10 years, are scattered things,” she said. “Art in museums and private was the way he comcollections throughout Tickets are on sale now for Beyond Van municated with the the world. One of his Gogh: The Immersive Experience in Sara- world.” sota until Sunday, April 24. most famous works, Curtat said the exhibThe Starry Night, inspired by the view from it is wonderful for all ages. “In the Immersive his window at an asylum in Southern France, Room, children are engaged as they follow is on permanent display at the Museum of the petals as they float on the floor,” she said. Modern Art in New York. “It’s impactful to see them connecting to art Producer Paquin Entertainment Group is in this way.” bringing more than 300 of his 19th-centu- Beyond Van Gogh, which runs through Sunry masterpieces into the 21st century in an day, April 24 is open Sunday to Thursday, 10 immersive way at ‘Beyond Van Gogh: The a.m.-9 p.m., and Friday to Saturday, 10 a.m.Immersive Experience,’ which takes the art 10 p.m. It takes about an hour to experience lover into a three-dimensional world that ex- the entire exhibit, with final entry being one hilarates the senses. hour before closing time. Located at 195 University Town Center Tickets are sold only online at www.vanDr. in Sarasota at the Starry Night Pavilion goghsarasota.com or call call 1-800-441at University Town Center, Van Gogh’s art 0819. Ticket prices start at $23.99 for chilcomes to life by appearing and disappearing, dren under 16 and $29.99 for adults. Children flowing across multiple surfaces and height- 4 years and younger are free with an accomening the senses with their immense detail. panying adult with a ticket. Through his own words set to a symphonic Exercise enthusiasts can also participate score, guests come to a new appreciation of in Beyond Yoga, where local yoga instructors this tortured artist’s stunning works as they each Thursday and Saturday guide particsegue through three areas: the Education ipants through a class while in the exhibit’s Room, the Waterfall Room and the Immer- Immersive Experience Room. sive Experience Room. For information about Beyond Van Gogh: According to art historian and creative The Immersive Experience, call 1-800-441team member Fanny Curtat, the experience 0819.
April 2022
Osprey Observer
STATE FARM DONATES $60,000 TO JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT Staff Report The Junior They act as employees Achievement (JA) and consumers, from Florida Foundation paying bills to handling has received a new customer service, and $60,000 grant they experience what it from State Farm. is like to earn and work The statewide iniin a community. JA Fitiative will support nance Park is a real life Junior Achievesimulation where ment learning students enter experiences in the game of life The Junior Achievement Florida, enabling (JA) Florida Foundation and apply finanthousands of has received a new $60,000 cial concepts to young people to balance their grant from State Farm. participate in JA’s personal budget nationally recognized financial literacy and and learn to make choices that support their career readiness learning experiences. In future goals. the past five years, State Farm has awarded The JA Florida Foundation areas have over $300,000 to support all nine JA chap- worked with local State Farm representaters across Florida. tives to build out an interactive Career Explo“State Farm is committed to helping en- ration booth for the JA Inspire Career Expo. sure that young people receive financial This virtual platform provides students with literacy and work readiness education pro- the opportunity to explore over 100 business grams,” said Jose Soto, State Farm corpo- and education booths and listen to dynamic rate responsibility analyst. “Junior Achieve- speakers. Live virtual interaction days where ment programs help all students acquire students can ask volunteers industry-related and improve their financial literacy skills, questions are scheduled. especially the low to moderate-income stuRichard George, president of Junior dents who derive greater benefits from the Achievement of Tampa Bay, stated, “The programs.” State Farm funding supports our efforts Each JA area will use the support to ad- throughout the state of Florida, and we vance learning experiences most needed in are so grateful. Junior Achievement is protheir region. viding our young people with the tools to JA Tampa Bay, which includes Hillsbor- transform their futures. We are increasing ough, Polk, Highlands and Sarasota Coun- economic equity and mobility through our ties, is excited to be able to open its Cap- learning experiences focused on financial litstone campus this fall and provide students eracy, work readiness and entrepreneurship. with valuable hands-on interactive learning This creates a brighter tomorrow for all.” experiences. JA BizTown introduces fifth For more information on Junior Achievegraders to economic concepts, workplace ment, visit www.juniorachievement.org/ skills and personal and business finances. web/ja-floridafoundation.
Page 51
SUN ‘N FUN AEROSPACE EXPO IS ‘WHERE IT’S AT’
Staff Report
The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is once again taking to the skies over Lakeland from Tuesday to Sunday, April 5-10, celebrating the annual comradery of aviation. This year’s expo will also be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the U. S. Air Force, which will be highlighted by a demonstration from the USAF Thunderbirds in their first appearance since 2016. Marking its 48th year, this event is the primary fundraiser for the Aerospace Center for Excellence, which enables the delivery of STEM-related and aerospace education programs and scholarships engaging over 50,000 local youth each year. The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is a sixday, aviation-nirvana event for 225,000 attendees plus millions more via the power of social media. Touted as the largest annual convention in the State of Florida as well as the second largest general aviation event in the world, attendees are encouraged to take advantage of the training forums, hands-on workshops and aircraft demonstration showcases. There’s plenty of engaging activities for the public of all ages to enjoy. The activities are scheduled from sunrise until after sunset and most are included with the ticket purchase. In keeping with this year’ theme of ‘Where It’s At,’ the expo has over 500 exhibitors, many plane manufacturers, a three-day
career fair, a National STOL Competition and more. There is lots of food options and daily live entertainment across 2,000 acres of fun. The SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In Style Pilot Program is new for 2022 and will recognize and reward pilots that fly their aircraft to the event, including pilots flying right seat, with deals and discounts throughout the week. For this year’s military air show component, it will be a U.S. Air Force trifecta. The USAF Air Demonstration Squadron Thunderbirds will take flight in their premier multirole fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The aggressive USAF A-10 Warthog, a primary low-altitude, close air support aircraft, will be showing off its unique combat capabilities. If you prefer heavy metal, the C-17 Globemaster III, aka ‘The Moose,’ will be part of a multi-aircraft static display. In addition to the daily high-adrenaline air shows, there are two-night shows with lights and fireworks flying their routines to music and an artistic drone show. There are many ticket options available including Florida resident, senior and military. On-site camping is also a fun way to never miss a minute of the excitement. The SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is being held on the south side of the Lakeland Linder International. For more information, including ticket prices, visit flysnf.org.
Page 52
Osprey Observer
Volume 21, Issue 4