Bloomingdale/FishHawk
15
January 2022
Volume 21,
Issue 1
Ph: 657-2418
See PG 47
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
HOMETOWN PAPER CELEBRATES 20 NEWSOME STUDENT PLAYS A ROLE IN YEARS OF POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS DISNEY’S, CHRISTMAS AGAIN By Makenzie Atkins
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
By Marie Gilmore, Publisher
The Osprey Observer team gathers in 2016 for the 15th anniversary ribbon cutting.
A major milestone has been reached for the award-winning Osprey Observer Community Newspapers as we print our 20th anniversary edition on Wednesday, January 5. The newspaper has been publishing local, positive community news in the Southeastern Hillsborough County area since January 5, 2001, and we couldn’t have done it without the commitment and dedication of its readers and advertisers. The Osprey Observer started out as a home-based business with a one-sheet newsletter and has grown into a corporation publishing more than 200 pages in five monthly editions with a team of more than 25 people. The main goal when we started was to make an impact on the local community. Our idea was to get involved and to make a difference in whatever ways we could. We recently purchased a larger office space on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico with room for team members to meet and run the day-to-day operations of the publication. As a community newspaper, we find that this is what sets us apart and keeps our readers interested as we cover the news. We are supported 100 percent by local small businesses who keep us a free community newspaper and allow us to print and direct-mail our editions each month. Without the support of these businesses, we wouldn’t have the staff to send to cover community events nor the community office to be the hub of local information. “My sixteen-year experience with the Osprey Observer has allowed me to integrate into my community in a very special way,” said Kerrie Hoening, FishHawk/ Bloomingdale & Valrico Sales. “The connections I’ve made [have] allowed me to build lasting relationships and friendships. I’ve also found many ways to take part in
and support local Brandon-based charities. The heart of this team is to support our residents, our local businesses, our charitable organizations and our community, and I have been very proud to be a part of the Osprey Observer for these past years.” In addition to concentrating on our main business, publishing newspapers that people read, we also have been active in our local chambers and encourage businesses to not just join but actually get involved and attend events. Just in the last year, we have been recognized for our community involvement in many ways. Managing Editor/Publisher Marie Gilmore was named the 2019 Citizen of the Year for Riverview and the Osprey Observer was named the Valrico/ FishHawk Chamber Business of the Year, Brandon Chamber Business of the Year and Riverview/Apollo Beach Chamber Small Business of the Year Finalist in 2019. The best advice we can give any small business owner is to find your niche in what you do best, be the best, treat every customer like your absolute best customer and follow the general small business rules that will set you apart: Be On Time, Send a Thank-You Note, Follow Up, Stick to Your Core Business and Do Your Best Every Time. If it weren’t for our loyal readers and avid business supporters, we couldn’t do what we do in the community. So, from the entire Osprey Observer & Christian Voice Monthly teams, we thank you!
IN THIS ISSUE: T&J PAINTING ........................................PG 3 MOTORING TAMPA BAY ................... PG 5 EYE ON BUSINESS...................PGS 25-26 SPORTS .......................................... PGS 35-36
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Ashlyn Lopez, just 4 years old a Newsome High and has since School junior, played been a part of a big role in Disney’s many roles, innewest Christmas cluding Beneath movie, Christmas the Leaves, a NetAgain. flix movie, and Last year, when The Wrong House Lopez was a sophofrom Lifetime. more in high school, She hopes to conshe auditioned to Ashlyn Lopez and Scarlett Estevez felt like sisters tinue acting even take part in a Disney by the end of filming; they bounced off of each after high school, other’s great energy. movie. Only knowing and her dream that it was going to is to one day bebe a Christmas movie, come a superhero in a she acted out specific big movie. scenes for the audition Before Lopez left for in hopes of grabbing a filming, she could only part. After being offered tell her closest friends the part of the older siswhere she was going ter, Gabby, she had to to be. To the rest of her switch to e-learning for classmates, it looked school and fly out to Chilike Lopez disappeared cago for three months of for three months. filming. “I came back, and Christmas Again is they thought I switched about a young girl, Roclasses or something,” wena, whose Christmas said Lopez, “and I still season has a big change couldn’t tell them where with her new blended I was because we were family. Reluctant to acnot really supposed to cept the new way of say much before it came Christmas, she ends up out.” reliving it over and over This year, shortly afagain until she sees the ter the movie was rebeauty in the new tradileased, Newsome had tions. an in-school premier for Coming from a similar Lopez. Pulling out the family herself, Lopez realred carpet, Newsome ly related to her character students watched the and used experience to movie all together in the dive into the character. school’s auditorium. “My parents are divorced, and I have a Christmas Again was released on Friyounger sister who is actually about her day, December 3 and can be streamed on (Rowena’s) age, so I definitely relate to Disney+ or watched on Disney Channel. my character,” said Lopez, “and I also am For more information, visit the Christpretty sarcastic in real life, so I related mas Again page at https://disneynow. to her a lot.” com/shows/christmas-again/season-1 or Lopez has been acting since she was stream it now on Disney+.
1/31/2022
The Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger (TBNEH) was founded in 2011 by 10 leaders from various direct service organizations, businesses and community circles who wanted to work collaboratively to help solve hunger in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas Counties. See Page 21.
1/31/2022
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 3
THE RECEPTION AT ARMATURE WORKS T&J PAINTING THANKS COMMUNITY KICKS OFF ‘YEAR OF WEDDINGS’ AS IT CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY Staff Report
By Kate Quesada
Coming up on artists, stationary and its third year, The gift providers, preferred Reception is a onecaterers, party and furof-a-kind wedding niture rentals and more. planning extravaExperience this exganza that should clusive event on Tuesnot be missed. day, January 11 from With 2022 being 5-8 p.m. in The Gathprojected to be the ering and its adjacent biggest year in the pre-function event spacwedding industry, es at Armature Works. The Reception will Tickets for The Receptake place at the tion are just $20 and perfect time. includes entry plus one “Over the past guest, a complimentary few months and glass of champagne as even weeks, we well as keepsake tote have seen a spike bag. Purchasers may in wedding and add additional guests special event at checkout for $10 a space requests,” person. Tickets do not said Ashley Mcinclude service fees. Chesney, director The Reception, a one-of-a-kind wedding planning Once a maintenance of events at Arma- extravaganza, will take place in Tampa on Tues- and storage warehouse day, January 11 from 5-8 p.m. ture Works. “We’re for TECO (Tampa Elecexcited to welcome couples back into our tric Company) streetcars and trolleys more spaces and look forward to being a part of than a century ago, Armature Works is now their big day.” a fully restored mixed-use building that The Reception is not your typical wedding breathes new life into the historic Tampa expo. Guests can expect live demonstra- Heights neighborhood. Armature Works intions from 45 vendors, two staged wedding cludes the Heights Public Market, a variety ceremonies, as well as a ‘Reception’ with of restaurants and bars, a 10,000-squarelive music, light bites and desserts in The foot gathering space, two pre-function Gathering, all aimed to help guests visualize event spaces totaling nearly 9,000 square their big day. feet, a 2,500-square-foot theater and ‘Bay Some of the best local wedding and re- 3,’ a 11,000-square-foot co-shared workception-related vendors in the Tampa Bay space. In addition, Armature Works hosts area will be on-site showcasing everything over 500 private events and programs that goes into your special day. Attendees more than 200 public events annually. will have the opportunity to interact with For more information or to purchase tickan array of local vendors, such as photog- ets to this event, visit www.armatureworks. raphers, florists, DJs, live musicians, cake com/the-reception.
Jennifer and Sherwin Williams, Tony Friedin addition to richsen celeworking hard to brated a special make a name for kind of anniT&J Painting in versary on Dethe community. cember 1. The “We are honcouple moved ored to serve to Florida a the SouthShore year ago with and Hillsborough their business, T&J Painting recently celebrated a year in the SouthShore County area of T&J Painting, Tampa Bay,” said community. a full-service Tony. “We absopainting company, and lutely love our community on November 30, they and enjoy having the privthanked the community ilege to do our small part for supporting them with to keep it beautiful, fresh an anniversary celebraand vibrant. We have met tion at Summerfield Golf so many wonderful people, Club in Riverview. whether that be customers, “My wife and I started vendors or business commuthis company as a means nity partners.” to better provide for our four young chilThe couple also gives back to the comdren,” said Tony. “We mean it when we say munity. Jennifer is a member of the that every job truly does matter.” Sumner High School Booster Club, the T&J Painting is licensed and insured, of- Riverview Woman’s Club, an ambassador fering commercial and residential painting to the Greater Riverview Chamber of Comalong with deck and fence staining, wood merce and a member of the Valrico Fishrot replacement and extensive repair ser- Hawk Chamber of Commerce. vices. “We also strive to give back to our com“T&J Painting strives to be an industry munity as much as we can,” said Tony. leader in providing a high level of quality Tony encourages residents to check out and customer service,” said Tony. “We un- the company’s Facebook page and website derstand that you have options in which for examples of current and past projects. company you choose to paint your home, “We put full effort in making sure that all but we feel very confident that we will be our clients are completely satisfied,” said the most qualified and professional paint Tony. “We have built a very strong reputacompany that you have potential to deal tion with our customers and in the paintwith.” ing industry.” Jennifer and Tony are proud to particVisit www.tandjpaintingfl.com or call ipate in every project the company takes 723-9124. Tony can be reached at tony@ on, using high-end brands exclusively from tandjpaintingfl.com.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
January 2022
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F SPORT ADDS PIZZAZZ TO LEXUS NX300H Leave it to Lexaudio, eco charge, us to shine in the outside temperacompact luxury ture, odometer and crossover segtire pressure readment. The add-on ings. Also standard of the F Sport are the dual auto Black Line to the AC, driver informaNX 300h makes tion center, power it even more fun adjustable heated/ drive, responding cooled front seats with quickness in and manual reany driving situcline/fold 60/40 ation while loadrear seat, leathLEXUS NX 300h (AWD) ed with luxury and tech er-wrapped steering wheel Tires: P225/60R18 goodies. Zero to 60 is an and shifter, eight-speaker Wheelbase: 104.7 inches impressive 9.1 seconds in premium sound and power Length: 182.3 inches Width: 73.6 inches this lively ride, which gets tilt/telescopic steering colHeight: 64.8 inches a standard blind spot monumn. Besides sport-tuned itor and rear cross-traffic Suspension: MacPherson strut suspension, the F Sport front, double wishbone rear alert for 2021. comes with aluminum pedSteering: electric power A 2.5-liter Atkinson als, a blue-stitched interior, Fuel capacity: 14.8 gallons four-cylinder engine that a heated steering wheel, Mileage: city 33, highway 30 cranks out 154 horsefront fog/cornering lights, a Weight: 4,180 pounds power at 5,700 rpm. The black headliner and more. Base price: $46,810 battery-powered electric Standard safety features Price as tested: $47,835 motor ups the total to 194 include dual front and side Website: www.lexus.com hp. It is mated to an ordiairbags, a side curtain airnary continuous variable bag, a driver knee airbag, a transmission, but drivers can pick the fol- front-passenger cushion airbag along with lowing modes: normal, eco and sport. During side-impact door beams, four-wheel antideceleration and braking, the vehicle uses lock brakes, electronic brake distribution regenerative decelerating to apply much of and brake assist, vehicle stability and tracthe wasted energy to recharge the hybrid tion control, a rearview camera, push-button battery. start, three-point seatbelts with pretensionThe familiar Lexus spindle grille with a ers and front and rear crumple zones. These stylish satin chrome trim is flanked by bi-LED are complemented by a pre-collision system headlights, while the blue tint in the emblem that detects pedestrians and bicyclists, lane and the penciled hybrid on the rear doors trace assist and departure alert and dynamic are a giveaway. Step into the well-lit and cruise control, all part of the no-cost Lexus airy cabin and you will quickly get cozy and Safety Sense. comfy in the plush semi-aniline leather seats. If you’re in the market for a compact luxA mouse-like, easy-to-use Remote Touch en- ury crossover with a forceful engine, decent ables the driver to toggle navigation, climate, gas mileage and plentiful creature comforts, audio and phone controls on the 8-inch touch the NX 300h fits the bill. The F Sport trim screen. A 4.2-inch TFT LCD screen displays factor adds even more thrill to the ride!
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
EVEY LOVEALL RECEIVES HER DREAM TO GO TO DISNEY WORLD FROM THE CHILDREN’S DREAM FUND By Lily Belcher Genevieve ‘Evey’ uled for March 15, Loveall, a student at 2020. The LoveFishHawk Creek Elealls planned to mentary School, was stay at Give Kids born with a congenital The World, a small heart defect 10 years village in Central ago. Although she was Florida for pediatborn with the condiric patients visittion that has given her ing Florida’s theme cerebral palsy, Evey parks. has learned to adapt to However, in her condition and is alMarch 2020, Disready showing her pasney World had sion for art and music. closed due to the “She’s just a hapcoronavirus, postpy kid, so things don’t poning the trip. really phase her. She They had reschedkind of goes about her uled once, but it daily life as anyone was cancelled else would. Obviously, Genevieve ‘Evey’ Loveall, a student at Fish- again. Finally, after there are challenges, Hawk Creek Elementary School, was born a year of waiting, but we don’t let them with a congenital heart defect 10 years ago. Loveall’s dream determine who she is She recently had her dream granted by the was scheduled Children’s Dream Fund. … it’s just a part of who for December 26, she is,” said Evey’s mother, Ellie Loveall. 2021. In December of 2019, Evey was nomiEvey has maintained her independence nated by a Christina Shreeve, the mother despite her condition with the help of the of one of Evey’s classmates, to receive a teachers at FishHawk Creek Elementary. dream from the Children’s Dream Fund. They have been flexible in accommodatThe Children’s Dream Fund is an or- ing Evey in activities by modifying the diganization that fulfills the wishes of rections and tasks to make them possible patients 3-21 years old with life-threat- for her. ening illnesses. The organization aims “The school has been amazing at helpto give young patients “a much-needed ing her,” said Loveall. “The teachers have bright spot in a child’s medical journey.” been really good at encouraging her inAfter the nomination, the Children’s dependence but making sure there is Dream Fund worked with the Loveall somebody to help her if she is getting family to plan the trip without putting frustrated.” too much of the planning on the LoveFor more information on the Children’s alls’ plate. Evey’s dream is to go to Disney Dream Fund or to donate, visit childrensWorld, which they had originally sched- dreamfund.org or call 727-896-6390.
Volume 21, Issue 1
HILLSBOROUGH BOCC SETS COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS By Brad Stager As the year 2022 kicks off, the Hillsborough County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) recently prepared for the upcoming year of governance by assigning members to the various boards, committees, councils and commissions that serve residents and businesses. Commissioner Kimberly Overman was named chair of the BOCC and Commissioner Mariella Smith is now the vice chair, while Commissioner Stacy White continues as chaplain. Outgoing BOCC Chair Pat Kemp thanked the other board members and county staff for their support during her tenure, during which the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic was a major issue. “Everyone in this organization, I think, has done incredible work that we need to be very, very proud of,” said Kemp. The assignments are as follows: Harry Cohen, District 1 - Hospital Authority, Value Adjustment Board, Transportation Planning Organization, Tampa Bay Water Board of Directors, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Port Authority. Ken Hagan, District 2 - Expressway Authority, Hospital Authority, Tampa Sports Authority. Gwen Myers, District 3 - CareerSource Tampa Bay, Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County, Florida State Fair Authority, Hillsborough Transit Authority, Juvenile Justice Board, Transportation Planning Organization.
Stacy White, District 4 - Agency on Bay Management, Aviation Authority, Hillsborough River Interlocal Planning Board, Tampa Bay Estuary Program Policy Board, Transportation Planning Organization (alternate). Mariella Smith, District 5 - Arts Council Division of Hillsborough County, Environmental Protection Commission (chair), Hillsborough Transit Authority, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council (alternate), Tampa Bay Water Board of Directors, Transportation Planning Organization, Florida Aquarium Board of Directors. Pat Kemp, District 6 - Environmental Protection Commission (vice chair), Hillsborough Transit Authority, Museum of Science and Industry, Southwest Florida Water Management District Liaison, Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority, Transportation Planning Organization, Election Canvassing Board. Kimberly Overman, District 7 - Affordable Housing Advisory Board, Commission on Human Trafficking, Department of Defense GTCOC-MacDill AFB Support Committee, Hillsborough Transit Authority, Public Safety Coordinating Council, Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corp, Tourist Development Council. At the conclusion of the organizational meeting, Overman anticipated the challenges ahead and expressed appreciation to the board members for their hard work. “I think we all have our work cut out for us over the next year, and thank you all very, very much for serving our citizens so well in Hillsborough County.”
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January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
LOCAL SOCCER TEAM PLAYS IN NATIONAL SHOWCASE By Kate Quesada
Page 7
PUBLIC LIBRARIES CELEBRATES 2 MILLION DIGITAL CHECKOUTS IN 2021 Staff Report
Residents checked out e-books from local libraries more than ever before in 2021. The Florida Hawks FC U13 Girls team, who play in the Girls Academy (GA) League through the IMG Ascender Affiliate program, headed to California last month to play in the Champions League.
A group of local soccer players recently had the chance to do what they love on the national stage. The Florida Hawks FC U13 Girls team, who play in the Girls Academy (GA) League through the IMG Ascender Affiliate program, headed to California last month to play in the Champions League. According to Coach Joe Savino, the girls, representing IMG, played three games during the showcase and won the first game 3-1 vs TSJ Virginia, won game two 7-0 vs SC del Sol Arizona and lost game three 3-0 vs Michigan Jaguars. “It was a tremendous event for the player and families as they got to participate with and see some of the best female soccer players and teams across the country in all age groups,” said Savino, a FishHawk resident who is also the club’s vice president of the board and competitive coordinator. The girls qualified to play in the showcase, and a follow-up event in Florida in March, due to their performance in league play and tournaments so far this year. “Both events are by scouted by over 100
college team coaches and U.S. national team representatives,” said Savino. Florida Hawks FC offers competitive soccer for boys and girls from 6 to 18 years of age and recreational teams from 4 to 11 years of age, with practices taking place at the FishHawk Sports Complex. There are also Tampa Area Recreational Soccer Association (TARSA) teams for players U11 to U19 and adult recreational programs for players 19 and older. The club started its affiliate program with IMG, which is based in Bradenton, last year. The program allows select competitive players to gain exposure to IMG Academy training and performance plans and participate in high level games. Through this affiliate program, the U13 girls are able to play in the GA League, which is Registration will begin soon for the winter TARSA, and recreational seasons and try-outs for the club’s competitive teams are scheduled for early May. For information on all these programs, visit www.floridahawksfc.com.
Residents have been reading digitally more than ever in the last year. Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative recently announced that it reached 2 million digital checkouts for the second year in a row. From January 1 to November 23, 2021, library customers borrowed two million e-books, audiobooks and digital magazines. Tampa-Hillsborough Public Libraries reached the milestone more quickly than it did in 2020, having already reached one million checkouts by June 15. Readers are turning to the library’s digital collection for their information and entertainment in part because of the ease and convenience of the libraries’ online platforms. Customers can access digital titles from the comfort of their homes through the Libby app and OverDrive. The public library system began offering digital magazines for the first time in 2021. While e-books and e-magazines are popular among library customers, e-books take the award for most downloaded item with over 28,000 e-books rented per week. For a complete list of library locations, holiday hours and information on how to apply for a library card, visit hcplc.org.
‘Top 5 Adult eBook Titles’ from January 1-November 23. 1. The Four Winds 2. The Midnight Library 3. A Time for Mercy 4. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue 5. The Last Thing He Told Me ‘Top 5 Adult eAudio Titles’ from Jan. 1, 2021-Nov. 23, 2021 1. A Promised Land 2. Greenlights 3. The Four Winds 4. The Midnight Library 5. The Duke and I: Bridgerton Series Book ‘Top 5 OverDrive Magazines’ in 2021 1. Us Weekly 2. HGTV Magazine 3. The Economist 4. Woman’s World 5. The New Yorker ‘Top 5 Young Adult Fiction Titles’ in 2021 1. Shadow and Bone 2. Midnight Sun 3. Six of Crows 4. A Court of Thorns and Roses 5. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FREEDOM ALLIANCE SURPASSES $20 MILLION IN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS TO CHILDREN OF MILITARY HEROES
Staff Report
Freedom Allicolleges and fourance, a military year institutions. support organiA Freedom Alzation, has now liance scholarship awarded more is awarded based than $20 million on the parent’s in college scholmilitary service arships to the and if one child in children of fallthe family is elien or wounded gible, siblings are military heroes likely to also qualin the 20 years ify if they choose since the terror- Freedom Alliance, a military support organization, has to continue their ist attacks on now awarded more than $20 million in college scholar- education after September 11, ships to the children of fallen or wounded military heroes high school. in the 20 years since the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The top five 2001. The scholarareas of study ships are provided to students who have a among our students are: nursing, psycholparent that was killed or permanently dis- ogy, biology, business and mechanical enabled in the service of our country. gineering. Scholarship recipients carry an “It’s not enough to simply mourn the average GPA of 3.21 out of 4.0, hail from death or injury of a service member,” ex- all 50 states and their parents have served plained Freedom Alliance President Tom in each branch of the armed forces as well Kilgannon. “A grateful nation must also as fought in various campaigns, including care for the children of its fallen and Afghanistan, Iraq, the Persian Gulf War, wounded heroes and help them achieve Beirut, Mogadishu and others. their dreams. Our team at Freedom AlliFreedom Alliance was founded by Lt. ance has humbly accepted that responsi- Col. Oliver North, USMC (Ret.), who served bility, and in doing so, our own lives—and for 22 years and was decorated with the the lives of our supporters—have been Silver Star Medal, Bronze Star Medal for greatly enriched by those we serve.” valor and two Purple Hearts for wounds Freedom Alliance has experienced tre- in combat. In addition to providing more mendous growth in its scholarship pro- than $20 million in college scholarships, gram. At the time of the 9/11 attacks, Free- Freedom Alliance has helped thousands dom Alliance had awarded scholarships of injured veterans with recreational reto 12 students for a total of $79,000. In habilitation, care packages, mortgage-free 2021, 583 students received scholarships homes, all-terrain wheelchairs, new vehitotaling $2.3 million, and over the last 20 cles and more. years, Freedom Alliance has helped more Learn more about Freedom Alliance than 2,000 individual students complete at freedomalliance.org or facebook.com/ their studies at trade schools, community FreedomAlliance.
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Volume 21, Issue 1
LOCAL LEADERS MEET TO DISCUSS SCHOOLS
Staff Report
Over 400 school board for our members members, superintenand district staff to dents and education leadinteract, collaborate ers attended the 76th anand network to disnual FSBA/FADSS Joint cuss and create soluConference for a week of tions to the many leadership development, education issues networking and training. that are prevalent in This event is a joint planour local, state and ning effort of the Florida national dialogue,” School Boards Associacommented FSBA tion (FSBA) and Florida Executive Director Association of District Andrea Messina. School Superintendents “This event provided (FADSS), as well as the new inspiration for Florida Education Legschool board memislative Liaisons (FELL), bers and superintenFlorida Education Risk dents to continue to Management Associalead, ensuring their tion (FERMA), Florida Melissa Snively, a Hillsborough County public schools reflect School Boards Attorney School Board Member representing east their community’s Association (FSBAA) and and south county communities, is a mem- priorities.” ber of the FSBA Board of Directors. the Sunshine State School “As a member of Public Relations Association (SUNSPRA). the FSBA board of directors, it was my Speakers included award-winning mo- pleasure to attend and engage with so tivational speaker and author Simon many educational leaders across the Bailey, 2022 Florida Teacher of the Year state. We had the opportunity to enhance Sarah Painter and award-winning doc- our governance skills as well as learn umentary filmmaker and speaker Brett some best practices from many of our Culp. The conference also featured three colleagues,” said Melissa Snively, a Hillseparate panel discussions with superin- sborough County School Board member tendents, principals, assistant principals representing east and south county comand student leaders. These panels includ- munities. ed important conversations about how The mission of FSBA is to increase stuall stakeholders can work together to im- dent achievement through the developprove student achievement. In addition to ment of effective school board leadership keynote speakers and breakout sessions, and advocacy for public education. Asthe associations also conducted annual sociation members will next convene in business meetings. January for the Annual Day in the Legis“After the last year and a half of limited lature, a Tallahassee advocacy event. physical interaction due to COVID-19, it is To learn more, visit www.hillsboroughclear that it is more important than ever schools.org.
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January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FISHHAWK RESIDENT PUBLISHES SEVENTH NOVEL
FISHHAWK STRONG’S SOFTBALL TEAM WINS THIRD CONSECUTIVE CHAMPIONSHIP By Lily Belcher
By Kate Quesada
Fans of adult fiction are ing, to say the in for a treat thanks to a least,” she said. local author. FishHawk res“I drew upon a ident and Randall Middle lot of personal School teacher Maria DeViexperiences and vo’s new novel Witch of the blended it with Black Circle is available for what was going e-book preorder this month. on culturally at “For as long as I can rethat time. The member, I always wanted tagline isn’t just to be an author,” said Defor shock value.” Vivo, who has lived in FishIn addition to Hawk since 2005. “From writing, DeViearly on, I knew my imagivo teaches Ennation was just too large to glish Language be contained, and one way Arts (ELA) and or another, it needed to be journalism at unleashed on the world.” Randall Middle DeVivo, who has pubSchool but said lished seven novels so far this book is not Maria DeVivo’s seventh novel, Witch of the and is on schedule to have for her students Black Circle, is available for preorder. five releases this year, deto read. scribed the latest true adult “This book is for horror. anyone who likes hor“I’ve always written dark ror and 80s nostalgia, subject matter—I live in that doesn’t have a weak strange, gothic world in my stomach and isn’t shy head—but this is my first from adult content,” true adult horror novel,” she she said. “This one is explained. “There are no holds definitely 18-plus.” barred with this one. Nothing Witch of the Black is off limits. My other books Circle is available for are pretty tame compared to e-book preorder and this.” will be released on According to DeVivo, Witch Monday, March 7. This of the Black Circle a story month, DeVivo will atabout a girl whose mother has tend Central Florida always told her she was cursed Comic Con in Lakeland by a witch, is inspired by true on Saturday and Sunevents. day, January 15 and 16 and will speak on “Growing up on Long Island, NY in the a panel on writing. To learn more about 1980s and living through the time known her books and appearances, visit www. as the Satanic Panic Era was interest- mariadevivo.com.
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FishHawk Strong’s softball team claimed their third consecutive championship title in a 14-8 win in December.
On December 11, FishHawk Strong’s softball team won their third consecutive FishHawk Adult Softball League Championship in a 14-8 victory over Starling. The December championship ended the fall season, which runs from August to December, after a six-team playoff race between FishHawk neighborhood teams. The game started out with Starling taking an early 6-2 lead in the first inning. FishHawk Strong’s pitching, specifically Jason Nordberg, managed to hold the Starling offense to just two more runs after the first inning while their offense came to life. In the next three innings, FishHawk Strong would put up six runs, led by Jeff Parker, Chris Bauer and Alex Torres. They scored six more in the last half of the game, making the final score 14-8. FishHawk Strong, previously known as Tern Wood Softball, joined the FishHawk Adult Softball League in 2012. “It is a resident run amenity in FishHawk Ranch,” explained Team Captain and Coach Bob Abruzzese. “It started with four teams. They would play two games and then bring food and beverages and hang out together. This was a
great way to meet the neighbors.” The softball league was started in 1998 as a way for FishHawk community members to get to know their neighbors and has expanded to eight teams since, and, as a whole, the league has raised over $100,000 for families and charities. Games are scheduled for every other Saturday, except for holidays, and practice schedules are determined by each team. FishHawk Strong’s team has a lineup of 12 players that carried them to the fall championship. “We don’t have a true MVP; almost every week, we have different players contributing to our wins,” said Abruzzese. “Jeff Parker is the closest we have to an MVP. Jeff has great knowledge of the game and knows the players from other teams. He is very helpful in positioning our defense and a great hitter.” FishHawk Strong is always looking for new players that are 18 or older and residents of FishHawk Ranch Proper. To join or for more information, visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/fishhawksoftball or contact Bob Abruzzese at fhstrongsoftball@yahoo.com.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
RANDALL STUDENT EARNS THE HIGHEST GIRL SCOUT AWARD AS CADETTE By Makenzie Atkins The highest award a can help make a Cadette-level Girl Scout difference. can earn and the sec“I learned a lot ond highest award over of leadership skills the entire Girl Scout like project manorganization is the Silagement and how ver Award. A local Girl to approach orScout, Sierra Farrell, ganizations in my who is only 11 years old, community,” said worked with the North Farrell, “and a projFlorida Wildlife Center ect I thought was in order to create awareimpossible in the ness about human imbeginning turned pact on wildlife to earn out to be possible this amazing award. when I kept at it.” Farrell titled her projThe Silver Award ect ‘Wildlife Education is the highest Sensation’ and worked award in the Cawith the North Florida dette level for girls Wildlife Center in Lamin grades seven ont to create an eightthrough eight. Only page booklet for kids Sierra Farrell worked alongside Ryan Reines, about 10 percent of with games and puzzles Girl Scouts achieve founder and director of the North Florida to enhance what they Wildlife Center, in order to create a fun and the Silver Award, educational booklet for kids who visit. would be learning when and the project is they visit the center. a big undertaking. First, the girls must On top of this, Farrell also had a free na- complete the Cadette Leadership Journey, tional event for kids to submit original art which is an extended engagement with a pieces featuring wild animals along with topic for the Take Action project to make an educational poster featuring the ani- the world a better place. After this, the mal’s category on the conservation/extinc- Girl Scout must complete at least 50 projtion scale, threats to the animal and what ect hours engaging with organizations in humans can do to help. Kids from around order to identify a problem or need in the the country submitted pieces and were community and then find the cause and a featured on Farrell’s Wildlife Education lasting solution. The Girl Scout then impleSensation Facebook page. ments that solution to create a sustainable On her Facebook page, Farrell shares change while educating others and inspirwhat she has learned by posting tips to ing them to be a part of the change. help families live more sustainably and to After completing the project, Farrell help us to be aware of the impact we have found that, even as a kid, she truly can on wildlife and endangered species so we make a difference in her community.
Volume 21, Issue 1
VALRICO COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO HELP QUEENA
By Libby Hopkins
Former Senator Ronda Storms recently held an event in Valrico to benefit Queena Nguyen, who was brutally attacked at the Bloomingdale Library in 2008.
Queena Nguyen, who was brutally attacked at the Bloomingdale Library in 2008, is considered to be a champion in the Brandon community, and recently residents came together yet again to help support her. “I remember, in 2011, Queena was set to lose the majority of her benefits on her 21st birthday when she aged out of child Medicaid services,” said Queena’s mother, Vanna Nguyen. “Former Senator Ronda Storms worked tirelessly on behalf of Queena, writing countless letters and having meetings with state agencies. Thank God for the help of Senator Rhonda Storms, Queena could be enrolled in the Aged and Disabled Adult Medicaid Waiver Program. So, she has been my hero and role model since then.” Storms recently held a fundraiser for Queena and her family at Gather & Seek Vintique in Valrico. “When Queena’s book first came out, I was hesitant to read it,” Storms said. “When I finally did, I was so inspired by the book, it was on my heart to do something, yet again
for Vanna and Queena.” Storms’ son, Gideon, also was curious about Queena’s book, The Life She Once Knew, as well. “When I told him what it was about and he read, he said we should do something for Queena,” Storms said. “I knew then that we needed to do something since the book inspired my son and I.” Storms contacted Gather & Seek Vintique’s Alicia Bingham, who agreed to host the book signing fundraiser for Queena and Vanna. “The host committee for this event approached several artists in the community, who donated art for the event,” Vanna said. “This was a wonderful event and the event raised $3,195, which has been a blessing for Queena. We are so thankful for Rhonda and everyone who came together for this event.” Vanna truly believes these community events help Queena in more ways than just financially. “The community comes together to help lift our spirit and continues to support Queena towards her recovery,” Vanna said. “I feel how much the Lord loves Queena and sees our family through the community. We feel strongly that it was God’s intention to encourage us and support our family through the love of our community.” To learn more about Queena’s book or to purchase a copy of it, visit Queena’s website at www.joinqueena.com.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
January 2022
Page 11
LOCAL MARCHING BAND TAMPA BAY HIRES HOSTS MAKES CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS GRADUATION EVENT FOR By Ariana Pedraza YOUNG ADULTS By Kathy L. Collins and color guard won best in Tampa Bay Hires, a program affiliated with CareerSource Tampa Bay, offers a GED program for young adults ages 16 to 24. On December 10, Tampa Bay Hires’ youth program hosted its first graduation event for GED completers. This event honors students who have completed their GED program through Tampa Bay Hire and earned their diplomas. “We are excited to acknowledge young adults who have accomplished this huge milestone,” said CareerSource Tampa Bay CEO John Flanagan. “We want to host this event to showcase the successes of our young participants in the Tampa Bay Hires program,” added Flanagan. “GED completers typically do not have the opportunity to walk across the stage, and we are excited to change that for the students that worked so hard in our program to complete and receive their diplomas,” said Jennifer Wilson, CareerSource Tampa Bay youth program director. “The Career Coaches of the CareerSource Tampa Bay program are passionate about working with these young adults, and any of their milestones or achievements is one for us. We are so proud of them and look forward to guiding them to their next ac-
complishment,” added Wilson. CareerSource Tampa Bay works with businesses and candidates to leverage their training, retraining and competitive opportunities in the workforce. CareerSource Tampa Bay provided 173,319 services to 37,054 active Wagner-Peyser individuals during the program year 2019-2020. CareerSource Tampa Bay has five career centers, and it is the single largest source of job candidates in the region, from entry-level to executive-level candidates. It works closely with all veterans. Businesses can access CareerSource’s wide range of services that include recruiting, training for new and existing employees, targeted hiring events and retention support strategies. All resources and services are provided at no cost to both businesses and job candidates. If you or someone you know is 16 to 24 years of age and needs assistance with attaining their GED and or going back to school, Tampa Bay Hires can get them on the right career pathway with tuition assistance, career coaching and guidance. To get started, visit https://hires.careersourcetampabay.com/ and complete the program pre-screen.
class at one competition and two, respectively, and the percussion dominating their class as they took best percussion in their class at every single competition on the calendar. The Newsome Band was one of six other high schools to qualify for finals in their class, and they placed sixth overall out of 11 in total. Emily Finch, junior and drum major, said, “This year, we startNewsome drum major Chase Ballweg shows the judges the ed with more than half the band band is ready. barely knowing how to play their This Noveminstruments ber, the Newsome and no clue how Highschool Wolfto march, but pack Marching they had drive. Band attended the Watching evFlorida Marching eryone work so Band State Chamhard especially pionship under the that last month direction of new was something Band Director Kevspecial, and in Sayers. After it was such a nearly five months great feeling. of hard work, the band made it to the fiWe pushed, made finals and in that final nals for the first time in six years. run got to show everyone who Newsome Clarinet section leader Reese Lesh exMarching Band is.” pressed, “Making finals was a really great The band and Sayers are grateful to the way to end my senior year of marching parents and staff that helped the band get band and I’m so thankful to have been able to where it is. to experience it.” “The fact that we made finals for the Recovering from a year-and-a-half-long first time in over six years was a huge acbreak due to the pandemic, the band percomplishment for students, staff and parsevered, beating obstacles like a band dients. I hope we can continue that upwards rector change and having over half of the trajectory.” band never marching a full competition For more information, visit http://newseason before. However, over the course someband.com/ or follow newsomewolfof their five-month season, the band propackband and nhs.color.guard on Instagressed immensely, as their woodwinds gram.
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Page 12
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FISHHAWK SUPPORTS NAVY SEAL BRIAN BOURGEOIS’ FAMILY FOLLOWING TRAGIC LOSS
By Lily Belcher
Following the Command] tragic death and yet he still of Navy SEAL made time for and former his wife and FishHawk fahis kids and ther of five Brimade time for an Bourgeois, his communiFishHawk famty,” said Mcilies and Navy Millin. Football BrothMcMillin erhood are raisshared that ing money to when one of support BourBourgeois’ geois’ family. neighbors was Bourgeois was ill, he visited an active mem- Brian Bourgeois was dedicated to his family, community the family and and country while serving as a Navy SEAL. ber of the Fishhelped them Hawk community, involved with his kids’ with some home repairs, something Mcsports teams and supported his wife, Millin said was not surprising coming Megan, in her involvement with Seeds of from Bourgeois, who often helped his Hope. neighbors and the FishHawk community. “He touched everyone that he could “This guy was just a different guy … touch and everyone that came to the me- there’s only a few SEAL teams in the morial service had a story about Brian,” world and he went to Virginia Beach not said Brian McMillin, who was a friend of knowing if they would name him a team Bourgeois. “He was so close to so many commander, and they did. Up there, he people.” commanded almost 250 people [in] the While his dedication to his family and last year that he took command.” community was seen through his involveNavy Football Brotherhood reached ment in FishHawk sports, Bourgeois’ out to McMillin to organize a donation dedication to his country was evident in for Bourgeois’ family following his death his work with the Navy in his 20 years during a training exercise. Bourgeois had of service. Bourgeois applied to the Na- recently attended its alumni game in the val Academy and played for its football fall and maintained a close relationship team for four years. He then commis- with his former teammates. sioned as an officer in the Navy before “Ultimately,” said McMillin, “all these applying to Navy SEAL school in Virgin- people, and all these donations, just want ia. Bourgeois was named Commanding to make it to where Megan … is just able Officer of SEAL Team Eight, responsible to continue what they knew as normal.” for leading around 250 SEALs. To donate to help Bourgeois’ family, “This guy had the busiest job out of visit Navy Football Brotherhood’s Face[the United States Special Operations book page @NavyFootballBrotherhood.
Volume 21, Issue 1
MISSY LENNARD NAMED PRINCIPAL AT NEW WATERSET PREK-8 SCHOOL
By Kate Quesada
recently, she was the opening principal at Stowers Elementary School in Lithia. “This is the third school I have been a part of opening as an admin,” she explained. “It has been an extreme honor and privilege to serve the FishHawk families at Stowers. We have built many wonderful traditions together. I am very proud of the Cowboys, Missy Lennard, a Riverview resident and daughter of former but I am thrilled to have the Hillsborough County Superintendent of Schools Earl Lennard, was named principal of the new Apollo Beach pre-K-8 opportunity to take on this new role.” school located in the Waterset community last month. The yet unnamed A familiar name will be taking Waterset school, the helm at the new school openwhich will be home ing in Apollo Beach’s Waterset to 1,600 students, is community next fall. Missy Lena Hillsborough Counnard, a Riverview resident and ty International Bacdaughter of former Hillsborough calaureate program County Superintendent of Schools magnet that will Dr. Earl J. Lennard, was named infuse science, techprincipal of the new PK-8 school nology, engineering, last month. arts and mathematMissy, who has lived and ics with an internaworked in Southeastern Hillsbortional-minded foough County her whole career, cus. This is the first was honored to be chosen to open magnet elementary the new SouthShore school. school in the South“I am thrilled to be returning to Shore area and the South Hillsborough County,” said Missy, who first pre-K-8 school in Southeastern Hillsborattended Gibsonton Elementary, Eisenhower ough County. Middle and East Bay High Schools herself. “I Students in grades pre-K through eighth am looking forward to making connections can apply to attend the school via the Choice that will support, enhance and engage the Program through Saturday, December 11. community in a variety of ways.” Missy will continue on at Stowers as prinMissy attended the University of Central cipal until February, 2022, when she will Florida for undergrad and the University move to the new school while making sure of South Florida for a master’s degree and there is a smooth transition at both locations. postgraduate work and has worked as a The school s located at 5995 Covington teacher, reading specialist, assistant princi- Gardens Dr., call 272-4692. To learn more pal and principal at local schools, including about Hillsborough County’s magnet schools, Gibsonton and Symmes Elementaries. Most visit www.hillsboroughschools.org/magnet.
January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
ALAFIA DRIVING ACADEMY PREPARES NEW DRIVERS FOR THE ROAD
SIGN GYPSIES OF RIVERVIEW PUTS FUN MESSAGES IN YARDS
By Taylor Wells
By Libby Hopkins
much more. Plus, they can prepare you for the DMV driving test and help you pass it easily. “I like to think that we set the standard for driving schools. New, high-end, maintained cars. Internal and external dash cams, GPS tracks of where we went, after-lessons reports to the parents after every trip. Back when we started, none of the other schools did any of that. I’m not sure what the other schools cost these days, but I know we cost. I like to think that the parents get their money’s worth when they book Brandon Anderson, a driving instructor with Alafia with us,” said Founder and Owner Cole Driving Academy, standing next to his white 2019 Dolmseth. Mazda CX-5. “CommunicaFor those who are tion is key; we seeking professionare on time. If al driving instructors we are runthat can come to you, they’d have a hard ning late, we’ll let you know. If you call us time finding ones better than Alafia Driv- and we can’t get to the phone, we will call ing Academy. The local company has been you back. If you have questions, I’ll answer around since 2013 and provides services them the best I can—or find out for you.” from Sun City Center up to Mango, coverLessons come in several packages and ing Ruskin, Apollo Beach, Riverview, Fish- can be personalized to what you need. The Hawk, Valrico, Brandon, Western Plant academy recommends a 10-hour package, City, Dover and Seffner. but you can also get more lessons, includTelling from personal experience, the ing its 20-hour package. Plus, it has lessons instructors are top-notch. Even on the for manual transmission/stick driving, a first lesson while driving in the rain, the 3-in-3 driver course for the three-crashesinstructor had no issue providing instruc- in-three-years law and extra lessons even tion. They’ll calmly communicate what you after getting your license. should be doing, let you know what you’re Alafia Driving Academy offers free pickdoing well, explain how to improve and up at homes in its service area. It is also cover all the bases so that you have a solid looking for new instructors; if you want to grasp on safe driving in no time. teach driving and want a fairly flexible job, Things that the instructors will do in- be sure to contact the academy. clude starting by practicing the basics in Visit www.alafiadrivingacademy.com or a neighborhood and later driving on back www.linkedin.com/company/alafia-drivroads and highways, going for longer dis- ing-academy, email info@alafiadrivingtances in traffic, changing lanes, doing academy.com, or @AlafiaDrivingAcademy U-turns, parking to the left and right and or call 438-9712.
Did you ever want our corporate to surprise a friend office as well or loved one for as our own detheir birthday or sign style. Our anniversary? What signs are differif they had a huge ent from all the accomplishment rest, and that’s in life, like a gradwhat sets apart uation for medical from other sign school or the birth companies.” of a child? A yard The couple sign letting the are also strong community know supporters of that your loved one Sign Gypsies of Riverview offers some fun and creative signs keeping things you’re celebrating something. It has three or friend had some- to let everyone know local and giving customized greeting packages. thing to celebrate back to their would be the way to go. community. “We love supporting other loSign Gypsies of Riverview offers some cal businesses in the area and enjoy bringfun and creative signs to let everyone ing smiles to many business owners in the know you’re celebrating something. “Sign area as well as teachers and students in Gypsies Riverview offers three custom- our local schools,” David said. “We have ized greeting packages,” said Owner David built many great relationships with schools Lurz. “You may choose our mini, signature and the wonderful people that live in this or deluxe package for your celebration.” area. We also enjoy donating signs as raffle David and his wife, Louisa Lurz, live in prizes to different organizations trying to Valrico and have two girls. “My wife is a raise money for worthy causes.” kindergarten teacher at Cimino ElementaDavid and his wife love bringing smiles ry and has been teaching 26 years,” David to their customers too. “What we like most said. “I am a proud Air Force veteran and about what we do is how much happiness am currently devoting all of my time to and joy it brings to people of all ages,” Dagrowing this business that I am very pas- vid said. “It fills our hearts with happiness sionate about.” when we hear from our customers that The couple bought the business a little the person receiving the sign literally cried over two years ago. “We bought Sign Gyp- tears of joy or receive videos of children sies Riverview from a lovely family in Fish- seeing the sign for the first time and are Hawk in February of 2019, so we have been screaming with excitement. It makes all around for a while now,” David said. “It was the long hours we put in this business well truly a blessing. Our sign company is dif- worth it.” ferent from other sign companies because If you would like to learn more about we were the first one in this area. We are Sign Gypsies or if you’d like to surprise unique because our graphics are different someone with a yard sign, you can visit from other companies’ graphics because Sign Gypsies’ website at www.signgypwe have our own designer and printer in siesriverview.com or call 530-9618.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
January 2022
Fishing in Tampa their winter Bay right now can be haunts; howfun but annoying with ever, when the the low tides and wind typical seaeffect. Understanding sonal winter the weather and the weather presinfluence it has on the ents itself, we tides is paramount to should see the a productive and great trout start to fishing trip. The falling accumulate tide and heavy north in the resiwind will create sigdential canals nificantly lower tides and potholes than anticipated from Mike Gigante and his wife with a nice snook double. of Cockroach the tide charts. Please Bay. be even more attentive A fan favorite this to your surrounding time of year is the weather patterns when bountiful sheepsusing your tide charts. head. These fish will Warning, you might get be coming in large stuck during extremely quantities and imlow tides. pressive sizes for a Despite the weather great hook-it-andconditions as they are, cook-it at your local the fishing has been participating restaugreat. Bait like greenrants and or in your Anne Caruso with a nice snook. backs are starting to own kitchen. These populate at the towers. Manage your fish are best caught on 1/0 hooks with tides when throwing cast nets around the a quarter-ounce weight; make sure to towers or you’ll be out a net or two. To have enough to steady your lines and that be successful with your cast net throws, you’re still able to feel the bite. Baiting is chum significantly upstream from the best with shrimp or fiddler crabs. tower and stay aware of your net drift to Redfish are elusive but ever-present. draw the bait away from the tower. Chugging and plugging the mangrove So now let’s get some fishing done. lines during the higher tides with greenSnook are in surplus in the cuts in Cock- backs, shrimp or cut pinfish could yield roach Bay, Little Manatee River, Bishop you a fine, impressive catch this time of Harbor and other tributaries that feed year. When you find them, stay on them … into Tampa Bay. As of mid-December, cold and do not tell anyone about where these weather patterns have not yet presented beauties reside in our incredible Tampa themselves to push the trout back into Bay Estuary.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HEATH WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC TREATS CLIENTS LIKE FAMILY
By Tatiana Ortiz
For more than 20 planning, education years, Heath Wealth planning, tax planManagement, LLC, loning and much more. cated in Brandon, has An array of products helped provide famican also be found lies the opportunity to here, such as bonds, make smart financial stocks, life insurance, decisions to achieve annuities and more. their most important Heath Wealth Mangoals financially. In adagement, LLC’s goal dition, Health Wealth would be to provide Management, LLC also superior client sercontinues to partner vice, sound investwith its clients to help ment and wealth adachieve these goals vice. with a personalized For example, Heath strategy utilizing its mentioned that established process Elijah Heath, president of Heath Wealth Man- many investors that the company agement, LLC and an LPL financial planner. make a New Year’s has refined over commitment the years. to get their fiIn August nances in order 2019, Heath or to set finanWealth Mancial goals for agement, LLC the year and became estabso forth can relished. Elijah Heath, who is the president ceive a second opinion at Heath Wealth of Heath Wealth Management, LLC and Management, LLC at no charge. To add, a LPL financial planner, had been serv- Heath also stated that people do have a ing his clients since 1999, which includes short period if they decide to contribute 15 years at Edward Jones. The focus of for the 2021 tax year before one loses the Heath Wealth Management, LLC would ability to do that, in reference to those inbe to provide financial advice to the quiring if they should contribute to their Greater Tampa Bay region with a special IRA or Roth IRA. This is a complimentary passion for the residents of the Valrico consultation as well. and FishHawk communities. “All in all, if someone has recently reHeath explained why he founded Heath tired or considering it, they should take Wealth Management, LLC. advantage of our complimentary consul“I saw a need within the community tation,” Heath said. that I could fill,” Heath said. For more information, visit https:// The types of services offered here in- www.heathwealth.com. It is located at clude financial planning, wealth man- 620 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. agement, estate planning, retirement Call 556-7171.
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Volume 21, Issue 1
CHICK-FIL-A OPENS FIRST PLANT CITY RESTAURANT WITH LOCAL HERO PRIZES AND $25,000 DONATION TO FEEDING AMERICA
Staff Report
A new Chickher new role as fil-A® restauthe operator of rant is open for Chick-fil-A Plant business in Plant City. Alongside City with local her family, who resident Dawn will help support Redmon as the restaurant operindependent franations, Redmon chised owner/opis excited to call erator. Plant City her new Redmon will home and make a be responsible lasting impact in for all day-to-day the community. activities of the “ Th ro u g h o u t business, includmy life, mentoring ing employing youth has always approximately been my passion,” 160 full and partsaid Redmon. time team mem- Chick-fil-A Plant City opened on December 2 at 1101 “With the openGoldfinch Dr., off of Thonotosassa Rd. bers, cultivating ing of Chick-fil-A relationships with local organizations and Plant City, I look forward to developing neighboring businesses and serving guests. and encouraging my team members. As a Chick-fil-A Plant City is located at 1101 local business owner, I am humbled by the Goldfinch Dr., off of Thonotosassa Rd., and opportunity to show care for our neighbors will be open from 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Mon- and serve our guests great-tasting food day through Saturday. with Chick-fil-A’s signature hospitality.” A Florida native, Redmon grew up in In place of the traditional Chick-fil-A First Mulberry, just down the road from her new 100® grand opening celebration, Chick-fil-A restaurant in Plant City. After graduating Plant City surprised 100 local heroes makfrom Nova Southeastern College, she began ing an impact in Hillsborough County with teaching middle school while supporting a free Chick-fil-A for a year. Additionally, in local Chick-fil-A restaurant with its mar- honor of the new restaurant opening, Chickketing efforts. Inspired by the restaurant’s fil-A donated $25,000 to Feeding America. welcoming atmosphere, Redmon started The funds will be distributed to partners working nights as a part-time team mem- within the Greater Tampa area to aid in the ber and eventually left teaching to pursue a fight against hunger. career with Chick-fil-A. She quickly rose to For more information about Chick-fil-A, leadership positions within the restaurant visit www.chick-fil-a.com. and was selected to become the operator For the latest news and updates on of Chick-fil-A Westfield Brandon in 2016. Chick-fil-A Plant City, visit the Chick-fil-A After serving the Brandon community for Plant City on its Facebook page @Chickfifive years, she is thrilled to transition into lAPlantCity.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
January 2022
Page 17
AWARD-WINNING CHRISTIAN MUSIC AT THE 2022 STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL By Kelly Wise Valdes with his blend of Southern rock, country and faith-filled songwriting, which quickly awarded him his first GRAMMY Award® with his debut album, 2017’s Chain Breaker. With two additional GRAMMY nods among numerous other accolades, he recently released his new album, aptly titled Rescue Story. Daigle will be performing on Saturday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m. Williams is scheduled to perform on Tuesday March 8 at 7:30 p.m. To purchase tickets and see the full list of entertainers, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the Amscot Main Ticket Office, located at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City, or by calling 754-1996.
The 87th annual Florida Strawtian parents in berry Festival will take place for the church and 11 days from Thursday, March 3 in a loving comthrough Sunday, March 13. The munity but was festival, which is ranked as the seduced away 28th top fair in North America, is by the illusion not only known for its strawberry of rock stardom, shortcakes, carnival games, youth and the drugs livestock shows, food vendors and thrilling midway rides, but also it’s legendary for hosting big name musical artists and entertainment. The event typically sees more than 500,000 visitors each year. Two major Christian artists will GRAMMY Award-winning and chart-topping Christian music artists Laube performing at this year’s festival: ren Daigle and Zach Williams are scheduled to perform at the 2022 Florida Strawberry Festival. Lauren Daigle and Zach Williams. Daigle is a two-time GRAMMY, sev- continents. This is Daigle’s first time perform- and alcohol that en-time Billboard Music Award and four-time American Music Award ing at the Strawberry Festival, and so often accomwinner. Her platinum debut album, she’s excited about the opportuni- pany that lifeHow Can It Be, produced three num- ty and encourages concertgoers to style. ber one songs, but it was her release “bring their dancing shoes.” Now, the Nash“Performing is one of my favorite of Look Up Child, her second consecville-based artutive platinum album, that revealed things about music,” said Daigle. ist is a renewed Daigle as one of the most impressive “Looking out every night and seeing man. He’s a husvocalists of our time. Look Up Child, people sing along brings a feeling of band, a father which earned Daigle her second joy that doesn’t just stop at me. It and has also become one of ChrisGRAMMY Award, featuring her hit connects with everyone around the tian country music’s leading artists song “You Say,” is the longest-run- room, and I think that is something and songwriters by carving a niche ning number one song to appear on I will never take for granted. It is such a blessing to be able to play any weekly Billboard chart. Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes Daigle’s ability to connect with her music with people I love to dearly, it audiences has been well document- feels like a family reunion every time NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in ed. It’s helped make her the fast- we take the stage.” business under the fictitious name of Progress Village Apartments Christian artist Zach Williams is est-selling new artist of her genre located at 6101 Innovation Way, in Hillsborough County, in the City over the past decade and given her an award-winning and chart-topping of Tampa, Florida, 33619 intends to register the said name with the soulful, authentic, vocal power a singer and songwriter who is also Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, worldwide audience. She’s amassed performing at the Strawberry FestiFlorida. a billion worldwide streams and val. His background inspires many of Dated at Valrico, Florida, this 1st day of January, 2022 sold-out headline shows on three his songs—he was raised by Chris-
FINANCIAL FOCUS DON’T FALL VICTIM TO TAX SCAMS It’s that time of year, when we gather our W-2s, 1099s and all the other forms and documents we need to file our taxes. However, it’s also busy season for tax scammers. How can you avoid being scammed? Your chief defense, of course, is to recognize a scam. Here are some of the most common ones: • Tax-related identity theft – Some thieves might try to steal your personal information and file a tax return in your name, hoping to claim your refund. Always guard your personal data, especially your Social Security number (SSN). You can also apply to the IRS for an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN). To succeed in their efforts, identity thieves would have to know your unique IP PIN in addition to your SSN and other information. And watch for signs that your identity has been compromised, such as the IRS rejecting your online return, saying that a tax return associated with your SSN has already been filed. If this happens, you can file IRS Form 14039 – Identity Theft Affidavit. • “Ghost” tax preparers – These individuals aren’t supernatural, but their actions can be pretty scary. A ghost preparer may finish your tax return but won’t sign it or provide a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PITN). This is a huge red flag, possibly indicating any number of bad actions, such as using fake information to generate a larger refund, and then charging you a fee based on that refund, or even worse, outright stealing the fee you’ve paid and then disappearing. Don’t sign your return until your preparer has also signed it and included their PTIN. And check your own return to make sure everything seems correct. To find a reputable tax preparer, ask your friends and relatives for referrals.
• “Phishing” emails claiming to be from IRS – You might receive emails that claim to be from the IRS but that come from scammers. These “phishing” emails might contain messages saying, “Your account or tax return is locked or restricted,” or, “You’re eligible to receive a tax refund.” Or the subject line of the email might contain a phrase such as “Automatic Income Tax Reminder” or “Electronic Tax Return Reminder.” These emails may contain links to a website that appears to be that of the IRS, but if you follow these links, you will be asked to open files that contain malware, which could give the scammer remote access to your computer and your personal information. But the IRS does not send unsolicited emails to taxpayers, it won’t discuss tax account information with you via email, and it won’t use emails to solicit sensitive financial and personal information. • Threatening phone calls – Tax scammers may call you, posing as IRS employees and demanding payment for back taxes, penalties or fees that you don’t owe. In reality, the IRS won’t call you if you owe taxes without first sending you a bill in the mail. Furthermore, the IRS will neither require that you pay your taxes a certain way, such as with a prepaid debit card, nor ask for your credit or debit card numbers over the phone. It’s unfortunate that tax scammers are hard at work, but by staying vigilant and getting professional help if you need it, you can help protect yourself from being scammed – this year and every year. 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.
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Page 18
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition before they may register.
Art Programs, Weight Loss Challenge, Nashville Duo Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
Congratulations To FishHawk Youth Baseball
Congratulations to the 12U FishHawk Cooperstown 2022 and 10U Navy teams for their championship wins in the West Florida Advanced Baseball League. The championship weekend was held at the FishHawk Sports Complex in early December. The advanced baseball program is a coalition of Babe Ruth and Cal Ripken Leagues around the county that offers the players an additional opportunity to play a higher level of talent during the recreation season.
Art Program For Families With Down Syndrome Children And Teens
Center Place’s community partner, the Down Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay (DSATB) will be offering its free 3-21 Art program for families with children and teens who have Down syndrome. The program will take place at Center Place twice a month on the first Monday of each month from 6-7 p.m. and on the third Sunday of each month from 3-4 p.m. The students will use art as a way of expression and communication. The class will also help its students develop social skills and learn how to interact with other students and teachers in a classroom setting. If you would like to preregister your child for this program, please contact Center Place at 685-8888. Children and families must be prescreened for this program
Nashville Duo Playing In Sun City Center
The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center (SCCUMC) is welcoming Nashville duo Dave & Daphne to its campus on Friday, January 7, 2022 at 7 p.m. Dave & Daphne’s concerts have all the energy of a Las Vegas-style show with solid country music roots; they have appeared in such major venues as Nashville Now, the CMA Awards and the
Grand Ole Opry. SCCUMC is located at 1210 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center. A donation of $10 is requested at the door for this concert. For additional information about this and other concerts and recitals, please contact Kevin Goodenow at 362-0956 or visit the SCCUMC website at www.sccumc.com.
Veterans Art Program
The Veterans Art Program is open to veterans of foreign wars. There is no fee, no artistic skill needed, no surveys or record keeping and no reason not to join. It takes place every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. until 12 Noon at Center Place, which is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. To register for the class, call 6858888.
Weight Loss Challenge Winner Donates Winnings To Seeds Of Hope
Congratulations to Jacky Costello, one of the winners of the weight loss challenge at
Volume 21, Issue 1
Inspired Mobile Fitness. Costello, a FishHawk resident, local author and owner of Custom Cleanups, has joined with Rashah Davis, owner of Inspired Mobile Fitness, to present her winnings of $375 to support Seeds of Hope. Costello addJacky Costello donates $500 to Seeds of Hope. ed an additional $125 to be around the country with help from homeable to donate $500 to feed hungry famiowners, real estate agents, vendors, trade lies in the community this holiday season. partners and team members. The Tampa Congratulations, Costello! team partnered with Feeding Tampa Bay, and the donations provided over 90,000 Plant City Community Choral meals, including 5,100 pounds of frozen Rehearsals Starting turkeys and hams, for those in need. Plant City Community Chorale will begin rehearsals for its spring session on Mon- January Meeting Of East Hillsday, January 10, from 7-9:30 p.m. at First borough Democratic Club United Methodist Church, located at 303 The East Hillsborough Democratic Club N. Evers St. in Plant City. The Chorale rewill hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, hearses every Monday night and is always January 11 at 6:30 p.m. Join them at Branlooking for new singers to join the fun. don Crossroads Bowl, located at 609 CraFor more information, visit its website at ter Ln. in Tampa. For those uncomfortable www.pccchorale.org, its Facebook page @ with meeting in person, you may join via plantcitycommunitychorale, or contact the Zoom by going to Mobilize and registering secretary at pccchoralesecretary@gmail. an hour before the meeting. At January’s com. meeting, Tampa Councilman Luis Viera will speak on the topic of rights restoration. David Weekley Collects Thou- For more information, visit www.easthillsands Of Meals During Annual sboroughdems.org or call 677-8300 and leave a message. Food Drive Nearly 311,000 people nationwide received Alafia Republican a hearty Club Meeting Thanksgiving The Alafia Republican meal thanks Club will meet on the third to the partMonday of each month at nership of DaO’Brien’s Irish Pub, located vid Weekley at 701 W. Lumsden Rd. in Homes and Brandon. The speaker for 17 charities January’s meeting is Roberacross the U.S. to Pizano, who was a politTh r o u g h o u t ical prisoner in Cuba before November, being freed in 1979 and movthe company ing to Tampa. Since then, he hosted its sevhas worked to help those in enth annual, Cuba who oppose the socialist regime. Join company-wide Thanksgiving Drive, col- them for social hour from 6 p.m. and Pizalecting 93,000 pounds of food and more no will begin his story at 7 p.m. than $110,000 for nonprofit organizations
Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes
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 INYA HAIR SALON, LLC dba ILONA MIKA SALON located at 3421 Forest Bridge Circle, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Brandon, Florida, 33511 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of RELIABLE LOGISTICS located at 11914 Timberhill Dr, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Riverview, Florida, 33569 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida.
Dated at Valrico, Florida, this 1st day of January, 2022
Dated at Valrico, Florida, this 1st day of January, 2022
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
January 2022
SUPERINTENDENT DAVIS DISCUSSES KINDERGARTEN READINESS
By Superintendent Addison Davis
When a learner enters kindergarten, it can be an incredibly exciting time filled with new opportunities and friendships. However, for students who have yet to be exposed to a traditional classroom environment, kindergarten can be a difficult transition with barriers that may stand in the way of a successful academic experience. We must work together as a community to better prepare our youngest learners for this important milestone that can have long-lasting impacts on their lives. A learner’s initial entry into the classroom sets the stage for their entire educational career. In fact, a student who enters kindergarten on time and prepared for academic success is more likely to master literacy skills by age 11, and even more likely to graduate high school. Unfortunately, only 56 percent of students entering the classroom for the first time in the state of Florida are kindergarten ready. It is for this reason that Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) will initiate a Countdown to Kindergarten initiative in early 2022 to communicate crucial information to families with young learners who will be joining our HCPS family next fall. This proactive approach will include several events throughout the district to acclimate families to their new schools, procedures, and expectations. During the third week of February, schools across the
district will be holding Ready for Kindergarten events to help families with the registration process and introduce students to their school’s leadership. The Countdown to Kindergarten can begin now in every household. If you have a learner who will be joining us for kindergarten in Fall of 2022, the time to build their cognitive skills is now. Read to your child every night to develop their love for literacy while sparking curiosity. Provide multiple opportunities to collaborate with other children their age to grow emotional and social skills that will be pivotal to their success. Start a routine to create healthy sleeping and eating habits, which will have untold benefits once they enter the classroom. I encourage all families with students entering kindergarten next year to visit hillsboroughschools.org/kindergarten. This webpage has a number of resources for families, from finding your assigned school to learning more about our innovative elementary choice and magnet programs. Tell your friends or family members with new learners to utilize our resources and begin their own Countdown to Kindergarten. Together, we can work to break down barriers that create limitations for our newest learners, strengthening the fabric of our district and entire community.
Resolutions and Recovery It’s January and we all know what that means. Time for those New Year’s Resolutions to get back in shape and get your body moving again! There are bound to be bumps and bruises along the way as you strive to reach your goals. Let us help you keep those New Year’s Resolutions by staying PAIN FREE and MOVING WELL At Motion ChiroTherapy, we take our time to talk to you and learn about: Your Problem and Your Lifestyle We Analyze Your Movements and Uncover the ROOT cause of the issue that is affecting you! Once the source of discomfort is detected, we will use the most effective treatments to eliminate the pain while putting you on a path to recovery. We understand you want Fast Pain Relief, Personal Attention, and The Ability to Keep DOING WHAT YOU LOVE ...that’s what we’re here for! Pain gets a lot less frightening when you know what the cause is, and you have a clear path to recovery. Let us know if we can help you reach and keep those New Year’s Resolutions and make this year better than ever!
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Page 19
DONORS HELP LOCAL SCHOOL CREATE STUDENT GARDEN
By Kate Quesada
Students at a the nature, calming Lithia school have a atmosphere, fresh new place to learn air and sunlight, this month thanks and channeling big to a collaboration feelings or emotions between school staff into a constructive and local businesses. task.” Bevis Elementary She also feels School in FishHawk that having a job Ranch developed a in the garden will garden for its stuhelp some students thrive. Daily tasks dents with help from that students can Crossroads Produce, participate in inAce Hardware and Sporting Goods of clude measuring Lithia, 360 Customs Students at Bevis Elementary School have a new and observing garden to enjoy and learn in thanks to a collaboand Kerby’s Nursery. growth, observing ration between the school and local businesses. The idea for the the growth of mongarden came from School Counselors Cath- arch caterpillars and butterflies, weeding and harvesting fresh vegetables, fruit and erine France and Waleska Ramos. “We had an empty space that we knew herbs as they are ready. The school is thankful for the donations, we could transform for all students and staff to utilize and enjoy,” said France. “As without which the garden would not have counselors, we know that every student is been possible. “Ace Hardware donated several bags different and has different needs. When we are called to work with a student, we may of river rocks and lots of seeds,” said bring them to our office to talk; however, France. “Crossroads Produce donated we realized that sometimes students need- multiple sprouting vegetables, herbs, ored to have the freedom to move around, get namentals and perennials and Kerby’s dosome fresh air and sunlight while working nated soil, vegetable sprouts and lots of with their hands.” seeds.” France hopes that all students and staff After a post on the Bevis Parents Facewill get to use the garden. book page, an additional business, 360 “We wanted to create a safe place for ev- Customs, donated funds to purchase turf. Some items, including a long hose, storeryone to enjoy while still focusing on social and emotional goals, with an added bonus age bench and sun sail to protect the garof science,” she said. “We work together den from the sun, are still needed. to make sure it stays clean and growing To learn more or donate to the garden, strong. The students get many valuable les- call the school, located at 5720 Osprey sons when taking care of something else, Ridge Dr., at 740-4000.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
GET THE DIRT: RESOLUTIONS ARE UPON US! BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT, UF/IFAS EXTENSION HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
Many of us ponder New Year’s resolutions and come up with novel ideas. Some follow through, implement and stick with their resolutions. Others try for a month or so, then find reasons to stop. My curiosity got the best of me, so I asked some family members, friends and co-workers for their alleged commitments to a New Year’s resolution. Many were practical, well thought through and humorous. The best comments, in my opinion, follow: Stop planting. Give away more plants. Work on the side yard and get it back to how it used to look. Work less, garden more. Have tools sharpened. Teach cats to pull weeds. (Challenging when you have inside felines!) Convince friends to come over for a yard party and put them to work? (Good luck!) Smell more flowers. Plant more vegetables and eat them. Attend a composting, microirrigation and rainwater harvesting workshop next year to learn how to make my own soil
amendments and save water and money. Do a little bit in your yard every day. Be more aware of the right location for plants ( s u n , shade, water). Still weed, e v e n though I am afraid of snakes. For information about upcoming horticultural programs, use your browser to access our ‘Hillsborough County Extension Calendar of Events.’ Click on upcoming events, view what interests you and register for workshops. It’s not too late to consider or commit to a New Year’s resolution. Creating one is the easy step. Making it happen and sticking to the commitment is more challenging. Good luck, and here’s to wishing all of you safe and wonderful holidays. Lynn Barber is the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ agent for UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County. Contact her at labarber@ufl.edu.
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Volume 21, Issue 1
SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP LEADS TO DONATION FOR STUDENTS AT DOVER ELEMENTARY By Kathy L. Collins A longtime Baldwin said, friendship and “When they told a desire to help me about the children came toschool, I wanted gether recently at to get involved.” a local elementary Dover Elemenschool when handtary School is made, crocheted a Title I school. toys were donated Many of the famto help make this ilies who attend year’s Great Media are low-income, Giveaway special. and many are The handcrafted from migrant toys consist of rofarmworker fambots, clowns, flailies. mingos, alligators, Kerri explained dragons, bunnies the purpose of and more. giving the stuKerri Aman is dents books and the media special- Children at Dover Elementary School in Dover are go- reading budist at Dover Elemen- ing to get treated to a fantastic Great Media Giveaway dies. “They have tary School. Every this year thanks to Claudia Baldwin (center); her long- someone to sit year, Kerri randomly time friend and Valrico resident Sandra Aman (right); with and read selects two children and Kerri Aman (left). Baldwin, who lives in New York, and there is no from each class and handcrafted 400 crocheted toys for the students so they judgment.” Kerri could have a reading buddy. gives them a holiday added, “We try to gift paired with a book. Kerri’s mom, San- build a home library by giving them books. dra Aman, told her longtime friend, Clau- Studies show that children whose homes dia Baldwin, about Kerri’s project. It just have 50 books or more do better in school. so happens that Baldwin, who is the Exalt- We also give books to the children whose ed Ruler of her Elks Club in Penn Yan, New families have to leave so they have a couple York, was looking for a community charity of books with them.” project. Baldwin, who was a music teacher for Sandra explained, “During one of our many years, said, “Giving away like this is phone conversations, I was telling Claudia what Elks do.” about Kerri and the Christmas give away.” Kerri said, “This is a wonderful school Baldwin has a knitting group at the Elks with great students, teachers and staff. Club. They make teddy bears for foster Everyone puts in their best efforts.” children. When Sandra told Claudia about The Great Media Giveaway takes place the project, Baldwin asked how many Ker- the week before Winter Break. ri needed. The number 100 was discussed, Kerri collects used and new books. If you but Baldwin went above that and created would like to donate, please contact her at 400 stuffed animals of all kinds. kerri.aman@hcps.net.
January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
NETWORK TO END HUNGER STEPS UP TO HELP DURING HOLIDAYS
By Libby Hopkins
The Tampa Bay November and once Network to End in December,” ThomHunger (TBNEH) as said. “Our second was founded in 2011 and final Holidays by 10 leaders from On Wheels event various direct serfor the 2021 holiday vice organizations, season took place on businesses and comMonday, December munity circles who 13 in Hillsborough, wanted to work Pinellas and Pasco collaboratively to Counties.” help solve hunger in The recent Giving Hillsborough, Pasco Tuesday Event held and Pinellas Counon November 30 ties. “Today, the nethelped TBNEH raise work includes over The Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger (TBNEH) money to fund its 350 members who was founded in 2011 by 10 leaders from various outreach programs. come together to direct service organizations, businesses and com- “We raised $2,725 munity circles who wanted to work collaboratively tackle hunger in its to help provide holto help solve hunger in Hillsborough, Pasco and tri-county service iday meals and gifts Pinellas Counties. area,” said TBNEH’s to the homes of program director, Toni Thomas. “TBNEH transportation disadvantaged families,” created the first and only Hunger Gap Thomas said. Map in the state of Florida, which shows TBNEH is currently in need of volunfood supply and demand in the network’s teers during the holiday season to help tri-county area. As a collective, the net- them deliver food to those in need. “We work identifies and implements solutions depend on volunteers for our weekly to hunger. Some of its programs include Meals On Wheels programs, but right Meals On Wheels for Kids (MOW4Kids), now, our biggest need is volunteer drivwhich provides home-delivered groceries ers for holidays,” Thomas said. “We need to children who are transportation disad- nearly 100 additional volunteers to delivvantaged or have a homebound parent, er holiday meals and toys for children in and Meals On Wheels St. Petersburg, all three counties that we serve, especialwhich delivers meals to senior and home- ly Hillsborough. Volunteers can sign up at bound adults.” networktoendhunger.volunteerhub.com Launched in 2020, the network’s or contact me at Toni.Thomas@networkMOW4Kids Holidays On Wheels (HOW) toendhunger.org to learn more.” program delivers food for a full holiday For those who are unable to volunteer, meal, along with toys, to transporta- donating is another great option. You can tion-disadvantaged families—in partner- visit TBNEH’s website at www.networkship with Metropolitan Ministries—for toendhunger.org to learn more about the the holidays. “We hold the event once in organization.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
LOCAL TEEN RUNS MO’ MUNCHIES VENDING MACHINE BUSINESS
By Ariana Pedraza
At age 17, most Newsome High kids are seniors School, and has in high school since expanded, worrying about having a total grades, exams of six machines. and the next FriHe plans to conday night football tinue expanding, game. De’Undre and maybe even Lee, a local Newbring on some some High School employees to senior, does all help as he grows. that while runLee’s mom, ning his own Lolita, proudly vending machine expressed, “Dre business. has an unrelentInspiration for ing spirit, he his business, Mo’ works hard and Munchies, struck is so full of new while playing ideas and venues video games one concerning mulnight with his tiple strains of friends. Running a income. He’s way vending machine ahead of the business in-game curve as an engot him thinking, De’Undre Lee shows off his Mo’ Munchies T-shirt with trepreneur and “If this is so much we can’t wait to one of his machines. fun in a game, see what he has what would it be like in real life?” He did in store in his future.” some research and, after that, there was While Lee is very focused on his busino stopping him. ness, he does still allow himself time to First creating and organizing lists of just be a teenager. When he is not sendbusinesses, Lee set out to make his idea a ing emails and planning for his business, reality. He first took those lists of possi- Lee enjoys running and playing basketble businesses and reached out to them, ball as well as reading and spending eventually scoring the opportunity to time outdoors. He also likes researching place his first machine at a real estate topics that interest him for fun. His goals office through the help of his mother. include being a better person in all as“There is not a decision made or an pects of his life and wanting to possibly email sent that she doesn’t help me with, achieve a business degree. and I am so grateful to God for her,” he For more information, email mo. said. munchiesvending@gmail.com or find the Lee was given the opportunity to place business on Facebook and Instagram una vending machine at his school, Joe E. der ‘Mo’ Munchies Vending.’
Volume 21, Issue 1
STOWERS ELEMENTARY TOY DRIVE REPLENISHES BRANDON REGIONAL TOY CLOSET
By Lily Belcher
Stowers Elementary planned to fill stockings for 90 kids and wrap around 20 items for each age group. The toys and activities are distractions for nervous patients and gives them a way to redirect their energy before a test or procedure. Stowers Elementary students were asked to bring in doStowers Elementary School donates over 1,000 toys and pillowcases to nations and make Brandon Regional Hospital. cards for its peers who Last year, Stowers Elementary School are in the hospital. The arts and crafts, inin Lithia collected toys for Brandon Recluding handmade get-well cards, were gional Hospital’s Toy Closet during the brought to the hospital with the toys to holidays. Brandon Regional’s Toy Closet replenish the Toy Closet. gives pediatric patients their own pillow“We never imagined that in these crazy cases and toys for their hospital rooms. times that this would have been such a Stowers Elementary started its own colsuccess, but we are so proud that our stulection for the closet to replenish the toy dents helped other local kids,” said Sahoo. supply. After seeing the success of last year’s “Stowers Elementary was looking for a toy drive, Stowers Elementary decided to way to give back to the community. After help replenish the Brandon Regional Hoslearning about different needs, we decidpital Toy Closet again. The toy drive ran ed to have a donation drive for the pedifrom December 6 through December 17. atric unit of Brandon Regional Hospital,” Students and families were asked to bring explained PTA Service Project Liaison Rachel Sahoo. “They have a closet with ac- toys for patients under 18 years old and tivities, but the closet is very low on sup- pillowcases to brighten up their hospital plies. We also learned that every pediatric beds. Over 1,000 new crafts, games, small patient gets their own pillowcase that toys and pillowcases were brought to the they get to take home with them after.” Toy Closet the week before Christmas. Due to the coronavirus, all patients “It’s another successful year with a now need their own, new toys. Sahoo filled collection bin every day,” said Sahoo. explained that allowing them to pick out To donate new games, toys or pillowtheir own pillowcases makes the patients cases, contact Sahoo at rachel.sahoo@ feel more secure and comfortable in the gmail.com. hospital environment.
Jan. 8th Grand Prize
January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 23
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk
Double Eagle Auto Center And Niche Auto Finders Opening Soon
Double Eagle Auto Center (formerly Car Wash on the Greens) and Niche Auto Finders, Inc. is opening soon in Valrico. The oil change services offered within the old fast lube shop will now focus solely on the highest quality oil brands and premium synthetic; full-service specialty mechanical is also part of the expansion. The new owners have brought together a carefully selected, pre-owned inventory of distinctive vehicles as well. “Our goal is to offer an impressive selection of top-quality pre-owned cars and trucks at the most competitive prices in the nation,” said Aaron Bleich, owner of Niche Auto Finders. Sam Shore, also an owner, is a truck connoisseur, but he still loves to jump in a hot rod when he’s not hauling a trailer or building materials. Niche Auto Finders strives to offer cars for every budget, from a $2,500 starter car to a $100,000 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570 Performante. The new auto services and sales business, with a remodeled lounge area, is located at 3618 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, just a half-mile south of Blooming-
dale and next to Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. Contact info to ‘talk clean cars’ like BMWs, Jaguars, Lexus, Mercedes, Hondas, Fords and more is 416-7224. Visit www.nicheautofinders.com for more information, or stop in and look around.
Citizens Bank & Trust Selects Tiffany Achille To Lead New Valrico Office
Tiffany Achille has been selected to lead the Valrico office location of Citizens Bank & Trust. The office, located at 1016 Bloomingdale Ave., opened in November and marks the bank’s first entry into Hillsborough County. A native of Tampa, Achille began her banking career in 2002, starting as a teller and working her way up to branch manager. With an extensive background in the Valrico market, she values the one-on-one customer interaction offered by a community bank, working with businesses and
families to identify their needs and find the right banking solutions. In addition, Achille volunteers with Seeds of Hope and Toys for Tots, and she has helped hundreds of families in need through a baby formula and diaper supply pantry she created to address a critical need in the community. “We are excited to have Tiffany as part of the Citizens Bank & Trust family. Her experience working and serving the Valrico community makes her a great fit as we enter this new market,” said Citizens Bank & Trust President and CEO Greg Littleton. “Tiffany and her team look forward to working with customers to build strong relationships and becoming a partner in the community.”
Greenbrook Medical Celebrates Ribbon-Cutting
Greenbrook Medical has been delivering high-quality, personalized primary care to seniors with Medicare Advantage in Tampa Bay for 30 years and recently celebrated the ribbon-cutting of a new clinic in Seffner. It offers the highest-touch service you’ll find from your doctor—you’ll always see your board-certified doctor. It
offers same-day appointments, same-day referrals to specialists, low wait times, convenient on-site services and treatments like lab services, EKG, PFT, skin cancer biopsies and treatments, joint injections, vaccines and more. Greenbrook Medical of Seffner is located at Lakewood Market at 11200 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Ste. 107 in Seffner. For more information, visit www.greenbrookmedical. com, follow at www.facebook.com/Greenbrook-Medical-225419642808550/ or call 443-3399.
Amani MedSpa Moves To New Location
Amani MedSpa is owned by Dr. Gina Brar, a personable and highly experienced physician who is very hands-on and offers top-notch cosmetic and wellness services. “Our guests are like family who receive the most outstanding customer service from the moment they walk in the door. Their experience becomes a memorable one they will never forget and keeps them coming back to our beautiful spa,” said Brar. Services offered at Amani MedSpa include Botox/Dysport, fillers, laser treatments, IV therapy, body contouring, float therapy, massages and facials. Amani MedSpa is located at 1102 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. To find out more about the services it offers and to book an appointment, visit its website at www.amanimedspa.com or call 685-6111.
Page 26
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... You can also follow it on Facebook @amanimedspa.
massagebook.com/ biz/ACTMassageoflithia, call 356-9703 or email actmassageoflithia@gmail. com. Mobile massage options are also available with prior approval.
22 Moons Antiques & Tea Room Opens The Porch
22 Moons Antiques & Tea Room recently celebrated the grand opening of The Porch. 22 Moons hand-selects each item because of its beauty, uniqueness and quality. With the new addition of the tearoom, it has combined its customers’ love for both the antique shop and the tearoom, which has led to a blended name and spirit. At 22 Moons’ ‘The Porch,’ it serves grab-and-go items as well as à la carte tearoom selections with a casual outdoor seating space. 22 Moons Antiques & Tea Room is located at 3102 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more information, visit www.22moonsantiquesandtea.com or call 278-5213.
A.C.T. Massage Of Lithia Opens
FishHawk resident Jean Niccum, who is a registered nurse and has over 30 years of experience in the health care field, recently started A.C.T. Massage of Lithia, located at 411 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 411 in Brandon. It provides relaxing and therapeutic massages to help clients achieve health and well-being using techniques that promote relaxation and healing holistically. “Studies have shown massage therapy to produce positive results when used as an adjunct to help individuals manage common ailments such as high blood pressure, peripheral neuropathy, depression, anxiety and post-cancer treatment, to name a few,” said Niccum. For additional information, visit its website at www.
CORA Physical Therapy Launches Riverview Location
CORA Physical Therapy brings trusted, highly skilled clinicians to the Riverview neighborhood, and it’s ready to introduce you to the industry’s most advanced treatments. The Riverview clinic provides t re a t m e n t for general orthopedic and sports injuries, post-COVID care programs, geriatric rehabilitation and occupational therapy. CORA Physical Therapy is laser-focused on superior outcomes. CORA Physical Therapy is located at 11420 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview. For additional information or to make an appointment, visit its website at www.coraphysicaltherapy.com or call 405-4383.
Meticulous Jess Marketing Agency Celebrates First Anniversary
Meticulous Jess is a Tampa-based, full-service digital marketing agency owned by Jessica Edwards. It focuses on helping businesses achieve their goals, generate leads, improve customer retention and establish a recognizable brand. To schedule a consultation with Meticulous Jess or for more information, call 822-9884 or visit www.meticulousjessmarketing.com.
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Volume 21, Issue 1
HITECH AUTOMOTIVE WELCOMES NEW OWNERS TO CONTINUE GREAT SERVICE
By Libby Hopkins
Gary and his father-inlaw, Tom Gauvreaus, are the new owners of HiTech Automotive. They are excited for their new business venture. “Buying the shop was a perfect opportunity for me to fulfill a lifelong dream of following in my father’s foot footsteps of becoming self-employed in the auto HiTech Automotive has new owners. They are Gary Olson and his repair industry,” Gary said. “I father-in-law, Tom Gauvreaus. They recently purchased the business want to create stronger ties from longtime owners Joe and Melissa Canfield. to the community and build Gary Olson has worked at a financial future for my HiTech Automotive for 12 family.” years as the service manager Gauvreaus also has had with the previous owners, Joe a dream of owning his own and Melissa Canfield, and he is business. now one of the new owners of “I have always wanted to the popular business. own my own business, and Gary has been married to his wife, Denise the opportunity to own an established busiOlson, for more than 20 years. ness with a reputation as good as HiTech’s “We moved back to the Brandon area in was just too good to pass up,” Gauvreaus 2009,” Gary said. “Our daughters, Olivia and said. “We plan on continuing the great repTrinity, attended Bevis and FishHawk Creek utation HiTech has for customer service and Elementary Schools and then Randall and trying to expand our customer base.” Newsome.” Gauvreaus is also a 20-year Navy veteran Gary is part of the Nam Knights of Amer- who has lived in FishHawk since 2005. He ica which is a motorcycle club made up of still works for the U.S. Army as well. “We former and current military and law en- are a veteran-owned business offering a 10 forcement members. percent discount to all veterans,” Gauvreaus “They raise money for local charities said. “We are still a family, locally owned throughout the year,” Gary said. “I’m a business and we plan on continuing to Navy veteran and a member of AMVETS strengthen our bonds with the local comPost 26. Denise is a member of the Ladies munity.” Auxiliary at AMVETS Post 26 as well, volIf you would like to learn more about Hiunteering her time to the community. De- Tech Automotive, you can visit its website nise left her corporate job with Graybar at www.hitechautomotiveofbrandon.com Electric to join her father and I in running or call 684-1556. HiTech Automotive is loour family business.” cated at 119 S. Montclair Ave. in Brandon.
January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
LOCAL MILITARY HEROES RECEIVE ALL-TERRAIN WHEELCHAIRSStaff Report his left leg in February 2019. He was also awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during combat. Freedom Alliance President Tom Kilgannon presented the customized chairs to Flores and U.S. Army Corporal James Donaldson, a Zephyrhills resident and Purple Heart recipient. “Each of these heroes have made incredible Photo courtesy of Photos FLA sacrifices for our country Freedom Alliance President Tom Kilgannon presents an all-terrain and their sacrifice must wheelchair to U.S. Army Corporal Jonathan Flores on November 19 never be forgotten,” said at Veterans Memorial Park in Tampa. Kilgannon. “We hope A local hero received recognition and these chairs help allevimore from a military support organiza- ate the pain from their wounds and protion last month. vide comfort as our troops use them to Plant City resident U.S. Army Corporal access Florida’s beautiful beaches and Jonathan Flores was one of two wounded join in other recreational activities that local veterans who each received a cus- would not be possible without the assistomized all-terrain wheelchair from Free- tance of a chair like this,” he concluded. dom Alliance during a double donation Freedom Alliance is a charitable orgapresentation on November 19 at the Iraq nization providing support to wounded Memorial at Veterans Memorial Park in troops and military families in a variety Tampa. of ways. The group has awarded more Following the 9/11 attacks, Flores was than $20 million in college scholarships inspired to serve his country and enlisted to the children of heroes killed or disabled in the U.S. Army in 2005. On July 4, 2007, in military service and spent millions while conducting combat patrols, his ve- more helping injured veterans and their hicle was hit with a pressure plate IED families with recreational therapy, Heand small arms fire. He was transported roes Retreats, care packages for deployed via medevac helicopter and transferred troops, mortgage-free homes, all-terto Walter Reed National Military Med- rain wheelchairs and much more. ical Center, where he medically retired Learn more about Freedom Alliance in September 2008. The wounds he sus- at freedomalliance.org or facebook.com/ tained in 2007 led to the amputation of FreedomAlliance.
Page 27
RIVERVIEW WIDOW OF NAVY VETERAN GETS A NEW FENCE
By Tatiana Ortiz
Ella McFarland, her son, Waleed McFarland, along with Johnson & Johnson volunteers smiling in front of Ella’s home.
A group of volunteers from Johnson & Johnson gave a helping hand by dedicating their time to construct a new fence for Riverview resident Ella McFarland, who is a widow of a Navy veteran, Curtis McFarland. The McFarlands were married for 59 years. He passed away in 2016. Due to Ella’s limited income and general poor health, she found maintaining her modest home difficult. The efforts of this project were part of last month’s Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough Florida, Inc.’s Veterans Initiative Week of Service, which occurs annually during the week leading up to Veterans Day. This would be the fourth year of it. In addition, The Home Depot Foundation and Bank of America sponsored the seven days of service for these veteran initiative projects. Nitza Rivera, Veterans Build and neighborhood revitalization program manager at Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough Florida, Inc., mentioned what the goal of the Veterans Build Week of Service is. “The goal of Veterans Build Week of Service is to raise awareness about the need for affordable homeownership opportunities
and the need for assistance with repairs and accessibility modifications for low to median-income veteran families,” Rivera said. Ella shared how she will benefit from her new fence. “With my new fence, I will no longer need to be concerned about animals coming in my backyard,” Ella said. Ella retired from driving a school bus for more than 21 years. She remains active and works part time for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department as a crosswalk guard at Warren Hope Dawson Elementary School. “Overall, I am so grateful to the volunteers and Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough Florida, Inc. for assisting not only me but also other military families as well,” Ella said. Being able to give back to veterans holds a special place in Rivera’s heart because she is a veteran herself who served in the Army for 23 years. Volunteers will also be needed for the upcoming Veterans Build, which is slated to kick off in January. For more information, and to get involved in the program, please visit https://www. habitathillsborough.org.
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Page 28
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
SMOOTHER RIDES ON THE WAY FOR LOCAL DRIVERS By Brad Stager Hillsborough In Summerfield, County’s efforts to resurfacing projects fix roads needing include Melinda, potholes filled and Glenshire, Spottsa fresh coat of aswood and Dixon Drs., phalt are getting a as well as Stanford boost as local offiand Sumner Rds., cials prepare to Lovers Ln. and Enspend about $40 trance Way. million on road Hinson and Ranch improvements. Rds. as well as HardThe county is More traffic barricades will be seen as Hillsborough er Oaks Ave. in Valusing $35 million County prepares to spend about $40 million on road rico will receive road in American Res- resurfacing and repair projects, including several in surface upgrades. cue Plan Act fedIn Bloomingdale, Southern Hillsborough County. eral dollars as well Bell Grande, Hickoas an additional $5 million ry Creek, Shady Leaf, Emerald the board of county comCreek and Holleman Drs. as well missioners (BOCC) approved as Coppertree Cir. will have reto fund the roadwork. The surfacing performed. ARPA funding was approved In the Balm/Wimauma area, in March and includes monLong Rifle Dr., River Estates Dr. ey to support transportation and Bledsoe Loop’s road surfaces needs. will be improved. Overall, eight major roadIn Ruskin, Sweeney Dr. and way corridors will be re33rd St. will see resurfacing imsurfaced, as will 89 neighborhood roads. provements, as will Eagle Palm Dr. and ValRepairs will be made to an additional 32 erie Ln. in Riverview and Old Big Bend Rd. roads. The resurfacing and repair work will in Gibsonton. improve about 285 miles of what transporThere will also be localized repair work tation officials refer to as ‘lane miles’ of Hill- performed on Bentwood, Faxton, New Bedsborough County roads. ford and Seton Hall Drs., as well as MeadTwo of the eight major resurfacing proj- owlark Ln. in the Sun City Center area and ects affect roads in Central and Southern a section of Old Mulrennan Rd. in Valrico. Hillsborough County. In Brandon, Oakfield During the BOCC’s discussion about the Dr. will be resurfaced from S. Lakewood Dr. road work during its November 17 meeting, to S. Parsons Ave. In Gibsonton, Riverview Commissioner Ken Hagan highlighted how Dr. from S. U.S. Hwy. 41 to Alafia Dr. in Gib- some projects to fix long-standing road sonton will also be resurfaced. problems will finally get some attention. Brandon area roads that are being re“Some have been on our unfunded list for surfaced include Orangewalk, Elk Spring, over a decade and now we do have a fundWindhorst Ridge and Branda Vista Drs., as ing source that will address our needs,” he well as Robin Hill Cir. and Lakehurst Way. said.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
January 2022
AMERICAN LEGION POST 148 HOSTS FUNDRAISER FOR ONE OF ITS MEMBERS
PLANT CITY BOULEVARD HAS BEEN NAMED FLORIDA MAIN STREET OF THE MONTH Staff Report
By Libby Hopkins
The American wheelchair into Legion Riders the car. Alafia Chapter “Over the 148 will be hostlast year, my ing a poker run wife has also fundraiser on endured her Saturday, March own mobili19, 2022 for one ty challengof its members, es, which has Ed Linde, who is placed a greatin need of outfiter burden on ting a wheelchair our ability to adaptive accessigo anywhere,” ble vehicle. Linde said. The American Legion Riders Alafia Chapter 148 will be Linde suf“This has been fers from Char- hosting a poker run fundraiser on Saturday, March 19 for an eye-opener cot-Marie-Tooth one of its members, Ed Linde, who is in need of outfitting a and a realization wheelchair adaptive accessible vehicle. (CMT). CMT is of how much I a debilitating condition of the peripheral rely on Vicki. When she travels for business nerves that control the muscles. It is the or away, I am basically trapped at home. most commonly inherited peripheral neu- We have thought hard and long, and even ropathy, affecting more than three million to regain a small bit of my independence people worldwide. CMT is a progressive we began to look at accessible vehicles, disease, causing loss of normal function which has brought me to this point: a new, and/or sensation in the feet, legs, hands accessible vehicle, with the adaptable and arms. CMT is currently incurable, but equipment I would require, would cost not usually fatal, though it can be severely close to $80,000. We have found good disabling in some people. used vehicles, but they would still need to “For years, we have supported and con- be retrofitted with the equipment required tributed to our fellow riders, veterans to meet my needs. I am not covered under and the community,” Linde said. “Helping the VA, and because of our income, we do those in need and in particular our veter- not qualify for any government or outside ans brings great pleasure to my wife, Vicki, assistance.” and I. For us, it has always been easier to The poker run begins at 9:30 a.m. at give and contribute than to ask for help for American Legion Post 148 at 10708 ourselves when needed. I have come to a Hannaway Dr. in Riverview and ends at 3 point where I now reach out and ask for p.m. at AMVETS Post 44 at 5521 SR 60 your support. I find it difficult to ask for in Plant City. Registration fee is $15 and help and I know it’s not because I’m weak, include poker hands and a meal. If you but because I want to remain strong.” would like to participate in the fundraiser Due to the progression of his condition, for Linde, you can visit the post’s website Linde can no longer go anywhere without at www.americanlegionalafiapost148.org someone else to assist with loading his or call 677-6529.
Page 29
music, and food and drinks were offered at the participating businesses. Plant City Main Street used its ‘Topics on Tap’ events to recruit and educate existing and potential business owners about opportunities in downtown, including grant programs available Photograph courtesy of Rob Yoho. Plant City Main Street was desigthrough the City of Plant nated the November 2021 Florida Main Street of the Month. City. Matt Morrow, owner Last month, Secretary of State Laurel M. of The Tipsy Bookworm, summed up the imLee announced that Plant City Main Street pact of these efforts: “ was designated the November 2021 Florida After I attended ‘Topics on Tap’ and Plant Main Street Program of the Month. City Main Street walked me through the “Plant City Main Street’s revitalization ef- city grants, it became clear that The Tipforts are inspiring,” said Lee. “By supporting sy Bookworm belongs in downtown Plant their local businesses through community City.” partnerships, special events, education and Florida Main Street is a program adminispromotion opportunities, Plant City Main tered by the Division of Historical ResourcStreet is helping to create a vibrant down- es under the Florida Department of State, town district for residents and visitors to which currently oversees 54 communities enjoy.” throughout the state. By implementing the Plant City Main Street was designated in National Main Street Center’s Four-Point 1985 as one of five pilot communities of the Approach, Florida Main Street encourages Florida Main Street program. Since its reor- economic development within the context ganization in 2018, Plant City Main Street of historic preservation through the revitalhas been effective in bringing people, busi- ization of Florida’s downtowns—the comnesses and jobs back to the downtown area. munity’s heart and soul. Plant City Main Street has seen a recent Since its reorganization, Plant City resurgence of business openings within its Main Street has reported approximately district. Referred to locally as the ‘Evers $1,044,782 in public and private reinvestStreet Wave,’ the business recruitment ments and welcomed 22 net new businessefforts were spearheaded by Plant City es and 91 net new full-time and part-time Main Street with support from community jobs to the district. The organization has partners. In May 2021, these revitalization also reported 3,825 volunteer hours. efforts and new businesses were highlightVisit plantcitymainstreet.org or facebook. ed to the community with the Evers Street com/PCMainStreet. Visit floridamainstreet. Block Party. The block party featured live com or facebook.com/FloridaMainStreet.
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Page 30
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BELL CREEK GIRLS BOWLING TEAM DISTRICT AND STATE CHAMPS
By Amy Schechter
combination of talent, teamwork and friendship really showed the entire two days. Each one of them seemed to know that they could count of the other to pick them up if they started to struggle. As a coach, it is hard to get that kind of chemistry when Coach Tony Calo, Sierra Calo, Elli Coleman, Kendal Reighard, Malayna Calo the pressure of competition is so and Ally Ford. The Bell Creek Academy Girls Bowling intense. This was Team had no less than a historic season. the best team I ever coached.” Anthony The girls took home the district champion- highlighted the fact that Kendall, their ship for the third year in a row, and then sixth-grader, handled herself and perwent on to the Florida High School Athlet- formed amazing. She threw a 196, her ic Association state championships, where highest game ever, when they needed it the team finished second overall, and team most. member Sierra Calo won the state individHis daughter, Sierra, is now a threeual championship. time district champion and a state chamThe team consists of Sierra Calo (12th pion. She averages around 215 per game. grade), Elli Coleman (12th grade), Ally Ford “As Sierra’s father and high school coach, (12th grade), Malayna Calo (eighth grade), I know how much she wanted to win a and Kendall Reighard (sixth grade). Coach state championship and how hard she has Anthony Calo can attest to the hard work worked over the years. She had her disthey each put forth to achieve: “All of the trict championships, but she really wanted girls attend practice regularly three days to win a state championship. I was very per week, plus participate in one or more impressed with her composure after losing leagues per week, plus have their own the first game of the championship match practice time or private coaching.” The only to come back with a 243 and a 246 to girls stepped up in the weeks leading up win. The competition was incredibly tough, to the competition, for which Anthony fo- and she earned her victory every step of cused on spares, even going so far as to the way.” implement ‘team’ penalties when an indiAfter high school, Sierra is going to an vidual did not get their spare. This recreat- NCAA Division I college, and Coleman is ed a pressure situation to prepare them for about to decide which college she’s going what they would face during competition, to bowl with. Sierra actually got into bowlbut in Anthony’s eyes, it also emphasized ing because she and Coleman were friends, that winning or losing would happen as a and now they are both going to be able to team. continue the sport they love in college. Fast-forward to the present, and he could Four years ago, Bell Creek Academy not be prouder: “The Bell Creek Academy started out with a coed bowling team beGirls team really made a name for them- cause there weren’t enough girls for a sepselves at state championships. I could arate team. Now, they are the winningest see them getting better and better as the team at the school and are so thankful for season went on, but for them to come to- the support Bell Creek Academy provides. gether at state championships and make it Bell Creek Academy is located at 13221 all the way to the finals was amazing. The Boyette Rd. in Riverview.
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 Niche Auto Finders Inc. DBA Double Eagle Auto Center and Niche Motors located at 3618 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Valrico, Florida, 33596 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Valrico, Florida, this 15th day of January, 2022
Volume 21, Issue 1
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FLEET MANAGEMENT AND DIRECTOR RECOGNIZED AS BEST IN NATION
Staff Report
lective efforts of the Fleet Management employees who provide an invaluable public service of keeping county services for more than 1.4 million residents moving. Hillsborough County Fleet Management oversees more than 3,300 vehicles and equipment items valued at about $145 million for more than 30 county departments, along with other agencies and constitutional ofHillsborough County Fleet Management has been named fices. Vehicles range from genthe top government fleet in the country and Robert Stine has eral-purpose on-the-road vehicles been named the top fleet management director. to special-purpose construction vehicles, boats, trailers, buses, fire Hillsborough County Fleet Management has been named the top government fleet apparatus and more. Fleet Management is in the country and Robert Stine has been responsible for the vehicles’ maintenance named the top fleet management director. and replacement as well as managing fuel The honors were announced on Novem- consumption and delivery and setting poliber 16 at the Government Fleet Expo and cies for vehicle use. Among the department practices that Conference in Orlando. Fleets were judged on leadership with staff, customers and led to the award are fleet maintenance within the community; efficiency; over- programs that extended the life of vehicles; coming challenges; and having a vision and supporting energy conservation efforts; direction for the operation. Hillsborough professional staff and technicians with County was named the No. 1 large fleet in advanced certifications; the creation of the country for governments with 1,000 an emergency management plan that proor more assets and received the overall top vides for loss of refueling capabilities and honor for all government fleets regardless alternate shop facilities; an inventory management program that saves money and of size. Stine was named the 2021 Public Sec- time; continuous staff training; and an emtor Fleet Manager of the Year. Judges re- phasis on customer input. The department viewed each candidate in 10 categories: continued to provide outstanding customer business plan, technology implementation, service during the pandemic while ensurproductivity, policies, preventive mainte- ing employee safety by using a hybrid work nance program, utilization management, model of on-site, selective teleworking opreplacement program, customer service, erations and modifying vehicles as needed with items such as air purification systems fuel management and safety. The awards are a recognition of the col- or Plexiglas barriers.
January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 31
ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-SOUTH EARNS ROBOTIC CENTER OF EXCELLENCE DESIGNATION
Staff Report
of our hospital to provide superior care with the most modern technology and practices,” said Phil Minden, St. Joseph’s Hospital-South president. “We continue to strive and assess our patient care to bring the best possible outcomes for our surgery patients. This accreditation is a manifestation of that commitment.” The surgeon operates the robot from a console that St. Joseph’s Hospital-South operating room and surgery team has four interactive arms members with a surgical robot. and a high-resolution screen St. Joseph’s Hospital-South has received that projects 3D images of accreditation as a Center of Excellence in the surgical site. The surgeon manually Robotic Surgery by the Surgical Review operates the instruments utilizing their Corporation (SRC). SRC is a leading inde- hands and fingers. When the surgeon pendent, external evaluator of programs moves, the instruments respond precisely and services for surgeons and hospitals. to those movements in real time. The inThe designation signifies that St. Jo- struments work identically to the moveseph’s Hospital-South’s robotic surgery ment of a human arm, human elbow and services provide the highest quality of care a human wrist, however with an enhanced to patients. To earn Robotic Surgery Cen- range of motion. ter of Excellence designation, St. Joseph’s Robotic surgery provides superior dexHospital-South underwent a series of in- terity, enhanced vision and improved surgispections and visits where all aspects of cal access compared to conventional minthe surgical program were examined and imally invasive surgery or traditional open scrutinized and health outcomes of pa- surgery. The robot navigates a precise tients were reviewed. The inspection and approach to areas that traditional surgical visit process involved physicians, nurses instruments are unable to reach. and administrators involved with robotic At St. Joseph’s Hospital-South robotic surgery at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South. surgeries are performed in gynecology, gyThe accreditation process is done ev- necologic oncology, urology, colorectal and ery three years and St. Joseph’s Hospi- general surgeries. tal-South’s accreditation is through 2024. Visit https://baycare.org/hospitals/ Surgeons at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South st-josephs-hospital-south/services/surhave performed nearly 1,200 robotic sur- gery/robotic-surgery to learn more about geries. robotic surgery services at St. Joseph’s “Accreditation represents the dedication Hospital-South.
USHERS ARE THE HEART AND SOUL OF STRAZ By Kathy L. Collins If you love going to see than welcome to sign live Broadway shows, The up for as many shows Florida Orchestra and Opera as they would like to Tampa, consider becoming work.” an usher for the Straz Center. Shows are assigned Ushers go through an orion the 15th of each entation class, which includes month. a tour. After the class, they The Straz Center work two training shows offers the training with a senior usher who has program throughout been designated as a mentor. the year. Ushers must The class is three hours long. pay for their uniform, Ushers must be able to stand but they are given for up to three hours if no complimentary parkVolunteering as an usher for the Straz seats are available to them. ing. Center comes with many perks, including They will have to be able to Jean Ippolito of the opportunity to see great Broadway carry plastic bins with pro- shows, The Florida Orchestra and more. Brandon has worked grams that could weigh up With six venues, you have a wide variety. as an usher for many to 15 pounds. years. Ippolito said, You are also performing a valuable service for a beloved local institution. As an usher, you get to “I volunteered and see amazing shows. Morewas trained as an over, according to Deborah Ferree, senior usher in 2008. Anyone who has even a camanager of Guest Services, “We frequently sual interest in the performing arts can conhave ticket deals so they can buy tickets for tribute greatly by volunteering. There are nufriends and family to see the shows. We have merous assignments from which to choose. an annual dinner for the ushers that includes The administrative staff always expresses a cocktail hour and a wonderful meal and en- appreciation to the volunteers. I thoroughly tertainment. We also have a BBQ every fall enjoy each production.” to welcome them back.” The Straz Center has been offering the The Straz Center has two types of users: usher program since it opened. In fact, FerChoice and Master. Ferree said, “We require ree said, “We have 11 ushers that have been the Choice ushers to sign up for two shows here since the doors opened.” Ferree added, per month. The Master ushers sign up for “Our ushers are very important to the Straz any show that is on their chosen date or Center. They are the heart and soul of the time. For example, Saturday matinee Master center. We would not be able to make the ushers are expected to sign up for Saturday magic happen without them.” matinee shows, if we have them. Of course, For more information, please contact Ferboth Choice and Master ushers are more ree at 229-7827.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT STARTS HER OWN BUSINESS SELLING CHOCOLATE TREATS
By Makenzie Atkins
If you’re looking for a with those grades, sweet treat it’s time to of course,” said Cici, try shopping from Cici’s “but it never seems Covered Strawberries, to change anything a local student’s busiwith my customness at Riverview High ers.” School. Cici’s treats are Xyomora Santiago, great for birthdays, also known as Cici, was anniversaries or looking for a fun way to even just to sit and make some extra money enjoy for yourself. as a 15-year-old freshAlong with the regman in high school. With ular menu items, her love for baking and she also offers specreating sweet treats, cial occasion boxes she took a chance at sell- Cici once had a giant order of 200 chocolate-cov- like homecoming ing chocolate-covered ered strawberries which took hours to complete, but proposals or holiit was all worth it. strawberries. She startday-themed treats ed a business known as and can spell out Cici’s Covered Strawbershort phrases on top ries and has started to exof the strawberries. pand her menu. Cici, now a 17-yearCici worked hard at creold junior who gradating chocolate-covered uates in 2023, is so strawberries that she was proud to see how far confident in and feels like she has come in just her skills have progressed. under two years with Happy with her progress, her small business and Cici has decided to add is excited to see where things like marshmallow it goes in the future. cereal treats, hot chocoShe is eager to go late bombs and many other to college and hopes goodies that can be smothto major in business ered in chocolate. management so she Cici prioritizes her schooling and works can learn more. Cici’s biggest dream is to hard to balance time with her business. one day open her own store front right in With many of her customers being fellow Tampa to continue growing into something high school students, she knows they un- bigger. derstand that sometimes she has to direct For more information or to order treats, more of her focus on school. please contact Cici at 550-9897 or find “Despite the fact that I absolutely love Cici’s Covered Strawberries at @ciciscovwhat I do, I find myself taking a break eredstrawberries on Instagram and Facefrom my business sometimes, to catch up book.
Volume 21, Issue 1
TONY BARONI’S REAL ESTATE TEAM INCLUDES FORMER UFC FIGHTER SHAH BOBONIS
By Lily Belcher
Tony Baroni, local real He fought in estate agent for Keller Costa Rica profesWilliams, is the CEO of sionally in the early his team, managing his 2000s after meetgroup of buyers and ing Jorge Masvidal sellers that guide cusat his boxing gym. tomers through the real Masvidal encourestate market. aged Bobonis to try “The Promise means a local MMA gym that we will deliver the and Bobonis immebest service you could diately quit boxing ever imagine receiving. to pursue MMA That everyone on our fighting. team will be focused After he was and care about your Shah Bobonis fought in the UFC before joining done fighting prothe Tony Baroni Real Estate Team needs as if you were fessionally, he our only client,” according started coaching to their website. “That we young fighters, such will anticipate challenges as Chris Barnette. and get ahead of it so we “Now that I’m can stop any surprises. coaching, it is just The Tony Baroni Team are as fulfilling as when focused on making this a I was fighting,” said five-star experience that Bobonis. exceeds all your expectaWhile he contintions.” ued to fight and One of Baroni’s team stay active outside a members is former UFC professional fighting fighter Shah Bobonis. rink, he joined BarBobonis’ path to the real estate field was oni’s team. He chose the real estate busianything but typical. The 43-year-old was ness because he had some sales experience drafted by the Seattle Mariners to play through working at his gym and even manbaseball out of high school. While he en- aging a P.F. Chang’s out of college. joyed baseball, he found his passion in box“Tony [Baroni], by far, is the most fair ing and fighting after college. boss I’ve ever had across the board in any “There’s really nobody to blame but industry. He sets expectations and it is up yourself,” Bobonis said about fighting. “Ul- to you. Kind of like fighting, its up to you to timately, the battle goes through you. You sink or swim,” said Bobonis. get all the praise, or all the backlash, and I For more information on Baroni’s team, like that type of pressure.” visit tonybaroni.com or call 866-965-5603.
FishHawk Youth Baseball Spring 2022 Registration is NOW OPEN!! For ages 4-18
Register NOW...Late Registration is January 13. Any questions please email FYBpresident@gmail.com or visit our website at:
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ously announced 25,000 sq. ft. renovation already underway which will double the museum’s exhibition spaces and triple its education spaces. According to the museum’s visitor experience and volunteer assistant supervisor, Denise Esquibel-Rangel, much of the new space will be transparent so that residents in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and at Tampa Riverwalk The Tampa Museum of Art recently announced a new expansion expect- will be able to see what ed to be completed in 2024. is going on inside and Local art lovers have a lot to look forwill feel invited to enter. ward to in the coming years. The Tampa The project is designed by New YorkMuseum of Art recently celebrated 101 based Weiss/Manfredi Architecture and years and announced an expansion that the fundraising goal for the project is $100 will add a significant amount of space to million. the downtown Tampa location to make “I believe the cultural life of the city is more room for exhibits, education, events key to our long-term success,” said Kerry and more. Divers, president of the Tampa Museum The museum, which opened its doors in of Art’s board of directors. “It will be a November of 1920, moved to the current landmark facility for this whole part of the location in 2010. state.” “We feel that we are continuing the The project will also include an extra dream, the spirit of the museum, by con- 1,000 square feet to a redesigned dog tinuing to grow,” said Tampa Museum of park and new entrances to the museum Art’s community engagement manager, from Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Kessandra Abel. “We can’t stand still beTo learn more about the expansion, visit cause the Tampa Bay community isn’t www.tampamuseum.org/testsite. The mustanding still.” seum, which is located at 120 W. GasparThe new construction, which is expected illa Plz. in Tampa, is open from Monday to to be completed in 2024, will add a crys- Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and on Thursday, talline, four-story structure to the water- 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and can be reached at 274front with approximately 51,000 sq. ft. of 8130. To purchase tickets, call 421-8380 new space. This is in addition to the previ- or visit www.tampamuseum.org/visit/.
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Volume 21, Issue 1
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Page 35
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEGACY ELEVEN PHOTOGRAPHY.
BLOOMINGDALE LADY BULLS BASKETBALL TEAM IS OFF TO RECORD START
Ava Knauer is an extra coach on the floor and is an excellent three-point shooter.
Joline Raposo leads the team with 10.7 points per game.
The Bloomingdale Lady Bulls basketball team is off to one of its best starts in their school’s history with a 9-0 record. According to maxpreps.com, the Lady Bulls are ranked 21 in the state of Florida and fifth in the 6A Division. Bloomingdale made a huge statement win when they defeated defending state champion Plant 61-59 on a buzzer beater by Angelina Aberin in the second game of the season. The win gave them confidence that they can compete with anybody and has been a measuring stick for the rest of the season. The team chemistry and passion for the game is palpable with this group of players. “What I believe is making this season successful so far is how bonded we are as a team and the amount of work we put in to reaching our goals,” said junior guard Ava Knauer. “Five days a week, we have ‘break-
The Bloomingdale Lady Bulls basketball team is off to one of its best starts in their school’s history with a 9-0 record.
fast club’ where we get shots up and work on our weaknesses before school even starts each day.” The team has a nice mix of young and veteran talent. The junior class is their biggest with five student-athletes, many of whom have played major roles for the team in the last three seasons. They have four seniors as well. The Lady Bulls are a very deep and talented team that can play with up to 13 players in any given game. They wear their opponents out with their athleticism and constant ball pressure. The deep roster also allows the team to have tough, competitive practices that prepare the team for success. They will attack the rim with their dribble-drive offense and kick out to their shooters if the layup isn’t there, and they have bags that clean up the glass with ease if necessary. “What I enjoy most about playing for
Kyrstin Wolff can score inside the paint and outside the three-point line and is a leading rebounder.
Bloomingdale is that everyone is so close to each other and there’s great team chemistry,” said junior point guard Aissatou (Aissa) Diallo. “Whenever someone is down, there’s always going to be someone to pick you up—always. One thing that I’ve learned so far at Bloomingdale that I never thought about is that every game is the biggest game of the year. Anyone can beat anyone on any given night, especially when you have a target on your back.” Key players include senior point guard and co-captain Joline (JoJo) Raposo, junior guard Knauer, junior forward/center Kyrstin Wolff, junior point guard Diallo and senior guard and co-captain Kaylie Lewis. “Our goal is to win a district title because I know how much it will mean to our coach, and he truly deserves it,” said Raposo. “It would mean a lot for the team because of everything we’ve been through so far. I
Aissa Diallo is a key player, averaging 10.1 points per game.
know this is an expectation we all have for ourselves.” Bloomingdale is led by 11-year Head Coach Joel Bower, who is very excited about his team’s chances of winning its first district championship since 1995. Bower is impressed with his team’s work ethic and love of the game. His team mantra that he’s been preaching to his players is to enjoy the journey because the journey is the destination. There is no doubt that the Lady Bulls are the team to beat in District 6A-11. “I’m just excited for what the rest of the season will bring,” said Wolff. “Going through this with this team, my sisters, makes it even more exciting. Having such a deep bench, it doesn’t matter who is on the court, we are cheering. We know if one of us is down or off there will be another one there to pick us up. This group is closer than any team I’ve been on. It shows on and off the court.”
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TRACEY SELLERS
NEWSOME STANDOUTS SIGN TO PLAY D-I FOOTBALL AT EARLY SIGNING DAY Jason Albritton and age leader. The end goal Ryan Eckley were major is to progress and prove assets for the Newsome myself to be a next-level football program over player and get picked up the last four years. Their to the NFL.” commitment paid off, as Yockey likes Eckley’s they both achieved their chances of having a pro dreams of becoming Dicareer in the future. vision I athletes when “Ryan forced teams to they inked pen to paper drive the length of the during the early signing field with his ability to pin period on December 15. teams deep on punts and Running back Albritkicks,” said Yockey. “He Jason Albritton and Ryan Eckley were major assets for the Newton was a four-year has a chance to be an NFL some football program over the last four years. starter for the Wolves had been looking forward teams for the last four sea- Jason Albritton signed to play punter. He has a huge leg Ryan Eckley signed to play for for the University of South and carried the bulk on to for years.” sons as a starter. This season, and the ability to do great Michigan State. Florida. offense for the last three Newsome Head Football he had a 42.6-yards-per-punt things at the next level.” seasons. This past season, he led the team Coach Christian Yockey will miss coaching average and 36 touchbacks on kickoffs. Albritton looks forward to helping build with 226 carries for a team-high 1,405 both players. The kicker made 28 of 32 point-after at- the same consistency at USF that he did yards (6.2 yards per carry) and 14 touch“Both kids were great leaders and tempts and eight of 10 field goals, with a at Newsome. He is grateful for his coaches downs. Newsome finished 8-3 and made brought great energy to practice,” said long of 47 yards. Eckley has signed to play and teammates that helped him achieve the playoffs for the third season in a row. Yockey. Albritton’s legacy will be just how for Michigan State in the fall and will ma- his goals. Albritton has signed to play at the Uni- hard he practiced and played. “He was jor in kinesiology. “It’s a young program with a relatively versity of South Florida and will major in tough as nails and really wore defenses “Michigan State is the right fit for me new coach who is eager to have hardworkbusiness. out through an entire game. I know a lot because it really has a great college atmo- ing guys. I like the way their offense is run, “It’s something that I’ve been work- of coaches in our area will be happy to not sphere,” said Eckley. “The football games and I feel like I can be a good piece to the ing towards since I can remember,” said see No. 10 on a Newsome uniform,” Yockey are energetic, and it is definitely a fun puzzle,” said Albritton. “I’m really thankAlbritton. “I’ve known for a while now that added. place to be. I moved from the Midwest ful for all of the teammates and coaches USF was the place that I wanted to be. The Eckley was the team’s punter/kicker and and still have lots of family in the area. My who’ve helped me along the way. I couldn’t night they offered was something that I was the key cog for the Wolves on special goals are to become an NCAA punt aver- have done it without them.”
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Page 37
MOBILE EXAM VAN JOINS THE COMMUNITY By Libby Hopkins June Bryant of Riverview ing able to see and treat is a board-certified pediatric children at schools and nurse practitioner. “I have at their own home,” Brybeen practicing as a pediatric ant said. “This was such nurse practitioner in the Tama blessing to so many pa Bay area for the past nine families who would have years,” Bryant said. “I have to take time off of work deep roots in Manatee and or even find transportaHillsborough Counties and tion. Bringing this unique have raised model of health care to my own chiltheir driveway without dren here having to intrude on and have their own personal space a passion or subjecting them to June Bryant of Riverview long wait times in their for serving is a board-certified pediv u l n e ra b l e cars or in waiting rooms atric nurse practitioner. populations Bryant recently opened was something that I and bringher mobile exam van wanted to explore, and ing them the business called Dr. Joonie’s then we did.” health care Dr. Joonie’s ExamExaminavan. that they deserve.” inavan is a way to deBryant recently opened her mobile exam crease some of the barriers to health care van business called Dr. Joonie’s Examinavan. that Bryant sees for the pediatric population. “Dr. Joonie’s mission with opening a mobile “Being able to have patients schedule their clinic is to provide patients with the best and appointments online or via text brings the most accessible pediatric health care possi- convenience of not having to wait on hold,” ble from birth until 21 years of age,” Bryant Bryant said. “Online intake forms lead to less said. “I am dedicated to providing high-qual- paper. For those that don’t have this technolity health care by assuring that each patient ogy, staff are happy to help those over the receives individual, personal attention as phone or in person on the day of the appointwell as receiving that care in the comfort ment. We are unique in that there will not of their own home. At Dr. Joonie’s Examina- be another van such as this since we built van, we strive to work with the parents in an exam room into the back of a cargo van the local community to improve the lives of which functions just as one would in a clinour pediatric patients and their families. We ic. Another great factor is that Dr. Joonie’s provide advanced nursing clinical expertise Examinavan has the authorization from the to parents and work with other health pro- department of health to transport vaccines fessionals in the community to help provide to patients’ homes for administration at their the best care for even the smallest members home.” of our community.” If you would like to learn more about This mobile exam van has been a dream of Bryant’s mobile exam van or if you’d like to Bryant’s since before the recent COVID-19 schedule an appointment, you can visit her pandemic. “I was a school nurse practitioner website at www.drjoonies.com. for a couple of years and loved the role of be-
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
SPECIAL BLUEGRASS NIGHT OFFERED AT KRAZY KUP IN JANUARY Krazy Kup, an auhas received 22 thentic coffee house IBMA Awards located in historic and has been downtown Plant City, nominated for a is offering a very speGRAMMY three cial Bluegrass Night times. on Thursday, JanuWalker, of local ary 6. Krazy Kup will band The Walker present Bennett, Lane, Brothers, plays Walker and Friends in the banjo, guitar, concert for one night Krazy Kup in historic downtown Plant City will host mandolin and a special Bluegrass Night featuring Bennett, Lane, beginning at 7 p.m. Walker and Friends on Thursday, January 6 at 7 p.m. other instruments. The show will take He has played with place in Krazy Kup’s upstairs entertainment Ricky Scaggs, Sierra Hull, Joe Diffie and area known as the Loft. more, and he was named IBMA Momentum This is a unique opportunity for fans of Banjo Player of the Year in 2014. bluegrass to see and hear three award-winTickets for this fabulous, one-night-only ning, GRAMMY-nominated artists playing concert are $25. You can get tickets intogether for an extra special Bluegrass house at Krazy Kup or on Eventbrite. Night concert. Krazy Kup is owned and operated by Bennett, Lane, Walker and Friends con- Frank and Wenda Trunzo. Frank has always sists of Richard Bennett, Shawn Lane and had a deep love of music, so it is only natural Cory Walker. All three are renowned blue- that Krazy Kup should be such a fantastic grass musicians. They will come together venue for live music. for a night of Bluegrass that you will be In addition to offering delicious espresso talking about long after the last note is drinks, fantastic baked goods and delightful played. wraps, Krazy Kup also offers up the Loft for Bennett is a guitarist, vocalist, song- a multitude of opportunities. Throughout writer and record producer. He performed the month, attendees are treated to live muwith Neil Diamond for 17 years. He has also sic (bluegrass, contemporary Christian and worked with Billy Joel, Barbara Streisand more), movie trivia nights, movies, open mic and Vince Gill, and he is a two-time GRAM- night, painting events and bluegrass jams. MY-nominated artist. Krazy Kup is located at 101 E. J. Arden Lane is an award-winning mandolin and Mays Blvd. in Plant City. For more informafiddle player, vocalist and songwriter. He tion, please visit www.krazykup.com.
Page 39
TAMPA THEATRE BRINGS BACK WINEFEST FUNDRAISER THIS MARCH Tampa Theatre’s Theatre will pressignature fundent a two-tiered raiser, WineFest, wine tasting. is staging a triumGuests get to taste phant return to the dozens of boutique center ring in March wines and sample 2022 with The favorite fare from Grapest Showman. Tampa’s top indeBut, before the pendent restaubig event, Tampa rants. The event Theatre is offering begins at 7 p.m. Tampa Theatre’s popular movie-themed wine a special sing-along There will be an weekend, based on the 2017 hit The Greatest Showscreening of the opportunity to bid man, supports ‘A Million Dreams’ of programming 2017 smash-hit The and preservation for the iconic historic landmark. on premium silent Greatest Showman auction items repat 7:30 p.m. on Friday, February 18. Fans resenting Bay area retailers, restaurants, of all ages can “follow the bouncing top services and attractions. hat” and add their voices to the flying cirThe Premium Tasting starts at 7 p.m. cus of fantastic songs on-screen at what and features exclusive wines for a limithas become the most requested, most ed audience. Tickets for this are $100, or successful sing-along in Tampa Theatre’s $90 for Tampa Theatre members. history. You can also opt for the Grand Tasting, Tickets are $13 for general admission which begins at 8 p.m. Tickets for this are and $10 for Tampa Theatre members. $65, or $55 for Tampa Theatre members. WineFest, which is for those 21 years WineFest is the theater’s biggest anand older, will kick off on Friday, March nual fundraiser. It was forced to skip the 25 at 7 p.m. with an elegant wine pairing. event in 2021 due to the pandemic. Event Guests will enjoy a multicourse menu cre- Chair Rachel Radawec said, “It goes withated and catered by Mise en Place Chef out saying that the past two years have Marty Blitz. The menu will feature small been rough.” Radawec added, “But from plates paired with wines. There will also now on, we are focused on our 100th be a live auction including once-in-a-life- birthday in 2026, and ‘A Million Dreams’ time trips, exclusive experiences and a for our second century.” high-stakes wine pull. Tickets are $300 You can get tickets at the historic for individuals and $595 for a pair. Franklin Street Box Office and online at Then, on Saturday, March 26, Tampa www.tampatheatre.org/winefest.
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Page 40
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
RESIDENT DONATES OVER 20 GALLONS OF CAN TABS FOR THE SHRINERS FOR CHILDREN
By Makenzie Atkins
Local commuover to me, nity member Vera and I clean Baker has been them and orcollecting soda can ganize them tabs in Florida for into gallon over 15 years. bottles.” Along with the W h e n help of her friends, talking about neighbors and felthe prolow Moose Lodge cess, Baker members, Baker expressed has collected over a heartfelt 20 gallons of can thank you tabs. Once she colto all of her lects the tabs, she friends and donates them to Vera Baker, with the help of friends and neighbors, has n e i g h b o r s the local Shriners who help her been collecting, cleaning and organizing can tabs in Club, which then Ruskin for over 15 years. Pictured: George Banes, Baker collect the and Jim Porrett. recycles them can tabs for a and donates all the money to Shriners cause so near to her heart. Healthcare for Children. The Sun City Center Shriners Club was After losing her son, Baker moved to founded in 1963 under the auspices of Ruskin with her husband and began col- Egypt Shrine of Tampa, FL. Shriners Inlecting tabs for a neighbor to take with ternational is a fraternity based on fun, them to donate in their hometown. How- fellowship and the Masonic principles ever, when she found out there was a lo- of brotherly love, relief and truth with cal Shriners Club in Sun City Center, she nearly 200 temples (chapters) in several decided to get more involved. countries and thousands of clubs around As others saw her eagerness to donate the world. her time to such a noble cause, many The fraternity has supported Shriners neighbors and friends began to collect Hospital since it was founded in 1922. tabs as well. Baker is continuously over- Shriners Hospital for Children specializjoyed by the fact that so many are will- es in pediatric care with a mission to iming to join in and help with collecting, prove the lives of children and families. separating and dropping off tabs. With a focus on orthopedics, pediatric “Everybody knows I collect tabs now; I surgery, spine and spinal cord and sports have one couple that has two barrels on medicine, the local Shriners Hospital is their porch, one for can tabs and the oth- located on the campus of the University er for the cans,” said Baker. “When they of South Florida in Tampa. have friends over, they all separate the For more information, call 812-7170 or can from the tab and then bring them visit www.sccshrineclub.com.
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Page 41
STRAWBERRY CREST GRAD KENZIE WHEELER TAKES CENTER STAGE ON THE VOICE
By Hayley Fedor
What does the fox say? Florida is home to both the red and gray fox. The often-elusive gray fox can be found throughout the state. For their habitat, they prefer covered, wooded areas away from civilization. The gray fox on average weighs around 7-14 pounds and often has a reddish tint to its otherwise gray-colored fur. This red fur sometimes leads to the misidentification of the gray fox for a red fox. An interesting fact that makes the gray fox unique is that they can climb trees, a trait not often found in the canine family, which has garnered them their nickname: the tree fox. In comparison, the red fox, which can be easily identified by their rusty-red coat, black-tipped ears and legs, white underbelly and bushy tail, can also be found around the state as a naturalized and established species. Red foxes are more commonly seen as they tend to avoid the dense, wooded habitat that the gray foxes prefer. Averaging weights of 10-15 pounds, the red fox is about the same size as a small breed of domestic dog. Both species of fox are members of the canine family. They are mostly nocturnal animals which feed primarily on small mammals such as rabbits, squirrels, rats and mice, as well as small birds, fish, insects, berries and fruit. Foxes are most
commonly observed at their feeding times at dawn or dusk, though nursing females can also be seen in the middle of the day if foraging while her babies, called pups, rest. These curious mammals give birth to an average of three to five pups that are born and raised in dens. Both the red and gray fox can either dig their own dens or take over a preexisting burrow made by other animals such as gopher tortoises or armadillos. Mothers raise their young for an average of two to six months and most breeding pairs will mate for life. Foxes are beneficial to us and our ecosystem. They are a natural form of pest control that stabilizes populations of small animals like rats and rabbits. Foxes pose little to no threat to humans or pets in general and should never be approached or fed. To deter wildlife from your home, keep garbage and pet food secured and never intentionally feed wild animals. Small pets should never be left unattended. Coexisting with wildlife can be safe, enjoyable and preserved for generations to come. Ali Holton is currently director of FishHawk TNR, Inc. She has a masters in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation.
room on our old stereo, Local music so that’s kind of where it favorite Kenzie came from. Since I was Wheeler went on little, I’ve always loved to become runner country music,” said up in season 20 of Wheeler. The Voice. He reBorn and raised in the cently signed his Dover area, Wheeler befirst record and came involved in the commanagement deal munity through music as with Five 5 Group he got older, singing kaand is collaboratraoke both at home and ing on his second at Uncle Mike’s Bar and album set to be Grill in Plant City weekly released soon. He during high school. This also recently won Kenzie Wheeler holding his Team Kelly jacket, led to many other opporthe 2021 Keith which he received after choosing Kelly Clarkson as tunities for Wheeler, like Whitley Fingerprint his coach on The Voice. releasing his own album on Country Music titled Dover in 2018. Awards Torch Award and His journey with The Voice bewill be performing at the gan last year with a video perFlorida Strawberry Festiformance he sent to the show, val in Plant City on March which led to his first audition in 7 at 7:30 p.m. His music can be found on Apple Music, Spotify, and North Carolina and then in California for the blind auditions in front of The Voice judges. other services. When it came down to choosing a coach, Original Story Printed April 2021 With his classic, old-time country voice, Kelly Clarkson became a clear choice for Southern charm and the ultimate mullet Wheeler, given that Blake Shelton had been to match, Dover resident and Strawberry blocked and Clarkson had won with two Crest High School 2016 graduate Kenzie country artists before on the show. During the audition, Shelton made an unWheeler took his chances auditioning on NBC’s singing competition, The Voice, and forgettable reference to Wheeler’s mullet, blew the judges away. His performance calling him a “unicorn” with “the party in the of Keith Whitley’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes” back, he’s got the shaved sides, but then the caused not just one, but all four judges to rare widow’s peak.” Inspired by his dad and a few of his friends with mullets, Wheeler turn their chairs in approval. Wheeler’s passion for singing and coun- decided to grow his out a few years back try music stems from his mother’s love for and now it is part of his identity; plus, his the genre which she passed on to him over fans love it. Be sure to keep an eye out for Wheeler’s the years. “Growing up listening in the car and my next performance on The Voice, which will mom would always play CDs in the living air on NBC in the upcoming weeks.
Page 42
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2021
BELL SHOALS, 3.1-MILE ROAD WIDENING UPDATE
By Brian Bokor
The project to widen the 3.1-mile stretch of Bell Shoals Rd. from Boyette Rd. north to Bloomingdale Ave. is moving along.
Construction on Bell Shoals Rd. has been moving along steadily in 2021. According to Hillsborough County Senior Media Relations Strategist Chris Wilkerson, the contractor is currently working on the new northbound roadway from south of Glenhaven to Rosemead and the southbound roadway from north of Rosemead to north of Bloomingdale. “These sections are anticipated to be completed in July,” he said. “Additionally, the new southbound bridge over Bell Shoals is under construction and should be completed by the end of 2022.” According to Wilkerson, completion of entire project is projected to be in January 2023. Original Story Printed June 2021 Work accomplished to date on the 3.1-mile stretch of Bell Shoals Rd. from Boyette Rd. north to Bloomingdale Ave. has been primarily associated with land clearing, utility relocation and retention pond construction necessary to accommodate the new fourlane divided highway. But more changes are ahead on this major project. Drivers traveling from Boyette Rd. to-
wards Bloomingdale Ave. will notice the northbound Alafia bridge addition, including bike lanes and sidewalks, now under construction. Once this northbound portion of the bridge has been completed, traffic will shift and the existing southbound lanes will undergo similar renovations. Expect bridgework to be completed mid to late 2022. The large cleared area north of the bridge on the east side will become one of several retention ponds necessary for drainage of excess water runoff created by the project, with additional areas located adjacent to the south of Three Bulls plaza, between Rosemead Ln. and Jiffy Lube, as well as north of the Bloomingdale Ave. intersection on the west side. When asked why so many ponds were needed and what the estimated timeframe was from this point going forward, Hillsborough County Design Manager of the Capital Programs Department Sandra González, P.E. told me the retention areas were a statutory requirement. “The ponds are designed to hold a certain amount of rainfall that is determined by the
amount of impervious area (asphalt and concrete) that is being constructed,” she said. “The project began on schedule in late 2018 and is set to be completed on schedule by December 2022.” An idea of what a typical cross section of the new road will look like when complete can been seen between Bloom Hill Ave. and Three Bulls plaza, where the majority of engineering work is done. The design features 6 ft. wide sidewalks, curbs and gutters; 4 ft. wide bike paths; and two 12 ft. wide lanes on either side of a fully landscaped, raised center median. The median from Glenhaven Dr. to Rosemead Ln. will be fully irrigated and maintained by the Bloomingdale Special Taxing District through a formal maintenance agreement with the county. This will allow the district control of landscaping upkeep and design, which is still in the formative stages. The median from Glenhaven Dr. south to Boyette Rd. will be nonirrigated and maintained by the county. From Glenhaven Dr. north to Bloomingdale Ave., utility relocation is ongoing, with the
challenges ahead focused around completing the remaining northbound lane sections, renovating the existing southbound sections and widening the four signalized intersections at Glenhaven Dr., Rosemead Ln., Starwood Ave. and Bloomingdale Ave. Maps of each neighborhood entrance located along Bell Shoals Rd. in the work zone can be found by visiting HCFLGov.net/CountyProjects, clicking on “Government” (top of page), then “County Projects” and then “Highlighted CIP Projects,” where you’ll find the link to the Bell Shoals Road Widening project with detailed maps available there for every community. Please contact Public Works at 635-5400 with any additional questions. The Bloomingdale intersection will be expanded to include dual left-turn lanes, dual center-thru lanes and single right-turn lanes for drivers headed in either direction on Bell Shoals Rd., which should alleviate some congestion, along with the retiming of the traffic signals at Rosemead Ln. and Starwood Ave. to allow for a smooth flow of traffic through this busy area.
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January 2022
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Page 43
Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2021 NEW BOARD BRINGS CENTER PLACE OF BRANDON BACK TO LIFE
By Libby Hopkins
According to ter Place board Center Place Execbecause [it was] utive Director Libby instrumental in seHopkins, the orgacuring the facility nization has been that became Cenmoving forward at ter Place,” Tompa great pace since kins said. reopening in March Local lawyer of last year. “We Mike Owens had have added new, fond memories of free programming Center Place from to include a kinderhis childhood, so garten readiness that is why he program, two art therapy prowanted to be a part of the board. grams for children and a veterans’ “While I can clearly say God did art therapy programming,” said not bless me with artistic talent, Hopkins. I love the arts and what Center Center Place is also working Place stands for,” Owens said. with local artist and makers to of“I grew up across the street at fer their creations in Pat’s Corner, South Brandon Little League. which is Center Place’s gift shop. We had our All-Star Banquets “We want to encourage shopping at Center Place and many othlocal at Center Place, and that is er events that I hold dear to my why we have made Pat’s Corner heart.” a makers’ market,” said Hopkins. Bernadette Pello, founder of Stay tuned for more new and Livingstone Academy, wanted Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association’s new board members, Tom Odiorne, Ryan Odiorne, exciting things coming to Center to be a part of the board because Todd Allen, J.J. Massaro, Mike Owens, Betty Jo Tompkins, Bernadette Pello, JoAnn Shea and Place in 2022. she feels it’s a pillar of the Brandon Claudia Yake have joined forces to bring the heart of the Brandon Community back to life. community. “Center Place is one of Original Story Printed February alive?” said Tom Odiorne. ty needs Center Place,” Allen said. the pillars in the Brandon commu2021 Patricia Odiorne was the creator of CenLocal business owner J.J. Massaro want- nity and I am excited and honored to serve Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association has been a part of the Brandon community ter Place. Her sons, Tom and Ryan Odiorne, ed to be a part of the new board because an organization that serves our community for more than 44 years and has been known are just two of the board members who he couldn’t imagine our community without in such a unique way,” Pello said. came on board to breathe life back into Cen- it. “Center Place has always held a special Board members JoAnn Shea and Claudia as the “heart and art” of the community. The community was shocked in March ter Place. “We’re here to make sure Center place in the heart of our community, so we Yake have strong ties to Center Place. The board has been working with Hills2020 to learn that Center Place was closing Place survives,” Board President Ryan said. needed to step in and save it.” Betty Jo Tompkins is well known through- borough County to secure an opening date, its doors for good. The pandemic, yet again, “We need to have this building be here for future generations.” out the Brandon community and she is on which should be released in the coming took a local landmark. Local realtor Todd Allen is also one of the the board because she wanted to keep the weeks. Many people came together to save the new board members. “Center Place benefits history of Center Place alive. “I’m thrilled to To learn more about Center Place, visit heart and art of the community. “This is my our community and right now the communihave the opportunity to serve on the Cen- www.centerplacebrandon.org. mother’s legacy, so why wouldn’t we keep it
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Page 44
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2021 PORTION OF STATE ROAD 60 RENAMED IN HONOR OF FALLEN HCSO SGT. BRIAN LAVIGNE By Tatiana Ortiz
In November, nated honorRepresentative ing fallen law Andrew Learned, enforcement along with other officers. Sgt. members of the LaVigne along Florida Legislature, with Dep. MiHillsborough Counchael Magli ty Sheriff Chad with the PiChronister and nellas County Hillsborough CounSheriff’s Office ty Commissioner and Master Kimberly Overman, Patrol Officer honored the late Jesse MadSergeant Brian Deputy Caitlin LaVigne stands with her father Cor- sen with the LaVigne during poral Brian LaVigne while he received an award at Tampa Police the Alafia River Chapter NSDAR. an unveiling of his Department road plaque in the portion of SR 60 from were also recognized with commemorative Philip Lee Blvd. to I-75, which now has his roadway namings in the signing of the bill. name. “We commemorated three heroes who “Sergeant Brian LaVigne will never be made the ultimate sacrifice to protect their forgotten, and this will serve as another communities,” Gov. DeSantis said. “Serving reminder of his selfless service to his com- in law enforcement is a noble calling and munity until the very end of his life,” said deserves nothing less than our full support Chronister at the ceremony. “Now when and respect. These were the type of men people drive down this stretch of road- we need in law enforcement,” he added. way, they will be reminded of the legacy As of July 1, State Road 60 between and impact left by Sergeant LaVigne.”” Interstate 75 and Phillip Lee Boulevard in Hillsborough County is now designated as Original Story Printed August 2021 On January 11, 2021, Sgt. Brian LaVigne “Sergeant Brian LaVigne Road.” The two additional renamed roadways was killed in the line of duty while assistinclude County Road 611 between Keying his fellow Hillsborough County Sheriff’s stone Road and Forelock Road in Pinellas Department officers on a service call in County now known as “Deputy Michael Brandon. An individual, fleeing from law J. Magli Memorial Road.” And, Interstate enforcement, struck Sgt. Brian LaVigne’s 275 between East Sligh Avenue and East vehicle which caused injuries which ultiDr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard in is mately took his life. Sgt. LaVigne, a 31-year now known as “Officer Jesse Madsen Meveteran of the department was one shift morial Highway.” from retirement when he was struck and “I am honored to make sure these brave killed. heroes are never forgotten. May God grant On June 18, Governor Ron DeSantis their families and coworkers peace and signed Senate Bill 1716, which is an act comfort,” Hooper said. relating to transportation facilities desig-
LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER RUNS FOR BRANDON HONORARY MAYOR By Kate Quesada FishHawk resident and local Business order to rehabilitate and rehome them to Owner Melissa Canfield was named hon- loving families in our area. orary mayor in July after campaigning “I am super excited to work hard for by holding events and raising funds for these two amazing charities this year,” weeks. She presented checks from her said Canfield. “Two amazing organizations fundraising to the that I am proud to charities she ran be associated with. to benefit. Raining Kids and pets, two Cats and Dogs Shelthings we all love. ter & Sanctuary and I especially apRotary’s Camp Florpreciate the fact ida each received that each organiza$16,612.50; Cantion has a specific field’s sponsoring need which we are 501(c)(3), the Valriworking to fulfill.” co FishHawk ChamCanfield’s goal is ber of Commerce, to help Camp Roreceived $4,430; tary repair boards and The Community and railings along Roundtable, which its docks. organizes the event, “This is necesreceived $6,645. sary so children Original Story can safely access Printed June 2021 the water area, and One of Brandon’s that is something Lithia resident Melissa Canfield, co-owner of Himost well-loved tra- Tech Automotive, is running for Honorary Mayor we can help with diditions is kicking off rectly,” she said. of Brandon. next month. The annual Honorary MayThe funds she hIn order to raise the or’s Race, which is made up of fundrais- funds, Canfield has organized a number ing opportunities for local charities, will of events that will take place throughout take place throughout June with only one June. candidate, Melissa Canfield, co-owner of “There will also be a bowling tournaHiTech Automotive. ment, bunco night, Cruella movie night Canfield, who has lived in Lithia since and I have even heard of a potential Elvis 2001, will be raising funds for Camp Ro- sighting,” said Canfield, who is planning tary, an outdoor camp offering special to end the month with a strictly online needs children a traditional summer camp bidding auction from Wednesday, June experience, and Raining Cats and Dogs 30 to Friday, July 2. For more, search for Animal Shelter, which cares for local pets ‘Melissa4BrandonMayor’ on Facebook or that are sick or have been abandoned in visit www.valricofishhawk.org.
January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 45
Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2021 BULLSEYE: BLOOMINGDALE BASEBALL TEAM HITS THE MARK, WINS STATE TITLE
By Nick Nahas
Bowen, who was arguably the heart and soul of the Bulls, was in the middle of the order, hitting fourth with a .382 batting average and a team high 25 runs batted in. It was Bowen’s first season as a starting varsity player after sitting behind star slugging outfielder Dominic Gonnella. He started the season hitting at the botThe Bloomingdale Bulls Varsity Baseball team won their first state tom of the order before championship. “This team didn’t need coaches to keep them focused, later breaking through in the team encouraged each other,” said Coach Wilson. a big way. He had the key The Bloomingdale High School baseball hit against Fleming Island with a triple over team is looking forward to defending their the left fielder’s head, driving in two runs and championship in the spring. Five players extending the Bull’s lead to 4-0 in the third from the team have signed to play baseball inning. in college, including Colby Shelton (UniverAfter beating St. Petersburg High School sity of Alabama), Drake Harman (Santa Fe 3-2 in the district championship, BloomingCollege), Jack Owen (Stetson University), dale (24-6) had a string of close wins leading Stephen Montgomery (Iowa Western Uni- up to the state final. They had a 7-4 comeback versity) and Chase Chappell (Santa Fe Col- victory against Gaither High School after lege). trailing 4-1 early on, defeated Mitchell High Original Story Printed July 2021 School 2-1 and finished off Gulf Coast High The Bloomingdale High School baseball School 4-3 to claim their first regional title program made history, winning its first state since 2014. The Bulls used stellar defense, title. The Bulls defeated Fleming Island High great base running and timely hitting to beat School 5-1 in the FHSAA Class 6A State Dwyer High School to reach their first state Championship on May 22 at Hammond Sta- title game since the team came up a little bit dium in Fort Myers. short against South Dade High School in the “I instantly felt a rush of adrenaline as 2014 state championship game. soon as he hit the fly ball my way, and once The Bulls are expected to make another it was in my glove, I just thought, ‘We did run for the title next season with 16 returnit,’” said senior outfielder Marlon Bowen, ing players, including shortstop and Clemson who took home MVP honors with his 4-for- University commit Colby Shelton, ace pitch5 weekend. “It was only excitement going er and Stetson University commit Jack Owthrough my head.” ens and leadoff hitter Drake Harman.
COMMUNITY DONATIONS HELP KEEP FOOD BANKS STRONG By Michelle Caceres unteers who stepped up, so many in our community who couldn’t help who gave financially, and for me personally, being on the front lines, seeing the tears of gratitude from the people we help made it all worth it.” Original Story Printed February 2021 As 2021 begins, the need for food assistance is greater than ever, but thanks to local businesses, individuals and families, Seeds of Hope is receiving support from the community. The Rutledge family, owners of FishHawk Pinch A Penny (located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in the Winn-Dixie shopping center across from Newsome High School), the local neighborhood full-serSeeds of Hope is grateful for the support of the local vice pool store, recently made a $5,000 community, including FishHawk Pinch A Penny, donation to the food bank. which made a $5,000 donation to the food bank. “We have been fortunate at FishHawk In 2021, Seeds of Hope helped feed and Pinch A Penny to have been able to consupport more families in need than ever tinue to operate when others have not due before. The 2021 FishHawk Turkey Trot to the pandemic,” said Jim Rutledge. “We raised $50,000 for the Backpacks of Hope have been blessed and wanted to give back program, which is run out of Randall Mid- to our community to help those in need.” dle School, and a total 25,000 boxes of And there is plenty of need in the comfood, which are distributed on Thursday munity. evenings at the food bank on BloomingdaSeeds of Hope has three main ways of le Ave. distributing food: through a mobile food “Seeds of Hope has responded to multi- pantry for local residents, through a weekly ple disasters over the years, but the pan- food distribution every Thursday from 5-7 demic has been particularly challenging,” p.m. at its food bank at 710 E. Bloomingdale said Seeds of Hope Founder Leda Eaton. Ave. that’s open to all and through the back“Because we are in food relief, we were pack of food program coordinated with lodeemed essential, but because we were cal schools. all-volunteer, I didn’t know how volunFor more information about Seeds of teers or the community would support our Hope and its current needs, to make a finanefforts. Now, almost two years in, I’ve got cial contribution or to volunteer your time to say I’m beyond proud of so many vol- at the food bank, visit www.sohopefl.org.
Page 46
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
Year In Review-Updates On The Top Stories From 2021 NEWSOME GIRLS FLAG FOOTBALL TEAM COMPETES IN NFL SUPER BOWL EXPERIENCE SHOWCASE
By Nick Nahas
title. Original Story Printed March 2021 The upstart Newsome High School girls flag football program was one of four teams chosen by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Foundation to participate in an exhibition showcase at the NFL Super Bowl Experience in Julian B. The Newsome flag football team was one of four chosen to compete in the NFL Lane Park on the week Super Bowl Experience exhibition. of Super Bowl LV. The Wolves received After an amazing experience playing at the Super Bowl Experience, the Newsome $100,000 worth of new equipment from High School Girls Flag Football team went Nike and the NFL as a part of the $5 milon to win the Class 2A FHSAA State lion grant that will go towards girls flag Championships in May. Quarterback and football programs throughout the country. safety Devyn Silvestri took home MVP Nike equipped them with new uniforms, cleats, sports bras, compression shorts honors. After beating Lennard to win the dis- and headbands. According to Nike, one trict championship, the Wolves went million more boys play high school sports on an historic playoff run, dispatching than girls do. This campaign hopes to of state powerhouse and two-time de- make girls flag football a varsity sport and fending state champions Alonso Ravens spread it throughout the country, as it is 27-0 and taking care of business against one of the fastest growing female sports. crosstown rival Bloomingdale 20-19 in Currently, only six states have girls flag the regional final to send them to states football programs at the high school level, in Jacksonville where the Wolves soundly including Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, defeated Navarre High School 33-18 and Nevada and New York. The Wolves are especially hungry for won a very close game in the state chamtheir first district title since 2011, and a pionship against Western High School run at a state title, because their last sea20-19, capping off a school-record 20-1 son was canceled due to COVID-19. season and, more importantly, the state
WEREWOLF MOVIE TO FILM IN FISHHAWK, EXTRAS NEEDED By Michelle Caceres ern Gothic werewolf feature film produced by Ed McKeever, directed by Robert Masciantonio and stars actors Michael Ashley McKeever, Kylissa Katalinich and Charles Bronson-dead ringer Robert Bronzi as Andras the Hunter. The story is a modernization of the boy who cried wolf and revolves around a young podcaster (Michael) who has a penchant for investigating paranormal phenomena, serial killers and conspiracy theIndependent film The Beast Comes At Mid- ories. He discovers his town is under attack night will be filmed at various locations this by a flesh-eating beast that hunts during the full moon. Nobody believes him except for a summer, including Lithia. The Beast Comes at Midnight will pre- popular cheerleader (Katalinich) and a monmier locally this spring. According to Exec- ster hunter (Bronzi). The concept was born after Ed and his son, utive Producer Ed McKeever, there will be a Michael, visited the Showmen’s Museum in red-carpet event to launch the movie. FilmGibsonton, a building that houses strange ing wrapped up in late 2021, with scenes and eclectic memorabilia from the colorful taking place in The Love Lodge in Lithia carnival and circus midways of the past. and the Parkside Village community in Fish“My son and I saw a display about a WolfHawk Ranch. boy and started envisioning a monster movie “The folks there were fantastic,” said set among the backdrop of this place,” said McKeever. “They allowed use of all their Ed. “We wanted to make a horror movie we streets like our own private Hollywood could watch together, so we were going for backlot. Some even came out and pera fun PG-13 vibe.” formed as background players in the movie. The film will be distributed by Briefcase Overall, it was a great experience.” Pictures, a media and content creation Original Story Printed April 2021 company located in Tampa Bay and formed While FishHawk residents may be surin partnership with Todd Oifer of Oifer Inprised to hear a werewolf will be lurking dustries, George C. Romero (son of the late through their quiet residential neighborhood George A. Romero of Night of the Living this July, what they shouldn’t feel is terrified Dead zombie series) of Romero Pictures, or concerned. LLC and Ed. It also includes New York-based The hairy beast is one of the main characters in an old-school monster movie that DIGA Studio and Massachussetts-based will be filming in FishHawk and several oth- Heavy Metal magazine. Visit www.thebeastcomesatmidnight.com er locations in Hillborough County, including or to follow it on social media. Visit www. Tampa, Ybor City and Gibsonton. briefcasepictures.com. The Beast Comes at Midnight is a SouthPrivate Charters: 4 hour, 6 hour, 8 hour & 2.5 hour Sunset Cruises. Cruising the Alafia River and Tampa Bay.
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January 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 47
Page 48
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 1
