Bloomingdale/FishHawk
39
June 2021
Volume 20,
Issue 6
Ph: 657-2418
See Page 40
CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
ORTHOPAEDIC MEDICAL GROUP OF TAMPA BAY COMES TO FISHHAWK By Brian Bokor
A new Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay complex is under construction in FishHawk.
The large concrete block structure FishHawk residents have been watching take shape at the corner of Circa Crossing Dr. and Mosaic Dr. in Lithia, adjacent to Kids ‘R’ Kids child care facility, will be the new home of Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay (OMG). The growing operation will utilize the nearly 4-acre FishHawk location as its headquarters. The doctor’s office in Brandon (615 Vonderburg Rd.) as well as administrative office in Valrico will be consolidated as part of the project under newly named CEO Dr. Scott Goldsmith. Headed by OMG’s development team of Dr. Jeff Watson and William Romaniello (director of business development and sports medicine), the 37,000-square-foot complex with parking capacity for 196 vehicles is estimated to have construction completed, offices occupied and procedures performed by the end of this year. Romaniello noted the complex will include “administrative offices, which will be the hub for all our administrative operations, including our billing and service center, the outpatient surgery center, and the orthopedic medical office [and] outpatient physical therapy office. Daily, we will have approximately 50-75 employees, with the capacity to add staff as we continue to grow our business.” Additionally, the complex will include the Dr. Stuart Goldsmith conference center, dedicated
BLOOMINGDALE BULLS BASEBALL BRING HOME ITS FIRST STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE
By Hayley Fedor
On the south side of Hillsborough Counthe River Hills property Neighborhood ty lies 200-plus acres Relations to build of woodland preserve a fitness track with that runs right up to features such as the Alafia River, which pull-up bars and sitfor many years went up stations. untouched and unex“We wanted to plored, until a group ensure that this is of residents cracked going to be enduropen the natural oasis. ing and stay here The project began for a long time, so last January after we’ve always had River Hills resident that in the back of Stefan Smith and his our minds,” said kids went out to exTroyer. plore the woods in an One of the primary trail developers, Sean Troyer, Currently, the attempt to reach the piecing together the 430-foot boardwalk found on Trail Team is workAlafia River. From that ing towards prothe Orange Trail. point on, more community members began ducing informational plaques with QR codes to get involved in the excursion and started to provide hikers with fun and educational developing trails. facts about the nature around them while At first, the ‘Trail Team,’ as they call it, on the trails. Please visit www.trailsrh.com which is comprised of about 10 residents for additional information. heavily involved in the trails’ development, took to the woods with machetes and weed whackers to start clearing the way for paths. After the initial brush removal, the team started surveying the land to create a more wholesome design for the trails. “We just started openly really brainstorming from whatever was in our imagination about having a few different types of trails that have maybe different personalities,” said Sean Troyer, a resident of River Hills and one of the primary developers of the trails. There are over four miles of trails with entrances at different areas in River Hills and six different trail paths that all have a unique character to them, including an extremely primitive trail for the more adventurous hikers. “I think our initial crew is also kind of cool … we came together and one of our guys is a geologist, an engineer, I do data analytics … it was a mixed bag of skills,” said Smith. Much of the initial funding came from the community members, themselves fueled by a passion for the project and a motivation CANFIELD FOR MAYOR ......................PG 3 to build a quality experience on the trails. MOTORING TAMPA BAY ................... PG 5 Later, as the project grew in size, the HOA EYE ON BUSINESS...................PGS 25-26 board stepped in to offer extra funding. Now, the team has received a grant from SPORTS ....................................................PG 47
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to the founder of OMG, which has been in operation since 1978. OMG is working in conjunction with Surgical Development Systems, Inc. (SDSI), based out of Jupiter, FL on the 12,000-square-foot Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC), which will be providing outpatient surgery focused on sports-related injuries, total joint replacements and general orthopedic procedures. Four state-of-the-art operating rooms utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as robotics to assist with procedures will work in conjunction with the physical therapy office, allowing OMG to give its patients the most complete care available. On-site specialists will include doctors in the fields of orthopedics, podiatry, and ophthalmology. The ophthalmology department will be headed by Dr. Haroon Ilyas. Dr. Ilyas is a cornea specialist and one of Tampa Bay’s leading cataract and refractive surgeons. Speaking with staff podiatrist and FishHawk resident Dr. Patrick Donovan, the move to the new facility will offer patients the opportunity to have all aspects of their procedures handled at the same location, from diagnosis to surgery to rehabilitation, on any part of the skeletal frame from head to toe. For more information, visit www. omgtb.com.
RIVER HILLS COMMUNITY MEMBERS BAND TOGETHER, WIN GRANT, TO DEVELOP FOUR MILES OF TRAILS ON PROPERTY
Bloomingdale Senior High School Bulls Baseball Varsity Team brings home the FHSAA Class 6A State Championship Title May 22 in Fort Myers. Bloomingdale Bulls beat the Orange Park Fleming Island High School Eagles defeating them 5-1. Head Coach Kris Wilken, close to bringing home the trophy in 2014, finishing his 14th year with a 25-6 season, celebrating with Principal Dr. Marcos Rodriguez, Assistant Principal Sara Bogue and team. Photo courtesy of Mike Camunas, 813Preps.
06/01/2021
Page 2
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
June 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 3
LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER RUNS FOR BRANDON HONORARY MAYOR
RANDALL STUDENT THROWS FIRST PITCH AT RAYS GAME
One of Brandon’s most well-loved tradi- Cats and Dogs Animal Shelter will go to tions is kicking off next month. The annual help increase the shelter unit size by 45 anHonorary Mayor’s Race, which is made up imals by utilizing a large, covered, indoor/ of fundraising opportunities for local char- outdoor area for the smaller dogs, thereby ities, will take place throughout June with allowing it the opportunity to help more only one candidate, dogs and, while in its Melissa Canfield, care, give the dogs co-owner of HiTech the ability to be both Automotive. outside and inside. Canfield, who has In order to raise lived in Lithia since the funds, Canfield 2001, will be raising has organized a funds for Camp Rotanumber of events ry, an outdoor camp that will take place offering special needs throughout June. children a traditional “We have somesummer camp expething for everyone,” rience, and Raining she said. “We are Cats and Dogs Animal going to have a Shelter, which cares grand kick-off on for local pets that June 1 at JF Kicks are sick or have been at 6 p.m. where abandoned in order there will be raffles to rehabilitate and reand door prices, and home them to loving Lithia resident Melissa Canfield, co-owner of they are donating HiTech Automotive, is running for Honorary families in our area. back 10 percent of Mayor of Brandon. “I am super excited all the proceeds from to work hard for these two amazing chari- that night.” ties this year,” said Canfield. “Two amazing Her team is also planning a Michael Kors organizations that I am proud to be asso- Bingo June 22 at the Regent with The ciated with. Kids and pets, two things we George Shea Team as the signature sponall love. sor for the event. I especially appreciate the fact that each “There will also be a bowling tournaorganization has a specific need which we ment, bunco night, Cruella movie night are working to fulfill.” and I have even heard of a potential Elvis Canfield’s goal is to help Camp Rotary sighting,” said Canfield, who is planning to repair boards and railings along its docks. end the month with a strictly online bid“This is necessary so children can safely ding auction from Wednesday, June 30 to access the water area, and that is some- Friday, July 2. For more, search for ‘Mething we can help with directly,” she said. lissa4BrandonMayor’ on Facebook or visit The funds she hopes to raise for Raining www.valricofishhawk.org.
agnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia in October. His ongoing treatment regimen includes adhering to a ketogenic diet after chemotherapy to increase the efficacy of treatment. Translation: no carbs. The organization also sent a questionnaire that the family completed. His answers were shared on the jumbotron before the pitch. One of the questions was which baseball team Randall eighth-grader Lucas Va threw a virtual first pitch at a was his favorite; his answer to Tampa Bay Rays game. that question wasn’t displayed Ceremonial first pitches are one of the on the jumbotron. best traditions in sports, but can a virtual “It’s actually the Red Sox,” said Lucas, first pitch still be meaningful? whose dad is from Rhode Island and is a big They can be for Randall Middle School stu- Red Sox fan. dent Lucas Va, who was selected to throw “We are Rays fans except when they play the first pitch virtually at a home game in the Red Sox,” his dad clarified. May. Before every Tuesday home game at While his cancer is in remission, he still Tropicana Field, the Tampa Bay Rays host has to continue chemotherapy treatment. a child from the Make-A-Wish Foundation “It’s a two-and-a-half-year process, so it’s a or Children’s Dream Fund at the ballpark as long road,” said Monique. “Lucas will compart of a special program called ‘Tuesday’s plete treatment on February 23, 2023.” Champion.’ The selected guest throws out Monique is grateful for all the support the ceremonial first pitch and is given their her family has received by so many orgafavorite player’s personalized jersey (Lucas’ nizations and members of the community. is outfielder Randy Arozarena), a baseball From the Children’s Dream Fund that made glove and a bat. The child, along with their the Rays experience possible to Ronald Mcfamily, attends the game. “We had great Donald House Charities, which washes their seats right behind home plate,” said his clothes and gives them food vouchers to use mom, Monique Va. while Lucas is at All Children’s Hospital in St. Even though they attended the game in Petersburg for treatment, each act of kindperson, the pitch was thrown virtually be- ness is helping make the trials this family is cause of COVID-19. experiencing a little easier to bear. “We had to do a couple of takes to get Monique, a realtor at Keller Williams Realthe video right, but it was a fun experience,” ty, said her company recently raised almost said Lucas. $7,000 for Ronald McDonald House. The opportunity presented itself when “It really touched my heart to be able to Lisa Hawk with the Children’s Dream Fund give back,” she said. “We will get through reached out to the family, as Lucas was di- this.”
By Kate Quesada
By Michelle Caceres
Page 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
TO CONTINUTE GROWTH, BSAC CHANGES NAME TO HIGH 5, INC. By Michelle Caceres
Beginning on Friday, June 4, BSAC’s name will change to High 5, Inc.
Since 1963, Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) has been impacting lives through its superior educational and athletic programming that enhances physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Beginning on Friday, June 4, the center’s name will change to High 5, Inc. “The change reflects where our organization is now and where it’s going in the future,” said CEO Chuck Burgess. ‘High 5’ references its five pillars of impact: aquatics and youth drowning prevention, after-school education, special needs education, sports and recreation as well as its community initiative. The organization will continue to provide a wide variety of programming options, including swimming, diving and tennis lessons; after-school programs; special needs education; and team and individual sports. Its facility features include an Olympic-sized pool; 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards; a 10-lane, 25-yard lap pool; 10 tennis courts; an indoor gym; sports fields; and an on-site cafe.
Camp High 5, its summer camp program, starts on Tuesday, June 1 and offers weeklong day camps for children in grades K-6. “We are so much more than sports and aquatics now, and, while our main campus is in Brandon, our programs and reach are well beyond home base,” Burgess said. “With partnerships with organizations like Livingstone Academy and Livy O’s, we’re impacting even more families throughout Hillsborough County.” Members of the community are invited to attend its grand opening celebration in honor of the name change and first official day of doing business as High 5, Inc. The event will be held on June 4 and will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. Guided tours of the facility and the surrounding 12.5-acre campus will be offered. “The name change is just the beginning of what’s in store for our community, with new programs slated for 2022 and beyond as well as facility upgrades, new corporate partnerships and a laser focus on our five pillars,” he said. High 5, Inc. is located at 405 Beverly Dr. in Brandon. Its hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information about High 5, Inc., visit www.high5inc.org or call 689-0908.
Volume 20, Issue 6
MOBILE MEALS IS LOCALLY-OWNED DELIVERY SERVICE BRINGING RESTAURANTS TO YOUR DOOR By Tatiana Ortiz What’s for dinner torestaurants may be night? Brandon residents available for catering and USF grads Jennior family-size meal defer Mekdeci Kalmbach livery only. Full details, and brother Christopher menus and pricing are Shelton found a need for available online. restaurant delivery with“Customer-centered in Southern Hillsborough service has always County and developed been at the heart of their successful business our company, along Mobile Meals 12 years with our number one ago. goal,” said Kalmbach, Business ownership who is proud of the runs in the family, as their partnerships with the grandfather started Salocal restaurants that bal Homes of Florida while her company has, which their grandmother estaballowed it to be ready lished Ann Lee Realty, Inc. for the pandemic, and Now, Kalmbach works is proud of the increase as the operations manin home delivery and ager and Shelton works no-contact drop-offs. as the IT technical offiCustomers can orcer. Kalmbach said that, der through the Mobile with Shelton’s technology Meals website, by callbackground, he felt online ing in or by submitting ordering and delivery was an order through the the future. app. Typically, there Mobile Meals delivers is a small delivery fee A Mobile Meals uniformed crew food from more than 100 that covers the cost of member delivering food to a customer. local restaurants to one’s transportation, which hotel, office or home. It is listed on the website delivers to the areas such as Lithia, Apol- and is typically between $3.99-$5.99. lo Beach, Brandon, Seffner, Valrico, River- Promotions and specials often offer free view, South Tampa, Wesley Chapel, New delivery. Tampa and more. “We treasure ourselves on working A uniformed Mobile Meals crew mem- with restaurants,” Kalmbach said. “We ber will deliver the food items in a timely also pride ourselves on being local too,” manner inside an insulated bag to keep it she added. fresh. For more information or to place an orOrders can even be placed for immedi- der, visit https://www.mobilemeals.com/. ate delivery or in advance for future de- Ordering is open Monday through Sunday, livery. Depending on your address, certain 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Call 907-MEAL(6325).
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2021
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OVERHAULED SUBARU LEGACY DESERVES A SERIOUS LOOK For too long, sometimes feeling like eternity, the Subaru Legacy has been pushed by the wayside. It should never have been so, because the midsize sedan is nearly as good as the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6, Kia K5 and so forth. With a total redesign last val offerings. Other LEGACY LIMITED XT year, the Legacy should standard comforts Tires: 225/50R18 inspire plenty of interare the dual auto AC, Wheelbase: 108.3 inches est. After all, the car 10-way adjustable Length: 190.6 inches demonstrates incredible power driver and Height: 59.1 inches nimbleness, remarkable eight-way passenger Width: 72.4 inches handling and response. Partial credit, of course, Suspension: MacPherson strut seats, 60/40 fold goes to the standard front, double wishbone rear rear seats, rear-seat AC outlets, overhead symmetrical all-wheel Steering: rack-and-pinion sunglass holder and drive system that Subpower assist power moonroof. aru equips in all its veFuel capacity: 18.5 gallons Dual front and side hicles. City: 24 mpg airbags, side curThe seventh-generaHighway: 32 mpg tain airbag for both tion Legacy is equipped Base price: $34,445 rows, driver knee with a 2.4-liter, horiPrice as tested: $35,370 airbag, four-wheel zontally opposed, turWeb site: www.subaru.com anti-lock brakes bo four-cylinder engine with electronic blasting off 260 horsebrake distribution power at 5,600 rpm and and brake assist, vehicle dynamic control, 277 pounds-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. stability and traction system, rearview The continuous variable transmission with eight-speed manual shift capabili- camera, blind-spot detection with laneties contributes to a compelling perfor- change assist and rear cross-traffic alert, reverse auto brakes, tire pressure monimance while ensuring gas savings. Ensconced on the unitized body struc- toring system and daytime running lights ture is a frameless hexagonal grille and come at no extra cost. The standard lower air intake with a centered Subaru Eyesight Assist Monitor, which features star cluster insignia, flanked by C-shaped lane-departure warning and active cruise LED headlights. Outdoor-loving folks will control, ensures that the driver maintains appreciate the mounting brackets atop a straight path while the DriverFocus the roof to haul a canoe or surfboard. Distraction Mitigation System sounds a A twin cockpit with electroluminescent warning if its camera and facial recoganalog gauge displays for the speedom- nition software finds tiredness signs or eter, tachometer, fuel and coolant tem- driver diversion. It’s about time the redesigned Legaperature give the cabin a rich feel. Its cy begins to attract serious attention huge, 11.6-inch, tablet-style touch screen If interested in advertising i sedan buyers. For us in the Tamamong to control navigation, audio and phone please contac along with circular control knobs is easy pa Bay area, the standard all-wheel drive to use. Drivers of different heights in the will be practical during the rainy season. family will appreciate the three-spoke Plus, the first-rate cabin and tremendous tilt/telescopic steering column. Its trunk safety features make the Legacy a terrifcapacity of 15.1 cubic feet matches ri- ic daily ride.
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Page 6
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
THE TAMPA BAY RAYS ANNOUNCE SECOND ANNUAL VIRTUAL 5K
Volume 20, Issue 6
WATER CONSERVATION TIPS FOR LIFE IN THE SUNSHINE STATE – YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
By Lily Belcher At the beginning which will be pubof April, the Tampa lished on the RunBay Rays announced ning with the Rays the opening of the results platform, and second annual Runparticipants are enning with the Rays couraged to post a Virtual 5K, which is photo on social mesupported by their dia using the hashtag presenting partner, #Rays5K. United Concordia “Proceeds benefit Dental. Rays fans the Rays Baseball and families across Foundation and Rowthe Tampa Bay area dies Soccer Fund, a can sign up to walk, 501(c)(3) organizajog or run the 5K at tion and the official any location they charity of the Tamchoose and anypa Bay Rays and time they want, Rowdies. The Rays providing a fun and Baseball Foundation convenient way for is dedicated to imsupporters to help proving the lives of their community. those in need within Runners can regour community, foister online by paycusing primarily on ing $30—which education, youth deincludes a com- Runners will receive a finisher’s medal with a velopment, wellness replica of the American League memorative finisher’s and social responsibilChampionship trophy. medal featuring the ity,” according to the American League Championship trophy, website. a race bib and a downloadable finisher’s The Tampa Bay Rays and Rowdies Founcertificate—and run the 3.1 miles before dation focuses on improving the comthe end of May. Medals are only guaran- munity and providing support and relief teed for the first 2,000 entries, so reg- for families around the Tampa Bay area. ister now. Through the partnership, the Rays BaseThe virtual 5K is also extended to par- ball Foundation and Rowdies Soccer Fund ticipants who live out of the state or in- have contributed over $1 million to nonternationally. International runners will profit organizations across Tampa Bay. have to pay a $35 shipping fee by selectFor more information about the Runing ‘international shipping’ at checkout. ning with the Rays program, visit mlb. Before midnight on the last day of com/rays/community or contact commuthe race, Monday, May 31, runners can nity@raysbaseball.com with more quesupload their race time to be featured tions. To register, use the link on the webon their custom finisher’s certificate, site or visit raceroster.com.
By Robin Grantham, Lead Communications Coordinator Q: How are Florida or stricter one-day-perlawns different? week schedules, so it’s A: Many of the grassalways best to check es found in northern your local city or county lawns can’t survive regulations. Florida’s heat. Instead, Q: Can I capture the district encourages rain to water my Florida-friendly landlawn later? scapes that need less A: Yes! While some water by incorporating states have laws against drought-tolerant plants rain harvesting, in Florand mulch. To learn ida rain barrels are more about specific encouraged and homeplants and turfgrassowners associations es best suited for your are forbidden to prohibhome, reach out to your it rain barrels. Before As lead communications coordinalocal University of Flori- tor, Robin Grantham oversees water purchasing a rain barrel, da Institute of Food and conservation programs, including the check to make sure your Agricultural Sciences neighborhood associaFlorida Water StarSM program. (UF/IFAS) county extion doesn’t have restrictension office for recommendations and tions that specify rain barrel characterlandscape workshops. istics, such as color, size and location. Q: How should I water my lawn? Q: How should I keep your lawn A: The district encourages homeown- healthy? ers to watch the weather, wait to waA: Florida lawns are connected to the ter. During the summer months, Florida watershed. Since water seeps through typically sees increased rainfall. When to the aquifer, applying too much fertilit’s raining frequently, turn off your ir- izer too often or at the wrong time can rigation system and turn it back on only pollute our waterways with nitrates. Bewhen needed. In addition, most Florida fore applying fertilizer, always read and lawns need only ½ to ¾ inches of water follow the package directions to avoid per week. Figure out how long you need overfertilizing. Order the free ‘Florito run your sprinkler system to apply this da-Friendly Fertilizing Guide’ at Wacorrect amount of water to reduce over- terMatters.org/Publications for simple watering, which not only wastes water steps to apply fertilizer and maintain but can also lead to pests and diseases. your landscape. Q: Are there any restrictions on Q: Where can I find more water when I can water my lawn? conservation tips? A: The district has year-round water A: To find more water conservation conservation measures in place, limiting tips, as well as Florida-Friendly Landlawn watering to no more than twice scaping™ and fertilizer suggestions, per week. Some local governments may visit the district’s website at WaterMathave special twice-per-week schedules ters.org/Conservation.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2021
Page 7
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.
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 four-lane divided highway. But more changes are ahead on this major project. Drivers traveling from Boyette Rd. towards 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 me-
Expiration 07/01/2021
dian. 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. The project will taper from four lanes to two near the end of the project at Knowles Rd. north of Bloomingdale Ave. and will widen from two lanes to four for drivers heading south at the same location.
Expiration 07/01/2021
The speed limit will be 45 mph for most of the new stretch of road and will be reduced to 35 mph in the areas closer toward 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.
Expiration 07/01/2021
Page 8
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
RESIDENTS CAN SERVE ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY BOARD By Brad Stager With a steady flow of new residents arriving to live in the Sunshine State, it is no surprise to those already here that Hillsborough County is a favored destination for newcomers. Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau indicate a 19.7 per-
who represent local governments (including Hillsborough County and the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace and Plant City), local housing agencies as well as the homebuilding industry and financial services sector. There are also positions filled by individual county residents and affordable housing advocates. Members serve three-year terms. Details about specific positions such as required qualifications can be found on the AHAB page of the county’s website. Topics discussed at meetings include updates of legislation, guidance and initiatives from local, state and federal entities, especially as they pertain to balancing free market interests and Ironwood Flats at Brandon Greene on Kings Ave. is an social needs. Navigating these apartment complex under construction to help meet the elements on behalf of county growing demand for housing in Hillsborough County. cent population growth in Hillsborough residents is a challenge that Connie BurCounty between 2010 to 2019, with an es- ton, who serves as an at-large resident of timated population of 1,471,968 at the end Hillsborough County, spoke about at the of that period. The percentage of people April 12 meeting. living at or below the poverty level in 2019 “While Tallahassee might have a strong was given as 13.5 percent. Numbers from hand, the moral compass of this communithe 2020 census have yet to be released ty has to take some leadership,” said Burin detail. ton. With rapid growth creating a strong Meetings are held the second Monday of need for housing, ensuring that there are each month, beginning at 9 a.m., and can affordable options for longtime residents be viewed live as they occur or as a recordas well as those starting new lives here is ing made available afterward via the counthe role of the Hillsborough County Afford- ty’s YouTube channel. able Housing Advisory Board (AHAB). You can find out more about the AHAB The AHAB provides advice to the Board by visiting hillsboroughcounty.org or conof County Commissioners and Affordable tacting Cheryl Howell at 274-6673. A reHousing Services about affordable hous- quest to speak at a meeting of the AHAB ing issues and assists in developing related or to submit input can be made by sending programs and projects. an email to AffordableHousingServices@ The board consists of 11 voting members HCFLGov.net.
Volume 20, Issue 6
MARY & MARTHA HOUSE HAS BEEN POSITIVELY IMPACTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 39 YEARS
By Libby Hopkins
Founded in 1982, Mary & Martha House ring said. “The pandemic really hurt us has been helping women and families es- last year. However, God provided for us cape domestic violence and homelessness through the pandemic. We were one of the for 39 years. few agencies that didn’t have to lay anyMary & Martha House provides individ- one off or close our doors. We were able ualized case management for each woman to maintain the care of our women and to identify perchildren.” sonal barriers The next and overcome Passport them. Mary & to Freedom Martha House event will is not a onebe held on size-fits-all Friday, June or group pro11 at The gram. Each Regent. The client receives event starts individual at 6 p.m. Founded in 1982, Mary & Martha House has been helping counseling ser“We are women and families escape domestic violence and homelessvices to help very careness for 39 years. The program provides individualized case her conquer ful in the management for each woman to identify personal barriers and names we her unique overcome them. Mary & Martha House is not a one-size-fits-all struggles. “It choose for or group program. Each client receives individual counseling was started our events,” services to help her conquer her unique struggles. many years Herring ago by three women, two of said. “It’s more than just a which who were nuns,” said fundraising event. It’s an opMary & Martha House’s execportunity for women to shine. utive director, Laurie Herring. They can show their accom“It just kind of evolved over plishments of the things they the years, but what is very have done if they choose to. important about our agency is that we Passport to Freedom is basically a name are not just a shelter for women. We are for the freedom they have now. They are a full-on program where women can take safe from domestic violence and put it bethe very next step in putting their lives hind them. We are making this more of back together again. Our main goal is to a celebration of the accomplishments of help with getting through every barrier our women and children.” that brought them to our program.” If you would like to learn more about Like many nonprofits in the area, the Mary & Martha House or if you’d like to COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected attend its Passport to Freedom event, you Mary & Martha House, forcing it to can- can visit its website at www.marymarcel its Passport to Freedom event. “This is thahouse.org or contact Herring at 645our largest fundraiser of the year,” Her- 7874.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 9
FIELDS & TABLE FRESH MARKET GROCERS IS NOW OPEN
By Kate Quesada
Have you we’re focusing on checked out the what we know and new Fields & Table do best—giving yet? The boutique the community the specialty grocery best grocery shopretailer opened its ping experience doors in Riverview from a product, as last month to a very well as educationwarm welcome al, standpoint. We from the commuwant people to be nity. informed about Fields & Table what they’re putSpokesperson Amy ting into their bodLundy wants to ies and we want thank everyone them to know that who has made the their food should store opening such look as good as it a success. tastes. Whether it’s “We are so apa three-course meal preciative of the for a party they’re continued support throwing or a and feedback,” said Tuesday night preLundy. pared meal they’re Fields & Table opened recently in Riverview. T h e looking for, we ab8,000-square-foot indoor store is filled solutely have them covered. And our team with locally sourced, fresh, healthy as well loves talking food and recipes, especially our as affordable products. Fields & Table of- butcher.” fers a huge produce department filled with Lundy also explained that if the store the freshest fruits and vegetables, a meat doesn’t stock a particular product that is and seafood department staffed by an ex- available from local vendors and farms, perienced butcher with the best cuts and Fields & Table will work to special order it. varieties offered in the area, a stocked deli To make shopping even more affordable featuring a great assortment of Boar’s Head and easy for customers, Fields & Table has products, baked goods, prepared foods and an app available for download in Google Play a floral department. Some of the store’s and the Apple Store. Through the app, cusunique features include a do-it-yourself or- tomers will be able to see specials and find ange juicer, self-serve pineapple corer and a coupons. Order pickup and delivery options made-to-order, customizable guacamole and are also coming soon. salsa bar. Fields & Table, located at 11531 Balm Riv“Fields & Table is all about supporting our erview Rd., is open from Monday to Saturcommunity and making the shopping ex- day, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., and on Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 perience enjoyable,” said Lundy. “We’re not p.m. Go to www.fieldsandtable.com or visit trying to be a restaurant or a coffee shop, its www.facebook.com/FieldsandTable.
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Page 10
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
CONGRATULATIONS TO AREA HIGH SCHOOL
VALEDICTORIANS & SALUTATORIANS
Staff Report
Valedictorian Logan Cunningham Bell Creek Academy GPA 6.56 Plans to attend UCF
Salutatorian Alvin Wu Bell Creek Academy GPA 6.50 Plans to attend University of Florida
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world,” – Nelson Mandela. Congratulations are in order for this year’s area valedictorians and salutatorians from our local high schools. These students have put in the hard work, the dedication and shown the drive to be the best of the best of their high school graduating classes. The 2020-21 school year, with its masks, social distancing and other adaptions, has been filled with challenges that make this accomplishment even more impressive. We wish these students the absolute best of luck in their college careers and in their future, and we know that they will never forget graduating during a worldwide coronavirus pandemic. Unlike the Class of 2020, this year’s graduates will have a traditional ceremony at the Florida State Fairgrounds to mark the end of their high school career, although the number of tickets per graduate is limited. Visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/ for information on dates and times. Please join us in congratulating all of the Hillsborough County seniors and those who are the top of their class! Well done!
Valedictorian Valeria Cortes Durant High School GPA 9.58 Plans to attend Georgia Tech or USF
Salutatorian Shivani Persad Durant High School GPA 8.62 Plans to attend USF
Valedictorian Jacob Tracy Newsome High School GPA 8.81 Plans to attend University of Florida
Salutatorian Emily Valenza Newsome High School GPA 8.19 Plans to attend University of Florida
Valedictorian Jude Delikat Bloomingdale Senior High School GPA 8.20 Plans to attend USF Honors College
Salutatorian Joseph Neidig Bloomingdale Senior High School GPA 8.16 Plans to attend UCF
Valedictorian Sagnik Yarlagadda IB at Strawberry Crest High School GPA 9.34 Plans to attend Vanderbilt University
Salutatorian Srikar Parsi IB at Strawberry Crest High School GPA 8.60 Plans to attend Georgia Tech
June 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 11
SUPERINTENDENT DAVIS IS A WHITNEY M. YOUNG JR. SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT Staff Report On May 13, Hillsborough County School Superintendent Addison Davis was honored as a 2021 Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award recipient from the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, Boy Scouts of America for his significant contributions in advocating for rural and low-income urban youth who face challenging barriers in their academics and in life. Davis was among a distinguished group of honorees this year, including State Representative Fentrice Driskell; Kevin Plummer, head of Tampa Preparatory School; and Glenn Permuy, senior vice president of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “I am truly honored to be recognized alongside this group of dedicated community and state leaders. The students who are part of the Boy Scouts of America live by a set of values that influence the rest of their lives and sets them on a path to achieve their goals. Through the work of our educators in the district’s Transformation Network of schools, our goal is to eradicate the barriers that prevent students from reaching their true potential and focus on innovative programs that provide equitable access
Hillsborough County School Superintendent Addison Davis was honored as a 2021 Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award recipient from the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, Boy Scouts of America.
to high-quality instruction for all students,” said Davis. The Whitney M. Young Jr. Service Award recognizes individuals who are instrumental in developing the principles of Scouting for youth from rural or low-income urban backgrounds. The award is named in honor of influential civil rights leader Whitney M. Young Jr., who became the head of the National Urban League in the 1960s. Young’s work transformed the organization into a major civil rights organization while creating thousands of new jobs for African Americans. To learn more about the award and Superintendent Davis, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BURNS MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM WINS FIRST COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP
Volume 20, Issue 6
BLOOMINGDALE FLAG FOOTBALL HAS BEST FINISH IN HISTORY; REACHES REGIONAL
By Nick Nahas
By Nick Nahas
The Burns Middle School girls basketball Watt, Elizabeth Waters, Grace Miller, Sara team made history, going undefeated and Golden, Icyss Lopez, Isabella Phan, Kimayja winning its first county championship. Frank, Nisaiah Jackson, Natalie Cable and “I thought winning the county champi- Aviance Torres. onship was a First-year satisfying way Head Coach to end my time Wes Knauer was playing middle impressed with school baskethow quickly his ball,” said team team came tocaptain and gether, making leading scorer defense its callNoelle Mengel. ing card. He built “I’m proud of his team on four how hard the principles for his team worked to players —being go undefeated coachable, being this season.” a good teamThe Lady Brumate, working ins were dom- The Lady Bruins celebrate after beating Martinez Middle as hard as you School 34-16. Photo by Burns Middle School. inant, going can and having undefeated (8-0), outscoring opponents fun. Knauer, who is also an assistant for the 260-90 all season. They beat Mulren- Bloomingdale High School girls basketball nan, Turner Bartels and Martinez Middle team, had two assistants, his daughter, Ava Schools on their way to the title. Mengel Knauer, who plays for Bloomingdale, and led all scorers with 14 points in the 34-16 Michaela White, who is the head junior varchampionship game win against Martinez. sity coach for the Bulls as well. Fellow team captain and leading rebounder “There’s not a lot of practice time and Madison Rothenbush had eight rebounds the season is very short—by the end of the (six offensive) and four steals. season we truly were a team,” said Knauer. “What makes me most proud of being on “We had a lot of talent, but we played as a this team is that we play as a family,” said team and had great chemistry.” Rothenbush. ”Everyone gives 100 percent Rothenbush said that she plans on trying at practices, trying to become better play- out for her high school team next season ers, and everyone plays, not for themselves, while improving upon her craft. She will but for each other. Our bench is one of the never forget her time as a Burns Bruin. best in the county, always cheering and lift“These girls have become my family,” she ing up our teammates, even though they said. “Part of the reason we won this year might not be in the game at the moment.” isn’t just because we had skill, it’s also beThe team consists of 16 players from cause we stayed playing as a team during sixth through eighth grade, including: Men- the tough times and trusted each other. I gel, Rothenbush, Isabella Tirri, Aydan Walk- plan on being at all the Burns games next er, Alexa Serniotti, Lindsay Cable, Jayla year to cheer on my girls.”
The Bloomingdaavenge that loss le High School girls in the 2A Disflag football team adtrict 6 Champivanced further than onship game, as ever before, reaching they beat the the regional final for Cougars 19-0 at the first time in their Durant’s home school’s history. The field. Bulls lost to the even“What I will tual state champion remember most Newsome Wolves by The Lady Bulls won the 2A District 6 Championship is the team bond game 19-0 against Durant. one point, 20-19. that we all had, Photo courtesy of Laura Robinson. and how, when “All of our hard work and practices as a team paid off, and we won faced with hard times and opponents, we districts because of it,” said junior receiver/ came together as a family,” said junior caplinebacker Hayley Robinson. “We wanted to tain Marlee Wilson. “We were always there prove to the other teams not to underesti- to support each other on and off the field.” mate us. I will always remember the thrill The key players for Bloomingdale include of being champions. We made Bloomingda- rushers Brianna Phillips (Second Team le High School sports history this year, and All-County) and Melody Womack. Sophothat is something I will never forget. I am more receiver/defensive back Emily Gunidn proud to be a part of this team.” was selected First Team All-County and Second-year Head Coach Larry Langston was named team MVP at their banquet. said his team had a successful postseason “I look forward to next season because run despite having a mediocre regular sea- we are even more motivated since we came son with six losses and multiple players in so close to winning it all this year,” said quarantine throughout the year, including Robinson. “I know with the coaching and starting junior quarterback Kaylie Lewis. At talent we have on the team we will make the beginning of the season, the Bulls lost it even further. We will continue to practo Newsome 39-0 in their second game, but tice and participate in tournaments over they improved throughout the year, using the summer and into the fall as a travel defense to help win close games. Their mot- team. I think making it to the regional finals to was “Trust the process.” showed us how great we are together as a “We didn’t have to motivate our girls very team. This off-season is just going to make much after we got into the playoffs,” said us stronger.” Langston. “When they warmed up, they The Lady Bulls have lofty goals for themwere ready to go. The growth was phenom- selves next season with 12 returning playenal from day one to our last game. They ers. They have one more thing left on their stuck together and believed they could win.” minds until next season. One of the team’s key moments was “For us going into next season, my battle a loss to rival Durant in the middle of the cry is ‘one’—one point away from tying the season. The Cougars ran up the score in the game up against Newsome to make it interfinal seconds of the game. The Lady Bulls esting,” said Langston. “One team, one more did not forget that, and later went on to play, one goal.”
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2021
Page 13
BUSINESS OWNERS CAN GET FREE MENTORING FROM SCORE By Brad Stager When James tain a business,” Zanatta started his said Werremeyer. full-service residenTrust is also an tial and commercial important element building contracting of the relationship company, ProCraft with SCORE cliBuilders, he knew ents, according to about hanging dryBill Wright, another wall and laying a mentor, who is the foundation for conpresident and CEO struction. What he of First Intelligence was less sure of Group, which spewere the practical cializes in conductdetails about opering background ating and managing checks. a business. Fortu“Confidentialinately, he was aware Bill Wright (left) and Kit Werremeyer (right) are two ty is a big part of mentors of the local SCORE chapter which assists of who could help. what we do,” said entrepreneurs. Zanatta reached Wright, who has out to the Tampa chapter of SCORE, a also been a financial services executive and nationwide network of experienced busi- is an Army veteran of more than 20 years ness professionals who mentor—without service. He conducts SCORE’s Boots to Busicharge—entrepreneurs like Zanatta and op- ness workshops for military personnel who erate every imaginable kind of business. are transitioning from active duty to civilian “I knew about them prior to starting my life and work. business and I knew I needed some help,” Other workshops conducted by the local said Zanatta. SCORE chapter include: Going Into Business, The local SCORE chapter connected Preparing Your Business Plan and ConstrucZanatta with Kit Werremeyer, who owns tion Contracts. The organization has also an engineering business, Southernstar Con- helped local entrepreneurs apply for the Paysultants, which advises on construction con- check Protection Program, which supported tracting, sales and marketing. He has also businesses affected by the COVID-19 panpublished a how-to manual on construction demic. negotiations, Understanding and Negotiating The pandemic has required SCORE to opConstruction Contracts: A Contractor’s and erate virtually for the most part in the last Subcontractor’s Guide to Protecting Compa- year, but a return to supporting entrepreny Assets. It is just the kind of relationship neurs in person is anticipated to occur this matchup that SCORE seeks to establish with summer. SCORE’s offices are located at the its clients, whether they are starting their Entrepreneur Collaborative Center on 2101 own business from scratch or undertaking a E. Palm Ave. in Ybor City. franchise opportunity To find out more about SCORE and how “We try to give them a realistic overview to become a client or mentor, you can visit of what it takes to start a business and sus- online at tampa.score.org or call 448-2311.
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Page 14
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
NATURAL BOURNE LEADERS ACADEMY FOUNDER HELPS LOCAL YOUTHS BECOME LEADERS By Libby Hopkins but after the diagnosis, my career as firefighter came to an end,” Chatman said. “After I retired in 2013, my wife and I decided to move back to Tampa. In 2014, I became a school security officer, and in 2018, I became a Tampa police officer with the Reserve Unit.” When Chatman became involved with the school, he saw many of the struggles When Billy Chatman was in his senior year of and challenges teens high school, his counselor called him into her were going through, office and told him that he was not going to and it broke his heart. graduate if he didn’t get all of his credits. This drive would later help move him to create Natural Bourne Leadership This inspired him to create Academy, which mentors teens to become leaders of tomorrow. Natural Bourne Leaders Academy. When Billy Chatman was a senior in high “Natural Bourne Leaders Academy is a school, his counselor called him into her ofmentoring program where I cultivate the fice and told him that he was not going to leaders within young men and women who graduate if he didn’t get all of his credits. others have given up on,” Chatman said. “This meant that I needed eight classes in “Our motto is ‘Shaping Today’s Youth Into my senior year in order to graduate,” ChatTomorrow’s Leaders.’ The academy is comman said. “The normal student only needed mitted to mentoring, motivating and transsix classes, but because I spent my time forming the lives of thousands of youth in fighting and chasing girls, I had to take the Tampa Bay area. I encourage the youth eight classes plus tutoring every morning of today to spread those wings and sore like before school. I did not have a lunch break an eagle.” in my senior year. I got the job done so that Chatman recently gave a $500 scholI could graduate.” arship to a student who is graduating this This drive is what led Chatman to join year. “I use my own funds to help him with the Louisville Fire Department at the age his books for college,” Chatman said. “I’ve of 19, his first major career job. “After beknown him and his family for a while and ing there for eight years, I was promoted he really excelled once he became involved to the rank of Sgt. over Hazmat 5, and only with the academy.” two years after that I became the company Last year, Chatman also gave two scholcommander of Tele-Squirt 9,” Chatman said. arships to two African teens in Kenya. To In 2005, Chatman was forced to retire learn more about the Natural Bourne Leadfrom the fire department after being diagership Academy, visit www.naturalbournenosed with multiple sclerosis. leadersacademy.org. “I had plans to move higher in the ranks,
Volume 20, Issue 6
LIMONA PARK OFFERS FIRST PUBLIC DISC GOLF COURSE DESIGNED BY LOCAL WORLD CHAMP By Libby Hopkins the 1970s and shares with golf the objective of completing each hole in the fewest strokes, or, in the case of disc golf, the fewest throws. A golf disc is thrown from a tee area to a target, which is the ‘hole.’ The hole can be one of a number of disc golf targets; the most common is an elevated metal basket. As a player progresses down the fairway, he or she must make each consecutive throw from the spot where the previous throw landed. The trees, shrubs and terrain changes located in and around the fairways provide challenging obstacles for the disc golfer. Finally, the Limona Disc Golf Course was designed by ‘putt’ lands in the basket and the hole world renowned disc is completed. golfer JohnE McCray McCray is the course designer for Limona Disc Golf Course. He is also a Limona Disc professional disc golfer who has traveled Golf Course was the country, competing with his wife as the first public his caddy. He was also in the world top 10 disc golf course of disc golf players. in Hillsborough “We have both been involved with disc County. From start to finish, it took 18 golf for 25 years,” McCray said. “I’m no months to get the course installed. The longer top 10 in the world, that was a few disc golf course is free to play. years ago, but I am a world champion, U.S. “There are several leagues scheduled Masters champion, 13-time Florida Tour throughout the week if you want to get champion and I have won over 250 tourmore involved with the Limona communaments as a professional.” nity,” said JohnE McCray of the disc golf “I think what I like most about being league. “Tuesdays at 6 p.m. is Doubles and involved with the Limona community is the cost is $6, Thursdays at 6 p.m. are that every single one of us takes pride in Handicaps and the cost is $8, Saturdays Limona Park,” McCray said. “We’re all out at 9 a.m. is also Handicaps and the cost is there taking care of the park and enjoying $8 and then on Thursdays at 6:45 a.m. is the beautiful scenery.” BCB Handicaps.” Limona Disc Golf Course is located at So what exactly is disc golf? Disc golf 1315 Lakewood Dr. in Brandon. To learn is played much like golf. Instead of a ball more about it, visit www.pdga.com/ and clubs, though, players use a flying disc course-directory/course/limona-disc-golfor Frisbee. The sport was formalized in course.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2021
POPULAR PARENT FITNESS CLASSES COME TO FISHHAWK
By Kate Quesada
If you are a Fisher. They are free to Hawk parent lookplay in the park ing for a fun way while we workout.” to improve your Children of any fitness close to age are welcome to home, head over to attend. Ibis Park on Thurs“Are your kids day mornings at enrolled in a sum9:30 a.m., because mer program? iStroll Brandon has That’s fine. You can come to FishHawk still join us and get and is now meetan incredible working there. out,” said Aufiero. iStroll is a “Do you have old60-minute stroller er kids out for the workout made by summer? That’s athletes for pargreat too. Bring The popular workout class for parents iStroll of ents. them to play in the Brandon recently began offering classes in FishHawk’s Ibis Park. “We incorpark or have them porate running, join us for the workbody weight, dumbout.” bells and resistance Attendees are encourbands,” said Amanaged to bring water, a da Aufiero, iStroll yoga mat and dumbbells, Brandon owner and but there are extras for instructor. “It gives those who don’t have both moms and dads them. a full-body workout “iStroll is more than a while keeping babies workout class,” said Aumoving and happy. fiero. “It is place to meet We are dedicated to new people and make transforming families lifelong friends all while lives through dynamdeveloping a strong ic, fun and challenging workouts led by support group. We understand that being professional instructors who inspire you to parents with young children makes meetdiscover your best self.” ing new people difficult. So, we don’t just Although iStroll accommodates parents workout—we have fun events throughout with young children, Aufiero said to not let the month for the kids and parents and even the name fool you. Mom’s Night Out.” “You don’t need the stroller, or a baby, to To learn more, check out the group’s join us,” she said. “If you have a toddler that Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/isrefuses to sit in the stroller, don’t worry— trollbrandon or website at www.istroll.co/ kids are not required to be or stay in a stroll- brandon.
For more information or tickets call 645-7874
Page 15
AJ’S FINE WINE & LIQUOR TO HOST JACK DANIEL’S ENGRAVING EVENT By Libby Hopkins bottles and pick them AJ’s Fine Wine & up the night of the Liquor’s annual Jack event or the next day,” Engraving Daniel’s Jambhekar said. “This become has Event year, there are no requite popular in the strictions on how many communiValrico bottles customers can ty. This event offers purchase. This is why unique engraved liquor it’s best to purchase in bottles that make for advance. We will also great gifts for Father’s have pizza at the event housewarming Day, from Rosati’s Chicago corporate gifts and Pizza.” gifts. “We recently Jambhekar loves eddid bottles for Toyota ucating his customers and they used them as on the different liquors, corporate gifts,” said wines and beers he Ajay Jambhekar, ownoffers in his store. “In er of AJ’s Fine Wine & the liquor and food inLiquor. dustry, the two most this started “I AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor’s annual Jack important things are event a few years Daniel’s Engraving Event has become quite popular in the Valrico community. taste and quality,” ago and I do it two The bottle engraving event will take place he said. “I like to let times a year, once at Christmas time on Saturday, June 12 at Jambhekar’s store my customers know from 6-9 p.m. about how different and the other around Father’s Day,” Jambhekar said. “These products taste and save them money at events are done basically as a way to say the same time.” Another part of this event that Jam‘thank you’ to our customers.” loves is that, each year, more bhekar take The bottle engraving event will place on Saturday, June 12 at Jamb- bottles are getting engraved and he hekar’s store from 6-9 p.m. This year’s loves beating his previous year’s bottle event will feature eight different liquors engraving goal. “I do my best to beat my to choose from for the bottle engrav- record every year,” Jambhekar said. If you would like to learn more about ing. The eight liquors that can be purchased for engraving are Jack Daniel’s, the bottle engraving event or if you Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, Jack Daniel’s would like to pre-purchase a bottle to be Barrel Proof, Jack Daniel’s Frank Sina- engraved, you can contact Jambhekar at tra, Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniel’s Gold, 654-6488. AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquors is Woodford Reserve Bourbon and Herradu- located at 3443 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in ra Tequila. “This is a one-day-only event The Shoppes at Lithia – Publix Plaza in and customers can pre-purchase their Valrico.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
A KID’S PLACE OF TAMPA BAY OPENS AKP THRIFT STORE IN BRANDON By Tatiana Ortiz With school being out for the summer, too. One may even find name brands such one may consider revamping their ward- as Kate Spade, Nike and more. robe by either donating clothes or purStaff and volunteers sort through the chasing some. There’s a great new way donations prior to their arrival at a AKP to do this, as A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay Thrift Store. The condition of these items will be opening its first AKP Thrift Store should be gently used. It also accepts in Brandon on Saturdonated furniture day, June 5 at 10 a.m. too. All of the items sold at For the older AKP Thrift Store help kids turning 17 foster children living or 18, AKP Thrift at A Kid’s Place of Store will provide Tampa Bay with 100 them with an oppercent of net proportunity to work ceeds going towards and learn the valit. To add, it provides ue of a dollar. residential services to Tamika Lopez, children in foster care Brad Gregory, CEO at A Kid’s Place of Tampa development cofrom birth to 18 years Bay, and Tamika Lopez, development coor- ordinator at A Kid’s old who were removed dinator at A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay, stand Place of Tampa Bay, from their homes due encourages people outside the new AKP Thrift Store. to abandonment, to give since nothneglect and abuse. ing comes to AKP Brad GregoThrift Store withry, CEO at A Kid’s out them thinking Place of Tampa of the kids first. Bay, mentioned For more inhow AKP Thrift formation, visStore came into it https://akidfruition: “The comsplacetb.org/ munity has blessed akp-thrift/. It is us with an abunlocated at 948 W. dant amount of donations and this would Brandon Blvd. in Brandon and is open be an idea that has been thought of for Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. several years.” To donate, visit 1715 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. AKP Thrift Store will feature a wide in Brandon. Donation hours are Monday variety of great, quality clothing, shoes, through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For those accessories, household items and more interested in donating furniture, photos at reasonable prices. This 2,200 sq.ft. of the furniture should be emailed to destore includes 1,800 sq.ft. of retail velopment@akidsplacetb.org, through space. AKP Thrift Store will carry items which additional information will be profor newborns all the way up to men and vided; pickup times will vary, depending women, along with a plus-size section on availability.
License# CHC433643
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2021
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE TAMPA BAY OFFERS WAYS TO STAY ON TOP OF SUMMER STORMS By Brad Stager
As the calendar advances into the summer installing a weather app from a local memonths in Florida, crisp, refreshing breezes dia outlet, having access to a radio that can and clear, azure skies make way for 90-de- receive weather updates and being familiar gree-plus temperatures and banks of cu- with information and services available on mulus clouds that websites from oroften precede rain ganizations like the showers. Florida Division of There is a high Emergency Manprobability that agement and the stepping outside Federal Emergenyour door means cy Management being greeted by a Agency. warm and soggy Residents can atmospheric hug. also stay inWhile hurricanes formed about get the big headthe latest forelines, the local arcast informaea’s daily weather tion by monalso bears vigilant itoring NWS It’s the time of year when weather radar displays watching, said DanTampa Bay’s social explode with the bright colors of rain storms. iel Noah of the Namedia platforms, tional Weather Service (NWS) Tampa Bay such as Facebook and Twitter, which can be area forecast office in Ruskin. accessed through the weather office’s web“Expect thunderstorms most every day site. from late May to mid-October. These storms There is also a new program called Weathproduce frequent lightning and flood roads, er-Ready Nation Ambassadors. It is a Nationmaking travel dangerous,” he wrote in an al Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration email. “When thunder roars, go indoors.” initiative that works with local community Staying abreast of weather conditions organizations to improve severe weather that can change quickly involves effort from awareness and safety within their spheres of government, media and, importantly, individ- influence. Groups such as government entiual residents, according to Noah. ties, businesses, print and broadcast media, “Your National Weather Service in Ruskin churches, schools and homeowners associprovides local emergency management ations are among the organizations whose [agencies] critical weather information to participation is sought. prepare for, respond to and recover from More information about becoming a hurricanes. Our local media is responsible for Weather-Ready Nation ambassador is availcommunicating the weather threat to the able on the NWS Tampa Bay website at public. [We] have multiple ways to receive a weather.gov/tbw, where you can also find weather warning in case one way fails,” he the latest local forecasts, watches and warnsaid. ings as well as links to relevant social media Methods that Noah recommends include accounts.
Page 17
Want An Extra Boost to Your Morning Coffee? Caffeine is the world’s most famous and commonly consumed psychoactive drug. Who doesn’t ingest even a little from time to time? CBD oil is rapidly gaining ground on coffee in terms of popularity and so it only makes sense that people would start combining the two. As it turns out, the two substances go very well together!
CBD oil is also a partial agonist of the A2a receptor; so the theory goes that by combining caffeine and CBD, adenosine is blocked across the board, resulting in not only more stimulation, but reduced anxiety (due to CBD’s effects on other neurotransmitters systems).
Caffeine is molecularly very similar to adenosine, a compound produced in our bodies that activates the A2a receptor. Caffeine binds to the A2a receptors, inhibiting the re uptake of adenosine. When adenosine binds to the A2a receptor, the result is what is commonly known as the ‘rest and digest’ effect, which increases clarity and alertness.
On the bright side, CBD oil and caffeine together will cause the boost from your morning cup of coffee to last all day instead of just a few hours. Considering this information, again, it is best to be mindful and cautious when mixing caffeine and CBD. Visit our Facebook page or website for a list of our in-store events.
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FINANCIAL FOCUS Father’s Day Gifts
If you’re a dad, you may be in line to get some nice gifts on Father’s Day. But your greatest gift may be your ability to help your children. One way of doing that is to get them started in the world of investing – and making a few investments on their behalf. Here are three possibilities: 529 plan – If you invest in a 529 education savings plan, your earnings can grow federally tax-free, provided the money is used for qualified educational expenses. (Withdrawals not used for these expenses will generally incur taxes and penalties on investment earnings.) If you invest in your own state’s 529 plan, you might receive some state tax benefits, too, depending on how your state’s tax laws apply to 529 plans. State-by-state tax treatment may vary, so you’ll need to consult with your tax professional about your situation. Provided you stay within certain limits, you can also use a 529 plan to pay for qualified K-12 expenses and registered apprenticeship programs. And you can even use it to repay certain qualified student loans, within limits. A 529 plan can affect financial aid, but its effect is generally lower than that of other assets. And as the account owner, you have control of your 529, so, if one child decides not to go to college or pursue further education, you can switch beneficiaries. UGMA/UTMA account – When you establish a special type of custodial account known as either UGMA (Uniform Gift to Minors Act) or UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act), you are providing financial resources that can be used for education or another purpose that benefits your child, such as summer programs.
One potential benefit of an UGMA or UTMA is that some of the earnings will be taxed at the child’s rate, which is likely lower than your own. Plus, UGMA/UTMA accounts typically allow a wide range of investment choices. However, once children reach the age of majority (typically 18 or 21) they gain complete access to the money and can do whatever they want with it. IRA – A child with any taxable compensation, such as money from an after-school job, is eligible to fund an IRA. You may want to open one on your child’s behalf – and you can “sweeten” the offer by matching some of their contributions. You can’t directly invest in the IRA, but you can give your child money for that purpose. Keep in mind, though, that the total amount contributed can’t exceed your child’s taxable compensation for the year. An IRA is a great introduction to the world of investing. For one thing, your child can make small contributions throughout the year, so investing in an IRA doesn’t seem burdensome. Also, since an IRA can be invested in different types of securities, your child can learn about various investment vehicles – stocks, bonds, mutual funds and so on. Plus, you can point out that, with a traditional IRA, taxes won’t be due on the earnings until your child starts taking withdrawals decades from now. (And with a Roth IRA, withdrawals are tax-free, provided certain conditions are met.)
Before you leave town, make sure all of your estate documents are up to date.
On Father’s Day, you can show your appreciation for whatever gifts you receive from your children. But by investing in their future, you can gain some longer-term contentment. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones financial advisor. Edward Jones. Member SIPC.
edwardjones.com/adam-benabram
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Page 18
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
Registration Opens For The LAB’s Suicide Awareness Showdown
Registration Opens, Family Painting & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
The Angel Foundation FL Announces New Appointments
The Angel Foundation FL is proud to announce that after serving as the executive director since 2014, Liz Brewer has been appointed to chief executive officer. In addition, Ericka White, pastor of OneChurch, has been appointed president; Gary Searls, chief financial officer of Brandon Regional Hospital, has been appointed as treasurer; Julie Dahl will continue in her second term as secretary; and Shannon Keil will continue to serve on the board of directors as past president. The Angel Foundation FL (formerly known as the Brandon Foundation) serves families in our community affected by a life-threatening illness or catastrophic event by matching them with local businesses to meet the practical needs of the families. For more information, please call the foundation at 689-6889 or visit www. AngelFoundationFL.com.
Rivers Hills Bible Study Enjoys Guest Speaker
The River Hills Bible Study Group, a nondenominational group, recently completed its COVID-19-altered year with a guest speaker. Paul Finizio, a friend of one of the members and a former leader of Dale Carnegie, focused his talk on the powers of positivity in our thoughts, words and actions. He covered such areas as the ‘Five F’s’: family, friends, faith, fitness and finance, all of which impact daily living. The River Hills Bible Study Group first began in 2006 as a small, bible-based study group, and now it is home to 18 members meeting on Friday mornings from 10-11 a.m. throughout September to May. New members are welcome. Please contact group leader Linda Haines at haineslsh4@msn.com for more information.
Live Achieve Believe, Inc. (LAB) has opened registration for its Suicide Awareness Showdown. The LAB is an organization where assistance is offered in the odyssey of self-development. Its mission is to empower people through education, self-reflection and self-evaluation, expressly learning who they really are, not who they have been conditioned to be, and therefore finding their purpose, ultimately unlocking their power. The Suicide Awareness Showdown was started to help people celebrate life. It aims to encourage oneself to set out on a journey of self-discovery to comprehend the core of their very being, exposing the beauty that lies within, leading to character building. The showdown honors all those brave men, women, boys and girls who struggle with suicide in any form and continue to stay strong one moment at a time. The Suicide Awareness Showdown will take place at The Regent in Riverview on Saturday, September 18. The theme for the event is ‘Where Have You Been? A Night at the Oscars.’ Registration costs $20; visit the LAB’s website to register. For more information, visit www.thelabinc.org or call 588-5010.
Mary & Martha House Hosting Gala To Celebrate 39 Years
Mary & Martha House has been helping women and families escape domestic violence and homelessness since 1982. It
provides individualized case management for each woman to identify personal barriers and overcome them. Mary & Martha House is not a one-size-fits-all or group program, each client receives individual counseling services to help her conquer her unique struggles. To celebrate its 39 years, Mary & Martha House is hosting a gala event, Passport to Freedom, at The Regent on Friday, June 11. The evening
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Asia Nobles receives her Dr. Earl Lennard Scholarship.
will include cocktails, dinner and a silent auction starting at 6 p.m. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For additional information, call 645-7874.
Dr. Earl Lennard Scholarship Recipients
On May 11, the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce hosted its Munch & Mingle lunch at The Barn at Winthrop. During this event, the 2021 winners of the Dr. Earl Lennard Scholarships were recognized: Anne Caroline Howard – Riverview High School, Emily Ann Pesquera – East Bay High School, Reagan Pulkowski – Riverview High School, Mattison Burris – Lennard High School and Asia Nobles – Spoto High School. The scholarship is dedicated to the memory of prominent local educator Dr. Earl Lennard. If you wish to learn more about the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, visit www.RiverviewChamber.com, call 234-5944 or email info@ riverviewchamber.com.
Family Painting Class At Center Place
Join Lori Dowe of Art & Ministry at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association in Brandon on Sunday, June 13 for a fun family painting class for parents and children. Tickets cost $40 for a parent and a child; an additional parent or child will cost $10. The ticket price includes food, family-friendly drinks and painting supplies. This class is limited to 50 participants. To register for this class, call Center Place at 685-8888; preregistration and payment are required. COVID-19 policies are being followed and masks must be worn.
Come To Center Place’s Charcuterie School
Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association in Brandon is hosting a pop-up charcuterie school with
The Seasoned Corner on Thursday, July 8 from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $50 and include a charcuterie board, apron as well as meat and cheese products to create your board and wine. The class is limited to 50 participants, so please register early. To register for this class, call Center Place at 685-8888. Preregistration and payment are required. COVID-19 policies are being followed and masks must be worn.
Kiwanis Club Of SouthShore Benefit Concert
The Kiwanis Club of SouthShore is hosting a benefit concert on Friday, June 4 at 7 p.m. to raise scholarship money for local, deserving, college-bound high school seniors. Hwy 41 South, a bluegrass band, will be performing at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center (UMCSCC) and features Mark Horn, Donnie Harvey, David Beaumont, Clint Dockery and Tammy White. Tickets for the concert are $10 and are on sale at the UMCSCC office Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. If still available, they will be $15 at the door. CDC guidelines are still in effect at the church, so please bring your mask. For more information about recitals at the UMCSCC, visit www.sccumc.com.
Suncoast Bronze Ringers Performing In Sun City Center
The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center (UMCSCC) welcomes the very talented handbell ensemble, Suncoast Bronze Ringers to its campus for a 3 p.m. concert on Sunday, June 20. The Suncoast Bronze Ringers are an advanced community handbell ensemble founded in 2012 to provide a challenging opportunity for handbell ringers and a beautiful musical experience for community audiences. They move handbells beyond the church service setting and excite their audiences with the sights and sounds of handbells playing music ranging from jazz to pop to classical. A donation of $10 is requested at the door on the day of the concert. For additional information about this and other concerts at the UMCSCC, visit www.umcscc.org.
June 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
THE WATER WIZARD OF AMERICAN WATER & WINDOWS WORKS HIS MAGIC By Amy Schechter Hard water can The water tastes betcause problems in your ter, makes skin and home. Scale buildup hair feel softer and exin pipes can damage tends the life of your them and impede flow pipes and appliances. over time. Appliances, If you’re in your home such as dishwashers for the long run, it is an and water heaters, can investment you cannot suffer from that same afford to skip. buildup, causing you Bancroft stands beto repair or replace hind his product and he them early. Hard water is truly devoted to our makes it more difficult community. “In 2017, to clean clothes, cutI was the honorary lery, and even yourself. deputy mayor of RiverThat is where you want President Gary Bancroft of American view. I had a wonderful Water & Windows. a dependable watime raising monter purifier and ey for charity,” he softener, and said. Everything with 30 years he raised went to of experience, Faces of Courage, American Water a local nonprofit & Windows will that offers free keep your home’s camps for men, water running. women and chilPresident of dren with cancer American Water and other illness& Windows Gary es. Bancroft is truly American Wathe Water Wizter & Windows ard. He is proud also specializes in to offer an amazthe installation of ing product: a punew and replaceAmerican Water & Windows’ purifier/water rifier anti-scale ment windows, conditioner. water conditioner so if you are lookwith no salt and no electricity required. ing to upgrade your home with custom, “It’s virtually maintenance-free. You high-efficiency windows before the hurnever have to buy salt again, and you ricane season, it can help. For informaonly have to change one filter every two tion, call 684-PURE(7873) or visit www. years,” said Bancroft. His customers rave americanwaterusa.com. It is open seven about the ease of operation and costs days a week from 9 a.m.-9 p.m., so it can that continually beat the competition. fit into your schedule.
Page 19
BRANDON ’86 ROTARY CLUB TREATS TEACHERS TO BBQ LUNCH IN APPRECIATION FOR ALL THEY DO FOR STUDENTS By Kathy L. Collins ed barbeque sauce. Earnheart said, “At the commercial kitchen, we smoked 26 pork butts, made 15 gallons of slaw and 10 gallons of BBQ sauce. The morning of the event, we put all the assembled all the meals with about 12 volunteers and the meals were personally delivered to the teachers by the Brandon ’86 Rotary Club Members.” Earnheart said, “We wanted Members of Brandon ’86 Rotary Club raised funds to provide a to recognize our local teachers free lunch to show appreciation to area teachers for their hard for all the hard work and dedwork and dedication during the past year. The food was prepared ication that they have had to by RBQ Catering and delivered to 455 teachers. endure this past year.” EarnRecently, Brandon ’86 Rotary Club, in heart added, “We went to social media to partnership with Nogard Insurance Group, secure individual and corporate sponsors Social Buzz Marketing and RBQ Catering, and were successful in getting 33 individual held a teacher appreciation event featuring and corporate sponsors, enough to provide a a free barbeque lunch. Teachers from area free lunch for each of the 455 teachers from Hillsborough County public schools, includour participating schools.” ing Brooker Elementary School, Kingwood The remaining funds raised will be distribElementary School, Burns Middle School uted to several local nonprofits that support and Bloomingdale High School, were treatarea families and children. These include ed to lunch. ECHO, Rotary’s Camp Florida, Family PromAccording to Laura Evans, social media ise and Everyday Blessings. chair for Brandon ’86 Rotary Club, “We held Evans said, “Our club has been in the comthis event to thank our local teachers for munity for over 35 years and we are activemaking a difference in our childrens’ lives ly involved in many hands-on projects, such over the last year throughout the pandemas Rotary’s Camp Florida, All Persons Park ic.” Johnson added, “This was a community and funding many local charities. We are event to let the teachers know that we were a fun group of business leaders that enjoy thinking about their hard work this year. supporting our local community. We meet Proceeds from our generous sponsors went on Friday mornings at 8 a.m. at the Rotary back to the local nonprofits that support our Event Center located at 3007 Kings Ave. in families and children.” Brandon.” The lunch was prepared by Roger EarnFor more information on Brandon ’86 Roheart of RBQ Catering and featured pulled tary Club, please visit http://brandon86ropork barbeque sandwiches with apple slaw, tary.com/. For more information on RBQ potato chips and three ounces of handcraftCatering, please visit www.rbqcatering.com.
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Page 20
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FFA COMPETITION GIVES STUDENTS CHANCE TO EXPLORE AQUACULTURE
By Brad Stager
Citrus groves and for a natural disascattle pastures may ter as a highlight of be the first things that their experience. come to mind when The FFA team thinking of Florida agrifrom Durant High culture, but the accomSchool in Plant City plishments of students garnered first place from two Hillsborough in the senior high County Florida FFA Asschool division. sociation (formerly FuAmong the activture Farmers of Amerities, the teams of ica) chapters highlight students were rethe important role of Teams of middle and quired to demonhigh school students fish farming, known strate knowlrecently competed in as aquaculture, to the edge of different a Florida FFA Assostate’s economy. aquatic species by ciation aquaculture Randall Middle competition in Ruskin. correctly identifySchool and Durant High ing them as well School students recently competed in a as parts of their structures and systems. statewide FFA career development event Florida’s aquaculture industry generthat demonstrated the wide breadth of ates about $100 million in sales annually, skills involved in raising fish for commer- according to the UF/IFAS website. Aquacial purposes. culture products include fish, plants, repThe competition was held in April at tiles, crustaceans and more. About half of the University of Florida Institute of Food the sales are related to tropical fish, with and Agricultural Sciences Tropical Aqua- Florida supplying 95 percent of the total culture Laboratory in Ruskin. raised and sold in the United States. Brittany Andrews is an agriculture adAccording to Deborah Pouder, coorvisor at Randall Middle School and she dinator of research programs and serexpressed pride in her students’ achieve- vices at the UF/IFAS Ruskin center, the ment of taking second place in the middle students also learn how to use technolschool competition. ogy to monitor aquatic crops as well as “Our team’s success was based on the the chemistry involved in raising them dedication of our amazing Randall stu- in water. She added that the goal of the dents. They worked and practiced in- competition is not intended so much to credibly hard. They also had a great time provide a pipeline of entry level workers going to a local fish farm to talk to the to the industry, but to develop abilities owner and learning by seeing real-world within the individual students. Florida aquaculture industry,” she said. “It teaches them a lot of different skills Andrews cited the Randall team’s presen- in life and it teaches them to become an tation of how fish farmers can prepare educated consumer,” said Pouder.
Volume 20, Issue 6
ALL ABOARD! THE TIKI BOAT OF RIVERVIEW IS READY TO SET SAIL By Kelly Wise Valdes custom 24 x 8 fully shaded boat has plenty of room for private groups to maintain current CDC social distancing guidelines. Hand sanitizer is available, and the boat is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each charter. The Tiki Boat offers charters in Eastern Tampa Bay, Alafia River, Beer Can Island, downtown Tampa and Hillsborough River. Wherever guests would like to go, The Tiki Boat can accommodate within the allotted time. “We can pick up charter guests from Riverview Civic Center, Williams Park, AJ’s on the River, River’s Edge, Davis The Tiki Boat of Riverview has set sail and is ready to Island Boat Ramp and the Tampa Bay provide a fun-filled day on the water for guests. History Center in downtown Tampa,” The Tiki Boat of Riverview is a new tisaid Foley. “We will do our best to accomki-themed boat that is setting sail in Hills- modate charter guest pickups and drop-offs borough County, offering a day of fun and at nearby authorized locations.” adventure down the Alafia River and waterA day on the water with The Tiki Boat ways of Tampa Bay. Owner and Captain Dan of Riverview will afford guests a safe, reFoley is a Riverview resident that has finally sponsible captain, which allows for a relaxmerged his love of water with his dream job ing and fun-filled day on Tampa Bay area of running a boat charter business. Prior to waters with dolphin, manatee and alligator launching The Tiki Boat of Riverview, Foley sightings; shelling; cold drinks; and beautiwas an account executive for a financial ful scenery. Guests also have access to the services firm in Tampa and most recently built-in Bluetooth stereo system, ice chest he was a captain for a tour boat operator in and onboard bathroom. Bring your favorite Pinellas County. food and drinks on board in your own cool“The water is my happy place and my er or use the cooler and ice aboard the boat. work commute from Riverview to the West- Guests 21 and older may bring adult bevershore area of Tampa was terrible,” said Foley. ages (no glass, please). “I wanted to bring the Tiki Boat to my homeNo food? No problem. There are many town of Riverview as an enjoyable getaway amazing local restaurants and bars along the for those in my community and visitors to river and throughout Tampa Bay for guests the Tampa Bay area. No charter is ever the to enjoy during their charter. same, I get to meet new people and serve “Weekends fill up quickly, but we run The the community I grew up and reside in.” Tiki boat seven days a week with four, six or The Tiki Boat is a brand-new 2021 cus- eight-hour charters, as well as sunset and tom-built boat in Hudson. The U.S. Coast night cruises,” said Foley. Visit www.thetikiGuard regulations for The Tiki Boat of Riv- boatofriverview.com, email info@tikiboatoferview is six charter guests plus crew. This riverview.com or call 815-6220.
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June 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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FAMILY PHYSICIAN USES TRUST AND TIME TO CONNECT WITH PATIENTS Staff Report Dr. Frank Sirchia, ists and all major hospiMD, a physician of tals in the area, including family medicine at Tampa General Hospital, Millennium Physician St. Joseph’s, Brandon Group, has been pracand Advent Hospitals. ticing in Riverview for We will efficiently prior26 years. He focusitize and respond to any es on prevention and of your medical needs chronic disease manto maximize your health agement and combines outcome,” he said. Dr. cutting-edge medicine Sirchia’s vision of patient and coordination of care includes providing care with a compasa medical home for his sionate approach. “I patients, and not just a Dr. Frank Sirchia, MD, a physician of put the patient first,” family medicine, has been practicing in service. he said. “This is what’s Riverview for 26 years and now works “My philosophy is to emwith Millennium Physician Group. in my heart and what I brace the patient and do trained for. It’s why I became a Family Med- everything in my power to improve their icine physician.” daily life and their quality of life,” he said. Dr. Sirchia treats patients of all ages. In “That relationship can only be forged from fact, he said he’s treated some local families trust and time.” for five generations. “The family approach Dr. Sirchia’s office is accepting new pato medicine is all about creating a con- tients, offers same-day appointments and nection with your patients,” he explained. urgent care and can also accommodate “When you’re able to create a relationship walk-ins. He and his team strive to avoid and build trust over years and generations, unnecessary hospitalizations and wasted it helps achieve an overall sense of well-be- emergency room visits. ing for the patient.” “Let’s create a strong foundation and Dr. Sirchia and his medical team pride get you on the right road,” he said. “Overthemselves on providing state-of-the-art, all well-being is the goal, and I hope my evidence-based, comprehensive medicine patients feel a lot better on their way out and practice preventive care. They empha- than when they came in.” He added, “Welsize treatment and management of major come to our family. It is time to be in your illnesses like coronary heart diseases, diabe- best health. As the physician leader of the tes, hypertension, lung disease, cancer and Millennium Physician Group in Brandon/ depression. Riverview, we are completely committed to Acknowledging the grassroots and serv- your total well-being, and the clinic is now ing the community in which he proudly ready to serve you.” Call 423-7123. The Millives is at the heart of his approach, said lennium Physician Group office is located at Dr. Sirchia. “Our expertise has earned the 6037 Winthrop Commerce Ave., Ste. 210, trust of families for 26 years, and we have in Riverview and is open Monday-Friday 7 strong relationships with leading special- a.m.-4 p.m.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BLOOMINGDALE GIRLS BASKETBALL PLAYER WINS AWARD OF MERIT IN
SALVADOR DALI PAINTING CONTEST By Nick Nahas The famous artist her original painting Salvador Dali once said, that she wasn’t happy “Surrealism is destrucwith and used oil paint tive, but it destroys only instead of acrylic to what it considers to be make it more airy and shackles limiting our realistic. Seltzer’s friend vision.” Bloomingdale told her that the dream girls basketball playwas the perfect subject er Emily Seltzer aptly matter for the painting. described winning the She then trusted the Award of Merit in this process, working on the year’s Dali Student Surpainting every day after realist Art Exhibition school for about three for her painting, Crusweeks, for a total of 20tacean Infestation, as 30 hours. surreal. The team captain The painting, which found out that she won was inspired by a nightthe award when her mare Seltzer had when teacher congratulated she was a child, in which her. Crustacean Infesshe was chased in the tation was displayed Grand Canyon by giant in the student section lobsters and crabs, was of the Dali Museum for the perfect subject matabout a month. Seltzer ter for this year’s Dali received free tickets to art competition theme the museum and took of ‘Delusions, Desires her family and friends and Delicacies.’ Seltzer, to check out her artnow looking back at the work. The painting was dream, views it as hujudged by museum cumorous, but at the time rators and art critics Crustacean Infestation was painted by she had the dream, she Bloomingdale High School student Emily who awarded her with Seltzer. was frightened by it. the honor. Photos courtesy of Emily Seltzer. “It’s one of those “This is such a big, dreams that you never forget,” said Seltzer. huge moment for me,” said Seltzer. “I really “I just thought that it would be a good idea will never forget this—it is incredible and to conquer my fear in that way and make I’m so excited. Just getting picked makes a joke of it, because you can do that with me feel so validated—it is so real, it’s honyour fears sometimes and it makes it more estly surreal.” palatable and more interesting.” Seltzer will receive a certificate for winThe junior basketball player, who has ning the Award of Merit, along with her been painting for as long as she can remem- plaque that was displayed with the paintber, stepped up her craft about five years ing. She will eventually get back her work, ago. Her mom gives her paint and canvases and she already has a special place on the as a birthday present every year, and she wall in her room to hang it. She is very is now getting commissioned for some of proud of the level of detail and dedication her work. She likes to paint as an outlet to that it took to paint it. express herself and release energy because “When you paint organic material, it’s reshe views herself as a person that isn’t ally easy to get obsessed in trying to make particularly vocal. Seltzer’s teacher, Diana it perfect, but that’s not life. Life isn’t perSpeedy, noticed her gift and encouraged her fect, and as an artist, you want to make it to enter the contest. symmetrical and perfect, but you can’t beSeltzer, who said that it was hard to get cause imperfection is what makes it organic started with the creative process, scrapped and beautiful.”
Volume 20, Issue 6
RANDALL MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT’S POEM RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION
By Tatiana Ortiz
More than ceiving national rec300,000 students ognition and this every year in pre-K award. through grade 12 “To know that across the country my poem had made and in United States it this far for just schools overseas being truthful and got an opportunity thoughtful felt to participate in the great,” Aaliyah said. National PTA ReShe considers flections program, writing a passion of which became eshers, which would tablished in 1969. be what sparked The program enAaliyah’s interest to courages students enter into this speto develop and subcific category. In mit original pieces fact, Aaliyah began of art in the mediher poetry journey in um of their choice the fifth grade. Her Seventh-grader Aaliyah Surujmohan from that reflects the Randall Middle School holding her Reflections Art mom, Aneesah Suruannual theme. This Program Award of Merit in Literature certificate. jmohan, and fifthyear’s theme was grade teacher had ‘I Matter Because…’, and the categories a huge influence on Aaliyah. As an avid included Visual Arts, Music Composition, reader, Aaliyah always turned to nonficLiterature, Photography, Film Production, tion books as a kid too, which would be Special Artist and Dance Choreography. another reason as to why she chose to More than 200 students on the nation- participate. al level were recognized with Awards of “As a parent, I am proud of Aaliyah and Excellence and Merit. A total of seven blown away of how she learned to write students got honored with the Outstand- poetry,” Aneesah said. ing Interpretation Award. Seventh-grad“For more than 50 years, the National er Aaliyah Surujmohan, PTSA writer at PTA Reflections program has provided Randall Middle School in Lithia, received opportunities for millions of students a Reflections Art Program Award of Mer- to access the arts and gain recognition, it in Literature from the National Parent which boosts student confidence and sucTeacher Association for her poem called cess in and out of the classroom,” said Who am I? With Aaliyah’s Award of Mer- Nathan R. Monell, CAE, National PTA exit, she received a bronze medal, Certificate ecutive director. of Merit and her work will be featured in For more information, visit https:// the traveling exhibit. www.pta.org/home/programs/reflecAaliyah shared how she felt about re- tions/awards.
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June 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk
Gifts For Dad Page 44 relief and improved mobility and flexibility. Forrester concentrates on creating custom sessions of massage and bodywork that feel both effective and comfortable, often using a variety of techniques. For more information, visit www.QualityLifeMassageTherapy.com or call 501-7568.
Bliss Nail Lounge Opens In FishHawk Ranch
Bliss Nail Lounge recently celebrated its grand opening at 5635 Circa FishHawk Blvd. in the new Publix plaza. There are 18 manicure and pedicure chairs in the lounge along with two full massage chairs to make sure clients are relaxed and pampered. What makes it one of a kind is that its products are all organic and it promotes nontoxic and safe beauty. For more information, call 444-5880 or follow it on Facebook @Blissfull5635.
Raining Berries Opening Soon
Raining Berries is bringing its premium acai bowls, fair trade coffee, smoothies and artisanal teas to Brandon. It will be opening in The Collection at Brandon Blvd. on SR 60 where Home Centric, Salons by JC and Home Centric are located. “As a company, we know the laughter, connections and memories that can be forged over a simple cup of coffee,
our philosophy is ‘Real People, Real Coffee, Real Life,’” states a Raining Berries press release. For more information on Raining Berries, visit its website at www.rainingberries.com.
New Vitality Center Moves To New Location
New Vitality Center has moved to a new location. Its mission is to provide clients with the tools necessary to defy the qualitative aspects of aging. Its full range of services allows it to offer its clients a whole-body approach to achieve optimal health. The center offers safe and effective therapies that will reverse the processes associated with aging and eliminate adverse effects associated with the aging process, allowing individuals to enjoy hap-
Hurricane Volleyball Academy Summer Schedule
py, healthy and active lifestyles well beyond expectations. New Vitality Center is located at 665 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. For more information, visit its website at https:// newvitalitycenters.com/ or call 4360708.
Quality Life Massage Therapy Reopens At New Location
Leslie Forrester first opened Quality Life Massage Therapy in 2011 and reopened on May 1 at a new location in the heart of Riverview within The Ancient Wisdom of Yoga Holistic Wellness Center at 10209 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview after an extended ‘pandemic pause.’ During this pause, she built on her skills; she specializes in therapeutic massage and focuses on pain
Hurricane Volleyball Academy is a coed, family-run volleyball club with over 25 years of teaching and coaching experience combined. It focuses on growth for any level; whether you are just starting to work on your volleyball game or trying to be recruited, it is the club to fit your needs. This summer, it is offering positionals, free clinics, college camps and team camps with tryouts for girls club, ages 10-18, on Saturday, July 10 and makeups on Saturday, July 17. Mini club tryouts for ages 9-14 will be held shortly afterward. Hurricane Volleyball Academy trains at Central Baptist Church in Brandon. For mor, visit www.hurricanevolleyballacademy.com or call 220-0905.
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED...
Bay Area Trust, LLC Buys Houses
Bay Area Trust, LLC has been in business since 2008 and will buy any house within an hour of Tampa, whether they are occupied, trashed, have bad tenants, etc. It has purchased hundreds of homes from $15,000 all the way up to $400,000 and its funds are available immediately. Local and reputable title companies are used and it is able to buy your home as quickly as you would like. It can buy houses as soon as the next day or can postpone until next year if you prefer. Bay Area Trust is located at 1902 W. Main St. in Tampa. For more information, visit its website at www.buy813.com or call 540-7375.
Pink Court Ballers Skills Academy Provides Mobile Training
Does your child want to get stronger and faster, jump higher and improve their sports skills? Coach Marvin Lee with Pink Court Ballers Skills Academy is ready to take them to the next level, all without leaving your driveway. It offers 1:1 skills training from beginner to pro, and with group training, team camps and individual camps either on-site or via mobile, it brings the training to you. Many sports benefit from its VertiMax training, including basketball, football, soccer, baseball, lacrosse and track and field. To find out more about the training offered, visit www.pinkcourtballers.com or call 334-303-8560.
Mobile RV Repair And Services Co-Owner Awarded Master RV Technician Designation
Mobile RV Repair and Services in Apollo Beach is proud to announce that its lead technician and co-owner, Julia Coheley, has been awarded the designation ‘Master RV Technician’ by Recreational Vehicle Service Academy (RVSA). RVSA-certified Master RV Technicians like Coheley have passed an extensive handson and written curriculum and a comprehensive final examination, and they have demonstrated proficiency, performance and professionalism. Mobile RV Repair and Services is a fivestar rated business serving Hillsborough and nearby counties. For more information, visit its website at www.mobilervrepairandservices.com or follow it on Facebook @mobilervrepairandservices.
Honeyz Fortune 5 Bling, Paparazzi Accessories Offers Bling On A Budget
Honeyz Fortune 5 Bling offers accessories for everyone regardless of your style or income due to the affordability of Paparazzi Accessories. It offers a variety of ways to shop its ever-changing inventory via its website; home, private or event gatherings; Facebook Live; and Zoom parties. “It’s a great way to have a fun-filled fundraiser by offering jewelry,” said Yolanda Harris, owner of Honeyz Fortune 5 Bling. The items avail-
Volume 20, Issue 6
able are priced at $1, $5 or $25 and are nickel and leadfree, including earrings, rings, bracelets, necklaces and even a children’s jewelry collection. Contact Honeyz Fortune 5 Bling at 317-203-9678, email honeyzfortune5@ gmail.com or visit https:// paparazziaccessories.com/ honeyz/.
Hgreg.com Opens Flagship Car Dealership In Brandon
Hgreg.com, one of the fastest-growing automotive groups in North America, opened the doors to its newest storefront in Brandon. Located at 1207 E. Brandon Blvd., the site features a 42,000-squarefoot, next-generation storefront, fulfillment center and inventory of more than 1,000 pre-owned vehicles. “We are happy to expand our team in the region and to make this property a key part of our plans for servicing customers up and down the coast through a combination of in-store experience when convenient and the digital experience,” said John Hairabedian, president and CEO of Hgreg. com. For more information, visit www.Hgreg. com or call 833-237-8572.
Home Clean Heroes Of Tampa Bay Recently Opened
Whether you live in a condo, town home, apartment or house, you deserve to enjoy your abode sans dust bunnies and grime. Adeola Shabiyi, owner of Home Clean Heroes of Tampa Bay, which recently held its grand opening, is thrilled to provide professional cleaning services to his neighbors, as everyday, hectic life can make it hard to keep your space dirt-free. A wide va-
riety of house cleaning services for both residential and commercial properties is available. Home Clean Heroes of Tampa Bay is currently located in the CubeSmart storage facility at 12902 U.S. Hwy. 301 S., #4008 in Riverview. For more information, visit its website at www.homecleanheroes.com/tampabay or call 295-8440.
Bump To Baby Boutique Celebrates 2 Years
Bump to Baby Boutique is celebrating two years in business. It is a boutique store offering unique maternity, baby gifts and clothes, and it is an exclusive retailer for Posh Peanut, Little Me and Itzy Ritzy. Its hours of operation are Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Thursday to Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Located in Erindale Plaza near Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. at 3642 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more information, visit www. b u m p to babyfl.com, call 418-2227 or visit the boutique’s Facebook page @ Bumptobabyfl.
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July 15, 2021
June 2021
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
TAMPA BAY SUMMER RV SHOW OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERY FAMILY By Sharon Still According to Kampgrounds of America’s (KOA) latest annual North American Camping Report, 10.1 million households camped for the first time in 2020; this is a five-fold increase over 2019. Additionally, the number of households that own RVs increased by 2.6 million compared to 2019. More than 60 percent of first-timer campers reported they planned to camp as much or more in 2021. Mark your calendars for Thursday, June 10 through Sunday, Those who have never been June 13 and head over to the Florida State Fairgrounds to enjoy RVing before will be amazed everything associated with RVing. at all the comforts of home in With the interest in Recreational Vehian RV these days and seasoned RVers can cles (RVs) on a constant rise, the Florida check out new products, shop for accessoRV Trade Association (FRVTA) expects this ries and more. It will be fun for the whole year’s Tampa Bay Summer RV Show to be family with a DJ, face painting and activities a big hit. Mark your calendars for Thursday, the kids. June 10 through Sunday, June 13 and head Admission is $5 per adult; children ages over to the Florida State Fairgrounds to en16 and under are free. Military and first rejoy everything associated with RVing. sponders are discounted $1 off the price of The Tampa Bay Summer RV Show will admission for all days of the show and sefeature multiple dealers showcasing severniors get a $1 discount on June 10. There al different brands and styles of RVs that also will be a $100 American Express Gift guests can tour, all in one location. There Card given away as a door prize each day. also will be a variety of vendor booths feaMasks will be required and social distancturing everything from RV necessities and ing will be in effect. Prior to the event, the accessories to RV rentals and campgrounds, entire show will be disinfected with KOCplus parts, household items and more. 86 sanitizer, which is EPA-Certified and “The RV Show is a great way for newbies lab-tested to kill human coronaviruses. to learn more about RVing or find the RV of Show hours are June 10 to June 12, 9 their dreams,” said Walt Williams, Suncoast a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, June 13, 10 a.m.-5 RV Rental co-owner and one of the vendors p.m. Leashed pets are welcome. in the show. “We have seen a lot of first-time The Florida State Fairground is located at RVers renting since the onset of COVID-19,” 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. To see a sneak peak he added. “In addition to RVing being the and opening day videos, subscribe to the safest way to travel, it is also a wonderful FRVTA YouTube page at https://www.youvacation alternative that many had not contube.com/frvta. sidered before.”
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Volume 20, Issue 6
June 2021
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
PEOPLES GAS REMINDS FLORIDIANS TO CALL 811 BEFORE STARTING DIGGING PROJECTS Staff Report Throughout April, Sunshine 811, Peoples cators will visit job sites and mark natural Gas and other utilities were promoting the gas lines around homes and businesses. 14th annual National Safe Digging Month, Here are some tips to remember: and although the month has passed, digCall 811 or visit sunshine811.com at ging safely is still least two full business a must. When digdays before digging to ging unprepared, make your request, givpeople risk hitting ing utility companies the network of enough time to propwires, cables and erly mark lines. When pipelines locatyou call 811, you will ed underground. be asked for the locaStriking one of tion(s) and description these underground Last month, Peoples Gas promoted National of your digging project. utility lines could Sunshine 811 notifies Safe Digging Month. Digging unprepared result in loss of nat- comes with the risk of hitting underground affected utility compaural gas, electric, utility lines and injuring yourself or others, nies, who then send a water or commu- potentially resulting in fines and repair costs, professional locator to so be sure to call 811 first. nications and cable mark the approximate services; injure you or others; and poten- location of underground equipment for tially result in fines and repair costs. free. “Thousands of our customers saw their Check the Sunshine 811 Positive Renatural gas service impacted by damage to sponse link at sunshine811.com and, once pipelines during excavation or DIY projects all utilities have responded, roll up those last year,” said Luke Buzard, vice president sleeves and dig carefully within 24 inches of Pipeline Safety and Regulatory Affairs of any marks in your project area. for Peoples Gas. “When homeowners forEven if you are not digging, remember get to call 811 before digging, they run the to leave any markers—paint or flags—in risk of damaging their own service lines. place. They are a sign of work that may When excavators don’t follow safe digging be coming soon to your area by a utility or practices, even if they call 811 ahead of a contractor. project, the impact is much greater—hunPeoples Gas System, Florida’s largest dreds of residents and businesses can lose natural gas distribution utility, serves more utility service from just one hit line.” than 425,000 customers across the state. Call 811 and Sunshine 811—a call cen- Peoples Gas is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a ter and educational resource for Florida’s geographically diverse energy and services excavators, underground facility owners company headquartered in Halifax, Nova and operators and any other stakeholders Scotia, Canada. wanting to prevent excavation damage to For more information, visit peoplesgas. underground facilities—will notify all ap- com and sunshine811.com. For a step-bypropriate utility companies of your intent step process to digging safely, visit www. to dig, and then Peoples Gas’ team of lo- sunshine811.com/homeowner/.
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A KID’S PLACE TEACHES KIDS HOW TO CULTIVATE PRODUCE
By Samantha Trezevant
kitchen coordinator. Jeff Krenz, property manager, even said that “There are little tiny blossoms and teeny-tiny tomatoes and peppers already.” ACF Tampa Bay Culinary Association is who made this experience possible, particularly Vanessa and Rene Marquis. Their team graciously provided the supplies and knowledge on how to plant and grow their own fruits and vegetables. The process allowed
The children from A Kid’s Place learning all about how to plant fruits and veggies.
Childhood is an era of growth and learning in every child. A Kid’s Place ensures that every child it cares for experiences the best learning experience possible. Since 2009, A Kid’s Place has been serving Tampa’s community by touching the lives of over 1,520 children and 665 families through providing a safe haven for foster children as well as an amazing educational program. The newest addition to the organization is a garden. This garden is rooted in the belief that it is important for every child to learn about the growth of produce. The mission of the garden program is to connect children with nature and promote an understanding of vegetable planting and their role in healthy eating habits. This aids A Kid’s Place’s overall mission of providing a safe, loving and nurturing home for foster children. It was a special experience for the children; “The kids have been so excited to check the progress of the garden and help take care of it,” according Laura Herres,
the children to explore their inner creative side by personalizing the buckets that their produce was planted in. The children enjoyed getting their hands dirty, and even playing food-themed games. The kids loved this as it actually gave them a chance to play with their food. Soon, they will harvest their own fruits and veggies on harvest day. You can help support A Kid’s Place by donating to it, hosting a fundraiser, volunteering, hosting a drive and even shopping. To learn more, visit https://akidsplacetb. org/ways-to-help/, or visit its Facebook and Twitter pages @AKidsPlaceTB.
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Welcome to the newest members of the Valrico Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce! Pronesis Technology Group ∙ 3 C’s Catering ∙ Florida Academy of Performing Arts, Inc. ∙ Messer Productions ∙ AR Workshop Brandon EZ Choice Realty ∙ New York Life Insurance Company FirstLight Home Care ∙ Integrity First Financial ∙ The Salt Grotto Creative Apogee ∙ Hammer & Stain Riverview ∙ The Reading Doctor Konitzer Family Travel DBA Cruise Planners of Valrico ∙ Ragamuffin Outpost ∙ JCE Solar Solutions ∙ Boohoff Law ∙ CertiPay Keep I.T. Simple Computer Services, LLC ∙ Patriot Group @Impact Realty Tampa Bay ∙ Southshore Insurance Professionals LLC Bryan Hindman Electric LLC ∙ Macfarlane Ferguson & McMullen, PA P F Auto Glass Inc. ∙ The Cottonseed Marketplace Hope Chiropractic ∙ NEXA Mortgage, LLC Hillsborough Community College
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 The Willow Tree Hair and Lash Studeo located at Court & Spark, 911 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., in Hillsborough County, in the city of Brandon, FL 33510 intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida Dated at Valrico, Florida this 1st day of June 2021
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
GET THE DIRT:
RAINWATER HARVESTING: NOW’S A GOOD TIME TO READY, SET AND CAPTURE BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT If you haven’t attended a rainwater harvesting workshop with our office, you should. It’s that time of year again when the rains commence, and we can most certainly take advantage of the season. Rainwater harvesting is a great way to capture and utilize this free resource. We offer rainwater harvesting workshops where participants learn how to set up their rain barrels, connect more than one barrel and install overflow accommodations. Instructions regarding safety considerations, maintenance and painting barrels are also presented. Rain barrels are devices that collect rainwater used mainly for landscape irrigation. These devices reduce stormwater runoff and erosion because they catch and contain it. Rain barrels also decrease the amount of potable water used for landscape irrigation because you use the water you capture to irrigate your plants. Rainwater harvesting is important because 1 inch of rain on a 1,000-square-foot roof yields 623 gallons of water. Florida’s annual precipitation average is 54.57 inches. Each of us could harvest more than 34,000 gallons. That’s why participants are taught how
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to make their own rain barrels, because one is definitely not enough. Past workshop attendees have said that since attending this training, they have purchased additional rain barrels from feed stores or online. Also, they love the conservation aspects of rainwater harvesting and are glad to do their part in decreasing stormwater runoff and erosion. Most wish they had more barrels. Attend a rainwater harvesting workshop with our office and learn another water conservation method. We also teach three types of microirrigation (traditional, patio/container and vegetable garden). Follow your homeowners association architectural control or landscape committee procedures before you incorporate changes in your landscapes. To register for rainwater harvesting and other workshops in Hillsborough County, please go to https://sfyl.ifas. ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/. We provide one rain barrel per household which has been drilled and spigoted. Some rules apply. As always, remember to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat. Each of us can make an environmental difference. Contact Lynn Barber at labarber@ufl.edu.
by Bay Area Clean Team
Volume 20, Issue 6
2021 COMMUNITY WATER WISE AWARDS PROGRAM By Lynn Barber, FL-Friendly Landscaping™ Agent The deadline for entries is Wednesday, June 30. You can complete your application now, which will take about five to 10 minutes, then submit it online at the link above. Attaching a photo or two is helpful. On-site landThe City of Tampa Community Water Wise Award winner is Anni Ellis. scape evaluDoes your landscape have what it takes ations will be scheduled and conducted to win? Enter today to find out. in July and August, with homeowners The 2021 Community Water Wise and business owners available. Winning Awards, sponsored by Tampa Bay Water, entries will receive a handmade mosawere created to recognize individuals and ic stepping stone for homeowners or a businesses committed to conserving our plaque option for businesses. If you have water resources and protecting the envi- questions regarding the Tampa Bay Waronment by using Florida-Friendly Land- ter Community Water Wise Award proscaping™ (FFL) principles. There are nine gram, please contact me at 744-5519, ext. FFL principles which include: right plant, 54105. right place; water efficiently; fertilize apToday is a great time to complete and propriately; mulch, attract wildlife; man- submit your application. For more inage yard pests responsibly; recycle; re- formation about the Florida-Friendly duce stormwater runoff; and protect the Landscaping™ Program, assistance with waterfront. Many of these principles are gardening and irrigation system-related used as part of the landscape evaluation questions, contact the UF/IFAS Extenprocess for this awards program. sion Hillsborough County at 744-5519, You can view photographs and watch and visit our website at http://sfyl.ifas. short videos of past winners at https:// ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/ awards.tampabaywaterwise.org/. The top for upcoming workshops. We hope to rephoto on this link is the 2020 Unincor- ceive your entry soon. Thanks in advance porated Hillsborough County Community for participating. Contact Lynn Barber at Water Wise Award-winning landscape. barberL@hcflgov.net.
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
June 2021
Page 31
LOCAL FARMS PROVIDE INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES IN ORDER TO SUPPORT THEIR SANCTUARIES By Samantha Trezevant
Roos and Coos Owner Christina Peters getting love from one of her cows.
Families looking to have some fun outdoors while learning a little too don’t have to look far. Two local farms are inviting residents to their property to learn about animals and more. Located in Plant City, Roos and Coos Farm is a farm experience for the books. It houses animals from around the world and offers tours on weekends. Roos and Coos Farm is also a USDA and FWC-licensed facility that breeds livestock as well as rescues and provides a sanctuary to exotic animals. The farm began as a livestock business, but has expanded into a rescue facility as well and was recently approved to be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit exotic animal rescue and sanctuary. Visitors are welcome to bring fruits and veggies to feed all the animals and can also hold and pet many of them. The tours serve as a way to raise money to help care for the animals and are offered on the weekends by appointment, and although they are free, donations are appre-
Roos and Coos’ Miss Piggy dressed up and smiling for a picture.
ciated as they help to continue the care for the exotic animals. The farm’s mission is to educate people about the various animals that it has as well as to provide education about good animal husbandry and responsible pet ownership. Animals range from exotic livestock to exotic animals like kangaroos and different species of primates. Learn more on Facebook at Roos and Coos Farm and on Instagram @roosandcoosfarm and support it by donating through its Amazon Wish List. A second lovely local option is First Ladies Farm and Sanctuary. For four years now, its owners and volunteers have made beautiful lives for rescued kittens and cats along with cultivating produce for the shoppers that come in. Not only is this farm a heartwarming facility, it is also honors the First Ladies of the United States. Thanks to donations and volunteers, the farm has been able to transform hundreds of lives, both humans and cats. First Ladies Farm placed 13 kittens in new homes in
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A rescued kitten ‘driving’ around.
A cat hard at work on the farm.
2018, 53 in 2019 and over 300 in 2020. Not only does it save cats, it is also the only rescue and sanctuary for domestic poultry on the Florida Gulf Coast. This means the farm is occupied by numerous chickens, ducks, geese and peafowl, as well as dogs, many with special needs having survived dumping, abuse and even arson—and, of course, kittens and cats. The amazing work of the farm is made possible through adoption of the kittens and support from the community. Donations are welcomed within the farm as it is very costly to treat, feed, care for and
house every animal that comes through the doors. Fresh produce, preserves, treats, clothes and more can be purchased on the farm site. All of these profits go directly to the care of the animals. Donations of money, food, litter and medicines are appreciated and residents can purchase items off its Amazon Wish List and volunteer. Every cat is spayed/neutered, vaccinated, healthy, microchipped and can be adopted, but cats cannot be dropped off at the location. Learn more at firstladiesfarm.com or on FaceBook.
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Page 32
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
PACE CENTER FOR GIRLS AND STATE FARM DONATE TO SENIORS
FIRST TEE – TAMPA BAY BREAKS FUNDRAISING RECORD
Staff Report
citizens are more vulnerable than ever due to the pandemic and are experiencing increased isolation and loneliness. While we’ve been able to brighten someone’s day, our agents have also helped girls learn important life skills, such as organization, teamwork and the importance of giving back.” State Farm is committed to helping build safer, stronger and better-educated communities. Local agents worked alongside Pace girls to give Pace Center for Girls used a grant from State Farm to make back to their community. In admore than 500 COVID-19 care packages for seniors in the dition to developing and delivGreater Tampa Bay area. ering the care packages, Pace Pace Center for Girls (Pace), a nationalgirls were introduced to new ly recognized program that provides girls career opportunities across a variety of and young women an opportunity for a industries including insurance, community better future through education, coun- service and elder care. seling, training and advocacy, received “At Pace, our girls’ service-learning an $85,000 grant from the State Farm experiences are closely tied to their deCompanies Foundation, which gives char- velopment and future success,” said itable grants to nonprofit initiatives that Tanya Hollins, vice president of program help build up and meet the needs of their operations and strategic implementation communities. The funding supports Pace’s for Pace. “Acknowledging the power of service-learning program designed to help community and instilling the importance girls engage in leadership development of community involvement supports girls’ and give back to their local communities. healthy development. Generous donations Local Pace girls and State Farm agents and grants like this one from State Farm delivered more than 500 COVID-19 care make programs like this possible, teachpackages to seniors in the Greater Tam- ing Pace girls these valuable life lessons.” pa Bay area through the service-learning For more than 36 years, Pace has improgram. This statewide initiative took pacted the lives of more than 40,000 place across all Pace centers, totaling girls and young women, helping them heal over 2,100 care packages. from past trauma and create a better fu“Working with Pace girls to give back ture through education, counseling, trainto our community has been a rewarding ing and advocacy. experience,” said Jose Soto, State Farm For more information about Pace Cencorporate responsibility analyst. “Senior ter for Girls, please visit pacecenter.org.
Volume 20, Issue 6
Staff Report
el of support will help ensure the sustainability of this great resource that impacts so many of our youth year after year.” First Tee – Tampa Bay provides more than 90,000 children each year with hands-on, interactive golf experiences along with introducing them to the First Tee Nine Core Values. Besides being part of the Tampa YMCA, First Tee – Tampa Bay also partners with community First Tee – Tampa Bay, a part of the Tampa Metmembers such as the ropolitan Area YMCA, recently held a successful Tampa Sports Authorfundraiser. ity, the City of Tampa, First Tee – Tampa Bay, a part of the TamHillsborough County pa Metropolitan Area YMCA, is celebrating Public Schools and varia record-breaking night thanks, in part, to ous golf facilities to offer Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. year-round programming for kids and teens. Governor DeSantis served as the keynote “At First Tee – Tampa Bay, we do not just speaker for First Tee – Tampa Bay’s fourth teach golf, we teach life skills,” said Gary annual Dinner Gala and Live Auction at Pal- Koch, First Tee – Tampa Bay’s board chair, ma Ceia Golf & Country Club, sponsored by former pro golfer and current NBC golf Foley & Lardner LLP, on April 14. His inspira- broadcaster. “Our program uses the game tional words helped bring in a record-break- of golf to provide young people with the ing $1.3 million, including a $150,000 gift chance to develop life-enhancing values like from Troy and Elizabeth Fowler through the confidence, perseverance and judgment and Triad Foundation, to help more local kids a series of life skills such as goal setting, learn life lessons through the game of golf. meeting new people and staying healthy.” “We all know that 2020 was a difficult Governor DeSantis joined the list of pretime for many organizations, First Tee in- vious honored guests at First Tee – Tampa cluded,” said Executive Director Ian Baxter. Bay’s annual Dinner Gala and Live Auction, “We are so grateful to all of our generous including 18-time major champion Jack supporters for helping us get back to doing Nicklaus, TV golf commentator David Fewhat we do best—serve the children of the herty and PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Tampa Bay community.” Monahan. Next year’s event is tentatively “It is tremendous to see our communi- scheduled for April 14. ty’s key stakeholders come out to support To learn more about First Tee, visit www. the First Tee program,” said Tampa YMCA firstteetampabay.org. President and CEO Matt Mitchell. “This lev-
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
June 2021
ACE GOLF OFFERS FREE GOLF FOR KIDS THIS SUMMER Staff Report Are the kids driving you crazy and playing after 12 Noon every day through the end of too many video games this summer? Want October. to have them do something healthy and learn Ace Golf Range is located at 12910 a lifelong sport? Ace Golf is offering a free Boyette Rd. in Riverview and can be reached summer golf practice program for kids age at 672-7750. It is open daily until 10 p.m. 5 to 15. Every day from Tuesday, June 1 through Tuesday, August 31, kids can sign up to receive a free small bucket of range balls each day for the whole summer. Kids hit the balls on the practice ranges at Tampa Bay area Ace Golf locations. And, it’s all free. “There are a lot of families out there that just can’t afford to put kids in camps or they just want something productive to fill their summer,” said Bill Place, owner of Ace Golf Ranges and Golf Courses. “We want to help, and hopefully in the process we may find the next Every day from Tuesday, June 1 through Tuesday, August 31, kids can sign up to receive a free small bucket of range Tiger Woods.” balls at Ace Golf in Riverview. How it works: • Children may sign up for free at any of The facilities feature lighted golf practice five Ace Golf locations in Riverview, Tampa, ranges, miniature golf and batting cages. For Land O’Lakes and Tarpon Springs. more information, visit ace-golf.com. Ace • Each child receives a daily stamp card for Golf Courses include Pebble Creek Golf Club one free small bucket each day. at 10550 Regents Park Dr. in New Tampa • Each time the child redeems their free (phone: 973-3870, website: pebblecreekclub. bucket, they will get a stamp on their card com), Plantation Palms Golf Club in Land noting the redemption. An adult must ac- O’Lakes (phone: 996-4653, website: plantacompany them. tionpalms.net) and Crescent Oaks Country • No purchase is necessary. Kids should Club at 3300 Crescent Oaks Blvd. in Tarpon bring a golf club with them or may rent one. Springs (phone: 727-937-4653, website: • At the Riverview and Land O’ Lakes loca- crescentoaksgolf.com). tions, kids may substitute miniature golf (one All Ace Golf Courses are open to the public round per day) instead of the small bucket and offer membership, dining and banquet each day. centers. Ace Golf is locally family-owned by In addition to the Free Bucket or Mini-Golf Su Lee and Bill Place since 1993. In addition program, kids may also play golf for free to the free kids program, each location offers when accompanied by a paying parent at summer golf camps, clinics as well as private all Ace Golf Courses (18-hole golf courses) and group golf lessons.
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Page 33
KIDS BOWL FREE PROGRAM RETURNS TO
BRANDON CROSSROADS BOWL By Tatiana Ortiz Those with opportunity to some spare time learn the sport can receive two in hopes that free games of they will want bowling every to join our Satday this summer urday morning from now unbowling protil Wednesday, gram,” White September 15, said. through the Kids B r a n d o n Bowl Free proCrossroads Bowl gram at Brandon became estabCrossroads Bowl. lished in 1990. Kids Bowl Free, The 40,000 sq. a nationally recft. sports enterognized program tainment censince 2008, is ter features 40 geared toward Kids participating in the Kids Bowl Free program enjoy- bowling lanes, ing themselves at Brandon Crossroads Bowl. kids ages 2-16. private event A parent or guardian must register their space for parties, billiards, a BCB Pub and child on the website. Times to bowl during Grill and more. In addition, for more than the program varies, depending on the day. two decades Brandon Crossroads Bowl Bowling shoe rentals will need to be paid dominated the league bowling market by for. consistently delivering the highest bowlAndy White, general manager at Bran- ing scores in the Tampa Bay area. With don Crossroads Bowl, mentioned how that in mind, it also led the market with many years that their bowling alley par- many of its youth programs and much ticipated in the Kids Bowl Free program. more. “This would be our third year being in“At Brandon Crossroads Bowl, we are volved with it,” White said. very community oriented,” White said. Select schools and bowling centers “Bowling is all about spending time with throughout the country offer the Kids your family and friends,” he added. Bowl Free program. The design of this To register, visit www.kidsbowlfree. program displays an avenue for the bowl- com/center.php?alley_id=6921. For more ing centers to give back to the communi- information, visit www.kidsbowlfree.com. ty. It also administers a secure, safe and It is located at 609 Crater Ln. in Tampa fun way for kids to spend their summer. and is open Monday through Thursday, White shared what would be one of the 11 a.m.-12 Midnight; Friday through Satgoals with the Kids Bowl Free program. urday, 9-2:30 a.m; and Sunday, 9 a.m.-12 “With this program, it gives the kids an Midnight. Call 621-2363.
Page 34
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
LOCAL CLOTHING COMPANY AIMS TO EMBRACE DIVERSITY By Libby Hopkins
ShapeShifter Fish and the kickoff of its commuFriends is a new sun-pronity program, appropritective activewear comately called Project FIN pany created to inspire (Friends In Need), to profriendships, support divide sun-protective shirts versity and motivate you for the homeless in Tampa to get outside. Bay, who have an extreme“ShapeShifter Fish ly high risk for skin cancer. and Friends was started “It’s crazy, in early October 2020, there are a during a time when we ton of fishing felt the world needed shirt-style more positivity, especompanies in cially our youth, and a Florida and reminder that we can I could not all look different, think find a single one that is different, whatever, yet doing this, so there is defistill be friends,” said nitely a need,” Aller said. Co-Founder Maria Aller. “Our partner and printer, “We wanted to create an LogoHQ generously donatall-inclusive community ed their time to help print where it is encouraged our first batch of shirts. to be yourself, to be difOn May 1, we were able ferent and embrace this to kick off Project FIN and idea that we are united by ShapeShifter Fish and Friends is a give the first set of UPF50+ branded community featuring Tam- shirts to Tampa Homeless this diversity.” ShapeShifter Fish and pa Bay marine life. Each design is Outreach at a charity event made up of different shapes, different Friends is a branded comheld at Brandon Harley-Dacolors, different sizes and printed on munity featuring Tampa vidson. Also beginning May UPF50+ long-sleeve shirts. Bay marine life. Each de1, a portion of proceeds of sign is made up of different shapes, differ- every ShapeShifter Fish and Friends shirt ent colors and different sizes and printed we sell will be donated to continue Project on UPF50+ long-sleeve shirts to encour- FIN. Very soon, we will also be setting up age you to go outside, where friendships additional online donation opportunities are made and nurtured. “Friendship is the for any of our friends, old or new, who also foundation of a healthy childhood, suc- want to contribute to help us grow our cessful partnerships and thriving commu- reach and provide even more shirts all over nities,” Aller said. “We invite people to be Florida.” part of our circle of friends, where everyTo learn more about ShapeShifter Fish body is welcome.” and Friends as well as Project FIN, you ShapeShifter Fish and Friends recent- can visit their website at www.ssfishandly decided to create and personally fund friends.com.
EXPIRES: 6/30/2021
Volume 20, Issue 6
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
June 2021
Page 35
LOCAL TEEN PUBLISHES
BREAKTHROUGH CHILDREN’S BOOK By Amy Schechter What were you doand now he plans ing when you were to make writing a 17? Were you eagercareer. His mothly awaiting your high er, Ashley Smith, school prom? Were you could not be more begging your parents proud: “We are to take the car out on over the moon. We a Friday night? Were were ecstatic when you running right from we found out they school to your first wanted to publish it. job to earn some exIt felt unreal.” tra cash? You probably However, when weren’t publishing your you meet Lincoln, it first book, but Lincoln is absolutely real; his Lincoln Smith, a young author, poses with Smith, an aspiring talent is apparent. Daisy, the inspiration behind Lazy Daisy. young author, is living He is well-spoken, this reality. mature and obserAfter joining a writing vant, qualities needed class, Lincoln found his in a blossoming author. passion, and he didn’t need Plus, once he starts to look far for inspiration. something, he sees it His dog, Daisy, became through. He is working his muse, and he penned a on making Lazy Daisy a children’s book which beseries, and next up will came her namesake, Lazy be Lazy Daisy Goes to Daisy. Daisy dreams of New York City, which he being a hero, but there’s is currently drafting. one problem: she’s just so Lincoln and Daisy lazy. She lounges around are available for readday in and day out, eating ings if local schools and sleeping; she cannot bring herself to or home school groups are interested. put in the effort. But what will Daisy do With COVID-19 precautions, they are when a dark figure appears in the night open to meeting at local parks in openand threatens her family? You will have air settings. Lazy Daisy is available for to read to find out. purchase directly from Olympia PublishLincoln partnered with his friend, Tee- ers at olympiapublishers.com/books/ gan Hernandez, who illustrated the story lazy-daisy, Amazon and Barnes & Noble after spending some time with the real (both online and at the Brandon locaDaisy, and soon after Olympia Publish- tion). If you are interested in booking ers picked it up. “It’s a dream come true. Lincoln for a reading, please message his Ever since I wrote this book, I found out mother, Ashley, at ashabee81@hotmail. how much I love this job,” Lincoln said, com.
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
June 2021
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
RANDALL MIDDLE SCHOOL DOMINATES STATE FFA COMPETITION PRODUCING TWO FIRST-PLACE TEAMS
A HALF PENNY MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE FOR SCHOOLS By Michelle Caceres
By Hayley Fedor As one of the primary extracurricular activities offered at Randall Middle School, the FFA department had the opportunity to represent the school at the State FFA Competition earlier this year and brought back the gold. Both the Food Science and Technology team as well as the Meats Evaluation team placed first out of From left to right: Coach Kassy Mendenall, five other top schools in Imogen Lanzetta, Kenzie Keller, Samantha their categories. Brenner and Bianca Sitzmann took first On January 30, the place in the Food Science and Technology State FFA Competition State Competition with their winning product idea called Bakin’ Bagels. for Food Science and Technology took place virtually as a result of the pandemic, which prevented the teams from competing at the University of Florida; however, later in the year on April 17, the state competition for Meats Evaluation occurred in person at the University of Florida. “Winning the competition after studying and practicing for months showed that being de- The first-place Meats Evaluation team with termined and working Coach Brittany Andrews. The team gained hands-on experience at meat markets to hard pays off in the end,” prepare for competition. said Brittany Andrews, advisor and coach for the Meats Evaluation team at Randall Middle School. Behind the scenes, both teams put in the work; the first-place Food Science and Technology team practiced twice a week after school from September until the competition day, and the Meats Evaluation team visited local meat markets to speak to professional butchers and learn about different cuts of The Randall FFA Meats meat in person. Evaluation team taking For the Food Science the extra time to study and Technology team, together before the state practicing consisted of “…a competition. marketing [or] product development scenario. They would have one hour to read the scenario, pick the ingredients, develop a product and create a marketing pitch based on the informa-
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tion given to them in the scenario,” said Kathryn Mendenall, advisor and coach for the Food Science and Technology team at Randall Middle School. During the actual state competition, the Randall students were tasked with creating a breakfast sandwich and a marketing proposal. In response, the team pitched a product to the judges called Bakin’ Bagels which stole the show. “Sometimes, these events allow the students to learn even more material than they would from our traditional curriculum,” said Mendenall. On the other hand, the Meats Evaluation team demonstrated their knowledge at the state competition by identifying different retail cuts of meat on different animals and by taking a 20-question written examination. As attested by Randall FFA Coaches Andrews and Mendenall, participating in the FFA program and having the opportunity to compete in state-level competition not only cultivates students’ leadership potential but also emphasizes the positive impact that agricultural education can have on careers in the future.
Page 37
The Citizen Oversight Committee has been responsible for reviewing all spending related to the more than $260 million raised by the half-penny sales tax increase.
Some citizens want to eliminate the penny from circulation, saving the government close to $85 million annually, but pennies become dollars, and dollars can become millions. In November 2018, voters in Hillsborough County passed the half-penny sales tax Education Referendum, which was expected to raise millions of dollars to improve facilities and other capital projects, from replacing air conditioning units to new roofs to repaving parking lots. To date, the district has received more than $260 million. That’s a lot of half-pennies. “The Education Referendum has been a vital resource these past two years, giving our district the ability to create the right learning environment for all students,” said Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Addison Davis. The independent Citizen Oversight Committee, made up of members from a wide range of political, geographic, ethnic and professional backgrounds, was formed to
review all spending related to the $121-$131 million a year generated by the sales tax. The district has spent $240,146,730.64 so far on projects throughout the district. In our area, the sales tax funded Bevis Elementary and Randall Middle Schools’ AC unit upgrades last summer, stage lighting and AC upgrades at Lithia Springs Elementary, grades K-3 and 4-5 playgrounds at Alafia Elementary and a pre-K playground at Pinecrest Elementary. In the future, funds will be used for fire evacuation improvements and network infrastructure at Barrington Middle, a fire alarm control system and playgrounds at Bevis, bleachers and grandstands and painting and waterproofing at Bloomingdale High, an AC overhaul at Cimino and FishHawk Creek Elementary, a public address system at Newsome High, gym floor repair at Randall and fire evacuation improvements at Stowers Elementary. In all, the district expects to complete more than 1,700 projects in the next decade, including more than 2,000 AC units and more than 60 aging roofs, and spend $23 million in upgrading safety and security systems and providing state-of-the-art equipment and facilities designed to create a safe environment for learners. For info, visit https://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/ doc/2380/investing-in-students/resources/ cocprojectupdates/.
Page 38
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
GREAT SHOP LOCAL IDEAS FOR FATHER’S DAY GIFTS By Kate Quesada
Summerfield Crossings Golf Club is offering a Summer Membership Special this month.
AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor is offering its annual Jack Daniel’s Engraving Event on Saturday, June 12 from 6-9 p.m.
Shopping for Father’s Day can be intimidating, but whether Dad is a griller, a golfer or a collector, we are here to help. There are many local businesses that can make it easy to show Dad how much he means to you.
Summerfield Club
Crossings
Golf
River Hills Country Club offers the gift of a golf membership.
Bloomingdale Rare Coins and Gold offers unique gifts for Dad.
The Cottonseed Marketplace offers personalized gifts for dad’s with all types of interests.
Barrel Proof, Jack Daniel’s Frank Sinatra, Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniel’s Gold, Woodford Reserve Bourbon and Herradura Tequila. To learn more, call 654-6488. AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquors is located at 3443 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.
elry in all conditions. The store is located at 1544 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico and can be reached at 438-8889. Search for ‘Bloomingdale Rare Coins and Gold’ on Facebook to keep up with current offers.
River Hills Country Club
Located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in the Winn-Dixie Plaza, FishHawk Pinch A Penny has the perfect gift for dads who like to grill. The store is a local Big Green Egg Headquarters with all sizes of the special grills and everything you need to go with one, from spices and charcoal to grilling tools and tables. The store is open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and on Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and can be reached at 655-3700.
Located just off Big Bend Rd. in Riverview, Summerfield Golf Club is a public 18 holes golf course with a driving range and practice facility also offering a clubhouse where dad can get something to eat or drink. The club is offering a Summer Membership Special this month starting at only $69. For more information, visit www.summerfieldgc.com or call 671-3311.
River Hills Country Club (RHCC) in Valrico is offering the gift of golf membership this year. A private club located in the River Hills Community, RHCC offers membership at varying budget levels, from budget to full privilege. Amenities include the 18hole course, tennis, swimming, fitness and much more, including family events like a Father-Daughter Dance. To learn more, call 653-1554.
AJ’s Fine Wine
Bloomingdale Rare Coins And Gold
AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor is offering its annual Jack Daniel’s Engraving Event on Saturday, June 12 from 6-9 p.m. This year’s event will feature eight different liquors to choose from for the bottle engraving. The eight liquors that can be purchased for engraving are Jack Daniel’s, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, Jack Daniel’s
FishHawk Pinch A Penny is a local Big Green Egg Headquarters.
If you are looking for a unique gift for Dad, visit Bloomingdale Rare Coins and Gold. Recently opened, the store is owned by a graduate gemologist and offers a variety of gifts, including thousands of coins for collectors of all levels. The store also purchases coins, bullion, watches and jew-
FishHawk Pinch A Penny
Cottonseed Marketplace The Cottonseed Marketplace is a homegrown and handmade local small business rooted in Valrico, specializing in creating life-inspired designs for engraved gifts, home accents and holiday decor. The store offers ‘grab-and-give’-themed gift sets as well as ‘build-your-own’ gift sets just for Dad. Themes include dad’s vices, beer and
Trilogy Dive Center is a family-owned retail dive store and training center offering private and group scuba training classes.
cigars. There are also personalized golf bag tag/tee holders, hat clips with golf ball markers, divot tools with ball markers and, due to a collaboration with local woodworker and Tampa Police Officer Jeremy Wells of Wells Woodworking, engraved and personalized solid hardwood cutting boards. All items are sold separately and most can be combined into gift sets. To learn more, visit https://cottonseedmarketplace.com/ or www.facebook. com/TheCottonseedMarketplace.
Trilogy Dive Center If Dad is adventurous and loves the water, scuba classes could be a great gift. Trilogy Dive Center is a family-owned retail dive store and training center offering private and group scuba training classes. The store provides entry level scuba all the way to scuba instructor with local and international trips. Trilogy is located at 4501 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa and can be reached at 425-3500 and scuba@trilogyscuba.com. For more information, visit www.trilogyscuba.com or www.facebook.com/trilogyscuba.
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
June 2021
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CONNECTION CENTER OFFERS WIDE ARRAY OF ASSISTANCE FOR THE ELDERLY
By Kathy L. Collins
For elderly individuals and the number one type of actheir caregivers, finding the cident that leads to emeranswers to questions on aging gency room visits among can be quite a daunting task. people over 65. A serious Senior Connection Center is a fall oftentimes means a nonprofit that has been dedlengthy hopsital stay and icated to helping people age may even require placeat home with dignity for 40 ment in a nursing home. years. If you live in one of the Senior Connection Cenfive counties, including Hillster works directly with borough, where Senior Constate and community partSenior Connection Center team nection Center operates, you members ners to prevent the abuse, Paula Nelson and Frank can get its services for free. neglect and exploitation Wagoner unload a shipment of Senior Connection Center masks that were then distributed to of seniors. To report ellocal seniors. can help with many issues der abuse, please contact and offers many services, including the Elder 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873). Helpline, where you can get valuable inforHelping the elderly and their caregivers mation and referral assistance on programs navigate the maze of information and serand services. This can include long-term care vices available is always important, but it is and other home-based services. especially important during a pandemic. At Its specially trained SHINE (Serving Health this time, due to the pandemic, Senior ConInsurance Needs of Elders) volunteers can nection Center staff members are working assist with Medicare, Medicaid, prescription remotely and providing critical services eidrug and health insurance questions. They ther by phone, online or through other techprovide information, help compare policies nology such as Zoom. and help with claims and appeals. No SHINE Patty Suarez, vice president of marketing volunteer is allowed to be a licensed insur- and communications for Senior Connection ance agent as they do not endorse any plan, Center, said, “When the COVID-19 pandemthey just give the best advice they can. ic hit, Senior Connection Center responded Senior Connection Center also offers quickly to ensure our clients remained safe health and wellness courses so the elderly while socially isolating. We sought out hardcan stay healthy and strong. Its courses cov- to-find supplies, from masks to toilet paper er a wide variety of topics, such as Tai Chi, to cleaning supplies, and shipped them to Matter of Balance, Living Healthy, Diabetes homebound seniors.” Self-Management and Living Healthy in Your Please visit www.seniorconnectioncenter. Community. One of their most important org or call 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963classes is on fall prevention because falls are 5337).
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
June 2021
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
BOLAY FRESH BOLD KITCHEN DEBUTS VIBRANT, BOLD & FRESH FLAVORS
Staff Report
Bolay Fresh Bold broccoli, herb-roasted Kitchen, the dynamic potatoes and balsamic and freshness-fueled mushrooms. Proteins build-your-own ‘bol’ concome next, with somecept from South Florida, thing for everyone, like officially debuted in the juicy steak au jus, savory Tampa Bay market with miso-glazed tofu and the opening of its Branspicy Thai shrimp for a don location this month. bit of heat, then each bol Created by Chris Ganis finished with add-ons non, son of Outback like fresh cilantro and Steakhouse Foundparmesan cheese, foler Tim Gannon, the lowed by signature saucfast-casual concept es, such as creamy garlic seeks to offer food and herb, cilantro pesto that is nutritious, and spicy Thai sauce. Bolay Fresh Bold wholesome and nourGuests can also find juicKitchen opened its es, teas, agua frescas and ishing paired with a Brandon location desserts to complement culture of inspiration earlier this month. for its guests to be their meal. the best version of “I’m extremely grateful for the opportuthemselves. nity to introduce our fresh, bold flavors to The opening of the the Tampa Bay area, starting first here in Brandon restaurant Brandon,” said Guillermo Novoa, operating will mark the 18th partner of the newest Bolay Fresh Bold location in less than Kitchen. “At Bolay, we don’t want to just be five years for the rapidly growing brand, another restaurant on the block. Our goal with the St. Petersburg location set to be is to become a hub for inspiration, personal unveiled this September. growth and development, encouraging our Chris dreamed up the concept for Bolay team and guests within the local commuwhen he came to the realization that the nity to be the best versions of themselves.” culinary scene needed a brand that beLocated at 1544 W. Brandon Blvd., the lieved excellent food fuels an amazing life- 2,600-square-foot space will allow for instyle, and that ‘fast’ and ‘casual’ can also door as well as patio seating for a total of mean extraordinary and nutritious. nearly 70 guests. Dine-in, curbside pickup Bolay boasts an offering of precom- and direct delivery will be available to best posed bols, endless opportunities for cus- suit how every guest would like to enjoy tomization across its chef-driven menu their favorite bol, along with catering and along with gluten-free, vegan and veg- family meal options. etarian options. Guests build their own To learn more about Bolay, please visit bols, starting with bases such as forbidden www.bolay.com, like it on Facebook @Eatblack rice and cilantro noodles and topped Bolay or follow @Bolay on Instagram and with veggies featuring options like ginger Twitter.
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TIPS FOR HELPING TEENS COPE WITH STRESS OF PANDEMIC By Michelle Caceres It can sometimes be difficult to talk to your teen, especially if answers to question like ‘how was your day?’ are met with such mysterious replies such as ‘fine’, ‘okay’ or ‘alright’ but learning to communicate with our children, especially from a young age, can help promote maturity, help him or her make choices that support their well-being, help them avoid situations that might be dangerous and teach them how to look after themselves mentally as well as physically. Pre-teens, tweens and teens are dealing with far greater and far more pressure than ever before. Challenging physical changes and ever more complex relationships (exacerbated by a pandemic) mean there’s never been a better time to talk, and listen what they’re thinking and feeling. Family therapist Cory Pacheck M.Ed. LMFT said that while the parental system is just one system that a child exists within (others include their biological system, family system, community system, etc), it is ultra-key because parents are the foundation of every child’s life. “In attachment theory we refer to the ideal version of that foundation as a ‘secure base’,” said Pacheck. That foundation begins with parents who have their own lives together. “Your credibility and your character matter,” he said. “You have to be trustworthy, honest, responsible, reliable and safe. You have to know what you are talking about and know how to shut up and listen A LOT and then maintain confidentiality with what your child has just shared with you.”
“Don’t invalidate their feelings by telling them they’re wrong or telling them all the reasons why they shouldn’t feel the way they do because it’s one of the most common communication errors that parents make,” he said. Kindergarten teachers tell their students to turn on their listening ears; parents need their listening ears. “Take the time to truly and deeply listen with genuine compassion and empathy, first seeking to understand and validate that person’s feelings and experience,” he said. “And resist the urge to start complaining about how terrible your own life is thinking it will somehow make your child feel better.” Be responsible, safe, strong, reliable, level-headed and trustworthy. They’ll feel good about talking with you when they need to. “Parents need be a united front and well-functioning team,” he said. “Don’t yell and scream and undermine one another.” Talk to the Student Services team (a school counselor, school nurse, school social worker) at your teen’s school if you need assistance. You can also ask your health care provider for a referral to a family therapist or licensed mental health provider who has experience and expertise in treating youth. Going through a crisis that needs immediate attention? Call The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay at 2-1-1 (24 hours a day/7 days a week).
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER OFFERS FREE ADMISSION TO MILITARY PERSONNEL AND THEIR FAMILIES THIS SUMMER The Tampa Bay History Center is a Dill Air Force Base to Teddy Roosevelt proud participant in the Blue Star Muse- and the Rough Riders in the 1890s, or the ums program. As a part of this program, Women’s Air Corps during WWII. We althe Tampa Bay History Center is offering ways want to support our military famifree admission to the nation’s active duty lies, to provide an opportunity to spend a military perday at the musonnel, inseum, and we cluding Nahope they’ll see tional Guard, some of their Reserve and own stories retheir famflected in our ilies, now exhibits.” through The Tampa Labor Day The Tampa Bay History Center will offer free admission to Bay History on Monday, military personnel and their families this summer thanks to Center is locatS e p t e m b e r its participation in the Blue Star Museum program. The free ed along Tamadmission is good now through Labor Day. 6. pa’s beautiful Blue Star Museums is a collaboration Riverwalk at 801 Water St. The museum among the National Endowment for the includes three floors of permanent and Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department temporary exhibition space focusing on of Defense and thousands of museums 12,000 years of Florida’s history and culacross the U.S. ture. Families are asked to register in adThe Tampa Bay History Center is a vance by calling the Tampa Bay History Smithsonian Affiliate museum and is acCenter at 228-0097 and speaking with a credited by the American Alliance of Muvisitor service associate to reserve tick- seums. The History Center includes the ets. Identification is required upon entry. Touchton Map Library and Florida Center Free admission is available to military ID for Cartographic Education and the Witt holders and up to five family members. Research Center. It is also home to the The military ID holder can be either an Columbia Cafe. As one of Tampa’s premier active duty service member or other de- cultural venues, the Tampa Bay History pendent family member with the appro- Center’s hands-on, interactive exhibits priate ID card. The active duty member and theaters provide an entertaining and does not have to be present for family educational experience for visitors of all members to use the program; just bring ages. your DD Form 1173 ID Card or DD Form Admission to the Tampa Bay History 1173-1 ID Card for active duty military Center also includes the exhibit Tusks to family members. Tails: A Fossil History of Florida, which is Manny Leto, director of marketing and on view now through January 11, 2022. communications for the Tampa Bay HisFor more information, visit www.tamtory Center, said, “The Bay area’s military pabayhistorycenter.org. For more inforhistory is a big part of the story we tell in mation on Blue Star Families, visit www. the History Center’s galleries, from Mac- bluestarfam.org.
Volume 20, Issue 6
TAMPA THEATRE’S SUMMER CLASSICS MOVIE SERIES IS BACK BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER This year, Tampa finally on SunTheatre will celeday, June 6 at brate 30 years of 3 p.m. presenting its popuNext up lar Summer Classics is the 1980 Movie Series. There comedy Airis no better way to plane! on Sunsee classic movies day, June 13 than the way they at 3 p.m. and should be seen- on then again on the big screen. Thursday, June Jill Witecki with 17 at 7:30 Tampa Theatre p.m. said, “Last sumOn Sunday, mer, with Tampa June 20 at Theatre closed 3 p.m., come during the panout to see the demic, the 29th 1925 silent After missing the 29th year of the Summer Classics Movie annual Summer comedy The Series due to the COVID-19 shutdown, Tampa’s maClassics series did jestic movie palace, Tampa Theatre, is bringing back a Gold Rush. not happen. This great lineup of favorite films along with a long-awaited If you miss request from fans, with more than one year, as people the Sunday showing of each film. start to return to show, see it their favorite leisure activities again, we on Thursday, June 24 at 7:30 p.m. With this hope that this year’s lineup of all-time fa- film, the audience will get to see it exactvorite Summer Classics – along with our ly how audiences saw it in 1925, as it will reduced capacity and other safety precau- be presented in its original format with live tions – may encourage our friends and fans accompaniment on the Mighty Wurlitzer to make their post-shutdown ‘First Movie Theatre Organ. Back’ a classic at Tampa Theatre.” Tampa Theatre will present Citizen Kane Something that fans have been asking on Sunday, June 27 at 3 p.m. and Thursday, for is going to be offered this year. Tampa July 1 at 7:30 p.m. The war classic Glory will Theatre is offering each Summer Classic be shown on Sunday, July 4 at 3 p.m. and more than once. Films will be shown both again on Thursday, July 8 at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday at 3p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for Summer Classics films are $10 the following Thursday. at the historic Franklin Street Box Office, First up, Tampa Theatre will present the $12 if purchased online ($7 for members). 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz. This one will Silent films are $13 at the box office or $15 be shown over a three-day period begin- online ($10 for members). For more inforning on Friday, June 4 at 7:30 p.m., again mation, please visit www.tampatheatre.org. on Saturday, June 5 at 7:30 p.m. and then This is part one of a two-part article series.
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What is black and white and fluffy all over? That would have to be a skunk. Florida is home to both the traditional striped skunk as well as the eastern spotted skunk. Striped and spotted skunks can be found throughout the state with a wide distribution range that excludes the Florida Keys. The striped skunk is physically characterized by its mostly black body that has two broad, white vertical stripes running down the length of their back and a thin, white stripe down the center of their face. In contrast, the eastern spotted skunk’s mainly black body has sporadic, smaller, white stripes on its back with an upside down white triangle typically located on the forehead. On average, the striped skunk is the size of a house cat while spotted skunks are a little bit smaller. Skunks are nocturnal mammals who forage mostly in the early evening hours throughout the night. As omnivores, their diet consists of both plants and animals. Skunks are very beneficial to farmers and gardeners because they eat large quantities of unwanted agricultural pests such as beetles and grasshoppers. They are also known to snack on rodents, reptiles, crustaceans and various vegetations. Skunks mostly live in dens in the ground and are abundant in both urban and suburban habitats. Shy by nature, these gentle,
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
solitary animals are preyed on by great horned owls and bobcats and face additional threats from people and dogs. Though infamous for their emission of
a foul odor when frightened, these interesting animals do provide ample warnings when they are in danger. When threatened, a skunk will either run away or arch their back and stomp their feet to appear frightening. Spotted skunks will also stand on their front legs in a handstand position before utilizing the last of their defense mechanisms: spraying a foul-smelling, oily musk from their rear-located scent glands. Skunks can project this scent up to 15 feet away, with the intention of distracting their predators with the pungent odor just long enough for them to escape the threat. Like other wildlife species, skunks are facing habitat loss and destruction. In fact, the eastern spotted skunk is considered a species of greatest conservation need within the state and has declining population numbers. If you happen upon a skunk, please remember that skunks are not a danger. Quietly observe from a distance and never touch, harass or feed wildlife.
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
GIBSONTON WAS A CARNIVAL TOWN: FINDING A HOME By Charles Nelson Gibsonton is a town with tation, and the a fascinating slice of histoword spread on ry unknown to many Hillsthis new, welborough County residents. coming winter Nationally famous residents home for travelincluded Al and Jeanne Toing show people maini, Casper Belsom, Dolfor much of the ly Reagan and Percilla and 1940s and 50s. Emmitt Bejano. They share Gibsonton, a unique story; these folks as a carnival were once human stars sideshow workof bizarre traveling, carnier retreat, beval sideshows popular in gan to change mid-century America. Yet, in the 1960s it was in Gibsonton where and 70s. Medthey found a permanent ical advances, home far from the curious changing public crowds. perceptions and “Percilla, the ‘Monkey Girl,’ and “Col. Casper Belsom with his pal, Al Tomaini, at Giant’s Al Tomaini stood at 6’4” laws as well as Emmitt, the ‘Alligator Skin Man.’” “Al and Jeanie Tomaini: ‘The World’s Fish Camp in Gibsonton.” Source: International IndepenSource: International Independent and was known professionthe dramatic rise Strangest Married Couple.’” Source: dent Showmen’s Association. Showmen’s Association. International Independent Showmen’s ally as ‘The Giant.’ He was of television led Association. neighalso the fire chief in Gibsonto the demise of resident for 18 bor, hired by Stiles’ wife, murdered him. the carnival sideshows. As a result, many ton and president of the town’s chamber years until his death in 1968. of commerce. Dolly Reagan, immobilized her entire life The resulting criminal case splattered all human performers who worked for shows In stark contrast to her husband, Jean- due to a birth-related condition, was once across the nation’s papers. Yet, despite the like the Gibsonton-based Royal American ie Tomaini stood a mere 30” tall. She once Gibsonton’s town librarian. She, too, trav- notoriety of this infamous case, most car- Shows saw their numbers dwindle in Gibperformed as a carnival acrobat, billing eled the carnival sideshow circuit under a nival sideshow workers, including sword sonton during the remainder of the centuherself as the ‘Half-Lady.’ Jeanie also variety of show names, including the ‘Ossi- swallowers and human pincushions like ry. By the early 2000s, many of the sideserved as one of Gibsonton’s postmistress- fied Girl’ and the ‘Half-Woman/Half-Baby.’ Melvin Burkhardt, lived everyday lives in a show performers and their families had es. Together, they toured as ‘the World’s Yet, she found comfort in her Gibsonton town that they called home. died or moved away. Eddie and Grace LeMay, carnival cookStrangest Married Couple.’ After perma- home, where she felt at ease and entirely To experience Gibsonton’s role in this nently settling in Gibsonton, they operat- welcome in the small town until she died in house operators, were the first carnival once-dynamic industry, do plan to visit workers to come to Gibsonton in 1924. the International Independent Showmen’s ed Giant’s Fish Camp and Restaurant (and the early 1990s. many other businesses). Al died in 1962, Many more carnival sideshow workers Heading south for the winter, they crossed Association on Riverview Dr. near U.S. 41. and Jeanie continued to run the restaurant found a home in this place they loving- the Alafia River, stopped to fish, had lunch Here you will find an excellent museum until she died in 1999. ly called ‘Gibtown.’ Percilla Lauther (the and planned to rest before moving on. But, highlighting the carnival industry. It’s well ‘Colonel’ Casper Belsom also toured with ‘Monkey Girl’) and Emmitt Bejano (the instead, they were attracted to the area worth a visit. the carnival circuit in the mid-20th centu- ‘Alligator Skinned Man’) were married for and decided to make it their permanent ry. As a little person, Belsom stood 36” tall 40 years and also lived in Gibsonton for home. Together, they opened Eddie’s Hut, CHARLES NELSON HOLDS A MA DEGREE IN HISTORY FROM GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY and counted Al as one of his best pals. He several years. (Emmett died in 1995, and a Gibsonton restaurant that operated for AND TAUGHT AS AN ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR AT many years. Eddie and Grace urged their served as Gibsonton’s police chief (and en- died Percilla in 2001 in Lutz.) HCC (DALE MABRY). HE IS ALSO AFFILIATED WITH TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER AS A tire police force) from 1949 until the earMore infamously, Grady Stiles, aka the fellow carnival workers to join them. Many VOLUNTEER DOCENT, RESEARCHER AND ly 1960s. He ran for the title of honorary ‘Lobster Boy’ because of his claw-like carnival workers, including a large number COMMUNITY LECTURER, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HISTORY. mayor in 1964. He was a proud Gibsonton hands, lived in Gibsonton until 1992, when a of sideshow performers, answered his invi-
June 2021
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
LOCAL RESIDENT HAS YEARS OF BROADWAY ACTING EXPERIENCE By Kathy L. Collins Kristin Carbone, a resiAmerican Stage dent of the FishHawk area, in St. Petersburg is a seasoned Broadway and Sister Berthe actor with over 25 years in The Sound of of experience. Carbone has Music at Asolo been cast in many roles, Theatre in Saraincluding Crazy Marie, the sota. Fairy Godmother in CinCarbone said, derella, a chimney sweep “Unfortunately, in Mary Poppins, Tzeitel my next Florida in Fiddler on the Roof and production, playmany more. ing the dream Recently, Carbone parrole of Margaret ticipated in To Broadway, Johnson at DraWith Love, a virtual themaworks in West atrical event produced by Palm Beach, the New Bedford Festival was cut short in Theatre. Carbone said, March of 2020.” “Virtual performance is Local resident Kristin Carbone is a seasoned Carbone added, Broadway actor who recently performed in challenging and requires a “Michael and I virtual theatre production. Carbone shares lot more technological skill are lucky. We her talents and years of experience with young than live performances do. moved here prior aspiring actors. I have had to get much to the pandemic better at recording, lighting and editing and have other sources of income.” recorded performances. Honestly, I much Carbone runs a thriving vocal studio, prefer performing live, but in the mean- teaching vocal technique and audition techwhile, virtual performances are the next nique to young singers. Carbone said, “I am best thing.” so lucky to get to share what I have learned Carbone added, “I was impressed with from 25 years in the business. I currently how well the show came together, and have about 25 students, five of whom are especially the way all the group numbers high school seniors who have been audicame together, with each performer re- tioning for some of the most competitive cording their part individually in their home university musical theater programs in the studios.” country, and who are all doing extremely Carbone moved to FishHawk in the fall of well.” 2017 with her husband and two children. Carbone said, “I loved being a New York Prior to the pandemic, she and her husband actor, but I also love my life here. We conworked at Riverside Theatre in Vero Beach sider ourselves lucky to be able to raise our in An Evening with Richard Rodgers. In the kids in such a wonderful family community Spring of 2019, she played Daisy Gamble in and still get to work as actors at theaters On A Clear Day at TheatreZone in Naples. close enough to home that we can comShe also played Helen in Fun Home at the mute.”
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Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 6
Bloomingdale /FishHawk Edition
June 2021
Page 47
NEWSOME FLAG FOOTBALL TEAM HAS DREAM SEASON; BRINGS HOME STATE TITLE
The Wolves celebrate after the victory. Photo courtesy of Sarah McKenna
The Newsome flag football team won its first state championship in school history. Photo courtesy of James Gilbert, Florida Football.
Newsome High School flag football Head Coach Justin Shive knew that his program had potential when he took over the job three years ago. All the hard work from his players and his coaching staff have culminated in a Class 2A FHSAA State Championship win for the Wolves. Quarterback and safety Devyn Silvestri took home MVP honors. “During the game, my adrenaline was running, but once we scored the last touchdown and got the extra point, I started to get super excited,” said senior pass rusher and team captain Caroline McKenna. “When they started counting the clock down from 10, I started crying because I couldn’t believe what we accomplished.” After beating Lennard to win the district championship, the Wolves went on an historic playoff run, dispatching of state powerhouse and two-time defending state champions Alonso Ravens 27-0 and taking care of business against crosstown rival
Bloomingdale 20-19 in the regional final to send them to states in Jacksonville. Newsome had never won a playoff game until this season. “In my opinion, the most memorable moment during this season, besides getting to the state championship, is the game we played against Alonso, the state champs from 2019,” said McKenna. “We were very nervous, but we went out there and played our game and ended up beating them 27-0. Once that happened and we beat the state champs, we had a lot of confidence.” The Wolves soundly defeated Navarre High School 33-18 and won a very close game in the state championship against Western High School 20-19, capping off a school-record 20-1 season and, more importantly, the state title.
“It means so much more than just words,” said senior wide receiver and captain Jade Hickey. “I have been working hard with this team for four years, and to end my senior year by winning a state title with them felt amazing, because I knew that with the hard work we were putting in that it would equal the desired outcome that we had on the field.” Shive, who has been coaching football for 21 years, was overwhelmed with excitement when the final second clicked off the clock after his team took victory formation after stopping Western on 4th and 1 on the 40-yard line. “Every coach dreams of winning a state title, but they are very hard to come by,” he said. “It was just pure excitement—nothing is better than watching the emotion of your players after they’ve won something of that magnitude. It was just an incredible
moment.” Shive said that he looked at the Alonso and Robinson flag football programs as a template for success and wanted to emulate their hard work when he took over three years ago. “The girls wanted to be good, they wanted to be one of those top programs, but they needed to learn how to put in the work,” he said. “The last three years we have committed ourselves to working hard in the offseason. They play AAU, they commit themselves to getting better, and that’s what has made us what we are today. Great teams are player-led.” The team was celebrated by their fellow classmates and administration at a clap-in as they walked through the open-air campus, followed by the drumline, as the whole school cheered them on. They were also recognized by the Newsome school board and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. They also had a chance to take pictures with the Lombardi Trophy at Robinson High School.
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Volume 20, Issue 6