Bloomingdale/FishHawk
31
June 2022
Volume 21, Issue 6
Congrats 2022 Grads! See Page 10
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CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
LOCAL STUDENTS PARTICIPATE AND WIN IN DROP SAVERS POSTER CONTEST By Kathy L. Collins
Cooper Bess from Stowers Elementary School and Miki Lin from Brandon High School won first place in their divisions in the 2022 Drop Savers poster contest. Both schools will receive bottle-filling stations.
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Hillsborough County Public Utilities and the City of Tampa Water Department invited students in the School District of Hillsborough County to participate in the Drop Savers poster contest. Kelsey Smith, senior environment scientist for Hillsborough County’s Water Conservation program, said, “This is one of Florida Section of the American Water Works Association’s most important outreach programs. The poster contest allows participants to have fun and at the same time promote the importance of water conservation in their homes.” Students in grades K-12 were encouraged to create a poster depicting a water conservation idea—in slogan form, drawing form or both—focusing on the importance of water conservation. Students had to work individually and could use crayons, paint, color pencils or markers. They were required to create an original piece of art for a panel of judges to review. Winning posters were judged based on the message, creativity and originality. Judges chose a first, second and thirdplace local winner for each division. Firstplace winners advanced to the statewide level, led and judged by the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association.
Locally, this year’s first-place winners included Cooper Bess from Stowers Elementary School and Miki Lin from Brandon High School. The winning students’ schools were awarded bottle-filling stations and reusable water bottles for the first-place winning students’ art classes. Bottle-filling stations save money because students do not need to buy single-use bottles of water, and they help the environment by eliminating plastic bottles from the water stream. Smith said, “For Hillsborough County, conserving water has many benefits for the customer, the utility and the e nv i ro n m e n t , including saving money on water and sewer bills, reducing the costs of building new water and wastewater infrastructure and preserving the environment and resources to ensure that clean water will be available for current and future generations. The poster contest is a long-range education and awareness program with the hope for creating lifelong conservers and ambassadors for conservation. It challenges students to explore water conservation concepts and to creatively express their individual ideas of the importance of water conservation.” Smith added, “Water conservation starts with you. We work closely with Tampa Bay Water Wise (TBWW), the regional water conservation program offered by Tampa Bay Water that offers rebates for homeowners and business owners who purchase and install water-saving devices.” Visit https://tampabaywaterwise.org/ en/ for more information.
Hillsborough County Public Schools recognized schools across the county for the highest team GPA’s. Bloomingdale High School Baseball received the highest GPA (3.633) award. Some of the seniors received the award and celebrated their accomplishments with Coach Kris Wilken and proudly showed their Bull Pride hand sign. The Bloomingdale baseball team won State Champions last year but fell short (3-2 score) this year to Strawberry Crest. The leadership, dedicaiton, personal and educational growth, sportsmanship come from the top down. Bloomingdale baseball players pictured (Left to Right) Tephen Montgomery, Chase Chappell, Jack Owens, Drake Harman and Makye Hayes. Newsome High School - Softball (3.868) and Armwood High School - Boys Tennis (3.917) were also recognized.
ACE GOLF’S RIVERVIEW EXPANSION BEGAN 20 YEARS AGO
By Taylor Wells
Recently, the owners received an offer from a builder that could potentially lead to Ace Golf in Riverview closing, and rezoning efforts began. “Some people started posting ‘Oh, they’re closed,’ or ‘They’re closing this month,’ and I had no idea where people got this information, but it was completely wrong. There will
Ace Golf in Riverview has been in business for nearly 20 years.
Twenty years ago, the Osprey Observer published a front-page story in our June 2002 FishHawk edition about Ace Golf’s owners, husband and wife Bill Place and Su Lee, expanding onto Boyette Road in Riverview. The story reported that the “plan would bring a driving range, batting cages, mini golf and even a picnic barn for parties to an 18-acre parcel” at the location, and Ace Golf Range in Riverview has grown much throughout the years. And ever since the Brandon location closed, Ace Golf in Riverview has gotten busier. This increase in business has been a continuing trend, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the golf range was one of the few places where people could feel safe while outside having fun. Along with still hosting parties in the barn, it’s become more active in lessons and camps, like junior golf camps every summer, and it offers kids a Free Bucket or Mini Golf program throughout the summer. Daycare groups are known for visiting often in the summer and during the holidays. Plus, there are adult group classes for learning golf, a driving range, batting cages, mini golf and a pro shop. Not only is there much fun to be had, but Ace Golf in Riverview also prides itself on being a very clean and well-maintained facility. As proof of that, it has won the Golf Range Association of America’s award for Top 50 Stand-Alone Facilities every year since opening, which Place credits partly to having things that are nicer than you’d usually find at other golf ranges, like rolling canopies and over 1 acre of Celebration Bermuda grass.
An Osprey Observer newspaper from 20 years ago featuring a story about Ace Golf expanding onto Boyette Road in Riverview.
be more than adequate notice if that does come about,” said Place, who added that Ace Golf will continue operating normally as well as keep upgrading and improving things. Rezoning has been delayed, and though it might continue later, the location isn’t closing for at least a year. In fact, it’s possible that Ace Golf will remain open for years to Continued on page 19.
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Page 2
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6
June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
20 YEARS LATER, PRINCIPAL TRICIA SIMONSEN CONTINUES PROVIDING EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE By Taylor Wells
20 years ago, Tricia Simonsen was featured in a story in the Osprey Observer’s June 2002 FishHawk edition.
One page three of the Osprey Observer’s June 2002 edition, we published a story featuring Tricia Simonsen, who had nominated Bevis Elementary School tutor and volunteer Vince Guarcello for the David B. Frye Award, which he won. At the time, Simonsen had been Bevis Elementary’s assistant principal. Throughout the next 20 years, she’s had a wonderful career as a principal. For nine years, she was the principal at Bevis, then she became principal of Valrico Elementary School, where she has been for another nine years so far, and Simonsen is glad for it. “I’ve continued to have a rewarding career thanks to the super supportive families, outstanding faculty and staff and hardworking students. COVID presented many challenges, but our Valrico team has persevered and never lost sight of fostering a positive school environment and high expectations for academic success,” she said. No day is the same; however, Simonsen starts and ends her day greeting students and families in the car line daily. She also
enjoys spending time in the classrooms, celebrating success with students and staff, problem-solving and reflecting on professional goals. “My most rewarding moments are when I am able to recognize students for doing great things,” she said, “whether it is demonstrating an outstanding character trait or chatting with youngsters about academic success, individual growth gains and content mastery.” She primarily wants to promote an intrinsic love for learning in students and foster a collaborative, energizing environment in which staff members thrive. “I love being a principal! There’s no greater reward than knowing you can have such a positive impact on the lives of students, staff and families in a school community,” Simonsen said. She’s done so well as to earn multiple awards from the PTA, particularly recognizing her for promoting the importance of family involvement. She is happy to personally be part of a community where education is truly valued, families are involved in the learning environment and there are many extracurricular activities to develop student talents. She is also proud that her two sons, now young adults with thriving careers, went through the Hillsborough County school system and even attended Bevis while she was its principal. “Thank you for your continued support of our school and the trust that you have,” Simonsen said to the community.
Page 3
COUNTY PLANS $20 MILLION FOR SIDEWALK REPAIRS
Staff Report
The homeowner has submitted several requests over the past 8 years to repair the sidewalk in front of his home. The resident has witnessed kids getting injured while riding scooter or bikes. The sidewalk continues to grow worse each year.
If you are struggling with broken sidewalks in your community, help could be on the way. The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) voted recently to use $20 million in American Rescue Plan funds to repair broken sidewalks throughout the county. According to Hillsborough County, the Public Works Department maintains more than 3,200 miles of sidewalks with a budget of only about $550,000 a year to perform repairs. The $20 million approved by the BOCC dramatically increases the number of neighborhoods Hillsborough can improve by repairing and replacing broken sidewalks. Sidewalks often are damaged over the years by tree roots or vehicles, and broken sidewalks can discourage residents from using them. Repairing sidewalks provides many benefits, including improved safety, greater mobility and healthier communities. By further separating people from traffic, sidewalks also reduce pedestrian injuries, supporting Vision Zero goals. The Hillsborough County American Rescue
Plan Investment Plan, approved by the Board of County Commissioners on September 1, 2021, provides a framework for investing the $285 million in federal Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds in the community. The funding will support vital projects throughout the county related to water, sewer and broadband infrastructure; public health response; negative economic impacts; and revenue replacement for certain government services. Projects funded by Hillsborough County must meet the guidelines established by the federal government while addressing the county’s unique community needs and reflecting the BOCC’s collective values in addressing residents’ needs. The sidewalk repairs are one of the programs funded under this plan by the BOCC. If there is a sidewalk in your neighborhood that needs repairing, you can visit https://service.hillsboroughcounty.org/311/ roads-sidewalks/ to report it. The report will ask for the location of the issue and a contact for follow-up questions. Additionally, it is possible to call the Hillsborough County Public Works Department Customer Service Center at 813-635-5400 to report. For more information, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
ALL THE INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW TO GET REGISTERED TO VOTE By Kathy L. Collins This summer, there will address or signature. be important elections One change that is appliheld in Hillsborough Councable relates to requesting a ty. If you want to exercise Vote By Mail ballot. Voters your right to vote in the now need to provide their drivprimary election, which is er license number or the last set for Tuesday, August 23 four digits of their social secu(early voting will be held rity number, whichever can be Monday, August 8 through verified in their voter record. Sunday, August 21), you The easiest way to make the must be registered to vote request is online at votehillsby Monday, July 25. This is borough.gov/votebymail or by also the deadline to change calling 612-4180. All Vote By your address or change Craig Latimer, the supervisor Mail requests will expire after your party affiliation. the 2022 general election and of elections for Hillsborough Florida is a closed prineed to be resubmitted after County, conducted a stumary state, which means dent-designed “I Voted” sticker each general election. that you must be regis- competition. Iliana Otero, a In 2020, a U.S. census was tered with a political par- senior at Sumner High School, conducted (one is conducted was this year’s winner. Her ty to vote in that party’s every 10 years). the Hillsborsticker will be handed out primary races. However, ough County Board of County during early voting. everyone can vote in this Commissioners, the Hillsborelection, regardless of their affiliation, be- ough County School Board and the Florida cause there will be nonpartisan races for Legislature redraw district boundaries to reschool board and judges and nonpartisan flect changes in population. After maps are issues on the primary ballot. approved, precinct boundaries are adjusted. A primary election is used to nominate a The voter registration database is updated candidate to move on to the general elec- as well. Even though only some voters will tion. The primary also narrows down the have a change in their districts or precinct, number of candidates in nonpartisan races every voter will receive a new voter inforand may include amendments or referenda. mation card. There has been a lot of reporting about Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer said, election law changes made. Readers should “If you are not registered to vote, do not put know that the rules around registering to that off. Get registered today so that you are vote have not changed. Voters can visit vote- ready. To make sure your voter information hillsborough.gov or registertovoteflorida. is current, look it up at votehillsborough.gov/ gov to register online, or they can visit any voterlookup.” supervisor of election office to fill out an apLatimer added, “Unfortunately, we are plication. Voter registration applications can seeing a lot of misinformation about elecalso be found at public libraries. The voter tions. If you have questions, get your inforregistration application is also used by regis- mation from a trusted source—your electered voters who need to update their name, tions office.”
Volume 21, Issue 6
BLOOD DRIVE TO BE HELD AT BEVIS ELEMENTARY IN HONOR OF 3-YEAR-OLD ZAYA ZITKO
By Taylor Wells
start fostering, and it turned out that the first baby we fostered had siblings who were also related to those with good friends of ours. From there, we just kept expanding the family.” In addition to the blood drive, Zaya has also been getting physical therapy for his cerebral palsy and help with his other health conditions. “We’ll obviously keep working with him and keep praying he walks Parker Isaiah (Zaya) Zitko has a few health conditions, but he’s a happy kid whose future is looking bright.
FishHawk residents Derek and Dawn Zitko have a 3-year-old son named Parker, known to most as “Zaya”, who has been an inspiration to many in the community. Zaya was born at 30 weeks with cerebral palsy, brain bleeds and several gastrointestinal issues. Due to his health conditions, he required a number of blood transfusions during Parker Isaiah Zitko being held by his mother, Dawn Zitko, the first weeks of his life. In with his father, Derek Zitko (left of them in the center), and order to help people like Zaya, surrounded by his siblings. John-Michael Elms, a neighbor of the Zitko family, became an advocate one day, but other than that, he’s pretty for blood donations and an organizer of healthy,” said Derek. He also said that, many blood drives, and he is setting one though Zaya should not need more blood up at Bevis Elementary in honor of Zaya. transfusions, so many others are in need. Those wanting to honor Zaya and give “We’ve just been very blessed, and we just had the opportunity to fight for blood can find the blood drive at Bevis kids. I was in the military 21 years, and Elementary School, located at 5720 Oswe bounced around the world and just prey Ridge Dr. in Lithia, on Saturday, June always tried to serve and help people,” 25 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. They will greatly said Derek. “So, when we finally got set- appreciate help with getting blood donatled in here, we found it in our hearts to tions.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2022
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
WATER BILLING SYSTEM UPGRADE AIMS TO ENHANCE DATA SECURITY, IMPROVE SERVICE By Linda Chion Starting this simple ones, or use month, water, the same password wastewater and at many different reclaimed water sites.” customers of HillTo hammer home sborough County the need for onWater Resourcline security, World es are required Password Day was to reregister to on May 5 and Napay their bills eitional Computer ther online or via Security Day is on phone. Wednesday, NovemAt issue is the ber 30. Both days utility bill system drive home the mesupgrade for online sage that cyberseand phone pay- Hillsborough County Water Resources provides curity and identity ments that went drinking water and wastewater treatment ser- theft affects everyinto effect April vices to customers in unincorporated Hillsbor- thing from where ough County. 28. Customers we bank to how we using their old logins and passwords will spend our money to how we pay our bills. find they no longer work under the new It’s becoming standard now for finansystem, which is designed to enhance cial institutions, applications and social data security and improve service. media, shopping and billing sites to reThe change requires all customers quire multifactor verification, which typto reregister their accounts, which al- ically involves something known (such as lows for “multifactor authentication,” a password or PIN number), something in also known as “two-factor notification,” one’s possession (such as a smartphone, which is among the top must-do’s for to which an authentication code is sent) data security, according to cybersecuri- and something unique to the individual ty officials engaged in the fight against (such as a fingerprint or facial recogniidentity theft. tion). Traditionally, a username and passTo alert customers of the changes to word are used to authenticate a login, its billing system, Hillsborough County which tells a service provider that a per- Water Resources sent postcards to cusson is indeed the person they claim to be. tomers in April and noted the upgrade as “Unfortunately, that’s not a very good well on monthly bill statements. The utiliway to do it,” according to a Microsoft ty provides drinking water and wastewareport, which notes usernames are of- ter treatment services to unincorporated ten too easy to determine, especially as Hillsborough County. “sometimes they’re just your email adFor more information, visit www.hcfldress.” Moreover, “since passwords can gov.net/water. For technical assistance, be hard to remember, people tend to pick call 813-276-2700.
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Volume 21, Issue 6
FINANCIAL FOCUS
WHAT INVESTORS CAN – AND CAN’T – CONTROL As an investor, you can easily feel frustrated to see short-term drops in your investment statements. But while you cannot control the market, you may find it helpful to review the factors you can control. Many forces affect the financial markets, including geopolitical events, corporate profits and interest rate movements – forces beyond the control of most individual investors. In any case, it’s important to focus on the things you can control, such as these: • Your ability to define your goals – One area in which you have total control is your ability to define your goals. Like most people, you probably have shortterm goals – such as saving for a new car or a dream vacation – and long-term ones, such as a comfortable retirement. Once you identify your goals and estimate how much they will cost, you can create an investment strategy to help achieve them. Over time, some of your personal circumstances will likely change, so you’ll want to review your time horizon and risk tolerance on a regular basis, adjusting your strategy when appropriate. And the same is true for your goals – they may evolve over time, requiring new responses from you in how you invest. • Your response to market downturns – When the market drops and the value of your investments declines, you might be tempted to take immediate action in an effort to stop the losses. This is understandable – after all, your investment results can have a big impact on your future. However, acting hastily could work against you – for example, you could sell investments that still have solid fundamentals and are still appropriate for your needs. If you can avoid decisions based on short-term events, you may help yourself in the long run.
• Your commitment to investing – The financial markets are almost always in flux, and their movements are hard to predict. If you can continue investing in all markets – good, bad or sideways – you will likely make much better progress toward your goals than if you periodically were to take a “time out.” Many people head to the investment sidelines when the market tumbles, only to miss out on the beginnings of the next rally. And by steadily investing, you will increase the number of shares you own in your investments – and the larger your ownership stake, the greater your opportunities for building wealth. • Your portfolio’s level of diversification – While diversification itself can’t guarantee profits or protect against all losses, it can help greatly reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio. Just how you diversify your investments depends on several factors, but the general principle of maintaining a diversified portfolio should govern your approach to investing. It’s a good idea to periodically review your portfolio to ensure it’s still properly diversified. The world will always be filled with unpredictable, uncontrollable events, and many of them will affect the financial markets to one degree or another. But within your own investment world, you always have a great deal of control – and with it, you have the power to keep moving toward all your important financial objectives. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC
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June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 7
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY IS DISTRIBUTING
MOSQUITO-EATING FISH
By Brad Stager troughs. No chemicals or care of the fish is required, beyond protecting them from chemical contamination that can occur from property maintenance. The dates for upcoming mosquitofish distribution events are as follows: Hillsborough County Mosquito Management • June 4 - FishHawk Services will host mosquito-eating fish giveaways featuring the Mosquito Ninja and Gambuzi-San Public Educa- Sports Complex at 16000 tion Trailer at various locations throughout the summer. Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia • July 9 - Providence Skate As spring eases into summer with lonPark at 5720 Providence Rd. in Riverview ger and hotter days, mosquitoes, a no• August 6 Mike E. Sansone Commutable element of Florida’s warm season, nity Park at 1702 N. Park Rd. in Plant City reappear in abundance. According to the Hillsborough County Dealing with mosquitoes, sometimes large swarms of them, is a part of daily website, more than 40 species of mosliving during the summer, and Hillsbor- quitoes inhabit the local community. ough County is providing residents with Ron Montgomery oversees Hillsborough an effective way to do so by distributing County’s mosquito control efforts, and he fish that feed on the pestilential insects. said spraying insecticide has limited, speThe fish are being handed out at events cific uses and that dealing with a growing throughout the county, with some hap- mosquito population by denying them a pening in the Osprey Observer readership safe habitat of standing water—whetharea from 8 a.m.-12 Noon on three Satur- er intentional or from neglect, such as having containers and tires that collect days during the summer. The fish, natural predators to mosqui- water on a property—is the first line of toes, are free, but photographic identifi- defense. “Unfortunately, the public today thinks cation that shows Hillsborough County that the way to rid yourself of a mosquiresidency is required. The fish will be disto, or a mosquito problem, or a mosquito tributed while supplies last. issue or a mosquito threat, is to spray,” Mosquito larvae are the favorite food of Montgomery commented while adthe fish, according to Hillsborough Coundressing local code enforcement officers ty, and the idea is to eliminate the insects during a training session that was recordbefore they mature and target people and ed and posted to the Hillsborough County animals for their own sustenance. YouTube channel. The idea is to place the fish where For more information, you can contact water is intentionally collected or is left Hillsborough County Mosquito Control at standing, such as rain collection barrels, 813-635-5400. retention ponds and fishponds or horse
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6
TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART PRESENTS FIRST ANNUAL JUNETEENTH CULTURAL CELEBRATION
Staff Report
On Sunday, June 19, the Tampa Museum of Art (TMA) will hold its first annual Juneteenth Cultural Celebration.
Commemorate Juneteenth with an engaging, family-friendly experience at the Tampa Museum of Art’s (TMA) first annual Juneteenth Cultural Celebration. On Sunday, June 19 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., prepare for a lively community celebration of this holiday, also known as Freedom Day, with free museum admission, art-making activities, live music and performances, family portraits, amazing food trucks and more. The event lineup also includes programs by community partners Moffitt Cancer Center, its George Edgecomb Society and HORUS Construction Services, promoting social and health equity for all community members. CAN Community Health will provide free health screenings on site throughout the day. Visitors will also experience a free sampling of arts and health programs the Tampa Museum of Art provides for families and various special needs groups. Kessanda Abel, community engagement manager at the Tampa Museum of Art,
said, “Juneteenth at TMA is an excellent way to see the amazing power that art has to bring the community together, especially when all members of the community are welcome and represented in a place that celebrates the uniqueness of everybody.” Cathy Grant, vice president and chief diversity equity and inclusion officer at Moffit Cancer Center and co-chair of the governance committee at the Tampa Museum of Art, said, “This celebration is a great example of organizations with a shared commitment to equity working together to support programs like the Juneteenth Cultural Celebration and making educational opportunities accessible to everyone. It’s important for us to extend the opportunity for young people and community members to be able to walk through the doors with their personal experiences, see themselves represented and know that this is a place where they are welcomed, whether they are experiencing the exhibits at the Tampa Museum of Art or receiving care at the Moffitt Cancer Center.” The first annual Juneteenth Cultural Celebration is possible thanks to passionate community members and partner organizations that support the black and African American community in the Tampa Bay area and share the museum’s objectives to create programs that facilitate equal access to art education opportunities for all community members. Register for free admission to the Juneteenth Cultural Celebration at https:// tampamuseum.org/Juneteenth. Located at 120 W. Gasparilla Plz. in Tampa, the Tampa Museum of Art is open seven days a week, Monday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and on Thursday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
SENIOR HELPERS OFFERS HIGH-QUALITY IN-HOME CARE By Kathy L. Collins If you are in need Senior Helpers will of in-home senior offer a sponsored care, look no furwebinar called Dether than Senior mentia Care: How to Helpers (Riverview). Effectively Respond Senior Helpers ofto Challenging Statefers tailored home ments. The webinar care services which is led by Teepa Snow, range from daily as- Senior Helpers Riverview offers high-quality a renowned authority in-home senior care at an affordable price. It sistance to in depth on aging and demenoffers tailored home care services, including specialized care for companion care for seniors who need daily as- tia. The webinar will ailments such as sistance and in-depth specialized care for those be held on WednesAlzheimer’s, demen- with chronic conditions, such as Alzheimer’s day, June 22 from and dementia. tia, Parkinson’s and 2-3 p.m. other chronic diseases. Senior Helpers Riverview has been Senior Helpers Riverview is owned and awarded Great Place to Work for the last operated by senior care specialist Scott three years. In addition, it is accredited by Fox. According to Fox, who has owned Se- The Joint Commission. nior Helpers for 14 years, “Senior Helpers Fox brings a lifetime of experience to offers services from a variety of profes- owning and operating Senior Helpers. He sionals including companions, home health has worked in the health care industry. In aides and certified nurse assistants. We addition, he explained, “My grandfather provide everything from sitting with your died from the stress of taking care of my loved one to bathing, dressing and 24-hour grandmother with brain cancer. My family care.” became caregivers and hired a company like Fox employed 150 area residents. Fox Senior Helpers with caregivers to help. My said, “Senior Helpers is an industry lead- other grandmother suffered from demener for in-home care or whatever you call tia/Alzheimer’s. My mission is to change the home. We offer award-winning specialty misinformation and help people understand programs in dementia/Alzheimer’s called it is all about the approach for proper care.” Senior Gems™. We offer senior helpers free The primary goal of Senior Helpers Rivertools and education for caregivers upon re- view is to help provide a high quality of life quest. We also have a data-driven tool pro- for its clients and their families by deliverfiles that help people age in place with 20 ing customized, dependable and affordable years of experience of data-driven results.” care. Senior Helpers is always looking to hire For more information, please visit www. good people. It will train individuals to get seniorhelpers.com/fl/riverview or call 813into the industry. 677-1400.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2022
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NEW PRINCIPALS AMONG 32 PERSONNEL CHANGES APPROVED BY HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS By Linda Chion New principals at eight Southeastern Hillsborough County public schools are among the 32 administrative appointments and transfers approved by school board members at their May 10 meeting. Countywide, the moves include new principals and assistant principals at 14 elementary schools, six middle schools, three K-8 schools and three high schools. Also on tap is a new principal for Aparicio-Levy Technical College in Tampa and new hires and transfers to fill four district administration positions. The effective date for all appointments and transfers was May 30. Students going back to school on Wednesday, August 10 in Southeastern Hillsborough County will see new principals at Dawson, Doby, Mintz, Schmidt, Seffner and Stowers elementary schools and at Barrington and Eisenhower middle schools. “I want to recognize new journeys for a bunch of our new leaders who have been remarkable over the past two years,” said Addison Davis, superintendent of schools since 2020, in his remarks at the May 10 school board meeting. “It really takes a lot nowadays to lead a school and to lead a cohort of teachers who truly do some special things for children.” Starting with area elementary schools, Jesha Womack, assistant principal at Dawson in Riverview, has been promoted to lead the school as principal. Bradley Fuller, assistant principal at Corr in Gibsonton, is the new principal at Doby in Apollo Beach. Kevin Martin, principal at Lithia Springs in Valrico, is the new principal at Mintz in Brandon. Maryann Lippek, principal at Tampa Palms in Tampa, is the new principal at Schmidt
Photo courtesy of the Hillsborough County School District.
The new principals for area schools are (from left to right, top to bottom row) Melanie Cochrane, Stowers Elementary; Andrea Cummings, Barrington Middle; Nathaniel Francis, Eisenhower Middle; Bradley Fuller, Apollo Beach Elementary; Maryann Lippek, Schmidt Elementary; Kevin Martin, Mintz Elementary; Renel Mathurin, Seffner Elementary; and Jesha Womack, Dawson Elementary.
in Brandon. Renal Mathurin, principal at Shaw in Tampa, is the new principal at Seffner Elementary in Seffner. And Melanie Cochrane, principal of McDonald in Seffner, is the new principal at Stowers in Lithia. Catherine ‘Missy’ Lennard has been principal at Stowers since its opening in 2009. Earlier this year, she was named the inaugural principal of Dorothy C. York Innovation Academy for grades K-8, which is nearing construction completion
Hours: Mon-Thurs 9-5 | Friday 9-12
in Apollo Beach. Set to join her are Dustin Robinson, assistant principal at Stowers, and Jeshilma Villafane, assistant principal at Eisenhower, who leave their respective jobs to take on the same roles at York. As for area middle schools, Andrea Cummings leaves her job as assistant principal at East Bay High School to become principal at Barrington in Lithia. Nathaniel Francis, assistant principal at Bloomingdale High School in Valrico, is
the new principal at Eisenhower in Gibsonton. Three high schools countywide are getting new assistant principals, including Sumner in Riverview, where Allison Wright has been named assistant principal for student affairs. She leaves her job as dean of students at Parrish Community High School in Parrish. The list of transfers and appointments includes as well Harriett Close, resource teacher at Durant High in Plant City, set to become assistant principal for student affairs at Middleton High School; Sandra Misciasci, reading coach at Newsome High in Lithia, set to become Hillsborough’s coordinator for partnership, engagement, philanthropy and outreach; and Jesse Salters, principal at Blake High School in Tampa, set to become the new principal at Aparicio-Levy Technical College. Also set for district jobs are Johan von Ancken, principal of Dowdell Middle School in Tampa, now the newly named executive director of high schools. The new job for Kelly King, principal at Hillsborough High, is in human resources as executive officer of professional standards. Formerly a senior transportation planner in Polk County’s government, Glorimar Belangia has been hired as manager of planning and siting for the Hillsborough County School District’s office of operations. Meanwhile, Timothy Delgado, assistant principal at Yates Elementary in Brandon, leaves for his principal job at Robinson Elementary in Tampa. For all and upcoming Hillsborough County appointments and transfers, visit www.hillsboroughschools.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6
CONGRATULATIONS TO AREA HIGH SCHOOL
VALEDICTORIANS & SALUTATORIANS
Compiled by Taylor Wells
Valedictorian Emily Moore-Shrieves Bloomingdale Senior High School GPA 8.858 Plans to attend Harvard University
Salutatorian Samuel Sebastian Bloomingdale Senior High School GPA 8.199 Plans to attend University of Florida
Valedictorian Rehan Shah IB at Strawberry Crest High School GPA 9.69 Plans to attend University of Florida
Salutatorian Nishant Nagururu IB at Strawberry Crest High School GPA 8.48 Plans to attend University of Florida
Valedictorian McKinley Baker Strawberry Crest High School GPA 7.30 Plans to attend UCF
Salutatorian Selena Jose-Reyes Strawberry Crest High School GPA 7.18 Plans to attend HCC
Valedictorian Elizabeth Riotto Bell Creek Academy GPA 8.08 Plans to attend University of Florida
Salutatorian Jailen Marcelin Bell Creek Academy GPA 7.40 Plans to attend Howard University
Valedictorian Ashley Irovando Durant High School GPA of 9.5896 Plans to attend UCF
Salutatorian Alexandra Sigl Durant High School GPA 8.743 Plans to attend University of Florida
Valedictorian Anika Shah Newsome High School GPA 9.44 Plans to attend Vanderbilt University
Salutatorian Cody Basquill Newsome High School GPA 8.817 Plans to attend Florida State University
June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 11
RANDALL’S DAVIS NAMED RETIRING AFTER 15 YEARS AT ATHLETE OF YEAR FOR DISTRICT FISHHAWK CREEK ELEMENTARY By Kate Quesada By Kathi Hayes FishHawk resident 4x100m relay and Luke Davis was honqualified for districts. ored last month with Luke also plays basan impressive award. ketball, tennis, baseLuke, a student ball and soccer outat Randall Middle side of school and in School, was named his spare time he likes the school’s 2021to go golfing, bowling, 22 scholar-athlete playing volleyball with of year at a district friends and shooting banquet held at Jefbasketball hoops in ferson High School in Randall Middle School eighth grade student the driveway with Tampa. neighbors. Luke Davis was recently recognized as the According to school’s 2021-22 scholar-athlete of year at a “Luke was also Luke’s mother, Susan recognized for volundistrict banquet. Davis, Luke was choteering with Give Kids sen for the award by The World, a nonprofit Randall’s PE teacher, organization that gives coach Oglesby. joy to kids with critical “He was honored illnesses, and the Chilnot only for his scholdren’s Dream Fund, a ar athlete abilities wish-granting organibut also for his kindzation that offers wishness and other aces to ill children,” said colades,” said Susan. Susan. “These organi“Luke maintained a zations are close to our 3.7 GPA while takhearts as Luke’s sister, ing three high school Grace, received a wish credit classes, is a from the Children’s member of NJHS, president of the Kind- Dream Fund in 2019.” ness Club, homeroom representative and Luke and his family are military, stationed received student of the month each year of at MacDill Air Force Base, and his parents school.” are also respite foster parents who adopted In addition, Luke was a team member of a little boy a few years ago. According to Sufour of the five Randall sports and served as san, Luke is active in the Bell Shoals Church captain or co-captain on some. He played on youth group and serves in the preschool the Randall’s men’s basketball team, where VBS sports activity ministry. he played center and was a leading rebound“We are grateful to Luke’s Randall Mider. He played middle front for the men’s vol- dle School coaches for seeing his kindness leyball team and was a leading scorer. He towards others, his outstanding grades and played punter, rusher and linebacker for athletic performances,” said Susan. “We the men’s flag football team. In track and praise Jesus for this award. Luke is very field, he participated in shot put, long jump, humble and quiet.”
noticed,” said former teacher Sonja Shear. “One of the most exciting things that I look forward to is having our seniors come back to walk the halls of FishHawk Creek Elementary wearing their cap and gown. I had the opportunity to work with these students and excited to see them now as seniors and to hear about their future endeavors,” said Pizzichetti. She has been such a gift not only to the school but also to the community. “Ms. Pizzichetti would buy cookies from me during our fundraiser, bake them and give them to me all wrapped up. She continued to bake cookies for me over the years, which made me feel special,” said former student Makye Hayes. “She treats every Carmela Pizzichetti sits single child with love wearing the 5th grade shirt the and respect. Recentseniors wore seven years ago ly, when my son was during this year’s clapout. killed, she did everyFifteen years ago, thing in her power to Carmela Pizzichetti help his younger sibstepped foot into Fishlings acclimate to their Hawk Creek Elementary new normal without (FHCE) as its school him. She checked on counselor and made them every day and a difference. She inthey knew they were troduced herself to in a safe place because incoming students as of her. She had bears ‘Pizza-spaghetti’ to made for them out of help them learn her Bradley’s T-shirts. She name. still checks on us even Pizzichetti helped though we have moved students to see Fishout of the area,” said Hawk Creek’s vision Carmela Pizzichetti with past FHCE Meagan Hulett. to soar to the highest admin and past Principal Pamela Bush. Pizzichetti has 10 level of academic achievement and cit- years with middle and high schools in izenship. “I am ever so grateful to have Hillsborough County under the Florida been included in the students and fam- Department of Juvenile Justice and the ilies’ lives. It has been a true learning Florida Department of Education. She experience,” said Pizzichetti. She sup- has always advocated for every student. ported PTA, administrative, teaching and “I am looking forward to spending time instructional staff, as well as the front with family, friends, traveling a bit, hitting office, custodial and café, but more im- the local beaches and waking up without portantly, they supported her too. an alarm clock,” said Pizzichetti. She is “Ms. Pizzichetti inspires the students also excited to spend more time with her to be the best version of themselves and nephew and going to see the drum circles encourages them along the way and will at the beaches. certainly be missed,” said teacher Diahn “Make the rest of your life the best of Brauss. your life,” said former teacher Jen Fowke. “Ms. ‘Pizza-getti’s’ career was filled The families and community will miss Pizwith creating special relationships with zichetti, but they are excited for her new all her students, making each one feel chapter and wish her well. special. Always taking the time to reach For more information about FishHawk out and check on her colleagues too. Her Creek Elementary, visit www.hillsbordedication and friendships did not go un- oughschools.org/fishhawkcreek.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FISHHAWK COUPLE SHARE THE GIFT OF LIGHT By Michelle Caceres When FishHawk esses, salespeople, residents and retirees employees at local Andy and Linda Dedoctors’ offices and Gagne received a gift anyone else who five years ago, they looks like they need a didn’t know it would gift. When bestowing inspire them to share the light, they always that gift with thousay “God bless you” sands of people. so they know the The gift giver was original gift giver. Sun City Center res“People are surident Sam Pantano, prised because and the gift was a they’ve never seen a unique LED night- FishHawk residents Andy and Linda De- night-light like these light, which he gave Gagne have given away more than 2,000 and it puts a smile on handmade night-lights to hardworking them at a luncheon. their face,” said Andy. members of the community. “I was really im“It makes us feel pressed with its good and it makes unique design,” said the person receiving Andy. it feel good.” Pantano, who On a recent flight was in his 80s at out of Tampa, they the time and has handed over a nightpassed away, delight to the employsigned the nightee helping them light himself, uticheck in, who was lizing an LED base, working hard on a safety pins, beads, holiday. She showed wire and glue. Beit off to her fellow fore he died, he taught his friend, Drew coworkers so each of them received one Godmar, how to make them, then she as well. taught Andy and Linda. “That happens a lot,” said Linda. “Sam was a religious man, and we This month while eating at Cappy’s in loved the idea of sharing light with oth- Bloomingdale, the couple gave their servers, so we decided to continue his legacy,” er a night-light. She was happy to receive said Linda. it and proudly showed it off to the kitchThe night-lights cost a few dollars en staff. One grateful staff member came each to make. They purchase the beads to their table and recollected that they’d and safety pins from Amazon and buy given her one at her last job. the bases from Walmart. Inflation hasn’t With the demand for night-lights so spared the night-light materials; the cost strong, you’d think the retirees would of each base recently increased from want to set up shop at local craft fairs. $1.50 to $2. “Nope, we don’t want to sell them,” they The couple has made more than 2,000 said. “Our reward is the joy we get from night-lights, giving them to servers, host- giving them away.”
Volume 21, Issue 6
SIGN UP NOW FOR FLIGHT TO HONOR APRIL 2023 MISSION
By Brad Stager
Flight to Honor Polk missions fly groups of veterans to Washington D.C. for a day of touring memorials and monuments dedicated to their service.
With the successful completion of Flight to Honor Polk Mission 7, Polk County Veteran Council is wasting no time to prepare for next year’s mission to fly local military veterans to Washington D.C. to visit memorials honoring the service and sacrifices of them and their comrades. The most recent flight to commemorate the service of participating veterans from World War II as well as the Korean and Vietnam wars was successfully flown on April 26 and event organizers are already planning Mission 8 for April 2023. The Flight to Honor Polk missions, which began in 2015, take off early in the morning from Lakeland Linder International Airport on a chartered flight and return on the night of that mission’s date. Any veteran can apply to participate and there is no cost for them to do so. Applications for next year’s mission are now being accepted from veterans and guardians to accompany them. There is no charge for participating veterans, with priority for the flights given to those dealing with severe medical conditions first, followed by veterans who served in the Second World, Korean and Vietnam wars.
Veterans are accompanied during the day by designated guardians who volunteer to serve on the missions. Their purpose is to assist their veterans with the travel and memorial sightseeing activities. If a guardian applicant is chosen to participate, a $500 donation to defray the cost of the mission will be requested. Guardians are assigned to a veteran in the order that applications are received. Roxie Hund, one of the mission organizers, said the Polk County-based flight missions are a local community effort to recognize and honor veterans. “We are independent,” she wrote in an email. “We are totally funded and managed by donations and volunteers from the Central Florida community. Any veteran can apply to participate in a Flight to Honor Polk Mission.” The Flight to Honor Polk missions are among many activities of the Polk County Veterans Council, which has been supporting veterans since 2003. Applications for veterans and guardians can be downloaded at www.polkveteranscouncil.com and donations can be sent to Flight to Honor, P.O. Box 3911, Lakeland, FL 33802. You can also learn more about the missions by visiting Flight to Honor on Facebook.
June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
MOTION CHIROTHERAPY ADDS ASSESSMENT TOOL TO HELP IDENTIFY CONCUSSIONS By Sharon Still At Motion ChiroThermonitor recovery by imapy, the goal is to help plementing a detailed athletes avoid injury while return to school and play alleviating pain, increasplan specific to that stuing performance and imdent-athlete.” proving biometrics. A reIn business for four cent partnership with EQ years, Motion ChiroTherActive now adds the benapy offers chiropractic efit of being able to concare, performance care tinually monitor cognitive for athletes and concusfunction over time to sion management. The compare with a baseline practice treats an extento easily identify when a sive list of issues, includpatient has experienced a ing arthritis, headaches, concussion. sciatica pain, tennis elbow, Dr. Robert Lutz, owner of “We are so excited to Motion ChiroTherapy, recently shin splints and carpal partner with EQ Active,” partnered with EQ Active, an tunnel syndrome. Through announced owner Dr. Rob- assessment tool that uses inter- continuing education, ert Lutz. EQ Active is a active games to measure brain physicians are trained in neurological assessment function over time to help in techniques used by many tool that involves playing the treatment of concussions. professional athletes and seven interactive games which assess teams to keep themselves performing at visual function, cognitive function and their highest ability safely. This approach balance. The data obtained is used to focuses on identifying the underlying compile real-time tracking of cognitive cause of the issue, treating the problem functioning. and working with the patient to avoid reDr. Lutz commented, “It allows us to occurrence. see how your brain works almost like a Do not miss Motion ChiroTherapy’s upmovie, instead of just a snapshot picture coming sports physical clinic to support of when the injury happens.” local student-athletes scheduled for Fri“Since I opened my doors, I have seen day, June 3 from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. by appointa lot of student-athletes who suffer con- ment. Proceeds are donated back to the cussions,” he added. “After diving down a Newsome Athletic Boosters. rabbit hole for about six months, I believe Motion Chirotherapy is located at 16765 we now have the best way to monitor the FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia in the Winn-Dixie cognitive function of your brain to know Plaza across from Newsome High School. when or if you had a traumatic event.” Office hours are 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday EQ Active assists in determining the and Thursday; 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday and extent of a head injury and helping the Wednesday; and 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday. doctor make data-driven decisions about Visit motionchirotherapy.com or call treatment and recovery. 813-793-7791 for more information and Dr. Lutz added, “It also allows us to to schedule an appointment.
Volume 21, Issue 6
OCULAR MELANOMA FUNDRAISER SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER
Staff Report
The fifth annual ing events, adding on 5K event to help more registrants and bring awareness increasing the dollars and raise funds for raised each year. research for ocular Bernadette and melanoma is schedO’Brien are extremely uled to take place on excited about returnSaturday, October 1, ing to Park Square at Park Square PlaPlaza. za in Lithia. “Our change in locaOcular melanotion in 2021 brought ma (OM) is a rare growth in attendance disease which afand dollars raised and fects six out of one The fifth annual 5K event to help bring aware- they are deeply appreness and raise funds for research for ocular million people each ciative of the support melanoma is scheduled to take place on Satur- of the community and year. Currently, with no known cure, OM day, October 1 at Park Square Plaza in Lithia. the local businessis referred to as an orphan dises,” said Bernadette. “The 5K ease. Of the people diagnosed, event will begin and end at Park 50 percent of them will develop Square on October 1. Having our metastasis, which usually travevent at Park Square encouragels to the liver and the lungs. es community involvement and, Bernadette Boyle and Linda like last year, they look forward O’Brien, the race directors for to promoting the Park Square this event, have a vested interest businesses, local family-run in this disease. Bernadette lost her husband, businesses and the surrounding businesses Joe Boyle, in January 2016 and O’Brien is in the FishHawk area.” still fighting with yearly scans and eye exTheir hopes for this year’s event are simams; O’Brien remains NED—no evidence ple: to surpass their 2021 achievements. In of disease. Their decision to organize a 5K 2021, there were 250 participants, 70-plus started back in 2017 when they learned raffle items, 20-plus sponsors and $21,000 that the Melanoma Research Foundation’s raised and donated to the Melanoma Re‘Miles for Melanoma’ was not going to be search Foundation. held in the Tampa area. Up to this point, Please visit their Facebook page at www. Bernadette and O’Brien created a ‘Florida facebook.com/cureocularmelanoma to folCureOM’ team for the Miles for Melanoma low their posts and updates. event. Bernadette and O’Brien saw a need If you are interested in learning more to continue with this mission: they wanted about their event and/or sponsoring or doto raise funds for research and bring aware- nating, email yournextstepisthecure@aol. ness to ocular melanoma. In November com. For registration for the race/walk and 2017, they held their first 5K at E.G. Sim- to donate, visit https://runsignup.com/race/ mons Park in Ruskin. They continued hold- fl/lithia/yournextstepisthecure.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2022
Page 15
IN-DEPTH WITH DAVIS ALLOWS FOR CLOSER LOOK AT HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS By Linda Chion Through online then it has “slingshot videos hosted by Adinto what I want my dison Davis, school career field to be.” officials said it’s never Principal Marcos Rotoo early to research driguez said gaining the wide range of life skills through the choices and programs program “is huge and available in Hillsborinstrumental,” even if ough County Public students decide not to Addison Davis (left), superintendent of Schools for students pursue careers in auwithin and outside its Hillsborough public schools, in the In-Depth tomotive technology. attendance boundar- with Davis video shot at Bloomingdale High At Armwood High School with Principal Marcos Rodriguez. School in Seffner, ies. “Our in-depth segDavis explored the ments strive to take school’s collegiate an in-depth look at our academy, which allows staff, our students and students to earn their programs that make liberal arts Associate our district so great,” in Arts (A.A.) degree said Davis, the school through Hillsborough district’s superintenCommunity College dent of schools. “We while also meeting the want to make sure Addison Davis (left), superintendent of requirements for their that all of our families Hillsborough public schools, in the In- high school diplomas. and students know Depth with Davis video shot at Armwood “It’s not just a about every one of our High School with Collegiate Academy cost-saving measure,” Instructor Theodore Newfield. amazing opportunities said teacher Theodore within our schools.” Newfield, adding that it allows students At Bloomingdale High School in Valrico, “to explore other career opportunities they Davis talked with teacher Richard Fortney, might not even be aware of,” even if they whose automotive services program al- change their minds by graduation. Better lows students to earn Automotive Service to change their minds now, Newfield said, Excellence (ASE) certifications. “rather than when they get off to college.” The ASE certification has “major, masIn-Depth with Davis segments include sive name recognition,” Fortney said. topics that cover mental health, virtual ed“When you walk in with an ASE certifi- ucation, school reopening issues, Hispanic cation, that says you know what you’re Heritage Month, Black History Month, talking about. You have earned the right to kindergarten readiness, magnet choice opbe in that automotive shop. You are above tions, career and technical education prowhere everybody else is just walking off grams, environmental studies and agriculthe street.” ture programs. View for yourself at https:// One student said he took the class “to get www.youtube.com/results?search_quebasic knowledge of my car” and that since ry=in-depth+with+davis+channel.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
SEVEN LOCAL JROTC STUDENTS RECOGNIZED WITH ROTC MEDALS AND CERTIFICATES Staff Report The Alafia RivForce and Marine er Chapter of the Corps. They are seNational Society lected by their JROTC Daughters of the leaders and meet the American Revofollowing criteria: lution (NSDAR) • Recipients must is pleased to anhave demonstrated nounce the winners loyalty and patriotism of their awards to and earned a record of JROTC students military and scholastic at seven local high achievement during schools. These stutheir participation in dents were recan ROTC program. ognized for their • Students must be excellence in acin the upper 25 perCadet Corporal Lydia Davis of Strawberry Crest ademics and par- High School was presented with an ROTC Medal cent of their classes in ticipation in the ROTC and in academic and certificate by Sheryl Shangler. program: subjects. • Bloomingdale High School - Cadet Heidi Gri• They must have shown qualities of dener, presented by Kim Ruiz. pendability and good character and patriot• Brandon High School - Cadet Adryana Pagan, ic understanding of the importance of ROTC presented by Glenda Thurow. training. • Durant High School - Cadet Airman First “Every year, I can tell you they’re always Class Amber Delaney, presented by Roberta Joroutstanding young people,” Ruiz said. “Their dan. leadership skills, their maturity, their com• Newsome High School - Cadet Jessica Lee, mitment to being part of but also standing presented by Roberta Jordan. • Strawberry Crest High School - Cadet Cor- out as individual leaders is just really heartporal Lydia Davis, presented by Sheryl Shangler. warming to see.” • Armwood High School - Cadet Staff SerShe also wanted to recognize Melody geant Bailey Couch. Powers, chairman of the National Defense • Tampa Bay Technical High School - Cadet TyCommittee at the Alafia River Chapter NStianna Green, presented by Claudia Conner. DAR, for helping to make these ceremonies “It’s probably five or six years where I’ve possible. been going to the schools and doing this ev“She coordinates with the schools to gathery year. It’s a lot of fun to watch the stu- er the names of the award winners, has that dents cheer each other on as they’re getting information printed on their certificates these different awards,” said Ruiz, public re- then schedules chapter members to present lations and media chair at the Alafia River the awards at the school’s award ceremony,” Chapter NSDAR. said Ruiz. Certificates and Bronze ROTC Medals For more information about the Daughare awarded to student cadets of outstand- ters of the American Revolution, contact it ing ability and achievement in high school at arcregistrar201921@gmail.com or visit JROTC programs of the Army, Navy, Air at www.fssdar.com/Alafiariver/.
Volume 21, Issue 6
TEACHERS GET SOUTHEASTERN GUIDE DOG PUPPY SURPRISE
Staff Report
It takes two words Tidwell comes in with to tell someone you Bernard, we all seem appreciate them. Tellto gravitate towards ing an entire school of him to check on his teachers – now that progress and just takes a room full of spend time loving puppies. on him because he is On May 4, teachers such a calming presand staff at Bevis Eleence. The students mentary School were and staff all love him.” surprised with ‘Puppy When it came time Palooza,’ an exclusive to plan for Teacher opportunity to hold, Appreciation Week, hug and play with loThoms said partnercal guide-dog-in-training with Southeasting puppies as a way ern Guide Dogs was Teachers and staff at Bevis Elementary to say thank you for the obvious choice. School in Lithia had the chance to meet their hard work and Teachers and staff and play with puppies from Southeastern dedication throughwere able to love Guide Dogs during Teacher Appreciation out the school year. on the puppies, take Week last month. The event was insome calming and spired by a parent at the stress-free time to themschool, Patricia Tidwell, selves and help the pupwho is raising guide dog py raisers with socialBernard for Southeastizing the dogs all at the ern Guide Dogs along same time. with her son’s fifth “Body-handling and grade class. The puppies socializing our puppies were brought by the early benefits them for Eastern Hillsborough their future careers County puppy raiser and cuddling puppies group, volunteers who is a stress relief for the take a puppy into their teachers,” said Tidwell. homes and hearts for “It’s a win-win.” about a year and help Seven puppies, most train them for a future serving the visual- of which were about 12-week-old guide ly impaired, veterans with post-traumatic dogs in training, attended the event along stress disorder and children with signifi- with Bevis teachers and staff. cant challenges. Bevis Elementary School is located at “The dogs have become a part of our 5720 Osprey Ridge Dr. in Lithia. For more family,” said Bevis Elementary School information, about Southeastern Guide Principal Rebecca Thoms. “When Mrs. Dogs, visit www.guidedogs.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2022
Page 17
NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP ROUNDTABLE EXTENDS REACH WITH GREATER RIVERVIEW, GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER SUPPORT By Linda Chion Open to everymaking sure they are body and backed aware of resources availby both the Greatable, and sharing resourcer Riverview and es in a challenging time,” Greater Plant City Doran said. “He has perchambers of comsonal experience building merce, the Nonup his own nonprofit, and profit Leadership I love the way he shares Roundtable meets information and grants virtually on the opportunities.” fourth Tuesday of Virtual meetings the month. Pat Simmons, founder of the nonPat Simmons, founder of Bikes For profit Bikes For Christ, runs the Nonprofit Leadership Christ, said he is Roundtable with chamber support. in a good place to take the roundtable to its next level of en- allow the gagement. round“The purpose is to educate our nonprof- table to its and to help them continue to grow,” e x t e n d Simmons said. “Also, the networking al- its reach, lows us to know what’s going on with our Simmons said, as he nonprofit friends and how we can all work “brings in a lot of good speakers to help together to make a stronger community.” educate people as to how to grow and The brainchild of Plant City Chamber make their nonprofits stronger.” President Christine Miller, the roundtable Bikes For Christ traces its roots to a once met in chamber space, until office 2015 mission trip where Simmons said spaces were sold, and the chamber meets he learned “what real poverty is like in a now in temporary space. third-world country.” Coming home, “I Meanwhile, at a Riverview Chamber didn’t know what I wanted to, but I wantgathering, Simmons talked about the ed to do something to make a difference in roundtable, which is when Tanya Dor- my own community.” an, the chamber’s chief executive officer, Working with organizations that serve expressed an interest in working with the poor and homeless, Simmons comthe roundtable to extend its reach in the bined his love of cycling to mobility needs. Greater Riverview area. Roughly 10 per- Since 2016, Bikes For Christ works with cent of the chamber’s 720 members are more than 70 organizations across four nonprofits, Doran said. counties to provide bicycles for transpor“Pat has been very engaged with us, tation. educating the nonprofits in our area and For more, visit www.bikes4christ.com.
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Knock, Knock. Who’s there?
Florida is home to eight resident yearround species of woodpeckers, which include the red-headed, red-bellied, downy, hairy, red-cockaded, yellow-bellied sapsucker, northern flicker and pileated woodpeckers. The largest and most recognizable of those would have to be the pileated woodpecker. Pileated woodpeckers have the classic look that is most often associated with these fascinating birds. They average sizes of about 15-20 inches long, similar to a crow, which also makes them the largest woodpecker in all of North America. Unmistakable by their red mohawk, black bodies, white-striped sides and long necks, pileated woodpeckers are very striking and an exciting sight to see. Pileated woodpeckers are year-round residents in the state. They mostly inhabit tree-dense areas with downed and dead trees that they have drilled out with their beaks; however, they are also observed in backyards in the suburbs. Pileated woodpeckers are insectivores and feed primarily on ants, termites and beetle larvae. The most common woodpecker that is widespread throughout the state would be the red-bellied woodpeckers. These birds are a bit smaller, averaging around 8-9 inches in length. In contrast to the pileated woodpecker, red-bellied woodpeckers lack the bright red mohawk atop their head, instead showcasing their lighter,
rusty, slim-lined head. Their belly actually is not even red, it is white with a faint tint of color, and their wings have a beautiful black-and-white striped pattern. Red-bellied woodpeckers are also more common to observe grazing from your traditional bird and hummingbird feeders in your yard. Red-bellied woodpeckers are similarly found in wooded areas with dead trees, but their diet varies, as they mostly consume acorns, fruits, nectar, nuts and sometimes small frogs. Interestingly, these birds can return to nest in the same nest every year, though each year they will excavate a new cavity to use. Woodpeckers play a crucial role in our ecosystem and act as natural pest control. In addition to this, the nest holes that they create also serve as habitat for several other species or birds and other animals. It should be noted that all woodpeckers are protected in the state under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and cannot be harmed or killed. Enjoy their beautiful and unique presence and keep an ear open, you never know when you may hear a busy woodpecker at work. Ali Holton is currently director of FishHawk TNR Inc. She has a master’s in biodiversity, wildlife and ecosystems and 20 years of experience specializing in animal behavior and conservation. To reach her, email fishhawktnr4@gmail.com.
Page 18
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
GET THE DIRT:
GREAT LANDSCAPE ADDITIONS: FLORIDA-FRIENDLY ORNAMENTAL GRASSES BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT Purple fountain grass, Ornamental grasses Pennisetum setaceum ‘Ruare a great addition to brum,’ can reach a height any landscape. They add of 4-6 feet and spread texture, color, form and of 2-4 feet and prefers interest. These grasses full sun. It has moderate need the same types of drought tolerance and maintenance as other needs well-drained soil landscape plants (water, moisture. Purple fountain fertilizer, division) but Muhly Pink Grass grass has narrow purple generally require much leaves with purple-pink less. As with all types of or copper flowers in plants, consider your site summer and fall. This is conditions, which include an excellent ornamental sun, shade, mature size grass when used in mass (height and spread) for plantings, containers, as placement purposes, soil an accent, border or cut pH, soil moisture and soil flowers. It can reseed into texture. The ornamental Fakahatchee Grass surrounding areas, which grasses below thrive in could be good or bad deCentral Florida. pending on your location Muhly grass, Muhlenand preference. bergia capillaris, a native All grasses in this arplant, reaches a height ticle are easy to divide, of 3-4 feet and spread share with your friends of 2-3 feet. It prefers full and neighbors or use to sun, can tolerate extreme create more color in your drought and flooding, has own landscape. Once esmoderate salt tolerance Purple Fountain Grass tablished, irrigation may not be needed at and works well in wetland sites and beachall. You can consider annual fertilization, but front landscapes. Muhly grass has narrow foliage and produces pink/purple fall flow- these plants generally obtain enough nutriers. It is used as a border, an accent, in mass ents from the soil. For more in-depth information on these and other Florida-Friendly plantings and as cut flowers. Fakahatchee grass, Tripsacum dactyloides, ornamental grasses, using your browser, go another native, reaches a height and spread to ‘Ask IFAS’ followed by each of the followof 4-6 feet. It prefers full sun, does well in ing: Considerations for Selection and Use of partial shade/partial sun and tolerates flood- Ornamental Grasses, Muhly Grass and Puring and standing water. Fakahatchee grass ple Fountain Grass. Call 813-744-5519 or visit UF/IFAS Exproduces cream/yellow/orange/red flowers tension Hillsborough County, located at from spring through summer and is a larval 5339 County Rd. 579 in Seffner. food plant for the byssus skipper butterfly.
Volume 21, Issue 6
HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS FOCUSES ON SUMMER LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
By Superintendent Addison Davis
The pandemic has undoubtedly created interruptions in learning unlike anything ever seen in our educational system. While Hillsborough County Public Schools has focused on accelerated learning this academic year to bring students up to speed, we must continue our quest to bridge the achievement gap by providing a multitude of Summer Learning Program options throughout our district. Studies show students can lose up to 30 percent of learning gains while taking a break over the summer month, which is widely known as the ‘summer slide.’ This occurrence can be especially damaging for students who have not met benchmarks for promotion as well as the more vulnerable student populations that need increased support. Hillsborough County Public Schools will offer dozens of Summer Learning Programs for all grade bands. We will follow a two-pronged approach by providing opportunities for students struggling to grasp grade-level content as well as high-achieving learners looking for enrichment programs based on their interests. Students who need Summer Learning for grade promotion or credit recovery will be asked to confirm participation through an online registration link. These comprehensive courses will include individualized interventions with a focus on small-group instruction to allow students
to better grasp content. This will include a Migrant School Readiness program for English language learners to strengthen understanding of core concepts. Our district is also thrilled to offer innovative summer camps for enrichment, such as a STEM Rocket Camp, Dual Language Success Camp, Nature’s Classroom Water Adventure Camp, Cyber Patriot Camp as well as an Elementary Summer Scholars Program. Each initiative offers unique hands-on learning opportunities to excite learners while sparking their curiosity and love for learning. Students who participate in a Summer Learning Program with Hillsborough County Public Schools will be better prepared for the upcoming academic year. The goal is to strengthen understanding, build capacity and minimize pandemic-related interruptions in learning that we have seen not only in our district but across the nation. Our communities will contend with what is called ‘unfinished learning’ due to the pandemic for some time. Our learners lost weeks to months of valuable instruction time in front of high-quality instructors as our nation dealt with a world health emergency. By providing authentic learning experiences over the summer months to promote achievement and understanding, we will continue our pursuit of closing the achievement gap.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2022
Page 19
ACE GOLF’S EXPANSION BEGAN 20 YEARS AGO...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 By Taylor Wells come, as the ownnow,” said Place. ers are still consid“I’ve seen a big ering the offer, and outpouring from a whether the rezonnumber of people ing will continue in the community depends on many that they’ve realother factors. ly enjoyed having Regardless, the recreation.” Place wants to celThere’s even a ebrate Ace Golf in woman who told Riverview’s 20th Place that she anniversary next brings her father Players at Ace Golf in Riverview’s driving range. year, as it opened in to Ace Golf because 2003, so the comhe has demenmunity can look tia and playing forward to joining miniature golf is in. The specific something they time and type of can enjoy tocelebration are to gether often. Afbe decided later. ter many years “What’s kind of a since opening, funny thing about Ace Golf in Rivthe location, when erview has bewe first went in come a place there, we actually beloved by the had a lot of resicommunity. dent opposition to “It’s been a us building the golf great 20 years Ace Golf in Riverview’s driving range features range there, and we rolling canopies, Celebration Bermuda grass and so far, and we finally did get the apappreciate all plenty of light for nighttime games. proval to build, and within six months some the support that people have shown,” said of the same residents that opposed had re- Place. quested a crosswalk to be established—a Ace Golf in Riverview is located at 12910 signalized crosswalk to the neighborhood Boyette Rd. Its hours are Sunday through across the street—and they were success- Thursday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. (closes at 8 p.m. on ful in getting that put in. Now, flash-forward Monday); Friday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Saturto where this builder has proposed putting day, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. in homes, we’re finding some people are acVisit https://ace-golf.com/ for more intually expressing opposition to us leaving formation.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition hosting a Music Bingo fundraiser at Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. on Thursday, June 16 at 7 p.m. Come out and support your Cougar Pride Marching Band. If you would like to make a donation, please contact Shelley at dmbfundraiser@gmail.com. Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. is located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.
Flag Day, Durant Band, Meet & Greet Candidates & More...
Candidate Meet And Greet
Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
Celebrate Flag Day With The Brandon Elks Lodge
Are you aware of the upcoming primary elections being held in August and would like to meet local candidates and find out more about them? 5th Gear Fitness is hosting many local candidates on Saturday, June 11 from 1-3 p.m. at 5th Gear Fitness located at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 211 in Brandon. The local event will be hosted by Gretchen Trasorras, Patrick Bailey. Maria Perez, Clarice Henderson, Kris Beaird and Linda Townsend. Each candidate will have time to speak, explain their platform and have a Q&A session afterwards. For more information, please email patrickbnhs@gmail.com.
Patriotism has characterized the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America since the early days of the organization. Allegiance to the flag of our country is a requirement of every member. The Brandon Elks Lodge, located at 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. in Brandon, will be hosting its annual Flag Day celebration on Sunday, Indoor Shopping Bazaar The FishHawk Ranch Shopping Bazaar will June 5. The celebrations start at 2 p.m. with take place on Saturday, June 4 between 10 a ceremony conducted by Boy Scout Troop a.m.-3 p.m. at the Palmetto Club, located at 627. The event is a great opportunity to show 17004 Dorman Rd. in Lithia. There will be your family what Flag Day is all about. over 40 vendors participating in this indoor Durant High School Band Fund- event, so enjoy an array of wonderful products provided and created by local vendors raiser At Bullfrog Creek Brewing and artisans. Stop by to find that one-of-aCo. kind gift or to treat yourself to something The Durant High School Music Program is special.
Volume 21, Issue 6
Freedom Plaza Open House
Freedom Plaza in Sun City Center is hosting an open house. Do not miss this opportunity to view the luxurious model apartment homes. Along with viewing the apartments, you will meet the department leaders and learn more about the exceptional independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, in-home care, hospice care and rehab offered. The open house will take place on Wednesday, June 15 from 3-5 p.m. at Freedom Plaza, located at 1010 American Eagle Blvd. in Sun City Center. For more information, visit www.freedomplazafl.com or call 813-634-1824.
how to choose a brain fitness program. The workshop will be held at The Bridges, located at 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. It is free to attend and includes lunch. Call Janet on 813-413-8900 to reserve your seat.
National Active And Retired Federal Employees Chapter Meeting
National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Chapter 109 will meet on Monday, June 13 at 12:30 p.m. Speaker Rita Smith will explain the new Postal Reform Act which recently became law and its impact. The meeting will be held at the Tampa Buffet restaurant, located at 3903 S. Dale Mabry in Tampa in Britton Plaza. For more information, contact Terry Zitek at 813-251-5611.
How To Maintain Brain Fitness East Hillsborough Democratic Presentation Club Meeting Just as our bodies need exercise to stay fit, our brains need exercise to maintain cognitive abilities. Dr. Jerri Edwards, professor and researcher at USF College of Medical Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, will present ‘The Aging Brain: Hoe to Maintain Brain Fitness’ on Thursday, June 9 from 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. Dr. Edwards will explain what happens to cognitive abilities with age, how we can maintain our cognitive abilities, what makes brain fitness programs effective and
Join the East Hillsborough Democratic Club at Brandon Crossroads Bowl, located at 609 Crater Ln. in Tampa, or on Zoom for the monthly meeting on June 14 at 6:30 p.m. The guest speaker will be Andrew Learned. Please go to the club calendar on the website at www.easthillsboroughdems.org an hour before the meeting to register and check for updates, or you can call 813-677-8300 and leave a message. All like-minded individuals are welcome.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2022
Page 21
KITTEN SHOWER PREPARES HILLSBOROUGH SHELTER FOR KITTEN SEASON
By Taylor Wells
(Left) Three men with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue standing behind Chelsea Goss, senior supervisor of volunteer services at Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center and Max the dog at the center’s kitten shower. (Right) Rockland was recently adopted from the Pet Resource Center.
Kitten season, a monthslong time of the year when Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center takes in hundreds of kittens, is just beginning, so the center is expecting a lot of babies soon. To help with the seasonal influx—and to introduce residents to the possibilities of fostering kittens, cats or dogs and what they need to know—it hosted a kitten shower on April 30. The event featured giveaway baskets, enrichment activities like making cat toys, the chance to name kittens at the shelter, a Hillsborough County Fire Rescue fire truck and the opportunity to tour the shelter. “We had a lot of donations of blankets and towels, litter was donated, some food supplies were donated, toys were donated, so that was definitely a huge help for us as well,” said Chelsea Goss, senior supervisor of volunteer services at the Pet Resource Center. Kittens present a special set of challenges for shelter staff, especially very young kittens that require hand-feeding if their mom is not present. The kitten shower also gave information and resources on how residents can become a foster parent to kittens, cats or dogs that just need a little love and help to find a new home.
Goss was glad to say the event went well, as several families interested in adopting kittens had attended and a few new potential foster parents were signed up to help out when more kittens come during kitten season. Foster parents received training and were given the chance to take care of pets for as little as two weeks. The center’s foster program provides a temporary, safe place for pets to live, and behavioral or other information foster parents provide significantly increases the chance of a successful adoption when the pet is returned to the shelter. “We had 32 dogs adopted that day, and 20 cats went home that day as well,” said Goss. If you find kittens, Goss said to wait several hours for their mom to return before deciding they’re orphans and bringing them to the Pet Resource Center, as the mom usually returns soon. Although, if you see a mom with her kittens and are concerned about them, you’re welcome to bring them to the center so it can see what it can do for them. The shelter hosts a kitten shower each April, so the community can look forward to attending another one next year. Those interested in fostering for the Pet Resource Center can email fosterpets@hcflgov.net.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY AGING FREE DAILY RANGE BALLS & MINI SERVICES SENIOR CENTERS REOPEN GOLF FOR KIDS THIS SUMMER By Tatiana Ortiz
In March 2020, “I am excited as the Hillsborough many of our seniors County Aging Serhad asked about vices senior cenwhen it would reters closed due open,” McKay said. to the COVID-19 “The seniors pandemic. On April could not wait to 25, three locations, see one another including those loface to face,” she cal to Southeastern added. Hillsborough CounVolunteers of all ty in Ruskin, Plant ages are needed. City and Progress Clients swaying to music during a game of Name Students interestThat Tune at the Progress Village Senior Center. Village, reopened, ed in volunteering offering events and activican earn community serties for seniors and service vices hours that qualify toopportunities for local volwards the Bright Futures unteers. By the end of June Scholarships. Some of the of this year, all 22 locations areas where the volunwill be reopened. teers will be assisting in Last month, the Progwould be facilitating an ress Village location had exercise activity and much a bongo and conga drum more. player, Name That Tune, Hillsborough County testimonials and more for Aging Services provides the attendees. The locaan array of services, such tion is implementing many as in-home services, acsafety protocols, including tive adult programming, extra sanitizing and oper- Mildred Domineck, 75, a member referral services and hot ating at a 50 percent ca- of Hillsborough County Aging Ser- meals. It is geared toward vices Progress Village Senior Center. enhancing the lives of oldpacity. Mary Jo McKay, nutrier adults ages 50 and up. tion and wellness manager at the HillsborThe senior centers will be open Monday ough County Aging Services, explained that through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Many of lower COVID numbers are the reason as to the activities are driven by the seniors. why the senior centers are reopening. For more information, visit https://www. According to McKay, although the se- hillsboroughcounty.org/en/government/denior centers are reopening, virtual activities partments/aging. Anyone seeking general will still be available, as it is important to information about the aging services should the group that it continues reaching those call 813-272-5250. Those with questions homebound seniors so they, too, can partici- about volunteering, should call 813-853pate and not miss out. 2017.
Staff Report Are the kids driving you crazy and playing too many video games this summer? Want to have them do something healthy and learn a lifelong sport? Ace Golf is offering a free summer golf practice program for kids ages 5-15. Every day from Wednesday, June 1 through Wednesday, 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 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 Tiger Woods.” Here’s how it works: • Children may sign up for free at any of three Ace Golf locations in Riverview, Land O’ Lakes and Tarpon Springs. • Each child receives a daily stamp card for one free small bucket each day. • Each time the child redeems their free bucket, they will get a stamp on their card noting the redemption. An adult must accompany them. • No purchase is necessary. Kids should bring a golf club with them or may rent one.
• At the Riverview and Land O’ Lakes locations, kids may substitute the small bucket each for miniature golf (one round per day). In addition to the Free Bucket or Mini Golf program, kids may also play golf for free when accompanied by a paying parent at all Ace Golf Courses (18hole golf courses) after 12 Noon every day now through the end of October. Ace Golf Range is located at 12910 Boyette Rd. in Riverview (call 813-672-7750). Its hours are Sunday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. (closes at 8 p.m. on Monday); Friday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Saturday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. The facilities feature lighted golf practice ranges, miniature golf and batting cages. For more information, go to ace-golf.com. Ace Golf Courses include the Plantation Palms Golf Club in Land O’ Lakes (call 813-996-4653 or visit plantationpalms. net) and the Crescent Oaks Country Club at 3300 Crescent Oaks Blvd. in Tarpon Springs (call 727-937-4653 or visit crescentoaksgolf.com). All Ace Golf Courses are open to the public and offer membership, dining and banquet centers. Ace Golf is locally and family-owned by Su Lee and Bill Place since 1993. In addition to the free kids program, each location offers summer golf camps, clinics, and private and group golf lessons.
June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk
June 2022, Vol. 21, Iss. 6
EXPLORE AT TAMPA HISTORY CENTER READ FULL ARTICLE ON PAGE 35.
Father’s Day Engraving Event At AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor Join Ajay Jambhekar, owner of AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor, for his Father’s Day engraving event featuring a wide selection of spirits to have engraved, including a variety of Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve Bourbons. These make for perfect personalized gifts for dad and are also perfect for thank-you presents or a ‘just because.’ The engraving event will take place at AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor, located at 3443 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, on Saturday, June 11 from 6-9 p.m. Preorders are highly encouraged, and there are no quantity restrictions. Call AJ’s at 813-654-6488 to make your preorder selection.
others. Concierge Healthcare Training & Services is located at 11252 Winthrop rentals as well as instruction, Main St., Ste. B in Riverview. sales and repairs. For more inforAdditional information can mation, visit its website at www.sweetwa- be found on its website at www.conciergeterkayaks.com, call 727-570-4844 or follow healthtrain.com or by calling 813-856-5104. it on Facebook @paddleswk or Instagram http://www.sweetwaterkayaks.com/. @sweetwater.kayaks.
The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce celebrates Hampton with free Wi-Fi. Inn & Suites Tampa Riverview Brandon’s two-year anniversary.
Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Riverview Brandon is located at 10240 Causeway Blvd. in Tampa and is conveniently located for the Port Tampa Bay cruise terminals, Riverwalk and Busch Gardens. To learn more about Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Riverview Brandon, visit its website at www.hilton.com/en/ho- Concierge Healthcare Training SerHampton Inn & Suites Celebrates Two tels/tparvhx-hampton-suites-tampa-river- vices & Consultants Opens Classroom view-brandon or call 813-497-4590. Years In Riverview The Greater Riverview Chamber of ComConcierge Healthcare Training Services merce recently held a ribbon-cutting cere- Sweetwater Kayaks Opens New Loca- & Consultants’ mission is to add value, skill mony at the Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa tion At Bullfrog Creek and knowledge to the health care indusSweetwater Kayaks has had a location in try by providing quality training to future Riverview Brandon, commemorating its two-year anniversary at this location. When St. Petersburg for the last 23 years and is health care providers and the communities staying at this hotel, you can fuel up on the very excited to now be servicing the east- served. Its passion is in training others to free hot breakfast and wind down in the ern side of the bay. Its new location is at the be prepared to save a life by offering qualGeneral Store & Market at 11307 ity health and safety certification training relaxing pool. U.S. Hwy. 41 S. in Gibsonton, giv- classes directed by experienced health care In between ing access to Bullfrog Creek. It professionals, all with a personalized apyou can catch is currently open Friday through proach. Classes offered include CPR, new up on work Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., for kayak, parent CPR, phlebotomy training, IV skills or your elecstand-up paddleboard and canoe sessions, medical billing, coding as well as tric social life
Chiro-Express Offers Quality Affordable Chiropractic Therapy Chiro-Express helps its patients reach their optimal health by delivering quality, affordable therapy to all patients. It provides chiropractic therapy, proprioceptive nerve facilitation, rehab/physiotherapy, manual therapy, electric muscle stimulation, vibrawave therapy and neuromuscular reeducation. It treats individuals from the age of 5 whether due to a car accident, slip or fall or for periodic alignment and maintenance. It is dedicated to creating a stress-free, welcoming environment where everyone can experience chiropractic care in a setting that treats everyone like family. Chiro-Express is located at 2222 E. SR60 in Valrico (next to
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... Dunkin’ Donuts). Additional information can be found on its website at www.chiroexpressfamily.com, Facebook @ChiroExpressFL, Instagram @ChiroExpress or by calling 813-540-7246. Huntington Learning Center Under New Management Huntington Learning Center Brandon recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce in honor of its new management team and to commemorate the center being a part of the community for 28 years. Huntington Learning Center Brandon is excited to move forward with a new drive and goals to build strong connections and involvement in the community while strengthening the academic needs of area students. Using highly trained tutors in multiple areas of education, Huntington works with students of all ages and abilities, helping them to improve their grades, build organizational skills and self-confidence and develop overall good study habits. Offering individualized programs with flexible schedules, Huntington Learning can help raise test scores and fill in the gaps for students who need a little extra assistance or help to avoid the summer slide. A summer at Huntington leads to a better school year, so make this time count. Huntington Learning Center Brandon is located at 1590 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For more, call 813-681-1500 or visit its website at https://huntingtonhelps. com/center/brandon.
Tiki Boat Of Riverview Celebrates One-Year Anniversary Tiki Boat of Riverview is celebrating its one-year anniversary. Join captains Jeff and Dan on their boat for cruises on the Alafia River, Hillsborough River and Tampa Bay. They will provide a cooler with ice and bottled water, and you can bring snacks and beverages of your choice. Cruises vary in length, from the very popular sunset cruises to an allday 8-hour cruise, and they are suitable for up to six guests. For more information, visit www. info@tikiboatofriverview. com or call 813-815-6220. Kombi Keg Mobile Bar Rental Kombi Keg is a retro chic mobile bar rental owned by local resident Joshua Folckemer and his wife. It can be used for events such as weddings, birthday parties, retirement parties, community events and even corporate events. It offers many unique features, including six taps for dispensing alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, a 50-inch rooftop TV to display pictures or videos, a wet bar area for bottled beverages and memorable photo opportunities. To find out more information, visit www.kombikeg.com or call 941-9933515.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
Volume 21, Issue 6
NEW VALUE-ADDED MEMBERSHIP MODEL AT HIGH 5 INC. Staff Report Everyone feels like they belong at High 5 Inc.—and now they officially can. This nonprofit is known for superior educational, athletic, aquatic and recreational programs for all ages and needs is converting to a new membership model to offer more programs and privileges to children, teens, athletes, adults and those with special needs. “Just as High 5 is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of the Brandon community, this new membership model will include more benefits and programs that make a positive difference in the experience of its members,” said CEO Chuck Burgess. From more after-school programs to expanded athletic facilities, High 5 has been adding, increasing, enhancing and refreshing many of its offerings, with many more on the way. Some of the improvements that can already be experienced include: •A new playground area and walkways. •A complete resurfacing of its existing hard courts for tennis. •Eight brand-new Pickleball courts. •A wide-open space newly created for those with special needs in the TRIDENT program. •New competition-ready starting blocks in the 50-meter swimming pool. •Brand-new locker rooms. •Upgraded AC systems. “These recent improvements are just the beginning of the many benefits that High 5’s members, their families, participating athletes and the special needs community will
experience with the new membership model,” said Burgess, who added that additional benefits include: •Special pricing with greater savings. •Early registration for after-school, summer camp and athletic programs. •Exclusive invitations to members-only events. •Bigger, better facilities. •Faster check-in. •Brand-new opportunities for cross-program training at reduced rates. •Member-driven discounts on summer camp, court rentals, merchandise and more. “High 5’s membership opportunities will allow us to create an even greater community feel in all our programs,” said Burgess. “With a goal of bringing more people together, we’ve created ‘stay awhile spaces,’ member perks, cool member-themed events and unique opportunities for families. Plus, we’ve actually lowered our program pricing with the membership knowing that families are feeling the effects of pricing increases elsewhere. That’s the High 5 way.” High 5 Inc. is a community-based nonprofit organization providing superior after-school, academic, athletic, water safety, sports and recreation and special needs programs that enhance physical, mental and spiritual well-being. High 5’s mission is based on five pillars of service, which include After-School Education, Learn to Swim, Special Needs Education, Sports and Recreation and Community Partnerships. For information, contact High 5 Inc. at 813-689-0809 or visit high5inc.com.
June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
PET THERAPISTS WELCOME AT ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-SOUTH
NEW FLORIDA TRADE ACADEMY JOINS THE COMMUNITY
By Libby Hopkins
By Kate Quesada
St. Joseph’s ery week. “He is Hospital-South a totally differhas a very iment dog when he portant volunputs on his vest. teer, and he is He knows he is looking for some going to work.” friends to join Romeo’s duties him. include greetRomeo, a ing patients and 6-year-old, longstaff at the front haired German desk and visitshepherd, vol- Anya Shapiro, a 5-year-old from Riverview, got a pet ing patients in unteers with his therapy visit from Romeo, a 6-year-old, long-haired rooms who have German shepherd, and his handler, Bill Bergsma, also owner, Bill Bergrequested pet from Riverview. Romeo’s been a pet therapy dog at St. sma, every week therapy. Joseph’s Hospital-South for three years. at the hospital, “We often end bringing joy and up in the pedicomfort to patients atric wing because so and staff members many of the kids love alike, and according to him,” said Bergsma. the hospital’s volun“If they are scared, teer resource managthey usually stop cryer, Kim Wallace, there ing as soon as they see are opportunities for him and can pet him more canine philanduring treatments.” thropists. In order to parAccording to Walticipate in the prolace, the program begram, dogs must have gan at the hospital in passed one of the four 2015, and there are certification programs currently four dogs approved by BayCare. who regularly particThey must also be up ipate. to date on all shots Bergsma, who moved to Riverview and their owners have to provide the from Michigan three years ago, felt necessary paperwork every year. Romeo would be a good pet therapist “The experience is so rewarding for because of his personality and calm de- both of us,” said Bergsma. meanor. To learn more about the program and “I knew I needed to find him a job,” the requirements for volunteering, email he explained, adding that Romeo, who Wallace at kim.wallace@baycare.com. weighs more than 100 pounds, looks For more information on St. Joseph’s forward to coming to the hospital ev- Hospital South, visit www.baycare.org.
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Bernadette in the communiand Chris Pello ty. Chris tapped are Riverview Chuck Burgess, residents and the a nonprofit CEO founders of Livwith many local ingstone Acadecontacts, and my. Since LivingJeffrey Stone, a stone Academy successful busihas been a huge nessman and success for famentrepreneur, as ilies with special co-founders. Toneeds children, gether, they will the Pellos want- Florida Trade Academy has begun registration for be responsible for its fall semester. ed to branch out the daily operaand offer options of Florida tions to young Trade Acadadults who emy. “What may not pick makes FTA difcollege as a ferent is first career path. and foremost, “We wanted we are localto create Florly owned and ida Trade Academy (FTA) because we operated,” Chris said. “We are a nonprofrecognized the tremendous need in our it, and we have assembled a team with community for a career path for young over 100 combined years in education, adults, especially for those that may not nonprofit and business experience. Due want to attend college or a university,” to our sponsor, Associated Builders and Bernadette said. “Because we have been Contractors, we have access to over 450 involved in education for 30 years, it was member companies that will be looking a natural progression for us to launch to employ our students. We have a treFTA.” mendous amount of employment opporChris, an educator, community leader tunities for our students.” and school operations specialist, created Classes begin in September. FTA. For more than 35 years, he has been “Our hopes for FTA are that we can involved in education as a high school educate, train and place students in coach, athletic director, teacher and high-paying trade careers with little to principal. Over the last 20 years, Chris no student debt,” said Chris. “We also has also successfully founded and oper- plan to expand beyond the Tampa Bay ated four private schools in Hillsborough region and hope to provide these options County, now serving over 400 students in to students throughout the state of Florgrades K-12 with 85 employees. He knew ida.” that if FTA was going to be successful, To learn more, visit www.floridahe needed to recruit some major players tradeacademy.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS CRAIG LATIMER READIES FOR 2022 ELECTION CYCLE
By Linda Chion
Times have we started changed for reaching out to Craig Latimer our partners,” as Hillsborough Latimer said, County supernoting the influvisor of elecence of Tampa tions, a career Bay business he sought as a partners on priretired major mary and generwith the Hillsal election days borough County later that year. Sheriff’s Office. The Rays, the “If you told Bucs, the Lightme five years ning, the USF Photo courtesy of Linda Chion. ago you need Sports commuCraig Latimer at the Riverview Woman’s Club luncheon in to go and start nity “leveraged April at the VFW Riverview Post 8108. finding plexitheir social meglass, hand sanitizer and wipes, we would dia, indicating they were giving their peoall laugh,” Latimer said as the featured ple the day off to work at the polls, or to speaker at the Riverview Woman’s Club vote, and that everybody else should do luncheon in April. “But we did. One of my the same thing,” Latimer said. “We ended warehouses looked like an aisle at Costco up turning away 2,900 poll workers.” or Sam’s Club.” “We had a great election, Florida was a It’s not news that elections are in the shining star,” Latimer said about the 2020 news, not only for the results they report presidential election. “One of the biggest but also for the processes in which the reasons is we’re allowed to start counting votes are cast and tallied. As those de- vote-by-mail ballots 22 days before the bates continue, Latimer focuses on the elections.” strength of the system locally and in tryComing up is the Monday, July 25 ing times and the highpoints and lessons deadline to register for the 2022 primary learned for steadying the course of busi- election. Early voting is from Monday, Auness in tumultuous times. gust 8 to Sunday, August 21, followed by The first test came with the March 17, Election Day on Tuesday, August 23. The 2020 presidential preference primary, deadline to register for the 2022 general held days after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis election is Tuesday, October 11. Early votprohibited visitations to assisted living fa- ing is Monday, October 24 through Suncilities due to the onset of the coronavirus day, November 6. Election Day is Tuesday, pandemic. Ten polling sites were lost and November 8. hundreds of poll workers were unavailable. For more information, visit www.vote“We did what great organizations do, hillsborough.gov or call 813-744-5900.
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Volume 21, Issue 6
MICHAEL PERRY RECOGNIZED FOR WILDFIRE FIGHTING, PREVENTION WITH
HILLSBOROUGH’S FOREVER CONSERVATION AWARD By Linda Chion The sixth anled an estimated nual Theodore 200 prescribed Roosevelt Hillsburns and helped borough Forever contain 200 to Conservation 300 wildfires in Award has been the region, which presented to a White said made decorated VietPerry “as equalnam veteran ly comfortable who started his fighting wildfires Florida Forest Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County. as he was leadService career ing prescribed Michael Perry (center) after receiving the county’s as a towerman in Theodore Roosevelt Hillsborough Forever Conservation burns.” White a Valrico tower Award at the Hillsborough County Board of County also said PerCommissioners’ meeting on April 20. on the front lines ry served as “a of prescribed burns. passionate educator about these crucial Michael Perry received the award from and often misunderstood conservation the Hillsborough County commissioners efforts” and routinely met with residents at their April 20 meeting. The conser- both to promote and explain the benefits vation award is given annually to an in- of prescribed burns and to lead wildlife dividual or group for “attributes of true fire training for volunteer firefighters. conservation stewardship,” including “The firefighters, land managers and “integrity in performance toward conser- other experts who conduct prescribed vation goals” and “persistence and dedi- burns, also called controlled fires, are cation” to the long-term conservation of unsung heroes,” White said. “Mr. Perry is natural resources. synonymous with this essential practice Keep America Beautiful received the in Hillsborough County.” award last, the first time a group was In return, Perry said it was “humbling honored. According to Commissioner to be up here today receiving this award,” Stacy White, Perry received the award and he thanked his family for their supfor his integral role in developing Hills- port and friends through the county’s Jan borough’s prescribed fire program. K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition Proponents of prescribed fires as a and Protection Program (ELAPP), which land management program said they pro- to date has protected more than 60,000 mote healthy ecosystems by clearing out acres of rare and important habitat. competing vegetation. Moreover, White Launched in 1987, the program was resaid, the fires cycle nutrients into the soil, named in 2014 in honor of Platt, a former provide food for wildlife and stimulate commissioner and lifelong advocate for growth and seed protection of fire-de- environmental protection. pendent plants. For more information on the April 20 According to county officials, Perry board meeting, visit www.HCFLGov.net.
June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
YOUNG VALRICO RESIDENT SINGS NATIONAL ANTHEM AT A MIAMI MARLINS GAME
By Kathy L. Collins
Valrico resident Pranysqa Mishra recently received an imitation to sing the national anthem before a large stadium crowd at a Miami Marlins baseball game. Following her rendition, Mishra was greeted by the Miami Marlins manager, Don Mattingly.
Seven-year-old Pranysqa Mishra recently sang the national anthem at a recent Miami Marlins baseball game. While this would make most adults quake in their boots, Mishra is already an old hand at singing in front of large crowds. The Valrico resident won a contest and was selected to sing the national anthem at an NBA game for the Washington Wizards. Then, she received an invitation from the LA Lakers and also sang virtually for Miami Marlins during COVID-19. According to Mishra’s mother, Priya, “The Marlins liked her so much that she got an invitation this year to sing in person.” Priya added, “Pranysqa was super excited and very happy to perform.” Priya said, “She had a fun time. After
her performance, player Jazz Chisolm and Marlins Manager Dan Mattingly personally came to congratulate her, stating it was an amazing rendition. She also had a fan moment—spectators were applauding her and taking pictures. Her voice was compared with the legendary singer Céline Dion.” According to her mom, Mishra was not nervous. In fact, she was excited and very happy to perform. Priya said, “Pranysqa wants to make her community proud, and she will continue to sing the national anthem to show her love for the United States and for veterans. She wants to share her voice with the whole world.” In her spare time, Mishra loves to draw and compose music using different software on the computer. According to her mom, she is a very clean and tidy person. In her free time, she loves to play with her baby sister. Mishra’s in the second grade. Her family recently relocated to the Valrico area from Canada. She will attend Lithia Springs Elementary School. Her favorite subjects in school are music and science. Mishra started singing at the age of 2. She started taking singing lessons when she was 7 years old from a private tutor in Atlanta. When she grows up, Mishra wants to be a pop singer and music composer.
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VILLAGE INN RIVERVIEW & BRANDON FRANCHISE WINS AWARD
By Sharon Still
Famous HospiDean LaFollette tality Inc. recentstated, “Our vily awarded the sion is simply area’s Village Inn this: to take care franchise owners of our guests its prestigious and our team by Franchisee of the delivering the Year award. The Lehan Village Inn franchise consists of six Village Inn Breakfast all day long is what made Village Inn famous. restaurants in the Greater Tampa area, including those in best family Brandon and Riverview, which Danny Le- dining exhan purchased in 2020. perience so Village Inn Pancake first opened its that each individual leaves with a sense doors in Denver, Colorado in 1958 and of well-being and satisfaction with our has been a fixture in the Brandon area great value.” for more than 40 years. With six deRaising Forks for Funds offers organicades of success, Village Inn has corpo- zations a chance to partner with Village rate and franchise restaurants totaling Inn to raise funds for its cause. Organimore than 200, located primarily in the zations are able to keep 20 percent of Rocky Mountain region, the Midwest, event sales. Village Inn partners with Arizona and Florida. different types of organizations, includVillage Inn is known for its made- ing 501(c)(3) nonprofits, teams, schools, from-scratch buttermilk pancakes, fresh university groups and community orgaeggs cooked in any style, sizzling bacon nizations. “Village Inn’s heritage is built and pots of steaming hot coffee—quali- on being active in the community,” Lety breakfast all day long. han said. The restaurant’s award-winning pies The Brandon restaurant is located like French silk, country apple and car- at 1995 W. Lumsden Rd. and can be amel pecan silk supreme are always reached at 813-657-7382. The Riverview a hit at holidays or any day, especially Village Inn, located at 10293 Big Bend Wednesdays, when guests enjoy a free Rd., can be reached at 813-741-3200. slice of pie with a required purchase. The restaurants are open seven days a The menu at Village Inn is not only week from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. and are also breakfast, as other options include fresh, open on Thanksgiving and Christmas never-frozen juicy burgers, freshly made Day. Choose dine-in, takeout or delivery, salads, all-American sandwiches and or try the drive-through at the Riverclassic dinners like chicken-fried steak view location. Orders are also accepted and pot roast. online. For more information, visit www. Director of Operations for Village Inn villageinn.com.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2022
WEDDING DRESS GIVEAWAY DONATES TO 25 LOCAL TEACHERS
By Lily Belcher
works in the district,” said Courtney. “… We need this after a really u n p re c e d e n t e d two years in education. Something like this creates such synergy and energy for our district.” One bride and teacher at King Teachers of Hillsborough County received free wedding dresses in giveaway High School from Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique. shared that she and her fiancé Satin & Lace Bridal Boutique hosted its second wedding dress giveaway at The have been together for over 15 years but Regent on Monday of Teacher Apprecia- have never had the opportunity to fortion Week at the beginning of May to rec- mally get married. When she received the ognize the soon-to-be brides of Hillsbor- email saying she won a free wedding dress, she dismissed it as junk mail because she ough County. After being nominated by peers, friends didn’t think she would actually win when and even fiancés, 25 teachers were select- she had filled out the application. “It means a lot,” she said. “I’ve never ed to receive a wedding dress donated by Satin & Lace. The giveaway not only re- won anything to this manner, and that’s lieved some of the financial burden of a why I was kind of shocked.” Local vendors, such as Sugar Lees wedding but also gave the teachers the recognition they deserve for their dedi- Gourmet Coffee Service, 3 C’s Catering cation to their jobs despite the lingering and Care Package Meal Prep Co., provided food and drinks for the brides and their challenges of the coronavirus. Shannon Keil reached out to AnnMa- guests. Precious Plunders supplied crowns rie Courtney, director of partnership en- that could be worn as accessories for the gagement for the school district, to see wedding and Publix Bakery distributed if Hillsborough County teachers would be cake to the attendees following the dininteresting in being the recipients of the ner. At the event, the brides picked up the wedding dresses. Her response was “Of course!” The brides were nominated and dresses they had selected and been fitselected after sharing their love stories ted for prior to the dinner during Teacher Appreciation Week. They had the opporthrough an essay. “It was wonderful to see so many col- tunity to share their stories, thank those leagues nominate their fellow teachers that nominated them and talk about their and secretaries, and really anyone who upcoming weddings.
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WINE BAR OFFERS 200 WINES BY THE GLASS AND MORE By Kate Quesada Are you looking for a knowledge.” special place in Apollo The wine bar offers Beach for a date night weekly wine education or fun evening with nights on Tuesdays at friends? Apollo Beach 7 p.m. and hosts a wine Society Wine Bar, the club the first Tuesday ultimate destination of each month. There for wine lovers, is the are also monthly speone-of-a-kind answer cial tasting events and to your search. With live music on Fridays, Owned by Michael and Tura Alfano, 200 wines by the Saturdays and some Apollo Beach Society Wine Bar offers glass, small plates and Thursdays from 6-9 100 craft beers, it has more than 200 wines in a one-of-a-kind p.m. environment. something for every Food offerings intaste. clude small plates, Owners Michael and charcuterie boards, Tura Alfano have lived paninis and flatbread in Apollo Beach for six pizzas. years and opened SociBeer lovers, fear not, ety Wine Bar in Octoas the wine bar also ofber 2021. fers more than 100 dif“This is our dream, ferent bottles of craft and we are so hapbeers. py to be able to serve Among the many the Apollo Beach and special events hostSouthShore area,” said ed at the wine bar is Michael. a Spring Fling Sip & The wine bar ofShop event on Sunday, fers many wines by May 15. The event will the glass and the botoffer more than 75 tle and varieties were wines with food and handpicked by experts cheese pairings. Tickwith many choices at ets are $75. different price points. Apollo Beach SociThere are also personal ety Wine Bar is located sommeliers on staff to guide customers to at 238 Harbor Village Ln. in Apollo Beach find the perfect choice for their palettes. and can be reached at 813-331-3907. Its When asked if any of the wine bar’s of- hours are Monday through Thursday, 4-10 ferings stand out, Michael answered, “We p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 12 Noon-11 p.m.; have so many different varietals, they are and Sunday, 12 Noon-8 p.m. For more inall special in their own way. We offer a va- formation, visit www.apollobeachwinebar. riety to help people expand their taste and com.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6
WEST FLORIDA FLAMES 15U GIRLS SOCCER TEAM EARNS NATIONALS APPEARANCE The 15U West Florida Flames girls soccer team is one of 16 teams in the country to qualify for the national playoffs in Dallas this June. This is the first time that the club has earned a bid to nationals. Head coach Peter Gutsche said that the team’s chemistry and camaraderie are huge reasons for its success. “The girls are very supportive of one another, and they work extremely hard in every game,” he said. “That’s the one thing that to me stands out, is that they work extremely hard and are together as a team.” Since February 26, the team, which is a part of the Developmental Player League, has gone on a run of six wins, one loss and one tie, scoring 21 goals and conceding only 10 over those eight games. The 15U club is a combination of players from the West Florida Flames and Tampa Dynamo organizations and consists of high school and middle school students from all over Photo courtesy of Gina Traxler. the county. Schools represented include The 15U West Florida Flames girls soccer team is one of 16 teams in the country Newsome, Lennard, Armwood, Bell to qualify for the national playoffs in Dallas this June. Players on the roster include Creek Academy, Bloomingdale, Spoto, RivLori Rosenau, Gabrielle Flores, Ana McMahon, Olivia Scott, Avery Haddon, Julianna erview and Mulrennan, to name a few. The Grossglass, Ryleigh Marcum, Lily Scott, Avery Grady, Laura Brucato, Gabriela Mosenior club team has competed in several rales, Sanai Ames, Kapustiak, Gabrielle Yang, Avery Michiels, Kayleigh Belton, Zana showcases throughout the state this year Anderson and Nevaeh Tran. in order to get their players seen in front of college coaches. as a team,” said midfielder/forward Addi- accomplishments. My most memorable “My favorite part of playing on this team son Kapustiak. “This year, we have grown moments from this season are playing with is that everyone works together and plays so much, and we celebrate each other’s this team and building my confidence as
a player, especially with a coach who reminds us all of our worth on the team.” Players on the roster include Lori Rosenau, Gabrielle Flores, Ana McMahon, Olivia Scott, Avery Haddon, Julianna Grossglass, Ryleigh Marcum, Lily Scott, Avery Grady, Laura Brucato, Gabriela Morales, Sanai Ames, Kapustiak, Gabrielle Yang, Avery Michiels, Kayleigh Belton, Zana Anderson and Nevaeh Tran. “Being a brand-new team, we have grown so much from the start of the season,” said midfielder/forward Grady. “Getting into nationals was a huge accomplishment, and we couldn’t have done it without the help of our coach pushing us to be our best all season. Our hard work has paid off, and whether or not we win nationals, we are proud of our accomplishments.” The team has aspirations of winning the club’s first national championship and, of course, having fun and making memories along the way. The tournament occurs from Tuesday through Sunday, June 21-26. They play in a Memorial Day weekend tournament three weeks before nationals as a tune-up. “My goals for nationals are to go and give it my all and to have fun and make memories with my teammates,” said Kapustiak. “As for our team goals, we want to go and show everyone that we worked hard all year and that we deserve to be there.”
June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 33
AIRLIFE/BAYFLIGHT VISITS HCC PARAMEDIC STUDENTS By Kate Quesada
finders or maps to locate ARS, American red some good ledges in that snapper, will be the hot range. While on the locatopic in the offshore arena for the next month. Gag tions, look to large towgrouper will also open this ers of baitfish and chum month, and both target heavily. Use big chunks of feed for excellent table cut bait, threadfins, pinfare. fish, greenbacks and any Billy Nobles is a local other type of baitfish you captain in Apollo Beach can get for both the chum area who targets these Tysa Dawn found this great black- and the hooked bait. Use fish constantly. He has in- fin tuna with captain Billy Nobles. a knocker rug setup with weight enough to get vested many, many years down and hook with a bigin perfecting his approach to catching these fish. Hit ger gap than the diameter him up for a charter and of the weight. you will not be disappointNobles is a regular out there in the deep waters ed. These are some of his of the gulf and recomtechniques. Gag grouper can be mends to always keep a found up around rock flatline with a live bait structures and reefs. They out behind the boat. You react well with chumming Amy and Chris Nichols with an never know what you may in many of these areas, American red grouper with cap- find in the open waters. tain Billy Nobles. and large pinfish, threadHe regularly catches ARS, fins and greenbacks are the bait choices this yellowtail snapper, grouper (both red and time of year. A 5/0 to 7/0 may be the hook gag), mangrove snapper and blackfin tuna. size you want, and remember, circle hooks Occasionally, a sailfish or mahi-mahi will are required for reef fishing. You can use a come join the party. If you make a trip on 60# to 100# main line with 100# leader on your own, please remember to make a float a stout rod and a 6000 series reel. You’re plan so people at home know where you are going to need a setup with some backbone headed and have an approximate time of reto it to move these fish up out of their hide- turn. Taking two boats is always safer and a lot of fun. aways. You can reach Nobles at 813-299-5563 ARS will hold up in deep water in upwards of 160 feet and 60 miles out. Do or find him on Facebook at Billy Nobles. You some homework and survey your depth will not be disappointed.
A group of stuFire Rescue, the dents at Hillsborflight team from ough Community AirLife/BayFlight College’s (HCC) landed their aircraft SouthShore camadjacent to the HCC pus were able to SouthShore camsee up-close what pus. happens in a mediIn addition, cal emergency last the fire company month when the demonstrated landschool worked in ing zone safety and conjunction with the flight team exHillsborough Coun- Students at HCC’s SouthShore campus were visited plained their role in ty and brought an by an AirLife/BayFlight aircraft last month as part patient care. of the EMS program. AirLife/BayFlight “The demonstraaircraft to the field tion concluded with adjacent to the a tour of the aircraft school’s science and a question/anbuilding. swer period,” said According to Linder. professor LawAlso included rence Linder from in the event was the EMS Programs a team of rescuFaculty, the Nationers from Manatee al EMS Education County Search Standards were & Rescue, which revised in 2021 and brought their resnow require that schools work cue unit and explained how with state and local agencies they would coordinate with the to provide the students with flight team during a search and the knowledge to work safely rescue operation. around a landing zone during “It is our hope that the resan air medical operation. cue teams will be a part of “This includes the proper our ongoing commitment to treatment of the patient and the interac- providing our students with an excellent tion with the air medical personal who will clinical and educational experience,” said then transport the patient to the trauma Linder. center,” he explained. “What better way Hillsborough Community College’s to learn than to land an aircraft and have SouthShore campus is located at 551 the students explore the interworking of 24th St. NE in Ruskin and can be reached safety and advanced patient care?” at 813-253-7000. For more information, With the help of Hillsborough County visit www.hccfl.edu.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
June 2022
SUMMER CLASSICS MOVIE SERIES RETURNS TO TAMPA THEATRE
EXPLORE
‘CUBAN PATHWAYS’ AT HISTORY CENTER
The newest traveling exhibit at the Tampa Bay History Center is Cuban Pathways, which explores 500 years of history. The exhibit is available for viewing through February 2023.
The newest traveling exhibit at the Tampa Bay History Center, located at 801 Water St. in downtown Tampa, is titled ‘Cuban Pathways.’ The exhibit chronicles over 500 years of history from three paths: African, Chinese and Spanish. It is truly an amazing exhibit. The oldest artifact is a Peter Martyr map from 1511 which identifies the island of Cuba. The exhibit also contains a chug boat, which is a little, handmade open vessel powered by a small diesel engine. The boat in the exhibit was used in 2021 by 12 Cubans to cross the Florida Straits. This is the first traveling exhibit produced exclusively by the Tampa Bay History Center. Dr. Brad Massey, Saunders Foundation Curator of Public History for the Tampa
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Bay History Center, said, “This is a very ambitious exhibit as it tells 500 years of history in 2,000 square feet. It chronicles diverse groups of people who came to Cuba.” Massey added, “Cuba was the Caribbean hub of the modern Atlantic World and home to a diverse population.” In the exhibit, you will see a receipt for an enslaved person and transfer papers for Matilda, a Creole being transferred as property. Another interesting item is a painting. The subject is not what is of interest; rather, it is the painter, Vincente Escobar, a free black painter that makes the painting interesting. According to Massey, 20 percent of the population was free black people. There are artifacts related to the long ties Tampa has had with the island of Cuba, there are military artifacts and there is even a giant View-Master that shows Cuba when it was the number one foreign destination for 50 years until Fidel Castro took over in 1959. You will see an interesting group of items telling the story of China’s connection to Cuba. The collection occupies more than 2,000 square space of gallery space and will be available for viewing through February 2023. Cuban Pathways will then travel the Southeastern United States. For more information on this exhibit and all of the other exhibits at the Tampa Bay History Center, please visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org or call 228-0097.
Tampa Theatre classic and regularly will present its shows up on lists of popular Summer the best films ever Classics Movie Semade. You can see ries on Sundays at Pulp Fiction on July 3 p.m. beginning on 10. June 5 and ending Another film that on August 28. Come celebrate a century of extraordinary film- was selected at the Jill Witecki making by seeing some of your favorite classics March fundraiser, this on the big screen at Tampa Theatre during its with Tampa Theone by Nick Buchanan, Summer Classics Movie Series presented on atre said, “Tampa is The Wizard of Oz. Sundays from June 5 through August 28. film fans know This delightful 1939 that when it comes to beloved classics, film will be shown on July 17. there is no more authentic way to watch Next, you can see Alfred Hitchcock’s them than in a majestic movie palace.” 1954 mystery thriller, Rear Window, on Witecki added, “For more than 30 years, July 24. the community has flocked to Tampa TheWho doesn’t love the 1972 hit The Godatre on hot Sunday afternoons to enjoy father? This is your chance to see Marlon Summer Classics as they were meant to be Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan and Robert seen.” Duvall together on the big screen. Enjoy it First up, come enjoy a sing-along of the on July 31. 1961 hit musical West Side Story. This will The Western comedy Blazing Saddles be shown on June 5. will be shown on August 7. Tampa Theatre will present the 1977 After that, the musical drama All That sci-fi thriller Star Wars: Episode IV-A New Jazz will hit the big screen on August 14. Hope on June 12. Casablanca gets a special presentation Celebrate Father’s Day with a showing of with two showings. The first is on SaturIn the Heat of the Night on June 19. day, August 20 at 7:30 p.m. and then again On June 26, come see the 1964 war on August 21. thriller Fail Safe. This film was chosen by Share a unique experience of seeing and Tampa Theatre donor Ed Golly, who won hearing the scent films One Week and The the opportunity to ‘Pick a Classic’ at Tampa Camerman on August 28. Both films will be Theatre’s WineFest fundraiser in March. accompanied live on the Mighty Wurlitzer On July 3, make plans to see Stand by Theatre Organ. Me. For ticket prices and to purchase tickets, Pulp Fiction is considered a ‘modern’ please visit www.tampatheatre.org. Private Charters: 4 hour, 6 hour, 8 hour & 2.5 hour Sunset Cruises. Cruising the Alafia River and Tampa Bay.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6
June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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FLORIDA ORCHESTRA ANNOUNCES SEASON MASTERWORKS SERIES Staff Report Music lovers, mark your calendars. The Florida Orchestra (TFO) will launch its 2022-23 Hough Family Foundation Masterworks series in October with the powerful drama of Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, conducted by internationally acclaimed Music Director Michael Francis in venues throughout Tampa Bay. Big moments in TFO’s 55th season include a mini festival of Rachmaninoff’s Second and Third Piano Concertos; a world-premiere violin concerto composed by Tampa native Michael Ippolito for TFO Concertmaster Jeffrey Multer; great classics such as Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (Pastoral), and Mahler’s Symphony No. 4; and a once-in-a-lifetime performance of Wagner’s The Ring Without Words. “We can’t think of a more stirring and sensational way to start the season than the extraordinary spectacle that is the iconic Carmina Burana,” said Francis, who will enter his eighth season with TFO. “There’s nothing like the sheer joy of listening together in the concert hall, and this season we’ll bring some of the most spellbinding sonic experiences ever. We’ll give new life to beloved classics, debut inspiring new works and perform a variety of composers that reflect the different cultures and influences that make up our Tampa Bay community. At the heart of it all are the brilliant Florida Orchestra musicians, whom we will feature throughout the season, as well as world-class soloists.” The Florida Orchestra will start off the new season with a new title sponsor, the Hough Family Foundation, for its premier classical Masterworks series. This con-
The Florida Orchestra recently announced dates for the 2022-23 season.
tinues the Hough family’s philanthropic legacy and solidifies a meaningful partnership that generously supports TFO’s core mission of bringing epic masterpieces that inspire, unite and educate at the highest levels of excellence under the leadership of Maestro Francis. TFO’S premier Raymond James Pop Series showcases a variety of Broadway,
movie and popular music. It opens with Hollywood Sings (Friday and Saturday, October 14 and 15) with movie music from Frozen, The Wizard of Oz, La La Land and more and pits the Wizarding World against The Empire in Harry Potter vs Star Wars (March 18 and 19, 2023) with music by John Williams, Patrick Doyle and more. “Our Pop series brings fun, familiar
music that’s also the heart and soul of our favorite movies and beyond. This music transports us to a special time and place in our lives like nothing else can. Listening to it live with the power of The Florida Orchestra makes all the difference,” said TFO President and CEO Mark Cantrell. In Jeans ‘n Classics Presents Abbey Road (February 4, 2023), TFO will perform the famed Beatles album in its entirety, featuring “Come Together,” “Here Comes the Sun” and more. It will be conducted by TFO’s new assistant conductor, Chelsea Gallo. The Light Favorites Morning Coffee Series, led by Principal Guest Conductor Stuart Malina, includes Poetry in Music (Thursday, October 27) with lyrical works by Debussy, William Grant Still and more; Best of Ballet (Thursday, December 15), which includes Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker; Arabian Fantasy (Saturday, November 17); Spring in Paris (April 12 and 13, 2023); and Divine Inspiration (March 15 and 16, 2023). The nine-concert series at the Mahaffey Theater and the five-concert series at Ruth Eckerd Hall come with a dollop of humor and a Pre-concert Conversation, starting one hour before the performance. For community concerts in the fall, the orchestra will perform the free Pops in the Park concert in Vinoy Park in St. Petersburg and is planning a wide variety of community partnerships for the 2022-23 season. A full schedule of TFO’s community concerts, such as Inside the Music, Sing Out Tampa Bay, full-orchestra Family Concerts and more, will be released over the summer. To learn more, visit www.floridaorchestra.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
NEW WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS TO LINK HIGH SCHOOL STUDIES TO CONSTRUCTION, HEALTH CARE EMPLOYMENT
By Linda Chion
As the Greater excavating, framing/ Tampa Bay area drywall, masonry, market explodes, modeling, profeswith scores of folks sionalism in the making their home workplace, solar in southeastern Hillpower, water infrasborough County, structure/treatment the need to ensure and AC refrigeration an able and steady and heating technolworkforce to fill ogy (HVAC). high-demand jobs in Dramatic job Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County Public Schools.growth in the conhealth care and construction continues to A still shot from the March 28 “In-Depth with struction and medical Davis Workforce Development Programs” episode swell as well. fields is a sure bet in featuring Addison Davis, superintendent of HillsToward that end, Hillsborough County borough County Public Schools, and Kim Bays, the Hillsborough County and beyond. school district’s chief of innovation. School District offiAccording to Sucials have announced plans to create two perintendent Addison Davis, “Florida’s prinew high school programs and a technical vate sector employment has increased by college, all dedicated to their respective ar- 470,000, or 6.7 percent, over the past year” eas of workforce development. alone. The two industries that have gained Expected for a 2023-24 school year open- the most jobs are construction and health ing are a medical academy at D.W. Waters care, Davis said in his March 28 In-Depth in Tampa and a construction academy at with Davis episode. Bowers/Whitley in Tampa, both for students Kim Bays, the school district’s chief of inin grades 9-12. The phase three effort calls novation, noted in the same segment that for post-graduation studies at the upcoming “without a doubt” the medical and conBrewster Medical Technical College in Tam- struction industries will lead the pack in job pa. opportunities. “We expect that by the year Courses of study at the upcoming medi- 2029, there will be 116,000 job opportunical academy, developed in partnership with ties in the medical industry and 51,000 job medical organizations and businesses, are to opportunities in the construction industry,” include training and certification for home Bays said. “So, it’s incumbent on us to prehealth aides, medical laboratory assisting, pare students for those two industries.” EKG aides/technicians and allied health asSchool officials said to expect “a marketsisting. ing blitz” over the summer months related The 15 programs of study planned for the to the new high school programs. construction academy involve building conFor more, view “In-Depth with Davis struction, electricity, plumbing, augmented Workforce Development Programs” on Youreality/visualization, electric vehicles, ener- Tube at www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjEoggy and environmental design, estimating, WfnfZ4.
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Volume 21, Issue 6
THE TAMPA BAY SUMMER RV SHOW OFFERS EVERYTHING IN ONE LOCATION By Sharon Still From seasoned People new RVers to those to RVing will be who have never amazed at the constepped foot in a veniences and techrecreational vehinological advances cle (RV), there is an RV can offer sure to be somethese days. Stanthing for everyone dard features may at the Florida RV include USB ports, Trade Association’s Wi-Fi hotspots, upcoming Tampa tablet holders in Bay Summer RV There is plenty to see at the upcoming Tampa Bay the bunk beds and Show. Scheduled remote-control opSummer RV Show. for Thursday to eration of various Sunday, June 9-12 at the Florifeatures. Many RVs are also da State Fairgrounds, the event designed for luxury, as they are will showcase many different constructed with handcrafted brands, models and floor plans cabinetry, fireplaces, elaborate of RVs as well as feature vendor entertainment systems, wine booths offering everything from chillers and more. When it comes RV windshield repair to decorato comfort, some RV floor plans tive items and spill-proof dog bowls. There offer king, Sleep Number or memory foam also will be a DJ, face painting and other beds; recliners; air ride driver and passenactivities for the kids. ger seats; and much more. More people than ever are enjoying the Admission is $5 per adult; children ages RV lifestyle. According to Go RVing’s re- 16 and under are free. Military and first cent RV Owner Demographic Profile, the responders will receive $1 off the price of most comprehensive study of RV owner- admission for all days of the show and seship ever conducted, RV ownership has niors will receive a $1 discount on Thursincreased more than 62 percent in the last day, June 9. Upon entering, attendees can 20 years with a record 11.2 million house- sign up for door prizes; a $100 American holds owning an RV. Additionally, a stag- Express gift card will be awarded to an atgering 9.6 million households intend to buy tendee each day of the show. an RV in the next five years. Show hours are June 9-11, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., At the Tampa Bay Summer RV Show, RV and Sunday, June 12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Leashed dealerships will be there displaying new pets are welcome. motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels The Florida State Fairground is located and other types of RVs, all in one location. at 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. For further deGuests can tour the RVs and salespeople tails, visit www.frvta.org or call 813-741will be on hand to answer any questions. 0488.
June 2022
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BLOOMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS VOLUNTEER TO CLEAN UP SALADINO DOG PARK
THE CHILDREN’S DREAM FUND TREATS KEYLA MARTINEZ TO HER DREAM SHOPPING SPREE
By Lily Belcher
munity because it does so much for us, so this is the least we can do to give back,” said Hirji. “Things like this are what keep the community strong.” The Saladino Dog Park cleanup was the first one Hirji’s group had done at that park, but they have participated in other community cleanups throughout the year. They have cleaned up school parking lots, churches and roadsides to further beautify their local environment. The 2.6-acre park was opened in 2018 Bloomingdale High School stufor families to bring dent volunteers cleaned benchtheir dogs. It is free es and other areas around the for guests to enBertha and Tony Saladino Dog joy the open area Park at the end of April. with benches and On April 30, senior Noah water fountains Hirji and his fellow Bloomingfor the pet owners. dale High School students The land is separathosted a park cleanup at ed for larger and the Bertha and Tony Saladismaller dogs and no Dog Park off Bryan Rd. has covered areas Bloomingdale High School students in Brandon. Student volun- cleared the turf of leaves and garbage with picnic tables teers from Bloomingdale’s while cleaning up the Bertha and Tony in each part. Since Advancement Via Individual the dog park is nonSaladino Dog Park on Bryan Rds. Determination (AVID) met staffed, it relies on at the dog park to complete the communi- the generosity of students and volunteers ty service project assignment by their AVID who donate their time and materials to teacher, Jacquelyn Marshall. cleaning up the area so visitors can continue “We chose [the Saladino Dog Park] be- to use the area. cause all of us in the team are pet-friendly,” “My family and I are very appreciative said Hirji. “We all take our dogs there from of the Bloomingdale High School students time to time. We thought it was due for a cleaning up the Saladino Dog Park,” said cleaning, so we got to work.” Tony Saladino. “It’s a good feeling to have The cleanup lasted for three hours, as community assistance at the park, and we the group of AVID students cleaned bench- feel that the patrons and the dogs that ates, blowed leaves off the turf and pressure tend the park are appreciative also.” washed the sidewalks. For information, visit hillsboroughcounty. “It is important to be involved in the com- org or contact 813-744-5978.
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By Lily Belcher
Keyla Martinez was treated to a VIP shopping trip by Children’s Dream Fund.
On April 20, Keyla Martinez was treated to a VIP shopping trip at the Westfield Brandon mall by the Children’s Dream Fund. Keyla was diagnosed with lymphoma and has finished treatments, just in time for her to partake in her shopping dream. Martinez and her family arrived at the mall in style with a limousine ride from her house and signs and gift bags welcoming Martinez before she began shopping. She was treated to special dressing rooms and escorted to her favorite stores, where staff went all out to invite her on her VIP shopping spree. “Keyla likes YouTube, and she sees shopping sprees. She always wanted to go on one,” said mother Maria Martinez. “She also loves fashion and accessories. She’s definitely a girly girl.” Martinez shopped with her mother, aunt, older brother and younger sister and
received a special lunch before doing more shopping. The 10-year-old has been battling lymphoma at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and her social worker, Leah Wimberly, referred her to the Children’s Dream Fund. “She is a really great example of embracing changes life brings and moving forward. I was reminded how resilient we all are—not just children but parents too,” said Children’s Dream Fund marketing specialist Lisa Halter. “And Keyla’s excitement while anticipating her Dream has brought joy to us as we plan, and yet another reminder of the positive impact a dream come true has on a child’s life.” Halter explained that Martinez’s formerly long, curly hair has grown back straight following treatments. Prior to her diagnosis, Martinez never wanted to get a haircut so she could look like Rapunzel, but she has embraced the change and was looking forward to shopping for new accessories, especially for her hair. The Children’s Dream Fund is a nonprofit organization that has given over 3,000 pediatric patients their dreams for over 40 years. It serves 3 to 21-year-olds in West Central Florida suffering from life-threatening illnesses and works to give them their unique dreams. “Every child deserves hope and a dream,” as said by the website, “and our goal is to continue to make those dreams come true.” For more information on the Children’s Dream Fund, visit childrensdreamfund.org or contact Halter at lhalter@childrensdreamfund.org or 727-896-6390.
CAC1820162
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 21, Issue 6