Osprey Observer 2017-1 Riverview/Apollo Beach by Osprey Observer

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January 2017 Volume 15, Issue 1 Ph: 657-2418 C E L E B R A T I N G

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Y E A R S

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P U B L I S H I N G

P O S I T I V E

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

Goodrich Riverview 14 GDX Poised For February Opening Of Movie Theatre & Pub

Local Bikers Gear Up For Annual Gibtown Bikefest Motorcycle Rally

ety of special amenities. “We are extremely grateful for the very positive response that we are receiving from Riverview and surrounding Grand Rapids, areas,” he Michigan-based, said. “No Goodrich Quality doubt, the Theaters, (GQT) Inc., had fantastic hoped to open the doors welcome to the organization’s first from across theater in Florida in time the Tampa for the 2016 holiday seaBay comson, but according to munity Chief Operation Officer Goodrich Quality Theaters, (GQT) Inc., Martin Betz, a little delay announced the opening of its much anticipated demonwas necessary for a very Riverview 14 GDX Theater in early February. strates its The theater is promising guests a luxury cine- excitement. good reason. ma experience including an original restaurant Our entire “We are bringing concept serving fresh, prepared to order dishes organizaand beverages. something special to tion is commovie goers and while mitted to bringing movie-lovers of all ages missing the holidays is unfortunate, we the very best theater entertainment with want to be as compelling as we can on opening day,” Betz said. “We did not want unmatched value, unique food and beverage offerings and an outstanding to rush the project.” With only a few minor finishing touch- Rewards Program.” Building on the organization’s 75es left to complete the theater, which will year experience, Riverview 14 “GDX” is create nearly 100 jobs when open, GQT boasting of Goodrich’s cutting-edge large announced the scheduled opening of format auditoriums including its two 70 ft. Riverview 14 GDX (Giant Digital wide and 40 ft. tall screens projected in Experience), a 66,000 sq. ft. state-of-theart theater multiplex in Riverview, for early 4K digital, showcasing floor-to-ceiling viewing powered by Premium Dolby February 2017. ATMOS sound system making movieLocated at the southwest corner of Igoers “feel” the action. 75 and Gibsonton Dr., just east of the “The walls between every auditorium Super Walmart (exit 250) the theater is promising its guests an unmatched luxury are IMAX rated to ensure no sound will cinema experience filled with a wide variContinued on page 20

as to make Considered arrangements by many, as one for the next. of Florida’s most One of entertaining bikethe IISA’s fests, 2017 Annual newest projGibtown ects was the Motorcycle completion of Rally is just the around the corner. Showmen’s Proudly preMuseum, a sented by the large free Fran Haasch Law Group, the familyoriented event is Biker and motorcycle enthusiasts enjoy the day during last year’s annuguaranteed to al Gibtown Bikefest at the IISA Club draw a large Grounds in Riverview. crowd, with plenty standing building, boasting of historical of room for thousands of bikes. artifacts, photos, while large advertising The festivities are scheduled to kickoff on Friday, January 13 and run through banners depict the evolution of the outdoor amusement industry. Bikefest visiSunday, January 15, at the five-acre tors are encouraged to stop by the International Independent Showmen’s museum and walk through the history Association (IISA) Club Grounds, 6915 of days gone by. Riverview Dr. in Riverview. With a long history under its belt, Also known as the Showman’s the Showmen’s Bikefest has become a Bikefest, the free event will feature free major Florida event ensuring organizparking and free live entertainment with ers’ confidence in its current and conbands to include Greg Billings, Marshall tinued success. For information visit, Tucker, Black Honkeys, Randy McNeely, Blackwater Jack, Big Engine just to name www.gibtownmotorcyclerally.com. a few. Stunt shows, food and beverage vendors, and merchandise vendors are promising to keep all visitors entertained. In This “This is our 12th season in a row, Issue and we are expecting up to 30,000 visitors for the duration of the event, which will officially begins on Friday afternoon at NON‐PROFIT SCHOOL ........................PG 3 3 p.m.,” said vendor coordinator Craig Fletcher. WINTER JAM......................................PG 7 Fletcher added that last year the COURTESY SCHOOL BUSES ..............PG 10 event saw more than 40 vendors, but organizers are expecting more this year. ROAD RACE ......................................PG 12 The IISA has been an integral part of EYE ON BUSINESS ............................PG 25 the Gibsonton and Riverview area for almost 50 years and has been the perAPOLLO BEACH .........................PGS 30‐31 manent and winter home to many carniHOLISTIC HEALTH.............................PG 32 val showmen and circus performers. As the ideal location for the annual YEAR IN REVIEW .......................PGS 33‐40 event, the IISA Club grounds have become a place for those in the outdoor READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE amusement industry to come together, www.ospreyobserver.com share stories of the past seasons as well

By Tamas Mondovics

Osprey Observer 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, FL 33511-6121

Postal Customer

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PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397

By Tamas Mondovics

Photo Courtesy By Tamas Mondovics

To have a better appreciation of the County’s front line employees, Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy White assists County Fire Rescue workers during a prescribed burn Work Day last spring in the Triple Creek Preserve, which ties into the Balm Boyette Scrub Preserve in South County. The photo is a great addition to this edition’s year in review segment.

VISIT US IN BRANDON!

134 S. GORNTO LAKE ROAD

Page 2

Volume 15, Issue 1

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Specializing in Bank Owned Properites, Short Sales, and Luxury Properties.

813.760.7190

SO RIVERVIEW

APOLLO BEACH

3/2/2 with 1,497 sq feet. Summerfield home with new paint and carpet. Large Rooms, great master, great neighborhood. Offered @ $167,400

Short Sale. Lender Approved. 2/2/1199 sq. feet. Great corner lot. Homes needs a little TLC but has 18' tile, cabinet space, pantry, sliding doors, screened in patio and more! Offered @ $100,000.00

L SO

AS LE

APOLLO BEACH

RIVERVIEW

ST. PETERSBURG

Model Perfect 3/2/2 with 1,751 sq. feet. Home Features All update Stainless steel appliances, updated kitchen, painting and floors. Open floor plan, formal living, Covered Lanai, No CDD fees and Low HOA fees. Offered @ $189,000.

Tropical Oasis with 2/1.5/1 and about 1,192 sq feet. Home features Private pool, 15 minutes from beaches, lovely neighborhood, New carpet, bathroom remodeled, new a/c unit, custom tile floors, roof placed, and so much more. Offered @ $185,000.

TAMPA

Beautiful Private pool home with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms plus study all one floor with an additional second story bonus room and 3 car garage. Approx. 2,959 sq feet. Large eat in kitchen with 42" cherry wood cabinets, walk-in pantry, tile floor and stainless appliances .Oversized screened lanai. Offered at $365,000

APOLLO BEACH

RUSKIN

SUN CITY CENTER

RIVERVIEW

Beautiful corner lot with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1951 sq. feet. SS appliances, corian counter tops, espresso cabinetry, large living space, Huge master, dual sinks, and walk in closet. Offered @ $210,000

Corner Lot 2 bedrooms 1 Full bath 1,149 sq feet. Large Living, Dining and family room, air conditioned back patio. Great Community center. Offered @ $109,900

CALLING all investors for this home with 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms and approx. 1,686 sq. feet. This Home has a full kitchen with all nice appliances, a Screened in back porch, and a fenced in backyard. This Bank Owned will need a little paint and few minor touch ups and should be good to go. Offered @ $166,500.

WOW!! Great Starter Home with 3/2/2 with 1,355 sq. feet. Features Include Open Floor plan, Private back yard, Granite Counter Tops and white appliances!!! Not to mention great amenities. Offered @ $ 159,900

Discover the Team Brumbach Difference!

RUSKIN Amazing Hawks Point home. 3/2/2 with 2,051 sq. feet. So many great features, Large living/dining combo, 42in staggered cabinets, crown molding, stainless/black combo appliances, raised breakfast bar, huge master, French doors, granite counters, garden tub and so much more. Offered @ $215,000.

• Full Ser vice Proper ty Management • Shor t Sale Exper ts • Global Exposure on 450 Websites • Regional Exposure in 7 print publications • Professional V-Tours & Photos • Regional & Inter national Adver tising • Wor ld Class Staff Devoted to your Satisfaction • Exper t Negotiations • Extensive Experience with 1031 Exchanges • Relocation Cer tified & Trained

AS LE

5/4/300 sq feet 3 car garage. Upgraded kitchen, built in appliances, dining and eat in kitchen, over garage apartment, large patio and a small pool for relaxing. MUST SEE HOME!! Offered @ $400,000

Model perfect and includes one of the best lots in Waterset with deep conservation in back and no neighbor to the left of the home. 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, 3 car tandem garage with approx. 3400 sq ft. This home is a custom built Endeavor II floor plan with many great modifications. Offered at $400k

L SO

RENTER OR BUYER!! Lagoon front Home with 4/3 and 3,699 sq feet. Features include Gourmet kitchen, granite countertops, Walk in pantry, bonus room and a Personal Dock with a wonderful view. Offered @ $3,500 Rent Monthly or $600,000 Buy

APOLLO BEACH

Short Sale. Lender Approved. 4/2.5/2 with about 2,164 sq feet. Located on Conservation lot, large family room/dining room combo, spacious kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and large master. Offered @ $325,000

WIMAUMA

Banked Owned with Repairs on LAKE. 4/3/3 with 3,692 sq feet. Features are Large Kitchen, Volume ceilings, garden tub, Awesome back yard. New carpet, paint, a/c and so much more. Offered @ $349,900.

APOLLO BEACH

Beautiful Custom Built waterfront Home. 4/4/3 with 3,395 sq. feet. Features include, workshop, elevators, chiefs delight kitchen, media room, balcony with amazing view, huge showers and dual sinks, observation deck, Dock with boat slip and so much more. Offered @ $695,000.

PRE-CONSTRUCTION To be built. 3 bedrooms + 2 Full Baths & 2 Half Baths with approx. 2763 S.F. + 2 Car Secured Parking. Brisa del Mar is a Mediterranean-styled Townhome Community in the heart of Apollo Beach and steps from a Marina, Beach, and Boating.

Starting at $349,900

L SO

RIVERVIEW

SUN CITY CENTER

Bank owned! Huge 5 bedroom plus media room, 3.5 bathroom and approx 4,432 square foot home. Hardwood floors. Formal dining/living room. large living room with vaulted ceilings, built in wall settings. Private pool and patio Offered at $319,900

Custom built, 4/3/3 with Pool/spa + Out door kitchen + break taking conversation home site + electrical upgrades + formal/ dining/ and family room. This house has so much to offer!! Offered @ $400,000

L SO APOLLO BEACH

Beautiful water front home RENTAL . 4/3.5 with approx. 3,500 sq. feet. Features Include Dining/Family room combo, Breakfast bar, huge picture windows, garden rub, dual sinks and a personal dock. Offered @ $3,200 Monthly

APOLLO BEACH

Lovely 4/2.5/3 with approx. 2,519 sq. feet. This private pool on a pond home is amazing. Features include Community dock, waterfront pond, tile roof, paver driveway, interior spnaish tile, whole house water system, chiefs kitchen with upgrades, extensive landscaping and more. Offered @ $490,000.

To be built. 3 bedrooms + 2 Full Baths & 2 Half Baths with approx. 2763 S.F. + 2 Car Secured Parking. Brisa del Mar is a Mediterranean-styled Townhome Community in the heart of Apollo Beach and steps from a Marina, Beach, and Boating.

Starting at $349,900

January 2017

Page 3

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Pepin Academies Opens New Riverview Riverview Medical Offers Regenerative Facility To Serve More Students Stem Cell Treatment For Pain Relief By Michelle Caceres By Tamas Mondovics

Pepin learning and learnAcademies, the ing-related disabilinon-profit charter ties. school for stuWithin its camdents with learnpuses, Pepin curing and learningrently serves more related disabilithan 700 students ties received the from third to twelfth green light last grade and young month to comadults 18 to 22. The pletely vacate its school’s temporary temporary camRiverview campus Pepin officials are proud to open a new permanent campus in Riverview this month at 10530 Lake St pus in Riverview offering classes from grades three to 12. and move its Charles Blvd. has operation into a newly purchased and been serving nearly 200 students since renovated building nearby. 2013. The new facility will see a total of School officials were pleased to 275 students with capacity for 325 stureceive a Certificate of Occupancy for the dents including this year’s ninth and tenth school’s new 16,000 sq. ft. campus, locat- graders. ed at 9304 Camden Field in Riverview, Aside from the space for more stuwhich they said allows room for more students, the new campus includes a dents to be served by the tuition-free, library, an indoor space for physical public charter school, following the winter education, and an outdoor play area, break. The official opening date for the which the temporary building did not new Riverview campus is Monday, have. January 9. “We are thrilled to have this oppor“The new school was designed with tunity to help even more students in the the students we serve in mind, offering a Riverview community receive the spemulti-sensory environment center and cialized instruction Pepin Academies is skills lab, in addition to the nurturing known and recognized for,” Butz said. ‘whole’ child atmosphere our staff proButz spoke highly of the local comvides,” said Pepin Academies executive munity support when he said, “The dedidirector and school principal, Dr. Craig cated support from our community leadButz. ers, contractor Batson-Cook and parPepin Academies has been serving ents allowed our footprint to expand students for nearly two decades, in three through this exciting project and give schools – two in Hillsborough County and even more students with learning disone in Pasco County and are the only abilities the opportunity to be successful full-time exceptional student education in our unique learning environment.” (ESE) day schools in Florida that offer a Call 677-6700 or complete an applistandard diploma option for children with cation at www.pepinacademies.com.

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Riverview ing process and Medical owner and improving joint, tendon and ligament chiropractor Dr. functions. Steven J. Minafri, “It’s your body who has been treating patients growing new cartilage for more than 15 and this helps to years, is pleased relieve pain and to add stem-cell regain better mobility regenerative mediin your joints,” said cine to his pracMinafri. tice. The simple inoffice procedure, A medical which lasts between advancement that 10–15 minutes, is helps speed up Riverview Medical owner and chiropractor performed by injecthe healing Dr. Steven J. Minafri now offers stem-cell tion into the affected process and regenerative treatments in addition to improve patients’ area. chiropractic adjustments, injury rehabilitation and massage therapy. overall wellness, In addition to the stem-cell regenerative medicine uses the new treatment, Riverview Medical, forpower of stem cells to promote natural merly Riverview Chiropractic Center, conhealing. Regenerative treatments are tinues to offer comprehensive chiropractic aimed at reducing pain by producing new adjustments, injury rehabilitation after cartilage in areas of the body where the automobile accidents or sports injuries and massage therapy, including light, ravages of time have caused degeneradeep tissue and sports massage. tion of tissue. “This is one-stop shopping for all This cost-effective treatment is an healthcare needs from your necks and alternative to traditional orthopedic surback to joint pain and rehabilitative servicgery that include long recuperation and es,” said Minafri. rehabilitation periods. It is an excellent alternative for conditions ranging from soft Riverview Medical’s office hours are tissue injuries to various joint affliction, Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:30 such as a torn meniscus or arthritis of the a.m.–7 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday joint. 8:30 a.m. – 12 Noon. The practice Minafri has performed this procedure accepts some insurance providers and on patients’ knees and hips and found it offer cash programs and financing for to be successful. Potential benefits patients without insurance. For informainclude promoting and releasing natural tion on Riverview Medical, visit regenerative growth factors, ant-inflamwww.riverviewchiropracticcenter.com. To matory agents to aid and speed the healschedule a consultation, call 677-2700.

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Page 4

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 1

Too Blessed to be Stressed: Inspiration for Every Day Is Released Just In Time For The New Year

By Amanda Boston

Local author Debora Coty is The reluca household name for the avid tant writer terChristian Voice reader. In her colminated her umn Grace Notes, using a few time-out, buckhundred words, she creates biteled down, and sized morsels of wisdom by mixcompleted the ing biblical truths with real-life manuscript of anecdotes flavored with humor 365 devotions. and wit. In Coty’s best-selling Too Blessed to manuscript, Too Blessed to be be Stressed: Stressed, she Inspiration for likewise comEvery Day is municates her available for distinctive purchase on humor-filled January 1, Debora Coty shares practical insights. In rapid in print both tips on handling stress in her new devotional, Too Blessed and e-versuccession, the to be Stressed: Inspiration for sions. With book has Every Day evolved into its cleverly and own series spawning cookbooks, daily comically crafted daily devotional mesplanners, journals, and more. sages, the book tackles everyday life topWith the success of her writing, Coty ics such as relationships, love, hope, retired from her full-time career as an boundaries, brokenness, and praise. She Occupational Therapist of 36 years. She offers stress-managing advice rooted in put her feet up, drew in a deep breath, sound biblical principles and practicality. and relaxed. Nonetheless, immediately Coty admitted, “I used to be a ball of after announcing her respite, Barbour stress. I am sharing a better way. You Publishing began beckoning Coty to con- don’t have to accept a crazy-busy life.” In tinue the well-liked series with a compleher text, she leads her readers to discovmentary 365-day devotional. er peace amid the chaos through knowCoty responded, “No, no, absolutely ing, loving, and depending on the not. I’m kicking my feet up and taking Almighty Papa God. time to think a little.” Even more so, she Coty and her husband reside in the deemed the undertaking as daunting and Seffner area. She has authored 14 books admitted, “I was overwhelmed at the and internationally published over 130 thought of coming up with 365 topics and articles. In addition to writing, she is an 365 accompanying Scriptures within a six inspirational speaker and Blogger. For month timeframe. But Papa God kept giv- more information on how to connect with ing me the Holy elbow, and I signed the Coty or to purchase her books, please contract.” visit www.deboracoty.com.

COMING SOON!

T Marie's Valrico Sunday Market

Every Sunday from 10am - 3pm Starting Sunday, January 15th, 2017 Looking for Artisans and Vendors Please contact us at (813) 530-0922 for more information and availability. Applications Available In Store Reserve your space TODAY! Spots are filling up fast! The Market will be behind T Marie's Boutique in the tree/shaded area. 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico (just south of Bloomingdale)

January 2017

Page 5

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Chick-fil-A Christmas Coffee At Brandon Town Center Welcomes New Owners

W W W

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

C O M

By Tatiana Ortiz

The sound of Dawn the well-known Redmon Christmas tune from the Jingle Bells, rang Chick-fil-A in throughout the Creekwood food court at Bradenton, Westfield Brandon will be the Mall on November new owner 30. Liz Stewart led and franthe Riverview High chised School Show restaurant New owner Dawn Redmon of the Chick-fil-A Choir as they peroperator at Brandon Town Center (left) stands with Tammy formed their rendi- and the Westfield Paul Holmberg (right), who will be operating tion of the song. Brandon Mall the new Chick-fil-A on Bloomingdale Avenue. Various chamber location. Her members attended to celebrate Paul husband Scott Redmon will also come and Tammy’s Annual Chick-fil-A on board as the restaurant marketing director and work with community Christmas Coffee. Attendees had the events. Dawn began her journey severopportunity to consume breakfast, al years ago with Chick-fil-A in a red which Chick-fil-A served. Paul Holmberg and wife Tammy shirt and knew the opportunity seemed own the Chick-fil-A at Westfield too great to pass up. She worked Brandon Mall and the Lake Brandon alongside Franchised Restaurant Village Causeway location as the franOperator Johnathan Ith from the chised restaurant operators. This will Creekwood location. Dawn mentioned be the last year that the Holmbergs will that she feels humbled and honored to honor their Chick-fil-A Christmas Coffee be chosen as a Chick-fil-A owner. event at Westfield Brandon Mall. The The city of Brandon feels like home Holmbergs will be transferring to Chick- to Dawn because she grew up in the fil-A South Brandon at 2010 area. She also looks forward to learnBloomingdale Ave., which will open in ing and growing with the people in the January 2017. community. “For the past 15 years, we hosted “I would love for people to come by this event at the Causeway location and say hello,” Dawn said. and then the past three years at For more information, visit Westfield Brandon Mall,” Tammy http://www.cfarestaurant.com/westfieldbrandon/home. It is located at 519 Holmberg said. “Christmas is our Brandon Town Center Mall in Brandon. favorite time of year and we love to Hours of operation are Monday through share that with our friends in the comSaturday 9 a.m.- 9 p.m. Call 654-6769. munity.”

918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511 657-2418 (fax) 657-4469

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CRIME/SAFETY & NEWS REPORTER

Marie Gilmore

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editor@ospreyobserver.com

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POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS THROUGHOUT BLOOMINGDALE/FISHHAWK, RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, BRANDON, AND VALRICO DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

RIVERVIEW ADVERTISING

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If interested in advertising in our Brandon or Valrico editions, please contact us at 813-657-2418. CHRISTIAN VOICE EDITOR

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Deadline for next BL/FishHawk edition is 10th of month.

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RIVERVIEW/APOLLO BEACH Because your home may well be your largest asset, selling it is probably one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. And once you have made that decision, you’ll want to sell your home for the highest price in the shortest time possible without compromising your sanity. Before you place your home on the market, here’s a way to help you to be as prepared as possible. To assist home sellers, a new industry report has just been released called “27 Valuable Tips That You Should Know to Get Your Home Sold Fast and for Top Dollar”. It tackles the important issues you need to know to make your home competitive in today’s tough, aggressive marketplace. Through these “27 Tips” you will discover how to protect and capitalize on your most

important investment, reduce stress, be in control of your situation, and make the most profit possible. In this report you’ll discover how to avoid financial disappointment or worse, a financial disaster when selling your home. Using a common-sense approach, you get the straight facts about what can make or break the sale of your home. You owe it to yourself to learn how these important tips will give you the competitive edge to get your home sold fast and for the most amount of money. Order your free report today. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report, call 1-800-261-4586 and enter ID 1023. Call anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or visit www.quicktipstosellyourhome.com.

This report is courtesy of Joy L. Frisch PA, Charles Rutenberg Realty, 813-677-5897. Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale.

Page 6

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 1

Riverview Chamber Celebrates With Digital Buzz, Sunshine State & The Basket Case Despite it being the holiday season, the Riverview Chamber of Commerce remained busy by holding ribbon cuttings for some local businesses.

Staff Report The Basket Case Celebrates Move To Winthrop

Sunshine State Family Care Celebrates Its Aesthetic Center

In November, the Basket Case recently celebrated its new shop in Winthrop Town Centre with a Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) ribbon cutting. The Basket Case takes a fresh approach to gift basket design and presentation. The imaginative, creative and award-winning design staff is prepared to personalize your gift accordingly. Dozens of exquisite gift baskets or fun-filled snack packs can be created for your next conference, meeting or convention or just one perfect basket for your special needs can be made. Stop in at 6028 Winthrop Town Centre in Riverview. You can check it out at www.thebasketcaseorlando.com, call 661-4438 or email LeAnn@TheBasketCaseOrlando.com.

Sunshine State Family Care P.A. wants everyone to know that it has Greater Riverview Chamber of added “& Commerce (GRCC) member Digital Buzz Aesthetics Center” Designs LLC recently celebrated its secto the name as it ond year of business in Riverview. In now offers MedSpa December, the GRCC conducted a ribservices in addition bon cutting ceremony to mark this excitto family care for all Photo courtesy of Ed Booth, Huth & Booth Photography ing milestone for Kristen Munn. The cere- ages. In Sunshine State Family Care and Aesthetic Center. mony took place at The Alley at South December, the November 2013 and is happy to now Shore immediately following the GRCC Greater Riverview Chamber of have Lisa Hart on her skincare team. weekly Taking Care of Business meeting. Commerce (GRCC) conducted a ribbonHart brings over 17 years of medical aesMunn was the thetician experience and remains passpeaker for that week’s sionate about staying up to date in the latmeeting and she was skincare techest thrilled to have the nology. At opportunity of telling the Sunshine State crowd of 50+ local busiFamily Care P.A. & ness people about her Aesthetic Center business. Digital Buzz they believe in eduspecializes in helping cating their patients businesses with their as they work with online presence. Using to achieve them website design, email the best physical marketing, logos and state possible. design and social Photo courtesy of Ed Booth, Huth and Booth Photography To schedule media, it offers affordDigital Buzz Designs, LLC celebrates second anniversary. consultation or your able solutions to conappointment, call nect you to your customers in the digital cutting ceremony to celebrate the occa540-5110 or visit world. sion. the location at To learn more about Digital Buzz Dr. Monica Rivera has been in pracChurchview 16144 Designs, call Munn at 602-1432 or email tice for several years as a family physiDr. in Lithia. Visit contact@digitalbuzzdesigns.com. Visit cian. She launched her own office, Photo courtesy of Debbie Kirkland, Riverview Chamber of Commerce www.sunshinesdigitalbuzzdesigns.com. Sunshine State Family Care, in The Basket Case moves to WinthropTown Centre. tatefamilycare.com.

Digital Buzz Designs, LLC Celebrate Second Anniversary With Ribbon Cutting

Hunter Douglas offers a wide variety of window fashions in an With 27 years of experience, Kim can help you make array of fabrics, textures and colors. Contact us today. We’re the choices that work within your budget to create a timeless Hunter Douglas experts, guiding you in the selections that’ll style for your home. make your home even more beautiful - whatever your style. Dove Interiors Carpet One 2305 E College Ave M-F: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Sat: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Sun: Closed 813-645-8660 www.doveinteriorsgallery.com

January 2017

Page 7

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Winter Jam Tour Spectacular And Its Founder Return to Tampa

By Amanda Boston

The highly popularity. At the anticipated Winter conclusion of last Jam Tour year’s Winter Jam Spectacular Tour, more than returns to Tampa’s 700,000 people Amalie Arena on attended throughSaturday, January out the country 14 at 6:00 p.m. breaking the previWith household ous year’s attennames like dance record. With Crowder, Britt an expectation of a Nicole, NewSong, greater turnout, Tenth Avenue Winter Jam 2017 North, Colton will play in 46 Dixon, and Andy cities from January Mineo, it is to April. Christian music’s Despite the Winter Jam returns with chart-topping largest annual Grammy-nominatChristian artists and guest speakers for a tour. Celebrated ed artists drawing four-hour worship event. evangelist and in a multitude of author Tony Nolan also joins the fun, fans, undoubtedly the most famous along with new and upcoming headliner is Jesus Christ. From start Christian artists. to finish the musicians, speakers, and The tour kicked off in 1995 with special guests unite to glorify God and the objective to reach a higher popuspread the love of Jesus. In October, lace with the gospel of Christ. In lieu Winter Jam founder, Eddie Carswell of costly ticket sales, Winter Jam of NewSong announced he would join adopted a first come, first service the 2017 tour and stated, “I'm so admission policy of only $10 at the excited to hit the road with all these door. With the impressive lineup of amazing artists for 46 nights of fantascontemporary Christian artists coupled tic music and life-changing ministry. with reasonably priced tickets, venues As we look ahead to 2017, our prayer have the tendency to sell out quickly. is simply that God will continue to With that in mind, patrons may opt to bless this tour and use it for His become a premium member of Jam glory." Nation, which allows for early admitFor more information, visit tance at 3:30 p.m. with a Pre-Jam www.jamtour.com. Follow Winter Jam party at 5:00 p.m. on Twitter and Instagram @winterjamFor over two decades, the powertour. Amalie Arena is located at 401 ful platform has consistently grown in Channelside Dr., Tampa.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 1

New Tin Roof Trading Company In Lithia Offers “Rustic Glam” Home Decor

By Nick Nahas

Everybody dreams of making a The Tin Roof can give a ing classes in chalk painting, cabinet living by doing something they love. Trading Company customer painting, decorating and candle pourShaunessy Dobish is realizing that is a 6,000 sq. ft. advice on ing. The store will also be opening a dream, recently opening her second property located what to purcoffee shop and a bakery, as well as a area home decor business. Dobish on 10530 CR 35 chase. This candle bar where customers can and business partner Veronica in Lithia run by offers a little make custom candles. They will also Perkins held the more variety offer their own line of candles with grand opening of the than original scents. Tin Roof Trading Company on December 3. “As a kid, I always loved decorating my room and helping my mom decorate the house,” she said “This interest has led me to become an interior decorator.” Dobish, a Valrico native, also owns Tin Roof Trading Co. opened in Lithia on December 3. Shaunessy’s Decor and More, located on Lithia Pinecrest Shaunessy’s Decor Shaunessy and Rd. near Erindale. and More. Perkins. The store features 6,000 square feet of home decor Dobish has been an The Tin Roof Perkins owns a treasures. interior decorator for Trading Company company For information, visit www.tin15 years now. She will also offer painting classes. The called Pish Tin Roof Trading Co. features a custom candle bar where customers can pick their Posh Boutique roof39.com or their Facebook page attended store has a DIY room where a variety container and scent. Bloomingdale High of different skills will be taught, includ- called Tin Roof Trading Company. that offers cusschool the first year that it opened, tom painted furniture pieces, located FREE ESTIMATES and her kids have graduated from the behind Shaunessy’s Decor and More. for both Landscaping and Lawn Care! same school. Her business is primariTogether, in the new store, they incorService Includes: Established Since 2002 ly based on referrals. Her store carries porate both of their designing styles of We also offer: • Mowing items that she uses to decorate with. using vintage, glitzy, as well as modLandscape Design • Trimming and She started doing jobs for free to get ern schemes. Customers can view a • Edging Installation her name out there. “It just kind of room put together with different items. • Weeding of the flower beds spread like wildfire,” she said. This allows customers to pick a single Licensed & Insured • Blowing off all surfaces “Everybody would tell their friends and item that they like, or even a whole NICOLE@GREENLIZARDLAWNS.COM • Trimming of shrubbery Military Discounts their friends would tell their friends. designed room. There will also be a WWW.GREENLIZARDLAWNS.COM I’ve never had to advertise.” professional decorator on hand that

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Page 9

Page 10

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 1

Parents Respond To Hillsborough County School Board Vote To End Courtesy Busing

The Hillsborough County Schools Board voted 6-1 last month to end courtesy busing for middle and high school students living within two miles of their school. The decision is the result of the Districts plan to reduce spending.

As anticipated, Hillsborough County Schools Board’s 6-1 decision last month to end its nearly 20-year-long courtesy busing offered to thousands of students living within two miles of their schools was met with much concern. Parents living in communities like FishHawk Ranch immediately turned to social media in hopes of finding the best way to come to terms with the loss of courtesy busing, a term that many have never heard, and a service that most thought was the norm. “Heavy traffic, long car lines and safety has been our concern for several years,” said FishHawk resident Kathi Hayes. “It’s funny how the beginning of the school year the school board said the area was deemed as hazardous conditions and we were always told that the solution is to utilize the buses. Traffic continues to increase as more residents move into the area, suddenly, the area isn’t hazardous and now we are losing the buses, which makes no sense.”

To explain the decision, school officials mailed out a comprehensive packet to nearly 7,500 middle and high school students who will be affected by the change at the start of the 2017-2018 school year, saving approximately $3 million for the District. “Parents of elementary students will have more time to plan,” said HCPS spokesperson, Tanya Arja. “We will end elementary courtesy busing as well, but not until the 2018-19 school year.” School officials estimate the total saving at nearly $10 million. The state provides funding to transport students who reside more than two miles from their assigned school, for prekindergarten or special education students who require transportation living inside the two-mile boundary. Students not meeting the state’s hazardous criteria are known as courtesy riders, thus the term courtesy busing. “Whether or not a student’s walk to school is hazardous is determined by

state criteria such as traffic count, speed limits, traffic path, and whether or not traffic signals are controllable,” Arja said. The district currently has more than 4,000 elementary and 7,500 middle and high school students living within two miles of a school. Arja said that buses were awarded based on temporary hazards, such as construction zones, but were not removed once the hazard was corrected. “For years students who no longer met the state’s hazardous criteria, continued to be bussed, costing the district millions of dollars that could be used in the classrooms,” she said, adding that the phasing out courtesy busing was recommended by the Gibson Consulting Group, as a means to reduce spending. It took nearly five months for school officials to determine that of the 7,495 students within the District’s 8 areas only 803 meet the state criteria. Similar to most communities, none of the 1,000 FishHawk Ranch area students attending Newsome High, Randall and Barrington Middle schools who receive courtesy busing met the state hazardous criteria, school officials said. “Our streets are already gridlocked with school traffic,” Hayes said adding, “I

By Tamas Mondovics

can’t imagine what it will look like next year with carlines, students hauling heavy backpacks walking in the heat and afternoon thunderstorms!” That is just what the “FishHawk Safe Bus for US!!! Advocacy for Safe School Bus Transportation Group” on Facebook planned to find out by means of a ‘Safe Bus for Us Drive In,’ scheduled for Tuesday, January 3, 2017. Parents were asked to drive their student(s) to school to demonstrate the impact to roads and traffic among other things, losing the buses would cause. School Board member, Melissa Snively, the only vote against the Board’s decision agreed when she reportedly said that the savings of several million dollars are not worth the safety risk and disruption, a notion that was obviously rejected. Parents who feel that the walking path for their students is unsafe may fill out a review request form, which was included in their packet and can also be found on the District’s website. The district will also conduct community meetings in the coming months to advise families on alternate ways to get their children to school, including carpools, organized walking groups and public transportation. For more information, please visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

January 2017

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 11

Page 12

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 1

Schools Benefit As FishHawk Ranch Road Race Celebrates 20 Years

By Katelyn Massarelli

In 1997, the first FishHawk Ranch Road Race took place to raise money for local charities and eventually became a way to raise money for local schools in

and FishHawk Road Runners each year to put together the Road Race each year. The event will have a 5K race and two kids’ fun-runs that will be one mile and a half mile. After the races, the event will have a post-race party for participants and attendees to celebrate their accomplishments or The Terkhorn familly attends the 19th just to have annual FishHawk Ranch Road Race. fun. 2005. This year, the “[Attendees] race is back to create a welcoming enjoy music provided by an area D.J., environment for everyone in the com- food, and random giveaways,” munity just as its done for the past 20 McMorrow said. “Of course, one of years. the highlights is the awards ceremoThis year all proceeds will be ny, with recognition for overall Male going to Barrington Middle, Colleen and Female, Masters and Bevis Elementary, FishHawk Creek Grandmasters winners, as well as to Elementary, Newsome High, Randall the top three racers in each age Middle and Stowers Elementary group. Medals are also given to all schools. In the past, the Road Race Kid’s Race participants. has donated more than $175,000 to Avid Runners, beginning, intermedilocal schools within the FishHawk ate level runners, and walkers all come community and contributed to a out to the Road Race. The event allows scholarship for a student member of participants and attendees to join in on the FishHawk Road Runners. the fun whether it be to have fun with “Each school has the flexibility to the family or come join the energetic use the funds they receive in a way atmosphere of the community. that is most beneficial to students or Potential racers can still register to support the school’s greatest and will be able to on the day of the need,” Marketing Manager for race. The 5K registration fee is $25 in Waterset Newland Communities advance and $30 on the race day. Kids Lynda McMorrow said. race registration fees are $15. You can McMorrow and the rest of the Register in advance at www.fishNewland Communities marketing hawkranch.com. The event will take team works to find sponsors for the place on January 28 at FishHawk race. They work alongside the Public Ranch, Lithia. For more information, you Relations team, school beneficiaries, can call 685-7500.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

St. Stephen Catholic School Hosts Student Open House By Kate Quesada

If you are conschools,” said Umoh. “We sidering a Catholic are constantly told that school education teachers appreciate stufor your children, dents that come from St. mark your calenStephen as they come to dars for Friday, high school with the necesJanuary 20 as St. sary skills and attitudes Stephen Catholic towards learning and also School in with strong leadership qualRiverview is ities and good character.” hosting an But Umoh is quick to open house add that St. Stephen focusSt. Stephen Catholic School Principal Linda es on more than academwhere prospecUmoh and student tive parents ics. “We are committed to ambassadors will be can learn the instilling Catholic values available at an Open House on Friday, January 20 to tell into everything we do many things the prospective families all that the school has to offer. through academic, spiritual school has to offer. Founded in and service experiences 2001 and accredited by the Florida that help students develop a personal Catholic Conference, St. Stephen is open relationship with Jesus,” said Umoh. “We to students in Pre-K through eighth are a forward-thinking school, rooted in grade. “St. Stephen provides a learning Catholic traditions and values and devotenvironment where every student is ed to preparing students for high school encouraged to reach their full potential,” and the 21st century.” said Principal Linda Umoh. “We offer a Students pray daily, celebrate Mass core curriculum, experiences in the arts, together, participate in reconciliation and foreign languages, sports and many spiritual retreats and provide service to extra-curricular activities.” the community. They have opportunities In addition, the middle school has a to live their faith through events such as one-to-one iPad and Chromebook prothe Week of Caring, Pro-life rallies, gram and eighth grade students are able Advent and Lent retreats, Focus 11 and to take and receive high school credit for Catholic Schools Week. “St. Stephen is Algebra 1 and Physical Science. The perfect for those seeking a school where school’s Resource Department has three they can feel part of a family,” said Umoh, instructors who meet the needs to stuwho added that this is a very exciting time dents on support plans and students who for them with the addition of the Family excel and need enrichment. Extra-curricLife Center and the much anticipated ular activities include show choir, drama opening of a new church this summer. To club, chess club, Little Flowers, 4-H, sign up for the open house or information Student Council and National Junior about the school, which is located at Honors Society. “The greatest compli10424 St. Stephen Cr. in Riverview, call ments we receive are from area high 741-9203 or visit www.sscsfl.org.

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Page 14

Volume 15, Issue 1

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Florida State Fair Captures Memories

Staff Report

The 113th ated with jellyFlorida State Fair beans. is scheduled for Visitors also February 9 learn about the through 20 at the ingredients used to Florida State make their favorite Fairgrounds, treats from a “farm located at I-4 and to fork” perspective US Hwy 301 in and get schooled in Tampa. This the nuts and bolts year’s theme, of the confectionThe Florida State Fair will take place “Picture Yourself making process, February 9-20. at the Fair,” while hearing fasciemphasizes all of the unforgettable nating stories of famous candy makers moments waiting to be captured on camand chocolatiers. The Sweets exhibit is era. One of the new featured attractions free with the price of admission. promises to make patrons of all ages as “We want both loyal patrons and happy as kids in a candy store as they those who have not yet visited the Fair to learn about the history of confections. The join us in making memories that will last a Sweets exhibit, along with rides, shows, lifetime,” said Cheryl Flood, executive concerts, shopping, food and amazing director of the Florida State Fair Authority. animals and livestock, as well as Mildred “The Sweets exhibit in particular will proW. and Doyle E. Carlton Jr. Cracker vide a fun and educational experience for Country and other exciting entertainment, all ages.” promise non-stop fun – all at an excellent In addition to thrilling rides, it wouldn’t value and always with free parking. be the Florida State Fair without educaDiscounted advance admission and ride tional and entertaining attractions and armband tickets are available for purperformers. Where – for the price of a chase online movie ticket – can you see a Sea Lion, a at www.FloridaStateFair.com beginning spectacular Big Top Circus, cheer on your Thursday, December 1. favorite porker at the pig races, feed a New at the Florida State Fair in 2017 giraffe from your own hand, enjoy acts is Sweets: A Tasty Journey, an interactive from TV shows like America’s Got Talent, exhibit that utilizes a blend of traditional watch an amazing bear show, and be and modern educational techniques to thrilled by the dogs of K-9s in Flight? explore candy’s history and role in popuDiscounted admission and armband lar culture. There also is a giant Candy tickets are available at Land game perfect for fun photo ops, a www.FloridaStateFair.com. Get the best “beanboozled” taste test challenge (grass prices now through January 1. Tickets flavored jelly beans anyone?) and candyalso can be purchased at Florida inspired art, including amazing replicas of Walgreens locations from January 2 famous paintings like the Mona Lisa, crethrough February 8.

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Page 15

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Shapes Fitness For Women In Riverview Continues To Transform Lives

By Tatiana Ortiz

Technology Individuals in the fitness can discover a world nowawide variety of days constantly programs at the grows at a Riverview locarapid pace. tion which Some individuincludes two als might ponmembership der about what plans, Diet the latest trend Logic and more. might be at The health club Ladies smiling after after a group fitness class. their local also offers Elite health club. Shapes Fitness for Women in Training and that price ranges from $59Riverview provides programs that aim to $99 a month with unlimited coached be designed for women of all levels, classes. which include those who never stepped To add, the Shapes Fitness for foot inside a traditional health club. Women in Riverview incorporates a new Valrico resident and franchise owner trend that involves The MYZONE wearAnn Gilbert of Shapes Fitness for Women able belt, which monitors one's heart rate in Riverview, Brandon and Wesley to determine effort during exercise. The Chapel, mentions the difference in this unique point system actually measures gym compared to the others. “The bouwhat matters for gym goers who can get tique style of our facility allows us to focus the results on their smartphones. much more on member service and our Individuals can download the app once niche of women’s only,” Gilbert said. the wearable gets attached and it can be Shapes Fitness for Women in worn in and out of the gym. Visit Riverview began operation on May 23, www.myzone.org for information. 2016. Known for the regions premiere The price would be $75 for women’s only fitness center operating members and $99 for non-members. club throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, “I want the community to know that Pasco and Manatee counties describes they will not be forgotten here,” General Shapes Fitness for Women. With 1,600 Manager Mary Bunting from the members, the 8,000 sq. ft. building stores Riverview location said. top of the line selectorized and free Hurry in for $0 enrollment through weight equipment, a full range of cardio Tuesday, January 31. For information, equipment as well as spa like amenities visit riverview.shapesfitness.co. It is locatand 2,000 sq. ft. of it includes the group ed at 11357 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. fitness room. This group fitness room can Open Monday through Friday 5 a.m.-9 hold up to 75 people and offers more p.m. Saturday 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. and Sunday than 40 classes per week. 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Call 672-6343.

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Page 16

Volume 15, Issue 1

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Our Residents Are Always On The Move!

Organization Announces Application Dates For 2017 Charlie Hounchell Art Stars Scholarships

By Kathy L. Collins

Tampa Bay TBBCA has awarded Businesses for 55 scholarships to Culture and the area students. Past Arts (TBBCA) winners have attendhas issued a “A ed prestigious instituCall for tions including The Applicants” for Juilliard School, New its 2017 Charlie York University’s Hounchell Art Tisch School of the Stars Arts, Savannah Scholarships College of Art and Program. The Design, The program proUniversity of South Lillian Kraack of Lithia ( Rt) received the vides financial Florida and The TBBCA 2016 Charlie Hounchell Art Stars support to stuScholarship for Vocal Music.She is standing University of Tampa. dents who live in with TBBCA Board Treasurer, Stephen Gay Last year, two and 2016 Vocal Music Judge, Dawne Hillsborough, local students were Eubanks. Pinellas and awarded scholarPolk Counties to help them pursue higher ships. Lillian Kraack of Lithia, graduated education in the arts. from Newsome High School. Kraack won Each year, $15,000 is awarded to for Vocal Music and now attends juniors and seniors in the above-referOklahoma City University where she is enced counties. The scholarships are majoring in musical theatre and vocal perawarded based on merit and artistic abiliformance. In addition to Kraack, Sabrina ty in the fields of instrumental music, Downing of Valrico received a scholarship vocal music, theatre, dance, visual arts for dance. She is a graduate of Howard and literary arts. Qualified students may W. Blake High School and is now pursuapply in one, more or all disciplines via ing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance and separate applications. a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary Guidelines and the application for the natural sciences at the University of 2017 Charlie Hounchel Art Stars South Florida. Scholarship Program can be found at TBBCA is a non-profit 501(c )(3). For www.tbbca.org/programs-events/art-stars- over 27 years, TBBCA has united busischolarships. There is no fee to apply. nesses in support of arts education, and Completed application are due by culture and the arts in our community. Monday, February 20, 2017 and can be The organization is based on the philosomailed to TBBCA at P.O. Box 559, phy that “the arts are good for business, Tampa, FL 33601. The winners will be and business is good for the arts.” announced in April. The TBBCA program For information, contact TBBCA is named in honor of TBBCA Past Executive Director, Susana Weymouth at President, Charlie Hounchell. Since 2007, susanaweymouth@tbbca.org.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

By Tamas Mondovics

Detectives Seek Public Assistance In Catching Brazen Gun Shop Burglary Suspects It took ing in conjunction less than five with the Bureau minutes for of Alcohol, the dozen or Tobacco, so unknown Firearms and suspects in Explosives are hooded asking for inforsweatshirts to mation in the remove nearTampa gun shop ly three burglary. dozen The Sheriff’s firearms from Office said that a Tampa area the Bureau of After smashing a vehicle through the front entrance, gun store dur- more than a dozen unknown suspects steal nearly 40 Alcohol, Tobacco, firearms from a Tampa area gun shop last month. ing a smashFirearms and and-grab robbery last month. Explosives (ATF) and National Shooting The incident took place in the middle Sports Foundation (NSSF), the trade of the night at the Tampa Arms Company association for the firearms industry, have located at 4023 Waters Ave. W., but announced a reward for information leadaccording to detectives, its robbery’s con- ing to the arrest and conviction of those sequences can reach to much farther. responsible for the theft of firearms from Based on surveillance video capTampa Arms Company, a federal firearms tured at the scene, detectives said that an licensee (FFL), in Tampa. unknown suspect drove a vehicle through ATF is offering a reward of up to the front glass entrance of the gun shop, $5,000, which will be matched by the which then provided a way for as many NSSF for a total reward of up to $10,000. as 10-15 suspects to enter the business Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay is also and remove close to 40 firearms, includoffering a reward of up to $3,000 for inforing Glock handguns, shotguns and ARmation that leads to the identification and 15 assault-style rifles before they fled the arrest of the unknown suspects involved scene by unknown means. in this case. “These types of incidents always “We take this incident very seriously pose a higher level of danger as and pursue it aggressively,” McKinnon weapons get out on to the streets,” said said, adding that the community is always Hillsborough County detective and Public part of the success. Information Officer Larry McKinnon. Crime Stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS Hillsborough County detectives work- (8477), www.crimestopperstb.com.

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Page 18

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

eting, e M b lu C n e d r a G Luncheons & More…

Linda Dorremocea, Independent Consultant from SCENTSY will showcase scents which can be personalized from many choices of oils. ABWC was founded Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, in 1959 by a group of michelle@ospreyobserver.com women who wished to contribute to the community by providing college scholarships to Apollo Beach area high school students. Growing Camellias To Be Longevity Awards will be presented at Discussed At January Riverview the January 11 meeting to members Garden Club Meeting who have supported and contributed The Riverview Garden Club will their time and talents over many hold its January meeting on Wednesday, January 11 at 10 a.m. years. at the Riverview Civic Center, 11020 Park Dr. in Riverview. The guest speaker will be Master Gardener Emeritus Eileen Hart. She will discuss Growing Camellias in the Tampa Bay Area. First time attendance is free. ABWC fundraising activities There is free parking. For more inforincluding a Fashion Trunk Show, mation, call Harriet at 727-6567. Bake Sale and Poinsettia Sale have raised $2,934 for the scholarship fund Apollo Beach Woman’s Club to date. Monthly Luncheon On Friday, February 3 the ABWC The Apollo Beach Woman’s Club, will host its annual wine tasting with membership open to all women fundraiser at Apollo’s Bistro 7-9 in Apollo Beach and surrounding PM $15. For information and tickets: communities, will hold its monthly Marie 645-0262, Carol 440-667luncheon meeting January 11 at 9501 or Sara 802-8663. Proceeds Apollo’s Bistro, 6520 Richies Way will benefit the Scholarship Fund. in Apollo Beach. Luncheon reservation ($18) deadSt. Anne Catholic Church Hosts line is Friday, January 6. For reservaChamber Luncheon tions, call Sharon Vasquez at 641As St. Anne’s Diamond Jubilee 7856 or email sharonlvasquez@veriyear came to an end in November, zon.net.

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the Parish hosted lunch for the South Shore Chamber of Commerce. The event included a self-directed tour of the church. The invitees were greeted by St. Anne staff, which provided booklets with details on the significance of different aspects of the church and were readily available to answer any questions. Following the tour, participants enjoyed a wonderful buffet-style lunch in St. Joachim Hall. Approximately 20 local businesses were represented at the occasion. St. Anne Catholic Church is located at U.S. Hwy. 41 and 11th Avenue N.E. in Ruskin. For more information about the Parish, call the Parish Office at 645-1714, or visit SaintAnneRuskin.org.

Local Knights Of Columbus Council Receives Top International Award

Knights of Columbus Council 15675 of Riverview has earned the distinction of Star Council, one of the organization's top awards, for the 2015-2016 fraternal year. The organization's headquarters, located in New Haven, Connecticut, made the announcement. The award recognizes overall excellence in the areas of membership recruitment and retention, promotion of fraternal insurance program, and sponsorship of service-oriented activities. The award was presented to the membership by District Deputy Mark Anderson at a special ceremony held on December 4. "Receiving the Star Council Award is quite an honor for us. We're extreme-

Volume 15, Issue 1

ly proud of this accomplishment," proclaimed Grand Knight Dave Farrugia, head of the local

Award Winning Program Offered at The Bridges

The award-wining program, “A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls” will be offered at The Bridges Assisted Living Community in partnership with Senior Connection Center, Inc. This free four week program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Participants will learn to view falls as controllable. They will set goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce fall risks, and exercise to increase strength and balance. Anyone interested in improving their balance, flexibility and strength or that have restricted activities because of falling concerns are encouraged to attend. Classes will be held very Wednesday and Friday from

February 1-24 from 9-11 a.m. in the Clubhouse at The Bridges, 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. Space is limited. Please call Janet at 413-8900 for more information..

January 2017

Page 19

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

s State Fair Seek nty Cou , p l e H l a n o s a e S ore M & s e s s a P k Par

Library, 1906 Bloomingdale getting a pass has become more conAve. in Valrico. Three classvenient than ever. es will run simultaneously Purchasing an annual pass used for 10 weeks each. to require going to the regional park One begins Tuesday administrative office and completing January 17, 2017 from the paperwork and payment on site. 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Outdoor enthusiasts now can skip the Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, Another class begins trip and buy an annual pass from their michelle@ospreyobserver.com Friday, computer or mobile device. January 20, 2017 An annual pass allows free from 1:30–4:30 p.m., and access to the County’s 10 regional the third class starts Saturday, January 21 parks. The cost is $50 for an individFlorida State Fair RCMA Wimauma Academy recognizes the from 1:30–4:30 p.m. ual pass and $100 for families. The Terrific Kids (sponsored by Kiwanis) for Hiring Seasonal All skill levels are welpermit is issued in the form of a trans- December: 1st row: Emiliano Serna, Eduardo Help come. Pick up a brochure in ferrable tag that hangs from a vehiJose, Areli Herrera, Mauricio Vasquez, 2nd The Florida row: Brenda Dircio, Briana Lagos, Jose Pizano, the lobby of the library or cle’s rear view mirror. Diego Sanches, 3rd row: Gladivel Antonio, State Fair is hiring email Camping for the general public is Adrian San Juan, Kimberly Mendoza, Natalia Ticket Sellers, LifeWritersBloom@msn.com offered at Edward Medard, E.G. Solano Docents, Ride for more information. Simmons, Lithia Springs, and Cheer season has begun. Rosters are Attendants, Tram Drivers, Tram Students are required to near capacity and will fill quickly already Attendants, Sign Shop Technicians, Gate plan on attending all ten so please do not wait until the fall. Attendants, Event Services, Museum classes. The classes are All parents registering their children Maintenance Assistant, Telephone sponsored by the Friends of will need to create an account within Operators and other seasonal positions. the Bloomingdale Regional the eastbaybucs.org website. Please Start dates range from mid-January to Library and are free to the you have your athlete's birth cerensure early February and jobs will continue public. To register, go to the tificate. through Tuesday, February 21. “Ask Desk” inside the library The football registration fee is $280 The Florida State Fair runs or email and the cheerleading registration fee is from Thursday, February 9 to Monday, LifeWritersBloom@msn.com. Bloomingdale Regional Library offering writing classes. $320. February 20. Shifts and hours are varied. The pre-registration fee for both is Applicants must be available to work flexi- HCC: Spring Registration Now Open Alderman’s Ford parks, and requires an $75 and is non-refundable/non-transferble hours including, but not limited to, onAt Hillsborough Community College additional fee. able. There is a $10 discount available for call, late nights, early mornings, weekRegistration for spring enrollment is Regional parks include: Alderman’s each additional child-athlete registered. ends and holidays for the duration of the now open at Hillsborough Community Ford Park, Edward Medard Park, E.G. Fair. College (HCC). Students interested in Simmons Park, Eureka Springs Park, For consideration, please apply applying to HCC can now register for Lake Park, Lake Rogers Park, Lettuce at www.floridastatefair.com. Background spring courses through January 13. Visit Lake Park, Lithia Springs Park, Upper checks are conducted on all candidates. http://news.hccfl.edu/. Tampa Bay Park, and Upper Tampa Bay Trail. For more information, call 987-6240.

Life Story Writing/Memoir Classes To Begin At Bloomingdale Regional Library

Life Story Writing/Memoir classes will start once again the third week of January at the Bloomingdale Regional

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Page 20

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Get Tickets Early As Center Place Presents Its 27th Annual Wild Dame Night

Volume 15, Issue 1

Goodrich Theater...Continued From Page 1

By Tamas Mondovics

By Kathy L. Collins

Ladies, it is ming at Center that time of the Place. Dawn year again when Galia, you get to gather Executive your friends and Director of get ready for a wild Center Place night at Center said, “Wild Place's 27th Dame Night Annual Wild Dame helps with our Night. This fun and Children's thefabulous event will ater programCenter Place will host its 27th Annual Wild Dame ming. Over take place on Night on Saturday, February 18. This is a fun and 15,000 children Saturday, fabulous night for ladies to get together and supFebruary 26 at port the arts. All proceeds from the event benefit each year from children's programming at Center Place. Center Place public schools, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in private schools, daycares and homeBrandon. The fun begins at 6 p.m. with schooling families come and enjoy our social time. live theater at Center Place featuring This ladies only event usually sells Stages Productions, Inc., Katie Adams out fast, so get your tickets now. Tickets Make Believe Theater and ArtsPower go on sale on Friday, January 6 at 10 each year. This may be the only theater a.m. Tickets are just $60 per person or experience that some of these children you can be a true supporter of the arts, ever get to experience.” and sponsor a table for just $800. Please Galia added, “It is important to Center note that there are a limited number of Place to continue to offer our quality protickets. gramming. The arts do make a differThis year’s theme is Biker Babes ence.” Rally Around America. Stages Center Place, a registered non-profit, Productions, who has performed at was established in 1976. Its members are Center Place's Wild Dame Night for over dedicated to the promotion of the fine arts 20 years, will present Let Freedom Sing. and civic involvement. Center Place offers You will not want to miss this special cultural enrichment through a variety of presentation. programs including monthly exhibitions of In addition to social time and a spefine, original art; art education for both cial presentation by Stages Productions, children and adults; and the performing ladies will enjoy wine, a sit down catered arts. dinner and decadent desserts which has For information on the 27th Annual become a tradition of Center Place’s Wild Wild Dame Night and other upcoming Dame Night. All proceeds from this very events, visit www.centerplacebrandon.org special event benefit children’s programor call 685-8888.

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ever bleed through to interfere with any movie,” Betz said, adding that all fourteen theaters feature digital projection offering 1,665 full-motion electric, leather plush recliners with extra wide arm rests complete with snack trays and cup holders. Guests always can select their own seat, whether on-line, mobile app or in person prior to the start of every show, while all the box office windows are located inside the spacious, contemporary air-conditioned lobby that include a number of self-serve ticket kiosks and a massive concession stand with selfserve free drink refill stations. But there is more. Living up to its promise of offering a luxury cinema experience, Riverview 14 GDX will provide guests something extra special, including FEATURES, a Gastro-Pub Restaurant & Bar, developed by Celebrity Chef Brian Duffy. Located inside the building with a seating capacity of about 100, includ-

ing 20-30 at the bar, the restaurant is dubbed as an innovative scratch kitchen offering food prepared fresh daily, perfect for lunch, dinner and latenight. “Our guests can enjoy a great food and are welcome to take their dinner inside the theater making use of the snack trays and cup holders available at every seat,” Betz said. As a welcome gesture during the first month of opening, guests are encouraged to save any used movie stub from any other movie theater to exchange at their concession stand for a free popcorn tub. Now until the opening, GQT is running a contest giving away multiple Movie Passes for one year by simply signing up for their Free Outstanding Rewards Program (www.goodrichqualitytheaters.com/fmg). For more information, visit www.GoodrichQualityTheaters.com and Facebook @ Goodrich Riverview.

January 2017

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Page 21

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Brandon Native Serves Aboard U.S.Navy Submarine Tender In Guam

By Petty Officer 1st Class James H. Green

A 1996 continue to exceed all expectations while supBloomingdale Senior porting submarines and High School graduate surface ships in the fifth and Brandon native is and seventh fleet area serving in the U.S. Navy of operations,” said as part of an integrated Capt. Mark Prokopius, crew of sailors and civilcommanding officer of ian mariners working USS Emory S. Land. aboard the expedi“Their hard work and tionary submarine tenprofessionalism makes der, USS Emory S. me proud of each and Land. every one of them.” Petty Officer 1st Sailors aboard subClass Dennis Cope marine tenders support serves in Guam as part of the forward deployed Petty Officer 1st Class Dennis deployed subs as well as combatant ships. naval force in the Cope, a Bloomingdale High School Graduate, is currently "These sailors conPacific. serving aboard the USS Emory tinue to impress me He is in charge of S. Land in Guam. with the level of effort all electrical planning for and expertise they put into successfully submarine repairs aboard the ship. completing their mission day-in and “Guam sailors are located at our nation’s most strategically important for- day-out," Rear Adm. Frederick Roegge, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. ward-deployed submarine base, and Pacific Fleet, said. "Their actions and the missions they conduct at the tip of dedication to service enables the the spear are incredible,” said Capt. Submarine Force to excel in the underDavid Schappert, Commander, sea domain." Submarine Squadron 15. “They are “For me the best thing about servconstantly challenged and continually ing on this boat is its location,” said rise to meet and exceed expectations. Cope. “Guam is a great place to be staGuam is the place to be for subtioned and I like the opportunity to mariners, and we have the ‘Go Guam!’ experience the different culture.” initiative to showcase all the great The integrated crew of sailors and things we do out here.” civilian mariners build a strong fellowWith a crew of 41 officers and 650 ship while working alongside each enlisted, submarine tenders are 649 ft. other, Cope explained. long and weigh approximately 23,347 “Serving in the Navy has allowed tons. A steam-powered propulsion sysme to be part of moving America fortem helps push submarine tenders ward in the world and I am proud of through the water at nearly 21 mph. “The sailors aboard Emory S. Land that,” Cope added.

Volume 15, Issue 1

January 2017

Page 23

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

A True Must-See: Shen Yun 2017 Florida Tour Staff Report

Since its “Actually in inception, Shen China today, you Yun, a classical can no longer see Chinese dance performances of company has genuine traditional taken off with, Chinese culture,” literally, flying said principal dancer colors. The and choreographer pageantry of Yungchia Chen, dance and who grew up in music is a stunChina, later moved ning display of to Taiwan. “China Chinese civihas many talented Shen Yun tells the story of ancient China through the pageantry of dance and music. It dancers, but the cholization; with will take place at the Mahaffey Theater in St. dancers spinPetersburg on January 27 and 28 and again at reographers aren’t ning and leapallowed to choreoThe Lakeland Center on February 7 and 8. ing through the graph any traditional air in brilliant handmade costumes that pieces for them to perform. Shen Yun is take your breath away. different.” Shen Yun Performing Arts had humThere are countless stories in the ble beginnings as a small nonprofit 5,000 years of Chinese civilization. Chen organization based in upstate New York. noted, “The challenge is to find stories It was established in 2006 by a group of you can depict on stage. In a play, actors talented ethnic Chinese artists who came can speak, but in dance you have just a together with a shared vision—to revive few minutes to tell a story, and do so with genuine traditional culture and share it clarity in a moving way.” with the world. Shen Yun is home to an impressive Watching Shen Yun gives you the number of artists from around the world. feeling of partaking in something historic, And these artists take Shen Yun’s misin the resurrection of a long lost world. It sion to heart. This can be seen in their is the world of ancient China, the Middle energy and joyful enthusiasm on stage, Kingdom that can no longer be seen as well as their seamless cooperation, even in China today. It is a world where the type that can only arise from a comdivine beings and humans interact, a mon sense of greater purpose. magical world of myth and legend. Shen Yun will perform at St. It is completely independent of the Petersburg’s Mahaffey Theater on Friday regime of the Chinese Communist Party and Saturday, January 27-28; The in Beijing. In fact, even though the comLakeland Center on Tuesday and pany annually performs to sold-out theWednesday, February 7-8; and the aters in New York and around the world, Venice Performing Arts Center Fridaythe company is not allowed to perform in Sunday, February 10-12. Tickets and China. information visit www.shenyun.com/FL.

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Page 24

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 1

Riverview/Apollo Beach

January 2017

Volume 15, Issue 1

Ph: 657-2418

InThis Section

CHALKLINES....................................PG 27 LIBRARY PROGRAMS ......................PG 29 APOLLO BEACH........................PGS 30‐31 FINE ART SHOW .............................PG 32

YEAR IN REVIEW......................PGS 33‐40 technician’s offer 24/7 emergency service. For more information, call 888466-8055. Visit www.restoration1.com/tampa-bay or www.facebook.com/Resto1TB.

Ribbon Cutting Will Be Held at iFLY Tampa to Celebrate Opening

Join in for a ribbon cutting celebrating the opening of iFLY Tampa on Tuesday, January 17 at 11:30 a.m. Refreshments will be served. There will be demonstrations and more. iFLY Tampa is located at 10654 Palm River Rd. in Tampa. For more information, call 773-4359 or visit https://www.iflyworld.com/tampa/.

First 100 At New Chick-filA In Bloomingdale Receive Free Meals For One Year

The grand opening of the new Chick-fil-A South Brandon Bloomingdale will take place on Friday, January 26. Local residents are invited to an overnight parking lot camp out beginning the day before to be one of the first 100 in the new store. It’s all part of the signature First 100® event dating back to 2003. Come daylight, it rewards the first 100 customers with the ultimate prize of free Chick-fil-A meals for a year. Chick-fil-A South Brandon Bloomingdale is located in the new

New Early Learning School Will Open In FishHawk

The Goddard School, which is scheduled to open in late spring, will be located at 14106 Spector Rd. in Fishhawk. Pre-enrollment events are T. Marie’s will be hosting Sunday Markets every week beginning January 15. They are lookplanned for late February. ing for artisans and vendors who are interested in participating. The preschool will offer a year Walmart Plaza at 2010 Bloomingdale then take place every Sunday from 10 Monday through Friday from 7 round, Ave. in Valrico. a.m.-4 p.m. a.m.-6 p.m. children aged six weeks T. Marie’s is looking for artisans to five years. Its F.L.EX.® Learning T. Marie’s Sunday Market To Begin and vendors to participate. Please call Program (Fun Learning Experience) is 530-0922 to reserve your space today In January grounded in research on how children or for more information and Beginning Sunday, January 15, T. availability. Applications are also available in the store.

Repair Your Home Damage In Time For The Holidays With Restoration One

Marie’s will host a Sunday Market, which will be held between T. Marie's Boutique and Walgreens in the tree/shaded area at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico (at Bloomingdale Ave.) The market will

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learn best: children experience the deepest, most genuine learning when they are having fun. It is designed to provide a well-rounded experience and ensure that each child becomes confident, joyful and fully prepared for success in school and in life. Please visit GoddardSchool.com/LithiaFL or call 603-1530 for more information.

Continued on Next Page

Page 26

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

gation equipment, know how to use it By Michelle Colesanti in order to locate your position. If awards for Best Overall Marketing not you can downCampaign and Online Digital load the Sea Tow Advertisement, while Apollo Beach’s app for free and it Waterset community received a nod will give you your for Best Website. coordinates when “We’re honored to have been recyou need them. ognized by our peers at the Tampa Have a way to Bay Builder’s Association,” said Pam call for help. If Parisi, Vice President of Marketing for your vessel Newland Communities. “People are doesn’t have a drawn to make sure radio our comGRCC’s Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Friday, you have a method munities January 20. The event begins at 5 p.m. at The Regent in to charge your cell because Riverview. phone in case we try to known as Homes for Hillsborough), there is a delay in being able to locate think of was for children to have a safe place and assist you. every to play. Earl Pfeiffer, the executive Make sure you have at least 300 detail in director of FHP, expressed, “Adding lumens of light to navigate with. Even the homebuyer experience. Our playgrounds to our communities is a though you might have planned to advertisements and websites are an fulfillment of Ms. Duke’s vision, and it return before dark often it could be extension of that commitment to meet helps to complete a neighborhood. dark by the time an assistance vessel the needs of our perspective resiThe contribution from the Suncoast gets you underway again. dents.” Credit Union Foundation reasserts For more information on Sea Tow, Waterset’s community website that vision.” Self-help homeowner and call 727-547-1868 or visit was refreshed in mid-2016 to increase president of the Las Villas www.seatow.com/local/tampabay/. the user-friendliness of the site. With Homeowners Association, Eileen the improvements, potential homebuySuncoast Credit Union Foundation Burke, who is also an employee of ers can view virtual tours of model FHP, stated, “The Las Villas playProvides $20,000 to a Self-Help homes and amenities, as well as resiground was installed in 2002, and has Housing Community Playground dent testimonials and videos of the been well used.” For more information Facelift community. As a result of the about Florida Home Partnership, call Florida Home Partnership (FHP), enhancements, traffic to the site has 672-7860 or email info@flhome.org. a nonprofit community homebuilder, is increased significantly, as well as the pleased to announce that the amount of time visitors spend viewing Greater Riverview Chamber of Suncoast Credit Union Foundation the website. Visit Commerce Announces 2016 has awarded $20,000 to the agency’s www.watersetfl.com/. Finalists for Business of the Year original self-help The 2016 Riverview Chamber housing community Boating Tips President, Dr. Bryan Thatcher, in Ruskin. Las Villas, Offered By Sea announced the Greater Riverview formerly known as Tow Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce 2016 Homes for Ruskin, Capt. John Business of the Year Award was the first selfBryan of Sea Tow in Finalists: help community built the Tampa Bay area Organizations with 3 or less in Hillsborough sees all sorts of misemployees: Angeloni Tax Advisory County through the takes made by Group, Huth and Booth Photography, United States boaters and most of and Quality Life Massage Therapy. Department of them are easily Organizations with up to 25 Agriculture’s (USDA) avoidable. He offers employees: Alley Cat Pest Control, Self-help Mortgage a few common ones Anytime Fitness (Boyette), and Program. that you can take Coastal Catering. Administered measures not to Organizations with over 25 through FHP, the make. Check the employees: Little Harbor Resort, self-help program weather forecast RE/MAX South Shore Realty, and enables eligible low and ask yourself if Stanley Steemer. Florida is great for boating year-round and and moderate your vessel breaks Winners for these awards, as Capt. John Bryan of Sea Tow in the Tampa income families the down will you be safe. Bay offers boating tips. well as the Citizen, Ambassador, opportunity to conAnchoring in high Volunteer and Shining Star of the tribute a minimum of 600 hours of winds can easily flood your boat or Year will be announced at GRCC’s sweat-equity towards the building of cause you to drift into damaging Annual Dinner and Awards their home. FHP established Las obstructions. Make sure your anchor Ceremony on Friday, January 20. Villas, a 74-home community, 18 is the right size for your boat and that The event begins at 5 p.m. at The years ago. In addition to affordable you have enough line for it to set. Regent in Riverview. To purchase housing, the desire of the late Dorothy Have a method to determine your your ticket or to inquire further, visit Duke, founder of FHP (formerly GPS location. If your vessel has naviwww.RiverviewChamber.com.

Business Column Continued............. Streamsong® Wine Dinner Experience

On Thursday, January 19, Streamsong® Resort invites you to join in for a premium wine dinner experience feature Plum Jack, CADE and Odette Wineries at SottoTerra™. This event includes three of Napa Valley’s most acclaimed winemakers. Executive Chef Michael Ford and his skilled culinary team have created provocative food pairings highlighting the flavors and aromas of each vineyard. Scot Gaffney, Regional Manager for the wineries will co-host the evening sharing their winemaking philosophy and dedication to handcrafting luxury and ultra-premium wines. The event will begin with a 6:30 p.m. reception followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Please make your reservations early as seating is limited. Call 855242-7583. Steamsong Resort is located at 1000 Streamsongs Dr. in Streamsong. For more information, visit www.streamsongresort.com.

FishHawk Sporting Goods Hosts Grand Opening

Save the date for FishHawk Sporting Goods Grand Opening Celebration which will be held on Saturday, February 11 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. This family owned and operated new sporting goods store will be offering treats and snacks, drawings and prizes. Two tickets to a Lightning game will be given away. There will be specials and discounts all day long. FishHawk Sporting Goods offers new and gently used sporting goods for every athlete in your family. It is located at 13446 Boyette Rd. in the River Springs Shopping Plaza at the corner of FishHawk Blvd. and Bell Shoals Rd.)

Newland Communities Earns Tampa Bay Builders Association Honors

Two Newland Communities Receive Awards of Excellence by Tampa Bay Builders Association’s (TBBA) at the organization’s annual banquet held in November. Bexley, Newland Communities’ newest master-planned community in Land O’Lakes, was honored with two

Volume 15, Issue 1

January 2017

Page 27

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Story by Tamas Mondovics

Giunta Resource Deputy Seeks Fitness Room For Teachers, New Members Sworn In For Board support through the generosity of the community to fund the project. “Anything that you might be willing to provide, new or used, would be extremely appreciated,” he said adding that gift cards to purchase equipment for the Health and Wellness Room, would also be wonderful. King can be reached by calling 7404888 x234 or through email at eking@hcso.tampa.fl.us.

Giunta Middle School Resource Deputy Seeks Support To Open Fitness Room For Teachers on Campus

From Field Training Officer to Street Crimes, even serving as a member of the civil disturbance team, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy, Eric King has enjoyed a long list of jobs over the past 13 years on the force, with one position that he said stands out from the rest. “I have served in many areas throughout the agency, but none of them have been as rewarding as my current assignment as a School Resource Deputy at Giunta Middle School,” King said. Giunta Middle School located at 4202 S. Falkenburg Rd. in Riverview, is a culturally diverse Title 1 school, located within a lower to middle income neighborhood, which opened in 2005, with current Principal Michael Bobo taking over in 2012. King emphasized that since his arrival at this school, he has noticed an unprecedented level of dedication and genuine care coming from the administration team and teaching staff toward the children they serve, which prompted him to launch an effort to give back to the faculty in a special way. “Many of the staff arrive early in the morning and stay well late into the

evening in an attempt to prepare for the next day so that each child is successful in the classroom,” he said. “So it is my desire to do something to help those who selflessly give so much of themselves to help the students.” King added that many educators just don’t have the time for the gym, between work and families at home to take care of. Understanding that good health is a major concern today, King decided to open a Health and Wellness Room, on campus for the staff to make use of throughout the day. “I hope to help them stay healthy and continue with the same passion and dedication,” King said, adding exercise, stress relief as well as maintaining a level of fitness will benefit the entire school. With Giunta’s Principal, Michael Bobo on board, King was offered the use of an empty classroom and is now in need of

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High School, and received her Master of Business Administration from St. Leo University. Shamburger has worked in the insurance industry for 19 years and as a Mortgage Broker. The third member on the list was

New Members Sworn in to Hillsborough County School Board

The Hillsborough County School Board welcomed two new School Board Members and two returning School Board Members during the swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, November 22. Lynn Gray was sworn in to represent District 7 Countywide. Gray was a teacher and instructional leader for 26 years in Hillsborough County and has been a local business owner for 16 years. Gray was elected in the November General Election representing all of Hillsborough County. The school board also welcomed Tamara Shamburger, who was also elected in the November General Election and sworn in to represent District 5. Shamburger was born and raised in Tampa and is a graduate of Bloomingdale

Hillsborough County Public Schools superintendent Jeff Eakins is joined by current school board members Susan L. Valdes, Sally Harris, Cindy Stuart, Melissa Snively, Tamara Shamburger, April Griffin and Lynn Gray.

Susan Valdes, who represents District 1 and was re-elected in the Primary election in August. The second returning board member is Cindy Stuart represents District 3. Stuart was first elected to the School Board in 2012, and also re-elected in the Primary election in August. To complete the official’s ceremony, the Hillsborough County School Board elected Stuart a new School Board chair. Sally Harris was selected as vice chair.

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Page 28

Volume 15, Issue 1

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Sign Waver Continues To Care

By Amanda Boston

Riverview p.m., she is situated resident, Diane at the following locaWilliams, is often tions; Saturdays on referred to as the the corner of USJesus Cares 301 and Riverview Lady. She Dr., Fridays Hwy. 60 believes God in front of the called her to Westfield Mall, and deliver a simple, Tuesdays alongside yet profound Channelside Dr. message. The sign serves Shortly after as encouragement committing to the to those who know commission, and love Jesus Williams develwhereas it introoped a severe illduces Jesus’s love ness requiring a to those who do not. stint in the hospiMost onlookers simtal. In the face of ply wave, honk, or Diane Williams, a Riverview resident, brings her suffering, shout an even her radiant smile and message of hope to the God drew her “Amen" in acknowlBrandon and Tampa Bay area. close, worked on her heart, and preedgement of the sign. Yet, from time to pared her for street ministry. While on time, she encounters a great deal of foot the mend, she faithfully and earnestly traffic, especially from the heartbroken sought God through prayer and Bible and discouraged. For those who stop to study. In due course, God revealed His visit, they are blessed with a warm purpose and plan for Williams eventually greeting, a tender hug, and a listening leading her to create the Jesus Cares ear. Williams invites visitors to learn sign, which is familiar to so many. about her Lord and Savior and asks to Williams explained, “I am sowing seeds pray for them. “Most of these folks are for the Lord. Just like the parable, some seeking a cure to their problems, but seeds fall on soil and sprout while others until they find Jesus, they are going to fall on rocky ground and never grow. I keep on searching or fix it with the put out the message that Jesus cares, wrong stuff. I am praying and relying on but it’s Jesus who does the real work.” the Holy Spirit to guide me on what to Since September 2009, Williams say.” has been a perpetual presence of comThe next time you see Williams, fort and hope by donning her fabulous give her a honk or a shout of encouragesmile and famous sign. Williams displays ment. Better yet, stop and speak with her sign, prays, and waves to the steady her. For more information on Williams’ stream of traffic in the Tampa and ministry or to watch her testimony, Brandon area. From 10:30 a.m. to 2 please visit www.jesuscaresinc.com.

Water Smart Tots Will Benefit From MOMS Club Comedy Night When the MOMS Club of FishHawk heard about the organization Water Smart Tots, and its mission to eliminate pediatric drowning in Hillsborough Last year’s MOMS Club fundraiser was a success. County, they This year a Comedy Night unanimously starring sought after wanted to help. entertainer Scott Novotny will be held on February 3 The at the Palmetto Club in MOMS Club of Lithia. LithiaBevis/Starling will host a FishHawk Comedy Night to raise funds for Water Smart Tots. The President of the MOM’s Club Michelle Morgan said, “Choosing a charity for our fundraiser is always a hard decision. There are so many deserving charities in our community to pick from. Because we are moms, we always have a special interest in helping children and children's charities.” The event will take place on Friday, February 3, from 6:30-10 p.m. at the Palmetto Club, located at 17004 Dorman Rd. in Lithia. This year Fishhawk Comedy Night will feature comedian Scott Novotny, who has been in the comedy “business” for over 20 years. He is quickly becoming the most sought-after entertainer. He has the ability to play to a wide range of audience members while keeping the performance professional and appropriate.

Staff Report

A versatile performer, Novotny headlines comedy clubs throughout the United States, has acted in numerous stage productions, worked at the Brave New Workshop as an improvisational actor/writer, owned and operated The Comedy CabaretMN’s first fulltime comedy theatre, and has written for Saturday Night Live and the comic strip, Strange Brew. This outrageous performer has had numerous television appearances including A&E’s Comedy on the Road, MTV’s Half Hour Comedy Hour, and ABC’s America’s Funniest People. Tickets will cost $45 per person. A table for eight can be reserved for $320. Tickets include dinner, dessert, and the show. There also will be a cash bar and raffles for gift baskets all donated by local businesses and sponsors. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Businesses can also purchase advertisement in the event program. To make a donation or to purchase tickets for the event visit https://comedynightmomsclub.wordpress.com/ or contact momsclubbevis@yahoo.com. For more information on Water Smart Tots, visit www.watersmarttots.org/.

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January 2017

Page 29

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

ams, r g o r P y r a r b i L eive c e R n e r d l i h C Foster Items & More

ing the holiday season.”

Riverview Library Children’s Programming For January

The Riverview Library, located at 10509 Riverview Dr. holds programs each month that are courtesy of the Friends of Riverview Library and the Hillsborough Library System. Inquire at the Library Service Desk or call 2733652.

Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com

Foster Children Receive Items From WMU-Cooley Law School

Donated items collected by WMULocal Schools Lead Graduation Cooley Law School’s students, faculty, Rate as Hillsborough County and staff were delivered to Everyday Claims Increase in Student Success Blessings, a nonprofit foster care organization located in Thonotosassa. The Florida Department of Items collected included games, toys, gift cards, personal hygiene products and more. Those living at Everyday Blessings range in age from newborn through 17 years old, and come from all economic backgrounds and ethnic groups. The foster care organization houses children who have been removed from their previous homes due to abuse, WMU-Cooley Tampa Bay students, faculty, and staff donated items to Every Day Blessings, a nonprofit foster care organineglect, or abandonzation in Thonotosassa. Pictured are staff members (leftment. right) Lisa Erkens, Codi Babb, and Amber Thomas. “WMU-Cooley’s students, faculty and staff have a special Education released high school graduplace in their hearts for the children at ation rates last month showing the posEveryday Blessings,” said Lisa Erkens, itive news for Hillsborough County who coordinated the donation drive at Public Schools, including a 3-percentthe law school. “We want every child to age point increase over the previous have an opportunity to feel special dur- year.

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19007 Dorman Rd. Lithia, FL 33547 Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of Seeds of Promise located in Hillsborough County, in the City of Valrico, Florida 33594 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Brandon, Florida, this 20 day of December, 2016. Robert McCurrin

According to the report, the District, managed increase its graduation rate from 76 percent in 2014-2015 to 79.1 percent in 2015-2016. The graduate rate includes all schools that fall under the umbrella of Hillsborough County Public Schools, including charter, career centers and alternative schools. While HCPS’ 27 traditional high schools are at a graduation rate of 86.2 percent, Newsome High has managed to lead the way at 97.5 percent. Armwood High is now boasting of increasing its graduation rate by 8 percentage points to 72.5, while Middleton High increased its graduation rate by 9 percentage points to 74.7. School officials said the increase means that students have more opportunities for post-secondary education, more opportunities for better jobs with higher wages, and more opportunities

to support a family in the future. This benefits the entire community by growing our economy. Superintendent Jeff Eakins said that working together with the School Board he has created a District Strategic Plan where raising the graduation rate continues to be a top priority. “Our graduation rate shows me we care about each child. It shows me we are not going to stop. It shows me we are going to get to every child and make sure they have every opportunity to receive a standard diploma,” Eakins said. School officials were also pleased with the report showing the District’s success of closing the achievement gap between its African American, Hispanic and white students. For more information please visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

Riverview Library Children’s Programming:

Tuesdays Block Party: First Tuesday each month - 4-5 p.m.: Come play with those famous blocks (You know the ones.) Wednesdays Story Time: January 11, 18 and 25 - Pre-school, ages 3- 5 and caregivers) - 10:3011 a.m. - Increasing reading readiness, language skills and socialization through children’s books. Game Zone – January 18, and 25 - 2:30-3:30 p.m. - Come play some fun games on the big screen on Nintendo Wii, including MarioKart, Smash Bros, and more. For kids of all ages. Thursdays Baby Time: January 12, 19 and 26 - (ages 6 -24 mo. and caregivers) - 10:051025 a.m. - Introducing early literacy skills and language development through stories, rhymes and songs in a lap-sit program. Toddler Time: January 12, 19 and 26, - (ages 24-36 mo. and caregivers) - 10:3510:55 a.m.; Stories and songs, highlighting early literacy skills and encouraging reading readiness. ABC’s and 123’s of Yoga: January 12, and 26 (2nd & 3rd Thursdays) - 11-11:30 a.m.; Kids get yoga, too. Lucky Cat Yoga introduces toddlers to basic yoga postures. Bring a towel and wear comfy clothes.

South Bay Hospital Opens $30 Million ICU, Progressive Care Tower

By Tamas Mondovics

South Bay Hospital dignitaries gather to cut the ribbon for the hospital’s new $30 million expansion. The new 30,900 sq. ft. tower was constructed in 18 months providing room for a 14bed Progressive Care service and 12 additional intensive care beds for the most critical patients in Sun City Center and surrounding SouthShore communities.

South Bay Hospital officials, dignitaries, and members of the community gathered last month for a VIP Grand Opening Ceremony of the hospital’s Intensive Care and Progressive Care Unit and new tower. The $30 million construction project began in the summer of 2015 including a 30,900 sq. ft. new patient tower located at 4016 Sun City Center Blvd. in Sun City Center, The expansion consisted of a 26-bed ICU/PCU unit, new front entrance and lobby, new café at the Bay with outdoor seating, gift shop, chapel, expanded parking and covered golf cart parking. “The new patient tower now features all private rooms and include a 14-bed progressive care service and 12 additional intensive care beds on the second floor to service the most critical patients in Sun City Center and surrounding SouthShore communities such as Apollo Beach, Gibsonton, Riverview, Ruskin, Parrish and Wimauma,” said South Bay Hospital CEO, Sharon Roush, The new tower increases the hospital’s bed total to 138, it has also been designed to accommodate future expansion of two floors for an additional 48 beds. “This expansion complements the many services we offer in orthopedics,

cardiology, emergency services, general surgery and supports our ongoing efforts to be a leader in cutting edge, caring and collaborative healthcare,” Roush said. For years, South Bay Hospital has proudly served residents of Sun City Center, Ruskin, Wimauma, Riverview, Apollo Beach, Gibsonton and the surrounding areas as a 112 bed, acute care facility offering a wide range of services, including general and vascular surgery, urology, cardiology, orthopedic, and spine surgery just to name a few. South Bay Hospital is part of HCA West Florida is the Tampa Bay region’s largest healthcare system with 16 hospitals on 18 campuses, 20 ER locations, 14 ambulatory surgery centers, numerous imaging and occupational health sites, physician practices, medical education and teaching programs, regional lab, and consolidated service center. All 16 hospitals are accredited by The Joint Commission and nine hospitals earned distinction as Top Performers on Key Quality Measures last year. HCA West Florida is affiliated with HCA, one of the nation’s leading providers of healthcare services. For more information about South Bay Hospital, please call 634-0172 or visit SouthBayHospital.com.

UMC Of Sun City Center Offers Variety And Volunteer Opportunities

By Amanda Boston

The United ports national and interMethodist Church national causes by disof Sun City Center patching mission teams is a place with open dedicated to changing doors, open hearts lives for Christ. Its and open minds. Disaster Response Team The church makes works in the Southeast a concerted effort region to repair and to embrace all who restore homes and busienter through its UMC of Sun City Center’s Youth Band nesses affected by natudoors, believers and UMC of Sun City Center reaches ral disasters. On an interout to its community by honoring local national level, the church and seekers alike. first responders. Attendees are sends forth missions warmly welcomed with the love of Jesus teams to Cuba, Peru, Uganda, and and the pleasant aromas of a thoughtfully Southeast Asia. For those with musical prepared continental breakfast. UMC interests, the UMC’s Worship Arts invites you to bring your family, friends, Ministry offers involvement opportunities and a hearty appetite. with a 75-voice chancel choir, men and Although nestled in a sleepy retirewomen vocal ensembles, hand bell ment community, the church boasts an ensembles, drama teams, visual arts active and intergenerational congregation. team, youth band, and praise team. Most On Wednesday evenings, it hosts proFriday evenings and some Sunday aftergrams for children and youth, and in the noons, UMC presents affordable concerts summer generates a well-attended and events as part of its Thank God It's Vacation Bible School with over 60 volun- Variety concert series. teers. According to Pat Hill, Director of On Sundays, the church accommoMinistries, “The one thing that sets our dates many styles and time preferences. church apart is our army of volunteers. Beginning on Sunday, January 8, servicFor example, with more than 100 volunes will be held at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. for teers participating, our Congregational contemporary, at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. for Care Ministry reaches out to those that traditional, and at 4 p.m. for a Hispanic are hospitalized or homebound. We delib- service. For information on UMC, call erately try to impact our community and 634-2539, visit www.umcscc.org or the world in a positive way.” Armed with its church directly at 1210 del Webb Blvd. legion of volunteers, the church also supW., Sun City Center.

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Tampa Electric To Demolish Original Striped Chimney At Big Bend Power Plant

Sixth Annual Newland Communities’ Concerts For A Cause Series Nets Thousands In Donations

that the fourth Tampa chimney was built Electric Company in 1999, when the (TECO) has once scrubbers were made headlines installed, stating last month after that since then the announcing the original chimney demolition of its was used only original red-andminimally, adding white-striped chimthat in 2008, the ney at its Big Bend company removed Power Station. the chimney’s steel In a press liner, which had release late TECO officials announced the chimney’s November, comdemolition starting this month, changing the been affected by well recognized landscape. age. pany officials said “With no liner, the chimney made of that the change for the Apollo Beach skypoured reinforced concrete was no longer line will begin in January. useful, and it has not been used since “This will change the landscape,” said TECO Big Bend Station director Ron then,” said TECO spokesperson Cherie Bishop. “Big Bend’s chimneys have been Jacobs. The chimney will be dismantled in landmarks in Apollo Beach for decades.” pieces by a specialized team. The large The 500-ft.-tall chimney, one four pieces of concrete will be removed from standing tall at the plant, was built in inside the structure. The most visible 1968 and painted with red and white work will begin in mid-December and will stripes, as was traditional at the time. It continue through April. served Big Bend Units 1 and 2 for more Tampa Electric, one of Florida’s than three decades. With attention to the well-recognized largest investor-owned electric utilities, serves about 730,000 customers in West landscape, TECO officials emphasized Central Florida. Tampa Electric is a subthat the Big Bend Plant uses the bestsidiary of Emera Inc., a geographically available pollution-control technology, diverse energy and services company which makes it one of the cleanest coalheadquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, burning power plants in the United Canada. For information about TECO, States. In a press release officials mentioned please visit www.tecoenergy.com.

Hundreds of zation’s volunteer concertgoers who operations manattended Newland ager. “Time and time again, our Communities’ residents show sixth annual their extraordinary Concerts for a generosity,” said Cause series and Pam Parisi, Vice Fall Festivals feaPresident of turing local and regional bands at Newland Communities Concerts for a Cause Marketing for series was successful in helping with the fight Newland Waterset and against hunger in our community and in Communities. FishHawk Ranch, assisting Newsome band’s March to the Macy’s Parade. For informanot only helped tion on Waterset, make a difference please call 235-0154 or visit in the fight against hunger in our comwww.watersetfl.com. The FishHawk munity, they also assisted a high Ranch community selected the Lithiaschool marching band in the March to based Seeds of Hope and the the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Newsome High School Marching as In lieu of admission, concertgoers the beneficiaries of donations. “We were asked to bring non-perishable are very appreciative of Newland food items or monetary donations for Communities for selecting Seeds of the three organizations that benefited Hope as a charity for Concerts for a from the events. Waterset concertgoers contributed Cause and grateful to all whom donated,” said Eaton. Newsome High nearly $900, which was donated to School Marching Band was a second Calvary Lutheran Community recipient of concert donations. Thanks Cupboard, an all-volunteer organizato concertgoers and a generous donation and Feeding Tampa Bay affiliate. tion from Newland Communities, the The donation will purchase more than Newsome High School Marching Band 800 lbs. of food for the non-profit received $10,000 for its March to organization, which feeds 2,000 peoMacy’s fund. The band is the first ple a week, primarily in the Apollo Hillsborough County school to be Beach and Ruskin community. selected to for the honor. For informa“Without communities like Waterset we could not feed the people tion on FishHawk Ranch, call 685that we do,” said Jim Wise, the organi- 7500 or visit www.fishhawkranch.com.

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Page 32

Volume 15, Issue 1

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Live A Happier, Healthier Life With Holistic Health And Wellness

A Call To Artists Is Issued For The 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show

Anyone who and healthy suffers from reocrecipes. curring migraines Wadsworth knows the world is offering the folmay consist of lowing classes in dealing with the new year, acute pain and each heavily diswaiting for the counted at up to next time it will 50 percent off interrupt your life. their original These debilitating prices: a free headaches are Healthy Habits 7often accompaDay Challenge nied by light senbeginning sitivity, January 16; a nausea/vomiting, Healthy Eating 5and disorientaDay Jumpstart tion. Some of us for those who are lucky to suffer migraines Lynne Wadsworth, Certified Holistic Health Coach never experience beginning that kind of suffering, but millions are January 23 for $3.97; a 4-week Jump plagued by stress, obesity, and loss of Start program with a Facebook supenergy. Thankfully, there are steps you port group and self-paced weekly can take right now to reduce all of emails beginning January 30 for these problems. Lynne Wadsworth, $29.97; a 4-week Natural Migraine owner of Holistic Health and Wellness Relief Program beginning February 6 and Board Certified Holistic Health which is $247 for a group session and Coach, knows firsthand the benefits of $297 for individualized support, and a natural approach to pain relief. in conjunction with the University of Having experienced chronic migraines South Florida, she is teaching a 4after the birth of her first child, at one week Healthy Living Class for seniors time she believed her life would always February 10. She also became a cerrequire prescription medication to tified wellness cooking instructor and reach normalcy. Wadsworth explains offers healthy cooking classes and that medication simply wasn’t the route seminars on eating healthy while on a she wanted, “I began my own more budget. Wadsworth is confident in natural and holistic search.” these programs: “I don’t put people Her journey took her from selfthrough things I don’t do myself. study to the Institute for Integrative People connect to lose weight and Nutrition where she learned just how have a healthier lifestyle, and in important the food we eat can be to learning what I have learned you get our overall health. “It’s the body-mindthe added benefit of relieving spirit. It’s not going on a diet. It’s a migraines and other pain/inflammalifestyle change that bring about tion, stress relief, better sleep, and changes,” Wadsworth shares. The overall better quality of life.” changes she made not only reduced For information on classes startthe frequency and severity of her ing in 2017, read the books and litermigraines, but they helped her achieve ature she has authored, and reach healthy weight loss, increased her out for immediate wellness coaching, energy, and reduced her stress levels. contact Wadsworth at 340-1368 or by She knew she had to share what she email at lwadsworth@verizon.net. Infound with others, especially those person meetings from her home in struggling to wean themselves off of Valrico, a local neutral location, or medications who need the type of through teleconferencing are availextended support beyond hospital able by request Monday-Thursday rehabilitation programs: “I don’t do this from 5:30PM-8PM and weekends by for the dollar sign. I know it can work appointment. More information, sesand that people can reach what I have sions, and pricing are also available reached.” She offers individual and on her website, holisticgroup sessions tailored to help you healthandwellness.com/ and on facewalk your individual path with health book.com/holistichealthandwellnesswhich include live support sessions, llc/ and facebook.com/migrainesupemail support and weekly newsletters, portholistichealth/.

Artists can mail the entry form and fees to EHAG, P.O. Box 3055, Plant City, FL 33563. Artwork is to be delivered on Friday, February 24 from 12 noon to 6 p.m. For anyone who is entering the show, it is crucial that you carefully review the rules prior to entering. Artists can enter up to three Artists, young and old, are pieces of art. There is an entry invited to submit original fee for each piece. There are works of art to the 2017 four Adult Professional Divisions, Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show held on the four Adult Amateur Divisions and Strawberry Festival divisions for Adult Miniature and Fairgrounds in Plant City from Thursday, March 2 Adult Sculpture. through Sunday, March 12. You will be joined by artists such as Brooke Stefanelli, who won the 2016 Youth, ages six to 17, are Suncoast Credit Union Purchase Award for her paint- encouraged to take part in the ing, Royal Fun For Everyone. Florida Strawberry Festival Fine A Call to Artists has been issued by Art Show. the East Hillsborough Art Guild (EHAG) Crumley said, “We especially want to for the 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival encourage students to enter and spread Fine Art Show which will run from their wings. The experience lets them Thursday, March 2 to Sunday, March 12. learn about competition and how to disThe Fine Art Show will be held in the play their work. The Youth Division has an Milton E. Hull Building on the Strawberry option of allowing them to mail their 8.5” x Festival Fairgrounds. 11” paper entries ONLY by Sunday, Karen Crumley is chair of the Florida February 12 along with their entry form Strawberry Festival Fine Arts Show. and fee of $5 per entry. If they do not mail Crumley encourages artists, young and the entry, they can bring it to the festival old, professional and amateur, to enter grounds on Friday, February 24 from 12 original works of art in the 2017 show. noon to 6 p.m.” It should be noted that if Crumley said, “The Florida Strawberry students opt for the hand delivery of their Festival draws a huge audience, and the artwork, they still have send their entry chance for local artists to have their work form and fee in the mail by Sunday, viewed is tremendous.” February 12. This year's show will be a grand The entry forms and rules can be event with nearly $5,000 available in found at www.FLstrawberryfestival.com. prizes. If you have any additional questions, While this is not a juried show, there please email Crumley at is limited space. Early entries are being kscrumley@yahoo.com or call 924-3829. accepted through Sunday, February 12.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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Osprey Observer Celebrates 15 Years

The first edition of the Osprey Observer, Jan 2002.

Many of the current Osprey Observer team celebrating with a 15th Anniversary luncheon.

It was 15 years ago this month that the Osprey Observer was delivered to the first homes in FishHawk Ranch. The concept was simple, publish positive, local, community news and deliver it directly to the communities that it covers. The very first month, the Osprey Observer Newspaper was hand-delivered to 750 homes in FishHawk Ranch. The second month, the newspaper was hand-delivered by children and inserted into the Brandon-Valrico Journal. By month 3, the Osprey Observer was printed at M&M Printing in Ruskin and direct-mailed by the United States Postal Service. Within 6 months, the newspaper was delivered into 10,000 local homes

One of the first ribbon cuttings for the Osprey Observer offices in 2005 with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.

and was printed by Within 3 years, we a large commercial started the Riverview printer in edition and quickly Clearwater where added Apollo Beach we continue to print while realizing the today, Web Offset. future growth potential During the early for S.E. Hillsborough years, I used to County and then added pack my then the Valrico edition and youngest son into finally the Brandon the family mini-van edition. and drive to In 2009, the Osprey Clearwater-- to not Observer purchased only deliver the CD the, now 20-year-old Photo courtesy TamSand Photography that the newspaper local Christian Voice Happy New Year From was burned on--but The Gilmore Boys! newspaper and have to then pick up the expanded its reach and newspapers and deliver them, bundle distribution throughout the communiby bundle to the bulk mail delivery ty. area of each of the local post offices. In addition to the monthly newsBy the time the first year had papers, we engage with our readers passed, we realized it would make via our website, social media, eBlast more sense to pay the printer's mailing newsletter and with our offices cenhouse, Direct Web to bundle and trally located in Brandon. deliver the papers to the post office. We have always wanted to be the

voice of good news in the community and we are happy to share community success stories.' The Osprey Observer is one hundred percent supported by local advertisers and small businesses. In addition to being a community hub of information, the Osprey Observer has an incredible team of staff--many of which have been with the newspaper for years and have become familiar faces in the community. We also have to thank our readers who not only read about their community but also get involved in making a difference. We thank you for reading and look forward to publishing community news for many more years to come! To contact our offices, call 657-2418 or email me directly at editor@ospreyobserver.com. Wishing you all the best!â&#x20AC;&#x2C6; Marie Gilmore, Managing Editor

Page 34

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 1

Year in Review- Updates on the Top Stories from 2016

Sheriff’s Office To Add Additional New District To Meet Future Growth Hillsborough County has seen a wide range of proposed projects in 2016, addressing land use and transportation issues, but one proposed project was equally well received by residents, especially those living within the boundary of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office District 4. In September, the Sheriff’s Office announced the addition of a fifth district to accommodate future growth. Specific details about location off the new office and staff is still being refined but residents can expect the official operation of the new district A map of Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office patrol districts shows the addition of District V, which the departoffice in early spring of ment has proposed to launch next spring. 2017. Progress Village, Lithia, FishHawk and Original Story printed Bloomingdale. September 2016 “The change is necessary due to To meet the current needs and in what is going on in District IV,” said order to accommodate future growth, Major Robert Bullara, who replaced the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s former District IV commander retiring Office (HCSO) has made preparations Major Ron Hartley in 2015. “We have to add a fifth district to its service. nearly 1,000 people moving to The addition of a new district, Hillsborough County each month, most which will specifically affect and them to communities in District IV. of reshape District IV, the department’s Currently we have 34 active subdivilargest district is scheduled to begin sions.” serving residents in April or May 2017 When ready, the new district led is hardly a surprise. its new commander, Major Kyle by Within its more than 400 square Robinson, will border communities miles, District IV, serves nearly north of the Alafia River, such as 300,000 residents in the communities Progress Village, Bloomingdale and of Ruskin, Riverview, Apollo Beach,

By Tamas Mondovics

rently under construction in Gibsonton and Progress Village, will draw even more people to the area. Now is the time to get ahead of this.” Bullara said that since last year, 2,500 new single-family home permits have been pulled, showing Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office District IV Major Robert Bullara talks to residents at the Bloomingdale Community Substation about no signs of the department's recently proposed addition of a new patrol district. slowing down. While promnorthern Riverview along with its subising a smooth transition, Bullara, said stations. that the department is working on hirDistrict IV will continue to serve ing 100 deputies by the end of the communities south of the river, Lithia, year to fill all necessary positions for FishHawk, Gibsonton, Apollo Beach, the new district office, which will be Ruskin, and southern Riverview located across from HCSO’s District II including Balm, Wimauma and Sun facility on Falkenburg Road. City Center. The major anticipates losing some During a recent neighborhood of his deputies to the new district, meeting, which is held monthly at the while the rest of the staff will come Bloomingdale Community Substation, from patrol districts I,II, and III. Bullara put things into perspective As to the future of the when he emphasized the effects of the Bloomingdale Community Substation growth within his district and what following the opening of the new disneeds to be done. trict office, Bullara could not say for “Traffic issues are the future,” he sure, but was confident it will remain said adding, “Big Bend Road is like open to serve its residents when he State Road 60, and is just tough to get said, “I don't think this station will be around. New schools and the constricclosed, at least not for another year.” tion of new schools and subdivisions, For more information, visit not to mention two new theaters curwww.hcso.tampa.fl.us.

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Page 35

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Year in Review- Updates on the Top Stories from 2016 Developer To Install New Traffic Light At Bloomingdale Square Plaza

Randall & Barrington Middle Schools Offer Counseling To Military Kids & Families

congested roadway. According to Hillsborough County Transportation Program Manager and Traffic Engineer, Robert Campbell, installation of the new signal located at the second entrance to the plaza approximately 900 feet west of Bell Motorists struggle with heavy traffic on Bloomingdale Avenue Shoals Road in front of as they make their way in and out of the Bloomingdale Chipotle Mexican Grill Square Plaza. and Dunkin Doughnuts Motorists routinely traveling on restaurants on the south and north side of Bloomingdale Ave. were not surprised Avenue, respectively, is Bloomingdale last June, to see the start of a new trafscheduled to begin this summer. fic light installation project at the north The private project is initiated, entrance of the Bloomingdale Square financed and organized by Bloomingdale Plaza, located at 889 East Square Plaza owner and developer Bloomingdale Ave, in Brandon. Regency Centers Corporation, a real County officials estimated the investment trust based in estate duration of the project between four to Jacksonville. Regency Centers LP is one six months and were not disappointthe largest operators of groceryof ing as the new signal became fully anchored shopping centers. operational in late November. Boasting of more than three dozen Original Story printed July 2016 stores, the Bloomingdale Square Plaza Hillsborough County traffic engineerseen some major changes in recent has ing officials recently approved the installatimes including the closing of Walmart, tion of a new signal to ease traffic flow in which has anchored the shopping center and out of Bloomingdale Square Plaza at since it opened nearly 30 years ago. 889 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. More recent additions to the plaza’s With the now infamously heavy traffic roster of stores and retailers includes on Bloomingdale Avenue between Lithia Monger, Title Boxing and Burger Pinecrest Road and U.S. 301 as the norm—especially during rush hour, which Jeremiah's Italian Ice, to name a few. From start to finish, county engineers officially renders the avenue a failed are estimating the duration of the project road—the installation of additional signals between four to six months. Visit comes as no surprise for motorists roubit.ly/29zXUAU. tinely making use of the accident-prone,

Military families Military and Family who have recently Life Counselor moved to the area (CYB-MFLC) prowere pleased to see gram, which plays a an article last year key role in giving milabout a provision to itary children the help them cope with support they may the demands posed need during some of on them by military the more challenging life. periods. Most vulnerable Contracted by are the children who the Hillsborough have to adjust not County Public just to a new home Schools, children of Counselor Tammy Alsing, left is welcombut also a new military families who ing military mom Nikki Hall to Randall Middle School. Hall recently moved to school. attend Barrington FishHawk from Alabama. To assist the and Randall Middle challenges, the Department of Defense Schools have been enjoying the federally (DoD), provides a Child and Youth funded services of one such counselor, Behavioral Military and Family Life Tammy Alsing. Counselor (CYB-MFLC) program, givSpecializing in child and behavioral ing military children the support they issues, Alsing brings years of experience may need. at no cost to the more than 100 military Barrington and Randall Middle children at Barrington. Randall currently Schools have been enjoying the feder- boasts of 150 military children. ally funded services of one such coun“We cover a wide variety of issues selors, Tammy Alsing. the students are dealing with at school or Hillsborough County Public at home, both on and off campus,” Alsing Schools officials said that the program said. “My hope is that parents and the students are aware of the support that has been enjoying great success and are provided for them exclusively.” will likely expand to more schools in Each week, Barrington Middle the future. School military children and families may Original Story printed Oct 2016 take advantage of Alsing’s expertise on Every member of a military family Mondays and Tuesdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 knows all too well the wide variety of p.m. On Wednesdays, Thursdays and issues imposed on them by military life. Fridays, Alsing’s services are utilized at But coping with these demands may be Randall. For more information, about most difficult for the family’s children and to help, the Department of Defense (DoD) Hillsborough County Public Schools, please visit www. sdhc.k12.fl.us. funds the Child and Youth Behavioral

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Page 36

Volume 15, Issue 1

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Year in Review- Updates on the Top Stories from 2016 District Proposes Boundary Changes For Stowers, Bevis And Pinecrest Elementary Schools For 2016-2017 Season

By Tamas Mondovics

Surprising no one, Hillsborough County Public School officials announced a number of boundary changes, in hopes of offering some relief to the overcrowding in area schools. On the elementary school level, changes involved local schools such as Stowers, Bevis, Pinecrest, forcing parents to make some adjustments. HCPS also sought changes for Boyette Springs Elementary Schools at a later date. While in the middle of one of the most ambitious cost saving effort, and continued countywide population growth, school officials said that the changes are far from over. For information parents are asked to visit the District’s website at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. Original Story printed Feb 2016 Given the continued growth in the southeastern part of Hillsborough County, boundary changes offering relief to the overcrowding in area schools is inevitable. The last time Hillsborough County Public Schools officials addressed the topic was ahead of the 2015-2016 school year affecting area high school students. According to school officials, it was now time to propose an attendance boundary change on the elementary school level, involving Stowers, Bevis, Pinecrest and at a later date, Boyette Springs Elementary Schools. To reach parents locally and get some input, school officials scheduled

Hillsborough County Public Schools have proposed an attendance and boundary change affecting students at Stowers, Bevis, Boyette Springs and Pinecrest Elementary Schools.

an open house, public meeting last month at Stowers Elementary School. According to County Schools Growth Management and Planning, General Manager Lorraine Duffy-Suarez, the proposal has focused on providing relief to Stowers, which currently has a student count of 1,058 with a seating capacity of 972. “While balancing enrollments, the proposed reassignment of Stowers Elementary students to Bevis and Pinecrest will provide a temporary relief to Stowers,” Suarez said, adding that the change will not impact students currently assigned to Bevis, or Pinecrest Elementary Schools but will make room for future growth at the Stowers campus. The reassignment from Stowers to

Bevis and Pinecrest will be recommended to the School Board for the 2016-17 season, later this year. Students residing within the areas of change shown on the map are proposed to be reassigned for the school year beginning August 2016. After public comment and additional research, district officials have also decided to recommend to the School Board that the area proposed to be reassigned from Stowers to Boyette Springs be placed on hold and reevaluated next school year due to a of number factors, including the launch of the Center for Gifted Studies which will increase enrollment at the Boyette Springs campus. HCPS officials have also announced

the opening of a brand new elementary school “C,” which has not been named yet, but is slated to open in the Triple Creek area in 2017. “This new school is to relieve Summerfield, Summerfield Crossings and Collins Elementary Schools,” said HCPS Spokesperson Tanya Arja. “We will discuss the boundaries for that school and may look at a small part of the existing Stowers boundaries.” Student reassignments from Stowers to Boyette Springs Elementary (including those areas contained within the original staff proposal) will continue to be reevaluated during the drafting of the new attendance boundaries for elementary “C.” Decreasing enrollments at Stowers during the redistricting plan for the 20172018 school year will also be monitored. Students attending another school through a Choice, Magnet, or Charter School can continue at their currently enrolled school. Exceptional Student Education (ESE) services and the HOST program currently offered at each of the schools will continue to be offered. The district’s transportation department will determine those neighborhoods that will be eligible for bus transportation and those neighborhoods where students will walk to school. For more information and updates visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. To submit questions and comments, email to boundaries@sdhc.k12.fl.us.To receive a return phone call, include phone number in the email message or call 272-4608.

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Page 37

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Year in Review- Updates on the Top Stories from 2016 County Delays Bloomingdale, Culbreath Intersection Improvements Until After Holidays

By Tamas Mondovics

improve traffic flow for the Bloomingdale Avenue and Culbreath Road intersection. The public information meeting held early December was in an open house format at the Bloomingdale Regional Library’s brand new meeting room at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Hillsborough County Public Works officials and engi- Valrico, and explained the neers talk to residents about the upcoming specifics of the $1.4 million conBloomingdale and Culbreath intersection project. struction as well as the reason for the County’s decision to delay As anticipated, 2016 saw a wide the project start until the beginning of the range of traffic related improvements new year. with many more to come. One of such “We have decided to wait with conprojects was the Culbreath Rd. and struction until after the holidays,” said Bloomingdale Ave. intersection Bayside Engineering Transportation improvements, which took place earliProject Manager, Jordan Caviggia. er in the year, after years of delay. Caviggia added that it seemed best The project focused on signalizato hold off the project for another month tion improvements, as well as adding due to the extra traffic during the holidays an eastbound right turn lane and a along with the current construction on second westbound left turn lane on Bloomingdale Avenue in connection with Bloomingdale Ave.; northbound dedithe Walmart Supercenter just west of the cated left and right turn lanes and Bloomingdale and Culbreath intersection. southbound right turn lane on “This job has been under design and Culbreath Road into the Campo YMCA consideration for the past five years,” he located South of Bloomingdale Ave. said. “We are looking at starting construcMotorists are generally pleased with the improvements although some tion in the second week of January 2016.” Officials ensured residents that traffic expressed the need to pay close attenflow will remain open during construction tion to the consistent and at time in both directions on Bloomingdale heavier traffic flow in and out of the Avenue, but that closing of one-lane in YMCA facility, and the nearby baseball each direction will be necessary for workand softball fields. ers’ safety. Original Story printed Jan 2016 Work is expected to be completed in Area residents recently had a chance to meet with County public works officials, mid-2016. Information presented at the engineers and project managers to get an meeting is also available at www.Hillsborough County.org. update on the status of the project to

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Builders, architects, community members and the finance team gathered to mark the occasion. “It is not every day that a new community like Twin Creeks begins construction,” said David Ammons, founder and partner of Enriched Community Development, A groundbreaking was recently held for Twin Creeks LLC. “We are honored to mark Senior Living in the River Springs Plaza near FishHawk. this occasion and grateful to One of the years most anticipated the partners and friends that joined us and largest construction projects in today.” Riverview, benefiting senior residents Enriched Community Development, began with a traditional the groundLLC, a Tampa-based developer of senior breaking of Twin Creeks Senior Living. living communities, closed on the conThe promised 11-month long projstruction financing in March. ECD is a ect is clearly on schedule as the two partnership between local senior living story building located adjacent to the developer, Tom Dentinger, and North River Springs Plaza at the corner of Carolina-based Retirement Living FishHawk Blvd. and Boyette Rd., is Associates, Inc. RLA, Inc. manages and quickly taking shape with a scheduled develops several different types of senior opening in early 2017. living communities throughout the Offering a wide variety of ameniSoutheast. An investment group headed ties within a welcoming neighborhood, by Robert D. Gries, Jr., founder and manthe new facility is promising to aging director of Gries Investment Funds become a great addition to the growis an equity partner in the project. RLA, ing Riverview community. Inc. will oversee management of the comOriginal Story printed June 2016 munity once Twin Creeks is complete. Twin Creeks Senior Living broke Residents also will enjoy exercise ground recently at the rear of the River areas and beautifully landscaped outdoor Springs Plaza at the corner of FishHawk spaces. Home choices will include comBlvd. and Boyette Rd. and is expected to panion suites, studios, and one-bedroom open in early spring of 2017. apartments. The two-story building will include 80 Beverly-Grant, Inc., an award winning assisted living and memory care apartdesign-build firm that specializes in health ments in addition to generous common care construction, is the general contracarea spaces and outdoor living areas for tor. Call 919-783-0735 ext. 5 or email residents. morgan@rlainc.com.

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Page 38

Volume 15, Issue 1

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Year in Review- Updates on the Top Stories from 2016 County Presents Four Potential Sites For New Riverview Library Replacement: Final Choice Is Balm River Road, Across From Camp Cristina

By Tamas Mondovics

Hillsborough County officials turned their focus on expanding or replacing the existing the more than 35-year old 8,000 square feet library in Riverview, located at 10509 Riverview Drive. After a series of public meetings and community input four new sites were selected for consideration. County officials eventually chose the site located on Balm River Road just south Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library system’s of Boyette Road, across new director Andrew S. Breidenbaugh talks to residents during a recent public meeting about the from the Y’s Camp Cristina, replacement of the Riverview Branch Library. just east of U.S. 301, near voice their concerns, which have conRiverview High School. The new firmed patrons’ desires to see a much facility is a $7 million a 25,000 sq ft, larger updated facility, and has one story building with plenty of prompted County officials to offer a parking. list of potential locations for a brand Construction of the new library new building within the borders of the is currently expected to begin Riverview community. sometime in early spring of 2017 The list was narrowed down to with completion in late 2018 or early four potential sites with the majority of 2019. For more information or to send responses—mainly for its convenient input residents may call 273-3652 or location—favoring a little more than seven-acre site on Hackney Drive, email libraryinformation@hillsborjust east of U.S. 301 and north of the oughcounty.org. Alafia River, which is nearly eight Original Story printed May 2016 Hillsborough County Public Library miles from the current library at 10509 Riverview Dr. officials have been working diligently The other three locations for conwith the community to gain input as to the location, size, as well as amenities sideration include two potential sites on Mathog Road, and west of U.S. they want to see in a future expanded 301 and south of the Alafia, close to library in Riverview. For the past few the Kid’s Community College charter months residents had a chance to school. The fourth location is on Balm attend a number of public meetings to

Library officials said the new site will accommodate a new possibly 2025,000 sq, ft., facility, with room to expand, featuring plenty of room for technology instruction, public meetings and a children’s library. “The entire board of county commissioners are supporting this project and we want you to determine the services, the characteristics and amenities that are befitting the Riverview community,” said Commissioner Ken Hagan. The estimated total cost of the project is $7 million. While county officials estimate the new building completion date for mid to late 2018, library project manager Janet Marnatti would not speculate on when to expect a decision on the

Riverview Road, south of the Alafia and east of U.S. 301, within walking distance of Riverview High School. A new location is the first step in the process as the 8,000 sq. ft. and 35 year-old current building is outdated and too small for the increased customer use accompanied by new development in the area in recent years.

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Page 39

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Year in Review- Updates on the Top Stories from 2016

New Walmart Supercenter On Bloomingdale Avenue Opens On March 9

By Tamas Mondovics

The once, hard fought battle against the Bloomingdale Walmart Supercenter, in Valrico is not much more today, than a faded memory for most local residents. The 153,000 sq., ft, store opened last spring with a traditional celebratory ribbon cutting ceremony, while festive back round music was provided by the Bloomingdale High School marching band. New Walmart Supercenter Manager Peter While, the new store anchoring Peck and customer service supervisor Cassandra Brown pose for photo ahead of the 43-acre Crest Pointe Towne the official grand opening of the newly Shoppes gets busier and busier, constructed store inside Crest Pointe Towne several already confirmed businessCenter Shoppes on Bloomingdale Ave. es to occupy the frontage of the 400 full and part-time associates in welplaza such as Starbucks and Chick-filcoming the community. (Peck has since A, are nearing completion. retired from Walmart). Wendy’s restaurant has quietly The new 153,000 sq., ft, opened its doors in September, while Supercenter, located at 2140 Tijuana Flats and Mattress Firm are yet Bloomingdale Ave. just west of Lithia to get started. Pinecrest Road, will anchor Crest Pointe There remains nearly 2.89 acres Towne Shoppes, a 43-acre mixed use still available for additional businesses development project by Redstone to be built. The property also has 14 Investments. acres apportioned for a residential On opening day, the new store will development. officially replace its much smaller predeOriginal Story printed March cessor just down the road inside the 2016 Bloomingdale Square Plaza, which has Three years after its first rumored served the community for the past 30 construction in the heart of the years and was managed by Peck for the Bloomingdale community, the new past 10. Walmart Supercenter is ready to open its The new store is promising a larger doors on Wednesday, March 9 at 7:30 assortment of merchandise in electronics, a.m., bringing a broad assortment of fresh furniture, sporting goods, home improvegroceries and general merchandise at its ment, apparel, toys along with a full line of signature value. fabrics and a pet department to name a “This is a store with the same low few. prices and a new address,” said Store Open 24 hours a day, seven days a Manager Peter Peck, a 20-year Walmart week, the Supercenter is a full grocery veteran, who is leading the more than store with fresh produce, meat and pantry

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staples, a full-service deli and instore bakery offering custom cakes and fresh baked breads. “We will also carry local products like Plant City Strawberries,” Peck proudly said. According to officials, the store has no outside leased ven-

dors such as restaurants, banks or a nail salon inside the building, but utilizes the space to feature a number of convenient on-site services such as full service vision and pharmacy with a free store pickup service providing an easy way to shop millions of products on Walmart.com, with many items available for pickup the same day. Automotive products will also be offered, minus the traditional tire center. Peck said that the additional space is utilized by the extended garden center and a much larger seasonal department. While on the surface the new store appears pretty much the same as all the rest, with one important element that Peck and his associates worked hard to

provide to local customers over the years. “We are serving the same community, including many of our customers we call by name, who rely on low prices as well as a quick and friendly service they were used to at the old store,” Peck said. “We intend to continue that tradition. This is not just another big box store, but a place with a family atmosphere. I want our customers to be happy and to receive the same service they have enjoyed at the old store.” Peck rests his confidence in a solid line of longtime associates including Gerri Kanahan, who was there to open the Bloomingdale Square Plaza store in 1986, and now has a chance to welcome her friends, family and area residents for another grand opening celebration. “I am so excited to be going to the new store,” Kanahan said. “I opened this store 30 years ago and now I get to open our new Supercenter.” Opening day festivities will include a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 9 followed by a family fun day on Saturday, March 12, giving customers a chance to meet Peck, and his management team as well as enjoy activities and free food samples while supplies last. The celebration is scheduled from 12 Noon-3 p.m. Demonstrating commitment to the community, a presentation of $8,000 in grants from the Walmart Foundation to local community groups are also scheduled prior to official opening. Additional information about Walmart can be found at corporate.walmart.com on Facebook at facebook.com/walmart and on Twitter at twitter.com/walmart. www.walmart.com, www.samsclub.com.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 1