Bloomingdale/FishHawk
C E L E B R A T I N G
46
March 2019 Volume 18, Issue 3 Ph: 657-2418
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Y E A R S
O F
P U B L I S H I N G
Lithia Residents Find Perfect Home With HGTV House Hunters By Kate Quesada
C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
Local Teachers Receive County-Wide Recognition At Annual Awards
By Kate Quesada
Three local teachers received well-deserved recognition recently through the Excellence in Education Awards from the Hillsborough Education Foundation and Hillsborough County Public Schools. Sandra Misciasci, a reading teacher at Newsome High School, received the group’s 2019 Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year; Scott Hottenstein, social studies teacher at Barrington Middle School, was a finalist in the Teacher of the Year category; and Jordan Luke Harris, custodian at Stowers Elementary School, was a finalist for the Instructional Support Employee of the Year category. According to Hannah Resendiz, Communications and Public Relations Coordinator with the Hillsborough Education Foundation, 686 teachers and staff were nominated in the three categories and 13 nominees were chosen as finalists. “The 13 finalists represent the best of the best in Hillsborough County Public Schools,” said Resendiz. “The Foundation is proud to support the district in the promotion and fundraising of this event. We can not emphasize enough how important our teachers are and the tremendous impact they have on our students, so this is a night when we honor them.” Nominees for the awards are chosen at their schools and applications for each nominee are then passed on to the district. The district staff then reviews all applications and identifies those requesting to participate in the district-level competition. Those applicants are reviewed by individual Award Selection Committees
Harris
and the 13 finalists are chosen. The finalists are interviewed by the superintendent and the finalists selection committee and the winners are announced at the annual Excellence in Education Awards event. “The awards selection committee is made up of members of the Principal Councils, Supervisory Council and district staff subject matter experts,” said Resendiz. “The finalist selection committee, consisting of district staff and representatives from the Hillsborough Education Foundation and award sponsoring companies, interviews each finalist and selects the awards winner in each category.” “The awards event recognizes all Hillsborough County Public School employees who demonstrate a passion for excellence in education,” said Resendiz. For more about the Hillsborough Education Foundation, visit www.educationfoundation.com.
Hottenstein
Misciasci
In This Issue RELAYS FOR LIFE ................................PG 4 NEW CALENDAR OF EVENTS..............PG 5 BUSCH GARDENS FOOD & WINE .......PG 9 TOOTHLESS MONSTER.....................PG 10 THE PIGEON AT GLAZER...................PG 12 PEDAL POWER .................................PG 13 SPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 32‐33 CHALKLINES .....................................PG 30 MOTORING ......................................PG 39
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A Lithia famiwas everything ly made its my children and national televiI wanted and sion debut last needed and that month after an our search was exciting move. over.” Franka Potter The team and her four chilfilmed for five dren were feadays and, tured on HGTV’s according to popular television Potter, the post show House production, editHunters finding ing, approvals their new home and script took in FishHawk. eight months to Potter, who complete. was moving to “The show the Tampa area was like the from the British icing on the Virgin Islands cake,” she FishHawk resident Franka Potter and her family were following a said. “We were recently featured on HGTV’s House Hunters. divorce from her able to docuhusband of 15 years, was approached by ment this beautiful, exciting and new her realtor asking if she would be interest- experience. It was a joy for the children ed in being on the show. and their new friends as well.” “I said yes, and everything went from Potter and her family moved into the there,” she said. home July 1, 2018 and are so far very When looking for a house happy there. in the Tampa area, Potter told “The schools are amazing,” her realtor that she would like she said. “The parental involveto find a beautiful, safe home ment is amazing. There are with four to five bedrooms, amazing facilities with low two to three bathrooms, an open-plan livturnover rates, beautiful scenery and we ing room, yard and home office in a great even have a beautiful peacock family of school district, as her children range in eight birds living close by.” age from 6 to 14 years old. The family can be found enjoying the “I started out looking at three commu- nature trails and visiting the shops, nities in the Wesley Chapel area; while restaurants and activities in Brandon. they were beautiful, they did not meet the “I enjoy the lakes and the waterways, exact needs for my family,” said Potter. as they remind me of island life in the “My realtor asked if I was willing to travel Caribbean,” said Potter. a little further as she thought Lithia would To learn more about House Hunters provide all I wanted and more as a newly and the schedule of showings, visit single mom. On the first visit, I knew it www.hgtv.com.
P O S I T I V E
Bloomingdale’s Relay For Life event will take place at the school’s track, located at 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, from Friday, April 26 at 6 p.m. through Saturday, April 27 at 6 a.m. Newsome High School, located at 16550 FishHawk Blvd., is one of the few 18 hour Heritage Events and will start at 12 Noon on Saturday, March 30 and end at 6 a.m., Sunday, March 31. See Full Story on Page 4.
Serving Our Customers in 4 Locations: Lithia • Big Bend, Riverview • 301, Riverview • Sun City Center
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
March 2019
Page 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
FishHawk Student Receives Trip Through Children’s Dream Fund
By Kate Quesada
Six-year-old provides cost-free Gavin Shreeve has vacations to children a wonderful, wellwith critical illnesses earned surprise in and their families. store. The FishHawk The families are proCreek first grade stuvided with accommodent was recently dations, transportagranted a wish to tion, tickets to theme spend a week at parks, meals, daily Give Kids the World entertainment and in Orlando through more. the Children’s Christina, who Dream Fund, a local left her job as a first organization that grade teacher after makes dreams 10 years to manage come true for chilGavin’s medical care dren suffering with Six year old Gavin Shreeve was recently and now runs a bowlife-threatening and making business out granted a wish from the Children’s Dream Fund. chronic diseases. of her home, is planGavin was diagnosed at two years ning a surprise reveal party to tell Gavin old with Grade 4 Hydronephrosis due to about his wish at Kidtopia in Lithia. Grade 4 Vesicoureteral Reflux as well as “We are beyond blessed to be a duplicated renal system. He has under- Gavin’s parents,” said Christina. “He is gone many surgeries, tests and different the strongest six-year-old I know. He is treatment plans and is currently receiving compassionate, kindhearted and braver Remicade infusions monthly at Johns than most. Some days are tough and I Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, where he cry a lot in private, but we have a great was diagnosed with Autoimmune team of doctors and I know we can find a Hepatitis as well as severe Crohn's cure for Gavin.” Disease. The family also does a lot to give “This is a brief snapshot of Gavin’s back to others who are suffering. They medical history and doesn’t scratch the participate in Take Steps Tampa, which surface,” said Christina. “He is a tough supports the Crohn’s and Colitis kiddo who endures a lot.” Foundation, and donate toys every year Last month, Christina found out that to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Gavin had been nominated for, and chothrough their Braver Than Most Toy sen to receive, a wish from the Children’s Drive. Dream Fund. “When you have a child with a “We met with the Dream Coordinator chronic medical condition, the appointwho explained all the possible dreams, ments and medications never end,” said including travel, a swing set, a playroom, Christina. “We have met our maximum to meet a celebrity or visit Give Kids the out of pocket costs five years in a row World,” said Christina. “Gavin immediatenow. We are thankful for insurance, but ly loved the idea of Give Kids the World there is a lot that it doesn’t cover.” and even though it is located in Orlando To learn more about Christina’s busiand we have been to Disney before, it will ness, Bridge Bowtique, visit www.facetruly be a magical week for him.” book.com/bridgebowtique. More informaGive Kids the World is an 84-acre, tion about Children’s Dream Fund can be non-profit resort in Central Florida that found at www.childrensdreamfund.org.
FishHawk Strong Hits Goal & Raises More Than $30,000 For Relay For Life A group of FishHawk residents have been working hard to help in the fight against cancer. FishHawk Strong, a Relay For Life team lead by Bob Abruzzese, recently surpassed its $30,000 fundraising goal and is not stopping A group of FishHawk there. residents, FishHawk A local realStrong, reached their $30,000 fundraising tor, Abruzzese, goal for Relay for Life began participatlast month. ing in Relay For Life, one of the American Cancer Society’s signature fundraising events, in 2011 after losing his mother to pancreatic cancer in 2005. “I love the Relay For Life event Newsome High School puts on,” he said. “I always see the very best of all the people involved.” Three years ago he became serious about fundraising and collected more than $5,000 in three weeks by asking businesses to donate after being featured on the community Facebook page he runs. Last year, he raised more than $10,000 and was named the number one individual fundraiser in Hillsborough County. “That was great, but now I wanted to do more,” he said. “I decided to get a real team together to run different fund raising
By Kate Quesada
events and really push to raise funds.” He found out that the most money ever raised by a FishHawk team was $27,000, so he set his team’s goal for $30,000. “I knew that was an extremely high number, but I put together a great team of individuals and businesses, and as the team grew, many more businesses jumped on board with us,” he said. Through events including a Halloween party, fashion show, bingo night, sports watch parties and monetary donations, the 31-member team reached its goal last month and is hoping to get to $40,000 or even $50,000 by the time fundraising for the event closes in August. “I hope that someday, with the money we raise, someone will find a cure for this dreaded disease,” said Abruzzese. To learn more about Relay For Life, see a full story on page 4. FishHawk Strong events are posted regularly on the group’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/FishHawkStrong and donations can be made at www.FishHawkStrong.com. To join the team, email Abruzzese at fishhawkstrong@yahoo.com.
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Page 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
Local High Schools Make Big Impact By Hosting Relay Events
By Kate Quesada
Bloomingdale and Newsome high schools are inviting community members to join them fight cancer at their annual Relay For Life events this month and next. On Saturday, March 30, students and community members will join teams at Newsome High School to walk, camp overnight and participate in other activities to raise funds for the American Cancer Society (A.C.S.), while the relay at Bloomingdale High School, with similar events, will take place on Friday, April 26. “Relay For Life is crucial to the mission of ACS because the funds raised through our events help to support the programs, services and research efforts that we provide in our communities,” said Alexandra Klomparens, Senior Event Support Manager. “Without the incredible support we receive through Relay For Life, not only financially but in overall support and dedication from our volunteers, we would not have been able to make the impact we have in the fight against cancer.” Forty-seven teams, with varying numbers of members, are signed up to participate in the Newsome event, and currently 28 teams are slated to attend at Bloomingdale. Team members range from children to 75-year-olds. The fundraising goal for the Bloomingdale event is $70,000 and the
goal for the Newsome relay is $140,000. “I think that Relay For Life see such great participation because, sadly, nearly everyone is impacted by cancer,” said Klomparens. “Whether they are a survivor, caregiver or know someone who has been diagnosed, cancer touches almost everyone in some capacity.” The events are not traditional relays, although teams are asked to have one participant walking the track at all times, even through the night. When not walking, there are many events for participants to chose from to keep busy and raise important funds. “With Relay For Life offering so many opportunities and levels of involvement to the community, I think people are drawn to wanting to participate in the event,” said Klomparens. “Whether it is by starting a team, becoming a sponsor, volunteering
to help with the planning and organizing, attending as a survivor or caregiver, or just coming out to walk some laps and support the day of activities, there is truly a way for everyone in the community to get involved.” Each event has a theme which participants use for costumes, fundraising games and items, decorations for their camp sites and themed laps during the event. The Newsome event’s theme is Cure Around the USA with teams each representing one of the states, and Bloomingdale will feature national holidays as its theme. One highlight of the event is the Luminaria Ceremony that typically starts at 9 p.m. and showcases luminaria bags lit in memory or in honor of loved ones. Each event will also have a variety of food sold by the teams, including Chick-
fil-A, walking tacos, baked goods, chili and breakfast foods. The teams also host games, raffle baskets, silent auctions and obstacle courses. All money raised at the event goes to ACS’s mission to save lives, celebrate lives and lead the fight for a world without cancer. “I relay because, like so many others, my life has been impacted by a relative’s cancer diagnosis,” said Betsy Massey, Bevis Elementary’s Relay For Life team cochair. “I also had the amazing privilege of being an oncology nurse for 10 years. Relay For Life raises important funds for cancer research while also providing support for those with a cancer diagnosis.” Bloomingdale’s event will take place at the school’s track, located at 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, from Friday, April 26 at 6 p.m. through Saturday, April 27 at 6 a.m. Newsome High School, located at 16550 FishHawk Blvd., is one of the few 18 hour Heritage Events and will start at 12 Noon on Saturday, March 30 and end at 6 a.m., Sunday, March 31. Residents are encouraged to sign up to participate in either event at www.relayforlife.org, but the community is also encouraged to come out to support the fundraisers at the events, even if they are not part of a team. For more information, contact Klomparens at 616-551-4038 or visit the school’s Relay For Life websites at www.RelayForLife.or/fishhawkfl and www.RelayForLife.org/Bloomingdalefl.
March 2019
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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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 L’Artiste Boheme located at 15856 FishHawk View Drive, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Lithia, Florida 33547 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Brandon, Florida, this 21st day of January, 2019. Lynn Freeman
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Strawberry Ridge Homeowners Association Vendor Fair Tuesday, March 5; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Open to the public. 3402 Activities Ln. in Valrico.
Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Tuesday, March 5 and Thursday, March 21; 5:45 p.m. Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking your Social Security benefits; perfect for ages 58-67. The HCC campus at the Regent, 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave a message after 4:30 p.m.
Master Gardener Library Program: Right Plant In The Right Place
Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico Wednesday, March 6; 6:30-8 p.m. - Find your dream plants. Learn useful industry terms that will help you avoid impulsive or ‘shotgun’ purchases. Wednesday, April 3; 6:30-8 p.m. Bring a plant or other gardening item for fun Plant Swap. Email Richard@seedroff.com or call 303-638-3917 for more info.
Sporting Clay Challenge - Let's Shoot For A Cure For MS!
Friday, March 8 at 8-11 a.m. FishHawk Sporting Clays, 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd.; Lithia Cost: $75 individual ($80 after 3/1); $280 Team of 4 ($300 after 3/1) Includes 50 Clay Targets, two boxes of Shells, BBQ lunch and soft drinks Trophies Awarded. E-mail info@teampango.com.
Strawberry Ridge Homeowners Spring Frolic Dance Saturday, March 16; 7-10 p.m. 3402 Activities Lane, Valrico. Dance to the Kaleidoscope. Open to the public.
St. Patrick’s Day Party At Brandon Senior Center
Saturday, March 16; 4-7 p.m.; 612 N Parsons Ave., Brandon For more information, call 635-8066.
2019 Bay Area Renaissance Festival At MOSI
Weekends through March 31; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (Rain or Shine) Battle Axe Pub, Living Unicorn, Giant Puppet Troupe, Bow Blast, Armored Joust, Aerial Act. Discounted tickets are at Circle K and BayAreaRenFest.com.
Master Gardener Plant Clinic
Tuesday, March 5; 6:30 p.m. Riverview Library, 10509 Riverview Dr. Orchids: The Basics will be presented by Master Gardener Verna Dickey. Call 273-3652 for more information.
Congregation Beth Shalom
Shabbat Services – Fridays; 7 p.m. at 706 Bryan Rd., Brandon Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. All welcome. Call 681-6547.
Growing Roses In Florida
Saturday, March 30; 10 a.m. Kerby’s Nursery and Landscaping, 2311 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner Pick the right roses for your garden and learn all the tools of the trade to help you grow fresh, fragrant bouquets of gorgeous roses.
Parkinson's Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon
Third Tuesday of the month; 6 p.m. Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.
Hawthorne Health & Rehab Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
Third Thursday of the month; 2 p.m. 851 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon For more information or to register, call 661-8998 - M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Notice Under Fictitious Name Law Pursuant to Section 865.09, Florida Statutes NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the fictitious name of The Kyrie Center for Body, Mind and Spirit located at 15856 FishHawk View Drive, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Lithia, Florida 33547 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Brandon, Florida, this 21st day of January, 2019. Lynn Freeman
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Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Feed The Bay Meets The Needs Of Many With One-Day Food Collection Event Since its inception in 2006, Feed the Bay has collected nearly two million pounds of food for pantries of local food banks and community agencies. The multi-church effort provides a practical way for area churches to demonstrate God's love by serving as the Hands and Feet of Jesus. Feed the Bay will be held on Sunday, March 31 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. You can help fill the gap by replenishing pantries as a volunteer or shopper. Feed the Bay partners with Publix Super Markets which offer shoppers a convenient grocery list with the requested food items. After the shopper purchases the food, volunteers are onsite to collect the food and load it onto trailers. For the past nine years, Michelle (Flip) Filipowicz has looked forward to volunteering with Feed the Bay. She serves as a store coordinator at one of the Publix locations where she checks in the volunteers and acts as a liaison between church volunteers and store managers. “We start the day in prayer and with an empty truck, but as one body of Christians, not several area churches,” explained Flip. “At the end of the day, we thank the Lord for the food and the hands that helped to fill the truck.” Last year, Feed the Bay garnered 124,254 pounds of food from 15 Publix locations. The one-day community-wide
By Amanda Boston
effort included 31 church campuses and 12 community agencies, totaling 704 volunteers. Every year, Janine Skipper also volunteers as a store coordinator and truck driver at one of the Publix collection locations. She reminisced about last year’s turnout despite the stormy weather. "This past year we had a tornado touch down out in the Bay at the height of Feed the Bay,” said Skipper. “Even with the impending weather, the volunteers and parishioners came out in droves, and we had a full truck. Even through the storms—the wind and the rain, God’s people showed up and gave from their hearts.“ Volunteers are not only needed to load trucks at the Publix Super Markets but are necessary to drive the trailers as well as unload and sort the food at the local agencies. For those who wish to volunteer, you must be at least 14 years old, but children are welcome to participate alongside a parent. To volunteer or see a list of participating Publix Super Markets, churches and agencies, visit www.feedthebay.org. If you are unable to participate during the event but still want to contribute, gift cards from any supermarket may be dropped off at the Bay Life Church office. For questions, contact Melanie Langston from Bay Life Church at mlangston@baylife.org.
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March 2019
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Wild Game Night Provides ‘Guys Night Out’ To Support Local Charities
NOW OPEN
By Michelle Colesanti
Local men are venue located at invited to the Rotary 8407 Lupton Pl. off Club of Brandon’s Keysville Rd. in 41st Annual ‘Wild Plant City. Game Night’ on As in past Friday, March 8 from years, a highlight of 6-10 p.m. This stag the evening is the event has been chance to win thouaround since 1978, sands of dollars’ attracting men worth of items throughout the bay through silent aucarea; giving them a tions, a raffle and chance to gather for Rotarian member John Sellers stands in door prizes, which a ‘wild’ night of fun. front of the guns that were auctioned and will feature great raffled off at a previous Wild Game Night. hunting, fishing and You will enjoy sampling a variety sports-related items. of expertly prepared wild game, Two years ago, Wild which in the past has included Game Night featured special venison, quail and wild hog as guests Jon & Gina Brunson, well as barbeque provided by hosts of the Outdoor Lupton’s. Authentic Ybor City Channel’s Addicted to the cigars will be rolled on-site for Outdoors. purchase and can be enjoyed All proceeds from Wild with a drink from the open bar Game Night are donated to stocked with top-shelf liquors. local charities, including Boys According to JJ Massaro, over 600 & Girls Club in Riverview, Brandon Sports people are expected to attend. In the & Aquatic Center, Boy Scouts of America, past, this event has raised over $65,000. The Outreach Clinic, ECHO, Good He said, “It’s a fun night for everyone who Samaritan Mission and Grow Into You attends, and what makes it extra special Foundation. is the money we raise at the event helps Donations for tickets are $100 and our local community.” are available from any Brandon Rotary The event offers a rare chance to get Club member or through together with friends. Many a friendship www.eventbrite.com/e/wild-game-dinerhas been rekindled by meeting a long-lost tickets-30047296272. friend at this event. There are even For tickets or more information, conrumors that this event has helped close tact Joe Campoamor at 748-2076 or many a business transaction as well. jcampoamor@integrityft.com. For more The event starts at 6 p.m. at Lupton’s information on Brandon Rotary, visit Boggy Bottom Ranch, a wooded outdoor www.brandonrotary.org.
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Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
en’s m o W , ale S e g a r co & Ga n u B , t Retrea ore… M elle Colesanti,
be used for Lions Club projects around the state and within the Brandon area. You just never know what ‘treasure’ you might find. ich ed by M server.com il p The Lions Club m o C eyob e@ospr has been recognized ll e h ic m as one of the very few organizations which donate 100 percent of the money received from fundraising projects.
East Hillsborough Democratic Club Meets The March meeting of the East Hillsborough Democratic Club will be on Tuesday, March 12 at Beef O’Brady’s, located at 4330 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico. Bring family and friends at 6 p.m. for the meet and greet; the meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. The scheduled speaker for March is Amien Kacou/ACLU Immigration Lawyer. Visit www.easthillsboroughdems.org.
HAMBINGO Night Benefits Kappa Kappa Chapter
Join the fun on Tuesday, March 19 at Hamburger Mary's Brandon, located at 2016 Town Center Blvd., for a night of HAMBINGO. This is a Kappa Kappa Chapter fundraiser benefiting local children's charities. Call ahead to 6432110 for reservations.
Garage Sale Benefits Lions Club The Brandon Lions Club is holding a Garage Sale on Saturday, March 23 from 8 a.m. to 12 Noon at its clubhouse, located at 610 Limona Rd. in Brandon. Proceeds from this sale will
begin at 6 p.m. Bunco follows at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased by contacting Maureen Spagnola at 758-9593 or at maureenspagnola@gmail.com. Net proceeds will fund college scholarships, school supplies for local children and other important projects of the Education Committee.
Women’s Successful Living RISE UP Retreat
The third annual Women’s Successful Living RISE UP Retreat South County Spartans Young girls Cheer Squad. will take place from Friday, April 5 to Magazine, Founder of the Sunday, April 7 with the option to International She Boss Movement spend an additional night of pamperand host of Glow Girl Diaries ing, offering a variety of events such Podcast, a platform dedicated to as wine tasting, mediation yoga, queens building their empire. breakout sessions and insight from Tickets are available at https://rislocal and national inspirational speakeretreat.eventbrite.com. More inforers. mation is available at www.womThe event is for women age 25-50 enssuccessfulliving.com. Ticket who are looking to make changes in includes entry to all activities, breakout life. sessions, lodging Speakers include Geneva food and drinks. Maresma, founder of Hearts and Heels Connection Networking Group for Bunco For women; Angela Dileone, author of Education Hosted Secrets of a She Boss as well as By GFWC owner of VIP Brandon Junior Beauty Mobile Hair Woman’s Club & Makeup; Tiffany Please join the Ann Beverlin, creGFWC Brandon ator of Dreams Junior Woman's Recycled; and Club at its annual Andrea Williams ‘Bunco for Education’ on Thursday, CEO of Glow Girl March 14, at The Bridges Assisted Publication & Living Facility at 11350 Bloomingdale Company, Founder Ave. in Riverview. Refreshments will of the The Empress
Fundraiser To Help South County Spartans Athletic League
A fundraiser will be held for the South County Spartans Athletic League on Saturday, March 16 at 4 p.m. at Cutter’s Cigars, located at 715 W. Lumsden Ave. in Brandon. The Bantner Law Firm is the presenting sponsor and Minuteman Press is the ticket sponsor. Tickets are $20 and entitle each purchaser to one free beer and one free premium cigar. There will also be raffle items and a silent auction presented by Socially Funded. For more information, please contact Adam Bantner at 4167965 or Adam@TampaCrimeAttorneys.com to purchase tickets..
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Feast On New Flavors And Enjoy Entertainment At Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival
Staff Report
Foreigner
Boyz II Men Tampa’s premier spring festival returns on Saturday, March 16 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Food & Wine Festival. With more than 35 delicious dishes to pair with over 100 wines, craft brews and cocktails, guests can explore a variety of flavors while enjoying a diverse concert line-up, including acts for all tastes. The Food & Wine Festival runs weekends from March 16 to April 28 and is included with admission to the park. In addition to returning fan favorites, this year’s menu boasts many daring new flavors inspired by cuisines around the country. Guests can begin their culinary road trip with grilled lamb chops featuring a 15year balsamic drizzle from northern California. Foodies cannot miss mouthwatering Tex-Mex classics like chorizo queso fundido with sweet onions and shishito peppers or grilled elote–the park’s spin on Mexican street corn, featuring cotija cheese and lime crema. Island delights feature flavors of paradise with Hawaiian-inspired delicacies, including a dreamy pineapple upside down cake or Kona-crusted filet mignon with Maui onion butter. Nostalgic guests can
Hunter Hayes even take a trip down memory lane with a visit to the 60th Anniversary cabin, featuring recipes inspired by
The Band Perry wine tastings. The best way to savor and save on everything the festival has to offer is with a Food & Wine Festival
You can enjoy fun foods with daring new flavors as well as great entertainment at Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival, which will run weekends from March 16 through April 28.
historical Busch Gardens’ treats and snacks from decades gone by. This year’s festival features five unique tastings, including returning favorites and new options. Guests can explore exotic spirits at signature vodka, bourbon, ice wine, tequila and sparkling
Sampler. Guests can purchase a 5, 8 or 12-item sampler lanyard to use at each festival cabin to explore samplesized dishes and drink offerings with ease. Pass Members can purchase an exclusive 15-item sampler for the same price as a 12-item sampler.
From country and rock to R&B, the Food & Wine Festival line-up reflects musical genres of all tastes. Fans can book the ultimate festival experience with one of two exclusive VIP packages available for each act, including reserved concert seating and a sampler lanyard. Concert headliners include: Saturday, March 16–Daughtry; Sunday, March 17–The Band Perry, Saturday, March 23–3 Doors Down, Sunday, March 24–Blue Rodeo, Kathleen Edwards and Fred Eaglesmith, featuring Tif Ginn; Saturday, March 30–Justin Moore; Sunday, March 31–El Gran Comb;, Saturday, April 06–TBA; Sunday, April 07–Josh Turner; Saturday, April 13, Mighty Mighty Bosstones; Sunday, April 14–Boyz II Men; Friday, April 19– Edwin McCain and Vertical Horizon; Saturday, April 20–Hunter Hayes and Levi Hummo;, Sunday, April 21–Mat Kearney; Saturday, April 27–Walk Off the Earth; and Sunday, April 28– Foreigner. For more information about tickets and complete schedule, visit BuschGardensTampa.com.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
Local Family Develops New Twist On Tooth Fairy With The Toothless Monster
Brandon Ballet Announces The 2019 Winner Of The Richard Munro Memorial Scholarship
Most children are happy enough to receive a monetary reward from a famous fairy upon the loss of a tooth. However, what if your child was adamant in discovering what the tooth fairy does with all those baby teeth? Ryan and Jennifer Dean found themselves tackling this subject with their Local resident and dad, Ryan Dean and wife three-year-old daughter, Cooper, Jennifer developed a new Tooth Fairy who heard about incentive book and toy called The Toothless the magical entity Monster. that would one day carry off her teeth. An off-the-cuff response soon developed into a really cool story about being different and helping others. Ryan Dean said, “We came up with this by accident. I told Cooper the tooth fairy gives them to creatures that don’t have teeth and need them.” While on vacation in Central America driving through the rainforest, the story took root and developed as Cooper asked more questions, and the Deans realized they had a great idea. The Toothless Monster follows the story of Monte who cannot participate in a yearly party to celebrate the ripening of a special fruit because he does not have any teeth. He meets the tooth fairy who agrees to help him if he is willing to earn what he is missing. In the process, he learns how to pay it forward to the other creatures in the jungle. The Toothless Monster is a beautifully illustrated hardcover book that comes with your choice of Monte, a blue plushie, or his monster friend, Meli, a purple plushie. It also comes with a set of 16
The 2019 winner of has been a passion of the Richard Munro mine for a long time and Memorial Scholarship is to be able to further my Olivia McFadden, a 16education in this art year-old 11th grade stuthrough this kind of gift is dent at Newsome High so incredibly meaningful. School. McFadden has I am so grateful for this been dancing for 12 scholarship and look foryears. This is her first ward to utilizing it to help year with the Brandon improve my technique Ballet. She has studied and artistry." ballet, tap, jazz, contemMcFadden wants to porary, modern, hip-hop pursue a career in ballet and currently trains at with the New York City The Dance Center in Ballet. She also wants to Olivia McFadden, a Brandon. study to become a neujunior at Newsome High School and a The Richard Munro rosurgeon. McFadden dancer with the Memorial Scholarship is plans to use the $500 Brandon Ballet, is this awarded to a dancer scholarship to attend the year's winner of the Richard Munro between the ages of 13 Pacific Northwest Ballet Memorial Scholarship. and 18 and is intended Summer Intensive this to further the dancer's classical ballet summer. education. An unbiased judge is hired The Brandon Ballet is proud to be from outside the Brandon Ballet staff. celebrating its 25th season. Ladewig said, Munro had a passion for the arts and "Under the direction of Executive Director was integral to the success of the Alice Holden Bock, we have been providBrandon Ballet. Lyndsey Ladewig, ing superior instruction in the Tampa area President of the Brandon Ballet Board of to professional, pre-professional and Directors said, "In keeping with Munro's training dancers for a quarter century. enthusiasm and love of ballet, the Board Throughout the years, our company determined that the scholarship should be dancers have thrived due to the guidance based on 'the dancer's passion reflected our exceptional staff has provided, produring the audition.'" ducing doctors, lawyers, teachers and McFadden has attended many summany other successful professionals." mer programs including the Tulsa Ballet, Ladewig added, "The common thread is Fairbanks Summer Arts, Tremaine Dance that they all attribute their success to the Competitions, Nuvo Dance Conventions discipline, structure and training they and more. received at Brandon Ballet." McFadden said, "Winning this scholFor information, visit www.brandonarship means everything to me. Dancing ballet.org.
Electronic Recycling & Reuse
By Amy Schechter
attachable teeth parents should keep hidden away and a tooth loss chart to record the date your child loses each tooth. When your child loses a tooth, you place their real tooth in a secret tooth pouch in your plushie to await the tooth fairy’s arrival that night. Before bed, you read up to a certain point in the book before tucking your little one in. Overnight, ‘the tooth fairy’ will exchange the real
Jennifer Dean Shares The Toothless Monster with her daughter, Cooper.
tooth for a prize and you will secretly add a plastic tooth to Monte or Meli to ‘earn’ a tooth. Children will awake to find not only a gift from the tooth fairy, but the surprise of their monster’s new tooth. Then, you can finish reading the story to find out how excited and thankful their monster is to earn a tooth. It is an amazing way to celebrate the loss of a tooth and learn about how important it is to overcome challenges and help others along the way. To purchase your copy of The Toothless Monster along with your plushie and attachable teeth or learn more, visit https://thetoothlessmonster.com or find it on Amazon. Email info@thetoothlessmonster.com.
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March 2019
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 11
Page 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
The Pigeon Comes To Tampa To Promote New Children’s Museum Exhibit
By Libby Hopkins
Willems and his cast of lovable characters, including best friend duo Elephant and Piggie, faithful companion Knuffle Bunny and The Pigeon, the wily city bird best known for his antics in Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The exhibit showcases how Willems’ simple stories can inspire hours of play and reveals
friends and family to get suggestions as to where The Pigeon should visit while he is here in Tampa. “We started out by picking some of our favorite spots in Tampa, but soon other organizations saw our campaign and started inviting us behind the scenes at their venues,” White said. “We have also engaged our
The Glazer Children’s the Florida State Fair & more. Museum (GCM) in Tampa The Pigeon enjoyed some funopened a new traveling exhibit, nel cake while he was at the The Pigeon Comes to Tampa! A fair! “The response has been so Mo Willems Exhibit, on January positive,” White said. “My 19 and it has been a huge hit favorite part of this campaign with children all around the has been seeing the reactions Tampa Bay area. In preparation on social media. A highlight for for The Pigeon coming to the me has been when Yottoy, the museum, GCM’s creative duo, toy company that created the Kate White and Lauren stuffed animal we use, shares Colombo, came up with a marour posts and images!” keting campaign to build up If you would like to see The The Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa opened a new traveling exhibit, The Pigeon Comes to Tampa! momentum for The Pigeon’s Pigeon’s journey around A Mo Willems Exhibit. The exhibit will be at the museum through May 12. arrival. “The name of the exhibit is Tampa, use #thepigeoncomstotampa the rich emotional lives of his characstaff, who has really taken ownership The Pigeon Comes to Tampa! A Mo on Instagram to follow The Pigeon’s ters. The exhibit teaches social and of the project by reaching out to their Willems Exhibit,” White said. “So, we adventures. emotional skills like making yourself friends and family to get us access to got to thinking, if The Pigeon was To learn more about the exhibit, understood and figuring out what it exciting locations in Tampa Bay.” coming to Tampa, what would he visit www.Glazermuseum.org. The means to be a good friend. Along the So far, The Pigeon has been to a want to do? Well, he would want to museum is located at 110 W. way, children get to make their own USF Women’s Basketball game, travsee the sights, of course.” Gasparilla Plaza in downtown Tampa. art, surprises abound and every eled to Tropicana Field to throw a The Pigeon Comes to Tampa! A Hours of operations are Mondayexploration ends in fits of laughter. baseball out on the field, rode in Mo Willems Exhibit will be at Friday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., White and Colombo reached out News Channel 8’s Eagle 8 helicopter GCM through May 12. Guests get to Saturdays from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. and to guests and staff at GCM as well as and most recently, spent the day at visit the whimsical world of Mo and Sundays from 1–6 p.m.
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Page 13
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Pedal Power Promoters Help Local Communities Become Bicycle Friendly
By Libby Hopkins
Power Promoters are also advocates for bicycle friendliness and safety. By working closely with private and public sector stakeholders, the company seeks to elevate the area to world-class status for bicycle commuters. “We collaborate with critical local, regional and national cycling stakeholders,” Acosta said. “We work with transportation management organizations, urban planning experts, Florida Department of Transportation, the League of American Bicyclists, metropolitan planning organization committees, tour and bike share operators, cycling clubs, and event planners.” Acosta and Pedal Power Promoters also help promote the Tampa and St. Pete Bike Share
Christine Acosta started Pedal Power Promoters, LLC in 2014 shortly after her father passed away. Pedal Power Promoters connects and empowers bicyclists and businesses to become certified bicycle-friendly.
Anne Frank once said, “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” Christine Acosta would agree with Frank about wanting to improve our world. In 2014, she started Pedal Power Promoters, LLC as a way to connect local businesses and the bicycle community in Tampa Bay. “I started Pedal Power Promoters shortly after my father passed,” Acosta said. “I always rode bikes for transportation and recreation. I was determined to make a difference in the community and I wanted to connect with others in the community who loved cycling.” Pedal Power Promoters LLC was born. Pedal Power Promoters connects and empowers bicyclists and businesses. “We generate improvements in the areas of safety, wellness, education, sustainability and profit for private and public enterprises and their respective publics,” Acosta said. “We create and implement BicycleFriendly Business Certification programs that are recognized by The League of American Bicyclists and also provide professional bike valet services through Two Wheel Valet to serve and grow the pedal population.” Acosta and her team at Pedal
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Page 14
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
New Owners Of Budget Blinds Offering Exceptional Service
Newsome Students Receive Real Life Lessons In New Personal Finance Class
It is not enough years giving amazing to meet customers’ service to her cusexpectations. For tomers in the Tampa Mike and Adriane area. She is truly an Wonderlin, the new asset to this team.” owners of Budget While customers Blinds of North are welcome to visit Tampa, Land O’ either showroom, Lakes and Brandon, most customers love the goal is to exceed the personal engageexpectations. ment with a design Mike and Adriane Wonderlin, the new consultant that will After working for owners of Budget Blinds of North Budget Blinds for come to your home. Tampa, Land O Lakes and Brandon, are excited to continue to offer more than 10 years, This complimentary exceptional customer service and a the couple purchased variety service allows the of window treatments to fit any the three Tampa-area customer to browse a home and any budget. franchises from the complete line of winprevious owners in June 2018. The dow coverings, including blinds, shades, Wonderlins moved to Florida in 2008 shutters, romans, cellular or woven when the original owners offered Mike a woods as well as drapery, cornices and job working for Budget Blinds. valances, all in the comfort of your home. “At that time, he had already been in The company’s motto, ‘A style and the window treatment industry for eight service for every budget,’ is something years and we were looking to get away that the Wonderlins appreciate and follow. from the cold winters in Illinois,” said Budget Blinds offers a wide variety of winAdriane. “He immediately took a design dow treatments to fit any home, at any consultant position in warm, sunny Tampa cost. Budget Blinds has more than 1,200 and continued to work for the previous locally-owned franchises serving 10,000 owners, The Trotters.” cites in the United State and Canada. As the business continued to grow, The showroom that serves the Mike was instrumental in hiring and trainBrandon area is located at 10437 ing new employees. Eventually expandGibsonton Dr. in Riverview. A second ing to 27 employees and two showrooms, showroom on Fletcher Ave. serves the the company had continued to put people New Tampa, Wesley Chapel area. first. Showroom hours are Monday-Friday “The majority of employees have from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays from stayed with Budget Blinds for five plus 10 a.m.-3 p.m. To schedule a complimenyears,” said Adriane. “This includes tary appointment in home consultation, Derenda Burdette the administrative call 445-7121. Visit assistant who has spent the past 12 www.budgetblinds.com/northtampa/.
Students at In addition, she Newsome High hopes that the class School in Lithia will eventually be an have the option of option for the ecotaking a new class nomics graduation this school year requirement at the that could help school. them for the rest of “I hope that stutheir lives. dents will take a few Personal Family financial nuggets Michelle Haines recently began teaching with them into the Finance, a Family Personal Family Finance to students at and Consumer future and hopefully Newsome High School. Science class one day remember, through the Florida Department of ‘Oh yeah, I learned how to do that in high Education, teaches students about many school,’” said Haines. aspects of financial decision-making. The class is open to students in Teacher Michelle Haines approached grades nine through 12 interested in gainher assistant principal to get the class on ing insight into their personal finances. the school’s course selection list last year “As I began my college preparation, I after teaching Senior Survival for eight became curious on the financial aspect of years at Newsome. my upcoming chapter of life,” said “My county supervisor encourages us Newsome senior Even Smith. “I chose to continually teach relevant courses to this class to gain insight on future savings our students, and Senior Survival’s curand investments as well as information on riculum includes an entire quarter of perthe many costs I will be facing in the sonal finance,” said Haines. “I was excitfuture.” ed at the opportunity to teach a full Haines especially recommends the semester course on the subject.” class for students entering the workforce During the class, students learn during high school. about the American economic system, “Recently, I began to receive a payfinancial decision-making, managing percheck bi-weekly and I tend to spend most sonal income, savings and investing with of it on impulse buys,” said Newsome a focus on retirement, credit, banking, senior Simone Soper. “I took this class to taxes, wills, insurance and contracts. learn about saving and investing. I wish I “We talk about one of the largest had taken this class sooner so I could financial decisions they will make in the have started managing my money earlinear future; college,” said Haines, who er.” also teaches Nutrition and Wellness and Newsome High School is located at Principals of Food and advises the 16550 FishHawk Blvd. and can be FCCLA and Interact Clubs. reached at 740-4600.
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Page 15
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
27th Annual Apollo Beach Manatee Festival Of The Arts March 9 & 10
Amy Schechter
Back again in its delicious food and 27th year, the Apollo ice cold beverBeach Manatee ages to the mix. Festival of the Arts There is someshowcases local thing for everyone artists and provides a here.” family-friendly atmosArtists in all phere you will not mediums are want to miss. A invited to apply unique collaboration and will be selectbetween the ed by a commitSouthShore tee from the Chamber of SouthShore Arts Commerce and the Council. The SouthShore Arts selection process Council; if you can allows for a dediimagine it, an artist cation to excelthere is likely to crelence and an ate it. You will find assurance to the imaginative pieces public of outstandmade from glass, ing quality. If wood, metal and selected, artists photography. Enjoy the Manatee Festival of the Arts on are provided with Saturday and Sunday, March 9 and 10 This year’s festia designated parkfrom 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at E.G. Simmons val will be held the ing and exhibition Park in Ruskin. weekend of March 9area, booth signs 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at E.G. and other amenities. In addition to the Simmons Park. The exhibition area opportunity to sell artwork, awards for gives artists the opportunity to display best in show and other categories total work, interact with local patrons and $10,000 this year. sell their art. For more information, please visit Melanie Davis, executive director of www.southshorechamberofcommerce.o the SouthShore Chamber, can attest: rg. For questions about the application “This festival is all about arts and all process, call 645-1366 or email about our community. We draw artists accounts@southshorechamberofcomfrom all over the country. We add great merce.org. E.G. Simmons Park is locatlive music, a hands-on kids’ zone, a ed at 2401 19th Ave. NW in Ruskin, commercial and non-profit area where 33570. Please note there is a $2 cash you can meet our local businesses and fee per car (up to eight people) to enter organizations and, of course, we add the park.
AR Workshop Brandon Offers A Hands On Experience With Its Projects
By Tatiana Ortiz
stains and paints. It also provides all of the tools and more for those participating in the classes. Individuals can also choose from a wide variety of projects with prices starting at $37.50. In addition, individuals can also book Private Parties, Ladies Night Out, summer camps and much more. The duration of private workshops last from two to three hours and chilA glimpse inside of the AR Workshop Brandon.
Those looking for new ideas to decorate their home but do not know where to begin may want to visit AR Workshop Brandon as a place to get creative and discover new ideas. AR Workshop Brandon provides unique hands-on classes with an instructor-led workshop where individuals design custom wood plank signs, centerpiece boxes and more. AR Workshop Brandon opened last April 2018. With it being a franchise, more than 100 locations can be found across the country. The first AR Workshop became established two years ago in Pineville, North Carolina. AR Workshop Brandon came into fruition by Stephanie Paxton and her husband Greg Paxton. Stephanie, who operates it, studied art and design in college. She learned about the franchise when a close friend suggested that Stephanie should open a shop and teach people how to create signs. Stephanie said, “We have lived here for five years and knew this community would be a great place to open AR Workshop.” What makes it unique is that customers can come and create a personalized piece by utilizing AR Workshop Brandon’s line of nontoxic
Owner Stephanie Paxton from AR Workshop Brandon holds a sign that displays the workshop’s logo.
dren’s parties include a two-hour workshop timeslot. With that in mind, this month, AR Workshop Brandon will be running an early bird special, which includes taking $20 off of camp registrations until Sunday, March 31 by using the code CAMP20. “All in all, this is such a fun, creative environment where everyone can create a beautiful and personalized piece,” Stephanie said. For more information, visit www.arworkshop.com/brandon/. It is located at 1046 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Call 775-7109.
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Page 16
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
Disney On Ice Presents New Show: Dare To Dream At Amalie Arena
Local Y Group Welcomes New Members & Keeps Each Other In Stitches
Disney’s Moana find the strength to voyages onto the ice shape our own for the first time as destiny at Disney Disney On Ice presOn Ice presents ents Dare To Dream, Dare To Dream! produced by Feld Fans are Entertainment Inc. It encouraged to brings courage and arrive early to celeadventure to homebrate family and towns across North tradition with America. Hosts Miguel from Mickey Mouse and Disney/Pixar’s Minnie Mouse bring Coco in a special audiences on an sing-along guest expedition across appearance. raging seas and Discover your snow-covered mouninner hero when tains in this actionDisney On Ice packed extravaganpresents Dare To za when beloved Dream at Amalie characters from Arena. Disney’s Beauty and Tickets for the Beast, Frozen, Disney On Ice Tangled and presents Dare to Cinderella visit Dream are availTampa from March able at www.dis21-24 at Amalie neyonice.com, Arena. Tickets are 800-745-3000 or currently on sale to at the Amalie the public. Believe in Arena Box Office, what is possible as Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream at located at 401 Amalie Arena from Tuesday to Sunday, five Disney heroines Channelside Dr. in March 21-24. Tickets are currently on sale. Tampa. Show spark the courage inside us all in Disney On Ice presents times are Thursday and Friday, March Dare To Dream! In her Disney On Ice 21 and 22 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March debut, see how far Moana will go in an 23 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and epic adventure with demigod Maui to Sunday, March 24 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. save her island and discover her true To sign up to be a Feld Preferred identity. Join Belle as she fearlessly member and to receive presale alerts, befriends the enchanted castle staff and please visit reveals the Beast’s gentleness. www.feldentertainment.com/preferredExperience Anna’s devotion to her siscustomer-page. ter, Elsa, on her life-changing journey to To discover more about Disney On stop an eternal winter. Explore with Ice, go to DisneyOnIce.com. Stay curRapunzel, Flynn Ryder, Cinderella and rent on the latest developments through friends from around the Disney social media: Facebook: www.faceKingdom as they find the heart and book.com/DisneyOnIce Twitter: determination to overcome obstacles @DisneyOnIce #DisneyOnIce and make their dreams come true. #100YearsofMagic YouTube: Journey with Mickey and Minnie to www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce uncover why no goal is too big when we Instagram: @DisneyOnIce.
It is early on the Brandon a Monday mornRegional Hospital ing and the ladies Baby Suites.” start to trickle into New members the conference are always welcome room at the to join. Debbie Campo Y. Each Wieder, who faciliof them walk in tates the informal wearing a smile, group, said, “We tell and after the welyou to bring your comes from other yarn and hook group members, In honor of National Heart Month, members whether you are croof the Happy Stitchers group that meets they begin stitch- weekly at the Campo Y recently donated red cheting or knitting. ing hats, blankets hats to Brandon Regional Hospital’s Baby There is always Suites. and other items, someone there to all while enjoying the camaraderie of help you get started. We try to talk to those around them. The ladies belong to everyone.” The Happy Stitchers and truly enjoy their Sandy DiBurro has been with the craft and the company. group for a year. She found herself alone The ladies love to give back to the and was looking for companionship so community. In July, they donated she decided to join. “This group has Lapghans to the Veteran’s Hospital. become like a family to me. I’ve done a Lapghans are smaller than blankets and lot of sewing and alterations since I was a can be used by those in wheelchairs or kid.” for the elderly to help keep them warm. Currently, there are 18 members that They also donate Lapghans annually to attend. You do need to be a member of the Y’s Livestrong Program. the Y to belong to the group. Members Recently, the group knitted more than currently range in ages from the 30s on 150 hats and donated them to Brandon up. All skill levels are welcome and the Regional Hospital (BRH). The hospital members are glad to help you get started. partners with the American Heart You only need to bring your favorite color Association to provide red knitted hats to yarn and the tools to crochet or knit. all babies born during February. This is A few of the ladies are bilingual and the second year that the Happy Stitchers can help if Spanish is your first language. participated. The Happy Stitchers meet every Jill Lansky, Business Development Monday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Director in charge of the program at the Campo Family YMCA, 3414 Culbreath hospital said, “Thank you Campo YMCA Rd. in Valrico. For more information, call Happy Stitchers for making and donating Kavita Marbali at 684-1371 ext. 1606 or hand-knit hats for our newborn babies at visit the welcome center.
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EXPERT PET CARE IN A SAFE & LOVING ENVIRONMENT
By Michelle Colesanti
March 2019
Page 17
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
An Ounce of Prevention; ‘Measuring’ The Value Of Ongoing Medical Care
By Dr. Jennifer Challenger DVM, MPH
That old saying that an ounce of prevention beats a pound of cure sometimes is overlooked as we get caught up with our busy schedules and active lives. However, there is a lot of truth in that saying and none more important than that involving preventative health care. This is especially true where our pets are involved. Annual vaccines for pets are a very important form of preventative medicine because they prevent disease and suffering for our furry family members. The most commonly recognized vaccine protects against the rabies virus, which can be fatal in both pets and people. Because of this, it is required by law to be given to your pets every year. There are many diseases that your pets can catch just from walking and sniffing as they explore their surroundings. That is why annual vaccine boosters, such as Distemper and Parvovirus for dogs as well as Feline Leukemia and FIP for cats, are so important. Another important vaccine is Bordetella, which protects against a highly contagious respiratory disease that is spread through the air. Lyme disease is yet another disease for which your pets should be vaccinated and is a concern especially when and where ticks are present. Vaccine programs are generally start-
ed between 6 and 8 weeks of age, when puppies and kittens come to the veterinarian for their first check-up. These vaccines must be boostered several times in the next few months and then annually, or in some cases every six months, after that. These annual and semi-annual visits to the veterinarian are also an important part of preventative medicine. During these visits, the veterinarian will examine your pet to ensure that he or she is healthy. The vet may find that your pet has dental problems or conditions of the skin or ears that, if caught and treated early, can save your pet unnecessary suffering-and you great expense. Once a pet is 7 years of age or older, it is a good idea to have yearly blood work completed, which will not only detect problems before they become severe, but will also give you peace of mind that your pet is aging gracefully. Many veterinarians offer this blood work at a reduced price in conjunction with a pet's annual vaccination visit. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about a wellness or geriatric blood profile while you are at the office with your pet. Many feline and canine diseases can now be prevented through vaccination, monthly preventatives and regular health examinations. A vaccination and preventative schedule prepared by your veterinarian can thus greatly contribute to good health and a longer life span for your pets.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Start Fresh Counseling Center Offers Superior Services To Community The mission at Start Fresh Counseling Center in Brandon is to create a safe, compassionate and caring environment. The center supports improved mental health for families, couples, children and individuals of all backgrounds through professional counseling, psychotherapy services, life coaching and Christian counseling guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ. “We act as a guide in helping the clients to make empowered decisions about their individual and professional lives,” said Start Fresh Counseling Center CEO and Mental Health Counselor Casandra Merritt. “We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of our clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth they’re striving to achieve.” Start Fresh Counseling has been a part of the community since 2014. “It started in the summer of 2014 with a passion for families,” Merritt said. “I want families to know ‘the place where new beginnings begin’ was not another trade-
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By Libby Hopkins mark but a safe, compassionate and caring environment. I wanted families to experience their new beginning. We have a wonderful staff of licensed thera-
pists and office staff.” Merritt and her staff love being part of the community and helping those in need. “I think it very instrumental; having a counselor locally allows families to feel that their support system is just a call or a drive close by. It brings security,” Merritt said. “Helping people with their new beginning, showing people how to live life in the midst of situations, learning that situations may not change but they can is what we strive for at our center.” Merritt and her staff feel that when clients come to the counseling center, they are one step closer to a new life where the client feels empowered and on a positive path to growth and well being. “As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating,” Merritt said. If you would like to learn more about the various counseling services offered at Start Fresh Counseling Center, visit www.startfreshcounselingcenter.com or contact Merritt at 489-4547. Start Fresh Counseling Center is located at 1463 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
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Volume 18, Issue 3
Indulge in an Intimate Cultural Journey on a Small Ship Seasoned travelers and frequent cruisers who want to travel the world in an intimate setting and immerse themselves in local cultures should experience small ship cruising or a river cruise. There is nothing like sailing along some of the world’s most famous rivers with ports of call right in the heart of small towns and witnessing history come to life. Interest in small ship cruising, traveling onboard ships with a smaller passenger capacity, is on the rise among travelers. “River cruises have approximately 150 passengers and a high staff to guest ratio, which creates a very intimate vacation experience. One of the unique experiences of river cruising is that you are cruising by amazing sights instead of flying into or waking up in a port,” said Jenifer Breaux, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in Lithia/Valrico Area. Five fast facts about small ship cruising: 1. Small Ships Can Cruise the World: Contrary to popular myth, small ships have the ability to sail to a myriad of destinations and hidden gems around the world, some of which are unattainable by bigger ships because they can navigate more narrow channels. They also offer themed itineraries focusing on different interests like wine tasting. 2. Small Ship Cruising is Affordable for a Variety of Budgets: In the case of small ship cruising, exclusivity and intimacy don’t mean the experience is unattainable. In fact, small ship cruises are affordable at a variety of different price points. 3. Small Ships Offer Unique Experiences Onboard and On Shore: Just because smaller ships lack space doesn’t mean they lack amenities or entertainment. In fact, many have a fitness studio, pools, and an impressive crew-to-traveler ratio, with some ships having a nearly one-to-one service ratio. 4. Small Ship Cruising is Flexible to Each Traveler: Just because the ships are smaller doesn’t mean the schedule or planning is more rigid. In fact, small ship cruising lends itself to creating personalized trips for every type of traveler. There is something for everyone on a cruise, no matter the size of the ship. For example, fitness fanatics and active travelers who cruise with AmaWaterways get a chance to get active and explore new destinations through hiking and biking excursions. 5. Small Ship Cruising Offers a Private Club Experience: With fewer cabins on board, guests really get to know each other and can enjoy personalized attention from the crew. In addition, travelers can mingle as they share open decks and social spaces. Follow us this week on social media at www.facebook.com/JBVacationPros as we travel through Vietnam and Cambodia aboard the AmaDara. For more information or to be matched with the vacation of your dreams, please call 813.667.7000 or visit www.JBVacationPros.com.
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March 2019
at 1700 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. The grand prize is $250. Admission is $10 per person and is available on Eventbrite.com. The evening will also , feature a 50/50 rafti n a s le helle Co ic M fle and silent aucy b d m Compile preyobserver.co tion. All ticket s o @ michelle sales benefit the Impact program, which promotes healthy lifestyles and relationships to teens, parents, teachers Breakfast For Dinner and other youth leaders through The Holy Innocents’ Chapter of classroom eduBrotherhood of St. Andrew is hostcation and its ing a Shrove Tuesday Pancake teen summer Dinner. Join in for a fun evening of staff program. fellowship and pancakes on Auditions will Tuesday, March 5. Dinner, which be held on includes pancakes (all you care to Sunday, March 3 eat), sausage and a beverage, will from 1-5 p.m. at be served from 5-8 p.m. The cost is $5 per person with a max of $15 per The Venue, family. All proceeds will benefit com- located at 11268 Boyette Rd. in munity service projects of the Riverview. Brotherhood of St. Andrews. The Participation is event will be held at Holy Innocents for those in Episcopal Church, 604 N. Valrico grades K-12 Rd. in Valrico. Please contact the with all acts church during normal business hours at 689-3130 for more informa- three minutes or under. tion. Performances include but are Calling All Performers For not limited to: vocalists, actors, Impact’s Got Talent Show dancers (solo, duets and groups) Mark your calendar for Friday, and musicians. April 12 for the fifth annual Impact’s To sign up for an audition time, Got Talent fundraising event based off the hit television show America’s please contact Jennifer Crum at Got Talent. The family-friendly event 863-661-3236 or crummiej@tampabay.rr.com. Contestants selected kicks off at 6:30 p.m. at for the event will be asked to pay a Bloomingdale High School, located
hip s w o l l e F f Evening O ent l a T , s e k & Panca re… o M & w Sho
Page 19
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
registration fee of $15 per person (solos & duets) and $10 per person for groups of three or more to help offset the cost of trophies and prizes. To be an event sponsor, contact Angie Kagey at 264-9368 or akagey@whatisimpact.com. For more information, visit Impact’s Got Talent 2019 Facebook Event page or www.whatisimpact.com.
Free Safety Around Water Swim Program Offered By Y
The Safety Around Water pro-
gram is free and open to the entire community, beginners and nonswimmers, ages 3-12 years. During the four-day course, certified instructors teach kids a sequenced set of skills that will reduce the risk of drowning and give them confidence in and around water. Classes take place Monday, March 18Thursday, March 21. Participants must be present on the first day of class and bring their own swimsuit and towel. A YMCA membership is not required; however, due to limited space, pre-registration is required at these locally participating Tampa YMCAs: Campo Family YMCA, North Brandon Family YMCA, Plant City Family YMCA and Spurlino Family YMCA at Big Bend Rd. Register online at www.tampaymca.org/programs/swimming/wat er-safety/. The Tampa Y will also offer the free Safety Around Water program in May and August of this year. The YMCA of the Suncoast, Dates and times vary based on YMCA location.
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 Eleison Books located at 15856 FishHawk View Drive, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Lithia, Florida 33547 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Brandon, Florida, this 21st day of January, 2019. Lynn Freeman
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Page 20
Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
ns, e e T r o pF m a C t Boo ial Seminars & Financ More… santi, e Cole Michell
Accurate Insurance some friends. Solutions, will talk about Every work out health care services on will be different and March 13. This will focus on the fitincludes health plans ness needs of chilunder the Affordable dren ages 8 and up Care Act (Obamacare), who are ready to ed by com short-term health plans focus and work Compil spreyobserver. e@o that were recently hard at their workmichell approved, Medicare outs. and faith-based healthThe session care alternatives. Group begins June 10-August 1 insurance and Medicaid (16 sessions) on Tuesday and will also be discussed. Thursday from 9 a.m.-9:50 a.m. at Rockstar Teen Boot Camp Jon Poppell, of the FishHawk West Basketball Rockstar Teen Boot Camp will Poppell Insurance, Inc., Courts Esker Falls Lane. The cost offer exercise and fitness training this will be talking about is $120. There is a discount for Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Harris summer. siblings. Electrician’s Mate 1st Class Randy Corpuz, from Honolulu, Hawaii, personal insurance on Boot camp fitness sessions meet for For more information, contact shows parameters of a gas turbine generator to Gas Turbine Systems March 27. This Technician (Electrical) 2nd Class Jonathan Desciscio, from Valrico, includes homeowner's 45 to 50 minutes and include a fun-style Marci Hollman at 951-0081 or during an engineering training team drill aboard the Arleigh Burkecircuit fitness training program designed insurance, automobile Marci@inspiredmobilefitness.com. class guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85). for teens to do with McCampbell is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of opera- insurance and umbrella tions in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. a friend, with the policies. Renters insurLaughter Yoga: others in the group ance and motorcycle Laugh For The free to attend. Space is limited. Call Janet or with their parent. insurance will also be discussed. Health Of It at 413-8900 to reserve your seat. Adult Boot Camp Finally, Chuck Jennings, of Acentria Learn how therapeutic will occur at the Insurance, will discuss commercial (busiPublic Invited To Attend Free laughter benefits our physical same time. ness) insurance on April 3. Financial Seminars and mental well-being by Teen Boot There will be no meeting on attending ‘Laughter Yoga: A group of financial seminars are Camp is an outWednesday, March 20 (spring break). Laugh for the Health of It!’ on being presented this spring at First door, interval trainThe seminars are free and open to Thursday, March 28 from 9:30Baptist Church of Brandon. ing program the public. If you plan to 10:30 a.m. Dr. Tanya Gold, All seminars are designed for teens attend, please call the MD, family physician and intewill be held on looking to kick start Dr. Tanya Gold, MD. church office at 689grative medical doctor, who is Wednesdays at 7 p.m. their fitness 1204. Free childcare is also certified as a laughter in the dining hall (buildgoals or to keep active throughout the available if needed. yoga leader and registered yoga instrucing A on the SE corner summer. The program combines cardio The seminars are tor, will explain the many health benefits of N. Moon Ave. & W. and strength training by constantly chalsponsored by the First of laughter yoga such as reducing stress, Sadie St.). lenging you, all the while providing conBaptist Brandon strengthening the immune system and Tom Loudermilk of sistent and positive motivational support. lessening pain. This interactive workshop Loudermilk Financial Group will talk about Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) public chariActivities include circuits, strength and will show you how to laugh even if you do financial services, including life insurance, ty established in 1993, which shares a flexibility stations using their own body common membership with the First not feel like it. Choosing to laugh is a tool annuities and investments on March 6. weight, obstacle courses, ball games, Baptist Church of Brandon. The church is to add to your medical toolbox. Toni Stanaland, an independent jump ropes and more. It is a great way to The workshop, held at The Bridges, insurance agent; Linda Walker, of Poppell located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in burn fat, calories, stay fit and makes new Brandon. 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview, is Insurance, Inc.; and Mark McDade, of
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Senior Pastor At Bell Shoals Baptist Church Bids Farewell To Florida
New Sunrise Homes’ Lake Toscana Model Opens Just In Time For Parade Of Homes
Dr. Stephen N. nationwide. He is a Rummage, senior frequent guest speakpastor of Bell Shoals er for churches and Baptist Church for the conferences across past nine and a half the United States. years, has Executive Pastor announced he is Gary Payne, who has leaving the West served at Bell Shoals Central Florida for 25 years, will lead church to be pastor at Bell Shoals’ staff durQuail Springs Baptist ing this transition. Church in Oklahoma “I will miss Dr. City, Oklahoma. Rummage’s preach“When we Dr. Rummage, the senior pastor at Bell ing, leadership and Shoals Baptist has also held key entered ministry friendship,” said Rev. leadership positions with the Southern together 27 years Baptist Convention and Florida Baptist Payne. “I also am ago, Michele and I looking forward to State Convention. promised the Lord to seeing who God follow wherever He led brings to Bell Shoals.” and to serve wherever Dr. Rummage has He called us,” Dr. authored or contributed Rummage said in a to more than 10 books. statement. “We have He also served as presisought to be faithful to dent of the Florida that commitment, and Baptist State Convention God has brought joy and from 2016-2018. In that blessing to our lives as a role, he emphasized the result.” need for pastoral leadership in church“We know that God has great plans wide evangelism for the 3,100 SBC for Bell Shoals’ future,” Dr. Rummage churches in the state of Florida. added. “And we will be praying for God Dr. Rummage and Michele have a to make clear the man He wants to lead son, Joshua, who is studying in the this great church going forward.” Doctor of Pharmacy program at the Under Dr. Rummage’s leadership, University of South Florida. Joshua and Bell Shoals Baptist Church added four his wife, Morgan, will remain in the campuses and baptized more than Tampa Bay area, where Morgan serves 2,200 people. in the student ministry at Bell Shoals Dr. Rummage started the radio min- Baptist Church. istry Moving Forward while at Bell For more, visit www.bellshoals.com Shoals. It airs on more than 120 stations or call 689-4229.
Luxury homeMarch 1, just in builder Sunrise time for the 2019 Homes has purParade of chased the Homes. Its physiremaining 91 cal address is homesites in the 5333 Lake Venice 512-acre commuDr. in Wimauma. nity of Lake Two sales Toscana on agents will be Saffold Rd., just serving this comoff U.S. Hwy. 301 munity: Ticha Sunrise Homes’ Monalto furnished model in Wimauma. Fender and Mark home will open in Lake Toscana on March 1. Davis. Nearly all homes will be situated on the communiFender said homebuyers need to ty’s internal waterways and homesites will visit and see all that the community has to range from half to one acre. offer. Sunrise Homes’ owner Ali Hasbini “You could put in your canoe or said the spacious lots, which are rare in kayak and take the Little Manatee River today’s market, will allow residents to all the way out to the bay,” she said. “This play, entertain and enjoy Florida’s incomcommunity allows you to enjoy Florida’s parable weather without feeling hemmed natural beauty.” in. In addition to Lake Toscana, Sunrise “We saw this as a phenomenal Homes also offers its portfolio of residenopportunity to provide our buyers with tial designs at Arbor Breeze in Valrico, affordable luxury homes,” he said. Britt’s Landing in Plant City and Sunrise Homes will offer executive Bridgewater Landing, Canterfield Farm and estate residences priced from the Estates and Hickory Breeze (also sold by mid-$300’s and ranging in size from Chancey), all in Riverview. 2,500 to more than 3,000 sq. ft. of living “It is an exciting time at Sunrise space. However, because Sunrise Homes,” said Hasbini. Homes is a custom builder, any floor plan “We can’t wait to share with our buycan be modified or expanded to a cusers, Lake Toscana…the most beautiful tomer’s specifications. conservation community in Central Community features include expanFlorida,” he said. sive nature areas and walking trails near For information, call 681-8419 or visit the Little Manatee River, a picnic pavilion www.Sunrisehomescorp.com. For more and a large playground. information about Lake Toscana or to The Monalto, a 3,003 sq. ft. decoratschedule an appointment, call Chancey ed model home, will officially open on at 294-3120 or Davis at 941-737-4127.
Staff Report
By Michelle Caceres
Page 22
Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
The Bay Area Renaissance Festival Celebrates 41 Years Of Family Entertainment First held in 1979 in Largo, The Bay Area Renaissance Festival is a tradition that has lasted 41 years. From its small beginnings, it has grown into one of Tampa’s favorite annual attractions. When it began, the Festival featured renaissance dancing, archery contests, jugglers, mimes and madrigals. Through the years, attendance grew and so did the Festival. Now more than 80,000 people visit annually. It is open weekends through Sunday, March 31 and will also open on Friday, March 29. Escape from the present and journey into a time when kings and queens rule and mermaids and fairies are a reality. This year’s features include Bow Blast where you can take a shot at your friends in an all new Robin Hood-style bow and arrow game. Run around the course firing at your friends, but do not get shot. Get your picture taken with an oversized jester, king or knight. Mead N Feed is an all new Daily Royal Event for ages 21+ featuring mead tasting from Superior Lakes mead, wine and cider paired with cheeses, breads, fruits and entertainment you do not want to miss. Have you ever wondered what it is like to ride a knight’s horse? Stick around after the Joust and have your turn at being a noble knight of Fittleworth. Become the biggest dill in all the
By Michelle Colesanti
land trying your luck at Pickle Jousting. Do not miss Pirates and Pets on March 2 and 3. Check out Ultimate Air Dogs Dock Diving Championship, Dog Demonstrations, Wiener Dog Races and Dog Costume Contest along with Pet Vendors/Rescues. Barbarian Brew Fest on March 9 and 10 includes a Beard and Archer Competition, Craft Beer Festival and Game of Thrones Costume Contest. Other weekend special events include Shamrocks & Shenanigans on March 16 and 17 and High Seas Adventure March 23 and 24. Do not miss the Free Beer Festival on Friday, March 29. Every ticket gets a free beer. USF Students and Staff with valid ID, Military and First Responders get a free ticket with valid ID. Ladies Shopping Day, School Day, and the Masque Ball happens that night. The last weekend, March 30 and 31 will include the Florida State Belly Dancing Championships, Steampunk Invasion, Costume Contest and more. Admission at the gate is $21.95 for adults and $13.95 for children 512. Ages 4 and under are free. Discount tickets are available at participating Circle K and at www.BayAreaRenFest.com. Festival is located at 11315 N. 46th St. in Tampa (at MOSI).
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Staff Report
Yisenia our city, and what better way Abrahantes, Tatiana to do so than by creating Lopez and Florimar something special that Galdon are in love. everyone, from millennials, They are in love with to young parents, to grandTacos, but mainly, parents, to kids of all ages they are in love with can truly enjoy,” said the Tampa communiAbrahantes, a Cubanty, and how it has American entrepreneur with evolved into a great 10 years of advertising and place to live with so marketing experimany things to do— ence. Come out to Al Lopez Park in among them, a These ladies’ Tampa on remarkable gastrono- Saturday, commitment to their March 9 my scene. community and its from 11 a.m.-6 “It’s a pretty awe- p.m. to enjoy the people is undeniable, first Tampa Taco Fest. some place to call but their experience in home. We’re finally seeing Tampa’s event planning and marketing is what potential materialize. There are so many gives them the edge needed. fun things to do here, and this is just the “It’s no secret America loves tacos, beginning,” said Lopez, an experiential and our community is thriving with marketing pro who has traveled the amazing spots to eat a great taco. So country executing activations for various why not bring all of these awesome national brands. The young mom’s gen[mostly family owned] Taco experts to uine enthusiasm for her community is one place so that people may try them evident. This passion and pride for their all, while listening to live music, in an community, and their shared love of awesome outdoor atmosphere. But it’s Tacos, was all the inspiration they needimperative that the event is authentic, ed to create the first ever Tampa Taco which is why the event will be made up Fest—an event that brings together the almost entirely of local small businesscommunity and all its colorful patrons in es,” added Galdon, a mother of two with a family friendly environment. over 20 years of marketing experience The Tampa Taco Fest is happening with some of the most successful Saturday, March 9 at Al Lopez Park from Florida-based brands, like Budweiser, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. There will be ‘muchos’ Disney, and Busch Gardens, where she tacos—from traditional Mexican tacos to currently holds the title of Marketing Asian inspired tacos, live music, and Manager. much more. For more event information, call “Our goal is to make a solid contri382-6124 or please email tampatacofesbution to this cultural boom going on in tival@gmail.com.
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March 2019
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 March 2019
Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk
www.ospreyobserver.com
Community Gathers To Raise Funds, Awareness At Moving Day Tampa Bay, A Walk For Parkinson’s By Monique Levy
The Parkinson’s Parkinson’s can be challenging, but Valrico/FishHawk community are doing Foundation (PF) will better treatments, programs and their part to help raise money for the host its annual research make all the difference. Parkinson’s Foundation Moving Day Moving Day Tampa This event always gives me hope Tampa Bay, hosting fundraising events Bay, A Walk for and reminds me I’m not alone.” during the month of March. Parkinson’s on Funds raised through Moving On Thursday, March 7, Team Rock Saturday, April 6 Day support the Parkinson’s Steady Boxing of FishHawk Ranch is from 8:30 a.m. to Foundation national mission by deliv- hosting a Charity Bingo Night at 12 Noon at the ering expert care to more than Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co., 3632 University of South 100,000 people living with Lithia Pinecrest Rd. beginning at 7 Florida campus in Parkinson’s; funding cutting-edge p.m. Donation to play Bingo for prizes Tampa. It is one of research to advance toward a cure is $20. There will be a food truck, rafmore than 40 and providing free resources for peo- fles and of course beer. Contact grassroots events ple living with Parkinson’s and their Kathy at fishhawk@rsbaffliate.com. taking place across families. On Thursday, March 21, Team the country this To register and to Move it for Phil is hosting Bingo & Team Tomahawk is hosting Pizza for year. Funds raised donate, visit www.movBrews at Leaven Brewing, 11238 Parkinson’s at Bloomingdale Pizza. Stop in through Moving ingdaytampabay.org for Boyette Rd., beginning at 6:30 p.m. between March 25-28 and the team will receive Day will support 10% back from your purchase. The donation to play cutting-edge Bingo for prizes is $15. Parkinson’s.” research and community programs to Enjoy live music, food More than just a improve the lives of people with truck, raffles and local Parkinson’s disease and their families. walk, Moving Day Tampa brews. For more informaBay is a celebration of moveOne million Americans are living tion, contact Monique at ment featuring a kids’ area, a with Parkinson’s, with 60,000 people Monique.monaco@addictcaregivers’ relaxation tent newly diagnosed each year. Moving ed2events.com. and a special Movement Day Tampa Bay is a fun and inspiring From Monday to Pavilion with yoga, dance, fundraising event that unites the comThursday, March 25-28, munity in the fight against Parkinson’s. Tai Chi, Pilates and other Team Tomahawk is hostSince 2011, Moving Day events across activities—all proven to help ing Pizza for Parkinson’s the country have raised more than $17 manage Parkinson’s sympat Bloomingdale Pizza, toms. million to improve care and advance 4334 Bell Shoals Rd. in Ed Robaczs of Valrico, Three local fundraisers will help raise dollars for local teams working Valrico. Mention Team research toward a cure. who has been diagnosed to support the upcoming Moving Day Tampa Bay, A Walk for “Moving Day is fun, it is great Parkinson’s on Saturday, April 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 Noon at USF. Tomahawk when you dine with Parkinson’s and is parexercise and it’s educational,” said in or take out lunch or dinticipating in this year’s walk, Megan Willard, Community more details. If your company would ner between those days and 10% of said, “It means the world to see my Development Manager. “But mostly, like to sponsor or exhibit contact your bill will be donated to Moving Day friends and neighbors coming out to the support of the community enables Megan Willard at 940-7246 or Tampa Bay. For more information, bring attention to the Parkinson’s comus to continue to make meaningful mwillard@parkinson.org contact skrobaczs@yahoo.com. improvements in the lives of those with munity. Living each day with Members from the
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Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
The Straz Center Offers Theater Lovers A Taste Of Everything
Staff Report
Exciting things have been happening at The Straz Center during the 20182019 Season. The line-up of touring Broadway blockbusters, a powerhouse opera series, a dramatic and thought-provoking play series and a remarkable collection of dance, theater, music and educational events have added an exciting vibe for local theater lovers. “We are really proud to be able to bring so much high quality performing arts to the Tampa area on our stages and in our school and in the community,” said President and CEO Judy Lisi. “This is a special season for us, and we hope for our entire community.” Excitement has filled the air since it was announced Hamilton was going to play in Tampa at The Straz Center. It is currently making its run and will continue through Sunday, March 10. There is still a lot to see during the 2018-2019 season at the Straz Center. The 2017 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical Dear Evan Hansen comes to The STRAZ Center from Tuesday to Sunday, April 9-14. It is the winner of six 2017 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, and the 2018 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theatre Album. A letter that was never meant to be seen, a lie that was never meant to be told; a life he never dreamed he could have. Evan Hansen is about to get the one thing he is always wanted: a chance to finally fit in. Anastasia will take place from Tuesday to Sunday, May 7-12. This dazzling show will transport you from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the
The Lightning Thief: Percy Jackson
Hamilton
Dear Evan Hansen
Anastasia
There is still a lot more to the Broadway season at The Straz Center.
mystery of her past. Kinky Boots, winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical in 2013, returns for a limited engagement from Friday to Sunday, May 17-19. It was inspired by true events and takes you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan. Take a step in the right direction and discover that sometimes the best way to fit in is to stand out.
Come From Away takes to the stage from Tuesday to Sunday, June 4-9. On 9/11, the world stopped. This is the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night and gratitude grew into enduring friendships. The 10th Anniversary tour of Rock of Ages will be in town from Tuesday to
Sunday, June 11-16. Broadway’s best party is turning up the volume. Nominated for five Tony Awards®, Rock of Ages captures the iconic era of 1980s Hollywood. Bring the kids to see The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical from Tuesday to Sunday, July 9-14. It is based on the best-selling DisneyHyperion novel by Rick Riordan. The Greek gods are real, and they are ruining Percy Jackson’s life. As a son of Poseidon, Percy has newly discovered powers he can’t control, monsters on his trail, and is on an epic quest to find Zeus’s lightning bolt to prevent a war between the gods. It was nominated for three Drama Desk Awards including Best Musical. No season would be complete without Best of Tampa Bay. The area’s premier food event, a benefit for the Straz Center’s education and mission-based programming and organized by The Producers volunteer group, is scheduled for Saturday, April 6. Single tickets for most performances in the Straz Center’s 2018-2019 season will go on sale to the public on Friday, July 27 and are available online at www.strazcenter.org beginning at 10 a.m. and by phone and in person at the Straz Center Ticket Sales Office beginning at 12 p.m. The Straz is located at 1010 N Macinnes Pl. in Tampa. For tickets or more information on all upcoming events, visit www.strazcenter.org or visit the Box Office Monday to Saturday from 12Noon-8 p.m. or Sunday from 12 Noon-6 p.m. Call 229-7827.
March 2019
Page 27
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Technology Win Offers Full Service IT Department To Schools, Non-Profits
Old Sweetbay Finally Finds A Fit With New Charter School
Technology Win not have a dedicated husband and wife tech support staff learn team Henry and how to improve their Julie Burroughs technology skills and have made it their keep things running on mission to help their own. They offer churches, schools, workshops as well. “We nonprofits and busidon’t want to fish for nesses with budgetyou, we want to teach ing, implementation you how to fish with and troubleshooting your technology,” said of technology. The Burroughs. Burroughs started Services include: Photos courtesy of Henry Burroughs Henry and Julie Burroughs founded consultation with leadtheir company in Technology Win in 2015. 2015, and they ership teams regarding serve the greater Tampa Bay and surtechnology planning and budgeting, as rounding areas from their office in well as device and app/program selecBrookwood Office Park at 3439 Brook tion, management and distribution; Crossing Dr. in Brandon. training and mentoring with IT staff to “Our vision is to encourage a posigrow skills as needed, troubleshooting tive, tech-integrated and innovative culissues that arise; professional developture that is reflective of life in our digital ment for teachers on the use and inteand connected society,” said gration of new devices or tools being Burroughs. implemented; presentations for the Henry Burroughs spent just over 12 school community on new technology, years as a Director of Technology at innovation and digital citizenship; and two different private schools, overseemobile maker-space where they will ing technology and instructing teachers bring a 3D printer to the classroom. how to implement it into the classroom, Henry Burroughs also presents at among other things. He has a Bachelor numerous education tech conferences of Science degree in Computer Science every year, talking about everything with a minor in Mathematics from from 3D printing to how to set up Wifi. Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, “It’s all about bettering education so Florida and Julie Burroughs has a that we can better the future of our Bachelor of Arts degree in International community through our kids and paying Business with a minor in Mathematics it forward,” said Julie Burroughs. from Eckerd College as well. For more information Technology Technology Win focuses on helping Wins, please visit its website at small schools and businesses that do www.TechnologyWin.com.
Where Valrico cusdating about 50 tomers once shopped classrooms and for food to put on the office space. table a new tuition-free A large part of public charter school is the school’s footprint taking shape to nourish will be the parking young minds. lot. Aguilar said they Navigator are working with trafAcademy of fic engineers to use Leadership, a K-8 its 110-vehicle capacschool with a SMART ity to mitigate potenAn old Sweetbay store is being curriculum emphasizing transformed to a new charter school tial congestion on in Valrico. science, math, art, Bloomingdale Ave. reading and technology with an expected and Bell Shoals Rd. due to school trafenrollment of about 1,000 students, will fic. be housed in the long-vacant 58,505 sq. As a Hillsborough County district ft. former Sweetbay supermarket at 1101 public charter school, Navigator Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico just east of Academy follows state mandated stanBell Shoals Rd. dards in curriculum content and assessThe conversion is being done by ment. Students will take standardized MG3 Developer Group of Hollywood, tests, but preparation for those exams Florida. MG3 has developed several are not the school’s focus, according to charter school projects throughout the Ivan Hernandez, who works with Aguilar state, including BridgePrep Academy of to manage the academy’s academics. Riverview. “They will not be taught to the test,” According to Melissa Prado Aguilar, he said. “We believe in asking not ‘are who is part of the educational services you teaching it,’ but ‘are the students provider team for the school, the end learning?’” he said. result of the transition from an unused The curriculum also includes art supermarket will be a high-quality facility and music instruction to complement appropriate for education when it opens technology offerings that range from in the fall. robotics to space exploration. “It allows us to repurpose a building The school’s location will help fulfill that’s been a hidden eyesore,” she said the educational needs of the growing of the property that has been unoccunumber of families in the area, said pied since 2009. “There’s been a lot of Aguilar. due diligence by the developer for this.” “It seems parents in this area want Most of the work involves changing choice.” the interior space from one containing For more information,visit navigatorashelves and display cases to accommo- cademyvalrico.com or call 863-866-7566.
By Nick Nahas
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Legendary Oak Ridge Boys To Perform At 2019 Strawberry Festival The legendary classic country music icons, The Oakridge Boys, will be entertaining fans at the Strawberry Festival in Plant City. The group is well-known for having one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry. The harmony of The Oak Ridge Boys have produced dozens of country hits and has resulted in Grammy, Dove, Country Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards as well as an induction in the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, TN. Recently they were honored to sing Amazing Grace at the funeral of President George H.W. Bush. The Oak Ridge Boys-Richard Sterban, Duane Allen, Joe Bonsall and William Lee Golden-bring more than 45 years of tradition to the stage. They are a staple at the festival and have been part of the headline entertainment participating in the festival for more than 25 years. “We love performing in Florida and the Strawberry Festival,” said Sterban with his legendary deep bass voice. “We may just hold the record for the most performances there.” In 2018, The Oak Ridge Boys were the first performers to christen the Strawberry Festival’s new $5.5 million amphitheater. Their tour takes them to more than 150 locations each year, but the Strawberry Festival is one of their favorite venues.
By Kelly Wise Valdes
“Florida is such a beautiful state,” said Sterban. “We always get a few flats of strawberries when we’re there.” Sterban says that their performance this year will naturally include the fan favorites as well as some music from their new album, 17th Avenue Revival, produced by highly sought-after, Grammy-winning Nashville producer Dave Cobb, who has produced records for county music stars including Chris Stapleton and Jason Isbell. The Oak Ridge Boys recorded the album in the historic RCA Studio A in Nashville, where other legendary artists recorded, such as Elvis, Dolly Parton and Chet Atkins. “17th Avenue Revival marries oldtime rockabilly with a gospel sound,” said Sterban. “It’s meaningful music that represents the revival of soul and spirit. It’s a great balance.” The Oak Ridge Boys are sure to entertain during their family-friendly, fun performance that will aim to please the classic country lovers as well as hopefully bring new fans to experience the timeless music of The Oak Ridge Boys. “You can count on hearing Elvira, oom poppa, oom poppa, mow mow,” said Sterban. “I think that’s the law.” They will be performing on Thursday, February 28 at 3:30 p.m. at the Florida Strawberry Festival located at 303 N. Lemon St. in Plant City. Tickets are $20. For more information, visit www.FLstawberryfestival.com.
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Volume 18, Issue 3
FishHawk Fellowship’s Expansion Builds A Bridge Between Church And Community By Amanda Boston
work in the hearts of our people, where people have given sacrificially to make it happen.” He continued, “While some were skeptical that this could really be done, so many have seen their faith and trust in With more than 3,000 in attendance, FishHawk Fellowship Church (FFC) unveiled its brand-new multi-purpose building to the community with a ribbon cutting ceremony during its Saturday night and Sunday services on February 9 and 10. Since its inception in 1998, FFC has sought to be part of the fabric of FishHawk by FFC had three grand opening celebrations during its worengaging the family-oriented ship services on Saturday night and Sunday morning. and sports-driven community with events like its Eggstravaganza and God really grow to see this vision become summer basketball camps. But even with a reality. This place was never really adding additional services, FFC’s weekly about us. It was always about how we attendance of more than 2,000 left little can reach this community.” room for visitors and new members. To help with the cost, FFC also ran “Since our Senior Pastor David the BYOC campaign ‘Buy Your Own Whitten shared his vision to reach the Chair,' which encouraged church memcommunity seven days a week, our bers to purchase chairs for each of their church comes together in a big way to family members and one for a neighbor raise $5.5 million to build this space comat $100 per chair. FFC raised the pletely debt-free,” said Pastor Daniel $130,000, which will pay for all the Butson. “It’s amazing what happens when chairs in the new worship building. people come together.” Pastor Butson explained, “It’s more The newly constructed space will than just the chair. We believe every extend FFC’s reach into the community chair represents someone who needs with larger church gatherings, multiple hope, love, and meaning in our commusports ministries, concerts, guest speaker nity,” He continued, “We believe when events and more. The building seats people sit in these chairs that’s exactly 1,300 people and features a full-size what they’ll find. For so many years, gymnasium, a café, brand new area for we’ve seen marriages restored, people babies and toddlers and a state of the art find forgiveness, hope, and life in worship space for Saturday and Sunday Jesus.” services. One of the first major events schedThe new space also affords the uled to take place in the new building is youth ministry and children's Awana mina marriage conference on Friday, May 3 istry to meet simultaneously on and Saturday, May 4. Also this summer, Wednesday nights. Awana will continue FFC will kick off its sports ministry, to meet in the other facilities with the which will include summer camps, kid’s youth ministry now taking up residence in basketball leagues and group fitness the new building. classes throughout the week. Senior Pastor David Whitten said, For more information, visit “Once we made the decision to build this www.fishhawkfc.org. It is located at building debt-free, we witnessed God 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia.
March 2019
Page 29
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
JW Tree Service Helps Church
By Michelle Caceres
JW Tree Service or removal, owner Troy Alexander’s commitAlexander is pasment to sustaining sionate about trees the beauty of the and his faith. A memenvironment is ber of FishHawk apparent with each Fellowship Church, project. Alexander had the Alexander said opportunity for his homeowners need two passions to to be on the lookout merge recently as he for the borer beetle, transformed the that is wreaking church’s new parking havoc on oak and area from a tangled pine trees. web of trees and “When I moved JW Tree Service owner Troy Alexander brush to a visually isn’t afraid to go out on a limb for his here 20 years ago customers, who include FishHawk appealing and clean they weren’t a probFellowship Church. expanse. lem but I am seeing FishHawk Fellowship’s operations more and more trees infested with them pastor Eddie Fabelo said about at an alarming rate,” he said. “I’m in Alexander that the final result was fanFishHawk Trails every week helping tastic. homeowners with trees that are infest“Before Troy and his team completed.” ed the job you couldn’t see the church If homeowners notice bore dust from the parking because there was so (what looks like sawdust) around trees many low-hanging trees and brush,” he and exit holes in the timber that appear said. “Now the new parking lot looks like round or oval in shape with sharp it’s a part of our complex, it’s much edges, a borer beetle infestation is posmore cohesive.” sible. Alexander recommends BoraAlexander brings his passion to Care to treat the infestation, which can each of his customer’s projects, from be purchased through Amazon. Leaving pruning and beautifying to tree removal. the job to a professional is also an “Shaping trees and canopies is an option. art form,” he said. “It’s important to creJW Tree Service is licensed and ate something that is pleasing to the insured and ready to tackle any project eye without destroying the integrity of big or small. the tree.” If a permit is needed for the job, Springtime is a perfect time to Alexander takes care of the necessary prune trees to remove dead, diseased paperwork with the appropriate governand overgrown branches. Pruning is ing body, whether homeowners’ associespecially important for trees growing ation or the county. close to homes so they won’t adversely JW Tree Service comes highly recaffect windows or roofs. With hurricane ommended by its past customers. season approaching, pruning helps to “I absolutely recommend JW Tree remove old and rotting branches that Service,” said Fabelo. “Troy is a man of could become flying debris during integrity and says what he does and he storms. does what he says.” Whether working in an orange For more information about JW grove clearing diseased trees or helping Tree Service or for a free estimate call residential customers with tree trimming 601-7091.
LGC Hair Restoration Celebrates 5 Years, Moves To New Location
By Amy Schechter
When a small sales/fittings/styling. business reaches its Clients often want to five-year anniversary, explore the ALLIEVE it is a huge milestone. Process, which unlike Laura Craig is celeany other conventional brating this achievehair replacement procement with LGC Hair dure mimics natural hair Restoration moving to growth, as well as a Elite Salon Suites in prescribed cranial prosthe Brandon thesis, which is a cusCrossroads plaza. tom-made wig comFrom this new locale, prised of the finest she will be able to European hair or provide her clients Syntress fiber. Craig is with the same lifealso skilled in a variety changing, non-surgiof typical salon services Laura Craig is the owner/operator of to help hair appear cal permanent hair LGC Hair Restoration. loss solutions, in a thicker and fuller such more comfortable, but equally private as color services, perms, and haircuts. environment. She works with men, women, and chilCraig is so excited and thankful to be dren, and she has a solution that can able to continue helping people realize help you achieve the look you desire. the self-image they desire after five years LGC Hair Restoration is now located in the community: “At the beginning I inside Elite Salon Suites between Baluka wasn’t nervous, but as I put my heart and Billiards Lounge and the My Gym in the soul into growing this business, I realized Brandon Crossroads plaza at 2064 how I just had to make this work. I have Badlands Dr., Ste. 3 in Brandon. clients that really count on me, and this Business hours are Tuesday-Friday by just pushes me to keep going. I really appointment only with times ranging have a good bunch of people. They are between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. or on so appreciative and caring.” Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. With nearly 30 years of experience For more information or to schedule as a stylist, Craig specializes in helping a consultation/appointment, call 990clients who experience hair loss to restore 9234. Visit the website at www.lgchairtheir positive self-images through a varirestoration.com/ or find them on ety of techniques including: non-surgical Facebook at www.facebook.com/lgchairmedical grafting, non-surgical permanent restoration. Other inquiries can be director semi-permanent hair replacement, hair ed via email to extensions, and private, personalized wig laura@lgchairrestoration.com.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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safely than will ever be exposed to gun violence. Just as we are spending money on hardening the school campuses, we need to spend money on busing to ensure kids are safe, as well as, reduce congestion. We are spending a lot of efforts on public transportation and school buses are also public transportation.”
a teacher? Why did you decide to become a calling to be a teacher so felt I As a student in high school, struggle in one form or anoththat I could help students who rking in low income schools er. For instance, I started out wo ted to make sure each stuas a special needs teacher. I wan ded to have a successful future. dent got the chances they nee
cher? What is a goal of yours as a tea ke an impact on my students ma can I t Each year, I pray tha , in a way that they feel loved, safe e Th ts. den stu d and are empowered to be goo and their motivastudents' enjoyment of school y can be are of tion to be the best student the t to be able to utmost importance to me. I wan becoming say that I contributed to them tributing con independent, productive, and members of society. ething that What is a hidden talent or som dents? would be surprising to your stu guage I know basic American Sign Lan stumy h and share my love of that wit t in den stu ge han dents. Also, I was an exc in ily fam a h wit high school, living England.
Ms. Zorr illa has b for 24 y een a teacher ears.
why? What is your favorite book and life. h is woven into the fabric of my fait my as I would bring my Bible, e been a rassing moments while you hav What is one of your most embar teacher? class. I did it ts in a competition with their PE I was running with my studen change of a e hav I did proper clothing, nor on a whim so I didn't have the t I had wet ugh tho ts den stu my en I run and clothes…I sweat quite a bit wh my pants. saying? What is your favorite quote or ore starting need wait a single moment bef ody How wonderful it is that nob Fran to improve the world. – Anne
Volume 18, Issue 3
Newsome students Sydney Strickland and Mia Cafaro pose for a picture after they interviewed Rep. Beltran, School Board Vice Chair Melissa Snively, Principal Bruning and Deputy Alonso for the school newspaper.
As Rep. Michael Beltran (R), Hillsborough is prepares for the legislative session beginning in early March in Tallahassee, he will focus his efforts on school safety, making it his top priority. Umbrellaed under school safety Rodgers Middle School Resource Officer comes single point access, discusses school safety issues with Rep. Beltran and School Board Vice Chair Melissa Snively. gates and security, bus transportation, safe roadways, safe Newsome’s Principal, Carla sidewalks and crosswalks, school Bruning, stated, “We are like a colresource officers and mental health. lege campus of over 3,050 students Hillsborough’s school board vice enrolled and approximately 760 stuchair Melissa Snively invited Rep. dents coming and going due to virtuBeltran to walk the campuses of al, dual enrollment at HCC and homeMarion S. Rodgers Middle schoolers.” Bruning School in Riverview and adds, “Before, the strict Joe E. Newsome High security was viewed as School in Lithia. “As we are an inconvenience to parupon the anniversary of the ents and students. Now, mass shooting at Marjory the district is behind our Stoneman Douglas High efforts and people can School, school safety is in see the big picture of the forefront of the district’s what school administrapriorities. Beltran will have tion has to deal with to his own kids entering the keep our students safe.” school district in a few As Beltran walked years, so education is Newsome’s campus, the important to him. Walking students demonstrated the campuses allows him to the hard corner in the see and experience it for event of a shooting. himself,” said Snively. “We Bruning explained that a are asking for additional funding to hard corner is an out of sight area fund resource officers on every where students cannot be seen from school campus. It costs almost $17 the door window. Newsome students million and the district falls short Mia Cafaro and Sydney Strickland about $7 million after the state funds explained some classrooms have $10 million.” extra safety steps put in place for preRep. Beltran discussed with ventive and protective measures. Rodgers Middle School’s Resource Knowing they have monthly safety Officer about his own driving experidrills at school to make them feel ence. “I was driving and kids were more safe, as well as, knowing the biking in the road and walking on the district is training teachers and guidshoulder and I had to look out for ance counselors to help students with them. I fear parents late for work or mental health brings the students late for school and the temptation to comfort. “I would definitely talk to one drive a little faster–it is dangerous.” of my teachers that I feel comfortable He sees the congestion, dangerwith if I ever felt the need,” said ous walkways and crosswalks in the Cafaro. mornings and afternoons in his own For more information about community of FishHawk Ranch. He school safety, please visit added, “We spend a lot of money in www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/departments/9/se terms of preventing shooting incicurity/about/. For more information dents, which is very important. Traffic about Rep. Beltran, please visit is also a safety issue and a lot more https://public.lobbytools.com/legislakids are exposed to getting to school tors/737.
March 2019
Page 31
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Tough Competition Leads To Winner For Annual Bloomingdale Idol Title
By Kate Quesada
A Bloomingdale on the ukulele for High School sophoher first round, more won an excitDon’t Rain on My ing title last month. Parade for the secGabrielle ‘Brie’ Ray, ond round, where a 15-year-old the number of conBrandon resident, testants went from competed against nine to four, and an 17 other students Italian aria called and came away Se Tu, M’ami for the with the title of final. Bloomingdale Idol. “Going into it I According to the didn’t really expect school’s Director of to win since it was Brandon resident Gabrielle Ray was my first time and I Choral Activities, named Bloomingdale Idol 2019 last Jason Locker, this month. The other finalists were Thalia was really just there Diaz, Kylee Sutherland-Maxwell and for the experience,” year marked the Kaitlyn Whitt. 12th annual said Ray, who plays Bloomingdale Idol contest run by the the piano, ukulele and guitar and Bloomingdale Ambassadors group. often acts in school plays and The contest, which like American Community Theater. “But this experiIdol, is strictly for solo singers, is ence only furthers my passion for made up of three rounds judged by classical music and musical theater, music teachers from other local something I’d one day love to do for schools, including Andrea Peacock, a living.” the Burns Middle School choral direcThe second place award went to tor, Thomas Desmond from Braden Thalia Diaz with Kylee SutherlandRiver High School, Miguel Oquendo, Maxwell in third and Kaitlyn Whitt in director at Barrington Middle School fourth. and Joey Canessa from Strawberry The event also featured a return Crest High School. performance by 2018 Bloomingdale “The contest is completely stuIdol Natalia Ramos. dent-led,” said Locker. “There is a Bloomingdale High School is committee of Ambassador Officers located at 1700 Bloomingdale Ave. in that listen to auditions and select the Valrico and can be reached at 744contestants.” 8018. For more information on the The student’s musical selections event, contact Locker at Jason.lockcan be from any genre. Ray perer@sdhc.k12.fl.us or visit formed Hopelessly Devoted to You www.bloomingdalechorus.com.
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Page 32
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Sports 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Volume 18, Issue 3
Connection By Nick Nahas and Photos courtesy of Bloomingdale Baseball
2019 Bloomingdale Bulls Baseball Team Looks To Defend Its District Title
Myles Caba winds up to pitch.
The Bloomingdale High School baseball team is looking to build off of a successful 2018 season in which they won their first ever district championship under 12-year Head Coach Kris Wilken. The Bulls (18-8) eventually lost to a very talented Plant team in the regional quarterfinals in an extra-inning thriller. According to Wilken, he has a special team this year. “This team seems really unique,” he said. “The players are all very hard-working kids with great grades, and the chemistry between them has been better than any team I’ve had. What I’m looking forward to most is seeing how much impact all of those factors will have on our overall success.”
With eight key starters The Bulls huddle up for a fall game against Riverview. returning Myles Caba (South Florida for the 2019 season, the Bulls look like a State College signee) and team that can repeat as 8A-District 6 senior Justin Mcallister will pitch the majorchamps and make some noise in the ity of innings. Dylan Martin will get some regional playoffs. The offense will be led crucial innings as well. by senior outfielder Bryce Hazzard (Nova “I’m looking forward to seeing what all Southeastern signee), junior Wake Forest this talent can do,” said Gonnella. “Our commit Brock Wilken, junior dual-sport team is filled with athleticism, and I’m lookathlete Dominic Gonnella, junior ing forward to seeing what all that hard infielder/outfielder Jackson Hobbs, last work is gonna produce. I’m thinking it season’s team MVP and South Florida could be something special.” State College signee Nico Saladino, and “Our goal as a team is simply to comsenior Presbyterian College signee Kyle Merkle. Ace of the pitching staff, senior
The Bulls dog-pile after winning the district championship last season.
pete and win every game no matter the opponent,” said Caba. “We also want to defend our district championship and make a run to the state championship.” Bloomingdale will host the Preseason Classic starting on February 19. The Bulls will play Armwood and King in the tournament. “We want to find our identity as early as possible and what our capabilities are,” said Wilken. “Once we know who we are and what we are capable of, it’s maximizing our capabilities and sticking to our identity every day.”
March 2019
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 33
Bloomingdale Hosts Special Olympics “IncrediBull Games”
Newsome Track And Field Star Commits To FIU
On February there were about 15, Bloomingdale 15-20 different High School groups from the hosted its fourth school that annual Special helped out. Olympics field Every student day event called (called a buddy) the IncrediBull is paired up with Games. The an athlete, and school hosted 15 they take them schools from the around to comeastern side of pete in their Photos by Bloomingdale High School Yearbook Team Hillsborough events. Several Bloomingdale hosted its fourth annual County. classes helped IncrediBull Games. About 335 set up games athletes competand activities in ed in track and the Olympic field and soccer Village where events. Donna athletes could Hart, ESE hang out and teacher at have a fun time Bloomingdale, while they waitand Principal ed for their Sue Burkett were events. inspired by a According to similar event held Hart, about 450 In total, there were about 335 athletes that at Gaither High students from competed. Athletes getting ready to compete in School and wantBloomingdale an event. ed to do somevolunteered their thing comparable time this year to for the schools put this on for on the eastern the athletes. The side of the counnext event will ty to compete in be held at the as well. same time next “It’s a great year. They start school-wide planning for the event, and a way event at the very that everybody beginning of the comes together school year, and Students from Lennard High School were to make everyit takes about six among the participants. thing happen for months to get these athletes,” everything lined said Hart. “It’s up and ready to just a great expego. rience.” “The event Some of the is a time where schools that our special athcompeted letes are able to include be included in a Newsome, sporting event,” Armwood, Plant said Hart. “It City, Durant, gives the athRiverview, East letes and the The event included 15 schools from the eastern students at Bay, Lennard, side of Hillsborough County. Spoto, Brandon, Bloomingdale an Strawberry Crest, Burns Middle School, opportunity to develop friendships, it’s a Giunta Middle School, Willis Peters big inclusion event. The support that the Exceptional Center and Simmons partners and athletes show back and Exceptional Center. forth is probably the best thing of the Students from different sports teams school year for all of us. It’s something and clubs at Bloomingdale volunteered that everybody benefits from and looks to help with the event. Hart said that forward to.”
On February records for shot put 6, Michael Russin and discus at fulfilled his dream Newsome his and signed a freshman through scholarship for junior seasons. He track and field to was class president Florida for his last three International years of high University. “It school, he is a senmeans a lot ior senator in stubecause it’s somedent government, thing that I’ve president of the always dreamed of Helping Others in my life,” said Today club, presiRussin. “All the dent of the Green work that was put Club, was inducted Michael Russin earned a track and field in has finally paid into the National scholarship to Florida International University. off.” Honor Society, Russin was on the varsity track and Spanish Honor Society and Rho Kappa, field team at Newsome all four years, and and he won Homecoming King. he competed at AAU events as well. “Mike is a great kid who works During his time in high school and AAU, extremely hard and was a pleasure to he participated in shot put, discus, javelin, coach,” said Newsome Coach Kevin triple jump and long jump. At FIU he will Sharp. “I wish him all the best at FIU, and strictly be a thrower, competing in shot know he will do well in whatever he purput, discus, javelin and hammer for Head sues.” Coach Ryan Heberling. Russin, who had In addition to Coach Sharp, Russin many scholarship offers, said that he also credits his success to his parents, his chose FIU because of the players and former coach Patrick Callaghan, and his coaches, and that it felt like home when strength and conditioning Coach Joe he visited the campus. Osborn at Southeast Elite. The track and field star had a much Russin will major in business real decorated career, not only as an athlete, estate and land development at FIU. He but as a student as well. He was the would like to win a conference champiteam captain this past season; he went to onship and national championship at FIU, the regional finals in his sophomore and and his ultimate goal is to get invited to junior seasons; he was named Most the Olympic trials. He would like to go to Valuable Field Player for the team in grad school for commercial real estate 2016, 2017 and 2018; and he holds the and land development as well.
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Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Former Newsome Football Players Use Local Sports Agent For NFL Potential Local lawyer and sports agent Glen Lansky has several clients that are in the NFL and some that have potential to get drafted into the league. Since 2005, Lansky’s Elite Sports Agency has represented over 100 NFL football players. Among the potential future NFL players are two Newsome High School graduates-North Dakota State running back Bruce Anderson and University of Alabama Birmingham defensive tackle Bentley Easley, who are both eligible for
By Nick Nahas
Photos courtesy of Glen Lansky
UAB defensive tackle Bentley Easley signs with Glen Lansky.
Glen Lansky with North Dakota State running back Lance Anderson.
this year’s NFL draft coming up in April. Bruce Anderson recently played in the Senior Bowl for top NFL prospects. Lansky said that Anderson has a great chance to be the first player from Newsome High School to ever get drafted. Anderson played for North Dakota State where he was an All-American. According to Lansky, Anderson has all the skillsets that NFL teams looks for, including pass blocking, receiving and running. He plays special teams as well. “It’s really nice to be a local sports agency and represent local players,” said Lansky. “It doesn’t happen very often.” Lansky’s law group, Lansky Law Group, also offers a $1,000 college scholarship each year to a Newsome graduate heading to law school. They are currently accepting 500-word essays on why applicants are interested in law and why they think they would be a good lawyer. They will award a scholarship in April of this year. The cut-off for applicants is Friday,
March 15. Please send applications and essay to office@LanskyLawGroupFL.com to submit. Other clients include Bucs linebacker Garrison Sandborn, Patriots linebacker Albert McClellan, 49ers running back Matt Breida and Edmonton Eskimos quarterback Trevor Harris. Other players that are eligible for this year’s draft include, Kentucky cornerback Chris Westry, Alabama State safety Kurron Ramsey, Akron linebacker Brian Bell and Mississippi Valley State wide receiver Quin Mcelfresh. “It’s really exciting to be able to represent local players, especially good-character kids like these,” said Lansky. “We only try to deal with the good-character kids that are dedicated and determined to make it. Most of our guys have been undrafted free agents over the years, so it’s been really nice to see them excel in the league.” Anderson and Easley are also planning to host a pre-draft football camp in mid-April for high school football players to talk about their experiences and run through some drills and skills at Newsome High School. For information, visit the website at ESAFootball.com and www.FishhawkLawyer.com.
Community Invited To Soccer Family Night
By Kate Quesada
Local families Shaping Souls, a are invited to have charity providing new fun for a good shoes for students in cause this month. need at Hillsborough The Florida Hawks County elementary Futball Club schools. (FHFC) is hosting “Camden has its annual Spring been playing with the Kick Off event Hawks for many Friday, March 8 years and we are so with fun for the proud of her work, Florida Hawks whole family and not only on the field, Futball Club is the chance to help but especially off the hosting its Spring those in need. field,” said Collins. Kick Off event on Friday March 8 The event, “She is helping from 6-9 p.m. which the club change lives and we holds twice a year are excited to be able to support her.” to kick off the spring and fall recreAt the Kick Off event, Grant will ational seasons, will take place from 6- be available to accept donations and 9 p.m. at the FishHawk Sports give more information about her chariComplex. Activities will include games, ty. bounce houses, soccer fun and more. FHFC offers competitive soccer “The Spring Kick Off is just anothfor boys and girls from six to 18 years er way to give back to the community,” of age and recreational teams from said FHFC Club Administrator Annette four to 11 years of age. There are also Collins. “We are excited to kick off a adult recreational programs for playnew recreational season and have ers 19 and older. people learn more about the club while Save the date for the club’s comhaving fun.” petitive team try-outs the week of May There will be a DJ and food will 6. For more information to sign up, be available from Chick’s Coop, visit www.floridahawksfc.com or call Tallulah’s Table by the Sea, Mr. C’s 436-9377. The Fall Kick Off event will Grilled Cheese and Chief’s Chill Out. take place at the new soccer fields at Kona Ice will also be on site offering the FishHawk Sports Complex, locatsweet treats. ed at 16112 FishHawk Blvd. from 6-9 For this year’s event, the club is p.m. on Friday, March 8. partnering with Newsome High School To learn more about Souls student, and Hawk’s soccer player, Shaping Soles, visit www.soulsshapCamden Grant. Grant started Soles ingsouls.org.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
The Florida Orchestra Has The Power To Rock And Move You
By Kelly Smith
In March, The favorite classics, featuring Florida Orchestra songs from Lion King, starts out rocking Evita, Phantom of the before delving into Opera, Les Miserables some of the most and many more. William beautiful music ever Waldrop conducts. written. All live, with The Creation (March concerts in Tampa, 22-24): Haydn’s crowning St. Petersburg and achievement takes all the Clearwater. Here are drama of creating the highlights: world and transforms it Women Rock into a resounding choral (Friday to Sunday, masterpiece, featuring Shayna Steele is one of the performers paying tribute to women soloists and the Master March 1-3): This who changed rock’n’roll in the Raymond James Chorale of Tampa Bay. Women Rock Pop concerts. Pops concert pays Michael Francis conducts. tribute to the women who changed rock Free tickets are available for kids and ‘n’ roll forever, including Carole King, Tina teens in advance to this and to all Tampa Turner, Janis Joplin, Aretha Franklin, Pat Bay Times Masterworks concerts. Special Benatar and more. Featuring I Feel The performance will take place on Friday, Earth Move, What’s Love Got To Do With March 22 at Idlewild Baptist Church in It, Proud Mary, Hit Me With Your Best Lutz. Shot, I Love Rock n’ Roll and You Make Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1 Me Feel Like A Natural Woman, with pre- (Friday to Sunday, March 29-31): Michael miere vocalists, and conducted by Bob Francis leads one of the world’s most Bernhardt. A special performance will sought-after pianists, Benjamin take place Friday, March 1, at Busch Grosvenor, on Brahms’ Piano Concerto Gardens in Tampa. No. 1 , along with a deeply moving perThe French Connection Coffee formance of Schoenberg’s Transfigured concert (Thursday, March 14): French Night, played mostly in the dark. Free works that are simply fantastique featurtickets are available for kids and teens in ing Debussy’s Clair de Lune, Gounod’s advance. Funeral March of a Marionette and SaintThe Florida Orchestra performs reguSaens Danse Bacchanale. Stuart Malina larly at the Straz Center in Tampa, conducts. Free coffee and doughnuts Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth served at this morning matinee. Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. The orchestra Broadway Tonight (Saturday & offers affordably priced tickets to a variety Sunday, March 16 & 17): Performers of concerts. See FloridaOrchestra.org, or straight from Broadway revisit your call 727-892-3337 and 800-662-7286.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
March 2019
Page 37
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Winthrop Arts Presents The 11th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival And Market This March
Come visit the beautiful Winthrop Town Centre and enjoy two days of fine arts, food, fun arts activities and more at the 11th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market set to take place on Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
The 11th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market will be held on Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Winthrop Common located in beautiful Winthrop Town Centre in Riverview. The park is located at the corner of Hadley Commons and Winthrop Commerce Ave. (behind Boca and Ciccio’s). Several things are new this year. This includes partnerships with Tampa Bay Food Trucks and Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture and the Arts (TBBCA). Tampa Bay Food Trucks will have four trucks on Saturday (Miss Vi’s Cookup, Vietnamese Food Truck, Tallauah’s Table by the Sea and Chief’s Chillout). On Sunday, there will be three trucks (Mr. C’s Grilled Cheese, Casablanca Fusion and Craving Donuts). TBBCA is sponsoring four chalk artists who will be creating original works of art on Saturday at the festival. Susana Weymouth, Executive Director for TBBCA said, “TBBCA Chalk Walk is thrilled to support the special genre of skilled commissioned chalk artists and to bring free, fun, family friendly live art experience to the heart of the Winthrop Arts Festival and Market and the community.” The 11th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market is a juried fine arts show with over $5000 in prize
money. The show attracts fine artists and artisans from all over the country. This year, the show will be judged by three distinguished judges. The judges include John Costin, an award-winning artist who creates original etchings and watercolors; Kathy Durdin, a signature member of the Florida, Southern, Texas, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Tallahassee and Florida Suncoast Watercolor Societies; and Victoria Saunders, cofounder of MAKE Plant City, winner of the Rising Leader 2019 award and a watercolor and acrylics artist. Bryant Martinez, Lead Art Instructor at the Winthrop Arts Art Factory and Winthrop Town Artist said, “We are pleased to be partnering with Tampa Bay Food Trucks and TBBCA. This, in addition to live entertainment, the children’s activity area and all of the artists and artisans who are participating will make this the best festival ever.” “The 11th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market is a free event, and the community is invited to come out and enjoy a great day of art and family fun,” added Martinez. Winthrop Arts is still accepting applications from artists, artisans and vendors. There are sponsorship opportunities available as well. For more information, please visit www.winthroparts.org or call Kathy at 758-5161.
Tampa Theatre Announces New Speakers Series, LIMELIGHT The Tampa Theatre is pleased to announce the launch of its new Speakers Series called LIMELIGHT. In this series, the Tampa Theatre will welcome some of the nation’s most inspiring thought leaders to its historic stage. The Limelight Speakers Series is made possible thanks to support from the Vinik Family Foundation. Jill Witecki with the Tampa Theatre said, “This exclusive new series is unlike anything Tampa Theatre has ever produced, bringing speakers from a wide range of cultural pursuits and a broad palette of experiences to Tampa Bay to share their stories with our community.” The 2019 LIMELIGHT Speakers Series will kick off with Lou Holtz on Tuesday, March 12. Lou Holtz is a legendary football coach and was an ESPN Analyst from 2004 to 2015. Next, Michio Kaku will make an appearance on Thursday, April 4. Kaku is a Theoretical Physicist, Professor, Futurist and a New York Times Best-Selling Author. On Tuesday, April 23, Jenna Hager, a best-selling author, Contributing Correspondent for NBC's Today Show, Chair of UNICEF's Next Generation, and an Editor-at-
Holtz
Kaku
Hiaasen
Platon Legendary football coach, Lou Holtz, will kick off the Tampa Theatre’s new LIMELIGHT Speaker Series on Tuesday, March 12. Other speakers include Michio Kaku, Jenna Hager, Carl Hiaasen, and Platon.
Large of Southern Living Magazine will be in Tampa. Best-selling novelist, Newbery Honor winner, and Miami Herald columnist, Carl Hiaasen will speak on Tuesday, May 14. Finally, Platon, worldrenowned, award-winning photographer, and founder of The People's Portfolio will appear on Thursday, June 6. Tickets for the LIMELIGHT Speakers Series are available as a fiveevent ticket bundle and are on sale now. The tickets range in price from $375, $325 and $275. A select number of Platinum packages are also available for $625. These tickets include premium seating and a cocktail reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar from 5 to 6 p.m. each event night. The above tickets can be purchased at the Tampa Theatre Box Office located at 711 N. Franklin St. in downtown Tampa. You can also purchase tickets online at www.tampatheatre.org, but please note, there is a service fee attached with online ticket purchases. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. and the speakers begin at 7:30 p.m. The Tampa Theatre was built in 1926 and is one of the country’s bestpreserved movie palaces. For more information on the LIMELIGHT Speaker Series and to learn more about the Tampa Theatre, please visit www.tampatheatre.org.
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Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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Broadway Everyday Star Theater To Present The Original Play A Talent For Murder
By Kathy L. Collins
Overhauled 2019 Ram Takes The Honors
Six years inch aluminum ago, the Ram chrome-clad 1500 won North wheels draw American Truck attention too. of the Year Take a seat up award. And in front and your 2019, the full-size eyes will fall first pickup was once on the mamagain picked for moth 12-inch the honor by U.S. UConnect 4C and Canadian touchscreen automotive journal(make it split ists at the recently screen!) for naviconcluded North gation, audio American (hello Apple International Auto CarPlay and Show in Detroit. As Android Auto) they say, history and phone conrepeats itself. trols. The cabin It’s a totally offers a stowing redesigned, almost place under the all-new Ram, rear seat as well which was as in-floor bins, RAM 1500 LIMITED launched as a stand-alone dual glove boxes, and Wheelbase: 144.6 inches Length: 232.9 inches truck brand in 2009. And several USB ports. Best of Width: 82.1 inches what a pickup this one is, all is the innovative center Height: 77.6 inches whew! With wheelbase up Tow capacity: 11,200 pounds console area, which has by 4, width by .5 and bed room in its smartly hidden Fuel capacity: 33 gallons City: 15 mpg (5’ 7”) height by 1.5 inchcompartments for a smartHighway: 21 mpg es, and a 225-pound phone along with wireless Base price: $56,195 weight reduction, this charging, a 15-inch laptop, Price as tested: $64,800 overhauled pickup delivers full-size file holder, cup Web site: www.ramtrucks.com an exceptional ride with a holders, and a tablet holdprecise steering feel. er. Other amenities are Turning ability for the 5,302-pound Ram is auto dual-zone a/c, 8-way power heatoutstanding at a curb-to-curb radius of ed/cooled front seats, tilt/telescopic 46.2 feet. Before we forget, it is wood/leather steering column, 9-speaker ensconced on 98 percent high-strength sound system, overhead sunglass holder steel and a 100-pound fewer frame and a 40/20/40 rear fold seat. weight. Dual front and side airbags, side curThe 5.7-liter V-8 Hemi engine cranks tain airbag for both rows, rearview camout 395 horsepower at 5600 rpm and era, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake 4010 pounds-feet of torque at 3950 rpm. assist, blind spot monitor with cross-path A standard 8-speed auto gearbox shifts detection, front/rear park assist, remote gently and effortlessly. A welcome change start, tire pressure monitoring system and in this year’s Ram is the use of a five-link daytime running lights are standard. coil spring suspension in the rear and an However, numerous safety options are upper, lower A arms/coil springs up front. available, which will fetch you an off-road With the hydraulic pump nixed, the new package or such features as lane deparelectric power steering is lighter by 6 ture and forward collision warnings. pounds. Further fuel savings are seen The revamped pickup packs tons of when the eight cylinders deactivate while power while boasting abundant cruising or at slower speeds. creature/tech comforts and praiseworthy ‘Get out of the way’ screams the towing figures. If you would like to ‘head colossal chrome-slathered grille hosting down, ready to charge’ on the road, we the chiseled Ram’s head logo, bi-function- suggest going for the 2019 Ram 1500. al projector headlights, fog and tail lamps, It’s one decision you won’t regret as the and elevated aluminum hood. The 20awards continue to pile on.
Assisted Living for Memory Care Day Stay & Respite Programs
Support Groups for Caregivers Call today to visit our community.
We can work together to give your loved one the best possible care.
Live the Moment… Love the Moment™
Students for tickets. in kinderA Talent For garten Murder is an through 12th original play writgrade who ten by Welch are interestwhen she was in ed in the art high school. The of theatre play tells the should check story of the stuout dents of Riverton Broadway High School who Everyday are getting ready Star Theater Students who want to learn all about or improve for the annual (B.E.S.T.). talent show. their theatre skills should look into Broadway Everyday Star Theater (B.E.S.T.). At B.E.S.T. B.E.S.T is a Everyone is every student is a star. They will perform the community excited until original play A Talent For Murder this March. theatre for someone is murchildren. B.E.S.T. provides growth and dered. The audience becomes the knowledge through the art of theatre. detectives as they try to figure out who B.E.S.T. is committed to producing killed last year's winner. You can count shows that will entertain and educate. on interaction between the audience B.E.S.T. was founded by Katie and the cast. The person who solves Welch who said, "We are an all-incluthe mystery will win a prize. sive community theatre. We have Welch explained, "The reason I actors who have performed in other chose to produce this play is because plays as well as actors who are perall of the characters have significant forming in their first or second play." roles. Most plays have one or two main Welch added, "We are especially proud characters and the rest have very few of our actors and actresses with spelines or are in the ensemble. This play cial needs." In B.E.S.T. each actor has has main lines for everyone and most the opportunity to play a significant role will perform in the talent show." while having fun and improving their Welch added, "We want the comtheatre skills. munity to know that Broadway The actors of B.E.S.T. will present Everyday Star Theater is where everyA Talent For Murder on Friday and one is a star." Saturday, March 15 and 16 at Mary For more information and to Help of Christian Catholic Church become an actor with B.E.S.T., please located at 6400 E. Chelsea St. in visit www.bestshows.org, email broadTampa. Tickets are $10 per person and wayeverydaystartheater@gmail.com or $5 for students. You can call 416-9574 call 416-9574.
Hours: 6am - 10pm South Brandon
Lake Brandon Village
(813) 571-0569
(813) 655-1237
2010 Bloomingdale Ave, Brandon 11325 Causeway Blvd, Brandon
www.chickfilabrandon.com
A tip from our experts:
Hydration, hydration, hydration. Someone with dementia will
drink up to 87% more by simply switching to a red cup.
Assisted Living Facility #9739
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk
In This Section THOMAS THE TANK VISIT...............PG 45 WONDERS OF WILDLIFE .................PG 47 DAMSEL IN DEFENSE ......................PG 49 INTO THE WOODS PLAY..................PG 50
March 2019
TMS Of Central Florida Treats Depression With Noninvasive, Drug free Treatment
Volume 18, Issue 3
Ph: 657-2418
TMS of Central Florida is Brandon’s exclusive TMS provider of NeuroStar Advanced Therapy for noninvasive, drug-free treatment for depression in adult patients. TMS is an ‘FDA Approved’ medical proceRedefine Beauty Aesthetics celebrates its first year dure that delivers highly anniversary with a ribbon cutting. focused MRI-strength mag- TMS of Central Florida will help you years with sionalism and netic pulses to noninvasive- treat your depression in a noninva- Enterprise respect. It prides sive drug free way. ly (without surgery) stimuHoldings, he will itself on providing outstanding and late the brain and treat major depresuse his talents to provide commercial accessible treatment to adults and sion. TMS is performed in a psychiainsurance and risk management soluadolescents with substance use disortrist’s office under their supervision tions to Hispanic-Owned businesses. ders. while the patient remains awake and By using the already cutting edge It offers a continuum of services, alert. Patients do not require anesthetechnology employed by FRP in conincluding care for co-occurring behavsia or sedation and return to their daily junction with his own life experiences, ioral health issues such as routine immediately after each treatDuran will be able to provide best depression, anximent. in class services, which has typiety, attention TMS of Central Florida is owned cally been an underserved market. deficit disorder, and operated by three prominent psyWhile his talents will not be capand bipolar disorchiatrists, Charles DeVine, M.D.; tive to Hispanic-Owned businessder. Treatment is Kathleen Carroll, M.D.; and Troy es only, that will be his emphasis. complemented by Noonan, M.D. To schedule an appointDuran is located at 1434 healthy activities ment, call Sandy Lopez, TMS Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Call and services such Coordinator, at 423-7037. 888-601-6660 (x 106) or visit as life-skills training, www.floridariskpartners.com. health education and family reintegraNew Hispanic-Owned Business tion to help our clients maintain proPractice Leader At Florida Risk High Quality Care At Phoenix ductive lives in recovery. Partners House Phoenix House Florida offers outRafael Duran has joined Florida patient services in Brandon and genPhoenix House Florida delivers Risk Partners as the Hispanic-Owned der specific adult residential treatment the highest quality of care with profesBusiness Practice Leader. After 19 in Ocala. For more information, contact
SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS..........PG 51 Angela Beers at abeers@phoenixhouse.org or 881-1000.
Get Your Philly Pretzels In Riverview
If you are from the Philadelphia area, your mouth waters at the thought of a soft pretzel. John and Michele Maffei recently opened Tampa Bay’s first Philly Pretzel Factory in Riverview, offering fresh baked pretzels with all types and dips for all tastes. Enjoy fresh hot soft pretzels, pretzel dogs, cheese steaks, cinnamon pretzels and party trays. The Maffeis, who are originally from Philly, have always dreamed about opening their own location and are spearheading the company’s development in Tampa. As a business owner, Michele is also a proud supporter of her community with her involvement in Seeds of Hope. Hours are Monday and Tuesday 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Wednesday to Saturday 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Philly Pretzel Factory is located at 11244 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.
Continued on Next Page
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Business Column Continued...................
By Michelle Colesanti
Redefine Beauty Aesthetics Celebrates One Year Anniversary
Redefine Beauty Aesthetics recently celebrated its first year in business with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. All patients deserve to be treated with honesty and respect, and the staff prides themself in making realistic goals and results for our patients to have the best nonsurgical outcomes. It is located at 405 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. Hours are 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Late and Saturday appointments are available upon request. Call 8203138 or visit redefinebeauty.co.
Valrico. Lunch will be served. Call 888875-3223 now as seating is limited. A Grand Prize drawing (one syringe of filler up to $1,200 in value) will be held at the event. ImageLift is located at 3314 Henderson Blvd., Ste. 201 in Tampa. Hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 4639245. Visit www.ImageLift.com or Facebook.com/ImageLift.
The Kyrie Center for Body, Mind & Spirit
ebration kicks off with live music all day as well as four food trucks, Anniversary Glassware, beer specials and games. The festivities will continue through the weekend. Bring your kids, bring your dogs and bring your neighbors. Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. is located at 3632 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Call 703-8835 or visit www.bullfrogcreekbrewing.com.
Simply Advocating Helps With Tough Decisions For Your Loved Ones
Are you having a difficult time findThe Kyrie Center, located at 101 ing the perfect living arrangements for S. St. Cloud Ave. in Valrico, is a new your loved one? Do you need more school and business geared guidance and resources? Simply toward those interested in perAdvocating will help. sonal growth. In addition to sellWith over 20 years of caring expeing crystals, jewelry, motivationrience in the healthcare industry, it will al books and CDs, doTerra help you and your loved one make the essential oils and difficult decisions artwork, several disciplines easier. are taught, providing tools MPact Services Inc. Offers Services include to students for use in Electronic Recycling & Disposal Facility Advisors, everyday life to help them Donna and Matt McCarty are the Patient Advocate owners of MPact Services, Inc., a fam- acquire a sense of clarity Services and Mobile and to generate holistic ily-owned business, catering to small Notary Services. growth. The Kyrie Center and large companies by providing a Please call teaches Shihando, which complimentary service to properly and Jessica McNeave at means Way of the Master. safely dispose of end-of-life electron373-3261 or A grand opening event A ribbon cutting was recently held for Melanie Camp at ics. will be held Friday, March Water Filter Warehouse. It accepts televisions, telephones, 205-2799 for a free 22 at 6:30 p.m. and will computer equipment, office equipment, consultation. feature some of the county’s most sucaudio/visual equipment, household cessful business women. This free electronics and appliances. Public Welcome To Grand event will be hosted by Lynn Freeman, It is located at 2632 Causeway Opening Of State Farm-Quentin D. Reiki Master and Grandmaster of Center Dr. in Tampa. Hours are 8 Sanders Agency Shihando. Discover your potential by a.m.-4:30 p.m. For more information, Please join in the grand attending an evening of inspiration, call 644-4996 or visit www.mpactseropening of State Farm-Quentin motivation and insight into vicesusa.com. D. Sanders Agency on self-mastery. Saturday, March 9 at 11 a.m. It Reserve your space by Seminar Teaches How is located at 1076 E. Brandon calling 267-474-4717. Image Lift Can You Blvd. No. 214. Call 330-7407 or Leave a message with Help You Refresh And please visit https://yourbrandonyour name and number Look Younger agent.com. and how many seats you Would you like to would like to reserve. Your look younger, yet avoid Blooming Nails Now Open seating will be confirmed. surgery? Dr. Rich Blooming Nails is now open Hours are Monday to Castellano, an artist and at 2056 Thursday, 9 a.m.-1 award-winning double Bloomingdale Ave. p.m. and 4-9 p.m.; board-certified facial in Valrico (in the Friday, 4-9 p.m.; plastic and reconstrucBloomingdale and Saturday, 9 tive surgeon, is the #1 Walmart plaza). Owner Dr. Rich a.m.-3 p.m. Bellafill facial filler injecTommy Nguyen said this Castellano, tor in the United States, Board-certified facial plastic and new nail salon offers a Bullfrog Creek reconstructive surgeon. performing over 3,500 beautiful, spacious and Brewing One Year facelifts under local anesthesia. relaxing atmosphere. It Anniversary You are invited to a Facial Beauty specializes in nail Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. Social Mixer Seminar on Wednesday, enhancements, maniwill be celebrating its one year April 3 at 1 p.m. at River Hills Country cures, pedicures and anniversary on Saturday, March Club, 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in waxing. 23 from 12 Noon-12 Midnight. The cel-
Volume 18, Issue 3
Hours are Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sunday, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 654-6510 for an appointment or more information.
Get Your Dirty Trash & Recycling Bins Cleaner By FishHawk Bin Cleaners
Neelo and Dania Alvarez are the owners of FishHawk Bin Cleaners, who will clean your dirty trash and recycling bins using a state of the art system. The cleaning process not only cleans, but sanitizes your bins, eliminating 99.9 percent of germs commonly found in them. Your bins are pressure washed using 190 degree water, which will remove every drop of dirty water when finished, disposing of it in an eco-friendly manner. Several programs are available to provide the option that best suits your needs. Hours are 9 a.m.-9 p.m. For more information, call 843-2000 or visit www.FishHawkBinCleaners.com.
Better Water Means Better Health
Water Filter Warehouse recently held a ribbon cutting with the Valrico FishHawk Chamber. It offers wholesale water filtration systems to the public. According to owner Dan Kelleher, it can save consumers thousands of dollars compared to competitors. Products offered include water softeners, reverse osmosis, water coolers and shower filters. Water Filter Warehouse is located at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. It is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.2 p.m. For more information, call 877247-0624 or visit TheWaterFilterWarehouse.com.
March 2019
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
Superior Residences Of Brandon Memory Care Makes Life Easier And Better For Senior Residents
By Taylor Wells
Superior can enrich their lives. Residences of Several improveBrandon Memory ments have already Care and its senior been made. The purresidents can look forchase of a new proward to living gram called It’s Never enhancements in the 2 Late ® (iN2L)—a near future thanks to system designed to SRI Management, assist older adults in Changes at Superior Residences of LLC and changes in the use of technology Brandon Memory Care will make the lives of older adults experiencing memo- to enhance quality of ownership. With Hry loss easier and more enriching. Bay Ministries, Inc., a life through pictureTexas-based non-profit organization, havbased, touchscreen interfaces—has ing taken over Super Residences of allowed further aid in senior living. Brandon Memory Care in late June of The iN2L program helps residents 2018, it was decided that SRI participate more easily in multiple areas, Management would operate it and continsuch as sports, physical fitness, games ue being its management firm, a decision and puzzles, music therapy and many that is already showing much promise. others. Even residents further along in There is no change in its overall polihealth debilitation can interact with iN2L. cies with H-Bay Ministries’ new ownership Superior Residences has also pursince SRI Management continues manag- chased 18 drums from Drum Magic for ing, said Jill Andrew, Senior Sales and drum circles, increased the amount of staff Marketing Director of Superior Residences members and it is making structural of Brandon Memory Care. “But H-Bay improvements such as new flooring, furniMinistries has now enabled us to become ture, landscaping and upgrades to coma not-for-profit community,” she added. mon areas. Now it even has four certified As Superior Residences is now a dementia practitioners, which is unheard 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization with of for one building. There are also, of this new relationship, the facility has been course, future plans to enhance senior livable to make marked improvements for ing experiences. “By being a not-for-profit seniors’ living experiences. now, it has enabled us to better service “We’re in the process of infusing capi- those that may be challenged financially,” tal dollars into the property as a result of said Andrew. “We’re for a broader populathe sale,” Andrew said. tion now.” SRI Management seeks to do more Superior Residences of Brandon than just managing senior housing organi- Memory Care can be found at 1819 zations. Rather than simply providing Providence Ridge Blvd. For information, assisted living, SRI instead wants to make call 308-0659 or visit https://superiorbrantrue communities for residents where it don.com.
(813) 654-7300 • 805 East Brandon Blvd • Brandon
tandoorbrandon.com
Monday - Saturday • Lunch : 11 AM - 2:30 PM • Dinner : 4 PM - 9 PM • Sunday : Closed
March 2019
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Full Steam Ahead As Thomas The Tank Engine Visits The Florida Railroad Museum All aboard! Thomas the Tank Engine invites little engineers to go full steam ahead for a day of engaging activities and fun adventures at Day Out With Thomas: The Steam Team Tour 2019. Children are invited to spend a day with their friend Thomas when the #1 Engine pulls into Parrish on Saturday and Sunday, March 9 and 10 and Friday to Sunday, March 15-17. Day Out With Thomas: The Steam Team Tour 2019 is presented by Mattel. This fun-filled event offers children and their families the opportunity to take a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, star of the popular Thomas & Friends™ series. In addition, they will meet Sir Topham Hatt, Controller of the Railway and more. The tour, now in its 24th year, will make 37 stops across the U.S. and Canada and is expected to welcome nearly one million passengers in 2019. Take a 25-minute ride on a talking Thomas the Tank Engine and meet and greet with Sir Topham Hatt. A variety of activities will be featured at Thomas & Friends Imagination Station. There will be an all-new ‘Ask an Engineer’ booth where kids can talk to an engineer and learn about trains and working on the rails. A ‘Passport to Adventures’ booklet will be available for children to track their journey at the event and receive a special prize upon completion.
Staff Report
G ET THE DIRT W ITH FLORIDA Y ARD EXPERT
Spring Gardening In Hillsborough County
Bring your younger train enthusiasts out to The Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish on March 9 and 10 and again on March 15-17.
There will also be Thomas & Friends themed activities, including toy play, photo ops as well as storytelling, video viewing and live music. Tickets for Day Out With Thomas: The Steam Team Tour 2019 are on sale now and available by calling Ticketweb toll-free at 866-468-7630, or by visiting www.dayoutwiththomas.com. Thomas the Tank Engine Tour takes place at the Florida Railroad Museum, 12210 83rd St. E in Parrish. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. with trains departing every hour starting at 9 a.m. It closes at 5 p.m. For information and directions, contact the Florida Railroad Museum at 941776-0906 or visit www.frrm.org For information about the wonderful world of Thomas & Friends, please visit www.thomasandfriends.com, www.fa cebook.com/thomasandfriends and for bonus material and exclusive content www.youtube.com/user/thomasan dfriends.
Se Habla Español
March is ready, and thyme. Bulbs proCaladiums from set…garden month vide color, form and Zhanao in Hillsborough texture. Some bulb County. We are past beauties are African the last chance of Lily, Amaryllis, frost, local area garBlackberry Lily, dening festivals are Caladium, Crinum, occurring and we Rain Lilies, Shell can recycle and Gingers and Walking redesign our landIris. scape beds. Watch for Lubber If you have not comgrasshoppers, aphids pleted most of your and mites. Lubbers can pruning, now is a good be ‘pruned’ in half, picked time to shape and off the plant or thrown to reduce the size of landthe ground and stepped scape plants. Don’t on. Who knew gardening prune Gardenias and was this dangerous…at Azaleas until after they least for Lubbers. have bloomed. For ornaInsecticidal soap sprays mental grasses, cut the control aphids and mites Amaryllis stems to 4-12 inches if their natural predators above the ground, (Lady beetles, for one) depending on the size of don’t. Roses should be the clump. sprayed with a fungicide to Recycle your landcontrol black spot and scape clippings in your powdery mildew diseases. compost bin. If you are To learn about the do’s raking oak leaves, comand don’ts of composting, post or use them as sign up for a composting mulch in a landscape workshop offered one bed. Saturday a month at the It’s a great time to UF IFAS Extension mulch. Apply two to three Hillsborough County from inches of organic mulch February through to landscape beds and pull November. View calendar of the mulch away from the stems of events at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsyour plants. Mulch is a great landborough/upcoming-events/. scape addition because it adds nutriFertilize vegetables, perennials ents to the soil when it decomposes, and palms. Check the Central Florida retains soil moisture, regulates soil Gardening Calendar, temperature, suppresses weed http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep450, which growth and is much prettier than provides information on what to plant sand. and what to do month by month. Also, Consider taking a soil sample to view the Florida Vegetable Gardening determine the pH in the area you Guide, http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/vh021, want to plant. For more about soil which provides information about the testing, visit site, plan, soil preparation, adjusting http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ss494. Soil the soil pH, fertilizing, irrigation and testing for pH only is done at the drainage, pest management, nonoffice for $3 per sample. pesticide approaches, using pestiBeans, corn, southern peas, wincides wisely and lists the months durter squash, tomatoes, watermelon, ing which vegetables can be planted. cantaloupe, pumpkin and much more Call 744-5519 or visit the can be planted in March. If you like UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough to grow your own herbs and spices, County, 5339 CR 579 in Seffner for consider basil, chives, ginger, lemon more information. Life is too short not balm, mint, oregano, rosemary, sage to garden.
Don’t just make a new years resolution to get yourself in shape in 2019. Remember your insurance should be reviewed and kept “healthy” just like you! When was the last time you had a complete no obligation insurance review of your personal or business insurance? Se Habla Español 210 S. Kings Ave. Ste. C, Brandon
813-653-0936
info@allinsurancegroup.com
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
March 2019
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 47
New Benzer Pharmacy Offers Free Home Delivery And Personalized Service
Wonders Of Wildlife Festival Aims To Help Birds Of Prey
You won’t find aisles of manufacturer directly, meats, breads or milk at who offered the medicaBenzer Pharmacy, the tion in a different strength. newest pharmacy in She worked with the FishHawk Ranch. You patient’s physician to get won’t find any cosmetics, a new prescription written candy or greeting cards in the available pills either. matched up with the what What you will find at she was prescribed. The this franchised pharmacy is patient was thrilled that a free home delivery for pharmacist was willing to patients with transportation go above and beyond challenges, a pharmacist her expectations. who is eager to get to know “Helping patients is customers on a first-name the reason why I chose a Pharmacist Sabrina Jaglal is career in pharmacy,” said basis and blister packs ready to offer the specialized Jaglal. “I want to provide (individual pill packs for service she could not provide customers with multiple that level of service to at chain pharmacies. prescriptions in order to reduce the risk every patient.” that they will mix up drugs or skip doses). With this level of service patients Personalized care is what people would expect longer wait times. Not so, value in a pharmacy- and where Benzer said Patel. Prescriptions will be filled in as Pharmacy, located adjacent to Mosaic at little as ten minutes. 5603 Skytop Dr., seems to excel. Benzer Pharmacy is open Monday to “People want to be treated like indiFriday 9 a.m.–6 p.m. and Saturday 9 viduals,” said franchise owner Maulik a.m.–1 p.m. It accepts all major insurance Patel. plans, including Medicare Part D, CVS Pharmacist Sabrina Jaglal said that’s Caremark, Express Script, MEDCO and why she joined the staff at Benzer more. Pharmacy. “I have worked at chain pharFor the first six months in business, macies in the past and was discouraged Benzer Pharmacy is offering reduced from having any kind of relationship with pricing on some generic drug options. patients, it was all about the volume of “Big-box pharmacies charge $4 for these medication I could dispense,” she said. drugs but we’ll have that same drug avail“The philosophy here is they want me to able for $2.99 or a three-month supply for build relationships with every patient that $8.99,” said Patel. comes in here.” For more information about Benzer One recent patient came in looking Pharmacy or to transfer a prescription, for a medication that was on backorder. call 548-2493 or visit Jaglal went the extra step, contacting the www.benzerPharmacy.com/lithia-fl.
Nancy family and cenMurrah has a tered around constant stream conservation and of guests filtering education,” said through her Murrah. “I want Brandon homepeople to learn about 25 at any more about the given time, and wildlife in this more than 1,100 area and apprelast year. ciate it.” Some are Murrah is small animals like hoping for a squirrels and racdonation from a coons, but mostly local corporation they are ospreys, Nancy Murrah and Raptor Center of Tampa of a piece of Bay board member Anne Marie Jordan show owls, bald eagles off some rescued birds at Raptor Fest in St. land, ideally Petersburg. and other birds of between five to prey, all rescued eight acres, to by Nancy and build the state-ofher team of other the-art facility, volunteers; all in which will be need of care and open to the pubrehabilitation. lic. The most “We do our immediate need own lab work inis for flight cages, house-on my dinlarge enclosures ing room table,” that allow birds said Murrah, 61, the freedom to who got involved move and fly with bird rescue while they are 10 years ago. recovering. A Eurasian eagle owl, which will be on dis“We really need A 60 ft. flight play at the Wonders of Wildlife Festival, takes cage costs a localized resflight. cue that volunaround $60,000, teers from all over the state can and Murrah estimates the new facility come to for help.” will need 15 of them, along with XMurrah is president of the Raptor ray and lab capabilities. She is hopCenter of Tampa Bay and vice presiing to raise $10,000 at the festival dent of both Tampa Bay Raptor and welcome 1,500 people. Rescue and the Tampa Audubon Admission is $12 for adults and Society. Each is a nonprofit, so children under age 18 get in free Murrah never gets paid. when accompanied by an adult. Tampa lacks a fully-functioning There will be presentations with live rehabilitation center of its own. Bird animals, face-painting, food, live rehabbers, as Murrah calls them, cur- music and educational and shopping rently rescue birds all over the state booths. and must transport them to various Murrah and her volunteers opercenters in Sarasota, Apopka and ate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven even Melbourne. days a week, but will perform a resMurrah said most of her voluncue operation anytime, including teers average between 25,000overnight. 35,000 miles a year, transporting sick “I never take vacations, but that’s or injured birds and releasing them okay,” Murrah said. “What we do is back into the wild. about saving animals; it’s not about On Saturday, March 23 from 10 us.” a.m. to 6 p.m., Murrah and the For more information about the Raptor Center of Tampa Bay will host Wonders of Wildlife Festival and the First Annual Wonders of Wildlife birds of prey rescue efforts, call Festival at E.G. Simmons Park in Murrah at 205-1851, go to www.rapRuskin to raise money to begin the torcenteroftampa.org or visit the process of building a Tampa facility. Raptor Center of Tampa Bay’s “The event will be for the whole Facebook page.
By Michelle Caceres
By Libby Baldwin
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 Masters’ Dojo located at 15856 FishHawk View Drive, in Hillsborough County, in the City of Lithia, Florida 33547 intends to register the said name with the Division of Corporations of the Florida Department of State, Tallahassee, Florida. Dated at Brandon, Florida, this 21st day of January, 2019. Lynn Freeman
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Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Roving With Christ At Grace Christian School Having completed 2,477 projects since 1976, Roving Volunteers in Christ's Service (RVICS) has been providing much help to numerous Christian organizations in need. RVICS is a 501(c)(3), nonprofit, nondenominational Christian ministry for retired married couples of many Christian denominations. Through teams of up to six couples, RVICS offers free services to Christian organizations, such as schools, camps, colleges and universities, churches and more. Last January, Robert and Laurie Norfolk gave their services to Grace Christian School (GCS) from January 7 to January 29. While there, they helped with fences, plumbing problems, painting, pressure washing, new construction, small cement pours and a variety of other projects. “My wife and I are in our eleventh year and have many memories of all the places we have served,” said Robert. “I’m an electrician, but there are [other] projects that I do: carpenter work, or plumbing, or trim trees, or power wash concrete or paint. Whatever is needed.” Robert said that women did a lot of cleaning, painting, organizing, sewing and library sorting. Men at GCS began by installing eight feet high plastic fencing that stretches to 400 feet long. It will be extended by another team in the future. “The students and staff are very friendly and always are thanking us for
By Taylor Wells
being at their school,” Robert said. He explained their plans after their work in GCS. “We will be at the Evangelical Bible Mission in Summerfield, Florida for February, then on to Dothan Community Church in Dothan, Alabama for March. Then it’s time for home in Ohio.” Married couples seeking retirement plans may want to look into RVICS. Through RVICS, you can experience new places, attractions and people; feel spiritual fellowship through Christ; learn new skills as couples work together; have fun through games, bonfires, birthday parties and other things that keep life energized. Couples at RVICS need to be retired or semi-retired; self-supporting; able to travel for three months or longer; have an RV for traveling and extended stays; provide their own hand tools, safety equipment and portable sewing machines; willing to accept direction from RVICS team leaders; and have the skills and talents to help with no charge. RVICS accepts donations, contributions, memorials and honorariums, which are all tax deductible. Donations can be given on its website. For information, visit https://rvics.org. You may also email rvics@rvics.com or call 1-800-727-8914. RVICS' international headquarters is located at 1800 SE 4th St. in Smithville, Texas.
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March 2019
Page 49
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Damsel In Defense Helps To Empower Women In The Community
By Libby Hopkins
Activist Margaret Even equipped with the Sanger once said, tools we sell, they would“Courage is like a muscle. n't see an attack coming We strengthen it by use.” till it was almost too late.” Kim French of Brandon is French loves being a a home health care nurse Damsel in Defense repreand she had to find the sentative and empowering courage to face some difwomen. “I like knowing ficult and sometimes danI've made a difference,” gerous situations. “I have French said. “I leave personally been in danger ladies more aware, more in a home,” French said. confident that they can “I also have to enter ques- Kim French is a local Damsel protect themselves and in Defense representative. She their children. During partionable neighborhoods loves empowering women. after dark to see patients. Damsels in Defense’s mission ties, I get a lot of stories So, I know the risks that about close encounters are to equip, empower and educate others to protect nurses and others face in and sometimes worse. themselves. and around the workThis is often a step in the place. Most of those risks are healing process.” present for anyone who arrives French also offers at work before dawn or leaves empowerment sessions to after dusk.” These types of sitlocal women’s groups and uations are what lead French businesses. “I do Empower to become a Damsel in Hours for any business, Defense representative. church, club or individuals,” Damsel in Defense’s misFrench said. “It's a great way sion is to equip, empower and to learn to be safe and even educate others to protect earn credit for products and themselves. The independent Damsel it's a great way to earn extra income.” representatives are arming their commuIf you would like to learn more about nities with the means to protect themDamsel in Defense and the products selves while experiencing financial freeoffered, you can visit www.damselindedom and offering empowerment and fense.net. French is a local Damsel in healing to those affected by assault. “We Defense representative and if you would are not self defense instructors,” French like to learn more about her said. “We teach personal safety and sell Empowerment Hours, you can contact the tools to accomplish it. For instance, her via email at how many people do you see walking mydamselpro.net/WarriorBride or by around with their faces in their phones? phone at 863-409-4298. That is not practicing personal safety.
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Page 50
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 3
Foundation Christian Academy To Present Into The Woods This April
Shapes Fitness For Women In Brandon Springs Into Renovations
intertwining a childless baker and his wife who are on a quest to begin a family. They interact with both a witch who places a curse on them and other fairy tale characters. Lushanya Barth is the Theatre Director at The Foundation Christian Academy. Along with her The talented students at Foundation Christian Academy in Valrico, under the husband, Cody, they direct direction of Lushanya and Cody Barth, will the school’s productions. In perform Into The Woods on Thursday, April the fall students performed 4, Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6. The community is invited to come see the magical Arsenic and Old Lace, and performance of a popular Sondheim musical. last spring, they performed The Wizard of Oz. The Theatre Department of Barth looks for shows that will allow Foundation Christian Academy in Valrico all of the students in both middle school will present Into The Woods this April. and high school have a part in the proThe Spring production will take place on duction. “When picking the next show to Thursday, April 4 at 6 p.m., Friday, April 5 perform, we watch a lot of other school at 7 p.m. On Saturday, April 6 there will performances,” said Barth. “Our kids are be a matinee at 1 p.m. and then a show exceptional. They are dedicated, hardat 7 p.m. All shows will take place at working, and they glorify God in their posFoundation Christian Academy located at itive attitudes. They are going to knock 3955 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. your socks off with this one,” added Tickets to Into The Woods are $15 Barth. for General Admission and $10 for stuBobbi Williams’ daughter, Justice dents and teachers. The Foundation Deveney plays Jack’s mother in Into The Christian Academy’s production is approWoods. Williams said, “The directors are priate for all ages. Refreshments will be talented. It is exciting for the students to offered during intermission. work with them. My daughter has been in Into The Woods is one of Stephen the Theatre Department for three years. It Sondheim’s most popular musicals. It folhas helped here grow in so many ways. I lows the plots of several Brothers Grimm would like to see this for other children.” and Charles Perrault fairy tales including You can buy tickets to Into The Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Woods by visiting Bean Stalk, Rapunzel, Cinderella and http://buytickets.at/foundationchrisothers. The musical is tied together by tianacademy. You can also call 444-5905.
As spring healthy fitness journey. approaches, many “All our trainers of us are preparing are available for your for spring cleanings meetings, socials and and fresh starts. networking needs this Ann Gilbert, owner spring,” said Gilbert. of Shapes Fitness Shapes will partfor Women, is ner with a nutritionhappy to announce al business that that her Brandon will be offering Shapes Fitness For Women, located at 731 W. Lumsden location is gearing healthy suppleRd. in Brandon, is gearing up up for a springtime mentation, snacks for a $500,000 renovation renovation of its and mini meals. In that will include new equipment and other amenities to make this loca- addition, the nearly own. As part of a tion a state-of-the-art facility. continually growing $500,000 renovanational franchise from coast to coast, the tion will include new equipment, flooring, Brandon Shapes Fitness location will be locker room and a massage room, aqua expanding to offer clients a new small massage and deep stretch therapy. group training area, a Precor active and fit “Our spa amenities will be refreshed training area for physique and strength as and specialized aquatic programming will well as a new weight loss center complete be introduced, including board training, with software supported meal planning triathlon training as well as weight manand consulting. agement and aquatic arthritis specialty “Members will have the option to parclasses,” said Gilbert. “The fitness comticipate in month-to-month programming munity will be welcome; swim lessons for suited to their exact need and goal,” said all ages, water safety and survival coursGilbert. “There will never be a need to es.” sign a yearlong contract. Group fitness The Brandon location as well as programming will include the hottest Gilbert’s second Shapes location in trends in the industry with equipment to Riverview is proud to be part of a growing support the trendy options.” women’s-only boutique style fitness franThe 14,000 sq. ft. facility will stay chise. open during the remodel that is slated to “We will continue to be affordable, begin in the end of March and is estimatdependable and always current,” said ed to take between five – 10 weeks. Gilbert. Shapes is located at 731 W. During this time, Gilbert also plans to con- Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Gilbert’s sectinue her community-wide effort to eduond fitness facility is located at 11357 Big cate women about why being comfortable Bend Rd. in Riverview. in the workout environment decreases Visit www.Brandon.shapesfitnessforobstacles to starting or continuing a women.com for details.
By Kathy L. Collins
By Kelly Wise Valdes
March 2019
Page 51
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Brownstone Insurance Services Simplifies Insurance For Businesses Big And Small
Middle School Makes Big Impact With Dodgeball Tourney To Fund Crossing Guards
By Kate Quesada
By Elisa Santana
Running a educate them on business is a huge what they need responsibility that to do. It is imporcomes with a varitant to see ety of questions clients face-toand challenges. face. This all How much should started for me in you be setting 1989 as a wholeaside to start and saler. I started maintain your college and I business? What knew I wanted to steps should you do something be taking to make that could help sure your busipeople. It ness is successseemed like an ful? How many industry I could Rod Burkhardt (on left), owner of Knowledge Points, is a client of Ryan employees can be helpful in. Hughes (on right). you afford? What Even in high do you require in your employees? school I liked investments.” How do you make your business Brownstone Insurance has clients stand out in your field? all over ten states. The clients range These challenges and questions from businesses of more than a thouare especially true when it comes to sand people to businesses of just insurance, financial planning, and one person. All three men say meetbenefits. ing face-to-face with their clients is “First you need to figure out what essential in making their company [the business] wants to accomplish. stand out. They sit down with a busiEvery business has to take care of ness to discuss what exactly is needtheir employees and business insured. Then they begin to construct a ance. Everyone needs to prepare for plan based on the business’s needs. retirement and take care of their famHe said the biggest mistake he ilies,” owner of Brownstone Insurance often sees is businesses forgetting Services and LPL Financial Advisor about disabilities insurance and what Ryan Hughes says. they can truly spend their money on. Hughes, along with Michael “People don’t spend enough time LaBarbera and John Ciko, started figuring out what it is that they actualBrownstone Insurance in 2003. ly spend versus what they are bringBrownstone Insurance helps small ing in. You may think you want to buy and mid-size businesses with their a lot of things but you need to keep insurance, financial and benefits cash flow. Cash flow is king. They needs. Hughes says they “run the also forget disabilities benefits. They gamut and are a one-stop shop for have their lives, cars, and everything businesses.” else insured. They forget to get disThey provide packages based on abilities in case anything were to each individual need of each busihappen to them. ness. They handle health insurance, Brownstone Insurance Services benefit solutions and financial plans. has two locations – one in North “I have always been in the beneTampa and another in Brandon. For fits business. I spent many years with more information visit mutual of Omaha,” Hughes said. “I https://www.brownstoneinsuranceserlike the planning side of things. We vices.com/home.
Parents at Mulrennan Middle School in Valrico held a dodgeball tournament last month to fund three crossing guards to assist students get to the school safely.
A group of parents at Mulrennan Middle School took their children’s safety into their own hands last month. Frustrated by the conditions for students who walk to the Valrico middle school, the parents raised $13,000 through a dodgeball tournament to fund three private crossing guards. Valrico resident and mother of three Mulrennan students, Danielle Waymire spearheaded the fundraiser when one of her children was almost hit by car while walking to school. “It got to the point where enough was enough,” said Waymire, who walks her children to school every day. “I couldn’t just watch cars regularly not yielding and children almost getting hit without doing something.” Waymire approached the school, the school district and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office asking for crossing guards and continued to get the same answer. “The bottom line is that there is no funding,” she said. Her next step was to find a private crossing guard company and convince the school district to allow the guards if the school could pay them $13,000 for the remainder of the school year. In order to raise the money, the parents and school employees coordinated a dodgeball
tournament with the help of a local business, Dodgeball 2 You. It took less than two weeks for the crossing guards to take their places twice a day directing students and traffic. “They have already made a huge difference,” said Mulrennan parent and Valrico resident Bridget Wilson. “It is amazing how much easier it is to get to the school, even as a driver. It is so much nicer to have the safety in place.” Waymire and Wilson hope that they will not have to fundraise for the crossing guards again next year. The parents are working with Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy White and Sheriff Chad Chronister to request funding for crossing guards at middle schools throughout the county. White added the issue to the agenda at a Board of County Commissioners meeting earlier this month and Waymire spoke on the issue to the board. They hope to get answers soon about funding for next year. “We are so proud of our school and the fact that we were able to make this happen,” said Wilson. “But we are even happier that local politicians have noticed. We are hoping that by the next school year we won’t have to do this anymore.” Mulrennan Middle School is located at 4215 Durant Rd. in Valrico and can be reached at 651-2100.
L AW OFFICE OF DEBRA R. BEL L , P.A. 813-330-0209 5476 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Lithia, FL 33547 BellLawPA@gmail.com
WWW.BEL L L AWPA.COM Debra R. Bell Attorney
EXPIRES: 3/31/19
Criminal Defense - Estate Planning - Guardianship
Page 52
Volume 18, Issue 3
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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