Bloomingdale/FishHawk
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Bloomingdale Resident Receives Lightning Community Hero Award
By Kate Quesada
Pam Stamey of Home Makers of Hope was named a Tampa Bay Lightning Community Hero last month. She is asking for residents’ help in expanding the number of families her charity can reach.
linens, kitchen equipment and decorative pieces. By the time we leave, the house is feeling like a home.” Thanks to generous donations from businesses and residents, Stamey states that the charity’s biggest need is not currently furniture, although they will always accept donations. “We have a warehouse of items and a great network on donors,” she said. “What we really need are volunteers to help us deliver the items to the families.” The charity helped 255 families last year and currently has a waiting list of six months with more than 45 families on it. “We need more truck drivers, warehouse workers, interior designers and people with a passion for changing lives,” said Stamey. Home Makers of Hope currently has three teams serving different areas of Hillsborough County and Stamey is hoping to soon add a fourth dedicated to helping pregnant women. But she cannot do this without more volunteers. “At this time, we set up six to eight families a week, but with help we can do so many more,” she said. For more information on Home Makers of Hope, visit www.homemakersofhope.com. On the website, residents can request a pickup for items, make a monetary donation and learn more about volunteering. Donations can also be dropped off on Tuesdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the group’s warehouse located at 2900 B E. 7th Ave. in Ybor City.
P O S I T I V E
C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
FishHawk Pinch-A-Penny Big Green Eggfest Benefits Canine Memorial
By Kathy L. Collins
The Ninth being used takes Annual Big images from aeriGreen Eggfest al photos with will be a momenexact measuretous one for ments and allows FishHawk Pinchcustomers to A-Penny owners input the tile, Larry, Kathy and pavers and pool Jimmy Rutledge. surface they Eggfest will be want and allows held on them to see what The Rutledge family Saturday, April the ultimate out(shown on right) are 13 from 10 a.m. come would look joining forces with members of the motorcycle group, Nam Knights, like. to 3 p.m. at fund a campaign to build a Canine Memorial 16715 FishHawk towhich When you will be installed at the Sheriff’s Office. Blvd. in the Winn are ready for the Dixie Plaza in Lithia. remodel, Larry will take care of everyThe Rutledges invite the community thing. “If you have a complaint or probto come enjoy Eggfest and celebrate the lem, you can come to me,” said Larry. Grand Reopening of the store, which Jimmy said, “When you have an issue now includes a Design Center. with your pool and you call us, we will At Eggfest, cooking teams from the come out and fix it.” area will be on hand to show off what FishHawk Pinch-A-Penny is your they can do on a Big Green Egg. In addi- one stop shop for everything you need tion, there will be live music, ice cream for your backyard paradise. You can courtesy of Cold Stone Creamery and count on personal service from the children’s activities, including a bouncy Rutledge family. Larry said, “There is house. Attendees can vote for their nothing like this in the area.” Larry favorite recipe and be entered into a rafadded, “We guarantee your happiness fle to win a Big Green Egg Mini Max. and satisfaction.” For a donation of $10, you get entry For information, call 655-3700. into Eggfest, three vote tickets and one raffle ticket. You get to taste what is prepared by the cooking teams and enjoy a InThis really fun event. FishHawk Pinch-AIssue Penny has been elevated to Platinum Dealership level. INFANT/CHILD SWIM LESSONS..........PG 3 All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Canine Unit of the PEPIN’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY ...........PG 11 Hillsborough Sheriff’s Department. 9TH ANNUAL CRAWFISH FESTIVAL..PG 17 Larry is helping the motorcycle group, Nam Knights, put together a camIMPACTS GOT TALENT .....................PG 20 paign to build a Canine Memorial, which SUN ‘n FUN ......................................PG 25 will be installed at the Hillsborough Sheriff’s Office. CHALKLINES....................................PG 40 The new Design Center is a state-ofFAMILY EASTER FUN .......................PG 44 the-art showroom where customers, who want to remodel their pool, can visualize SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 46 their dream of a pool paradise on a big screen. Gone are the days when you READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE had to imagine what the pool would like www.ospreyobserver.com using only small samples. The software
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Bloomingdale resident Pam Stamey and her charity Home Makers of Hope received some well-deserved recognition last month. Stamey was named The Tampa Bay Lightning’s Community Hero at a game in early March, granting the charity $50,000, but she is now asking for help making an even bigger impact with the money. Home Makers of Help is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing essential furnishings and household items to families struggling with poverty. “We help people who are truly poor and can change their lives in an hour with our donations,” said Stamey. The group receives donations of furniture and other household items and passes them on to people, referred to them by 30 local schools and agencies, who cannot afford to purchase the items themselves. “When we go in, we find families without beds, kitchenware, couches or tables,” said Stamey. “They are sleeping and eating on the floor. We are able to help by providing these items as well as
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April 2019 Volume 18, Issue 4 Ph: 657-2418
17
LITHIA
“The Bloomingdale Senior High School choir’s last performance of its trip took place at the Church of St. Nicholas on the Old Town Square in Prague—beautiful! It’s the most famous Baroque church in Prague, and Mozart played the organ here during one of his visits. The chorus closed the performance singing its Bloomingdale Alma Mater!” said chorus parent, Cheryl Kehrmeyer. See the full article in next month’s Bloomingdale/FishHawk edition.
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 4
April 2019
Page 3
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Infant And Child Survival Swim Lessons Could Save A Life
A Kid’s Place Receives Assortment Of Cookies Through Daisy Troop 3229
Most new partaught that are not ents are preoccupied conducive to actual with changing diaswimming or floating pers, sleep schedand I'm having to ules and feedings, ‘unteach’ those but child experts skills.” strongly encourage Bahour teaches all parents to enroll children to inhale their new family before going undermember in infant water rather than self-rescue swim lesexhale because sons. With Florida’s exhaling will cause a sunny weather and child sink and give access to pools and them a constant other bodies of water, it feeling of being out of is an unfortunate statistic breath when subthat children under the merged. She teaches age of 4 make up the the straight propulsive majority of Florida's child type of kicks rather drownings. Even more than the peddling unfortunate is that kicks. Peddling will Hillsborough County led keep children vertical Watch Me Swim has been the state in child drown- teaching aquatic survival lessons in the water and will to infants, toddlers and children for ings in 2018, with 11 only create resistance. more than 19 years in reported deaths, more “Another important Hillsborough County. than the previous two years combined. thing to watch out for are programs that No one knows this better than teach children to jump in the water, turn Riverview resident Kari Bahour, owner of and grab the edge, but don't teach the Watch Me Swim. More than 19 years actual rollback-to-float,” said Bahour. ago, Bahour experienced a near tragedy “What if the edge was not within when she saw the almost lifeless body of reach? Or if there was no edge at all her then 18-month-old son pulled from a like a pond or lake?” freezing pool. Survival swimming skills and self“Thankfully, my son survived the incirescue skills are an added measure of dent without complications, but protection against drowning. Bahour way too many children aren't so lucky,” explains that it is the final layer for said Bahour. “I knew then I needed to when all other layers of protection, make sure nothing like this ever happens such as a momentary lapse in adult to another parent or child.” supervision or a barrier, do not exis; This incident ignited a career change the child would have a good chance of for Bahour, who is now a certified master surviving if taught how to rollback-toswim instructor and has dedicated the float or swim/float/swim. last 19 years of her life to teach actual “My favorite part about what I actuaquatic problem-solving skills to prevent ally do is seeing the transition of a drowning tragedies. timid, screaming child in the water to a “We have a community epidemic and skilled and confident swimmer and drowning does not discriminate,” said ‘aquatic problem-solver’ in the water,” Bahour. “It happens to the best and most said Bahour. “I still get moved and diligent of parents. Children are naturally emotional every time despite 19 years curious and overly confident around the and thousands of students later.” water. Teaching them confidence and Throughout her 19-year career, how to jump in the water without having Bahour has had many success stories proper aquatic skills only puts children in and receives messages from parents more danger.” thanking her for potentially saving their According to Bahour, not all swim child’s life. lessons are created equal and she urges “This if far more than a paycheck parents to do their research before for me. It truly is my passion,” said choosing a swim lesson for their infant or Bahour. “It's what I'm supposed to be toddler. doing. I thank God for the ability to “I often get kids who have been in make that kind of a difference.” other traditional-type swim programs For more information, visit before coming to Watch Me Swim,” said www.WatchMeSwim.com or call 643Bahour. “Many behaviors have been SWIM (7946).
A variety of more than 1,100 312 cookie children and has boxes with flaassisted more vors such as than 470 families. Thin Mints and In addition, the more were disfive-acre campus tributed to five also includes a of the on-site safe, homelike homes at A environment in a Kid’s Place of neighborhood setTampa Bay ting with a priduring Daisy mary focus to Troop’s 3229 keep sibling Hometown groups together Heroes project until a more perDaisy Troop 3229 in Brandon goes to A Kid’s last month. manent placePlace of Tampa Bay during its Hometown The Daisy ment can be proHeroes project. Troop, which vided. consists of 11 girls in the first grade, had A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay the opportunity to adopt a local organiProgram Operations Supervisor, Mary zation to be a recipient of its donated Dozier, gave her input about the imporcookies. tance of education and what the organiDaisy Troop’s 3229 leader, Heather zation does for its children there. “We Rutledge, mentioned how her troop monitor the kid’s grades and do have became involved with A Kid’s Place of tutors that can assist them,” Dozier said. Tampa Bay. Dozier also appreciates its corpo“Several girls in our troop go to rate sponsors, along with all the people school with kids here and they wanted in the community. With the Daisies on to help their peers in need,” Rutledge campus, it brought joy to her as she said. “To add, troops are responsible for believes that this type of involvement selecting the organization, collecting can make a difference in each child’s and delivering the cookies on their life. own.” “Overall, our troop loves learning A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay opened about and working on projects that in 2009 with a mission to provide a safe, involve helping others, our community loving and nurturing home for foster chil- and the environment,” Rutledge said. dren ranging from newborns through the For more information on A Kids age of 18. This unique, state-of-the-art, Place, visit https://akidsplacetb.org. 60-bed facility for abused, neglected or For more information on local girl abandoned children provides a home to scouting, visit https://www.gswcf.org/.
By Kelly Wise Valdes
By Tatiana Ortiz
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Page 4
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HCC Brandon Campus Held Grand Opening For New Hawks Career Closet
CFC037149
By Tatiana Ortiz
Landing a job male and female clothinterview, whether it is ing items, accessories the first one or several, and more. Plus, stucan create a positive dents could also impact on someone’s choose from a seleclife as they get an tion of numerous opportunity showcase sizesl. Students get to their skills. Being keep their outfits as equipped with the right well. outfit can increase conHCC student fidence as well. On Quawn Carter shared March 19, the Career her thoughts about the Resource Center at Career Resource Center Manager at Hawks Career Closet. the Hillsborough “I like the diversity the Brandon Hillsborough Community College, Carmen Community College and clothing items, Kimpson (left) and Dean of Student (HCC) Brandon camServices Julie White (right) prepare especially with the varipus held a grand to cut the ribbon of its new Hawks ous sizes that students Closet Resource Center. opening of its New get to choose from,” Hawks Career Closet durCarter said. ing the week of several free Kimpson stated the events that will occur as this overall goal of the campus celebrates 50 Hawks Career Closet years of innovation and would be to provide stuinspiration. dents with business HCC Career Resource attire. In addition, part of Center Manager Carmen this goal includes growth Kimpson mentioned who with hopes that it could can utilize the Hawks expand college wide. Career Closet. The Dale Mabry campus “Both female and male students can in Tampa also has a Hawk’s Career receive, at no cost, interviewing attire as Closet. long as they notify the career resource “All in all I am very excited about center about the interview or networking launching this and would love for people function,” Kimpson said. to donate as we are accepting gently It all came into fruition through a used or brand new suits and business $1,200 grant from the HCC Foundation. attire,” Kimpson said. With this grant, it provided hangers, sizing For info, contact Carmen Kimpson at labels and much more for the Hawks ckimpson@hccfl.edu. Hours are Monday Career Closet. Students visiting it will get 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Tuesday through outfitted as they may discover a variety of Friday 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Call 259-6590.
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April 2019
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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We Buy C ins We also buy Stamp Collections, Proof Sets, Postcards, and Foreign Coins Buy • Sell • Estimates • Appraisals
CORBIN’S Stamp & Coin
209 N. Kings Ave. • Brandon, Florida 33510
813-651-3266 corbincoin@verizon.net Mon-Fri 9am - 4pm Sat 9am - 1pm
Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pets
Saturday, April 6; 2-3 p.m. Kim’s Natural Foods – 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.
Master Gardener Library Program: Right Plant In The Right Place
Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico Wednesday, April 3; 6:30-8 p.m. – Wonderful Begonias Learn about different varieties; history and propagating. Presentation by Master Gardener Susan Jewell Wednesday, May 1 – Edible Flowers Try something different. Plant an edible garden. Learn what types of flowers are edible for cooking. Presentation by Master Gardeners Richard Seedroff and Barbara Glotzback. Bring plant or other gardening item for fun Plant Swap. Email Richard@seedroff.com or call 303-638-3917 for more info.
East Hillsborough Democratic Club
Tuesday, April 9; 6 p.m. Meet & Greet; 6:30 p.m. Speaker O'Brien's Irish Pub & Grill; 701 W. Lumsden Rd.; Brandon. Speaker for April is Bradley Van Waus from Nurses United/Medicare for All. Visit www.easthillsboroughdems.org.
Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Thursday, April 4, Tuesday, April 16; Thursday, May 9 and Tuesday, May 21 at 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 message after 4:30 p.m.
Gardening Classes At Kerby’s Nursery And Landscaping
2311 S. Parsons Ave.; Seffner Saturday, April 13; 10 a.m. - Butterfly Gardening If you want your garden to be filled with butterflies this year, come to this free seminar to learn about the best plants for attracting nature's little miracle. Saturday, April 27; 10 a.m. - Growing Fruit Trees Learn how to plant, water, prune and fertilize fruit trees to get great harvests in any space.
Plants, Pollinators Aand Professionals - Making Gardening Great
Saturday, May 18; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 5339 CR 579, Seffner The cost is $10 and includes a gift bag containing a gardening book, rain gauge, hose nozzle, water bottle and free soil test, one per household. Plant, recycled yard art and other vendors will be on-site. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions. Pre-registration required. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-florida-friendly landscaping-101-plants-pollinators-and-professionals-tickets-54994188097
Congregation Beth Shalom
Shabbat Services – Fridays; 7:30 p.m. at 706 Bryan Rd., Brandon Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. All welcome. Call 681-6547.
Master Gardener Plant Clinics
Riverview Library, 10509 Riverview Dr. Tuesday, April 2; 6:30 p.m. Veggies in the Landscape – Speaker: Harriet Gord-Noghani Incorporate vegetables in small and unique places in your garden. Learn what types grow best here. Tuesday, May 7; 6:30 p.m. – Open Forum with Master Gardeners A panel of Master Gardeners will be available to answer your landscape questions. Class participants encouraged to bring samples and questions for group discussion. Call 273-3652 for more information.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
WUSF Announces Collaboration With StoryCorps ‘One Small Step’ Initiative WUSF is excited to be one of just six public media stations selected nationwide to participate in a new StoryCorps initiative designed to reclaim America’s civil discourse. One Small Step aims to break down boundaries created by politics and remind us of our shared humanity. Funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and StoryCorps, One Small Step brings two people together who have differing political perspectives and asks them questions that reach the core of their beliefs and the emotional experiences that brought them there. The purpose of these interviews is to provide an opportunity for people to share personal feelings and experiences and to enable those who disagree to listen to each other with respect. Rather than spark additional political debates, One Small Step encourages answers to questions like, “Was there a moment, event or person in your life that shaped your political views?” and “What scares you most when you think about the future?” These kinds of questions help people discover the root of their own political stances on various issues. The format allows participants and listeners who may disagree on policies to understand better why others may feel differently. There is no blame and no right answer, only lived
By Faithe Estes
experiences that participants can share with one another. StoryCorps Founder Dave Isay explains the importance of One Small Step, “Our nation is divided. Much of what is driving that division is fear and a lack of understanding and empathy for those with whom we don’t agree. We hope that One Small Step will provide a beacon of hope during these difficult and divided days.” To date, StoryCorps has collected interviews with over 500,000 Americans. These conversations are then preserved for posterity at the Library of Congress, which is where the One Small Step stories will also be stored. “Our station is honored to be a part of this very special and important initiative,” shared WUSF General Manager and Associate Vice President JoAnn Urofsky. WUSF is eager to hear from voices in the Tampa Bay and hopes to obtain a diverse selection of participants for One Small Step. All backgrounds and opinions are welcomed and encouraged. There is no cost to participate. Interviews are currently being collected and will continue to collect them until it has 25 (by May or June). If interested in participating, please visit www.wusf.usf.edu and click on the ‘One Small Step’ tile for more information.
FishHawk Ranch (Lithia) Community Garage Sale!
Saturday, April 27th 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. DON’T MISS THIS EVENT!
HUNDREDS OF HOMES PARTICIPATING! Look for signs at entrances off Fishhawk Blvd. and Lithia-Pinecrest
FishHawk Ranch
Market Day
Sunday, April 7th & May 5th Market Hours: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Park Square @ FishHawk Ranch (16144 Churchview Dr. Lithia)
FREE
for Spectators and Shoppers!
40 + unique vendors
MARKET RUNS THE THE FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH THROUGH MAY.
For more information, call 813-657-6629.
Volume 18, Issue 4
Preview Incoming Mail With The Informed Delivery® Feature
By Taylor Wells
Do you ever find on which they opt-in yourself waiting for for. Package tracking specific letters or information on Priority packages to arrive? Mail® Priority Mail Want to make sure Express®, and other mail that should be trackable parcels are arriving makes the included. journey home and has Some other types not been stolen or of mail, such as maggone missing, or just azine and catalogues, want to keep track of also cannot be digitalyour mail deliveries? ly imaged and so they Informed Delivery is a handy feature will not be seen in Then the United that lets you view incoming mail States Postal Service Informer Delivery whenever and wherever you are (USPS) has a new notifications. If these through various devices. feature that can prove items are scanned, a a great help. message in notifications will inform Informed Delivery® is a free feature users that they are being delivered. that is perfect for previewing incoming This useful feature has already mail whenever and wherever you are gained many users, currently numbering through your computer, tablet or mobile over 15 million, and almost 160 thoudevices like phones. The feature boasts sand users are added each week. security and privacy, the ability to leave Informed Delivery works for mail delivery instructions and schedule redeliv- sent to either homes or PO boxes, but ery, package tracking and allowing users those who have and wish to see mail for to view delivery statuses via emails, texts both must create separate personal or their Informed Delivery dashboards. accounts for each address. Updates on deliveries will come once a To use the feature, read, print or day, typically before 9 a.m. local time. download the How to Sign Up for The feature works by having the Informed Delivery step-by-step guide at fronts of letter-sized mail digitally imaged https://usps.force.com/faq/servlet/fileFiel so users can see pictures of what is com- d?entityId=ka3t0000000CfgOAAS&field ing. Up to 10 of these images can be =Related_Information__Body__s. seen, and the remaining mail images can To learn more about Informed be viewed on users’ dashboards. Delivery, visit However, images of packages are https://informeddelivery.usps.com/box/p not made, so Informed Delivery users are ages/intro/start.action, and for more updated on package information through detailed information and questions, status updates via their dashboard, check the FAQs page linked in the URL emails and/or text messages, depending above.
April 2019
Page 7
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
First Free Women's Rehabilitation Program Opens In Tampa Bay Area
By Richard Hodder
The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Hillsborough County has opened its new women's program. Since 1950, the ARC has been providing a six to 12 month residential program to men who want to A rendering of the building that houses the new Salvation Army solve their alcohol women’s rehabilitation program in Tampa. and drug prob“Since December of last year, the lems. Now, with the construction of a ARC is able to help women in their separate residence, the ARC offers own safe environment. Just like the its 12-step, faith-based, long-term rest of our country, Tampa Bay is rehabilitation program to women. having to find solutions to the opioid The rehabilitation program is crisis and sex trafficking. Now The funded completely by the unwanted Salvation Army can provide hope to items people donate to get recycled women in our community who want in The Salvation Army Family Stores. to conquer these terrifying problems,” The ARC residents do not have any said Administrator Major John Reed. out-of-pocket costs or need any To support this much needed health insurance coverage. community service, people can The women's residence contains ten bedrooms; each bedroom houses schedule a free truck pickup of their three women. The facility includes an unwanted items by calling 1-800-SATRUCK or visiting SATRUCK.ORG. intake office, library/two classrooms, To get involved with the new offices/conference room, kitchen, dinwomen’s program, ing room, great room, recreation contact katherine.reed@uss.salvaroom, fitness room, laundry/hair cuttionarmy.org or 972-0471 ext. 59170. ting station, and two resident manThe ARC is looking for women sponagers’ bedrooms. The ARC also has sors, a women’s committee dealing a new chapel, seating 250 persons with recovery, and a special projects for both the men and women beneficiaries, and their families and friends. committee.
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Page 8
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Local Author Launches First Book Easter The Bunny Just In Time
Center Place Will Hold Its 35th Annual Patron Party This April
Easter is just She hopes that chilaround the corner, and a dren will be motivated to colorful book about egglearn more about the hunting rabbits is just world, such as Easter the way to enrich the Island, through the story’s holiday for your kids. setting. “It’s an interesting This year, take a gander place, geographically. at Easter The Bunny, a Children can learn more children’s book written about the island and learn by local author Joni about the Rapa Nui culArlan. ture and celebrations and This delightful little things they have there. tale shares the fictional beginnings of Easter’s egg-hunting tradition at Easter Island. Easter, a bunny named after the Joni Arlan shares the wonderful tale of Easter The Bunny and island she was born on, plans to share more of Easter’s hops around cheerfully fun adventures through future with her brothers and sisbooks. ters while playing hide-and-seek until she Hopefully it’ll finds something strange—a chicken egg. spur an interest in Excited by her discovery, Easter decides geography.” Moreover, she wants her to share the joy of finding eggs with her readers to know that life is fun. siblings. But the joy of this story is best Arlan also wrote the book to give betfound through its vibrant pages and cute ter representation of strong women charartwork and story. acters since children’s books seem to The book was inspired by Arlan’s mostly have male protagonists, and she research into the Easter Bunny and does this through the titular Easter. Easter Island as well as by her youngest Arlan plans on making a series of granddaughter, who had passed away at Easter The Bunny books. She has the young age of 3 and a half. Despite already written the second one, Easter this tragedy, the joy her granddaughter and the Magical Bubbles, with illustration expressed and the photo of her Arlan car- still needing to be finished, and ideas are ries—featuring her granddaughter sitting forming for her third book. happily beside a big stuffed rabbit—is Make sure to search for Easter The what sprung forth the idea of this book, Bunny, written by Joni Arlan, at Amazon, and so Arlan is bringing joy to her readers Barnes & Noble, her booth at T Marie’s and showing them Easter Island through Valrico Sunday Market starting on March her story. 3 and other places where books are sold.
Center Place will have generations hold its 35th Annual of families attendPatron Party- Paint ing our art classes The Town-Passport and children’s live To The Arts- on theatre.” Saturday, April 27 All of this beginning at 7 p.m. at would not be posCenter Place in sible without the Brandon. This will be generous support fun evening that supof the comports the arts locally. munity. You Come support Lisa Rodriguez, can help susCenter Place Marketing Manager tain Center and help it confor Center Place said, tinue to provide Place and its program“Each year, the theme arts four decades ming for the community by attending their of our party changes of service to the 35th Annual Patron Party. Your cruise to paradise awaits! to make it a special community by evening for those who support the arts. becoming an Art Patron Member or, even This year, our venue will be transformed better, by becoming a sponsor. into a cruise ship theme (Passport to the Rodriguez explained, “As a Patron Arts). We will stop at different tropical Member or sponsor, you will receive disports, making it A Night In Paradise for counts on art classes and theatre proour guests.” Rodriguez added, “Your itinductions.” erary for the night will include dinner from So, put on your best cruise attire the galley, tropical drinks, entertainment (from shorts and sandals to ball gowns and our spectacular silent auction for and tuxedoes) and enjoy an evening your shopping pleasure. Enjoy a filled with fun. In addition to a delicious Captain’s Dinner with onboard seating for meal, tropical drinks and entertainment, all, complete with open bar, cruisin’ style you can partake in Center Place’s music and entertainment.” famous silent auction. Rodriguez said, This is Center Place’s biggest annual “Our auction committee works yearfundraiser. Center Place has been proround getting wonderful items donated moting and teaching arts in the Greater such as beautiful art, gift baskets, sports Brandon area for 42 years. Rodriguez items and gift cards from restaurants and said, “Our Art Center depends on the other local businesses.” generosity of our community in order to For more information and to get tickkeep our doors open with a variety of art ets to the 35th Annual Patron Party, programs for children and adults. Our 42 please visit years of promoting and teaching the arts www.centerplacebrandon.org/specialin our community speaks for itself. We events.aspx or call 685-8888.
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Page 9
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Newsome Athletic Boosters Invite Community To Casino Night
By Kate Quesada
The Newsome forms, trainer supHigh School plies, food stipends Athletic Boosters for regional and are planning a state tournaments good time for a and a new board good cause this for the track stadimonth. Tickets are um,” said Morgan. still available for Last year, the the group’s second event had approxiannual Casino mately 200 attenNight to raise dees and raised funds for the more than school’s 23 sports teams and the $10,000. hundreds of athletes that particiNewsome pate in them. Athletic According to Casino Night Booster Club Coordinator Christi Morgan, the is a nonprofit event, which is open to anyone organization 21 years of age or older, will dedicated to involve games, food and drink providing supfor the cost of a ticket. The Newsome High School Athletic port to the ath“We will have blackjack, letes and Boosters are hosting a Casino Night on Friday, April 12 to raise coaches in all craps, roulette and Texas hold money for the school’s sports ‘em,” said Morgan. “The ticket sports at teams. price includes catered dinner, dessert, Newsome High School. Memberships two drink tickets and $1,000 in casino and business sponsorships are also availcash.” able. The event will also feature additional Casino Night will be held on Friday, entertainment including a silent auction April 12 from 7-11 p.m. at the Barnwell with a basket provided by each sports Barn, located at 155 Old Welcome Rd. in team, a 50/50 raffle, a pull tab game with Lithia. Ticket prices are $30 if purchased the chance to win $300 and smaller before Wednesday, April 10; on Thursday prizes given out through the night. and Friday, April 11 and 12, the price Funds raised at the event will go to goes up to $40. Tickets, including raffle pay for wish list items presented by the and drink specials and table sponsors, high school’s sports teams. can be purchased at “Some of the wish list items include www.nhsbooster.com by clicking the tournament fees, HUDL accounts featurCasino Night link at the top of the page. ing iPads the coaches use to record For more information, contact Morgan at games and for training purposes, uniChristi_morgan@verizon.net.
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Page 10
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Chris Edwards Is Named Volunteer Of The Year From The Campo Family YMCA
By Kathy L. Collins
Each year, staff while he is in the buildthe Tampa ing. Even though he only Metropolitan Area volunteers on Mondays, he YMCA hosts a makes sure everyone he Community touches starts off the week Impact Dinner. At on the right foot. He is this dinner, volunalways smiling and you can teers from area tell he is genuinely happy to YMCAs are recbe here. He is the kind of ognized as well person that makes the as local residents Campo Y such a special who are dedicatplace in our community.” ed to the commuEdwards said of the nity and have a recognition, “I like to meet positive impact and greet all the people, Chris Edwards is the 2019 on Tampa Bay. members and staff. I like to Volunteer of the Year from the This year, Campo Family YMCA. Edwards has please people and make been volunteering with the Y for six them feel happy. Their smilU.S. years and is always eager to greet Representative ing faces feel like sunshine.” members and visitors alike. Kathy Castor Jarrod explained why it received the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA’s is important to recognize volunteers. 2019 Community Impact Award on “Whether it is the Board of Advisor volunMonday, March 4. Previous Impact teers, youth sports coaches or a friendly Award winners include Jeff and Penny smile greeting you at the door, our volunVinik, Richard Gonzmart and Tampa teers are the foundation on which the Y Mayor Bob Buckhorn. was built. They sacrifice time, talent and Area YMCA facilities each select a treasure because they believe in our misvolunteer to be recognized. The sion,” said Jarrod. Volunteer of the Year for 2019 from the The Campo Family YMCA is located Campo Family YMCA is Chris Edwards, at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. This who volunteers on the Wellness Floor branch of the Y offers a multitude of and on the Aquatics Deck. Edwards activities for both young and old. Jarrod greets members and cleans during slow said, “The Campo Family YMCA is more times. than a gym and a place to swim. We are Edwards has been with Campo a place where youth, adults, families and Family YMCA for six years. According to seniors can come together to stay active, Jarrod Williams, Center Executive socialize, meet their health and wellness Director for the Campo Family YMCA, goals and really reach their full potential.” “We nominated Chris because of the For more information, please call sheer joy he brings to the members and 684-1371.
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Page 11
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Pepin Academies Celebrates 20th Anniversary And A Bright Future
By Taylor Wells
On March 2 at suggesting it will be one TPepin’s Hospitality of our best galas ever, Centre, Pepin but we really don’t have Academies—a puball the numbers calculic, independent, lated yet to know the 501(c)(3), not-forexact numbers.” profit, tuition-free The school has charter school congrown immensely since sisting of three camits start in 1999, having puses—held a gala around 25 students in a with a silent auction Pepin Distributing Company President single schoolhouse in celebration of its and CEO Tom Pepin, Tampa campus only for high school. Principal Monika Perez, Riverview 20th anniversary, Now, Pepin has three campus Principal Geri Henry, New and all those years Port Richey campus Principal Celeste larger sites with over have been in support Keller and Executive Director Dr. Jeff 1,100 students collecSkowronek at the 20th anniversary of students with tively for 3rd through gala. learning and learn12th grade with a transiing-related disabilition program for stuties. The funds dents up to age 22. raised, thanks to “Pepin Academies many sponsors like is the only public charter SRD Engineers, will school of its kind…A lot greatly help its misof our students are sion. gonna go on to col“Twenty years leges, technical schools, ago, Pepin military; some of the Academies was creother schools in the ated because of the community may appear Hunter Frost, a graduate of Pepin lack of an educationto look like a similar Academies, speaking at its 20th anniversary gala. al foundation for chilpopulation, but they dren with disabilities don’t have the diploma in our community,” options that we have,” said Tom Pepin, said FTE Coordinator Cofounder of Pepin M’Liss Ferlita. “We have Academies and a program that is like no Chairman Emeritus other that’s available in of the Pepin the community.” Academies As such, Pepin’s Foundation. “We mission is of great would not be where importance, and we are today without Pepin Distributing Company President through events like the and CEO Tom Pepin, Florida the enormous supgala it can go farther for Representative Jackie Toledo and port and passion Pepin Academies Foundation Board its students. from our community Although there are Chair Natalie King at the 20th anniversary gala. partners like SRD no plans yet, it is open Engineers. It amazes me every day to to starting additional campuses to reach see how far we’ve come and what the more students who might struggle in typifuture holds.” cal school environments. “Not in the Pepin Academies will be dividing the immediate future, but I think as we funds equally towards its campuses in enhance what we already have in place, Riverview and Tampa in Hillsborough there’s always that mindset of looking to County and New Port Richey in Pasco where else we can help students that County. The funds will allow improvecould use a program like ours,” said Geri ments such as expanding its Pepin Henry, Principal of the Riverview camTransitional program for more workplace pus.Pepin Academies’ campuses are opportunities, purchasing new technology, located in Riverview at 9304 Camden classrooms trying new initiatives and Field Pkwy., Tampa at 3916 E. improving curriculums. Hillsborough Ave. and New Port Richey at “We had quite a few sponsors donat9804 Little Rd. ing anywhere from five to 10 to even 25 For info, visit pepinacademies.com or thousand dollars,” said Dr. Jeff call 533-2999 (Riverview), 236-1755 Skowronek, Executive Director of the (Tampa) or 727-233-2961 (New Port Hillsborough campuses. “Projections are Richey) locations.
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Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Page 14
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale Hosts Bingo For Chorus To Fund New Sounds System
River Hills Hosts Community Chili Cook-Off, Announces Winners
The Doors will Bloomingdale open for the High School Bingo Night at 6 Chorus has a p.m. on Friday, fun night April 12 with the planned for the games starting community next at 6:30 p.m. month. The Game group’s Boosters cards are are helping to available host a Bingo for purThe Bloomingdale High School Chorus Night in the chase at Boosters are hosting a Bingo Night in the school’s cafete- school’s cafeteria on Friday, April 12 to raise funds the event and for a new sound system. ria on Friday, each attendee April 12 to raise funds for the program, will receive a free dopper with a card purespecially a much needed new portable chase. The winner of each game will sound system. have the choice of multiple prize baskets Approximately 180 students particidonated by local businesses, and addipate in the five choirs that make up the tional baskets will be raffled off at the school’s chorus program. According to event. Concessions food, including chips, Booster Board President Wendy Soto, candy, hot dogs and drinks, will be availmoney raised at the event will support the able for purchase. students with music and transportation to “We really want to have an event the multiple community performances, entire community can participate in,” said accompaniment and uniform accessories, Soto. “Bingo is fun for the whole family, in addition to the new equipment. from kids to retirees.” “This is a group of very talented stuThe Booster board, an official dents who deserve a new sound system 501(c)(3) non-profit, is currently accepting to enhance the quality of their performdonations for the raffle from local busiances and allow them to perform to the nesses and anyone wanting to help. best of their abilities,” said Soto, who “This group not only produces talentexplains that the Boosters purchase anyed singers, but also gives students lifething above and beyond the basics for long friends and skills they will use the group. throughout their lives,” said Gaertner. “The new system also includes two Bloomingdale High School is located speakers that point to the stage to help at 1700 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For the students hear themselves which more information on the event or to allows them to improve their singing,” donate to the raffle, visit www.bloomingadded Shannon Gaertner, the group’s dalechorus.com or email bshschorussecretary and uniform chair. boosters@gmail.com.
River Hills resiwent to John Tesmer dents recently found with his “Big John’s Ol a delicious way to Red Chili,” Barbel Lebel spend time together won in the People’s as a community. Choice category with Last month, the golf “German Chili” and the course subdivision Grand Champion was located in Valrico the Hookness family with held its first Chili their “Pepperhead Chili.” Cook-Off attended In addition to the The Grand Champion winners were chili tasting for attenby more than 200 the Hookness family with their residents. dees, the Junior ROTC “Pepperhead Chili.” “After a few from Newsome High months of planning, School volunteered to several committee coordinate and run all of meetings and even the children’s activities, more volunteers, including cornhole, stickresidents of all ages er art, pin-the-tail-on-thegathered on the donkey and more. back patio of the “Families and their River Hills Country children seemed to enjoy Club for this hot the festivities from beginevent on what ning to end,” said Rule. seemed like the hottest day of the year,” Hot dogs and beverages were availsaid River Hills Social Team Co able for purchase and the River Hills HOA Chairperson Julie Rule. provided complimentary fresh seasonal The 12 chili entries were judged by Strawberry Shortcake for dessert. five long-time River Hills residents and “The event showcased what we are winners were chosen in four categories: striving for on the Social Team; adults, Spiciest, Most Original, People’s Choice children, fun and community building, all and Grand Champion. the things we want when we think of “The Grand Champion was awarded home,” said River Hills resident and the coveted green apron, and all four of Cook-Off Event Chair Andrea Heeps. the winners received an embossed spoon The Cook-Off was the first of many with their winning category,” said Rule. events the River Hills Social Team will be “Each of them has definitely earned brag- planning for residents this year. Anyone ging rights.” interested in volunteering for an upcomThe winner in the Spiciest category ing event or for more information about was the Kile family with their “Hotter Than the Social Team should email Yo Mama” chili, the Most Original Award RiverHillsSocialTeam123@gmail.com.
By Kate Quesada
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Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Newsome High School Theatre Dept. Presents A Play On Words
Staff Report
The Olive Newsome Ostrovsky, the High School tentative newTheatre comer. Department Mackenzie presents The Valentine is 25th Annual Ms. Rona List Putnam Peretti, Ian County NegronSpelling Bee Rodrigues on Thursday plays Vice Photo courtesy of James Goad Principal to Saturday, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will be Douglas April 25-27 presented on Thursday to Saturday, April 25-27 at 7 at 7 p.m. as Panch and p.m. as well as a matinee on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Newsome High School. well as a Benjamin matinee on Saturday at 2 p.m. This Sutherland is comfort-counselor Mitch show is literally a musical play on Mahoney. words. The production is directed and choConceived by Rebecca Feldman reographed by Newsome’s theatre and written by William Finn, Jay Rice teacher, Dr. Chad Cornwell. Jeffrey and Rachel Sheinkin, Spelling Bee feaBogue, Newsome’s chorus director, tures an eclectic group of six midserves as the music director. The propubescents vying for the spelling cham- duction team includes students Paola pionship of a lifetime. While candidly Negron-Rodriguez as the assistant disclosing hilarious and touching stories director, Sydney DeFelix as technical from their home lives, the tweens spell director and stage managers James their way through a series of (potentially Goad, Amber Johnson, and Valerie made-up) words, hoping never to hear Borland. The technical crew is entirely the soul-crushing, pout-inducing, life un- student-run working lights and sound, affirming ‘ding’ of the bell that signals a set, props, costumes, hair and spelling mistake. Six spellers enter; one makeup. speller leaves. At least the losers get a Cornwell commented, “Newsome juice box. Newsome’s take on this theatre is a developing educational theTony Award-winning musical includes a atre program, so having our students chorus of spellers’ families in the auditechnically produce and perform in ence. each production is the cornerstone of The cast features Tyler Mann as all that we do.” Chip, a Boy Scout and all-star pitcher It will take place in the Newsome with a 22-mile per hour fast ball. Maria High School Theater, located at 16550 Moleiro plays Schwarzy (Logaine Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. Discount tickSchwartzandgrunenierre), the youngest ets, $8 for adults and $5 for students, and most politically aware contestant. are available at Luke Patten is Leaf Coneybear, the www.newsometheatre.ticketleap.com. somewhat wide-eyed offspring of hipTickets may be available at the door for pie-ish parents; Michael Thanasides $10 each. portrays Willam Barfee, an allergyDoors open at 6:30 p.m. nightly plagued overachiever with a unique and at 1:30 p.m. for the Saturday matiapproach to spelling in the bee. The nee. For more information, visit spellers are rounded out with Alex www.newsometheatre.com or email Hickey as the overachiever, Marcy chad.cornwell@sdhc.k12.fl.us. Park, and Samantha Lewis playing
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April 2019
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 17
Enjoy Cajun Style Seafood Dinners At The 9th Annual Crawfish Festival
New Affordable Garden-Style Apartments Coming To Brandon Area
The Rotary haps an obstacle Club of course. FishHawkPreorder Riverview is food tickets on proud to present the Crawfish the Ninth Annual Festival’s website Crawfish Festival. until Thursday, Come to the festiApril 25 by 2 p.m. val to enjoy fun A single crawfish times and all the dinner ticket is Cajun seafood You can enjoy lots of delicious Cajun crawfish $20 and includes and good times at the Ninth Annual Crawfish you can eat. This two pounds of Festival on Saturday, April 27. is an event you crawfish, corn do not want to miss. and potatoes. There is also “This year is going to the family pack ticket, be bigger and better,” said which is $50 and includes Rhonda McDaniel, the two crawfish meals, two organizer of the event. “We hot dogs or hamburgers, will have more vendors two sodas and two beers. with unique and original You can also preorder items and designs. We Crawfish Festival T-shirts. have new sponsorships this year, like It is $15 for small, medium, large and XL Ferman Mazda and Passion Organic T-shirts and $18 for 2XL and 3XL T-shirts. Farm, but last and not least, our title Admission into the festival and for sponsor, Christopher Ligori & Associates, children’s activities, raffles and entertainAttorneys at Law, presents the Ninth ment is free. Annual Crawfish Festival.” All proceeds made through the festiNew vendors at the event this year val will benefit sponsorship programs as include Gaia Donut with gluten, allergy, well as charities such as Rotary’s Camp dairy and nut-free donuts; Baby Bling Florida, the Head Start program, ECHO Bows with bling shirts, bags, skirts and (Emergency Care Help Organization), A more; Billy’s Original Grillscarf; RAZKid’s Place and CART (Coins for ZLEDAZZLE Barbershop; Moonshine Alzheimer’s Research Trust). Sunglasses; Everlasting Gifts Inc. with The Ninth Annual Crawfish Festival kitchen towels, ponchos and blankets; will be held from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on and Mainstream Boutique. These are just Saturday, April 27, rain or shine, at some of the vendors. Founders Square Park at Winthrop Town There will also be other activities for Centre, located at 11109 Winthrop Market all ages, such as music by Otis and the St. in Riverview. Visit https://www.luvcrawOld School Band, face painting and perfish.com/.
“We are very active in state and local housing coalitions as well,” Wilson said. “Blue Sky Communities is a developer of multifamily affordable housing using the Federal Housing Sabal Parking in Brandon will soon be home to a new affordable, gar- Credits proden-style apartment community. Blue Sky Communities broke ground gram. Blue on the Preserve at Sabal Park this past February. Sky is also a Sabal Park in Brandon will soon be home to a new affordable, garden-style apartment community. Blue Sky Communities broke ground on the Preserve at Sabal Park in February. The Preserve will be a sixleading advocate for helping nonprofbuilding, three-story, garden-style it groups reach their affordable houshousing community consisting of 48 ing goals by developing state-of-theone-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and art, environmentally sound, afford24 three-bedroom units totaling able housing units.” Through partnerapproximately 138,912 sq. ft. All ships, Blue Sky helps these groups apartments will be equipped with a by developing neighborhood assets kitchen, bathroom(s), and storage that stakeholders can be proud of for closets. Amenities include a commudecades. “To date, Blue Sky has nity building, playground, pool and developed over 1,000 units of affordfree parking. able housing units,” Wilson said. “The Sabal Park location has “Additionally, we have over 550 more been awarded nine percent Lowunits in the pipeline for 2018-2019. Income Housing Tax Credits,” said These communities include housing Blue Sky Communities’ President, for the homeless and disabled Shawn Wilson. “It will use the proVeterans. Blue Sky’s principles have ceeds of the sale of these credits, lived in Florida for more than 50 estimated at $20M, as the primary years. Blue Sky understands the source of funding for its developimportance of development funding ment.” In addition, a Bank Loan of being spent locally for the benefit of $5M from Citi Community Capital of local businesses and residents.” $112K finances the development Blue Sky will provide brand-new from Hillsborough County, $439K apartment homes with all modern from the Hillsborough HFA and conveniences as well as a large club$1.25M from Florida Housing house and pool for less than $500 for Finance Corporation. some units; although, most units will Shawn Wilson and James be in the $800 range. This ensures Chadwick formed Blue Sky that families have adequate disposCommunities in 2012. Since its forable income to save or to spend at mation, it has been awarded funding local establishments.” from Florida Housing Finance Visit Corporation for 14 developments. www.blueskycommunities.com.
By Taylor Wells
4/30/19
4/30/19
LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED
By Libby Hopkins
Page 18
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Your Questions Answered About Local Weather Patterns
By Granville Kinsman
Q: Is there a rainy season and dry season in central Florida?
A: Yes, rainfall is seasonal. Our rainy season is a four-month period from June through September, with average rainfall of about 7.8 inches each month. About 60 percent of our average annual Granville Kinsman, Hydrologic Data rainfall is received Manager, Southwest Florida Water during that time. Management District, is a professional The higher rainfall geologist and has been manager of the Hydrologic Data Section for 30 years. He results in rising is a subject matter expert for hydrologic water levels in conditions monitoring and reporting, and wells, lakes, rivers coordinates and manages the District’s data collection programs with the United and springs. Our States Geological Survey (USGS).
average of 53 inches. December was the third wettest in 103 years of record! Districtwide, rainfall was about 7.5 inches higher than average.
Q: What is the role of El Niño in our weather?
A: El Niño is a weather pattern related to the warming of waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean and it has global impacts on weather. In Florida, El Niño normally results in a wetter-than-normal winter and spring. That means during El Niño episodes, our water resources typically increase.
Q: Are the regional water resources healthy?
A: Yes. The aboveaverage rainfall in 2018 follows strong rainfall events over the past two years that have elevated groundwater and surface water levels throughout our District. Water This past winter, El Niño developed and influenced the weather resources are across the United States. El Niño is associated with warmer than normal water temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific Ocean. Weak El healthy and public supplies Nino conditions are expected to remain through the spring. are full. dry season is an eight-month period Q: What is the forecast for the next from October through May. During the several months? dry season, our average rainfall is A: The National Oceanic and around 3 inches per month. Water levAtmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) els typically decline in wells, lakes, Climate Prediction Center has been rivers and springs during these eight monitoring a developing El Niño months. event for the past six months. The Q: Was 2018 wetter than normal? waters of the Pacific are warm, but the atmospheric effects have not been A: Yes, 2018 was considered a completely enhanced as wet year in west-central Florida. expected. Current forecasts indicate Rainfall was highest in the northern above-normal rainfall through May, counties and lowest in the southern when we expect to transition to our counties of our District, but all areas rainy season. saw rainfall above the long-term yearly
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Volume 18, Issue 4
Bell Shoals Baptist Church Living Out Its Mission While In Transition
By Amanda Boston
As Bell Shoals This September Baptist Church from 19-21, Bell Shoals searches for a new will host ‘Welcome senior pastor, the Home Initiative,’ a church continues to three-day conference carry out its mission for veterans suffering to "follow Jesus, love from PTSD. The propeople, and make gram is designed to disciples." This year make veterans feel Bell Shoals has sev‘welcomed home’ in eral significant every sense and conevents on its calensists of talks and dar along with its resources for coping ongoing ministries. The student ministry at Bell On Friday, April Shoals Baptist Church recently 26 at 6:30 p.m., Bell collected food for its Real Hope Shoals presents House. The pantry distributes food every Wednesday from 12 ‘Come to the Table,’ Noon to 2 p.m. a women’s gathering where 400 women will share a meal, their and hearts and experience the love of God. recovery. The event will be held on the Brandon Further detail on the proCampus and costs $10 per person. gram can be obtained at www.welcomeThis May and June will provide homeinitiative.org. opportunities for missional living as Bell On Friday, October 11, ‘The Freedom Shoals leaves behind the building and Tour,’ a women’s event featuring engages in the community. Join Bell author/speaker Jennie Allen and worship Shoals on Saturday, May 4 to participate leader Christy Nockels will be held on the in ‘Church has Left the Building,’ and Brandon Campus. The gathering’s theme spend the day doing service projects centers on the freedom we have in Jesus throughout the Greater Brandon area. Christ and includes a time of Bible teachThen over the weekend of June 1 and 2, ing and praise and worship. Bell Shoals will reach out with acts of In addition to these signature events, kindness to its neighbors through the Bell Shoals is continuing to serve its com‘Bless Every Home’ event. munities in a variety of ways through its “Some people might just think we’re ESL classes, classes to improve marsitting still while waiting for our next senior riages, finances, and parenting and our pastor,” said Gary Payne, executive pasEncouraging Sports program. Visit tor at Bell Shoals. “Nothing could be furwww.bellshoals.com to learn more. ther from the truth.”
April 2019
Page 19
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Memorial Mass Held For Longtime Nativity Pastor Msgr. Lara
By Amanda Boston
For three Lara. Within four decades, Monsignor months of his retireJames ‘Jaime’ ment, Msgr. Lara Carreras Lara served was asked to temas pastor of Nativity porarily assume the Catholic Church. In role of Administrator February, Msgr. Lara of St. Brendan passed away from a Parish in sudden heart attack Clearwater. In 2014, while in the hospital Msgr. Lara returned near his home in to Spain to live closSpain. Nativity Catholic er to his siblings, Church held a and he remained Memorial Mass on there until his death. February 23 to celeRev. Tapp conbrate his life. tinued, “While Msgr. In 1957, Msgr. Lara built buildings Nativity Catholic Church mourns the Lara was ordained for and set up this city the Diocese of Toledo, passing of Msgr. James Carreras Lara. set on a hill, he Spain. Two years later, above and beyond he was sent as a misall else, attempted to sionary priest to the be a beacon of hope Diocese of St. to so many who othAugustine. Then, in erwise might feel 1969, Msgr. Lara transferred to the newly- helpless. In the five years I have been established Diocese of St. Petersburg. He here, I have heard incessant stories faithfully served as the pastor of Nativity about how Msgr. Lara reached out to indiCatholic Church until retiring in 1999. viduals to help them in their need, to comDuring those 30 years, the parish experifort them in their sorrow, to encourage enced tremendous growth. them in their vocations, and, yes, to even Reverend John Tapp, the current give them a kick in the pants when they pastor of Nativity Catholic Church, said, needed someone to push them when “Msgr. Lara pastored Nativity Parish in a they just felt they couldn’t go any further.” time of unparalleled growth. He took this Although Msgr. Lara has moved on small mission community and built up a from this world, the profound impact he church, school and parish to the vibrant had at Nativity is still felt by its parishcommunity which it is today.” ioners. Nativity Catholic Church is located In August 1999, at the request of at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. For Bishop Robert Lynch, Pope St. John Paul more information on the church, visit II bestowed the title of Monsignor upon www.nativitycatholicchurch.org.
Non-Surgical Shoulder Recovery The shoulder joint is one of the more complicated joints of the body. It consists of the humeral head, which sits on the glenoid fossa, much like a golf ball on a tee. This gives the shoulder its range of motion, but in turn, it can be very unstable. To combat this, the shoulder has 17 muscles that insert into it. These muscles and ligaments, when properly utilized, allow for smooth, controlled movements without any pain. Unfortunately, when shoulder muscles are not working properly one starts to experience pain.
Shoulder Pain The most common causes of shoulder pain is from overuse, repetitive movements or poor posture (i.e., mechanical in nature). These can lead to pain in the shoulder girdle, upper arm, lower arm and even down to the hand. Shoulder pain is often described as achy, dull, sharp, numb and/or tingling and varies in intensity. The pain can range anywhere from minimal to debilitating. This is because the nerves that innervate the arm originate from your neck before coming together to make up the brachial plexus, a network of nerves in your shoulder area. These nerves then continue all the way down your arm to your fingers. The shoulder is a very complicated joint and that is why it is so important to have a proper assessment. At Motion ChiroTherapy, you will be given a thorough medical history and physical examination to make sure you receive proper diagnosis and treatment. The good news is that most of the shoulder pain patients at Motion ChiroTherapy get better quickly with conservative care (without drugs, injections, surgery) in a few weeks or months (for severe cases). Dr. Lutz utilizes a patient-centered approach, which incorporates his extensive training in chiropractic, rehabilitation and sports performance to quickly decrease shoulder pain, without the use of drugs or surgery.
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Page 20
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 4
Impact’s Got Talent Show & Program Offers Great Opportunities For Teens
By Amanda Boston
Mark your callifestyle choices. endar for Friday, Kagey continApril 12 for the fifth ued, “Last year, our annual Impact’s Summer Staff proGot Talent. gram reached over Impact’s fundraiser, 750 students and based off the 28 site locations in NBC’s television Hillsborough and show America’s Polk County over Got Talent, showthe summer at area cases singers, Boys & Girls Clubs, Pictured is last year’s grand prize winner dancers and musiYMCA's, Parks & Jennifer Manangan, a 9th grader at Wharton high school. cians and more. Recreation Centers The festivities will be held at and other community organizations.” Bloomingdale High School and will kick Impact lives up to its name as Nick off at 6:30 p.m. as students of all Lazaro, a senior at Newsome ages take the stage to vie for the High school explained, “Impact $250 grand prize. Additionally, has helped me personally first and second place trophies because it allowed me to will be awarded in each categobecome more confident in my ry. The event will also hold a ability to speak in public. 50/50 raffle along with its highly-anticipatThrough my time in the program, ed silent auction. I made lasting friendships and will never Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are forget my time being an Impact summer $10 per person and can be purchased staffer.” online at Eventbrite or at the door. All tickImpact receives its funding from the et sales benefit the Impact program. Community Foundation of Tampa Bay, Angie Kagey, the founder and execu- local pregnancy centers, individuals, tive director of the nonprofit explained its churches, businesses and fundraising mission, "Impact educates and empowers events. On Thursday, October 3, Impact teens to make healthy choices by avoidwill hold its annual Celebration Dinner at ing high-risk behavior." The Regent in Riverview. The nonprofit tackles tough subjects For more information on Impact, like drugs, alcohol and sex through clubs, visit www.whatisimpact.com or its classrooms, its Summer Staff program, Facebook page @whatisimpact. For furcamps and more. Impact’s Summer Staff ther questions or to become an event is eight-week program, where a group of sponsor, contact Angie Kagey at selected students perform comedic skits akagey@whatisimpact.com or 264-9368. that touch on powerful subjects and Bloomingdale High School is located at encourage abstinence and healthy 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico.
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April 2019
Page 21
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Bay Life Church Celebrates 25 Years Of Community Service On Sunday, March 3, Bay Life Church of Brandon celebrated 25 years with a unified service and anniversary picnic. A total of 1,546 people were in attendance, and the service featured worship pastors from both past and present for a time of worship and teaching from Pastor Mark Saunders. Leading up to the event, Bay Life’s Facebook page was seasoned with posts featuring personal stories of how lives had been changed at Bay Life. “Celebrating 25 years as a church was special in ways I hadn’t expected,” said Pastor Mark Saunders. “Sure, there were the stories of ‘humble beginnings’ and ‘grassroots growth,’ but I was marked most by the significant changes that occurred in individual cases. Over and over again in the days leading up to our celebration, people posted on social media their personal stories of how God had used His church called Bay Life to alter the course of their lives forever.” Pastor Saunders stressed that Bay Life Church is not a building or location, but the church is its people. At Bay Life, this family of followers, who affectionately call themselves Lifers, seek to love, serve and share Jesus Christ. Speaking about Bay Life’s impact, Pastor Saunders said, “Marriages were saved, addictions were overcome, minds were renewed, all by the power of Jesus
By Amanda Boston
and the love of His saints.” He continued, “I am grateful that God has used us over our first 25 years to draw so many into faith. As we look to our future, I pray for more— more life change, more church campuses, more people responding to and then sharing the good news.” In addition to the support rendered within the body of believers through its life groups, children and youth ministry, counseling and such, Bay Life also makes an impact on both its surrounding community and abroad. From local missions like Feed the Bay, which originated at Bay Life, to global missions in Uganda and Africa, the church seeks to help those in need while spreading the good news. Stephen Stough, communications director at Bay Life, added, “A few of the things I loved was that my sons, now 19 and 13, could hear about the faithfulness of God to His people and be here to witness firsthand how God moves in His time and for His purposes for His glory.” The programs mentioned above and missions are only a sampling of the areas where Bay Life serves. An indepth list and more information can be found at www.baylife.org. Service times are Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 9 and 10:45 a.m. Bay Life is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon.
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Page 22
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
River Hills Resident Named Armed Forces Insurance Marine Corps Spouse Of The Year®
By Brian O’Malley
After 1,200 nation“My family means the wide nominations and a world to me and being national vote yielding involved in their lives is more than 86,000 votes, incredibly important. Our River Hills resident Holly love only grows stronger Vega has been named as we move and grow in the 2019 Armed Forces different locations,” said Insurance Marine Corps Vega. “It has also helped Spouse of the Year®. us gain a greater appreciaVega is currently station and love for all of the tioned with her husmilitary band, Javier Vega, families Lieutenant Colonel, we have River Hills resident Holly attached to MARCENT. Vega was recently named met 2019 Armed Forces Now in its 12th year along the Insurance Marine Corps honoring the dedication way, and Spouse of the Year®. and sacrifices of our I look fornation’s more than 1.1 million military ward to connecting with other like-minded spouses, Armed Forces Insurance is spouses through this award program. I proud to recognize military spouses from hope to encourage mentorship across the all six branches of the Armed Forces board and empower spouses to be who making a difference in their communities. they are and recognize how their unique Vega has served the military in and individual gifts are all important to our numerous volunteer capacities to include military community.” family readiness volunteer coordinator, As a branch winner, Vega is now a liaison for international spouses and step closer to being named the overall L.I.N.K.S. mentor with Marine Corps 2019 Armed Forces Insurance Military Family Team Building. She is most Spouse of the Year® (MSOY). Through a known for her work with children. Having combination of popular vote and judging three of her own, Vega has eagerly volun- panels, the nominees have been whittled teered as a Girl Scout Troop Leader, PTO down to base winners and then six chairperson, school military children’s club branch winners. After the final vote conco-leader and DODEA school board ducted on March 7-8, the overall winner member. Spending time with her family will be announced at an awards dinner on and being a role model for family values Thursday, May 9 at Fort Meyer in is what makes her heart happy. Speaking Arlington, VA in conjunction with National of hearts, Vega is also a healthy heart Military Spouse Appreciation Day, which advocate and co-leader for Military Hearts occurs on Friday, May 10. Matter through the American Heart To learn more, please visit Association (AHA). www.msoy.afi.org.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 23
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 4
See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 April 2019
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk
www.ospreyobserver.com
2019 SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In And Expo - First In Fun - Fast In Flight From sunrise to long into the evening hours, there are infinite experiences to be had at the SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In and Expo, which takes place from Tuesday, April 2 to Sunday, April 7. In addition to the daily airshows, one can spend time perusing 200+ acres of new aviation products and services from manufacturers like Watch the US Navy Blue Angels perform at Cirrus, BOSE and Lincoln the SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In on Saturday and Sunday, April 6 and 7. Electric as well as distributors like Gulf Coast Avionics. There are PartsMart, Ladies Pavilion, Kid Zone, Drone Zone and more. Each evening, the fun continues. You can cuddle up with your honey, enjoy some popcorn and watch an aviation-based movie in the campground among friends. For more action, check out the Corn Roast with nightly music The F-35 Lightning II will be on static display at entertainment. Let’s not for#SNF19. This is not the demo team, but you will be get the 300+ forums on all able to see the fighter on static display Friday through Sunday provided these operational aircraft are not topics aviation as well as called to duty. hands-on workshops, semiefforts have a dramatic impact on the nars, museum tours, a military swearlives of 30,000 youth. A volunteer’s ing in ceremony; the list is endless. contribution will fund a scholarship for The SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In has another high school student’s private evolved into the largest fundraising pilot’s license, another 10-year-old’s event for the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE). The rally cry of vol- summer camp experience or build an exhibit in the award-winning museum unteers donating their time, expertise preserving the legacy of aviation. The and sweat centers on knowing their
By Carol Cali
like the Phillips 66 AeroStars, GEICO Skytypers and Aeroshell perform in unison, and individual performances fill the sky with skillful feats like Patty Wagstaff, Jeff Koontz and Jeff Shetterly. Many enjoy the various flights of warbirds. SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In and Expo will take The Heritage Flight place in Lakeland from Tuesday, April 2 to Sunday, always stops the April 7. crowds in their place. This year, volunteers’ ‘how can I the Cavanaugh Flight Museum help you’ attitude makes Vietnam-era reenactment will be perthe event’s 200,000 formed for the first time, complete with guests and 500+ pyro and gun-runs. For military-lovers, exhibitors feel welcomed the Viper Demo team will be roaring and appreciated. and the US Navy Blue Angels will be Each guest receives a compleripping across the sky. mentary In-flight Guide that contains Nothing beats the night airshows everything you want to know about on Wednesday and Saturday. The the event as well as a pull-out map. The www.flysnf.org website is also Paradigm Team returns, showcasing the fun of ultralights. All-night airshow a great source of information leading performers possess special up the event. Guests are encouraged talents…but what about 60 drones? to make use of the SUN ‘n FUN The ‘Star Dance Spectacular’ debuts mobile app to schedule, find and at SUN ‘n FUN and will light the night enjoy all there is to offer throughout sky, followed by a dramatic fireworks the six-day event. The mobile app will display. also have opportunities to win prizes SUN ‘n FUN is located at 3200 throughout the week. Flightline Dr. in Lakeland. Visit The daily airshows consist of perwww.flysnf.org/sun-n-fun-intl-flyformers that push their aircraft to its expo/activities/airshow/ for more inforlimits. Aerobatics is something everymation or to purchase tickets. one loves to watch. Airshow teams
Page 26
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com
Questions Answered About Stormwater Ponds And Why We Need Them
By David Kramer, P.E.
ACURA MDX: WHAT’S NEW FOR 2019? THE A-SPEC VARIANT! Barring is 2 inchthe addies deeper tion of the and wider fuel-saving and 5 engine inches idle-stop, a longer, few minor can interior accommoalterations date a and an alllaptop. new AAnd the Spec trim second(more row seat about it later), the 2019 MDX remains can go fore and aft 6 inches so thirdas is. That’s because Acura revamped row passengers can settle in effortits three-row midsize luxury SUV a lessly. The huge underfloor bin in the couple years ago. The retained 3.5cargo hold is a smart space saver. liter V-6 still puts out 290 horsepower Passenger volume is a competitive @ 6200 rpm and 267 pounds-feet of 132.7 cubic feet. Other amenities are torque @ 4500 tri-zone auto a/c, MDX (AWD) rpm. And one power rear tailgate couldn’t have a and moon roof, 14Tires: 265/45 R20 all-season smoother nineway power driver Wheelbase: 111 inches speed gearbox. and 12-way frontLength: 196.2 inches Once again, the passenger seats Width: 77.7 inches MDX is offered in and wood/metallic Height: 67.4 inches front-wheel and trim. Suspension: MacPherson strut all-wheel drive. Standard safety front; multi-link rear Thanks to the features include Steering: Motion adaptive elec- dual front and side Integrated Dynamics airbags, side curtric power System (IDS), tain airbag, driver Fuel capacity: 19.5 gallons the driver can knee airbag, fourCity: 19 mpg choose sport, wheel antilock Highway: 25 mpg normal and combrakes, front/rear Base price: $54,800 fort settings. crumple zones, Price as tested: $56,195 Looking to save side-impact door Website: www.acura.com fuel? The beams, vehicle staVariable Cylinder bility assist with Management (VCM) system can oper- traction control, lane departure warnate in three or four cylinder modes for ing and lane-keep assist (which mainsubstantial fuel savings. Braking tains the ride in its path), blind spot duties are handled competently by the monitor, collision mitigation system, 12.6-inch ventilated front and 13-inch multi-angle rearview camera, daytime rear solid discs. running lights and tire pressure moniThanks to A-Spec, the even boldtoring system. These also include all appearing front fascia shows off the safety technology that comes with gloss-black and dark chrome trim on AcuraWatch. the jewel-eye LED headlights, grille, Boasting quick acceleration, the window surround and rear tailgate tech-savvy MDX provides well-balancspoiler. The cabin is awash in extrava- ing handling, decent fuel economy gance with red/black cooled leather (despite nearly 4,300-pound weight), seats and Alcantara inserts (also on plentiful cargo and passenger space, door), sport pedals, distinct A-Spec and a plethora of luxury accouinstrument gauges, thicker steering trements. The A-Spec trim makes the wheel, and LED fog lamps. The luxury SUV even more alluring to a supersized center console bin, which prospective buyer!
Q: What are ponds. Removal of exotstormwater ponds ic, nuisance and excess and why do we need vegetation is allowed. them? Just make sure to conA: A stormwater sult your association or pond is designed to CDD and the District collect and manage before removing any sigrunoff from rainwater. nificant amount of vegeWhen rainwater lands tation. The District recon rooftops, parking ommends selective lots, streets, drivemaintenance and ways and other hard removal by hand rather David Kramer, ERP Evaluation surfaces, the rainfall than mass removal of Manager for Southwest Florida that doesn’t soak into native wetland vegetaWater Management District, is a the ground (stormwation that becomes estabprofessional engineer and has served as the engineering manager lished in a stormwater ter runoff) flows into of the Environmental Resource your neighborhood pond. The District does Permit (ERP) Evaluation Section stormwater pond not recommend cutting, since 2006. through grates, pipes, shallow swales or mowing, using herbicides or introducing ditches. Stormwater ponds are required grass carp to remove native vegetation. for most new development (since the Use only herbicides labeled for aquatic 1980s) and are specifically designed to use, otherwise it may harm fish and other help prevent flooding and remove polluaquatic life, and it is prohibited by state tants from the water. Without these and federal law. ponds, stormwater would carry pollutants Q: Is it OK to use stormwater ponds like litter, motor oil, gasoline, fertilizers, for recreational purposes such as fishing, pesticides, pet wastes, sediments and swimming or kayaking? anything else that can float into nearby streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, estuaries or the Gulf of Mexico. Q: Who is responsible for maintenance of stormwater ponds in my neighborhood? A: Recreational use of stormwater A: Once the developer has completponds is potentially hazardous to your ed construction of the roads and drainage health and is not recommended. system in a neighborhood, the property Stormwater ponds are designed to capowner’s association (or in some cases, a ture and retain stormwater runoff, which community development district (CDD)) is may contain many different types of poltypically responsible for maintaining the lution, including sediments, oils, greasneighborhood drainage system, including es, trash, nutrients, heavy metals, pestithe stormwater ponds. cides, herbicides and pathogens. Q: Can I remove vegetation from my Q: What can residents do to help stormwater pond? prevent pollution and flooding in A: Many stormwater ponds are stormwater ponds? designed and required to include native A: Never fill or obstruct stormwater aquatic vegetation. Native vegetation will ponds, swales and retention systems, filter polluted runoff, trap sediments, conas that will potentially keep the trol the growth of nuisance vegetation and stormwater pond from working as help make the pond aesthetically pleasdesigned. Don’t dump excess oils and ing. Aquatic plants pump oxygen into the other chemicals from your home or yard water and create a habitat by providing waste, including grass clippings, into cover and nurseries for fish and other stormwater drains or ponds. Also, be organisms. Pond owners often request sure to clean up pet waste so nutrients approval to remove vegetation that and bacteria don’t enter stormwater becomes overgrown in stormwater drains.
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April 2019
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 4
Make Newsome’s Color Your Egg Run A Fun Family Tradition The annual Color Your Egg Run at Newsome High School is just around the corner. Newsome Seeds of Hope Club invites you to the most colorful fun run in town. It will take place at Newsome High School on Saturday, April 20 at 8 a.m. The whole family is welcome, since options for either a 5K and a 1-mile race are available. The races are untimed and draw many first-time runners. Walking is totally fine too. The race course will follow Newsome’s cross-country path as well as some paved areas. Along the route, Color Your Egg Runners are doused with spring-themed colored powder. Participants wear white at the starting line and finish the race dressed like a colorful Egg. Tutus, grass skirts, rainbow headbands, and bunny ears are just a few of the festive accessories that can complete your outfit. Participant Tracy Rich said, “The Color Your Egg Run has become a family tradition for us. We have run it together as a family for the last three years, and we always have a blast. We are often separated on the weekends with the kids’ different sports schedules, but we make it a priority to be together for this run.” The kids love getting sprayed with the colors
Staff Report
and enjoy the search for Easter Eggs at the end. “The atmosphere is always so exciting and the kids love seeing their friends; it’s a great community event supporting a wonderful cause,” she added. Color Your Egg Runners will encounter color stations where volunteers will be aiming to decorate you with brilliant spring-time color. The powder is biodegradable food starch dyed with food-safe coloring and is safe. Sunglasses are recommended to protect your eyes and a plastic bag to protect your phone. After the race, the fun continues with music, dancing, photo ops with the Color Run Bunny, and an egg hunt for the kids. Registration is $20 per participant through the end of March. Pricing goes up to $25 through April 19. Race-day registration will be available from 6:30-7:30 a.m. Children three and under are free with a paying adult; strollers are welcome, but it will be a bumpy ride. All proceeds benefit local hunger relief through Seeds of Hope. Event t-shirts, color packets, and finisher medals will be available for the first 500 participants. Register at EventBrite.com at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/color-youregg-run-tickets-56924040337?aff=ebdssbdestsearch or at https://sohopefl.org/color-egg-run/.
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April 2019
Page 29
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
l a i c o S , s e l a S d r Ya Dancing & More…
and April 27 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade Blvd. in Plant olesanti, C City. This lle he ic M by Compiled om .c er dance will be social dancrv se ob ey pr michelle@os ing on a 3,000 sq. ft. floating wood floor. Dance to the music by DJ Ken Miller. Social dancing includes slow Annual Friends And Flea Event dances, waltzes, line dances, cha-cha The spring Friends and Flea will be and rumbas, two-step and country slow, held Friday and Saturday, April 5 and 6 swing and freestyle. The cost is $6 a under the sprawling oak trees at the 10 person. No alcohol is to be brought on acre Patterson Farm, located at 2706 property. Water and cups are available. Ranch Rd. (off Durant Rd.). Please bring your own snacks and There will be over 20 vendors with drinks. Visit antiques, vintage, shabby chic, collectibles, furniture and other treasures. Smokin’ Gypsy BBQ will be open, along with baked goods and freshly squeezed lemonade. The gates will open promptly at 8:30 a.m. and close at 4 p.m.
Yard Sale Benefits GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club
The GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club is holding a yard sale on Saturday, April 13 from 8 a.m.-12 Noon at its clubhouse, located at 129 N. Moon Ave. in Brandon. Proceeds will be used for many of the service projects that Brandon Junior Woman’s Club participates in throughout the community.
You Are Invited For Social Dancing
Plant City Social Dance will hold a dance on Saturday, on April 13, April 20
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South Shore Democratic Club May Meeting
Purchase Tickets and see details at Facebook.com/BarnsandBeer. Old McMicky's Farm is located at 9612 Crescent Dr. in Odessa.
Annual Submarine Veterans Memorial Service
County Democratic Party Chair, for an update on the local and state party. All Democrats and like-minded individuals are invited and encouraged to attend this free event. Visit and Like the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SSDEMCLUB or visit www.SouthShoreDemocrats.org for more information.
Barns & Beer Craft Beer Festival Benefits Old McMicky's Farm Foundation
Old McMicky’s is a beautiful, classic farm with a big red barn and brandnew Sky Lodge set on a picturesque 40-acre lake is hosting a Barns & Beer Craft Beer Festival on Saturday, April 13. Enjoy over 100 of the best craft beers and wine with great entertainment, great food and friends. Proceeds also benefit WoundedVets.org. Soul Circus Cowboys, voted best country band in the area, will entertain.
Tang Base of the United States Submarine Veterans Inc. (USSVI) will host its annual Submarine Memorial Service on Saturday, April 20 at 11 a.m. The service will be in front of the Submarine Museum at the Hillsborough County Veterans Memorial Park, located at 3602 US Hwy. 301 N. in Tampa. The Service serves to recognize the extreme sacrifices and loss of all U.S. Submarines, both peacetime and wartime. Visitors are welcome to attend and observe this solemn and patriotic service.
Pinwheels For Prevention
The Children’s Board Family Resource Centers invite you to join in for fun activities throughout April to learn more about preventing child abuse. Call 740-4634 to reserve your spot on Monday, April 8 from 11 a.m.12 Noon for an Ice Cream Social and Painting Pinwheels at 1271 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon.
Join the South Shore Democratic Club for the May meeting, held at the (golf cart-friendly) Sun City Center Chamber of Commerce, 1651 Sun City Center Plaza in Sun City Center on the first Thursday of the month, May 2. Meet ‘n Mingle with refreshments at 1 p.m. and general meeting at 1:30 p.m. Join fellow Democrats, Liberals, Progressives and Independents to welcome Ione Townsend, Hillsborough
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Page 30
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 4
New Dad Thanks His Fire Rescue New Brandon-Based Team Helps Team After Electrocution Accident Local Families Facing Homelessness By Kate Quesada By Kate Quesada
A team of tal. Hillsborough “The acciCounty Fire dent happened Rescuers on December (HCFR) 6 and my son received a spewas born on cial thank you December 9,” last month. said Stevens. Bloomingdale “He is now resident Wes three months Stevens preold, the same sented the fireas me.” fighters that Stevens is saved his life in a woodworking December with Bloomingdale resident and Tampa Firefighter Wes hobbyist who handmade Stevens recently presented handmade wooden flags sells his art to the team of Hillsborough County Fire Rescuers through his wooden flags who saved his life in December. to thank them business, for coming to Black Axe his aid when Designs. he lost con“I have sciousness in been doing his home. woodwork for Stevens, several years,” who is also a said Stevens. firefighter at “I started makTampa’s Fire ing cornhole Rescue Station boards and my 22, was woodlove for woodworking in his working garage in expanded to December anything from when he was small, handelectrocuted with a 2,000 volt current that carved signs to farmhouse tables, home ran through his body and stopped his decor, sliding barn doors or entertainment heart. According to Hillsborough County centers, to name just a few. Everything I Senior Media Relations Strategist Chris make is to order for customers of mine.” Wilkerson, the accident left Stevens cliniMany of Stevens’ pieces of art cally dead for 17 minutes until the team include the fractal burning of designs into arrived to jolt his unresponsive heart with wood. He came up with a special design a defibrillator. to thank the firefighters who saved his life. “The second jolt brought him back,” “The gifts I made for the County firesaid Wilkerson. fighters were small wooden ‘Thin Red HCFR transported Stevens to Tampa Line’ American flags,” said Stevens. “I General Hospital, where he spent 11 wanted to thank them personally and days in the Burn Intensive Care Unit, and since I do woodworking, I felt that would this month he returned to full active duty. be a nice gift.” Three days after the accident, To learn more about Black Axe Stevens’ wife Hannah gave birth to the Designs, search for the business on couple’s son, Morgan, in the same hospiFacebook or Instagram or call 625-7292.
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Metropolitan the family stress Ministries is known and make strides in the Tampa Bay towards self-suffiarea for helping ciency. The prothousands of famigram’s goals are to lies facing homehelp the children lessness every achieve success at year. One of the school and to stabigroup’s lesser lize the family life known programs, by reducing stress First Hug, helps and providing the children of resources, tools these families and and education that Metropolitan Ministries recently opened a recently expanded nine-person Brandon area office to help fami- also lead to conto the Brandon nection with job lies facing homelessness. area. and home placement services where According to Sandra Gonzalez, appropriate. Supervisor of Family Advocates for “Our specialists and advocates can Metropolitan Ministries, the charity decid- come to the family and see where they ed to open an office in Brandon late last need help,” said Gonzalez. “Once we year after noticing a large number of sign on with a family, we meet weekly, referrals coming from the area. face-to-face to help with issues from child “The First Hug Program has been a developmental screenings to aid in findsuccessful one for us for more than five ing safe living environments.” years,” said Karrie Roller, Vice President Since opening in January, the of Case Management for Metropolitan Brandon office has received 71 referrals Ministries. “We felt strongly that with the and has already started helping 34 familarge number of people expressing interlies with many more pending. Specialists est in the program from the Brandon are bilingual and can help English and area that it would be beneficial to Spanish-speaking families. become immersed in the community and The program is supported by a grant base a team there.” from the Hillsborough County Children’s First Hug is a child-centered program Board, but donations and volunteers are for families with children from birth to always needed. Residents with expertise middle school age who are homeless or in financial, credit counseling and facing homelessness. Families referred employment areas are especially needed to the program, either through schools, to offer bootcamps and classes for other agencies or self-identification, meet clients working towards stabilization. with a mobile team of family and child To learn more about the program, advocates to establish a plan to reduce visit www.metromin.org or call 385-4016.
April 2019
Page 31
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
oga Y t a o G , n Luncheo ore… &M
The cost is $35 for adults and $25 for kids ages 5+. Participants must bring their own mat. The furry workout partners will be provided by Fallen Oak Farms. There will be bunnies too. To register, visit https://bit.ly/2CaHoqX
gatherings began a few weeks later with the first pot-luck picnic. With members aging, and in need of someone to manage the , yearly event, the Brandon High Colesanti Michelle y b d e il p m o c School Alumni Association began r. e Com rv e ospreyobs sponsoring the Old Timers in michelle@ 2009. At the same time, another traditional event tied to BHS -The Grand Reunion, was in need of Centerpoint Church Opens help with their annual spring affair. Hop On Over To Brandon Christian New Campus In With many of the same members Women Connections Luncheon Brandon/Valrico Area in both organizations, it made ‘A Bunny Hop’ will feature a fun jewCenterpoint Church is sense to combine the two, and elry exchange so bring a non-favorite expanding its reach in the the Grand Reunion members piece of jewelry and exchange for someN Zone Sports of Fishhawk donated $1,160 to FishHawk Strong, were invited to be a part of the greater Brandon area by thing new to you. The luncheon with a fundraising team for Fishhawk Relay for Life this morning. N launching a second campus in Old Timers festivities. Members entertainment will be on Monday, April 8 Zone Sports of Fishhawk owners Deneen Klenke and John Valrico. The goal of the church voted on a new name at the 2010 Dolloff donate a certain dollar figure for every registrant. It is a from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Bell Shoals Baptist community-based sports organization and want to give back to event, and the Brandon Area has always been to meet the Church in the Special Event Center, 2102 the community. This season, the American Cancer Society and tangible needs of the communi- FishHawk Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. Strong were the charities of choice. Pictured l-r: John Community Picnic was created. ty and to ‘tear down every barriThe Picnic has its own board of Dolloff, Bob Abruzzese, Deneen Klenke and Madonna The cost is $15 and first time guests Abruzzese. er to the Gospel of Jesus.’ This directors, made up of BHSAA pay $10. Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for campus will be called members. Sundays at both campuses. reservation and more information. ‘Centerpoint Church - North’ and is locatOriginally the gathering was for peoFor more information, visit www.cened at 1720 S. St. Cloud Rd. in Valrico. It ple who resided in the area since 1955, terpointfl.org. Goat Yoga Fundraiser Benefits Y’s will hold more than 400 people, roughly but now welcomes area residents of 20 Annual Campaign double the size of the current Centerpoint years and longer, and all BHS alumni and Brandon Area Comunity Picnic On Saturday, April 20, our memberChurch campus on Miller The Brandon Area Community ship director Rd. Picnic will be held on Saturday, April Rebecca Piatt Centerpoint plans to 13 at the Brandon Elks Lodge, will be instructleave both campuses located at 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. ing a 10:30 a.m. open, calling the current in Brandon. Registration is at 11 class at the campus ‘Centerpoint a.m. with the program beginning at North Brandon Church South.’ The new 11:45 a.m. Family YMCA campus used to be the It is an annual pot-luck gatheron 3097 S. home of Horizon Christian ing of BHS Alumni and long-time Kingsway Rd. in Church, which joined residents of the greater Brandon Seffner. under the banner of area. Originally called The Greater Goat Yoga Enjoy Goat Yoga while helping raise funds Centerpoint Church in Brandon Old Timers Association, is a relaxed for the Y’s Annual Campaign. mid-2018. The the concept of the get together was form of yoga Centerpoint Church North is also home conceived in 1978 at the 50th open to yogis of every skill level. During a to Hispanic Church of Brandon, which will Anniversary celebration of the typical session, the participants are more In March the Newsome High School Theatre now meet on Sunday afternoons. Brandon Women’s Club. Designed than welcome to pet the goats or simply Department presented The Jungle Book, a play The Centerpoint Church North offias a way to keep up with old friends focus on the yoga practice. However, with from ArtReach Children’s Theatre based on the cially launches on Easter weekend, holdand high school pals, the annual classic novel by Rudyard Kipling and popularized their intrinsic energy and playfulness in film by Disney. ing four services, free coffee and pastries along with a short attention span - the and an Easter egg hunt on Saturday goats will attempt to break your concenevening (after the 5 p.m. services). Easter tration and get you to play with them instead. It is pretty hard to take yourself or service times are as follows: Saturday, April 20 at 5 p.m. at both north and south life too seriously when there are goats locations; Sunday, April 21 – Centerpoing involved, so this a great way to break North at 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:30 from your normal mindset and relieve p.m. and at Centerpoing South, 9 and stress. All proceeds go toward the Y’s annu- 10:45 a.m. After Easter weekend, service times al campaign to help families facing finanwill continue at 9: and 10:45 p.m. on cial hardship benefit from the Y.
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Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
al n o i t a n r e t In y a D h t r a E , Festival ation & Celebr … More
livestock shows, free entertainment, rides, food, arts and crafts vendors and more, said Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis. “This year’s attendance was one for the books,” said Davis. “We are so fortunate to lesanti, ichelle Co M y b d e be able to celebrate this m o c r. e Compil erv ospreyobs @ e accomplishment with our comll e h ic m munity. We attribute our success to the hundreds of 8th Annual International volunteers Festival At The Village Early and patrons Learning Center who come each year to Students at The Village share in the Early Learning Center study harvest of and celebrate cultural diversity what makes as well as Plant City so what it special.” means to be a citiThis sand crane has eggs about to hatch. A turtle to the right is waiting on Earth Day zen in dinner. Celebration today’s global community. Join in for a fun Earth Day celebraThey learn to honor tion on Thursday, April 4 at 11 a.m. It will what makes people take place at the Children’s Board Family different and appreciate the many things Resource Centers in Brandon (managed we have in common with love, respect by Children’s Home Network), at 1271 and acceptance. Kingway Rd. in Brandon. The International Festival, which will Create your very own caterpillar and take place on Saturday, April 6 from 10 watch it grow. Snacks will be provided. a.m.-2 p.m., is an extension of this learnPlease call 740-4634 for more inforing, and the school welcomes friends and mation. Visit www.familysupporthc.org. community members to join in for this free event. All children in attendance will 2019 Egypt Shrine Circus At Florida receive a new book to take home. Fairgrounds There is a stage with live entertainAll families are welcomed to join in ment beginning at 10 a.m. and a food for fun, laughter and great fun at the 54th truck on campus for the event. Tour the Annual Egypt Shrine Circus, which will classrooms and visit displays outside, take place at the Florida Fairgrounds which are decorated to represent counThursday, April 11 through Sunday, April tries from around the world. You will even 14. have a passport; do not forget to get it For 2019, Dapper Dan, the Circus stamped as you travel the globe. Country Leader, is bringing a full carnival of 18 displays include history, customs, fun exciting rides, including a Ferris wheel facts, crafts and even food. and carousel. Each general admission Volunteers are also needed to help at ticket includes admission to the shows the event. If you would like to help or and all the carnival rides. Come and want to learn more about this special day, enjoy our friendly clowns, fantastic shows, please contact Paul or Sara Anton at the carnival rides and all the nostalgia of ps@lucidnight.com or the VFF at thevilthe circus tent and frolic. lagefamilyfoundation@gmail.com. Show times are scheduled: Thursday The Village Early Learning Center is and Friday, April 11 and 12 at 4:30 and located at 3741 Canoga Park Dr. in 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13 at 11:30 a.m., Brandon. 3 and 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 14 at 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. Florida Strawberry Popcorn and other concession Festival Releases snacks will be available for purchase dur2019 Attendance ing each show. General admission for The 84th adults is $25, adult veteran/first responder Annual Florida admission (no rides) is free. General Strawberry Festival Admission for a child is $15 and a child of ended on March 10 a military/first responder is $10. with record-breaking For more information or to purchase attendance. tickets, visit https://egyptshrine.org/cirThe 11-day event drew nearly cus2.php. 563,000 visitors to take part in concerts,
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Lost and Found – The Mysterious Journey Of A Childhood Bible
By Kelly Wise Valdes
My alarm my parents still live in sounded at 6 a.m., Jacksonville. Kim sent and I begrudgingly Teo more pictures to pulled myself out of send to me. Many of bed. This day was the photographs were like any other day– of the notes inside of but this particular the pages of the Bible morning took an that were in my mothunexpected turn. I er’s handwriting. My had a Facebook sister’s name was message from a even written on one of longtime friend, Teo the pages. Leonard. Still, in disbelief, I "Hello, Kelly. I went to find my Bible Kim Patterson found a bible dedicated to just saw this post Kelly Wise from 1975 and reconnected on my bookshelf and with her to return it. from a friend of opened it up. Then I mine named Kim Patterson–and I realized that the Bible on thought you might be my bookshelf was one interested in seeing that my parents gave me it…” Then he sent back when I was a me a copy of the young adult. post: Teo put me in “Last week I'm out touch Kim. We made at a thrift store looking arrangements to for a few outfits for a meet. We immedichild we took under our ately hugged, and wing. There were books with a sign sayI saw my childing Bibles are free! I politely asked if I hood Bible, discould take 2 and they have been in my played on her wall backseat ever since. Yesterday morning in her dining room. for some reason I opened one of them It was very worn, up. Kelly Wise - this Bible was dedicated from either being to you on 8-31-75. Mrs. Sandra Collins well loved or from was your teacher along with Mary Poole. the mysterious ..." journey that evenWell, my maiden name was Wise, tually brought it to but I didn’t know who this Kim lady was a thrift store in Ruskin. and why would my Bible be in a thrift “When I happened to open your shop? My Bible was on the bookshelf in Bible, the verse circled was about serving my room. others,” said Kim. “This is what actually So, I replied to Teo, “Well In 1975 I sparked my interest.” would have been in 3rd grade. But those “Why I posted that day on Facebook people’s names don’t sound familiar to I have no idea,” as she continued telling me at all. I don’t think it’s mine. In 1975 her story. “I pick up Bibles, but I don't look lived in Jacksonville, Florida and went to through them.” a small Methodist church. Where exactly She graciously gave me back my did she find this Bible?” childhood Bible, although part of me He replied that Kim lives in the wanted her to keep it. I know she was Ruskin area and that she picks up Bibles meant to find it, and I consider it ‘our’ in thrift stores to hand out to people that Bible now. Our paths were meant to she may run across that would need one. cross for a reason. Was this God’s I’ve moved quite a bit in my life but all reminder to me that I had drifted from my my books have moved with me, and I’ve beliefs? Did He want me to know that my never been to a thrift store in Ruskin. Out dusty Bible and my dusty heart needed a of pure curiosity, I asked if he could have good cleaning? Is this God’s way of getKim send him a picture of this mystery ting my attention to remind me that He is Bible. still here and loves me? It could all be a Then Teo sent a picture of the inside series of coincidences, but I believe in the page of the Bible that said, "This Bible is God of miracles. dedicated to Kelly Wise. August 31, 1975. How did my childhood Bible find its Wesconnett United Methodist Church." way to a thrift store in Ruskin? This we It WAS my Bible! That was my child- may never know. But, my childhood Bible hood church! It’s about a mile from where has finally found its way home.
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April 2019
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Community Roundtable Celebrates 60 Year Honorary Mayor Tradition At Awards Dinner
By Kathy L. Collins
This year, the School, were both Community awarded a $1,000 Roundtable celescholarship. brated 60 years of Vodopich the time-honored thanked all of the tradition of the Honorary Mayors Honorary Mayor of and said, "This Brandon. All past scholarship would Honorary Mayors not be possible withwere honored and out your efforts." recognized at the Kanarek said, "I realScholarship Winners - (Parents) Ines & dinner. The ‘race’ is Mark ized how much kindKanarek, Adriana Kanarek, (Parents) held each June, Cindy & Denver Vodopich, Paige Vodopich ness has an impact and the candidate on people. who raises the most Participating in the money for local noncommunity gives you profits ‘wins.’ a feeling like no In addition to other." honoring fellow citiThe Non-Profit of zens who were the Year was awardnamed Honorary ed to Family Promise Mayor of Brandon, of Hillsborough the Community County. Roundtable awardThis organization Non-Profit of the Year was Family ed scholarships and serves homeless Promise - Lisa Rodriguez, Edwina several awards at families and children. Reddick and Deborah Humphrey. the dinner. They have assisted 720 people to get In announcing the recipients of this back on their feet by providing safe and year's High School Scholarships, Janine sustainable housing as well as long-lastNickerson, President of the Community ing employment. Roundtable, said, "The future of the comTheir motto is ‘Every child deserves a munity is in the hands of the youth. To home.’ celebrate students who support local nonThe Alice B. Tompkins Community profits by volunteering countless hours, Service Award was given to Coach Tony we give out scholarships. This year, for Saladino, who has served the Greater the first time, we are pleased to Brandon community for over 60 years. announce two winners." Saladino said, "I accept this in honor Paige Vodopich, a senior at of my wife and my family. It is always Bloomingdale High School, and Adriana special to receive an award in your comKanarek, a senior at Newsome High munity given by your community."
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 4
April 2019
Page 35
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Fresh New Work Spotlights Florida Orchestra Violinist
By Kurt Loft
If a thoroughly modadvance, for this Tampa ern orchestra wants to Bay Times Masterworks make its mark beyond concert. dusting off the busts of Other upcoming Beethoven and Brahms, TFO concerts include: it needs to perform thorRagtime, Blues oughly modern music to and All That Jazz reflect our own time. In (Friday to Sunday, April, TFO tips its hat to April 5-7): Fan favorite the new with Grammytrumpeter Byron nominated composer Stripling showcases Anna Clyne, who makes classics from Duke her Tampa Bay premiere Ellington, Louis Photo courtesy of Matt Dine Armstrong, Cab with The Seamstress, Violinist Sarah Shellman. featuring TFO’s own Calloway and more. Jeff Sarah Shellman on solo violin. Tyzik conducts. Clyne calls The Seamstress an Taste of Vienna (Wednesday & ‘imaginary one-act ballet’ and Thursday, April 24-25): Savor the describes her work as follows: “Alone best of Vienna, with Mozart’s Cosi Fan on the stage, the seamstress is seatTutte Overture, Beethoven’s Fidelio ed, unraveling threads from an antique Overture and Strauss Jr.’s Roses from cloth lay gently over her lap. Lost in the South Waltz. Daniel Black conher thoughts, her mind begins to ducts this morning Coffee concert. meander and her imagination spirals Free coffee and doughnuts. into a series of five tales that range The Music of John Williams from love to despair, and that combine (Saturday, April 27, 2 & 8 pm): memory with fantasy.’’ She drew inspiFeaturing some of the most recognizaration from the short poem, A Coat, by ble scores in cinematic history, includWilliam Butler Yeats. ing Star Wars, Jaws, Harry Potter, Composed in 2015, the 23-minute Schindler’s List and ET. Daniel Black piece is for violin, orchestra and ampli- conducts in the Raymond James Pops fied electronics. Its part of a concert series, with a Saturday matinee. highlighting the influence of women, The Florida Orchestra performs with guest conductor Gemma New regularly at the Straz Center in Tampa, leading TFO in Brahms’ Symphony Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth No. 1 and Schumann’s Manfred Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. The orchesOverture. Concerts are Friday to tra offers affordably priced tickets to a Sunday, April 12-14 in Tampa and St. variety of concerts; prices vary. See Petersburg, with a Sunday matinee. FloridaOrchestra.org or call 727-892Free tickets for kids and teens in 3337 and 800-662-7286.
Della’s Café And Bistro In Brandon Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary
By Tatiana Ortiz
The aroma of of breakfast ground cinnamon items from and maple syrup 7-11 a.m. filled the dining such as the room area of Mexican Della’s Café and Benedict, Bistro in Brandon which costs as items off of its $8.50. This breakfast menu dish conwere being sists of two served. Since poached 1989, Beverly eggs on top Dellagrotta and her husband Anthony Mexican Street Corn Salad. Dellagrotta gained much support throughout the of an English community and now celebrates being in muffin with pico operation for 30 years. de gallo and Della’s Café and Bistro came into much more. For fruition through a suggestion from a dinlunch from 11 ner party she had as the guests felt a.m.-2:30 p.m., impressed by her delicious eclectic dishpeople could order the popular chicken es, and they thought that Beverly should salad among many other great choices. open a restaurant, naming it Della’s Della’s Café and Bistro also provides a Delectables. At a young age, Beverly variety of beverages, desserts and daily always had a passion for the art of prepa- specials, too. Guests can either dine-in, ration and food. Eventually, she opened take-out or utilize a few delivery options Della’s Café and Bistro. In addition, such as Mobile Meals. Those interested Beverly’s mother, Becky, also stepped in could book a private event as well. to assist her daughter from the very “All in all, my fabulous staff makes beginning by preparing the menu and sure that the people get taken care of,” cooking. Currently, Becky still makes all of Beverly said. “To add, once someone the desserts sold at Della’s Café and comes they will become a customer.” Bistro. For more information, visit www.delBeverly shares what makes it unique. lascafebistro.com or its Facebook page “I am always here, and when people www.facebook.com/DellasAfterDark/. It is come they feel like family,” Beverly said. located at 608 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon The 2,400 sq. ft. restaurant can seat and is open Monday through Friday, 7 65 people comfortably. It serves an array a.m.- 2:30 p.m. Call 684-3354.
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Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Top Producer 2002 - 2018
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CUSTOM ARTHUR RUTENBERG HOME ON 0.66 ACRES IN FISH HAWK TRAILS! Magnificent 5/3.5/3 + bonus + pool home with details including crown, diagonal tile, whole home audio, neutral paint, gourmet kitchen & oversized rooms that have been bumped out! Private, resort-like lanai with two sitting areas! $850,000 ! G EWIN N T S LI
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STUNNING PULTE "CLEARVIEW" HOME IN FISHHAWK WEST! Impressive 4/2.5/2 + bonus home that offers all the bells & whistles incl. neutral paint, 20 inch tile, 8 ft doors, baths with quartz counters & more! Kitchen with designer gray cabinets, farmhouse sink, stainless appliances & more quartz counters! $320,000
FALL IN LOVE! Come quick and take a look at this exceptional 3/2/2 + office + salt-water pool home in FishHawk Ranch! This home offers million dollar water & conservation views! Interior boasts neutral paint, tray & volume ceilings, split floor plan, columns, French doors & more! You will absolutely love the lanai & views! $329,000
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April 2019
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
NUMBER ONE AGENT & TEAM IN TAMPA BAY
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THE GREENS NEIGHBORHOOD IN BLOOMINGDALE! 4/3/2 + pool home that boasts features such as Pergo flooring, plantation shutters, French doors, crown & neutral paint! The kitchen will delight & offers wood cabinets, granite counters & stainless appliances! Private yard with fencing between neighbors! $360,000 ! EW E N RIC P
DESIRABLE IBIS PARK HOME JUST AROUND THE CORNER FROM THE PARK! Fall in love with this 4/3/3 + office + bonus home is walking distance to Fishhawk Creek & offers upgraded floors including wood look tile, wide base, plantation shutters & volume ceilings! Kitchen with 42" cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! Perfect home! $435,000
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Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Local Blueberry Cottage Farms Invites Residents For U-Pick Calling all blueberry lovers. Lithia residents Lois Horn-Dias and Jose Dias are opening the gates of Blueberry Cottage Farms this month, offering two acres with approximately 2,000 plants for U-Pick. “We are so excited to welcome our wonderful customers,” said Lois, a teacher in Lakeland. “Jose single-handedly built our farm in his spare time and we love nothing more than seeing others enjoy it.” For 10 years, the farm’s berries were sold wholesale to commercial pickers Driscol and Clear Springs, but in 2016, after hosting charity events open to the public at the farm, the couple decided to transition to U-Pick and have not looked back. “Working the charity events made us realize how much we loved seeing so many others enjoying Jose’s labor of love,” said Lois. Lois posted on a local Facebook page, asking if residents would be interested in coming to U-Pick at their farm, and received an overwhelming response. “In just two days we had almost 500 responses and more than 300 comments, and that was that,” she said. “Jose happily gave up selling commercially and we became a U-Pick farm.”
By Kate Quesada
Blueberry Cottage Farms, which is seven miles and a 15 minute drive from FishHawk, offers three types of berries, Emeralds, Jewels and Millennials, and UPick is $4 a pound or $20 a bucket for cash or $4.20 a pound and $22 a bucket when paying with credit card. Buckets for picking and bags to take the berries home are supplied by the farm, which also has a port-a-potty and running water. An assortment of cold drinks are available for purchase. Lois suggests that visitors wear closed shoes and sunscreen. “We are told by customers that our farm is picturesque, quiet and peaceful,” said Lois. “There is a lot of room between rows and a lot of room to park. But what really sets us apart is that we love our customers. Each day we open for U-Pick, we feel as if we are hosting a party.” Blueberry Cottage Farms is located at 827 Old Welcome Rd. in Lithia. Hours vary as the season progresses, but UPick is typically open from 8:30 a.m. on Saturday mornings and Sunday openings are based on how much fruit is available. Weekday afternoon openings are often announced on the Facebook page. For more information, search for Blueberry Cottage Farm on Facebook or call 3901367.
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April 2019
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Manatee Apparel Graphics Is Hot Off The Presses & Ready To Fulfill Orders If you are looking for a local and family-owned apparel graphics business, look no further than Manatee Apparel Graphics. Dennis Frey and his wife own and run Manatee Apparel Graphics and are proud to offer screen printing, embroidery, digital printing (DTG), sublimation, banners, signs, decals, window clings and delivery services to the Tampa Bay area. Frey was born in the Bronx, NY and raised in the Northeast. He moved to Florida in 1983 and relocated to Manatee County in 1993. “I really wanted to have my own business and heard about a small company that might be for sale, Manatee Apparel Graphics,” said Frey. “I was working for a company that manufactured traffic control equipment around the world.” The Freys purchased the business in June 2002. “What I like best about Manatee Apparel is the people we meet and the diverse markets we serve,” said Frey. “We service schools, churches, bands, professional athletes, small businesses, corporations, civic organizations, municipalities, police, fire, military, family reunions, etc. With the equipment and the staff we have, if a customer needs it decorated, we can handle it. “ Screen printing remains the most
By Kelly Wise Valdes
widely known and widely used form of decorating custom apparel. With such a long legacy of fantastic quality workmanship along with outstanding customer service, coupled with a large variety of in-house services, the Freys launched an additional facility in Riverview more than 10 years ago, in January 2009. “We are a one-stop shop within the decorated apparel and promotional product industry,” said Frey. “We do it all inhouse with our machines and our employees, some of who have been with us for over a decade.” In addition, Manatee Apparel Graphics offers E-Commerce and fulfillment services. For customers who want to sell on the internet without the hassle, Manatee Apparel can build and host its website. Currently, Manatee Apparel Graphics is hosting a special for 15 percent off the next order for any customer, new or existing, who mentions this article from now through the end of 2019. People can also follow its Facebook page for other specials offered throughout the year. Call 677-1500 or visit www.manateeapparel.com and view the latest promotional video. Stop by the local office at 6520 U.S. Hwy 301, Suite 102 in Riverview.
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Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
llins Ms. Co
de 8th Gra iddle M n o t Barring hool c S d By
Sponsore
Signature Wade
Ms. Kimberlee Collins
Hillsborough Schools Proposal Creates ‘Spark’ To Attract Teachers To Highest Needs Schools
a teacher? Why did you decide to become m has taught Early mo My . self my I’m a teacher’s kid 35 years. I grew up wanting to Childhood Education for over the love of learning she be a teacher, wanting to share was always at school, always I rs. instilled in me over the yea ning something new. She surrounded by books, always lear and has helped make me the has been an inspiration to me teacher I am today.
Hillsborough Certified are also Schools know the offered $4,500 per most important facyear, and $1,000 per tor contributing to year is available for student success is teachers through the having a great ASPIRE program or classroom teacher as a National Board in front of our chilCertified Teacher dren. mentor. That is why Teachers in Tier Superintendent Jeff III schools will Eakins and School receive free child care Board Members and from the district’s Hillsborough before- and afterClassroom Teachers school care HOST Association program for their chilPresident Rob dren in K-8th grade. Hillsborough County Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins. Kriete stood sideTeachers in Tier I and by-side to propose ‘Spark’, a landII will receive 50 percent off child mark teacher incentive initiative. The care. groundbreaking initiative aims to Hillsborough Schools has approxrecruit top talent who are currently imately 200 classroom vacancies; the working in our district, and teachers majority in Achievement Schools. from outside our district, to teach in Superintendent Jeff Eakins and the one of 50 high needs Achievement School Board are making teacher Schools. It was recently approved by recruitment and retention a priority to the School Board. ensure every child has an effective ‘Spark’ is a teacher incentive initeacher leading their class. tiative that will provide substantial The funding for this incentive iniextra pay on top of teachers’ salaries, tiative comes from Title I and SAI along with other benefits. The goal is (Supplemental Academic Instruction) to not only create a spark to encourfunds, which must be used in high age teachers to answer the call in our needs schools. This initiative will put Achievement Schools, but also spark $17 million into the pockets of our the minds of the children they will teachers who work in Achievement influence in the classroom. Schools. This funding does not affect Teachers currently at the money that is used for overall Achievement Schools, and those who teacher salary negotiations, which choose to serve in Achievement comes from other sources. Schools, will be offered incentives Superintendent Jeff Eakins that the district and the teachers believes this will be an incentive for union believe will ultimately pay off many teachers. “We know we need with greater student achievement out- to make a major change that will comes. bring our most experienced teachers The incentives for the 2019-2020 to the children who need them the school year will include extra pay up most. Across the nation, teachers to $13,000 per year, $7,500 per year must be compensated for the incrediin the highest needs Tier III schools, ble work they do in the classroom. $5,000 per year for Tier II schools This is the first step our district is takand $3,600 per year for Tier I ing to ensure teachers across the schools. country see Hillsborough County as Teachers who are National Board the best option for their careers.”
Teacher Of The Month
cher? What is a goal of yours as a tea sful in their classes, and ces suc I want my students to be more importantly I obviously on FSA testing, but g learners. For want to teach them to be life-lon ng them not only chi tea many students, this means also to love readbut , lum the content of my curricu information and ing. When you know how to find lities are endless. learn to love books, your possibi , how we conThis is how we grow as a person ract in a posiinte tribute to society, and how we tive way with others. prising about you What would be something sur ting? that students would find interes ureate proI was in the International Baccala Ms. Colli morize me to ns has b had een a gram in high school, and 15 years teacher for for ys pla n rea pea kes . whole sections of Sha nalyze them as part of class and recite them outloud/a dy only increased my love for a final exam. This intensive stu my education parents were so supportive of Shakespeare and literature. My tion. We dua gra r afte d on a trip to Englan and interests, and they took me I was able and ks, wee e thre d-Upon-Avon for stayed in London and Stratfor Dad was a in the Globe Theater itself. My to see 5 Shakespeare plays, two he knew e all of these plays happily becaus really good sport and endured . how important they were to me why? What is your favorite book and r books (5, ter series, but especially the late Pot rry Ha ole a speI would have the wh feel I more times than I can count, and ks. 6, 7). I have read these books boo se and the moral lessons in the cial connection to the characters you live by? Is there a quote or saying that lves.” y’re capable of doing for themse the at wh n “Never do for childre
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April 2019
Page 41
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Florida Prepaid Scholarships Announced For STEM & Kindergarten Registration Hillsborough Schools announces two new scholarships, worth a combined $9,000, in conjunction with the Florida Prepaid College Program. Visit http://bit.ly/EakinsScholarships for more information about the scholarships. Superintendent Jeff Eakins’ ‘Future of STEM Scholarship’ is a two-year Florida College Plan worth $8,000. It is designed to encourage new teachers in areas with critical shortages. The scholarship will be awarded to a junior or senior student attending Hillsborough Schools who writes a 500-word essay about why they wish to become a teacher in a STEM subject. Superintendent Jeff Eakins’ ‘Preparing Students For Life Scholarship’ is a Florida 529 Savings Plan worth $1,000. It aims to emphasize the importance of registering for school early. A parent or guardian who attends a Kindergarten Countdown event or begins the registration process to enter kindergarten by Yuesday, April 30 for the 2019-20 academic year is eligible. An eligible student’s name will be drawn at random. “We are grateful for these scholarships from the Florida Prepaid College Program,” Eakins said. “With one scholarship for a student preparing for college and one scholarship for a student about to begin their time in school, this is the perfect way to rec-
Staff Report
ognize the entire spectrum of work we do at Hillsborough Schools.” The Florida Prepaid College Program is providing these scholarships as it celebrates its 30th anniversary. “It is so exciting to have this new two-year scholarship for our future STEM teachers in Hillsborough County,” said Larry Plank, the district’s Director of K-12 STEM Education. “This is a valuable reward for one of our best and brightest students, who will inspire the top future students in these subjects.” The kindergarten scholarship is designed to emphasize the importance of getting registered early for school and to help a student entering their school years to be even more prepared for their future. “We’re delighted to have this opportunity for our incoming students,” said Lisa Black, the Kindergarten Supervisor for Hillsborough Schools. “This also just reinforces how important it is for parents to have their children registered for kindergarten before the April 30 deadline.” With a Florida Prepaid Plan, families can lock in future college costs and spread them out over many years. Families can spend less and their child’s college tuition will be waiting for them. Families can pick whichever Prepaid Plan makes sense for their budget.
NOMINATIONS NEEDED! Your favorite teacher could have their very own spotlight editorial in the Osprey Observer Community Newspaper! Complete the form below and email your nomination to: teacher@ospreyobserver.com
GET THE DIRT WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT
Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension
2019 Florida State Fair - Recycled Yard Art Contest Twice a year, the James Shull UF/IFAS Extention received the third place Service of award for his mini chopHillsborough County per created with old sponsors a Recycled tools, wrenches and Yard Art Contest, one sockets. at the Hillsborough Unfortunately, no County Fair and one entries were received at the Florida State from elementary, middle Fair. The purpose of or high school students. the Recycled Yard Art Some interesting Contest is to increase and creative entries Hamilton won first place for his were received once environmental aware- Andy ‘Dragon’ created with chains, car ness and encourage again this year. Each of parts and tools. reuse/recycling of us would probably be materials into yard art. surprised at how creThe competition ative we can be. This is involved two and three a great time to put on dimensional art creatyour thinking caps for a ed from items already Recycled Yard Art projused for their original ect you have been conpurpose. During the sidering creating…and 12 days of the 2019 create it. The next Florida State Fair, Recycled Yard Art comattendees voted for petition will take place Andy Hamilton won second place for in the fall of 2019 at the the People’s Choice his creation ‘Trixie’. award on one of the Hillsborough County 17 entries submitted. Fair and again at the The votes have been Florida State Fair in tallied, all 10,801 and 2020. Please plan to the winner is: Andy participate. Hamilton for the The winning entries ‘Dragon’ created with were on display at the chains, car parts and UF/IFAS Extension tools. Service until March 7. It Hamilton also is located at 5339 CR won first place as 579 in Seffner. You are James Shull received third place for determined by total welcome to stop by and his mini chopper created with old tools, wrenches and sockets. vote count for the stroll through the Bette ‘Dragon.’ S. Walker Discovery Garden and see The second place award went to what else is offered. Thanks for Hamilton for ‘Trixie’ made with a dress Reducing, Reusing, Recycling and form, car parts and tools. Repeating.
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Page 42
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Seven Couples Renew Vows Together
By Kate Quesada
A group of and guests Valrico residents enjoyed a made a very special Valentine’s Daycommitment last themed reception month. In honor of with drinks, dinner Valentine’s Day, and dessert. seven couples from Married for 73 the Featherock manyears, Elvis and ufactured home Mary Lou have community renewed advice for couples their wedding vows who have not in the community’s been together for club house. as long. According to RJ “I think the Seven couples living in Valrico’s Featherock success of our Bruce, Associate Community renewed their wedding vows in with Reputation marriage is, he a joint ceremony last month. Partners Communications, the seven lets me be me and I let him be him,” couples had been married a combined said Mary Lou. “I knew when I was 10 343 years when they renewed their years old that he was the man I was vows. going to marry.” “The couples reaffirmed their comRobert and Carol, who celebrated mitment to one another, honored the their 50th anniversary with the renewal years of marriage they already shared also shared their secrets to marriage and raised a glass to their futures togeth- success. er,” said Bruce. “People ask us, ‘How do you stay The couples who participated were together that long?,’” said Carol. “He’s Robert and Margaret Hoinkis, who my best friend.” have been married for 58 years; “She’s right here and its the same Robert and Carol Zavacki, who celething the other way,” said Robert. brated their 50th anniversary the day “That’s the way it’s been for 50 years.” of the renewal; Elvis and Mary Lou Featherock is a 55 and older comWilson, who have been married for 73 munity with more than 900 residents. years; Samuel and Myrian Hernandez, Amenities include a clubhouse with bilwho have celebrated 21 years of marliards and a game room, a library, riage; Bernie and Amy Robart, who shuffleboard and tennis courts and a married 40 years ago; Horst and swimming pool. Gudrun Odparlik, who have been marThe community is located at 2200 ried for 63 years and Diane and Issac S.R. 60 E. in Valrico. For information, Yates, who are celebrating 38 years of visit www.mymhcommunity.com/commarriage. munities/Florida/Featherock or call After the ceremony, the couples 855-678-5694.
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It is often said rant has this dish, but that, “Behind the the way we make it, to success of every be honest, I do not small business, think I’ve had it anythere is a family.” where else,” Beulah This statement said. “The way we best describes make it here is so rich Tandoor Indian and creamy and full of Cuisine in flavor.” Brandon, a familyMany people who owned and operathave not tried Indian ed restaurant. “My food are often scared parents opened to because they think it Tandoor Indian Cuisine in Brandon is a is too spicy. Beulah and the restaurant in local, family-owned restaurant located at November of 2008 his family are aware of 805 E. Brandon Blvd. with no restaurant or business experithis, so they give their guests options for ence,” said Keziah Beulah, restaurant how spicy they can have their food. “If manager. “My mom has always loved to you have never tried Indian food because cook and would cook for friends and fami- you think it might be too spicy, we have ly. People would always tell my mom how many items on our menu that are not good of a cook she is, so my parents spicy at all,” Beulah said. “Most of our went forward with the idea to open a menu, you can choose the spice level restaurant to share their cooking.” that you would like (mild, medium, hot or Tandoor Indian Cuisine opened when Indian).” Beulah was a junior in high school. Beulah and his family are strong sup“When they had the idea of opening the porters of shopping local as well. “We restaurant more than 10 years ago, there know the struggle of being a local busiwere not any Indian restaurants in the ness and how much hard work needs to Brandon area,” Beulah said. be put in to survive,” Beulah said. “The Being a family-owned and operated amount of work my parents put in to the restaurant is what makes Tandoor Indian restaurant just reminds me that shopping Cuisine different from some of the other local is better for our community and it Indian restaurants in the area. “We ourcan also help out a lot of people.” selves eat there a lot and we want to Visit www.tandoorbrandon.com or make sure the food we eat is of the best call Beulah at 654-7300. It is located at quality,” Beulah said. “So, the products 805 E. Brandon Blvd. The hours of operathat we use for our guests are the same tion for lunch are Monday to Saturday we are using for ourselves.” from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner hours are Chicken Tikka Masala is their most Monday to Saturday 4–9 p.m. The popular dish. “Almost every Indian restau- restaurant is closed on Sundays.
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April 2019
Page 43
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Have A Sweet Time At The Kandy Shoppe In Plant City
Southern Eye Care Associates Welcomes New Doctor Of Optometry
You can get a litknow, “We are still a tle slice of chocolate family-owned business. heaven when you We continue to be visit The Kandy hands-on with the prodShoppe located at ucts and we offer per106 N. Drane St. in sonal, one-on-one historic downtown attention to all of our Plant City. The customers.” Kandy Shoppe is All of the chocolate family-owned and creations at The Kandy operated by Anthony Shoppe are made in and Mandy Keyes, house from the finest brother and sister. ingredients. Everything Mandy is the The Kandy Shoppe in Plant City is a is hand-dipped. The chocolate maker and destination for chocolate lovers. You lemons and strawberwill be transported to chocolate heav- ries are locally sourced. the face of the busien and be glad that you made the trip. ness. Mandy is The quality of the prodfriendly and knowledgeable about all uct is outstanding and everything is things chocolate. She is quite skilled at always fresh. Mandy said, “We turn the making the best chocolate in the area. product at least two times per week. That Virginia Cozy of Valrico said, “The is how quickly it sells.” caramel chocolate bark is the best I have The Kandy Shoppe offers specialty ever tried.” items during the holidays. They will have The Kandy Shoppe was formerly Easter baskets and different varieties of called Neumeister’s Candy Shoppe. chocolate along with the perennial When the former owners wanted to sell favorite chocolate bunnies. The Kandy the shop, they did not have to look far as Shoppe will take special orders. Just be Mandy was working for them. Mandy sure to give them plenty of notice (two to said, “They did not want to sell to somethree weeks). If you are planning a wedone who would take it commercial. They ding, they can create bride and groom wanted someone they could trust to carry and even cake figures from chocolate. on the business.” Mandy said, “I like inventing different Mandy and Anthony have since things for people to enjoy. This is my expanded the delicious products they favorite part of the job.” offer to include delectable treats such as If you have a craving for really good naughty bombs (an outrageous concocchocolate or want a special treat for tion of chocolate and peanut butter), milk someone or an event, then visit The and white chocolate oreos and lemon Kandy Shoppe. It is well worth the trip to cream truffles. downtown Plant City. You can like them Mandy wants the community to on Facebook@TheKandyShoppe.
Sheree Wright, uling more time with D.O., has joined each patient to offer Southern Eye Care the best exam posAssociates as its sible. With an estinewest optometrist. mated one in four Wright, who joined school-age children the practice full-time in having some form February, graduated of a vision problem, from the University of early detection and California Riverside treatment can prowith a Bachelor of vide the best opporScience in Biology. tunity to help chilShe attended dren see clearly. Midwestern University Southern Eye College of Optometry, Care Associates Optometrist Sheree Wright, D.O. has where she earned a optician Dr. joined the staff of Southern Eye Care Associates in Valrico. Doctorate of Branning Hollis, Optometry with high honors. Afterwards, O.D. said Wright’s background in pedishe completed a residency in vision theratrics is a great asset to the practice. apy and rehabilitation at The State “She is so friendly and understanding with University of New York (SUNY) College of our younger patients,” he said. Optometry. Located at 3307 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. With a specialty in pediatrics, Wright in front of the Sprouts-anchored Valrico provides comprehensive eye exams, con- Center Shoppes, Southern Eye Care tact lens evaluations and medical eye Associates’ experienced eye doctors care for children. have been a leading provider of optomeShe makes her young patients feel try services and vision care products in comfortable in what can be an intimidatthe Valrico community since 2010. ing environment. “We are committed to our patients of “What drew me to this practice was all ages,” said Hollis. “Our goal is to that they make it a point to schedule increase quality of life through improved more time with each patient, and this vision correction.” allows me to take my time with children Southern Eye Care Associates is and really address their needs,” she said. open Tuesday–Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. and “With the kids, I can take my time and Saturday, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. make the exams more fun and less Hollis recommends calling the office scary.” in advance to schedule an appointment Wright stresses the importance of with Wright. To schedule an appointment, eyes exams for children and the praccall 654-0220 or visit www.visionsourcetice’s ability to meet their needs by sched- valrico.com.
By Kathy L. Collins
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Page 44
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Egg Hunts, Crafts, Activities And Family Fun All Around Town First Presbyterian Church of Brandon will host an Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, April 20 at 10 a.m. Bring a basket and a dish to share. The event will feature crafts, games, an egg hunt and potluck lunch. The church is located at 121 Carver Ave. in Brandon. Grace Baptist Church will host an Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 20 at 10 a.m. Children 12 and under are asked to bring a basket for the hunt. The egg hunt will also include complimentary photos with the Easter Bunny. The church is located at 2909 John Moore Rd. in Brandon. For more information, visit www.growingatgrace.com. Hawthorne Village Retirement Community invites you to its Bunny Hop Treat Trail on Friday, April 19. The ribbon cutting to open the treat trail is at 10:30 a.m. There will be treat stations set up on the trail and the Easter Bunny will be on site. Hawthorne Village is located at 859 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 661-8998 or visit hawthornevillageofbrandon.com. Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church will hold a free Easter breakfast and egg hunt on Sunday, April 21 at 9:15 a.m. The church is located at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. For more information, contact the church office at 689-3130. Lighthouse Freedom Center will host its annual Easter of Hope Outreach on Saturday, April 13 at 11
a.m. The event includes Riverview's largest egg hunt and a free bike giveaway. Celebrate Jesus with food, fun, face painting, candy, prizes, dance
contests, skits and more. All are welcome to this free family event. LRC is located at 7211 S. 78th St. in Riverview. For more information, visit www.lrcchurch.com. Living Savior Lutheran Church will host an Easter breakfast featuring generous portions of breakfast items on Sunday, April 21 at 8:30 a.m. Then at 9:15 a.m., children are invited to participate in an Easter egg hunt. The church is located at 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Next Level Church FishHawk will do a Helicopter Egg Drop at a secret location on Sunday, April 21. The drop will take place after the church’s Easter experience held at Newsome High School at 10 a.m. To receive a wristband and access to the egg drop
By Amanda Boston
location, you will need to attend the 10 a.m. experience. The egg drop is free and will also include bounce houses, face painting and other family-friendly activities. Registration is required for entry, visit www.2019eggdrop.com to register and for more information. Plant City's Annual City-wide Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon. The event features an Easter egg hunt, food, photos with the Easter bunny, inflatables and more. The egg hunt is free, but other activities cost a nominal fee. The egg hunt is for all youths ages 3-11, and children will be
divided into age groups. Two special ‘Golden Eggs’ will be hidden in each egg nest. Finders turn them in for a large Easter Basket after the hunt. The event is held at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, located at 2402 East Cherry St. in Plant City. More information can be found at https://www.plantcitygov.com/parksrec/page/city-wide-easter-egg-hunt. Redeemer Church will hold its annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday,
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April 20 at 9:30 a.m. for toddlers through fifth grade. The free event also includes refreshments, a special craft and worship. The church is located at 12404 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. For more information, visit www.redeemerriverview.org. South Bay Church will host an Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon. The egg hunt will feature more than 20,000 eggs, a food truck rally, music, prizes and the Easter Bunny. The church is located at 13498 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview. For more information, visit www.southbay.church. St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church Of Brandon will host its annual Easter egg hunt and festivities on Sunday, April 14 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on campus. The event will include games, crafts, cookie decorating food and of course, egg hunts featuring an indoor toddler room and an indoor glow in the dark hunt for older kids. The outdoor egg hunt will include a fenced-in area where those age 5 and under can hunt eggs with kids their size. Eggs will be color-coded to help children with allergies distinguish non-candy/peanut-free items. Kona Ice will also be on location selling some cool treats. The event is free but please register online at www.eventbrite.com/e/egg-hunt-2019tickets-58540521275. The church is located at 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon.
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April 2019
Page 45
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Courtesy Toyota Unveils New $30 Million State-Of-The-Art Dealership
By Michelle Caceres
After 21 means less time months and a $30 waiting for our cusmillion investment, tomers,” said Courtesy Toyota of Schepise. “It’s a Brandon, an win-win.” Asbury Automotive Nobody was Group, Inc. compamore impressed ny, celebrated the with the work area grand reopening of than assistant its showroom locatshop foreman ed at 9210 E. Terrence Wilson. A Adamo Dr. The 20-year employee new 91,000 sq. ft. at Courtesy showroom is locat- Courtesy Toyota of Brandon has a new facili- Toyota, he said the ed next door to its ty and improved experience for its customers. changes to the former facility. work environment have increased effiTo mark the occasion, executives ciency and morale. from Southeast Toyota Distributors and Love Toyotas but not the in-showAsbury Automotive Group joined local room experience? Courtesy Toyota has employees to celebrate the opening of rolled out the Push Start online car-buythe state-of-the-art building with a ribbon- ing platform, which provides customers a cutting ceremony that included speeches car-buying experience that allows them by Courtesy Toyota of Brandon general to select the new or used car they want manager Mike Schepise, Asbury CEO to purchase, trade in their old vehicle, David Hult and Southeast Toyota select their lender and terms, sign the Distributors vice president of sales and paperwork using DocuSign and even operations Jim McEachern. have the new purchase delivered to their “These changes are geared toward home. “Our employees are passionate enhancing the customer’s overall experiabout our brand and serving our cusence,” said Schepise. tomers and that is what makes the differImprovements have also been made ence,” said Holt. to employee work areas. Courtesy Toyota of Brandon’s sales Sixty-three air-conditioned technician department is open Monday-Friday 9 bays mean customer vehicles can be a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and serviced more quickly. The parts departSunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Its service department was constructed closer to the servment is open Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-7 ice areas where technicians can easily p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and access needed materials. Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. “These changes mean our employVisit www.courtesytoyota.com or call ees can work more efficiently and that 866-429-6135.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Sports 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Volume 18, Issue 4
Connection By Nick Nahas and Photos courtesy of Stewards Foundation
Three Newsome Students Will Compete In Crew Finals For Stewards Foundation the ability to coach him a couple Three Newsome High years, but I only have him for School students will compete one season.” in the crew state finals at Haney has bonded with Nathan Henderson Park in Madison Wood over the fact Sarasota in April. Drew that she recently moved from Bennett, Madison Wood and New York to Florida and also Eric Hill will row for the used to live in New Jersey, Stewards Foundation in the where Haney just moved from. Sculling and the Sweep State “It’s nice to have a mid-Atlantic Championships. northeastern person with me,” Bennett, a senior, has two Stewards Foundation team captain, This is Madison Wood’s first year Eric Hill is a freshman at Newsome said Haney. “We have a lot of state silver medals under his rowing with the Stewards High School. Drew Bennett. Foundation. the same lingo and slang that belt already. He has been rowall the local people make fun of, so it’s ing for the Tritons for four years and is one kind of fun and a bonding thing.” of the captains of the team, as voted by Eric Hill just started rowing for Haney his peers. He races in the lightweight catethis year. He is the freshman single-sculler gory. Junior Madison Wood, who moved of the team, meaning that he does a lot of to FishHawk just last year, and Eric Hill, a racing in a one-person boat. He also races freshman, will be competing in states for in other team boats. “It takes a special perthe very first time. son to row in a single and race in it at They are trained by first-year Rowing such a young age,” said Haney. Director of the Stewards Foundation Joe “The three rowers have three comHaney, who just moved to Tampa in pletely different ages, three different types September. Students from over 10 differJoe Haney is the first-year Rowing Courtney Schleifer is the assistant coach of purposes on the team, yet they are all ent high schools and middle schools from Director of the Stewards Foundation. for the Tritons. an equally big part of the team,” said the Tampa area make up the program. Haney has enjoyed coaching these Park at the Tampa Bypass Canal off of US Haney. “Our goal is to be as fast as possiThey train six days a week during this three Newsome athletes. “Drew really is a 301 in Temple Terrace. This current spring ble. I don’t know where that will place us, spring season. fine young gentleman,” said Haney. “I’m season they are competing in 1500-meter but our ultimate goal is to get on the The boathouse is located in Harney going to miss him next year. I wish I had sprint races. awards dock every race.”
April 2019
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
2nd Annual Praise In The Park Will Bring Music, Fun And The Community
By Kathy L. Collins
The second said, “If you like annual Praise in the music, you will get all Park will take place kinds of music in a on Saturday, April 13 Christian form at beginning at 3 p.m. Praise in the Park.” and lasting until 9 Trunzo added, “Last p.m. This is a free, year was an overChristian faith event, whelming success. which features live We are preparing for musical performancanother great day.” es, award winning Praise in the Park will food trucks, puppets, take place rain or The Second Annual Praise in the Park, face painting, stilt shine. Kelly said, “It is which promises to be bigger than better than last year, will take place in going to be awesome walkers and worldPlant City (from the Robert W. famous Plant City because of the Willaford Railroad Museum all the way strawberries. groups coming to Evers St.) on Saturday, April 13 from 3 to 9 p.m. Be a part of what was together.” Proceeds from the deemed one of the three best event will be donated The Common community events in 2018. to the Plant City Ground Movement is Pregnancy Center. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which offers This year, organizers, Frank and Campus Encourager Program in local Wenda Trunzo (owners of Krazy Kup, a schools. They place pastors in schools unique coffee house located in Plant to assist principals, staff and teachers. City) and Pastor Joe Kelly of The They offer a CGM Mass Choir Program, Common Ground Movement, have which unites high school students from joined forces to bring the community this public, private and charter schools to family friendly, fun event. sing in one choir. The Common Ground Last year’s Praise in the Park was Movement also has a tutoring program selected by the Plant City Chamber of which uses high school students to proCommerce as one of the three best vide tutoring in exchange for service community events. This year’s event hours. Finally, local youth are brought promises to be bigger and better with together for CGM Nights of Joy Services more live acts and an expanded venue. where they highlight youth bands, drama The main stage will be at the Robert W. teams, dance teams, singers and speakWillaford Railroad Museum on Palmer ers. Ave. Other stages will be located at If you are interested in becoming a areas from Palmer Ave. all the way to sponsor, please contact Trunzo at 789Evers St. 4227. If you would like to have a vendor There will be a wide genre of music spot for $50, please contact Kelly at from soul to gospel rock. Frank Trunzo 344-7361.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk
53-61
April 2019
Premier Radiation Oncology RibbonCutting
Volume 18, Issue 4
Premier Radiation Oncology hosted the Brandon Chamber of Commerce in its official ribbon-cutting ceremony in February. The event featured staff, physicians, local businesses and former patients including Tony Saladino Jr. – Brandon’s Citizen of the Year for 2019. Premier Radiation Oncology announced the exciting arrival of the newest radiation delivery equipment in the nation with their Halcyon linear accelerator built by Varian. As a radiation oncology clinic, Premier uses X-Rays to cure cancer. The Halcyon linear accelerator is the most precise machine in operation and allows them to visualize the entire area before receiving radiation treatment to ensure that it is both safe and effective on a daily basis. The team, led by Dr. Alexander Engelman – the number one Radiation Oncologist in the Tampa area, as peernominated in Tampa Magazine – and his dynamic staff of nurses, physicists, dosimetrists and radiation therapists demonstrated not only a commitment to the latest in technologic advancement but also a commitment to supporting patients and their families throughout their journey to healing. The center offers patients and
Ph: 657-2418 ‘Cheeky Blonde’ Ale or one of its other craft beers.
European Wax Center To Open In Brandon
European Wax Center, the nation’s leading provider of waxEuropean Wax Center staff. ing and brow families services, is expanding to Brandon Centre Leaven nutritionSouth, 1933 W. Lumsden Rd., next to Brewing al guidHome Goods. The grand opening is proBrings Home ance, jected for Monday, April 15. Gold Medal Jillian and KJ Lynch are the owners alternaSeveral well-experienced members For ‘Cheeky of Leaven Brewing in Riverview. tive and Their Cheeky Blonde Ale recently Blonde’ Ale of the staff from the downtown Tampa won a Gold Medal in a ‘Best Florida complelocation will be transferring to see this Jillian Beer’ competition. mentary treatment recommendaLynch and hus- new center off to a top-performing start. tions and encourages engagement with Local residents that are interested in band, KJ Lynch, the owners of Leaven faith, family and community. signing up for free wax services as modBrewing in Riverview, recently were the More than just focused on beating els during training week in early April can recipients of a gold medal for its ‘Cheeky cancer, Premier Radiation Oncology has call 793-2000 to sign up. Blonde’ Ale. It was won at Tampa Bay established a truly unique commitment to European Wax Center has set the Beer Week’s annual ‘Best Florida Beer’ how these therapies impact the communiindustry standard. Many Brandon resicompetition. ty at large, in particular the environment. dents have been visiting the downtown Medals were announced at an event Through their partnership with a local suscenter for years, enjoying the benefit of called ‘Brewer’s Ball’ hosted at tainability advising group, ShiftCo, all can15-minute services close to their offices. Waterworks Park in downtown Tampa. cer treatments for 2019 will be carbonVisit www.waxcenter.com for more Jillian said, “Leaven is excited about neutral. To the center's knowledge, no information. this win, primarily because we focus on other cancer center in the nation can traditional, brewed to style beers and the claim to have zero-footprint cancer theraFlorida Risk Partners Has New Auto ‘Cheeky Blonde’ was one of the first craft py. Services Practice Leader beers we introduced to our tap room in Premier Radiation Oncology is locatJason Caballero has joined Florida Riverview.” ed at 3140 S. Falkenburg Rd. in Risk Partners as the Auto Services Come in to Leaven Brewing, located Riverview. Call 734-8911. at 11238 Boyette Rd. in Riverview to try
Continued on Next Page
Best Oysters Around - Always Fresh!
Page 50 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 4
high quality To qualify, a building supcompany must have plies and matebeen in business for By Michelle Colesanti rials in at least three years Practice Leader. In ribbon-cutting last month with both Bermuda and and generated revhis role, Jason will the Riverview and Valrico FishHawk the Caribbean, enue by January 1, work with clients Chambers of Commerce. In addition and Global 2015. Additionally, it ranging from body to recently opening their new location Sales' dedicamust be owned or shops to car washat 16765 FishHawk Blvd., in the tion to providing majority managed by es, providing them Winn Dixie shopping plaza across island-specific an FSU alumnus for with insurance and from Newsome High School, Dr. Bob materials, prothree consecutive risk management Lutz also recently partnered with fessional years prior to nomisolutions to reduce Inspired Mobile Fitness, utilizing a design servicnation. their total cost of portion of their office for personal es, efficient View the full list risk. In addition, he training equipment. The newest shipping and of Seminole 100 honwill be responsible addition to Motion ChiroTherapy will consolidation, orees at semiJeff Collins, President of Global Sales, was for the recruiting now be massage therapy. To schedand superior named as one of the 2019 Seminole 100 in nole100.fsu.edu. and staffing of his ule an appointment for chiropractic March. customer servpractice. Jason or massage services, call 793-7791. ice. While many businesses on the list Custom Cleanups comes to FRP Visit www.MotionChiroTherapy.com are relatively new, Global Sales has been Partner With Cleaning For A Reason with over 10 for more information on all available in business for 40 years, demonstrating FishHawk area Custom Cleanups is Jason Caballero, Florida treatments. years of experidedicated to making family life Risk Partners’ new Auto ence of calling on Services Practice Leader. easier and focuses on great the automotive Tampa-Bay Building Supplies quality services at reasonable industry. By combining his personal expe- Company Honored By Florida rates. rience with the cutting edge technology State University Custom Cleanups, LLC has platform FRP offers, Caballero is sure to Global Sales, a Gibsonton-based teamed up with Cleaning for a deliver a great experience to his clients. building supplies business, was recogReason, an international nonWhile he is not captive to automotive nized on the 2019 during Florida State profit servicing women with canservices, that will be his primary focus. University’s Second Annual Seminole cer. Custom Cleanups is helping Caballero can be reached at 571-9591 100 Celebration on March 2 at FSU’s women battling cancer by cleanext. 112. University Center Club ing two homes per month for in Doak Campbell four consecutive months at no Family-Owned Stadium. charge. The only requirement is Naffco Flooring & The 2019 to be within the company’s existInteriors Has Served Seminole 100, hosted ing service area. The Area Since 1937 by the Jim Moran For information, visit Stacy Washburn Photography Family-owned and Institute for Global www.facebook.com/customoperated Naffco Entrepreneurship at the solid revenue growth well beyond the cleanupsllc/ or visit www.cleaningforareaFlooring & Interiors has FSU College of Business start-up phase. son.org for more information. been serving homes in the Tampa Bay in partnership with the FSU Alumni "We are deeply gratified about being area with flooring, shutters, blinds and Association and EY, recognized the 100 named to the Seminole 100. This honor is Stacy Washburn Photography cabinetry needs since 1937. It has been fastest-growing businesses owned by entirely about the efforts of our dedicated Receives 2019 Couple's Choice Award providing top-quality products and servicFlorida State alumni. team, and the trust shown to us by our Stacy Washburn Photography es for more than 75 years. loyal customers. I would like to recently received the esteemed 2019 Naffco & Interiors offer great express my sincere gratitude to Couple’s Choice award based on outcustomer service experience from both for making this honor possistanding experience working with real its design consultants on the ble," commented Jeff Collins, newlyweds. WeddingWire features more showroom floor to the installation President of Global Sales. than three million reviews, and these craftsmen in your home. Highly “The remarknotable vendors all received prompt, skilled and trained craftsmen, who able success of reliable and quality feedback. Not are professional and courteous, these business only are these hardworking and disare prepared to meet all your inteowners reflects tinguished wedding professionals, rior remodel and decorating well on the universuch as Stacy Washburn needs. sity, and we are Photography, a fundamental part of There are three showrooms in incredibly proud the wedding planSouth Tampa, Carrollwood and that they are ning process for Brandon. Florida State engaged couples, The Brandon location is at alumni,” said Melissa Roberts, but they help make 1920 W. Brandon Blvd. managing director of the Jim WeddingWire a Hours are Monday-Friday Moran Institute. “Seminole trusted source for Motion ChiroTherapy recently celebrated its new location with from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 100 is our way of recognizing a ribbon-cutting. wedding photografrom 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday entrepreneurial excellence phy. from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Global Sales was ranked 79th with a among our alumni, and it helps fulfill Call 695-8067 compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of Florida State’s goal of becoming a or visit www.stacy15.67 percent. Ribbon-Cutting Held To Celebrate preeminent university that embraces washburnphotograGlobal Sales' recognition by Florida Motion ChiroTherapy’s New Location entrepreneurship, creativity and innoCustom Cleanups and phy.com. State University reflects the demand for Cleaning for a Reason Motion ChiroTherapy celebrated a vation across campus.”
Business Column Continued.............
April 2019
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 18, Issue 4
Winthrop Arts To Host Silent Disco To Support The Arts This April
Don’t just make a new years resolution to get yourself in shape in 2019.
Winthrop called the Winthrop Arts will hold its Arts Mobile Art first fundraising Factory. This is a event this April. program that proSilent Disco will vides free art classbe held on es to children who Saturday, April live in Wimauma 13 from 8 to 11 and Ruskin. What p.m. at The makes the Barn in Winthrop Arts Winthrop Arts will hold Silent Disco on Saturday, Mobile Art Factory Winthrop, April 13 at The Barn at Winthrop. located at unique is that art 11349 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. instruction is taken to the children. Tickets start at $30. Supply is limited. Currently, Winthrop Arts partners with Tickets to this 21 and older event can be Wimauma Elementary and Hispanic purchased at Eventbrite and through the Services Council in Wimauma to offer the Winthrop Arts website at free art classes. www.winthroparts.org. Hamilton said, “Winthrop Arts is a Silent Disco requires dancers to wear community-based arts organization that wireless headsets that pick up music has evolved over time from simply preinstead of a sound system. This allows senting an annual arts festival to a fully attendees to choose from three DJ stafunctioning community arts organization. tions at the switch of a button. Listeners We offer fine arts classes at the Art will only hear the music they selected Factory in Riverview for both adults and being played on their headset. This children. Each summer, we offer several makes for a personalized and fun experione-week summer camps. The Mobile Art ence. Factory is our outreach program, and of In addition to the music, there will be course we continue to present the signaa cash bar and food trucks. ture Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Matthew Hamilton, President of the Market.” Winthrop Arts Board of Visionaries said, The 11th Annual Winthrop Arts “In deciding on what should be our first Festival and Market will be held on fundraiser, we wanted to bring a fun Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March event that has been taking place in down- 31 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in Winthrop town Tampa out to East Hillsborough Common, located behind Boca and County.” Organizations such as the Ciccio’s in beautiful Winthrop in Tampa Museum of Art and the Florida Riverview. Aquarium have had similar events. For information on Silent Disco and Proceeds from Silent Disco will help all that Winthrop Arts has to offer, visit fund a Winthrop Arts outreach program www.winthroparts.org or call 758-5161.
Remember your insurance should be reviewed and kept “healthy” just like you!
By Kathy L. Collins
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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2019 Summer Camps Offer Many Options To Keep Active & Engaged It’s that time of the year when parents are beginning to wonder how they will keep the kids busy during the dog days of summer. What can you do to keep the kids entertained? Where can they go to try new things, learn how to swim, meet new friends and have great fun? There are many options to choose from locally that will fit the bill. The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull out section. Maybe your kids would like to spend the summer ‘horsing around.’ R&R Ranch offers that opportunity, and not just to learn to horseback ride, but also about the care of the horses. At Music Showcase, music and theatre take the stage and so can your child. Musicals such as Willy Wonka and Frozen Jr. will be offered, and your child can hold starring roles in these and other popular musicals offered from the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up. For your actor or musician, don’t forget to also check out Firehouse Cultural Center and Patel q
SI Public L um L owry ib Park Zoo• Din osaur World and M
Conservatory, which also offer fun and exciting ideas. The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps which mix fun along with great learning experiences. With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone. Mathnasium offers ways to keep your student’s math skills from getting rusty in a fun environment. Do you have a child interested in cooking? Check out Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Cooking Camps for Kids through Teens. With weekly themes utilizing agespecific activities and field trips that make BSAC unique, your kids will enjoy every moment of summer camp. Specialty camps for Baseball (Ostingers), Legos (Bricks4Kidz), Art (Center Place) and Tennis (FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club) also offer great opportunities. For dates, prices and registration information on these and more, turn the page and enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Did we miss one? Let us know by emailing subject line ‘Summer Camp’ to michelle@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add to our full listing online.
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Spots Filling Fast For Outdoor Adventure At Tampa YMCA Summer Camp
Staff Report
This is the year to experience YMCA Summer Camp. Registration is now open for the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA’s newly enhanced summer camp program. Y Summer Camp 2019 offers children a day camp curriculum full of fun, educational activities. Activity specialists will lead campers through various experiences each day including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters,
Enjoy Archery and many other activities this summer at YMCA Summer Camp. The camp offerings vary by location.
horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more. The fun and unique experiences give Y campers an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime. In Y Summer Camp, kids are in a welcoming environment where they can belong, build relationships, develop character and discover their potential. New for 2019, parents now have the option to add on before- and after-care activities which include swimming, horseback riding, sports and high ropes. There are also various specialty camps where campers will be immersed in their selected specialty in addition to enjoying traditional camp fun. Activities and specialty options vary by location.
Once again, Hillsborough County Public Schools has committed to providing free breakfast and lunch as part of the Summer Food Program. The program runs from Monday, June 3 – Friday, August 2 and is open to all kids in the community ages 18 and under, including Y campers. To find out the time frames when free breakfast and lunch are available, contact your local Y. Visit https://www.tampaymca.org/locations for locations. Spots are filling fast at 14 locations across Hillsborough and East Pasco counties, including four sites for the Y’s The First Tee of Tampa Bay program. (www.thefirstteetampabay.org/informationsummer-camps/). Experience summer camp locally at: Campo Family YMCA in Valrico (6841371), North Brandon Family YMCA (685-5402), Spurlino Family YMCA at Big Bend Rd. in Riverview (228-9622) and YMCA Camp Cristina in Riverview (6778400). To ensure your kids stay engaged socially, physically and academically throughout the summer, register today at www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.
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Registration Open For Patel Conservatory Summer Camps And Classes
By Leslie Farrell
tions will be held Thursday, March 28, Thursday, April 18 and Friday, May 17. Dancers age seven and older will attend placement classes to determine which classes are most appropriate. Those younger than seven are not required to attend a placement class. Registration for auditions is required by visiting www.strazcenter.org/auditions or by calling 222-1040. Nearly $200,000 in scholRegistration is arships will be awarded for now open for Patel Patel Conservatory camps Conservatory dance, and classes this summer. music and theater Scholarship applications are summer camps and available online at www.strazclasses, which begin center.org/financialaid; the prithe week of Monday, Patel Conservatory is now regis- ority deadline is June 3. tering for its summer camps and Monday, April 8. Nearly 70 camps classes. Some will require auditions. The accredited Patel and classes are offered, most with performance opportuni- Conservatory offers classes in dance, music and theater for students of all ages ties, for students of all ages and abilities. Camps and classes vary from jazz dance and experience levels. Each year, the to jazz music, from Shakespeare to Annie Patel Conservatory and the Straz Center’s arts education programs enrich to Comedy on Broadway, and from the lives of more than 50,000 students in Ukelele Camp to Youth Opera Camp. A our classrooms, on our stages and complete line up is online at www.patelthrough the community. conservatory.org. Events, days, dates, times and prices Some summer camps and classes, are subject to change without notice. which are held for all ages and abilities, Patel Conservatory is located at the require auditions. Music auditions will be Straz Center for the Performing Arts, held Saturday, March 30, Saturday, April 1010 N. W.C. Macinnes Pl. in Tampa. 13 and Tuesday, May 21. Theater audi-
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Game Show Themes Add Up To Summer Camp Fun At 2019 Camp BSAC
Staff Report
BSAC offers a game show themed summer experience for campers this year.
BSAC Campers can once again look forward to exciting themed weeks of fun camp experiences. BSAC’s ‘Who’s Got Game’ theme is based around game shows. Have you always wanted to be a contestant in your favorite TV game show? Now you can. Each themed week runs from Monday to Friday (except week 5 when there is no camp on the 4th of July). Week 1: SURVIVOR - June 3 – June 7; Week 2: ESCAPE ROOM - June 10 – June 14; Week 3: THE AMAZING RACE - June 17 – June 21; Week 4: FEAR FACTOR - June 18 – June 22; Week 5: MINUTE TO WIN IT - July 1 – July 5 *Closed July 4th; Week 6: DOUBLE DARE - July 8 – July 12; Week 7: WIN, LOSE, DRAW - July 15 – July 19; Week
8: WIPE OUT - July 22 – July 26; Week 9: FAMILY FEUD - July 29 – August 2 and Week 10: THE REUNION SHOW - August 5 – August 9. Registration Fees are $45 per child or $85 per family. It includes one camp T-shirt and one backpack per camper. The cost for camp per child is $150 full a full day (7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.); $90 week for half day – either 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 1 p.m.6:30 p.m. If you want to bring your child for drop in days, the cost is $40 for the day from 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Drop in days must be selected and paid in advance to reserve and are non-refundable. Field trips are offered throughout the season at extra cost and are optional. A Summer Camp Open House will be held on Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Get a preview of the summer experience: a day in the life of a camper. Be a contestant on your favorite TV game shows. You will tour BSAC, swim and play games in the pool, meet the summer camp mentors, have a family fun day with summer camp games and activities. There will be a DJ and vendors. BSA is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. For more information, call 689-0908 or visit www.mybsacorg.
SUMMER CAMP AT
T.L.C.’ S GYPSY HAVEN!
Enjoy The Summer Scene 2019 At The Florida Academy of Performing Arts
Family-Friendly Summer Camp Expo
Full and half day camps are available for kids ages 5 and up at The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase. Musical Theatre productions of Willy Wonka (June 3-14), Once Upon A Mattress (June 10-21), Frozen Jr. (June 17-28), The Wizard of Oz Jr. (July 8-19), Once on This Island (July 15-26), and The Lion King Jr. (July 22-August 2) will all take place this summer for ages 5 and up. Campers will participate in various classes each day that are customized to fit their appropriate age groups and will experience, music, acting, singing, dance, creative art, rock camp and more. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 490-2787 or visit faopa.org.
The FamilyFriendly Summer Camp Expo (Brandon Edition) will take place on Saturday, April 6 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Hillsborough Community College, 10451 Nancy Watkins Dr. in Tampa. There will be fun for the entire family to learn about summer camps being offered in Brandon, Tampa, Riverview, Lithia/FishHawk, Valrico, Southshore and surrounding areas. Learn about VBS programs as well as STEM, Arts & Crafts, Dance, Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Sports, Sewing & more. The first 250 families get a giveaway bag with goodies. Kids will enjoy bounce houses, face painting, free crafts, a dodge ball arena, princesses and superheroes. Enjoy Easter fun with a Scavenger Hunt, photos with the Easter Bunny and a petting zoo. Register for free tickets at https://familyfriendlytampabay.com/.
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Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.
NOW REGISTERING Limited Space (8 spots weekly) Call TODAY!
Session 1 June 3-7 (M-F)
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Session 3 July 29-Aug 2 (M-F)
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For ages 7 - 99 Weekly Themed Horse Back Riding Camps Hands On Experience & Education
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Bricks 4 Kidz Offers LEGO® Summer Camps
Bricks 4 Kidz is back with awesome LEGO® Summer Camps being offered all over the Brandon, Riverview and Valrico areas. Join in for a different theme each week such as Fortnite, Pokemon, Star Wars, Minecraft and much more. Each week campers will be building signature Bricks 4 Kidz robotic LEGO® models, very popular LEGO® mosaics and 3D LEGO® sculptures, as well as playing fun games and creating arts and crafts projects they will get to take home. At the end of each week, every camper will get to take home their very own LEGO® minifigure. Each day and week will be a brand new LEGO® adventure you won’t want to miss! The schedule for the camps being offered at nearby locations is as follows: We Rock The Spectrum Monday to Friday, June 10–14: LEGO® Gamer’s World July 1 – July 5: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup (Single Day Pricing:
No July 4 Camp) Monday to Thursday, July 15– July 18: LEGO® STAR WARS/MINECRAFT Mashup - (Four Day Pricing). The Venue In Riverview Monday to Friday, June 17– June 21: LEGO®
Summer Theme Mashup Monday to Friday, August 5 August 9: Bricks 4 Girls LEGO® Camp with Girls With Confidence
FishHawk Aquatic Center Monday to Friday, June 3 – June 7: LEGO® Gamer’s World Monday to Friday, July 8 – July 12: LEGO® STAR
WARS/MINECRAFT Mashup Monday to Friday, August 5 August 9: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup Sign up at www.bricks4kidz.com/floridatampa or call 545-4282.
Center Place Fine Arts Offer Summer Art Camp To Brighten The Day
Who knew that art could be so much fun? This summer, register your 7-13 year old to discover their love of painting, drawing, pottery and more. Classes are offered Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include Art Mural, Animal Paintings, Pencil Drawings Cruise Around the World, West & Wild Canvases, Ceramic Sculpture, Recycled Art, Landscape Drawings, Paper Sculptures, Space Art, Mixed Media and more. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. For more information or to register, visit www.center-
placebrandon.org or call 685-8888.
Spend The Summer At R&R Ranch Horsin’ Around
Summer Campers will enjoy riding and caring for horses at family-owned R&R Ranch. R&R Ranch specializes in safe horse experiences for the young child and for beginners. The name stands for ‘Rest’ and ‘Relaxation’. Pony parties, field trips, trail riding lessons, horse boarding, playgroups and horse camps are all offered. Summer Camp runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Monday to Friday. Early and late pickup can be arranged. Camp runs Monday, June 3 through Friday, August 9.
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Student’s ages 6 to 12 years are invited to attend. The cost is $225 per week. Campers will enjoy: a daily trail ride or lesson, pony painting, hayrides, lots of games, snowball fight, learning how to care for horses and farm animals, bounce castle, lunch and disco in the air conditioned camp house. There is a petting zoo with baby bunnies, chicks, ducks and baby pigs. Kids will also get to enjoy arts and crafts and more. Safety helmets will be provided. R&R Ranch is located at 9805 Bryant Rd. in Lithia. Visit www.rrranchlithia.com.
Learn Baseball From The Pros At Ostingers Baseball Academy Summer Camp
Ostingers Baseball Academy will hold its baseball camp this summer to give your child a better understanding of the game of baseball, through instruction, drills
KIDS
Summer Camps (Ages 6-11) 10:30am - 1:00pm
and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp. Ostingers staff is made up of all former professional players who instruct, teaching the game from the ground up. The camp is not a full day camp with video games and indoor activities. Jim Osting is a baseball instructor with 12 years of professional baseball playing experience including two years of Major League Experience (Padres and Brewers). Patrick Ryan is a baseball instructor with eight years professional pitching experience. Kris Wilken is the Head Baseball Coach at Bloomingdale High School and has six years of professional playing experience. College and high school players trained by Ostingers Baseball Academy will assist your child throughout their camp experience. Additional help is provided from Ostinger players current and past to make the campers experience ‘one of a kind.’
June 3-6 June 10-13 June 17-20 June 24-27 July 8-11 July 15-18 July 22-25 July 29-Aug 1 Aug 5-8
TWEEN’S & TEENS
Summer Camps (Ages 11-15) 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Brandon’s Big Green “EggQuarters”
With the instructors and the staff, the ratio per camper is around 6:1. This ratio allows for added reps for each player and helps to break up the groups in age appropriate format. Camp weeks run Monday to Friday, June 3-7, July 8-12 and July 29-August 2. Camps run half days from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Camps are held Monday to Wednesday at Ostingers Baseball Academy, 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and Thursday and Friday at the FishHawk Sports Complex fields located at 16120 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia (for games and other activities). The cost is $180 (sibling discounts available). For more information or to register, call 737-3000 or visit www.OstingBaseball.com.
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Is Cooking Up Some Summer Fun
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Summer Camps are a great way to learn new skills in the kitchen, create tasty recipes, and meet lots of new
friends. The only things you need to be prepared are closed toe shoes and a restraint for shoulder length hair. All of the ingredients, tools and even the fun are included. Students are taught how to properly use real kitchen tools, knives and appliances safely under adult supervision. Students come away with the confidence to prepare dishes that are age appropriate and tasty. The goal is to encourage your child to be a help in the kitchen and to have fun while building a lifetime of good skills. Cooking Camps for kids ages 611 will take place from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. daily and the tween’s and teen’s Summer Camps, ages 11-15 will take place from 2-4 p.m. Camps will take place weekly for four days and run from Monday, June 3 through Thursday, August 2. Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is located at Brandon Crossroads, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 6532418 or visit www.rollingpinonline.com.
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Hoop It Up At FishHawk Fellowship’s Basketball Camp
Take your game to the next level. Develop your skills and have fun doing it. Work daily to improve every player’s technical abilities. Camp is suitable for everyone from beginners to elite players. FishHawk Fellowship Church is partnering with Alpha & Omega Sports, Inc. Its staff designs intense, fun training sessions. Camp will run Monday, June 24 to Friday, June 28 for grades 2-5 and Monday, July 22 to Friday, July 26 for grades 6-12. Both camps will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at FishHawk Fellowship Church, 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. The cost is $100 per student. For more information, visit www.fishhawkfc.org/basketball.
Tennis Camp Weeks Offered In FishHawk
FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club will offer camp this summer for ages 6 to 16. Camp is for beginning and intermediate skill levels. Choose your weeks between Monday, June 3 and Friday, August 9. Full day camp available or half days from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. or 1:30-4
July 1 - July 5 (No Camp on Thursday, July 4), Art Studio; Week 6: July 8 - July 12, Art Studio II; Week 7: July 15 – July 19, Cartooning & Animation; Week 8: July 22 – July 26, Robotics-Tech Fee for Robotics: $50; Week 9: July 29 – August 2, Robotics -Tech Fee for Robotics: $50. For more information, call 645-7651 or visit www.firehouseculturalcenter.org.
p.m. are available. Camp will be offered at 15921 Courtside View Dr. in Lithia. Register online at http://fishhawkranchtennisclub.com or call 681-4000.
Musical Theater And Much More Offered At Firehouse Cultural Center The Firehouse Cultural Center will be offering Summer Camp through the summer. It is located at 101 1st Ave. NE in Ruskin. Week 1: June 3 – June 7 - Musical Theater I; Week 2: June 10 – June 14; Musical Theater II Week 3: June 17 – June 21; Musical Theater III; Week 4: June 24 – June 28; Musical Theater IV Week 5:
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Motorized LEGO® and LEGO® Art Projects
Full Week Camps Half Day and Full Day Options Ages 5-12
Camp locations all over Brandon • Riverview • Valrico Lithia • Fishhawk Early Bird Registration and Sibling Discounts To find out more and to register please visit
www.bricks4kidz.com/florida-tampa
or call us at 813-545-4282
Bricks 4 Kidz is back with awesome LEGO® Summer camps being offered all over the Brandon, Riverview, and Valrico areas! Join us for a different theme each week such as Fortnite®, Pokemon® Star Wars®, Minecraft®, and much more!
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McDaniels, center director at Mathnasium of Brandon and Mathnasium @home. Mathnasium's @home program is an additional benefit for students who would like to keep up their skills but are traveling. You can take Mathnasium anywhere with Mathnasium @home. Mathnasium will help parents choose a Summer Power Workout Plan, such as numerical fluency, fractions, multiplication fluency, problem solving, algebra readiness, geometry readiness and so much more based on a diag-
Combat Dreaded Summer Slide With Mathnasium Of Brandon Or Mathnasium @Home
Kids can power up this summer with Mathnasium of Brandon or Mathnasium @home. The summer slide is real and students can lose over two months of mathematical skills every summer. Mathnasium can help prevent that with its Power Up summer programs. Summer is an ideal time for student's math ability to skyrocket. Without the pressure of school and extracurricular activities, students are able to focus and learn in a relaxed atmosphere, and they will love coming to Mathnasium as FUN is built in to the mathematical activities along with celebrating successes and fun prizes for outstanding attendance
and growth. "Take advantage of the more relaxed environment of summer break which is a golden opportunity to improve math performance whether your student is struggling or just wanting to dig deeper into their math studies," suggest Becky
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nostic of the student. Experts say that the effects of a summer learning program, such as Mathnasium's, will make a positive difference for student's moving forward. Call 655-MATH (6284) or visit www.mathnasium.com/brandon/promotions to schedule your student's risk free diagnostic at your favorite neighborhood center or at home with the Mathnasium @home program and help your student to Power Up this summer. Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 E Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico (Plaza Bella shopping center).
SUMMER CAMP 2019
JUNE 3 - AUGUST 2
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Make Summer Days Happy Days At Happy Day Summer Camp
Weekly themes that are fun for your kids ages 1 to 10 will include many activities that will keep them moving and having a great summer. The days will include plenty of arts & crafts, friendships as well as academic summer fun. Music, sports & games, character and manners, bouncy house and giant slide with outdoor water play round out the fun. Kids will enjoy an ice cream social and much more. The cost is $100 per week for upcoming K5 to 5th grade campers. This includes all field trips and weekly activities such as bowling, skating, AMC Movies, state parks, MOSI, public library, Publix, Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo, Dinosaur World and more. Happy Day Summer Camp is open from Monday to Friday from 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. and is located at 722 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-0028.
Kids Club! Weekly Summer Camp Includes Field Trips
Sign up today for $110 per week. The price includes two weekly field trips and all activities.
Your kids, ages K5-5th grade, will enjoy arts & crafts, friendship play, academic summer fun, music, sports & games, character & manners, ice cream social, pizza parties, bouncy house and giant slide and outdoor water play at Morning Glory Summer Camp . Field trips include bowling, skating, state parks, movies, Medieval Times Theater, Pump It Up, MOSI, Bricks 4 Kidz, Lowry Park Zoo,
ACH Video Arcade, Great Explorations Children’s Museum, Florida Aquarium and more. Morning Glory is located at 6001 Christy Ln. (off Bloomingdale near Rt. 301). For more information, call 628-0541 or visit www.MorningGloryPreschool.org.
Summer Camp at
Camps Dates:
June 3rd through
August 9th Sign Up for
We specialize in horse experiences for Summer Camp the young child and beginner riders. Space is limited. • Daily Hay Rides Only $2 2 5 per wk. (Mon. thru Fri. 9am - 5pm) Ages 6-12 • Horse Education We Also Offer: Field Trips, Pony Parties, Play Groups & More 9805 Bryant Rd Lithia, FL 33547 Visit us on the web: rrranchlithia.com
For more info call 81 3-6 53-381 9
Summer Camps At Adventures Archery
Kids from the ages of 8-16 can spend some time this summer honing their skills at archery. Learn about range safety, archery skills and arrow fletching. Summer camps will take place during three sessions from 10 a.m.-12 Noon daily. The sessions are Monday to Wednesday, June 17-1,; July 8-10 and July 22-24. Camp will be available at both locations-2210 W. US Hwy. 301 in Tampa and 2332 E. Edgewood Dr. in Lakeland. The cost is $100 per child with equipment rental, $60 per child who does not need to rent equipment. Space is limited. You can preregister by calling 664-8700 or 863-937-8968. Visit http://www.adventuresarchery.com/.
TechPlayzone Offers Hands-On Technology Enrichment In Fun & Safe Environment
TechPlayzone has led the charge for engaging young people in science, technology, engineering and math
since 2005. With an increased demand for hands-on technology enrichment, TechPlayzone has continued to provide families with an excellent curriculum and fun in a safe environment for all kids. Give your child a high-tech advantage at TechPlayzone this summer. TechPlayzone is pleased to offer 4 weeks (July 8, 15, 22 and 29) of STEM Camp for elementary and middle school students ages 7-13. Middle school camp is 8 a.m.-12 Noon and elementary school camp is 9 a.m.-12 Noon. For the elementary camp, TechPlayzone is honored to partner with FIRST LEGO League at Hillsborough Community College to power the FIRST LEGO League Camp. Every week of TechPlayzone
camp includes: LEGO Mindstorms Robotics, Minecraft for Jr. Engineers Hands-On Science Experiments, Scratch Game Design. It will take place at HCC Brandon Campus, located at 10414 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. For middle school (6-8th grade) students, TechPlayzone offers engi-
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neering enrichment. Using TechPlayzone’s formula of hands-on project-based learning with cutting edge technology, students can work at their own pace or work as a team with the assistance of facilitators and staff members to complete one of the engineering projects each week. Register for your choice of Minecraft Mods and Raspberry Pi, LEGO EV3 with RobotC, App Inventor App Development and Programmable Drones. For more information, contact Desh Bagley at 444-2267 or techplayzone@gmail.com.
ence, learning to ride as well as how to groom the horses. Camp takes place Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. starting Monday, June 3. Your kids will enjoy field trips each Friday they are at camp. With limited space (eight spots weekly), you will want to call early.
Summer Camp At T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven
T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven is now registering for summer camp. The farm has been in business for more than 12 years offering after-school riding lessons, horseback riding camps, monthly horse leasing, pony parties and more. Your kids, from age 7 and up, will have a lot of fun enjoying weekly themed horseback riding camps. They will receive hands-on experi-
Located 10 minutes from FishHawk, T.L.C. Gypsy Haven is located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia. For more information, please call Tammi at 842-4236 or visit www.tlcsfarms.com.
Florida Hawks FC Summer Camps For Soccer Players The Florida Hawks FC will be holding summer camps throughout the season. The Club is set up to develop great people by teaching life lessons on and off the field. Strength & Conditioning Camp Strength and Conditional Camp For Soccer Players will take place Monday through Friday, June 24 to August 2 from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Boys and girls born between 2001 and 2012 are welcome to attend. The camp will feature age appropriate physical, technical and tactical instruction, speed, agility, explosiveness/reaction, power, strength, conditioning as well as daily soccer skills. There will be a professional and certified coaching staff as well as an athletic trainer onsite. Your child must bring a readiness to push their strength and cardiovascular limits and a desire to learn soccer skills. The first two weeks of camp will take place at the Randall Fields then move to the soccer fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex. Soccer Fun With Coach Juan You can sign your child up for Soccer Fun, which will include age appropriate technical and tactical instruction, small sided games, daily 5 v 5 competitions, daily soccer tennis and soccer golf competitions.
Staff Report
Camp will take place from Monday to Friday, July 8-12 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. for boys and girls born between 2007 and 2012. For those born between 2002 and 2006, camp will take place Monday to Friday, July 15-19 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. There will be a professional coaching staff as well as athletic trainer on-site. The cost is $195 if registered before Monday, April 15 and $215 if registered after that. Camp takes place at the Soccer Fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex in Lithia. Goalkeeper Summer Camp If your child is interested in being a goalkeeper, there is a camp specifically for them. It features daily sessions of specific, age appropriate goalkeeper skills. It will take place Monday, July 29 through Friday, August 2 and is for male and female goalkeepers in age groups 8U-10U, 11U-12U, 13U and up and college level. Camp begins at 8 a.m. and runs through 2:30 p.m. The cost is $495. All campers need to bring cleats, shin guards, a ball and a water bottle. Contact Juan DeBrigard, Director of Coaching at doc@floridahawksfc or 754-244-3016. To register, visit www.floridahawksfc.com.
SOCCER FUN WITH COACH JUAN Boys and Girls
Boys and Girls
born between 2012 and 2007
born between 2006 and 2002
Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex Lithia FL
Soccer Fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex Lithia FL
July 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 2019 9.00 am to 1.00 pm
July 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 2019 9.00 am to 1.00 pm
$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2019 • $215.00 if registered after April 15, 2019 CAMP FEATURES: Age appropriate technical and tactical instruction • Small sided games • Daily 5 v 5 Competitions • Daily Soccer Tennis and Soccer Golf Competitions • Professional coaching staff • Athletic Trainer onsite • Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt Registration:www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016
GOALKEEPER SUMMER CAMP
STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING CAMP
Age Groups: 8U – 10U, 11U - 12U,13U and Up, College Level July 29,30, 31, August 1, 2, 2019 8.00 am to 2.30 pm
Monday through Friday, starting June 24 until August 2, 2019 8.00 am to 10.00 pm
Fishhawk Sports Complex, Lithia, FL
First two weeks: Randall Fields, then Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex, Lithia FL
Investment: $495.00
$50.00 for 5 days • $100.00 for 10 days • $150.00 for 15 days
CAMP FEATURES: Daily session of specific, age appropriate Goalkeeper Skills & tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position Daily Video Session on technical and tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position Daily “Only a Goalkeeper can do it” Competition, Crossbar Challenge Competition & Goalkeeper War Competition Experienced Coaching Staff and optimal Coach to Player Ratio Athletic Trainer onsite • Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt Registration: www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016
CAMP FEATURES: Age appropriate physical, technical and tactical instruction • Speed • Agility Explosiveness/Reaction • Power Strength • Conditioning• Daily Soccer skills Professional and Certified coaching staff • Athletic Trainer onsite Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt
Male / Female Goalkeepers
Boys and Girls born between 2012 and 2001
Registration: www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Kaneile Thomas, Camp Director | k.thomas@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 561 685 1328
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Volume 18, Issue 4
4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Railfest 2019 Set For This Month In Historic Downtown Plant City The Robert W. a.m. The 2018 Golden Willaford Railroad Spike Award recipient Museum will host was Bill McDaniel, the Railfest 2019 on City Manager of Plant Saturday, April 13 City. There is also a from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Little Spike Award given The museum is locatto a young rail fan. Last ed at 102 N. Palmer year’s recipient was St. in downtown Plant Dakota Lovern. Both City. Railfest is a free McDaniel and Lovern community event. will be on hand to conIf you are a railroad enthusiast, you This is the Fifth will not want to miss Railfest 2019 on gratulate this year’s Saturday, April 13 at the Robert W. Annual Railfest. winners. Willaford Railroad Museum in historic Attendees will enjoy a According to downtown Plant City. fun-filled day comLubrano, “There will be plete with live entertainment, train rides two major announcements made at this on the miniature RWWRR train, bounce year’s Railfest. One will explain our house, balloon artist, stilt walker, face expansion into the ‘Freight Tower’ building painting, sidewalk chalk and free goodie for newly acquired displays. The other will bags while they last. Everyone will be be about the ‘worldwide’ visibility of the greeted by ‘Mr. Henry B. Plant’ played by museum and train related traffic through Michael Norton. the internet.” “This is our way to reach out to the The museum has a wonderful discommunity,” said Benito (Benny) Lubrano play of railroad memorabilia including a Jr., Executive Director of the Robert W. completely restored Seaborn Air Line No. Willaford Railroad Museum Society, Inc. 5735 caboose. “We want to give the community a free, The museum is open Tuesday fun filled day,” added Lubrano. through Friday from 12 to 4 p.m. and on In addition to the fun, food and enter- Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. tainment, Railfest is an opportunity to rec- Admission is free. ognize an individual who has shown dediFor more information, please call cation and participation in the community 719-6989. Be sure to like the museum on throughout the year. The Golden Spike Facebook to get current information on Award, as it is known, is awarded at 11 events.
The Village Players To Present The Who’s Tommy The Village spirit. It is the story of the Players will present pinball-playing, deaf, The Who’s Tommy dumb and blind boy who over several weektriumphs over adversiends in April. This ties. After witnessing the epic musical will be accidental murder of his held at the James mother’s lover by his McCabe Theatre father who was prelocated at 506 N. 5th sumed dead in WWII, The Village Players will present the Tommy is traumatized St. in Valrico. iconic rock musical, The Who’s The show will into catatonia. As he Tommy, this April at the historic James McCabe Theatre in Valrico. grows, he suffers abuse kick off on Friday, April 12 and Saturday, April 13 at 8 p.m. at the hands of sadistic neighbors and and then again over the next two weekrelatives. As an adolescent, it is revealed ends on Friday, April 19 and 26 and that he has an uncanny knack for playing Saturday, April 20 and 27. There will be pinball. When his mother finally breaks two matinees held on Sunday, April 14 through his catatonia, he becomes an and 20 at 3 p.m. international pinball superstar. Doors open 30 minutes prior to curGail Pierce with the Village Players tain time. said, “The Who’s Tommy is a classical Tickets to The Who’s Tommy are $18 rock musical. We are stepping out of our for general admission and $15 for sencomfort zone with this one to reach a difiors, students and groups of 10 or more. ferent audience. Domin Pazzo is a great Group tickets must be purchased in director. I think a lot of people are really advance. You can get tickets by calling going to enjoy this.” the 643-8292 or 480-3147 or by visiting The score in The Who’s Tommy is www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com. timeless and has a youthful appeal. The The Village Players Artistic Director, musical is a cross-generational hit. The Domin Pazzo, will direct The Who’s Village Players production will have a live Tommy. The rock musical is based on the band comprised of talented musicians. iconic 1969 rock concept album by The The Who’s Tommy debuted on Who. Music and lyrics are by Pete Broadway in 1993. It was nominated for Townshend and the book is by 11 Tony Awards and won five that year. Townshend and Des McAnuff. For more information, please visit The Who’s Tommy is an exhilarating The Villapge Players’ website at story of hope, healing and the human www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com.
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Page 63
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Local Paintball Co. Celebrates Grand Re-Opening Of Seven Acre Property
By Kelly Wise Valdes
When South “And most excitTampa’s Paintball Co. ing, we have all new originally opened its rental equipment,” nearly seven-acre said Abdnour. “We property in August have improved our 2014, it quickly gained standard rental guns a loyal following of to the Planet Eclipse paintball enthusiasts. Emek 100 and have Owner and operator added low impact Amy Abdnour took party options.” great pride in providing Abdnour is excita safe and fun paintball South Tampa’s Paintball Co. launched ed about the changes its grand reopening in January 2019 experience to everyone with and ensures that famimproved fields, new equipment including first timers, and more fun. It is located at 3378 S. ilies will have a great 50th St. in Tampa. students, children, famtime at the park playilies as well as paintball aficionados. ing paintball, celebrating birthdays, enjoyPaintball is known as one of the ing teambuilding and relaxing in a familyworld's most exciting outdoor participation friendly and scenic park. sports. Paintball is played in more than “I love seeing people outside running 104 countries by millions of people who and playing, children finding an activity share a common desire for adventure they enjoy and a game in which they can and a strong competitive spirit. excel as well as families, friends and coSouth Tampa’s Paintball Co. is no workers playing and laughing together,” exception. Each weekend would find the said Abdnour. field filled with people getting out to the South Tampa’s Paintball Co. is curgreat outdoors for strategic and friendly rently offering a free entry on Sunday for games of paintball. South Tampa anyone returning with a Saturday wristPaintball Co. also hosted summer camps band. that were popular for kids and parents “You will recognize many of our familalike. iar faces as we work hard each and every “We took a break following our annuday to provide our customers with an outal summer camp last year,” said Abdnour. standing experience,” said Abdnour. “We used that time to refresh our fields South Tampa’s Paintball Co. is locatand make some exciting improvements.” ed at 3378 S. 50th St. in Tampa, also Among those improvements are known as U.S. 41, just south of streamlined air stations, new nets, a new Causeway Blvd. and the railroad tracks. bunker theme, added fort and woods eleVisit www.southtampapaintballs.com, ments and a significantly improved stancall 956-2038 or email southtampapaintdard rental package. ballinfo@gmail.com.
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Page 64
Volume 18, Issue 4
4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BRANDON’S BEST HOMES
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