Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk October 2019

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk

October 2019 Volume 18, Issue 10 Ph: 657-2418

28 C E L E B R A T I N G

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Y E A R S

O F

P U B L I S H I N G

P O S I T I V E

C O M M U N I T Y

24 N E W S

River Hills Residents Complete Purchase Of Country Club And Golf Course

Osprey Observer Hosts Bullfrog Creek Bingo Fundraiser For Miles For Moffitt Team

River Hills “At a time Country Club and its where golf course 198 acres of land communities and facilities, includthroughout Florida ing an 18-hole, parare seeing develop72 course, has been ers purchase and purchased by RHC build on golf course Master Association, land, with substanInc., the corporation tial negative impact that is the homeownon home values in ers association for those communities, the River Hills comRiver Hills homemunity. owners believe this The purchase will allow them to price was $2.9M and be in control of the association will these assets, in spend another control of their des$2.1M to upgrade tiny,” Brooks wrote the facility and take Aerial view of the River Hills Country in an email. care of deferred Representing Club golf course from the club’s Facebook page. maintenance. the seller, Fore Golf “With the purServices, was Steven chase, residents can Ekovich, the national be assured that will managing director of not change,” said the Leisure Paul Brooks, presiInvestment Properties dent of the homeGroup of Marcus & owners association’s board of direcMillichap. He says the sale means tors. residents don’t have to worry about The 30-year-old course was new owners developing part, or all, of designed by legendary course design- the site as apartments, a rehabilitation er Joe Lee and includes amenities like center or an assisted living facility. a 13,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, pro shop “They did a fantastic thing by conas well as men’s and women’s locker trolling their property values,” said rooms. Other athletic and lifestyle Ekovich, who handles similar transacfacilities include a playground, fitness tions throughout the country, ranging center and swimming pool, as well as from marinas to ski resorts. The River basketball, sand volleyball and tennis Hills golf course was designed by courts. ‘Gentleman’ Joe Lee, who, according Besides physical recreation, River to golfadvisor.com, designed 146 Hills dining and banquet facilities have courses in the second half of the 20th been locations for countless family century, reshaping the landscape of and community celebrations, ranging Florida with 71 courses in the state, from wedding receptions to charitable including Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill chili cook-offs since opening in 1989. Club & Lodge outside of Orlando.

The Osprey “I have close Observer staff is friends and family inviting residents to members currenthave a good time ly affected by canfor a great cause cer in some way this month. On and have lost Thursday, October many to the dis17 at 7:30 p.m., the ease,” said Osprey Observer’s Osprey Miles for Moffitt Observe team, Assignment MaKEITHappen, Editor Michelle will host a bingo Colesanti who night at Bullfrog has participatThe Osprey Observer’s MaKEITHappen Miles Creek Brewing in ed in the fundraisfor Moffitt team is hosting a fundraising bingo night at Bullfrog Creek Brewing on Thursday, ing walk for two Valrico. October 17. Tickets to the years. “It surbingo night are $20 for five games and rounds each and every one of us in some there will be a cash bar with food availway. Though there may not be a cure in able to purchase from Rockstar Lobster’s my lifetime, I can most certainly celebrate food truck. The event will also feature a those who are currently dealing with their raffle and silent auction, with all proceeds own private battles and honor the memogoing directly to Miles for Moffitt, Moffitt ries of those I have loved dearly and lost.” Cancer Center’s annual fundraiser. It is not too late to join a team for Osprey Observer Billing Manager Miles for Moffitt. To learn more, visit Terry Vassalotti has a personal reason for www.give.moffitt.org. raising funds for Moffitt. Her husband, Doors will open for bingo night at Keith, is receiving treatment at the Tampa 6:30 p.m. Email center for melanoma. editor@ospreyobserver.com for reserved “Keith started his journey with Moffitt seating details; otherwise, seating is part back in May 2017 when they found that of the general admission. For more inforhis melanoma had spread,” said mation, call 657-2418. Bullfrog Creek Vassalotti. “He had wonderful care then Brewing is located at 3632 Lithia and still does, from two surgeries to Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. remove tumors to six weeks of radiation. Unfortunately, we found out in June of In This this year that it had spread again, and Issue now he is receiving immunotherapy to hopefully keep the cancer from spreading further. Everyone we have come into contact with, from doctors to staff to volunVETERANS DAY PARADE.....................PG 3 teers, couldn’t be more helpful or kind. FOX SQUIRREL CORN MAZE...............PG 7 We are very fortunate to have Moffitt so close to us.” MPA MUSIC FESTIVAL......................PG 13 This is the second year the Osprey FAMILY FUN EVENTS ........................PG 21 Observer’s MaKEITHappen team is participating in Moffitt’s annual 5K walk and CHALKLINES .....................................PG 30 run, which will take place on Saturday, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ..............PGS 37 November 23. All proceeds from the event support lifesaving cancer research READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE at Moffitt, where researchers are at the very front lines of the effort to defeat canwww.ospreyobserver.com cer.

By Kate Quesada

Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596

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Page 2

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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October 2019

Page 3

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Newsome Band Hosts First Veterans Day Parade Through FishHawk

County Nears Completion On Dorman Road Bridge Project

By Kate Quesada

By Kate Quesada

present the colors. Park Square will also be set up with vendor tents and the local restaurants will be open to serve lunch. Golf carts can be reserved for any veterans unable to walk the route by emailing nicolecevans@outlook.com before The Newsome Band and Color Gurad, pictured here in the Saturday, November 2. “It will be a fantasIndependence Day Parade in Washington D.C. earlier this year, will host a Veterans Day Parade in FishHawk on tic event for all ages,” Monday, November 11 starting at 10 a.m. said Wysong. The Newsome High School “Everyone is welcome.” Marching Band and Color Guard are The event will also act as a fundraisplanning a Veterans Day for FishHawk er for the band to pay for, among other to remember. The group is putting items, musical instruments, music, unitogether the first Veterans Day Parade, forms, clinician fees, competition entry which will start at 10 a.m. on Monday, fees, bus transportation to competitions November 11 and is looking for veterans and away performances. Raffle tickets of all ages to join the celebration. will be available for purchasing at the According to Booster’s Vice vendor fair following the parade, and President of Fundraising Donna band members will participate in a Wysong, the idea for the parade came March-a-thon giving campaign in the about after the Newsome Band marched weeks leading up to the parade. in the Independence Day Parade in “The parade and concert afterward Washington D.C. earlier this year. will be a fun and exciting event and we “We wanted to create an event to want to welcome everyone to bring give back to the community for all the chairs and show up along the parade support it has shown for the band and route and at Park Square to support the color guard program over the years,” veterans groups and first responders,” said Wysong. said Wysong. The band, veterans, first responSponsorships for the parade are ders, local politicians and their guests, available, and current sponsors include Boy and Girl Scouts and other residents Melissa Snively State Farm, Pinch-awill march the parade route starting at Penny FishHawk (the Rutledge family) Park Square and moving down and Busciglio Smiles. FishHawk Crossing Blvd., past the To learn more about ways to conAquatic Club, through Ibis Park and tribute or participate in the event, email back up Dorman Rd. After the parade nbbfundraising@gmail.com. portion of the event, the Newsome Elite FishHawk’s Park Square is located choir will perform, guest speaker Retired at 16132 Churchview Dr. in Lithia. To Colonel USMC Beau Higgins will talk to learn more about the Newsome Band, the crowd and the Newsome JROTC will visit www.newsomeband.com.

Good news for residents who travel on Boyette Rd. in Lithia. Construction is expected to finish next month on the bridge on Boyette Rd., just southwest of the intersection with Dorman Rd., after more than a year, meaning the end to a significant detour for drivers. Damage to the Construction is nearing completion in Lithia on the bridge bridge, which was built on Boyette Rd., just southwest of the intersection with in 1966, was discovDorman Rd. ered during a routine happened relatively fast considering inspection in September 2018. The we had no warning of the closure.” county immediately closed the road However, a very rainy summer surrounding the bridge, causing drivand a hurricane activation led to ers to detour onto Browning Rd. to unavoidable delays in construction Dorman Rd. that pushed the county beyond the “Our crew was performing routine projected late summer opening date. desilting when they found deficiencies Boulnois now hopes to have the that caused us to have to close the bridge open by Thursday, October 31. bridge right away,” said Jason “This is why we do inspections,” Boulnois, Hillsborough County's conhe said. struction services section manager. Channing Park resident Kerrie According to Boulnois, after Hoening is looking forward to an easiresearch, it made more economical er commute once the bridge resense to replace the bridge rather opens. than repair it. "It will be great to be able to use The county then designed and the road again after so long," said bid-out construction on a new bridge Hoening. "We appreciate the county as quickly as possible with a budget working hard to keep us safe on the of $682,000. roads but with the bridge so close to “Knowing that residents were fac- our community, it will be a relief to no ing a detour with the bridge closed, longer have to take the detour." we tried to have construction start as For more information, visit soon as possible,” said Boulnois. “It www.hillsboroughcounty.org.

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Page 4

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

FishHawk Creek Students Spread Kindness With Rocks For 9/11

An Evening Of Hope Brings The Community Together To Help Others By Amanda Boston You’re invitBrewer contined to An Evening ued, “There will of Hope on also be a silent Friday, auction featuring November 1 at one-of-a-kind items The Regent in to bid on. The Riverview. evening program Presented by starts at 8 p.m., Brandon and we will have Regional inspiring testiHospital and The monies from three Physicians of local families the An Evening of Hope rallies the community to Brandon Angel Foundation help those in need while having an incredible night out. Regional assisted while they Hospital, the evening brings together the were in crisis. This is my favorite event of community to raise funds and awareness the year." for the Angel Foundation. Tickets are $75 per person. Table The Angel Foundation is a nonprofit sponsorship is also available, which that offers assistance to families affected includes recognition and advertising. For by life-threatening illnesses or catastroph- more information or to purchase ic events such as fires and floods. It tickets/table sponsorship, please visit matches families with Angel Teams made www.AngelFoundationFL.com. up of local business owners and volunJanet Noah, the director of teers who can help. Community Relations at The Bridges "This is our 14th annual Evening of Retirement Community, has been an Hope and, in keeping with tradition, Angel Team member for the past nine guests will stroll around the tables with years and is also the co-chair of the live entertainment and enjoy wonderful Angel Team program. food and drinks from local restaurants, Noah described the impact of the bakers and caterers,” said Liz Brewer, the program, “Anytime cancer is a diagnosis executive director for the Angel for a family, it can completely turn their Foundation. world upside down. I have been on the This year, The Regent ballroom will [Angel] Team helping numerous families be transformed into a masquerade ball. as they go through radiation and chemo. The doors open at 7 p.m. (6:30 p.m. for We help them with everyday needs, such VIP guests) with the first hour devoted to as meal delivery and lawn mowing.” music, mingling and munching on deliThe Regent is located at 6437 cious eats. The formal portion begins Watson Rd. in Riverview. For more inforwhen Channel 10’s Allison Kropff takes mation about Evening of Hope, please the microphone as the emcee. call 689-6889.

Expiration: 10.31.2019

Volume 18, Issue 10

By Kate Quesada

Students from patients and visitors. FishHawk Creek “It was so movElementary (FHCE) ing to see how School brought a something as small smile to hundreds of as a rock totally faces last month. All changed people’s of the school’s day,” said Martin, 1,100 students who explained that painted kindness the students gave rocks and gave out around 500 them to veterans at rocks to veterans at Tampa’s James A. the hospital and Haley Veterans’ placed 300 others Hospital as part of around the building their annual kindand its grounds. ness project. “One of the veterans According to even took the stuFHCE PTA dents on a walk and Students at FishHawk Creek Elementary showed them how President Jamie School painted kindness rocks last month to stack rocks. They Martin, the school and distributed them to veterans at coordinates a comall smiled while they Tampa’s James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital. munity service projwere talking to the ect every year around 9/11 to help teach kids. It was so heartwarming to see.” the students the importance of giving The school also used the painting of back. The PTA president is responsible the rocks as a lesson on giving. for choosing the project and Martin, “We wanted to make sure they whose father is a veteran, picked somelearned how it feels to be able to conthing close to her heart that also made a tribute to the community,” said Martin. big impact on the students. “Some of the kids wondered why they “We use the project as a way to help couldn’t keep the rocks that they painted the children learn about the heroism that and we made sure to tell them that their came from 9/11,” said Martin. “Once we rock would bring a smile to someone who decided to have the kids paint kindness might really need it.” rocks, it was a natural jump to focus on Additional rocks will be given out at giving them to veterans, especially as our the school’s Veterans Day Program and school has a large military population.” some will be kept for FHCE’s outdoor The students each painted a rock at classroom and butterfly garden. school in early September and soon after, FishHawk Creek Elementary School members of the Military Kids Club travis located at 16815 Dorman Rd. in Lithia eled to the hospital to distribute them to and can be reached at 651-2150.

Expiration: 10.31.2019

Expiration: 10.31.2019


October 2019

Page 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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BLOOMINGDALE/FISHHAWK RIVERVIEW APOLLO BEACH • BRANDON • VALRICO If you have an

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk edition please contact Osprey Observer 657-2418.

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

We Buy C ins We also buy Stamp Collections, Proof Sets, Postcards, and Foreign Coins

Hillsborough County Public School District 4 Citizen Advisory Council Coummunity Meeting Discussion Topic: Progression Plan will be held Tuesday, Oct 22 Marshall Middle School Media Center located at 18 S. Maryland Ave. in Plant City, Join school board member Melissa Snively and her 3 CAC (Citizens Advisory Committee) appointees at its community meeting. The meeting also serves as an opportunity to provide input to Melissa Snively regarding her decisions on budget and other policies. Parents, students, teachers and administrators are welcome.

Calling All Moms – MOPS First and third Tuesday of Month Fishhawk Fellowship Church, 15326 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia Coffee, brunch and free childcare. All moms (including soon-to-be) welcome. Visit Fishhawk MOPS and MOMSnext on Facebook for info and updates. Email l.bellora@hotmail.com.

Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Tuesday, October 15, November 19 and Thursday, October 3, November 7 HCC campus at The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd., Riverview. Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking Social Security benefits; perfect for ages 58-67. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave a message after 4:30 p.m.

Grey Matters Toastmasters First and third Thursday of month; 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bloomingdale Library at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico Benefits of club include confidence-building in public speaking, enhancement of leadership skills, and unique, lively, stimulating discussions. Visit https://greymatters.toastmastersclubs.org/.

Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pets Saturday, October 5; 11:00 a.m.-12:00 Noon Kim’s Natural Foods, 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.

Rose Gardening Seminar Saturday, October 12; 10 a.m. Kerby’s Nursery and Landscaping, 2311 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner Get roses back into peak shape after the summer season and how to prepare them for cooler temperatures in the winter. Call 685-3265; visit www.kerbysnursery.com.

Fruit Tree Seminar Saturday, October 19; 10 a.m. Kerby’s Nursery and Landscaping, 2311 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner Learn about protecting cold-sensitive fruit trees from potential winter cold and planting hardy trees. Call 685-3265; visit www.kerbysnursery.com.

Congregation Beth Shalom Shabbat Services Fridays; 7:30 p.m. 706 Bryan Rd., Brandon. All welcome. Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. Services stream live afterwards on Facebook at Congregation Beth Shalom of Brandon. Call 681-6547 for more information.

Master Gardener Library Program Riverview Branch Library; 10509 Riverview Dr. Tuesday, November 4; 6:30 p.m. - Organic Vegetable Gardening Learn about planting seasons, pest and disease control and varieties that thrive in Central Florida. Email amblibrary@gmail.com or call 205-6621 for more information.

Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m. Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza, Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President, 767-1569

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Page 6

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Center Place To Host Coach Bag Bingo

CUSTOM HAIR

local nonprofit, Center Place. Funds raised at the event will support children’s art programs at Center Place. In addition to Coach Bag Bingo, there will also be raffle prizes, food, drinks and 50/50 tickets available. Melissa Canfield, event chair for Coach Bag Bingo, said, “I am lucky to be on the board of directors at Center Place this year. One of the reasons I agreed to join this board and the reason we are hosting this event is to help support children and the arts in our community.” Canfield added, “Many of the programs that Center Place hosts need local support. Art is such an important part of a child’s development from a young age. Fundraisers like this allow us to have a fun time, play bingo and win a new Coach purse while supporting the important programs Center Place offers to our community.” Events like Coach Bag Bingo would not be possible without support. Canfield said, “A special thank you goes out to our event sponsors, Teresa Fink with American Dream Home Mortgage and Tammy Holmberg of Chick-fil-A, Lake Brandon Village and Bloomingdale.” If you have a business or just want to support children’s art programs at Center Place, please consider donating an item for the raffle prizes. For more information on Center Place’s Coach Bag Bingo, please visit www.centerplacebrandon.org or call 685-8888.

For the hair you’ve always wanted!

By Kathy L. Collins

Gather up your friends and plan on attending Center Place’s Coach Bag Bingo on Tuesday, October 8 at 6 p.m. at Center Place in Brandon.

Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association (Center Place) is hosting Coach Bag Bingo on Tuesday, October 8. The event will be held at Center Place located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. Doors open at 6 p.m. and bingo will begin at 7 p.m. Tickets to the event are $40 per person. Tickets can be purchased online through Eventbrite (www.Eventbrite.com) or at Center Place. This event sells out quickly, so you are encouraged to purchase your tickets now. Remaining tickets may be available at the door on the night of the event, but if you want to attend, you should not wait. Coach Bag Bingo has been a sensational hit all across the country. Now is your chance to have a good time, take home a beautiful Coach bag and support a wonderful,

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October 2019

Page 7

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Enjoy The Fall Season With A Day In The Country At Annual Fox Squirrel Corn Maze

By Kathy L. Collins

Enjoy a fun Florida Futch added, “If autumn day at the you are in the mood Annual Fox Squirrel for a bit of problem Corn Maze hosted by solving, or just plain the Futch Family on out of the ordinary their beautiful Single R country fun, the Fox Ranch in Plant City. Squirrel Corn Maze The country fun will is the place to be.” take place from In addition to Saturday, October 5 the maze, you can through Sunday, enjoy a tractor October 27. You can pulled hayride, visit the ranch on pumpkin patch, famYou will not want to miss the Annual ily games and lots of Saturdays and Fox Squirrel Corn Maze at the beauSundays from 10 a.m. tiful Futch Family’s Single R Ranch arts and crafts venin Plant City. There will be loads of dors. to 5 p.m. Guests are asked to exit the ranch fun at this annual fall event, which is Admission to the perfect for the whole family. Make by 6 p.m. Fox Squirrel Corn sure to try the corn maze with a great new design this year. Futch Maze is $11 plus tax Entertainment’s Fox Squirrel Corn for adults 18 years and older and $10 Maze features a corn maze, pumpplus tax for children 3 to 17 years old. kins for sale, hayrides, games and an Children 2 years old and under are opportunity to enjoy the great outadmitted for free. Card-carrying doors. It will have fun food and heroes get $2 off admission. snacks and lots of yummy delights for The admission booth accepts you to enjoy. Vendors will offer pump- cash, Visa, Mastercard and Discover. kin painting, butterfly experience, Please note that the vendors accept crafts, balloon art, handmade chilcash only and there are no ATMs ondren’s clothing, face painting and site. more. This year, you can also ride a The Single R Ranch is located at mechanical bull during the first three 3002 Charlie Taylor Rd. in historic weekends. Plant City. For more information on Janet Futch said, “This year this year’s Fox Squirrel Corn Maze, marks the Eighth Annual Fox Squirrel please visit www.foxsquirrelcornCorn Maze Agritourism Event. Visiting maze.com. Make sure to like them on the ranch offers a unique experience Facebook at from the everyday humdrum of the www.facebook.com/fscornmaze. You city for a beautiful day on the ranch. can also follow them on Twitter There is something for everyone to (fox_maze) and Instagram (foxsquirdo and enjoy.” relcornmaze).

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Page 8

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

un, R / k l a rW r& o l o C 5K nne i D t s e Harv n & More… Auctio y Michelle Colesanti,

and a charity bowling fundraiser Any servto benefit Metropolitan Ministries ice minded will be held on Sunday, October men or 20 from 2-6 p.m. at Oakfield women over Lanes, located at 1001 Oakfield the age of 18 Dr. in Brandon. Closing ceremomay join. b ny will be 5-6 p.m. m Several inford o e c r. il e p rv Com reyobse p s You may participate individuo mational and @ e michell ally or as teams. Event sponsororganizationship is available for individuals al meetings and businesses. People may are planned participate by bowling and/or in the next month. Meetings sponsorship. will be held at the Grace VSL’s Annual Harvest Dinner & The cost is $15 per person. Community United Auction For more information, email Methodist Church on 5708 This year, GFWC Valrico Service Lithia Pinecrest Rd. on GFWC Valrico Service League, Inc. (VSL) members made mats CharityEvent@SelfProtection.me League, Inc. (VSL) members made Saturday, September 28, out of recycled plastic bags that were gifts to homeless in the or text 438-6158. community. Its main fundraiser of the year, its Harvest Dinner & mats out of recycled plastic bags that October 5 and October 12 Auction, will be held on Sunday, November 3 at Center Place. were gifts to homeless in the commuPlant Clinics At The from 12 Noon-1:30 p.m. CART (captioning) will be availnity. Children helping on the project Bloomingdale Library For more information and to able to help guests see the words. learned about recycling and were The Bloomingdale Library hosts RSVP, please email Lion Tim Foreman Topic: CapTel® Caption Phones – amazed that plastic bags we throw out at tampatim@juno.com. Plant Clinics on the first Wednesday Dana Schroeder. Learn about how could make something so helpful and of every month at 6:30 p.m. In you can get a free caption phone. liked making those in need more comOctober, the group will meet on the 41st Annual BOPC (Buick Olds Bring your handshakes, smiles and fortable. 2nd and the subject will be Organic Pontiac Cadillac) Car Show And questions. The group's main fundraiser for Vegetable Gardening. Swap Meet The meet and greet starts at the year is the 2019 Harvest Dinner & Attendees will learn the basics of The 41st Annual BOPC Car Show 12:30 p.m. For information, email Auction to be held on Sunday, growing vegetables with a discussion, and Swap Meet with all years, makes Eloise Schwarz at November 3 at Center Place, located including in-ground, raised beds and and models of Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Eloise6376@gmail.com. Visit at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. containers, planting seasons, pest and Pontiacs and Cadillacs will be held on www.hlaascc.com. Tickets are $30 and may be purdisease control and varieties that Saturday, October 26 from 9:30 a.m.chased at Center Place through thrive in Central Florida. 2:30 p.m. at Downtown City Park at Progressive® Insurance Tampa Friday, October 18. The next meeting will take place 119 W. Park St. in Auburndale. Boat Show® Postponed To October on November 6 and will focus on The event, sponsored by Terry Visit www.oldsclubofflorida.com for 25-27 Fink of State Farm Insurance and Matt the registration form and flyer. sprouts and microgreens. Due to Hurricane Dorian, the 2019 Carter, realtor, of Coldwell Banker For more information, contact Progressive® Insurance Tampa Boat Real Estate, starts at 5 p.m., with a Richard at 393-638-3917. Stepping Out Against Domestic Show® has been postponed to catered dinner at 6 p.m. and live aucViolence 5K Color Walk/Run Friday-Sunday, October 25-27. It will tion at 7 p.m. Come Have Fun At New Hope The fourth annual Stepping Out remain at the Tampa Convention Other United Methodist Church’s Annual Against Domestic Center for its new October dates. activities Trunk Or Treat Violence Awareness All pre-purchased tickets will be include proFamilies are invited to join their Day 5K Color honored during the new dates. Please friends and neighbors for an evening viding food, Walk/Run will be visit TampaBoatShow.com for more clothing and of free fun. On Sunday, October 20 held on Saturday, information. school supfrom 4-6 p.m., New Hope United October 5, benefitplies for Title Methodist Church is opening up its ting Mary & Martha Silverhawk Native American Flute I elementary campus for its annual Trunk or Treat, House. Gathering And Arts and Craft Show a wholesome Halloween alternative school children, Cards for the Troops The walk will take place at the Dock Green Silverhawk, a longparticipation and hosting activities for featuring decorated car trunks filled Florida State Fairgrounds on 4800 US time resident of Plant City, will host residents at a needs-based nursing with candy and other treats. In addiHwy. 301 N. in Tampa. his 16th annual Silverhawk Native home. Last year's auction also helped tion, children and adults alike are welParking is $8 (enter the fairAmerican Flute Gathering and Arts VSL support ECHO, Brandon come to enjoy complimentary grilled grounds at Gate 2). Registration is at 8 and Craft Show on Saturday and Outreach Clinic, Center Place, Family hot dogs and chips. a.m. and the walk begins at 9 a.m. Sunday, October 19-20, at Promise of Brandon, A Kid's Place, New Hope is located just north of Families, beginners, children and pets Withlacoochee River Park on 12449 Seeds of Hope, Real Hope Ministry, S.R. 60 (Brandon Blvd.), at 213 N. Withlacoochee Blvd. in Dade City Campo YMCA and Canine Knights Ave., between Kings Ave. and from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Parking and Companions, among others. Parsons Ave. For more information, admission are free. For more information, call contact the church office at 689Experience the hauntingly beautiClaudia Yake at 685-7998 or Sue 4161or visit us on Facebook or online ful voice of the Native American-style Hadden at 685-6160. at www.findnewhope.com. flute. Spend the weekend listening to the nonstop music of incredible flute New Lions Club Forming In (on a leash) are welcome. The cost is players, singers, story tellers, and FishHawk Ranch Area $30 per person. Sacred Thunder Drum. A new Lions Club will be forming Register online at https://runThis cultural family event is open in the FishHawk Ranch area. Lions signup.com/Race/FL/Tampa/4thAnnual to the public. No drugs or alcohol Clubs International is the world’s SteppingOutAgainstDomesticViolence allowed. Pets are welcome on leashlargest service organization, made up ColorRun5K. es, but bring baggies to clean up. Visit of nearly 1.5 million men and women silverhawkflutegathering.com or call in over 200 countries. Learn About Free Caption Phone Dock Green Silverhawk at 763-2118. Since 1917, Lions Clubs have At Sun City Hearing Loss Chapter aided the blind and visually impaired Meeting Bowling Event To Bring Awareness and made a strong commitment to The Hearing Loss Association of To Domestic community service and serving youth America’s (HLAA) Sun City Center Violence Benefits throughout the world. Its missions Chapter will meet on Tuesday, Metropolitan include diabetes, hunger, environment October, 15 at 1 p.m. at St. Andrew Ministries and childhood cancer. Presbyterian Church in the looped felOctober is For more information about Lions lowship hall. The church is located at Domestic Violence Clubs International, visit www.lion1239 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Awareness Month, sclubs.org. Center.

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October 2019

Page 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Businesses Sponsor Another Season Of Movies In The Park Square

By Kate Quesada

Local residents place during the series are invited to do with a Winterfest event something a little scheduled for November different with their 30. Saturday nights this All movies are free fall. Businesses in to everyone and will be FishHawk Ranch’s shown on a 19-foot Park Square are inflatable movie screen coordinating the starting at dusk. Movies in the Park “Come out at 6 p.m. series for the secto visit with our sponond year with fun sors and order dinner, new attractions for drinks and dessert from the whole family. The Movies in the Park series in Park Square businessFishHawk’s Park Square kicked off es,” said Soncrant. “We The series, last month. Events will take place couldn’t do this without which kicked off twice a month throughout the fall last month with the generosity of all of and winter. Aladdin, is coordinated by Eric our sponsors, so please support them Soncrant, owner of the Art Monkey so we can keep building these events Emporium. and provide more free fun in Park “Our goal is provide fun things for Square.” families to do in Park Square,” said The event’s featured sponsor is Soncrant. “We want Park Square to the Tony Baroni Team at Keller be active with our community’s famiWilliams Realty and the starring sponlies.” sors are Watts Dental and Motion Voting is currently underway for Chirotherapy. Other sponsors include the first October movie, which will take Certified Roofers, Tampa Printer, place on October 5. The options are LadyBird Academy - FishHawk, The Secret Life of Pets 2, Avengers: Davenports Daily Delights, Briggs End Game, Pokemon: Detective Family Insurance Services Amerifirst, Pikachu and Shazam. Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, “Our first movie had bear hugs Foundation Title and Trust, TECO where kids could make their own Energy, Brandon Stem Cell Clinic and stuffed animals, and they’ll be back for the Law Office of Kari L. McDonald. more events throughout the year,” said For more information, call the Art Soncrant. “We are working on some Money Emporium at 315-9803. Visit other surprises as well.” Art Monkey’s Facebook page to learn On October 19, Park Square will more and vote on upcoming movies. welcome local band Smakk for a conPark Square is located at 16132 cert, and two other concerts will take Churchview Dr. in Lithia.

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Page 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

Campo YMCA Benefits From Hand Tossed ‘Your Pie’ Pizza Opening In Brandon

Staff Report

Your Pie, the original fast casual pizza concept, opened in Brandon on September 13 at 125 E. Bloomingdale Ave. The brick oven pizzeria offers a customizable, down-the-line experience. This is its eighth Florida location. Your Pie Brandon is owned and operated by Theresa and Karen Sharkey, who look forward to bringing Brandon a new way to experience pizza. “We were initially drawn to Your Pie because the build-your-own pizza model piqued our interest,” said Theresa Sharkey. “As we learned more about the brand, we were impressed with the leadership and found that their values and mission aligned really well with our own. We love what they stand for, with a strong focus on serving the community and providing a family-friendly environment. We want to be the go-to family restaurant where every family member, no matter what age, can enjoy a good meal together with no need to compromise or sacrifice.” Prior to its official grand opening, Your Pie Brandon hosted Dine and Donate events where monetary donations were collected on behalf of the Campo Family YMCA. “The Campo Family YMCA is more than just a gym and swim,” said Executive Director Jarrod Williams. “Last year alone, the Campo Y provided more than $400,000 in subsidies to individuals and families so that they can learn the life lessons of water safety, learn the value of teamwork through youth sports programs and reach their health and wellness goals and live a better life. At the Y, we believe in strengthening the foundation of com-

Your Pie Brandon recently opened at 125 E. Bloomingdale Ave. You can choose your own creative fresh ingredients to personalize your pizza or order one of the many choices already on the menu.

munity, and thanks to Your Pie Brandon, we will be able to help impact our community together. We are very excited to receive support from another organization that cares as deeply about the community it serves as we do. Thank you, Your Pie Brandon, for helping us transform lives.”

“Our dream has always been to build a business that benefits our local community,” said Karen Sharkey. “We want to use Your Pie as a platform to serve the residents of Brandon and the surrounding areas, both in and outside our store, and we hope to be known for supporting worthy causes that matter most to this community.”

Your Pie was founded in 2008 by culinary entrepreneur Drew French, who aimed to create an innovative restaurant concept offering high-quality, brick oven pizza at incredible speed. Your Pie began franchising in 2010 and now shares its mission with nearly 70 stores across the United States, with about 50 locations in development. While family recipes and Italian culture helped lay the foundation for its processes and exceptional quality, Your Pie has continued to build upon this foundation with new ingredients, innovative recipes and endless choices to create a one-of-a-kind experience with traditional roots and a flair all its own. Your Pie uses hand-tossed dough, only fresh ingredients, homemade pizza sauces and salad dressings, and it offers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free pizzas in addition to its traditional pizzas, chopped salads and paninis. All menu items, including its rotating seasonal menu, are inspired by family recipes from the Italian island of Ischia. The store also offers craft beer, wine and Italian-style gelato pairings designed to perfectly complement guests’ custom pizza creations. Members of the Osprey Observer staff tried the pizza during its soft opening. Everyone enjoyed not only the fresh ingredients on pizza that tasted great, but also the fun of creating interesting combinations to try. Everyone agreed that they would return. Your Pie Brandon is located at 125 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon and can be reached at 502-6354. For more information, visit www.yourpie.com.


October 2019

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 11


Page 12

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Candor Grille’s Logo A Nod To Mom

By Michelle Caceres

Candor Grille Customer Betty owner Elaine Jackson Forrester agrees the said the restaurant’s crab-stuffed avocado is logo, a fork, knife and delicious, but she has spoon enclosed in a tried many dishes and heart, is a tribute to her said they’re all wondermother, Judy Kamerer, ful. who passed away in “We’ve lived in 2016. FishHawk for many “My mother was an years and the only negartist and she signed ative was there aren’t everything as Judi with really a lot of restaurant a heart over the ‘i,’” she choices close to us,” said. she said. “When Even though the Candor Grille first heart is a nod to mom, opened, my husband it’s also a signal that all Candor Grille managers Erik Taylor and I decided we’d give and Melissa Gonzalez serve up a it a try and weren’t disof Candor Grille’s food delicious assortment of Southern appointed.” is made with love, comfort food and international thanks to the collaboraCandor Grille also dishes in this family-friendly restaurant. tion of Jackson and features a full bar, Texas chef Mike including beer, wine Badgett. and cocktails. The restaurant, Jackson, who located at 13418 moved back from Boyette Rd. in River Afghanistan (which is Springs Town Center, another story entirehas a menu that fealy) after a successful tures what Badgett calls career as director of good classic Southern five large companies comfort food, thanks in at her mother’s part to its smoker that request (when she churns out Texas-style realized family was beef brisket and pork. more important than Traditional Southern career), said one of sides include baked the last things they beans, potato salad, did together was plan French fries and sweet and design her corn. Candor Grille’s first location in Tampa. Dishes have also been included on “She’s a part of Candor Grille the menu that are a reflection of the because we worked on the concept pair’s years spent overseas. Barramundi, together,” she said. an Asian sea bass, is sautéed in a lemon Mom may be gone but her dad, butter sauce with micro greens and Navy veteran Clyde Breeden, affectionasparagus. Aglio e olio pasta is a classic ately known as Padre by the staff, visits Italian dish with roasted chili pepper, gar- the restaurant and is her biggest supportlic-infused olive oil, parsley and er. Parmesan cheese. It can be served with “He encourages me to do my best, chicken or shrimp. On the appetizer be humble and honest in everything I menu is a warm Bavarian pretzel served do,” said Jackson. with stone-ground mustard, chili con Candor Grille is open Mondayqueso, smoked sausage and cheddar Thursday, 3 p.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 3 p.m.cheese which can be a meal in itself. 10 p.m.; Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Not adventurous or a fan of barand Sunday, 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m. On the beque? Not to worry, Candor Grille also weekends, breakfast is served until 2 serves up a selection of Mesquite grilled p.m. steaks, burgers, sandwiches, pasta and Bring your four-legged friend; the salads. A kids’ menu is also available for restaurant also has outdoor dining and little ones. offers a menu just for them, from deli One of the restaurant’s most popular meat and chew bones to lactose-free ice dishes is crab claw salad, fresh pico and cream with bacon. house spice served atop an open-faced For more information about Candor avocado, shredded iceberg lettuce with a Grille, visit www.candorgrille.com or call berry vinaigrette. 548-0410.

Duo Starts Adaptive Bra Business That Brings Confort & Hope To Cancer Patients

By Karin Davis-Thompson

Katerina use prosthetics. Rosenberg and Today, the duo has Susan Bonagura are created 21 styles. true examples of the Nineteen of those styles saying “necessity is include an insert that the mother of invenallows the use of a prostion.” When thetic. The bras are covBonagura was diagered by several insurance nosed with breast carriers, and they are cancer and began even using overlays over chemotherapy, she the base of the garment to found that many vary the style and look undergarments, without compromising especially bras, no comfort. longer met her The needs. bras are Susan Bonagura and Katerina Rosenberg host pop up shops “The bras on made throughout the area to the market felt rough promote without the apparel line they and irritated my underwire began after Bonagura’s breast cancer diagnosis. skin,” she said. “It and was a necessity for me, but I couldn’t find clasps anything. It was hard.” and are designed to stay on the shoulAfter sharing her frustration with her ders without the need to adjust the strap. friend, Rosenberg, the two came up with Sizes range from extra small to 4XL. an idea—to make adaptive clothing that Most users would purchase the same meets the needs of women trying to lead size for the bra as they do for their clothnormal lives while battling cancer. ing. “I had the manufacturing background, Bonagura said the response to the and we became an LLC in September of product has been inspiring and exciting. last year,” Rosenberg said. Along with online purchases, Pink Lift is They started with bras and looked for set to become a preferred vendor with materials that were soft and comfortable. Moffitt Cancer Center. A hospital in After making a prototype and talking with Atlanta is also reviewing Pink Lift and other women having the same struggle, considering a partnership. the two realized they were on to some“This journey has been amazing,” thing. Bonagura said. “We are also talking with They started Pink Lift and worked a few boutiques and may begin selling with prosthetic specialists to make sure the bras in stores in October.” their bras were comfortable and suitable To learn more about the company or for women enduring chemotherapy and to make a purchase online, visit www.pinthose who have had a mastectomy and klift.biz.

813-530-0922 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd Valrico (at Bloomingdale) HOURS: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm | Sunday 12pm-5pm


October 2019

Page 13

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Bloomingdale To Host MPA High School Music Performance Festival

Staff Report

Local music fans earned during last will have an opportuyear’s festival. nity to see young Bloomingdale’s musicians from the Director of Bands, Jon entire county perform Sever, is keen to welat a music festival come the public to witthis fall. On Saturday, ness the shows, sayNovember 2, ing, “[The MPA] gives Bloomingdale High the public a chance to School’s Rajun’ Bull see how hard these The public is invited to come out to Bloomingdale High School’s Charlie kids have been workBand will host Harris Stadium on Saturday, Hillsborough ing. Spectators will be November 2 to watch young band County’s Marching musicians from Hillsborough County able to enjoy a wide high schools perform their halftime Performance range of marching show for judges. Assessment (MPA) styles during the perat its ‘Charlie Harris’ Stadium. formances.” Every high school marching Showcasing all of the band in the county will perform bands in the county will be an its halftime show for spectators all-day event. Tickets can be and a panel of judges. purchased on the day of the The MPA festival is like a event for $10 or less. final exam grade for marching Spectators will be able to band programs. The bands will choose from a variety of concesnot be competing against one sions items and food vendors another. Instead, the panel of during the festival. Starting perjudges will rate each performformance time will be around 1 ance according to benchmarks p.m. Interested spectators can set by the Florida keep informed via Bloomingdale Bandmaster’s Association Band’s Facebook page: BSHS (FBA), which is the governing Rajun’ Bull Band. body for all middle and high school proThe Rajun’ Bull Band is asking for grams in the state. Two judges will additional support from the community in assess musical performance, with a third the form of sponsorships and donations. judge grading the percussion section. Anyone who is interested in contributing Dance teams and flag corps will be gradto Bloomingdale’s MPA Festival can coned by a judge for their contribution to the tact Jon Sever or the Bloomingdale Band visual performance. Two more judges will Boosters at jon.sever@sdhc.k12.fl.us or assess the visual performance and the 2019MPABloomingdale@gmail.com. overall effect of the show. All bands will Bloomingdale High School is located be looking to match or improve scores at 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico.

SouthShore Seafood & Arts Festival One Event, Combining Food, Fun, Art By Kelly Wise Valdes

The first-ever combined event, SouthShore Seafood & Arts Festival, will be debuting Saturday-Sunday, November 23 at E.G. Simmons Park in Ruskin.

The firstever combined event, SouthShore Seafood & Arts Festival, will be debuting Saturday-Sunday, November 2-3 at E.G. Simmons Park in Ruskin. This family-friendly event will bring together the tasty delights of the Seafood Festival along with arts and crafts, live entertainment and so much more. “We are excited to announce that the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce has decided to merge our spring arts festival with our fall seafood festival, creating the SouthShore Seafood & Arts Festival,” said Melanie Rimes, president of the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce. “We are bringing the Ruskin Seafood Festival and the Apollo Beach Manatee Festival of the Arts together as one dynamic SouthShore event.” The SouthShore Seafood Festival was the largest festival in Hillsborough

County, attracting more than 15,000 attendees each year. Now, this new combined event is thought to draw more than 30,000 guests looking for delicious seafood vendors, amazing artists, kids’ activities as well as live musical entertainment. There will be more than 150 vendors in this new combined festival. “We are excited to bring the community an even bigger and better festival,” said Rimes. “It's a lot of work planning these events (seven-nine months each) and this will allow us to plan our one huge event and then go back to focusing on the day-to-day chamber business.” There is a $2 entry fee per carload to E.G. Simmons Park. This fee is not per person—it is per carload and goes directly to Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation. Admission to the festival is $5 per adult and children under 12 years old are free. Active military are free with military ID. The SouthShore Seafood & Arts Festival will be held at E.G. Simmons Park, located at 2401 19th Ave. NW in Ruskin, on Saturday, November 2 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sunday, November 3 from 10.am. to 5 p.m. For information, visit www.ruskinseafoodfestival.org, email admin@southshorechamberofcommerce.org or call 645-1366.

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Page 14

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Tom Gallo Law Firm Has Been Part Of The Community For 14 Years

By Libby Hopkins

Winston Churchill cies and computerized once said, “We make receptionists,” Gallo said. a living by what we “People yearn for the days get. We make a life by when they were able to what we give.” Tom talk face-to-face to a carGallo has been making human being. People ing a living and his life do not want to be lectured for 14 years in the to or talked down to. I take Brandon community. the time to have a converGallo is an attorney sation with clients, learning and own of Tom Gallo us much as I can about Law in Valrico. them, as individuals with The mission of Tom Gallo Law “My beautiful wife hopes, dreams, goals and firm in Valrico is to educate clients and I have been mar- about the importance of planning fears before we even for their future. ried for 30 years,” begin to talk about their Gallo said. “We have two grown sons, legal needs. As a firm, we try our best to who both live in Hillsborough County, and make the clients relaxed and comfortable we have three beautiful granddaughters, when they are visiting us.” ranging from age 7 to 6 months.” Gallo’s law firm offers a variety of Gallo attended Rutgers as an under- legal services, which include wills and graduate and William and Mary Law trusts, elder law, probate, guardianships School. “I have practiced in Valrico and and asset protection. Brandon since 2005, and I have always “I enjoy the interaction with people, found it to be a friendly, welcoming comlearning about them and their experimunity,” Gallo said. “It has a great mixences and most of all, the satisfaction of ture of young and old folks from all parts seeing the smiles on their faces when we of the country. Even though it is a growhave helped them reach their goals,” ing area, it has a ‘small town’ feeling, Gallo said. “We have a great team at the where people can feel they are a part of firm, who all realize that we are there to a community.” serve our clients and that the clients are His law firm’s mission is to educate the true bosses. We provide a comfortclients about the importance of planning able environment for clients to make it for their future and that of their families easier for them to make some of the and to help them understand the documost difficult decisions that they will ever ments that they will need to do so, with have to make in their lives.” simple and straight forward language, in For more information, visit www.toma friendly, family environment. gallolaw.com or contact Gallo for a free “I have found that most people are consultation at 815-4529. Tom Gallo Law frustrated by continually having to deal is located at 2240 Lithia Center Ln. in with large corporations, major bureaucra- Valrico.

Volume 18, Issue 10


October 2019

Page 15

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Young Life Reaches Teens With Gospel Message Outside Church Walls

FishHawk Teen Has Dream Granted By Rays Player And Throws Out First Pitch

school, college-age, special needs students, military teens and a camp. Since 2013, Rusch has been involved with the Brandon/FishHawk Young Life group. The local group meets weekly on Monday evenings at 8 p.m. High school students attend ‘club’ gatherings at the Campo YMCA in Valrico and ‘campaigners’ gatherings in local homes. The Young Life group alternates every week between Young Life’s mission is to introduce the two locations. adolescents to Jesus Christ and help them grow in their faith. Club nights at Campo YMCA are Young Life started in 1939 as a book high energy gatherings with music, club in Texas and emerged in 1941 as a games and a short Bible message. The non-denominational ministry devoted to campaigners meeting is an evening comsharing the gospel with teens on ‘their parable to a church's small group and turf.’ It meets in homes and community focuses on teaching, prayer and sharing. centers like the YMCA, which act as neu- High school students may attend any tral territories rather than taking place in time throughout the year. Besides gathera church building. ings on Mondays, the group participates Sometimes, teens or their families in community events, fun social outings have had an unfortunate experience at a and summer camp. church gathering or are fearful to enter a “There are kids who are fully church building. Young Life bridges that involved in their faith; some that are gap by introducing teens to Jesus and questioning it; some who have only gone helping them grow in their faith. to church with their parents on Christmas “Young Life isn’t meant to take the and Easter; and others who have never place of a church gathering but is a safe heard anything about Jesus,” explained and comfortable, fun and energetic way Rusch. “The tagline for Young Life is for someone to be introduced to the they exist to reach the furthest out kid.” gospel or reintroduced to what it means Volunteer leaders are needed. If you to be living for Christ,” explained Greg are interested, you can contact Greg Rusch, the Brandon/FishHawk area Rusch at 695-6938 or leader. “The hope is to eventually get greg@mygraceumc.com. Background them connected to a ministry.” screening and training are required. More Today, this multifaceted Christian information on Facebook at ministry is present in all 50 states and 90 younglife.fishhawk; Instagram at brancountries. The international ministry has donarea_yl; or Snapchat at branadded groups for middle school, high donareayl.

Fifteen-year-old Kiermaier to make Grace Davis will Grace’s wish to have a never forget August special evening with her 20, 2019. The father come true. FishHawk resident “Grace and her dad, threw out the first Matt, both really love the pitch at the Ray’s band Queen, so it was game that day as the most incredible part of a much dream experience for anticipated wish them to be able to attend granted for her by the concert together,” the Children’s said Susan. Dream Fund. Matt, a lieutenant Grace, who colonel in the Army, was diagnosed recently returned from with postural ortho- FishHawk resident Grace Davis threw his sixth year-long out the first pitch at a Tampa Bay Rays deployment. static tachycardia game in August as part of a dream syndrome, mast The family, including granted for her by the Children’s cell disease, hered- Dream Fund. She also attended the Grace’s three brothers, Queen concert with her father and will Luke, Ryan and Isaiah, itary alpha visit Disney World with her family. tryptasemia and who was recently adoptsmall fiber neuropathy three years ago, ed after being fostered by the family, is also attended the sold-out Queen concert looking forward to visiting Disney together in Tampa with her father and received when the weather cools off as the final tickets for her whole family to go to aspect of Grace’s dream. Disney World thanks to the fund. As part of her treatment plan, Grace “Grace’s diagnosis means that she receives infusions twice a week, but that has severe allergic reactions that threaten does not stop her from keeping up with her life,” said her mother, Susan Davis. her school work. She takes classes “The opportunity to create memories through Florida Virtual School, has a GPA thanks to the Children’s Dream Fund is of 4.8 and is on track to graduate a year something that our whole family cherishearly with a Bright Futures Scholarship. es.” She is scheduled to begin a new The Children’s Dream Fund, which treatment which will have her spend a was founded in 1981 with the purpose of week in the pediatric ICU at All Children’s fulfilling dreams for children living in West Hospital in St. Petersburg within the next Central Florida with life-threatening illmonth. nesses, has granted wishes for more To learn more about the Children’s than 3,000 children since its inception. Dream Fund, visit www.childrensdreamThe group worked with Rays player Kevin fund.org.

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Page 16

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

GRCC Trick Or Treat Street At Riverview High Offers Spooktacular Family Fun

FREE PARKING

By Ciara ‘CiCi’ Taveras

Join in the BOOooth sponsors Spooktacular festivihave fun dressing up, ties at this year’s Trick decorating their or Treat Street event. BOOooths, distributing The annual event is candy or small toys and presented by the providing many fun, incredible partnership free activities to the chilof the Greater dren of the community. Riverview Chamber Event admission is of Commerce free. Parking is a $5 (GRCC), Hillsborough donation per carload. Photography courtesy of Ed Booth, Huth County Sheriff’s There will be costume and Booth Photography Join in for some Spooktacular family contests (small entry Office, Hillsborough fun at Trick or Treat Street, which will fee applies) for children County Parks & be held on Saturday, October 26 from Recreation and ages 0-15 and your 2-6 p.m. at Riverview High School. Riverview High School. four-legged doggie friends. Contest winThe event will be held on Saturday, ners and runner-ups will be competing for October 26 from 2-6 p.m. at Riverview great prizes. High School. Bring a monster appetite because an The purpose of the GRCC is to creassortment of food vendors plan to be onate a family environment that assures the site. C & J Specialty with fun fair food, success of our community, and its memFuzzy’s Taco Shop, Papa John’s and bers and Trick or Treat Street is one of Kona Ice will ensure there’s something for the finest examples of that purpose. More every ghoul and goblin. than 100 Chamber members, including Christopher Ligori and Associates is local businesses, churches, organizations this year’s Monster Mash sponsor. and volunteers, will come together to Thanks to its generous sponsorship, make this event possible. wristbands for kids’ unlimited play on the James Pulkowski, CPA, P.A. and exciting inflatable units and kids play Michael Broussard of The Flying zone, normally $5, will be distributed for Locksmiths are the co-chairs of the event. free (while supplies last). This is sure to “We want everyone to know this is a fami- make the kids (and parents) jump for joy. ly friendly event supported by your local For more information, visit businesses and the student clubs of www.RiverviewChamber.com or stop by Riverview High School.” the GRCC office located inside the It is the GRCC’s signature event of CenterState Bank building at 10101 the year and has been a staple in the Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview between Riverview community since 1988. 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday-Friday. Call Organizations have the opportunity to 234-5944 or email info@riverviewchamsponsor a BOOooth inside the event. The ber.com for more information.

OCTOBER 17-20 & 24-27 Hours: TH 5 PM – 10 PM | FRI 5 PM – 11 PM SAT 10 AM – 11 PM | SUN 10 AM – 8 PM Tickets: ADULTS $7.00 STUDENTS $5.00 (K-12) SENIORS $4.00 4 & YOUNGER FREE ARENA EVENTS $10.00 + ADMISSION (ADVANCED TICKET SALES INCLUDE ADMISSION)

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October 2019

Page 17

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Family-Owned Pizza Rock In Brandon Remains Set For Expansion

By Tatiana Ortiz

The aroma of homemade sauces, fresh dough, pasta and much cheese and other more. He also ingredients that attended a pizza make up a pizza school located in pie filled the atmosStaten Island, New phere as individuYork called als walked inside Goodfella’s Brick the Pizza Rock in Oven Pizza. O’Brien Brandon. With did master numermore than 30 years ous skills in which a of being in the well-known one restaurant busiwould be his sauce ness, Marty and more. A glimpse of the dining room area of Pizza O’Brien and his Individuals can Rock in Brandon with a wall decor of photographs from Italy. family brings their order a wide variety passion of catering, hosting, cooking and of food and beverage items such as the baking to the tables of those they serve. popular signature pizza called The Fig In addition, Pizza Rock will be expanding and The Pig, which comes in a 12’’ for since the restaurant outgrew its current $15.99 or a 16” for $18.99. It also offers a area for dining and private parties. $28.00 special everyday that includes a Pizza Rock opened 16” pizza with two on October 4, 2018. The toppings, 10 wood 1,600 sq. ft. space can fired and flash fired seat 35 guests, which wings and a 2-liter 15 of those include bar soda. Pizza Rock seating. The expansion does serve an array will include an additional of wines from 900 sq. ft. totaling 2,500 California and Italy, sq. ft. and this will provide 60 more seats along with other alcoholic and non-alcofor private parties. Depending on the holic beverages. menu, prices do vary per individual head “Overall, we want to thank our cuscount in regards to the cost of a private tomers for their continuous support as we party and can be booked by contacting expand,” O’Brien said. the restaurant. Guests will also notice For more information, visit http://pizframed photos along the walls, which dis- zarockbrandon.com. It is located at 401 plays images of Italy and New York. S. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Open Marty O’Brien visited Italy and studMonday through Thursday 12 p.m. – 9 ied for two summers in Rome and p.m. and Friday –Saturday 12 p.m.- 10 Florence as he learned the art of creating p.m. Call 657-7625.

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Page 18

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Toxic Algae Blooms Linked To Dog Deaths By Dr. Jennifer Challenger DVM, MPH You may have heard about pet dogs getting sick and even dying soon after swimming in neighborhood ponds and lakes. These illnesses and deaths have been attributed to toxic algae in the waters. This is by no means a new threat. Algae blooms are common when weather is warmest. Similar to the algae causing red tide on our coasts, bacteria are also causing havoc in our fresh bodies of water. Due to the changing climate, the number of occurrences and intensity of toxic algae blooms in our waters are expected to increase. According to the Environmental Working Group, 2019 is seeing a recordbreaking number of algae blooms when compared to the years prior. Warmer bodies of water combined with lawn and farm nutrient runoff stimulates the growth of algae and triggers the production of toxin. Symptoms of toxic algae exposure seen in pets vary depending on what algae they are exposed to. In some cases, dogs exhibit neurologic symptoms (staggering, drooling or suffering seizures) minutes after exposure. Others may show signs of liver and gastrointestinal damage (vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, not wanting to eat) later in the day. In either case, poisoning may be fatal to your pet.

Immediate veterinary treatment is essential to saving your pet’s life from algae toxin poisoning. Unfortunately, there are no specific cures. They will need to be intensely medically managed for their specific symptoms. To reduce your dog’s risk of being exposed to toxic algae, keep your dog on a leash to prevent her from jumping into a body of water that may have the poisonous bacteria. Keep your dog away from bodies of water that looks slimy or has foam or scum on its surface. Also, avoid bodies of water that have a foul smell or if it has a strange color, like blue, bright green, brown or red. If you think your pet has been exposed to toxic algae, remove them from the source immediately and rinse them off thoroughly with clean water. Make sure to rinse their mouth as well. Monitor for the symptoms mentioned above. It is recommended to take your pet to the veterinarian immediately even if symptoms are not seen right away. Getting ahead of symptoms preventively will always result in a better prognosis when compared to treating a symptomatic pet. Until a permanent solution is found to control algae blooms and their affects, we must remain vigilant on our pets’ exposure to contaminated waters. To find out more information on the toxic effects of Algal blooms and what you can do to minimize your risks, visit www.cdc.gov.

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S A V E


October 2019

Page 19

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Jewelry vendor will be allowed. The fee for a 10 ft. by 10 ft. space is $25. Proceeds help support missions in the community. The market will be outdoors, and ven, dors are asked to proti n a s le helle Co ic M vide their own tent, y b d m Compile preyobserver.co table and chairs. s o @ michelle Food will be available for purchase. For more information and a vendor application, visit www.graceholidaymarSeeking Vendors For Lithia Holiday ket.com, or contact event organizer Market In November Susan Ferraro at Vendors are being sought by Grace bosefer11@yahoo.com or 361-1724. Community United Methodist Church in Lithia for its Holiday Market on Saturday, Bay Life Crop For Missions November 9. The event, from 9 a.m.-2 Bay Life Church announces its 11th p.m., is being presented by the Women annual Fall Crop, benefiting the youth & of Grace. The church is located at 5708 missions of Bay Life Church. Bring your Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. own supplies to work on your paper craftOrganizers are seeking vendors to ing projects in a well-lit and fun atmossell variety of products, such as arts and phere. crafts, jewelry, clothing and The registration fee is tax deductible, and it includes continental breakfast, a home cooked lunch, drinks and snacks all day, plus scrapbook/crop space, swap table, goody bags and door prizes. Each participant will have half of a 5’ round table. Just let us know who you’d like to sit with. This Fall Crop will be held on Friday, October 11, from 6-11p.m. and/or Saturday, October 12 from 9a.m.4:30 p.m. The cost is $30 for Friday night, $40 for Saturday or $60 for both, and electricity is available for more. National companies will a fee of $5 per person. As this is a be on a first-come first-served tax-deductible donation, the registrabasis. For example, only one Mary tion fee is non-refundable. Kay representative or one Premier Crops fill quickly and your space is

eded, e N s r o d Ven Sale n a c e P y Holida & More…

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not reserved until paid in full. Register at www.baylife.org/scrapbooking.

High Holiday Schedule At Congegation Beth Shalom Congregation Beth Shalom will be holding its High Holy services as follows. All community worshippers are welcome. Donations appreciated. Kol Nidre services will be on Tuesday, October 8 at 8 p.m.; Yom Kippur Morning Service, Wednesday, October 9 at 10 a.m.; Yom Kippur Family Service, Wednesday, October 9 at 2:30 p.m.; Yom Kippur Afternoon Service, Wednesday, October 9 at 4 p.m.; Yizkor Memorial Services, Wednesday, September 9 at 5:30 p.m.; and Ne’ilah (conclusion) on Wednesday, September 9 at 6:30 p.m. Join in for Yom Kippur Break the Fast on Wednesday, September 9 following

Ne’ilah service at approximately 7:15 p.m. On Sunday, October 13 at 6 p.m., join in for a bite in the Sukkah. Congregation Beth Shalom is located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Call 6816547 for more information.

UMW Women’s Holiday Pecan Sale Begins The United Methodist Women (UMW) of New Hope UMC will hold its 49th Annual Pecan Sale from Tuesday, October 1 to Friday, November 1. The nuts will be just picked, shelled, and fresh from the orchard. Prices are the same as last year: $45 for a five lb. box of mammoth halves or pieces and $10 for a one lb. bag of mammoth halves. Specialty items will be offered again at the same prices as last year: $12 for pralines in a 16 oz. bag, $12 for chocolate amaretto in a 16 oz. bag and $25 for a 20 oz. assortment in a Christmas tin (including praline, chocolate amaretto and roasted, salted pecan halves). To order, call Mary Baker from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. at 643-4493, email bjbrooks5@gmail.com, or visit www.pecansale.com to order and pay by credit card. Checks payable to UMW can be mailed to P.O. Box 546, Lithia, FL 33547. Only pre-paid items are reserved. Others will be sold on a first come-first served basis. Pickup is on Saturday, November 9 and Monday, November 11 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. at the New Hope Life Center Building on 213 N. Knights Ave. (formerly

the Boys and Girls Club). The annual fundraiser benefits many local missions such as Family Promise, Women’s Resource Center, Cornerstone Ministries, Brandon Life Care and more. For more information, please call Barbara Brooks at 689-7016 or email bjbrooks5@gmail.com.

Estate Sale At Good Samaritan Good Samaritan, a nonprofit Christian ministry, opened its doors on 10 acres in May 1984 to serve those in need in the community. Recently, it streamlined into a mobile ministry and is no longer in need of much of the existing equipment, tools, furniture and other items. An estate sale will be held as a result of this transition. Treasures include furniture, antiques, collectibles and tools; preschool furniture, equipment supplies and playground

equipment; commercial kitchen (stainless steel) equipment, 10-burner gas stove with ovens and three-compartment commercial sink; a 1940 fixer-upper ‘Crackerstyle’ house; and more. It will take place on Friday and Saturday, October 18 and 19 and October 25 and 26, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Good Samaritan is located at 14920 Balm Wimauma Rd. in Wimauma. Call 480-1118.

Regal Railways Presents Toy Train & Collectible, Toy Show A Toy Train, Collectible and Toy Show/Sale will be held on Saturday, November 23 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. All vendors are welcome with any train memorabilia, trains, accessories, baseball cards, crafts, comic books, coins, crafts, antiques, die-cast cars or any other hobby or collectible related items you may be interested in selling. Six ft. tables are $20 each. If interested, call Joe at 727-2441341 or visit www.regalrailways.com to buy a table online.

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Page 20

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

ght u o S s r ito Compet nior Games For Se More… , & by Michelle Colesanti ed com Compil spreyobserver. o @ e ll miche

Newsome Chorus Yard Sale Donations are being collected for Newsome Chorus Yard Sale, which will take place on Saturday, October 12 from 6:30-11 a.m. in front of Newsome High School, located at 16550 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. From small items such as clothes, books and toys to larger items such as furniture and exercise equipment, all is appreciated. Donations can be picked up at your convenience. To coordinate pick up, contact Carol at NewsomeChorusYardSale@gmail.com. Donations will be accepted until Friday, October 11.

Competitors Sought For Hillsborough’s Active Life Games Exercise is great for the body and mind, but is particularly important as we age. The Active Life Games, organized by Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation, help promote physical and mental fitness through an Olympic-style competition that attracts hundreds of adults ages 50 and older each year. The 39th annual competition continues the tradition of offering a variety of contests for all skill and fitness levels. Events range from track and field to cycling to pickleball to billiards, dominoes and horseshoes. Some of the more than two dozen events are qualifiers for state competition. Registration costs $15 for one event, or $25 for unlimited events. There is an additional $25 charge for those participating in the golf competition, which includes a cart. This year’s Games will be held Monday-Friday, October 7-18. In addition to being a lot of fun and a great way to stay in shape, the games serve as a regional qualifier for the Florida Senior Games.

Visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org and search for ‘Active Life Games’ for more information and to register.

Introduce Your Child To The Business World At Kid Entrepreneur Expo

The Tampa Bay HEAT is excited to announce its first ever Mini Merchants Kid Entrepreneur Expo, which will take place on Saturday, October 12 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. This will be a great way to introduce your child (ages 5-18) to the wonderful world of business in a fun, hands-on event. Did you know that kids who are involved with business may develop a better work ethic, foster a stronger respect for money, think creatively, improve their people skills and learn to set goals? Participants will learn to write a business plan starting with a creative idea. They will also learn about marketing, finances, pricing and profits. The expo will take place at New Hope United Methodist Church Gymnasium on 120 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon.

Plant City Community Chorale to Perform FallSong For Fall Concert The Plant City Community Chorale will present its annual fall concert, FallSong, at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 12 at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. The Chorale, under the direction of Claudia Bolaño Becerra, will perform beautiful spiritual pieces such as Hold, Me, Rock Me and Lord Make Me an Instrument of Thy Peace. Favorites like 42nd Street and When I Fall In Love will have you smiling and humming along while El Grillo (The Cricket) will have you tapping your toes along to the jazzy samba beat. Additionally, the chorale will feature soprano Emma Stamper, who was selected for the National Honor Choir by the American Choral Directors Association. Tickets are available at www.pccchorale.org, from any Chorale member or by calling 965-7213. Advance tickets are $12. Tickets at the door are $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12 and any student with a student ID.

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Newsome Ice Wolves Host Golf Tournament Newsome Ice Wolves Host Golf Tournament The Newsome High School hockey team, the Ice Wolves, is hosting its fifth annual golf tournament next month at the River Hills Country Club. The event, a fourperson scramble, will take place starting at 12 Noon on Saturday, November 16. Players can enjoy a lunch and Bloody Mary Bar followed by a shotgun start at 1 p.m. The event will end with a dinner and awards ceremony at 6 p.m. and there will be many prizes, a 50/50 raffle and golfer swag bags. Sponsorship opportunities are available. The deadline to register teams is Saturday, November 6. To learn more, contact Steve Harrity at 4166631 or email events@newsomeicewolves.com.

Volume 18, Issue 10

awards banquet. The tournament, a scramble format, will include a basketball team member as caddy for each foursome, postgame meal, awards, door prizes, raffles and silent auction. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Make checks payable to Newsome Athletic Booster Club. Mail to Newsome Boys Basketball c/o Derek Bean at 6114 Kestrelridge Dr., Lithia FL 33547.

Tickets On Sale For Newsome Theatre Performance Of Steel Magnolias The Newsome High School Theatre will present Robert Harling’s Steel Magnolias on the weekend of November

Play Golf To Help Newsome Boys Basketball The Newsome Boys Basketball program is hosting its 16th Annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, October 26 at Bloomingdale Golfers Club. Registration is from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for a 1 p.m. shotgun start. Proceeds from this event provide the basketball program with equipment, team camp entries and an end of the year

7 on the school’s main stage. Show times are 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 7; and Friday, November 8; and 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 9. Presale tickets, available at www.newsometheatre.ticketleap.com, are $8 for adults and $5 for students, or $10 for general admission at the door.


October 2019

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 21

Not So Scary Family Fun At Area’s Zoo, Museums And Theme Parks

Compiled by Michelle Colesanti

With the arrival of fall, there is a lot of ‘spooktacular’ family-friendly fun that you can find locally. Here are a few ideas to keep the fun going through the holiday season.

Florida Aquarium’s Guppyween Will Take You To Codwarts School of Fishcraft And Squidery The Florida Aquarium’s Guppyween will take place Saturday and Sunday, October 26 and 27 from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Your presence is requested at the Codwarts School of Fishcraft and Squidery in The Florida Aquarium. Young wizards will be sorted into their Codwarts House before embarking on a quest to further their Fishcraft knowledge. Dazzling treats and magical adventures await you. All exhibits will be open, including the 4-D Theater and kids’ water play zone, The Splash Pad. The cost for kids in costume is $10 (purchased at the Aquarium). It is regular admission price for adults. A special Guppyween will take place on Saturday, October 26 from 89:30 a.m. for families and children with sensory differences to trick-or-treat throughout the Aquarium in a low stress environment. Doors will open at 8 a.m. for Sensory Guppyween guests only, with lights and sounds adapted for individuals with sensory differences and their families. There cost for Sensory Guppyween is $5 per person if purchased before the event and $8 per person on day of event. The Florida Aquarium is located at 701 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. Visit www.flaquarium.org for more information.

family. Creatures emerge at dusk with startling surprises around every corner. No horror, no gore, just fun frights for all. Younger guests will enjoy a festive fall harvest complete with a pumpkin patch, scarecrows and friendly farm animals. Zoo Tampa is located at 1101 W Sligh Ave. in Tampa. Visit https://zootampa.org/.

LEGOLAND’S BrickOr-Treat Returns On weekends in October, celebrate the spookiest time of the year with trick-or-treating, exclusive character meet-and-greet and spooktacular treats. The kids will enjoy the Brick-orTreat Trail where they can journey through the themed trail with their very own Brick-orTreat bag to pick up lots of scrumptious candy. Meet exclusive Halloween LEGO characters, enjoy a Scavenger Hunt and watch The Tale of Pirates’ Cove Fireworks Spectacular. LEGOLAND is located at One LEGOLAND Way in Winter Haven. Visit www.legoland.com.

Zoo Tampa’s Family Fright Fest Celebrates Halloween Season Creatures of the Night, Tampa Bay's premier family Halloween even, returns every Friday and Saturday from 4-10 p.m. in October. After 4 p.m., the Zoo transforms into an eerie and immersive Halloween adventure for the whole

Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular Get your favorite costume ready and make your

plans to live it up—collecting candies, sweets and delightful treats—all while Magic Kingdom park thrills and chills you with special fireworks, eerie entertainment and Disney Characters that go bump in the night. Best of all: since this event is ‘“not-so-scary’ and children of every age can enjoy the fun. Don’t miss this dazzling spectacular which features state-of-the-art projection effects, lasers, light and fireworks during Mickey’s NotSo-Scary Halloween Party which is offered on select nights through Friday, November 1.

Monster Mash Along The River At Glazer’s Children’s Museum Show off your most creative costume at the Glazer Children’s Museum (GCM) Halloween Spree. on Saturday, October 26 from 4-8 p.m. GMC has partnered with the Tampa Riverwalk to make this the ultimate Halloween party. Monster mash along the river and then bring your little ghouls and goblins to GCM to enjoy safe, indoor trick-or-treating, spooky experiments, creepy crafts, costume parades and more. Tickets cost $5 (members free) and are available now and at the door. GCM is participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project. Your little ones will receive non-edible goodies at stations with a teal pumpkin. On Sunday, October from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., GCM will host a Sensory-Friendly Halloween Spree. All programs will be featured as well as trick-or-treating with lights and sounds turned down and sensory adapted tools. Sunshine Sunday is a limited-

engagement event for children with special needs and caregivers. Children can explore the Museum with lights and sounds turned down and sensory adapted tools, special programs, and

community resources at their fingertips. It’s during this time that children and their families can experience the Museum and unite with others on a similar journey. The Glazer Children’s Museum is located at 110 W Gasparilla Plaza in Tampa. Visit https://glazermuseum.org/event/halloweenspree2019.

Hop Aboard Haunted River Tours On Tampa’s Pirate Taxi Hop aboard the Pirate Water Taxi for a frighteningly good time on the water. On select nights in October come aboard for tales of ghosts and haunted facts along the Hillsborough River. Each tour will be led by a deadlightful docent who will entertain you with spooky stories of Tampa’s past. New this year, a batty fiend will hop on the taxi for new thrills. Cruises are kid-friendly and take

place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night in October. Departures are located by the Tampa Convention Center where Pirate Taxi dock stop #7. Tickets start at $25 for the 45 minute haunted cruise. To purchase tickets, visit www.piratewatertaxi.com/events/haunt ed-river-tour.


Page 22

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

Let The Good Times Grow At The 2019 Greater Hillsborough County Fair

Cyber Security Luncheon Hosted By Greater Riverview Chamber Of Commerce

The 2019 pumpkin and a hay Greater Hillsborough ride. County Fair is right The fair simply around the corner. has something for The fair will take everyone, from carniplace over two weekval rides and fair food ends beginning on to livestock shows, Thursday, October art, photography and 17. This year’s theme a historical is ‘Let the Good Times 2019 Greater Hillsborough County Fair. Hometown Grow.’ The fair will run Thursday through Hillsborough area. With a focus on farmSunday (October 17-20 and 24-27). The ing and agricultural history, Hometown fair is located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. Hillsborough is the perfect location to host in Dover. this year’s Rancher Roundup, 4H cooking Admission to the fair is $7 for adults, competition and cattlewoman’s cook-off. $5 for students K-12 and $4 for seniors. Free entertainment includes Children 5 years and younger are free. Robinson’s Racing and Swimming Pigs, Parking is free. Ride armbands are availFirefighter Show and Family Thrill Circus. able for $20 or $15 online at Grandstand events, which cost $10 www.HillsboroughCountyFair.com. plus admission, include the rodeo on New this year is the Megapass. It Friday and Saturday, October 18 and 19. includes unlimited admission and unlimitThe Truck and Tractor Pull will take place ed rides during the entire fair. The on Friday and Saturday, October 25 and Megapass, as well as other discounted 26. The famous Demolition Derby will tickets and ticket packages, can be purround out the grandstand events on chased at Sunday, October 27. www.HillsboroughCountyFair.com. You There is always something going on will not want to miss Dollar Days at the in the entertainment pavilion. This year, fair on Thursday, October 17 and 24. Fair the stage will feature fan favorite Born admission is only $1 and each carnival Lonesome with local artist Royce Burt. ride is $1. Each Sunday, area churches will perform Also new this year is the new fair in the Gospel Jam. This year’s children’s ambassador, Farmer Sydney, who will pageant will be held on October 19 and travel to Hillsborough County schools to the baby parade will be held on October deliver seeds and show children how to 27. plant their very own gardens. During the Purchasing tickets in advance to the fair, children will have the opportunity to fair results in savings as the fair offers a join Farmer Sydney’s Kids Club. multitude of options. For more on tickets Membership includes an opportunity to and dates and times of events, please meet Farmer Sydney, a fair food treat, a visit www.HillsboroughCountyFair.com.

Automaker security. Every day Henry Ford once it seems we see said, “The only real another case of security that a man ransomware or can have in this another data world is a reserve breach and leaked of knowlstolen information edge, expeout there that could rience and have been preventability.” ed by ensuring the Matthew right people, On Thursday, October 10 at 9 Lundgren processes and a.m. at The Regent, would Defensorem IT, in conjunction technology were in with the Riverview Chamber, will place.” agree with be hosting ‘The Changing Face of Cyber Mr. Ford because Defensorem Security Threats: How Business Owners he, too, has wealth IT, in conjunction and Executives Can Effectively Manage Today's Cyber Security Risks and Protect with the Greater of knowledge in Their Digital Assets. security. Lundgren Riverview is the co-founder and chief operating offiChamber of Commerce, will be hosting cer of Defensorem IT, which is a Service‘The Changing Face of Cyber Security Disabled Veteran-owned local business. Threats: How Business Owners and “Defensorem is Latin for ‘protector or Executives Can Effectively Manage defender’ and our company was created Today's Cyber Security Risks and Protect by my business partner, Clint Maddox, a Their Digital Assets’ information session retired Marine Corps officer, and I,” on Thursday, October 10th at 9 a.m. at Lundgren said. “From our experiences on The Regent in Brandon. This information active duty, being federal employees and session is free and open to the public. working in corporate environments, we “This is free event we are hosting for saw a need and opportunity for us to pro- local businesses to learn about the vide meaningful services in a very imporchanging face of cyber security risks and tant market. So, in 2017, we opened what businesses of all sizes can do to Defensorem IT and have been providing help secure themselves and help mitigate IT services to the Department of Defense, risk,” Lundgren said. “It’s a non-technical federal and commercial market.” event so that everyone can understand Lundgren and Maddox believe the growing threats and what they can do strongly in supporting the local businessto protect their business and themselves. es here in the area and want to provide We have cyber security experts coming in them cost-effective solutions based on from several different organizations to what they need to align with their busispeak on the current threats.” ness goals and to help them mitigate If you are interested in attending the against the growing cyber security risks. free information session, you can register “Cyber security is more in demand as at www.tampaitevent.com. A free lunch we become more connected and more will also be provided at 12 Noon after the reliant these days and more and more information session. personal information is linked online,” If you’d like to learn more about the Lundgren said. “The hackers and bad services offered at Defensorem IT, you actors out there are actively targeting the can visit its website at www.defen‘easy’ targets, which are in many cases soremit.com or call Lundgren at 949-547small and medium businesses that 9817. The Regent is located at 6437 haven’t given much thought to cyber Watson Rd. in Riverview.

By Kathy L. Collins

4th Annual Bras for a Cause Poker Run Saturday, October 12th Poker Run 10:30 - 2:30 Fundraising & After Party 3:00 - 6:00 Don’t ride a motorcycle? That’s ok all forms of transportation welcome! See Facebook Pink Power Divas for tickets and more info. Benefitting Breast Cancer Awareness and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Hillsborough County

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By Libby Hopkins


October 2019

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 23


Page 24

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10


See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 October 2019

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

www.ospreyobserver.com

Newsome High School Grads Blog About Lifestyle Tour Of 61 National Parks By Kate Quesada Lauren and Steven Keys logged more than 34,000 miles in their van in seven months earlier this year, but they saw some pretty amazing sites while doing it. The couple, both of whom grew up in the Brandon area and graduated from Newsome High School, visited all of the United States’ 61 national parks between January and August without spending a significant amount of money. They detailed their journey, with tips and suggestions for readers, on their blog, Trip of a Lifestyle. “We love to travel and this was something that we have always wanted to do,” said Lauren, who left her job before the trip but was able to develop a photography and freelance business while on the road. “We hope that by sharing our experience on our blog we can inspire other people to follow their own similar goals.” The Keys, who are high school sweethearts, left Florida on January 7 in their Nissan NV200 cargo van, which they equipped with a full-size bed. Their plan was to stay in the warmer states throughout the winter and move northward as the weather warmed up. “That was a good plan in theory,” said Steven. “But between the fact that it was a really cold winter and the government shut down, which meant that we couldn’t access some of the parks when we planned to, we had to be flexible.”

Their trip our goal is for it took them [to] cost us next 34,000 miles in to nothing,” said their van, which Steven. “We they drove to plan and save Alaska in June, far in advance and on multiple so that even flights, including though we keep chartered bush our expenses flights, and boat low, we have a rides to accombuffer to fall plish their goal back on if necof seeing every essary. Our savone of the ings give us the parks. freedom to really Budgeting make our goals and making Lauren and Steven Keys visited all 61 United States a reality.” good financial Lauren and national parks between January and August this year. They detailed their experiences on their blog and choices are Steven share hope to inspire others to take similar trips. very important many of their to the Keys, who describe themselves as financial tips, and even expense reports, diligent savers. on their blog and found ways to continue “Whenever we take a trip like this, to make an income, mostly by taking

freelance jobs, while on the road. They encourage anyone interested in traveling to plan and save in advance, but say that although a significant savings account is helpful, it is not necessary. The blog also contains details about their time in each park, along with fun and artistic shots from each area. “I made it a goal to get one really fantastic image from each park,” said Lauren, who has developed a business offering photography at weddings and events since returning from the trip. When asked which of the parks was their favorite, the Keys were easily able to answer thanks to a ranked list they put together on their trip taking into account three main factors. “We looked at three things in deciding how to rank the parks,” said Lauren. “We started with the ‘Wow Factor,’ meaning how much the park amazed us; but also took into consideration the ‘Fun Factor,’ what there was to do there; and the ‘Solitude Factor,’ because we found ourselves really enjoying the places that let us get away and have time to ourselves to think.” To learn more about the Keys’ trip, follow their blog at www.tripofalifestyle.com. Visit www.keysphotography.com/art to see and purchase photographs from the trip. Use the coupon code BACKFX at the checkout to receive a discount until Friday, November 15.


Page 26

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

Holistic Health And Wellness Coach Offers Community A Healthy Lifestyle

James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital Hosts Making A Difference Day For Local Veterans

Webster’s selves during the postDictionary defines partum and early moth‘uprooted’ as ‘Being erhood transition.” pulled up by the Schuman’s journey roots’ or ‘To be disstarted in 2011 when placed from a tradishe realized there had tional habitat.’ To to be a more proactive Alexa Schuman, alternative to wellness ‘uprooted’ means ‘A than the current state of movement; approach that had a movement toward become normal to socia more enjoyable ety. life.’ “I believe these Schuman is a essential components holistic health and of wellness are vital to wellness coach a balanced, mindful Alexa Schuman created Uprooted life. That’s how who lives in the Wellness to share her passion for Uprooted Wellness FishHawk area. the wellness movement. To learn She is also the more, visit Schuman’s website at began. I look at the owner of Uprooted www.uprootedwellness.com or call current state of our her at 454-2951. Wellness. health and want to be a “I’m a certified part of the solution,” integrative nutrition Schuman said. “I offer health coach, holispersonal health coachtic wellness educaing, which is the best tor and plant-based way to create successcooking instructor,” ful nutrition and lifestyle Schuman said. “I modifications.” absolutely love Her programs are what I do. I am designed to provide passionate about education and support. shifting the per“During this time, spective around we work through all of health and empowthe aspects of wellering women to be ness, navigate the their best selves world of contradictory through mindful nutrition and health eating, conscious advice to explore what living and natural truly works for the indihealing.” vidual as they integrate She specializes small, gradual and susin women’s health tainable changes,” and helping them Schuman said. “The find balance, as most effectiveness well as connecting occurs when I am able them back to their to utilize the recomintuition. She also mendations from and helps families intepartner with their physigrate new, positive cian.” diet and lifestyle Wellness changes. Workshops are “I love supporting mothers, workdesigned to educate guests on variing together to create a balanced ous aspects of maintaining healthy nourishing foundation for babies, tod- eating habits and how to integrate dlers and children, as well as involvthis lifestyle into their own. ing the whole family,” Schuman said. “Topics range from mindful eat“It’s never too early to cultivate a ing, conscious living, everyday modisense of being healthy in all areas of fications for balance, to work-life life. This role has allowed me to supstress reduction, movement and port women in optimizing their fertilibeyond,” Schuman said. ty, nurturing the body for a healthy Visit www.uprootedwellness.com pregnancy and nourishing themor call 454-2951.

President Served project,” John F. Kennedy Schoenborn said. once said, “We “The Medical Foster must find time to Home program prostop and thank vides placement for the people who approximately 60 make a differnon-service conence in our nected veterans lives.” Shelby who are dependSchoenborn ent, chronically or would agree with terminally ill with Voluntary Services at James President limited family and A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital Kennedy’s statefinancial support.” in Tampa is hosting the Homeward Bound for those ment. The items that Who Served program. Schoenborn is are most needed the voluntary service specialist at James for the project are body wash, razors, A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa. book lights, CD players, large print books, Schoenborn and her team are coordinatsocks, sunscreen and VISA gift cards. ing an event at the hospital called “We’ve got 60 patients in Medical Foster Homeward Bound for those who served. Homes in the area and seeking as much It will be taking place on Saturday, as we can to help those homes stock up October 26, which is Make a Difference for the year,” Schoenborn said. Day. “Make a Difference Day was develDonors may drop off items to oped in 1992 by USA Weekend Voluntary Service at the James A. Haley Magazine, now managed by USA Today,” Veterans’ Hospital at 13000 Bruce B. Schoenborn said. “The goal was to get Downs Blvd. in Tampa between 9 a.m.-4 people in their free time on a specific day p.m., Monday-Friday, or email of each year making a difference in their Schoenborn at communities. James A. Haley Veterans’ Shelby.Schoenborn@va.gov to schedule Hospital adopted the program in 2006 as a time outside those hours. Donations are a mechanism to helping veterans in med- needed by Friday, October 4. If you ical foster care get items they need and would like to deliver the items in person to want.” the veterans on Make a Difference Day, Support from the community makes it you will need to register with Schoenborn possible for Shoenborn and her team to through her email address. “We hope to provide extra niceties to veterans residing show gratitude to America’s heroes in medical foster homes to enhance their through this program,” Schoenborn said. quality of life. “We hope that the Brandon “It offers up a moment to a veteran who is community will join us this year to support homebound to get recognized by the the Homeward Bound for those Who community.”

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Page 27

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Howl-O-Scream 2019 ‘20 Years of Fear’ Staff Report This fall season, triumphant screams you can take your of vampires and the ‘scare’ factor to new sobbing moans of heights when Howl-Otheir victims. Climb Scream 2019 into a coffin but your unearths long-buried photo may be all that icons of the past and comes out. new nightmares as Check out Camp Busch Gardens Doa, where campers Tampa Bay celebrates are snatched from On select nights through Friday, ‘20 Years of Fear’ with their idyllic dreams to November 2, take your scare factor to sinister surprises at new heights at Busch Gardens Tampa become ghostly stars every turn. of living nightmares. Bay’s ’20 Years of Fear.’ Brave souls can venture through horIn a post-apocalypse world, the surly rifying houses, terrifying scare zones and survivors will stop at nothing for food and thrilling roller coaster rides in the dark. supplies, destroying all who stand in their For select nights through Saturday, way. Can you run the gauntlet of a murNovember 2, you will run for your life as derous crazed biker gang to make it out gruesome ghouls emerge alive? from their tombs to twist your Go backstage at the daydreams into nightmares. Maniac Midway, the ‘scariest Several haunted houses show on earth’ with Sparky will await your demise, but the and his terrifying carnie crew scares don’t stop there. as they take over Pantopia Unspeakable horror lives in making the midway their own every dark corner, including stage of torture. on Busch Gardens’ pulseRide on Busch Gardens pounding thrill rides that are overrun with Tampa Bay’s roller coasters as creatures creatures riding alongside their soon-tofrom your nightmares haunt the attracbe-victims. tions. Experience Tigris, Cobra’s Curse, The horrors of Howl-O-Scream’s Falcon’s Fury, Cheetah Hunt, Montu, haunted past are the first frights to greet SheiKra and Kumba all night. you, rising from the dead and bringing 20 Choose from experiences like guided years of fear back to life, or take a creepy VIP Tours, front-of-the-line access with walk down memory lane to the bygone the Front Line Fear pass, dinner and a era of papier-mâché masks and homefreakish show at Fright Feast or a VIP made costumes sure to stir up the nighttour. mares of your childhood. Busch Gardens is located at 3000 E. There is plenty new this year. The Busch Blvd. in Tampa. Visit eerie quiet of Carpe Noctem, a gothic https://buschgardens.com/tampa/events/h Romanian cemetery, is shattered by the owl-o-scream.

Veterans And Dogs Get A Second Chance Together With K9 Partners For Patriots

By Taylor Wells

With over purpose and commit20 veterans ment. committing sui“These dogs are cide each day much more than a pet; because of these dogs are a bridge post-traumatic to get them into a better stress disorder position in life,” said (PTSD), trauGregg Laskoski, the matic brain communications director injury (TBI) of K9 P4P. and military K9 P4P helps not sexual trauma only veterans, but also (MST), many dogs that have been of them abandoned, mistreated need help or neglected. Taken from with getting shelters and rescues through Mary Peter, CMDT and K9 P4P’s founder after confirming they can their everyday help veterans with and CEO, with a K9 P4P service dog. lives. K9 Partners for Patriots, Inc. (K9 PTSD, TBI or MST by alerting positively P4P) has made this its mission, and it to adrenaline levels rising from stress, has helped tremendously. each dog can get a new chance at life. In 2013, Mary Peter, Certified Master With 786 veterans applied to proDog Trainer and K9 P4P’s founder and gram, 334 members, 224 graduates and CEO, was teaching classes at Stillwater 132 dogs rescued, the nonprofit has Dog Training, Inc. when she noticed vethelped hundreds. Its first participant, Ron erans were enrolling but not engaging in Flaville, now the COO and a veteran liaithe classes or soon dropping out. son, has made significant progress. Realizing the need for a service dog train“He has done so well that his dog, ing program focused on helping veterans Sophia, doesn’t have to come with him like them, she opened K9 P4P. every single day to work. Sophia is someK9 P4P is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dediwhat semiretired, is how he puts it,” said cated to aiding pre and post-9/11 veterLaskoski. ans with a 19-week training course where To help K9 P4P, you can become a they will train their dogs at the organizafoster caregiver and share your home tion’s location, rather than wait a couple with future service dogs until they can years and spend thousands of dollars on start training. Visit www.k9partnersforpatria pre-trained service dog. There are neiots.com. K9 P4P is located at 15322 ther waiting lists nor charges to veterans. Aviation Loop Dr. in Brooksville and is By training their own service dogs, open Mon-Thurs from 8:30 a.m.-3:00 veterans can gain a renewed sense of p.m.

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Page 28

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

From One Blank Canvas, Don Quixote Comes To Life By Kelly Smith

Sometimes it helps to have a visual, especially when telling a story. Enter Geff Strik, The Florida Orchestra’s first-ever visual artist-in-residence. For TFO’s upcoming performance of Strauss’ Don Quixote, Strik started with the musical score, covered with handwritten notes from Music Director Michael Francis, and 29 sketches. When he picked up his paintbrush, he used only one 10-by-5-foot canvas, painting each scene on top of the other—the earlier works hidden underneath. But they’re not totally gone. The whole process was captured through video and carefully crafted into a 42minute, high-definition art film synchronized to the music, which Maestro Francis will conduct live on stage for only one weekend, October 11-13. The concert also features internationally acclaimed cello soloist Maximilian Hornung as well as Beethoven’s Eroica

Symphony (a rare performance of the Mahler version). TFO’s commitment to this kind of innovation, collaboration and accessibility is why TFO named Strik as its first-ever visual artist-in-residence. Strik is an acclaimed French artist who now lives in St. Petersburg. “Innovation is a key part of what we do. It’s in our DNA,” said Mark Cantrell, TFO president and CEO. “We believe no other American orchestra is doing anything like this at this level. We are leading the way, giving audiences new ways to engage with the music.” TFO has more upcoming multimedia concerts, including: National Geographic Live JANE In Concert (Nov. 2): Based on 100 hours of unseen footage, the revealing documentary of Jane Goodall and her chimpanzee research plays on the big screen while the orchestra performs the score by Philip Glass LIVE at the Straz Center. Deep Field: A Cosmic Experience (Nov. 8-10): Composer Eric Whitacre leads TFO for Deep Field, his own fusion of live music and Hubble space video, featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. It’s a stellar night of live music including works from Bernstein and Copland. Free tickets for kids and teens in advance. For details and tickets, visit FloridaOrchestra.org.

10/31/19.

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Locally Owned & Operated

Volume 18, Issue 10

Gather Family For Fall Fun & Hayrides At Wolfe’s Family Produce

By Michelle Colesanti

The corner of Friday through Bloomingdale and Sunday, October 11US Hwy. 301 will 13, 18-20 and 25-27 once again be from 6:30-9:30 p.m. transformed into a The hayrides will also perfect family fall take place on two gathering place as ‘bonus nights’ right Wolfe’s Family before Halloween on Produce becomes Tuesday and home to one of Wednesday, the area’s largest pumpkin October 28 and patches. 29, from 6:30-8:30 This, along with its p.m. There will be famous Halloween Hayrides free candy and on its 13 acres, promises fun you are welcome for the entire family. to wear your cosThe owners are twin tume. Hayrides brothers Jeff and Jonathan are $7 per perWolfe. The pair graduated son. Wolfe’s Produce, located at 6005 Riverview High School in The pumpkin US Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview. 2003, and both were involved with the patch is open every day from October 1agriculture and 4-H programs. The broth31 from 8:30 a.m. to closing time. ers have run this great family-owned busi- Pumpkins are received in split loads all ness since May 2008. Year-round, they through the month. That way, when you manage and run the stand offering fresh purchase your pumpkin, you will have produce, hot boiled peanuts, honey and better choices of size and they will be other products from local vendors. fresh. This will be the 10th year that the Jeff said, “We get a huge selection brothers have offered the hayrides in with all shapes and sizes available from addition to the pumpkin patch, and they mini to monster-sized pumpkins.” are proud of the business they have creJeff and Jonathan are both married ated. Each year, more decorations and with children and are proud to be building lights are added to the trail. their family-owned business alongside “We have 13 acres of trails and thou- their families. sands of pumpkins to choose from, and it Wolfe’s Produce is open from 8:30 is great to see all the families come a.m.-7 p.m. beginning on Thursday, through,” said Jeff. “We offer fresh proOctober 1 and is located at 6005 US duce and local products for families.” Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview (on the corner The hayrides are scheduled to run of 301 and Bloomingdale Ave.). Call 927the last three weekends in October— 2203 or 927-2204 for more information.


October 2019

Page 29

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Danielle Fence & Outdoor Living Can Make Your Outdoor Spaces Come Alive

By Taylor Wells

If you are and fit together. looking for a This way, all high-quality modifications can fence and outbe made in the door living design phase area, you can before setting up. count on “We tend to Danielle focus a little Fence & more on what Outdoor you want this to Living to help be,” said your resiOperations dence come Manager Doug alive outside. Hall. “What is it Locally owned Danielle Fence & Outdoor Living While particuyou’re trying to has been in business more than 60 years. larly well-known for its fences and fencing accomplish here, how much of that are products, it also provides other great outyou prepared to do now; so let’s draw door products like outdoor kitchens, and plan for it, and then ultimately we can screen rooms, paver patios, railings, do it all at once, we can do it essentially arbors, gazebos, fire features and much in phases, however you want to do it, more. plus we’ll manage all that.” Established in 1976, Danielle Fence The company is well-known for its is a locally and family-owned and operatinstallation and customer service. When it ed business that offers the highest quality schedules a time its employees can start materials and products, over 60 trained working, they will be there as scheduled, professionals, no subcontracted labor and rain or shine. Installation is fast too, as a history of excellence. everything can get set up within a day. Danielle Fence also has plenty of Moreover, its warranties are among options to choose from. With its wide the best, offering 50-year and lifetime selection of products comes detailed warranties along with a one-year labor color specifications and many choices of warranty wherein it will fix anything that is materials, so you can surely find somedefective because of the installation or thing that will fit your needs. natural causes like high winds, no charge. Of course, many options can make it That is all combined with its high-quality hard to choose how to set up your outmaterials and products. door living area, but Danielle Fence can Danielle Fence is open Mondayhelp with that as well. The company can Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and is located create 3D designs based on where cusat 4855 SR 60 W. in Mulberry. Visit tomers want to build, removing much of www.daniellefence.com or call 681-6181 the guesswork on how things will look or toll-free at 800-255-6794.

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Local Clinic Receives Funding From CVS Health Foundation

By Kathy L. Collins

The Outreach instructions on how Clinic was one of to apply for these seven free clinics programs and most across Florida to of them cannot follow receive funding from through the compliCVS Health cated application Foundation. The process due to barrigrant is a part of the ers facing the low CVS Health income. These Foundation's ongoing include lack of comeffort to make quality puters, printers or fax The Outreach Clinic has been providing machines and generhealthcare convenmuch needed healthcare to uninsured ient and affordable for al understanding of residents for 30 years. more Americans. the complicated guidelines." The Outreach Clinic, located in "We kept seeing the same patients Brandon, received $20,000 to create a getting discharged from the hospital. We Medical Home Placement and soon realized that that they could not Management Program that will allow case complete the process for eligibility. Since managers to identify and assist newly dis- they were unable to get approved, they charged hospital patients in managing the continued to have no access to healthchallenges uninsured patients often face care and continue to come to our clinic," when placed into a medical home. said Meegan. Deborah Meegan, the executive "This program allows our case mandirector of The Outreach Clinic, said, agers to assist individuals with the appli"This program will focus on the complicat- cations, thereby increasing the approval ed challenges uninsured patients have rate and allowing them to access a medwhen they are discharged from the hospi- ical home and expedite the ongoing care tal. It will allow case managers to identify they need to manage their health; it and assist patients in the completion of allows us to save our resources for online and phone applications for patients who are not eligible for services Medicaid, Social Security Disability and elsewhere," added Meegan. Hillsborough County Heath Care while The Outreach Clinic is a local being cared for at our clinic." resource that is vitally needed in the comMeegan added, "Timely placement munity. Approximately 15 percent of indiinto an appropriate medical home would viduals living in Hillsborough County do facilitate follow up care and reduce readnot have health insurance. mission to the hospital while improving The Outreach Clinic is located at 517 health outcomes for these individuals." N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon and has Meegan explained why this program been serving the community for 30 years. is needed. "Currently, patients are given Please visit www.theoutreachclinic.com.

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Page 30

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

aluzak Mrs. WGrade 2nd

Jacquelyn Waluzak

Bevis Colleen tary n Eleme l Schoo

Teacher Of The Month

a teacher? Why did you decide to become teacher, Mrs. Gancarz. She I had a wonderful kindergarten to differentiate the learnhow ning fun and knew lear de y ma B d re o Spons dents. I would play school ing to meet the needs of her stu of the teacher, mimicking with my siblings, playing the role Signature I had another phenomenal her methods. In fourth grade, e d a dified my decision to W teacher, Mrs. Jackson, who soli up. become a teacher when I grew the teachers are That year, I learned that not all e the same hav n’t did er sist n same, as my twi felt it in my heart learning experience as I did. I was what I that becoming a teacher like her ome a bec to was meant to do. I strived nce in the ere diff a kes teacher who truly ma luzak Wa rs. "M k, thin student’s lives and ed acaect exp the just n tha re taught me mo ate sion demics. She taught me to be pas long life nt, nde about life. To be an indepe t. dse min wth gro learner with a positive up. s give er nev and s One who persevere e the best She inspired [me] be to becom me I could be." Mrs . Waluz ak has b e

en for over t would 14 yearsa teacher What is something about you tha . be a surprise to your students? e ativ cre a ned ear also I , on degree Along with my general educati s arts and . I love and appreciate the variou ree deg ss ine bus a and arts degree wing up. ran several businesses while gro

why? What is your favorite book and You Filled a my students each year is Have h wit d rea to ks My favorite boo k has changed boo ly Happiness for Kids. This Bucket Today? A Guide to Dai ior. hav /be classroom management my perspective on how I handle saying? What is your favorite quote or e thinking is (because) the power of positiv did she so ld cou as of life. She believed she are all st important key to success in truly incredible and pry the mo

School District Solicits Input From Community About New Superintendent By Brad Stager was also cited. As for what attendees wanted in a new school leader, characteristics such as a collaborative management style and a commitment to conducting the district’s business with integrity and holding people accountable for their A few dozen people attended a community forum at Bloomingdale High School to provide input about the hiring of a new superintendent for Hillsborough County schools.

The process of hiring a new superintendent to lead Hillsborough County’s public schools has begun, with the process including input from the public online and at community forums such as the one that took place on September 17 at Bloomingdale High School. A few dozen parents, school district employees and interested residents told a consultant hired by the district to facilitate the hiring process what they want to see in the new superintendent who will replace the departing Jeff Eakins. The meeting was facilitated by Sandi Gero of Ray and Associates, a company specializing in educational recruitment that is conducting the national search. Gero said hiring a new superintendent is a task that should not be undertaken casually. “It is the most important job your school board embarks upon.” While most of the meeting was devoted to collecting input regarding the qualities expected of a new superintendent, Gero began by asking the audience why someone from outside of the Tampa area would want to move here. The answers highlighted the district’s range of school—urban, suburban and rural—as well as the high quality of its teachers and staff who work in them. The variety of academic programs such as advanced placement courses and magnet schools

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actions were mentioned. Some audience members said the ability to properly manage the district’s infrastructure, especially ensuring adequate air conditioning, is needed. Supporting and providing engaging educational opportunities to a diverse student population, in terms of race, socio-economic standing, gender/sexual orientation as well as physical and cognitive abilities, was also mentioned. Jacqueline Haynes, who is director of the district’s 50 achievement schools (schools identified as needing greater district support), said closing the gap between highachieving students and those who are struggling is important. “We have to level the playing field for our students.” Audience members were also invited to submit names of people who they thought would do a good job. The information gathered at community forums and online submissions will be presented to the school board in October, with the recruiting process expected to last to the end of 2019, and a new superintendent will be selected at the beginning of 2020, according to Gero.

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October 2019

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 31

Bell Creek Academy Hosts A Night Under The Seas And Stars

Newsome Student Honors 9/11 Victims With 2,977 Flags For Project

learning about the seas. “The school has a 200gallon touch tank that it purchased three years ago, so I’ve added access to that as part of the night,” said Gregos. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the sea life in the touch tank, which currently includes sea stars, serpent stars, horseshoe carbs, hermit crabs, feather duster Students from the Seas Club will be on hand to talk worms and sea urchins. about the sea life living in the 200-gallon touch tank. The Seas Club students Bell Creek Academy will be hosting a will be there to talk about these creatures Seas and Stars event on Thursday, and answer questions. October 24 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This In addition to the telescopes and unique experience will allow the commutouch tank, guests can view students’ scinity to come in and learn about astronoence experiments, which will be on dismy and biology and see what the stuplay. dents at Bell Creek Academy are learn“We love this opportunity to bring the ing. community in to see all that Bell Creek The astronomy portion of the night Academy has to offer,” said Gregos. will feature two giant telescopes for viewKona Ice will be serving up tasty ing that are being provided by MOSI. A shaved ice treats and the PTSO will also representative will be on hand to talk be hosting a book fair during the event. about what is available for viewing on that Access to Seas and Stars is just $5 at the particular night. door, with a portion of proceeds being “One year we saw the rings of donated to the American Red Cross for Saturn!” said Event Coordinator hurricane relief efforts. Catherine Gregos. Bell Creek Academy Middle and High Gregos is a biology and science School is a local charter school whose teacher at the school and has been mission is to create a challenging proinvolved in this extracurricular event since gram for students with a focus on STEM. she started teaching there in the school’s It is located at 13221 Boyette Rd. in second year of opening. The event origiRiverview. For more information on the nally centered only on astronomy, but school, please visit Gregos has expanded it out to include bellcreekacademy.com.

A group of local “My goal for this businesses helped a project was to put high school stuinto perspective how dent’s dream many people lost become a reality last their lives that day month. Senior and give the stuMadison Reed was dents at Newsome, able to coordinate a and the community, display of 2,977 a way to honor flags in the them,” she said. Newsome High Reed, a Valrico School car loop on resident, plans to September 11 to donate the flags to honor the lives lost Newsome in the Newsome High School senior Madison on 9/11 thanks to hopes that the disReed organized a display of flags to honor the lives lost on 9/11 last month. donations from 24 play will become an businesses. annual tradition taken over by another “I wanted to do this project because student when she leaves for college. 2020 will be the first graduating class of She would also like to start the project at students who were not alive during the the college she attends next year. attack and I realized that my peers and I The businesses that sponsored the do not have the same connection to 9/11 project include Ultra Tranz Logistics, Art as adults do since we have no memory Monkey, Expressly Written, Pinch A of it,” said Reed. “We learn about it in Penny Fishhawk, Cruise Planners school and watch documentaries every Allison McRae, Park Square Social, Beef year, but it just doesn’t seem real to us ‘O’ Brady’s FishHawk, Cay Fusion, The since we didn’t experience it.” Rice Financial Group, The Scrambled Reed titled her project, which was Egg, FishHawk Pizza, Vortex Security, entirely student-led, “Those who don’t AcuSystem, JB Accounting Solutions, remember will still never forget.” Master Garage Door Co., Wayback In addition to the businesses that Burgers, HiTech Automotive, A&S contributed financially, Reed put together Custom Construction, Inc., Tutoring Club a group of student volunteers, Samantha of Valrico, Camp Gladiator - Yvonne Chavez, DeAnnah Johnson, Chloe Ayala-Lugo, Earthwise Pet, 3 C’s Dymond, Dylon Wadlington, Anthony St. Catering, LLC, The Landing Bar and Grill Alexander, Aidan Duclos, Chirana and Cultural Care Au Pair - Francine Warren, Katie Warren, Mariana Ramirez DiGiorgio. and Cameron Troyer, who helped with Newsome High School is located at organizing and placing the flags in the 16550 FishHawk Blvd. and can be lawn on 9/11. reached at 740-4600.

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Page 32

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Bloomingdale Senior Looking To Log 1,000 Yards And Win State Championship

Tampa Theatre Kicks Off Its Seventh Season Of Scaring With A Nightmare On Franklin Street

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kyle Karpiscak Seeking to make Bloomingdale High School history, Gonnella says he wants to accomplish something big for the community. He wants to have an accomplishment that he can hold on to for the rest of his life. “The strength of our schedule is very tough this season,” he said. “We had a lot of graduating seniors and I am trying to be a leader and lead a young team to play like an experienced team. I need to keep the team disciplined and confident. Studying film week after week helps me prepare and up my game. I Florida Orthopaedic Institute (FOI) announced keep a positive attitude and Dominic Gonnella from Bloomingdale High School encourage my teammates to as the ‘Athlete of the Week’ in September. do the same.” Florida Orthopaedic Institute Gonnella is prepared to go the (FOI) chose Dominic Gonnella from distance, no matter the cost. He is Bloomingdale High School as its always willing and ready to put in ‘Athlete of the Week’ for the week in the effort because he knows that September. there are others that want it as bad Nominated by Athletic Director as he does. Nate Francis, Gonnella was praised “Never stop grinding,” Gonnella for his performance in said. “Somebody else is always Bloomingdale’s first home game this working harder.” season. Florida Orthopaedic “Dominic led his team to a seaInstitute’s Athlete of the Week camson opener victory against paign is designed to focus on stuNewsome,” Francis said. “He carried dent-athletes, recognizing them for the ball 11 times for 170 yards and their hard work and dedication both three touchdowns. In addition to on and off the field. being a great athlete, Dominic has Athletes are chosen by a coach demonstrated great leadership and who feels the athlete does his or her sportsmanship throughout his athletbest to put direction into action, ic career at Bloomingdale.” makes a significant contribution to A leader by nature, Gonnella the team and continuously works to hopes to help his Bloomingdale improve his or her skills, attitude Bulls reach further success, more so and training. Athletes can earn the than what they were met with last award in recognition of excellent season. leadership by serving as role models “My goal is to play deeper in the for his or her peers. playoffs than we did last year and For more information on Florida play for a state championship ring,” Orthapedic, visit Gonnella said. “I would also like to www.floridaortho.com. run for 1,000 yards this season.”

The Tampa Theatre will present A Nightmare on Franklin Street this October. The Tampa Theatre has added a new live spooky component to the popular series.

October is a great month for all things spooky. If you are looking for something unique to do, look no further than the Tampa Theatre as they present A Nightmare on Franklin Street. The Tampa Theatre offers so much during this season, from films to special events and tours to, for the first time ever, two live shows. In addition to the live shows, the Tampa Theatre will offer their popular Ghost of Tampa Theatre Tours and an all-new Paranormal Investigative Experience. First, the Tampa Theatre will kick off its popular A Nightmare on Franklin Street series with Last Podcast on the Left live on stage on Friday, October 18. Jill Witecki with the Tampa Theatre explained, “Last Podcast on the Left barrels headlong into all things horror. Hosts Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks and Henry Zebrowski cover all kinds of dark subjects. Whether its cults, killers or cryptid encounters, Last Podcast on the Left laughs into the abyss that is the dark side of humanity.” Tickets are $26 plus fees. There are a limited number of VIP Meet and Greet tickets available for $101 plus fees. On Saturday, October 19, the theatre will present The Rocky Horror Picture

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Show with a special live preshow with Barry Bostwick (Brad) at 7 p.m. and midnight. Bostwick will talk about his experience in making the film. Tickets are $26 plus fees and a limited number of VIP tickets at $101 plus fee are also available. Next, on Saturday, October 26, come see Phantasmagoria X – Reckoning at 7 p.m. Witecki said, “Phantasmagoria brings their unique brand of ‘whimsical macabre’ terrors to the lineup, presenting the 10th anniversary main stage installment of their longrunning, criticallyacclaimed series live on the theatre’s stage.” This show contains elements of horror and is recommended for children eight and older. Tickets are $26.00 plus fees. The Tampa Theatre will offer Ghost of Tampa Theatre Tours everyday through Halloween beginning on Friday, October 18. Tours are offered at 11:30 a.m., 3 p.m., 9 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on two nights. In addition, Paranormal Investigation Experience will be offered after two shows on Sunday, October 20 and October 27. Ghost Tour tickets are $15. The Paranormal Investigation Experience is an additional $25. The Tampa Theatre is located at 711 N. Franklin St. in Downtown Tampa. For more information and to get tickets, please visit www.tampatheatre.org/Nightmare.

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October 2019

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Join The Brandon Ballet For An Evening Of Beers And Barres

By Kathy L. Collins

The Brandon Ballet “One of the tradeinvites lovers of beer and marks of the Brandon the ballet to its Fifth Ballet is our loyalty and Annual Beers For Barres. dedication to our commuJoin the Brandon Ballet on nity of dancers, audience Friday, October 4 from 7 members, donors, volunto 10 p.m. at the Barn at teers and friends. Our Winthrop as it kicks off its upcoming Beers for 26th season with a fun Barres event is no night of craft beers, good different. We are food and exciting ballet. bringing the best Tickets to the event of Brandon’s can be purchased at breweries and the www.brandonballet.org for best of Brandon Come get a taste of Brandon Ballet to present an ele$30 plus tax for adults with Ballet’s 26th Season at its Fifth IDs and $20 plus tax for gant evening that is cerAnnual Beers for Barres on Friday, October 4 from 7 to 10 tain to satisfy. From craft food tasting only. Tickets p.m. at The Barn at Winthrop. beer to virtuosic ballet, purchased at the door will Enjoy sampling local craft beer, increase by $5. While this food and wonderful perform- Beers for Barres is an ances by the talented dancers event that is sure to event is good for friends of the Brandon Ballet. and families, you must please the palate of audihave valid ID to get a wristband, which ences both young and old,” said Hannah allows access to the craft beer area. Smith, the administrative coordinator for During the evening, the Brandon the Brandon Ballet. Ballet will perform excerpts from In addition to beer, food and ballet, Cinderella’s Ball, Sleeping Beauty and you can partake in a fun silent auction Yuletide Ballet Celebration. Food will be throughout the evening. provided by local favorite and event sponThe Brandon Ballet was founded in sor Stein & Vine. Bootleggers Brewing 1993. As a nonprofit pre-professional balCo., Beer Can Island, Leaven Brewing, let company, it develops and promotes Bay Area Barley’s Angels and Brandon opportunities for aspiring young dancers. Bootleggers Homebrew Club will be proThe Brandon Ballet provides the commuviding original craft beer for you to samnity with an education in the art of dance. ple. Come and support this wonderful Music will be provided by Big Beats organization by attending the Fifth Annual Entertainment. It will keep the evening Beers for Barres on Friday, October 4. flowing as smoothly as the beer. You can The Barn at Winthrop is located at 11349 hit the dance floor and dance to your Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. favorite music or enjoy an early fall For more information, please visit Florida evening on the patio. www.brandonballet.org.

Page 33


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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

The Freedom Tour Invites Ladies To A Night Of Worship By Amanda Boston Grab your gal pals for an incredible night of worship on Friday, October 11 at Bell Shoals Baptist Church in Brandon. The Freedom Tour invites you to come and be encouraged by the hope and freedom found in Jesus Christ. The gathering is for every woman—no matter the stage in her life. Jesus Christ unites us all in His purpose, so whether you are a working mom, a stay-at-home mom, adolescent, or in your golden years, this event is for you. The event features the author and speaker Jennie Allen, who is the founder of ‘IF: Gather,’ a nonprofit movement that exists to equip women with Gospel-centered resources. Allen has also written Nothing to Prove: Why We Can Stop Trying So Hard, which can be purchased on Amazon. The message will focus on finding freedom in Christ and challenge you to discover who you are in Him. In addition to a time of Bible teaching, Christy Nockels, a worship leader and songwriter from Nashville, TN, will lead a time of praise and worship through music. She has been a worship leader for more than 25 years.

In 2017, Nockels released the album, Be Held: Lullabies for the Beloved and recently released a new single, In Every Way. The event begins at 7 p.m. with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person for general admission and $30 per person for a VIP ticket. The VIP ticket includes early access with preferred seating and a Q&A time with Jennie Allen. Prices do not include ticketing fees. Tickets are available for purchase by going to https://www.itickets.com and searching Freedom Tour or by phone at 1800-965-9324. Debbie Weisemann is Bell Shoals’ Minister of Community Outreach and Women. She said, “I would personally like to invite every woman in the Greater Tampa Bay Area to be a part of the extraordinary evening of worship and challenge as together we discover what it truly means to experience the freedom to be all we were created to be.” Bell Shoals Baptist Church is located at 2012 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. For more information, visit www.freedomprojecttour.com or call 689-4229.

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October 2019

Page 35

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Mary & Martha House Unveils Plans For Larger Domestic Violence Shelter By Kelly Wise Valdes such as finding employment, resumé writing, interview skills and transportation, among many other things. In addition, Mary & Martha House provides a unique learning opportunity called “Financial Solutions – Save and Grow Mary & Martha House, originally founded in 1982, has broken ground on the construction of a newer and larger housing facility. Program.” During this course, the In 2018, there were 6,775 cases women learn fiscal independence by of domestic violence related offenses managing their finances and budget. in Hillsborough County. Domestic vioHerring said that the new facility lence against women and children will have 53 beds, up from its current across the nation is an ongoing issue capacity of 23 beds. It will also have with dire consequences. No one a large learning center where women knows this better than Laurie Herring, can benefit from online training and the executive director of Mary & educational resources, as well as Martha House, a domestic violence applying for jobs and writing shelter and safe haven in resumés. The new shelter is on Hillsborough County since 1982. schedule to be completed by After years of planning, the staff and February 2020 and was made possithe board of directors are finally able ble in part by funding and grant to announce that a new, larger shelmoney from the county as well as ter is under construction, which ultimately will provide the housing that is generous donations by many supporters in the community. so desperately needed for women “Our number one goal is to make and children in Hillsborough County, sure the women feel safe,” said especially south county. Herring. “Then our case managers Over the past 36 years, Mary & will work with them to overcome one Martha House has continually providbarrier at a time.” ed shelter, food and counseling for Mary & Martha House staff is multitudes of abused women and extremely thankful to have received their children. Most importantly, all partial funding of $500,000 from women that seek help at Mary & Hillsborough County towards the Martha House are provided an extenbuilding of this new million-dollar+ sive program to meet their individualfacility. ized needs. “We have case manAs with all nonprofit 501(c)(3) agers that develop specific case programs, Mary & Martha House plans for each woman,” said Herring. relies on the donations from the comJust like the current facility, the munity. Donations can be made new facility will provide housing for online through www.marymarthaup to three months or longer dependhouse.org or by calling the adminising on the need, while the staff protrative office at 645-7874 or the shelvides assistance for various things ter office at 641-7027.

Local Resident Authors Book About His Life Story After Taking Library Workshop

By Kathy L. Collins

Everyone has a Later in life, they may add life story. Some peovolumes for their own jourple are compelled to neys.” write about their life When asked what he story. Some, like Jerry wants readers to know Humphrey, have even about him and his book, written complete Humphrey said, “Hope is books and had them in our natural family on published. earth and our family of Humphrey took God in the Body of Christ. the Life Story Writing It was a blessing for our Workshop offered at family to stay the course According to Jerry Humphrey of the Bloomingdale together in unity as one, Valrico, “Everyone has a life story regardless of our daily Regional Library a to tell. Just do it.” Humphrey took few years ago. His challenges.” the Life Story Writing Workshop offered at the Bloomingdale book, Heritage & Humphrey conducted Regional Library. Hope, has now been extensive research to published and is available on Amazon for write his book. He utilized many sources, just $10 plus tax and delivery. including historical articles from the Humphrey explained that his book Tampa Bay Times (formerly the Tampa “Includes history, family, biography, nostal- Tribune). In addition, his youngest brother, gia, truth, redemption in Christ and purDonald, provided extensive family genealpose. It is the memoirs of a 75-year-old ogy research for the book. native Floridian’s nostalgic years in Humphrey will have a book signing Eastern Hillsborough County during the during the Annual Pioneer Heritage Day ‘40s and ‘50s and the ‘New South’ in the on Saturday, November 9 from 9 a.m. to ‘60s. His known family history extends 3 p.m. at the East Hillsborough Historical from the mid-1700s in an evolving Society located in the 1914 Plant City America.” High School Community Center at 605 N. Humphrey was born on September Collins St. in Plant City. Book readings 16, 1943. He was home delivered into a are also being scheduled. large family living in Dover, Florida in the You can contact Humphrey at midst of World War II. He graduated from jhjhumphrey@aol.com. Auburn University and is retired from a The award-winning Life Story Writing career in construction estimating. He and Workshops are sponsored by the Friends his wife, Karen, recently celebrated their of the Library. The workshops will once 50th anniversary. again be offered sometime in January Humphrey explained that he was 2020 at the Bloomingdale Regional prompted to write Heritage & Hope so Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale that “Our future generations will have a Ave. in Valrico. record of our family history and heritage. For information, visit www.hcplc.org.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Meet An Original ‘Rosie The Riveter’ At Special Black Dagger Menton Dinner By Kelly Wise Valdes The public is cordially invited to attend Menton Dinner, a truly unique event honoring the 75th anniversary of the deactivation of the First Special Service Force (FSSF),

of her life experiences surrounding WWII. Each ticket includes dinner, cigars, cocktails, music, parking and one chance at a special drawing—a framed American flag flown and jumped into the 75th Anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France by the guest speaker. This historic flag better known as the also includes a signature Mae Krier, one of America’s ‘Devil's Brigade.’ This of the last living Army original 'Rosie the Riveters’ will be special event will be Ranger officer to storm a guest speaker at The Regent Dec. 7. taking place on the beaches of Saturday, December 7 at The Regent. Normandy on D-Day. Menton Dinner first took place on “We would like to honor as many livDecember 5, 1944 when members of the ing WWII veterans as possible,” said FSSF disbanded in Menton, France. This Winters. “If you have someone in your close-knit Canadian and American unit family that can make the dinner, we shared a meal that forged a deep bond of would like to have them and their spouse brotherhood. or caregiver as our guest.” “Since our nation is celebrating the Black Dagger Military Hunt Club, 75th anniversary of many significant founded in 2010, serves the community events that marked the turning tide of the through adaptive outdoor programs for war, we wanted the greater Tampa Bay to injured or wounded veterans. have the opportunity to experience a truly Ticket information can be found at unique military-style event,” said David www.blackdaggermhc.org/menton. Winters, founder and president of Black Dress for the event includes Florida Dagger Military Hunt Club, a local nonbusiness attire (dressy but not formal), profit organization. WWII era uniforms, 1940s vintage attire Guest speaker CSM (Ret.) Rick or come dressed as a ‘Rosie’ to honor Lamb SF, a very respected and highly Mae and the women who fueled the war decorated green beret will reveal details machine in the factories. of this unique American and Canadian The Regent is located at 6437 unit who fought Nazi Germany, deep Watson Rd. in Riverview. For information, behind enemy lines. Additionally, special email dave@blackdaggermhc.org. Black guest Mae Krier, one of America’s original Dagger is a federal 501(c)(3) nonprofit ‘Rosie the Riveters,’ will be sharing a few and all donations are tax deductible.

Volume 18, Issue 10

PLANTAR FASCIITIS & ACHILLES PAIN Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy are two of the most over-diagnosed conditions for anyone with foot or ankle pain. If you’re experiencing pain on the underside of your foot or on the back of your ankle, just above your heel, it’s likely that you’ve irritated the fascia or tendon through over-use or improper biomechanics. It often goes mis-treated and becomes a chronic complaint. Some of the most effective treatments are rehab, strengthening the muscles of the foot, and therapy. It is important to have your pain evaluated by a professional who understands the rehab necessary to correct it. It is not something that you want to attempt to self-diagnose or experiment with selfprescribed treatments such as kinesiotape and orthopedic braces that you are able to purchase over-the-counter. Long-term bracing can have detrimental effects on our biomechanics and can allow our muscles and surrounding tissues to get weak and become dependent on the brace for support, causing more issues. However, these tools can be effective under the care of a medical professional. WHAT IT ISN’T Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon pain can be frustrating to deal with due to its chronic nature and unresponsiveness to most other treatments. That doesn’t mean that you must live with the pain forever or even that it would take dozens of visits to correct. No matter how chronic the complaint, there is usually still improvement to be made, if not full resolution, however, the sooner you get a connective tissue problem like these evaluated and treated, the better the prognosis and the faster the recovery. WHAT IT IS Plantar fasciitis and Achilles pain are often mechanical in nature, meaning that it’s a result of how we move and use our body. Left alone to just “rest” or restricted to a splint or soft cast, the tendon and tissue will not be remodeled, will not heal on its own, and the pain will persist for long after the initial injury or incident. This is why seeking appropriate treatment is so important. At Motion ChiroTherapy, we tailor your rehab to restore full and pain-free ranges of motion and then strengthen the surrounding muscles and tissues to better tolerate load and stress.

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October 2019

Page 37

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Area Artists Are Featured At Annual Artworks Exhibit

Center Place Exhibits 60 Large Historical Photographs

The Brandon her piece, Jewelry League of Fine Arts Seller. Third place and Center Place was given to Fine Arts presented Margaret Conte for Artworks 2019. An her piece called artists' reception was Sofia, the Flower held on Thursday, Girl. Barbara September 12 at Tudek took fourth Center Place in place for her piece Brandon. At that time, called Breakfast at awards were given to Dawn. Honorable the top artists. Mention was Lionel Sanchez awarded to Sue served as this year’s Downes Allen for judge for Artworks her artwork called 2019. Sanchez is a Web of My Own signature member of Making. the Colorado Klein said, Deborah Biasetti took first place at Artworks 2019 with her piece, Me Too. Watercolor Society, "We sponsor this Artworks 2019 is an annual art exhibit Miami Watercolor show each year to organized by the Brandon League of Fine Society and the Gold bring awareness of Arts and is held at Center Place in Brandon. Coast Watercolor the art produced Society. He explained what he looks for here in the area. We also want to when judging an art show. expose our community of artists outside "Utilizing elements and principles of of our immediate purview." design, I look for a good composition The Brandon League of Fine Arts, with a strong focal point, thus opening a originally called the Brandon Area Art dialogue between the artist and the Center, was established in 1959 by a viewer," said Sanchez. group of Brandon-area artists and art Christopher Klein, president of the lovers. The name was changed in 1977 Brandon League of Fine Arts, said, "We to better reflect the growing scope of the team up with Center Place to nurture an members' interests. awareness of the venue, and the work Artworks was first organized in done there as well." 2000. As the Brandon League of Fine Klein added, "The quality of the artArts is now in its 60th year, the organizawork submitted for Artworks keeps tion continues to champion fine arts in improving as the years pass. The recep- the Greater Brandon community. tion was well attended, and we had a For more information on the good time conversing with the artists." Brandon League of Fine Arts, please There are five winners for Artworks visit www.bfla.us. 2019. Deborah Biasetti took first place For more information on Center for her piece entitled Me Too. Kathy Place, please visit www.centerplaceDurdin was awarded second place for brandon.org.

The month of preserve the October is local history. The Founder's Month collection confor the Greater sists of photos of Brandon commuhorses on Valrico nity. In celebraLake, cattle, tion of this, orange groves, Center Place is post offices, lumhosting a special ber mills, monthlong exhibit Buckhorn consisting of 60 Springs, Brandon large historical State Road 60 Come celebrate Brandon Founder's Month at photographs. The Center Place by visiting its October art exhibit, and more. which is a fascinating collection of historical photographs date Rodriguez photographs. Center Place will host a reception said, "I worked back to the on Thursday, October 24. You can meet local 1800s and take with Julia author Michael Wigh, who wrote the book, Brandon, Florida - Images In Time. viewers on a hisMoseley and Pat torical tour of Brandon through the Odiorne to do research and create a 1960s. caption for each photo. It was a work of The photographs can be viewed love." during Center Place's normal operaRodriguez added, "When you see tions hours. In addition, Center Place is this exhibit, you step back in time. You hosting an Art Reception on Thursday, experience a way of life that was much October 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. The comsimpler in some ways but harder in munity is invited. other ways. They farmed the land, plantYou can meet local author Michael ed citrus groves and raised farm aniWigh, who wrote Brandon, Florida mals. They only had dirt paths and horsImages In Time. Wigh will present a es for transportation." 30-minute presentation that compleCenter Place itself has been serving ments his book, which dates back to the Greater Brandon area since 1979. the pioneers of the 1800s. The current location, 619 Vonderburg Lisa Rodriguez, marketing director Dr. in Brandon, came about as a result for Center Place, said, "Michael Wigh of a partnership with the Hillsborough will have his book for sale that evening County Library System. with a special price of $25. This makes "We are one of a handful of comthe book a very nice holiday gift." munities in the nation that has this comRodriguez added, "If you already bination library/cultural center facility. It have a copy of his wonderful book, is a wonderful partnership with a rich bring it with you and he will sign it, history," explained Rodriguez. making it an extra special keepsake." For information on the upcoming The photo collection was donated Historical Photographs Art Exhibit and to Center Place by Julia Moseley and other events at Center Place, visit friends in the late 1980s in order to www.centerplacebrandon.org.

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Page 38

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volunteers Needed For Guardian Ad Litem

By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com

Staff Report

“All a child system and find really needs is a permanent a little help, a home more little hope and quickly than someone who those without an believes in advocate. them.” NBA In an averlegend Magic age of 10-12 Johnson hours per month, believed this to an adult can get be true, and to know a child after seeing in foster care, Help make a difference in a child’s life. Visit what a differencourage them www.galtampa.org to find the schedule for inforence they can in school and life mation sessions on the Guardian ad Litem program. make, so do matters, provide the Volunteer Child Advocates of the some normalcy and be a caring, conGuardian ad Litem program. Men and sistent presence in the child’s life. women of all ages and backgrounds Guardian ad Litem volunteers receive act as advotraining to help cates and menthem become effectors for children tive advocates. in the foster “If you are lookcare system, ing for a volunteer but more chilopportunity that dren are waitbrings fulfillment ing for the person who can offer them and can make a lifetime of difference, a little help and hope. look no further,” said Tabitha Lambert, Children enter the foster care syscircuit director for the Hillsborough tem after having been abused, abanCounty Guardian ad Litem Program. doned or neglected. Despite the loss “Heartfelt advocacy can be the and trauma they have experienced, strength a child needs.” they still share many common needs To learn more about the Guardian with other children: learning and growad Litem program, attend an informaing, a desire to play and be around tion session. These one-hour sessions others with similar interests and a are held around the county mostly on longing for love, guidance and a stable Thursday evenings, but with an excepenvironment in which to live. Research tion once a month. shows that children in the foster care A full schedule can be found on system who have a volunteer advothe Guardian ad Litem website at cate do better in school, receive more www.galtampa.org. The office can also services and often move through the be reached at 272-5110.

Volume 18, Issue 10

Hyundai Introduces An All-New, Highly Impressive Palisade The Hyundai Santa Fe XL is history and has now been replaced by a new flagship, the Palisade, for 2020. Apart from a longer wheelbase and being larger, higher and wider than its predecessor, this one is a knockout. We had the opportunity of first driving the airbags, fourmidsize SUV on PALISADE (LIMITED AWD) wheel anti-lock the curvy and 245/50R20 Tires: brakes with brake hilly Blue Ridge inches 114.2 Wheelbase: assist, vehicle Parkway in stability/traction Asheville, North Length: 196.1 inches control, front/rear Carolina, before Width: 77.8 inches crumple zones, testing it on Height: 68.9 inches daytime running Tampa streets. pounds 5,000 capacity: Tow lights and tire Available in gallons 18.8 capacity: Fuel pressure monitora seven or eightmpg 19 City: ing system. passenger conSwitch over figuration, the Highway: 24 mpg to eco, comfort, Palisade gets a Website: www.hyundai.com smart and sport sole powertrain: drive modes 3.8-liter V-6 (snow and AWD lock for all-wheel engine pumping out 291 horsepower drive) via a knob on the center con@ 6,000 rpm and 262 pounds-feet of sole. Also offered are an eight-way torque @ 5,200 rpm, more than adepower driver’s seat; 10.2-inch LCD quate to climb the mountainous tertouch screen for nav, phone and rain of “America’s Favorite Drive.” audio; 12.3-inch digital instrument The 8-speed auto gearbox with padcluster; Android Auto and Apple dle shifters is immaculate, offering CarPlay; heads-up display; instantaneous up and down moves. The SUV is also fitted with an engine cooled/heated front and second-row Nappa leather seat which folds via a start/stop system, which turns the power button, as does the third row; engine off at a halt to save fuel. dual sun roof; surround-view monitor; An independent MacPherson tilt/telescopic steering column; dual strut front and multilink rear suspenauto a/c; seven USB ports; and 16 sion does a particularly good job of cup/bottle holders, and more dependsoaking bumps and potholes with ing on the trim. skill in this front-wheel or all-wheelBase-priced at $31,550 and drive ride. Also worth noting is the peaking at $44,700 (luxurious motor-driven power rack-and-pinion Limited), the Palisade is great value steering, effortless at higher speeds for the money. Don’t be deluded into or while pulling into a parking lot. believing that the mighty 4,387-pound Also serving the overall efforts is 59 vehicle lacks muscle. In fact, the gas percent advanced high-strength steel pedal releases forceful but silent and sound-damping materials that acceleration to make the Palisade an hold wind and road noise to a minielegant, pleasing and easy-riding mum. companion. And Hyundai’s five-year, The Palisade shows off a mam60,000-mile basic and 10-year, moth cascading Hyundai grille with 100,000-mile powertrain warranties ‘crocodile eye’ LED headlights, daytime running lights and turn signals. It should convince you to sign on the dotted line. comes standard with Hyundai Test drive the Palisade at SmartSense, which includes forwardBrandon Hyundai, located at 9915 collision avoidance, safe exit and Adamo Dr. in Tampa. Visit www.branlane keeping assists and smart donhyundai.com or call 296-6772. cruise control. There also are 10

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October 2019

Page 39

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Middle School Teacher Publishes Two Young Adult Books

By Libby Hopkins

Writers can be Eddie get into is a surprise inspired to write by to me when I write, and numerous things, but hopefully that feeling of when they are inspired suspense translates to the by a loved one, the reader.” words they put down Jordan has been told on paper have so his books are like The much more meaning to Hardy Boys and Journey to them. Scott Jordan is a the Center of the Earth technology teacher at combined. Barrington Middle “Reading teachers in School in Lithia. He is Maine and Florida have also a local author who told me that these books was inspired to write are especially interesting Scott Jordan is a technology by his mother and for boys who are reluctant teacher at Barrington Middle his wife. readers,” Jordan said. School in Lithia. He carved out time “I've always to write two young adult books in “They've told me there's the early mornings before school just enough adventure, been an avid reader and on the weekends. of science fiction and fighting and gore to keep fantasy books, and the characters in my boys interested, and enough strong books came to me a long time ago,” female character action to [keep] girls Jordan said. “My mother and wife interested as well.” encouraged me to pick up and complete If you ask Jordan what he likes the this story I began in the early 2000s.” most about writing, he’ll tell you that he Jordan is the author of two young never realized how much work is adult books titled, The Four Doors of Mt. involved in writing a 350-page book. Katart: Another Boone Boys Adventure “The editing and rewriting to make and The Curse of the Black Opals: the story flow seems never-ending at Boone Boys Adventures. times, but the reward of hearing positive “Both books follow the adventures of feedback makes the hard work worth it,” the teenage Boone brothers, Josh and Jordan said. “I'm currently taking a break Eddie,” Jordan said. “They decide to look writing book three of the Boone Brothers into the disappearance of a young boy in series, and I'm working on a murder the mines near their home in Missouri mystery detective novel set in the 90s in and get swept into a Below World full of Portland, Maine. That book should be monsters and creatures. In book one, published by the end of the year.” they have to struggle and fight through If you would like to read either one of this scary world, and in book two, they go Jordan’s books, they are available on back in to rescue someone left behind. Amazon www.amazon.com or you can Sometimes the trouble that Josh and email Jordan at sjdj3k1d@gmail.com.

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Page 40

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10


Bloomingdale/FishHawk

InThis Section EYE ON BUSINESS....................PGS 41‐42 GET THE DIRT .................................PG 43 NEWSOME BAND FESTIVAL............PG 45 CIRQUE DU SOLEIL AXEL ................PG 46

October 2019

Volume 18, Issue 10

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Ph: 657-2418

Phoenix House Florida’s Held Annual Celebration of Recovery

lives of youth who face and/or have survived challenging circumstance through educational support. As of to date the foundation awarded over 250 scholarships to deserving individuals. For more information, visit www.BecauseOfJason.org.

Phoenix House Florida (PHFL) recently hosted its Annual Celebration of Recovery. The celebration is held each year Breast Cancer Awareness to recognize patients’ Month At Music Showcase hard work and success Music Showcase is once in recovery. Phoenix again taking nominations for House Florida holds local breast cancer patients the event every year in The employees from Premier Radiation Oncology and Cancer Center of currently undergoing treatment September to comSouth Tampa participated in the 12th Annual Jason Ackerman Memorial Bowl-A-Thon on August 25. memorate National today can be traced back to the Recovery Month. many groups I took at Phoenix John Cunningham, a graduate of House Florida,” stated Phoenix House Florida, received the Cunningham. Celebration of Recovery Alumni of the For more information, visit Year Award for his inspirational story and leadership in the recovery commu- www.phoenixhouse.org/locations/florida. nity. Since leaving PHFL, Cunningham successfully to be the recipients of its monthlong Premier Radiation maintained his recovery fundraising efforts in Oncology Participates In and eventually became a October. Nominations Bowl-A-Thon house manager at Real should include the Premier Radiation Recovery, a sober living patient’s name and Oncology and Cancer home in Brandon where contact information Center’s team, the ‘Hot he is still employed as the with a brief paraSpots,’ were awarded the program administrator. graph as to why they should receive Most Spirited Team at the “Here I am able to give the funds raised as well as your name 12th annual Jason Ackerman back and help guys transiand contact information. All nomination back to life without drugs and alco- Memorial Bowl-A-Thon. The tions must be received no later than Foundation focuses on improving the hol. Many of the life skills I still used Monday, October 14 by 8 p.m.

D O V E

Baked goods and popcorn will be available all month for donations of $1$5 each. Visit musicshowcaseonline.com or email or call Music Showcase at 6855998 to nominate someone or for more information. Ask for Debra Campos or Paula Gaskins.

Hess Orthodontics Holds Annual Halloween Candy Buy Back To Benefit Troops Hess Orthodontics will be holding its annual Halloween candy buyback. For every pound of candy donated, you will receive $1. All candy collected will be donated to the troops via Operation Gratitude. Candy collections will take place on Friday, November 1 from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Riverview office, located at 11970 Boyette Rd.; Monday, November 4 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at the FishHawk location at 16307 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia

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Page 42

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Business Column Continued................... By Michelle Colesanti For more information, call 6454377 or visit www.hessorthodontics.com.

International Folk Fair Returns To Vinoy Park This year, the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society (SPIFFS) Annual Folk Fair will remind us of who we are: a fabric of cultures woven into a United States. The SPIFFS 45th Annual International Folk Fair will be held from Thursday to Sunday, October 24-27, at Vinoy Park in Downtown St. Petersburg. The four-day festival showcases food and culture from 36+ ethnic organizations, each representing immigrants from nations across the globe. The groups will unite in a Grand Parade of Nations, culminating in a swearing-in ceremony of new

American citizens. The SPIFFS International Folk Fair transforms St. Petersburg’s waterfront into a microcosm of the world, with a multitude of ethnic crafts, arts, food, cooking demonstrations and special entertainment. Some highlights include Giving Tree Music drum circles, student performances on the main stage, Polynesian dancers and music featuring the Mongolian ‘horsehead fiddle’ (morin khuur). Additional entertainment in the Main Stage/Beer Garden area includes performances by Urban Gypsies, Brazilian samba by O Som Do Jazz, New Horizons Band of Gulfport and Conundrum Celtic Band. Folk dancing and music will be performed throughout the festival on two stages. For more information, visit www.spiffs.org.

Caring For Young Kids And Aging Parents? Listen up! Or Courts Will Do It For You. By Laurie E. Ohall, Board Certified Elder Law Attorney As our parents get older and begin to lose their independence, many will turn to their adult children to help them navigate the complicated and costly world of long-term care. For adult children already caring for young kids of their own, this new role of ‘caregiver’ can be a difficult one to assume. It’s no wonder this group of people is known as the ‘Sandwich Generation’ as they are literally ‘sandwiched’ between the pressures of raising a family, holding down a job and managing mom or dad’s growing medical and financial needs. If you don’t make arrangements for financial and medical decisions within your family, the courts will do it for you, so create a plan in advance while your parents still have the chance to have a say in their care and decisions. Elder law attorneys recommend five planning steps to help ensure aging parents are afforded the most protection, flexibility, and financial security, while helping the adult child retain life balance and personal sanity: Find out if your parents have an estate plan and whether it’s been updated in the past five years. The will, trust, powers of attorney, and health care directives your parents created years ago may not reflect their current wishes and long-term care needs now.

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Determine How You Will Pay for Long-Term Care. Nursing home and assisted living facilities can cost up to $8,000 a month (average cost of care for skilled nursing in Hillsborough County, is now $9,485). Medicare will not pick up the tab. Inhome care can be equally burdensome. Medicaid may pay, provided you are hovering around the poverty level. Get the Legal Authority You Need Now to Manage Their Affairs and Maintain Control. If your parents do not have powers of attorney or health care directives that allow you to communicate with doctors, access medical records, and manage their financial affairs, it’s a good idea to create them now while mom or dad is still in good health. Document Their End-of-Life Wishes. Thousands of families each year are torn apart trying to decide what their loved one ‘would have wanted’ in serious medical situations. Get Organized Now to Avoid Last Minute Scrambling. Gather your parents’ important information now and create a ‘grab and go’ kit to avoid any confusion and delays in the event of a medical emergency. By being proactive and planning for these issues in advance, you can help make sure your parents receive the care they need without worry or financial struggle.

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October 2019

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 43


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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

GET THE DIRT WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT

Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension

Fall Gardening To Do List To do lists—either you love them or hate them. Personally, I love lists. I have lists in my work office, in my home office, in my car, on the nightstand and on the kitchen counter. I find writing down things I need to take care of calming. If it’s not written down, chances are I won’t remember it, at least not on a timely basis. •Water less: Decrease landscape irrigation frequency based on rain events and temperature. Consider turning off your irrigation system at the time clock and watering only when plants need water. •Mulch more: Mulch should be two to three inches deep after it settles. Be sure to pull it away from the stems of plants and decrease the depth to one inch over root balls. Mulch retains moisture, adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes and regulates soil temperature. •Feed: Fertilize citrus and avocado trees with citrus and avocado fertilizer. This is the last time of the year to fertilize bahiagrass and St. Augustine grass. If you haven’t taken a soil test indicating the need for phosphorus, choose a fertilizer that has minimal or no phosphorus. •Lawn weeds: Preemergent herbicides suppress weed seed growth above the ground. This herbicide has to be applied when nighttime temperatures are 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit for four to five days. Read the label. Timing is everything, and there is a big difference between preemergence and postemergence products and application times of the year. •Insect control: Check for pests and

correctly identify the alleged pest. Many good bugs look similar to bad bugs. When we kill good bugs, we have to take on their job of helping rid our landscapes of bad bugs. There are many environmentally safe pest solutions available. •Divide and conquer your perennials: Dig and replant in your own landscape or dig and gift them to a friend or neighbor. Examples include bromeliads, flax lily, blue daze whirling butterflies, beach sunflower, scorpion tail, liriope, firespike, walking iris, plumbago, porterweed, pine cone ginger…and the list goes on. •Plant: You can plant fall vegetables (beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, collards, peas, radish, spinach, turnips and more). It’s a great time to plant shrubs and trees that are cold-hardy. If you like bedding plants/annuals, you may want to consider seasonal plants like petunia, dianthus and pansy. Refer to the Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide, https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/vh021. •Walk around your landscape and admire what you have accomplished. Take a few photos and relax. So, for those of you who love lists too, here’s my list of fall gardening to do’s adapted from the Central Florida Gardening Calendar: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep450. For horticultural assistance, contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 744-5519 or visit at 5339 CR 579 in Seffner. Stroll through the Bette S. Walker Discovery Garden, our perennial garden and Girl Scout Troop-created Pollinator Garden.

Beach Sunflower

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Volume 18, Issue 10

Dr. Priya Reddy Offers Remarkable Rheumatology Care In Riverview

By Amy Schechter

If you or a loved belongs. She is an one have experienced Executive Board arthritis, tendonitis, gout Member of the or lupus, you underFlorida Society of stand how debilitating Rheumatology and these autoimmune concurrently serves as ditions can be. That is Secretary/Treasurer why having a good and concurrently the rheumatologist is an Florida Regional integral part of a care Director for the plan. Dr. Priya Reddy American Women in and her staff at Rheumatology. Dr. Dr. Priya Reddy, MD, FACR, Southwest Florida Rheumatology. Southwest Florida Reddy is Board Rheumatology are perfectly poised to Certified in Rheumatology and is a Fellow diagnose and treat a variety of rheumatic of the American College of diseases, which when left untreated can Rheumatology. Additionally, she is a affect the joints, muscles, and bones and member in good standing with the cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and deforAmerican Medical Association, American mity. College of Physicians, Florida Medical At Southwest Florida Rheumatology, Association, and the Hillsborough County Dr. Reddy and her staff work with patients Medical Association. to evaluate and treat rheumatologic disBesides bringing cutting edge ease as well as provide in-office infusion advances to her patients, she passes on therapies, diagnostic ultrasound, and her knowledge. Dr. Reddy continues as labs. There is true commitment behind part of the teaching faculty at Brandon Dr. Reddy’s practice, “I have a passion for Regional Hospital and Blake Regional patient advocacy, patient education as Hospital internal medicine programs that well as to the continued advancement of are part of the University of South Florida my profession in rheumatology. I know medical education system. that patient outcomes improve when Southwest Florida Rheumatology is patients better understand their disease conveniently located in Riverview and state and participate in informed decision- also serves Lithia, Fishhawk, making with their physician.” Bloomingdale, Brandon, Valrico, Before opening her practice in 2010, Gibsonton, Sun City Center, Ruskin, and Dr. Reddy began her career at the Apollo Beach. University of South Florida where she For more information, call 672-2243 was faculty in the Division of or visit www.swflrheum.com. The office is Rheumatology. Her love of research and open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, continued education are evident in the and is located at 11954 Boyette Rd. in many organizations to which she Riverview.


October 2019

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

High School Marching Bands To Perform At Newsome Music Festival

813.413.8900

By Kate Quesada

Local music and color guard. lovers are invited to As the host, the join bands from all Newsome band over the area at the can not compete, 2019 Newsome but it performs an Music Festival this exhibition at the month. On Saturday, end of the compeOctober 26, starting tition before the at 6 p.m., musicians winners are from three local announced. counties will perform “It is a fun for the public and evening for all compete for division ages filled with awards at music, activities Newsome High School is hosting the 2019 and food,” said Newsome High Newsome High School Music Festival on School. Ochalek. “The Saturday, October 26. “The goal of the festival is to bring color guards and bands come togethtogether marching bands in the area who er to present hours of auditory and share a love for music, giving them a plat- visually appealing performances.” form to showcase their hard work,” said The event is also a fundraiser for Festival Co-Chair Heather Ochalek. “We band with concessions, ticket sales, would love to see the community join merchandise sales and program sales Newsome in celebrating the successes of funding clinicians, new equipment and these bands as well as encourage and music resources. inspire future musicians.” Admission for the event is $15 for The Festival is an annual sanctioned adults and $10 for students and senior regional competition of the Florida citizens over 65 years old. Children 5 Marching Band Championship (FMBC) and under enter for free. band circuit. “We would love to have the com“We are one of many events through- munity attend,” said Reed. “It’s amazout the fall that culminates in the FMBC ing to see what high school students State Championships in Daytona Beach,” are capable of doing on a football said Newsome Director of Bands Mitchell field. This is a great showcase of Reed. musical talent, hard work and dedicaDuring the event, each band has tion.” 15 minutes to perform and a panel of To learn more about the band, eight judges provide written and email nhswolfpackband@gmail.com. recorded feedback. They are judged Newsome High School is located at on music, marching, overall visual 16550 FishHawk Blvd. and can be effect, overall music effect, percussion reached at 740-4600.

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Page 46

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 18, Issue 10

Cirque du Soleil AXEL Is Back on Ice With New Experience

Staff Report

young man and his dynamic group of friends, whose passion for live music and graphic arts come to life in an exhilarating adventure that reminds us all that our dreams are within reach. Discover this young artist as he falls for the fascinating Lei in a high speed chase for love and self-realizaCirque du Soleil AXEL is the group’s second creation combining acrobatics and live music on ice. You can tion. Get lifted by the electrifysee it at Amalie Arena from Thursday, October 31 through Sunday, November 3. ing experience of Cirque du Cirque du Soleil is proud to Soleil AXEL, with stunning performancannounce its return on ice with a new cre- es that blend ice-skating, acrobatics and ation that will spin you into the vibrant live music will leave all audiences world of Cirque du Soleil AXEL. This astounded. unique experience will showcase worldCirque du Soleil AXEL is the 48th class acrobatic skating performances set original production of Cirque du Soleil, in fantastical universes combining fullpart of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment spectrum visual effects and awesome live Group, and its second on-ice experimusic that seamlessly integrates popular ence. songs with new original scores. Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Cirque du Soleil AXEL will be preGroup is a world leader in live entertainsented at the Amalie Arena, 401 ment. On top of producing worldChannelside Dr. in Tampa, for seven perrenowned circus arts shows, the formances only starting October 31. Canadian organization brings its cre“The success of our first creation on ative approach to a large variety of ice has reinforced our ambition to further entertainment forms such as multimedia explore the extensive creative possibilities productions, immersive experiences, of a frozen playground,” said Daniel theme parks and special events. Fortin, Vice President AXEL will run: Thursday and Friday, Creation. “With Cirque du Soleil October 31 and November 1 at 7:30 AXEL, we will offer a truly electrifying p.m., Saturday, November 2 at 11:30 experience to all audiences, pushing the a.m. and 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. and boundaries of creativity with the unique Sunday, November 3 at 1 and 5 p.m. approach that has forged the reputation More information and tickets are of Cirque du Soleil.” available at cirquedusoleil.com/AXEL or Embark on the journey of Axel, a visit www.amaliearena.com.

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October 2019

Page 47

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

New Strandhill Public Irish Pub Joins Brandon In Falkenburg Plaza

Locally Owned & Operated

By Libby Hopkins

There is an celebrating traditionIrish saying that al Irish culture. goes, “May your “The color troubles be less scheme is warm and your blessand inviting, while ings be more and the space is light, nothing but hapbright and airy,” piness come Martin said. “The through your photos are originals door.” Many local from Ireland, the residents have quality of food is Strandhill Public is a modern Irish pub been happy upon celebrating traditional Irish culture at 10288 stellar and the beverCauseway Blvd. in Brandon. entering the door age program has of the Strandhill Public, a new Irish pub been carefully curated. I have designed that recently joined the Brandon commuand built our draught beer system around nity. Guinness.” “I wanted to combine a connection to Martin will be opening a second home, Strandhill, with public which for me Strandhill Public in Tampa in the upcomstands for public house and public house ing months, but right now, he is focusing is the origin for pub,” said Strandhill Public the Brandon location because Martin, his owner Rory Martin. wife Jennifer and their two young sons, Martin grew up in County Sligo, Finely and Cillian, call the Brandon comNorthwest Ireland. His parents owned a munity home. pub and the family lived above it. Martin “There is a great community spirit in spent his teenage years surfing the cold Brandon and I wanted to add to that with Atlantic waves at the beach in Strandhill, something authentic and unique,” Martin Ireland, and named his pub after his said. “I want Strandhill Public to become favorite surfing spot. a staple for many years in the Brandon “My dad taught me how to pour a community.” perfect pint of Guinness when I was 12 If you’d like to learn more about years old,” Martin said. “I opened my first Strandhilll Public and see all the delicious, bar in New York in 2010 called Blue authentic Irish food it has to offer, visit Haven.” www.strandhillpublic.com or call Martin at Martin said, “I have since opened 442-7080. three more, Blue Haven East, My Friend Strandhill Public is located at 10288 Duke and now Strandhill Public. I was Causeway Blvd. in Brandon just past also hired by The Wilson Company to Falkenburg Rd. Hours of operation are open and operate CW’s Gin Joint in Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Downtown Tampa.” Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; and Strandhill Pubic is a modern Irish pub Sundays, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

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Page 48

Volume 18, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

THE BEST HOMES

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