Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk February 2020 by Osprey Observer

Two Sections, 44 Pages of Community News

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

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

February 2020 Volume 19, Issue 2 Ph: 657-2418 1 8

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Cardinal Roofing Hosts Clay Shoot Fundraiser For Veteran Honor Flights

Students Of The Year Race Raises Funds For Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Cardinal zations committed Roofing hosts its to honoring veterseventh annual ans with all-expensClay Shoot es paid ‘Honor Fundraiser— Tours’ to their Shoot For Those memorials in Who Shot For Washington D.C. U.S.—on Friday, According to the March 6 from Department of 11:30 a.m.-2:30 Veterans Affairs, an p.m. The commuestimated 640 nity is invited to WWII veterans die participate in a each day. The time Cardinal Roofing hosts its seventh annual fun day of shootto express thanks to Clay Shoot Fundraiser—Shoot For Those ing sporting clay Who Shot For U.S.—on Friday, March 6 to these brave veterraise money for Honor Flight of West Central ans is running out. and help raise Florida and Flight to Honor of Polk County. money to fly vet“These veterans Pictured at last year’s event is veteran Glen erans to sacrificed so much Greenley; Roger Jenkins, co-owner of Washington D.C. Cardinal Roofing; Jason Simmons; and veter- for our country,” said an Tom Karnowski. with Honor Flight Wilson. “I love seeof West Central Florida and Flight to ing our community coming together to Honor of Polk County. The event is takgive back to them in this way.” ing place at FishHawk Sporting Clays, This year, Cardinal Roofing has partlocated at 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. nered with Chick-fil-A in Valrico – in Lithia. Brandon South as its founding sponsor. Proceeds from the event benefits Other sponsors for the event include Honor Flight of West Central Florida and Empire Building Supply, Phillips Creative Flight to Honor of Polk County. Bridget and the Osprey Observer Newspaper. Jenkins Wilson, owner of Cardinal Sponsors are still needed for T-shirts, rafRoofing, was inspired to start this fle prizes and goody bag items as well as fundraiser after becoming a guardian for an alcohol beverage sponsor for after the a veteran during an honor flight in 2013. event. Wilson has made four trips escorting vetShoot for Those Who Shot For U.S. erans to Washington D.C. is currently registering teams and individ“I love everything about this event,” uals for the event. A team of four can said Wilson. “It’s a privilege to be able register for $500 or individuals can regisraise money to gift a war-era veteran a ter for $150. Trophies will be awarded for day of honor and appreciation for their best male shooter, best female shooter sacrifices. The Clay Shoot Fundraiser and ‘most likely to improve’ shooter. In has raised more than $75,000 over the addition, there will be a food, raffle prizes past seven years. Our goal is to raise and goody bags. To register, call 689more than $10,000 during this year’s clay 7663 or visit www.girlroofer.com. shoot.” For more information about honor Honor Flight of West Central Florida flights, visit www.honorflightwcf.org or and Flight to Honor are nonprofit organiwww.polkveteranscouncil.com.

Newsome High every three minutes School students someone is diagnosed Brady and Ryder with a blood cancer Davis are working and, unlike other canhard this month to cer, it is not possible to raise money for the screen for or prevent Leukemia & most blood cancers. Lymphoma Society “The only solution is (LLS). The Valrico to focus on cures,” said residents are runMiranda-Dubay. ning for the charity’s Brady and Ryder Davis, with Marissa Funds raised during coveted Students of Peddie, the Leukemia & Lymphoma the campaign are used Society’s (LLS) 2020 Patient Hero, the Year title, which to develop targeted formed Team Wolves and are raising will be given to the therapies that kill cancer funds this month with the hope of team that raises the being named the LLS Students of the cells selectively, sparing Year. most money for the patient’s healthy LLS’s mission before the Grand Finale cells and resulting in fewer related side Gala on Saturday, February 29. effects. LLS also provides free informa“We want to help raise money to fight tion and counseling to help patients naviblood cancers because it affects so many gate their cancer journey and supports children under the age of 20,” say Brady advocacy for laws to ensure patients can and Ryder, who are 14-year-old twins. access the care and treatments they The twins were nominated to run for need. the honor by Rebecca Arenas, a member All donations to the campaign are are of the LLS Board of Trustees and chair of tax deductible and Brady and Ryder are the group’s Young Professional Council, also looking for donations for the Grand who felt the brothers would make a great Finale Gala’s silent auction. To learn team to represent Lithia and Valrico as more, visit their team page most of the other 25 student teams are at https://events.lls.org/sun/suncoastfrom the Tampa area, representing high soy20/twolves. For more information schools including Academy of the Holy about LLS, please visit www.lls.org. Names, Tampa Prep and Berkley Prep. They decided to name themselves Team Wolves as a nod to Newsome High School’s mascot. During the seven-week campaign, students raise money through fundraisers and donation drives to support a teenage Patient Hero who is currently battling or is in remission from a blood cancer. This See Ad On Page 27 year’s Patient Hero is Marissa Peddie, MAKE A WISH ....................................PG 4 who was diagnosed with leukemia when she was 8 years old. NEW PASTOR AT BELL SHOALS ..........PG 8 During the campaign, each dollar is a BSAC TRIDENT GALA........................PG 10 vote and the candidate team that raises the most money at the end of the seven SOUP FOR THE SOUL .......................PG 11 weeks is named Students of the Year. “Our mission is to not only raise the EYE ON BUSINESS ............................PG 25 most money but also to bring attention to MOTORING ......................................PG 36 blood cancers like leukemia,” added Brady and Ryder. READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE According to LLS Student of the Year www.ospreyobserver.com Campaign Manager Niki Miranda-Dubay,

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Congratulations to the Bloomingdale Senior High School Cheerleading Team for placing third out of twenty-nine high schools at the County Championship! They competed at Regionals in January that was held at Plant City High School and then will compete at Nationals in Orlando Saturday, February 6. Cheerleaders posed for a quick picture while fundraising in front of Publix at their hat drop. For more information or to be to a Bloomingdale Bull Cheer sponsor, visit www.bshsboosters.com.

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Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

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February 2020

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Fundraiser Hosted By IMPACT Program, Inc. Will Support Healthy Teen Choices Message

By Gwen Rollings

Have you ever to the messages they wondered how to present. “Very often make a positive when we return to a impact on the lives school for a second of teens? IMPACT session—there are usuProgram, Inc. does ally five sessions in a that in Hillsborough series—students will and some surcome up to us and say, rounding counties ‘I was hoping you by educating, would come equipping, empowback!’ Teens IMPACT’s Fundraising Tea and ering and supportare enthusiasFashion Show at Tin Roof ing students, partic about our Trading Company promises to ents and teachers Teen IMPACT be fun and informative. regarding healthy lifestyles and relationand even volunteer or ships. If you ever wondered how you join our Summer Staff Program.” could support or become involved with The Parent Program affirms that such a life-changing organization, parents can and should be the primary IMPACT invites you on Saturday, educators of their children when it February 29 to come to its fundraising comes to sexuality and character. Tea and Fashion Show at the Tin Roof According to recent polls, teens list their Trading Company in Lithia. The doors parents as their number one role modwill open at 10:30 a.m. At 11 a.m., the els. According to leadership expert event begins with the tea and light lunch, Stephen Covey, “Role modeling is the a guest speaker, a fashion show and a most basic responsibility of parents.” silent auction for a $25 registration fee. According to the American Medical IMPACT Program, Inc.’s vision is to Association, a study of 12,000 adolesserve the community in public and pricents showed that children whose parvate middle and high schools, churches ents held high expectations for them had and community organizations in the area higher school achievement and fewer of sexual risk avoidance. Through its risk-taking behaviors. Parental and other Teen IMPACT, Parent Program and significant adults’ involvement in Classroom Eduation, teens are encourIMPACT is a vital component. aged to say ‘yes’ to healthy relationships Kagey anticipates that the upcoming and a positive future by saying ‘no’ to fundraising Tea and Fashion Show will premarital sex, drugs, tobacco and alconot only be fun and informative but will hol. encourage open dialogue about the Angie Kagey, executive director of messages that positively impact the the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, said future of our youth. Visit www.whatisimthat the students are extremely receptive pact.com or call Kagey at 264-9368.

Take A Gamble To Support Newsome Student Athletes The Newsome High School Athletic Boosters are planning a good time for a good cause this month. Tickets are still available for the group’s third annual Casino Night, which will take place on Friday, February 28 from 7-11 p.m. to raise funds for the school’s 23 sports teams and the hundreds of athletes that participate in them. According to Casino Night Coordinator Christi Morgan, the event, which is open to anyone 21 years of age or older, will involve games, food and drinks for the cost of a ticket. “We will have blackjack, craps, roulette and Texas hold ’em,” said Morgan. “The ticket price includes catered dinner, dessert, two drink tickets and $1,000 in casino cash.” The event will also feature additional entertainment, including a silent auction with a basket provided by each sports team and a 50/50 raffle. Money raised at the event will go to pay for wish list items presented by the high school’s sports teams.

By Stacy Huisman

“These funds are used to help supplement the county funds for athletics. Some of the wish list items include tournament fees, HUDL accounts featuring iPads the coaches use to record games and for training purposes, uniforms, trainer supplies, food stipends for regional and state tournaments and a new board for the track stadium,” said Morgan. Last year, the event had approximately 250 attendees and raised more than $18,000. The Casino Night will take place at Gable Oaks Ranch on 1201 Swilley Rd. in Plant City. The new location in Plant City has room to accommodate an even larger crowd than last year along with air conditioning and heating. Newsome Athletic Booster Club is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support to the athletes and coaches in all sports at Newsome High School. Memberships and business sponsorships are also available. For more information, contact Christie_Morgan@verizon.net.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 2

Run Hillsborough Series Features Races In Riverview And Dover

You Can Help Make A Wish Come True For A Critically Ill Child If You Walk For Wishes

November 1 and ends on Monday, March 1, where participants can earn a medal or patch by hiking on at Run Hillsborough 5K features four races from January through April at dif- least eight ferent parks located around the county. designated Do you want to start 2020 on the trails located throughout the county. right foot? Hillsborough County has creat“Walking, running, anything you can ed a fun, unique race for local runners. do with the outdoors is definitely a benefit Run Hillsborough 5K features four to you healthwise,” said Bowers. races from January through April at differ- “Connecting our community with our ent parks located around the county, parks, whether it be through playing on a including Riverview on Saturday, playground, taking a hike or running a 5K, February 15 and Dover on Saturday, that’s our goal as a department, to conMarch 21. This is the first year that the nect our parks and our communities and county has offered a race series. the families that live in them.” According to the Hillsborough County The next race will be on Saturday, website, races allow participants to comFebruary 15 at 12108 Rhodine Rd. in pete against other racers on a journey Riverview. Check in at 7:30 a.m., and the through nature preserves, conservation 5K Race starts at 8:30 a.m. parks, streams, trails and a variety of terOther upcoming races in the Run rains. All participants get a T-shirt and can Hillsborough series include the William claim their medal at the end of the race. Owens Pass Park 5K on Saturday, March On January 11, the first race of the 21 at 1300 Sydney Dover Rd. in Dover series, the Ed Radice event, featured a and the Carrollwood Village Park 5K 5K race/one-mile walk. Pets were allowed on Saturday, April 18 at 4680 West on the walk as well. According to Vince Village Dr. in Tampa. Bowers, Hillsborough County Parks & Fees are $30 per runner for the 5K Recreation program supervisor, about and $15 for the walk. For more informa100 runners participated in the race. tion, contact Vince Bowers Bowers said that the county offered (BowersV@hcflgov.net) or call 557-8272. two races in 2018 and that they wanted Runners can also view their race results expand on that, as well as their annual on HillsboroughCounty.org. Hiking Spree that starts on Sunday,

Wishes really do Flinn, vice president of come true for some very RIPA, encourages this special children. Maketeam rivalry because A-Wish Southern Florida he believes in the has been granting wishMake-A-Wish philosoes since 1983 and now phy that these lifegrants a wish every 14 changing wishes give hours to critically ill chilchildren renewed enerdren. In its 36-year histogy and strength and ry, the organization has can unite communities. granted more than Flinn, who is also the 11,000 wishes to Florida Alex Zehr was granted his wish from chair of the Tampa Bay the Make-A-Wish Southern Florida Advisory Board for children. The average to go on a Disney cruise. cost for a wish is $8,000. Make-A-Wish, is espeHoping to raise $150,000 cially excited about the for at least 18 more wishWalk For Wishes and es is the goal of Walk For said, “This is the only Wishes, a fundraiser takevent where participants ing place on the morning will actually have an of Saturday, February 8 at Julian B. Lane opportunity to meet with children who had Riverfront Park on 1001 N Blvd. in their wishes come true. People can talk Tampa. Walk For Wishes is family-friendly with these kids, their parents and siblings with a 1.3 mile route and is pet, stroller to find out how these wishes have and wheelchair accessible with free park- impacted the lives of the recipients and ing. The event is powered by volunteers, their families.” companies, wish families, donors and Families like those of Alex, whose friends. wish was granted in 2017 to go on a The walk is powered by volunteers Disney cruise, and his parents, who are like Boy Scout Leader Don Campbell and now trained volunteer wish granters, help members of Boy Scout Troop 61 support the fundraiser. Halley Stennes, (Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale), special events coordinator, said, “This who will participate in the walk and also year, we are even celebrating a Wish create and stuff goody bags for other Reveal, where a wish child will be walkers. brought upon the stage, and they will find It is also powered by companies like out their wish is coming true.” RIPA and Associates, which organized a Do you want to transform lives, one friendly team competition among employ- wish at a time? There is still time to form ees to see which team can raise the most a team, volunteer or donate. Registration money. The goal for RIPA this year is to times, walk start time and fee information raise enough to grant two wishes. John can be found on walkforwishestampa.org.

By Nick Nahas

Expiration: 2.29.2020

By Gwen Rollings

Expiration: 2.29.2020

February 2020

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

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

First and third Tuesday of the 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.

Alzheimer’s Association And Dementia Caregiver Support Groups

Join us in the Tessera of Brandon event center every second Wednesday at 2 p.m. and every third Monday at 7 p.m. 1320 Oakfield Dr., Brandon; call 607-6880 Join us at Campo Family YMCA every third Friday through May at 1:30 p.m. 3414 Culbreath Rd., Valrico

Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pet Foods

Saturday, March 7; 11 a.m.-12 Noon p.m. Kim’s Natural Pet Foods, 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.

Spring Vegetable Gardening Seminar

Saturday, February 22; 10 a.m. Kerby’s Nursery, 2311 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner Kids, and even some adults, don't always like to eat their veggies, but what if they knew where they came from and helped to plant a backyard garden? Come learn how to plant a backyard garden at the free Spring Veggie Gardening Seminar. Call 685-3265 or visit www.kerbysnursery.com.

Plant City Social Dancing

Saturday, February 22; 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Cost $6 Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade Blvd., Plant City Dance to the music by DJ Ken Miller. Complementary dance lessons from 6-6:30 p.m., beginners to advanced. No alcohol. Bring your own snacks and drinks. Visit strawberrysquaredancing.com.

Compost, Microirrigation And Rainwater Harvesting Workshops

Saturday, March 7; UF/IFAS Extension in Hillsborough County 5339 CR 579, Seffner Attend one or all workshops. Compost attendees receive a compost bin an more. Microirrigation attendees receive a micro kit and more. Rainwater harvesting attendees receive a rain barrel. Pre-registration required: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/. Small fee per household.

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/.

Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Tuesday, February 18 and March 24; Wednesday, February 12; and Thursday, February 6 and March 12 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.

Riverview Library Master Gardener Library Programs

10509 Riverview Dr., Riverview Garden Treasures Rediscovered; Tuesday, February 4 at 6:30 p.m. Discover ways to reuse items in the garden usually thrown out or considered useless. Learn inventive ways to make your garden unique, full of fun and beauty and also provide for garden wildlife. Contact Anne Marie Boehm at 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, at 767-1569

Parkinson's Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon

Third Tuesday of the month; 6 p.m. Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.

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Page 6

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 2

European Flavors Polish Market Brings A Taste Of Europe To Brandon

Adults Get To Play Like A Kid Again At Glazer Children’s Museum’s Grown Up Nights

Pierogi, paczki, greeting of someone golabki and kielbasa who loves what she might be words that does. “Whenever cusdon’t flow easily over tomers come in and the tongue as you say see all our homemade them, but the foods, they recall memdumplings, pastries, ories from their past of stuffed cabbage rolls parents and grandparand sausages become ents who made or wonderful flavors as bought many of the they flow over the things we carry. It palette as you eat makes them very them. All of these Kasia Pogorzelski, Owner and happy, and that makes foods and more are Chef Extraordinaire prepares me happy. Every Friday fresh foods every day. available at the we want to start servEuropean Flavors ing white fish which is a Polish Market in Polish tradition.” Brandon. Only open for You don’t have to eight months at 648 be born in Poland or of Oakfield Drive, it has European descent as captured the local niche she makes Floridians market for Polish and happy, too, with her European foods and homemade breads, drinks. pierogi and soups like The success of European Flavors beet, chicken, tomato and cucumber. Polish Market is due to the expertise Her daughter, Julia, is in high school and dedication of Kasia Pogorzelski, and helps out at the market on owner, bakery chef, and preparer Saturday. “My mother makes someextraordinaire of Polish and European thing fresh and different every day. I soups and entrees. Pogorzelski especially like my mother’s pastries, worked for years in a bakery in and many come here just for them. In Poland before coming to Chicago in fact, everyone is invited on Thursdays 2003 with Mariusz, her husband, and for fresh Polish cakes and pastries daughter, Julia. After moving to like cheesecake, apple cake and ginBrandon in 2018, family and friends gerbread with whipped cream.” encouraged Pogorzelski to open If you want to get there early for European Flavors as other similar freshly baked pastries or Polish markets were an hour away. sausage, the market is open Monday Pogorzelski welcomes each cus– Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and tomer with the smile and friendly Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Irish playwright cost $25 and George Bernard include free Shaw once said, beer by Florida “We don’t stop Avenue playing because Brewing and we grow old; we snacks from grow old because local restauwe stop playing.” rants while supThe creative minds plies last. There at Glazer is also a cash Glazer Children’s Museum offers Grown Up Children’s Museum bar available for Nights so that adults can learn about the (GCM) would cocktails. In the museum while having fun playing. The next Grown Up Night will take place on Friday, agree with Shaw coming year, March 13 from 5:30-8 p.m. because they GCM hopes to believe you’re never too old to play like a expand Grown Up Night to include even kid. They believe in this so much that they more partnerships with Tampa-based offer adults the opportunity to play like businesses. All the proceeds from Grown kids in the museum every other month. Up Night go to fund the educational proThis playful opportunity is called Grown grams at GCM. “We love Grown Up Night Up Night. because it gives us the opportunity to Grown Up Night started in 2017 as a share our museum with guests who might way to generate funds for GCM, a nonnot otherwise get to play here,” said profit organization. “We started hosting Woods. “We believe that play matters them quarterly and when they started to and hope to inspire the grown ups in our take off, we began hosting Grown Up community to play like kids again.” Night every other month,” said GCM’s Future dates and themes for GCM’s school and youth programs manager, Grown Up Night are March 13 with the Emily Woods. “At this point, we’ve hosted theme being ‘Spring Break’ as well as about 12 Grown Up Nights with themes Friday, May 29 with the theme being ranging from ‘Outer Space’ to ‘Toga ‘School’s Out for Summer.’ Party’.” The next one will take place on If you would like to learn more about Friday, March 13 from 5:30-8 p.m. Grown Up Night at Glazer Children’s GCM’s last Grown Up Night was held Museum or if you’d like to purchase tickon January 10 and was ‘Pirate Invasion’ ets for the event, you can visit the musethemed. Local Gasparilla Krewes invaded um’s website at Grown Up Night, where they passed out https://glazermuseum.org/grownups or beads and posed for photo ops with call 443-3861. Glazer Children’s Museum guests, as well as participating in the is located at 110 W. Gasparilla Plz. in event’s activities. downtown Tampa next to Curtis Hixon Tickets for GCM’s Grown Up Night Park.

By Gwen Rollings

By Libby Hopkins

Look for Changes in Retirement Plans It might not have made the headlines, but a recently passed piece of legislation could aﬀect the IRAs and 401(k)s of millions of Americans beginning in 2020. So, if you have either of these accounts, or if you run a business, you’ll want to learn more.

The new laws, collectively called the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act, include these noteworthy changes: • Higher age for RMDs – Under current law, you must start taking withdrawals – known as required minimum distributions, or RMDs – from your traditional IRA and 401(k) or similar employer‐sponsored plan once you turn 70 ½. The new law pushes the date to start RMDs to 72, which means you can hold on to your retirement savings a bit longer. • No age limit for traditional IRA contributions – Previously, you could only contribute to your traditional IRA until you were 70 ½, but under the SECURE Act, you can now fund your traditional IRA for as long as you have taxable earned income. • Limitation of “Stretch IRA” provisions – Under the old rules, beneficiaries were able to stretch taxable RMDs from a retirement account over his or her lifetime. Under the SECURE Act while spouse beneficiaries can still take advantage of this "stretch" distribution, most non‐spouse beneficiaries will have to take all the RMDs by the end of the tenth year after the account owner passes away. Consequently, non‐spouse beneficiaries who inherit an IRA or other retirement plan could have tax implications due to the need to take larger distributions in a shorter timeframe. • No early withdrawal penalty for IRAs and 401(k)s when new child arrives. Typically, you must pay a 10% penalty when you withdraw funds from your IRA or 401(k) before you reach 59 ½. But now, with the new rules, you can withdraw up to $5,000 from your retirement plan without paying the early withdrawal penalty, as long as you take the money within one year of a child being born or an adoption becoming final.

Some provisions of the SECURE Act primarily affect business owners: • Multi‐employer retirement plans – Unrelated companies can now work together to offer employees a 401(k) plan with less administrative work, lower costs and fewer fiduciary responsibilities than individual employers now encounter when offering their own retirement plans. • Tax credit for automatic enrollment – The new law provides a tax credit of $500 for some smaller employers who set up automatic enrollment in their retirement plans. And a tax credit for establishing a retirement plan has been increased from $500 to $5,000. • Use of annuities in 401(k) plans – It will now be easier for employers to consider including annuities as an investment option within 401(k) plans. Previously, many businesses avoided offering annuities in these plans due to liability concerns related to the annuity provider, but the new rules should help reduce these concerns. The SECURE Act is the most significant change to our retirement savings system in over a decade. We encourage you to contact your financial advisor, tax professional and estate planning attorney to assess the potential impact on your investment strategies and determine any possible tax and estate planning implications of the SECURE Act. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

February 2020

Page 7

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Presbyterian Church Of Bloomingdale Is Growing And Serving The Community

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Rendering of the Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale adult daycare center to assist senior citizens with memory loss. The church is launching a capital campaign to raise funds for the daycare center.

The Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale (PCoB) may seem unassuming from the outside; however, it is bustling with activities and excited about the future plans for serving the community around it. Reverend Susan Hill, the lead pastor, is enthusiastic about the church's future. "My favorite part about Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale is the people in the congregation," said Pastor Hill. “We are an open and welcoming church.” With a history dating back almost 36 years, PCoB has been a mainstay in the Brandon area. In August of 1986, a congregation of 46 people attended worship at a local daycare center, and PCoB was formalized in April 1989. By November 1990, the church had secured land at the current site and broke ground for a facility that would serve the small, committed

congregation. The first service at the present location was held on May 26, 1992. The parishioners are not only committed to their faith and their church, but they are also committed to serving others. “We are a church family in which everyone is participating by being the hands, feet and heart of Christ,” said Pastor Hill. She continued, "We are very mission-focused in meeting the needs of the community and the greater world. We are the home for Boy Scout Troop 61, the nonprofit Seeds of Hope, eight different support groups and a physical fitness group.” In addition, the church is very involved with the Honduran Presbyterian Mission. The congregation supports the Honduran children and youth with educational scholarships, and some of its mem-

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bers will be in Honduras in July to help build houses, support the medical mission and provide a vacation Bible school experience. The newest mission for PCoB is to launch an adult daycare for persons with memory loss. Recent research has indicated that one out of every five people will be affected with memory loss.

“We have many in our community who need this daytime assistance for a family member,” said Pastor Hill. “PCoB’s mission is to meet the needs of senior citizens, persons with disabilities and social injustice with compassion, shelter and dedication to which we are called as God’s people.” The capital campaign to build the adult daycare center on the church grounds kicked off on January 2. There will also be a church yard sale on Saturday, February 29, with proceeds going to support the Honduras mission. The church is located at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. For more information, call 654-3699 or visit www.pcob.us.

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Page 8

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

New Book Invites Women Entrepreneurs To Dream Bigger With Vision Boards, Grace

Staff Report

Shannon Carlton each section to get them invites women entreprecloser to their vision each neurs to dream bigger in and every day. her first book, Manifest Carlton, who was an Your Vision with Grace, advertising sales repreGratitude and Growth, a sentative for the Osprey guide to getting unstuck Observer prior to opening and creating the life you her business, CoWork desire using vision boards, Landing in Brandon, said available now on Amazon. that, “Once you create So many times your vision board and women entrepreneurs begin the process of allow ‘surviving’ to get in working toward your the way of their dreams. vision, not only will you They can use this book as be more motivated to a tool to help transform make significant changes their lives into ones that in your routines, you will Shannon Carlton’s new book, are inspired and impactful. absolutely change your Manifest Your Vision with Grace, Gratitude and Growth, life and the lives of your It is entirely possible women entrepreneurs’ guide family because of your to create vision boards to getting unstuck and and never find what you creating the lives they desire vision.” using vision boards, is now are looking for in the real Carlton is a first-time available on Amazon. world. A study in author, vision board trainPsychology Today actually suggested er, accountability coach and coworking that vision boards can be harmful space owner. Along with owning her because simply staring at your vision coworking space, she has helped board won’t get you very far. You have to women envision their lives for the past put your plans into action. four years with vision boards and That is where Carlton’s new book accountability training. Her goal with this comes in. Her book is designed to help book is to encourage women small the reader create the life she wants to business owners everywhere to dream live by constructing a vision board and big and keep their vision in the forefront then digging deep into setting goals and of their life. creating habits that will take her closer Order the book on Amazon in to her vision. paperback and Kindle. You can also This practical guide helps women work with Carlton one-on-one or set up identify their vision in four quadrants of a vision board workshop with your life (health and wellness, life’s work, group or company. Contact Carlton at relationships and time and money freeshannon@coworklandingbrandon.com dom) and gives them practical steps in or 924-4679.

Bell Shoals Baptist Church Introduces New Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney Dr. Corey Abney has been named the new senior pastor at Bell Shoals Baptist Church. Bell Shoals has been without a senior pastor since February 2019, when Dr. Stephen Rummage was called to pastor a church in Oklahoma City after serving in Brandon for nearly 10 years. As senior pastor, Dr. Abney will lead the multi-campus congregation’s vision and strategy and will preach on Sundays at the Brandon campus, located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. His first Sunday at the Brandon campus was December 22. Dr. Abney also lead Christmas Eve services. 44-year-old Dr. Abney is currently the lead pastor of Florence Baptist Church in Northern Kentucky, where he has served since 2012. “I am eager to start serving at Bell Shoals,” Dr. Abney said, following the church’s unanimous affirming of his call on November 24. “This is a church with a rich history in West Central Florida, and I know that God wants to guide our church toward even better days in the future.” At Florence Baptist, Dr. Abney led the church to see a 32 percent increase in worship attendance while increasing its giving by 35 percent and reducing its debt by nearly 50 percent. He also has led the church to start two

By Kevin Bumgarner

On November 24, Dr. Corey Abney preached for the Bell Shoals congregation and accepted the position as senior pastor that same evening.

new churches and establish multiple partnerships in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati. He also launched a second campus for Florence Baptist as part of a revitalization effort. “Our Senior Pastor Search Committee did an excellent job of bringing Corey Abney to us,” said Gary Payne, Bell Shoals’ executive pastor. “We are all looking forward to his leadership.” Dr. Abney and his wife, Christina, have four children. He has a Doctor of Philosophy in Preaching, Old Testament and New Testament from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. For more information about Bell Shoals, visit www.bellshoals.com or call the office at 689-4229.

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Page 9

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

FishHawk Resident Competes For Wrestling World Title At Lithia Church

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FishHawk year in Lithia resident and won, so he Landon ‘The feels like he has New Breed’ a great chance Crews will have to win again a chance to with bigger compete for the stakes than Continental before. Championship Other Wrestling matches on the (CCW) world lineup card title on include Tag Saturday, Team February 15 at Champions Photos courtesy of the CCW Grace Cecil Andrews Landon Crews putting the finishing move on his opponent. Community and Shooter United Methodist Church in Lithia. McGee, who will be defending their world Crews became a part of the CCW title against Chris Turner and Cody after he graduated from Newsome High Knight. Nate Powers, Solo Jones, School last year and has been traveling Darryon Drummond, Mike Anthony and all over the country doing shows in front Geno Addonis will be in action as well. of large crowds every week ever since. Crews is training in preparation for He is excited to be back in his hometown the event every day of the week that to compete for the title in front of family he’s not doing a show. He says that this and friends. is the biggest match that he’s had in his “I’m super excited. I think it gives me young career thus far. “I’m going to work a home field advantage,” Crews said. harder than I’ve ever worked before, and Crews had been the Southern States I’m excited to be there in front of the Champion of the CCW for over 400 days home town, and I think everyone is realuntil losing that title in January. He was ly going to enjoy it. It’s a moment that voted Wrestler of the Year for 2019 by I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid.” fans, giving him a shot at the world title in According to Crews, the event is a the main event in Lithia. He will be facing family-friendly show and tickets can be the CCW’s Daniel Anderson, and if he bought in advance through the church wins, he will be the youngest ever world for $9. Tickets can also be purchased at champion at age 20. the door for $10. The show is a According to Crews, Anderson is the fundraiser for Grace Community United leader of the Diamond Exchange, the Methodist Church. For more informagroup in the CCW that owns all of the tion, visit the website at current titles. Crews faced Anderson last www.CCWrestling.biz.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Ahoy, Mateys! Grub, Spirits And Booty Are Promised At BSAC’s TRIDENT Treasure Gala

By Gwen Rollings

BSAC Aerobics Class

Imagine receiving an invitation to ‘Come Carouse, Pillage and Plunder’ and, oh, also to come dressed as a pirate…all for a good cause. That is what the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) encourages people to do at the TRIDENT Treasure Gala being held from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 15. More than 425 guests are expected to attend at The Regent in Riverview. Beware, mateys, the invitation also includes a light-hearted warning for those who jump ship: “The party will include spirits and grub, auctions full of booty and plenty of fun, to be sure. Join in for some fun; we wouldn’t want you to have to walk the plank. Arrrgh!” The ‘good cause’ part is that proceeds from the event will support scholarship awards at BSAC, a communitybased 501(c)(3) organization and nonprofit finalist in the Tampa Bay Business Journal. The gala will be the signature event of the year for BSAC, which offers after-school care, youth drowning prevention, sports, recreation and special needs education such as the TRIDENT program. “The TRIDENT program is available for special needs adults over 22 years old who have aged out of school resources. We are unique in helping this special

needs community to learn life skills and receive hands-on job training because there are not a lot of programs offering these services,” said Carli Walko, director of marketing. Scholarships help people like Mary Francis. She entered the TRIDENT program six years ago as an adult with Down syndrome who aged out of school with few prospects for the future. According to Candy Corsi, director of special needs programming, “Mary Francis lost over

80 pounds since coming to BSAC. She competes in Special Olympics events, teaches a Yoga class for others here, does line dancing and gives 120 percent to everything. My son, William, entered TRIDENT mentally delayed and now is a mentor and athletic leader/global messenger for Special Olympics. He now works in maintenance at BSAC.” This party includes a pirate grog (open bar), swashbuckling games, Shiver Me Timbers sit down dinner, speaker, silent auction and live auction with treasure troves of booty, such as a six-night Fairmont Resort Getaway in Banff, Calgary and Lake Louise with airfare for two. For sponsorship opportunities or ticket purchase information, please contact Walko at 689-0908 ext. 108 or visit www.TheTridentTreasureGala.com.

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Volume 19, Issue 2

February 2020

Page 11

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Randall Middle School Students Are Ready To Feed Your Soul

By Stacy Huisman

Randall Middle School’s Seeds of Hope Club (SOH) is a student-led and run organization whose mission is fighting hunger in our local area. The club is assisted with a handful of teachers and parent volunteers. Soup for the Soul, which will take place on Wednesday, February 19 from 6-8 p.m. at Randall Middle School, is the club’s only fundraiser and all funds go directly to the club to continue purchasing food every week. Tickets are $15 per person. Every ticket purchased includes a chef-prepared dinner of soup, bread and salad. The ticket prices also include sponsoring a backpack filled with food for a family of four packed and delivered by SOH Club members. With each bowl of soup, attendees will be gifted an artisan woodAbby Huisman counts backen spoon commissioned for this packs of food for each school to help fight food insecurity in our event by Randall’s art teacher, Mrs. local area. Carpenter. Entertainment for the evening will provided by Randall’s Wednesday morning Got Talent and there be additional before school starts to opportunities to sponsor backpacks pack food purchased and schools with food. It is also offerearlier that week. The ing Soup-to-Go if someone is unable food is not donated, and to make the event but would still like every backpack packed to help. has a price of $10 to fill. Every week since the September, Each week, SOH covers Randall’s SOH Club students pack the $2,000 grocery bill more than 215 backpacks and bags to feed more than 215 full of a food—enough to feed a famistudents and their family of four two nutritious meals. There lies in our community. are more than 200 SOH Club memSince the beginning of school, bers who work hard every members have packed more than

every week prior to the start of the weekend. From peanut butter to canned meat, vegetables to soup mixes, SOH buys thousands of dollars worth of food every week to feed local kids. Eighth grader Erik Huisman and his sixth grade sister, Abby, are both SOH Club members at Randall. They take pride in giving back to their community each week. “This is my third year with the club. I get to work with like-minded kids who want to give back to our community. It gives me a sense of accomplishment each week,” said Erik. For Abby, it’s not only social, it means something. “I like the teamwork, it’s fun to work with my friends. I also like filling the bags Nearly 200 students at Randall with food, because I know it will Middle School’s Seeds of Hope feed another kid,” she said. Club work to pack bags every The club is run by SOH volunmonth for the weekly delivery of teer leader Liz Higgins with help food to nearby schools. from parent volunteer Stacy 2,600 backpacks full of Huisman, Lori Sanders and Leslie food, providing 10,400 Kaloostian. Randall teachers Ms. meals for local families. Tucy, Ms. Deschnow, Mrs. Carpenter Volunteer parents spend and Dr. Bradner help weekly with hours organizing, orderorganizing and unloading food from a ing and delivering meals truck donated by George Shea. It’s a to 12 different elemenwell-run machine that gets better tary and middle schools each week thanks to middle schoolin our local area that ers with a drive to serve. Randall have students struggling Middle School is located at 16510 with food insecurity. With the help of Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. school counselors, students are idenFor more information, email Liz tified, and backpacks are delivered Higgins at caseyjimmy@yahoo.com.

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Page 12

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

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Page 13

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

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Volume 19, Issue 2

New County Skate Park Opens In FishHawk Ranch

By Kate Quesada

After from input months of from the comanticipation, munity and a the 7,000 desire for biksq. ft. skate ers to be able park and to use the pump track same track in FishHawk frequented by Ranch skaters,” she opened to added. all The faciliHillsborough ty was County residesigned for Hillsborough County’s first skate park and pump track dents last beginner and opened last month in FishHawk Ranch and is open to the month. The intermediate public free of charge. park, which skaters and includes the first all-wheel pump track features transitional elements, including a built by Hillsborough County, can be used mini ramp with an extension, a manny by riders on bikes, skateboards and pad, various rails and ledges, various skates. quarterpipes, stairs and a Euro gap. According to Dana McDonald with According to McDonald, new trash cans Hillsborough County Parks and have been ordered and the park will soon Recreation, the park was built on land feature seating. Scooters and any motordeeded to the county by FishHawk devel- ized vehicles are not permitted on the opers and county staff with work by track. FishHawk Community Development Residents of all ages from throughout District (CDD) employees on the facility’s the area have been enjoying the park upkeep. since its opening. “The park is maintained by the Thirteen-year-old FishHawk resident FishHawk CDD, though the county will be Kavan Roy was one of the first visitors to responsible for major repairs and dealing the new park when it opened. He feels with any graffiti reported by the CDD,” that it is a great addition to the communisaid McDonald. ty. McDonald also explained that the “I love the skate park,” said Roy. “If I county decided to move forward with the could, I’d spend all day every day there.” skate park and pump track combination The park, which is located at 5720 after seeking feedback from FishHawk Osprey Ridge Dr., is open from sunrise to area residents. sunset. To learn more, visit www.hillsbor“The decision to build the park came oughcounty.org.

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

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Page 14

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Page 15

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Set Your Sights On Fun At Heroes Paradise

By Brian Bokor

Heroes Paradise, was a need to develop a located at 733 Knowles family-oriented entertainRd. in Brandon, is a ment facility that partfamily-owned entertainnered with local first ment center that aims responders in order to to provide a meeting create a new haven for place where people of the community to come all ages can play a part together. They think in having fun and creHeroes Paradise will proating strong bonds vide that opportunity for within our community this and future generabetween first respontions to come. Colin (left), Tim ders, military members, Every aspect of the (back middle), Julie (front), Ethan (front families and youth. center has been crafted middle) and Dylan (right). The facility is now around family with traces of open and welcoming all ages to come the Pennengas found within the business and engage in activities such as: tactical as well. Their logo, featuring a beautiful laser tag with four different fields to pup as the star, is inspired by a member choose from, an interactive rock wall, on of their family, Ragnar, a 4-year-old and off-road remote control (RC) cars, vir- Belgian Malinois. You can meet Ragnar tual reality, archery tag and one-of-a-kind at Heroes Paradise and even bring your yard games. With eight acres of property pup to join in on the fun as all of the outand various attractions, there is somedoor areas on the property are dogthing for everybody of any age. friendly. The owners of the establishment, In addition to five fields of game play, Julie and Tim Pennenga, conceived this there is a two-story air-conditioned clubdream four years ago when they purhouse with views of all the fields so chased the property that was previously everyone can watch the action under the the Hidden Palms Tennis Club. The club comfort of a cool breeze. There is also a had been left abandoned for years and second story deck that overlooks the was a haven for crime and misconduct. main tactical field to allow family and Still, the family persisted, and with the friends to check out the live action up help of their three sons, Colin, Dylan and close. Inside the clubhouse, a wide Ethan, they embarked on a four-year range of amenities can be found, includjourney in restoring the facility and creating a cafe and showers for anyone who ing Heroes Paradise. gets a little too messy on the tactical The inspiration behind the business fields. was sparked from Tim's occupation as a Heroes Paradise also hosts an array Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy cou- of private events, ranging from corporate pled with the family’s desire to provide an team building to birthday parties for all atmosphere where civilians could interreages. Hours of operation are Thursdaylate with and get to know a different side Friday from 1-8 p.m., Saturday from 10 of law enforcement officers. Instead of a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-8 only interacting with our first responders p.m. Hours can be expanded for any in a time of emergency or infraction, the party or private event. Go out and enjoy community can play alongside officers the fun at the newest family-friendly busiand get to know the individuals who serve ness in Brandon. to protect their neighborhood. Visit www.HeroesParadise.com or As residents of the Brandon area for call 833-543-7637 or email nearly 20 years, the Pennengas felt there HeroesParadiseATeam@gmail.com.

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Page 16

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Health Goals Made Easier At The Worx 24Hr Fitness The Worx 24Hr Fitness Owners James and Maryam English’s approach to fitness is simple: make it available to everyone on their own schedule. As many people make the decision to start a fitness journey this year, the couple has designed their always-open fitness centers to fit almost anyone’s lifestyle. “As a new year begins, its a great time to turn your ‘I should work’ out to ‘I must work out,’” said James. Located at 13432 Boyette Rd. in the River Springs Town Center, The Worx 24Hr Fitness offers convenient and affordable exercise. Using a secure access key, members can access the club, even when it’s not staffed. Members have full use of state-of-the-art strength training and cardio equipment. Equipment options include elliptical machines, free weights, stair climbers, punching bags, rowers, stationary bikes and treadmills. The Worx 24Hr Fitness also has expert personal training staff that can help members make fitness goals and keep them on track to reach them. Every new member gets a free health and fitness assessment with one of its master trainers to get a feel for the equipment and services available. River Glen resident Stephanie Smith

By Michelle Caceres

made the decision to join The Worx 24Hr Fitness eight years ago because “The location was right by my neighborhood and was so convenient I decided to give it a try,” said Smith. She joined a small group class that was led by Maryam, who also helped her with a nutrition plan. “I would run, do wind sprints; I was in pain, but it was a good experience to be with other people that were in pain too,” she joked. All joking aside, Smith said the results were extraordinary. Smith lost 30 pounds and felt great. “Exercise has helped improve not only my physical health but my mental health as well,” she said. “I feel better about myself and am more energized.” In addition to its location near FishHawk Ranch, The Worx 24Hr Fitness has two other locations to serve its members at 9050 Progress Blvd. in Riverview and 6422 N. US Hwy. 41 in Apollo Beach. With no enrollment (through February) or cancellation fee and membership options of $15 or $19.99 per month, now is the perfect time to start your journey to a new year this New Year. For more information, visit www.worxgymriverview.com or call 381-3903.

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Volume 19, Issue 2

February 2020

Page 17

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

nco, u B , s ’ r e Alzheim t Fest & Stree e… Mor , santi elle Cole h ic M y db m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e michell

Global Alzheimer’s Platform And Stedman Clinical Trials

Optimize your brain health and ask an expert for updates in Alzheimers disease on Wednesday, February 19 from 12 Noon-1 p.m. at Tessera of Brandon, located on 1320 Oakfield Dr. Enjoy lunch and learn with Jill Smith from the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation and Dr. Mary Stedman from Stedman Clinical Trials. Call 607-6880 or visit TesseraBrandon.com

Historic Ybor City Will Celebrate Its Heritage With All-Day Street Festival

and Jewish heritages. Ybor City is known as a melting pot of originality and culture based on its immigrant population. This event features the traditions of the cultures that have influenced the community and still thrive today. Take a stroll through the historic district and experience the old and new of Ybor City. Vendor and sponsorship opportunities are available for those who would like to join the excitement of Fiesta Day. Information can be found at www.ybor.org/fiestaday.

Vehicle Registration Can Now Be Renewed At Three Publix Locations

Join the Ybor City Chamber of Commerce in honoring the cultures of the city during the annual Fiesta Day Celebration on Saturday, February 22 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Vendors and entertainment will line 7th Ave. and fill the streets with music, art, food and culture. During the celebration, a Promenade of Flags will march down ‘La Septima’ and showcase countries, schools and local businesses that have made Ybor City their home. Fiesta Day commemorates the history of Ybor and highlights the heritages that first immigrated to the ‘Cigar Capital of the World.’ A time that was originally a day of rest for the factory workers has turned into a street festival that brings together Cuban, German, Italian, Spanish

Because renewing your vehicle registration should also be a pleasure, three Publix locations in Hillsborough County now host tax collector self-service kiosks. The new kiosk program, Florida MV Express, allows customers to get a new registration card and license plate sticker in a matter of minutes, as opposed to several days. The blue and yellow kiosks will be available at the grocery chain’s Citrus Park location at 7835 Gunn Hwy., Plant City’s Walden Woods store at 2202 James L. Redman Pkwy. and the Lake Brandon Plaza Publix at 11255 Causeway Blvd. The kiosk program soft-launched last February at four tax collector locations in Brandon, Drew Park, North Tampa and Ruskin and has already processed 20,000 vehicle registrations. While you can still register your vehicle online or at a tax collector branch, neither of those options come with the ability

to take home a Publix chicken tender sub. For more information, visit https://flmvexpresskiosk.com/.

Country Club in Valrico. Check-in begins at 11 a.m. and is followed by lunch and a helicopter golf ball The G.F.W.C. drop. The shotgun Valrico Service start is at 12:45 League, Inc. p.m. Presents ‘Puttin’ On The registraGFWC Valrico Service League: The G.F.W.C. Valrico Service League’s tion fee is $150 per The Ritz Bunco’ ‘Putting on the Ritz Bunco’ will take place person and Come join on Thursday, March 5 at The Bridges includes golfing, the G.F.W.C. Valrico Retirement Center. lunch, dinner, a Service League’s ‘Putting on the Ritz shirt, a goody bag and contests along the Bunco’ for a night of fun on Thursday, golf course. March 5. Social time/dinner is from 5:30The nonprofit exists to lead those 6:15 p.m. with bunco starting at 6:15 they serve to know Christ, protect the p.m., to be held at The Bridges sanctity of human life and promote bibliRetirement Center, located at 11202 cal-based sexuality according to God’s Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. Tickets cost plan for marriage. For more information, $20 and include light dinner, drinks and visit https://empoweredtochoose.net. prizes. To register or become a sponsor for Proceeds help support local school the golf fundraiser, please contact Jessica children and families in need in our comRickenbach at jessica@choicesclinics.org munity. In the past year, the group or 654-0491. The River Hills Country Club has supported A Kid’s Place, is located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. Outreach Clinic, Campo YMCA, in Valrico. Cards for the Troops, Center Place, Apostles Village, Family Brandon Christian Women’s Promise, Seeds of Hope, Real Connection To Hold ‘Be My Hope Ministries, Canine Valentine’ Luncheon Companions and St. Francis The Brandon Christian Women’s Society and has provided books, educational activities, food, clothing and Connection will hold its monthly luncheon which invites you to ‘Be my Valentine’ on shoes for Title I elementary school chilTuesday, February 11 at Buckhorn dren. For tickets, contact Claudia Yake at Springs Country Club, located at 2721 S. 685-7998 or Sue Hadden at 334-7293. Miller Rd. in Valrico, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. with music, entertainment and an inspirational speaker. This is a nondenominaChoices Annual Golf Tournament tional luncheon with no membership With Helicopter Drop required, but a reservation is requested. Choices, formerly known as the The cost is $15. First-time guests pay LifeCare Network, will hold its annual golf tournament fundraiser on Friday, March 6 $10. Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for a reservation and information. at the newly renovated River Hills

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Page 18

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Citizen Effort Needed To Preserve Our North American Bird Population

By Sandy Townsend

If you’ve been seeresult, this hinders a ing fewer birds in the bird’s survival. Don’t past few decades, you’re use rat poison, either. If right. There’s a reason, an owl or hawk eats a and it’s not a good one. poisoned rat, that rapMore than one in tor can be poisoned. four North American 3) Keep cats birds—nearly three bilindoors. Outdoor cats lion—have vanished kill about 2.4 billion since 1970, according to birds a year in the U.S. a study published in the Outdoor life isn’t journal Science. healthy for cats, either. The study’s lead They can be hit by cars author, Ken Rosenberg, or killed by predators is a senior scientist at the and are exposed to disCornell Lab of eases. Ornithology and 4) Reduce plastics. American Bird Plastic is harming Conservancy. wildlife, including birds More than one in four North The reasons for the that eat plastic or get American birds—nearly three loss vary, including loss billion—have vanished since 1970. tangled in it. Pictured: an eastern meadowlark. of habitat, domestic cats, 5) Make your wincollisions, pesticide use and climate dows safer. Birds can die when they hit a change. Birds are indicators of environwindow. Install screens or break up mental health—and their loss signals a reflections on windows with film, paint or widespread ecological crisis. Acopian BirdSavers. The loss is caused by humans, so it’s 6) Drink shade-grown coffee. Most up to us to help. Here are things you can coffee farms grow their plants in the sun, do now, according to bird experts at the which destroys forest wildlife’s sources for Cornell Lab of Ornithology: food and shelter. 1) Reduce your lawn and incorporate 7) Become a citizen scientist. Citizen native plants into your landscaping. They science programs protect birds by providuse less water and attract bugs and ing data that helps conservation insects that birds need to live. Use researchers and land managers make Audubon’s database to find native plants appropriate, informed decisions. that work for your area: To learn more, visit www.audubon.org/native-plants. www.TampaAudubon.org. To find out how 2) Say no to pesticides. Pesticides kill to help birds, visit insects that birds eat and exposure to www.birds.cornell.edu/home/seven-simpesticides can delay migration. As a ple-actions-to-help-birds.

Suffering From Sciatica Sciatica is pain that originates in the low back or hip and can travel down one or both legs, buttock, knee and in some case, even the ankle. What causes sciatica symptoms? It is important to understand that sciatica is not a diagnosis, but rather a symptom. Common causes of sciatica are arthritis, pregnancy, childbirth, herniated or bulging disc, piriformis syndrome, degenerative disc disease, stenosis, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, trigger points or a tumor. It is important that you do not ignore sciatica symptoms. Prolonged compression on a nerve can cause permanent nerve damage that may not be restored. How can my sciatic be treated? It is important that you receive a proper examination and an accurate diagnosis from an experienced spine expert for sciatica recovery and discovery of any serious underlying conditions. The good news is that with a proper diagnosis and treatment, most of the sciatica patients at Motion ChiroTherapy get better quickly, within a few weeks or for severe case, within a few months, with conservative care, avoiding drugs, injections or surgery. Dr. Lutz utilizes a patient-centered approach which incorporates his extensive training in chiropractic, rehabilitation and sports performance to quickly decrease pain associated with sciatica, without the use of drugs or surgery.

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Volume 19, Issue 2

Visit The Florida State Fair For Food, Fun And New Deep Fried Dash 5K Run

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Since 1904, FFA students commit the Florida State hundreds of hours to Fair has been a their agriculture projstaple in Tampa ects.” Bay and is returnAmong the long ing to the Tampa list of things to see Fairgrounds from and do includes Thursday, February Cracker Country 6 to Monday, where visitors step February 17 for 12 back in time to 19th fun-filled days. The Florida State Fair is century Florida at coming to the fairgrounds Tampa’s only living Who doesn’t love for 12 days beginning some deep-fried history museum, Thursday, February 6 and Oreos, exciting open all 12 days of ending on Monday, February 17. rides to the the fair. There are Midway, carnival games and live enteralso a variety of fun competitions for the tainment? There is something for everybest quilt, pie or plant. Onlookers can one of all ages at this year’s fair. enjoy a good old-fashioned demolition Known for amazing food and thrilling derby as they cheer on their favorite rides, there are also a few new events destructive drivers as they shake, rattle this year. If you love to run, the first annu- and roll through a series of obstacles to al Deep Fried Dash is a race through the be the last car standing. And of course no fair on Saturday, February 15. For a visit to the fair is complete without a few chance to be the first ever Deep Fried rides on The Wipeout, Street Fighter and Dash 5K and Fun Run champion, register Midway Sky Eye ferris wheel. now for a fair-tastic deal. Opening day Thursday, February 6, Also new is the Showcase is also Hero’s Day, where first responCommunity Stage where you can see the ders, including law enforcement, EMT, best of the best local talent in this comcorrections officers and active or retired munity-driven show. military, along with guests, get free admisFrequent fair-goer and Ruskin resision to the fair. dent Amber Council is always excited The one-day admission price for about the Florida State fair. Her daughter, adults is $9 and for children ages 6-11 is Becky, is involved with Future Farmers of $5. Children under 5 are free. Other America (FFA) in school and is showing prices may vary and there is always speat the fair this year. cial pricing on armbands for the Midway “We always enjoy the rides and the rides. For a complete list of pricing and food,” said Council. “But, it’s also provides more information on the events, concerts, great agricultural opportunities. We will be live shows and other offerings, visit at the fair again this year because the www.floridastatefair.com.

February 2020

Page 19

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Artists Invited To Enter Artwork In Annual Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show

By Kathy L. Collins

A Call To Suncoast Artists has Credit Union been issued Plant City by the East branch. Hillsborough There are Art Guild prizes for first, (EHAG) for second and the 2020 third places in Artists, young and old, proFlorida all Adult and fessional and amateur, are Strawberry Youth Divisions. encouraged to enter original Festival Fine Artists who do not win one of the artwork into the 2020 Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Art Show above prizes are eligible for a Show. which runs Business Leaders Choice Award. from Thursday, February 27 through These awards are sponsored by local Sunday, March 8 at the Festival businesses and chosen by a represenGrounds in Plant City. The show will tative of the business. Artists are also be held in the Milton E. Hull Building. able to win the People’s Choice Adults are divided into Award. The winner receives $50. Professional Groups (entry fee is $15) New this year is the Special and Amateur Groups (entry fee is Awards. Area residents can become a $12). Adults can enter Oils, Acrylics, sponsor and select a winning artist Watercolors, Graphic/Mixed Media The who will receive a ribbon and $50. entry fee for Miniature Art (2D Media) Chairperson Karen Crumley said, and Sculpture (3D Art) is $12. “Anyone in the area can be a sponsor The Youth Divisions are by ages. the Special Awards.” Youth can enter Oils, Acrylics, Space is limited and entries are Watercolors, Graphic/Mixed Media and accepted on a first come, first serve Sculpture. The entry fee is $5. basis. Early entries are accepted until Adults can enter up to four entries, Friday, February 11. Artists can mail but no more than two in the same divi- their entry form and fee to East sion. Youth can enter up to two Hillsborough Art Guild, P.O. Box 3055, entries. Plant City, FL 33564. Artwork must be Entries are eligible for substantial brought to the Festival Grounds on monetary awards. This includes $100 Friday, February 21 from 12 noon to 6 for the Strawberry Theme Award, $300 p.m. for Best of Show and $500 for the Entry forms and rules can be Exclusive Purchase Award which is found at FLstrawberryfestival.com. If sponsored by Suncoast Credit Union. you have questions, please email In addition to the prize money, the win- Crumley at kscrumley@yahoo.com or ning artist’s piece is displayed at the call 924-3829.

Tampa Theatre Hosts Its 18th Annual WineFest, With Cabbyshack Theme

By Kathy L. Collins

The Tampa Theatre mium silent auction items is teeing up for its representing area retailbiggest fundraiser of the ers, restaurants, services year, hoping to hit a hole and attractions. in one with WineFest There are two levels 2020: Cabbyshack. This of tickets for the Wine fun event will take place Tasting. The Premium on Friday, February 7 Tasting starts at 7 p.m. and Saturday, February and features exclusive 8. The Tampa Theatre is wines for a limited audilocated at 711 N. ence. Tickets are $100 or Franklin St. in downtown $90 for Tampa Theatre Tampa. members. On Friday night, the The Grand Tasting Theatre’s historic stage ticket holders gain entry will be expanded to seat at 8 p.m. and tickets are more than 275 for the $65 or $55 for members. The Tampa Theatre’s 18th elegant Wine Pairing. WineFest 2020: Annual WineFest Fundraiser The multi-course menu, supports the historic landmark’s Cabbyshack is a 21 year programming and preservation. and older event. created and catered by The year’s theme, Mise en Place Chef Guest are encourCabbyshack, is sure to be as fun albeit different from last Marty Blitz, will feature aged to dress as their year’s James Bond theme. delectable small plates favorite character or expertly paired with exquisite wines. come in a Caddyshack-inspired cosTickets for the Wine Pairing are $275 for tume. individuals and $500 for a pair. Table Webber said, “The Theatre’s annual sponsorships for parties of eight or 10 WineFest fundraiser is always a ton of guests are available. Please contact the fun and the perfect way to support Tampa Theatre’s Director of Tampa’s only non-profit movie palace Development, Maggie Webber at magand drink wine at the same time.” gie@tampatheatre.org for more informa- Webber added, “This year’s theme, tion. Cabbyshack, is sure to bring out a ton of The Wine Pairing begins at 7 p.m. golf and Country Club attire, as well as On Saturday night, the Tampa gophers. Remember, costumes are Theatre will offer a two-tiered Wine always encouraged.” Tasting from 7 to 10 p.m. Attendees are For more information on WineFest invited to taste dozens of boutique wines 2020: Cabbyshack, or any of the other and sample favorite fare from Tampa’s great events and movies hosted by the top independent restaurants. You will Tampa Theatre, please visit www.tamalso have the opportunity to bid on prepatheatre.org or call 274-8981.

Estate Planning Wills & Trusts Powers of Attorney Guardianship Probate

Page 20

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 2

A Proposed Split From Mother Hillsborough: Where In The World Is Plant County?

By Charles Nelson

Unquestionably, their petition would never survive Henry Plant’s railroad put a plebiscite by rural, eastern Tampa on the map in Hillsborough residents. To count1884. That railroad also er this likely loss, proponents ran through the small insisted on a vote of ALL town of Cork in eastern Hillsborough County voters. In Hillsborough County. One this election scheme, the ‘proyear later, Cork was incordivisionists’ believed they could porated and appropriately entice Tampa area voters to the renamed Plant City. In ‘yes’ column with promises of 1911, a new Plant better local control. They also County, with Plant City as assumed that they could conits county seat, was province Latin voters to support the posed--again honoring new county effort in a bloc ‘yes’ the man whom one magvote, increasing Latin influence in azine named as ‘the King a much smaller Hillsborough “This 1953 map shows the largest land area “1911 Photo of Plant City Rail of Florida.’ “Portrait of Henry Plant, 1899” proposed as the new County. The 1911 County. Terminal.” Source: Florida Source: Florida Memory Project County proposal, would show a western Wait a minute! Plant Memory Project This voting plan, though boundary slight to the right. Note: US 41 County? That’s not on were delighted when the abandoned, didn’t even matter as Florida shown is today’s US 301.” Source: Tampa people, rankany list of the 67 Florida counties! True, Florida House of Tribune, May 1953 Legislators showed little appetite for creing 32nd in but in 1911, there was ample reason to Representatives defeatating new counties. Rising concerns the state in 1911. Pasco, Polk and believe that a few, well-heeled Plant City ed the bill authorizing the new county in among North Florida legislators, based Manatee Counties would serve as the boosters might be successful in creating May 1911. on the notion that new members, from northern, eastern and southern borders. a new Plant County out of the vast In March 1921, a larger group of newly created South Florida counties, The western boundary would be drawn in expanse of rural eastern Hillsborough Plant City-based businessmen proposed would seriously threaten northern a straight, north/south line just east of the County. a new bill to the Legislature. This time Legislators stranglehold on legislative towns of Mango and Limona (near In 1911, progressive-leaning memthey proposed the creation of an even power. As a result, the Legislature did not today’s Providence Road in Brandon). bers of Plant City’s Board of Trade were bigger Plant County with a population that consider a new Plant County. The plan’s major flaw (which likely encouraged by the successful five-year would exceed 20,000. Proponents There were weaker efforts to revive doomed the idea from the start) was that effort to create a separate Pinellas argued that Plant County would become the Plant County plan in 1925, 1958 and the new county would embolden Plant County. They were very sympathetic to the richest of Florida’s interior counties. 1971. They, too, failed to gain any tracCity’s political and economic dominance national ‘Good Government’ ideas of They believed that the time was right for tion, and the idea of a Plant County faded of the region. Opponents included rural smaller, more efficient governmental separation from ‘Mother Hillsborough.’ into history. farmers and ranchers who feared rising units. As a result, these men petitioned Again, there was stiff rural opposition. taxes necessary to offset the exorbitant the Legislature to create three counties ‘Anti-divisionist’ factions met in Brandon, Charles Nelson Bio costs of building government infrastrucout of the existing Hillsborough County. Valrico and in Plant City to sign petitions Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in ture in downtown Plant City. One ‘antiFrom this idea, a new Plant County History from George Mason University against the creation of the new county. To and taught as an adjunct instructor at divisionist’ meeting involved 200 would arise in the eastern third of emphasize their objection, they adopted a HCC (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated Woodmen of the World picnic-goers who Hillsborough County along with Pinellas new slogan: “It’s a Long Way to Plant with Tampa Bay History Center as a gathered at Sydney to unanimously pass in the west. volunteer docent, researcher and City” sung to the tune of the popular warcommunity lecturer, with an emphasis on a resolution opposing the creation of the Plant County would include 540 time song: “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary.” South Hillsborough County history. new county. Opponents, such as these, square miles and a population of 9,625 Plant City organizers quickly realized

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February 2020

Page 21

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Bay Area Renaissance Festival, A Tampa Tradition For Forty-One Years

By Libby Hopkins

As the new Renaissance year begins, so Festival is popular does an old Tampa because it contains tradition. The 41st such a variety that Bay Area can attract people Renaissance of all ages and Festival will begin backgrounds,” on Saturday, Heidger said. “It is February 15 and also an escape for run through many people; they Sunday, March 29. get to come out The festival began and get dressed up The 41st Bay Area Renaissance Festival in 1979 in Largo begins on Saturday, February 15 and runs on and be a different and has since weekends through Sunday, March 29 from person for a day.” 10 a.m.-6 p.m. moved to its locaThere is also a tion in Tampa on the grounds of the large variety of entertainment that hapMuseum of Science and Industry (MOSI). pens daily at the festival which drives its It is open for seven weekends during popularity as well. “There is a variety of February and March and sees more than entertainment at the festival, including 80,000 visitors each season. music, comedy, magicians, aerial acts “The Bay Area Renaissance Festival and, of course, jousting,” she said. “Each is a 16th century village that features 12 weekend brings in new acts as well stages of live entertainment, more than depending on the theme. During Highland 80 various artisans, live armored jousting Fling weekend, the festival will feature and food fit for a king,” said the festival’s Highland Heavy Games like Caber marketing manager, Kim Heidger. Tosses and Stone Throws. During Pirates This year, the festival will bring an all- and Pups weekend, you will find pet resnew experience called the Hawk Walk. cues, demonstrations and even dock div“During the Hawk Walk, patrons will get to ing dogs.” experience the Birds of Prey show in an Heidger hopes the festival will continintimate setting to learn and interact with ue to grow in 2020. “Our hope is to prothe birds,” Heidger said. “The festival will vide a unique and exciting experience to also feature a new escape room, all of our guests as we continue to grow,” Rainbow After Dark Party and Daily she said. Dungeons & Dragons Play.” Visit www.bayarearenfest.com for Heidger and her team believe the info. Festival is located at 11315 N. 46th Bay Area Renaissance Festival is so pop- St. in Tampa and is open every weekend ular with the Tampa community and from February 15 to March 29 from 10 beyond because the festival provides its a.m.-6 p.m. A list of activities and weekguests an escape from the norm. “The end themes is available on the website.

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Page 22

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Tampa Theatre Announces Lineup For LIMELIGHT 2020 Speaker Series

By Kathy L. Collins

Tampa Theatre is Ethical Leadership at New proud to welcome some York University’s Stern of the nation’s most School of Business, will inspiring thought leaders take the stage on to its historic stage this Tuesday, May 5. Professor spring. The speakers will Haldt is the author of the appear in a series of New York Times best-sellevening events called ing book The Righteous LIMELIGHT. Jill Witecki, Mind: Why Good People director of marketing and Are Divided by Politics community relations with and Religion. the Tampa Theatre, said, All events will begin at “Based on the success 7 p.m. of its inaugural season, LIMELIGHT series LIMELIGHT returns in subscriptions are available 2020 to bring speakers as a four-event ticket bunfrom a wide range of culdle. Tickets range from tural pursuits and a $165 to $225, plus applibroad palette of experiThe Tampa Theatre will host cable fees. A limited numthe LIMELIGHT 2020 Speaker ber of VIP packages are ences to Tampa Bay to Series this spring. You can lisshare their stories with also available for $600, ten to inspiring speakers our community.” plus fees. The VIP tickets including, Olympian Shaun White, astronaut Dr. Mae LIMELIGHT 2020 include premium show Jemison, actor Geena Davis will kick off with Shaun seating, photo ops with and best-selling author White, an Olympic gold the speakers and a preJonathan Haldt. medalist and entrepreneur, on Thursday, event cocktail reception with heavy hors March 5. d’oeuvres and an open bar each event Next, Dr. Mae Jemison, the first night. woman of color in space, will appear on As a bonus for early LIMELIGHT Tuesday, March 24. Dr. Jemison is the subscription buyers, you will also receive founder and president of the Jemison one complimentary general admission Group and BioSentinent Corporation ticket to WEDU’s An Evening with Rick and an inductee in the National Steves on Monday, February 10 at 6 Women’s Hall of Fame and International p.m. Availability is limited. Space Hall of Fame. Tickets to LIMELIGHT 2020 can be On Thursday, April 23, come listen obtained by visiting to Academy Award-winning actor Geena www.tampatheatre.org or by visiting the Davis. She is the founder of the Geena Tampa Theatre Box Office. The Tampa Davis Institute on Gender in Media. Theatre is located at 711 N. Franklin St. Finally, Jonathan Haldt, professor of in downtown Tampa.

Students Display Hundreds Of Pieces At FishHawk Creek Art Show By Kate Quesada

FishHawk Creek Conservatory guitarist Elementary students had Jonathan Smith played live a lot to be proud of last music, and food was providyear. Artists from first ed by Outback Steakhouse. through fifth grade partici“Comments from the pated in the school’s 13th parents were shockingly Annual Art Exhibit in late supportive and appreciative,” December, where more said Bunk. “One parent statthan 950 works of art ed that in all three schools were put on show for the that her children attended, community to enjoy. not one art teacher created The school’s art spesuch a vast variety of meancialist, Patricia Bunk, has ingful artwork for an exhibit.” been teaching at Bunk, a professional More than 950 pieces of FishHawk Creek for 13 artist herself who has disstudent artwork were displayed at the FishHawk years and started the played work all over the Creek Elementary’s 13th world, including Ireland, exhibit tradition when she Annual Art Exhibit in late arrived at the school. France, China and the United December. “In Hillsborough County we have Kingdom, encourages her students to become aware that it is critical for the arts express themselves and what they are to remain in the forefront,” said Bunk. “As learning about the world through their art. visual artists, we appreciate that students She teaches 959 students at FishHawk are synthesizing vast amounts of informa- Creek. tion with intensifying speed. Visual art “The students’ faces told the story of relaxes the mind, enabling students to how their creativity brought the communidraw of paint various subjects into art, ty together in a time of need,” said Bunk. including history, politics and math vocab- “The children were a light that inspired ulary which impact our world.” love, compassion and all that is good in According to Bunk, the students crethe world.” ate work that reflects their stances on Bunk wishes to thank Outback issues that concern the world and have a Steakhouse, her classroom volunteer global impact. Sonya Birkholz, Principal Steven Sims “We are shocking the psyche with and volunteers Tiffany Hensel and Kelly positive, loving images,” she said. “We, Bole. as artists, are drawing powerful images FishHawk Creek Elementary is locatthat communicate poverty, environmental ed at 16815 Dorman Rd. in Lithia and issues, animal rights, charity, feeding the can be reached at 651-2150. To learn homeless and many core values. It is all more about Bunk and her artwork, visit embedded in the visual images.” https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/patriciaDuring the event, Shenandoah bunk.

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February 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 23

Page 24

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

February 2020

Volume 19, Issue 2

Ph: 657-2418

In This Section CHALKLINES....................................PG 28 FLORIDA WILDLIFE..........................PG 31 STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL..................PG 33 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 41 SPORTS CONNECTION .............PGS 42‐43

New Women’s Health Center In Brandon

Media 5. According to Frost, “We are so looking forIn January, ward to the next year Women’s Care Florida event as we believe the opened the doors at its theme of the event, new Women’s Health ‘Proud to be American,’ Center Brandon, locatwill draw many more ed at 515 South Kings people to support chilAve. in Brandon. The Fred Astaire Dance Studios of The Way 2 Dance and Bob Savage dren in need.” They are facility houses four of Brandon will host a Valentine cocktail with Savage Consulting held their looking for more help to the practice’s obstetrics party on February 14 from 7-8 p.m. Toys for Tots Benefit at The Regent. Women’s Care Florida volunteer, to sponsor, to and gynecology offices recently opened a new Opening the producers of the Holiday Charity bring new unwrapped toys and to and offers state-of-the- women’s health center in Brandon. The group Celebration, ball to benefit Toys for Tots, held the attend the event. Save the Date: art screening mammog- plans to hold a ribbon cutting at the new facili- open to the eighth annual event at the premiere ty this month. December 10 from 6:30-10:30 p.m. at raphy, bone density public, at the venue, The Regent, in Riverview on The Regent. For more information, testing and onsite lab collections. In Brandon Health Center next month. December 12, 2019. One hundred call Savage at 240-7772 or Frost at addition to obstetrics and gynecology, Visit www.womenscarefl.com. and eighty people enjoyed the event 966-4788. For more information on the Women’s Health Center Brandon while the charity collected 23 bikes The Way 2 Dance, visit will offer patients access to specialists Academic Alliance In Dermatology and 22 boxes of toys. The theme was www.theway2dance.com. in breast surgery, gynecological oncol- Open House At Plant City Location ‘Top Hats & Tiaras.’ Savage and Frost ogy, as well as genetic and nutrition You are invited to are grateful to all Valentine Cocktail Dance Party counseling. It will also soon be home attend an open house for the people that supShare the romance, share the to fertility specialist, Dr. Shane Plosker Academic Alliance in ported the charity dance! You're invited to a Valentine of Shady Grove Fertility, in partnership Dermatology in its Plant and helped less forcocktail party this Valentine’s Day on with Women’s Care Florida City office, located at 1503 tunate children celeFebruary 14 from 7-8 p.m. at Fred Women’s Care Florida, founded in W. Reynolds St. It will take brate Christmas. Astaire Dance Studios of Brandon on 1998, is one of the largest independplace on Tuesday, February Guests enjoyed 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 114. This ent women’s health practices in 25 from 5-7 p.m. Enjoy hors d’ouvres delicious food catered by Inside the event is free and open to the commuFlorida, with nearly 400 providers at and drinks while meeting the providers Box Catering, professional shows by nity, and it is for singles and couples more than 100 offices in 13 counties and the staff. Dance Quest International and top alike. throughout the state. Serving more For information, call 514-4688 or USA competitors William Proper and Prepare to enjoy an evening of than 500,000 patients in Northeast, visit www.academicallderm.com/. Jennifer Elliott, DJ Chris Heath with dancing, including appetizers and a Central and Southeast Florida, Big Beats Entertainment, live music by special champagne toast. What could Women’s Care Florida’s 400 providers 8th Annual ‘Top Hats & Tiaras’ LeNoir Entertainment, raffles and aucbe more fun than kicking off your deliver more than 20,000 babies each Charity Ball Collects 22 boxes Of tion items by Socially Founded, photos evening with dance? Call the studio at year and provide a wide range of Toys For Tots Plus 23 Bikes by Florida Rustic Photo and videos by 438-5963 for more information or to health services to women of all ages. Panache Star Productions and Mach Bob Savage and Tatyana Frost, reserve your spot. The group will hold a Grand

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Page 26

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Boards For Bros Looks To The Community For Volunteers To Continue Mission

4-H Strawberry U-Pick Returns To Fancy Farms

In 1978, the Bro Bowl skateboards in the United skatepark opened in downStates, Cuba, Honduras town Tampa. For years, and Bangladesh,” Box skaters would notice that said. “We will continue to the kids who lived in the expand our reach across neighborhood lacked the all states and we hope to equipment they needed to work on a mobile Boards use at the skatepark. This for Bros team that will sometimes resulted in conbring the gift of skatefrontations as the neighboarding to communities borhood residents came to that cannot support a full resent the outsiders comchapter. We want skateing in to use their park. In boarding to spread into an effort to get the local neighborhoods that might Boards for Bros is a local residents skateboarding, not even have a local nonprofit that is some skaters would bring headquartered at Skatepark of skate shop.” along loaner boards for the Tampa and is looking for more The nonprofit purskateboarders from the area local kids to use. sues partnerships to become involved. In 2006, a group of between their local skateboarders decided that they needed Boards for Bros chapters and youth-cento get those kids their own skateboards to tered nonprofits, as well as targeting keep. Using Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT) underserved neighborhoods in the vicinias their home base, they started to collect ties of skateparks. They are looking for gently used skateboard parts and assem- more skateboarders from the area to bling complete skateboards to hand out become involved with Boards for Bros. to the Bro Bowl youth on Christmas. “This “Our volunteers are involved in all phases tradition continued through 2014, when of our projects, from donation, build and Boards for Bros became a 501(c)(3) non- distribution, and are able to directly expeprofit organization fully committed to rience the impact their hard work has on applying our model to neighborhoods their local community,” Box said. “This beyond the Bro Bowl by providing equipengagement often inspires further volunment, safe skate spots and youth mentor- teerism. The magic of the gift of skateing in communities across the United boarding is that it changes the lives of our States,” said Boards for Bros’ Executive volunteers and the youth who could never Director Michelle Box. experience skateboarding without our Boards for Bros’ headquarters is help.” located at SPoT and it has chapters in If you would like to learn more or volSouth Florida, North Carolina, New unteer visit www.boards4bros.org. Jersey, New York, Chicago and Orange Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT) is located at County, California. “We have distributed 4215 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa.

Rain or shine, Delivery is available Hillsborough County for commercial orders 4-H is set for its annuof more than 50 al Strawberry U-Pick, quarts. at Fancy Farms in Moreover, 4-H Plant City on youth will be on hand Saturday, February to pick for local area 22. This marks an earlier date for the 13th annual event with five days to go before the start of the Volunteer Susan Dumke, at 85th Florida last year's 4-H Strawberry U-Pick at Fancy food banks and to Strawberry Festival in Farms, shows off the quality of strawberPlant City, the ‘Winter help people who ries ripe for the picking at this year's February 22 event. Strawberry Capital of can’t pick for themthe World.’ selves due to age or disability. “This year, we’re the weekend before Yancy works out of the Hillsborough the festival and usually we’re the last County Extension Service, in partnership weekend, so there should be even better with the University of Florida, at 5339 CR strawberries to pick,” said 4-H Youth 579 in Seffner. According to Yancy, there Development Agent Brandi Yancy. are 19 4-H community clubs in the coun“This is the very peak of the strawty, including 11 in the Greater berry season, which means the berries Brandon/Plant City area, and a push to will be gorgeous, luscious and huge,” establish them as well in local schools. added Betty Jo Tompkins, past president “Everybody knows 4-H started for of the Hillsborough County 4-H agriculture, but it’s more than that,” Yancy Foundation and executive director of the said. “It’s designed for youth ages 5 to 18 Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation and it gives them an opportunity to learn District. “This event draws people from more about things they’re passionate throughout the county. It’s an opportunity about and to learn through their projects to get terrific strawberries at a reduced the skills they need to be successful in price and at the same time support 4-H life.” offerings, including leadership camp Clubs select their interests, which scholarships.” include such things as STEM education, The Fancy Farms U-Pick is set to run the arts, gardening, cooking, livestock from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., with $1 quart conand leadership. tainers available to purchase. Pre-picked For more information, call Yancy at strawberries cost $1.50 per quart. 744-5519, ext. 54116.

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February 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 27

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a teacher? What is a goal of yours as with the able to provide students One of my goals is to be to be sucskills they need not only o in their cessful in my class but als er . Anoth goal I have is future academic pursuits know the significance to always let my students , or why they are of what they are learning n way, so [they] can approaching it in a certai is so relevant and always understand why it future. how they can use it in the nts you are willing Any embarrassing mome to share? most involve There have been several, aring two differwardrobe choices, like we ent shoes.

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and why? d in the What is your favorite book se you get truly immerse cau be r, ge rin Or ie Jul by The Invisible Bridge author presents the lievable detail in which the e and shows story because of the unbe acr t takes you oss Europ tha ry sto le vab lie be un an characters. It is times. d love in the even darkest the power of the family an that you live by? Is there a quote or saying nts, family, friends. e to share with my stude stronger More of a quote that I lik e braver than you believe, u'r yo r be em rem ays alw l "Promise me you'l Milne er than you think." - A. A. than you seem and smart

Brandon High’s Class Of 1970 Still Celebrating With Its 50th Year Reunion Dance the night away to the tunes of 60s and 70s music while stepping back into time during Brandon High School’s upcoming 50th Class Reunion at Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Brandon on Friday, April 24 at 6 p.m. (a cash bar and light appetizers) and Saturday, April 25 at 6 p.m. (cash bar, buffet dinner, music and dancing). The class of 1970 will get an opportunity to reminisce, hear Sounds of Yesterday play, reconnect with friends, eat light appetizers and more. When preparing for this event, the question of who married their high school sweetheart was asked. Several people submitted their responses for a Valentine’s Day tribute. Elaine Nasworthy and her husband, Thumper Nasworthy, got married on July 31, 1971. They met in the seventh grade at Mann Junior High. Both went together off and on until the summer before their junior year at Brandon High School. Thumper ran for senior class president and won. “Thumper always treated me like his partner…Even at 17 years old, a certain amount of popularity went with being with the class president.” Elaine said. “His

By Tatiana Ortiz

leadership quality would be what I recognized then and now,” she added. A Graduating class of total of 1970. 507 students graduated in the class of 1970. Brandon High School’s 50th Class Reunion came into fruition through its committee, which kept in touch throughout the years. Judy Gay, who handles the website and public relations on the committee, stated the person who was the driving force behind all of their reunions. “Lisa Rodriguez is our chair and assisted with all the planning, along with the communications of it,” Gay said. For those interested in attending the class reunion, tickets cost $80 per person. This includes admission for both nights. Tickets can be purchased online or by mail until Friday, March 20. More information about it can be found at https://bhsreunion1970.myevent.com/pag e.php?groupingID=online_payment. “Overall, we are excited about our class sweethearts that are still together and celebrating their 50th year wedding anniversaries,” Gay said. For more information, visit https://bhsreunion1970.myevent.com. Embassy Suites by Hilton is located at 10220 Palm River Rd. in Tampa. For more information, contact Gail Askew Sweeting at gailsweeting1970@gmail.com.

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February 2020

Page 29

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Brandon Academy Celebrates 50 Years

By Linda Chion Kenney

Brandon Academy in 2018 graduated its first senior class, having launched its high school in 2015 with grade 9. Designated an International Baacalaureate World School in 2017, the academy offers the IB diploma program to juniors and seniors. Opening with grade 1 in 1970, the academy took In front of a cake celebrating Brandon Academy's 50th root on land purchased by anniversary are staff members, from left, Tonya Fulton, director of first impressions; Nicholas Rodriguez, head the Rotary Club of Brandon of school; and Brian Galzerano, middle school from the University of principal. Tampa. Ownership eventuThe Brandon Academy community ally transferred to Clif Curry and his is set to celebrate the private, indewife, Terry, who in 2005 sold the school pendent school’s ‘next best 50 years’ (then through grade 8) to Robert after gathering to mark the school’s Randolph and his wife, Tricia. half-century of achievement. Designated a National Blue At a ribbon-cutting with the Greater Ribbon School in 2010, the academy Brandon Chamber of Commerce, today enrolls about 260 students Jessica Rolewicz said she attended the through grade 12. school as a youngster. “Our goal is to give them their best “I used to play with the acorns in future yet,” Rodriguez said, noting such the playground,” she said. “I remember offerings as Makers Space, the big classrooms and the lovely proInnovations Lab and Design Makers grams they had back then. It’s amazing and Robotics. how far they’ve come and how much “Our goal is to bring in great kids they’ve grown with the community that and families,” he added. When it we love.” comes to financial aid, “We’ll bend over Head of School Nicholas backwards to try to get them in.” Rodriguez oversees 20 and seven fullSondra Cliggit retired in 2018 after and part-time educators, respectively, 35 years at Brandon Academy, where and five staff members. Over the past she last served as head of lower five years, classroom buildings have school. The academy is “magical,” she been retrofitted, the gymnasium has said. “People who come here say it’s been enhanced and an intermediate just different than any other place and classroom building has been construct- it truly is.” Brandon Academy is at 801 ed. Limona Rd. Visit: www.brandon-acadeWith seven of ten acres developed, my.com or call 689-1952.

Nonprofit Partners With Tide Cleaners To Offer Formal Dresses For Students

By Mia Cafaro

Gowns For Girls is a new organization getting its start in the Bloomingdale area, and it aims to provide prom and homecoming dresses to students who are not able to buy their own. Mulrennan teacher Stephanie Brown and her friend, Alicia Tew, first noticed this need in the community when attending a Bell of the Ball Project event. Bell of the Ball is another nonprofit with a similar goal, but it operates in Clearwater, which is sometimes inaccessible for girls in East Hillsborough. “We realized we could do something really good in our area,” said Brown. Last August, Brown and Tew began requesting donations from the community to build their inventory of formal dresses. A downsizing bridal shop in Brooksville was able to start their collection, and since then donations have poured in from locals. So many dresses have been accumulated that Bloomingdale Self Storage

donated a storage unit to Brown and Tew to use for the project. Tide Cleaners on Bloomingdale is currently a drop-off site for dresses, and it will also clean any donations that need it. All formal dresses are welcome donations, and if Gowns For Girls cannot use a dress, it will be passed along to ECHO, another nonprofit, and be used for fundraising. Additionally, Alteration Specialist Jeanne Fredrichs is generously mending damaged dresses so they can still be used for the project. Tide Cleaners’ and Fredrichs’ contributions have made dress a girl is thinking about selling or giving away will also qualify to be donated to Gowns For Girls. The distribution dates for prom dresses are Wednesday, February 1 and 22. Dresses will be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Centerpoint Church on the corner of Durant Rd. and Miller Rd. In order to receive a dress, girls will have to appear in person with an adult who can attest to their financial difficulties or be referred by school or agency officials. Volunteers will be needed on these dates to help keep things organized and running smoothly. Anyone who is interested in volunteering or has additional questions about Gowns For Girls can contact Brown and Tew at gownsforgirls.info@gmail.com.

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Nothing Bundt Cakes In Dessert Wars Event Coming To Armature Works For the first time, Dessert Wars is coming to Tampa. This sweet event will be held on Sunday, February 9 from 3 to 7 Dessert Wars is coming p.m. at to Tampa. Get your Armature tickets now for the Works, largest and greatest located at sweet tasting event in the area. 1910 N. Ola Ave. in Tampa. This is a ticketed event, which sells out fast. Dessert Wars is a celebration of the ‘foodie’ lifestyle, featuring dessert vendors vying for the title of Dessert Champion. The event features a wide array of desserts ranging from cupcakes, cookies, ice cream and doughnuts. Dessert Wars is dubbed the Largest Dessert Festival in America. This event is perfect for the whole family. There are several layers of tickets available. This includes Sprinkle on Top, which gets you 50 sample tickets, a ‘gobox’ and an exclusive Dessert Wars Tshirt with entry beginning at 3 p.m. These cost $75 plus fees. VIP tickets include 50 sample tickets, a ‘go-box’ and entry beginning at 3 p.m. These cost $60 plus fees. General admission tickets include 30 sample tickets, a ‘go-box’ and entry beginning at 4 p.m. These cost $35 plus

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

By Kathy L. Collins

fees. Sample tickets are exchanged for dessert samples. There is no extra cost for dessert. Voting for People's Choice Champion ends at 6 p.m. and the Trophy Ceremonies begin at 6:30 p.m. Dessert Wars debuted in 2016. Each year, they host over 50 vendors and have traditionally sold out to a crowd of 3,000. You will be astounded as you walk through rows and rows of vendors with multiple selections of ice cream, donuts, cupcakes and more. Brad Matthews, director of Dessert Wars, said, “There is no other place that you can try out over 50 different dessert spots under one roof. It gives you the opportunity to discover unique desserts you might have never had in your life.” For vendors, Matthews added, “It gives all of these wonderful dessert places a chance to showcase their product in front of their direct audience—dessert lovers.” Confirmed vendors include Astro Ice Cream, Craving Donuts, Jeremiah’s Ice, Mike’s Pies, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Sprinkles and The Hyppo. For more information on Dessert Wars and to get tickets, please visit www.dessert-wars.com.

Famous Cuban Donkey Unites Families Through Storytelling

By Michelle Colesanti

Perico was a donkey who lived in Santa Clara, Cuba, between 1914 and 1947. He walked freely through his hometown neighborhoods feeling safe. In the 1940s, he became famous at home and abroad when his antics were told and retold. He was featured in The New York Times, Life, and The Evening Post. And in Cuba, La Bohemia, El Diario de la Marina, El Mundo, El País, El Crisol, Prensa Libre, and Habana Post. In Cuba, Perico was not forgotten by one man, Arnaldo Artiles Quintana, who collected stories about Perico, wrote a book, and sculpted a statue of the folkloric icon in Santa Clara. For the first time in seven decades, the story of Perico is published and told outside of Cuba through a newly published book, Perico-The Fabulous Burro, which is a dual language book and now available through Amazon. Sixty years after leaving Cuba, local Valrico resident and author Susana Mueller (pen name JiménezMueller) got to visit her family in Santa Clara. During that visit, Quintana introduced her to Perico’s life story. The book instills cultural values and unites families across stretches

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of time and space – from the shores of Cuba to the beaches of exile countries. It was important to tell his story as the memory of Perico began to disappear. Stories similar to Perico’s vanished from the collective memories of Cubans in America and throughout the world as families dealt with the imminent needs of coping in exile. Mueller fell in love with Perico and felt a social responsibility to adopt the project and bring his life-story to readers outside of Cuba. “If we are lucky, once in a lifetime, we have the opportunity to add to the story of a People through storytelling,” Mueller said. Mueller’s trip to Cuba in May of 2019 provided her with deep cultural connections, not just with family but also with her hometown’s rich history. “I imagined Perico walking on Santa Clara’s cobblestones and wondered if he ever knocked on my parent’s door,” she said. “For me, bringing Perico’s story to America is a project of love.” You can find more information at https://soundcloud.com/user205688454/perico-the-fabulous-burro or https://www.facebook.com/susanasbooks or purchase on Amazon.

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February 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 31

Local Home Builder Sabal Homes Brings Affordability To Luxury

By Brad Stager

In business like enlarged since 1976, Sabal doorways or Homes of Florida suites outfitted has established for elderly family itself as an awardmembers. winning builder of “We are a luxury homes that semi-custom reflects the interests homebuilder,” and lifestyles of the added Brian, “but families who live in we’ve never built them. the same home Operating out twice.” of its Brandon Sabal Sabal Homes has office, the familyHomes been building luxury custom homes for more owned company started out than 43 years. has built more than building 600 homes that can be found in some of individual Hillsborough County’s most in-demand homes on communities, as well as on private lots. private lots But wherever they build, the company’s and venmission statement—which says in part, tured into communities like FishHawk “To build semi-custom homes for our cus- Ranch in 1999. tomers like those we would build for our Currently, Sabal Homes has homes own families,”—applies. available in the Preserve at FishHawk Three generations have spent 43 and Hidden Reserve developments, but years at Sabal Homes working closely according to Bill, the company is returning with buyers to provide the distinctive to the original ‘on your lot’ luxury home touches that make a house a personal business model with a focus on its homehome. That process begins with a design town of Brandon. It is a move expected to that’s hand-drawn by Bill Lee, president of improve construction efficiency and, ultiSabal Homes and son of the company’s mately, affordability for the highly cusfounders, Ann and Jim Lee, before final tomized product they build. construction plans are created by com“We are going to be moving into a puter software. According to Brian Lee, market that’s more mainstream for the who represents the third generation of the Brandon community and the buyers that family business, the hands-on aspect live here,” said Bill. helps make buyers’ wishes come true. People interested in homes priced at “We end up building their dream around $500,000 are buyers the Lees home,” he said. Personal design features hope to serve. For more information they have included range from indoor golf about Sabal Homes of Florida, you can simulators to disability accommodations visit sabalhomesfl.com or call 655-7475.

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One of the most talked about, feared and misunderstood animals, encountered in all 67 counties of Florida, is the coyote. Resembling a German shepherd, coyotes are a naturalized species of a wild dog, averaging around 30 pounds. Their scientific name, Canis latrans, literally translates to ‘barking dog.’ Comfortable in rural, urban and suburban areas, the curious coyote is extremely adaptable to most habitats. These migratory canines are well assimilated into our landscapes and ecosystems in the state as their natural range has extended across North America. Coyotes are omnivores, including fruits and vegetables in their meals, but they prefer a natural diet of small animals such as rodents, frogs, and rabbits, as well as the occasional deer. Although opportunistic feeders, it is fear more than fact that the urban coyote is interested in eating pets or attacking people. Rather, coyotes are timid creatures and have a natural flee response to people and threats. Coyotes can live in forests or farmland and rarely hunt in packs. They have a natural fear of humans and are often elusive. Their average lifespan is 14 years in the wild, they are monogamous by nature and breed in late winter and early spring. Their litters average four to

six pups, which are raised in well-hidden dens. Coyotes have strong familial ties and are attentive parents to their young. They can commonly be spotted at dawn or dusk hunting with another of their pack, but they are often solitary wanderers, rarely hunting in a group. Coyotes are mostly territorial and are an important part of the Florida ecosystem and landscape. Threats such as overdevelopment and habitat loss are increasing the reports and sightings of these animals as they are continuously displaced from their homes. They rarely pose a threat to humans and are an integral predator species in our ecosystem. Some tips to reduce fear and conflict with coyotes: Keep pets leashed and attended to. Cats should always remain indoors. Discontinue the use of retractable leashes. Secure livestock in predator-resistant enclosures. Secure food attractants such as garbage bins and outdoor pet food sources. Install motion detector sprinklers and lighting in especially rural areas with chicken coops. Remember that feeding coyotes is illegal and that you must never interact with wildlife. Observing a coyote is not a cause for concern. By understanding these creatures and their important role in our ecosystem, we can prevent conflicts and coexist successfully.

Page 32

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

G ET THE DIRT WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT

Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension New Year With New Opportunities Abounding

What do you want to accomplish garden-wise this year? Have you made a New Year’s resolution on your gardening goals? If not, we may be able to help you with some upcoming workshops. You may want to install microirrigation in a landscape bed, add a compost bin or get a rain barrel. We refer to these as the Triple Workshops on Saturday, February 1 and March 7. Maybe you want to have less lawn and more groundcovers, or learn how to improve your vegetable gardening skills. Our landscaping opportunities are pretty much limited to our imagination, and, in some cases, homeowner association rules and restrictions. At the UF/IFAS Extension in Hillsborough County office, we offer workshops on composting, vermicomposting (worms), microirrigation and rainwater harvesting. We provide many items for the minimal cost of $5 per workshop for Hillsborough County residents one time so they can conserve water and recycle kitchen and yard waste at home to use as soil amendments. There is an additional fee for worm composting to cover the cost of the worms and containers. Our office has many publications you can browse and keep that will help you identify home gardening projects you may want to undertake. We have vegetable gardening guides, schedules of upcoming

workshops, rain garden manuals, University of Florida calendars and brochures about different types of mulch and the benefits of each. There are several demonstration/teaching gardens at our office you can walk through and enjoy. These gardens showcase Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles, which include right plant/right place, water efficiently, fertilize appropriately, mulch, recycle, control yard pests responsibly, reduce stormwater runoff, attract wildlife and protect the waterfront. For groups of 10 or more, we can arrange docent tours of the gardens. Mark on your calendar that on Saturday, May 16, we will feature another Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ 101 with topics on groundcovers, ornamental grasses, pest and weed control, and there will be plant and plant productrelated vendors on-site. Gift bags will be provided, containing a gardening book valued at $25 and many other great items. There is a small fee to attend this event as lunch will be provided. The registration link will be posted on the website shortly. Check out the calendar of events at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcomi ng-events/. For horticultural assistance, contact the UF/IFAS Extension in Hillsborough County by calling 744-5519 or visit at 5339 CR 579 in Seffner.

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February 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 33

2020 Strawberry Festival Offers Perfect Vision Of Family Entertainment

By Michelle Colesanti

Don’t miss this year’s 2020 Strawberry Festival. With the promise of ‘Perfect Vision,’ everyone in attendance will see plenty of family-friendly entertainment, including fair food delights, concerts, rides, stage shows, animal shows, attractions and exhibits. The festival will take place for 11 days starting on Thursday, February 27 and will run through Sunday, March 8. This 85th season continues to show the fabric of American life woven into the festival through its social events, contests, youth programs, top-name entertainment and parades with glorious floats and marching bands. Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. daily. Midway times vary. General admission is $10 for ages 13 and up. Children 5 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Children 6 to 12 require a youth ticket purchase of $5. Discount tickets are available at Publix now through March 8. More than 2,500 local volunteers help annually, as 500,000 plus visitors attend the Strawberry Festival. Many won’t leave until they’ve enjoyed its signature strawberry shortcake. It’s a tradition for many, but if you want to enjoy other creative Plant City strawberry creations, try some Strawberry Fudge, Strawberry Fritters, Strawberry Kettle Korn, Strawberry Cobbler, Strawberry Sandwiches and, if you must watch your weight, the Bowl of Berries offers a sugarfree version. Lots of other strawberry items and other fair foods are also available for you to feast on and test your imagination. The Strawberry Youth Parade will

take place on Saturday, February 28 and the 2020 Grand Parade will be on Monday, March 1. Along with the floats and bands and lots of good old fashioned fun, you can meet the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen, Meghan White, along with First Maid Kennedy Sapp and court members Denim Hughes, Lacie Collins and Emma Miller. Meghan is the daughter of Stacy and Barbie White and is an 18-year-old senior at Durant High School. You will also see them at festival events throughout the grounds, including the Wish Farms Soundstage before each of the Headline Entertainment shows.

“Once again, we have an outstanding group of young ladies who will represent us well for the 85th year,” said President Paul Davis. There is no place better than the Strawberry Festival to catch some of your favorite concerts. Favorites such as Rascal Flatts, 98 Degrees, Patti LaBelle, Sara Evans, MercyMe, Lynyrd Skynyrd and more will take to the Wish Farms Soundstage. Reserved seats for Headline Entertainment shows are available at the Amscot Main Ticket Gate, located at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City. An additional ticket office located on the southwest cor-

ner of the TECO Expo Hall will be open during the festival to sell any remaining reserved seat tickets. With your paid admission, there is also a lot of free entertainment to enjoy. In the Publix Showcase Tent, Dennis Lee and Vocal Trash both take the stage about three times daily. Local talent Soul Circus Cowboys perform on Saturday, February 29 at 6 p.m. Or maybe you love to cook; if so, catch the Publix Aprons Cooking Show on Sunday, March 1 at 6 p.m. The Battle of the Bands Competition will have the best singers, musicians and bands from the area battle it out at this year’s festival. The final event will take place on the Wish Farms Soundstage on Saturday, March 7. Do food contests excite you? A few that you will find at the festival include the Deep Fried Strawberry Pie On a Stick Relay on Thursday, February 27 at 2 p.m. at the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent, the Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown at 2:30 p.m. daily at the Belmont Magic Show Stage and the Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest on Thursday, March 5 at 2 p.m. at the Stingray Entertainment Tent. Don’t forget to catch the Youth Livestock Shows, which will take place throughout the festival days. Other daily activities include the Belmont Magic Show, Robinson’s Racing Pigs, Dakin Dairy Farmers Milking Parlor, K9s in Flight, Kids Coloring Corner and more. For more information on all of the shows and events that will take place at the festival, visit https://flstrawberryfestival.com/.

Page 34

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Honor Their Sacrifice, Educate Their Legacy, Is The Motto Of Folds Of Honor

Women’s Unique Clothing and Accessories

By Gwen Rollings

women who have died or been disabled while on active duty. These scholarships have been awarded to family members in all 50 states and some U.S. territories. There are more than one million disabled and fallen United States service members affected by war, nearly two million dependents of those disabled and fallen and the cost is more than nine billion to provide educational scholarships to all these dependents, according to Sunset Grill in Ruskin held a charity event for Folds of Honor in November. There was a golf Folds of Honor. scramble, live music, raffles, silent auction and A local business joined the veteran services and support booths. cause to raise funds for these miliLieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, an tary dependents. Sunset Grill in Ruskin F-16 Fighter Pilot in the Air Force held a charity event for Folds of Honor in Reserves, was returning November. There was a home in 2007 from his secgolf scramble, live music, ond tour of duty in Iraq raffles, silent auction and when his mission in life veteran services and supchanged. After the flight port booths. Scott landed, Rooney watched as Campbell, general managa flag-covered casket was er of Sunset Grill, was removed from the plane and enthusiastic in his support directed toward a waiting of Folds of Honor. “There were many reafamily. Among the family was the young sons we chose to hold the charity event son of the fallen hero. Rooney knew he here. We wanted to show our support to had to do something to not only pay tribthe veterans and their families. We owe ute to American service members and our veterans respect, and there are a lot their families but to live as a reminder of veterans in the Ruskin area. We conamong civilians that it is our duty to honor sider ourselves to be ambassadors for the sacrifices of the ones who preserve Folds of Honor and anticipate a West our freedoms. That same year Rooney Florida chapter forming in the future.” founded the Folds of Honor Foundation. Funds raised were to be distributed as Folds of Honor is a 501(c)(3) nonlocal scholarships. profit organization that has provided nearFor more information on donating or ly 24,500 educational scholarships since scholarship application, visit www.fold2007 to families of U.S. servicemen and sofhonor.org.

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Page 35

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Twin Creeks Residents Welcome New Resident

Valrico Teen To Host Music Matters Concert At The Chapel At FishHawk

When Twin and one day he’ll say it Creeks Assisted Living back to me,” she said. and Memory Care So far, she’s had business office director no luck. Stacie Leonard Resident brought her pet, a16Marguerite Studstill year-old blue-fronted sings to him. “I try to Amazon parrot named get him to sing but he Cay to work, she didn’t just looks at me,” she know he’d become joked. such a hit with her bird Twin Creeks marand residents alike. keting director Krysta Twin Creeks residents enjoy visiting one of its newest residents, a 16-year- Lowe said visiting Cay “He likes a lot old blue-fronted parrot. more interaction than is just another choice he was getting at home and our residents residents have. “Some residents don’t were fascinated with him,” she said. want to participate in our scheduled group Cay started visiting the facility more activities but they will walk to the conseroften until Leonard had trouble getting vatory to visit Cay,” she said. “It gives him out of his cage at night to go home them another option.” with her. “He made it pretty clear to me It’s no surprise that Twin Creeks that he liked it here so Cay spends week- Assisted Living and Memory Care is a days at Twin Creeks and comes home pet-friendly community. with me only on the weekends,” she said. Space is currently available in the 96 It’s no wonder he’s a happy bird with bed (64 assisted living and 32 memory so many residents coming out to talk to care) facility located at 13470 Boyette Rd. him. in Riverview. Its healthcare team includes If he wants someone to visit him? He a 24-hour nurse, onsite physical, occupadoes what any sensible parrot would tional and speech therapy and physicians do…he barks like a dog until someone that come on-site to offer dentistry, podiacomes to talk to him. try, dermatology and chiropractic services. Resident Nila Jones visits him in his An ECC (Extended Congregate Care) cage in the sunny conservatory three license allows residents to age-in-place. times a day, patiently trying to teach the Just a few of the amenities residents bird to say her name. The 86-year-old enjoy are restaurant-style dining, a fullsaid she never had birds growing up and schedule of daily activities, craft room, fitbeing around one that can talk is pretty ness center, hair salon, library and more. neat. Sometimes he whistles at her or To learn more or to schedule an says a word. appointment, visit “I’m going to come out every day and www.twincreeksretire.com or call 336patiently repeat my name over and over 2128.

investment, and so the funds from this concert will be used for future recordings, music videos, etc.” Also joining Laneé is Idiomz Da Prophesayer, also known as Damon ‘Idiomz’ Curtis. Idiomz, a Christian hiphop artist, met Laneé while serving as a youth leader. He assisted her with recording and releasing Blurry and also Karinna Laneé is a young artist who wants to inspire connected her with his videoglisteners through her music. rapher to shoot the video. After cutting her teeth with her first Recently, Idiomz relocated to single, Blurry, in 2017, Karinna Laneé is Tennessee to become part of the staff for chomping at the bit to release another. The Extreme Tour, an international movePromoted by M&E Talent Consulting, ment that combines music and extreme Laneé is hosting a concert titled Music sports to further the gospel. Matters to showcase her new music, Idiomz said, “I am coming back to raise funds and promote the message support Karinna because I believe she that music matters. has a special gifting. If I can help her in “Music can be a really powerful any way, I will be there.” thing, and I think it’s really important that Other local artists will perform, and people can listen to a song and feel a litPure Power Productions will handle the tle bit better about themselves,” said sound and lights. The event will feature a Laneé. “I want to help people struggling 50/50 raffle and chances to win gift baswith mental illness and show them that kets donated from local businesses. it’s okay to struggle and that they’re not “I'm thankful for the amount of supalone." port I’ve received from my family, friends The concert will take place on and community. It means the world to Saturday, February 22 from 6-9 p.m. at me,” said Laneé. “I also thank God for The Chapel at FishHawk. Laneé will the opportunities that He has presented debut original music as well as perform me that…allowed me to share my talent.” some covers. Tickets will be available at The event’s venue is located at 6026 the door with a minimum donation of $5. Churchside Dr. in Lithia. For information, Children under 8 are free. contact metalentconsulting@gmail.com. Laneé continued, “There’s so much You can connect with Laneé on that goes into making a song. You have Instagram @karinnalanee. To learn more to write and compose the music, then about Idiomz, visit www.idp-music.com. record, then mix and so on. It’s a big

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Page 36

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com

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NEW CHEVY CAMARO LT1 TRIM A GREAT BARGAIN! This one is espea classic Camaro cially for the performappearance with a ance-oriented deeply recessed binnafolks. The rest should cle housing a rounded take a back seat. tachometer, speedomeSeriously. The all-new ter, fuel gauge and oil 2020 Chevrolet temp gauges. A sevenCamaro LT1 model is inch touch screen disequipped with a plays phone, audio and CAMARO LT1 mammoth and potent 6.2Wheelbase: 110.7 inches navigation capabilities. Also Length: 188.3 inches liter V-8 engine cranking out standard are eight-way driver Width: 74.7 inches 455 horsepower at 6,000 and six-way front passenger Height: 53.1 inches rpm and 455 pounds-feet of Suspension: MacPherson- power seats, auto a/c, a flattorque at 4,400 rpm. Making type strut front; independ- bottomed leather-wrapped ent five-link rear the rear-wheel drive coupe a steering wheel and short-throw Fuel capacity: 19 gallons thriller is an effortless and shifter, folding rear seat, headCity: 16 mpg freshly adopted 10-speed up display, keyless open/start Highway: 27 mpg auto gearbox (at $1,595). feature and ambient lighting. Weight: 3,685 pounds Website: The iconic muscle car is Among the several safety www.chevrolet.com truly a blast to drive, espefeatures are dual front and side cially when pushed hard at sharp and airbags, a side curtain airbag for both quick turns. Of course, it is a relief to have rows, stability and traction control, four10-spoke, 20-inch, forged aluminum wheel anti-lock brakes, limited slip differwheels; four-piston Brembo brakes; strut ential, rearview camera, rear obstacle tower brace; and an optional dual-mode detection system, three-point safety belts exhaust that has to be heard to be for all, tire-pressure monitoring system believed. Steering feedback is rapid and and daytime running lights. The powerful accurate, thanks to a variable-ratio elec13.6-inch front and 13.3-inch rear vented tric power system. Drive modes include discs will boost any driver’s confidence tour, sport and snow/ice. behind the wheel. Immediately grabbing attention up The only minus we see is a constrictfront is a vent-style matte black hood (like ed rear seat and poor visibility. Otherwise, one in the SS trim) that meets up to strikthe Camaro displays incredible nimbleing LED headlights and daytime running ness, tremendous handling and exceplights. The black bowtie emblem has tional braking. It leaves you asking for been shifted to the upper grille and a more as you put the pedal to the metal. body color bar separates the upper and Priced at just $34,000, the LT1 is great lower grilles. This makes the Camaro value for the cost. Heavy lead-footers LT1’s appearance not just bold, but also couldn’t ask for a better V-8 performance intimidating. However, the cabin displays experience!

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Page 37

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Date Night At The Florida Orchestra

By Kelly Smith

Looking for date night ideas for Valentine’s Day? The Florida Orchestra has a whole month’s worth, from James Bond to a classical saxophone quartet to a retired astronaut hosting a spacethemed concert. There’s so much to love at The Florida Orchestra in February. Music of Bond - James Bond (Saturday and Sunday, February 8 & 9, with a matinee): Be stirred, not shaken, as TFO’s own secret weapon, Michael Francis, conducts themes from more than 50 years of 007 movies in the Raymond James Pops series. American Masters Featuring Rascher Sax Quartet (Friday and Sunday, February 14 & 16): You never knew sax could sound like this; Philip Glass’ Concerto for Saxophone Quartet and Orchestra will surprise you. Also come for Gershwin’s An American in Paris and more. Stuart Malina conducts. Perfect for Valentine’s Day. Beethoven’s Violin Concerto (Friday to Sunday, February 21-23 with matinee): Brilliant Dutch violinist Simone Lamsma performs Beethoven’s only Violin Concerto. Also come for Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra and more. Christoph König conducts. Free tickets for kids and teens in the Tampa Bay Times Masterworks series. All About Tchaikovsky Coffee Concert (Wednesday and Thursday,

February 26 & 27): Come enjoy some of the most famous music in the world, all by Tchaikovsky, including Romeo and Juliet, 1812 Overture and Capriccio Italien. Stuart Malina conducts. Free coffee and doughnuts. Out of this World (Friday and Saturday, February 28 & 29): Conductor Sarah Hicks and retired astronaut Nicole Stott take you on a voyage into stellar music from Star Trek, Holst’s The Planets, Star Wars, E.T. and more. The performances will be enhanced with NASA images and a video. Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 (Friday to Sunday, March 6-8): Considered the ‘Mount Everest’ of piano concertos, Rachmaninoff’s most difficult work is a thriller to watch live—especially with electrifying pianist Joyce Yang. Also come for Beethoven’s Eighth and Sibelius’ Seventh, two symphonies that pack a lot into a little space. Michael Francis conducts. The Florida Orchestra Coffee Concert tickets are $24-$42, with concerts at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Tampa Bay Times Masterworks and Raymond James Pops series tickets are $18-$48. Get your tickets at FloridaOrchestra.org and by calling 727-892-3337 or 1-800-662-7286.

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Page 38

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

The Maria Miller Team Offer TopNotch Realty Services To Community

By Libby Hopkins

Maria Miller lies and veterand her team ans to find the of realtors are housing soluon a mission to tions that best bring old school suit their values to needs and to today’s real take full estate market, advantage of and they have available benbeen quite sucefits and supcessful in comport. “I'm an pleting their Army wife and mission. “My have two sons team of amazthat attend Maria Miller and her team of realtors are on a mis- high school ing real estate sion to bring old school values to today’s real estate agents work market, and they have been quite successful in com- and middle pleting their mission. together to give school,” Miller each buyer and seller the ultimate persaid. sonalized buying or selling experience,” Miller and her team love being a Miller said. “One of us is almost always part of the Brandon community and available for quick response. Two of my helping clients buy and sell homes in team agents are bilingual and speak the community. “I really like the Spanish to make us more available to Brandon community for its diversity,” the whole community. One of my senior Miller said. “Brandon and the suragents has been in real estate for over rounding area has homes reasonably 15 years and had her broker’s license in priced for all budgets and needs. Our Puerto Rico as well. We love assisting ultimate goal is a happy customer. The with new construction, which many buysmile on the face of a buyer or seller ers don't realize we can help in this area. at the closing table makes my day. We We also help first-time home buyers, VA are helping someone through possibly buyers, buying, selling and also leasing.” the largest purchase or sale of their Four of Miller’s agents and Miller life; our job is to make sure we handle herself are military relocation profesthe stressful part for them and make sionals (MRP). This means that they the home buying or selling process a hold a certification for real estate progreat experience for them.” fessionals who want to work with curFor more information, visit rent and former military service memwww.mariamillerteam.com or call 319bers. The MRP certification program 5807. The Maria Miller Team office is educates realtors about working with located at 2234 Lithia Center Ln. in U.S. service members and their famiValrico.

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Page 39

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

t, n e m a n r u o Golf T ollege & Caregiver Cre… Mo anti, elle Coles h ic M y b er.com Compiled reyobserv p s o @ e ll e mich

Bloomingdale Baseball Golf Tournament Registration For Friday, February 7 Tournament

The 2020 Bloomingdale Bulls Baseball team is holding it’s first Golf Tournament Fundraiser on Friday, February 7 at the Bloomingdale Golfers Club located at 4113 Great Golfers Pl. in Valrico. Registration, lunch and range balls begin at 11:30 a.m. and shotgun begins at 1 p.m. Registration is $100 per golfer and includes lunch, round of golf and dinner. Registration for a foursome is $400 and includes lunch, round of golf and dinner for four golfers. Please consider being a Bloomingdale Baseball sponsor! GRAND SLAM SPONSOR – $2,500 Receives: Foursome in the 2020 Golf Tournament plus Home Run Sponsor package. HOME RUN SPONSOR - $1,000 Receives: Full Page Ad in 2020 Baseball Program, Hole Sponsor in the 2020 Golf Tournament, Recognition at all Home Baseball Games, Membership in the Bloomingdale Athletic Booster Club and 2 passes for regular season games. TRIPLE SPONSOR- $750 Receives: Half-Page Ad in 2020 Baseball Program, Hole Sponsor in the 2020 Golf Tournament and Recognition at all Home Baseball Games. For registration or sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.bshsboosters.com For more information about registration or sponsorships contact Shelly Wilson at 335-8469 or email her at cmshellywilson@gmail.com.

Cleaning Services

Upcoming Events At Congregation Beth Shalom

Put on your best 20s apparel and do the Charleston at Congregation Beth Shalom’s annual fundraiser. David Morris will showcase his sounds, including his latest single, Welcome to My World. Funds benefit the synagogue as well as the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, which funds college for families of the fallen. Tickets cost $45 for adults, $10 under age 13 and are 20 percent off for members, active military or veterans. Silent and live auctions will take place. It will be at the Elks Lodge of Brandon on Saturday, February 22 from 5:30-10 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling the office or on the website. Sabbath Services are on Fridays at 7:30 p.m. Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. All welcome. On February 7, join in for Blue Jeans Shabbat with the choir. Congregation Beth Shalom is located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Call 6816547 for more information or visit https://bethshalom-brandon.org.

14th Annual Fishhawk Ranch Chili Cook-Off

Calling all Chefs to the 14th annual FishHawk Ranch Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, February 22 from 12 Noon-2 p.m. at Park Square, located on 164144 Churchview Dr. in Lithia. You can sign up as a team, business or individual for free. Space is limited. To sign up, download the application at www.fishhawkconnect.com, Fishhawk Ranch Mobile App or pick one up at the Osprey Club located at 5721 Osprey Ridge Dr. in Lithia. Applications can be emailed to sparvin@fhrhoa.com. There are big cash prizes for first, second and third place in two categories: People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice. The tasting fee is $5 and no pre-registration is required. For more information, contact the Resident Services Office at 657-6629.

The Bridges Retirement Community Hosts Caregiver College

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‘Caregiver College,’ a series of educational classes to help you build your caregiver tool kit. When it comes to dementia caregiving, knowledge is power. The classes include: Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s on Tuesday, March 17; Healthy Living for the Brain & Body on Tuesday, March 24; Effective Communication Strategies on Tuesday, March 31; and Legal & Financial Planning on Tuesday, April 7. All classes are held from 10-11:30 a.m. Come to one class or come to four classes. There is no fee to attend. These classes will be held at The Bridges, 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. Seating is limited. Please reserve a seat by calling 800-272-3900.

SouthShore Regional Library And SBGS Expand Genealogy Volunteers

The South Bay Genealogical Society expanded the volunteer services that are provided at the SouthShore Regional Library on January 9. Currently, member volunteers are available to assist anyone who needs help with their genealogy research in the Jack Fischer Genealogy Center on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-12 Noon. Volunteers will be added on Thursday evenings from 6-8 p.m. to help those who cannot make it to the earlier times.

Recruitment Event For Childcare Staffing

ChildCare Careers (CCC), the largest staffing firm dedicated to the childcare field, will hold a recruitment event on Wednesday, February 19 from 12 Noon-3 p.m. at the Riverview Goodwill Job Connection, located at 10739 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. CCC provides fully qualified and prescreened teachers, assistant teachers and site directors to childcare centers, preschools and before and after-school programs. Since 1996, CCC has served literally thousands of child care centers, ranging from small single location centers to many of the largest national organizations. CCC works with all types of childcare organizations, including public and private, nonprofit and for-profit, Head Start and Early Head Start programs, school districts and community organizations. For more information, contact Rebecca at 727-578-0999 or tampa.recr3@childcarecareers.net.

Community Action Board Partners With County To Provide Scholarships

There are college scholarships available to qualified Hillsborough County residents through the Community Action Board Scholarship program this year that can make a difference for a student get-

ting an important education. Hillsborough County Social Services and the Community Action Board have partnered again this year to offer scholarships for up to $5,000 to eligible students who wish to continue their education by attending an accredited institution of higher learning. This includes first-time students and students returning to school. Scholarship applications for the 2019-2020 school year will be accepted through Friday, March 13. Recipients will be notified in writing prior to the start of the fall semester. Applicants need to meet the following eligibility requirements to be awarded a scholarship: must be between the ages of 16 and 24 and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent (16-year-olds may apply if they are graduating seniors), reside in Hillsborough County, have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and household income must fall within 125 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/re sidents/social-services/financial-assistance/determine-eligibility). The following criteria will also be used to evaluate applicants: community service and school involvement, application and letters of recommendation, academic record (transcript), essay response and panel interview participation. Application materials can be downloaded on the Scholarship Application page on the county website. Detailed instructions on how to apply can also be found on the page. Students may submit completed applications online, via mail or deliver applications in person to any Hillsborough County Community Resource Center. For questions, contact Juan Fradera at 272-5074.

WMU-Cooley Law School Honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. By Volunteering At Everyday Blessings

Students from WMU-Cooley Law School honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 20 by volunteering their time and talents with foster children at Everyday Blessings in Lithia. This will be the sixth year WMU-Cooley volunteers have commemorated Dr. King’s birthday by providing activities for foster children during the law school’s Equal Access to Justice Day. Events were also planned, including playing games with the children and various activities relating to who Dr. King was and the importance of commemorating his civil rights efforts. Additionally, WMUCooley students will give a presentation on Dr. King. Everyday Blessings will provide each child with a packet of educational activities that include goal charts and coloring sheets.

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Page 40

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 2

The Tampa Youth Travel League Offers Competitive Travel Bowling

Longtime Area Educator Dr. Earl Lennard Leaves Lasting Community Legacy

The Tampa Youth Travel League (TYTL), established in the early 80s, is a competitive travel league for youth bowlers. Photos courtesy of the TYTL These This season’s champions are from Oakfield Lanes in Brandon. bowlers are required to try out at one of the eight bowling centers (houses) located around the greater Tampa area. The 12-team league was designed to encourage youth bowlers to have healthy competition against other bowlers in the Tampa Bay area. The TYTL currently has about 70 youth members that travel from as The Tampa Youth Travel League has a total of 12 teams. far as Sarasota and Zephyrhills to compete with their teams each week. The ages range from preteen up to 18, and coaches assemble teams based on the abilities of the bowlers. TYTL advisors Kelly Nelson, Rich Fiore and Lloyd O’Hara feel that they are in an exciting position to challenge their youth by teaching them both the The league has about 70 players. physical and mental aspects of the game, allowing them to think for arship accounts when they win. At the end of the season anywhere from themselves, as well as helping pre$1,000-$4,000 is given out in scholarpare them for future endeavors. ship money. Morrow said that his The league meets 26 Saturdays daughter, who is now in college, throughout the school year. Each earned about $8,000 for college from team earns points for the games bowling. bowled throughout the season, and Morrow enjoys helping the youth the team with the highest total pins and watching them grow. Some of his receives the championship traveling plaque to display at their bowling cen- bowlers will not be eligible for the league next season because they will ter for the year. This year’s current champions are from Oakfield Lanes in reach the age limit of 18. “I’ve seen them from 12 to 18 years old, just Brandon. watching them grow and progress as Todd Morrow coaches the teams bowlers and as youth into adulthood, that are affiliated with Brandon it just makes your day,” said Morrow. Crossroads Bowl in Tampa. His The league is currently looking for daughter always wanted to play in the more players because of the age league, and when she joined the restriction after this season. If you are league six years ago, Morrow joined a youth bowler interested in joining as a coach. According to Morrow, the the league, contact your local bowling bowlers receive money in their scholalley.

His daughter, Missy, in 2009 became the charter principal of the elementary school named for Richard “Dick” Stowers, who died in January. “Earl and Dick are probably the two best historians of this area and I loved hearing their stories,” attorney B. Lee Elam said. “Earl was Earl Lennard with his daughter, a totally selfMissy (l.), charter principal of less person. Stowers Elementary, Annabel, Any talent he his wife of 55 years and son Jeremy, a technology specialist had, any inforat Bloomingdale High. mation he had, From farm to schoolhouse, any way he county fair to boardroom, Earl could help, he J. Lennard is remembered as would, and he a “humble, homegrown icon” wanted to take whose teachings, kindness no credit for it. and leadership leave an indeliStowers, of ble mark. course, was The namesake of Lennard cut from the High School in Ruskin died “Dr. Lennard was a respected leader same cloth.” Dec. 23, at age 77, after a who cared about his community,” said Senator Helen Mulrennan Young, with Earl prolonged illness that led to Lennard at the 2010 Brandon High Tom Lee, a his hospitalization since School Grand Reunion. Helen said Brandon High Thanksgiving 2018. Lennard “was a great friend to the graduate, Mulrennan family and worked on the Lennard entered the agreed. “Over farm with my brother Bud.” Hillsborough County public the past 20 school system as a first-gradyears we’ve lost many of er at Palm River Elementary Brandon’s greatest generaand left as its superintendent tion,” he said. “Together they of schools upon retirement in built this town and it was 2005. Four years later, Gov. honor to have lived and Charlie Christ appointed him served in their time.” Hillsborough County A lifelong history buff, Supervisor of Elections, to Lennard taught at Ruskin replace Phyllis Busansky, who Elementary and at East Bay died that year. Lennard served and Tampa Bay Technical out the remainder of her term Earl Lennard, former high schools. He received and then ran unopposed for Hillsborough County numerous awards for his own four-year term. superintendent of decades of service and lent schools and supervisor Under his watch as support and leadership to, of elections, passed superintendent, Hillsborough away in the evening of among other groups, the grew from the 11th-largest to December 23, 2019 fol- Greater Brandon and Greater lowing a prolonged illthe eighth-largest school disness. Dr. Lennard was Riverview chambers of comtrict in the nation, necessitatmerce and the Boys & Girls 77 years old. ing the addition and renovaClub in Brandon and Riverview. tion of more than 90 schools. He con“Dr. Lennard was a part of us in the tended with the fears and budget shortfield of education working with youth and falls in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist community, who gave us the idea we attacks and in his wake left a contingency could do this work and make a differfund of more than $300 million. Courtence,” said Jefferson High graduate and ordered desegregation ended during former NBA player Ricky Gallon, now Lennard’s tenure and he led the developmetro community liaison for Boys & Girls ment of the school choice and magnet Clubs of Tampa Bay. “He could see school program. something in you that you couldn’t see “He’s going to be remembered by the yourself, and help you quantify it and put education community, but his roots were it to good use.” in agriculture,” said Tom Umiker, manager East Bay graduate Tanya Doran, the of the Hillsborough County Fair, which Riverview chamber’s executive director, Lennard served as board member and agreed. “He saw something in me I did past president. “Everybody knew him and not see in myself,” she said. “Earl is a I never heard a negative word about him. man who inspired generations.” He’s a humble, homegrown icon.” A Celebration of Life was held One of nine siblings, Lennard worked January 11, at Dr. Earl J. Lennard High on his family’s farm and tended to the School in Ruskin. In lieu of flowers, donadetails of its roadside vegetable stand. A tions can be made to Riverview United long-time member of Riverview United Methodist Church, general fund, for a Methodist Church, he taught Gleaners scholarship program in Lennard’s name, Sunday School there up until his illness. soon to be announced.

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February 2020

Page 41

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Tampa Theatre Hosts 21st Annual Hollywood Awards Night 2020

Plant City Entertainment To Present SouthernInspired Comedy, Farce Of Nature

The Tampa cinematic exciteTheatre will host ment that has its 21st annual kept this historic Hollywood movie palace Awards Night alive and thrivRed Carpet ing for 93 Reception on years.” Sunday, February Witecki 9. The Tampa added, “Even if Theatre is located you did not see at 711 N. Franklin all of the nomiSt. in downtown nees, the Red Get dressed in your Hollywood best and take a Carpet Tampa. The walk on the Red Carpet at the Tampa Theatre’s event begins at Reception out21st annual Hollywood Awards Night Red 6:30 p.m. under side and all of Carpet Reception on Sunday, February 9 beginning at 6:30 p.m. under the historic movie the games, the historic thepalace’s marquee. atre’s marquee. treats and surGuests will have the opportunity to prises inside make Hollywood Awards take a limo ride around the block, Nights such an incredible party. It is a courtesy of Skyline Limousine. They great excuse to get dressed up and then get to walk the red carpet past come downtown. Most importantly, it is adoring fans and paparazzi, rub shoul- a really fun way to support the nonders with costumed characters repreprofit Tampa Theatre’s preservation senting Hollywood’s biggest bigwigs and programming throughout the and chat with ‘Roan Jivers’ about what year.” they are wearing. You have three viewing options for Inside the Tampa Theatre, you will the night. The Balcony Ticket is $25. find games, prizes, free popcorn and You can watch the awards show from soda as well as hair and makeup the balcony and get popcorn, soda touch-ups by professional stylists. and water. Attendees can watch the Oscars® The Mezzanine Ticket is $55 and Red Carpet Live pre-show. Live cover- gets you a reserved seat, two drink age of the Academy Awards will be tickets for beer and wine and VIP drink shown on the big screen at 8 p.m. service. Jill Witecki, director of marketing The Party Deck Ticket is $150 and and community relations for the includes VIP Party Deck seating, a Tampa Theatre, said, “Tampa Theatre buffet dinner, open beer and wine and is proud to have shown several of the signature cocktails until 11 p.m. Oscar-nominated films over the past To obtain tickets to the Tampa year, and Hollywood Awards Night is Theatre’s 21st annual Hollywood the perfect way for us to celebrate Awards Night Red Carpet Reception, these amazing movies and all of the please visit www.tampatheatre.org.

they all hide, lie, disguise themselves, cross-dress and slam doors while trying to figure out the source of an Plant City Entertainment will present the Southern-inspired comedy increasingly Farce of Nature this February in downtown Plant City. awful stench. By the time Plant City Entertainment (PCE) will present Farce Of Nature, a James they figure it out, it is too late. The lodge is surrounded by vicious critters Hope Wooten comedy, during the and hungry varmints that have folmonth of February. PCE is located at lowed the odor down from the hills. In 101 N. Thomas St. in historic downthe delightfully chaotic climax of this town Plant City. one outrageous day, love blossoms, Farce of Nature will be performed truths are revealed and the lives of on Friday, February 14 and 21 and all—family, guests and gangsters Saturday, February 15 and 22 at 8 alike—change in incredible and surp.m. There will be two matinees on Sunday, February 16 and 23 at 2 p.m. prising ways. Kelley Gustafson is the director. Tickets to Farce of Nature are $20 Gustafson has been with PCE since for adults and $18 for seniors with an she was a teen. She started out as an ID and for students (18 years old and actor and is now in the role of director. younger). Tickets for groups of 10 or She previously directed Red Velvet more are just $15. Group tickets must Cake War and The Rainmaker. be purchased in advance. PCE memGustafson said, “The characters bers pay only $15. in Farce of Nature are fun and over Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.pceshows.com. There the top, but still very relatable to people you may know in a small town.” is a $1 service fee per ticket. The box PCE has produced several James office opens 90 minutes prior to all Hope Wooten plays in the past. shows. Gustafson added, “A few years ago, Farce of Nature is a Southernthe playwrights came to the theatre fried farce that highlights one day in while we were doing their play, Rex’s the life of the Wilburn family of Exes. We have fallen in love with their Mayhew, Arkansas. The struggling family fishing lodge, the Reel ‘Em Inn, comedies and their reliable characters. Their comedies have become fan becomes the backdrop for a motley favorites.” collection of flawed characters stirring For more information, please visit up a hilarious comedic stew. In the www.pceshows.com. deliciously funny romp that ensues,

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Page 42

Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Photos courtesy of FishHawk Wolfpack

FishHawk Wolfpack Mitey Mites Cheer Brings Home Two Trophies, Including National Title The FishHawk Wolfpack cheer organization had great success at the Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championship this past December. A total of three of their competitive teams advanced to the nationals in these divisions: Mitey Mite (ages 7-9), Pee Wee (ages 9-12) and Jr. Varsity (JV) (ages 10-13). JV placed fifth nationally, and the Mitey Mites won the national title. This was the first year that Pop Warner has allowed the Mitey Mite division to compete at Nationals. Every year, the Pop The FishHawk Wolfpack Mitey Mites (ages 7-9) won the Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Warner National Cheer & Championship. Dance Championship is held at the ESPN Wide World of dents and how far they have come Sports at Disney, and this year the since joining the program. “Since Pop event was live streamed on YouTube. Warner does not allow tryouts for any FishHawk Wolfpack Cheer teams, it always makes me so proud Coordinator Merideth Van Auken to see how girls of different expericouldn’t be more proud of her stuence, skill level and ages can come

The nationals were held at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports in December 2019.

together to work so hard to make strong teams that perform so well together,” she said. “This was our ninth consecutive year of having teams advance on to Pop Warner Nationals and bring national trophies

home. This was also our third national championship.” The Pop Warner National Cheer & Dance Championship is the highest competition of any Pop Warner team’s season. The Wolfpack first had to win their local competition to earn a spot in the region championship. From there, they competed at the southeast regional championship in order to earn a spot in the national championship. If teams decide to compete in other competitions after the nationals that is an option, but it is not part of the official Pop Warner competition season. Since the inception of the Wolfpack in 2007, the organization has been completely run by volunteers. “I couldn’t be more proud and appreciative of our coaches,” said Van Auken. “They work so hard coming up with routines that suit their teams’ skill levels year after year, and they are such an important part of our program. Wolfpack couldn’t have the success it does without our wonderful volunteer coaches.”

February 2020

Page 43

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Photos courtesy of Buddy Baseball

Hillsborough County Funds Wheelchair-Accessible Baseball Fields In Temple Terrace and all donations are On January 6, tax-deductible. the first-ever wheelDonations can be made chair-accessible online at buddybasebaseball fields in ball.org or by contacting Hillsborough County Oberbroeckling were unveiled in a at russ@buddybaseribbon-cutting cereball.org. mony in conjunction ”We're overwith the City of whelmed by the support Temple Terrace and provided by our elected Buddy Baseball. officials and the City of Buddy Baseball is a Temple Terrace to this non-competitive The league has grown to 20 teams with more than 100 different schools participating. much-needed project to recreational league create an even better inTemple Terrace. more than 100 different for boys and girls Each player is paired with a buddy to A player crosses the plate and setting where children Since the schools participating. ages 8 to 22 with assist on the field and in the dugout. scores a run. with unique needs are underleague's inception in 2009, the players Buddy Baseball is special needs. Each player is paired stood and embraced,” said seeking additional donations and sponwith a buddy to assist on the field and in had been playing on traditional clay and Oberbroeckling. sod softball fields, which can be chalsorships to support the growing league, the dugout. lenging for children with mobility issues. Players and buddies joined the celCurrently there are no other synthetic ebration to play the first game on the turf baseball fields in Hillsborough new fields. "The need for these fields is County for children with special needs. evident by the growth of our league, According to the website, Buddy which has grown to 20 teams for each Baseball began through a dedicated of our spring and fall seasons,” said group of volunteers, attracting 36 playRuss Oberbroeckling, Buddy Baseball ers and 38 buddies to form six teams in founder and executive director. 2009. Since then, Buddy Baseball has The State of Florida and accomplished more than they thought Hillsborough County funded the project, possible on and off the field. At the start located at the Temple Terrace Parks & of the 21st season in September 2019, Recreation - Family Recreation the league has grown to 20 teams with Complex at 6700 Whiteway Dr.

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Volume 19, Issue 2

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

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! G EWIN N T S LI

1.13 TRANQUIL ACRES IN THE HEART OF LITHIA! This 2 bedroom 1 bath home offers NEW ROOF 2018 so no need to worry about that big ticket item! This home offers a bright & open floor plan with spacious kitchen with updated appliances! Two sheds both with electricity, perfect for a handyman! Rare find! $175,000

WONDERFUL FAMILY HOME IN THE HEART OF BLOOMINGDALE! Immediately available 4/2.5/2 + pool home with oversized screened lanai! Volume ceilings, laminate flooring, fireplace surrounded by brick accents & built-ins & oversized tile floors! Kitchen features granite counters & raised panel cabinets! Close to community park! $300,000

office: (813) 655-5333 | direct: (813) 924-8677 | Brenda@BrendaWade.com