Osprey Observer Bloomingdale/FishHawk December 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

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December 2020 Volume 19, Issue 12 Ph: 657-2418

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FishHawk Falcons Wiggle Path Gives Students A Much Needed Fitness Break

By Kye Saunders

Thanks was one last to a generstep: putting it ous sponsor all together. and a bright That’s idea, stuwhen dents at FishHawk FishHawk Creek Creek Elementary Elementary parent Chris have an Garett opportunity stepped up to to enjoy a the plate. different type of outdoor As the play this month. The school owner of Elite FishHawk recently added a brandPainting and a father of new play path with help three former FishHawk from Elite FishHawk Creek Falcons, Garett and Painting. his team where able to After receiving the complete the entire project grant money needed to in one day, entirely pro take the idea of having a bono. play path for the students “We are so grateful for to use to reality, FishHawk what Elite FishHawk Creek’s Carmela Maria Painting did for us. It made Students at FishHawk Pizzichetti got right to work. Creek Elementary can all the difference,” said FishHawk Creek now enjoy a new play Pizzichetti.“This play path is path.

Elementary’s students can special because it is not enjoy different activities such as a only beneficial for every one of our stuleapfrog path and color coded patterns. dents but even more so for our stuEven a bear is incorporated in the fun dents who need that extra wiggle time and playful design. to make their day better and brighter.”

“A lot of students need five or 10 This play path provides students mins out the classrooms,” said the chance to get out of the classroom Pizzichetti. “We find that a little physiand get their energy out. cal activity is really helpful, especially The interesting and challenging for those children [needing] the extra activities included in the play path are time [for] wiggle time. Originally, we let designed to have playing act as a students go up and down the stairs or reward for the students’ hard work as walk around, but we knew that they well as be a chance to reset students’ needed variety and more stimulus. attention and energy.

Each child needs something different Both students and teachers of and the activity path provides that.”

FishHawk Creek Elementary are in Pizzichetti had the paint, the mateagreement: the play path has changed rials and the funds. All that was left the Falcons’ school days for the better.

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Grant A Holiday Wish This Season And Select A Tag From The Winn-Dixie Angel Tree

By Gwen Rollings

The Christmas receive anything unless season of giving starttheir name is chosen. The ed early on November paper tells something about 7 at the Winn-Dixie on that person: their first name, 16751 FishHawk Blvd. age, clothing size and even in Lithia as a group of what they wish for little elves (dressed Christmas. The gifts can be just like Girl Scouts) wrapped or brought in bags went to work on decowith Christmas paper rating an Angel Tree in included. They must be the store, helping returned to Winn-Dixie by Santa bring presents Friday, December 18. to some youngsters Everyone on the tree this year.

Fossil Valley Girl Scouts from has received assistance Troop 3529 help decorate the from the Ministry of Hope It was not the first Angel Tree at Winn-Dixie. time similar-looking previously and no other elves were spied decorating a tree in that applications are being considered this location nor was it the first year an Angel year. Long wants every life represented Tree sparkled there. For almost 20 on the Angel Tree to experience the genyears, the Ministry of Hope Through the erosity and love that should define the Lord Jesus Christ in Lithia has placed Christmas spirit, especially this year.

Angel Trees in what was first a Kash n’ For information, call the Ministry of Karry, then a Sweetbay and now a Winn- Hope Through the Lord Jesus Christ at Dixie.

685-5047.

Troop Leader Jennifer Strom said Fossil Valley Girl Scout troops began decorating 9-foot Angel Trees in this Winn-Dixie several years ago. Scout Troop 3529 put their community service to good use by helping make this Christmas season bright for others.

The Angel Trees are kept carefully protected by the Ministry of Hope each year. Janeen Long, co-director, said that during the past 20 years, “We have probably gone through five or six trees. When one wears out, we buy another.” The names of deserving boys and girls under 18 years old and a few widows are taken from the branches by shoppers who promise to bring Christmas gifts to those less fortunate in the community.

The Angel Tree ministry is an extension of the Ministry of Hope that Long 26 and her husband, Wayne, have devoted decades in providing for those who are destitute and in need. Perhaps the most unique feature in all they do, whether MAGNET ENROLLMENT....................PG 4 providing food, appliances, car repairs or EYE ON BUSINESS...........................PG 25 Christmas presents, is ensuring that no one has to pay for anything.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

December 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

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Encore Residents In FishHawk Provide Free Meals To Fire Rescue Heroes

Local 8-Year-Old Becomes Youth Hero And Raises $12,000 For Crohn’s Research

During the team arranged for months of these restaurants to September and deliver the meals to October, 40 the Encore Oasis FishHawk Ranch Club so they can be residents living at dropped off at Station Encore by David #44 by the residents Weekley Homes who participated. purchased and disPrior to ordering, the tributed a total of 48 menu was brought to grab ‘n go meals as Station #44 so indipart of the Encore viduals could choose Gives Back what they would like ‘Sponsor a Hero’ to eat for dinner. The event on Tuesday meals were delivered evenings to those the following week. working at the Acevedo stated that Kenny Keane and his wife Colleen Keane Hillsborough County the Encore communidelivered the grab ‘n go meals to Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Fire Rescue ty is very close and it FishHawk Station #44.

FishHawk Station did not surprise her #44 in Lithia. that they would step up and help.

Encore residents Kenny Keane and Kenny shared how grateful he felt his wife, Colleen Keane, came up with about the support from the community. the idea. Kenny is a retired firefighter and “The folks were really kind and grareceived meals where he worked in Palm cious to donate,” Kenny said. “To add, Beach County. He wanted to do the with many of the heroes working double same for Station #44. Kenny reached out shifts, it really comes in handy with the to Encore Oasis Club in FishHawk Ranch meals coming in,” he said.

Lifestyle Director Sandy Acevedo, inquir“Overall, we just want to give a huge ing about how they could assist. thank you to this community for all that “Kenny spoke to me about how it they have done,” Acevedo said. would be a great opportunity for the For more information, visit neighborhood to get to know their local www.facebook.com/EncoreOasisClub. fire station,” Acevedo said.

Encore Oasis Club is located at 14001 Those who bought the grab ‘n go Swallow Hill Dr. in Lithia. Call 898-8181 meals from several restaurants in the or email Riverview, Brandon and FishHawk areas sandy.acevedo@encoreoasis.com. Fire for the heroes pre-ordered them through Rescue FishHawk Station #44 is located SignUpGenius. The Encore Lifestyle at 3601 FishHawk Blvd. in Riverview.

When you meet for the Crohn’s & Colitis eight-year-old Gavin Foundation through the Shreeve, the energy and local chapter’s Take Steps light in his eyes are program. This year, Gavin inescapable. As a third and his family raised just grade student at over $12,000 for research, FishHawk Creek education programs, supElementary, he loves port programs and commubuilding Legos, playing nity awareness and advogolf and anything Disney. cacy. The team ranks 33 in It is difficult to imagine him the nation in donations and FishHawk Creek student in a hospital bed where the foundation named Gavin Shreeve. he receives periodic fourGavin the Youth Honored hour infusions to combat severe Crohn’s Hero in 2019 and 2020 for his efforts. disease.

Gavin speaks at black tie events with His mother, Christina Shreeve, left hundreds of people present. In addition to her 10-year career as an elementary his family’s personal fundraising, these teacher to manage Gavin’s healthcare. events have also raised thousands of dol“Gavin was sick on and off since he lars for research and community outwas a baby. We didn’t know what was reach. going on. Crohn’s disease presents as When asked if he was nervous to more of arthritis, fevers and rashes when speak in front of all those people, he you’re really young. It doesn’t present like grinned widely and shook his head, sayother IBD diseases.” ing, “Not at all.” Despite COVID-19, the Many think Crohn’s disease is based virtual events have still taken place, and on diet, and although some patients are although he was a little sad to miss the triggered by certain foods, it is much annual walk at Al Lopez Park, it did not more than that. For Gavin, it is genetic dampen their spirits. condition. “The research is so very imporIn addition to the work they do with tant to help doctors better understand the Take Steps, Christina is also the Family illness and find a cure. Basically, his only Advisory Council chair for Johns Hopkins treatment is to be on Remicade, which is All Children’s Hospital. The most requesta chemotherapy drug.” ed toys are Legos for boys and girls of all This requires frequent long stints in ages, Play-Doh, Ryan’s World Molecules the hospital where he receives intraand pretend doctor kits for little kids. She venous infusions that may alleviate and Gavin will gladly deliver any donated Crohn’s, but come with unpleasant side toys. Email Christina at effects. crshreeve@gmail.com or visit This is their third year raising money www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

Heart Gallery Of Tampa Helps To Spread Joy This Holiday Season

Home Instead And Bealls Outlet Spread Christmas Cheer To Local Seniors

Children all According to over the Tampa its website, 80-90 Bay area are in children are feaneed of some tured in Tampa’s extra love this Heart Gallery each holiday season year. and Heart Gallery Over the past of Tampa is offerdecade, the Heart ing a way to conGallery has develnect with some of oped larger touring them. and interactive galEstablished leries, expanding in 2001, Heart to hundreds of Gallery of Tampa cities across the was founded by country.

Diane Granito.

Each gallery Being both a works ceaselessly The Heart Gallery of Tampa is setting its skilled photograto find each child sights on doing good this holiday season. their forever family. pher and adoption worker, Granito fused her two During the holidays, many of the passions together to create a method children featured on the Heart Gallery of introducing these children waiting to website are included in a separate find loving adoptive families in a powarea so that residents can sponsor erful new way by taking her photograthem with a holiday donation. The phy to the public. website features information about “It was almost as if the country each child in addition to his or her was waiting to be told that these chilprofessional photograph, and donors dren are out here because no one have the opportunity to pick the really talked about them before,” said amount of money they would like to Granito. send to the child.

Her poignant portraits of older chilDonations can be paid by credit dren and sibling groups were now card and visitors are also able to send viewable in what it is known today as a message to the child they chose. the Heart Gallery.

To learn more about adoption and Heart Gallery children represent to sponsor a child for the holidays or a those in foster care who need addition- birthday, visit www.heartgallerytamal support in finding families due to fac- pa.org. The Heart Gallery of Tampa is tors of age, race, being part of large located at 5463 W. Waters Ave., Ste. sibling groups and special needs.

850 in Tampa.

The COVID-19 ship. pandemic has affect“While the holidays ed the way we celemay look a little differbrate the holidays, ent this year, the proand as Christmas gram’s mission of quickly approaches, spreading joy to Tampa all of us are becomand Brandon seniors ing creative with will be more important ways we can still than ever as many are make it merry.

Home Instead is a nationwide business with locations in Home Instead is again partnering with local Bealls Outlet stores to our community that be shopping locations for gifts for provides personalseniors. Kristi Campbell, local owner of Home Instead Senior ized care, support Care of Tampa and Brandon, is and education to thrilled that Scott Craft’s Brandon enhance the lives of Bealls Outlet is one of the many Be a Santa to a Senior wish list aging adults and locations. their families. facing increased isolaFor the past 14 years, the Tampa tion due to COVID-19,” Ingram said. and Brandon community has supported Home Instead is again partnering its Be a Santa to a Senior program. “We with local Bealls Outlet stores to be shopstarted the Be a Santa to a Senior proping locations for gifts for the seniors. “It’s gram locally in 2006 and have grown to easy to help,” Ingram said. “Members of reach more seniors every year,” said the community can visit one of the particiTaylor Ingram of Home Instead. “In fact, pating Bealls Outlet locations and look for we reach more than 1,000 seniors conthe Be a Santa to a Senior tree on dissistently with gifts provided by the genplay. Trees will be up through December erosity of local community members. Be 11. Each tree will be decorated with ornaa Santa to a Senior is a way to give back ments featuring seniors’ first names and to older adults in our community and to gift suggestions. Holiday shoppers can make them feel remembered and cherchoose an ornament, buy the requested ished at this time.” gift and return it unwrapped to the store The Be a Santa to a Senior program with the ornament attached.” spreads holiday cheer and brightens the To learn more or to purchase an lives of older adults who are alone or items off of a senior’s wish list, visit financially challenged during the holiday www.BeASantaToASenior.com or call season, providing gifts and companion684-1972.

By Kye Saunders

By Libby Hopkins

December 2020

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Local Market Gives Back To Charity As Vendor Fees Got To FRIENDS Group

By Kate Quesada

If you are a different charity looking to do each month.” some holiday According to shopping that not Hahn, vendors at only helps out the market offer local businesses products including but also a local wreaths, insulated charity, mark your cups, acrylic crafts, calendar for jewelry, sewn crafts Saturday, and Christmas December 5. lanterns.

The Brownlee “We also had a Group of Keller few service venWilliams Realty is dors show some putting together interest,” said the second monthHahn. “At the last ly B Street market we had a The Brownlee Group of Keller Williams home inspector and Marketplace with Realty is putting together the second the fees from ven- monthly market, with the fees from vendor he had a lot of realdor spots going to ly good conversaspots going to F.R.I.E.N.D.S. of West Tampa, on Saturday, December 5 in F.R.I.E.N.D.S. of tions and hopefully Valrico.

West Tampa. it will bring him “Last month was our first event,” some business.” said Customer Care Manager Kelly Hahn believes that what makes Hahn. “If we can get everything the B Street Marketplace different going, we would like this to be an from others in the area is the amount ongoing event that happens the first of sale space for vendors.

Saturday of every month.”

“We do not profit from the event The event, which can hold up to whatsoever,” said Hahn. “I feel like it 50 vendors, takes place at Keller shows with our team as well we are Williams Realty at 2350 E. S.R. 60 in there to help vendors set up and take Valrico. down if needed as well.”

“We just have a great space, but The November market raised also the money collected from the $770 and Hahn hopes that will selling of spaces goes to a charity,” increase with bigger attendance. In said Hahn. “As of right now, December, the group plans to offer F.R.I.E.N.D.S. of West Tampa is the live music and a 50/50 raffle. only charity that we are working with, To learn more or to secure a venbut in the future we would like to host dor spot, contact Hahn at 413-4229.

River Hills Residents Honor Veterans With Neighbors Installing Village Flags

Staff Report

River Hills residents celebrated veterans last month.

Three times each year, River Hills residents decorate their neighborhood with American flags in honor of Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Veterans Day. Even with the current COVID-19 guidelines in place, this year was no exception. In fact, this year was one to remember.

On Saturday morning of November 7, residents masked up and gathered (socially distanced) in small numbers at their respective check-in points. The task of setting out flags always proves to be an easy one for volunteers of all ages, and many hands really do make light work of it. Flags were placed in the medians along the parkway, surrounding the front and back gate houses, at the main entrance to the River Hills Country Club and at each of the 18 village marquee signs. In all, over 500 flags were set out in less than 45 minutes.

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With Veterans Day having been celebrated on November 11, one particular village, Laurel Pointe, decided to take the flag decorating to a new level. An anonymous team of veterans secretly placed a full-size American flag and flanked it with the flags of each of the branches of service—all illuminated beautifully by the marquee lights. The picture was posted on the neighborhood residents’ Facebook page, and the positive feedback and comments started pouring in. Who knew that there were so many veterans, active duty, National Guard members and parents of West Point and Naval Academy students living within River Hills?

Yet again, River Hills residents showed their respect, honor and gratitude to their military neighbors, heroes, spouses and families included. With so many negative or controversial issues on our daily news lately, these acts of patriotism brought smiles, waves, photos and car honks of appreciation to those who passed by. It was a win-win for the entire River Hills community.

For more information about River Hills events, please contact Julie Rule, chair of the River Hills Social Team, at julierule001@gmail.com.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

December 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Bloomingdale AFJROTC Teacher Reflects On Time Spent Teaching

By Faith Miller

Lt. Colonel Malcolm Carolina. He then proceedSnell is in his fourth year of ed to move to Florida and teaching the AFJROTC began teaching at (Air Force Junior Reserve Bloomingdale High School.

Officer Training Corps) at “This area is special Bloomingdale High School. because our goal is to help “It allows me to teach today’s youth to be citizens in a subject area I love and that we can all be proud of. know. All told, I have been We use the core values of wearing the Air Force unithe Air Force to accomplish form for 42 years.” said this,” said Snell when Snell. describing why he believes He began his journey the program is special. in 1978 when he became Snell explained that Lt. Colonel Malcolm Snell is an enlisted airman and the program is required to in his fourth year of teaching AFJROTC (Air Force Junior follow standards set by the had a job as an engineerReserve Officer Training ing assistant. His responsi- Corps) at Bloomingdale High Air Force, including dress bilities included drawing and appearance guideSchool. construction plans for lines, and that it uses the updates and new constructions Air Force’s core values in its at the bases where he was stateaching. The values tioned, along with performing described include ‘Integrity land surveys. He also eventually First,’ ‘Service before Self’ worked as a project inspector and ‘Excellence in for all constructions on the Everything.’ These values base. In 1988, Snell left active duty and teach students to always strive to do joined the Air National Guard and was the right thing in everything they do, to commissioned as an officer in 1989 while give back to the community and country training in emergency management. and to never settle for mediocrity when Due to the fact the Air National Guard doing anything. is a one-weekend-a-month job, he took a Reflecting on his time teaching, he civilian job as a teacher in Northern New said that some of his favorite moments York, teaching areas of architectural draft- have always been when a student ing, special education and technology. comes back to visit and thanks him for Snell taught until 2005, when the Air “being there, giving them the mentorNational Guard activated him and he was ship they needed or helping them realput in charge of a ‘Weapons of Mass ize their potential.”

Destruction Response Team.’ He continTo learn more about the AFJROTC ued doing this until retiring in 2012 and program, call Bloomingdale High becoming an AFJROTC teacher in North School at 744-8018.

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Page 11

Hope For Her Schedules Golf Tournament

By Kate Quesada

Get out your golf help. Each woman clubs and enjoy a and child supported round for a great

by Hope for Her cause next month. receives one-on-one Hope for Her, a individualized support Brandon organization unique to their situahelping women facing tion. homelessness, hunger, Its work is also job loss, domestic vioguided by God, with lence and other seriChrist and his teachous life issues, is hostings at the heart of its ing a golf tournament mission. at River Hills in Valrico “We are so on Monday, January grateful at Hope for 18, 2021.

Her for the overThe event, which whelming love and starts with a check-in prayers,” said at 7:30 a.m. and a Hickman. “Thank you shotgun start at 8:30 to all who partner a.m., includes lunch with us to give hope and prizes for hole-inand invest in changone, straightest drive, ing lives. You are a closest to the pin and blessing to many putting. There will families right here in also be a raffle and our community.”

Hope for Her is hosting a golf tournaauction baskets.

Hope for Her is ment next month to raise funds to help local women in need.

“We are so excitalso hosting a meeted about our 2021 golf tournament,” and-greet for the family and friends of said Cheryl Hickman, executive director. beloved volunteer Peggy Jones on “2020 was a tough year. We reschedSunday, January 17, 2021 from 4-6 p.m. uled the golf tournament a couple times at the River Hills Clubhouse. and now it is finally happening. River The goal of the event is to honor her Hills Golf Club and our community is so with a time of fellowship and rememsupportive of the work we do.” brance.

Hope for Her helps approximately “You can be the hope for women 100 women in need in each month, but and children experiencing unimaginable has to turn people away due to a lack of life circumstances in our area,” said funds. The charity takes a big picture Hickman. approach and supports women in every For more information, call Hickman aspect of their lives, including housing, at 309-3357, employment, childcare, food, finances, email info@hopeforherfl.org or go transportation and safety, in an effort to to HopeForHerFL.org.

How COVID Contagious Are You?

By Libby Hopkins

There is so much data tion of these patients so that available online for COVIDpersons who are by current 19 and it changes daily. The evidence no longer infecWorld Wide Web offers tious are not kept unnecesinformation on how you can sarily isolated and excluded protect yourself from from work or other responsiCOVID-19, symptoms of bilities.”

COVID-19 and how long In doing my research for you should quarantine if you this article, I spoke with Dr. contracted COVID-19, but Elliot Cazes, a local OBGYN there is no real data on in Tampa. when you are the most con“Patients are most contagious once you’ve been tagious for the first five to 10 infected. days after they’ve tested Dr. Elliot Cazes is an According to the CDC, positive,” Dr. Cazes said.

OBGYN in Tampa. available data indicates that “Unfortunately, there is no persons with mild to moderate COVID-19 specific way to know other than to rely on remain infectious no longer than 10 days the positive test result. Once a patient has after symptom onset. tested positive, they would need to stay in “Persons with more severe to critical quarantine for 10 to 14 days.” illness or severe immunocompromise Most people who are infected with likely remain infectious no longer than 20 COVID-19 produce antibodies, which are days after symptom onset,” the CDC proteins that make it harder for the virus website states. “Recovered persons can to infect cells. Antibody levels typically fall continue to shed detectable SARS-CoV-2 once the immediate threat of infection RNA in upper respiratory specimens for declines. Several new studies have found up to three months after illness onset, that COVID-19 antibody levels decline, albeit at concentrations considerably but then stabilize and remain in the blood lower than during illness, in ranges where even two to three months after infection. replication-competent virus has not been Other recent studies found COVID-specifreliably recovered and infectiousness is ic B cells and T cells in the blood, months unlikely. The etiology of this persistently after people recovered. This all suggests detectable SARS-CoV-2 RNA has yet to that the immune system would be ready be determined. Studies have not to react quickly and strongly if re-exposed found evidence that clinically recovered to COVID-19. (Source: persons with persistence of viral RNA https://www.health.harvard.edu.) have transmitted SARS-CoV-2 to others.

The best way to stay safe and free of These findings strengthen the justification contracting COVID-19 is to wash your for relying on a symptom-based, rather hands, wear a mask and practice social than test-based, strategy for ending isola- distancing.

Get Alerted To COVID-19 Exposure

By Libby Hopkins

Apple and Google have efforts to notify people of joined forces to help people possible COVID-19 expoknow if they have been sure in a way that’s more exposed to COVID-19. The reliable, efficient and pritwo businesses jointly creatvate. The app for your ed the Exposure area (if available) can be Notifications System out of a found in your app store. shared sense of responsibiliOnce you opt-in to the ty to help governments and Exposure Notifications our global community fight System, it will generate a this pandemic through conrandom ID for your tact tracing. device. To help ensure Apple and Google have joined forces to help people these random IDs can’t be The Exposure know if they have been Notifications System on your used to identify you or exposed to COVID-19. smartphone will enable conyour location, they change tact tracing apps to send you a notificaevery 10-20 minutes. Your phone and the tion if you’ve likely been exposed to phones around you will work in the backCOVID-19. Your local public health ground to exchange these privacy-preauthority, not by Google or Apple, will serving random IDs via Bluetooth. You do develop contact tracing apps. not need to have the app open for this “We need as many tools in our toolkit process to take place. Your phone periodas possible to stop the spread of COVID,” ically checks all the random IDs associatsaid Survivor Corps Founder Diana ed with positive COVID-19 cases against Berrent. “We have masks, we have social its own list. If there’s a match, the app will distancing and that’s it. We have been notify you with further instructions from relying on contact tracing, but contact your public health authority on how to tracing hasn’t been working. The spread keep you and the people around you is so significant at this point that it’s truly safe. almost impossible to trace every single Currently, the state of Florida does line of infection.” not recognize the use of this app, but Tracing the contact among potentially Berrent hopes that stories like this will affected individuals has been one of the help make the community aware of the methodologies public health authorities app and push state officials to take part in have used to try to slow the transmission this app. “My hope is that if the communiof infectious diseases. Public health ty knows this app is available, they will authorities are turning to mobile phone help to make state officials realize how technology to help improve and automate important it is in helping fight the COVIDthe most difficult aspects of contact trac19 virus,” Berrent said. ing. The Exposure Notifications technoloVisit www.google.com/covid19/expogy assists public health authorities in their surenotifications/select/.

Get To Know Your COVID-19 Testing Options, Rapid, PCR, Antigen

By Libby Hopkins

With COVID-19 infection numbers on the rise and the holiday season upon us, now more than ever COVID-19 testing is a must. But where can one go to get a test, which test is more accurate and what are the costs?

First, let’s explain the difference between the tests that are available. PCR tests and antigen tests are both diagnostic tests, which means that they can be used to determine whether you currently have an active coronavirus infection.

PCR tests detect the presence of the virus’ genetic material using a technique called reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, or RT-PCR. For this test, a sample may be collected through a nasal or throat swab, or a saliva sample may be used. The sample is typically sent to a laboratory for testing. PCR tests are highly accurate. However, it can take days to over a week to get the results of a PCR test.

Antigen tests detect specific proteins on the surface of the coronavirus. These are rapid tests because you get your results in less than an hour. “This is a test that does not take longer than 15 minutes,” said Dr. Sonia Ruiz of Bloomingdale Pediatric Associates. “It’s done in-house. I charge $50 for this test and I offer it to anyone needing a rapid COVID test.”

If you’d rather do your COVID test in the privacy of your own home,

There are multiple COVID-19 testing options in our area.

Quest Diagnostics can send a test to your home. “Accessible, high-quality COVID-19 diagnostic testing is essential to containing the spread of COVID-19,” said Jay Wohlgemuth, MD, senior vice president and chief medical officer for Quest Diagnostics.

“With our new QuestDirect COVID-19 Active Infection self-collection kit, anyone can access a high-quality COVID19 test with access to interpretation and referral into care from a physician. Additionally, individuals can receive a self-collection kit either at home or at a nearby Wal-Mart drivethrough location for the ultimate in speed, safety and convenience.”

BayCare Urgent Care centers also offer an effective and reliable rapid test that can detect both COVID-19 and the flu. The test is available to asymptomatic people wishing to confirm they are negative for COVID-19 before traveling or visiting loved ones during the holiday season.

This service, which is an extension of Tampa International Airport’s testing site operated by BayCare, will offer a real-time RT-PCR test that detects both the flu and COVID-19 with the same reliability as a labbased test. Patients can receive test results in 30 minutes.

Due to limited supply, RTPCR tests will be available on a reservation basis. Reservations can be made using Save Your Spot® at https://baycare.org/services/urgent-care. The test will not be billed to insurance but will be available as a self-pay service for $150. “We’re looking forward to offering this service for patients and giving them an accurate diagnosis in real time,” said Jim Cote, senior vice president for ambulatory services. “This service will give people a peace of mind as they plan their holiday travels and celebrations with their families.”

Testing Locations: ● Bloomingdale Pediatric Associates, 4316 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico. Call 684-1881.

Testing cost is $50 ● Get Well Express Urgent Care, 1908 James L. Redman Pkwy. Plant City. Call 717-7425. Cost is $59 without insurance, $40 with. Finger prick. ● BayCare Urgent Care, 10125 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Call for an appointment at 605-3200. Costs may vary due to which test. Some tests are billed, others are self-pay. ● Advent Health Centra Care in front of Target on Bloomingdale, 10222 Bloomingdale Ave, Riverview, FL 33578 Call for an appointment at (813) 515-5814. https://centracare.adventhealth.com.

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Page 14

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Local Resident Stays Strong And Gets Support From Operation Lotus & FishHawk Community

By Lily Belcher Thirteen-year-old Jordy collected cards Lucas Va was diagwritten by the communosed with acute nity for Lucas and his lymphocytic leukemia parents, who are stayin October after sufing in the hospital with fering from backpain him, and assembled a in the few months gift basket for before his diagnosis.

Gabriella. Operation Lucas had always Lotus started a been healthy and fundraiser to raise active, so his diagnomoney for gift cards to The Va family, from left to right: sis was a shock for give to the Va family to Saroun, Lucas, Monique and Gabriella. the Va family. Lucas help pay for meals. visited five hospitals before Brockmeier-Jordy ’s son, Johns Hopkins All Brodie, is Lucas’ classmate at Children’s Hospital diagRandall Middle School and nosed Lucas and started wanted to involve Lucas’ treatment. friends and classmates by “We’re getting great encouraging them to wear treatment at All Children’s. orange and raise money to We’re in the right place and help fund Lucas’ treatments. he’ll get through this,” said “When Brodie heard of Monique Va, Lucas’ mom.

[Lucas’ diagnosis] he came “He’s actually doing very, very well. He’s right to me and said, ‘Mom I’m so sad been very strong and he’s been taking about Lucas. I want to help however I this as best as he can and he’s given us can,’” explained Brockmeier-Jordy. “His strength throughout this whole process.” goal is to get every student at Randall to Melanie Brockmeier-Jordy with show support for Lucas.”

Operation Lotus did not know the Va famAs a community-wide show of supily personally, but she wanted to show her port, Operation Lotus ordered rubber support with the FishHawk community. bracelets that say “#LucasVaStrong” and She started by tying orange ribbons paired up with Lawn Greeters Tampa to around FishHawk, including the soccer make yard signs with the same slogan. field where Lucas’ younger sister, “We thank the community,” said Gabriella, plays. Due to coronavirus proMonique. “We’ve been there for 18 years tocols, Gabriella is not able to see her and it’s amazing. That’s why I love brother in the hospital, which Monique FishHawk. I’ve never had doubts or said has been hard on her. regrets about living there. It’s such a wonAlong with the ribbons, Brockmeierderful place.”

Volume 19, Issue 12

Brandon Outreach Clinic Offers Free Medical Assistance For Qualified Hillsborough Residents

By Gwen Rollings

Hundreds of cars pass healthy so they can go to by 517 N. Parsons Ave. work and take care of their weekly in Brandon. There families by managing their is a sign at the end of an conditions, keeping them out inconspicuous strip mall of expensive emergency saying Brandon Outreach rooms and minimizing Clinic (BOC) is located healthcare costs in our comthere. What that sign does munity. not say is that BOC might Although most patients have an answer to the coming to BOC work and healthcare concerns of have incomes at or below many residents of 200 percent of the federal Dr. Stephen Parks opened Hillsborough County who poverty level (for a family of the doors to the Brandon Outreach Clinic in 1989. do not have health insurfour, this is $48,600), their ance and cannot afford jobs do not include access to healthcare, and the clinic affordable health insurance. charges no fees for services to qualified As an income-based clinic, those seeking patients. medical services are asked for donations The vision to create a safety net for to help purchase medications, medical uninsured and underinsured individuals supplies and operating expenses. who were falling through the healthcare The eligibility requirements for pedicracks began in 1987. Stephen D. Parks, atric (infants to 17 years) and adults (18M.D. brainstormed what this clinic might 64 years) are: (1) resident of Hillsborough look like with other medical and commuCounty, (2) U.S. citizen or permanent resnity leaders. When Dr. Parks suggested ident, (3) meet low income guidelines and that someone needed to be appointed as (4) no other medical insurance (including point man, they appointed him.

Medicare, Medicaid or other governmentAfter two years of planning, fundraisfunded healthcare.) ing and establishing a grassroots network Dr. Parks established his primary of providers, the clinic opened its doors in care practice in 1983 and has served on April 1989. Staffed entirely by volunteers, boards for six years at Brandon Regional the clinic opened only one evening a Hospital and for 25 years as a medical week. Since then, a collaboration with director at BOC. He said, “The impact of other medical providers and volunteers this clinic goes far beyond just treating has expanded its hours to four days a physical conditions. We hope to positively week. impact individuals, families and our comBOC is a 501(c)(3) organization offer- munity by bridging the gap for the unining diagnostic and primary care and a sured.” three-tiered pharmacy. The goal of BOC For information, visit www.theis to help patients become and remain outreachclinic.com or call 654-1388.

December 2020

Page 15

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Local Family Helps Reduce Waste With In School TerraCycle Program

Newsome Student Collects More Than 1,000 Cans Of Green Beans

Sobhana When Balaji’s Balaji of FishHawk children read and her family are about the Great passionate recyPacific Garbage clers. Together, Patch, they realthey try to practice ized they wanted and live a less to be more trash, less throwinvolved with recyaway, reduce, cling. reuse and recycle “I introduced lifestyle in anyher to the thing they do.

TerraCycle, a “We do this recycling organiso we leave Sobhana Balaji and her two children, Sahana zation that I am a and Sidhaarth, are passionate recyclers. behind a very tiny member of, and footprint on this planet,” Balaji said. “As a they have awesome recycling programs, kid I grew up to respect and even worship which most of them are free,” Balaji said. the forces of nature and call our planet as “We signed up for the Snack Bag Mother Earth. Being a yoga practitioner Recycling program. My daughter set up a from when I was 8-years-old and being a bin in her classroom for her friends to vegan has probably taught me that living recycle their snack bags, juice pouches a life with a small footprint is actually and wrappers. The bin was then packed [more] valuable than actually being lavand shipped to TerraCycle. The kids were ish.” excited when they even earned points for Balaji and her family feel they need their effort.” to make our planet better for future generBalaji’s children are now doing a ations.

Trick or Trash collection drive to gather all “Our forefathers had great visions, candy and snack wrappers from they built a safe environment, lived a sim- Halloween candy, and the collection drive ple life and worked hard to create a great will continue to run till the end of holidays. future to make our lives better now in so “Our wonderful school, Boyette many ways,” Balaji said. “We are enjoying Springs, and our community have been and reaping the benefits of their hard supporting us to achieve our small goal,” work and difficult lives. Our family truly Balaji said. “If other schools, PTAs or kids believes that we must have a greater are interested in starting this initiative, I sense of responsibility for the future genwould be happy to help and spread erations. The least we can do is not leave awareness.” behind a trashed and catastrophic earth To learn more about TerraCycle, visit for our kids.” www.terracycle.com/en-US/.

FishHawk resiparents we spread the dent Ben Phelps saw word on social media a need and filled it sites and the communilast month with help ty came together and from his generous helped out.” community. Ben, a The mission of freshman at Seeds of Hope is to Newsome High provide help to local School, collected people in need and more than 1,000 meaningful community cans of green beans service hours for stufor local food bank dents. Before the panSeeds of Hope to demic, the charity was help with the group’s serving about 100 resiannual Thanksgiving dents a week, but it is Newsome High School freshman Ben food distribution. now providing items to Phelps collected more than 1,000 cans According to around 500 at its of green beans for Seeds of Hope’s annual Thanksgiving food drive.

Ben’s mom, Kristie weekly food bank as Phelps, who is an active volunteer for well as running a school backpack proSeeds of Hope, the charity usually asks gram and a mobile food pantry. its student volunteers to collect donations Groups and neighborhoods throughoutside of Publix in the lead-up to out the area participated in the Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving drive, collecting items like “Since COVID is here, Publix is not corn bread mix and cranberry sauce, in allowing the students, so we had to get addition to Ben’s green beans. creative,” said Kristie. “Ben thought if we “It’s all a community effort to spread can get groups or neighborhoods to take holiday cheer as the numbers are recordon the task of being responsible for just breaking at the food pantry,” said Kristie. one item for the boxes, it would make it Ben is thankful for the generosity of easier.” his community and credits them for the Ben was able to collect more than ability to meet his goal so quickly.

1,000 cans of green beans in about 10 “Starting a food collection isn’t hard, days. the hard part is finding the right people to “I always like to challenge myself and donate,” he said. “Luckily for me, I live in since this year has changed so much, the generous community of FishHawk doing a regular collection wasn’t going to West and they reached our goal faster be that easy,” said Ben, who has worked than we could have ever expected.” with Seeds of Hope as volunteer for To learn more about Seeds of Hope, about three years. “With the help of my visit www.sohopefl.org.

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Page 16

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

Tech Connect Program Offers Internet Support To Hillsborough County Elementary Students & Families

Bloomingdale High Graduate Is Star In Always Patsy Cline At Straz

School closures due “Since launching on October to COVID-19 impacted 5, we’ve received 48 referrals Hillsborough County stufrom public elementary dents, teachers and schools across Hillsborough families in numerous County with more coming in ways, but social and daily. We are working to economic issues quickly enroll as many students and created a digital divide families as quickly as possiand became a matter of ble.” urgency for Hillsborough Funding from the Education Foundation Children’s Board added (HEF). four full-time staff: a According to Kim program coordinator Daniel is one of Hillsborough Jowell, CEO of HEF, Country's Tech Connect stu- and three e-learning coaches. dents who was given a com“Closing the digital Although the grant does puter and internet support. divide for our highest not cover the total cost of needs students has been a top priority internet service, HEF has committed since inequities surfaced during the pannearly $40,000 to ensure more children demic. We launched our new initiative have the tools they need to succeed. The called Tech Connect in October to contin- cost to serve a student with a computer ue our work to create equitable access to and internet for a year is $640 per child. resources and opportunities for all stuEligible students must be referred to dents in Hillsborough County Public this free program by a student’s school Schools.” social worker, instructional staff or adminFocusing on the premise that every istrators. Based on the family’s needs, student should have access and the they may receive a computer, one year of opportunity to benefit from a high-quality internet access and guidance in using eeducation, COVID-19 presented unique learning programs, as well as ongoing challenges concerning disparities that support and training. some families in Hillsborough County Jowell explained, “Families must face by not having internet access, espeweigh a number of personal factors in cially in rural areas, or affording quality making the decision between e-learning internet service. or attending classes at school. HEF’s The Tech Connect program was Tech Connect initiative supports students funded by a grant from the Children’s and families who choose e-learning but Board of Hillsborough County and will aren’t fully equipped with technology to support nearly 300 families of elementary reach their full academic potential.” school students participating in e-learning.

To volunteer, donate or for more Mindy Taylor, HEF’s Tech Connect proinformation, visit http://educationfoundagram coordinator, said in early November, tion.com/programs/donate.

Heather Krueger close. can sing and when I “It was a very say sing, I mean scary feeling to think SING! She is curof ‘What’s next?’ or rently starring in ‘Where do we go from Always Patsy Cline here?’ and ‘Is theater at the Jaeb Theater ever going to come at the Straz Center back?’,” Krueger said. in Tampa.

“This is my career I “It feels great to built my whole life be back on stage around and now how and on a stage I do I start over? It’s pretty much grew up been a stressful six on,” Krueger said. months, to say the “The show is going least.”

Photo courtesy of Rob Harris Photography great and it’s been When Krueger got Heather Krueger is a graduate of very well received.” Bloomingdale the call to be in Always High School and the curKrueger gradurent star of Always Patsy Cline at the Patsy Cline, she was Jaeb Theater. ated from ecstatic.

Bloomingdale High School and has “I couldn’t wait for rehearsals to been performing professionally since begin,” Krueger said. “It was sad when 1992, and over the years she has we walked back into the theater for starred in many musical productions all rehearsal for the show because the set around the U.S., but she is very happy for Shout was still up and everything to be performing in Tampa. “I feel truly was how we left it back in March. It was blessed that I am able to do what I love like time stood still.” and be able to do it in my hometown,” Krueger hopes the Straz Center and Krueger said. other theaters continue to reopen so The recent pandemic has taken its performers can do what they love and toll on the theater world. From the lights theatergoers can support the arts. “I’m on Broadway going dark to the lights thrilled this is the first show back at the going dark at the Straz Center, many Jaeb and hope this can become a trend performers like Krueger were extremely with small live shows coming back into worried that they would never perform the theater.” again onstage in front of a live audience.

To see Krueger perform as Patsy Krueger was performing in Shout at Cline in Always Patsy Cline, purchase the Straz Center when the pandemic hit tickets at the Straz Center website, back in March. Shout had only been run- www.strazcenter.org. The show runs ning a short time and then it had to until Sunday, December 6.

By Gwen Rollings

By Libby Hopkins

December 2020

Page 21

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Local Insurance Agent Michele Bartock Makes Insurance Easy

By Amy Schechter

Navigating the individuals, including confusing waters of those over 65, lasts from Medicare and insurOctober 15 until ance is stressful, and December 7. Then, the consequences of Medicare Advantage poor choices can be open enrollment will costly. That’s where begin in early 2021, Michele Bartock, an where there will be other independent 2-15 and opportunities to change 2-20 licensed insuryour plan if not satisfied. ance agent, can step Plus, if you are turning in to help find the prod65, you have approxiuct and price that are mately a six-month winright for you. dow to sign up based on Bartock has been your birthday. Confused Michele Bartock, a licensed a Florida resident yet? You still have not insurance agent, with her mom, Ruth McKeith. since 1980 and has even examined a plan. lived in the FishHawk area since 2005.

That’s where Bartock can help.

She has been helping local customers “I offer excellent customer service make sound insurance decisions for the and will be available for my clients even last 15 years. “When you turn 65, you are after the sale. If you have a question, we inundated with flyers and calls,” Bartock can set up a meeting at a time and a said. “People and businesses have your place convenient for you,” Bartock information, but not always your best explained. She can meet in your home, in interests. I wanted to be an independent a public place for coffee or even have a agent, so I have access to a variety of Zoom meeting or phone call, if that is insurance companies and can tailor plans what’s most comfortable for you. “If your to meet the insurer’s needs.” Rather than current coverage isn’t working, then you go straight to the bottom line like most can explore other options and coverages; insurance agencies, Bartock seeks to if you are brand-new to this, we can find a truly listen to your unique situation and plan that fits your lifestyle,” said Bartock. find a plan where the coverage and cost She will take the time to explain your are right, even if that doesn’t mean going options and give you straight answers as with her. “I want to be there to be the per- if she were preparing a plan for her own son who will be very honest with my parents. clients,” she added.

For more information or to set up a Medicare, Medigap and Medicare meeting, call 813-767-2878 or reach out Advantage can be confusing. The to Michele at mlbartock@zohomail.com.

Medicare annual enrollment period to You can also find her on Facebook at sign up or change your plan for qualifying https://fb.me/MLBartock.

FishHawk Fellowship Church Provides Shoes To Students

By Kate Quesada

More than 170 ing a practical need.” local students will Duncan also have a new pair of explained that within shoes this 48 hours of putting Christmas thanks to out the request for a group of generdonations, all 171 ous residents. The students had been congregation at selected by congreFishHawk gation members.

Fellowship Church Members were came together last given the opportunity month to buy shoes to pick up postcards for students in need with a QR code to The congregation at FishHawk at Pinecrest Fellowship Church donated 171 pairs scan. The code took Elementary School donors to a list of of shoes for students at Pinecrest Elementary School. for the second year specific children to in a row. choose from to purchase the shoes According to Missions Pastor for. They were then asked to wrap the Corey Duncan, the church has been shoes and attach the postcards with working with Pinecrest Elementary for their information to the wrapped gifts. years, providing items such as books Shoes were then dropped off at the and blankets. church.

“From this relationship we were “We still have people who want to made aware that many children at the get involved,” he explained, “so we’ve school were either wearing shoes that offered for them to donate Walmart didn’t fit anymore or had holes,” said gift cards. This will help the school’s Duncan. “That birthed the idea to social workers to meet needs all year donate shoes.” long.”

Last year, the congregation colDuncan encouraged anyone who lected 100 pairs of shoes to identified would like to help the students at students and this year it raised its Pinecrest Elementary to purchase goal to 171 pairs.

Walmart cards and send them to the “Pinecrest is within our community church at 15326 FishHawk Blvd., and is a Title 1 school, which means Lithia, FL 33547, Attn. Missions. many of their students are on reduced FishHawk Fellowship Church has lunch,” said Duncan. “They have a many ministries and ways for residents high population of foster, migrant and to give back throughout the year. For homeless children. It’s an opportunity more information, visit www.fishhawkto share the love of Jesus by providfc.org or call Duncan at 655-7431.

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Page 22

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

GEICO Skytypers To Perform In Lakeland

Staff Report

According to Jessica Prah, with Paramount Public Relations, both trainer aircraft were used to prepare pilots of ‘The Greatest Generation’ for combat.

“The GEICO Skytypers’ low-level precision-flying demonstration was designed by team members who served in the United States military,” said Prah, who explained that the GEICO The GEICO Skytypers Air Show Team will be among a long Skytypers ‘skytype’ by creating giant messages list of entertainers performing at the Sun N’ Fun Holiday Flying Festival and Car Show on Friday and Saturday, in the sky with five aircraft December 4-5 at Lakeland Linder International Airport. flying in a tight, lineThe abreast formation and coordinating dot GEICO Skytypers Air Show Team, the matrix-style messages with environleading vintage airshow performance mentally friendly puffs of white smoke. squadron, will be among a long list of “A computer located in the lead airentertainers performing at the Sun N’ craft sends radio signals to the other Fun Holiday Flying Festival and Car planes and their white puffs of smoke Show on Friday and Saturday, create the skytyped messages that are December 4-5 at Lakeland Linder often as tall as the Empire State International Airport.

Building and seen from a 15-mile In addition to the car show and airradius,” she said. plane displays, the event, which is the For more information on the first of its kind, will include a runway 5K GEICO planes, please visit run, a hot air balloon launch, more than www.geicoskytypers.com.

50 exhibitors, food and much more.

To learn more about the Sun N’ One of the highlights of the event Fun Holiday Flying Festival and Car will be Santa arriving in a Stearman to Show, which will take place at Lakeland collect mail from the kids.

Linder International Airport on 900 Don Planeside and RV camping is also Emerson Dr. in Lakeland starting at 8 available. a.m. on Friday, December 4, visit flyThe GEICO Skytypers, celebrating snf.org/holiday_festival/. Tickets are the 75th anniversary of the end of also available to purchase in advance WWII, will fly six WWII SNJs, the and registration is required for the 5K. Navy’s equivalent of the Texas T-6.

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Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 12/31/2020.

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Volume 19, Issue 12

Brandon Chamber Hosts Inspire! Women Who Lead Luncheon

Staff Report

The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is bringing Brandon businesswomen together with the Inspire! Women Who Lead luncheon. Tickets for the event, held on Thursday, December 10 from 11:30 a.m.1p.m. at The Regent, start at $45 and include programming and lunch.

Speakers include Dr. Martha Ducatel, general dentist and owner of Healthy Bodies Dental Center; Captain Stacie Molina with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Tina Blount, community pastor of ARISE Church; and Carey Cox, director of marketing and brand strategy for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Lennise Jackson-Germany, owner and founder of Livy O’s Catering, will kick off the event with her story and a pump-up song. Bernadette Pello, 2020 chairman of the board and president of Livingstone Academy, will be moderating the event.

“After the year we’ve had, it’s nice to have this event to look forward to.

The Brandon area has a lot of amazing businesswomen and this event only scratches the surface. I’m happy

to be moderating the program with such strong women leaders in our community,” Pello said.

Brittany Walsh, director of operations, added, “Our community is full of success stories and it’s the chamber’s job to share and celebrate these stories.

Our panel is unique as it highlights both local Brandon and regional Hillsborough business leaders.

This event is a great opportunity to bring our members and the Brandon community together to hear from these four inspiring women.”

Event sponsors include ARISE Church, Legends Escape Rooms, Livingstone Academy and Rasmussen College. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated 60 years in the community of offering businesses the opportunity to join together through membership to connect and collaborate.

The chamber is located at 1463 Oakfield Dr., Ste. 134 in Brandon.

To learn more or to purchase event tickets, visit brandonchamber.com or call 6891221.

December 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 23

Page 24

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

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Storage at Kingsway Rd. The two buildings on S.R. 60 near Lakewood Dr. in Brandon will be Bolay and Panda Express with no replacement announced for Lucky’s in that plaza.

The land cleared at Lumsden Rd. and Kings Ave. will be a RaceTrac with Walmart on Causeway Blvd. adding a health clinic, a new concept only available at this location. Further west on Causeway Blvd., both Texas Roadhouse and Bubba’s 33 will soon be opening at Falkenburg Rd. Bloomingdale Ave. is seeing two banks with PNC Bank under construction at Providence Rd. and TD Bank breaking ground in front of the Walmart Supercenter along with Heartland Dental and a yet unnamed third tenant.

Bloomingdale Square is getting a The UPS Store with LA Fitness’ opening date still unannounced.

On Boyette Rd. in Riverview, the two unfinished block structures west of CVS will be a Culver’s and an as yet unnamed daycare with ALDI recently breaking ground on its newest location on U.S. 301 across from Balm Riverview Rd. The Triple Creek area will see a Goddard Daycare off Boggy Creek Dr. with FishHawk getting a new 36,000 sq. ft. medical office built at the Mosaic Dr. and Circa Crossing Dr. intersection.

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Stores recently opened include Cigars International, a 6,000plus sq. ft. indoor/outdoor destination featuring over 1,300 cigar brands, a full-service bar and multiple flat screen TVs, all housed under a state-of-the-art ventilation system and located on Palm River Rd. near TopGolf, where plans for its 11,443 sq. ft. putt-putt course have temporarily been put on hold. The Flip Flop Shops in Bloomingdale Square welcomes anyone searching for casual footwear to its location near Bealls.

A smorgasbord of new dining choices recently opened, starting with Eggs Up Grill and Wendy’s, both located in Riverview on U.S. 301 near Falkenburg Rd. Donovan’s Meatery in Winthrop Town Centre has been receiving rave reviews along with Gasparilla Pizzeria & Growlers in Bella Plaza on Bloomingdale Ave. Cali Cafe, specializing in homemade Colombian coffee and goodies, celebrated its reopening in Riverview on U.S. 301, south of Boyette Rd. Mandola’s Italian Kitchen introduced its first Florida location on U.S. 301 in Riverview not far from the long-awaited Chick-fil-A near Summerfield Crossing Blvd.

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Page 6

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

Woman’s Clubhouse Has Served Brandon For Over 90 Years: 129 Moon Ave., Brandon Sometimes big things come in tiny packages. That certainly applies to the little building at 129 N. Moon Ave. in Brandon that has had an outsized influence on the community’s life. There you will find the Brandon Woman’s Club, constructed by its members in 1925 and now protected by the Brandon Woman’s Club, 129 Moon Avenue board of county comal design as one reason for protection. missioners as a local historic landmark.

The structure incorporates many characThe Brandon Woman’s Club can teristics of the bungalow style, typical of trace its roots back to 1915, when a the 1920s. This building, however, has group of 14 pioneer women met at the home of Alice Rankin to organize a home been lovingly maintained and cared for by the club’s members. Importantly for hisdemonstration club. The Hillsborough toric preservation, there have been very Historic Resources Review Board few changes to the structure. Its owners (HRRB) approved the landmark designamaintained the building’s basic style and tion, in part, because the club’s formation character, and it looks very much like it serves as an excellent local representadid when first constructed. tion of the development of such clubs From its inception, the Brandon around the nation.

Woman’s Club dedicated itself to the For 10 years, the club met at its community of Brandon. The club is wellmembers’ homes and in local schools. In remembered for its support of the 1925, the club, now officially chartered as Brandon School in providing a small the Brandon Woman’s Club, set out to library and hot lunches.

In the 1920s, the have a building of its own. Through variclub’s focus expanded to improving the ous fundraisers, it raised the $50 necescommunity’s quality of life, and the listing sary to put down on a lot in Brandon in of its community involvement is enorOctober 1925. It took another two years mous. to raise enough money to begin construcWhen the club reorganized in 1925, tion. On September 6, 1928, the club’s 45 members decided to build a small clubmembers met at their new clubhouse for house that would serve the entire comthe first time. munity.

It would be impossible to list all of The county also included architectur-

Expiration 01 /01 /2021

By Charles Nelson

dren overtaxed the small structure, forcing a move to the Brandon Civic Center in the 1960s.

In 1960, the club resurrected a library in a corner of its small clubhouse, serving Brandon area library patrons three days a week until the county opened a new library in 1968.

The Brandon Woman’s Club generously supported that county effort with its time, talents and books along with a generous monetary donation.

Of course, the clubhouse Checking out books at the Woman’s Club Library.

Source: Tampa Bay Times, December 20, 1966. also served as the traditional meeting house for its memthe groups, clubs and individuals who bers.

From this small structure, the memhave used the building. Girl and Boy bers gathered to socialize and enjoy a Scout troops, medical organizations and covered dish meal. churches and religious groups are just a From here, it also continued to serve small sampling of those that used the the community in significant ways and facility. with a substantial impact on Brandon’s Interestingly, the Hillsborough County well-being. government served Brandon residents by In more recent years, membership in using, at various times, the clubhouse as the Brandon Woman’s Club declined and a polling place, a driver’s licensing facility it eventually disbanded.

Fortunately for and a draft board during World War II. us, however, it deeded the “little building Tampa-based newspapers often wrote of that could” to the Brandon Junior private weddings and parties held at the Woman’s Club, which proudly continues clubhouse. to care for this historic building today.

In 1936, the club opened a health clinic at the clubhouse that served the Charles Nelson Bio community until the 1960s. Once a Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in History from George Mason University and month, a doctor and nurse from the taught as an adjunct instructor at HCC Hillsborough County Health Service used (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated with the facility to give babies checkups and Tampa Bay History Center as a volunteer docent, researcher and immunizations while club members community lecturer, with an emphasis on helped by weighing and changing babies.

South Hillsborough County history.

However, at times, 40 mothers with chil-

Expiration 01 /01 /2021

Expiration 01 /01 /2021

December 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Page 7

Community Improvements Can Be Made With County Mini-Grant Program

Holidays On Wheels To Deliver Food And Toys To Families In Need

Residents who tions or point us in the want to enhance the right direction,” said sense of community in Watts, referring to their neighborhood Hillsborough County’s can get financial supOffice of port to do so thanks to Neighborhood Hillsborough County’s Relations, adding that Neighborhood Mini“the county holds Grant Program. annual neighborhood Organizations conferences where such as homeowner we meet county and Lithia Ranch received a mini-grant associations, commu- from Hillsborough County to improve community leaders.” equestrian facilities and signage. nity development disOther projects in tricts and civic associations can receive the local area that received grants include grants of up to $5,000 for projects that support for the Lake St. Charles CDD’s improve their neighborhood or create development of a community information civic engagement among residents. phone app and the Lithia Ranch HOA’s The grants can be used for a variety enhancements to its equestrian facilities of projects, ranging from phone apps that and signage improvements. keep neighbors informed to street festiOne of the neighborhood liaisons vals that entertain and delight residents assisting applicants is Stephanie Agliano. while promoting community engagement. She said the goal of her office’s activities, The deadline to apply for grants is 5 p.m. such as providing mini-grants, is to on Friday, December 4, which will be disimprove the common habitability of the bursed in 2021. Grants will be awarded county by supporting local neighborthe week of Monday, January 18, 2021. hoods.

One of the neighborhood organiza“At the end of the day, we all want to tions that has previously been awarded a feel good about where we go home to.” grant is the Bloomingdale Homeowners Having a connection to the Office of Association. The HOA was awarded Neighborhood Relations is essential to funds to support its Safety First! camreceiving a grant since applicants must paign, which included the purchase of be registered with the office as a civic safety items like goggles for its annual association, homeowner association, specommunity cleanup. Bloomingdale cial taxing district or neighborhood watch Homeowners Association President group. Assistance is available for groups Susan Watts said the county backs up its wanting to create a formal neighborhood grant program with good advice as well. organization.

“Our county’s neighborhood program Visit the Hillsborough County Office has benefited us in numerous ways. of Neighborhood Relations online at hillsWanda Sloan and her staff answer quesboroughcounty.org or call 272-5860.

This holiday seais now open. son, if you are or Households that know someone who qualify include those is without transportawith children under tion and is home18 years old who bound with children, are not able to get a Holidays On Wheels ride from household can help. The promembers or others gram, launched by for life-sustaining Tampa Bay Network trips, such as medto End Hunger in ical, grocery, work, Residents of the area who are partnership with job-related homebound, without access to Metropolitan transportation and have children living at training/education home can get assistance.

Ministries, delivers a and other vital servfull holiday meal and toys to transportaices. It also includes households led by tion-disadvantaged and homebound fami- an adult with a disability or illness with lies with children this November and children. The head of the household must December. pass a background check and someone Holidays On Wheels was developed must be home to receive the delivery. to ensure that every family has a nutriThe deadline to register for tious and joyous holiday celebration.

Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 5 The program will use over 300 volun- and Monday, December 7 for the winter teers to deliver to families that are homeholidays. Please visit www.networktoendbound or do not have access to a workhunger.org/holidays. ing or reliable vehicle. For those families This program’s volunteers will pick up that have their own transportation, route sheets and special delivery items Metropolitan Ministries will host their from the Metropolitan Ministry Holiday annual drive-through Holiday Tent.

Tent pickup site and will use their own “We are incredibly grateful to partner vehicles to deliver food and joy this holiwith the Tampa Bay Network to End day season.

Hunger to continue homebound deliveries If you are interested in helping to this holiday season,” said Tim Marks, deliver meals and toys, please visit Metropolitan Ministries president and www.networktoendhunger.org/volunteer CEO. “We are preparing to serve thouto create a volunteer account and sign up sands of families, and many do not have to deliver. Routes will take about 60 minaccess to transportation. Together with utes to complete. the Tampa Bay Network the End Hunger, Donations are accepted at www.netwe can reach those facing immense worktoendhunger.org to help support the hardship,” added Marks.

Holidays On Wheels program. For more Registration for Holidays On Wheels information, please call 344-5837.

By Brad Stager

By Kathy L. Collins

Page 8

Volume 19, Issue 12

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

n, o i t p o d A Kitten liday Stroll Ho l a u t r i V e... r o M & ett

write a letter to the North Pole and hand deliver it to Santa, himself. The free drive thru event will take place on Saturday, Dec 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at The Learning Experience of FishHawk, 16232 Bayberry Glenn Dr.

Admission is free.

Bloomingdale High School Presents Holiday Under The Stars

The Bloomingdale High School music department will be presenting Holiday Under the Stars on Thursday, December 10 at 6 p.m. in the Bloomingdale High School football stadium. Students from Bloomingdale High School Band, Chorus, Orchestra and Crimson Guard are all excited to have the opportunity to showcase their talents for their families, friends and community.

There will also be vendors to help get your Christmas shopping done and purchase swag from the music department.

This is a free event and is sure to be lots of fun. Masks and social distancing will be required.

enn Jenny B com y b d e il er.

Comp yobserv @ospre tt e n n e jb

Cute Kitten Calendars Help Save Lives

Local animal charity A Kitten Place has just launched a cute calendar for 2021 featuring cats and kittens that they have saved over the past year. A Kitten Place specializes in rescuing the cats and kittens in most need and nurses them back Jewelry To The to health. Barry Rescue Shopping White, a kitten, Event was found laying Keel Farms is in a gutter and was unable to Barry White after he was nursed back to excited to host a health. fun jewelry event move due to to raise money for Community Pet extreme malnutrition. Due to A Kitten Project. The idea is that you bring a Place’s diligent care and unwillingness to piece of jewelry that you no longer give up on him, Barry slowly improved wear or pay a $5 entry fee, you then and is now a beautiful, young cat enjoyget to shop from the jewelry items ing life with his new owners. Calendars that are there. Gift wrapping services are $20 and can be purchased by emailand door prizes will also be available. ing akittenplace@gmail.com to place an All proceeds will go to Community Pet order. All proceeds directly benefit the Project. charity.

The event will be held on For additional information on A Kitten Sunday, December 6 from 11:30 a.m. at Place or to view any of its adoptable cats Keel Farms on 5202 Thonotosassa Rd. in or kittens, please visit akittenplace.org.

Plant City.

Kid Entrepreneur Expo And Holiday Market Presented By Tampa Bay HEAT

The Tampa Bay HEAT is presenting a Holiday Market and Mini Merchants Kid Entrepreneur Expo on Saturday, December 5 from 9 a.m-1 p.m. The market will be held at 1010 E. Brandon Blvd. in the Grace Bible Church parking lot. This is a great holiday event with lots of homemade crafts, baked goods and other items available from both adult and kid vendors.

Home Is Where The Heart Is Holiday Stroll Goes Virtual

A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay will be having its 15th annual Home is Where the Heart Is Patients celebrating Halloween at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.

Holiday Stroll event on Thursday, switched things up this year and hosted a December 10 at 7:00 p.m. with a prereverse trick-or-treat with doctors, nurses show at 6:30 p.m. Things will be a little and other caregivers delivering treats to different this year, as the event is going patients in their hospital virtual so you can rooms. “Being able to celspend the evening with ebrate Halloween while in it from the comfort of hospital brings about your own home. This some normalcy, which is special evening will truly important for our include experiences patients and their families,” provided by local said Child Life Team Executive Chef Michael Supervisor Hadley Trull.

Buttacavoli from the Patients were also able to award-winning restauchoose from dozens of Halloween cosrant Cena, Mixologist Roger McQueen tumes and participated in a virtual, from CW’s Gin Joint and Sommelier Halloween-themed bingo.

Krista Marie Schultz. Together, everyone will create decadent drinks, taste fabulous Bubbles’ Holiday Drive Thru cuisine and ring in the season while helpThe ing our community’s most vulnerable chilLearning dren.

Experience of Sponsorships start at $500 and all FishHawk items will be delivered locally prior to the invites you to evening. Tickets for the event are $25. join them for a Call Samantha Mellen, development bright holiday director of A Kid’s Place, at 381-3839 or celebration with email her at smellen@akidsplacetb.org Santa! Put on for more information on tickets and sponyour favorite sorship opportunities. festive attire,

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Makes Halloween A Treat For Hospitalized Kids

Halloween is a day that most kids look forward to, a day to dress up, play pretend and, of course, trick-or-treat.

When children are hospitalized during the holiday, their expectations remain the same, which is why each year the Child Life team at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital organizes a day of fun-filled activities for patients. Because of the additional safety measures in place due to COVID-19, the Child Life team

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Page 17

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Forgotten Angels Raffles Off Motorcycle To Provide Support For Aged Out Foster Youths

By Gwen Rollings

What Actually Happens Behind The Third Fairway Every Morning The world of golf course maintenance is one that the average golfer doesn’t much think about while they are out playing their round.

The only thought that may pop into their head is Bill Murray blowing up a golf course, trying to kill that one little gopher that’s ruining it. They just know the greens were cut that morning, the bunkers were raked, the fairways and tees were mowed and, of course, the cups were cut and flags were put out.

Before the first tee is ever put in the ground, the course has been a buzz for hours.

At Summerfield, our maintenance crew starts their day at 5 a.m. All those tee markers are moved and the greens are either cut or rolled, taking up to three hours to complete.

All those mowers need to be constantly maintained. Think about the fact your lawn is cut at about three inches.

Our greens are cut at .15 inches and fairways and tees at a half an inch.

Needless to say, keeping those blades sharp is not an easy undertaking and requires precision machines to help

maintain the equipment and the course.

That company that sprays your lawn once a month for bugs could never think about hand-spraying the 130 maintainable acres we have here at the club.

Most courses spend tens of thousands of dollars on insecticides, pesticides and fertilizers trying to keep those little blades of grass happy.

Golf courses pump an average of 350,000 gallons of water using 200 sprinkler heads every night to irrigate the course. That would be the equivalent to 13 residential pools worth of water.

Next time you tee off, take a moment and think about the countless hours that go into that tee box you’re standing on and the more than 100 acres that are maintained every week.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to email at golfguyosprey@gmail.com.

Jason Blanchard, PGA manages the 18-hole Summerfield Crossings Golf Club as the COO/General Manager.

The course opened in 1987 and was designed by Ron Garl. Visit https://summerfieldgc.com/

Cindy Tilley, sleeping in the president/founder of park. FAF provides Forgotten Angels of a light at the end of Florida (FAF), the foster care tunknows firsthand the nel. special birthday Youths are present that foster referred by friends, youths receive on associated organitheir 18th birthdays. zations and homes Statistics reveal that refusing to keep 30,000 youths age them after they age out of the foster out of the system. care system annualAlthough mainly ly and are ushered from Hillsborough through a one-way and Pinellas door that often leads Counties, other to homelessness, youths residing at lacking necessary FAF come from as life skills and opporfar away as tunities to succeed.

California. There Tilley, once in are few programs foster care herself, like Forgotten felt led to found Angels and Tilley FAF in 2015 as a would like to 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Congressman Ross Spano recently spent become more She said, time at the Forgotten Angels of Florida in established Brandon.

“Forgotten Angels throughout the is different in that we care for every sincountry. gle aspect of our residents’ successful Committed friends and supporters future. We provide employment opportu- can donate food, clothes, furniture nities, education and enrichment. Most and other items. Although COVID-19 importantly, we love, respect and care has eliminated many fundraising for them as if they are our own children, plans, donations can be hosted on not a case number or a dollar amount.”

Facebook. Weems Motor Co. For those aging out of foster care, (weemsmotorco.com/raffle) is offering tiny homes in Brandon are provided to a raffle to win a motorcycle, and in encourage independence, a sense of 2021 an actual brick-and-mortar self-worth, responsibility, self-esteem home valued at $350,000 will be rafand some privacy. An assessment is fled off. performed on arrival to determine medCurrently only housing boys, ical concerns, education level, legal locating a property and/or home for issues and former agencies to provide girls is on the horizon. appropriate assistance.

Tilley explained, “These kids need Tilley said residents are at various someone there for them who underlevels of independence. While some stands their struggles. They deserve can cook and clean, one youth said he so much more than they have been didn’t know how to tell time until he was given in ways of love and support.”

17. He had so few life skills that when For more information or ways to released from foster care on his birthdonate or volunteer, visit http://forgotday, he survived by panhandling and tenangelsflorida.org.

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Page 18

Volume 19, Issue 12

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

For Veterans Day, The Bridges Unveils New Wall Recognizing Its Residents Who Served

Hiking Spree Includes 25 Trails Across 20 County & State Parks, Preserves

Janet Noah has months before that had the pleasure of when the Allies and being the director of Germany put into community relations effect an armistice on of The Bridges for the the 11th hour of the past 10 years. In 11th day of the 11th those 10 years, she month. has gotten to know For that reason, To honor the veterans living at The Bridges, Noah and her staff have and love the resiNovember 11, 1918 is created an ‘Honoring Our Veterans dents at the facility. largely considered the Wall’. One of the veterans, Edward She has also grown Sillick (pictured), is 100 years old and end of ‘the war to end served in WWII with the U.S. Army. a fondness for the all wars’ and dubbed veterans who are residents there.

‘Armistice Day.’ In 1926, Congress official“I have come to know our veteran ly recognized it as the end of the war. In residents and have great respect for them 1938, it became an official holiday to and the sacrifices they made serving our honor veterans of World War I, but then country,” Noah said.

World War II and the Korean War hapTo honor the veterans living at The pened. Therefore, on June 1, 1954, at the Bridges, Noah and her staff have created urging of veterans service organizations, an ‘Honoring Our Veterans Wall’ that will Congress amended the commemoration be unveiled on this upcoming Veterans yet again by changing the word ‘armistice’ Day. to ‘veterans’ so the day would honor “We have 15 veterans currently American veterans of all wars. residing here,” Noah said. “We have Fifteen veterans will be featured on always honored our veterans with a spethe wall at The Bridges. “A photo of the cial program on Veterans Day. Veterans veteran in their uniform during their time deserve our honor and this wall, of service, their current photo, branch of ‘Honoring Our Veterans,’ is dedicated to military, years served and military rank will them and their service to our country. Six be featured,” Noah said. “It gives us great of our veterans served during WWII and pleasure to create this special wall for our of those six, one is a woman who joined veterans. It will continue to be our tradithe U.S. Navy and served as a WAVE, tion. As new resident veterans move in, Women Accepted for Volunteer we will add to this wall. I am excited for Emergency Service.” our veterans to see their special wall and Veterans Day was originally called especially for their families to see it.

Armistice Day, commemorating the end To learn more about The Bridges, of World War I. World War I officially visit www.bridgesretirement.com or conended when the Treaty of Versailles, tact Noah at 413-8900. The Bridges is which was signed on June 28, 1919. located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in However, the fighting ended about seven Riverview.

Petrified by the panThe trails are demic? Tired of politics? designed to offer someStressed from tracking thing for everyone, from yet another hurricane? hiking rookies to seaResidents looking for soned outdoor enthusisome relief—and a asts, with hikes rated great excuse to have from easy to strenuous. fun and get outside— Lengths range from less are encouraged to parthan a mile to more than ticipate in Hillsborough 6 miles. The environCounty’s Hiking Spree, mentally diverse sites which started earlier this are spread throughout month. the county and range The 2020-21 Hillsborough County The annual Hiking Hiking Spree kicks off this month. from neighborhood Spree began in 2016 parks like Carrollwood as a way to encourage people to Village Park to large preserves exercise, explore the outdoors with multiple habitats like the and experience nature through 1,100-acre Lake Dan Nature the county’s numerous parks Preserve. For the first time, and preserves. The Hiking this year’s list includes two Spree has grown in popularity state parks: Alafia River State each year, drawing thousands of Park and Little Manatee River participants and is expected to State Park. be particularly popular this year “The 2021 Hiking Spree as it offers residents a safe way to have isn’t just for walkers. Some trails are ideal fun outside during the pandemic. for bicycles, strollers, in-line skates or “Following COVID-19 precautions is wheelchairs. Studies show spending time a breeze when you’re walking or rolling in nature has many health benefits. along any of the 25 trails at 20 county Among them: it reduces stress, boosts parks and nature preserves selected for the immune system, increases energy the 2021 Hiking Spree,” said Hillsborough levels and improves sleep,” said Pratt.

County’s Todd Pratt.

The Hiking Spree is timed to take This year’s Hiking Spree trail list feaadvantage of the cooler, drier weather tures 25 trails at 20 locations throughout and to coincide with prime bird-watching the county. Complete at least eight before times. Participants are encouraged to Wednesday, March 31, 2021 and earn a post photos from their hikes using the patch, a medallion for a walking stick or a hashtag #TakeAHikeHC. dog bandana. One of the hikes can be at For more information and to register, a location of the participant’s choice that visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org and is not on the list. search for the Hiking Spree page.

By Libby Hopkins

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December 2020

Page 19

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Feeding Tampa Bay Hosts Mega Pantries In Area Including HCC Brandon

Tampa Electric Delays Opening Of Manatee Viewing Center Until January

The recent through locations to COVID-19 pandemic 10 to better serve has weakened our those who continue local economy and to struggle with food this has caused insecurity,” Oliviero many people from said. “With that in our community to mind, the team at become unemFTB has launched ployed. Feeding and is testing a new Tampa Bay (FTB) text program, FTBhas been at the foreFYI, to better confront of feeding those nect with those in Feeding Tampa Bay’s goal is to have who are food inseour care.”

Tampa Bay hunger-free by 2025. cure in the Tampa Feeding Tampa Bay community even before the pandem- Bay’s communications team is attending ic hit and it has continued to help those in Mega Pantries and personally introducing need since then. those it serves to the pilot program that The goal is to have Tampa Bay will be shared with them in both English hunger-free by 2025. One way the group and Spanish. is achieving this goal is by hosting Mega “Updates will include a peek into Pantries in the Tampa Bay area.

FTB culture that relates to those that “While the reopening of our state is we serve, recipes that support grocery on the horizon, the effects of COVID-19 distribution, additional food availability are far from over,” said FTB’s external and resources to help bring comfort in affairs officer, Shannon Hannon Oliviero. these challenges times and any “This crisis has nearly doubled the unem- changes in scheduling that may ployment rate in Florida and placed over occur,” Oliviero said. “We have stood 1.7 million food insecure individuals in our side by side with those that we serve care. To meet this increased need for all along, but now more than ever we food assistance, we have created Mega are committed to connect in a more Pantry distributions.” meaningful way as we all adjust to Mega Pantries are equipped to serve what the pandemic has created as our over 3,500 families at a time with 175,000 new normal.” pounds of food, which is 22 times larger To learn more, visit www.feedingthan their typical Mobile Pantry distributampabay.org. FTB hosts a Mega tions.

Pantry in Brandon on Thursdays from “Due to distributing nearly 60 million 4-6:30 p.m. at HCC Brandon at 10451 meals since the pandemic began, Nancy Watkins Dr. in the parking lot Feeding Tampa Bay has now expanded next to softball field on E. Columbus our Mega Pantry program from six driveDr.

Every fall/winter, gather in the federal when the water temand state-protected perature in Tampa Bay sanctuary. Visitors gets to 68 degrees or who want to visit can less, hundreds of still experience parts manatees gather in of the Manatee the warm water disViewing Center in charge canal of several ways.

Tampa Electric’s Big First, it has Bend Power Station in opened a brand-new Apollo Beach. Since online store. The 1986, visitors have store was opened flocked to the site to thanks to a partnersee the majestic sea ship with the cows up close.

University of Tampa This year, howevand the MacDonald For those who are looking forward to er, Tampa Electric has cooler weather and the chance to see Training Center. decided to delay the hundreds of manatees that annually Secondly, the opening of the award- gather in the discharge canal at Tampa Manatee Viewing Electric’s award-winning Manatee winning Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach, you Center has live web Viewing Center until cameras that became will have wait until at least January, 2021. The opening has been delayed functional as of January 2021. This due to health and safety concerns. move was made to November 1. Thirdly, help protect the health and safety of visiteachers and students who want to will be tors and the community. A tentative able to schedule ‘virtual field trips.’ The opening date of Wednesday, January 6, plan is to reveal this new and unique 2021 has been set. However, if pandemic opportunity in the coming weeks. conditions persist, the date may be When the Manatee Viewing Center delayed further. does reopen, you need to plan a trip.

“The health and safety of our visitors There is an educational building complete and our employees are our number one with colorful displays that immerse you in priority,” said Stan Kroh, manager of Land the world of the manatees and their habiand Stewardship Programs for Tampa tat. You can also stroll in the butterfly garElectric. “For hundreds of thousands of den, walk along the habitat loop trail and visitors who come to the Manatee visit the wildlife observation tower.

Viewing Center every winter, we look forThe Manatee Viewing Center is ward to seeing you when it is safe to do located at 6990 Dickman Rd. in Apollo so,” added Kroh.

Beach.

While the Manatee Viewing Center For more information, please remains closed, manatees will continue to visit www.tampaelectric.com/manatees.

By Libby Hopkins

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Page 20

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Congestion Relief Is Just Down The Road For Selmon Expressway Commuters

By Brad Stager

Commuters from the labeled Alternative 6, Brandon and SouthShore which provides noiseareas of Hillsborough reducing walls for the County rely on the Lee entire length of the projRoy Selmon Expressway ect and initially widens to provide smooth and the roadway to six lanes, speedy passage eventually widening to between their suburban eight lanes. Another homes and work or option, Alternative 2, inirecreational opportunities tially widens the roadway in Tampa. to the ultimate goal of The Lee Roy Selmon To keep things moveight lanes and provides Expressway provides a vital ing along the east-west for constructing sound transportation link between conduit, the Tampa Tampa and the suburbs to the barriers between the Hillsborough Expressway east. Officials are planning for expressway and adjaan expansion of the Authority (THEA), which expressway’s capacity to move cent neighborhoods only owns and operates the for portions of the project traffic. road, is planning ahead for expanding area. the number of travel lanes available.

THEA officials said public input and The South Selmon Project support is important in developing soluDevelopment and Environment Study is tions so that drivers will use the expressunderway to determine a course of way and not neighborhood roads. action to expand a 4.5-mile stretch of the According to Sue Chrzan, director of Selmon Expressway from just northeast public affairs and communications for of its terminus at Gandy Blvd. to Whiting THEA, the initial period for public comSt. in downtown Tampa. The study will ment has passed, but input is still needbe used to learn how neighborhoods, ed as the project moves forward. businesses and the natural environment “Any comments received will still will be affected by a transportation projbecome part of the study’s record and ect. will be considered by the study team,” According to information provided by Chrzan wrote in an email. “We will also THEA, transportation officials expect be holding a public meeting in early eight expressway traffic lanes will be 2021 which will provide another opportuneeded east of Willow St. to Whiting St. nity for the public to make comments.” by 2033 and eight lanes will be needed Details about the South Selmon for the length of the South Selmon projProject Development and Environment ect area by 2046.

Study can be found at southselInitial public input on a set of altermonpde.com, which also has a contact native solutions showed that the comportal. You can also email THEA at munity had a preference for the plan info@selmonstudies.com.

Volume 19, Issue 12

Hillsborough County Developing A Plan For Sustainability

By Brad Stager

Protecting natuof life. When communiral resources while ty members get promoting an active involved, we can creand enjoyable ate a shared vision lifestyle for people is with realistic goals and a sustainability balactions.” ancing act that Hillsborough becomes a formidaCounty is using a varible task when ety of methods to applied to an area as engage the public in large as Hillsborough examining issues relatCounty—1,266 ed to energy and water How residential and commercial develsquare miles—that opment is balanced against preserving usage, transportation natural resources and green spaces, needs and ways to proalso includes a diverse mix of urban, such as this spot on Springvale Ave. in mote a healthy quality Bloomingdale, is a concern that rural and suburban Hillsborough County is addressing in of life for residents. its sustainability action plan. communities within A series of open its borders. house webinars were held in November In order to assess the interests and and an online survey is available to resipriorities of residents and business owndents until Tuesday, December 1. ers when it comes to sustainability-related People can also hold guided diamatters, Hillsborough County is asking for logue sessions with friends, neighbors their ideas in creating a community susand family members to generate comtainability action plan that will help shape ments and ideas for consideration by policies and determine allocation of action plan developers. For these, the resources by the county. county provides sustainability-related According to Sheila McNamara, susinformation and instructions for the sestainability manager for Hillsborough sions which can be held in-person or County, input from residents is needed to online. Feedback from the communityensure the area continues to be an based dialogue sessions will be accepted attractive place to live. until Sunday, December 13. When com“It takes a community to sustain a pleted, the community sustainability community and Hillsborough County action plan will be presented to the Board wants to know what’s important to our of County Commissioners so it has residents and business owners,” she access to the information and can considsaid. er it as policies are developed.

“Many people love living and working For more information, please visit the in Hillsborough and have great ideas on Sustainability & Green webpage at hillsways to protect our resources and quality boroughcounty.org.

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March 2020

Volume 19, Issue 3

Ph: 657-2418

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

December 2020

Volume 19, Issue 12 Ph: 657-2418

53

Cali Cafe Celebrates Grand Reopening

Cali Cafe in Riverview opened its doors on January 9. Shortly after its grand opening, the coronavirus pandemic swept the nation, which resulted in the shutdown of restaurants and cafes.

With the Riverview community slowly reopening, it celebrated its grand reopening with much confidence and great goals for the future. Cali Cafe specializes in Colombian fare. It serves pastries, breads and savory snacks produced every morning by their personal chef, who has over 50 years of experience.

Cali Cafe is also known for its Colombian coffee that is exported directly from Colombia to its store.

Cali Cafe is located at 10010 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview, behind Kazbor’s Grille & Bar. For more information, visit https://calicafe-coffeeshop.business.site/, and you can reach it by calling 871-0791.

Brandon Regional Hospital Now Offers Alternative To Long-Term Blood Thinners

Brandon Regional Hospital is pleased to announce that the first hospital in Hillsborough County to offer the latest alternative to long-

they can help you to process your state card on that day. Lunch will be provided by Rosati’s Pizza.

For more information and to reserve a place please call Chill Cawfee on 324-9472.

Photo courtesy of Leighton DaCosta

term blood thinner medications with a newly designed left atrial appendage closure device. A first-of-its-kind, the device is a proven alternative to blood thinners for stroke risk reduction in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.

Phoenix House Florida Supports Those Struggling With Substance Use COVID-19 has disrupted routines, created the loss of in-person support meetings and counseling and forced the collapse of other support structures, all of which increase the risk of relapse and overdose. The forced isolation is especially danger-

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Herzing University Opens Nursing-Focused Campus In Tampa

The new Herzing University campus in Tampa.

ous to those struggling with addiction and recovery. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that drug overdoses have increased 30-40 percent since the initial outbreak of the virus. Phoenix House Florida is proud to support those struggling with substance use by providing outpatient and residential services.

For more information on the services Phoenix House Florida provides, call 328-3960 or visit www.phoenixfl.org.

Lunch-And-Learn At Chill Cawfee

Chill Cawfee along with ReLeafMD will be hosting a lunch-and-learn with Dr. Kelly King on Saturday, December 12 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at its 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. There will be a Q&A session covering subjects including medical marijuana and you, qualifying conditions, types of products, how it works and more. If you choose to proceed,

Herzing University, an accredited, private, nonprofit institution with locations in seven states, announced it will open a new campus in Tampa in early 2021. Herzing’s Tampa campus will offer several nursing programs and pathways that are modeled after the programs at the school’s Orlando campus. The new campus will be at 3632 Queen Palm Dr. in Tampa. The more-than-30,000 sq. ft. campus will feature modern classrooms and common areas as well as state-of-theart nursing skills labs and simulation learning technology.

Enrollment is open immediately, with general education courses beginning in January 2021 and core nursing classes starting later in the year. For more information about Herzing University Tampa, visit www.herzing.edu/tampa or email tpa-info@herzing.edu.

Continued on Next Page

Page 26

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Business Column Continued...................

Pamper Yourself At CJ Aesthetics

Chelsea Johnson is the owner of CJ Aesthetics in Riverview and is a licensed aesthetician with over 20 years of experience and advanced training in chemical peels, dermaplaning, dermalinfusion and microneedling.

Johnson is dedicated to making flawless skin possible with medical-grade treatments, and as a mother of three boys, she knows the importance of achieving amazing results but also the feeling of being pampered. Chelsea loves to educate clients and help them feel comfortable with individualized programs that bring out the best in their appearance as well as their overall skin health.

CJ Aesthetics is located at 12950 U.S. Hwy. 301, Ste. 137 in Riverview and is open by appointment only. Visit cjaesthetic.com to view the services she provides and to make an appointment or call 269-365-3359.

Mandola’s Italian Kitchen Opens In Riverview

Mandola’s Italian Kitchen recently opened at 12926 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview and celebrated with a ribboncutting attended by the founders of the Mandola’s fast-casual concept, Damian and Trina Mandola, and close family members and friends. Mandola’s Italian Kitchen is an authentic Italian grocery and eatery that exudes great food, a bustling atmosphere and warm hospitality.

For more information, visit https://mandolas.com/ or call 7553587.

Pepin Academies Receives Free Antimicrobial Cleaning Services

Bio-Safe Surfaces and partner Pro Clean USA are providing free deep cleaning and sanitation services for all three of Pepin Academies’ campuses for the entire 2020-2021 school year.

By Jenny Bennett

The services are in response to Pepin Academies’ call for donations as part of its Adopt-aClassroom and Adopt-a-Student campaigns. “We saw the news that Pepin Academies Foundation is launching fundraising campaigns to help students and teachers, and it was an easy decision for both our companies,” said Michael Fineo, Bio-Safe Surfaces’ chief executive officer. “This will create and maintain a safer environment for the entire administration, teachers, staff and, of course, for all of the special needs students and their families.”

To learn more about Bio-Safe Surfaces and its services, visit www.bio-safesurfaces.com.

Business Retreat For Women

Local author and entrepreneur Shannon Carlton invites you to spend a weekend with women entrepreneurs for her annual Business Vision Board Retreat.

From FridaySunday, January 15-17, time will be dedicated to growing businesses together and rediscovering your visions for your professional lives. Time will be spent creating systems, processes and content, as well as diving deep to find your value proposition and new ways to better your life. A mastermind session will give you the opportunity to bring your challenges to the group and get input from the other minds in the room. After the sessions, you will create your vision board with all the fantastic things you have learned, and finally, Sunday morning will be spent learning to create healthy rituals and implement healthy habits so that you walk into 2021 with a FUEL-filled (fulfilling, uncomplicated, exciting and lucrative) business.Visit https://www.shannoncarlton.com/business-vision-board-retreat/.

Southwest Florida Rheumatology Updates Office

Southwest Florida Rheumatology is excited to announce its newly renovated and upgraded Riverview office at 11954 Boyette Rd. The space has been redesigned to promote a calm, therapeutic environment for patient care. It is also pleased to introduce its clinical team of registered nurses, Jennifer and Raquel, at both the Riverview and Sun City Center locations, who will be using their years of experience to provide outstanding infusion and outpatient rheumatology experiences.

To schedule an appointment, call 672-2243. Visit swflrheum.com for

The Flying Locksmiths Celebrates Four-Year Anniversary

Michael and Tammy Broussard, owners of The Flying Locksmiths, recently celebrated their four-year anniversary. The Flying Locksmiths has been installing confidence since 1946 and its technicians are well-versed in a large array of commercial security work. It offers access control, doors, intercoms, locks, safes, COVID-19 solutions and more, along with commercial service and dedication to customer service, commitment to quality workmanship and passion for identifying the newest industry technology.

The Flying Locksmiths is located at 156 E.

Some gifts are too big for boxes...

Volume 19, Issue 12

Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. For more information, visit https://flyinglocksmiths.com, and you can reach them by calling 716-5341.

New Riverview Location Wendy’s Restaurant Opens

A brand-new Wendy’s location just opened at 3906 S. U.S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview on November 14. To celebrate, the first 100 cars who made a purchase in the drive-through received a coupon book to redeem for a free breakfast sandwich every week for a year. The restaurant was built using an innovative interior and exterior design which is part of an ongoing effort to provide an enhanced customer experience. “Not only will we serve up the most delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner, the contemporary look and feel of the restaurant is sure to bring customers back time and time again,” said Kevin Zarcone, director of area operations for Wendy’s.

December 2020

Page 27

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

AJ’s Fine Wines & Liquor

Whether a bride idea that they are unitand groom’s wedding ing not only as a couplans include a large ple, but as a family. outdoor wedding or “The bride and an intimate at-home groom can see their affair, their special story differently, so I day wouldn’t be comlike to get both sides of plete without one key the story,” said player—the wedding Giordano. One couple Marriages get off to a flawless start with Mimi Giordano of It’s Official officiant. completed the bio sheet Wedding Officiant Services.

Mimi Giordano, and the bride told me owner of It’s Official Wedding Officiant they met at a bonfire at the YMCA. The Services, helps couples bring their love groom said they met in the woods behind story to life by writing a personalized certhe YMCA. “You can see why I need both emony that reflects who they are as indisides of the story,” she joked. viduals and who they will be as a couple.

Bride Alexandra Karones Seigler “I weave your love story into your knew shortly after meeting Giordano that ceremony, not only for you to cherish but she would be the perfect officiant for her for your family and friends to enjoy,” said ceremony.

Giordano, who has been uniting couples “She met us over coffee and doughfor more than 22 years. She specializes nuts at a local doughnut shop and we in all types of ceremonies, including didn’t feel rushed,” said Seigler. “She was elopements, interfaith, religion-specific, completely genuine and took the time to nondenominational, civil union and really get to know us.” renewal of vows.

Giordano kept her involved in the Giordano’s ceremonies aren’t cookie- entire process of writing the ceremony but cutter; no two ceremonies are identical. also added professional touches to everyShe and her team work closely with the thing. The result was an unforgettable couple to plan a meaningful ceremony. ceremony.

The bride and groom separately answer “She made us feel like she had fact sheets about how their love story known us our entire lives,” she said. “She began, allowing for Giordano to weave was absolutely fantastic.” these stories into the ceremony along Giordano said that with more brides with other pieces to create a narrative that and grooms choosing a private and intiresonates on a personal level with the mate ceremony because of COVID-19, it couple and the guests. If the bride or has put the focus back on the ceremony groom bring children to the marriage, she itself. “It is the reason why you’re having makes sure to make them an intricate the party, after all,” she said. part of the ceremony by speaking words For more, visit www.itsofficialwedof praise to each of them, instilling the dings.com or call 545-8128.

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Page 28

Volume 19, Issue 12

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Trilogy Dive Center Provides Scuba Diving Certification Classes For Underwater Experiences

By Michelle Caceres With more than confined body of water under 1,350 miles of coastthe supervision of an instrucline, warm weather tor and, finally, applying the and the only living skills learned in the required coral reef in the continumber of open-water trainnental United States, ing dives with an instructor.

Florida is the perfect Trilogy Dive Center provides place to dive beneath all the equipment, including gulf or ocean waters masks, fins and snorkels, so for views that can nothing needs to be puronly be described as chased prior to class. magical.

Trilogy Dive Center has Become scuba-certified through Trilogy Dive Center and enter an partnered with Brandon Trilogy Dive underwater magical world.

Center Owner Mike Sports and Aquatic Center Massaro described diving as an escape (BSAC) to offer scuba certification and a from the demands and pressures of life. scuba club for BSAC members. Scuba “Every time I go diving, whatever stress camps are scheduled for spring/summer I’m feeling evaporates when I get underin 2021 at BSAC. Scuba camps are water,” he said. “That’s the magic of weeklong adventures for those 10 to 17 scuba diving.” years old and include scuba certification.

In addition to being a stress reliever, Trilogy provides scuba certification courshe said diving is an opportunity to see es for groups and also private courses. In things most people only see in pictures or addition to scuba certification, Trilogy Dive videos. “It’s the chance to explore a world Center is a Divers Alert Network (DAN) we’re not used to being in, a world full of training center that offers emergency dive marine life, historic shipwrecks and medicine training. Trilogy Staff Instructors more.” are experienced paramedics and Diving Whether scuba diving is something Medical Technicians. Its retail center proon a family member’s Christmas wish list vides divers access to equipment from or your own personal bucket list, Massaro brands including Atomic, Zeagle, OTS can make those dreams a reality. The and Spare Air. Trilogy Dive Center team offers certifica“We train fire departments and law tion for recreational, technical, scientific enforcement officers to dive,” said and public safety divers.

Massaro. “Let us teach your family how to The certification process includes safely navigate the underwater world.” completing a Scuba Diving International Contact Trilogy Dive Center at 425(SDI) online scuba course, completing in3500 to sign up for a certification class water skill development training in the today or visit www.trilogyscuba.com for safety of a swimming pool or a similarly more information.

EXPIRES: 9/30/2020

December 2020

Page 29

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Time To Consider Magnet And Career School Options For 2021-22

Clothes To Kids Looks To The Community For Support For Kids For Clothing

The Hillsborough on a space-available basis.

County School District’s Transportation is not providmagnet school, career and ed by the school district to technical education (CTE) out-of-area students. and school choice proThe school choice grams offer students a varioption is also available to ety of focused educational families without signing up opportunities with which to for a CTE program. In pursue their academic and those cases, the option is professional aspirations. available to students enterThe district’s first window ing grades K-11 on a for families to apply to space-available basis at these programs for the schools outside of their 2021-22 school year attendance areas. No Even during a pandemic, opened on November 2 Hillsborough County Public school district transportaSchools students have the tion is provided for school and continues through opportunity to safely explore choice.

Friday, December 11. their talents through magnet Families will be notified According to Bob Cox, and school choice options. about acceptance in late the district’s supervisor January 2021. of magnet programs, The district’s mag“Our choice and magnet net school program prooptions are some of the vides instruction at specmost dynamic and rigorified elementary, middle and high schools ous programs within our school district. that is theme-based, emphasizing areas We have worked diligently to ensure our such as performing and communication families will have an informative and arts, International Baccalaureate studies, enjoyable experience as they explore technology like robotics and game develnew educational paths through our disopment as well as business and health trict’s 80-plus magnet and choice prosciences. Transportation to magnet grams.” schools is provided by the school district.

For more information and to apply for CTE programs are areas of focus at a magnet or choice program, visit hillsbormany neighborhood middle and high oughschools.org, where you can also schools, ranging, for example, from autoparticipate in online events such as the motive maintenance and light repair at Magnet: Vision 2020 Exploration Night Brandon High School to web developpresentation on Thursday, December 3 ment at Newsome High School. Access from 6-7 p.m. Representatives from magto these choice schools and programs net schools will talk about their programs are available to students entering grades and answer questions during the event, K-11 out of the schools’ attendance areas which requires online registration.

The mission of the car, ran into a local local nonprofit Clothes store and bought a To Kids is to provide purple coat in just the new and quality used right size. When she clothing to low-income dropped off the coat, or in-crisis school-age she was touched by children, free of the deep gratitude of charge. The organizathe little girl, who tion envisions a comlooked up at Marie munity in which every with her smiling big school-age child has brown eyes and quality clothing so that offered a huge hug. he or she may attend “This story stuck school with the confiwith both Marie and Clothes To Kids recently held its dence and selfShoetober event, and it was a huge Terry,” Jacobs said. success. esteem needed to “When Marie and achieve academic success.

Jode Eye, the other co-founder of the The group recently held its organization, sat at Jode’s kitchen table in ‘Shoetober’ event, and it was a huge suc- the spring of 2002, Marie told Jode about cess. this little girl and the purple coat. They “It was a neat initiative,” said Clothes decided they had to do something. They to Kids’ executive director, Jennifer had to do something about children who Jacobs. “Shoetober was a monthlong col- didn’t have the clothing they needed. The lection drive for new and gently used purple coat became a symbol to them shoes. Each year, Clothes To Kids proand was the inspiration and motivation vides more than 13,000 pairs of shoes to they needed to get this mission started. kids in our communities.”

With a purple coat and a kitchen table, Marie McClung, a co-founder, volunClothes To Kids was born.” teered in her sister Terry’s classroom on a Jacobs hopes the Riverview commuweekly basis back in the early 2000s. nity will help them bring clothes and Marie was familiar with all of the children shoes to the children and families who in the classroom and was always ready will need them in the upcoming holidays. to jump in and help with anything her sis“We will distribute more than 13,000 ter needed for her students. On a rare pairs of shoes this year, so it’s critical that cold Florida morning, Marie’s sister called our community knows that we need help her and said she had a little girl in her with them,” Jacobs said. classroom that would not be able to go Visit www.clothestokids.org or call outside for gym class without a jacket.

Jacobs at 616-6430. Clothes To Kids is She asked Marie if she would hurry to the located at 5011-H W. Hillsborough Ave. in store and buy a coat. Marie jumped in the Tampa.

By Brad Stager

By Libby Hopkins

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Page 30

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Boy Scouts Of America Presents Badge Of Honor To Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

By Brandon Kathman

The Hillsborough est honor, the Eagle County Sheriff’s Scout rank.

Office received the “The lessons I Boy Scouts of learned as I became America’s an Eagle Scout have Participating helped me all my Citizenship Award life,” Scott said. “I for service to the want to thank all of community at a virthe volunteers, all of tual event on the troop leaders October 26. and all of the law “We are enforcement that extremely excited to help our Scouts. showcase the work Keep up the good of law enforcework, and never ment…who have stop pursuing your been instrumental in dreams.” helping all of us stay According to the safe and move Greater Tampa Bay through uncharted Area Council, the circumstances,” the Hillsborough County council’s director of Sheriff’s Office and field service, the Boy Scouts of Dwayne Jones, said.

America maintain a “How we work longstanding parttogether makes our nership through the communities better.”

Law Enforcement The Participating Explorers Program.

Citizenship Award A separate branch “recognizes the selfof Scouting, less service of local Explorers’ posts are heroes,” including dedicated to vocalaw enforcement tional learning. For canines, Jones said. law enforcement Senator Rick Scott programs like and former Tampa Hillsborough’s Post Bay Buccaneer 238, this consists of Ronde Barber also experiential activimade appearances ties and competition. during the program, Jones concluded thanking both the the program by asksheriff’s office and ing viewers to local Scouting volSenator Rick Scott, football player donate to support Ronde Barber and Director of Field local programs like unteers.

Service Dwayne Jones participated “Trying times in a virtual recognition of service to Exploring and tradiprioritize what is the community from the Boy Scouts tional Scouting. of America to the Hillsborough important and now, According to the County Sheriff’s Office last month. more than ever, Greater Tampa Bay tying as many threads together for a Area Council, this will help common cause is essential,” Barber Scouting’s districts and properties told viewers. weather what has been a challengBarber expressed a sense of ing year for all nonprofit organizashared obligation between voluntions. teer-led programs like the Boy “Through all of this, we are Scouts and law enforcement as ‘ser- excited to know that many of the vants of the public’ to better the tenets of Scouting such as helping lives of young people in local comour neighbors, checking in on those munities. in need and putting others before During his appearance, Scott ourselves has strengthened our referenced his own time in Scouting. sense of community and civic duty,” He remembered signing up for the Jones said. “Participating citizenship Cub Scouts in the second grade and is at the foundation of the lessons eventually receiving Scouting’ highlearned in the Scouting programs.”

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Volume 19, Issue 12

December 2020

Page 31

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Take Cross Bay Ferry To Visit The Newly Redesigned St. Petersburg Pier

By Michelle Colesanti

The Cross Bay Ferry the Pier overlooking the has returned to Tampa Bay. bay is Doc Ford’s Rum Bay The Provincetown III, here & Grille. This 10,000 sq. ft. from its seasonal Boston-torestaurant/bar focuses its Provincetown runs in menu on Florida fare and Massachusetts, will continue flavors from throughout the service here until April 30, Caribbean.

2021.

At the end of the Pier, Excited to hear about the the four-story structure ferry’s return, my husband houses a few restaurant and I, along with close choices. On the ground Kids can enjoy the playground area The Cross Bay Ferry has returned to friends in our COVID-19 buband the beach when visiting the Pier. level is the Driftwood Cafe, the Tampa Bay area and is making trips between Tampa and St. ble, recently took the ferry to a casual walkup spot offerPetersburg every day, except Monday St. Petersburg. We were ing ice cream and snacks. and Tuesday, through the end of April happy that masks were Enjoy a picnic here while 2021. required while on board. Two overlooking the water.

The cost is $10 Janet Echelman’s net sculpture, floors accommodate passengers. The We had dinner at Teak, each way for adults and Bending Arc, brilliantly lights up the upstairs section of the ferry is all outdoors $8 for seniors 65-plus, a fine dining restaurant, Pier each evening. (though partially covered). The day we which was a wonderful treat. motion with the wind. military and college stutook the journey, it was not crowded, so it There are a lot of great seafood choices To me, it was most dents. Children under 4 was easy to social distance. as well as other options. I had the mahi impressive after dark. are free.

On the Tampa side, the ferry leaves fish and chips with seasoned fries, which At the entrance of the Pier, you can Once you arrive in St. Petersburg, just outside of the Tampa Convention was delicious. It’s located on the fourth stop for a meal or drink while overlooking there is plenty to do downtown. Over the Center on the Riverwalk. The trip across floor, and the views are fantastic. It will the marina. Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro’s years, we have watched this city morph the bay takes just under an hour and is make you feel as if you are mini-vacationwraparound deck offers great views for into a vibrant community. The Pier, which very relaxing. It crosses the channel out ing on a cruise ship. On the rooftop, kick lunch, dinner or weekend brunch. was rebuilt after years of discussion on of Tampa between Harbor and Davis back and enjoy Pier Teaki’s classic tiki As you stroll onto the Pier, there are how it should look, recently opened in Islands, so there are great views of the bar. kiosks with vendors set up selling mostly July. It is a short walk from where the homes along the water that you can’t see ferry disembarks and you can’t miss it.

If walking is an issue, there is a free touristy items. That area is shaded and from the interior. If you are lucky, you may tram with four stops along the length of possibly protected from inclement weathEncompassing 26 acres, there is a also catch a glimpse of a dolphin. The the Pier. There is so much more, but you er. Beyond that there was a great play lot of space to maneuver and social disferry arrives in St. Petersburg across from tance, as is always a concern to us durwill have to visit and see for yourself. area for youngsters and a beach where North Straub Park.

We enjoyed walking and taking in the you can sit, relax and even swim; a great ing the COVID-19 crisis. Masks are Limited food and a full-service bar whole ambiance of downtown St. family destination. It is right behind Spa requested outdoors and required at are available on board. There is no ferry Beach Bistro, an outdoor cafe serving lim- Petersburg before settling back on the indoor venues throughout the Pier. service on Monday or Tuesday, and servferry for the return trip. ited items, including design-your-own You will notice immediately, even ice is limited on Wednesday and Visit https://stpetepier.org/ for more pizza. Vendors were also selling cans of before you reach the Pier, a net sculpture Thursday. From Friday to Sunday, morninformation. beer and hard seltzers. What impressed called Bending Arc, which Tampa native ing-through-evening departures will give For more information tickets and me most was how nice this area all ties Janet Echelman has created. Bending you enough time to enjoy a leisurely visit departure times, visit www.thecrossbaytogether in its simplicity.

Arc measures at 76 ft. at its highest point on the other side of the bay. ferry.com.

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Page 32

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Tampa Bay Rum Company Still Offering Tastings, Tours & Making Essential Hand Sanitizer

By Libby Hopkins

Tampa Bay Rum theft while it was shut Company located in down during the panYbor City was created demic. The highs by chiropractor Samuel were that it joined Myers who felt forces with Coppertail Tampa’s pirates needBrewing Co., also in ed their own locally Ybor City, to create, made rum. sell and donate hand The legendary sanitizer to the Tampa pirate, José Gaspar, Bay community and still lives in residents’ its local businesses. hearts, but his rum “Coppertail had a was lost to time, forclot of keg beer that ing the fine citizens of wasn’t going to get Tampa to endure rums sold and they asked shipped from distant us if we wanted to disTampa Bay Rum Company located in till it to make hand lands while celebratYbor City was created by chiropractor sanitizer,” Myers said. ing his spirit every Samuel Myers.

January during Tampa Bay Rum Gasparilla. But what was lost has been Company recently donated hand sanitizer found, and Myers and his team are happy to the Center Place Fine Arts and Civic to now provide Tampa’s own Gaspar’s Association of Brandon to assist in the and Gasparilla Rums. center’s reopening efforts.

“I wanted to create this because Myers and his team want to make Tampa is pirate-crazy; we have all the their products Tampa Bay’s rum of beautiful beaches where rum drinks are choice. sold, so I was able to trademark “I want Tampa Bay and Gasparilla to Gasparilla Rum and we’ve been making have their very own rum,” Myer said. rum since 2018,” Myers said. “We have “Gasparilla is the biggest pirate festival in various rum products, a sugar canethe world and the third largest parade in based vodka and some barrel-aged prod- America, so what’s more important to a ucts.” pirate than rum? I want us to be the rum The barrel-aged products Tampa Bay of choice when they order a rum cocktail Rum Company released in 2019 won at a local bar or restaurant.”

American Distilling Institute’s ‘Best Rum’ To learn more about the Tampa Bay in category and class.

Rum Company’s products or to schedule The recent pandemic has given the a tour and tasting at the distillery, visit local rum company some highs and lows www.gasparillarum.com or call 284-5485. over the last few months. The lows The tasting room and distillery are located included some issues with vandalism and at 2102 E. 4th Ave. in Ybor City.

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Volume 19, Issue 12

December 2020

Walk Thru Bethlehem Changes Format But Keeps Christmas Spirit Alive Since 1986, Kings Avenue Baptist Church has been hosting a festive, joy-filled Christmas tradition that transports guests directly to the ancient city of Bethlehem as it existed during the time of Jesus’ birth. Celebrating its 34th year, Walk Thru Bethlehem (WTB) is normally an interactive event where attendees experience the miracle of Christmas, but this year, due to the pandemic, the church has had to make some changes to keep everyone safe while sharing the story.

This free community event normally draws more than 6,000 visitors each year.

Typically, guests are transported during a 30-minute guided tour through authentic settings of the ancient city of Bethlehem, including actors in time-period clothing, sets, scenery and animals. More than 225 volunteers each evening would become the townspeople of Bethlehem, populated by Roman guards, weavers, blacksmiths, bakers, carpenters, potters and shepherds. The tour normally concludes with a visit to the manger with Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus.

City Director and Committee Member for WTB Tracy Hoyt said that the committee decided that because of concerns surrounding COVID-19, that this year’s format would need to change.

“We are not having our traditional WTB this year, but we are doing a series

Page 33

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

By Kelly Valdes

at our church,” said Hoyt. “Each Sunday, we will have a portion of the city set up and the pastor will go into deeper detail of that part of the story. The stage will be set for each service representing part of the city of WTB with actors in costume and participating with Pastor John as he delves in the series.”

Hoyt understands that many families have made WTB part of their family’s holiday tradition for years.

“We have distance seating in-person worship on Sundays, but we also offer YouTube and livestreaming on Facebook,” she said. “We have an overflow space in our chapel so we can make sure everyone is di stanced correctly if that is needed.”

The series will start on Sunday, December 6 and conclude on Sunday, December 27. Services take place at 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. On December 6, topics will include Census, Tax, Oil and Wine; on December 13, the subject will be Fish, Salt, Bread and Synagogue; December 20 will be titled Inn, Carpenter, Cloth Dyer and Pottery; the Christmas Eve service on December 24 will focus on the Shepherds and Manger; and, finally, December 27 will be titled Wise Men, Cross and Tomb.

For the schedule of the modified version of Walk Thru Bethlehem, visit www.bethekingsavenue.com or call 6849453. Kings Avenue Baptist Church is located at 2602 S Kings Ave. in Brandon.

Toy Drive Hosted By Lighthouse Gospel Mission For Children In Need

By Tatiana Ortiz

Spreading Since some holiday Lighthouse cheer might look Gospel slightly different Mission’s estabthis year for lishment on some families.

December 12, Lighthouse 1952 by J.A. Gospel Mission Lennard, it has and its ministry, continued proOperation Hope viding an impact of Florida, on the lives of strives to bring thousands all smiles through assisacross the Tampa tance of a toy drive Bay area. and much more.

Lennard startAll of the toys ed the mission as donated will be distriban encouragement uted during the annual to the homeless in Christmas of Hope downtown Tampa A child receiving a toy from last year’s by offering them a event, which is free to Christmas of Hope event. the community, on hot meal and Friday, December 18 at the Lighthouse clothing. Due to the growth of Gospel Mission in Riverview at 6 p.m.

Lighthouse Gospel Mission’s ministry, it Lighthouse Gospel Mission later relocated to its current spot.

Development Manager Joelle Allen “Overall, we want to others to know shared her input about the toy drive. that we are here trying to make a differ“We are trying to collect the toys for ence within the surrounding community,” children ages 2 to 10 and make sure their Allen said.

Christmas is blessed,” Allen said.

Those interested in contributing can Operation Hope of Florida is a food drop off the toys Monday through Friday ministry that distributes more than 2.4 mil- from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Lighthouse lion pounds per year to families in need. It Remnant Thrift Store. The deadline to serves 2,105,497 people annually. donate is on Friday, December 11.

During Christmas of Hope, attendees For more information, visit will receive a hot meal, a food box and www.lighthousegospelmission.org or toys for kids. The overall goal of this toy check out its Facebook page, drive is to fulfill the mission through the www.facebook.com/lightlove of Jesus to serve those who are housegospelmission. It is located at hungry, hurt and addicted in communities 7211 S. 78th St. in Riverview. Call 677within its four avenues of ministry.

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Page 34

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

Photo courtesy of the Bloomingdale girls basketball team

Bloomingdale Bulls Girls Basketball Gear Up For Season With District Final Hopes The 2020 Bloomingdale Lady Bulls are looking to build off one of the best seasons in school history last year, wherein they won 19 games and made it to their second straight district final.

The team’s toughest task will be replacing the productivity and leadership of two senior 1,000-point career scorers, Nya King and Erin Leigh. They are off to a good start, beating Robinson High School 50-33 in their home opener.

The young group will feature six returning players, none of which are seniors, including sophomore Melody Womack, junior captain Kaylie Lewis, sophomore Eva Knauer, sophomore Aleissa Perez, sophomore Kyrstin Wolff and junior captain Emily Seltzer.

The Lady Bulls also have four newcomers, including an Armwood transfer, junior point guard Angelina Aberin. Aberin brings added experience and toughness to the program, having played a big role in her freshman season, in which Armwood made it to the regional finals.

Then there are junior Telicia Comer; freshman dual-sport athlete Faith Wilson, who also plays volleyball; and sophomore Cennya Gaskin, who transferred from

The 2020 Lady Bulls’ motto is ‘Together’.

Texas. Gaskin dominated in her November 17 debut against Robinson, recording a double-double (19 points and 14 rebounds).

Ten-year Head Coach Joel Bower is looking forward to incorporating his new players to the team. He thinks that team chemistry is a strong suit off the court,

and he hopes that transfers quickly on the court as well while they continue to learn how to play together as a cohesive unit. Bower thinks that his team will have more balance and versatility when it comes to scoring, and that it can come from anybody on any given night. He is happy with his team’s depth, and thinks

they have a lot of potential.

“I think one through 10, we are better than we were last year,” said Bower. “The six kids who were here last year all got better. They worked hard in the off-season and improved. We have added four new kids to the mix as well. We miss our seniors from last year for sure, two 1,000point scorers are hard to replace, but I think we are deeper and more talented overall.”

Junior captain Kaylie Lewis is looking forward to team bonding and hopes that it will help translate to a district championship. “I really enjoy the family environment that has been created here,” said Lewis.

Junior captain Emily Seltzer is excited to help grow the team identity throughout the season. “I can’t wait for us to build trust within each other and continue the family bond that this program has,” said Seltzer.

The team’s motto this year is ‘Together.’ “We are in this together,” said Bower. “These 10 kids are starting to buy into ‘we over me’ mindset. This is a motto that we are trying to really live by here over the next three months.”

December 2020

Page 35

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com

GLADIATOR DIESEL IS A WELCOME ADDITION TO JEEP LINEUP

conditions such as traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation and water fording. Its skid plates will protect the front, transfer case and fuel tank.

The cabin sticks to the original Jeepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s handy capability with 103 cubic feet of interior room. Storage cubicles are scattered throughJust a year ago, Jeep Tires: 255/70R18 all-season out, including a bin under Wheelbase: 137.3 inches had dispatched over its the rear seat floor, as are Length: 218 inches then all-new, gas-powered several 120-volt outlets. The Width: 73.8 inches Gladiator Rubicon to us. instrument cluster is simply Height: 75 inches Recently, we had the laid out with rounded Suspension: independent fiveopportunity to test the speedometer, tachometer link coil system diesel version of what is Steering: electro-hydraulic and temperature, fuel, oil the only four-door 4x4 conand volt gauges. Also power-assist vertible in the market. Like included are the dual AC, Weight: 4,742 pounds to climb, trail and crawl, or Tow capacity: 6,500 pounds manual tilt/telescopic steerhaul tons of cargo, or go Fuel capacity: 18.3 gallons ing column, cloth seats, sixwater fording? In an openway manual driver and fourCity: 22 mpg air vehicle? Then this way front passenger seats, Highway: 28 mpg should be your ride! push-button start, 7-inch Base price: $40,395 Under the hood of the Price with options: $61,730 Uconnect touchscreen, body-on-frame 2021 Website: www.jeep.com leather steering wheel, lockGladiator sits the optional able console/door armrest 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6 engine ($4,000), and a 5-foot cargo bed. A roll-up tonneau putting out 260 horsepower at 3,600 rpm cover is available for $595. and 442 pounds-feet of torque at 2,800 Standard safety features are the dual rpm. The go-anywhere capable vehicle, front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, with high and low transfer case gears, is four-wheel anti-lock brakes, electronic stamated to a typical eight-speed auto gearbility, traction and trailer-sway control, antibox. roll system, rearview camera, hill-start Our test drive, the Overland, was a assist, tire pressure monitoring system and standout dual three-piece hardtop and a daytime running lights. soft-top with removable doors, exposed Except for its slightly loud road noise hinges, fold-down windshield, front/rear and engine, diehard Jeep aficionados will hooks and tubular side steps. That this is a love the amazing talents of the rugged Jeep is even more apparent from the tradi- Gladiator. Simultaneously, the quintessentional seven-slot, keystone-shaped grille, tial SUV with over seven decades of tradiflanked by rounded halogen headlights, tion is adept on neighborhood streets. Its square tail lamps, and a flat, clamshell off-road and on-road prowess makes the hood reaching down to trapezoidal fender diesel version a remarkable and muchflares. The 4x4 is designed for off-road needed addition to the Jeep roster.

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Page 36

Volume 19, Issue 12

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Grace Manor At Hunters Creek: Where Residents Are Made To Feel Like Family

By Amy Schechter

The decision to more extensive make assisted livservices, Grace ing arrangements Manor will treat you for yourself or loved with care, dignity ones can be diffiand privacy so you cult. When everyand your family can day tasks seem make the best decioverwhelming or sions. It has innofrightening, it is vative housing soluimportant to seek tions so all seniors out a caring comfeel loved and celemunity who can brated. come around you Grace Manor for support. You offers an array of deserve a place on-site services Grace Manor residents enjoy bingo night. from three gourmet where, with the right amount of care, you can live life to meals daily to visiting healthcare its fullest as independently as possible. providers, such as primary care, podiaAs a resident at Grace Manor at try, and other practitioners like physical, Hunters Creek, you will be part of a occupational and speech therapy servicfamily. es, laboratory and diagnostic services Grace Manor’s team of local profes- as available via local providers. There is sionals creates a warm, family-focused a customized activity schedule each environment. Rather than a national month offering events for a variety of conglomerate, Florida-based Mainstay hobbies, including music, quilting, garSenior Living owns and operates Grace dening, games, and exercise.

Manor and believes in creating real rela- Additionally, there is always something tionships between the staff and the resi- to celebrate at Grace Manor, and live dents. Executive Director Sheryl Vitelli musical entertainment, holiday festivispoke with such love when describing ties, birthday parties and worship servicGrace Manor’s philosophy of care: “Our es regularly take place throughout the staff is warm, inviting and welcoming. year.

For us, they’re not residents, they are For more information or to schedule family. From the moment they walk in a tour today, call 743-3701 or visit the door, they are our loved ones, and www.gracemanorhunterscreek.com. You we treat them as such.” can also find it on Facebook at Whether you’re an active senior www.facebook.com/gracemanorhunterseeking help with daily tasks like meals, screek. Grace Manor at Hunters Creek is housekeeping and self-care or require located at 765 W. Grant St. in Plant City.

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December 2020

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

YMCA Of Tampa Bay Named Business Journal ‘2020 One Tampa Bay’ Honoree

Staff Report

The YMCA of 8,000 senior memthe Tampa Bay bers to prevent recently received social isolation and recognition for the lift their spirits. The help given to the YMCA team also community during produced virtual the early days of resources to help the pandemic. The community memgroup was named bers stay active, a ‘2020 One healthy Tampa Bay’ honand oree by the Tampa conThe YMCAs of Tampa Bay were Bay Business nected recognized recently for work done Journal. in their for the community during the early ‘One Tampa own days of the pandemic.

Bay’ is a Tampa Bay Business Journal home. award that honors nonprofit organizations Additionally, blood drives hosted at and for-profit companies for their philanYMCAs across Tampa Bay have positivethropic efforts. This year’s class features ly impacted 2,637 lives so far.

17 corporate philanthropy honorees and Furthermore, the Ys conducted 1,678 vir21 nonprofit organizations out of over 220 tual reading and Early Head Start sesnominations. sions to help students stay on track.

Stepping in to fill critical voids, the “For more than a century, the Y and Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA transithe Tampa Bay community have made it tioned its Y facilities to provide emergency through many challenging times togethrelief care for 1,534 children of medical er. Historically, the Y has played imporpersonnel, first responders and other tant roles in helping our community essential workers during the initial months endure during times of uncertainty and of the pandemic. In doing so, the Y was societal strain. The current COVID-19 able to provide over 308,800 hours of pandemic is another challenge that none safe fun and 15,440 healthy meals to chil- of us will soon forget,” said Matt Mitchell, dren in partnership with local school dispresident and CEO of the Tampa tricts.

Metropolitan Area YMCA. “We are fortuTogether with Feeding Tampa Bay nate to have the support of our neighand other community organizations, Ys boring Ys, community partners, donors across Tampa Bay served more than and staff to find ways to use our 70,000 meals to families in need, providresources to offer solutions to social ed 1,104 baby care essentials and gave voids.”

753 cloth masks to community members To learn more, visit www.ymcatamin need. Y staff reached out to nearly pabay.org.

Page 37

Visit Tampa As Curtis Hixon Park Is Turned Into A Magical Winter Village Each holiday season, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is transformed into the magical Winter Village complete with an outdoor ice skating rink, shops, holiday treats and its Curtis Hixon Park Choo Choo for the children.

The Winter Village is open from November 20 through Sunday, January 3, 2021. Curtis Hixon Park is located at 600 N. Ashley Dr. in Tampa.

This year, a limited number of skaters will be allowed on the ice and masks will be required. Skaters will need to obtain tickets prior to arriving at the rink. Ice skating costs $15 per skater which includes skates. Skaters will have 75 minutes on the ice. To purchase tickets, please click on Buy Tickets Here at www.wintervillagetampa.com.

The rink is open Monday through Thursday 4-9 p.m., Friday from 4-10 p.m. and Saturday from 12 Noon-9 p.m.

Extended hours of 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and 12 Noon9 p.m. on Sunday will be offered from November 23 to Friday, November 27 and Wednesday, December 23 to Sunday, January 3, 2021.

It will be open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Christmas Eve and from 4-10 p.m. on Christmas Day. Visitors can enjoy the Café at Winter

By Kathy L. Collins

Village, featuring Icicles Craft Kitchen, Kahwa Coffee and Whatever Pops.

This year, the Shops of Winter Village will feature five boutiques from local vendors, including Apartment No.3, Don Me Now, Popped Shoppe, The Modern Paws and Unlock Tampa Bay. The shops will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

New this year is the Curtis Hixon Park Choo Choo, which is a free holiday activity. The Choo Choo train station is located at the front of Curtis Hixon Park near Ashley Dr. It will be a 10-minute ride through the park, and through it you can enjoy the lights and sounds of the Winter Village.

This year, you can enjoy a socially distanced visit with Santa. Simply visit @wintervillagetampa on Facebook or Instagram for clues on when you might be able to catch a glimpse of him.

This year’s Winter Village will certainly be different, but it will still be fun.

Chrissy Nieves of Riverview said, “We are planning on taking my son for his birthday. I am sure he will be excited about the Choo Choo and hopefully he will be tall enough to skate.”

For more information, visit www.wintervillagetampa.com.

Page 38

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

G ET THE DIRT WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT

Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension

My Favorite Funky Flowers

Last month I shared information about three of my favorite funky flowers: Spiral ginger, Dutchman’s pipe and Hoya. We felt three favorites were not enough, and six would be much better. This article includes Tillandsia, gloriosa lily and Chinese hat.

Bromeliad and Tillandsia are members of the pineapple family.

There are 16 native Bromeliad species and approximately 85 native species of ‘air plants’ in Florida. Bromeliads are slowgrowing. Some prefer sun, and others prefer shade. Tillandsia live on other plants but do not live off them. They are epiphytes, not parasites. Propagation is from ‘pups’ produced by the mother plant.

Gloriosa lilies are a fast-growing perennial that can reach a height and spread of 2-8 feet. It has medium drought-tolerance, prefers partial

shade/partial sun and performs well in full shade. This plant produces gorgeous flowers that are crimson/yellow-orange.

Mine are in pots and the ground with trellising support.

The Chinese hat plant has a moderate growth rate and can reach a height and spread of 5-8 feet. It requires irrigation during dry seasons. Chinese hat plants prefer partial shade/partial sun and produces bright orange/red flowers that look like a hat. It works well as a hedge, border or specimen plant. For more information, see “Holmskioldia sanguinea” by Edward F. Gilman at http://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/database/documents/pdf/shrub_fact_sheets/holsana.pdf.

For more information on Bromeliad and Tillandsia, please see the University of Florida publication “Florida’s Native Bromeliads” by Barbra C. Larson, J. Howard Frank, Ginger M. Allen and Martin B. Main at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/UW/UW20 500.pdf. For more information about the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program and to register for upcoming workshops, please view our calendar of events at https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events/. You can contact me at the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 744-5519, ext.

54105. Hope you can get outside and garden. Be well.

Volume 19, Issue 12

AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquors Hopes To Increase Bottle Sales With Holiday Event

By Libby Hopkins

AJ’s Fine Wine why it’s best to purchase & Liquors’ annual in advance. These bottles Jack Daniel’s make a wonderful Engraving Event Christmas gift that can has become a holicost $20 all the way up to day tradition to the $200.”

Valrico community.

The engraving Ajay process only Jambhekar, owner takes about of AJ’s Fine Wine & 15 minutes Liquors, is gearing and this year up for his annual customers can bottle engraving also have logos Ajay Jambhekar, owner of AJ’s event. He has engraved on the Fine Wine & Liquors, teamed again teamed up bottles or other up with Jack Daniel’s to host a bottle engraving event on Saturday, with Jack Daniel’s sayings aside December 5 from 5-8 p.m. to offer engraving from holiday greetings. on liquor bottles.

Jambhekar hopes to beat last year’s “I started this event a few years ago engraved bottle record of 95 bottles. and I do it two times a year, once at “My goal is to have over 100 bottles Christmas time and the other around engraved at this year’s event,” Father’s Day,” Jambhekar said. “These Jambhekar said. “Last year we did 95, events are done basically as a way to say and the previous year we did 85, so I ‘thank you’ to our customers.” want to do at least 100 or more.”

The bottle engraving event will take Jambhekar loves educating his cusplace on Saturday, December 5 at tomers on the different liquors, wines and Jambhekar’s store from 5-8 p.m. beers he offers in his store.

This year’s event will feature six dif“In the liquor and food industry, the ferent liquors to choose from for the bottle two most important things are taste and engraving, including Jack Daniel’s, Jack quality,” Jambhekar said. “I like to let my Daniel’s Single Barrel, Jack Daniel’s customers know about how different Single Barrel Proof, Jack Daniel’s Frank products taste and save them money at Sinatra, Gentleman Jack and Woodford the same time.”

Reserve.

To learn more about the bottle “This is a one-day-only event and engraving event or to pre-purchase a botcustomers can pre-purchase their bottles tle to be engraved, contact Jambhekar at and pick them up the night of the event or 654-6488. AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquors is the next day,” Jambhekar said. “This year, located at 3443 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in the there are no restrictions on how many Shoppes at Lithia - Publix Plaza in bottles customers can purchase. This is Valrico.

December 2020

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Brandon Ballet To Perform The Nutcracker Outdoors To Kick Off Its 27th Season

By Kathy L. Collins

The Brandon Ballet young girl to whom Herr will present its annual Drosselmeyer gifts the production of beloved Nutcracker doll.

Tchaikovsky’s holiday This year, due to the risk classic, The Nutcracker. that bringing outside This year, the performdancers in to perform the ances will take place on usual parts poses, Artistic an outdoor stage at Director Doricha Sales has Overflow Church in transformed the Clara role.

Valrico. Audiences will Clara is now a grandmother. have three opportunities She gives the Nutcracker to to watch the performher favorite granddaughter, ances on Saturday, Marie, who then gets to December 5 at 7:30 relive the magic of her The Brandon Ballet will not p.m. and on Sunday, grandmother’s journey allow a pandemic to stop its December 6 at 3 p.m. dancers from performing. This through the Land of and 5:30 p.m. year, it will present a classic Sweets.” ballet, The Nutcracker, Tickets are $20 and Townend added, “Even outdoors. Audiences will see a can be purchased by as we are continuing to reimagined holiday classic visiting www.brandonbring the art of dance to the performed in a safe and responsible manner. ballet.org/2th-season/. community, we are also Overflow Church is located at 4929 Bell continuing to keep our dancers and audiShoals Rd. in Valrico. ence members safe. Company memHannah Townend, administrative bers now dance in smaller groups than director of the Brandon Ballet, said, before, which not only makes seeing “While The Nutcracker. is usually pereach dancer’s individual face easier, formed in an indoor theater, we are but also ensures social distancing even choosing to present this magical ballet on in the performance. For the iconic snow an outdoor stage. Audiences will bring scene, which utilizes a large cast, their own chairs and blankets and hot dancers will don a mask in addition to beverages, if they choose, and sit back their sparkling white tutus." and enjoy the show within the beauty of This is the 27th season of the nature. In addition to this new and excitBrandon Ballet. The nonprofit was ing way of viewing dance, various wellestablished in 1993 as a pre-profesknown roles in The Nutcracker.have been sional ballet company. The Brandon revamped with reimagined choreography Ballet provides superior training and to bring a new look to the roles we all offers three major performances each know and love.” year.

The role of Clara is a good example.

For information, visit www.brandonTownend explained, “Usually, Clara is the ballet.org or call 684-4282.

Consider These Year-end Financial Moves

by Joanna Springstead

We’re nearing the end of 2020, but you’ve still got time to make For starters, add to your

Here’s another suggesment mix to see if it’s still appropriate for your goals

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Page 40

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

Students Use Doorstop Treat To Collect For Those In Need In Neighborhood

Staff Report

Throughout spirit. The the month of kids felt like October, elethe most mentary and important middle schoolpart, especialaged kids in ly in a year FishHawk West like this, was collected over to help collect 750 items for food for the local food Seeds of pantry, Seeds Hope. of Hope.

“I’m glad Instead of the we were able usual candy, to collect so Students in FishHawk West colspider rings, much food in lected food for Seeds of Hope in ghost stickers a fun way. It is the fall by ‘booing’ each other with and light-up so nice to food for the charity. pumpkin necklaces, the kids on help others,” Natures Reserve Dr. played a game said Cate called Booed with Food.

Dobbins, age 12.

In addition to some HalloweenMadison Oatley, age 7, summed it themed gifts, residents left food pantry up nicely, “My favorite part was getting items like cereal, peanut butter, all the food and giving it to people who canned vegetables and pasta on front don’t have food.” porches.

Seeds of Hope is a registered “I liked setting up the decorations 501(c)(3) charitable organization. It proat my friend’s house and then running vides weekly food distribution every away. We left a lot of pasta boxes Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at 710 E. stacked in a big tower,” said Hannah Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. The Bess, age 7. organization has seen a huge rise in ‘Booing’ your neighbors with popularity since the start of the pandemHalloween treats and spiderwebs has ic and donations are needed more than become a fun holiday trend in ever. The organization also provides FishHawk. Kids of all ages love creep- backpacks of food for children to take ing up on their neighbors’ porches and home from school on the weekends and surprising their friends. This version of offers a mobile pantry for those in need. the game serves a great purpose For more information or to learn while still giving some fun Halloween about setting up a neighborhood or local treats to get everyone in the holiday food drive, visit www.sohopefl.org.

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It is important to have your pain evaluated by a professional who understands the rehab necessary to correct it. It is not something that you want to attempt to self-diagnose or experiment with self-prescribed treatments such as kinesiotape and orthopedic braces that you are able to purchase over-the-counter. Long-term bracing can have detrimental effects on our biomechanics and can allow our muscles and surrounding tissues to get weak and become dependent on the brace for support, causing more issues. However, these tools can be effective under the care of a medical professional.

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December 2020

Bloomingdale Band Cannot Be Stopped During Pandemic

By Jane Owen

The Bloomingdale High School Band was still able to have a great season despite restrictions due to the pandemic.

At the start of the school year, uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic along with safety concerns for large gatherings put high school marching band seasons in question. What was never in doubt, however, was the Bloomingdale Band’s ability to keep going. The spirit and determination of the Rajun’ Bull Band cannot be stopped.

Jon Sever, Bloomingdale’s director of bands, revamped the band’s halftime show to adjust for unknowns of the season. Not knowing how long the season might go, he was able to find a Queen show through a vendor who allowed the band to purchase music a little at time.

The first song is a compilation of “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You.” The second song of the set is “Don’t Stop Me Now.” Sever explained, “The Queen song ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ seemed to fit our goals of finding a way to make the season happen under these difficult circumstances.”

With safety being the highest priority, changes had to be implemented. Indoor rehearsals require social distancing.

Specific masks to accommodate for instruments were purchased. The band plays exclusively at home games. At 218 members, the band is not allowed in the stands. They sit, spaced apart, deep in the end zone area. Refreshments come in the form of bottled water and prepack-

Page 41

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

aged snacks. Uniforms are cleaned after every wearing. On top of everything, the annual Florida Bandmasters Association Marching Music Performance Assessment (MPAs), which Bloomingdale was to host, was canceled.

Instead of dwelling on what they are missing out on, the students remain focused on playing their best music.

Senior drum major Rosie Harrison is proud of the band’s camaraderie and effort despite the unique challenges: “I have definitely seen the band grow very quickly under these circumstances, especially the freshman class. Everyone has all stepped up to the occasion to make sure that we are putting on the best show we possibly can amidst a lack of preseason rehearsals and with limited performance opportunities. I am very grateful to be able to do all of the things we have done this season,” said Harrison.

Sever is proud of how the students have overcome this year’s adversities.

“I feel they have come together more as a team to help each other. They appreciate what they can do in a time where they are being told what they can’t do.”

To learn more about the Bloomingdale Band, visit www.bloomingdaleband.com.

Bring The Family For Fourth Annual Apollo Beach Lighted Christmas Golf Cart Parade

By Brad Stager

One of Apollo “This year, they’re Beach’s favorite annual doing a breakfast with holiday events is returnSanta at the Salty ing for a day of family Shamrock also,” said fun, as well as a Batten.

Christmas season disAccording to Batten, play of electric vehicle the golf carts, decorated creativity. with Christmas ornaThe fourth annual ments and lights, will Apollo Beach Lighted begin the parade at the Christmas Golf Cart Salty Shamrock parking Parade will take place lot, located at 6186 N. Saturday, December 5 U.S. Hwy. 41 in Apollo with festivities getting Beach, just south of underway at 12 Noon, Apollo Beach Blvd. The according to the event’s parade will travel about Seasonally decorated and illuminated golf carts will Facebook page.

2.5 miles west toward parade down Apollo Beach The Christmas golf Blvd. on Saturday, December Tampa Bay on Apollo cart parade is hosted by Beach Blvd., turning 5 during the Apollo Beach Lighted Christmas Golf Cart back east at the interICON Electric Vehicles, Parade. a nationally section with known and localSurfside Blvd. to ly owned manuend where it facturer of elecbegan. tric vehicles, Before the ranging from golf parade, starting carts suitable for at about 2 p.m., personal leisure there will be a and recreational ‘holiday vendor use to utility fair,’ in the Salty models built for Shamrock’s moving goods parking lot and people on a where there will commercial be family-friendlevel. ly games and activities, according to Lana Batten is the office manager Batten. for ICON and has worked with her “There will be face painting and team to create what has grown into a different stuff for the kids to do,” she fun and greatly anticipated tradition in said.

Apollo Beach.

Registration for golf cart parade “It’s been a really great success,” participants will be conducted on-site said Batten. “Last year, we had a hun- and prior to formation of the parade dred-plus golf carts in the parade.” lineup, which is expected to comBatten added that, besides the mence at about 6:30 p.m. Parade evening golf cart parade, there will be organizers say the event should wrap other activities for parade-goers to up by about 9 p.m. enjoy, and as is true with just about You can check for updates and any Christmas season event, a speexpress interest in attending the event cial guest is scheduled to make an by searching Facebook for ‘Apollo appearance.

Beach Golf Cart Parade 2020.’

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Page 42

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

December 2020

Page 43

Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Deborah Meegan Retires After 18 Years As Executive Director Of Brandon Outreach Clinic

We Wish Everyone a

By Gwen Rollings

Deborah Meegan, came to BOC, she knew executive director of the she was meant to be Brandon Outreach Clinic there. Everything was (BOC), never should tracking on papers. She wonder if she will leave a said, “We had a big clinic legacy as she departs space not being utilized after 18 years in her curand the need in our comrent position. munity for medical servicFrom an early age, es for Meegan had a passion to uninhelp make the world a sured Deborah Meegan better place, and even as has been an integral was retirement looms on the growing member of the Brandon area since 1979. horizon, her concern is rapidly.” So many for the uninsured in our community. improvements have been made under She said, “I would love for more unin- Meegan’s leadership, allowing the clinic sured people to know about BOC so we to go from opening several hours a week could provide them with the healthcare to four days a week now. Meegan is they need and would like more of our proud of these accomplishments because community members to be aware of this they were all done on a nonprofit, barewonderful organization that has been tak- bones budget with essentially volunteer ing care of the uninsured for over 32 staffing. years.”

In a Tampa Bay Times article, Meegan’s education positioned her Meegan said, “My motivation comes from for a life dedicated to others. After gradutwo places. The first is I work with wonating with a degree in social work, she derful volunteers who make an incredible immediately began working with the and important difference in the lives of so underserved population. After achieving a many people. They show up day after master’s degree in business administraday, year after year and ask for nothing in tion, she was employed as a financial return except the opportunity to help othcase manager for Brandon Regional ers. I am also motivated by knowing that Hospital for over 17 years prior to joining every day, there are so many people who the Brandon Outreach Clinic. need the clinic’s medical help to survive.

Her affiliations over 40 years include The work we do is so important. That’s the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, the what keep me going.”

Tampa Bay HealthCare Collaborative, the Meegan’s legacy will continue with all Florida Association of Free and those who came and will come to receive Charitable Clinics and the Brandon the gift of health.

Rotary Club.

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition

Volume 19, Issue 12

Favorite Things Sweepstakes Offers Special Rolling Pin Early Bird Prize-Big Green Egg & More!!

By Marie Gilmore

to contest@ospreyobserver.com or fill out the entry form in this section and send in by mail, fax or email.

Last year, more than 1,500 local residents entered the campaign and ONE lucky winner walked away with a prize package worth more than $2,000. nefitted ations beis year, iz n a rg o d th and families Guide an six local cal Holiday Gift s are offered. r, a e y t s La ird prize Shop Lo Nothing from the ven more early b e Bundt

For six years, Osprey Observer Newspapers has been partnering with local retailers to publish the Shop Local Holiday Favorite Things Sweepstakes and gift guide, and this year promises to be one of the best yet! This year, we’ve partnered with our friends at Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium to offer an early bird prize of a Big Green Egg Grill, and our friends at McAuley Fine Jewelry are offering an exquisite diamond and gold necklace valued at more than $1,000. In addition, we have Essentials of Brandon,

$50

Gift Card

Cakes and even more wonderful holiday gifts from our local businesses.

Our campaign, the Osprey Observer, A Few of Our Favorite Things, is even more important this year when families are struggling during a global pandemic and need some joy.

So, from now until midDecember, we will be collecting Our Favorite Things all throughout the community and we will put them together in one giant gift basket that will be given out in a sweepstakes for our readers.

To enter, email ‘Sweepstakes’

Early bird prizes will include a Big Green Egg from Rolling Pin, tickets to Busch Gardens Christmas Town, a diamond necklace and more.

Good luck and thank you for shopping local and reading your Osprey Observer Community Newspaper!

Managing Editor Marie Gilmore

Essentials Of Brandon Celebrates 10 Years Of Top Salon & Spa Services

By Kate Quesada

As 2020 draws to a close, what better gift could you think of for a special person in your life than the gift of relaxation? Essentials of Brandon, a full-service spa located off Bloomingdale Ave., offers a wide variety of services sure to please any one on your list.

Offering hair, nail and skin services as well as massages, Essentials of Brandon is one of the area’s most popular spas. “We are your one-stop shop for luxury services at an affordable price,” said Manager Candace Pacinello, who explained that the spa offers a variety of services in each department.

Hair services range from all over color to balayage and corrective color, and nail services include powder dip, acrylics, gel, basic and signature manicure and pedicure services.

“We offer Deep Tissue, Bamboo Fusion, Hot Stone and Relaxation massages, to name a few,” said Pacinello.

“Our estheticians offer facials that aid in acne-prone skin, geared towards age reversals, microdermabrasion, derma-

planing, and we offer lash services as well, including tinting and extensions.”

But what really sets Essentials of Brandon apart is the customer service offered.

“We are the place where everyone knows your name, our clients are always greeted by their first name when they come in,” said Pacinello.

The spa is also taking the department of health’s COVID-19 requirements very seriously; all clients are asked to fill out a COVID-19 addendum form. Face coverings are also required and workers sanitize after each client.

Essentials of Brandon is offering seasonal facials and pedicures, including an Illuminating Facial for $59.95 and a Peppermint Pedicure for $30 in December, and gift certificates of any value can be purchased at the store and online.

“We recently expanded our hair suite to accommodate five stylist chairs and have talented stylist to get everyone looking their best for the holiday season,” said Pacinello.

Essentials of Brandon is located at 3405 Brook Crossing Dr. and can be reached at 681-1110. To learn more, visit www.brandonessentials.com.

The Holidays Are A Time For The Gift Of Music At Music Showcase We’ve all got our own styles and can be quite different yet similar, and nowhere else is that emphasized more than in arts like music, with which we can express ourselves and entertain each other in continuously new ways. It’s truly a gift that keeps on giving, one Music Showcase is happy to offer.

Music Showcase, a family-owned business open since 1995, has all kinds of name-brand instruments for purchase, including brass instruments, drums, guitars, keyboards, orchestral instruments and woodwind instruments, plus various accessories. It is also a place of learning for all ages and experience levels, offering fun, dynamic lessons on playing instruments and singing in the style you want to achieve.

Music Showcase provides instrument rental as well, including a month-to-month rent-to-own program with rental payments going towards the purchase, and it has a repair service. Rented instruments can be delivered to your school or picked up.

With the Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA), it also has programs where kids can participate in musical theater, classes, workshops, and events, with many virtual and in-person options.

One of its in-person fall productions

By Taylor Wells

for ages first through sixth grade, Magic Tree House: A Ghost Tale for Mr. Dickens JR. is a holidaythemed story based on book #44 of Mary Pope Osborne’s Magic Tree House series, with registration spots still available and performances on Friday-Sunday, November 20-22 at Music Showcase.

Other performances at FAOPA to register your kids and get tickets for include Oh, What a Tangled Web, All Shook Up, Sound of Music and The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley Online Edition.

To help give parents more time to shop, on Saturday, December 5 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Music Showcase and FAOPA are holding their Santa’s Workshop, in which kids ages 5-12 will have dinner, snacks, play games, do crafts, watch a movie and more. The price is $25 and each additional child is $10. With all it has to offer, Music Showcase is the perfect place to get the gift of music for the holiday season.

Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. To learn more about Music Showcase and its gear, lessons and more, visit www.musicshowcaseonline.com. To learn more about FAOPA’s programs, events, tickets and prices, visit faopa.org.

FBC Plant City Hosts Family-Friendly Holiday Lights Drive-In Event

By Kate Quesada

The First Baptist Church of Plant City (FBC) is hosting a family Christmas event perfect for 2020. The Light of Christmas is a drive-in Christmas event featuring Christmas songs, programmed lights and a message of hope.

According to FBC Director of Communications Jay Strike, the event will take place nightly from 6-10 p.m. beginning on Friday, December 4 and running through Saturday, January 2, 2021.

“This is something brand-new for us,” said Strike. “In the past, First Baptist Church has held large-scale Christmas productions with choir, orchestra, drama and multimedia elements. The need to socially distance limits our ability to prepare for that type of event and limits the number who would attend. That makes this type of event perfect for this ‘unique’ Christmas season.”

The free event is open to all members of the public.

“Our desire is to reach families looking for something to do this holiday season,” said Strike. “Many things are different due to the pandemic and this will give the opportunity to get out of the house and take part in a Christmas event.”

The church is working hard to make the event special and organizers are taking into consideration how hard this year has been for many people.

“We are being very intentionally to not just do ‘lights and music,’” said Strike.

“While there are familiar Christmas songs in this presentation, we are also offering a message of hope and encouragement. In the craziness that 2020 has brought all of us, that is going to be something different and appealing to those who attend. Great songs, great lights, great message, what’s not to love?”

First Baptist Church of Plant City is located at 3309 James L. Redman Pkwy. and can be reached at 752-4104. For more information, visit www.FBCPC.com/events.

Nothing Bundt Cakes Offers Perfect Holiday Treats For Every Season The holidays are a great time to treat yourself and your friends, and Nothing Bundt Cakes, located in Winthrop Town Centre, has the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

With 10 delicious flavors and options ranging from single serving Bundtinis to 10-inch cakes, Nothing Bundt Cakes has something for everyone, even those whose diet is restricted to glutenfree.

Owner Rob Shuffield, a Brandon High School graduate, grew up in the area and was thrilled to open the Winthrop location three years ago.

“I love the Brandon community and am proud to offer the quality and flavors of Nothing Bundt Cakes through our store here,” said Shuffield. “Winthrop has been such a great location for us and we are so thankful to John Sullivan for his vision for such a great community center.”

According to Shuffield, the most popular flavors at the location are chocolate chocolate chip and red velvet, but he encourages shoppers to look for seasonal choices pumpkin spice in November

Dixie Belle Starter Gift Bag

By Kate Quesada

and peppermint chocolate chip in December.

Cakes and toppers are available for holiday parties in addition to birthdays, graduations and weddings.

Nothing Bundt Cakes offers online ordering and thirdparty delivery, making it easy for residents to enjoy while keeping safe.

As Nothing Bundt Cakes is very popular for gifts and holiday gatherings, Shuffield recommends residents to order online in advance.

The website also offers information on fundraising with Nothing Bundt Cakes and the opportunity to sign up for the store’s eClub, which offers a free birthday treat.

“Stop by and try our products,” said Shuffield. “Our general manager, Noelle, and the team would love to meet you.”

Nothing Bundt Cakes is located at 11238 Sullivan St. in Riverview and can be reached at 409-2394. To learn more or order online, visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com. Its hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Offers One-Stop Shop For Holiday Gifts & Meals If you have food lovers on your holiday list, look no further than Brandon’s own Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium for answers to all your needs.

Locally owned and operated by Chef Dave West, Rolling Pin has something to offer everyone with gifts, camps, classes and room to hold unique, private holiday get-togethers.

“We are stocked with 10,000-plus gifts for foodies and grillers with a huge range of kitchen and grilling tools,” said West.

Rolling Pin is also Brandon’s Platinum Dealer for Big Green Eggs and stocks Ooni pizza ovens, Green Mountain grills and Nora Fleming collectables.

For aspiring chefs or those who just love to eat, Rolling Pin also offers gift certificates for camps and classes throughout the year, not just during the busy holiday season.

“We have hands-on and demonstration-style cooking classes that are holiday-driven but also feature steakhouse themes and couples’ cooking, just to name a few,” said West.

Camps over winter break include a

By Kate Quesada

variety of specials for kids and tweens, and Santa is even stopping in for special breakfast and lunch events.

If you are looking for a place to host a private holiday event, act fast, because Rolling Pin’s calendar is filling up. The location can cater to small to medium-sized groups (10-36 people) with many party options.

“What makes us special is that we are locally owned and operated and have been serving Brandon for more than 25 years,” said West. “We have a knowledgeable staff and products that guests can touch before buying. Our classes and events also allow customers to use products themselves as well as see them in action.”

Rolling Pin is open seven days a week with extended hours in the 12 days prior to Christmas. It is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon and can be reached at 653-2418. Email West at dwest@rollingpinoline.com.

To learn more or see the calendar of classes and events, visit www.rollingpinonline.com.

County Fairgrounds Hosts Drive-Thru Wonderland Of Lights Experience If your family is looking for a unique way to get into the holiday spirit, look no further than the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds from Thursday, November 26 to Sunday, December 27.

The Dover location is hosting The Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village for the fifth year in a row.

According to Marketing Spokesperson Jillian Kaplan, the event is the Tampa area’s premier holiday-themed experience, offering an entirely no-contact option for those who choose to stay in their cars.

“Every week, Monday through Wednesday, guests are routed through over a mile of spectacular lights and holiday displays all from the safety of their vehicles,” said Kaplan. “Each Thursday through Sunday, along with the light show, enjoy the fun and entertainment of Santa’s Village, including an appearance

by Santa himself and a variety of enjoyable, family-friendly events.”

Throughout the month, additional experiences will be added, including Rulito’s Musical Comedy Extravaganza on opening night, November 26, and Nerdy Noah’s Comedy Show from Thursday-Sunday, December 10-13.

By Kate Quesada

There will also be special nights dedicated to nonprofits, like a food drive for United Food Bank of Plant City on Thursday, December 3—wherein, with a minimum contribution of 10 nonperishable food items, donors will receive $5 off a one-time drive-through experience—and on Thursday, December 10— in which donors will receive $5 off for a minimum contribution of a 10-pound unopened bag of dog or cat food.

Kaplan wants attendees to feel safe and healthy during the experience.

“We are following all the mandates set by the state/county and the CDC,” she explained. “Guests that go through the drive-through tour only, who buy their tickets online, have a completely no-contact experience. We will have hand sanitizing stations, social distancing reminders/signage and recommend masks at all times during their visit at Santa’s Village.”

Visit www.thewonderlandoflights.com for event details, attractions, pricing, discount opportunities, and COVID-19 safety information. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located just east of Brandon at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

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Welcome to the holidays! Get into the holiday spirit as residents kick off the season with the lighting of Tampa's official tree in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

The evening begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 4, with the Tampa’s own Christmas band, Late Night Brass, who are sure to put everyone in the holiday spirit. Tampa’s mayor will lead the countdown to the Tree Lighting at approximately 7:20 p.m.

Immediately following the Tree Lighting will be a holiday movie in the park.

Admission is free. Blankets, low back chairs, coolers and dogs on leashes are welcome. Concessions available on-site.

Visit Friends of Tampa Recreation, Inc. on Facebook for more information.

Give Kids The World Village Launches Sparkling New Holiday Tradition With Night Of A Million Lights

For the first time ever, Give Kids The World Village in Kissimmee will host a holiday celebration under the stars—offering the public a rare glimpse into the whimsical nonprofit resort that fulfills the wishes of critically ill children from around the world. From Friday, November 13, through Sunday, January 3, 2021, visitors can experience the childlike wonder of the Village during Night of a Million Lights, a walk-through, fully immersive, holiday light spectacular.

Tickets are on sale now at www.gktw.org/lights, enabling guests to

stroll among Gaylord Palms the brilliant Adds More To lights and take Annual part in a variety Christmas of fun and fesCelebration tive family activGaylord Palms ities in a safe, is well-known for its socially distant annual Christmas Gaylord Palms has Holiday Events. manner. celebration and this Admission includes complimentary ice year the line up includes a new marquee cream and hot cocoa, as well as unlimitpop-up experience, ‘I Love Christmas ed access to the Village’s wheelchairMovies™.’ The Christmas event at accessible rides and attractions. The Gaylord Palms runs from Friday, event will run from 5-10 p.m. daily, with November 13 through Sunday, January staggered entry times to prevent crowd3, 2021. ing. Mask-wearing will also be required Another brand-new experience this for all guests. year is the Snow Factory, which will transProceeds from the event will support port guests to a winter wonderland filled Give Kids The World Village’s mission to with icy snow fun. In this mechanized provide wish snowy play space, families will enjoy mulvacations for tiple attractions, including Snow Flow critically ill chilMountain, where they can slide through dren and their factory conveyor belts that have been families. The frozen solid and ride tubes down a Village is locatthrilling plummet slide or hilly ice coaster. ed at 210 S. All events are designed with social Bass Rd. in distancing measures at the forefront.

Kissimmee. To With 4.5 acres of airy indoor atriums learn more, visit www.gktw.org.

Walk Through Winthrop Scheduled For December 4

Mark your calendars! Winthrop Town Centre in Riverview will host its annual holiday kickoff event, ‘Walk Through Winthrop,’ on Friday, December 4, starting around 7 p.m. The event will be in multiple destinations with entertainment, tree lighting and a family-friendly movie.

Winthrop Town Centre is located at Winthrop Town Centre Ave. in Riverview.

To learn more about Winthrop, visit www.winthropusa.com.

By Kate Quesada

Cirque Dreams Unwrapped, featuring stunning feats of showmanship performed onstage and in the air.

Due to limited capacity in accordance with Marriott’s ‘Commitment to Clean’ program, advance online reservations are required for all ticketed events. Tickets can be purchased at ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com and ILoveChristmasMoviesExperience.com.

RiverWalk Lighted Boat Parade Is Tampa Tradition

The Downtown Tampa Lighted Boat Parade will take place on Saturday, December 19 through the Riverwalk area.

Vessels must register online in advance.

To register and for more information, visit www.thetampariverwalk.com.

Busch Gardens Plans Christmas Town

Plans are underway for one of Tampa’s favorite holiday events, Christmas Town at Busch Gardens. The event, which includes fun, festive activities for the whole family, will be part of park admission from Saturday, November 21 to Sunday, January 3, 2021. Additional details will be made available online at BuschGardens.com so guests can start planning visits soon.

Belmont’s First Annual Winter Wonderland Festival And Market Extravaganza decorated with millions of twinkling holiday lights, a towering Christmas tree in the St. Augustine atrium and thousands of shimmering ornaments, visitors can look forward to even more festive experiences, including live performances on the St. Augustine Stage like the dazzling

Come out to Belmont’s first annual Winter Wonderland in Ruskin on Saturday, December 5, from 1-6 p.m.

This is a free public event, with proceeds benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Multiple market vendors will be available to sell a variety of products and food trucks, email belmontwinterwonderland@gmail.com.

Toys For Tots Continues To Make Holiday Dreams Come True Christmas morning should be a magical time for children, but there are some in our area who may need a helping-hand to make this come true. Thousands of children in need will get gifts from Santa this Christmas thanks to efforts of Toys For Tots.

Since 1947, Marine Corps Reserve Units nationwide have encouraged businesses to gather new, unwrapped toys for needy children. The local Toys For Tots places toy collection boxes in businesses and churches through the efforts of local coordinators Donald Pearson and Ann Hathaway of Pearson Capital, a Financial Investment Company in Apollo Beach.

This year will mark Pearson’s 16th year with the Toys for Tots, which has grown every year to become one of the largest toy collection efforts in Tampa Bay. This effort continues to grow each year. “Last year, through the generosity of more than 100 local businesses, the local Toys For Tots collected more than $9,000 in cash, 6,000 toys and over 100 bikes, which made up 60 percent of the Hillsborough County collection,” said Hathaway. “And this year the need is going to be overwhelming.”

Toy collection begins at the various businesses and locations from Monday, October 26- Saturday, December 12. This year, the program is looking for 3-4 more

By Kelly Valdes

volunteers to be “Box Captains” for the program.

Toys are to be new, unwrapped and in their original packaging. Hathaway explained that all new toys are welcome, but there is often a shortage of toys for children ages 0-2 yrs old as well as gifts for pre-teen boys ages 11-14. She also said that new bicycles are also in high demand each year.

Due to Covid, the collection party that is held at The Alley, located at 10221 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview is going to be different this year. The Marines from the 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion will be greeting the businesses that will be dropping of the toys at The Alley in a drive-thru format between 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, December 12.

Registration is now open for family toy requests until Sunday, November 15 at www.tampa-fl.toysfortots.org. To be a collection site, email Ann Hathaway at pearsoncapital7@gmail.com or call 645 6392. Some of the normal drop-off sites each year are Rachel’s Family Salon in Apollo Beach, The Alley and NV Salon in Riverview. Visit Toys for Tots on social media for a complete list of locations.

Email Hathaway at pearsoncapital7@gmail.com. For more information on the Toys for Tots program, visit www.toysfortots.org.

The Stano Foundation Sends Christmas In A Box To Our Troops

By Libby Hopkins

Each year, The Stano Foundation sends care packages to our troops all over the world.

These care packages offer them some love and comfort from home.

This year, the foundation wants to send our troops Christmas in a box.

“We send care packages out every quarter, but for the holiday care packages we wanted to be able to send our heroes overseas Christmas in a box,” said the foundation’s president, Paula Stano.

“These military members are not able to celebrate with their families or friends, so we wanted to let them know they were not forgotten and give them a reason to celebrate. For our holiday packages we are wrapping the inside with Christmas wrapping paper and adding in items like Santa hats, ornaments, hot chocolate, candy canes and Christmas lights. Each box will still have the normal 40 to 45 items we send and lots of snacks.”

The Stano Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was founded in June 2015 with the mission to support our Armed Forces, veterans and their families through program-based initiatives focused on enhancing their comfort and quality of life by providing them with a piece of home.

The COVID-19 pandemic hindered the foundation’s ability to fundraise in 2020.

“Since the pandemic, we have not been able to hold many of our fundraisers as most of them were in partnership with event companies held outside and with large crowds,” Stano said. “We have had to find other ways to raise funds, which has not been easy as everyone’s finances have been affected by COVID.” The Stano Foundation is looking for sponsors from the Brandon community to help it send Christmas in a box to our troops for the upcoming holidays.

“We need items like Santa hats, USB lights, small acrylic paint sets and normal snacks we send, like protein bars, beef jerky, microwaveable mac and cheese cups and cup-o-noodles,” Paula said.

“The community can assist by purchasing items from our Amazon Wish List, which can be found at https://stano.org/getinvolved/#supplylist. There is a ‘Supplies Needed’ section and a link to see our supply list on Amazon. We can also always use thank-you letters or cards, as these are an item our military members love to receive in their care packages.”

To learn more or to make a monetary donation, visit www.stano.org.

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For King & Country Comes To Lakeland For Drive-In Tour One of the biggest names in Christian music, for KING & COUNTRY, announced a Christmas drive-in tour and included Silvermoon Drive-In, located in Lakeland, as a stop.

The band consists of two Australian brothers named Joel and Luke David Smallbone. The tour is titled A Drummer Boy Drive-In Live and will feature both Christmas and hit songs preformed by the band live. The concert at the Silvermoon Drive-in will take place on Friday, December 11, and tickets are available for purchase now, ranging from $75-350 before fees. Tickets are being sold by the car, not by the person, and up to six people are allowed in a vehicle.

Instead of assigning and purchasing a specific parking spot, attendees will select a zone in which their spot will be located in. The gates for the concert will open at 5 p.m. and the performance will begin at 7 p.m. It is recommended that attendees arrive early; this will allow time for them to be directed to their parking spot in the zone they purchased tickets.

Spots will be assigned depending on arrival time and cannot be requested.

Merchandise should be available to order for contactless delivery on the night of the show.

By Faith Miller

Bryan Scott, director of concerts and events for The JOY FM, described the event as, “An amazing night under the stars with the biggest name in Christian music celebrating the birth of our Savior.”

According to Scott, COVID-19 was one of the biggest inspirations for this drive-in tour. A national concert promotion company had pioneered the drive-in model so that concerts could still be performed while also following restrictions put in place by local governments. Another factor that Scott believed was a big part of it was people’s longing to get out of their homes and the longing for live concerts to return.

The show will feature a live performance from for KING & COUNTRY while attendants stay in and around their vehicles. Attendants are allowed to bring lawn chairs and sit outside their vehicles but are asked to keep social distancing in mind.

“Take the biggest name in Christian music and mix it with Christmas and you have a huge success,” said Scott.

For more information regarding the event along with ticket prices and purchases, visit https://florida.thejoyfm.com/events/boxoffice/for-king-and-country-drive-in-live/.

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Dancing For Donations Offers Affordable Lessons For All Ages And Skill Levels So many things in life happen as a result of some fortuitous event which changes everything.

Sara Battaglia began dancing at 8 years old, learning jazz, tap, lyrical and point, but her passion was ballet.

She trained with Sarasota Ballet and School of Russian Ballet and furthered her dance education at the University of South Florida.

Then, a hip injury brought Battaglia to a crossroads…a fortuitous event which led her to become the founder and director of Dancing for Donations (D4D).

Battaglia envisioned D4D as an allinclusive, nonprofit dance program with a mission to offer dance lessons sustained from community donations. Battaglia said, “Three years ago, we started very, super small. I never imagined it would grow to the extent that it has since then.”

There are several reasons which might explain the growth. Battaglia did her due diligence as director of D4D. She completed Exceptional Student Education courses, earned her Youth Protection Advocate in Dance® certification, took autism training and created a dance environment which is child-safe with all music, movement and costumes being ageappropriate.

D4D is also a Wingman for Dance Studio. Wingman is described as a one-

By Gwen Rollings

of-a-kind youth development program designed to help dance studio owners and teachers boost dancers’ confidence, encourage teamwork and leadership and promote an inclusive and supportive environment.

Battaglia reinforced that ‘all inclusive’ means all ages, skill levels and social skills are welcome.

Michelle Ebner said, “My 5-year-old daughter has been attending since August 2017. I wanted to put her in a dance class to help her focus. She loves it… We are so grateful that we learned about this wonderful program.” All teachers are CPR-certified and backgroundchecked.

Another reason for D4D popularity, according to Battaglia, was that “Dance programs are usually so expensive that many families cannot afford lessons.

D4D’s mission to be available and affordable extends to Tampa Bay HEAT at the Homeschool Resource Center, homeschool classes and in-person and virtual lessons as well.

It’s Kidz Time in Riverview recently donated a bus that will be used for summer camps, after-school pickups, special events and fundraisers—another fortuitous event.

Email dance4donations@gmail.com or visit dancing4donations.org.

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Creating The Ultimate Charcuterie Board

Family Features

Stick to the basics this holiday season to create a perfect charcuterie board: •The board: Select a board big enough for your gathering but not too big as you want there to be overlap and crowding.

•The cheeses: Select three different cheeses that complement the other items. Brie is a solid soft cheese choice while blue fills the need for a stronger, more pungent cheese. Try an aged cheddar or smoky gouda to round out the trio.

•The meats: Something salty with a little fat, like prosciutto or speck, provides a flavorful addition to the board.

•The produce: Choose fruits that not only taste great, but are also beautiful to display such as Envy apple slices, which stay whiter longer, making them ideal for any entertaining occasion. Plus their balanced sweetness pairs well with any item on the board.

•The crackers: Variety is key with crackers, and like the cheeses, three types is typically the magic formula. Think water crackers, multi-grain wafers and breadsticks.

•The snacks: Sweet and salty are king when it comes to snacks, so a mix of chocolate and nuts works for many charcuterie boards.

Helping Others During The Holidays

Family Features

Giving during the holiday the mobile app or on your season can mean more than web browser to get the same gifts. It’s the time of year online shopping experience when giving back to your you’re accustomed to with the community can make an added benefit of donating a even bigger impact – espeportion of eligible purchases cially this year when so many to a charity of your choice. need a helping hand.

Spread information.

This holiday season, do People are more willing to your part to help deliver contribute to a cause when smiles to loved ones and they understand how they people in need. Reap the can help. Align with an organifeel-good rewards of helpzation or cause you care Photo Courtesy of Getty Images ing others with these ideas about and share details on how to make a difference. about how the community can help. Let Give time. One of the greatest donathe organization know you’re eager to tions an organization can receive is your generate awareness, and it can typically time. Volunteer roles can vary significantly find a way to put your skills to use. depending on the organization you Shop for a cause. One thing nonprofchoose but can leave you feeling like its often hear is people want to give, but you’ve contributed in a real and meaning- they don’t know what items will be most ful way. From sorting donated items, useful. You can remove the guesswork preparing and distributing warm meals or with a resource like AmazonSmile Charity wrapping gifts, organizations can almost Lists, which offer a convenient way to always use an extra set of hands during donate to your favorite causes. Donate the holidays. gently used items. This holiday season, Make your shopping count. To help you’ll probably add new clothes to your make the season even brighter, Amazon closet and new toys to the playroom, but is donating millions of items to more than others may not have presents to unwrap.

1,000 charities worldwide through product As you receive gifts this holiday, see what and monetary donations and is making it gently used toys, clothes and household easy for you to give back as well. When items could be donated to help others. shopping for holiday supplies or gifts for Find more information and resources family and friends, you can give back and at smile.amazon.com, and share how donate to your favorite charitable organiyou’re giving back by using zations. Simply activate AmazonSmile in #DeliveringSmiles on social media.

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Holidays On Wheels To Deliver Food And Toys To Families In Need This holiday season, if you are or know someone who is without transportation and is homebound with children, Holidays On Wheels can help. The program, launched by Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger in partnership with Metropolitan Ministries, delivers a full holiday meal and toys to transportation-disadvantaged and homebound families with children this November and December.

Holidays On Wheels was developed to ensure that every family has a nutritious and joyous holiday celebration.

The program will use over 300 volunteers to deliver to families that are homebound or do not have access to a working or reliable vehicle. For those families that have their own transportation, Metropolitan Ministries will host their annual drive-through Holiday Tent.

“We are incredibly grateful to partner with the Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger to continue homebound deliveries this holiday season,” said Tim Marks, Metropolitan Ministries president and CEO. “We are preparing to serve thousands of families, and many do not have access to transportation. Together with the Tampa Bay Network the End Hunger, we can reach those facing immense hardship,” added Marks.

Registration for Holidays On Wheels

By Kathy L. Collins

is now open. Households that qualify include those with children under 18 years old who are not able to get a ride from household members or others for life-sustaining trips, such as medical, grocery, work, job-related training/education and other vital services. It also includes households led by an adult with a disability or illness with children. The head of the household must pass a background check and someone must be home to receive the delivery.

The deadline to register for Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 5 and Monday, December 7 for the winter holidays. Please visit www.networktoendhunger.org/holidays.

This program’s volunteers will pick up route sheets and special delivery items from the Metropolitan Ministry Holiday Tent pickup site and will use their own vehicles to deliver food and joy this holiday season.

If you are interested in helping to deliver meals and toys, please visit www.networktoendhunger.org/volunteer to create a volunteer account and sign up to deliver.

Donations are accepted at www.networktoendhunger.org to help support the Holidays On Wheels program. For more information, please call 344-5837.

37th Annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade Features Chili To-Go And More The Rotary Club of FishHawkRiverview is pleased to announce that the 37th annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade and Chili To-Go event will be held on Saturday, December 5.

The celebration will take place at the Riverview Civic Center starting at 5 p.m. in conjunction with other sites located along the Alafia River. First United Methodist Church of Riverview has agreed to be a viewing site this year, and the boat parade winners will be announced at River’s Edge Bar and Grill.

Last year, the event featured many decorated boats, chili cook-off contestants and refreshments. Children received the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa Claus, heard Christmas music and saw the bright holiday lights of the boats in the parade. More than 30 boats participated last year.

This year promises to be just as fun, with the added precautions that we need to take in our county due to the COVID19 pandemic.

For instance, Santa will be on a boat greeting everyone as the parade goes down the river, chili will be offered to-go— sponsored by the Flying Locksmiths—at

Staff Report

the two viewing sites for a donation of $5 and entertainment will take place outside at the Riverview Civic Center. The organizers hope to attract over 1,500 people to this annual Riverview tradition.

Since its inception, the Rotary Club of FishHawkRiverview has been involved in numerous service projects, including the College Scholarship Program ($58,000+), awarded to date to financially needy students at Riverview, Spoto and Newsome High Schools; the Alafia Lighted Boat Parade; High School Interact; Student Dictionary Distribution (over 9,000 dictionaries to elementary school children since program began); Rotary’s Camp Florida (camp for special needs children in Brandon); Group Study Exchange; Reading is Fundamental (more than 900 free books to Head Start students); S4TL (Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders); Sylvia Thomas Center; Brandon Outreach (over $10,000 given); ECHO; and local YMCAs (over $10,000 given). Club members have separately given through dues and donations over $100,000 in the past 15 years to Polio Plus and The Rotary Foundation.

For more information, email Boat Parade Chairperson Kim Tyson at hummingbird133@verizon.net.

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Open-Air Festivities Bring Safe Holiday Cheer At Busch Gardens Christmas Town

Staff Report

Wrap up the year with holiday cheer earlier than ever at Busch Gardens® Christmas Town™, the park’s award-winning holiday event. New this year, the event kicks off with a preview weekend with light displays and select entertainment elements on Saturday and Sunday, November 14 and 15. Christmas Town runs daily with park-wide festive fun from Friday, November 20 through Sunday, January 3, 2021.

To bring the merriment to life, Busch Gardens’ creative team has consulted with medical experts to offer a modified event with required reservations and limited capacity that celebrates the spirit of the season safely. This seasonal event features open-air entertainment and experiences as well as enhanced health, safety and sanitation measures, including temperature checks, face covering requirements and physical distancing.

Included in park admission, guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist, from millions of twinkling lights throughout the park’s 335 acres to physically distant holiday shows and breathtaking animal encounters.

A warm-weather winter wonderland awaits park guests with a variety of holiday programs offered throughout the

event. Guests are encouraged to check the park’s website before visiting to learn which programs are available each date.

New this year is a ‘Spark the Night’ Fireworks Show which gives guests several opportunities to enjoy festive bursts of Christmas colors as they cover the sky in a dazzling display. Fireworks are offered on select nights throughout the event at the Festival Field, offering plenty of space for guests to spread out and enjoy the sights.

For the first time ever, park guests can enjoy Busch Gardens’ longest-running holiday show, ‘Christmas on Ice,’ at a new outdoor location on the Festival Stage.

Other events include Elmo’s Christmas Wish, Three Kings Journey, Holly Jolly Express and physically distanced meet-and-greets with Santa, Rudolph, Sesame Street friends and other Christmas Town characters.

As guests dash through the night between iconic rollercoasters, they can explore the Christmas Town Village, with drinks and dishes from an all-new chef and mixologist-created holiday menu.

Visit www.ChristmasTown.com and follow Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Page 12

Osprey Observer

December 2020