Bloomingdale/FishHawk
39
July 2021
Volume 20,
Issue 7
Ph: 657-2418
SEE ARTICLE ON PAGE 20
CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
BULLSEYE: BLOOMINGDALE BASEBALL TEAM HITS THE MARK, WINS FIRST STATE TITLE
By Nick Nahas
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
By Tatiana Ortiz
James Bradley Hulett II playing basketball.
Beard Mobb Florida and Just 1 Person Can are teaming up to produce a free event in the FishHawk community on Saturday, October 9 at 12 Noon. Art Monkey Emporium will be hosting Beards & Bands for Bradley, which will benefit the BH3 Foundation. Back in December of 2019, James Bradley Hulett II tragically lost his life at the age of 15. The purpose of the James Bradley Hulett II Youth Basketball Discretionary Fund is to help provide financial support for youth basketball players, teams and organizations within the Tampa area. Brad Hulett explained more on how the BH3 Foundation will benefit from the proceeds of this event. “With the BH3 Foundation, we also go to underserved apartment complex communities in Tampa and surrounding areas to hand out basketballs, footballs and such for the kids,” Brad said. In regards to how the event came into fruition, the founder and president of the nonprofit Just 1 Person Can, Christine Allegretti, reached out to the Hulett family to see how her organization could assist with keeping Bradley’s memory alive. Beard Mobb Florida wanted to help as well. During the event, a farmers’ market will occur. Currently, 30 vendors will be participating. It costs $25 to become a vendor. A bearding competition will also take place; the entry fee will be $15 and there will be at least 10 categories, and prizes will be
awarded. At 1:30 p.m., the bands Hollywood, Kamenar and Red Stump will be performing. In addition, 50 percent of the fees collected will go back to the BH3 Foundation. Allegretti mentioned what this event still needs: “We are in search of musicians, raffle items, silent auction items, sponsors and more.” She added, “The sponsorship comes in four levels, ranging from $150 to $1,000.” A sports equipment drive will also take place. Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped football, basketball and so forth to this event. A couple weeks prior, a kickball tournament will occur. For questions, visit https://www. facebook.com/Just1can, https://www. facebook.com/BMFLC or https://www. facebook.com/events/267813094914786, or send a Facebook message or email Christine at just1personcan@gmail.com. To donate, visit https://bh3fund.org.
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dale (24-6) had a string of close wins leading up to the state final. They had a 7-4 comeback victory against Gaither High School after trailing 4-1 early on, defeated Mitchell High School 2-1 and finished off Gulf Coast High School 4-3 to claim their first regional title since 2014. The Bulls used stellar The Bloomingdale Bulls Varsity Baseball defense, great team won their first state championship. base running “This team didn’t need coaches to keep them focused, the team encouraged each other,” and timesaid Coach Wilson. ly hitting to beat Dwyer The Bloomingdale High School baseHigh School ball program made history, winning to reach their its first state title. The Bulls defeated first state Fleming Island High School 5-1 in the game FHSAA Class 6A State Championship Gabe Garrett ended his senior year title on May 22 at Hammond Stadium in Fort by coming through for the team since the team came up a little when the pressure was on. Myers. bit short against “I instantly felt a rush of South Dade High School in adrenaline as soon as he hit the 2014 state championship the fly ball my way, and once it game. was in my glove, I just thought, Fourteen-year Head Coach ‘We did it,’” said senior outKris Wilken said that he had fielder Marlon Bowen, who his most complete team this took home MVP honors with season in all facets of the his 4-for-5 weekend. “It was game, including pitching, defense, base runonly excitement going through my head.” Bowen, who was arguably the heart and ning and hitting. The 2021 Bulls had more soul of the Bulls, was in the middle of the wins (24) than any other team led by Wilkorder, hitting fourth with a .382 batting av- en. He said that his team’s mental tougherage and a team high 25 runs batted in. It ness is what made the difference. “You can have teams like that that are was Bowen’s first season as a starting varsity player after sitting behind star slugging very complete; if they are not mentally outfielder Dominic Gonnella. He started the tough and have the heart, it really doesn’t season hitting at the bottom of the order matter,” he said. “When we got to the playbefore later breaking through in a big way. offs, we were very complete, but so were all He had the key hit against Fleming Island the teams we played. These kids just wantwith a triple over the left fielder’s head, ed it more, and nothing was going to get in driving in two runs and extending the Bull’s their way.” The Bulls got a boost from an unlikely lead to 4-0 in the third inning. After beating St. Petersburg High School source—junior relief pitcher Chase Chap3-2 in the district championship, BloomingArticle continued on page 9
BEARDS & BANDS FOR BRADLEY EVENT WILL SUPPORT THE BH3 FOUNDATION
21 & Change is an all-volunteer Florida nonprofit organization that believes in the value of all human lives and that all should have the opportunity to discover their full potential. The organization recently held its Champions for Change Challenge this past May. This is an annual, multidimensional event that promotes inclusion and ability for the differently abled in our community. If you would like to learn more about the Riverview-based 21 & Change nonprofit, you can visit its website at www.21andchange.org or call Bodor at 910-273-7049. Read full article on page 21.
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7/31/2021
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
July 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HAMILTON STARS AMONG HIGHLIGHTS AT GIVE KIDS THE WORLD GALA
Staff Report
Cast members from the Broadway pro- bittersweet moments while giving guests duction of Hamilton and other shows will the chance to immerse themselves in the perform during Give Kids The World Vil- fun and excitement of the Village.” lage’s (GKTW Village) annual Black & Walker, a longtime supporter of the VilWhite Gala, scheduled to be held on Sat- lage and host of the Broadway Podcast urday, September 18. For Network’s Little Justice the first time ever, the podcast, said, “It’s a privievent will take place under lege to support an organithe stars at GKTW Village, zation that delivers so much enabling guests to expejoy to wish families. I can’t rience the charm and enthink of a better place to chantment of the 89-acre, bring the magic of Broadwhimsical nonprofit resort, way, spend an evening with which provides critically ill friends, and celebrate the children and their families power of hope.” with magical weeklong In addition to the Broadwish vacations at no cost. way performances, guests Nik Walker (Hamilton, Ain’t Nik Walker (Hamilton, Too Proud, Motown the Musi- will be entertained by a vaAin’t Too Proud, Motown cal) and other Broadway stars riety of musical and theatthe Musical), Joseph Mo- will perform at this year’s Black rical performers positioned rales (Hamilton, In The & White Gala for Give Kids The throughout the venue. World Village in September. Heights), Jen Sese (HamGuests can also bid on aucilton, Hair, Mamma Mia!), Roberto Sinha tion items, savor gourmet food, dance un(Hamilton, Kinky Boots) and Sasha Hutch- der the stars and participate in interactive ings (Hamilton, Oklahoma!, My Fair Lady) games and activities as they explore the will headline an elegant evening of breath- Village’s storybook attractions. taking decor, exquisite dining and dazzling Also for the first time ever, guests who entertainment. More than 1,500 guests purchase premium gala packages can enare expected to attend the charity’s signa- joy a one-night stay in one of the Village’s ture fundraiser, with proceeds earmarked 166 wish family villas, offering an exclusive to create unforgettable experiences for opportunity to experience the childlike wish families. wonder of GKTW Village first-hand. “[The] gala is an opportunity for us Rated four stars by Charity Navigator to pause and say thank you to so many for the 15th year in a row, GKTW Village friends, supporters and partners who has welcomed more than 176,000 criticalmake it possible for us to continue our 35- ly ill children and their families from all 50 year legacy of creating the happiness that states and 76 countries since 1986. inspires hope for wish families,” said Give Give Kids The World Village is located Kids The World Village President and CEO at 210 S. Bass Rd. in Kissimmee. For gala Pamela Landwirth. “We look forward to reservations and more information, visit celebrating heartwarming milestones and www.gktw.org/gala.
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TESSERA OF BRANDON OFFERS HYBRID DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT GROUPS By Anika Shah working in the industry for 16 years, “fills their toolbox with tools” on how to care for someone with memory loss. More than that, she expounded that as “we walk alongside them on this journey, they become friends.” Many times, the most invaluable knowledge is communicated when the older, more experienced members share advice with the younger Ms. Jill Andrew interacts with a patient. newcomers. Andrew Tessera of explained, “The Brandon, an ascool thing about sisted living comsupport groups munity in Branis that those that don, is offering are in the journey hybrid support or along the jourgroups for deney don’t hesitate mentia, Alzheito help others with giving examples of how, mer’s or any other type of memory loss. for example, utilizing a black mat in front of With the COVID-19 pandemic, Tessera the door helped their loved one from not goof Brandon was forced to convert all three ing out the door … simple things like that.” in-person support classes to online. Now, When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, most as the world is opening, it will be having people discontinued their support groups, in-person, socially distanced groups and on- but Andrew recognized that in these changline classes running simultaneously on every ing times, there is even more of a need for fourth Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. folks to stay connected. In the online classand every fourth Wednesday of the month es, the group was able to communicate with at 2 p.m. They will be starting their hybrid people from all over the United States, inclasses in June. cluding Jacksonville and Maryland. Having a Jill Andrew, director of community rela- hybrid system will allow the support groups tions at Tessera of Brandon, explained that to continue to help those beyond the Tampa the support group is for “anyone that is car- area. ing for … someone in your family, a neighbor To learn more about Tessera of Brandon or in your church … that you are coming in and its support groups, visit tesserabrandon. contact with that has some kind of memory com or call 607-6880 to be added to the loss.” email list. It is located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. At the groups, Andrew, who has been in Brandon.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
LITHIA TEEN WINS SCHOLARSHIP H.E.R.O. AWARD KEEPS IN DRIVE2LIFE PSA CONTEST ZACHARY TUCKER’S LEGACY ALIVE By Michelle Caceres Does anyone actuincluding the nationally win scholarships ally syndicated show offered on online? Teen Kids News. They do. “We chose LauJust ask Laura Gonren’s idea because it zalez, a senior at Newhas a different look some High School who and communicates a won the $1,000 grand simple but important prize in the 11th anmessage about not nual Drive2Life PSA letting a friend drive Contest, sponsored while under the influby The National Road ence,” said Michelle Safety Foundation Anderson, NSRF’s di(NRSF), a nonprofit rector of operations. group that promotes Drunk driving is an safe driving behavior. important topic to She saw the scholGonzalez. Not long arship at www. after submitting the scholarships.com and PSA, a couple of her submitted a script friends were in a car for a public service accident caused by a message about the drunk driver. dangers of drunk and Gonzalez said the Newsome senior Laura Gonzalez won a drugged driving. Her $1,000 check has $1,000 scholarship in the 11th annual script was selectbeen deposited into Drive2Life PSA Contest. ed from entries that her bank account and came from teens nationwide. will be used to pay for college. She has Her winning idea is a throwback to the plans to attend Florida Atlantic University era of silent movies in black and white and next year, where the estimated cost of a using titles on the screen to show the di- four-year degree is $101,836. alogue. In it, two girls leave a party, the The win has also inspired her to contindriver obviously too drunk to drive. Her ue applying for scholarships. In the past friend grabs the keys and safely drives month, she has completed about a dozen home as she talks about the risks of driv- scholarship applications. ing drunk. “I was so excited to win money for col“I made it a relatable situation and used lege, so now I go on scholarship websites the format I did to hopefully grab people’s once a week to look for scholarships that I attention,” said Gonzalez, who will work can apply for,” she said. remotely with a New York-based, Emmy The winning PSA will be available for Award-winning production team to shoot free viewing and downloading on NRSF’s and edit her script into a 30-second PSA website at www.nrsf.org/contests/drivthat will air on hundreds of TV stations, e2life.
By Pauline Derry
Each year at Lithia a natural born leader Springs Elementary and a friend to all. School in Valrico, one “He is always posfifth-grade student itive and has an inis given the Zachafectious smile,” said ry Tucker H.E.R.O. Samantha Childress, Award, which highNolan’s mother. “It is lights students that an honor for him to have the following even be nominated qualities: H—happy and recognized by the attitude, E—excellent Tucker family.” student, R—respectNolan is the oldest ed friend and O— of three children and outstanding athlete. is part of a military All of which describe family that has unZachary Tucker, a dergone many moves. Dirk and Sherry Tucker award Nolan former student of the As a result, he has deChildress with the Zachary Tucker school who passed veloped the ability to H.E.R.O. Award. away at the end of his easily make friends third-grade year after wherever he goes. bravely battling a canApart from inside cerous brain tumor for the classroom, where 10 months. Nolan helps whenever After his passing, the needed, he is a part award was created in of the AGP (gifted) 2007 to remember the program, where he lessons Zach taught is described as haveveryone and acknowling superior intelliedge those who follow gence and capable in his footsteps of being of high performance; a hero. he also attends swim Although Lithpractice four times ia Springs Elemena week after school tary School is full of at the Tampa Bay award-winning stu- Nolan Childress is the 2021 recipient of Aquatic Club, where dents, Nolan Childress the Zachary Tucker H.E.R.O. Award. he works with coachstood out above the rest and was named es who push him to succeed. the 2021 H.E.R.O. by Zach’s parents, As the 15th recipient of the award, Dirk and Sherry Tucker at the annual Nolan keeps Zach’s legacy alive at Lithia Fifth Grade Zach Tucker Kickball Tour- Springs Elementary School and sets an nament. example for other students to follow in Nolan is described as a hard worker, the future.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HILLSBOROUGH SCHOOLS INCREASES ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES By Amy Schechter The last few years have highlighted the ed financial assistance, the lack of which need for mental health awareness across so often deters people from seeking help. the community. Schools have long been In fact, there are mental health clinicians on the frontline of identification and as- assigned to each area within the district sistance, connecting students and families to work with school-based teams and parwith needed resources. Thanks to greater ents to help families navigate the paperfunding from the state of Florida, Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is excited to announce additional staffing and partnerships that support the expansion of mental health programs and services. Elizabeth Tanner, supervisor of emotional wellness for HCPS, said, “We’re so fortunate. It’s nice to tell a parent that we can help. It’s not just about academics, we have to think about Thanks to greater funding from the state of Florida, Hillsborough County Public Schools is excited to announce additionthe whole child.” The funding alal staffing and partnerships that support the expansion of lows for additional counselors and mental health programs and services. school social workers, lowering the ratio of mental health professionals to work and make appropriate, timely referstudents, which will help make sure men- rals when additional services will benefit tal health avenues are accessible at every students. school. Both virtually and in brick-andThe funding also helps pay for addimortar schools, these professionals pro- tional awareness training for teachers vide general counseling and school-based and school staffs so everyone is thinking evaluations to identify learning disabilities about it in the classroom. That way, educaand possible problems with mental health. tors can identify students who may need Additionally, in partnership with Central support. The spotlight on mental health Florida Behavior Health Network, Hills- is so important that Hillsborough County borough County Public Schools connects Public Schools offers an Employee Assisstudents and families with community tance Program through employee benefits, providers. Community agencies can pro- which includes access to mental health vide additional therapies/counseling and services and support for when employees diagnose mental health problems. These experience trying times. services are available outside of typical In the future, because of the additional school hours, but many can even have pro- funding, the district is organizing a mobile viders come into schools because of their crisis team that can go out to school sites unique partnerships with the district. when students experience severe episodes, Families may be concerned about person- such as threatened or attempted suicide. al roadblocks, such as insurance coverage, Currently, the district partners with law out of pocket expenses or citizenship sta- enforcement for these sensitive issues for tus. Tanner wants to make sure the com- which students may need to be involuntarimunity is aware, saying, “When families ly admitted to the hospital. It is in the best give us permission, we can help them with interests of students and families to have anything that challenges them, whether it a team of licensed clinicians and therapists be monetary or transportation, with priva- to come in, as they are most experienced in cy and grace. We also help to coordinate deescalating the situation and determining when families need more than one type of the best path for the next steps. service.” The funding from the state allows Contact your local school or visit www. for the district to be able to provide need- hillsboroughschools.org/mentalhealth.
Volume 20, Issue 7
NEW 25-ACRE ALAFIA RIVER PARK COMING TO RIVERVIEW By Michelle Caceres
Construction has started on the 25-acre Alafia River Park in Riverview, which will be located on the north side of the Alafia River off of Riverview Dr., west of U.S. 301 and east of the I-75 overpass.
Riverview residents will soon have a new place to explore. A new park is being built adjacent to the Alafia River. Not surprising, since the waterway meanders for 25 miles, beginning east of County Rd. 39 in Lithia and runs through Riverview and Gibsonton before emptying into Hillsborough Bay. Once completed, the 25-acre Alafia River Park, located off Riverview Dr. in Riverview, will include a 1-mile paved walking trail, plenty of greenspace, restrooms, three picnic pavilions and an observation tower overlooking the river. The pasture area where the walking trail is planned will be restored to native habitat to support the gopher tortoise population and the remaining landscape will incorporate native species such as longleaf pine, pignut hickory and live oaks for shade. Another feature of the park is a Native American statue by renowned artist Daniel Horsechief and endorsed by experts from the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s AhTah-Thi-Ki Museum. The work is being funded through the Public Art Program.
The project, which has been in the works for six years, is estimated to cost approximately $6.2 million ($1.8 million on the park, $1 million and $3.4 million for the land purchase). Another $1 million is being spent to change the sharp hairpin turn at the entrance of the park on Riverview Dr. into a roundabout. Division Manager at Hillsborough County’s Conservation & Environmental Lands Management Ross Dickerson said Riverview’s dense suburban development demanded a place for people to enjoy nature. “This park will be a place for families to gather and have an outdoor experience,” he said. “People will be exercising on the trail, birthday parties and family picnics will happen in the pavilions and children will learn about why our habitat is so important thanks to signage on the path.” The park and roundabout are expected to be completed by the end of this year or early 2022. For more information about Alafia River Park, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/ conservation.
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MEALS ON WHEELS FOR KIDS EXPANDS TO BRANDON, PROGRESS VILLAGE, PALM RIVER & RIVERVIEW
ONE DAY TRIP: HOMOSASSA SPRINGS STATE PARK OFFERS ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE
Tampa Bay Netdren and famiwork to End Hunger lies. Routes take (TBNEH), a tri-counabout 60 minty leader in hunger utes to complete. relief, research and At the core program developof this Meals ment, is now deliverOn Wheels proing Meals On Wheels gram is nutrifor Kids Tampa Bay tious food delivered to (MOW4Kids) in the homes of children Brandon, Progress and their families. The Village, Palm Rivprogram provides meals er and Riverview in Tampa Bay Network to End is now deliver- and shelf-stable grocerHillsborough County. ing Meals On Wheels for Kids Tampa Bay in ies, including produce, MOW4Kids delivers Brandon, Progress Village, Palm River and as resources allow. ChilRiverview in Hillsborough County. lunchtime meals to dren may experience an children who depend on school meals and increase in overall nutrition, food security are at home when school is out of session and feelings of social connectedness from or when learning remotely. Deliveries take volunteers stopping by. place out of ECHO in Riverview. Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger is The Network’s innovative MOW4Kids pro- committed to ending hunger in Tampa Bay gram, the first program of its kind, launched by bringing people together to find solutions March 2020. MOW4Kids, was developed to that eliminate barriers, increase access and serve children, 18 years or younger, with knowledge and expand the amount of nutrimeals delivered to their home by volunteers tious food available. TBNEH has over 350 when school is out of session or when learn- members and serves a tri-county area— ing remotely. MOW4Kids is an alternative Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas Counties. option for kids that are not able to access It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency and relies meal distribution sites; and/or 2) kids that on its community for support. have difficulty accessing food pantries. The To receive free meals delivered to your program currently serves areas throughout home, visit www.mow4kids.org or call Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas Counties. 344-5837. To sign up to volunteer, please Volunteer are needed each week to help visit https://networktoendhunger.org/volpack boxes of food from ECHO in Riverview. unteer/. Volunteers with level 2 background checks The Network is currently accepting doare needed to help deliver Meals On Wheels nations at www.networktoendhunger.org for Kids on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fri- to help support the MOW4Kids program. days starting at 10 a.m. Volunteers drive A donation of just $20 will provide a week their own vehicles to deliver shelf stable of Meals On Wheels for Kids deliveries to boxes of food and cold meal packs to chil- children in need.
Homosassa is home ambassadors for their to several fun-filled species, promoting activities for families conservation through to enjoy year-round. education,” states the The area is home to company website. nearly 30 natural The facility includes springs, several of an experience known which are open to the as ‘The Fish Bowl Unpublic for a variety derwater Observatoof activities, includry,’ where people can ing the Ellie Schiller come observe several Homosassa Springs species of fish as well Wildlife Park. as manatees. The obAccording to the servatory floats in Florida State Parks the main spring along organization, the mixwith offering a liveture of water comfeed television screen ing from the three on the sundeck, allowsources in this locaing visitors to see the tion causes a large animals from what amount of both fresh- A family visits Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs appears to be an unWildlife park and finds activities for everyone. water and saltwater derwater perspective, species to call this spring home. It is also according to the company’s site. historically known for being a winter gathThe location also offers hiking and ering place for West Indian manatees. bird-watching through various trails. The The park is located at 4150 S. Suncoast designated hiking trail is estimated on the Blvd. in Homosassa and has entrance fees website to be a 1.1-mile-long trail that ofthat vary depending on age. People who fers elevated ramps to those in trailers and are ages 13 and up are $13, ages 6-12 are wheelchairs. This trail also has benches $5 and ages 5 and under are free. The and rain shelters available if ever needed. state park is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and The designated bird-watching trail is 0.75 the ticket office closes at 4:45 p.m., ac- miles long and allows guests the opporcording to the company’s website. tunity to partake in “birding and nature The park offers several fun experiences study.” Covered picnic areas are also availfor families to enjoy together, such as na- able for guests to enjoy. ture walks that include the various animals Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park is lothat are being taken care of. cated aproximately 90 minutes from Bran“Unable to survive in the wild for vari- don north of Brooksville off of I-75. Visit ous reasons, the park’s captive wildlife are www.floridastateparks.org.
Staff Report
Expiration 08/01/2021
By Faith Miller
Expiration 08/01/2021
Expiration 08/01/2021
Page 8
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
LOCAL COMPOSITE MOUNTAIN BIKING TEAMS PRODUCE PODIUM FINISHERS IN THE STATE LEAGUE COMPETITION By Hayley Fedor
Strap on your each other at the helmets, fill up your same time, last tires and hold on for season looked a bit dear life, because different as a relocal athletes are sult of COVID-19. reaching incredible It included four heights in the sport timed races where of mountain biking one team raced at for the state. The a time and athletes Florida Interschoreceived points delastic Cycling League pending on what (FICL), founded in time they finished 2018 by Maxwell the race. The final Gledhill, organizes overall rankings for mountain biking Thirteen composite teams compete against each the season came as a sport for mid- other’s times at races across the state during the down to which athmountain biking season. dle school and high letes accumulated school athletes in the state. the highest points total in their age group. “Our goal is to basically have mountain Two athletes, Tyler Hover from Durant biking as a sport for kids. … typically, what and another competitor from Newsome NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling High School, ranked in the top three for Association) teams become are what are their age groups in the FICL last season. called club teams, so they are still affiliated From the perspective of Julie Hovwith the school, but they’re a club team,” er, proud mother of Tyler, “It’s just been said Gledhill. amazing to see how it’s helped him with The Florida league is composed of 13 focus; it’s helped him with dedication and teams located throughout the state, in- commitment to goals.” cluding Southern Hillsborough with RidParents often volunteer as coaches or geline Composite and Lakeland with the volunteer at events, which a lot of times Lakeland Composite Lynx. Local teams gives them the opportunity to be out there practice and ride in a few locations in the on bikes with their kids aside from comarea; two spots frequently used during the petitions. season are Balm Boyette Scrub Nature “For me, the most rewarding thing is just Preserve and Alafia State Park. seeing families come together because of For those teams associated with the this, because what’s really unique about FICL, the competition season runs from this sport is that the parents can actually October, when teams first start meeting to participate with the kids,” said Gledhill. practice and runs (or rather rolls), through To find out more about the opportuniMay with state competitions. ties with the local composite teams and Although the FICL typically formats the Florida Interscholastic Cycling League, state races so that teams race against visit floridamtb.org.
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Volume 20, Issue 7
SUMMER BOATING SAFETY FOR MANATEES AND BOATERS Staff Report The Save the sort of scar from a Manatee Club boat collision. spent a lot of time These tragic aclast month promotcidents are preing National Safe ventable with eduBoating Week, cation, awareness May 22-28, the ofand the care of the ficial launch of the boating community. 2021 Safe Boating Boaters, paddlers Campaign, but the or those who spend group’s work to time near the water keep sea life safe are also encouraged doesn’t end there. to be a voice for This yearlong cammanatees by impaign promotes mediately reporting Save the Manatee Club offers a number of free recreational boatinjured, malnouring safety, such as materials available upon request to help safeguard ished, orphaned, enwearing life jackets manatees and increase awareness of manatee-safe tangled, stranded or boating tips. and not boating dead manatees to the while under the influence of alcohol. Save FWC or its local state wildlife officials. the Manatee Club also uses the campaign, Save the Manatee Club offers a number which kicks off the week before Memorial of free materials available upon request Day Weekend, to remind boaters of mana- to help safeguard manatees and increase tee-safe boating tips. awareness of manatee-safe boating tips. During the summer, manatees are found Shoreline property owners as well as park in shallow estuaries, bays, rivers, canals and marina managers can order aluminum and coastal areas throughout Florida and signs alerting others to the presence of in neighboring states. Because imper- manatees in the area. Boaters and padiled manatees are generally slow-moving dlers can request packets that include a and must surface to breathe air, they are safety tips card, a waterproof boat banner especially vulnerable to collisions with and a decal to adhere to your vessel with fast-moving watercraft. Boat accidents the number to report manatees in distress. are the primary cause of human-related of Order free materials at savethemanatee. manatee deaths. According to the Florida org/resources. Fish and Wildlife Conservation CommisSave the Manatee Club was founded in sion (FWC), most manatee deaths from 1981 by singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett watercraft collisions are caused by blunt and former Florida Governor and U.S. Senforce impact, meaning that the speeds at ator Bob Graham to protect manatees and which boaters are traveling are causing their aquatic habitat. For more information strikes with deadly force. Those manatees about manatees and the club’s efforts, go that survive bear scars from their injuries. to savethemanatee.org or call 1-800-432In fact, most living manatees have some JOIN (5646).
Athletic Injury and Performance Florida high school athletes are pushed to perform at high levels, year-round. Whether that be in multiple sports or with single-sport specialization, it puts them at a high risk for overuse injuries. When you get pain while throwing, squatting, or with certain movements during the game, it can be hard to know if you should just push through it or if it’s something that may result in full-on injury if you keep going. The Good News! Many of these aches and pains, if caught early enough, can have simple fixes when properly assessed and treated. But, you could put yourself at risk for more serious injury… If you try to play through the pain. You could cause injury to the muscle, ligaments, or joint, or even change the entire biomechanics of your pitch/swing/etc. Treating an ache versus over-use damage to the body, then re-training movement biomechanics and building back up the strength and endurance to perform at the level you were before, can be the difference in days of rehab compared to months. Unfortunately, it only takes one throw/kick/etc. to cross that line from ache to full-on injury. High school athletes training year-round need to have a relationship with a trusted medical professional familiar with these cases. At Motion ChiroTherpapy, we see athletes involved in everything from baseball to swimming to horseback riding. And it’s not just back pain...many of these athletes have their own individual goals in mind. Some want to get rid of pain they get while playing, others come wanting to pitch faster or stronger at higher counts. Dr. Lutz and Dr. Price create individualized rehab plans to accomplish whatever their patient’s goals are, whether it’s rehabbing injury or training biomechanics for optimal performance. If your high schooler is training year-round, it’s not IF they will get injured, it’s WHEN. Trust the professionals and get treated like a pro at Motion ChiroTherapy.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
Page 9
BSHS BULLS STATE CHAMPS... CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Happy
By Nick Nahas
pell, who hadn’t been lead the pitching tapped in nearly a staff all season month prior to the long, calling alregional final. He remost every pitch, corded saves in two also went 2-for-3 straight playoff wins in the champileading up to the fionship game. He nal. When he was was impressed called upon in relief with Chappell’s of senior Florida In- Mayke Hayes pinch runs and score the winning run, poise in the bigsending the Bulls to the State Championship. ternational University gest game of the signee David Eckaus year. in the fourth inning, he “I had no doubt that promptly got out of a Chase was going to finjam with runners on first ish the game,” he said. and second with no outs “His curveball and fastand an inherited 2-0 ball were really working count. He recorded the for him. Our pitchers last 12 outs to preserve were consistent throughhis team’s 5-1 victory. out the season and were Wilken said that Chapdominant on the mound, pell fixed something in and our hitters were his mechanics during a Marlon Bowen’s (Senior) bat was on fire locked in throughout the this season. team scrimmage playoffs.” before the regionThe Bulls are al final, and that, expected to make along with his cool another run for the demeanor and title next season competitiveness, with 16 returning gave Wilken the players, includconfidence to use ing shortstop and him as his number Clemson University one reliever. commit Colby Shel“My mindset go- The Bloomingdale neighborhood and Rep. Andrew ton, ace pitcher and ing into the game was Learned presented the Bloomingdale Bulls with a Stetson University proclamation. to get outs and comcommit Jack Owens pete like I know I can,” said Chappell. “My and leadoff hitter Drake Harman. goal was to get out of that inning with the “Next year’s seniors sure have a hard exleast amount of damage done, and we did pectation to live up to, because this year that as a team. It was a little nerve-wrack- wasn’t easy at all,” said Bowen. “With that ing going in, but I knew we could do dam- being said, I know that they can overcome age control and get out of it.” anything if they stick together and build a Catcher Wyatt Strickland, who helped bond with each other.”
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
AREA SERVICE ACADEMY TAMPA BAY SPEECH, LANGUAGE & READING CLINIC MOVES TO A APPOINTEES PREPARE FOR SUCCESS By Michelle Caceres NEW LOCATION By Libby Hopkins High School (appointTampa Bay Speech, Laninto the therapy process guage & Reading Clinic has and makes progress a lot been providing speech, lanfaster. “We become very guage and reading evaluaclose with our families since tions and therapy services we are working so closely to infants, toddlers, schoolwith them,” Kogut said. “It age kids and adults in Branhas always been my passion don and the surrounding to be a speech-language areas since 2001, in addipathologist and to help tion to physical therapy, kids with a variety of difhandwriting therapy and ficulties. Speech-language other evaluations. Tampa Bay Speech, Language & pathology not only encomThe business recently Reading Clinic has been providing passes articulation and lanmoved to its new location speech, language and reading guage disorders, but also at 16144 Churchview Dr., evaluations and therapy services treats children with autism, Ste. 109 located down- to infants, toddlers, school-age apraxia, cleft palate, Down stairs in Park Square in kids and adults in Brandon and syndrome, voice disorders, Lithia. Speech-Language the surrounding areas since 2001, hearing impairments, fluenalong with physical therapy, Pathologist and Director handwriting therapy and other cy disorders, reading disorJulie L. Kogut is the owner ders, dyslexia, agraphia and evaluations. of Tampa Bay Speech, Lansensory feeding disorders.” guage & Reading Clinic. She The clinic also treats adults graduated with her maswho have suffered a head ter’s degree from the State injury or stroke as well as University of New York at voice fluency and accent Buffalo in 1994 and has reduction. been practicing speech-lanMoving to their ofguage pathology since she fice’s new location at Park graduated. “I opened the Square has enabled Kogut clinic in September 2001,” and her staff to treat their Kogut said. “The clinic’s forclients in a great new space. mer name was All About “We love being a part of the Kids Pediatric Speech Services. The name Lithia community,” Kogut said. was changed in 2008 to have it realized To learn more about the services offered that we’re also specialists in reading and at Tampa Bay Speech, Language & Readtreatment of adults as well, hence the ing Clinic or to schedule an appointment, name Tampa Bay Speech, Language & visit www.tampabayspeech.com, go to its Reading Clinic.” Facebook page @tampabayspeech or call Kogut and her staff have a family-based 368-2485. Its office hours of operation are approach which incorporates the family Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
ed to the U.S. Air Force Academy), Savanah Holt of Riverview High School (appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy) and Samantha Vest of Tabb High School in Sun City and Katherine Ward of Riverview High School (appointed to the U.S. Military Academy). FishHawk resident Andrew Fischer (far right) was one of eight students Students who are acnominated by Congressman Vern Buchanan to receive an appoint- cepted receive a free ment to a service academy. four-year education in return for a commitment Tens of thousands of young people ran the gauntlet last year, completing appli- to serve five years in active-duty military cations from their senators or congressio- after graduation. “I congratulate these outstanding nal representatives in the hopes of being given a nomination to one of the country’s young men and women for their appointfive prestigious service academies: the ments,” said Buchanan. “I wish them the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Acad- best of luck and have full confidence that emy, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Coast they will serve our nation with honor.” The next step on the students’ journeys Guard Academy or U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The academies are four-year is a type of basic training, an indoctrinapostsecondary institutions that combine tion program to guide their transformaeducational excellence with military offi- tion from being civilians to military academy cadets or plebes prepared to enter cer training. Receiving a nomination was only the the four-year officer commissioning profirst step in the process, though. The can- gram. FishHawk resident Fischer said he has didates then had to complete the rigorous application process to their chosen acad- been preparing for this moment his entire emy: complete the online application and life and is excited to begin his military camedical examination, take a physical fit- reer. “I am going to be forever grateful to ness assessment and be interviewed by an academy representative. A happy few, ap- Congressman Buchanan for nominating proximately 9.8 percent of applicants, are me to the Academy,” said Fischer. For more information about the prooffered an appointment to an academy. Eight students nominated by U.S. Rep- cess of applying to a service academy, https://www.whitehouse.gov/serresentative Vern Buchanan received an visit appointment to a U.S. Service Academy. vice-academy-nominations/steps/ or visit They are: Andrew Fischer of Newsome each respective academy’s website.
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July 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HOPE FOR HER IS THERE WHEN WOMEN ARE IN CRISIS
By Kathy L. Collins
Hope for Her is a families during local nonprofit that the busy summers. provides a safe place We built a new for women who have 10,000-squareexperienced crisis foot facility where and trauma to find we can accommothe strength, skills date 400 families a and support they month, offer classes need to rebuild their and provide a comlives. The organizaputer lab for womtion was founded in en in need of GED, September 2003 by ESOL and Microsoft Cheryl Hickman, the training.” executive director. The new building Hickman said, “Hope was made possible for Her is based on Hope for Her is a local nonprofit that helps women thanks to the memmy own experience in need. From housing and childcare to employ- bership and leadof being a single ment, Hope for Her helps women who are experi- ership of Bay Life encing trauma or crisis find the strength they need. parent and my life Church as well as hitting rock bottom.” the broader community. The new building During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hope was dedicated on June 25. The communifor Her was completely shut down from ty was invited to attend. March 2020 to June 2020. HowevHickman said, “We are expanding into er, thanks to a supportive community, classes starting in September. We will Hope for Her was able to resume ser- offer Wellness Wednesdays from 6:30 to vices and more in a brand-new building. 8 p.m. Each week we will offer a differHickman explained, “We had been in a ent class. One week will be nutrition, then 1,500-square-foot modular building for Zumba, then emotional health and then the last 15 years. Bay Life Church pro- yoga. On months with five Wednesdays, vided it to us as an in-kind donation. We we will offer a self-care class.” started building a new facility three years Hope for Her is in need of both donaago. Construction was completed on June tions and volunteers. In you can, please 22, 2020. We were able to move into our consider giving gas cards, bedding, small expanded facility and start offering ser- appliances, housewares, clothing, towels, vices to the community.” shoes and new underwear, including bras. Hope for Her gets busy over the sumIf you would like to volunteer, please mer months. Hickman said, “At our peek stop by its location at 140 Yarbrough Rd. during the summer, we typically receive in Brandon and fill out an application. If about 400 calls for services. In our old you are in need of help, please call 309building, we only had the capacity to 3357. serve 100 families a month. We were For more information, please visit turning away three out of every four www.hopeforherfl.org.
Page 11
Page 12
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FLAMINGO FLOCKS SIGHTED ON DONATORS’ YARDS THANKS TO LOCAL GIRL SCOUT TROOPS
By Annabelle Caraway
the troop now has their sights set on Europe. “On the plane ride back, we again voted and agreed we would head out to London after graduation. Girl Scouts have five centers across the world to visit. One of them is called Which is which? Local Girl Scouts make fun poses to finish up a house. the Pax Lodge and Flamingos have been flocking to neighis located in London. We are going to visit borhoods throughout FishHawk and Chanthis world center to learn about Scouting ning Park as a fun way for creative stuin the area, do all the fun things London dents to fundraise. Local Girl Scout Troops has to offer and then take the train over to 3512 and 621 are raising money for a trip Paris to tour the city,” said Carrie Alexanto Europe by flocking the yards of donader, one of the troop leaders. tors. This fundraiser will help cover air travel Girl Scouts unleashes the G.I.R.L. in evand hotel costs. ery girl—Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker Troop 621 heard about this trip and and Leader. These two troops have exemjoined forces with Troop 3512 in the fall of plified the values of their organization with 2019. this fundraiser. ‘Outside of the box’ is just one way to deWhen a donation is made, members scribe this fundraiser and even with some flock the donator’s yard with plastic flahesitation the outcome has been overmingos. After 24 hours, the flamingos are whelmingly positive. Alexander commentcollected. ed on the impact it has had on her: “For me, Troop 3512 has been visiting Girl Scouts it’s seeing the maturity of the girls. This is centers for the past few years to grow and not a fundraiser we would have been able expand their knowledge of how to be leadto do a year or two ago. The girls are all ers. In 2016, Troop 3512 visited the birthgrowing into young ladies and are hanplace of Girl Scouts in Savannah, Georgia. dling the whole process very well. They are After having a memorable time in Georgia, scheduling their time, driving themselves they decided on the next goal: New York City. In 2019, their goal was accomplished, and using their GPS to drive all around. I and they visited the Girl Scouts of the Unit- could not be more proud of them.” To make a donation, visit www.gsflamined States of America headquarters. goflocking.com or contact fvtroop3512@ Through hard work and determination, gmail.com. all their trips have become a reality, and
Volume 20, Issue 7
BLOOMINGDALE LITTLE FREE LIBRARY TURNS ONE By Ariana Pedraza A year ago, on July 3, 2020, Bloomingdale resident Melanie Martin started a Little Free Library in her front yard after seeing them in other areas and realizing her community did not have one. Run by Martin, her husband and her four boys, the library features many kinds of books, including ones by local authors and illustrators. Many of the featured authors were found through word of mouth or social media, and books are often given happily in exchange for the exposure. “When everything shut down last year,” Martin explained, “a lot of people were walking past our home, so I thought it would be a cool thing to have in our neighborhood.” The Little Free Library has spread beyond just a place to exchange books. Throughout the year, Martin has found many ways to become more involved in the community and encourage kids to read. During the holiday season, the family set a box out by the library where kids could mail their letters to Santa. Parents would leave a return address and stamp, and Martin and her husband would write back personalized letters back to each child. Through her project, Martin has also
found ways to encourage reading this summer. The Little Free Library’s Summer Reading Program turns reading into a game through bingo cards where kids can keep track of how and where they read for a treat at the end. The prize for participation is a water balloon party at the book box as well as a bag of goodies. The book box does not stop there. Martin’s sons came up with the idea of ‘book buddies’ as well. During the holiday break, about 50 stuffed animals were set up by the library with a tag explaining that their book buddies were there to listen to them read. The library offers events for adults too. It has done book giveaways for adults, using community donations and adding homemade bookmarks. “It’s the community’s box,” she explained, “I don’t feel like it’s really mine—it belongs to the community. Their donations have kept it alive, and I am grateful, all I do is promote it. My goal with it is to promote local and get the community involved.” To find more information, follow @LFLBloomingdale on Facebook and Instagram. For more on Little Free Libraries, visit littlefreelibrary.org.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
HILLSBOROUGH EDUCATION FOUNDATION AND KIWANIS ISSUE SCHOLARSHIPS
By Kate Quesada
Students One of throughout the partHillsborough ners is the County are one Kiwanis step closer to Club of reaching their Ta m p a . goals thanks According to the generosto Oestreity of two local ich, over groups. Hillsthe past borough Edu20 years, cation Foundathe Kiwantion (HEF) and is Club of the Kiwanis Students throughout Hillsborough County benefitted recently from T a m p a Club of Tampa scholarships issued by Hillsborough Education Foundation and and Tamand Tampa Kipa Kiwanis the Kiwanis Club of Tampa. wanis Foundation issued scholarships last Foundation have given out nearly a half-milmonth that will help local seniors further lion dollars in scholarships through Hillsbortheir educations. ough Education Foundation. The scholar“Hillsborough Education Foundation ships help deserving Hillsborough County is proud to support graduating seniors’ Public Schools students achieve their goals dreams of continuing their education at a of going to a university, community college university, community college or technical or technical college. college through our community scholar“In Kiwanis, internationally, our goal is ships,” said HEF CEO Kendra Oestreich. kids. We think the future is really tied to More than 200 Class of 2021 Seniors good education. We feel in our community were awarded more than $500,000 in there’s a lot of kids who need help financialscholarships, ranging from $500-$15,000. ly in being able to get into college. We’ve Nine of these students graduated from been very pleased to partner with HillsBloomingdale High School and five from borough Education Foundation in our proNewsome High School. grams,” said Dave Rogoff, Tampa Kiwanis “We never want families’ incomes to be Foundation president. a barrier for students to reach their fullLast month, the club awarded $20,500 est potential. These scholarships can help to eight high school seniors. reduce that financial strain, positively [imEstablished in 1987, HEF is a nonprofit pacting] students’ lives and the future of focused on strengthening public education our community,” said HEF CEO Kim Jowell. by supporting teachers and empowering HEF teams up with business partners, students to achieve academic and personal community organizations and individual do- success. HEF’s resources and financial supnors to fund the scholarship program. port enrich K–12 educational experiences “We are grateful to the partners who and provide equity in education for all stushare our beliefs and are investing in the dents. Learn more at educationfoundation. next generation through our programs,” com. said Oestreich.
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MAN WALKS 100 MILES FOR VETERAN MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
By Michelle Caceres
Families may be drivams. “I had people ing long distances this invested in my expesummer to vacation at rience and grateful to top travel destinations, me for honoring the but one FishHawk man memory of their loved left his car in the gaones who died by suirage, laced up his combat cide.” boots and went on a 100Ohio resident Erica mile walk in May to raise Warner was one of awareness for veteran those invested folmental health issues. lowers. Her cousin, Army veteran Clay Ad- FishHawk resident and Army veteran Clay Michael Stangelo, Adams walked 100 miles in May to raise ams said he was spurred who had post-trauto action after reading awareness of veteran mental health issues. matic stress disorder a post on Facebook that suggested people (PTSD), attempted to end the demons he walk or bike 100 miles to honor veterans carried from his overseas tour in the United who had lost their lives to suicide. States Marine Corp. He succumbed to his in“May is Mental Health Awareness Month, juries on June 15, 2016. and I saw the post and told myself, ‘I can “When I saw Clay’s post, I had to reach walk 100 miles in a month,’” he said. out and offer him encouragement,” said The thought that the task might be physi- Warner. “He is helping to bring awareness to cally challenging didn’t cross his mind at the an issue dear to my heart and keeping my time. “I still think I’m 20 and didn’t realize cousin’s memory alive.” how taxing this would be,” he said. So, quitting wasn’t an option. Adams isn’t 20. He hadn’t worked out in As he walked, he’d think about the men more than two years, and between a full- and women who lost battles with personal time job, completing a master’s degree in demons they never asked to fight. He concounseling with a specialization in equine-as- sidered the emotional toll six deployments to sisted mental health and raising a family, he Afghanistan had on his own mental health. didn’t have a lot of free time. On May 29, Adams completed the last 13 The first night, he walked 3.1 miles. As he miles of his journey. continued walking each night after his chil“This has not only been an emotional exdren had gone to bed, his feet became swol- perience but an educational one as well that len and inflamed. He considered quitting, but I’ll draw from in many ways for a long time,” realized he couldn’t because what had start- said Adams. ed out as his own personal goal had become The Veterans Administration (VA) has a so much more. variety of mental health resources, informaHe had been posting his journey on Face- tion and treatment options. book, and not only were friends and family For information, visit https://www.menmembers commenting, but also perfect talhealth.va.gov/suicideprevention. Veterans strangers. who are in crisis, should call the Veterans “It became impossible to stop,” said Ad- Crisis Line open 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN HEF’S GRADUATE JUMPS INTO THE SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE THIS STATE TITLE FOR POLE VAULTING SUMMER By Lily Belcher By Pauline Derry Hillsborough can find donation Education Foundrop-off bins. dation (HEF) is Along with this, currently holding there are several its annual school other easy opporsupply drive to tunities to help. help students in “The best way need receive a to get involved is quality educato host a drive,” tion during this said Mike Mcupcoming school Collum, chief adyear. This sumvancement officer mer, from now at HEF. through Thursday, “We have marSeptember 30, The second annual Stuff the Bus Supply Drive is being keting materials held at Westfield Brandon on Saturday, July 31. the group is coland boxes to give lecting supplies to businesses who such as backpacks, pencils, want to host a drive and crayons and paper to restock we even pick up the dothe shelves of its Teaching nations after the drive is Tools Resource Center, a free over,” he added. store where teachers from Since the pandemic is Title 1 schools can come and still affecting some busishop for supplies twice per nesses, HEF offers ways semester during the school to help remotely, such as year. holding a virtual school Due to the COVID-19 outbreak last year, supply drive where you can donate a cash HEF had to clear the shelves and give out amount on the website or purchase needed more products than typical because stu- school supplies on its Amazon Wish List, dents could no longer share supplies. As a which ships directly to them. result of this, the group needs more help Although the group collects most of its than ever to reach its goal and ensure it donations throughout the summer before has enough supplies for every student to the school year starts, HEF welcomes dohave the appropriate materials to succeed nations all year round and you can find a in the classroom. list of the top 20 most needed school supOn Saturday, July 31, HEF is putting on plies on its website. its second annual Stuff the Bus Supply For more information, visit https://edDrive event held at Westfield Brandon, ucationfoundation.com or contact Laura where you can drop off supplies in its Grucza at 574-0274 or lgrucza@educaparking lot or inside the mall, where you tionfoundation.com.
After three years “My coaches, family of dedication and and friends have training, graduatdefinitely been the ed Newsome High reason for all my School senior Kylie accomplishments Clark won the state so far in the sport. title (Class 4A) in They were there for pole vaulting at me through the bad the state track and practices, the good field championships meets and everyin Jacksonville. In thing in between.” addition to beating Clark also credthe 59 other female ited her success to Newsome High School graduate Kylie Clark jumped athletes, Clark tied her CrossFit train12’4” to earn the state title for pole vaulting. her personal best of er Rashah Davis 12’4” from the seaat Inspired Mobile son. Fitness, who she began “This has been my goal working with after the since sophomore year and coronavirus prevented her it was incredible to finally from participating in track be able to achieve it,” she and field events, and to her remarked. teammates, who provided Clark’s accomplishment the necessary moral supwas not her first achieveport during long practices. ment as a pole vaulter. “My team this year was She began pole vaulting in really, really special to me,” her sophomore year after Clark gushed. “I’ve never undergoing surgery from been a part of a team with a foot injury, which motia bond as strong as this vated her to find a new passion outside of one. I am so proud of all of them and their competitive gymnastics. In her first year accomplishments and they all have a speon the Newsome track and field team, she cial place in my heart.” broke the high school’s record by nearly a In the fall, Clark will be attending the foot when she jumped 11’1” (the previous University of South Florida on an athletic record was 10’2”). Her early success, bol- scholarship, where she will compete on stered by the support of her high school USF’s track and field team. coach, Kevin Sharpe, and club coach, Sean “Being a college athlete has been my Young, led her to her accomplishments. dream since I was about 7 years old, so I “My coaches help me every day on and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to make off the track. They have always pushed me it come true,” she said. “I’m so excited for to be the best that I can be,” she explained. this next chapter of my life.”
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
LOCAL NEIGHBORHOODS RECEIVE GRANTS FROM COUNTY
By Kate Quesada
Could your neighas residents and memborhood use a dog bers can also stop by park or an exercise the restaurant or trastation? Nineteen ditional gym as part local neighborhoods of their Fit-Trail expeare able to fund rience.” projects designed to The Sandhill Villas enhance and comcommunity in Fishplement their comHawk Ranch held a munities this month picnic in May to make thanks to Hillsborgood use of the mulough County. tiple items purchased The Hillsborough due to their grant. County 2021 NeighAccording to Sandborhood Mini-Grant The River Hills Homeowners Association was hill HOA board member Program recentDarrel Allen, who took one of 19 local groups awarded mini-grants ly awarded up to from Hillsborough County. The group used the the lead in surveying funds for a Fit-Trail in the community. $5,000 in grant residents regarding funding to help comideas for the grant and munities with specifworked with a resident ic projects, including volunteer committee the erection of bat and the Hillsborough houses and the instalCounty Office of Neighlation of a floating borhood Relations to fountain to improve prepare and submit the algae control and ingrant proposal, the macrease the fish popujor theme of the grant lation in a pond. request was to increase The winning comopportunities for resmunities and neighidents to get to know borhood associations one another and come in Southeastern Hilltogether more frequentsborough County are Sandhill Villas HOA President Susan Stack- ly through social gaththe Bloomingdale house looks on as board member Darrel Allen erings. Items purchased addresses the residents of Sandhill Villas Neighborhood Asso- regarding the various items received through through the mini-grant ciation, which used included a community the Hillsborough County 2020 Mini-Grant the funds to improve grill, a tiny library, an Program. communication and outdoor brochure holdvisibility through its social media and web- er, large movable shade umbrellas, pop-up site; Lake St. Charles Community Develop- shade tents and several portable tables. ment District; Nottingham Villas at Kings “All of these items will enable us to host Point Homeowners Association; Osprey more resident activities comfortably, espeLanding of Ruskin Homeowners Association; cially over the hot summer months, as prePavilion Property Owners Association; River viously we did not have any shaded area in Hills Homeowners Association; Sandhill Vil- which to comfortably come together,” said las Homeowners Association, which used the Allen. money to purchase park umbrellas, canopies, Sandhill Villas residents expressed their folding tables, a park grill and a tiny library; appreciation to the Hillsborough County Savannah Landings Homeowners Associa- Board of Commissioners for making the tion; and Valencia Lakes Property Owners mini-grant program possible, while also givAssociation. ing thanks and remembering the members “These projects help bring neighbors to- of our Armed Forces at this Memorial Day gether and foster community pride,” said weekend picnic event. media contact José Patiño. As part of the grant requirements, each The River Hills Homeowners Association grant recipient must provide a report and was awarded a matching grant to build a photos documenting the successful comple10-station Fit-Trail in the community. tion of their project. According to River Hills resident Stefan The Neighborhood Mini-Grant Program is Smith, the trail is a little over a mile and will administered through the Customer Service be used by residents of River Hills and mem- & Support department’s Neighborhood Relabers of the River Hills Country Club. tions team. To learn more about the Neigh“The equipment is all being installed by borhood Mini-Grant Program and other volunteer efforts,” said Smith. “We are also neighborhood initiatives, visit HCFLGov.net/ partnering with the River Hills Country Club MiniGrant.
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Page 15
NEWSOME FLAG FOOTBALL’S SHIVE NAMED COACH OF THE YEAR; QB SILVESTRI RECEIVES PLAYER OF THE YEAR HONORS
By Nick Nahas
the sidelines supporting each The honors keep rolling in for and every player. I really rethe Class 2A state champion spect him for giving us all of Newsome Wolves flag football his time, knowledge and atteam. Third-year Head Coach tention to make us a top-perJustin Shive was named the forming team. When I heard Florida Dairy Farmers 2021 he won Coach of the Year, I Flag Football Coach of the Year was beyond happy for him. I and star junior quarterback wanted him to get it so badly Devyn Silvestri was named the because there is no one more Class 2A Player of the Year. deserving. He’s an incredible The team MVP racked up person and coach.” the statistics, connecting on Shive credits his team for 320-of-490 passes for 3,798 Newsome quarterback Devyn him win the award. helping yards and 54 touchdowns, Silvestri was named the Class high praise to his gave He while leading her team to the 2A Player of the Year. star quarterback as well. Class 2A State Championship “Devyn has been what against a top-ranked Westwe’ve built our program ern High School team. The around since she came team captain also rushed for here as a freshman,” said 500 yards on 84 carries with Shive. “We found out 13 touchdowns and had 16 inhow good of a player she terceptions on defense. was—as a quarterback, “Winning Player of the we worked and develYear is a result of hard Third-year Head Coach Justin oped her, and she’s a work, and I’m thankful to be recognized for that, but Shive was named the Florida Dairy once-in-a-lifetime player I couldn’t have done it with- Farmers 2021 Flag Football Coach with how good of an athof the Year. lete she is. Our program out my teammates elevating their game and making plays,” said Silvestri. owes a lot to her for the amount of work “This award is not only a result of what I she’s put in and how much she has develaccomplished, but a reflection of my whole oped over the last three years.” Silvestri has one thing in mind when it team helping me get to this point.” Shive led Newsome to the Class 2A state comes to next season. “I have one goal next year and that’s to title with a 22-1 overall record. He was selected by his peers and the media as the win another state championship,” she said. Florida Dairy Farmers Coach of the Year, “I want us to bring home another state tibeating out Robinson High School’s Joshua tle. It’s a very difficult path getting to states because we have a lot of great teams in our Saunders. “Coach Shive is one of the most dedicat- district, but I believe in my team and coached coaches I’ve ever played for,” said Silves- es. We can do it if we continue doing what tri. “He can be hard on us, but he’s also on we’re doing together.”
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
LEAVEN BREWERY TO BREW WITH LOCALLY GROWN HOPS By Brian Bokor The past 15 The plants, which months have been grow upward quite the ride for similar to vines, Jillian and K.J. have been studied Lynch, owners of using two differLeaven Brewing, ent types of trellocated at 11238 lis, straight verBoyette Rd. in Rivsus ‘V’-shaped, as erview. Not only well as three difdid they have to ferent heights in scramble throughorder to ascertain out 2020 to save which method Riverview brewers Jillian and K.J. Lynch of Leaven Brewery are planning to use locally grown hops in an upcoming release. their growing yields maximum business, they results. time keep custommid-2010s, the University also welcomed their first child, Winter Rae, ers coming back. Florida farmers are interested in the reof Florida began experiin May. One of the ways the Lynchs were Legislative menting with hops at the search, but the ability to grow the plant is able to adapt also opens an interesting con- changes required Gulf Coast Research and not the only challenge. Overall, crop qualiversation for Florida brewers about locally a food service liEducation Center (GCREC) ty is what will be needed to garner accepgrown hops. cense, so again the in Wimauma based on tance of locally grown hops and ultimately “It’s so nice to get back to beer and be- couple was forced skyrocketing demand of test the crop’s commercial viability for both ing able to focus on the ingredients behind into making a costthe product thanks to the farmers and brewers. This is where Leaven beer,” said Jillian. “It’s what makes craft ly decision by havexplosion of small craft as well as several other local breweries get ‘craft.’ We just received 10 pounds of locally ing to acquire their involved with the program. breweries. grown dried Cascade hops to be used in an own food license to Brewers are invited to the farm and asked Florida brewers traditionupcoming release.” remain open. Fortunately, adding a kitchen ally purchase hops from outside the state to rate the hops based on aroma strength and The two have experienced far more than was also in the couple’s long-range plans with the majority coming from Washington, quality as well as oil and resin production. To expected since opening their neighborhood with a new kitchen concept for the brewery Oregon and Idaho where the climate is ideal date, the Cascade variety has shown the best brewery over three years ago. The first two now being discussed. mainly due to the length of light received results of the 14 planted, which is fortunate years saw steady growth driven by excep“We had to reach into savings and spend during the growing season. Shipping fresh as this is a popular choice of many brewers tional word-of-mouth reviews from around when money wasn’t coming in,” said K.J. hops, hop pellets and hop oil to Florida is ex- with Leaven looking forward to using their the community, then came March 2020 “Continuing to invest at a time when many pensive and can take days, with the harvest 10-pound allotment in an upcoming release. when the couple was forced to close the businesses were closing their doors was not season limited to late summer and early fall. UF has taken the lead on this and other tap room and offer to-go only service due comfortable.” With Tampa Bay area’s nearly 80 breweries nontraditional crops being grown at GCREC in to COVID-19 restrictions. Thanks to ongoing support from the lo- and approximately 300 statewide, the need order to enable local farmers to sustain and Although distribution plans were in Leav- cal community (affectionately named ‘The for local sustainable hops in Florida was un- profit from high-value products such as hops, en’s future, the immediacy of the situation Leaven Fam’), the brewery prevailed over all deniable. artichokes, pomegranates and blackberries. threw uncertainty and untimely cost into setbacks and came through stronger than Visit UF’s Facebook page @UFHortLab To solve the problem of not enough sun, how best to accomplish this and other goals before. research added LED lights over the crops in or YouTube channel (UF Horticultural Crop for the brewery. Starting with crowlers, “We were able to keep every employee on order to extend daylight until 11 p.m. during Physiology Lab), where videos of the projthen bottle releases and eventually settling staff throughout the pandemic and did not the growing seasons. Additionally, due to ects headed by Professor Zhanao Deng and on six-packs, the staff worked continuously lose any of our 144 Mug Club members,” relatively warm winters, Florida farmers Assistant Professor Shinsuke Agehara can towards finding the best way to keep their said Jillian. enjoy two harvests per season compared be viewed. Visit www.leavenbrewing.com for business moving forward and at the same As for those locally grown hops, in the to only one from states in the northwest. more information on Leaven Brewing.
License# CHC433643
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
TECO CONDUCTS ANNUAL TRANSMISSION LINE INSPECTION By Lily Belcher Neighbors who noticed low-flying heli- a hot spot, they inspect further and analyze copters last month did not need to be con- the issue and report it to us to resolve.” cerned. On June 15, Tampa Electric CompaThe inspections took place from 8 a.m. ny (TECO) began the annual inspection of until sundown each day throughout June, Tampa Electric when the weather transmission permitted. Local lines as part of law enforcement an ongoing inwas notified and spection of the was aware of the company’s transhelicopter pamission equiptrolling the area. ment. The aerial “These inspecsurvey requires a tions allow us to single low-flying proactively replace helicopter to fly equipment before within the view it fails, which helps of urban and rural to maintain reliabilroads and neighity. We like to do borhoods, but citthese inspections izens should not before the peak of A OneSpan helicopter will be used to survey TECO’s be alarmed. storm season,” said “The inspec- 1,300-mile system of high-voltage transmission lines. Jacobs. tions are part of This inspection the company’s was part of TECO’s ongoing mainte10-year storm nance of transplan, which aims mission equipment to provide the highest to reduce outage times for customers after level of reliability,” said a press release from extreme weather events. The plan invests TECO. as much as $150 million a year to trimming The survey is conducted by OneSpan trees, converting overhead lines to underPowerline Services of Birmingham, Ala- ground lines and surveying company transbama, which was hired by TECO to ensure mission equipment. This helicopter survey the validity of the inspections. Homeowners is part of the annual budget and comes at can expect a helicopter to fly 30 to 300 feet no extra cost to customers. As a result of above the lines while workers use a mix of its Storm Protection Plan and mission to infrared technology and traditional camer- improve reliability, TECO has reduced moas to inspect TECO’s 1,300-mile system of mentary power outages and strengthened high-voltage transmission lines. wooden poles to prevent them from falling “They look for ‘hot spots’ along the lines, down or breaking in strong winds. which can indicate a problem with a line For more information, visit tecoenergy. or equipment,” said Tampa Electric Media com or contact Jacobs at cljacobs@tecoSpokesperson Cherie Jacobs. “If they find energy.com.
Page 17
LITHIA SPRINGS REOPENS SWIMMING AREA By Amy Schechter opening is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; the second slot is open from 2 to 6 p.m. The hour in between allows the staff to sanitize the area in preparation for more guests. In addition to the spring-fed swimming area, the park includes diverse plant communities, cypress swamps, Lithia Springs Conservation Park is now open again for swimming. hardwood hamThe long wait is over. After more than a year, Lithia Springs Conserva- mocks, picnic tables, hiking trails and tion Park has reopened the ever pop- more than 40 campsites. All campular natural swimming area. In the af- sites have at least 30 amp RV hookups termath of COVID-19, the park’s staff with numerous having 50 amp hookmembers are acutely aware of the ups. Most campsites are 40-80 feet in need for public safety. Therefore, the length and can accommodate a variety reopening includes capacity limits, so- of setups. It’s the perfect place for cial distancing and separate swimming you and your family to explore Florida’s natural wonders. Plus, camping slots. Park Manager Mike Simons is very sites are available for nonprofit 501(c) excited for guests to experience the youth groups, which offer a more rugrefreshing hideaway, saying, “We’re ged camping experience. Lithia Springs Conservation Park is the only natural spring in Hillsborough located along the Alafia River at 3932 County. We have 72-degree water that Lithia Springs Rd. in Lithia. They are you don’t have to drive to the beach open in spring and summer from 8 a.m. for. It’s in your backyard, and if you have never experienced it, it’s simply -7 p.m. There is a $2 entry fee per vegorgeous.” He noted that people come hicle to enter the park and guests must from all over Hillsborough as well as pay an additional $2 per person 1 year Polk County to cool off and escape the of age and older for wristbands to enter the swimming area. For more inforsummer sun. Swimming times are currently divid- mation on the park and camping fees, ed into two four-hour swimming time visit http://www.hillsboroughcounty. limits, with a maximum capacity of org/en/locations/lithia-springs-park or 200 swimmers per time slot. The first call 744-5572.
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Wellness Day Q&A with Dr. Kelly King, ReLeafMD
July 24th • 11 am - 1 pm
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Page 18
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Mad Hatter Tea Class, Water Conservation & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
our waterways from becoming an explosion of unsightly litter at Keeping Tampa Bay Beautiful’s annual After Fireworks Cleanup. This event will take place on Monday, July 5 from 8-11 a.m. at either Courtney Campbell Causeway South Trail or Cypress Point Park. Trash bags, water and gloves are provided, plus promotional giveaways while supplies last. Visit www. keepingtampabaybeautiful.org/events to register.
Water Conservation Rebate PreExecutive Director And CEO Of sentations Available The Tampa Hillsborough ExReducing water use when possible is pressway Authority Announces imperative to ensure enough water pressure for essential uses and public safety Retirement After four decades in the transportation industry, Joe Waggoner, executive director and CEO of the Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority (THEA), has announced his intention to retire in February 2022. THEA is a public agency of the state created by the Florida Legislature to provide local, user-financed transportation services that reinvest customer-based revenues back into the Tampa Bay community. THEA owns and operates the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway, Brandon Parkway, Meridian Avenue and the Selmon Greenway. In August 2007, after a nationwide search, Waggoner was chosen to lead the agency. As Executive Director and CEO, he was faced with the challenging task of making the agency financially independent and able to take on projects that would benefit the Tampa Bay region. Waggoner has been a community champion and critical leader in promoting partnerships for multimodal transportation, transit-orientated development and walkable neighborhoods. “THEA is recognized locally, statewide, nationally and internationally as a premier tolling agency with a forward-thinking approach to finding solutions to regional congestion,” said Waggoner. “That’s a result of excellent leadership by our board of directors and hard work by a lot of amazing and talented people. With the next executive director, I hope that the trend will continue.”
Annual After Fireworks Cleanup
We all enjoy celebrating America’s birthday, but the time comes when we must clean up after the party. Join your fellow residents in helping to protect
in the South County area. Residents who would be interested in learning about water conservation rebates available for shallow wells, smart irrigation controllers and high-efficiency toilets, Hillsborough County Public Utilities offers free educational presentations. Presentations can be requested online using this form: HCFLGov. formstack.com/forms/waterconservationprogram.
Mad Hatter Tea Blending Class At Center Place
Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association in Brandon is hosting a pop-up tea blending class with Regalitea Teas on Thursday, August 12 from 6-9 p.m. Come make your own tea blend wearing your best Mad Hatter hat; best hat wins a prize. Tickets are $40 and include wine, food and tea blending supplies. There will also be a 50/50 raffle and a gift basket raffle. Preregistration and payment is required; call 685-8888 to reserve your spot.
Free Kindergarten Program
Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Creates Citizen Liaison Position
In an effort to further assist the public with the sometimes complicated questions regarding his office, Hillsborough County Property Appraiser (HCPA) Bob Henriquez has created a citizen liaison position to help guide citizens through any uniquely challenging inquiries related to their property. Nereia Cormier Wilson, who is also serving as the HCPA’s special projects administrator, will be taking on the role. “Our first priority is quality customer service to the citizens of Hillsborough County,” Henriquez said. “I believe the position will further enhance our ability to address the more complex issues we face upon occasion.” You can contact Wilson through a contact form at https://dmz.hcpafl. org/liaison/index.cfm and send a brief summary of their concerns or questions as well as attach documents and photographs.
Pepin Academies Names New Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Associa- Chief Operating Officer
tion in Brandon is offering play sessions through Learn & Play Tampa Bay, a free kindergarten readiness program, on Friday mornings from 10:15-11:45 a.m. throughout July. To register, visit www.learnplaytampabay. org or call 426-7529.
Chill Cawfee Hosts Wellness Luncheons
Chill Cawfee will be presenting monthly Wellness Luncheons with
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Dr. Kelly King at Releaf MD. The luncheons will answer questions about CBD medical marijuana, ailments that qualify, products that are available at dispensaries and the processing of state information. Dates for upcoming luncheons are on Saturday, July 24, August 21 and September 18. The luncheons will take place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Chill Cawfee at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. The luncheon charge is $5, which will include pizza from Rosati’s, and space is limited. For more information and a list of instore events, visit www.chillcawfee.com or follow its Facebook page @chillcawfee.
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Volume 20, Issue 7
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Monika Perez, new chief operating officer of Pepin Academies.
Pepin Academies recently announced that it has named veteran educator Monika Perez as its chief operating officer (COO) to oversee its three cam-
puses in Hillsborough and Pasco Counties that serve students with learning and learning-related disabilities. In this role, Perez will oversee internal operations across all of Pepin Academies’ campuses and implement program and facility expansions. Perez has served Pepin Academies for the past 17 years. She began her career with the schools as a director of Pepin Academy High School, then a small nine to 12th-grade charter school, in 2004. “Through the years, Pepin Academies has become a second home to me,” said Perez. “My love for this school and what it stands for now drives me to help others find their ‘home’ in our therapeutic educational environment. As COO, I now have the chance to help unify our campuses and help carry this vision further.” For more information about Pepin Academies, visit www.pepinacademies. com.
Yoga Classes At Center Place
Center Place Fine Arts And Civic Association in Brandon is hosting regular yoga classes. Holy Yoga Flow will take place on Saturday, July 17 from 8-9 a.m. and is geared towards beginners. Hatha Yoga Flow is also on July 17 from 10-11 a.m. and is for both beginners and intermediate yogis. An evening yoga class is available on Wednesday, July 7 and Thursday, July 29 from 7-8 p.m. Evening yoga is also suitable for both beginners and intermediate yogis. All yoga classes are $20. To register, call Center Place on 685-8888.
Dementia And Alzheimer’s Support Groups Now Meeting
Care partners of those with any type of memory loss, whether family, friends or professionals, need to be equipped with the knowledge to best support their loved ones. A great way to learn and share are the new hybrid Alzheimer’s Association support groups which are now being held via Zoom and in person at Tessera of Brandon. One is an evening group and the other is midday. The evening group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. (Zoom meeting number 897 6781 0479, password: evening). The midday meeting is on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 2 p.m. (Zoom meeting number 869 4044 7508 password: support). Tessera of Brandon is located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. Call 607-6880 for more information.
July 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 19
CONNECT WITH HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY’S SMALL BUSINESS COMMUNITY By Libby Hopkins ECC. “We also have numerous weekly events from our community partners.” The ECC recently held the first Local Stories Live this past May, called ‘Papa’preneurs— Dad’s in Business. The session featured local business owners Yanko Hillsborough County’s Entrepreneur Collaborative Center (ECC) in Maceda of Tabanero CiYbor City recently started hosting its live, virtual panel discussions, gars in Ybor City, Robeach focusing on a different small business sector, on the second Friday ert Torres of Blind Tiger of each month at 9 a.m. The Local Stories Live series lets participants connect with local successful small business owners for lively discussions Cafe and Greg Gutierrez of Idle VR. “These on what it takes to survive and thrive as a small business. three business [owners] Hillsborough County’s Entrepreneur Colshowcased what their businesses do in our laborative Center (ECC) in Ybor City recommunity and each talked about their cently started hosting its live, virtual panel journey on becoming successful business discussions, each focusing on a different owners,” Garza-Manahan said. “We did this small business sector, on the second Friday in recognition of Father’s Day.” of each month at 9 a.m. The next Local Stories Live will be held on The Local Stories Live series lets particFriday, July 9 and is called Made in Ameriipants connect with local successful small ca. “We will be showcasing local businesses business owners for lively discussions on here in Tampa that make their products lowhat it takes to survive and thrive as a cally,” Gaza-Manahan said. small business. The ECC has received some very posThe 30-minute discussions will each feaitive feedback on these session thus far. ture three different local business leaders “It has been great and the feedback has and will be followed by a brief question and been extremely positive,” Garza-Manahan answer period. Established business owners, entrepreneurs and anyone interested said. “The business owners love it because in the local business community are invited so many people visit these businesses on a to participate in the sessions and learn why daily basis, but they don’t know who owns supporting local makes all the difference in them. These sessions allow the community to get to know the owners and it makes Hillsborough County. The ECC is a one-stop shop for entrepre- them feel more connected to them.” To attend one of its Local Stories Live sesneurs and business owners. “We have the sions, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/lobest ECC consultants in Hillsborough Councations/entrepreneur-collaborative-center. ty on-site, where they can meet one-on-one with business owners and entrepreneurs The ECC is located at 2101 E. Palm Ave. in looking to start their own business or get Ybor City. Its hours of operation are Monbusiness advice if they are already in busi- day through Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and ness,” said David Garza-Manahan of the Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
By Brian Bokor, Founder www.facebook.com/bokorscorner Welcome to your July update of new developments in the Greater Brandon/Riverview area. Please check respective Facebook pages or web sites for most recent information. Riverview welcomes the addition of their newest ALDI store on U.S. 301 near Balm Riverview Rd. with a grand opening set for Thursday, July 1. The Brandon Main Street project north of Brandon Parkway recently secured a loan to cover the initial phase of a two-phase, 660-unit townhome ‘build-to-own’ development. Developers will be building the single-family townhomes with the intention of renting them out rather than selling. The first phase will consist of a 360-unit project to include a pool, dog park, walking trail, fitness center and fire pits, with additional units and commercial components included in phase two construction. On the north side of Bloomingdale Ave. between Providence Rd. and Gornto Lake Rd., several elevator shafts have been constructed as part of ‘Integra Palms,’ a 335unit mixed-use project. Once complete, the 21-acre development will be the home to 273 apartments, 62 townhomes and 2,000 sq. ft. of commercial space. Further west on Bloomingdale Ave. in the Target parking lot, shoppers will noticed a large fenced off area which will become home to the next EoS Fitness gym
slated to open 2022. In Valrico, the long-vacant Ruby Tuesday location on SR 60 between Valrico and Mt. Carmel Rds. will be demolished and replaced with an Aspen Dental and drivethrough Chipotle on the same site. The much-needed Fire Station 46 in Riverview is expected to break ground in June on Rhodine Rd. With personnel on standby and apparatuses purchased, the new station will house an ambulance, ladder truck and tanker. A unique feature of the station will be an area to decontaminate postfire, eliminating possible carcinogen contamination to the crews and others using the facility. Waterset Sports Complex had plans submitted for the first phase of the 85-acre, county-owned project showing four soccer fields, three covered pavilions, two storage buildings, a playground, a concession building and parking space for 539 vehicles. The Belmont area will see 300 apartments built south of Paseo Al Mar Blvd. near the previously announced 160-unit townhome project adjacent to the Belmont Publix Shopping Center. Lastly, Horizon Apartments submitted plans for a 320-unit complex to be located between Walmart and Serrano Bridge Blvd., north of SR 674 in Sun City Center.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
VIRTUAL SUMMER CAMP CONNECTS CHILDREN TO WILDLIFE FROM HOME
SCHOOLS TO FOCUS ON ACCELERATED LEARNING IN FALL By Superintendent Addison Davis
Staff Report For those not and camp orgaquite ready for nizations a flexin-person summer ible and fun way camp and those to keep curious needing an alternaminds engaged tive to fill a gap in and connected summer experiencto the environes, there is an excitment throughing virtual offering out the summer this summer, and months.” it’s open to families The virtual and camp organizasummer camp is tions. Manatee Lafree for families goon, Loggerhead and individuals Marinelife Center with a voluntary Manatee Lagoon, Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) and Mote donation option Marine Laboratory (LMC) and Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to support the have partnered to offer the Wild About Wildlife & Aquarium have environmental Virtual Summer Camp program for children 6 to 9 and educational partnered to ofyears of age. fer the Wild About missions of the Wildlife Virtual Summer Camp program organizations that helped make this profor children 6 to 9 years of age. The gram possible. New this year, summer weekly virtual summer camp sessions camp organizations can also register to will feature half-day morning schedules access the camp’s content for $50 per filled with animal observations, exper- week for login access of one device. iments, games, crafts and educational “We are incredibly excited to partner lessons hosted by educators from each with LMC and Manatee Lagoon to bring organization. In addition to daily live les- marine science education to youth,” said sons, the camp will include a variety of Aly Busse, associate vice president for prerecorded and supplemental at-home education at Mote Marine Laboratory & activities and printables. Aquarium. “This is an exciting model that “We are thrilled to offer the commu- builds on Mote’s extensive, award-winnity this unique, virtual camp experi- ning, virtual learning programs to proence once again,” said Sarah Marmion, vide highly engaging, interactive and manager of Manatee Lagoon. “Manatee educational experiences throughout the Lagoon is part of Florida Power & Light summer, especially to children who may Company’s commitment to make our not otherwise have access.” communities a better place to live and Camps run through Friday, August raise a family and be responsible stew- 6, and space is limited. To register for ards of the environment. Our hope is that camp, please visit visitmanateelagoon. this virtual program provides families com/virtual-summer-camp.
Volume 20, Issue 7
This is the first in a series of columns Hillsborough County Superintendent of Schools Addison Davis will be writing. This past year, our teachers, administrators and support professionals were champions for children, providing students emotional support and targeted instruction during a historically unique time in education. Students across the nation contended with distance learning, interrupted instruction due to quarantines and mental health impacts that must not be understated. For these reasons, our team of high-quality educators at Hillsborough County Public Schools will focus on an accelerated learning style rather than traditional remediation when returning in the fall. This proactive approach exposes children to relevant grade-level content while concurrently scaffolding the skills from previous years that students may still need to master. In other words, instead of going backward, we will teach strategically in the present. In the past, traditional remediation may have been successful in addressing learning gaps for students over a summer break, where an educator has the time to review all concepts the student has not yet grasped. But the pandemic has changed the way we must engage students who have what we
call “unfinished learning.” In this upcoming academic year, our educators will strategically utilize data to analyze each learner’s skills and tailor lessons to individual needs. What will this look like for your child? It may mean a significant focus on small group instruction coupled with targeted supports based on individualized student data. Our district will spend professional development time with teachers before the school year begins focusing on accelerated learning. Additionally, we will update curriculum guides to highlight prerequisite skills that students may require, making it a more straightforward process for teachers when they return from a much-deserved break. This critical work will require a growth mindset from our students, teachers and caregivers to realize our success. Administrators, educators, parents and students must set high expectations to close these learning gaps while recovering mentally and socially from the effects of the pandemic. We know COVID-19 exacerbated learning loss, but we cannot fall victim to the remediation mentality. Our students are talented, determined and resilient. Together, we will create collaborative learning opportunities that champion student achievement and accelerate Hillsborough toward a brighter future.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
Page 21
21 & CHANGE HELPS INDIVIDUALS FIND THEIR TRUE POTENTIAL By Libby Hopkins
21 & Change is an all-volunteer Florida nonprofit organization that believes in the value of all human lives and that all should have the opportunity to discover their full potential. The organization recently held its Champions for Change Challenge this past May. This is an annual, multidimensional event that promotes inclusion and ability for the differently abled in our community.
21 & Change is an all-volunteer Florida nonprofit organization that believes in the value of all human lives and that all should have the opportunity to discover their full potential. The organization feels that everyone is born with the inherent right to freedom, to self-determination, to dignity and to respect. “We believe in a day when our children will be seen as ‘differently abled’ and not disabled,” said Yani Bodor, director of advocacy and co-founder of 21 & Change. “We believe there will be a day when we end the Down syndrome ‘syndrome’ and secure the full measure of civil rights for the differently abled. We will not rest until what we believe is achieved that champions inclusion, education and human rights for the differently abled.” The organization recently held its Champions for Change Challenge this past May. This is an annual, multidimensional event that promotes inclusion and ability for the differently abled in our community. The event brings together differently abled children and young adults, their par-
ents/guardians, service providers, community leaders and local businesses to witness the abilities and capabilities of those who have developmental disabilities. The format for the event includes a series of fun, scalable, physical exercises and team-based events to demonstrate ability and build confidence in each person and team. Teams consist of both typical and differently abled participants, each with a coach/trainer. The event concludes with trophies and medals for the participants. “The Champions for Change Challenge started as an event to promote inclusion and ability for children and young adults with developmental disabilities,” Bodor said. “We wanted to do something fun, challenging and different that would bring people of all abilities together and help to chip away at the stereotypes folks have about those with developmental disabilities. As the parents of two children who are developmentally disabled, we thought this was important and would be a good thing to do.” Since the first event, the Champions
for Change Challenge has proven to be an emotional event for people who attend or participate. “We’ve had volunteers say they were forever changed by what they experienced during the event with these kids and young adults,” Bodor said. “Parents have experienced a full range of emotions as they watch their children complete exercises, team events and grow in confidence about their own abilities.” The event has grown steadily over the last three years in participation, attendance and fundraising. “We offer sponsorships for local businesses and corpora-
tions and solicit donations from individual donors to support our nonprofit mission,” Bodor said. “We want to attract more differently abled children and young adults and their families to participate in this event. An important aspect to this event is the attendance of community leaders and our state’s representatives.” The next Champions for Change Challenge will be in the spring of 2022. If you would like to learn more about the Riverview-based 21 & Change nonprofit, you can visit its website at www.21andchange.org or call Bodor at 910-273-7049. Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
HURRICANE VOLLEYBALL ACADEMY OFFERS SUMMER CLINICS AND MORE
Volume 20, Issue 7
NEWBORNS IN NEED CELEBRATES A DECADE OF CARING FOR INFANTS IN THE COMMUNITY
By Hayley Fedor
By Kate Quesada
Hurricane Volleyball Academy has travel and local volleyball teams for ages 10-18 for both girls and boys, and this summer it is offering positional trainings, summer camps, free open gyms and, for the first time, college camps for boys and girls, both at the beach and indoors.
Do you have a volleyball player looking for something fun to do over the summer or a home club in the fall? Then look no further than Hurricane Volleyball Academy, based out of Central Baptist Church in Brandon. Owned by Brian and Victoria Adams, the family-run volleyball club offers growth for players between the ages of 9 and 18 at any level. With more than 25 years of combined teaching and coaching experience, Hurricane Volleyball Academy is going into its sixth season for girls and third for boys. The academy has travel and local volleyball teams for ages 1018 for both girls and boys, and this summer it is offering positional trainings, summer camps, free open gyms and, for the first time, college camps for boys and girls, both at the beach and indoors. Brian and Victoria, who met on their first day of preplanning teaching at Eisenhower Middle School, work hard to make Hurricane Volleyball Academy stand out among other local volleyball clubs. “There is no lack of volleyball clubs in the area; what makes us different is our experience with teaching and encouraging youth and our record of achieving college scholarship opportunities for high-level athletes,” said Victoria. “Having been in the education field and athletes for so long, we know how to build not just the skills of the sport but the vital life lessons that only sports can expose you to.” The academy’s coaching staff also includes a sports trainer, nutritionist and sports psychologist that help players un-
derstand what they go through as young athletes and how to achieve their goals. “We believe in teaching and coaching the person, not just the sport,” said Victoria. Recruitment is also offered for college bound players. “Brian’s previous work experience with the National Scouting Report has honed his skills at identifying what players need to make it to the next level in the sport,” explained Victoria. “We have a consistent track record of getting our players recruited to play at the college level. In our first four seasons, we had 84 percent of our 18-year-old players offered a scholarship, and 13 out of the 38 (around 33.3 percent) went on to play in college their freshman year.” Hurricane Volleyball Academy’s main practice facility is located out of Central Baptist Church at 402 E. Windhorst Rd. in Brandon and can be reached at 220-0905. To learn more, email Hurricanevolleyballacademy@gmail.com or search on Facebook and Instagram for ‘hurricanevolleyballacademy.’
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For a decade, NewInitially, “I looked onborns in Need of Valrico line, I read about how has steadfastly supthey support preemies ported infants and their and I myself was a preefamilies during difficult mie at 2 lb., 6 oz., and times and hardships. I know how difficult it Through thoughtfulwas way back then to ly selected items and get preemie stuff,” said handmade gifts, the Mowery “I had no clue volunteers at Newborns what I was getting into, in Need offer love to inbut I knew it was what I fants in the form of care wanted to support.” packages. There are Since its founding in currently July of 2011, the Valrico around 40 volchapter of Newborns in unteers with Need has operated with the organizathe mission “to take care Newborns in Need Founder Sue Mowery tion, some of of sick and needy babies (left) delivers care packages to Nurse-Fam- which are long-distance for families in case of ily Partnership in addition to many other but still participate by organizations throughout the area. crisis to help where help mailing in donations for is needed,” said Sue Mowery, founder and care packages. director of Newborns in Need of Valrico. This year, Newborns in Need of Valrico Newborns in Need currently supports plans to celebrate its special 10-year anniseven organizations in the area, including versary on Saturday, July 10. Customarily, Brandon Regional Hospital, Tampa General the volunteers meet on the second SaturHospital and one of its primary partner- day of each month at the SonLife Baptist ships, Choices in Brandon. Church in Valrico. Each handcrafted care package delivered In honor of the anniversary, Mowery reby the nonprofit includes up to 21 baby flected on one of her most memorable moitems that provide relief for families in dif- ments with the nonprofit and stated, “I saw ficult situations. Every recipient receives a a lady that had a 1-pound baby I got to see. homemade blanket in addition to other ne- She was able to let me see the baby, she cessities like infant outfits, a small toy and gave me permission and it was like our little washcloths. project together to make clothes for that The volunteers at Newborns in Need 1-pound baby.” also make bereavement gifts out of donatFor more information about Newborns in ed wedding dresses for families that have Need and to find out how to get involved lost a baby. With the donations, they create with the organization, visit the nonprofit’s smaller dresses that individuals can select Facebook page @NINCWFL or call Mowery to clothe their infant. at 833-1786.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
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$5 off $50 with Page 40 Brandon Sports And Aquatic Center Is Now High 5, Inc.
On June 4, the community turned out for a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the official launch of the new name for Brandon Sport and Aquatic Center, which is now High 5, Inc. “The change reflects where our organization is now and where it’s going in the future,” said CEO Chuck Burgess. ‘High 5’ references its five pillars of impact: aquatics and youth drowning prevention, after-school education, special needs education, sports and recreation as well as its community initiative. The organization will continue to provide a wide variety of programming options, including swimming, diving and tennis lessons; after-school programs; special needs education; and team and individual sports. High 5, Inc. is located at 405 Beverly Dr. in Brandon. Its hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Heath Wealth Management Welcomes Newest Financial Professional
Heath Wealth Management LLC is happy to announce its newest addition to the team, Will Heath, as the company’s newest financial professional. Will joined the team after completing his Series 7 and Series 66 licenses held through LPL Financial and plans to pursue his CFP designation while working and learning alongside Elijah Heath. To encourage people to start saving for the future, he will be offering complementary portfolio
and planning reviews designed to improvePeeping Moms Ultrasound Boutique celebrates its ribbon cutting. the likelihood of reaching your long-term financial goals and even give some insight on Strathmore Development Compawhat you could be doing better. ny Celebrates Groundbreaking For more information, please contact Will Strathmore Development Company reat William.Heath@LPL.com or call 556-7171. cently celebrated the groundbreaking of its newest partnerships, McAlister’s Deli and Peeping Moms Ultrasound Bou- Woodie’s Wash Shack. The locatique Opens In Riverview tion of these stores will be in the Owner Stormy Goodwin recently celebrat- Riverview 14 development, beed the opening of Peeping Moms Ultrasound tween the Walmart SupercenBoutique in Riverview. Peeping Moms Ultra- ter and I-75 at the southwest sound Boutique strives to be the most up-to- corner of I-75 and Gibsonton date, relaxing and intimate atmosphere for Dr. Woodie’s Wash Shack is a surfer-themed your ultrasound experience and give every automatic car wash with a totally bodacious family a personalized experience to exceed surf crew to serve you. McAlister’s Deli is their expectations. It provides an upscale home to America’s favorite sandwiches, and relaxing environment for expecting soups, salads, spuds and more. moms and families to come together and For more information on opportunities in create those very important bonds, essen- this area, visit StrathmoreRealestateGroup. tially creating a womb with a view. com or contact 517-664-4128. Peeping Moms Ultrasound Boutique is located in the Riverview Professional Park Tire Kingdom Treats Brandon Surat 6320 U.S. 301 and is directly behind the gery Center Team To Lunch Home Depot. For more information, visit In honor of National Nurses Week, team www.peepingmomsultrasoundboutique.com members from two local Tire Kingdom locaor contact 647-9099. tions treated the team at Brandon Surgery
Center to lunch for their ongoing dedication. The Tire Kingdom teams at 1527 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon and 10418 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview came together to show their appreciation by serving more than 100 lunches as part of parent company TBC Corporation’s #TBCDrivenToGive initiative. “We wanted to express our gratitude and honor the team at Brandon Surgery Center and say ‘Thank you’ for the job they do each and every day,” said Shelley Bolen, store manager at the Brandon location.
RV Technician Joins Mobile RV Repair And Services
Mobile RV Repair and Services has added Chris Rimes as an RV service technician to its team. Rimes has 20 years of experience in the remodel and building industry, including three years at Camping World, and his specialty is finish carpentry and electrical systems. Rimes joins Julia Coheley, master RV service technician. Mobile RV Repair and Services technicians are licensed and insured; it travels to your
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... RV for maintenance, repairs, replacements, upgrades and renovations. It will also do prepurchase, return to service and warranty inspections. Mobile RV Repair and Services is located at 918 Silver Palm Way in Apollo Beach. For more information, visit www.mobilervrepairandservices.com or call 753-9303.
Beauty and Health Institute in Tampa, Duncan is certified in all three methods of permanent makeup application. Missy’s Ink is located at 3117 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more information, visit missysink.com or call 6590648.
Tampa Babe Beauty Offers Customizable Lash Extensions
Brandon Dental Care Dentists RecMobile RV technician ,Chris Eyelash extension application is Rimes, joins Mobile RV Repair ognized By Florida the art of applying individual synDental Association and Services. thetic eyelashes to your natural eyelashes one by one to create a new look. Whether you are looking to create a dramatic difference with a full set of glam lashes or wanting to keep your look more natural, eyelash extensions are completely customizable to fit your desired style. Owner Kami Elrod has been lashing for over three years and her perfectionism to her craft and dedication to making her clients 100 percent satisfied is what she believes sets her apart from other lash technicians. Bring this article to your first lash appointment with Tampa Babe Beuty and you will receive 25 percent off. Tampa Babe Beauty is located at 3117 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, inside Missy’s Ink. For more information, visit www.tampababebeauty.com or follow it on Facebook or Instagram @tampababebeauty.
Sprouts Farmers Market Is Coming Soon To Brandon And Hiring Staff
Sprouts Farmers Market will open a new store at 11339 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon on Wednesday, September 1 at 7 a.m. Spouts welcomes shoppers with a farmers market experience and open layout featuring fresh produce, innovative, seasonal and attribute-driven products such as organic, plant-based, keto, paleo and more. Sprouts inspires wellness naturally with a carefully curated assortment of better-for-you products paired with purpose-driven people. The new location is bringing approximately 100 full and part-time career opportunities to the area. Sprouts will host a virtual hiring event on Wednesday and Thursday, July 21 and 22. Those interested in positions at the new Brandon store should visit www. sprouts.com/careers to view openings and apply.
This month, two doctors at Brandon Dental Care, which has been part of the community since 1966, will be recognized by the Florida Dental Association (FDA). Dr. Steve Zuknick will be recognized for his service as a trustee. Dr. Rudy Liddell, past FDA president, will be honored as Dentist of the Year. Together, the staff of this great office have worked a combined 423 years at Brandon Dental Care. Brandon Dental Care is located at 413 W. Robertson St. in Brandon. More information can be found at www. brandondentalcare.com or by calling 508-4888.
LegalShield Opens In Riverview
LegalShield independent associate Christina Nelson is now serving the Riverview area. LegalShield has been offering plans to its members for more than 48 years, creating a world where every person and small business can access legal protection—and everyone can afford it. With LegalShield, you will have access to a quality law firm 24/7 for covered personal situations. From real estate to speeding tickets to will preparation and beyond, it will help you with personal legal matters. IDShield plans also protect your privacy and restore your reputation, offering social media monitoring, unlimited expert consultation, financial account monitoring, reputation management and more. For more information, visit christinanelson. wearelegalshield.com or call 914-376-0615.
Missy’s Ink Moves To New Location In Valrico Missy Duncan, owner of Missy’s Ink, recently moved to a new location. Missy’s Ink specializes in brows, eyes and lips to make women feel beautiful from the outside in with the help of permanent makeup that won’t smudge, smear or wipe off. Missy believes that life may not always be perfect, but your makeup can be. A graduate of the
Volume 20, Issue 7
DEEP SOUTH SPORTS PRESENTS CHAMPIONSHIP WRESTLING FROM FLORIDA: RELOADED!
Staff Report
Wrestling fans, mark Boots, ‘The Techniyour calendars. Deep South cal Alchemist’ DaSports has an event you vid Mercury, ‘The won’t want to miss called Jake of All Trades’ Championship Wrestling Jake St.Patrick, from Florida: Reloaded on Metro Brothers Friday, July 9 at 7:30 p.m. (Chris and Joey in Tampa. Colon) with Skinny According to Co-Talent Vinny, ‘The Cuban Coordinator Edwin NeHeist of the Cengron, the event will showtury’ Romeo Q and case some of the best and ‘The Reinforcer’ brightening wrestling talAndrew Anderson. ent. CWF alumni at the “We are bringing wresevent will include tling entertainment to ‘The Devil’ Kevin the community during the Sullivan, The Cupost-COVID-19 pandemic ban Connection w/ era we live in,” said Negron. Fantasy and ‘The The inaugural event One & Only’ Debwill pay tribute to the Deep South Sports has an event you won’t bie Malenko. time-honored traditions want to miss called Championship WresThe CWF has tling from Florida: Reloaded on Friday, that were laid down by a long history in July 9 at 7:30 p.m. in Tampa. Championship Wrestling Tampa, dating from Florida (CWF), one of back to the 1960s the most powerful wrestling promotions with stars like Dusty Rhodes, Ric Flair, Sir to ever start in this state. Oliver Humperdink, Magnum T.A. and Bar“Now, at Reloaded you will be able to ry Windham, who all came from the Bay see some of the legends that have helped area. In 2020, Pro Wrestler Jeff Weaver paved the way and meet the next gener- bought the CWF with plans to rebuild. ation of competitors that will showcase “The CWF gave people dreams of the their talents, charisma and athleticism,” future like I had growing up when I realsaid Negron. ized I could make a living doing this as a According to the event page, com- trade,” said Weaver. petitors appearing will include StateThe event will take place at the Cuban Line (Eddie Taurus and Damien An- Civic Club, located at 10905 Memorial gel), Chance Auren, ‘The Tyrant’ Dagon Hwy. in Tampa. Tickets, which are $15 for Briggs, Snoop Strikes, ‘The Detroit general admission and $20 for ringside, Barbie,’ Marina Tucker, Joey Osbourne, are available to purchase at https://cw‘DeadBeat’ Wolfe Taylor, Ray Beez aka freloaded.com/.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
SUMMER NIGHTS WITH FIREWORKS AND ENTERTAINMENT COMES TO BUSCH GARDENS
Staff Report
For more than menu inspired by 100 nights this backyard summer summer, guests can cookouts with a Busstay late and safely ch Gardens twist. enjoy world-class Adults 21 and over coasters, electrican indulge in new fying entertainglow-in-the-dark ment throughout summer cocktails or the park and more refreshing nonalcoduring extended hours at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Every night through Sunday, Summer Nights is underway at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. August 8, guests can look to the sky for the new ‘Spark! A holic drinks that Nighttime Spectacular,’ featuring an ex- are equally beauplosive new firework and special effects tiful and satisfyproduction. ‘Spark!’ will feature an explo- ing for the perfect end to a summer night. sive array of fireworks and exciting efEntertainment will include DJ Block fects from dazzling lasers to graceful wa- Parties, the all-new ‘Cirque Electric’ show ter elements and dramatic pyrotechnics. and the return of the ‘Turn It Up’ ice skat‘Spark!’ is offered every Friday, Saturday ing show. and Sunday night at 9:15 p.m. from May Celebrate all summer long and visit 28 to Monday, September 6, including ex- again and again with a Busch Gardens Fun tra presentations from Thursday to Sun- Card, with which guests can pay for a day day, July 1-4 for Independence Day and on and play all year, with few restrictions. September 6 for Labor Day. For the price of a single-day ticket to BusLong before the first burst of ‘Spark!’ ch Gardens, the Fun Card allows access covers the night sky, guests can join in the throughout the year, so you can visit again evening excitement with new entertain- and again and experience great events ment, music, food and drinks for the park’s like Summer Nights, Bier Fest, Christmas biggest and brightest summer celebration. Town and more. A new event for this year is the Pre-ParGuests can visit www.BuschGardenty on the Festival Pathway, where guests sTampa.com for more information and will be greeted with glowing lights strung reservations—and to purchase tickets, among the trees, live music and more. The Fun Cards or Annual Passes. Fans can stay stunning visual journey on the Festival up to date with park events, attractions Pathway will spark the spirit of summer and more by following Busch Gardens in everyone. Tampa Bay on Facebook, Twitter and InThere is also a new seasonal summer stagram.
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Volume 20, Issue 7
GRCC REWARDS RESIDENTS FOR EATING OUT AT ANNUAL EVENT
Staff Report
prizes (minimum value of $25), community members must post a picture of their purchase on the Taste or GRCC Facebook group page and tag the selected re s t a u ra n t ( s ) . The GRCC also has an email available for The annual Taste of GRCC is taking place this month with more than 60 local establishments participating. submissions (taste@riverResidents can be rewarded for eating viewchamber.com) for those who do not out this month thanks to the Greater Rivhave a Facebook. erview Chamber of Commerce (GRCC). “We encourage community members to The GRCC rolled out the 2021 Taste invite their friends, family and colleagues of GRCC event presented by Suncoast to participate in the 2021 Taste of GRCC Credit Union on June 1, encouraging resand use our hashtag, #TasteOfGRCC,” idents to support local GRCC restaurants said Caetano. through dining in, getting takeout or orParticipants can win prizes on Win It dering delivery through the end of the Wednesdays; the other prize winners will month. be posted on the Taste of GRCC Facebook “In this initiative, our goal is to ingroup by Friday, July 2. There are no limcrease community exposure and social its to the number of entries, but only one media engagement for our local food prize will be awarded to each winner. and beverage establishments,” said Jeff Further details can be found at www. Caetano, communications coordinator. facebook.com/groups/tasteofgrcc2021 “In this event, participants are supportor www.riverviewchamber.com. Particiing local, having fun, getting out of their pating food and beverage establishments comfort zone to try new restaurants and must be Greater Riverview Chamber of winning prizes.” Commerce investors. If you own a food Community members can win a wide and beverage establishment and you range of prizes by simply visiting the wish to become a part of the 2021 Taste more than 60 participating restaurants. of GRCC, please contact Debbie KirkThe list of restaurants, as well as the land, GRCC director of investor relations, wide range of prizes, can be found on the at debbie@riverviewchamber.com or Taste of GRCC Facebook group. Food can 234-5944. The GRCC is located at 6152 be eaten in the restaurant, picked up or Delancey Station St., Ste. 205 in Riverdelivered to be eligible. view. For a chance to win one of the dozens of
July 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
WAWA OFFERS FREE ADMISSION FOR BOK TOWER GARDENS ON SELECT DATES THIS SUMMER
Page 29
LITTLE FREE PANTRY
IS IMPACTING THE BLOOMINGDALE COMMUNITY
By Taylor Wells
By Laura Marzullo
For those who enjoy of azaleas, camellias and nature and are looking magnolias…showcasing an for something fun and ever-changing work of art,” free this summer, Wawa states the website. has a special offer. On A big part of Bok Tower the last Friday of each Gardens is its plant conmonth from June through servation efforts, including September, it is providthe propagation, reintroing free admission into duction, monitoring and Bok Tower Gardens from management of 64 rare 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mark your Wawa is providing free admission Central and North Florida into Bok Tower Gardens for everycalendars for Summer Fun plant species as part of its one on the last Friday of each month Days fueled by Wawa on from June through September. Take National Collection of enJune 25, July 30, August this chance to see the ever-changing dangered and threatened 27 and September 24. gardens, walk its nature trails, hear plants. Guests can see Bok Tower Gardens is a the carillon music of its Singing some of the state’s rarest 250-acre contemplative Tower and check out its various species in the Endangered activities and events. garden located at 1151 Plant Garden, which changTower Blvd. in Lake Wales. Fifty of those es constantly, as the species’ varied lifecyacres are cultivated gardens, and the rest cle stages provide a different show each are nature preserves and nature trails. season. Built in 1929, “We originally started as Among the most notable attractions at a bird sanctuary and a garden, but our the Gardens is the 205 ft. Singing Tower, founder, [Edward Bok], wanted a place a massive musical instrument with a 60where humans could connect to nature and bell carillon at the very top. The neo-Gothic get away from what he called the ‘electri- tower was designed in 1929 to be a focal fication of Americans,’” said Erica Smith, showpiece for the center of the Gardens. DBA, director of business development at Concerts occur at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., and Bok Tower Gardens. the bells chime on the hour and half-hour. The destination has many garden highVisitors can also check out The Shop at lights, such as the River of Stone, Kitchen Bok, Blue Palmetto Café, nature trails like Garden and Outdoor Kitchen, Pollinator the Preserve Trail and Pine Ridge Trail, as Garden and many others. One of its won- well as many other activities and areas derful aspects is the wildlife, including 126 throughout the Gardens. different bird species as well as the threatTo receive Wawa’s complimentary adened gopher tortoise and endangered east- mission, stop by the Bok Tower Gardens ern indigo snake. entrance gate. No purchase, voucher or “Acres of ferns, palms, oaks and pines reservation is necessary. For more inforfashion a lush backdrop for flowering fo- mation about the Gardens, visit https:// liage and the spectacular seasonal color boktowergardens.org/.
Food, Hygiene items, paper goods— ensemble of food items, paper products the Little Free Pantry is equipped with and hygiene elements allows the comeverything you need. munity to take one step The legacy of a Little forward in coming toFree Pantry has existgether. People are able ed and been nourishto supply the pantry ing neighborhoods for with items they need or many years throughout believe other people will and out of the country need; although, if needand has now come to ed, the congregation Bloomingdale. shared a list of suggestInspired by the creed items. ation, Mike McCorThe Little Free Panty mack, pastor of First is First Presbyterian Presbyterian Church Church of Brandon’s ‘triof Brandon, was interal run.’ As time goes on, ested in having a Little the members will adjust Free Pantry in the comwhat is needed. munity. This pantry is “We will see how located on Morgan St. well it is received in our between the church’s neighborhood” and also Bloomingdale’s Little Free Pantry, Morgan St. entrance located on Morgan Street between the be observant on “how and the Family Prom- First Presbyterian Church of Brandon’s responsible people in ise Day Center. The Lit- Morgan St. entrance and the Family our congregation are to Promise Day Center. tle Free Library boxes restocking it,” said Reynfound in neighborhoods where people olds. take a book or give a book encouraged One of the church members, Keith the Little Free Pantry to develop. Reynolds, is the builder behind the Little “Anyone is welcome to take items that Free Pantry. The congregation is extremeare needed with no questions asked, and ly devoted to what the Little Free Pantry anyone that wants to donate items is embodies. In fact, after six months, if the welcome to do that as well,” said Sandra need for additional Little Free Pantries in Reynolds, chairperson for the Mission the community enlarges, three gentlemen Ministry Team. in the congregation are willing to build This Little Free Pantry is placed with more. the intent that neighbors will help proProviding and receiving goods changes vide for one another. Neighbors are able and impacts lives. The Little Free Pantry to see each other’s battles and feel en- overall allows individuals to create somecouraged to make their days better. The thing bigger than themselves.
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Page 30
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
GET THE DIRT: FREE RESOURCES: CENTRAL FLORIDA GAR-
AUTHOR SHARES EXPERIENCE AND LEADERSHIP ADVICE IN NEW BOOK
BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING™ AGENT
tive phenomenological Attention emerging study, in which indito leaders who want viduals from similar improve and develop backgrounds are interleadership abilities, Dr. viewed. The interviews Kaliym A. Islam has a turned from a purely new book for you. academic study to a Dr. Islam’s new book, fully published book. The 12 Inch Rule of Each chapter is dediProven Leadership: cated to each princiStrategies for Career ple of the 12-Inch Rule Success, shares tips and opens with Dr. Isand tricks for succeedlam’s experience with ing in any career field Dr. Kalyim A. Islam continues to encourage using the strategies. and features stories young leaders and help them reach their the book, Throughout from leaders in manfull potential. Dr. Islam talks to a ufacturing, financial multitude of people about services, government, edtheir experience with the ucation, entrepreneurship rule. and ministry who have ap“The book is almost like plied the rule to their life. an instruction manual on “I was in a college fraterhow to be a good leader,” nity,” Dr. Islam said. “We Dr. Islam said. had to learn a whole bunch Dr. Islam described the of things to get in. One of 12-Inch Rule to be a framethe things we had to learn work of ideas, rather than was the 12-Inch Rule.” a concrete system. He exDr. Islam has seen people plained that across many of many backgrounds, from different career fields, this a college professor to an airman in the military. He has assist- framework of ideas can apply to anyed thousands of emerging leaders in body’s career journey. “One of the things that really excites reaching their potential and communicating their value. He has also been me about this book is that anybody can the author and co-author of seven ad- apply these principles to their life,” Dr. ditional books and plans to continue Islam said. The 12 Inch Rule of Leadership: Provwriting. “I found that the people who were en Strategies for Career Success can able to memorize these rules had a be purchased on Amazon or thetrainsteeper career trajectory than the ones ingproacademy.com and will soon be available in local Barnes & Noble retail who didn’t,” Dr. Islam said. He began researching with a qualita- stores.
DENING CALENDAR AND FLORIDA VEGETABLE GARDENING GUIDE
The University of with notes/remarks Florida Institute of and products currently Food and Agricultural labeled for insect manSciences (UF/IFAS) agement in home veghas many excellent etable gardens. tools for gardeners. For more informaThe Central Florida tion on What to Plant Gardening Calendar and What to Do, you is a favorite for those can access the Central of us that like to get Florida Gardening Calour hands dirty. This endar at http://edis. resource provides ini f a s . u f l . e d u /e p 4 5 0. formation you need on It is a great, free rewhat to plant, what source. You can read gardening tasks to this document and perform and when. the Vegetable GardenThese tasks include ing Guide online, print A Coleus plant. pruning, fertilizing, them or pick up copies at Photo courtesy of Jacqlyn Rivas. scouting for pests and our office. much more. We can purchase a Focusing on the variety of plants that month of July, under are available, but that the category of What does not necessarito Plant, the headly mean they are the ings include: Annuals/ right choice for the Bedding Plants, Bulbs, month or season. Both Herbs, Palms and Veggardening calendars etables. Each categowill help you select ry includes a link to the right plant, which other UF publications can save you time and by topic. For example, money by planting, under Vegetables, okra fertilizing and pruning and southern peas can when appropriate. be planted. Under the For assistance with category of What to horticultural quesDo, the headings intions, call 744-5519 or Ornamental pepper. clude: Trees, Lawns, visit us at the UF/IFAS Photo courtesy of Jacqlyn Rivas.): Fertilizer bans, VegetaExtension Hillsborough ble Garden, Azaleas, Irrigation, Pests on County, 5339 County Rd. 579 in Seffner. Ornamental Plants and Citrus. You can access our calendar of events Another excellent resource is the Flor- at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/ ida Vegetable Gardening Guide at http:// upcoming-events/. Our Florida-Friendly edis.ifas.ufl.edu/vh021. This publica- Landscaping™ Facebook page is locattion provides information about Florida ed at https://www.facebook.com/HCFvegetables and includes yield, days to FL/. We hope to see you at an upcoming harvest, spacing plants and rows, seed workshop soon. Remember to reuse, redepth and transplantability. You will also duce, recycle and repeat. find recommended varieties for our area
By Meghan Reyes
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
Page 31
SENIORS GIVE BACK WITH PB&J SANDWICH PROGRAM By Ariana Pedraza Bridges travel together to Nativity Catholic Church and make sandwiches until their supplies for the day are out. The residents made 130 sandwiches in just one day. Coleen Mercilliott, activities director at The Bridges Assisted Living Community, expressed that making the sandwiches is “a Residents of The Bridges Assisted Living Community making peanut labor of love and the residents look forward butter and jelly sandwiches. to it.” Summer is officially here and a group The residents are also putting together of local assisted living residents are using bags of feminine hygiene products with the time to give back to those in need. Project Lotus Restoring Dignity, which Taking advantage of the summer and delivers them to women who otherwise relaxed pandemic restrictions, the residents of The Bridges Assisted Living would not have access to them. They are Community are making peanut butter actively looking for more service projects and jelly sandwiches with the help of to do. Any nonprofit organizations they the PB&J Ministry at Nativity Catholic can help should reach out to the Bridges Assisted Living Community. Church in Brandon. “We are always trying to help—we The PB&J Ministry at Nativity Catholic want to get involved; please call,” said Church collects sandwiches and delivers Noah. them to the homeless and hungry. Since Any organization interested in enlisting May 13, the residents of The Bridges have the help of the residents should call 413made more than 130 sandwiches and 8900 or email Noah at jnoah@bridgesshow no sign of stopping. retiremtent.com or Mercilliott at cmercilWhen asked why the residents of liott@bridgesretirement.com. The Bridges Assisted Living CommuniFor more information on The Bridges ty chose to participate in the making of Assisted Living Community, which is lothese sandwiches, Janet Noah, director cated at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview, of community relations, said, “The peoacross from the Winthrop Town Centre in ple in the community were so generous Riverview, and offers assisted living and to The Bridges during the pandemic, this memory care, visit www.bridgesretirewas just the way we could give back and ment.com. Nativity Catholic Church is loshow appreciation.” On planned dates, the residents of The cated at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon and can be reached at 681-4608.
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Page 32
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
WOODIE’S WASH SHACK COMES TO LOCAL AREAS THROUGHOUT HILLSBOROUGH By Brian Bokor Based out of just a car wash. Tampa, Woodie’s “We are all about Wash Shack is a the community,” distinctly differhe said. “We want ent express car to get involved wash inspired at every level, by the classic down to cleaning woodie car and the streets. We surf culture of just launched the the 1960s. The Woodie’s Sparkling goal is to provide Clean Crew, who every customer perform neighborwith the best hood cleanups in car wash exour communities.” perience in the Woodie’s supbusiness. All ports a variety of Woodie’s Wash Shack is opening Woodie’s are locations throughout Hillsborough community initiaCounty. equipped with tives focused on free vacuums, have on-site crew members kids, conservation and people seeking opand offer an unlimited monthly wash club portunity. It supports programs like Projprogram. Woodie’s is proud to be a local, ect Uplift, Surfers for Autism and Take family-owned business that is growing Stock in Children. Fundraising opportunifast. ties are also available for groups to raise Throughout Southeast Hillsborough, money for their organizations. you’ve probably seen signs announcing a Crew members working at Woodie’s new Woodie’s Wash Shack coming to your have access to workshops focused on neighborhood. More locations means more building character, developing personal reconvenience for members. These sites sponsibility and creating career goals. They were chosen for their proximity to shop- are learning professional skills designed to ping, restaurants and neighborhoods. Each carry them into the future. new location provides up to 10 jobs. Woodie’s offers a ‘Lifesaver’ program When asked about the newest location for first responders, health care workers, on FishHawk Blvd, Brandon Gary, director law enforcement and military personnel as of operations, replied, “We’ve been work- well as a ‘Family Plan’ for households with ing to get one in FishHawk since I moved more than one vehicle. here. We finally have two in the works, Woodie’s currently has locations in plus the ones in Gibsonton and Sun City, South Tampa and Pinellas Park, with Sun and more … eight in the Tampa Bay area by City, Lutz and Gibsonton locations to open end of 2021, and 15 more in 2022.” soon. Visit woodieswash.com or call 888Gary stressed that they are more than 887-WAVE (9283) for more information.
Volume 20, Issue 7
APPLICATION WINDOW IS OPEN FOR STATE VPK PROGRAM
By Michelle Caceres
The Voluntary Prekin“He was attending dergarten Program (VPK), Head Start in Utah and implemented in 2002 in being able to interact order to give all of Floriwith other children who da’s 4-year-olds access to were at their developa quality prekindergarten mental milestones was experience, is accepting good for him,” she said. applications, and parents Horner said social are encouraged to regisand emotional developter their children as soon ment that takes place as possible. in the classroom enviThe program is deronment is essential for signed to prepare Florida’s growth, including waitchildren for kindergaring, taking turns, sharten and develop the skills ing, expressing needs, they need to become good listening to the needs of readers and successful others, negotiating and students. It includes qualseeking adult help. ity standards for literacy The first step is to skills, strict accountabil- Don’t forget to register your child for apply online and obtain ity, appropriate curricula, Florida’s free Voluntary Prekindergarten a VPK Certificate of ElProgram (VPK). substantial instruction peigibility (COE). This is a riods, manageable class sizes and qualified ‘ticket’ to VPK, which parents can bring to instructors. the VPK site of their choice and complete It is also free to families, doesn’t have the registration process. income requirements or restrictions and is To apply online, parents need an active available to children who reside in Florida email address, a computer, a scanner or and will be eligible for kindergarten in the camera to create a digital version of proof following fall. Parents have the option of of the child’s date of birth and proof of enrolling children in a school year program Florida residency, the child’s social security that consists of 540 instructional hours, number and access to a printer. three hours per day for 180 days, or a sumEarly Childhood and After-School Promer program that provides 300 hours of grams Director Louis Murphy said it’s iminstruction, 10 hours per day for 30 days. portant to reach out to the school you are FishHawk resident Danielle Horner, who interested in and ask what its signup prorecently moved from Utah, learned about cess is for VPK. “The program is based on the VPK program from friends and family. availability and some sites fill up quickly,” Her 4-year-old son Liam is eligible to par- he said. ticipate. She and her husband are explorFor more information about the VPK ing all educational options but definitely program or how to apply, visit www.hillsrecognize the benefits of the program. boroughschools.org/vpk or call 740-7870.
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July 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 33
FIRE RESCUE TASK FORCE 3 READY TO MOBILIZE WITHIN THE HOUR In the wake of the terrible building collapse in Surfside on June 24, the Hillsborough County Urban Search and Rescue Task Force 3 (USAR-TF3) crews started to prepare for mobilization. Unknown to most of the community, the team,
By Marie Gilmore
stack on top of each other as they fall,” added Daugherty. “This is going to be a very slow, very arduous task and our team is on standby to assist.” Within the state of Florida, there are seven task forces setup with multiple agencies making up each task force. In the Miami area, Task Force 1 and Task Force 2 are nearby, and then Special Operations Captain Tony made up of 72 members Tampa/Hillsborough Daugherty. from Tampa and St. Petersburg Fire Rescue makes up Task Force 3. along with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, “Our typical calls would be storm-related, are a group of specially trained fire rescue and we have sent teams as far away as Biloxi staff that must meet stringent training, pro- and we sent a water rescue unit to Texas,” motion and skill level to be selected for the said Daugherty. task force. The purpose of the team is to be TF3 trains for emergency scenarios, inready—within three hours of a call from the cluding structural collapse, and uses all the governor—to activate and deploy and to re- skills and technology at their disposal to resspond to any disasters as directed. cue citizens as a first priority. In addition, the Special Operations Captain Tony Daugh- team provides rescue/recovery, shoring operty has been a member of the task force for erations and debris clearing to get to victims. his entire 20-year fire department career, All necessary equipment, such as special “We can be ready within three hours of re- vibration and sound detectors, cameras, conceiving word from the governor that our task crete saws and drilling equipment, are kept force is needed,” he said. “When we do sim- at the ready 24/7. In fact, said Daugherty, ulations here at the special operations cen- when mobilized, the team brings enough water, we use props, practice with real people ter, food, shelter, equipment and even oxyas victims, we use smoke to try to simulate gen to be self-sustained for 72 hours. what a real building emergency would be.” “We don’t want to put a burden on the The practice and training facility, located at county we are trying to help in, so we come the special operations headquarters on Co- prepared,” Daughtery added, saying he can’t lumbus Dr., is made up of multiple shipping remember another structural collapse this containers with floors, walls, tunnels, stairs significant. and multiple stories. As of press time, the team was on stand“In Sunrise, what we are seeing is what by, awaiting activation. For more information we call a pancake collapse where the floors about the team, visit hcflgov.net/fire.
2021.
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Page 34
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
A KITTEN PLACE SEEKS HOMES FOR YOUNG CATS
By Meghan Reyes
The beginning of volunteers and has March is marked as foster programs for the start of kitten seavolunteers to take son, and every year, home rescues and hundreds of kittens give them basic care. are born homeless and Foster volunteers continue to give birth are also responsible on the streets. for ensuring kittens A Kitten Place is an receive proper soorganization dedicatcialization. Voluned to saving homeless teers can assist with and orphaned kittens surgery, scheduling and cats in the Tampa and coordinating, Bay area. It was estabdata management lished in August 2019 Milan is a kitten available for adoption at A and transporting Kitten Place. by Michelle Bass and rescued animals. Alicia Pollock. “We have res“Myself and Alicia have cued kittens who needvolunteered for several ed life-saving surgery, rescue organizations over amputees, pregnant the years and we learned and injured cats, kittens quite a bit about the world with severe malnutriof rescue,” Bass said. tion and parasitic infecA Kitten Place was estion, among many othtablished to focus on the er critical care cases,” ‘bottle baby’ kittens and Bass said. kittens in need of critical A Kitten Place also care. Since then, it has betakes in special needs gun to take in adolescent cases, such as Milan, cats and pregnant cats. Its a teen kitten who was goal is to provide a safe enon the euthanasia list vironment to birth a cat’s at the county shelter. last litter of kittens. After birth, the mom He was positive for scabies, ringworm and kittens are spayed and neutered and panleukopenia—a virus that can be when they reach the appropriate age. A deadly to cats and kittens. A Kitten Place Kitten Place also rescues kittens that are rescued Milan from the shelter and after in desperate need of medical care. dedicated care, he is now in very good “We find homes for the kittens,” Bass health and is awaiting his forever family said, “Depending on the mom’s demean- to find him. or, we either find her a loving home or reVisit A Kitten Place’s website at turn her to her original home outdoors.” https://akittenplace.org/ or its Facebook A Kitten Place has a group of over 40 page @michlbasskittens.
July 15, 2021
Page 35
BEST BUDDIES IN TAMPA OPENS UP ITS ADULT FRIENDSHIP CHAPTER
By Laura Marzullo
Best Buddies in are based on personTampa is a nonality, age, hobbies, profit organization likes and dislikes in where individuals order to create a with intellectual and genuine friendship. developmental dis“We want to make abilities are included sure that the friendthrough friendship, ships are not forced, leadership and inteand that they would grated employment. genuinely want to Recently, its Adult hangout regardless Friendship Chapter of their affiliation blossomed and has Morgan Heartsfield (left) and Best Buddies mem- with the chapter,” been accommodated stated Heartsfield. ber Dana Brown (right). for adults with and without The members in the Adult disabilities within HillsborFriendship Program often ough, Polk, Pasco and Pinelstruggle with social isolation, las Counties. which was made worse when Best Buddies has been inCOVID-19 discouraged millions corporated within the school to go out of their way to consystem for many years. nect with others. Unfortunate“The Friendship Program ly, some of the participants only allowed in school conhave already been living with nections, which has made it social distancing throughout very difficult for a lot of our participants their life. The adults who join this chapto develop authentic relationships past the ter will be given the chance to experience point of graduation,” said Morgan Hearts- firsthand the importance of friendship, infield, deputy director of development at clusion, kindness and encouragement. Best Buddies International. “I truly believe that nobody was made With the creation of the Adult Friend- to navigate the gray areas of life alone, and ship Chapter, adults are able to continue that there is so much power in communibuilding lifelong bonds with other partic- ty,” said Heartsfield. ipants and put an end to social isolation. Want to join the fun and are older than The chapter consists of events that hap- 23? Sign up by communicating with the pen every month, in-person and virtually. program manager of community engageThis allows everyone to become familiar ment, Dean Mesick, at deanmesick@bestwith each other as well as get involved in buddies.org. the activities. The goal of the chapter is Best Buddies Tampa is located at 4532 for the individuals to develop a connection W. Kennedy Blvd., #287 in Tampa. with another member, who either has or For more information, call 254-9025, does not have a disability. These matches ext. 303.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
DRAMA KIDS INTERNATIONAL HELPS LOCAL CHILDREN BUILD CONFIDENCE THROUGH THEATER PERFORMANCES
By Libby Hopkins
In 1985, Helen and new Drama Kids O’Grady, a popular together to learn TV actress in Austranew skills while our lia, decided to create Take 2 Performance a completely new Academy classes children’s drama progave Drama Kids the gram using various opportunity to try fun and fast-paced their hand at online drama activities theater performancto build children’s Throughout the pandemic, Drama Kids Interes. In our Take 2 pronational has been dedicated to continuing its speaking, acting and gram, we are able to fantastic programming. social skills. Parents provide the developsaw the remarkable benefits of mental education that our program class participation and classes is known for as well as a source of built quickly throughout Austrafun during a time of uncertainty and lia. It was such a success that it constant change.” was brought to the United States Now, as Drama Kids transitions as Drama Kids International. back to in-person classes, it is dedi“We are both proud and excited cated to teaching children of all ages to be the exclusive U.S. provider of the Hel- new ways they can cope and understand en O’Grady Children’s Drama Program,” said the lingering emotions brought on by the Dulcie Mishkin, director of operations for pandemic. “By providing them a safe space FL Drama Kids of Hillsborough and Pasco to explore, our Drama Kids are free to exCounties. “Today, the Helen O’Grady curricu- press themselves fully through scenes and lum has proved so successful that there are characters they create, opening up their over 50,000 students currently attending imagination and having fun with new and classes in over 1,500 locations throughout old friends,” Mishkin said. the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Drama Kids is gearing up for the fall South Africa, Southeast Asia and Europe. and it is very excited to offer after-school Our unique kids’ theater classes are inter- drama classes. “As we finalize the school nationally known for the creative drama year schedule with elementary and middle curriculum and teaching methods that are schools across the Hillsborough and Pasco great fun and highly developmental for all County areas, we are looking for new areas children and teens.” and schools to bring our program,” Mishin Throughout the pandemic, Drama Kids said. has been dedicated to continuing its fantasIf you are interested in bringing Drama tic programming. Kids to your child’s school, go to www.dra“We adapted to an online curriculum, makids.com/brandon-apollo-beach-riverbringing the joy of Drama Kids classes right view-plant-city-fl/ and fill out the interest to children’s homes,” Mishkin said. “Our survey on the In-School Programs page or weekly classes joined longtime students call 489-5899.
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July 2021
FLORIDA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION By Libby Hopkins The Florida Museum van Sinderen, senior of Photographic Arts curator, Hague Muse(FMoPA) is a museum um of Photography, dedicated to exhibiting Netherlands; Jason photographic art as Lazarus, artist and central to contempoassistant professor of rary life and culture. It photography, Univeris one of fewer than 10 sity of South Florida, museums in the UnitU.S.A. and our very ed States dedicated own Marieke van der exclusively to photogKrabben, curator, raphy and one of two Florida Museum of such museums in the Photographic Arts, state of Florida. U.S.A.-Netherlands.” Founded in 2001, The International FMoPA enriches the Photography Comcommunity by operatpetition puts Tampa ing outreach programs Bay and its vibrant to educate children art community into and adults. the global spotlight of FMoPA has just ancritics, photographers nounced the winners and galleries. “It is a of its annual Internatwo-way initiative that tional Photography opens the world to Competition. The panTampa Bay and Tamel of jurors selected 21 pa Bay to the world,” winning images from Carrier said. “The panover 1,300 submisel of jurors selected 21 sions. This year’s allwinning images from around winner is Los over 1,300 submissions Angeles-based artist from five continents. Austin Irving. Her draIf you live in Brandon, matic depiction of Dau these stunning phoGo Cave in Halong Bay, tographs are just a Vietnam, explores the 20-minute drive away.” humans-first approach Every winner of the of modern tourism. 2021 International The winning imagPhotography Compees are currently on tition will have their display at FMoPA images printed and through Monday, displayed as part of July 19. “The idea a group exhibition behind the competiin the FMoPA Comtion is to showcase munity Gallery. In the global medley addition, this year’s of identities, perBest in Competition spectives and ideas winner will receive while allowing the $1,000 and considphotographers eration for a solo exsome room to stumhibition at FMoPA. ble,” said FMoPA’s All winning entries executive director, will be considered for Zora Carrier. “The featuring in FMoPA’s jury panel includes promotional materiprofessionals from als. various fields and If you would like geographic locato learn more about tions to ensure FMoPA, visit its webthat the entries are site at www.fmopa. seen from a mix of org. The museum is perspectives. This located at 400 N. year, we have been FMoPA has just announced the winners of its an- Ashley Dr., Cube 200 lucky to have Wim nual International Photography Competition. in downtown Tampa.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
A KID’S PLACE FOSTERING HOPE GFWC BRANDON SERVICE GALA NETS MORE THAN $500,000 LEAGUE AWARDS THREE Staff Report SCHOLARSHIPS By Kathy L. Collins On June 5, the The recipient GFWC Brandon of the GFWC Service League Brandon Service awarded three League Schol$1,000 scholararship is Calvin ships to three deLarkin, a senior serving local stuat Riverview dents. The funds High School. Larwere generated kin will graduate from a new and in the top 40 very successful Judy Darsey (left), chair of the Scholarship Committee, percent of his event, the GFWC presented the scholarship for the Reynolds and Claire class and plans Bryan Scholarship to Rosie Harrison. Brandon Service to attend FloriLeague’s Spring da International Sporting Clays Shoot and Dinner, held at University. He plans to pursue a major in FishHawk Sporting Clays in Lithia on April engineering and would like to concentrate 10. on either construction or biomedical. He The first award, the Reynolds and Claire would eventually like to teach. Bryan Scholarship, was given to Rosie Larkin is a student-athlete who has reHarrison, a senior at Bloomingdale High ceived numerous awards. He has excelled School. Harrison will graduate sixth in at both cross country and track and field. her class out of 560 students. She has a He has also volunteered with Metropolitan weighted GPA of 7.1 (unweighted 3.8). Ministries, the Riverview Boys & Girls Club Harrison will attend Auburn University and Moffitt Cancer Center. in the fall and aims to major in electrical The recipient of the Pat and Lee Elam engineering. She hopes to pursue a career Scholarship for the Renaissance Woman is in audio engineering and eventually work Yolanda Poore. She is employed with the in a recording studio or for a music tech- Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office as a nology company. Harrison chose this field civilian supervisor in the Identification Debecause of her love of music, math and partment. She attends Polk State College, science. is pursuing an associate degree in criminal Harrison was a drum major for the justice and she has a 4.0 GPA. marching band and also played in the Wind Poore explained that she is attending Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble. She will join college for two reasons: “First, I want to the Auburn University Marching Band and show my grandchildren that you are never play the trombone. too old to pursue your dreams. Secondly, Harrison said, “This scholarship will help I want to apply for other positions withme a lot as I am going out of state for in the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Ofschool. I always wanted to go to Auburn fice.” For more on GFWC Brandon Service because my grandfather went there. I am League, please visit http://gfwcbrandonvery thankful for the scholarship.” serviceleague.org.
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safety precautions. As more people have been vaccinated and sporting events, such as golf tournaments, have been held locally, leaders with A Kid’s Place believed they could move forward with the event while offering a safe environment for guests. “This year’s event was successful beyond our wildest expectations, and a true testament that our community is bouncing back from the pandemic,” added Homes by WestBay Vice President
Beth (Homes by WestBay Vice President and CFO) aand Tony Bradburn (above) as well as Brad (A Kid’s Place CEO) and Amy Gregory (right) participated in the recent fundraising gala for the charity.
The seventh annual Fostering Hope Gala, benefitting Brandon-based A Kid’s Place and presented by Homes by WestBay, raised more than $500,000 on May 8. The Arabian Nights-themed event was held at the outdoor Saunders Pavilion at Zoo Tampa with approximately 350 people in attendance and social distancing. Founded in 2009, A Kid’s Place provides support to children in the foster care system. Its homelike, residential program assists children from birth to age 18 who have been removed from their parents’ care because of abuse, neglect or abandonment. In addition to offering services to meet the social, medical, educational and psychological needs of foster children, A Kid’s Place puts a special emphasis on keeping siblings together in a safe, stable and nurturing environment. “We are absolutely thrilled and thankful for everyone who helped us reach this incredible milestone,” said Brad Gregory, CEO of A Kid’s Place. “Our community has shown us their extraordinary generosity, and their support of our much-needed mission. These funds will go a long way in supporting the children we assist.” This year’s Fostering Hope Gala is the first in-person event held by the nonprofit since the COVID-19 pandemic. It was delayed several months so that organizers could secure an outdoor location that allowed for social distancing and other COVID-19 health and
and CFO Beth Bradburn, who is also the incoming vice chair of the nonprofit’s board of directors. “After a year of observing proper precautions, our guests were thrilled to enjoy a five-star evening and donate to an organization that helps our community’s most vulnerable kids.” Funds raised from the Fostering Hope Gala are used to directly assist in the essential daily health and welfare needs of the children it serves, including food and clothing, health and welfare necessities, fun activities and maintenance needs for A Kid’s Place’s residential facility. Homes by WestBay has been committed to A Kid’s Place for several years. As the largest locally owned, privately held homebuilder in Tampa Bay, Homes by WestBay’s leadership strongly believes in giving back to the local community not only through financial contributions, but also through their time and service. The company was also integral in launching A Kid’s Place’s independent living program, which helps high school graduates who are in the foster care system transition to living on their own. To learn more about A Kid’s Place, visit www.akidsplacetb.org.
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SUMMER MEANS HEAT AND PROPER HYDRATION IS A MUST FOR THE ELDERLY
By Kathy L. Collins
Heat and proped: You should er hydration go never wait until hand in hand you feel thirsty especially for elto drink water or derly residents. other fluids, take According to the sips throughout National Instithe day, drink a tute on Aging, full glass of with “Too much heat medications, is not safe for have a glass of anyone. It is even water before riskier if you are you exercise, older or have drink fat-free health probor low-fat milk lems.” and other drinks This summer, as vaccinated elderly folks begin to get out once “Many seniors again, they need to remember to stay hydrated and look for signs with no added of dehydration and heat-related illnesses. have received sugar, drink alcotheir COVID-19 vaccinations, so they are ex- hol only in moderation and you should never cited to get out and participate in activities stop drinking liquids even if you suffer a uriagain. Unfortunately, they may not be ac- nary control problem. climated to the summer heat, which makes Some of the signs of dehydration include staying hydrated especially important for thirst, dry or sticky mouth, headaches, older adults,” explained Wynton Geary, cramps and feeling lightheaded. health and wellness manager at Senior ConIllnesses caused by being too hot for nection Center. too long are grouped under the name ‘hy“Proper hydration can also improve perthermia.’ These include heat syncope, well-being, aid in prevention of many illness- a sudden dizziness; heat cramps, a painful es, both mental and physical, as well as re- tightening of muscles in your stomach, arms duce the need for many medications,” added or legs; heat edema, a swelling of the ankles Geary. and feet; and heat exhaustion, a warning It is important that elderly people get that your body can no longer keep itself cool. plenty of fluids every day. Water can be If you suffer from heat stroke (symptoms found in foods, both solids and liquids as well include: fainting, change in behavior, temas its natural state. Unfortunately, people perature of 104 degrees, dry, flushed skin, tend to lose some sense of thirst as they age. rapid or slow pulse and not sweating even Many fruits and vegetables contain water. if it is hot), you must get medical attention Here are some tips on how to stay hydrat- immediately.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
Page 41
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CENTER PLACE? PIXIE PAINTERS, FABSTRAQ, DRAWING, WATERCOLORS & MORE By Libby Hopkins
Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is full steam ahead with its summer programming. It has added more children’s and teens’ art classes for the summer as well as adult classes. It is also in the process of developing health and wellness classes to offer to the community.
Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association is full steam ahead with its summer programming. It has added more children’s and teens’ art classes for the summer. “Since we had such a great response to our spring classes, we’ve decided to add more for the summer,” said Center Place’s president, Ryan Odiorne. “It’s great seeing our former artist returning to teach our adult programs as well.” Pixie Painters is an art class geared towards children who are between the ages of 4-5. This class is offered on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. and 4-5 p.m. and Thursdays from 1-2 p.m. Jump Start to Art is for children ages 6-10. This class is offered on Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m., Wednesdays from 4-5 p.m. and Thursdays from 4-5 p.m. Fabstraq, a local abstract artist, offers a children ages 4-6 abstract art class on Friday mornings from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. He also offers a teens and tweens abstract art class on Fridays from 1:30-3 p.m. Joanna Barbolla is a new artist who recently joined Center Place’s staff. “I’m new
to the Brandon area and I’m very excited about being one of the new art instructors at Center Place,” Barbolla said. She will also be teaching abstract art to children ages 1014 on Wednesday evenings from 6-7:30 p.m. There are many classes for adults over the summer at Center Place too. On Mondays, the center offers Contemporary Acrylic Painting from 9:30-11:30 a.m., Freeform Art from 1-3 p.m. and Art Therapy from 6-8 p.m. These three adult classes are taught by Greg Manely. Ron Grote offers Graphite Drawing on Tuesdays from 9-11:30 a.m. and Colored Pencil Drawing from 12:30-3 p.m. for adults. Judy Johnson has been teaching art at Center Place since it began. “I love being back at Center Place,” Johnson said. She teaches adults Oil Painting on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.-12 Noon. Also on Wednes-
days, Kathy Durdin teaches Watercolors to adults from 1-3 p.m. There is another adult Watercolors class taught by Meletha Everett on Thursday mornings from 9:30 a.m.-12 Noon. All summer art classes are four for $45 or pay-as-yougo for $11.25 for the months of June, July and August. The pay-as-you-go option was designed to let children and adults try dif-
ferent classes to see which ones they like or give them the opportunity to take multiple classes. Center Place is working on developing health and wellness programs for the community. The first step in the process is offering weekly yoga classes for $20 each. Yoga is held twice a month on Saturdays from 8-9 a.m. and 10-11 a.m. If you would like to register for any of Center Place’s summer art classes or programs, please call Center Place at 6858888.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
WINTHROP ARTS MOBILE ART FACTORY UNVEILS NEW ART EXHIBIT AT KRAZY KUP coordinator for Hispanic Services Council in Plant City. Saavedra said, “The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory has been a huge hit. The students Come see the newest art exhibit, created by Bryant Martinez and the students in the look forward to it. StuWinthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory, on display at Krazy Kup in historic downtown dents and Plant City. parents alike There is a new art exhibit at Krazy Kup, enjoy the activities that have been introlocated at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. in duced to them and give them the opportuhistoric downtown Plant City. The art was nity to become involved.” created by artist Bryant Martinez and the Saavedra added, “The beautiful art that students who attend the Winthrop Arts the students make is something they take Mobile Art Factory program at Hispanic great pride in. Making the art public, that Services Council in Plant City. everyone can enjoy, only elevates their The artwork was unveiled on May 20. feelings of achievement and aptitude.” The young artists were treated to an artHailey Arechiga, a 6-year-old student ists’ reception with delicious baked goods who attends the Winthrop Arts Mobile and beverages courtesy of Krazy Kup. Art Factory, said, “I like when I can see The artwork features musical instru- what I made and people can see it too. It ments such as banjos. Krazy Kup offers makes me feel very happy seeing it is for bluegrass jams on the first Saturday of everyone.” each month. Throughout the month, they Hispanic Services Council is a commuoffer a variety of event on Friday and Sat- nity based organization working to imurday including local musicians, open mic prove the quality of life of all Latinos by and showings of classic movies. promoting academic success of children Martinez said, “I attended an event at and youth, providing immigration legal Krazy Kup and saw musicians playing. I services, supporting the development of was truly inspired. I took the idea to the healthy communities and promoting leadstudents, and they loved it.” ership and engagement among Latinos. The artwork is displayed in the outdoor The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory courtyard, which Frank and Wenda Trunzo, receives funding from the Arts Council of the owners of Krazy Kup, have graciously Hillsborough County, the Arts Council of allowed Winthrop Arts to use. This is the Plant City, Suncoast Credit Union and oththird art exhibit being displayed which ers. features the artwork of Martinez and the For more information, please visit www. students from the Winthrop Arts Mobile winthroparts.org, www.hispanicserviArt Factory. cescouncil.org, and www.krazykup.com. Annabel Saavedra is the community
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Volume 20, Issue 7
COME BACK TO THE TAMPA THEATRE AS THEY PRESENT SUMMER MOVIE CLASSICS Tampa film fans on Sunday, know that when it July 25 at 3 comes to beloved p.m. and then, classics, there is no if you miss the more authentic way Sunday show, to watch them than see it on Thursin a majestic movie day, July 29 at palace like our very 7:30 p.m. own Tampa TheSome Like atre. The Tampa It Hot will be Theatre’s beloved shown on the Summer Classics big screen Movie Series is on Sunday, back this year afAugust 1 at ter much of its 3 p.m. and programming was then again on cancelled due to Thursday, Authe pandemic. gust 5 at 7:30 “We hope that p.m. this year’s lineup As venues reopen, Tampa Theatre is thrilled to offer its Have fun of all-time favor- Summer Movie Classics Series again after being forced to with Singin’ ite Summer Clas- cancel it last year. Take a trip to downtown Tampa and In The Rain watch a movie the way it should be seen—on a big screen sics—along with on Sunday, in movie palace. our reduced caAugust 8 at 3 pacity and other safety precautions—may p.m. and again on Thursday, August 12 at encourage our friends and fans to make 7:30 p.m. their post-shutdown ‘First Movie Back’ a The comedy Young Frankenstein will be classic at Tampa Theatre,” said Jill Witecki shown on Sunday, August 15 at 3 p.m. and of the Tampa Theatre. then again on Thursday, August 19 at 7:30 This summer, treat yourself to a good film p.m. at the historic movie palace. “And to make Fans of Humphrey Bogart will not want that first trip back to the movies even easier to miss Casablanca on Sunday, August 22 to plan, Tampa Theatre is doing something at 3 p.m. and then, if you missed it, see it on our guests have often asked about—offer- Thursday, August 26. ing each Summer Classic more than once,” Finally, Tampa Theatre will present the added Witecki. silent adventure film The Black Pirate on On Sunday, July 11, come see the Hitch- Sunday, August 29 and again on Thursday, cock thriller North By Northwest at 3 p.m. September 1 at 7:30 p.m. and then again on Thursday, July 15 at 7:30 Tickets for Summer Classics films are p.m. $10 at the historic Franklin Street Box OfNext, Tampa Theatre will present the fice, $12 if purchased online ($7 for memcomedy classic The Big Lebowski on Sun- bers). Silent films are $13 at the box office day, July 18 at 3 p.m. and then again on or $15 online ($10 for members). For more Thursday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. information, please visit www.tampatheYou can see the hit classic Jurassic Park atre.org.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
A symbol of strength, courage and freedom, the bald eagle is an unmistakable creature of nature and the emblem of the U.S.A. The bald eagle has been our national bird since 1782. With one of the largest populations of nesting bald eagles in the lower 48 states (according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission), these birds of prey are quite at home here. In fact, Florida is home to over 1,500 nesting pairs of these native, symbolic birds. Considered a sea eagle, adults can weigh anywhere from 10-14 pounds with a wingspan averaging an impressive 6-8 feet wide. Adult males are known for their stately brown bodies, yellow feet and beak and characteristic white-feathered head. In the wild, they can live from 15-30 years old. Bald eagles are opportunistic birds of prey. Their diets mainly consist of fish, but they will also eat turtles, small mammals, carrion and other species of birds. Bald eagles prefer to live in habitats with open access to water and a plentiful food source; they are commonly found around lakes, rivers, estuaries and coastal communities. Reproduction begins around 4-5 years of age. Once paired, they mate for life and
breeding pairs will return year after year to the same nest to lay their eggs. Bald eagle nests are so large that they can weigh up to 1,000 pounds. On average, bald eagles lay one to three eggs once per year. Eggs hatch on average after 35 days. Bald eagles were once listed as an endangered species on the brink of extinction due to human activities. Habitat loss and degradation, illegal hunting and the use of a chemical pesticide called DDT were to blame. In the 1970s, DDT was outlawed and further protective legislations like the Endangered Species Act were put in place to save these magnificent birds and many other species. Thanks to efforts like this, they were removed from the Endangered Species List in 2007. We must learn from the past and protect the wildlife in which we coexist with. Bald eagles continue to be protected under both the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, which protect the birds, their eggs and their nests from hunting, poaching and harm. Today, populations have recovered and bald eagles soar our sunny skies as a story of success and reminder of our nation’s resilience.
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Golf can sometimes feel like spinning a roulette wheel and having no clue what number will come up. Why does it seem like one day you are hitting a slice and the next day a draw? What the average golfer needs to realize is that golf is a game of percentages, and the better your percentages, the better your play. Imagine a bag of Jelly Belly jelly beans of just piña colada and sour grapefruit. The average golfer’s bag has about half and half and before every swing they shake the bag up and pick one. Fifty percent of the time it will be what you want, but also 50 percent of the time the ball will end up like the sour grapefruit. As you practice and learn, those percentages start to move in your favor. Even Dustin Johnson, Jordan Speith and Tiger Woods have sour grapefruit in their bags. The difference is, in a bag of 100, they may only have three sour
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grapefruits. What I am trying to make you realize is that you should try not to let those poor shots get you down. You can’t always control your shots, and golf is a game of always trying to reach an unattainable goal of perfection. Practice, practice and then practice some more. When my son played high school golf, he would get frustrated when he wasn’t as good as the other kids that spent hours every day practicing. All those hours of practicing kept taking away those sour grapefruit jelly beans while introducing more piña coladas and more shots that you want and less you don’t. Please email me with any questions or comments at golfguyosprey@gmail.com.
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Page 44
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
ROOTED IN BASEBALL: YANKEES OWNER CREATES HILLSBOROUGH TOWN By Charles Nelson Here’s a trivia question for you. What Eastern or Southern Hillsborough community has a direct link with the New York Yankees? Well, it’s Sun City Center, the brainchild of former Yankees owner and real estate mogul Del E. Webb. Several Hillsborough towns boast of historically unique characteristics that initially, at least, once defined the community. For most, however, those historical antecedents don’t describe that community today. For example, Keysville is no longer a lumbering community, and Ruskin is no longer a community based on socialist principles. One notable exception is Sun City Center. Webb was a baseball man, to be sure, but also one of America’s preeminent builder/developers. He envisioned a new, self-contained, active retirement community in Southern Hillsborough County based on his wildly successful 1960 Sun City developed in Phoenix, Arizona. He transported those ideas to Florida by creating Sun City Center in 1961. Today, 70 years later, that town remains true to Webb’s founding vision. At first, Webb was skeptical about exporting his successful Arizona model to Florida. He was, after all, a Phoenix resident, and many of his enterprises were ‘out west.’ Yet, because of his control of the Yankees, he was also aware that the northeast corridor had millions of potential retirees looking, perhaps, to move to warmer places. So, Webb put aside his reservations concerning hurricanes, alligators and swamplands and visited a sprawling 12,000-acre cattle ranch between Wimauma and Ruskin, along U.S. 301. He found his site and finalized
munity sparkled for its opening weekend of January 1, 1962. That first week, 41,000 people visited Sun City Center. The speed with which Sun City Center went from empty scrubland in 1960 to a thoroughly welcoming community in the spring of Opening day in Sun City Center, Dec. 30, 1961. 1962 would asSource: HCC Ruskin Historical Connections. tound modern the purchase of 18,000 acres in January struction crews built developers. The 1961. In May 1961, he broke ground on his the brand-new King’s first homeowners, new community and promised an opening Inn in only five weeks. Frank and Milday of January 1, 1962. Yankees Owner Del E. Webb with Joe Success was achievdred Ward, didn’t Webb vowed that any prospective res- able because Webb DiMaggio. Source: Del E. Webb Corporation just move into Photographs, Arizona Collection, Arizona idents would not only find six affordable borrowed heavily from their new home State University Libraries. model homes ready for their inspection on his Arizona communion April 20, 1962; January 1 but also be able to tour and ex- ty. Crews recycled architectural, building they found all the promised amenities alamine a completed, fully supportive com- and community plans from those already ready in place. munity that would include: erected in Arizona, shaving significant Sun City Center was fully established •Paved and named streets time in development. Pre-cut lumber freby mid-1962, and the community has •Electric, water, sewer, stormwater, quently arrived by train in Wimauma, and flourished since that time. Although there and telephone in place the weather for construction cooperated. have been financial challenges and sev•A town center with meeting rooms, Everything was in the developer’s favor, eral subsequent owners/developers, Sun arts and craft facilities, and a resort-style although Mother Nature did have a final City Center continues to thrive as an acpool surprise for Webb threatening, albeit untive seniors-only community, true to the •A new, modern hotel and restaurant successfully, to dampen his plans. dreams of its developer and baseball moavailable for prospective home buyers In December 1961, two weeks before gul, Webb. •A post office and completed shopping the grand opening, a crippling freeze decenter stroyed nearly all the flora that brightened CHARLES NELSON HOLDS A MA DEGREE IN •A nine-hole golf course, and more. the new community. Undaunted, Webb’s HISTORY FROM GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY Webb knew that infrastructure would crews sent out trucks all over Florida AND TAUGHT AS AN ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR AT HCC (DALE MABRY). HE IS ALSO AFFILIATED have to be operational from the beginning to bring back healthy plants. Gardeners WITH TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER AS A to support a community built far from es- quickly installed those replacements in VOLUNTEER DOCENT, RESEARCHER AND tablished resources. As a result, construc- front of model homes, recreation build- COMMUNITY LECTURER, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON tion to achieve all those promises was ings and King’s Inn. What they couldn’t SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HISTORY. fast and furious. For example, Webb’s con- plant they painted green, and the com-
July 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 45
ZELLWOOD INSTITUTE PROVIDES EDUCATIONAL COACHING By Amy Schechter Sometimes, trial and a wealth of error just won’t cut it, and knowledge. Not you need to rely on the exonly can she help pertise of others for your teachers modify family or business’ needs. the classroom With over 20 years of for students with experience, Carole Yokell special needs, she of the Zellwood Institute also has much opprovides invaluable ederational knowlucational coaching seredge. For examvices. ple, many centers Yokell has worked want to expand, with general education but they often students and individuals run into zoning with special needs both in issues. Through public school classrooms word of mouth, and in the preschool she many have come owned and operated. Her to know Yokell Carole Yokell of the Zellwood Institute love of children is so evas the training provides invaluable educational coaching ident, but her business specialist. She is services. savviness is unparalleled. available to help After earning an MBA in 2013, she began you navigate the murky waters of licensing the Zellwood Institute three years later and compliance so you can complete your because of her passion for education and project and move forward. That way, you her drive to help others. Currently a doc- can grow your business, but, more importoral candidate working on her disserta- tantly, you can focus on your most importtion, Yokell said, “I learned everything the ant clients: your students. hard way by making mistakes, and I found Yokell is available to consult on projects I have so much to offer others.” for daycare centers and preschools, charFor families, Yokell creates organization- ter and private schools, assisted living cenal skills and time management programs ters and gyms. She is also available for infor students from elementary through dividual and group CPR, first aid and basic higher education. She has found that since water rescue classes, even if you are not the world went virtual, students, even affiliated with one of these institutions. For college students, may need a third party example, many local churches and Scoutto come in to provide organizational and ing groups have used her services. In admotivational support. She can tailor a pro- dition, she offers live classes as well as gram to your family’s needs whether your blended and online classes. child attends a brick-and-mortar or online For more information or to schedule a school. service, call 449-0700 or visit myeducaHaving owned and operated a preschool tioncoach.com. You can also email Yokell since 2004 until just recently, Yokell gained directly at clyokell@gmail.com.
813-689-8131 • 3159 E. State Road 60 - Valrico
Page 46
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 7
STAY HEALTHY THIS INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH THESE FOOD SAFETY TIPS By Makenzie Atkins According to the National Hot Dog and them cool. For cold side dishes that have Sausage Council, about 150 million hot mayonnaise mixed in, you need to be esdogs will be consumed on Independence pecially careful. While commercially proDay. Most of these hot dogs will be de- duced mayonnaise does not need to be voured at picnics or refrigerated, once it is outdoor barbecues. mixed with eggs, potaThe question is, do you toes or pasta, it can be know how to safely very dangerous if not prepare and store your kept cool. picnic foods? Dr. Keith Make sure you are not Schneider, a professor “using the same plate or of food science and tongs to put the raw health nutrition at the food on the grill and to University of Florida, take the cooked food helped us learn more off,” said Dr. Schneider about food safety bewhen telling us about fore Independence Day safety rules people tend picnics to avoid getting to forget. “Use a clean sick this summer. plate and tongs for According to Dr. cooked food.” Dr. Keith Schneider, a professor of food Schneider, if you plan Staying clean can also on bringing raw meats science and health nutrition at the University be hard when picnicking of Florida. to cook on an outdoor outside. Washing hands grill, make sure they with soap and water is are prepared before always the best choice, you leave home. When but if this is not possigetting ready to pack ble, using hand sanitizer raw meat, you should is the next best thing. place it in a separate Not washing your hands container and then in or using hand sanitizer a cooler. Using a sepis not an option if you arate cooler entirely is want to stay healthy. the best way to avoid With all the tips and contamination. tricks out there, its hard When it comes to warm side dishes like to remember everything when having a macaroni and cheese or baked beans, you picnic or barbecue outdoors. It is really must be careful with how long they sit important to follow as many safety rules out in the heat. Perishable foods should as you can to stay happy and healthy this only be left out on the picnic table for up summer. to two hours. If perishable side dishes For more information, contact Schneimight be out longer than two hours, al- der at keiths29@ufl.edu or call 352-294ways come prepared with a way to keep 3910.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
July 2021
Page 47
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TENNIS FOR A BETTER LIFE
TENNIS FOR A BETTER LIFE HELPS CHILDREN REACH THEIR GOALS THROUGH THE SPORT
Tennis for a Better Life has purchased land and has the goal of raising $50,000 for its project of building four new courts.
High 5, Inc. tennis instructor and Brandon resident Paul Segodo’s life was changed because of the sport of tennis. He received tennis scholarships that led him to the U.S. from his home country of Benin, one of the poorest countries in West Africa. After college, Segodo started his foundation, Tennis For a Better Life (TFBL), to help kids from his country get the same opportunities that he was fortunate enough to get as a kid. Segodo picked up a tennis racket and was taught the sport by his father, who was a tennis instructor. He laughs about how his family is entrenched in tennis, despite soccer being the more popular sport in his country. At just 9 years old, Segodo was offered a tennis and education scholarship to train at the International Tennis Academy in the U.S. He later received a full tennis scholarship to Palm Beach Atlantic University and earned his BS degree, changing his life for the better. Segodo remarks how
Tennis for a Better Life is a nonprofit organization that’s mission is to help children in the U.S. and Africa reach their full potential in life through the game of tennis.
tennis was his way out of poverty because his parents didn’t have much and couldn’t afford to send him to school. In 2010, Segodo made a trip back to his home country and was astonished by the condition of the courts that the children were playing on. They were playing on the same court that he played on as a 6-year-old. The kids didn’t have the proper equipment to play tennis, the courts were cracked and the nets had holes in them. This inspired him to give back to the children of his home country. “That really touched my heart and really inspired me to do something about it,” said Segodo. “When I came back to the United States, I partnered with my wife and some friends and we started Tennis For a Better Life.” According to the website, Tennis for a Better Life is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit orga-
Tennis for a Better Life provides shoes and tennis rackets, hosts tournaments and feeds children at the events.
nization that’s mission is to help children in the United States and Africa reach their full potential in life through the game of tennis while sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. They provide shoes and tennis rackets, host tournaments and feed the children at the events. TFBL, which funded a court resurfacing in Benin three years ago, has purchased land and has goals of raising $50,000 for its project of building four new courts, purchasing new nets and replacing old ones, building a water fountain by the courts, running weekly clinics, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and providing hot meals to 210 children who will participate in Benin. Contributions are tax-deductible. Another goal of TFBL is to provide tennis and education scholarships to the children whose parents cannot afford to send them to school. In April, TFBL held a Kids Helping Kids tournament at High 5, Inc. (formerly
Brandon Swim and Aquatic Center) and raised $10,000 for the project. It plans to have another Kids Helping Kids tournament in August to raise more money. Segodo, along with TFBL volunteers, plans on going to Africa from Wednesday to Friday, September 1-24 to accomplish their mission. “We want to teach these kids how to fish instead of giving them a fish,” said Segodo. “Tennis has done so much for me. With tennis, I was able to travel the world and get a scholarship. Tennis teaches so many life lessons—Tennis for a Better Life wants to give that same opportunity that I had to other children, where one day they will be able to provide for themselves.” If you would like to donate, you can do so through www.tennisforabetterlife. org or www.freefunder.com/campaign/tfbl-project.
August 31, 2021
Page 48
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Top Producer 2002 - 2020
Volume 20, Issue 7