Bloomingdale/FishHawk 41-48
21
May 2021
Volume 20, Issue 5
Ph: 657-2418
CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF PUBLISHING P OSITIVE COMMUNIT Y NEWS
$3 M ROUNDABOUT WILL RELIEVE WEREWOLF MOVIE TO FILM IN DORMAN & BOYETTE IN 2023 FISHHAWK, EXTRAS NEEDED By Michelle Caceres By Michelle Caceres
Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596
case Pictures, a media and content creation company located in Tampa Bay and formed in partnership with Todd Oifer of Oifer Industries, George C. Romero (son of the late George A. Romero of Night of the Living Dead zombie series) of Romero Pictures, LLC and Ed. It also includes New York-based DIGA Studio and Massachussetts-based Heavy Metalmagazine. Oifer, Briefcase Pictures CFO and FishHawk resident, said the company is seeking Independent film The Beast Comes At Midnight will be filmed at various locations this a private-public partnership to build production studios in the Tampa area and Lexsummer, including Lithia. ington, Kentucky. It’s planning to raise $30 While FishHawk residents may be surmillion through private investors to fund the prised to hear a werewolf will be lurking facility as well as several other films. through their quiet residential neighborWell, jobs and maybe a werewolf, who hood this July, what they shouldn’t feel is has the unfortunate task of wearing a wereterrified or concerned. wolf suit in our sweltering July heat. The hairy beast is one of the main charFor more information about The Beast acters in an old-school monster movie that Comes at Midnight, visit www.thebeastwill be filming in FishHawk and several othcomesatmidnight.com or to follow it on er locations in Hillborough County, including social media. For more information about Tampa, Ybor City and Gibsonton. Briefcase Pictures, visit www.briefcasepicThe Beast Comes at Midnight is a Southtures.com. ern Gothic werewolf feature film produced by Ed McKeever, directed by Robert Masciantonio and stars actors Michael Ashley McKeever, Kylissa Katalinich and Charles Bronson-dead ringer Robert Bronzi as Andras the Hunter. The story is a modernization of the boy who cried wolf and revolves around a young podcaster (Michael) who has a penchant for investigating paranormal phenomena, serial killers and conspiracy theories. He discovers his town is under attack by a flesh-eating beast that hunts during the full moon. Nobody believes him except for a popular cheerleader (Katalinich) and a monster hunter (Bronzi). The concept was born after Ed and his son, Michael, visited the Showmen’s Museum in Gibsonton, a building that houses strange and eclectic memorabilia from the colorful carnival and circus midways of the past. “My son and I saw a display about a Wolfboy and started envisioning a monster movie set among the backdrop of this place,” said Ed. “We wanted to make a horror movie we could watch together, so we 5K FOR MELANOMA.............................PG 3 were going for a fun PG-13 vibe.” In-person and online casting calls are MEET SEN. ROUSON ..........................PG 26 planned and will be posted on social media. EYE ON BUSINESS ...................PGS 25-26 “We’ll also need a ton of extras,” said Ed. The film will be distributed by Brief- SUMMER CAMPS......................PGS 41-48
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reduce injury crashes by 75 percent at intersections where stop signs were previously used for traffic control because drivers in roundabouts tend to be travelling at slower speeds, with all vehicles travelling in the same direction. There is also no rush to speed through a changing traffic light. Maria Jeans, who moved to FishHawk last year, said she’s lived in many communities, but none had as many roundabouts as this one. “I like the In the land where the concept of the octagonal stop sign and r o u n d a bout four-way stop reigns sufor keeping preme, FishHawk residents traffic flowhave learned the art of ing, as long as navigating the roundabout, drivers know a circular intersection how to use where drivers travel counthem,” she terclockwise around a censaid. ter island. Ac c o rd i n g The community developto Florida’s ers’ master plan included D e p a rtment Plans are in the works to install a roundabout almost a dozen roundat the intersection of Boyette and Dorman Rds. of Transportaabouts to aid the flow of tion, properly traffic and plans are in the works for annavigate a roundabout by reducing speed other to be installed at one of the neighas you approach the roundabout, watch borhood’s busy intersections by 2023. Ask any resident to name some of for bicyclists and pedestrians, look left for the busiest (and most dangerous) cross oncoming traffic, yield to vehicles already streets in FishHawk and the intersection in the roundabout, wait for a gap and enof Boyette Rd. and Dorman Rd. may top ter, do not stop in the roundabout or pass the list. County transportation officials other vehicles and use your turn signal to agree, and part of the Operation and Safe- exit to the right. The project is currently in the planning ty Enhancement Program includes installphase and is expected to cost approxiing a roundabout at the intersection. mately $3 million. Construction is slated “This project will improve transportato begin in late 2022 and be completed by tion mobility and safety for vehicles,” said mid-2023. Sandra Gonzalez, design manager for the For more information about the OpCapital Programs Department in Hillsboreration and Safety Enhancement Plan ough County. visit https://www.hillsboroughcounty. According to a study by the Insurance org/en/government/county-projects/projInstitute for Highway Safety and Federal Highway Administration, roundabouts ect-list#/26292.
06/01/2021
FishHawk resident and photographer Matthew Kenney spotted this beautiful owl in one of the conservation areas in Bridgewalk recently.
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WWW.WOMENSCAREFL.COM
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
NEWSOME SENIOR KATIE HALL PLACES THIRD IN STATE SCULLING CHAMPIONSHIP
Page 3
PARK SQUARE PLAZA HOSTS 5K FOR THE MELANOMA RESEARCH FOUNDATION
By Hayley Fedor
By Libby Hopkins
rowers. Her coach, Mike Smith, said, “The weather certainly made it difficult … but even better for Katie that she was able to pull the third-fastest time.” Hall not only has a passion for rowing but also has the experience to match given that she started sculling five years ago as an eighth-grader while attending Randall Katie Hall navigating choppy waters at the Florida State Lightweight Middle School. Sculling Championship in Sarasota. As a student athlete, Hall When the Florida State is a member of the Palm Sculling Championships Riverview Training Cencome to town, rowers ter through which she and find out if they have what other rowers in the Tampa it takes to compete with area come to practice and the best of the best. Well, compete as part of the Plant Newsome High School High Rowing Association. senior Katie Hall rose to Ultimately, Hall’s ranking in the occasion, putting on the state championship race an exquisite athletic perreflects the hard work and formance that concluded with her as a top determi- nation that she puts in each finisher in the race. day as an athlete and as an individual. GoThe state championship competition ing above and beyond, she continuously took place on April 10 at Nathan Bender- shows concern for her fellow teammates, son Olympic Rowing Training Park, located as seen through a project that she set up in in Sarasota, and Hall’s race began prompt- coordination with Girl Scouts to build pullly at 10:44 a.m. up bars for the whole team to use at their “The hardest part of this race was a training facility. strong tail and cross wind. When we got “She’s been a fantastic athlete and team into the middle of the course you could re- member and she’s one of our captains this ally feel the impact of the wind. The water year, which she has definitely earned,” said was white capping which caused a choppi- Smith. ness on the surface,” said Hall. In college, Hall has high hopes of conDespite the rough conditions on the wa- tinuing her rowing career at the University ter during the day of the race, Hall placed of Oklahoma and will be trying out for the third in the competition, racing in a light- coxswain position on the Sooners Division weight single boat against twelve other 1 women’s rowing team later this year.
noma in January 2016. O’Brien’s diagnosis of ocular melanoma also occurred in January 2008; O’Brien continues to have routine scans and eye exams, but thankfully her cancer is still NED (No Evidence of Disease). “Our decision to organize a 5K started back in 2017 once we learned that the Melanoma Research Foundation’s Miles for Melanoma was not going to be held in the Tampa area,” Bernadette said. “Up to this point, we, along On Saturday, October 2 of this year, Park Square Plaza in with family and friends, created a Lithia will host the fourth annual Your Next Step is the Cure Florida CureOM team for the Miles for Melanoma events. Linda and I 5K which is a race for ocular melanoma research. saw a need to continue with this For the first time, Park Square Plaza in mission, raise funds for research and bring Lithia will be host to a popular fundraiser awareness to ocular melanoma.” this fall. The fourth annual Your Next Step In November 2017, the women held their is the Cure 5K is a race for ocular melano- first 5K at E.G. Simmons Park in Ruskin. ma research that will take place on Satur- “We continued holding events in 2018 day, October 2. and 2019 each year, adding on more regOcular melanoma (OM) is an ex- istrants and increasing the dollars raised,” tremely rare form of cancer that affects Bernadette said. “Unfortunately, like so the eye with an incidence of five per million many other race events, the 5K event was adults. Although rare, it is the most com- cancelled for 2020.” mon primary cancer of the eye in adults. The 5K will take place at Park Square Primary means that the cancer began at Plaza on October 2 from 8 a.m.-10 a.m. The that site, in this case the eye, and did not cost to participate is $30 plus the $2.50 spread there from another part of the registration fee. The cost goes up to $35 afbody. ter Tuesday, August 31. “We are extremely The race directors for the 5K event are excited about this year’s 5K event because Bernadette Boyle and Linda O’Brien. Ber- one of the biggest changes is the location,” nadette and O’Brien both have personal Bernadette said. “Linda and I decided to reasons for their passion for this event bring it to FishHawk. Living in FishHawk, I because both women have a strong con- feel this brings this event full circle, a place nection to OM. Bernadette’s husband, Joe where Joe and I lived and where he was an Boyle, was diagnosed with OM in January active community member.” 2008 and in the summer of 2011. Joe and Register for the race at www.runsignup. Bernadette learned of the metastasis from com/Race/FL/Lithia/YourNextStepisthea routine PET scan that he had yearly. Joe Cure or contact Bernadette at yournextlost his battle to metastatic ocular mela- stepisthecure@aol.com.
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Page 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
LOCAL FARM OFFERS ALL-NATURAL GOODS & SELF-SUSTAINABILITY
ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-SOUTH EARNS AN ‘A’ FOR SAFETY
The idea of trying to become self-sus- light—eat right, live right,” it offers a large tainable by growing your own food might variety of honey, eggs, produce, herbs, spicbe intimidating, and many may not know es, coffees, vitamins and more, along with where to begin, but local residents Drs. hundreds of different types of non-GMO, Eric and Jennidisease-free fer Gonyon have fruit trees so done very well you can grow with forming A your own fruits, Land of Delight such as manNatural Farm gos, lemons, & Nursery and moringa, kumwant to help quats, avocaothers become dos and many self-sustainable others. What’s as well. more, the farm Although most has free classmight not have es regarding the kind of land self-sustainthe Gonyons ability through have, Eric empha- Husband and wife Eric and Jennifer Gonyon, owners of teaching aquaA Land Of Delight Natural Farm & Nursery, with their sized that people ponics each children, Emily and Elliott Gonyon. could still learn Saturday at how to become self-sufficient 10:30 a.m. even without much space. “We’ve been very successful; “What I tell everybody is, evwe’ve trained a lot of people on ery single person should grow how to grow their own food, and some of their own food, even if we designed our own aquaponics they live in an apartment,” he systems, which people put in their said. “Maybe not all of their own food, but backyard,” said Eric. “It’s an expethey can grow some of their own food. rience and a teaching ground for people.” And that’s what I try to teach people.” He added, “I think our greatest strength With just one seed and no experience in is we’re just learning as we go and try to farming, Eric and Jennifer started A Land teach what we know, and we encourage of Delight six years ago for their family, everybody to do their own research and wanting to become self-sufficient as well find what works for them.” as show their children where food comes A Land of Delight Natural Farm & Nursfrom and help them discover a passion for ery, located at 2514 Leaning Pine Ln. in growing fresh, healthy, all-natural food, Plant City, is open from Thursday to Friday, such as produce, raw honey and pastured 1:30-6:30 p.m., and on Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 eggs. Then, when others expressed inter- p.m. Curbside service is also available from est and inspiration, the Gonyons opened up Tuesday to Saturday. For more informatheir farm to the community. tion, visit https://alandofdelight.com/ or Operating on its motto, “A Land of De- call 359-9120.
leadership and health care workers who have remained steadfast in prioritizing patient safety as our nation battles COVID-19,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “These grades are a testament to the care and commitment of those who work for BayCare. With the current pandemic exposing existing flaws within the U.S. health care system, we St. Joseph’s Hospital-South was awarded an ‘A’ in the fall 2020 appreciate you putting patient Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recogniz- safety first. Lives depend on ing achievements in protecting patients from harm and providit.” ing safer health care. Developed under the guidSt. Joseph’s Hospital-South was awardance of a national expert panel, the Leapfrog ed an ‘A’ in the fall 2020 Leapfrog Hospital Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 27 meaSafety Grade, a national distinction recogsures of publicly available hospital safety nizing achievements in protecting patients data to assign grades to more than 2,600 from harm and providing safer health care. U.S. acute care hospitals twice per year. The Leapfrog Group is an independent The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is national watchdog organization committed peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the to health care quality and safety. The Safety results are free to the public. Grade assigns an ‘A,’ ‘B,’ ‘C,’ ‘D’ or ‘F’ grade to St. Joseph’s Hospital-South opened in Feball general hospitals across the country and ruary 2015 to bring high-quality health care is updated every six months. It is based on services to Southern Hillsborough County in a hospital’s performance in preventing medan environment designed to help patients ical errors, injuries, accidents, infections and heal. Part of BayCare Health System, St. other harms to patients in their care. Joseph’s Hospital-South features all-private “This recognition from Leapfrog is an patient suites and offers emergency care, excellent barometer of our adherence and surgical services, imaging, intensive care, commitment to clinical excellence and safeobstetrics, cardiac catheterization and more ty,” said Philip Minden, St. Joseph’s Hospiin a peaceful, relaxing and family-centered tal-South president. “Our medical staff and environment. team members in every department at every To see full grade details and access palevel were important and key contributors in tient tips for staying safe in the hospital, this achievement. We have successful provisit hospitalsafetygrade.org and follow tocols and procedures that are steadfastly The Leapfrog Group on Twitter at https:// carried out, and that has been identified by twitter.com/leapfroggroup Twitter and on Leapfrog with our ‘A’ grade.” Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ “We are extremely grateful to hospital TheLeapfrogGroup.
By Taylor Wells
Staff Report
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2021
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FWC SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT ON SALTWATER FISHING RESTRICTIONS By Brad Stager
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Some of the most popan email. ular fish to catch and Implementing a eat along the Southwest catch-and-release Florida coast may soon policy is part of be back on the outdoor FWC’s response living menu. to the risk that The Florida Fish and the fish species Wildlife Conservation were facing due Commission (FWC) to the presence wants to hear from fishof red tide from ing enthusiasts about late 2017 through the next steps in manearly 2019 that aging snook, redfish and affected Southspotted seatrout, which west Florida’s are currently fished leGulf Coast. State gally only on a catchofficials enacted and-release basis. the restrictions as The restrictions exa way to help retend from the Hernangrow the species’ Some of the favorite species for saltwater do/Pasco County line populations and fishing are currently protected by a catchand-release policy in Southwest Florida. south to Gordon Pass in fulfill its mission Collier County and affect fishing in state statement of “Managing fish and wildlife and federal coastal water areas through resources for their long-term well-being Monday, May 31. and the benefit of people.” As the FWC looks beyond the expiration Red tides develop from large concenof the catch-and-release measures, it has trations of algae that can discolor water been holding workshops in communities to a reddish hue. The algae are harmful affected by them to find out from anglers to marine life and can cause problems for how the fish are doing and to solicit ideas people who inhale airborne organisms or about how to protect them from excessive eat contaminated seafood. depopulation. FWC’s Southwest Region The workshop for residents of the Tampublic information director, Melody Kil- pa Bay area and points north was held onborn, said the input is an important part line on April 8. This and other workshops of the decision-making process. have been recorded and made available “Public comments provided during the for viewing online for people who cannot comment period will be used to help deter- attend the live webinars. mine the future short-term management You can find links to live virtual workof redfish, snook and spotted seatrout in shops, recorded workshops and an online Southwest Florida immediately following comment form at myfwc.com. You can the expiration of the fisheries closure FWC also email comments to Marine@MyFWC. executive order on May 31,” she wrote in com or call 850-487-0554.
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Page 6
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL PARTNERS WITH TYTOCARE TO CREATE TGH VIRTUAL HEALTH KIT Staff Report Tampa General ly and feaHospital (TGH) tures built-in and TytoCare guidance are partnering to technology to create the first help ensure innovative ataccuracy and home telehealth ease of use. kit in the Tampa Upon purBay area, TGH chasing the Virtual Health kit, the patient Kit. This at-home downloads The at-home TGH Virtual Health Kit features a handheld kit will provide Tyto device (far left) with (left to right) an otoscope adaptor the free TGH on-demand vir- for examining the ears, a stethoscope adaptor for examining Virtual Health tual medical ex- heart and lung sounds and a tongue depressor for examin- app available ing the throat. ams for patients on iOS or from a licensed provider from TGH’s urgent Android and, using their Wi-Fi or hotspot, care team, TGH Urgent Care powered by connects the device to their TGH Virtual Fast Track. TytoCare is the health care in- Health account. From there, the patient can dustry’s first all-in-one modular device and request a visit with a medical provider who telehealth platform for AI-powered, on-de- can help guide the patient through any necmand, remote medical examinations. essary exams using the device and its atThe handheld TytoCare device with ac- tachments. companying attachments allows patients “The TGH Virtual Health Kit will allow us, to conduct comprehensive medical exams as providers, to perform detailed clinical of the ears, lungs, heart, throat, skin and ab- exams for patients to accurately diagnose domen, as well as heart rate and body tem- common illnesses remotely,” said Paul Nanperature, from anywhere at any time. The da, MD, chief medical officer at TGH Urgent FDA-cleared TytoCare kit includes a built-in Care powered by Fast Track. high-resolution exam camera and thermomThis kit can be used to examine both eter, along with an otoscope adaptor for adults and children. Patients must be in examining the ears, a stethoscope adaptor the state of Florida to use the TGH Virtual for examining heart and lung sounds and a Health Kit. The information recorded from tongue depressor for examining the throat. the TytoCare device is stored in a secure This enables the provider to remotely diag- cloud which complies with privacy regulanose and treat common conditions, such as tions. Only the provider and the patient will ear infections, upper respiratory issues/sore be able to access this information. throat, rashes/bug bites/skin issues, cold To purchase or learn more about the TGH and flu, congestion/sinus issues and stom- Virtual Health Kit, please visit tytocare. ach issues. com/ HYPERLINK “http://www.tytocare. The TGH Virtual Health Kit is user-friend- com/tgh/”tgh.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2021
ADDISON FOUNDATION EXTENDS LOVE AND SUPPORT TO FAMILIES DEALING WITH LOSS By Hayley Fedor Grounded in compassion and reinforced to provide support with grief counseling by kindness, Addison Foundation offers a and provide an outlet to families that place to find love and support for those have suffered the loss of their baby,” said in the community impacted by pregnancy Springs. loss and stillbirths. Springs and the staff at Addison FounOn December 30, 2019, Hope Springs dation persistently work to find coundecided to create Addison Foundation in seling methods that best help each inhonor of her daughter, dividual on a personal Addison Marie, who level, expressing undersadly passed during standing for mothers, pregnancy, before fathers, siblings, friends making her beautiand even grandparents ful entrance into the through their experiworld. Prior to the creence of losing a baby. ation of the foundation, “We want to show Springs worked with a them that we understand, similar organization we have been there and supporting families we want to show comthrough loss; howevpassion, care and super, she truly desired to port,” said Springs. Addison Foundation provides a safe forge her own path and With the goal of prospace for individuals dealing with begin a nonprofit that pregnancy loss and stillbirths to receive viding relief, Addison would allow her to serve support and experience compassion. Foundation hosts events the community more to give back to those in openly and build a foundation more per- need. Each year, the foundation particisonal to her. pates in Brandon Regional Hospital’s annual “I decided to start Addison Foundation Remembrance Ceremony in observation of on the basis that we can start small and Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. work up to grief counseling and then pro- Currently, in precaution of the pandemic, vide help to others,” said Springs. events do not take place in person, but are Through Addison Foundation, families still being held through other platforms. are supported not only emotionally but In addition, Addison Foundation provides also materially with gift baskets. The encouragement and support through its staff at Addison Foundation know that website, which features a blog and highmanaging loss is different for all mem- lights fundraisers going on throughout the bers of the family, and in light of this, gift year. baskets include items such as spa accesTo explore volunteering opportunities and sories for moms and dads, coloring books find out more information about Addison for children and gift cards for food. Foundation, visit addisonfoundation.com or “Our overall goal for the foundation is call 400-0701.
Page 7
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Page 8
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
THC…is it legal? By Brian Bokor, Founder www.facebook.com/bokorscorner Welcome to your May update view (65), just south of Riverview of new developments in the High; and Spencer Ridge (90) and Greater Brandon/Riverview area. South Shore Pointe (190), both Please check respective Facein Ruskin. This equates to 2,215 book pages or websites for most units for those keeping track, with recent information. no slowdown in sight. April 19 saw the long-awaited During the month of May, craft opening of the Selmon Crosstown beer fanatics will be able fill up Gandy Extension, which will give Brandon that growler and take it to-go at Gasparilla commuters a nonstop straight shot from its Pizzeria & Growlers thanks to its recently entrance near the Westfield Brandon mall approved alcohol beverage permit which all the way to Derby Ln. in St. Petersburg. allows the restaurant to not only deliver The 1.9-mile extension, which bypasses the beer but also fill to-go containers. Look for Gandy Blvd. grind, has been in construction a ‘grand opening’ event soon in celebration since 2018. of this achievement. Directly across the Residential development plans over- street, ice cream fans get a Bruster’s store shadowed commercial projects this month, near Firehouse Subs on the southeast corwhich, when completed, will provide neces- ner of Bloomingdale Ave. and Bell Shoals sary additional housing options to fill the Rd. Progress Blvd. and 78th St.—the old demand we have seen in the Tampa Bay Red Barn location of Schiro’s Feed store— market since the onset of the pandemic. will feature a new fast-food drive-through Construction plans have been submitted restaurant along with space for four indifor three apartment complexes: Cause- vidual tenants. way Commons (289 units) and Courtland In the sea, Freedom Boat Club of Tampa Magnolia (319), both located on Causeway Bay will be launching a new location at AJ’s Blvd., as well as Big Bend (400) across on the River in Gibsonton to be ready in from East Bay High. These are in addition May, where folks who want to enjoy Tampa to two new townhome projects in River- waterways but also want to skip the boat view Landing (92)—on Riverview Rd., be- upkeep can choose from a variety of boat tween the I-75 overpass and 78th St.—and rentals. On the land, the River Car Show is Edgewater (292), again on Big Bend Rd., held on the last Saturday of every month in west of I-75, along with eight potential the huge parking area of The River at Tamsingle family subdivisions: Hidden Lakes pa Church. And in the air, anyone wanting (16 homes) and Bloomingdale Subdivision to show off or sharpen their drone skills are (25), both south of Bloomingdale Ave.; Sto- invited to Heroes Paradise on Saturday, May gi Ranch (109 homes, aged 55+) and Balm 1 for a drone scavenger hunt with specials Boyette (204), where Boyette Rd. meets this month for Mother’s Day on the 9th and Balm Boyette Rd.; Creek Ridge Preserve for members of law enforcement the week (124) on Lithia Pinecrest Rd.; Balm River- of Sunday to Saturday, May 9-15.
Most people only know THC or delta-9 THC, which is the the substance that causes people who use marijuana to feel high. But recently, scientists discovered its relative, delta-8 THC, which has become more popular over the past few years because its affects are much less potent than delta-9. The question is…is it legal? Cannabis has 2 species: Marijuana and Hemp. Before the Farm Bill 2018 ascended into law, all cannabis products were illegal. It did not matter whether they are derived from marijuana or hemp. But since the Farm Bill, products that are created from hemp are legal. In Florida this has been solidified through the department of agriculture in their rules and requirements for hemp retail establishments. Now you can legally purchase THC (derived from hemp) at locations like Chill Caw-Fee.
• The U. S. government also has a patent on the antiemetic uses of delta-8, the properties that are responsible for alleviating vomiting. Based on research, delta-8 has been shown to be 200 percent more effective (in some cases) as compared to delta-9, and particularly effective for children (based on a study in Jerusalem). • Delta-8 is much les likely to induce anxiety in high doses, than delta-9, in particular with children. The research from Jerusalem illustrates how delta-8 has been used to treat hundreds of children with cancer. People who experience anxiousness every time they ingest high doses of delta-9 aren’t able to enjoy the cannabinoid’s medical benefits. Thankfully for them, delta-8 may be an alternative. Because it’s an analogue of delta-9 THC, the Federal Analogue Act makes delta-8 federally illegal.
What are the benefits of THC or Currently, extracted delta-8 Is legal to delta-8 TCH? purchase and if you have any additional questions or want to sample products • Delta-8 is able to connect to the same please come in to Chill Cawfee and we CB1 & CB2 receptors as delta-9 THC… will be happy to assist you. these receptors are located throughout your body and are involved in a variety of psychological processes including appetite, pain-sensation, mood & memory. Visit our Facebook page or website for a list of our in-store events.
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May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
CYPRESS CREEK CO-OP OPENS ITS FIRST STOREFRONT
By Lily Belcher
Six years ago, single mom of two Cassie Adams was working as a salesperson at a wholesale market. She would bring fresh produce home to her family by the bin, which would always leave her with too much. Adams reached out to a few families in her neighborhood and began to create a network of families that would buy the leftover produce. By the fourth week, she had 60 families involved, and Cypress Creek Co Op grew from there. Since the small neighborhood group started on Facebook, it has grown to over 28,000 members and opened its first permanent storefront at the end of April. The storefront, which is located in Apollo Beach just off Hwy. 41, will give customers the opportunity to shop for the produce the co-op offers or purchase full bins any time. Cypress Creek Co Op customers who cannot make it to the storefront can order bins online to pick up at walk or drive-through pop-up locations, which Adams and the co-op temporarily set up a day at a time, or have it delivered to them. Customers pay when the bins are picked up or delivered. Cypress Creek Co Op offers opportunities for families to purchase bins of seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as
dairy, bread, meats and flan, from local farmers. “I try to buy local [first] based on what is in season. Most produce has a growing season and purchasing fruits/veggies in season at wholesale amounts can save you greatly,” explained Adams. “Not all produce is local. We do not have any apple orchards here in Florida … they grow in Washington and New York. Grapes grow better in California. I try to shoot for [five] veggies and [five] fruits every week; however, some weeks may differ.” It offers two different bin sizes: medium, which feeds a family of four, and large, which feeds a family of five to seven. Customers can also buy weekly special and extras bins when they make their purchase on Cypress Creek Co Op’s website after paying a $5 annual membership fee. Adams also offers volunteer opportunities for community organizations, such as the Girl/Boy Scouts of America, to help distribute the bins at the pop-up store locations. They also bring meals to first responders throughout the year and migrant families over the summer. For more information or to purchase produce bins, visit cypresscreekcoop. com or contact Adams at 252-258-0199 or cypresscreekcoop@gmail.com.
Page 9
PLANT CITY HOSTS MARKETS AT LAST FRIDAY MONTHLY EVENTS By Faith Miller Plant City Main each month,” Street hosts a Rumbarger said. monthly ‘Last FriDue to the vaday’ event, inviting riety of vendors, families to enjoy there is always a variety of food something new trucks and vendors. to try out each The event inmonth. An excludes an average ample would be of 20-26 vendors during a previalong with eight ous event when to nine food trucks the theme was each month. The Pokémon and a vendors range from vendor created an homemade des“edible Pikachu serts, boutique apcharacter out of parel, cotton candy, peeps.” fresh flowers, face “Each month, I painting, etc. The try to support venevent is located dors that I didn’t in McCall Park at get to support in 100 N. Collins St. the month before,” in downtown Plant said Rumbarger. “I City. do like being surThe event runs prised each month Examples of the variety of food and merchandise on the last Friday with how creative of each month, available to attendees at Last Friday event in down- the vendors get town Plant City. January through with our theme.” October. Each event has its own theme If you’re interested in becoming a venparticular to that date. The list for upcom- dor, applications are available through the ing themes are ‘Schools Out for Summer,’ Plant City Main Street website. The appli‘Dog Days of Summer,’ ‘Harry Potter’s cation fee is $15 and nonrefundable. If apBirthday,’ ‘Super Heroes,’ ‘Fall Festival’ and proved, there is a fee of $60 and the ven‘Halloween.’ The event times are from 5-9 dor is given a 10 x 10 ft. space to set up p.m. within. Vendors are asked to get supplies There is an average of 2,500-5,000 res- unloaded from vehicles between 3:30idents attending the event each month, 3:45 p.m. and are asked to remove their according to Plant City Main Street Exec- vehicles from the site beginning at 4 p.m. utive Director Jerilyn Rumbarger. The atFor more information regarding apmosphere of the event is described as one plying to be a vendor, please visit www. that is enjoyable for all ages. plantcitymainstreet.org. More information “We have worked really hard over the on the event is also available through its last few years to make this event unique Facebook page, ‘Plant City Main Street.’
LIVE BRIGHT SPRING SALES EVENT
Page 10
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
CARE PACKAGE MEAL PREP CO. SPECIALIZES IN CUSTOM MEALS TO FULFILL CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS By Hayley Fedor Ever find yourself for a meal ready in craving a delicious minutes. and nutritious qualThe company’s ity meal but lack mission is “to give the time and energy restaurant quality to put it together? food from real chefs Care Package Meal to people’s homes, Prep Co. has you without preservacovered, serving up tives or hormones fine dining restauor injections,” said rant-quality food Cates. with no GMOs or Cates and his staff Care Package Meal Prep Co. employee E.J. preservatives and an at Care Package Meal Oliveras displaying the quality customer care that abundance of flavor. Prep Co. are all about comes with each and every meal delivery. Care Package meeting the needs Meal Prep Co. got its start of the customers, offering when Owner and Operations unique meal plans for vegans Director Jason Cates decided and vegetarians, in addition to take his experience workto individualized custom meal ing with a national food prep plans for customers with specompany and combine it with cific dietary restrictions like his expertise as a fine dining low-sodium and gluten-free executive chef in many restaurants, includ- options. ing Boca in Brandon. For any occasions or events, Care PackAs a result of the pandemic, Cates made age Meal Prep Co. provides one-of-a-kind the decision within the last year to launch catering as well. The company also works Care Package Meal Prep Co. in order to frequently with the schools in the area to open up job opportunities for food service provide not just healthy but also satisfying employees as local restaurants closed. and delicious food for their events. “Out-of-work service industry was the “We hit any budget for our local schools. main reason for launching Care Package. I COVID-friendly meals that are individhad to look into the eyes of hundreds of em- ually bagged and packed, as well as ployees as I told them that our restaurants COVID-friendly buffet packages,” said were closing, that all restaurants were Cates. closing, with uncertainty and fear. I had to Direct local delivery is offered in Riverdo everything in my power to give them a view, Brandon, Valrico and Lithia. Famichance,” said Cates. ly-style meal prep and meal prep subscripThrough Care Package Meal Prep Co., tions ship anywhere in Florida for free. family-style meals made with fresh, quality To find more information about Care ingredients are presented to individuals via Package Meal Prep Co., visit carepackthe company’s online storefront. Food items agemp.com, or call 913-710-4907 for a come in microwave-safe containers perfect consultation.
Volume 20, Issue 5
THE SHOW WILL SAFELY GO ON AT BUSCH GARDENS Staff Report As Busch Garvative and adaptable dens continues with bringing our to prioritize the productions to life in health and safenew ways and we’re ty of its guests, thrilled to expand our ambassadors and offering to include animals in its care, new programs in adsoon guests will dition to fan-favorite be able to enjoy shows.” indoor world-class Just in time for entertainment be- Starting at the end of this month, guests at Busch Memorial Day weekginning on Friday, Gardens will again be able to watch live shows. end, guests will be May 28. From Turn able to enjoy the folIt Up!, the park’s award-winning ice skating lowing productions on select days beginproduction to an all-new acrobatic show, ning on May 28: Cirque Electric, modified operations in the Turn It Up! park’s theaters will make it possible for Thursday-Monday, multiple shows per guests to once again enjoy incredible shows day. The Moroccan Palace Theater will once as they explore Busch Gardens’ 300 acres again be home to Busch Gardens’ spectacuof exhilarating rollercoasters and fascinat- lar, year-round ice skating shows, including ing animal habitats. Turn It Up!, With contemporary perforIn addition to the park’s already strict mances, dazzling aerial moments and eclechealth and safety measures, which include tic pop music, it’s no wonder this producenhanced cleaning and sanitization, tem- tion has earned a spot on the USA TODAY perature checks and face covering require- 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. ments, many modifications will be in place ALL-NEW: Cirque Electric at Busch Gardens’ theaters upon reopening, Friday-Monday, multiple shows per day. including significantly limited capacity inFor awe-inspiring feats that spark the side the park’s expansive theaters to accom- imagination, the dynamic performance of modate plenty of space between parties; Cirque Electric, an all-new acrobatic stunt staggered entering and exiting procedures show exclusively produced for Busch Garto keep guests physically distant; protective dens, will soon thrill guests at the Stanface coverings required by all guests, am- leyville Theater. From the daring airborne bassadors and performers at all times, cov- aerialist to stunning displays of balance and ering the nose and mouth; and no eating or strength and a fascinating act on wheels drinking permitted inside the theaters. that cannot be missed, guests will be daz“Bringing more live entertainment safe- zled by world-class performers. ly back to the park is another huge step Guests can visit www.BuschGardenin returning to world-class entertainment sTampa.com for more information, reservaat Busch Gardens Tampa Bay,” said Neal tions and tickets. Fans can stay up to date Thurman, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay park with park events, attractions and more by president. “Since our reopening in June, following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on our park teams have been incredibly inno- Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2021
SCOUT DOES BLANKET TAMPA BAY COLLECTION FOR EAGLE PROJECT
By Anjali Caligiuri
Some local resienough items to dents are in a better fill 125 backpacks position thanks to a with personal care Valrico teen. items and kindJustin Mart, a ness to brighten dedicated and dethe day of sometermined Boy Scout one less fortunate. in Troop 665 in Lith“This accomia, recently completplishment is a very ed his Eagle Scout important goal for project of collecting me. It will repredonations and items sent years of hard to fill more than work, learning and 100 backpacks for growth,” said JusBlanket Tampa Bay tin. in March. With the This project reproject completed, quired an abunJustin is one step dance of time, closer to achieving determination and the prestigious title effort, which JusJustin Mart stands proudly with his 125 backof Eagle Scout; it tin offered freely. packs for Blanket Tampa Bay. has taken him many Throughout all of badges, hard work and constant sup- Boy Scouts, Justin has challenged himport from his parents, like his mother, self to realize new strengths, friends and Kim Mart, to reach his goal, but Justin accomplishments. Through years in the is closer than ever to achieving it. program, Justin has developed a sense “We are so proud of Justin for sticking of responsibility for himself and his with Scouts and working hard towards peers of lower rank as well as a drive to achieving Eagle rank,” said Kim. accomplish his goals. Justin constantly Justin has had to complete many re- strives to reach farther beyond what he quirements, such as earning a minimum thinks he can do to discover what he is of 21 merit badges and holding lead- truly capable of. ership positions within the troop. But “I had to push myself beyond what I none have carried the importance that thought my limits were. For example, the Eagle Scout project has for Justin. when we hiked 50 miles on the AppaJustin contributed numerous hours col- lachian Trail over five days,” said Justin. lecting essential items for backpacks To contact or donate to Blanket Tamfor the homeless through an organiza- pa Bay, reach out to Founder/CEO Beth tion called Blanket Tampa Bay. While his Ross at goal was to fill 100 backpacks, Justin Beth@blanketampabay.org or call exceeded all expectations and collected 300-9277.
Page 11
LACE UP TO SUPPORT BLOOMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL WITH BULLS 5K
By Jan Owen
for the band, this year more than ever. “Funding for school programs is always a challenge. This year, our fundraising activities have come to a screeching halt, so being able to continue with the 5K is big for the program.” This year, due to school district COVID-19 protocols, the 5K had to be moved from Bloomingdale High School’s campus to the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover. One hundred percent of The Running of the Bulls 5K will take place on Sunday, May 23 at 8 a.m. the profit benefits Bloomingdale students. Bloomingdale’s Running of the Bulls 5K Kim Harris, a Brandon Running Associreturns in May. The 5K is a local favorite ation member and BSHS alumnus (class bringing in runners and walkers from all of 1990), has run the 5K every year and over the area, current students and BSHS is signed up again. “I love Running of the alumni. Bulls because I’m giving back to my high Local runner Heather Berry has many school. I have fun each year I’ve done it reasons for why she enjoys the Running because it’s like a mini runners’ reunion. I of the Bulls. “I enjoy participating in the see a lot of my friends out there—whether Running of the Bulls because it gives me the opportunity to work on my person- they are walking, running or volunteering al running goals while running alongside at it. Everyone has a blast out there.” Made possible by local business sponmany of the cross country and track kids sors, such as Gold Sponsors Acropolis I cheer on each week. And it’s always nice Riverview and Heroes Paradise, registered to give back to the Rajun’ Bulls Marching participants receive a Dri-FIT shirt and Band that I marched with when I attendfinishers receive medals. The race is chiped Bloomingdale,” she said. timed by FITniche Events and age group Berry is avid runner and a member of winners will receive awards. Brandon Running Association, a mom of The event will take place on Sunday, May a current Bloomingdale track and cross 23 at 8 a.m. at the Hillsborough County country runner and a former flute player Fairgrounds located at 215 Sydney Washin the band at Bloomingdale (class of ’96). er Rd. in Dover. For any questions, email The Running of the Bulls 5K is sponBloomingdaleBulls5k@gmail.com. Regsored by the Bloomingdale Band Boosters. istration is $30. To register, visit https:// Bloomingdale’s director of bands, Jon Sever, said the 5K provides invaluable support fitniche.com/events/ and scroll to the May 23 date.
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Page 12
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE UPCOMING LET’S PLANT SOME TREES PROJECT
By Tatiana Ortiz
Florida’s largBetty Jo Tompkins, exest single-day tree ecutive director at the planting event will Hillsborough Soil and occur on Saturday, Water Conservation DisJune 12 at the Lowtrict, shared when this er Green Swamp tree planting project beNature Preserve in gan. Plant City. A total “Since the inception of 20,000 longleaf of the Hillsborough 100 pine seedlings will Conservation Challenge be planted on 80 in 2017, planting trees of acres. The Let’s all sizes would be an elPlant Some Trees ement incorporated into project ties into it,” Tompkins said. the Hillsborough This project’s purpose Soil and Water would be to bring more Conservation Dis- The Gilmore family of Wimauma, Bryan, public awareness to the trict’s Hillsbor- Aimee and Anabelle, getting getting ready need to reforest areas. for the upcoming Let’s Plant Some Trees ough 100 ConserSecondly, it gives the project. vation Challenge. public the opportuniThose interested in volunteering must ty to plant trees, which in a few years preregister by Friday, June 4, as spots will create a renewed forest. Tompkins will be limited to the first 200 preregis- mentioned that the goal of it is to influtrants. COVID-19 protocols will also be ence the future generations and young implemented, such as social distancing people. The Hillsborough Soil and Water and the requirement of masks. Conservation District also wants to reVolunteers will receive a free com- mind people that conservation is everymemorative T-shirt while supplies last body’s business. and refreshments. Starting at 8:30 a.m. “Overall, we believe that those who volunteers can sign in. Two shifts will participate in the Let’s Plant Some Trees also be available, with one beginning at project will enjoy nature and have a 9 a.m. and the other at 12 Noon. Closed- real sense of satisfaction that they have toed shoes, hats, long pants and shirt helped the planet,” Tompkins said. “Each are recommended. To add, volunteers planting is positive for the environment,” are also encouraged to bring garden she added. gloves, insect spray, lip balm and sunFor more information, visit www.hillsscreen. Volunteers under the age of 16 boroughswcd.com, call 752-1474, ext. 3. must be accompanied by an adult and Contact Tompkins at 477-8332 or email sign a release. bjt6890@yahoo.com.
Volume 20, Issue 5
NEWSOME SENIOR HEADS TO AIR FORCE ACADEMY AFTER
BEING NAMED COUNTY CADET OF YEAR
By Libby Hopkins
Andrew Fisch“I will be goer is a senior at ing to the Air Newsome High Force AcadSchool. He beemy in June gan his JROTC of this year (Reserve Officer once I graduTraining Corps) ate,” Fischer program in eighth said. grade after one of Air Force his teachers talkJROTC offers ed about the proa four-year gram in his class. program and “When my teacha three-year Andrew Fischer (center), senior at Newsome High School, er came and gave program, a talk on the recently became JROTC Cadet of the Year for Hillsborough both based JROTC program, County. Fischer is pictured with (left to right) Superintendent on Air Force it seemed kind of Addison Davis, Principal Katie Rocha, CTE Supervisor Dr. requirements Andrea Beverly, LTC Eric Deal and School Board fun to me,” Fischand led by Chair Lynn Gray. er said. “This is active duty where all of it began for me.” Air Force officers. Courses are a mix of Since Fischer began his journey into the normal college classes and the Air Force JROTC program, he has done nothing but JROTC curriculum, which covers everyexcel. “JROTC for me was a huge learning thing from leadership studies to combat experience for me and I liked that I gained technique. Upon completion, a student enso much from it,” Fischer said. “It was in ters the Air Force as an officer. the first year of JROTC that I learned a lot Fischer has excelled in Newsome’s about myself and how the JROTC would JROTC program. He was recently named dictate my life. It shaped a lot of my per- JROTC Cadet of the Year for Hillsborough sonality and my values. It really has made County. “I couldn’t have achieved this me a good person and a good citizen as accomplishment without the help and well.” guidance of my instructors, LTC Eric Deal, The Reserve Officer Training Corps is MSG Jaime Castro and MSG Erick Bera college program offered at more than tram,” Fischer said. 1,700 colleges and universities across the “I was kind of surprised when they United States that prepares young adults called my name at the ceremony. Just listo become officers in the U.S. military. tening to all of the speeches from the peoIn exchange for a paid college educa- ple at the ceremony and in the program tion and a guaranteed post-college career, was just awesome. These people are truly participants, or cadets, commit to serve astonishing people and to know I’m assoin the military after graduation. Each ser- ciated with these people was a really cool vice branch has its own take on JROTC. moment for me.”
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 13
NEW SERENITY GARDEN COMES TO THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PET RESOURCE CENTER
LIBRARY EVENTS INCLUDE GARDEN POTS, ANCESTRY SEARCHES, PHILIPPINE TRADITIONS & MORE
Man’s best friend just recently received get adopted quickly and smoothly as they a new serenity garden, which appeals to transition into their forever home. Its misall of the five senses, at the Hillsborough sion focuses primarily on raising the funds County Pet Resource Center in Tampa. The to help with the support and promotion Hillsborough of every aspect of County Pet Rethe pet programs sources Founat the Hillsbordation assisted ough County Pet with funding it. Resources departThe foundation ment as well as strives to prothe public animals vide enrichment in Hillsborough for the shelCounty and its ter pets in this partners. The founcounty. dation also focuses Scott Trebaon supporting outtoski, director of reach programs the Hillsborough and multilevel County Pet Re- Bella taking a drink from the small pond with a foun- community educasource Center, tain at the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center’s tion. new serenity garden. shared how the Through its cerserenity garden tified Points of came into fruition. Light Service Enterprise pro“Our employees actually gram, Hillsborough County came up with the idea, did Pet Resource Center offers the research and diligentvolunteer opportunities and ly worked on it together,” fostering for an animal. Due Trebatoski said. “They also to the pandemic, specific promaintain it as well,” he added. tocols were implemented for those interThe serenity garden features a white ested in volunteering. gate enclosure with a small shallow pond “All in all, in regards to the development with a fountain, a sandbox for dogs to dig of the serenity garden, I think it is incrediin, a couple of gardens and gazebos too. The ble of how much our employees care,” Tredimensions of the serenity garden would be batoski said. 50 ft. by 100 ft. It also includes nontoxic For more information, visit www.hillplants, wheat grass and more. With it being sboroughcounty.org/en/residents/ania relatively new concept, as time progress- mals-and-pets. To donate, go to www. es, some additions might be coming in the hcprfoundation.org. It is located at 440 N. near future as well. Falkenburg Rd. in Tampa and is open MonWith more than 50 years of experience, day through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., by apthe foundation works to help the animals pointment only. Call 744-5660.
For the month lander Heritage of May, the HillMonth. It will sborough Counfeature the dity Public Library rector of cultural Cooperative affairs for Phil(HCPLC) conippine Cultural tinues its series Foundation, Inc., of online events Joey Omila. It while transitionis described to ing to in-person be an “engaging events. While conand informative tinuing its series session” that of boredom bustwill be discussers for families ing the different and plays for kids, cultures, history it is also offering and traditions opportunities to of the Philiplearn about places The HCPLC is hosting ‘Big Hands, Little Hands: Ladybug pines. It will across the globe, Garden Pot’ take-home arts and crafts projects for fami- also include a create hands-on live question lies to do together. projects and more. Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County Public Library Cooper- and answer ative’s official website. On Thursday, session. RegMay 13, Bruton Memorial Library will be istration is available online at the events offering a hands-on arts and crafts proj- page on the official HCPLC website and ect titled ‘Big Hands, Little Hands: La- the event is recommended for all ages. It dybug Garden Pot.’ The program will be will begin at 6:30 and will last until apopen to all families and is based on the proximately 7 p.m. idea of adults helping their kids. On Thursday, May 20 from 6:30 till “A pair of big hands (adult) and a pair of approximately 7 p.m., the HCPLC will be little hands (child age 4-plus) will design hosting ‘Finding Your Patriot.’ This online a ladybug garden pot,” states the official event will feature teaching adults how to HCPLC website. use different ways to find military records The event will be available the entire through free library sources. Examples of day and families will be provided take- these sources include “Fold3, Ancestry home craft kits while supplies are avail- and Find A Grave.” Library staff will be able. available to help attendees with tips and Another event will be taking place on- demonstrations to help people conduct line on Tuesday, May 18 titled ‘Exploring successful family research. the Philippines.’ According to the official For more information on these and othHCPLC website, the program is presented er events, visit https://hcplc.evanced.info/ as part of Asian American and Pacific Is- signup/Calendar.
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Page 14
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
RICK AND NANCY MONSIPAPA ARE CAMPO FAMILY YMCA’S VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR
By Kathy L. Collins
Impact Award for his dedication and positive impact on the Tampa Bay community. “Thomas Mantz exemplifies the very purpose of what the Community Impact Award is all about,” said Tampa YMCA President and CEO Matt Mitchell. “His service to the community throughout the pandemic has been vital to the health and well-being of our kids and families. He did more than provide food and nourishment to those in need. He also displayed values of compassion Nancy and Rick Monsipapa were recognized as the 2021 and caring through actions that Volunteers of the Year from the Campo Family YMCA. The dedicated members are also members of the advisory are examples for us all to live board at the Y. They were recognized this year during the by,” added Mitchell. Tampa Metropolitan YMCA’s four-day virtual event. Locally, the Campo Family Each year, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA recognized two volunYMCA holds a Community Impact Dinner. teers for their service and dedication, Rick Typically, this dinner is a celebration and and Nancy Monsipapa, who are members an opportunity to recognize those individ- of the advisory board of the Campo Famuals who make an impact on the commu- ily YMCA. Rick and Nancy said, “The Y is nity. It is also a time that local Ys are able an unending place of friendship. As a child, to recognize volunteers who go above and it meant a place to run, play and learn. As beyond to make their YMCA a great place adults, we want to do everything we can to provide that for others in our community. to be a member. This year, in an effort to ensure the safe- The Y is not just a gym and swim, it is so ty of the community, the annual event was much more. It is about seeing the needs held as a four-day virtual event on Face- that the surrounding communities have, and finding a way to fill those needs. And book. The celebration included compelling playing a small part in that means the world videos, stories and more to celebrate the to us.” Y’s impact, thank donors and honor comThe Campo Family YMCA is located at munity volunteers. 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. For more Thomas Mantz, president and CEO of information on the Campo Family YMCA, Feeding Tampa Bay, was awarded the Tam- please call 674-1371 or visit www.tampaypa Metropolitan Area YMCA’s Community mca.org.
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Volume 20, Issue 5
LOCAL WINE MAKER SHARES AWARD WINNING BLANC DU BOIS
By Amy Schechter
While Florida is known for its world famous oranges and strawberries, one may not really think of its vineyards, but John amateur Beckwith, wine maker, begs to differ. Originally from South Carolina, Beckwith always enjoyed gardening, but with over five acres in Lithia, he jumped at the opportunity to plant a vineyard, so he joined the Grape Growers Association of Florida and dug in. Beckwith grows now Blanc du Bois grapes, a hybrid species which produces crisp, sweet white wines with hints of citrus and floral flavors. It’s one of a few species that grows well in Florida because of its resistance to disease/ pests and tolerance to humidity. “In California, the temperatures drop at night, and that prevents the grapes from maturing as quickly. West coast grapes are ready in the fall, but I harvest over the summer. I could tell you the weather this week, but also last year, or the year before it,” Beckwith said with a smile, and as a small batch wine maker, he needs to stay in tune with nature. Someone once told him, “Great wine is made in the vineyard,” and he considers himself
a steward rather than a wine maker. The quality of this year’s vintage depends so much on conditions out of his control. The wildlife and weather do not always cooperate. reason, that For Beckwith holds our local farmers in high regard. His vineyard is a labor of love he shares with friends and family, who often help him harvest and crush the grapes when they’re ready. However, his Lithia resident livelihood isn’t tied to John Beckwith is hobby. As a softhis an amateur wine engineer, he enware maker. joys growing his grapes and 50 tomato plants in his spare time, but he understands the hard work it entails when a frost threatens your crops. “I remember the severe frosts of 2009 where farmers worked all night to keep watering to insulate the berries and save their harvests, their sources of income. My heart broke for them.” Over the last few years, Beckwith’s vineyard yields between 5 and 10 gallons of wine. Because of Florida laws, he never sells his wine, but he prefers to share it. His friends receive wonderful Christmas presents and he’s even made a few custom batches for some weddings. This year, he entered his wine at the Florida State Fair, where there were a total of 10 Blanc du Bois entrants, and his took the silver medal. Hopefully the best sip is yet to come.
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
COUNTY REVIEW BOARD HELPS PRESERVE LINKS TO AREA’S PAST By Brad Stager HRRB for consideration, the review process includes determining the role that a site has played in Hillsborough County’s history. That’s where the board’s historian plays a significant role. Charles Nelson is currently the board’s historian and he said there are a few factors that come into consideration when reviewing an application. The A. P. Dickman House in Ruskin received funding from the “The property has to be at Hillsborough County Historical Review Board for repairs to least 50 years old and have eipreserve it for future generations. ther architectural significance As Hillsborough County’s population conor historical significance, or tinues to grow, more of what has existed both,” said Nelson, who also writes articles is giving way to new homes and shopping about Hillsborough County’s history that centers. Ensuring that current and future are published in the Osprey Observer. generations of residents are able to conOne example of local preserved history nect with the area’s past is a job that the is the A. P. Dickman House in Ruskin. It county’s Historic Resources Review Board was built in 1911 as a home for members (HRRB) performs. of the Dickman family who settled in the The HRRB is comprised of nine unpaid area to form a college and cooperative members selected by the Board of County community, creating the foundation for Commissioners who dedicate their pro- modern Ruskin. The waterfront 2-story fessional skills and interest in preserving wood structure is a blend of Queen Anne history by reviewing applications from and Colonial Revival architectural styles. residents seeking historical designation for In 2000, it was added to the National landmarks or financial assistance to pre- Register of Historic Places and continserve them. ues to serve as a home for descendants The board includes architects, historians, of the original owners. The current occureal estate and planning professionals as pants sought and received funding from well as positions designated for members the HRRB to help pay for needed repairs whose primary credential is a knowledge- to ensure the structure remained in good able interest in historic preservation. Mem- shape. bers serve three-year terms and there are You can learn more about how the HRRB no term limits, but some positions, such as helps preserve Hillsborough County’s hisarchitect, require professional licensing in tory as well as opportunities to serve on it Florida. and other boards and councils staffed by When an application comes before the residents by visiting hcflgov.net.
Page 15
ADVENTHEALTH ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR NEW RIVERVIEW HOSPITAL
Staff Report
Leaders for Adservices. ventHealth West The hospital Florida Division development have announced follows Adplans to build a v e n t H e a l t h ’s 209,000-squarerecent growth foot, four-story and expansion hospital in Riverplans, includview. The health ing the Taneja care system will Center for Surbreak ground on gery opening the $216 million later this year, project beginning AdventHealth West Florida Division will break ground the opening of on the new Southern Hills. location later this year. in Fall 2021 and two new off-site plans to open the emergency dehospital in Spring 2023. partments in West“We are excited to conchase and Brandon, tinue our growth strategy the opening of an Adto meet the fast-growing ventHealth Imaging needs of Southern HillCenter in Brandon and sborough County,” said the recent acquisition Mike Schultz, president and CEO of Ad- of an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) ventHealth West Florida Division. “This formerly known as Tampa Bay Surgery hospital is another addition to our robust Center and Exodus Women’s Centers lonetwork of connected care that we’re cated throughout Greater Tampa Bay. providing in this area, including primary The West Florida Division of Advencare, specialty care, emergency services, tHealth offers a robust system of care, outpatient imaging and more. We want including specialty acute care, over 200 to make it easy for people to have conve- primary care and specialty employed phynient access to the expert care they need, sicians, Express Care at Walgreens clinics, when they need it, and help close the gap urgent care centers, wound care, physical in health care services in our community.” therapy, home care, mobile mammography The first phase of the new Riverview and more. AdventHealth is a faith-based, hospital will include 80 beds at opening not-for-profit health care system with a day and additional space for future expan- mission of “Extending the Healing Ministry sion to accommodate over 200 beds as of Christ.” AdventHealth has hundreds of the community’s demand for health care care sites and nearly 50 hospitals across grows. The full-service hospital will pro- the United States. vide emergency, cardiology, obstetrics and For more information about Adventgynecology (including labor and delivery), Health, visit AdventHealth.com or Facegastroenterology, orthopedic and urology book.com/AdventHealth.
Page 16
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
By Brian Bokor
CERTIFIED ROOFERS & GENERAL CONTRACTORS, INC. CELEBRATES ITS 40-YEAR ANNIVERSARY By Tatiana Ortiz
ists alike, but also providing job opportunities to the area. Two individual structures will be constructed, with the indoor dining area covering almost 6,000 sq. ft. with the covered, outdoor patio area spanning roughly another 4,000 sq. ft. Guests will be able to visit Finn’s by car and boat, as the wornd o w n d o c k s currently on location will be demolished and rebuilt, adding space for up to 15 vessels and parking created with the capacity to handle 90 vehicles. Thanks to the required 30-foot setback from the seawall, Disser revealed an event lawn and sitting area covered with sand and crushed shells that will make for the perfect transition from sea to land. The layout and atmosphere of Finn’s will be similar to Salt Shack On the Bay, with guests being able to enjoy unobstructed views of Florida sunsets while enjoying unique, island-themed drinks and a sophisticated yet casual menu highlighted by fresh seafood along with sandwiches and burgers. Entertainment under the stars will be provided nightly at the tiki bar along with a variety of happy hour specials for guests to enjoy daily.
career was much spent as a general contractor in the Tampa Bay area. He passed away in 2006. His son, Onidio Sanchez Jr., also had talents similar to himself, but focused on roofing. Sanchez Jr. founded Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc. He passed away in 2015. Before he passed away, Sanchez Jr. and his son, Alex Sanchez, worked hand-in-hand for more than a decade. Alex brought a new perspective to the business. This business model still sticks to his father’s dream too. Workers serve FishHawk, Brandon, Riverview, Valrico, Tampa as well as the surrounding communities. Services include roof repairs, roof replacements, storm damage repairs and more. Those interested can receive a free estimate. All are trained and educated. “All in all, we like to thank the community for allowing us to be involved in it for the past 40 years,” Carpenter said. “We also look forward to serving them now and in the future,” she added. For more information, visit https://certifiedroofers.com. It is located inside the River Hills Plaza at 4331 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call 643-8333.
FINN’S DOCKSIDE BAR & GRILL APOLLO BEACH’S NEXT WATERFRONT DESTINATION By this Thanksgiving, Apollo Beach residents will have another waterfront dining choice on their menu. “As soon as shovel hits dirt, we will work nonstop until the project is finished. Our goal is to be open November 21, and, based on prior experience, I think we will Construction is expected to begin be able to hit this month on a new waterside restaurant in Apollo Beach. that date,” said Michael Disser, owner of Finn’s Dockside Bar & Grill, a new restaurant expected to begin construction this month. The vacant parcel of land at 1112 Apollo Beach Blvd., located between Bella Sol and Circles Waterfront Restaurant, has been owned by Apollo Beach’s favorite landscaper, Mr. Kim, since 2002. When asked why the almost 2-acre prime waterfront location has sat vacant this long, Disser, who also owns Soho Saloon and the Pinellas area Moe’s Southwest Grill locations, told me he has been working with Mr. Kim for over 8 months trying to get the project up and running. The two recently came to an agreement on a 99-year land lease, with Disser and his team responsible for construction and all restaurant operations and Mr. Kim contributing to site preparation, dock construction and, of course, landscaping. When complete, the $4.5M build-out will employ a staff around 80, adding not only a destination spot for locals and tour-
Volume 20, Issue 5
Alex Sanchez, owner of Certified Roofers, and his three sons.
A commitment to trustworthiness, stellar craftsmanship and honesty perfectly describes Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc., located in Valrico. As a third-generation family business of roofers, the business celebrates 40 years of service this year. A tradition of caring for neighbors and remaining hardworking is at the heart of Certified Roofers. Kathleen Carpenter, marketing manager at Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc., stated what makes the business set apart. “We are local to the community, family-owned and know the area well since the Sanchez’s started their roots here,” Carpenter said. Certified Roofers & General Contractors, Inc. is a GAF Master Elite-certified company that became established in 1981. Prior to that, the patriarch of the family, Onidio Sanchez, started his 40year journey utilizing his skills in building homes and remodeling them in 1965. His
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2021
PORT TAMPA BAY OFFERS FREE EDUCATIONAL HARBOR TOURS
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By Tatiana Ortiz Through its container ships by partnership crane. Wolf-Chason with The Florstated that, accordida Aquarium, ing to the American Port Tampa Association of Port Bay provides Authorities, 95 perfree 75-mincent of goods one ute Educational uses does travel Harbor Tours through a seaport. twice a week With the seating on Wednesdays capacity limited to and Thursdays 60 passengers, those at 9 a.m. These interested in the tour tours assist the must make an adcommunity with vanced reservation. understanding Upon completion of the economic every reservation, a importance of confirmation email Port Tampa Bay, will be sent with inwhich handles structions. Particimore than 37 pants will also meet million tons of at the huge manta cargo a year and ray statue at the enPassengers aboard the Bay Spirit II catamaran during is considered trance of The Florida an Educational Harbor Tour at Port Tampa Bay. Florida’s largest Aquarium. As part of port. In addition, Port Tampa Bay has an the safety protocols being implemented with $18 billion impact on the region and effects the COVID-19 pandemic, face coverings and 85,000 direct as well as indirect jobs. social distancing will be required throughLisa Wolf-Chason, director of communica- out the entire tour. In regards to youth and tions at Port Tampa Bay, shared what partic- school groups, a variety of guidelines will ipants will learn during their narrated tour. need to be adhered to. “They will learn about our cruise opera“Overall, Port Tampa Bay is the enertions, what some of the port’s major tenants gy gateway of Florida and nearly half of bring through our port and about its history the state’s fuel comes through our port,” in our community,” Wolf-Chason said. Wolf-Chason said. “With that in mind, most Passengers will be touring Hooker’s Point people have no idea that such an important while riding the Bay Spirit II catamaran. part of their daily lives sits in their own backHooker’s Point displays the port’s container yard,” she added. terminals, fuel terminals and more. During For more information or to book a tour, the tour, passengers may even get a chance visit www.porttb.com/harbor-tours or call to observe containers being taken off giant 905-7678.
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Page 18
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
REGISTER FOR MOVE! HILLSBOROUGH AND GET MOVING
By Kathy L. Collins
The Hillsborough County Parks & Recre- that anyone at any fitness level could do ation Department has come up with a new and push themselves to be physically program to get residents moving. Move! healthier. The activities include anything Hillsborough offers incentives or prizes that people can do anywhere, including in for anyone who our parks.” gets exercising. While you are The program working toward will run through your goal, be sure Saturday, July to post your expe31. rience using the This is the hashtag #Movefirst year for ItHC. Move! HillsborMcDonald addough. It is a new ed, “We want Move! Hillsborough is a new health initiative of the health initiative Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation Department people to know to get residents that is designed to get residents moving. You can enjoy that the Parks Dethe great outdoors, have fun exercising and win a prize. exercising and partment is fully moving. You can bike, hike, walk, kayak, invested in the health and wellness of our rollerblade or even skip. If you like Zumba community. We want people to come out or just workout, keep track of it and use and enjoy our parks and programs. This the Parks Department’s exercise to miles program is a way to encourage people to conversion sheet. Just keep track of your get active in their favorite ways. You can miles, because any time of movement count the miles you earn while you walk, counts. run, bike, hike, skip or canoe. But the great Residents simply select a goal—100 thing about this program is we have a miles, 300 miles or 500 miles. Keep track conversion chart on the website for activof where you go, what you do and your ities like basketball, pickleball, Zumba and miles until July 31. Once you reach your much more. This way all activity counts.” goal, you win a prize, which includes a Remember to get out there and explore keychain for 100 miles, a bandana for too. Hillsborough County is home to nu300 miles and a T-shirt for 500 miles. merous Neighborhood Community Parks Register for Move! Hillsborough online for such as Seffner CommUNITY Park and free at www.hillsboroughcounty.org. You Garden and FishHawk Sports Complex must be registered to receive your prize. as well as Conservation Parks such as Dana McDonald, senior program coor- Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park, Lithdinator for Hillsborough County Parks & ia Springs Conservation Park and Apollo Recreation, said, “We wanted to give peo- Beach Nature Preserve. ple a way to get more active and get reVisit www.hillsboroughcounty.org and warded for it. We wanted to do something get moving.
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Volume 20, Issue 5
What You Can Do About
Back Pain
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May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 19
HOW DID HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY GET ITS NAME? AUGUSTUS STEELE: FATHER OF HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY By Charles Nelson In this column, we’ve explored the origin stories of several of our communities like Brandon, Gibsonton, Simmons Hammock and several others. Recently, a reader asked how Hillsborough County got its name. That’s a great question. Let’s take a close look. Most history books of Florida and Hillsborough County attribute Hillsborough County’s formation to one man, Augustus Steele. That’s a fair attribution. Hillsborough County was formed on January 25, 1834 (from Alachua and Mon- “1850 Map of Hillsborough County. Eventually 8 additional roe Counties), largely due to counties would be formed from the original county.” Source: Steele’s influence with Flori- Courtesy of the Special Collections Department, University of South Florida. da’s territorial government. In some respects, he was uments and streets named in his honor? an odd man to lead this effort. Steele was Well, it might be fair to label Steele as a just a step ahead of creditors when he dishonest businessman. Unquestionably, came to Tampa’s tiny village due to ques- he played fast and loose with local investionable business deals in the Panhandle. tors when he attempted to plat out TamDespite those legal problems, he quickly pa’s new town. Steele sought to sell land established himself as a leading citizen on both sides of the river even though his and booster of the little community. As right to sell was very much in question. a probate judge, postmaster and port of- The courts agreed with creditors, and all ficial, Steele had the clout to lead efforts land sales were invalidated, ending Steele’s to form a new county where Tampa was dreams of expanding his wealth in Tamnamed the county seat. He argued that the pa. Steele again evaded responsibility by long, arduous trip to Alachua County’s seat quickly escaping to Cedar Key, never renear present-day Gainesville made county turning to Tampa. That certainly has tarbusiness complex. Only a new county could nished his reputation as the ‘Father of Hilladequately solve the problems of adminis- sborough County.’ tration. It was Steele that suggested the So, what about that name? History name: Hillsborough. books have also explained that HillsborWhy isn’t Steele more prominently re- ough County was named in honor of Wills membered today? Where are the mon- Hills, the Earl of Hillsborough. Hills served
“Augustus Steele: The Father of Hillsborough County.” Source: Tampaix.com and Cedar Key Historical Museum.
as British secretary of state for the Colonies under King George III from 17681772. Indeed, to honor the Colonial secretary, even though Hills never stepped foot in Florida, a 1769 British map first showed the river marked as the Hillsborough. In 1772, a later map was sent to the Earl of Hillsborough, and the name was fixed. Remember that from 1507 until 1821, Florida was claimed and governed by the Spanish, except for that 20-year British period. Few Spanish maps even identify the river before 1757, when Don Francisco Maria Celi created a very detailed (and very famous) map of the bay, then called the Bahia de Spiritu Santo. Celi named the
river the ‘Rio de San Julian y Arriaga’ in honor of an important Spanish priest and government official of the early 1500s. So, what was Steele’s source for the Hillsborough name? It is far more likely that Steele didn’t have the Earl of Hillsborough in mind when he suggested the county’s name in 1834. British influence was long past in American history by that date, but the river and the eastern portion of the bay had been named Hillsborough for over 60 years. So, it is far more likely that Steele chose the name to be consistent with two significant geographic features rather than to honor a long-dead, unimportant (to America) British official. Are the history books right? Was Hillsborough County named to honor the British secretary of state for the Colonies? Let’s call this statement ‘half true’ to appease the fact-checkers. To be fair, the river and bay’s names likely were chosen by unnamed British map makers to honor Will Hills. But Steele probably had geography on his mind…that is, before he hightailed it out of town. So, now you know the whole story. You can confidently tell your neighbors how Hillsborough County got its name. Although, your version will be a bit more nuanced than the history books. CHARLES NELSON HOLDS A MA DEGREE IN HISTORY FROM GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY AND TAUGHT AS AN ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR AT HCC (DALE MABRY). HE IS ALSO AFFILIATED WITH TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER AS A VOLUNTEER DOCENT, RESEARCHER AND COMMUNITY LECTURER, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON SOUTH HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HISTORY.
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Page 20
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Sunday Market Returns, Shred Event, Coach Bag Sun Bingo & More... Compiled by Jenny Bennett jbennett@ospreyobserver.com
FishHawk Ranch Sunday Market Returns
After an almost yearlong hiatus due to the pandemic, the Community Development District is pleased to announce the return of the Sunday market to FishHawk Ranch on Sunday, May 16 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. It will be held at a new location, Cross Park (across from Park Square). Although the number of vendors will be limited, rest assured, there will be a wide variety of local vendors to provide patrons with a vibrant outdoor shopping experience. From fresh local produce to natural bath and body products, pet products, jewelry and more, there is bound to be something for everyone. Bring your family, meet up with friends, get out in the fresh air and shop for unique special items not offered in chain stores. To ensure the safety of those in attendance, COVID-19 and social distancing protocols will be in place. For more information and vendor opportunities, contact Susan Parvin at 657-6629.
Congratulations To Bloomingdale’s All-County 2020-21 Students
The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles are an opportunity for the top musicians throughout the county to experience music making in an ensemble setting. It not only showcases the top musicians in the county,
it also gives them a chance to work with a director other than their own. Bloomingdale High School’s band director, Jon Sever, is proud of the students that made it to the All-County and sees it as a good sign for the future. High School Band, 9th-10th Grade: Clay Larson, Jocelyn Bueno Hernandez, Creighton Cantrell, Cameron Jennings, Matthew Ryan, Mishka Moronta, Chole Erickson.High School Band, 11th-12th Grade: Jose Cisneros, Mason Rhody, Summer Hogenmiller, Diana Munoz, Danna Rodriguez, Declan Ware.
Pathway To Wellness Women’s Retreat
Join Women Centered 4 Success (WC4S) for its Pathway to Wellness retreat focused on reconnecting your mind, reenergizing your body, and rejuvenating your spirit through dynamic speakers and a specially curated program designed for an unforgettable wellness experience. “A wellness retreat is a space where women can reconnect with one another to cultivate our womanhood, celebrate our unique talents and ultimately leave the retreat feeling empowered to make self-care a priority,” shared Sheila Lewis, CEO of WC4S. The Pathway to Wellness retreat was created to help women in emotional, financial, spiritual, relationship, mental and fitness wellness. WC4S has identified these areas as the key focus points in a woman’s life that she needs to manage well and ultimately master to propel her forward. For more information and to register for the retreat, visit www.wc4s.org.
Hough Financial Services, Inc. Hosts Shred Event
Hough Financial Services, Inc. is hosting its annual Shred Day on Saturday, May 1
Volume 20, Issue 5
from 10 a.m.-12 Noon at 1739 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. The service is free of charge; however, you are invited to make a tax-deductible donation to Impact Program, Inc., an organization that works with young people in Hillsborough, Polk and Pasco Counties. Monetary donations are greatly appreciated, but donations may also include bags of individually wrapped Starbursts, Hershey Kisses or Jolly Ranchers candy.
Winners Of Music Showcase Contest
March is Music In Our Schools Month and it is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the very best of what is happening musically in classrooms across our area. Music Showcase in Brandon held an essay/drawing contest for students to express what music in school means to them, and it would like to congratulate all the participants for their dedication, hard work and creativity. The winners are: Elementary school winner - Saanvi, Lithia Springs Elementary; runner up - Kayleigh, Lithia Springs Elementary. Middle school winner - Katerina, Lawton Chiles Middle Academy. High school winner - Nicholas, Alonso High; runner up - Brooke, Strawberry Crest High.
Grace Community Market
Grace Community Church is holding its next market day on Saturday, May 8, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at its church located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. There will be a wide selection of vendors with food and fun, local shopping for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and graduations. If you are interested in being a vendor, please register at www.GraceCommunityMarket.com.
Brunch And Coach Bag Bingo Coming To JF Kicks
JF Kicks in Valrico is hosting a Coach Bag Bingo fundraiser for F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families, Respect, Inspire, Education, Networking for Down Syndrome & Special Needs). The event will take place on Sunday, June 27 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and will include over $6,000 in Coach bags, brunch and your choice of either a mimosa or a Bloody Mary, two bingo cards with the option to purchase more, raffles and lots of fun. Tickets for this event are $50 in advance, tables of eight are $350; or, if there are any left, tickets are $65 at the door. This event will probably sell out, so get your tickets today. To purchase tickets, call 413-4229 or email office@kenbrownlee.com.
Spring Yoga Classes Starting At Center Place
B Street First Annual Shoot-Out Center Place Fine Arts & Civic AssociTo Benefit F.R.I.E.N.D.S. ation is pleased to announce the start of F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Families, Respect, Inspire, Education, Networking for Down Syndrome & Special Needs) is the leading voice for Down syndrome in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties. FishHawk Sporting Clays is holding its B Street first annual Shoot-Out to benefit them on Saturday, May 22 from 8 a.m.1 p.m. at their property at 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia. The registration for the event is $100 per person or $400 for a team of four and the event will include a safety briefing, tournament, lunch and a raffle with a variety of prizes. Registration for the event is via mail to Amanda Gilley, 2350 E. SR 60, Valrico, FL 33594 or amanda@kenbrownlee.com.
spring yoga classes on the deck. Two styles of yoga are available: Holy Yoga Flow on May 15, 8-9 a.m., and Hatha Yoga Flow on May 15, 10-11 a.m. The cost for each session will be $20. To register for a class, please call 685-8888.
Newsome Madrigal Concert
The Newsome Chorus has a long-standing tradition of presenting Madrigal Dinners, an evening of Renaissance-themed food, fun, dancing, music, costumes, singing, skits and more. The chorus would love to see you at one of their two performances of the first-ever Madrigal Concert on Saturday, May 15 at 3 p.m. or 7 p.m. in the Newsome Auditorium. Feel free to dress in Renaissance attire and prepare to be transported back to a time of kings and queens, knights and dragons, and maybe even a unicorn too. Tickets are only $10. For tickets, please email newsomechorus@gmail.com.
PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (never known to fail)
O Most beautiful flowers of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succeed me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you.
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May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
DREW’S RV TECHS, EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST By Amy Schechter between. We have parts for older vehicles that big box stores won’t try to replace.” If you’re ready to trade in or buy, Drew’s RV Techs has upfront pricing and financing options to fit your budget. Anklin and his team strive for their cusWhether it’s tomers to have your home or peace of mind your home away when it comes from home, a recto buying and reational vehicle maintaining (RV) makes for your investpriceless memment. ories and enjoyNot ready to able adventures, jump into an RV and Drew’s RV Drew’s RV Techs has what you need to keep your family of your own? driving for years to come. Techs has what Check out Cruise you need to keep your family driving for America RV Rental, located on-site. years to come. It has a variety of small, standard and Family-owned and operated, Drew’s large-size RVs, so you can explore the RV Techs boasts an extensive inventory open road whether you want to rough it of new and pre-owned RVs for sale plus out in wilderness parks or camp in style. knowledgeable and experienced techni- It’s the perfect family vacation and a cians. Check out their competitive pric- great opportunity to experience all of es and personalized service the big box what RVs have to offer. stores cannot complete with. For more information, call 645-7870 Drew Anklin, owner and operator, with or visit www.drewsrvtechs.com and over 30 years of experience working on www.cruiseamerica.com/rv-rental-loand around RVs, knows the difference. cations/florida/tampa. Drew’s RV Techs “We have a huge emphasis on family. and Cruise America are located at 1601 An RV is important to your family. We S. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Ruskin. They are on will take on projects from the roof to open weekdays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and on the wheel bearings and everything in Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 Noon.
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15TH ANNUAL FAMILY CAR SHOW AND CRAFT FAIR AT BAY LIFE CHURCH IS BETTER THAN EVER Staff Report Car lovers, mark your calendars. The annual Bay Life Car Show and Craft Fair is back and better than ever. The 15th annual car show, to take place at Bay Life Church, will kick off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 29 and is open to the public with more than 500 show vehicles from around the state. Classics, hot rods, full custom vehicles, military vehicles, muscle cars, exotics, trucks and more on the shaded property will set up for a fun day for the whole family. “The Bay Life car show originally began as a community outreach to do something fun and involve our local car aficionados,” said Bay Life Church’s communications director, Stephen Stough. “Steve Hardy, the longtime Bay Life maintenance supervisor, took the initiative to organize our first event.” Over the years, other Bay Life members got involved and the event grew into a fundraiser for the church’s missions. In addition to the cars, guests will have the opportunity to purchase affordable food and shop at a full craft show with more than 50 vendors, including many offering auto-related items. After a special opening celebration with a color guard and the national anthem to honor the USA, fun for the whole family will include a DJ, a live band, a 50/50
drawing, games and events just for the kids and more than 70 trophies to be awarded in many categories. Admission is free. Show car owners are encouraged to provide a voluntary $10 donation, with every penny from this event benefiting Bay Life Church missions. “Bay Life Church missions and student ministries send several trips throughout the U.S. and internationally to support our mission partners,” Stough said. “Every penny raised from food and beverage sales, raffles and donations goes to support Bay Life global missions.” You can preregister and see past event photos, property map and more at www. baylife.org/carshow. To learn more, contact Steve Schumm at sschumm@baylife.org or visit www.baylife.org/carshow. To learn about the missions at Bay Life Church, please visit www.baylife.org/missions. Bay Life Church is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
VALRICO/FISHHAWK CHAMBER NAMES WINNERS OF YEAR AS IT TAKES COMMUNITY BACK TO THE 80S By Libby Hopkins The 80s were Another alive and well big winner of at the recent the evening Va l r i c o / F i s h was HiTech Hawk 2021 Automotive Annual Dinner of Brandon. and Awards It was the Banquet. Big winner of hair and neon the chamcould be seen all ber’s 2020 around the ballBusiness room at The Reof the Year gent on March Award. The 80s were alive and well at the recent Valrico/FishHawk 2021 25 this year. “We were Craig Beck- Annual Dinner and Awards Banquet. Big hair and neon could be so honinger, owner seen all around the ballroom at The Regent on March 25 this year. ored to be of ABC Event Planning, was captain of a finalist of the Valrico/FishHawk Chamthe time machine that took the cham- ber of Commerce awards, but then we ber and its guests back in time with his were thrilled to be the winner of their best totally awesome decorations. “I had a Business of the Year ward,” said Owner great time bringing the 80s back to life,” Melissa Padgett Canfield. Beckinger said. “It was great creating all The chamber was established in 2013 the 80s-themed centerpieces and deco- and it’s one of the premiere business orgarations.” Beckinger came in costume as nizations in Eastern Hillsborough County. Bruce Springsteen from his Born in the The chamber is made up of roughly 250 U.S.A. album cover. members representing businesses of all The guests and award winners were all sizes. From work-at-home solopreneurs to dressed in 80s-themed outfits as they lis- corporations with many employees, it weltened to 80s music and took selfies with comes all businesses. 80s memorabilia like Rubik’s Cubes and Now more than ever, building relationPAC-MAN. ships is crucial to sustaining and growing Some of the winners at the award ban- with many local businesses. The chamber quet were the Kiwanis Club of Brandon, provides weekly opportunities for business which won the chamber’s 2020 Nonprofit owners to meet new people, network and Business of the Year Award. “I really en- grow their referral network. Whether it’s joyed myself at the banquet,” said Jorgie at a Monday breakfast or a Wednesday Franks of the Kiwanis Club of Brandon. “I power hour, the chamber has plenty of opbrought my best 80s tribute to support portunities that will fit anyone’s schedule. the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of ComTo learn more about The Valrico/Fishmerce and I was so thrilled we won best Hawk Chamber of Commerce or to join the nonprofit of the year.” chamber, visit www.valricofishhawk.org.
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Volume 20, Issue 5
NEW FACEBOOK GROUP HELPS WITH FFA COMPETITION ATTIRE By Faith Miller FL FFA Associations,” Wheeler said. She knew that points were deducted at the contests if the students were not following the guidelines and wanted to find a way where she would be able to help. The program started on March 23 after she The FFA Official Dress Closet offers Hillsborough County FFA memhad been pondering on bers new opportunities to receive the clothes they need. the idea through the past Hillsborough County couple years, after being Future Farmers of Amerinspired by a former stuica (FFA) members are dent of her daughter’s agnow being given new riculture class. opportunities to access “Finally, I sat down in affordable official dress March, put my thoughts clothing items. together and just put my The FFA Official Dress heart out to our communiCloset is a new Facebook ty asking for assistance,” group page connecting Wheeler said. different members withIf interested, particiin the Hillsborough Counpants can contact Wheelty area who are in need er regarding donations to schedule a way of official dress clothing items. for them to be picked up or dropped off. The page was created by Dee Dee So far, the program has inspired three Wheeler, a mother of two previous FFA individuals to purchase four complete ofmembers who are now junior high and ficial dress sets as well as a family to purhigh school agriculture teachers. She de- chase two jackets to be donated for FFA scribed that, due to her children being so members in need. involved during their time in FFA, she reIt has also received monetary donations alized that there has always been a need and other forms of clothing donations. for an organization like this in the comMore information regarding the FFA munity. Closet for Hillsborough County Students “Just recently, when Florida began go- or contacting it is available through its ing to FFA Contests again, I have wit- facebook group page, titled ‘FFA Official nessed pictures on social media where our Dress Closet (Hillsborough County Floristudents are not properly clothed based da).’ on the rules put forth by the National and
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
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Herzing University Appoints Dr. Kurt Hubbard As Academic Dean Of Florida Campuses Herzing University, an accredited, private, nonprofit institution with locations in seven states and an online division, has named Dr. Kurt Hubbard the academic dean of its Orlando and Tampa campuses. Hubbard has extensive experience in higher education and will lead strategic initiatives that foster a positive learning environment and support culture for Herzing students and employees. Hubbard will also ensure that academic rigor, curriculum, instruction and learning outcome standards are met in collaboration with faculty, career development and administrative staff. “I’m excited to join an institution that truly takes a team approach to ensuring students are supported and empowered throughout their educational journey,” Hubbard said. “We will continue to make sure Herzing graduates are thoroughly prepared for rewarding and in-demand careers while also engaging with the communities we serve.” For more information about Herzing University’s Tampa campus, call 407-641-5227. Re-Bath Makes A Splash In Tampa Re-Bath, the nation’s largest complete bathroom remodeling company, marked the opening of its Brandon location with a grand opening event on April 22 at its showroom
location in the heart of Riverview within The Ancient Wisdom of Yoga Holistic Wellness Center at 10209 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview, after an extended ‘Pandemic Pause.’ During this pause, she built on her skills; she Dr. Kurt Hubbard, Herzing specializes in therapeutic University academic dean. massage and focuses on located in the Westfield pain relief and improved Dr. Felicia Hall with the Brandon mall at 459 mobility and flexibility. Brandon Town Center. Re- Leslie Forrester is fully vaccinat- Paul Kimble recently celebrated Watson Clinic Dermatolo- She concentrates on cregy at Brandon. Bath Tampa is owned and ed and ready to reopen Quality 20 years with Averitt Express. ating custom sessions of Life Massage. operated by previous indusmassage and bodywork child ready for school. O2B Kids try colleagues Rhino Rubio that feel both effective and comfortable, ofembraces the education and development of and Jackie Ruiz. Rubio is an industry each child and assists their parents in provid- ten using a variety of techniques. leader in the retail environment and ing a loving, nurturing space filled with care For more information, visit www.QualityLiRuiz holds an interior design degree where children can learn and grow. feMassageTherapy.com or call 501-7568. and brings over 20 years of experiFor more information, visit www.o2bkids. ence in the kitchen and bath indus- com or call 491-1943. Watson Clinic Opens New Office In try. “We are extremely excited to Brandon be servicing homeowners again in Watson Clinic is proud to introduce their the Greater Tampa community by singular brand of skincare to residents of providing a best in class business to Brandon and surrounding communities. turn to for their remodeling needs,” Watson Clinic Dermatology at Brandon said Rubio. features the expertise of a board-certified To learn more about Re-Bath for dermatology specialist, a highly qualified your bathroom remodeling needs, nursing staff and the latest treatments and visit www.rebath.com/location/tampa. technologies to ensure healthy and vibrant skin. “This is a convenient location in the O2B Kids Opens In Riverview center of the city where patients can enjoy O2B Kids recently celebrated its opening access to a diverse array of skincare serat 11616 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Next to vices, including annual evaluations, the dethe new Culver’s. It will be serving infants, Quality Life Massage Therapy Re- tection and treatments of skin cancers, acne, toddlers, pre-K and VPK children at this lo- opens At New Location eczema, psoriasis and other common disorcation. O2B Kids provides a literacy rich enLeslie Forrester first opened Quality Life ders, dermatologic surgery as well as the vironment with highly trained staff, creating Massage Therapy in 2011 and will be re- most popular noninvasive facial rejuvenation a superior program that will help get your opening again on Saturday, May 1 at a new options,” said Dr. Felicia Hall, MD. Dr. Hall is
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BUSINESS COLUMN CONTINUED... board certified by scornerpeds.com, the American Board by following its of Dermatology and Facebook page at is a member of the Kids’ Corner PediAmerican Acadeatrics, PLLC or by my of Dermatology, calling 940-8140. American Society for Mohs Surgery Averitt Express and American MedHonors Assoical Association. She ciate For 20 has close to 15 years Years Of Serof experience in pri- Sandra, Chuck and Cheryl, new owners of Kona Ice of vice vate practice. Tampa area Brandon. The Watson Clinic t ra n s p o r t a t i o n Dermatology at Brandon is located at 675 company Averitt Express recently honored S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. It is open Monday associate Paul Kimble of Valrico for 20 years to Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For more of service. He is now among the more than information, visit www.watsonclinic.com or 1,300 active Averitt associates who are call 655-3680. members of the company’s ‘Over 20 Team,’ an exclusive group of associates who have London Baker Law Celebrates Six served 20 or more years with Averitt. Years London Baker Law has provided concierge, Kona Ice Under New Ownership custom and caring services in the area of Bringing tropical tunes and cups of shaved estate planning and probate for six years. ice everywhere it stops, Kona Ice of BranServices include wills, durable powers of don is now under new ownership. “We are attorney, living wills, health care surrogates ecstatic to join the Kona Ice family and conand probate issues. Doing this type of plan- tinue to make a positive impact on the comning can be scary and unsettling, but London munities that have come to know and love Baker Law is committed to help people make Kona,” said Sandra Perrine, the local resident difficult choices and decisions as they work who has teamed up with Chuck and Cheryl through how they want their life handled if Saxe. The dynamic trio now own and operthey’re incapacitated and how they want ate Kona Ice of Brandon. Equally appealing things to go after they are no longer here to about the launch of Kona Ice of Brandon is do things. its philanthropic commitment to the commuThe London Baker Law office is at 6409 nities it serves. Perrine, Chuck and Cheryl are Eureka Springs Rd., Ste. 516 in Tampa. For continuing the mobile franchise’s tradition more information, visit www.londonbaker- of donating thousands of dollars each year law.com or call 586-1332. to local school groups, teams and community organizations. As they book events with American Water Celebrates 29 Years these groups, the trio pledges to give back a In Business percentage from the proceeds. Gary Bancroft, aka Gary, the Water WizTo learn more about Kona Ice of Brandon ard, owner of American Water & Windows, and to book your next event, email it at branis celebrating being one of the oldest water donfl@kona-ice.com or call 505-1805. softening and water treatment companies in Tampa Bay. It has been in business for 29 Meridian Senior Living To Debut years. During that time, it has won numerous Amenity-Rich Community In Branawards, including Brandon Small Business of don the Year finalist and Best of Brandon 2014. Senior living with passion, energy and inAmerican Water & Windows offers a free spiration is coming to Tampa. The Meridian check-up of your water softener system and at Brandon, located at 9215 Causeway Blvd. can save you up to 50 percent compared to in Tampa, is now accepting reservations for other companies. To arrange for a visit, call supportive independent living, assisted living 684-7873. For more information, visit its and memory care services. Managed by nawebsite at www.americanwaterusa.com. tional seniors housing operator Meridian Senior Living, The Meridian Kids’ Corner Pediatis a new, amenity-rich, rics, PLLC vibrant senior living Kids’ Corner Pediatrics, community currently unPLLC believes that raising der construction. It will a child is a rewarding and feature 136 supportive challenging experience independent living, asfor a parent. Its goal is to sisted living and memoprovide you with the best in pediatric care ry care residences over 117,000 square feet. to ensure that your child’s full potential is Beautiful, bright amenity spaces underscore reached. It treats all of its patients like family the community’s focus on active living: daily and strives to provide a facility and care that engaging and social activities, an exceptionwill make your child feel comfortable and al dining experience with multiple dining safe so they’ll want to come back. It offers options and venues and the highest quality services such as well-child visits—including care. The Meridian has taken out all the stops immunizations and developmental/behav- to make this into a premier place for seniors ioral screening—acute care, care of special to call home. health care needs and complex conditions “The Meridian won’t be a place to stay in,” and management of chronic conditions. said Stacy McCanless, executive director Kid’s Corner Pediatrics is located at 1114 of The Meridian. “It’s a place to meet new Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon and is open friends and create a lifestyle that’s perfect Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., with for you.” additional hours available by appointment. To learn more, call 540-5946 or visit More information can be found at www.kid- www.themeridianatbrandon.com. Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists License #L20000250797
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Volume 20, Issue 5
MEET STATE SENATOR DARRYL ROUSON, WHO SERVES DISTRICT 19 By Kathy L. Collins Darryl Roustate.” son, Democrat, is Rouson has three the Florida state legislative aides. Ella senator who repCoffee works locally resents District 19. and helps with local This district covers matters in the disa large area comtrict. Robert Heere prising Eastern and Tennille Moore and Southern Hilltravel with Rouson sborough County, to Tallahassee during including Riversession and work on view, Gibsonton, legislative matters. Apollo Beach and During the 2021 part of Ruskin. session, Rouson has Rouson has many priorities. “My served in the Senpriorities include exate since 2016. panding the Office of Prior to this, he Minority Health and served in the FlorHealth Equity to inida House of Rep- Florida State Senator Darryl Rouson has repre- crease access to care resentatives from sented the people of District 19 in the Florida State for our minority pop2008 to 2016. Senate since 2016. Not only is he your voice for ulations, fighting for change in Tallahassee, but also his office is here to When he is not in a just criminal justice assist constituents with a wide array of issues. session, Rouson system and addresspractices law with Rubenstein Law. ing food insecurity issues as chairman of Rouson’s main office is located in St. Pe- the Agriculture Committee,” explained tersburg. He has two satellite offices lo- Rouson. cated at 330 Pauls Dr. in Brandon and The Rouson plans to hold a virtual town hall Cuban Club at 2010 N. Avenida Republica when the session concludes. His office also de Cuba in Tampa. Constituents are asked puts together an email newsletter. You to make appointments by calling 727-822- can subscribe to it by visiting www.Dar6828. rylRouson.com. As a state senator, he and his office can Rouson is married to Angela Holmes assist constituents with a myriad of is- Rouson and resides in St. Petersburg. He sues. Rouson said, “Our office can help by and his wife have nine children: Antonio reaching out on your behalf to the state Winston, Sakeisha Winston, Daniele Rouagencies for issues such as unemployment, son, Giselle Rouson, Evan Holmes, Daniel Medicaid, Department of Corrections and Rouson, Emanuel Rouson, Jared Rouson more.” and Aaron Rouson. Rouson added, “I represent the people You can reach Darryl Rouson by calling of District 19 in Tallahassee. Please let 727-822-6828 and by email at rouson. me be your mouthpiece for change in our darryl@flsenate.gov.
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
CREATIVE MAILBOX DESIGNS OFFERS SIGNAGE, MONUMENTS & MORE By Amy Schechter Is your commuerything from highnity in need of a end to economy refresher? Are you options, Tappan’s looking to replace team can bring or upgrade mailyour vision to life. boxes, signage, All across Florimonuments or even da, Creative Mailstreet lights? If so, box Designs works you know this is an with both new and important underexisting residentaking. The decitial developments; sions the commuhomeowners asnity makes will last sociations and for years to come. community develFor that reason, opment districts; Creative Mailbox multifamily, condoDesigns has the minium, senior livexperience and exing and apartment pertise to partner communities; and with homeowners corporate office associations and Creative Mailbox Designs has the experience and mail centers. It property managers expertise to partner with homeowners associa- stays up to date on to deliver fantastic tions and property managers to deliver fantastic changing governproducts and revitalize your neighborhood or products and reviment coding and business. talize your neighprovides a wealth borhood or business. of knowledge and experience that Since 1986, Scott Tappan and his team makes the entire process stress-free. at Creative Mailbox Designs have served Beyond beautiful, practical mailboxes, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville and Ft. it offers address plaques, street sigMyers as the premier solution to your nage, entryway and monument signage community’s needs. As a locally owned and marketing signs, such as signage company, Tappan wants the experience inside of a community common area or to be seamless: “Unlike other companies pool. who order products from vendors, we For more information or to request work with clients to design, manufac- a quote, call 1-888-986-1223 or visture, install and remove the older prod- it www.creativemailboxdesigns.com. ucts.” From start to finish, Creative Mail- Find and like it on Facebook at www. box Designs provides the kind of white facebook.com/creativemailbox. Creglove service you want when you take ative Mailbox Designs is located at on a community-wide project. With ev- 6422 Harney Rd., Ste. F in Tampa.
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Pretty in pink, the roseate spoonbill is one of Florida’s most bright and cheerfully colored birds. Native to the state, they also carry a designation of threatened and imperiled species within Florida. They are state and federally protected under the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Roseate spoonbills are easily identified by their unique pink coloration as well as their large, namesake spoon shaped bill. One of only six species of spoonbills, roseates are the only spoonbills that can be found in North America. Their vivid pink color is a product of their diet. Feeding mostly on crustaceans and aquatic invertebrates such as crayfish, shrimp, crab and small fish, the color comes from pigments called carotenoids, which turn their feathers that unmistakable shade of pink. While they are often mistaken for flamingos, spoonbills are not actually related to them. Social by nature, it is not uncommon to find roseate spoonbills around other larger, wading birds such as egrets or cranes. They also nest in colonies. The oldest, recorded spoonbill lived to be almost 15 years old. These interesting birds most commonly breed around November through April but can reproduce at any time year-round. They typically lay three eggs, which take
on average three and a half weeks to hatch. Roseate spoonbills are not found within the entire state but can be most commonly spotted in coastal areas foraging in mangroves and marshes or roosting in trees or shrubs around cypress swamps. When observing a roseate spoonbill, be sure to pay close attention to how they eat. These foraging birds will walk slowly forward while moving their head from side to side to sift through mud and muck with their flattened, spoon-shaped bills. They are truly a sight to see. Roseate spoonbills may have protections now, but they were once hunted to dangerously low numbers for their unique feathers. Their numbers have rebounded since this became illegal; however, they are still facing many issues. The most common threats to the roseate spoonbill include habitat loss, degradation, pollution and risks posed from the overuse of pesticides. We can help these special birds continue to thrive within our beautiful state by keeping our mangroves and coastal habitats clean and environmentally sound. Remember to never feed wildlife and observe from a considerable distance. Together, we can keep Florida wild and coexist with our incredible biodiversity for generations to come.
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 29
COMING SOON: THE MOTOR ENCLAVE – AN AUTOMOTIVE COMMUNITY OFFERING EXCLUSIVE PRIVATELY OWNED GARAGES By Brian Bokor
The Motor Enclave of Tampa, a 200-acre car enthusiast’s playground to include 300 private garages, a performance circuit, three offroad courses, a vehicle dynamics pad and a 35,000 sq. ft. corporate events center, is set to break ground this summer between the Tampa Executive Airport and I-75, just north of the I-75/I-4 interchange. The $100M project is led by Brad Oleshansky, corporate attorney and founder of M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan. Oleshansky spent 7 years building M1 into the largest privately owned garage community in the world until he sold it in 2019 to expand the concept across the United States under The Motor Enclave brand. Oleshansky is a two-time winner of the prestigious Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, the first time in 2012 for Big Communications and again in 2018 for M1 Concourse. Tampa will be the first of several cities targeted for his concept, and when asked why here, Oleshansky replied, “the demand is here and the data supports it. The (Central) Tampa area has one of the largest concentrations of car enthusiasts in the county,” adding the location worked perfectly adjacent to the airport and major interchange and presented an opportunity to repurpose the underutilized vacant
dairy farm into Tampa’s next destination location. The 1.6-mile performance circuit was designed by world-renowned Formula One track designer Hermann Tilke, with Oleshansky telling me it will feature “Fourteen turns and a half-mile straight away. The 80-acre off–road area will include a Rubicon Trail experience, a Rally Cross experience, a desert experience and a training course/area. The area will also have hiking and mountain biking trails for members to explore. Owners will enjoy an on-site swimming pool as well as members lounge in the event center” as part of the extensive amenity package. Oleshansky said there will be many opportunities for the public to visit the facility beginning with several free events, such as ‘Cars and Coffee,’ where guests are invited to enjoy a courtesy cup of coffee and view classic, luxury and exotic automobiles provided by local owners and sponsors. Other public events will include ‘Cars under the Stars,’ a variety of car shows and
periodic food truck rallies. Paid driving schools will be available, where individuals will be taught to drive both high-performance as well as off-road vehicles under the supervision of professionally trained instructors. The corporate events center will be available to rent for groups anywhere between 10 and 1,000 and will offer full-service amenities for its guests. All of the driving elements on the property are available for private rentals. Public track days will also be scheduled at various times throughout the year, with users wishing to drive on the track being able to register when the opportunities arise. For those interested in purchasing a garage, act fast as 150 of the planned 300 units have already been spoken for, with reservations coming from all parts of the country. The 25-foot-tall structures range from 625-2,400 square feet of ground
floor space, allowing plenty of room to store cars below and create living/office arrangements above, including kitchens, bars and bathrooms. Units are sold as ‘white boxes,’ with interior design up to the end user. Examples of the endless garage possibilities as well as how to inquire about their availability can be found on The Motor Enclave’s website at www.themotorenclave.com. Interested parties are encouraged to sign up for The Motor Enclave VIP list in order to stay informed about project progress and learn more about future events and public track options. Oleshansky is also involved in several charitable organizations and wanted to invite all of our readers to join him and The Motor Enclave team, which includes Chas Ostezan and Winchester Stiens, on Saturday, May 1 for the inaugural ‘Road Rally for a Cure,’ benefitting the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Fourty-three cars will participate in a sheriff-escort-led rally from Nova University in Clearwater to Sparksman Wharf in Tampa, culminating in a public car show from 12 Noon-2 p.m. Please visit www.nationalpcf.org for additional information about this event and other ways to help beat pediatric cancer.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
U-PICK BLUEBERRY SEASON IS HERE By Tatiana Ortiz
By Nitish S. Rele
nitishrele@gmail.com
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE KIA K5 GT IS AN ENTICING SEDAN After test driving way manual passenthe K5 EX just a couple ger leatherette seats, months ago, Kia dis60/40 rear seat, manpatched us a sportier ual tilt/telescopic and version of the midsize flat-bottomed steersedan, i.e. the GT vering column, panoramsion. Its all-wheel drive ic sunroof, dual auto system makes the ride AC with rear vents, an even more appealing push-button start, 4.2K5 (GT) proposition to tackle wet or inch LCD instrument display, Tires: 235/45R18 Wheelbase: 112.2 inches untoward road conditions. Pick power windows, door locks Length: 193.1 inches sport from the drive modes and outside mirrors as well as Width: 73.2 inches (normal, smart, custom and an infotainment system with Height: 56.9 inches Weight: 3,465 pounds snow also offered) and you can an 8-inch touch screen. Satin Fuel capacity: 15.8 gallons have a fun and lively jaunt. chrome accents on the center City: 26 mpg The GT is equipped with a console garnish, dash pad bezel Highway: 34 mpg Base price: $29,090 1.6-liter turbo gas inline-four and air vents convey elegance. Price as tested: $31,300 cylinder engine developing 180 Website: www.kiausa.com The trunk volume is excellent horsepower at 5,500 rpm and at 16 cubic feet. 195 pounds-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm. It is The dual front and side airbags, side curcoupled to a seamless eight-speed auto. An tain airbag, driver knee airbag, four-wheel independent MacPherson front and a multi- anti-lock brakes, stability and traction conlink rear suspension handle the bumps of ir- trol systems, forward and blind-spot colliregular surfaces with little sacrifice. The col- sion-avoidance assists as well as lane-keep umn-mounted, motor-driven power steering and lane-follow assists, rearview camera, is perfectly weighted and provides adequate front and rear crumple zones, side impact feedback. door beams, three-point front seatbelts with Length and wheelbase in all the K5 sedans pretensioners, daytime running lights and increase by 2 and 1.8 inches, respectively, tire monitoring system are standard. and width rises another inch, though the The reasonably priced K5, like the outheight is down by 0.8 inches. Sitting on the going Optima, is not your average sedan. A steel unibody-based car is a wide and thin spirited, fun-to-drive attitude, coupled with silver metallic radiator grille extending into a muscular stance and all-wheel drive capaLED headlights and the hood. Dual chrome bilities, render this Kia a best buy. The Koreexhaust tips and a spoiler are clearly visi- an automaker’s basic 10-year/100,000-mile ble in the rear. The cabin offers such helpful limited powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile amenities as a 10-way power driver and six- basic warranties.
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book.com/keelandcurFlorida blueberry farmleyatkeelfarms. It is ers will produce about 10 located at 5202 Thonoto 12 million tons of bluetosassa Rd. in Plant City. berries annually in this Call 752-9100. state. And, according to Lyna Berry Farms the U.S. Department of Blueberry U-Pick Agriculture’s National AgFrom the end of April ricultural Statistics Serthrough May, people can vice, blueberries are about come to Lyna Berry Farms a $60 million-a-year indusfor U-pick and pre-pick try in Florida. blueberries. Exact dates Wish Farms Blueberry and times will be deterU-Pick mined. The U-pick prices People can come to will be $2.50 per pound Wish Farms in Plant City Owners of Lyna Berry Farms Lyna (weighted at checkout) and pick fresh blueberKnight (l.) and Susan Weicherding (r). and pre-pick will be $4 ries right off the plants. This occurs every Saturday through May 1 per pound (in 2 lb. and 5 lb. packaging). For more information, or to sign up for at 10 a.m. It costs $7 per pound, and cash or credit credit will be the type of payment email notifications on U-picks, pre-picks methods accepted. Picking buckets will also dates and more, visit www.lynaberryfarms. be provided. Those who attend will need to com. Check out their Facebook page www. bring a container to transport the berries facebook.com/lynaberryfarms. It is located home. Free parking will also be available and at 11920 Neal Rd. in Lithia (FishHawk) and 17928 Bill Taylor Rd. in Lithia (Fort Loneregistration is not required. For more information, visit www.wish- some). Wishing Well Barn Blueberry U-Pick farms.com/berry-u-picks. Check out the From now until the end of May, Wishing Facebook page www.facebook.com/wishfarms. It is located at 1301 S. Frontage Rd. Well Barn will be offering U-pick blueberries in Plant City. For questions, email market- Monday through Thursday at 9 a.m. The blueberries will be at market price. ing@wishfarms.com. For questions, contact Michelle Welch at Keel Farms Blueberry U-Pick Visit the 20 acres of blueberry fields lo- 478-6554. Check out the Facebook page cated at Keel Farms in Plant City from now https://www.facebook.com/WishingWelluntil the entirety of its blueberry season for Barn. It is located at 4302 Pippin Rd. in U-pick. The blueberries will be on sale for $5 Plant City. Frosty Blue Farms Blueberry U-Pick per pound Monday through Friday beginThose interested in U-pick and ‘we-pick’ ning at 10 a.m. On Saturday and Sunday at 9 a.m., the blueberries will be $6 per pound. blueberries should reach out to Frosty Blue Parking will be free and it does not cost any- Farms as it typically takes place in mid-May thing for admission. In addition, the tasting and ends at the end of the month. Www.frostybluefarms.com/u-pick.html room will also be open at 11 a.m., Monday through Friday, for dining, tastings and to- FrostyBlueBlueberryFarm on FaceBook. It is located at 1907 Streetman Dr. in Lithia. Call go purchases. For more information, visit www.face- 689-7703.
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 31
GET THE DIRT:
STATE FAIR WILL FEATURE MUSIC, TRAPEZE AND MORE
DOE A DEER, A FEMALE DEER
BY LYNN BARBER, FLORIDA-FRIENDLY
Staff Report The Florida State Fair—rescheduled for Thursday, April 22 to Sunday, May 2—is counting down to its opening day on April 22. Hosted at the Florida State Fairgrounds, the fair features acres of entertainment, the largest midway in the United States and all of the fun fair foods people have come to love. All-day entertainment will include Daredevil Daze 2.0, Extreme Illusions, Fireguy, GASCAR Crazy Animal Races, Dark Knights, Criss Cross Flying Trapeze, One-Man Band, Hollywood Circus, Mango and Dango, Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show, Tour of Destruction Demolition Derby and more. The Florida State Fair will take place this year from Thursday, To view the full entertainment April 22 to Sunday, May 2. list, visit www.floridastatefair. Dash 5K presented by Sleep Number®. Becom/fair/entertainment. There will be a variety of promotional ginning at 7 a.m. on Saturday, May 1, the race will take participants through the exdays, including Heroes Day on April 22 with free admission for law enforcement, first citement of the 117th annual Florida State responders, active or retired military, doc- Fair. Runners will tour all the fair has to offer, tors, nurses as well as hospital and emergen- from the sights of exhilarating rides to the cy clinic staff with valid ID. Senior days will smells of fresh fair foods. For those who wish take place Monday to Thursday from April to stay socially distant, the virtual option of 22 to May 2 with discounted admission for the race will be open until Friday, April 30. All proceeds from the Deep-Fried Dash will seniors age 55-plus. benefit the Florida State Fair Foundation, a The Florida State Fair, first held in Tampa 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to in 1904, has become one of the largest events improve and support agricultural, scientifin the state, attracting more than 500,000 ic and educational programs at the Florida people during its 12-day run. Boasting the State Fair like Cracker Country Living Histolargest midway in the USA, a robust agriry Museum, AgVenture and more. cultural program, a circus, interactive animal Participants can register today at www. exhibits and new attractions each year, the floridastatefair.com/5k/. fair offers something for everyone. For more information, visit www.floridasIn addition to your usual fair fun, this year tatefair.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter will also be the second annual Deep-Fried and/or Instagram.
LANDSCAPING™ AGENT
This article is for those of you that are unhappy about deer damaging your landscape plants. For those of you who love to see deer in your landscape, there are publications mentioned near the end of this article that will help you learn about plants deer want to eat. As with pretty much everything, proper identification is the first step—a must-do. You can identify the cause of the damage by the type, height of damage and tracks (hoof prints). Just review the information in the link provided below. Deer and humans have some similar traits, such as issues with breaking habits once established. If they find a landscape with tasty, plentiful and nutrition-filled food sources, they may well eat to their hearts’—aka stomachs’—content. Hungry deer can consume native plant areas and decrease plant species populations. There are several ways to manage deer populations. Some methods can be permanent, like hunting during designated seasons. Research hunting deer before proceeding. Other deer population management methods involve avoiding specific plants to which deer are attracted. Crape myrtles
and gardenias sustain rare or minor damage by deer. Hibiscus is a favorite and not deer-resistant. Verbena, sage, marigolds and peace lilies are deer-resistant. Frightening devices (fireworks, etc.) may work temporarily, although you may irritate your neighbors at the same time. Removing wildlife habitats to decrease deer populations is not a good option. That removes cover, habitat and food sources for deer and other native and non-native birds and animals. Repellents can decrease the amount of damage but rarely eliminate it. Several options are contained in the articles above, but they are not endorsements. Bottom line: If you do want to attract deer, select plants that are susceptible to deer. If you don’t want to attract deer, plant deer-resistant plants. Visit https://ifas.ufl.edu and type ‘deer’ in the search field to reference two excellent publications on coping with deer damage and ornamental plant susceptibility to damage by deer published by the University of Florida. Visit the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County website at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ hillsborough/ and check out our calendar of events. Remember to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat. Contact Barber at labarber@ufl.edu.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
MEALS ON WHEELS IS SEEKING VOLUNTEERS IN TAMPA
By Samantha Trezevant
to 125 volunteers serving to help deliver meals to children that are not able to access meal distribution sites throughout the county and/or kids that have difficulty accessing food pantries. “My kids love the different types of food MOW4Kids brings,” said Bianca, MOW4Kids head of household. “The amount of food provided is always enough to get us by for that week and every single item is put to use. I also love the fruits and vegetables I receive—they are always so Volunteers packing Meals on Wheels boxes. fresh. You provide my kids the exMeals on Wheels has been providing a act nutrients they need. I am renew service to Hillsborough, Pasco and Pi- lieved I don’t have to worry how my family nellas Counties for a little over a year now. will eat this week or next because I know This amazing program runs through the MOW4Kids will be here and whatever they Tampa Network to End Hunger; Meals on bring will be enough for my family.” Wheels for Kids (MOW4Kids) specializes There are many ways to support Meals on in providing lunches to children who are Wheels. Volunteers are needed in order to learning remotely and run the risk of going serve the community. Background-checked hungry. The organization has served over volunteers drive their own vehicles to dehalf a million meals, and in order to contin- liver shelf-stable boxes of food and cold ue doing so, volunteers are needed. meal packs to children and families. DelivMOW4Kids is an innovative program ery begins at 10 a.m. and routes take about that launched as a result of school closures 60 minutes to complete. You can sign up due to the pandemic. The program seeks to to volunteer at www.networktoendhunger. serve any child and their families who may org/volunteer. need assistance, particularly the ones that If you are unable to volunteer, you can rely on the school to receive their breakfast still help support MOW4Kids. The Tampa and lunches through the National School Network to End Hunger is currently acLunch program. cepting donations at www.networktoendThe idea came to be when the pandemic hunger.org. A donation of just $20 will prostruck as the need for programs like this vide a week of Meals on Wheels for Kids were vital to getting children fed. So many deliveries to children in need. For additionhouseholds could not access grab-and-go al information, please call the network at school distribution meal sites due to no ac- 344-5837. To receive free meals delivered cess to a vehicle, unreliable transportation, to your home, visit https://networktoendnot being available to get to a pickup site hunger.org/mow4kidstampabay/ or call in time, a disability and more. This has led 344-5837.
Volume 20, Issue 5
TAMPA YMCA PARTNERS WITH AMERICAN RED CROSS FOR LIFEGUARD CERTIFICATION COURSES Staff Report This lifeguarding course at the Tampa Y is available for individuals 15 years and older, who will be required to complete a 300-yard swim, 2 minutes of treading water with no hands and diving 9 feet to retrieve a 10-pound brick on the first day of class. Upon successful completion, the lifeguard certification is valid for two years. “The American Red Cross is grateful for the opportunity to expand our lifesaving work with the Tampa YMCA,” said Aquatic and The Tampa YMCA is now offering American Red Cross Public Safety Specialist Patrick Lifeguard Certification Courses, which will run through Beason. “Water safety and resusemergency drills like this one at the Campo YMCA. citation are important skill sets to learn, especially in Tampa Bay, The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is teaming up with the American Red Cross to where we are surrounded by water.” The cost for the lifeguarding course is help save lives. Eleven Tampa YMCA family centers, including those in the Brandon $165 for YMCA members and $225 for area, are now offering American Red Cross nonmembers. Spots are limited, so register today at www.tampaymca.org/programs/ Lifeguard Certification Courses. The lifeguarding courses provide par- swim-programs/lifeguard-certification. The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is ticipants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic a cause-driven four-star charity, strengthemergencies and to provide care for breath- ening Hillsborough and East Pasco coming and cardiac emergencies as well as oth- munities for 132 years through youth development, healthy living and social reer injuries and illnesses. “The Tampa YMCA is excited to collabo- sponsibility. Across the association, 18 farate with the American Red Cross to add cilities engage nearly 224,000 men, women these vital courses to the list of programs and children—regardless of age, income or we offer to ensure the safety of the commu- background—to nurture the potential of nity,” said Tampa YMCA Aquatics Executive children and teens, improve our commuAmanda Walker. “As a part of the Tampa nity’s health and well-being and provide YMCA’s drowning prevention programs, opportunities to give back and support offering these lifesaving courses to the neighbors. The Tampa Y has long-standing communities we serve is one more step in relationships and a physical presence not reaching our goal of helping Tampa Bay res- just to promise, but to deliver lasting peridents be as safe as possible in and around sonal and social change. Visit www.tampaymca.org for more information. the water.”
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2021
Page 33
Its major season on tour, and what does the world are ecstatic to break par and that mean? As the temperatures around which usually has a score of 1 under that the country heat up so does the golf com- wins the event. This year at Torrey Pines petition. This past year, with COVID-19 marks the 121st playing of the U.S. Open. causing havoc on pretty much all major The PGA Championship is designed to let sporting events, the the PGA of America golf world was left highlight its members wondering what as well as the clubs would happen to they run around the the majors. The country. This chamPGA Tour has four pionship is contested majors on the books at various courses every year. Besides around the county. In the fact that prize the golf business there money awards in are PGA Tour pros these events are and PGA club pros. primarily the highThe two only compete est of all the tour against each other in events during the the PGA Championyear, the fields that ship. The top 20 club make up the majors pros compete against tend to have a more My son and I on the Swilcan Bridge on the 18th the best in the game. hole of the Old Course at St Andrews. international flair The Open Champiwith players from all around the world onship, or as we in the states call it, the playing courses that are usually set up in British Open Championship, takes place a manner that tests even the best play- in the British Isles and is golf’s original ers. The four majors consist of the Mas- major. This year marks the 149th Open ters, PGA Championship, U.S. Open and Championship. The Open Championship is The Open Championship (British Open). hosted in a 14-club rotation with courses The Masters is always played at the Au- in Scotland, England and Ireland, with the gusta National Golf Club in Georgia and most famous course being the Old Course what most people don’t know is this is an at St Andrews, which is the oldest golf invitational event that is run by the golf course in the world where the first docucourse itself and not the PGA Tour. Like mented rounds were played back to 1552. the Masters, the majors have great history If you missed the Masters this past associated with each one of them. The U.S. month, don’t miss the remaining upcomOpen, which is run by the USGA (golf’s gov- ing majors. Don’t forget, if you have any erning body), has always had their courses comments or questions, feel free to reach set up in a way that the best golfers in out to me at golfguyosprey@gmail.com.
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Page 34
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2021
GFWC BRANDON SERVICE LEAGUE PRESENTS FUNDS TO AREA NONPROFITS AND HIGH SCHOOLS By Kathy L. Collins On April 19, the nity impact are taken GFWC Brandon into consideration. Service League Each year, a commitheld its first Spring tee puts together a list Sporting Clays of organizations and Fundraiser Shoot presents them to club and Dinner at for selection.” FishHawk SportCheryl Hickman, ing Clays in Lithia. founder and executive The event was an director of Hope for opportunity for Her, said, “25 the members to percent of celebrate and pres- The GFWC Brandon Service League homeless are ent funds to several is made up of a group of vivacious women. We area nonprofits and and caring women who work tirehelp them relessly to serve the Greater Brandon area high schools. gain stability community. After a year of no The event was en- in-person gatherings, they were able and get them joyed by one and all. to come together and celebrate at the first event back on their feet. This The members of the of 2021 and present funds to area nonprofits donation will directly and high schools. club were excited impact what we are to present proceeds able to do.” from the 2019 Holiday Home Tour. In total, Swanson said, “This was our first event $5,400 was presented to Brandon Out- since the COVID-19 shutdown. We have reach Clinic, Hope for Her (formerly known held regular meetings live and via Zoom as the Women’s Resource Center of Bran- since September 2020, but this was our don), Winthrop Arts, Choices Pregnancy first community event.” Center, New Horizons Group Homes and Swanson added, “We want the commuthe arts departments from six area high nity to know that GFWC Brandon Service schools (Brandon, Bloomingdale, New- League is still here. We have been quiet for some, Durant, Armwood and Riverview). over a year, with no events and no club Bradlee Swanson, co-president of the news. We are cautiously opening up our GFWC Brandon Service League, said, “We doors, so to speak, with more club events were excited to be able to finally make and community outings. We are accepting those donations. As the world was put on new members and love to have visitors. hold for most of 2020, it is a wonderful Our club service year is winding down, feeling to know that we are back out in but we be will working over the summer the community trying to make a difference to plan events and club gatherings for the with our donations.” fall. We meet the second Thursday of each Swanson added, “We choose our non- month, September to May, at New Hope profit recipients for a variety of reasons. United Methodist Church in Brandon.” The needs of the nonprofit organization For more information, please visit www. along with their involvement and commu- gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org.
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BRANDON LEAGUE OF FINE ARTS RETURNS TO CENTER PLACE FINE ARTS & CIVIC ASSOCIATION By Libby Hopkins In 1959, a group of Brandon area artists and art lovers first organized what was to become the Brandon League of Fine Arts. Wishing to support and encourage the cultural life of the Greater Brandon area, these dedicated men and women formed an organization called the Brandon Area Art Center. In 1977, the Brandon Area Art Center’s name was changed to the Brandon League of Fine Arts to better reflect the growing scope of the members’ interests. “I have been a part of the group since the beginning,” said member Roxanne Tobaison. “I have held various offices with the league at one time or the other, but what I like most about being a part of the league is the friendships I’ve made over the years.” The league has had a close relationship with Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association. When the recent COVID-19 pandemic hit, Center Place had to close its doors. With so many arts programs and museums closing due to the pandemic, Center Place was almost forced to close permanently. “We were so thrilled when the Odiorne family and the new Center Place board stepped up to reopen Center Place,” said member Doreen Donovan. “The league is
now able to have their Studio Mondays, members’ meetings and member shows because the league is back at Center Place. We are finally back home.” The league maintains a close relationship with Center Place and provides support for monthly The Brandon League of art exhibitions Fine Arts has been a part in the Mook Galof Center Place Fine Arts lery. “When I first & Civic Association for moved to Brandon many years. It is thrilled to be back at Center Place years ago, I heard creating art and holding about the Brandon League of Fine their monthly meetings. Arts and I came to a meeting and I loved it,” said member Sue Allen. “The artists are wonderful and the friendships I have made with them over the years are priceless.” The purpose of the league is to inspire interest in the arts through educational programs, to promote advancement of members by providing opportunities to exhibit their work and to serve the community through enrichment of the cultural climate. If you would like to learn more about the Brandon League of Fine Arts or if you’d like to become a member of the league, you can visit their website at www.blfa.us. The league’s general membership meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Mook Gallery of Center Place, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL HOSTS JAZZ FESTIVAL
By Kate Quesada
Jazz fans, Ac c o rd i n g mark your calento Ochalek, dars. Newsome The Jazz ExHigh School perience will is hosting jazz take the stage bands from nine under the local schools and stars at 9 p.m. a professional “We are jazz group at the asking specfirst annual A tators to Night Under The bring their Stars Jazz Festiown chair or val next month. blanket; it’s The event, going to be which will take out on the place on Satur- Newsome High School is hosting jazz bands from nine local football field,” day, May 1 from schools and a professional jazz group at the first annual A said Ochalek. Night Under The Stars Jazz Festival next month. 1-10 p.m., will Parking at feature bands from Barthe school is free and rington Middle School, attendees are welRiverview High School, come to come and go Armwood High School, throughout the day. Spoto High School, “It is an event geared Robinson High School, for families, not just Bloomingdale High adults,” said Ochalek. School, H.B. Plant High Although this is the School, Plant City High first event of its kind at School and Newsome the school, hopes are High School. There will for it to become an analso be a featured pernual event. formance by professional jazz group The “This is our inaugural event, [and] our Jazz Experience. goal is to have this event every spring,” “Enjoy a full day and evening of music said Ochalek. “April is international jazz featuring area school jazz bands, food month and we will hope to tie it in during trucks and fun,” said Music Showcase’s the month of April and the beginning first Heather Ochalek. week of May every year.” The festival will be a full-day event with The festival is open to the public and something for everyone, including a raffle. tickets can be purchased in advance at “The goal is to increase jazz music www.newsomeband.com or at the door. awareness to bring community together The tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for and rise above through COVID and adver- students 18 years old and younger. Those sity,” said Ochalek. “We are really looking 3 and younger are free. forward to this event.”
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Volume 20, Issue 5
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
BRANDON BALLET ANNOUNCES RICHARD MUNRO SCHOLARSHIP WINNER AND AUDITIONS FOR SUMMER INTENSIVE The 2020 winner of the Richard Munro three-week program designed to enhance Memorial Scholarship is Mariela Morales, technique and artistry in an inclusive yet a young dancer who has been performing intensive preprofessional environment. with The Dance Center Attendees will work with and Brandon Ballet for a variety of renowned over 10 years. dance teachers in a range Hannah Townend, adof styles, including conministrative director for temporary, improvisation the Brandon Ballet, said, and modern, in addition “Morales is one who is to daily classes in ballet admired by her peers and technique and pointe. Brandon Ballet Artistic Through their exposure to Director Doricha Sales for these assorted genres of her innate, vivacious permovement, dancers will formance presence and have the opportunity to her ability to blossom unreinforce their skills as der pressure. In just this well as learn repertoire season alone, Morales and/or variations in that has tackled and shone in style. Mariela Morales, a young dancer with The Dance Center and three of the hardest variAccording to Townend, ations from La Bayadere, Brandon Ballet, is the 2020 winner “This year’s list of guest of the Richard Munro Memorial Raymonda and Goddess teachers is extensive. JaScholarship. Flora in our production cob Taylor, an emerging of For the Love of Aurora. choreographer based in Morales is a driven, intellectual Connecticut and New York dancer and she plans to take the City, will be creating an origlife lessons learned in the dance inal contemporary ballet studio to pursue an education piece for the advanced dancand career in nursing.” ers. Courtney Moody is a Morales said of her scholarcurrent Brandon Ballet prinship win, “I am thrilled to have cipal professional dancer and received this scholarship and am honored teacher at The Dance Center. Allison Jay and inspired to continue dancing.” Barber is an exquisite dancer with a proYou can see Morales’ joyful dancing in lific performance career and a current adthe fourth and final production of the sea- junct ballet professor at Florida Southern son, The Agony and the Ecstasy, on Satur- College. We will also have Doricha Sales, day, May 1 at 7:30 p.m. at Riverview High Marquis Floyd, Rose Forte Hensley, Sarah Theatre. You can get tickets and more in- Parry, Hannah Townend and Brentwood formation at www.brandonballet.org. Townend.” Brandon Ballet offers serious dancers Prospective dancers who would like to an opportunity to improve their skills and audition can submit a video audition by work with talented dancers in its Sum- Saturday, May 22 at 5 p.m. For more inmer Intensive. Brandon Ballet’s Summer formation, please visit www.brandonbalIntensive is a progressive and cumulative let.org/summer.
Page 37
FLORIDA HOUSING FINANCE CORPORATION
ANNOUNCES STATEWIDE ART CONTEST FOR CHILDREN The Florida Housing Finance Corporation has announced the launch of its statewide art contest. The contest is for children ages 5 to 18. Children are invited to submit a drawing that depicts their vision of this year’s theme, which is ‘What Does Home Mean To You?’. The Children ages 5 to 18 are invited to design a piece of artwork that deadline to submit an depicts their vison of ‘What Does Home Mean To You?’ for the Florida entry is Monday, May 3. Housing Finance Corporation’s statewide art contest. The purpose of the please visit www.floridahousing.org/ contest is to increase awareness on the artcontest. Students can mail the entry importance of having a home by encour- to Florida Housing Finance Corporation, aging children across the state to use Attn: External Affairs Department, 227 their imaginations to illustrate what N. Bronough St., # 5000, Tallahassee, FL their home truly means. A Florida Hous- 32301. ing Finance Corporation committee will The Florida Housing Finance Corporareview all designs and select the top 40, tion will have an evaluation committee which will then be prominently displayed who will select the top 40 winners in in the Florida Housing Finance Corpora- late May. The winning artworks will be tion building in Tallahassee in honor of announced on the Florida Housing FiNational Homeownership Month in June. nance Corporation’s webpage. Winners “We are excited to kick off this state- will also be announced on social media, wide art contest at a time when having a and the artwork will be displayed in the place to call home is more important now in the Florida Housing Finance Corporathan ever before,” said Trey Price, execu- tion building throughout the month of tive director of Florida Housing Finance June. Corporation. “Leading up to National The Florida Housing Finance CorpoHomeownership Month, Florida Housing ration was created by the Florida State wanted to bring back this fun initiative Legislature 40 years ago. The Florito engage with kids while also increasing da Housing Finance Corporation is the awareness of the need and significance state of Florida’s housing finance agency of quality, affordable housing for all Flo- (HFA) that administers state and federridians,” added Price. al resources to help provide affordable Once the drawing is completed, chil- homeownership and rental housing opdren can upload an image of their art- tions for the citizens of Florida. work and submit it online or mail their For more information, please visit drawing. To submit the entry online, www.floridahousing.org.
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Page 38
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
MOTHER’S DAY IS A GREAT DAY TO SHOP LOCAL FOR MOM By Tatiana Ortiz With Mother’s Day just around the corner, one may still be searching for that unique gift to be given on this special day. If unsure of where to begin, you could visit local businesses in the area for guidance and ideas. Who knows what types of neat items will be found for your loved ones this Mother’s Day. The Spot At FishHawk Visit The Spot at FishHawk in Lithia from Sunday, May 2 through Sunday, May 9 to receive $5 off the wine and candle combo. This includes a wine bottle and an 8-ounce soy wax candle. The candles come in various scents, such as Lilac, Ocean Breeze and more. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/TheSpotAtFishhawk. It is located at 16132 Churchview Dr., Ste. 112 in Lithia. Open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., and Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Call 315-9803. Ragamuffin Outpost Check out Ragamuffin Outpost in ValriRAGAMUFFIN co for neat gift ideas such as home decor, OUTPOST tumblers, jewelry, candles and much more. Prices vary depending on the item. It offers custom and handmade pieces too. For more information, visit ragamuffinoutpost.com. It is located at 1040 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico and open on Monday (by appointment); Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sunday, 12 Noon-4 p.m. Call 654-2834. Nothing Bundt Cakes Riverview Order a sweet treat from Nothing
Bundt Cakes in Riverview to bring home for Mother’s Day. It offers an array of nine classic cake flavors, which includes red velvet, chocolate chocolate chip, classic vanilla and more, with many size options. For more information, visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com/bakery/FL/riverview-fl. It is located at 11238 Sullivan St. in Riverview and open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; on Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 4092394. McAuley Fine Jewelry Check out McAuley Fine Jewelry in Brandon for a special Mother’s Day sale offering 25 percent off of all watches and jewelry until Sunday, May 9. Other gift ideas at McAuley Fine Jewelry for Mother’s Day include 14Kt, white gold, four-prong, diamond studs with 3/4 ct. as well as 14Kt, yellow
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gold, inside out, diamond, oval-shaped hoop earrings with 1.3 ct. For more information, visit www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com. It is located at 664 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon and open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and on Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 689-8124. The Cottonseed Marketplace The Cottonseed Marketplace in Valrico offers photo-engraved, 5” by 7” puzzles made from solid cherry wood. All one would need to do is provide a photo and it will get engraved onto the puzzle with the saying, “Mom, you are the piece that holds us together.” This costs $35. A highlighted gift this year would be the Limited Edition Wooden Charcuterie Boards. They come in two sizes, with one being 10” x 10” square board with a 4-inch handle and the other a 15” x 7” rectangular board with a 4-inch handle. These items are available in solid walnut and solid cherry wood. For those interested in getting a monogram or family name added to it, that would be $50. On the other hand, a handwritten recipe costs $70. These items are created and designed in Valrico. For more information, visit https://cottonseedmarketplace.com. Check out its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ TheCottonseedMarketplace. It is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Email info@cottonseedmarketplace.com.
LeAnne’s Old Fashioned Cookies Take a bite into some tasty desserts such as ones from LeAnne’s Old Fashioned Cookies. For Mother’s Day, consider a large gift box consisting of 24 individually wrapped assorted brownies and cookies. The box is wrapped in daisy cellophane with a yellow bow. The cost is $31.25, which includes the price of shipping. To add, the large tower gift box contains 36 individually wrapped assorted brownies and cookies. The tower is wrapped in lily cellophane with a lavender bow. The price for this item would be $42.50, which includes the cost of shipping. For more information, visit https:// leannescookies.com. Call 651-0045 or text 748-7041. Daniella’s Mobile Massage Relax this Mother’s Day and enjoy a massage from Daniella’s Mobile Massage. It will be offering a package where one buys three hour-long massages and gets the fourth one free. The massages cost $70 an hour. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/DaniellasMobileMassage. It is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m., and on Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Call 323-4901.
DANIELLA’S MOBILE MASSAGE
Latitudes Tours Travel along the Little Manatee River, which is also part of the Tampa Bay Estuary for a guided Sunset Dinner Cruise with Latitudes Tours for Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 9. Latitudes Tours partnered up with Sunset Grill as it will provide a special menu with premium options for an additional cost. Prices start at $50. With limited space available, reservations are required. For more information or to book a tour, visit http://latitudestours.com or call 6411311.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
May 2021
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE OFFERS A NEW CAREER PATH TO FORMER INMATES
COUNTY STAFF FILL NEED WITH NEW BICYCLE RECYCLING PROGRAM By Bob Zoellner
Bicycles that are dropped off at collection centers, including the South County Community Collection Center in Gibsonton, will all get the once over and turned into good, solid bikes for needy children.
Two Hillsborough County Solid Waste employees saw a fair amount of bicycles come through their facility at the Northwest Community Collection Center (NCCC) in Tampa, with metal parts getting recycled and the rest getting trashed. For Kenneth Walker of Tampa, a transfer equipment operator, and Ronald Milligan, also of Tampa, an equipment operator, there had to be a better use for these bikes, especially ones that still had life left in them. They spoke to their managers about rescuing these bicycles from destruction. The idea went up the chain of command to the department director, who approved the idea. Now, after fixing up these bikes as needed, they are donated to Hillsborough County Children’s Services for distribution. This is a change from the norm, as employees and users of the county’s services are not allowed to scavenge or salvage items brought
for disposal, said Jason Bishop, operations superintendent at the Northwest facility. “We’re very proud that they took the initiative,” Bishop added. “This is a winwin scenario. A little kid gets a bike and we take stuff out of the landfill. It’s definitely a win-win.” Bicycles that are dropped off at the Northwest Community Collection Center in Tampa, the Alderman Ford Community Collection Center in Plant City, the South County Community Collection Center in Gibsonton and the Hillsborough Heights Community Collection Center in Seffner will all get the once over and turned into good, solid bikes for needy children. Employees do the refurbishing at the NCCC, sometimes paying for parts or using items off of other bicycles. They also repair brakes, tires, tubes and pedals, as well as swapping out seats as needed. Once ready, the bikes are stored at the Northwest facility, and eventually passed on to Children’s Services to be distributed to those in need. In the future, other departments may also be recipients of some bikes, according to Jose Patino, a media relations strategist for the county. Because of its success, the county is looking into other items for potential rescuing and repurposing too. Updates can be found at https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/government/departments/solid-waste.
Page 39
By Libby Hopkins
help on how to build a resume so that they can apply for jobs and interview with prospective employers. Most importantly, they will have the skills necessary to gain employment so they don’t have to return to the life they once lived.” The center had 17 inmates graduate from the various programs this past December. One inmate recently released notiThe Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is proud to fied his instructors that he had have its Vocational Training Center. Over the last year and landed a job at a tire shop. “I’m a half, HCSO constructed a 10,000-square-foot facility that incredibly proud to see the proghouses four new programs offered to inmates. Inmates can ress these inmates have made learn trades like welding, carpentry, forklift driving and basic in such a short amount of time, automotive services. and I’m hopeful that by offering the chance to learn a trade, these The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is proud to have its Vocational individuals will use their new skill set to Training Center. Over the last year and a become productive members of our comhalf, HCSO constructed a 10,000-square- munity after finishing their sentences,” foot facility that houses four new pro- said Chronister. “This is a huge step in our grams offered to inmates. “Since stepping detention facility towards reducing recidiinto my role as sheriff, I’ve always said, we vism.” HCSO was thrilled to announce that it cannot arrest our way out of crime,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “One of my first had its first women’s class to graduate priorities as sheriff was to create a holistic from the agency’s Vocational Training Cenapproach to reduce the rate of recidivism ter. “I am thrilled for these nine women as they embark on what will hopefully be the in our community.” Inmates are given the opportunity to beginning of a new chapter in their lives,” learn trades like welding and carpentry. said Chronister. “The goal of the Vocational They can also learn how to operate a fork- Training Center is to make sure we provide lift and how to perform basic automotive inmates with an education and equip them services. The Vocational Training Center with a skill set so they don’t have to find was built to prepare inmates for life after themselves back in here. With this certifithey finish their sentences. “This vocation- cate in hand, they can apply for jobs once al training program is part of a ground- they leave our jail and become productive breaking approach to reduce recidivism,” members of our community. We now have said Chronister. “Inmates who complete 47 inmates who have graduated from our the curriculum will leave with a certificate welding and automotive services proin their chosen field. They’ll also receive grams.”
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Page 40
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 41
SUMMER CAMPS OFFER MANY OPTIONS TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED Have you got the calendar ready? Last summer, most children’s fun plans were affected by the pandemic, but this year, organizations all over the area are ready to keep children active, engaged and, most importantly, safe during the time off school. The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull-out section. We asked local camps what they are doing to keep students healthy while giving them the summer of fun they deserve. At Music Showcase, music and theater take the stage, and so can your child. Musicals will be offered where your child can hold starring roles in popular musicals offered by the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up. The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps at its great summer camp location, Camp Cristina in Riverview, which mixes fun along with great learning experiences. With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone. A Child’s Haven offers kitchen-pre-
pared meals and various activities for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Weekly themes utilizing age-specific activities and field trips are what make BSAC’s Camp High 5 unique.
Specialty camps for soccer (Florida Hawks FC), baseball (Ostingers Academy)
basketball and flag football (FishHawk Fellowship Church) and art (Center Place) also offer great opportunities for creative and athletic summer learning. Kids ‘R’ Kids at Circa FishHawk and Valrico offer full and half-day summer fun with weekly field trips and themes. What better skill to learn in the summer than scuba diving and Trilogy Dive Center makes it easy with a week-long course for children 10 and older with pick up from BSAC in Brandon. After 16 years of bringing successful STEM camps to the Brandon area, Tech-
Playzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place and virtually for families who prefer to stay at home. For dates, prices and registration information on these camps and more, turn the pages, enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Our staff has also compiled information on the COVID-19 policies from temperature checks to sanitation procedures for these camps to help you feel confident on where you want to send your children this summer. Watch for our Summer Camp Sweepstakes link where the Osprey Observer will buy your child a week of camp at the summer camp of your choice! Enter now by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp Free’) contest@ospreyobserver.com. Did we miss a great summer camp option? Let us know by emailing (subject line ‘Summer Camp’) kquesada@ ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add it to our full listing online. Have a great summer of fun!
Page 42
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FLORIDA ACADEMY OF THE PERFORMING ARTS AT MUSIC SHOWCASE HOSTS A VARIETY OF SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS By Kelly Wise Valdes Summer is right around the corner and campers can sign up for music-oriented many families are already looking for fun camps where they can experience differsummer camp activities for their children. ent instruments, voice, acting, dance and Summer camps build memories and friend- art. Camps are structured by age, ability ships that can last a lifetime. If you have and interests. The benefits of participating an aspiring actor, musician or entertainer in arts education include improved acain your family, demic performance and then the Floriincreased self-esteem. da Academy of Danielle Sanchez, the Performing director of FAOPA, is Arts (FAOhappy to offer families PA) at Music programs that allow Showcase is their children a unique exactly what summer camp you’re looking experience. for. “It’s great seeTo keep eving the students The Florida Academy of the eryone safe, many progress so Performing Arts is hosting protocols are be- its annual summer camp quickly in their ing implemented, programs at Music Showcase in Brandon. Regis- craft, come together as including masks, a team and form friendtration begins in mid-March. limited camp sizes ships that last a lifetime,” and temperature checks. Students will be said Sanchez. “We hear from the parents able to bring their own food and beverages and students that they like the energy, the (labeled with their name). professionalism, the sense of inclusion and There are many camp options, including belonging, the opportunity to work with full and half-day camps for musical theater talented and loving directors and the variwith full performances at the end and cos- ety of programming and activities.” tumes, props and set designs. Some of the The Florida Academy of Performing Arts musicals that will be performed are Honk is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonder- was established to support the performing land Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musi- arts through programs at the academy and cal Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway in the community. for the Decades and The Addams Family. Camp registration opens in mid-March. Also offered is an a cappella camp, For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org Broadway boot camp, acting intensives or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is locatand acting improv camp. In addition, ed at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
Florida Hawks FC Summer Camp
“Soccer Fun with Coach Juan”
Volume 20, Issue 5
BSAC’S SUMMER CAMP PRESENTS THIS YEAR’S THEME: PEACE, LOVE AND HIGH 5
By Hayley Fedor
Let the fun families during and games bethe pandemic. gin because the Hand sanitizing Brandon Sports stations will and Aquatic be provided Center (BSAC) throughout the is getting ready property and to welcome masks are manback children datory upon grades K 5 entry. Both parthrough sixth ticipants and for Camp High staff will also 5 this summer. undergo a temBSAC is doperature check ing something at the start of special with the each day at camp this year the camp. and taking a In light Camp High 5 keeps children Retro Approach of the panengaged and energized with a to their camp demic, this variety of activities. theme. Peace, summer, Love & High 5 kicks off on Tuesday, June 1. BSAC will Each week will feature a different theme be capping based off of a musical era, starting in the the camp at 50s and working all the way up to today. 200 particiAt BSAC and through Camp High 5, chil- pants. dren are able to participate in a variety of Camp High 5 will begin on Monday, June recreations that are based around aquat- 1st and will be in session on weekdays, ics, arts and crafts as well as sports. Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. “A lot of what our kids do is the aquatic at BSAC, which is located at 405 Beverly time so they’re in the pool, but they’re also Blvd. in Brandon. Registration is currently outdoors participating in sports and rec- open and will be available until each week reational activities,” said Chuck Burgess, of the camp has reached its capacity. CEO. To register your child for camp or to find Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking out more information about Camp High 5 extra preventative measures this summer and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Cento ensure the safety of participants and ter, visit https://www.mybsac.org/camp.
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May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 43
SAFE AND FUN SUMMER CAMPS AT YMCA
KIDS ‘R’ KIDS PREPARES FOR A FUN SUMMER
By Libby Hopkins
By Libby Hopkins
Camp 2021, based on recommendations from the CDC and local health officials come June,” Llerena said. “We are in constant communiYMCA is gearing up for a safe, fun summer with their upcomcation with our ing camps. Many COVID-19 safety protocols are in place to camper families ensure campers are safe while attending camps this summer. and will send “Summer is the ideal time for kids to get them vital information up, get out and explore. But, for some kids, and policies about all summer means no access to recreational the extra precautions we are taking to preand educational activities. That’s why the vent the spread of COVID-19 at our camps. Tampa YMCA offers summer camp, to We want parents to feel as comfortable as make sure kids and teens in the Tampa Bay possible with our camping process.” area are adventurous, active and healthy Before children and staff are checked in, this summer,” said Tampa Metropolitan their temperatures are taken for the safeArea YMCA Senior Communications Directy and well-being of others in the camp. tor Lalita Llerena. “At the YMCA, we know Those running a temperature of 100.4-plus that when kids accomplish more, make new degrees cannot attend. There will also be friends and feel like they belong, they are staggered curbside check-in. developing the skills they need to be sucCampers will remain in same low ratio cessful in life.” groups throughout the week. There will Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, be “individual and spaced out activities to fun day camp program this summer. “YMCA practice safe social distancing where posSummer Camp is led by a team of kind, sible when inside and limited sharing of trustworthy individuals committed to cresupplies,” Llerena said. “There will be ample ating a safe place for campers to practice access to handwashing and hand sanitizsocial skills and character values,” Llerena er stations, especially at check-in, before said. “Our values-based camp curriculum meals and after restroom use. YMCA staff will help campers develop self-reliance, a intentionally teach and encourage good love for the outdoors, positive attitudes and values that build character and leadership, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and all amidst the fun of swimming, creative follow a strict sick child/staff policy.” In arts, crafts, sports, outdoor nature educa- Hillsborough County, all staff and members (ages 5 and up) are required to wear a face tion and field games.” The YMCA is focused on COVID-19 safe- covering indoors while not exercising or ty for its summer camps as well. “Safety participating in youth sports. Visit www.tampaymca.org/letscamp. protocols will continue for YMCA Summer
Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy pro- Kids is excited to kick off Summer Camp vides a secure, nurturing and educational Focus on Fun,” Fernandes said. “Week after environment for children. Its school is a week of awesome activities are designed place for children to bloom into responsi- around a variety of engaging themes. It’s ble, considerate and contributing members all about double the fun, double the smiles of society. “With a and double the memories.” love of children at Each week of camp offers our core, each Kids a different theme and each ‘R’ Kids facility is camp has COVID-19 safety family-owned and protocols in place. “We will operated by local continue to monitor this residents to enrapidly evolving situation sure a solid sense and follow the recommenof community,” dations of the World Health said Owner Ben Organization, Public Health Fernandes. “Kids Departments, CDC, Child ‘R’ Kids Learning Care Licensing, state and loKids ‘R’ Kids offers a variety of weekly Academies are na- themed summer camps. All COVID-19 cal officials,” Fernandes said. tionally renowned “The safety and well-being of safety protocols and procedures are and our academy in place to ensure campers’ safety this the children in our care, their summer. is proud to be part families and our staff are our of your community. We desire the abso- highest priority and is at the core of our lute best for the children in our care and, Kids ‘R’ Kids mission and policies. We have therefore, we provide a safe and secure, been the pioneers in providing the best state-of-the-art environment with on-site in safety features and procedures, and owners.” we will continue to lead the way. We are COVID-19 safety is a priority with Fer- keeping our camp sizes small, masks are nandes and his staff. “During the pandem- required indoors and social distancing will ic, we went virtual,” Fernandes said. “Now be practiced.” we are focusing on our kids having a safe Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from and fun summer. We know a lot of our kids Tuesday, June 1 through Friday, August had cabin fever over the last few months 6. Spaces are limited for their camps. If and now we want them to get outside and you’d like to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids’ enjoy their summer.” camps, visit www.kidsrkids.com/valrico/ Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer pro- programs/summer-camp or call 657-6200. grams in 2004 and since then it has grown The campus is located at 4321 Lynx Paw to offer a variety of programming. “Kids ‘R’ Trl. in Valrico.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
FishHawk Fellowship Church Offers Basketball And More Sports lovers take note. FishHawk Fellowship Church is hosting a sports camp this summer, which will include soccer, flag football and basketball. In order to prioritize safety, the camp will be limited to 100 attendees and masks will be mandated during sign-in and checkin, but playtime will not require masks. All camp materials and equipment will be sanitized daily and campers are asked to bring their own snacks. FishHawk Fellowship Church is located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia and can be reached at 655-7431. For more information, visit www.fishhawkfc.org/ sports. Soccer Fun With Coach Juan If your athlete is looking for a fun way to improve soccer skills this summer, look no further that the Florida Hawks Futbol Club’s Soccer Fun with Coach Juan camp taking place from Monday to Friday, July 5-9 at the FishHawk Sports Complex. The camp is open to boys and girls born between 2009 and 2014. According to Juan de Brigard, director of coaching, the camp will have a limit of 96 campers and groups no larger than 12 players, with one coach
and one helper, temperature check stations and strict policies about not coming to camp with any symptoms or sharing equipment. To learn more, visit www.floridahawksfc.com. Trilogy Dive Center Offers Scuba Certification Camps What better opportunity than a summer camp to learn to scuba dive? Trilogy Dive Center is offering weeklong scuba certification camps at Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) for children 10 and older. The camp includes transportation from BSAC, classroom academics and all equipment during the class. COVID-19 protocols include small class sizes (maximum of 12 students), masks required indoors, handwashing and sanitizer stations, temperature checks on arrival and cleaning and sanitization of all equipment. To learn more, visit www.TrilogyScuba.com or call 425-3500. Ostingers Invites Baseball Players For Four Camp Sessions With a combined 30 years of professional playing and coaching experience, Ostingers Baseball coaches are ready to provide little athletes with safe fun this summer. Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players 7-14 years of
SUMMER CAMP AT
T.L.C.’S GYPSY HAVEN!
Volume 20, Issue 5
age. There will be a ratio of no more than 5:1 campers to instructors, allowing for more social distancing, instruction and reps during the camp. All campers must wear masks while in instruction groupings, even when social distancing. While outside, players can remove their masks if they are able to socially distance themselves during small group work. There will be hand sanitizing stations and the academy will be disinfected before the day begins and after the day is over each day. When arriving at camp each morning, all campers and instructors will be given a temperature check to make sure there are no issues. To learn more, visit www.OstingBaseball. com or call 737-3000. TechPlayzone Celebrates 16 Years Of STEM Camps After 16 years of bringing successful STEM camps to the Brandon area, TechPlayzone will host camps this year at the newly reopened Center Place. Camps will begin in July and will run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon for rising second through fifth grade students. Afternoon sessions with a virtual option will also be available. COVID-19 protocols include temperature checks, regular sanitization, masks and small group sizes (four to five campers per group all week).
To learn more, visit www.techplayzone. com or call 444-2267. BSAC Highlights Music For Annual Camp Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center (BSAC) is getting ready to welcome back children grades K5 through sixth for Camp High 5 this summer. BSAC is doing something special with the camp this year by highlighting music and incorporating musical components throughout the event; the grand theme for the summer is called Peace, Love and High 5. Additionally, the staff at BSAC are taking extra preventative measures this summer to ensure the safety of participants and families during the pandemic. Hand sanitizing stations will be provided throughout the property and masks are mandatory upon entry. Both participants and staff will also undergo a temperature check at the start of each day at the camp. For more information about Camp High 5 and the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center, visit mybsac.org. Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Summer Camp And More Kids ‘R’ Kids started their summer programs in 2004 and since then it has grown to offer a variety of programming.
NOW REGISTERING Limited Space (10 spots weekly) Call TODAY!
K5-5th Grade Arts & Crafts • Friendship Play • Academic Summer Fun • Music Sports & Games • Character & Manners • Ice Cream Social • Pizza Parties Bouncy House & Giant Slide • Outdoor Water Play
For ages 8 - 99 Weekly Themed Horse Back Riding Camps Hands On Experience & Education
Come learn about: RIDING • GROOMING Monday - Friday Camps 9 A.M. to 2 P.M.
$115/wk (Upcoming K5 - 5th Grade Campers)
Includes Weekly Field Trip & All Activities
With Friday Educational Field Trips!
May 31st - August 2nd We are just ten minutes east of FishHawk! 4325 Keysville Rd., Lithia Call Tammi at 813.842.4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com (Deposit required to reserve your spot.)
VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:
TLCSFARMS.COM
www.MorningGloryPreschool.org
May 2021
Each week of camp offers a different theme and each camp has COVID-19 safety protocols in place. The organization is continuing to monitor recommendations of the World Health Organization, Public Health Departments, CDC, Child Care Licensing, state and local officials and is keeping camp sizes small, masks are required indoors and social distancing will be practiced. Kids ‘R’ Kids camps will be offered from Tuesday to Friday, June 1 through August 6. Spaces are limited for its camps. For more Performing Arts Camp To Be Held At Music Showcase The Florida Academy of the Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase will offer many camp options, including full and halfday camps for musical theater with full performances at the end and costumes, props and set designs. Some of the musicals that will be performed are Honk Jr., Singing in the Rain Jr., Alice in Wonderland Jr., Newsies Jr., Little Mermaid, Musical Revue - Disney on Broadway, Broadway for the Decades and The Addams Family. To keep everyone safe, many protocols are being implemented, including masks, limited camp sizes and temperature checks. Students will be able to bring their own food and beverages (labeled with their name). For further details, visit www.FAOPA.org
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
or call 490-2787. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. YMCA Has Camps For All Following a very successful summer in 2020, where the YMCA safely served more than 12,000 campers across Hillsborough and Eastern Pasco Counties, the Tampa YMCA is excited to provide a safe, fun day camp program this summer. With locations throughout the area offering activities from fishing to arts and crafts and much more, the YMCA has something to offer children ages 6 and older with most interests. Before children and staff are checked in, their temperatures are taken for the safety and well-being of others in the camp. Those running a temperature of 100.4-plus degrees cannot attend. There will also be staggered curbside check-in. Lower ratio camp groups spread throughout the whole facility. Campers will remain in their same groups throughout the week. To learn more about the YMCA Summer Camps or to register, visit www.tampaymca. org/letscamp. Morning Glory Preschool Offers Weekly Field Trips & More From arts and crafts to friendship parties and academic summer fun, Morning Glory Preschool offers summer fun
for your elementary school-aged child. Safety measures include masks at all times apart from dining, handwashing, temperature checks and complete daily sanitization of the building. Children at the camp will enjoy music, sports and games, outdoor water play and pizza parties. The preschool is located at 6001 Christy Ln., off Bloomingdale Ave. near U.S. 301. To learn more call 628-0541 or visit www. MorningGloryPreschool.com. Camp Osprey Features Safe Adventures An all-inclusive overnight adventure camp, with day camper options, Camp Osprey is opening again this summer with a safe way to keep your kids, ages 7-15, entertained and happy. The camp, which offers activities such as horseback riding, paintball, high ropes, canoeing, archery, fishing and more, was open last year and is following CDC safety guidelines. Safety measures include temperature checks, handwashing, sanitization, staff serving meals and water bottles getting washed and bleached daily. The camp is located at 18050 U.S. 301 in Wimauma and can be reached at 941-
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928-6860. For more information, visit www. camposprey.com.
Dance, Music And Theater At The Straz With Patel Conservatory
If your camper is interested in the performing arts, check out the weekly camps offered through the Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center. The group offers camps and classes for all ages and skill levels with dance, music and theater options. Masks will be mandatory at the camp and the group will practice social distancing. Regular handwashing is encouraged throughout the day and a hand sanitizer is provided upon entry into the conservatory and located in every classroom. There will be daily temperature checks and a health screening questionnaire required to be complete by all campers and staff, and camp start times are staggered, as is camper drop-off. The Straz Center has received a seal of approval from Tampa General Hospital’s consulting service, TGH Prevention Response Outreach (TPRO), for campus-wide reopening protocols. To learn more, visit www.patelconservatory.org or call 222-1040.
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For ages 8 - 99
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
Weekly Themed Horse Back Riding Camps Hands On Experience & Education
Come learn about: RIDING • GROOMING The Learning Experience Monday - Friday Camps 9 A.Is M. toNow 2 P.M. Enrolling For Summer Fun
With Friday Educational Field Trips!
For safe, summer fun and learning, check out The Learning Experience in FishHawk. Now enrolling for the summer, The Learning Experience is following state regulations for camp size and social distancing based on age groups. All staff members are required to wear masks and parents must also wear them when dropping off and picking up their children. Masks are optional for children 3 and older. Two snacks and one lunch are provided and handwashing stations and sanitizers are available. Daily Sanitation protocols are enforced, including weekly electrostatic spraying. There are also daily temperature checks for both children and staff. The camp is located at 16232 Bayberry Glen Dr. in Lithia. Call 681-5544 for more information.
open to ages 8 to 99, is located only 10 minutes from FishHawk at 4325 E. Keysville Rd. in Lithia. Visit TLCSfarms.com.
A Child’s Haven Offers Fun And Safe Summer Programs With kitchen-prepared meals, weekly themes and a variety of activities, A Child’s Haven in Valrico has a full-time camp for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. The Florida Gold Seal School has a detailed COVID-19 protocol that includes temperature checks twice a day, handwashing for anyone entering the building and mask expectations for children 5 and older and all teach(Deposit required to reserveers your spotand .) parents. The camp building is also completely T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven Offers sanitized every day. Hands-On Fun A Do you have Child’s Haven is locata horse lover at ed at 1520 Brentwood home? If so, check Hills Blvd. in Valrico out T.L.C.’s Gypsy and can be reached at Haven’s summer 684-1622. For more camps. Running information, visit www. weekly from late AChildsHavenSchool. May until early com. August, the camp offers small groups the opportunity to learn about horses in an Impact Taekwondo Center Ofoutdoor, socially distanced setting. Facilifers Learning And Fun ties are cleaned regularly and groups are Students can learn important life skills no larger than 10. while having fun and staying safe this Masks are not required because campsummer at Impact Taekwondo Center. ers are outside only. The camp, which is
May 31st - August 2nd We are just ten minutes east of FishHawk!
4325 Keysvil e Rd., Lithia Call Tammi at 813.842.4236 or email TLCS2867@aol.com VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:
TLCSFARMS.COM
Located in Riverview on Boyette Rd., the center is offering a camp that will teach self-defense, Taekwondo skills, field trips and the opportunity to make new friends. Masks will be worn in classrooms and where a six-foot physical distance can not be maintained. There will be sanitizer in each classroom and hands will be washed or sanitized after each activity and before lunch and snacks. There will also be temperature checks at drop-off and after lunch. Call 952-8053 or visit www. impacttkdriverview.com. Dancing For Donations Teaches All Abilities Are you looking for a summer experience like no other? Dancing for Donations offers classes and activities that are all-inclusive, serving kids of all abilities. Children with special needs are not separated from their peers, but instead accommodated in any way they may need (noise-canceling headphones, social stories, buddy, assistance with class/camps activities). It also welcomes therapists to join in. In addition to accommodating students where
they are at, the classes teach all children to be accepting of one another and embrace differences. The hope is to help grow confidence, friendships, acceptance and understanding through dance and other inclusive activities. To learn more, visit dancing4donations. org or call 601-3009. Sports And More At The MAC Gym The MAC Gym in Brandon is offering basketball, volleyball and soccer camps in June and July. The camps are open for 7 to 14-year-olds, varying by camp. The camps run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon, with breaks for snack and water available. The MAC Gym has worked hard to stay COVID-free and has made precautions to keep its members safe. Again this year, its camps will be modified to help implement physical distancing as much as possible. In addition, temperatures will be checked daily. To learn more or to get the registration form, visit https:// themacgym. o rg /s u m mer-sportscamps/. The MAC Gym is located at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon and can be reached at 315-3280.
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
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CEDARKIRK CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF FAITH BUILDING & FUN
By Taylor Wells
Founded in the summer 12th grade, families of 1971, Cedarkirk, a local and adults with intelyear-round Presbyterian lectual and developcamp and conference cenmental disabilities. The ter, is celebrating its 50th programs have a varianniversary. It is a place ety of activities, which apart where individuals and can include Bible study, groups can experience spiriworshiping together, tual growth and renewal as leadership training, well as faith-building fun, kayaking, campfires, worship and exciting activarts and crafts, field ities in 170 acres of woodgames, swimming, arlands, wetlands and uplands. chery and more. “We see our mission as A father and daughter get geared up for Shick said that, as a a trip down the zip line. giving people a place where former camper of Cethey can step out of the busyness and stress darkirk, “I learned my faith at church, but I and the routines of their everyday life and learned to live it at Cedarkirk, and so I think, spend some time in the woods building com- for me, one of the most special things [about munity and drawing close to God,” said Mat- Cedarkirk] is finding out how to put into thew Shick, executive director of Cedarkirk. practice what it is that we believe.” According to its website, “Our facilities He also thinks the camp is special because, are used for retreats, meetings, conferences, as a camper, he lived alongside others from leadership training, camping, outdoor ex- an entirely different socioeconomic bracket, periences and more. We serve a variety of letting him understand the differences in church-related groups, family reunions, pub- their lives, but also find many commonalities lic and private schools, community service and connect with them. agencies and nonprofit organizations.” For the future, Cedarkirk is campaigning Cedarkirk is open, but only for small to raise $4 million for a new office wing, groups, and it is requiring social distancing new residential building and new dining hall, and masks when in groups, among other which will have more space and better acsafety procedures. Cedarkirk could not offer cessibility. summer camp in 2020, but it is glad to welCedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman come guests back this year, though at 50 Dr. in Lithia on the Alafia River. Call 685percent capacity. 4224 or visit https://cedarkirk.org/, www. Cedarkirk has several camp programs for facebook.com/cedarkirk/ or www.instadifferent groups, including those in first to gram.com/cedarkirk/.
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
ARTISTS RETURN HOME TO CENTER PLACE
By Libby Hopkins
Former Center Place artists Greg Manley, Judy Johnson, Ron Grote, Meletha Everett and Doreen Donovan, haven’t taught classes at Center Place for more than a year or two. They are all thrilled that they can again teach art at Center Place. Classes resumed on April 5 this year.
When the new and former artists of Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association came together for a meeting on March 12 of this year to discuss new spring programming at the center, there was one statement that was said over and over again: “I feel like I’ve come home.” Many of the former artists, such as Greg Manley, Doreen Donovan, Judy Johnson, Ron Grote and Meletha Everett, haven’t taught classes at Center Place for more than a year or two. “I’m just happy to be back at Center Place,” Manley said. “It’s been a part of me for so long and I’m thrilled to be back because our community needs a place to do art. Especially with what everyone has been through with the pandemic.”
Manley will be offering three adult painting classes on Monday. They are Contemporary Acrylic Painting, Mixed Media 2-Dimensional Art and an Art Therapy class. Donovan is thrilled to be teaching her Pixie Painters and Jump Start to Art children’s classes at Center Place on Tuesday afternoons. “I am so excited to be back and to see the kids taking art classes again at Center Place,” Donovan said. “I’m also thrilled that the Brandon League of Fine Arts can call Center Place their home again. I know the league is excited about
having their programming back at the center as well.” Johnson and Everett are two of the original art instructors from when Center Place first opened. “I was one of the first few teachers here at Center Place,” Everett said. “I have seen the center go through many transformations and I’m happy that it will continue to be a part of the community.” Everett will again be teaching her adult Watercolors class on Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Johnson will be teaching her adult Oil Painting class on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon. “I’m
just happy to be teaching again,” Johnson said. “I can’t wait to see my former students, and hopefully some new ones too.” Grote is looking forward to returning to teaching his Graphite Drawing and Colored Pencil Drawing classes for teens and adults on Tuesdays. “I’m happy that the center will still be a part of the community,” Grote said. “I’m also happy to be doing art again at Center Place.” All of the classes offered at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association cost $45 for four sessions. If you are interested in taking any of the art classes mentioned, please call Center Place at 685-8888 to register for a class.
May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
KLEANAWAY CARPET AND TILE CLEANING HELPS MAINTAIN FLOORING By Michelle Caceres
PROJECT ROLE MODEL RETURNS TO CENTER PLACE FINE ARTS & CIVIC ASSOCIATION By Libby Hopkins Charm, etiquette the qualities to help and self-developthem succeed in life.” ment are qualities Linda has been that are near and teaching etiquette, dear to Linda Hernself-development, don-Goldstein or charm and modeling ‘Miss Linda,’ as she for more than 30 years. is known at Center She is a fifth-generaPlace. Linda has tion Brandon resident been teaching her who owned and opProject Role Model erated her own busiclass for 17 years ness called Glamour at Center Place. Connection. “I was an With the recent instructor and motivapandemic and the tor at Barbizon School near-closing of the of Modeling and won beloved Brandon teacher of the year community center, there,” Linda said. “I Project Role Model believe the way you had to be put on Linda Herndon-Goldstein has been teaching present yourself to the hold for a while. “I etiquette, self-development, charm and mod- world is the way the eling for more than 30 years. am so thrilled to world responds to you, be back home at and that must be in a Center Place,” Linda said. “While Center positive, self-confident manner. Place was closed, former students and Linda’s platform and goal for Project parents were reaching out to me to see Role Model is to help young girls become when I would be teaching this program role models who grow up to inspire othagain at Center Place.” er young girls. “My goal in teaching this Project Role Model session one begins program is to improve, educate and creon Wednesday, May 5. The six-week pro- ate role models for future generations gram for girls ages 8-14 will meet on who believe, achieve and succeed. I want Wednesdays at Center Place from 6-8 girls to come share the opportunity to p.m. The program ends on June 9 with a reach for the stars and become one.” graduation and fashion show ceremony If you would like to register your at the center. The cost for the program daughter for Project Role Model session is $60. “I love teaching this program one, please call Center Place Fine Arts & because it builds self-esteem, self-con- Civic Association at 685-8888. Linda is fidence, manners and gives our young currently working on dates for Project girls a positive attitude,” Linda said. “I Role Model session two and a Project feel that girls nowadays need to learn Role Model for boys as well.
www.krkvalrico.com
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Keeping carEven though pets looking he prides himtheir best is no self on his effisimple task. Carciency, Mercupets and general rio said there upholstery are are no shortdust magnets. cuts to cleanEven when suring. “Quality faces may not shows, and if even appear our customers that dirty, that weren’t satisplush pile is a fied with the hiding spot for end result, we bugs, mold, skin wouldn’t have flakes, pollen, Kleanaway Carpet and Tile Cleaning helps keep your car- been in busipeting contaminant-free. pet urine, dirt and ness as long as germs. we have,” he said. While do-it-yourself carpet cleaning maHis steam cleaning process is a safe and chines are available, there’s no substitute sanitary way to clean carpeting. It reaches for an expert and thorough carpet cleaning down to the lowest layer, or ‘pile,’ of carpetjob. ing and removes those nasty contaminants. With Kleanaway Carpet and Tile CleanThe Riverview-based cleaning company, ing, its three-step cleaning process, which in addition to specializing in residential and includes a pretreatment for heavily soiled commercial carpet cleaning, also offers tile areas and steam cleaning with a state-of- and grout cleaning. “No matter what kind the-art, truck-mounted unit, reaches deep of tile you have installed, we will be able into the fibers of carpet to lift and dissolve to clean it,” he said. “We have experience stains. cleaning glass, ceramic, porcelain, granite, “With just a little bit of time we can natural stone and travertine tiling.” drastically improve the appearance of your Mercurio said he wants his customers to interior spaces,” said Owner Russell Mercu- remain confident in the services he provides rio. “We pride ourselves on being thorough as he helps them create clean environments yet efficient, two key elements that area for themselves and their loved ones. “We required for a satisfying customer experi- want to help our customers stay healthy ence.” and having disinfected carpeting is a step in When Rod Steele needed his carpet the right direction,” he said. cleaned quickly, he turned to Kleanaway. For more information about Kleanaway “They came out the very next morning and Carpet and Tile Cleaning or to schedule an took care of my carpet,” he said. “It looks appointment, call 992-5248 or visit www. absolutely amazing and didn’t take long at cartpetcleaningintampafl.com. all.”
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Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JENNIFER WAINMAN & JESUIT BASEBALL
FISHHAWK LITTLE LEAGUE TEAMMATES CONTINUE SUCCESS WITH STANDOUT PERFORMANCES AT SALADINO TOURNAMENT Former FishHawk Little League baseball Now the goal is to win the third one.” teammates and friends Drake Harman, Ed Diaz, who coached all three players Evan Wainman and Kris Sosnowski are all on and off from 8U though 10U and allmaking an impact at the high school levstars, said that he still follows his former el for different teams. Harman and Sosplayers’ baseball careers and is not surnowski were named to the Saladino 2021 prised by their collective success. All-Tournament Team and Wainman earned “All three of the players are extremely the Frank Permuy Best Hitter Award. coachable and continue to play with the Former Wolves travel coach Kevin same excitement they had when they Suba coached them for three years, from were 10,” said Diaz. “It’s great to see all 9U-11U. He remembers going to Cherry’s on three of these FishHawk players playthe weekends or after a game to celebrate ing at the high level representing their and eat dinner. He recalls the boys being inschools in a very big tournament like the separable, always hanging out and playing Tony Saladino Tournament. I am very together in the arcade room. proud of them.” “I’m extremely proud of these kids and Diaz’s fondest memory of coaching the what they have accomplished,” said Suba. boys was when they were In the final “It’s awesome that these guys are grown game of districts and the opposing team The boys were on the same 9U FishHawk All-Star team together. up and having success, and I had a hit a walk-off home run and the small part in that.” hitter missed touching second The trio grew up playing togethand third base. The field umpire er at the FishHawk baseball fields, noticed, giving them a second attending Bevis Elementary School chance. Wainman took advantogether. A fork in the road formed tage, hitting a three-run home when it was time for them to atrun to win the game. tend high school, leading them to “When I read who made separate paths. the team and saw some familHarman, now a junior at iar names on there, it brought Bloomingdale, is an outfielder for back memories from when we the Bulls and is currently hitting were playing on the same rec.421 with 24 hits and 10 RBIs reation and all-star teams,” said at the top of the lineup. He went Harman. “I don’t talk to either 8-for-14 in the Saladino Tournaof them regularly, but I like ment with five RBIs and a home playing against them when our run, earning him All-Tournament teams meet.” honors. Even though the former “Honestly, it’s a big thing to me,” teammates don’t speak regularsaid Harman. “I’ve been working ly, they will always remember Evan Wainman gets ready to throw a pitch. Wainman really hard every day to become went 10-for-14 with two home runs and eight RBIs in the Kris Sosnowski threw eight innings, giving up zero earned runs their time together when they Saladino Tournament the best player I can be and the while striking out seven, earning him All-Tournament honors. were kids. runs and eight RBIs in the tournament. best teammate I can be, on and “I have so many fond mem“It means a lot to make the All-Saladino “I was very honored to find out that I off the field. When I saw I made the team, ories of playing with Drake and Kris, inTournament team,” said Sosnowski. “There I felt like all my hard work was beginning was awarded the Frank Permuy Best Hitter are plenty of great pitchers around the cluding 8U All-Stars, 9U All-Stars and 10U to pay off. Being that I am uncommitted, I Award,” said Wainman. “I have been work- area, and I am glad that I was considered Wolves,” said Wainman. “We always played have a regimen of working out every morn- ing hard and really focusing on hitting this one of them in the tournament. Winning hard but had a good time. Both Drake and ing and going up to the field to get early last year. I’m happy the work is paying off.” the tournament was a huge accomplish- Kris are great all-around players. Chris Jesuit Tiger and UCF commit Sosnowski work in.” ment for our team. At the beginning of the dominates on the mound and Drake can Junior Newsome Wolves player Wain- played a key role in his team winning the fall, our goal this year was to win three do everything. It has been a great season man has been a standout at the plate, hit- Saladino Tournament this spring break. The rings. First the Steinbrenner Tournament, for all of us, and to think it all started at ting .455 with four home runs and 18 RBIs. reliever threw eight innings, giving up zero then the Saladino Tournament, and, most the FishHawk Little League fields is pretty The 2021 Frank Permuy Best Hitter Award earned runs while striking out seven, earn- importantly, a state championship ring. amazing.” recipient went 10-for-14 with two home ing him All-Tournament honors.
EXPIRES: 5/30/2021
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May 2021
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Page 51
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE NEWSOME HIGH SCHOOL COLOR GUARD
NEWSOME WINTER GUARD CLAIMS FIRST PLACE AT FFCC STATE The Newsome High has made me really School varsity winter guard proud.” had an outstanding showBefore the team ing in Dayton Beach from went to states, the March 27-28 at the Florida Newsome student Federation of Colorguards body and staff enCircuit (FFCC) State Chamcouraged and celpionships, claiming first ebrated them with place with an overall score a clap-out to wish of 91.37 while going undethem luck. The enfeated on the season. tire school came out Senior captain Remi into the courtyard Nowland was very proud and along the railings They competed against 19 teams from across of her team and was overon the second story the state. whelmed with emotion and cheered for the to commemorate after finding out that they kids as they walked the moment,” said through the school with the drumline playThe team was led by 11 seniors. won the contest. Thompson. “We ing in the background. “It was amazing, I was ping off a perThe team won all seven competitions it comwere placed at the top of the stair to be crying tears of joy,” said fect season in Reed is very appreciative of his dedicatpeted in this season. photographed, and looking down from the Nowland. “All the hard which they won ed volunteer color guard staff that puts work we put in paid off when we took our first place at every competition they par- top, I could see the smiles of all our par- in endless hours of time to help make the ents and how proud they were of us.” last steps onto the floor.” ticipated in. students successful, as well as the NewReed said that his team faced many some administration for its support of the Third-year Newsome High School Band Senior captain Yasmin Thompson, who Director Mitchell Reed, who directs the was on varsity color guard for all four challenges this season with COVID-19, in- program. Color Guard Director Jamie Escolor guard, said that the team not only years, will always remember celebrating cluding a late start and scheduling chang- cobar-Dyer, who is a Hillsborough County had its own personal highest score in all with her team, soaking up the moment es, as well as having kids quarantined at elementary school teacher, is a color guard seven competitions it competed in this with her coaches and the color guard par- different parts of the season, throughout specialist who helps out with every pracseason, it was also the highest score of ents after the competition, especially be- their run. tice. “They were able to overcome and rethe whole season in the entire A-class. The cause they were not able to participate in “The administration here is just so supteam, which was led by 11 seniors, won de- last year’s FFCC State Championships due ally performed the best they’ve done the portive with what we are doing and it last couple of years,” said Reed. “Just really, honestly wouldn’t be possible if we cisively by almost a four-point margin at to COVID-19. states against a total of 19 schools, cap“After we won, we went to take pictures seeing them fight through that adversity didn’t have their support,” said Reed.
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Top Producer 2002 - 2020
Bloomingdale/FishHawk Edition
Volume 20, Issue 5