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April 2019 Volume 17, Issue 4 Ph: 657-2418 C E L E B R A T I N G
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C O M M U N I T Y
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Tony And Lauren Dungy Visit New Goodwill Superstore Brings Jobs Summerfield As Part Of Reading Initiative And Opens At Big Bend Plaza By Jennifer Fleming
Goodwill Industries-Suncoast, Inc recently opened its new superstore at 10739 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview in early April. Goodwill Industries-Suncoast is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to help people achieve their full potential through the dignity and power of work. Like Goodwill’s other clean, wellorganized stores, the newest Goodwill is sure to appeal to a wide cross-section of value-conscious shoppers. The 27,700 sq.ft. store will be stocked with gently used clothing, furniture and household items as well as a wide variety of brandnew products. The store will employ 32 people. There is a convenient drive-up donation lane at the store that will give area residents a place to easily drop off items they no longer need, contributing to a greener community while supporting Goodwill-Suncoast’s services to people in the local community. Kenneth Karbowski, retail regional manager for Goodwill IndustriesSuncoast said, “We’re super excited to welcome the Riverview community to our newest superstore. Goodwill prides itself on providing a great shopping and donating experience, from our drive-through donation lane to our huge selection of
clothing and household goods. Since Goodwill is all about value shopping,” he also added, “Goodwill has something for everyone in the family, in a bright and clean environment. Community donations also help fund our innovative, in-store Job Connection Center, which provides an array of free job seeking services for everyone.” The Big Bend store will also house a Goodwill Job Connection Center, a place where people can job search in a supportive environment, entirely free of charge. The Center will offer career planning and exploration and assist job seekers to identify paths to careers of interest. The Job Connection Center is scheduled to open this summer. Meanwhile, workshops on topics such as resume development, interview skills and basic computer skills will be offered at the Big Bend store. For information about Job Connection services, call 727-321-7337 or email JobConnection@goodwill-suncoast.com. The organization's successful donated goods retail operation helps support its human services in 10 counties in West Central Florida, including employment services, training and job placement for people with disabilities, a children’s literacy program, affordable apartment communities for seniors and people with disabilities and community corrections programs. Goodwill has other locations in the SouthShore area, including one located at 3050 E. College Ave. in Ruskin and another at 1407 US-301 in Tampa. For more information, visit www.goodwill-suncoast.org.
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tions. “I was shy at first and then I started feeling better when he started talking to me,” said fifth grade greeter and escort, Vartiece Hamilton. “I've never been next to an actual NFL Coach - this was my first time. I also thought it was really cool how he puts every single one Photo courtesy of Summerfield Elementary of his kids (10 Each second-grade student received a copy of the book Maria Finds Courage. kids) in his Former Buccaneer Head Coach and books." NFL Hall of Famer Tony Dungy and his “I was so wife, Lauren, recently visited excited when I first Summerfield Elementary. The visit was a met them,” said part of their charity, the Dungy Family second grader Foundation. The couple has co-authored Tatianna Carrillo. “I loved the picture takabout 10 books for young children ages ing the most because it was all of us 6 to 9 about character-building through together, like a family.” the familiar world of sports. They have The school is optimistic that the traveled to several Title I schools to read Dungys will visit the school again next and visit with the children. This was their year. For more information, visit the webfirst visit to Summerfield Elementary in site at TeamDungy.com. Riverview. “This will be a memory that lasts a “It was quite a big deal for us,” said lifetime,” said Beall. “It was such an Kelley Beall, SEL Coach/Behavioral honor to have them come here.” Specialist at Summerfield Elementary. “Even though there were about 140 people in the media center at the time, it was InThis a very intimate environment with Tony Issue and Lauren Dungy being so up close and personal with our kids, walking NEW FLOOD ZONE MAPS ..................PG 3 through the group of kids and answering questions. It was a lot of fun for everyYMCA VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR...PG 11 body.” 9TH ANNUAL CRAWFISH FESTIVAL..PG 17 The Dungys are well-known advocates of supporting young learners and HOMEMAKERS OF HOPE .................PG 21 teaching them life-lessons. They read to EASTER ACTIVITIES...........................PG 25 the 135+ second graders in the media center and gave them each a copy of CHALKLINES....................................PG 40 the book that they read to them called BAHIA BEACH MEMORY .................PG 42 Maria Finds Courage. The book was about a little girl finding the courage to SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 46 try something new. Four fifth graders were also chosen to help escort and READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE greet Coach Dungy and Mrs. Dungy, www.ospreyobserver.com and they were able to ask them ques-
Dot and Aldon George are celebrating their 75th wedding anniversary this year. The couple was married June 12, 1944 after Aldon completed his job in aviation in the Navy. The couple started W.A. George Upholstery Inc. out of their home on Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview and their children continue to run the business today. See full story Page 4.
Serving Our Customers in 4 Locations: Lithia • Big Bend, Riverview • 301, Riverview • Sun City Center
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
April 2019
Page 3
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Guardian ad Litem Urges You To Help Change The Story Ending
By Tabitha Lambert, Guardian ad Litem Circuit Director
The places, faces and some circumstances vary, but so many of the details are the same. This is the beginning of one foster child’s story. By volunteering a few hours a month, you can be part of the ending for another child’s story as a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate. Melissa, the oldest of four children, tell her story this way: “For the first 12 years of my life, I was never allowed to be a child. My mother would trade the government assistance that was intended for our food, diapers, clothing and bills for alcohol and drugs. I resorted to stealing and stashing food stamps, which I would take to a nearby grocery store and ask the clerk to help me maximize the amount of food I could purchase. I was desperate to find help. I approached my dance team coach and confessed the abuse. She was able to convince my mother to let us stay with an aunt and uncle temporarily. Shortly after, we entered the dependency system.” “My siblings and I lived in limbo for five long years, as my aunt and uncle fought to gain permanent custody of us,” she continued. “After at least two reunification plans failed, my mother’s rights were severed and my aunt and uncle adopted us.” Melissa remembers that
one thing truly helped get her through this difficult period: her Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate. “[She] was the only one we could turn to for answers. She tried to comfort us and guide us through the process. She was a constant in our lives and our voice in the courtroom. She showed me that while my childhood may have been taken away, I was in control of what I would do with the rest of my life.” Hillsborough County has more children in the dependency system than any other part of the state. A Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate will get to know a child that has been abused, abandoned or neglected and become a consistent figure for them while they are part of the dependency system. Children with a court-appointed special advocate do better in school, receive more services and are more likely to be adopted than those without. “Just a few hours a month can make a lifetime of difference for a child,” said Guardian ad Litem 13th Circuit Director Tabitha Lambert. “These children need to know a consistent, caring adult is there for them. No child should have to navigate a complicated system alone. A Volunteer Child Advocate can be the champion a child needs and can help change a child’s future.” Information sessions are held weekly in various locations. To find dates and times and learn more about the Guardian ad Litem program of Hillsborough County, visit www.galtampa.org or 272-5110.
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County Explains New Flood Zone Maps
By Kate Quesada
Residents and specific areas.” business owners near According to Wilkerson, SouthShore’s coastal the revisions in the maps will areas should take note. not only help residents and The Federal business owners make deciEmergency sions about protecting their Management Agency property, but will also allow (FEMA) and community planners, local Hillsborough County officials, engineers, builders are in the process of and others to make imporreleasing new flood tant determinations about Hillsborough County and maps, which will where and how new strucFEMA are in the process of change the area’s releasing new flood maps for tures and developments insurance and building should be built. the coastal areas of Hillsborough County. requirements. Residents who attended Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) the meetings were able to discuss the show the potential extent and risks of potential impacts of the map changes. flooding in an effort to alert residents of Experts from FEMA and Hillsborough possible hazards, in addition to changing County were on hand to help property the regulation requirements. States and owners discuss insurance options and communities can also use the information answer specific questions about the for emergency management. impact of the changes on their homes or According to County Senior Media businesses as well as explain how the Relations Strategist Chris Wilkerson, maps were determined. approximately 37,000 homes in According to FEMA’s Danon Lucas, Hillsborough County will be affected by following the community meetings and the changes. These residents will all open houses where residents are able to receive letters from the county explaining view the new maps, there is a 90-day the differences. appeal and comment period. The new maps, which were present“To support and appeal, the commued to the public at meetings earlier this nity or individual must submit scientific or month, were updated recently for the first technical data that proves the flood haztime in 30 years using technology and ard information is shown in error,” said improved data that was unavailable previ- Lucas. ously. FEMA has made the map changes “Technology has advanced signifiavailable to residents at cantly over the last 30 years and we now https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Hillsborough have a much better idea of where the County flood maps are also available at water will go,” said Wilkerson, who www.HCFLGov.net/FloodMaps. Property explained that experts have been working owners looking for more information on the updates since 2013. “The revised should call 635-5400 or visit maps better reflect the risks of building in www.FloodSmart.gov.
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Page 4
Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Waterset Turkey Trot Raised More Than $22,000 For Area Schools, Local Running Club By Candace Rotolo
Three “It’s beneficial SouthShore pubto us because the lic schools and a staff feels appreciatlocal running ed and supported club will share by the community proceeds from and it provides the the third annual little extras that Turkey Trot at improve the high Waterset by school experience,” Beneficiaries of the 2018 Waterset Turkey Newland. East Bay High Trot celebrate receiving more than $22,000, Waterset reprePrincipal Maria which was raised at the master-planned community’s annual Thanksgiving Day 5K sentatives handGsell said of the road race. ed out the donadonation. “I think it tions at a recent lunch at The Landing, also means a lot for the Waterset comthe master-planned community’s café. munity to see the fruits of their annual Lynda McMorrow, marketing managrace.” er at Waterset, presented checks “We’re so pleased with the ongoing for $7,026.92 to the principals of East Bay success of the Turkey Trot,” added Lynda High School, Eisenhower Middle School McMorrow. “The event gets better and and Doby Elementary School. The better each year. It’s an outstanding FishHawk Road Runners, which assisted example of not only Waterset’s dedication in organizing the race, received a $1,000 to supporting our schools, but it also donation for the club’s annual scholarship shows the commitment our entire Apollo fund. Beach community has in making an The Turkey Trot netted $22,580, impact for our students. We know the raised through entry fees and donations principals and staff will make good use of from local businesses. More than 850 the funds they receive.” runners and walkers from both the In addition to funds raised through Waterset community and the surrounding the Turkey Trot, Waterset donates several area took part in the annual Thanksgiving iPads each quarter to deserving students Day 5K race, which also featured a oneat Eisenhower Middle and East Bay High mile and half-mile Kids Fun Run. School students and sponsors other The principals have discretion to use school events throughout the year. the funds as they wish. At East Bay High Newland Real Estate Group, LLC School, part of the donation will be used (Newland) is the master developer of the for student scholarships. Additional school community. Waterset is one of more than uses may include updating audio equip30 communities the NORTH AMERICA ment, beautifying the campus or purchas- SEKISUI HOUSE, LLC - Newland parting technology items such as computers nership has developed together in 12 and tablets. states across the United States.
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Local Couple Celebrates 75th Anniversary When Dorothy (Dot) and Aldon George married in 1944, southeastern Hillsborough County was a very different place. The couple, who met on a bus Dot and Aldon George are celebrating their Aldon drove 75th wedding in Brandon anniversary this year. when Dot was 16, are celebrating their 75th wedding anniversary in June and have lived, started a successful business and raised their family in the area in that time. “The Brandon area has changed so much,” said Dot. “We almost get lost when we go out now even though we have lived here our whole lives.” At 91 and 92 years old, Dot and Aldon have three children, two daughters and a son-two of whom live in the Brandon area-nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. They met as teenagers when Aldon was working as a bus driver in rural Hillsborough County, picking up workers for the Herman Sausage Plant, which was located on the land that now houses Brandon Ford. “We always had a lot in common,” said Dot. “Including the fact that we are both twins.” In 1944, George came home from his job in aviation for the Navy and the
By Kate Quesada
couple married in a small family ceremony at the Hillsborough County Court House in Tampa. “We ran out of gas on the way home on our wedding day,” said Aldon. “That is a funny story to look back on now.” After the war, the couple started W.A. George Upholstery Inc. out of their home on Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. Two of their children now work at the business, which offers custom upholstery services for residential and commercial furniture. During their years in Brandon, Dot and Aldon were very active , even working as greeters there for 25 years. Aldon also fondly remembers his time as a scout leader and especially enjoyed taking trips with his troop. “We really had a lot of fun,” he said. When asked to what she credits the length and success of their marriage, Dot mentions their faith in God and their willingness to compromise. “We always got along,” she said. “We don’t think alike every time, but we do what we can to agree with each other.” W.A. George Upholstery, located at 10416 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview, can be reached at 626-4980 or info@georgeup.com. For more information, visit www.georgeup.com.
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April 2019
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pets
Saturday, April 6; 2-3 p.m. Kim’s Natural Foods – 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.
Dancing With A Balance
Every Tuesday; 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement & Rehab Community. 101 Trinity Lakes Dr., Sun City Center Do you like to dance but are worried about falling? Join this free line dancing class led by trained therapists. Boot scoot and boogie safely together and make exercise fun. RSVP 634-3347.
East Hillsborough Democratic Club
Tuesday, April 9; 6 p.m. Meet & Greet; 6:30 p.m. O 'Brien's Irish Pub & Grill; 701 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon. The speaker for April is Bradley Van Waus from Nurses United/Medicare for All. Visit www.easthillsboroughdems.org.
Gardening Classes At Kerby’s Nursery And Landscaping
2311 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner Saturday, April 27; 10 a.m. - Growing Fruit Trees Learn how to plant, water, prune and fertilize fruit trees to get great harvests in any space.
Plants, Pollinators And Professionals - Making Gardening Great
Saturday, May 18; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 5339 CR 579, Seffner The cost is $10 and includes a gift bag containing a gardening book, rain gauge, hose nozzle, water bottle and free soil test, one per household. Plant, recycled yard art and other vendors will be on-site. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions. Pre-registration required. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-florida-friendlylandscaping-101-plants-pollinators-and-professionals-tickets-54994188097.
Congregation Beth Shalom
Shabbat Services – Fridays; 7:30 p.m. at 706 Bryan Rd., Brandon Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. All welcome. Call 681-6547.
Master Gardener Plant Clinics
Riverview Library, 10509 Riverview Dr. Tuesday, May 7; 6:30 p.m. – Open Forum with Master Gardeners A panel of Master Gardeners will be available to answer your landscape questions. Class participants encouraged to bring samples and questions for group discussion. Call 273-3652 for more information.
Life Challenges Support Group
Every Tuesday; 1-3 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement & Rehab Community 101 Trinity Lakes Dr., Sun City Center Rid yourself of depression, anxiety and frustrations with family, children, friends, life changes, health problems, finances and more. All welcome in complete confidence and free of charge. No appointment is necessary.
VFW Riverview Post 8108 Events
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7504 Riverview Dr.; 671-9845 Every Sunday; 9 a.m.-12 Noon - All You Can Eat Breakfast Every Monday; 7 p.m. – Bingo Night
Master Gardener Library Program: Right Plant In The Right Place
Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico Wednesday, May 1 – Edible Flowers Try something different. Plant an edible garden. Learn what types of flowers are edible for cooking. Presentation by Master Gardeners Richard Seedroff and Barbara Glotzback. Bring plant or other gardening item for fun Plant Swap. Email Richard@seedroff.com or call 303-638-3917 for more info.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
WUSF Announces Collaboration With StoryCorps ‘One Small Step’ Initiative WUSF is excited to be one of just six public media stations selected nationwide to participate in a new StoryCorps initiative designed to reclaim America’s civil discourse. One Small Step aims to break down boundaries created by politics and remind us of our shared humanity. Funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and StoryCorps, One Small Step brings two people together who have differing political perspectives and asks them questions that reach the core of their beliefs and the emotional experiences that brought them there. The purpose of these interviews is to provide an opportunity for people to share personal feelings and experiences and to enable those who disagree to listen to each other with respect. Rather than spark additional political debates, One Small Step encourages answers to questions like, “Was there a moment, event or person in your life that shaped your political views?” and “What scares you most when you think about the future?” These kinds of questions help people discover the root of their own political stances on various issues. The format allows participants and listeners who may disagree on policies to understand better why others may feel differently. There is no blame and no right answer, only lived
By Faithe Estes
experiences that participants can share with one another. StoryCorps Founder Dave Isay explains the importance of One Small Step, “Our nation is divided. Much of what is driving that division is fear and a lack of understanding and empathy for those with whom we don’t agree. We hope that One Small Step will provide a beacon of hope during these difficult and divided days.” To date, StoryCorps has collected interviews with over 500,000 Americans. These conversations are then preserved for posterity at the Library of Congress, which is where the One Small Step stories will also be stored. “Our station is honored to be a part of this very special and important initiative,” shared WUSF General Manager and Associate Vice President JoAnn Urofsky. WUSF is eager to hear from voices in the Tampa Bay and hopes to obtain a diverse selection of participants for One Small Step. All backgrounds and opinions are welcomed and encouraged. There is no cost to participate. Interviews are currently being collected and will continue to collect them until it has 25 (by May or June). If interested in participating, please visit www.wusf.usf.edu and click on the ‘One Small Step’ tile for more information.
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Preview Incoming Mail With The Informed Delivery® Feature
By Taylor Wells
Do you ever find on which they opt-in yourself waiting for for. Package tracking specific letters or information on Priority packages to arrive? Mail® Priority Mail Want to make sure Express®, and other mail that should be trackable parcels are arriving makes the included. journey home and has Some other types not been stolen or of mail, such as maggone missing, or just azine and catalogues, want to keep track of also cannot be digitalyour mail deliveries? ly imaged and so they Informed Delivery is a handy feature will not be seen in Then the United that lets you view incoming mail States Postal Service Informer Delivery whenever and wherever you are (USPS) has a new notifications. If these through various devices. feature that can prove items are scanned, a a great help. message in notifications will inform Informed Delivery® is a free feature users that they are being delivered. that is perfect for previewing incoming This useful feature has already mail whenever and wherever you are gained many users, currently numbering through your computer, tablet or mobile over 15 million, and almost 160 thoudevices like phones. The feature boasts sand users are added each week. security and privacy, the ability to leave Informed Delivery works for mail delivery instructions and schedule redeliv- sent to either homes or PO boxes, but ery, package tracking and allowing users those who have and wish to see mail for to view delivery statuses via emails, texts both must create separate personal or their Informed Delivery dashboards. accounts for each address. Updates on deliveries will come once a To use the feature, read, print or day, typically before 9 a.m. local time. download the How to Sign Up for The feature works by having the Informed Delivery step-by-step guide at fronts of letter-sized mail digitally imaged https://usps.force.com/faq/servlet/fileFiel so users can see pictures of what is com- d?entityId=ka3t0000000CfgOAAS&field ing. Up to 10 of these images can be =Related_Information__Body__s. seen, and the remaining mail images can To learn more about Informed be viewed on users’ dashboards. Delivery, visit However, images of packages are https://informeddelivery.usps.com/box/p not made, so Informed Delivery users are ages/intro/start.action, and for more updated on package information through detailed information and questions, status updates via their dashboard, check the FAQs page linked in the URL emails and/or text messages, depending above.
April 2019
Page 7
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
First Free Women's Rehabilitation Program Opens In Tampa Bay Area
By Richard Hodder
The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Hillsborough County has opened its new women's program. Since 1950, the ARC has been providing a six to 12 month residential program to men who want to A rendering of the building that houses the new Salvation Army solve their alcohol women’s rehabilitation program in Tampa. and drug prob“Since December of last year, the lems. Now, with the construction of a ARC is able to help women in their separate residence, the ARC offers own safe environment. Just like the its 12-step, faith-based, long-term rest of our country, Tampa Bay is rehabilitation program to women. having to find solutions to the opioid The rehabilitation program is crisis and sex trafficking. Now The funded completely by the unwanted Salvation Army can provide hope to items people donate to get recycled women in our community who want in The Salvation Army Family Stores. to conquer these terrifying problems,” The ARC residents do not have any said Administrator Major John Reed. out-of-pocket costs or need any To support this much needed health insurance coverage. community service, people can The women's residence contains ten bedrooms; each bedroom houses schedule a free truck pickup of their three women. The facility includes an unwanted items by calling 1-800-SATRUCK or visiting SATRUCK.ORG. intake office, library/two classrooms, To get involved with the new offices/conference room, kitchen, dinwomen’s program, ing room, great room, recreation contact katherine.reed@uss.salvaroom, fitness room, laundry/hair cuttionarmy.org or 972-0471 ext. 59170. ting station, and two resident manThe ARC is looking for women sponagers’ bedrooms. The ARC also has sors, a women’s committee dealing a new chapel, seating 250 persons with recovery, and a special projects for both the men and women beneficiaries, and their families and friends. committee.
Stop In & See What’s New for Spring!
MONOGRAMMING AND SO MUCH MORE!
Your Questions Answered About Local Weather Patterns
By Granville Kinsman
Q: Is there a rainy season and dry season in central Florida?
A: Yes, rainfall is seasonal. Our rainy season is a four-month period from June through September, with average rainfall of about 7.8 inches each month. About 60 percent of our average annual Granville Kinsman, Hydrologic Data rainfall is received Manager, Southwest Florida Water during that time. Management District, is a professional The higher rainfall geologist and has been manager of the Hydrologic Data Section for 30 years. He results in rising is a subject matter expert for hydrologic water levels in conditions monitoring and reporting, and wells, lakes, rivers coordinates and manages the District’s data collection programs with the United and springs. Our States Geological Survey (USGS).
average of 53 inches. December was the third wettest in 103 years of record! Districtwide, rainfall was about 7.5 inches higher than average.
Q: What is the role of El Niño in our weather?
A: El Niño is a weather pattern related to the warming of waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean and it has global impacts on weather. In Florida, El Niño normally results in a wetter-than-normal winter and spring. That means during El Niño episodes, our water resources typically increase.
Q: Are the regional water resources healthy?
A: Yes. The aboveaverage rainfall in 2018 follows strong rainfall events over the past two years that have elevated groundwater and surface water levels throughout our District. Water This past winter, El Niño developed and influenced the weather resources are across the United States. El Niño is associated with warmer than normal water temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific Ocean. Weak El healthy and public supplies Nino conditions are expected to remain through the spring. are full. dry season is an eight-month period Q: What is the forecast for the next from October through May. During the several months? dry season, our average rainfall is A: The National Oceanic and around 3 inches per month. Water levAtmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) els typically decline in wells, lakes, Climate Prediction Center has been rivers and springs during these eight monitoring a developing El Niño months. event for the past six months. The Q: Was 2018 wetter than normal? waters of the Pacific are warm, but the atmospheric effects have not been A: Yes, 2018 was considered a completely enhanced as wet year in west-central Florida. expected. Current forecasts indicate Rainfall was highest in the northern above-normal rainfall through May, counties and lowest in the southern when we expect to transition to our counties of our District, but all areas rainy season. saw rainfall above the long-term yearly
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Page 8
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Bell Shoals Baptist Church Living Out Its Mission While In Transition
Center Place Will Hold Its 35th Annual Patron Party This April
As Bell Shoals This September Baptist Church from 19-21, Bell Shoals searches for a new will host ‘Welcome senior pastor, the Home Initiative,’ a church continues to three-day conference carry out its mission for veterans suffering to "follow Jesus, love from PTSD. The propeople, and make gram is designed to disciples." This year make veterans feel Bell Shoals has sev‘welcomed home’ in eral significant every sense and conevents on its calensists of talks and dar along with its resources for coping ongoing ministries. and recovery. Further The student ministry at Bell On Friday, April Shoals Baptist Church recently 26 at 6:30 p.m., Bell collected food for its Real Hope Shoals presents House. The pantry distributes food every Wednesday from 12 ‘Come to the Table,’ Noon to 2 p.m. a women’s gathering where 400 women will share a meal, their detail on hearts and experience the love of God. the proThe event will be held on the Brandon gram can Campus and costs $10 per person. be obtained at This May and June will provide www.welcomehomeinitiative.org. opportunities for missional living as Bell On Friday, October 11, ‘The Shoals leaves behind the building and Freedom Tour,’ a women’s event featurengages in the community. Join Bell ing author/speaker Jennie Allen and worShoals on Saturday, May 4 to participate ship leader Christy Nockels will be held in ‘Church has Left the Building,’ and on the Brandon Campus. The gathering’s spend the day doing service projects theme centers on the freedom we have throughout the Greater Brandon area. in Jesus Christ and includes a time of Then over the weekend of June 1 and 2, Bible teaching and praise and worship. Bell Shoals will reach out with acts of In addition to these signature kindness to its neighbors through the events, Bell Shoals is continuing to serve ‘Bless Every Home’ event. its communities in a variety of ways “Some people might just think we’re through its ESL classes, classes to sitting still while waiting for our next senior improve marriages, finances, and parentpastor,” said Gary Payne, executive pasing and our Encouraging Sports protor at Bell Shoals. “Nothing could be furgram. Visit www.bellshoals.com to learn ther from the truth.” more.
Center Place will have generations hold its 35th Annual of families attendPatron Party- Paint ing our art classes The Town-Passport and children’s live To The Arts- on theatre.” Saturday, April 27 All of this beginning at 7 p.m. at would not be posCenter Place in sible without the Brandon. This will be generous support fun evening that supof the comports the arts locally. munity. You Come support Lisa Rodriguez, can help susCenter Place Marketing Manager tain Center and help it confor Center Place said, tinue to provide Place and its program“Each year, the theme arts four decades ming for the community by attending their of our party changes of service to the 35th Annual Patron Party. Your cruise to paradise awaits! to make it a special community by evening for those who support the arts. becoming an Art Patron Member or, even This year, our venue will be transformed better, by becoming a sponsor. into a cruise ship theme (Passport to the Rodriguez explained, “As a Patron Arts). We will stop at different tropical Member or sponsor, you will receive disports, making it A Night In Paradise for counts on art classes and theatre proour guests.” Rodriguez added, “Your itinductions.” erary for the night will include dinner from So, put on your best cruise attire the galley, tropical drinks, entertainment (from shorts and sandals to ball gowns and our spectacular silent auction for and tuxedoes) and enjoy an evening your shopping pleasure. Enjoy a filled with fun. In addition to a delicious Captain’s Dinner with onboard seating for meal, tropical drinks and entertainment, all, complete with open bar, cruisin’ style you can partake in Center Place’s music and entertainment.” famous silent auction. Rodriguez said, This is Center Place’s biggest annual “Our auction committee works yearfundraiser. Center Place has been proround getting wonderful items donated moting and teaching arts in the Greater such as beautiful art, gift baskets, sports Brandon area for 42 years. Rodriguez items and gift cards from restaurants and said, “Our Art Center depends on the other local businesses.” generosity of our community in order to For more information and to get tickkeep our doors open with a variety of art ets to the 35th Annual Patron Party, programs for children and adults. Our 42 please visit years of promoting and teaching the arts www.centerplacebrandon.org/specialin our community speaks for itself. We events.aspx or call 685-8888.
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Page 9
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
HCC Brandon Campus Held Grand Opening For New Hawks Career Closet By Tatiana Ortiz
Landing a job male and female clothinterview, whether it is ing items, accessories the first one or several, and more. Plus, stucan create a positive dents could also impact on someone’s choose from a seleclife as they get an tion of numerous opportunity showcase sizesl. Students get to their skills. Being keep their outfits as equipped with the right well. outfit can increase conHCC student fidence as well. On Quawn Carter shared March 19, the Career her thoughts about the Resource Center at Career Resource Center Manager at Hawks Career Closet. the Hillsborough “I like the diversity the Brandon Hillsborough Community College, Carmen Community College and clothing items, Kimpson (left) and Dean of Student (HCC) Brandon camServices Julie White (right) prepare especially with the varipus held a grand to cut the ribbon of its new Hawks ous sizes that students Closet Resource Center. opening of its New get to choose from,” Hawks Career Closet durCarter said. ing the week of several free Kimpson stated the events that will occur as this overall goal of the campus celebrates 50 Hawks Career Closet years of innovation and would be to provide stuinspiration. dents with business HCC Career Resource attire. In addition, part of Center Manager Carmen this goal includes growth Kimpson mentioned who with hopes that it could can utilize the Hawks expand college wide. Career Closet. The Dale Mabry campus “Both female and male students can in Tampa also has a Hawk’s Career receive, at no cost, interviewing attire as Closet. long as they notify the career resource “All in all I am very excited about center about the interview or networking launching this and would love for people function,” Kimpson said. to donate as we are accepting gently It all came into fruition through a used or brand new suits and business $1,200 grant from the HCC Foundation. attire,” Kimpson said. With this grant, it provided hangers, sizing For info, contact Carmen Kimpson at labels and much more for the Hawks ckimpson@hccfl.edu. Hours are Monday Career Closet. Students visiting it will get 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Tuesday through outfitted as they may discover a variety of Friday 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Call 259-6590.
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Page 10
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Barbara Minster Receives Prestigious Chiles Advocacy Award Barbara Mainster, former Executive Director of Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA), was presented with Florida’s top child advocacy award in Tallahassee on March 25 at Florida State University Center Club during the Children’s Week celebration. The Chiles Advocacy Award, named in honor of former Governor Lawton Chiles and First Lady Rhea Chiles, commemorates dedication to public service and commitment to the children of our State. The award is presented each year to a Floridian whose leadership is recognized for promoting policies and programs that improve the lives of Florida’s children and their families. Mainster grew up modestly on a farm. “My parents…wanted to be independent…raise their own cows. They never made a lot of money on that farm, but the milk they sold put us through college,” she recalled. She studied anthropology at Cornell University, joined the Peace Corps and was stationed in Peru to work in a small preschool. Mainster has been the voice and a force to reckon with for improving the quality of life of Florida’s migrant farmworkers and their families. Joining RCMA in 1972, she was responsible for educating migrant farm women and transforming them into exceptional caregivers. Since then, her advocacy has focused on
By Suzanne Mahoney
issues of living conditions, early childhood development, health care, decent housing, fair treatment of women, the elderly, education and, of course, the children. Her powerful public service efforts of over 40 years drove the organization’s vision and transformed RCMA into Florida’s largest nonprofit child care service and education center for the migrant and rural low-income children. Under her leadership, RCMA has become a national model success story. She delivers a powerful and persuasive message to lawmakers, leaders in corporate agriculture and civic and professional organizations alike. She is known in Washington D.C. and Tallahassee for her moving testimonials before congressional and legislative committees where she championed Migrant Head Start funding. “Barbara has been an inspiring leader,” said Gary Wishnatzki, owner of Wish Farms, a top quality berry producer in Florida and RCMA Board Member. “She has a unique ability to bring together the community she serves with the agricultural industry leaders. Barbara’s ability to forge alliances is one of her greatest assets.” Mainster now serves on Florida's Reading and Literacy Partnership Committee and is a charter board member for the Socially Accountable Farm Employers (SAFE) program. Visit www.rcma.net.
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April 2019
Page 11
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Erika Klinker Lindsey And Maddie Planchet Are Named YMCA Volunteers Of The Year
By Kathy L. Collins
Each year, the contagious, so Tampa making sure we Metropolitan Area give credit to YMCA hosts a those who dediCommunity Impact cate themselves Dinner where volto the Y’s cause unteers from area and mission is YMCAs are recogvery important to nized along with us.” dedicated commuHester said, nity leaders who “The Spurlino have a positive Family Y is open impact on Tampa to all. If a family Bay. or individual is Erika Klinker Lindsey (Top) from the This year, U.S. having financial Spurlino Family Y at Big Bend Road and Representative issues that is preMaddie Planchet (Bottom) from YMCA Kathy Castor Camp Cristina are this year’s Volunteers venting them from of the Year from their respective YMCAs. affording memberreceived the Tampa ship, we can usuMetropolitan ally find a way to YMCA’s 2019 help them through Community Impact our Open Doors Award on March 4. Program.” The Volunteers Planchet has of the Year for been with YMCA 2019 are Erika Camp Cristina for Klinker Lindsey over eight years. from the Spurlino She is a member Family Y at Big of Camp Cristina’s Bend Road and Teen Leader’s Maddie Planchet Club and is a volfrom YMCA Camp unteer in youth Cristina. Lindsey programs. has been with the Y for Meagan Springer, five years. She currently Program Director of serves as the Board Chair Camping Services for for the Spurlino Family Y YMCA Camp Cristina said, Volunteer Advisory Board. “Maddie captures the Jeremy Hester, Center essence of Camp Cristina, Executive Director for the Spurlino with her willing spirit and servant’s Family Y, said, “Erika has dedicated heart. She sets the example and her time and resources to serve the strives to do so every day for her community and the Y. Her family was peers as she stays active in Leader’s involved with the Spurlino Family Y Club and is a part of strengthening before we even broke ground. She the mission of the community she has played a huge role in keeping serves as well as the Y.” our board organized so that we can Planchet said, “I volunteer with achieve the progress we have seen the Y to better the world around us.” over the past couple years.” Springer added, “Volunteerism is Lindsey said of the award, “I volat the core of what we do in the unteer for the YMCA so I can posiYMCA. Volunteers provide purpose tively affect family structures in the to the YMCA’s mission and truly crelocal community. I believe the more ate community. Their service is positive activities available for chilinvaluable and by recognition, we dren and their families, the stronger hope to reinforce this in our volunthe familial bonds will be, and the teers.” community will be stronger as a The Spurlino Family Y is located result.” at 9650 Old Big Bend Rd. in Hester said, “It is important to Riverview. For information, call 436recognize volunteers so that their 5890. YMCA Camp Cristina is locathard work and the example they set ed at 9840 Balm Riverview Rd. in is seen by as many people as possiRiverview. For information, call 677ble. Hard work and generosity are 8400.
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Page 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Cruise Planners Plans Every Trip And Makes Dreams A Reality By Elisa Santana
Everyone dreams of travclients know they can reach eling. Whether you dream of out to me whenever they have traveling to a foreign country questions. And they know that like Australia or you dream of when they call me, they will going to Washington, travelalways deal with the same ing is something we all dream person, unlike the internet and work to be able to do. companies that are just “Helping people is the machines,” she said. “Our most exciting part,” said prices are also better. The Cruise Planners franchise prices they would see through owner Sherry Leybovich. internet companies are much Sherry with her two “Taking their vacation dreams higher than what our prices kids and husband. and making them a reality.” are.” From l-r: Sarah, Ron, Sherry, and Ben. Leybovich has been For all the locals wanting nominated into the Travel Agent Hall Of to set their trips in person, Leybovich will Fame, ranked as one of the top 25 travel meet with you face-to-face at either your agents in the U.S., and her franchise home or a local coffee shop to discuss ranked top ten from over 2,000 franchisyour wish list. After you tell her what you es. want, she will then want to discuss the Leybovich has been a franchise budget and if it can realistically cover your owner for 19 years. She began in the list. Lastly, she puts together a proposal of travel concierge business while working everything you discussed. for the US Embassy. Her husband was Cruise Planners makes sure to walk stationed in the embassy and travel you through every step of the way, from concierge was the only profession that booking your trip, helping you with choosdid not require a clearance. ing your excursions and following up to Cruise Planners – despite the name make sure everything is perfect. Cruise – does not just plan cruises; it plans every Planners also makes sure that you have type of trip you could think of taking. They the appropriate visas and your passport do escorted tours, tickets to worldwide in order. You are welcome to attend two events and other land trips. You can also upcoming free seminars at The Venue, go to various locations such as England, 11268 Boyette Rd. in Riverview: Tuesday, Scotland, Australia, New Zealand and April 16 from 1-3 p.m. with AMA anywhere in the United States. Waterways and Tuesday, April 30 from 1Leybovich said the things that sets 3 p.m. with Trafalgar Tours and Brendan Cruise Planners apart from other vacation Vacations. travel agencies are the customer service For information, contact Sherry and prices. Leybovich at 657-0844 or email sher“[Our] customer service is available ry@planourvacationnow.com. Visit 24 hours a day, seven days a week. My www.planourvacationnow.com.
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Page 13
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Pepin Academies Celebrates 20th Anniversary And A Bright Future
By Taylor Wells
On March 2 at suggesting it will be one TPepin’s Hospitality of our best galas ever, Centre, Pepin but we really don’t have Academies—a puball the numbers calculic, independent, lated yet to know the 501(c)(3), not-forexact numbers.” profit, tuition-free The school has charter school congrown immensely since sisting of three camits start in 1999, having puses—held a gala around 25 students in a with a silent auction Pepin Distributing Company President single schoolhouse in celebration of its and CEO Tom Pepin, Tampa campus only for high school. Principal Monika Perez, Riverview 20th anniversary, Now, Pepin has three campus Principal Geri Henry, New and all those years Port Richey campus Principal Celeste larger sites with over have been in support Keller and Executive Director Dr. Jeff 1,100 students collecSkowronek at the 20th anniversary of students with tively for 3rd through gala. learning and learn12th grade with a transiing-related disabilition program for stuties. The funds dents up to age 22. raised, thanks to “Pepin Academies many sponsors like is the only public charter SRD Engineers, will school of its kind…A lot greatly help its misof our students are sion. gonna go on to col“Twenty years leges, technical schools, ago, Pepin military; some of the Academies was creother schools in the ated because of the community may appear Hunter Frost, a graduate of Pepin lack of an educationto look like a similar Academies, speaking at its 20th anniversary gala. al foundation for chilpopulation, but they dren with disabilities don’t have the diploma in our community,” options that we have,” said Tom Pepin, said FTE Coordinator Cofounder of Pepin M’Liss Ferlita. “We have Academies and a program that is like no Chairman Emeritus other that’s available in of the Pepin the community.” Academies As such, Pepin’s Foundation. “We mission is of great would not be where importance, and we are today without Pepin Distributing Company President through events like the and CEO Tom Pepin, Florida the enormous supgala it can go farther for Representative Jackie Toledo and port and passion Pepin Academies Foundation Board its students. from our community Although there are Chair Natalie King at the 20th anniversary gala. partners like SRD no plans yet, it is open Engineers. It amazes me every day to to starting additional campuses to reach see how far we’ve come and what the more students who might struggle in typifuture holds.” cal school environments. “Not in the Pepin Academies will be dividing the immediate future, but I think as we funds equally towards its campuses in enhance what we already have in place, Riverview and Tampa in Hillsborough there’s always that mindset of looking to County and New Port Richey in Pasco where else we can help students that County. The funds will allow improvecould use a program like ours,” said Geri ments such as expanding its Pepin Henry, Principal of the Riverview camTransitional program for more workplace pus.Pepin Academies’ campuses are opportunities, purchasing new technology, located in Riverview at 9304 Camden classrooms trying new initiatives and Field Pkwy., Tampa at 3916 E. improving curriculums. Hillsborough Ave. and New Port Richey at “We had quite a few sponsors donat9804 Little Rd. ing anywhere from five to 10 to even 25 For info, visit pepinacademies.com or thousand dollars,” said Dr. Jeff call 533-2999 (Riverview), 236-1755 Skowronek, Executive Director of the (Tampa) or 727-233-2961 (New Port Hillsborough campuses. “Projections are Richey) locations.
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Page 14
Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Senior Leagues:
Early Risers - Mondays - 9:00 am Kings & Queens - Mondays - 1:00 pm Summer Senior Trio - Fridays - 10:00 am
Mixed Leagues:
Senior Colored Pin: Tuesdays - 1:00 pm Thursdays - 9:30 am & 1:00 pm Blue Moon No-Tap Experience: Thursdays - 6:30 pm
T
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Lady Bugs - Mondays - 10:00 am
Mens League:
South Shore Men - Wednesdays - 6:30
Youth Leagues:
Mondays - 6:30 pm Earn a bowling ball while having FUN!
ls an
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l l u af
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Ladies League:
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Monday Mixed: Mondays - 6:30 pm Tuesday Mixers Tuesdays 6:30 pm Wednesday Fun Timers Wednesdays - 6:30 pm
a u d i v I n di
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10221 Big Bend Rd. Riverview 813.672.8353
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Sign Up On Our Website: THEALLEYATSOUTHSHORE.COM This This list list is is not not all-inclusive. all-inclusive. Times Times and and dates dates are are subject subject to to change change The The Alley Alley has has many many other other leagues leagues and and organized organized fun fun bowling bowling events. If none of the leagues listed above meet your need, please see a guest service representative for more information. events. If none of the leagues listed above meet your need, please see a guest service representative for more information.
April 2019
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 15
Infant And Child Survival Swim Lessons Could Save A Life
The Crossing Church SouthShore Campus To Hold Easter Service In New Building
Most new partaught that are not ents are preoccupied conducive to actual with changing diaswimming or floating pers, sleep schedand I'm having to ules and feedings, ‘unteach’ those but child experts skills.” strongly encourage Bahour teaches all parents to enroll children to inhale their new family before going undermember in infant water rather than self-rescue swim lesexhale because sons. With Florida’s exhaling will cause a sunny weather and child sink and give access to pools and them a constant other bodies of water, it feeling of being out of is an unfortunate statistic breath when subthat children under the merged. She teaches age of 4 make up the the straight propulsive majority of Florida's child type of kicks rather drownings. Even more than the peddling unfortunate is that kicks. Peddling will Hillsborough County led keep children vertical Watch Me Swim has been the state in child drown- teaching aquatic survival lessons in the water and will to infants, toddlers and children for ings in 2018, with 11 only create resistance. more than 19 years in reported deaths, more “Another important Hillsborough County. than the previous two years combined. thing to watch out for are programs that No one knows this better than teach children to jump in the water, turn Riverview resident Kari Bahour, owner of and grab the edge, but don't teach the Watch Me Swim. More than 19 years actual rollback-to-float,” said Bahour. ago, Bahour experienced a near tragedy “What if the edge was not within when she saw the almost lifeless body of reach? Or if there was no edge at all her then 18-month-old son pulled from a like a pond or lake?” freezing pool. Survival swimming skills and self“Thankfully, my son survived the incirescue skills are an added measure of dent without complications, but protection against drowning. Bahour way too many children aren't so lucky,” explains that it is the final layer for said Bahour. “I knew then I needed to when all other layers of protection, make sure nothing like this ever happens such as a momentary lapse in adult to another parent or child.” supervision or a barrier, do not exis; This incident ignited a career change the child would have a good chance of for Bahour, who is now a certified master surviving if taught how to rollback-toswim instructor and has dedicated the float or swim/float/swim. last 19 years of her life to teach actual “My favorite part about what I actuaquatic problem-solving skills to prevent ally do is seeing the transition of a drowning tragedies. timid, screaming child in the water to a “We have a community epidemic and skilled and confident swimmer and drowning does not discriminate,” said ‘aquatic problem-solver’ in the water,” Bahour. “It happens to the best and most said Bahour. “I still get moved and diligent of parents. Children are naturally emotional every time despite 19 years curious and overly confident around the and thousands of students later.” water. Teaching them confidence and Throughout her 19-year career, how to jump in the water without having Bahour has had many success stories proper aquatic skills only puts children in and receives messages from parents more danger.” thanking her for potentially saving their According to Bahour, not all swim child’s life. lessons are created equal and she urges “This if far more than a paycheck parents to do their research before for me. It truly is my passion,” said choosing a swim lesson for their infant or Bahour. “It's what I'm supposed to be toddler. doing. I thank God for the ability to “I often get kids who have been in make that kind of a difference.” other traditional-type swim programs For more information, visit before coming to Watch Me Swim,” said www.WatchMeSwim.com or call 643Bahour. “Many behaviors have been SWIM (7946).
The first servpolice departments ice for in the new four different times," facility of The said Pastor Rivera. Crossing Church "They bring their SouthShore is trucks and interact scheduled for with the families at Resurrection our events." Sunday, April 21. He added, Service times are “People know The new facility at The 8:45 and 10:30 Crossing Church at SouthShore SouthShore is close to a.m. For those [the church] is completion. The first early risers, the here, now they service is scheduled for Easter Sunday. first service is a litwill be able to tle less crowded, but with the first serv- join us in our new location.” ice being on Easter Sunday consider The new campus features a spacoming early. cious auditorium with seating for 1,000 Even though this campus has been people, expanded youth and children’s meeting for several years in its current areas, and office space for the growing location about half a mile away, this volunteer staff who ministers to its new campus has that feeling of the first ever-increasing body. step, but in the same direction. Architects incorporated that sense SouthShore campus pastor Hector of a growing family into the building Rivera embodies that proud papa emo- design. Gathering space is built into tion as he walks the building still under the lobby, so it functions as a place to construction. “We are expecting," he meet, greet and fellowship. Come early repeated. to enjoy coffee with friends. Don’t be The church is already active in the surprised if your neighbors are already community. Neighborhoods like Del there. Webb, River Bend, Vista Palms, The building design has a covered Covington Park, Waterset and MiraBay drop-off area for parents to get kids in already know The Crossing and out at the main entrance. The SouthShore for its 'come and meet brand-new SouthShore location is your neighbor' events. Sponsoring 2409 East College Ave. in Ruskin on events or partnering with local block the corner of College and 24th St. parties, the church thrives outside the For more info or to see a video of building in its community. The church's the new campus in progress, visit heart for the communities includes indi- www.wearecrossing.com/southshore viduals, businesses and local first and click on New Building Info. The responders. church office can be reached at 626"We will be feeding the fire and 0783.
By Kelly Wise Valdes
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Page 16
Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Local Businesses Celebrated By Riverview Chamber Of Commerce Staff Report
The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) has been busy this month with local ribbon-cuttings:
just south of Falkenburg Rd.) Call 6129550 or visit www.uptownsuites.com.
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Moe’s Southwest Grill
GRCC members were welcomed to Moe’s Southwest Grill–Summerfield’s grand opening celebration. During the ribbon-cutting, members and staff of Moe’s celebrated with another cheerful round of their greeting call, “Welcome to Moe’s®!” Moe’s Southwest Grill, founded in 2000 in Atlanta, Georgia, is a fast, casual restaurant serving high quality, fresh southwestern food. Its extensive variety of menu items is sure to please the entire family. Best known for burritos, the menu also features kids', vegetarian and low-calorie options–all served with free chips and salsa. Moe’s also does catering. Moe's Southwest Grill–Summerfield is located at 13012 US Hwy. 301 S. Call 445-7811 or visit www.moes.com.
Ribbon-cutting for Moe’s Southwest Grill
Ribbon-cutting for Howie Mac
Ribbon-cutting for Uptown Suites
A grand opening for Satin and Lace
Howie Mac Photo
GRCC members were invited to the grand opening celebration to congratulate and tour Howie Mac Photo. It is a different type of photography studio designed to focus on the hearts of the people photographed, the heart of the community served and the hearts of those who are looking to learn. A variety of options will help you document your story, from full family sessions to magical minis. Whether it is getting your photos off of your phone and onto your walls, learning how to use your DSLR camera or expressing yourself through one of its themed collaborative workshops, you will find a class that speaks to your heart. Howie Mac Photo is located in beautiful Winthrop Plaza, 11292 Sullivan St. Call 315-8332 or visit www.howiemacphoto.com.
Motion ChiroTherapy
Members of GRCC and friends from Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce were on hand to see the new clinic and to congratulate Dr. Bob Lutz
SouthBay Auto Service
A multi-chamber celebration was held to welcome Motion ChiroTherapy to the area.
and the Motion ChiroTherapy Team at the ribbon-cutting celebrating its grand opening.ChiroTherapy is dedicated to providing progressive, evidence-based care with individualized treatment plans for each patient, offering an innovative and advanced integrated approach to provide patients with the highest standard of nonsurgical care. Their goal is to not only help you feel better, but to empower every individual to start living healthier, more functional lives. It is located at 16765 Fishhawk Blvd. Call 793-7791or visit www.motionchirotherapy.com.
SouthBay Auto Service celebrated its new location and 10 years in business.
Uptown Suites
GRCC members were treated to lots of fun, festivities and food, which included a tour of the apartment-style suites at the recent ribbon-cutting of Uptown Suites, the new extended stay brand designed entirely around the needs of travelers who need a home away from home for a while. The furnished apartment-style suites are full of modern conveniences and community amenities including on-demand grocery delivery, 24/7 gym, on-site guest laundry, and an electric car charging station. Uptown Suites is located at 9321 Everhart Rd. in Riverview (off Hwy. 301
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GRCC members celebrated the grand opening of Satin and Lace, the new venture of Peter and Alison Farnan. GRCC members, along with family and friends, were on hand to congratulate them and see the beautiful wedding gowns. Satin and Lace is Riverview's premiere sophisticated bridal boutique (and Tuxedo rental provider). With designers like Casablanca Bridal, Albert Griffin, Allure and Justin Alexander, there is something for every bride’s special day. Its expert staff is dedicated to making each experience private, stress-free and fun with dresses for every budget and style. Each bride receives a personalized shopping experience with her own private suite and a celebratory champagne toast when she says ‘yes’ to her dress. It located in beautiful Winthrop Plaza at 11286 Sullivan St. Call 381-4110 or visit www.satinandlacebridalboutique.com.
Clothing and Accessories, Housewares, Furniture, Children’s Toys, and so much more! You can help to sustain our programs by shopping with us and by donating your gently used items.
Electronic Recycling & Reuse
GRCC members were invited to attend the ribbon-cutting of Michael and Jennifer Griest of SouthBay Auto Service celebrating its new location and the 10th Anniversary of the business. SouthBay Auto Service is a Christian family-owned and operated auto repair facility providing full automotive service and maintenance on Asian and Hybrid vehicles as well as service on late model American vehicles. Michael is an ASE Master Technician with over 30 years of experience in the auto repair industry with over 20 of those years dedicated to Asian vehicles. Jennifer has 20+ years in office and retail management and handles the ‘back office’ demands and marketing of the business. It is located at 6140 Shirley Ave. in Gibsonton. Call 741-2886 or visit www.southbayautoservice.net.
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April 2019
Page 17
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Enjoy Cajun Style Seafood Dinners At The 9th Annual Crawfish Festival
By Taylor Wells
The Rotary haps an obstacle Club of course. FishHawkPreorder Riverview is food tickets on proud to present the Crawfish the Ninth Annual Festival’s website Crawfish Festival. until Thursday, Come to the festiApril 25 by 2 p.m. val to enjoy fun A single crawfish times and all the dinner ticket is Cajun seafood You can enjoy lots of delicious Cajun crawfish $20 and includes and good times at the Ninth Annual Crawfish you can eat. This two pounds of Festival on Saturday, April 27. is an event you crawfish, corn do not want to miss. and potatoes. There is also “This year is going to the family pack ticket, be bigger and better,” said which is $50 and includes Rhonda McDaniel, the two crawfish meals, two organizer of the event. “We hot dogs or hamburgers, will have more vendors two sodas and two beers. with unique and original You can also preorder items and designs. We Crawfish Festival T-shirts. have new sponsorships this year, like It is $15 for small, medium, large and XL Ferman Mazda and Passion Organic T-shirts and $18 for 2XL and 3XL T-shirts. Farm, but last and not least, our title Admission into the festival and for sponsor, Christopher Ligori & Associates, children’s activities, raffles and entertainAttorneys at Law, presents the Ninth ment is free. Annual Crawfish Festival.” All proceeds made through the festiNew vendors at the event this year val will benefit sponsorship programs as include Gaia Donut with gluten, allergy, well as charities such as Rotary’s Camp dairy and nut-free donuts; Baby Bling Florida, the Head Start program, ECHO Bows with bling shirts, bags, skirts and (Emergency Care Help Organization), A more; Billy’s Original Grillscarf; RAZKid’s Place and CART (Coins for ZLEDAZZLE Barbershop; Moonshine Alzheimer’s Research Trust). Sunglasses; Everlasting Gifts Inc. with The Ninth Annual Crawfish Festival kitchen towels, ponchos and blankets; will be held from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on and Mainstream Boutique. These are just Saturday, April 27, rain or shine, at some of the vendors. Founders Square Park at Winthrop Town There will also be other activities for Centre, located at 11109 Winthrop Market all ages, such as music by Otis and the St. in Riverview. Visit https://www.luvcrawOld School Band, face painting and perfish.com/.
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New Affordable Garden-Style Apartments Coming To Brandon Area
By Libby Hopkins
Sabal Parking in Brandon will soon be home to a new affordable, garden-style apartment community. Blue Sky Communities broke ground on the Preserve at Sabal Park this past February.
Sabal Park in Brandon will soon be home to a new affordable, garden-style apartment community. Blue Sky Communities broke ground on the Preserve at Sabal Park in February. The Preserve will be a sixbuilding, three-story, garden-style housing community consisting of 48 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 24 three-bedroom units totaling approximately 138,912 sq. ft. All apartments will be equipped with a kitchen, bathroom(s), and storage closets. Amenities include a community building, playground, pool and free parking. “The Sabal Park location has been awarded nine percent LowIncome Housing Tax Credits,” said Blue Sky Communities’ President, Shawn Wilson. “It will use the proceeds of the sale of these credits, estimated at $20M, as the primary source of funding for its development.” In addition, a Bank Loan of $5M from Citi Community Capital of $112K finances the development from Hillsborough County, $439K from the Hillsborough HFA and $1.25M from Florida Housing Finance Corporation. Shawn Wilson and James Chadwick formed Blue Sky Communities in 2012. Since its formation, it has been awarded funding from Florida Housing Finance Corporation for 14 developments.
“We are very active in state and local housing coalitions as well,” Wilson said. “Blue Sky Communities is a developer of multifamily affordable housing using the Federal Housing Credits program. Blue Sky is also a
leading advocate for helping nonprofit groups reach their affordable housing goals by developing state-of-theart, environmentally sound, affordable housing units.” Through partnerships, Blue Sky helps these groups by developing neighborhood assets that stakeholders can be proud of for decades. “To date, Blue Sky has developed over 1,000 units of affordable housing units,” Wilson said. “Additionally, we have over 550 more units in the pipeline for 2018-2019. These communities include housing for the homeless and disabled Veterans. Blue Sky’s principles have lived in Florida for more than 50 years. Blue Sky understands the importance of development funding being spent locally for the benefit of local businesses and residents.” Blue Sky will provide brand-new apartment homes with all modern conveniences as well as a large clubhouse and pool for less than $500 for some units; although, most units will be in the $800 range. This ensures that families have adequate disposable income to save or to spend at local establishments.” Visit www.blueskycommunities.com.
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April 2019
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 21
Bloomingdale Resident Receives Lightning Community Hero Award
Local Resident Named Armed Forces Insurance Marine Corps Spouse Of The Year®
help by providing these items as well as linens, kitchen equipment and decorative pieces. By the time we leave, the house is feeling like a home.” Thanks to generous donations from businesses and residents, Stamey states that the charity’s biggest need is not currently furniture, although they will always accept donations. “We have a warehouse of items and a Pam Stamey of Home Makers of Hope was named a Tampa Bay great network on donors,” Lightning Community Hero last she said. “What we really month. She is asking for residents’ help in expanding need are volunteers to help the number of families her charity can reach. us deliver the items to the Bloomingdale resident Pam Stamey families.” and her charity Home Makers of Hope The charity helped 255 families last received some well-deserved recognition year and currently has a waiting list of six last month. Stamey was named The months with more than 45 families on it. Tampa Bay Lightning’s Community Hero “We need more truck drivers, wareat a game in early March, granting the house workers, interior designers and charity $50,000, but she is now asking for people with a passion for changing lives,” help making an even bigger impact with said Stamey. the money. Home Makers of Hope currently has Home Makers of Help is a 501(c)(3) three teams serving different areas of nonprofit dedicated to providing essential Hillsborough County and Stamey is hopfurnishings and household items to famiing to soon add a fourth dedicated to lies struggling with poverty. helping pregnant women. But she cannot “We help people who are truly poor do this without more volunteers. and can change their lives in an hour with “At this time, we set up six to eight our donations,” said Stamey. families a week, but with help we can do The group receives donations of furso many more,” she said. niture and other household items and For info, visit www.homemakerpasses them on to people, referred to sofhope.com. On the website, residents them by 30 local schools and agencies, can request a pickup for items, make a who cannot afford to purchase the items monetary donation and learn more about themselves. volunteering. Donations can also be “When we go in, we find families dropped off on Tuesdays from 9 a.m.-1 without beds, kitchenware, couches or p.m. at the group’s warehouse located at tables,” said Stamey. “They are sleeping 2900 B E. 7th Ave. in Ybor City. and eating on the floor. We are able to
After 1,200 nation“My family means the wide nominations and a world to me and being national vote yielding involved in their lives is more than 86,000 votes, incredibly important. Our River Hills resident Holly love only grows stronger Vega has been named as we move and grow in the 2019 Armed Forces different locations,” said Insurance Marine Corps Vega. “It has also helped Spouse of the Year®. us gain a greater appreciaVega is currently station and love for all of the tioned with her husmilitary band, Javier Vega, families Lieutenant Colonel, we have River Hills resident Holly attached to MARCENT. Vega was recently named met 2019 Armed Forces Now in its 12th year along the Insurance Marine Corps honoring the dedication way, and Spouse of the Year®. and sacrifices of our I look fornation’s more than 1.1 million military ward to connecting with other like-minded spouses, Armed Forces Insurance is spouses through this award program. I proud to recognize military spouses from hope to encourage mentorship across the all six branches of the Armed Forces board and empower spouses to be who making a difference in their communities. they are and recognize how their unique Vega has served the military in and individual gifts are all important to our numerous volunteer capacities to include military community.” family readiness volunteer coordinator, As a branch winner, Vega is now a liaison for international spouses and step closer to being named the overall L.I.N.K.S. mentor with Marine Corps 2019 Armed Forces Insurance Military Family Team Building. She is most Spouse of the Year® (MSOY). Through a known for her work with children. Having combination of popular vote and judging three of her own, Vega has eagerly volun- panels, the nominees have been whittled teered as a Girl Scout Troop Leader, PTO down to base winners and then six chairperson, school military children’s club branch winners. After the final vote conco-leader and DODEA school board ducted on March 7-8, the overall winner member. Spending time with her family will be announced at an awards dinner on and being a role model for family values Thursday, May 9 at Fort Meyer in is what makes her heart happy. Speaking Arlington, VA in conjunction with National of hearts, Vega is also a healthy heart Military Spouse Appreciation Day, which advocate and co-leader for Military Hearts occurs on Friday, May 10. Matter through the American Heart To learn more, please visit Association (AHA). www.msoy.afi.org.
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Page 22
Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
French Olympic Skating Pair Trains In Tampa Bay By Nick Nahas and Photos Courtesy of Garrett Spain French skating duo working with them,” said Vanessa James and Morgan Zimmerman. “They are older and Cipres have had a lot of sucmore mature and they know cess this season, winning the what they want, which is fun in a 2018 Grand Prix Final and different way. They are very drivthe 2019 European en and they are never sitting Championship in recent back and relaxing.” months. The Olympic pairs James has been coming to skaters train here in the Riverview twice a week to train Tampa Bay area during the with Tyana Marlowe, owner and season. coach of Tampa Bay Rhythmics James has been skating and Dance. James said she for 20 years and Cipresfor a wanted to become flexible using little over 20 years. They the correct technique, and began skating together about admired the straight lines of nine years ago. “We have rhythmic gymnasts. “They are known each other for a long strong, they have lean muscles James and Cipres have been Cipres lifts James with ease. The duo has skated in two time now, and we are really and their positions are perfect,” skating together for nine years. Olympics together. good friends off the ice and ography and lifts. she said. “It’s made a big difference in leave for Japan on the ice,” said Cipres. “I feel good “We are our skating this year." again to comwhen I skate with her, and I don’t see always having to The pair’s next competition is pete in the ISU myself skating with anyone else.” work on different coming up in Japan and is the last World Team “What I like about Morgan is that levels and differmajor event this season. They will take Trophy in figure he is very competitive and he’s a perent aspects of some time off afterwards for about skating. fectionist, which isn’t always easy, but skating,” said three weeks and go back to France. The prepait makes champions,” said James. Zimmerman. He “We want to do something good for ration that they “He’s pushed us to where we are said that taking the team, and I think everybody’s motitake during the today.” time off and vated to be at the top and getting closseason can be They relocated to Tampa two changing the er to the podium and make our coundescribed as years ago and train at Florida training program try proud,” said Cipres. grueling at Hospital’s Center Ice in Wesley routine around is “We have to stay focused,” said times. Chapel. James and Cipres are siximportant to avoid James. “If we can get our team on the According to time French National Champions. injury and to keep podium, it would be a great accomThe pair recently won the 2019 European They competed in last year’s Olympics Coach John their muscles plishment for the entire team and the Championship. Zimmerman, and the 2014 Olympics together as guessing to work country.” who has well, and they are well-known for their the different muscle core groups. It James and Cipres have the 2022 worked with the pair for three seasons Sound of Silence program. They also keeps them engaged and interOlympics in the back of their minds, now, they work a lot on cardio and recently competed in Japan in the ested in skating and not burned out. but right now they are just focused on strength training in addition to choreWorld Championships, and they will “It’s been an awesome experience what is in front of them.
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Page 24
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 April 2019 Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach
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Egg Hunts, Crafts, Activities And Family Fun All Around Town First Presbyterian Church of Brandon will host an Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, April 20 at 10 a.m. Bring a basket and a dish to share. The event will feature crafts, games, an egg hunt and potluck lunch. The church is located at 121 Carver Ave. in Brandon. Grace Baptist Church will host an Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 20 at 10 a.m. Children 12 and under are asked to bring a basket for the hunt. The egg hunt will also include complimentary photos with the Easter Bunny. The church is located at 2909 John Moore Rd. in Brandon. For more information, visit www.growingatgrace.com. Hawthorne Village Retirement Community invites you to its Bunny Hop Treat Trail on Friday, April 19. The ribbon cutting to open the treat trail is at 10:30 a.m. There will be treat stations set up on the trail and the Easter Bunny will be on site. Hawthorne Village is located at 859 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 661-8998 or visit hawthornevillageofbrandon.com. Holy Innocents' Episcopal Church will hold a free Easter breakfast and egg hunt on Sunday, April 21 at 9:15 a.m. The church is located at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. For more information, contact the church office at 689-3130. Lighthouse Freedom Center will
host its annual Easter of Hope Outreach on Saturday, April 13 at 11 a.m. The event includes Riverview's largest egg hunt and a free bike give-
away. Celebrate Jesus with food, fun, face painting, candy, prizes, dance contests, skits and more. All are welcome to this free family event. LRC is located at 7211 S. 78th St. in Riverview. For more information, visit www.lrcchurch.com. Living Savior Lutheran Church will host an Easter breakfast featuring generous portions of breakfast items on Sunday, April 21 at 8:30 a.m. Then at 9:15 a.m., children are invited to participate in an Easter egg hunt. The church is located at 2650 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Next Level Church FishHawk will do a Helicopter Egg Drop at a secret location on Sunday, April 21. The drop will take place after the church’s Easter experience held at Newsome High School at 10 a.m. To receive a
By Amanda Boston
wristband and access to the egg drop location, you will need to attend the 10 a.m. experience. The egg drop is free and will also include bounce houses, face painting and other family-friendly activities. Registration is required for entry, visit www.2019eggdrop.com to register and for more information. Plant City's Annual City-wide Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon. The event features an Easter egg hunt, food, photos with the Easter bunny, inflatables and more. The egg hunt is free, but other activities cost a nominal fee. The egg hunt is for all
youths ages 3-11, and children will be divided into age groups. Two special ‘Golden Eggs’ will be hidden in each egg nest. Finders turn them in for a large Easter Basket after the hunt. The event is held at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, located at 2402 East Cherry St. in Plant City. More information can be found at https://www.plantcitygov.com/parksrec/page/city-wide-easter-egg-hunt. Redeemer Church will hold its
annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 20 at 9:30 a.m. for toddlers through fifth grade. The free event also includes refreshments, a special craft and worship. The church is located at 12404 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. For more information, visit www.redeemerriverview.org. South Bay Church will host an Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon. The egg hunt will feature more than 20,000 eggs, a food truck rally, music, prizes and the Easter Bunny. The church is located at 13498 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview. For more information, visit www.southbay.church. St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church Of Brandon will host its annual Easter egg hunt and festivities on Sunday, April 14 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on campus. The event will include games, crafts, cookie decorating food and of course, egg hunts featuring an indoor toddler room and an indoor glow in the dark hunt for older kids. The outdoor egg hunt will include a fenced-in area where those age 5 and under can hunt eggs with kids their size. Eggs will be colorcoded to help children with allergies distinguish non-candy/peanut-free items. Kona Ice will also be on location selling some cool treats. The event is free but please register online at www.eventbrite.com/e/egg-hunt-2019tickets-58540521275. The church is located at 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Questions Answered About Stormwater Ponds And Why We Need Them
By David Kramer, P.E.
Q: What are ponds. Removal of exotstormwater ponds ic, nuisance and excess and why do we need vegetation is allowed. them? Just make sure to conA: A stormwater sult your association or pond is designed to CDD and the District collect and manage before removing any sigrunoff from rainwater. nificant amount of vegeWhen rainwater lands tation. The District recon rooftops, parking ommends selective lots, streets, drivemaintenance and ways and other hard removal by hand rather David Kramer, ERP Evaluation surfaces, the rainfall than mass removal of Manager for Southwest Florida that doesn’t soak into native wetland vegetaWater Management District, is a the ground (stormwation that becomes estabprofessional engineer and has served as the engineering manager lished in a stormwater ter runoff) flows into of the Environmental Resource your neighborhood pond. The District does Permit (ERP) Evaluation Section stormwater pond not recommend cutting, since 2006. through grates, pipes, shallow swales or mowing, using herbicides or introducing ditches. Stormwater ponds are required grass carp to remove native vegetation. for most new development (since the Use only herbicides labeled for aquatic 1980s) and are specifically designed to use, otherwise it may harm fish and other help prevent flooding and remove polluaquatic life, and it is prohibited by state tants from the water. Without these and federal law. ponds, stormwater would carry pollutants Q: Is it OK to use stormwater ponds like litter, motor oil, gasoline, fertilizers, for recreational purposes such as fishing, pesticides, pet wastes, sediments and swimming or kayaking? anything else that can float into nearby streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, estuaries or the Gulf of Mexico. Q: Who is responsible for maintenance of stormwater ponds in my neighborhood? A: Recreational use of stormwater A: Once the developer has completponds is potentially hazardous to your ed construction of the roads and drainage health and is not recommended. system in a neighborhood, the property Stormwater ponds are designed to capowner’s association (or in some cases, a ture and retain stormwater runoff, which community development district (CDD)) is may contain many different types of poltypically responsible for maintaining the lution, including sediments, oils, greasneighborhood drainage system, including es, trash, nutrients, heavy metals, pestithe stormwater ponds. cides, herbicides and pathogens. Q: Can I remove vegetation from my Q: What can residents do to help stormwater pond? prevent pollution and flooding in A: Many stormwater ponds are stormwater ponds? designed and required to include native A: Never fill or obstruct stormwater aquatic vegetation. Native vegetation will ponds, swales and retention systems, filter polluted runoff, trap sediments, conas that will potentially keep the trol the growth of nuisance vegetation and stormwater pond from working as help make the pond aesthetically pleasdesigned. Don’t dump excess oils and ing. Aquatic plants pump oxygen into the other chemicals from your home or yard water and create a habitat by providing waste, including grass clippings, into cover and nurseries for fish and other stormwater drains or ponds. Also, be organisms. Pond owners often request sure to clean up pet waste so nutrients approval to remove vegetation that and bacteria don’t enter stormwater becomes overgrown in stormwater drains.
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April 2019
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Tandoor Indian Cuisine Brings Exotic Indian Culinary Delights To Brandon
By Libby Hopkins
It is often said rant has this dish, but that, “Behind the the way we make it, to success of every be honest, I do not small business, think I’ve had it anythere is a family.” where else,” Beulah This statement said. “The way we best describes make it here is so rich Tandoor Indian and creamy and full of Cuisine in flavor.” Brandon, a familyMany people who owned and operathave not tried Indian ed restaurant. “My food are often scared parents opened to because they think it Tandoor Indian Cuisine in Brandon is a is too spicy. Beulah and the restaurant in local, family-owned restaurant located at November of 2008 his family are aware of 805 E. Brandon Blvd. with no restaurant or business experithis, so they give their guests options for ence,” said Keziah Beulah, restaurant how spicy they can have their food. “If manager. “My mom has always loved to you have never tried Indian food because cook and would cook for friends and fami- you think it might be too spicy, we have ly. People would always tell my mom how many items on our menu that are not good of a cook she is, so my parents spicy at all,” Beulah said. “Most of our went forward with the idea to open a menu, you can choose the spice level restaurant to share their cooking.” that you would like (mild, medium, hot or Tandoor Indian Cuisine opened when Indian).” Beulah was a junior in high school. Beulah and his family are strong sup“When they had the idea of opening the porters of shopping local as well. “We restaurant more than 10 years ago, there know the struggle of being a local busiwere not any Indian restaurants in the ness and how much hard work needs to Brandon area,” Beulah said. be put in to survive,” Beulah said. “The Being a family-owned and operated amount of work my parents put in to the restaurant is what makes Tandoor Indian restaurant just reminds me that shopping Cuisine different from some of the other local is better for our community and it Indian restaurants in the area. “We ourcan also help out a lot of people.” selves eat there a lot and we want to Visit www.tandoorbrandon.com or make sure the food we eat is of the best call Beulah at 654-7300. It is located at quality,” Beulah said. “So, the products 805 E. Brandon Blvd. The hours of operathat we use for our guests are the same tion for lunch are Monday to Saturday we are using for ourselves.” from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner hours are Chicken Tikka Masala is their most Monday to Saturday 4–9 p.m. The popular dish. “Almost every Indian restau- restaurant is closed on Sundays.
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Page 27
Page 28
Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Southshore Insurance Professionals Celebrates Five Years Serving Community
May 3rd
By Manuela Graf
Trusted. Local. “I believe our focus on Convenient. These are education and providing the principles that information to our clients Southshore Insurance along with building relaProfessionals™ prides its tionships makes us differservices upon. The indeent. Our customer experipendent insurance firm ence is something we recently celebrated its work hard on every day fifth anniversary on and we’ve got a customer March 14, recogexperience solution for nizing its service to everyone. Our experience Michelle Mosher is whatever our client’s all clients seeking is the founder of the best insurance need dictates and as Southshore products and polithose needs change, we Insurance Professionals. cies for them. adapt to those things,” she Licensed agent said. and owner of Southshore Insurance Given Florida’s unique insurance Professionals Michelle Mosher welcomes market, Southshore Insurance also prides the company’s anniversary with enthusiitself on providing services to accommoasm and advocates for the company’s date these needs. mission. “We have a wide selection of prod“Our mission is to be sure that we’re ucts and services because of Florida’s providing a service that educates our market. We have markets for all sorts of community. We’re committed to risks, whether it’s private flood insurance, provide\ing insurance solutions that the mobile homes, high risk auto insurance or client can understand and provide only such,” she said. the highest quality information, services, In addition to founding the company, products and insurance carriers,” said Mosher has also taken on the role of Mosher. President of the Greater Riverview “Our agency offers an array of perChamber of Commerce and is passionsonal and commercial insurance policies. ate about supporting local businesses as We write home, auto, flood, collector vehi- well. cle, commercial property, liability and “I have learned that there is nowhere workers’ compensation coverage, just to else I’d rather be serving than in this comname a few,” she said. munity,” she said. As an independent insurance compaCall 448-7580 or text 517-8181. ny, Southshore Insurance proudly makes Southshore Insurance can be found on customer service a priority to provide a social media platforms including unique experience to its clients, according Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest or to Mosher. visit https://southshoreins.com/.
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Page 29
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
ub l C c i t a r c o m e D Club ’s n a m o W , s t e Me … Events & MCoolreseanti, helle Compiled by Mic server.com ob ey pr michelle@os
South Shore Democratic Club May Meeting
Join the South Shore Democratic Club for the May meeting held at the (golf cart friendly) Sun City Center Chamber of Commerce, located at 1651 Sun City Center Plaza in Sun City Center on the first Thursday of the month, May 2. Meet ‘n Mingle with refreshments at 1 p.m. and join the general meeting at 1:30 p.m. Join fellow democrats, liberals, progressives & independents to welcome Ione Townsend, Hillsborough County Democratic Party Chair, for an update on the local and state party. All democrats and like-minded individuals are invited and encouraged to attend this free event. Please visit and Like the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SSDEMCLUB or visit www.SouthShoreDemocrats.org for more information.
Attendees At Apollo Beach Woman’s Club Mystery Theater Luncheon Figure Out Whodunnit! Over 150 people arrived at the South Shore Falls Clubhouse on March 10 to enjoy the Apollo Beach Woman Club’s (ABWC) second annual Mystery
menu details and reservations, contact Theater Luncheon: The Sharon Vasquez at 641-7856 or Chicago Caper put on by sharonlvasquez@verizon.net. the Pelican Players. The Reservations must be made and paid fundraiser was even bigfor by Friday, May 3. The meeting, led ger and better than last by ABWC president, Katherine Cintron, year’s success. will begin at 11:30 a.m. for socializing Throughout the and lunch will be served at 12 Noon. Chicago-style luncheon, This luncheon is for the Presentation of catered by Econ Deli, the Scholarships and the installation of offitalented actors of the cers for 2019-2020. Pelican Players delighted The ABWC has been serving the the audience with their presentacommunity since tion of the mys1959. The primary tery as everyone mission is providtried to figure out ing scholarships ‘whodunnit?’ for the education Attendees also Research Oceanographer, Dr. Kimberly and training of stuenjoyed a sumpYates presented information from a collabodents who live in tuous array of rative research study involving Tampa Bay Apollo Beach and about the impacts on coral reefs and estuardesserts that ies from coastal and ocean acidification and the surrounding were ‘to die for,’ the unexpected benefit from seagrass areas with a contributed by recovery in at the ABWC March luncheon. demonstrated ABWC members financial need. If and coordinated A. Matar, MD, FACC, FSCAI, Associate you wish to get by Peggy Professor of Medicine, Cardiovascular acquainted, attend Sciences, USF Health Morsani College Palmieri. any events or join The event, of Medicine Director, Cardiac Cath information can be Laboratory, Tampa General Hospital Attendees at the ABWC 2nd Annual Mystery including an aucLuncheon try to solve the murder mystery while found tion and raffle, Mind Health is presented by Amanda a few of the Pelican Players walk amongst at www.apolraised more Smith, MD, Associate Professor them. lobeachwomanmoney than last Psychiatry and Behavioral sclub.com or contact Claudia Gassett year, with all proceeds going to the Neurosciences Director of Clinical at 352-258ABWC college scholarships. Photos Research, USF Health Byrd 4580/claudiagassett@me.com. can be viewed at www.apollobeachAlzheimer’s Institute Jeffrey Lester, MD, womansclub.com/index.html. CWDP Tampa General Medical Group Heart & Mind Health As We Age The importance of preventive care Symposium Apollo Beach Woman’s Club and referrals to specialists from primary A Symposium on Heart and Mind Membership Luncheons care physicians will also be discussed. Health will take place at the Kings The Apollo Beach Woman’s Club Complimentary light lunch is proPoints Veterans Theater at 1900, (ABWC) will hold its last luncheon of vided by Tampa General Hospital. Clubhouse Dr. in Sun City Center on the season on Wednesday, May 8 at Registration is required. A minimum Thursday, April 25. Registration and Apollo’s Bistro, located at 6520 Richies number of registrants is required or the lunch are from 12:30–1 p.m. and the Way in Apollo Beach. event may be scheduled for a later date. program are 1-3 p.m. The luncheon cost is $18. For For info, visit www.tgh.org/healthed or call Heart Health is presented by Fadi 660-6101.
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Page 30
Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
New Dad Thanks His Fire Rescue Team After Electrocution Accident
By Kate Quesada
A team of tal. Hillsborough “The acciCounty Fire dent happened Rescuers on December (HCFR) 6 and my son received a spewas born on cial thank you December 9,” last month. said Stevens. Bloomingdale “He is now resident Wes three months Stevens preold, the same sented the fireas me.” fighters that Stevens is saved his life in a woodworking December with Bloomingdale resident and Tampa Firefighter Wes hobbyist who handmade Stevens recently presented handmade wooden flags sells his art to the team of Hillsborough County Fire Rescuers through his wooden flags who saved his life in December. to thank them business, for coming to Black Axe his aid when Designs. he lost con“I have sciousness in been doing his home. woodwork for Stevens, several years,” who is also a said Stevens. firefighter at “I started makTampa’s Fire ing cornhole Rescue Station boards and my 22, was woodlove for woodworking in his working garage in expanded to December anything from when he was small, handelectrocuted with a 2,000 volt current that carved signs to farmhouse tables, home ran through his body and stopped his decor, sliding barn doors or entertainment heart. According to Hillsborough County centers, to name just a few. Everything I Senior Media Relations Strategist Chris make is to order for customers of mine.” Wilkerson, the accident left Stevens cliniMany of Stevens’ pieces of art cally dead for 17 minutes until the team include the fractal burning of designs into arrived to jolt his unresponsive heart with wood. He came up with a special design a defibrillator. to thank the firefighters who saved his life. “The second jolt brought him back,” “The gifts I made for the County firesaid Wilkerson. fighters were small wooden ‘Thin Red HCFR transported Stevens to Tampa Line’ American flags,” said Stevens. “I General Hospital, where he spent 11 wanted to thank them personally and days in the Burn Intensive Care Unit, and since I do woodworking, I felt that would this month he returned to full active duty. be a nice gift.” Three days after the accident, To learn more about Black Axe Stevens’ wife Hannah gave birth to the Designs, search for the business on couple’s son, Morgan, in the same hospiFacebook or Instagram or call 625-7292.
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April 2019
vice, r e S l a i r o m Me y& a D s d i K y Health Moriceh…elle Colesanti, by M com Compiled yobserver. re p s o @ e ll miche
Destiny Church Welcomes New Members
Destiny Church has been a pinnacle in preaching God’s word and has been serving in the community of Ruskin for over 40 years. Continuing the Lord’s ministry, Destiny Church welcomed 19 new members on March 3. Destiny Church is located at 2322 11th Ave. SE in Ruskin. Call 645-3337 or visit http://www.aplace4everyone.org/.
Pinwheels For Prevention
The Children’s Board Family Resource Centers invite you to join in for fun activities throughout April to learn more about preventing child abuse. Call 641-5600 to reserve your spot on Tuesday, April 16 from 3:30-5 p.m. for Pinwheel Arts & Crafts, snacks and goody bags at 3030 E. College Ave. in Ruskin.
Annual Submarine Veterans Memorial Service
Tang Base of the United States
Submarine Veterans Inc. (USSVI) will host its annual Submarine Memorial Service on Saturday, April 20 at 11 a.m. The service will be in front of the Submarine Museum at the Hillsborough County Veterans Memorial Parkon 3602 US Hwy. 301 N. in Tampa. The Service serves to recognize the extreme sacrifice and loss of all U.S. Submarines, both peacetime and wartime. Visitors are welcome to attend and observe this solemn and patriotic service.
weight twice as fast during summer than the school year. As spring turns to summer, Healthy Kids Day is a powerful reminder not to let children idle away their summer days. Instead, the Y wants families to focus on helping children imagine what they can accomplish over the summer. “When a child is healthy, happy and supported, they can make great things happen,” said Senior New members were recently welcomed in to Destiny Church. The Y Wants To Awaken Communications mer camp games, poolside fun, music, Summer Imagination at Free Healthy Director Lalita Llerena. “We believe in demos, free healthy snacks and visual Kids Day® arts to motivate and teach families how to the potential of all children, and we On Saturday, April 27, the Tampa strive to help kids find that potential develop and maintain healthy routines at Metropolitan Area YMCA & YMCA of the within themselves. A child’s develophome throughout the summer months. Suncoast are holding free community ment is never on vacation and Healthy Healthy Kids Day, celebrated at events to inspire more kids to keep their Kids Day is a great opportunity to eduminds and bodies active at the annual cate famiYMCA’s Healthy Kids Day®, the Y’s lies and national initiative to improve health and motivate well-being for kids to kids and famistay lies. active in Healthy spirit, Kids Day is an mind and opportunity to body ignite children’s throughout the summer.” over 1,500 Ys across the country by imaginations so The YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day over one million participants, works to that they can get more kids moving and learning, cre- takes place at various locations imagine what and features fun, active play and eduating habits that they continue all sumthey’ll accomplish cational activities. Each participating mer long. When kids are out of school, this summer. The they can face hurdles that prevent them YMCA has more information on the free free open housactivities and food offered at its specific from reaching their full potential. es, hosted at location on Healthy Kids Day. Visit Research shows that without access to nearly 20 Ys across six Tampa Bay area out-of-school learning activities, kids fall http://www.ymcatampabay.org/findcounties, feature activities such as sumyour-y/. behind academically. Kids also gain
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Local Teacher Selected To Participate In Florida Supreme Court Teacher Institute
Bell Creek Academy law teacher Charles Leadingham attended the Florida Supreme Court Teacher Institute last week. Selected Local Riverview Graduate Is Marine teachers throughout Florida participated With Charlie Company in the Florida Supreme Court Teacher Lance Cpl. Institute held Jonathan Perez, a annually at the rifleman with Florida Charlie Company, Supreme Court. Battalion Landing The Institute, Team, 1st successfully Battalion, 4th implemented for Marines, patrols over two along a tree line decades, produring platoon vides a unique attack training at opportunity for Camp Schwab in Florida middle Okinawa, Japan in Photo by Gunnery Sgt. T. T. Parish/Released and high school Lance Cpl. Jonathan Perez, a rifleman with February. Perez teachers to Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team, 1st graduated from experience the Battalion, 4th Marines. Riverview High state courts School in May 2015 before enlisting in and the administration of justice using a January 2016. During the training, case study approach. Marines with Charlie Company refined The Institute is a hands-on, model their ability “To locate, close with and professional development program impledestroy the enemy by fire and maneuver, mented since 1997. When asked to anaor repel the enemy’s assault by fire and lyze his experience, Leadingham stated, close combat,” the mission of the Marine “This is a once in a lifetime experience Corps rifle squad. Charlie Company that every social studies and law teacher Marines are the airborne raid specialists in Florida should attend if given the with BLT 1/4, the Ground Combat opportunity. Working at the very heart of Element for the 31st Marine the justice system in Florida gives teachExpeditionary Unit. The 31st MEU, the ers a new perspective that they can take Marine Corps’ only continuously forwardback to the classroom and effectively give deployed MEU, provides a flexible and to their students.” lethal force ready to perform a wide range
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at 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. Popcorn and other concession An Educational snacks will be Forum will be held available for on Tuesday, April 16 purchase durfrom 2-4 p.m. at the ing each Sun City Center show. Chamber of General Commerce on staff and Florida Supreme Court Justices admission dealing with loneli- Teachers, pose for a picture at the culmination of the Florida for adults is ness or coping with Supreme Court Teacher Institute. $25 and a traumatic event. Dr. Zachary Isoma is a adult veteran/first responder admission licensed psychologist who obtained his (no rides) is free. General Admission for a bachelor’s degree in psychology from child is $15 and a child of a military/first Florida State University and went on to responder is $10. obtain his Masters and Doctorate For more information or to purchase degrees from Pacific University of tickets, visit https://egyptshrine.org/cirOregon. cus2.php. For information about the Coalition, please call 419-4902 or visit https://menHillsborough Community College talhealthandaging.org.
Forum On Dealing With Loneliness Or Coping With Traumatic Event
2019 Egypt Shrine Circus At Florida Fairgrounds
All families are welcomed to join in for fun, laughter and great fun at the 54th Annual Egypt Shrine Circus, which will take place at the Florida Fairgrounds Thursday, April 11 through Sunday, April 14. For 2019, Dapper Dan, the Circus Leader, is bringing a full carnival of 18 exciting rides, including a Ferris wheel and carousel. Each general admission ticket includes admission to the shows and all the carnival rides. Come and enjoy its friendly clowns, fantastic shows, the carnival rides and all the nostalgia of the circus tent and frolic. Show times are scheduled: Thursday and Friday, April 11 and 12 at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, April 13 at 11:30 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, April 14
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Hillsborough Community College (HCC) commemorates the college’s 50th anniversary with a community-wide event on Saturday, April 27 from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. at Water Works Park in downtown Tampa. Come celebrate five decades of innovation and inspiration as HCC takes over Water Works Park. Experience all that HCC has to offer with live performances, food samplings, touch-a-trucks and much more. The event is free and open to the public. HCC serves over 45,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. The college is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. For more information, visit hccfl.edu.
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April 2019
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Community Roundtable Celebrates 60 Year Honorary Mayor Tradition At Awards Dinner
By Kathy L. Collins
This year, the School, were both Community awarded a $1,000 Roundtable celescholarship. brated 60 years of Vodopich the time-honored thanked all of the tradition of the Honorary Mayors Honorary Mayor of and said, "This Brandon. All past scholarship would Honorary Mayors not be possible withwere honored and out your efforts." recognized at the Kanarek said, "I realScholarship Winners - (Parents) Ines & dinner. The ‘race’ is Mark ized how much kindKanarek, Adriana Kanarek, (Parents) held each June, Cindy & Denver Vodopich, Paige Vodopich ness has an impact and the candidate on people. who raises the most Participating in the money for local noncommunity gives you profits ‘wins.’ a feeling like no In addition to other." honoring fellow citiThe Non-Profit of zens who were the Year was awardnamed Honorary ed to Family Promise Mayor of Brandon, of Hillsborough the Community County. Roundtable awardThis organization Non-Profit of the Year was Family ed scholarships and serves homeless Promise - Lisa Rodriguez, Edwina several awards at families and children. Reddick and Deborah Humphrey. the dinner. They have assisted 720 people to get In announcing the recipients of this back on their feet by providing safe and year's High School Scholarships, Janine sustainable housing as well as long-lastNickerson, President of the Community ing employment. Roundtable, said, "The future of the comTheir motto is ‘Every child deserves a munity is in the hands of the youth. To home.’ celebrate students who support local nonThe Alice B. Tompkins Community profits by volunteering countless hours, Service Award was given to Coach Tony we give out scholarships. This year, for Saladino, who has served the Greater the first time, we are pleased to Brandon community for over 60 years. announce two winners." Saladino said, "I accept this in honor Paige Vodopich, a senior at of my wife and my family. It is always Bloomingdale High School, and Adriana special to receive an award in your comKanarek, a senior at Newsome High munity given by your community."
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
April 2019
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Fresh New Work Spotlights Florida Orchestra Violinist
By Kurt Loft
If a thoroughly modadvance, for this Tampa ern orchestra wants to Bay Times Masterworks make its mark beyond concert. dusting off the busts of Other upcoming Beethoven and Brahms, TFO concerts include: it needs to perform thorRagtime, Blues oughly modern music to and All That Jazz reflect our own time. In (Friday to Sunday, April, TFO tips its hat to April 5-7): Fan favorite the new with Grammytrumpeter Byron nominated composer Stripling showcases Anna Clyne, who makes classics from Duke her Tampa Bay premiere Ellington, Louis Photo courtesy of Matt Dine Armstrong, Cab with The Seamstress, Violinist Sarah Shellman. featuring TFO’s own Calloway and more. Jeff Sarah Shellman on solo violin. Tyzik conducts. Clyne calls The Seamstress an Taste of Vienna (Wednesday & ‘imaginary one-act ballet’ and Thursday, April 24-25): Savor the describes her work as follows: “Alone best of Vienna, with Mozart’s Cosi Fan on the stage, the seamstress is seatTutte Overture, Beethoven’s Fidelio ed, unraveling threads from an antique Overture and Strauss Jr.’s Roses from cloth lay gently over her lap. Lost in the South Waltz. Daniel Black conher thoughts, her mind begins to ducts this morning Coffee concert. meander and her imagination spirals Free coffee and doughnuts. into a series of five tales that range The Music of John Williams from love to despair, and that combine (Saturday, April 27, 2 & 8 pm): memory with fantasy.’’ She drew inspiFeaturing some of the most recognizaration from the short poem, A Coat, by ble scores in cinematic history, includWilliam Butler Yeats. ing Star Wars, Jaws, Harry Potter, Composed in 2015, the 23-minute Schindler’s List and ET. Daniel Black piece is for violin, orchestra and ampli- conducts in the Raymond James Pops fied electronics. Its part of a concert series, with a Saturday matinee. highlighting the influence of women, The Florida Orchestra performs with guest conductor Gemma New regularly at the Straz Center in Tampa, leading TFO in Brahms’ Symphony Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth No. 1 and Schumann’s Manfred Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. The orchesOverture. Concerts are Friday to tra offers affordably priced tickets to a Sunday, April 12-14 in Tampa and St. variety of concerts; prices vary. See Petersburg, with a Sunday matinee. FloridaOrchestra.org or call 727-892Free tickets for kids and teens in 3337 and 800-662-7286.
Della’s Café And Bistro In Brandon Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary
By Tatiana Ortiz
The aroma of of breakfast ground cinnamon items from and maple syrup 7-11 a.m. filled the dining such as the room area of Mexican Della’s Café and Benedict, Bistro in Brandon which costs as items off of its $8.50. This breakfast menu dish conwere being sists of two served. Since poached 1989, Beverly eggs on top Dellagrotta and her husband Anthony Mexican Street Corn Salad. Dellagrotta gained much support throughout the of an English community and now celebrates being in muffin with pico operation for 30 years. de gallo and Della’s Café and Bistro came into much more. For fruition through a suggestion from a dinlunch from 11 ner party she had as the guests felt a.m.-2:30 p.m., impressed by her delicious eclectic dishpeople could order the popular chicken es, and they thought that Beverly should salad among many other great choices. open a restaurant, naming it Della’s Della’s Café and Bistro also provides a Delectables. At a young age, Beverly variety of beverages, desserts and daily always had a passion for the art of prepa- specials, too. Guests can either dine-in, ration and food. Eventually, she opened take-out or utilize a few delivery options Della’s Café and Bistro. In addition, such as Mobile Meals. Those interested Beverly’s mother, Becky, also stepped in could book a private event as well. to assist her daughter from the very “All in all, my fabulous staff makes beginning by preparing the menu and sure that the people get taken care of,” cooking. Currently, Becky still makes all of Beverly said. “To add, once someone the desserts sold at Della’s Café and comes they will become a customer.” Bistro. For more information, visit www.delBeverly shares what makes it unique. lascafebistro.com or its Facebook page “I am always here, and when people www.facebook.com/DellasAfterDark/. It is come they feel like family,” Beverly said. located at 608 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon The 2,400 sq. ft. restaurant can seat and is open Monday through Friday, 7 65 people comfortably. It serves an array a.m.- 2:30 p.m. Call 684-3354.
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Leagues & Summer Fun At The Alley By Libby Hopkins
Summer is just around the corner and parents will be in search of fun activities or camps for their children to be a part of during their summer break. The Alley at SouthShore is one of those fun places for kids and their parents this summer. “The Alley has been a member of the South Shore community since our opening in March 2009,” said Faith Hanaway, Events and Sales Manager at The Alley at South Shore. “I am responsible for FUN at The Alley! Securing and orchestrating birthday parties, field trips, corporate events, family gatherings, networking groups and meetings, banquets and celebrations with our leagues.” The Alley at South Shore is 42,000 sq. ft. of fun that includes 24 bowling lanes, eight lane VIP bowling suites, an arcade packed with nearly 60 new and classic games billiards, a full service restaurant and bar with big screen entertainment and an ice cream parlor. “Yearround, but most heavily, in the summer, we offer very economically priced field trip packages,” Hanaway said. “We are extremely fortunate to have so many local summer camps, public, private, charter and home schools that allow us to host their children.” During the summer months, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, The Alley
offers Summer Cosmic Bowling. “Cosmic Bowling means black lights, colored twirling lights, even a spinning disco ball, accompanied by very upbeat, ‘mom approved’ music,” Hanaway said. “This year, Summer Cosmic starts on Tuesday, June 4 and ends on Wednesday, August 7. It is available on Tuesdays from 10 a.m.–12 Noon and Wednesdays from 1–3 p.m. and costs $8 per person, and includes bowling shoe rental.” The Alley at South Shore also offers league bowling on a year-round basis. “We have leagues for children of all ages, from three to 93,” Hanaway said. “Summer league session will start in May and June. The cost is nominal and the comradery is priceless. Relationships made on our lanes span distance and time.” League information is available at The Alley and on their website. “This summer, I hope to see The Alley, our lanes, restaurant and arcade full of families enjoying all of the wonderful things we have to offer,” Hanaway said. “Our commitment to providing a safe, familyfriendly entertainment is unwavering. I invite everyone to stop in and have some fun with us.” Visit www.thealleyatsouthshore.com or call Hanaway at 672-8353. The Alley at South Shore is located at 10221 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview.
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April 2019
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Lost and Found – The Mysterious Journey Of A Childhood Bible
By Kelly Wise Valdes
My alarm my parents still live in sounded at 6 a.m., Jacksonville. Kim sent and I begrudgingly Teo more pictures to pulled myself out of send to me. Many of bed. This day was the photographs were like any other day– of the notes inside of but this particular the pages of the Bible morning took an that were in my mothunexpected turn. I er’s handwriting. My had a Facebook sister’s name was message from a even written on one of longtime friend, Teo the pages. Leonard. Still, in disbelief, I "Hello, Kelly. I went to find my Bible Kim Patterson found a bible dedicated to just saw this post on my bookshelf and Kelly Wise from 1975 and reconnected with her to return it. from a friend of opened it up. Then I mine named Kim Patterson–and I realized that the Bible on thought you might be my bookshelf was one interested in seeing that my parents gave me it…” Then he sent back when I was a me a copy of the young adult. post: Teo put me in “Last week I'm out touch Kim. We made at a thrift store looking arrangements to for a few outfits for a meet. We immedichild we took under our ately hugged, and wing. There were books with a sign sayI saw my childing Bibles are free! I politely asked if I hood Bible, discould take 2 and they have been in my played on her wall backseat ever since. Yesterday morning in her dining room. for some reason I opened one of them It was very worn, up. Kelly Wise - this Bible was dedicated from either being to you on 8-31-75. Mrs. Sandra Collins well loved or from was your teacher along with Mary Poole. the mysterious ..." journey that evenWell, my maiden name was Wise, tually brought it to but I didn’t know who this Kim lady was a thrift store in Ruskin. and why would my Bible be in a thrift “When I happened to open your shop? My Bible was on the bookshelf in Bible, the verse circled was about serving my room. others,” said Kim. “This is what actually So, I replied to Teo, “Well In 1975 I sparked my interest.” would have been in 3rd grade. But those “Why I posted that day on Facebook people’s names don’t sound familiar to I have no idea,” as she continued telling me at all. I don’t think it’s mine. In 1975, I her story. “I pick up Bibles, but I don't look lived in Jacksonville, Florida and went to through them.” a small Methodist church. Where exactly She graciously gave me back my did she find this Bible?” childhood Bible, although part of me He replied that Kim lives in the wanted her to keep it. I know she was Ruskin area and that she picks up Bibles meant to find it, and I consider it ‘our’ in thrift stores to hand out to people that Bible now. Our paths were meant to she may run across that would need one. cross for a reason. Was this God’s I’ve moved quite a bit in my life but all reminder to me that I had drifted from my my books have moved with me, and I’ve beliefs? Did He want me to know that my never been to a thrift store in Ruskin. Out dusty Bible and my dusty heart needed a of pure curiosity, I asked if he could have good cleaning? Is this God’s way of getKim send him a picture of this mystery ting my attention to remind me that He is Bible. still here and loves me? It could all be a Then Teo sent a picture of the inside series of coincidences, but I believe in the page of the Bible that said, "This Bible is God of miracles. dedicated to Kelly Wise. August 31, 1975. How did my childhood Bible find its Wesconnett United Methodist Church." way to a thrift store in Ruskin? This we It WAS my Bible! That was my child- may never know. But, my childhood Bible hood church! It’s about a mile from where has finally found its way home.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
April 2019
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Manatee Apparel Graphics Is Hot Off The Presses & Ready To Fulfill Orders If you are looking for a local and family-owned apparel graphics business, look no further than Manatee Apparel Graphics. Dennis Frey and his wife own and run Manatee Apparel Graphics and are proud to offer screen printing, embroidery, digital printing (DTG), sublimation, banners, signs, decals, window clings and delivery services to the Tampa Bay area. Frey was born in the Bronx, NY and raised in the Northeast. He moved to Florida in 1983 and relocated to Manatee County in 1993. “I really wanted to have my own business and heard about a small company that might be for sale, Manatee Apparel Graphics,” said Frey. “I was working for a company that manufactured traffic control equipment around the world.” The Freys purchased the business in June 2002. “What I like best about Manatee Apparel is the people we meet and the diverse markets we serve,” said Frey. “We service schools, churches, bands, professional athletes, small businesses, corporations, civic organizations, municipalities, police, fire, military, family reunions, etc. With the equipment and the staff we have, if a customer needs it decorated, we can handle it. “ Screen printing remains the most
By Kelly Wise Valdes
widely known and widely used form of decorating custom apparel. With such a long legacy of fantastic quality workmanship along with outstanding customer service, coupled with a large variety of in-house services, the Freys launched an additional facility in Riverview more than 10 years ago, in January 2009. “We are a one-stop shop within the decorated apparel and promotional product industry,” said Frey. “We do it all inhouse with our machines and our employees, some of who have been with us for over a decade.” In addition, Manatee Apparel Graphics offers E-Commerce and fulfillment services. For customers who want to sell on the internet without the hassle, Manatee Apparel can build and host its website. Currently, Manatee Apparel Graphics is hosting a special for 15 percent off the next order for any customer, new or existing, who mentions this article from now through the end of 2019. People can also follow its Facebook page for other specials offered throughout the year. Call 677-1500 or visit www.manateeapparel.com and view the latest promotional video. Stop by the local office at 6520 U.S. Hwy 301, Suite 102 in Riverview.
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Local Blueberry Cottage Farms Invites Residents For U-Pick Calling all blueberry lovers. Lithia residents Lois Horn-Dias and Jose Dias are opening the gates of Blueberry Cottage Farms this month, offering two acres with approximately 2,000 plants for U-Pick. “We are so excited to welcome our wonderful customers,” said Lois, a teacher in Lakeland. “Jose single-handedly built our farm in his spare time and we love nothing more than seeing others enjoy it.” For 10 years, the farm’s berries were sold wholesale to commercial pickers Driscol and Clear Springs, but in 2016, after hosting charity events open to the public at the farm, the couple decided to transition to U-Pick and have not looked back. “Working the charity events made us realize how much we loved seeing so many others enjoying Jose’s labor of love,” said Lois. Lois posted on a local Facebook page, asking if residents would be interested in coming to U-Pick at their farm, and received an overwhelming response. “In just two days we had almost 500 responses and more than 300 comments, and that was that,” she said. “Jose happily gave up selling commercially and we became a U-Pick farm.”
By Kate Quesada
Blueberry Cottage Farms, which is seven miles and a 15 minute drive from FishHawk, offers three types of berries, Emeralds, Jewels and Millennials, and UPick is $4 a pound or $20 a bucket for cash or $4.20 a pound and $22 a bucket when paying with credit card. Buckets for picking and bags to take the berries home are supplied by the farm, which also has a port-a-potty and running water. An assortment of cold drinks are available for purchase. Lois suggests that visitors wear closed shoes and sunscreen. “We are told by customers that our farm is picturesque, quiet and peaceful,” said Lois. “There is a lot of room between rows and a lot of room to park. But what really sets us apart is that we love our customers. Each day we open for U-Pick, we feel as if we are hosting a party.” Blueberry Cottage Farms is located at 827 Old Welcome Rd. in Lithia. Hours vary as the season progresses, but UPick is typically open from 8:30 a.m. on Saturday mornings and Sunday openings are based on how much fruit is available. Weekday afternoon openings are often announced on the Facebook page. For more information, search for Blueberry Cottage Farm on Facebook or call 3901367.
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
mond Ms. Ed ten
gar Kinder s ll Co in y tar Elemen l Schoo
d By
Sponsore
m Mathnasiu w Of Rivervie
ond Ms. Victoria Edm onth Teacher Of The M
a teacher? Why did you decide to become e I wanted to have a positive aus bec r che tea I decided to be a are the future and it is so impact in children's lives. They and empowered at an early age important that they are loved ple. so they can grow into great peo cher? What is a goal of yours as a tea kind and caring members of be to s kid ch tea to My goals are ten teacher I feel the most society. Working as a kindergar to be good people and the m important thing is to teach the . rest of the academics will follow
prising about you that What would be something sur ? ting students would find interes to any song I hear cs lyri I can usually learn all the er had any pets. after one listen. Also, I have nev spirit? How do you show your school my favorite I show school spirit by wearing leading a board and ay Collins T-shirt every Frid students and re mo h wit t games club to connec vity for kids after provide an extra curricular acti school. Ms. Edm your school ond has been a What is your favorite lunch from teacher 4 years. for cafeteria? our , bar d sala the or es ich dw san k por I love the Cuban us d job making healthy and delicio cafeteria staff does a really goo food. the school. what would you do? If you could make a change to ts in our classrooms or the number of studen I would change the size of the school. ms trying to fit all our kids in our es, we are all busting at the see
why? What is your favorite book and g Harry h my favorite book I would brin wit nd If I was trapped on an Isla . old s get er nev and favorite series Potter because it is one of my you live by? Is there a quote or saying that you have everything you need. When you love what you have
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
The Brandon Ballet Performs Ballets Of The World In Celebration Of Its 25th Anniversary
New K-8 Math & Science Charter School Enrolling Now For August Opening
Join the Brandon ballet and houses the Ballet as it celebrates the world's first profession25th Silver Anniversary al training school and Season with Ballets of ballet company the World. This extraordi(presently known as nary performance will be Paris Opera Ballet and held on Saturday, April 27 Paris Opera Ballet at 7:30 p.m. at Riverview School). This is the High School Theater, first time Le located at 11311 Boyette Consevatorie will be Rd. in Riverview. performed in Central Tickets for Ballets of Florida. the World are $30 for Your final stop adults, $25 for seniors brings you to America and military personnel with a new and original and $20 for children 12 choreography. Artistic You will not want to miss the beauty and wonder of the and under. All tickets are Director Doricha Sales Brandon Ballet's 25th plus tax. The tickets can Anniversary Gala Celebration. provides a stunning linbe purchased at Come take a tour of the world ear piece in www.tututix.com/brandon- with the Brandon Ballet as they Perpendicular perform Ballets of the World. ballet. Alignment. This neoBallets of the World will take you on classical piece is sophisticated yet a journey around the world. First stop is sleekly modern. Russia where you will see Swan Lake Guest teacher Shawn Cusseaux Act 2 which premiered in 1877 by the has also created Bloomed & Plucked, a Bolshoi Ballet and then in 1895 by the contemporary piece performed by the Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg, Russia. Brandon Ballet company members. Swan Lake Act 2 eloquently encapsuAccording to Lyndsey Ladewig, lates romantic ballet with the Swan President of Brandon Ballet, "Its dramatQueen and her flock of white swans, ic musical tone will grab your attention performed by Brandon Ballet's company from the first movement until the final members and professional artists. curtsy. Come and witness movement Next, you will travel to France for Le and structure unlike anything you have Conservatorie, a vaudevillian ballet inter- seen on stage." pretation of the finest dance training Ladewig added, "We are excited for from the 1820s. Staged by guest our 25th Anniversary Spring Gala perteacher and coach Karina Elver in formance." August Bournonville's style, this one act For more information on the version represents not only France, but Brandon Ballet, please visit www.branall of Europe. France is the birthplace of donballet.org or call 684-4282.
Advantage Academy of Hillsborough, Inc. (AAH) and Charter School Associates, Inc. (CSA) announced the opening of Riverview Academy of Math and Science (RAMS), the 10th public charter school opened by the not-for-profit Advantage Academy of Hillsborough in Hillsborough County. AAH and CSA have teamed up previously to open and operate several highly successful charter schools in Hillsborough County. Mike Strader, Project Director for RAMS, stated, “Riverview Academy of Math and Science will follow the template of CSA’s most successful Hillsborough County charter schools: Bell Creek Academy, Bell Creek Academy High School and Valrico Lake Advantage Academy – each have received the state’s highest designation for charter schools, ‘Florida High Performing Charter School’ and ‘Florida School of Excellence’. RAMS will open in August 2019 as a fully equipped, safe and secure charter school catering to the needs of individual students through a rigorous and challenging academic program that is proven to be very successful.” RAMS will open to approximately 550 students in grades K-7 (eighth grade added in 2020-2021). The school’s first phase is 56,000 sq. ft. and will include multiple science rooms, computer rooms, a media center, art lab and special purpose instructional areas in addition to the 40 classrooms. All exterior doors will be controlled via electronic locks and monitored via security cameras. Additional cameras are located throughout the interior and exterior of the school. Visitors will be required to undergo a quick scan of their driver’s licenses to ensure no criminal record, warrant or other possible threat exists. Additional security features are designed into the school and shared with law enforcement personnel. Phase 1 will ultimately accommodate 850 students on the 19-acre campus.
By Kathy L. Collins
NOMINATIONS NEEDED! Your favorite teacher could have their very own spotlight editorial in the Osprey Observer Community Newspaper!
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Phase 2 will be completed by August 2021 and include a gymnasium, baseball field and soccer field. An expansion of the education building during Phase 2 will increase overall student enrollment to 1,150 students, grades K-8. Future plans call for a high school building enabling parents to take advantage of the exceptional educational opportunity at RAMS for students in grades K to 12. Students attending Riverview Academy of Math & Science will have an opportunity to experience and be challenged by a S.T.E.A.M.-based curriculum, the Galileo Middle School program, the Global Studies program and the Cambridge Advanced Studies program. Riverview Academy of Math & Science is a tuition-free, public charter school managed by CSA and governed by Advantage Academy of Hillsborough, Inc. CSA currently operates 23 high quality, Florida-based, K-12 charter schools serving more than 12,500 students. Advantage Academy of Hillsborough, Inc. and Charter School Associates, Inc. offer an experienced, knowledgeable team of educators who are results-oriented with one of the best track records anywhere for successful charter school development and operation. All CSAmanaged schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), Council on Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and AdvancEd. For more information, visit www.RiverviewAcademy.com or call 4126111.
Mary & Martha House Fashion and Home Goods Shop and Make a Difference!
Complete the form below and email your nomination to: teacher@ospreyobserver.com
Teacher Name:
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Clothing and Accessories, Housewares, Furniture, Children’s Toys, and so much more! You can help to sustain our programs by shopping with us and by donating your gently used items.
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BRANDON 329 Pauls Dr. Brandon, Fl. 33511 813-689-9297 PLANT CITY 1907 S. Alexander St. Plant City, Fl. 33566 813-752-6604 rcwcpas.com
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
South Shore Memory: Bahia Beach-Opening Day, April 1959 Sixty years ago, in April 1959, developer Paul B. Dickman opened Bahia Beach at the western end of Shell Point Rd. in Ruskin. Today, Sunset Grill and The Inn at Little Harbor occupy that site and are still popular with tourists and locals. Dickman used dredge and fill techniques to create a quarter-mile section of white, sandy beach on Tampa Bay to support the development and sale of planned homesites. Believing that Bahia Beach could be a major incentive to attract people (and buyers) into the Ruskin area, Dickman opened the beach to the public, free of charge. By May 1959, more than 1,000 people had visited Bahia Beach on each of the previous Sundays, and Dickman announced plans to expand the resort. In July 1959, he revealed new construction for a new building to house a snack bar and toilet facilities envisioning an eventual full-service recreation center. Bahia Beach was formally dedicated on January 10, 1960 with an expanded 1/2 mile of pristine beach and full-service marina. Already popular, the formal opening was a smashing success. Dickman was forced to apologize to the public for massive traffic jams created when hundreds of cars were unable to reach the new facility because of arriving crowds of beachgoers. By opening day, Bahia Beach tout-
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from the Ruskin and East Bay area). Visitors were invited to try their skill in water skiing in the lagoon behind the beach, following the show. A mysterious ‘Invasion from Photo courtesy of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Audano Mars’ was Bahia Beach Building. 1959. Burgert Brothers photograph, courtesy of Mrs. and Mrs. Peter Audano, Brandon, FL also Earliest published picture of Bahia Beach. 1959. ed a miniature announced as leisurely, golf course, a surprise by Tampa area papers, friendly facility although just what that was supposed boating, fishing where food and bathing. to be was never clarified. would be long The beach “Bahia Beach was the largest and remembered. building had best-appointed beach in South County,” Unfortunately, according to local resident Mac Miller. been expanded demand for to a 140-foot, Opening day at Bahia Beach was service on air-conditioned, well remembered by long time day one was full-service Ruskinites and the facility was popular so great, the recreational for about 20 years. By 1980, however, restaurant ran “no trespassing” signs had been posted facility. The out of food, structure includon Bahia Beach by its new owners: bringing the ed a large room Destiny Corporation in Orlando, who restaurant called the had bought the property in April 1980 Bahia Beach. Current manager to “Coral Corral” for further development. In its glory tears! The restaurant, seating 180, was billed as the finest square and round days, however, Bahia Beach was the fully air-conditioned and featured views dancing hall in Florida. The room, with place to go in Ruskin. of Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg in the its 4,000 feet of terrazzo flooring and Charles Nelson Bio distance as a visual treat. perfect acoustics, had been the site of Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in A highlight for visitors on opening a New Year’s party a few days earlier, History from George Mason University and taught as an adjunct instructor at day activities was a colorful water ski the first of many events and dance HCC (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated show presented by the Ruskinclasses in that facility. Bahia Vista with Tampa Bay History Center as a Riverview Ski-Bees (composed mostly Restaurant also formally opened on volunteer docent, researcher and community lecturer, with an emphasis on of high school and college students January 10, 1960 and was billed as a South Hillsborough County history.
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April 2019
Page 43
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Have A Sweet Time At The Kandy Shoppe In Plant City
By Kathy L. Collins
You can get a litknow, “We are still a tle slice of chocolate family-owned business. heaven when you We continue to be visit The Kandy hands-on with the prodShoppe located at ucts and we offer per106 N. Drane St. in sonal, one-on-one historic downtown attention to all of our Plant City. The customers.” Kandy Shoppe is All of the chocolate family-owned and creations at The Kandy operated by Anthony Shoppe are made in and Mandy Keyes, house from the finest brother and sister. ingredients. Everything Mandy is the The Kandy Shoppe in Plant City is a is hand-dipped. The chocolate maker and destination for chocolate lovers. You lemons and strawberwill be transported to chocolate heav- ries are locally sourced. the face of the busien and be glad that you made the trip. ness. Mandy is The quality of the prodfriendly and knowledgeable about all uct is outstanding and everything is things chocolate. She is quite skilled at always fresh. Mandy said, “We turn the making the best chocolate in the area. product at least two times per week. That Virginia Cozy of Valrico said, “The is how quickly it sells.” caramel chocolate bark is the best I have The Kandy Shoppe offers specialty ever tried.” items during the holidays. They will have The Kandy Shoppe was formerly Easter baskets and different varieties of called Neumeister’s Candy Shoppe. chocolate along with the perennial When the former owners wanted to sell favorite chocolate bunnies. The Kandy the shop, they did not have to look far as Shoppe will take special orders. Just be Mandy was working for them. Mandy sure to give them plenty of notice (two to said, “They did not want to sell to somethree weeks). If you are planning a wedone who would take it commercial. They ding, they can create bride and groom wanted someone they could trust to carry and even cake figures from chocolate. on the business.” Mandy said, “I like inventing different Mandy and Anthony have since things for people to enjoy. This is my expanded the delicious products they favorite part of the job.” offer to include delectable treats such as If you have a craving for really good naughty bombs (an outrageous concocchocolate or want a special treat for tion of chocolate and peanut butter), milk someone or an event, then visit The and white chocolate oreos and lemon Kandy Shoppe. It is well worth the trip to cream truffles. downtown Plant City. You can like them Mandy wants the community to on Facebook@TheKandyShoppe.
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Capt. Travis Yaeckel with a nice Redfish safely caught and released in Tampa Bay.
Well, it is now safe to say “Spring has sprung!” Fishing in Tampa Bay has been fantastic. The last few weeks, fishing inshore has been as good as it gets for Snook, Redfish and Trout. We have had some beautiful weather and the fish are responded accordingly. Water temperatures have reached a point where these game fish have evacuated their winter time haunts and are in transition to the flats and backcountry mangrove islands. Bait has still not made a big push inside the bay, but by the next report, it should be everywhere. I have been able to pack the live well full of pilchards (white bait, greenbacks) first thing in the morning before picking up my charters. Once bait is secured, the job has been pretty easy. As in years past, the Snook are eating everything in sight. We haven’t landed a lot of the giant fish, but we have had several days with over 100 to the boat. If you want action, there is nothing better. The average fish is 20-24”. However, we have been catching significantly more 25-27” than in the last few years – which is great. Our biggest this year is 36” with a dozen or so over 30”. If history repeats itself, this month will produce some bigger fish on our trips. In the areas I guide, along the SouthShore, there is a healthy population of juvenile Snook. As spring progresses, the bigger fish will have more opportunities to get to your baits as the larger schools start to break up and live chumming becomes less effective. Redfish have started making an appearance. In the last two weeks, we have located some small schools that,
if targeted properly, can be very cooperative. Like the Snook, they are going crazy for live pilchards. On the lower tides, we have been catching them on the flats – concentrating on the sandy areas ‘potholes’. On the higher tides, look for the Reds to be under the mangroves. On the flats, we have been using a large live pilchard under a Cajun Thunder Popping Cork and chumming the area heavily at times to corral them into a small area we are fishing. The average fish has been 2426” with several 30”+ fish in the mix. Remember to keep a fresh leader after catching Snook. The Reds will test your tackle for sure. Spotted Sea Trout are still going strong. I expect the bite to continue through spring, but the water temperature and bait migration will play a big part in the areas we will find them. We have started to catch good numbers on the shallow grass flats. As the water temperature increases, the larger aggregations of fish will move to deeper water. The larger ‘gator’ trout can be found roaming the sandbars mixed in with the Mullet and Redfish. Remember that all Trout over 20” must be released as per the FWC in our area until at least Friday, May 10, 2019. Captain Travis Yaeckel is a native resident of the SouthShore area and charters full time for Redfish, Snook, Trout, and Tarpon. He is owner and operator of Instinct Fishing Co., based out of lower Tampa Bay. To book a charter, call 830-FISH or visit www.fishbyinstinct.com. Catch him on Tampa Fishing Outfitters Radio Show on Sunday mornings from 89 a.m. at 1040 a.m. Sports Talk the Team.
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Page 44
Courtesy Toyota Unveils New $30 Million State-Of-The-Art Dealership
By Michelle Caceres
After 21 means less time months and a $30 waiting for our cusmillion investment, tomers,” said Courtesy Toyota of Schepise. “It’s a Brandon, an win-win.” Asbury Automotive Nobody was Group, Inc. compamore impressed ny, celebrated the with the work area grand reopening of than assistant its showroom locatshop foreman ed at 9210 E. Terrence Wilson. A Adamo Dr. The 20-year employee new 91,000 sq. ft. at Courtesy showroom is locat- Courtesy Toyota of Brandon has a new facili- Toyota, he said the ed next door to its ty and improved experience for its customers. changes to the former facility. work environment have increased effiTo mark the occasion, executives ciency and morale. from Southeast Toyota Distributors and Love Toyotas but not the in-showAsbury Automotive Group joined local room experience? Courtesy Toyota has employees to celebrate the opening of rolled out the Push Start online car-buythe state-of-the-art building with a ribbon- ing platform, which provides customers a cutting ceremony that included speeches car-buying experience that allows them by Courtesy Toyota of Brandon general to select the new or used car they want manager Mike Schepise, Asbury CEO to purchase, trade in their old vehicle, David Hult and Southeast Toyota select their lender and terms, sign the Distributors vice president of sales and paperwork using DocuSign and even operations Jim McEachern. have the new purchase delivered to their “These changes are geared toward home. “Our employees are passionate enhancing the customer’s overall experiabout our brand and serving our cusence,” said Schepise. tomers and that is what makes the differImprovements have also been made ence,” said Holt. to employee work areas. Courtesy Toyota of Brandon’s sales Sixty-three air-conditioned technician department is open Monday-Friday 9 bays mean customer vehicles can be a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and serviced more quickly. The parts departSunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Its service department was constructed closer to the servment is open Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-7 ice areas where technicians can easily p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and access needed materials. Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. “These changes mean our employVisit www.courtesytoyota.com or call ees can work more efficiently and that 866-429-6135.
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By Kate Quesada
A group of and guests Valrico residents enjoyed a made a very special Valentine’s Daycommitment last themed reception month. In honor of with drinks, dinner Valentine’s Day, and dessert. seven couples from Married for 73 the Featherock manyears, Elvis and ufactured home Mary Lou have community renewed advice for couples their wedding vows who have not in the community’s been together for club house. as long. According to RJ “I think the Seven couples living in Valrico’s Featherock success of our Bruce, Associate Community renewed their wedding vows in with Reputation marriage is, he a joint ceremony last month. Partners Communications, the seven lets me be me and I let him be him,” couples had been married a combined said Mary Lou. “I knew when I was 10 343 years when they renewed their years old that he was the man I was vows. going to marry.” “The couples reaffirmed their comRobert and Carol, who celebrated mitment to one another, honored the their 50th anniversary with the renewal years of marriage they already shared also shared their secrets to marriage and raised a glass to their futures togeth- success. er,” said Bruce. “People ask us, ‘How do you stay The couples who participated were together that long?,’” said Carol. “He’s Robert and Margaret Hoinkis, who my best friend.” have been married for 58 years; “She’s right here and its the same Robert and Carol Zavacki, who celething the other way,” said Robert. brated their 50th anniversary the day “That’s the way it’s been for 50 years.” of the renewal; Elvis and Mary Lou Featherock is a 55 and older comWilson, who have been married for 73 munity with more than 900 residents. years; Samuel and Myrian Hernandez, Amenities include a clubhouse with bilwho have celebrated 21 years of marliards and a game room, a library, riage; Bernie and Amy Robart, who shuffleboard and tennis courts and a married 40 years ago; Horst and swimming pool. Gudrun Odparlik, who have been marThe community is located at 2200 ried for 63 years and Diane and Issac S.R. 60 E. in Valrico. For information, Yates, who are celebrating 38 years of visit www.mymhcommunity.com/commarriage. munities/Florida/Featherock or call After the ceremony, the couples 855-678-5694.
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
SOUTHSHORE’S BEST HOMES
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PRIVATE OASIS ON 0.43 ACRES! 3/2/2 + pool home that has great access to I-75! One owner family & built in 2001, this home offers volume ceilings, wood-burning fireplace, tile floors throughout & spacious kitchen with lots of cabinet & counter space! Outside offers screened lanai with ceiling fans! $245,000
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Page 46
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Sports 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Volume 17, Issue 4
Connection By Nick Nahas and Photos courtesy of Tampa MX
Tampa MX Hosts 2019 Pro Circuit Open Motorcycle Race With $10,000 In Cash Prizes enjoy watching these guys battle it The fourth annual Pro Circuit out for the chance to take home a Open, presented by Kawasaki, was good chunk of cash,” said Mike held at Tampa MX, located at 6334 Floyd, event promoter and co-owner Burts Rd., on March 7. of Tampa MX. The custom-designed, state-ofAmateur competitors as young the-art track, which also plays host to as four also competed for continmany exciting sports events such as gency, including $1,000 to the winner amateur motocross racing and mud in the Advanced Women Open runs, is located in the heart of the class, $1,750 going to the 9 to 16Tampa Bay area and is easily accesyear-old winner of the 85cc-112cc sible from major highways. It showclass and a $1,000 Hollywood cased top professional off-road Racing Pro Holeshot Award for the motorcycle racers, including Tampa’s First place winner Mike Alessi drifts on the turn. The first turn of the track. professional who made it first to own Kyle Chisholm, who comthe first turn. peted in front of thousands of Since 2015, the Pro Circuit spectators for a cash prize. Open has been Florida’s only Tampa’s Pro Circuit Open feaone-off event to kick off Daytona tured $10,000 in prize money Bike Week. The event has with Mike Alessi taking home gained momentum for its boost the first place prize of $4,000, to the local community and garTyler Bowers won second place nered a stellar reputation with and $2,500 and Cole Thompson strong support from the motorcywon third place and $1,500. cle racing industry. This year Additional prize money was paid again feature a Supercross-style back to 10th place. Hayden Mellross taking a sharp turn. Drone view of the racetrack. main event format and followed The event was held just on March 9. “We love giving a successful third-annual event, test since it’s so easy for days prior to the prestigious running of top athletes a high-quality which drew nearly 2,000 spectators and them to travel from Daytona the Daytona Monster Energy Supercross Martin Davalos flies through race track to come out and the air. families from surrounding areas. to Tampa. Fans always
April 2019
Page 47
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
2nd Annual Praise In The Park Will Bring Music, Fun And The Community
By Kathy L. Collins
The second said, “If you like annual Praise in the music, you will get all Park will take place kinds of music in a on Saturday, April 13 Christian form at beginning at 3 p.m. Praise in the Park.” and lasting until 9 Trunzo added, “Last p.m. This is a free, year was an overChristian faith event, whelming success. which features live We are preparing for musical performancanother great day.” es, award winning Praise in the Park will food trucks, puppets, take place rain or The Second Annual Praise in the Park, face painting, stilt shine. Kelly said, “It is which promises to be bigger than better than last year, will take place in going to be awesome walkers and worldPlant City (from the Robert W. famous Plant City because of the Willaford Railroad Museum all the way strawberries. groups coming to Evers St.) on Saturday, April 13 from 3 to 9 p.m. Be a part of what was together.” Proceeds from the deemed one of the three best event will be donated The Common community events in 2018. to the Plant City Ground Movement is Pregnancy Center. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which offers This year, organizers, Frank and Campus Encourager Program in local Wenda Trunzo (owners of Krazy Kup, a schools. They place pastors in schools unique coffee house located in Plant to assist principals, staff and teachers. City) and Pastor Joe Kelly of The They offer a CGM Mass Choir Program, Common Ground Movement, have which unites high school students from joined forces to bring the community this public, private and charter schools to family friendly, fun event. sing in one choir. The Common Ground Last year’s Praise in the Park was Movement also has a tutoring program selected by the Plant City Chamber of which uses high school students to proCommerce as one of the three best vide tutoring in exchange for service community events. This year’s event hours. Finally, local youth are brought promises to be bigger and better with together for CGM Nights of Joy Services more live acts and an expanded venue. where they highlight youth bands, drama The main stage will be at the Robert W. teams, dance teams, singers and speakWillaford Railroad Museum on Palmer ers. Ave. Other stages will be located at If you are interested in becoming a areas from Palmer Ave. all the way to sponsor, please contact Trunzo at 789Evers St. 4227. If you would like to have a vendor There will be a wide genre of music spot for $50, please contact Kelly at from soul to gospel rock. Frank Trunzo 344-7361.
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Page 48
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach
April 2019
Volume 17, Issue 4
Ph: 657-2418
53-61
Premier Radiation Oncology Ribbon-Cutting
Premier Radiation Oncology announced the exciting arrival of the newest radiation delivery equipment in the nation with its Halcyon linear accelerator built by Varian. As a radiation oncology clinic, Premier uses X-Rays to cures cancer. This is the most precise machine in operation. The team, led by Dr. Alexander Engelman, the #1 Radiation Oncologist in the Tampa area as peer-nominated in Tampa Magazine, and staff of nurses, physicists, dosimetrists, and radiation therapists demonstrated not only a commitment to the latest in technologic advancement but also a commitment to supporting patients and families throughout their journey to healing. The center offers patients and families nutritional guidance, alternative and complementary treatment recommendations, and encourages engagement with faith, family, and community. Through its partnership with a local sustainability advising group, ShiftCo, all cancer treatments for 2019 will be carbon-neutral. To the center's knowledge, no other cancer center in the nation can claim to have zero-footprint cancer therapy. It is located at 3140 S. Falkenburg Rd in Riverview. Call 734-8911.
services for more than 75 years. Naffco & Interiors offer great customer service experience from its design consultants on the showroom floor to the installation craftsLeaven Brewing Brings Home European Wax Center men in your Gold Medal For ‘Cheeky home. Highly Blonde’ Ale performing start. skilled and trained European Jillian Lynch and husband, craftsmen, who Wax Center has KJ Lynch, the owners of Leaven are professional set the industry Brewing in Riverview, recently Jillian and KJ Lynch are the owners and courteous, are standard. Many were the recipients of a gold of Leaven Brewing in Riverview. prepared to meet all your interior remodel Brandon resimedal for its ‘Cheeky Blonde’ Ale. Their Cheeky Blonde Ale recently won a Gold Medal in a ‘Best Florida and decorating needs. dents have It was won at Tampa Bay Beer Beer’ competition. There are three showrooms in South been visiting Week’s annual ‘Best Florida Tampa, Carrollwood and Brandon. The the downtown center for years, enjoying Beer’ competition. Brandon location is at 1920 W. Brandon the benefit of 15 minute services close to ‘Cheeky Blonde’ was one of the first Blvd. their offices. craft beers we introduced to our tap room Hours are Monday-Friday from 10 Visit www.waxcenter.com for more in Riverview.” a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 information. Leaven Brewing is located at 11238 p.m. and Sunday from Boyette Rd. in Riverview. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Family-Owned Naffco
European Wax Center To Open In Brandon
European Wax Center, the nation’s leading provider of waxing and brow services, is expanding to Brandon Centre South, 1933 W. Lumsden Rd., next to Home Goods. Several well-experienced members of the staff from the Tampa location will transfer to see this new center off to a top
Flooring & Interiors Has Served The Area Since 1937
Family-owned and operated Naffco Flooring & Interiors has been serving homes in the Tampa Bay area with flooring, shutters, blinds and cabinetry needs since 1937. It has been providing top-quality products and
Flagship Sailing School Offers Training Course Around Greek Islands
Flagship Sailing School is offering a training cruise in the Ionian Sea (Greece) from Saturday, May
Continued on Next Page
Page 50
Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Business Column Continued.............
By Michelle Colesanti
25-Saturday, June 1 on a 2013 BAVARIA Cruiser 45 with four cabins. The cruise will start from the Old Fortress of Corfu; one of the finest destinations in the Mediterranean with a plan to visit a different place every day, stopping for swimming in protected bays and beaches. Most evenings will be docked ashore, or day in anchor, around 7 p.m. The price for the cruise is $1,200/person based for double occupancy/cabin and $1,800/person for single occupancy/cabin. The policy regarding cabin assignment is first to book, first to choose. ASA certifications are $395/certification. For more information, email office@flagshipsailing.com or call George ‘Nordie’ Norwood cell at 760-7803. Visit http://flagshipsailing.com/.
Get Your Philly Pretzels In Riverview
John and Michele Maffei recently opened Tampa Bay’s first Philly Pretzel Factory in Riverview offering fresh baked pretzels with all types of pretzels and dips for all tastes. Enjoy fresh hot soft pretzels, pretzel dogs, cheese steaks, cinnamon pretzels and party trays. The Maffei’s, who are originally from Philly, have always dreamed
about opening their own location and are spearheading the company’s development in Tampa. Hours are Monday and Tuesday 10:30 a.m.7 p.m., Wednesday to Saturday 10:30-8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Philly Pretzel Factory is located at 11244 Boyette Rd.
Medi-Weightloss® Can Help You Achieve A Healthy Weight
The Medi-Weightloss® Program is not just another diet, it is a Physician-Supervised and clinically-proven approach that helps patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The professionals focus on preventive medicine. After medical tests and in-depth consultation with each patient, the medical staff creates an individualized and comprehensive plan for each patient. Preventative care services are offered including screening and counseling. Medi-Weightloss® is located at 203 W. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. Call 877-MED-LOSS or visit www.mediweightloss.com.
MPact Services Inc. Offers Electronic Recycling & Disposal
Donna and Matt McCarty are the owners of MPact
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given to detail every time ClearView is on the job. Call 814-207-7018 or text for your free estimate.
Florida Home Partnership Rolls Out New Corporate Logo
Florida Home Partnership (FHP) has brought a unique homeownership program to Hillsborough and Pasco Counties. The USDA Self-help Homeownership Program has enabled low- and moderate-income families to realize the dream of homeownership. A sweat equity program where eligible homebuyers must contribute a minimum of 600 hours towards building their Benjamin Limmer Is New HART CEO homes and the homes of their neighbors, Benjamin Limmer, FHP has assisted over 900 families AICP, new CEO of the obtain housing through Self-help, rehab Hillsborough Area and rental apartments. Regional Transit The nonprofit agency announced a Authority (HART), hosted major rebranding to reflect the company’s listening sessions on his evolution in the affordable housing arena. first official day at the helm, March 25. Mike Morina, executive director of FHP, "I have found that the teams I have said, “The housing market is changing as had the pleasure of leading often have new technologies increase energy effithe answers to the challenges that every ciency and sustainability of homes. We organization faces." said Mr. Limmer, "My seek to take advantage of these trends commitment to the and diversify our product HART team and the offerings even further, so community we serve changing our corporate is simple: to listen logo is timely and appropriand learn. Together, ate.” we will transform Morina stated, “We HART into the transhad a committee of FHP portation network of employees who diligently the future." worked with a talented Visit designer [Dianna Vannatta Clearview Window Cleaning Service www.gohart.org/. of Dianna Designs] over the course of several months to produce the Clearview Window Cleaning Service final design.” Call 672-7860 or email ClearView Window Cleaning info@flhome.org. Services focus on superior cleaning of interior and exterior windows, including Coastal Catering & Coastal Palms screens, for residential and commercial Even Studio Expands To Riverview properties. Owner Ted Plan your next special Manna believes event or wedding at keeping your winCoastal Catering & dows and frames Coastal Palms Event clean on a regular Studio, a brand new event basis will prolong the space and catering servlife of your windows ice, which has opened in and brighten your Riverview. view and attitude. The owners are He offers free estiSandra Perrino and Chuck mates, works in a and Cheryl Saxe, who professional manner work together to provide and is licensed and insured. excellent food and quality servNo contract is required. ice at a great price. ClearView is known for It is located at 9409 and superior customer service, 9429 Hwy 301 S. For more reliability and safety. You will information, visit coastalcaternotice the professional difingflorida.com or call 407ference and attention that is 6530.
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April 2019
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Winthrop Arts To Host Silent Disco To Support The Arts This April
By Kathy L. Collins
Winthrop called the Winthrop Arts will hold its Arts Mobile Art first fundraising Factory. This is a event this April. program that proSilent Disco will vides free art classbe held on es to children who Saturday, April live in Wimauma 13 from 8 to 11 and Ruskin. What p.m. at The makes the Barn in Winthrop Arts Winthrop Arts will hold Silent Disco on Saturday, Mobile Art Factory Winthrop, April 13 at The Barn at Winthrop. located at unique is that art 11349 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. instruction is taken to the children. Tickets start at $30. Supply is limited. Currently, Winthrop Arts partners with Tickets to this 21 and older event can be Wimauma Elementary and Hispanic purchased at Eventbrite and through the Services Council in Wimauma to offer the Winthrop Arts website at free art classes. www.winthroparts.org. Hamilton said, “Winthrop Arts is a Silent Disco requires dancers to wear community-based arts organization that wireless headsets that pick up music has evolved over time from simply preinstead of a sound system. This allows senting an annual arts festival to a fully attendees to choose from three DJ stafunctioning community arts organization. tions at the switch of a button. Listeners We offer fine arts classes at the Art will only hear the music they selected Factory in Riverview for both adults and being played on their headset. This children. Each summer, we offer several makes for a personalized and fun experione-week summer camps. The Mobile Art ence. Factory is our outreach program, and of In addition to the music, there will be course we continue to present the signaa cash bar and food trucks. ture Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Matthew Hamilton, President of the Market.” Winthrop Arts Board of Visionaries said, The 11th Annual Winthrop Arts “In deciding on what should be our first Festival and Market will be held on fundraiser, we wanted to bring a fun Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March event that has been taking place in down- 31 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in Winthrop town Tampa out to East Hillsborough Common, located behind Boca and County.” Organizations such as the Ciccio’s in beautiful Winthrop in Tampa Museum of Art and the Florida Riverview. Aquarium have had similar events. For information on Silent Disco and Proceeds from Silent Disco will help all that Winthrop Arts has to offer, visit fund a Winthrop Arts outreach program www.winthroparts.org or call 758-5161.
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2019 Summer Camps Offer Many Options To Keep Active & Engaged It’s that time of the year when parents are beginning to wonder how they will keep the kids busy during the dog days of summer. What can you do to keep the kids entertained? Where can they go to try new things, learn how to swim, meet new friends and have great fun? There are many options to choose from locally that will fit the bill. The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull out section. Maybe your kids would like to spend the summer ‘horsing around.’ R&R Ranch offers that opportunity, and not just to learn to horseback ride, but also about the care of the horses. At Music Showcase, music and theatre take the stage and so can your child. Musicals such as Willy Wonka and Frozen Jr. will be offered, and your child can hold starring roles in these and other popular musicals offered from the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up. For your actor or musician, don’t forget to also check out Firehouse Cultural Center and Patel
Conservatory, which also offer fun and exciting ideas. The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps which mix fun along with great learning experiences. With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone. Mathnasium offers ways to keep your student’s math skills from getting rusty in a fun environment. Do you have a child interested in cooking? Check out Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Cooking Camps for Kids through Teens. With weekly themes utilizing agespecific activities and field trips that make BSAC unique, your kids will enjoy every moment of summer camp. Specialty camps for Baseball (Ostingers), Legos (Bricks4Kidz), Art (Center Place) and Tennis (FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club) also offer great opportunities. For dates, prices and registration information on these and more, turn the page and enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Did we miss one? Let us know by emailing subject line ‘Summer Camp’ to michelle@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add to our full listing online.
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Spots Filling Fast For Outdoor Adventure At Tampa YMCA Summer Camp
Staff Report
This is the year to experience YMCA Summer Camp. Registration is now open for the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA’s newly enhanced summer camp program. Y Summer Camp 2019 offers children a day camp curriculum full of fun, educational activities. Activity specialists will lead campers through various experiences each day including swimming, science, high ropes, outdoor education, nature encounters,
Enjoy Archery and many other activities this summer at YMCA Summer Camp. The camp offerings vary by location.
horseback riding, canoeing, visual arts and more. The fun and unique experiences give Y campers an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime. In Y Summer Camp, kids are in a welcoming environment where they can belong, build relationships, develop character and discover their potential. New for 2019, parents now have the option to add on before- and after-care activities which include swimming, horseback riding, sports and high ropes. There are also various specialty camps where campers will be immersed in their selected specialty in addition to enjoying traditional camp fun. Activities and specialty options vary by location.
Once again, Hillsborough County Public Schools has committed to providing free breakfast and lunch as part of the Summer Food Program. The program runs from Monday, June 3 – Friday, August 2 and is open to all kids in the community ages 18 and under, including Y campers. To find out the time frames when free breakfast and lunch are available, contact your local Y. Visit https://www.tampaymca.org/locations for locations. Spots are filling fast at 14 locations across Hillsborough and East Pasco counties, including four sites for the Y’s The First Tee of Tampa Bay program. (www.thefirstteetampabay.org/informationsummer-camps/). Experience summer camp locally at: Campo Family YMCA in Valrico (6841371), North Brandon Family YMCA (685-5402), Spurlino Family YMCA at Big Bend Rd. in Riverview (228-9622) and YMCA Camp Cristina in Riverview (6778400). To ensure your kids stay engaged socially, physically and academically throughout the summer, register today at www.tampaymca.org/letscamp.
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Registration Open For Patel Conservatory Summer Camps And Classes
By Leslie Farrell
tions will be held Thursday, March 28, Thursday, April 18 and Friday, May 17. Dancers age seven and older will attend placement classes to determine which classes are most appropriate. Those younger than seven are not required to attend a placement class. Registration for auditions is required by visiting www.strazcenter.org/auditions or by calling 222-1040. Nearly $200,000 in scholRegistration is arships will be awarded for now open for Patel Patel Conservatory camps Conservatory dance, and classes this summer. music and theater Scholarship applications are summer camps and available online at www.strazclasses, which begin center.org/financialaid; the prithe week of Monday, Patel Conservatory is now regis- ority deadline is June 3. tering for its summer camps and Monday, April 8. Nearly 70 camps classes. Some will require auditions. The accredited Patel and classes are offered, most with performance opportuni- Conservatory offers classes in dance, music and theater for students of all ages ties, for students of all ages and abilities. Camps and classes vary from jazz dance and experience levels. Each year, the to jazz music, from Shakespeare to Annie Patel Conservatory and the Straz Center’s arts education programs enrich to Comedy on Broadway, and from the lives of more than 50,000 students in Ukelele Camp to Youth Opera Camp. A our classrooms, on our stages and complete line up is online at www.patelthrough the community. conservatory.org. Events, days, dates, times and prices Some summer camps and classes, are subject to change without notice. which are held for all ages and abilities, Patel Conservatory is located at the require auditions. Music auditions will be Straz Center for the Performing Arts, held Saturday, March 30, Saturday, April 1010 N. W.C. Macinnes Pl. in Tampa. 13 and Tuesday, May 21. Theater audi-
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Game Show Themes Add Up To Summer Camp Fun At 2019 Camp BSAC
Staff Report
BSAC offers a game show themed summer experience for campers this year.
BSAC Campers can once again look forward to exciting themed weeks of fun camp experiences. BSAC’s ‘Who’s Got Game’ theme is based around game shows. Have you always wanted to be a contestant in your favorite TV game show? Now you can. Each themed week runs from Monday to Friday (except week 5 when there is no camp on the 4th of July). Week 1: SURVIVOR - June 3 – June 7; Week 2: ESCAPE ROOM - June 10 – June 14; Week 3: THE AMAZING RACE - June 17 – June 21; Week 4: FEAR FACTOR - June 18 – June 22; Week 5: MINUTE TO WIN IT - July 1 – July 5 *Closed July 4th; Week 6: DOUBLE DARE - July 8 – July 12; Week 7: WIN, LOSE, DRAW - July 15 – July 19; Week
8: WIPE OUT - July 22 – July 26; Week 9: FAMILY FEUD - July 29 – August 2 and Week 10: THE REUNION SHOW - August 5 – August 9. Registration Fees are $45 per child or $85 per family. It includes one camp T-shirt and one backpack per camper. The cost for camp per child is $150 full a full day (7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.); $90 week for half day – either 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 1 p.m.6:30 p.m. If you want to bring your child for drop in days, the cost is $40 for the day from 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Drop in days must be selected and paid in advance to reserve and are non-refundable. Field trips are offered throughout the season at extra cost and are optional. A Summer Camp Open House will be held on Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Get a preview of the summer experience: a day in the life of a camper. Be a contestant on your favorite TV game shows. You will tour BSAC, swim and play games in the pool, meet the summer camp mentors, have a family fun day with summer camp games and activities. There will be a DJ and vendors. BSA is located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. For more information, call 689-0908 or visit www.mybsacorg.
Enjoy The Summer Scene 2019 At The Florida Academy of Performing Arts
Family-Friendly Summer Camp Expo
Full and half day camps are available for kids ages 5 and up at The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase. Musical Theatre productions of Willy Wonka (June 3-14), Once Upon A Mattress (June 10-21), Frozen Jr. (June 17-28), The Wizard of Oz Jr. (July 8-19), Once on This Island (July 15-26), and The Lion King Jr. (July 22-August 2) will all take place this summer for ages 5 and up. Campers will participate in various classes each day that are customized to fit their appropriate age groups and will experience, music, acting, singing, dance, creative art, rock camp and more. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 490-2787 or visit faopa.org.
The FamilyFriendly Summer Camp Expo (Brandon Edition) will take place on Saturday, April 6 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Hillsborough Community College, 10451 Nancy Watkins Dr. in Tampa. There will be fun for the entire family to learn about summer camps being offered in Brandon, Tampa, Riverview, Lithia/FishHawk, Valrico, Southshore and surrounding areas. Learn about VBS programs as well as STEM, Arts & Crafts, Dance, Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Sports, Sewing & more. The first 250 families get a giveaway bag with goodies. Kids will enjoy bounce houses, face painting, free crafts, a dodge ball arena, princesses and superheroes. Enjoy Easter fun with a Scavenger Hunt, photos with the Easter Bunny and a petting zoo. Register for free tickets at https://familyfriendlytampabay.com/.
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Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.
Session 1 June 3-7 (M-F)
Session 2 July 8-12 (M-F)
Session 3 July 29-Aug 2 (M-F)
Location:
M-W Ostingers Academy • 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Road Th-F Field for games and other activities Space is Limited Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs Register Early Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to hold your spot! Cost: $180/camper **(Second Child $130) **Multi week discounts
Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:
Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com
SUMMER CAMP 2019 Award Winning STEM Camps Since 2005 Where Bright & Creative Kids Play to Learn
813-444-2267 | techplayzone@gmail.com
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Bricks 4 Kidz Offers LEGO® Summer Camps
Bricks 4 Kidz is back with awesome LEGO® Summer Camps being offered all over the Brandon, Riverview and Valrico areas. Join in for a different theme each week such as Fortnite, Pokemon, Star Wars, Minecraft and much more. Each week campers will be building signature Bricks 4 Kidz robotic LEGO® models, very popular LEGO® mosaics and 3D LEGO® sculptures, as well as playing fun games and creating arts and crafts projects they will get to take home. At the end of each week, every camper will get to take home their very own LEGO® minifigure. Each day and week will be a brand new LEGO® adventure you won’t want to miss! The schedule for the camps being offered at nearby locations is as follows:
We Rock The Spectrum Monday to Friday, June 10–14: LEGO® Gamer’s World July 1 – July 5: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup (Single Day Pricing: No July 4 Camp) Monday to Thursday,
July 15– July 18: LEGO® STAR WARS/MINECRAFT Mashup - (Four Day Pricing).
The Venue In Riverview Monday to Friday, June 17– June 21: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup Monday to Friday, August 5 -
August 9: Bricks 4 Girls LEGO® Camp with Girls With Confidence FishHawk Aquatic Center Monday to Friday, June 3 – June 7: LEGO® Gamer’s World Monday to Friday, July 8 – July 12: LEGO® STAR WARS/MINECRAFT Mashup Monday to Friday, August 5 August 9: LEGO® Summer Theme Mashup Sign up at www.bricks4kidz.com/floridatampa or call 545-4282.
Center Place Fine Arts Offer Summer Art Camp To Brighten The Day
Who knew that art could be so much fun? This summer, register your 7-13 year old to discover their love of painting, drawing, pottery and more. Classes are offered Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include Art Mural, Animal Paintings, Pencil Drawings Cruise Around the World, West & Wild Canvases, Ceramic Sculpture, Recycled Art, Landscape Drawings, Paper Sculptures, Space Art, Mixed Media and more. Center Place is
located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. For more information or to register, visit www.centerplacebrandon.org or call 685-8888.
Fun And Education Spins Throughout The Summer At Kids ‘R’ Kids
Kids ‘R’ Kids is excited to launch a new twist on camp where kids are redefining summer and turning ordinary days into the extraordinary. Just as fragments inside a kaleidoscope fuse together to captivate us with a new perspective, Kaleidoscope 360° will spin this summer into a unique dimension of discovery, fun and friendships through various weekly themes. This summer promises a well-supervised, engaging and enriching camp for preschool and elementary aged children. Extended hours, meals/snacks, weekly field trips, sports and more are
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being offered. Summer camp is offered at both Kids ‘R’ Kids locations: Circa FishHawk, 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. (next to Stowers Elementary and Mosaic). Visit www.KRKCirca.com or call 654-7000 and also at 4321 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico (across from Lithia Springs Elementary). Visit www.KRKValrico.com or call 6576200.
Learn Baseball From The Pros At Ostingers Baseball Academy Summer Camp
Ostingers Baseball Academy will hold its baseball camp this summer to give your child a better understanding of the game of baseball, through instruction, drills and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp. Ostingers staff is made up of all former professional players who instruct, teaching the game from the ground up. The camp is not a full day
KIDS
Summer Camps (Ages 6-11) 10:30am - 1:00pm
camp with video games and indoor activities. Jim Osting is a baseball instructor with 12 years of professional baseball playing experience including two years of Major League Experience (Padres and Brewers). Patrick Ryan is a baseball instructor with eight years professional pitching experience. Kris Wilken is the Head Baseball Coach at Bloomingdale High School and has six years of professional playing experience. College and high school players trained by Ostingers Baseball Academy will assist your child throughout their camp experience. Additional help is provided from Ostinger players current and past to make the campers experience ‘one of a kind.’ With the instructors and the staff, the ratio per camper is around 6:1.
June 3-6 June 10-13 June 17-20 June 24-27 July 8-11 July 15-18 July 22-25 July 29-Aug 1 Aug 5-8
TWEEN’S & TEENS
Summer Camps (Ages 11-15) 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Brandon’s Big Green “EggQuarters”
This ratio allows for added reps for each player and helps to break up the groups in age appropriate format. Camp weeks run Monday to Friday, June 37, July 8-12 and July 29-August 2. Camps run half days from 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Camps are held Monday to Wednesday at Ostingers Baseball Academy, 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and Thursday and Friday at the FishHawk Sports Complex fields located at 16120 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia (for games and other activities). The cost is $180 (sibling discounts available). For more information or to register, call 737-3000 or visit www.OstingBaseball.com.
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Is Cooking Up Some Summer Fun
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Summer Camps are a great way to learn new skills in the kitchen, create tasty recipes, and meet lots of new friends. The only things you need to be prepared are closed toe shoes
and a restraint for shoulder length hair. All of the ingredients, tools and even the fun are included. Students are taught how to properly use real kitchen tools, knives and appliances safely under adult supervision. Students come away with the confidence to prepare dishes that are age appropriate and tasty. The goal is to encourage your child to be a help in the kitchen and to have fun while building a lifetime of good skills. Cooking Camps for kids ages 6-11 will take place from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. daily and the tween’s and teen’s Summer Camps, ages 11-15 will take place from 2-4 p.m. Camps will take place weekly for four days and run from Monday, June 3 through Thursday, August 2. Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is located at Brandon Crossroads, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit www.rollingpinonline.com.
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Hoop It Up At FishHawk Fellowship’s Basketball Camp
Take your game to the next level. Develop your skills and have fun doing it. Work daily to improve every player’s technical abilities. Camp is suitable for everyone from beginners to elite players. FishHawk Fellowship Church is partnering with Alpha & Omega Sports, Inc. Its staff designs intense, fun training sessions. Camp will run Monday, June 24 to Friday, June 28 for grades 2-5 and Monday, July 22 to Friday, July 26 for grades 6-12. Both camps will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at FishHawk Fellowship Church, 15326 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. The cost is $100 per student. For more information, visit www.fishhawkfc.org/basketball.
Tennis Camp Weeks Offered In FishHawk
FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club will offer camp this summer for ages 6 to 16. Camp is for beginning and intermediate skill levels. Choose your weeks between Monday, June 3 and Friday, August 9. Full day camp available or half days from 9
a.m.-1:30 p.m. or 1:30-4 p.m. are available. Camp will be offered at 15921 Courtside View Dr. in Lithia. Register online at http://fishhawkranchtennisclub.com or call 681-4000.
Musical Theater And Much More Offered At Firehouse Cultural Center The Firehouse Cultural Center will be offering Summer Camp through the summer. It is located at 101 1st Ave. NE in Ruskin. Week 1: June 3 – June 7 - Musical Theater I; Week 2: June 10 – June 14; Musical Theater II Week 3: June 17 – June 21; Musical Theater III; Week 4: June 24 – June 28;
Musical Theater IV Week 5: July 1 - July 5 (No Camp on Thursday, July 4), Art Studio; Week 6: July 8 - July 12, Art Studio II; Week 7: July 15 – July 19, Cartooning & Animation; Week 8: July 22 – July 26, Robotics-Tech Fee for Robotics: $50; Week 9: July 29 – August 2, Robotics -Tech Fee for Robotics: $50. For more information, call 645-7651 or visit www.firehouseculturalcenter.org.
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Valrico (Plaza Bella shopping center).
Combat Dreaded Summer Slide With Mathnasium Of Brandon Or Mathnasium @Home
Kids can power up this summer with Mathnasium of Brandon or Mathnasium @home. The summer slide is real and students can lose over two months of mathematical skills every summer. Mathnasium can help prevent that with its Power Up summer programs. Summer is an ideal time for student's math ability to skyrocket. Without the pressure of school and extracurricular activities, students are able to focus and learn in a relaxed atmosphere, and they will love coming to Mathnasium as FUN is built in to the mathematical activities along with celebrating successes and fun prizes for outstanding attendance and growth. "Take advantage of the more relaxed environment of summer break which is a golden opportunity to improve math performance whether your student is struggling or just wanting to dig deeper into their math studies," suggest Becky McDaniels, center director at Mathnasium of Brandon and Mathnasium @home. Mathnasium's @home program is an additional benefit for students who would like to keep up their skills
Summer Camps For Girls Develop Positive Self Esteem
but are traveling. You can take Mathnasium anywhere with Mathnasium
@home. Mathnasium will help parents choose a Summer Power Workout Plan, such as numerical fluency, fractions, multiplication fluency, problem solving, algebra readiness, geometry readiness and so much more based on a diagnostic of the student. Experts say that the effects of a summer learning program, such as Mathnasium's, will make a positive difference for student's moving forward. Call 655-MATH (6284) or visit www.mathnasium.com/brandon/promotions to schedule your student's risk free diagnostic at your favorite neighborhood center or at home with the Mathnasium @home program and help your student to Power Up this summer. Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 E Bloomingdale Ave. in
Girls With Confidence offers fun and creative workshops, events and camps for girls in K-8th grade that focus on the development of strong self-esteem and confidence. This summer, Girls With Confidence will help your daughter between the ages of Kindergarten
through rising 6th graders develop positive self-esteem during day camps geared just for them this summer. Themes will include Friendship, Girl Power, Role Models, Positive Mind & Attitude, Love My Selfie, Being Brave and Taking Care of Yourself & more. Overnight camps will also be offered for those in 6-8th grade. Volunteer opportunities are available for high school girls. Visit www.girlswithconfidence.com for more information. You can also email info@girlswithconfidence.com or call 571-2002.
SUMMER CAMP 2019
JUNE 3 - AUGUST 2
Register online at www.girlswithconfidence.com Questions: Info@girlswithconfidence.com
813-571-2002
Helping Girls Develop Positive Overnight Self-Esteem for a Lifetime Camp Topics Include:
Friendships Girl Power Role Models Positive Mind & Attitude Love My Selfie Being Brave Taking Care of Yourself and much more! 5 Day Camps for K-Rising 6th Grade Girls
for GIRLS 6th-8th Grade!
Camps offered throughout the Summer Full Day & Half Day Camps Available Prices start at $119 Volunteer Opportunities for High School Girls New Camper, Multi-Camp & Sibling Discounts Available Please visit our website for full listing of available camps!
Hours: 6am - 10pm South Brandon
Lake Brandon Village
(813) 571-0569
(813) 655-1237
2010 Bloomingdale Ave, Brandon 11325 Causeway Blvd, Brandon
www.chickfilabrandon.com
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Make Summer Days Happy Days At Happy Day Summer Camp
Weekly themes that are fun for your kids ages 1 to 10 will include many activities that will keep them moving and having a great summer. The days will include plenty of arts & crafts, friendships as well as academic summer fun. Music, sports & games, character and manners, bouncy house and giant slide with outdoor water play round out the fun. Kids will enjoy an ice cream social and much more. The cost is $100 per week for upcoming K5 to 5th grade campers. This includes all field trips and weekly activities such as bowling, skating, AMC Movies, state parks, MOSI, public library, Publix, Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo, Dinosaur World and more. Happy Day Summer Camp is open from Monday to Friday from 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. and is located at 722 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-0028.
Kids Club! Weekly Summer Camp Includes Field Trips
Sign up today for $110 per week. The price includes two weekly field trips and all activities.
Your kids, ages K5-5th grade, will enjoy arts & crafts, friendship play, academic summer fun, music, sports & games, character & manners, ice cream social, pizza parties, bouncy house and giant slide and outdoor water play at Morning Glory Summer Camp . Field trips include bowling, skating, state parks, movies, Medieval Times Theater, Pump It Up, MOSI, Bricks 4 Kidz, Lowry Park Zoo,
ACH Video Arcade, Great Explorations Children’s Museum, Florida Aquarium and more. Morning Glory is located at 6001 Christy Ln. (off Bloomingdale near Rt. 301). For more information, call 628-0541 or visit www.MorningGloryPreschool.org.
Summer Camps At Adventures Archery
Kids from the ages of 8-16 can spend some time this summer honing their skills at archery. Learn about range safety, archery skills and arrow fletching. Summer camps will take place during three sessions from 10 a.m.-12 Noon daily. The sessions are Monday to Wednesday, June 17-1,; July 8-10 and July 22-24. Camp will be available at both locations-2210 W. US Hwy. 301 in Tampa and 2332 E. Edgewood Dr. in Lakeland. The cost is $100 per child with equipment rental, $60 per child who does not need to rent equipment. Space is limited. You can preregister by calling 664-8700 or 863-937-8968. Visit http://www.adventuresarchery.com/.
TechPlayzone Offers Hands-On Technology Enrichment In Fun & Safe Environment
TechPlayzone has led the charge for engaging young people in science, technology, engineering and math
since 2005. With an increased demand for hands-on technology enrichment, TechPlayzone has continued to provide families with an excellent curriculum and fun in a safe environment for all kids. Give your child a high-tech advantage at TechPlayzone this summer. TechPlayzone is pleased to offer 4 weeks (July 8, 15, 22 and 29) of STEM Camp for elementary and middle school students ages 7-13. Middle school camp is 8 a.m.-12 Noon and elementary school camp is 9 a.m.-12 Noon. For the elementary camp, TechPlayzone is honored to partner with FIRST LEGO League at Hillsborough Community College to power the FIRST LEGO League Camp. Every week of TechPlayzone
camp includes: LEGO Mindstorms Robotics, Minecraft for Jr. Engineers Hands-On Science Experiments, Scratch Game Design. It will take place at HCC Brandon Campus, located at 10414 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. For middle school (6-8th grade) students, TechPlayzone offers engi-
SOCCER FUN WITH COACH JUAN Boys and Girls
Boys and Girls
born between 2012 and 2007
born between 2006 and 2002
Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex Lithia FL
Soccer Fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex Lithia FL
July 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 2019 9.00 am to 1.00 pm
July 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 2019 9.00 am to 1.00 pm
$195.00 if registered before April 15, 2019 • $215.00 if registered after April 15, 2019 CAMP FEATURES: Age appropriate technical and tactical instruction • Small sided games • Daily 5 v 5 Competitions • Daily Soccer Tennis and Soccer Golf Competitions • Professional coaching staff • Athletic Trainer onsite • Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt Registration:www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016
GOALKEEPER SUMMER CAMP
STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING CAMP
Age Groups: 8U – 10U, 11U - 12U,13U and Up, College Level July 29,30, 31, August 1, 2, 2019 8.00 am to 2.30 pm
Monday through Friday, starting June 24 until August 2, 2019 8.00 am to 10.00 am
Fishhawk Sports Complex, Lithia, FL
First two weeks: Randall Fields, then Soccer Fields of the FishHawk Sports Complex, Lithia FL
Investment: $495.00
$50.00 for 5 days • $100.00 for 10 days • $150.00 for 15 days
CAMP FEATURES: Daily session of specific, age appropriate Goalkeeper Skills & tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position Daily Video Session on technical and tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position Daily “Only a Goalkeeper can do it” Competition, Crossbar Challenge Competition & Goalkeeper War Competition Experienced Coaching Staff and optimal Coach to Player Ratio Athletic Trainer onsite • Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt Registration: www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Juan E De Brigard, Director of Coaching, Florida Hawks FC | doc@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 754 244 3016
CAMP FEATURES: Age appropriate physical, technical and tactical instruction • Speed • Agility Explosiveness/Reaction • Power Strength • Conditioning• Daily Soccer skills Professional and Certified coaching staff • Athletic Trainer onsite Hydration Station • Camp T Shirt
Male / Female Goalkeepers
Boys and Girls born between 2012 and 2001
Registration: www.floridahawksfc.com Contact Kaneile Thomas, Camp Director | k.thomas@floridahawksfc.com • Cell # 561 685 1328
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neering enrichment. Using TechPlayzone’s formula of hands-on project-based learning with cutting edge technology, students can work at their own pace or work as a team with the assistance of facilitators and staff members to complete one of the engineering projects each week. Register for your choice of Minecraft Mods and Raspberry Pi, LEGO EV3 with RobotC, App Inventor App Development and Programmable Drones. For more information, contact Desh Bagley at 444-2267 or techplayzone@gmail.com.
ence, learning to ride as well as how to groom the horses. Camp takes place Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. starting Monday, June 3. Your kids will enjoy field trips each Friday they are at camp. With limited space (eight spots weekly), you will want to call early.
Summer Camp At T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven
T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven is now registering for summer camp. The farm has been in business for more than 12 years offering after-school riding lessons, horseback riding camps, monthly horse leasing, pony parties and more. Your kids, from age 7 and up, will have a lot of fun enjoying weekly themed horseback riding camps. They will receive hands-on experi-
Located 10 minutes from FishHawk, T.L.C. Gypsy Haven is located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia. For more information, please call Tammi at 842-4236 or visit www.tlcsfarms.com.
Florida Hawks FC Summer Camps For Soccer Players The Florida Hawks FC will be holding summer camps throughout the season. The Club is set up to develop great people by teaching life lessons on and off the field. Strength & Conditioning Camp Strength and Conditional Camp For Soccer Players will take place Monday through Friday, June 24 to August 2 from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Boys and girls born between 2001 and 2012 are welcome to attend. The camp will feature age appropriate physical, technical and tactical instruction, speed, agility, explosiveness/reaction, power, strength, conditioning as well as daily soccer skills. There will be a professional and certified coaching staff as well as an athletic trainer onsite. Your child must bring a readiness to push their strength and cardiovascular limits and a desire to learn soccer skills. The first two weeks of camp will take place at the Randall Fields then move to the soccer fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex. Soccer Fun With Coach Juan You can sign your child up for Soccer Fun, which will include age appropriate technical and tactical instruction, small sided games, daily 5 v 5 competitions, daily soccer tennis and soccer golf competitions.
Staff Report
Camp will take place from Monday to Friday, July 8-12 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. for boys and girls born between 2007 and 2012. For those born between 2002 and 2006, camp will take place Monday to Friday, July 15-19 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. There will be a professional coaching staff as well as athletic trainer on-site. The cost is $195 if registered before Monday, April 15 and $215 if registered after that. Camp takes place at the Soccer Fields of the Fishhawk Sports Complex in Lithia. Goalkeeper Summer Camp If your child is interested in being a goalkeeper, there is a camp specifically for them. It features daily sessions of specific, age appropriate goalkeeper skills. It will take place Monday, July 29 through Friday, August 2 and is for male and female goalkeepers in age groups 8U-10U, 11U-12U, 13U and up and college level. Camp begins at 8 a.m. and runs through 2:30 p.m. The cost is $495. All campers need to bring cleats, shin guards, a ball and a water bottle. Contact Juan DeBrigard, Director of Coaching at doc@floridahawksfc or 754-244-3016. To register, visit www.floridahawksfc.com.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE • 6 Weeks Through 12 Years • Full & Part Time Options • Open: M-F 6am to 6:30pm • Creative Curriculum for Infants & Toddlers • ABC Mouse Computer Technology • Brainwaves Curriculum • APPLE Accreditation • CITA Approved Curriculum • Security Code Access Entry • FREE Internet Viewing of Your Child’s Day • Outdoor Playgrounds with Water Park • Servicing the following schools, Grades K to 5 Stowers, Valrico Academy, FishHawk Creek, Bevis, Lithia Springs, Alafia, Cimino, and Foundation Christian • Nutritious Meals & Snacks: Low Salt & Sugar • Spanish & Music Included • Trained Professional Staff, Certified in First Aid & CPR • Extracurricular Programs
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NOW ENROLLING EXCITING WEEKLY THEMES! CIRCA FISHHAWK 8136547000
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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
April 2019
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 63
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
The Firehouse Pub Is A Great Source For Local Entertainment
Watercolor Art And DooDads On Display At SouthShore Regional Library
The Firehouse Cultural want to miss a fun night. Center’s Firehouse Pub in On Saturday, April 27, Ruskin has lots of great local star Victoria Ginty and entertainment in store for the Ladyhawke with Friends will community over the next be performing at the few weeks. You can enjoy Firehouse Pub at 7:30 p.m. music and comedy and Ginty is a singer-songwriter attend a dinner that will help who has had a number one less fortunate children enjoy record and received multiple summer camp, all in a laidnominations as a singerback setting. songwriter, for song of the Come see local resident, year and music video of the Georgia Vahue, Victoria Ginty perform Executive Director for the year. This accomplished along with her band, Firehouse Cultural Center entertainer has made her Ladyhawke. said, “The entertainment home in Apollo Beach for provided at the Firehouse Pub enhances the last 10 years. She enjoys playing and the quality of life in the South County.” performing at venues in both Hillsborough First up, on Saturday, April 6 from 6 and Manatee Counties. to 7 p.m., come out and enjoy a delicious In a special Sunday matinee on Mediterranean dinner provided by Pita Sunday, May 5, you can come see David Kebab and Chef. The cost of the dinner is Gerald: Blues Rocker at 3 p.m. Gerald’s $10. All proceeds from the dinner will go new album, N2U, was recently released to support the Firehouse Cultural Center in April of 2018. Ken Heath, Director of 2019 Camp Scholarships. This opportuni- Community and Economic Development ty is limited to 100 diners. for Marion, Virginia said, “Gerald is hands After dinner, stay on to listen to down one of the top blues musicians of Tampa Bay’s Gypsy Star as they artfully our era. Gerald brings the heart of the fuse original indie folk rock with rhythms legendary blues across the strings on his from around the world to create their own guitar.” unique sounds. The show begins at 7:30 Advanced tickets to the shows are p.m. $18 for members and $23 for nonmemThe Firehouse Pub will be the place bers. Day of tickets are $23 for members for great comedy on Friday, April 26 at and $28 for nonmembers. You can get 7:30 p.m. Comedians will be announced, tickets by calling 645-7651 or by visiting but make plans now because you will not www.firehouseculturalcenter.org.
The SouthShore explained, "DooDad is a Regional Library in local competition for Ruskin has two excitHillsborough County stuing exhibits on display dents that create recycled this month in the materials sculptures with Crawford Gallery. The a theme." Any student, community is encourwhether they go to a pubaged to stop by and lic or private school or are see a solo exhibit by homeschooled, can enter The SouthShore Regional Library the competition. This Norma Gonzalez and in Ruskin is hosting two an exhibit featuring year, the theme was exceptional exhibits this month. student DooDad art. Wildlife Conservation. Norma Gonzalez is a local artist. She Students are required to repurpose aluis displaying 16 beautiful watercolor minum cans, straws and maps donated works. Melanie Hanson, Library Service from AAA to create sculptures which & Technology Guide II/Art Coordinator, adhere to the theme. said, "Norma has been involved with art In the exhibit, there are several since she was a child and took two years unique and cleverly created exhibits, of painting instruction. She lives to paint including a wonderfully created exhibit nature and buildings." called “Manatees.” This one was created Gonzalez, who is a nurse, has lived by Alex Wagner, a homeschool student. in Cuba, Spain and California. She works “Manatee” won Middle School Best of in different mediums, including watercolor, Show and First Place. acrylic, crayons and markers. The current Other interesting exhibits include exhibit features watercolor paintings. “Mangrove Estuary,” which was created Gonzalez said in her artist statement, “I by Brenda Eastep’s fifth grade class at love to travel and sketch while I am Ruskin Elementary; “Arctic Foxes” by exploring.” Aubree Gooddine, a homeschool student Gonzalez will be teaching classes and “Pollinator Garden,” a group exhibit called Watercolor: Tools and Rules at the created by a group of homeschool stuSouthShore Regional Library on dents which won an Honorable Mention Wednesdays on April 24, May 29 and Award. June 26. The SouthShore Regional Library is The DooDad exhibit features multiple located at 15816 Beth Shields Way in pieces created by students. Hanson Ruskin.
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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