Osprey Observer 2019-02 Valrico by Osprey Observer

Two Sections, 36 Pages of Community News

Valrico

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

February 2019 Volume 16, Issue 2 Ph: 657-2418 1 7

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P U B L I S H I N G

The 84th Annual 2019 Strawberry Festival Is Sure To Be ByAMichelle Hit Colesanti

2019 Strawberry Festival Queen Kendall Gaudens, along with First Maid Madilyn Conrad and court members Kennedy Cullins, Jada Brown and Olivia Frazier, can be seen at festival events throughout the grounds. The 84th annual Strawberry Festival will take place from Thursday, February 28 to Sunday, March 10.

The 84th annual Strawberry Festival promises to be a ‘berry’ sweet time for those in attendance. This year, it takes place from Thursday, February 28 to Sunday, March 10. Enjoy 11 days of familyfriendly entertainment, which includes fair food delights, concerts, rides, stage shows, attractions and exhibits. The Festival represents the fabric of American life, which is woven into the Festival through its social events, contests, youth programs, top-name entertainment and parades with glorious floats and marching bands. It continues to preserve and enhance the agricultural and historical legacy of the Florida strawberry. Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. daily. Midway times vary. General admission is $10 for ages 13 and up. Children 5 and under are

admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Children 6 to 12 require a youth ticket purchase of $5. Each year, more than 500,000 visitors enjoy all the Festival offers, including its signature strawberry shortcake. Other ways to enjoy Plant City’s fresh strawberries while visiting include Strawberry Fudge, Strawberry Fritters, Strawberry Kettle Korn, Strawberry Cream Puffs, Deep Fried Strawberry Cheese Burst as well as lots of other fair foods for you to feast on. Kendall Gaudens, a senior at Plant City High School, was crowned the 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen from a field of 31 contestants. She, along with First Maid Madilyn Conrad and court members Kennedy Cullins, Jada Brown and Olivia Frazier, can be seen at festival events throughout the grounds, including on the Wish Farms Soundstage before each of the 24 headline entertainment shows and at community events throughout the

Continued on Page 7

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Middle School Makes Big Impact With Dodgeball Tourney To Fund Crossing Guards

By Kate Quesada

Parents at Mulrennan Middle School in Valrico held a dodgeball tournament last month to fund three crossing guards to assist students get to the school safely.

A group of parents at Mulrennan Middle School took their children’s safety into their own hands last month. Frustrated by the conditions for students who walk to the Valrico middle school, the parents raised $13,000 through a dodgeball tournament to fund three private crossing guards. Valrico resident and mother of three Mulrennan students, Danielle Waymire spearheaded the fundraiser when one of her children was almost hit by car while walking to school. “It got to the point where enough was enough,” said Waymire, who walks her children to school every day. “I couldn’t just watch cars regularly not yielding and children almost getting hit without doing something.” Waymire approached the school, the school district and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office asking for crossing guards and continued to get the same answer. “The bottom line is that there is no funding,” she said. Her next step was to find a private crossing guard company and convince the school district to allow the guards if the school could pay them $13,000 for the remainder of the school year. In order to raise the money, the parents and school employees coordinated a dodgeball tournament with the help of a local business, Dodgeball 2 You. It took less than two weeks for the crossing guards to take their places twice a day directing students and traffic. “They have already made a huge dif-

ference,” said Mulrennan parent and Valrico resident Bridget Wilson. “It is amazing how much easier it is to get to the school, even as a driver. It is so much nicer to have the safety in place.” Waymire and Wilson hope that they will not have to fundraise for the crossing guards again next year. The parents are working with Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy White and Sheriff Chad Chronister to request funding for crossing guards at middle schools throughout the county. White added the issue to the agenda at a Board of County Commissioners meeting earlier this month and Waymire spoke on the issue to the board. They hope to get answers soon about funding for next year. “We are so proud of our school and the fact that we were able to make this happen,” said Wilson. “But we are even happier that local politicians have noticed. We are hoping that by the next school year we won’t have to do this anymore.” Mulrennan Middle School is located at 4215 Durant Rd. in Valrico and can be reached at 651-2100.

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Any Signature Cake Bloomingdale High School Lady Bulls Soccer team celebrate after a grueling fight to win Districts, Wednesday, January 30, with its 2-1 win against King High School in overtime. The Lady Bulls soccer team ended its season, Tuesday, February 5 with a tough 2-1 loss to Seminole High School. Way to go Lady Bulls finishing its season Overall 10-2-2 and District 5-0-1.

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Page 2

Valrico Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

February 2019

Plant City Native Ashley Moody Now Serves All Floridians As Attorney General

By Brad Stager

As the 1993 to Moody, her husband Florida Strawberry Justin Duralia (a federFestival Queen, Plant al law enforcement City native and agent) and their two Florida Attorney sons. General Ashley “Thank goodness Moody’s court was for my mother who set more about an example for me pageantry than justhat I could do this.” tice. While Moody is Since then spending her workMoody has distindays in Tallahassee guished herself as an and elsewhere in attorney, prosecutor the state, her legaand as a judge, pre- Plant City native and cy as an advocate Strawberry Queen siding over the 13th for children going Ashley Moody is the Judicial Circuit Court 38th through the legal Florida Attorney of Florida in system while she General. Hillsborough County as the youngest elected judge in the state at age 31. She became Florida’s 38th attorney general by winning the election in November and was sworn into office last month. As Florida’s new lawenforcement leader, Moody has set an agenda of combating the illegal narcotics trade, human Attorney General Ashley Moody meets with members of her Tampa field office team. trafficking as well as protecting consumer rights. was a circuit judge in Hillsborough In her electoral victory remarks, County continues, according to attorney Moody spoke of the principles she abides Rosemary Armstrong, executive director by in carrying out her duties as attorney of Crossroads for Florida Kids, a nongeneral. profit organization providing legal servic“The preparation for this role really es to children in the foster care system. began a long time ago,” said Moody. She credits Moody for an increase in “Beginning with my father, a judge, lawyers providing pro bono services to who taught me that the strength and poor people and helping get Crossroads resilience of our society hinges on a fair established. She wrote in an email that judicial system. Not only a fair judicial sys- Floridians can expect the same committem, but one that is perceived as fair, and ment from Attorney General Moody. I will work towards that end every day as “I have no doubt that Ashley Moody attorney general.” will be an extraordinary Attorney Moody also credited her mother as General, who will make Hillsborough an inspiration for earning her law degree County and all of Florida proud that they while working as a full-time parent, a elected her. Everything she does, she work-life balancing routine that is familiar does well!”

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Valrico Edition

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CREATE! Workshops At Bloomingdale Library Will Motivate Creativity

By Michelle Colesanti

The will learn how to Bloomingdale make a stunning Regional Library art piece using a offers many free simple dictionary classes for both page and wateradults and children. color pencils. The Bloomingdale Attendees will be Regional Library is taught the properlucky enough to ties of watercolor have the pencils through the Bloomingdale use of a practice Writer’s sheet. Using the Connection, a watercolor pencils, group that started each person will Get creative by taking one or all of the around 12 years then choose a dicupcoming workshops provided by the and offers annual tionary page to Bloomingdale Writer’s Connection at the Bloomingdale Regional Library. Life Writing classes decorate by highas well as other workshops throughout lighting a single word on the page and the year. creating a colorful drawing of the chosen A few workshops coming up in the word on the page. You will take home next few months will help you find the your finished art piece. motivation you need to get started or get On Saturday, May 11, learn how to ideas. ‘Create a Journal’. Veteran artist Bonnie On Saturday, March 9 from 10 a.m.Phillips will facilitate this class, which will 1 p.m. in Room 8, join Judith Henry in a take place in Room 8 from 10 a.m.-2 ‘Personal Journey Poem’ workshop that p.m. will let you create using words and art. Participants decide what kind of jourParticipants will list key thoughts, feelings nal they want to make - travel, summer, and experiences from their past, present art, bullet, writing, holiday or a combinaand anticipated future. The words and tion. The class includes everything you phrases will be cut into strips and will need to begin. You may bring your arranged in the form of a poem, which own journal to work in, use a steno notewill then be glued to a hand-decorated book provided, or create pages provided stretched canvas, suitable for hanging. that you can add to your own journal You will be able to take away your finlater. ished canvas. The classes are free, but you need Jennifer Hand’s ‘Dictionary Art’ will to sign up at the Bloomingdale Library help you get your creative juices flowing. Ask Desk in person or call 273-3652 and This class will take place on Saturday, ask for the Bloomingdale Library Ask April 13 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Participants Desk to register.

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Page 4

Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

BYSA Hits Another One Out Of The Park Celebrating Its 50th Year

By Kathi Hayes

It takes a village to be successful. As When the first umpire announced BYSA celebrates a successful 50 years, “Let’s Play Ball” at a small private park it recognizes all the volunteers who keep on the corner of Lithia Pinecrest Road the fields well maintained, parents who and Bloomingdale Avenue 50 years continue to support their children, board ago, it launched a sports legacy that members who make decisions for continues to present day. improvements and especially coaches The Bloomingdale Youth Sports who positively impact each player. Association (BYSA), formerly called the Proud parent Jim Delaney was Bloomingdale Little League (BLL), will another player who returned to the fields, celebrate its 50th Anniversary by host“I played baseball from 1987-91 and it ing a celebration event on Saturday, was the best place to not only play for a February 23. The morning will kick off at quality league, but to have pickup sand11 a.m. on Field 2, featuring a guest lot-type games with friends there as speaker, past players, food vendors, well. Now, my daughter is entering her bounce house, face painting, dunk tank Players wearing uniforms consisting of blue jeans and Bloomingdale baseball team 10th season playing.” He continues, “I and more. shirt as coach presents a trophy in 1974. drive home the imporIn 1969, as the tance of playing for your center of the communilocal community to my ty, this ballpark providdaughter and she ed kids a safe place to enjoys playing and play baseball while learning the game of learning about good softball while representsportsmanship. A halfing our park around the century later, it is now Tampa Bay area and a county park that has afar.” grown from three fields Please join BYSA into eight fields with 15 to celebrate its 50th batting cages. Located Anniversary on at the corner of Saturday, February 23 Bloomingdale Ave. and from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. It is Culbreath Rd., there Jim Delaney at age 15 (L) in 1988. Frank Mega (C) played from T-Ball to the located at 2215 are seven fields across Coaching his daughter, Paige at a softball 15 year old Juniors program (1981Bloomingdale Ave. in from the Campo Y and tournament. 1991). Now, Drew, age 12 and Mallory, age 10 have been playing on the same Valrico. one field, Field 8 neswhere all things hapfields since age five. For more informatled in behind the Y campus. pen in baseball and in lessons and love to the tion about the 50th Anniversary celebra“BYSA has become a community life. Frank Mega is next generation.” Mega tion or to register your child for next landmark,” said former player Rocco another player turned was born and raised in season, call 684-8422 or visit Cafaro. “The volunteers that run the parent and board Valrico, and he started http://bysa.website.siplay.com/. park have faithfully maintained and member, “BYSA is a at BLL at a young age improved the facilities over the years, place where kids can with T-Ball and co tinand it remains a vibrant part of a thriving get away and be themued playing for about community. On any given weekend, the selves; interacting with 10 more years. After place is filled with kids learning about kids of all walks of life Mega attended Florida baseball and having fun.” Cafaro himself and share in the love State University, he played baseball at these fields in the of the game,” he said. continued living in mid-late 1980s, continuing his career “For myself, I enjoy Valrico. A board memplaying for Bloomingdale High School teaching and leading ber since 2013, he and making it to the 1991 State Final the players in on and now enjoys watching Four team. Now, he enjoys watching his off the field lessons two sons, Luca and Marco, play at the Rocco Cafaro (C) played in mid-late his kids enjoy the that will help them 1980s at the BYSA fields. Sons Luca BYSA’s sports prosame fields since they were 4 years old. grow into good stew(L) age 11 and Marco (R) age 13 grams. These fields are the ‘Home Plate’ ards to pass on the have played since 4 years of age.

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Valrico Edition

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Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Tuesday, February 19; Tuesday, March 5 and Thursday, March 21 at 5:45 p.m. Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking your Social Security benefits; perfect for ages 58-67. The HCC campus at the Regent, 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave message after 4:30 p.m.

Master Gardener Library Program: Right Plant in the Right Place Wednesday, March 6; 6:30-8 p.m. Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico Find your dream plants. Learn useful industry terms that will help you avoid impulsive or ‘shot-gun’ purchases. Please bring a plant or other gardening item for a fun Plant Swap. Email Richard@seedroff.com or call 303-638-3917 for more info.

Sporting Clay Challenge - Let's Shoot For A Cure For MS!

Friday, March 8 at 8-11 a.m. FishHawk Sporting Clays, 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd.; Lithia Cost: $75 individual ($80 after 3/1); $280 Team of 4 ($300 after 3/1) Includes 50 Clay Targets, two boxes of Shells, BBQ lunch and soft drinks Trophies Awarded. E-mail info@teampango.com.

2019 Bay Area Renaissance Festival-MOSI

Weekends: February 16-March 31; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (Rain or Shine) Battle Axe Pub, Living Unicorn, Giant Puppet Troupe, Bow Blast, Armored Joust, Aerial Act. Discounted tickets are at Circle K and BayAreaRenFest.com.

Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting

Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m. Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza, Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President – 767-1569

Parkinson's Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon

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

Master Gardener Plant Clinic

Tuesday, March 5; 6:30 p.m. Riverview Library, 10509 Riverview Dr. Orchids: The Basics will be presented by Master Gardener Verna Dickey. Call 273-3652 for more information.

Monthly Car Show & Cannoli

First Saturday of the month; 2-5 p.m. Beve Cibo, 5622 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia Sponsored by First Light Home Care. 50/50 Raffle supports Relay for Life $1 of every Sparkling Berries Cocktail donated back to Relay.

Hawthorne Health & Rehab Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Third Thursday of the month; 2 p.m. 851 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon For more information or to register, call 661-8998 - M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Congregation Beth Shalom

Shabbat Services – Fridays; 7 p.m. at 706 Bryan Rd., Brandon Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. All welcome. Call 681-6547.

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First Tuesday of the month; 7 p.m. Alafia American Legion Post #148, 7240 US Hwy. 301 in Riverview. The Sgt. Walter P. Ryan Detachment of the Marine Corps League is looking for new members. All Marines welcome. Other military branch members accepted too. Email mclsgtryan@gmail.com or call Ron Essick at 503-0390.

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Page 6

Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

Community Roundtable To Host Annual Community Affairs Dinner

By Kathy L. Collins

The Community participation via Roundtable will hold its membership and volAnnual Community unteerism. They do Affairs Dinner on this by holding severWednesday, February al events that are 27 at Center Place designed to assist located at 619 local non-profits and Vonderburg Dr., Ste B the public at large. in Brandon. There will An example of be a Social Hour beginthis is the Annual Photo courtesy of Steve B. Nickerson Honorary Mayor of ning at 6 p.m. with a sitdown dinner to follow at Join like-minded area residents and Brandon! Race. For celebrate all that is good about the 7 p.m. Greater Brandon area at the Annual 60 years, distinTickets for the Community Affairs Dinner hosted by guished individuals the Community Roundtable. annual event are just devote the month of $45 per person. You can become a spon- June to “running” for Honorary Mayor by sor and host a table of eight for just $450. holding events. The candidate who raises To reserve your tickets and to get more the most money is declared the Honorary information on sponsorships, please call Mayor. All proceeds raised are donated to 661-4350 or email the non-profits chosen by the candidate. roundtable2008@aol.com. In addition, the Community The theme for this year’s dinner is a Roundtable hosts the Annual Fourth of Celebration of the 60th Anniversary of the July Parade, which is believed to be Florida’s largest; a golf tournament; a Honorary Mayor of Brandon! Race. All former Honorary Mayors have been invitCommunity Service Forum; and several ed to attend the dinner and will be preother events. sented with a gift to recognize their supJanine Nickerson, President of the port for the Greater Brandon area. Community Roundtable said, “The Annual In addition to recognizing the Community Affairs Dinner highlights the Honorary Mayors, the dinner is a time accomplishments of our local neighbors when awards are presented, including the and businesses who work for the betterAlice B. Tompkins Community Service ment of other residents who have fallen Award, The Non-Profit of the Year Award on difficult times. By supporting Brandon’s and the Community Roundtable charities, we can all benefit from those Scholarship, which is awarded to deservcontributions. Attendees to the dinner ing students. mingle with active volunteers, charities The Community Roundtable is an all- and achievers who may spark interest to volunteer organization whose mission is volunteer with worthy non-profits.” to instill a sense of community and pride Please visit www.thecommunityfor the Greater Brandon area through roundtable.org.

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February 2019

Page 7

Valrico Edition

Strawberry Festival...Con’t... From Page 1 year. “Once again, we have an outstanding group of young ladies who will represent us well for the 84th year,” said President Paul Davis There is no place better than the Strawberry Festival to catch some of your favorite concerts. Favorites such as Alabama, Willie Nelson, Kool & The Gang, Styx, Martina McBride, Chris Janson and Old Dominion will take to the Wish Farms Soundstage. Reserved seats for headline entertainment shows are available at the Amscot Main Ticket Gate located at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City. An additional ticket office located on the SW corner of the TECO Expo Hall will be open during the Festival to sell any remaining reserved seat tickets. With your paid admission, there is also a lot of free entertainment to enjoy. In the Publix Showcase Tent,

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Dennis Lee takes the stage daily at 12 Noon, 2 and 4 p.m. most days. The 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival Battle of the Bands will take place Thursday, February 28, Tuesday, March 5 and Thursday, March 7 at 6 p.m. In the Kellogg’s Strawberry Tent, you can watch Kari & Billy daily at 12 Noon, 4 and 7 p.m.; Kazual daily at 1, 3 and 6 p.m. and The Walker Boys daily at 2 and 5 p.m. All around the grounds there is plenty to check out, including the Paul Bunyan Lumberjacks vs. Lumberjills daily at 12 Noon, 2 and 4 p.m. Additional 6 p.m. shows are on Saturdays and Sundays. The Pompeyo Dog Show takes place daily at 12:30, 3:30 and 5:30 p.m., and enjoy the silly fun at the Robinson’s Racing Pigs, which runs daily at 11 a.m., 12 Noon, 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Youth Livestock Shows will take place throughout the Festival days.

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Page 8

Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

ight, N p i S Paint & , Plant & Bunco le & More… e Sa ichelle Colesanti, g a m m Ru by M ed com Compil spreyobserver. o @ e ll miche

GFWC Brandon Junior Women’s Club To Hold Canvas Paint &Sip

On Tuesday, February 26, enjoy a fun night with friends painting while enjoying some wine and light refreshments. The cost is $25. Doors open at 6:30 and painting begins at 7 p.m. There will be opportunity baskets along with a 50/50 chance to win cash. Get your tickets early as space is limited. It will take place at 209 N. Moon Ave. in Brandon. Funds will help purchase musical instruments for McLane Middle School. Contact Sharon for tickets and information at 416-4048 or red2moose@yahoo.com.

Moving Day, A Walk For Parkinson’s To Take Place At USF In April

On Saturday, April 6 from 8:30 a.m.-12 Noon, the Parkinson’s Foundation will host its fifth annual Moving Day Tampa Bay, A Walk for Parkinson’s to unite the Tampa Bay community in the fight against Parkinson’s. Funds raised through Moving Day will support cutting-edge research and community programs to improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease and their families here in Tampa Bay. More than just a walk, this is a celebration of movement featuring a kids’ area, Resource Pavilion and its signature Movement Pavilion with yoga, dance, Tai Chi and Rock Steady Boxing—all proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms. Moving Day Tampa Bay will take place at the University of South Florida campus. To register and to donate, visit www.movingdaytampabay.org. If your company would like to sponsor or exhibit, contact Megan Willard at

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The G.F.W.C. Valrico Service League, Inc. Presents ‘Puttin' On The Ritz Bunco’

Come join the G.F.W.C. Valrico Service League's Putting on the Ritz Bunco for a night of fun on Thursday, March 7. Social Time/Dinner is from 6-7 p.m. with Bunco starting at 7 p.m. It will be held at Center Place Fine Arts Center, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. Tickets cost $20 and include light dinner, drinks and prizes. Tickets may be purchased at Center Place or contact Claudia Yake at 685-7998. Proceeds help support local school children and families in need in the community.

Plant & Rummage Sale

The Riverview Garden Club will hold its annual Plant & Rummage Sale on Saturday, February 23, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Riverview Civic Center, located at 11020 Park Dr. in Riverview. With a huge variety of flowering, Floridafriendly, vegetable and herb plants and seeds, this is a great opportunity to add to your spring garden. The rummage sale includes household goods, clothing, books, collectables and gardening items and tools, and the bake sale offers a wonderful selection of cookies, cakes, pies and breads baked by Club members. This fundraising event supports the Riverview Garden Club's annual college scholarship awards for graduating senior students from area high schools and its grants to local nonprofit community cooperative gardens. Free admission and parking, and student volunteers will even help get your purchases to your car.

G.F.W.C. Valrico Service League members at last year’s Bunco.

No alcohol is to be brought on property. Water and cups are available. Please bring your own snacks and drinks. Visit strawberrysquaredancing.com.

Crawfish Festival At Winthrop Seeks Sponsors Volunteers And Donations

The Rotary Club of FishHawkRiverview is pleased to announce the Ninth Annual Crawfish Festival brought to you by Christopher Ligori and Associates will be held on Saturday, April 27, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Founders Square Park

in Winthrop at 11109 Winthrop Market St. in Riverview. All the money raised is donated to

local charities and scholarship funds. There will be live music and plenty of food, drinks, desserts and activities for the children. There is no entry fee. A crawfish meal is $20 and will include about two lbs. of crawfish with the fixings (corn and potatoes). Other food items and beverages will be available for purchase at the event, including Cajun & Creole food and drinks, hamburgers and hotdogs. Pepin Brewing will be providing a beer truck. There are many ways that you can help make this event a success, including sponsorships, volunteers, donations, selling tickets and more. For more information, please visit at www.luvcrawfish.com or call event organizer Rhonda McDaniel at 330-9321.

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Page 9

Valrico Edition

Disney On Ice Presents Dare To Dream At Amalie Arena

Staff Report

Disney’s Moana tiny at Disney On voyages onto the ice Ice presents Dare for the first time as To Dream! Disney On Ice presFans are ents Dare To Dream, encouraged to produced by Feld arrive early to celeEntertainment Inc. It brate family and brings courage and tradition with adventure to homeMiguel from towns across North Disney/Pixar’s America. Hosts Coco in a special Mickey Mouse and sing-along guest Minnie Mouse bring appearance. audiences on an Discover your inner expedition across raghero when Disney ing seas and snowOn Ice presents covered mountains in Dare To Dream at this action-packed Amalie Arena. extravaganza when Tickets for beloved characters Disney On Ice from Disney’s Beauty presents Dare to and the Beast, Dream are availFrozen, Tangled and able at www.disCinderella visit Tampa neyonice.com, from March 21-24 at 800-745-3000 or at Amalie Arena. Tickets the Amalie Arena are currently on sale Box Office, located to the public. Believe at 401 Channelside in what is possible as Dr. in Tampa. five Disney heroines Show times are spark the courage Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream at Thursday and Amalie Arena from Tuesday to Sunday, inside us all in Disney Friday, March 21 On Ice presents Dare March 21-4. Tickets are currently on sale. and 22 at 7 p.m.; To Dream! In her Disney On Ice debut, Saturday, March 23 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. see how far Moana will go in an epic and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 24 at 11 adventure with demigod Maui to save her a.m. and 3 p.m. island and discover her true identity. Join To sign up to be a Feld Preferred Belle as she fearlessly befriends the member and to receive presale alerts, enchanted castle staff and reveals the please visit Beast’s gentleness. Experience Anna’s www.feldentertainment.com/preferreddevotion to her sister, Elsa, on her lifecustomer-page. changing journey to stop an eternal winTo discover more about Disney On ter. Explore with Rapunzel, Flynn Ryder, Ice, go to DisneyOnIce.com. Stay current Cinderella and friends from around the on the latest developments through social Disney Kingdom as they find the heart media: Facebook: and determination to overcome obstacles www.facebook.com/DisneyOnIce Twitter: and make their dreams come true. @DisneyOnIce #DisneyOnIce Journey with Mickey and Minnie to #100YearsofMagic YouTube: uncover why no goal is too big when we www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce find the strength to shape our own desInstagram: @DisneyOnIce.

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Page 10

Valrico Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

Full Steam Ahead As Thomas The Tank Engine Visits The Florida Railroad Museum

Learn And Play Tampa Bay Prepares Local Children For Kindergarten

All A ‘Passport to aboard! Thomas the Adventures’ bookTank Engine invites litlet will be availtle engineers to go full able for children to steam ahead for a day track their journey of engaging activities and fun adventures at Day Out With Thomas: The Steam Team Tour 2019. Children are Bring your younger train enthusiasts invited to spend a day out to The Florida Railroad Museum in with their friend Parrish on March 9 and 10 and again Thomas when the #1 at the event and on March 15-17. Engine pulls into Parrish on Saturday and receive a special prize upon completion. Sunday, March 9 and 10 and Friday to There will also be Thomas & Friends Sunday, March 15-17. Day Out With themed activities, including toy play, Thomas: The Steam Team Tour 2019 is photo ops as well as storytelling, video presented by Mattel. viewing and live music. This fun-filled event offers children Tickets for Day Out With Thomas: and their families the opportunity to take a The Steam Team Tour 2019 are on sale ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, star of now and available by calling Ticketweb the popular Thomas & Friends™ series. toll-free at 866-468-7630, or by In addition, they will meet Sir Topham visiting www.dayoutwiththomas.com. Hatt, Controller of the Railway and enjoy Thomas the Tank Engine Tour takes a day of Thomas-themed activities, place at the Florida Railroad Museum, including toy play, photo ops and more. 12210 83rd St. E in Parrish. The tour, now in its 24th year, will make Gates open at 8:30 a.m. with trains 37 stops across the U.S. and Canada departing every hour starting at 9 a.m. It and is expected to welcome nearly one closes at 5 p.m. million passengers in 2019. For information and directions, conTake a 25-minute ride on a talking tact the Florida Railroad Museum at 941Thomas the Tank Engine and meet and 776-0906 or visit www.frrm.org greet with Sir Topham Hatt. For information about the wonderful A variety of activities will be featured world of Thomas & Friends, please at Thomas & Friends Imagination Station. visit www.thomasandfriends.com, www.fa There will be an all-new ‘Ask an cebook.com/thomasandfriends and for Engineer’ booth where kids can talk to an bonus material and exclusive engineer and learn about trains and content www.youtube.com/user/thomasa working on the rails. ndfriends.

The Glazer a week for 90 minutes, Children’s our van drives into Museum is select communities going outward throughout into the commuHillsborough County nity with its and sets up at a comLearn & Play munity center, church Tampa Bay to or local library,” Ariasboost kinderSteele said. “The room garten readiis divided into learning ness by fosstations consisting of The Glazer Children’s tering their littents, tunnels, books, Museum is going outward into tlest learners’ the community with its Learn train stations, balance curiosity to & Play Tampa Bay to boost beams, arts and crafts kindergarten readiness. learn, grow and and puppet theaters. thrive through play, empowering parents These stations encourage little learners to to be confident and knowledgeable teach- engage in art, early writing, numeracy, ers and building a network of mutual sup- STEM, gross motor and imaginative play, port among the families they serve. all the skills needed before entering “The museum started a new initiative Kindergarten.” Caregivers and their little this year to increase its impact within the ones play side by side with other families, community of Tampa Bay as an educaengaging in cooperative play and joining tional resource with its after-school protogether in group circle time to sing grams and field trips for Title 1 schools,” songs, listen to bilingual stories and pracsaid Learn & Play Tampa Bay’s Director, tice following routines just like they would Sara Arias-Steele. “With Learn & Play at school. Tampa Bay, the museum wanted to go The program is completely free further in extending its influence as an thanks to generous funding by the educational institution to tackle the issue Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. of kindergarten readiness within Tampa “All families are asked to please pre-regBay. With 50 percent of children entering ister before attending one of the site locaschool not ready in 2018, the museum tions,” Arias-Steele said. “Our current felt a social responsibility to aid in the locations are in East Tampa (Cyrus efforts by other institutions, such as the Green Community Center) and SeffnerChildren’s Board of Hillsborough County.” Mango Library branch.” The program is in essence a mobile If you would like to learn more about museum, taking the creativity and playful- the program, visit learnplaytampabay.org ness at which the Glazer Children’s or contact Arias-Steele at sariasMuseum excels and embedding it within steele@glazermuseum.org or 833-426their lessons and learning stations. “Twice 7529.

Staff Report

By Libby Hopkins

February 2019

Valrico Edition

Page 11

Center Place Presents Its 28th Annual Wild Dame Night, ‘Art Rocks Comedy’

The Florida Aquarium Opens $4 Million Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center In Apollo Beach

Center Place will Rodriguez added, hold its 28th Annual "You can enjoy dinner, Wild Dame Night drinks, entertainment Celebration on and our Rockin' Saturday, February 23. Desserts. You can This fun Ladies Only support Center Place's event will begin at 6:30 arts programs while p.m. Tickets are just having a fun night out $60 per person. You with the girls." can also sponsor a As noted, all protable for eight for just ceeds from Center $700. Tickets sell out Place's Annual Wild fast, so get them quickDame Night will benefit ly. Center Place's arts Attendees will enjoy programming, which dinner, drinks, entertainincludes arts instruction ment and of course a for children and adults Rockin' Dessert Bar. The and Children's Theatre. theme for this year is "Art The latter is offered to Center Place’s wildly popular Rocks Comedy!" Attire is Wild Dame Night will be held on children and may be the Saturday, February 23. This casual. Attendees are only time some children year’s theme is “Art Rocks encouraged to wear their Comedy.” Get your tickets now get to see live theatre. favorite concert T-shirt Center Place is a as they sell out quickly. This is a fun way to support the arts. and jeans, or dress as registered non-profit. your favorite rock star. The organization was established in "Art Rocks Comedy" is a night of 1976, and since that time they have been music and laughs starring Kier. You will devoted to supporting the fine arts as well laugh at his great stand-up and spot-on as civic involvement. They support the musical impressions. Along with his Rock arts through instruction and hosting Impressions, a highlight of the show is events that feature exhibits of art. The Kier's History of Rock Guitar Riffs. Kier's next art exhibit will be the Third Annual impressions include Sting, Springsteen, Square's Off, a national art competition. U2, Neil Young and many more. Center Place is located at 619 Lisa Rodriguez, Director of Marketing Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. To get your for Center Place said, "With each year tickets to this year's Wild Dame Night, comes a new theme for the ALL Ladies please visit Center Place Monday through Night Out. The year is 'Art Rocks Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or call 685Comedy' with internationally known gui8888. For more information on all of tarist/comedian Kier. It will be a great Center Place's events, please visit night of music and laughs." www.centerplacebrandon.org.

cleared by FWC to be returned back into the wild. The center also includes a state-ofthe-art sea turtle surgery suite. “We believe we have a responsibility to be good stewards of our environment and the animals that depend on it, and this investment will only help us further our mission of protecting and restoring our fragile blue planet,” Germann added. The Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center

By Kathy L. Collins

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A ribbon-cutting was recently held to welcome the Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center.

The Florida Aquarium officially opened its $4.1 million Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in January in Apollo Beach. The two-story, 19,000 sq. ft. center features five different rehabilitation pools including one of the state’s deepest turtle-exclusive dive pool with observation window. “We rescue sea turtles from around Florida and beyond, but during winter months, there is a growing need for more animal care facilities to rehabilitate cold stunned sea turtles,” said The Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Germann. “This center is opening at the right time, and The Florida Aquarium will be able to dramatically increase the number of sea turtles it cares for during the year.” The pools at the new care center range in size from 1,500 to 25,000 gallons. The sea turtle dive pool, which reaches a depth of 11 ft., will be used to assess buoyancy issues, swim conditioning and food trials before turtles are

was made possible through a unique public-private partnership consisting of groups who all shared the same common goal of working to achieve and maintain healthy sea turtle populations. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) contributed $3 million, The Spurlino Foundation and others donated $690,000. The Florida Aquarium contributed more than $400,000 and TECO Energy helped make through a generous land use agreement. “We are grateful to continue to expand our partnership with such a world class facility like The Florida Aquarium,” said FWC Executive Director Eric Sutton. Since inception, The Florida Aquarium has helped rescue and rehab more than 150 threatened or endangered turtles.

Page 12

Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

WE LOVE SOLD SIGNS! Can we help you move in 2019? It's what we do best! LD

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Page 13

Valrico Edition

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Page 14

Valrico Edition

Wild Game Night Provides ‘Guys Night Out’ To Support Local Charities

By Michelle Colesanti

Local men are venue located at invited to the Rotary 8407 Lupton Pl. off Club of Brandon’s Keysville Rd. in 41st Annual ‘Wild Plant City. Game Night’ on As in past Friday, March 8 from years, a highlight of 6-10 p.m. This stag the evening is the event has been chance to win thouaround since 1978, sands of dollars’ attracting men worth of items throughout the bay through silent aucarea; giving them a tions, raffle and door chance to gather for Rotarian member John Sellers stands in prizes, which will a ‘wild’ night of fun. front of the guns that were auctioned and feature great huntraffled off at a previous Wild Game Night. ing, fishing and You will enjoy sampling a variety sports-related items. of expertly prepared wild game, Two years ago Wild which in the past has included Game Night featured special venison, quail and wild hog as guests Jon & Gina Brunson, well as barbeque provided by hosts of the Outdoor Lupton’s. Authentic Ybor City Channel’s Addicted to the cigars will be rolled on-site for Outdoors. purchase, and can be enjoyed All proceeds from Wild with a drink from the open bar Game Night are donated to stocked with top-shelf liquors. local charities, including Boys According to JJ Massaro, over 600 & Girls Club in Riverview, Brandon Sports people are expected to attend. In the & Aquatic Center, Boy Scouts of America, past, this event has raised over $65,000. The Outreach Clinic, ECHO, Good He said, “It’s a fun night for everyone who Samaritan Mission and Grow Into You attends, and what makes it extra special Foundation. is the money we raise at the event helps Donations for tickets are $100 and our local community.” are available from any Brandon Rotary The event offers a rare chance to get Club member or through together with friends. Many a friendship www.eventbrite.com/e/wild-game-dinerhas been rekindled by meeting a long-lost tickets-30047296272. friend at this event. There are even For tickets or more information, conrumors that this event has helped close tact Joe Campoamor at 748-2076 or many a business transaction as well. jcampoamor@integrityft.com. For more The event starts at 6 p.m. at Lupton’s information on Brandon Rotary, visit Boggy Bottom Ranch, a wooded outdoor www.brandonrotary.org.

Volume 16, Issue 2

February 2019

Page 15

Valrico Edition

As Busch Gardens® Celebrates 60 Years, Enjoy 52 Weeks Of Special Events Including Wallenda Duo, Concerts, Ballroom Dance & More

Staff Report

There is more to explore Throughout 2019, than ever before at Busch park guests can enjoy Gardens Tampa Bay in 2019. can’t-miss events for all New this year, park guests can tastes and ages, includenjoy fan favorite events ing the following fan EVERY week of 2019 as a part favorites: of the park’s 60thAnniversary Sesame Street celebration. Guests can enjoy Safari of Fun Kids’ the celebration all year with Weekends on Saturdays great deals on park admission, and Sundays, February including BOGO Fun Cards– 2-10, May 4-19, and purchase a Busch Gardens October 5-27. Fun Card and receive an Food & Wine Adventure Island Fun Card for Festival on select dates FREE–and a FREE Preschool from March 16-April 28. Card available for children age Guy Harvey five and younger. Weekends on With a nostalgic nod to the Saturdays and park’s roots as a brewery, Sundays, May 11 & 12, guests ages 21 and older can Dec. 7 & 8; enjoy two complimentary beer Jack Hanna samples each day of 2019 at Weekend on Saturday Serengeti Outlook Pub and and Sunday, May 18 & Restaurant and Garden Gate 19; Café. The cold brews will proSummer Nights vide the perfect accompaninightly from May 31ment to a day at the park. Valid August 11; Busch Gardens Celebrates 60 years of providing fun and entertainment. Enjoy 52 weeks of special events identification is required for age Fall & Holiday Favorites, throughout 2019. verification. Real Music, Real including: Bier Fest – a unique Cirque Vertigo featuring the Ballroom with a Twist: Masters Monday–Saturday, January blend of food and favorite craft beers 7–March 16 Wallenda Duo: February 11–16 from around the world and local The longest-running concert series favorites; Howl-O-Scream*, celebratMarch 11–16 The 5th Dimension: at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has ing 20 years this fall, there is nowhere Herman’s Hermits starring February 18–23 returned again with incredible live to hide at Howl-O-Scream 2019; and Peter Noone: January 28– Eaglemania: The World’s music and entertainment spanning Christmas Town, with millions of twinfrom the 1950s to today. Daily perFebruary 2 Greatest Ealges Tribute Band: kling lights and festive shows. formances at the park’s Stanleyville For more information, visit the The Diamonds: February 25–March 2 Theater include the following worldBusch Gardens Tampa Bay website February 4–9 Lorrie Morgan: March 4–9 https://buschgardens.com/tampa. class acts:

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Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

La Septima Café In Brandon Continues To Bring Ybor Style Flair

By Tatiana Ortiz

A local eatery in the city of Brandon continues to bring its Ybor City style home cooking taste to the tables of its diners as it reaches being in operation for 24 years. Dahlia Fernandez and Starting on the her husband left: R.J. Ron Fernandez, Fernandez, Dahlia who own La Fernandez, Septima Café, Jennifer offer a blend of Mussenden and Ron Fernandez. the Spanish, Cuban and Italian cultures into all of its dishes. On February 9, 1995, La Septima Café became established. As the restaurant outgrew its original space on Parsons Avenue, a better opportunity arose for it to relocate to the La Viva Plaza in 2011. It can now seat more than 100 guests comfortably. To add, La Septima Café closed in its patio to give it more of an industrial appeal, along with expanding the dining room another 32 seats and gained a private dining room with 24 seats in it too. Dahlia said she is pleased about the newer location. “The transition worked out great as we received more parking; a full bar and new customers from the south side of Brandon, the FishHawk and River Hills communities,” Dahlia said.

La Septima Café also offers a wide variety of foods and beverages. For those dining here for the first time, Dahlia recommends ordering a dish called ‘Walk Around La Septima,’ which costs $16.85. It consists of a sampling of the house favorites such as Ropa Vieja, Picadillo and more. La Septima also provides a daily lunch special menu from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It also serves an array of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages that includes coffee, soft drinks, wine and more. La Septima Café also offers off-site catering, delivery through Mobile Meals and takeout ,just to name a few. “Overall, we have a history with our community and appreciate all of the support,” Dahlia said. For more information, visit La Septima’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LaSeptimaCafe/ or please visit the website at http://laseptimacafe.com/index.shtm. It is located at 702 West Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Call 685-0502.

Se Habla Español

February 2019

ee r F , w o h Talent S ars n i m e S l a Financi & More…

Page 17

Valrico Edition

is required, but a reservation is requested by Friday, March 1. The Luncheon will take place at Bell Shoals Baptist Church in The Special Event , Center, 2102 Bell ti n sa elle Cole h ic M Shoals Rd. in y db m Compile preyobserver.co Brandon. The cost s @o michelle is $15 and firsttime guests pay $10. Please make a reservation with Lillie at Breakfast For Dinner 940-0098. The Holy Innocents’ Chapter of Calling All Performers Brotherhood of St. Andrew is hostFor Impact’s Got ing a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Talent Show Dinner. Join in for a fun evening of fellowship and pancakes on Mark your calendar Tuesday, March 5. Dinner, which for Friday, April 12 for the includes pancakes (all you care to fifth annual Impact’s Got eat), sausage and a beverage, will Talent fundraising event be served from 5-8 p.m. The cost is based off the hit televi$5 per person with a max of $15 per sion show America’s Got family. All proceeds will benefit com- Talent. The family-friendly munity service projects of the event kicks off at 6:30 Brotherhood of St. Andrews. The p.m. at Bloomingdale event will be held at Holy Innocents High School, located at 1700 Episcopal Church, 604 N. Valrico Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. The Rd. in Valrico. Please contact the grand prize is $250. church during normal business Admission is $10 per person hours at 689-3130 for more informa- and is available on Eventbrite.com. tion. The evening will also feature a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. All Enjoy Designer Fashions At ticket sales benefit the Impact proBrandon Christian Women’s gram, which promotes healthy Connection Next Luncheon lifestyles and relationships to teens, The Brandon Christian Women's parents, teachers and other youth leaders through classroom educaConnection March Luncheon will tion and its teen summer staff profeature 'Designer Fashions by gram. Debbie' on Monday, March 11 from Auditions will be held on 11 a.m.-1 p.m. This is a fashion Sunday, March 3 from 1–5 p.m. at show for all ladies. No membership

The Venue, located at 11268 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Participation is for those in grades K-12 with all acts three minutes or under. Performances include but are not limited to: vocalists, actors, dancers (solo, duets and groups) and musicians. To sign up for an audition time, please contact Jennifer Crum at 863-661-3236 or crummiej@tampabay.rr.com. Contestants selected

for the event will be asked to pay a registration fee of $15 per person (solos & duets), and $10 per person for groups of three or more to help offset the cost of trophies and prizes. To be an event sponsor, contact Angie Kagey at 264-9368 or akagey@whatisimpact.com. For more information, visit Impact’s Got Talent 2019 Facebook Event page or www.whatisimpact.com.

financial services, including life insurance, annuities and investments on March 6. Toni Stanaland, an independent insurance agent, Linda Walker, of Poppell Insurance, Inc., and Mark McDade, of Accurate Insurance Solutions, will talk about health care services on March 13. This includes health plans under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), short-term health plans that were recently approved, Medicare and faith-based healthcare alternatives. Group insurance and Medicaid will also be discussed. Jon Poppell of Poppell Insurance, Inc. will be talking about personal insurance on March 27. This includes homeowner's insurance, automobile insurance and umbrella policies. Renters insurance and motorcycle insurance will also be discussed. Finally, Chuck Jenning, of Acentria Insurance will discuss commercial (business) insurance on April 3. There will be no meeting on March 20 (spring break). The seminars are free and open to the public. If you plan to attend, please call the church office at 6891204. Free childcare is available if needed. The seminars are sponsored by the First Baptist Brandon

Public Invited To Attend Free Financial Seminars

A group of financial seminars are being presented this spring at First Baptist Church of Brandon. All seminars are will be held on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the dining hall (building A on the SE corner of N. Moon Ave. & W. Sadie St.). Tom Loudermilk of Loudermilk Financial Group will talk about

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Valrico Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

rten a g r e d Kin n& o i t c u p, A More… u d n u o R t & olesanti, h g i N Trivia iled by MichelleveCr.com

annual auction Fundraiser To Help South on Saturday, County Spartans Athletic February 23 at League O’Brien’s Irish A fundraiser will be held Pub & Grill, for the South County located at Spartans Athletic League on 701 W Saturday, March 16 at 4 p.m. r p bse Com spreyo o Lumsden @ e at Cutter’s Cigars, located at ll miche Rd. in 715 W. Lumsden Ave. in Brandon. Brandon. The Bantner Law The community is Firm is the presenting sponinvited to sor and Minuteman Press is come out the ticket sponsor. Tickets Valrico Elementary School To and have are $20 and entitle each purHold Its Kindergarten Roundup some fun chaser to one free beer and Families living in the area surwhile helping one free premium cigar. rounding Valrico Elementary School the Band There will also be raffle items who have a child turning 5 by and Color and a silent auction presentSouth County Spartans Young girls Cheer Squad. September 1 are invited to its Guard raise ed by Socially Funded. Kindergarten Roundup on Thursday, port the team every step of the way. funds for For more information, please March 7 at 5 p.m. “Our band is a major factor (when much needcontact Adam Bantner at 416-7965 or Two proofs of residency, shot they travel with us also) and does an ed musical email the organizer record, original birth certificate and incredible job of playing very loudly instruments and equipment upgrades. at Adam@TampaCrimeAttorneys.com physical (dated August 12, 2018 or and making it difficult on our oppoThe event begins at 4 p.m. with a to purchase tickets. after) will need to be pronent,” said former Head Coach Max silent auction will vided for enrollment. Warner. include a trivia 500 Volunteers Needed For 2019 Partial enrollment inforBusiness donations are welcome night beginning Point In Time Count mation will be accepted for the silent auction. Contact Brandye at 5 p.m. The Tampa Hillsborough at the Roundup. Fenn at 841-9090 or rajunbullThe silent Homeless Initiative (THHI) is looking Kindergarten band@mail.com. auction will confor 500 volunteers to participate in Roundup will take place tinue between the 2019 Point-in-Time Count, which in the Multi Purpose TIES AND TIARAS DaddyTrivia rounds. will take place from 7 a.m.-8 p.m. on Room at Valrico Daughter Dance The cost is Thursday, February 28. In partnerElementary School, 609 Dads, throw on your favorite tie $10 per person ship with Hillsborough County and S. Miller Rd. in Valrico. and come enjoy a special evening of (up to six players the City of Tampa, the 2019 Point-inFor more information, call dinner and dancing with your little per team). There Time Count is a systematic plan 744-6777 or visit princess at Campo Y’s daddy-daughwill be prizes, where volunteers will provide a snaphttp://valrico.mysdhc.org. ter dance on Saturday, February 16 50/50, Mulligans shot of the homeless population by from 7:30-9:30 p.m. From photo and more. counting homeless residents in All Welcome To Silent Auction opportunities to moving your two left Last year, as the Bloomingdale Hillsborough County. And Trivia Night Benefitting feet with Daddy’s Girl, you and your Bulls football team made school histoVolunteers will be deployed in Rajun’ Bull Band daughter are sure to create a special ry making it to the third round of the two shifts (7 a.m. -12 Noon and 3-8 The Bloomingdale Senior High memory that will last a lifetime. Join playoffs, the Rajun’ Bull Marching p.m.) from Brandon, Downtown School Rajun’ Bull Band is hosting its us! Dinner and dessert buffet will be Band & Color Guard was there to supTampa, Plant City, Ruskin, Town 'N provided along with dancing, games Country, West Tampa, Westshore, and more. and the University Area. Sign up to The cost is $25 (additional child is volunteer here. Since 2014, THHI $6.25). The cost for non-members is has joined with federal, state, local, $40 (additional child $10). and private entities to develop effecCampo Y is located at 3414 tive strategies toward ending homeCulbreath Rd. in Valrico. Contact lessness. Volunteers can also particiKaliegh Hincman at pate by hosting a toiletry drive to colKaliegh.Hincman@tampaymca.org. lect hygiene items that will be distributed to the homeless residents dur• Trust & Wills Better Living For Seniors ing the Point-in-Time Count, making Quarterly Meeting • Probate/Guardianship a monetary donation toward the On Tuesday, February 22 from Point-in-Time Count that will help • Elder Law 9:45-11 a.m., you are invited to the fund efforts to end homelessness in Better Living for Seniors Meeting, • Business Formation Hillsborough County and sharing with which will be about the Legal friends and family about the need for • Contracts & Real Estate Considerations for Seniors & Their volunteers and donations for Point-inCaregivers. Networking begins at 8:30 Time Count. • Asset Protection a.m. and the meeting starts at 9 a.m. Anyone under 18 must be in high It will take place at the Senior school and accompanied by a parent Connection Center, 8928 Brittany Way or legal guardian during the entire Personal Attention in Tampa. Members are free and nonvolunteer shift. For more information, 40 Years of Experience members pay $5 cash at the door. All visit thhi.org/2019pit or call 223-6115. are welcome. Conveniently Located

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February 2019

Page 19

Valrico Edition

County Advises Distance & Leashes On Pets To Avoid Urban Coyotes

LifeCare Network’s Annual Golf Tournament With Helicopter Drop

Bloomingdalevores is the best proarea residents tection against having recently had the problems.” opportunity to FWC suggests that learn about one of if a coyote approaches, Florida’s most residents should immefeared residents. diately use a noisemakThe Florida Fish er or shout at the aniand Wildlife mal and wave their Commission arms. A solid walking (FWC) and stick or golf club is a Hillsborough powerful deterrent at County invited close range, but throwinterested citizens ing stones, a strong to the spray from a water Bloomingdale hose, pepper spray or Library last month a paintball gun can also to learn about coyotes and how to The Florida Fish and react if one is seen Wildlife Commission in both urban and recently hosted a meeting at the rural areas. Bloomingdale Library According to for residents interested Melody Kilborn, in learning more about coyotes. FWC Public Information Coordinator, the meeting provided attendees with information about living with coyotes, basic coyote biology, tips on how to reduce humanwildlife conflict and protecting pets from coyotes. “Coyotes have been reported in all 67 Florida counties and every state in the country with the exception of Hawaii,” said Kilborn. “Coyote sightings in and of themselves should not be alarming; however, unusual coyote behavior should be reported to your nearest FWC Regional Office.” work. In addition, a ‘coyote shaker’ can Examples of unusual coyote behavbe made by placing a few washers, pebior include a coyote that has lost its fear bles or pennies in an empty drink conof humans and is approaching people, tainer. chasing joggers or bikers or attacking But Kilborn’s number one suggesleashed pets, she added. tion is that residents not allow dogs or The meeting, which was led by a cats to roam freely. FWC Senior Wildlife Assistance “Most coyote attacks on pets occur Biologist, was scheduled after neighboreither at night or in the early evening hood leaders reached out to and early morning hours,” she said. Hillsborough County Pet Resources to “During those times especially, be careask FWC to educate residents on coyful if you’re going to walk your pet in otes. wooded areas or areas where there are “The FWC works closely with parta lot of other plants growing, which could ners to provide assistance and informaconceal coyotes. Also, keep your dog tion about fish and wildlife in Florida,” close on a short leash that is less than said Kilborn. six feet. Keep cats indoors. When cats Along with basic information about roam freely, their risk of injury from coythe animals and their habits, the meeting otes, domestic dogs and other threats is spent time focusing on keeping pets greatly increased.” safe from coyotes. For more information on coyotes, “Coyotes are not large animals and visit https://myfwc.com/conservation/yourarely pose a threat to people, especially conserve/wildlife/coyotes/. Residents adults,” said Kilborn. “Using common who suspect there is a coyote in their sense around coyotes and other carniarea should call FWC at (863) 648-3200.

The LifeCare God’s plan for marannual golf tourriage. nament will be The ministry held on Friday, offers a compreMarch 8 at the hensive approach River Hills to women and Country Club in men facing pregValrico. Check-in nancy decisions. begins at 11 a.m. Through its pregand is followed nancy medical clinby lunch and a ics called Choices helicopter golf Women’s Center, ball drop. The LifeCare adminisshotgun start is at ters an average of 12:45 p.m. 50 pregnancy tests The registraeach month, lifeWith contests like ‘The Longest Drive’ spread tion fee is $150 affirming ultrathroughout the course, golfers have multiple opportunities to win prizes while raising money sounds and ongoper person and for a worthy cause. includes golfing, ing support. lunch, dinner, a Dri-Fit polo shirt, goodie “The Lord uses these resources as a bags and contests along the golf course. tool and incentive to draw these families The contests provide participants with back to our center where we have the opportunities to win cash prizes and trips. opportunity to build a relationship with The helicopter drop, a favorite among them to share Christ and disciple these the contestants, will drop golf balls from parents as they learn to trust God and the sky. The participant with the golf ball His plan for their future," explained closet to the target wins. The suggested Jessica Rickenbach, the development donation for the golf ball drop is $10 per director for LifeCare. ball. LifeCare educates each woman who “The LifeCare golf tournament is an comes in for a pregnancy test on aborevent I look forward to each year,” said tion, adoption and parenting. Its services Pastor Dan Reid, the chairman of are always free of charge, confidential, LifeCare’s Board of Directors. “It’s a and available to everyone. For more chance to play some great golf and supinformation about LifeCare, visit port a really great cause.” www.LifeCareNetwork.net. The fundraising event supports the Contact Jessica Rickenbach at LifeCare Network, which exists to lead Jessica@LifeCareNetwork.net or 654those they serve to know Christ, protect 0491. The River Hills Country Club is the sanctity of human life and promote located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in biblically based sexuality according to Valrico.

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Page 20

Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

NEW TO THE MARKET

Flight To Honor Schedules Fifth Mission For D.C. Daytrip

By Stacy Huisman

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Flight to Honor of Polk Veterans Council is sponsoring its fifth mission to fly war veterans to visit national war memorials in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, April 30. The flight will depart from and return to Lakeland International Airport for the one-day visit to Washington D.C. Established in 2013, Flight to Honor is a local area program modeled after the national Honor Flight program. Its mission is to safely transport area veterans to Washington D.C. to visit the memorials built in their honor for their service to our country. Flight to Honor also offers an opportunity for the community, both young and old, to express their appreciation for the service of WWII, Korean and Vietnam veterans by celebrating their homecoming. Flight to Honor will fly 180 veterans and guardians to the nation’s capital for the fifth mission since 2013. All veterans are eligible to apply. The flight is free to veterans, and all veterans are eligible as long as they have not been on a previous flight. Gary Clark, Chairman of Flight to Honor and veteran, leads the charge in planning, organizing and executing these trips. Clark has been with Polk

Veterans Council for 20 years and has led Flight to Honor since its inception. “A veteran, his name was Ted, and his whole desire was to go on an Honor Flight. Ted was one of four brothers. Two of his brothers were killed during WWII, while him and his other brother came home. Two of his brother-in-laws were also killed in WWII. All Ted wanted to do was visit the memorial to validate what he had done in Normandy. Two days before Veterans Day last year, he was 97 years old and in the hospital. I went to see him. He told me not to tell to his wife, but that the Honor Flight was the greatest day of his life. He passed away later that evening.” Clark encourages the public to donate and support these special oneday trips. Whether through volunteering for orientation, sponsoring a veteran or becoming guardian, there are many ways the public can help. He also encourages the community to welcome home returning flights. If you are a veteran or know of a veteran that would be interested in April’s Flight to Honor, applications are now being accepted online at www.polkveteranscouncil.com, or email FlighttoHonorPolk@gmail.com.

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Newsome Hosts Distracted Driving Event, ‘Trauma Is No Accident’ By Kate Quesada Newsome Office will High School stualso be on dents will get a site offering dose of reality information this month. The and will disschool is hosting play a vehia distracted drivcle at the ing event on school that Tuesday, was wrecked February 26 due to disNewsome High School is hosting a distracted titled ‘Trauma is tracted drivdriving event, which is open to the public, on Tuesday, February 26 at 6:30 p.m. No Accident’ to ing. teach students and parents the dangers “The vehicle is an impactful stateof distracted driving that can lead to ment reminding teens visually of the accidents and physical trauma to others. results of distracted driving,” said According to Peggy Clarkson with Clarkson. John Clarkson Allstate, whose office is Attendees will be able to pick up sponsoring the event, the program is literature, including student and teen presented by More Health and the driving contracts, and during the event, Newsome PTA and is open to the public. residents will be asked to take a Families with children of all ages are pledge not to text and drive. There will invited to attend. also be a raffle from Clarkson Allstate “It is all about focusing on the road,” and giveaways. said Clarkson. “Cell phones, music, food “As a local insurance agency, we and friends are distractions that can lead want to provide awareness and help to trauma.” everyone stay safe on our roads,” said During the event, an interactive Clarkson. “Every day, we talk to teens game will show students how simple and parents on safe driving and want tasks, coupled with driving, become everyone in our community to undercomplex and dangerous. stand that what you do behind the “Factual stories and simulations wheel of a car can change your life emphasize the importance of wearing and someone else’s forever. We all a seatbelt and not texting or drinking have seen the increase of accidents and driving,” said Clarkson, who startdaily and we can do our own part in ed sponsoring the event in the fall of driving safely with no distractions.” 2017. “Students and parents gain an The event will take place February understand of brain and spinal cord 26 at 6:30 p.m. in the Newsome auditoinjuries and the process of rehabilitarium, located at 16550 FishHawk Blvd. tion.” in Lithia. For information, call Clarkson The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s at 263-2994 or the school at 740-4600.

Page 21

Page 22

Valrico Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

Goodson Farms Strawberry Market Offers Delicious Berries & Treats During Season

Compost, Microirrigation And Rainwater Harvesting Workshops At Extension

said, “The market is open for business now through March, when the strawberry season ends.” Goodson added, “We are happy to provide a great place for families to come have a shortcake with us.” Goodson Farms was started in 1979 by Don and Janet Goodson. Don passed away in 2003 and Janet in 2011. Since then, their sons, Mike and Ricky, along with Jessica, have owned and operated the family business. Goodson Farms consists of approximately 1,500 acres, which stretches over areas of Southern Hillsborough County and Northern Manatee County. The current market location was opened in 2006. Prior to

If you have not pretion conserves water viously attended these and is excluded from three workshops on a our current watering Saturday at the restrictions. By attendUniversity of Florida ing, you will receive a Institute of Food and microirrigation kit. Agricultural Sciences Learn how to har(UF/IFAS) Extension vest rainwater with a Hillsborough County, we Rain Barrel made from hope you will attend, a 55-gallon plastic food and you will be in for an grade drum. Recycling educational feast. Make food grade barrels is plans to register and useful in collecting rainspend an upcoming water for ornamental Compost Happens is one of three Saturday morning, plant irrigation while workshops offered in upcoming March 2, April 6, May 4, reducing erosion and months and is open to Hillsborough County residents. June 1 or July 13, at the stormwater runoff. One Compost, Microirrigation and Rainwater inch of rain on a 1,000 square foot of roof Harvesting workshops at its office in provides 623 gallons of water. In our Seffner. Workshops are for Hillsborough area, we receive 50-52 inches of rain per County residents, one time only, one set year. This means all of us could harvest of items per household and pre-registrain excess of 31,000 gallons of water for tion is required. landscape irrigation instead of using If you want to learn how to create potable water. By attending, you will your own compost, attend the Compost receive a drilled and spigoted rain barrel. Happens workshop and learn how to turn By attending one, two or all three trash into treasure. This workshop teachworkshops, you will expand your environes attendees to recycle kitchen and yard mental conservation education and have waste while creating a rich soil amendfun while learning something new. Cost to ment. Compost adds nutrients to the soil attend is $5 per household, per workand retains moisture in the root zone shop. For additional information and to where it can be used by plants. Instead of register, visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborhauling your yard waste to the curb, com- ough/upcoming-events/. Workshops are post it on-site. By attending, you will sponsored by UF/IFAS Extension receive a compost bin and thermometer. Hillsborough County, Tampa Bay Water, Come to a Microirrigation workshop, City of Tampa Water Department and which teaches you how to have a healthy Hillsborough County Public Utilities. and attractive landscape while conserving Call 744-5519, or visit 5339 CR 579 water. Tips on installing and using microir- in Seffner where Florida-Friendly rigation are presented. Using miroirrigaLandscaping™ can be seen in action!

By Kathy L. Collins

Goodson Farms and Strawberry Market sells its strawberry pizza by the slice. For a whole strawberry pizza, customers need to call ahead.

Goodson Farms Strawberry Market, located at 12406 County Road 672 E in Balm, is now open for the 2019 Strawberry Season. A recent visit to the farm and market revealed a bustling, attractive, family-friendly market. At Goodson Farms Strawberry Market, you can do your weekly produce shopping and get a delicious treat to eat. There is plenty of outdoor seating available. The prize attraction is, of course, the delicious strawberries. In addition to the quarts and half flats of delicious, juicy and sweet Goodson Farms and Strawberry Market in strawberries which are picked fresh Balm sells some of the juiciest, most delicious and sweetest strawberries around the area. daily, the market offers other farm Do not miss your opportunity to try them fresh produce such as potatoes, before the season is over in March or early cauliflower, tomatoes and greens. April. They also offer different flavored that, produce and strawberries were syrups and jarred, pickled items such sold from a small roadside stand as okra. which was located at the intersection Prices are quite reasonable. Half of Balm Riverview Rd. and County flats of strawberries are just $12 and Road 672. quarts are $3.50. Goodson Farms and Strawberry However, the thing that brings Market is open Monday through people from all over is the café, Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The which offers sandwiches, drinks and market is open only seasonally until desserts. The desserts, all strawberStrawberry Season ends in March or ry-based of course, include cake, early April. If you want to taste strawmilkshakes, strawberry pizza, strawberries when they are at their ripest, berry sundaes and strawberry shortmost delectably juicy state, then take cakes. On the day I visited, there a ride to Balm and see for yourself. were over 100 people in line for deliFor more information, please call cious treats. 634-7790 and like Goodson Farms Goodson Farms Strawberry Strawberry Market on Facebook. Market Manager Jessica Goodson

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Page 23

Valrico Edition

9/11 First Responder, FBI Agent And Corvette Enthusiast To Appear At Winter AutoFest As Carlisle Events gears up for its annual Winter Florida AutoFest event at the SUN ‘n FUN Campus in Lakeland, the focus has been on Corvettes, Mustangs and all things automotive. Known for its mantra of ‘The Cars, The People and The Weslie Wong, a 9/11 Excitement,’ the first responder and car minds behind this enthusiast, will appear great event, which at Carlisle Winter Florida AutoFest on takes place Friday Saturday, February to Sunday, 23. February 22-24, are pleased to announce that Wesley Wong will attend. Who is Wesley Wong? Quite simply, he is an amazing man with impeccable credentials and a lifetime of stories, many of which tie back to his involvement with rescue and recovery on September 11, 2001. He was one of the first on-scene during the terror attacks and was famously photographed along with NYFD members carrying NYFD Chaplin Mychal Judge from the rubble. Judge is recognized as the first known victim of the attacks. A decorated FBI agent, Wong serves on the board of the National Corvette Museum (NCM) and the NCM Motorsports Park and is a car lover. Retired in 2006, he now works in the pri-

Staff Report

vate sector and is currently a Senior Advisor to the Special Operations Command, headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base (AFB), in Tampa and the Joint Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Wong will appear not only at private VIP functions, but publicly at 9:45 a.m. on the front end of

Memory Care Available! Carlisle Auctions second day of action, Saturday, February 23. This, plus so much more, will be part of Winter Florida AutoFest. Event Hours for the AutoFest are Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission is $10 on Friday and Saturday and $5 on Sunday. An event pass is $15. Kids 12 and under are free. Carlisle Events is a partner or producer of 12 annual collector car and truck events. Events are held at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds (Carlisle, PA), Allentown Fairgrounds (Allentown, PA) and the SUN ‘N FUN Campus (Lakeland, FL). Learn more via www.CarlisleEvents.com and see it firsthand in Lakeland.

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Valrico Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

In This Section

Valrico

SPORTS CONNECTION. ...................PG 28 SUPPORT HONOR FLIGHTS.............PG 31 RECORD HIGH GRAD RATES............PG 32 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 34 February 2019

Volume 16, Issue 2

Ph: 657-2418

Medi-Weightloss® Can Help You Achieve A Healthy Weight

The MediWeightloss® Program is not just another diet, it is a PhysicianSupervised 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, such as: Screening for and management of obesity and metabolic syndrome (adults and adolescents age 12-18), medical nutrition therapy/counseling for healthy diet, behavioral counseling, fitness recommendations, cholesterol screening, screening for Type 2 diabetes and screening for high blood pressure. Medi-Weightloss® is located at 203 W. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. Call 877-MED-LOSS or visit www.mediweightloss.com.

Tom Gallo Law’s New Location

Are your legal affairs in order? Will your family be provided for when you are no longer able to do so? Have you set up a plan for your family that will adequately provide for them? Thomas J. Gallo, Attorney, P.A., offers complimentary consultations to help you determine the best course of action for you and your loved ones. You are invited to schedule your complimentary consultation. Gallo can help you answer questions and help you plan to protect and provide for your family. He is committed to the welfare of his clients and providing peace of mind about their estate planning. He takes

VISIT THE STRAZ .............................PG 35 ient and comfortable. It offers breast and bone density screenings for women of all risk categories. This includes the latest 3D mammograRashah Davis, Inspired Mobile Fitness and Dr. Robert Lutz, phy, breast Motion ChiroTherapy now share office space to help you biopsy, ultracare for all of your health and wellness needs. Plant City Imaging sound and makes women’s imagthe time necessary to DEXA bone densitometry. ine convenient and educate and inform his comfortable. Plant City Imaging outpatient cenclients so they underter is comfortable and easily accessistand and make decisions that are best ble, with a focus on ease of scheduling suited for them individually. and patient service that is just as Tom Gallo Law is now located at important to patients as quality of care. 2240 Lithia Center Lane in Valrico. Call For women who are uninsured or who 815-4529 or email Thomas@tomgallohave high deductibles, prices for these law.com. quality services are far less than they would pay at a hospital. Women’s Services At Plant City Plant City Imaging is located at Imaging 206 W. Alexander St., Ste 1 in Plant For women, medical imaging has City. For appointment scheduling, call become a routine part of life. When we 863-688-2334. For other inquiries, call are younger, it can mean prenatal the office at 750-1724. Visit ultrasound to monitor a pregnancy. As www.risimaging.com. we age, it takes the form of mammograms, bone density screenings and Motion ChiroTherapy Welcomes other tests so that we can proactively Inspired Mobile Fitness manage our health. Motion ChiroTherapy recently welPlant City Imaging has not only comed Inspired Mobile Fitness, which made women’s imaging a priority, the offers small group personal training, priprocess has been made more convenContinued on Next Page

Page 26

Valrico Edition

competitors. Products offered include water softeners, reverse osmosis, water coolers and shower filters. Water Filter Warehouse is located at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. It is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, call 877-2470624 or visit TheWaterFilterWarehouse.com.

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

By Michelle Colesanti

vate training and in-home training. Owner Rashah Davis offers a private studio where trainers can focus on delivering life-changing results to the individuals served. It combines a science-based approach to exercise and nutrition, with a creative art of programming fun, actionpacked workouts that deliver great results. Now that it shares a roof with Motion ChiroTherapy and a Licensed Massage Therapist, this is truly a ‘one stop shop’ for all your health and wellness needs. Dr. Robert Lutz of Motion ChiroTherapy is a rehab based, sports chiropractor who wants to relieve your pain as quickly as possible while restoring better biomechanics offering solutions

cruises to land excursions and all inclusive. For more information, please call Jenifer Breaux of Dream Vacations at 667-7000 or visit www.JBVacationPros.com.

Secondhand Savvy Celebrates Rebrand To Savvy Consignment Boutique

Brandon’s long-standing consignment retailer, Secondhand Savvy, is now Savvy Consignment Boutique. After 12 years of operating as Secondhand Savvy, the upscale fashion boutique has rebranded and undergone a complete facelift. With a more sophisticated appearance and freshly organized layout, Savvy Consignment Boutique, Brandon’s only upscale fashion boutique, gives shoppers easier access to like-new luxury brands for a fraction of the retail price. The transformation reflects the owner’s desire to make the Savvy shopping Ribbon Cutting celebrates Dream Vacations three year anniversary. experience comparaunique to you that help you get back in ble to shopping at other major departmotion. ment stores (i.e. Nordstrom or Saks 5th “With the addition of Inspired Mobile Avenue). Fitness and a licensed massage theraItems are sold on consignment, with pist, we are now able to meet anyone’s 50% of its list price going to the original needs of ‘Pain to Performance’ under one owner. Inventory is hand-selected daily roof.” from the best wardrobes in the Tampa Both businesses are located at Bay area. Consignment intake is open 16765 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. Monday-Saturday, no appointment necFor more on Inspired Mobile Fitness, essary. call 352-213-1143 or visit inspiredmobileThe grand re-opening is Saturday, fitness.com. For more on Motion February 23 at 210 S. Kings Ave. in ChiroTherapy, call 793-7791 or visit Brandon. Champagne, hors d’oeuvres, motionchirotherapy.com. and in-store specials will be available from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For information and Dream Vacation’s Three Year details contact Shelbi at 643-6020.

Anniversary

Dream Vacations celebrated its third year in business with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Valrico FishHawk Chamber. The evening was a showcase of travel experiences for anyone interested in taking a cruise featuring a chair massage, photo booth, delicious food, a kid’s table and more, leaving guests with a sampling of what a typical cruise can provide their guests. Dream Vacations is waiting to match you with the vacation of your dreams from

Manatee Apparel Graphics Now Acts As E-Commerce And Fulfillment Service

Established in 1987, Manatee Apparel Graphics offers a wide variety of products and services: embroidery, screen printing, digital printing, sublimation, promotional items, banners, decorated tablecloths, decals, window clings and more. Owners Dennis and Linda Frey are excited to announce that they now offer E-Commerce and Fulfillment services to customers anywhere in the United States. For customers not currently selling

Volume 16, Issue 2

A ribbon cutting was recently held for Water Filter Warehouse.

online or wanting the hassle of it, Manatee Apparel builds and hosts their website, all orders flow through it, and orders are fulfilled anywhere in the US ensuring quality products and timely delivery. Quarterly customers are sent a check for their portion of the proceeds. The sites can be used for: school uniforms, civic organizations, clothing lines, small businesses, corporations, sporting organizations, musicians, and many more. For more information on Manatee Apparel call 866-413-8400 or check out the promotional video on YouTube at www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkYgbMf0Ufk. Manate Apparel is located at 6520 S. Hwy. 301 in Riverview and has another location at 1130 9th St. W. in Bradenton. Hours are Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.5:30 p.m. Visit www.manateeapparel.com or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manateeapparel.

Better Water Means Better Health

Water Filter Warehouse recently held a ribbon cutting with the Valrico FishHawk Chamber. It offers wholesale water filtration systems to the public. According to owner Dan Kelleher, it can save consumers thousands of dollars compared to

Stayton Law Group, P.A. Enjoys New Location

Stayton Law Group, P.A. works in all phases of the construction process, from document preparation through project completion and litigation. It provides contract drafting and negotiation, lien advice, claims preparation, and problemsolving. When those avenues are closed, clients are represented in litigation, including mediation and arbitration. The construction industry is dynamic and often difficult. General contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, sureties, insurers, owners, and architects and engineers operate in a legal environment, as well as on project sites. According to owner of the practice, Brian Stayton, Esq., “We are in business to help all participants in the construction industry successfully navigate through the legal issues.” He also noted, “If you come to our office, be prepared to meet our dogs too. We usually bring our Samoyeds to work.” Stayton has been a lawyer for almost 30 years. Stayton Law Group was formed in 2010 and recently moved to its new location at 3619 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 662-9829 or visit www.StaytonLawGroup.com.

February 2019

Page 27

Valrico Edition

Retiring Environmental Scientist Receives NOAA Award For Conservation By Libby Baldwin

After 31 years of estuarine, freshwater with the Southwest wetland and upland Florida habitats that will support Management plant and animal life for District, retiring decades to come. Chief Advisory “Ecosystems aren’t Environmental any single type of habiScientist Dr. Brandt tat; it’s a combination of Henningsen is many that collectively looking forward to provide opportunities for watching the lots of different wildlife,” Tampa Bay coastal said Dr. Henningsen. ecosystem thrive, “The goal is to put back thanks to 99 as much diversity and restoration projects complexity as we can Dr. Brandt Henningsen received the completed over the and then let nature take 2018 Dr. Nancy Foster Award for decades by his Habitat Conservation for his 31 years. the lead.” ‘SWIM’ team. The SWIM team SWIM, or Surface Water began in 1989 with just over an acre of Improvement and Management, is a salt marsh planted on a delta south of state-mandated program established by Port Manatee. In 2015, it completed its the Florida legislature in 1987. largest project ever, the Rock Ponds Dr. Henningsen, now 66 and living in Ecosystem Restoration project, which Wesley Chapel, was either project manestablished more than 1,000 acres of ager or co-manager for 58 of those 99 habitat mosaics. projects. His leadership has restored Its three land parcels, much of which nearly 3,000 acres around Tampa Bay. had been cleared for farmland or mining, “I’ve always really enjoyed what I’ve are now completely restored and linked had the opportunity to do,” he said. “I by either water or mangrove forests. found a niche that I found productive and Brand-new estuaries and wetlands was giving back something to Tampa Bay were also created, establishing habitats and the earth’s ecosystems in general.” ideally situated for birds, small woodland His efforts, it turns out, were not creatures and fish nurseries that will susgoing unnoticed. tain new populations of snook, redfish Dr. Henningsen received an unexand tarpon. pected retirement gift when he was Out of nearly 40 applicants for the awarded the 2018 Dr. Nancy Foster 2018 NOAA award, only two winners Award for Habitat Conservation by the were chosen, but Dr. Henningsen said National Oceanic and Atmospheric the credit should also go to Tampa Bay’s Administration (NOAA). long history of environmental activism “I am infinitely proud to have received and thousands of people working togeththis award,” said Dr. Henningsen of the er. honor, which recognizes exceptional “I’d like to think that the projects I achievement and dedication to habitat work on will endure way past when I conservation in the coastal and marine shuffle off this mortal coil, and will keep environment. “It was a major surprise.” being productive hopefully forever,” he SWIM has restored 7.2 square miles said. “I like the idea of leaving something of various coastal habitats, much of it behind.” completely wiped out beforehand. For information, visit the Southwest The team designed a restoration Florida Water Management District concept that Dr. Henningsen calls “restor- Website or www.watermatters.org. ing habitat mosaics,” using a combination

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Page 28

Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

Sports

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Connection By Nick Nahas and Photos courtesy of Marky Oliver

Former USF Football Player Brings Specially Fit Program To Special BSAC Athletes

Marky Oliver started Specially Fit last year.

Marky Oliver has always had an interest in helping people train to achieve their personal fitness goals. The former USF football player was working out of his Crossfit gym as a personal trainer when he noticed a client's son, a young man with Down Syndrome named Andrew. Oliver took an interest in Andrew and wanted to figure out a way to help train him. Oliver took Andrew on as a client and trained him for free. “I started training him and he touched my heart,” said Oliver. After a couple months of working with Oliver, Andrew invited him to the

Marky Oliver and his athletes for a powerlifting competition.

Special Olympics. It was there that Oliver realized his purpose — he wanted to help train people with autism and Down Syndrome. Oliver became a Special Olympics powerlifting coach and had tremendous success. He now has the largest powerlifting team in Hillsborough County. They just sent nine athletes to compete in Georgia at the National Powerlifting Championship. According to Oliver, over 60 percent of people with a disability are overweight. He said that this is due to a lack of resources and opportunity. He started

a program called Specially Fit that offers year-round workouts for people with special needs. They also provide yearround opportunities to compete in the Special Olympics for free. In less than five months, the program has grown from just one person to about 200. Oliver trains at six different locations in the Tampa area, including three days a week at the Brandon Swim and Aquatics Center. He plans on expanding to Orlando early this year. Oliver is currently training the athletes for the Special Olympic track and volleyball seasons.

Marky Oliver trains athletes, like Christian Wright, year-round for the Special Olympics.

“It means the world watching them smile, it brings more joy to me than I have ever had in my life, more than any personal, physical accomplishment,” said Oliver. “They have helped me so much more than I have helped them. They have changed my life in the way that I view things, and they make me a better person.” For information, or if you would like to donate or be a sponsor, visit the website at SpeciallyFitFoundation.com. Oliver is also on Facebook and Instagram at Specially Fit.

February 2019

Page 29

Valrico Edition

Custom Hair Tampa Bay Changes Lives By Restoring Confidence

Broadway Everyday Star Theater To Present The Original Play A Talent For Murder

With each increase in the number of strand of hair that male customers who fell from Apollo have stopped shaving Beach resident their heads and want hair Jim Klein’s head a again. bit of his self-confi“They want to wake dence fell with it. up in the morning with “I started loshair and we can offer ing hair on the top them that,” she said. of my head and it Younkman’s hair really made me solutions are attached look so much with surgical-grade adheolder than my sive, which means they Custom Hair Tampa Bay owner actual age,” he Lori Younkman has a hair loss solution stay in place for four to for men and women. said. “I hate hats six weeks. and didn’t want to shave my head com“Wash it, swim with it, go on a roller pletely so needed a solution to my probcoaster, you live your life and then come lem.” back to get it bonded again,” she said. One visit to Custom Hair Tampa Bay Younkman understands what it provided that solution. means for clients to have a full head of Specializing in non-surgical hair hair again. She is not only the owner but replacement solutions, a Custom Hair a client as well. Tampa Bay staff member met with Klein Founded in 1969, Custom Hair one-on-one in a private consultation Tampa Bay will be celebrating its 50th room. His head was measured, hair color year in business this year. It specializes in and texture matched, a hair system creat- solving hair loss challenges for both men ed and he walked out of the salon with a and women. Whether working with a full head of 100% human hair. client going through chemotherapy, helpKlein couldn’t be happier with the ing a teenager deal with trichotillomania results. or helping to restore someone’s confi“I’ve got the hair I used to have,” he dence after suffering for years with genetsaid. “It’s really increased my self-confiic hair loss, Custom Hair Tampa Bay has dence.” a solution. He returns to the store every three Custom Hair Tampa Bay has three weeks to have his head shaved and to locations in Brandon, Tampa and have the hairpiece cleaned, reconditioned Clearwater. Its Brandon store is located at and reattached. He purchases a new 117 N. Kings Ave. across from Chuck’s piece approximately four times a year. Natural Fields Market. Custom Hair Tampa Bay owner Lori For information, visit www.cusYounkman said she has seen an tomhairtampabay.com or call 651-9484.

Students for tickets. in kinderA Talent For garten Murder is an through 12th original play writgrade who ten by Welch are interestwhen she was in ed in the art high school. The of theatre play tells the should check story of the stuout dents of Riverton Broadway High School who Everyday are getting ready Star Theater Students who want to learn all about or improve for the annual (B.E.S.T.). talent show. their theatre skills should look into Broadway Everyday Star Theater (B.E.S.T.). At B.E.S.T. B.E.S.T is a Everyone is every student is a star. They will perform the community excited until original play A Talent For Murder this March. theatre for someone is murchildren. B.E.S.T. provides growth and dered. The audience becomes the knowledge through the art of theatre. detectives as they try to figure out who B.E.S.T. is committed to producing killed last year's winner. You can count shows that will entertain and educate. on interaction between the audience B.E.S.T. was founded by Katie and the cast. The person who solves Welch who said, "We are an all-incluthe mystery will win a prize. sive community theatre. We have Welch explained, "The reason I actors who have performed in other chose to produce this play is because plays as well as actors who are perall of the characters have significant forming in their first or second play." roles. Most plays have one or two main Welch added, "We are especially proud characters and the rest have very few of our actors and actresses with spelines or are in the ensemble. This play cial needs." In B.E.S.T. each actor has has main lines for everyone and most the opportunity to play a significant role will perform in the talent show." while having fun and improving their Welch added, "We want the comtheatre skills. munity to know that Broadway The actors of B.E.S.T. will present Everyday Star Theater is where everyA Talent For Murder on Friday and one is a star." Saturday, March 15 and 16 at Mary For more information and to Help of Christian Catholic Church become an actor with B.E.S.T., please located at 6400 E. Chelsea St. in visit www.bestshows.org, email broadTampa. Tickets are $10 per person and wayeverydaystartheater@gmail.com or $5 for students. You can call 416-9574 call 416-9574.

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Page 30

Valrico Edition

Volume 16, Issue 2

February 2019

Valrico Edition

Shoot For Those Who Shot For U.S. Event Supports Area Honor Flights

By Stacy Huisman

said picking this charity was their company’s way to give back to the greatest generation. “We chose these charities because it’s a beautiful way to say thank you to our veterans for their service. We have seen firsthand, by being guardians, how this day of appreciation can change a soldier and help them to feel the love that so many people want

Guardians, the Wilson family, in Washington D.C. for local Honor Flight with two WWII veterans.

Shoot For Those Who Shot For U.S is a local clay shooting fundraiser benefiting two area Honor Flight programs. The event will be held on Friday, February 22 at 10:30 a.m. at the FishHawk Sporting Clays Club located at 13505 Hobson Simmons Rd. in Lithia. Clay shooters at a previous Shoot For Those Who All funds raised will support Shot For U.S. two local Honor Flights–Honor them to feel.” Flight of West Central Florida, which is Wilson also says witnessing veteraffiliated with Honor Flight Network, and ans of different conflicts supporting each Flight to Honor of Polk Veterans other was a moving experience. Council. “I have a friend who went on the The mission of the Honor Flights flight as a guardian. He is a veteran of and Flight to Honor is to transport veterVietnam, and watching his pride and his ans of WWII, Korean and Vietnam Wars emotions change throughout the day to the national memorials in Washington was breathtaking. Here is a man who D.C., honoring their service and coverwas never welcomed home with ing all expenses associated with the applause, walking a WWII veteran off of flight. According to Honor Flight a plane, and seeing so many people Network’s website, more than 35,000 cheering, clapping and thrilled to see veterans are on the waiting list for its them get off the plane changes a perprogram. Since 2005, the network has son for the better. “ flown more than 21,000 veterans to the The Shoot For Those Who Shot For nation’s capital. U.S event is open to everyone and all Cardinal Roofing started the event skill levels. Children are welcome but in 2013, raising more than $60,000 must be well-supervised. For more inforsince the inaugural event. Bridget mation on the event or how to sign up, Wilson, part owner of Cardinal Roofing, contact Cardinal Roofing at 689-7663.

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Page 31

Local Homeschool Students Can Learn Martial Arts From An Olympian

By Libby Baldwin

Back in 1997, Miami Ferguson could have native Dr. Rhadi gone anywhere. Ferguson took a risk. So he opened his Dr. Ferguson, now own judo school in a 43, had just graduated modest 1,200 sq. ft. with a degree in mechanbuilding on ical engineering and Falkenburg Rd., taken a desk job, but a where he teaches lifelong passion for marnightly classes to tial arts instilled by his all types of learnparents just would not ers, including those burn out. on the autism So he quit his postspectrum. He now Dr. Rhadi Ferguson jokes with students during his January 15 college career before it offers weekly classes evening class really began and moved to local homeschool to the Olympic training center, ultimately students. competing in Athens in 2004 with Team “I coach. I teach. It’s what I do,” said USA Judo. He earned his master’s Dr. Ferguson, who has taught exercise degree and Ph.D. in education while science courses at UCF, UT and HCC. simultaneously training for the Olympics. Dr. Ferguson’s focus is on self“The Olympics was tumultuous and defense and good citizenship. His key to educational at the same time; it takes a effective teaching is getting to know how lot from you, but you learn so much about each child learns and is disciplined in his yourself through the process,” said Dr. or her home. Ferguson. “You learn how tough you are “The educational system thinks if and how tough you aren’t.” you’re not teaching K-12, you’re not Although the gold medal went to his teaching,” he said. “But I have every type teammate Jimmy Pedro, Dr. Ferguson of learner in here.” said he is proud to have finished as one Dr. Ferguson wanted to give homeof the 16 best judo athletes in the world in schooled students the chance to learn his weight class. social skills and conflict resolution in a “I won the opportunity to walk around healthy environment, one that “doesn’t and say ‘I’m an Olympian!’” he said with a belittle them; where they can be empowlaugh. “People always ask if I won the ered and see what happens when iron gold, and I reply by asking how many sharpens iron,” he said. Olympians they already know. There just Homeschool classes are available aren’t a lot of us walking around on the every Wednesday for $60 per month, and planet.” are open to ages 6-18. An award-winning judo coach with a To sign up for classes, call 501-2827 dizzying list of accomplishments, Dr. or visit www.tampafloridajudo.net.

Page 32

Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

Mr. Matthew Mazthur

ur Mr. Maz e

ad 10th Gr igh H t n a Dur School d By

Sponsore

Signature Wade

Teacher Of The Mon

a teacher? Why did you decide to become to Coach, but after I started ted wan I rts, spo h It started wit Job. I enjoy the relationships teaching I fell in Love with the them progress through their made with students and seeing high school years. cher? What is a goal of yours as a tea for each and every one of and w, gro ts den stu To see my pose and that they are pur them to know that they have loved!!!

? Do you have any hidden talents though d Poetry, probably not very goo r students What would be something you about you? out find to ed would be surpris d, I played That I wasn't always a Math ner sports in high school why? What is your favorite book and tivation mo t stan con d Bible, I would nee vive sur to e wer I and hope if rassing Mr. Maz What is one of your most embar ur has b a n bee een e moments while you hav 11 years a teacher for . teacher? per down zip my h wit ses clas ple cou a I once taught know. before someone finally let me the day with a missing tooth that fell out day I also had to teach a whole seeing but ts den stu the t hou st of the day wit before, I was able to make it mo fest after that. then one saw, and it was a laugh s? What are some of your hobbie take up most s and their sports and activities kid 4 e hav I ily. Fam and Sports of my hobbies. saying? What is your favorite quote or what is evil: lot "Love must be sincere. Hate a 9 se ver 12 ans I think of Rom and cling to what is good."

Hillsborough County Celebrates Record High Graduation Rates

By Kate Quesada

Hillsborough County high schools have a reason to celebrate this month. The school district recently announced that the graduation rate is currently at an all-time high with 85.8 percent of students graduating after their senior year. According to Hillsborough County Public School’s (HCPS) Media Outreach representative Tanya Arja, the 2018 rate is 2.9 percentage Hillsborough County Public Schools celebrated points higher than the year record high graduation rates in 2018. Superintendent before and 12.3 percentage Jeff Eakins announced the results last month at East Bay High School in Gibsonton. points higher than in 2014. “This increase in our gradsignificant impact a high school diploma uation rate should be celebrated across has on a student’s future earning potenour community,” said Arja, who tial. According to Arja, students with a explained that the 2018 increase diploma earn $380,000 more during amounts to 1,055 more students earntheir lifetime compared to those who do ing a high school diploma. “This highnot graduate. lights the determination of students and The district has also seen a signifithe dedication of teachers and staff who cant rise in the number of minority stuwork with them every day.” dents and students with disabilities Brandon-area schools played a role achieving diplomas. in the district’s success, with “We couldn’t have done this without Bloomingdale High School raising its our dedicated parents, staff and, of graduation rate six percentage points in course, our amazing students,” said five years to an impressive 96.1 percent Eakins. and Brandon High School increasing its For more information on the gradurate 11.3 percentage points over five ation rates, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us or years with 93.5 percent of students call 272-4000. graduating in 2018. Spoto High School in Riverview had the highest graduation rate increase in 2018, jump100 ing nearly eight percentage points from 80.4 to 88.3 percent, and Newsome High School in Lithia 90 has the highest graduation rate in the district at 98.6 percent. “We are thrilled to see this significant leap to an all time 80 high,” said HCPS Superintendent Jeff Eakins. “We are on target to meet our goal of a 90 percent 70 graduation rate by 2020.” Eakins, who became superintendent in 2014 when the rate was 76 percent, has made raising 60 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 the graduation rate a key priority during his tenure because of the

EXPIRES: 2/28/19

February 2019

Page 33

Valrico Edition

Local Middle School Civics Students Get A Clue About CLEWS

NOMINATIONS NEEDED!

By Kathi Hayes

riculum. It was great to see the 45 civics students engaging in conversations with deputies on topics like guns on campus, vaping and other concerns as a middle school student.” One RMS seventh grader Davis Abdoney added, “It was a great experience for kids to see Randall Middle School (RMS) was recently selected as one of seven schools for a workshop with Community and Law Enforcement Workshops & Services, Inc. (CLEWS). The CLEWS program is a workshop conducted on public school campuses to encourage dialogue between youth and law enforcement of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Randall civic students investigated the 10 The workshop began with dispatrol cars, read each other the Miranda cussing topics of interest to students rights and turned on the sirens at the and also included exploring patrol cars, CLEWS workshop. eating lunch with the officers and planning what it is like to be a cop. My favorite part follow-up discussions with parents. The of the program was getting to see the goal CLEWS strives for at each school is inside of their cars and how they operto bring students and law enforcement ate.” officers together to discuss issues both CLEWS was inspired by the Policegroups take a vested interest in, whether Community Relations Workshops, origiat school, home or in the community. nally funded by the State of Florida in Principal Claire Mawhinney expressed 1985. Currently, the program is operated her gratitude, “CLEWS was a great by individuals who were part of the proopportunity for our students to share their gram 20-30 years ago, including CLEWS ideas and to see officers as real people. It program manager, Fred Hearns, who is created a positive connection between retired from the City of Tampa. young people and law enforcement.” For more information about Randall Brittany Carrillo, civics teacher at Middle School in Lithia, visit http://ranRandall Middle School said, “This prodall.mysdhc.org/. For information about gram correlates well with the civics curCLEWS, visit https://clewsprogram.org/.

Your favorite teacher could have their very own spotlight editorial in the Osprey Observer Community Newspaper! Complete the form below and email your nomination to: teacher@ospreyobserver.com

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Page 34

Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Artist Angie Klein Holds Her First Exhibit At Local Library

Center Place Presents 3rd Annual National Contemporary Juried Competition And Exhibition

Angie ones we see on Klein is an our weekly trips to artist and a Ybor City. So often lifelong resioverlooked, dent of Plant passed by without City. Klein is so much as a displaying her glance, purposely art for the first avoided." Klein time at the added, "On occaBruton sion, I linger long Memorial enough to hold a Angie Klein's artwork is on display at the Library located chat with one of our Bruton Memorial Library now through the end at 302 of February. Her whimsical and fun pieces, homeless residents coupled with beautiful and thoughtful art, McLendon St. and find myself makes for an enjoyable exhibit. in historic feeling both blessed downtown Plant City. and sad, but often I am left wonderKlein's lovely work is shown in a ing...Are we missing the Angels group of three settings. The first Among Us?" group of paintings are from her Klein explained that she is ‘Goat Show’ series. The delightful inspired by folk artist, Ruby C. and whimsical paintings portray Williams. "The heart and feeling three goats in beauty contest entry behind each of her paintings inspires photos. me to ask 'Why am I creating the The second grouping is the piece? What am I hoping the viewer ‘Strawberry Series.’ There are seven will feel when they see it? What am I paintings in this grouping. They are trying to say?,”added Klein. bright and vibrant in color. The detail Klein's artwork will be on view at is intense, and viewing them, you the library through February. You immediately get into the mood for can also see and meet her at the sweet and delicious strawberries. Annual Florida Strawberry Festival The third grouping is called where she will be an exhibitor. ‘Angels Among Us.’ Klein explained For more information on Klein in her artist statement, "Each of and her art, please visit www.angiekthese Angels were inspired by lonely leinart.com.

Center Place Brandon for his oil piece of Brandon is entitled Birth of a Universe. exhibiting the artBergmann said of the work of the artists piece, “I was completely who competed in wowed and intrigued by the Third Annual this piece. The imaginative National translation of the concept Contemporary and masterful execution is Juried Competition stunning.” and ExhibitionFirst place went to Square’s Off. Marsha Nelson of Valrico Awards were pre- James McCarthy of Brandon who won for her photograph, sented at an Artists’ Best of Show for his oil painting Birth Hawk on a Blue Pole. of a Universe. Banquet held on Second place was Friday, February 1 at Center Place. The awarded to Elizabeth Johnson of competition drew artists from the local Brooksville for her colored pencil piece area as well as from out of state. The Spinach Pastry Plumeria. Third place show was judged by Catherine went to Deborah Biasetti of Riverview for Bergmann, the Curatorial Director at the her watercolor, Got Biscuits. Barry Dunedin Fine Art Center. Goodman from St. Petersburg, James Bergmann said, “It was my pleasure Mai of Norman, IL and Tiffany Sikora of and privilege to serve as juror for this Grand Rapids, MI all won Honorable exciting collection of works representing Mention. an impressive range of media.” McCarthy said, “I am a surrealist and Jennie Sikora-Muehl, Chair of landscape painter. I like to watch science Square’s Off and Art Instructor at Center shows.” McCarthy added, “This painting Place said, “The shows are different each is completely spontaneous. I usually paint year. The art is extraordinary and full of from a photo but not this one.” surprises this year.” Center Place is a nonprofit cultural The winners of the Third Annual arts center proudly serving the greater Square’s Off represented both diversity in Brandon area. the medium they selected and from For more information on Center where they come. The Best of Show Place, please visit www.centerplacebranAward was given to James McCarthy of don.org or call 685-8888.

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Page 35

Valrico Edition

The Straz Center Offers Theater Lovers A Taste Of Everything

Staff Report

Exciting things have been happening at The Straz Center during the 20182019 Season. The line-up of touring Broadway blockbusters, a powerhouse opera series, a dramatic and thought-provoking play series and a remarkable collection of dance, theater, music and educational events have added an exciting vibe for local theater lovers. “We are really proud to be able to bring so much high quality performing arts to the Tampa area on our stages and in our school and in the community,” said President and CEO Judy Lisi. “This is a special season for us, and we hope for our entire community.” Excitement has filled the air since it was announced Hamilton was going to play in Tampa at The Straz Center. It is currently making its run and will continue through Sunday, March 10. There is still a lot to see during the 2018-2019 season at the Straz Center. The 2017 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical Dear Evan Hansen comes to The STRAZ Center from Tuesday to Sunday, April 9-14. It is the winner of six 2017 Tony Awards® including Best Musical and the 2018 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theatre Album. A letter that was never meant to be seen, a lie that was never meant to be told; a life he never dreamed he could have. Evan Hansen is about to get the one thing he’s always wanted: a chance to finally fit in. Anastasia will take place from Tuesday to Sunday, May 7-12. This dazzling show will transport you from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover th

The Lightning Thief: Percy Jackson

Hamilton

Dear Evan Hansen

Anastasia

There is still a lot more to the Broadway season at The Straz Center.

mystery of her past. Kinky Boots, winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical in 2013, returns for a limited engagement from Friday to Sunday, May 17-19. It was inspired by true events, and takes you from a gentlemen’s shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan. Take a step in the right direction and discover that sometimes the best way to fit in is to stand out.

Come From Away takes to the stage from Tuesday to Sunday, June 4-9. On 9/11, the world stopped. This is the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships. The 10th Anniversary tour of Rock of Ages will be in town from Tuesday to

Sunday, June 11-16. Broadway’s best party is turning up the volume. Nominated for five Tony Awards®, Rock of Ages captures the iconic era of 1980s Hollywood. Bring the kids to see The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical from Tuesday to Sunday, July 9-14. It is based on the best-selling DisneyHyperion novel by Rick Riordan. The Greek gods are real, and they are ruining Percy Jackson’s life. As a son of Poseidon, Percy has newly discovered powers he can’t control, monsters on his trail, and is on an epic quest to find Zeus’s lightning bolt to prevent a war between the gods. It was nominated for three Drama Desk Awards including Best Musical. No season would be complete without Best of Tampa Bay. The area’s premier food event, a benefit for the Straz Center’s education and mission-based programming and organized by The Producers volunteer group, is scheduled for Saturday, April 6. Single tickets for most performances in the Straz Center’s 2018-2019 season will go on sale to the public on Friday, July 27, and are available online at www.strazcenter.org beginning at 10 a.m., and by phone and in person at the Straz Center Ticket Sales Office beginning at 12 p.m. The Straz is located at 1010 N Macinnes Pl. in Tampa. For tickets or more information on all upcoming events, visit www.strazcenter.org or visit the Box Office Monday to Saturday from 12Noon-8 p.m. or Sunday from 12 Noon-6 p.m. Call 229-7827.

Page 36

Volume 16, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

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