Two Sections, 40 Pages of Community News
Valrico
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Publishers Clearing House Delivers $1 Million Prize To Valrico Man By Michelle Colesanti
Valrico resident Mike Flaherty was surprised to find the Publishers Clearing House Prize Patrol at his door with a $1 Million sweepstakes prize.
cal, the Publishers Clearing House (PCH) Prize Patrol team is actually on the road across the country every week of the year presenting prizes and checks to residents who enter. According to the company, people are often surprised that PCH awards a multitude of big cash prizes annually. “I thought there was just one million or ten million dollar prize a year,” some folks tell the PCH Prize Patrol deputies. That’s not the case. While the number of prizes may vary by year, at Publishers Clearing House there are many ways to win and many prizes awarded. In total, Publishers Clearing House awards anywhere from nearly $3 million to just over $13 million in prizes annually. The winner selection process is completely random and unbiased. All of the company giveaways and the handling of SuperPrize numbers are governed by a set of official rules and are under the supervision of the PCH Board of Judges. PCH was founded in 1953, has awarded more than $430 Million in prizes and has evolved to include many ways to win online and through social media and mobile access. For more information or to enter, visit www.pch.com.
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For one Valrico man, being home on a Friday morning became the highlight of his life as he answered the door to the Publishers Clearing House Prize Patrol! The patrol was on hand to present Mike Flaherty of Valrico with a $1 million sweepstakes prize along with balloons, flowers and camera crews from local news stations as the famous Prize Patrol presented him with his winnings. Flaherty, said he enters the Sweepstakes frequently but had no clue he had won. In fact, his wife was out of town and he was heading out of state before the doorbell rang. "I just can't believe this," said Flaherty. "I'm leaving for North Carolina today and I just can't believe it." When told he was the Publishers Clearing House Winner of $1 Million, he was shocked. "You're coming at just the right time," he added, "you just have no idea." Flaherty was asked by the Prize Patrol if he enters a lot and he said, "I enter all the time!" Although a prize this size is not typi-
Pages 29-36
June 2019 Volume 16, Issue 6 Ph: 657-2418 P O S I T I V E
C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
Teacher Of The Year Finalist Returns To Inspire Fellow Lithia Springs Students
By Kate Quesada
Fifth grade students at Valrico’s Lithia Springs Elementary School received inspiration from a special former student last month. Dr. Dakeyan Graham, Hillsborough County’s Teacher of the Year for 2019 and one of five finalists for 2020’s Florida Teacher of the Year, spoke at the school’s fifth grade banquet 23 years after attending the school himself.
Graham, who was a student at Lithia Springs for third through fifth grades and attended Burns and Rodgers middle schools, teaches Band, Orchestra and Music Theory at King High School, his alma mater. He also received his Bachelor and Master degrees in Music Education from the University of Florida and his PhD from the University of South Florida. Lithia Springs Principal Kevin Martin invited Graham to speak at the school’s fifth grade banquet after hearing about his Teacher of the Year success. “Dr. Graham was amazing with our students,” said Martin. “His message was about having a dream and that you get one hundred percent of what you put into your dream back out. The students were tuned in throughout and I noticed multiple parents approaching him afterwards and thanking him.” Graham felt the banquet was a great opportunity for him to make an impact on the students as they move on to middle school with the new opportunities that come with that transition. “I wanted to help the students remember how important it is to have a
dream and keep that dream at the forefront as they experience new things,” said Graham, whose parents still live in the Bloomingdale home where he grew up. “Success comes when you don’t allow your circumstances to dictate your future.” The next Dr. Dakeyan Graham, Florida step for Graham Teacher of the on his Florida Year finalist, spoke to Lithia Teacher of the Springs Year journey is Elementary School 5th grade an interview in Tallahassee later graduation. this month. The winner will be announced in mid-July. “Teaching is my passion,” said Graham, who taught approximately 240 students during the 2018-19 school year. “It is amazing to me that I can give individualized attention to and help guide so many growing minds.” Lithia Springs Elementary School is located at 4332 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico and can be reached at 744-8016. Visit www.lithiasprings.mysdhc.org.
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GRAND OPENING!
June 11th
Maple Street Biscuit Company’s newest location in the Tampa area opened June 11. Opening its first location in Jacksonville, FL in 2012, Maple Street continues to serve comfort food with a modern twist. Located at 127 W. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. For more information, call 409-3583.
Create Your Own Love It Ice Cream Expires 7/14/19
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Page 2
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 6
June 2019
Page 3
Valrico Edition
Students Get Education Outside Of Their Classroom In Effort To Save Mascot
State Farm Grant Awarded To Junior Achievement
Maggie Ramos, a diversity officer for student at Brooker Hillsborough County Elementary school, is Schools explained they learning about topics that do not want to reduce the are not taught in school Native American images but are making a big and mascots to the level impact on her school’s of a cartoon or stereotypspirit. ing the culture. Ramos may only be After hearing the a rising fifth grader, but, announcement in school, she was brave in speakRamos along with her ing to the school board third grade brother, Jude this week. With a petition Ramos, came home in hand, she passionately and told her parents she Proud Brooker Brave students wanted to fight for her spoke in front of the visit the Osprey Observer. school board to keep her Fourth mascot. Ramos grader, Piper Nelson (L); school’s spirit alive by researched about petifourth grader, Maggie Ramos (R); rising kindergartener, Jonah tions and started getting keeping the Brooker Ramos (L); third grader, Jude signatures to support Brave mascot. “I don’t Ramos (R). want to hurt Native ‘Saving the Braves.’ She American’s feelings, but instead be proud spoke with School Board Chair Melissa to be a Brooker Brave and keep the hisSnively and addressed the school board tory and heritage alive in a positive way,” at this months meeting. Ramos said, “It is explained Ramos. important to keep the Brooker Brave In May, the Hillsborough County mascot because it has been around since Public School (HCPS) District and a par1961 and it is like a family tradition that ent advisory committee of the they are erasing; a part of history. It would Hillsborough Native American community cost a lot of money to erase big murals decided six schools would change its cur- and we need that money for technology rent Braves, Chiefs or Indians mascot. and more classrooms.” Brooker, Forest Hills, Thonotosassa, As a result, Hillsborough County Summerfield and Ruskin Elementary School Board voted unanimously to Schools along with Adams Middle School pause its efforts to change school mashave been told to adopt a new mascot. cots until next month’s meeting on Two high schools, Chamberlain and East Tuesday, June 11, giving them more time Bay, were allowed to keep their Chiefs to discuss concerns. and Indians mascot but had to change For information about supporting the game day rituals to help students learn Brooker Braves, visit https://savetheabout Native American heritage. braves.home.blog/. For information about Minerva Spanner-Morrow, chief HCPS, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us
career and financial decisions. They need to know about employment opportunities, and the skills they need to open some of the career doors that are available to them. They also need a basic understanding of how to successfully manage their personal finances.” A check presentation was held at JA BizTown on May 16. Locally, the $6,000 Florida State House Representative Fentrice Driskell was allocation of State Farm on-site for the check presentation. funds to Junior Junior Achievement (JA) of Tampa Achievement of Tampa Bay/Hillsborough Bay recently announced that it has County partially funds 847 low to moderreceived grants totaling $18,000 to fund ate income students to attend JA JA’s work readiness and financial literacy BizTown, or JA Finance Park, both proprogramming. The grants, from State grams help students identify and practice Farm Insurance, are part of a larger the skills they need to find and keep a job statewide initiative totaling $60,000 that and to manage personal finances. will support Junior Achievement programs Elsewhere in the Tampa Bay area, in 11 localities throughout Florida, JA of Tampa Bay/Sarasota received enabling over 5,000 young people to par- $5,000 in State Farm funds and JA of ticipate in JA’s nationally recognized ecoTampa Bay/Polk/Highlands received nomic education programs. $7,000 to support Junior Achievement “The mission of State Farm® is to financial literacy classes for over 400 low help people manage the risks of everyday and moderate income students. life, recover from the unexpected, and Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay realize their dreams” shares Jose Soto, inspired 81,307 students through the supState Farm public affairs specialist. “JA port of 6,904 volunteers in the 12-county programs help all students improve their region. Junior Achievement is a nonprofit financial literacy, however, a high percent- organization that delivers K-12 programage of low to moderate income students ming for entrepreneurship, financial literaare likely to derive greater benefit from cy and career readiness including two the programs.” capstone programs of JA BizTown and JA Richard George, President of Junior Finance Park. For more information, Achievement of Tampa Bay explains, visit jatampabay.org. “Many students lack the basic information For more information on State Farm, they need to make good education, visit www.statefarm.com.
By Kathi Hayes
Staff Report
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Page 4
Valrico Edition
Newcomers Present $2,000 To BSAC
By Kate Quesada
Children around the attend the auction and Brandon area will be attendees will also safer in the water receive a meal during thanks to the generous the event. members of a local The Newcomers group. The Brandon group, which was Area Newcomers preestablished in 1961, is sented a $2,000 check open to all residents, to The Brandon Sports not only people who and Aquatics Center recently moved to the (BSAC) last month to area. be used to fund water “We are always Brandon Area Newcomers safety scholarships for President Barbara Babiarz and Vice looking for new memPresident Jean Pastore presented a bers, especially people children in need. check for $2,000 to Theresa Hickie, According to Brandon Sports and Aquatics Club’s who can bring new Newcomers Vice ideas and passion to Senior Director of Sports Programming. President Jean Pastore, the group,” said the group chooses one or two local chari- Pastore. ties to support a year based on nominaMembers meet monthly September tions from members. through May as a large group, but the “We are so excited to be able to offer club also offers many small-group meetso much support to BSAC this year,” said ings including book clubs, bunko, bridge Pastore, who has been a member of the and dominoes groups, craft get-togethers, Newcomers for five years. “We always try chick flicks, lunch and dinner outings, to find a charity that keeps the money in nights out and overnight trips out of state. our community and young children and “We really offer something for everytoddlers drowning is such a terrible probone, anyone who wants to get out of the lem in Florida. We decided we wanted to house, do some fun things and meet help BSAC’s program as much as we some great people,” said Pastore, who can.” explains that the group currently has The group raised the majority of the almost 100 members from all over $2,000 through its Make It, Bake It, Sew Eastern Hillsborough County from Plant It, Grow It annual auction fundraiser. City to Riverview. “At the auction, all of our members Dues for the group are $20 annually contribute something, from a plant they and meetings take place on the third have grown to a blanket they made or a Wednesday of the month, September cake they baked,” said Pastore. “We find through May, at the Brandon Community it a great way for all our members to be Center, located at 502 E. Sadie St. For able to contribute and raise funds for out more information, contact Pastore at 203community.” 805-9530. Visit www.mybsac.org, located Members of the public are invited to at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon.
Volume 16, Issue 6
Local Violinist Stephanie Ann To Perform At Central Florida’s Indoor Custom Bike Show It will be a combination of some of the hottest looking custom motorcycle designs around, but in the coolest of surroundings. Never mind the Florida summer heat or rain, because this show will be a one-of-akind indoor cycle show that will deliver. Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 22 when the RP Funding Center in Lakeland will open its doors to the public from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. for the first annual Central Florida Wheels of Steel custom bike show presented by GEICO. “At GEICO, we believe education is the bedrock of success,” said Senior Vice President Pionne Corbin. “We are pleased to support the ELC of Polk in its mission to prepare our children for bright futures and presenting a custom bike show is a natural fit for us.” The event will showcase a variety of innovative designs brought in from top motorcycle builders who will be showing off their unique wheels and steel artistry. Cycle enthusiasts of all ages will have the chance to see over a hundred customized models in this family-friendly event. All the proceeds will benefit the Early Learning Coalition of Polk County that serves over 12,000 children annually. CEO Dr. Marc Hutek believes it is a cause worth supporting. “So many biker enthusiasts carry a great love for children and we look for-
Staff Report
ward to their support. Events as this support those in our community that need it the most and the very nature of this kind of support will change the lives of our youngest for the better,” said Hutek. Local violinist Stephanie Simon will also be adding some sizzle of her own to the event by playing The Star Spangled Banner during a tribute to the veterans. Acknowledging the veterans has always been a part of her performances, but the former Grand Ole Opry performer champions causes for children too. “The mind of a young child is a wide open field of curiosity and a constant desire to learn,” said Simon. “I believe through early education a child can gain confidence and self-esteem, which are important factors in becoming a successful contribution to society.” Tony Cianci of Full Throttle magazine will emcee the event, pairing up with special guest radio deejay Mike Lee from MAX 98.3 radio. The event will include a variety of vendors along with food and drink concessions. Cost to attend will be $20 per adult and $5 for ages 13-17. Children under 12 are free. Visit www.cfwheelsofsteel.com or search Central Florida Wheels of Steel Custom Motorcycle Show on Facebook for more info.
June 2019
Page 5
Valrico Edition
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Free Seminar: Growing Great Citrus
Kerby’s Nursery, 2311 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner Saturday, June 15; 10-11 a.m. Florida’s climate is perfect for growing oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes. But growing citrus trees can have its challenges. This Father's Day weekend, bring dad out and learn together how to plant, grow and care for all types of citrus. Call 685-3265. Visit kerbysnursery.com.
Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group Tuesday, June 25 and July 23 and Thursday, June 13 and July 11; 5:45 p.m. Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking you 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 a message after 4:30 p.m.
Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pets
Saturday, July 6; 3:30-4:30 p.m. Kim’s Natural Foods is located at 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.
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.
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.
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
Calling All Marines, FMF Corpsmen And FMF Chaplains
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
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 6
Black Biscuit Hockey Club Looks To Defend Its National Championship
Forgotten Angels Purchases Property To Serve Teens Aging Out Of Foster Care
In 2016, Black Through Biscuit FishHawk fundraising efforts, started with a couthey have brought ple of kids with a in position-based passion for hockey coaching and proand a few dads vided scholarships with a passion for and equipment their kids. Today, assistance as well. they are the “If I get one of my defending National players an educaChampions. They tion out of this, my now have a sizable Photos courtesy of Wes Reid overall goal will be recreational league This picture was featured on Black Biscuit’s achieved,” said website. that has tripled in Reid. “Too much size with players from age groups 8Uemphasis is put on winning these days. 16U during the fall and winter months Our vision is to create and foster a culand four travel teams (8U-14U) as well. ture of development instead of a win-atThey also boast nine corporate sponall-cost attitude. You start winning once sors and two team sponsors, including you focus on team culture and developtheir main sponsor, Black Biscuit, a ment.” hockey equipment and apparel compaAccording to Reid, the organization ny from Minnesota. is the only youth team sponsored by The travel program is a year-round Black Biscuit, the others are all profesprogram and the teams are based on sional teams. "They have been a phetryouts. The recreational league is for nomenal partner in this journey. They FishHawk residents only. They play in are what every sponsor should strive to tournaments throughout the year, and be, no question. None of this would be they practice at the Ellenton Ice and possible if not for the community outSports Complex. At the end of May, they reach and flowing support of our corpowill compete in regionals, and they hope rate sponsors. Community support is to qualify for nationals at the beginning vital to all youth sports programs. of July to defend their title. According to Obviously, the best investment we can Coach Wes Reid, the organization’s make as a society is in our children.” goal is to establish themselves as one For more information on the recreof the elite hockey programs in the ation league, visit FishHawk Roller nation. “We are already a household Hockey on Facebook and name at the national level, and the FishHawkHockey on instagram. You future is bright if we continue on our can also email upward trajectory. Our philosophy is, ‘if matt.scribner@gmail.com or coach.weswe can, why not?’” reid@gmail.com.
“It’s not a group rough areas, and home, it IS home,” these teens have explained Cindy no guidance. How Tilley, the president can we expect and founder of them not to get into Forgotten Angels. trouble? I lived this Established in life and I know all 2015, the nonprofit about the dangers organization assists that are out there.” teens who have Quinton Aaron, aged out of the fosthe actor who porter care system. trayed Big Mike in Tilley, who entered the movie The the foster care sysBlind Side, recently tem in the fourth teamed up with grade, personally Forgotten Angels understands the Pictured is Cindy Tilley and David Tyler from and serves as the hardship and Ambassador of the nonprofit Forgotten Angels. The organization recently purchased land in heartache of not Goodwill for the Valrico to house and care for teens who having a home. organization. have aged out of the foster care system. Recently, Aaron’s friend, Forgotten Angels purchased 12 and a David Tyler, who is the executive director half acres off Little Stearns Rd. and is for The Quinton Aaron Foundation, has renovating the property to house and also taken on the executive director role support these teens. From basic needs for Forgotten Angels. such as food and shelter to fulfilling high With the help of the Quinton Aaron school education requirements and Foundation, local businesses, churches beyond, the organization comes alongand other nonprofits, Forgotten Angels side extended foster care teens from has been fixing up the dwellings on the ages 18-21. Typically, these teens have property and has plans to build tiny spent most of their lives hopping from homes. house to house with no family to call their Currently, six extended foster care own. teens reside on the property, and Tilley “Our goal is to get these teens out of and Tyler are ensuring that these young survival mode and have them actually adults are loved and cared for. thrive,” said Tilley. “These teens are not To find out how you can help, email getting the education or the life skills they forgottenangelsfl@outlook.com or call need to get out there and succeed.” 728-0461. For more information or to She continued, “Many of the extendview a video of the property, visit http://fored foster care group homes are located in gottenangelsflorida.org.
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Page 7
Valrico Edition
McGinnis Law Firm Knows Knowledgeable Attorney Key In Military Divorce
By Michelle Caceres
Navigating the deployment and fredissolution of a marquent moves, so riage can be like sailMcGinnis includes laning in a dinghy guage in the settlement through stormy seas agreement to address for anyone, but for milthese issues sooner itary couples it can be rather than later. far more treacherous. Whether a military Complications couple or not, McGinnis that are presented by Law Firm, located at aspects of military 410 S. Ware Cir. Ste. service include preser402, is committed to vation of benefits, child providing high-quality Wendy McGinnis, Esq. is well-versed and spousal support in family law matters with regards to representation in family and child custody law cases. She is a military couples. issues and how they are impacted by Supreme Court certified mediator, who deployment. Abbreviations tossed around has dedicated her career to helping her in military divorces include SCRA, USFS- clients receive the best possible outcome PA and the 20/20/20 Rule, and if an attor- for their cases. Although she is an experiney is not well-versed in these issues, enced litigator and is very comfortable in mistakes can be costly. front of a judge, she said there are many “The rules and language relating to benefits to mediation, where a neutral how benefits are calculated in a military third party tries to bring about an agreedivorce are constantly being changed, so ment on contested issues. it’s important for attorneys to stay abreast “Mediation is certainly not for everyof these updates,” said Attorney Wendy one but with it you retain a level of control McGinnis of McGinnis Law Firm. “It’s that you don’t have at trial. It is cost-effeceasy for attorneys to miss out on benefits tive and when parties can amicably comtheir clients are entitled to.” municate to find mutually agreeable McGinnis works with a military expert terms, everyone wins, especially when in these cases, who makes certain the children are involved,” she said. “In medicalculations and the language are accuation, you aren’t force to accept a judge’s rate. order.” Custody is also an important factor to Clients benefit from her services consider when writing the settlement because from start to finish, she is peragreement. Florida law prevents a resisonally involved in every case. dential parent from relocating their resiFor information about McGinnis Law dence more than 50 miles unless the par- Firm, P.A. or to schedule a free initial conties enter into a written agreement before sultation, visit www.BrandonDivorce.com the move. Many military families face or call 235-4650.
Rosecastle At Delaney Creek In Brandon Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary The Rosecastle at Delaney Creek in Brandon cordially invites the local community to commemorate it being in operation for 20 years. This event will occur on Thursday, July 18 from 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. with a 90’s theme décor. Food, entertainment, tours and more will be provided for those who attend. In 1999, Rosecastle at Delaney Creek opened. The 52,000 sq. ft. building features an option of a six floor plan such as a studio, two-bedroom, one-bedroom and more. It also offers a 24-hour on-site staff, which includes LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) and caregivers. To add, residents get specialized care for those with memory loss or Alzheimer’s disease. Residents also receive assistance with daily activities that include dressing, grooming and much more. Rosecastle at Delaney Creek executive director, Christopher Kmet expounded on the kind of premiere services it offers to their residents. “With our extended care license residents can age in place,” Kmet said. In addition, some primary services that one
By Tatiana Ortiz
could receive would be home health, physical therapy, occupational therapy and more.” Kmet also mentioned about the various completed renovations there. For example, Rosecastle at Delaney Creek got a new roof and the interior was painted just to name a few. With Kmet’s role as the executive director he strives to make sure that Rosecastle at Delaney Creek continues to maintain its reputation that it has had since 1999. He also aims to bring awareness about what the facility does, especially for those who never visited Rosecastle at Delaney Creek. In regards to the 20th year anniversary celebration, Kmet shared his excitement about it. “We hope to bring in the community and show them what we did,” Kmet said. “To add, in this industry it’s not an accomplishment that many companies can fulfill.” Overall, as the population ages, Rosecastle at Delaney Creek will continue to provide quality care for its residents. For more information, visit http://rosecastleal.com/delaney.html. Delaney Creek is located at 320 S. Lakewood Dr.
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Valrico Edition
ity n u m m Co Honored rs e b m e M By DMicAhellRe Colesanti,
awarded the Distinguished Citizen Medal which recognizes a first responder or military member who achieves the qualities of honor, service, courage, by m d o e c r. il e p leadership, and patriotism. erv Com preyobs s o @ e In addition to numerous ll miche commendations, including a Medal of Valor, MADD Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, and two life-saving awards, Cpl LaVigne volunteered as a Outstanding Community Members youth soccer coach and currently volunHonored By Local DAR teers at Gracie Fishhawk teaching selfOn May 2, the Alafia River Chapter of defense. He’s a self-taught, certified the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) presented awards to three outstanding community members. B. Lee Elam received the Community Service Award for his volunteer work in the community. As an attorney in Brandon, he supported local service groups and donated his Pictured from left to right: Melody Powers, National Defense time and legal advice to Chairman for Alafia River Chapter NSDAR, Deputy Caitlin LaVigne, Corporal Brian LaVigne, Roberta Jordan, Regent, the community and Alafia River Chapter NSDAR migrant groups. Elam Spanish translator. He was nominated by was nominated by the Community the Alafia River Chapter NSDAR Regent, Service Award Chairman, Glenda Roberta Jordan (Lt Col, US Army, Thurow, who presented his award. His Retired), and his citation was read by wife Pat pinned his medal on him. National Defense Chairman, Melody John Noreiga was unable to attend Powers, and Cpl LaVigne’s daughter, but was also recognized with a Community Service Award for the support Deputy Caitlin LaVigne, placed the medal. he and his family have given to Brandon For more information about the Alafia through their business, Bill's Pharmacy. River Chapter NSDAR, email Corporal Brian LaVigne of the ARCRegistrar201921@gmail.com. Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office was
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Volume 16, Issue 6
Community Pet Project Provides Goods And Supplies To Homeless Pet Owners
By Nick Nahas
Community Pet these pets are the only Project (CPP) began in family that these people June 2017 as a division have. They become the of a local rescue organionly reason these people zation. Their mission is to get up in the morning.” provide for the pets of the CPP has been invited homeless and at-risk resito attend the Homeless dents of Hillsborough Outreach Events that are County. They distribute sponsored and coordinatfood, treats, collars, ed by the Hillsborough leashes, flea preventaCounty Sheriff’s tive, wormer, grooming Department, the Tampa supplies, toys and inforPolice Department, Temple mation regarding veteriTerrace Police and law nary care and low-cost enforcement from the airspay and neuter surgerPhotos courtesy of CPP port. This is where CPP ies as well as transporta- CPP has helped over 450 pets distributes supplies and since 2017. CPP provides for tion to and from the surthe pets of the homeless and food to the pet owners. In gery, if needed. between quarterly events, at-risk residents of Hillsborough County. In June 2018, they keep in contact with Community Pet Project Inc. became a clients to see if they need anything else, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, standing on its own. and clients can also reach out to CPP at Their vision is to keep the pets happy and any time if they are in need. They currenthealthy and out of the already overpopuly have 18 active volunteers. lated county shelter. According to Collister, CPP is always CPP has helped over 450 pets with looking for support from community memeverything from food and flea meds, to bers and businesses as well as more volreferrals for medical care. They rely 100 unteers. “If you are able to help, even percent on donations from the community with a small donation of cash, gift card, and local businesses that believe in their product or service, it would be greatly mission.They also hold fundraisers appreciated,” said Collister. “If you are throughout the year. interested, let us know. You can help us “Many people believe that if you can’t make a difference in a pet’s life and in afford your pet, you shouldn’t have one,” your community.” said CPP volunteer Mary Collister. “What For more information, and for a list of we fail to remember is that we don’t know event dates, you can visit www.communithe reason behind them becoming home- typetproject.org. You can also follow CPP less and we should give them credit for on Facebook at www.facebook.com/comnot turning their backs on their pets. We munitypetproject and on Instagram also fail to remember that many times CommunityPetProject).
June 2019
Page 9
Valrico Edition
Two Candidates Help Local Charities During Annual Honorary Mayor Race
By Kate Quesada
Brandon area residents have many opportunities to help those less fortunate in the area over the next few weeks. The annual Brandon Honorary Mayor’s Race, hosted by The Community Roundtable, will take place from June 1 until 8 a.m. on July 4, offering a Donelle White (L) and Angie Kagey (R) are running for the wide variety of fundraiscoveted titled of Honorary Mayor of Brandon this year. ing events with 100 pernight is also cent of profits going to scheduled for local charities chosen by June 11, a the candidates. Clay Shoot for According to The June 15, a Community Round bunco for June Table President Janine 18, Spirit Night Nickerson, this is the at Chipotle on 60th year the Honorary June 25, Tea Mayor’s Race has taken and Fashion place in Brandon with all Show on June money raised going 29 and Family directly to local charities. The first Honorary Mayor’s Race took place Fun Night at “Although we call it 60 years ago. Brandon High School teacher The Alley on Nat Storms took home the title after raising a mayor’s race, there Sunday, June $500 with the campaign slogan “A Pig for really is no loser,” said 30. Every Pot.” Nickerson. “Our commuFor info about Kagey’s events, nity and the charities are all winners.” search for Angie4Mayor on Facebook or Money can be raised by candidates email her at akagey@whatisimpact.com. through fundraising throughout the month The second candidate, Brandon resiof June and the first three days of July. dent Donelle White, is well known in the The candidate who raises the most Brandon community for her involvement money during that time is named with local charities. Honorary Mayor right before Brandon’s Her sponsoring organization for the annual Fourth of July Parade. They then race is The Kiwanis Club of Greater ride in the parade. The first winner, 60 Brandon, a group with which she has years ago, was Brandon High School been involved for two years. Her camteacher Nat Storms, who raised a total of paign is also benefiting The Forgotten $500. The most money raised by a single Angel Foundation, a group that helps chilcandidate was Chuck Burgess, who dren as they age out of the foster system, earned the title in 2016 by raising and the Brandon Junior Women’s Club $100,500. which gives a holiday party to 100 needy This year, two residents have children every year. stepped up to vie for the title and raise “Through my campaign I intend to money for their favorite charities. further the missions of my three charities Angie Kagey, executivedDirector of by improving our greater Brandon comImpact Program, Inc., is running to raise munity and working hand in hand with funds for Impact and Soles Shaping them to make a difference in children’s Souls. “I decided to join the race as a way lives,” said White, an attorney with The to bring community awareness and finan- Brandon Legal Group. cial resources to the selected charities as White has a number of exciting well as support our community by events lined up to raise money for her increasing my involvement,” said Kagey. charities. Starting with a Campaign KickImpact Program, Inc.’s mission is to Off event on June 1 at Gran Agave promote healthy living and relationships Mexican restaurant in Riverview, followed to teens through various targeted proby a Trivia with the Candidate night at grams. O’Brien’s Irish Pub on June 3, a Coach Soles Shaping Souls was founded Bag Bingo event at The Bridges Assisted last year by Camden Grant, a student at Living in Riverview on June 11, a Flag Newsome High School. Grant started the Day Golf Outing at Summerfield Crossing charity as a donation drive with the hopes Golf Club on June 14 and Hambingo at of gaining enough funds to provide the Touch Martini Bar on June 17, there is students at Booker T. Washington something for everyone. Elementary with a new pair of shoes To follow her events, search for each. Donelle White for Honorary Mayor of Kagey has arranged eight events to Brandon on Facebook or email take place during the mayor’s race to donelle.white@brandonlegalgroup.com. raise funds for her charities. After a kickoff For information on The Community event on Sunday June 2, the campaign Roundtable, visit will host a Coach Bingo at The Barn at www.TheCommunityRoundtable.org or Winthrop on Thursday, June 6. A movie call 661-4350.
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Page 10
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 6
Fourth Of July Parade Celebrates 60 Years Of The Honorary Mayor Of Brandon
Brandon Adult-Living Residents And Young Children Benefit From ‘Hope’s Therapy’
a tradition for many Brandon area residents and their families. Janine Nickerson, president of the community Roundtable said, “This is the 63rd presentation of the Independence Day Parade by The Community Roundtable. Many residents attend because it is a family tradition and the day would not be complete without seeing this colorful event.” Nickerson added, “Over the years, the Roundtable has received notes from spectators stating that their grandparents brought them to see the Come out with family and friends and continue parade, and now they are bringing their or start the tradition of attending The Community Roundtable's Annual Brandon grandchildren. Once the parade ends, Fourth of July Parade. The parade has been people go home to enjoy BBQ and a held for over 60 years on the 4th of July beginrefreshing swim.” ning at 10 a.m. in the heart of Brandon. Expected participants in this year’s parade include the Bloomingdale/Brandon Summer Band, the Rough Riders, Wolfe’s Produce tractor, Sheriff’s Office Equestrian Posse, the Tampa Model A Club and the Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon. Brandon’s Fourth of July Parade celebrates the residents, schools, organizations and nonprofits of the Greater Brandon area. The parade features floats, marching bands, dancers and more. Each year, the winner of the Annual Honorary Mayors’ Race is announced along with the winner of The Community Roundtable’s Father of the Year award. You can also see the winner of the Alice B. Tompkins Award (an award given to someone who epitomizes service to the community) and the winner of the Maureen Krzanowski Scholarship. “At the request of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, The Annual Brandon Fourth of July alcohol and squirt guns are banned,” said Parade presented by The Community Nickerson. Roundtable will be held on Thursday, July The Parade Committee is looking for 4. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at the sponsors and volunteers. Students in Law Offices of Reed & Reed at the corneed of community service hours can ner of Lumsden Rd. and Parsons Ave. have fun and help the community by volThe route will continue north on Parsons, unteering for set up and clean up. stop at the reviewing stand located in Students are encouraged to contact The front of Nature's Health Foods at Parsons Community Roundtable by Saturday, and Oakfield Dr., continue west on June 15. Robertson St. and end in the Publix parkFor more information on the 2019 ing lot at Buckingham Pl. Fourth of July Parade, please contact The This year’s theme is Celebrating the Community Roundtable at 661-4350 or Honorary Mayor of Brandon 60th email at roundtable2008@aol.com or visit Anniversary. www.thecommunityroundtable.org. The Annual Fourth of July Parade is
Brandon resithey pet her.”, said dents and high Paulette. school sweetLinda Kelly, hearts, Paulette activities assistant at and Robert Speirs, Hawthorne Village now married for Retirement more than 47 Community, added years, recently that pet therapy has decided to give so many physical back to the comand mental benefits munity through for Hawthorne’s resi‘Hope’s Therapy.’ dents. “Since Hope Hope, who is a has been coming to pointer/hound mix our facility, we have rescue dog that seen tremendous was saved by the improvements in Speirs approximany of our resimately five years dents. Everyone ago, has since waits with anticipaHope is a Therapy Dog that works with reschanged the lives idents at Hawthorne Village and students at tion for Tuesdays. of many residents Cimino and B.T. Washington Elementary Hope is kind, gentle School. of the Hawthorne and attentive. She Village Retirement Community and puts a smile on everyone’s faces,” said countless elementary school children. Kelly. Hope is a certified Therapy Dog that Students at B.T. Washington is registered with ‘Paws for Friendship’ Elementary and students from Ciminio and ‘Paws for Reading’. Elementary get to spend some time Paulette Speirs said, “I believe reading aloud with Hope and the ‘Hope’s Therapy’ is a calling we received Speirs. Small groups of children attend to help people in need.” these sessions to aid in developing their Hope has four therapy sessions reading skills. weekly, every Tuesday, at Hawthorne’s “The goal of these sessions with the Assisted Living Facilities and children is simple, it is to build reading Hawthorne’s Nursing Home. There, confidence and fluency,” according to the Hope spends quality time with the resiSpeirs. Hope sits with the children and dents, and she is fed doggie treats. attentively listens as the children take “From the time Hope walks in, she turns reading aloud to their furry friend. greets everyone with barks and the resiFor more information about ‘Hope’s dent’s faces just light up. She will lie on Therapy,’ please call Paulette Speirs their laps or gently sit by their side while at 685-1049.
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Page 11
Valrico Edition
Hillsborough County Commissioner Kicks Off Countdown To 2020 Census
By Jordyn Kalman
“Hillsborough “So we can teach as many County is one of people as possible when, the fastest growhow, and why they need to ing counties in complete their census the entire counforms.” try, however, only Another focus of the 75 percent of our Complete Count Committee residents fill out is informing people the centhe census on sus survey is shifting to a average,” mostly online format for the Hillsborough first time ever next year, County Miller said. Residents can Commission now submit their forms Chairman Lesley online, on a tablet, over the “Les” Miller Jr. phone, or through the mail. Hillsborough County Commission said, “That leaves “We need to get every Chairman and Complete Count a lot of people person counted at Committee Chairman Lesley “Les” Miller Jr. unaccounted for.” Hillsborough County and the With the 2020 census less than a state of Florida using any mechanism we year away, Miller has led county-wide can possibly get,” Miller said. efforts to raise awareness about the The 2020 census will determine what importance of this once-in-a-decade popshare of $675 billion dollars in federal ulation count by leading the Complete funds the county will receive to spend on Count Committee, which held a kick-off schools, hospitals, roads and highways, meeting at the Seminole Heights Garden infrastructure, public safety, emergency Center on Monday, May 20. preparedness and social service proThe event was funded by the U.S. grams over the next ten years, Miller said. Census Bureau and was free to the pubThe results are also important on a lic. During the meeting, attendees created national level, Miller said. It decides the volunteer-run subcommittees aimed at number of elected officials Florida will educating key areas of the community, have in the US House of Representatives Miller said. and how voting districts will be redrawn. The committees include: Business “This census will determine our and Industry, Faith and Cultural-based future,” Miller said, “When the time comes organizations, Media and Promotions, to fill the survey out, please do it. We Neighborhoods and Community-based want it to get it to get as close to 100 perorganizations, and Public Service and cent as we possibly can this time.” Education. To get involved with a subcommittee, “That’s the important part of getting visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/resithis campaign started early,” Miller said, dents/citizens/2020-united-states-census.
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Page 12
Valrico Edition
Valrico Resident Selected For Jersey College Mission Trip To Puerto Rico
By Vanessa Evans
Jersey Director and College, a nationNurses from ally accredited priHospital General vate institution of Castañer. higher learning, “Having selected Brittany been interested Jacobs from its in and involved Largo campus in the healthcare and Valrico resicommunity for dent Brandon much of my Joseph from its adult life, I am Tampa campus, honored that I both current stuwas chosen to Valrico resident Brandon Joseph, a student at work alongside dents of the Jersey College, recently served on a nursing Professional the brave nursmission trip in Castañer, Puerto Rico. Nursing program, es, doctors and as well as Barbara Milot, an alumnus of staff at Hospital General Castañer,” the program at the Largo campus, to said Brandon Joseph, student at Jersey serve on the college’s nursing mission College Tampa. trip. “In the two years as a student at A group of 10 students and alumni Jersey College, I’ve grown in areas of representing each of Jersey College’s professionalism, respect, integrity, six campuses throughout New Jersey diversity and excellence,” said Brittany and Florida traveled to Castañer, Jacobs, student at Jersey College Puerto Rico on a nursing mission trip Largo. “To be afforded this opportunity from May 5-11. In Puerto Rico, each to work alongside well-respected docstudent and alumni mentor will spent at tors, nurses and staff at Hospital least seven to eight hours per day at General Castañer, will give me the Hospital General Castañer assisting opportunity to demonstrate pride and doctors and nurses in areas such as allow me to grow even more as a proEmergency Room triage, Pediatrics, fessional nurse.” and Infection Control. The small village To be selected for the trip, nursing of Castañer was severely impacted by students from Jersey College submitted Hurricane Maria in 2017 leaving thouessays explaining how they have sands of people dead across Puerto demonstrated Jersey College’s values Rico, and wiped away homes and of ‘PRIDE’ (Professionalism, Respect, farms, and destroyed the electrical grid. Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence). During the trip, students had an opporFor more information about Jersey tunity to assist the community through College and its nursing mission trip, home care visits with the Medical visit www.jerseycollege.edu.
Volume 16, Issue 6
June 2019
Page 13
Valrico Edition
Creekside Church To Construct Multimillion Dollar Campus By Foundation Christian Academy On the morning of Sunday, April 28, Creekside Church of Christ broke ground on its property located on Lithia
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plex, a family life center and a worship center. This is truly going to be 'A Place for Everybody.' We want to make sure the campus benefits and touches Photo courtesy of Stephen Zane every person Pinecrest Rd. A Pictured are the church elders (left to right), Rob ceremony was Hight, Todd Mikula, Dwight Eppler, Todd Beggs and in this comheld commemomunity." Robert Clouse. Elder Lew Henson (not present). rating the next step as the plan for the Since its establishment in 1973, the multimillion dollar campus becomes palchurch has flourished—thus prompting pable. the need for its first expansion in 1990. Formerly known as Bell Shoals Nearly two decades later, the Creekside Church of Christ, the church changed its Church of Christ moves forward with its name in preparation of its move from Bell first phase in the construction featuring Shoals Ave. to Lithia Pinecrest Rd. The multi-purpose facilities designed to host new church campus will be located adjayouth programs, community events, charcent to Foundation Christian Academy, ity benefits, benevolence outreaches and which was founded by Creekside Church more. The church intends to share these in 1992. additional facilities with the community. The groundbreaking ceremony was Deb Dutton, a church member who well attended by the church’s past, presattended the ceremony, said, "After ent and future leaders. The day began attending at Bell Shoals Church of Christ with a worship service in Foundation for the past 22 years and having had a Christian Academy’s gymnasium and dream to move to Lithia Pinecrest for ended with an outdoor ceremony that about 20 of those, today was filled with included prayer, song and stories from excitement, anticipation and joy.” church leaders. Currently, Creekside Church of Christ "We've been planning this for years, meets at 2908 Bell Shoals Rd. The and God has opened many doors that church hopes to be worshiping at its new now allow us to break ground,” said Rex location this time next year. Dutton, the Pulpit Minister. “The campus More information about the church style complex will include an office and can be found at www.bellshoalscoc.org or benevolence building, an education comby calling 685-0750.
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Volume 16, Issue 6
Valrico Edition
Weathering Hurricane Season Takes Good Planning And Preparation Hurricanes are among nature's most powerful and destructive storms. On average, 12 tropical storms, six of which become hurricanes, form over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea or the Gulf of Mexico during the hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30 each year. Significant impacts are not only caused by major hurricanes so do not let the strength of it be the only factor when planning for the storm. Since 2010, Category 1 hurricanes have caused 175 direct deaths and over $100 billion in damage in the U.S. The County Emergency Management stresses not to focus on the exact forecasted track and listen to local officials. For more information, go to weather.gov and click on the Tampa Bay area. Hurricane names for Atlantic storms this year include Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Imelda, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.
Before The Storm
Daniel Noah is the Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the National Weather Service – Tampa Bay Area. He said, "Prepare for hurricane season now. Those who are prepared
and other potential airborne missiles. Leave the swimming pool filled and super-chlori-
By Michelle Colesanti
pumps will not operate without electricity. Secure your boat early. Drawbridges will be closed to boat traffic after an evacuation order is issued. Get cash. Banks and ATMs will not operate during power outages. Few stores will be able to accept credit cards or personal checks. Hurricane season is now upon us and it is important for you to make your plans today.
Have A Family Plan
are less stressed when a hurricane approaches than those that wait until the last minute." It is recommended that you clean and fill bathtubs and sinks before a storm so you will have extra clean water. Turn refrigerator and freezer dials to the coldest settings and avoid opening the doors to help keep perishable food during a power outage. Refill prescriptions and maintain at least a two-week supply of medications during hurricane season. Store the lawn furniture, potted plants, bicycles, trash cans
nated. Cover the filtration system. Protect your windows and glass doors with plywood or storm shutters. Brace double entry and garage doors at the top and bottom. Never sweep or blow yard leaves, pine needles, grass clippings or soil into the street or stormwater system. This clogs up the stormwater pipes and prevents water from draining. If there is a chance flooding could threaten your home, move important items such as electronics, antiques and furniture off the floor. Fill your car’s gas tank and check its oil, fluids, and tires. Gas
Hillsborough County Emergency managers urge residents to prepare for the worst by having a plan before a hurricane or tropical storm strikes. Here are four steps to help with your planning: Step 1: Put together a plan by discussing these four questions with your family, friends or household to start your emergency plan: shelter plan, evacuation route, a family/household communication plan and also how you will receive emergency alerts and warnings. Step 2: Consider specific needs in your household. As you prepare your plan, tailor your plans and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets or specific needs like the operation of durable medical equipment. Create your own personal network for specific areas where you need
June 2019
Page 15
Valrico Edition
Weathering Hurricane Season Takes Good Planning And Preparation
By Michelle Colesanti
assistance. Keep in mind the different ages of members within your household, responsibilities for assisting others, locations frequented, dietary needs, medical needs including prescriptions and equipment, disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment, languages spoken, cultural and religious considerations, pets or service animals and households with school-aged children. All five storm surge fatalities in Hurricane Michael last year were over the age of 60 years. Have a plan to assist the elderly and others most vulnerable. Step 3: Fill out a Family Emergency Plan. You can download and fill out a plan from www.fema.gov/medialibrary/assets/documents/133447 or use them as a guide to create your own. Step 4: Practice your plan with your family/household. Visit www.ready.gov/make-a-plan for more information.
Your Neighbors May Need Help
People with disabilities, in poor health (either mentally or physically) or those who are without the support of family or friends should plan ahead for
turned off if the building has been flooded.
Flooding And Road Safety After The Storm
an emergency. They may need special assistance from family members, friends, neighbors, or social service agencies. Please ask for help if you need it and volunteer to help those who do. Older adults who are also caregivers may require outside assistance. Excessive stress and anxiety can contribute to increased episodes of illness, particularly for persons with heart disease and other illnesses. If an older adult lives in a nursing home, assisted living facility (ALF) or residential facility, the administrator should be contacted to learn about the disaster plan for that facility.
After The Storm
Dangers exist even as the storm passes and skies clear -- downed
power lines, carbon monoxide from generators, and health complications from the cleanup. Storms with extensive rain and high winds, such as tropical storms and hurricanes, can cause severe damage and create hazardous conditions such as fallen trees and other types of dangerous debris including downed power lines, broken glass, small pieces of buildings, commercial signs, and road signs. After the storm passes, residents should be extremely careful as they sort through the wreckage to assess the damage. Always be careful when entering a damaged building. If there is serious structural damage, contact local officials before entering. Report downed power lines or gas leaks. Keep electricity
Avoid standing water as it may contain fecal matter, bacteria and viruses. Do not drive through moving or standing water. Water as shallow as two ft. deep can disable most vehicles. Nonfunctioning traffic signals should be treated as four-way stops. Avoid downed power lines; always assume they are live. Watch for workers repairing surfaces and follow all directional instructions and detour signs. Over half of the water-related fatalities during the 2016-18 hurricane seasons were vehicle-related. You can sign up at HCFL Alert, www.HCFLgov.net, Hillsborough County’s official mass notification system which is designed to keep you informed about emergencies and certain non-emergency events. By registering, you will receive time-sensitive, important messages from the County. Visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/residents/public-safety/emergency-management/find-evacuation-information to determine if you are in an evacuation zone. For post-disaster assistance, call Emergency Management at 272-6900.
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Page 16
Volume 16, Issue 6
Valrico Edition
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Resident Turns 102 Years Young
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Nancy Wolf at age 27 with her two sons.
What is the secret to turning 102 years young? If you ask Nancy Wolf, who celebrated her birthday on May 9, she will tell you it was all the years she lived on a ranch in Boynton Beach, Florida. “We raised cattle, chickens, and turkeys and grew our own vegetables,” Nancy answered. Nancy was born in 1917 when a postage stamp was 2 cents, the Chicago White Sox won the World Series and the U.S. entered WWI. She was born in Columbia, South Carolina and was the youngest of six children. After her mother died when she was a baby, Nancy’s father moved her and her two older siblings with him to Miami. Nancy married when she was 16 years old and by age 21, she had given birth to two sons. When the U.S. entered WWII in 1939, Nancy began working for the Defense Department on their military airplanes in Miami. At the young age of 27, Nancy became a widow. Two years later she married Charles Wolf and moved to a
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ranch in Boynton Beach. She and her husband had another son and raised the three boys on the ranch. Nancy and Charles loved to dance. “We were very active dancers and enjoyed modern square dancing and line dancing,” Nancy shared. “I was also a roller-skater, back in the day.” Nancy shared a memorable experience when she met Babe Ruth while both were in the waiting room at a doctor’s office in N. Miami Beach. For the past several years Nancy has resided at The Bridges Assisted Living Community in Riverview to be near her son David. She keeps a busy schedule at The Bridges attending musical performances, Coffee Club and shopping trips. She enjoys her nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. The Bridges Assisted Living Community is located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. For more information, please visit https://bridgesretirement.com/.
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Page 17
Valrico Edition
A Safe Boating Season Begins With Safety Classes Offered By USCG Flotilla 74 By George Papabeis
By Kate Quesada
Buckhorn HOA Recognizes Memorial Day For 16 years, the According to homeowners associaDorsey, some of the tion (HOA) in Valrico’s most popular HOA Buckhorn subdivision funded events include has displayed patriotism Halloween and Easter by decorating the comget-togethers which munity with flags before attract around 60 famiMemorial Day weekend. lies and the annual This year, the group Santa Claus Parade placed 782 flags, one at which includes Santa each of the homes in and Mrs Claus taking a Members of the Buckhorn HOA place 782 flags throughout the the subdivision and 130 police escort through community last month in recognition at the community’s the community and of Memorial Day. entrance, to remember and recognize then meeting with residents at the park to those lost fighting for the country. take photographs and give out toys to the According to HOA President, Kevin children in attendance. Dorsey, the flags are placed by the volunThe community also has an awardteer board of directors starting a few days winning Neighborhood Watch group, before Memorial Day and are left there gives out two $500 college scholarships a for homeowners to enjoy and use on July year to high school seniors, hosts com4th or at their pleasure. munity yard sales twice a year and “The flags started as a way to honor awards cash prizes totaling $550 for the our residents who served or are currently best holiday lights every year. active duty in the military,” said Dorsey, “Our efforts are to make this a better who has been president of the HOA for place for our residents and to put 17 years. “Living as close as we do to Buckhorn on the map as a place that MacDill, we have a large number of resipeople in this area want to live,” said dents who deserved to be thanked and Dorsey. respected for all they have done for our The Buckhorn subdivision is located country.” on S. Miller Rd. with four entrances, one The flags are purchased using a por- on E. Bloomingdale Ave. just east of tion of the community’s $30 per houseLithia Pinecrest Rd. For more information, hold membership dues which also provisit www.Buckhorn.us or email vide many other events and services to BEHA@Buckhorn.us. residents throughout the year.
All boaters are encouryour vessel will receive a aged to have a safe and 2019 VSC (Vessel Safety enjoyable boating season. Check) sticker. Flotilla 74, Brandon of the Life Jackets - Vessels 16 U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary ft. or longer must have one encourages all boaters to ‘throwable’ Type IV PFD have a safe and enjoyable (Personal Flotation Device) 2019 summer boating seathat is USCG approved and son. immediately available. Florida Two Boating Safety law states that children under classes, taught by Galen 6 years old must wear a Galen Johnson, com- USCG approved life jacket at Johnson, a USCG Master mander of Flotilla 74 Licensed Captain and all times on any vessel less Brandon of the U.S. Coxswain and Commander Coast Guard Auxiliary than 26 ft. in length that is encourages boating of Flotilla 74 Brandon of the underway in Florida waters. safety classes. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Federal law states children are offered locally. under 13 must wear an appropriA one-day class is offered on ate Coast Guard-approved PFD, the second Saturday of each unless they are below decks or month. A more comprehensive in an enclosed cabin.” 13-week course on Boating Skills It is dangerous and illegal to and Seamanship is offered on a operate a vessel while under the rotating basis every Monday. influence of alcohol or other When completing one of the intoxicants. Have a designated courses, you will receive a ‘Safe operator for your vessel who will Boaters ID Card,’ which is a not drink during your outing. requirement for anyone born on or after Consider limiting alcohol consumption of January 1, 1988, who will be operating a passengers on the vessel for their safety. boat in Florida waters with an engine of The U.S. Coast Guard Safe Boating 10 horsepower or more. app includes state boating information; Johnson said, "Safe boating is fun safety equipment checklist; free boating boating. Any time you take a vessel on safety check requests; navigation rules; the water you must be predictable. The float plans and calling features to report only way to achieve this is training in safe pollution or suspicious activity and much boating practices." more. Visit https://uscgboating.org/mobile The Flotilla has resources available for all of its features. to serve and assist boaters. For information on Flotilla 74, call Certified Vessel Examiners are avail644-2894 or visit www.uscgboating.org or able to look your vessel over to make https://myfwc.com/boating/safety-educasure that your vessel meets Federal and tion for boating safety. State safety requirements. Upon passing,
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Page 18
Volume 16, Issue 6
Valrico Edition
ser, i a r d n g Fu o D e c For i r a e Serv Y r Of e e t n ore… u l M Vo & n r Fu lle Colesanti, o F s i n Ten Miche r.com e iled by Comp ospreyobserv e@ michell
Help Crystal Hook Get The Service Dog She Needs
Crystal Hook, age 28, was born with developmental delays, is nonverbal and is 90 percent blind. She has trouble with everyday life because of her disabilities, such as having tantrums over walking or going to the restroom. These disabilities have left her without friends due to being unable to connect well with others. A fundraiser will be held at Texas Roadhouse, 13006 S. US Hwy. 301 in Riverview on Monday, June 24 from 4-10 p.m. Present the flyer (either printed or on your mobile device) and 10 percent of your total food purchases will be donated to Service Dog for Crystal Hook. You can find a copy of the flyer at www.facebook.com/events/40646584 0199733/?active_tab=discussion.
Brandon High Student Volunteer Of The Year ‘Tennis For Fun’
Brandon High School student, Alexandra Antunez, received ‘Tennis For Fun‘ 2019 Sydney Wynne Volunteer of the Year Award for her exceptional dedication to coaching the special needs athletes. The award was presented by the family of Sydney, Julie, Brian and Josh Wynne. Sydney was a dedicated ‘Tennis For Fun’ volunteer until her passing at the age of 16. The award is given in her memory. ‘Tennis For Fun’ is a free tennis clinic for special needs athletes of all ages. It began in 2000. Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center has donated court time to the program for the past 18 years. The Program is run entirely by volunteers. If you would like to volunteer visit www.tennisforfun.org. Clinics will resume on Friday, November 1.
Music Showcase Celebrated International Drum Month
Music Showcase in Brandon celebrated International Drum Month on Saturday, May 18. The full-line retail store and education center hosted an
Mink explained to the drummers how to hold the sticks and some basic techniques. Mink said, “It was a fun day.” Music Showcase also invited the drumline from Newsome The Newsome Drumline recently played at Music Showcase’s event High celebrating International Drum Month in May. School in Lithia to event with the assistance of the show off its drum cadences. Music Percussion Marketing Council. The Showcase had activities like cornstore offered free lessons and tips to hole, making egg shakers and drum drummers of all ages. Drum coloring sheets. It had a spinning Instructor and store associate Bill wheel for people to spin and win a prize like drum sticks, lesson books, and other drum accessories and offered specials and discount pricing on drums and drum accessories inside its store. KONA Ice served up slushies. This was the first time the store held an event like this. It hopes to make it an annual event. Tennis For Fun: L-R: Brian Wynne, Alexandra Antunez, Julie Wynne and Josh Wynne.
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June 2019
Page 19
Valrico Edition
The Legend Of Frankenstein Continues
Women’s Care Florida Opens New Women’s Health Center In Plant City
The Village Players Jones also wrote Valrico will present the The Legend of original play, The Frankenstein. He is Legend of Frankenstein currently working on Continues, this June. two additional plays, The Legend of The Beautiful People in Frankenstein Continues the Cottage and I Am was written by and is The First Lady. directed by Carlton When asked what Jones. inspired him to write The Village Players this play, Jones said, "I are planning an openwas inspired by people ing night with their now asking what happened famous Dinner and a to the Frankenstein Show on Friday, June The Village Players will present the child from my original original play, The Legend of 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets are play. I was also inspired Frankenstein Continues, this June at $35 per person and the historic James McCabe Theatre by Mary Wollstonecraft must be purchased in in Valrico. The cast and crew have Shelley's legendary been working hard to bring to life advance. You can call tale.” playwright and director, Carlton 480-3147 to make a Jones is a veteran Jones’ vision for this play. reservation. director with the Village Regular shows of The Legend of Players, having directed Rope and Jekyll Frankenstein Continues will be presented and Hyde, the Musical. on Friday, June 21 and Saturday, June 15 Jones said of the cast of The and 22 at 8 p.m. There will be two matiLegend of Frankenstein Continues, "We nees on Sunday, June 16 and 23 at 3 have a great group of new and veteran p.m. performers in the cast. I look forward to General admission tickets are $18. this wonderfully talented cast and crew Seniors and military with ID are $15. bringing my vision to life.” Groups of 10 or more who purchase All shows will be performed at the advance tickets are $15. historic James McCabe Theatre located The Legend of Frankenstein at 506 5th St. in Valrico. The building Continues tells the story of Besselia which houses the theatre was built in Frankenstein, the daughter of the leg1915 and is the only remaining commerendary Victor Frankenstein. While discov- cial structure from Valrico’s small land ering young love, she also discovered the boom at the turn of the 20th Century. truth about her father and his creature. For information on the Village She also learns that her father was not Players Valrico, a nonprofit arts organizathe only person creating life from the tion, please visit www.thevillageplaydead. ersvalrico.com.
Women’s Troy, MD; Care Florida Sarasija recently Nithya announced that Nagella, MD; its new Lisa Martin, Women’s APRN; Health Center – Ignacio Plant City is Armas, MD; now open. An Allyson open house Jones, MD; Women’s Care Florida recently opened its new was held on Zayda Women’s Health Center – Plant City at 2108 Thonotosassa Rd. in Plant City. May 22 to celeCharmorro, brate the new office. Tours were offered MD; Alice Honiker, APRN; Linda Ottl, and visitors were able to meet the APRN; Rhonda Jackson, APRN; and providers and learn about their services. Melissa Courtney, CNM. The building, located at 2108 To schedule an appointment or ask Thonotosassa Rd., houses providers further questions, call the Women’s Care from both Women’s Care Florida – Florida – Women’s Care office at 754Women’s Care (previously located at 103 7561. Call the Women’s Care Florida – Southern Oaks Dr.) and Women’s Care OB/GYN Associates office at 752-4103 Florida – OB/GYN Associates (previously Women’s Care Florida was founded located at 1503 W. Reynolds St.). in 1998 and is the largest independent “Our providers have served patients women’s health practice in Central in the Plant City community for more than Florida. It has 100 locations across 30 years,” said Women’s Care Florida Central and North Florida, and offers a full Regional Administrator Kea Jones. “We’re range of care for women including obstetlooking forward to many more years of rics and gynecology, fertility, maternal fetal caring for women’s health needs and medicine, gynecologic oncology, urogyneoffering expanded services in this beauticology, breast surgery, endocrinology, ful new facility.” gastroenterology, primary care, genetic The 15,372 sq. ft. Women’s Health counseling, plastic and reconstructive surCenter – Plant City offers plenty of space gery, behavioral health, and a full range of to care for patients and offer a variety of state-of-the-art lab and imaging services. services including annual wellness The organization has undergone rapid exams, obstetrics and gynecology, ultragrowth and remains true to its mission of sounds, menopause treatments and inimproving the lives of women every day. office procedures. Women’s Care Florida For more information, call 754-7561. providers who have moved into the new Current Women’s Care Florida patients facility include Maruja Fernandez, MD; can log in to the patient portal at Steven Granger, MD; Jennifer Lopez www.womenscarefl.com.
Village Players To Perform
By Kathy L. Collins
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Page 20
Volume 16, Issue 6
Valrico Edition
Keysville: 1880 Boom Town, Second Largest City At One Time The community of Keysville, about 12 miles southeast of Plant City, is one of the oldest settlements in eastern Hillsborough County. Surprisingly, in 1880 its population was around 500, second in size only to Tampa. Keysville was settled in the early 1870s when pioneers trekked to the Alafia River’s North Prong, centered around today’s Porter Road. Typical of those first settlers were Stephen and Elizabeth Lightsey who migrated by oxen cart from Georgia. They owned a small herd of cattle and established an orange grove, along with other crops, on homesteaded property. Lightsey became known as the ‘sweet potato king’ of Keysville. It was lumber, however, that fueled Keysville’s growth. The land was heavily timbered with dense pine forests and occasional stands of oak trees. Hewn lumber was in heavy demand, and the forests around Keysville provided a large supply. The father of Keysville’s lumber industry was a Georgian: ‘Captain’ Daniel McQueen Blue. Blue was appointed as the town’s first postmaster and named the town of Keysville, in honor of US Postmaster General David Key. Captain Blue’s most significant contribution however, was in establishing a lumber mill on the south bank of the Alafia. The saw mill was driven by a large steam engine that alternately powered the lumber mill, a grist mill, and two cotton gins. His mill even changed the face of
By Charles Nelson
sary supplement to their farming income. Keysville’s economy boomed in the late 19th century. After the turn of the century however, the mill and the community’s farming fortunes, both began to falter. Timber Photo courtesy of Florida Memory Project
Keysville Lumber Company Employees
Strawberry fields
Today’s Keysville Road
Keysville as early log houses were torn down and rebuilt as full-porched, frame houses with lumber cut at his mill. Blue used the Alafia River to transport lumber to ports serving distant markets. His products, among many others, included small cedar slats exported to the Peninsula Pencil Factory in New York City and citrus crates that were produced in large numbers. The mill became a mainstay of the community and Keysville’s largest employer, hiring many area farmers seeking a neces-
resources became increasingly scarce and were depleted by 1918. In 1906 Blue’s mill, renamed Keysville Mill Co., closed following his death. The loss of the mill was a devastating blow to Keysville’s economy as it eliminated a source of supplemental income for some Keysville farmers. Coronet (phosphate) mines opened in 1908, providing a few replacement jobs, but the mines drew many farmers away from Keysville. By 1916, Keysville’s population dropped to a mere 85. The Great
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Depression years that followed were exceedingly hard on small farmers who had little opportunity to earn additional income despite a small increase in mining jobs. Compounding farmers’ problems, Seaboard Railroad ceased operating its Keysville tracks around 1930 restricting access to markets. Roads, which could aid access, were not paved until the 1940s. A significant blow to Keysville’s small farm economy occurred in 1956 when, the ‘Strawberry’ school schedule was eliminated. A twomonth winter break allowing school kids to help their families pick strawberries was replaced with normal school scheduling. Many strawberry farmers could not afford to pay outsiders to do work previously performed by their kids. As a result, many small farmers were forced to sell their farms. Not until the 1970s did strawberry farming rebound when migrant workers helped revitalize strawberry farming, but the accumulated economic damage to Keysville had been done. Keysville, once Hillsborough County’s second largest town, had all but disappeared as a result of fifty years of economic damage to the once booming community. Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in History form George Mason University and taught as an adjunct instructor at HCC (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated with Tampa Bay History Center as a volunteer docent, researcher and community lecturer, with an emphasis on South Hillsborough County history.
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June 2019
Page 21
Valrico Edition
Meet Your Local Florida State House Of Representatives
By Kathy L. Collins
The Florida House Hattersley, a small of Representatives is business owner from the lower house of the Brandon. Hattersley is Florida Legislature. The a Democrat who was state is divided into 120 elected in 2018. districts. Legislative disHattersley said, tricts are drawn on the “We are here to serve basis of population. House District 59 and The numbers are taken to keep our residents from the United States informed about what is decennial census. happening in In the Greater Tallahassee that will Brandon area, we are affect their daily lives. represented by three Our job is to help, lisstate representatives in ten to, and represent Districts 57, 58 and 59. you with integrity and District 57, which transparency. I have covers a large swath of lived here for over 10 Hillsborough County years and understand that includes Lithia, the issues that our Valrico, Riverview, communities face.” Mike Beltran, a resident of Lithia, repLawrence McClure, a resident of Adam Hattersley, a resident of Gibsonton, Apollo resents the people who reside in Hattersley’s local Dover, represents the people who Brandon, represents the people who District 57. reside in District 58. Beach, Sun City Center reside in District 59. office is located at His district secreMcClure said, and Wimauma, is represented by 11252 Winthrop Main St. Ste. B in tary is Jeffrey Hawes and his local “Serving in the Florida House of Mike Beltran, a resident of Lithia. Riverview. The phone number is 657Representatives is an honor, and I Beltran, a Republican, was elected in legislative office is located at 3618 7781. His district assistant is Cassidy Erindale Dr. in Valrico. The phone will continue to work hard to serve 2018. Whitaker and his legislative aide is number is 653-7097. The office is the people of District 58. Beltran said, “As the Amy Bolick. open Monday through Friday from 9 McClure’s local legislative office Representative of District 57, I am While home, Hattersley is plana.m. to 5 p.m. is located at 110 W. Reynolds St. in dedicated to the Constitution, and ning events including Town Halls and To stay updated on the events Plant City. Amy Carpenter is his law is one of the most important other community events over the Beltran is holding or attending, you District Assistant and Kyle Langan is things to me professionally.” Beltran summer. can follow him on Facebook. his Legislative Aide. The office phone added, “I believe that representing You can access current informaDistrict 58, which covers the number is 757-9110. McClure said, the people of District 57 goes beyond tion on legislation and other matters areas of Dover, Seffner and Plant “Our office provides assistance to our taken up by the Florida House of the time constraints of the legislative city, is represented by Dover resiconstituents on matters or issues session.” Representatives by visiting dent, Lawrence McClure. He is a dealing with state agencies and govBeltran is an attorney who prachttp://www.myfloridahouse.gov. Republican who was elected in a ernment departments.” tices in the areas of business, To find your elected official, special election in 2017 and then reDistrict 59, which covers employment, construction, real please visit www.votehillsborough.org elected in 2018. McClure is a busiRiverview, Brandon, Valrico and Palm and click on Candidates. estate, securities, shareholder disness consultant. River, is represented by Adam putes and creditor rights.
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Valrico Edition
Family-Owned Hi Tech Automotive Shop Celebrates 15 Years
By Kate Quesada
For 15 years, from other garages, Brandon area drivers Melissa answered have trusted their cars easily. to the Canfield family. “We go the extra Owners of Hi Tech mile,” she said. Automotive, located This was echoed on S. Montclair Ave., by some of their many Joe and Melissa customers. Canfield “Hi Tech has prohave vided quality service serviced at unbeatable prices thouon our vehicles from Melissa & Joe Canfield own Hi Tech sands of vehicles for oil changes to major Automotive and are celebrating its 15th happy customers repairs,” said anniversary this month. since they bought the garage in 2004. FishHawk resident Melina Olver. “Their The list of services offered at Hi Tech customer service from the owner to the is long, from quick lube services to service tech is over the top. They even extended warrantee work, but what really helped us on Easter Sunday last year. No sets the garage apart is the staff’s dedica- one likes to visit the mechanic, but I tion to customers and the community. always leave Hi Tech with a smile on my “We strive to be advisors and probface.” lem solvers for our customers,” said But for the Canfields, owning a small Melissa. “Rather than strong-arming peobusiness is more than just making cusple who are worried about their car into a tomers happy. service, we like to be able to tell them “We do everything we can to give whats going on and then give them back to the community that has made this options and advice on how we would fix it dream come true for us,” said Melissa, if we were facing the issue ourselves.” who holds leadership positions at two The family-run business with 12 fulllocal chamber of commerces and time employees is a dream come true for Newsome High School PTA and sponsor Joe who has worked in the auto industry countless sports teams and charity for most of his life, including 12 years with groups. Goodyear in both retail and wholesale. To celebrate 15 years in business, “Working for Goodyear, Hi Tech’s the now award-winning, People’s Choice previous owners were one of Joe’s Best of the Best, Hi Tech is hosting a ribclients, so when the opportunity to buy bon cutting ceremony on Friday, June 28 the garage came up, we decided to do from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit www.hitechautowhatever we had to do to make it hapmotiveofbrandon.com or call the garage pen,” said Melissa. at 684-1556. Hi Tech is located at 119 S. When asked what sets Hi Tech apart Montclair Ave. in Brandon.
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Volume 16, Issue 6
Boulevard Salon Celebrates 10 Years With Specials On Services, Prizes & More For the last 10 years, Boulevard Salon in Brandon has redefined the salon experience through its internationally trained staff by offering individuals the latest in every aspect of hair artistry. In addition, it also provides the best esthetician, massage therapists, nail technicians, permanent make-up artists and more in Hillsborough County. Boulevard Salon opened in 2009. Before this came into fruition, owner Kathy Hegenauer had established the first day spa in this county called The Salon and Spa. Once achieving great success with that business, she decided to sell it and spend time with her young children. She took five years off to become a full-time mother. Hegenauer eventually went back doing what she loved and this would be how Boulevard Salon started. Hegenauer shares her feelings about Boulevard Salon’s 10 year anniversary. “I am very humble and grateful for the wonderful clients and staff that have helped us reach this milestone.” The 2,500 sq. ft. space features a full-service salon for all. With 14 members
By Tatiana Ortiz
on staff, Boulevard Salon has stylists who cater to men’s cuts, all coloring and highlighting services, waxing services and much more. It also carries product lines such as Image Skincare, Moroccan Oil and Sebastian, just to name a few. Boulevard Salon sells jewelry and boutique items too. Hegenauer feels that her salon is unique. “We are dedicated to our clients’ satisfaction and continue to learn the latest trends in all areas of our industry.” Throughout the month of June in honor of Boulevard Salon’s 10th year anniversary, Hair Stylist Natalie will offer 20 percent off all hair services. The Salon will also offer 15 percent off all hair and skin care products. Do not miss out on the giveaways and special treats during this month as well. For more information, visit https://boulevardsalon210.com. It is located at 210 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. Boulevard Salon is open Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. For more information, call 571-5800.
June 2019
Page 23
Valrico Edition
Premier Radiation Oncology Welcomes New Physician Janelle Park, M.D.
By Michelle Caceres
Radiation oncolomizes the delivery of gist Janelle Park, M.D., treatment. has joined Dr. Premier Radiation Engelman and the Oncology Chief Radiation team at Premier Therapist Lauren Murray Radiation Oncology’s said that means they are Riverview office, locatable to be extremely preed at 3140 South cise when delivering treatFalkenburg Rd. Dr. ments. Park earned her med“The patient centered ical degree through a design of the Halcyon joint program with the allows our therapists to Ohio State University focus on the patient to Medical School and ensure accuracy of the the Cleveland Clinic treatments,” she said. Foundation and comPatients also apprecipleted her residency at ate the quick treatment Radiation Oncologist Janelle Park, time. the University of M.D., has joined the team at Southern California “Patients receive Premier Radiation Oncology with training at treatment five days a Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. week and this machine cuts their daily “I look forward to working with a won- treatment time in half,” she said. “From derful group of physicians who are wellstart to finish, their treatment can be comrespected in the community,” she said. pleted in as little as five minutes.” Board-certified by the American Even though the treatment time is Board of Radiology, Dr. Park has more reduced, Murray said the investment in than 10 years of clinical experience using every single patient’s journey is just as a variety of radiation machines, including strong. “They’re our family,” she said. GammaKnife, CyberKnife and TruBeam. It’s that family dynamic and high level Premier Radiation Oncology’s newest of patient care that drew Dr. Park to radiation machine, Varian’s Halcyon linear Premier Radiation Oncology. “Cancer accelerator, presents an opportunity to patients are so brave and true heroes work with some of the latest technology in that we get to interact with every day,” cancer treatment. she said. “They inspire us to do more and Radiation therapy uses high-energy be better as we combat cancer.” particles or waves, such as x-rays or Premier Radiation Oncology is open electrons, to destroy or damage cancer Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. For cells. Halcyon is a 100 percent imagemore information or an appointment, call guided radiotherapy system that opti734-8911.
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Page 24
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 6
Valrico
Wedding Guide June 2019
Volume 16, Issue 6
Enroll Your Child In Kumon-Math & Reading Enrichment Program
Kumon is an afterschool math and reading enrichment program that unlocks the potential of children, so they can achieve more on their own. As a comprehensive program, Kumon serves children in preschool through high school. The learning method uses an individualized approach that helps children develop a solid command of math and reading skills. Through daily practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration, and develop better study skills. Kumon has over four million students enrolled at nearly 25,000 learning centers in 50 countries and regions. The local Instructor, Katherine Mandry, has been guiding students to academic success and confidence for 20 years. Make an appointment for your child’s free placement test and parent orientation today. Kumon Math and Reading of Brandon-Bloomingdale is located at 1114 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Call 661-1952.
D-BAT Southshore Offers Pitch Machines, Pitching And Hitting Tunnels And More
Jacob and Erica Collier are the
Ph: 657-2418
Pages Pages 29-36 50-55
narian at the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center. Dr. Offner had served as a PRC staff veterinarian from 2016-2018 and led the department’s efforts to treat parvo-infected dogs and puppies. More than 40 dogs have owners of D-BAT been treated for parvo at Southshore, an indoor A recent grand re-opening of Life’s PRC since the program baseball and softball Treasures Thrift Store in Brandon celebrated began in March 2018 with its 1,000-sq.ft. expansion. training and fun center a success rate of 90 perwith a full pro shop cent. Previously, parvo catering to all – from new boutique section was predominantly a fatal beginner to professionals. You will find that features a neardiagnosis. pitching machines, open practice areas, endless selection of Dr. Offner with Snoopy, treated Dr. Offner earned her camps and clinics. Private lessons are today’s trends in for parvo at PRC. veterinary degree at the also available. women’s clothing, University of Florida and previously has Hours are Monday to Friday from 1shoes, and accessories. In the store served as staff veterinarian with the San 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. customers can find men’s and women’s Diego (California) Humane Society and and Sunday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. clothing for all ages and sizes, as well the SPCA Florida shelter in Lakeland. D-BAT Southshore is located at 351 as furniture, housewares, books, She will oversee a department that 30th St. NE in Ruskin. For more inforantiques and much more. All items are performed nearly 8,000 dog and cat mation, call 645-3228 or visit gently used, pre-owned, nearly new or sterilizations last year in the departwww.DBATsouthshore.com. never been worn. ment’s ongoing effort to reduce pet overVolunteers are always welcome and population. PRC veterinarians perGrand Re-opening Of Life’s tax-deductible donations are appreciatformed an additional 277 lifesaving surTreasures Thrift Store Celebrated ed. All of the store's proceeds support geries and specialized treatments last Life's Treasures Thrift LifePath Hospice in HIllsborough year on pets that otherwise would not Store located at 1335 W. County. Call 653-4616. have been adopted or rescued. In all, Brandon Blvd. celebrated PRC staff cared for more than 17,000 its grand re-opening on Dr. Offner Named Chief Friday, May 17. The event Veterinarian At County Pet Resource dogs and cats last year. The Pet Resource Center is the marked the completion of Center county’s only open admissions shelter, a near 1,000-sq. ft. expanHillsborough County recently welmeaning it accepts all dogs and cats sion, including a brand comed Dr. Mallory Offner as chief veteri-
Continued on Next Page
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Volume 16, Issue 6
Valrico Edition
Business Column Continued.............
By Michelle Colesanti
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Ace Golf Brandon Closes
After 26 years, the Ace Golf in Brandon closed to make way for the future site of 333 apartments by Edward Rose Properties. Ace Golf will now focus on its Riverview location which opened in 2003. Ace Golf Riverview was named a “Top 100 Standalone Golf Range in the US” last year and every year for the past 6 years by Golf Range Magazine. Further upgrades to the Riverview location are anticipated for next year, including LED lighting, new batting cage netting and more. Craig Skiles, manager of Ace Golf Brandon, will become Golf Director at the Plantation Palms Golf Club in Land O’ Lakes. Sean Walter, Assistant Manager of Ace Golf Brandon, will become Assistant Manager of Ace Golf Riverview. Some of our other staff members and golf instructors will also move to Ace Golf Riverview. The Manager of Ace Golf Riverview is Matt Primrose, who was named ‘Top 50 Golf Instructor in the US’ by US Kids Golf and has been recognized the last five years by the PGA for his contribution to junior golf. Ace Golf is located at 12910 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. For more information, visit https://ace-golf.com/.
Frontier Communications’Donates $5,500 To Organization Fighting Children’s Cancer Frontier Communications’
Frontier Communications donated $5,500 to Apple A Day, which provides mobile devices and laptops to children with cancer at no cost to families.
recycling drive with a company donation to provide $5,500 in support for Apple A Day, a Tampa-based non-profit organization helping children fighting cancer. “The Apple A Day Foundation is very grateful for this generous support from Frontier’s Simply Wi-Fi Secure service,” said Phoebe Kushner, Executive Director, Apple A Day Foundation. “The true beneficiaries of this donation are the young cancer patients we help by taking their minds off of their daily fight with cancer.” The Apple A Day program provides devices, such as tablets, smartphones and laptops to children ages 2 to 17 undergoing cancer treatment, at no cost to them or their families. Treatments can keep children from normal experiences and interactions, so technology can provide a welcome bridge and sense of normalcy. Since launching the program, the organization has presented more than
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500 iPads/devices to to end of children fighting canSeptember. cer. Apple a Day Poke is tradiFoundation, Inc. is a tionally a Hawaiian non-profit corporation raw fish salad. registered in Florida Poke Burri starts and New York. with this premise “Frontier’s creand allows cusative combination of tomers to order an environmentallyfrom a menu of friendly recycling prospecialty poke gram with a donation L-R Coach Louis and Coach Fernando with dishes, or create the ‘Tennis For Fun’ athletes at the end of their own dish for a from our Simply Wiseason awards party. Fi Secure service food service expehas allowed Apple A Day to give ten rience that is unlike most concepts in children fighting cancer the ability to the market. connect and communicate with the The restaurant represents the world around them via lifestyle, culture, and spirit of technology,” said Melanie the founders, Seven Chan Williams, Frontier’s South and Ken Yu. With years of Region Senior Vice food and business experiPresident for Operations. ence Poke Burri represents “We are honored to play a their commitment to being small part in making that the best at what they do fight a bit more manageincluding freshness, flavor, able.” and an emphasis on the customer experience. CVS Managers For more information, Honored As Tennis For visit www.pokeburri.com/.
Fun’ Volunteers
CVS managers are New Training Facility giving back to the comOpen On Lithia Pinecrest munity. Louis Sparkman Poke Burri ‘s first restaurant Road (Brandon store) and Residents looking to in the Tampa Bay market will open in the Westshore reach a higher level of fitFernando Rodriguez area in late summer. (Seffner store) were ness have a new option. recently honored for their eight years of Advanced Training Programs recently love and dedication to ‘Tennis For Fun’ started working with athletes of all levels athletes. Coach Louis and Coach in the BPHAT Fitness facility on Lithia Fernando have been volunteering every Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Friday at the ‘Tennis For Fun’ Clinics According to owner Michael held at Brandon Sports And Aquatic Wohltmann, the group offers a compreCenter for eight years. hensive strength coaching experience ‘Tennis For Fun’ is a free tennis clin- and all coaching is individualized to the ic for special needs athletes of all ages. participant. The Brandon clinics run from November “Clients are coached to be stronger, till May. The programs are at BSAC, leaner and healthier,” said Wohltmann. FishHawk, Tampa Palms “Lifestyle coaching Country Club, HCC accompanies the sesTampa Tennis, and on sions with dietary Davis Islands. The proassistance, nutrition grams are run entirely by and lifestyle changes.” volunteers. Volunteers (no Hours are availtennis experience able by appointment Advanced Training Programs required). Visit www.tennonly and special recently started offering compreisforfun.org or call Judy at strength training and hensive strength coaching on 417-3751. coaching is available Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. for teens in addition to Poke Burri Slated To Open In one to one training for all age groups. Westshore Area Late Summer For more information, visit Poke Burri, a Georgia-based restau- www.advancedtrainingprograms.com or rant company that provides a healthy call 360-8560. Find the group on and delicious dining experience focused Facebook @Advanced Training around the popular dish, known as poke Programs. BPHAT is located at 3638 is slated to open at 4038 W. Kennedy Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and can be reached Ave. near Westshore in Tampa. It is slat- at 967-2036. ed to open somewhere from mid-August
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June 2019
Valrico Edition
Page 27
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Valrico Edition
Mr. George Garner
rner Mr. Ga gdale
Teacher Of The Month
e a teacher? Why did you decide to becom g with others love of learning, and sharin my in say to e m hav o I'd lo B y of ours. I Citizen of this great countr a High be to r ans me io it at n wh this e S ily members who have served School come from a long line of fam e ry branch. I, myself a Marin country in the military in eve t of War. Service is an integral par Veteran of the Persian Gulf nto my me rs a natural fit for me. Most of e am y bec It B ; ng d chi tea re o Spons , in life were either educators e r u the t to s a tie had n Sig coaches and/or re military in some facet. All we Wade to pe ho I teachers to me. students pas encom s the same for my m. for the as the best Teacher I can be cher? tea a as rs you of What is a goal ductive memTo help students become pro l model cessfu bers of society; become suc y. I capitalize ntr cou at gre s thi Citizens of a ny have forCitizen, because I believe ma ly means; gotten what Citizenship tru e. I want to especially the aspect of servic you can ever make leaders. I don't think t truly serv- Mr. G truly lead others without firs arner h rship go Pictured as been a teach er fo with ing others. Service and Leade Aust, 97 guest speaker, C r 21 years year old o hand and hand! WWII fly l. Abner ing ace. ool spirit? How do you show your sch nate supporter of getI have always been a passio other ir school through sports and ting students involved in the the school were of n ny years ago, the Spirit Me used to extracurricular activities. Ma Cu teachers, Tom mmings, ow fell my of e on and f sel not students. My ng informal bets There apparently were ongoi be the original 'Spirit Men.’ ng to get injured first? going on about, Who was goi t you live by? the anvil, Is there a quote or saying tha m ever alike: When you are the et me d An e, par pre s "For all your day by one of my favorite mer, strike." (Given to me bear-- When you are the ham I was young.) mentors to decipher when e to see in schools today? What changes would you lik ndardized Tests; more bility; less emphasis on Sta More (behavioral) accounta truly preparing stunt; and more importantly, practical application assessme uld be a great start. ore Vocational education wo dents for the real world....M e bar is supposed to as well; Stop lowering it. Th Raise the bar of expectations bar. -Semper Fidelis! be a high jump not a limbo
Volume 16, Issue 6
Students Encouraged To Promote Crosswalk Safety With Video Contest By Kate Quesada
Valrico resihelmet, walking a dent Danielle bike, looking both Waymire wants ways before crossHillsborough ing, pushing the County students crosswalk buttons to have fun while and listening to promoting safety crossing guards. this summer. “We are lookWaymire has ing for the most teamed up fun, creative, out with Safe Bus of the box video,” for Us, a local said Waymire. advocacy “We want the stuHillsborough County students are invited to group, to offer a dents to enjoy participate in a summer contest to promote Crosswalk Safety making them and crosswalk safety. Video Contest with prizes and the chance show their sense of humors so that the for the students’ work to be seen at other students will enjoy watching and schools throughout the district. learning from them.” “Our goal is to get the students to Videos can be emailed to crosshave fun while helping others underwalksafetyvideo@gmail.com and need stand the importance of crosswalk safeto be submitted by Monday, July 8. ty,” said Waymire, who was instrumental The email should include contact in bringing crossing guards to Rodgers, information, the name of the school Randall and Mulrennan Middle Schools the students attend and a signed and brought the issue of crosswalk safe- parental consent letter. Without the ty to the Hillsborough County Board of consent letter, the video will be ineligiCounty Commissioners, who recently ble. voted to start funding crossing guards at “Safety is very important,” said all county middle schools. “We now, Waymire. “Do not create your video in thankfully, have all of this new infrastruc- an unsafe environment.” ture and a lot of the kids don’t know how Prizes will be awarded for first, to use it, so we are hoping these videos second and third place and videos will will help spread the word.” be judged by Osprey Observer repreThe videos, which should show the sentatives. The contest is sponsored proper way to cross a crosswalk, should by Cardinal Roofing, Osprey Observer be two minutes or less and must adhere and Safe Bus for Us. to the School District of Hillsborough To learn more about crosswalk County’s policies including dress code. safety, visit www.fdot.gov/safety/6Suggestions for video content include resources/crosswalk-safety/crosswalknot looking at cellphones, wearing a safety.shtm.
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Wedding Guide Showcases Best In Local Venues, Bakeries & Styles
F
or Doug and I, it’s been 24 years next month since we said ‘I Do!’. As styles have updated and changed, some traditions have also stayed the same. A marriage is a celebration of a partnership for life. It’s the merging of two families to create a stronger, better bond. The wedding day itself is that cumulation of efforts and should be savored and enjoyed. One of the first decisions should be the venue and locally, we have three venues that offer every type of setting to make that wedding day special. Starting off at The Barn at Winthrop which offers an intimate setting in the heart of Brandon. Nearby is the gorgeous event venue, The Regent with vast ceilings, an amazing photo staircase and chandeliers. And, nearby is Cross Creek Ranch with 5 ceremony sites and 2 reception venues nestled under the Grand Oaks and over the wooden creek bridge. No matter the wedding style, there is a local venue for every wedding occaision. To help make some of those wedding decisions easier, each venue has a planner who will assist with each step of the planning. And, for those with future nuptials in the horizon, the first ever Brandon Bridal Expo and Fashion
By Marie Gilmore
In our community, we are also fortunate to have McAuley Fine Jewelry located right on Oakfield Dr. to take care of the investment in the wedding rings and custom jewelry needs. For cakes and catering, it doesn’t get better than the award-winning Petite Madelyn’s Bakery and All in One Event Catering who will make cake design and meal planning a breeze with a professional team. From start to finish, a wedding day is a day of celebration and within this 2019 Wedding Guide, we hope you find the services you need to make your day last a lifetime! Congratulations and may your wedding day be a fairy tale come true!
YOUR EVENT VENUE
Sincerely,
WEDDINGS & EVENTS Show is coming Sunday, June 23, 12-4 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn. A lucky bride is going to win a $10,000 wedding package to kick off the arrangements. The most important photos of the wedding day will be of the bride and groom and their wedding party and we
have articles, advice and tips from a local expert, Amy West owner of Flora’s Bridal, who has her finger on the pulse of trends and styles.
Marie Gilmore
Managing Editor Former Bride, Current Wife
The Regent Is A Perfect Venue For Your Wedding And Other Celebrations By Kathy L. Collins
Every bride wants their special day to be a memorable one. The perfect venue will add to the lasting memories for both the bride and groom and all who attend the big day. The Regent, located in Riverview, is one of largest venues in the area, but it can also be a small, intimate and stylish one. A bride can opt to have both the ceremony and reception at The Regent or just the reception. The Regent offers an attractive outdoor courtyard complete with a sweeping staircase and three ballrooms that can be combined to hold up to 500 people. Shannon Keil is the Executive Director for The Regent. Keil, along with Brittanny Edwards the Event Manager, and Ashley Hodson, Event Coordinator can provide as much or as little advice and counsel as the bride wants or requires. The Regent’s al a carte presentation allows the do-it-yourself bride as well as the planner guided bride to their perfect day. The Regent is a beautiful blank
palette. The pristine wood floors and neutral colors will match any decor the bride desires. With its three beautiful large chandeliers in the ballroom suites and elegant details, there is a natural touch of class to any wedding or event. The Regent has several exclusive caterers and bar service that they have vetted over the years. The Regent vendors are members of the local community, and The Regent takes pride in supporting those local businesses. In addition to weddings, The Regent is a perfect venue for corporate events, celebration of life events, school functions and even charitable fundraising events for nonprofits. Keil said, "We offer special discounts for nonprofits to hold their events at The Regent." For more information, please visit www.ExperienceTheRegent.com, or call 571-2494 or email info@experiencetgeregent.com.
This Seasons Wedding Style Guide Includes Lots Of Lace By Amy West Flora’s Bridal
Lace, lace and more lace! This season we have seen an influx of brides looking for that perfect lace wedding gown. And it’s on a global scale. So much so, all our international designers are producing lace at nearly twice the rate of any other gown material. Low backs and illusion with lace sleeves are also at the top of our regions most wanted list. There are hundreds of styles of lace and each one of them creates a different look and feel. For example, Chantilly lace, a classic, is great for creating an antique rustic style look, which so many Florida brides adore. If you are looking for a more contemporary look, a lace applique with lattice netting is becoming increasingly popular. For that art deco feel try an embroidered baroque lace pattern. There truly is a lace to match every style. A lace gown can sparkle too. Many designers are using clear beadwork and/or sequins hidden throughout the gown to give the gowns a magical shimmer, tastefully, illuminating the bride as
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she walks down the aisle. If you are not a fan of all that lace can do, fear not. Simplistic crepe (think Meghan Markle), and satins are making a big comeback. At Flora’s we have found that lace or no lace, many brides want bling. Adding a sparkle belt or crystal straps to an otherwise classic simple gown will completely transform the gown into an envy worthy one of a kind. Many local stores carry head to toe ‘bling’ (crystal/ rhinestone beaded) gowns, as that is a style our region continues to adore. As far as bridal gown silhouettes go, there isn’t a specific trend one way or another. The bride will always determine the best shape based how she envisioned her wedding and how she feels in each style. While the trends may come and go, one constant remains; the most important element of a wedding gown is always the bride wearing it. When she finds that perfect dress style and trends are out the window and all the room can see is a glowing bride in her dream dress.
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Wedding Gowns: What To Know Before You Buy By Amy West Flora’s Bridal
Every bride dreams of that magical moment when she tries on her wedding gown for the first time. Unfortunately, that dream can quickly go awry if she is not prepared for what lies ahead. There are several important factors all brides should know before stepping out to find that perfect dress. First, it is never too early to start shopping. Most wedding gowns are made-toorder, meaning, they can very well take up to six months to get from the designer to the store. If the wedding is in less than six months, visit a local bridal boutique and give them the time frame upfront. Many shops work directly with designers and can either rush ship, sell the sample right off the rack, or check the designer’s warehouse inventory to decrease the wait time. That said, start early and avoid the hurdles if possible. Next, set a gown budget and stick to it. Wedding gowns are expensive
and can run from a couple hundred to several thousand dollars. It is highly advised to not try on gowns that are over budget, doing so is recipe for disappointment. When setting the budget keep in mind many bridal shops work with brides and allow a deposit for special orders cutting upfront costs in half. The remaining balance becomes due when the gown arrives in the shop. Check around as some shops offer layaway plans as well. Don’t forget to include alterations in the overall gown budget. Bridal alterations are more than simple tailoring; lace, hand sewn beadwork, and delicate materials all contribute to the high cost of bridal alterations. Brides should be prepared to spend between $300 and $800 on their alterations. Again, the materials and fit will determine the final cost. Most importantly, have fun! Every bride deserves an enchanted experience that she can treasure for a lifetime. Being prepared will allow the bride to enjoy her “yes to the dress” moment.
Buying ‘Off-The-Rack’ By Amy West Flora’s Bridal Most brides out shopping for their wedding gown are not familiar with all the intricacies of the bridal world and expect to walk into a store and leave with a dress. This just isn’t so in bridal. I’m sure you’ve heard the term before, she bought that off-therack. Well, what does it really mean? Wedding gowns are typically special ordered, not to be confused with custom ordered. Special ordered means the gown being purchased is ‘made to order’ however, it is made to a standard size and will need to be altered to perfectly fit the bride. Custom or couture gowns, are made as ordered to the bride’s exact measurements. The most obvious difference between special ordered vs. custom ordered is usually a few thousand dollars. Both can take up to six months or more to arrive in the shop. So where do off-the-rack gowns fit in? Generally bridal shop gowns are ‘samples’. These are the gowns brides try on before ordering themselves a sparkly new wedding dress. But, when a designer decides to no longer produce a certain style, bridal shops will sell these samples ‘off-the-rack’. As the dress is no longer available to order, a bride can walk into a
store and purchase the discontinued gown at a great discount and take it home the same day. There are some obvious benefits to purchasing a discontinued style: such as, no wait times, and the reduced pricing. However, there are hidden costs to purchasing off-the-rack to be aware of before saying yes. If the dress is the wrong size, i.e. too large, it could result in costly alterations. So much so, it is often more cost effective to special order a new gown. Also, samples may have some wear and tear. Cleaning a sample is sometimes necessary as well. Do not let just anyone clean the gown. Ensure they can clean the gown without melting or destroying the delicate fabrics and or bead-work. Regardless of whether your dress is special ordered or purchased off-the-rack, the results will be the same; a beautiful bride donning a dream gown, enchanting her guests. Absolutely, no one will know if that gown was off-the-rack or custom ordered, so follow your instincts and buy what you love. Amy West is the owner of Flora’s Bridal 768 W. Lumsden Rd. Brandon in La Viva Plaza. Call 684-0644 or visit florasbrides.com.
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Cross Creek Ranch Has Perfect Wedding Venue Close To Home By Marie Gilmore
Nested amongst Cross Creek Ranch. the grandfather oaks, The couple has owned the award-winning the venue and Bed & Cross Creek Ranch, Breakfast since 2004 and located right in the hosted its first two events that heart of the communiyear. Cross Creek Ranch is ty, is a true gem of a now celebrating 15 years in wedding and events business. venue and perfect for Sean, born and raised in groups from intimate Dorchester, MA, is a longtime gatherings to 150 ‘anything-Boston’ fan. Serving people. in the Navy for nine years, Spread across 17 Sean is the proud father of Cross Creek Ranch owners acres, Cross Creek two children, Tisha and Bonnie and Sean McSharry. Ranch offers Michael and a new five distinct grandson Finnigan and themed wedruns the operations side ding ceremony of the 17 acres with 25 sites including buildings on site. The Carriage House Stable, The Chapel, The slogan for Cross Creek Ranch Enchanted Forest, Oak Tree and The is, ‘Your Moments, Your Memories, Our French Country Inn and two reception Passion.” When planning an event at venues. Cross Creek Ranch, planners will take With a team of 20 professional staff, every difficult decision and help a couple every event is an all-inclusive ceremony plan their perfect day from colors, to flowfrom the intimate to the extravaganza. ers, to decor, food, music, cake and event Owners Bonnie and Sean McSharry linens. have expanded the property from 8 acres Cross Creek Ranch has been recogto its current 17 acres and continued nized with Wedding Wire Bride’s and improvements to the grounds and faciliCouple’s Choice awards, The Knot Best ties throughout the years. of Weddings Awards and The Best of “We’ve made improvements and Weddings Hall of Fame 2019. been honored to host so many wonderful Cross Creek Ranch is conveniently memories and we take pride in every located at 12950 E. Wheeler Rd., in event,” said Bonnie whose experience in Dover. Interior Design and business ownership Visit www.crosscreekranchfl.com or call married perfectly to the wedding venue at 651-0934 for details or a tour.
Choosing Wedding Rings Staff Report
The Perfect Wedding Band
Now that you have your engagement ring and settled on your venue and dress, it’s time to pick out the perfect band to accompany your left-hand sparkler. There are many factors to consider. Cost, comfort and overall style are a few of the most important ones.
your options with your partner before hitting up a jewelry store.
Set Your Budget
Try ‘Em On
Ironically, wedding bands are one of the most overlooked costs of planning a wedding — and they can be expensive. However, you can find beautiful rings in every budget. It is important to balance what you can afford with what you want to see on your hand for the rest of your life. Be sure to account for bands for both you and your significant other. Materials (gold, platinum or titanium) and gemstones will factor into the final price.
Matching Your Ring Versus Matching Your Partner’s
Answering this question will help you narrow down your choices a lot. If you want your wedding bands to match, then you need to discuss elements that both of you do (and perhaps more importantly don’t) want. Or perhaps there is a wedding band that matches your engagement ring. Be sure to discuss
Nothing will help you make a decision faster than seeing potential bands sitting next to your engagement ring. After you’ve set your budget and discussed your options with your significant other, it’s time to try on some rings. If you have the opportunity and the time, visit as many local jewelry stores as possible. You never know where you are going to find a deal and a truly breathtaking band. Plus, there is not much that beats spending a casual hour in a jewelry shop while associates bring you band after band to slip on your finger. throw out Rule Book There are no hard-and-fast rules to what type of wedding band you should choose, including choosing none at all. Stay true to your own style and budget and you will end up with a ring you are eternally happy with.
Brandon Bridal Expo & Fashion Show Sunday • June 23, 2019 12p.m. 4p.m. “An Intimate Wedding Affair” R OVE 0 0 , 0 $10 OR O IN D ES R P IZ
Participating Vendors: Visas and Vistas Travel Joy Beauty Club Med – Sand Piper Bay FL Lady Jane's Haircuts for Men Moreno Bakery Love Story Florist Full Moon Nail Bar Mary Kay Cosmetics Hilton Garden Inn Pure Romance Discount Party Supply Pepina Dell’Olio –Violinist The Essence of Live Art The Way 2 Dance DJ TyWy Sleep Number Bed Flora's Bridal Café El Marquezado The Pop Stop Souvenir Vision G2 Creations Souvenir Travel Hess Orthodontist United Vein Centers Jacka Saldaña - Fashion Designer Mission BBQ One of a Kind Management and Event Planning Diamonds and Pearl Event and Catering
Hilton Garden Inn
10309 Highland Manor Drive, Tampa East /Brandon FL 33610
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brandonbridalexpo@gmail.com
768 W Lumsden Rd. Brandon, FL 33511
8138365185
www.ToMaEvents.com
All In One At The Winthrop Barn Makes Perfect Wedding Venue By Michelle Colesanti
events. Visit www.winthropbarntheatre.com to The perfect find out more about wedding day! holding your big What does that event at The mean? To different Winthrop Barn, people it means which is located at different things, but 11349 the one thing that is certain is that The Barn at Winthrop offers the perfect indoor Bloomingdale Ave. and outdoor venues for your wedding. in Riverview. Call holding your wed684-2276. ding at The Barn at All In One Catering & Winthrop Special Events Events Hall, you will All in One Catering & have the perfect venue Events offers you full servwhether you are looking ice custom wedding packfor indoor or outdoor ages to choose from. Specialists will help space. make this day as stress free as possible There is an indoor Reception Hall, Ceremony Garden and Tuscan Courtyard by helping you personalize the wedding. They will help with floral designs and proso there are plenty of choices for the setvide servers, bartenders and event/party ting of your ceremony. Experienced staff rentals. is on-hand to help you every step of the Off-site catering is available as well way. as event rentals, linens, flowers and full A Bridal Suite is available to give you coordination of the details. and your bridal party to get ready for the The staff at All in One Catering & main event. Events looks forward to providing you the Of course no wedding is complete wedding of your dreams with detailed without all of the details that make it a one-of-a-kind special day. House furniture coordination, chic décor design, an exciting menu and professional service which is included as well as lighting décor for will create a lasting impression. both indoor and outdoor spaces and colAll in One Catering and Events is umn draping. located at 330 Pauls Dr. in Brandon. For It can hold from 200-350 people more information, call 919-9001 or visit depending on the set-up, and pricing www.allinonecateringandevents.com. varies for weekdays and weekend
The Barn At Winthrop Special Events Hall
Calling All Brides To The Brandon Bridal Expo And Fashion Show Staff Report
Calling all bridesto-be to come out to the Brandon Bridal Expo and Fashion Show put on by ToMa Enterprise. It will take place on Sunday, June 23 from 12 Noon to 4 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, located at 1039 Highland Manor Dr. in Brandon. Come face to face with wedding industry related vendors all under one roof in a single day to learn about the latest bridal styles and wedding trends. This intimate venue will allow you to meet with wedding vendors one on one to discuss products and services to help customize your wedding day to make it special and unique. For a detailed listing of vendors, please visit ToMaEvents.com. Wedding expos provide great information and ideas on many aspects leading up to the wedding day. Along with all of the vendors that partake in these events, there are usually demonstrations, samples and modeling shows that take place of the course of the wedding expo. There will be many fabulous gifts and prizes provided by the participating vendors. With one lucky winner walking away with the grand prize - a honeymoon - a trip for two, at the all-inclusive three-night Club Med Sandpiper Bay Resort Florida (provided by Visas and
Vistas Travel). Tickets are free, however the first 100 brides to pre-register at ToMaEvents.com will receive a free gift bag (filled with goodies). There will also be a fashion show presenting the latest fashions. You will see classic and contemporary wedding gowns, tuxedos, suites, bridesmaid, mother-of-the-bride dresses and alternative fashions (gowns provided by Flora’s Bridal). There will be many free door prizes such as, two-night stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Brandon/East Tampa, an eight-inch custom cake from Moreno Bakery, gift cards, floral arrangement, and more. ToMa Enterprises wants to inspire others to give. It will be raising awareness, funds and much needed supplies for E.C.H.O. to provide residents of southeastern Hillsborough County with emergency food, clothing and access to life-stabilizing programs and resources. While visiting the Expo, please consider donating a non-perishable item (peanut butter, canned meats, canned vegetables, fruit, diapers, hygiene products). EIf you would like information on becoming a vendor or on the Expo or how to help ECHO, please visit www.ToMaEvents.com.
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Choose A Wedding Photographer To Match Your Style Unlike your other vendors (music, flower arrangements, cake), you won’t really know what until after the fact what you are getting. Careful research and selectiveness regarding professional skills, artistic style and personal demeanor are extra important when choosing your photographer.
Step 1: Settle On A Style
Before you begin researching photographers, decide what type of photography style you prefer. That will help determine the kind of photographer you will want to shoot your wedding.
tion of photos might look like after the wedding.
Staff Report
Step 5: Review Albums With A Critical Eye
When reviewing a photographer's album, look for the key moments you want captured.
need and where your photographer is based, and packages range from $2,500 all the way up to $15,000-plus on the higher end of the spectrum. When interviewing candidates,
Step 2: Do Your Homework
Start your search by reading reviews from recent newlyweds and browsing local listings. Review potential photographers' websites and blogs to check out photos of other weddings they have shot. How do they capture the moments important to you?
Step 4: See A Few Full Wedding Albums
Ask to see two or three full galleries from real weddings they've shot (not someone else at their company) to get a better idea of what your complete collec-
Most contracts stipulate that the photographer owns the rights to all photos taken at the wedding, even the ones of you. In other words, the photographer can use them promotionally (on their website or blog, submit them for publication and even place them in ads). That also means you can't just post the digital proofs they send you—most photographers have a policy that you can only share watermarked images or images with their credit on them. Also, unless you negotiate otherwise, if you want to print the images yourselves or order an album from another source, you'll have to buy the rights to the images.
Step 9: Get The Postproduction Details
Step 3: Set Up Interviews
Meet potential photographers in person. If you like what you see on their site, and fees are in your ballpark range, call to see if they're available for your wedding date. If so, go ahead and send an introductory email with a bit about you and your soon-to-be spouse, your event and the visions.
Step 8: Ask About Your Rights
Step 6: Make Sure Your Personalities Mesh
Don't underestimate the importance of liking and bonding with your photographer. Is the photographer excited by your vision when you describe it?
Step 7: Compare Packages
You won't be able to nail down an exact dollar amount until you're sure of what you want, how many albums you
ask for a general range based on the photographer's standard ‘shooting fee’ and package, plus their standard rates for the type of album you think you'll want and the amount of coverage you're hoping to book them for (day of, full weekend).
It usually takes at least a month to get all those photo proofs back from your photographer. Your photographer is shooting enormous raw files far bigger than your typical JPG, which gives your photographer greater ability to correct the photo, but it also takes a longer time to upload, process and edit those files.
Step 10: Prep Together For The DayOf
Remember that your photographer is the pro, so while it is helpful don’t spend too much time putting together a detailed shot list for them. Instead, give them an idea of what images you’d like captured (like a shot with each of your bridesmaids in addition to wedding party portraits) and let them do their thing.
Summer Wedding Planning Made Easy With Fun Additions Staff Report
There are many advantages to getting married in the summer. For starters, it is easier for people to take off work and the weather is more consistent. Make your wedding stand out by incorporating some of the following details. 1. A selfserve ice cream bar or snow cone cart. Both whimsical and refreshing, a snow cone cart or ice cream bar puts a new twist on wedding desserts. They also keep guests cool as a cucumber on a sultry summer day. Check with party rental companies to see what options they can offer. 2. Signature cocktails. You can have a signature cocktail no matter the season of your wedding. But a crisp cocktail in a bright color screams summer — not to mention many fruits and veggies are in season and at their height of flavor. Work with a local bartender to find out what’s in season to craft the best drink to reflect your tastes 3. Lawn games. The summer wed-
ding season brings many an outdoor affair. Let guests make their own fun by offering a selection of lawn games croquet and lawn dice, which work well with players sporting formal wear. 4. Sparklers. When things get late and it’s time to take your leave, do it in style by handing out sparklers for guests to light and line your path. 5. Bright bouquets. Summer was made for bold colors — and Mother Nature agrees! 6. Fun photo booth. Use a fun photo booth to give guests a special keepsake photo and something to do in between activities. Choose flowers in vivid colors like red, pink or yellow. Pick large blooms like peonies, hydrangeas or sunflowers. No matter what you decide to incorporate into your summer wedding, remember to always get quotes from as many local vendors as possible. Doing so will save money and uncover unique ideas that may help your special day stand out from the summer wedding crowd.
Honeymoon Packing 101 Staff Report
Your wedding will be beautiful and something you will remember for you entire life, but there is a small part of you that will be relieved to have the stress of planning such a major event behind you and looking forward to some wellearned relaxation. No matter if you’ve planned a relaxing week on the beach, adventure in the mountains or a quick city getaway, you want to make sure you bring everything you could possibly need. Make a List Making a list is the first step to ensuring nothing important gets left behind. The key is not to make your list in one sitting or just a few days before departure. You need time to come back to it. Choose things that mix and match well, and that perhaps you can get more than one use out of if you will be gone for several days. Consider Going Carry-On Only Not having to check any luggage makes traveling so much easier and saves you precious time! Think about it. Would you rather be pacing around a luggage carousel or be that much closer to sipping mai tais at the beachside bar? Try packing versatile pieces for your trip, or visit a local luggage store for things like pack-flat toiletry kits and packing
cubes that can save serious room in your suitcase. Checking A Bag No matter how inconvenient, there are some bags you just need to check. Maybe your honeymoon is an extended trip or you will be hitting several destinations in varying climates. Whatever the reason, checking at least one bag might be your best bet. If this is the situation, planning your carry-on actually becomes more important in case your checked bag doesn’t arrive with you. Consider adding travel insurance to make sure you’re covered. Always pack at least one spare outfit, comfortable flats, a swimsuit and another spare outfit appropriate for dinner. This should get you through the first few days without your checked luggage before it is either found and delivered to you, or give you enough time to purchase replacements of essential items at your destination.
Page 36
Valrico Edition
Volume 16, Issue 6
Your Moments. Your Memories. Our Passion.
AN ALLINCLUSIVE WEDDING VENUE FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY!
The Carriage House Stable offers a variety of ceremony sites all located near the breathtaking, climate controlled reception stable, perfect for parties up to 150 guests. Each unique setting offers picturesque surroundings, enhanced by imaginative touches in custom details to re!lect your personal taste.
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WWW.CROSSCREEKRANCHFL.COM Contact us to schedule your personal tour: 12950 East Wheeler Rd, Dover, FL 33527 • 813-651-0934 • info@crosscreekranch!l.com
June 2019
Page 37
Valrico Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Not Your Normal Entertainment To Present Cabaret Not Your Normal shows with organiEntertainment zations such as (NYNE), your local Plant City source for live enterEntertainment. tainment, will present Golombek said, Cabaret in June. All "We believe that shows will be held the themes in at The Portico Cabaret are as located at 1001 N. true today as they Florida Ave. in were when the Tampa. Producers The NYNE cast and crew of show was first Cabaret are rehearsing. NYNE will present written. Cabaret suggest that due to six shows in June at The Portico in Tampa. seeks to show adult themes in Cabaret, the audience should be limited how a society can turn on its own people to 13 years and older. just as Germany turned on the Jewish Cabaret is set in a Berlin nightclub people and others." toward the end of the 1920's. A garish The cast of Cabaret is comprised of Master of Ceremonies welcomes the 26 in the cast as well as crew. Members audience and assures them that they will of the cast come from Brandon, Plant City forget all their troubles at the Cabaret. and Tampa. The show will be presented Cabaret, with its bawdy songs and comon Friday, June 14 and 21 from 8 to 10 mentary, explores the dark, heady and p.m. and on Saturday, June 15 and 22 tumultuous lives of the city's natives and from 2 to 4 p.m. and then again from 8 to expatriates as Germany slowly yields to 10 p.m. the emerging Third Reich. Tickets to Cabaret are available by Cabaret was first performed in 1966 visiting www.nyneshow.com. Standard and is based on the 1951 play, I Am A advance tickets are $20 and at the door, Camera by John Van Druten which was they are $25. VIP tables on the floor are adapted from the short novel, Goodbye to $40 per person and on the stage, they Berlin by Christopher Isherwood. are $50 per person. VIP tickets come with The NYNE production of Cabaret is non-alcoholic drinks and snacks as well directed by April Golombek. While as interaction with the cast during the Golombek is new to NYNE, she is a vetshow. eran director having directed numerous For info, visit www.nyneshows.com.
EHAG Presents Annual Members Show At Bruton Memorial Library the Plant City High School Community Center in Plant City. James Villa is a professional artist who is from Plant City. Villa's influences range from Baroque to Impressionists to Cubists to surrealists and Abstract Expressionists. Christine Wynne is The Annual East Hillsborough Art Guild Members’ Show is a semi-retired travel now on display at the Bruton Memorial Library in Plant City. You can see the artwork of the very talented members of the writer. She took up guild. You will be delighted in the wide range of mediums painting after retirement and subject matters displayed in the show. and found enjoyment in The June art exhibit at the Bruton creating something new. Memorial Library in downtown Plant City Abby Vance is 15-year-old Plant City features artwork from the wonderfully cre- native. She is self-taught and works in ative artists who are members of the East various mediums. Her favorite subject Hillsborough Art Guild (EHAG). The matter is cats. Vance has entered her exhibit can be viewed now through the work in the Florida Strawberry Festival end of June during the library's normal Fine Art Show. operating hours. This is Karen Hall's first exhibit. She The art exhibit display features 26 took up painting about three years ago. pieces of art created by 10 member Her main medium is acrylics, but she also artists of EHAG. The members include does work in watercolor. Landall Gordon, Loretta Burns, Nancy Being a part of the Annual Members' Driscoll, James Villa, Ruth Bolles, Show at the Bruton Memorial Library is Christine Wynne, Danny Lewis, Abby just one of the many perks of being a Vance, Karen Hall and Patci Sawyer. member of the East Hillsborough Art The art ranges in medium and subGuild. In addition, the members offer art ject matter. You will find stained glass, classes at the Classroom Gallery located abstracts, landscapes and animals feain the 1914 Plant City High School tured in the exhibit. Community Center located at 605 N. You can, for instance, find a lovely Collins St. in historic Plant City. Finally, stained glass piece by Ruth Bolles who you can thank members for the wonderful has only recently moved to Plant City in fine art show that is held annually at the the last few years. Bolles is an awardFlorida Strawberry Festival. winning artist who shares her art with the For more information on EHAG, community through classes she teaches please visit www.ehagfinearts.org, or call at the Classroom Art Gallery located at 704-5208 or email EHAG.pc@gmail.com.
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Page 38
Volume 16, Issue 6
Valrico Edition
Sports 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Connection
By Nick Nahas With Photos Courtesy Of Kathi Hayes
Bloomingdale Vs. Newsome Faculty Basketball Game Raises Funds For Charity
The Bloomingdale student section, otherwise known as the Red Sea, came out ready to take on its rival, Newsome High School for a friendly, competitive game.
Separated by less than 5 miles, Bloomingdale and Newsome high schools have developed one of the premier rivalries in all of Hillsborough County. The rivalry was put to good use as Bloomingdale hosted the second annual Bloomingdale versus Newsome faculty basketball game for charity. The stands were packed full of students and fans for an exhibition game that featured teachers and administrators from both schools competing against one another for charity. The Bloomingdale High School Student Government Association hosted the event and was able to raise about $750 for the Boys and Girls Club of Clair-Mel. “The Newsome rivalry definitely brings more attention to the game, which we needed to make it more successful,” said Bloomingdale girls basketball Head Coach Joel Bower. The Bloomingdale faculty won the game 54-41, anchored by a 258 4th quarter run, led by Bower and Bloomingdale boys basketball Head Coach Sean Vanzant, who played college and pro basketball. The
Both teams come together at half court to take a picture at halftime. The Bloomingdale SGA raised $745 for the Boys and Girls Club of Clair-Mel.
Joel Bower shoots a jump shot in the corner.
Bulls trailed by four going into the 4th quarter before Vanzant and Bower hit multiple 3-pointers to put their team ahead for good. “Being a part of this game made me even more proud to be a Bloomingdale Bull,” said Bower. “Faculty and students from both schools showing support for the Clair- Mel/Palm River Boys and Girls Club was the driving force behind the success of the game.” “It means a lot that we can give back to the community, and we are grateful to the Bloomingdale SGA for finding a great cause,” said
Newsome social studies teacher David Kaufman. Kaufman thought the success of the event was not due to the rivalry, but to something completely differ-
The Newsome student section came out strong to cheer their teachers on.
ent. “I don't know if it was the rivalry that made students come out,” he said. “I think they came out to see if one of their teachers would pass out from exhaustion.” The Bloomingdale faculty will have bragging rights until next year’s game, which will most likely be held at Newsome. Great memories will also be taken away from this contest. “Aside from all of the threes that coach Vanzant and I made in the fourth quarter, I’ll remember talking to our SGA kids after the game and just being proud to be a part of the event,” said Bower. Bloomingdale High School is located at 1700 E. Bloomindale Ave. Valrico, FL 33596. Visit www.bloomingdale.mysdhc.org for details.
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June 2019
Page 39
Valrico Edition
Sports 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Connection
By Nick Nahas and Photos courtesy of Gayle Borgen
Dynamic Duo; Caba And Saladino Team Up At The High School And College Levels Bloomingdale seniors Myles Caba and Nico Saladino have shared a special bond both as teammates and friends since they were 11 years old. They first played against each other at the South Brandon Little League and later played together for the Hornets’ AAU team. Caba also played for the South Brandon Little League team with Saladino’s younger brother, Noah Saladino, that was coached by Tony Saladino, lll The team fell one game short of making it to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA. They did not think that they would be teammates again, as they both went their own separate ways for high school. Caba went to Bloomingdale and Nico went to Brandon, where his cousin Jordan Feist started at shortCaba celebrates with his teammates after throwing a complete game shutout vs stop from 2011-2014. Riverview in the district semifinal. Saladino had great individual success as a freshman and sophomore at Brandon, where he started immediately at shortstop. The team made it to the regional finals in his freshman campaign, but came up a little bit short against powerhouse Venice. As fate would have it, Caba and Saladino’s paths would once again converge when Saladino decided to transfer to Bloomingdale in the 2017 off-season. “I knew he played a big role in pitching, and I was excited to play with him (Caba) again,” said Saladino. In the 2017-2018 season, both Caba and Saladino played crucial roles on a Bulls team that won its first district championship since 2007. Caba began the Saladino fields a ball from shortstop. Caba throws a fastball. season as the Bulls’ number two starter, a first in his high school at the top of a great lineup. not disappoint, throwing a career. He rapidly became the team’s He then stepped up his role complete game shutout. ace as the season went on, cranking when teammate Jessie That season Saladino went out 56.1 innings and throwing in all the Hunter went down with an on to throw 25.2 innings big games against tough opponents. injury. Saladino took the ball with a minuscule 0.27 ERA He had a 2.24 ERA with 67 strikeouts in his first ever start on the and 22 strikeouts. He hit on the season. mound for Bloomingdale against his .303 with 20 hits and 13 runs batted in Saladino started at shortstop for former Brandon Eagles squad. He did as well. “We can put him on the the Bulls to begin the season, batting
mound, we can put him at short, either slot, he gives us a chance to win a ball game,” said Caba. When the season ended, Caba was named the Most Valuable Pitcher by his teammates and Saladino was named Team MVP. Later that off-season, the pair found out that they would once again be teammates at the next level when they signed on to play at South Florida State College. “I was like, what are the odds of that happening,” said Caba. “It’s cool to be teammates with him this long. It’s been awesome, I can’t complain.” In the 2019 season, Caba had once again taken over the reigns as the team’s ace, leading the team in innings pitched with 56.1. He has a 6-2 record, with a 1.62 ERA and 64 strikeouts. Saladino started the season injured due to a broken collarbone in the offseason. He has regained his form, throwing 24.1 innings with a 1.44 ERA and 17 strikeouts. “He’s definitely a captain, he keeps our team together and into the games even when he’s not pitching,” said Saladino. “Every time he pitches, you know what you’re going to get out of him. I like how he just attacks and never keeps us defenders bored out there. It always fun to play behind him.” “These past two years at Bloomingdale are my best memories of playing with him (Caba), seeing him pitch and dominate and winning at districts with him and all that,” said Saladino. “It’s been fun.” The Bulls lost in the regional quarterfinals to Plant 2-1, ending Caba and Saladino’s senior campaign. They would like the chemistry to continue at the next level. “Hopefully, he and I both have opportunities to play on the same field when I’m on the mound and he’s at shortstop,” said Caba. “Hopefully, we get to have the chance because I feel like he’s somebody that’s pretty valuable to me when I’m on the mound.”
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Page 40
Volume 16, Issue 6
Valrico Edition
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