Osprey Observer Valrico January 2020

Two Sections, 32 Pages of Community News

Valrico

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

January 2020 1 8

Y E A R S

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Volume 17, Issue 1 Ph: 657-2418

P U B L I S H I N G

Sailing Dreams Come True As Pair Complete 176-Day, 6,000 Mile Great Loop Journey

By Karin Davis-Thompson

Postal Customer

ECRWSS EDDM

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

Bloomingdale High Becomes Collection Site For OASIS, Clothing For Students

By Mia Cafaro

Bloomingdale Furthering both quality of life High School recentand education for young people is ly partnered with a cause described as ‘invaluable’ OASIS to become a by a social worker who was able to drop site for gently help students through this program. used or new clothOASIS currently connects with 43 ing, which are given social workers through an back to low-income order/delivery system and will soon or at-risk students in expand to 220 social workers, the community. allowing its services to change OASIS, or Outreach innumerable lives for the better.

Assisting Students For more information and an in Schools, is a extended list of nonprofit organizaitems that can be tion that provides donated, visit Mary Wetterling basic necessities to volunteering to sort oasisdonations for students in need in network.org.

OASIS. Hillsborough Bloomingdale County. It was established in 2001, and students and staff has grown to service over 11,000 stucan reach out to dents per year.

Flossie Parsley There are currently four clothing for information closet locations across Tampa and about how to Seffner. Social workers can visit these donate. OASIS sites to pick up items for students. This Associate Donation bins can be usually includes two school outfits, Director Dawn found at the New Tampa YMCA and the Schulman can be socks, underwear, tennis shoes, a jackSouth Tampa YMCA. contacted about et, hygiene items and school supplies.

Providing this for students can make it volunteer opportunities at dawn.schulinfinitely easier for parents who are strugman@oasis-network.org. gling financially to send their children to school.

Since OASIS is a nonprofit, it surIn This vives thanks to help from donors and volIssue unteers. There are two public drop-off sites for donations, one at the New CHALKLINES...................... ..............PG 10 Tampa YMCA and the other at the South Tampa YMCA. Bloomingdale High School DR. EARL LENNARD ........................PG 10 is a new drop site where students and staff can make contributions. Monetary FOLDS OF HONOR ..........................PG 12 donations are also welcome and can be ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 14 made on the OASIS website.

OASIS is run largely on the efforts of ROAD IMPROVEMENTS ..................PG 18 volunteers; the organization only has two EYE ON BUSINESS....................PGS 21‐22 paid employees, and it is able to manage everything with assistance from the comYEAR IN REVIEW......................PGS 23‐28 munity. Help is needed to pick up and SPORTS CONNECTION .............PGS 30‐31 sort donations, launder clothes and to organize clothing drives. High school stuREAD MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE dents will be able to receive Bright www.ospreyobserver.com Futures hours for volunteering.

O w N ne ew rs hi p

PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397

Pellett wouldn’t be denied however.

After suffering two heart attacks, the 59-year-old was determined to make every moment count and find a way to make the trip and fulfill her dream.

Then, she Susan Pellett and Thom Frederick teamed up to complete the heard about anoth6,000 mile journey known as the Great Loop, which is made up of natural and man-made waterways that include the Atlantic and er cruiser who was Gulf Intracoastal Waterways. thinking about taking the journey.

Susan Pellett said she gets emotionThom Frederick’s wife had passed away al just thinking about it. After years of thinking it was only a dream, she recently and he needed an outlet for his grief but he didn’t want to go alone. sailed the 6,000 mile journey known as She reached out to him and he the Great Loop, something very few get agreed to allow her to be his co-captain. the chance to do. The Great Loop is made up of natural and man-made water- After making sure they made all of the necessary arrangements to be away from ways that include the Atlantic and Gulf home for several months, the pair set sail Intracoastal Waterways. If you travel the from Louisiana on her 40 ft. Silverton entire path you end up making a giant power boat, Allons-y on March 6. loop, eventually ending up where you “It took 176 days,” Pellett said. “We started. went straight through.” Pellett, who was After her achievement, the America’s born and raised in Pennsylvania before Great Loop Cruisers’ Association moving to the Valrico area, said she has (AGLCA) gave Pellett, known as Suzy Q in the sailing world, her BaccaLOOPerate always loved being on the water and enjoyed the diversity of the trip. degree, given in recognition to those who “You see something different around complete the unique adventure. The every corner - all kinds of trees, wildlife, AGLCA is an organization with members who are interested in exploring and possi- colors of water, and fellow cruisers along the way,” she said. “There were about bly completing the Great Loop. three to four hundred boats making the But getting the honor wasn’t easy for journey this year. We would have ‘dockPellett, whose first attempt ended almost tails’ together and tell our story of where before it began when a barge crushed her boat on a marina just 1,500 miles into we started our journey.”

When the trip was over, Pellett said the trip.

“I was hysterical,” Pellett said. “It fold- she wasn’t ready for it all to end. “It’s a big let down when it’s over,” she said. ed my boat in half and I had to come “But I am glad I did it.” home.”

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3345 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. • Valrico • Located in the Sprouts Plaza • 813-643-7777 Since 1904, the Florida State Fair has been a staple in Tampa Bay and is returning to the Tampa Fairgrounds from Thursday, February 6 to Monday, February 17 for 12 fun-filled days. The one-day admission price for adults is $9 and for children ages 6-11 is $5. Children under 5 are free. Other prices may vary and there is always special pricing on armbands for the Midway rides. For a complete list of pricing and more information on the events, concerts, live shows and other offerings, visit www.floridastatefair.com. Read article on page 3.

Exceptional Entertainment for the whole family!

Page 2

Volume 17, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

From The Law Office of

Griffin & Associates, P.A.

Rachel L. Griffin

Eileen H. Griffin

Ryan W. Griffin

FAMILY LAW PROBATE & ESTATE PLANNING

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January 2020

Page 3

Valrico Edition

Chicken Salad Chick – The Inside Scoop On The Newest Addition To Bloomingdale Sq.

Visit The Florida State Fair For Food, Fun And New Deep Fried Dash 5K Run

due to unexpected construction delays, they waited over three years to open.

The Bloomingdale store was to be the couple’s second in the Tampa area with the first having opened in 2015 near USF at 2790 E. Fowler Ave., so while this project was on hold, they moved forward and opened up two other Tampa locations.

The menu focuses around the 12 General Manager Jennifer Warren, owners Tammy and Brad Cochran and District flavors of chicken salad made fresh by Manager Elena Diacanu recently opened hand every morning using only premiChicken Salad Chick. um chicken tenderloins. Beyond chickChicken Salad Chick, the nation’s en salad, the menu offers several only Southern-inspired, fast casual, other healthy options in fresh salads chicken salad restaurant along with homemade mac 'n cheese, concept opened its fourth Tampa area pimento cheese, gourmet soups and location at 965 E. Bloomingdale Ave. seasonal desserts. on December 10 The Cochrans, as well as Chicken in Bloomingdale Square at the southSalad Chick corporation as a whole, west corner of Bloomingdale Ave. and strongly believe in supporting local Bell Shoals Rd. charitable events throughout the year, The owners, Brad and Tammy with all the money raised at its most Cochran, as well as General Manager recent friends and family event donatJennifer Warren and District Manager ed to Metropolitan Ministries along Elena Diacanu, welcomed guests at its with supporting the National Pediatric friends and family event held on the Cancer Foundation. This year, Feeding weekend prior to the grand opening.

Tampa Bay will be supported with the The turnout was fantastic at the proceeds from the giving card sales opening with well over 100 customers program that Chicken Salad Chick lining the store by 9 a.m. The first 100 offers. customers received a free chicken Chicken Salad Chick is open salad each month for a year with cusMonday-Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to tomer number one receiving a free 8:30 p.m. Catering is also offered. Visit chicken salad every week. www.chickensaladchick.com, and folThe Cochrans initially signed the low on social media for the latest letter of intent in July 2016 with the trends. store scheduled to open mid-2017, but

Since 1904, the FFA students comFlorida State Fair mit hundreds of has been a staple in hours to their agriculTampa Bay and is ture projects.” returning to the Among the long Tampa Fairgrounds list of things to see from Thursday, and do includes February 6 to Cracker Country Monday where visitors step February 17 for back in time to 19th The Florida State Fair is century Florida at 12 fun-filled coming to the fairgrounds days. Who Tampa’s only living for 12 days beginning doesn’t love Thursday, February 6 and history museum, ending on Monday, some deep-fried open all 12 days of February 17.

Oreos, exciting the fair. There are rides to the Midway, carnival games and also a variety of fun competitions for the live entertainment? There is something best quilt, pie or plant. Onlookers can for everyone of all ages at this year’s fair. enjoy a good old-fashioned demolition Known for amazing food and thrilling derby as they cheer on their favorite rides, there are also a few new events destructive drivers as they shake, rattle this year. If you love to run, the first annu- and roll through a series of obstacles to al Deep Fried Dash is a race through the be the last car standing. And of course no fair on Saturday, February 15. For a visit to the fair is complete without a few chance to be the first ever Deep Fried rides on The Wipeout, Street Fighter and Dash 5K and Fun Run champion, register Midway Sky Eye ferris wheel. now for a fair-tastic deal.

Opening day Thursday, February 6, Also new is the Showcase is also Hero’s Day, where first responCommunity Stage where you can see the ders, including law enforcement, EMT, best of the best local talent in this comcorrections officers and active or retired munity-driven show. military, along with guests, get free admisFrequent fair-goer and Ruskin resision to the fair. dent Amber Council is always excited The one-day admission price for about the Florida State fair. Her daughter, adults is $9 and for children ages 6-11 is Becky, is involved with Future Farmers of $5. Children under 5 are free. Other America (FFA) in school and is showing prices may vary and there is always speat the fair this year. cial pricing on armbands for the Midway “We always enjoy the rides and the rides. For a complete list of pricing and food,” said Council. “But, it’s also provides more information on the events, concerts, great agricultural opportunities. We will be live shows and other offerings, visit at the fair again this year because the www.floridastatefair.com.

By Brian Bokor

By Kelly Wise Valdes

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Page 4

Valrico Edition

Famous Cuban Donkey Unites Families Through Storytelling

By Michelle Colesanti

Perico was a donkey who lived in Santa Clara, Cuba, between 1914 and 1947. He walked freely through his hometown neighborhoods feeling safe. In the 1940s, he became famous at home and abroad when his antics were told and retold. He was featured in The New York Times, Life, and The Evening Post.

And in Cuba, La Bohemia, El Diario de la Marina, El Mundo, El País, El Crisol, Prensa Libre, and Habana Post.

In Cuba, Perico was not forgotten by one man, Arnaldo Artiles Quintana, who collected stories about Perico, wrote a book, and sculpted a statue of the folkloric icon in Santa Clara.

For the first time in seven decades, the story of Perico is published and told outside of Cuba through a newly published book, Perico-The Fabulous Burro, which is a dual language book and now available through Amazon.

Sixty years after leaving Cuba, local Valrico resident and author Susana Mueller (pen name JiménezMueller) got to visit her family in Santa Clara. During that visit, Quintana introduced her to Perico’s life story.

The book instills cultural values and unites families across stretches

Expiration: 1.31.2020

of time and space – from the shores of Cuba to the beaches of exile countries. It was important to tell his story as the memory of Perico began to disappear.

Stories similar to Perico’s vanished from the collective memories of Cubans in America and throughout the world as families dealt with the imminent needs of coping in exile.

Mueller fell in love with Perico and felt a social responsibility to adopt the project and bring his life-story to readers outside of Cuba.

“If we are lucky, once in a lifetime, we have the opportunity to add to the story of a People through storytelling,” Mueller said.

Mueller’s trip to Cuba in May of 2019 provided her with deep cultural connections, not just with family but also with her hometown’s rich history.

“I imagined Perico walking on Santa Clara’s cobblestones and wondered if he ever knocked on my parent’s door,” she said.

“For me, bringing Perico’s story to America is a project of love.”

You can find more information at https://soundcloud.com/user205688454/perico-the-fabulous-burro or https://www.facebook.com/susanasbooks or purchase on Amazon.

Volume 17, Issue 1

Brandon Academy Celebrates 50 Years

By Linda Chion Kenney

Brandon Academy in 2018 graduated its first senior class, having launched its high school in 2015 with grade 9. Designated an International Baacalaureate World School in 2017, the academy offers the IB diploma program to juniors and seniors.

Opening with grade 1 in 1970, the academy took In front of a cake celebrating Brandon Academy's 50th root on land purchased by anniversary are staff members, from left, Tonya Fulton, director of first impressions; Nicholas Rodriguez, head the Rotary Club of Brandon of school; and Brian Galzerano, middle school from the University of principal.

Tampa. Ownership eventuThe Brandon Academy community ally transferred to Clif Curry and his is set to celebrate the private, indewife, Terry, who in 2005 sold the school pendent school’s ‘next best 50 years’ (then through grade 8) to Robert after gathering to mark the school’s Randolph and his wife, Tricia. half-century of achievement.

Designated a National Blue At a ribbon-cutting with the Greater Ribbon School in 2010, the academy Brandon Chamber of Commerce, today enrolls about 260 students Jessica Rolewicz said she attended the through grade 12. school as a youngster.

“Our goal is to give them their best “I used to play with the acorns in future yet,” Rodriguez said, noting such the playground,” she said. “I remember offerings as Makers Space, the big classrooms and the lovely proInnovations Lab and Design Makers grams they had back then. It’s amazing and Robotics. how far they’ve come and how much “Our goal is to bring in great kids they’ve grown with the community that and families,” he added. When it we love.” comes to financial aid, “We’ll bend over Head of School Nicholas backwards to try to get them in.”

Rodriguez oversees 20 and seven fullSondra Cliggit retired in 2018 after and part-time educators, respectively, 35 years at Brandon Academy, where and five staff members. Over the past she last served as head of lower five years, classroom buildings have school. The academy is “magical,” she been retrofitted, the gymnasium has said. “People who come here say it’s been enhanced and an intermediate just different than any other place and classroom building has been construct- it truly is.” Brandon Academy is at 801 ed.

Limona Rd. Visit: www.brandon-acadeWith seven of ten acres developed, my.com or call 689-1952.

Expiration: 1.31.2020

Expiration: 1.31.2020

January 2020

Valrico Edition

Page 5

Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pet Foods

Saturday, March 7; 11 a.m.-12 Noon p.m.

Kim’s Natural Pet Foods, 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.

Grey Matters Toastmasters

First and Third Thursday of month; 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Bloomingdale Library at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico Benefits of club include confidence-building in public speaking, enhancement of leadership skills and unique, lively, stimulating discussions.

Visit https://greymatters.toastmastersclubs.org/.

Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group

Tuesday, January 21, February 18 and March 24; Wednesday, January 15 and February 12; and Thursday, January 9, February 6 and March 12 HCC campus at The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking Social Security benefits; perfect for ages 58-67.

Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave a message after 4:30 p.m.

Riverview Library Master Gardener Library Programs

10509 Riverview Dr., Riverview Garden Treasures Rediscovered; Tuesday, February 4 at 6:30 p.m.

Discover ways to reuse items in the garden usually thrown out or considered useless. Learn inventive ways to make your garden unique, full of fun and beauty and also provide for garden wildlife.

Contact Anne Marie Boehm at amblibrary@gmail.com or call 205-6621 for more information.

Bring Your Dog To Yappy Hour

Sunday, January 19; 1-4 p.m. Sunset Grill at LIttle Harbor, Ruskin The event is free; cash bar; vendors welcome Contact Rick at 210-2695 or Nancy at 597-5296; rmonsipapa@gmail.com Find it on FB ‘SouthShore Dog Club’ RSVP on Meetup.com

Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting

Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m.

Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza, Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President, at 767-1569

Parkinson's Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon

Third Tuesday of the month; 6 p.m.

Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.

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.

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Page 6

Valrico Edition

nament, r u o T f l o G tance s i s s A s n a Veter ore…

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lesanti, ichelle Co M y b d e il Comp erver.com ospreyobs michelle@

Congregation Beth Shalom Holds Lifelong Learning Series

Congregation Beth Shalom is offering a five-part series about aging. All presentations will be held at Congregation Beth Shalom located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. The cost for the entire series is $25 per person for members and $35 per person for nonmembers. Call the temple office at 681-6547 to reserve your ticket.

Part One - Thursday, January 23at 7 p.m. - The Sandwich Generation; Part two Sunday, February 2 at 7 p.m. Making Memories; Part three - Monday evening, February 17 at 7 p.m. Navigating Elder Law; Part four Wednesday, March 4, at 7 p.m. Managing Living Arrangements as We Change and Part five - Sunday, March 22 at 7 p.m. - Remains of the Day End of life .

The Bridges Retirement Community Hosts Veterans Assistance Seminar The Bridges Retirement Community is hosting a Veterans assistance seminar on Tuesday, February 4 to educate wartime Veterans and their survivors about a benefit through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs ‘Improved Pension with Aid and Attendance.’ This benefit can help offset the cost of living in a retirement community for a wartime Veteran or his/her surviving spouse. Veterans of any branch of the armed services who served 90 consecutive days on active duty, including one day during a wartime period, may be eligible to receive up to $1,912 per month for assisted living expenses if they served during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam Era or other more recent conflicts (duration of service required may vary). Surviving spouses may qualify to receive up to $1,230.

Dennis Mont’Ros, Veteran Service

Officer with Hillsborough County’s Department of Consumer & Veterans Services, will provide information and answer questions about this benefit. This free seminar will be held at The Bridges, 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview, from 11 a.m.-12 Noon with lunch provided.

Seating is limited. Please reserve a seat by calling 413-8900.

Nominations Sought for Hillsborough Environmental Champion

Everybody loves the environment but not everyone does something about it. Hillsborough County wants to honor those whose work to protect the environment has made a lasting difference in residents’ quality of life.

Nominations are now being accepted for Hillsborough County’s Theodore Roosevelt Hillsborough Forever Conservation Award. The honor is given annually to an individual or group who exemplifies dedication to preserving the County’s natural resources. The award is named after Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., the 26th president of the United States and noted conservationist who placed more than 200 million acres under public protection.

Nominees must live or work in Hillsborough County and “be someone who shows persistence and dedication to long-term conservation of the County’s natural resources, demonstrates integrity in performance toward conservation goals, and displays attributes of true conservation stewardship,’’ according to the award criteria.

Nominations will go through the Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program General Committee, which will send a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners for approval.

The Board will hold an awards ceremony in April to coincide with National Arbor Day. The deadline for nominations is Saturday, February 29. For more information, call 672-7876 or email Ross Dickerson at dickersonR@HCFLGov.net.

Community Day At St. Stephen Catholic School

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Volume 17, Issue 1

In celebration of Bloomingdale Baseball Golf National Catholic Tournament Registration For School Week, on Friday, February 7 Tournament Monday, January 27, The 2020 Bloomingdale Bulls St. Stephen Catholic Baseball team is holding it’s first School in Riverview Golf Tournament Fundraiser on will open its doors to Friday, February 7 at the friends of the parish Bloomingdale Golfers community. All are welcome Club located at 4113 to visit the classrooms, Great Golfers Pl. in meet the teachers and Valrico. Registration, experience the joy from the lunch and range balls children. Tours will be availbegin at 11:30 a.m. and able from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Golf Tournament shotgun begins at 1 p.m. and refreshments will be Registration is $100 per served. Reservations are golfer and includes lunch, round of golf not required. St. Stephen Catholic and dinner. Registration for a foursome School is located at 10424 St. Stephen is $400 and includes lunch, round of Circle. Call the school office with any golf and dinner for four golfers. questions at 741-9203.

Please consider being a Bloomingdale Baseball sponsor!

Vehicle Registration Can Now Be GRAND SLAM SPONSOR – $2,500 Renewed At Three Publix Locations Receives: Foursome in the 2020 Three Publix locations in Golf Tournament plus Home Run Hillsborough County now host tax colSponsor package. lector’s self-service kiosks.

HOME RUN SPONSOR - $1,000 The new Receives: Full Page Ad in 2020 program, Florida MV Baseball Program, Hole Sponsor in the Express, allows customers to 2020 Golf Tournament, Recognition at get a new registration card all Home Baseball Games, Membership and license plate sticker in a in the Bloomingdale Athletic Booster matter of minutes, as Club and 2 passes for regular season opposed to several days. The games. blue and yellow kiosks will be available TRIPLE SPONSOR- $750 at the grocery chain’s Citrus Park locaReceives: Half-Page Ad in 2020 tion at 7835 Gunn Hwy., Plant City’s Baseball Program, Hole Sponsor in the Walden Woods store at 2202 James L. 2020 Golf Tournament and Recognition Redman Pkwy. and the Lake Brandon at all Home Baseball Games.

Plaza Publix at 11255 Causeway Blvd.

For registration or sponsorship While you can still register your opportunities, please visit www.bshsvehicle online or at a tax collector boosters.com For more information branch, neither of those options come about registration or sponsorships conwith the ability to take home a chicken tact Shelly Wilson at 335-8469 or email tender Pub sub. Visit https://flmvexher at cmshellywilson@gmail.com. presskiosk.com/.

January 2020

Page 7

Valrico Edition

A Kitten Place, Rescue & Foster Program, Where No Cat Is Left Behind

For Aesthetic Appointments Call 813-514-4711 Serving the Tampa Bay Area since 1988

By Sean Crumpacker

Michelle Bass and Alicia Pollock, co-founders of A Kitten Place, were involved in the feline rescue business even before deciding to start their own 501(c)(3).

Bass cited one particular foster scenario as the origin story of Bass and Pollock’s rescue.

“I was taking care of a very critical care kitten with another rescue,” Bass said. “At some point, you take them to the vet, and the rescue incurs expenses. And you know, rescues have to be cognizant of what they’re spending because they have a lot of other kittens in their care.

But with this particular kitten, I knew there was something else that needed to be diagnosed. The president of that organization texted me and said, 'No more vet visits.' And that’s pretty much the straw that broke the camel’s back. I messaged Alicia and I said, 'If we’re going to do this, then we’re going to do it right.'”

Thus, A Kitten Place was born. Bass stated that the rescue looks for every opportunity to save even the most vulnerable and demanding of kittens. “If we ever have a kitten in our care, we’re gonna stay committed to them until the very end,” said Bass.

Now, A Kitten Place works alongside shelters and other rescues to prevent any kittens from being put down. The rescue’s focus is neonatal kittens, which are normally euthanized by shelters due to the large amount of time and money which

must be spent on their care. “They require pretty much aroundthe-clock care,” Bass said. “It’s almost like having a newborn baby.”

Luckily, A Kitten Place has been largely successful in its efforts to save the kittens which are normally left behind. By preventing healthy kittens from being unreasonably put down, rehabilitating kittens with potentially debilitating injuries and rescuing kittens whose conditions were so poor that they would have died in the street, A Kitten Place has lived up to its promise to stay committed to its rescues no matter what. In one particular case, the rescue has even managed to combat an otherwise fatal feline disease.

Bass urges for those who can to step up and participate in local Trap-NeuterVet-Return (TNVR) programs and, more importantly, spay and neuter their pets. “If we can make a dent in the cat overpopulation, it’s going to prevent a lot of suffering,” Bass said.

Rescues like A Kitten Place can always use extra help in the way of foster and transportation volunteers alongside donations. As the nonprofit shelter operates solely on the public's donations, every bit of help is greatly appreciated and goes towards a good cause. For volunteering, donation and adoption information, visit www.akittenplace.org or email akittenplace@gmail.com. Additionally, visit the A Kitten Place Facebook page for updates on all the rescues.

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Page 8

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

Boy Scout Troop 61 Hosts Second Annual Taste Of Scouting BBQ Fundraiser

By Libby Hopkins

Boy Scouts Bloomingdale from Founder Sir Robert 11 a.m-6 p.m. The Baden-Powell once troop will be serving said, “Remember, it a choice of brisket, is not what you turkey or pulled have, but what you pork along with give that brings sides of coleslaw, happiness.” John baked beans, a roll Zelatis would agree and a drink. Prices with Sir Badenrange from $10Powell because $13. The troop will Scout Troop 61 will host its Second scouting has been Boy Annual Taste of Scouting on Saturday, be holding a few an important part of February 1 at Presbyterian Church of activities throughout Bloomingdale from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. his life. “One of my the day as well. fondest experiences growing up was “The troop’s decision to hold the being a Boy Scout,” Zelatis said. “So, Taste of Scouting is two-fold,” Zelatis when my son became of age, I was said. “First, to help raise funds for our excited to introduce him to the Scouting program and the Scouting program.”

Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale.

His son chose Boy Scout Troop Second, to increase awareness in our 61, which is based out of community and throughout that Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale. Scouts BSA is one of the best pro“I asked my 11-year-old why he chose grams that help prepare young peothis troop and he said, ‘I feel comfortple for life. The Scouting program able here.’ I understood him,” Zelatis instills in our youth the core values said. “I felt the same way. There was and principles of the Scout Oath and a sense of pride and certainty in the Scout Law while having fun these young boys and young men.” exploring outdoors, learning new Troop 61 has been around for things and preparing for the future.” more than 30 years. Its success is A portion of the funds raised will due to the support they receive from be utilized to purchase new/upgrade the chartered organization, existing camping equipment and proPresbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, vide Scout families assistance the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council, through scholarships in case of finanthe Brandon community and the tirecial hardships. less leaders that keep the program The troop is currently preselling vibrant and strong. tickets for the event. Visit The troop will host its second www.bstroop61.com. Presbyterian annual Taste of Scouting on Saturday, Church of Bloomingdale is located at February 1 at Presbyterian Church of 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon.

Karla Marie Carolan, J.D. Jacqueline O. Ellett, J.D., LL.M.

January 2020

Valrico Edition

European Flavors Polish Market Brings A Taste Of Europe To Brandon

By Gwen Rollings

Pierogi, paczki, greeting of someone golabki and kielbasa who loves what she might be words that does. “Whenever cusdon’t flow easily over tomers come in and the tongue as you say see all our homemade them, but the foods, they recall memdumplings, pastries, ories from their past of stuffed cabbage rolls parents and grandparand sausages become ents who made or wonderful flavors as bought many of the they flow over the things we carry. It palette as you eat makes them very them. All of these Kasia Pogorzelski, Owner and happy, and that makes foods and more are Chef Extraordinaire prepares me happy. Every Friday fresh foods every day. available at the we want to start servEuropean Flavors ing white fish which is a Polish Market in Polish tradition.”

Brandon. Only open for You don’t have to eight months at 648 be born in Poland or of Oakfield Drive, it has European descent as captured the local niche she makes Floridians market for Polish and happy, too, with her European foods and homemade breads, drinks. pierogi and soups like The success of European Flavors beet, chicken, tomato and cucumber.

Polish Market is due to the expertise Her daughter, Julia, is in high school and dedication of Kasia Pogorzelski, and helps out at the market on owner, bakery chef, and preparer Saturday. “My mother makes someextraordinaire of Polish and European thing fresh and different every day. I soups and entrees. Pogorzelski especially like my mother’s pastries, worked for years in a bakery in and many come here just for them. In Poland before coming to Chicago in fact, everyone is invited on Thursdays 2003 with Mariusz, her husband, and for fresh Polish cakes and pastries daughter, Julia. After moving to like cheesecake, apple cake and ginBrandon in 2018, family and friends gerbread with whipped cream.” encouraged Pogorzelski to open If you want to get there early for European Flavors as other similar freshly baked pastries or Polish markets were an hour away. sausage, the market is open Monday Pogorzelski welcomes each cus– Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and tomer with the smile and friendly Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

BRANDON: 813-654-1110 203 W. Bloomingdale Ave. Brandon, FL 33511

Page 9

Page 10

Valrico Edition

Mrs. Shannon Bornstein in

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Signature Wade

Teacher Of The Month

a teacher?

Why did you decide to become ree and didn’t feel like it was deg ting I graduated with a marke s and love helping and teachthe best fit at the time. I love kid aged me to go back to school ing others. This is what encour program and I dove right in for education. It was a masters ers at the time. even having my first two daught

cher?

What is a goal of yours as a tea w students academically and gro to are r che tea My goals as a they can accomplish things build up their self confidence so w I am cheering them on independently. My students kno n mistakes that with every step forward and eve hopefully that are lessons. A year is short, but le! year will be fun and memorab ?

Do you have any hidden talents is to form a nts tale den I think one of my hid s up many relationship with a child that put walls or barriers. why?

What is your favorite book and h. I nsc Mu ert Love You Forever… Rob and tear n ldre chi n ow my would read it to up every time. spirit?

How do you show your school pere hav and I MC the talent show of the end r che tea formed in a couple l coach. bow th ma also am I year dances.

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rassing moment?

What would be your most embar ted to teach. nge it to what keeps me motiva cha I an I probably have a few…C are one of my h school and say to me, “ You Students that graduate from hig ently had a 7 ber the (fake) Hawaii trip.” I rec favorite teachers!” Or “I remem ood it beterst und , “when you taught me I year old write me a card that said faces and e littl eir Th when I was depressed.” ter and thanks for helping me there and in go to ay ryd up at 5:00 am eve we are these comments keep me getting and r yea de gra t firs y onl This is their do the best that I can for them! going to make it the best! you live by?

Is there a quote or saying that trol over. rry about things you have con wo Live life to the fullest! Only

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Volume 17, Issue 1

Longtime Area Educator Dr. Earl Lennard Leaves Lasting Community Legacy

By Linda Chion Kenney

His daughter, Missy, in 2009 became the charter principal of the elementary school named for Richard “Dick” Stowers, who died in January.

“Earl and Dick are probably the two best historians of this area and I loved hearing their stories,” attorney B. Lee Elam said. “Earl was Earl Lennard with his daughter, a totally selfMissy (l.), charter principal of less person.

Stowers Elementary, Annabel, Any talent he his wife of 55 years and son Jeremy, a technology specialist had, any inforat Bloomingdale High. mation he had, From farm to schoolany way he house, county fair to boardcould help, he room, Earl J. Lennard is would, and he remembered as a “humble, wanted to take homegrown icon” whose no credit for it. teachings, kindness and leadStowers, of ership leave an indelible mark. course, was The namesake of cut from the Lennard High School in “Dr. Lennard was a respected leader same cloth.”

Ruskin died Dec. 23, at age who cared about his community,” said Senator Helen Mulrennan Young, with Earl 77, after a prolonged illness Tom Lee, a Lennard at the 2010 Brandon High that led to his hospitalization School Grand Reunion. Helen said Brandon High since Thanksgiving 2018.

Lennard “was a great friend to the graduate, Mulrennan family and worked on the Lennard entered the agreed. “Over farm with my brother Bud.” Hillsborough County public the past 20 school system as a first-gradyears we’ve lost many of er at Palm River Elementary Brandon’s greatest generaand left as its superintendent tion,” he said. “Together they of schools upon retirement in built this town and it was 2005. Four years later, Gov. honor to have lived and Charlie Christ appointed him served in their time.”

Hillsborough County A lifelong history buff, Supervisor of Elections, to Lennard taught at Ruskin replace Phyllis Busansky, who Elementary and at East Bay died that year. Lennard served and Tampa Bay Technical out the remainder of her term Earl Lennard, former high schools. He received and then ran unopposed for Hillsborough County numerous awards for his own four-year term. superintendent of decades of service and lent schools and supervisor Under his watch as support and leadership to, of elections, passed superintendent, Hillsborough away in the evening of among other groups, the grew from the 11th-largest to December 23, 2019 fol- Greater Brandon and Greater lowing a prolonged illthe eighth-largest school disness. Dr. Lennard was Riverview chambers of comtrict in the nation, necessitatmerce and the Boys & Girls 77 years old. ing the addition and renovaClub in Brandon and Riverview. tion of more than 90 schools. He con“Dr. Lennard was a part of us in the tended with the fears and budget shortfield of education working with youth and falls in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist community, who gave us the idea we attacks and in his wake left a contingency could do this work and make a differfund of more than $300 million. Courtence,” said Jefferson High graduate and ordered desegregation ended during former NBA player Ricky Gallon, now Lennard’s tenure and he led the developmetro community liaison for Boys & Girls ment of the school choice and magnet Clubs of Tampa Bay. “He could see school program. something in you that you couldn’t see “He’s going to be remembered by the yourself, and help you quantify it and put education community, but his roots were it to good use.” in agriculture,” said Tom Umiker, manager East Bay graduate Tanya Doran, the of the Hillsborough County Fair, which Riverview chamber’s executive director, Lennard served as board member and agreed. “He saw something in me I did past president. “Everybody knew him and not see in myself,” she said. “Earl is a I never heard a negative word about him. man who inspired generations.”

He’s a humble, homegrown icon.”

A Celebration of Life was held One of nine siblings, Lennard worked January 11, at Dr. Earl J. Lennard High on his family’s farm and tended to the School in Ruskin. In lieu of flowers, donadetails of its roadside vegetable stand. A tions can be made to Riverview United long-time member of Riverview United Methodist Church, general fund, for a Methodist Church, he taught Gleaners scholarship program in Lennard’s name, Sunday School there up until his illness. soon to be announced.

January 2020

Valrico Edition

The Tampa Youth Travel League Offers Competitive Travel Bowling

By Nick Nahas

ages range from preteen up to 18, and coaches assemble teams based on the abilities of the bowlers.

TYTL advisors Kelly Nelson, Rich Fiore and Lloyd O’Hara feel that they are in an exciting position to challenge their youth by teaching them both the physical and mental aspects of the game, allowing them to think for themselves, Photos courtesy of the TYTL This season’s champions are from Oakfield Lanes in as well as helping prepare them for future endeavors.

Brandon.

The league meets 26 Saturdays throughout the school year.

Each team earns points for the games bowled throughout the season, and the team with the highest total pins receives the championship traveling plaque to display at their bowling center for the year.

This year’s current champions are from Oakfield Lanes in Brandon.

Todd Morrow coaches the teams The Tampa Youth Travel League has a total that are affiliated with Brandon of 12 teams.

Crossroads Bowl in Tampa. His daughter always wanted to play in the league, and when she joined the league six years ago, Morrow joined as a coach.

According to Morrow, the bowlers receive money in their scholarship accounts when they win. At the end of the season anywhere from $1,000-$4,000 is given out in scholarship money. Morrow said that his daughter, who is now in college, The league has about 70 players. earned about $8,000 for college from bowling.

The Tampa Youth Travel League Morrow enjoys helping the youth and (TYTL), established in the early 80s, is a watching them grow. Some of his bowlers competitive travel league for youth will not be eligible for the league next seabowlers. These bowlers are required to try out at one of the eight bowling centers son because they will reach the age limit of 18. “I’ve seen them from 12 to 18 (houses) located around the greater years old, just watching them grow and Tampa area.

The 12-team league was designed to progress as bowlers and as youth into encourage youth bowlers to have healthy adulthood, it just makes your day,” said Morrow. competition against other bowlers in the The league is currently looking for Tampa Bay area. The TYTL currently has more players because of the age restricabout 70 youth members that travel from tion after this season. If you are a youth as far as Sarasota and Zephyrhills to compete with their teams each week. The bowler interested in joining the league, contact your local bowling alley.

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Page 11

Support Bloomingdale High School’s Running Of The Bulls 5K

By Jane Owen

Make plans to participate in this year’s Bloomingdale High School’s Running of the Bulls 5K on Saturday, January 18, 2020.

Make plans now to get a healthy start to 2020 by registering for Bloomingdale’s annual 5K. The Running of the Bulls 5K will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at Bloomingdale High School. The 5K starts and finishes on the track and utilizes the sidewalks, roads and parking lots on campus.

The race, which participants can run or walk, is full of community pride. The Bloomingdale Band Drumline will perform, and student volunteers will cheer for participants. Post-race food includes Chick-fil-A, Panera pastries and bagels and fruit. Participants will receive a shirt and will be entered into a raffle for donated items from sponsors, including race entries into Tampa’s Gasparilla Distance Classic and gift cards to local businesses.

Finishers will receive medals.

2019 Race Winner John Carter from Plant City said he is apt to run the race again, “Because I am competitive, I always want to improve on previous race (times), but with the Running of the Bulls

5K, the pre and post-race activities is the main reason I mark my calendar for the event.”

Made possible by local business sponsorships such as Gold Sponsor Acropolis Greek Taverna, the race is hosted by the Band Boosters and supports the Bloomingdale band and athletic teams.

Registrants can choose an athletic team to support during registration.

Bloomingdale Lacrosse Coach Matthew Borowski knows the 5K makes a difference. “These dollars go directly to fund programs to keep high school kids active and busy in a productive way,” he said.

Borowski not only ran the race himself, he encouraged his lacrosse team to participate. “We participated because of the incentives that the Band Boosters gave our team. We struggle with fundraising dollars and we do not get much support from the district since we are also a pay-for-play varsity sport, so we try to get every dollar that we can.”

“We enjoyed the atmosphere the most. I thought the Band Boosters did a great job at creating an intimate atmosphere utilizing almost every inch of pavement on the school grounds. It was fun to see how they managed to fit 3.1 miles on campus,” Borowski also noted.

To register, visit https://fitniche.com/event/running-of-thebulls-5k/.

Page 12

Valrico Edition

Local Home Builder Sabal Homes Brings Affordability To Luxury In business since 1976, Sabal Homes of Florida has established itself as an awardwinning builder of luxury homes that reflects the interests and lifestyles of the families who live in them.

Operating out of its Brandon Sabal Homes has been building luxury office, the familycustom homes for owned company more than 43 years. has built more than 600 homes that can be found in some of Hillsborough County’s most in-demand communities, as well as on private lots.

But wherever they build, the company’s mission statement—which says in part, “To build semi-custom homes for our customers like those we would build for our own families,”—applies.

Three generations have spent 43 years at Sabal Homes working closely with buyers to provide the distinctive touches that make a house a personal home. That process begins with a design that’s hand-drawn by Bill Lee, president of Sabal Homes and son of the company’s founders, Ann and Jim Lee, before final construction plans are created by computer software. According to Brian Lee, who represents the third generation of the family business, the hands-on aspect helps make buyers’ wishes come true.

“We end up building their dream home,” he said. Personal design features they have included range from indoor golf

By Brad Stager

simulators to disability accommodations like enlarged doorways or suites outfitted for elderly family members.

“We are a semi-custom homebuilder,” added Brian, “but we’ve never built the same home twice.”

Sabal Homes started out building individual homes on private lots and ventured into communities like FishHawk Ranch in 1999.

Currently, Sabal Homes has homes available in the Preserve at FishHawk and Hidden Reserve developments, but according to Bill, the company is returning to the original ‘on your lot’ luxury home business model with a focus on its hometown of Brandon. It is a move expected to improve construction efficiency and, ultimately, affordability for the highly customized product they build.

“We are going to be moving into a market that’s more mainstream for the Brandon community and the buyers that live here,” said Bill.

People interested in homes priced at around $500,000 are buyers the Lees hope to serve. For more information about Sabal Homes of Florida, you can visit sabalhomesfl.com or call 655-7475.

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Volume 17, Issue 1

Honor Their Sacrifice, Educate Their Legacy, Is The Motto Of Folds Of Honor

By Gwen Rollings

women who have died or been disabled while on active duty. These scholarships have been awarded to family members in all 50 states and some U.S. territories. There are more than one million disabled and fallen United States service members affected by war, nearly two million dependents of those disabled and fallen and the cost is more than nine billion to provide educational scholarships to all these dependents, according to Sunset Grill in Ruskin held a charity event for Folds of Honor in November. There was a golf Folds of Honor. scramble, live music, raffles, silent auction and A local business joined the veteran services and support booths. cause to raise funds for these miliLieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, an tary dependents. Sunset Grill in Ruskin F-16 Fighter Pilot in the Air Force held a charity event for Folds of Honor in Reserves, was returning November. There was a home in 2007 from his secgolf scramble, live music, ond tour of duty in Iraq raffles, silent auction and when his mission in life veteran services and supchanged. After the flight port booths. Scott landed, Rooney watched as Campbell, general managa flag-covered casket was er of Sunset Grill, was removed from the plane enthusiastic in his support and directed toward a waitof Folds of Honor. “There were many reaing family. Among the family was the sons we chose to hold the charity event young son of the fallen hero. Rooney here. We wanted to show our support to knew he had to do something to not only the veterans and their families. We owe pay tribute to American service members our veterans respect, and there are a lot and their families but to live as a reminder of veterans in the Ruskin area. We conamong civilians that it is our duty to honor sider ourselves to be ambassadors for the sacrifices of the ones who preserve Folds of Honor and anticipate a West our freedoms. That same year Rooney Florida chapter forming in the future.” founded the Folds of Honor Foundation.

Funds raised were to be distributed as Folds of Honor is a 501(c)(3) nonlocal scholarships. profit organization that has provided nearFor more information on donating or ly 24,500 educational scholarships since scholarship application, visit www.fold2007 to families of U.S. servicemen and sofhonor.org.

January 2020

Valrico Edition

Tampa Bay Community Groups Receive $25,500 For Protecting Sources Of Drinking Water

By Marq Caughell

At its include waterDecember shed stewardboard meeting, ship education Tampa Bay across Pinellas Water awarded County and $25,500 in grow its Youth source water Advisory protection miniCouncil. grants to Keep Pinellas Tampa Bay County Beautiful, Keep Schools’ Pinellas Journeys in Tampa Bay Water awards $25,500 in mini-grants to Journalism proBeautiful, local groups which will help with projects that help Pinellas gram, which protect the region’s drinking water sources.

County includes stuSchools’ Journeys in Journalism program dents from Melrose Elementary, John and the Coffee Pot Bayou Watershed Hopkins Middle, and Lakewood High, will Alliance for projects that help protect the receive $3,500 to work to increase media region’s drinking water sources. literacy and develop a community and “This program allows us to partner civic engagement campaign across multiwith the Tampa Bay community on a media platforms to promote the value of a common goal of protecting our region’s clean and safe water system in our comdrinking water sources,” said Michelle munity.

Stom, chief communications officer for The Coffeepot Bayou Watershed Tampa Bay Water.

Alliance will use $2,000 in grant funding Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful will for quarterly volunteer cleanup events in receive $10,000 to support education iniand around the bayou located in St. tiatives and presentations to school Petersburg. It includes trash and invasive groups and community groups through its plant removal, horticulture services to Environmental Education Program. The support new native plants, monthly water program teaches students the importance sampling, and bird surveys. It will engage of putting waste in its place and how their public and private schools and will also actions can directly affect the Tampa Bay work with Boy Scout Troop 219. watershed.

Since 2008, Tampa Bay Water has Keep Pinellas Beautiful will receive invested approximately $230,000 in its $10,000 to increase its K-12 educational mini-grant program to help communitycurriculum on watershed health, water based efforts that protect the region’s quality, source water health and habitat drinking water resources. For more inforimprovement. It also will expand its mation and to apply for future grant fundAnnual Student Summer Workshops to ing, visit tampabaywater.org/grant.

Page 13

Tampa Theatre Hosts Its 18th Annual WineFest, With Cabbyshack Theme

By Kathy L. Collins

The Tampa Theatre mium silent auction items is teeing up for its representing area retailbiggest fundraiser of the ers, restaurants, services year, hoping to hit a hole and attractions. in one with WineFest There are two levels 2020: Cabbyshack. This of tickets for the Wine fun event will take place Tasting. The Premium on Friday, February 7 Tasting starts at 7 p.m. and Saturday, February and features exclusive 8. The Tampa Theatre is wines for a limited audilocated at 711 N. ence. Tickets are $100 or Franklin St. in downtown $90 for Tampa Theatre Tampa. members.

On Friday night, the The Grand Tasting Theatre’s historic stage ticket holders gain entry will be expanded to seat at 8 p.m. and tickets are more than 275 for the $65 or $55 for members.

The Tampa Theatre’s 18th elegant Wine Pairing.

WineFest 2020: Annual WineFest Fundraiser The multi-course menu, supports the historic landmark’s Cabbyshack is a 21 year programming and preservation. and older event. created and catered by The year’s theme, Mise en Place Chef Guest are encourCabbyshack, is sure to be as fun albeit different from last Marty Blitz, will feature aged to dress as their year’s James Bond theme. delectable small plates favorite character or expertly paired with exquisite wines. come in a Caddyshack-inspired cosTickets for the Wine Pairing are $275 for tume. individuals and $500 for a pair. Table Webber said, “The Theatre’s annual sponsorships for parties of eight or 10 WineFest fundraiser is always a ton of guests are available. Please contact the fun and the perfect way to support Tampa Theatre’s Director of Tampa’s only non-profit movie palace Development, Maggie Webber at magand drink wine at the same time.” gie@tampatheatre.org for more informa- Webber added, “This year’s theme, tion.

Cabbyshack, is sure to bring out a ton of The Wine Pairing begins at 7 p.m. golf and Country Club attire, as well as On Saturday night, the Tampa gophers. Remember, costumes are Theatre will offer a two-tiered Wine always encouraged.”

Tasting from 7 to 10 p.m. Attendees are For more information on WineFest invited to taste dozens of boutique wines 2020: Cabbyshack, or any of the other and sample favorite fare from Tampa’s great events and movies hosted by the top independent restaurants. You will Tampa Theatre, please visit www.tamalso have the opportunity to bid on prepatheatre.org or call 274-8981.

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Page 14

Volume 17, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Artists, Artisans And Vendors Are Invited To Apply To Participate In The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival And Market Organizers of the 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market have issued a call to artists and a call to vendors and sponsors. The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday, March 29, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The festival will be held in the community of Winthrop located in Riverview.

The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market is a juried art show which features artists, artisans and vendors. In addition, there is live Winthrop Arts has issued calls for artists, entertainment throughout the weekartisans, vendors and sponsors for the end, children’s activities and food upcoming 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival trucks. The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts and Market. Artists from all over the area particiFestival and Market is a white tent fes- pate in the juried fine art show, including Best of Show winner Greg Jones of Lakeland. tival, which means that everyone, from artists and artisans to vendors, must apply is Sunday, March 15, 2020. utilize an 8’ x 10’ white tent.

Premium spaces are available to artists, Applications for fine artists and artiartisans and vendors. sans can be obtained through The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Zapplication (www.zapplication.org). This Festival and Market features a wide variis a free service for artists and artisans ety of mediums. This includes painting, who can register and then submit their photography, jewelry making, sculpture, applications along with photographs of glass, ceramics, fabrics/textiles, wood, their booth and art. The cost to apply is digital art and more. There is over $5,000 $25. If accepted into the show, the fee is in awards available. This includes two $125, which is non-refundable. This fee awards for Emerging Artists. This is secures the spot in the show. There are defined as an artist or artisan who is in eight premium spaces available on a firstthe early stages of their art career and come, first-served basis. The cost for the has not yet established a reputation. The premium space is $250. The deadline to

artist or artisan can be of any age and use any medium.

Bryant Martinez, local artist and lead art instructor for Winthrop Arts, said, “The annual arts festival is always a highlight for me. It is a great opportunity for local artists, as well as many from out of the area, to showcase their art at a festival that truly cares about the arts.”

The 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market is judged by three highly qualified judges.

In addition to artists and artisans, the 12th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market features vendors of all kind. Organizers are selective about the vendors that are approved for the festival, but there are always a wide variety of vendors on hand.

They offer all kinds of items, including candles, books, pillows and clothing.

The vendor application can be obtained by visiting www.winthroparts.org, email info@winthroparts.org or call 7585161 and request a copy.

The cost to participate as a vendor is $25 for the application fee and $150 if accepted into the festival. The fees are non-refundable and secure your spot in the festival.

As Winthrop Arts is 501(c)(3) nonprofit, sponsors are needed to help fund

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For more information on sponsorships, please call Kathy at 758-5161 or email kathy@winthroparts.org.

In addition to the annual arts festival, Winthrop Arts offers art classes to children (ages 5 and up), teens (sixth grade and above) and adult (15 years or older). The mediums for children include drawing, painting, ceramics, fabrics and creative storytelling. For adults, there are both a ceramics class and a painting class. For teens, there is a drawing/painting class.

In addition, Winthrop Ars offers the Mobile Art Factory. This is a grant-funded and community supported outreach program that provides free art classes to underserved children living in Hillsborough County. Currently, three instructors travel to Wimauma and provide free arts instruction to children at Hispanic Services Council and Wimauma Elementary School.

The Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory is funded by generous grants from Suncoast Credit Union, Wells Fargo, the Arts Council of Hillsborough County and the Interfaith Social Action Council of Sun City Center.

For more information on Winthrop Arts, please visit www.winthroparts.org.

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January 2020

Page 15

Valrico Edition

, Spring e v i r D r e p Dia eeded, Vendors N More & r i o h C r , Senio Colesanti lle

by Miche com Compiled yobserver. re p s o @ e ll miche

Senior Community Choir Begins In January

A new senior community choir in Riverview is seeking singers with all levels of singing experience.

‘Joyful Voices’ will hold rehearsals every Monday from 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. beginning Monday, January 27.

“Singing has a way of lifting spirits and stimulating memories,” stated the choir’s Music Director Janet Formato.

The idea for the senior community choir came as a result of a number of residents at The Bridges who love to sing.

Executive Director, Donna Steiermann, is excited about the choir. “In addition to a number of our residents, many seniors from the greater Brandon/Riverview community will be joining us. We especially welcome those with mild cognitive impairment,” explains Steiermann.

Sixty minute rehearsals will be held at the Cambridge Clubhouse at The Bridges located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. A spring performance will be held in April. For additional information and to reserve your spot please call 4138900.

Xi Theta Xi Chapter Supports Various Organizations The sisters of Xi Theta Xi chapter of Beta Sigma Phi have supported various organizations recently. Nearly $700 was

tions. Highlighting the baby clothing to families in evening is our Speakeasy need through its ‘Earn show, headliner R&B star While You Learn Program’ David Morris who will peras it builds relationships to form songs from 1920 to share Christ.

2020 including songs from The nonprofit is his newly released album. requesting diaper sizes There will also be newborn to five with the Speakeasy Dancers to greatest need for sizes If you are a vendor and would like to participate in teach the Charleston, so 3,4,5 and clothing from Community Church’s sizes newborn to 2T. The wear your best flapper out- Grace first Spring Market on fit.

Saturday, March 21, email ability to ship items directbosefer11@yahoo.com or Elks Lodge of Brandon ly to its admin office from call 361-1724. is located at 800 Amazon is also available.

Centennial Lodge Dr. in Brandon. Tickets For more information or to donate, visit Lindsay Huggins In Concert At cost $45 for adults (active military and www.empoweredtochoose.net or contact Brandon First Church Of The veterans get 20% off), and $10 for chilJessica Rickenbach at Jessica@choicNazarene dren aged 5-12 years, free for children esclinics.org or 654-0491.

The Brandon First Church of the under 5 years.

Tickets may be purchased Nazarene will present Lindsay Huggins in by phone 681-6547 or www.bethshalomSeeking Vendors For Lithia Spring concert on Sunday, January 26. A Meet & brandon.org/.

Market In March Greet (coffee and snacks provided) will Vendors are being sought by Grace take place at 10:30 a.m. and Music and Local Nonprofit Asks Local Community United Methodist Church in Message by Lindsay Huggins at 10:45 Community To Support Lithia for its first ever Spring Market on a.m. The church is Diaper Drive Saturday, March 21. Much like the located at 114 Choices, formerly known as Holiday Market this event, from 9 a.m.-2 Kingsway Ave. in p.m., is being presented by the Women of the LifeCare Network, is asking Brandon. the community to help Grace. The church is located at with its January 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia.

Beth Shalom Partners Organizers are seeking venDiaper Drive. The With Special nonprofit seeks to prodors to sell variety of products, Operations Warrior tect the sanctity of life such as arts and crafts, jewelry, Foundation For by promoting biblical clothing and more. National comCharity Gala sexuality and educating new panies will be on a first-come first-served Congregation Beth parents. Choices Centers also basis. For example, only one Mary Kay Shalom will partner with offer a variety of support for representative or one Premier Jewelry Special Operations expecting mothers and new par- vendor will be allowed.

Xi Theta Xi members Warrior Foundation for toys and numerous ents. From pregnancy tests to The fee for a 10-ft. x 10-ft. space is its annual fundraiser on donated gift cards to Gift of Hope to $25. Proceeds help support missions in Feb 22, 2020 from 5:30 help make the holidays a assistance after the birth, the the community. The market will be outministry educates as it provides little happier for local - 10 p.m. This year’s families. physical, emotional and spiritual doors, and vendors are asked to provide event is a Roaring 20’s support. their own tent, table and chairs. Food will Charity Gala with special honorary CoThe collection of diapers and wipes be available for purchase. chairman, Congressman Ross Spano.

Visit www.graceholidaymarket.com, helps sustain the Choices Centers in The evening will feature door prizes, Brandon and South Shore for the year. or contact event organizer Susan Ferraro free Gatsby photos, dancing, a delicious Choices Centers provide diapers and at bosefer11@yahoo.com or 361-1724. buffet dinner, and both live and silent aucdonated to Water Mission to provide safe water to hurricane Dorian victims, complete Thanksgiving dinners were provided to two migrant families and members donated toys and numerous gift cards to Gift of Hope to help make the holidays a little happier for local families.

Chapter socials have included going to the movies and enjoying breakfast or dinner at a local restaurant.

For more information, email Diane Wray at dwray52@yahoo.com.

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Page 16

Volume 17, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

A Proposed Split From Mother Hillsborough: Where In The World Is Plant County?

By Charles Nelson

Unquestionably, their petition would never survive Henry Plant’s railroad put a plebiscite by rural, eastern Tampa on the map in Hillsborough residents. To count1884. That railroad also er this likely loss, proponents ran through the small insisted on a vote of ALL town of Cork in eastern Hillsborough County voters. In Hillsborough County. One this election scheme, the ‘proyear later, Cork was incordivisionists’ believed they could porated and appropriately entice Tampa area voters to the renamed Plant City. In ‘yes’ column with promises of 1911, a new Plant better local control. They also County, with Plant City as assumed that they could conits county seat, was province Latin voters to support the posed--again honoring new county effort in a bloc ‘yes’ the man whom one magvote, increasing Latin influence in azine named as ‘the King a much smaller Hillsborough “This 1953 map shows the largest land area “1911 Photo of Plant City Rail of Florida.’

“Portrait of Henry Plant, 1899” proposed as the new County. The 1911 County.

Terminal.” Source: Florida Source: Florida Memory Project County proposal, would show a western Wait a minute! Plant Memory Project This voting plan, though boundary slight to the right.

Note: US 41 County? That’s not on abandoned, didn’t even matter as Florida shown is today’s US 301.” Source: Tampa were delighted when the people, rankany list of the 67 Florida counties! True, Florida House of Tribune, May 1953 Legislators showed little appetite for creing 32nd in but in 1911, there was ample reason to Representatives defeatating new counties. Rising concerns the state in 1911. Pasco, Polk and believe that a few, well-heeled Plant City ed the bill authorizing the new county in among North Florida legislators, based Manatee Counties would serve as the boosters might be successful in creating May 1911. on the notion that new members, from northern, eastern and southern borders. a new Plant County out of the vast In March 1921, a larger group of newly created South Florida counties, The western boundary would be drawn in expanse of rural eastern Hillsborough Plant City-based businessmen proposed would seriously threaten northern a straight, north/south line just east of the County. a new bill to the Legislature. This time Legislators stranglehold on legislative towns of Mango and Limona (near In 1911, progressive-leaning memthey proposed the creation of an even power. As a result, the Legislature did not today’s Providence Road in Brandon). bers of Plant City’s Board of Trade were bigger Plant County with a population that consider a new Plant County.

The plan’s major flaw (which likely encouraged by the successful five-year would exceed 20,000. Proponents There were weaker efforts to revive doomed the idea from the start) was that effort to create a separate Pinellas argued that Plant County would become the Plant County plan in 1925, 1958 and the new county would embolden Plant County. They were very sympathetic to the richest of Florida’s interior counties.

1971. They, too, failed to gain any tracCity’s political and economic dominance national ‘Good Government’ ideas of They believed that the time was right for tion, and the idea of a Plant County faded of the region. Opponents included rural smaller, more efficient governmental separation from ‘Mother Hillsborough.’ into history. farmers and ranchers who feared rising units. As a result, these men petitioned Again, there was stiff rural opposition. taxes necessary to offset the exorbitant the Legislature to create three counties ‘Anti-divisionist’ factions met in Brandon, Charles Nelson Bio costs of building government infrastrucout of the existing Hillsborough County.

Valrico and in Plant City to sign petitions Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in ture in downtown Plant City. One ‘antiHistory from George Mason University From this idea, a new Plant County against the creation of the new county. To and taught as an adjunct instructor at divisionist’ meeting involved 200 would arise in the eastern third of emphasize their objection, they adopted a HCC (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated Woodmen of the World picnic-goers who Hillsborough County along with Pinellas new slogan: “It’s a Long Way to Plant with Tampa Bay History Center as a gathered at Sydney to unanimously pass volunteer docent, researcher and in the west.

City” sung to the tune of the popular warcommunity lecturer, with an emphasis on a resolution opposing the creation of the Plant County would include 540 time song: “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary.”

South Hillsborough County history. new county. Opponents, such as these, square miles and a population of 9,625 Plant City organizers quickly realized

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January 2020

Page 17

Valrico Edition

Nothing Bundt Cakes In Dessert Wars Event Coming To Armature Works For the first time, Dessert Wars is coming to Tampa.

This sweet event will be held on Sunday, February 9 from 3 to 7 Dessert Wars is coming p.m. at to Tampa. Get you tickets Armature now for the largest and Works, greatest sweet tasting event in the area. located at 1910 N. Ola Ave. in Tampa. This is a ticketed event, which sells out fast.

Dessert Wars is a celebration of the ‘foodie’ lifestyle, featuring dessert vendors vying for the title of Dessert Champion.

The event features a wide array of desserts ranging from cupcakes, cookies, ice cream and doughnuts.

Dessert Wars is dubbed the Largest Dessert Festival in America. This event is perfect for the whole family.

There are several layers of tickets available. This includes Sprinkle on Top, which gets you 50 sample tickets, a ‘gobox’ and an exclusive Dessert Wars Tshirt with entry beginning at 3 p.m. These cost $75 plus fees.

VIP tickets include 50 sample tickets, a ‘go-box’ and entry beginning at 3 p.m.

These cost $60 plus fees.

General admission tickets include 30 sample tickets, a ‘go-box’ and entry beginning at 4 p.m. These cost $35 plus fees.

By Kathy L. Collins

Sample tickets are exchanged for dessert samples.

There is no extra cost for dessert.

Voting for People's Choice Champion ends at 6 p.m. and the Trophy Ceremonies begin at 6:30 p.m.

Dessert Wars debuted in 2016. Each year, they host over 50 vendors and have traditionally sold out to a crowd of 3,000. You will be astounded as you walk through rows and rows of vendors with multiple selections of ice cream, donuts, cupcakes and more.

Brad Matthews, director of Dessert Wars, said, “There is no other place that you can try out over 50 different dessert spots under one roof. It gives you the opportunity to discover unique desserts you might have never had in your life.”

For vendors, Matthews added, “It gives all of these wonderful dessert places a chance to showcase their product in front of their direct audience—dessert lovers.”

Confirmed vendors include Astro Ice Cream, Craving Donuts, Jeremiah’s Ice, Mike’s Pies, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Sprinkles and The Hyppo.

For more information on Dessert Wars and to get tickets, please visit www.dessert-wars.com.

Wings Of Freedom Brings WWII Planes To Tampa For Tour & Flights In honor of our WWII veterans, the Collings Foundation’s Wings of Freedom Tour will bring extremely rare bomber and fighter aircraft for a local living history display.

The B-24 Liberator ‘Witchcraft,’ B-25 Mitchell ‘Old Glory’ bombers and P-51 Mustang ‘Toulouse Nuts’ fighter will fly into the Tampa Executive Airport on the main ramp at 6530 Tampa Executive Airport Rd. from Monday through Thursday, January 20-23.

The B-24 is the last of its type flying in the world. The B-25 is best known as the bomber used in the Doolittle Raid.

The P-51 was the first interceptor with the long range capability to protect Allied bombers all the way to a target and back.

Visitors are invited to explore them. It is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12 for up-close viewings and tours through the inside of the B-24, with discounts for school groups.

Visitors can also take 30-minute flights aboard the aircraft. B-24 flights are $475 per person and B-25 flights are $425. P-51 flight training is $2,400 for a half-hour and $3,400 for one hour. For reservations and more information, call 800-568-8924.

The Collings Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational foundation devoted to organizing ‘living history’ events that allow people to learn more about their heritage and history through direct participation. This tour visits around

Staff Report

110 cities in over 35 states annually and is celebrating its 31st year, having been seen by tens of millions of people.

The foundation developed the Wings of Freedom Tour to engage and educate future generations in WWII history through an immersive tour and flying experience. It is a flying tribute to those who flew, maintained, built and helped protect them and to the citizens that share the freedom the aircraft helped preserve.

B-25s and B-24s were the backbone of the American effort in WWII from 1942 to 1945, famous for their ability to sustain damage and still accomplish the mission.

Despite the risks of enemy attacks and sub-zero temperatures, many safely brought their crews home. P-51s, known as the bombers’ ‘Little Friend,’ saved countless crews from attacking Axis fighters.

The Wings of Freedom Tour will arrive at 12 Noon on January 20 and depart after 12 Noon on January 23.

Ground tour and display hours are 12 Noon-4:30 p.m. on January 20, 9 a.m.4:30 p.m. on January 21 and 22 and 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on January 23.

The 30-minute flights are normally scheduled before and after the ground tour times.

For more info, visit www.collingsfoundation.org or contact Hunter Chaney, director of marketing, at hchaney@collingsfoundation.org or 800568-8924.

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Page 18

Volume 17, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

South County Transportation Improvement Projects Approved And Funded Through 2025 On November 5, the Hillsborough Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) presented the 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) for Hillsborough County, which provides a detailed overview of investment plans for funding local transportation options. The MPO is made up of local elected and appointed officials and acts as a forum to build a consensus between the public and stakeholders that own, operate and maintain transportation infrastructure with five of our seven current BOCC members on the governing board.

Transportation projects can be funded through a variety of sources that use federal, state and local dollars, or any combination of the three. After assessing available funds, eligibility requirements, funding scenarios and the region’s transportation needs, the MPO determined the cost feasibility of prospective projects (i.e., what we can afford and when) and matched it to the community’s goals.

Several projects have already been approved and funded through 2025 (First Five Years), with many other projects selected for funding over the next two decades and/or are considered a high priority for dollars that have been set aside

By Brian Bokor

(Cost Feasible 2025-2045).

Below is a brief summary of projects already approved that will have significant impact on our communities (First Five Years). Eighteen of the 27 major projects will benefit Eastern or Southern

Hillsborough County, which represents 63 percent of the total funding of over $1.1B with project T-27 (the widening of Lithia Pinecrest Rd. from Lumsden Rd. to Fishhawk Blvd.) representing the single most expensive project over the next five years at $183M. Also of interest would be T-3/T-20 (Big Bend Rd. improvements), T-16 (improvements to the Bloomingdale Ave./US 301 intersection) and T-7 (extension of Balm Rd./Paseo Al Mar Ave. from US 301 to US 41 utilizing a flyover of I-75), as well as the Bell Shoals Rd. widening project

(T-21) already underway.

The Selmon Expressway (T-17/T18) will be getting two additional lanes added (one in each direction) from the I4 connector to I-75. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. will be widened from Kingsway Rd. to McIntosh Rd. (T-1), and there will be improvements to the I75/I-4 intersection (T-4). In the Progress Village area, Madison Ave. will be improved, with lanes added from 78th St. to US 41.

For information for the complete presentation, please visit the website at www.planhillsborough.org/wpcontent/uploads/2019/10/HillsboroughM PO-LRTP2045-New-PublicHearingDraft102919.pdf.

For more information, contact Beth Alden, AICP, MPO Executive Director at 273-3774 x318 or aldenb@plancom.org.

2019

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VALRICO | SUN CITY CENTER | ELLENTON | BRADENTON

January 15 - February 5

January 2020

Page 19

Valrico Edition

Team Hosts Dueling Piano Date Night To Support Cooperstown Trip

Join The Fun At CATE’s 2nd Annual Community Day & Chili Cook-Off

A group of and coach comyoung baseball peting gets players are offering inducted into the residents a fun American Youth night out this Baseball Hall of month to help them Fame. achieve their “It is truly a dreams. FishHawk once in a lifetime Youth Baseball’s experience,” said (FYB) 2020 Woytowich.

Cooperstown team Players are FishHawk Youth Baseball’s 2020 is hosting a Dueling chosen to particiCooperstown team is hosting a Dueling Piano fundraising event on Friday, January pate in the team Piano event on 24, 2020 at the Palmetto Club.

Friday, January 24, by the FYB 2020 at the Palmetto Club in FishHawk Cooperstown committee after a tryout Ranch to raise money to fund their trip in the fall the year before they attend. to New York this summer to play in the The 13 FishHawk players will attend Cooperstown Dreams Park tournament. the tournament from Saturday to Friday, Playing in the Cooperstown tourna- July 4-10, 2020. ment, located at the home of the In order to attend the tournament, National Baseball Hall of Fame, is a the team needs to raise $30,000. goal of many young baseball players.

“This number is based on the numAccording to the team’s manager, ber of players and coaches on the Rich Woytowich, the tournament was team, as they stay in barrack style founded in 1999 to promote a high caldorms, which also include food, lodgiber of play for those 12 and under and ing, uniforms for the tournament and to allow them to experience the purity game expenses,” said Woytowich. of baseball as it was meant to be Two levels of tickets are available played. at different price points for the piano “I have had the honor of coaching night. There will also be silent auctions, most of these young men since the age 50/50 contests and a cash bar. of 7 in one form or the other,” said The team is currently sponsored by Woytowich, whose son is also a memFlatwoods Consulting and Leaven ber of the team. “The park runs tournaBrewery, but sponsorship opportunities ments for 11 weeks each summer with are still available. Tickets https://fybover 108 teams from the United States cooperstown-2020.ticketleap.com/ and Canada competing each week.”

FYB is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, 100 In addition to the tournament, there percent volunteer run organization. To is a skill competition and opening and learn more, visit www.fishhawkyouthclosing ceremonies where each player baseball.org.

If you’re looking provide good times, but for some fun family also to raise funds to time, then mark your assist its mission, such as calendar for the paying for its programs, CATE Foundation’s building rent, workbooks second annual and utilities.

Community Day to The 501(c)(3) nonbe held on Saturday, profit aims to educate the February 1. community about the sciGuests can entific nature of addiction, expect all kinds of provide educational and family entertainment, treatment resources for like jumping around recovering addicts, Cerra Sauce, a vendor from the first in bounce houses, annual Community Day. If you’re empower those in recovgetting their faces interested in /being a vendor for the ery to be better members next Community Day, make sure to of the community and painted, doing arts apply on CATE’s website. and crafts, fun with help overcome the stigma balloons, chances to win of addiction. various prizes in raffles “Our doors are open; we and more. give people who come to our CATE is currently seeking vendors. classes workbooks and things like that.

As of now, there will be about 40 vendors, Everything that we do at CATE doesn’t so there’s plenty of variety for all kinds of cost anything, it’s all free,” said Tina tastes.

McGlynn, president and co-founder of the Speaking of taste, people who love to CATE Foundation. cook and eat chili can look forward to the CATE recognizes that there are second annual Chili Cook-Off. There’s no many types of addictions and will help better time to show off your favorite chili anyone who seeks them, be it for drug, recipes and see how much everyone alcohol, gambling, food or other addicenjoys them. It costs $25 to enter, and tions. It also helps the family and friends there’ll be cash prizes for first, second of those in recovery. and third place.

Community Day will last from 11 a.m.

To register for the Chili Cook-Off or to 4 p.m. at E.G. Simmons Regional Park find the vendor application, visit the on 2401 19th Ave. NW. in Ruskin. It is 2cate.org and select ‘EVENTS’. You must free to attend, but the park’s entrance fee register by Wednesday, January 29. is $2 per vehicle, up to eight people per Judging for the Chili Cook-Off will start at vehicle.

12 Noon, and chili will be ready for samFor information, call 773-7175, email pling by 1 p.m. for $5. contact@2cate.org or follow CATE’s CATE presents this event not only to Facebook page @CateFoundation.

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Page 20

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

Valrico

January 2020

Volume 17, Issue 1

Recruitment Event For ChildCare Careers

ChildCare Careers (CCC) is the largest staffing firm dedicated to the child care field. CCC provides fully qualified and pre-screened teachers, assistant teachers and site directors to child care centers, preschools and before and after school programs. Full and part time positions offered.

On Monday, January 28 from 12 Noon-3 p.m. Job Connection, 10739 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview, will hold interviews for Teacher’s Aides, Teacher’s Assistants and Preschool Teachers. You must be 18 or older and a DCF 45 training hours is a plus. For more information, contact Rebecca at 727-578-0999 or tampa.recr3@childcarecareers.net.

U.S. Census Bureau Is Hiring

The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting for over 3,000 positions in Hillsborough and Manatee County.

Events will take place for Recruiting Assistants, Clerks, Office Operations, Supervisors and Census Takers at Job Connection, 10739 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Hour-long info sessions will be held for job seekers to gather information and meet with a recruiter.

These events will take place on Wednesday, January 15, 22 and 29.

Ph: 657-2418

Kim’s Natural Pets is located at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.

8th Annual ‘Top Hats & Tiaras’ Charity Ball Collects 22 Boxes Of Toys For Tots Plus 23 Bikes

Bob Savage and Tatyana Frost, the producers of the Holiday Charity ball to benefit Toys for Tots, held the Eighth Annual event at the premiere venue, The Regent, in Riverview on December 12, 2019. 180 people enjoyed the event while the charity collected 23 bikes and 22 boxes of toys. The theme was ‘Top Hats & Tiaras.’ Savage and Frost are grateful to all the people that supported the charity and helped less fortunate children to have a Christmas. Delicious food was catered by Inside the Box

Tatyana Frost of The Way 2 Dance and Bob Savage with Savage Consulting, held their Eighth Annual Toys For Tots Benefit at The Regent, in Riverview on December 12, 2019 where 22 boxes of boys and 23 bikes were collected.

Session times are 11 a.m.-12 Noon, 12 Noon1 p.m., 1-2 p.m. and 2-3 p.m.

Pay starts at $18.50, $.59/mile for travel, flexible hours (30-45 per week). You must be 18 years or older and a U.S. Citizen, Registered for the Selective Service (males only – if born after 1960). For more information, call Gloria at 703-887-3868 or visit https://2020census.gov/en/jobs.html.

Be My Valentine Pet Photo Day At Kim’s Natural Pets

Kim’s Natural Pets will be hosting Be My Valentine Pet Photo Day, which will take place on Friday and Saturday, February 7 and 8. You have to sign up for a time slot, so an RSVP is necessary. Call 684-3663.

Catering, professional shows by Dance Quest International and top USA competitors William Proper & Jennifer Elliott, DJ Chris Heath with

Big Beats Entertainment, Live Music

by LeNoir Entertainment, Raffles & Auction Items by Socially Founded, photos by Florida Rustic Photo and videos by Panache Star Productions and Mach Media 5.

According to Frost, “We are so looking forward to the next year event as we believe the theme of the event ‘Proud to be American’ will draw many more people to support children in need.” They are looking for more help to volunteer, to sponsor, to bring new unwrapped toys and to attend the event. Save the Date: December 10, 2020 from 6:30-10:30 p.m. at the Regent. For more information, call Savage 240-7772 or Frost at 9664788. For more information on The Way 2 Dance, visit www.theway2dance.com.

New Dance Class Offered For Special Needs Dancers

A variety of dance classes are offered at Dance Quest International, but it would like to showcase its new Harmony Dance Program which pairs special needs dancers with an experienced dance mentor who will encourage and assist throughout the class. This class will begin in

Continued on next page

Page 22

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

By Michelle Colesanti

February.

Dance Quest International is located at 853 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. For more information on this and other classes, call 5036976 or visit www.DanceQuestOnline.com.

Scouting For Food Aims To Impact Hunger With Canned Food Collection

Staff Report

Elite Window Tinting Offered Locally

Mobile Auto Tinting service has rebranded and has become Elite Window Tinting, now with a shop location (as of November 2018). It has been offering tinting services for over eight years.

According to owner Randy Borrero, “We have grown our footprint in the Bloomingdale, Valrico and Lithia areas to a household name recognized for our attention to detail, great client satisfaction and a positive approach to each of our clients.”

Borrero is proud to be part of the local community and tries to stay involved.

He makes a point every year to donate to the American Cancer Society via the FishHawk Strong Foundation.

Elite Window Tinting is located at 3636 Erindale Dr., Ste. 104 in Valrico.

For more information on Elite Window Tinting, call 642-4310. You can visit www.elitewindowvalrico.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/elitewindow.

Volume 17, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

Randy Borrero is the owner of Elite Window Tinting located in Valrico.

The Valrico FishHawk Awards Annual Dinner

On Thursday, January 23 from 69 p.m., the Valrico FishHawk Chamber will host its own version of The CMAs, the Valrico FishHawk Awards (aka The VFAs). The chamber is home grown right here in the Valrico/FishHawk area and heading towards 300 members strong. This will be an evening of denim and diamonds to celebrate chamber members and reflect on the year 2019 and look to what will be in store with the decade to come.

Purchase your tickets online, strap on your boots and cowboy hat for an amazing evening at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. The cost is $50 in advance. Visit https://business.valricofishhawk.org/events/details/annualdinner-3696 to purchase tickets.

Scouting for The Boy Food seeks to Scouts of America collect a recordis a program that setting amount of teaches young food to fight men and women hunger, powered values, leaderby thousands of ship, adventure boys and girls in and—most imporlocal Boy Scouts tantly—how to of America lend a helping groups across hand and assist West Central those in need.

Florida.

More than Scouts ages 5 through 17 will go door-to- 15,000 Scouts Scouts ages door in their neighborhoods to place door 5 through 17 will are members of hangers with information on Scouting for Food on Saturday, January 25, 2020 and lead the way, the local branch then will return to collect nonperishable food of Boy Scouts of going door-todonations left on front porches on Saturday, door in their America, the February 1, 2020. neighborhoods to Greater Tampa place door hangers Bay Area Council. The with information on council and its Scouting Saturday, January 25, for Food effort covers 2020 and then will nine counties, stretching return to collect nonfrom Crystal River to perishable food donaLake Placid and including tions left on front the counties of Citrus, porches one week Hardee, Hernando, later on Saturday, Highlands, Hillsborough, February 1, 2020.

Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Scouting for Food Sumter. Food collected in will take place on the weekends lead- our community will benefit ECHO ing up to the Super Bowl, and the food banks.

Greater Tampa Bay Area Council— “Our Scouts and adult leaders will our region’s branch of the Boy Scouts hand-deliver all the collected food of America—is joining more than items to local food banks in their 4,000 participating groups in the communities,” said Jim Rees, CEO of Souper Bowl of Caring, a nonprofit the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council. organization that collected more than “We believe this will be our region’s 4,500,000 pounds of food in 2019. biggest food drive by Boy Scouts “Serving others is at the heart of ever.” what Scouting is all about,” said To stay up to date on the Scouting for Food Event Chair progress of Scouting for Food in Melissa Snively, who serves as chair 2020, follow on Facebook or visit of the Hillsborough County School TampaBayScouting.org.

Board. “In Florida alone, more than The Boy Scouts of America has 850,000 children struggle with programs for both young men and hunger. Our scouts will be energized women, from kindergarten until the knowing they are helping other young age of 21 years old. For more inforpeople through Scouting for Food.” mation, visit TampaBayScouting.org.

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January 2020

Valrico Edition

Page 23

Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019

Big Moves, Big Year, 2019 Is One For the Record Books

Thank you again for participating in the Our Favorite Things Sweepstakes Program this holiday season!

This year, we had the most successful campaign we have ever done and we were able to surprise three local families with amazing prizes!

The Early Bird Big Green Egg Minimax from Rolling Pin Kitchen went to the Yick family.

The diamond and blue topaz earrings from McAuley Fine Jewelry went to USF Sophomore Claire Eberhart, A Bloomingdale High School grad and polite young woman pursuing her nursing degree.

And, the Grand Prize with a mountain of gift baskets and gift certificates went to the Morin Family who just moved to Riverview from Alaska 2 months ago and Mom Leah and

daughters Kai and Zoe can NOT wait to get into the community and try all of the great gift certificates and prizes!

In addition, we were able to donate $500 to the foster care home, A Kid's Place for them to purchase gift items and gift certificates movie passes for the teens in foster care. There are always 60 foster children at A Kid's Place right on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. And finally, we were able to donate 100 toys to Toys for Tots which is a program through the Marines to get gifts to kids this season!

In addition to all of this holiday excitement, the Osprey Observer has moved its offices to our new location at 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and we look forward to welcoming the community this year! January marks our 18th year of publishing positive community news and we couldn’t do it without you!

Thank you for being a special part of our holiday season and please let us know if there is anything we can do for you or your business!

Email me anytime at editor@ospreyobserver.com

School District Breaks Ground On New South County High School TTT

By Kate Quesada

Progress is underway for the new Hillsborough County school set to relieve overcrowding at Newsome, Durant, East Bay and Lennard highs.

Hillsborough County officials, community leaders and construction experts met at the school site, located at 10650 C.R. 672 in Riverview, last month to officially break ground on the project and share artist renderings of the school with those in Hillsborough County Public Schools recently broke ground on the new “High attendance.

School TTT” located off C.R. 672 in “Construction is booming in South Riverview. The school is expected to open Hillsborough County with thousands of in August 2020. students expected to be entering our 2019 was an exciting year for anyschools over the next three to five years,” one associated with High School TTT, said Hillsborough County Public School’s now named Jule F. Sumner High Tanya Arja.

“The high schools in that area School. Construction is on schedule are already near or over capacity.” to be completed so that the first stuThe new school, currently known as dents will be able to enter the school “High School TTT” for planning purposes, in August for the 2020-21 school year. will cost an estimated $70 million to build, Dave Brown, who most recently held funded by three years of impact fee colthe position of principal at Strawberry lections.

Enrollment is expected to reach Crest High School, was named princi3,000 students at the 239,000 sq. ft. pal as has spent the last few months building, which is planned to open in working to staff the school and make August 2020.

This is the first high school sure it will be ready for students in the to be built in the area in 10 years. fall. Local parents and students chose The new school will be located on the Stingray as the school’s mascot. the north side of C.R. 672 (Balm Rd.), Sumner will also host Academy 2027, east of U.S. Hwy. 301. a one of a kind middle school program Residents interested in learning more for students who will graduate high about the attendance boundary changes school in the year 2027. Academy are invited to attend the Hillsborough 2027 will accept students through County School Board meeting on school choice. For more information, January 15 at 901 E. Kennedy Blvd. in contact Brown at Tampa.

For more information, visit David.Brown@sdhc.k12.fl.us. or visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us or call 272-4608. To www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. submit questions or comments, email Original Story printed January boundaries@sdhc.k12.fl.us.

2019.

Page 24

Volume 17, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Middle School Makes Big Impact With Dodgeball Tourney To Fund Crossing Guards

By Kate Quesada

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

After raising over $13,000 for private crossing guards at Mulrennan Middle School last year, Commissioner White added ‘finding funding’ on the agenda in February 2019. The vote, which took place in April, was unanimous; 7-0 in favor of funding crossing guards for middle schools.

PTA President Danielle Waymire said, “After advocating for so long for crossing guards, it was a great moment to be present for the vote.

We felt that our county commissioners and Sheriff Chronister took our children’s safety seriously.”

The implementation of crossing guards was to be over a three-year period of time and more than 100 crossing guards were needed.

Sheriff Chronister started immediately hiring and training guards so that on the first day of school in August, county middle schools had crossing guards for the first time.

Original Story printed February 2019.

A group of parents at Mulrennan Middle School took their children’s safety into their own hands last month. Frustrated by the conditions for students who walk to the Valrico middle school, the parents raised $13,000 through a dodgeball tournament to fund three private crossing guards.

Valrico resident and mother of three Mulrennan students, Danielle Waymire spearheaded the fundraiser when one of her children was almost hit by car while walking to school.

“It got to the point where enough was enough,” said Waymire, who walks her children to school every day. “I couldn’t just watch cars regularly not yielding and children almost getting hit without doing something.”

Once funded, it took less than two weeks for the crossing guards to take their places twice a day directing students and traffic.

“They have already made a huge difference,” said Mulrennan parent and Valrico resident Bridget Wilson. “We are so proud of our school and the fact that we were able to make this happen,” said Wilson. “But we are even happier that local politicians have noticed. We are hoping that by the next school year we won’t have to do this anymore.”

Mulrennan Middle School is located at 4215 Durant Rd. in Valrico and can be reached at 651-2100.

The Florida Aquarium Opens $4 Million Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center In Apollo Beach The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehab, which opened early in 2019 in Apollo Beach, has been busy doing what it was designed for: rehabilitating turtles from around the state and even nationally, then releasing them when they are healthy enough. The Aquarium received three critically endangered loggerhead sea turtles in December 2019. The turtles were found stranded on Cape Cod after being severely affected by the cold-water temperatures in New England, experiencing what is called a ‘coldstun.’ The turtles were then transported to the New England Aquarium’s sea turtle hospital for triage. They were then transported by private jet to Tampa. The Florida Aquarium’s Animal Response Team, supported by Florida Blue, picked up the sea turtles from the airport and transported them to the Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach. The sea turtles will remain at the Center until they are fully rehabilitated and will hopefully be returned to the sea.

Original Story printed February 2019.

The Florida Aquarium officially opened its $4.1 million Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in January in Apollo

By Preston Rudie

Beach. The two-story, 19,000 sq. ft. center features five different rehabilitation pools including one of the state’s deepest turtle-exclusive dive pool with observation window.

“We rescue sea turtles from around Florida and beyond, but during winter months, there is a growing need for more animal care facilities to rehabilitate cold stunned sea turtles,” said The Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Germann. “This center is opening at the right time, and The Florida Aquarium will be able to dramatically increase the number of sea turtles it cares for during the year.”

The pools at the new care center range in size from 1,500 to 25,000-gallons. The sea turtle dive pool, which reaches a depth of 11 ft., will be used to assess buoyancy issues, swim conditioning and food trials before turtles are cleared by FWC to be returned back into the wild.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) contributed $3 million, The Spurlino Foundation and others donated $690,000. The Florida Aquarium contributed more than $400,000 and TECO Energy helped make through a generous land use agreement.

Since inception, the Florida Aquarium has helped rescue and rehab more than 150 threatened or endangered turtles.

January 2020

Page 25

Valrico Edition

Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019

Lithia Residents Find Perfect Home With HGTV House Hunters

By Kate Quesada

The Potter family has been settled into their new home in FishHawk for a little over a year now, and according to Franka Potter, “This was exactly what my children and I needed to start our new lives.”

She expressed that the children have settled into school and the neighborhood and all are doing great. She also said that, thus far, the move has provided all she imagined and then some. “The House Hunters experience was very exciting for my family and I am thrilled that over a year later that the decision I made on the show has proven to be a great one for the family. FishHawk is amazing and I am blessed that we get to enjoy it at this time in our lives,” Potter added.

Original Story printed March 2019.

A Lithia family made its national television debut last month after an exciting move. Franka Potter and her four children were featured on HGTV’s popular television show House Hunters finding their new home in FishHawk.

Potter, who was moving to the Tampa area from the British Virgin Islands following a divorce from her husband of 15 years, was approached by her realtor asking if she would be inter-

ested in being on the show.

“I said yes, and everything went from there,” she said.

When looking for a house in the Tampa area, Potter told her realtor that she would like to find a beautiful, safe home with four to five bedrooms, two to three bathrooms, an open-plan living room, yard and home office in a great school district, as her children range in age from 6 to 14 years old.

“I started out looking at three communities in the Wesley Chapel area; while they were beautiful, they did not meet the exact needs for my family,” said Potter. “My realtor asked if I was willing to travel a little further as she thought Lithia would provide all I wanted and more as a newly single mom. On the first visit, I knew it was everything my children and I wanted and needed and that our search was over.”

“The show was like the icing on the cake,” she said. “We were able to document this beautiful, exciting and new experience. It was a joy for the children and their new friends as well.”

Potter and her family moved into the home July 1, 2018 and are so far very happy there.

To learn more about House Hunters and the schedule of showings, visit www.hgtv.com.

Old Sweetbay Finally Finds A Fit With New Charter School

By Brad Stager

The new charter provider team school, Navigator for the school, Academy, opened in the end result of time for the new the transition school season in from an unused August 2019. supermarket will Applications are be a high-quality currently being facility appropriaccepted until ate for education Friday, January 17, when it opens in at the fall. http://navigator.stu“It allows us dentreg.org/ for the to repurpose a An old Sweetbay store is being 2020/21 school year. transformed to a new charter school in building that’s Valrico.

Registration is via a been a hidden lottery system. The first lottery will eyesore,” she said of the property that take place on Friday, January 24. has been unoccupied since 2009.

Original Story printed March “There’s been a lot of due diligence by 2019. the developer for this.”

Where Valrico customers once As a Hillsborough County district shopped for food to put on the table a public charter school, Navigator new tuition-free public charter school is Academy follows state mandated stantaking shape to nourish young minds. dards in curriculum content and assessNavigator Academy of Leadership, a ment. Students will take standardized K-8 school with a SMART curriculum tests, but preparation for those exams emphasizing science, math, art, reading are not the school’s focus, according to and technology with an expected enrollIvan Hernandez, who works with Aguilar ment of about 1,000 students, will be to manage the academy’s academics. housed in the long-vacant 58,505 sq. ft.

The curriculum also includes art former Sweetbay supermarket at 1101 and music instruction to complement Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico just east of technology offerings that range from Bell Shoals Rd. robotics to space exploration.

The conversion is being done by The school’s location will help fulfill MG3 Developer Group of Hollywood, the educational needs of the growing Florida. MG3 has developed several number of families in the area, said charter school projects throughout the Aguilar. state, including BridgePrep Academy of “It seems parents in this area want Riverview. choice.”

According to Melissa Prado Aguilar, For more information,visit navigatorawho is part of the educational services cademyvalrico.com or call 863-866-7566.

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Page 26

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Local Couple Finds Niche With New 90 Day Dream Home Series On HGTV

BayCare Fitness Center Offers State Of The Art Health & Wellness Solutions

explained, “Mika takes her clients around to three or four inspiration homes.

They may like a kitchen in one house but not the bathroom or the master bedroom but not the backyard, so we take all the elements of everything they like from all those houses and put them into one perfect house for them.

We then build it Local residents, Brian and Mika from the Kleinschmidt, filmed their new HGTV show, ground up in 90 days or less.”

90 Day Dream Home, in the Tampa Bay area. The show aired its pilot premiere on Brian explained, “We saw a niche in April 27 at 10 p.m. on HGTV. doing a new construction home on HGTV has decided to pick up HGTV. No one else is doing it. All of the the 90 Day Dream Home show and shows on the network are about flips and the entire season is currently in renovations. We wanted to bring somethe process of being filmed. Air thing different and unique.” time for the new episodes will Mika and Brian met in high school at probably take place in the late Riverview High School about 20 years spring/early fall. ago. While they never dated in high Original Story printed May school and life took them on different 2019. paths, they reconnected about 10 years Local residents, Brian and Mika ago. They built four Anytime Fitness Kleinschmidt, are hosts of HGTV’s gyms together. They then sold one of the newest show, 90 Day Dream Home. The gyms and used the proceeds to focus on show aired with its pilot premiere on April real estate.

27 at 10 p.m. on HGTV. This is the first When asked how and why they got time that a show on HGTV has been into doing a show, Brian said, “I am not based and filmed in Florida. really sure if we found the show or the Each one-hour episode will cover the show found us.” Now that the show has complete construction of a new home. had its pilot premiere, HGTV will decide Mika is a licensed real estate agent and whether to air a six or 13-episode seaBrian is the project manager. Brian son. Stay tuned and find out.

Valrico, Florida 33596. Call 440-5544 or visit www.academicallderm.com.

Original Story printed May 2019.

The new BayCare Fitness Center in Bloomingdale is a 20,000 sq. ft., state-of-the-art facility designed to provide services focused on whole body health and wellness. The fitness center, managed by EXOS–a The BayCare Fitness Center in Bloomingdale includes global leader in human performa HealthHub and state of the art fitness facility that is ance and fitness management a one-stop experience for health and wellness for the incorporates high-tech wellness whole family. tools through web, mobile and BayCare HealthHub™ in Valrico, in-person experiences. At the recent open opened its doors to the community house, community members and last May combining the benefits of BayCare team members were invited to health, wellness and technology. take a first look at the state-of-the-art fitBringing full service health and ness center. More than 200 guests urgent care, onsite labs, fitness attended the event. center, childcare and now even derTodd Jones, vice president of ambumatology and a monthly community latory experience and operations, Farmer's Market, the HealthHub explained “We offer integration of medical continues to become the core of the services with BayCare TechDeck, single Valrico community. registrations desks and other innovative The market is held on the third technology,” said Jones. “We’re also perSaturday of every month from 9 sonalizing services that meet members a.m.-1 p.m. featuring local vendors, where they are and recommending profresh produce, a food truck and grams and materials that support their more. Fun activities for the kids journey.” include free face painting.

The 115,000- q. ft. facility integrates Academic Alliance in traditional health care services such as Dermatology has served the Tampa primary care, pediatrics, adult rehabilitaBay metro area for 30+ years, protion, behavioral health and more. viding premier general and cosmetBayCare Fitness Center is located at ic dermatology services as well as 2470 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For aesthetic services. They now have more information, call 995-8728 or visit an office inside the health hub www.baycare.org/locations/b/baycare-fitAddress: 2438 Bloomingdale Ave. ness-center-bloomingdale.

By Kathy L. Collins

By Kelly Wise Valdes

January 2020

Page 27

Valrico Edition

Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Design Phase Complete On New 10-Mile Opening Dates Announced As Bloomingdale Square Reconstruction Continues South Coast Greenway Trail

By Kate Quesada

Original Story printed June 2019.

Hillsborough County has good news for residents who enjoy the outdoors.

Representatives recently hosted a public meeting showing design plans for the first phase of the South Coast Greenway Trail, a 10-mile project that will extend from Little Manatee River Preserve to Symmes Rd. in Riverview.

The first phase, known as 1 A, is a 1.2 mile stretch in the Ruskin area that will extend from Shell Point Rd. to 19th Ave. near 30th St. The trail will be 12 feet wide and will be paved to accommodate travel, exercise and recrePlans are in the design phases for the first phase ational uses for cyclists and of the South Coast Greenway Trail which will eventually extend from Little Manatee River to pedestrians between Symmes Rd. in Riverview. The first phase is a Hillsborough and Manatee coun1.2 mile stretch in Ruskin. ties.

Southeastern Hillsborough “The proposed design includes a County residents will have to wait a 492-foot-long pedestrian bridge, little longer to experience the new wayfinding signs and pavement marksection of the South Coast ings, landscaping, benches, bike Greenway Trail. According to racks, shade shelters and trash recepHillsborough County’s Chris tacles,” said Wilkerson.

Wilkerson, construction on the trail In addition, the trail will provide in Ruskin between Shell Point Rd. connectivity to Hillsborough And 19th Ave. near 30th St. is now Community College’s (HCC) set to begin this summer. However, Southshore Campus. sections of the trail, which runs The projected cost for the project from Hillsborough to Manatee coun- is $1,702,000, with $85,000 for design ties are open and provide a great and $1,617,000 for construction. opportunity for residents to explore To learn more about the project, different areas. please visit www.HCFLGov.net.

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The construction continues at Bloomingdale Square. There is a light at the end of the tunnel as the new tenants have begun opening.

There was a lot of excitement in the community when First Watch and Chicken Salad Chick recently opened. Home Centric also recently opened next to Bealls and saw a lot of shoppers making holiday purchases. The new Publix is now scheduled to open in the first quarter of the new year, but as of this printing, there is no scheduled date available.

Original Story printed July 2019.

It has been almost a year since the redevelopment of Bloomingdale Square began, and with all the construction underway, everyone is curious about the target dates for new tenants and store openings.

The long-vacant Walmart space is currently being converted into a new 48,841-sq.-ft. Publix, a 1,600-sq.-ft. Publix Liquors, as well as a 15,000-sq.-ft. Home Centric, a home goods store owned by Bealls that features a continually changing assortment of home products.

The anticipated opening date for the new Publix is tentatively set for Thursday, November 7. The existing Publix will keep

By Brian Bokor

its doors open until the day the new one is ready. “There will be no down time for Publix,” reported Marc Elias, who is the leasing contact agent for Bloomingdale Square, Regency Centers.

The old 40,000-sq.-ft. Publix location will be home to a new LA Fitness once the storefront becomes available and build-out is complete (early 2020).

It has also been announced that Beef ‘O’Brady’s will open next to Truly Greek.

Adjacent to that is a currently available 1,200-sq.-ft. storefront, followed by a 3,000-sq.-ft. Banfield Pet Hospital, then a 2,800-sq.-ft. Pacific Dental Services.

Next will be 1,200-sq.-ft. GNC Live Well, and the building will be anchored by a 2,700-sq.-ft. Chicken Salad Chick, a restaurant specializing in fresh, housemade chicken salad.

A traffic light has been installed at the entrance/exit on Bell Shoals Rd. For leasing information, contact Elias at 664-4823 or visit the corporate website at www.regencycenters.com.

Page 28

Volume 17, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

Year In Review- Updates On The Top Stories From 2019 Second Time Arounders Adult Marching Band To Perform At Macy’s Parade

By Kate Quesada

The Second Time Arounders, an all-adult marching band, will perform at Riverview High School and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this November.

The Second Time Arounders hosted another successful Macy’s Parade appearance with hundreds of band members in attendance.

New members are always welcome.

Original Story printed September 2019.

A group of SouthShore-area residents' dreams are coming true in November. The Second Time Arounders, an all-adult marching band, is performing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade after making at stop at Riverview High School to perform an exhibition at the Florida Marching Band Regional Championships.

The group, made up of more than 350 musicians, majorettes, dancers, rifles and flag team members ages 18 to 85 from around the Tampa Bay area, only has one requirement; that the members have participated in a marching band previously.

“It could have been high school, college, military or a drum corps,” said member and majorette Cathy Kersten.

Over the last 37 years, the Second Time Arounders have been marching locally and around the country with typi-

cally five to seven performances a season.

The group, which usually practices once a week, was created in St. Petersburg when Director Bill Findeisen thought it would be fun to participate in the parade associated with the Festival of States.

“A group of high school and middle school band directors got together and dreamed up the idea that they should form an adult group of music enthusiasts that might want to march again, one more time,” said Kersten. “And so it evolved.”

According to Kersten, only eight or nine bands pass the rigorous application process to perform during the Macy’s Parade, and the costs for the trip are high.

“We have fundraisers available for band members to participate in to help with their funds,” said Kersten, who has been a member of the group for eight years. “Many members have been working concessions at the Rays and Bucs games and we also hold a Chili Cook-Off and Oktober-Fest as local fundraisers.”

For more information, visit www.secondtimearounders.org.

Five Decades Filled With Festival Fun At Nativity Novemberfest, Nov 21-24

By Amanda Boston

Novemberfest Strawberry Festival, is a time-honored Novemberfest is the tradition in third largest annual Brandon and a carnival in prime example of Hillsborough County. how the communiMore than just a ty joins together to time-honored tradisupport Nativity tion, Novemberfest is Catholic School.

Nativity’s largest Alexis Redig, fundraiser supporting Nativity’s faith and its school and faith media coordinator, formation program. commented on The family-fun Novemberfest’s attracts about social media pres100,000 people each Sharon Evans, Susan Davis and Sherry Stewart selling advanced arm- year and is put on by ence this year. bands for students outside of church its parish volunteers.

“It never ceasgarage in 1989. es to amaze me Admission, parkhow much love for Novemberfest ing and entertainment are all free. our surrounding community has. I Crowd favorite Soul Circus Cowboy will see this in the almost 18,000 folperform Friday at 8:30 p.m. The country lowers on our Novemberfest page rock band’s lead singer, Billy McKnight, and the countless posts is an alumnus of Nativity Catholic Novemberfest is tagged in leading School. Also back this year is Classix, up to and during the event.” who will take ‘Center Stage’ on “Novemberfest celebrated its Saturday at 8:30 p.m.

50th anniversary this year,” said Paying homage to Novemberfest’s Cindy Ehringer. “We are so thank50th anniversary, midway rides will ful to our sponsors and volunteers include the Zipper, which recently celeto help make this community event brated 50 years. so successful. We look forward to New this year is ‘Money Mania.’ seeing everyone in November 2020 Instead of only one grand prize cash for the 51st annual Novemberfest.” winner, raffles will be held throughout Original Story printed October the event. The cash prizes are in the 2019. amounts of $2,500, $1,000, $750, $500 Nativity Catholic’s Novemberfest and $250 with the grand prize of will celebrate five decades of festival $5,000 announced on Sunday. fun when it returns from Thursday, www.nativitycatholicchurch.org/nov November 21 to Sunday, November 24. emberfest. Nativity is located at 705 E. Following the Florida State Fair and Brandon Blvd. in Brandon.

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Page 29

Valrico Edition

Artists, Young And Old, Are Invited To Enter Artwork In The Annual Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show

By Kathy L. Collins

A Call To at the Artists has Suncoast been issued Credit Union by the East Plant City Hillsborough branch.

Art Guild There are (EHAG) for prizes for first, the 2020 second and Artists, young and old, proFlorida third places in fessional and amateur, are encouraged to enter original all Adult and Youth Divisions.

Strawberry artwork into the 2020 Florida Festival Fine Artists who do not win one of the Strawberry Festival Fine Art Art Show above prizes are eligible for a Show. which runs Business Leaders Choice Award. from Thursday, February 27 through These awards are sponsored by local Sunday, March 8 at the Festival businesses and chosen by a repreGrounds in Plant City. The show will sentative of the business. Artists are be held in the Milton E. Hull Building. also able to win the People’s Choice Adults are divided into Award. The winner receives $50.

Professional Groups (entry fee is $15) New this year is the Special and Amateur Groups (entry fee is Awards. Area residents can become a $12). Adults can enter Oils, Acrylics, sponsor and select a winning artist Watercolors, Graphic/Mixed Media who will receive a ribbon and $50.

The entry fee for Miniature Art (2D Chairperson Karen Crumley said, Media) and Sculpture (3D Art) is $12.

“Anyone in the area can be a sponsor The Youth Divisions are by ages. the Special Awards.”

Youth can enter Oils, Acrylics, Space is limited and entries are Watercolors, Graphic/Mixed Media accepted on a first come, first serve and Sculpture. The entry fee is $5. basis. Early entries are accepted until Adults can enter up to four Friday, February 11. Artists can mail entries, but no more than two in the their entry form and fee to East same division. Youth can enter up to Hillsborough Art Guild, P.O. Box two entries.

3055, Plant City, FL 33564. Artwork Entries are eligible for substantial must be brought to the Festival monetary awards. This includes $100 Grounds on Friday, February 21 from for the Strawberry Theme Award, 12 noon to 6 p.m. $300 for Best of Show and $500 for Entry forms and rules can be the Exclusive Purchase Award which found at FLstrawberryfestival.com. If is sponsored by Suncoast Credit you have questions, please email Union. In addition to the prize money, Crumley at kscrumley@yahoo.com or the winning artist’s piece is displayed call 924-3829.

Bell Shoals Baptist Church Introduces New Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney Dr. Corey Abney has been named the new senior pastor at Bell Shoals Baptist Church. Bell Shoals has been without a senior pastor since February 2019, when Dr. Stephen Rummage was called to pastor a church in Oklahoma City after serving in Brandon for nearly 10 years.

As senior pastor, Dr. Abney will lead the multi-campus congregation’s vision and strategy and will preach on Sundays at the Brandon campus, located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. His first Sunday at the Brandon campus was December 22.

Dr. Abney also lead Christmas Eve services.

44-year-old Dr. Abney is currently the lead pastor of Florence Baptist Church in Northern Kentucky, where he has served since 2012.

“I am eager to start serving at Bell Shoals,” Dr. Abney said, following the church’s unanimous affirming of his call on November 24. “This is a church with a rich history in West Central Florida, and I know that God wants to guide our church toward even better days in the future.”

At Florence Baptist, Dr. Abney led the church to see a 32 percent increase in worship attendance while increasing its giving by 35 percent and reducing its debt by nearly 50 percent.

He also has led the church to start two

By Kevin Bumgarner

On November 24, Dr. Corey Abney preached for the Bell Shoals congregation and accepted the position as senior pastor that same evening.

new churches and establish multiple partnerships in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati. He also launched a second campus for Florence Baptist as part of a revitalization effort.

“Our Senior Pastor Search Committee did an excellent job of bringing Corey Abney to us,” said Gary Payne, Bell Shoals’ executive pastor.

“We are all looking forward to his leadership.”

Dr. Abney and his wife, Christina, have four children. He has a Doctor of Philosophy in Preaching, Old Testament and New Testament from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

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Page 30

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 1

Photos courtesy of Buddy Baseball

Hillsborough County Funds Wheelchair-Accessible Baseball Fields In Temple Terrace and all donations are On January 6, tax-deductible. the first-ever wheelDonations can be made chair-accessible online at buddybasebaseball fields in ball.org or by contacting Hillsborough County Oberbroeckling were unveiled in a at russ@buddybaseribbon-cutting cereball.org. mony in conjunction ”We're overwith the City of whelmed by the support Temple Terrace and provided by our elected Buddy Baseball. officials and the City of Buddy Baseball is a Temple Terrace to this non-competitive The league has grown to 20 teams with more than 100 different schools participating. much-needed project to recreational league inTemple Terrace. more than 100 different for boys and girls Each player is paired with a buddy to A player crosses the plate and create an even better setting where children Since the schools participating. ages 8 to 22 with scores a run. assist on the field and in the dugout. with unique needs are underleague's inception in 2009, the players Buddy Baseball is special needs. Each player is paired stood and embraced,” said seeking additional donations and sponwith a buddy to assist on the field and in had been playing on traditional clay and Oberbroeckling. sod softball fields, which can be chalsorships to support the growing league, the dugout. lenging for children with mobility issues.

Players and buddies joined the celCurrently there are no other synthetic ebration to play the first game on the turf baseball fields in Hillsborough new fields. "The need for these fields is County for children with special needs. evident by the growth of our league, $ 00 According to the website, Buddy which has grown to 20 teams for each Baseball began through a dedicated of our spring and fall seasons,” said Full Service Car Wash with Oil Change. group of volunteers, attracting 36 playRuss Oberbroeckling, Buddy Baseball Hole Includes Filter & 5 qts Oil ers and 38 buddies to form six teams in founder and executive director.

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Page 31

Valrico Edition

Photos courtesy of Nancy Nahas

Bloomingdale Bulls Football Has Successful National Signing Day For Students The Bloomingdale football program had a busy National Signing Day (early signing period) with four players signing to play college football. Maurice Frost, Jr. (Navy), Dominic Gonnella (North Dakota State), Gabe Jones (Davidson) and Quinton McCoy (Illinois) are all going to play at the next level.

Receiver Maurice Frost, Jr. signed to play at the Naval Academy.

Quinton McCoy will play for Gabe Jones signed to play at Coach Lovie Smith at the Davidson University.

“There’s a brotherhood, University of Illinois. a family, and the people University. “I’m happy and I’m there, the culture and the history behind proud of myself and my teammates for it, it’s amazing,” Frost said. He plans on making it this far and putting in the extra going into the medical corps, and will work to get to where we’re at,” said serve his five years of military duty after Gonnella. He wants to get better every school. “I’m so grateful for this opportuniyear, and see where that takes him. His ty. It’s breathtaking, because this has main goal is to go pro after college. “I been my dream since I was little,” Frost want to thank Bloomingdale, because I said. “I’m actually moving on and going to feel like that step of coming here helped a D1 school that is top 25. We are on the me a lot and put me a position to sign map.” and make it to where I can choose where Running back Dominic Gonnella is I want to go.” going to play for the most accomplished Linebacker Gabe Jones battled back FCS program in North Dakota State through two ACL reconstruction surgeries

geon.

Defensive tackle Quinton McCoy will play for Coach Lovie Smith at the University of Illinois.

“I’ve been working since I was a kid to achieve this and being able to choose means everything to me.”

He has lofty goals and expectations for his football career, wanting to make All-Big 10 First Team and eventually going pro. He will study business management.

Dominic Gonnella signed to “I’m excited to be here Maurice Frost, Jr. signed to play at North Dakota State play at the Naval Academy. and can’t wait.”

University. to sign at Frost, Gonnella, Jones, McCoy and Davidson University. “Growing up, football the rest of the 2020 class will leave honestly wasn’t a big dream of mine,” Bloomingdale as the winningest class in said Jones. “I got to high school and fell in school history with 33-13 overall record, love with the sport and knew that I wantsetting a precedent for the program. ed to do it at the next level. My main pas“They are going to be missed, and I sion has always been medical school, appreciate everything they have done for and Davidson has a great pre-med prous,” said Bloomingdale Head Coach Jake gram, so I can follow both of my dreams Coulson. “That group of kids bought in at the same time.” Jones wants to get and never questioned, you knew they reps as a freshman and battle for a startwere going to put in what they needed to ing job, while keeping up with academics. do to be successful. These guys set the He eventually wants to go to Duke bar, and so we just need to keep it going.”

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Volume 17, Issue 1

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