Osprey Observer Valrico January 2021

Valrico

PICKUP & DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE

SEE OUR AD ON PAGE:

13

C E L E B R A T I N G

January 2021 Volume 18, Issue 1 Ph: 657-2418 1 9

Y E A R S

O F

P U B L I S H I N G

P O S I T I V E

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

Nine-Year-Old Valrico Girl Wins Nationwide Contest For Chicken Poo Bingo Board Game

Durant National Honor Society Students Participate In Adopt-A-Road Clean-Up

Most 9-yearCooper uses a windup old girls are busy chicken she got in an trying to figure Easter basket that out school and waddles around the socialization in board and makes the age of quardeposits on the numantine. bers.

Cooper While Cooper has Dean of Valrico come up with other isn’t most girls. games, her recent Cooper, a camping trip and the third grader at timing of the contest Lithia Springs brought this one to Elementary fruition, which was a School, is waitthree-week project ing to see if a with her father’s help.

Cooper Dean, a third grader at Lithia game she “I have other Springs Elementary School, recently won a nationwide contest with her game, invented could ideas,” she said. “I Chicken Poo Bingo. soon end up on thought this would be store shelves for others to play too. fun for the family too.”

She recently won a nationwide Before the coronavirus cancelled a contest with her submission of lot of in-person gatherings, Jennifer Chicken Poo Bingo, a tabletop game said Cooper would have gone to New she came up with after seeing a realYork for a ceremony announcing her life depiction while camping. as the junior winner for the Best Game “The real version exists in many Concept, a category sponsored by campgrounds,” said Jennifer Dean, Goliath Games. Instead, she got to Cooper’s mother. “She thought it watch a virtual awards show with her would be fun to create a kids version family, celebrating with excited dancing at home.” and cheers alongside her 6-year-old After becoming aware of the brother, Brooks Dean.

People of Play’s annual Young While past winners of the contest, Inventor Challenge (YIC) through her which is open to kids 6-18 years of father, Ryan Dean, she set out to age, have seen their game concepts make the board and pieces for a funcbrought to market, it isn’t a given. But tional game. the possibility is there, with the The premise is for the chicken to process now including some fine tun‘poop’ out candy onto a master bingo ing. board and players try to fill up the “They might make it,” Jennifer squares on their card, just like in a said. “She has to come up with ways bingo hall. The winner gets candy, to make it better, to refine it, to make a which adds to the fun. perfect product.”

In the real-life version, chickens See Cooper’s YIC submission are enticed by players with feed to video at https://youtu.be/ocome to a square and ‘mark it’ while RM1oGntN4.

Despite which has restrictions on been dedicatclub meetings and ed to “proevents, Durant mot[ing] a culHigh School’s ture of envichapter of the ronmental National Honor stewardship Society (NHS) through volhas continued to unteer and Durant NHS students cleaned up Keysville Rd. as educational serve its commupart of Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful’s Adopt-A-Road nity by picking up opportunities” program. trash along since 1989.

Keysville Rd. through Keep Tampa Bay Its Adopt-A-Road program was designed Beautiful’s Adopt-A-Road program. to provide an opportunity for organiza“Adopt-A-Road is important to partici- tions and individuals to serve and prepate in because it helps to keep the road serve their community by keeping roads near our school clean and contributes to and parks clean and maintaining the the image we like to present at Durant,” appearance of the cities of Tampa, said Durant NHS Student President Temple Terrace and Hillsborough County.

Savannah Still.

For more information about the “We do a lot of different service Adopt-A-Road program, contact adopevents and basically just helping out the taroad@keeptbb.org or visit keeptamcommunity and making sure that the pabaybeautiful.org/adoptions. place we live is a beautiful and safe place,” Durant senior and NHS member Laura Newman added.

Durant’s chapter has 99 members who are required to perform at least two chapter events each semester. Each month, members have the option of signing up for the Adopt-A-Road event to fulfill the requirement, where students meet after school to collect trash off the road and uphold the National Honor Society pillars of scholarship, service, leadership and character.

“Participating in Adopt-A-Road fulfills all four pillars of NHS by demonstrating that the student balances extracurricular obligations while maintaining academic rigor, devotes time and effort into serving the community, practices leadership and is an example for other students,” reflect21 ed NHS member Karlie LeFor. In December 2020, 18 students met after school and walked a mile down Keysville Rd. in socially distanced groups SCOUTS BBQ FUNDRAISER ...............PG 4 to collect litter. After only an hour, Durant NHS students had gathered eight bags of Z0OMBALLYHOO...............................PG 8 trash, which were disposed of by NHS CUSTOM HAIR ................................PG 11 Advisor Eric Soule.

Durant adopted Keysville Rd. last EYE ON BUSINESS...........................PG 25 year through Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful,

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

By Bob Zoellner

INSIDE:

FOR LUNCH U & DINN NER

Postal Customer

ECRWSS EDDM Osprey Observer 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, FL 33596

By Lily Belcher

Happy r! a New Ye

3345 LITHIA PINECREST RD, VVAALRICO, FL 33596 | (813) 643-7777 Enter to win! The Osprey Observer has partnered with the Tampa YMCA to offer a 6-month family membership at the YMCA as a prize to a reader. Email contest@ospreyobserver.com with subject line YMCA for a chance to win! For info on memberships, visit https://www.tampaymca.org/.

WJFKICKSREST WWW W..JFKICKSREST W .JFKICKSRE EES TARA TA UR RAN RANT . M JFKI CKSRESTTA AURA UUR ANT T.NNT .CCOM ..COM CT.COM

Page 2

Valrico Edition

M

Volume 18, Issue 1

January 2021

Valrico Edition

Local Author Asley L. Mármol In Valrico Publishes Thriller Novel The Watchers

By Taylor Wells

Though we all live rich setting featuring in one world, somemany biblical, historical times it may feel like and geopolitical referwe’re living in comences, creating, he said, pletely different ones. “a story that moves you to In Asley L. Mármol’s go beyond your preconrecently published ceived notions of the novel, The Watchers, world and history.” readers and the charThe book explores acters can certainly sides of Cuba that the understand that feelAsley L. Mármol, a local author in author noted aren’t ing.

Valrico, and his latest novel, The touched on much in Watchers.

Mármol, a Valrico recent works, like its hisresident born in Cuba, released his tory with Judaism and links between novel in November 2020. The story folCuban and Venezuelan governments. It lows two separated brothers, Daniel and also shows how different people’s worlds Emanuel Coen, from Havana, Cuba, can be, and this is part of how the along with a mysterious, wealthy and author expands the limits of reality. very well-connected family known as “I like to play with reality to make it The Watchers. in a way so that, even though it’s surreDaniel, who left Havana for Miami al, it’s possible, but not necessarily real. many years ago with little to his name, is So, in other words, this world that he’s now a successful CEO of an investment all of a sudden involved with is never company. Meanwhile, Emanuel, a creseen in Havana for him,” said Mármol. ative genius skilled in researching and “The amount of power these people inventing who tends to get into trouble have in Cuba, it’s fabulous, and with authorities, still lives in Havana. But Emanuel is shocked because these peotheir worlds are soon rocked when The ple are unreal.”

Watchers take control of Emanuel, forcWhen reading the book, he hopes ing Daniel to go back to his old home to that it connects with people and shows help him. them more about Cuba, the situation Mármol began writing in Cuba as and history of Latin America and a whole the vice director of the literary magazine world that isn’t necessarily portrayed in Jácara, where he published his first mainstream media. book of poems. He started by writing To learn more about Mármol and his poetry, then short stories, essays and works or preview The Watchers, visit eventually novels. https://asleylmarmol.com/. To purchase The Watchers is Mármol’s first his book, visit thriller novel and his first novel written https://www.amazon.com/Watchersdirectly in English. It was written with a Asley-L-Marmol/dp/B08M83XC25/.

Page 3

Valrico Real Estate Team Combines Efforts To Support Hillsborough Education Foundation

By Gwen Rollings

The Kilene Kelly Group (KKG), Keller Williams Realty, in Valrico contributed much to the community this year. Its real estate team decided there was no better way to make a difference than to donate and support the Hillsborough Education Foundation (HEF).

Monetary donations were given from a fixed percentage of its real estate closings on a quarterly basis to HEF, which is currently $100 of every transaction— nearly 75 in 2020 and expected to be 120 in 2021.

There are also donations of its time, as each quarter the team volunteers at HEF for at least one day to help organize school supplies and get orders ready for teachers.

Samantha Hall, marketing director for the Kilene Kelly Group, said, “The second part to the Golden Apple Education Foundation is our Golden Apple Award.

Each month, we accept nominations of teachers from all over Hillsborough County. In the beginning of each month, we initially choose one Golden Apple Award winner. We have just expanded to highlight three Golden Apple Award winners each month: a teacher from an elementary, middle and high school. Once chosen, we physically bring teachers their awards alongside some goodies, supplies for their classrooms and donuts for the

entire teaching staff. As times are obviously different, the presentation can be virtual depending on the comfortability of the school and teachers.

We post to social media platforms and send out email campaigns in order to market this award.”

In addition to these donations, Hall said the team is also involved with local schools by sponsoring events, sporting programs such as the Bloomingdale High School’s Running of the Bulls 5K and, more recently, the football programs at both Bloomingdale and Newsome High Schools by purchasing pages in their Athletic Program Booklets.

The KKG team even enlisted Santa to help this Christmas. The annual Christmas party was cancelled due to safety concerns with COVID-19, but Santa was not cancelled. Hall said, “We started to think of ways to still use Santa and reach our clients this holiday season.

We decided to create a website where parents could submit kids’ names with what they wanted for Christmas. Santa personalized a video for each; videos were edited and sent out to the parents … all free of charge.”

The Kilene Kelly Group made the season and year bright for many Hillsborough County residents by sharing its time, talents and finances.

For more information, visit www.KileneKellyGroup.com.

Page 4

Valrico Edition

Scouts Host Annual Food Drive Feb. 6

Staff Report

Boy Scout troops in cern. Masks are to be the Greater Tampa Bay worn and social disArea Council are prepartancing practiced for ing for the 2021 Scouting both the hanger distrifor Food event, a nonperbution and food colishable food drive set to lection. begin in late January.

Eric Brown, a volScouting for Food unteer with Pack 61 in calls on thousands of Brandon, said his unit youth to collect essenis proud to participate Scouts of Pack 61 with their haul every year. He tials for local food banks from Scouting for Food 2020. across the region, from explained they ensure Feeding Tampa Bay to smaller local this is a family event by meeting at a cenpantries. Scouts will distribute door hangtral location, dividing into dens and ers to homes in their community to let sweeping the surrounding neighborhoods them know about the drive between to distribute the flyers. All food collected Saturday, January 23 and Friday,

by Pack 61 benefits a food bank operated February 5. On Saturday, February 6, by their host organization, St. Andrew’s Scouts will revisit those houses to pick up United Methodist Church. bags full of canned food, cereal, pasta, “I’ve had Scouts come up and thank peanut butter, juice and other items, us for opening their eyes to such a needy according to District Executive Kelsi cause,” Brown said. “They feel good and Meliah. proud that they are able to support the “Scouting for Food takes place in the community with health meals.” first two months of every year, and its To further incentivize participation, the success depends on the support of our council announced units participating in communities,” Meliah said. “Each year, the food drive can qualify for year-round we are overwhelmed by peoples’ willingfree camping on all Boy Scout properties ness to help in this project.” in the area. According to Field Director Meliah said Scouting for Food took Sharrod McCree, this project represents on special significance in 2020, as the the kind of cheerful service Scouting Council held a record-breaking drive only wants to encourage and reward in young weeks before COVID-19 was identified in boys and girls. the Tampa Bay Area. Scouts collected “After all, our Scouting for Food camalmost 37,000 pounds of food just in time paign is what Scouting is all about,” to meet heightened demand caused by McCree said. “It is embedded in the the pandemic and ensuing recession.

Scout Oath, ‘I will do my best to do my Scouting professionals advised units duty to God and my country, and to help that this year’s drive will be just as critical, other people at all times.’” but the safety of youth participants and For more information, contact Kyle their families remains a paramount conMolldene at 955-0860.

Volume 18, Issue 1

Troop 61 Hosts 3rd Annual Taste Of Scouting BBQ Event To Support Group Efforts

Staff Report

A group of go to the PCOB local scouts are to help pay for hoping you are building and hungry for BBQ grounds maintenext month. The nance and inciThird Annual dentals.

Taste of Scouting The church BBQ Fundraiser is the Troop’s will take place on charter organizaSaturday, tion, providing February 6 the the location for Presbyterian Church of its meetings and a great Bloomingdale (PCOB). support system, which in BBQ plates include turn helps the troop run a a choice of brisket, successful program,” said turkey or pulled pork Zelatis. with coleslaw, baked The second goal is to beans, a roll and a increase awareness in the drink. The cost is $15 community about scoutfor brisket and $12 for ing. turkey or pork. Orders “The Scouting procan be purchased in gram instills in our youth 3rd Annual advance or at the door “Taste of Scouting” BBQ the core values and prinwith prepaid pick up ciples of the Scout Oath between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and the Scout Law while having fun According to John P. Zelatis, motiexploring outdoors, learning new vation for the fundraiser is two-fold. things and preparing for the future,” “First, to help raise funds for our said Zelatis.

Scouting program and the The fundraiser will also feature fun Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale,” scouting activities such as knot tying, said Zelatis. “The funds will be utilized orienteering, fire building, Dutch oven to help lower scout dues and registracooking, camping, backpacking, first tion fees, purchase new/upgrade exist- aid and more. ing camping equipment, offset the cost To purchase tickets in advance, of summer camp, send scouts to visit https://troop61National Youth Leadership Training, 107596.square.site/. and provide scout families assistance The Presbyterian Church of through scholarships in case of finanBloomingdale is located at 710 E. cial hardships.”

Bloomingdale Ave. Visit www.pcob.us.

A portion of the proceeds will also Visit http://www.bstroop61.com/.

January 2021

Page 5

Valrico Edition

W W W

.

O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R

.

C O M

Hillsborough County Wins Green Building Award For LEED Initiatives

ASSOCIATED WITH OSPREY OBSERVER

7 2109 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, FL 33592 • (office) 657-2418 • (fax) 657-4469 MANAGING EDITOR

Marie Gilmore 657-2418

ASSIGNMENT EDITOR

Kate Quesada 657-2418

editor@ospreyobserver.com

kquesada@ospreyobserver.com

LAYOUT EDITOR

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Kathi Hayes

Kathy Collins

657-2418

657-2418

khayes@ospreyobserver.com

kcollins@ospreyobserver.com

BILLING MANAGER

GRAPHICS MANAGER

Terry Vassalotti

Denise Graf

terry@ospreyobserver.com

denise@ospreyobserver.com

657-2418

MARKETING MANAGER

Jennifer Hurst

657-2418

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Jenny Bennett 657-2418

657-2418

jbennettt@ospreyobserver.com

NEWS REPORTER

FOLLOW US:

jhurst@ospreyobserver.com

Taylor Wells 657-2418

twells@ospreyobserver.com

FISHHAWK/BLOOMINGDALE & VALRICO ADVERTISING

RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, & SOUTHSHORE ADVERTISING

Kerrie Hoening

Melissa Hartmann

kerrie@ospreyobserver.com

mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com

BRANDON & WINTHROP ADVERTISING

CHRISTIAN VOICE ADVERTISING

625-1527

Melody Gershkoff

833-7470

Hillsborough County has become the first county government in Florida and only the third county in the U.S. to achieve Platinum LEED for Cities and Communities certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. The designation recognizes years of hard work and initiatives to safeguard the environment and enhance the quality of life for Hillsborough’s residents, businesses and visitors.

The accomplishment is significant.

The Platinum designation is the highest rating that can be obtained in the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Cities and Communities program.

While LEED is the world’s most widely used green building rating system, the comprehensive Cities and Communities certification looks far beyond one area. The extensive process judges how well applicants integrate sustainability into all aspects of the community, including environmental stewardship, fiscal responsibility and overall community prosperity.

The review considered a wide range of areas, such as energy and water conservation, land use, solid waste management, community heritage preservation, cultural and recreational opportunities, social services, partnerships, equitability, innovative projects and more.

Hillsborough County’s application included five years of data and information provided with the support of a long list of county departments and community

Cammie Yick

300-5152

810-8106

mgershkoff@ospreyobserver.com

cyick@ospreyobserver.com

NEW, EXCITING TERMITE PRODUCTS!

Termidor 10 Year Guarantee

BRANDON TERMITE AND PEST CONTROL

Against Subterranean Termites

Karla Marie Carolan, J.D.

MEMBER WEST FLORIDA

Existing customers may purchase Termidor at an additional cost.

Call Brandon Exterminating for free estimate 685-7711

#1 Bug Muggers Since 1973

Brandon Pest Control, Inc.

Main Office: 108 S. St. Cloud Ave. • Valrico • Fax 685-3607 • 6am-6pm Clearwater-Lakeland-Orlando-Plant City- Carterville GA- Warner Robins, GA

As always, we are here for any legal support you may need and wish everyone good health.

Staff Report

groups.

Hillsborough County has implemented a vast array of sustainability initiatives, among them: The county reduces its energy use and costs by operating a chiller plant that makes ice to help cool buildings, adding solar to county facilities and using LED lighting in buildings, parking lots, sports fields and all traffic signals.

Neighborhood and corridor street lighting are transitioning to LED, in collaboration with TECO. The Resource Recovery Facility converts burnable waste into electricity, generating power for several nearby county facilities and approximately 35,000 homes. Reclaimed water is also used at the facility, and metals are salvaged.

The county’s Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program (ELAPP) is the largest local land preservation program in Florida, so far setting aside more than 65,000 acres, resulting in natural stormwater management, increased biodiversity, climate regulation, air pollution removal and passive recreational opportunities. The county also will receive nearly $1.5 million in revenue over the next seven years from carbon offsets provided through ELAPP preservation efforts.

Visit HCFLGov.net/Sustainability to learn more and to complete the sustainability survey. Click on the link for the ‘Community Sustainability Action Plan.’

Page 6

Volume 18, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

January Is National Blood Donor Month

By Libby Hopkins

January has been and working with local elecdesignated as National tion offices to have blood Blood Donor Month drives during the recent (NBDM) to encourage presidential election so we donors to give or pledge to could get donors to help give blood. First-time and us. We had to pivot quickly regular donors are encourbecause OneBlood serves aged to make a difference 250 hospitals in the in their communities by Southeast and that’s an giving blood every awesome responsibility January, and regularly that has to happen 24 thereafter. Blood is tradihours a day, seven days a tionally in short supply durweek.” ing the holidays, especial- January has been designated During NBDM, ly since the recent OneBlood also wants to as National Blood Donor Month to encourage donors encourage donors to COVID-19 pandemic. to give or pledge to give “National Blood Donor blood. First-time and regular donate convalescent plasMonth is going to take on ma to help those who are donors are encouraged to make a difference in their a new significance,” said infected with COVID-19 communities by giving blood Pat Michaels, Director of every January, and regularly virus. “We are currently Media and Public processing and distributing thereafter. Blood is traditionally in short supply convalescent to hospitals,” Relations for OneBlood. during the holidays, especially “Last year the blood censince the recent COVID-19 Michaels. “We also do the ters around the states had testing for COVID antibodpandemic. radical changes in their processes due to ies. Doing this helped us regain donors.

COVID. Blood drives by the thousands We had people come in and donate who had to be cancelled, which lead to the have never donated before in their lives.” need for blood to increase dramatically.”

Michaels hopes that people will come OneBlood relies heavily on local out for NBDM and help OneBlood by blood drives to replenish their blood supdonating blood or convalescent plasma. plies. With the pandemic forcing busi“We hope National Blood Donor Month nesses, high schools and universities to will make a strong impact this year,” shut down, their supplies dwindled. “We Michaels said. “Now more than ever, we rely on corporate blood drives and other need blood donations and convalescent local blood drives,” Michaels said. donations. All it takes is a little bit of your “Twenty percent of our blood supplies time to save lives.” comes from blood drives held at local If you would like to learn more about high schools and college campuses. That National Blood Donor Month or if you was a massive drop immediately. We had would like to donate blood or convalesto regroup and restructure how we do cent plasma, you can visit OneBlood’s blood drive. We started going to HOA’s website at www.oneblood.org.

Expiration 02/01 /2021

Galactic Playgrounds Science Center Opens In New Brandon Location Off Of S.R. 60

By Libby Hopkins

Galactic Playgrounds Interactive Science Center has become a part of our community. It is the brainchild of Greg Mendolia.

“Galactic Playgrounds is a science center for kids of all ages,” Mendolia said. “We offer hands-on excitement with exhibits powered by children, so they get exercise, S.T.E.A.M. (Science Technology Engineering Arts Math) learning and fun all at once. Our interactive science center is sure to excite and educate your kids. All exhibits run on kid power, so they can exercise while enjoying an immersive educational atmosphere.”

Mendolia is originally from New England and he his family came to Florida to get out of the cold weather.

His children liked the local children’s attractions like MOSI and Glazer Children’s Museum, but wanted something more to stretch their minds and imaginations. “We visited different areas of Florida, but we found that Tampa was more family-oriented,” Mendolia said. “We started to look for what area of Tampa would be a good fit for our concept and Brandon is the epicenter of families with children, so Brandon was our choice to open Galactic Playgrounds Interactive Science Center.”

The center has quite a lot to offer families from our community. Visitors can relax and enjoy astronomy videos

Expiration 02/01 /2021

on the center’s 14-foottall Planetariumlike screens.

“We have a large variety of interactive science exhibits demonstrating magnetism, hydro forces, electric power, kinetic energy, high voltage static generators and gas plasma effects,” Mendolia said.

“And you can let your little scientist chill out for a bit and paint using our new Buddha boards.”

Before opening Galactic Playground Interactive Science Center, Mendolia made renovations to ensure the building was COVID-safe for families. “We installed a special new HVAC with five times more outside air, which blows COVID away,” Mendolia said.

“Plus we have 8,500 square feet of space for easy social distancing.

Families can rent our entire place.”

Some of the attractions offered at the center are Water World features all things water, allowing kids’ energy to power cool water exhibits. Children will be able to create amazing water cyclones powered in two different ways by operating water pumps, or by powering electric motors. There is also a water elevator utilizing the principles of the famous scientist Archimedes. Visit www.galacticplaygrounds.com or call 315-9478. The center, located at 1041 West Brandon Blvd., is open Mon-Fri from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Expiration 02/01 /2021

January 2021

Page 7

Valrico Edition

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Offers Support To Local Families

By Libby Hopkins

One local support group is finding we had waited so long to have was not innovative ways to raise funds during the the son I was going to take home. I think I pandemic. cried for three months straight, it was like Families, Respect, Inspire, Educati I was grieving the loss of my baby, not on, Networking for Down Syndrome celebrating him. When we arrived home I and Special Needs had no idea what (F.R.I.E.N.D.S.) is a to do.” volunteer-based Foyt realized nonprofit that was she needed to founded in 2007 by become an advoparents of children cate for her son, with Down synand that is when drome. The group’s she joined motto is “I can and I F.R.I.E.N.D.S. will,” and President “It was run Ann Foyt is the drivby a small ing force behind this group of parFamilies, Respect, Inspire, motto. ents who got Education, Networking “I love helping together to lisfor Down Syndrome and Special Needs (F.R.I.E.N.D.S.) is a ten to a speaker and then new parents,” Foyt volunteer-based; non-profit. said. “We have a go out to dinner afterF.R.I.E.N.D.S. Parent Packet that we wards,” Foyt said. “The woman running assemble with resource information, was ready to hand the responsibility over brochures from other agencies and the to someone else and when I told her I book, Babies with Down Syndrome: a would take it over she handed me a box Parents’ Guide. We sent out over 150 of papers and told the others I was now packets this year to new families, to president.”

Brandon Hospital, St. Joseph’s Women’s, It wasn’t easy, but Foyt turned the litSt. Joseph’s Children’s, Tampa General tle nonprofit into a thriving organization and Mease Countryside. The hospitals that helps families who have children with distribute the packets to parents for us.”

Down syndrome.

Foyt has lived in the Brandon area “We have programs for our commufor more than 20 years and has been a nity with our monthly Baby Friends, adult nurse for 25 years. Her son, Zachary, dances, arts and crafts, family game night was born in 1998. and parent support group meetings in “We did not know he had Down synHillsborough and Pinellas,” Foyt said. drome until the doctor in the operating “With [the] pandemic, all of our programs room announced to the entire room, ‘Mr. stopped.” and Mrs. Foyt, your son has Down synTo learn more about F.R.I.E.N.D.S., drome.’ The room got extremely quiet; all visit www.fdswf.org or contact Foyt at you could hear was me crying. The son 245-2782.

New President Of Hillsborough Community College Brandon Campus Selected

Staff Report

Dr. Deborah Kish demic dean and graduate Johansen has been and undergraduate faculselected to join ty. She also has legal and Hillsborough Community government experience, College (HCC) as the having served in positions Brandon Campus presiof corporate and governdent. A committee comment legal counsel. prised of HCC faculty, Noted as a compasstaff, administrators and sionate and inspiring community representateam leader, Dr. Kish tives conducted a nationJohansen plans to bring a wide search for qualified tremendous passion for candidates, narrowing student success to both down the list through sevthe college and the eral rounds of interviews and open campus forums Dr. Deborah Kish Johansen for the final four candiis the next HCC Brandon Campus president. dates. HCC President Dr. Ken Atwater made the final selection, Brandon which was approved by the district board communiof trustees at its December 9 meeting. ty.

“Along with the positive campus feed“It is a back and her impeccable references, Dr. profound honor to be selected to Kish Johansen impressed me with her serve as the next president of the desire to foster a collaborative environBrandon Campus and join Hillsborough ment of learning and growth sustained by Community College,” said Dr. Kish assessment, support and inquiry at the Johansen. “The Brandon Campus serves Brandon Campus,” Dr. Atwater said. “I am as a vital educational and economic conconfident that her energy and enthusiasm duit for individuals and the Greater Tampa for the students, faculty and staff at the Bay area. I am eager to immerse myself campus will bring forth a period of renew- in the Brandon area and continue to build al and put the campus on a positive traan outstanding educational opportunity to jectory forward.” the growing community.”

With more than two decades in comHillsborough Community College bined higher education administration and serves more than 47,000 students annufaculty experience, Dr. Kish Johansen’s ally at its five campuses located throughextensive professional background out Tampa Bay. The college is accredited includes holding the positions of vice by the Southern Association of Colleges president of academic affairs, chief acaand Schools Commission on Colleges. demic officer, chief operating officer, acaFor more information, visit hccfl.edu.

Assisted Living

Happy

“Tessera Brandon... living your lifestyle.”

• Active contemporary style living • Spacious apartments • All day dining from 7am to 7pm with a bountiful variety of choices • Pet friendly • Educational and social opportunities • Cable and Wi-Fi included • Live entertainment from Bach to Big Band • “Wine Down” Wednesdays Assisted Living Facility #AL13150

New Year!

Providing exceptional care and fun activities during this time and always.

Memory Care

“Living the present... cherishing the past.”

Customized Gift Certificates Available

B

Boulevard SALON

210 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon

813.571.5800

(813) 607-6880

Located in the heart of Brandon close to I75, Hwy 60 and Hwy 301

boulevardsalon210.com

Internationally Trained Staff Color Specialists Straightening Systems Complete Nail & Pedicure Services Advanced Skin Care (Microblading, Microneedling, Micro-derm, Peels, 4 Layer Facelift) Body Waxing Massage Therapy Permanent Make-up Farm House Fresh Boutique Items

Experience the Difference! boulevardsalon210 #MM27421 / #MA29471

Page 8

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 1

Physical Therapist Cosi Belloso Is Educating, Informing And Empowering Amputees

Bring Some Fun To Virtual Meetings, Parties & Events With ZoomBallyhoo

Eighteen years ago, tions that should have physical therapist and been answered by their now Brandon resident clinicians.”

Cosi Belloso was She posted live assigned the amputee videos to establish credirotation at Jackson bility and form connecMemorial Hospital in tions with the members of Miami because she “was online support groups, the low man on the totem which she transferred to pole and got stuck with her own website and the amputee rotation that Physical therapist Cosi Belloso Facebook page. is the founder and host of Cosi nobody wanted.” During “The mission of my Talks, a weekly show featuring her rotation, she met her show is to educate, amputees and doctors to help members of the limb loss mentor, Paul Kleponis, inform and empower,” community. the senior physical therasaid Belloso. “There’s so pist at Jackson Memorial Hospital. much out there that people need to learn “[He] was just an amazing mentor when they become an amputee and it’s and he just taught me everything I know,” very overwhelming.”

Belloso said when explaining her introOn each weekly Cosi Talks episode, duction to amputee physical therapy. “It’s Belloso features different aspects of being kind of hard not to [become passionate an amputee, such as rehabilitation, medabout helping amputees] when you are ications or prosthetics. being mentored by someone who is so While many of her guests are from passionate about what they do.” her local community, Belloso has featured After working at Tampa General athletes, such as the first WWE amputee Hospital and Fusion HealthCare, Belloso wrestler, Zachary Gowen, and two-time opened her own practice, Palanca PT, world champion bilateral amputee drag and created Cosi Talks, a website dedimotorcycle racer Reggie Showers. cated to educating patients and careVeterans and bomb survivors have also givers on prosthetics and exercises for made appearances on Cosi Talks, includnew amputees. ing Sergeant First Class Daniel Metzdorf, Belloso first attracted an online audiwho was a member of the Golden ence to Cosi Talks three years ago, Knights and the first above-the-knee where she hosts live shows with doctors amputee to return to active duty with the and patients to discuss issues amputees 82nd Airborne Division. face. She recognized a need for a physiVisit cositalks.com or watch Belloso’s cal therapist specializing in amputee live show every Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. patients after visiting online support on her Facebook page. To contact groups on Facebook where “many Belloso, call 907-0430 or email amputees were asking very basic quescosi@cositalks.com.

The year 2020 will How ZoomBallyhoo be remembered as the works is you pick your year of the Zoom meetBallyhoo, which is a ings thanks to the clown, magician or ringCOVID-19 pandemic. master. You then pick a I’m sure we’ve lost date, time and length of count on how many your Zoom call. Once Zoom meetings or calls your payment is we attended over the received, you can enjoy last year because they your ZoomBallyhoo.

ZoomBallyhoo is an Orlando-based “Our clowns and magiall seemed to be the company that is on a mission to same, not very lively or cians seem to tie for our make Zoom calls more fun and entertaining. clients’ favorite,” Gorton entertaining by having circus performers, clowns and magicians said. “Both have humor ZoomBallyhoo is perform during a Zoom call. an Orlando-based comat the heart of their perpany that is on a mission to make Zoom formances. Some people just want to calls more fun and entertaining by having laugh and hear stories of circus life from circus performers, clowns and magicians our clowns and some want to have magic perform during a Zoom call. happen before their eyes. In each case, “ZoomBallyhoo was a creation from our 30-minute package seems to fulfill Odd-o-Ts’ Entertainment born during a their quest for fun.” time when live performance wasn’t safe Gorton hopes their entertainers can to engage in,” said ZoomBallyhoo’s Amy one day go back to performing live and Gorton. “Our performers were all former in-person, but until then, this gives them circus artists who had been entertaining an outlet for their craft. “We look forward in theme parks, theaters and tours since to that day, but we feel that this experithe Ringling Bros. Circus closed. Once ence can live beyond that day,” Gorton the pandemic hit, the founders got togeth- said. “It will be a while for everyone to feel er and decided to create a platform to safe to venture out again and we know keep those performers bringing the magic that we can provide some joy and light to audiences around the country virtually during these dark times. However, ultiinto their own homes.” mately we also think that this is a fun way Entertainment is one of the hardest for distant friends and family members to hit industries by the pandemic along with get together with a fun activity that can hospitality, travel and tourism. “Performers extend beyond the stay-at-home time and are in the industry for more than just a provide a different stage that we can conpaycheck,” Gorton said. “Connecting with tinue to entertain.” audiences is what feeds their creative To learn more about ZoomBallyhoo, souls and so it affects more than just their visit www.zoomballyhoo.com or call income.”

Gorton at 310-578-9943.

By Lily Belcher

By Libby Hopkins

January 2021

Valrico Edition

Page 9

Management District Answers Water Questions And Offers Data Access

HCA Healthcare Offers Antibody Treatments At Brandon Regional

Have you ever been features of the aquifer. interested in how much Staff collects geologic rain fell in your neighbordata from land surface to hood after a summer approximately 3,000 feet storm? Or how high the below using a coring rig water levels are at the and that data is collected lake where you launch from the core holes to your boat? The gain an understanding of Southwest Florida Water the aquifer’s characterisManagement District tics. Geologists study this (District) collects all that information and use it to data and more. And what construct wells to moniyou might not know is all tor each aquifer. District that data is easily availstaff also collect atmosable to the public. pheric data from rain Sandie Will is the Data District Data Collection Collection Bureau chief for the gauges and water level Southwest Florida Water Bureau Chief Sandie and water quality data Management District.

Will explained how data from groundwater and is collected and why it’s important. surface water sites, including lakes, Q: What types of data does the rivers, wells and springs.

District collect?

Q: How many data collection sites A: The District oversees, collects does the District monitor? and analyzes numerous data for longA: The District monitors water levels term monitoring trends and specific proj- at more than 1,600 well sites and more ects. Staff members collect data, includthan 800 surface water sites throughout ing water levels, water quality, atmosthe region. pheric, topographical survey, hydraulic The District staff monitor rainfall and geologic data, following applicable at 170 sites; collect water quality samstate and federal guidelines. District sciples from 82 spring sites, 226 surface entists conduct water quality analyses in water sites and 524 wells; and evalua certified laboratory and primarily test ate data collection at monitoring sites for chloride, sulfate and total dissolved every three years, and those sites that solids. are no longer needed are discontinued.

Q: How does the District collect Q: Can the public see the District’s data? data collection?

A: The District collects data from A: Yes, all of the data collected and monitor wells, springs, rain gauges and mapped is available for download from surface water bodies throughout the 16the District’s Data and Maps website county region. The District collects under the Resources tab on the District’s hydraulic data to understand specific main webpage at WaterMatters.org.

HCA Healthcare heart disease. For chilWest Florida is now dren over the age of 12, offering sickle cell disease, neuBamlanivimab antirodevelopmental disorbody infusions at ders and asthma are Brandon Regional also among several Hospital and three additional consideraother local hospitals tions for eligibility. to nonhospitalized “We’re committed to patients who have providing our patients, tested positive for caregivers and the comCOVID-19 and have munities we serve with other high-risk facthe latest treatments in tors.

St. Petersburg General Hospital’s the fight against Kandice Williams, RN (right) and “This is an outCOVID-19 and are patient antibody infu- Vinson Huynh, MD (left) successfully excited to bring this performed HCA Healthcare West sion that has Florida’s first monoclonal antibody option to our four differtherapy on patient Harry for the received emergency ent geographic areas early treatment of COVID-19. use authorization along Florida’s west (EUA) from the Food and Drug coast,” said Dr. Larry Feinman, chief Administration (FDA) for nonhospitalized medical officer for HCA West Florida. patients, ages 12 and older, who have “The four locations will support all of our tested positive for COVID-19, have mild local hospitals in working closely with to moderate COVID-19 symptoms and physicians and other providers across are at high risk for developing severe the communities we serve to provide COVID-19,” said Debra McKell of HCA treatment to patients who may benefit, West Florida. per FDA guidelines.”

The first patient received the treatPatients with any of the following ment on December 9, 2020 at St. are not to receive this treatment per the Petersburg General Hospital. In addition FDA EUA guidelines: hospitalized due to Brandon Regional Hospital, particito COVID-19, require oxygen therapy pating locations include Blake Medical due to COVID-19 or require oxygen due Center in Manatee County, St. to another underlying medical condition.

Petersburg General Hospital in Pinellas “We encourage patients to discuss this County, and Medical Center of Trinity in treatment option with their physician,” Pasco County.

McKell said. “Also, Brandon Regional High-risk conditions that may be eli- Hospital is providing the treatment for gible for this treatment include obesity, children ages 12 and older.” chronic kidney disease, COPD, diaPatients may contact Brandon betes, immunosuppressive disease and Regional Hospital at 916-1581.

Staff Report

$500 OFF

By Libby Hopkins

Breast Augmentation Newly scheduled surgeries only.

Must mention Osprey Observer special.

Stanley A. Castor, M.D., FACS

813.971.2000

Breast Augmentation Mommy Makeover Breast Lift Liposuction Tummy Tuck Buttocks Lift Eyelid Surgery/Browlift Facelift Skin Tightening Dermal Fillers Laser Hair Removal Botox/Dysport Renuvion Skin Tightening

Page 10

Volume 18, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

DAR Celebrates Hope For Her Founder With Annual Community Service Award

New Executive Director Takes Over At Outreach Free Clinic And Resource Center In Brandon

Earlier this lies have had month, the Alafia their lives River Chapter of the restored since National Society Hope for Her Daughters of the opened their American doors.

Revolution (DAR), Alafia River presented the Chapter DAR group’s annual Community Community Service Service Award to Cheryl Chairman Hicks, founder and Glenda Thurow Community Service Award, pictured left to executive director awarded the right: Cathleen LaVigne, chapter regent; of Hope for Her. Cecilia Murray, treasurer; Cheryl Hicks founder DAR Hope for Her, a and executive director of Hope for Her; Glenda Community local nonprofit, sup- Thurow, Community Service Award chairman; Service Award and Jen Gerken, Women’s Issues chairman. ports women expe- (Masks were worn during the presentation and pin and a certifiriencing crisis and cate to Hicks for only removed briefly for the photo.) trauma by providing her service to essentials such as housing, the community. Each childcare, food, clothing and year, this committee more to address the needs searches for outstanding of these women and their community members to children. Hope for Her recognize and thank for works one-on-one with their service to our local women to restore their concommunity. fidence and self-worth by identifying DAR is a nonprofit, nonpolitical, volneeds, creating plans to address them unteer women’s service organization with and staying with the families for as long over 185,000 members in 3,000 chapters as needed. across the world. Any woman age 18 Cheryl Hicks opened this important years and older—regardless of race, relicenter for women in 2003. In its very first gion or ethnic background—who can year, Hope for Her and the dedicated prove her lineal descent from patriots of team of volunteers assisted 100 women the American Revolution is eligible to join and their families who had nowhere else the DAR. to turn. Last year, over 300 women found If you are interested in learning more employment through its program, 1,200 about the Alafia River Chapter of the women received one-on-one support and National Society Daughters of the the center received over 3,600 calls for American Revolution, help and support. More than 45,000 fami- email ARCRegistrar201921@gmail.com.

Allison Alvarez 18 years as executive Hedrick became the new director. executive director of The Brandon High Outreach Free Clinic and School and University of Resource Center, located North Carolina at at 517 N. Parsons Ave. in Pembroke graduate brings Brandon, in October, but years of experience in she is not unfamiliar to that marketing, communication, area nor how important an public relations and nonoutreach free clinic is to profit affiliations with organmany hardworking famiizations like The Leukemia lies. and Lymphoma Society Hedrick said, “I grew (LLS), Largo Cultural up in Brandon, just a Center and Suncoast Girl Allison Alvarez Hedrick takes street over from where over as executive director of Scout Council. Prior to Outreach Free Clinic and the Outreach Free Clinic and becoming executive direcResource Center in Brandon. tor, she was vice president Resource Center is now.

Even as a kid, I recall what a challenge it of communications with WEDU PBS. was when someone in the family needed Hedrick expressed her first goal to see a doctor. While my parents both would be raising awareness for worked—Mom worked in restaurants and Hillsborough County residents that Dad owned a small sports bar and grill— Outreach Free Clinic and Resource we didn’t have health insurance or much Center is a volunteer-driven, nonprofit, disposable income. Without a resource nongovernment medical facility providing like Outreach Free Clinic and Resource primary healthcare at no cost to those Center, doctor visits were paid for in who do not qualify for government assiscash—a significant hardship for a family tance and who cannot afford private medliving paycheck to paycheck and without ical care. sick time to also cover missing work. I Her second priority is to expand supwould always feel so guilty if I needed to port from volunteers, medical providers, go to the doctor, knowing it would cost donors and corporate partnerships. money not just for the visit, but also any Although patients receive care from prescriptions that might be needed. No licensed doctors, nurse practitioners and one should experience obstacles to getmedical residents who donate their time, ting medical care or feel guilty about takthe clinic relies on individual donations ing care of their health.” and community partnerships to maintain Hedrick’s empathy, education and services to the community. experience make her uniquely qualified to To learn more about the Outreach replace Deborah Meegan, who officially Clinic, visit www.theoutreachclinic.com or retired on December 17 after more than call 654-1388.

Staff Report

By Gwen Rollings

FREE

CONSULTATIONS

BRANDON

Braces & Invisalign

for Children & Adults

401 S. Parsons Ave. Unit A, Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 654-6310

RIVERVIEW

11906 Boyette Road Riverview, FL 33569 (813) 378-3748

January 2021

Page 11

Valrico Edition

Living In COVID: Performing Virtually & Finding Success On Twitch TV

Custom Hair Helps Customers Regain Confidence Due To All Conditions Of Loss

The recent paner live everyday to demic has caused chat, interact and the creative to make their own become more creentertainment ative. Artists and together. “More musicians have and more musiturned to virtual platcians are moving forms like Twitch and to Twitch because Virtual Tip Jar to of the pandemic continue performing, and needing an just not to a live outlet to do our audience, but a vircraft,” Legner said.

Like many other local musicians, Julie tual one. “I went Legner of Valrico needed to find a way “We can’t play out to continue performing and earn a living in public where a with Twitch TV and during the pandemic. it’s owned by person can tip you Amazon,” said Julie Legner of Valrico. in-person, so the virtual shows and “My handle is ThatPianoChick, all as tipping are the best for us. Twitch is one word, and it’s a little bit like a geared more for musicians, whereas Facebook live show, but it’s way more Facebook is more social. We are here positive and interactive, as well as to entertain and not have a political being more geared toward musicians discussion. We rarely talk about the to make more money.” Legner is also pandemic on Twitch, we are there to one half of a local music group, The have a good time and so is our audiWonder Twins. ence.”

The way musicians make more Performing virtually has even money on Twitch TV is by becoming increased Legner’s fanbase. “I have an affiliate. “You can join and you definitely gotten more people followdon’t have to become an affiliate,” ing me and watching my performancLegner said. “You create your es online since the pandemic,” account and they have three different Legner said. “Because of Twitch, I goals you have to meet if you want to now have friends all over the world become an affiliate. Once you meet and I also log on and watch their your goals, you fill out a W-9 and shows as well. It’s great to still have then link your account for a direct an opportunity to do what I love, even deposit payment when people tip you if it’s virtually.” money virtually while watching your If you would like to check out show.” some of Legner’s Twitch videos or Gamers mostly used Twitch when catch her performing virtually, you can it started back in 2011. Now, Twitch is visit her Twitch page at where millions of people come togeth- http://twitch.tv/ThatPianoChick.

Things often the surgical-grade get ‘hairy’ at adhesive that holds Custom Hair Tampa the hair in place for Bay, but for this four to six weeks. business that’s pre“Wake up cisely the goal. every morning with Owned by Dan hair,” said Lori. and Lori Younkman, “Wash it, swim with Custom Hair Tampa it and just live your Bay offers nonsurgilife.” cal solutions for Her favorite men and women part of the process with hair loss as a Owned by Dan and Lori Younkman, Custom is when the hair Hair Tampa Bay offers nonsurgical solutions system comes in result of male and for men and women with hair loss. female-pattern baldand customers see ness, chemotherapy, transplants and the total transformation. burn scars, alopecia, autoimmune disFor Apollo Beach resident Jim Klein, eases and other hair loss conditions. his new hair has given him increased Located at 117 N. Kings Ave. in self-confidence. “I have the hair I used to Brandon, solutions the Younkmans offer have and look so much younger,” he include 100 percent Remy human hair said. wigs, toppers and custom hair solutions Brandon resident and longtime cusfor men and women. Expert staff memtomer Susan Saylors, whose hair started bers are available to assist clients in thinning as a result of lupus, echoed Klein choosing from its selection of wigs or one about the increased self-confidence from of its hair systems. her hair replacement system.

“We’re here to advise you every step “Stylists at Custom Hair have given of the way and walk you through the me long hair, shorter hair, have changed entire process,” said Lori, who is not just the color,” said Saylors. “What’s great is the owner but also a customer. She it’s such a high quality that nobody knows understands exactly how a thick head of it’s not my own hair unless I tell them.” hair can restore confidence.

Custom Hair Tampa Bay has been Customers meet with technicians in helping customers enjoy long, thick and private consultation rooms, where their healthy hair worthy of a Pantene comheads are measured, hair color and texmercial for more than 50 years. ture are matched and hair systems are Custom Hair Tampa Bay is open created to make each person look their Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and best.

Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Hair replacement systems are lightFor more information, visit www.cusweight, breathable and secure, thanks to tomhairtampabay.com or call 651-9484.

By Libby Hopkins

By Michelle Caceres

Plans Start at

$70 per month

Watchmaker

We can help you explore all your options, and find you the best plan for your needs and budget!

CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE!

813-689-8800

www.hst-brandon.com

and Jewelers On Site

c M Auley Fine Jewelry Open Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-4

813-689-8124 Oakfield Drive, Brandon

(Located in the Atlantic Village Plaza, Kings Avenue & Oakfield Drive)

Page 12

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 1

Superintendent Davis Selects Educators For Teacher Advisory Council

Bridges Dental Opens New State-Of-The-Art Office In Prime River Hills Location

School the problem or an Superintendent accomplice to the Addison Davis has solution,” she said. “I selected a talented choose the latter.” group of 50 highly She was thrilled qualified educators when she found out to serve on his she was selected as inaugural a board member and Superintendent’s looks forward to servTeacher Advisory ing with her fellow Council (STAC).

Hillsborough County Superintendent Davis of Hillsborough The purpose educators.

County Public Schools has selected of the council is to outstanding educators to be members of “In my mind, the the Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory council lends itself to provide an imporCouncil (STAC). tant voice for collective decisionteachers in the district’s decision-makmaking where we can think aloud, ing process and to provide the superinbrainstorm options, consider alternatendent with insights, suggestions and tives, evaluate risks and share our perspectives on critical educational opinions freely,” she said. “The diversity issues. The STAC, which is comprised on the council will offer Mr. Davis a of teachers from all grade levels, will wealth of information for a fresh enable better educational and adminisapproach to solving, not just pondering, trative decisions that will ultimately lead problems and improving performance.” to creating a positive working environThe council will meet monthly with ment and a safe and nurturing learning Superintendent Davis to discuss issues environment for students. relating to diverse academic experiCommittee members, who serve a ences, student support services, school seven-month term, include local school- culture, fair and consistent discipline teachers Lori Beth Bradner, an AVID and other factors that impact schools. coordinator at Randall Middle School, “I am excited to begin this collaboand Jon Sever, a music teacher at rative process to identify our strengths Bloomingdale High School. Teachers and areas of opportunity,” said superinwere selected after an application tendent Davis. “On the council are pheprocess that included an online applica- nomenal educators who will provide tion and, for some, an in-person interfresh perspectives that will help shape view. the future of the district.”

Bradner, who is in her fifth year at For more information about the Randall, was inspired to apply after Teacher Advisory Council or the School watching a video about the council and District of Hillsborough County, visit its purpose. “In life, we can be part of www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

Brad and Even though Laura Bridges, the location has owners of changed, the Bridges Dental, patient care has thought they continued to were crazy for remain top-notch. buying an office “My wife Dr. building Bridges’ care and during skill as a dentist the are unsurpassed,” height of he said. the A testament COVIDto that is her The staff at Bridges Dental is serving patients at its new location at 4316 New River Hills being selected as 19 pandemic.

Pkwy. in Valrico.

That deciTampa Bay sion turned out being the smartest Magazine’s Top Dentist for 2020, her thing they ever did. fourth year earning the distinction.

Six weeks after they closed on the Dr. Bridges earned a degree in property, on June 30, 2020, a fire devbiomedical science from USF and astated their dental practice in received her DMD degree from the Erindale Plaza, where the practice had University of Florida’s College of been in business for 27 years.

Dentistry. Her staff includes three full“The office alarm went off because time hygienists and three office assisit detected motion,” said Brad. All tants. looked quiet upon driving to the Bridges Dental offers a variety of office…until he opened the door. “The services, including crowns, root canal, smoke just rushed out,” he said. “Our bridges, fillings, cosmetic dentistry, office was a total loss.” veneers, teeth whitening and gum That’s when the decision to purtreatment using the latest technology chase the new building was seen in a to make the patient experience as different light. “Sometimes it’s better to comfortable as possible. be lucky than smart,” he joked.

Bridges Dental’s new office, locatThe 5,000-square-foot office is ed at 4316 New River Hills Pkwy, is bright and airy, featuring 10 operatoopen Monday to Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 ries and a new state-of-the-art equipp.m. The office is currently accepting ment. Windows in every room bring new patients; most dental PPOs are plenty of natural light to every room. accepted.

“I think the new location only For more information about improves the patient experience,” said Bridges Dental, visit www.bridgesdenBrad. tal.com or call 654-3399.

By Michelle Caceres

By Michelle Caceres

January 2021

Page 13

Valrico Edition

After 10 Month Closure, Give Kids The World Village Reopens To Wish Families

Staff Report

Give Kids The The World have given World Village in clear guidance on the Kissimmee, has scale and staging of announced that it will reopening, masking, be reopening to Wish social distancing, handfamilies this month, washing, food service, nearly 10 months from facilities cleaning, crowd the day that it closed management and transdue to the COVID-19 portation, and Give Kids Give Kids The World Village In pandemic.

The World has impleKissimee grants wish trips.

The 89-acre nonmented all of these profit resort provides transformative recommendations. weeklong Wish vacations to critically ill Reviewing the children and their families from around reopening preparathe world at no cost – with more than tions at Give Kids The 176,000 families served since 1986.

World, we are confiSince mid-March, the wishes of more dent that medically complex children and than 6,000 critically ill children have been their families can safely visit the Village,” postponed due to the closure. said Dr. Alexander.

With safety as its number one priority, Give Kids The World President and Give Kids The World Village will be taking CEO Pam Landwirth said, “We are a thoughtful, phased approach to reopen- thrilled to be getting back to our mission ing, beginning with a limited number of of spreading joy and creating the happifamilies and gradually growing its occuness that inspires hope for critically ill chilpancy over time. The decision to reopen dren and their families through magical has been made with the full support of stays in our storybook Village.” the Village’s longtime theme park partDuring normal operations, Give Kids ners, Walt Disney World Resort, The World relies on the compassion and Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld, kindness of more than 1,800 volunteers and after careful consultation with the each week to fulfill its charitable mission infectious disease experts at Nemours in support of critically ill children and their Children’s Hospital. Nemours Children’s families. Rated Four Stars by Charity Hospital experts led by pediatric infectious Navigator – with 90 cents of every dollar disease clinician and researcher Kenneth donated going directly to program servicA. Alexander, MD, PhD, also worked es, Give Kids The World Village was creclosely with Give Kids The World to ated by Holocaust survivor Henri develop the nonprofit’s comprehensive Landwirth with the goal of never turning a COVID-19 safety plan, which has been in wish child away. The Village will celebrate effect since March. its 35th anniversary on March 7.

“Experts consulting with Give Kids Visit www.gktw.org.

First Tee - Tampa Bay Awarded Grant To Advance Racial Equality In Community First Tee - Tampa Bay, a Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA program, is pleased to accept a generous $100,000 grant from the United Services Automobile Association (USAA) to help advance racial equality in Tampa Bay. Thanks to USAA’s generosity, First Tee Tampa Bay will be able to provide free golf lessons to 600 minority students in Title I schools throughout Hillsborough County. The grant will also enable First Tee - Tampa Bay to offer 80 golf tournament scholarships and five college scholarships to minority students.

“The goal is to eliminate cost as an obstacle for any children from these specific schools and get them involved in our program,” says Ian Baxter, executive director of First Tee - Tampa Bay. “We are extremely appreciative to USAA for their generosity, which will introduce the game of golf to more children by removing any financial barriers.”

Officially formed in 1999, First Tee Tampa Bay provides more than 80,000 children each year with hands-on, interactive golf experiences along with introducing them to First Tee’s Nine Core Values.

Besides being a program of the Tampa YMCA, First Tee - Tampa Bay also partners with community members such as the Tampa Sports Authority, the City of Tampa and various golf facilities to offer year-round programming for kids and

Staff Report

teens.

“At First Tee Tampa Bay, we do not just teach golf, we teach life skills,” said Ian. “Our program uses the game of golf to provide young people with the chance to develop life-enhancing values like confidence, perseverance and judgment and a series of life skills such as goal-setting, meeting new people and staying healthy.”

Whether through programs in 175+ Hillsborough County Public Schools, after-school programs at several local courses or week-long summer camp experiences, First Tee - Tampa Bay shows children that golf is more than a game—it’s an opportunity to become the very best they can be.

For more information, visit www.firstteetampabay.org or call First Tee - Tampa Bay at 238-7320.

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is a cause-driven four-star charity, strengthening Hillsborough and East Pasco communities for 132 years through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the association, 18 facilities engage nearly 224,000 men, women and children—regardless of age, income or background—to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve our community’s health and wellbeing and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. For more information, visit www.tampaymca.org.

CUSTOM HAIR For the hair you’ve always wanted!

Lori, • Human Hair & Synthetic Hair Wigs Owner & Client • Permanent, Non-Surgical Options Since 1969 • Chemotherapy & Alopecia Specialists • Largest selection in Tampa Bay • Also offering sales & service of all MEN’S hair systems FREE CONSULTATION! PLEASE CALL.

CustomHairTampaBay.com BRANDON (813) 651-9484 117 N. Kings Ave

CLEARWATER (727) 725-1052

(Across from Costco) 2643 Gulf to Bay, Ste. 1530

With a legacy spanning nearly 30 years, PHFL is proud to offer our community during the coronavirus and unemployment crisis, a discounted rate to our residential substance use treatment program.

TAMPA (813) 932-5327 1425 W. Busch Blvd.

PICKUP AND DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE

Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed by first-time customers for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household.

Offer valid for one-time use through 02/14/2021.

Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, laundry, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 02/14/2021.

Offer valid only when coupon is presented at drop-off. Coupon can only be redeemed for dry cleaning services sold at participating Tide Cleaners locations. They cannot be redeemed for any product sold at any other retail store. Not valid on wash and fold, leather, alterations, household items or wedding dresses. Cannot be used with any other discount or promotion. One discount per household. Offer valid for one-time use through 02/14/2021.

1928 E Bloomingdale Ave (813) 662-4243 1529 S. Dale Mabry Hwy (813) 251-2234 Mon-Fri 7-7 • Sat 8-5

Page 14

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 1

Brandon Biz Pros Networking Group Donates Funds To Family Promise

GNC Smoothie Shop Opening In Bloomingdale Square Offers Popular Beet Boost Slushie

A group of doors of a day local residents center in 2014 to helped their busiserve homeless nesses and a children and their local charity last families in the month.

Greater Brandon Brandon Biz area. The goal Pros, a self-govwas to empower erned leads referhomeless famiral group, strives lies to obtain to provide a colaffordable houslective sales ing and a Brandon Biz Pros is a selfgoverned leads referral group. It team for their state of strives to provide a collective members where lasting sales team for its members they can learn independwhere they can learn from, support and help each other grow. from, support ence. To and help each other grow. date, it has helped over 35 families attain “Brandon Biz Pros was born out of a their goal of sustainable housing. small group of Brandon Chamber memEarly in 2017, its board of directors bers that got together and started the made a decision to change its name to group in March of 2019,” said Brandon Family Promise of Hillsborough County Biz Pro Chairperson David Thornton. “We as it more accurately encompassed the collect dues to cover expenses but rarely area it serves. The organization has been spend what we collect. Our leftover able to assist homeless families from all money is donated to local causes or char- of Hillsborough County as well as partner ities.” with the county on services.

The local charity that recently Every year, Brandon Biz Pros invites received $750 from the group was Family local charities to come pitch their groups Promise of Hillsborough County. for donations, and Family Promise of “Edwina Reddick of Family Promise Hillsborough County has been a regular and I both served as ambassadors of the attendee. “Family Promise has consisBrandon Chamber together,” Thornton tently answered the call,” Thornton said. said. “We donated $300 for her organiza“With many people losing their jobs and tion and we also gave her a paid memhaving their rent deferred, we felt that bership. Our group also donated another Family Promise needed all the help they $300, which went to Mark Oliver of could get.”

Specially Fit.” Brandon Biz Pros meets weekly Family Promise of Greater Brandon every Friday morning online from 8:45-10 was incorporated in 2010 as an affiliate of a.m. Contact Thornton at dthornton@abcFamily Promise. The group opened the netfl.com.

GNC is known for afternoon pick-me-up. The vitamins and healthy Pre-Workout Pump Up is supplements, but now great to get you ready to the GNC in workout and the PostBloomingdale will be Workout Recovery is peroffering healthy, fresh fect for muscle repair and smoothies in addition to recovery. the regular products it The Davises are also carries. “We are a famiworking on coming up with Todd and Kimberly Davis are an immunity smoothie to ly, locally-owned busithe owners of GNC’s new GNC ness in the heart of help boost their customers’ Smoothie Bar, located in Brandon with more than immune systems to get Bloomingdale Square.

30 years’ service to our comthem ready for the upcoming cold munity,” said Co-owner and flu season. “It will definitely Kimberly Davis. “We are proud be packed with vitamin C and to be a longtime GNC franother fresh fruits,” Kim said. “All of chise committed to our cusour smoothies are made with tomers’ health and well-being. fresh fruits and we offer whey or With the addition of our GNCvegan protein, premium blend or branded Smoothie Bar, we are grass-fed.” excited to expand our expertCustomers can build their ise in providing your family with own smoothies as well. They pick the best health and wellness options.” a base and up to three fresh fruits, rangThe GNC Smoothie Shop features ing from strawberries to mangos, and top-quality ingredients, premium proteins then they can add a premium protein and first-to-market performance smoothpowder or supplements. “What makes us ies. “The GNC Smoothie Bar at the newly different from other smoothie shops is renovated Bloomingdale Square is truly that all of our smoothies and slushies are here to help you and your family live very healthy or low-calories,” Todd said. well,” said Co-owner Todd Davis. “We are The GNC Smoothie Bar will have its also the home of the ‘Beet Boost Slushie.’ grand opening in early 2021, but it’s curMany of our customers have been hesirently open for business. tant of trying it, but once they did, they are The GNC Smoothie Bar is located in hooked.” the Bloomingdale Square shopping cenThe Beet Boost Slushie is a perform- ter at 967 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in ance slushie that is great for a pre-workBrandon. The shop’s hours of operation out or an afternoon energy boost. Some are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; of the other performance slushies offered Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 at the smoothie shop are the FrozeAde, a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, contact which is a creamy treat perfect for an the Davises at 643-1500.

By Libby Hopkins

By Libby Hopkins

January 2021

Page 15

Valrico Edition

Kids ‘R’ Kids Angel Tree Produces Gifts For 150 Foster Kids Thanks To Students & Community

Neighborhood Staple, Willie’s Seafood Closes After 45 Years In Business

A group of local Kids ‘R’ Kids’ children had a happy goal is to serve every holiday season foster child in thanks to the genHillsborough County erosity of Valrico and by providing each Lithia families. Kids child with new, age‘R’ Kids, a local childappropriate gifts from care center, set up their wish lists.

Angel Trees in its Over the years, facilities, and thanks Fernandes and other to parents and comemployees have visitmunity members, 150 ed the Foster Angel local foster children warehouse facility received new gifts. where tens of thouThe way it works: sands of toys are a tree is set up with housed for the chilangel ornaments dren. detailing children’s “This year, we wishes. Residents were very skeptical are invited to pick an given the COVID Kids ‘R’ Kids connected generous angel and buy sever- residents with kids in need last month, pandemic,” resulting in 150 gifts for local foster al presents for a child Fernandes admitted. children. in need; it’s that sim“We were honestly ple. The Foster Angel anxious at the type of Tree drive started for this response we would have. facility back in 2004 and We are enthused with the since then has helped results at both Kids ‘R’ thousands of children in the local comKids locations this year. Both our lobbies munity. are overflowing with generous toys, “We first got involved with this bikes and gifts.” organization when we realized there This is the largest turn out the were so many children that are separatorganization has had since it began ed from their family and placed in a foshosting the program over a decade ago. ter home due to abuse, neglect or abanIf you would like to contribute for donment during the Christmas Holiday,” next holiday season, Kids ‘R’ Kids has said Ben Fernandes, one of the owners two locations, one in Valrico near River at Kids ‘R’ Kids. “Our mission at Kids ‘R’ Hills and the other in Lithia near Kids was to reach out to our families FishHawk West. who come from an affluent background For more information, visit to and ask them to help our cause.”

KidsRKids.com or call 654-7000.

businesses, the COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on Willie’s. “We have always been a big part of the community,” Robinson said. “We’ve sponsored little league teams, supported many FFAs and many comWillie’s Seafood in Valrico has been a Brandon staple munity organizations held for more than 45 years. The Robinson family owns the their meetings at our community-loved restaurant and the family recently restaurant. My son and his made the very difficult decision to close Willie’s wife have been running the Seafood. The restaurant closed on December 23. restaurant for the last six Willie’s Seafood in Valrico has been years and then COVID hit. They had to a Brandon staple for more than 45 shut down. They missed the snowbird years. The Robinson family owns the season, but when they opened back up, community-loved restaurant and the they could only have 25 percent capacifamily recently made the very difficult ty. They still paid all their employees durdecision to close Willie’s Seafood. ing the shutdown, but with the restaurant A message on the restaurant’s webbeing an old building needing repairs site said, “We would like to let all of you and the cost to run it, it was just too know that we have made the decision to much.” close down Willie’s, the place for Robinson said she’s not going to seafood. It was not an easy decision dwell on the sadness over having to and a variety of reasons contribute to close Willie’s, but she will focus on all this choice. Many have noticed that the the good memories and what could menu prices have increased 20 percent come in the future for the restaurant. in two years. This has not touched the “Our customers are like our extended deficit caused by building repair, family,” Robinson said. “We’ve seen their increased food costs and payroll children grow up, graduate high school increases.” and then college and then they get marThe Brandon community was sadried. I’m not sure what Willie’s will dened to find out this local landmark become next, but hopefully, in some would be gone before the Christmas holshape or form, it will still be a part of our idays. “This was a family-owned and community.” operated business,” Owner Maryellen If you would like to see what the Robinson said. “We had Bill’s mother, future holds for Willie’s Seafood, keep aunts, uncles, cousins and children an eye on its Facebook page at working in the restaurant in the beginwww.facebook.com/WilliesThePlaceFor ning. It was just all family.”

Seafood.

Like many other restaurants and

By Maria Myers

By Libby Hopkins

BUSINESS DIRECTORY OF LOCAL SERVICES COUNSELING & MASSAGE THERAPY

ALTERATIONS

Inna’s

PAINTING

Flexible Hours

Palm Tree Roofing

ALTERATIONS and REPAIRS Ladies, Gentlemen, & Children

A trusted local professional

BIG SALE

ALL TYPES OF ROOF REPLACEMENTS

Homecoming Dresses Over 25 Years Experience

Bloomingdale Professional Center

FAST, FREE, FRIENDLY ESTIMATES

1514 Bloomingdale Ave E., Valrico

Call 813-333-6320

(near Bloomingdale High School)

Frank Shaft Licensed Contractor

(813) 651-4416

DOG TRAINING “Since 1972”

• Puppy Training • Obedience Training IN • CGC & Therapy Training YOUR • Service Training HOME • PTSD Training • Protection Training • Aggression or County Citation

813-685-6666 allamericandog.net

ROOFING

#CCC1327713

ACCOUNTING PEST CONTROL GARY D. MEYER

HEAT & AC

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

• Accounting & Bookkeeping • Compiled Financial Statement Presentations • Tax Return Preparation for Individuals, Corporations, LLC’s and Partnerships • Consulting for New Business Startups • Financial & Estate Planning

813-971-4067

gmeyer4@tampabay.rr.com Serving the Tampa Bay Area Since 1980

YOUR TERMITE AND PEST SOLUTION FROM YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PROFESSIONAL

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL FREE ESTIMATES CALL OUR TRAINED EXPERTS 24 HOURS A DAY

813-915-4080

4306 NORTH 56 STREET • TAMPA, FL 33610

Residential & Commercial Installation & Repair Commercial Refrigeration

(813) 671-2555

Page 16

Valrico Edition

raised $10,000 and used that to deliver over 1,000 lunches to two local hospitals for the professional healthcare work-ers while supporting local restaurants. This time, the $4,000 was used to provide every employee at the Lithia Springs Elementary School in Valrico with a $50 ett y Benn n n e J y Christmas present. “Our om ed b Compil preyobserver.c board has fully backed @os jbennett management’s efforts to show appreciation to those that serve not only our club and residential development of River Hills, but also on behalf of those they serve in other areas and communities,” said Bob Sweezy, general manager. He added, “We wanted every single employee of the school to know that we realize each of them is as important as Manatee Viewing Center To another, regardless if an administrator, Remain Closed teacher, cook, janitor or support services.

Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing They are a family taking care of other Center, where people can watch manafamilies, and our family cares.” tees gather each year, will remain closed until at least fall as a result of the ongoing Bingo Returns To St. Stephen coronavirus pandemic. The viewing cenCatholic Church ter, located at Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Bingo returns to St. Stephen’s Power Station in Apollo Beach, has been Catholic Church on Tuesday, January 19. a staple for more than 30 years and Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and allows visitors easy access bingo will begin at 6:30 p.m. to the herds of manatees The cost to play is $15 and that are drawn to the plant’s there are cash prizes. The warm wa-ters in its disevent is spon-sored by St. charge canal. “As with so Stephen Catholic Church many of the changes we’ve Community for Women, who seen this year, we know provide support to the St. keeping the Manatee Stephen community at large Viewing Center closed this with donations. season was a disappointSt. Stephen Catholic Church is locatment,” said Stan Kroh, manager of Land ed at 10118 St. Stephen Cir. in Riverview. and Stewardship Programs for Tampa Electric. “Safety is our top priority, and Strawberry Square Dance Center with that in mind, we’re offering virtual Continues Social Dances ways to experience the center until we can welcome visitors back in person.” It is Plant City Social Dance will be hostex-pected to reopen on Sunday, ing dances every Saturday night in November 1.

January at the Strawberry Square Dance In the meantime, you can Center at 4401 watch the manatees from the Promenade Blvd. comfort of your own home by from 6 to 9:30 visiting p.m. The number www.tampaelectric.com/manaof attendees will tee. be limited to 50 people and reserRiver Hills Country Club vations are Shows Thanks To Local required. To listen Elementary School to a sample playlist and find River Hills Country Club recently out additional information, visit raised $4,000 to show thanks and apprewww.djkenmiller.com. ciation to those on the front lines of the To make a reservation, call 863-409COVID-19 pandemic through its ‘Tee It 7714.

Up For Teachers’ mission. In April, it

ng i w e i V e Manate Remains Center more... & Closed

Volume 18, Issue 1

Lightning Asst. Equipment Manager Shares Stanley Cup Day With Family & Friends

By Nick Nahas

Brandon resident eating at the food trucks Rob Kennedy’s name is outside. He then etched on the most brought the Cup next famous trophy in sports, door to the Heroes Only the Stanley Cup. The Barber Shop, where he assistant equipment gets his hair cut. After manager for the Tampa the festivities, they went Bay Lightning was a back to his house to part of the 2020 chamhave a party with his pionship team. friends and family to Kennedy has been end the night. with the club for 13 Kennedy’s job was years, after previously particularly difficult this Rob Kennedy lifts the Stanley season with the NHL working for several Cup over his head. minor league teams as playing its playoff well as the Florida Panthers. He got games in a bubble in Canada after a started with hockey when he was in four-month break during the regular college in Chicago, mainly because it season. The Lightning started in was the only job available near his Toronto and later traveled to school.

Edmonton for the last two rounds. He It’s customary that each player spent about two months away from his and member of the staff of the winning family during the championship run. team gets to spend a day with the Kennedy and his staff had to do a lot Stanley Cup trophy in the off-season. of planning, making sure the players Kennedy wanted to share the experihad everything they needed. Jerseys, ence with his community and the peosticks, skates, gloves and helmets, ple closest to him. among other things, had to be packed The day started with Kennedy up on the plane to travel. Kennedy bringing the Cup to his parents’ house said that they still aren’t completely in Cape Coral. His father has been unpacked after the trip. sick and Kennedy didn’t want him Kennedy’s dream of winning the exposed to other people in the midst Stanley Cup came true when the of the pandemic. The Beer Shed in Lightning defeated the Dallas Stars in Riverview was the next stop, where six games. “All the hard work finally they stayed for about an hour, and paid off, not just the work we put in they later ended up at Bullfrog Creek this year, but the long work we put in Brewing Co. in Valrico from 3-6 p.m. throughout our careers,” said Kennedy.

Kennedy and his family built a special “I don’t think people know how hard it bond with the Bullfrog Creek owner is to win a championship at any level, and staff after frequenting the bar and let alone the greatest trophy ever.”

“Turning The Key To The American Dream”

KarynScechHomes.com

HOME BUYER TIP

←

Get prequalified... this gives you an estimate of how much a lender may be willing to lend based on your income and debts.

Karyn Scech RSPS, PSA, SRES, GRI REALTOR®

January 2021

Page 17

Valrico Edition

By Kathy L. Collins

Marilyn Comes To Downtown Plant City As Part Of Walkable Outdoor Art Display The Arts Council of Plant City has strewn some magic around downtown Plant City. The Arts Council, in partnership with the City of Plant City, Unity in the Community and Plant City Photo Archives & History Center, has brought back the beautiful, lifesize J. Seward Johnson sculptures.

The sculptures are strategically placed throughout downtown and can be seen now through March 15.

Johnson creates trompe l’oeil painted bronze statues which are castings of living people, depicting them engaged in day-to-day activities.

There are 10 statues on display. No Hands can be found at the Bruton Memorial Library. Allow Me is situated in front of the City Hall south entrance. Nice To See You is at the Plant City Chamber building. Big Sister is located at the west end of McCall Park. Cat Nap can be found outside of Plant City Photo Archives & History Center. The most photographed statue, Forever Marilyn, is on Collins St. at McCall Park. Wine, Food and Thou is at the corner of Collins St. and Reynolds St. Sidewalk Concert is on the corner of Palmer St. and Reynolds St. The iconic World War II Embracing Peace is in front of the Robert W. Willaford Railroad

Museum. No Way can be found at Village Green Park.

Marsha Passmore, president of the Arts Council of Plant City, said, “The Arts Council has made it our The Arts Council of Plant City is proud to present the J. Seward Johnson mission to pro- sculptures. All of the sculptures are within walking distance. Be on the lookout for No Way at Village Green Park and Forever Marilyn at the vide programs Collins St. entrance to McCall Park. that support walk past even one of the sculptures the visual, performing, and culinary and not see someone taking pictures arts. The Seward Johnson sculptures and selfies with them. It brings our is our largest public art exhibit. It is community together in a way that an outside, open-air exhibit that can nothing else could. These sculptures be viewed at any time. We promise are so lifelike. We get constant posithat the time you spend strolling the tive feedback because our community area locating the 10 sculptures will be enjoys them so much. If they brighttime well spent.” Passmore added, en just one person's day, then it is “The J. Seward Johnson sculptures worth our effort.” are known worldwide, and it is a priviWhite added, “With all of our lege to display them locally.”

2020 fundraisers being cancelled due Dodie White, member chair, said, to COVID-19, our faithful members “We feel that it is important to bring have helped to keep us alive this them to Plant City because of the year. We are also very appreciative of enjoyment they bring our community. partnerships with the City of Plant It is almost impossible to drive or

City, Mainstreet, Unity in the Community, Plant City Photo Archives, Lubrano Designs and all of our supporters that enable us to keep the arts alive in our beautiful Plant City community.”

This is a fantastic way to explore the charming historic district of Plant City. As you take the tour, be sure to check out some of the great local businesses in the area like Roots Tap Room & Wine Bar, Krazy Kup, Plant City Photo Archives and Tennessee Jane Boutique.

In addition to bringing the statues to downtown, the Arts Council of Plant City offers scholarships to graduating seniors, sponsors the PTSA Reflections Art Exhibit at Plant City High School, sends low-income children to a museum and supports arts organizations such as Winthrop Arts for its Mobile Art Factory.

The Arts Council of Plant City is funded by memberships ($25 per individual or $35 per family) and fundraisers, including its annual Chilifest set to take place on Saturday, January 30.

For more information about The Arts Council of Plant City, please visit www.plantcityarts.com and follow it on Facebook.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA RHEUMATOLOGY Specializing in treatment of:

Rheumatoid Arthritis • Psoriatic Arthritis • Osteoporosis Gout • Osteoarthritis • Lupus Accepting ts New Patien nce

3237 LITHIA PINECREST

VALRICO

most insura accepted

(@ Miller Rd., North of Bloomingdale)

Dr. Priya Reddy M.D. FACR

Board Certified Rheumatologist

Quality Service at a Great Price - No Extra Charges Ever!

Dr. Gina Prakash M.D.

On Site:

Infusion • Lab • Ultrasound 813-672-2243 11954 Boyette Rd., Riverview

w w w.S WFLRHEUM.com

Board Certified Rheumatologist

813.661.5494

Hours: Mon - Sat 7am - 7pm All Items Prepaid - No Leather/Formals

Any Garment

$2.75

PRE-PAID - NO LIMIT | EXP. 2/1/2021 SEVILLE CLEANERS

Same Day Service In By 9am Out by 4pm (dry clean only)

Page 18

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 1

Sports Connection (Photos courtesy of Fred Ocasio

657-2418

www.ospreyobserver.com

By Nick Nahas

Bloomingdale Football Achieves Best Season In School History; Makes State Semifinal Appearance well. The dual-threat QB completed 153 passes for 2,490 yards and an eye-popping 27 touchdowns, while carrying the ball 96 times for 400 yards and seven touchdowns. He is currently deciding between several college offers.

Other players that signed in the early signing period for college football include cornerback/wide receiver Philip Riley Agiye Hall makes the fingertip QB Tre Simmons led the Bulls with (University of Notre Dame), nose The Bulls make the gang tackle The Bulls had a perfect 8-0 regucatch.

34 total touchdowns. against Durant. guard Jordan Guerad (Florida lar season. played defense and was the team’s leading International University), cornerback risen from one of the worst programs in It was a year of firsts for the receiver, wracking up 51 receptions for Jayden Williams (Florida Atlantic University) Hillsborough County to arguably the best.

Bloomingdale High School football pro1,028 yards and 13 touchdowns. One of and safety Britton Pascoe (North Dakota In the 2020 season, Bloomingdale had one gram. The Bulls won their first district his biggest highlights was catching a 46State). According to Coulson, many more championship in the school’s 33-year histo- of the toughest schedules in the county, yard Hail Mary as time expired to win the Bulls will sign on National Signing Day on facing powerhouse programs such as ry, achieving a team-best 12-1 overall game against Tampa Bay Tech 25-22 early Wednesday, February 3, including Tampa Bay Tech, Plant City, Lakeland and record, capped by the program’s first state in the season to keep the team’s perfect Simmons.

Armwood, defeating them all. semifinal appearance in the school’s historecord intact.

Coulson also credits his undersized ry. Bloomingdale boasted a perfect 8-0 reg- Bloomingdale effectively became the “He’s a playmaker,” said Coulson. offensive line as a major part of the team’s cream of the crop when they beat ular season as well.

“Obviously everybody knows about him, success. What they lacked for in size was Armwood twice, once in the season opener The Bulls were led by Head Coach he’s a freaky specimen at 6’3” and 200 made up with heart, tenacity and coachabil15-14 and for the second time in the Jake Coulson in his second season. pounds, running a 4-4. That’s very rare in ity. Derrick Mahoney, Lance Walker, Carson regional semifinal 24-14. Prior to the 2020 Coulson has an outstanding 21-4 record the NFL, let alone at the high school level.

Wynperle, Isaiah Lowery and Javon Hall season, they had never beaten Armwood since he was promoted from defensive He was not just a ‘me’ guy, he was a ‘we’ anchored that unit “I’m proud of what we before. Coulson attributes this turnaround coordinator to the head man after the 2018 guy, and he really bought into what we overcame and did with COVID and all the to hard work, talent, continuity and, most season. He was named the National asked him to do.” distractions; through all that, we fought importantly, a culture change.

Football Foundation Tampa Chapter’s Billy Another star player for the Bulls was through it and had a great season,” said Bloomingdale had its most talented Turner 2020 Coach of the Year. He was Jefferson transfer senior quarterback Tre Simmons. “The standard, in my opinion, at group of players ever, led by Alabama also named Dairy Farmer’s Football 7A, Simmons. Simmons not only was the Bloomingdale has changed,” said Coulson. signee, senior wide receiver Agiye Hall, District 15 Coach of the Year and Big team’s leader as the signal caller, but he “We were state semifinalists and we need who transferred from Armwood. Agiye did it County Preps’ Coach of the Year. had the stats to back up his on-field play as to get back there.”

Within the last 10 years, the Bulls have all for the Bulls this season—he punted,

January 2021

Valrico Edition

Page 19

Durant Girls Soccer Wins Tampa Bay United Invitational

Local Baseball Team Gives Back By Caroling At Local Assisted Living Communities

The Durant girls team had been soccer team had a working so hard in memorable this tournament and I Christmas break, knew that we winning the highly deserved to win competitive Tampa those games,” said Bay United (TBU) Horn. “Both games Invitational. were goals in the last The Cougars second, and it was went 3-0, defeating just so much pure Mariner 1-0, joy that overflowed Wiregrass Ranch 2through me when 0 and Land O’ Photo courtesy of Durant girls soccer the whistle blew and Lakes 1-0 in the I knew that we had The Cougars went 3-0 in the TBU Invitational. tournament, held won the game. I December 21-23 in Tampa. The comthink this tournament helped prove not bined records of the five teams competonly to me, but to our team, that we can ing in the TBU before tournament play win these games, especially against was an astounding 34-3-3. these really elite teams.”

“I was really proud of the girls,” said The legendary Coach Peet may Head Coach Sue Peet. “The opportunity retire after this season. She has been had never really presented itself to being coaching soccer since 1980, serving as in one of these Christmas tournaments. the head coach for several schools, This year the door opened up for us, a including Brandon, Chamberlain, team dropped out and I jumped on the Coconut Creek, Bloomingdale, opportunity and said let’s go give it a shot. Steinbrenner and Durant. Peet won the The kids grow by playing good competistate championship in 2001 with tion, so that’s what we did.”

Bloomingdale.

Three Durant players earned AllDurant, 8-2-1, has high expectations Tournament Team honors, including for the rest of the season. “I’m expecting sophomore midfielder/defender Katlyn our team to go far this year,” said Horn.

Levasseur, senior striker/midfielder “We’ve finally proven to ourselves how Kendall Drummond and freshman striker good of a team we can really be, and I Rachel Horn. Senior defender/midfielder think based off of that, we can beat Hannah Kittrell was named MVP of the teams that maybe we wouldn’t have tournament. been able to beat prior. I want to continHorn led the team with two of the ue improving on everything I need to four total goals scored, with both being 1work on and be able to help my team 0 game-winners. even more.” Horn said her overall motto “It was such an amazing feeling. Our for the year is “Don’t stop the grind.”

’Tis the season for giving back, which is exactly what the Bloomingdale U15 AB Baseball team did this holiday. On December 22, 2020, the boys, ranging in age from 12 to 15, went Christmas caroling at Twin Creeks assisted living and memory care in Riverview as well as The Bloomingdale U15 AB Baseball team went Christmas Rosecastle at Delaney caroling at Twin Creeks assisted living and memory care in Creek in Brandon off of Riverview as well as Rosecastle at Delaney Creek in Brandon S. Lakewood Dr. on S. Lakewood Dr. last month.

Ryan Phillips’ son when COVID-19 has especially limited plays for the team. He also happens to the interactions of the elderly with those be the head coach. closest to them, has proven to improve “I just thought it was a way that we the quality of life of these individuals, if at could have the boys do something that least only for a moment. would impact others during the holiday “I know from personal experience season,” Phillips stated. and working intimately in hospice that Classic songs such as “Jingle Bell some of these residence haven’t seen Rock,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed their families—they haven’t had access to Reindeer” and “We Wish You a Merry their families like they would normally Christmas” rang throughout the hallways [because] of COVID,” said Philips. of these usually quiet facilities. Some of “So the boys being able to volunteer the residents were even seen mouthing and give back because they were out of the words. This was a pleasant sight and school just seems to be a perfect fit. And a big plus, as some of the individuals at they both enjoyed it—it was great.” these facilities are located on the memory If you have children who are interestcare units and have ailments such as ed in joining the Bloomingdale AB dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Baseball team, email Additionally, as the hospice care con- registerbysa@gmail.com. sultant for these two communities, Phillips For more information on Twin Creeks was able to confirm with the directors of assisted living and memory care, please nursing and the activities director of the visit www.twincreeksretire.com. For more facilities that the residents absolutely information on Rosecastle at Delaney loved it.

Creek, please visit brandonseniors.com Spreading cheer around this time, or call 655-8858.

By Nick Nahas

By Maria Myers

www.edwardjones.com/adam-benabram adam.benabram@edwardjones.com

EXPIRES: 1/31/2021

Caring for a loved one with Dementia or Alzheimer’s?

LIFE isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass...

It’s about learning to dance in the rain.

Assisted Living for Memory Care Day Stay & Respite Programs Support Groups for Caregivers Call today to visit our community.

We can work together to give your loved one the best possible care.

Make sure to talk to the doctor if your loved one is suddenly combative or gets agitated easily, it could be that they are experiencing some kind of pain that they simply can't explain.

Assisted Living Facility #9739

Page 20

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 1

WOULD YOU O LIKE THE CHANCE TO HAVE V YO OUR INSURAN NCE PREMIUMS WORK FOR YOU? O DO NOT REP PLACE C YO OUR ROO OF WITHOUT LETT TING US TA AKE A LO OOK!

ROOF REP PAIR AND PA REPLACEMEN NT SER RV VICES

Family own ned business ser ving our neighbo ors fo or 39 years! <<< Alex Al (Ow (Owner)) with ith his hi sons...

“Our next gen neration of roofers!”

Valrico

January 2021 Magruder Agency Celebrates 31 Years

Volume 18, Issue 1

Ph: 657-2418

The Magruder Agency was established in 1989 by Patricia Magruder and has grown because it pays attention to the needs of each client. It is too easy to find yourself with a generic insurance policy that doesn’t truly fit your specific situation. The Magruder Agency takes Daylight the time to sit with each of Concepts Can its policyholders and new Brighten Your clients to learn about their Home coverage needs, budget limi- Patricia and Stephanie Magruder.

Daylight tations and policy types that they are Concepts is a specialized group of interested in. Each client leaves with professionals that helps increase the the best quality coverage to meet comfort of your home. Have you ever each of their needs and requirewalked into a room in the middle of ments. Over the years, the Magruder the day and had to turn your lights Agency has received many communi- on? That’s exactly the type of problem ty awards, including Woman-Owned that they can solve in just a couple of Business of the Year, Small Business hours. With tubular skylights, they of the Year and Excellence in bring natural daylight to kitchens, bathMarketing from the Brandon Chamber rooms, hallways, staircases, you name it. of Commerce, and Woman of the In over 14 years in business, it’s brightYear from the American Business ened thousands of homes. If you want a Women’s Association. personalized experience, unique design The Magruder Agency is located and the best quality of products and servat 655 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon ices, it is the right contractor for you. and is open Monday to Friday, from 9 Daylight Concepts is based in a.m.-5 p.m. Patricia Magruder can be Tampa. For more information, visit reached on 654-3100 or by email at www.daylightconcepts.com or visit on patricia@magruderagency.com. Visit Facebook at solatubeflorida@daylightwww.magruderagency.com. concept.

Preservation 1st Financial Group Celebrating 16 Years In Business

Father and son team Michael and Christian Beiter are celebrating 16 years of their insurance and financial planning business, Preservation 1st Financial Group.

Preservation 1st Financial Group serves all your financial planning and insurance needs, including retirement planning, estate

planning, life insurance, medicare coverage, college planning and more.

Its mission is to partner with their clients and their families in their pursuit of their financial goals.

Preservation 1st Financial Group is located at 912 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon and can be contacted at 627-0872; it is currently providing virtual appointments. For more information, visit www.preservation1st.com.

Local Eye Doctor Fills Community Need With 3D Printing

Dr. Branning Hollis, co-owner of Southern Eye Care Associates in Valrico, specializes in specialty contact lens fittings, one being the scleral lens, which is very helpful for people with keratoconus and dry eye syndrome.

Dr. Hollis’ goal was to make something to aid in scleral lens insertion for his patients without the high cost. Dr. Hollis, father of two boys, works with his wife and co-owner, Dr. Mona Kardani, splitting their time in the office and homeschooling.

Resident Natacha Thorte mentioned that the See-Green product she had purchased online to aid in scleral lens insertion was not working properly.

Dr. Hollis went home and made (with his 3D printer) Thorte a scleral lens insertion kit he affectionately named the Hollis Scleral Stand.

Thorte came in the following Saturday for a new lens and was given the Hollis Scleral Stand. She is now able to use this product without having to worry about it not working properly.

Dr. Hollis plans to share the production particulars for the scleral lens insertion stand online for others to duplicate.

Southern Eye Care Associates is located at 3307 Lithia Pinecrest Rd and can be reached at 654-0220. For more information, visit https://visionsource-valrico.com/.

Continued on Next Page

8 MODELS / 10 COLORS TO CHOOSE FROM

813.335.0015 WWW.ICONEV.COM

Page 22

Volume 18, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

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

Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility Awarded Best Of Senior Living Award

By Jenny Bennett

The SeniorAdvisor.com Best of Senior Living 2021 Awards, in partnership with A Place for Mom, recognizes senior living and home care providers who receive consistently high ratings and positive reviews from residents, families and visitors. This exclusive designation is awarded to less than 3 percent of providers nationwide. Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility in Riverview was just awarded this for the third consecutive year. Dorothy Cares offers assisted living 24/7, respite care and adult day care in smaller, home-like settings which many prefer for more of that one-to-one care. It offers assistance with activities of daily living, three meals along with two snacks per day, housekeeping, laundry, help setting up transportation to doctors appointments, medication supervision, exercise and social programs and more.

It is the perfect facility for a loved one who is not ready for a nursing home or a large assisted living facility and still wants to feel independent in a place that they can call home.

Dorothy Cares Assisted Living Facility has two homes in the Riverview area. For more information, visit www.dorothycaresalf.com, email dorothycaresalf@gmail.com or call 8628871.

Kemp Design Services Open For Graphic And Internet Services

Kevin and Barbara Kemp recently opened Kemp Design Services to help

meet clients’ graphic design and internet needs. It is a small, family-owned business that prides itself on creating superior graphics and excellent customer service. “We seek to understand the needs of our clients and make it our mission to provide them with marketing that works. We are committed to serving our community and clients,” said Kevin. Services offered by Kemp Design Services include website design, logo design, print advertising design, search engine optimization and social media management and training.

Kemp Design Services is located at 18921 Boyette Rd. in Lithia and is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit www.kempdesignservices.com or www.facebook.com/KempDesign/. You can also follow it on Twitter @KempDesignServ or call 655-9200.

Valrico Business Owner Creates Products That Kill COVID-19

Don Bethel, owner of DnB Products, offers a line of products that have proven effective against COVID-19. As part of its Germ Shield product line, DnB Products recently introduced the Germ Shield Disinfectant

Fogger. The Germ Shield Disinfectant Fogger is a single-use aerosol can that dispenses a light mist of disinfectant into the air which spreads through the space and onto surfaces, effectively disinfecting the entire area. The air and surfaces are left clean and deodorized.

The Germ Shield line of products kill 99.9 percent of germs and were developed for use in industries such as healthcare, education and public transportation. They are currently being used by the Tampa Police Department and the City of Tampa.

For more information about the Germ Shield Disinfectant Fogger, visit https://dnbproductsinc.com/.

Desarden Accounting Services, Inc

Do you need help with payroll? Or are you looking to achieve your financial goals without being exposed to unreasonable risk? Desarden Accounting Services, Inc has the necessary assistance you need. For over 16 years, Desarden Accounting Services has provided reliable support for the following accounting services; bookkeeping, payroll, notary, power of attorney, IRS representation, audits, tax returns and more.

Desarden Accounting Services dedicates its time to help clients by providing the right infor-

mation and knows that finance is a sensitive subject, so it will make sure to create an environment built on honesty and trust where you will feel respected and secured.

For more information visit riverviewaccountingservices.com, email desardenservices@gmail.com or call 786 234-8260.

Adam Bantner Is Designated AV Preeminent By Peers

Adam Bantner, a criminal defense and personal injury attorney with Valrico Law Group, has been designated as an AV Preeminent lawyer by MartindaleHubbell. This adds to the growing list of recognitions for Bantner. He has been board certified by the Florida Bar in Criminal Trial Law since 2016, has been on the Super Lawyers Rising Star list over multiple years and was recognized by Florida Trend as one of Florida’s Legal Elite in 2020. AV Preeminent is the highest peer rating standard and is given to attorneys who are ranked at the highest level of professional excellence for their legal expertise, communication skills and ethical standards.

Valrico Law Group is situated at 3626 Erindale Dr. in Valrico. Bantner can be reached at 397-3965, or you can go to www.ValricoLawGroup.com to learn more about his and Valrico Law Group’s practices.

LOOKING TO BUY

OR SELL A HOME?

We are your neighborhood expert Realtors.

Offering 100% VIRTUAL Home Buying & Selling Services

Contact us today for your personalized home analysis.

Michele Urbanowski (732) 757-5186

www.FLhomesbymichele.com Shelly Valdez (813) 401-9489

www.Shellysuperagent.com Each Century 21 office is independently owned and operated.

LAKE BRANDON VILLAGE 11325 Causeway Blvd • Brandon (813) 655-1237

SOUTH BRANDON 2010 Bloomingdale Ave • Brandon 6am - 10pm (813) 571-0569 Hours:

January 2021

Page 23

Valrico Edition

Year In Review - Updates On The Top Stories From 2020 A Welcome New Year, Time For Resolutions, Renewals & Returns

Who would have thought a year ago we could have anticipated that within two months, our world would be shaken by a global pandemic the likes of which we have never seen? As COVID-19 precautions and regulations were put into place, we, the Osprey Observer, an essential business as a media outlet, would need to pivot our business model and react to the new quarantine restrictions.

Fortunately, as a locally owned business for more than 19 years with an incredible team, we made adjustments and sent our team home to work remotely, we continue to do our staff and sales meetings via our new best friend Zoom, we do digital newspaper proofs rather than printed versions and we’ve streamlined our processes to be more efficient. Luckily, due to the skill level and experience of our team, we haven’t missed a single

deadline or edition all year.

As our small businesses recover from the effects of 12 weeks of closure and continued new precautionary measures, we are right beside them to support them. We also added a ‘Living In COVID’ section where we highlight stories of hope.

And, again this holiday season, we did our annual ‘Our Favorite Things Holiday Sweepstakes’ with prizes from over 28 local businesses, and boy, did that put us in the holiday spirit! Congratulations to all of the winners and thank you to the businesses who supported us in this campaign and throughout the year. The Osprey Observer is one hundred percent supported by local advertising and readers like you.

Please reach out to me anytime, we appreciate you.

Sincerely,

Marie Gilmore Managing Editor, Publisher

100 Women Who Care Pick Living For Logan Charity To Raise Distracted Driving Awareness

By Gwen Rollings

The 100 Women also to work toward Who Care eliminating the deadly Riverview/FishHawk epidemic of distracted group continued to drivers through eduraise money and cation, legislation and help others during changing hearts, the remaining minds and habits of months of 2020. In drivers everywhere.

July, the group The foundation is a donated to the tax-exempt 501(c)(3) 100 Women Who Care present a check nonprofit organizaAndrew Joseph to the Living for Logan Foundation.

Foundation and, in tion.

September, it donated to Another good woman the AlexStrong stepped up to do someFoundation. Seeds of thing. Melanie Jordy of Hope benefited in December.

FishHawk started Operation Lotus after New members are always welher husband died. The mission of her come. The next meeting will take place nonprofit is to help other families going on Tuesday, March 10 at the Venue in through a traumatic event. That is how Riverview. she met Jordan and Brooke Scherer. “I To learn more, find the group on now serve as the executive director for Facebook.

Living for Logan,” said Jordy.

Original story printed March 2020.

Debbie Matice, a local KellerOn September 15, 2016, a driver Williams realtor, said she began this was distracted by his phone while driving chapter because, “I wanted to do somewhen he ran at more than 100 miles per thing for the community but didn’t have a hour into the back of an SUV stuck in a lot of time to volunteer. traffic jam on I-75 near Brooksville. That On January 28, a check in the distracted driver forever changed the life amount of $3,450 was presented to Jordy of a Riverview family. Their 9-year-old son as a representative for the Living for and brother, Logan, was killed instantly.

Logan Foundation. An additional donation That tragedy turned into a cause as the of $1,725 was approved by the Richard Scherer family struggled to deal with the M. Schultz Family Foundation, bringing senseless loss of Logan: “If we let his the total to $5,175. death define us as humans and do nothTo date, the chapter has donated ing with our survival and our story, then more than $25,000 to local charities and his death is in vain.” meets in person and virtually each quarter.

This good family did do something For more ways to get involved, visit and established the Living for Logan www.livingforlogan.org or www.faceFoundation not only to honor Logan but book.com/100WWCRiverviewFishhawk.

Page 24

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 1

Year In Review - Updates On The Top Stories From 2020 Mary Rossano, 100-Years-Old, Spreads Joy With Peanut Butter And Jelly Sandwiches

Seeds Of Hope Offers Drive-Through Food Bank Distribution To Meet Need

Mary Rossano, who church—Nativity Catholic.” inspired many residents During the conversawith her sandwich-maktion, Rossano and Caputo ing, passed away in realized that being part of September 2020.

Nativity’s Peanut Butter According to her friend, and Jelly Ministry was a Debra Caputo, the need perfect fit. Now, Rossano for sandwiches grew makes sandwiches from once the COVID-19 panher home and a member demic hit, and thanks to of the church picks them Rossano’s lead, a up and takes them to one FishHawk family made of the ten outreach food 200 additional sandbanks in Hillsborough wiches. Rossano continCounty. Nativity Church ued to make sandwiches Members and volunteers of distributes more than Nativity Catholic’s Peanut up until a month before 7,000 sandwiches a Butter and Jelly Ministry: Pam she passed and stayed Fattore, Debra Caputo, Mary month and has donated connected with the 500,000 sandwiches over Rossano and Rita Lichtenwalter. church her whole life. the last 14 years.

Original story printed March 2020.

“I love helping my church and I love Brandon resident Mary Rossano helping people who are hungry,” said knows that age is only a number and Rossano, “and it gives me something difhelping others has no age limit. In March, ferent to do.”

Rossano will mark a milestone, her 100th Rossano’s goal is to make 120 sandbirthday, and she remains active by volwiches each month. Caputo will be buyunteering and keeping busy focusing on ing three loaves of bread weekly to family and friends and the difference she ensure that nothing is wasted and that is making in the community. the bread will be fresh each week. In Her friend and caretaker through order to help Rossano reach her goal, Seniors Helping Seniors, Debra Caputo, Caputo reached out to the community via recently posted a short video on Facebook for donations of peanut butter, Facebook of Rossano making peanut squeeze bottles of grape jelly, ziplock butter and jelly sandwiches for Nativity baggies and white labels to adhere to the Catholic Church. Since then, the bags. The labels say things like, “You are response and outpouring of gratitude loved” and “God is love.” from others has been remarkable.

“This is a win, win, win for everyone,” “A few weeks ago, we had been talk- said Caputo. “Mary is able to contribute to ing about what her goals are for 2020,” her church by volunteering, the church is said Caputo, “and Mary said that she reaching out to the community and the wanted to be more involved in her hungry are being fed.”

As the COVIDupdated as needed on 19 pandemic the Seeds of Hope affected the Facebook page.

Greater Brandon “I think it’s nice; area, more resieverybody sits in their dents began relycar, drives by and voling to Seeds of unteers put the food in Hope for food and your trunk,” said Ellis support.

‘Lois’ Donaldson, a At the group’s Seeds of Hope benefiThanksgiving food ciary. distribution, 618 “It’s efficient and it Seeds of Hope Founder Leda Eaton boxes of food, 525 works really well,” (center) with food bank volunteers (from turkeys and 500 added Sebastian the left) Gabriel Rodriguez, Luke grocery bags filled Rodriguez, a LaFrance, Sebastian Rodriguez and Dylan Higham. with Thanksgiving Newsome High freshsides were handed out. man. “For me personally, and most of the The group also runs a mobile food kids here, we take this seriously because pantry for people unable to travel to people come here every week for food, the food bank and a backpack proand if we’re not here they can’t feed gram that sends food home with hunthemselves or their families.” dreds of area students each week. To After cutting its teeth on Hurricane learn more, visit www.sohopefl.org.

Irma, the all-volunteer Seeds of Hope Original story printed April 2020. charity, established 10 years ago in Lithia, Driven to “nourish hope among peois faced again with another major crisis, ple in need through the actions and help with Founder Leda Eaton at the helm provided by our local students,” Seeds of working tirelessly alongside volunteers to Hope has adopted drive-through services meet the needs of neighbors. to ensure folks who need food can get it Seeds of Hope is a registered while volunteers keep their social dis501(c)(3), charitable, all-volunteer organitance. zation which also provides a mobile Drive-through distribution has been pantry “that silently takes care of local instituted at the food bank every needs” and a backpack program for stuThursday, 5 to 7 p.m., at 710 East dents to ensure food security for students Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, in the and their families. parking lot of the Presbyterian Church of The food bank does not require peoBloomingdale. Meanwhile, drive-through ple in need to show identification or verificollection drives took place at Bevis cation.

Elementary School throughout March.

For more information and to donate, Additional drives and distributions are visit www.sohopefl.org.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Savannah Court is an elegant yet comfortable community offering 24-hour access to a well trained Complete Gym and friendly staff. The private or semi-private on Premises spacious suites offer sun-filled windows, In House kitchenettes and full private baths.

Rehabilitation Services • Restaurant Style Dining Experience • Housekeeping, Laundry and Maintenance Services • Vibrant Activities Program • Transportation for Outings and Medical Appointments • Cable is included in the monthly rental fee • Secured exterior doors and emergency call system for added safety • Day Service and Short Term Respite Program

Provided by:

By Linda Chion Kenney

January 2021

Page 25

Valrico Edition

Year In Review - Updates On The Top Stories From 2020 Still Time To Get Your Walking Shoes On For Relay For Life

Schools Superintendent Addison Davis Facing New Job & County Crisis Head On

The of Puget Sound American track for 24 hours Cancer and raised Society $27,000 for his (ACS) saw local American its Relay Cancer Society. In For Life the following year, events go 220 people of 19 unfulfilled At Relay for Life, survivors and families rally around teams joined him, the hope that all cancers will be cured. this year, and a worldwide as COVID-19 forced the suspension of phenomenon was born.

Relay For Life of FishHawk, Riverview, In 1994, Relay for Life became the SouthShore, Sun City Center and American Cancer Society’s signature Bloomingdale. While all teams and event.

ACS were disappointed the events Fast forward over 30 years and now didn’t occur, the communities continthe Relay for Life movement raises more ued to amaze through their support to than $400 million each year, and more the mission. than 5,000 Relay for Life events take The Relay For Life of place in over 20 countries. This is a monSoutheastern Hillsborough County umental accomplishment, but it still area raised $191,151 for the 2020 seabegins with one person, one team, one son, which actually started in late community for one purpose: to attack and 2019. The 2020 fundraising totals defeat cancer. were: FishHawk - $84,219; According to Tammy Schoonover, Bloomingdale - $30,418; Riverview senior community development manager $36,112; SouthShore - $31,389 and in Tampa, “The American Cancer Society Sun City Center - $9,013. puts these donations to work, investing in Relay events for the 2021 event groundbreaking research in every type of season will transition from tradition cancer and providing free information and and rely more heavily on virtual platservices to cancer patients and their careforms, volunteer efforts and communi- givers.” ty connections.

Relay events takes place in cities Reach out to Tammy Schoonover and small towns worldwide usually in this at tammy.schoonover@cancer.org. order: pre-fundraising, meeting with your Original story printed March 2020. team, opening ceremony, survivor and Do you ever wonder if only one percaregiver laps, time to celebrate, lighting son can make any difference in the fight the luminaries and then the closing cereagainst cancer? In 1985, Dr. Gordy Klatt, mony. a Tacoma, Washington surgeon, ran You can register and connect with a more than 83 miles around the University local team through www.relayforlife.org.

Superintendent Davis offered this message for readers after his first nine months in Hillsborough County.

“My first month on the job at Hillsborough County Public Schools coincided with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States.

Within weeks as the new Hillsborough County Schools Superintendent Superintendent, my staff and I Addison Davis sits with School Board Chair were creating plans from scratch Melissa Snively as he signs his contract to take for virtual instruction along with on his new position. daily meals to ensure all stuthat deserve their district’s support. dents’ needs were met while we could“We need to mainstream our curricun’t be with them physically. It was an lum,” he explained. “We have a lot of unusual time for our district, but I truly independent contractors and we need a believe it was an opportunity to show centralized curriculum and support for the community how our teachers, staff teachers and a method to allow us to and district remain dedicated to our determine our overall return on investstudents even under the most chalment.” lenging of circumstances.”

It’s this straight-to-the point and matOriginal story printed May 2020. ter-of-fact effort that made Davis a very Just four weeks into his new position popular administrator in Duval County, as superintendent of the country’s sevwhere he had been a teacher and princienth largest school district, with 280 pal before becoming Chief of Schools. In schools, more than 220,000 students and 2016, he was elected to the Clay County more than 24,000 staff members, and superintendent position and was nominatAddison Davis is loving every minute. ed for national awards.

He had two weeks before the The Davis family will make COVID-19 restrictions forced the closing Hillsborough County home starting this of schools through at least Friday, May 1, summer and includes his wife, Natalie, and he didn’t waste a minute. who works in the Insurance business, “Before the virus hit, I had cleared my and two daughters, including one who will schedule from 7:30-12 Noon every day to be a high school freshman in the fall and get into the schools and meet teachers plays travel volleyball and a daughter who and students,” said Davis, who says that is a freshman softball player at the even in that short period of time, he University of Central Florida. learned that the Hillsborough County staff For more information or to reach is filled with high-quality, skilled teachers Davis, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

By Gwen Rollings

By Marie Gilmore

NEWLY RENOVATED

10% OFF

entire purchase

Sunflower Cafe 3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico 813-65-SUSHI

Only valid with regular menu. With this coupon.

Must present before submitting payment.

Before tax. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers Offer expires 1/31/2021

3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Valrico (Located in the SteinMart Plaza)

813-65-SUSHI

Mon - Fri 11:30-2:30 & 5-9 | Sat 12-9 Sundays 12-8:30 (Serving lunch until 3 p.m.)

813-689-8131 • 3159 E. State Road 60 - Valrico

Page 26

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 1

Year In Review - Updates On The Top Stories From 2020 School District Offers Once Weekly Meal & Snack Pickups For Students

Area Booster Group Organizes Meal Donations For Essential Worker Delivery

Throughout 2020, These meals will Hillsborough County include one pound of Public Schools and the lunch meat, one loaf of United bread, milk, juice and States Department nutritious snacks for the of Agriculture (USDA) week. The Grab-and-Go worked together to sites have had a tremenmake sure that students dous impact on our comwere receiving food. In munity, providing more addition to summer than 1 million meals so far Pictured is Hillsborough County Superintendent of pickups, the USDA for students during this School Addison Davis pledged to fund free extended closure. participating in the Grab-andmeals for all students “Our district’s goal is Go lunch program distribution earlier this month. throughout the 2020-21 to ensure every learner school year. has access to nutritious meals, even “We know that the students need when they are not physically at school,” fuel to be successful in the classroom said Arja. and ensuring students have the prop“This decision demonstrates care er nutrition will help the child as a from our organization. By reducing the whole,” said Department Manager of number of contact points within our comMedia Outreach Erin Maloney. munity, we will eliminate immediate conOriginal story printed May 2020. cerns and continue to develop strategies “As Hillsborough County Public that protect our students, employees and Schools (HCPS) continues to navigate parents. I am excited that we will be CDC recommendations for social distanc- extending nutritious meals to our students ing and the state’s stay-at-home order, in a manner that promotes and fosters our district is committed to keeping our safety. Our once-a-week stop will give students, families and our staff safe,” said students a weekly supply of food that will Tanya Arja, HCPS media spokesperson. assist them with remaining sharp during In April, the district changed its Grab- the e-Learning process. Our district’s and-Go meal distribution practices to min- effort will continue to evolve as we seek imize contact between families and staff. to identify proactive solutions to assist our Families will be able to pick up a community,” stated Hillsborough County week’s worth of food once a week Public Schools Superintendent Addison instead of traveling to a site every day.

Davis.

Families can pick up the meals every Meals are available to ALL children Wednesday between 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The 18 years old and younger as well as studistrict will continue to offer the Grab-and- dents with special needs under the age of Go meals at 147 school sites. For loca21. For additional information, please visit tions, visit www.HillsboroughSchools.org.

HillsboroughSchools.org.

you can do is help someone else,” said Trimborn.

She quickly went to work motivating her family and soccer players to start writing thank-you cards and letters to emergency workers and seniors, but then decided that she could use her connections to do more.

“I realized that there are The Newsome High School Athletic Boosters are many heroes in tough times, not one of many groups that recently came together to just the obvious ones,” she provide meals to local healthcare workers. explained. Trimborn’s first call Many residents came together in was to Jill Lansky, physician and 2020 to help those in need and thank providers relations director for women’s those working the front lines. Thanks services at Brandon Regional Hospital, to to donations from her customers, identify the hospital units in most need of Peggy Davenport of Davenport’s Daily support.

Delights was able to donate at least “Jill was so paramount in us pulling 2,000 meals to essential workers at the meals off and has spent countless local hospitals, the elderly and people hours organizing, identifying units in need, in need. Although Davenport stopped delivering most meals, sending out follow collecting money through her website up pictures,” said Trimborn. in August, the business is still donatDavenport’s Daily Delight’s owner, ing meals when there is a need and Peggy Davenport, has been donating will continue to do so. meals since the crisis started in late Original story printed June 2020.

March and has set up a donation form on FishHawk resident Tina Trimborn has her business website so that individuals made a big impact over the last few can easily give towards a meal for a frontweeks. Trimborn, physician and providers line worker or resident in need. relations director for Behavioral Health “We can’t imagine these healthcare Services at HCA -Brandon Regional and heroes going to work everyday and then Tampa Community Hospitals and quarantining away from their families to Newsome High School’s girls soccer protect others,” said Davenport. coach, is using her connections in the To learn more about Davenport’s community to feed local heroes while Daily Delights, visit www.davenportsdailysupporting area restaurants. delights.com.

“When the crisis hit, I immediately To sign up to help, email her at thought of my dad’s philosophy, that christina.trimborn@hca.healthcare.com. when you are struggling, the best thing

By Kate Quesada

By Kate Quesada

January 2021

Page 27

Valrico Edition

Year In Review - Updates On The Top Stories From 2020 ECHO In Brandon Establishes Its First Summer Youth Leadership Program

Facebook Restaurant Group Helps Restaurants And Attracts Thousands

A total of 48 nine-week program students particiwill begin on Monday, pated in the ECHO June 1 and end on Youth Leadership Friday, July 31, offerProgram, which ing students the was called a great chance to earn comsuccess by leadmunity service hours ers. The students and learn about served a total of poverty.

2,083 hours in During the quarJune and July of antine months, Student volunteers assisting with 2020 and helped moving boxes of food from a food drive ECHO shifted to an at ECHO’s warehouse. to distribute food, emergency food dissort donations and contribute to the tribution plan in order to cater to the general running of the center. needs of the community while following “We are hoping to run a form of social distancing recommendations. the Youth Leadership Program durThe Youth Leadership Program was ing the summer of 2021 but are not born in an effort to expose new volunsure yet what it will look like,” said teers to ECHO. Savanna Thompson, development According to ECHO’s executive coordinator. “Because our normal director, Eleanor Saunders, this sumvolunteers are back serving with us mer season will likely be very busy for once again, our need for the proECHO, which offers a wide variety of gram is not as high, but we honestly assistance and resources to people had so much fun with the students residing in Hillsborough County who and it was so good to introduce stusuffered from a recent emergency. dents to the great need in the comThe 75 students in this program will munity. So, we will likely have some commit to one day a week from 8:30 form of the program, but are not a.m.-3 p.m. Several trainings will be sure what it will look like quite yet.” provided to teach students about core Visit www.echofl.org for more inforissues and lessons on generational mation. poverty, what causes it, what ECHO Original story printed June 2020. does and more. Students will also work Students ages 15 to 21 who have on team projects, assist with running an interest in developing leadership the Back to School Community Bash skills through serving their community and participate in a team fundraising will get an opportunity to accomplish competition. that this summer with ECHO’s Visit https://echofl.org. ECHO is (Emergency Care Help Organization) located at 507 N. Parsons Ave. in new Youth Leadership Program. This Brandon. Call 685-0935 to learn more.

The Restaurants in Wade started the Greater Brandon spreading the word and Tampa Area about the group through Offering Delivery and her family and real Take Out group has estate contacts and it stayed active through quickly gained momen2020, even with restautum. rants now open at full “This community is capacity. close-knit and will rally The group now has for what they believe in,” more than 15,700 memshe said. “We all want bers, with participants our neighbors and sharing favorite restaufriends to survive this rant specials and deals black swan.”

FishHawk resident Rebecca in addition to giveIn addition to posts Long was recognized by the aways. from residents and Restaurants in Greater Brandon Founder Brenda & Tampa Area Offering Delivery restaurant owners about & Take Out Facebook page on favorite dishes and recently stated, “I am Mother’s Day. thrilled at how much deals, members also this page has caught on in our area. I started posting giveaways and contests think we have supported our local and rallying donations to provide food to restaurants in their time of need.” essential workers and recognition of sinOriginal story printed June 2020. gle parents on Mother’s Day. Local realtor Brenda Wade had an But the best thing for Wade about the idea last month that brightened the lives group is how it has brought the communiof thousands of quarantined residents ty together. while helping restaurants through some “I have been so impressed by how hard times. positive everyone has been and how they Wade set up the private Facebook have rallied when they saw a need,” she group ‘Restaurants in Greater Brandon & said. “I feel we have added value to some Tampa Area Offering Delivery & Take Out’ folks that needed us.” and within days it had thousands of fol“I see us continuing to support them lowers and hundreds of posts a week and using it to promote the independent offering support to local restaurants. food providers,” she explained. “We have “I eat out frequently and was still lots of hidden gems in our community. grabbing takeout and noticed how terribly There are ones I didn’t know about and I slow the restaurants were,” said Wade. “I think it’s important to support local.” just wanted to help. I had a friend in Search for ‘Restaurants in Greater Canada that had started a group and I felt Brandon & Tampa Area Offering Delivery we should try it here.” & Take Out’ on Facebook to learn more.

By Tatiana Ortiz

By Kate Quesada

813.433.4047

www.ajwestfallco.com licensed bonded insured In Business Over 20 Years

FULL SERVICE CLEANING COMPANY

Residential Commercial Moving/Home Sale Presentation Tenant Turnover

TELEMEDICINE AVAILABLE!

NO RESTART FEE

Page 28

Volume 18, Issue 1

Valrico Edition

Year In Review - Updates On The Top Stories From 2020 Land Code Revision Hearings Will Discuss HOA Rules To Allow Hens On Properties

Wingspread Farm In Valrico Honored To Be Selected For 2019 Best Of Valrico Award

feature of country living may be coming home to roost on a culde-sac near you.

A revision to the county’s land use code allowing hens on residential property is under consideration by the Hillsborough County Commission. The proposed ordinance would allow in total up to five caged hens and pullets to be kept in a backyard.

Backyard fowl may take their place alongside furry friends in homes in unincorporated Roosters would not be permitHillsborough County as commissioners consider ted. allowing hens on residential property.

Besides the companionship The Board of County chickens can offer, supporters of the Commissioners in September ordinance tout the food value backyard approved changes that allow people fowl can provide, especially during an to have backyard chickens in resiemergency situation. However, slaughdential neighborhoods. According tering the birds or selling their eggs to Hillsborough County’s Todd on-site are among the recommended Pratt, the chickens must be kept in restrictions. enclosed coops at all times, a maxiThe proposal applies to unincorpomum of five hens are allowed and rated Hillsborough County, but for resiroosters are not permitted. There dents living in communities controlled are restrictions on the height and by deed restrictions, what the county size of the coop and on-site slaugh- ends up allowing still has to fly with tering and egg sales are not permit- local homeowner associations, accordted. ing to county officials, who cite the “The changes do not supersede authority that HOAs have under deed restrictions,” said Pratt. “So if Florida law. a neighborhood has deed restricThe proposed revision is being tions that don’t allow chickens, you guided by Commissioner Sandra still can’t have chickens in those Murman, who represents District 1. neighborhoods.”

She said having a few chickens Original story printed July 2020. around a home has become a benefiUnincorporated Hillsborough cial lifestyle trend and that residents in County has changed dramatically in unincorporated areas should have a recent years, evolving from predomichance to enjoy it. nantly rural to notably suburban as For details, visit hillsboroughcounhousing tracts replace farms, but one ty.org.

Ken and Andrea Each year, the Schielka are excited Valrico Award and proud to say Program identifies that their farm has companies that have won the 2020 Best achieved exceptional of Valrico Award in marketing success in the Farm category. their community and And in the face of business category, the challenges prefocusing on quality, sented this year, not quantity. These Wingspread Farm are local companies has adapted and that enhance the posiKen and Andrea Schielka were grown well. tive image of small shocked and honored when they To social disbusiness through realized they won the 2019 Best of Valrico Award in the Farm category. tance and prevent service to their cuscontact, a drive-through service was tomers and our community, and they help so guests can see what’s available make the Valrico area a great place to and pick up purchases. Wingspread work, live and play in.

Farm also has several new things, The husband and wife team including cheeses, sweet breads, designed, built and run the farm themsweet rolls, golden dumplings, jams, selves. It has nearly 200 laying chickens jellies and holiday items. and produces raw honey, jams, People can still look around the Hungarian smoked sausages, preserves, farm so they can rest and relax—while avocados, tomatoes, peppers, cucumwearing masks, of course. The farm bers and more. also has 85 new chickens, with more The Hungarian-themed farm’s concoming in six months. venient location, casual atmosphere, The couple also bought a building cleanliness and fresh, high-quality prodthat will be used as a retirement home ucts keep people coming, and some of sorts for chickens too old to lay bring their kids and grandkids along for a eggs so they can relax and live the fun time, like walking around the farm good life. while feeding the chickens.

Original story printed February Farm tours are available; call or text 2020.

361-1546 for an appointment.

Two local farmers in Valrico, Ken and Wingspread Farm can be found on 3003 Andrea Schielka, owners of Wingspread Pearson Rd. in Valrico, open from 9 a.m.Farm, were very excited and honored 5 p.m. Mon-Wed and from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. when they were told that they won the Thurs-Sun. 2019 Best of Valrico Award in the Farm Visit https://wingspread.farm/ for category. more information.

By Brad Stager

By Taylor Wells

v

January 2021

Page 29

Valrico Edition

Year In Review - Updates On The Top Stories From 2020 School District Uses Referendum Dollars For $121 Million In AC Improvement Projects

Mother Of Local Hero Queena Releases A Memoir To Share Inspirational Journey

As of dents and staff December physically off 2020, campuses since Hillsborough March, it has County Public allowed construcSchools had tion crews collected $219 access to million from get ahead of the referenschedule on dum. Workers planned major completed 188 A/C and roofing projects and projects in our Randall Middle and Bevis Elementary Schools 120 were in schools. Despite are benefitting from the money raised from Hillsborough County’s half-penny tax with progress. the slowdown of improvements this summer.

There are some equipment 1,785 projects planned over the 10 delivery and lower-than-projected sales years of the referendum. So far, $23 tax revenue, our district is still on track to million has been spent on safety and planned projected for this year.” security and $25 million on technoloTwenty-six schools throughout the gy updates. Of all the money, 21 percounty received improvements this sumcent has been spent with small and mer, including Randall Middle and Bevis minority-owned businesses. There are Elementary schools.

14 major projects planned in the According to Randall Principal Claire county for the summer of 2021.

Mawhinney, the work was extensive in Original story printed August some areas of the school with the 2020. replacement of air handlers and ductThe Hillsborough County School work in multiple areas.

District (HCSD) used the student break “The company lead says that the to perform many much-needed upgrades A/C will be ready for students when they thanks to funds from the half-penny sales arrive,” she explained. tax approved by voters in late 2018.

“Having a comfortable learning enviSchools throughout the county, including ronment is essential.” two in the FishHawk area, received air The referendum proceeds can be conditioning improvements since the stu- used only for permanent capital purchasdents left the buildings in March. es including buildings, maintenance, “Thanks to the taxpayers of technology and security.

Hillsborough County, our district has To learn more, visit invested more than $121 million to www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. A list of projects can address essential needs in our schools,” be found at hillsboroughschools.org/citisaid HCSD’s Erin Maloney. “With stuzenoversight.

The Life She Once the unending grace of God, Knew: The Incredible True provide us with the power to Story of Queena, the do things we never thought Bloomingdale Library possible.

Attack Survivor became The book is called The available for purchase in Life She Once Knew: The November 2020, published Incredible True Story of

by Ambassador Queena, The Bloomingdale International.

Library Attack Survivor. The The book is valued at book’s release date is $16.99 but is free when you 11/10/2020, but it is now donate a gift amount of $30 available through the publish(for one book), or more er’s website Ambassador Vanna Nguyen, mother International, Amazon and through PayPal from of Queena Phu, the Queena’s website.

Bloomingdale Library Goodreads for preorder.

Queena and her mothIt will soon be available Attack Victim, will release a memoir about for preorder to all local book er, Vanna, scheduled her life, faith and her speaking events throughretailers. “We have read the amazing daughter, out the area, spreading the whole book draft to Queena Queena. word about the book and and she’s very focused and Queena’s story. For more information, interested about all the details in the book visit https://thelifesheonceknew.com/. especially information about her brain Original story printed August damage and coma as she doesn’t really 2020. remember,” Nguyen said.

Queena Phu may be known as the Nguyen hopes her memoir will Bloomingdale Library Attack Victim, but to inspire people from around the world, “I those of us in the Brandon community, am hoping to see the book can be pubQueena is a hero. She is a vibrant, young lished in different languages so it can prolady that was affected by traumatic brain vide hope to the downtrodden around the injury at the age of 18 in April of 2008. world,” Nguyen said. “My wish is 100 perThe injury left her with many disabilities cent of the book or any related proceeds and changed her life forever. can support ongoing expenses through Queena’s mom, Vanna Nguyen is Hope Heals The Brain, Inc. and Queena’s preparing to release a memoir about her Medical Trust Fund. We’re glad God life, faith and her amazing daughter, choose Ambassador for publishing our Queena. “I want to share my struggles in book and sharing our inspirational stories life, including this heartbreaking attack on to the world. We are also working on a Queena,” Nguyen said. “I want to share movie adaptation, but we have not yet my life’s story to create a living testament chosen a production company.” Find the to the notion that faith, community, and book on Amazon or Goodreads.

By Kate Quesada

By Libby Hopkins

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN BRANDON! WE ARE OPEN FOR YOU!!

FAMILY MEALS $39.95. • SANGRIA QT. $20 11:00 am - 8:00 pm | Pick up and Delivery Bottled Wine Available with Pick Up orders!

702 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon • 813-685-0502 • www.laseptimacafe.com Mon. - Sat. 11am. - 8pm. • Closed Sunday

Neeed A Business Attorne n y?

Rory B. Weiner, P.A. .

813-681-3300 Star a Bus

w w

635 W W.. Lumsden Road, Brandon by appppointment onllyy) Bank of America Plaza (by 101 E E. Kennedy Blvd., Suite 1430, 1430 T Taampa w RoryW iner. in .com om

Page 30

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 1

Year In Review - Updates On The Top Stories From 2020 Coworkers Rally Around TECO Lineman During COVID Battle, #goffstrong

Wayne Goff is a supervisor for the Linemen Department at the Palm River TECO office and when he recently became infected with COVID-19, the linemen, his family and his church came together to pray for a full recovery.

Wayne Goff is back to work as supervisor for the Linemen Department at the Palm River TECO office this past October. “He is doing good,” Tracie Goff said.

“He gets a little tired every now and then, but all of the love, prayers and support he got from our family and our TECO family has helped he so much,” she said.

“When he saw the parade of linemen drive by our house, we both cried happy tears because it was so emotional for us knowing so many people were supporting Wayne in his recovery.”

TECO recently made a video of Wayne’s battle with COVID-19 to share with other TECO employees to thank them for their support of Wayne. The video features Wayne and Tracie telling their stories of Wayne’s battle with COVID and the severity of the virus.

Original story printed August 2020.

Wayne Goff has been a loved and respected employee of TECO for more than 36 years. He is a supervisor for the Linemen Department at the Palm River TECO office and when he recently became infected with COVID-19, the linemen, his family and his church came together to pray for a full recovery.

“Wayne loves his job and he is well respected by everyone,” said Tracie Goff, Wayne’s wife. “The linemen are like a brotherhood and they stick together. When Wayne got sick, our family never had to worry about needing anything because all of the linemen sent me flowers and food or they were calling to check on us to see if we needed anything.”

When Wayne became ill on June 21, Tracie and their family turned to their family motto for strength.

“Wayne has a tattoo that says #goffstrong and he had the tattoo done in honor of his father who passed away,” Tracie said. “Every time we

01/31/2021

Residential • Commercial Exterior Repaint Specialists

WE TAKE THE PAIN OUT OF PAINTING, AND PUT THE WO BACK IN WONDERFUL!

813-670-8565 License #L20000250797

thought we were going to lose Wayne’s dad, he would bounce back. We would say ‘Goff Strong.’

It’s kind of our way to say ‘keep going’ or ‘keeping fighting.’”

While Wayne was at South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City, his battle worsened with COVID-19 and he ended up in ICU on a ventilator. The Goff family was in fear of losing Wayne.

On June 28, Wayne’s COVID-19 numbers spiked. He crashed twice and his kidneys were starting to shut down. “I called our pastor and asked him to let our congregation know that Wayne had COVID and to say his name and to ask for prayer for him during the church’s live streaming service,” Tracie said.

“I told the nurses at the hospital to tell Wayne ‘Goff Strong’ so he would fight.” On Sunday night, Wayne sat up in bed and began to remove his tubes and IVs. “Prayer is what made Wayne start to get bet-

ter,” Tracie said.

As word spread through TECO about Wayne fighting his COVID-19 battle, the linemen started putting #goffstrong on their bucket trucks in honor of Wayne.

“The office Wayne works out of even posted a banner on the building that said ‘#goffstrong,’” Tracie said. “I took all the pictures the linemen sent me, the pictures of the banner at the TECO office and made a little video. I sent it to Wayne so he could see how much everyone cares for him and how they are pulling together for him, so he continued to fight and get better.”

Wayne came home from the hospital on July 11. He is getting stronger everyday and has a whole new outlook on life. “The power of prayer and #goffstrong is what made Wayne get better,” Tracie said. “All of this support has inspired all of our spirits.”

January 2021

Page 31

Valrico Edition

Year In Review - Updates On The Top Stories From 2020 Just Around The Corner, An Annual Update From Boker’s Corner

By Brian Bokor

Pinecrest Rd., the Bell Shoals Executive Plaza continues to grow and will be adding additional office space throughout 2021.

The list of dining and shopping openings in 2020 on Bloomingdale Ave. alone was staggering with the Bin + Board in Kings Row and Datz in Winthrop sharing top bill, followed closely by Donovan’s Meatery, Brandon Burgers, Maple Street Biscuit Company, Katana Japanese Express, Gasparilla Pizzeria & Growlers and Heights Meat Market. On top if this, Bloomingdale Square went through a major overhaul in 2020 by adding the new Publix, Home Centric, Chicken Salad Chick, Jersey Mike’s, First Watch, Beef O’Brady’s, GNC and Flip Flop Shops with LA Fitness and The UPS Store coming after the new year. Additionally, Heroes Paradise opened just north of Bloomingdale Square on Knowles Rd.,

offering families a variety of indoor and outdoor events and games, including laser and archery tag, rock wall climbing, RC (remote control) tracks and much more.

In the Gibsonton/Riverview area near the Alafia River, the Tiki Docks Bar & Grill opening topped the long list of new restaurants and stores in this area, including Eggs Up Grill, Bubbakoo’s, Wendy’s, Waffle House, Arby’s, Cali Cafe and Pink Door Bakery. The Cracker Barrel and soon McAlister’s Deli at Gibsonton and the I-75 interchange also ended high on the list, with an honorable mention given to Culver’s on Boyette Rd., Fields and Table on Balm Riverview Rd., ALDI at the U.S. 301/Balm Riverview Rd. intersection and Alafia Brewing Company on U.S. 41, which are all in various stages of construction.

Planning continues on the new 25acre Riverview Regional Park that will be

located on Riverview Dr. and the Alafia River between U.S. 301 and I75 with the new Riverview Library just about ready to open its doors on Balm Riverview Rd. The Riverview Marina has cleared land and finalized plans for its dry dock facilities along with a private restaurant on the premises. All indications point to AdventHealth breaking ground sometime next year on the 23-acre hospital set to be built on U.S. 301, just north of Boyette Rd. Further south in the Big Bend Rd. area of Riverview, aside from the much-needed Big Bend Rd./I-75 intersection makeover, the long-anticipated Chick-fil-A took the top spot along with Mandela’s Italian Kitchen and Cold Stone Creamery in the Summerfield area. Additionally, both ALDI and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop opened on Big Bend Rd. with the proposed 500,000 sq. ft.

Home Depot Distribution Facility near U.S. 41 still in the formative stages.

Wrapping things up, in Apollo Beach, the Waterset area’s new Starbucks, approved for months yet still not having broken ground, garnered the most attention with a recently announced ABC store and CubeSmart Storage being added to the same plaza, west of U.S. 41.

The Belmont area, which will be accessible from Apollo Beach via the new I-75 flyover, is also seeing its share of development with the new Publix and proposed 7-Eleven, Rita’s Italian Ice, Great Clips, Nail Dior Lounge, Domino’s and, as of the last update, Cajun Crab House all being added at the U.S. 301 and Paseo Al Mar Blvd. intersection.

AJ’s Fine Wines & Liquor B We

rin g

Life

In this year of unprecedented setbacks, many new restaurants, stores and entertainment options opened throughout Southeastern Hillsborough County, along with many others approved or currently under construction. We would like to highlight some of the most discussed developments in this year-end review.

Sincere apologies given to any new business that opened in 2020 that were not mentioned in this article, as I am sure there were many that we unintentionally missed.

In the Greater Brandon area, much of the new activity centered around Falkenburg Rd. with the opening of the 6,000 sq. ft. Cigars International, featuring over 1,300 cigar brands along with a full-service bar and spacious outdoor patio; Texas Roadhouse and soon Bubba’s 33 at the Causeway Blvd. intersection; and the relocation of Bootleggers Brewing Co. Mahana Fresh opened in Regency Square, Bravo Supermarket on Providence Rd. as well as Brandon Burgers, Panda Express, Bolay and The Dog Patch pet daycare along S.R. 60.

Projects approved or under construction include Sprouts in Lake Brandon Village and a RaceTrac gas station at the Kings Ave. and Lumsden Rd. intersection.

Coca-Cola Florida has been confirmed to be following through with plans to develop the 158-acre parcel at the U.S. 301 and Selmon Crosstown Expressway intersection by adding 1.3 million sq. ft. of development to house its new operations facility, which will include a warehouse, distribution and packaging facility along with office headquarters, retail shops and possibly a hotel. At Lithia

ur Spirits In Yo

Craft Beers

3443 Lithia Pinecrest Road

at the corner of Lithia-Pinecrest & Bloomingdale in the Publix Plaza

813-654-6488

BUY HERE / SMOKE HERE

Neighborhood Liquor Store with Cigars

HAVE A DRINK ON OUR PATIO BAR

FINE WINES Plumpjack Cakebread Cade Nickel & Nickel and MORE!

• Self-serve Bar • Walk-in Humidor • Walk-in Beer Cooler • Craft Beers • Gluten Free Beers • Organic Beers • Variety of IPA’s • Stouts • Non-alcholic Beers Available • Specializing in Fine Wines • Special Orders Upon Request • Call About Delivery

We

Thank You

for your business the past 17 years & look forward to your continued support of our small business.

Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 10am - 10pm Fri. - Sat. 10am - 11pm Sun. 11am - 8pm

Page 32

Valrico Edition

Volume 18, Issue 1