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April 2016 Volume 11, Issue 4 Ph: 657-2418
See Page 31 C E L E B R A T I N G
1 5
Y E A R S
O F
P U B L I S H I N G
Brandon Regional Hospital Begins $60M Emergency Room Expansion Project
By Kathy L. Collins
Community leaders and hospital dignitaries gathered last month to cut the ribbon on Brandon Regional Hospital’s newly expanded emergency room.
Hospital is the fifth busiest ER in the state of Florida. The hospital serves approximately 120,000 patients each year. To keep up with patient demands and needs, the hospital allocated 60 million dollars to a multi-phase expansion. Brandon Regional Hospital CEO, Bland Eng said, “This is a bold step for the hospital to take for the residents of Brandon. What a gem of a community Brandon is. This expansion is the transformation from the past to the future. We are stepping into the future. A hospital’s ER is the front door of the hospital. Now the surroundings and physical environment of the hospital will be a mirror image of the care given by exceptional healthcare workers at Brandon Regional Hospital.” Brandon Regional Hospital has been providing emergency care to families of the greater Brandon area since 1977. It should be noted that during the construction of the massive expansion, the hospital stayed open and there was no reduction in services or capabilities. Brandon Regional Hospital is located at 119 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. Visit www.Brandonregionalhospital.com.
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Recently the community gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony at Brandon Regional Hospital’s new Emergency Room (ER). Attendees were offered tours of the newly expanded facility. Phase one of the three phase $60 million expansion will open in April. The first phase adds 22,000 sq. ft., 40 new exam rooms including an area for pediatrics and a new main entrance for easier access. The new ER entrance is off of Oakfield Drive. The newly completed phase also includes state-of-the-art trauma rooms, private patient rooms where nurses can chart on computers in the room, two new X-Ray machines, two additional 64-slice CT machines and upgraded ultrasound equipment. Phase two, which will open in January 2017, will have eight new exam rooms, four new trauma rooms, centrally located imaging and a new ambulance entrance with helipad. Phase three, which will open in May 2017, will include a dedicated 16 room pediatric department and dedicated pediatric emergency room entrance. When completed, 45,000 sq. ft. will have been added. Brandon Regional
Photo by Patricia Tracy
On Tuesday, April 12 Portillo's Hot Dogs officially opened its doors to the first Florida Portillo's location in Brandon. The Brandon Portillo's is the 42nd Portillo's location. Founder Dick Portillo attended and thanked fans for their support over the last 53 years. The new location is at 1748 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. Visit www.portillos.com or call 210-8190.
P O S I T I V E
C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
Latino’s Supermarket Expands With Newly Opened Latino’s Fresh Market
By Tatiana Ortiz
Owner of Latino’s Supermarket, William Guzman, recently expanded his business with a new building, Latino’s Fresh Market.
Are you in the mood for a tasty and enjoyable experience with a diverse ethnic appeal? Owner William Guzman from the Latino’s Supermarket in Valrico has recently expanded his business and recently opened an additional building, Latino’s Fresh Market, right around the corner. Latino’s Supermarket has been in business since 1995 and is not a franchise. “It is the only one in the area,” said Guzman. The supermarket currently has fresh produce, fresh meat, grocery, deli, a bakery and Latin hot foods. Seating is available for those who choose to dine in. Customers from various backgrounds can get a glimpse of what it is like to be back in their own country while shopping, conversing or grabbing a bite to eat. “I want customers to know that this is a place where they can feel welcome and at home,” said Guzman. Not only is it a supermarket, but the business provides various services for its customers such as catering for weddings, birthdays, etc. There is an area of the store which sells jewelry. Customers can order products online and have them delivered to their house with a minimum purchase of $40, along with up to a $20 delivery depending on the traveling distance. Customers can purchase food items for the holidays as well. Furthermore, the expansion of the market creates better parking for its cus-
tomers, along with a fresh fish market and other services. “We plan on having car insurance and health insurance that customers can obtain,” said Guzman. Along with that, the store has better wholesale and retail prices for customers. ”The expansion incorporates one bakery that will reflect an array of Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican Republic, Colombian, and Mexican food products,” said Guzman. Latino’s Fresh Market is now open. For more information, visit www.latinossupermarket.biz or call 685-9110. Located at 1608 E. SR 60 in Valrico, the hours of operation are Monday through Saturday 7 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Call 685-9110.
In This Issue HOA HOT TOPICS.................................PG 7 HEALTHY HEARING EXPO....................PG 10 KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY....................PG 11 VINE TO WINE FUNDRAISER...............PG 13 TASTE OF BRANDON...........................PG 22 CHALKLINES.........................................PG 32
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT..................PG 43 SPORTS CONNECTION........................PG 46
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Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
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Page 3
Brandon Edition
Annual “Be A Hero” Luncheon To Support A Kid’s Place
By Kathy L. Collins
A Kid’s Place Annual Luncheon is set to take place on Friday, May 13 at TPepin Hospitality Centre in Tampa.
A Kid’s Place in Brandon is holding its Be a Hero Annual Luncheon on Friday, May 13. Registration begins at 11:15 a.m. and the lunch and program begin at 12 p.m. The Annual Luncheon, presented by the MacKinnon Family Foundation, will be held at the TPepin Hospitality Centre located at 4121 N. 50th St. in Tampa. Tickets to the lunch are $50 per person and sponsorships are available. A Kid’s Place provides a safe, stable and loving environment for abused, abandoned and neglected children from birth to 17 years of age. The primary focus is to keep siblings together in a homelike atmosphere with live-in house parents. Since it opened, A Kid’s Place has provided over 125,000 bed nights for children. This year, the luncheon is hosted by Cathy Unruh, a friend of the late Dottie Berger MacKinnon, founder of A Kid’s Place. Attendees to the luncheon will be inspired by a video showing the experiences of a foster child. According to Samantha Mellen, development manager
for A Kid’s Place, “The traumas endured by abused and neglected children affect their lives long after they enter foster care. These traumas impact their placement in the foster system and create challenges to caregivers, social workers, adoptive parents and foster parents.” A Kid’s Place hopes to raise $100,000 at this year’s luncheon, which will feature a sit down lunch with food prepared by Puff ‘n Stuff Catering. Mellen said, “Funds raised will be used to support the programs offered at A Kid’s Place such as Siblings Connected program, which provides loving house parents for the children, education and therapeutic services, independent living opportunities, food and outings. The children in our care have experienced very real trauma, and their first need is for healing. At A Kid’s Place, that healing can take place in the safety and security of a loving home where they can be with their brothers and sisters.” A Kid’s Place offers tours for those interested in becoming involved. These can be scheduled by contacting the Development Department at 381-3839 or welcome@akidsplacetb.org. A Kid’s Place is located at 1715 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. For more information on A Kid’s Place and to get tickets to the Be a Hero Annual Luncheon, visit www.akidsplacetb.org.
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Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
SPRING STYLE EVENT
Local Julliard Music School Alumna Seeks Performance Opportunities
By Andria Barrios
Lalan Parrott, one of the youngest students accepted to Julliard Music School, resides in Brandon and is seeking performance opportunities.
It may be a surprise to discover that one of the youngest students ever accepted into Julliard Music School resides right here in Brandon. Though she was born in Oklahoma City, educated in New York City, and performed in both New York City and Colorado for several years, life has brought Lalan Parrott to the local community where she desires to continue performing piano. “My first musical experience came when I heard a tune on the radio and subsequently played it by ear on the neighbor’s piano,” said Parrott. “This was around age three.” Her family, raised in the Depression era, recognized her talent at a young age and she was instructed by a local piano teacher who, after years of study, arranged a Julliard audition. The school then had a committee who frequently
travelled across the country in order to recognize talent in faraway regions. When they came to Parrott’s town and heard her performance, they accepted the young student at the age of 17 in 1947. At Julliard, Parrott sat under many teachers from the famous Olfa Samaroff to Rosina Lhevinne. In 1953, she graduated with a Master’s to pursue a career as a concert pianist. Playing for Radio City Music Hall was her first gig, including playing for the Rockettes’ rehearsals. Parrott’s impressive New York career lasted over 60 years. Then, because of her passion for the Midwest, she relocated to Colorado where she formed a chamber music society called the “Roaring Fork Chamber Players.” Many other renowned concerts and collaborations even led her to perform for President Carter at the White House in 1980, and again at the U.S. Capitol in 1990. Throughout her career, Parrott performed at the 1988 Olympic games in Seoul, Korea, played for Broadway, as well as worked for various ballet companies. She also played in jingles and worked on film soundtracks. The musician enjoys her life outside of music including her family of two children and seven grandchildren, jogging and outdoor activities. With the Brandon area as her current home, Parrott is eager to continue playing any genre of music for local functions and parties. “She is starving for opportunities to play,” said Rebecca Douglas, daughter-inlaw. To arrange this or to inquire about taking advanced private lessons from Parrott, contact giftofpiano@aol.com.
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April 2016
Page 5
Brandon Edition
Be A Hero For Life Walk/Run To Benefit LifeCare Network
HCSO Celebrates Grand Opening Of Homeless Initiative Community Outreach Center
The registration fee for the 5K includes a Dri-Fit shirt, finisher medal and chip to chip timing. The Kids Fun Run includes a super hero cape and a medal. All participants are encouraged to help LifeCare reach its fundraising goal by getting friends and family to sponsor them. Participants can create a FundEasy page which is an easy online way to fundraise. Printed sponsorship forms are also available. LifeCare Network’s mission is to lead those it Brayan and Shelby came serves to the unconditional to Choices Women's Center committed their love of Christ as it protects hearts to Christ during the sanctity of human life, pre-marital classes, married in August 2015 and soon after promotes biblical sexuality, celebrated the birth of baby Isabella. and proclaims God’s plan LifeCare Network invites the commu- for marriage and the family. It is a nity to join in for its community Annual 501(C)(3) non-profit outreach ministry Walk/Run For Their Life on Saturday, serving the greater Brandon community May 7. This year the theme of the event since 1987 and SouthShore since 2012. is “Be a Hero for Life!” Participants can Through compassionate care, education, feel free to come dressed as their favorite counseling, practical assistance, and super hero. This year in addition to the community networking, support is providwalk will be its second annual 5K race. ed to teens, women, couples and families This year a Kids Super Fun Run has who are facing the challenge of an been added. unplanned pregnancy as well as hope The location will be at Westfield and healing to those suffering from the Brandon at 500 S. Gornto Lake Rd. in heartbreak of a past abortion. Brandon. The event starts in the field The community’s support will help near the Sears parking lot. LifeCare & Choices Women’s Centers Family Fun Begins at 7 a.m., the 5K continue assisting many teens, women at 7:30 a.m. and a Rally at 8:30 a.m. At 9 and couples who are facing the chala.m. the Kids Fun Run will begin and at lenges of unplanned pregnancies in the 9:15 a.m. the 1 Mile begins (an easy community. Visit www.LifeCareNetwork. route for those with strollers to wheelnet for more information or to register for chairs). People of all ages can participate. the walk, 5K or Kids Fun Run. Raise There will be activities for the whole $100 and receive a free T- shirt, raise family including bounce houses, face over $250 and you will be entered into a painting, balloons and a live band. drawing for an Apple Watch.
Community district in the county,” members, local govBrown said, adding ernment officials and that while working in members of the conjunction with sevHillsborough County eral social agencies, Sheriff’s Office the program has (HCSO) staff were assisted more than on hand last month 500 homeless indito celebrate the viduals to be placed grand opening of a in temporary housing brand new Homeless or shelters and have Outreach Center. permanently housed Located at 3671 W. more than 200 Waters Ave. in the homeless individuals Fountain Oaks with their family HCSO Major Chad Chronister thanks Plaza in Tampa, the members. local organizations at the grand opening new facility will be Brown menof its new Homeless Outreach Center. staffed with deputies tioned that a great and social service workers to provide a number of homeless individuals were home base to connect homeless individ- able to be reunited with their families as uals with the right people in order to help the program covered their travel needs them get back on their feet. by means of the purchase of airline and “On behalf of the more than 4,000 bus tickets. employees of the sheriff’s office, I want Currently HCSO has five deputies to thank each and every one of you for that are working out of each of the everything that you contribute,” said agency’s four district offices covering the HCSO Major Chad Chronister during his entire county. Deputies daily assist the opening comments to a sizable crowd homeless with identification and birth that gathered in support of HCSO’s inicertificates, applications and services for tiative, which began in 2010 after Sheriff Social Security, food assistance, healthDavid Gee’s vision to do more for the care, mental health care and substance homeless in the community. abuse. HCSO Colonel Greg Brown shared “To see the support of the various Gee’s vision and immediately volunprivate organizations and individuals teered to take upon himself the daunting who are interested in helping us and the task of making an impact in the commucounty is just overwhelming,” Brown nity. said, while he also praised local resident “This program started with just one whom he called true volunteers as they deputy, Steve Donaldson, who took this went out of their ways on a personal overwhelming project and built it to what individual basis to support the homeless. it is today, including the five deputies the For more information, visit Sheriff has now assigned to cover every www.hcso.tampa.fl.us.
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Page 6
Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
Local YMCAs Honor Volunteers
By Kathy L. Collins
MADD Seeks Changes To State’s Ignition Interlock Law To Affect All Offenders
By Tamas Mondovics
(From left) David Stamm (North Brandon Y), Jephunneh Hicks (Campo Family Y) and Elijah Bonnett (Tampa YMCA Camp Cristina) were recently honored with Volunteer of the Year awards by their respective Tampa area YMCA.
In February, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA held its annual Regions Community Impact Dinner. The event is an opportunity to bring awareness to what the YMCA does to help kids and families, promote the health and wellbeing of the community, and help give back to neighbors in need. The dinner is also an opportunity to honor and celebrate Volunteers of the Year from area YMCA branches. From the North Brandon Y, David Stamm was selected as Volunteer of the Year. Stamm is a long time member. He serves on the board and was chairman in 2015. Stamm is leading the North Brandon Y’s annual giving campaign. According to Executive Director AJ Hernandez, “He volunteers at all of our branch events. He learned to swim at the Y and truly has a passion for people.” Hernandez gave an example of Stamm’s commitment. “The group exercise classes place a cut-out of him in class when he does not attend because he is so committed, and it is not the same when he is not there,” explained Hernandez. The Volunteer of the Year from the Campo Family Y is Jephunneh Hicks, a
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senior at Bloomingdale High School. Youth and Family Director Alicia Bentley said, “Jephunneh is an outstanding kid. He is a part of the Campo Y’s Leadership Club. Throughout the year he has stepped up and helped with as many events as possible.” Hicks volunteers at many events but mostly with Family Programming events. “Jephunneh was chosen for this award for his outstanding performance in volunteering and his leadership in Leaders Club,” added Bentley. For the Tampa YMCA's Camp Cristina, the Volunteer of the Year is 15year-old Elijah Bonnett. He is a member of the Team Leaders Club and volunteers at Camp Cristina year round. According to Executive Director Mark Battig, “Elijah was chosen because of the number of volunteer hours he puts in at Camp Cristina.” Bonnett gave over 100 volunteer hours in 2015. Bonnett helps with events and works on service projects. Battig said, “Elijah is very instrumental and demonstrates what it means to be a team leader.” For more information on the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA, visit www.tampaymca.org.
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News of traffic fataliAccording to MADD’s ties involving wrong way National Director of State drivers, including the one Government Affairs Frank that took the life of Harris, currently 26 states Hillsborough County require interlocks for all Sheriff’s Deputy John R. offenders with a BAC of .08 Kotfila Jr., of Valrico, is or greater, not including making headlines. Florida. In Florida interlocks According to the Sheriff’s are required for repeat and Office backed by local first-time offenders with a and national data, a BAC of .15, majority of wrong way resulting the traffic crashes are caused halting of by drunk drivers, as was 49,126 the case of Deputy attempts to Mothers Against Kotfilla, whose watch drive drunk (.08 Drunk Driving is ended last month when BAC or more) seeking support to change the Florida’s he was killed by a and 632,460 current ignition interlock law. wrong-way drunk driver attempts to start with a .27 blood alcohol content (BAC) on a vehicle with a .025 BAC. the Crosstown Expressway. “License suspension is not enough Mothers Against Drunk Driving as they are often ignored,” Harris said, (MADD), one of the most influential nonreferring to a recent letter by Colleen profit organizations in America, is clear on Sheehey-Church, MADD National its view of such violent crimes and the President, to lawmakers. organization’s commitment to “end drunk Aside the BAC criteria, under current driving, help fight drugged driving, support law offenders must also wait until convicthe victims of these violent crimes and tion before using an ignition interlock— prevent underage drinking.” and in many cases long after conviction. True to its mission, MADD is seeking “The sooner an interlock is installed support for a recent legislative amendafter a drunk driving offense the more ment to require ignition interlocks for all effective it is,” Harris said. “Florida’s ignifirst-time DUI offenders. An ignition intertion interlock law can be strengthened by lock is a device about the size of a cell removing the long wait between an arrest phone that is wired into the ignition sysand use of these devices.” The proposed tem of a vehicle. A convicted drunk driver amendment from MADD would also allow must blow into the device in order to start the option of interlock prior to conviction. their vehicle. To date, 1.77 million drunk MADD urges residents to let their driving attempts were prevented by this legislators know that they want this law device in the United States. passed. Visit www.madd.org/interlock.
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April 2016
Page 7
Brandon Edition
Local Student Competes In Truffle Themed Cooking Contest In Italy
By Kathy L. Collins
A love of cooking Davis said, “I really is what drives Seffner enjoyed the trip. My native and current favorite part was going Plant City resident truffle hunting and Devin Davis, a student spending a day at the at The Art Institute of Urbani Tartufi factory Tampa. Davis was and their truffle acaderecently invited to parmy.” ticipate in a two week Davis is in his sectraining in Italy and ond year at The Art compete in a truffleInstitute. He is working themed culinary contowards a Bachelor of test. The contest chalArts degree in restaulenged culinary sturant management. He dents to create original hopes to one day be a ideas that feature trufchef/owner of a Tampa fles as a main ingredirestaurant which focusent. es on fine dining and Davis and his farm to table offerings. teammate, Kirsten “My love for food Mathers, were one of cooking started at and Devin Davis of Seffner and Plant seven finalist teams City was awarded a scholarship to home with my mom and travel to Italy and compete in a truf- grandmothers. I am very who were awarded fle themed culinary contest. scholarships by the blessed and attribute my Paolo Urbani Foundation. While in Italy, abilities to God and my family who supthey recreated their truffle-themed ports me in everything I do. My passion recipes, which were judged by a jury of for cooking is driven by the love of food chefs and professionals. The team of and ingredients as well as being able to Davis and Mathers came in second. share that passion of cooking for others. According to Davis, “The whole My philosophy on food is simple: no matpremise of the competition was to use ter what you cook, make it deliciously and and highlight black truffles. We made an put the same amount of passion into it as entrée (rabbit prepared two ways) and a if you were cooking for your family,” David tasting dessert (sweet truffle soufflé). The said. dishes were delicious and complemented The Art Institute of Tampa is a branch each other well. We believe that our origi- of Miami International University of Art nality gave us an edge coupled with the and Design and is located at 4401 N. fact that we highlighted the unique flavor Himes Ave. in Tampa. For more informaof the truffles.” tion, visit www.artinstitutes.edu.
By Nicole Heubusch
How To Host A Community Garage Sale Do you need to get rid of items you don’t need? Maybe your neighbors need to do so as well. Hosting a community garage sale will not only help you make a lot of money, but it can be a great way to bring your HOA community together in the process. Step 1: The first step to take when hosting a community garage sale is to choose a date. You’ll need to find a date that works for almost everyone, and is far enough in advance that you can promote the sale. Step 2: Promote, promote, promote! Make up some flyers about a month ahead of your sale date to pass around to neighboring communities. Include the addresses of participating houses on the flyers. Step 3: Get everything organized. Encourage other participants to prepare the items they want to sell. Go through closets and drawers and pull things out, marking them with prices as you go, so you don’t have to price everything all at once. Step 4: Send out reminders to residents that the community sale is coming up. Do this about a week before the sale. Step 5: Get a few residents together
to paint garage sale sales. Advertising your community garage sale is very important. Get a good few pieces of cardboard, and paint your message in a bright color that stands out. Step 6: Speaking of advertising, it’s very important to get the word out, so advertise in your local newspaper. Did you know that if you send the information about your community garage sale to the Osprey Observer, a month ahead of the sale, we will post all of the information in our HOA section? Email nicoleh@ospreyobserver.com to get HOA news in the paper. Step 7: When advertising, make sure to include general street intersections, as well as the name of the community. Step 8: Make sure residents prepare and arrange everything in their garages the night before. If they need to set up on a driveway or yard, remind them to have everything near the door so they can run it all out and set it up quickly in the morning. Step 9: Remove your sign after the sale for several reasons. One: so people don't come back the next week looking for the yard sale. Two: most city ordinances require signs be removed.
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Page 8
Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 4
Daughters Of The American Revolution Projects Help Restore Community Cemetery
By Kim Ruiz
By Tamas Mondovics
Residential Fire Leads To Marijuana Grow House News of a house fire is never considered good, unless it leads local law enforcement officers to a the scene of a much bigger story. Such was the case during a recent call that led Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Patrol District 4 deputies to the scene of a residential fire at 906 Homewood Dr. in Brandon. Upon arrival, the home was partially engulfed in flames and Hillsborough County Fire were on scene working to extinguishing the fire. According to HCSO Public Information officer Larry McKinnon, while there was no one home when firefighter and law enforcement personnel arrived at the scene, the first responders found plenty of unexpected items inside, as they discovered a marijuana grow house. “While inside the home, firefighters discovered two rooms converted into growing marijuana and multiple marijuana plants in soil filled pots,” McKinnon said. When the smoke cleared, HCSO detectives executed a search warrant and recovered high sodium vapor lights, ballasts, fans and 31 mature marijuana plants inside the residence. Tampa Electric Company (TECO) responded to the scene as well and also discovered an illegal electrical connec-
tion providing un-metered electricity to the residence. The estimated theft of electricity was over $8,745, while the marijuana weighed approximately 270 pounds, which detectives said carries a street value of more than half a million dollars. According to Hillsborough County Fire Investigator Brett Vaughan, the illegal electrical tap was the cause of the fire in this residential neighborhood. While another residential fire is added to the County Fire Rescue’s call list, the bigger issue is the discovery of another grow house within the community that has already seen its fair share of illegal activity. It was only a month ago that Hillsborough County Sheriff David Gee announced the results of a lengthy statewide narcotics investigation coined by the department “Operation Hydro Hustlers,” which busted a major drug growing ring. Gee said that the investigation began in March of 2015, netting 22 arrests while it revealed 10 grow houses, eight of which were in Hillsborough County. Investigators said that the Homewood Drive grow house is the 16th marijuana grow operation that has been eradicated in 2016. No arrest has been made pending further investigation.
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gravestones. One of the Limona Cemetery trustees, Loretta Nowlen from the Limona Village Chapel, said they are attempting to reach out to the community for family members and friends who may have loved ones buried at the cemetery to come forward with deeds or other documentation to assist them with their mapping and updating of their current system. Individuals who can provide any information can contact the church (From left) Alafia River Chapter of the Daughters office at 689-8385. of the American Revolution members Donna Nowlen said, “The cemetery Dean, Heather Beckner, and Rebecca Jakobson at the Limona Cemetery in Brandon on one of has benefitted in years past from their many volunteer days. groups like the Boy and Girl Scouts In November 2014, the Alafia River and other youth groups that come out to Chapter of the Daughters of the American participate in their annual community Revolution (DAR) began a volunteer proj- work day to pick up pine cones and ect to clean all the headstones at Limona debris prior to Memorial Day. American Cemetery in Brandon, where approxiflags are placed by Boy Scouts on mately 10 percent of the graves belong to Memorial Day and by DAR members on veterans. They have devoted over 240 Veterans Day to honor our veterans at hours of work cleaning, mapping and Limona Cemetery.” extensive landscape clean up at the This year the Alafia River Chapter of cemetery since then. A spokeswoman for DAR has a goal to buy veteran flag holdthe Limona Cemetery Association said ers for all of the over 120 veteran graves they deeply appreciate the time and work at the cemetery and honor the founder's the DAR has put into this community area of the cemetery with a matching cemetery. grant program. The national DAR will Due to a loss of records and the match whatever the local chapter can transfer of tracking systems over time, raise. The DAR ladies are looking for an there are gravesites at Limona Cemetery individual or company to help with a taxthat are either unmarked or where plots deductible $2,000 donation in order to were sold to individuals or families that apply for the matching grant with the are still unclaimed. For example, one of National Society Daughters of the the DAR volunteers mentioned to a American Revolution. Anyone interested trustee that her grandparents were buried can contact 661-8397 or email at regisin Limona Cemetery, but they had no traralafiadar@gmail.com.
April 2016
Page 9
Brandon Edition
Bloomingdale Cheer Turns Trouble Into Triumph During State Final Appearance
By Tamas Mondovics
and unable to continue. That was trouble. The decision to stop the routine was made by Groat and assistant coaches Shelly Teal and Taylor Hill. Under the direction of the talented coaching team, the girls regained composure, regrouped, reworked the routine, and poured their hearts and souls into the performance, which led to the squad earning fourth place in Members of the Bloomingdale High School the 2A Medium Varsity competition team turned in a strong performance Division. during the 2016 Florida High School Competitive That was triumph. Cheerleading State Championships. “Knowing they had done “To be a Bloomingdale High School their best, the girls went to the awards Cheerleader is to be part of something ceremony with their heads held high,” special,” said first year program Head Groat said. “When they learned they had Coach Michelle Groat, whose words placed fourth in this division, the team proved true this season. went crazy.” A strong performance at the FSHAA The last time BSHS Cheer perCompetitive Cheer Regional Competition formed at the state finals was in 2011 earlier this year paved the way for the when the squad won Championship title. Bloomingdale squad to take its routine to the 2016 Florida High School Competitive The current season was to be a rebuildCheerleading State Championships finals ing year for the team lead by Team hosted by the Florida High School Athletic Captain Julianne Isabel, who has maintained a positive presence encouraging Association (FHSAA). her teammates to push through and fight According to Groat, the team’s goal for their stunts. going into the semi-finals was simple: “I really wanted to have a good senadvance to finals. As the last words to her ior year with cheer,” Isabel said. “I’m just team before they headed up the stairs to the platform, Groat said, “We are compet- so proud of everyone.” “It has been such a pleasure to ing against 11 teams and only three will watch the girls grow as individuals and as move on to finals…you have a job to do. a team,” Groat said. “I can’t wait to see Go out there and have fun.” what next year holds.” And, that is just what the girls did. For more information about local Unfortunately, during the finals performance, one team member was injured schools athletics, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.
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Page 10
Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
Healthy Hearing Expo To Prove Many Ways To Improve Hearing
Staff Report
there will also be wide array of support groups offering complimentary services and guidance for the hard-of-hearing and deaf communities. All attendees will have an opportunity to get a free hearing screening, as well as their choice of a free captioned or amplified phone. The event will also reach out to the commercial and nonprofit businesses that interact with the community to demonstrate some of the new “access technologies” like the loop and captioning systems that have helped organizations such as Over 30 exhibitors will provide a hands-on churches, retailers and meeting places experience to try and compare the most advanced hearing devices and accessories across the U.S. to significantly increase their customer and membership bases by at the upcoming Healthy Hearing Expo. it feasible for the 20 percent of making The Healthy Hearing Expo in the population with hearing loss to particiBrandon will be the first integrated conpate. sumer health fair of its kind in Ed Ogiba, the chair of Healthy Hillsborough County, offering people with Expo said, “Many people have Hearing hearing loss a unique opportunity to told us that events like an HLAA Expo explore a wide range of practitioners, new changed their lives. Many attendees with technologies and support groups to hearing aids learn how to access the full improve their hearing. The all day, open power of their devices or are introduced house health fair will feature a hall full of to the accessories and techniques that exhibitors plus educational seminars. In can empower them to improve their addition, the new Technology Solution understanding of the spoken word by as Center will offer attendees an unparalmuch as 40 percent.” leled environment to both try and comThe Healthy Hearing Expo will take pare cutting-edge technologies to on Saturday, May 7 from 9 a.m.-3 place enhance their understanding of speech in p.m. at Maudlin Hall in the First the toughest situations. Presbyterian Church of Brandon, located The exhibitors will represent a broad at 121 Carver Ave. in Brandon. It is an range of practitioners such as audioloopen house affair with free admission. gists, hearing instrument specialists and Interested organizations can apply to providers of hearing aid accessory exhibit. For more consumer or exhibitor devices, captioned phones, cochlear information, contact 941-706-4312 or implants, assistive listening devices, loop ed@groupefo.com. systems, CART (captions). Importantly,
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Page 11
Brandon Edition
The Outreach Clinic Presents 5th Annual Kentucky Derby Party, A Taste Of The Derby
By Kathy L. Collins
sold out last year. We are expecting an even earlier sell out this year, so get your tickets early.” The Kentucky Derby Party is The Outreach Clinic’s biggest fundraiser. The clinic exists thanks to the generosity of individuals, local organizations and churches. “With the help of our 250 The Outreach Clinic will host its 5th Annual Kentucky Derby Party on Saturday, May 7 at the Palmetto Club. plus volunteers and local community supporters, we The Outreach Clinic will host its 5th are able to return over 2 million dollars in Annual Kentucky Derby Party, A Taste of medical services every year to individuals The Derby, on Saturday, May 7 from 5-9 in need of healthcare each year,” p.m. at The Palmetto Club in FishHawk explained Meegan. Ranch located at 17004 Dorman Rd. in Despite advances with so many Lithia. Tickets are $75 per person. becoming insured through the Affordable Attendees can sip on Mint Juleps and Health Care Act, there are still thousands other refreshments, enjoy great food and in Hillsborough County who cannot afford have lots of fun. All proceeds will benefit health insurance. the Outreach Clinic, the area's only clinic “We get calls every day from patients providing free health care to the low who are discharged from the hospital with income uninsured. immediate medical needs such as follow The Outreach Clinic's 5th Annual up visits, lab work and prescriptions. Our Kentucky Derby Party is a fun and excitclinic is able to provide the immediate ing event. Attendees will view a live healthcare they need which helps prevent stream of the race on a 25 ft. screen. them from returning to the emergency Food and drink samplings will come from room,” said Meegan. “Saving lives everyover 15 of the area's most popular day- that is what we do, and we need the restaurants. community’s help. You do not have to be Executive Director of The Outreach a doctor to save a life. Anyone can be a Clinic Debbie Meegan said, “The Annual part of The Outreach Clinic by supporting Kentucky Derby Party is a lot of fun. We us.” live stream the Derby race, have food The Outreach Clinic is located at 517 and drink, a silent auction, photo booth, N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. For more race contests and lots of derby festivities. information and to get tickets, call 654The ladies wear gorgeous hats and the gentlemen are ever so dapper. The event 1388 or visit www.theoutreachclinic.com.
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Page 12
Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
Community In Favor Of Design Plans For Proposed Seffner-Mango Park
CAREGIVER TIP: “For someone with dementia wringing their hands is normal. Stimulate their minds and their hands by creating a !idget quilt.”
By Tamas Mondovics
permitting stages, the project will take place under the direction of project manager Chris Postiglione, with an estimated total cost of $400,000, which will be covered by Hillsborough County Parks Impact Fees. County officials have not yet decided on the construction company, but according Walker, residents will not be impacted by the project. The Seffner-Mango Park is by no means the only park project on the PRC’s current roster. Several acres of County-owned land, which Walker said one of the greater sits adjacent to the Seffner-Mango Library, will Brandon area community’s oldest and become a new landscaped park. most visited parks, Paul Sanders Park located at 3319 S. Kings Ave. in Hillsborough County residents had a chance to learn last month during a public Brandon, is now also on the list for a much-needed upgrade. information meeting about proposed “The Paul Sanders Park will receive plans to develop vacant County-owned a complete overhaul, which will include a land designated for a Seffner-Mango more modern playground, bathroom faciliPark. Armed with site maps for viewing, ties, pavilion shelters as well as improved County Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) staff presented infor- parking,” Walker said. The time frame for the $315,000 projmation, answered residents’ questions ect will be announced later, but Walker during the open-house format meeting said that the park will be shut down and, according to Kara Walker with the throughout the duration of its remodeling County information office, received a phase. favorable response to the plans to develHillsborough County Parks, op the parcel, which sits adjacent to the Recreation and Conservation Department Seffner-Mango Library located at 1104 N. operates more than 176 neighborhood Kingsway Rd. in Seffner. parks and playgrounds countywide, 265 “Residents are in support of the new park design and proposed components to athletic fields, 13 recreation centers, 10 regional parks, more than 727 miles of develop the land into a passive park to trail, as well as 61,000 acres of preserved include community gardens, shade shellands acquired through the Jan K. Platt ters, walking and jogging trails, landscaping, fencing, and other amenities,” Walker Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program. For more, visit the said. The Park is designed by Engineering Project page at www.HillsboroughCounty. org/CountyProjects and click on the Design Firm, Lauren D. Campo, P.E. Community Projects link. Campo Engineering, Inc. Currently in its
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Page 13
Brandon Edition
The Trey Curry Foundation Presents Masquerade Themed Vine To Wine Fundraiser
By Kathy L. Collins
The Trey Curry Foundation was founded in 2008 in honor and memory of Terry and Clif Curry's son, Trey. Mary Beth Curry, executive director of the Trey Curry Foundation, said, "This event is held every year to raise money for A Kid’s Place and the Trey Curry House at A Kid’s Place. Our family made a pledge to fund the house. However, even after The 9th Annual Vine to Wine will take place Friday, May 13 the pledge commitment is at The Regent in Riverview. fulfilled, we will continue to be involved because the The Trey Curry Foundation is proud facility will continue to need funds to conto present the 9th Annual Vine to Wine on tinue its mission to provide a safe place Friday, May 13 at The Regent located at abused, neglected and abandoned for 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview beginning at 7 p.m. Funds raised at the event bene- children.” Curry added, "Our relationship with A fit A Kid's Place in Brandon. Advance tickKid’s Place started five years ago when ets are $100 and must be purchased by Witzak, the former executive Wayne Saturday, April 30. After this date, tickets director of Kid’s Charity Tampa Bay (a are $135. Tickets can be purchased fundraising arm of A Kid’s Place), reached online at www.treycurryfoundation.org. out to our family regarding funding the This year, the theme for Vine to Wine last house at A Kid’s Place. We immediis Mystique Fantastique…A Masquerade ately decided that it would be a phenomeAffair. Wines provided by Premier way to always remember Trey and nal Beverage will be offered throughout the bring publicity to both our foundation and evening. Chef Dave West of the Rolling to A Kid’s Place.” Pin Kitchen Emporium in Brandon will A Kid's Place is located at 1715 Lithia once again be preparing a delectable Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon. It is a state of array of savory treats. the art residential care facility that proIn addition to the great food, fine vides a safe and loving environment for wines and scrumptious desserts, guests children from birth to 17 years of age who will have a chance to bid on a wide array have been removed from their home due of items in both a live and silent auction. to abuse, abandonment or neglect. This year, guests are in for a surprise as For more information, visit www.treyan aspect of entertainment and food will curryfoundation.com or call 655-0269. coincide with the theme.
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Page 14
Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
If you have a question for the Bird Guy, his email is: Rich@RichsBackyardBirds.com Or stop by the store in the Erindale Plaza, 3642 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. . Or call 813-657-BIRD(2473) ...Or try telepathy (results vary)
Rich Crete is the owner of Rich’s Backyard Birds and has been a birder for over 30 years.
Hey Bird Guy! What is the proper col- of ravens, but no. They assigned charm to finches. I think the crows and ravens lective noun for eagles? -M.M. of FishHawk should consider a class action lawsuit for Super fun question, M. Collective nouns are curious. Some seem to make sense, some seem forced, and some really make you scratch your head in wonderment. As far as eagles go, I’ve seen and heard several: gathering, convocation, congress and aerie. Which is correct, or can you just use the catch all collective noun, boatload? As best as I can tell, all are acceptable. Way back in the olden days (yes, even before I was around) writers utilized a technique called poetic license. With this technique they could often use words in ways they hadn’t been used before, or even make up words to help enhance their writing. Who was going to argue with them? They were the writers after all. If anyone would know, it would be them. Some of these creative words and descriptions stuck, many of them collective nouns. Some were humorous. Some were based on perceived or imagined characteristics. Some were simply used to add to the mood the writer was trying to create. A murder of crows, comes to mind, as does a conspiracy of ravens. What did these birds ever do to deserve such macabre descriptors? They could have just as easily called them a charm
slander. I wonder who came up with a piteousness of doves. Piteousness? Seriously? Heck, I didn’t know piteousness was a word. Maybe it isn’t. Generic collectives for birds are often used, like flock, flight, congregation, group or even covey. I think they are pushing it with volery or dissimulation. Sounds like someone was just trying to sound smart. Owls were always thought to be wise so they called a group a parliament. I bet they’d rethink that one these days. Your question has given me a fun idea. Let’s have a “Create Your Own Collective Noun” contest. Here are the rules: Let’s keep it to birds so I’m not getting ideas like “an idiocy of columnists” or “a poverty of bird seed sellers.” Email your collective bird nouns to Rich@RichsBackyardBirds.com and I’ll select my favorite based on creativity and cleverness (as opposed to piteousness). The winner will receive a $25 gift certificate to, you guessed it, Rich’s Backyard Birds. It’s fun and easy once you get started: a clergy of cardinals, a formality of penguins, a funeral of vultures, a litter of catbirds, a pontification of godwits. What? Tough crowd. No, a bucket of chicken will not be the winner. Have fun!
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April 2016
Brandon Edition
Page 15
Page 16
Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 4
April 2016
Local Barbers Continue Growing Family-Friendly Barbershop During the summer of 2015, two locals were inspired to open a true barbershop in the Valrico area. Their shop has been slowly growing since, and actively seeks to deliver quality service while staying involved with the community. “We both lived in the area and we knew it needed a good barbershop,” explained co-owner Cris Aviso. He partnered with another experienced barber, William Senquiz, and together they created something great under the name of C & W Barbershop. With its four barbers and family-friendly atmosphere, the shop specializes in cuts for both men and boys, including fades, military, business, classic, pompadour, undercuts and head shaves. They even offer hot towel shaves. “This is our favorite, like in the good old days,” Aviso said. Beard trims, shampoos and gels are also available, along with trims or bang cuts for women and basic facials and eyebrow waxes for men and women. They also offer $2 off as a military discount. The shop is open Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Though it is typically closed on Sundays, the shop will be open from 12 p.m.-4 p.m. every Sunday in April. Aviso first began his career and gained barbershop experience from work-
Page 17
Brandon Edition
By Andria Barrios
Cris Aviso partnered with another experienced barber, William Senquiz, and created C & W Barbershop.
ing at his mother’s shop. His partner, Senquiz, has been cutting hair for more than eight years and began in Kissimmee where he owned and operated three barbershops. “Our shop is clean, and we give quality haircuts for a great price,” Aviso said. “People choose us because we are consistent and we make people feel great after leaving the barbershop. If you look good, you feel good.” Look your best by getting a fresh haircut at C & W Barbershop, whose professional and experienced barbers service customers all over Valrico, Brandon, FishHawk and Bloomingdale. C & W Barbershop is located at 3515 Bell Shoals Rd. For more information, call 655-2887 or visit www.cwbarbershop.com or www.facebook.com/655CUTS/.
Independent Feature Film Proof To Begin Production Locally, Seeks Shooting Locations
By Carl Walins
Independent feature pants are traveling from film Proof is set to begin other parts of the state production in Riverview and at their own expense to surrounding areas. IMRSIV be part of this project. Media, in association with The film's director, Carl The Independent Walins, is gratified by Filmmakers of Gulf Coast the outpouring of supand Central Florida, is curport. rently in pre-production. “It is simply amazRiverview was selected ing how many people as the site for the movie's want to be a part of this base of operations as movie,” Walins said. Actor Michael C. “We've literally had to it is the home of the McGreevy of film's writer, Steven turn people away Tampa's Jobsite Slawin. The project's because we don't have Theater portrays the mayor of the enough roles or enough final pre-production fictional town of jobs to go around.” meeting will be held for Palm Breeze, the full cast and crew The movie's proFlorida in the locally-produced ducers are hoping for on Sunday, April 24 feature film and principle photogracommunity support for Proof. phy begins in May. the project in the form of The film stars shooting locations and extras. Patrick Weston and Monika Eldred as “We're still looking for a few places to Tim and Janey-Anne Butler, a couple shoot: a rural church for a town hall meetwhose relationship is affected dramaticaling scene, a wooded area for the UFO ly when Tim and his best friend, Eugene landing site, and other locations, like a Berry (Tujuane Doughty in his first signifilocal diner, motel, and some office and/or cant role) witness a UFO event. Things warehouse space,” Walins said. take an unexpected turn when author and “Eventually we're going to need extras for self-proclaimed paranormal expert several scenes. We're hoping that owners Stanton Kole III (veteran actor Peter J. of suitable locations in the area will conKonowicz) arrives to assist in validating tact us and offer their sites for use in our the encounter. Attempting to keep order little film.” throughout is Sheriff John Paine, played Property owners, residents of the by Richard A. Ramsey. Nearby locations area and others who provide locations, will stand-in for the fictional town of Palm people or services to the production will Breeze, Florida. receive an official thank you in the film's The film has a primary cast and crew credits. Details can be found at of roughly 30 who are donating their time, www.imdb.com/title/tt5531336/ or faceexpertise, and experience. Some particibook.com/imrsiv.
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Page 18
Brandon Edition
By Tamas Mondovics
Sheriff Reports Crime Rate Drop In Hillsborough Hillsborough County County, reaching the genSheriff David Gee is eral public could cause known for his love of concern. For Gee and his crunching numbers, espemore than 4,000 employcially when the end result ees however, it is not a puts his agency on the sign of an increase of right side of the equation, crime, but instead the fruit as it serves and protects of the great partnership those under his care. Gee between the public and was proud to announce law enforcement as well that once again the overas the support of the all crime rate for unincorlocal agencies as they porated Hillsborough work together for the County has been benefit of all. Hillsborough County Sheriff reduced, which would Gee made sure David Gee recently reported another drop in crime rate make the rate drop for the credit is given where throughout Hillsborough County. ninth straight year. credit is due, emphasiz"Together, we continue to make ing what has been accomplished through Hillsborough County a safer place,” Gee community partners, such as said. Putting the numbers in perspective, Neighborhood Watch, Business Watch, compared to 2014, the overall crime rate Crime Stoppers and Citizen Patrol workin 2015 was reduced by three percent. ing together. The violent crime rate is also the lowest in “We can all be proud of what we Hillsborough County since 1985. More have accomplished in the past nine specifically, with last year’s 905,007 resiyears,” he said. dents (an increase of 17,125 from 2014) Adding to the positive report is the in the unincorporated area of fact that while Hillsborough County's popHillsborough County, the number of viculation continues to grow, the number of tims of crimes was also reduced from deputies on the street has not. HCSO’s 18,086 in 2014 to 17,552 in 2015, which Public information Office said that there equates to a total of 19.4 victims of crime are 1.4 deputies per 1,000 residents in per 1,000 residents versus 20.4 victims in Hillsborough County, which is lower than 2014. the national average for law enforcement The news or the results of major agencies of 2.3 officers per capita. investigations such as the arrest of Gee confidently addressed the future dozens of violent gun wielding criminals, of his community he serves when he or the shutting down huge illegal drug said, “I look forward to even more reducgrow house operations in Hillsborough tions in crime in the years to come.”
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Volume 11, Issue 4
Florida Leads Nation With Over 10,000 Guardian Ad Litem Volunteers
Staff Report
2016 revealed that 10,056 Florida GAL citizen volunteers are trained and certified to work with children who are removed from their parents due to safety concerns. Most volunteers represent two or more abused children, visiting them at least once a month, and advising child welfare judges on options for assuring the child’s best interests. “Our dedicated volunteers A group of people were recently sworn in as Guardian are the heart and soul of the Ad Litem citizen volunteers. Thousands of children still GAL Program,” Abramowitz need a voice and more volunteers are needed. explained. “They speak for vulnerable, innocent children Florida Guardian ad Litem (GAL) and hold government and private sector Executive Director, Alan Abramowitz, agencies accountable for their safety, revealed that Florida’s GAL Program has security and best interests. Our volunexceeded its goal of 10,000 volunteers teers receive nothing in return but the who advocate for abused, neglected and knowledge that they are making a differabandoned children in courts throughout ence in the lives of children.” the state. Abramowitz made the Abramowitz explained that anyone announcement in recapping the agency’s age 18 or older can become a volunteer, success during the recently adjourned simply by participating in a local training Florida Legislative Session. Although course and meeting other qualifications. most states have a GAL Program of “A typical volunteer is as unique and some kind, Florida’s success in recruiting diverse as our state’s population. We volunteers sets the record for the nation. have doctors, students, special education Chester W. Spellman, Volunteer teachers, Home Depot supervisors, stayFlorida CEO stated that, “Volunteer at-home moms, restaurant cooks, FBI Florida applauds Guardian ad Litem’s agents, UPS delivery drivers, ages 21, achievement of engaging 10,000 volun68, 32, 76, 44, 28, 57, 24, male, female, teers. Guardian ad Litem continues to anyone.” successfully leverage the human capital There are thousands of children who of volunteers to serve Florida’s most vulnerable children. We are proud to support still need a voice. To learn more about the Guardian ad Litem Program, or to their efforts.” become a volunteer, visit www.Guardian Abramowitz reported that a count of adLitem.org or call 1-866-341-1GAL. total volunteers at the end of February
April 2016
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Brandon Edition
Community Bands Together To Help Homeless Couple Fulfill Dream Wedding Owners Sean and Bonnie McSharry from Cross Creek Ranch in Dover held a special wedding event on Friday, April 1. Evelyn Adams Barlett and David “Rocky” Barlett exchanged their wedding vows in a romantic atmosphere, which set the tone for the ceremony. They have been together for 22 years, but did not have the finances to purchase a marriage license. The couple, who was once homeless for three years, has reached a new beginning in their lives with the help of the community. Officer Daniel McDonald from the Tampa Police Department Homeless Initiatives specializes in homeless outreach. He has worked with Evelyn and Rocky for some time now, trying to get them permanent housing. McDonald was aware that Evelyn and Rocky were not married. He looked up the cost of a marriage license, which cost $93.50 and proposed an idea to them. “They were really interested in getting
By Tatiana Ortiz
Photos Courtesy Carrie Wildes Photography
(Left) David “Rocky” Barlett, Evelyn Adams Barlett, Officer Daniel McDonald and Princess on the Barlett’s wedding day. (Above) The community banded together to provide the couple’s dream wedding. (Right) Best man Richard Walsh (left) and groom David “Rocky” Barlett.
married and funds were donated to get them their marriage license,” said McDonald. McSharry also stepped in after hearing the story from other media outlets and it was something she could relate to and she gave a call to McDonald. The $20,000 wedding came together through the support of the community, donations from vendors such as
Alessi Bakery, HH Catering, photographers, florists and much more. All the guests at the wedding were volunteers who donated their services. “Evelyn and Rocky designed their wedding and chose the menu for the food,” said Director Nancy Spooner from Cross Creek Ranch. During the ceremony, the Barlett’s were joined by their friends and guests.
Major James Hall, area commander at The Salvation Army of Tampa/Hillsborough County, officiated the wedding. Along with that, their dog, Princess, attended and acted as flower girl. She wore her collar covered with flowers for this special occasion. Richard Walsh, who is a friend of Evelyn and Rocky, walked Rocky down the aisle. Walsh has lived in Tampa with the couple at the same homeless camp for almost three years. “I met Evelyn and Rocky in 2013. They are the two most caring people I have ever met,” said Walsh. Lastly, the couple received a key to their new place and are moved in. Homemakers of Hope donated all of the furniture and furnishings. The couple truly got their fairytale ending. “Words cannot describe how grateful were are for Officer McDonald and the people who did this for us,” said Evelyn. For more information on Cross Creek Ranch, visit www.crosscreekranchfl.com. It is located at 12950 E. Wheeler Rd. in Dover. Hours of Operation Monday through Saturday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Call 6510934.
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Page 20
Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 4
New Water Taxi Service, High Speed Ferry Pilot Program Come To Tampa
New Products, Great Sales Usher In Dog Gone Holistic 8th Anniversary Celebration
Tourists want to At a meeting of control their experithe Tampa Downtown ence with hop-on Partnership hop-off options.” Downtown Pirate Water Debriefing Series Taxis will be used on Tuesday, March for lighted excursions during the 1, waterborne holidays so resitransportation in the dents and visitors Tampa Bay area can enjoy Tampa’s was discussed. beautiful waterfront Specifically, the and the lighted new Pirate Water (From left) Ed Turanchik and Troy Manthey bridges. In addiTaxi was introdiscussed waterborne transportation for the duced. Tampa Bay area at a recent meeting of the tion, Pirate Taxi is Tampa Downtown Partnership Downtown looking into develPirate Water Debriefing Series. oping an app simiTaxi officially began lar to Uber and is also looking into operating over the weekend of February reduced pricing for rides after 6 p.m. 27 and 28 this year. While there have The price for an adult ticket is $15, been water taxi services operating in and for children ages 4-12 the price is $8. Tampa for some time (tours and excurIn addition to the announcement of sions), this one is different. It is modeled Pirate Water Taxi, a pilot program involvafter a successful service running in Ft. ing a high speed ferry between St. Lauderdale which transports approxiPetersburg and Tampa was also mately 370,000 riders per year. Pirate Water Taxi operates on a schedule and is announced. The pilot program will begin in November and will run for six months. a hop-on hop-off service. The ferries will run on Friday, Saturday Pirate Water Taxi will make 14 stops and Sunday. Each trip will take approxialong Tampa’s waterfront from the mately 40 minutes. Riverwalk, the Channel District, Davis Attorney with Akerman LLP, Ed Islands, Ulele and Rick’s On The Water, Turanchik said, “Many things about to name a few. Pirate Water Taxi will operate seven days a week from 10 a.m.- Tampa make it a great city and water transportation is one of them.” According 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and to Turanchik, pricing for the ferry service 10 a.m.-12 Midnight on Friday and has not yet been determined. St. Saturday. With the growth of downtown, Petersburg is building infrastructure to waterborne transportation offers a way to accept the high speed ferries which will alleviate traffic congestion. According to be operated by HMS Ferries. Visit pirateTroy Manthey, operator of Pirate Water watertaxi.com or call 223-7999. Taxi, “This is the way tourism is going.
The event also provides the opportunity for customers to meet some of the faces behind the products and allows the owners to showcase the exciting new products that Dog Gone Holistic now carries. Some of the participating vendors include Weruva (cat and dog foods), Red Barn (dog chews and treats), Nature’s Logic (dog food) and Nulo (cat and dog foods). There are several new products being introduced like Cat’s Incredible cat litter from Lucy Pet Products. All Darrel Day (left) with his dog Basil and Robert of the Lucy profits go to the Lucy Pet Benscoter (right) with his dog Chaz purchased Foundation for the adoption and care Dog Gone Holistic in February 2015. of pets that would have otherwise Darrel Day and Robert Benscoter been euthanized. Also Fussie Cat dry cat have owned Dog Gone Holistic since foods to complement its line of canned February of 2015. In keeping with its cat foods that are already extremely popannual tradition, this year they will host ular at Dog Gone Holistic, and Benebone the 8th Anniversary Sale, which will take dog chews – long lasting dog chews with place on Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m.-6 natural flavorings, which have been really p.m. popular with the dogs. Everything in the store will be on sale Day and Benscoter hope the entire all day long. Customers will be able to community will come out and celebrate save 10 percent on all cat and dog foods the store’s anniversary with them. and 15 percent on everything else. While “We’re so happy to be able hold this supplies last, free goodie bags will be event for the eighth time. We think of this given out with a $35 or more purchase. as a customer appreciation day for all of Day said, “It’s hard to believe, but it’s our loyal customers. Thank you for trustbeen over a year since we became ing us as your partner in caring for your involved with Dog Gone Holistic. It’s been pets,” said Day. a dream-come-true for both of us. And, For more information on Dog Gone word of mouth recommendations are Holistic and its Anniversary event, visit bringing in new customers daily. It is so www.doggoneholistic.biz or call 651rewarding to us and our staff when a cus- 0842. tomer comes in and says that we’re makThe anniversary sale will take place ing a difference in their pet’s life and in inside the store, located at 5620 theirs too.” FishHawk Crossing Blvd. in Lithia.
By Kathy L. Collins
By Michelle Colesanti
Lose Weight • Build Strength Body Tone • Endurance • Flexibility “Lost 7.5% Body Fat, 10 lbs, Pant Size from 6 to 2” I am a teacher with 2 children and had been feeling pretty good about myself, spending the summer at the beach, being in a bathing suit, having fun with the family……. until it was time to go back to work and I couldn’t button some of my pants! And the ones that did fit were uncomfortably tight. No problem, I thought, I know how to work out and eat healthy. So, I hit the gym a little harder, and watched what I ate a little better. All to no avail. Not one pound budged (the scale actually went up!) I decided enough was enough. Ten pounds may not seem like much, but it was making me miserable, not to mention uncomfortable, all day at work. My daughter even asked if I had a baby in my belly. Gotta love kids! BEFORE I decided to check out RobZFitness. I had heard good things about him. I made an appointment with Rob and told him my goals were to lose 10 pounds and fit in my pants which were size 4-6. I said I had never been smaller than that and he said AFTER “we’ll see”. I ended up signing right then and there. I was paired with Samantha (Sam) and she was great! She encouraged me through the nutrition transformation – this was hard! I was totally changing my eating habits – but that was what I wanted, right? Long term fitness and lifestyle change? Right, I could do it. I have a hard time sticking to what I start when it comes to personal goals, but I was determined to do this right. Everyone at RobZFitness was so nice and easy to get along with. We would chat throughout the workouts making them fly by. They were very knowledgeable and could answer any question I threw at them whether it be fitness or nutrition related. Though it took awhile to get used to the lifestyle change, it has been totally worth it. I could never have dreamed I could feel so good about myself! Not only did I lose that 10 pounds, but I lost inches everywhere. I am not just skinny, but toned and look great. I went from needing to buy a new wardrobe in a bigger size, to needing one in a smaller size. I just bought my first pair of size 2 jeans!! I now have the tools and knowledge I need to stay looking good and I know I can call on Samantha or Taylor or anyone else at RobZFitness if I need a little advice or input. Thank you for helping me get back into the best shape of my life! Michelle Toale
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April 2016
Brandon Edition
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Brandon Edition
Upcoming Taste Of Brandon Changes Locations, Seeking Vendors
By Renee Hobbs
This year’s Taste of Brandon is a day filled with food, fun and festivities on Saturday, April 30.
Restaurants, caterers and bakeries, oh my. It’s all at this year’s Taste of Brandon on Saturday, April 30. “We are very excited about this year’s event,” said Denise Pare, director of events for the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce (GBCC). The event is in a new location this year, making its home at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover. Pare said the spot was changed from last year’s venue to this one because, “We needed more room to expand.” Guests will be able to taste menu samples from 12 Noon-5 p.m. from Brandon area restaurants, and there will be a “Best of” competition where attendees can vote for their favorite tasting. There will also be arts, live music, crafts, retail vendors and “a large children’s play
area with free activities,” said Pare. GBCC puts on this annual event and Pare said, “We are trying to create a family friendly event with things to do for all ages. We want everyone to attend so we try to keep the costs low for those coming to the event.” General admission tickets are $15 and include food. Back by popular demand, VIP tickets are on sale for $25, which includes food and a beer and wine tasting from local wine distributors and breweries. Children ages 3-11 are $5 and if they are under the age of 3, they get in free. Pare said GBCC is targeting all different kinds of food vendors, including BarB-Q, Latin cuisine and more. “You name it, we’re interested,” laughed Pare. Local restaurateurs who want to participate still have time to register. The deadline is Friday, April 22. To participate in all the festivities at this year’s Taste of Brandon, visit the event at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. Contact Pare at dpare@brandonchambor.com if you are have a restaurant and are interested in participating. For more information about The Taste of Brandon, call the Chamber at 689-1221 or visit brandonchamber.com.
License CGC#1513613
Volume 11, Issue 4
April 2016
Brandon Edition
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Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
Hours: Mon - Sat 7am - 10pm Sun 7am-9pm
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Stop n’ Shop Today Latino’s Supermarket 131 N Mt Carmel Rd, Valrico, FL 33594
April 2016
Brandon
Volume 11, Issue 4
Ph: 657-2418
InThis Section
HOME PAINT JOB GIVEAWAY..............PG 31 CHALKLINES.........................................PG 32 SUMMER CAMP SECTION.............PGS 34‐39 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT....................PG 43 SPORTS CONNECTION.........................PG 46
Professional Development Events Hosted By IGS
Intentional Growth Strategies (IGS) is in the business of transforming the way professionals work by creating a community that hosts professional development events throughout each month locally. These events are designed to help professionals develop their skill set and become more involved with other likeminded entrepreneurs in the area. As the IGS community continues to grow, it will evolve into a shared co-working space that will serve as a trendy, comfortable and inspiring workspace and meeting area. Upcoming events include Personal Branding, April 21– May 24, 11:30 am1:30 pm. Visit www.igs community.com for more information on these and other events.
families. Dr. Scolaro provides compassionate care and is now accepting new patients. Call 677-8418 or visit www.Florida MedicalClinic.com.
Fifth Third Bank Partners with Metropolitan Ministries
Salon Essence, located in Plaza Bella on Bloomingdale, recently hosted its ribbon cutting with the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. The full service salon offers hair styling, cuts, color, manicures, pedicures, waxing and more. Visit salonessencespa.com or call 681-2060.
New Neighborhood Pet Store Marks Territory In Valrico
Valrico pet parents recently lined up to celebrate the grand opening of Pet Supplies Plus, located at 1937 E. SR 60 in Valrico Commons. It will offer area residents an easy to shop
Dick Portillo visited Brandon recently to help launch the new Portillo’s Hot Dogs, which is now open at 1748 W Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. A midwest favorite, this is the first Portillos to open in Florida and on the East Coast of the U.S. Visit www.portillos.com or call 210-8190.
environment offering a broad range of food from premium to basic grocery products and a wide variety of pet toys, equipment, fish and critters. Additionally, the new pet store will carry an extensive variety of Made in the USA pet consumables such as wet and dry food, treats, rawhide, chews and more, all at great prices and with a price-match guarantee. The 6,547-sq. ft. store will also feature a self-service dog wash and a carry-out service to help neighbors carry heavy purchases. Pet Supplies Plus maintains a professional,
experienced and knowledgeable local team. Call 540-0645 or visit www.petsuppliesplus.com.
Dr. Scolaro Joins New Family Practice
Fifth Third Bank’s annual Feeding Our Communities food will run through Friday, April 29, just in time to turn the food over to local food banks on May 3 (“Fifth Third Day”). In Tampa Bay, for the seventh year, Fifth Third Bank is partnering with Metropolitan Ministries in its efforts to fight hunger in the Bay area. Food collection bins are set up at all 159 Fifth Third banking centers throughout Florida. Everyone is encouraged to donate non-perishable food items, such as canned fruits and meats, rice, boxed cereal and beans. To donate, stop by a local Fifth Third banking center or visit 53.com to find a location near you.
Dr. Sam E. Scolaro, DO, a member of the American Osteopathic Board of Family Practice, has joined the Family Practice at Florida Publix Super Markets Medical Clinic, formerly March of Dimes known as Family Medical Register Donation Care of Riverview, located Drive at 7229 Hwy. 301 S. in Publix Super Riverview. Dr. Scolaro is a Markets is asking cusprimary care physician pro- Dr. Sam E. Scolaro, DO recently tomers to join them in joined the Family Practice at viding high level care for Florida Medical Clinic. their annual fundraising over 40 years. He is trained drive running through Saturday, April 30. in all areas of care for common medical At checkout, associates will sell cutouts needs and focuses on comprehensive, continuing care for individual patients and Continued on Next Page
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Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
Business Column Continued.............
By Michelle Colesanti Private Salon Studio Concept Benefits Stylists, Customers
objectives. USF Federal Credit Union offers a full range of financial services to the faculty, staff, students, alumni association members, and their families worldwide in addition to the organizations with employees on the campuses of the University of South Florida. Call 569-2000 or visit www.usffcu.org.
single agent out of 900 in the Keller Williams Chadwick Group, which includes Hillsborough and Pinellas County. Moran can be reached at 6612476.
on which customers can write their name or the name of a baby they love. The register campaign coincides with March for Green Door Salon Studios provides Babies, the stylists with March of fully equipped Dimes signaand furnished ture event, private salon which occurs Mathnasium studios. This on April 30 in Welcomes New concept is revmost areas. Assistant Center olutionizing the To find a Directors industry by March for Steve Moran is Keller offering stylists Mathnasium Babies event Williams Top Agent the professionhas promoted Green Door Salon Studios provides stylists with fully al freedom of near you, 12 Years in a Row Lead Instructor equipped and furnished private salon studios. visit marchoperating their Julie Swain, Team Baylor Kull to forbabies.org, where you can sign up and own business. Leader for Keller Assistant Center raise additional funds to support the Each guest will have the Williams, Director and hired March of Dimes. Latino’s Fresh Market recently celebrated KaLynn Singleton opportunity to have a one on has its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. to take the place one experience with their stylist announced The market is now open at 1608 S.R. 60 Brandon Honda Recognized as in a high end vintage inspired that Steve of Michelle Holton E. in Valrico. Hours of operation are 7 “Dealer of the Year” a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Saturday who has been salon and space. Moran with and 7 a.m.-9 p.m. on Sunday. Brandon Honda has been named Green Door Salon is locatKeller graciously serving Call 685-9110. Morgan Auto Group’s “Dealer of the Year” ed at 1147 Professional Park Williams as assistant cenfor 2015. Managing partner John Marazzi Dr. in Brandon. Visit greendoorSuburban Tampa has finter director since October of 2014. Holton has been leading Brandon Honda for four salons.com or call 941-518ished as the Top Individual was presented with an opportunity to years since Morgan Auto Group’s acquisi- 5951. return full time Agent. Moran tion in August 2011. to the career had over $18 The annual award honors the New Branch Manager of that she left Michael Cummings was million in writMorgan Auto Group dealership that has USF Federal Credit years ago to recently named the new ten volume manager of the Brandon for 2015. the highest customer Union Brandon home educate and St. Petersburg service ratings, best He finher children. USF Federal Credit branches of the USF business performance Visit www.mathnasium.com/brandon. Union (USF FCU) recent- Federal Credit Union. ished as the number one and proactively manly welcomed Michael Cummings as ages its reputation the new manager of the Brandon most effectively as and St. Petersburg branches. measured by online Cummings, with over 11 years reviews. Brandon of experience, will be accountable Our Personal Service & Attention to All Our Customers for 61 years Honda is a division of for branch operations, business Morgan Auto Group. It development, in-branch training, is located at 9209 E. evaluating policies and proceJohn Marazzi of Brandon dures, and leading a highly proAdamo Dr. Call 664Honda, which was recently Open 6 Days 1234 or visit www. Master Florist named “Dealer of the Year” ductive team that is committed to Mon.-Fri. 8am-5:30pm Fax 685-9875 Brandon Honda.com. from Morgan Auto Group. meeting the credit union’s financial Sat. 8am-2pm www.whiddenflorist.com Order Online 24hrs a day. 425 West Robertson Street
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April 2016
Budget Blinds Opens Location In Riverview By Libby Hopkins
Jim and Elaine Trotter are the owners of Budget Blinds of Brandon, and recently opened a new location in Riverview.
Owning their own business has been always been a dream for Jim and Elaine Trotter of Tampa. The couple met while attending the University of North Carolina and has been married for 31 years. They have called Florida home for more than 14 years. “Jim worked in the corporate world for 20 years and we have lived in many cities, so when another transition was looming, we realized we did not want to leave the Tampa area,” Elaine said. “Owning a small business was always a dream of ours, so we took about a year of due diligence and found Budget Blinds to be a great fit for our goals and lifestyle.” They purchased Budget Blinds of Greater Tampa in October 2008. Locally, Budget Blinds has served over 12,000 customers in the greater Tampa area for over 20 years. “We wanted to invest in the local community by growing a team of dedicated employees who feel the way we do, which is to give great service at a great value, offer continued support and give
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Brandon Edition
back to the community who supports us,” Elaine said. The couple donates locally to Habitat for Humanity, Metropolitan Ministries, the Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Prelude to a Cure for lung cancer research and in 2015 they partnered with Homes For Our Troops. “Budget Blinds Corporate and partners have pledged to give $1 million over three years in products and services to Homes For Our Troops,” Elaine said. “Jim and I also wanted to contribute since several of the Homes For Our Troops have been awarded in our area and a new home has been awarded and will be built in the coming year in Valrico. We started a campaign last year to contribute to Homes For Our Troops $1 for every window covered and we are so pleased to announce our team contributed $13,000 in 2015.” They are continuing the campaign in 2016 and cannot wait to see what they will be donating to the local area. The Trotter’s latest business venture is opening a new Budget Blinds location in Riverview. “We are excited for the new opportunity to service our East Hillsborough customers with a more convenient location to see our shutters, blinds and fabrics,” Elaine said. To learn more, visit www.budgetblinds.com/Brandon or call 445-7121. Budget Blinds is located at 10437 Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview. Showroom hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
LOSS OF MARKET VALUE By: George R. Brezina, Jr., ESQ. ADVERTISEMENT
LET'S SAY you just bought your dream car for $50,000.00 and you named it "Brad". You love "Brad". "Brad" is brand spanking new and in showroom condi!on, and, above all, lT'S YOURS! As you drive "Brad" off the dealer's parking lot you're suddenly "T Boned". As "Brad" is towed away from the crash site you sit on the curb in a state of depression. You soon learn that "Brad's" repair bill is $8,000.00. You go into even a deeper depression when your car dealer in forms you that "Brad" has lost $6,000.00 in market value. As stated by the Na!onal Associa!on of A$orneys' General; Regarding Used Car Rule Regulatory Review Ma$er No.: P087604, “. . . Nothing can diminish a vehicle's value more than prior damage. A vehicle which has incurred past substan!al collision damage, no ma$er how well re paired, is worth substan!ally less that an iden!cal vehicle without prior collision damage.
George R. Brezina, Jr., ESQ Consumers have made it clear they either do not wish to purchase vehi cles they know incurred prior sub stan!al collision damage, or, if they are willing to buy, will not pay close to predamage value...". Under Florida Law "Can you recover LOSS OF MARKET VALUE?" The an swer is "maybe". Your claim is de pendent on issues of liability; insurance coverages; and, appraisal value.
Don’t settle your car’s property damage claim for less than you deserve.
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CALL FOR A FREE CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION. Law Of!ices of George R. Brezina, Jr. P.A. 25 Years Serving Florida 1991-2016
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Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 4
Medi Weightloss Celebrates 10 Years In Brandon
By Amy Schechter
system and a personalized plan to make a real lifestyle change, not just go on another diet. The trained staff of physicians, dieticians, nurses, and medical assistants completes a full physical, bloodwork, and EKG to determine a goal weight. They then work together to develop a personalized program, even communicating with the patients primary care physician if needed to take into account any pre-existing health (From left) Brandon Medi-Weightloss team Alexis issues. The program normally Martinez, Office Manager L'Orean Parr, Katherin lasts anywhere from eight to 14 Parks, Ariel Parr and Ashley Gent. weeks, but can be longer dependAccording to the Center for Disease ing on how much weight a patient needs Control, more than one third of U.S. to lose. adults are obese and incur significantly “Then we put you on a fairly strict diet higher risk factors for heart disease, of all protein. We want to get you into stroke, diabetes, and certain types of canketosis so that your body is burning fat. cer than healthy adults. Obesity can also That’s our goal to get rid of the fat,” said impact one’s quality of life raising the Willet. Medi Weightloss provides a full issue of lowered mobility and negative start-up kit for patients to take home self-perception. Many do not know where which includes a scale to weigh your food to turn for help because they’ve tried dietalong with specially formatted suppleing and exercise before. ments, vitamins, and appetite suppresMedi Weightloss is the answer. About sants to support the strict diet and make to celebrate 10 years in the Brandon sure your body gets all the required nutricommunity, Medi Weightloss has helped ents it needs. its clients lose over thirty thousand After the strict phase is over, the staff pounds since 2006. Tom Willett, the begins to educate clients on meal planowner, knows firsthand, “I did the proning. “We’ve had patients lose as much gram about nine years ago because I as 250 pounds. Not in 13 weeks, but they wanted to lose weight and to experience get it off and they keep it off. That’s the what the patients experience. I was on key: keeping it off,” Willet said. the diet for 21 days straight, and I lost 25 Medi Weightloss is located at 203 W. pounds,” he said. Plus, Willett was able to Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. For a free keep it off with the continuing support of assessment to have your body mass the staff as he incorporated what he index (BMI) calculated and speak to the learned into his life. staff about a plan that works for you, call When clients come to Medi 654-1110. Visit http://bit.ly/1T1sqVl. Weightloss, they gain an accountability
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April 2016
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Brandon Edition
Sports
Connection
Story and photos by Tamas Mondovics
Golden City Gymnasts Bring Home Gold Medals Stephanie Estrada, Sidney Yoder, Emma Sadler, Hannah Weatherford and Nhi Nguyen, who also won the level 7 State All-Around Championship title. Level 8 regional qualifiers were Carrington Crobons, Megan Dunbar, Hailey Norman, Kiara Jenkins along with Sydney Taylor (level 8 All-Around Champion) and Sophia Bonebrake (level 8 State All-Around Champion). Level 9 regional qualifiers were Hannah Drielick, Valerie Huber and Cierra Koehring. Level 10 regional qualifiers were Rayna and Ariana Brandon’s Golden City Gymnastics Level 6 team Light. members smile after they clinched the gold team title at last month’s state competition. GCG’s level 6-8 team has been working hard to prove itself in Coaches and parents could not have Ashville, North Carolina, while competing been more proud of their young athletes in Regionals scheduled for this month. from Golden City Gymnastics who particiThe gym’s level 9-10 team also competed pated in a recent competition. in Orlando this month. “Our girls did awesome,” said Golden “Once the season is over, we will City Gymnastics Coach (GCG) and training the girls for the next level,” begin Spokesperson Shauna Swartz, who Swartz said, adding summer is an imporexplained that 21 out of 24 of the girls season for gymnasts as it is then that tant have qualified for Regionals, seven won the girls get to develop new skills which State All-Around Gold and several others they will use during the upcoming seafinished in the top three. son. “Every year our team is getting “Our Level 6 team also won the team and I cannot wait to see what stronger title placing first in the state,” she said. our girls can accomplish this summer and “We are so excited for our girls to head to next season.” regionals. They had an amazing season Golden City Gymnastics is located at and we are so proud of them.” 930 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Brandon and Level 6, regional qualifiers and State is a training facility dedicated to training All-Around Champions included Emerson whole athlete, mind, body, and spirit the Fisk, Gianna Johnson and Keeley Bynun, as it is offering a variety of classes for while Hayden Rosania was first alternate boys and girls from 18 months old to 18for regionals. The team also won the years-old. For more information, visit state title. www.goldencitygymnastics.com. Level 7 regional qualifiers included
Bloomingdale High School Winter Guards Earn Medals At State Championship show, Spellbound, to win a gold medal as well as the Florida State Championship in the Scholastic B Imagination Division, placing the program on top out of 33 schools across the state. Following JV’s state victory, Jada Flowers took her turn and performed in the Solo Dance Category to win silver. Team Bloomingdale Senior High School indoor guard celebrate their Captains include gold medal win during the Florida Federation of Colorguards Meghan Cerjan, Emily Circuit Winterguard, State Championship. Glidden, Shaye The Florida Federation of Tomberlin, Matt Handler and Alyssa Colorguards Circuit (FFCC) Winterguard Bratz. State Championship held in Daytona The third day of competition featured Beach has produced gold, silver and the school’s Varsity Crimson Guard, bronze medals for members of the performed its show entitled, “My which Bloomingdale High Senior High School Vision is…” and earned a Bronze medal Varsity and Junior Varsity Guards earlier as the No.3 Scholastic A team - Company this month. Division within the state of Florida. The success of both programs during FFCC offers a competitive outlet The the three-day event featuring skilled during winter for color guard, indoor guards in dance, weapon, saber and flag, marching percussion and concert percuswas the culmination of their indoor comsion teams and Winds. The competitive petition season, which runs from January season begins in January and culminates through April, directed by Coach Billy in its Circuit Championships in early April, Sullivan. while offering a variety of competitive Bloomingdale High School Junior classes ranging from the first year unit to Varsity indoor guard, led by co-captains the seasoned competitor. For more inforKaitlyn Proefrock, Bailey Betts and mation, visit www.ffcc.com. Bethany McCullum, performed their
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Page 30
Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
Sidewalk Sale, Spring Concert, Republican Club Meets & More… Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com Alafia Republican Club Meeting Brandon Masonic Lodge Presents Yates On Tuesday, April 26 at 6 p.m. at Elementary Beef O’Brady’s, located at 4330 Bell School With A Shoals Rd. in Valrico, the Alafia Donation Republican Club welcomes Jim Norman, Republican candidate for Hillsborough County Commission, District 6, to the club to discuss his candidacy. Stanley Gray, candidate for Hillsborough County School Board, will also be present to discuss his candidacy. Contact Club President Adam L. Bantner, II, at Adam.Bantner@ BrandonLegalGroup.com for more information.
The Top 10 Ways to Improve Your Hearing in Tampa Bay This special open-house presentation given by the Hearing Loss Association of America Tampa Chapter will highlight the latest cutting edge treatments, technologies, programs and community initiatives that can help people with hearing loss to significantly improve their hearing. It will be presented at the Brandon Regional Library on Tuesday, May 3 at 619 Vonderberg Dr. in Brandon at 1 p.m. and again at 5:30 p.m.
Brandon Masonic Lodge Number 114, located at 203 Moon Ave. in Brandon, conducted a fund raising fish fry to benefit education programs at Yates Elementary School last month. The Lodge raised $1,600 and Jack Hampton, Master of Brandon Masonic Lodge, presented Principal Richard Shields and Angela Oser, Exceptional Student Education Specialist, with the check at an open meeting last month. Principal Shields indicated that the funds would be used to benefit Exceptional and Special Education Programs at Yates Elementary. Brandon Masonic Lodge Number 114 conducts this fish fry to benefit Yates Elementary School in March of each year as part of the Adopt-a-School and Adopt-aTeacher Program. Additionally at these events, the Red Cross
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Eastern Hillsborough Community Band welcomes the community to its 2016 Spring Concert on Thursday, May 5.
Bloodmobile is invited to gather donations, and nonperishable food items are gathered in support of the local ECHO food drive. Visit www.brandonlodge.org or call 689-4221 during limited hours. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m.
Brandon MS Support Group Meets
The Brandon MS Support Group meets the fourth Monday of each month from 7-9 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Regional Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Contact 454-7585 or BrandonMSsupportGroup@gmail.co m.
Designer and Name Brands For Sale At Sidewalk Sale
A sidewalk sale will be held at Inna’s Alterations & Repair, located in the Bloomingdale Professional Center at 1548 Bloomingdale Ave. E. (west of Bloomingdale High School) in Valrico on Saturday, May 7 from 9
a.m.-3 p.m. Over 50 pieces of namebrand and designer clothing will be for sale. Come and check out shorts, pants, and dresses, including prom and homecoming dresses. Call 6514416.
Spring Concert Schedule For Eastern Hillsborough Community Band
Audience and band member favorites will be performed by the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band (EHCB) during the band’s 2016 Spring Concert. EHCB is a full-sized concert band that has been entertaining the Tampa Bay area since 2009. The Band Remembers – Selections From Our Past series includes Tijuana Brass, Pirates of the Caribbean and Star Wars. A performance will take place on Thursday, May 5 at 7 p.m. at the Strawberry Ridge Clubhouse at 3419 S.R. 60 E. in Valrico. A $5 suggested donation will be asked at the door. Reservations are not required. Call 569-1771, email info@ ehcb.org or visit www.ehcb.org.
April 2016
Page 31
Brandon Edition
Learn Music In Your Home With Local Painting From The Heart Seeks Single Mom To Receive Exterior Home Makeover Traveling Instructor By Marie Gilmore By Andria Barrios
Chloe Caputo (above) is one of the many in her family taught by mobile music instructor Daniel Swartwood (right).
Daniel Swartwood, a local music instructor, offers private piano and keyboard lessons within the comfort of the homes of his students. As a teacher at various music schools for the past 25 years, this musician has a Master’s in composition and a Bachelor’s in performance. Swartwood, who’s also principle pianist and keyboardist at the First Baptist Church of Riverview, began playing the piano as a toddler and has played in churches since his preteen years. “I teach all levels; beginner, intermediate and advanced,” he explained. He also teaches many homeschool students. Swartwood teaches more than just traditional piano. He also instructs in electronic keyboard, as well as composition
and songwriting of many genres from movie soundtracks to praise and worship. He’s willing to teach all over Brandon, Valrico, Plant City, Riverview and FishHawk, and has competitive pricing, but the main thing Swartwood prides himself on is his diverse background, as he has played in every state barring Alaska and Hawaii. “I have a real world base that I can draw on every day, from my experience with Broadway and classical to pop and praise and worship bands,” said Swartwood. This instructor is also diverse in what he offers students. “If they like classical music, we focus on that, if they’d rather jazz or religious, we’ll do that. I teach the basics but I also use the student as a guide,” said Swartwood, who has been background checked to work with children. “Daniel has a very strong knowledge of music theory and uses current, innovative piano techniques in his teaching,” said student Carole Fluhart. Mother of a student, Kerrie Hoening said, “With such a hectic schedule, it’s helpful and convenient to have lessons at my home, rather than us squeezing in drive time.” “Sharing music is a great privilege and I’ve known from a young age that I wanted to teach,” Swartward, who is currently open to new students, said. To find out more or to schedule a lesson, call 841-4752 or visit www.mobilemusicinstructors.com or bit.ly/25nnHDX.
teenage boys, lost her husband from a tragic heart attack and was finding it hard to keep up with the exterior of her home. Past Painting from the Heart recipients include, Brandon single mom Sharon Cooley, who adopted a son and two young siblings, The Ellis family of Riverview, whose father, Jason, is a wounded Iraq war veteran with five children and most recently, Lithia single mom Daniella Vetencourt whose oldest son has special Nominate a deserving single mom to receive an needs. exterior home makeover. See entry form below. “I am so thrilled with the way the house came out,” said Once again this year, Rob Silver, Ramoska, “I don’t have to be embarowner of Dynamic Painting USA, and the rassed about how it looks anymore. Osprey Observer have teamed together Painting From the Heart is the perfect to offer a Mother’s Day Painting From the name for your campaign, for your crew Heart campaign. The campaign, intended were all so wonderful and worked so to give an exterior home paint job to a hard.” single mom in the community, has been a Silver is also pleased with the parthuge success and Silver plans to continnership with the Osprey Observer and the ue the effort this upcoming Mother’s Day of the campaign and says that he impact by once again giving away an exterior is able to do it once again this year. home paint job. “We believe in giving back to the “I am a small business owner,” said community,” said Silver. “And there is no Silver. “But, if I can give back and make a better feeling than seeing an entire family huge impact for a local family and a local light up with the opportunity to pick a new mom for Mother’s Day, I am happy to do house color.” it.” To enter or nominate a single mom, Silver’s commitment to serving others email contest@ospreyobserver.com with began when he was a child, tagging a letter regarding the family and a photo along with his mom as she volunteered in the exterior of the house by Thursday, of the community. April 30 or contact Silver at Dynamic One of the past recipients of a free Painting at 689-9333 or visit www.dynamexterior paint job is Pam Ramoska. icpaintingusa.com. Ramoska, a single mom with two
Enter to Win
a free exterior home paint job for a local Single Mom
Painting from the
Heart in partnership with
In 500 words or less, please tell us why you or someone you know deserves an exterior paint job for a single mom for Mother’s Day. Please submit a photo of the home. Email entries to: editor@ospreyobserver.com.
Name:_____________________________________________________________ Address:____________________________________________________________ Community:_________________________________________________________ Square footage of home:_______________________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________________________________ Email:______________________________________________________________
Lake Brandon Village (813) 655-1237 | Westfield Brandon Mall (813) 654-6769
www.chickfilabrandon.com
Enter to win online at www.ospreyobserver.com, fax to 657-4469 or mail to 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511. **certain restrictions apply
Send entries to editor@ospreyobserver.com
Page 32
Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 4
Story by Tamas Mondovics
Excellence In Education Winners Announced & Students Participate in Engineering Technology Tours
Three educators were recently honored during the Excellence in Education Awards.
District Announces Excellence in Education Winners
Three outstanding educators and support staff were recently honored as this year’s winners of the Excellence in Education Awards. The winners were chosen out of 699 total nominees, which was funneled down to 14 finalists (four finalists for Ida S. Baker, three finalists for Instructional Support, and seven finalists for Teacher of the Year). The Hillsborough Education Foundation, along with Hillsborough County Public Schools, presented the awards last month at the David A. Straz Center for the Performing Arts. The 2016 Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year award went to Young Middle Magnet School Guidance Counselor, Angela McKinnon. As an English education major and graduate of the University of South Florida, McKinnon has been with the Hillsborough County
School District for 17 years. After 10 years as a high school English teacher, she transitioned into the world of guidance and counseling, impacting the lives of countless students by working with community partners; The Girl Scouts of West Central Florida, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Tampa Alumnae Chapter. McKinnon has created various counseling programs: Chit Chat City, Cocoa Book Club and Chit Chat Crochet, all sponsored through Donors Choose grants and community donations. Also awarded was Just Elementary School Resource Deputy Wayne Moore, who has earned the 2016 Instructional Support Employee of the Year. Moore is a 17-year U.S. Army veteran and current Navy Reservist and has been in the district since 2001. According to district officials, Moore’s goal is to uplift students to their fullest potential. The 2016 Teacher of the Year award
Enter to Win
A Spa Day for one local mother in honor of Mother’s Day One winning mother will receive a 50 minute relaxation massage plus a soothing spa facial at DayDreams Day Spa located in Brandon in honor of Mother’s Day. In 500 words or less, tell us why your mother deserves a spa day.
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: FRIDAY, APRIL 29 Name:_____________________________________________________________ Address:____________________________________________________________ Community:_________________________________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________________________________ Email:______________________________________________________________ Enter to win online at www.ospreyobserver.com, fax to 657-4469 or mail to 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511.
Send entries to editor@ospreyobserver.com
went to Plant High School Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Teacher Mary Beth Radigan. Radigan received her Bachelor’s from Ohio University majoring in special education and has been teaching for 29 years, nine of which in Hillsborough County. Pawbucks Coffee Shop, Paw Prints Cheerleading, Organic and Hydroponic Gardening and Unified Special Olympics are all programs Radigan has helped introduce to Plant High School. Vsit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.
Hillsborough County Students Participate in Engineering Technology Experience Tours
During a series of tours, nearly 100 students from the School District of Hillsborough County had a chance to visit the engineering technology lab at Hillsborough Community College in Brandon. According to HCC officials, the Engineering Technology Experience (ETE) tours are conducted on a yearly basis by the Florida Advanced Technological Education (FLATE), the Florida-based National Science Foundation Center of
Excellence at HCC-Brandon, to give students a 360 degree perspective of educational and career pathways in manufacturing. “All tours showcased applications/integration of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, or STEM-based concepts, in everyday high-tech manufacturing operations,” said FLATE Spokesperson Janice Mukhia. “During the ETE tours, students engage in activities that will give them a hands-on understanding about STEM and high-tech manufacturing operations.” As part of the process, Mukhia added that students get a chance to see equipment demonstrations of the robotic arm, 3-D printing operations, NAO humanoid robots, and engage in discussions about manufacturing careers, educational pathways and opportunities that are available in Florida. FLATE is one of 39 Advanced Technological Education Centers in the United States focused on improving science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and training to meet the needs of American advanced technology industries. Visit www.fl-ate.org.
April 2016
Page 33
Brandon Edition
Limit 3 packs
WE GLADLY ACCEPT ALL INSURANCES
Themed Weeks At BSAC Promise Creativity And Fun
What should we do with the kids this summer? At Brandon Sports & Aquatic Center (BSAC) your child gets the state-park oldfashioned camp experience you had as a child, with some modern technology, like Wii Challenge Competitions, thrown in. The Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center has the most comprehensive summer camp in the greater Brandon area for ages 3 to 14. In addition, each child has the opportunity to experience all of the sports that you have come to expect at BSAC; swimming, tennis, diving and more. Each child has option to attend BSAC's Summer Camp per day or week. A Full Day Program is available from 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. for $145/week per child. Half day programs, 7 a.m.-1 p.m. or 1-6:30 p.m. are available from $85/week per child. There is a $35 daily charge per child for a one day drop-in fee. Advance notice required and also a $35 registration fee per child. Camp weeks run from Monday, June 8 through Friday, August 21. Visit bit.ly/1W6OcHz for more information on the weekly themes. Contact Youth Development Director Christie Lemar at clemar@mybsac.org or call
Kids ‘R’ Kids Summer Games is an olympic themed camp this year.
member services at 689-0908 for more information on camps.
Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Global View of Rio 2016 Olympic Games
Enroll your kids for Summer Games 2016 Camp at Kids R Kids. The all new Kids ‘R’ Kids Summer Games prove the ideal destination for 5 to 12 year old boys and girls. By providing a global view of Rio 2016 Olympic Games, campers will experience an interactive peek inside participating countries’ cultures, customs, cuisine and more. Add to that a unique twist on the games themselves, and campers will experience 10 weeks designed to instill confidence, encourage teamwork and foster fun. After 30 years of providing unforgettable summer camp experiences for children, Kids
• 6 Weeks Through 12 Years • Full & Part Time Options • Open: M-F 6am to 6:30pm • Creative Curriculum for Infants & Toddlers • ABC Mouse Computer Technology • Brainwaves Curriculum • APPLE Accreditation • CITA Approved Curriculum • Security Code Access Entry • FREE Internet Viewing of Your Child’s Day • Outdoor Playgrounds with Water Park • Before & After School Care: 6-12 Years
‘R’ Kids has found that whenever you combine physical activity, interactive learning and good old-fashioned fun – everybody wins. The cost is $155 per week (new families only) and includes field trips, meals and transportation. Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico is located at 4321 Lynx Paw Tr. in Valrico. For more information on this location, call 6576200. Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Circa/FishHawk is located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia. For more information, call 5267000.
Let Your Imagination Take Flight At Camp Primrose
This summer, imagination takes flight
$155 per week
Includes field trips, meals, and transportation New families only. Expires 8/30/16
My Gym is offering Summer Camp for ages 3 through 13 years 11 months. During camp, children move and stay active throughout the program, and just like all My Gym classes and programs,
CIRCA FISHHAWK - 813-526-7000 (Located next to Stowers Elementary and Mosaic)
NOW ENROLLING SUMMER & FALL VPK Voluntary Pre Kindergarten 2016-17 FREE 3 Hr Program with “Pay for rest of day” Option
• Nutritious Meals & Snacks: Low Salt & Sugar • Spanish & Music Included • Trained Professional Staff, Certified in First Aid & CPR • Extracurricular Programs
www.KRKCirca.com
Kids Are On The Move At My Gym Summer Camp
Now Enrolling Summer Camp
Stowers, Valrico Academy, FishHawk Creek, Bevis, Lithia Springs, Alafia, Cimino, and Foundation Christian
5815 Kids Crossing Drive
at Summer Adventure Club at Primrose. Among exciting classroom activities, camp “Explorers” will be going on two field trips every week to enjoy what the local community has to offer. These trips include a voyage aboard Captain Memo’s pirate ship, “cooking” at the California Pizza Kitchen, hiking at Lettuce Lake Park, an afternoon of Improv at the Florida Studio Theater, trips to MOSI and the Ringling Museum in Sarasota, and more. Even with all the fun, Primrose has many learning opportunities planned through its creative, hands-on curriculum, emphasizing literacy, science, and mathematics, while keeping young minds sharp this summer. Its experienced teachers are trained in education and safety. Summer Adventure Club is now accepting registrations for children aged 5 to 10. Visit the school at 1280 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico or call 438-5980 for more information.
• Accelerated Pre-K Curriculum with Math, Science, Spanish, Music, Sign Language & More • Preparation for National Kindergarten Standards • Must be 4 years old by September 1, 2016 • Must be Florida resident
Two Great Locations!
VALRICO - 813-657-6200 4321 Lynx Paw Trail
(Located across fromLithia Springs Elementary)
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no two days are ever the same. My Gym Camp was created to enhance physical development, promote social interaction, and bring about personal success. The cost for non-members is $31 per half-day (three hours). For members the cost is $29. Bulk discount options are available. All children must be pottytrained. Healthy snacks and all-natural juice will be served to all campers during each camp day. Space is limited, so sign up today. Those paying in advance will have a guaranteed spot. Walk-ins are welcome if there is availability. For more information, call 579-6872 or book online.
Patel Conservatory Offers Dance, Theater And Music Camps, Classes
The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory, located in downtown Tampa, offers nationally recognized intensives, camps and classes in the areas of dance, theater and music. Whether your child is skilled in the arts or wants to participate for the very first time, it offers a fun-filled summer for students of all ages and skill levels at our state-of-the-art facility.
For more information, visit patelconservatory.org or call 222-1002.
Your Child’s Best Summer Ever At YMCA Camps
At the YMCA, you kids will feel welcome and supported in their developmental journeys. This summer you are invited to enroll your kids in YMCA Summer Camps. The days will be full of educational adventures and exciting exploration. They will meet new lifelong friends along the way. Summer camps run from Monday, June 13 through Friday, August 5. Camps start at $135 per week. Camp hours are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with extended care from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. at no additional cost. For more detailed information or to register online, visit www.tampaymca.org.
Music And Acting Fun At The Florida Academy of Performing Arts
Summer Camp at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts will allow your child’s creativity to surface. They can choose from Music, Acting, Singing, Guitar and Drums. There will be field trips and more fun. Acting in musicals will also be offered: Knight at Dawn Kids, Fiddler
Continued on Next Page
NOW ENROLLING FOR SUMMER ART CAMP! POTTERY WHEEL REATE COME C S! WITH U CANVAS PAINTING SCULPTURE MOSAICS GLASS FUSING AND MORE! Call or visit us online for camp details and registration:
(813) 315-9803
REGISTER ONLINE!
Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.
Located in Park Square - FishHawk Ranch
just 10 minutes from Brandon, Valrico, and Riverview!
WWW.ARTANDICECREAM.COM
Session 1 June 20-24 (M-F)
Session 2 July 11-15 (M-F)
Session 3 July 25-29 (M-F)
Location: FishHawk Sports Complex Space is Limited Age Group: 7 - 15 yrs Register Early Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to hold your spot! Cost: $175/camper **(Second Child $125) **Multi week discounts
Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:
Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com
on the Roof, High School Musical and HONK! Camp is for ages 5 and up and is available both for the full day or half day. There is free early drop-off and after camp pick-up. The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 490-2787 or visit faopa.org.
Create Great Memories At Art Monkey’s Summer Art Camp
Art Monkey is now enrolling for summer art camp. Your kids can enjoy creating on a pottery wheel, canvas painting, sculptures, mosaics, glass fusing and more. Camp classes are small so that each artist can receive individual attention. The camp counselors are experienced and great with kids. There are three age groups for camp: ages 4-6, 7-14 and an evening Teen Camp (only one) for ages 14-16. Art Monkey is located in FishHawk Ranch’s Park Square at 16114 Churchview Dr. in Lithia. For more information or to register online, visit www.artandicecream.com or call 315-9803.
Center Place Summer Art Workshops Will Keep Creativity Flowing
Who knew art could be so much fun? There are so many choices this summer for your 7-16 year old students at Center Place Fine Arts where they can learn about painting, drawing, pottery, modeling and more. Classes are offered from Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and include art journaling, art mural, beginning photography, creative 3-D masks, family pottery, paper sculptures, recycled art, space art and more. Center Place Fine Arts is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. Visit www.centerplacebrandon.org to learn about each of the classes or call 685-8888 for more information.
The Peacock’s Plume Offers Christian Curriculum Summer Camps
The Peacock’s Plume offers a rigorous Christian curriculum for children, 6 weeks to 5-years-old. It has a language program incorporating sign-language,
Christian Preschool 6 weeks - 5 years Secure Entry & Internet Viewing Mandarin Chinese and Spanish Language Programs FREE Summer VPK
813-684-0700 www.ThePeacocksPlume.com 1094 Bloomingdale Avenue Valrico
Call for a FREE Academic Consultation
813-681-9900
4333 Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico (located in the RiverHills Plaza)
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Reading, Math, Writing, Advanced Math & Sciences, Spanish, SAT/ACT Prep, Common Core Prep, Study Skills & College Planning
www.TutoringClub.com •
Tutoring Club of Valrico
Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. There is a Voluntary PreKindergarten class for fall and summer. It has a double entry secure facility, camera system, and new playground. The entire staff is trained in preschool education, CPR and first-aid certified. For more information, visit www.thepeacocksplume.com or call 684-0700.
2016 Ostingers Baseball Academy Summer Camps
Ostingers Baseball Camp will take place during the weeks of June 20-24, July 11-15, and July 25-29 from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the FishHawk Sports Complex. Ostingers staff is made up of all former professional players who instruct. They want to teach the game from the ground up. The camp is not a full day camp with video games, indoor activites, etc. The instructors include Jim Osting, a baseball Instructor with 10 years of professional baseball playing experience; two years of Major League Experience (Padres and Brewers); Patrick Ryan– baseball instructor with eight years professional pitching experience; Kris Wilken– Head Baseball
Coach at Bloomingdale High School Camp will take place from and college and high Monday through Friday, July 11school players trained 15. The cost is $90. Soccer by Ostingers Academy Camp will take place Mondayto assist your child Friday, July 25-29. The cost is $90, and Tennis Camp will take throughout their camp place Monday through Friday, experience. August 1-5 for $50. Additional help is All camps are for ages 7-14 provided from Ostinger at at at Camps Dates: except Volleyball Camp will be players current and Camps Dates: June 15th through June 15th for ages 8-14. Sign up at least past to make the August 5th through at August 5th one week prior to each camp. campers’ experience one of a kind. Camps Dates: The cost includes a T-shirt. With the instructors and the June 15th Sign Up for through Sign Up for We specialize in horse experiences for Summer Camp Registration forms and paystaff, the ratio per camper is around August 5th specialize in horse experiences forSpace the youngWe child and beginner riders. Summer Camp is limited. the young child and beginner riders. Space is limited. 6:1. This ratio allows for added reps ment can be mailed to The MAC • Daily Trail Rides & Hay Rides Only $195 per wk. • Daily Trail Rides & Hay Rides Only per wk. (Mon. thru Fri. 9am$195 - Sign 5pm)Up for • Horse Education for each player and helps to break W R & R Ranch at FBC Brandon at 216 N. (Mon. Fri. 9am - 5pm) Summer Camps teach campers ride&thruhorses • Horse Education We specialize in horse experiences forPlayto Summer We Also Offer: Field Trips, Pony Parties, Trail Rides, Groups MoreCamp up the groups in age appropriate Parsons Avenue, Brandon, as well as how care for and other farm theto young child and beginner riders. Lithia, FLthem 33547 W Rides,animals. Play & More SpaceGroups is limited. 9805rrranchlithia.com Bryant Rd Lithia, FL 33547 V • Daily Rides Hay Rides Lithia, FLOnly 33547$195 per wk. FL 33510; or dropped off at the format. VisitTrail us on the &web: rrranchlithia.com Camp runs Monday through Friday from (Mon. thru Fri. 9am - 5pm) Education V rrranchlithia.com For• Horse more info call 813-653-3819 MAC front desk. For more information, The cost is $175 (multi week/ multi Also Offer: Trips, Parties, Rides, Play Groups & More 9 a.m.-5Wep.m. TheField cost forPony camp isTrail $195 camper discount). For more information, 9805 is Bryant Rd Lithia, FL 33547 call 315-3280 or visit located at 9805 per week. R&R Ranch Visit us on the web: rrranchlithia.comwww.fbcbrandon.org/summercamps. visit ostingbaseball.com or call 737-3000. Bryant Rd. in Lithia. Forinfo morecall information, For more 813-653-3819 call 653-3819 or visit Lots of Fun Horsing Around At R & R Summer Programs At The Tutoring www.rrranchlithia.com.
Summer Camp Summer Camp Summer Camp
Ranch Summer Camp
From Monday, June 13 through Friday, August 5, your child can attend camp at R&R Ranch, which specializes in horse experiences for the young child and beginner riders. Your child will enjoy daily trail rides and hay rides along with learning about grooming and the care of horses and farm animals. Field trips, pony rides and trail rides are offered. They will also enjoy movies and popcorn in the air conditioned camp house, as well as the petting zoo with baby bunnies, chicks, ducks and baby pigs. Also included are arts, crafts and more.
Club
MAC Summer Weekly Sports Camps
The MAC is offering five camps during the summer at 216 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Most of the camps will run from 9 a.m.1 p.m. with the exception of Tennis Camp which will run from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. Harlem Legends Basketball will be offered from Monday through Friday, June 20-24. The cost is $135. Basketball
Don’t let the academics rest over the summer months. Your student will receive individualized instruction from a staff of professional tutors at The Tutoring Club, now enrolling for its summer programs. Individualized programs for students Kindergarten through twelfth grade are available in reading, math, writing, advanced math & sciences, Spanish, SAT/ACT Prep, Common Core prep, study skills and college planning. The tutors work to reduce stress and
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build confidence by creating an individualized program for each student starting at a level that he or she can handle and then progressing through the grade levels as rapidly as the student’s learning pace allows. Results are guaranteed. Tutoring Club is located at 4333 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico (in the River Hills plaza). For more information, call 6819900 or visit www.TutoringClub.com.
MOSI Summer Science Camps Gather STEAM
MOSI’s Summer Science Camp brings science and technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) alive through hands-on experiments and building projects. From extracting DNA to launching rockets to building robots, MOSI camps are about creating the experiences that expand interests and make dreams a reality. Doing real science with the tools and technology used by professionals is just one of the ways MOSI Summer Science Camp inspires campers with a “can do” attitude that can last a lifetime. Real science coupled with exciting experiments, simulations, explorations, and inventions will help you discover the innovator within. MOSI Summer Science Camps will
take place from Monday, June 13 through Friday, August 12 and is offered for preschoolers to high school students. Convenient extended care is available from 7–9 a.m. and also from 4–6:30 p.m. Daily hot lunches are available. Become a MOSI member and save 25 percent on camp fees. MOSI is located at 4801 E. Fowler Ave. in Tampa. For more information, call 987-6000 or visit www.mosi.org.
Results Driven Programs Will Help Your Child With Reading, Handwriting And Social Skills
All About Speech & Language (AASL) is a premier therapy company offering a unique approach to therapy that is reflective of the needs of its clients and families. It offers highly skilled speech/language and occupational therapy services with unwavering commitment and dedication to providing quality, evidenced-based, results driven treatment. This summer it is excited to offer intensive individualized reading programs, handwriting assistance, and social skills programs (Socialights). Each program offers highly focused therapy assistance,
All About Speech & Language provides intensive individualized reading programs, handwriting assistance and social skills programs.
with ratios as small as 1:1. It will provide your child evidenced-based, results driven programs to help facilitate growth in the areas of reading, handwriting, and social skills over the summer. The business will continue to provide regular speech and occupational therapy as well. AASL is located at Winthrop Town Center, located at 6152 Delancey Station St., Ste. 205 in Riverview. For more information, visit www.aaspeech.com, visit on facebook.com/AASLTherapy or call 2200971 or email info@aaspeech.com.
Summer Intensives, Classes at Dance Quest International
Dance Quest in a dance studio in Brandon with Christian values which seeks to always encourage and uplift dancers, inspiring students to strive for excellence while utilizing discipline, love and self-worth through dance. It offers quality and professional training in every stage of dance instruction to achieve the
ultimate education and base in the art of dance. Dance Quest is hosting several clinics, intensives, workshops and classes during the summer. Registration is open online at www.DanceQuestOnline.com and at the studio located at 853 Lithia Pinecreast Rd. in Brandon Intro to Contemporary, 3-Day Clinic: Dancers will get a taste of contemporary as they learn the basics of contemporary movement. Contemporary dance is a fusion of ballet, jazz, and modern techniques. •Contemporary Clinic I (7–12 yrs) June 21-23, 5-6:30 p.m. $70 •Contemporary Clinic II (13 yrs and up) June 21 - 23, 7:30-9 p.m. $70 Intro to Tap, 3-Day Workshop: This concentrated workshop will be the perfect introduction for the dancers who have little or no Tap experience and are looking to take further Tap classes. In this workshop you will learn the basics, fundamentals and terminology of Tap technique, and highlighting the importance of rhythm
and sounds to prepare you for the next Dance Camp (Ages 3-7). Come celebrate level. a journey of kindness and courage •Intro Tap (7 years thru Adult) June through dance inspired by Cinderella. 21-23, 6:30- 7:30 p.m. $50 Your dancer will have a week filled with Ballet Intensives crafts, games, story and play time, and Intensives will challenge and help dance, as this beautiful tale is used to dancers grow in their Ballet technique & inspire and encourage the girls to be a kind princess after terminology, barre work, God's own heart. June centre floor work, 27–30, 10 a.m.-12 strength building, flexiNoon, $70. July 11–14, bility, pointe work, and 1:30-3:30 p.m., $70. history knowledge. Very Fairy Princess •Apprentice Level: Mini Camp (Ages 3-5 & Ballet Intensives, July 6-9). Come spread your 25 - 28, 9 a.m.-12 wings and let the fairy in Noon, 4-day intensive: you fly as we dance, $180/week. craft, have story time, •Junior Level: and discover all of Ballet Intensives, July the very fairy ways 11 - 14, 9 a.m.-1p.m. of the Land of and/or July 18-21, 9 Love. Dancers will a.m.-1p.m., 4-day learn about all five intensive: $240/week. Dance Quest International in love languages as •Senior Level: Brandon is hosting several camps, clinics, they dance and Ballet Intensives, June classes and intensives for dancers of learn about each 27 - 30, 9 a.m.-1p.m. every level this summer. Love Fairy. June and/or July 5-8, 9 a.m.27–30,1:30–3:30 p.m, $70. July 11–14, 1 p.m., 4-day intensive: $240/week. 10 a.m.-12 Noon, $70. Stay Strong All Summer Long Mary Poppins Musical Theatre Camp Classes (Ages 5-8 & 9-12). Sing, act, and dance Four weekly classes beginning July in Disney's most popular and timeless 5. Summer is the perfect time for your musicals of all times, Mary Poppins. It will dancer to be just starting out in her very be a week to remember with a Mini first dance class, or even keeping your Showcase for friends and family on the routine and skills up as your dancer conlast day of camp. July 18-21, 12:30-3:30 tinues to learn and grow. First dance p.m., $150 genre (4-week session) is $60 with $5 off Dancers registered before Tuesday, each additional session. Call for full May 17 will receive $5 off each item schedule. (camp, class, etc). No summer registraSummer Mini Dance Camps tion fee. Call 842-1687 for more info. Princess of Kindness & Courage
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Page 40
Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
The Bridges Chorus Provides Music, Memories And Merriment
By Janet Noah
are experiencing joy as they sing. Resident Pete Zylman has been singing in choruses since he was 18-years-old. He enjoys it as it is a worthwhile activity that keeps him busy and stimulates his mind. Resident Lucille Pianese said that singing is a way of expressing feelings. “The songs we sing bring back memories and the music revives me,” she said. According to a study conducted at McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Residents at The Bridges Assisted Living community and published in Trends in enjoy the opportunity to sing throughout the month durCognitive Science, April 2013, ing their scheduled activity program times. evidence found that the beneSinging provides many benefits for fits of singing “significantly improved psythe elderly. Ongoing research has shown chological health and well-being through that regular singing can lift your spirits, the engagement of neurochemical sysincrease your immunity and provide a tems responsible for reward, motivation, workout for your brain and your lungs. pleasure, stress/arousal, immunity and These benefits are significant for those social affiliation.” experiencing mild to moderate dementia. Philosopher and psychologist William The Bridges Assisted Living commuJames understood the benefits of singing nity offers residents the opportunity to when he said, “I don’t sing because I’m sing numerous times a month as part of happy, I’m happy because I sing.” their scheduled Activity Program. As a lifelong singer, resident Mary Residents partake in karaoke, sing-aGrimshaw loves the newly formed cholongs, church services, and, most recentrus. ly, The Bridges Choir. Under the direction “I can feel my mood being lifted and I of Wellness Coordinator Gary Lenza, res- feel good when I sing. It brings back good idents join voices and sing music from memories of the years when I sang in their era. The Bridges Choir has experihigh school and college,” she said. enced steady growth with more residents For more information on The Bridges joining each month. From the smiles on Assisted Living Community, call 413-8900 their faces, it is apparent that the singers or visit bridgesretirement.com.
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April 2016
Gospel Concert, Fashion Show And Luncheon & More… Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com
Brandon Edition
First United Methodist Church of Brandon Changes Name
First United First Baptist Church of Methodist Church of Brandon, the oldest Bloomingdale To Host Gulf State church in the area, held a church conferQuartet Concert ence last fall where the congregation The Gulf State Quartet, one of cenvoted in favor of changing their name to tral Florida’s favorite gospel groups, will New Hope United Methodist Church. First be in concert at organized in 1875, First Baptist this church is Church of returning to its Bloomingdale, roots by changing located at 3303 E. its name. Bloomingdale Ave. Changing the in Valrico on name to New Saturday, May 7 Hope will also betat 6 p.m. Gulf ter reflect the spirit State is a gospel of mission work music ministry lived out by the from Hardee congregation. County. Call 689There are currently 3847 or email dar17 mission partleeng096 ners and three Enjoy a concert by the Gulf State Quartet on community initia@yahoo.com Saturday, May 7 at 6 p.m. at the First Baptist tives, including: a Church of Bloomingdale. Fashion Show Men’s Resource And Luncheon Presented By BCWC Center, which works with homeless and out-of-work men, a Food Co-Op where The Christian Women’s Connection attendees receive a $5 bag of food during (BCWC), together with The Dress Barn, meetings held the first and third Tuesdays will be presenting a Fashion show “This of the month, and a partnership with is how we do it...” on Monday, May 9 at McLane Middle School. Buildings located Bell Shoals Baptist Church in the on the campus are home to local nonSpecial Event Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The profits Lifecare of Brandon, the Brandon Boys & Girls Club, and a partnership with luncheon, fashion show and entertainthe Women’s Resource Center to provide ment event is nondenominational and transitional housing for homeless women no membership is required. The cost is & children. New Hope UMC is located at $15. First time guests pay $10. Please 121 N Knights Ave. Visit www.findmake a reservation by Monday, May 2 newhope.com or call 689-4161. to Lillie at 740-0098.
Page 41
Tampa Hillsborough Expressway Authority Approves $2.6 Million For Selmon Extension Conceptual Design
By Tamas Mondovics
THEA's CEO and Executive Director, Joe Waggoner as he talked about the agency’s mission and vision in connection with transportation solutions for the Tampa Bay area communities. The Selmon Extension is a 1.6-mile toll lane from Dale Mabry Highway to the Gandy An artistic rendering gives a better idea of the Selmon Bridge that is proposed to run 30 Extension, a 1.6-mile toll lane from Dale Mabry feet high above the median of Highway to the Gandy Bridge. Gandy Boulevard and create a choice for local residents and The Lee Roy Selmon Expressway regional travelers. Future commuters can has been serving thousands of southuse Gandy Boulevard for local destinaeastern Hillsborough County commuters tions or the Selmon Extension for a conwell, including a large number of military to the Selmon Expressway or the nection personnel who are making their way to Gandy Bridge. MacDill Air Force Base, or to Tampa The need for a solution as well as the General Hospital. Unfortunately, comidea to build an elevated highway over muters’ smooth sailing of the roadway Gandy is a long time coming, considering only goes so far, prompting motorist and the gridlock that has plagued the roadway local officials to seek solutions for trafficturning the boulevard into a traffic by plagued areas beyond the end of the nightmare for years. The extension’s conSelmon track. struction phases as well as its visual In an effort to relieve congestion and impact on the community may not be to provide an alternate route for travelers everyone’s first choice, but according to seeking an easier and quicker access to THEA officials, at the end, it is a reasonthe harbor or to the Gandy Bridge, the alternative to the current traffic woes able Tampa Hillsborough Expressway and their subsequent affects felt by Authority (THEA) Board of Directors motorists, businesses and area residents. unanimously voted to approve $2.6 milAside from the design, the projected lion for conceptual designs of the Selmon of the extension could reach $190 cost Extension in February. million funded by tolls. Benefits of the THEA owns, maintains, and operates above ground designs is that the elevated four facilities within Hillsborough County: road would not destroy homes or stores. the Selmon Expressway, the Brandon In preparation for a hurricane, both lanes Parkway, Meridian Avenue, and the could serve as an eastbound evacuation Selmon Greenway. route. The possible completion date is “You don't think about it consciously, 2020. Visit www.selmonextension.com. but you place a value on your time,” said
Page 42
Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
Students can choose from various options to whet their appetite for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), with a special “Girls Only” camp to kick off the season. All camps will be held at Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, Hillsborough Community michelle@ospreyobserver.com College in Brandon. Cost for the intro and intermediate camp is $175 per week; cost for the high school engineering and techEagle Scout Awarded To Andrew camp is $200 a week. nology Tumlin This year’s (Monday to Friday) Andrew Tumlin is a member of Boy schedule and list of camp offerings Scout Troop #632 in Lithia. In February include: he received his Eagle Scout Award at June 20-24: Immanuel Lutheran Introductory EV3 Church in Robotics Camp for Brandon. For his Eagle Middle School, GIRLS Scout Service Project, ONLY! Tumlin oversaw the June 27-July 1: construction and instalEV3 Introductory lation of benches for Robotics Camp for ALL the soccer field at Middle School students Immanuel Lutheran July 11-15: Church and School. Intermediate EV3 Tumlin has been active Robotics Camp for ALL in scouting since first School students Middle grade at FishHawk July 25-29: Creek Elementary. He Engineering is now 16 and a junior Technology Camp for New Eagle Scout Andrew Tumlin. at Newsome High School Students High School. For more information on FLATE’s Robotics And Engineering Camps For 2016 Robotics and High School Technology camps, visit www.flMiddle And High School Students ate.org/projects/camps.html, FLATE, the Florida Advanced and www.madeinflorida.org. Technological Education Center, a Contact barger@fl-ate.org. Tampa-based National Science Foundation Center of Excellence, is hostLocal Teens Participate In Miss ing several robotics and engineering Florida Teen Pageant camps this summer for middle and high In February several young ladies school students across Tampa Bay. from the Tampa Bay area competed in
STEM Summer Camp, Healthy Kids Day At Local Y’s & More…
the Miss Florida Teen Achieve Scholarship Pageant at the Radisson Resort Celebration in Orlando. Congratulations to 15-year-old Angelena Baldi from Armwood High School for being crowned Miss Florida Jr Teen Achieve 2016 and overall talent winner for her vocal performance. Baldi's personal platform is The Importance of Volunteering: Don't just be a number, make it count. Also from Armwood High School is 16-year-old Ashley Johns who proudly presented Key Club as her personal platform. Johns won Best Overall Interview, Platform Presentation, the Teen Achieve Inspiration Award in addition to being crowned Miss Sunshine State Teen Achieve 2016. Representing AVID as her personal platform and receiving high marks from judges in Speech and Athletic Wear 16year-old Karysia Moran-Adames from Riverview High school took home the Miss Florida Teen Achieve 2016 title. These young ladies won top honors and will represent their schools, community and personal platforms by competing May 26-30 at the national Miss American Teen Achieve Scholarship Pageant in Anaheim, California. Join in on Saturday, May 7 at 1 p.m. at Christ Community Church of Brandon for a Ladies Royal Tea & Fundraiser in their honor and to celebrate their accomplishments.
Tampa YMCA Hosts Annual Healthy Kids Day
On Saturday, April 30, nine Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA branches are holding free community events to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active. This year marks
the 25th annual YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, the Y’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families. The free events feature activities such as active games, healthy snacks and crafts to motivate and teach families how to develop healthy routines at home. YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, celebrated at over 1,300 Ys across the country by over 1.2 million participants, works to get more kids moving and learning, creating habits that they continue all summer long, which is a critical time for kids’ health. Research shows without access to out-ofschool physical and learning activities, kids fall behind academically. As spring turns to summer, Healthy Kids Day is a powerful reminder not to let children idle away their summer days. Instead, the Y hopes to focus on wowing them with their potential and make this their best summer ever by staying active and learning. Locally Healthy Kids Day will take place at Campo Family YMCA, 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (684-1371) and North Brandon Family YMCA, 3097 S. Kingsway Rd. in Seffner from 12-4 p.m. (685-5402).
Bloomingdale Athletic Booster Club Golf Tournament
A Golf Tournament hosted by the Bloomingdale Athletic Booster Club will take place on Saturday, May 14 at the Bloomingdale Golfers Club, 4113 Great Golfers Pl. in Valrico. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and tee off is 8:30 a.m. Limited to the first 36 paid teams. Entries must be received by Sunday, May 1. The cost is $300 for four player team or $75 for single player and includes breakfast and lunch. For more information, contact Donny Peek at 744-8018 (ext. 225) or Sue Burkett at 744-8018 (ext. 223).
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President - Fred Velazquez | Merideth Van Auken - Vice President Luke Hardiman - Football Commissioner | Marcia Kneusel - Cheer Coordinator | Jerry Allen - Registrar
April 2016
Brandon Edition
Page 43
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Local Historical Writer Doris Weatherford Honored With Lifetime Achievement Award Doris Weatherford of Seffner is a prolific historical writer. She has written a dozen books on the subject of women’s history over a three decade period. Her first book, Foreign and Female: Immigrant Women in America, 1840-1930 was published in 1986. It was revised and expanded in 1995. Of the 12 books written by Weatherford, two of them feature local history including Real Women of Tampa and Hillsborough County and They Dared to Dream: Florida Women Who Shaped History. The latter book was published in 2015. A recent visit to the Bloomingdale Regional Library revealed a four to five person wait list to check out this book. In addition to her important and impressive work as a historical writer, Weatherford has also been involved in political campaigns and public service both locally and on a national level. Weatherford served on several Citizens’ Advisory Committees including ones for the Hillsborough School Board, the Hillsborough County Commission and the Environmental Protection Commission. She was also appointed a Trustee of Hillsborough Community College by the late Governor Lawton Chiles. Today, Weatherford, a resident of Seffner for 40 years, continues to write a weekly column in La Gaceta, the nation’s only trilingual newspaper which has been published in Tampa since 1922. Weatherford’s column is called In
Doris Weatherford of Seffner (third from left) was honored for her work as an author, advocate of women’s rights and public service by the League of Women Voters. Weatherford was presented with the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Context. In it, Weatherford puts current events into historical context. She is also a member of the Winthrop Arts Board of Visionaries. Weatherford said, “Of all the boards on which I have served, the Winthrop Arts Board is the best one. Everyone contributes and does their share without egos getting in the way.” For all of her accomplishments, Weatherford was recently honored by the League of Women Voters of Hillsborough County with their 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award. The award is given to an individual who has dedicated his or her life to serving the public through education and advocacy at the local, state and national level. At the award ceremony held last month in Tampa, the Honorable Betty
Castor in introducing Weatherford said, “She is the ultimate champion of women.” Hillsborough County Commissioner Sandra Murman called Weatherford “a trailblazer.” Weatherford was presented with a commendation signed by all seven county commissioners. Weatherford was born in Minnesota. When she was about 10, her family moved to Arkansas. She graduated from Arkansas Tech (now known as Arkansas Tech University). She met her husband, Roy, there. He is a retired professor from USF, philosopher and academic union leader. Roy went to Harvard where he received his doctorate degree in 1972. Weatherford received a graduate fellowship from Brandeis University in Boston. While living in Boston, she taught
and ultimately took a graduate course at Harvard on immigration. While in the course, Weatherford had the tenacity to question her professor on some of the statistics he cited. Specifically, the professor suggested that women did not fare as well as men when they immigrated. Weatherford knew from her own family history that the women who immigrated to the United States were in fact the ones who held the family together and assimilated better than their husbands. Looking for information, she went to Harvard’s library. She did not find a specific book on the topic but she found books that were used as the foundation for her first book. Thus began a career spanning more than 30 years which has resulted in a dozen books, one of which is a massive four volume History of Women in the United States: A State by State Reference. This was published in 2004. Weatherford believes that all people should not be afraid to ask questions. “We have gotten to a society where people do not question. History is taught as a set of facts, but facts can be interpreted,” said Weatherford. “Women are always present in any situation and at any time. History should not be taught emphasizing men. Without women, history ends in a generation.” For more information on Weatherford, visit www.members.authorsguild.net/dweatherford.
Page 44
Volume 11, Issue 4
Brandon Edition
r Vets, o F c i n c i P nt For e v E y t i n Commu Families & Seniors &ore… M helle Colesanti, d by Mic m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e ll miche
Free Community Event For Seniors And Families
Outdoor Picnic For Veterans From Liberty Manor
Free Rider Fellowship Church in Plant City hosted an outdoor picnic at Medard Park. The veterans from Liberty Manor were invited and enjoyed a beautiful day of food, fellowship and canoeing. Liberty Manor for Veterans, Inc, is a non-profit organization committed to promoting the developmental and social needs of veterans who have served our country, fought for our country but fallen victim to homelessness. Visit www.LibertyManor.org, contact 4770203 or LibertyForVets@aol.com.
Celebrate Passover At Local Congregation
personal and kingdom Passovers are a progressive revelation of the Father’s love for His children. Call 654-2222 or email info@topraise.net. Beit Tehila is a congregation that teaches the Hebrew Roots of the Christian Faith and is located at 1705 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Visit www.topraise.net.
Join Beit Tehila Congregation as they celebrate the Feast of Passover on Saturday, April 23 at 11 a.m. This year’s theme is The Person Yeshua. Discover the redemptive plan of God through the four Passovers that are found in Scriptures. The family, congregational,
A free community event for seniors and families living and visiting in the area will take place on Wednesday, May 11 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon at 502 E. Sadie St. in Brandon. There will be local exhibitors and business providing material, information, knowledge and resources to our families. Speakers and give-aways will be throughout the event. Light refreshments will also be on site. Call 635-8179.
Commissioner Stacy White Hosts Community Office Hours in Bloomingdale
Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy R. White, District 4, will host community office hours on Friday, April 29 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, to hear from residents without them having to travel to County Center in downtown Tampa. Commissioner White and his staff welcome this opportunity to
Veterans from Liberty Manor were invited to enjoy a beautiful day at Medard Park.
meet residents and to discuss their thoughts and concerns on various projects and community issues taking place in Hillsborough County. No appointment is necessary to meet with Commissioner White and his staff. Residents are seen on a first-come, first-served basis.
Brandon Regional Hospital Seniors’ Fitness Classes
Brandon Regional Hospital announces that its H2U is sponsoring a seniors’ fitness class every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Oakfield Medical Plaza, ste. 226, on the campus of Brandon Regional Hospital at 119 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. Call 6531065 or visit BrandonRegionalHospital.com.
2016 Hurricane Expo At MOSI
Plan to attend the 2016 Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo which will take place at MOSI: Museum of Science & Industry at 4801 E. Fowler Ave. in Tampa on Saturday, May 14 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn what to do before, during and after
a storm. There will be kid-friendly entertainment, games and other activities while adults learn from speakers and vendors. Meet meteorologists from local news stations and hear from experts on how to protect you, your family and your home from the damage of an impending storm. After the Expo, stay and play at MOSI until 6 p.m. for a $5 admission.
Rosecastle at Delaney Creek Spring Craft Fair
Rosecastle at Delaney Creek Assisted Living and Memory Care community is having a Spring Craft Fair on Friday, May 6 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Over 40 local artists and vendors with jewelry, handmade quilts, designer handbags, homemade decorative items, edibles and more will be on display selling their wares. Attendees can enjoy a $3 lunch special and the proceeds go toward the American Cancer Society-Brandon Relay For Life. Rosecastle at Delaney Creek is located at 320 South Lakewood Dr. in Brandon. Call 655-8858
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April 2016
Brandon Edition
Page 45
A Country Cat House Provides Luxury Vacation Townhomes For Felines Only
By Nicole Heubusch
(Right) A Country Cat House owners Elieen and Scott Dalton, along with honorary CEO Papa.
With summer upon us, many people are beginning to plan family vacations. One of the most important parts of vacation planning include making sure pets are taken care of while away. For those families with cats, look no further than A Country Cat House. Located on 15 acres of property on Boyette Road, this five-paw vacation resort is the perfect place to leave your feline friend while away on a trip. A Country Cat House, run by Eileen Dalton and her husband Scott, has been open for business for 24 years, and received an Angie’s List Super Service Award in 2015. “Our dream with A Country Cat House was to open a loving place for kitties to enjoy their stay, without the hassles of barking dogs. We love cats, and in the past we’ve tried different ways to board our cat but found no success. There were always unreliable pet sitters or boarders
that only offered services for both cats and dogs. We wanted to open a place where cats could feel comfortable while their owners were away,” said Eileen. Cat owners are able to take a tour of the facility, where they can see the different cat houses and townhomes available. There are a few different views to choose from as well. Cat owners can pick a villa with a television, a villa with a fish tank filled with little fish for your cat to watch, or even a villa with a view of the grounds. There are single villas available, as well as three-story townhomes for those that have more than one cat and would like them to room together. Along with regular feeding and litter box changing, cats will enjoy daily one-on-one playtime with an employee of A Country Cat House, treats, brushing, grooming, haircuts, and will receive any medications they are currently on. The staff will also take pictures of the cats enjoying their vacation, and send them to their owners who are enjoying their own vacation. Rooms start at $16 a night for a Garden View villa. Luxury TV suites for one cat is $18 a day, Fish Aquarium villas are $18 a day, Townhouses for multi-cat families are $34 for two cats and two floors and are $45 for three cats and three floors. Long term discounts are available. There is a 10 percent discount for all military members. A Country Cat House is located at 15501 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Call 654-2287 or visit acountrycathousetampa.com.
It makes sense to prepare for all of life’s big events.
And just like planning for your retirement, pre-planning for your funeral and cemetery arrangements can also bring the peace of mind that comes with doing the right thing. Schedule your pre-planning appointment today. Whether you choose cremation or burial, we offer a range of products and services designed to accommodate all budgets.
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Brandon Edition
P R E SS
: Authorized
Reporter
Tamas
Mondovics tamas@ er.com ospreyobserv
crest Rd. 900 Lithia Pine FL 33511 Brandon,-241 8 657 bserver.com www.ospreyo
Volume 11, Issue 4
Sports Connection 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Aerial Athletes Take Skydiving To Extreme During Canopy Piloting Championships
By Tamas Mondovics
A skydiver comes into a distance landing during day three of the 2016 U.S. Parachute Association National Skydiving Championships of Canopy Piloting held this month.
Statistically, skydiving or parachuting may not be as dangerous as driving, yet the sport takes its rightful place on the list of extreme sports, boasting of talented athletes who will always find the way to push their abilities to the limit. Such is the case with the 55 top competitive aerial athletes from around the U.S. (31 in the open class and 24 in advanced) who took skydiving to the extreme as they competed in the 2016 U.S. Parachute Association (USPA) National Skydiving Championships of
Canopy Piloting held earlier this month at Skydive City, one of Florida’s premier skydiving centers in Zephyrhills. “Canopy piloting isn't what people really think of when they think about skydiving,” said USPA Sports Promotion Director, Nancy Koreen, during the three day competition. “Instead of slowing down, skydivers will attempt to gain speed as they descend and swoop through narrow slalom-like courses for hundreds of yards, just a few feet above the ground or water at speeds reaching
tance and accuracy one jump at a time.” 90-plus miles per hour.” The aerial competition will continue Koreen emphasized that the stakes were sky-high this year with a number of at the Florida Skydiving Center in Lake experienced competitors, including event Wales, May 28-June 2, with the 2016 USPA National Championships of leader, world and national champion, Canopy Formation and Style and Curtis Bartholomew from Florida, who Accuracy, which requires extreme preciwas joined by a list of great talents like sion as competitors attempt to land on a Nicholas Batch, Matt Shull, Ian Bobo dime-sized dot after falling 10,000 ft. and Thomas Dellibac, to name a few. The event will see 50 of the coun“These athletes have all come welltry’s best parachutists (and for the first equipped to battle it out for the limited slots on the U.S. Team that will compete time ever, 12 athletes from the Cuban national team) who will put their skydivat the World Championships this suming skills to the test. For more informamer in Canada,” Koreen said. As pro competitor, canopy instructor tion, visit www.uspa.org. and owner of Alter Ego Canopy Piloting, Bartholomew’s wife Jeannie, who has been skydiving for more than 10 years, spoke highly of the sport and the competition, while putting things into perspective for all adrenaline lovers. “I love the sport, always have,” Jeannie said. “Of course, it is not for everyone. Canopy Piloting particularly, adds the challenge of Canopy Piloting World Champion Curt Bartholomew and controlling speed, disfellow skydivers check their gear after a distance jump.
April 2016
Brandon Edition
Plant It Earth Lawn Tree & Shrub Care Offering 50 Percent Off First Application
By Catrina Hebert
return to a home to address a customer’s concerns with their lawns. “They are very responsive of taking care of my concerns,” Ray Riggsbee, Plant It Earth customer of five years said. “We want them Plant It Earth offers personalized lawn care, pest control and to be our partners; pressure washing. we see (the lawn) April showers bring May flowers. It is once a month they see it every day,” the time of year when the bugs are out Crews said. and the lawns need attention. Plant It Educating the customer on watering Earth is able to address all these spring the lawn is a part of the service Plant It welcoming activities. Earth provides. Maintaining a lawn in Florida does “They let us know if we are watering not go without hiring a professional. The enough or too little,” Gretchen Grdovic, hot days, insects and wild Bermuda grass Plant It Earth customer of four years said. are just a few of a homeowner’s troubles. “We guarantee our work as long as “I tell my guys they need to become the customer waters their lawns,” Crews a part of the family,” Troy Crews, presisaid. dent of company said. Crews mentioned Plant It Earth offers lawn fertilization, Plant it Earth strives to make a more pertree and shrub care, indoor and outdoor sonal experience with the homeowner. pest control including fleas, fire ant control The technicians leave letters to each and aeration services. Plant It Earth also customer to inform them of the service offers pressure washing services. they have provided. Customers have the Since 2003 Plant It Earth has be ability to contact their technicians if they making the lawns of Hillsborough, have any concerns by requesting the Sarasota, Pope, Pasco and Orange technician’s phone number. counties look beautiful. Mention this arti“If the customer needs to call and cle to receive 50 percent off your first chat, we don’t mind them calling and application. For Plant It Earth to become chatting about whatever,” Crews said. a part of your family, contact at 1-866It is no charge for a technician to 794-1077 or visit plantitearthflorida.com.
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Volume 11, Issue 4