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May 2016 C E L E B R A T I N G
1 5
Y E A R S
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Volume 11, Issue 5 Ph: 657-2418 P U B L I S H I N G
P O S I T I V E
C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
Fallen Deputies Honored During Sheriff’s Office Annual Memorial
Bet A Buck And Support Center Place At New Fundraising Extravaganza
Each year, ficed his Sheriff David own life by Gee and the taking the Hillsborough impact in County the crash. Sheriff’s Office While gathers for a reflecting solemn cereon the loss mony honoring of deputy local deputies Kotfila, who laid down Wilson their lives in drew attenthe line of duty. tion to the The day reason for reserved for the occathe emotionally sion. charged occa“It is sion saw a our charge large crowd of Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputies guard the memori- to honor al wreath presented by Sheriff David Gee during the family and and to annual Fallen Heroes Memorial held earlier this month. friends paying never forget their respects at the Sheriff’s Memorial the spirit of service and sacrifice made by and Fallen Heroes Wall outside the sherall these officers,” Wilson said. “Deputy iff's office headquarters in Ybor City held Kotfila will be in our hearts forever. His earlier this month. name is now etched in this wall forever so With the recent loss of Deputy John that his legacy and contribution to R. Kotfila, Jr., the Sheriff’s Office had to mankind will not be forgotten.” add another name to the list of deputies During the memorial service, Kotfila who were killed in the line of duty, raising Jr. was memorialized with a special plate the number to 16 since 1874, when on the fallen heroes wall. Deputy Richard Roach was shot and Gee was pleased to see so many in killed at his home in the suburbs of attendance and thanked the community Tampa. His murder has never been for their support of the Sheriff’s Office. solved. “This was a great ceremony as it The memorial service began with a pays tribute to a lot of heroes who speech from former FOX 13 anchor John deserve it,” Gee said. “This Wall of Wilson, followed by a special tribute Heroes Memorial is a sacred place for us. including a memorial wreath presented by We want to thank the community for their Sheriff Gee in honor of each of the 16 support. People need to know and underdeputies. stand the sacrifices of what these In March Deputy Kotfila was hit and deputies and law enforcement members killed by a drunk, wrong way driver on the are doing.” Selmon Expressway. A crash witness to For more information, visit the accident said that the deputy sacriwww.hcso.tampa.fl.us.
Rodriguez said of the new event, “At Center Place, we are always trying to think outside the box and have something different for our community to participate, have fun and raise money for the arts.” So gather up a group of your friends and get a table and join Center Place for a great night of fun. This is an event that is perfect for both women and men. There is limited seating, so pick up your tickets or make a reservation today. Funds raised at the event will help provide art programs, classes and special activities for both children and adults. Rodriguez said, “This Join Dawn Galia at Center Place’s new fundraiser Bet A is our 40th year of providBuck Charity Auction For The Arts on Friday, June 3. ing easy access to the arts Center Place will hold a fundraiser, in our community. Supporting Center Bet A Buck Charity Auction For The Arts, Place, which is a non-profit art center, on Friday, June 3 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at helps us to keep the cost of our proCenter Place located at 619 Vonderburg grams and classes at a price that is Dr. in Brandon. This is a fun and inexaffordable for everyone.” pensive way to support the arts and win For more information, visit www.cenprizes at the same time. Auction items terplacebrandon.org or call 685-8888. have been donated by local businesses. Lisa Rodriguez, director of marketing for Center Place, explained, “For a In This donation of $20, you get an auction padIssue dle, finger foods and complimentary wine and beer. Where else can you go NATIONAL BIKE MONTH.......................PG 8 on a Friday night and get all of this and the chance to win items like Busch CAR SHOW......................................... PG 12 Gardens passes, tickets to The Improv HONORARY MAYOR RACE...................PG 15 and Side Splitters, signed Tampa Bay Bucs football, golf foursomes, Sea World HOA HOT TOPICS................................ PG 17 passes, salon and restaurant gift cards CHALKLINES........................................ PG 31 and more?” Additional paddles can be rented for $5 each. SPORTS CONNECTION................. PGS 32‐33 When you arrive at the event, you ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT..................PG 34 “rent” your paddle. The paddle gives you the right to bid on items. When an item READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE comes up, you put $1, $2 or $3 in the www.ospreyobserver.com bucket. The amount you put in depends on the value of the auctioned item.
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Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 5
May 2016
Page 3
Brandon Edition
County Begins $1.2M Bryan/Brooker & Durant/Valrico Intersection Traffic Signal Projects
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By Tamas Mondovics
It is safe to upon complesay that when tion, both traffic it comes to trafsignal installafic improvetions and interments there is section no shortage of enhancements trouble spots will improve throughout safety and Hillsborough operations for County. Aside motorists and from some of pedestrians. the roadway The Durant improvements and Valrico and intersecintersection tion projects in project and the Valrico, such Bryan and as the muchBrooker needed culvert The installation of a new traffic signal at the intersec- Intersection tion of Bryan and Brooker Roads near Burns Middle project are both and drainage School in Brandon is scheduled to start this summer. upgrade just funded through south of Valrico Road and State Road the Public Works Capital Transportation 60 intersection, County officials have Program. All installations and improvescheduled two new intersection traffic ments at both sites are expected to be signal installation projects south of East completed in approximately eight Lumsden Road. months. To improve safety, motorists will Construction work for both projects soon see the installation of the first new is expected to take place on weekdays traffic signal at the intersection of Durant between 8 a.m.-5 p.m., but officials are and Valrico roads. The $590,000 project promising the work will generate only was scheduled to begin this month, standard construction noise. While temincluding construction of enhanced porary traffic lane closures may be necpedestrian features and drainage essary and traffic delays may occur, improvements at the intersection. access to businesses will be maintained The second new traffic signal and throughout construction.Drivers are cauimprovement project at the intersection tioned to observe all traffic control measof Bryan and Brooker roads near Burns ures for the safety of workers, pedestriMiddle School is to begin once the ans, and other motorists. For more school year ends. The project cost is information, visit www.Hillsborough $565,000. County.org/ CountyProjects, under the County officials are confident that Transportation Projects link.
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Volume 11, Issue 5
Brandon Edition
Kendredge Devon J. Mckinnon Age: 22 Height: 6ft. 1in. Weight:170 lbs. Hair: Black. Eyes: Brown. Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Riverview South Hillsborough.
By Tamas Mondovics
Crime Stoppers Offers Cash Reward For Information On Tampa Bay's First Friday's Fugitives Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay’s latest public alert began with two simple questions: Can you use some extra cash? Do you know where a wanted fugitive is hiding? The release of the list of five top fugitives at the start of the first Friday of each month by Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay Law Enforcement Coordinator Master Deputy Kelly McLaren is all about getting criminals off the street as soon as possible. “For one thing, we want to get the attention of the public, but most importantly its all about catching these dangerous fugitives,” McLaren said, adding, “Of course, people can always use some extra cash.” The fugitives that the agency is highlighting this month by asking the public's assistance in getting them into custody are just the five most recent or most wanted out of nearly 50 suspects currently posted on the agency’s website dating all the way back to 2013.
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Anetia Denise Austin Age: 42 Height: 5ft. 10in. Weight: 250 lbs. Hair: Black. Eyes: Brown. Pasco County Sheriff's Office Attempted Murder in the First Degree.
Daniel Lorenzo White Age: 35. Height: 6ft. 2in. Weight: 170 lbs. Hair: Black. Eyes: Brown Internal Revenue Service & Florida Department of Corrections. Thirty-nine counts of False Claims (Income Tax Fraud), Aggravated Identity Theft, Wire Fraud & Violation of Probation, Dealing in Stolen Property and Violation of Probation, False Information to Pawnbroker.
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Attend Program To Avoid Being A Victim, Coin Club Seeks New Members & More… Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com
Page 5
Brandon Edition
its charter from Dr.
Maureen McKenna and District 5 Chair Mary Freeman in April at the DWCF Board meeting in Learn how to avoid being a victim Ocala. On hand to accept the when you attend Scams, Schemes and charter were Gwen Szafranski Scoundrels held on Tuesday, June and Joan Gatewood, president 14 from 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. at The Bridges and treasurer, respectively, of Assisted Living Community. Debbie Photo courtesy George Veazey, III the new club. Brown, investigator for the Hillsborough The EHCB will perform a patriotic concert on Thursday, June 23 at 7 p.m. in New Hope United Since its inception in County Consumer Protection Agency, will Methodist Church’s Logan Hall. November 2015, the local present the latest information on recent Brandon Elks Donate Van To Liberty 5192 or email organization has grown to 24 members scams, home solicitations, hiring a conBrandonCoinClub@yahoo.com. Manor Veterans has provided informative programs and tractor, tax return fraud, data breaches on campaign strategies for 2016, voters’ Liberty Manor for Veterans was the and ID theft. Education and information is Eastern Hillsborough Community rights issues, and voter registration trainbenefactor of a beautiful 15-seat passenconsidered the first line of defense in the Presents Patriotic Band Concert Band ing. Most recently, members welcomed van by members of Brandon Elks ger battle to protect consumers from victimThe Eastern Hillsborough Eleanor Lodge #2383. The van will be used at the ization. In Community Band (EHCB) is celebrating Saunders, execElks convention and to transport the vetaddition to our country’s birthday with its seventh utive director of erans that reside at Liberty Manor to all a power patriotic concert Thursday, June annual ECHO, who disevents they are invited to, in addition the packed 23 at 7 p.m., at the New Hope United cussed the many to the monthly dinner hosted by Brandon program, Church of Brandon (formerly Methodist outreach proElks on the first Wednesday of each she will known as First United Methodist Church ECHO of grams month. provide of Brandon). The band’s yearly patriotic Brandon offers to numerous concert series is the band’s most popular surrounding Military Veterans Receive SingleU.S. take-home series and attracts large crowds. The communities. Busch Gardens Admission Day materials group performs marches and patriotic The club Discount to help Executive Director of ECHO Eleanor Saunders receives meets from 6Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is honor- music during the performance, and veteryou avoid donations from members of the Democratic Women's ans from all services will be 7:30 p.m. the ing U.S. veterans with 50 percent off up losing your Club of SE Hillsborough at the April meeting. recognized. Almost a full quarter of the first Thursday of to six single-day admission tickets to the hard band is comprised of veterans. the month at the Bloomingdale Regional park. Qualified veterans eligible for the earned money to these schemes. The year, the band will perform This Library at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in offer include active, retired, honorablyBridges is located at 11350 Bloomingdale music by Aaron Copland and John Philip and welcomes other like-minded Valrico, separated officers and enlisted personnel Ave. in Riverview and is free to attend Sousa. The concert will be in the chapel women in Southeast Hillsborough County of the U.S. military. Eligible veterans and includes lunch. Space is limited. Call (Logan Hall), of New Hope United to join the group. Scheduled for should visit buschgardenstampa.com for Janet Noah at 413-8900 to reserve a Church, located at 115 N. Methodist the Thursday, June 2 meeting are Andrew more information and to register, using seat. Knights Ave. in Brandon. The event is a Warren, running for state attorney, and the ID.me verification system. Tickets $5 donation at the door. Reservations are Rena Upshaw-Frazier and Naze must be purchased and used by May 31. Democratic Women's Club Hosts not required. Sahebzamani, both vying to be the Restrictions apply. State President EHCB is comprised of volunteers of Democratic candidate for state represenThe Democratic Women’s Club of all ages and from all walks of life. The tative from District 59. Call 654-7464. Brandon Coin Club Seeks New SE Hillsborough County recently received band, which formed seven years ago, Members performs throughout the Tampa Bay The Brandon Coin Club meets the area. Ken Watts, principal conductor, is third Tuesday of each month at St. an accomplished musician with more Andrews Church, located at 3315 Bryan than 40 years of experience as a conducRd. in Brandon. New members are weltor and performer. Anne Marie Dresser, come. The next meeting will be held on an accomplished trombone player, is the Tuesday, June 21. Both youth (ages 6 band’s assistant conductor. and up) and adults are welcome. There is Call 569-1771, an educational program during each email info@ehcb.org or meeting with youth and adult auctions visit www.ehcb.org. held at the end of the night. Call 719-
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Page 6
Volume 11, Issue 5
Brandon Edition
BOCC Passes Mobility Fee Ordinance, Shuts Donate Your Old Phone To Help A Soldier By Renee Hobbs Door On Half-Cent Transportation Sales Tax By Tamas Mondovics
Sun City resident and supporter of the new fee, Jim Duffy had a chance to address the board first. “My greatest fear is that if you fail to come to an agreement, nothing will be done to improve our traffic and transportation issues,” he said. The board set a schedule to conduct an annual review of the level of fees for the first five years. After a motion by Commissioner Members of the Hillsborough Board of County Commission listen to comments from residents Stacy White, the board also set a about a proposed new mobility fees ordinance dursingle schedule on the phasing of ing a public hearing at East Bay High School. the fees, starting at 40 percent and Members of the Hillsborough Board increasing gradually over the five-year of County Commission faced residents period. during two pubic hearings last month to “The money collected from the mobildecide on the county’s transportation ity fees might be lower than the current future. The two issues on the table includ- impact fee program,” White said adding, ed whether to implement a new mobility “We must do a better job. That is why I fees ordinance, charging developers to am supporting the mobility fees.” pay more of the impact or transportation Drilling County Administrator Mike costs stemming from residential and com- Merrill, White, and Commissioner Kevin mercial projects, followed by what was a Beckner made sure that under the ordimore controversial decision: whether to nance the fee money will be spent in the put a half-cent sales tax to fund decades district from which it is collected. of transportation improvements on the With the passing of the new fees November ballot. structure, Duffy got half of his wish as the The first of the two hearings was held county commission rejected the proposed at East Bay High School, resulting in the 30-year, half-cent sales tax, refusing to BOCC’s unanimous vote on passing a put it on the November ballot and letting new mobility fees ordinance, which will voters decide. The decision to shut down impose a one-time capital charge on the tax hike came at the end of a four developers based on land use and size. hour debate thanks to four “no” votes by The new fee structure will replace the cur- Commissioners White, Murman, Crist, rent impact fee schedule, which was last and Higginbotham to three “yes” votes by updated in 1989. The fees differ from Commissioners Hagan, Miller, and impact fees since they can be applied to Beckner. For more information, visit cover several modes of transportation. www.hillsboroughcounty.org.
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erans transition back into civilian life. Taylor said the program began with two kids concerned about a news story that stated a soldier owed an $8,000 phone bill. CPFS was founded in 2004 by Robbie and Brittany Bergquist, who were 12 and 13 at the time. One local collection site is the Live and Learn Compound Pharmacy at 13224 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Pharmacist Leott Wydetic said she discovered this organization a few years ago when she realized she had a drawer full of old phones and she wanted to do something worthwhile with them. Wydetic said she researched CPFS and decided she wanted to be a part of this endeavor and has been involved ever since. The pharmacist went on to say that as of now she has over 30 lbs. of phones to ship to CPFS. Live and Learn Compound Pharmacy in “People bring them in by the bagRiverview is a collection site for Cell Phones For Soldiers. fuls,” she laughed. Contemplating what you should do In 2015 CPFS helped troops stay in with your old cell phone? You can now touch with family and friends who were donate it and help our troops. Cell deployed in more than 25 countries. Also Phones For Soldiers (CPFS) is a national that year, CPFS distributed over 76,000 nonprofit organization helping troops and international calling cards, which equaled veterans with free communication servicmore than 4.6 million minutes of talk time. es and emergency funds. Chief Operating The group was also able to help over Officer Charles Taylor said, “We are 1,300 veterans with emergency aid in always in need of smart phones, which 2015. CPFS shipped about 1,500 calling we repurpose or recycle. The proceeds cards a week last year. More than 8,300 from that allow us to purchase phone were sent to soldiers in Afghanistan, the cards.” most of any country. Service members in There are two programs within Iraq received the second highest number, CPFS. Minutes That Matter is to help 2,300. service people call home for free. The For more information about this proother program is Helping Heroes Home. It gram, visit cellphonesforsoldiers.com or is one time emergency grants to help vet- liveandlearnpharmacy.com.
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Brandon Edition
Local Special Needs Students Connect With Nature at Medard Park A small group of students from Pepin Academies got a chance to get up close and personal with nature earlier this month during a morning trip to Medard Park. Pepin Academies are tuition-free charter schools committed to creating professional learning communities through practices and programs that meet the needs of students with learning disabilities. The field trip, which involved learning about the park, its 700-acre reservoir, as well as many of the creatures that the park is known for in and out of the water, was possible thanks to the generous and giving A group of special needs students from Pepin spirit of Pepin Academies Academies are joined by local volunteers during a recent field trip at Medard Park.The event allowed and Hillsborough County’s the students to experience nature and learn about 4H Club Tech Wizard menthemselves, their interests, and the great outdoors. tor program volunteer, Paula Retter, who also own fishing vessels for the group to works for the Rotary’s Camp Florida in take voyages. Brandon. “The kids were awesome,” “We can teach the students about all Gore said. “They really got involved, of this in the classroom, but events like asked a lot of questions and were these where they can experience nature just so excited about being on the first hand is what seals the deal as well water that it all made it worthwhile. I as helps them realize what they are inter- would definitely come out again and ested in doing perhaps for life,” Retter offer my boat.” said. With a baby alligator and a talking To make the day extra special for the crow in his arsenal of creatures to show students, Retter was joined by local fishand tell, Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) ermen, Captains Woody Gore and Eddie Officer, Greg Patterson was also on hand Caldwell, both of whom have bought their to teach these kids about fishing and
wildlife. “The kids really loved it,” Patterson said, after the event adding, “The kids always want to touch. For these groups of special needs kids it was a great way to connect to nature, which was clearly written on their faces. I am sure this will stay with them for a long time.” Edward
Medard Park is a popular recreation area, hosting 500,000 visitors annually, with its reservoir being the main attraction. Aside from its spacious boating dock, a boardwalk fishing pier leads to an observation
By Tamas Mondovics
tower across the reservoir. Recreational opportunities include bicycling, incline skating, camping, fishing and hiking to name a few. Of course for the small group of Pepin students spending a couple of hours at the park under Retter’s supervision and the support of the members of the community is a whole new experience. “Today these students learned a bit more about life, hands on skills not to mention team work,” said Retter, whose 18-year-old daughter, Carissa is diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome. Proving her moms point, Carissa was happy to share her take on the field trip, especially her favorite part of seeing the alligators and being out on the water with Captain Gore. “I wasn't scared,” she said excitedly. “I loved it and I would like to do it again.” Today, Pepin Academies has grown to serve over 850 students with a main campus in Tampa, a campus in Riverview and its latest addition in New Port Richey. For more information about Pepin Academies, visit www.pepinacademies.com. For more info about The Rotary’s Camp of Florida in Brandon, visit www.rotaryscampflorida.com.
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Page 8
Brandon Edition
Communities Celebrate National Bike Month
By Tamas Mondovics
cerns over distracted drivers (75 percent), drivers not seeing bikers (72 percent) and being cut off by a driver (64 percent) made the top of the list. “Traveling on the road requires care and courtesy—whether you are operating a car or a bicycle,” said Amy Stracke, executive director of the ACG Traffic Safety Foundation. “Remember, we all have places to go. Let’s share the road so we can all get there safely.” The survey also showed that many riders feel they are not respected by motorists and must fight for their place David Wienrich, 51, of Valrico pauses for photo after he pumped up the tires on his tri- on the road. cycle at Wawa. David Wienrich, 51, of Valrico who May is designated as National Bike has made bicycling his main mode of Month, prompting many bicyclists from transportation around the community for coast to coast to celebrate by means of the past 19 years has been hit a number claiming their rightful place on the roadof times and said that as driver distracways. tions have increased over the years so Established in 1956, National Bike did his fear of venturing out on his bicycle. Month is a chance to showcase the many “People are just not paying attention. benefits of bicycling and encourage more It’s outright scary. I see drivers on the folks to give biking a try. phone, texting, not to mention the While bicycles are a legitimate form increased traffic throughout our communiof transportation with laws and regulaty,” he said. tions established for their use, most riders Wienrich emphasized the need for reportedly fear being hit by vehicles sharsidewalks or bike lanes, which he said he ing the roadways dampening the occahimself would certainly make use of to sion’s festive spirit. eliminate some of his fear while riding Every year, hundreds of cyclists are around in heavy traffic. killed and tens of thousands more are As a suggestion, which is shared by injured in preventable crashes. In a recent most riders, Wienrich said, “Both drivers AAA Consumer Pulse survey conducted and bikers need to pay more attention.” online among Florida residents from The month of May will come and go, January 29, 2016 to February 21, 2016, but AAA Auto Club Group and its Auto the majority (78 percent), of Florida bicyClub Group Traffic Safety Foundation clists who ride on the road indicated that hopes that everyone on the road makes being hit by a vehicle was their number safety a top priority – not just in May, but one concern. throughout the year. Visit www.AAA.com/ The report also indicated that confoundation for more information.
Volume 11, Issue 5
May 2016
Page 9
Brandon Edition
Florida Medical Clinic Makes Home In Former Borders Location
By Sharon Still
cology and dermatology services and ongoing management of chronic conditions such as diabetes and osteoporosis. While specializing in a comprehensive range of healthcare services representing 35 primary care and specialty disciplines, Florida Medical Clinic’s clinically integrated network streamlines all aspects of healthcare. Owned by 300 of the area’s Florida Medical Clinic recently expanded its services in leading doctors, there are 51 the Brandon area with a new multi-specialty campus locations that serve more than located in front of Westfield Brandon Mall. 3,000 patients per day from Following its vision “to be the best infants to seniors. choice for healthcare in our community,” In south Hillsborough, in addition to Florida Medical Clinic recently opened a the new multi-specialty campus located at new 24,000-sq.-ft multi-specialty campus 2020 Town Center Blvd., Florida Medical in the building that used to house Clinic has a behavioral health facility on Border’s bookstore in Brandon. Oakfield Drive in Brandon and two loca“The new facility will provide many tions in Riverview, on U.S. Hwy. 301 and patient services including diagnostic lab in Winthrop. and radiology services. Our specialties “In order to make things easier for include family medicine, allergy, asthma our patients and doctors, we offer online and immunology, cardiology, gastroenappointment requests 24 hours a day, terology, interventional pain management, seven days a week; as well as access to orthopaedics, otolaryngology and pulour secure patient portal and electronic monology and sleep disorders and urolohealth records,” said Eramo. gy,” said Florida Medical Clinic’s Office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Administrative/Marketing Assistant Monday through Friday for most areas of Heather Eramo. practice while Family Medicine and Auto While preventative care to help keep Accident Care office hours are 7 a.m.-7 its patients healthy is key, primary care p.m. Monday through Friday and services include physical exams, urgent Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. New patients are care appointments for non-life-threatening being accepted. Visit www.floridamedicalinjuries and illnesses, cancer screenings, clinic.com for more information or to minor surgical procedures, routine gynerequest an appointment.
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Page 10
Volume 11, Issue 5
Brandon Edition
Hollywood Comics, Collectibles Kick Starts Free Comic Book Day
Our Personal Service & Attention to All Our Customers for 61 years
By Andria Barrios
On the first also owns a store in Saturday in May, Tampa called Hollywood Comics & Demolition Comics. Collectibles, which “That shop is opened in March more traditional, but inside Westfield this one is the evoluBrandon Mall, recently tion of the comic held its own Free shop; the next step. Comic Book Day. It focuses more on Over 4,000 film. It’s a one stop comics and bookmarks shop with T-shirts were given away as and hats designed well as superhero exclusively by comic themed cookies and artists, coscupcakes. Bob Layton, tumes and co-writer for Iron Man accessories, as comics, even attended well as new A costumed father and and held a story time issues and son pose in front of the for children. Hourly raf- store on Free Comic Book Day at Hollywood back issues,” he fles and 20 percent off Comics & Collectibles located in the Westfield said. Brandon Mall. the entire store also “It’s the right made the event a huge hit. time for a shop like this,” he said, pointing Owner William Insignares hosted out that eight movies are coming out this Free Comic Book Day in order to proyear that concern comics. Yet the store mote and encourage literacy and art also brings customers back to their childthrough the comic medium. hood with its vintage items and nostalgia. “Some kids who got comic books “It’s very family oriented. There’s nothing had never had one before. It was such a in here that wouldn’t be for a child’s joy to be able to see them hold one for eyes,” he said. the first time,” he said. Insignares plans to expand the cosPerhaps the most exciting part of the tume section of his shop by Halloween, event was the result of it. When Honorary with authentic outfits and accessories for Mayor of Brandon Michelle Hernandez kids and adults. The store’s next event, a heard about the event, she signed an offi- Harlequin and Joker costume contest, will cial petition making May 7 Annual Free coincide with the Suicide Squad film Comic Book Day. Over 2,300 comic book debuting this August. shops across the world will participate in Hollywood Comics & Collectibles is giving away free comics annually in order located at 670 Brandon Town Center. For to celebrate the world of comics. more information, visit them on Facebook Insignares, a 24 year comic veteran, or call 409-2022.
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Page 11
Brandon Edition
Here Comes MILO, The Mobile Literacy Bus By Kathy L. Collins
academic success. However, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that nearly 25 percent of children in Hillsborough County live in poverty. This means that the children who need books the most may not have regular access to them, and as a result may struggle on their path toward school readiness. The MILO initiative will consist MILO is a mobile interactive literacy bus that will of monthly Saturday programs to come to public libraries and Children’s Board Family Resource Centers throughout Hillsborough be held at community locations throughout Hillsborough County, County. targeting rural and urban neighborEarlier this month, the Children’s hoods that have been designated as at Board of Hillsborough County, Tamparisk or underserved. The program focuses Hillsborough County Public Library, the on children ages three to eight years old Junior League of Tampa and WEDU and their caregivers. PBS, unveiled the Mobile Interactive Locally, MILO will be at the SeffnerLiteracy Opportunity known as MILO. Mango Library on Saturday, June 4 from This collaborative effort was made possi10 a.m.-1 p.m. It will be at the ble thanks to the influential work of SouthShore Regional Library in Ruskin Hillsborough County Commissioner, on Saturday, July 16 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sandra Murman. It is set to be in Brandon at the Children’s MILO is a mobile interactive literacy Board Family Resource Center on bus that will encourage family reading, Kingsway Rd. on Saturday, October 1 and lead to higher educational success from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. for children. Murman said, “MILO is just MILO events will be staffed by volunone more example of how Hillsborough teers from the Junior League of Tampa. County values children, education and They will offer engaging interactive literacommunity. We are providing more than cy stations. Children can select a book to literacy; We are providing hope to the take home, and families will have the children in our county.” opportunity to get a free Hillsborough Kelley Parris, executive director of County Public Library card. the Children’s Board explained, “The goal In addition to books, each MILO of MILO is to give all children, regardless event will feature a character from WEDU of where they live within Hillsborough PBS shows and the children can partake County, access to books.” According to in arts and crafts. For more information the Children’s Board, studies have shown on MILO and to get a complete schedule that the presence of books in the home is for 2016-2017, contact Lorie Tonti at 273one of the greatest influences on a child’s 3638.
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Page 12
Brandon Edition
Classic Car Show, Crafts Coming To Bay Life Church
By Libby Hopkins
Florida.” The car show and craft fair will feature more than 400 show cars, trucks and custom cars. The group Legacy will provide live music in addition to the Bay Life DJ playing classic rock, county and oldies. Crafts will be on display for sale from many local crafters and artisans. There will be a special On Saturday, May 28, Bay Life Church in Brandon will host its annual car show and craft fair on the opening celebration performed by church grounds. the Color Guard and National There is something about sitting Anthem to honor our country. The behind the wheel of an exotic sports car church’s Mission Café will be providing or a classic muscle car that makes your the food at the car show and craft fair. All adrenaline race. Car shows are also a the proceeds raised at the car show and great way to bring the community togethcraft fair will go to support the church’s er for a good cause. On Saturday, May missions. 28, Bay Life Church in Brandon will host “Bay Life Church Missions and its annual car show and craft fair on the Student Ministries send several trips church grounds from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. throughout the U.S. and internationally to “The Bay Life car show originally support our mission partners,” Stough began as a community outreach to do said. “Every penny raised from food and something fun and involve our local car beverage sales, raffles and donations aficionados,” said Bay Life Church’s goes to support Bay Life Global Communications Director, Stephen Missions.” Stough. “Steve Hardy, the long time Bay Stough hopes the car show and craft Life maintenance supervisor, took the inifair will be a fun filled day for everyone tiative to organize our first event.” Over who attends. “It’s amazing, each year we the years, other Bay Life members got see three or four generations enjoy the involved and the event grew into a day where everyone in the family has fundraiser for the church’s missions. something for them,” Stough said. “Our “Robert De’Angelo, who has been hope remains that our community grows our lead volunteer since the very beginstronger, that lifelong friendships are ning, is the reason our car show and craft forged, and that our community sees that fair is one of the largest in the state,” Bay Life is here to support them on their Stough said. “Robert and his volunteer journey.” team attend car shows and carry the Visit www.baylife.org. Bay Life news of Bay Life all around the state of Church is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd.
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Volume 11, Issue 5
May 2016
Page 13
Brandon Edition
Hillsborough Superintendent Gives Seffner Chamber View Into District’s Five Year Plan By Kathy L. Collins
The Greater district has Seffner Area established a Chamber of five year Commerce gathplan, the first ered at Armwood for the High School in school disSeffner earlier this trict. In this month for a meetplan, stuing with dents are the Superintendent of most imporHillsborough tant. County Schools “We as the guest have flipped Photo courtesy Missy Duncan, Duncan Photography speaker for the Armwood High School Principal, Dr. Joseph Castelli the organiza(left) welcomed Jeff Eakins, superintendent of day. With 212,000 tional chart students and over Hillsborough County Public Schools (right) to the May and put the meeting of the Seffner Chamber of Commerce. 25,000 employstudents and ees, Hillsborough is the eighth largest families that we serve at the top. Parents school district in the nation. made a choice to trust us, and we must As host for the event, Armwood High take this seriously,” said Eakins. “I have School was on display. A lunch was probeen superintendent for 11 months. It has vided by the students in Armwood’s been everything I expected and nothing I Culinary Arts program and each table expected.” was hosted by Armwood students. The new five year plan has four Armwood, like the school district, is goals. The first is to increase graduation very much looking toward the future. In rates. The second is to communicate with addition to their Collegiate Academy, stakeholders. The third is to build strong which not only prepares students for colculture and relationships. The fourth is lege and even allows them to graduate foundation of financial stewardship. with an Associate Degree, Armwood Hillsborough County Public Schools embraces the career side of education want to increase the graduation rate from with multiple programs that prepares stu73.5 percent to 90 percent by the year dents for life after high school. 2020. One way to increase the graduaAccording to Eakins, the school distion rate, according to Eakins, is to look at trict is bringing clarity to its vision and mis- the skills gap in the community and prosion. The vision is preparing students for vide programs that will help students to life, and the mission is to provide an edube successful once they leave high cation and the support that enables each school. To read the full plan, visit student to excel as a successful and www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/doc/ strategicplan or responsible citizen. In addition, the school seffnerchamber.com.
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Page 14
Volume 11, Issue 5
Brandon Edition
Alzheimer’s Seminary, 30 Reunion Info For Brandon And Armwood High Schools & More…
This will take place on Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com Wednesday, June 22 from 9 Gigi's Sewing Summer Camp a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free for careDoes your child need a fun, cregivers. Call 677-1400 or visit ative and affordable summer activity? www.regonline.com/suncity2016. Gigi's Sewing Summer Camp is open for registration for ages 7-16. 2016 USTA Florida Adult 7.0 Admission includes all sewing projects Women - 65 & Over Tennis Team such as the material you need to make The Brandon 7.0 Women's 65 & them, teachers, snacks, drinks, and Over USTA Florida Tennis Team from fellowship with friends. Buckhorn Springs Tennis Club in Razzle Dazzle Your Doll : Monday- Valrico were finalists in the Florida Friday, June 20-24 from 9:30 a.m.Sectionals. The team qualified by win12:30 p.m.; ages 7-12. ning the Hillsborough Region league. Fun Things For My Room : Each team from the Brandon/Valrico Monday-Friday, June 27- July 1 from area lost their matches in a third set 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; ages 8-16. tiebreaker matches. The team ended Project Runway For The their season as second in the USTA Fashionista: Monday-Friday, July 11Florida competition. 15 from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; ages 10-16. Local School Shines At National Project Runway For the Young History Bee Fashionista : Monday-Friday July 18The National History Bee Regional 22 from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for ages Finals were held in Orlando and 7-10. Immanuel Lutheran School had five Summer Travels: Monday-Friday, students at the Regional July 25-29 from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Finals. Congratulations to eighth for ages 8-16. graders Jakob Brown and Russell Call 661-9000 or visit www.gigisAnderson, and to seventh graders fabricshop.com. Register at Gigi's John Blomquist, and Andrew Cole, and Fabric Shop, located at 706 W. Fabian Fernandez for making it to the Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Regional Finals. Jakob Brown, Fabian
Alzheimer’s & Dementia Seminar With Teepa Snow
Nationally renowned dementia expert Teepa Snow is coming to Kings Point Veterans Theater, 1900 Club House Dr. in Sun City Center to present a special Alzheimer’s and dementia seminar for health care professionals, caregivers, and senior advocates.
Fernandez and John Blomquist have qualified for the National Finals that will be held in Chicago this June. A special congratulation goes to John Blomquist, who placed second in the seventh grade division. Email ltalbott@ilsbrandon.com.
Brandon, Armwood High School Classes Of 1986 To Share 30th
7.0 Women's 65 & Over USTA Florida Tennis Team players Barbara Jones, Sharon Bortner, Betsy Assing, Sandy Pike, Judy Whittier, Marilynn Madson (Captain) and Rosemary Savill.
Reunion Celebration
During the 1983-1984 school year, Brandon High School was on double session with over 1,200 students enrolled; sophomores had classes in the afternoon while juniors and seniors had classes in the morning. The following school year, Armwood High School opened its doors and many of the Brandon High School sophomores, along with some from Eastlake High School, transferred to Armwood as incoming juniors. Seniors were not required to transfer and there was no senior class that first year. They will all gather this summer for a shared 30th Reunion to reconnect with friends who went to elementary through high school together before there was more than one high school in Brandon. Students, teachers and staff are wel-
come. The reunion will be held on Saturday, July 23 at Stone Chef in Ybor City. The cost is $125 per person and includes a full buffet, open bar and entertainment. A committee of about ten Brandon and Armwood graduates has been working to plan a fun night for everyone. Visit www.BrandonArmwoodReunion.com or contact Amy Jennings Connors at 727-647-7585.
Second Children’s Book By Local Author Now Available On Amazon
Henrietta Moricz just released her second children’s book, Chester and his friend. Moricz is a great-grandmother and resides at Hawthorne Village in Brandon. This book and her first book, Skippy, are available on Amazon.
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Page 15
Brandon Edition
Local Charities To Benefit From Upcoming 2016 Brandon Mayor’s Race Events
By Michelle Colesanti
email cburgess@mybsac.org. The Community Roundtable of Brandon has held its annual George Shea Honorary Mayor’s race since 1959. That first year, Nat Storms Shea is a Realtor with took the top honor after raising Signature Realty. His charities $500. This year three local geninclude the Newsome Band tlemen contenders are running Boosters, Campo YMCA and for the coveted title and hope to Seeds of Hope. raise a lot of money to benefit “My goals as Honorary their chosen local charities. Mayor are to raise as much According to Community money as possible for my chariRoundtable President Janine ties. Everyone can make a difNickerson, “Candidates begin ference by the selfless act of givraising money on June 1 and ing. I want to give amazing stop at 8 a.m. on July 4. The opportunities to individuals who funds are tallied and the new don’t have all the resources to mayor is announced. A convert(From left) Craig Beckinger, Chuck Burgess and George Shea are running for 2016 Brandon Honorary Mayor. obtain them on their own,” Shea ible waits to transport the new said. Bill Carey Brandon Boys and Girls Club. is the beginning of change.” mayor through the Fourth of July Shea’s Race Kick-Off is planned for According to Burgess, “My main His upcoming events include a Parade.” Friday, June 3 at a location to be detergoals are to bring more awareness, expo- mined. He will have plenty of choice Kickoff Party on Wednesday, June 1; Last year, Michelle Hernandez set a sure and resources to the missions and Hawaiian Luau on Saturday, June 4; new record for females raising over events through the month of June. Events causes of my selected charities. Also, I Drag Queen Bingo, Thursday, June 9; $55,500 for local non-profits. The 2016 include Wine Tasting Event, Thursday, want to connect with other people and ABC Event Planning Ribbon Cutting on Brandon Mayor's Race will be a contest June 9; Softball Tournament, Saturday, organizations to better learn their needs Thursday, June 16; Purse Bash on among Craig Beckinger, Chuck Burgess, June 11; Coach Bingo, Tuesday, June 14 and challenges while always striving to Tuesday, June 21; Bunco at The Bridges and George Shea. The candidates look at RiverHills; Summer Nights Family make Brandon an even better communion Thursday, June 23; Clay Shoot on forward to a lot of community support at Event at Campo Family YMCA, Saturday, ty.” Saturday, June 25; Bridal Show on all of their events. June 25; Bunco Night, Thursday, June His upcoming events include a Wine Sunday, June 26 and Pinot’s Pallette on 30, and a Golf Tournament at RiverHills, & Cheese Soiree, Friday, June 3; a Monday, June 27. Craig Beckinger Friday, July 1. Community Kick Ball Tournament on For more information, visit Beckinger, founder of An ABC Event, For more information on his events, Saturday, June 4; Family Laser Tag, Craig For Honorary Mayor of Brandon on Inc., is campaigning for The Outreach visit George Shea for Honorary Sunday, June 5; Honorary Mayor Movie Facebook or email Clinic, ECHO of Brandon and the Trey Mayor of Brandon on Facebook, Night; Clay Shoot, Saturday, June 11; cab92807@gmail.com. Curry Foundation. www.GeorgeSheaforMayor.com or email Underground Dance Party, Friday, June “My goal is to help bring dreams to georgesheateam@hotmail.com. Chuck Burgess 17; Golf Tournament, Saturday, June 18, life one donation at a time. I have selectThe Community Roundtable will and a Run/Barbecue/Concert, Saturday, Burgess is the executive director at ed these non profits, which cover a wide bring awareness to the race at an addiJune 25. Brandon Sports & Aquatics Center variety of needy people in the Greater tional After Hours event with the Brandon For more information on Burgess’ (BSAC) in Brandon. He is campaigning to Brandon Community. My dream is to Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, upcoming events, visit his raise funds for BSAC, the Brandon have all of the people in Brandon that May 26 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Visit Burgess4Brandon Facebook page or need help to be able to receive help. This Rotary Club Charity Fund and also for the www.thecommunityroundtable.org.
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Page 16
Volume 11, Issue 5
Brandon Edition
Memorial Day Event At Veteran’s Park, Health & Fitness Month For Seniors & More… Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com
Hillsborough County To Remember The Fallen On Memorial Day At Veterans Memorial Park
Tampa. Contact 2463170.
view activity calendars and additional center information, or call Aging Services at 272-5250. National Senior Health & Fitness Day, scheduled this year on Wednesday, May 25, is the largest national health event for older adults. Upcoming activities taking place in May at the Brandon Senior Center, 612 N. Parsons Ave.: May 25 at 1 p.m. - National Senior Health & Fitness Day: Commitment to Better Health; activities
2016 USTA Florida Adult Men 8.0 65 & Over Team
On Sunday, May 29 at 11 a.m., the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County, Inc. will conduct a Memorial Day ceremony to honor the United States military service men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice in fighting all the wars and conflicts throughout the world. The theme for this event is Never Forget, Ever Honor. The public is invited to attend. Colors will be presented by the 6th Air Mobility Wing, MacDill AFB Honor Guard, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance by America’s children. The Invocation and Benediction will be led by Veterans Council Chaplain Mary Ellen Harlan. Charles Haugabrooks, in his 19th year of performance, will sing a repertoire of patriotic songs. The guest speaker will be Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner; the keynote speaker is scheduled to be Scott V. DeThomas, Colonel, USAF, Retired and Senior Vice President, GTE Financial. The Scottish American Military Society will conduct the POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony, followed by a piper playing Amazing Grace. A rifle salute and TAPS by the Marine Corps League, Riverview Detachment 1226, will follow to pay tribute to the fallen. Closing remarks will be made by Hillsborough County Consumer & Veterans Services Director Frank Strom. Veterans Memorial Park & RADM LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum is located at 3602 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. in
The Brandon tennis team from Buckhorn Springs were finalists in the event and represented Hillsborough County in the 2016 Florida 65 & Over
The Brandon tennis team from Buckhorn Springs Gene Pike, Terry Tetzlaff, Jay BortnerCaptain, and Albert Alhadeff as well as Jeff Wong, Marshall Veatch, Ralph Attebery Lennen, Fred Farzanegan and John Green.
USTA Championship. The team ended its season as the second place team in the USTA Florida Sectionals. Each team from Brandon lost the final round in third set tie breakers.
Health, Fitness At Hillsborough County Senior Centers
Hillsborough County Aging Services offers a variety of activities for adults age 50 and over. Visit HillsboroughCounty.org/Aging to
and refreshments. May 26 at 1 p.m. - What are Your Summer Plans? May 27 at 11:30 a.m. Memorial Day Celebration: Picnic in the Park. Registration required. Call 6358066.
Avoid Insurance Fraud during National Financial Literacy Month Hillsborough County Consumer Protection wants you to be informed
about the different types of insurance fraud. Here are tips to help keep you safe: Never provide your personal information to unsolicited callers or via email, even if they mention prosecution; these are scams. Contact the company directly if you receive a message from them requesting information. Do not respond to solicitations demanding payment or suggesting that you should pay for coverage that you already have. Contact your insurance company if this occurs, or check with the Florida Department of Financial Services for more information. Protect your insurance cards. This applies to all insurance, but medical identity theft is one of the top issues on the rise. Be a smart shopper; do your homework to be certain that companies, including insurance companies, are legitimate before doing business with them. To check into insurance companies in Florida, visit www.myfloridacfo.com and type “insurance” in the search function. Report potential fraud to the Florida Department of Insurance Fraud at (877) 693-5236 or at apps8.fldfs.com/first/. For more information, contact Hillsborough County Consumer Protection at 903-3430, or review information provided by the Department of Financial Services at www.myfloridacfo.com.
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.com.
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May 2016
Page 17
Brandon Edition
Canine Cabana Launches Fit Paws Fitness Program
By Andria Barrios
Canine Cabana recently launched a new Fit Paws programs to help dogs reach and maintain a healthy weight.
New diet and fitness programs are often trending for humans, but what about canines? Angie Frazier and Kendall Duncan, co-owners of Canine Cabana, a local doggie daycare company, made sure dogs wouldn’t be left out, especially since 58 percent of the nation’s pets are overweight. “The physical and mental health of all dogs is just as important as our own. We want all dogs to be in the best overall health so they can live happy, healthy and long lives,” Frazier continues. The Fit Paws program is full of safe and fun exercises that tackle the extra “fluff” on each pooch. Over the course of 20 days, a personal, certified trainer will portion out meals and treats as well as create customized mental and physical exercises
catered to each pet’s individual ability and endurance, allowing for an overall healthier lifestyle. The program also includes daycare, which means dogs can enjoy socializing and playing in addition to shedding some pounds. Each week, the trainer holds consultations with each dog’s owner to discuss challenges and progress. Frazier and Duncan met at Busch Gardens where they served as zookeepers in 1997. Eight years ago, they collaborated to create Canine Cabana, a dog lodging, daycare, grooming and personalized training facility. With over 20 team members, “We are experts in our field. Our team is thoroughly trained in dog language, behavior and animal care, as well as CPR and First Aid. We have constant supervision of all activities and keep the highest staff to dog ratios of any facility,” explains Frazier. Canine Cabana is also open for drop off and pick up seven days a week with full staff, hours and activities each day. For reservations or a free consultation, or for more information, call 6729663 or visit www.caninecabana.biz or www.facebook.com/caninecabanafl/. Canine Cabana is located at 9708 Carr Rd. in Riverview.
By Nicole Heubusch
Starting A Neighborhood Watch It’s not hard to start a Neighborhood Watch program in your HOA community, but it does take some time and effort. In this article, we will provide a few tips on how your HOA can begin to implement a program.
Step 1: Research
Visit different National Neighborhood Watch program websites to find information to help you get started such as www.nnw.org, This website has plenty of materials for your HOA community to use. In addition to finding information online, determine the area you want to organize. The whole neighborhood? If you have a larger neighborhood, more than 150 homes, you might want to divide the area into two watch programs. Use the HOA Board’s resources to reach out to the community members to see who would like to volunteer for the Neighborhood Watch program. A good ratio of volunteers is one person for every eight to 10 households. The HOA board can determine a night to present their Neighborhood Watch plan to inform the community of the program. Another idea is to set up a watch website. This will make it easier to coordinate and communicate with volunteers and residents.
Step 2: Contact The Sheriff’s Office
We recommend contacting your local
sheriff’s office to schedule guest speakers at your Neighborhood Watch presentation. The best way to get the word out to residents about the presentation is to have your neighbor volunteers distribute invitations door to door.
Step 3: Prepare A Neighborhood Map
Prepare a Neighborhood Watch map that shows the entire area involved in the watch program. Show names, phone numbers, and street numbers of each household.
Step 4: The Presentation
At the community presentation, you will identify all resident concerns and develop an action plan. Go over crime prevention techniques and how to report any suspicious activity. This is where neighbors can meet each other and establish a communication network (i.e., a telephone tree).
Step 5: Keep Everyone’s Interest
It can be hard to keep everyone interested in a project after its initial start. You want residents to keep vigilance with the Neighborhood Watch Program. There are a few ways to keep everyone involved, such as planning neighborhood outings, meetings, summer picnics, and a monthly Neighborhood Watch Newsletter. Does your HOA community have a Neighborhood Watch Program? Email nicoleh@ospreyobserver.com to be featured in next month’s edition.
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Page 18
Volume 11, Issue 5
Brandon Edition
Sea Tow Boat Service Promotes Peace Of Mind On The Water During National Boating Safety Month
By Tamas Mondovics
boaters in the Tampa and St. Petersburg area waters, and is urging all boaters to be prepared and put safety first while enjoying themselves out on the bay area waterways. “Our mission and goal is to provide peace of mind on the water as we provide our members commitment to safety and customer satisfaction, which has Sea Tow of Tampa Bay (from left) Raul and Cile Moreno, Captain Erich and Abby Jaeger provide helped make us one of the leading assistance for boaters around the bay. and most respected marine assisIt is safe to say that the start of the tance provider in the world,” said Sea 2016 summer boating season is a great Tow of Tampa Bay Owner Cile Moreno, opportunity for experienced, new and who with the support of several family prospective boaters to invest the time and members and a five-member team of effort in some education, reminders and USCG licensed, trained and qualified services that may come in handy while captains are standing by to assist boaters on the water. in need. For this reason, the month of May “People go out on the water unprehas been annually designated as pared, which often means missing the National Boating Safety Month, encourbasics and the required equipment aging and assisting recreational boaters including life jackets, anchors, a horn or to have their vessels inspected through a sound-producing device, fire extinguishVessel Safety Check (VSC) and to make ers and a brief description of its operation sure their boats are safe and have the (P.A.S.S.) and flares or other visual disproper safety equipment. tress signals just to mention a few,” Cile According to the U.S. Coast Guard said. Just having a simple checklist on Boating Safety Division, and the Florida hand is a great start and can save a life.” Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), the Cile and her staff operate five vesstate continues to lead the nation with sels to be able to quickly assist those in nearly a million recreationally registered need within both sides of the bay and vessels, and hundreds of boating accinearby waterways. dents, coupled with a great number of The company currently offers annual fatalities each year. memberships at $179, which Cile said, To help promote boating safety this “Beats the average one-time cost of $750 boating season, Sea Tow of Tampa Bay, per tow.” To get or renew a Sea Tow a local franchise of the boat service commembership, contact (727) 547-1868, or pany, is standing by 24-hours a day, tampabay@seatow.com or visit seven days a week to assist any and all www.seatow.com/local/tampabay/.
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May 2016
Page 19
Brandon Edition
Introducing A Simple Reliable Smart Home Staff Report
recognize your smart device as you approach your home and it will set your preferred home ambience before you even walk through the door. “Budget Blinds works with both the natural and artificial lighting part of the Smart Home system and having automated window coverings will make you never want to live without them,” said Trotter. “You can set your Smart Home is now an affordable option allow- window coverings to your time zone ing automation of your window coverings, light- so they will rise and lower according ing, temperature and other home functions. to the daylight hours. People use this Imagine coming home after a long system to set their shades to come up at day at work to find your home warmly lit. a certain time in the morning and use the The shades have been drawn and the natural light to wake them instead of an temperature is perfect. Your home has obtrusive alarm.” prepared itself for you so you can immeSmart shades can also enhance your diately start enjoying a relaxing evening. home’s security. You can set them to Home automation technology allows raise and lower at appropriate times you to control things like lighting, temperwhen you are on vacation; making it ature, window coverings and other home appear as though someone is home. functions all with the touch of a button. The Lutron cellular and roller shades This technology is a luxury and until are cordless, making them safe for chilrecently, it has not been a luxury the aver- dren and pets. age homeowner could afford. The Lutron technology leads the “Budget Blinds and Lutron have industry. Not only was the company the made home automation affordable and first to invent the light dimmer in the late easy to use,” said Elaine Trotter, co1950s, they have invested hundreds of owner of Budget Blinds of Brandon. lighting control devices and systems and “Normally when you start to look at home have led innovations in window shade automation with window coverings for technology using wireless and wired sysmost homeowners it’s not really an afford- tems to control both daylight and electric able option; now it is.” light. Lutron’s Smart Home is a simple Budget Blinds, located at 10437 home automation system that allows you Gibsonton Dr. in Riverview, recently to control and schedule your window cov- received its certification from Lutron as erings, lighting and thermostat all through Smart Home Consultants. For more infora touch of a button. You can control it with mation on the Budget Blinds and Lutron a remote or wall control, or through the Smart Home integrated home automation Smart Home application on your smart system, call 445-7121 or visit device. The system is programmed to BBSmartHomeNorthTampa.com.
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May 2016
Brandon Edition
Page 20
Brandon
May 2016
Volume 11, Issue 5
Ph: 657-2418
InThis Section
MOSI RELOCATION..............................PG 25 TOASTMASTERS CLUB.........................PG 28 CHALKLINES.........................................PG 31 SPORTS CONNECTION..................PGS 32‐33 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT....................PG 34
Ribbon Cutting Held For Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC Mike and Christian Beiter of Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC were thrilled to celebrate the opening of their new office. Last month the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, along with the Valrico/Fishhawk Chamber of Commerce conducted an official ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the occasion. To learn more about Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC, call 627-0872 or visit their new office at 912 Lithia Pinecrest Road in Brandon. Visit www.preservation1st.com.
Steve Moran Is Keller Williams Top Agent 12 Years In A Row
South, Franciscan Conference Room, 6901 Simmons Loop, in Riverview, on Thursday, May 26 from 11:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Registration required. Call 443-3046 or visit BayCareEvents.org. Parking is free and light refreshments will be served.
Mobile Pet Grooming
Photo courtesy Ed Booth, Huth and Booth Photography
Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC ribbon cutting last month.
Clothing Sale At Inna’s Alterations And Repairs
Inna’s Alterations and Repairs is now offering clothing for sale at 20-50 percent off until the supply is gone. Store hours are Tuesday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Wednesday through Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Inna has over 25 years of experience in alterations and repairs and is located in the Bloomingdale Professional Center at 1548 Bloomingdale Ave. E. Call 651-4416.
Steve Moran with Keller Williams Suburban Tampa has finished as the Top Individual Agent. Moran had over $18 million in written volume for 2015. Lynette Silon-Laguna Accepted As He finished as Two Years AIOFLA’s 10 Best In Steve Moran with number one single Florida For Client Satisfaction Keller Williams agent out of 900 The American Institute of Family Suburban Tampa finagents in the Keller Law Attorneys (AIOFLA’s) has recogished as the Top Individual Agent. Williams Chadwick nized the exceptional performance of Group, which includes Florida’s Family Law Attorney Lynette Hillsborough and Pinellas County. Moran Silon-Laguna as Two Years 10 Best has been with Keller Williams for 12 Family Law Attorney for Client years. He can be reached at 661-2476. Satisfaction. The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys is a third-party
Ashley Boyd is the owner of Paw Envy, a new mobile grooming van, which will come to you and your pet. Paw Envy offers full grooming, baths, flea and tick, nails, de-shed, de-mat and more. Paw Envy mobile pet grooming van will take care of all your grooming needs in the comfort of your driveway. It is available weekdays and weekends. Visit www.pawenvy.com or call 447-6388.
attorney rating organization that publishes an annual list of the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in each state. Attorneys who are selected to the "10 Best" list must pass AIOFLA's rigorous selection process, which is based on client and/or peer nominations, thorough research, and TNT Termite And AIOFLA’s indePest Control pendent evaluaCelebrates Five Paw Envy is a mobile grooming van for tion. Selection criYears your pet. teria focus on Bonnie and Ed attorneys who demonstrate the highest Tekampe, owners of TNT Termite and standards of Client Satisfaction. Contact Pest Control, are proud to serve the local 375-0539 or www.familymaritallaw.com. community. They recently celebrated their fifth year in business. Many homes in Help For Pelvic Health Conditions Eastern Hillsborough County are protectDr. Armas, a physician specialist, will ed from ants, spiders, roaches, and terhost a free seminar on various treatment mites by TNT Termite and Pest Control, options available for women with incontiwhich provides a quarterly service for resnence and other pelvic floor issues. This Continued on next page will take place at St. Joseph’s Hospital-
Page 22
Volume 11, Issue 5
Brandon Edition
Business Column Continued............. idential home owners and custom services for its commercial customers. Andy Tekampe joined the team three years ago and has contributed to the growth of TNT. They are now looking to add a fourth member to the team. Call 7169196 or 760-2691. Visit www.TNTtermiteandpestcontrol.com.
Kid’s Day At HealthSource Offers Free Chiropractic Kid Exams
HealthSource of Brandon is hosting its first Kid’s Day on Thursday, June 16 from 1-5 p.m. at its office located at 166 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. B in Brandon. This is a free community event. Free Chiropractic examinations will be offered to all children and teens to help detect problems in their young spine that can lead to future issues as adults, just like a dentist checks for cavities in the teeth. There is no obligation for future care. For every new patient exam given during Kid’s day, HealthSource Chiropractic will give $20 back to A Kid’s Place. There will be a bounce house, food, music, games and prize giveaways from local businesses that have a passion for keeping kids healthy and active. Call 654-7121 to schedule your free kid’s exam.
By Michelle Colesanti Sentinel Background Checks Of Brandon Is Growing
Sentinel Background Checks, a local and national provider of pre-employment and tenant screening services is proud to announce several new additions to its staff. Kathleen Sadler brings 16 years of business development experience as the new operations manager. Sandy Meyer brings her journalism background as the new marketing manager and Brenda Dibiase brings over 10 years experience in executive administration to her role as the office manager. Sentinel Background Checks is a local and nationwide background check company located in Brandon. Services include pre-employment and tenant screening, assessments and self background checks. Call 888-7252535 or visit www.sb checks.com.
inRsite Computer Becomes inRsite IT Solutions
Security Consulting as well as Website design and hosting services. Visit www.inRsite.com or call 661-8324.
Mystery Sale Brings Six Year Anniversary Savings At Diva Consignment Boutique
Diva Consignment Canine Cabana Boutique, a stylProm For ish women’s Pooches clothing boutique On Tuesday, in Brandon, will In April, The Greater Brandon Chamber of June 21, Canine Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting celebration celebrate its six for the Grand Opening of Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Cabana will kick year anniversary located at 2874 Providence Lakes Blvd. in off its first Puppy on Saturday, Brandon. Owners Adam, Ian and JRay Prom for all its Lieberman welcomed their family and chamber June 4. A staff to join. This Brandon location is their 90th Mystery Sale will tail-wagging location in the U.S. with corporate headquarters guests. be held that day in Ft. Worth, Texas. This celwhich will equal a ebration will include a photo multitude of savings. The boutique spebooth to capture each fabulous cializes in like-new and new clothing for attendee and a disco dance women of all sizes carrying name brand party to get those pups partying clothing for 50-80 percent off regular on their paws. Guests are encouraged to retail. Diva Consignment Boutique is arrive in their finest puppy prom attire. open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m.Bananas Foster will complete the night as 5 p.m. Consignors can bring in clothing a gourmet treat. any time during normal business hours. Pup parents can Spring and summer clothing is now sign their companion being accepted. Clothing must be no up for the event by older than two years old, clean, pressed calling Canine and on hangers. The consignment period Cabana at 672is 60 days, and consignors receive 40 WOOF. Canine percent of the sale of their merchandise. Cabana is located at Purses, belts, scarves, hats and newer 9708 Carr Rd. in looking shoes are also accepted. Riverview. Contact Visit www.divaconsignmentfl.com or call 672-9663 or angie@ 681-5500. caninecabana.biz.
For the past six years inRsite The Way 2 Dance, a Brandon swing, Computers has providSam Raabe Promoted To General ballroom and Salsa dance studio, recent- ed top-tier computer Orange Home Manager Of Brandon Honda Canine Cabana is hosting a Puppy ly earned top honors at the Sarasota repair services to the Accessories Raises Prom on Tuesday, June 21. John Marazzi has promoted Sam Challenge, a ballroom dance competition Brandon and Riverview Money for Family Raabe, general sales manager of held at the Hyatt Regency in Sarasota. areas. What retail customers may not Promise Brandon Honda, to general manager, Two amateur competitors won top in know is that it has also supported many Orange Home Accessories held its where he will oversee all operations class awards, John Ware for Top Male local small and mid-sized businesses by Welcome Spring event including sales, service and finance. Bronze and Missy Ide for Top Female providing Managed IT last month for Family Raabe is a native of Ocala. In 2011, Newcomer. In addition, Vince Harwood Services, essentially Promise of Greater Raabe relocated to Tampa and joined earned second and third in Men's becoming their IT departBrandon. Everyone Brandon Honda as Business Manager Championship along with many first ment. The company has enjoyed live and was soon named to places in different categories. Jerry shifted to focus solely on music by Ella sales manager. By June of Burgin and Barbara Ware brought home Managed IT Services for businesses. and Jazz Pianist, Jimmy Silva, 2011, he had been promota lot of first This change has along with wine and appetizers, ed to general sales managand second allowed the comraffles and specials. A total of er to oversee day-to-day placement pany to devote all $1,000 was raised for Family sales operations. in their resources and Promise. He was named to “40 dance cateknowledge to Orange is a home décor and Under 40” in Automotive gories. Both provide clients gift store that specializes in wellNews in July 2014 and Tatyana with superior supdesigned pieces that are artful in Business Observer in Frost and port and faster and functional. It offers an eclecOctober 2014. Brandon David Orcutt response times tic mix for any style and the perHonda is located at 9209 won in the while saving time fect gifts for the hard to buy for E. Adamo Dr. in Tampa. It Top Teacher and money. In person. Orange Home is a Green-Star Certified Sam Raabe was The Way 2 Dance proudly displayed awards earned category and at recently promoted to automobile service facility Accessories is open Monday the Sarasota Challenge, a ballroom dance compe- addition to general manager at The Way 2 Managed IT tition. through Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and works proactively to Brandon Honda. Dance took Services, inRsite and Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. It is protect the environment. home the coveted Top Large Studio troalso provides Voice Over IP, Cloud Server located at 1046 Bloomingdale Ave. in Call 664-1234 or visit www.Brandon phy. Hosting, Virtual Desktops, HIPAA/PCI Valrico (in Plaza Bella). Call 681-8686. Honda.com.
Local Dance Studio Wins Top Awards
Dr. Daniel and Mary Stahl Lead Pastors
207 New Hope Road , Brandon • (1-mile North of HWY 60 off N. Parsons Ave.)
Sunday at 9:00 & 10:30 AM •Contemporary Music • Casual Dress • Children’s Church (10:30 Service Only) Clean Safe Nursery • Relevant Biblical Teaching • Friendly Atmosphere AD SPONSORED BY SHH & SONS, INC
May 2016
Brandon Edition
Page 23
Page 24
Volume 11, Issue 5
Brandon Edition
Freedom To Walk Foundation Seeks Sponsors For Fall Gala Staff Report The Freedom to muscles involved in liftWalk Foundation was ing the front part of the founded four years ago to foot necessary for peohelp improve the lives of ple to walk. It causes a children and adults with a person to either drag the walking impairment called foot and toes or engage Foot Drop, due to in a high-stepping walk Multiple Sclerosis, called steppage gait. Cerebral Palsy, stroke, The WalkAide, spinal cord injury and approved by the U.S. traumatic brain injury. Food and Drug To help educate and Administration, is an assist them with the fundelectronic device that ing for the purchase of when worn on the calf, WalkAides, the 501(c)(3) sends electric impulses non-profit is hosting its to the affected foot, Fourth Annual One Step causing the foot and leg At A Time Gala on to lift and follow through Last year’s Gala WalkAide recipi- as they would with a natSaturday, October 1 at ent, Caleb, and family. the Centre Club at 123 S. ural gait, but most insurWest Shore Blvd. in Tampa from 6-11 ance companies will not cover the cost of p.m. Sponsors to date are Hanger Clinic, about $5,000 per unit. American Dream Home Mortgage, The “You can help change the lives of Realty Group, The Miss Buckle-Up children and adults who will greatly benePrincess Foundation, CMIT Solutions of fit from this much needed device by supBrandon, Montefu Consulting Inc., and porting and participating in the foundaDelta Credit Restoration Inc. tion’s Fourth Annual Gala. Because of the The community is invited to attend sponsorships, we will be able to provide a the gala, which will feature fine dining, WalkAide to two recipients, so we are music, dancing, raffles, and silent auction. urging sponsors to support us on different Keynote Speakers are Ron Klein, levels,” said Daisy Vega, founder and Inventor of the Magnetic Strip on the president of Freedom to Walk Credit Card, Developer of Computerized Foundation, who has Multiple Sclerosis Systems for Real Estate (MLS) Multiple and has benefitted from the use of the Listing Services; and David Kauffman, WalkAide which she purchased. Vega is Ziglar Legacy Certified seeking sponsors who have until Friday, Speaker/Trainer/Coach. September 2 to register. Contact 546Foot Drop is a condition character2329 or Daisy.Vega@FreedomToWalk ized by weakness or paralysis of the Foundation.com. Visit bit.ly/1VQKci2.
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May 2016
Page 25
Brandon Edition
MOSI Begins Planning To Relocate Downtown
By Grayson Kamm
design and build major new hospitals, MOSI Board Chair Mike Schultz, president and CEO of Florida Hospital’s West Florida Region, will lead the task force. “We are going to work with the best and brightest minds available to truly reinvent MOSI and its role in our community,” Schultz said. In addition, MOSI will take MOSI is currently located at 4801 E Fowler Ave. in Tampa. Ziplining is just one of the many activities. these next steps: Launch a strategic planning process to Launching a project that will create chart the future of MOSI as a reinvented, an iconic institution and a beacon for vibrant, future-focused science center, learning in Tampa’s cultural core, the lead community conversations to discover Museum of Science & Industry’s (MOSI) what the people of Tampa Bay want from board of directors voted Tuesday to begin their new, innovative institution, and planning to relocate and reinvent MOSI in engage a specialized team of professiona new home in Downtown Tampa. als to begin the design, planning, and The vote follows the board’s review fundraising for a world-class science cenof a feasibility study that projects promister. ing attendance and finances in a new The planning effort is expected to location, as well as pledges of support up to a year and will identify the featake from key partners in Hillsborough County tures, exhibits, and programs offered in a and Strategic Property Partners, the new science center; an exact location group leading the effort to redevelop the and size; and the costs and funding area around Amalie Arena. sources involved. A new facility presents a path to fiscal “Our planners will be seeking out sustainability for MOSI, and that sustaininnovative designs and exciting ways to ability will power its vital, unique blend of touch the future. And we’ll also be elevatfun and STEAM (Science, Technology, ing key elements of MOSI’s existing proEngineering, Arts, and Math) learning for grams – exploring space, understanding generations to come. sciences, and connecting with health MOSI will now bring together a task tomorrow,” said MOSI President and force of community partners, land use CEO Molly Demeulenaere. “In the year experts, philanthropists, museum master ahead, MOSI will move from a focus on planners, scientists, and educators to being the largest science center in the lead the relocation and reinvention of the Southeast to becoming one of the finest science center. in North America.” Visit www.mosi.org. As a veteran of multiple projects to
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Page 26
Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 5
Neal Communities Breaks Ground On New Villas At FishHawk Ranch
Staff Report
split-plan with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a den and a two-car garage. The Crystal Sand is an open-concept plan with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a twocar garage. “Neal Communities is an outstanding addition to FishHawk Ranch,” said Pam Parisi, vice presiAn artist’s rendering of upcoming Crystal Sand dent of marketing at Newland villa by Neal Communities at FishHawk Ranch. Communities. “With their solid repuNewland Communities is pleased to tation and exceptionally-built homes, they welcome Neal Communities, one of will be an excellent complement to our Southwest Florida’s leading homefamily of builders.” builders, to FishHawk Ranch. Neal “We’re excited to bring our quality Communities has broken ground on two homes to the beautiful FishHawk Ranch villa model homes, and will construct a community,” said Michael Storey, presitotal of 76 low-maintenance villas in the dent of Neal Communities. “The market is gated neighborhood of Sagewood in this prime for this innovative master-planned award-winning, master planned commucommunity that hosts resident events and nity. provides homeowners a connection to The villas mark Neal Communities’ nature. We look forward to introducing the first entrance in FishHawk Ranch. Neal Communities brand to this commuFishHawk Ranch is owned in a joint nity and offering homeowners a diverse venture partnership between NORTH lineup of quality homes with the Neal AMERICA SEKISUI HOUSE, LLC knack for quality, design and excellent (NASH), the U.S. business unit and full value.” subsidiary of SEKISUI HOUSE, LTD., FishHawk Ranch, which boasts 25 Japan’s largest homebuilder and leading miles of nature trails, is the first certified diversified developer, and Newland Real green new-home community in Estate Group, LLC, whose development Hillsborough County. The community has business, Newland Communities, is the 1,300 acres of preserved and rehabilitatmaster developer of the community. It is ed wetlands and wildlife spots. Villa resione of more than 30 communities the dents will also be able to utilize the outNASH-Newland partnership owns togeth- standing amenities that FishHawk Ranch er in 11 states across the United States. offers, including The Lake House commuNeal Communities will offer two vernity center, Central Park pools, sports satile home plans – the 1,524-sq. ft. fields and a dog park, as well as the Tidewater model and the 1,434-sq. ft. future retail Village Center. For more Crystal Sand model. The Tidewater is a details, visit www.fishhawkranch.com.
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May 2016
Brandon Edition
Academic Alliance In Dermatology Welcomes New Doctors To Brandon Practice
Staff Report
New doctors active general have recently dermatology pracbeen welcomed tice, he is one of into the the few Academic Fellowship-trained Alliance in Mohs Surgeons Dematology in Tampa Bay practice located specializing in in Brandon. surgical dermatolOriginally ogy, skin (Left) Dr. Hoka Nyanda and Dr. David Sable (right) a native from cancer, and recently joined Academic Alliance in Dermatology. Tanzania, East surgical Africa, Hoka Nyanda, MD, FAAD, FAAP, reconstruction. Originally a Boston came to the Brandon area from native, he earned a Bachelors of Nashville, Tennessee. She obtained a Science in chemistry from Tufts Bachelor of Science degree from University before successfully completWestern Kentucky University, and ing a Ph.D. in chemistry from the received her medical degree from University of California at Berkeley. After Meharry Medical College in Nashville, completing his Ph.D., he returned to Tennessee, and completed both dermaBoston to complete an M.D. at Tufts tology and pediatric residencies at the before successfully completing an University of South Florida. During her Internal Medicine Internship at Brigham dermatology residency, she served as a and Women’s Hospital and a Pathology chief resident for academic education. Residency at Massachusetts General She is double board certified in dermaHospital. He then completed a tology and pediatrics, and is a member Dermatology Residency at Wayne State of the American Academy of University where he was ultimately Dermatology, American Academy of named chief resident for his final year. Pediatrics, American Society of Dr. Sable then completed a Fellowship Dermatologic Surgery and the Florida in Dermatologic Surgery and Mohs Medical Association. Dr. Nyanda is Surgery at the University of Wisconsin, Board Certified in Dermatology and where he had the opportunity to learn Pediatrics. the Mohs Surgery under Dr. Stephen David Sable, MD, PhD, FAAD, Snow who had been trained by Dr. FACMS, also joined Academic Alliance Frederick Mohs. He said, “My mission as in Dermatology, Inc. in February. He is a dermatologist is simple: I want my an American Board of Medical patients to be treated like family.” Specialties Board Certified Academic Alliance in Dermatology is Dermatologist and a Fellowship-trained located at 131 N. Oakwood Ave., Ste Dermatologic Surgeon. In addition to an 135 in Brandon. Call 440-5544.
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Volume 11, Issue 5
Brandon Edition
Become A Better Public Speaker At Breckenridge Toastmasters Club
By Kathy L. Collins
Members of the club are encouraged to visit with other clubs. Many who visit are working to progress through the Toastmasters curriculum and speech manuals, and they earn recogniThe members of the Breckenridge Toastmasters Club are tion for their accomplishdiverse, but all have one goal in mind to strive to be peak ments. These include performers and the very best versions of themselves. but are not limited to If you would like the opportunity to Competent Communicator, Advanced gain confidence and learn to speak articu- Communicator Bronze and Distinguished lately and eloquently, then you should Toastmaster. consider joining Toastmasters. Locally, At the recent meeting of the the Breckenridge Toastmasters, a place Breckenridge Toastmasters club, their “where leaders are made,” meets on the guest speaker was Mark Gai. He utilized second and fourth Friday of each month. the opportunity to speak before the club They meet at the Brandon Chamber of in order to perfect the delivery of a conCommerce, located at 330 Pauls Dr. in test speech, “Speak Up.” Gai was preparBrandon from 6:30-7:45 p.m. ing to have the speech delivered and According to Cate Baierlein with the judged at a conference. Breckenridge Toastmasters, “We have an Also at the meeting were several offiopen door policy. There is no prerequisite cials from Toastmasters District 48 which to joining our club, and we welcome serves all of the West Coast of Florida everyone to visit the club to determine Toastmasters Clubs and Chapters. Lynn whether it is a good fit.” If you decide to Perry, the Club Growth Director for District join, there is a short application process 48 said, “Being a member of and once a member of the local club, you Toastmasters is like taking a master’s become a member of Toastmasters class in communications.” International. Barrington Williams of Riverview is Baierlein said, “Many people, includthe president of the Breckenridge ing prominent public figures and movie Toastmasters Club. Williams said, “I have stars, credit Toastmasters as the foundabeen a member for 10 years, but I really tion to their success. The reasons people got into it about three years ago. I wanted join are highly individualized. Our memto fake it until I make it as a competent, bers achieve their personal and profesoutgoing and poetic speaker.” sional development goals because of the Visit breckenridge.toastmastersupport we provide each other.” sclubs.org or follow them on Facebook.
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Page 29
Brandon Edition
Established Home Remodeling Company Offers Quality Workmanship
By Andria Barrios
Innovative Residential Remodeling LLC offers professional personalized service to its customers.
Home renovations is something that one local business never fails to take seriously. Innovative Residential Remodeling LLC has operated for years under professional management to produce many satisfied customers. This established home remodeling company offers customized service and quality workmanship, while ensuring that the customer’s experience is everything they desire. Pablo Laise, head residential contractor, operates with over 20 years of experience in the industry, from building to remodeling. He began his career building custom homes with Leone Homes in Ohio, but soon moved to Brandon where he operates locally. Though several trade specialists assist with every job, Laise is onsite with every project making sure that each task is completed properly from beginning to end. “Speedy without sacrificing quality, is how I stay focused to complete the job,” said Laise. Innovative Residential Remodeling specializes in kitchen and bathroom
remodels as well as cabinet door re-facing, interior painting and other major repairs like window, door and floor installation. The company is experienced in completing everything from tub to shower conversion to tile replacement to trim and custom wainscoting. Whether customers have a small bathroom remodeling in mind or a huge renovation of their entire home, Innovative Residential Remodeling takes pride in its expertise and passion to get the job done in a smart, efficient and sustainable way. The company also offers free onsite visits and estimates and guides clients through every step of the project while keeping budget, deadlines and quality top of the mind. It additionally offers a complimentary one year labor warranty with every job. “Innovative Residential Remodeling did an excellent job of remodeling our kitchen as well as re-flooring and painting other areas. Everyone who worked in our home was very professional. They were always concerned with the cleanup after each transition of the project and made sure our space remained livable while taking the utmost care of other areas. We’re very pleased with our new kitchen and would highly recommend Pablo Laise,” said Mary Tamargo of Sun City. Clearly, the professionalism and personal service offered by this company throughout the years have contributed greatly to their success as well as that of the surrounding community. To request an estimate, call 813-3919644. Visit www.innovativeresidentialremodeling.com or on Facebook.
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Page 30
Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 5
Sheriff’s Office Celebrates Law Enforcement History 170 Years In The Making
By Tamas Mondovics
Standing in front of a large crowd with a giant pair of scissors at hand, Sheriff David Gee officially cut the ribbon on the front doors of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) History Center, located at 2001 N. 19th St. on the corner of Ninth Avenue and 19th Street in Ybor City. The opening of the History Center earlier this month was more than just an outlet to display the various aspects of sheriff's office history. To those that worked on the project, making the museum a reality was also a celebration of 170 years of law enforcement excellence. The facility will now showcase the evolution of the Department of Detention Services, historical uniforms, law enforcement technologies and equipment, and a Fallen Heroes room, in addition to an extensive badge collection and hundreds of photographs. "We've been diligently working to make this a reality," Deputy Jerry Carey said just before Gee cut the ribbon. Carey emphasized that the History Center is an opportunity to interact with the community when he said, “It is a great place for people to visit and to share their experiences.” First inside the renovated and tastefully decorated building, Gee spoke proudly about the making and seeing the project become a reality as he welcomed local residents, friends, and fellow officers along with members of the media. “It is neat to see this project now
(Right) Hillsborough County Sheriff David Gee cuts the ribbon on the department’s brand new History Center now open on the corner of Ninth Avenue and 19th Street in Ybor City. (Above) Uniforms on display at the museum. (Right) Former HCSO Major Ron Hartley points to an old friend on a photograph on display at the center.
ready to be enjoyed by the community as it is a great reflection on the history of Hillsborough County,” Gee said, adding that over the years artifacts and photographs, old uniforms, equipment, badges and jail logs have just been laying around or being collected, but are now on display. To gather 170 years of history and pack them into an approximately 1,200 sq. ft. museum was not an easy task, but thanks to a dedicated team of retired and current deputies led by HCSO Captain Jim Bradford, it is now a part of HCSO’s
history. “The project took five years and everyone who had something to share was more than willing to contribute,” Bradford said. “We are very pleased with how the center turned out and are looking forward to adding to the collection and to our County’s law enforcement history.” The opening celebration would not have been complete without the presence of many who have been making history including former HCSO Major Ron Hartley, who worked for the Sheriff's
Office for four decades. As he made his way through the Center, Hartley, 64, visibly took delight in recognizing old friends and recalling various incidents triggered by the photographs scattered throughout the various rooms. “Things were a bit different back then,” Hartley said, adding, “Times have sure changed, over the years.” Perhaps one of the most sobering display was the Fallen Heroes room, featuring Sergeant Ben P. Wilder, Jr., who was killed while making an arrest in July, 1962. Sgt. Wilder’s uniform—donated to the museum by his widow 87-year-old Dorothy Wilder Alster,—is now on display behind glass. Wilder was 39 years old. “I am glad that I was able to donate this uniform to the museum,” Dorothy said. “The Sheriff’s Office has done a wonderful job of making sure that Ben is remembered.” HCSO hopes to continue collecting artifacts and to bring new displays to the center in the future. The history center is open Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information about the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, visit www.hcso.tampa.fl.us.
May 2016
Page 31
Brandon Edition
Photos and story by Tamas Mondavics
Sheriff’s Office Rising Stars Academy Chooses Participants & Food Tasting Expo Sheriff’s Office Seventh Annual Rising Stars Academy
Thirty-three Hillsborough County high school juniors who are advancing to seniors in September have been selected to participate in the sheriff’s much-coveted Rising Stars Academy (SRS) scheduled for this summer. The list includes Brandon High School student, Teresa Menendez, along with Kaylin Chastain and Mallory Guarisco (Bloomingdale), Casey Decator (Durant), Nailah Owens (East Bay), Erin Hanson and Hailey Cline (Lennard), Addison Ura (Newsome), Melissa Chin (Riverview) and Andrew Gray (Strawberry Crest). HCSO’s Community Outreach Division, in conjunction with members of the HCSO training division, Tampa Police Department, and the Hillsborough County School District, developed the leadership program in order to reward high achieving students with the week long leadership course conducted in a fun but challenging environment. “The mission of the academy is to provide a leadership program that enables each student to be exposed to
principles that will enhance their ability to be a successful and responsible citizen,” said Sgt. Sean Peters with the Sheriff’s Office School Resource section during the sixth annual SRS graduation ceremony. This year’s academy is once again fully funded by the Sheriff’s Office and is scheduled for Monday through Friday, June 13-17 at the various HCSO facilities, including the sheriff’s training range in Lithia, the courthouse, port and the operations center. Participants will also take a tour of the Sheriff's Youth Ranch in Palm Harbor. “This program recognizes those students that are leaders in their schools and their communities,” said HCSO School Resource Deputy Mike Alonso. Local leaders from within the community also share their experiences with the group. The course culminates in an awards ceremony for the participants and their families. For a complete list of the selected students and information about the Rising Star Academy, visit www.hcso.tampa.fl.us.
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It, or Dislike It based on the item’s appearance, smell, and taste. “The purpose of the tasting is to help The Hillsborough County Public Student Schools Nutrition Student Services proNutrition vide healthy Services menus that Department are based on hosted its student prefannual Fresh erences,” Flavors - Food Arja said. for Body and This Mind Expo year a group earlier this of parents month at were also TPepin’s invited to be Hospitality taste testers Centre. For and particithe seventh pate in a year in a row Hillsborough County Public School students taste poten- question and approximately tial menu items during a past food tasting expo. answer ses200 students sion about school meal initiatives with from around the district had a chance to Student Nutrition Services General taste and rate new menu items for the Manager Dr. Mary Kate Harrison. At the 2016-2017 school year menu. end each student received a goodie bag “We had every grade level representand had a chance to win a Fitbit fitness ed by the students who were ready to tracker. test the various potential future menu Student Nutrition Services operates items,” said Tanya Arja with the district as a self-supporting, $125 million dollar communications office. “Twenty-one new enterprise. Each day, close to 1,400 menu items were tested, including Gyro employees serve more than 214,000 Flatbread Sandwich, Funfetti Quinoa meals to students. Salad, and a Chicken and Pesto Piada.” To learn more, visit During the event, students were to www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. rate each item on a scale of Love It, Like
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Page 32
Brandon Edition
P R E SS
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Volume 11, Issue 5
Sports Connection 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Bloomingdale High School Claims Third Flag Football District Title
By Tamas Mondovics
record.” One of the most competiEast Bay will gradtive seasons for local girls uate three seniors and flag football programs ended has planned to return last month with Bloomingdale seven starters next High School claiming its third spring. straight district title (2014, Cooper was proud 2015, 2016). of his second year junTo win the 2A District 6 ior quarterback, championship and to close Sydney Hostelley, who the playoffs, the Bulls defeatmanaged to become ed Plant City 20-7, at East number two all-time Bay High School. quarterback and has Bloomingdale, led by procompleted 289 of 486 gram Head Coach Mike passes for 2,802 Lankford, beat East Bay 19-0 yards, 24 touchdowns, to reach the title game seven interceptions against the Raiders. and ran for five touchWith an impressive downs. record of six district titles Hostelley’s twin under its belt, the Raiders Sara, also sister, were added to the 2A-6 line enjoyed success on up, ending the season with a field this year by the 7-3 record as they played catching 103 passes against the Bulls for a sevfor 1,086 yards and 14 enth district championship touchdowns. (2008, 09, 11, 12, 13, 15). Senior wide The Bulls, however receiver, Courtnee proved a bit too much for the Thaxton, posted 45 Raiders. receptions for 610 “We are very excited to Photo courtesy Bloomingdale High School yards and four touchhave won the district for the The Bloomingdale Bulls 2016 flag football team celebrate their third straight district championship title. downs this season, third year in a row,” Lankford while on defense she said. “We work hard each Since 2007 (10 seasons) only four of “After winning two district titles in a row claimed thee interceptions and 49 flag and every day to try and be a top team in and being eliminated in the first game the 28 Hillsborough County high schools pulls. the state.” have made every district tournament: after that, we set our goals higher this Newsome went 5-4 and beat Lankford added that his team came Plant, Robinson, Plant City and East Bay. year. We are no longer happy with just Bloomingdale in the regular season. The into the 2016 season with high expectaIn 2016, flag football was placed into winning the district title.” Wolves won the district championship in tions and felt like the better team in the two classifications; in 2A with 118 teams Bloomingdale will graduate just four 2011. district. and 1A with 109 teams, with 20 indeseniors this year, the least amount For the first time Riverview (2-7) was “I said it before, but this is the best pendents. Lankford has seen graduated in his five led by the Sharks long time wrestling team I've ever had, on and off the field, As for the playoff host, East Bay years coaching the program. coach Willi Sargable. The team has and I think that showed at times this entered the season with what program “Our expectations moving forward will reportedly showed much improvement as year,” he said. Head Coach Michael Cooper said was be to keep making our program better on the season progressed, playing a number For the third time in a row, the Bulls his “best team in three years.” and off the field,” he said. “We will continof close games. The Sharks enjoyed the state-appearance quest ended with the “We have started strong, went to ue to try and outwork everyone else in talents of Mary Rodriguez, senior, who first round of regionals. This time the girls Tallahassee for Capital City Classic tourthe offseason as well as during the seaplayed for Bandits AAU club team and fell short of advancing after a 7-6 loss to nament going 2-1 with the team record at son.” participated in the Bucs recent half-time the St. Cloud Bulldogs. 6-2,” Cooper said. “Unfortunately, we The Bulls boast of two assistant game. For more information, visit Ahead of the game, Lankford hoped struggled scoring all year in both wins coaches, both of whom have promised to fhsa.org. to change the pattern when he said, and losses and finished with an 8-5 return next season.
May 2016
Brandon Edition
Sports
Connection
Page 33
Photos by Tamas Mondovics
Class 2A District 6 Flag Football Playoff Games In Photos
Bloomingdale Bulls Flag Football Head Coach Mike Lankford watches his players during the season’s district championship game against Plant City.
Plant City Raiders quarterback Alicia Zarate sends the ball down the field for a first down against Bloomingdale during the 2A-6 Flag Football District Championship.
Bloomingdale Bulls Miya Franklin gains some yards before her flag is pulled in the first quarter against the Plant City Raiders during the 2A-6 District Championship game last month at East Bay High School.
Bloomingdale senior quarterback Sarah Tam gets ready to connect the ball with junior wide receiver Jaid Angel for the extra point against Plant City.
Page 34
Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 5
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
The Village Players To Present The Producers The Village Players will present the Mel Brooks production The Producers this June. Opening night on Friday, June 3 will be the ever popular Dinner and a Show. This time, according to Gail Pierce with the Village Players, “There will be a twist. We are hoping to create an atmosphere of opening night at the Tony’sscaled down of course.” Doors open at 7 p.m. and the Dinner and Show begin at 8 p.m. The cost is $25 per person. Opening Night Dinner and a Show is a fundraiser for the Village Players. Restaurants or companies who want to support this local theatre group and their efforts to restore the historic James McCabe Theatre are able to sponsor the upcoming three shows left for the 20152016 season. Pierce explained, “Your company will be recognized as helping with the renovations of a historic 1915 building in our community, and as a sponsor and patron of the arts in our community as well.” Regular show dates will be Saturday,
License CGC#1513613
June 4, 11 and 18 and Friday, June 10 and 17 at 8 p.m. Matinees will be held on Sunday, June 5 and 12 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15 regular admission and $13 for seniors, military and students. For groups of 10 or more, pre-purchased tickets are $12 each. The Producers is a Tony Award winning Broadway hit. The plot is quite simple. A down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most ridiculous flop in history thereby bilking their backers out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes awrythe show is a hit. You will follow the antics of the two main characters as they find a show, hire a director, raise money and ultimately go to jail. At the core of the insanely funny adventure is a poignant emotional journey of two very different men who become friends. The Producers will take place at the home of the Village Players, the James McCabe Theatre located at 506 5th St. in Valrico.To purchase tickets, call 480-3147 or visit www.villageplayersvalrico.com.
Brandon League Of Fine Arts Annual Members Show The May exhibit awarded to Kathy Durdin, Marsha at Center Place in Nelson and Gunni Brandon is a show of Nilsson-Price. the artwork of the talWith 60 pieces of ented members of the artwork in the show, Brandon League of you will find a variety Fine Arts. While this is of media including oil, not a juried show as it acrylic, watercolor, is open to all memgraphics, collage and bers, it is judged. The even sculptures and winners are awarded with miniature paintings. ribbons and monetary Roxanne Tobaison, a gifts. The show is availlong time member of the able for viewing through Brandon League of Art the end of May at Center and an accomplished Place. watercolor artist and jewThe show was elry maker, said, “This is judged by Scott not a juried show. All work Robinson, an artist from received from members is Tampa. The winners included exhibited. This is one of the Charles Steirlen who many perks of being a received first place for his oil member of the Brandon piece, Yellow Girl. Frank League of Fine Arts. The Bolock who received second judges had a really hard place for his acrylic piece, time selecting the winners Dead Calm, and Betty from so much quality art Fairbanks who took third place with a watercolor The Annual Members Show of the work.” Brandon League of Fine Arts The Brandon piece, Crusty Old Blue includes Charles Steirlen’s first League of Fine Arts Eyes. There are two place piece, Yellow Girl, Frank meets the third Monday From the Heart Awards Bolock’s second place, Dead which are funded by Bay Calm, and Betty Fairbanks’ third each month at 7:30 p.m. place, Crusty Old Blue Eyes. Center Place is located Area Cardiology, and at 619 Vonderburg Dr. Call 685-8888 or these went to Guy Learn and Deborah visit www.centerplacebrandon.org. Biasetti. Three Honorable Mentions were
May 2016
Brandon Edition
My Gym Offers Fitness, Fun For Toddlers To Teens
By Amy Schechter
The path to a Bundle, a healthy lifestyle Terrific Tot, a begins early in Mighty Mite, or life. The problem a Cardio Kid of childhood obethere are classsity continues to es suited for all plague American ages to develfamilies impacting op strength, over ten percent coordination, of children, and balance, and with obesity flexibility in a comes increased structured, My Gym in Brandon offers classes for children risks of heart disengaging enviages six weeks through their teens. ease, diabetes, ronment comasthma, social discrimination, and lowplete with gymnastics, music, dance, and ered self-esteem. However, this is entirely sports. It also offers space for birthday preventable, and there is a solution: My parties and special events. Gym in Brandon. Committed to helping Parents can take advantage of My adolescents develop physically, psychoGym as well. Every second Friday of the logically, and emotionally, there is somemonth from 6:30-10 p.m., My Gym holds thing for kids of all ages from six weeks a Parent’s Night where parents can drop through their teens. Most importantly, My off their kids who will have the opportunity Gym makes fitness fun, so children for open play, movies, pizza, and more. develop healthy practices they carry into My Gym is rolling out some summer adulthood. promotions for its summer camp opportuThurlowe Russell, owner and director nities from June 13-17 and July 11-July of My Gym, understands the important 15. Camp runs from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. mission that comes with attaining the each day and offers the same opportunity milestones of a healthy, happy life. for children ages three and older who are “I’m a dad of two, so I have a 4-year- potty trained to have fun and stay active. old who is about to be five and a 7-yearNo two days are ever the same. Parents old. As a parent who worked through who book all ten camp days will receive weekends, finding a program that was them for the cost of eight. There will be a safe and fun and helped my kids’ develsummer camp enrollment event Friday, opment was a challenge. I happened to May 27 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. go to My Gym in another area, and I Children’s first class is always free. thought it would be a great opportunity to Check out www.mygym.com/brandon for provide for my kids. I treat everyone like pricing and class schedules. Book classmy own kids.” es completely online. Call 579-6872. My My Gym offers classes and openGym Brandon is located at 2060 play hours. Whether children are a Little Badlands Dr. in Brandon.
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Brandon Edition
Volume 11, Issue 5