Osprey Observer 2016-09 Brandon by Osprey Observer

Two Sections, 36 Pages of Community News

Brandon

& More Coming Pg. 24 C E L E B R A T I N G

September 2016 1 5

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County To Build $1.8M Veterans Resource Center At Veterans Memorial Park

By Tamas Mondovics

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tions, in-home visits and correspondence. Construction on the new center is expected to begin by the end of 2016, and to be completed in summer 2017. A rendition of the county’s future Veterans Resource Center to be The $1.8 million built at Veterans Memorial Park. project is being Hillsborough County officials funded by $300,000 in County Capital announced the plans to build a brand Improvement Program funds, and a new resource center to care for the $1.5 million grant from the Florida needs of local veterans. Department of Economic According to Hillsborough County Opportunity. Consumer and Veterans Services When complete, the new facility Director Frank Strom, the proposed will include a multi-purpose room for a 8,000 sq. ft., Veterans Resource number of uses such as training and Center is to be located at Veterans special events, but if funds become Memorial Park, 3602 N. U.S. Highway available future plans for the center 301, and will serve as the new home include a phased addition of 14,000 to for the County’s Consumer and 16,000 sq. ft. for educational use and Veterans Services. museum exhibits. “The location will serve as an allConstruction is anticipated to take in-one stop for our veterans,” Strom place on weekdays between 7 a.m.-5 said. “Following their visit at the cenp.m. Work will involve heavy equipter, they can enjoy the park, its memo- ment and excavation, it will generate rials and museums.” normal construction noise. The County's Veterans Services is Access to Veterans Memorial Park currently assisting local veterans and will be maintained throughout contheir families in accessing federal, struction, although in some areas, clostate and local benefits and supports sures within the park may be necesveteran's activities in the county as it sary. connects them to resources. For the safety of the workers, With more than 94,000 veterans, pedestrians and other motorists, are Hillsborough County is listed as the asked to observe all traffic control second largest veteran population in measures. All areas affected by the Florida. construction will be restored. Veterans Services assists an averFor more information about the age of 28,000 clients each year project, visit through personal and telephone interHCFLGov.net/CountyProjects under views, outreach, community presentathe County Building Projects link.

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Photo Courtesy of Mark Ober

Hillsborough State Attorney Mark Ober, 64, (R) speaks to residents during a recent primary election forum held at the Bell Shoals Baptist Church in Brandon. A Republican incumbent Ober has been Hillsborough state attorney since 2000 is now facing his Democratic contender Andrew Warren. Ober has not faced a challenger since 2008.

P O S I T I V E

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Fair Shows Blue Ribbon Country Pride There is a lot more to this year’s Hillsborough County Fair, which opens its gates just east of Brandon on October 20, than the traditional midway rides and fried food. “The County Fair offers an opportunity for residents of all ages to enter and display their talents,” said Janet Aversa, Hillsborough County Fair Board Member. “From cooking to rug hooking, and baking to picture taking, from sewing to growing and animals large and small.” The fair, which is held at the county fair grounds on Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover, will be open October 20-23 and October 27-30 and boasts many events including talents shows, Battle of the Bands, a Harvest Queen Scholarship Contest, many livestock shows, baby pageants and contests in plants, photography, arts and more. “There will be lots of blue ribbons and eye catching entries to reflect the talents of the folks in Hillsborough County,” said Aversa, who adds that new this year is an expanded 7,000 sq. ft. air conditioned area to display family living, arts and crafts, fine arts and photography. “Early entries are encouraged and forms are available on the Website.” In addition to the livestock area, which features daily shows of youth and their animals, is an Agricultural Education Center that offers fair goers a chance to learn more about life on the farm and in the country. “From baby chicks to the ‘milkable’ cow or the new scavenger hunt in the livestock area, it is education mixed with entertainment,” said Aversa. Highlights of the paid Arena Events include Ranch Rodeos, truck, tractor and lawnmower pulls and a demolition derby in addition to the traditional midway rides, fair foods and livestock shows. Free entertainment in the midway includes Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Paddling’

By Kate Quesada

Hillsborough County Fair’s theme is Country Pride. Opens October 20.

Porkers, a fire fighter show and circus acts. New to the fair this year in the Entertainment Tent is a Gospel Jam on Sunday afternoons which, according to Aversa, offers a mix of oldtime hymns and contemporary music. The Entertainment Tent is also home to the Children’s Pageant, the Western Wear Contest and the County Fair Talent Showcase. Tickets to the fair, which cost $7 for adults, $5 for students and $4 for seniors go on sale October 1 and can also be purchased at the gate. Arena events are an additional $10 per person. For more information, visit www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com or call 737-FAIR. 215 Sydney Washer Rd., Dover.

In This Issue 105 YEAR OLD IVA .............................PG 3 PECAN SALE .......................................PG 5 TIBBY’S NEW ORLEAN’S OPENS .......PG 10 HOA HOT TOPICS .............................PG 17 CARDS FOR TROOPS ........................PG 25 SPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 32‐33

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Brandon Edition

Volume 11, Issue 9

September 2016

Page 3

Brandon Edition

Brandon Resident Iva Lee Haygood Bell Still Smiling After 105 Years Iva Lee Haygood Bell recently celebrated a birthday that most of us can only hope to reach. She turned 105 on September 10. A party was held for her at the Bloomingdale West Recreation Center. Born in 1911 in Alpharetta, Georgia, Bell relocated with her family to Tampa in 1926 at age 14, settling in Gary, a small section of town Iva Lee Haygood east of Ybor City. One Bell Celebrates 105. evening in late 1926, she met her future husband Rowland at a drug-store soda counter across from the Columbia restaurant. They married in 1927 in Ybor City and had twin daughters born in 1942 and another daughter in 1955. She and Roland were married for 56 years until his death in 1984. Her husband worked for the shipyards in Tampa and as a mechanic at the Hav-A-Tampa cigar factory before the family ran a feed and grocery store on Florida Avenue near Sulphur Springs. In addition to helping run the family stores, Iva Lee Bell rolled cigars for Hav-A-Tampa in the 1930s and later worked for Maas Brothers department store in Tampa. The family relocated to the growing Brandon community in 1953 and settled near Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and State Road 60. They opened Bell’s Grocery, and the business thrived off the two lane State Road 60, but when the road was

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widened around 1958, they lost parking frontage which resulted in a decline in business. They finally had to close the store in the early 1960’s. Bell currently lives in Brandon with her daughter Gloria. She visits the Bloomingdale West Recreation Center three or four times a week to do activities and socialize with her friends. Everyone wants to know her secret, but the Brandon resident is quick to admit she doesn’t have a magic formula for long life. She has been drinking coffee since the age of 5, has never had a specific exercise routine, and has never smoked nor tasted alcohol. She credits her children and grandchildren in keeping her active. Bell has loved to read all of her life and has always eaten smaller meals and enjoys vegetables. “I never took medicine,’’ Bell said. “Never been sick, didn’t have to. If I took medicine it probably would make me sick.’’ She has seen a lot of changes in her 105 years, but if asked, she doesn’t really give it a second thought.

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Volume 11, Issue 9

Brandon Edition

PDQ Brandon Serves Up Fresh Food, Fast, Gives Back to Community

By Tamas Mondovics

While there is no shortage of great restaurants in and around Brandon, for many residents there is that one, a favorite place that just hits the spot every time, let it be breakfast lunch or dinner. PDQ, a relatively new, Tampa based fast casual chain of chicken restaurants is just one of those places, now boasting of seeing a large number of repeat guests who enjoy fresh food, served fast. Owned by MVP Consulting, PDQ was founded in 2009 by Bob Basham and Nick Reader. Five years later, the chain has expanded, to 54 locations in eight states, the first in Tampa opened in 2011. Proud of taking the helm as Operating Director of PDQ’s Brandon location,134 S. Gornto Lake Rd., Jamie Hine spoke highly of his restaurants success and community involvement since its opening in the fall of 2014. “We are doing very well,” Hine said adding that in step with PDQ’s motto of “Just Made, Better” guests are enjoying the tastiest, freshest, made-from-scratch hand-breaded chicken tenders, made-to-order sandwiches, hand-tossed salads, hand-cut fries, hand-spun shakes. Sweet treats also include a variety of cookies; fresh baked, of course. To ensure quality, the restaurant has no microwaves. The chicken served is 100 percent natural and never frozen. Meals are complemented by a great variety of special sauces and dressings all made in-house, every day. Besides fresh cut fries, PDQ offers blueberry coleslaw and apples slices served with toffee dip. Restaurant guests can enjoy their meal inside, choosing to sit at brightly colored booths, tables, high-tops, several spots at the counter or enjoy outdoor seating under a

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Operating Director of PDQ chicken restaurant in Brandon, Jamie Hine, left, is joined by a few of the staff. Originally opened in 2014 and has been showing great success offering, simple menu of fresh food served fast, under its motto of “Just Made, Better.” wrap-around awing. For an extra personal touch at the drivethru window, guests are greeted by a real person taking the order not a speaker. Hine emphasized that aside from good food, PDQ wants to continue to be good neighbors as well. “We love giving back to the community,” he said. “Organizations such as schools, businesses and church groups are all welcome to schedule family fun nights at the restaurant. We will donate a portion of the proceeds back to their organization.” Hines specifically mentioned that the first Monday of every month is named Military Monday, which on that day, gives members of the armed forces 50 percent off the entire check. PDQ Brandon is open 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m, seven days a week. Counting on his repeat guests, Hine mentioned that the restaurant has a simple menu, but one that is evolving, and said, “As you come back, do look forward to new menu items to be added in the near future.” For more information and menu visit www.eatpdq.com.

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September 2016

Page 5

Brandon Edition

RELIGION

Pecan Sale, Craft Fairs, Speaker & More… Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com

Kick Up Your Heels At Brandon Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon

The Brandon Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon on Monday, October 10 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. will be a fun fall event, “Kick up your Heels”. This is a nondenominational luncheon for all ladies. No membership is required. It will take place at Bell Shoals Baptist Church in the Special Events Center, 2102 Bells Shoals Rd. in Brandon. The cost is $15 for lunch and entertainment. First time guests pay $10. A reservation is requested by Monday, October 3. Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for information.

United Methodist Women 46th Annual Pecan Sale

Hand-picked, shelled, and fresh from the orchard, pecans are available to order from Saturday, October 1-Tuesday, November 1. A five lb. box of mammoth halves or pieces cost $45. A one lb. bag of mammoth halves is $10. Specialty items include: chocolate amaretto pecans for $18; praline pecans for $16, and an assortment including praline, chocolate amaretto, and roasted salted pecans. To order, call Mary Baker at 6434493, email bjbrooks5@ gmail.com, or visit www.pecansale.com. Pick up is at New Hope United Methodist Church, 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon in the Social Hall. Pickup times

information and directions, please visit www.hpcbrandon.org.

are Saturday, November 12, and Monday, November 14, from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. This fundraiser benefits local missions such as ECHO, Mary and Martha House, A Kid's Place, and Brandon Life Care, and others.

Indoor Flea Market At Brandon Christian Church

Join The Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Tampa Walk to End Alzheimer’s is based at the Amalie Arena and is organized by the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the National Alzheimer’s Association. Registration is at 8 a.m. and walk at 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 5. Join the FPCB Team at www.act.alz.org/tampa. Find the team by name: First Presbyterian Church of Brandon. Choose to register or to donate if you are unable to walk. Registration is free. For more information, contact Judy Smolk at 643-9586 or judybelle@tampabay.rr.com.

Vendors Sought For Fall Craft Fair

The United Methodist Women at St. Andrew's are looking for vendors with crafts or gift items to apply for its Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, October 29 from 9a.m.-3 p.m. at the church located at 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Applications are available by calling 7778371 or mtrimble1@tampabay.rr.com.

Holy Innocent’s Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show

Holy Innocent’s Episcopal Church is hosting its 5h annual Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show on Saturday, November 5 from 9 a.m.-to 3 p.m. Over 70 vendors will be show casing and selling unique Dr. Amir Boules

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arts & crafts, novelties, and baked goods for the fall and winter seasons in Florida. The event will be held on the church grounds at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. Interested vendors can register for a spot on our web site at www.hiepiscopal.org. Any questions please contact the church during normal business hours at 6893130.

Michael Holley To Speak Highpoint Church In Valrico

Businessman, entrepreneur, author, and speaker Michael Holley, who recently announced his latest book Finding the Wisdom You Seek, will speak at HighPoint Church, 2207 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico on Sunday, September 25, at 10:30 a.m. His story is one of success, failure, bankruptcy, prison, persecution, cancer, survival, guardian angels, and ultimately resurgence into the faith and business communities. Holley’s first book spent its first week on the market on Amazon’s Top 100 Hottest New Releases. Copies of Finding the Wisdom You Seek and his first book Pinstripe Suits to Prison Blues are available at amazon.com or www.michaelholley.com/store. For more

Brandon Christian Church, at corner of Bryan and Lumsden Rds., is hosting its much anticipated Annual Indoor Flea Market on Saturday October 1, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, contact Ros at 813-6894021.

Scrapbooking for Missions

Bay Life Church announces its annual Fall Crop on Friday, October 7 from 6:30-11 p.m. and/or Saturday, October 8 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. benefiting 2017 youth activities and mission trips. Bring your own supplies to work on your paper crafting projects in a well-lit and fun atmosphere. Your registration fee is tax deductible, and includes continental breakfast, home cooked food, drinks and snacks all day, plus scrapbook/crop space, swap table, goody bags and door prizes. "Make and Take" stations, silent auction, raffle baskets and more. Sylvia Cuillo, from Photos Organized, will be available to scan photos for nominal fee (bring your photos and a thumb drive). Register and pay by October 3 for $25 for Friday night, $30 for Saturday, or $45 for both. Late registrations, late payments and walk-ins are welcome (space permitting) at $30 for Friday night, $35 for Saturday or $55 for both. Register online at www.baylife.org/scrapbooking. Space is not reserved until paid in full.

NOTICE OF PRACTICE CLOSURE • MAX F RATTES MD

Dear Patients, I am writing to inform you that effective October 1, 2016 I will be closing my medical practice. I will be joining Tampa General Medical Group (next to TGH). HEART AND VASCULAR INSTITUTE OF FLORIDA (DR. IRFAN SIDDIQUI )will continue to see patients at the present location. Medical records are con!idential and can only be transferred to another doctor with your written permission. Please let us know how you would like to receive your records. Please refer to the below information, effective October 1, 2016: Dr. Rattes’ new location: 5 Tampa General Circle STE. 300, Tampa, FL; Phone #: 813-251-0793 HEART AND VASCULAR INSTITUTE OF FLORIDA (DR. IRFAN SIDDIQUI): 310 w. Alexander St., Plant City, FL; Phone #: 813-7523456 It has been my extreme pleasure to be your physician. Feel free to reach out with any questions. Max F Rattes MD

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Page 6

Brandon Edition

MEETINGS Garden Clinic, Parkinson’s Support Group & More…

the American Revolution (DAR) joined the De Soto and Tampa Chapters of the NSDAR at Veterans Memorial Park and Museum of Hillsborough County to honor Vietnam Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, War veteran SMSGT Roy michelle@ospreyobserver.com Callow, US Air Force (Ret.), who was accompanied by his wife, 5th Annual Gifts & Crafts Fair at The Diana. DAR Regent Becky Johnston Bridges Seeking Local Vendors read the official letter from the President With the holidays approaching, shop- of the United States regarding the ping for unique gifts could not be easier Vietnam 50th Commemorative when you visit the 5th Annual Gifts & Anniversary. SMSGT Callow was preCrafts Fair on Saturday, October 8 from sented with the letter along with other 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at The Bridges Retirement items from the US Department of Community, 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Defense by DAR member, Laura Culver. Riverview. This one-stop holiday shopping event Friends of Mary features over 30 vendors. Whether it is & Martha House handcrafted decorations or personalized Walk, Run or gifts, such as jewelry and handbags, art, Strut To Raise candles, soaps, sweet treats and more, Awareness For you will find just what you are looking for. Domestic “Customers of all ages are invited to stop Violence by this free event to get a head start on This year on Saturday, October their shopping,” said Janet Noah, 1, Stepping Out Against Domestic Community Relations Liaison and event Violence Awareness Day, will be the coordinator. biggest event to date for Mary & Martha Interested vendors please contact House with more color, prizes, vendors, Janet at 413-8900 or jnoah@thebridgesb- and more fun for the entire family! vm.com. Registration begins at 8 a.m. DAR Honors with the color Vietnam War run/walk to start Veteran at 9 a.m. On Following the Thursday, Color run/walk, September 8, there will the local Alafia be food, live River chapter music, and much of the more. SMSgt Roy Callow with fellow Vietnam War vets was honored by DAR chapters at Veterans Daughters of Registration Memorial Park and Museum on September 8.

for the "Stepping Into Her Heels" event begins at 9:30 a.m. Race begins at 10:30 a.m. For more Information and to register, visit www.marymarthahouse.org/2ndAnnual-Stepping-Out-Against-DomesticViolence-5K-Color-WalkRun.

Strawberry Ridge Hosts The Berry Clay Pit Fall/Winter Ceramic Sale

The Berry Clay Pit Fall/Winter Ceramic Sale will be held on Saturday, October 8 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. It will take place at the Strawberry Ridge Mobile Home Park, located at 3419 SR 60 in Valrico. Follow the signs to the Activity Center. There will be one-of-a-kind items at very reasonable prices and all are made by the residents. There will be pieces for all holidays and many items for your yard and house. There will also be several raffles for surprise items that were donated.

Volume 11, Issue 9

Hillsborough at the Bloomingdale Regional Library. Jim Lange, who is running as the Democratic candidate for Florida’s 15th Congressional District, will be among the guest speakers at Democratic Women’s Club’s next meeting, Thursday, October 6, at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Contact 654-7464 for more information.

Riverview Garden Club Meets

The Riverview Garden Club will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, October 12 at 10 a.m. in the Riverview Civic Center, located at 11020 Park Dr., in Riverview. The guest speaker is Phil Elting of Elting's Exotic Plants. Parking is free and admission is free for first time attendees. For more information call Harriet at 813-727-6567.

Southern Company Chorus Seeks Women Singers

If you are a woman that loves to sing, Southern Company Chorus is an all woman a cappella barbershop group that is seeking additional singers. It meets With a rallyMondays from 6:45ing cry of “Clean 9:30 p.m. in the water is a basic human right,” Fellowship Hall in Bell John Heim, Shoals Church of founder of the Christ. Everyone is Southwest welcome to a practice Back row- Bob Schwandner, John Heim, Florida Clean Karen Kelly of SWFL CWM; Front row- Lotus on Monday night to lisPatton of SWFL CWM, and Liz Perkins, Water ten and even join in. Gwen Szafranski, Janet Corin, Merle Berg, Movement, gave Tracey Corn, and Fran Bodman of the DWC Visit www.southernan informative, companychorus.org. of SE Hillsborough. passionate, and For more info, email disturbing presentation at the September info@southerncompanychorus.org or call 8 meeting to members and guests of the Denise Padgett at 260-3983. Democratic Women’s Club of SE

Clean Water Activist Speaks Too Democratic Women

September 2016

Page 7

Brandon Edition

Hawthorne Assisted Living Facility to Host Annual Operation Medicine Cabinet

By Tamas Mondovics

HCSO Deputy Curtis Warren, and fellow deputies receive a large load of old and unwanted medication from five area assisted living facilities.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, is once again joining forces with local organizations to help residents properly dispense their unwanted and/or outdated prescription medications this month. The effort known as Operation Medicine Cabinet is a partnership between Home Instead Senior Care of Sun City, the Sheriff’s Office and a number of local area facilities that provide ideal locations as drop off spots. Operation Medicine Cabinet, is now scheduled for Thursday, October 8, 2016, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Hawthorne Village of Brandon Assisted Living Facility located at 859 West Lumsden Ave. The event will be held under the direction of Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office District 4, Gibsonton and Bloomingdale Community Resource Deputy Luke Hussey. Hussey was recently chosen to fill in for and, eventually permanently replace

Master Deputy Curtis Warren, who has served the Bloomingdale community as CRD since 2010, and who has been spearheading the drug take back events for a number of years. Warren is now out of the office for health reasons. Following in Warren’s footsteps, Hussey emphasized that expired or unwanted medication from households should never be disposed of by flushing them down the toilet or a drain. Since its inception in 2006, Operation Medicine Cabinet has collected close to 7,000 pounds of prescription drugs and medications, a number that will continue to grow. Home Instead Senior Care Franchise Owner Kristi Campbell put things in perspective during a recent drop off event when she said, “The message to our residents is pretty simple. It is about protecting both our elderly as well as our young residents, our families and our environment.” All drugs collected at each event are taken to a Hillsborough County hazardous waste collection site for incineration. To support the effort, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has also installed permanent drug drop-off boxes at its four patrol district offices. The drop-off boxes are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are the result of an application in 2012 by the Hillsborough County Anti Drug Alliance (HCADA) for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) to fund the project entitled "Hillsborough County Drug Take Back Initiative."

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Page 8

Volume 11, Issue 9

Brandon Edition

5th Annual Pink Your Pony Saddle Up For A Cure Trail Ride To Benefit Local Family

Halloween Horribles Parade At Center Place, A Longtime Community Tradition

Trails. All proceeds from this year's event will benefit Tammy Morningstar and her family. Morningstar is currently undergoing Join breast cancer survivor, treatment for Dawn Galia, and others at the 5th breast cancer Annual Pink Your Pony Saddle Up and is uninsured. For A Cure Trail Ride. This fun and 5th Annual Pink Your Pony Galia, who is Saddle Up For A Cure Trail unique event will be held on the Executive Ride, will be Saturday, Saturday, October 8 at Bay Lake Director of October 8 to benefit local business woman, Tammy Stables, owned by Gary and Cindy Center Place Morningstar and her family. Timbles. The stable is located at said, "This year I 4617 Garland Branch Rd. in Dover. was really thinking about what to do Cost to participate is just $15. Lunch, with the proceeds. I know how many which will be provided by Dragon Fire expenses you incur when going BBQ and others is just $5. Non-riders through something like this. Tammy can participate for $5 and everyone Morningstar is a member of the Valrico can get a t-shirt for $10. FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. As I In addition, local businesses and was contemplating what to do, I was individuals can become sponsors for as introduced to her and found out what little as $100. she and her family have been going There will be many amazing raffle through. It was then that I decided that items and silent auction items for both her family would receive the funding.” horse related and non-horse related This event has grown over the items. According to Galia, “My Raffle years. The first year, there were only Chair, Chris Black has outdone herself. 12 riders. At last year’s event there We have some great items.” were 80 horses and many non-riders. As the name of the event suggests, This is an event where the community riders are encouraged to "pink" their can come together and rally around a ponies. There will be prizes for the best woman and her family who have given decorated Pink Pony. For riders, there much to the community throughout the is a one and a half hour trail ride which years. For more info contact Galia at will take you along the Dover Road 841-1409 or djgalia@gmail.com.

Get a jump on Halloween this year and join fellow princesses, super heroes and ghosts at Center Place's 19th Annual Halloween Horribles Parade. This fun, family friendly event is set to take place on Sunday, October 30 beginning at 3 p.m. at Center Place located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. All children must be accompanied by an adult. In order to participate, children must have a ticket (cost $2) which must be purchased in advance. Tickets are available at Center Place. Costumed munchkins, and an accompanying adult, are invited to attend the 19th The parade line up begins at 2:30 Annual Halloween Horribles Parade on p.m. on the Center Place deck area. Sunday, October 30 at Center Place of The parade route from Center Place Brandon. The event is free but participants must have a ticket. will take participants down South Parsons Ave. past Brandon Regional children. There is no cost to be a venHospital and then back up Vonderburg dor, but each vendor must supply Dr. and ends back at Center Place. enough goodies for 500 children. If you The parade route is lined with venare interested in participating, please dors from the area's finest businesses contact Center Place at 685-8888 by and civic organizations who will have Friday, October 14. Halloween treats available for all of the Center Place was created by the costumed munchkins. community in 1976. For 40 years, According to Dawn Galia, Executive Center Place has been a central venue Director of Center Place, "Center that allows the community to come Place’s Halloween Horribles Parade is a together for fun events such as the very safe event for children. Each child Annual Halloween Horribles Parade, the leaves with a big bag of candy and Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and goodies. It gives them one more oppormore. Center Place, a non-profit organitunity to wear their costumes.” Galia zation, offers cultural enrichment opporadded, “We love to see all of the tunities for all ages through a variety of munchkins and how creative they can programs including original art exhibibe with their costumes. It is a wonderful tions, education and the performance of community event.” art. Vendors, local businesses and For more information, please visit organizations, line the parade route and www.centerplacebrandon.org or call give out candy, stickers or beads to the 685-8888.

By Kathy L. Collins

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Page 9

Brandon Edition

Immanuel Lutheran School To Host Role Playing Fantasy Group, Amtgard Family-Friendly Oktoberfest Barony Thrives at Local Park By Michelle Colesanti

Immanuel cotton candy and Lutheran School candy apples. (ILS) has been holdILS opened its ing its Oktoberfest doors for the first for 31 years providtime in September ing families with a 1980 with 72 stufun way to celebrate dents. Over the the fall season. years, classroom Once again ILS space has been invites the communiexpanded and a prety to enjoy the fun on school program Saturday, October started in 15 from 10 a.m.-2 2008. Today ILS prop.m. Entry is free, vides a quality but games and rides Christian education will require tickets, for students from which cost 50 cents preschool to 8th each. grade. Two sections As one of ILS’s The community is invited on Saturday, will separate the largest annual October 15 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. to younger children fundraisers, the Immanuel Lutheran School’s Oktoberfest. from the older ones. money raised helps Kids will get to enjoy car bash, bounce to fund school activities. houses, trampoline bungee, pony rides Chairperson Devon Woodward said, and a petting zoo. There will be a hair “I have three children. One is in college booth for wrapping and a hair spray color and he attended ILS from 6-8 grades. I booth. Entertainment will be held inside currently have one in middle school and along with many vendor booths. New this one child in second grade. ILS is a wonyear will be a foam pit and a live actual derful environment and many of my older Pacman game. son’s friends today are ones he made at A costume contest will be held at 12 ILS in middle school. I agreed to chair Noon with prizes for first, second and Oktoberfest because of my love for this third place winners. school. I think ILS is the best kept secret If you get hungry while enjoying the in Brandon. I love our Oktoberfest fun, you can try authentic German food. A because when we came to the school it local family has run the kitchen and cook- was a tiny school event. Today we have ing for this event for the last six years. grown the event and truly work every Hamburgers and hot dogs will also be year to make it bigger and better.” available. Indulge your sweet tooth at the ILS is located at 2913 John Moore bake sale or by purchasing snow cones, Rd. Visit www.ilsbrandon.com.

By Nick Nahas

Jessica Edler and her husband, Sean were playing baseball with their son at the park when they noticed people in interesting garb playing with foam swords and shields. The family’s curiosity took over. They introduced themselves to the group, and later found themselves joining them the next Sunday.

Goose (tall in blue and red), Bolt (baseball hat), Evil Russ (black and purple) and Vive (light grey and purple) poised for a skirmish.

Danielle Smith (left) and Breanna Edler doing some arts and crafts.

Amtgard is a Live Action RolePlaying (LARP) community focusing on medieval and fantasy sports and recreation with chapters all over the world, according to Edler. “It’s a lot of fun, when you think of it as your inner-kid going out there with a foam sword and playing,” she said. “It’s just something different to do to stay active, and I’m an artist and photographer, so it’s another outlet to be creative.” The Barony of Falling Fire, in the Kingdom of Neverwinter has been meeting every Sunday at 1 p.m. at Tony and Bertha Saladino Park since 1995. Activities include combat with foam swords and shields for those 14 and older, and arts and crafts. Others just come to hang out and socialize with the

group, as well as referee the action. Players are encouraged to expand their role within the group, and apply for office. Edler, also known as Lady Jae, is currently Regent of the chapter. “We welcome everybody,” she said. Every player at the park has a persona that they portray. They choose ingame names and wear original garb that they make on their own. Each person has a varying sigil (usually an animal), and colors specifically chosen for the character that they are depicting. Besides the social aspect, the group also raises money for a local charity like a food drive for ECHO of Brandon (Emergency Care Help Organization) in September raising just over $400. According to former King Kelbo, Anthony Malangone, groups around the country compete to see how much money each can raise for their charity. For more information visit www.amtgard.com.

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Brandon Edition

Volume 11, Issue 9

Tibby’s New Orleans Kitchen Brings The Big Easy To Brandon

John Henry Miller: 100 Years Strong, From Ice Trucks In Jamaica To Dominoes In Brandon

Manager with Tibby’s, Hillary West, “Tibby’s is not just about what you see, but how it makes you feel. It’s about expressing personality and character through food, music, art and heritage. It has the vibe of New Orleans funk in a very fun atmos“WHO-DAT” Cajun Blackened Chicken is one of the many special- phere. It is vibrant ty items found at Tibby’s New Orleans Kitchen. in expressions and true to its colors. It New Orleans may be 660 miles from reflects a social gathering that feeds the Brandon, but you won’t have to travel a soul. It’s not the New Orleans you may long distance to experience the vibe of have visited; it is the New Orleans that ‘The Big Easy’. local’s call home.” At recently opened Tibbys New “We are excited for this new location Orleans Kitchen in Brandon, you are in the Brandon community. There is so immediately immersed in the culture of much growth and development in this the city with its authentic artwork and area and we are confident that Tibby’s décor. Many of the pieces adorning the will become a staple in this community,” restaurant are from Mardi Gras floats. stated Wheeler. Come in and try the delicious creBoasting a full liquor bar, they are ations on Tibbys menu such as Shrimp currently in the process of finding a live Creole and Etouffee Shrimp or Crawfish. You can order specialties such as “WHO- band from the Brandon/Tampa area with that New Orleans Funk & Blues sound to DAT” Cajun Blackened Chicken; with its bring entertainment to this location. special Cajun seasonings along with Tibby’s also offers a private house lemon butter sauce, and served ‘Napoleon Room’ where you can host an over homemade Boudin grit cakes. The event for up to 40 people. blackened chicken has just the right zing Tibby’s New Orleans Kitchen is locatto it – not so spicy that you can’t enjoy ed at 1721 Brandon Blvd. For more info the wonderful flavors. and to view locations, visit Tibbys.com. According to Corporate Account

John Henry would be Miller’s diet. He Miller from the consumes greens and Hillsborough drinks aloe vera. Along County with that, Miller shared Bloomingdale Adult the recipe to his favorite Day Service Center dish that he produces in Brandon, celeevery Saturday. The dish brated his 100th consists of cornmeal, salt birthday. Miller confish, pepper, garlic, siders his firm belief onion, okra and tomain his faith and a toes. healthy diet as the With that in mind, he reasons behind his lives with his son and longevity. family. Miller attends the “I love the Lord Hillsborough County and pray to Him Bloomingdale Adult Day everyday to keep Service Center three me going,” Miller times a week and enjoys said. playing dominoes with Miller was born his friends. He joined the in Manchester, organization in 1998 and Jamaica. He began recommends individuals working at a young to go to there. age on a farm until John Henry Miller enjoys his day at “We get taken care of the center. his sister sent for here and the people who him. He started working at an ice facwork at the center are nice,” Miller tory at the age of 23 in Kingston, said. Jamaica. Miller served ice and blocks The mission of the center is to from the truck for many years. He met coordinate essential health and wellthe love of his life Mavis Corrida Miller ness services for older adults through in Kingston, and the couple were maran emphasis on the seven dimensions ried for 60 years. Unfortunately, she such as physical, emotional, intellectupassed away in 2005. al, social, spiritual, environmental and He worked at the ice factory until financial. 1974. In 1975, his entire family reloFor more information, visit cated to the United States for a better www.hillsboroughcounty.org/aging. It is life. The Miller’s lived in New York until located at 3940 Canoga Park Dr. in 1995 and moved to Florida due to Brandon. Hours of operation are health reasons. Monday through Friday 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Another secret to his longevity Call 330-7964.

By Michelle Colesanti

By Tatiana Ortiz

September 2016

Page 11

Brandon Edition

Southeastern Guide Dogs Opens New Student Center

By Tatiana Ortiz

house visually impaired students and veterans during their 26-day on campus training, as well as provide office space for support staff and volunteers. This 30,865 sq. ft. climate-controlled interior place and 5,503 sq. ft. covered exterior features 12 private student rooms, a dining hall, training facilities and much more. It will serve more than 550 students and graduRibbon cutting was held in September for the grand ates as well as welcoming opening of the Barpal-Hirst Student Center at tens of thousands of visitors. Southeastern Guide Dogs in Palmetto. (l-r): Chief The existing student dorExecutive Officer Titus Herman, lead donors Isaac and Margaret Barpal, lead donor Keith G. Hirst and Board mitory administrative building Chair Tim Griffy. began as a two-story bedroom home more than 32 The wait for a new student center at years ago. Many renovations occurred Southeastern Guide Dogs in Palmetto, in response to the organization’s growth, came to a close. Southeastern Guide but the general building maintenance Dogs celebrated the grand opening of exceeded its effectiveness over time. their new Barpal-Hirst Student Center, With the lack of space and too small of which broke ground in March 2015. a building, lead into the development of Sarasota residents Margaret and Isaac the Barpal-Hirst Student Center. Now Barpal and Keith G. Hirst are the lead donors. Together they pledged $3 million two people with dogs can pass side-byside with the 8ft. hallways. towards the project. Former student Suzy Wilburn “We took on a theme of growth and shared her excitement about the center we want to see Southeastern Guide and how the program changed her life. Dogs as an organization with a great Wilburn has Stargardt disease, which future. In fact, the organization knows effects her vision. She works as its what it wants to do 50 years from now,” Director of Admissions and Student Hirst said. Services. In 1982, Southeastern Guide Dogs For more information visit became established. Along with that, the www.guidedogs.org. It is located at 4210 new $8.5 million student center resides 77th Street East in Palmetto. Hours of on 33-acres in Palmetto. The non-profit operation are Monday through Friday 8 organization operates through donors a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Call 941-729-5665. and private funding. The facility will

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Page 12

Brandon Edition

Community Roundtable To Offer Community Service Forum At Brandon High School

By Kathy L. Collins

Students in Hillsborough County need service hours for many reasons including graduation requirements, college applications and scholarships. Similarly, volunteers are often the life blood for many local non-profits. In an effort to help students get the hours they need and non-profits the volunteers they need, the Community Roundtable is holding a Community Service Forum on Thursday, September 29 at Brandon High School located at Photo courtesy Steve Nickeron 1101 Victoria St. in Brandon. The event Students needing community service hours can attend the Community Roundtable’s will take place from 6-8 p.m. and free to Community Service Forum on Thursday, all who wish to attend. The event will be September 29 at Brandon High School. taking place on the same evening as College Night. service hours, so this is a natural fit.” Janine Nickerson, the president of The Community Roundtable will be the Community Roundtable said, “The holding another Community Service mission of the Community Roundtable is Forum in the spring so that students to assist all of the non-profits in the matriculating from eighth grade to ninth greater Brandon area. The Community can begin their volunteer hours during Service Forum provides an opportunity the summer. for local non-profits to showcase their Nickerson said, “Parents have literalorganization’s purpose. It also allows stu- ly come up to us to give us a hug for prodents and adults to meet with the local viding information about the local opporcharities and gain an understanding of tunities for service hours. Students their goals.” appreciate knowing about neighborhood The first Community Service Forum non-profits. If the purpose of requiring was held in November 2013 at service hours is to ignite the spark of volBloomingdale High School and attracted unteerism, then showcasing the variety a record number of students and nonof non-profits in our community will help profits. students find something that touches Nickerson added, “This is the first their hearts thus creating life-long voluntime we are holding the Community teers.” Service Forum in conjunction with The Community Roundtable is an College Night. Since students will be all-volunteer organization that has been gathering information for choosing their serving the greater Brandon community college, many will be seeking scholarfor nearly 60 years. ships as well. The Bright Futures For more information, visit www.comScholarship program requires volunteer munityroundtable.org.

Volume 11, Issue 9

Support Community Charities At Newland Communities Annual Concerts For A Cause

By Michelle Colesanti

Newland Communities will once again hold its Concerts for a Cause at FishHawk Ranch and Waterset.

Everyone is invited to come out and enjoy the lovely fall evenings listening to free live music while helping to make a difference in the community. Once again, Newland Communities will hold its annual Concerts for a Cause at both FishHawk Ranch in Lithia and in Waterset, located in Apollo Beach. These popular concerts will support Seeds of Hope, a non-profit organization founded by FishHawk Ranch resident Leda Eaton, and Feeding America Tampa Bay, the area’s leading food bank. Also this year, donations will help to support Newsome High School Band’s March to Macy’s. When you come to enjoy the bands, please bring a non-perishable food item to help area families who are in need. During the fall concerts last year, over 17,000 meals were collected. "Our Concerts for a Cause have become one of the most popular events in the area, attracting not just residents, but neighbors from surrounding communities as well. Each

year, we’re overwhelmed with the generosity of our concertgoers who realize the need for meals in our community and always step up to the challenge while enjoying an evening of great music," said Lynda McMorrow, marketing manager at Waterset by Newland Communities. Some of the best bands in the Bay area will perform. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. FishHawk Ranch concerts will be held in Central Park at 14215 Barrington Stowers Dr. in Lithia on Saturday nights from 6-9 p.m.: September 17 - Eye Candy, October 1 – Raydio, October 16 – Frequency, October 29 – Fall Festival featuring Lovestruck Robot, and November 5 – C’Nergy. Waterset concerts will be held Friday nights from 6-9 p.m. at The Lakeside, 7250 Parkshore Dr. in Apollo Beach: September 16 – Lovestruck Robot, September 23 – Raydio, September 30 – Frequency, October 7 – C’Nergy, October 14 – Eye Candy. On Saturday, October 22 Waterset will hold its Fall Festival featuring Stormbringer from 6-9 p.m. Visit concerts4cause.com or www.newlandcommunities.com.

September 2016

Page 13

Brandon Edition

By Tamas Mondovics

Panhandler Arrest Finds Gun, Drugs and Credit Cards Brandon area panhandlers carrying sings that read something along the lines of, "Homeless, Need Help, Thanks and God Bless,” are not uncommon and may understandably pull the heart strings of some passing motorists. However, the fact that things are not always what they seem became quite clear recently, In response to complaints of panhandling and interrupting traffic, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s when Hillsborough Community Resource Deputies arrested James Edward County Sheriff’s Office Williams Jr. who had a “Homeless, Need Help…” sign. District 2 Community distribution with an estimated street value Resource Deputies came across James of $1,000. Edward Williams Jr., in the area But, there was more. Williams was of Gornto Lake Road and Causeway also in possession of several credit cards Blvd in Brandon. and identification cards belonging to other According to the Sheriff’s Office, the people. Detectives are following up on the deputies conducted proactive patrols in credit and identification cards to deterthe area, in response to a number of complaints into persons interrupting traffic mine how they were obtained. Williams is now off the street, as they panhandle for money. Upon coming in contact with Williams charged with: Possession of Cannabis, Controlled Substance within 1,000 feet of Jr. deputies first learned that he had outConvenience, Possession of Drug standing warrants for Violation of Paraphernalia Felon in Possession of a Probation for several narcotics related offenses and was then taken into custody Firearm (2 counts) and Violation of Probation (2 counts). While discussion without incident. about the legality of the practice, in 2011 Williams, however, had a bit more to share. Deputies said that their panhandler commissioners voted 6-1 to ban panhandling on county and state roads throughwas also carrying, a Cobra .32 cal. handout Hillsborough County. For info, please gun, along with ammunition, as well as a visit www.hcso.tampa.fl.us. marijuana packaged in for sale and/or

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Brandon Edition

SCHOOLS Book Sale At Bloomingdale Library, Support Group For Parkinson’s & More…

Volume 11, Issue 9

Academy of the affected by Parkinson’s Performing Arts at Disease. Music Showcase, Hawthorne Health & 402 Oakfield Dr. in Rehabilitation Center, locatBrandon. This fun ed at 851 West Lumsden and interactive Rd. in Brandon, is a skilled workshop allows nursing facility with inpatient Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, children to hear and outpatient rehabilitation michelle@ospreyobserver.com and see band and programs including speech, orchestral instruphysical and occupational ments like the flute, therapies. Hawthorne also trumpet, tuba, or violin and they hosts a dementia support Third Annual Bloomingdale High group in its assisted living Alumni Tailgate and Business Expo get to try them out themselves. Kids will also make an instrument facility, as well as past The Bloomingdale High School that they get to take home along meetings for those dealing Academic Foundation will be hosting with a goody bag. with strokes, diabetes, low the third annual Alumni Tailgate The Music Makers Workshop vision and other diseases. on Friday, October 14 from 5-7:30 will take place on “We are committed to p.m. in the Bloomingdale High School Saturdays, October 8, quality care to providing parking lot. There will be a bouncy and November 12. The Workshop Brandon,” said Vernon house for the kids, face painting, DJ, is free, but you must register in Zeger, Executive Director of and much, more. Alumni T-shirts for advance by visiting faopa.org. Hawthorne. “One of our prisale, yearbooks from all of the past orities is to provide the comclasses will be for sale. Local business This is Jessie, a sweet and loving girl, who is approximately 3 Special Giant Book Sale At munity with valuable informawill be set up for you to visit. Attendees old. She has a cute, permanent head tilt, probably from tion that can improve their Bloomingdale Regional Library years are encouraged to attend the a prior inner ear infection, but it doesn't slow her down. She daily lives when dealing with The Friends of the Homecoming Football game afterneeds a wonderful ‘fur’ever home. If you are interested in adopting Jesse, please call 657-7078 or email these diseases.” Bloomingdale Regional Library will wards, where there will be special catcallfl@gmail.com. Parkinson’s disease is a be holding a Giant Book Sale recognition for Bloomingdale Alumni. located just east of Bloomingdale High chronic and progressive movement dison Saturday, September 24 in the Businesses can rent a booth for School on Bloomingdale Ave. For order that affects nearly one million room and Bookstore area of McLean $40. Proceeds will benefit the more information, please call the library Americans. The disease, on average, the Bloomingdale Library from 10 a.m.Bloomingdale High School Academic at 273-3652. appears around 60 years old, but 5-10 4 p.m. Foundation, which works to enhance percent of cases are early-onset, All bookstore items will be marked the learning experience for students by Hawthorne Hosts New Brandon beginning before age 50. As the disdown and specially priced for inventory adding more technology in the classParkinson’s Disease Support Group progresses, it can severely affect ease reduction on this day only. There’ll be rooms. Donations are Health & Rehabilitation Hawthorne balance, eating, talking, and most daily a wide assortment of books, CDs and welcome. Contact Becky McDaniels at Center will host a new monthly support activities. DVDs available for purchase, all at Brandon@mathnasium.com or group for those who are diagnosed The support group is free and very reasonable prices. If you’re Michelle Hernandez at with Parkinson’s Disease and their to those who have been diagopen searching for holiday materials – we’ve Mhernandez@alpha-omegatitle.com. caregivers. The first meeting is schednosed with the disease, their family got a huge selection of those also. uled for Wednesday, October 19 at 2 members, caregivers and anyone with Stop in and browse and you may find Music Makers At Music Showcase p.m. Physical, speech and occupationan interest in learning more about just what you’re looking for. Calling all Mini-Musicians! Children al therapists will discuss treatment for Parkinson’s. For more information, call All proceeds from the sale provide ages 4-10 can attend a free workshop issues related to balance, swallowing, 661-8998 ext. 204 or visit on funding for library programs. on the second Saturday of every talking and other skills that can be Facebook. Bloomingdale Regional Library is month from 9:30-11a.m. by The Florida

October 21, 2016 6-8PM

September 2016

Coach Bag Bingo To Raise Funds For Sylvia Thomas Center

By Kathy L. Collins

also be a 50/50 raffle and a silent auction. Guests will have the chance to win items from local businesses such as A Caring Touch Skin Care, jewelry donated by Deborah Williams with Parklane, a gift certificate from Salons by JC and a healthy food basket donated by Bodyworks Health & Wellness Center. All of the designer bags have been Support the Sylvia Thomas Center by attending Coach donated. Companies can Bag Bingo on Tuesday, October 18 at The Regent. also put information on their The Sylvia Thomas Center, a local business in the bags for a donation of non-profit which provides comprehensive $100. post adoption support to keep the “forevThe Sylvia Thomas Center provides er” in forever families, is holding its comprehensive case management, supAnnual Coach Bag Bingo on Tuesday, port groups, counseling and education for October 18. The event will be held at The foster and adoptive families in Regent located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Hillsborough County. Chiarenza said, Riverview. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and “While foster and adoptive families are the games will begin promptly at 7 p.m. ready to open their hearts and homes to Tickets to this event are $35 per perchildren, it often takes more thank love to son per ticket with only 200 tickets availhelp a child overcome trauma.” That is able. All proceeds from the event benefit what the Sylvia Thomas Center strives to the Sylvia Thomas Center. do, and they do it with a small staff and The night will include food, drink and team of volunteer interns from the Bingo with a twist. Pearl Chiarenza, comUniversity of South Florida. Since its munity liaison for the Sylvia Thomas inception in 2000, the Sylvia Thomas Center said, “There is a lot more satisfac- Center has assisted 6,000 families. tion in yelling ‘bingo’ when the prize is a For more information and to purbrand new Coach designer bag. This chase tickets to the Coach Bag Bingo, game comes with a disclaimer to the contact Chiarenza at 449-3308 or stop by moms: If you win, you will probably have Salons by JC located at 3448 Lithia to share your purse with your daughter.” Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico Tuesday through In addition to the chance to win a Saturday or call the Sylvia Thomas designer purse from Coach, there will Center at 651-3150.

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Page 15

Brandon Edition

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Page 16

Volume 11, Issue 9

Brandon Edition

COUNTY Job Fair & or Nominations FFame en’s Hall Of WomCompiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com

and open to the public. For more information call Astrid Mosterd at CareerSource Tampa Bay at 397-2090 or email Astrid at mosterda@careersourcetampabay.com.

County Fair Welcomes New Wonderland Of Lights Drive Thru This Holiday Season

By Christine Michaels

ment sure to please all. Take time to stop at the Christmas village featuring horsedrawn wagon rides, North Pole train ride, amusement rides, food and crafts. The show is produced by Massachusettsbased North Pole Productions, known for its shows in Branson, Missouri and other locations across the country. "We are excited about the return of a Christmas light drive thru. Ideally this attraction appeals to all ages and one of the most popular fairgrounds events," said Tom Umiker, fair manager. Tickets for the drive thru can be purchased at www.brandonchamber.com under the events tab. Prices are: Vehicles (up to eight passengers) $20; Season's Pass $35 (vehicles only); Coaches, Limos, Mini Vans (nine to 24 seating) $35; Motor Coaches (25 to 50 seating) $75. Hold your company or organizations holiday party in the fairgrounds’ air-conditioned exhibit hall. The fairgrounds is taking reservations now to secure the most economical rates. The location is perfect for a daytime holiday party, or a nighttime party combined with the Wonderland of Lights show. For reservations, contact the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds at 737-3247 or www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com.

Nominations Now Open For 2017 Hillsborough County Women’s Hall Of Fame

Commisioner Sandy Murman’s The Hillsborough County County Job Fair Commission on the Status of Women is

Hillsborough County Commissioner SandyMurman, in association with CareerSource Tampa Bay and Hillsborough Community College, will be hosting a County Job Fair on Friday, October 7 from 8:30 a.m. - 12 Noon at the HCC Dale Mabry Campus, 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., in Tampa. Employers are encouraged to participate. Visit www.sandymurman.com for employer/vendor information. More than 50 employers and vendors participated last year, some of whom interviewed potential employees on the spot, while others provided online links to jobs. In addition, larger companies such as Amazon, Coca-Cola and Hillsborough County Public Schools were present at the event to offer employment opportunities. In a survey taken by CareerSource Tampa Bay, which asked for feedback on the event, 90 percent of the employers and vendors who completed the survey rated spending money at local businesses, and the economy continues to improve,” said Commissioner Murman. “It’s still critical that we get people back to work,” Murman added. The 2016 County Job Fair is free

now accepting nominations for the 2017 Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was created in 2011 to honor and celebrate the achievements of Hillsborough County women who have made significant contributions in areas such as business, education, philanthropy, the military, and public service to improve the lives of residents of Hillsborough County. Since its inception, the Commission on the Status of Women has recognized and honored 24 notable women through induction into the Women’s Hall of Fame. All Women’s Hall of Fame inductees are permanently recognized with a plaque displayed at the Tampa Convention Center. The Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Luncheon is scheduled for March 24, 2017, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Tampa Convention Center. Nomination and sponsorship forms are available at HCFLGov.net/COSW or by contacting Renee Warmack at warmackr@hillsboroughcounty.org or 276-2640. Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Monday, October 31. Sponsorship applications will be accepted through 5 p.m. on March 3, 2017.

The Wonderland of Lights Drive Thru will take place at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds this year.

This coming holiday season, Brandon will be the home of The Wonderland of Lights Drive Thru at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, conveniently located just east of Brandon. This premier holiday light show and winter festival will be a spectacular celebration and brings back a family holiday tradition that so many have grown to love. The Drive Thru will open Thanksgiving Night, November 24 and run through Saturday, December 31. It will be open from 6-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The Greater Brandon Chamber is excited to be a partner in bringing a holiday light show back to eastern Hillsborough County. The chamber and its Military Affairs Committee, along with the Greater Hillsborough County Fair Association will receive a portion of the proceeds to fund needed programs and services for eastern Hillsborough. This 38–day event incorporates beautiful animated and still light displays that will dazzle the young and “the young at heart.” It will offer a blend of fun, family activities and entertain-

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Page 17

Brandon Edition

We Buy C ins By Nicole Heubusch

We also buy Stamp Collections, Proof Sets, Postcards, and Foreign Coins

How Can Your HOA Use Your Newsletter To Promote Community Involvement? Typically, most homeowners associations (HOA) provide residents with a community newsletter. It can be weekly, bimonthly, or even monthly, as long as it provides a source of communication. It is one of the most effective ways an HOA can communicate with residents about sponsored activities, upcoming events, or just general community news and updates. If you feel that your attendance levels are low, there might be a lack of awareness about ongoing events. In that case, here are a few simple ways to get residents excited about reading their HOA newsletter.

Promote, Promote, Promote

Promote all your events. Whether a community garage sale, a networking event, a movie night, or even a big holiday event, residents won’t show up if they don’t know something is happening. Create a calendar section in your newsletter that includes a recap of last month, so residents can see what they might have missed, and add all the events for the upcoming month.

Provide HOA Updates And Board Decisions

Is there something big happening with the HOA board? Did you get the approval for pool renovations, or to

Buy • Sell • Estimates • Appraisals

plant those new trees that residents wanted? Whatever it is that’s going on with the board, your residents might be interested in knowing. Provide the information on board meetings too, when and where, in case residents would like to attend.

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Contests are a great way to get the community involved. It could be something fun like a newsletter crossword puzzle, or even have residents take a picture of something in the community to send in for next month. Contests are especially helpful when trying to promote an event. Give away tickets to the event, or a prize during; that’s a good way to ensure a higher attendance.

Get Residents Involved

Allow your residents to have a voice in the newsletter. Ask for them to share ideas and activities for the newsletter, address their complaints in the newsletter, or even recruit a few residents to write a guest article. If you have any tips for promoting community involvement with your HOA newsletter, or any news from your HOA that you want published in the Osprey Observer, send them to nicoleh@ospreyobserver.com to be featured in an upcoming HOA article.

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JOIN OUR TEAM! DESIGN CENTER ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Budget Blinds and Inspired Drapes of Brandon is currently seeking full time and part time administrative assistants for our new showroom in Riverview, FL.

Budget Blinds, nationally, is the number one window covering franchise in North America. Locally, due to significant growth Budget Blinds of Brandon is currently the 12th largest franchise out of 1040 Budget Blinds franchises in the United States, Canada and Mexico. We are currently seeking administrative assistants to join our team. We are looking for hard working, detail oriented individuals whose main focus is providing exemplary customer service and interested in growing a team oriented, family owned and operated business. Salary is based on experience. If interested please email resume and a brief introduction to bbdesigncenter@budgetblinds.com

Page 18

Volume 11, Issue 9

Brandon Edition

Annual Golf Tournament Helps Provide Funding For A Kid’s Place, Seeks Donors

By Kathy L. Collins

and more. Sponsorships and participation start at $500. All funds raised will benefit A Kid’s Place and their Siblings Connected Program. By supporting A Kid’s Place at the golf tournament, you will help provide a safe and loving home for siblings as well as on site medical, dental and therapeutic services to children in need. Mary Berg, resource specialist for A Kid’s Place said, “Foster children are truly our community’s most vulnerable children, and this golf tournament is a way to raise funds and support the programs at A Kid’s Place. We help foster Join others in helping raise funds for A Kid’s Place children from all over the greater by participating in their 5th Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, October 17 at Avila Golf and Country Tampa Bay area.” Club in Tampa. A Kid’s Place is a unique, state of the art 60 bed facility. Join others in helping raise funds for Children who live there range in age from A Kid’s Place, a local non-profit that pronewborn until the age out of the foster vides foster care and a loving home for care system at 18 years old. Since it abused, neglected or abandoned chilopened in 2009, A Kid’s Place has providdren, by participating in their 5th Annual ed a home to 1,100 children and has Golf Tournament. The tournament will be assisted over 479 families. The unique held on Monday, October 17 at Avila Golf aspect of A Kid’s Place is that siblings can and Country Club located at 943 stay together in a home like environment. Guisando De Avila in Tampa. A Kid’s Place has become a beloved The fun begins with registration and institution in the greater Brandon area, lunch at 11 a.m. and shotgun start at and this is your opportunity to help raise 12:30 p.m. The tournament will follow a much needed funds. Shamble format. During play, there will be For more information on sponsorseveral contests including closest to the ships and participation, contact Samantha pin, longest drive and putting contests. Mellen at 381-3839 or smellen@akidYou could win prizes including gift certifisplacetb.org. For more information on A cates to local restaurants, a Vizio Kid’s Place and other ways you can help, Flatscreen television, $500 gift cards to visit www.adkidsplacetb.org. Malio’s Prime Steakhouse, Titlest drivers

By Tamas Mondovics

Capsized Boat on Alafia Reminds Boaters to Stay Alert and Safe While on the Water Marking the unofficial end of the summer season, Labor Day has once again saw plenty of boaters taking time to enjoy local rivers, such as the Little Manatee and Alafia. While, safety is always a top priority, thanks Hermine, the fist hurricane that made landfall in Florida in 11 years, extra caution on local waterways was never more timely. The storm turned north of Tampa Bay ahead of the holiday weekend, but did not go unnoticed. As the rain fell, boating became more dangerous and kept local law enforcement, fire rescue and first responders busy. One example was a 911 call about a capsized boat on the Alafia involving four individuals, two of whom had reportedly swam to shore, while the others were missing. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue crews responded to the scene with rescue boat 17. The Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office provided its aviation unit and a boat to assist in the search. During the search, one of the missing boater was located further down the river after swimming to a dock. Things got a bit more alarming when rescue personnel were told that the yet missing boater was not able to swim. Fire Rescue crews along with HCSO eventually located the fourth victim in the water, grasping a tree limb in very strong currents, courtesy of the flood staged river. HCSO deputies pulled the victim onto their boat and took the victim to a nearby boat ramp for medical evaluation.

According to HCSO Public Information Officer Larry McKinnon, the victims told rescuers that they were going up river fighting a strong current when they tried to turn around, at which time their boat struck a branch and overturned. “None on board the boat were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident,” McKinnon said adding that the incident ended without a loss of life, but not before reminding boaters to follow basic safety steps, including the wearing of a life jacket. Aside from boating accidents, a recent USA Swimming Foundation data through Labor Day shows that there were 205 fatal child drownings in swimming pools and spas nationwide during summer 2016 (May 28-September 5). So far this year, in Florida, 31 fatal child drownings had been reported, the Foundation said while drawing attention to the importance of following basic safety tips and safe boating guidelines prior to getting in or on the water. For more information or safety tips please visit, http://www.poolsafely.gov.

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September 2016

Brandon Edition

Page 19

September 2016

Brandon Edition

Page 20

Brandon

September 2016

Volume 11, Issue 9

Ph: 657-2418

InThis Section

...................PG 25

.........................PG 28 CHALKLINES..........................................PG 31 SPORTS CONNECTION...................PGS 32‐33 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT....................PG 34

Your Pet Will Enjoy The Best In Pet Care At Puppy Palace

Owner Jennifer Conda Berry created Puppy Palace of South Tampa 13 years ago, providing the best pet care experience to A ribbon cutting was recently held by the Greater Brandon its guests and Chamber of Commerce to welcome Brandon Puppy Palace to the neighborhood. piece of mind to their owners. “We There will be a number of local venare very excited to bring our pet care dors for shopping, along with wine, concept to Brandon,” said Berry. cheese, hors 'doeuvres, pampering Located at 802 E. Lumsden Rd., the and fun. Call 654-7121 to RSVP for 12,000 sq. ft. climate-controlled pet you and your friends. HealthSource resort includes doggy daycare, spaChiropractic is cious overnight dog and cat boarding located at 166 and suites, an indoor dog park and E. small and large dog outdoor play Bloomingdale areas. Dog and cat grooming services Avenue, Ste. B are also available. in Brandon. Puppy Palace of Brandon is open Monday through Friday 7 a.m.–7 Technology p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.–4 p.m. It is WIN! Hosts open seven days a week for pick-up. Ribbon Visit www.tampapuppypalace.com or Cutting call 530-0920. Ceremony

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HealthSource Chiropractic will host its third annual Ladies Night Out on Tuesday, October 11 from 6- 8 p.m.

development opportunities for members of the educational community. Call Technology WIN! at 863-354-0849 to find out what it can do to help your school. It is located at 3439 Brook Crossing Drive in Brandon. Visit www.technologywin.com. Photo by Ed Booth, Huth and Booth Photography uBreakiFix Opens New Store in Brandon.

WIN!’s new office. Henry and Julie Burroughs were thrilled to have their friends and networking families present for this big event. With the new office space, there are several flexible meeting areas where training sessions and one-on-one conferences will be hosted. Technology WIN! works with school community’s administration, faculty and staff, parents and students to Photo by Bryan Reith, Aflac The help get today's Technology WIN! Hosts Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Greater latest technology Riverview in the hands of teachers and students Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) in affordable, easy and secure ways. It recently made a trip to Brandon to celalso offers learning and professional ebrate the opening of Technology

10/31/2016

uBreakiFix Opens New Store in Brandon

Members of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce and the Valrico Fishhawk Chamber were recently took part in a ribbon cutting for uBreakIFix’s new location in Brandon at Regency Square. At uBreakiFix they have seen it all - from smart phones run over by a car, to tablets that have taken a dive in a pool, and are prepared to face anything that comes its way. Every uBreakiFix technician goes through an intensive training process, and they maintain an environment of constant learning, so no device is too new, no technology too complicated. It is located at 2492 W Brandon Blvd. next to the AMC movie theater. Call 324-8342 or visit www.ubreakifix.com.

Continued on next page

Page 22

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

By Michelle Colesanti

Topper’s Creamery 13th Location Now Open At Westfield Shopping Center

The Brandon Town Center, a Westfield Shopping Mall, is the site of the newest Topper’s Creamery. At 218sq. ft., the specific location is convenient to the east entrance and adjacent to retailers such as Zales Jewelers, The Children’s Place, Finish Line, and Kay Jewelers, among others. Topper’s Creamery Chairman and Co-Founder Wade Oney, also owns more than 50 Papa John’s locations as well as eight Qdoba stores. Oney is a former Chief Operating Officer for Papa John’s Pizza. “We are very pleased to have opened today at the Brandon Town Center,” Oney said. “This is almost a natural fit for us geographically, bridging our Valrico store and the new location in Riverview. Visit http://topperscreamery.com for more information on Toppers Creamery.

Breast Cancer Fundraisers at Music Showcase

Music Showcase is once again taking nominations for local currently undergoing treatment breast cancer patients to be the recipient of its month long fundraising efforts in October. Baked Goods and popcorn will be available all month for donations of $1-$5 each. The recipient will be announced at the Costume Social on Friday, October 28, 6–10 pm. Visit musicshowcaseonline.com or call 685-5998 and ask for Debra Campos or Paula Gaskins to nominate someone to be a recipient or for more information.

perate need of dental work, to help with the pain and get hygiene cleanings. Dr. Bynum, his staff, volunteers from his church and often other dentist, usually see 75-100 patients that day. He recently went to Nicaragua with his family to provide dental work for those that need it so desperately. If you, or someone you know is in need of dental work, visit Five Star Dental, on October 22.

Mathnasium Trimathlon Tests Grades 2-5 Math Skills While Giving Back To Community

Brandon students can test their math skills while raising funds for local schools. Mathnasium’s Annual TriMathlon is a community event designed to encourage kids in grades 2 to 5 to engage in math while giving back to schools. It will donate money to local schools on behalf of TriMathlon participants, targeting an aggregate donation of about $40,000 throughout the U.S. The TriMathlon consists of three events: Magic Squares; students develop their own math problems. The Counting Game tests students’ ability to count from any number, to any number, by any number, and Mental Math Workout. The competition will be held on Saturday, November 5 at the Brandon Mathnasium Learning Center, 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. To register or for more information, please contact Becky McDaniels, owner of the Brandon Mathnasium center at 655-6284, brandon@mathnasium.com, or visit www.mathnasiumtrimathlon.com.

Medical Facility Evening Social Opens Doors to Community and Highlights Foundations

The Brandon Foundation is grateful to the Florida Cancer Specialists & “Day of Care” for Research Institute for people who need dental hosting an evening work will be social and open held Saturday, October Five Star Dental house on August 16. 22 beginning at 7 a.m. at Members of the Brandon community Five Star Dental, 3203 Lithia Pinecrest enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and wine and Rd. in Valrico. were given a tour of the new facility Dr. Jeff Bynum has been in busilocated at 403 Kings Ave. ness for 20 years, and has provided a Guests met Dr. Shalin Shah, “Day of Care” to the community for Monica Clark, Senior Physician Liaison many years. This is for people in des-

“Day of Care” Will Be Held At Five Star Dental

Volume 11, Issue 9

Brandon Edition

and the rest of the team of doctors, nurses and staff. Dr. Shah discussed the various ways the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation helps individuals affected by cancer with financial support and how the Brandon Foundation was able to provide assistance to one of their patients through the Foundation Angel Program. Brandon Foundation Executive Director, Liz Brewer also shared with members of the staff and the community how the Foundation Angel program has been able to help over 400 families since its inception in 2006 by providing them with “Angels” to meet their practical needs. Commissioner Stacy White also spoke about how important this partnership is to our community to help our residents in their time of need. The Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute will be one of the sponsors of the Foundation’s annual dinner, An Evening of Hope & Charity Check Presentation to be held on Friday, November 4 at The Regent. For more information about the Brandon Foundation, visit www.BrandonFoundation.com

Help For Quitting Tobacco

Quitting tobacco isn't easy. Finding help should be. Tobacco Free Florida offers free tools and services to help you get started. In September, free community, worksite and clinic groups will be offered, with programs covering all forms of tobacco. Free Nicotine replacement patches, gum and lozenges will be available, while supplies last and if medically appropriate. Classes will be available on Monday, October 17 at 5:30 p.m. at the Oakfield Medical Plaza, 276 S. Moon Ave, Ste. 260 in Brandon. Pre-registration is required by calling 974-7889. Visit www.ahectobacco.com/calendar.

Pure Barre Brandon Opens

Pure Barre is the nation’s fastest, most effective, yet safest way to change your body. In just 55 minutes, achieve a full-body workout concentrating on the areas women struggle with the most: hips, thighs, seat, abdominals and arms. The Pure Barre technique is low-impact, protecting joints by avoiding any bouncing or jumping. Each strength section of the workout is folLiving Well lowed by a Christian stretching secDaycare tion in order to Grand create long, Opening lean muscles A new child without bulk. care facility, The technique Living Well works to defy Christian gravity by Daycare, will tapering everyopen Monday, thing in and liftSeptember 25. ing it up. Pure Owner Shannon O’Brien Kerney opened Pure Barre Hours are 6 Barre Brandon Brandon located at 857 E. Bloomingdale Ave. a.m.-6 p.m. for will be open children 6 weeks to 5 years old. Set in seven days a week with over 30 classa Christian setting, there are small es per week. It will have a women’s classrooms, qualified teachers and a retail boutique featuring designer athdirector who has her degree in early leisure and active wear and a studio education. It is located at 232 Lithia room to host Pure Barre classes, spePinecrest Rd. in Brandon. For more cialty classes and events. It is located information or to schedule a tour, at 857 E. Bloomingdale Ave. Hours are please call Theresa Patterson at 3156 a.m.-8 p.m. depending on class time. 8125. Visit Email Brandon@purebarre.com. Visit http://tpattbr2.wixsite.com/livingwellday- www.purebarre.com/fl-brandon. care.

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September 2016

Brandon Edition

Page 23

Osprey Observer Interns Gain Reporting Skills Over The Summer

By Michelle Colesanti

Every summer the Osprey Observer welcomes summer interns. They are usually high school or college students looking to either gain some insight into the world of journalism or to just learn about something new and maybe out of their comfort zone. This year four local students were welcomed to work with the Osprey staff. We wish them continued success.

Katelyn Massarelli

reporter. “I was able to step into a professional journalistic setting where I was given positive feedback on my writing. During my internship I was given the opportunity to hear just a few of the many stories that make this community so special and it showed me how much I love being able to share them. I can’t say thank you enough to the Osprey Observer for giving me the opportunity to intern this summer,” she commented.

Madeline Sullivan

Katelyn Massarelli Madeline Sullivan graduated graduated from from Newsome High School after Bloomingdale High spending her freshman year at School in 2015 and is Coronado High School in San Katelyn Massarelli now a sophomore Diego and sophomore and junior attending the University of Tampa as a years at Bolton High School in Memphis. journalism major. She currently attends the University According to Massarelli, after she of South graduates from college she hopes to conFlorida and is tinue throughout her career as a journalmajoring in ist. “Reporting will always be something communicathat I love and enjoy doing,” she noted. tions with a She is hoping to attend graduate concentration school and continue to expand her knowlin culture and edge on journalism so she can become a media. professor. Sullivan’s Massarelli said, “My journalism hope after teacher at Bloomingdale and my profesgraduation is sors at the University of Tampa have to continue played a huge role in why I want to be a writing, preferMadeline Sullivan journalist. I want to be able to share my ably for a magknowledge and experiences with future azine, and to eventually become an editor journalists and help them become sucone day. She also plans on going back to cessful.” school to become a college professor. Massarelli said that interning this Sullivan said “I really enjoyed internsummer has made her a more confident ing this summer. Interning has taught me

new skills in organization and time management. It has also allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and really get to know people. The deadlines felt challenging at times but it was very rewarding when I turned everything in on time. I have also noticed a big improvement in my writing as well.”

my anxieties about speaking with strangers in order to acquire new information. Although I was initially nervous about being an intern, I found I grew into it quickly and I am proud of the accomplishments I made.”

Ivy Velazquez

Ivy Velazquez graduated from Newsome Jillian Tumlin High School and currentJillian Tumlin graduated from ly attends the University the IB program at Strawberry of Tampa (UT) majoring Crest High School and is now in journalism. starting her second year at the Velazquez is also in University of Central Florida, the ROTC program at although she is technically a junUT, so when she graduIvy Velazquez ior because of college credits ates from college, she earned in high school. She is curhopes to serve in the rently a hospitality major. National Guard and to have a civilian job Tumlin said that she has no plans yet as a reporter for a newspaper. after graduaRegarding the summer internship, tion because Velazquez said, “It was a great experilife constantly ence. Everyone at the Osprey throws curve Observer was very friendly and helpful balls, making it throughout my time interning. I feel I was difficult to disable to learn more about what being a cern exactly reporter entails and it helped put me out what she of my comfort zone through the interwants to do in views, as that has always been a bit of a the future. “I weak point for me. I also really enjoyed suppose my the opportunities and variety of stories I ultimate hope was able to do; before I'd only ever been Jillian Tumlin after graduaon a school newspaper so it was great tion is to be being able to do local news stories that satisfied with myself,” Tumlin noted. went beyond what was happening on Regarding her internship, Tumlin campus. I'm going to be one of the A&E said, “As for my thoughts on interning this editors for the paper at UT and I feel that I summer: it was definitely an unforgettable will be a more capable editor with this experience that required me to abandon experience under my belt.”

Page 24

Volume 11, Issue 9

Brandon Edition

Dave And Buster’s Adds To Exciting News For Bass Pro Shops Area Anchored by Bass Pro Shops and Top Golf, the Estuary, a mixed-use entertainment, retail and medical office project located adjacent to I-75 off of Palm River Road is abuzz with activity and may quickly become a hub of entertainment, dining and shopping. The most recent announcement causing a stir of excitement is Dave and Buster’s, a national arcade restaurant dubbed as a destination to eat, drink play and watch sports under one roof. The venue, with a location in Orlando, offers a variety of games from Pac-Man to Skee Ball and dance revolution to the latest video games and more. The 40,000-sqft.-facility also will offer a full liquor bar with dining options including appetizers like wings and calamari to full entrees such as ribs, steaks, seafood, salads and everything in between. Closing is scheduled for mid-December on the 5.86-acre parcel adjacent to Bass Pro Shops on the north side. Also located on the north side of Bass Pro Shops will be Carvana and Home 2 Suites by Hilton. Carvana is revolutionizing the car buying industries as a completely online used car dealership where users shop, finance and trade cars through its website. Tyler Roberts, Director of Retail Services for Roberts & Associates Southeast, could not report anything about the type of facility that would be built and said, “We are working on permits at this time.” Home 2 Suites by Hilton has a scheduled closing of September 30, according to Roberts and construction is expected to start soon after. Home 2 Suites is a newer brand for Hilton and there currently are 100 locations and

By Sharon Still

more are popping up all over the United States, Canada and Mexico. The stylish suites are designed with work space and kitchens for business travelers’ convenience and comfort. A site plan is in the works for a 25,000-sq.-ft. retail strip that will house restaurants, small shops and other retailers. “Given the area will be a destination for entertainment, we anticipate high-end retailers in this space and not your typical strip mall tenants,” said Roberts. He added that square footage rates are anticipated to be in the mid-$30 range. Still available are four additional freestanding outparcels which Roberts says they may consider stripping out for multi-

tenant usage anchored by restaurant users. There also is a 2.12-acre parcel north of the proposed Dave and Buster’s available that is undetermined. “We are currently talking with and trying to get signed several complementary users such as restaurants and specialty retail stores that offer the potential to drive more destination-oriented traffic to the surrounding retailers,” he reported. Construction is well underway on iFly, an indoor skydiving center, with a projected opening date in November 2016. Situated next to Top Golf, iFly, where the dream of flight becomes reality, will offer simulation of free fall conditions in a vertical wind tunnel. There are locations

throughout the world with the closest being in Orlando. Across from Top Golf and the under construction IFly in Phase Two which also consists of multi-family development, is Brandon Healthplex, Tampa General Hospital’s first outpatient medical center. The 4-story, 140,000-sq.-ft. facility will offer a broad spectrum of health care services under one roof and is slated to open in early 2017. It will house the hospital’s first free-standing adult and pediatric emergency departments, surgery center, lab services, diagnostic imaging, physician offices as well as a helipad. “This is really Tampa General’s first major step into the new world of healthcare, which is bringing healthcare to you,” said John A. Brabson Jr, chairman of the TGH Board of Directors. “I am excited about everything coming to the area,” said Gina Giordano of Riverview. She commented that she and her two children, Dominick, age 8 and Gabby, age 11, had been to the Dave and Buster’s location in Orlando and are looking forward to having one closer to home. When complete, the Estuary, located on nearly 150 acres will house more than 500,000 sq. ft. of development bringing thousands of jobs and a significant economic impact to the area. For more information about available space, contact Roberts & Associates Southeast at 813-443-5097 or visit www.rasere.com.

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September 2016

Brandon Edition

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop Offers Fun, Fresh, Flavors & Supports Teams Too

By Tatiana Ortiz

restaurants throughout the region. Furthermore, the restaurant is known for its tacos and prices do vary. The tacos range from $1.99 to $2.99. Besides tacos, the restaurant does serve an array of other food items such as chips and queso, enchiladas, salads and much more. Also, diners can order alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages such as coffee, bottled water and beer just to name a few. Traveling to Baja “I would recomCalifornia, Texas and mend the California Mexico might be quite Heat Taco and the the trip for some. Diners Cilantro-Lime Rice at Fuzzy’s Taco Shop in as a go to for a food Brandon, can taste all option here,” of these flavors of the baja style tex-mex cui- Enchilada platter with chips and queso Lieberman said. Fuzzy’s Taco sine and save money. The family-orientShop runs specials Monday through ed restaurant provides a comfortable Sunday. For instance, on Monday’s kid’s atmosphere for individuals of all ages. free. Also, the restaurant offers $1.59 eat “We like to keep it simple with our on select tacos, all day happy hour and high quality fresh foods and fair prices,” $3 loaded Corona’s on Tuesday’s. Call said Ian Lieberman, owner of Fuzzy’s 324-7177 to find out a list of more speTaco Shop. cials. On February of this year, Fuzzy’s “As we continue to grow our restauTaco Shop in Brandon opened. The rants, we are committed to being active 4,300 sq. ft. building displays an ample in the community,” Lieberman said. amount of space for diners to choose For more information visit between indoor or outdoor patio seating. It is located at www.fuzzystacoshop.com. Also, the restaurant features a full serv2874 Providence Lakes Blvd. in ice bar. Along with that, an exhibit of flat Brandon. Hours of operation are Monday screen televisions can be seen both through Thursday 11 a.m.11 p.m., inside and outside the place. With over 100 stores, the family owned and operat- Friday through Saturday 11 a.m.- midnight and Sunday 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. ed national franchise aims to build more

Page 25

Support The Troops By Participating In The 9th Annual Cards For Troops

By Kathy L. Collins

Center Place Fine Arts and The Community Roundtable will present the 9th Annual Cards For Troops on Saturday, October 1 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Center Place located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. Members of the community 16 years and older can come together to assemble 2,500 cards this year. All cards are left blank so that the troops can fill them out and send them to family and friends. Lisa Rodriguez, marketing director for Center Place said, "Cards For Troops has grown into a fabulous community event where we come together as a strong and giving community and show our support for the troops. We have a wonderful committee of Stampin’ Up distributors who donate their time months ahead of the event to design, create and prepare the supplies needed to create the holiday cards. Then, volunteers gather at Center Place and work tirelessly to make cards in an easy step by step

process.” Janine Nickerson, president of The Community Roundtable said, "The Community Roundtable looks forward to this annual event. As partners with Center Place, the roundtable is proud to be a part of creating and sending this unexpected gift to our troops. The military personnel may not have access to a retail card shop. This provides them an opportunity to send a beautiful card back home. The blank cards allow the soldiers to send a personal message to friends and family. Over the years, we have received thank you cards from the soldiers thanking us for our community’s support.” Rodriquez said, “If you have a loved one currently serving overseas, give us their address and we will send a box of cards to them.” No experience is necessary to take part in this wonderful community event. Organizers are seeking sponsors and donations of food for lunch for the card making volunteers. To make a donation of any kind including one that will help offset the cost of supplies and postage, contact Center Place at 6858888 or cp@centerplacebrandon.org or contact the Community Roundtable at 661-4350 or roundtable2008@aol.com.

Page 26

Brandon Edition

New Services, Offerings At Local Offices

Stein & Vine Is The Local Friendly, “Pub” By Nicole Heubusch

By Michelle Colesanti

era pictures help you see exactly what the dentist sees, making it easier for you to make an informed The staff decision about your dental of Wayne Lee needs; one hour whitening MD Plastic for same day results; toothSurgery colored fillings and crowns invites you to that are the strongest and join their most esthetic in the dental Return 2 Dr. Amir Boules, field, all options for missing Fitness Team participating Oakfield Dental teeth including implants, in the American Cancer bridges, partial and comSociety Making Strides Against Breast plete dentures to fit your specific needs Cancer Walk, held Saturday, October and desires. Oral appliance therapy to 22, 9:30 a.m. at the Amalie Arena in treat snoring and obstructive sleep Tampa. To join their team or donate, apnea is also provided. visit To make an appointment, call 906main.acsevents.org/goto/TeamWayneL 8808. Visit www.OakfieldDental.com. eeMDReturn2Fitness. Dr. Wayne Lee, MD is a Brandon-based plastic and Skincare and Unique Chemical Peels reconstructive surgeon who offers a Now At Brandon Cataract Center & variety of cosmetic and non-surgical Eye Clinic procedures, as well as reconstructive services for cancer patients. Visit Brandon’s premier provider of cusWayneLeeMD.com or call 579-3369 to tomized skincare and unique chemical schedule a free consultation. peels, Brandon Cataract Center & Eye Clinic is proud to have Auyanna Gilbert Oakfield Dental Provides High L.E. C.O.A. as part of their team. "It's Quality Care With State of the Art my promise to bring each and every Technology client's skin to its full potential in health Oakfield Dental upholds its commit- and beauty." Brandon Cataract Center & Eye ment to the highest quality of care by Clinic understands relaxation during combining state of the art technology treatment can dramatically your with passionate clinicians and staff. increase results. It offers the comfort Located at 1457 Oakfield Dr. in and ambiance of a spa (warm bed, hot Brandon, Dr. Amir Boules provides towels, aroma therapy) with the security high-quality dental care in a stress-free of working in a medical setting. environment. Brandon Cataract Center & Clinic is Services include: all digital x-ray located at 403 Vonderburg Dr. in technology provide accurate images Brandon. For more information, call with a fraction of the radiation exposure 681-1122. Visit http://brandoneye.com/. of old style film; colored intra-oral cam-

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Volume 11, Issue 9

The Stein & Vine team.

Adorned with a red "PUB" sign on the storefront, the simple façade of Brandon's The Stein & Vine is contrasted by the warm, welcoming interior. Known to local patrons as the “friendly neighborhood pub”, The Stein & Vine has been a staple in the community since opening its doors in late 2012. Ty and Lacey Mathis opened The Stein & Vine almost four years ago after wishing they had a local place where they could find craft food, beer, and wine. They had no idea how popular The Stein & Vine would become, and how quickly it would happen. “When we opened in 2012, we didn’t really advertise. All of our business came from word of mouth. We’re grateful for the community’s support, and wouldn’t be here without it,” said Lacey. The Stein & Vine expanded in May of 2015 and it’s still as bustling as ever. “We attribute a lot of our success to our staff. We’re very lucky to have an amazing staff that cares as much about this place as we do. We appreciate everything our staff does,” Lacey added. You can find craft beer from all over the world at The Stein & Vine but Ty and Lacey make sure to keep the focus on

celebrating local offerings, including those from Coppertail, Hidden Ale Springworks, and Cigar City Brewing, along with other Bay Area favorites. When the pub first opened it was popular as a place to grab a craft beer or glass of wine, but patrons quickly discovered that the kitchen's offerings of uniquely crafted food dishes is what truly made The Stein & Vine stand out. As regulars know, the menu has two sections, “the usual suspects” that include local favorites and a rotating menu that is inspired and crafted daily The ‘usual suspects’ offers dishes such as the "Juicy Lacey", a burger with a cheese-filled patty (grab extra napkins!) and the famous Stein & Vine tater tots. In addition to serving its community with food and drinks, The Stein & Vine enjoys helping local charities. On October 7th, you can help The Stein & Vine support the Brandon Ballet for the 2nd annual Beer for Barres event held at The Barn at Winthrop. For more information, visit http://brandonballet.org/. You can view the daily menu changes on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TheSteinandVine or on their website at http://www.thesteinandvine.com/. The Stein & Vine is located at 827 West Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon and opens daily at 12 noon. For more information call 655-4786.

September 2016

Brandon Edition

Discovery Point Provides Quality Care For Riverview, SouthShore Families

By Amy Schechter

participate in extracurricular activities like dance, karate, Zumba, and theater to get them moving if they are not spending time on one of their multiple playgrounds. Discovery Point hopes to create well-rounded individuals, so they focus on mind and body, including providing nutritious lunches and snacks. Families have two convenient locations from which to Two convenient Discovery Point locations serve the choose on Symmes Road or SouthShore area. Summerfield Crossing Boulevard. The hardest moment of any parent’s Space is still available for fall voluntary life is entrusting their child to the care of pre-Kindergarten as well as before and others. However, MaryAnn Di Leo and after care for local elementary schools Peggy Ballweg, co-owners and operators including Sessums, Collins, Summerfield of Discovery Point Riverview Childcare Elementary, Summerfield Crossing, and and Preschool which serves the SouthShore Academy. Call for information SouthShore community, are aware of that regarding space for infants and toddlers. feeling as parents of young children A special 10 percent off tuition discount is themselves. That is why they and their available to active and veteran military, staff commit to providing exceptional and there is also a program for childcare that feels like an extension of Hillsborough County school teachers your family. Di Leo explains their vision, where parents do not have to pay during “Because we are family owned, we holidays and breaks when teachers are approach this business from a parent's off work. perspective.” Every child is viewed as one For more information or to schedule of their own, so they strive to provide a a no obligations tour of the facility, call safe, enriching environment to help each 671-1800 (Symmes Rd.) or 671-0900. To blossom to their full potential. find out more about the Symmes location, They offer unique age-appropriate visit www.discoverypoint.com/symmes/. programs from infants to school-aged To find out more information about the children with the goal of fostering a lifeSummerfield Crossing Blvd. location, visit long love of learning. In addition to the www.discoverypoint.com/summerfield/ or creative curriculum, students have access find either of them on Facebook. to ABCmouse.com’s Early Learning Discovery Point is located at 11719 Academy to hone their computer skills Symmes Rd. in Riverview and 13011 while growing their brains. Children also Summerfield Crossing Blvd. in Riverview.

Page 27

Seventh Annual Day Of Pampering For Moms-To-Be Seeking Donations

By Sandy Meyer

Last year 475 moms-to-be, 30 dadsto-be and 250 guests attended the day of pampering along with 40 vendors. This year Hills-Ackbar is expecting more than 500 moms-to-be. Attendees will have the opportunity to attend training classes for new parents, receive gifts, lunch and even free Moms-to-be will have the opportunity to visit several vendors to massages. receive free items and parenting educational materials. “A lot of these On Saturday, October 8 the seventh expectant moms won’t get a baby showannual Day of Pampering for Moms-toer,” said Hills-Ackbar. “This is an opportuBe will take place at Ybor Square Church nity for them to have a shower and get of Scientology. This annual event has educated about parenting at the same helped countless expectant moms to pretime.” pare for motherhood. All of the moms-toIn order to give these parents-to-be be are on public assistance in the best head start possible, Caregivers Hillsborough County and are in need of Helping Hand, Inc. is hoping to provide the basic necessities to care for their the essentials they will need to care for babies. their child. To donate, volunteer or The day of pampering is the brainbecome a sponsor for this very special child of Tampa resident Richedean Hillsday, visit www.chhincvolunteers.org. Ackbar and is sponsored by the non-profMoms-to-be can register at Moms-toit volunteer organization, Caregiver’s be.eventbrite.com. Hills-Ackbar said they Helping Hand, Inc. The annual event has are still in need of a pediatric center sponalways taken place on a Friday but this sor to come out and speak to the expecyear has been moved to a Saturday. tant parents. For additional information, “We’re hoping to bring in more dads call 379-8966. to the event and since most are at work The shower takes place from 10 on Fridays, we’ve decided to move it to a a.m.-2 p.m. at the Ybor Square Church of Saturday in the hopes more dads will be Scientology, located at 1300 E. 8th St. in involved,” said Hills-Ackbar. She is hoping Tampa. Siblings and grandmothers are to increase the number of dads in attenwelcome. dance by at least 100 percent she said.

Page 28

Volume 11, Issue 9

Brandon Edition

Family Friendly Halloween Fun At Local Theme Parks & More Lowry Park Zoo – Creatures of the Night

This new Halloween event, Creatures of the Night, will offer a widerange of activities for all. From youngsters to teens and adults, find eerie adventures for the entire family throughout the Zoo. Wander into scare zones or encounter animals at night. You can party the night away at a ghoulish dance party. You won’t find horror or gore, just scares and startles for one and all. The animal areas will be open, pending weather and other circumstances, besides the Florida Boardwalk. Please visit before 5 p.m. to see the Florida animals including manatees, stingrays, and black bears. In addition, Animal Ambassadors will have scheduled mingles in select locations. Children (ages 11 and under) are invited to arrive in their most spooktacular attire. Toy weapons of any sort will not be permitted. For the comfort and safety of all guests, adults (ages 12 and older) are prohibited from wearing masks, wigs, face paint or costumes of any kind. It will take place on Fridays and Saturdays from October 7 - October 29 and will remain open until 10 p.m. For members of the Zoo, Creature’s of the Night is included in their membership. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/2coMYIY.

The Florida Aquarium - Guppyween

Join in on Saturday and Sunday, October 29 and 30 from 1-5 p.m. for the only time wild animals, ghosts and princesses can roam the Aquarium—

Guppyween. Trick-or-treat among over 20,000 sea creatures, makes for the perfect family-friendly Halloween event. Entertainment and treats will be provided, so come dressed in your best costume. The cost for kids in costume is $10.

ening event features trick-or-treating along the Brick or Treat Trail, larger-thanlife LEGO models, LEGO build activities, the world's largest LEGO jack-o-lantern, a scavenger hunt with prizes, and an exclusive, Halloween-themed fireworks show in Pirates' Cove. Brick or Treat will take place

Compiled By Michelle Colesanti

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, a separately ticketed event in Magic Kingdom Park. Don’t miss your chance to collect candies, sweets and frightfully delightful treats—all while the park hosts grim grinning ghosts, eerie entertainment and Disney Characters that go bump in the night. Many regular attractions will also remain open. Best of all: since the tone of this event is “not-so-scary,” that means children of every age can enjoy the fun. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party costs $67 per child and $72 per adult (plus tax), and takes place on September 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 29 and 30, October 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30 and 31. Before you arrive dressed up for the occasion, please read the official costume guidelines at Mickey’s Not-SoScary Halloween Party for children and adults. Visit http://bit.ly/1isT8sY for more information or to purchase tickets.

SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular

Adults (12yrs and older) pay the regular admission price Regular Admission Price of $24.95 or $22.95 online. Florida Aquarium Members and children under 2 get in free.

Legoland’s Brick or Treat Returns

Brick or Treat will be back with more spooky, kooky Halloween fun for kids. Expanded in 2016, the friendly-not-fright-

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Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

The witching hour’s almost here, so get your favorite costume ready for

It’s an ocean of Halloween fun for the whole family at SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular. During this daytime event, families are immersed in an underwater "fantasea" including trick-ortreating, whimsical pumpkin fish, seathemed arts and crafts and up-close animal encounters in a family-friendly event that could only come from SeaWorld. Halloween Spooktacular runs weekends from October 1-30, and is included in park admission. Visit http://bit.ly/2c4NYBC.

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September 2016

Page 29

Brandon Edition

Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, and The Vault Host Adult Only Halloween FrighTS

Compiled By Michelle Colesanti

Howl-O-Scream Puts On An “Evil Encore”

Mr. Karver put his heart and soul into his dolls. After the authorities came to close him down, Karver locked himself in his “Hall Of Dolls” and burned it to the ground. Now, the dummies are back and they insist the show must go on. It’s the encore no one asked for, and it’s about to bring down the house, forever. It’s the Evil Encore everyone is dying to see. Tampa Bay’s premier Halloween event returns with tormenting surprises and unexpected frights around every corner. There are two brand-new haunted houses and a bone-chilling storyline starring a disturbing cast of demon dolls. Howl-O-Scream is intended for a mature audience. This year's event contains intense adult content such as violence, gore and blood. There are seven haunted houses, and throughout the park and in between the haunted houses, every corner will be deemed unsafe. Guests can test their limits while braving thrill rides in the dark, including Cobra’s Curse, Busch Gardens’ new oneof-a-kind spin coaster. Plus, challenge North America’s tallest freestanding drop tower Falcon’s Fury, Florida’s first and

only triple-launch coaster Cheetah Hunt and others. Freaky Preview returns this year and will open Howl-O-Scream 2016 on Friday, September 23 and Saturday, September 24. The event then runs select nights from Thursday, September 29 through Sunday, October 30. Operating event hours are 7:30 p.m.-1 a.m. This year, 4-Pack Ticket Deals start at $35.99 per person, plus tax. Reduced advance-purchase rates are available online, and special offers are available for Busch Gardens Pass Members. Additionally, out-of-towners can take advantage of great vacations packages, like the Overnight Fright or Wild & Wicked Weekends packages. For more information, visit HowlOScream.com. Howl-O-Scream 2016 is a separately-ticketed night event. No costumes are allowed. For guest information, visit HowlOScream.com or call 1-888800-5447

event filled with truly original scares and authentic horror movie moments. Explore terrifying haunted houses, make your way through multiple scare zones where creatures lurk around every turn, enjoy outrageous live shows, and experience many of the park’s most exciting rides and attractions. New this year for American Horror Story fans and those unsuspecting guests, step inside the twisted world of the award-winning anthology horror series that’s been terrorizing T.V. viewers since 2011. Halloween Horror Nights is a separately ticketed event and occurs rain or shine. No rain checks, returns or refunds. Prices, dates, times, attractions and entertainment subject to availability and may change without notice. Other restrictions may apply. For more information on ticket prices, times and dates, visit www.halloweenhorrornights.com/orlando/.

Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights

The Vault of Souls Redefines The Haunt Experience

On select nights from Friday, September 16 through Monday, October 31, the streets of Universal Studios Florida theme park come alive with hordes of horrifying mutants, monsters and maniacs. Nobody creates a more nightmarish Halloween

The Vault of Souls is a theatrical fear experience in downtown Tampa for ages 18 and over. From elegant dancing in the restored 1920s bank building, The Vault, to disturbing characters in the creepy 100-year old basement, to an aerialist on the third floor and a world class singer in the Gin Joint, performance art is as diverse as it can get for The Vault of Souls 2016. In its second year of creating an unforgettable evening of elegant fear, the madmen and women behind The Vault of

Souls have increased performance staff by 15 percent with mostly local actors.

"This year we are deepening our story by including more characters that can interact with our guests," said Scott Swenson, Creative Director for The Vault of Souls. Starting October 30, it runs Friday and Saturday evenings through October. Guests will receive one-on-one attention from spirits on three levels of The Franklin Exchange high-rise in downtown Tampa. Having been called “psychologically unnerving,” anyone from this life who dares to enter The Vault of Souls should be prepared to explore nearly 11,000 sq. ft. of hidden fear, all while wearing a white face mask to protect their identity from spirits with harmful intentions. If guests are savvy enough to find their own way out of the treacherous and historically haunted basement, they enter a 1920s themed speakeasy bar and are encouraged to party with other survivors and relive their paranormal experience. The Vault of Souls is located at Franklin and Twiggs St. in downtown Tampa. For reservations, visit http://elegantfear.com/reservations.

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Volume 11, Issue 9

Brandon Edition

First Community Valor Awards Honors 12 Public Safety Personnel Staff Report

In September, 12 public safety personnel were honored for acts of heroism over the past year.

The 2016 Public Safety Valor Awards, a new event introduced by the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, honored 12 public safety personnel for acts of heroism in central Hillsborough County over the past year. It was held September 7 at The Regent in Riverview. The program, sponsored by Platinum Bank, featured the following awards: Valor Awards - The highest award for valor and heroism were awarded to Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Deputies Ryan Jones and Ian Genevish for preventing a suicide off the 50th Street Bridge, and Fish and Wildlife Conservation Officer Gregory Patterson for rescuing three women from an overturned personal watercraft in the water near the Gandy Bridge. Sadly, Officer Patterson passed away earlier this year, in a tragic bicycling accident when he was off duty. Lifesaving Award – In recognition of official acts taken to save a life in a situation where an individual’s life is in jeopardy, either medically or physically were awarded to: Fish and Wildlife Conservation Officer Richard Dearborn for helping Officer Patterson in rescuing the three women near the Gandy Bridge. Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Master Detective Jeffery Harris for rescuing a child from a dog attack; Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Captain David Macaluso for rescuing

a man trapped inside a gasoline tanker, overcome by fumes; Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy John Skjefte for saving a 2-year-old from drowning in a pool; Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy Cabot Brown from saving a woman from drowning in a hotel bathtub; and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputies Daniel Jones and Jeffery Stout for rescuing a woman from carbon monoxide poisoning in her garage Award of Merit – In recognition of work on projects over time, or which required exceptional dedication and perseverance, was presented to Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy Joshua Boyer, a Community Resource Deputy assigned the role of Homeless Initiative Liaison for District II, which includes the Greater Brandon area, since 2014. By linking to available resources in the area, Deputy Boyer has been able to change countless lives by helping those willing to accept a new start people to move beyond a crime based life. A tribute to the late HCSO Deputy John Robert Kotfila who was tragically killed on March 16 by a wrong-way driver, was given by Major Robert Bullara, his commanding officer. Kotfila was the 16th deputy to give his life in the line of duty. The Greater Brandon Chamber represents more than 800 businesses and nonprofits in the greater Brandon area. For more information, visit www.brandonchamber.com.

Valrico Resident Helps Ugandans On Mission Trip

By Nick Nahas

Valrico native and sharing the Taylor Green is conGospel so that peotinuing his family’s ple can be introduced commitment to servinto God’s Kingdom.” ice by helping people Kelly Green in need. He recently Global worked in unireturned home from a son with Green’s mission trip to Africa mom’s ministry, God helping provide inforis Grace. This organimation and resources zation teaches the to the impoverished women of Uganda a people of Uganda. trade or how to start He spent 11 days in their own business Africa doing work because the majority with both his mom of them have very litand dad’s ministry tle education, and tragroups, Kelly Green ditionally, it falls on Global and God is the shoulders of the Taylor Green (left in white) and Brock Grace. women to work in Bell (in purple) speaking at a local school in Uganda. Green, 31, head order to provide for trainer/manager for RobZ Fitness and for- their families, Green said. They are taught mer baseball player for Bloomingdale how to sell their trades, such as clothing High School, spent some time teaching or necklaces. Sponsors from the U.S. children aged 7-16 how to play baseball. give a fixed amount of money each He also went to high schools to teach the month for 10 months to help these importance of abstinence, and also to women get their businesses started after raise awareness for HIV and AIDS. “They they graduate from the course. just wanted to know what you had to say, Taylor said he and his mom, Beth, they were super respectful, they were spent a couple of days with these women very eager to know more about you and to hear their stories about how this organyour family and where you are from,” he ization has changed their lives. They colsaid. “Everybody wanted to have some lected clothes to bring for the women and sort of interaction with you.” their families, with the help of the Osprey Kelly Green Global was founded by Observer, as well as resources such as Green’s dad, Kelly, in 1979. According to fabric to help them get started. their website, over the last 40 plus years, “Going to Africa and realizing that I Kelly has visited over 1,500 churches and don’t have to necessarily give money, I has made several international mission can just give myself, my time, my trips to help spread the word of the resources — just to be able to do that for gospel. The Kelly Green Global mission people in need is very fulfilling,” Taylor statement says they model Jesus’ minsaid. “It was good for me to experience istry, “caring for the sick, training leaders, that.”

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September 2016

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Brandon Edition

Photos and story by Tamas Mondovics

Public Schools 2016-2017 Calendar, Florida Sheriff’s Association Awards Scholarships & More University of Florida pursuing a degree in motivated them to choose law enforcecriminology with aspirations of attending ment. law school. The applications and essays were reviewed by a committee of representaDistrict Posts Free, Reduced Price tives from the Florida Sheriffs Association Meal Guidelines whose members selected 10 recipients. Matthew Booth, is the son of HCSO Hillsborough County Public Schools Master officials have Deputy Mark posted this Booth, who year’s guidewill be pursulines for free ing a degree and reduced in Criminal price meals Justice at the reminding parUniversity of ents and stuCentral dents to take Florida. advantage of Janae the district’s free Dace, breakfast prodaughter of gram offered, HCSO payregardless of roll clerk the child’s Yolanda household Dace, is income. planning to According Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Major Robert Bullara, right, attend and his wife Laura are joined by their son Robert who was to a recent awarded a scholarship from the Florida Sheriffs’ Hillsborough release, children Association. Community are able to College and then Albany State University. receive free, nutritious breakfast every Robert Joseph Bullara, is the son of school day thanks to The National School HCSO District 4 Major Robert Bullara, Breakfast Program, with breakfast options Sr., who is currently attending the that include fruit and yogurt parfaits,

2016-2017 School Calendar

Hillsborough County Public Schools began welcoming more than 200,000 students back to the district August 10. Cutting the summer break a bit shorter, the district’s approved new calendar has shifted the school year up two weeks. View the full calendar online at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/calendar/.

Florida Sheriff's Association Awards Scholarships To Children Of Law Enforcement

Following in its annual tradition, the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSAA) awarded scholarships to 10 hardworking students studying toward a career in law enforcement, corrections or another criminal justice field. According to FSAA officials, the students look to follow in the footsteps of their parents as they are sons and daughters of employees working full-time for a Florida Sheriff's Office. Three of the 10 students chosen, Robert Bullara, Matthew Booth and Janae Dace, are children of Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) employees. To be considered for the scholarship, students submitted a five-page application and an essay on how their parent

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whole grain muffins, and apple cinnamon oatmeal all of which are promising to meet federal nutrition standards, free of charge to all students in Hillsborough County Public Schools. A free breakfast is available before the first bell rings. Children from families whose income is at or below the guidelines are also eligible for free or reduced price meals. Household application for school meal benefits are available online. To apply, participants are asked to visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us, type “Go SNS” in the search bar, and follow the instructions. Applying online is simple, secure, and the fastest way to apply for free school meal benefits. A new family application must be completed each year. For reference only, parents may view a sample application in 34 different languages at the following website: www.fns.usda.gov/school-meals/applying-free-and-reduced-price-school-meals. Applications may be submitted at any time during the year. If a child moves from one Hillsborough County public school to another in the same year, parents do not need to submit a new application. For more information, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

Page 32

Brandon Edition

P R E SS

Authorized:

Reporter

Tamas

Mondovics tamas@ ver.com ospreyobser

Rd. Pinecrest11 918 Lithia n, FL 335 Brando -24 18 657 bserver.com www.ospreyo

Volume 11, Issue 9

Sports Connection 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com

Armwood Dominates And Keeps Bloomingdale At Bay With 47-0 Win

By Tamas Mondovics

For Armwood High School football head coach, Sean Armwood walked away with a Callahan, and his team, the early 47-0 win and, one step closer to season non-district home game at the Class 6A state title game, Lyle Flagg Stadium against which it had lost to Miami Central Bloomingdale, was business as for the last three times in a row. usual. As for the guests, it was a This year, Bloomingdale is led much different story. by former offensive coordinator for While, the game, was more Hillsborough High School (2011about measuring up skills and tal2014), Max Warner, and for a ent, it began with the need for good reason. several members of the home The Bulls managed to win just team to adjust their gear to meet one game all last year and, while FHSAA regulation. the loss to the Hawks is not The small distraction did not uncommon, it came on the heels amount to much as the Hawks of a pair of wins against Newsome offensive line led by junior quarand Gaither and ahead of the proterback Devin Black, quickly set gram’s first district bout against the stage for what was to be a Tampa Bay Tech, a program that rough night for the Bulls. pummeled Wharton 53-0 the same Black, a former Lennard High night. School quarterback is one of two For more information about new players snatched up by the Standing at six feet and five inches, weighing 260 ponds, Hawks defensive lineman Malcolm Lamar Hillsborough County area high (97) stands out from the rest at the start of a non district home game against Bloomingdale. Lamar school football, please visit Hawks. The other key player to kept the Bulls at bay and helped Armwood to its second win of the regular season. join the Hawks this fall is former www.maxpreps.com. Jefferson Black collected defensive end 253 yards, and three Jabreel touchdowns for the Stephens, a night, courtesy of a Seffner resihalf a dozen dent zoned for receivers to choose Armwood. from. With 12 in Armwood’s the first and 21 defense led by junior in the second lineman Malcolm quarter, the Lamar, also showed Hawks its strength by keepamassed 33 ing the Bulls at bay points by half with less then 20 time. yards of offense in While the first half. Bloomingdale Confident of struggled to another great year, keep up or just Callahan said that he stand their Bloomingdale Bulls senior Chris Capham was looking forward ground, the brings down Armwood QB Devin Black in to playing the Bulls, the second quarter during a non district Hawks offense but that his eyes are game. Halting the Hawks offense seemed to get Hawks junior quarterback Devin Black, connects with senior running back Erin Collins already on the post however, was few and far between, as in the first quarter during a non district home game against Bloomingdale. Black led better and betthe much stronger team seemed to get season, all the way his team’s offense to a powerful 47-0 win. better as the game went on. ter. to the end.

September 2016

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Brandon Edition

Sports

Connection

Story and photos by Tamas Mondovics

Father, Son Compete 2016 County Senior Games

Bloomingdale High Cheer Squad Ready for Competitive Season

For more than three WWII Navy Veteran, a decades, the annual competitive swimmer, who Hillsborough County keeps an active lifestyle, Senior Games has been which includes, playing bringing together hunTennis as well as swimdreds of local residents, ming laps for an hour at 50 years and older to least three times a week. compete in a wide variety Last year, at age 88, of athletic activities. Robert competed in 15 The three-week comevents, winning Gold in petition will feature plenty most, and taking Silver of intense athletic battles and Bronze in the rest. as participants vie for gold, “My dad has been an silver, or bronze in sportinspiration for all of us and ing events such as powerI am so excited to be able Jeffrey Williams, 68, left, and to fly in to compete with lifting, cycling, golf, picklehis dad Robert 89, ball, swimming, tennis, him this year,” Jeffrey said, pose for a photo. track and field, table tenwhile crediting his dad’s nis, billiards, bowling, bean bag toss, active lifestyle to his involvement with the dominoes, darts, baking, hobby show, YMCA as an executive director. and a talent showcase. “Dad’s motivation now is to stay Of course, while the program is about healthy, not just for his own sake, but to healthy competition, for most participants be able take care of his wife, Buni who it’s about much more than that as it brings has been placed in a local assisted living together friends and, sometimes families, home,” Jeffrey said. such as in the case of Robert Williams, “The Senior Games offer activities for 89, who is once again ready to compete socializing and competing, while having in every track event and every swimming fun with your peers,’’ said Debbie event. Robinson with Parks & Recreation, which Williams, has four sons, six grandorganizes the games. children and five great-grandchildren and Registration is $30 and includes two will be joined by his son, Jeffrey Williams, tickets to theCelebration Luncheon at All 63, who has made arrangements to travel People’s Life Center, 6105 E. Sligh Ave. from New Jersey for a chance to comin Tampa on Friday, October 14. pete in the track events alongside his To see the full schedule of activities dad. and to register for 2016 Senior Games, ““I’ll just be trying to keep up with visit hcflgov.net/seniorgames or call (813) him,’’ Jeffrey said, adding that his father, a 744-5595, ext. 38206.

Thanks to a shortfive, however, did not er summer break, come easy for the Hillsborough County squad including an area students who are injury during the finals eager to prove their performance that skills and talents had a forced the girls top chance to do just that halt the routine. a bit earlier this year. Befitting a chamBloomingdale pionship caliber team, Members of the Bloomingdale High Senior High School a decision was made School cheerleading squad. student athletes were to regroup and finish no different and, for many of them, the the job. The rest was history. official start of the year was simply a conWhile proudly boasting that to be a tinuation of an already very active sumpart of the Bloomingdale cheerleading mer. squad is “something special,” Groat is now looking forward to another season of “The girls had a great summer, but competition with a goal of nothing less stayed busy,” said Bloomingdale Cheer than last year’s success. coach Michelle Groat, who is now in her Aside from three new members of 14th year coaching and starting her second season with the Bulls. the squad who are also new to the Following the dreaded tryouts, Groat school, Gadson and Haywood are expressed confidence of this year’s team among the 15 girls and that are returning roster that is now featuring 18 talented this year, effectively adding to the proathletes, including seven seniors, all led gram’s strength. by senior captains, Raven Gadson, and “We have worked out some bugs,” Taylar Haywood. Groat said. “Both girls were a key part of last Bloomingdale is hosting the season’s year’s competitive season success that first local competition scheduled for ended with us in fourth place in the 2A Wednesday, November 11, 2016. Medium Varsity Division during the 2016 The event is a great way to get the Florida High School Competitive girl ready for the rest of the season’s Cheerleading State Championships,” competitions including the much anticiGroat said. pated Western Conference and the The event finals were hosted by the annual FHSAA Competitive State Florida High School Athletic Association Cheerleading Championship in late January. (FHSAA) at the USF Sun Dome, last The BSHS cheerleading squad can March. be followed on twitter@bshscheer. Claiming its rightful place in the top

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Volume 11, Issue 9

Brandon Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Winners Of The Brandon League of Fine Arts Annual Show Artworks 2016 Announced On should be noted that Thursday, Drewry is the only local September 8, the artist to have won an Brandon League award. of Fine Arts The Minette announced the Webster Memorial winners of Award went to Kathleen Artworks 2016 at Durdin Center Place in (Christine/Kimono). Brandon. Third Place went to Artworks is a Ruby Schwarzschild for juried show with Peppers Fiesta. Second over $1,000 Nancy Lauby of Palm Harbor won First Place Place went to Donna given in awards. in Artworks 2016 with her acrylic piece known Morrison for Everglades The artwork will Reflections 6. as Twisted. be on display in First Place was the Mook Gallery at Center Place through awarded to Nancy Lauby for her acrylic the end of September. piece, Twisted. This is a very lovely work of Sue Allen, Chair of Artworks 2016 said, a Great Blue Heron. Lauby is from Palm “This year’s show featured a very diverse Harbor. She is a retired elementary school collection of art from artists who come from teacher who has been creating art for a long all over the Tampa Bay area.” time. Lauby’s subject matter are always The judge was Christine Renc-Carter, nature. “I am originally from the Midwest the Curator of the Leepa-Rattner Museum and grew up on a farm. I have always conof Art at St. Petersburg College in Tarpon nected with birds,” explained Lauby. Springs. Renc-Carter said, “It was truly an Lauby added, “I have never entered honor to be asked to judge this show with Artworks before, but I chose to enter such an amazing level of talent in one room. Twisted this year. It is one of my latest It was difficult to judge.” Renc-Carter added, paintings.” Lauby explained that she is “Please know that my list of artists that I doing really interesting work now using palm wanted to give awards to was about twice fronds as her “canvas.” Because no two as long as what I could give. It was very palm fronds are the same, each of Lauby’s hard to narrow down to only six. The show pieces are literally original works of art. was hung beautifully in such a lovely Stop by Center Place located at 619 space.” Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon to view Artworks This year’s winners included Honorable 2016. For more information on the Brandon Mentions to Joose Hadley (Break-Away) League of Fine Arts, please visit and Anne Drewry (Phoenix Reborn). It www.blfa.us.

Come See The Brandon Ballet Present The Original Ballet Dracula Tickets are just $40 for adults and $25 for Seniors, Students and Military. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or at the door on the day of the performance. The Brandon Ballet has been in the community for over 20 years. Under the direction of Martin, it is growing and thriving. “One of my missions as Artistic Director Last year, Luis Victor Santana performed the part of Dracula in the Brandon Ballet’s original production. This is to bring the art of ballet to year, the ballet will be presented to a wider audience as communities outside of the the Brandon Ballet takes the stage at USF Theatre 1. Brandon area. Bringing the Brandon Ballet to USF will The Brandon Ballet under the direction make the production more accessible for of Artistic Director, Octavio Martin, will the Tampa audience to come to the perpresent the 3rd Annual performance of the formance. We also wanted the production original ballet, Dracula, on Saturday, to be easily accessible to the students of October 22 at 7:30 p.m. at USF Theatre 1 USF, including students studying dance,” located in the Andros Center at 4202 E. said Martin. Fowler Ave. in Tampa. Dracula is a great production with a According to Martin, “Dracula has haunting musical score and innovative chobeen a Halloween favorite for the past two reography. Martin explained, “The Brandon years. This year, the Brandon Ballet is Ballet puts all efforts together to present going to enrich the production with specthe highest quality of productions, from the tacular backdrops from Theatre World dancers to the production details. Each Backdrops and world renowned guest dancer is carefully selected for a specific dancers formerly of the Cuban National role based on unique talents.” Ballet. These guest dancers will join the Begin your Halloween celebrations a Brandon Ballet’s six professional artists little early and spend an evening immersed and 32 training dancers.” in an innovative and theatrical original balMartin added, “While the fan loved let. For more information on Dracula and story of our production of Dracula remains the Brandon Ballet, please visit www.branthe same, fresh choreography will bring donballet.org. new life to the show.”

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Brandon Edition

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Brandon Edition

Volume 11, Issue 9