Osprey Observer 2017-10 Bloomingdale/FishHawk

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

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C E L E B R A T I N G

October 2017 Volume 16, Issue 10 Ph: 657-2418 1 5

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P U B L I S H I N G

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C O M M U N I T Y

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County Meetings Discuss Study To Eliminate All Left Turns On Bloomingdale

HCSO Col. Chad Chronister To Succeed Gee As County Sheriff

saveBloomingdale@gmail.com for residents to subscribe to and get updates on this issue.

John Sullivan said at a recent gathering, "I became aware of the study and realized that not a lot of people were even aware of it.

Closing off left turns is not good for any business along Bloomingdale Ave." Sullivan added, "This proposal is not going to help alleviate traffic Area residents who are concerned about a study problems. It will hurt and probably which proposes to eliminate all left turns and u- destroy businesses in the area. The turns on Bloomingdale Ave. from Lithia Pinecrest to Hwy. 301, gathered in Winthrop on Monday, plan would require drivers to make endless right turns and find places September 18 to get more info.

If you live in the greater Brandon where they can make u-turns to get to area, you need to be aware of a study their destination." being conducted by the Hillsborough It should be noted that in its current Metropolitan Planning Organization and state, there are no exceptions to the no the Planning Commission. It is called left turns. So, if a student is trying to get to Brandon Corridor and Mixed-Use Centers Bloomingdale High School, they will not Pilot Project. It is especially pertinent to be allowed to make a left to get to school. those who travel on Bloomingdale Ave. Dr. Nancee Sorenson, President of (in either direction from Lithia Pinecrest HCC Brandon, lived in Tucson, Arizona Rd. to Hwy 301), Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and where a similar plan was implemented.

Bryan Rd. and other area roads.

Dr. Sorenson said, "It caused a lot of conThis study includes several recomfusion with drivers and there were many mendations including one to remove accidents and near misses. It was a relief median/center turn lanes on when they finally got rid of it. I firmly Bloomingdale Ave. and turn it into a believe that implementation of this would reversible expressway during peak hours. be detrimental to the area." The study is Essentially, the study proposes to remove at www.planhillsborough.org/Brandon-corall left turns and u-turns on Bloomingdale ridor-mixed-use-centers/. Residents are Ave. urged to review it and contact the County Many local business owners, includCommissioners and voice their opinion ing John and Kay Sullivan, founders of on the plan.

Winthrop, are concerned about this study A public meeting will be held Monday, and the lack of community involvement in October 9 and Monday, November 13 the process. The Sullivans have organfrom 2-5 p.m. at 601 E. Kennedy ized business leaders and residents in Blvd.,18th floor, Planning Commission the community in an attempt to let the Board Room in downtown Tampa. public know about the study and provide Residents are urged to attend or visiting them with an opportunity to voice their http://www.planhillsborough.org/brandonopinion. They have established corridor-mixed-use-centers/.

community As the news of involvement, tropical storm Irma proven characforming in the ter and outCaribbean standing reached area resiintegrity.” dents, another Gee major developemphasized ment took place in that thanks to Hillsborough his qualificaCounty. tions and capaGovernor Rick bilities Scott appointed Chronister is Col. Chad the right person Chronister, 49, as to serve as sheriff of Hillsborough Hillsborough County’s next County. sheriff.

The much “I’d like to anticipated and thank Governor expected appointHillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Colonel Chad Chronister.

Scott for his ment was the commitment to public safety and supresult of the early retirement of port of our state’s law enforcement as Hillsborough County’s highly respectwe serve and protect our communied and much-admired Sheriff David ties. I have been truly honored to Gee, who ended a 39-year law serve the citizens of Florida and enforcement career and left the office Hillsborough County,” Gee said. on September 30.

Chronister joined the Hillsborough “Sheriff Gee has devoted his life to protecting Florida families, including County Sheriff’s Office in 1992 as a patrol deputy and has served in spethe last thirteen years as Hillsborough County Sheriff, and I’m incredibly Continued on Page 5 grateful for his service,” Scott said.

“I’m honored to announce that following Sheriff Gee’s retirement, I am In This appointing Colonel Chad Chronister Issue as Hillsborough County Sheriff.

Colonel Chronister has spent 25 years in the sheriff’s office, rising through WALK FOR A CURE.............................PG 4 the ranks and proving himself to be a HOA HOT TOPICS ...............................PG 7 strong leader who exemplifies the office’s mission to serve, protect, and HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES ..................PG 10 defend Florida families. I’m confident CHRISTIAN CONCERT .......................PG 16 that he will continue Sheriff Gee’s great work in Hillsborough County.”

DAVE & BUSTERS ............................PG 25 Also present during the ceremoniSPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 32‐33 al appointment, and joined by Florida State Attorney General Pam Bondi, CHALKLINES .....................................PG 38 Hillsborough County Sheriff David ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT................PG 40 Gee said, “Colonel Chronister’s decades of public service are a EYE ON BUSINESS ............................PG 45 demonstration of remarkable law enforcement experience, leadership, READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE

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National Weather Service (NWS) Warning Coordination Meteorologist, Dan Noah pauses for a photo while tracking Hurricane Irma at the NWS’s Tampa Bay office in Ruskin. The storm kept NWS staff on 12-hour shifts keeping an eye on the storm and warning residents of its path. See full story in this edition.

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Page 2

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 10

October 2017

Riverview High Hosts Trick Or Treaters At 29th Annual Chamber Event

By Kathy L. Collins

High School clubs will have additional games and activities for a small fee. There will also be an array of food vendors on site.

“The purpose of this special event is to create a safe place for children of all ages to have fun and share in the tradition of trick or treating while meeting local businesses, churches and other local organizations,” said Doran.

Children and dogs are encourThe 29th Annual Trick of Treat Street will take place at Riverview High School on Saturday, October 28 from 2:30-6:30 p.m.

Calling all Power Rangers, Shopkins, witches, ghosts and more. This year’s Trick or Treat Street at Riverview High School will take place on Saturday, October 28 from 2:30-6:30 p.m., offering a safe environment for the whole family to enjoy Halloween fun.

The event, which is a partnership of The Riverview Chamber of Commerce, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation and Riverview High School, features 100 booths from local businesses, churches and organizations offering treats, food and games for children in costume.

“This is an opportunity for the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce to exemplify its purpose of creating a family environment that assures the success of our community, our businesses and our members,” said Tanya Doran, Chamber Executive Director. “These participants and sponsors come from right here in our Riverview community and are excited to have the opportunity to give back.”

According to Doran, last year approximately 3,000 children of all ages attended the free event where they were given candy and small toys, played games, enjoyed bounce houses, ate food and won prizes. Riverview

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

aged to participate in costume contests with prizes by age groups, for just a $5 registration fee at the event. Dog owners are asked to give a $10 donation for registration which will benefit Critter Adoption and Rescue Effort, Inc. (C.A.R.E.). The dog contest will be judged by Four Paws Veterinary Hospital.

Businesses and organizations can still sign-up to host a booth and participate by dressing up, decorating the booth and distributing candy or small toys. Awards will also be given for the best booth design in several categories.

Event admission is free and parking is a $5 donation per car load.

Wristbands for children’s unlimited play on inflatable units and in a dodge ball area will be available free, courtesy of Monster Mash Sponsor, The Alley at SouthShore.

For more information, visit www.riverviewchamber.com or call 2345944. Riverview High School is located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.

Center Place Presents Bet A Buck Charity Auction For The Arts

By Kathy L. Collins

Center items, golf outPlace will ings, TV, a hold one of Coach travel its signature bag to Cuban fundraising cigars and even events, Bet a beach geta Buck away. There is Charity simply someAuction for thing for everythe Arts on one.

Saturday, Rodriguez October 14 explained, “The from 6:30 to money raised at 9:30 p.m. at this event goes Center back into our art Place locatprograms. This Support the arts and Center Place. Get your friends is how we keep ed at 619 and family together and head to Center Place on Vonderburg the doors open.

Saturday, October 14 for their very fun event, Bet a Dr. in We get no fundBuck Charity Auction for the Arts.

Brandon. ing from state, This is a great way to bid on really cool federal or local government. We rely soleitems and support the arts. Auction items ly on private donations, memberships, have been donated from local businesssponsors, special fundraising events and es. rentals of the space.”

Bet a Buck Charity Auction for the By joining in on this fun event, you Arts is fun for both men and women. The help support Center Place, a non-profit cost is just $15. For that you get an auccommunity art center that has been in the tion paddle, finger foods and beer and community for over 40 years. wine. You can purchase additional padRodriguez said, “In addition to giving dles for $5. Space is limited, so pick up easy access to the arts, we also provide your paddle at Center Place or make a a much needed rental facility for wedreservation by calling 685-8888. dings, parties, corporate meetings and Lisa Rodriguez, Marketing Director more at a reasonable rate. We are also for Center Place said, “The last Bet a used by other non-profit organizations for Buck was a fantastic event. So much so, meetings and their special fundraisers. that we had many requests for another We are all encompassing; thus, our name one, so we scheduled one for the fall.”

- the Place in the Center of our communiThere will be many items up for aucty.” tion from restaurant gift cards, original artPlease visit www.centerplacebranwork from local artists, massages, fashion don.org or call 685-8888.

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Page 4

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

HART Promises Shorter Trip Times, Better Service Through New Bus Network

By Tamas Mondovics

In harmony ership data, to with its promise of maximize shorter trip times, HART efficienbetter connections cy.” and improved The final service, plan means Hillsborough Area roughly 85 Regional Transit percent of (HART) is poised customers will to introduce its see service newest bus netimprove, work this month.

HART officials Appropriately said. named, Mission Residents Photo by HART Twitter can now use MAX has been HART Public scheduled by Google Maps Information Officer HART officials to Sandra Morrison talks to plan their to HART Maintenance (future) trip in begin serving its Manager Dale Smith three steps: customers on about the effort to Sunday, October Step 1: bring the agency’s newest bus network system, 8, promising to Enter your oriforever change the way the Tampa Bay gin and final destination as you currently region gets around. do.

Agency officials said that through Step 2: Instead of "Leave now," Mission MAX, HART is modernizing the select "Depart at" from the drop down system to deliver more efficient service menu. and higher frequencies on high-demand Step 3: Next, enter a date (beyond routes by means of aligning routes to pro- October 8, 2017). vide shorter trip times and better connecAn updated map and trip options tions, seven days a week. reflective of Mission MAX will then be proThe new network is also designed to vided. lay a foundation for future expansion, offiHART said that Mission MAX is just cials said. one piece of a plan toward as it continues “The redesigned system includes to grow and evolve over the next decade. route and schedule modifications based For info, visit the Mission MAX FAQ, on an extensive period of research, operor interact with HART on Facebook and ational considerations, and public input,” Twitter. For information visit said HART Maintenance Manager Dale www.gohart.org.

Smith.

HART CEO Katharine Eagan said that patrons wanted a service that fits the changing regional patterns of Tampa Bay and they wanted a transit system that gets them where they need to go with better connections and frequent service.

Eagan emphasized that Mission MAX transitions HART to more of a "grid" network that is focusing less on transfer centers, and more on direct, at-stop connections.

"Mission MAX creates a system that promotes public transit and connects more people to more places,” she said.

A key element of the new network— as it is explained by HART— is that while it may mean more transfers, with routes coming more frequently and schedules better entwined, riders should see overall quicker trips.

In a recent press release HART promised that improvements include a redesigned system, “…backed by route data analysis, including stop-by-stop rid-

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L O D G I N G

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Plaza Bella Invites Residents To Annual Plaza Bella Goes Pink Walk For The Cure

By Kathy L. Collins

Plaza Bella will Creager said, “I am hold its 10th Annual constantly humbled Plaza Bella Goes by the people that I Pink Walk For The meet who are fightCure on Saturday, ing a cancer diagnoOctober 21. You can sis. Specifically, peochoose either the ple like Terry Yavit, Diva Strut which who despite being in runs from Plaza hospice, continues to Bella to the make 300 bead The Community is invited to join the fight angels to wear on a Bloomingdale against cancer as the 10th Annual Plaza Library and back or necklace for the Bella Goes Pink Walk For The Cure on Saturday, October 21. the 5K Challenge walkers, and another Walk which goes 50 for the survivor from Plaza Bella to Nature's Way and goody bags.” Creager added, “This is back. Both walks are led by cancer suralso the fifth anniversary of Antoinette vivors and both begin at 9 a.m. This Cuellar’s passing. She had been a suryear’s theme is “Honor, Support, Fight”. vivor speaker for two years. Her family is Registration is open and the cost is planning a big turnout for the walk to $35 per person. Registrants decide honor her memory.” whether their donation supports the Brighton continues to be a tremenAmerican Cancer Society, The Outreach dous sponsor of this event. Brighton, Clinic or the YMCA’s Live Strong along with other vendors donate many Program. wonderful products that are put into gift For those who wish to honor family baskets. Tickets to win the gift baskets and friends who have been afflicted with will be sold beginning two weeks prior to cancer, you can donate $5 for a pink ribthe event. You do not have to be present bon. to win, so you can support the fight No funds raised at the 10th Annual against cancer by purchasing raffle tickPlaza Bella Goes Pink Walk For the Cure ets. are used to pay for expenses. The event Creager would also like to thank all is completely underwritten by The Green of the people in the community that help Boutique. Roz Creager, owner of The to put on this event including Chris Heath Green Boutique said, "The sponsorships of Big Beat Entertainment who has you see on the t-shirts do not pay for the donated his DJ services for the last 10 shirts. They are asked to choose which years. charity they would like their sponsor Plaza Bella is located at 1078 money to benefit. Every dollar raised is Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For more donated.” information on this event, please call 685This is the 10th year of the event.

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Page 5

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Chronister Appointed Sheriff...Continued From Page 1

W W W

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

By Tamas Mondovics

enforcement officer must always have an open mind.

“To Serve and Protect’’ will always be our mission,” he said adding that the key to successful policing is partnerships, from the neighborhoods to the Florida Governor Rick Scott is joined by Hillsborough County Sheriff David Gee and his wife Rhonda along with Florida State Attorney Pam civic associaBondi and Hillsborough County Colonel Chad Chronister, 49 and his tions to the wife Nikki DeBartolo for a photo last month during Chronister’s appoint- charities to ment as Hillsborough County Sheriff. the other govcialty units and leadership roles, ernmental agencies. including his current position as “I want to be a sheriff for all peoCommander of the Department of ple,” he said. “I am ready, willing and Operational Support. able to guide the sheriff’s office into Chronister also serves his comthe bright future. We have reduced munity as a board member of the crime for 10 straight years through Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay, working hard and working smart, and Friends of Hillsborough County Animal always with our community partners, Services, Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate and all in the face of a growing popuHigh School, the Jason Ackerman lation.

Foundation, More Health, Inc. and the Chronister hopes to expand the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. agency’s youth mentoring/intervention Chronister received his Bachelor’s partnerships, such as the one with the Degree and Master’s Degree in Boys & Girls Clubs, to focus even Criminology from St. Leo University more on the children. and is a graduate of the FBI National Col. Chronister’s appointment will Academy’s 260th session. become effective on October 1. He Following in the footsteps of his will remain sheriff until the next genermentor, Chronister’s law enforcement al election set for November 2018. philosophy includes that a law Dr. Amir Boules

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Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Send Goodwill To Deployed Troops By Participating In Annual Holiday Cards Event

Home Brew Store & Local Brewery Offers Brewing Expertise To Public

from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or you can bring them with you to the event.

Holiday Cards For The Troops was started in 2008 by Jeri Fontana, a retired member of the military and a Stampin’ Up demonstrator. Fontana made the cards on a small scale and Anyone ages 16 and older can support the troops by participating often personally in the 10th Annual Holiday Cards For The Troops set for Saturday, bore the cost of the October 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Center Place in Brandon. event.

Center Place Fine Arts and the In 2008, then Honorary Mayor of Community Roundtable present the 10th Brandon, Tammy Holmberg, co-owner of Annual Holiday Cards For The Troops on the Chick-fil-A at Lake Brandon Village, Saturday, October 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. teamed up with Fontana to get the comat Center Place, located at 619 munity more involved and to get many Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. more cards made in one day. It turned out Members of the community, 16 years to be a huge success. and older, can come together to assemIn 2011, the event was moved to ble thousands of cards which will be sent Center Place where it has been held ever to deployed service men and women. No since. Now, nearly 3,000 cards are made experience is necessary, and this is a free by more than 120 volunteers. community event.

Carole Stanton is the Chair of the The non-profit Support the Troops, Annual Holiday Cards For The Troops. located in Wesley Chapel, helps to distrib- Stanton said, “To date nearly 25,000 ute the cards. To celebrate the 10th cards have been created and sent to the Anniversary of Holiday Cards For Troops troops. It is like 25,000 hugs and smiles the committee is requesting donations to coming out of those little envelopes.” add to care packages sent to the troops.

If you would like to be a sponsor, The top five most requested items include make a monetary or Top Five donation or beef jerky, disposable razors, ground cofget more information on the Annual fee (no pods), toothpaste and new white Holiday Cards For The Troops, please athletic socks. Items can be dropped off contact Center Place at 685-8888 or at Center Place Monday through Friday email cp@centerplacebrandon.org.

Shaun Diana Zemo’s Goechner has Lushable Crush turned his hobby IPA, along with into a business other favorites such that he hopes will as Trapezoid prosper.

Belgium Triple and Bootleggers Ice Cream Brewworx sells Sammich Milk supplies to make Stout.

Different serviccustom beer, es that the brewery wine, cider and A unique brew being made at the brewery. offers include mead. The new instructional classes brew-on-premise feature allows cuson everything from wine tomers to create their making to beer brewing, own libations at the as well as tastings, prifacility. “We provide all vate parties, brew-onthe equipment you’ll premise, fermentation need to mix, brew, ferand cellaring, and botBootleggers Brewworx started in July tling and kegging. “We ment, rack, bottle or of last year. keg your finished are hands-on,” said Goechner. “We aren't like those other big product,” Goechner said. “We walk you stainless steel behemoth breweries. At through every step of the process and Bootleggers, we brew one-barrel batches, leave the drinking to you.” and it’s an eyes and hands-on process.”

Goechner, who builds fiber optic equipment full-time, has a love for making At Bootleggers they have live music beer. He took a trip to Belgium to sample on Fridays and Saturdays as well as retro beer when he became dissatisfied with game night on Wednesdays and karaoke the domestic beers available in the U.S. night on Thursdays. They are pet- and He decided later that he wanted to help kid-friendly, and have three TVs for spepeople create unique brews like the ones cial events. he discovered.

According to Goechner, the ultimate The brewery, which Goechner started goal for Bootleggers Brewworx is to in July of last year, is where he creates a expand the business to the size where dozen different beers that he uses for the they can distribute to local restaurants.

“This is the most fun place in Brandon to full tap bar, along with a dozen and a half craft beers from other breweries. Located be. If you like craft beer and wine, this is the ultimate place.” at 650 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, the comFor more information, visit their webpany is the only brew-on-premise facility in the area. The number one seller is their site at www.brewworx.com.

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October 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

By Kate Quesada

Fall Fun, Community Garage Sales & More Bloomingdale HOA Hosts Fall Festival

The Bloomingdale Homeowner’s Association (HOA) is hosting its annual Fall Festival at Bloomingdale High School on Saturday, October 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. this year.

The event is free to the community and will feature Halloween-themed family fun with a Trick or Treat Street area, children and pet costume contests and face painting. There will also be food trucks, bouncy houses, an obstacle course, crafts and games for children. Local businesses will also have the opportunity to set up tables at the event.

Bloomingdale High School is located at 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For more information, visit www.bloomingdaleHOA.com or call 2520252.

FishHawk Ranch Hosts CommunityWide Fall Garage Sale On Saturday, October 14 from 8 a.m.-12 Noon, residents throughout FishHawk Ranch will host garage sales offering new and gently used items for sale. The community has more than 5,000 homes and traditionally has very

Enjoy Family Fun, Art, Music & More This Fall At The Annual County Fair

By Michelle Colesanti

high participation in the semiannual sales.

The GPS address for FishHawk Ranch is 5721 Osprey Ridge Dr. in Lithia.

For more information, call 657-6629.

Market Day And Car Show In FishHawk

The first market day of the fall season will take place in FishHawk Ranch’s Park Square on Sunday, October 1 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The market, featuring many local food and craft booths, takes place the first Sunday of each month from October to May. For more information, call 657-6629.

In addition, the car show previously scheduled during Hurricane Irma, will also take place on Sunday, October 1 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at The Palmetto Club, located at 17004 Dorman Rd.

Strawberry Ridge Health Fest

Mark your calendars for October 10 when Valrico’s Strawberry Ridge community will lost its Health Fest at the clubhouse from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. The event will feature free health checks including glucose, blood pressure, bone density, cholesterol, Alzheimer’s, hearing and more. Enjoy a $5 healthy lunch, free coffee and iced tea and games and door prizes.

For more information, call 390-3315.

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Page 7

This year’s Hillsborough County Fair, which runs Thursday-Sunday, October 19-22 and 26-29, promises to be a lot of fun for the entire family.

Fall is in the air; and as the temperatures begin to slightly dip, it is time to get out and enjoy the season.

The 2017 Hillsborough County Fair will again take place at the County Fairgrounds, 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover from Thursday to Sunday, October 19-22 and October 26-29.

There will be lot of fun for the entire family. Check out exhibits featuring arts, crafts, photography and fine arts, along with an interactive butterfly exhibit and a lot of horticultural displays.

Local youth will show off their livestock in shows that will feature cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens and rabbits.

New this year will be the Youth Market Turkey Show and Sale where fairgoers can bid via silent auction on a market turkey raised by the youth exhibitors.

Check out the STEM exhibits, featuring science, technology, engineering and math exhibits and demos for kids of all ages. Hometown Hillsborough will feature interactive educational and historic exhibits. Local entertainment will include

Gospel Jams on Sundays from 2-5 p.m.

Free shows daily include the racing pigs, which will make you squeal in delight, a firefighter show and a circus.

New competitive events include a ‘Back to Your Roots’ gardening project for schools and youth, a Wheelbarrow Decorating Contest, and a Robotics Competition in the Arts and Crafts divisions.

The hours for the Fair will be Thursdays from 5-10 p.m., Fridays from 5-11 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m.- 11 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Gate admission price is $7 for adults. Students K-12 will cost $5, seniors $4 and children under 5 and military with ID are free.

Enjoy Dollar Days on both Thursdays, where the cost is $1 admission at the gate and most rides will be $1.

Armband specials for the rides will cost $20 from Friday through Sunday.

Special events will also be hosted at the arena costing $10 per event. If purchased in advance at one of the advanced ticket outlets, it also includes gate admission. A Rodeo will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, October 20 and 21. A Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday and Saturday, October 27 and 28 at 7 p.m. and a Demo Derby will take place on Sunday, October 29 at 3 p.m.

Visit www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com.

Page 8

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Culver's ButterBurgers And Fresh Frozen Custard Arrives In Brandon

Staff Report

State University with a business degree in finance and has worked in the hospitality industry for over 15 years. Carelli studied business at University South Florida.

Culver’s signature sandwich and guest-favorite, the ButterBurger®, is made with 100% fresh, never frozen, U.S. beef made cooked-to-order and topped with a lightly buttered and toasted bun.

Culver’s Fresh Frozen Custard gets its legendary creamy decadence from high-quality, fresh Wisconsin dairy from which every batch is crafted throughout the day. In addition to making their own creations, guests can customize their desserts with more than 30 mix-ins and toppings. Every day Culver’s offers three flavors of frozen custard: vanilla, chocolate and a Flavor of the Day. The restaurant also features many other delicious choices, including a dairy land delicacy real Wisconsin cheese curd, fresh garden salads, chicken sandwiches and fish dinners.

Kid’s meals are also available.

"Culver’s was founded on the idea of providing excellent service and highquality food made with the best ingredients," added Hutchins.

Connect with Culver’s of Brandon via eClub and Text Club. Sign up via www.culvers.com/connect and look forward to delicious discounts, coupons, menu news and a special treat for becoming a member.

Culver’s® of Brandon recently opened at 2470 Falkenburg Rd. It offers high-quality fast casual food cooked-to-order.

Culver’s® of Brandon recently opened its doors.

Known for its famous ButterBurger® and fresh frozen custard, the restaurant serves fast casual food cooked-toorder.

The restaurant is located at 2470 Falkenburg Rd. Hours of operation are Sunday to Thursday from 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m. with the exception of a few holidays.

“We’re thrilled to bring handcrafted, high-quality meals and desserts to the Brandon community,” said franchise owner/operator, Theresa Hutchins. "We think it’s a wonderful area and we are excited to become a contributing and active member of the community.”

Originally from Wisconsin, Hutchins and her fiancé/business partner Mike Carelli have strong family roots in the dairy state and are avid Packer fans.

Hutchins is a graduate from Florida

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Volume 16, Issue 10

Brandon Walmart Celebrates First Training Academy Graduation

By Tamas Mondovics

department-specific training.

“The training helps department managers and hourly supervisors to benefit in two specific ways, which in turn benefit our customers,” said Walmart About 70 Brandon area Walmart managers and department super- spokesperson visors from 26 store locations attended the first Walmart Training Erica Jones. “Our Academy in Brandon. The completion of the two-week long course associates gain was celebrated with an all out cap and gown graduation. both core retail Brandon area’s first Walmart Training skills, and the skills and knowledge to run Academy opened as well as celebrated their specific department. The Academies its first graduating class. are part of Walmart’s $2.7 billion commitThe two-week long class, hosted at ment to its associates.” the company’s Brandon store at 11110 “Our training academies help provide Causeway Blvd. welcomed 70 associassociates with the skills they need to ates in lead positions from 26 area stores succeed and advance, while creating a and is just one of 200 Training better and more consistent customer Academies Walmart has scheduled to experience,” said Walmart Academy open across the country by the end of Manager Daniel Honores. “Skills training 2017. increases productivity, confidence and Each academy is said to train assoknowledge which leads to greater job ciates from approximately 25 nearby satisfaction, personal and professional stores. growth and helps make working at Excited about the course, officials Walmart a smart career choice.” explained that Walmart Training “As they are returning to their own Academies are a dedicated facility locatstore locations, academy graduates are ed in, or adjacent to, a Walmart much more confident of running their Supercenter where the company’s frontdepartments,” Jones added. line supervisors will receive hands-on Walmart is reportedly training more training that combines the classroom and than 140,000 associates per year. the sales floor.

Additional information about Walmart Areas of study include leadership, can be found at www.walmart.com. on merchandising, operations, technology Facebook @walmart and on Twitter at and customer service, in addition to the @walmart.

October 2017

Page 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Fifth Annual Gems & Jeans Ball Benefits The Sylvia Thomas Center

Staff Report

The Sylvia create one-of-aThomas Center kind art masterfor Adoptive & pieces that will be Foster available for purFamilies, a chase the night of local non-profit the event. Clik-methat provides Quik will be on comprehensive hand with their post-adoption photo booth and support to keep props. When you the ‘forever’ in need a break from forever famidancing to the live lies, will hold its Last year’s Gems & Jeans Ball guests enjoyed an music of Smakk, evening of fun while benefitting The Sylvia Fifth Annual you can glam it up Thomas Center.

Gems & Jeans in the photo booth Ball on Friday, November 3. for the perfect take home gift.

“We are excited this year to have The Since its incorporation in 2000, The Barn at Winthrop as our great new Sylvia Thomas Center has been a supvenue. This locale allows plenty of space portive, guiding resource for adoptive chilfor dancing in your lil’ black dress or fancy dren and their families in Hillsborough jeans and boots at their beautiful indoorCounty. The Center strives to help the outdoor setting. We are excited to welentire family cope and adjust as children come back the local band, Smakk, to and teens transition and thrive in their forentertain our guests,” said Pearl ever homes. Thanks to successful theraChiarenza, Community Liaison for the peutic and supportive services the Center Sylvia Thomas Center. has a greater than 99 percent success Tickets to this event are just $40 per rate at keeping forever families together. individual or $75 per couple. You will Funds from the event will enable the enjoy an evening of great food, a full bar, Sylvia Thomas Center to continue providraffle prizes, silent auction and the ing healing services for adopted and foschance to win a diamond and Tanzanite ter children and their families. pendant set. The Gold and Diamond There will be live music, great food, Source has donated an oval Tanzanite drinks and a silent auction; all for a wonand diamond slide pendant set in 14K derful cause - adoptive families. Every yellow gold with an 18" 14K yellow gold year this event gets bigger and better, so cable link chain, a total value of $454. do not miss out. Join in, along with Each event ticket purchased is another friends, sponsors and supporters, for a chance to win. fun night out.

Additionally, for the fourth year in a To purchase tickets, visit https://gemrow, Tony Lima will bring local artists to sandjeansball5thannual.eventbrite.com.

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Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Halloween Activities Include Tricks, Treats & Dress Up FunBy Tamas ForMondovics Kids Be prepared to enjoy some frightening and not-so-frightening fun around town in October.

Fall Festival At Hawthorne Village Retirement Community

Bring the family to Hawthorne Village Retirement Community on Friday, October 27 from 6-8 p.m.to enjoy fall fun. There will be face painting, a pumpkin carving contest, scavenger hunt, games, bounce house and pumpkin patch photos.

Hawthorne Village of Brandon is located at 851 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 661-8998 or visit www.HawthorneVillageofBrandon.com.

Busch Gardens Extends Sesame Street Halloween Event Throughout October

Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay welcomes back Sesame Street® Kids’ Weekends this October, with an extended four weeks of Halloween fun each Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Beloved Sesame Street characters, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird, Elmo, Grover, Rosita, and other popular faces will make appearances and will be dressed in their own special Halloween costumes.

Each fun-filled weekend will feature trick-or-treating and fall festival activities including a hay bale maze,

dance parties, games and character parades throughout the day as well as very special surprises for each theme.

Children are welcome to wear Halloween costumes and every weekend is jam-packed with brand-new events and activities.

For more information, visit BuschGardens.com or call 1-888-8005447.

not in costume, it is regular admission pricing. Kids 2 and under are free.

Frights

effects and sudden actions. If you are sensitive to any of these elements, suffer from asthma, heart conditions, are prone to seizures or any type of medical problem, you are advised not to ride.

The cost is $25 plus tax on Thursday and Sundays and $35 plus tax on Friday and Saturday. Boarding time takes place five to ten minutes prior to departing. Cruise times are 7, 8, 9 10 and 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights and 7, 8 9 and 10 p.m. on Thursday and Sunday nights.

Additional boat times may be available based on demand. Cruises may be cancelled without notice due

Pirate Water Taxi Presents River Of

Stay close to your fearless captain on this journey to uncover the dark secrets hidden amongst the waterways of Tampa. Travel along the haunted passes filled with the sights and sounds of the betrayed and undead. Brave your way through unexpected terrors lurking on the river, Family Fun At Florida Aquarium’s including live, interactive entertainGuppyween ment. River of Visit the Florida Frights is an Aquarium on intense advenSaturday and ture and chilling Sunday, October cruise experi28 and 29 from 1-5 ence! Book your p.m. for a spooktickets in tacular time at advance to Guppyween, where ensure availabilikids can trick or ty. treat throughout This is a 40 the Aquarium. minute cruise There will be famiinto the ly-friendly enterunknown. It is tainment and a sea recommended Youngsters will enjoy dressing up at of candy in a safe for adults and the Florida Aquarium’s Guppyween setting. All teens, but event on Saturday and Sunday, Aquarium exhibits, younger children may October 28 and 29 from 1-5 p.m. including the new attend if parents outdoor plaza Fin bar and Splash Pad, choose to bring them (we recommend will be open. no kids under 10 and kids 18 and The cost is regular admission younger need an adult with them). You pricing for adults, kids (11 years and will experience intense audio, lighting, under) in costume are $10 for those low visibility, strobe-lights, fog, special

Prepare for a river of frights on the Pirate Water Taxi on select nights in October.

to weather or other circumstances.

A Boarding Photo will be available for purchase. Beer and wine will also be available for purchase on board.

To purchase tickets, visit www.piratewatertaxi.com/river-offrights. Email additional events to michelle@ospreyobserver.com.

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October 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 11

RobZFitness Moves Fitness & Training Studio To New FishHawk Blvd. Location

By Michelle Caceres

her lose 35 pounds in the past ten months.

Sweeting became a client last year after a trip to California to see her son, a warrant officer in the Navy. He lives in a twostory home and noticed how climbing the stairs caused her to become short of breath. “He told me I had to go home and find someplace to exercise,” said Sweeting, who came home and signed up with RobZFitness.

When she worried storm Sharon Sweeting works on muscle strength at RobZFitness, at its new location on FishHawk Blvd. surge from Hurricane Irma would destroy some belongings in her After more than 11 years nestled in home, she boxed the important things up the Stein-Mart anchored Lithia Crossing and moved them to her own home’s secshopping center, RobZFitness is moving ond floor. “It took me no time and I could to FishHawk Ranch. Its new location at easily do it,” she said.

16315 FishHawk Blvd., west of RobZFitness offers free fitness evaluWalgreen’s and across the street from the ations, where he discusses goals and FishHawk Sports Complex, features a expectations, measures weight and body 2,600 square foot state-of-the art personfat, determines endurance, strength and al training and group fitness studio.

“I’m a FishHawk resident and most of flexibility and discusses expected outcomes. To celebrate its 11th year in busimy clients live here so it seemed like the ness, any new personal training client perfect marriage to move my studio who signs up for three months or longer here,” said owner Rob Zulkoski. before October 31st will get 11% off perThe new location will give him the sonal training memberships. ability to expand his program offerings.

In addition to personal training, the “With the FishHawk Sports Complex studio offers group training and aeroacross the street we’ll be able utilize the bics/Bootcamp/Les Mills fitness classes. fields and the expansive trail system.”

RobZFitness is open Monday – RobZFitness has a proven track Thursday 5 a.m. – 8 p.m. On Friday and record for helping clients achieve their fitness and weight loss goals and has more Saturday, it stays open until the last client finishes their training session. than a hundred testimonials online.

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Page 12

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 10

College Nannies, Sitters And Tutors Business Brings Role Models To Your Home

Barrington Middle School FFA Chapter Headed To Indianapolis For National Convention

zation’s ‘role models.’ The nannies, sitters and tutors under Galloway are expected to be more than just that: they are to invest in the lives of the kids they help, with the ultimate goal of preparing children to go to college.

The role models include fulltime and on-call nannies who watch children after school and when parents decide to go out.

Most of the role models employed are 20-24, with some additional older nannies that have years of experience. Galloway, who started the franchise earlier this year, said the tutoring side of his business will be taking off soon.

College Nannies, Sitters and Tutors of Lithia and “We want the child to have an Valrico offer full-time and on-call nannies who experience,” Galloway said. “So, will be role models to your children when you need someone to watch them. at the end of that experience, he or she wants his role model to In addition to what the name sugcome back. They look at mom and dad gests, College Nannies, Sitters and going out as a chance for fun.”

Tutors of Lithia and Valrico offers area opposed to traditional day care As families role models. centers, College Nannies, Sitters and Steve Galloway, owner and general Tutors of Lithia and Valrico offers a manager, said he was drawn to the more unique and personal experience. franchise because he wanted to do All care is conducted in the family’s more to help families and invest in his home, with role models exclusively community. Galloway felt that College devoted to that child or children, Nannies, Sitters and Tutors, a service that provides homework help and child- instead of supervising a whole classroom. care, was more of an organization that “We have extensive background caters to families. checks and interviewing,” Galloway “These are not just people to come said.

“We have very high standards for over and watch TV with children,” people we are sending into these the Galloway said. “They are expected to homes.” engage with children, to do things that For more information on role modare creative and enjoyable.” els and family care, visit www.collegeGalloway is referring to the organinanniesandtutors.com/LithiaFL.

every year at state convention.

The 2017 Florida FFA Association State Conduct of Meetings LDE champion team members include David Ferrell, Logan Goodyear, Will Haxton, Carter Howell, Erin Barrington Middle School FFA Chapter is heading to McAneny, Brynne Indianapolis for the National FFA Convention in October.

Murphy and Aidan The Barrington Middle School Routh, supported by advisors Brittany Future Farmers of America (FFA) Coleman and Greg Lehman and the Chapter has big plans this fall. In Barrington Middle School FFA Alumni.

October, a team of seven students will They will be the first middle school to represent the school, Hillsborough represent Florida nationally in this County and Florida at the National event and the first from this very sucFFA Convention in Indianapolis, cessful chapter.

Indiana.

The Barrington FFA Chapter was This past summer, the Barrington also recently recognized as one of the FFA ‘Conduct of Chapter Meetings’ top ten chapters in America for team won the Florida state competition Strengthening Agriculture. During the in Orlando, besting other chapters national convention in October, the within Florida, the majority of which students will give a presentation on were high school students. The FFA the chapter’s “U-Pick” strawberry proConduct of Chapter Meetings gram, competing to be named the top Leadership Development Event is chapter in America. designed to stimulate young FFA The Barrington Middle School FFA members' knowledge and understandChapter consistently brings home the ing of traditions and ceremonies, parhardware, representing the local area liamentary procedure and leadership and winning event after event. The skills. In this event, teams of students Florida FFA Organization sponsors 25 from grades six, seven, eight and nine Career Development Events (CDEs) take a preliminary written test in the each year. For Academic Year 2016spring, and then the top qualifiers 2017, the Barrington Middle School advance to the state level to perform a FFA Chapter placed 1st in the state in mock meeting, complete with opening six of these events and 2nd or 3rd ceremonies, parliamentary procedure, place in four others. debate, motions and closing cereFor more information on FFA, visit monies. The state contest is held www.ffa.org.

By Eric Heubusch

Staff Report

October 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 13

Page 14

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sheriff's Office Hosts K-9 Graduation

By Tamas Mondovics

certification course as well as a 100-hour narcotics or bomb enhancement course.

The agency is proud of its K-9 Unit that includes about 24 dogs along with their deputy handlers.

The law enforcement K-9s include German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office welcomes a new K-9 German to the department. The agency recently celebrated the Shepherd/Belgian graduation of a number of its K-9s and their handlers.

Malinois Mix, Bloodhounds, and a The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Labrador Retriever.

Office was pleased to celebrate the Each dog has a specialty, such as graduation of a number of its law bomb or narcotics detection or fugitive enforcement K-9s last month. apprehension. Bloodhounds are used The ceremony officiated by the primarily for tracking and missing peragency’s newly appointed Sheriff, sons cases. A dog joins the Sheriff's Colonel Chad Chronister, was held at Office when it is between 1-3 years old. the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Once certified, the canine is given Aviation and Canine Unit, located at its own Sheriff's Office personal identifi5808 Wilkins Rd. in Tampa. cation number and badge. The dogs are The event also welcomed three a treasured part of the Sheriff's Office Citrus County Sheriff's Office handlers and any law enforcement agency. and their K-9 partners.

State laws help protect law enforceThe HCSO group included ment canines by making it a felony to Corporal Danny Connell and K-9 injure or kill a police dog.

Ceasar, Deputy Matt Moyer and K-9 “These dogs are not just working Tanto and handler Deputy Jessica members of HCSO but are our family,” Ennis. said Colonel Larry McKinnon. “We owe The Citrus County Sheriff's Office it to them to do everything possible to units included Deputy John Behnen protect them while they are in harm’s and K-9 Krennic, Deputy David Miller way. They are trained to protect our and K-9 Anakin and Deputy TJ Amato deputies and citizens of Hillsborough and K-9 Calum.

County.”

The handlers and their K-9s graduFor more information about HCSO, ated from the basic 480-hour canine please visit www.hcso.tampa.fl.us.

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Page 15

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

A Visit To The Seventh Annual Fox Squirrel Corn Maze Is A Delight For Young And Old

By Kathy L. Collins

this year.

Janet Futch said, “The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze is home to one of the top five pumpkin patches named in the Tampa Bay area in 2014. We continue to have the most beautiful pumpkins around, making it the perfect backdrop for those priceless photo opportunities and for taking home one of the best pumpkins for decoration or carving.”

Futch added, “You might even spot Sherman, one of the notorious fox squirrels that inhabit the ranch, to which the name of the maze is owed.”

A visit to the Single R Ranch is truly a unique experience. It is nice to get out into the country during Florida’s gloriously warm fall days and have some good old-fashioned fun. While there, walk through the maze, go on a Come visit Futch Family’s Single R Ranch in tractor pulled hayride, pick out a great lovely Plant City and for the Seventh Annual pumpkin and enjoy some good food. A Fox Squirrel Corn Maze. stroll through the arts and crafts vendor The Futch Family is pleased to presarea is lots of fun too. ent the Seventh Annual Fox Squirrel Corn Futch said, “So, if you are in the Maze beginning on Saturday, October 7. mood for a bit of problem solving or just The Futch Family’s Single R Ranch is want some good old fashion fun out in located at 3002 Charlie Taylor Rd. in histhe country, the Futch Family’s Fox toric Plant City. The country fun will take Squirrel Corn Maze is the place to be this place through Sunday, October 29 on October. Bring the whole family and enjoy Saturdays and Sundays only from 10 Florida’s amazing fall weather.” a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests are asked to exit Admission is $11 plus tax for adults the ranch by 6 p.m.

(18 and older) and $10 plus tax for chilThis year’s maze is a labyrinth of dren (three to 17 years old). Children two twisted pathways that is truly spectacular and under are free. Card carrying and fun. There is approximately 1.5 miles HEROES receive $2 off admission. of paths cut through five acres of corn For information, visit stalks intended to challenge all who enter. www.FutchEntertainment.com and follow In addition to the maze, there will be two on Facebook at giant slides and two “punkin’ slingshots” www.facebook.com/fscornmaze.

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Page 16

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 10

Voice Winner Joins Michael W. Smith And Amy Grant To Bring Annual Christmas Tour To Amalie Arena

By Amanda Boston

After gobbling up the last of the Thanksgiving leftovers, are you eager for the sights and sounds of Christmas?

If so, mark your calendar for Sunday, November 26 at 7:30 p.m. and join Grammy® winners Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant for their annual Christmas tour. The 20-city holiday tour makes a stop in Tampa’s Amalie Arena—just three days after Turkey Day. With their extensive repertoires, Michael W. Smith and Grant will tickle the audience's ears with classic Christmas carols, chart-topping favorites Photo courtesy of Cameron Powell and the latest releases from Christian and Country singer Amy Grant and contemGrant’s album Tennessee porary Christian artist Michael W. Smith bring their Christmas and Michael W. annual Christmas tour to Tampa with special guest Jordan Smith, the season nine winner of The Voice.

Smith’s album The Spirit of Christmas. décor.

Special guest Jordan Smith, the In support of Compassion season nine winner of NBC’s The Michael W. Smith and International, Voice, is invited back for an encore Grant have arranged for a performance of his holiday album Meet & Greet’ before ‘Compassion ‘Tis The Season. The popular seathe concert for up to 200 people who sonal tour will also feature a full commit to sponsoring a Compassion symphony orchestra with the accomchild through their website plished conductor David Hamilton at www.meetamyandmichael.com. The the helm.

‘Meet & Greet’ is an opportunity to Adding to the seasonal sights, learn more about the Compassion sounds and spirit, is Balsam Hill®, the artificial Christmas tree company. International ministry and will include a photo opportunity with the artists.

Balsam Hill® is sponsoring the tour In the tour’s official press and will visually enhance the stage release, Michael W. Smith said, production with traditional Christmas

“Amy and I have both sponsored children through Compassion International literally for decades.” He continued, “So, I’m especially excited that we are using our time before the show to meet people who sponsor Compassion children. It seems like such a great opportunity – especially this time of year.”

Individuals who sign up to sponsor a Compassion child will receive two ‘Meet & Greet’ tickets per sponsorship. The ‘Meet & Greet’ tickets do not provide access to the concert. Concert tickets can be purchased at the Amalie Arena McDonald’s Ticket Office or through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com. Concert event tickets start at $35.75.

“Amy has a song that says, ‘It’s Going To Be A Christmas To Remember.’ That’s our goal with this night,” continued Michael W. Smith. “I hope we create a memory for everyone that attends and, at the same time, we impact the lives of some very special children all over the world.”

October 2017

Rosati’s Chicago Pizza Provides Tasty Fresh Ingredients In All Its Foods The aroma of homemade pizza dough being baked in the oven with all of its fresh ingredients and Italian flavor moved up through the nostrils as individuals stepped foot inside Rosati’s Chicago Pizza in Valrico. This Chicago-based, familyowned pizza franchise opened in Mt. Prospect, Illinois in 1964. All of the recipes are the same at every restaurant.

Owners Whitney Tucker and her husband Marshall Tucker established Rosati’s Chicago Pizza in Valrico on February 20 of this year.

This will be the first one to open in Hillsborough County. With room for growth, the Tucker’s plan on developing at least four other restaurants in this county. To date, more than 200 restaurants can be found throughout the United States.

Additionally, this location offers catering, carryout, delivery and individuals can order online. For delivery it is an additional $3, but does not require a minimum purchase amount. People can sign up on the Rosati’s Chicago Pizza website and join the E-Club to receive emails with coupons for birthdays and much more. In

Page 17

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

By Tatiana Ortiz

addition, check out their Facebook page www.facebook.com/rosatispizzavalrico/ for upcoming football specials.

Lastly, Rosati’s Chicago Pizza provides a wide variety of food items on its menu such as pizza, chicken parm, fried ravioli and much more. It offers traditional thin crust, double dough, gluten free crust and deep dish just to name a few. Individuals could also purchase a deep dish pizza called take and bake, which can be made at home. It comes in three flavors with prices varying.

The $5 lunch special consists of a jumbo slice of either cheese, pepperoni or sausage pizza with a 20 oz. coke product from 11 a.m.3 p.m. for carryout only everyday. The restaurant gives a 10% discount to all military personnel and first responders. Overall, “We are excited to bring real authentic Chicago food to the community,” Whitney said.

For information, visit www.rosatispizza.com/location/valrico-fl/. It is located at 3437 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico (Publix Shopping Center). Open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday 11 a.m.- 11 p.m.

Call 643-1003.

New Yoga House Is An Oasis In The Heart Of Brandon

By Kate Quesada

The heart of retail section offering localBrandon is not an ly made jewelry and a stuarea that most peodio featuring many large ple would associate windows overlooking a with the word tranquil conservation pond. serene, but The It took Vitoria less than Yoga House, which three months to transform opened last month the location from an outwith a goal of bringdated medical office to a ing ‘’Yoga to chic studio with open ceilEveryone’, is an ings, reclaimed wood feaoasis of calm in the tures and hygienic cork middle of the floors. The studio is also bustling medical equipped with ceiling district. mounted radiant heaters Owned and for therapeutic detoxifying operated by Tampa hot practices. native and long“I sacrificed a lot of term Brandon resimat space to make sure Brandon resident Diane Vitoria recently opened The Yoga House dent Diane Vitoria, we had a comfortable offering Yoga for Everybody. the unique 1,000reception area where peosq.-ft.-studio offers a large number of ple can relax before and after class,” said classes for all skill levels and preferences Vitoria, who previously worked in the at times that fit most busy schedules. medical field but has been teaching yoga “There is a misconception that yoga at studios throughout the area since is only for people who are very flexible,” 2016. “We originally wanted to find a said Vitoria, who started practicing in small house to turn into a studio but the 2010 to improve her athletic abilities as a view and location of this building sold us long distance runner. “I want to help the right away.” community realize that it is not about The Yoga House team also offers being able to touch your toes, there is a monthly Happy Hour Yoga sessions and type of yoga that will benefit everyone.” full moon outdoor yoga, in addition to Vitoria has assembled a team of other classes scheduled to take place in teachers to help her offer a variety of the communal outdoor area. classes from low-impact and restorative The Yoga House is located at 505 yoga to the more intensive power classEichenfeld Dr. Suite 106 in Brandon. For es, with many traditional and non-tradimore information, call 763-2522 or visit tional options in between. www.theyogahousebrandon.com. Class The studio is made up of an inviting schedules and pricing information is also reception area with refreshments and a available on the website.

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Page 18

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Women’s Resource Center Annual Luncheon Raises Funds And Awareness

By Tamas Mondovics

Annual Drug Take Back Provides Safe Way To Dispose Of Prescription Drugs In its 11th year, OMC has collected close to 8,000 pounds of prescription drugs and medications, a number that will continue to grow.

In recent years, the drug take back A large load of old and unwanted medication from several area assisted living facilities, is collected by HCSO deputies during an earlier Operation Medicine Cabinet drug take-back event at Hawthorne Assisted Living Facility in Brandon.

The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for later this month and local agencies and businesses are once again joining forces to assist residents with a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of expired or unwanted prescription drugs.

Several locations and a variety of dates and times are planned that provide the ideal locations as drop off spots.

One such event is the annual Operation Medicine Cabinet (OMC) a joint effort by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), Home Instead Senior Care of Sun City and the Hawthorne Village of Brandon Assisted Living Facility.

The three organizations have teamed up for the event scheduled for Friday, October 6 from 9 a.m. to noon at Hawthorne Village located at 859 W. Lumsden Rd. According to event hosts and organizers, aside from collecting, OMC also aims to educate the general public about the potential for abuse.

Officials emphasized that medications should never be flushed down the toilet or drain, which can cause contamination of the Florida aquifer and wastewater treatment system.

effort at Hawthorne resulted in deputies collecting an average of 500 pounds of unwanted or expired prescription medication.

Home Instead Senior Care franchise owner Kristi Campbell said, “The message to our residents is about protecting both our elderly as well as our young residents, our families and our environment.”

To support the effort, the HCSO also installed permanent drug drop-off boxes at its five 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.

The permanent drug drop-off initiative is not a replacement of the department's annual Operation Medicine Cabinet campaign.

For more information about HSCO, please visit www.hcso.tampa.fl.us.

On Thursday, November 2 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) of Tampa will host its annual ‘Divine Appointments’ luncheon at Bay Life Church in Brandon.

The WRC of Tampa was founded in 2003 by a group of women who had overcome personal struggles. The faithbased nonprofit organization dispenses emergency assistance to individuals and families in crisis.

The WRC connects its clients to available resources to help with basic needs such as food, housing, transportation and medical assistance. As the WRC provides clients with short-term assistance, it also points them to the eternal love and hope found in Jesus Christ.

The luncheon is free, but the WRC is asking local churches and businesses to sponsor tables of eight for $250. The fundraising event will also feature a raffle and a tour of the WRC. Executive Director Cheryl Hickman explained how the luncheon is an opportunity for community members to learn more about the WRC mission and hear personal testimonies from past clients.

“I came to the WRC to ask for help with an electricity bill in 2013, not knowing that this organization would change my

By Amanda Boston

life,” said Skye, a former client with WRC. Since its inception, the WRC has helped transform more than 40,000 The Women's Resource Center lives. Hickman opened the Little White expressed her House Emergency Shelter in April 2016. appreciation toward the many hands involved in restoring the hope and dignity in others.

She praised the churches, businesses and volunteers who help sustain the organization.

WRC also offers its clients continued support through financial training, employment seeking, personal coaching and temporary housing. In April of 2016, the WRC opened the Little White House Emergency Shelter with assistance from New Hope United Methodist Church in Brandon. The shelter provides transitional housing for moms and their children.

Skye concluded her story. “Without the Women’s Resource Center, I may have kept the lights on, and I may have found a job. But I would not have become who I am in my walk with the Lord or who I am able to be for so many other people now,” she said.

Divine Appointments will take place at Bay Life Church, located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. To attend or sponsor the luncheon, call 309-3357. For more information or to find out how you can support WRC, visit its website at www.wrctampa.org.

Experience Different Cultures at Around the World Vacation Night Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take a cruise vacation? Want to experience an all-inclusive resort before traveling? Now you can at the Dream Vacations Around the World Vacation Night. We will provide your passport to fun as you learn about exotic destinations and Norwegian Cruise Line. Highlights of the evening include

1. Funtastic Photos –

Take home a souvenir photo from our photo booth

2. A Taste of the World – Sample cuisine from around the world 3. Relaxation Spa Spot – Pamper yourself with a free massage 4. Just for Kids –

Will make a craft and receive a gift

“Many people are unaware of all the activities aboard a cruise ship and at an all-inclusive resort,” said Jenifer Breaux, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in Lithia. “To make it a fun night, everyone, including kids, will be provided a mock passport and will travel around the world and experience everything they would on vacation, without even leaving the state. We are so lucky that night that a Norwegian Cruise Line representative will also be with us offering a special incentive to all who attend and book a cruise.”

For more information or to be matched with the vacation of your dreams, please call Jenifer Breaux of Dream Vacations at 813.667.7000 or visit www.JBVacationPros.com.

About Dream Vacations Launched in 2016, Dream Vacations A CruiseOne Company is a franchise opportunity that is part of World Travel Holdings, the world’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure Travel Company.

Dream Vacations franchisees have unrivaled buying power to offer the best prices and exclusive offers when selling memorable vacation experiences such as cruises, resort stays and land tours.

October 2017

Tampa YMCA Welcomes New CEO

Trans-Siberian Orchestra To Perform The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve

By Tamas Mondovics

The Tampa thank you to Looby for his Metropolitan Area leadership and significant YMCA was pleased to contributions to the Y over announce last month the years. the naming of Matt It is safe to say that Mitchell as its new Chief Mitchell has big shoes to fill Executive Officer who and in his new role, he will will begin his new role in be responsible for taking mid-October. the lead on the Y’s current According to Y offifoundation and strategic cials, Mitchell’s selection plan. “During our search for is the result of a fivea new CEO, we looked at month search by the Y’s candidates from all over the CEO Search Committee country, but Matt stood out Matt Mitchell was recently to find a replacement for among the rest,” said named as the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA new Tampa YMCA Governance Tom Looby who is retirChief Executive Officer. ing at the close of next Board Chair Al Colby, who month after 37 years of serving. also chaired the CEO Search Committee Looby spoke highly of his tenure with made up of seven voting members from the Y, the last 10 years which were in the Tampa YMCA’s Governance Board Tampa. “It’s been a joy and privilege serv- and community. “His energy and vision ing the communities of Atlanta, Nashville, for the Tampa YMCA is exactly what we Winston-Salem and Tampa through the Y, were looking for in a leader.” accomplishing many good and exciting Mitchell joins the Tampa Y with more things at each stop,” Looby said. “Among than 20 years of experience with the Y, my fondest Y memories will be all the including most recently serving as the many wonderful staff and volunteer leadExecutive Vice-President and Chief ers I’ve worked with over the years, Operating Officer of the YMCA of Greater including a talented and mission-driven San Antonio for the past five years. team here in Tampa.” Mentioning some of Prior to that, Mitchell worked for the Looby’s accomplishments during his time YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee in variin Tampa, Y officials included the Y being ous leadership roles including vice presinamed Non-Profit of the Year, received dent of center operations, group vicethe Bank of America Neighborhood president, senior branch executive direcBuilder’s Award, launched the Sulphur tor and branch director.

Springs Neighborhood of Promise initiaMitchell holds a degree in tive, created the Teen Achievers program Kinesiology and Exercise Science from for at-risk students and enacted over $30 the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. million in capital improvements to Y faciliHe has moved to the area with his wife, ties.

Nicole, both of whom grew up in the In a recent press release, the Tampa upper Midwest.

YMCA staff and board issued a heartfelt Visit www.tampaymca.org.

Staff Report

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) announced its highly-anticipated 2017 Winter Tour. Over the past 20-plus years, TSO has become a critically-acclaimed, multi-platinum, musical powerhouse, and its annual winter tour is a beloved, multigenerational holiday tradition. 2017’s tour, a completely updated presentation of TSO’s unforgettable The Ghosts of Christmas Eve, is set to begin on November 16 and will visit more than 60 cities, for 100-plus performances, before concluding on December 30.

TSO returns to Tampa on Sunday, December 17 to perform at Amalie Arena, which will host two spectacular shows at 3 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets for both shows go on sale Friday, September 15 at 10 a.m. with a portion of the proceeds benefitting local charities courtesy of TSO. TSO’s tour will be a celebration of the art and accomplishments of the lauded group’s late creator/composer/lyricist, Paul O’Neill, and his inimitable creation, which he dubbed “Rock Theater.” Prior to his untimely passing, O’Neill worked tirelessly with his close-knit team preparing an exciting new take on The Ghosts of

Christmas Eve for the 2017 tour. Fans will experience this exciting stage spectacle, including new awe-inspiring effects, and staging, certain to make the story even more engaging for fans.

Based on TSO’s multi-platinum DVD and long running PBS fundraiser, The Ghosts of Christmas Eve, the rock opera features such enduring fan-favorites as Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24, O’ Come All Ye Faithful, Good King Joy, Christmas Canon, Music Box Blues, Promises To Keep, and This Christmas Day. The 2017 tour will also boast a rousing second set containing more of TSO’s greatest hits and fanpleasers.

As in all previous years, a portion of every ticket sold benefits select local charities. To date, more than $13 million has been distributed from TSO to worthy charities all across North America.

You can purchase tickets at the McDonald’s® Ticket Office at AMALIE Arena, Ticketmaster outlets and at Ticketmaster.com. Order tickets by phone by calling 800-745-3000. Ticket prices are $32.25, $42.25, $52.25, $62.25 and $72.25. Prices do not include facility fee or service charges. Advanced parking passes are available at Ticketmaster.com or the ticket office.

Visit amaliearena.com or call 3012500 for information. Visit www.transsiberian.com for more details.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Page 20

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 10

Music Showcase And FAOPA Offer A Great Fall Lineup Of Groups And Workshops

Oakfield Dental Offers Easy Saturday Appointments And Much More

Music Showcase in Brandon and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) have announced a wonderful and exciting season.

There is truly something for everyone.

New this year, violinists with at least one year of experience can join Violin Rockestra. According to Jeanne Machine Violin Rockestra Director, “Violin Rockestra is an ensemble focusing on alternative music made playable for violin. We focus mostly on rock, jazz and pop genres. We also learn about basic composition and write original music.”

Machin added, “I started this program to enrich the musical experience of violinists and provide them with experiences not typically available in traditional orchestra settings.”

Violin Rockestra meets on Saturdays

Providing highServices available quality dental care in a include general, cosmetic, stress-free environment preventative and restorais the motto at Oakfield tive dentistry as well as Dental, which Dr. Amir extractions and implants.

Boules opened in “We believe in not only 2016. getting patients to healthier teeth, but also to a “We offer a patientmore confident smile,” he focused approach and said adding that the office passion to make denalso offers tistry something comZoom fortable and even Whitening, enjoyable, rather than which is an insomething to be office whitening feared,” said Dr. Dr. Amir Boules, Owner of Oakfield treatment that gives Boules. “We believe Dental, with his wife Melanie. The couple married just over a month instant results; Minor that a child's early ago.

Tooth Movement (MTM); experiences at the and, Invisalign, which use clear trays to dental office is formative in setting the straighten teeth. person up for dental health in the future The office is completely digital, and one of our greatest joys is seeing a dental-phobic patient little by little become including x-rays, which minimizes radiation exposure to the patient. less fearful of seeing the dentist.”

While Dr. Boules has been busy with From the moment guests enter the his new practice over the past year, he office, from the coffee and tea bar to also recently married his wife Melanie, essential oil diffusers to full-wall windows who he met in dental school. She is joinwith views of plants and birds in each ing the practice on Fridays and brings room; it is obvious that the goal is to crewith her, her experience working with chilate a comfortable environment. dren as well as with Invisalign.

“Our biggest asset is our team, Oakfield Dental is located at 1457 whom I hand-picked for their attention to Oakfield Dr. Hours are Mondaydetail, compassion and genuine desire to Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.help others,” he added.

4 p.m. Fridays are nicknamed "Kid Adding to all of that, Oakfield Dental also offers Saturday appointments from 9 Friendly Friday." Although the office sees children every day of the week, on a.m.-4 p.m. “We chose to open on Fridays, the staff decorates the office to Saturdays because we work ourselves be more comfortable to its young friends. and know how inconvenient it is to take Visit www.oakfielddental.com or call off a day of work for a doctor's appoint813-906-8808 for further information. ment,” Dr. Boules explained.

By Kathy L. Collins

for a part in the Jr. Showcase Players’ production of Elf Jr. which will be held in December. Jr. Showcase Players meet on Wednesdays from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

High school aged students can participate in a not yet named production as part of the Showcase Players. They meet on Saturdays from 3 to 6 p.m. Their performance will be held in January.

Students, ages 7 and up, who like to sing can try out for Show Choir which meets on Thursday from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Show Choir combines music from all genres and decades with choreography.

Students gain stage presence, ear training and have fun performing with a singing team.

Little lovers of music (ages 4 to 10), can participate in a “free” workshop called Music Makers. In this workshop, children can strum a guitar or sound a trumpet. The workPhoto courtesy of Paul Storm shop is offered FAOPA and Music Showcase offer children and adults the opportunity to on the second express their creativity. Students who perform in the Musical Theatre program make musicals such as Beauty and the Beast or the Lion King Saturday of come alive on stage. each month. from 9 to 10 a.m. A performance is Registration is required. planned for December.

Music Showcase also offers classes If your children are into Musical and workshops on digital photography Theatre, then Music Showcase has a and interior design. group for them. Students ages 5 to 12 For more information on availability can audition for a part in the FAOPA and cost to attend one or more of the Players’ production of Annie Jr. which will above fun groups and workshops, please be performed in December. FAOPA call 490-ARTS (2787) or visit Players meet on Monday from 5 to 7 www.faopa.org. p.m.

Music Showcase is located at 402 Middle school students can audition Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

By Sharon Still

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Page 21

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Dream Vacations Brings Cruising Experience To You With Free Tasting & Travel Night

By Stacy Huisman

tions and save them money.”

Do you want to know more about cruising before you take the leap of commitment? The Breauxs and Dream Vacations are a hosting a ribbon cutting event and Vacation Night so locals can learn about cruising and all-inclusive resorts on Tuesday, October 10 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at The Regent in the Community Room, located at 6347 Watson Rd. in Riverview.

The event is free and open to the public. Guests will experience what cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts have to offer by obtaining their Jenifer and Barry Breaux and family pose on one of mock passport, food and travtheir many travels. eling around the world.

Have you ever wanted to take a “Guests will taste different foods cruise or travel to an all-inclusive from an around the world buffet, have resort but had trouble knowing where an opportunity to grab a mocktail – to begin? Finding the right cruise or fancy drinks with no alcohol - on their vacation package would be easier if you had a travel expert in your neighborhood.

Meet Jenifer and Barry Breaux, our neighborhood vacation experts.

Together they own the travel franchise All Around the World by Dream Vacations in Lithia.

The Breaux’s have the inside scoop on the many options for traveling both in Florida and around the world.

They have way to visit the taken their professpa,” touts Jenifer. sional planning abilThey are even ities and worldwide offering a Kids Club travel experience like on cruise ships, gained from 29 so kids are welyears in the United come. A represenStates Army (65 years combined) and tative from Norwegian Cruise Lines opened a travel company. Both Barry will be there to answer questions and and Jenifer served as active duty offering raffle items, giveaways and Army Officers before retiring in special promotions for those who Florida to begin their next passion – attend. helping others travel the world.

Bring the kids, taste food from “We’ve traveled or visited more around world, get a massage and than 35 countries combined, we’ve learn about the many options of cruissort of lost count,” jokes Jenifer. “We ing and resort vacations from local love to travel and understand the resident travel experts. business better than most. We work For info, call 667-7000 or visit hard for our clients to give them www.jbreaux.dreamvacations.com. options that will meet their expecta-

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Page 22

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 10

Fall Craft Shows & Festivals Offer Great Shop Local Opportunities For Holiday Giving

Compiled By Michelle Colesanti

Shoppers will have fun visiting all of the fall craft fairs below where you will find unique gifts for the upcoming holiday season.

Annual Gifts & Crafts Fair At The Bridges Retirement Community

With the holidays approaching, shopping for unique gifts could not be easier when you visit the sixth annual Gifts & Crafts Fair, held on Saturday, October 14, from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. at The Bridges Retirement Community.

This one-stop holiday shopping event features over 30 vendors and is free and open to the public.

Whether it is handcrafted decorations or personalized gifts, such as jewelry and handbags, pottery, candles, soaps, home décor and more, you will find just what you are looking for.

“Customers of all ages are invited to stop by this free event to get a head start on their shopping,” says Janet Noah, Community Relations Liaison and event coordinator. “With the wide variety of gifts and crafts, shoppers can look forward to giving unique and wonderful gifts with a personal touch!”

The Bridges is located at 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview.

Holy Innocent’s Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show

Holy Innocent’s Episcopal Church is hosting its 10th annual Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show on Saturday, November 4th from 9: a.m. to 3 p.m.

Over 70 vendors will be show casing and selling unique arts & crafts, novelties, and baked goods for the fall and winter seasons in Florida. There will also be several fun activities for the kids. 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.

Fall Craft Festival At St. Andrew’s Church

St Andrew’s Church Fall Craft Festival, sponsored by the United Methodist Women, will be held on Saturday, October 28 from 9 a.m.3 p.m. at the corner of Brian Rd. and Bloomingdale Ave. in

Brandon.

Enjoy shopping for the holidays at the vendor booths, and don't miss the homemade bake goods for sale.

Granny's attic will offer you a lot of barely used treasures and you don't want to miss the Café for lunch. All vendors should call Mary Jane at 689-2572.

Holiday Craft Bazaar Seeks Crafters And Artists

Rd. in Lithia.

The fee for a 10 x 10-ft. space is $25, and fees will support missions in the community.

The bazaar will be outdoors, and vendors will need to provide their own tent, table and chairs. There is no admission fee for shoppers.

The deadline for reserving a booth is Sunday, October 15. For more information and a vendor application, visit www.grace-

Crafters and artists are being sought by Grace United Methodist Church at FishHawk for a Holiday Craft Bazaar on Saturday, November 11. The event, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., is being sponsored by the Women of Grace. The church is located at 5708 Lithia Pinecrest craftbazaar.com, or contact event organizer Susan Ferraro by emailing her at bosefer11@yahoo.com or 3611724.

Grace has worship services at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. every Sunday.

Visit www.mygraceumc.com or call 661-8858 for more information.

October 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 23

Page 24

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 10

See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 October 2017

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

www.ospreyobserver.com

Dave & Busters Joins Bass Pro Shops With New Location And Plans To Hire Over 230 Staff Members Ahead Of October Opening The popular chain Dave & Busters will be opening its first Tampa location in late October.

The location, which will be in the Estuary in Brandon near Topgolf and adjacent to Bass Pro Shops, will be the 103rd Dave & Busters to open nationwide.

The building itself will be over 40,000 sq. ft., and will host dining areas, games and a full sports bar. In a press release, a representative said that D&B Sports Bar will be an ideal place to watch all of the Tampa sports teams.

The new Dave & Busters is the first location in the entire Tampa area, said General Manager Tim Johnson.

With the nearest location in Orlando, Tampa residents will finally have access to one of the most unique

By Eric Heubusch

for the entertainment hub, the menu features chef-crafted food, including the Hawg-A-Saurus Loaded Cheese Fries and BBBacon Burger, which features three types of bacon.

Behind the bar, Dave & Busters offers innovative cocktails like the Glow Kones and

experiences in the restaurant business.

“It’s everything under one roof,” Johnson said. “Great food, TVs, sports lounge with 200-inch projection screens, games — it’s fun.”

While over 100 arcade-style games are a big attraction

Luxe Patron LITs. Dave & Busters provides many allergy-free options for those with specific allergies such as egg, fish, milk peanut, shellfish and soy.

Prior to ordering, just alert your server.

In preparation for the grand opening of Dave & Busters, the company is looking to hire over 230 positions for the Tampa location. Positions are available in both front and back-of-house capacities, including servers, bartenders, hosts, line cooks, game techs and more.

“We are taking applications online,” Johnson said.

Dave & Busters will be located at 10209 Estuary Lakes Dr. in Tampa.

Interested candidates should apply online at daveandbusters/careers or call 888-300-1515 for more information.

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Page 26

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Satisfaction Guaranteed And New Ownership For Locally-Owned Royal Maid Service

By Michelle Caceres

Royal Maid said. “Our cusService owner tomers are very Michael Honsa happy right now.” is not a rookie Customer entrepreneur.

Kim Herremans is Honsa is an one of those international happy customers. businessman, She has been a owning compacustomer of Royal nies throughout Maid Service for South Africa and more than seven Europe. years and appreWhether the ciates the fact that business is a the cleaning crew The staff of Royal Maid Service in Riverview car dealership is punctual. offer professional cleaning services to residential or cleaning “They work and commercial customers. service, he said as a team and the key ingredient to success is the do a great job cleaning my home,” she same. said.

“You can make any business a sucBecause the same maids clean her cess if you have an honest and hardhome at every visit, she knows she can working staff,” said Honsa. expect the same great clean every time.

With a top-notch staff being such a “If there’s anything special that needs to key ingredient to success, it was one of be done I can talk to them and they’re his first priorities after purchasing the so accommodating,” she said. business.

With its honest and hard-working He hired Denver native Stacie staff, Royal Maid Service, located at Serrano to manage the business. With 10038 Water Works Ln in Riverview, is more than 30 years’ experience in the poised to dust, mop and clean its way industry, she immediately went to work into area homes. hiring a new staff and putting processes “It’s not the Royal Maid Service you in place that would benefit customers. used to know,” said Honsa. Professional Cleaning estimates can be given inuniformed staff, marked company cars person or over the phone. She switched and a satisfaction guarantee is part of the cleaning products to a more environthe customer experience that is mentally-friendly line. Customers receive designed to be personal, professional confirmation calls the day before her staff and courteous. is scheduled to clean their homes.

For a house cleaning estimate, call “I make it a point to communicate Serrano at 999-4929 or for information, with customers as much as possible,” she visit www.royalmaidservices.com.

Volume 16, Issue 10

October 2017

Page 27

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

GET THE DIRT

WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT 2017 Community Water Wise Award Winners

Lynn Barber, FFL Agent

The Community Water Wise Awards are sponsored by Tampa Bay Water and recognize individuals and businesses committed to conserving our water resources and protecting the environment by using FloridaFriendly Landscaping™ (FFL) principles.

There are nine FFL principles which include: right plant right place, water efficiently, fertilize appropriately, mulch, attract wildlife, manage yard pests responsibly, recycle, reduce stormwater runoff and protect the waterfront.

Many of these principles are used as part of the landscape evaluation process for this award program.

The retention of existing trees and vegetation is evaluated, as are landscape design and plant selection.

Stormwater runoff prevention techniques and use of efficient irrigation techniques are reviewed. Winning landscapes balance attractive design with plants, landscape elements and water efficient irrigation techniques that have a positive impact on our environment.

I’m pleased to announce the winners for the 2017 Community Water Wise Award Contest. For unincorporated Hillsborough County, the winners are Barb and Bob McCarty. The City of Tampa winners are Michael Keller and Jacqueline Rogers.

There are several elements of these landscapes that were positive examples of Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM water-wise practices.

These include the planting of droughttolerant trees and plants, selfmulching areas under trees, ground-

covers versus turfgrass utilized in all or several areas of the landscapes, plants selected that are appropriate for your site conditions, grouping of plants with similar water and maintenance needs, organic and alternative mulch was applied, pervious materials were used for paths, walkways and other areas. Both thrive mainly on rainfall with no inground irrigation system, were aesthetically pleasing, beautiful and inviting.

We were excited about Barb and Bob’s use of organic and alternative mulches and rainwater harvesting.

Michael and Jacqueline’s use of native and non-native adaptive plants was thoughtful and in good taste.

As you can see from the photos, these landscapes were both water conserving and fascinating. With a dozen entries submitted this year, it was difficult selecting the 2017 Community Water Wise Award Winners. We hope each of you reading this article will consider entering the contest which you can do any time at http://tampabaywaterwise.org.

The deadline for entries is June 30 each year, so you can complete an application now, submit it and get a head start on the 2018 contest.

For assistance with horticultural questions, call us at 744-5519 or visit us at the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, 5339 CR 579 in Seffner. More gardening information is available at: http://hillsborough.ifas.ufl.edu and https://www.facebook.com/HCFFL/.

Remember to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat.

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PRICEY CADILLAC CTS-V BOASTS AN INVIGORATING EXPERIENCE Who infotaindoesn’t ment syswant to tem that own a should be super the envy sedan that of the shares its competipowertrain tion. The with the driver and Corvette passenZ06? gers are That’s the coddled 2017 by supple Cadillac leather CTS-V, a bucket ride with tremenseats with suede CTS-V dous power just a inserts. In fact, there Tires: P265/35ZR19 front; throttle away. is ample head and P295/30ZR19 rear The 6.2-liter leg room for five Wheelbase: 114.6 inches supercharged V-8 adults to relax and Length: 197.6 inches engine doles out sit in comfort. To Weight: 4,141 pounds 640 horsepower at accommodate drivFuel capacity: 19 gallons 6400 rpm and 630 ers of all heights, City: 14 mpg pounds-feet of Cadillac has Highway: 21 mpg torque at 3600 rpm. equipped the CTS-V Web site: www.cadillac.com Mated to an 8-speed with a power tilt/teleauto gearbox with scopic three-spoke magnesium paddle shifters, the rearsteering wheel. Standard goodies wheel-drive car can take off from 0 to include head-up display, sport alloy 60 mph in 3.7 seconds with top speed pedals, 20-way power and at 200 mph. Magnetic Ride Control heated/cooled front seats, dual auto adjusts the four-wheel independent a/c and a sueded headliner. There are suspension as per road conditions, plenty of options such as a Carbon resulting in a smooth but firm ride. It Black Package ($5,950), Recaro seats also keeps body roll to a minimum. ($2,300), Luxury Package ($2,075) and Stopping power is exceptional, thanks more. Lest we forget, gas guzzler tax is to 15.3-inch vented front and 14.3-inch $1,000. rear disc Brembo brakes. Drive modes Dual front and side airbags, side are tour, sport, track and snow/ice. curtain airbag, front knee airbags, fourEnsconced on the unitized welded wheel antilock brakes, blind spot monisteel body is a mammoth mesh grille tor, lane departure warning/alert, that meets up a carbon fiber hood, rear/curb view camera, remote start, quad stainless steel tips and prominent active front head restraints, forward chrome strip on the trunk door. Climb warning and front/rear park assist and into the Caddy and your first impresobstacle detection, stability and traction sion is of a tailored, upscale and luxuri- control, extreme limited slip differential, ous cabin. Indeed, the fit and finish, tire pressure monitoring system and gloss levels and materials are first-rate. daytime running lights are standard.

The sumptuous interior is equipped With incredible power at its comwith the hands-on CUE (Cadillac User mand, the attractive and athletic CTS-V Experience). An 8-inch touchscreen in responds with nimbleness and quickthe center stack includes capactive ness to any driving condition. This is controls, haptic feedback, gestures and one invigorating experience that will voice recognition (yes, Apple CarPlay leave you wanting for more. The only and Android Auto are available). Throw catch? the 12.3-inch reconfigurable instrument You will need $85,995 and plenty cluster into the mix and you have an of change for this fine prize.

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Page 28

se, u o H n e p HCC O Clinic & g Gardenin re…

Mo ichelle Colesanti, d by M m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e ll e mich

Hillsborough Community College To Host Fall Open House Events

Hillsborough Community College (HCC) will host open house events at each of its five campuses during the month of October. Prospective students will have the opportunity to learn about the college’s academic options and certifications, admissions, financial aid, veteran services and more. Join us to experience campus tours and personal attention with our expert faculty and staff. HCC offers small classes, flexible schedules and online options. We’re half the cost of state universities and our courses are guaranteed to transfer to a Florida public college and/or university. Prospective

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On Wednesday, October 4 from 6:30-7:30 p.m., there will be a Master Gardener Clinic on Bromeliads by Master Gardener Verna Dickey at the Bloomingdale Library, located at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. It will include handson presentation of several different types of bromeliads and where they grow. This event is sponsored by the Hillsborough County Master Gardner Program of the Hillsborough County Extension, University of Florida, IFAS Extension.

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attendees are encouraged to RSVP at hccfl.edu/openhouse.

Open Houses will take place: Tuesday, October 17 – SouthShore Campus - 551 24th St. NE in Ruskin from 5:30-7:30 p.m.; Thursday, October 19 – Brandon Campus - 10414 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa from 5:30-7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, October 25 – Dale Mabry Campus - 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd. in Tampa, from 5-7 p.m.

Thursday, October 26 – Ybor City Campus - 2112 N. 15th St. in Tampa from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.; and Monday, October 30 – Plant City Campus 1206 North Park Rd. in Plant City from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

For more information, visit hccfl.edu.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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October 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

lief e R a m r I e Hurrican ation Inform

Apply For Operation Blue Roof At Two New Locations

Eligible homeowners who sustained roof damage from Hurricane Irma now have two additional locations where they can apply for Operation Blue , ti san lle Cole e h ic Roof and complete the Right M d by m Compile preyobserver.co of Entry (ROE) form that @os michelle allows government employees and contractors onto their property to assess damage and install a temporary covering.

Locally, a collection center has opened at Seffner-Mango Branch Relief Fund Established For Library, located at 410 N. Kingsway Hillsborough County Residents Rd. in Seffner.

Impacted By Hurricane Irma The center is open from 8 a.m.-6 Even before Hurricane Irma hit p.m., seven days a week until further Hillsborough County, good notice.

Samaritans all around the country Operation Blue Roof, which began asking how they could help assists eligible homeowners with temresidents. Hillsborough County has porary roof repairs, is a program the established the Hillsborough County Federal Emergency Management Irma Relief Fund that will directly fund Agency (FEMA) tasks the U.S. Army recovery efforts for residents impactCorps of Engineers (USACE), ed by the storm.

Jacksonville District, to implement.

All financial This program is available at donations to the no cost to eligible primary relief fund will be homeowners. used to support Only primary residences non-profit organiwith standard shingled roofs are zations providing eligible to receive a temporary aid and recovery blue roof. Metal roofs and services to mobile homes may be repaired Hillsborough as practical on a case-by-case County residents, basis. Roofs with greater than such as Salvation 50 percent structural damage Army and are not eligible for this program.

American Red Cross. Funds collected For rental property, legal permiswill go directly to residents through sion for a blue roof to be installed the non-profit organizations and will must be obtained from the property not be used for any governmental owner. Renters also must get legal services or administrative costs. permission from their landlord to conDonations can be made to the tinue occupying the residence until Hillsborough County Irma Relief Fund more permanent repairs are made. by: Information about Operation Blue Online: Roof is available on the Jacksonville Visit https://goo.gl/hUAZWK to make District website an online donation. at www.saj.usace.army.mil/BlueRoof, Check: Payable to “Hillsborough and in English and Spanish at 1-888Irma Relief” and mail to Lutheran ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258).

Services Florida at 3627 W. Waters Avenue., Tampa, FL 33614.

Jobs Available To Assist With Funding will be authorized by a Hurricane Relief committee consisting of representaManpower is looking for people tives from the Hillsborough County who can assist with the Hurricane Department of Aging Services, Florida relief.

These positions are beginning Department of Children and Families, immediately for the Hillsborough counand United Way Suncoast. ty area.

The creation of a general recovThe job titles are: Line Greeter for ery/relief account to support human $10 an hour and Eligibility services organizations providing relief Worker/Screener for $15 an hour. If and recovery services to disaster surinterested, please contact t 249-0349 vivors is a part of Hillsborough Ext.70129 or County’s Comprehensive Emergency lee.cowie@manpower.com.

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Page 29

Ruskin-Based Roundabout Watercrafts Sells Unique Personal Fishing Boats

By Nick Nahas

Todd years-old, tells Foucher me that it’s like launched his fishing out of a company on La-Z-Boy. It’s September 1, that comfort2015, perfectly able,” Foucher merging his said. background in The onethe boat-buildman boat can ing industry easily become and his knowla two-man edge of fishing boat with the in Tampa Bay. addition of Foucher, a fishanother seat ing guide in the that attaches Tampa Bay quickly. The area for six Roundabout years, also had can hold up to a fishing show 674 lbs. and on the has 22 sq. ft.

Sportsman of deck space.

Channel.

The two seats While doing sit about 16 research, he inches apart came across a from one round boat another. called a coraLocated at cle. According 1510 River Dr. to Foucher, the SW in Ruskin, coracle has Roundabout been around Watercrafts, since the preLLC headquarRoman era and ters offers free is still used demos to try today in the out some of Middle East the boats. “We and Far East. want to make Foucher sure that our used his knowlcustomers are edge to get to The Roundabout can hold up to two people, with absolutely 100 work on a new two seats about 16 inches apart from one another percent comand easy to transport with a trailer and a hitch. innovative pletely comfortdesign. He made improvements to able with their purchase,” he said. the original coracle by adding more Foucher's main focus is on cusdeck space, more storage, a flat-bot- tomer service. “We know we have a tomed hull, as well as a motor. A great product,” he said. "We know seat with swiveling ability gives a that our product is going to withstand 360-degree turning radius and a and hold up for a long time but, to great vantage point to spot fish. me, customer service is number one Foucher named his new design the in importance. We take care of our Roundabout. His company, clients and we make sure that we Roundabout Watercrafts, is one of are there for them if they need anytwo companies in the entire U.S. that thing.” sell round boats.

The already affordable According to Foucher, most of Roundabout is even more reasonthe good feedback he gets from able when the buyer picks the boat clients is that the Roundabout is very up and doesn't need to have it stable and the upright natural seating shipped. They will receive an addiposition makes it very comfortable to tional $200 off the retail price. sit in. Many of his clients are older Visit www.roundaboutwaterand can’t jam themselves into a crafts.com for more information or to small kayak. “My father, who is 69purchase a Roundabout.

Page 30

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

pport u S s ’ n o s n Parki ramic Sale, e Group, C Presentation g Gardenin More… &

The support group is free of charge and open to those who have been diagnosed with the disease, family members, ti, n a s le caregivers and o lle C y Miche r.com b d e anyone with an il p ve Com reyobser p s o interest in learning @ e michell more about Parkinson’s.

Hawthorne Health & Rehabilitation Center, Annual Ceramic Sale located at 851 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon, A Ceramic Sale will be held on is a skilled nursing facility Saturday, October 14 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. with inpatient and outpaat the Strawberry Ridge Mobile Home tient rehabilitation proPark, located at 3419 S.R. 60 in Valrico. grams including speech, physical and occupational Rare Fruit Trees Is Topic At therapies. Hawthorne also Riverview Garden Club’s October hosts a dementia support Meeting group in the assisted living The Riverview Garden Club will hold facility, as well as past meetings for those its business meeting on Wednesday, dealing with strokes, diabetes, low vision October 11 at 10 a.m. The guest speaker and other diseases. will be Tom Schaffer on Rare Fruit For more information or to register, Trees. The club's address is Riverview call 661-8998 Monday-Friday from 9 Civic Center, 11020 Park Dr. in a.m.-5 p.m.

Riverview. Call 654-6987 for more information.

Hawthorne Hosts Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Hawthorne Health & Rehabilitation Center hosts a monthly support group for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and caregivers on the third Thursday of every month.

On October 19 at 2 p.m., the speaker will be Pam Cooper, ARNP who will talk about Parkinson’s Psychosis; the effect of Parkinson’s on emotions and thought processes.

Living With Alzheimer’s Educational Series At The Bridges

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or related dementia leads to many questions for the person with the diagnosis and their family. This three-part series, which will take place on Tuesday, October 31 and November 7 and Friday, November 17 from 10 a.m.-12 Noon, is geared for people with early stage Alzheimer’s or some form of dementia and their care partner.

Kim Schaub, Program Specialist with the Alzheimer's Association, will lead a dis-

cussion on what you need to know, what you need to plan and what you can do to navigate this chapter of your life.

During this program topics covered with include: Understanding Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss; Partnering with your medical team; Effective communication and telling others about the diagnosis; Coping with changes and making decisions; Daily strategies and safety issues; Opportunities for supporting research; and Resources for people with early-stage dementia.

The Living with Alzheimer’s Educational Series will be held at The Bridges Retirement Community, located at the Clubhouse at The Bridges, 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview.

To register, please call 413-8900.

Seating is limited.

Coin & Currency Show

Brandon Coin Club Inc., A 501 (C) 7 non-profit organization, is pleased to announce its next Coin & Currency Show on Saturday, October 7 from 9 a.m.-3

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p.m. at the Brandon Elks Lodge #2383, located at 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. in Brandon.

30 dealers/45 tables; free admission/parking/door prizes and excellent food available on site. Free coin grab bags for all children under 12 and free appraisals.

ICG Grading Service in attendance and offering free verbal opinions and $10 slabbing.

For more information, contact Jack Laci at 352-777-6073 or brandoncoinclub@yahoo.com.

Supervisor Of Elections To Address Democratic Women

Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer is the guest speaker for the Thursday, October 12 meeting of the Democratic Women’s Club of Southeast Hillsborough County.

Latimer will address a number of voting issues, including combating cyberattacks on voting systems.

The group meets from 6-8 p.m. in the large Community Room 8 at the rear of the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, and invites all like-minded Democrats to attend. Call 654-7464 for more information.

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October 2017

Page 31

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

en’s n o W n a i Christ Fun l l a F n o i Connect th Shalom Lunch, Be More…

Events & helle Colesanti, d by Mic m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ michelle

Enjoy Some Fall Fun At The Brandon Christian Women’s Connection October Luncheon

Brandon Christian Women’s Connection‘s October Luncheon “Fall Fun” is Monday October 9 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Bell Shoals Baptist Church’s Special Events Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon.

The speaker will be Paula Abbott and music with Brenda Copher. This is a non-denominational luncheon and all ladies are invited.

The cost is $15 for luncheon and entertainment. First time guests pay $10. Reservations are requested by calling Lillie at 740-0098.

Gospel Jam 2017 Seeks Entertainers

If you would like to solo or have a group that would be interested in bringing worship through song, drama, etc. at the Gospel Jam 2017 Entertainment Tent at the Hillsborough County State Fair, please pre-register before October 15 by mail to Hillsborough County Fair, P.O. Box 100, Sydney, FL 33587 or via email to hillsboroughcountyfair@verizon.net.

For an application, visit http://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/wpcontent/uploads/2015/06/2017Gospel-Jam.pdf .

The entertainment will take place on Sunday, October 22 and 29 starting at 2 p.m. Once registered, you will be notified of your performance time.

All ages are welcome.

Congregation Beth Shalom Services And Events

You are welcome to attend the upcoming events at Congregation Beth Shalom.

Sukkah Under the Stars Wednesday, October 4 from 6:157:45 p.m. Enjoy S’mores, make a

sukkah from mystery materials, and play Sukkot games. Star Gaze using a telescope and learn more about the stars.

Everyone young and old is welcome to celebrate this special holiday with our com-

munity.

Sangria and Soda in the Sukkah Saturday, October 7 at 7 p.m. Join in for a drum circle by Giving Tree Music. Bring a snack to share and enjoy beating a drum.

One Family – Different Customs: An exploration of Sephardic Jewry Rabbi Betsy Torop will enlighten us about Sephardic customs, goods, music, life cycle and holiday observances celebrated in Spain and Middle Eastern countries. This series will run on three consecutive Tuesday evenings in October, starting on October 10 at 7 p.m., continuing on October 17 and 24.

Simchot Torah Wednesday, October 11 at 7 p.m. Celebrate with songs of joy, listen to the final and first words of the Torah and dance with the scrolls.

Shabbat services are held on Friday evenings at 7:45 p.m. Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. A special ‘Shabbat at the Ranch’ will be held on October 6, bring a snack to share and a chair. It will start with snack and sunset viewing at 6 p.m. and follow with a casual Shabbot service at 7 pm. All welcome. Call the office for ranch address.

Congregation Beth Shalom is located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon.

Call 681-6547 for information.

United Methodist Women 47th Annual Pecan Sale

Pecans are available to order from Sunday, October 1 through Wednesday, November 1. A five pound box of mammoth halves or pieces costs $45. A one pound bag of mammoth halves is $10. Specialty items are also available as follows:

chocolate amaretto pecans for $18; praline pecans for $16, and an assortment including pralines, chocolate amaretto and roasted salted peanuts for $20.

To order call Mary Baker at 643-4493, email bjbrooke5@gmail.com or visit www.pecansale.com to order and pay by credit card. Checks payable to UMW can be mailed to P.O. Box 546, Lithia, FL 33547. Only pre-paid pecans are reserved.

Others will be sold on a first come-first served basis.

Pick-up is at New Hope United Methodist Church, 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. Pickup times are Saturday, November 11 and Monday, November 13 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

This annual fundraiser benefits local missions such as Family Promise, Cornerstone Ministries and the Women’s Resource Center.

For more information, contact Barbara Brooks at 689-7016 or bjbrooks@gmail.com

Annual Fall Festival At New Hope UMC On Sunday, October 29 from 5-7

Order your pecans through Wednesday, November 1 to benefit the United Methodist Women.

p.m., New Hope United Methodist Church will hold its annual Fall Festival. This is a great event for all ages with trunks filled with candy plus free hot dogs, inflatables and free family fun.

Follow along the maze of decorated trunks for a safe, fun-filled alternative to Trick-or-Treating.

Kids should wear their non-scary costume and invite their friends.

The Church is located at 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. For more information, contact Shelly Wilson at Shelly@findnewhope.com or visit www.findnewope.com.

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Page 32

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

P R E SS

Authorized:

Reporter

Tamas

Mondovics tamas@ ver.com ospreyobser

Volume 16, Issue 10

Sports Connection 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com

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

By Tamas Mondovics

Newsome Wolves Treat Fans To A 48-27 Win Against Riverview Sharks

Newsome High School football fans enjoyed a great night of competition as the Wolves defeated Riverview 48-27.

William Mosel, Riverview returned to the second half with renewed zeal scoring two more touchdowns.

Newsome answered back with a field goal by senior kicker Spencer Shrader and another rushing TD to seal the game for the night in its favor.

Newsome’s victory was the result of a great team effort including a few senior players like running backs Patrick Jolly, Neil Bryant, linebacker Kevin Mieczkowski, Wolves running back Patrick Jolly, (25) carries the football before safety Kanaan Jones reaching the end-zone to score against Riverview.

Wolves senior kicker Spencer Shrader, (84) gets the extra point against the Sharks during a recent district game.

With Hurricane Irma forcing the delay of two games, area varsity football teams and fans were eager to get back to the season, preferably on a winning note.

Newsome High School fans were not disappointed, as their team returned to the field ready to take on district rival Riverview, ending in a 4827 victory.

The win secured the Wolves 3-0 overall and 1-0 district record in preparation for a make up game against

Durant the following Wednesday.

Prior to taking on the Sharks, Newsome Head Coach Kenneth Hiscock spoke highly of his players emphasizing their preparation and hard work in hopes of a solid season.

“We had a great week of practice and the kids are focused on getting the job done,’ Hiscock said, just moments before the opening whistle.

Judging by the numbers and the entire game, Hiscock’s words were right on target.

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Newsome safety, Kanaan Jones, (1) runs the football down the field against Riverview.

Scoring began early as the Wolves put the first seven points on the board, which was quickly balanced out by the Sharks.

Scoring, however, continued and by the start of the second quarter the Wolves led the Sharks 21-7. The first half then ended with a 38-14 Newsome lead.

Led by program Head Coach

and quarterback Dakota Allen.

The Wolves’ Class 8A District 6 line up includes Riverview (Sarasota), Palm Harbor U, Manatee, Alonso and Steinbrenner.

For information about high school football, visit www.maxpreps.com.

For more information please visit Newsome on Facebook.

October 2017

Page 33

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sports

Connection Two Local Tennis Clubs Compete For Championships

By Nick Nahas

Photo courtesy of Jackie Caouette

The FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club won the three-day USTA Florida Sectional Championship on August 11-13. They went 7-0 in the regular season. The ladies dominated the competition, only losing nine individual matches out of 70 total matches throughout the entire regular and championship season.

Two local UTSA tennis clubs will compete for national and state championships in their respective conferences.

A women’s tennis team representing the Fishhawk Ranch Tennis Club won the three-day USTA Florida Sectional Championship in Lake Nona, Orlando, on August 11-13. The 18 and over level 3.0 USTA team will compete in Nationals from October 20-22 in Surprise, Arizona.

The squad, lead by team captain, Jackie Caouette, had an outstanding regular season, going undefeated and winning all seven of their matches in the process. They then won their two local playoff games to qualify for Sectionals, where they won all five of their matches

to qualify for Nationals. “It’s definitely a big deal to make Nationals,” said Caouette.

“My mother made nationals twice, so I’m excited to follow in her footsteps.”

The ladies not only won, but they dominated the competition, only losing nine individual matches out of 70 total matches throughout the entire regular and championship seasons. Each team match consisted of two lines of singles and three lines of doubles. They are the first team from the Fishhawk Tennis Center to ever qualify for USTA Nationals, and they are the only 3.0 team from Florida to qualify for Nationals. They have 15 women on their team, including Caouette, Ashley Toohey, Nikki Kipp,

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over, managed to go undefeated in the regular season, finishing 60.

The squad, lead by team captain, Luis Ferrey, qualified for Sectionals after winning the league by defeating the Avila Country Club two sets to one in the Championship.

Ferrey, who has been playing tennis for over 40 years, came to Photo courtesy of Luis Ferrey the River Hills The River Hills Country Club will compete in Sectionals from Country Club December 8th-10th in Lake Nona, Orlando. from another Shannon Deck, Kelly Oldham, Pam club after several players left, and he Smith, Monica Eiermann, Agnes Lirag, assembled his current team, which has Kim Ortmeier, Andrea Cammarata, 16 players. The members, in addition to Tabetha Vandeboe, Alison Dominic, Ferrey, are Jay Bortner, Edgar Alvarez, Wendy Bartlett, Christine Merrill and Brad Duncan, Alvin Macasinag, Ernie Christina Sharp. “We are going to bring Pabon, Ben DeBrocke, Jeffrey Wong, the National Title home to Florida,” said Bruce Reilly, Gavin Smith, James Caoutte.

Schneider, John Figlewski, Curt Kenyon, In addition to the Fishhawk Ranch Craig Swartz, Barry Shollenberger and Tennis Club women making it to Ken Chin.

Nationals, the men from the River Hills Ferrey hopes that his team can bring Country Club will compete in Sectionals home the state title. This league does not from December 8-10 in Lake Nona, have a Nationals event. “We are expectOrlando. The 7.5 men’s combo team con- ed to go all the way because we are an sisting of players age 25-65, competing in undefeated team, but it’s not going to be the USTA adult league of players 18 and easy,” said Ferrey.

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Page 34

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Spring Opening Planned For New Wawa In Old Walgreens Location On Boyette Rd.

By Tamas Mondovics

Wawa, ESOP, Wawa’s Inc., recently employee broke ground stock owneron its newest ship plan,” Riverview store Labik said. last month by Wawa means of levelAssociates ing an existing own more than building in its 40 percent of way, which for Wawa through motorists, resithe ESOP. dents and The new Heavy equipment is used to demolish the former neighbors was Walgreens Wawa store Pharmacy in Riverview to make room for a quite a site to new Wawa scheduled to open in the second quarter will offer cusof 2018. behold. tomers numerThe approximately 15,000 sq. ft., ous Wawa brands, such as the awardstructure demolished was the former winning Wawa coffee (195 million cups Walgreens Pharmacy, 13323 Boyette sold annually); the Sizzli, Wawa’s hot Rd., in Riverview, which occupied the breakfast sandwich; Wawa’s new line of approximately one-acre lot located at the specialty beverages (hot, cold, iced and SW corner of Boyette Rd., Bell Shoals frozen); Wawa Bakery; Wawa’s built-toRd., and FishHawk Blvd. intersections. order hoagies (80 million sold annually); All of this, of course, was good news and Wawa’s beverage line of dairy prodfor Wawa, a privately held company, ucts, juices and teas. which recently celebrated the opening of Wawa, Inc. began in 1803 as an its 100th store location in Florida. The iron foundry in New Jersey. Now a chain company plans for future expansion of more than 750 convenience retail throughout the Sunshine State, predictstores (over 500 offering gasoline), ing the opening of 500 new stores within Wawa stores are located in the next 10 years.

Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, According to Wawa spokesperson Maryland, Virginia and Central Florida Colleen Labik, the new Riverview store and employ about 30,000 associates. is scheduled to open in the second quarWawa Headquarters is located at ter of 2018 and, as it is the case in each Red Roof, 260 W. Baltimore Pike in new store, it will bring 40 new jobs to the Wawa, Pennsylvania. community.

Most stores are open 24 hours a “Associates in these full-time and day, 365 days a year. part-time positions will not only receive For more information, please visit competitive salaries and health benefits, www.wawa.com. but once eligible, will participate in

Volume 16, Issue 10

October 2017

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 35

Page 36

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 10

The Florida Orchestra Opens 50th Season With Packed October

By Kelly Smith

What started returns to as the merger of Coachman two regional Park in orchestras five Clearwater. decades ago has That means grown into the three nights in premier – and a row of free largest – orchesmusic throughtra in the state. out Tampa Bay, The Florida including film Orchestra opens scores, its historic 50th Broadway hits anniversary seaThe Florida Orchestra’s new season begins with and symphonic son in October as Carmina Burana. The Master Chorale of Tampa favorites. First Bay will join the orchestra for this epic work on the only performup is Vinoy Friday to Sunday, October 6-8. ing arts organizaPark in St. tion that serves the Petersburg on Oct. 21, entire Tampa Bay area, with a fireworks finale. with concerts in Tampa, Encore performances St. Petersburg and are Oct. 22 in River Clearwater. Just look at Tower Park in Tampa what’s packed into October: and Oct. 23 in Coachman Park.

Carmina Burana (Friday to Sunday, Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture October 6-8): An epic work you must (Friday to Sunday, October 27-29): experience LIVE. The orchestra fills the Nothing like a few blasts of the “cannons” stage with the 150-voice Master Chorale of to celebrate TFO’s 50th season. Also: Tampa Bay for a huge wall of sound, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 2 and under the baton of Music Director Michael Lutoslawski’s Concerto for Orchestra.

Francis, to open the Tampa Bay Times With a new Sunday matinee at the Masterworks series. Ask about free tickets Mahaffey Theater. Michael Francis confor kids and teens. ducts.

Swing is the Thing (Friday to The Florida Orchestra regularly perSunday, October 13-15): Jump ‘n’ jive forms at the Straz Center in Tampa, from the 1940s right into the jukebox tunes Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth of the ‘50s and ‘60s, with hits like Boogie Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Masterworks Woogie Bugle Boy and Rock Around the and Pops tickets are $15, $30 and $45.

Clock. Features dancers and clarinet senKids and teens get in free to all sation Dave Bennett. Jeff Tyzik conducts, Masterworks concerts with Classical Kids to kick off the Raymond James Pops tickets, available in advance at the Ticket series.

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October 2017

Page 37

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Doral Dental Expands Practice With New Dentist & Expanded Location

By Michelle Caceres

Doral Dental has Doral Dental is a relocated to a new, largmodern dental practice er space at 16627 that uses the most curFishHawk Blvd., Suite rent technologies and 102, behind Taco Bell innovations. Dr. Kerry and adjacent to Smith, DDO, said his CrossFit for Glory. It practice’s commitment to has also added a docproviding the highest tor to its growing pracstandard of personalized tice, Dr. Felipe Salles, care with a gentle, effiDDS, who in addition to cient and professional general dentistry spemanner. “Patients find cializes in implant surour atmosphere calming, geries and aesthetic the staff friendly and our treatments. dental services excepDoral Dental at FishHawk has “I’m glad to have tional,” he said. “Our goal moved its practice to 16627 joined a practice with with every patient is to FishHawk Blvd., Suite 102 and Dr. such a good reputation Felipe Salles has joined the team. restore them to optimal for quality and affordoral health.” able dentistry and especially for being Patients also find the practice very able to help expand its services,” he said. trustworthy. Patient Rob Gardener visited Salles is board-certified and a mem- the practice for a second opinion and ber of the ADA (American Dental was very happy he did. “My former denAssociation, FDA (Florida Dental tist, a large statewide practice, was trying Association), AAID (American Academy to sell me an expensive crown,” he said. of Implant Dentistry), AO (Academy of Dr. Smith was able to treat and fill the Osseointegration), AACD (American cavity without requiring an unnecessary Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and also crown. “I received excellent service all speaks four languages. around.”

He also specializes in Botox injecDoral Dental is open Monday – tions for cosmetic and therapeutic treatThursday 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Friday ments.

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Page 38

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Photos and story by Tamas Mondovics

District Works To Catch Up After The Storm, Offering Free Lunch Through Oct. 20 District Provides Free School Lunch To All Students Until October 20

Hillsborough County Public Schools officials have announced a plan to provide free school lunch through October 20 to all students regardless of their eligibility status.

The temporary change spearheaded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture is to make it easier for school districts affected by Hurricane Irma to feed students.

The initiative is said to potentially impact more than 1,800 schools and 1.4 million children across Florida.

According to officials, the HCPS’s Student Nutrition Services team provided 34,000 meals per day to evacuees at more than 40 of its schools serving as shelters during Hurricane Irma.

More than 29,000 of our neighbors sought shelter in one of our schools.

In a recent press release, school officials emphasized that as many families lost power during the storm, access to hot meals for a period of time was limited.

Shortages of certain food products across the state also added to

the already challenging situation.

“The free school lunches, in addition to the free breakfast which is already in place for all children, will ensure students have healthy, nutritious meals during this time of need,” wrote Tanya Arja in a release.

Students will only need to enter their student ID number after getting their meal in the lunch line.

HCPS Holds Bell Schedule Meetings

Hurricane Irma forced a number of meetings to be rescheduled. The School Board meeting originally scheduled for Tuesday, September 12 was rescheduled to Tuesday, September 19.

Due to this change, the district has also rescheduled its town hall style public meetings in connection with the 2018-2019 Bell Schedule.

The two meetings were held on Thursday, September 21, at the

Riverview High School cafeteria, 11311 Boyette Rd., Riverview and on Tuesday, September 26, at Jefferson High School media center, 4401

Cypress St., in Tampa.

According to the district, thousands of students arrive late to school because the current arrival and dismissal schedule does not allow buses enough time to run their routes.

HCPS reported that last year, 12,000 students were late to school every day.

School officials also extended the new bell schedule survey to gather input from parents, students, district employees and the community through September.

Nearly 30,000 people have reportedly shared their thoughts using the survey.

The School Board is said to vote on a final bell schedule on Tuesday,

October 17, which according to HCPS will give families nearly a year to make needed adjustments to their schedules.

Superintendent Gives Back To School Safety Tips

In a recent video presentation, Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins shared a number of safety tips with parents and students.

Safe Routes to School (SRS) a national, state and county-wide effort is designed to promote walking and biking to school and making walking to school, safe, popular and fun for families.

According to school officials, the efforts are to help decrease traffic congestion around schools and increase safety, academic performance and wellness for HCPS students, HCSO Transportation Department has collaborated with Hillsborough MPO School Transportation Work Group (STWG) chaired by Board member Cindy Stuart.

For information HCPS, please visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

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October 2017

Page 39

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Veterans Memorial Park to Host Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall

By Tamas Mondovics

nership between the Department of Defense for the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War, and the Colonel George Mercer Brooke Chapter, which holds two programs annually featuring Vietnam War Veterans discussing the war and those who served.

“As the Chapter’s final tribute to the sacrifices made during that conflict, we are proud to sponsor the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Exhibit at Veterans Memorial Park in Tampa,” Bassett said.

United States Air Force, (former), Vietnam Prisoner of War, Captain Michael T. Burns, was selected as the keynote speaker for the opening ceremony.

The event is a part of Visitors reflect on the past at the three-quarter-scale travel- a number special events ing replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The Wall is scheduled to take place scheduled to be on display next month at the Veterans at the park.

Memorial Park, 3602 U.S. Highway 301 North in Tampa.

Residents were Veterans Memorial Park and Rear recently invited to learn about the Admiral LeRoy Collins Jr. Veterans County’s proposal to increase parking Museum is opening its doors to host availability at the park, the $450,000 the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall project to create parking for an addithis fall. tional 70 to 90 vehicles along with the While the most-visited National addition of a secondary access point Park Service site in Washington, for use during special events is clearD.C., millions of Americans have not ly a sound addition to the Park, a seen it or will never see or experipopular destinations that features ence the impact of "The Wall" in their several memorials and monuments, lives. while hosting special events and cerSponsored by The Colonel emonies throughout the year.

George Mercer Brooke Chapter of the The County is also involved with National Society of the Daughters of the construction of an 8,000-squarethe American Revolution (DAR), foot Veterans Resource Center on the opening ceremony for the display is grounds, which will become the new scheduled for Tuesday, October 26, home for the County’s Consumer and 2017 at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Veterans Services.

Memorial Park, 3602 U.S. Highway Additionally, the Park will also 301 North in Tampa. host the upcoming Afghanistan The display stands eight feet high Memorial dedication ceremony schedand 240 feet long. Its black, reflective uled for Saturday, October 7, 2017, at surface is inscribed with the names of 10 a.m. more than 58,000 servicemen and “The Veterans Park Committee is women who died or are missing in grateful for the success of its recent Vietnam and will take its temporary, war memorial dedication ceremonies,” but rightful place at the park from said Afghanistan Memorial Committee Tuesday, October 26 – 29. member Mark Goujon.

According to Janice A. Bassett, For more information, please consponsoring the opening ceremony is tact Hillsborough County Consumer the result of a commemorative partand Veterans Services at 246-3170.

Hyperbaric Medicine, Now In Brandon Holistic Medical Care Clinic LLC is proud to open the first integrative, state of the art, stand-alone hyperbaric center in the Brandon/Tampa Bay area.

Although Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has been around for more than 350 years, it has been gaining ground as a complementary, holistic medical treatment option for a wide variety of FDAapproved neurological benefits, orthopedic uses, wound care, and other medical conditions.

Disorders being treated include chemotherapy induced injuries, diabetic wounds, scars resulting from surgery, autism, cerebral palsy, stroke, and traumatic brain injury.

Patients who have undergone plastic or C-section surgeries also do well with faster and complete healing of scar tissues.

Professional athletes have also been known to use HBOT to accelerate muscle healing due to sport injuries and to prevent irreversible damage to the brain. Although still in the experimental phase, athletes like NY Jets legend Joe Namath have endorsed the therapy after experiencing first-hand the benefits of the procedure.

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lizes the state of the art, ETC Baramed monoplace hyperbaric chamber, one of the most advanced hyperbaric chamber system in the country today, to provide hyperbaric medicine treatment to improve patient’s quality of life.

The clinic is led by Nataliya Sia, ARNP and Sunny Sia, Psychiatric ARNP, who together founded the first NP-led integrative medical practice in Tampa Bay area back in 2014.

IIntegrative medical procedures that are provided include hyperbaric medicine, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Prolozone therapy injection for chronic pain, Ultraviolet Intravenous (UVIV) light, as well as Vitamin IVs treatment therapies, among others.

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Page 40

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Suncoast Credit Union Presents Winthrop Arts Annual Children’s Art Show

Young artists ages 5 to 18 can enter one piece of artwork in the Winthrop Arts Annual Children’s Art Show. The show is sponsored

by Suncoast Credit Union.

Children ages 5 to 18 are encouraged to enter artwork in Winthrop Arts Annual Children’s Art Show presented by Suncoast Credit Union. The show, which is judged, features and celebrates the creativity of the area’s young artists.

Children may enter original artwork in any medium. All they need to do is use their creativity.

The art show is open to all students living in the greater Brandon area. Children can enter one piece.

There is a $5 entry fee.

There are three age categories for entries and prizesages 5 to 8; ages 9 to 13; and ages 14 to 18. All entries must be submitted by Monday, October 23 at 6 p.m. at the Art Factory located at 11267 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview.

This year the show is sponsored

by Suncoast Credit Union. Significant awards are available for Best of Show (one overall) and First, Second and Third Place in each age category.

Mary McDonald, Community Relations Director for Suncoast Credit Union said, “At Suncoast Credit Union, we support the arts as they align with our mission to pro-

mote the education, health and emotional well-being of children.”

McDonald added, “The Winthrop Arts Children’s Art Show provides a creative opportunity for children to dream and express themselves outside of a normal day. We believe this supports and promotes healthy emotional growth.

Since 1990, our Foundation has assisted similar efforts with $19 million reinvested in the 21 counties we serve. We look forward to the colors, interpretations and visual mediums these students will exhibit during the show.”

An artists’ reception will be held at the Art Factory, the education program of Winthrop Arts, on Thursday, October 26 beginning at 6:30 p.m. Awards will be given at 7 p.m. The reception is an opportunity for the children to showcase their artwork.

Bryant Martinez, the Winthrop Town Artist and lead instructor at the Art Factory said, “I look forward to this show each year. I love seeing what the children produce.”

All artwork entered must be accompanied by an artist’s statement. Information and the registration form can be found at winthroparts.org. For information, call Kathy at 758-5161 or email kathy@winthroparts.org.

Experience Some Magic And Love As The Village Players Present Bell Book & Candle The Village are $15. Groups of Players present 10 or more can get Bell Book & tickets for $15 and Candle, a midreserved seating. century Gail Pierce American clasdirects Bell Book & sic written by Candle. Pierce John Van explained the show.

Duten. The orig“Bell Book & inal movie Candle has somestarred Kim thing to say about Novak and magic. I am not just Jimmy Stewart. Village Players will present Bell Book & Candle this referring to the October at the James McCabe Theatre located at spells and potions It became a 506 5th St. in Valrico. popular televithat spice up the sion spin off known as Bewitched. play, but the kind of magic that hapBell Book & Candle will begin with pens between two people and the the ever-popular Opening Night transformative power of true love,” Dinner Theatre. Village Players will said Pierce. present Bell Book & When Gillian Holroyd, Candle this October at the played by Valentina James McCabe Theatre Mandrin, casts a love spell Friday, October 6 at the on her neighbor, a handhistoric James McCabe some publisher named, Theatre in Valrico. The Shep Henderson, played by sponsor is Willie’s C.J. Hahlam, the last thing Seafood Restaurant. The she expects is to actually meal will feature their fall in love with him. famous catfish, red potaBell Book & Candle toes, green beans, shows that the heart turns coleslaw and hush puppies. Guests out to be trickier than any supernatuhave a choice of ice tea or water. ral power, and the play poses some Reservations are needed as seating is questions about the identity, finding limited. Dinner and the show is just one’s real, authentic self and how $35 per person. Doors open at 7 p.m. much is sacrificed and gained in the and the curtain goes up at 8 p.m. process. As the play goes on, Gillian Regular shows will be held on Holroyd discovers that humanity and Friday and Saturday, October 7, 13, vulnerability, for all its pain and messi14, 20 and 21. Doors open at 7:30 ness, provides infinite rewards. p.m. and the curtain goes up at 8 p.m.

Pierce said, “Do not think too There will be two Sunday matinees on much while watching the play. Just sit October 8 and 15. Doors open at 2:30 back, relax and let Bell Book & and the curtain goes up at 3 p.m.

Candle cast a spell on you.”

General admission for regular tickFor tickets and information, visit ets are $18. For students, seniors 65 www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com or and older and military with ID, tickets call 480-3147.

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October 2017

Page 41

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Birding Festival Takes Flight In South Shore

By Brittany Wallace

In the fall, the trips range from $30 to migration begins as $65. Some of the trips birds begin to move include boat rides and south joining the wagon rides. The field trips birds which permaare not just about birds. nently reside in the There are opportunities to Tampa Bay area. see other animals, and Locals can take there are also field trips time to enjoy learndedicated to insects such ing about and as dragonflies and butterwatching these Reese Collins, Bald Eagle expert will flies. To learn more about beautiful birds at have an expo on Saturday, October these field trips and regis14, about the recovery of our The Florida Birding ter for its limited spaces, national bird. and Nature visit www.floridFestival. In its second year, it will take abirdingandnaturefestival.org/FieldTrips.ht place Friday to Sunday, October 13 to 15. ml. All the seminars take place at Last year the Festival brought in over Hillsborough Community College South 300 visitors from all over North America Shore campus offering many subjects including Canada. It is predicted that such as preservation, different habitats, more people will attend this nature photography, and bird year. This large number of feeding. Eagle Optics, one of the people can be attributed to the largest vendors of binoculars and field trips, expos with speakers spotting scopes in the country, and children activities. will be in attendance at the Expo.

According to Mary Keith, Keith said, “Their representatives President of Tampa Audubon are just great at working with Society, “People come all over someone to determine what size, the world to go birding here, so shape, weight and price range why not celebrate it and bring everyone they need for binoculars.” together, where locals can show you Children’s activities will also take where these birds are.” place at the Hillsborough Community Twenty field trips will take place all College South Shore campus on over the Tampa Bay area. Those new to Saturday, October 14. Morning activities birding might enjoy Beginning Birding at will cater to Pre K through second Lettuce Lake Park. There will be field trips graders, and afternoon activities will be for photographers such as the Lettuce for third to sixth graders. Children must be Lake Regional Park Photography accompanied by a responsible adult.

Workshop. Field trips are all about fun, To find out more information about seeing a lot of different birds and learning the Florida Birding and Nature Festival about preservation and conservation visit floridabirdingandnaturefestival.org or lands where the trips take place. The field email info@fbnfestival.org.

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Let’s talk Assisted Living, and what it has to offer for those we serve.

• The most common reason one begins to seek an assisted living level of care for themselves or family member is for added assistance and supervision with daily care needs such as showering; and for medication management. Residents will often simply feel better with improved personal hygiene, and consistently taking medications as prescribed by their physician.

• Mealtimes should be a social occasion. Of course ensuring the nutritious intake of food and fluids is important as well, but the positive effects of interaction between residents in the dining room three times daily, every day cannot be minimized. Residents that ate their meals alone, in silence prior to joining a community often become a new person when provided the opportunity to engage in conversation during these times.

• Activities programming, once thought to be all about bingo, now includes a wide range of interesting, innovative, and FUN activities that will attract even the most introverted individual. Wii bowling, chair dancing, arts and crafts, bible study, walking groups, bunco, book club, yoga, and balance class are just a sample of the wide range of activities that residents can enjoy. What a thrill for family members when a new resident begins to participate, and enjoy, programs that they may have never tried in the past.

• Specialized care for those suffering from advancing stages of dementia can provide a safe, secure, and positive environment along with all of the other advantages of an assisted living level of care. These units often provide private, supervised dining; a secured patio or garden; and creative, lighthearted programming.

Assisted Living has made great strides in recent years impacting in a very positive way the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of aging individuals. And yes, these communities improve quality of life!

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Page 42

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Shopkins Live! Is Coming To The Lakeland Center Staff Report Shopkins an amazing advenLive! the first live ture that our North theatrical proAmerican fans can duction based experience.” on the phenomSince its enally successful launch in 2014, the Shopkins toy Shopkins brand continues to be a brand will bring hot ticket item for the national tour children worldwide. to The Lakeland Shoppies dolls conCenter on sistently rank as Tuesday, the #1 kids toy in October 10 at Shopkins Live!, the first live theatrical production based on the Shopkins toy brand will take place the U.S.; the first6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 10 at 6:30 p.m. at The ever Shopkins Based on Lakeland Center. movie, Shopkins America’s #1 toy brand, Youtube sensation and internation- Chef Club, was released last year by Universal Pictures Home Entertainment; al toy phenomenon created in Australia and numerous dedicated apps continue

by Moose Toys, Shopkins Live! will feato expand the brand’s ever-growing ture The Shoppies and Shopkins characworld. ters taking the stage with an all new stoShopkins Live! will run for approxiryline, original pop music and video highmately 90 minutes, with one 15-minute lights as ‘Jessicake’, ‘Bubbleisha’, intermission. For more information on ‘Peppa-Mint’ and friends prepare for Shopkins Live! visit www.shopkinsliveonShopville’s annual “Funtastic Food and tour.com and sign up to be the first to Fashion Fair”. hear about the pre-sale offer, on-sale “Shopkins is literally on every child’s dates and North American tour dates. wish list,” commented Paquin, who also The Shopkins Live! U.S. tour is repserves as Executive Producer of resented by APA. Shopkins Live! “Koba Entertainment’s Tickets are available at The Lakeland partnership with an innovative and leadCenter Box Office or by calling The ing toy manufacturer like Moose Toys Lakeland Center Box Office 863-834allows us to bring one of the most suc8111 or 888-397-0100, and online at cessful toy brands in history to life on www.thelakelandcenter.com. Regular box stage.” office hours are Monday-Friday 9:30 “We are thrilled to have Koba a.m.-5:30 p.m. The Lakeland Center is Entertainment presenting our first-ever located at 701 Lime St. in Lakeland. live theatrical show for Shopkins,” added For more information on Shopkins Hardiman. “This will be a fantastic event Live!, visit www.shopkinsliveontour.com. featuring the Shopkins and Shoppies in

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Page 43

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Bell Creek Diver Wins USA Diving National Championship

By Tamas Mondovics

Eleven-year-old Aiden to place in the Fishhawk resident top three. and sixth grade Bell “As we watched Creek Academy stuhis warmup, we dent Aiden Sadler began to worry that it had no doubt of postwouldn't happen, but ing a solid performwhen the meet began ance during this our hope was restored year’s USA Diving more and more with National each dive,” Melanie Championship held in said.

Columbus, OH this “We had to sweat summer. it out with each dive Competing until his last dive of Local diver, Aiden Sadler, 11, smiles against some of the round six. It seemed after winning first place in the 3-meter nation’s best junior like it took an eternity springboard competition at the USA Diving National Championship. divers, which will test for his score to display the nerves of even the best and most but when it did and showed his name as experienced athletes, winning first place the leader, we leaped from our seats and on the three meter springboard was both cheered like never before.” a proud moment and a qualifier for the Things, however were not over just future Olympian to represent TEAM USA yet as the family had to wait for two final in Victoria, Canada at the 2017 Junior divers who could have potentially defeatPan American Championships in ed Aiden.

October.

Aiden began diving four years ago Held every two years, the Union after his coach, Chris Colwill formed Americana de Natacion (UANA) Junior Team Colwill Diving at the Brandon Pan American Championships provide Sports and Aquatic Center, following his international competition experience for return from his second Olympics. junior divers from the Pan American With instruction and coaching from countries.

Chris combined with commitment and Competition is conducted in group A hard work, Aiden’s skills have improved (16-18), B (14-15), C (12-13) and D (11year after year. and-under) age groups.

“I have to practice, practice, practice,” Aside from wining the Gold, Sadler he said, adding, “I know I have to continplaced fifth in the 1-meter and seventh in ue progressing for the success to continthe 5-meter springboard competition. ue. I would like to be an Olympic diver, Sadler’s mom Melanie described the like my coach.” For results of the Pan Am nerve-wracking drama of the 3-meter Championships, visit final, emphasizing the family’s hope for www.teamusa.org/USA-Diving/Events/.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 10

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Irma Brings Community Together.

Special Coverage Pages 48-53

Ribbon Cutting For G. Fried Celebrates New Location

Thursday and Friday evening at 6 p.m.

Dinner With The Chef is an extraordinary opportunity to engage with Chef Cinzia over a gourmet meal every Saturday evening at 6 p.m. where you can share your foodie or travel experiences, discuss current food-related topics, and connect with likeminded members of the community in a convivial atmosphere.

Call 381-4999. Visit on On a recent Tasty Suitcase culinary tour, Judy White enjoys cooking with Chef Antonino Aiello Facebook at Tasty Venues or of Quanto Basta Cooking School in Sorrento, at www.mytastyvenues.com.

G. Fried Flooring America celebrated its new location at 231 Brandon Town Center Dr. (near Target). The new 5,700 sq. ft. showroom displays many carpets, tiles, hardwoods, luxury vinyl tiles and laminates offered by the company.

"We always offer installation on all the A ribbon cutting was recently held to celebrate G.Fried Flooring America’s new location at 231 Brandon Town Center Dr. products we sell, "said G. 11349 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview.

Fried Flooring America. “We have both Italy. your girlfriends and join in for a Bring certified sales professionals and certinight filled with shopping, pampering, Tasty Venues Launches New fied installation crews." wine and fun.

Come support local Culinary Experiences During the Grand Opening celebrawomen with 40 local businesses for Chef Cinzia Cripe recently returned tion, HGTV Design Star winner Jennifer local people in need. Event proceeds from heading up culinary tours in Sicily Bertrand was at the store for an excluwill go to support ECHO Outreach. For and the Amalfi Coast with exciting plans sive VIP reception. more information, email for expanded culinary exploration opporStarting on Friday, September 8 at leesapolley@yahoo.com. tunities at Tasty Venues. the store’s grand opening event and On the recent Tasty Suitcase culirunning through Tuesday, October 31, a nary tour, travel participants enjoyed portion of all sales will be donated to deluxe accommodations, historic sites the Ronald McDonald House Charities and architecture, gorgeous views, farms of Tampa Bay, Inc. and markets, Michelin-starred restauCall 642-3675 or visit https://gfriedrants and cooking classes. fa.com.

At Tasty Venues, located at 951 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, you can now Ladies Night Out enjoy brunch on Saturday, as well as HealthSource of Brandon will be already popular Sunday Brunch. the host its fourth Annual Ladies Night Out Both days take place from 11 a.m.-2 on Thursday, October 19 from 6-8:30 p.m. p.m. at the Barn at Winthrop, located at Cooking classes are held every

All Family Law Group, P.A. Accepted As 2017 AIOFLA’S 10 Best Law Firm For Client Satisfaction

The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys has recognized the exceptional performance of Florida’s Family Law Firm, All Family Law Group, P.A. as 2017 10 Best Family Law Firm for Client Satisfaction.

This third-party attorney rating organization publishes an annual list of the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in each state. Attorneys who are selected to the "10 Best" list must pass AIOFLA's rigorous selection process, based on client and/or peer nominations, thorough research, and AIOFLA’s independent evaluation. AIOFLA's annual list was

Continued on next page

Page 46

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Business Column Continued................... created to be used as a resource for clients during the attorney selection process.

Contact All Family Law Group, P.A. at 672-1900 or www.familymaritallaw.com.

By Michelle Colesanti

Adults And Kids Enjoy Kraftologee

Kraftologee has created a unique space where the little ones can skip back to the supervised play area to

Two Solvere Managed Senior Living Communities Coming to Tampa Area

As part of its ongoing growth, Solvere Senior Living will be managing two new senior living communities coming to the Tampa area.

Slated to open in early 2018, Tessera of Brandon is the first of the future sites and will be located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. The community will offer 89 assisted living apartments and 49 memory care suites. Tessera of Westchase will break ground late this summer at 11305 Countryway Blvd. in Tampa providing 64 assisted living apartments and 37 memory care suites.

Both Tessera communities will feature a multi-story, bright and energetic state-of-the-art living environment with one and two-bedroom assisted living apartments and memory care suites in various floor plans. It will also provide Solvere Senior Living’s proprietary wellness philosophies Salus™ (holistic approach) and Valeo™ (wellness initiatives for those memory impaired).

“Our Salus and Valeo programs are designed for successful aging by touching every aspect of residents’ lives and keeping them feeling engaged, honored and fulfilled,” said Kristin Kutac-Ward, president and CEO of Solvere Senior Living.

The Tessera of Brandon sales center is located at 221 Paul’s Dr. Suite B in Brandon and is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday through Friday and by appointment on weekends. Call 607-6880.

build LEGO models, play with cars or dolls, or grab a rainbow of crayons with which to color and draw while adults can enjoy a glass of fine wine, pint of local beer or a mug of made-to-order coffee. Should hunger strike, crispy-on-the-outside-chewy-onthe-inside Panini sandwiches can be pressed, filled up with grilled chicken and pesto or housemade meatballs and fresh mozzarella.

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Twin Creeks Receives Certificate Of Occupancy

Twin Creeks Assisted Living and Memory Care The Valrico Sunday Market begins its new season on October 22. in Riverview announced that it has received the final Certificate of Occupancy for the new community.

This 65,000 sq. ft. facility at 13470 Boyette Rd., near the intersection of Boyette and Bell Shoals Fifty artisans are expected to showRoads, will provide 80 private and comcase jewelry, wood works, glass, canpanion apartments in Assisted Living dles, flowers, baked goods, kids gifts, and Memory Care and is equipped with knife sharpening and more. There is a a full-service commercial kitchen, dining food court with live music. areas, library, conservatory, game room, The Sunday Market is located at salon and spa, screened porches, 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. (just south of bistros, outdoor courtyards and walking Bloomingdale Ave.) paths.

For more information, call 530-0922 Monthly costs for the community or visit www.ValricoSundayMarket.com. start at $3250 and vary Your Animal’s Care Is Priority At based on size New Pet Hotel and location Poochie's Pet Hotel, located in of apartments Valrico, is owned and operated by longand the type time resident Melissa Bostick. Poochie's of care a resi- Pet Hotel offers dog boarding, pet dent would boarding and doggy daycare. need.

Bostick’s plan to open Poochie's A ribbon Pet Hotel has been in the works for cutting will be many years. She wanted to provide the held on best quality care and wanted to offer her Thursday, October 5 from 4-6 p.m. clients peace of mind when leaving their Please plan to join in along with the furry friends. The hotel is situated on her Greater Riverview Chamber of property, so you may rest assured your Commerce. RSVP Danielle pet will be monitored day and night.

Webster at 551-2333.

Bostick has always had a passion for Prospective residents are animals and in the past has worked with encouraged to inquire at www.twin- several local rescue groups. Throughout creeksretire.com or call 336-2128 the years she has been known for nursto schedule a visit the community. ing sick animals back to health and

Return Of The Valrico Sunday Market

Friday from 8 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-8 p.m.

Volume 16, Issue 10

The Valrico Sunday Market outside of TMarie’s will begin again on October 22 from 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The seasonal market under the grandfather oaks returns as a weekly event that offers fun in the sun, shopping and serves as a gathering place for families and friends to bond, mingle and buy local.

placing them into their forever homes. She has also rescued several animals from known kill shelters. However, her passion is not limited to the rescue of domesticated animals; she has most recently rescued several farm animals from horrible conditions.

For information or to reserve space, call 526-2857 or email poochiespethotel@gmail.com. Visit www.poochiespethotel.com.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 47

Page 48

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 16, Issue 10

Hurricane Irma Tests Community Resilience As

Story and Photos By Tamas Mondovics

Photo By NOAA

Hurricane Irma, a major Category 5 storm, is shown as it is nearing Cuba on its way toward the Florida Keys in early September, 2017. Irma proved to be the most intense and dangerous storm to reach the state of Florida since Wilma in 2005.

As Irma stayed on track to reach the state, residents waited for hours to collect sandbags at the County’s Apollo Beach station.

Photo by Hillsborough County

Interim Sheriff Chad Chromister and Hillsborough County Commissioner Pat Kemp read an update on Hurricane Irma’s status just hours before it reached the state of Florida.

Florida Governor Rock Scott talks to the media about Hurricane Irma as it was approaching the peninsula as a Cat.5 storm.

It has been 12 years since Hurricane Wilma, the last major storm to make landfall in Florida and the most intense Atlantic hurricane to strike the United States since Katrina in 2005.

But when Irma formed on August 30 as a tropical storm and became a Category 2 hurricane on the Saffir–Simpson scale within a mere 24 hours and reached Category 3 hurricane (a major hurricane) shortly afterward, officials knew this could be the streakbreaker.

Ten days later Irma was done, but not before it has been forever Photo By NWS etched in the history books as one Taking 12-hour-shifts during the storm, hard working meteorologists at of the most powerful storms bringthe National Weather Service Tampa Bay office in Ruskin keep an eye on hurricane Irma’s path while distributing warnings to residents. ing with it coastal surge flooding, More than 17,000 people took refuge in Hillsborough County shelters flooding rainfall and damaging ahead of the storm.

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October 2017

Page 49

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

First Major Storm To Hit Community In 12 Years

Story and Photos By Tamas Mondovics

One community near the Alafia River in Lithia experienced one of the worst floodings following the storm, prompting Hillsborough County Fire Rescue to assist them with evacuation.

Area residents and Seeds of Hope mobilized to bring food, water and clothing for evacuees as they rallied together wasting no time coming to the aid of each other.

winds stretching from the northern Leeward Islands to the Southeast U.S. Irma plowed through portions of the Caribbean as a Category 5 hurricane to make landfall in Florida on September 10, first in the Keys and then near Marco Island on it way westward around the peninsula and then up the coast before running out of steam and crossing into Georgia.

The ninth named storm, fourth hurricane and second major hurricane of the 2017 Atlantic hurricane

season, Irma was one of only four hurricanes that have reached maximum sustained wind speeds of 185 mph or greater, which she maintained for nearly 40 hours; the longest on record. Irma has caused (at the time of writing) an estimated $62 billion in damage with some estimates closer to $100 billion and a total of 81 fatalities.

While Irma shed light on the human spirit, it was also a wakeup call for many who may have lost

their sense of urgency.

Unfortunately, hurricane season is only midway through. It is best to remember that it only takes one storm.

As one of the busiest in a decade, the 2017 hurricane season will leave no doubt about the need

for vigilance and advance preparation. A recap of the storm in photos puts things in a visual perspective.

For information, visit the www.noaa.gov.

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Practice Random Acts Of Kindness And Continue To Pay It Forward Campo YMCA Offers Showers And More For Residents After Flooding

By Kate Quesada

When Valrico ties to shower, residents living cool off in the along the Alafia air conditioning River experienced and use elecflooding in their tricity to charge homes after items and Wi-Fi to access the Hurricane Irma, the internet.

Campo YMCA and “As people its members jumped started coming into action providing showers, air condiThe Campo YMCA in Valrico opened its doors in we realized tioning, Wi-Fi and a to residents affected by the Alafia River flood- there were ing last month, offering supplies, showers and more needs,” place to pick up use of power and Wi-Fi. said Bentley. donations.

“Members quickly came through with According to Campo Family donations of towels, Activities Coordinator soap, shampoo and Alicia Bentley, between 30 conditioner. Y staff and 40 people used the helped by spreading facilities at the Valrico the word via YMCA location after their Facebook, sharing homes experienced our post and telling severe flooding when the families we had supAlafia River reached hisplies to hand out.” torically high levels, leavIn addition, meming many buildings under bers donated perishwater. able goods, water, “We started as a pickdiapers and baby up site for those affected wipes. to get donations that other “In our Kid Zone, community members had many families dropped off at Lithia expressed that they Springs Elementary were very thankful for School,” said Bentley. “We the supplies, especially the diapers and had about 15 to 20 families come and take donated items which made us real- wipes,” said Bentley.

Campo YMCA is located at 3414 ize we could offer them our facilities Culbreath Rd. in Valrico and can be too.” reached at 684-1371. For more informaThe YMCA offered affected resition, visit www.tampaymca.org. dents the opportunity to use their facili-

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Valrico Resident Coordinates Meals For Hundreds Of Linemen

By Kate Quesada

On a trip to rants and by the the grocery store next day her in the days folgroup was able lowing Hurricane to find and feed Irma, Valrico resiapproximately dent Alissa 300 linemen from Cribbs had an all over the counencounter that try with meals changed the lives from Midia’s Latin of hundreds of Grill, Zaxby’s, workers giving Beef O Brady’s, their time to help YoYo Juice, 3 C’s Florida residents.

Catering and Cribbs was at many more. a Publix deli with Friends also her children when brought homeshe saw a man in made pot pies, work clothes waitbrownies, water ing in line to and chips. order his lunch.

“The men She struck up a were tired, hunconversation gry and so thankabout the hurriful,” said Cribbs. cane and came to “We could tell find out that he how much the was a lineman delicious food from British meant to them.”

Columbia working But Cribbs to restore power and her team didto residents in the n’t stop there.

Brandon area.

The next day, Linemen are they decided to workers who feed a group of install and main70 National tain electrical Guardsmen in power, telephone addition to more or telegraph lines linesmen, this and thousands of time with help them came into from Hungry Florida from all Harry’s BBQ, over the country, Bubba Que’s, Valrico resident Alissa Cribbs organized a Bloomingdale many after just team of volunteers to distribute meals to providing relief to Pizza and linemen working to restore power to the victims of Davenport’s Daily area after Hurricane Irma.

Hurricane Harvey Delights. in Texas, to help restore power to “These workers needed comfort,” Florida residents in the heat during said Peggy Davenport of Davenport’s the wake of Irma.

Daily Delights, who made and donat“I felt the need to do something ed meals for the National Guard and to say thank you, so I insisted that I linesmen. “And what better way pay for his lunch,” said Cribbs, moth- could we bring them comfort than by er to Mason (8) and Ethan (12). “I feeding them food we made ouractually had to almost steal his food selves.” from him so he would let me pay for Over the course of three days, it, but when I did, he was so thankful Cribbs and her group fed more than that I decided there must be more 650 people in the Valrico, Lithia, workers like him out there that we Dover and Plant City areas. could help too.”

“They came to help us and feedWhen Cribbs got home, she post- ing them is just our small way of sayed on her Facebook page about her ing thank you,” said Cribbs. experience and within hours she had For more information on Tampa connected with friends working with Electric’s lineman, visit www.tampaTECO and others with local restauelectric.com.

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Practice Random Acts Of Kindness And Continue To Pay It Forward Paratroopers Help Clean-Up Lakeland Valrico/FishHawk Chamber Responds To Community Hurricane Needs Hurricane Damage

By Kate Quesada

By Kate Quesada

A local airport became home to some of the U.S. Army’s paratroopers last month in the days following Hurricane Irma, but when plans changed for the troops they helped their hosts return to business as usual.

Lakeland’s SUN ’n FUN Expo Campus and the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE) at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport suffered the loss of hundreds of trees and flooded structures when Hurricane Irma passed through the area, work that CEO John “Litem” Leenhouts felt would take weeks to repair.

“We were fortunate none of our structures sustained any major damage,” said Leenhouts.

“But the devastation to our beautiful trees, flooding and debris from the storm was going to require a major clean up.”

However, when the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division Task Force All American Lift, supported by the 3rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command from Fort Bragg, NC, requested the airport’s facilities for a staging area to help victims of the hurricane, Leenhouts and other airport officials were happy to oblige. A day later, more than 300 Paratroopers aboard 115 military vehicles arrived at the airport, turning the SUN ’n FUN campus into a vehicle compound and Hangar A into a barracks.

“We’re honored to host the Paratroopers from the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division Task Force recently helped clean up 82nd in their efforts to help Lakeland Airport after using it as a staging area in Florida,” said SUN ’n FUN Air Hurricane Irma response efforts.

Operations Director Greg kids, I can’t think of a better place for Gibson. us to get busy.”

But two days later, the troopers According to Gibson, it took the received word that their mission was troops only six hours to restore the changed and they were heading back campus to working order. to North Carolina.

“Paratroopers cut and hauled “This gave them some down time, trees and debris, cleared creeks and but time off is not how the 82nd operhelped load relief aircraft with supplies ates,” said Gibson. “First Sargeant headed to the Keys,” said Gibson, Charles E. Vaughn Jr. came to me who added that thanks to their efforts, with an offer: the 82nd Paratroopers wanted to help clean up SUN ‘n FUN.” no scheduled events had to be cancelled at the campus due to the storm.

“We came down here to help For more information on SUN ’n Florida recover from Irma, and that’s FUN, located at 4175 Medulla Rd. in what we’re going to do,” said Vaughn.

Lakeland, call (863) 644-2431 or visit “After seeing what this facility is to www.flysnf.org.

Lakeland and its mission with local

“So many As the people jumped dust settled on board,” said after Hurricane Haskins. “In Irma left the what felt like a Brandon area split second last month, we had more Melissa than we could Haskins, have expected President of to help ECHO the Valrico/Fish and the victims Hawk the flooding of Chamber of Members of the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of at the Alafia Commerce Commerce organized a food drive last month to help victims of Hurricane Irma in the Brandon area.

River.” noticed a need ECHO has been helping those in and the community was quick to help her need in the Brandon area for 30 years, fill it. providing immediate relief in the forms of Haskins, along with other members food, clothing and household items to resof the chamber, put together a food drive idents who have experienced a recent for Brandon’s Emergency Care Help emergency.

Organization (ECHO) at Plaza Bella in “Words cannot express how thankful Valrico that collected five pallets of food and supplies and more than $500 in cash I am to live in our community,” said Haskins. “Many thanks to those who voland gift cards within 24 hours for those in unteered their time and donated items. need in the community.

Special thanks to John with NE Where “As a board member of ECHO, it Transport for donating the box truck and came to my attention that they had more Scott and Rose with YoYo Juice for the people coming to them for food and supdonation of the food truck to keep the perplies than ever before in the wake of the ishables cold. Also thank you to Tiffany hurricane,” said Haskins, who also operates an Edwards Jones Financial office in with Marco’s Pizza in FishHawk for donatthe area. “It was apparent that these peo- ing the pizzas to feed our crew of volunple really needed help from our communi- teers throughout the day and to Roz and Mark Creager with Green Boutique and ty so I felt that I needed to do something Plaza Bella for their generous donations about it.” of supplies and allowing us to set up colWithin hours, members of the lection in parking lot.”

Valrico/FishHawk and SouthShore For information on the ValricoChambers advertised the needs to the FishHawk Chamber, call 685-0935 or visit community and set up a donation spot www.valricofishhawk.org. ECHO can be outside The Green Boutique off reached at 685-0935.

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Practice Random Acts Of Kindness And Continue To Pay It Forward Operation Lotus Fulfills Mission In Wake Of Irma By Kate Quesada When a natural linemen, who disaster comes work long hours through a region every day, many there are many from different opportunities to help states away those less fortunate. from their famiFishHawk resident lies, were not Melanie Brockmeierreceiving good Jordy used her charilunches so she ty Operation Lotus to rallied a team of make life easier for volunteers to Melanie Brockmeier-Jordy of Operation Lotus search out the as many as she coordinated volunteers to help victims of the could from flood vicAlafia River flooding and feed linesmen and workers and National Guard members in the wake of tims to members of feed them hot Hurricane Irma. the National Guard in meals. the wake of Hurricane Irma last month.

“Our goal was to find a way boost “When I returned from evacuating their morale and let them know how truly after the hurricane, I immediately knew I thankful we were for their hard work,” she had to help,” said Brockmeier-Jordy who said. started Operation Lotus after her husband After successfully feeding more than Leon passed away five years ago.

250 linemen, Brockmeier-Jordy and her Operation Lotus’ mission is to restore group focused their attention on the hope for people going through a tragedy National Guard the next day, working with or life changing event, so BrockmeierPeggy Davenport of Davenport’s Daily Jordy quickly jumped into action when Delights, Bubba Que’s and Hungry she heard about the homes flooding on Howies. Community members also conthe Alafia River in Valrico and started tributed homemade desserts. working with Lithia-based charity Seeds “The Captain told us it was the to Hope to provide the victims with their biggest morale booster they had received immediate needs of food and water. since starting the relief efforts,” said “One family needed a U-Haul and Brockmeier-Jordy. help cleaning out their home of everything Operation Lotus has many fundraisthat could be saved. In just a few minutes ers coming up to raise money to help I had a whole group of volunteers for those in need in the community, including this,” she said. the Leon Brockmeier Memorial Gold Immediately following Irma, she Tournament in December, a bingo night organized a group of 10 local restaurants at Hamburger Mary’s on October 2 and donating food for linemen working to Poker Night at Summerfield Golf Club on restore power and National Guardsmen October 15. Visit www.operationlotus.org stationed in Plant City. She heard that or call 541-8195.

Brandon Residents Raise Funds For Devastated St. Thomas

By Kate Quesada

When Rick and allowed to leave their Debbie Ploor and their homes between 12 family set off for their Noon and 5 p.m. vacation in St. Thomas “It was so hard to in early September, feel so trapped and they had no idea the helpless,” said Debbie, adventure that awaited who explained that them and how it would there were only a few places in the area change their perspecwhere cell phones tive on life. worked at all and even The couple was these calls were vacationing with family and friends in St. dropped very frequently.

Thomas in the U.S. During this time, they Virgin Islands when were also worried about Hurricane Irma hit as a the track of Irma over Rick and Debbie Ploor were category five storm Florida and how it may stranded on the island of St. causing immense impact their Brandon Thomas when Hurricane Irma hit destruction, which home. as a category five storm. They have organized a Go Fund Me trapped them on the However, despite page to help residents there who many St. Thomas resiisland for six days until lost everything rebuild their lives. they were rescued by a dents losing everything, people all over the island came together Norwegian Line cruise ship. In an effort and helped themselves and each other. to help the citizens who lost everything Debbie is specifically thankful to the in the storm, many who helped the property manager of the house where Ploors while they were there, the Brandon couple have set up a Go Fund they stayed, a lady named Candice, Me page to raise money to send to the whose home was completely destroyed island. in the storm, but still showed up to help The Ploors, who rented a home in the Ploors secure their house and Mahogany Run, a golf course communi- helped them make a plan to get off the ty in the mountainous region of the island. island, traveled with their adult daughters Six days after the storm passed, the and four friends to celebrate Rick doing Ploors and their friends were able to get on a cruise ship sent specifically to reswell in his fight with cancer. With little cue people from St. Thomas. They made communication during their vacation, by the two and one half day trip on the the time they realized the hurricane was Norwegian Star from the island to Miami headed their way, there were no flights and were beyond relieved to finally make to get them off the 32-sq.-mile island. it back home nine days after the storm hit.

After securing the four-year-old-house Despite being relieved to be in and collecting supplies, they rode out the Florida, the Ploors could not forget about worst parts of the hurricane in a safe the people that helped them and how bedroom, but were amazed to see the hard it will be for them to rebuild their destruction after the storm passed. lives, especially as they had been told it “It was like a bomb went off,” said could be up to a year before the island Debbie, who explained that she had gets power restored. So they decided to been told the eye of the storm passed a set up a Go Fund Me page and plan to mile from where they were and the area clocked winds of 225 miles per hour and send any money they are able to get donated to Candice and the others who sustained winds of 185 miles per hour. they met during their stay on the island.

“The older homes around us were just “It was so hard to leave behind the destroyed with windows blown out and wonderful people who treated us so walls and roofs gone. The lush, green amazingly,” said Debbie. “We can’t stop foliage and vegetation that made the thinking about them and how much help area so beautiful before was also comthey will need rebuilding their lives. We pletely gone. It was like everything had really want to make sure they are not fordisintegrated.”

Due to the destruction on the island, gotten.”

To help the Ploors raise money for there were no flights leaving the airport, the people of St. Thomas, visit their Go no power, very little food and gas and it was very hard to communicate with any- Fund Me page at /www.gofundme.com/GivingbacktoStTho one. There was also a curfew in effect, mas. so residents and vacationers were only

Practice Random Acts Of Kindness And Continue To Pay It Forward Seeds Of Hope Meets Alafia River Community Needs After Floods

Local Schools Host Community Members During Hurricane Irma

When the group of famiAlafia River lies would need flooded in the help with food wake of and clothes,” Hurricane Irma said Patterson. last month, “What it turned residents living into is a huge in affected on-going project areas lost their to help these homes and people get back possessions, on their feed Volunteers with Seeds of Hope coordinated an outleaving them pouring of donations from the community for those and make sure affected by the flooding of the Alafa River after they are not forwith many long Hurricane Irma last month. gotten.” and short term In order to best serve the flooding needs. Within hours, the surrounding victims, Seeds of Hope turned over the community jumped into action with donaclean-up portion of the relief effort to tions of food, water, clothes and offers to FishHawk Fellowship Church and is now help clean and rebuild, under the leadership of Lithia-based charity Seeds of focusing on getting to know the individual Hope. families affected and helping them in per“Before most people knew the floodsonal ways. ing had occurred, we had trucks full of “We want help by building relationdonations headed to our food bank,” said ships with the people in need,” said Seeds of Hope Mobile Food Bank Patterson who bonded with many of the Director Jennefier Patterson. “By the end victims when they came into the food of the first day, we had so many donabank following the flooding. tions we had taken over the church next Seeds of Hope has set up a separate door and had a storage unit full of water. account for people to donate to the flood It was an incredible community victims and Patterson suggests that anyresponse.” one who wants to help follow the Seeds Seeds of Hope President Leda Eaton of Hope Facebook page where they will set up a response center for the flooding be posting specific needs for the families victims at the Shell Gas station on Lithia as they arise. They will also continue to Pinecrest Rd. and with a team of volunoperate the weekly food bank and are teers helped distribute donations of food, always looking for volunteers to help sort water and clothing to those affected and and distribute food. coordinated help for the victims to clean The food pantry is located next to the out and start rebuilding their homes.

Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale at “When the flooding first happened, 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. Visit we thought it would maybe mean that a www.sohopefl.org or call 489-4599.

When Hillsborough dents a safe place to ride County Schools closed as out Hurricane Irma.

Hurricane Irma According to Bevis approached the area last Second Grade Teacher month, more than 40 disAmy Terkhorn, school trict buildings became staff and community shelters for residents that members received very needed a safe place to go little notice that the school to ride out the storm. would be opened as a Many schools in the shelter.

Eastern Hillsborough “When we got word School administration and staff, County area were among the school had been choas well as community volunteers, readied Colleen Bevis the shelters, including sen to be a shelter, we Elementary School to host close only had a couple of Bloomingdale High to 400 evacuees during School, Barrington Middle Hurricane Irma. Many teachers hours to get everything returned to their classrooms to ready,” said Terkhorn, School and Stowers and find notes of thanks.

Bevis elementary who explained that in schools. With short notice to prepare the addition to the multi-purpose rooms, all buildings for the hundreds of residents classrooms on the bottom floor of the seeking refuge from the storm, school school were used by close to 400 evacteachers, staff and administration, parents uees. “Very quickly between 40 and 50 and community members came together people showed up to help ready the to ready classrooms and common areas. classrooms by moving the furniture to the According to Hillsborough County edges of the rooms and securing teachSchools Communications Officer Tanya ers’ personal items.”

Arja, the school district partners with the Bevis Parent Teacher Association Hillsborough County Office of Emergency (PTA) President Pinkal Patel was one of Management and the American Red the volunteers who readied the school.

Cross to provide emergency shelters. All “It was so impressive to see how schools are rated and inspected for use many staff members and volunteers as a public shelter, but 62 sites have came running to help us set up,” said been identified and designated specificalPatel. “It felt like we were ready in two ly. Shelters are then opened in waves as hours.” the need arises, some are additionally “Many teachers came into the school identified to host residents with special to get their classrooms ready to find notes needs and some allow evacuees to bring of thanks for sheltering,” said Terkhorn. “It animals. was extremely heart warming.”

Colleen Bevis Elementary in Lithia is Bevis Elementary is located at 5720 a designated High Intensity Shelter which Osprey Ridge Dr. and can be reached at opened on September 10 to allow resi740-4000. visit hillsboroughcounty.org.

By Kate Quesada

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Page 54

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Benefit Motorcycle Ride Will Help Fund Mobile Shower Facilities For Homeless

CFC037149

By Michelle Colesanti

Showered and Empowered was initiEmpowered, Inc., a ated from my new 501(c)(3) Christian leadership organization is class at Trinity College fundraising to purback in October chase a new 2016. I needed to do mobile a paper on something shower/laundry that had not been trailer to better started in this ‘Betty’ will be part of the serve the homearea and write a festivities on Sunday, less community in paper on how October 29 for the Hillsborough and my leadership Motorcycle Benefit Ride, which will take Pinellas counties. skills would place at Quaker Steak The organization make this nonand Lube in will hold ‘Helping profit successClearwater. the Homeless ful. It was startBenefit Motorcycle Ride’ on Sunday, ed and evolved from there.”

October 29.

She graduated last May with her The mission is to compassionately Bachelors in Christian Ministry from honor another’s humanity by providing Trinity as Valedictorian, Summa Cum those who are living in shelters, encampLaude and received nonprofit status just ments or out of their vehicles access to three days after graduation. She has mobile showers and laundry facilities at been working diligently to get this ministry no cost, and to provide dignity and hope off the ground while also currently workto them one shower at a time. ing as a full time operating room nurse.

The Executive Director is Brandon The Motorcycle Benefit Ride will resident Christina Jenkins. “Since we will begin at Quaker Steak and Lube, located be able to go to them, this will enable us at 10400 49th St. N. in Clearwater. The to reach more of the ones who do not cost is $20 per rider and $10 per passenhave access or the ability to get to someger. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and where to shower and launder their kickstands up at 10:30 a.m. There will be clothes,” she said. a 50/50, raffles and an auction.

Future goals of the organization Showered and Empowered is also include purchasing more trailers in order looking for both sponsors and volunteers to facilitate surrounding communities, to help with the upcoming Benefit Ride. counties and throughout Florida. Jenkins For more information or to help, noted that they are looking forward to please call Jenkins at 575-2057. You can partnering with local ministries, county register online at www.showeredandemand government agencies for available powered.com/register/1st-annual-benefitresources and their support. motorcycle-ride or on the morning of the Jenkins said, “Showered and event at the venue.

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Page 55

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Davenports Daily Delights Celebrates Three Years Of Making Home Cooked Dinners Easy

By Kate Quesada

Next time Davenport posts her you are having weekly menu days in trouble deciding advance on the busiwhat to make for ness Facebook page. dinner, think Every day the menu about FishHawk features multiple meal resident Peggy choices including lowDavenport. calorie and Whole 30 Every weeknight diet compliant options. an average of Most dishes can be between 150 ordered in both full FishHawk residents Peggy & John and 200 people Davenport and team at Davenport’s Daily and half size portions Delights make pick-up meals for residents to feed four or two around the throughout the Tampa area.

Tampa area eat adults. Some of her meals prepared by Davenport and her most popular dishes include favorites team through her business, Davenport’s from her southern background like shrimp Daily Delights. and grits and fried chicken with all the traDavenport came up with the idea for ditional sides, but her stuffed peppers and her business, which recently celebrated soup and Japanese Steakhouse Hibachi its third anniversary, at her son’s baseball Style nights are also very popular. practice.

“All of my recipes have a story,” said “We were sitting there talking about Davenport. “They come from family, what to make for dinner and a friend friends and meals that we have eaten offered me some money to make extra while traveling and all have great memofor her,” said Davenport, who moved to ries that we are happy to be able to pass the area 10 years ago from North on to our customers.”

Carolina.

Davenport and her team cook the The idea grew from there and before meals at a kitchen in South Tampa and long, Davenport’s Daily Delights had food can be picked up there or at Art 1,000 Facebook followers regularly order- Monkey in FishHawk’s Park Square ing Davenport’s food. Three years later between 4 and 7 p.m. Delivery is also and the page has 5,500 users and available for a $5 fee to FishHawk, Davenport has a kitchen team of five Riverview, Apollo Beach, Brandon, employees and her husband John.

Valrico, Dover, Carrolwood, South Tampa, “I think we have been so successful Seminole Heights, Westchase and because people want an easy way to Wesley Chapel. Catering is also available provide a healthy, balanced meal for their for parties and special occasions. families,” said Davenport, who jokes that For information, find Davenport’s her team makes everything but the pasta Daily Delights on Facebook, visit from scratch. www.davenportsdailydelights.com or call In order to serve her customers, 315-9123.

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Page 56

Volume 16, Issue 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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PRIVATE HALF ACRE LOT! 4/3/3 + office + bonus + pool home in Fish Hawk Trails! Wood floors, crown, wood-burning fireplace, French doors, tray ceilings, separate formals & more! Private conservation lot!

New A/C unit in 2016! $509,000

BEAUTIFUL HOME IN EGRET LANDING IN FISHHAWK RANCH! 3/2.5/2 + office + bonus Cardel "Sawgrass" home that is bathed in natural light with volume ceilings, neutral paint, tile floors & lots of windows! Chef's kitchen with espresso cabinets, island, granite & stainless appliances! $320,000

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STUNNING WESTBAY "BISCAYNE II" HOME! 5/4/3 + bonus + pool home that will impress from the start with Craftsman style elevation, pavered driveway & entrance! Neutral paint, wide base, plantation shutters, 8 ft doors & more! Kitchen with 42" espresso cabinets, granite, huge island & stainless appliances! $519,000

MAGNIFICENT HOME OF OVER 5,000 SQ FT ON 5.84 ACRES! 5/5.5/4 + office + bonus + pool/spa home in Gated Hammock Oaks!

DETACHED GUEST HOUSE! This home offers all the high-end finishes you would expect! Take a look at my website for more info & photos! $899,000 G EWN N STI LI

0.61 ACRES ON CONSERVATION LOT IN FISH HAWK TRAILS! 3/3/3 + office + bonus + pool/spa home with pond views! NEW ROOF Oct 2016, wide base, plantation shutters, crown, fireplace & more! Kitchen with 2017 refaced kitchen cabinets & granite counters! $519,000

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ONE OF A KIND CUSTOM HOME IN FISH HAWK TRAILS! 5/4/3 + office + bonus + pool/spa home sitting on 1/2 acre lot with no backdoor neighbors!

Coveted in-law suite with kitchenette!

Wood floors, fireplace & upgraded kitchen! Fully fenced! $549,900

CUSTOM BUILT, DESIGNER HOME IN FISH HAWK TRAILS! 4/3.5/3 + office + bonus + pool home on oversized lot!

This home offers many features & would make a great family home!

Over 4,300 sq.ft gives you ample room for you & your family! $578,000

HUGE 0.35 ACRE LOT IN GUARD GATED RIVER HILLS! 4/3.5/3 + office + bonus + pool/spa home siting between 10th & 18th fairways! Drop dead gorgeous home that has been remodeled! Wood floors, crown, plantation shutters, fireplace & designer kitchen! Look at my website!

Amazing! $598,000

BRENDA (813) 924-8677 OFFICE (813) 655-5333 BRENDA@BRENDAWADE.COM Signature Realty Associates Top Producer 2002 - 2016

WWW.BRENDAWADE.COM

GORGEOUS FISH HAWK TRAILS HOME! 4/3/3 + pool/spa home that sits on 0.48 acre lot overlooking a pond! This beauty offers wood floors, plantation shutters, 20" tile, crown, wide base & granite & California closets throughout!

Gourmet kitchen! Pavered lanai with outdoor kitchen! $625,000