Bloomingdale/FishHawk
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December 2017 Volume 16, Issue 12 Ph: 657-2418 1 5
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BayCare Health Systems Breaks Ground On $53M Facility In Bloomingdale
By Tamas Mondovics
C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
Bloomingdale Grad Hits The Red Carpet And Stars In Netflix Hit Series Fans of the Netflix hit Orange is the New Black (OITNB) will be excited to learn that one of the stars of the show grew up right in our backyard. Actress Beth Dover, who plays Linda Ferguson on the show, spent her Bloomingdale High teenage years in School Class of 1996 Valrico and grad- graduate Beth Dover now stars in the uated from Netflix hit Orange is Bloomingdale the New Black. High School in 1996. Dover moved to the area after her step-father retired from the Air Force in the early 1990s. Born in Chicago, she had previously moved every two years, even spending time living in South Korea. At 13, she attended Burns Middle School, then Bloomingdale High School and went on to graduate from the University of Florida with a theater degree. “I have fond memories of my high school experience,” said Dover who still has family and friends in the area. “It was a great place to be a young actor.” During her time in Florida, Dover, who was voted Best Smile in her high school class was able to act in Nickelodeon shows including Kenan and Kel and Welcome Freshmen in Orlando and was active in the Village Players community theatre in Valrico. After college, she moved to New York City and then Los Angeles, where she currently lives with her husband, actor Joe Lo Truglion, and son. Dover filmed a number of shows including Burning Love on E!, New Girl and Fresh Off the Boat. Dover began her roll in OITNB, which has won Golden Globes, Emmys and SAG awards, in the show’s third season. Her character, who works in administration for the company that owns Litchfield
By Kate Quesada
Prison and is the girlfriend to Joe Caputo, one of the show’s main characters, has grown over the last two seasons. The fifth season of the show was released in June. “I honestly thought I was going to be in one episode,” said Dover. “I never in a million years thought I would be coming back.” In addition to OITNB, Dover can also be seen currently on Netflix’s Wet Hot American Summer and Comedy Central’s Another Period. All five seasons of OITNB can be seen on Netflix. Dover’s advice to aspiring actors is simple, “Stay in class,” she said. “Surround yourself with actors who inspire you. Create work with those people. Do something every day to take you one step closer to your goal, but create a balance in your life because this business is hard and there are no guarantees of success so you’ll want to be happy in your personal life as well.”
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BayCare executives, healthier.” local chamber members, Cote specifically elected officials and mentioned the facility’s community members no-waiting room congathered last month for cept of a doctor’s office the ceremonial groundpromoting a single regbreaking of the health istration where patients care provider’s newest, check in just once for one-of-its-kind facility. multiple services at the Promoted as a new central registration model of health care, the desks. wellness destination is “We have created designed to fit residents’ this wellness destinaPhoto by Tamas Mondovics lifestyle and needs, and BayCare Health Systems execu- tion with one goal in tives Matt Novak, Kimberly Guy, is a $53 million commumind – to keep resiJim Cote and Bill Ulbricht pause for nity investment named dents in the greater a photo during a groundbreaking BayCare HealthHub at Brandon area healthy ceremony of HealthHub at Bloomingdale. Bloomingdale, 2470 and prevent symptoms Bloomingdale Ave., behind the former before they happen,” Cote said. Albertsons supermarket in Valrico. The new campus will include a halfBayCare officials proudly explained mile walking trail, a serenity garden, free that the 115,000-sq. ft. two-story wellness parking and valet. center sitting on a 21-acre campus is Emphasizing BayCare’s investment scheduled to open early 2019 and is said in the community, St.Joseph’s Hospital to integrate traditional health care servicpresident for Hillsborough and East es such as primary care, pediatrics, reha- Pasco counties Kimberly Guy commentbilitation, imaging and laboratories with fit- ed, not only about the health but also the ness classes, nutrition education and like- economic benefits that the new facility is minded retailers to promote healthy living. promising to bring when she said, “The Patients are promised to experience HealthHub at Bloomingdale will bring 150 a streamlined visit from the moment they new jobs. We are truly investing in the walk in the door as they check in just continued success of this community.” once at a central registration desk for BayCare, a not-for-profit health care multiple health and wellness services. system currently boasts of providing indi“With BayCare HealthHub at viduals and families a wide range of servBloomingdale, we’re creating a new ices at 14 hospitals and hundreds of model for health care,” said Jim Cote, other locations throughout the Tampa Bay senior vice president for Ambulatory and central Florida regions. Services at BayCare Health System, after Inpatient and outpatient services welcoming a large crowd that gathered include acute care, primary care, imaging, for the ceremony. “This facility will be a laboratory, behavioral health, home care, one-stop destination–incorporating techand wellness. nology and convenience to not just treat For information, visit symptoms, but also to help keep families www.BayCare.org.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
December 2017
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Bloomingdale’s Rajun’ Bull Band Receives Superior At FBA 31 Straight Years
By Amy Fluty
Bloomingdale’s Rajun’ Bull Band has received a Superior rating for the 31st year in a row at the FBA Marching MPA on November 4.
The Florida Bandmaster Association (FBA) Marching MPA for District 7 was held at Gaither High School in November. The Bloomingdale High School Rajun’ Bull Band and Crimson Guard received a superior rating for the 31st year in a row. This year the Rajun Bull Band’s show was Tales of Kings and Castles with music selections from Robin Hood Prince of Thieves, Gladiator, and Game of Thrones. Many hours of hard work were put in by the students, directors and volunteers. The Rajun’ Bull band is under the direction of Jon Sever with Billy Sullivan and Coleen Petree directing the Crimson Guard. Band Director Sever had this to say, “The kids did a great job with the diversity of all of the storms and cancellations and for that reason, I am particularly proud of this program.” Now that marching season has
come to an end, the band will be busy preparing for upcoming events in December. On Saturday, December 9 it will participate in the Snow on 7th parade in Ybor City. This is a fun event for the whole family and will be sure to put you in the holiday spirit. On Thursday, December 14, the band will perform its winter concert at Bloomingdale High School. A collection of new unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots will be made at the concert, which is sure to put a smile on your face while your donation of a toy will bring one to someone else. Lori Brown has been a band mom and volunteer for many years. “Our family has been a part of the Rajun Bull marching band for the past nine years. Each of our three children played in the marching band all four years of high school and absolutely loved doing so. Watching the kid’s progress each season over the years has been amazing to see. The band is awesome and if you ever get the opportunity to watch them perform or to volunteer, I highly recommend you do so.” On Saturday, January 27, 2018 the band will be holding the ‘Running of the Bulls’ 5K run at Bloomingdale High School, 1700 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Visit www.facebook.com/bloomingdalebulls5k/. The fee for this event is $30 and you can register for the run at https://fitniche.com/event/running-bulls5k/. Proceeds will go to the Band.
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Staff Report
The semi-finals, and Barrington finals events the Middle Barrington FFA School team was Future named second Farmers of runner-up in the America United States. (FFA) The 2017 Chapter National FFA recently Organization proved it Second can stand Barrington Middle School FFA Chapter was named Top Runners-Up tall as one Conduct of Premier Chapter in the Nation at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana in October. of the top Meetings LDE FFA programs in the country. In October team members include David Ferrell, seven students and two advisors repreLogan Goodyear, Will Haxton, Carter sented the school and Florida at the Howell, Erin McAneny, Brynne Murphy National FFA Convention in Indianapolis. and Aidan Routh, supported by advisors The Barrington FFA Chapter had Brittany Coleman and Greg Lehman and already been recognized by the National the Barrington Middle School FFA Alumni. FFA Association as a National Premiere "Our Chapter has done so much for Chapter. During the convention, students all of us. I'm so excited that we can give Carter Howell and Will Haxton delivered a back and represent our Chapter and presentation on the Chapter’s annual school in this competition," said Will Strawberry U-Pick program. On the Haxton, former Barrington FFA Chapter strength of this presentation and the subPresident. mitted program package, the Chapter The national competition in October was named the Top Premier Chapter in culminated many months of after school the Nation for Strengthening Agriculture, and weekend preparation for these stugiving Florida its only National Champion. dents and advisors. This past summer, the Barrington “These kids have taken this program FFA “Conduct of Chapter Meetings” team and that community awareness to the top won the Florida state competition in of the mountain. I’m just so proud of Orlando, besting other chapters within them,” said Greg Lehman, Agri-Science Florida – the majority of which were high teacher and FFA Advisor at Barrington. school students. The Barrington Middle School FFA The Barrington Team earned the right chapter thanks everyone who supported to represent Florida and compete against these students for through donations or 38 other state winners across America. participating in the numerous community Following a written exam, preliminary, car washes and raffles.
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Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Headline Entertainment Lineup Announced For 2018 Florida Strawberry Festival
By Kate Quesada
The Florida Strawberry Festival released its lineup of headline entertainment artists performing on the Wish Farms Soundstage at the 2018 Florida Strawberry Festival. The 11-day community event will take place from March 111. Over 24 headline entertainment artists perform every year on the Wish Farms Soundstage and comprise one of the most popular attractions at the event, Davis said. Advance tickets for admission and for headline entertainment shows will go on sale Thursday, Dec. 7 at 8 a.m. and can be purchased online at www.flstrawberryfestival.com, at the Amscot Main Ticket Office located at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City or by calling 754-1996. “The theme of this year’s festival is ‘Building New Memories!’ with a strong emphasis on the construction of our new GT Grandstands seating area,” said Florida Strawberry Festival President Paul Davis.
The event’s board of directors broke ground on the project in March, and construction is expected to be complete by the end of the month. The new bleacher-style seating will accommodate 9,200 total guests, is closer to the stage and will be more comfortable for guests, Davis said. Another change with the construction project is that the event will no longer offer free seating to headline shows. “This was an extremely difficult decision for us,” said Davis. “But we absolutely had to construct new seating. And when you start crunching the numbers, there was just no way economically for us to offer free seats any longer.” The 83rd Annual Florida Strawberry Festival will take place March 1-11. Beginning in January, specials, discounts and free entertainment will be announced at www.flstrawberryfestival.com.
2018 LINE UP:
Thursday, March 1 Friday, March 2 Saturday, March 3 Sunday, March 4 Monday, March 5 Tuesday, March 6 Wednesday, March 7 Thursday, March 8
10:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 10:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.
Friday, March 9 Saturday, March 10 Sunday, March 11
3:30 7:30 3:30 7:30
p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m.
3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.
Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra Oak Ridge Boys DNCE Jerry Lee Lewis Justin Moore and Dylan Scott Cam The Band Perry Lee Greenwood REBA McENTIRE Jimmy Fortune Josh Turner Gaither Vocal Band Casting Crowns Engelbert Humperdinck Trace Adkins The Lettermen Drifters, Platters and Cornell Gunter’s Coasters I Love the 90s Tour featuring Vanilla Ice, Tone Loc and Salt-N-Pepa Charley Pride Earth, Wind & Fire Sawyer Brown Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds and Anthony Hamilton Chase Bryant Brad Paisley
Local Teachers Speak Out On District’s Backdown From Step Pay Increase
By Tamas Mondovics
Hillsborough County Public School (HCPS) teachers took their concerns over the District’s plan to forgo a once negotiated raise to the streets last month. Unhappy with the way they fit into HCPS’s
ees more than $200 million in pay and benefits increases over the past four years, despite a district financial picture that was not promising,” said HCPS spokesperson Tanya Arja, adding that due to such increases, the Randall Middle School teachers, parents and students district’s fund balance, or its savings account, has line the roadway across from the school voicing their concern about the District’s plan to back down from a dropped dramatically as pay plan that would raise teachers’ salaries for most by increased pay has been $4,000 every three years. given out. At the same time funding from the Legislature has not kept current financial future, a small group of Randall Middle School teachers, support- up with the amount needed to pay for additional costs. ed by students and some parents, lined Arja emphasized that the district has the roadway across the schoolyard to balance priorities and budgets annually encouraging motorists and passersby to to focus on all aspects of what it takes to raise awareness of the issue. help students succeed. “It’s a demonstration against the School officials zeroed in on revenue school board’s plan to backtrack from a drying up, that is funding coming into the pay plan that would raise teachers’ district to pay for salaries and the other salaries for most by $4,000 every three things, which are not keeping pace with years,” said Randall business and techgrowth and costs. nology teacher Jonathan Bock. The two main challenges reportedly Bock, who himself has already facing the district are: state Legislature is received the first round of raises added shifting money to charter schools that had that the main concern is that the money supported education in traditional public to be paid out was already negotiated. schools for decades; a growing number “All this was promised,” he said, of students from all backgrounds are adding, “Contract negotiations should be choosing to attend tuition-free charter conducted before the school year starts.” schools, redirecting state education Teacher salaries in the district reportedly money out of traditional public schools. start at $38,000 and max out at around For now—before it moves ahead $66,000, and with more than 14,000 with anything that would involve spending teachers, it is by no means chump more money—the district is promising to change. gather information about its financial picAccording to a recent estimate, ture along with student enrollment. ‘Band jumpers’ (teachers advancing to The School Board has recently the next three-year pay level) would reportedly cost the district nearly $18 mil- scheduled to hold a pair of hearings on its close to $3 billion 2017-18 budget. lion. Bock summed up the effort of the Adding to the mix is annual cost-ofliving increase, pay differentials for teach- group of teachers standing on the roadway with signs in hand hoping for their ers and raises for classroom aides. promised raises when he said, “Our mesIn a recent release to the media sage is, honor what you said.” HCOS officials expressed the school For more information about board’s concern about all county teachHillsborough County Public Schools, ers and students. please visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. “Our district has given our employ-
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Free Education Resources Now Available At New 24/7 PBS KIDS Channel
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Parents and provide educational teachers in West resources that help Central Florida now children learn to read, have access to thouwrite and think criticalsands of free educaly,” said Susan tional resources with Howarth, president the addition of the and CEO of WEDU 24/7 PBS KIDS PBS. “Adding PBS channel on WEDU. KIDS allows us even More than 130,000 more opportunities to free online resources help the children in our including educational communities learn and videos, games and grow.” Check lesson plans are WEDU now out available for educabroadcasts PBS KIDS Daniel Tiger’s shows 24 hours a day tors and parents to use as a companion and offers a live Neighborhood on WEDU’s new PBS to popular PBS stream, making it easy Kids channel. KIDS programs like for children to watch Sesame Street, Arthur, and Daniel Tiger’s their favorite series during primetime and Neighborhood, which are now broadcast other after-school hours when viewing on the new PBS KIDS channel. The free among families is high. PBS KIDS is available on digital channel 3.5 and resources are available at Frontier channel 473. WEDU PBS is florida.pbslearningmedia.org. working with other cable providers to add Research shows these educational the new channel. The PBS KIDS live resources make a difference. Students outperformed national assessment norms stream can be accessed online at www.wedu.org/kids/. by 10 percent on average when these For more information about the resources were integrated into existing resources available for educators in curriculum, according to a 2015 study by WEDU PBS’s 16-county coverage area, the Education Development Center’s Center for Children and Technology. Plus, contact Gail Taylor, Director of Educational Services, at parents rank PBS KIDS above all other gtaylor@wedu.org. Parents and teachers kids’ television networks in preparing children for school, helping them develop the can also receive information on upcoming kids events, educator workshops and educational skills they need to succeed, webinars, and receive monthly lesson and modeling positive behavior, accordplans, education resources and parenting ing to a 2016 survey. tips by signing up for WEDU PBS’s “For nearly 60 years, WEDU PBS monthly Kids and Education newsletter. has worked with parents and teachers to
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Page 6
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
An Evening In Mayberry With Rodney Dillard And The Walker Brothers
By Amanda Boston
With its unmistakable whistled theme song and wholesome script, The Andy Griffith Show transports audiences back to a simpler time—to the fictional town of Mayberry, North Carolina. On Sunday, January 7 at 6 p.m., New Hope
The Walker Brothers with Jarrod on the mandolin, Cory on the banjo and Tyler on the guitar.
Dillard will engage the audience with his musical talents and share stories from his experience on the show. The intimate evening will also provide an opportunity for the audience to ask questions. His wife Beverly Cotton-Dillard, a renowned banjo player who often appeared on Hee Haw, will join her husband as they perform well-known bluegrass songs from the show along with gospel music favorites. Although The Andy Griffith Show ended in 1968, the show continues The bluegrass band, The Dillards, began appearing on The Andy Griffith Show in 1963 with the to appeal to new generations reoccurring role as ‘The Darlings,’ a family blue- through its reruns. Dillard expoundgrass band. ed on the show’s parallels to United Methodist Church in Brandon Christianity and its ability to transcend invites you to ‘An Evening In Mayberry,’ time. with cast member Rodney Dillard. Dillard “The show portrayed family values— and his bluegrass band, The Dillards, Christian values, and Andy personified played a reoccurring role as ‘The the fruit of the Spirit, especially with the Darlings,” a backwoods family bluegrass way he treated Opie,” said Dillard. band, on The Andy Griffith Show. “People are trying to find these values in
today’s entertainment world, and they are not. That’s why people are attracted to this show.” Adding to the musical talent are the Walker Brothers, Cory (27), Jarrod (25) and Tyler (21) Walker. The three Durant High graduates will accompany Dillard and are the sons of local residents David and Stacey Walker. In their younger years, The Walker Brothers are remembered for their bluegrass performances at the Strawberry Festival. A few years ago, Dillard hired Cory to play with ‘The Dillards.’ Cory and Jarrod now live in Nashville with burgeoning music careers to include performances with the Grand Ole Opry and CMA Music Festival. The two brothers have also played on national television with bluegrass icons Earl
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Scruggs and Ricky Skaggs. Tyler, the youngest, is a senior at Florida State University and reunites with his brothers to play bluegrass performances in his hometown. The event is free, but a donation box will be onsite. New Hope will open its doors at 5 p.m. with first come first serve seating. The church is located 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. For more information, contact the church at 689-4161 or search ‘The Dillards’ on Facebook. The Walker Brothers will also perform at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s at 812 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Seffner on Friday, February 23 at 7 p.m. For more information, email David Walker at davidloydwalker@gmail.com.
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Are you going to take a cruise for your family vacation? What an exciting time! Being prepared will ensure your family has an enjoyable vacation filled with wonderful memories. There are several tips that will help ensure your vacation is packed with fun. These tips include: 1. Handheld toys – Only take 1-2 of your child’s favorite toys or the stuffed animal they take to bed. They will be very busy with the kids’ camp, the activities on board, swimming and so much more that they will not miss their toys. Additionally, many ships have a lending closet where you can borrow games. 2. Cruise Camp – Enroll your child in this free program. Your child will be grouped with children their age so they are in a smaller group. They are supervised by multiple trained adults. Kids do have to be potty-trained to be in camp, but they start as young as 3-17. 3. The Daily Cruise Paper – There are so many things to explore on a cruise ship. There are numerous planned activities to take advantage of such as karaoke, breakfast with characters, family science experience, movies and more outside of kids’ camp. Stay tuned to the daily newspaper every night so you can plan each day together. “When I meet with my clients prior to sailing, I also let them know about any particulars for that cruise line such as family-time dining,” said Jenifer Breaux, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in Lithia. “This is an option that families have when cruising. It is a wonderful combination of families eating together for part of the meal and after the kids are picked up for camp, the parents finish the rest of the meal together.” 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.
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December 2017
Page 7
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Campo Family YMCA Held Its Second Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration
By Tatiana Ortiz
The flags of 23 supplied numerous various countries pool floats and more. such as Puerto In addition, a Rico, Venezuela new eight-week proand Argentina just gram began over the to name a few did summer at Campo get raised inside the Family YMCA called Spanish for Kids. gymnasium at The program teachCampo Family es youth ages six to YMCA in Valrico to eight how to read commemorate the songs in Spanish, Second Annual learn various Hispanic Heritage dances, pronouns, event. More than Spanish for Kids students featuring Zue colors and much 200 individuals Simpson (on the left with white hat) and Alex Ambrosio (on the right with more. The students attended, which striped shirt). in Spanish for Kids consisted of memconducted two dance performances durbers and non-members. This celebration ing the Hispanic Heritage event. brought people together as they “Students also learn empowerment exchanged smiles, danced or consumed in a sense that they too can do it when foods. learning Spanish,” said Zue Simpson, A focus group called Hispanos Spanish for Kids instructor at Campo Unidos at Campo Family YMCA develFamily YMCA. oped the idea for the event. In March The next class with Spanish for Kids 2016, Hispanos Unidos became estabwill meet on February 7, 2018, from 3:30lished by the Hispanic members at 4:30 p.m. Visit the Facebook page Campo Family YMCA. The Hispanos Unidos group strives to connect the com- www.facebook.com/OK2BWise/ to learn more. munity through the Spanish language “Overall, such a wonderful opportuniand its culture. ty for the Hispanos Unidos as an organi“With being so diverse, we do not zation to embrace the needs in the entire discriminate against any countries,” said community,” said Rob Gray, Vice Veronica Hernandez, Coordinator of President of Operations at YMCA. Hispanos Unidos at Campo Family For more information, visit www.tamYMCA. paymca.org/locations/campo/. It is located Furthermore, Hernandez shared that at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. Open this event had 35 business sponsors. Monday through Friday 5 a.m.- 10 p.m., These businesses either donated food, Saturday 7 a.m.- 7 p.m. and Sunday 12 water, prizes or money towards it. For p.m.- 6 p.m. Call 684-1371. example, Pinch a Penny Pool Patio Spa
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Page 8
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
AJ’s Fine Wines To Host Exclusive Holiday Gift Engraving Event
By Amy Schechter
If you Starting at have not only $30, swung by these make AJ’s Fine perfect keepWines in sake gifts for Lithia, you any special are missing occasion, out not only holiday or on a great business gift. selection, AJ’s but you are Fine Wines also missing also boasts a the friendwalk in humiliest neighdor on site, borhood and this year wine, liquor, Sindicato Ajay Jambhekar, owner, with custom engraved bottle of Gentleman Jack. and cigar Cigars will store in the area. Many Friday’s from 6-9 be present at the engraving event reprep.m., adults 21 and older can come by for sented by Gene Tipton who has nearly a different tasting each week, as the store fifty years of education and experience in boasts a bar and patio perfect for socializ- the cigar industry. Jambhekar urges local ing. To find out about the events, visit AJ's professionals and community members Fine Wine & Liquors on Facebook. to come for this special engraving, tastAjay Jambhekar, the owner whose ing, and cigar experience on December background is in accounting, relates his 20 from 6-9 p.m. where they can thoughts on why it is so important to bring exchange business cards, meet neighthe community together: “My objective is bors, and pick up their personalized botit that it is not about me; it’s about we. I tles. Rosati’s Chicago Pizza will also probelieve in supporting small businesses,” vide light hor d'oeuvres throughout the and he hopes these opportunities open evening. up an avenue for networking between In addition to its wide selection of professionals. wines, cigars, and spirits, AJ’s offers a From events like these, Jambhekar is wide craft beer selection, gluten free proud to offer a special engraving event options, organic beer, and a variety of compliments of Jack Daniels just in time your favorites. For information, contact for the holidays. Accepting pre-orders Jambhekar at 643-6488 between 10 a.m. now, customers can have a personalized and 10 p.m. message engraved on 750 & 150 bottles AJ’s Fine Wines is located in the of Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniels Single Publix Plaza at 3443 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Barrel, or Woodford Reserve Bourbon. in Valrico.
Volume 16, Issue 12
December 2017
Page 9
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Fixer Upper’s Chip & Joanna Gaines Sponsor Valrico Woman To Climb To New Heights With Her Non Profit Dreams
Coinciding with the release of his new book Capital Gaines, Chip Gaines from HGTV’s Fixer Upper launched his ChipStarter contest. The contest invited others with big dreams to pitch their ideas through a two-minute video with the hopes of receiving financial backing. Chip and his wife Joanna star on a reality television show in Waco, Texas where they take the worst house on the block and transform it into something beautiful. The two have been transparent about their faith in God and continuously acknowledge God for their success. Likewise, the couple has not forgotten those who came alongside them financially and invested in their dream. From this posture of gratitude, Chip and Joanna conceived the ChipStarter contest as a way to give back by making someone else’s dream a reality. After reviewing more than 2,700 video submissions, the couple selected six finalists and flew them to the Lone Star State for the big reveal. Alexis Vazquez, a Bloomingdale High School graduate, was one of the six finalists. Since a sophomore in high school, Vasquez has owned her own photography business. The 24-year-old is a visual storyteller who creates narratives through use of photography. Vazquez’s love for God and her craft have led her to trot around the globe as a missionary serving others and chronicling their stories of faith. For the past four years, Vasquez has volunteered as a photographer for
the Tim Tebow’s conquer their Celebrity Gala own mounand Golf Classic tains," in Jacksonville. remarked Through her Vasquez. service with the Vasquez Tim Tebow continued, “I Foundation, have this goal Vasquez witof raising nessed $25,000 for the metaphorical foundation, and mountains move my mentality Fixer Upper’s Chip and Joanna Gaines present through faith in was to go big or Alexis Vasquez a $14,000 check to support her Jesus Christ. stay home. I endeavor to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. “I got a kick wanted to do in the gut from the Holy something Spirit,” said that I knew Vasquez. “I felt only God that I was to take could do.” everything I With litlearned about tle momenmountains spiritutum in sponally and apply it sorship, physically. So I Vasquez decided that I asked God to would climb a show up big. mountain while He did. fundraising Through a $25,000 for the subscriber Tim Tebow email from the Foundation.” Fixer Upper Vasquez show, she disaspires to ascend covered the Mount Kilimanjaro, ChipStarter Alexis and Tim: Every March, Alexis Vasquez the highest freecontest. The serves as a volunteer photographer at Tim Tebow’s standing mountain email detailed Celebrity Gala and Golf Classic in Jacksonville. in the world. the contest “People run marathons for chariand in it had one phrase, which immeties, so I thought why not climb a diately caught her attention. The email mountain. I hope to inspire others to asked, "Want to climb a mountain?"
By Amanda Boston
Vasquez viewed this as a sign from God and submitted her video. On October 10, Vasquez received word that she was a finalist. Chip and Joanna flew Vasquez along with the other finalists to Waco to pitch their dreams. Instead of one winner, all six finalists went home as winners. Vasquez was awarded $14,000 to assist with expenses related to the climb and jumpstart her fundraising campaign for the Tim Tebow Foundation. The ChipStarter winnings will be more than enough to cover her climbing expenses. “It was so surreal while at the same time, it felt so natural. The way they are portrayed on TV with Chip as the goofy one and Joanna as a little more reserved is exactly how they are in reality. They were amazing in person and so encouraging," said Vasquez. Vasquez would like to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in February 2018 but still needs to achieve her goal of $25,000 for Tim Tebow Foundation. To donate, visit Vasquez’s Ascent to Mount Kilimanjaro’s donation page at https://community.timtebowfoundation.org/fundraise/team?ftid=112303. All donations go directly to the Tim Tebow Foundation’s outreach initiatives. For more information on the Tim Tebow Foundation, visit www.timtebowfoundation.org. To learn more about Vasquez’s endeavor, visit www.alexismarie-photography.com/ or on Instagram at alexismariephoto.
Page 10
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Cirque du Soleil Announces New Touring Show Under The Big Top, VOLTA
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Cirque du Soleil is thrilled to freedom as a movement. announce a new production that will preWAZ, a popular game show host, miere Wednesday, February 14, 2018 has lost touch with his inner self in the and running through Sunday, March 4 at pursuit of fame, pulling others in the trap the Tampa Greyhound Track. of instant glory. But as doubt sets in, WAZ Cirque du Soleil VOLTATM, written and directed by Bastien Alexandre and with Jean Guibert as Photo by Patrice Lamoureux Tickets are now on sale for Cirque du Soleil the director of creis enlightVOLTATM premiering on February 14, 2018 in the ation. International ened by Big Top at the Tampa Greyhound Track. electronic group M83 childhood as composer and musical director brings memories as he encounters ‘free spirits’ who open doors to his inner soul he has his space-age future pop sound to the long kept shut. On his high-voltage Cirque du Soleil stage for the first time search for meaning, will WAZ find the ever. The show will be presented under courage to relinquish his fame, reconnect the Big Top at the Tampa Greyhound with his true self, and shine bright? Track. The name VOLTA refers to a sudVOLTA is Cirque du Soleil’s 41st origden about-face, a change in emotion or inal production since 1984, and its idea often used in poetry. It also speaks 18th show presented under the Big Top. to the jolt of energy delivered through the The company has brought wonder and show. delight to more than 160 million spectaVOLTA tells a spellbinding story about the freedom to choose and the thrill tors in more than 400 cities on six continents. Cirque du Soleil has close to 4,000 of blazing your own trail. Inspired in part employees, including 1,300 performing by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of action sports, the show weaves artists from close to 50 different countries. The Tampa Greyhound track is locatthe adrenaline rush of acrobatics into a ed at 8300 N. Nebraska Ave. Tickets are visually striking world driven by a stirring melodic score. available to purchase now by VOLTA is a story of transformation. It visiting cirquedusoleil.com/volta or calling is about being true to oneself, fulfilling 1-877-924-7783. Tickets are available one’s true potential, and the power of the starting from $37. Visit on Facebook at group to make that possible. It celebrates Facebook.com/VOLTA.
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Page 11
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Randall Student & Survivor Herself Helps Pediatric Cancer Patients Thirteen-year-old Natalie Santiago knows what it is like to undergo treatment for cancer and the Randal Middle School student is now doing what she can to help other children fighting the disease. This month she is collecting cozy socks, mints and comfortable pillow cases to donate to pediatric cancer patients in hospitals and treatment centers throughout the area. According to Santiago, she got the idea for the drive after finishing her treatment for Lymphoma when she noticed that certain items made her hospital stays and chemo treatments easier. “The socks are warm and comforting in the hospital, the mints help with nausea and bad tastes during chemo and the pillowcases brighten up the room,” said Santiago who explained that hospital workers change patient’s pillow cases every day and they don’t always have enough bright and colorful ones for each child. This is the second year Santiago has held the drive. Items can be dropped at
By Kate Quesada
both Randall Middle and Colleen Bevis Elementary schools in Lithia and Santiago plans to distribute them to Tampa’s OneVoice, John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital and the Children Cancer Center of Tampa. “They know the best way to distribute the items to patients who need them,” said Santiago who Randall Middle plans to be a genetiSchool student Natalie Santiago is cist or radiologist collected new when she grows up. socks and pillow So far, Santiago cases and mints for pediatric can- has had a good cer patients. response to the drive which she has advertised at Randall through posters, emails and with announcements on the school radio show. However, more donations are always needed and she has even bigger goals. “My main purpose is to create awareness about pediatric cancer,” she explained. “I noticed that not a lot of people know that from the budget designated for cancer research just four percent goes to Pediatric Cancer research and I think that should definitely be more.” For information, contact Randall Middle School at 740-3900. Items can be dropped at school, located at 16510 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia.
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Page 12
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Alafia Driving Academy Helps Makes New Drivers Road Safe & Test Ready
By Marie Gilmore
Can you remember your first car? Mine was a 1981 Ford LTD with two doors and automatic steering. It was easy to park… just find the furthest spot in the parking lot, far away from other cars because when those doors opened, they needed space. Fast forward to our local community with hundreds of teens graduating from Learner’s Permit to Driver’s Alafia Driving Academy owner License on a daily basis. Cole Nesmith Driver’s Ed is an option if poses with available but offers limited FishHawk student Cross Gilmore ‘real world’ driving opportuniwho earned his license after completing lessons. ties. To fill the gap, a private company such as Alafia Driving Academy is working with new drivers and breaking them out of their shells,” adds Nesmith with its own vehicles, its own instructors who grew up in Hawaii and is an Air and an actual curriculum that doesn’t Force Veteran. “A lot of kids are really include the words ‘mom’ or ‘dad’ are a withdrawn and giving them the freedom great option and peace of mind for parto get out and drive really opens up their ents of those new drivers. world.” And, as Alafia Driving Academy Brand new drivers typically need anyowner Cole Nesmith will tell you, although where between five to eight lessons to they have a superb curriculum to follow for new drivers, that only makes up half of complete the training. The student is picked up and dropped off from home his business. The other half range in age and lessons are typically 45 minutes to from 24-74 years old and are also need one hour each. Alafia Driving Academy the reinforcement for merging, parking, provides the vehicle equipped with an collision avoidance, Interstate driving, instructor brake and state-of-the-art safety hard braking and staying safe on the features. Vehicles in the fleet include new roadways. Mazda CX-5 SUV’s. “We’ve had more than eleven hunIn addition, Alafia has a stick shift dred local students through our school,” said Nesmith, “This represents more than vehicle available for training and offers a DMV prep. In fact, for an extra fee, an 4,500 hours on the road.” Alafia instructor will escort the student to Alafia Driving Academy was launched four years ago after Nesmith left the DMV for the test. Alafia Driving Academy is a Valricothe IT market in order to go into business based business and is celebrating four for himself. These skills are evident in the professionalism of the company. Lessons years in business. Currently, it has five are scheduled online and the student and instructors, including two Veterans, offering lessons throughout the bay area. parent receive email and text reminders Visit www.alafiadrivingacademy.com f of the upcoming appointment. After the or scheduling and full information. lesson, a synopsis complete with lesson plan, map of routes driven and list of skills Email info@AlafiaDrivingAcademy.com or call 438-9712. Lessons are offered seven learned is shared.” “What I love best about this business days per week up to 9 p.m.
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December 2017
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 13
Page 14
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
Ducks Unlimited Raises Over $25,000 For Wetlands Habitat And Preservation
Staff Report
Following a monththis year’s event extra long delay caused by special: Dillon and Cody Hurricane Irma, the Glisson and G5 Feed and East Hillsborough Outdoor, Jim Scott and Ducks Unlimited Jarrett Scott Ford, (EHDU) chapter of Clayton Jenkins and Hillsborough County Clayton Jenkins hosted its 31st annual Construction, Jake Dinner and Auction on Caliguire and Central Site October 12 at the Plant Development, Tony City Armory. In attenHanshaw and Mosaic, dance were over 225 Curry Law Group, Jarrod area conservationists, Farmer and CURS Credit family members, and Union, Rodger Rivard friends, all of whom and Rivard Buick and Joseph Layrisson and Evan Smith were instrumental in the Jared Delancy and GMC, are presented with their 2017 raising of over $25,000 Everglades John Deere, Volunteer of the Year Awards. for wetlands habitat and Rachel Layrisson was not present ean Sims and Sims as she is attending Florida State. preservation. Accepting her award is her and Crane and Equipment, Highlighted at this Joseph’s father Michael who was Jerry Jaeger and Hy-Tech instrumental in supporting their Petroleum, Mark McRae year’s event were three conservation efforts. local Newsome High and Farm Credit, Brian School students who were presented with Goodhead and PPSI, Jeff Brewer and the 2017 East Hillsborough Ducks Patriot Arms. Unlimited 2017 Volunteer of the Year Ducks Unlimited would also like to Award for their grassroots support to con- thank the following major donors for their servation and habitat preservation. contributions: Perry Electric, Minto Rachel Layrisson, Joseph Layrisson and Communities, Brenda Wade Realty, JC Evan Smith were all presented with Taxidermy, Pepin Distributors, Randy engraved awards for their individual dedi- Matthews Photography’ Spent Round cation of over 100 hours of community Designs, Bass Pro Shop, and Floors by service. Their volunteerism resulted in the Joe. A special thank you goes to the raising of conservation awareness and Florida National Guard, the 3rd of the funds for over 50 acres of land preserved! 116th Field Artillery unit and MSG Brown Evan, Joseph, and Rachel are the and the Plant City Police Department. youngest EHDU chapter committee For information, contact Wayne members ever to receive the Volunteer of Tasler at 727-743-8810 or the Year award. wayne.tasler@gmail.com or follow on A special thank you goes out to all Facebook at East Hillsborough Ducks the Corporate Table sponsors who made Unlimited Chapter.
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December 2017
Page 15
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Randall Teacher/The Coal Elf Author Sparks Student’s Love Of Writing
By Shayne Bernstein, 7th Grader, Randall MS
The Coal Elf? A - I was teaching at a Catholic school in New York. Because I am such a weirdo, I wore a black velvet dress and black velvet Santa hat with silver jewelry and people were looking at me like I was a nut – which I still am. The kids would come up to me and say Ms. DeVivo- you look like a bad elf. You look so evil. And I was like yeah – Randall Middle School teacher Maria DeVivo talks to 7th you’re all getting coal in grade student Shayne Bernstein at Cool Beans Coffee your stocking. I’m coming Shop in Park Square about her The Coal Elf series of to your house and putting books available on Amazon. coal in your stocking and I have had a few teachers that from that it clicked in my head – if have made a real positive impact on you are bad you get coal in your my life. Mrs. Maria DeVivo, my 7th stocking but who brings that coal? grade English/Language arts teacher, Who mines it? My kids inspired me to is one such teacher. She not only write this book. made transitioning to a new class Q - What would you tell someone mid–year easier, but she has inspired that wanted to start out writing? me to consider pursuing writing. She A - Have a plan. Know what you has also made me feel comfortable want to write about. Read the genre with being who I am as a person and you want to write about so you have reassured me that I don’t have to an understanding of the market and sacrifice who I am just to fit in. the ways they are presenting materiI had the pleasure of sitting with al. Books from 50 years ago will be Mrs. DeVivo and ask her some quesvery different from books you read tions about becoming a successful from five years ago. Read the genre, author. get a sense of style but find your own Q - Who inspired you to write? voice. A - My Dad. He read to me as a Q - How does one start a series kid. Newspapers, mags, then made not just one book? What tips would up fairy tales. Stories about bears like you give somebody? Goldilocks. I loved that my dad was A - Know your facts. Writing a making up stories and I wanted to do series is super hard because you the same thing. have to make sure there aren’t any Q - How old were you when you continuity errors. If a character has a decided to start writing? short hair the hair can get longer and A – I knew I wanted to be a writer that is something the audience will in 7th grade, when I read The pay attention to but if the character in Outsiders. I knew that this is what I the first story doesn’t smoke and then wanted to do eventually. I wanted to all of a sudden they smoke – you one day walk into a book store, point know you have to pay attention to to a shelf and say ’ha ha!’ I wrote continuity. After I wrote the book I crethat. When I was a little kid I loved to ated a cheat sheet – I would have write and wrote all the time but it was- characters, setting, important dates n’t until 7th grade that I knew I wantand plot points. I’m bad with passage ed to do this professionally. of time. It’s hard. Writing the second Q - When was the first book of book was hard and writing the third The Coal Elf series published? book was hard with continuity. A - The book was written in 2010 I learned a lot from sitting with and published in 2012. The whole Mrs. DeVivo that day. I even had the publishing process takes about a year pleasure of hearing her speak at the once singed with Publishing house. Tampa Bay Comic Con. I highly recSecond book in 2015 and the last ommend reading the The Coal Elf book came out this year. series, which can be found on Q - Why did you call the books Amazon.
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Page 16
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
Everyone Welcome As Walk Thru Bethlehem Offers Interactive Event For 31 Years
By Amanda Boston
Kings Avenue Baptist bands and musical acts. Church of Brandon invites Hoyt also mentioned that you and your family to travel new kinds of entertainment back in time to Bethlehem are being introduced to and experience the true this year’s lineup. meaning of Christmas. Its With a production of annual Walk Thru Bethlehem this magnitude and the event takes place nightly weightiness of its mesfrom Thursday, December 7 sage, Hoyt has asked for to Sunday, December 10. monetary donations from For 31 years, Walk Thru area businesses to keep Bethlehem, an interactive the event going. Those town of 20,000 square feet, is who wish to donate can do brought to life with a volunso at the event or online teer cast of actors and anithrough ‘easy tithe’ at mals. The town’s realistic www.kingsavenue.org. backdrop transports its visiFor the first time, Kings tors to the little town of Avenue is reaching out to Bethlehem where actors the community for additiondramatize the story leading al volunteers. On up to the birth of Jesus Christ. November 4, the commitThe 30-minute journey tee held ‘Bethlehem immerses you into the throes University’ to train new of Jewish life—captivating the recruits. For those who five senses and stirring the missed the training, opportuheart. From the shouts of nities to volunteer are still angry Roman guards to the available. tender moment with baby Walk Thru Bethlehem is Jesus, visitors will feel what it a free family event and is was like on the night of His scheduled for December 7 birth. The journey concludes from 6:30-9:30 p.m.; As visitors Walk Thru Bethlehem, the vendors interact with them to provide a realistic atmosphere of a Jewish town. with proclamation of the good December 8 from 6:30-10 Walk Thru Bethlehem is a gift to community that is completely volunteer-based and reliant on donations. news as it depicts Christ’s p.m.; December 9 from 4-10 The brand-new ‘Walk Thru tion drawing in more than 6,000 people death and resurrection. p.m.; and December 10 from 4-9 p.m. Bethlehem’ app keeps you informed of over the four-day span. On arrival, visitors “We have been working for several The church is located at 2602 S. your place in line, but you must first are given a number designating a guide months to create an environment that will Kings Ave. in Brandon. To volunteer, conregister at the event. The app is availand an appointed tour time. show our community the greatest gift that tact Tracy Hoyt at able for both Android and Apple Due to its popularity, Hoyt noted, “We God has given to each of us in the birth of have long lines so visitors should arrive WTB2017KABC@gmail.com or the devices. His son,” said Committee Chairperson If you wish to wait on the premises, church at 685-3095. For more informaearly, but we have an app that allows Tracy Hoyt. tion, visit Facebook at Walk Thru Christmas carols will resonate throughthem to get a number and come back Walk Thru Bethlehem is a local tradiBethlehem. out the sanctuary from local school later with their entire group.”
December 2017
A Charlie Brown Christmas Live! On Stage Comes To Lakeland RP Funding Center Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the Peanuts gang uncover the true meaning of Christmas in A Charlie Brown Christmas Live! On Stage at the RP Funding Center on Wednesday, December 20 at 7 p.m. A Charlie Brown Christmas Live! On Stage is a fresh take on the timeless classic that gives the audience a completely new way of experiencing the storyline as portrayed by actors who maintain the integrity and spirit of each Peanuts character. This Emmy and Peabody award-winning story by Charles M. Schulz has been a longstanding tradition, warming the hearts of millions of fans since it first aired on television over 50 years ago. Now, this live on stage adaptation of the classic animated television special brings all your favorite characters to life - all set to the unforgettable sounds of the Vince Guaraldi musical score.
Tasty Venues Brings European Flare To Brandon With Cafe, Culinary Tastings & Tours
By Tatiana Ortiz
By Jason Refermat
Traveling to European or brunch for $15 per person countries such as Italy, from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Brunch France and Spain might also gets served on Sunday’s seem costly to some. By visfor the same price and time. iting Tasty Venues in To add, individuals can Brandon one does not need enjoy a Culinary Exploration to come with a passport in Class with Chef Cripe on hand, but instead with an Thursday’s and Friday’s at 6 empty stomach to be filled p.m. The cost varies based on the menu and style of with an authentic European class. Visit www.mytastyvcuisine. Individuals can also discover various cookbooks, enues.com to register. specialty foods and more Individuals can also experifrom Europe. ence dinner with the chef on Tasty Venues Saturday’s at 6 p.m. brought a unique conOn the first Sunday of cept of a café and gift the month people can shop to the Brandon attend a traditional area when it opened in Italian dinner, which May of this year. A chef starts at 2 p.m. Or in England inspired even take a culinary tour in Italy. Tasty Venues Executive One of the owners Chef Cinzia Cripe to from Tasty Venues create something simishared her thoughts. lar. Chef Cripe thought the Brandon community “Overall, we feel needed a place where very passionate about Executive Chef Cinzia Cripe from individuals could Tasty Venues holds a berry tart that bringing the community she made. explore the world together through food,” through food. She moved to Brandon Debora Felton said. several years ago from North Dakota, but Join Sicilian Chef Giorgio Ruggeri originally came from Sorrento, Italy. from November 29- December 2 as he Furthermore, it offers lunch Monday teaches guests how to prepare authentic through Friday from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tasty Italian dishes. Venues does not utilize a set menu. It is located at 951 E. Brandon Blvd. Check out its Facebook page www.facein Brandon. Open Monday through book.com/TastyVenues/ to learn more Wednesday 11 a.m.- 7 p.m., Thursday through Friday 11 a.m.- 8:30 p.m., about the daily lunch menu. Individuals Saturday 11 a.m.- 8:30 p.m. and Sunday can dine in or order to-go. Every other 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Call 381-4999. Saturday people can come for British tea
A Charlie Brown Christmas Live! On Stage encompasses each of your favorite scenes from the original animated television show. It even expands the storyline into greater detail with more fun, more music, more finding the true Christmas spirit exploding into a celebration of song as the audience is invited to join the Peanuts gang in singing Christmas favorites. Ticket prices are $42 and $31 (other fees may apply) and are available by visiting the RP Funding Center Box Office, tollfree 888397-0100, and online at www.rpfundingcenter.com. The RP Funding Center is located in Lakeland, off I-4 on Lime Street. The RP Funding Center is a short drive from anywhere in Central Florida. Regular box office hours are Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. For ticket information, call the Box Office at (863) 834-8111 or visit www.rpfundingcenter.com.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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Page 18
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
By Tamas Mondovics
HCSO Cracks Down On Construction Fraud After Hurricane Irma
By Tamas Mondovics
The result ed throughout of a threeHillsborough month long County. criminal investiDetectives gation conductgathered ed by the information Hillsborough from multiple County open sources Sheriff’s Office regularly used Construction by homeownFraud Unit tarers to contact geting unlicontractors censed conand "handy tractors followman" services Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister talks to ing Hurricane including the media about the results a three-month long criminal investigation involving unlicensed contractors and Angie's List, Irma was targeting area residents. revealed during Home Adviser, a press conference earlier this month. Facebook, Craig's List, and various The Unit was created to proactively citizen complaints. investigate issues related to unlicensed HCSO located and contacted 310 contracting in violation of Florida Statute potential unlicensed contractors, 114 489 and Hillsborough County Ordinance of which returned calls for quotes and 15-14. met with the detectives. Of those, 73 HCSO Sheriff Chad Chronister criminal cases were filed for fraud emphasized that the results of "Operation and unlicensed contracting, totaling Rebuild” and "Operation Swift Wind,” nearly $2 million. revealed good news and bad news for Therefore, the potential economic area residents. impact to Hillsborough County home“The good news is that we were able owners and legitimate contractors identify and stop a large number of conwould be in excess of four million doltractors who were unlicensed targeting lars. the most vulnerable,” Chronister said. Detectives also initiated “But, the investigation also shows that "Operation Swift Wind," which targetthere are a lot of people in the community ed unlicensed contractors conducting who want to take advantage of homebusiness during a state of emergency, owners in their time of need.” which was declared on September 4, Chronister explained that unlicensed 2017, by Governor Scott in response contractors can be appealing to conto the threats posed by Hurricane sumers as they can offer services at a Irma. lesser cost. In an abbreviated operation last“The unlicensed contractor is not reg- ing for three days in late October, unit ulated, their work and the materials used detectives contacted ten potential may be substandard, they provide no unlicensed contractors, resulting in warranty, and the work is done without five arrests for felony charges. the required permits and inspections,” he Chronister urged residents to said. “These scenarios can cause costly beware of door to door sales or interrepairs, code violations, and other liabilinet offers for home improvement ties.” which seem too good of a deal; conBetween June 2017 and August tractors who ask for large sums of 2017, unit detectives initiated "Operation money up front, especially cash; a Rebuild" to identify unlicensed contractors contractor who asks you the homeby employing an extended covert investiowner to obtain your own building gation. permit or that the work can be done Partnered with the State Attorney's without one, and a contractor who will Office, Florida Department of Business not show you his contractor's license and Professional Regulation, Florida and insurance documents upon Department of Financial Services, and demand. the Hillsborough County Building For more information, please visit Department, investigations were conduct- www.hcso.tampa.fl.us.
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Volume 16, Issue 12
Brandon Christian Church Hosts 10th Annual Craft Bazaar This December
By Kathy L. Collins
Christmas music performed by Simply Strings from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. There will also be bake sale items including cookies, breads and more. Lunch items will include hot dogs, BBQ, chips and drinks (water, soda and coffee). The 10th Annual Craft Bazaar is free to attend and there is no cost to park. Participating vendors receive their booth space, The Brandon Christian Church will hold its 10th Annual Craft Bazaar on Saturday, December 2. assistance setting up, free coffee during set up time and Brandon Christian Church, located at computer files with advertising materials. 910 Bryan Rd. in Brandon, is hosting its There will be vendors located both inside 10th Annual Craft Bazaar on Saturday, the church and outside on the lovely December 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This grounds of Brandon Christian Church. event features only hand-crafted items. This is a fundraiser for the church. There are no commercially produced Dawson explained, “Funds raised are products. used to support our church building. Part Betty Dawson is the Coordinator of of the mission of our church is to provide the Annual Craft Bazaar. Dawson said, space for a variety of groups in our com"We have chosen to feature only handmunity to have a meeting space. The crafted items and do not accept commergroups include Boy Scouts and support cial products. We feel this provides shopand recovery groups. There are over 30 pers with a truly unique shopping experigroups that use our church. In addition, ence and an opportunity to find one-of-a other congregations meet in our facilities.” kind items for themselves or as gifts.” Brandon Christian Church also Dawson added, “The variety of items actively supports the community through that will be featured by our vendors is participation in Meals on Wheels. Since quite varied. We will have jewelry, cro2002, church members have prepared cheted baby items and accessories, meals for 30 to 40 clients each week. Christmas ornaments and decorations, Brandon Christian Church is also an wood and acrylic pens, beef and bacon active supporter of Family Promise. jerky, pet accessories, cigar box purses, Please visit www.brandonchrisbees wax cosmetics, soap and much tianchurch.org or call Dawson at 404more.” 9393 or email bazaar@dawsoncrew.com. This year, attendees can listen to
December 2017
Page 19
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Riverview Chef Brings Combat And TV Experience To Bloomingdale High
Dr. Amir Boules
By Kate Quesada
Riverview resident Marquis’ road to Rene Marquis believes teaching at he has one of the most Bloomingdale took him important jobs at to the Culinary Institute Bloomingdale High of America and the School. United States Army “As the lead culiwhere he served as a nary instructor, I teach chef and also competstudents how to take ed in both the Culinary care of themselves World Cup and the and others,” said Culinary Olympics Marquis. “This is withthree times each. out a doubt one of the However, his biggest most important jobs in claim to fame may be the school.” the fact that he won Marquis, who has season one, episode been teaching at seven of the Food Bloomingdale High Network television School for a year, show Cutthroat Kitchen Riverview resident Rene Marquis, takes his job very seri- teaches culinary arts at Bloomingdale in 2013. High School. ously. There are cur“I am very competrently 400 students in itive,” said Marquis, the school’s culinary program, which is who has lived in the Riverview area since part of the career and technical departhe retired from Mac Dill Air Force Base ment, and a waiting list of more who 10 years ago. “All of things I have done in would like to get in. Many of the students my past have led me here though.” go on to work in the industry, including Students in the Bloomingdale pro2008 graduate Wesley Roderick who is gram, which is one of more than a dozen now an executive chef at South Tampa’s in the county, earn industry certification On Swann. Current senior in the prowith the National ProStart Certificate of gram, Gigi Rivera was last year’s winner Achievement as a Certified Professional of the Fresh From Florida Student CookFood Manager from ServSafe. The proOff against students from all over the gram started at school in 2014. Under state and two teams from the school took Marquis’ direction, the students grow their first and second place in this year’s own vegetables and herbs in an outdoor regional contest with the top team moving garden and also cook meals that can be on to this year’s finals in January. purchased by school staff every day. “We are giving our students skills For more information on they will use in life in so many ways,” said Bloomingdale High School’s Culinary Marquis. Department, call the school at 744-8018.
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Page 20
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
TECO Manatee Viewing Center Celebrates Awareness Month, Opens For 31st Season to learn and enjoy. Each year, the 50acre Manatee Viewing Center draws an average of 275,000 visitors – including about 10,000 schoolchildren. In a recent article posted on the centers Facebook page Stan Kroh, manager of Land and Stewardship Programs for Tampa Photo Courtesy of Electric was quoted to say, TECO “We’re proud to be the Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center is now open until mid-April. showcase for Tampa Electric’s commitment to Tampa Electric’s (TECO) award-winenvironmental stewardship.” ning Manatee Viewing Center has When the temperature of Tampa Bay opened its doors for its 31st season this dips to or below 68 degrees the center is month. perfect for the gentle giants as they gathConsidering that November is also er in the clean, warm water discharge Manatee Awareness Month the timing of canal of TECO’s Big Bend Power Station. the event each year is by no means coinVisitors can see the mammals— cidence. sometimes by the hundreds—up close According to TECO officials the cenfrom multiple boardwalks and vantage ter has welcomed more than 5 million vispoints. Of course, there is more to just itors since 1986 and with some recent viewing the manatees, which leads to the new additions there is plenty for all ages
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said Patrick Rose, Executive Director of Save the Manatee Club in a recent release. “The public should learn about their plight, and how protecting them is in all our best interests. We should understand our role as responsible stewards of manatees and their habitat, and how it can be beneficial to those things we hold dear.” The Manatee Viewing Center’s regular hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day from November 1 through April 15. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Parking and admission are free. For info, visit www.tampaelectric.com/manatee or call 813-228-4289 or savethemanatee.org.
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Page 21
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Riverview Silver Ring Holds Fundraiser For Local Teen Needing Double Lung Transplant
By Kate Quesada
An old favorite her six siblings. Riverview restauShe also has to rant is helping a share mom and local family this dad between two month. The Silver states to make this Ring Cafe, famous transplant possifor its pressed ble.” Cuban sandwiches Silver Ring owner Dana and friendly servNeville is planning ice, is hosting a to open the restaufundraiser on rant, which is usuSunday, December ally closed on 10 to benefit 13Sundays, and will year-old Riverview donate all proresident Noelia Whitlock who is Riverview resident Noelia Whitman is wait- ceeds to Noelia and her family. need of a double ing for a double lung transplant and a fundraiser will take place for her at the There will also be lung transplant to Silver Ring Cafe on December 10. baked goods for help her fight her sale. battle with Cystic Fibrosis. “Because I have watched the love Noelia, who is one of five medically needy children in her family, is and care this family has showered currently in St. Louis at the Ronald their children with, I feel compelled to McDonald apartments waiting for the do something and I am asking for transplant with her father, while her your support,” said Neville who chose mother is home with her siblings. She the December 10, date for the was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at fundraiser because there is a Tampa two years old and was adopted by Bay Buccaneers home football game her family three years later. In that day and she is hoping to attract September she was listed for a doucustomers heading to tailgate. ble lung transplant with St. Louis Supplies for the fundraiser have Children’s Hospital and is undergoing been donated by Four Star Meats, La rounds of IV antibiotics every two Segunda Central Bakery and Captain weeks. Ed’s. For more information, search for “She always has a smile on her Noelia’s Warriors Fighting Cystic face, even on the toughest days,” Fibrosis on Facebook. The Silver said her mother, Sheri Whitlock who Ring Cafe is located at 7419 U.S. explains that Noelia is finishing up Hwy 301 in Riverview and can be seventh grade through Florida Virtual reached at 677-1487. Noelia also has Schools, an online homeschooling a Go Fund Me page located at program. “It’s hard to be away from www.gofundme.com/noeliaswarriors.
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Page 22
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Local Bakers Offer Holiday Cookie Works Of Art For Shop Local Gift With the holidays approaching and many occasions calling for sweet treats, these local entrepreneurs take cookie making to the next level creating custom works of art that taste great too.
The Butter Tree
your own dozen cookies,” said Williams. “We work on several together and decorate each cookie in sections. Everyone leaves with beautifully decorated cookies they made themselves.” The group is limited to 10 people and classes range from one-and-ahalf to two hours. In addition to regular adult classes, Williams also offers kids’ classes at Cool Beans and has a “Cookies for Santa” class planned this month. Search The Sugared Owl on Facebook, for more information, or contact Williams by emailing at jkwilliams78@hotmail.com.
By Kate Quesada
make cookies for the party. They were such a success that she decided to turn her hobby into a business and 2 Little Sweets was born. “After months of practicing at night while my girls slept, so I wouldn’t be chasing them and baking, I began posting my creations on social media,” said Escobar. “Friends and neighbors began showing interest in the cookies and asked if I would sell them. Escobar’s cookies are custom orders to any design, color or size. “It is a labor of love,” she said, noting that each cookie is hand decorated and freshly baked. “It is a consuming and long process with cookie dough, icing, mixing, baking, decorating and packing.” 2 Little Sweets requests a minimum order of a dozen cookies, but can make any number higher than 12. “All the decorated cookies are custom and because they are custom, you won’t find my cookies to look, taste or feel like the cookies you would find at the supermarket,” said Escobar, who especially enjoys when her customers send her pictures of them enjoying her products. For more information, contact Escobar at cookiesby2littlesweets@yahoo.com or search 2 Little Sweets on Facebook.
FishHawk resident Erin Cowan Custom cookies baked and decorated by Erin Cowan of The Butter Tree. owns and operates The Butter Tree, specializing in custom decorated sugar cookies for any occasion from birthday parties to weddings and showers. Cowan, a former lawyer who practiced in New York City 2 Little Sweets before moving to Florida, started the When FishHawk resbusiness to keep ident Paula Escobar’s busy while staying youngest daughter home with her chilturned one four years Kerry Williams of The Sugared Owl creates custom cookies based on customer dren. ago, she decided to requests. “I got started after late sugar cookrandomly coming across a blog post ies for the holiabout decorated sugar cookies in days. All cookies 2001,” said Cowan. “I have no profesare decoded sional training and am self-taught with a “Frankenfrom trial and error.” frosting,” which The Butter Tree offers vanilla or is a mixture of almond sugar cookies with royal Royal Icing and icing. Each cookie is custom, hand glaze. created and takes several days to “Customers make as Cowan works from scratch, contact me for baking, coloring the icing and then any theme they decorating and drying each cookie. would like and we She asks for at least three or four work to come up days advance notice for orders. with the designs For more information, search The they want,” said FishHawk resident Paula Escobar makes cookies of any size, color and design. Butter Tree on Facebook, or call Williams. (646) 522-8952. The Sugared Owl began offering cookie classThe Sugared Owl es, which have In addition to making decorated been hosted in sugar cookies, Kerry Williams of The Cool Beans cofSugared Owl, also offers Make and fee shop in Take classes, where residents can FishHawk and learn to work with Royal Icing and Kraftology in pick up the techniques used to make Brandon, a year their own delicious works of art. ago. Williams, a FishHawk residents has “You gather been decorating cookies for four some friends and Chequita Burgess makes beautifully decorated cookies through her business C&C years and offers vanilla/orange, vanilCookie Factory. come decorate la/almond, peanut butter and choco-
Chequita Burgess of C&C Cookie Factory C&C Cookie Factory started making cookies five years ago for her friends, family, teachers, coaches and neighbors, but her delicious works of art were such a success that she started selling them last year. C&C Cookie Factory is a registered Florida Cottage Bakery operating out of Burgess’ home. “My signature product is my vanilla almond cookies, since they seem to be the preferred flavor,” said Burgess who also offers chocolate, chocolate coffee, peanut butter, pumpkin spice and pumpkin heath. For more information or to order, search C&C Cookie Factory on Facebook.
Expires 12/31/2017
December 2017
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 23
Page 24
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 December 2017
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/FishHawk
www.ospreyobserver.com
Where To Take The Family To See The Best Local Holiday Lights This Season By Michelle Colesanti
Now that the holidays are upon us, there is a lot of stress just coping with the day to day preparations. Enjoy some simple quality time with friends and family while getting into the holiday spirit. Here are some area light displays for all to enjoy.
Riverview Neighbors Team Up For National Recognition On ABC’s Great American Light Fight
Wonderland of Lights Drive Thru At Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
North Pole Productions presents Wonderland of Lights Drive Thru at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. The display will be open Thanksgiving night through Saturday, December 30. After driving through the beautiful lights, stop by the Christmas Village for camel and pony rides, North Pole Express train ride, horse drawn wagon rides. Visit with The Wolves of the World. There will be craft and gift vendors too. While enjoying the evening, the family can enjoy hot cocoa and donuts, fried dough, popcorn and cotton candy, funnel cakes, and a selection of fair foods. Vehicles (up to eight passengers) cost $20. For tickets and to view the show schedule, visit www.thewonderlandoflights.com.
It was beginning to look a lot like Christmas back in October at the homes of neighbors’ Rob Silver and Mike Richards. The two were selected to compete in ABC’s holiday reality show, The Great Christmas Light Fight. They teamed up and spent months decorating their homes in an amazing display with the hopes of beating out other national contestants in the first ‘neighbors’ battle to be aired on the show. The reality show presents families and neighborhoods across America who competes against each other to win a cash prize and the coveted Light Fight trophy. The show will air in midDecember. on ABC. Through January 2, you can enjoy the display every night at 9229 and 2931 Sunnyoak Dr. in Riverview. Stop for a few minutes watch the display which is set to music playing through a surround sound system Mike Richards, along with his on the premises. The family and Rob Silver wait for the moment the lights will be display will be lit until turned on during the October about midnight each filming of ABC’s Great night. American Light Fight.
Christmas Lane Brings Holiday Cheer To Tampa Bay Area
Christmas Lane returns to the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds on Friday, November 24. The month long winter wonderland experience will take place until December 24 inside and around the Charlie
Grimes Family Agriculture Center, 2508 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City. The elaborate displays feature over 1.5 million lights accompanying its larger-than-life decorations that use more than 168,000 watts of power. Christmas Lane is a nonprofit organization. Volunteers work more than 1,800 hours to set it up. Attendees will enjoy new displays, carnival rides, twice weekly living Nativities by area churches, expanded menu, and nightly performances by local performers. Hours are Thursday through Sunday from 6-10 p.m. each night. Tickets are $5 for adults. Children ages 4 to 12 are $3. Children 3 and under are free. Free admission will be available on Thursdays for current and former members of the military. Friday nights are free admission to teachers, first responders and law enforcement. Every child who wears his/her league jersey or shirt on Saturday’s will receive free popcorn. Seniors receive a complimentary cup of coffee on Sundays. Parking is free and
can be accessed from Lemon St. and Oak St. For more information, visit ChristmasLane.com or on Facebook at Christmas Lane.
Oakdale Light Display Among Largest In The U.S.
It has become a tradition in the Tampa Bay area for people near and far to visit the Oakdale Light Display in St. Petersburg. It was ranked in the top three nationally by NBC’s Today show, presented first in HGTV’s All Out Christmas Special and featured in People Magazine. Each year the light display is different adorning about one-half million lights. Enjoy the walk-ways, water fountains, computerized light show, animated dolls and a snowman about three stories high. The most popular item is the large HO-scale model railroad. It can run 18 trains at one time. The kids love the double bubble machines and games. Three electric meters are needed to handle the power. Although the electric bill can run as high as $4,000, the event is free and fun for everyone. Visit the display from Friday, November 24 to Wednesday, January 3, 2018 from 6-10 p.m. at 2719 Oakdale St. in St. Petersburg. Visit ChristmasDisplay.org. Oakdale Light Display.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
It’s A Wonderful Life Radio Play and The Sandbox Continue Newsome Theatre Season Two productions continue the current theatre season at Newsome High School (NHS). It’s A Wonderful Life – Live Radio Play opens for a one-night-only presentation on Monday, December 4 at 7 p.m. The family favorite It’s A Wonderful Life is brought to the stage in a holiday radio play presented by the theatre 1 classes, and features seven actors who play a variety of roles in this live radio presentation of the classic story. The cast is led by Sean Barnette as Jake Laurentis who portrays the lovable George Bailey. Barnette is accompanied by Sarah Bradley as Lana Sherwood, playing Mary Hatch. Rounding out the cast is Caden Whitford as Freddy Filmore, Sydney Long and Hannah Clor as Lana and Donna Sherwood, Matthew Slider and Amber Johnson as Harry and Patricia Heywood. The cast is joined on stage by a team of Foley artists (sound effects) led by Griffin Cerrato, and four ad singers with piano accompanist. This is a heartwarming production for young and old alike. Tickets can be purchased at the door or at www.newsometheatre.ticketleap.com for $10 for adults and $5 for students. On Tuesday, December 5, NHS Theatre presents the winter showcase at 7 p.m., featuring individual acting and
Staff Report
musical theatre acts and the competitive one act The Sandbox by Edward Albee. This production highlights acting and musical events from the Hillsborough County Individual Events, in which Newsome earned 19 superior rankings. Six of the events performed on December 5 will go on to compete at the Florida State Thespian Festival in March, 2018. After the intermission, NHS will present the competitive one act The Sandbox by Edward Albee, which is an autobiographical play in memory of Albee’s grandmother. Mommy and Daddy (played by Alyssa Readdy and Patrick Maikowski) bring Grandma (Maddalena Camilleri) to the beach at the end of her life. They are joined by The Young Man (Sean Barnette) and The Musician (Tabitha Westrate) on an exploration of family relationships and dynamics. Admission is by donation, half of which will be given to a theatre program in Puerto Rico. Those who cannot attend but would like to donate can send donations to Newsome Drama Boosters, c/o Newsome HS Theatre, 16550 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, FL 33547. Visit www.newsometheatre.com or email chad.cornwell@sdhc.k12.fl.us.
Volume 16, Issue 12
December 2017
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
GET THE DIRT
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2017 Hillsborough County Fair - Recycled Yard Art Contest – The Results Are In!
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Twice Eliana each a year, Holt’s the UF/IFAS Birdhouse Extension won the Hillsborough Middle County School sponsors a Award. She Recycled used coffee Yard Art cans, pallet Contest, wood, a one at the corrugated Hillsborough plastic County Fair sheet and a and one at fence post the Florida for her work State Fair. of art. The purAll of pose of the Eliana Holt’s Birdhouse The People’s Choice Winner the contest won the Middle School was Jim Dreby, for his Yard winning Recycled Award. Minion. Yard Art entries will Contest is to increase environmental be on display at the UF/IFAS Extension awareness and encourage reuse/recyService, 5339 CR 579, in Seffner until cling of materials into yard art. The December 4. Please stop by to view competition involved two and three these creations, stroll through the Bette dimensional art created from items S. Walker Discovery Garden and see already used for what the their original purExtension pose. During the Service has to eight days of the offer. 2017 The creativiHillsborough ty of all of the County Fair, artists is amazattendees voted ing. Most of the for the People’s artwork that was Choice award on entered into the one several Recycled Yard entries submitArt contest ted. The votes would look fabuhave been tallous in many lied, all 2,782 of Margaret Thompson’s Dishes Garden won the landscapes. Judge’s Choice for adult submissions. them and the Each of us People’s Choice would probably Winner is Jim Dreby, for his Yard be surprised at how creative we can Minion which was created using scrap be. This is a great time to put on your muffler tubing, an air tank, kids’ boots thinking caps for a Recycled Yard Art and belt, a tank cover and auto engine project you have been considering crepulley. ating…and create it. We will have two Margaret Thompson’s Dishes Recycled Yard Art competitions in Garden won the Judge’s Choice Award 2018; one at the Fair Florida State Fair, for Adult submissions. She created her and one at the Hillsborough County. glass yard art from various dishes and Contact Lisa Meredith glassware which look like flowers in a meredithL@hillsboroughcounty.org or garden. 744-5519 x 54146.
Introduced Alcantara BRZ SERIES.YELLOW four years ago, seats with the 2017 yellow stitchSubaru BRZ ing and the Tires: 215/45R17 gains more BRZ logo on Wheelbase: 101.2 inches power, styling the front seatupdates, backs. Other Length: 166.7 inches revamped susSuspension: MacPherson strut eye-catching pension, goodies front; double wishbone rear among other include a minor changes. Steering: electric-power assist redesigned The rearleather Weight: 2,785 pounds wheel-drive tilt/telescopic Fuel capacity: 13.2 gallons sporty coupe is steering still equipped wheel, 6.2City: 21 mpg with a 2.0-liter inch infotainHighway: 29 mpg inline-4 horiment touchBase price: $29,695 zontally screen, dual opposed auto a/c, foldWeb site: www.subaru.com DOHC engine down rear putting out 205 seat, aluhorsepower (up 5) @ 7000 rpm and minum alloy pedals, frameless 156 pounds-feet of torque @ 6400 rearview mirror and a 4.2-inch instrurpm. The revised and lively 6-speed ment display next to the tachometer. manual gearbox is fun to shift. Standard safety features include Updated coil springs and dampers dual front and side airbags, side curlend more nimbleness and significant tain airbag, revised hill start assist, body control to the ride, whether it is rearview camera, vehicle stability and in city or cruising the highway. A stan- traction control, four-wheel antilock dard Torsen limited slip differential brakes with brake assist, remote keykeeps the coupe in control at sharp less entry, tire pressure monitoring corners and turns. system and daytime running lights. Only 500 of the Series. Yellow Push the starter button to sumBRZ that we test drove will be sold. mon the 4-cylinder Boxer engine and Making this trim unique is black BRZ the rev-happy BRZ emits an exhaust and Subaru exterior badging, yellow rumble that will delight any sports door handles, foldable exterior mircoupe enthusiast. Stout and gorrors, LED headlights and fog lamps, geous-looking from any angle, the and a prominent rear spoiler. Step four-seater is by no means a speed into the cabin and the first thing you demon but it deservedly earns a will notice is black leather and report card full of great marks.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
December 2017
Page 29
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
where water and gravity form a perfect partnership, the crest of this 70-ft. tower challenges you with two 425 ft. wave paths. Step into one of two skyboxes, and face your fears as the floor disappears beneath lesanti, o C e ll you. Or, get horizontal on a e h d by Mic rver.com e il p m o 455-ft. long slide ending with e C obs @osprey e ll e h a high speed finale. ic m Vanish Point will be located at the center of the park next to another family-favorite thrill slide, Colossal Curl™. Visit AdventureIsland.com for Christmas In The Country At more information. Follow the Cracker Country Adventure Island Facebook page and Bring the family for a great day join the conversation experiencing the sights, sounds and with #VowToVanish smells of an old fashioned country @AdventureIsland on Twitter. Christmas. On Saturday, December 9 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., learn how the holiday traditions of the 19th century differ from those of the 21st through hands-on historical interpretations, carols, traditional decorations and more. Cracker Country is Tampa’s only living history museum and is located on the Florida State Fairgrounds. It was founded with the purpose of preserving Florida’s rural heritage in 1978 by Mildred W. & Doyle E. Carlton, Jr. The museum holds a collection of 13 original buildings dating from 1870-1912 which were relocated from across the state of Florida. Our Spend at day on Saturday, December 9 experiencing an old fashioned Christmas at Cracker Country at the buildings range from public Florida State Fairgrounds. buildings like our Terry Store and Okahumpka Train Depot, to priJamey Moody To Run For vate buildings like our Carlton and Hillsborough County Circuit Smith homes. Today, the historically Court Judge furnished buildings recreate the Plant City native James ‘Jamey’ lifestyles of the past, and costumed Moody III has filed to run for Circuit interpreters portray daily living as Judge, serving Hillsborough County. Florida pioneers. Moody, a local attorney and The Fairgrounds are located at Florida native, graduated from Plant 4800 Hwy. 301 N. in Tampa. The cost City High School and is the son of is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and longtime Federal Judge James S. children (6-12), children 5 years old Moody, Jr. He received his degrees and younger will be admitted free. from the University of Florida, and Parking costs $6 per vehicle (cash worked in the finance sector prior to only). Enter the fairgrounds via MLK receiving his Juris Doctor. He was and park near Gate 2 (Cracker selected to Super Lawyers Rising Country entrance). Visit www.crackerStars (2011-2014), is a member of country.org/index.php/comethe Hillsborough County Bar visit/christmas-in-the-country. Association, and the Plant City Bar Association, where he served as Vanish Point Slides Into President from 2006-2008. He is Adventure Island In 2018 admitted to practice in the State Guests are in for the slide of their Courts of Florida, and the United lives when Adventure Island® Tampa States District Court for the Middle Bay’s new epic drop slide, Vanish District of Florida. Point®, opens in March 2018. Jamey is a volunteer attorney Inspired by the point on a wave with Bay Area Legal Services, Rotary
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Local Civil Air Patrol Group Participates In Wreaths Across America
On December 16, Local Civil Air Patrol cadets along with others unload semi trucks loaded full of donated wreaths and actually place each of these wreaths individually on graves. Wreaths cost $15 each and will go to a worthy cause. You can purchase multiples and corporate packages are also available. The donation is tax deductible. If you would like to place an order online, visit https://donate.wreathsacrossamerica.org/?pageId=29839&relatedIds=1 5641. You can ask for a specific per-
son to receive a wreath if you have a veteran in your life laid to rest at a National Cemetery. There are also options to request wreaths in “honor of" a Veteran still living or in “memory of” a veteran that has passed away, or just purchase wreaths with no special indications. Locally, Paula Drennan’s son is in the Civil Air Patrol Group and will be glad to pick up your monetary donation. Call her at 421-0526 if you would like to donate or have any questions. You are also welcome to help with the wreath distribution at any local National Cemeteries. The closest is the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.
Master Gardener Class On Organic Vegetable Gardening
Gardener Brad Ward will hold a Master Gardener Clinic on Organic Vegetable Gardening on Wednesday, December 6 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. The clinic will inform how to successfully grow vegetables organically and to learn which varieties of vegetables do best in central Florida and when to start those seeds. It is sponsored by the Hillsborough County Master Gardner Program of the Hillsborough County Extension, University of Florida, IFAS Extension.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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Newsome High School Chorus Winter Concert
The award-winning Newsome High School Chorus under the direction of Jeffry Bogue will hold its annual Winter Concert on Thursday, December 14. This show will send your spirits soaring and get you in the holiday mood with beautiful selections of your favorite holiday songs. The concert begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Newsome High School auditorium, 16550 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. The show is free and open to the public.
Girl Scout’s Silver Project Helps Give Comfort To Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemo
Grace Allen, an 8th grade Randall Middle School student is a Cadette in the Girl Scouts working on her Silver Award project. Her project, Pretty in Pink, creates goody/comfort bags to women who are undergoing chemo treatment for breast cancer. In order to raise money to pay for the items in the bags (medical socks, crossword puzzles and pen, tea cup/tea bags, water bottle and a lot more. Grace created an event called Pretty in Pink where over 70 moms and daughters attended at Camp Dorothy Thomas paying $5 each to participate. During the event, 78 bags were created. The bags will be delivered to Florida Cancer Specialists throughout the year and be given to patients at the Brandon office located at 403 South Kings Ave. The Girl Scout Advisor was Carol Bradbourne and Project Advisor - Dr. Julia Cogburn. The Silver Award is the highest award given to Girl Scouts in grades 6-8.
Volume 16, Issue 12
Believe! A Christmas Concert
Plant City Community Chorale will present Believe! A Christmas Concert sponsored by Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church, 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Brandon on Saturday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. Under the direction of Claudia Bolano Grace Allen, a Randall Middle School student and Cadette Girl Scout helped to create goody bags for women undergoing chemo Becerra, the concert promtreatment for breast cancer for her Silver Award project. ises to bring you the timeless message of Christmas education to restore faith in the and fill your heart with joy. Tickets School Board, focus on the students and classroom, and fix the problems we have in the school district You can donate to help fund Hottenstein’s campaign by sending a check made out to Friends to Elect Plant City Chorale Scott Hottenstein to cost $10 in advance - $15 at door, 5668 FishHawk Crossing Blvd., Ste. are available at www.pccchorale.org, 354, Lithia, FL 33547. from any chorale member or by callVisit on Facebook at ‘Mr. H for ing 951-5166. School Board.’
Social Media Savviness For Small Business
An interactive workshop on Social Media Savviness for Small Businesses will be held on Thursday, December USA STARS BBI (dba USA STARS) managed by Coach Rich Luppino, present check to ‘Plaza Bella Goes Pink’ Event in 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the October. Bloomingdale Regional Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Local Baseball Teams And The Valrico. This workshop will teach you Stein & Vine Team Up For Breast how to use social media channels like Cancer Awareness Month Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to During October, USA Stars - 9U, reach your target audience. Call 20411U and 12U baseball teams pur2602 for more information. chased pink shirts which the boys wore through the month. Each player Scott Hottenstein Announces was asked to pay $20 for their shirt. Candidacy For County-Wide The Stein & Vine supported the School Board Seat In 2018 teams and offered to buy the shirts, Local Barrington MS teacher, a total of 30. In return the boys were Scott Hottenstein, has announced he asked that the money still be collect- will run for county-wide District 6 ed from the families and that it would school board seat in 2018. be donated on behalf of the to the After 24 years in the Navy and Bella Plaza goes Pink event, where five years as a teacher, Hottenstein a check was presented on October would like to use his skills and experi21. ence in leadership, management, and
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December 2017
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Daley & Associates Provides World-Class Medical Care In A Personal Way
By Nick Nahas
Dr. currently Andrew Chairman of Daley has the Quality always had a Council and passion for was the Chief helping his of Staff of patients. As a Brandon result, he Regional formed his Hospital. own traditionAccording al internal to the website, medical pracpatients of Dr. Daley celebrates the one-year anniversary of opening his practice in Brandon. tice, Daley & Daley & Associates Prime Medical Tampa Bay, in Associates enjoy a full range of compre2013 in Bradenton. In 2015, he opened hensive health services, including prevenhis second location in Brandon, where he tative health and wellness counseling and currently lives. “We want to treat the diabetic teaching. The electronic medical patient as if they are a part of a larger records used by the practice ensure effifamily,” Daley said. “My practice extends cient access and accurate safekeeping beyond the four walls; it also extends while maintaining the highest standards care to the outpatients’ home.” for the privacy and security of records. Dr. Since graduating from medical Daley is currently accepting new patients. school at the University of Connecticut in For customers’ convenience, most 1997, he has been practicing medicine commercial insurance, including Aetna, for over 20 years. Daley, an Air Force vet- AvMed, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, eran, moved to the Brandon area when CIGNA, Humana, Tricare, and United he was assigned to MacDill Air Force Healthcare are accepted. Traditional Base back in 2003. He was a major in Medicare as well as the following the Air Force, as well as a physician and Medicare Advantage plans: Aetna, Blue Chief of Internal Medicine. Before he Cross and Blue Shield, CIGNA, Freedom started his own practice, he was a manHealthcare, Humana PPO, and United aging partner at Cornerstone Medicare of Healthcare Medicare Complete are also Brandon for eight years. accepted. Daley has had a decorated career in “I’d like to feel like I am a part of the medical field. He currently sits on the something much bigger,” said Daley. “I’d board at Brandon Regional Hospital and like the opportunity to give the kind of has chaired the Diabetes Performance care that my family and I have received in Improvements Committee. Daley was the past.” also past chair and is a current member For more information call Dr. Daley’s of the Hospital Board of Trustees. He is office at 530-0903.
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Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
P R E SS
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By Tamas Mondovics
Students Earn Softball Scholarships Plus Coach Spotlight Local Athletics Bloomingdale Students Take Athletics To The Next Level
Area students have been busy making their mark on the community by shining some light on their talents and abilities as well as taking their athletic skills to the next level. Included in the list of just a few of the many students worthy of mention are Photo submitted by TBB Photo submitted by Bloomingdale High School Bloomingdale High School varsity football coach, Bloomingdale High School Bloomingdale High School softball players Lexie Max Warner, left, enjoyed the spotlight and $2,000 athletes, Lexie Chevalier, Chevalier, Alexys Lawson and Amanda Beinborn to benefit the program after being named Tampa Alexys Lawson and Amanda smile while celebrating their commitment of taking Bay Buccaneers Coach of the week. In his second Bryan Fisher, and his twin, Ryan enjoyed their skills to the next level. season with the Bulls, Warner led the program to its Beinborn. the spotlight after winning first place in third post season playoff game in school history. level five singles during the Special In harmony with school www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. The Bulls finished the year with a 5-1 district record. Olympics North America Tennis tradition, the girls enjoyed the spotlight, Championship. free tennis clinic for mentally handicapped while celebrating their official commitment Local Twins Win Gold At Special tournament was a national tenThe athletes. The twins joined BSAC in the to taking their softball skills to the next Olympics National Tennis nis championship that saw 120 athletes 2002-2003 season at the age of 16. level during a recent signing day at the Championship from around the United States, who have “They are amazing individuals who give school media room. Two local teens and Brandon Sports competed in levels one through five in to our community by volunteering at back With teachers, family and friends and Aquatic Center (BSAC) ‘Tennis For doubles, and unified matchplay. singles, ECHO,” said Brandon area resident Judy present, Lexie committed to University of Fun’ athletes Bryan Fisher, and his twin, The twins turned in a solid performance Moore. Tampa, followed by Alexys to Florida Ryan, 31, were chosen to compete in the and each won gold medals in level five Run entirely by self motivated and International University and Amanda to Special Olympics North America tennis singles. willing volunteers ‘Tennis For Fun’ is now Hillsborough Community College. championship held at the Vandermeer Currently, Bryan and Ryan train at in its 18th year. Congratulations Bryan For more information about Tennis club, Hilton Head Island, South the BSAC ‘Tennis For Fun’ program, a and Ryan. Visit www.tennisforfun.org. Bloomingdale High School, please visit Carolina in late October.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Sports
Connection Local Students Show Off Their Powers At World Power Competition Stories and Photos By Tamas Mondovics
Female Powerlifters Represent Community At World Power Competition In Las Vegas
Fourth Quarter Interception Ends Bulls Third Post Season Appearance
Members of year. BPHAT Fitness, a While, Little private full power stuholds two Florida dio gym have every State records, reason to be pleased Boettger—a straight with the recent sucA student who is cess of a pair of its working on developathletes who coming a power-team peted during the club at Newsome so International she can train athPowerlifting League letes—holds three (IPL) World Power Florida State records, competition in Las two American Vegas last month. records and one Bloomingdale world record. High School gradu“Anna went from ate Katie Little, 21, a less than a year, nursing student at walking into the gym USF, who teaches to become a world swimming at the class lifter,” he said, Brandon Aquatics adding, “That is sucCenter and her team cess.” Photo courtesy of BPHAT mate Anna Boettger, BPHAT Fitness powerlifters Katie Little, 21 Located at 3638 15 a Newsome High and Anna Boettger 15, competed in the Lithia Pinecrest Rd. annual International Powerlifting League School sophomore, (IPL) World Power lifting competition in in Valrico, BPHAT won gold and silver Las Vegas last month. Little won a gold offers one-to-one medals respectively while Boettger brought home a silver and personal training, broke an American record during the comduring the annual small Group petition. event. Strength and Fitness Boettger also broke an American classes, as well as classes for highly competitive USPA Power Lifting Team record during the competition proving to that holds State, American and World be the rightful tourney winner. records. According to Matthew Brewer, a BPHAT’s emphasis is on the individBPHAT certified personal fitness trainer ual member to help them define their with more than 20 years of experience, goals, develop a plan “to reach those both girls had to go through a number of qualifiers just to be invited to the competi- goals and teach you how to achieve and maintain them.” tion. Brewer said this in itself is a huge Brewer summed up the fitness faciliaccomplishment. “I am extremely proud of the girls and ty’s recent success when he said, “The girls are amazing athletes and I'm both what they were able to accomplish in the proud and lucky to have such talented in short time they have been training at the my gym.” gym,” Brewer said, adding that while For more information, please visit Katie has been training for about 18 www.BPHATfitness.com. months, Anna just a little more than a
That the fans that have Bloomingdale Bulls filled the bleachvarsity football ers to the tilt, conteam enjoyed one fidence of attendof its best season ing a great playoff this fall, which game, which at includes the prothe end between gram’s third post the two teams season appearcombined nearly ance in school his1,000 yards of tory, there is no offense. question. Sadly, less Bloomingdale running back Charles Montgomery breaks through the Titans d-line than 30 yards Unfortunately, for a first down. the Bulls managed from the Titans’ to put up a strong fight, they were unable end zone, Bloomingdale’s chances of to take down their first post season oppo- advancing were halted in the fourth quarnent, Tampa Bay Tech Titans (10-1), the ter when quarterback Tyler Hunter hurled No. 2 seed that won its 10th consecutive a pass down the field only to be interceptcontest after defeating Bloomingdale 42ed by TBT’s Jeremiah Brown. The Titans 22. Bloomingdale lost to TBT earlier in the returned the gift in the next drive for an season 49-21, but were ready and confi80-yard TD run by Treshaun Ward. dent to once again face the Titans. Minutes later Bloomingdale fans “We are excited to make school hiswere crushed to see the interception of tory tonight,” Bulls coach Max Warner another one of Turner’s passes that said prior to the game. “We started the sealed the game with another 18-yard season 0-2, but our seniors did an outTBT touchdown. standing job to lead the team to this playBloomingdale may now have to wait off game. for the next season to go farther, but its On its way to regionals, season success is not without praise from Bloomingdale (7-4), the No. 7-ranked fans, teachers and school administration, team, defeated its Class 7A, District 9 all proud of the winning program, which rival Durant 21-15 and set up the proended the season with an outstanding 5gram for a round-two against the Titans in 1 district record. the 7A region three quarterfinal game. For information, please visit The scoreless first quarter gave Bulls’ www.maxpreps.com.
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Page 34
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Local Soccer Clubs Collect Toys For Needy With Kicks For Tots Program
By Kate Quesada
Young athwho really need letes from socthem,” said De cer clubs Brigard. around the DOC at area are learnTampa Dynamo ing more than FC, Dimas sports this holiAmaral is workday season. ing with De Players and Brigard to colfamilies at lect as many clubs all over toys as possithe Tampa ble. The club, and players with the Florida Hawks FC and area are partic- Coaches Tampa Dynamo FC soccer clubs are collecting new, which has fields ipating in a in Valrico and in unwrapped toys for underprivileged children this month. Kicks for Tots, Riverview’s a toy drive started by the Directors of Summerfield community, recently Coaching (DOC) at Florida Hawks FC offered a player clinic where the cost and Tampa Dynamo FC to make sure of admission was a toy for the drive. that underprivileged children have gifts to “The game of soccer has given me open this month. so much and I feel strongly that I have Juan De Brigard, DOC at the an obligation to use my role to give FishHawk based Florida Hawks FC, back to those who need,” said Amaral, reached out to 52 soccer clubs in the who would like to make this an annual Region C area, which covers Citrus event for as many local clubs as possiCounty south to Cape Coral, asking for ble. “We also want our players to realdonations of new, unwrapped toys. ize the importance of giving back and “Soccer is a huge economic force of playing a role in the whole commuthese days,” said De Brigard who took nity, not just as soccer players.” over as DOC at the Hawks earlier this For more information on the colyear. “It is a community that has the ability lection, contact De Brigard at to give and we are helping them channel doc@floridahawksfc.com or Amaral at their generosity to those who need it.” 503-2337. To learn more about Florida Toys will be collected at participating Hawks FC, which offers competitive clubs until December 12 at which point and recreational soccer programs for De Brigard will distribute them between boys, girls and adults, visit www.floriToys for Tots, Metropolitan Ministries and dahawksfc.com. For more information The Red Cross. on Tampa Dynamo and it’s wide vari“We feel that distributing through ety of soccer programs in Riverview these established charities is the safest and Valrico, visit www.tampadyway to make sure the toys get to those namofc.com.
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Page 35
Page 36
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
Take Your Holiday Playlist Live With The Bayshore Automotive Offers Custom Jeeps For Holidays Florida Orchestra By Kelly Smith By Kate Quesada
For holiday magic that doesn’t come from a mall, there’s The Florida Orchestra (TFO). From the essential Holiday Pops to special performances of Handel’s divine Messiah, your holidays will be merry and meaningful with TFO concerts. Put these on your list:
Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2 (Friday to Sunday, December 13): Is there any greater gift
than gorgeous live music? These masters of melody don’t disappoint, with Rachmaninoff’s lush Symphony No. 2 and Prokofiev’s soaring Violin Concerto No. 2, performed by Alex Kerr. Now with a Sunday matinee that’s perfect for families. Plus, kids and teens get in free to this and all Tampa Bay Times Masterworks concerts, with Classical Kids tickets in advance. Regular tickets start at $15. Stuart Malina conducts.
Happy Hour Concert: Cheers! (Tuesday, December 7): Say
cheers to both the holidays and TFO’s 50th birthday with free drinks, live symphonic music and a musician meet-and-greet after work. It’s the happiest happy hour of the season. Stuart Malina is your merry host and conductor. Bars open at 5:30 p.m.,
with hour-long concert at 6:30 p.m., at the Straz Center. The cost is $35.
Holiday Pops (Friday to Sunday, December 15-17):
Have a jolly good time with the whole family at this annual tradition brimming with holiday favorites, including Sleigh Ride, Carol of the Bells, Let it Snow, Ava Maria and a holiday sing-along. William Waldrop conducts, with Camille Zamora on vocals. Part of the Raymond James Pops series, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets start at $15.
Handel’s Messiah (Friday to Sunday, December 21-23): Just
days before Christmas, Michael Francis leads the orchestra and the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay in Handel’s Messiah at the Mahaffey Theater, Idlewild Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks, featuring the glorious ‘Hallelujah’ chorus. Tickets for churches are $30; Mahaffey tickets are $15, $30, $45, $55. The Florida Orchestra regularly performs at the Straz Center in Tampa, Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Get tickets at www.floridaorchestra.org or 727892-3337 and 1-800-662-7286.
Are you having a difficult time shopping for the hard to buy for person on your holiday list? Brandon resident Kevin Champ suggests you think about a custom Jeep or truck. Champ, general manager of Bayshore Automotive on E. Adamo Dr., has many satisfied customers all over the country who have purchased custom vehicles as surprises for family members for the holidays or birthdays and anniversaries. “Our products are specialized,” said Champ. “If you’re looking for something no one else has, you’ve come to the right place.” Under owner FishHawk resident Darren Vivolo, Bayshore Automotive, opened in 2000 specializing in high-end, difficult to find European vehicles, and began offering customized Jeeps and trucks out of a 20,000 sq. ft. warehouse about five years ago. Technicians at Bayshore Automotive take basic vehicles, usually Jeep Wranglers, and fix up the exteriors and interiors with a variety of packages, most commonly including paint jobs or vehicle wraps, wheels, tires, hood upgrades, lights and lifts. “Our vehicles are like custom built homes on wheels,” said Champ. “Many of our customers want to have something to show off their personality and there are so many ways we can do that.” In addition to customizing the outside of the vehicle, Bayshore Automotive can
Darren Vivolo, Kevin Champ, April Champ and Emily Hall, the team at Bayshore Automotive offer vehicle customizations in their Adamo Dr. warehouse.
also upgrade the inside with electronics including cameras and navigation systems and personal color combinations including leather and upholstery. Turbo charges can also be added to increase horsepower. Customers can supply the technicians with their own previously purchased vehicle or can chose from one of the approximately 50 vehicles at various stages of customization in the warehouse. In addition to Jeeps, Toyota Tundras and GMC four-wheel-drive vehicles are also popular choices for customization. In addition to local business, Bayshore has customers around the country. “One of our recent buyers owns a jewelry store on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills,” said Champ. Bayshore Automotive is located at 2801 E. Adamo Dr. and can be reached at 241-4000. Visit www.bayshoreautomotive.com.
December 2017
Page 37
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Wolfpack’s JROTC Battalion Keeps Busy This Month With Awards, Accolades & More
By S5 section: Isabelle Guevara and Mckenzee Thorton
October has The Cyber Patriot team, a very eventful JLAB (JROTC month while the Leadership and Newsome Academic Bowl), Color Wolfpack Guard, and Drill teams Battalion particiare all practicing hard pated in a myriand preparing for their ad of events and respective competitions. accomplished Along with County many things. Newsome Cadets Mallory Hirn, Kristina and District wide compeThe battalion Flynn, Joseph Ahrens and Lauren Lewis titions there were a few were recognized at the YLC (Youth celebrated its wins within the Wolfpack Leadership Conference) luncheon. Not 13th Birthday Battalion this month. pictured cadets Emma Custis, Alex this year and Cadet PV2 Braden Bugielski, and Dylan Renfro the Battalion Desouza came in first enjoyed festivities place at the October including cookies, Cadet of the Month cake, punch, and board, and Cadet SFC the traditional Zachary Dench came reading of the in First in October’s meaning of the NCO (noncommisHillsborough sioned officer) of the County Unit Month board. In addiCrest. tion to these achieveThis month ments, cadet 1LT the JROTC Raquel Janes has The Battalion decorated a classroom in been accepted to VMI (Junior Reserve the theme of Moana and hosted a game Officer Training in the courtyard and handed out candy with a full tuition athletic to local children for Newsome’s Trick Or scholarship. Corps) special Treat Street. teams have comCadet Custis and peted in several competitions: The Raider Lewis received the MOWW (Military Team competed at USF last month placOrder of World Wars) Patrick Henry ing 2nd overall; in November they comPatriotism medal for being selected by peted at Anclote with both the Mixed and their peers as the top individual in their Male teams placing 1st overall; and later respective groups. competed at Zephyrhills where the Mixed The three-day camp took place in team placed 2nd and the Male team Tallahassee, and it consisted of various placed 1st. The Rifle Team placed first at character building activities which chalPlant City, maintaining their six-year lenged and instilled leadership and teamundefeated streak at the County level. work skills.
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Page 38
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Photos and story by Tamas Mondovics
Randall Keeps Promise, Celebrates Patriots Day, Veterans Day With Touching Display Randall Hosts Veterans Day, 9/11 Memorials
school day, which they said allowed seniors who had not yet met reading benchmarks for the FSA to take the SAT in school dur-
centage points to 79.1 over the prior year. “I congratulate our seniors for achieving this next step to earning their diploma,” said Superintendent Jeff Eakins. “Our teachers and staff at our schools and across the district are ensuring all students have opportunities to succeed. Earning a high school diploma will be life changing for these students.”
Thanks to Hurricane Irma, earlier this fall, the annual 9/11 Patriots Day Memorial ceremonies had to be postponed. In harmony with the message of ‘We Will Never Forget’ the memorial may have been delayed but certainly not forgotten. One such annual ceremony, Great American Teach-In which has become a FishHawk Photo by Tamas Mondovics Hillsborough County Public community pride is held each 9/11 Patriot Day Memorial Schools have once again welcomed year at Randall Middle School. Baseball Cap speakers into classrooms to become This year the celebration teachers for a day by discussing and began on Monday, November 6 demonstrating their professions and corresponding with the annual hobbies during the 2-17 Great Veterans Day ceremonies as stuAmerican Teach-In held on Thursday, dents, teachers and school November 16. administration once again took Students had a chance to learn action in remembering the 2,977 ing the fall semester for the first time from the members of the community victims of the 2001 9/11 terrorist ever. along with parents about careers they attacks. “The results are back and 750 may not have known about or even Randall social studies Photo Courtesy by Allan Miller seniors earned what the state calls thought about pursuing previously. teacher Kristy Verdi explained The well-known expression and political slogan ‘concordant scores,’ which guarantees This year’s speakers ranged from that students, through their social used to urge others to remember the events of that the reading scores are high curators at Busch Gardens, military studies classes, have again cre- the 2001 9/11 terrorist attacks posted at Randall Middle School. enough to earn a diploma, regardless personnel, local athletes, firefighters ated the memorial markers used of how they do on future state tests,” and police officers along with individufor every one of the victims which joined in the memorial effort by purstated Tanya Arja with HCPS commuals highlighting 3-D printing, healthy are placed in the ground in the shape chasing durable pre-colored markers nications. eating and exercise. of an American flag. and plastic stakes to make the project Hillsborough County Public Throughout the day school guests “Through participation in creating more sustainable and easier for stuSchools has a goal of reaching a 90 spoke directly with students about the the markers and through classroom dents to assemble. percent graduation rate by the year benefits of getting a good education instruction, our students learn about To support the R.A.Y.S. Councils’ 2020. and the importance of becoming valuthe events, causes, and impact the many service-learning projects, please The most recent graduation rate able members of the community. events of September 11, 2001 have contact kristy.verdi@sdhc.k12.fl.us. (2015-2016) for Hillsborough County For more details please visit had on our nation,” Verdi said, adding, Public Schools increased three-perwww.sdhc.k12.fl.us. “The students at Randall were born District Reports More after 2001 and many do not know Seniors On Path To what happened on 9/11 and why it is Graduation now remembered as Patriot Day.” HCPS officials Since 2009, the project has been reported that hundreds organized annually through the of seniors in Randall Area Youth Service Council’s Hillsborough County service-learning program. Public Schools are now In 2011, the R.A.Y.S. Council was on track to graduate recognized by the KidsVote organizaafter earning a crucial tion as the National Impact Award reading score on the recipient and travelled to Washington, SAT. D.C. to receive the honor. Early last month The project was also recognized the district offered a by TrueHero.org with a $1000 grant. free opportunity to take Newland Communities, Home the SAT during the Depot, and United Rental have also Randall Middle School 6th grade English students Learned about journalism at the Great American Teach In.
December 2017
Page 39
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Local Youth Make A Difference During Hurricane Irma Recovery Effort
Feely Athletics Paves Way For Kicking & Punting Students To Get To NFL
As the weren’t emodawn broke tionally ready over Naples, to let their Tye Stevens’ things go, he eyes widened said, even in disbelief. He though there had heard wasn’t much about the that could be damage the salvaged. city sustained What struck when it took a him, however, direct hit from was that they category 3 were full of Hurricane Irma Latter-day Saints from the Brandon area take a gratitude break from cutting up downed trees in Naples on September rather than during cleanup from Hurricane Irma. 10, but seeing despair. “They it in person left the were thankful to be typically talkative 13alive, even though year-old at a loss for they lost so much,” words. he said. “And they “I was stunned,” were grateful for our he said. “Trees help even though everywhere, flooded after working all day houses, ruined posit looked like we’d sessions – I couldn’t hardly done anybelieve it.” thing.” Tye was one of Other crews hundreds of memworked mostly on bers from Tampa the downed trees Bay area congregathat littered the Mark McCausland helps distribute chain saws to work crews in Naples tions of The Church yards of seemingly after Hurricane Irma. of Jesus Christ of every house, cutting Latter-day Saints who answered a call limbs and branches and even trunks into from church leaders to help the southmanageable pieces and then hauling west Florida area begin recovering from them to the curb for eventual removal. the storm. Some had helped with relief Though the experience left the youth efforts after Hurricane Charlie in 2004 scraped, bruised, and exhausted (“and and Hurricane Katrina in 2005, but many smelly,” Evan added), they said it also left had no idea what to expect. That made them better people. Stephanie said she their first sight of the widespread damage felt a deeper compassion for the suffering “a little overwhelming,” said Stephanie of others. McCausland, 16, who along with Tye and Kimberly Maximo, 14, said what other youth who came to help is a memimpressed her most was how the storm ber of the Providence Ward, an LDS con- brought people together. “I noticed that gregation in Brandon. “There was so there were other churches and organizamuch to be done, we almost didn’t know tions helping too, not just ours,” she said. where to start.” “And when people saw us helping, a lot Some of the youth helped clear out of times they came over to lend a hand houses that had been flooded several too. It reminded me how important it is to feet deep from the storm surge. love and serve each other no matter “Everything had to come out,” said Becca what kind of differences we have.” Maximo, 12, “and that was hard work Adults who served with the young because it was all wet and heavy and men and women said their service had there was an inch or two of mud on an impact on others that transcended the everything. We had to build a little bridge work accomplished. “Most of the folks we from stuff lying around just to get into the talked to were really impressed that house. But what was harder was knowing these kids gave up their weekends to the family who lived there had lost pretty come serve,” said Austin Kramer, who much everything.” serves as a counselor to Bishop Becca’s father Julio, who leads the Maximo. “Not to mention how hard they Providence Ward as bishop, agreed. worked and how much they accomMany of the people his crew worked with plished.”
Tom Feely has Feely Athletics, the premade an impact on mier kicking, snapping many young lives, and punting school in the whether it is in the classU.S. Fifteen of Feely’s sturoom or on the football dents have made it to the field. Feely, a National NFL, most notably, Jay, Board Certified teacher who played for 14 seaand counselor, is the sons in the league and is only person in his field now a football commentawith that honor. He has tor and analyst for CBS. been coaching sports for Other students include most of his life, including current NFL punters Matt Photo courtesy of Tom Feely football for 47 years and Boscher and Brad Pinion Tom Feely is the founder of Feely Athletics, the premier kick- and kicker Cody Parkey. three state champiing, snapping and punting school onships. In 2014, Feely’s life in the U.S. Feely, a father of six changed forever. He was sons took a special interest in kicking in great physical shape, having run severwhen his son, Jay Feely, wanted to transi- al marathons and triathlons as an adult tion from soccer to football when he was and was also considered a healthy eater. in high school. “I had already coached At the age of 62, he was sent to the hoshigh school football for about 20 years pital after having chest pains, and doctors when he was dubbed the JV kicker, but I determined that because of his genetics, knew nothing about kicking, so together he would need multiple bypass operations for his heart. “Now I am in better we embarked on a journey to learn from shape than I was 30 years ago, and 40 the few experts of the day,” said Feely. pounds lighter. I have made drastic With the combination of what they lifestyle changes, which have made a learned from the kicking gurus and Tom’s huge difference.” background in sports psychology, they Feely has used his new lease on life were able to come up with a formula for to continue to make a difference in young success. “We developed a distinct approach to lives. He is now retired from teaching and counseling and spends a lot of his time kicking that helped me weather the ebbs training football players. His company, and flows of the position,” said Jay Feely. “I was successful because I was mentally Feely Athletics, has become a success, and has helped many athletes gain coltough and that is directly attributable to lege scholarships and even make it to the my father.” NFL. After his success with Jay and the For more information, or if you would knowledge he had gained about the like to sign up for lessons, visit mechanics of kicking, Tom began teachFeelyAthletics.com. ing other students. He later founded
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Page 40
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
s and e i t i v i t s e hF Chanuka riters Meet & W Brandon ore… M elle Colesanti, h d by Mic m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e michell
Brandon Christian Writers Meet
Do you have a story to share but don’t know how to start? Would you like to get your feet wet in the sea of publishing? Come meet with a great mix of successful and aspiring writers who get together monthly to learn the ropes, find inspiration and enjoy networking. The Brandon Christian Writers meet the fourth Thursday of every month at St. Andrews Methodist Church, 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon in Room 305 of the Family Center. Further info and guidelines for manuscript critique can be found at www.BrandonChristianWriters.word press.com.
Chabad Jewish Discovery Center Holds Community Events To Celebrate Chanukah
The following events will be held by the Chabad Jewish Discovery Center to celebrate Chanukah. A Chanukah Festival will take place at Winthrop Town Centre on Tuesday December 12 at 6 p.m. The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue's selfless service to the community will be saluted, and a captain honored with kindling the center flame of the Menorah. A fire engine will be on hand for everyone to explore and learn more about our local heroes. There will be a Mega Gelt Drop as the firefighters drop over 1,000 chocolate gelt coins from the fire engine for everyone to enjoy. The event will also feature Face Painting, Tony the Balloon guy, Hot Latkes, Chanukah craft and more. It is free to attend. Chanukah Klezmer Festival & Menorah Lighting at the Sun City Center Chamber of Commerce will
feature The Freylach band. It will take place on Thursday, December 14 at 4:30 p.m. Admission is free. Enjoy NY deli style food for sale. A Chanukah Chocolate Gelt Factory & Electric Menorah Wiring Workshop will take place on Sunday, December 17 at 11 a.m. at the Chabad Jewish Discovery Center, 1578 Bloomingdale Ave, in Valrico. The event is for families with children ages 3-13. The cost is $8 per child. A Menorah Lighting at Park Square in Fishawk Ranch will occur in front of Cool Beans on Sunday, December 17 at 6 p.m. It will feature Kindling of giant Menorah, Chocolate gelt, Hot Latkes, Chanukah Music, Chanukah crafts and more. It is free of charge. For more information on these events, email jewishbrandon.com/hanukkah or call 571-8100.
Holiday Luncheon For Brandon Christian Women’s Connection
The Brandon Christian Women’s Connection will celebrate Christmas at the December luncheon ‘Winter Wonderland’ on Monday December 11 from 11 a.m.1 p.m. at Bell Shoals Bapist Church in the Special Event Center, located at 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. This is a nondenominational luncheon for all ladies with no membership required. This special luncheon with music, entertainment and a Christmas decorating demonstration is $15. First time guests pay $10 so bring a friend to enjoy the celebration. Reservations are requested by Monday December 4. Please call Lillie at 740-0098.
which serves the children of lowincome families in farm communities across Florida. Low income” does not mean low creativity or low Christmas joy,and Zayra and other children proved that in this year’s RCMA Christmas card designs. Their imaginations burst forth on Christmas cards that RCMA will sell from now until Friday, December 15. A catalog is available atwww.rcma.org, and cards may be ordered there at $15 per box, plus shipping. To order an exclusive card with a customized greeting and/or logo, contact Sonia Tighe at sonia.tighe@ffva.com or (321) 2145245. Proceeds help the nonprofit RCMA, based in Immokalee, operate child-care centers, charter schools and after-school programs in 21 Florida counties. In fact, each $15 sale of Christmas cards qualifies RCMA for $240 in matching funding from the state. From our children’s view, Christmas in rural Florida has its own unique flavor
and it’s contagious,” said Gayane Stepanian, RCMA’s executive director. “Life in rural Florida post-Irma is far from back to normal. These children always need more help than most folks can imagine, especially now.”
Enjoy Hannukah Festivities And More At Congregation Beth Shalom
Enjoy Hanukkah Music with Cantor Greenblatt as she serenades everyone with beautiful melodies on Sunday, December 3 at 4 p.m. Welcome the Sabbath on Friday evenings at 7:45 p.m. Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. On December 16 at 7 p.m., the Chanukah candles will be kindled as all together to celebrate the Festival of Lights, Consecration and Kabbalat HaSidddur. All are welcome. . Beyond I had a Little Dreidel Join Cantor Tanya Greenblatt on Sunday, December 10 at 4 p.m. as she once again engages in holiday song. Bring your family and enjoy. Bible and Bagels – On Saturday, December 16 at 10 a.m., join Rabbi Betsy Torop as she leads in a discussion of the Torah portions pertinent to the parsha. A light breakfast will be enjoyed by all. BYOB. All interested are welcome. Congregation Beth Shalom is located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Call for more information at 6816547.
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Zayra Alvarez, a fourth-grader, didn’t simply draw a Christmas tree; she drew a pyramid of them, each laden with a different Florida crop. That’s not surprising at RCMA,
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December 2017
Page 41
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
The Brandon Ballet To Present The 24th Annual Production Of The Nutcracker This December
Come see the fantastic performances by the highly talented dancers of the Brandon Ballet, including professionals, Sarah Parry and Marcus McCray, as they perform their 24th annual production of The Nutcracker. There will be four performances at Riverview High School this December.
The Brandon Ballet is excited to present its 24th annual production of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic, The Nutcracker. This year’s production highlights the magic and joy of the holiday season with original choreography by Doricha Sales, the new Artistic Director for the Brandon Ballet. There will be four performances at Riverview High School located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. On Saturday, December 9 performances will be held at 2 and 7:30 p.m. On Sunday, December 10 performances will be held at 2 and 5:30 p.m. The Nutcracker tells the story of a little girl named Clara who is given the gift of a wooden toy nutcracker by her Uncle Drosselmeyer. The magic happens when the toy soldier comes to life and takes Clara on a magical journey through an enchanted winter wonderland where she encounters dancing snowflakes, an elegant Snow Queen and the majestic Sugar Plum Fairy. This year, Sales’ choreography focuses on highlighting the unique talents of each dancer and is a culmination of involvement with The Nutcracker for 40
years. This season’s production is enhanced by elegant sets and costumes. The leading roles are being performed by a revolving cast. The Snow Queen and Snow King will be performed by the Brandon Ballet’s Sarah Parry and Mercedes Lozano with partners, Marcus McCray and guest artist, Luis Victor Santana. The Sugar Plum Fairy and Her Cavalier will be performed by guest artists, Elizabeth Martin and Jayson T. Douglass, Mercedes Lozano and Anton LaMon. “Local audiences were recently thrilled by the performances of LaMon and Martin as the leading roles in as well as Parry, McCray and Lozano as soloists. Their manifestation into pure classical ballet with elements of neoclassical as well as characterization adaptation will thrill audiences for this year’s performance of The Nutcracker,” said Sales. The two featured children’s roles, Clara and Fritz, will be performed by 13 year old Summer Thacker, a member of the Brandon Ballet’s Senior Company and Jeloni Parks, a 10 year old national title winner. Parks trains with Competitive Edge Dance Company in St. Petersburg. Sales said, “All of the professional dancers are either currently in college or are collegiate attendees. They represent the elite college dance programs of Indiana University, Point Park College and New World School of the Arts. It is an honor to feature and support dually successful professional dancers.” To get tickets, please visit www.tututix.com/brandonballet.
Plant City Entertainment Presents Christmas In Dixie, A Holiday Fundraiser the only available accommodations, the Lady Marmalade Bed and Breakfast. There, they meet the eccentric owner of the bed and breakfast and two Marines who are also stranded while on leave. The four are the first guests at the bed and breakYou will not want to miss the opportunity to see a stage reading of an origifast. While nal play, Christmas in Dixie. On Sunday, December 16 you can help support they show there, the arts and enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas tale with friends and family at Plant City Entertainment in Plant City. they are not Celebrate the holiafraid of armored vehiday season with a cles, hors d’oeuvre staged reading of hour featuring Elvis Christmas in Dixie at robes, pregnant armed Plant City robbers at The Waffle Entertainment on Barn, and helping out Saturday, December 16 The First Hope of The at 2 and 8 p.m. This is Last Chance Baptist a fundraiser for Plant Church with the threatCity Entertainment ened cancellation of its which is located at 101 Food Pantry Palooza. N. Thomas St. in historic downtown April Golombek, First Vice Plant City. President and Artistic Director of the This is a fun, family event that will theatre said, “This show is a wonderhelp support a great arts non-profit. ful Christmas story with lots of great Bring the whole family and enjoy the songs and great messages. We are reading, Carolers, Christmas cookies hoping this will become a tradition for and hot chocolate. The cost to attend Plant City Entertainment as a is $10 for adults and $8 for children fundraiser for us every Christmas.” 18 and under. If you have a family of There are 12 local residents cast four, you can get in for $25. You can in Christmas in Dixie. Golombek purchase tickets online at added, “Because it is a stage read, www.pceshows.com. there are minimal costumes, sets and Christmas in Dixie is an original the actors read from the scripts.” work written by Alicia Daniel Croxton Plant City Entertainment began as and directed by Tyler Hollis. Plant City Community Theatre in 1980 Christmas in Dixie is set in in Alabama and incorporated in 1994 as Plant City and features two pageant queens, Entertainment, Inc. The organization Ashley and Savannah who are strand- is governed by a 14-member voluned at the Birmingham Airport due to a teer Board of Managers who are dedisnowstorm. They have missed the cated to bringing high quality enterMiss Toyland Pageant in Atlanta and tainment to the community. Plant City will now have to enter the Miss Entertainment presents a minimum of Chicken Plucker Pageant in order to four stage shows per season. win enough money to pay for nursing For more information, please visit school. The two have taken refuge in www.pceshows.com.
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Page 42
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Brenda Wade Real Estate Partners With Businesses To Benefit Seeds Of Hope
By Barb Kern
really takes a village to support all that we do as an all-volunteer organization.” In September, Seeds of Hope led relief efforts for Alafia residents affected by flooding from Hurricane Irma. Those ongoing efforts highlighted the The Brenda Wade Real Estate Team donated $11,000 to Seeds commitment the chariof Hope from its annual Partners in Giving Campaign. ty has to helping local people –a commitment The Brenda Wade Real Estate Team shared by The Brenda Wade Team. and its business partners (All American Seeds of Hope is known for it’s annuTitle, All Bay Insurance, American Eagle al FishHawk Turkey Trot 5K fundraiser Mortgage, American Mortgage Services, and has been in the Buyer’s Choice Home Inspection, Brandon/Valrico/Lithia community for over Complete Choice Insurance, DR Horton, seven years and began with local resiFBI Inspection Group, Fifth Third Bank, dent Leda Eaton helping her then high Guaranteed Rate, First Home Bank, Hillsborough Title, Jake Moore Insurance, school students receive meaningful community service hours. Market Prime Mortgage, Old Republic The organization has grown as an Home Protection, Osprey Observer, organization to combat hunger in three RiteRug Flooring, The Rice Financial ways by providing: weekend backpacks Group, United Mutual Funding Corp and of food for school children, boxes of food Willums Home Services), joined together to families on Thursdays, and a weekly for the fifth annual ‘Partners in mobile pantry aimed at short term food Giving’event. Wade and her agents matched every dollar that was contributed relief. Eaton is proud of the impact the charity has had, “Before Hurricane Irma, by the partners during the campaign, so together they could have an impact in the we were a food relief organization. After Hurricane Irma, we added disaster relief community. “Our goal was to raise to our resume. It’s not something I ever $10,000,” said Wade. “And we were so happy to exceed that amount and donate would have planned, but am so thankful we were there. So many volunteers $11,000 to our local charity Seeds of stepped up. It was amazing to be a part Hope.” of the overwhelming groundswell of comSeeds of Hope president Leda munity support.” Eaton was amazed, “I was beyond excitFor more, visit www.sohopefl.org ed to hear the total amount raised! It
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Page 43
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Hidden Holiday Dangers in Your Home - Safety Tips to Safeguard Your Pets
By Michelle Caceres
The holiday season is here, and it is always a good idea to take a few simple, yet important precautions to protect our family members.
Seasonal Safety
Holiday paraphernalia can be extremely dangerous to cats and dogs. Some animals, especially puppies and kittens who are teething, love to chew, but electrical cords and tree lights can lead to serious burns and fatal shocks. It is best to cover or tack cords down to prevent this. A good rule of thumb is that if any part or all of your holiday decorations will fit in a pet's mouth, then it is potentially dangerous. Be sure to keep in mind tinsel, ornaments, rubber bands, balloons, strings, and ribbons out of your pet's reach. Read warnings on items like spray-on snow. Never put ribbons around an animal's neck or allow pets to play with plastic or foil wrappings. Inquisitive young animals like kittens can suffocate in plastic, and in older animals, it can get caught in their intestinal tracts.
Look Before You Cook
Be careful in your kitchen, too. Cookies, turkey trimmings, desserts, and other rich holiday foods can upset the gastrointestinal tracts of your pets and lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or even pancreatitis. Never give bones from turkey, chicken, pork, or fish to pets because
these bones can splinter and cause serious injury. Chocolate is a food that contains theobromine, a powerful stimulant that can be toxic to pets. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially dangerous. Alcoholic beverages can be toxic too, so watch out for pets trying to sneak a sip of your eggnog, beer or other beverages.
Beautiful, But Deadly
Many plants are toxic to pets, including Christmas rose, holly, mistletoe, philodendron, dieffenbachia, lilies, elephant ear, eucalyptus, spider plants, azalea, ivy, amaryllis, pyracantha, oleander, boxwood, Jerusalem cherry, and plant bulbs. Be sure to keep these poisonous plants out of your pet's reach.
Hot Topics
Watch out for hot irons, coffee pots, stove burners, potpourri, candles, and space heaters. Sometimes the pleasant aromas overcome common sense, and your pets may try to get too close and get burned. Other times they just want to feel warm, so if you have a fireplace, be sure to use a screen when you light a fire. As long as you use common sense and remember that pets-much like young children-are very curious, you will know what critical steps you should take to ensure that your family and your pets will spend a joyous-and-safe-holiday together.
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
Bloomingdale/FishHawk
December 2017
Volume 16, Issue12
Ph: 657-2418
Inside Pages Little Greek Fresh Grill Celebrates Third Anniversary
Tampa-based Little Greek Fresh Grill, a fast-casual Greek restaurant with an American influence recently celebrated its third anniversary. The owner/operator is Frank “Foti” Gianniosis. “Little Greek Fresh Grill has established a great home in the Valrico-Lithia area,” said Nick Vojnovic, Little Greek Fresh Grill president and local Valrico River Hills resident. Little Greek Fresh Grill emphasizes fresh Greek dishes created from generations of traditional family recipes, with its chicken items among the most popular. The Valrico location at 3474 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. is open Sunday to Thursday 11 a.m.9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and offers dine-in, take-out and catering. Call 685-0819 or visit littlegreekfreshgrill.com.
Holiday Open House At Counter Balance Therapy
Counter Balance Therapy is holding an Open House on Saturday, December 9 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 114 Pauls Dr. in Brandon. The center’s mission is to provide a quiet, peaceful space where like-minded people can come together, unwind and feel reju-
venated through a variety of massage modalities and Yoga, away from daily stresses. Ronda, Susan and the staff at Counter Balance Therapy would like to welcome the community, neighbors, clients and friends to come together for a Holiday Open House. Join in for a fun-filled day of complimentary food, refreshments, massages, and Yoga classes. Bring your mat or one will be supplied for you. Special package deals will be offered on this day only. For information call 325-1296.
Luxury Townhomes at Park Square Newest Project By Chadwell Homes
Chadwell Homes has been a trusted homebuilder in Brandon since 1987. Owner’s Mike and Jodi Chadwell are proud to announce their newest project, Townhomes at Park Square. Chadwell Homes broke ground on their luxury townhomes in Park Square which consists of two buildings, with square footage ranging from 2,345 to
46!55
2,868 sq. ft. on 5614 FishHawk Crossing Churchview, and Blvd. in Lithia the second build(in the Publix ing, with one Shopping remaining unit at Plaza). Taco Yolo 2,868 sq. ft. and is a modern a three car Mexican-style garage on restaurant that Bridgecrossing. fuses the The seventh unit mouth-watering taste of will be occupied Mexico with exciting new by Mike and Jodi Check out the new Starbucks in who are ready for no FishHawk, which is now open at specials that will rotate and be announced every week. maintenance living Fishhawk Blvd. and Bayberry Glen Dr. across from the “Taco Yolo will serve tradinow that they are FishHawk Sports Complex. Hours tional Mexican entrees with empty nesters. for the new Starbucks are Future homeMonday to Friday from 5 a.m.-10 fresh proteins and fresh prop.m. duce only. Even our queso owners of these luxudip will be made from fresh ingredients ry townhomes receive concierge service and all dishes will be cooked to fresh for in the Chadwell Homes showroom with each order.” said Rob Wolfenden, the most current materials on the market Managing Partner at Taco Yolo. “Our contoday and design services by renowned cept and food is built around the acronym Interior Designer Jodi Chadwell, who will Y.O.L.O. (you only live ensure that their home reflects once), which to us means their personal style. live well and eat fresh.” For more information, call The space it will occupy Chadwell Homes at 610-2946 was formerly a yogurt shop or visit ChadwellHomes.com. but is being renovated to Taco Yolo Tex-Mex include a bar an indoor dinRestaurant Announces ing room and an outdoor porch dining area. Guests Grand Opening Of First who dine in will be waited Location In Lithia on by servers and those wishing to pickResidents in FishHawk should prepare themselves for a new tex-mex flavor up their meal can call or order online. Call 906-9656 or visit http://tacoyin town. Taco Yolo has announced the olo.com. opening of a new restaurant, located at
Annual Holiday Sweepstakes Highlights Best Of ShopBy Local Marie Gilmore be very excited to receive all of these great items from the businesses in our community,” said Kerrie Hoening, Advertising Sales Manager. “Last year was the first time we have ever done a program like this in the paper and we e z d Pri are excited to the GranThings e m a c e , FL b Our Favorite ia h it share some of L f . o rs l is family o p L o ca al retaile the treasures from The Dav of the 2016 Sh zes from 25 loc winners pstakes with pri our local small businesses with our Swee readers.” Bridget Jenkins Wilson, owner of Cardinal Roofing and a member of his holiday season, the Osprey the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Observer is once again partnering Commerce said the Chamber is with local businesses to highlight the also focused on encouraging local best of Shop Local gift giving. shopping this holiday season and in The campaign is called, A Few fact has a Shop Local Holiday Expo of Our Favorite Things and we have coming up on Saturday, December gone to the best of our local busi9, 9 a.m.-12 Noon at Park Square in nesses and asked them to give us FishHawk Ranch. ideas of a few of the top items “Anything we can do to keep available this holiday season. our local businesses in the spotlight From now until mid-December, is great for our community,” she we will be collecting Our Favorite said. “And, this is a great opportuniThings all throughout the communi- ty for Osprey Observer readers to ty and putting them together in have a chance to win an amazing one giant gift basket that will be holiday gift.” given out in a Sweepstakes for our Already gathered this season, readers. gifts include a Ladies Seiko Watch “We have so many great items from McAuley’s Fine Jewelry valued coming in and someone is going to at $350 and a custom outdoor fire
T
pit from Outdoor Impressions valued at $850. A pure Silver Christmas Coin from Corbin’s Coins valued at $30, DayDreams Day Spa Journey To Tranquility valued at $135, custom framing certificates from FastFrame, a Swarovski Crystal necklace from TMarie’s Boutique and a ukulele from Music Showcase, just to name a few of the great treasures already gathered together. Last year, more than 450 residents entered the Sweepstakes
and the Grand Prize, valued at more than $3,500, was awarded just before Christmas to FishHawk resident Tim Davis. To enter this year, email Sweepstakes to contest@ospreyobserver.com or fill out the entry form and send in by mail, fax or email. Good luck and thank you for shopping local! No purchase or contribution is necessary to enter and contest is subject to all rules & regulations as required by the State of Florida.
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Holiday Coin Collections, A Daydreams Day Spa Escape & New Sporting Goods a gift card to Daydreams. Corbin’s Stamp & Coin Is Your With many different Source For Treasured types of spa Family Heirlooms packages to If you are looking for the choose from perfect gift - maybe for a famincluding ily with a new baby or to celmassage ebrate a momentous occatherapy, sion, a special coin may be body, therathe perfect keepsake? Start a py, skin car therapy, nail new family tradition by comand pedicure treatmemorating the Christmas ments, waxings & season each year. Holiday brows, airbrush tanning, coin collections are the permaternity fect way. One ounce pure silservices, ver coins are available for services for $29.95 in a gift box or also as men and for an ornament teens and that can be more, there is displayed. something for Corbin’s everyone. The Coins is shop in located at Daydreams also offers 209 N. Kings Ave. in Brandon and is open Monday to Gift Basket spa products which would also make Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 Item: 1 oz. great gifts. Pevonia p.m. and Saturday from 9 Pure Silver Skin Care products a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas are offered. Coin Gift certificates are available Journey To Tranquility At Value: $30 at the Spa, located at 658 Oakfield DayDreams Day Spa With all the stress the holiDr. in Brandon or online at www.daydays bring, what better gift for somedreamsdayspa.com. one (or yourself) is to escape for a few A second DayDreams location is hours to DayDreams Day Spa & Bath in Lakeland at 1463 Town Center Dr. Shop. You can make that possible with For more information on this location,
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Enhance Your Photos At Fast Frame For The
Perfect Holiday Gift Did you take a special picture this year while you spent time with your family, maybe on vacation or at a special event? Surprise your family this year with a wonderful family picture specially framed to order commemorating this special shared time. Once you have that beautiful photo, a frame becomes part of the bigger picture, so it’s imporGift Basket Item: tant to make sure Tranquility Journey in that it brings out Spa - 95 minute mas- the photo in just sage, hand therapy the right way. and hot stone foot When cusmassage. tomers bring in Value: $135 their personal items and they are not sure about how to decorate their art,
By Michelle Colesanti
Fast Frame owner Alex Roche helps to educate them on how to enhance their item through framing. He offers competitive pricing and has been assisting customers with frames for more than 28 years. Fast Frame also offers oil paint stretches, shadow boxes, needle points, restoration and repairs and cor-
porate art. Fast Frame has been a part of the community Gift Basket for 15 years. Item: Two $40 For more Gift Cards for information, Framing visit www.fastValue: $80 frame.com or call Roche at 655-6400. Fast Frame is located at 6128 Winthrop Town Center Ave. in Riverview. Hours of operation are Sunday and Monday by appointment only with 24-hour notice and Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
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Rolling Pin Cooking Class Gift Certificate, TMarie’s Special Gifts & Musical Music Showcase It is also Brandon’s Big Green ‘Eggheadquarters,’ the ultimate cooking experience. Rolling Pin Emporium is open for private events too. Gift cards are also available. Rolling Pin is located at 2080 Gift Basket Item: Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Gift Bundle of Items Call 653-2418 or visit & Cooking Class http://rollingpinonline.com/ Certificates for more information.
Great Gift Ideas And Classes Help Make Rolling Pin A Great Stop For Holiday Gift Needs If you are stuck coming up with creative gift ideas, make a visit to Rolling Pin and to find something for every chef in your life. Rolling Pin offers a gourmet retail store and cooking classValue: $547 ($447 es. Retail; $100 Stop by and browse Find Your Perfect the extensive collection of Cooking Classes) Holiday Ensemble At classic and unique kitchenTMaries Fashion & Gifts Boutique ware. You will find everything TMaries Fashion & Gifts from barware, bakeware, aprons, Boutique is towels & mitts, coffees & teas, cookyour one stop ware, electrics, gadgets, gifts for entertaining, knives & cutting boards, shop for all of your favorite outdoor cooking and more. Enjoy fashion outfits shopping in the specialty food and and acceswine departments. There are many great reasons to sories for the attend Rolling Pin’s cooking classes - upcoming holiday season. It offers a wide variety whether you enjoy cooking – or just of casual fashions, resort wear, plus eating - from great date nights to size fashions, swim suits and cover learning about new foods, this is a ups, accessories, shoes, gifts, formal great gift idea anyone would be dresses, and prom/homecoming excited to receive.
dresses, to help you define your own unique style. While you are in there shopping for those party clothes, you will also find many accessories including jewelry that would also make great gifts for friends and family members. Some brands available at TMaries include Tribal, Elan, Catherine Barclay, Julian Chang, French Dressing Jeans
Gift Basket Item:
30 inch 14K Gold Plated Chain and Statement Necklace with Swarovski Crystal Cabana Life. Gift Encrusted Rose Medallion and Large White Seashell Pearl. Certificates are also Value: $117 available. T. Marie’s Fashion & Gift Boutique is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 Noon-5 p.m. It is located at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more information, call 530-0922. Visit www.TMariesfashions.com.
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A Few Of Your Favorite Things Can Be Found At Music Showcase Music is the international language that is understood and enjoyed by all. Share your love of music by offering voice or instrument lessons to your favorite student. Instrument rentals start at $10 (if you don’t want to make a purchase). If you sign up online, the instrument will be delivered to your school. All of your music needs can be found at Music Showcase, which offers competitive pricing on sheet music and books. There is an in-house repair shop, and private and group lessons are offered.
LC’s Cafe Holiday Catering, McAuley Fine Jewelry Seiko Watch & Feely Athletics Is your child interested in musical theatre, acting, or maybe photography? Sign them up at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-5998 or visit MusicShowcaseOnline.com and FAOPA.org.
home where LC’s Café will host with a waiter and attendant in your kitchen. Hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday Brunch from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. It is closed on Sunday and Gift Basket Monday. Item: Ukelele LC’s Café is locatand Gift Card ed near Divine Value: $70 Spa at 1602 Designs (Ukelele $50 Oakfield Dr. #103 in and Gift Card Enjoy Home-Style Latin Brandon. Call 526-9395 $20) Inspired Holiday Catering or email From LC’s Cafe lcsupperclub@gmail.com. Enjoy simple, sweet and savory home style cooked, McAuley Fine Jewelry Is A Gem Latin inspired In The Community Gift Basket foods. LC’s This season design something Item: Catering Café will be uniquely ‘you’ to surprise your speglad to cater Gift Certificate cial someone. your upcomValue: $50 McAuley Fine ing holiday Jewelry (located in (with $250 party either at the former Martin’s order) your work office Jewelers) will help or home. The staff is flexiyou plan your cusble in helping you to enjoy tom made piece of perfect meals to help celJewelry. Jewelry ebrate the season. repairs are also Enjoy holiday events done on premises. in the privacy of your own McCauley Fine
By Michelle Colesanti
Whether a one-on-one instruction on a Saturday or a week long camp or combine featuring hundreds of youths, Feely is nationally known for teaching the fundamentals and techniques of kicking and punting. To date, roughly 15 of Feely’s Gift Basket students have played profesItem: Seiko sional football. His most Ladies Watch notable pupil is son Jay Feely, Value: $350 a Jesuit High grad who went on to play 16 years in the professional ranks, including 14 in the Jewelry is NFL. “I know there’s nobody who’s located done more in the state of Florida to on help kids get better in the last 15 Oakfield Drive, in the Atlantic Village Plaza, Kings Ave. & Oakfield years from a kicking and punting standpoint,” Jay Feely said of his Dr. father. It is open from Tuesday to If your child is interested in Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and sports, help them achieve their Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. dream. Call 205-5008 or email Call 689-8124 or visit Tom@FeelyAthletics.com. www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com. Gift Basket Visit www.feelykicking.com Item: Triplex for more information.
Feely Athletics Will Take Your Budding Athlete To Stealth Tee The Next Level Value: $65 Jesuit and national kicking coach Tom Feely has coached hundreds, perhaps thousands of youths in various sports, but he is known especially for his work in football.
Custom Firepit From Outdoor Impressions & Birthday Party Celebration At The Alley Outdoor Impressions Will Help You Create The Perfect Outdoor Space To Enjoy YearRound With the beautiful weather that we enjoy year-round, it makes sense to have an outdoor kitchen area specially created for you. The designers at Outdoor Impressions specialize in customizing the details of your outdoor kitchen to your specific needs and taste; everything from the location of appliances in the outdoor kitchen build, to the materials and color schemes that best compliment your home and outdoor living space. It also specializes in paver driveways, patios, walkways, entryways, pergolas, arbors, water features, fire pits, fire places and design services.
A different kind of gift idea for friends or family could be Outdoor Impression’s 30 inch Munich fire pit. Whether roasting marshmallows or sipping wine, memories are
Gift Basket
sure to be Item: created Outdoor Fire year after Pit year with Value: $800 this great feature added to any outdoor living space. Outdoor Impressions is located at 10020 Carr Rd. in Riverview. Call 6846817 for more information. It is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Family Fun Awaits At The Alley At
Southshore With over 42,000 sq. ft. of fun, the Alley should be your first choice in family entertainment during the holidays. There are 32 bowling
Locally Owned and Operated Perfect for Kitchen Tools and Cooking Classes
Ever ything Cooking and Entertaining Gourmet Foods and Boutique Wines Cooking Classes, Private Parties & Corporate Events
Brandon’s Big Green “EggQuarters”
LEARN • COOK • ENTERTAIN 813-653-2418 2080 Badlands Dr. Brandon, Fl 33511 Sun 11-6, Mon-Tue 10-6, Wed-Sat 10-9
www.rollingpinonline.com "#1 Rated Cooking Classes & Kitchen Store"
By Michelle Colesanti
lanes along with a Hurricane Have fun at Route 66 Mini Alley 8 Lane Executive Bowling, Tin Pan Alley Arcade Gift Basket Suite. But bowling is and Billiards too. Stuff your only the beginning of kid’s stockings with passes Item: Birthday all the fun. While to go bowling. Party For Up there, you can also The Alley is open To 12 People enjoy Alley Kat’s Pub to Thursday from 9 Sunday Value: & Grill or Alley Scoops a.m.-12 Midnight and Friday $129.99 Ice Cream if you just and Saturday from 9 a.m.want a snack. If you want 2:30 a.m. It is located at 10221 to host a private holiday party, Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Call there is a private space for that 672-8353 or visit http://thealleyatpurpose. Professional catering is southshore.com. on-site.
Christmas C ins 1oz Pure Silver
$29.95
each
Gift Boxed or Ornaments
CORBIN’S
Stamp & Coin 209 N. Kings Ave. Brandon, Florida 33510
813-651-3266 corbincoin@verizon.net
Mon-Fri 9am - 4pm
Sat 9am - 1pm
*Silver prices subject to change.
Backyard Birdseed Squirrel Buster, Jewelry In A Cinch & Daniella’s Mobile Massage Nature Lovers Will Delight In Gifts From Backyard Birdseed Backyard Birdseed is your go-to place for your friends and family who enjoy watching nature close up. It carries a wide array of products to increase backyard (and front yard) Gift Basket enjoyment for Item: Squirrel children, famiBuster lies, and birders Value: $50 of all ages. Premium birdseed, bird baths, bird and bat houses, hummingbird feeders and patio and garden décor are all available. In case you do not know what the perfect gift would be for your nature lover, gift certificates are also available. Backyard Birdseed is located at 3642 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. (next to Car Wash on the Greens) in Valrico. It is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and closed Sundays. Call 8162473 or visit www.backyardbirdseed.com.
Leaving Jewelry Frustration Behind Is A Cinch Cinch Clasp offers you the most valuable piece of jewelry you will ever own. We have all struggled with putting on or taking off necklaces, bracelets and or anklets. Those little clasps can be so hard to put on and take off. If you have longer nails or arthritis, these little clasps can be next to impossible to maneuver. Cinch Clasp lets you put on or take off any necklace, chain, bracelet in two seconds or less every time. Cinch Clasp is very secure and can handle multiple chains, so you can put on or take off all at the same time. Cinch Clasp would make a great gift to accompany a piece of jewelry you are giving someone dear to you or just on its own for someone who already has a lot of jewelry. Cinch Clasp comes in three different sizes and offers many different finishes. The Cinch Clasp was invented by local resident,
Give The Gift of
Fun
This Holiday Season!
Bowling! Games! Food! Drinks!* MAKES A GREAT GIFT!
BUY $25 Get $5 FREE BUY $50 Get $10 FREE BUY $100 Get $25 FREE *Not to be used in the Pro Shop
813-672-8353 • 10221 Big Bend Rd, Riverview, FL
www.thealleyatsouthshore.com Sunday - Thursday 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM | Friday - Saturday 9:00 AM - 2:30 AM
Maria Gibbs. Visit celestialclasp.com or 352-9087.
By Michelle Colesanti
Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, Pre-natal and Sports Massage
Be Happy Boutique Give A Gift Of Mobile Offers Unique Gifts In Convenient, Mobile Massage Relaxation A Friendly with Flexible Scheduling Atmosphere Daniella's Mobile P Massage offers Deep Tissue, Be Happy Boutique Gift Basket Neuromuscular, offers unique selections Item: One Hour of apparel, shoes, Prenatal and Free Massage Sports Massage. accessories, gifts, Value: $65 Her goal is to prohome décor and more. vide pain and stress There is something for relief thru therapeutic everyone’s taste and budget. massage all in the A great gift idea is a Sleep Ensemble, convenience of your which includes a set of ‘Sleep with home. She is a proDogs’ organic cotton pajamas with cell fessional, licensed phone pocket and Massage Therapist matching eye and has 15 years of Gift Basket mask, a soft Gift Certificate experience as well as Item: Cinch Sleep organic pillow a background in Clasp Ensemble— case that Value: $150 Physical Therapy. Value: $100 says “Always Daniella offers flexiKiss Me ble scheduling. Goodnight” and To schedule an a Sphynx Portable Razor, a 3 in 1 appointment or to get gift certificates, which portable shaving razor for the girl who make great holiday is on the go. Never miss out because gifts, call 323-4901or of a missed spot; go to Facebook at Be email Happy Boutique to see a video of how dveten@gmail.com. this razor works. Be Happy Boutique is Visit on Facebook at located at 11369 Big Bend Rd. in Daniella’s Mobile Riverview. Call 677-2300 or visit Massage. www.BeHappyBoutique.com.
Big Green Egg Spices At Pinch A Penny, Bliss Costmetics, Sweet Treats & Pet Needs FishHawk Pinch-APenny Has Egg-cellent Christmas Ideas For your cooking enthusiast, FishHawk Pinch-A-Penny has got you covered. The 4-1 Big Green Egg grills, Gift Basket roasts, bakes and Item:A collection smokes a variety of of Big Green Egg food from desserts to Sauces & Spices burgers. Pinch-AValue: $110 Penny has all the accessories you need along with sauces and seasonings to boot. Now through Dec 31, the store is having a 15 percent sale on all Big Green Egg grills and accessories. Pinch-a-Penny is located across from Newsome High School at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. Call 655-3700. Bliss Permanent Cosmetics Enhance Your Natural Beauty With No Need To Reapply How would you like to look your best at all times? Bliss Permanent Cosmetics specializes in permanent makeup—a form of cosmetic tattooing used to enhance your facial features. Permanent makeup brings out your natural beauty, and you never need to worry about smudges or reapplying. In addition to permanent makeup the office offers micro needling, eyelash extensions, lash lifts and brow artistry.
By Michelle Colesanti
place to find the perfect gift. day gift baskets such as the Christmas The store is smaller by choice and the Tree Bouquet or the traditional Delicious Celebration® bouquet recipe, shelves are stocked with just the right products specifically chosen to help get honeydew, cantaloupe, strawberries, you in and out and get home happy. It and grapes has the largest selection of scattered natural, holistic and throughout a human grade foods, along beautiful Bliss Permanent Cosmetics recently with a friendly knowledgearrangement to launched its new eyebrow makeup prodable team to help you with create an eyeucts on November 1. all your pet’s needs. catching and To view descriptions and photos of There is a self-service dog wow-worthy the services offered, visit wash - you wash your pet, they Gift Certificate clean up the mess. You can effect. BlissologieBeauty.com. Online appointfor a Edible Arrangements can ment booking is also available. For more also join the Dirty Dog Wash Chocolate be found locally in the information, call 523-0435. The office is Club for half the price of a reguDipped Fruit lar wash and don’t forget its Nail located at 101 Flamingo Dr. Suite E in Shoppes at Lithia, located at Box: $35 Trim Club too. You can also find Apollo Beach. 3455 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico (571-7200), and also everything you need for your small Tasteful Gifts at 10273 Big Bend Rd. in pets, bird, fish and reptiles. From Edible Riverview (Bell Plaza)(672-6111) Every other Sunday a pet shot clinic is Arrangements held from 1-2:30 p.m. Pet Supplies Plus or order online at www.ediMake Great is located in the Valrico Commons Plaza blearrangements.com. Holiday Treats at 1937 E. S.R. 60 in Brandon (at Valrico What better Rd.). It is open Monday-Saturday from 9 Shop Pet Supplies Plus Gift Basket way to say you This Holiday Season a.m.-9 p.m. and Saturday Bliss from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For Complimentary For All Your Pet Gift Basket more information, call Flawless Brow or Needs Holiday gift shopping is Item: Glo Fish 540-0645. Deluxe Brow not just for your two Aquarium Treatment legged famValue: $35 Value: $50 care than with a healthy and tasteful gift ily and friends. of fresh fruit. With many assortments Your pets will enjoy receiving some new toys from Edible Arrangements, you will find and snacks and Pets something for everyone on your gift list. Supply Plus is the perfect Choose from many beautiful holi-
Newly Patented Product Invented by a Local Resident!
F F OL Y % 25 ALELR W JE
SHOP
Solve Your Jewelry Problems this Holiday Season For more info visit: celestialclasp.com or call Maria 813-352-9087
1026 Bloomingdale Avenue • Valrico (Located in the Plaza Bella)
813-324-8946
www.TheSaltGrotto.com
Salt...a relaxing natural, drug-free therapy Natural Relief From:
Sinusitis • Allergies • Bronchitis • Congestion & Cough Asthma • And Much More! ALSO OFFERING MASSAGE & INFRARED SAUNA
813-530-0922 www.TMariesFashions.com 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd Valrico (at Bloomingdale) HOURS: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm | Sunday 10am-5pm
Professional Photography, Breathe Easy & Don’t Forget The Pets This Holiday ure for a lifetime. The Studio specializes in showing the client how beautiful they really are, and of their Boutique Style Studio Offers Glamour Makeover Gift Basket transformation with a before and after photo. The holidays are a perfect time Item: Gift This will also make a to give yourself a gift of pamCertificate great gift for the special pering, along with a full glamour makeover. As you glow from Value: $50 woman in your life. Call Urioste at 784-1845 to book your special day, the photos taken a session. will make a great gift to your family or special someone. Don’t Forget Your Pet’s In The Amber Urioste, the owner and phoHoliday Celebrations tographer behind AU Professional Your pets are part of the family and Photography, brought this boutique you don’t want style studio to the area, and specialthem to izes in glamour, Gift Basket miss out boudoir and high Item: Pet on the school senior portraits. Treat Basket holiday Your day of pampering will include a profesValue: $100 celebrations. sional hair and makeup Kim’s Natural artist, and to experiPet Foods has ence what it is like to everything you be a model for the day. need to give your Receive the right pets a happy, amount of love and healthy life and attention, with guidance what better time to in posing so you end check out some up with images that new food and they will love and treas-
treats to keep them as healthy and happy as possible. Specializing in holistic foods made from real ingredients like meat, fish, and healthful vegetables; not byproducts, it offers a great selection of all natural foods as well as unique natural chews and treats, including a frozen section featuring all natural raw food diets. All foods are American made, corn, wheat, soy, and gluten free. You will
By Michelle Colesanti
find natural remedies for worms, fleas and ticks. Kim’s also offers a wide variety of toys, dog and cat bedding, apparel and supplies. Kim’s Natural Pet Foods is located at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico (next to Subway). For more information, call 684-3663 or visit kimsnaturalpetfoods.com.
3642 Lithia Pinecrest Rd (next to CarWash on the Greens)
813-816-BIRD (2473)
www.BackyardBirdseed.com BackyardBirdseed@gmail.com
Backyard Birdseed
Great Gift Ideas for Everyone On Your List! Premium Birdseed • Bird Baths
Bird & Bat Houses • Hummingbird Feeders Patio & Garden Decor
Gift Certifificcates Available! Mondays (closed) | T thru F - noon to 6pm | Sat & Sun - 10am to 4pm
Give The Gift Of Health With Campo Y Membership, Craft Beer At Bootleggers Give The Gift Of Health At Campo Y Gift Basket The start of a New Year holds a lot of promise. 3 Month Family Everyone makes resolutions Membership to eat healthier and to exercise more. This year, it is time Value: $246 to do something about it. Give a gift of a Campo Y membership to someone you care about to help them to live their healthiest lives. Campo Y offers many exercise Gift Ideas For Craft Beer Lovers options for all ages and body types such At Bootleggers Brewworx as Yoga, cycling, Pilates, aerobics and For your craft beer, cider or wine much more. lovers, Bootleggers Brewworx is the ultiMany programs and camps are mate place to be. Bootleggers Brewworx offered for the family including child care sells supplies to make custom beer, wine, while you work out. There are a lot of cider and mead. sports opportunities for The new brewthe kids such as basketon-premise feaball, volleyball and ture allows cusmore. tomers to create The local Campo Y their own libais truly a part of our tions at the facilicommunity so make it a ty. All the equippart of your family. ment you’ll need Campo Y is located at to mix, brew, fer3414 Culbreath Rd. in Gift Basket ment, rack, Valrico. It is open bottle or Monday to Friday from 5 Item: $50 Gift keg your a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday Certificate; finished from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and Bottle of Wine product is Sunday from 12 Noon-6 provided. p.m. and Come For more information, Value: $70 check it out. call 684-1371. Visit There are also www.tampaymca.org/locasoda kits available too so tions/campo.
that the kids can get involved making their own soft drinks. Bootleggers Brewworx is located at 650 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, visit www.brewworx.com or call 6439463.
New In Brandon, The Mill Adds Top-Notch Dining Experience The Mill in Brandon recently opened in Brandon to the excitement
Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, Pre-natal and Sports Massage Convenient, Mobile Massage with Flexible Scheduling Professional, Licensed Massage Therapist with 15 years of experience and a background in Physical Therapy
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
(813) 323-4901
IS IT A GRILL, AN OVEN, OR A SMOKER?
Gift Certificates
... the Perfect Gift for ANYONE on your list!
dveten@gmail.com www.facebook.com/DaniellasMobileMassage
THE BIG GREEN EGG THE MOST VERSATILE COOKING DEVICE EVER...
By Michelle Colesanti
of those already familiar with the restaurant in St. Petersburg which first opened its doors in 2015. The Brandon location at 109 W. Bloomingdale Ave. is its second one and the first on this side of the Bay. The Mill is the type of place to enjoy special occasions or celebrations with your friends and family. The menu consists of creative southerninfluenced dishes. This holiday season why not cele-
License #39122
ÂŽ
YES
BIG SALE for all
Big Green Egg
Grills & Accessories
15% OFF
ft ur i G Yo t a on st! e e r G Anyoniday Li
Offer expires 12/31/17
Lithia/FishHawk 16715 FishHawk Blvd.
for Hol
813-655-3700
(Across from Newsome High School)
Visit our website at WWW.PINCHAPENNY.COM
Lic# CPC1458117
Dine Out At The MILL And Visit The Salt Grotto To Breath Easy This Holiday Season tory and skin ailments. Give the gift of good health to your loved ones. There are both adult and children’s Salt Room Therapy. Gift Basket Other gift ideas Item: Gift include unique Card salt related gifts including Himalayan Salt Value: $50 Lamps, cooking stones, seasonings bath salts and soaps. The Salt Grotto is located in Plaza Bella Shopping Center, 1026 Bloomingdale Ave. in Salt Grotto Valrico. Basket & Gift Call 324-8946 or visit Certificates http://thesaltgrotto.com
brate by trying something new. Gift cards are also a great idea. The hours are Sunday 10 a.m.-9 p.m., and Tuesday through Saturday from 4-10 p.m. It is closed on Monday. To make a reservation, call 603-8786 or visit http://themillrestaurants.com/brandon/.
Visit The Salt Grotto And Breathe Easier This Holiday Season
Enter To Win!
By Michelle Colesanti
Why would you like to win the Favorite Things Holiday Sweepstakes?
Value: $58
Breathe easier this holiday season. Relax in luxury at The Salt Grotto. Dig your toes into the sand like salt and fill your lungs with safe, naturally salty air. With each breath, inhale microparticles that holistically address respira-
Name: Address: Phone: Email: Community: Email to win at contest@ospreyobserver.com, fax to 657-4469 or mail to 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511.
6128 Winthrop Town Center Ave.
Riverview
(813) 655-6400 ↑1820s Photo &
Autographed Letters
→Wedding Gift from
Grandmother to Grandson
Oil Paint Stretches Shadow Boxes Needle Points Restoration & Repairs Corporate Art 15 Years In The Area
Page 56
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
At Christmas my heart is so full! I'm reflecting on blessings of family, friends and people I love. I hope you enjoy the season and are surrounded by people you love!
Merry Christmas! Brenda & The Team
Signature Realty Associates
Top Producer 2002 - 2017
BRENDA (813) 924-8677 • OFFICE (813) 655-5333 ! EW E N RIC P
GORGEOUS WESTBAY "VENEZIA" HOME IN GATED FISHHAWK PRESERVE! 5/5.5/3 + office + bonus + media + pool/spa home that would suit the most discerning buyer! Almost 6,500 sqft of absolute luxury awaits! Call for your personal tour or take a look at my website! $1,590,000
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! $585,000
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
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! $619,000
! G EWIN N T S LI
WONDERFUL ASHTON WOODS HOME IN FISHHAWK WEST! 4/2.5/2 + bonus home that will charm you from the start! Wood floors, crown, neutral paint, French doors & upgraded light fixtures! Chef's kitchen with raised panel wood cabinets, granite counters & stainless appliances! $310,000
! G EWIN N T S LI
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! $310,000
BEAUTIFUL HOME IN EGRET VILLAGE IN FISHHAWK! 3/2.5/2 + office + bonus home that has the best lot in the neighborhood with pond in the back & no neighbors on one side! Wood floors, neutral paint palette, kitchen with espresso cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! Pavered patio overlooking pond! $347,000
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 & master bath with beautiful white cabinets! $504,900
! G EWIN N T S LI
STUNNING HOME IN GUARD GATED RIVER HILLS! Welcome to this impressive 4/3.5/3 + office + pool/spa home located on a double fairway! Impressive curb appeal with circular drive & tile roof! Interiors features include plantation shutters, French doors, tray ceilings, fireplace & sitting area in master! $500,000
STUNNING WESTBAY "TOSCANA" HOME ON 0.55 ACRE LOT IN GATED FISHHAWK PRESERVE! 6/4.5/3 + office + bonus + media + pool/spa home that is a one of a kind! No detail has been overlooked either inside or out! Take a look at my website for more information & photos! Perfect! $1,395,000
DAVID WEEKLEY "REDWING" HOME THAT SHOWS LIKE A DREAM! 4/3.5/2 + bonus home offers plantation shutters, Pergo flooring, interior stone accents & crown! Kitchen offers 42" espresso cabinets with crown, granite & stainless appliances! Screened & pavered patio & built-in fire-pit! $345,000 ! G EWIN N T S LI
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
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
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
DROP DEAD GORGEOUS DAVID WEEKLEY "GRANADA" HOME ON CONSERVATION LOT IN FISHHAWK WEST! 4/3.5/3 + office home with almost 3,000 sqft! Upgrades galore incl. tile roof, plantation shutters, molding, surround sound & serene master suite! Chef's kitchen with all the bells & whistles! $509,900
BRENDA@BRENDAWADE.COM • WWW.BRENDAWADE.COM