Osprey Observer 2018-09 Bloomingdale/FishHawk

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Bloomingdale/FishHawk 36

September 2018 Volume 17, Issue 9 Ph: 657-2418

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Bloomingdale Square Redevelopment Kids Get New Backpacks At The Annual Seeds Of Hope Backpack Distribution Underway, Publix Move Confirmed By Sammie Green By Sharon Still

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Redevelopment is set to kick off in September at Bloomingdale Square, located on the southwest corner of Bloomingdale Ave. and Bell Shoals Rd. Phase One, according to leasing agent Marc Elias, will consist of repurposing the old Wal-Mart space as well as constructing a 15,000 sq. ft. strip center on an outparcel adjacent to Bloomingdale Ave. The long vacant Wal-Mart space will be home to a 48,000 sq. ft. Publix and Home Centric, a home goods store owned By Beall’s that will occupy 15,000 sq. ft. The existing Publix will keep its doors open until the day the new Publix opens. “There will be no down time for Publix,” reported Elias. While there is no announcement of a prospective tenant for the nearly 40,000 sq. ft. space that Publix will vacate, Elias said that they continue to add tenants to the inline space and more new additions will be coming soon. “We are committed to delivering a valuable, Class A asset that is comple-

mentary to the neighborhood,” he said. Construction on the new, 15,000 sq. ft. strip center also is set to begin in September. Located along the entrance roadway closest to McDonald’s, the center will house a First Watch restaurant with a patio, GNC, Banfield Pet Hospital and Chicken Salad Chick. “We have two others close to signing and that will complete the out parcel,” Elias commented. He explained that construction on space previously occupied by Walmart as well as the strip center should be complete in May or June of 2019 and then turned over to the tenants with an anticipated September or October 2019 opening for the stores. Space available ranges from 12036538 sq. ft. and includes a 6200 sq. ft. restaurant with a patio. “We have been waiting to hear what would be taking Walmart’s place,” said Bloomingdale resident Tony D’Ambrosio. “We were hoping for an ALDI and could use some new restaurants.” “We are hoping to fill the spaces with businesses that the neighbors want,” said Elias. For leasing information, contact Elias at 813-664-4823 or visit www.regencycenters.com.

Students Eva On August 2, Gutierrez, Naomi Seeds of Hope Boerner and Kaitlin hosted its second Francavilla all annual back-toagreed Seeds of school backpack Hope provides distribution to something other local families in food banks don’t need. At the because you get to event, over 200 see the people and backpacks filled their impact. These with school supstudents become plies were distribfamiliar with the uted to kids getfamilies coming to ting ready to go the bank and learn back to school. their stories, making Papa John’s pizza for an impactful volalso attended the event and donatunteer experience. ed 35 pizzas for Seeds of Hope the families to hosts different enjoy. events throughout Newsome the community, The leader of the backpack distribution, student Morgan including Soup for Morgan Gardner, poses with some of the Gardner was the kids after they received their backpacks. the Soul, FishHawk leader of the backpack distribution. “I Turkey Trot and the Color Your Egg help regularly with Seeds of Hope and Run. For more information about the have gotten to know the families and organization and volunteering, visit its the kids. This kind of stuff is so helpful website, sohopfl.org. To stay up to date for them and that’s why I wanted to on Seeds of Hope events and donation lead this event,” Gardner said. needs, visit its Facebook page, Seeds President of Seeds of Hope Leda of Hope Inc. Eaton explained the goal of their organization is to listen to what the people need and help where it is needed. “We meet the need of the community we serve. We are not people who come to just throw things at people. If 40 they did not need backpacks, we would not be here doing backpacks,” Eaton HEROES 9/11 RUN .............................PG 4 said. Along with distributing over 200 NEW CALENDAR OF EVENTS..............PG 5 backpacks, 132 boxes of food were also given to families to take home. HOA HOT TOPICS ...............................PG 7 Seeds of Hope is a food bank EIGHTH GRADE CONTEST ..................PG 8 organization created eight years ago with a mission to ‘provide help to local CRISIS HOTLINE 2‐1‐1.......................PG 11 people in need and meaningful comSPECIAL FORCES SCHOLARSHIPS .....PG 15 munity service hours for students.’ Many students from the local schools SPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 32‐33 volunteer with Seeds of Hope and see CHALKLINES .....................................PG 37 first-hand their impact on people.

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Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) deputies Breanna Rodriguez and Clifford Fletcher hosted the second Coffee with a Cop event of the year at Moreno Bakery. Kathi Hayes Hillsborough County PTA Vice President Leadership and Kate Quesada Osprey Observer News Reporter were among the commmunity members in attendance. See Story On Page 4.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9


September 2018

Bloomingdale Rajun’ Bull Band Marches Towards Performances Abroad

By Kelly Ford

Even before the new school year was underway, the band room and music hallway of Bloomingdale High School buzzed with activity as the band’s students, par-

Local Schools Start New Year With Security Upgrade

By Kate Quesada

Many local schools saw changes in security policies when students headed back to their classrooms last month. In addition to the presence of

ent volunteers and Director prepared for the new marching band season. The percussion section and Crimson Guard practiced, students were fitted for uniforms, and student leaders hosted the incoming freshmen at band camp. All were getting ready for the new school year and the excitement of preparing for this year’s halftime show featuring the music of The Incredibles 2. The Rajun’ Bulls will be looking to extend their 31-year streak of ‘Superior’ ratings at their district Marching Music Performance Assessment. This year, however, the football field will not be the only performance venue for the Rajun’ Bull Band; the ensemble has been invited to perform in Vienna, Austria and Prague, Czechia in March of 2019. Performing abroad is a distinct honor for these music students. “Traveling to foreign countries in such musically historical places like Vienna and Prague is an extension of the classroom. It creates a lifetime of memories and learning,” said Jon Sever, Director of Bands at Bloomingdale.

Parents of students who have participated in such trips agree with Sever’s assessment. Susan Maley’s two children have traveled with the Bloomingdale music programs. Maley said the band trips are trips of a lifetime and added, “My children experienced music in a way that they couldn’t have in the classroom.” Facilitating such a trip is no small endeavor; the band will have to raise $700,000 for its members, instruments and equipment to make it to Europe. The Bloomingdale Band Boosters will be supporting the trip through fundraising. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for our students and the band boosters will provide as many opportunities to help offset the costs with fundraising opportunities. We welcome anyone who would like to help with this,” said Alan Chastain, Band Boosters President. The Rajun’ Bull Band is asking for additional support from the community in the form of sponsorships and donations. Anyone interested in contributing to Bloomingdale’s travel fund may contact Jon Sever or the Bloomingdale Band Boosters at jon.sever@sdhc.k12.fl.us or rajunbullband@mail.com.

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security officers, all schools in the county now have buzzer systems making sure that only those approved to be on campus can enter. According to Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) Media Outreach Tanya Arja, the buzzer systems were installed over the summer at every school that did not previously have one. At the end of the 201718 school year, 150 of the county schools were already using the system. “It is just another layer of security in our schools,” said Arja. Each system costs approximately $5,000 and capital dollars were used to pay for the upgrades. The buzzers were installed at the main doors of most schools, so that front office staff is able to see anyone attempting to enter.

“The schools will have one access point and all visitors have to go through the main office to get on campus,” said Arja. “The buzzer allows the front office to determine who is coming on campus and for what purpose before allowing them into the office.” HCPS hosted a media event at Barrington Middle School in FishHawk Ranch last month where Deputy Superintendent Chris Farkas spoke about the importance of keeping schools safe. “Security is on everyone’s minds - students, staff, parents and visitors,” said Arja. “We must change habits, including no longer holding doors open for others to enter a school.” Arja also explained that security policies, including whether parents can walk students to their classrooms at the beginning of the day, are individual to the school. “It is up to the principal at each school because each campus set up is different,” she said. For more information, contact HCPS at 272-4000.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9

Sheriff Chronister Speaks To Residents Heroes Run 5K Unites Community To Remember Lives Lost On 9/11 At Coffee With A Cop Event By Kate Quesada

Chronister. “Our goal Residents is to make our resifrom all over the dents feel safe and Brandon area getting to know those had the chance of us who are workto learn more ing to protect them about local law can only help that.” enforcement offiChronister spoke cers last month with community when members at the Hillsborough event about issues County Sheriff’s including check and Office (HCSO) identity theft and deputies Residents from the Brandon area met with school and gun safeBreanna Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office ty. He also spoke Rodriguez and representatives, including Sheriff Chad Clifford Fletcher Chronister, at Moreno Bakery for the second with a student interCoffee with a Cop event this year. ested in joining the hosted the secSheriff’s Office’s next training program. ond Coffee with a Cop event of the year When asked if there was any parat Moreno Bakery. The event was organized by Fletcher ticular information he wanted to get out and Rodriguez, both community resource to the public, Chronister emphasized the importance of residents locking their deputies for Hillsborough County’s car doors and keeping guns responsibly Region V working out of the stored. Bloomingdale Substation, to increase “So much of the crime we face in HCSO’s interaction with the public and to this area is what I call a crime of opporallow residents a chance to speak with tunity,” he said. “Three out of four car deputies and ask questions in a relaxed burglaries happen because people environment. leave their car doors unlocked and their “One of our goals this year is to get out and meet more of our residents, face- valuables, including guns, in their cars, often in plain sight. Let’s make it hard to-face,” said Rodriguez, a Valrico resion thieves by securing our property.” dent. “And seeing the wonderful turnout Fletcher and Rodriguez plan to confor this event makes us feel that the pubtinue holding the Coffee with a Cop lic feels the same way.” During the event, residents were also event at least every quarter at locations throughout the area. For more informaable to meet with Hillsborough County tion, contact them at the Bloomingdale Sheriff Chad Chronister who is up for reSubstation, located at 3622 Erindale Dr. election in November. Between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday“Events like this help everyone feel Friday or call 635-8040. more like part of the community,” said

Staff Report

The Travis ing almost all of their Manion men on 9/11—and Foundation will returned home with host the Lithia deeper passion 9/11 Heroes Run about why he was 5K race and 1 fighting in Iraq. At its mile Fun Run on heart, the 9/11 Heroes Run is a tribSaturday, ute to a personal September 15 at commitment to 8 a.m. at Park never forget the Square. The race Register at www.911heroesrun.org/lithia for heroes of that day. will unite the com- the 11th annual Travis Manion Foundation’s The 9/11 munity to remem9/11 Heroes Run 5K on Saturday, September 15 at Park Square. Heroes Run national ber the nearly race series will be held in more than 50 3,000 lives lost on 9/11, as well as to locations across the country and around honor veterans, military, and first responthe world, and is expected to draw over ders who serve our country and commu60,000 participants. nities. “During this divisive time in our counThis year’s race will welcome special try, I’m in awe at how so many communiguest United States Marine veteran and ties across the country and around the Paralympic athlete Rob Jones, who will world will put differences aside and comserve as keynote speaker, and will run ing together to honor all those touched by the 5K as part of a challenge that will see the events of September 11th, 2001.” him compete in nine 9/11 Heroes Runs said Ryan Manion, President of Travis across the country. The Rob Jones 9/11 Manion Foundation. “I’m equally moved Heroes Run Challenge is proud to have by the amazing challenge that Rob Jones support from Comcast NBCUniversal. has taken on to represent what it means After being injured during his second to live by ‘If Not Me, Then Who…’ and to tour of active duty in Iraq in 2008, Jones be an inspiration for everyone. We chalundertook a journey not only to rehabililenge all Americans to join us this tate, but to excel as an athlete with the goal of bringing awareness to the matters September, to ensure our future generations never forget the sacrifices of our vetof all veterans and raising money in superans, active duty military, first responport of various veterans’ organizations. ders, and civilians who were affected by The 9/11 Heroes Run 5K series was the attacks on 9/11 and in the wars inspired by Marine 1st Lt. Travis Manion, since.” who was killed by a sniper in Iraq in April To register, 2007 as he selflessly protected his battalvisit www.911heroesrun.org/lithia. Visit ion. Before his final deployment, he visitwww.travismanion.org. ed Rescue One in NYC—famous for los-


September 2018

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Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting

Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m. Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza, Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President – 767-1569 C

Parkinson's Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon

Third Tuesday of the Month; 6 p.m. Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.

Riverview Garden Club – Dooryard Fruit Trees

Wednesday, September 12; 10 a.m. Riverview Civic Center, 1120 Park Drive, Riverview - Free Parking.

Hawthorne Health & Rehab Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Third Thursday of the Month; 2 p.m. 851 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon Hawthorne Health & Rehabilitation Center hosts a monthly support group for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and caregivers on the third Thursday of every month. For more information or to register, call 661-8998 - M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Southern Company Chorus Bunco at Center Place

619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon Monday, October 1; Doors open 6 p.m.; Bunco at 7 p.m. $15 – Hors d’oeuvres, wine, soda, water and dessert (21 & over) For tickets, call Marge Wancio; 689-6548; Pat Worthington; 655-1643 or Center Place; 685-8888.

Vendors Wanted:

For Craft Show – Elks Lodge 2672

Saturday, September 29 Looking for Vendors Contact Harv Berman at 938-4110

Gifts & Crafts Fair – Bridges Retirement Community

Saturday, October 13 - 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 11350 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview Contact Janet Noah at 413-8900 or jnoah@thebridgesbvm.com.

Bikes, Cars, and Crafts Show - Nativity Catholic Church

Saturday, October 13 - 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 705 E Brandon Blvd., Brandon. Vendors - call Ashley at 625-1188 To register your vehicle or bike, call Wendy at 823-951-2054. Everybody is welcome – kid-friendly event

51st Annual Fall Craft Fair At St. Andrew’s UMC

Saturday, October 27 - 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 3315 Bryan Rd., Brandon Vendor applications found on at SAUMC.NET under ‘events’ and on facebook.com/StAndrewsUMCBrandon under home. Call the church office at 689-6849 for info.

11th Annual Holy Innocents’ Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show Saturday, November 3 - 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico Inside and outside locations available Interested vendors can register at www.hiepiscopal.org. Call church office 689-3130 for more information.

Lithia Church Outdoor Market At Grace Community United Methodist Church

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Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Residents Meet Candidates At Bell Shoals Forum Just In Time For Early Voting By Kathy L. Collins

On Friday For the canAugust 3, Bell didates, it is a Shoals Baptist way for them to Church in get in front of a Brandon hosted large, diverse its Candidate group of voters. Forum. The The forum was church hosts set up in two the forum every sections. In the two years and first part, each has done so for This year's forum attracted 60 candidates vying for participating Federal, State and Local offices. The forum is a the last 20 candidate had a unique opportunity for residents to meet each candi- table where years. Over 700 date. area residents they could hand attended this year's forum and met and out campaign material and directly speak heard from 60 candidates. with voters. The candidates who attended are The second part was in the Church's vying for office including for U.S. House of large auditorium. Each candidate was Representatives, State Constitutional given two minutes to give the audience Office, State Legislative office, Circuit an overall view on their positions. There Court Judge, Hillsborough County Court were no questions during this portion of Judge, Hillsborough County Commission, the forum. The only rules were that the and Hillsborough County School Board. audience had to listen respectfully to each Liz Hurt, a resident of Brandon candidate whether they agree with their attended the forum. This was her first position or not. time attending the forum. She liked the According to Dr. Stephen Rummage, set up and said, "I came to the forum the Senior Pastor for Bell Shoals Baptist because I wanted to hear the candidates' Church, "The church has been sponsorposition and ask questions." Hurt indicating this event for over 20 years as a way ed that she would attend the forum again. of showing support to the community." Bryce Manley, a home school stuLinda Thompson, a member of the dent who lives in Valrico, volunteered to Issues Team for the church, "We believe work at the forum. Manley is President of it is important to hold this event which is the Campo Family YMCA's Youth In non-partisan, so that voters can hear from Government Program. He has been politi- all of the candidates." cally active since he was 11 years old. For information on Bell Shoals Manley said, "Forums like this are a good Baptist Church, visit www.bellshoals.com. idea. It is an opportunity to hear from all To view a complete list of all the candiof the candidates on different issues. It dates who will be on the upcoming balallows voters to be prepared to vote." lots, visit www.votehillsborough.org.

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In recent months, there have been a number of news stories throughout the country about high levels of lead in school drinking water. Hillsborough County School District has proactive efforts in our district to ensure the water that students and staff drink is safe for consumption. According to Chris Farkas, Deputy Superintendent of Operations, “Since last year, we have tested the water at 1,781 individual faucets, drinking fountains, and fixtures where water is likely to be used for drinking or cooking in 53 schools and district sites. We will continue testing the drinking water sources in our schools for lead until we have checked all 270 facilities in our district.” Since the average campus age is 50 years old, older pipes and fixtures do have a higher likelihood of adding lead to water. Federal guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency recommend action to fix an issue when lead is measured at 20 parts per billion or higher. One part per billion is equivalent to a single drop of water in a swimming pool. “Our district is using a stricter standard of 15 parts per billion. Any fixture

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found to have lead levels of 15 parts per billion or higher is immediately taken out of operation and is not used again until the problem is fixed,” commented Farkas. Of the 1,781 samples taken so far, 26 have returned with levels higher than the guidelines. District protocol is to immediately shut down the affected faucet, correct the issue, and then retest the water to ensure the levels are in compliance before putting the faucet back into service. Options to correct an issue include replacing the fixture, adding water filters, or other plumbing projects. Alternative sources of water may be supplied to schools if needed. Each school may have dozens of faucets requiring testing, and results take time to come back from the testing lab. Results are posted as received at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/watertesting. If a school has a fixture testing over the 15 parts per billion level, parents and staff will be notified by email and text message. If you have any questions about the testing or results as we receive them, please visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/doc/2012/maintenance/resources/watertesting-faq/.

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September 2018

Page 7

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

By Kate Quesada

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FishHawk HOA Hosts Local Shopping Bazaar Whether you are getHumadorables by Susan ting a jump start on holiday sells her authentic, Tampa gifts or just love shopping, cigar box purses and mark your calendars for valets at the Bazaar. Her Saturday, September 15. products are all fully lined The semi-annual Indoor and finished and have Shopping Bazaar will take been very popular at past place at FishHawk Ranch’s events. Palmetto Club with 44 ven“The FishHawk dors offering one-of-a-kind Shopping Bazaar is a great gifts and more. venue for anyone looking “Don’t miss this special shopping opportunity,” said More than 40 vendors will FishHawk Ranch HOA offer goods at the semiAssociation Coordinator annual Indoor Shopping Bazaar. Susan Parvin. Among the vendors at the event is for an former FishHawk resident Cynthia Rock, unusual owner of C Whimsy. Rock has attended gift or gift the FishHawk Shopping Bazaars since to sell,” said Jordan. 2013 offering wreaths and burlap door Other vendors at the Bazaar sell jewhangers. elry, clothing, crafts, organic skin care “C Whimsy started by accident products, essential oils, natural pet prodbecause my neighbors asked me where I ucts, candles, waxes, facial products, got items around my house and I told hand designed glass art, handbags, pursthem I made them,” said Rock, who prees and more. The event is held inside to viously owned a flower shop. escape the heat. Rock explained that the FishHawk Attendance is free and the OneBlood Bazaar is one of the few events she Big Red Bus will be in the parking lot durattends because of the wide variety of ing the event accepting blood donations. products available. The Palmetto Club is located at “The Bazaar is great for everyone 17004 Dorman Rd. In Lithia’s FishHawk because there are many different venRanch. For information, call Parvin at dors, and the customers can have an 657-6629. For info about Humadorables enjoyable shopping experience,” she by Susan, visit www.humadorablesbysusaid. “There are tons of homemade items san.com or call 655-8003. For more that make great gifts.” information on C Whimsy visit Buckhorn resident Susan Jordan with www.Cwhimsy.com.

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Page 8

Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Area HART Bus Drivers Recognized For A Million Safe Miles

By Kate Quesada

Thirteen bus operators with HART were recognized last month for driving one million miles without a preventable accident.

Two Brandon-area bus drivers received a special honor last month. Jimmy Suarez and Marc Henry were two of 13 HART operators recognized during the Authority’s third annual HART Million Mile Safe Driver Awards luncheon as drivers who achieved outstanding safely milestones in driving and service. Both operators were recognized for driving more than one million miles without a preventable accident. “I am honored to have received this award,” said Henry, who drives Route 37 from Brandon to Netpark Transfer Center. “My family is very proud of this great achievement. They know how passionate I am about my job and how I enjoy helping others.” HART honors drivers reaching the million mile milestone annually. “In today’s driving conditions these operators have accomplished something that demonstrates their high level of safety consciousness and commitment to the safety of their passengers, fellow motorists, pedestrians and cyclists,” said HART Interim CEO Jeff Seward. “We congratulate these accomplished bus operators and thank them for their hard work and dedication.” According to HART Deputy Press Secretary Sandra Morrison, a million miles is the equivalent to driving 769

one-way trips from Tampa to New York City and is longer than driving to the moon and back twice. Brandon resident and 15 year HART operator, Suarez, drives Route 1 and Route 39 in Tampa. “This is a wonderful recognition and I feel truly honored to have been given the Million Mile Award,” said Suarez. “I take my job very seriously because I have a responsibility to protect my customers and get them to their destinations safely. I take much pride in my job as a HART Bus Operator.” Additionally, two operators, Cosma Garcia and Tony Hernandez, were recognized for driving two million miles without a preventable accident. “HART’s Safe Driver Awards program allows executive leadership and management to recognize and honor those who have served the public in a safe and customer-centric manner,” said Chief Administrative Officer and Interim Chief of Staff Kenyatta Lee. “This is a great opportunity to show our appreciation for the best of the best, who take great care of the Authorirty’s customers and vehicles.” Henry has some words of advice for new bus operators. “Always take your time, watch your surroundings and always use your mirrors,” he said. For more information, visit www.gohart.org.

AAA Announces Contest For 8th Graders To Win A Free European River Cruise

By Matt Nasworthy, Florida Public Affairs Director, AAA

AAA will give Florida meet to be similar to and 8th graders the chance different from yourself and to go on the trip of a lifeyour friends and family? time. The Auto Club Winners will be notiGroup will hold a contest fied beginning in October. where winners receive One parent or legal free round trip airfare to guardian will serve as a chaperone. Each pair will Amsterdam, travel insurance, money for passshare a cabin while sailports, and a river cruise ing on the AMA through the Netherlands Waterways ‘AmaDante’ and Belgium. ship, from March 28 – It is partnering with April 4, 2019. AMA Waterways and “This is the first time Allianz Global Assistance AAA has held a contest to provide the trip. A total like this,” said Deborah of 60 students in select Haas, Vice President, AAA is holding a contest for Travel Products and states will be chosen to eighth graders in Florida to win a riverboat trip through the Services, AAA-The Auto go on what AAA calls Netherlands and Belgium. Club Group. “We truly the ‘Discovery Crew’ Contest runs through want to inspire young travcruise. September 21. Visit AAA.com/DiscoveryCrew. elers and make the world The contest runs their classroom. The winners will explore through Tuesday, September 21. beautiful destinations in The Netherlands Students can enter and Belgium, learn about the people and at AAA.com/DiscoveryCrew. their culture; and create memories that To be eligible, students must be will last a lifetime. entering the 8th grade in good standing; “AAA is extremely excited to co-sponat least 13 years old and reside in Florida, sor the contest and trip,” Haas continued. Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, Nebraska, “This would not be possible without our North Dakota, Tennessee, Wisconsin, or travel partners AMA Waterways - who select areas of Illinois, Indiana, or donated the cruise – and Allianz Global Minnesota. Assistance.” Winners will be selected based on a For official rules, prize descriptions, creative ‘selfie’ showcasing their love for and eligible zip codes, travel, as well as their answers to three visit AAA.com/DiscoveryCrew. Sponsors essay questions: Why do you want to go are The Auto Club Group, on this trip; How do rivers affect the comAmaWaterways, and Allianz Global munities through which they run and during the trip, you will meet many people. In Assistance (a brand of AGA Service Company). what ways do you expect the people you

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September 2018

Page 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Tide Dry Cleaners Offers Quality, Convenience & 24/7 Pickup

By Michelle Caceres

The days of ractomers the ability to stay ing across town to in their cars while helpful pick up your dry staff quickly and efficleaning before the ciently process dry store closes are gone. cleaning orders. Tide Dry Cleaners, Convenience is not located at 1928 E. the only reason cusBloomingdale Ave. in tomers love Tide Dry Valrico, offers the conCleaners. Cleaning is venience of 24-hour done on the air-condipick-up and drop-off tioned premises. Every with its trademarked item that is brought in Tide Dry Cleaners store manager goes through a seven‘Anytime kiosk and Tyler Froehle prepares to dry clean drop-box.’ point inspection process a comforter at the newly opened Valrico location. Owners Berry to ensure nothing is and Sharon Wright said some customers missed. Garments are inspected for using the kiosk for the first time document stains, damage and missing or broken the experience. “Some customers take buttons (which they replace free of out their phones and record the process charge if possible). as the kiosk selects and delivers their Tide Dry Cleaners uses a non-toxic freshly cleaned clothes to them,” said dry-cleaning process that replaces petroSharon. “It really is a neat thing to leum-based chemicals with liquid silicone behold.” solvents that is gentler on clothes. Tide is FishHawk resident Frances Chavez used on garments that are laundered. didn’t document her first experience with Every garment gets an infusion of the the kiosk but did call her husband to tell familiar Tide scent for freshness but cushim about it. “I told him this kiosk is so tomers can request no scent. Tide prodcool, like a dry-cleaning ATM,” joked ucts are sold in the store. Chavez, who said she signed up for the Tide Dry Cleaners is open Monday to free express pick-up service because with Friday 7 a.m.–7 p.m. and Saturday 8 her busy life she needed the convenience a.m.–5 p.m. The store is open Sunday of 24-hour pickup. from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. for drop-offs and Chavez signed up for the Inner Circle pick-ups only. rewards program, which offers special Need a garment cleaned in a hurry? perks like an individualized express bag Most orders dropped off before 9 a.m. on allowing for 24/7 drop-off, hassle-free weekdays can be ready by 5 p.m. the billing and money-saving discounts. same day. Orders dropped off by 9 a.m. Not interested in using the kiosk? on Saturdays can be ready by 3 p.m. Not to worry, during store hours the covFor information, visit www.tidered drive-thru valet service allows cusedrycleaners.com or call 662-4243.

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Page 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9

Doctor Brings Comprehensive Center For Dermatology To FishHawk

Bloomingdale High Student Places In National Business Contest

Board-certified dergal infections, she matologist Dr. Jennifer believes one of the most Conde knows what it is critical services she like to juggle a busy offers is skin cancer family life. The foundscreenings. ing director of the “It is so important Comprehensive Center that people get regularly for Dermatology checked, thoroughly, by opened her FishHawk someone with a trained office less than a eye,” she said. month before giving “Especially living in birth to twins girls earliFlorida, it is vital that the er this year and is skin is examined annualdetermined to use her ly.” experience to make On the cosmetic medical care easier for side, the Center offers a Board certified dermatologist area families. Jennifer Conde recently opened large variety of services Dr. Conde, a grad- the Comprehensive Center for including Botox and Dermatology in FishHawk. uate of the University Dysport injections, of Florida who completed her dermaJuvederm and Restylane fillers, chemitology residency training at Broward cal peels and Hydrafacials. Health Medical Center in Fort Dr. Conde also emphasizes her Lauderdale where she was awarded desire for the Center to be a family Resident of the Year, is offering a one- location with a variety of pediatric stop shop of dermatology services for services offered. patients of all ages. “I plan to become a part of this “We want to make sure that our community and develop long term patients feel welcome and part of the relationships with the families here,” family,” said Dr. Conde, who grew up she said. in Florida and plans to relocate to the The 2,300 sq. ft. center with seven FishHawk area in the next year. “This exam rooms is conveniently located off is such a wonderful place to raise chil- FishHawk Blvd. and according to Dr. dren.” Conde all patients will be seen by a The Comprehensive Center for board certified dermatologist at every Dermatology offers medical, cosmetic visit. and pediatric dermatology services. The Comprehensive Center for Although Dr. Conde sees medical derDermatology is located at 5607 Skytop matology patients for a variety of Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at issues including eczema, acne, moles, 530-6511. To make an appointment, melasma, rosacea, psoriasis and funvisit www.ccdermatology.com.

Bloomingdale High States, China, Puerto Rico School (BSHS) junior Alex and Haiti participated in Fisher has big plans for his the national competition. future and over the sumFBLA currently has mer he came closer to approximately 250,000 make his dreams a reality. members in the United Fisher, a Bloomingdale resStates alone. ident, attended the Future According to Fisher, Business Leaders of the FBLA chapter at BSHS America (FBLA) national is a small but active group, competition in Baltimore always looking for new and came home with a top members. 10 finish. “Any student is a good Students qualify for the Alex Fisher recently placed fit for FBLA,” he said. “You FBLA national finals by tenth in the national Future just have to be willing to Business Leaders of placing in the top two at a spend a little time doing America competition. district competition and the research and attend a few top four at the state level. During nationmeetings at school.” als, Fisher competed in the Sports and Fisher believes that the group helps Entertainment Management category as students develop presentation skills and an individual, the only student not working learn how to research, something he as part of a team. In Baltimore, he comfeels will be beneficial in college. pleted an online test in which he scored in “If you want to learn and practice prethe top 15, which qualified him to move sentations and get more comfortable talkonto the presentation portion where he ing in front of people, this is a perfect fit,” was given 20 minutes to prepare a busisaid Fisher. “All the adults I have spoken ness plan on a specific topic covering a to in the real business world are extremenumber of different categories. After the ly impressed with the students that are 20 minutes, he gave a seven minute part of FBLA because they appreciate presentation to a panel of judges who how hard it is to just speak in front of peowere free to ask questions at the end. ple and prepare something. Being able to “It was a great experience,” said think on your feet is important and a trait Fisher, who is planning to study mathewe often overlook, but it is used everyday matics in college. “What was extremely in real-life scenarios.”He plans to attend gratifying was talking to sponsors from the competition again next year and has other schools and the other finalists who set his goal as a third place finish. acknowledged how difficult it was to take BSHS is located at 1700 E. on this subject as a single participant and Bloomingdale Ave. and can be reached not a team. This meant a lot to me.” at 744-8018. For information on FBLA, Students from throughout the United visit www.fbla-pbl.org.

By Kate Quesada

By Kate Quesada


September 2018

Page 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

FishHawk Creek Invites Students To Walk To School

By Kate Quesada

Wednesday, global event October 10 is involving National Walk to communities School Day and from more parents at than 40 FishHawk Creek countries that Elementary School encourage are looking for volstudents to unteers and busiwalk or bike nesses to help to school on FishHawk Creek Elementary School is make the event, the same encouraging residents and businesses to help students celebrate Walk to School Day on which emphasizes day. Wednesday, October 10. safe, healthy ways “Over for students to get to school, as impactful time, this event has become part of a as possible. movement for year-round safe routes to Last year, FishHawk Creek was school and a celebration, with record nominated for Hillsborough County’s breaking participation, each October,” Safety Award in part because of the size said Goodwin, who explains that schools and scope of the Walk to School Day cel- from all 50 states, the District of Columbia ebration and Committee Co-Chairs and Puerto Rico participate every year. Stefanie Goodwin and Kristin Taylor hope Goodwin and Taylor also credit to make this year’s event better than ever. school crossing guard Debbie Caputo, “Keeping our children safe every day who was nominated for America’s is the number one goal of everyone Favorite Crossing Guard last year, for involved,” said Goodwin. “We are so helping students get to school safely excited to bring local families and busievery day. nesses together in this awareness.” “Although we celebrate this Walk to FishHawk Creek families are encour- School Day each October, our community aged to meet at Park Square before embraces the safety procedures and school on October 10 to receive giveawareness throughout the school year,” aways, prizes, coupons and more from said Goodwin. local businesses to celebrate the commuFishHawk Creek Elementary School nity’s commitment to safety. is located at 16815 Dorman Rd. in Lithia “In addition to the support of our local and can be reached at 651-2150. Any businesses, we will have the continued businesses interested in participating in help of St. Joseph’s Hospital and Bay the celebration can contact Goodwin at Care,” said Goodwin, who lists additional stefaniefgoodwin@hotmail.com or Taylor sponsors as Abdoney Orthodontists, Art at kristintaylor30@gmail.com. To learn Monkey and FishHawk Sporting Goods. more about Walk to School Day, visit International Walk to School Day is a www.walkbiketoschool.org.

Crisis Center Of Tampa Bay Distributes Crisis Hotline Information To Students

By Ken Gibson

Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, President & CEO, Clara Reynolds presents information about 2-1-1 and the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay to Hillsborough County Public Schools Student Services staff. (Pictured L-R: Valerie Dickson, Carmela Pizzichetti and Kimberly Terrell.

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has distributed 150,000 plastic 2-1-1 information cards to Student Services staff working in Hillsborough County Public Schools. Boxes of cards were distributed to Student Services staff at a school district professional planning day at Riverview High School on August 3. The cards remind people that help and connections to community resources can be found 24 hours a day through a simple phone call to 21-1. Funds to print the cards were provided by TECO. In addition, Crisis Center of Tampa Bay President & CEO, Clara Reynolds, did a presentation to the school counselors and provided an overview of Crisis Center of Tampa Bay services. “School counselors and teachers are community heroes. They help to mold and shape the next generation, but they can’t do everything for the kids and their families. People in our community need to know they can call 2-1-1. That number is a community gateway where they can have a confidential conversation and be connected to help.” said Clara Reynolds President & CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. “TECO is proud to support this important initiative,” said Holly Miller Moore, regional manager of Tampa Electric and Peoples Gas. “By helping to provide resources like these

cards, we’re helping to empower and educate families and grow stronger and safer communities.” This is the second year in a row the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has worked with Hillsborough County Public Schools to distribute 2-1-1 cards. In 2017, over 60,000 cards were distributed to high school students. This year cards will be distributed to elementary and middle school students in August with additional cards being distributed to high school students in September. The mission of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is to ensure that no one in the community has to face crisis alone. The organization is the community’s gateway to help, hope, and healing, and is Tampa Bay’s elite provider of crisis and trauma services. Responding to over 160,000 requests for help each year, the nonprofit agency offers a range of evidence based programs designed to meet community needs: • Corbett Trauma Center (trauma counseling and sexual assault survivor services) • TransCare (9-1-1 emergency and mental health ambulance services, medical van transportation) • Gateway Contact Center (2-1-1: suicide prevention, crisis counseling, and information and referral services) For more information, please visit www.crisiscenter.com.

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Page 12

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Bevis Principal Melanie Cochrane Accepts Move To McDonald Elementary

By Kate Quesada

After 14 years at Lithia’s Bevis Elementary, FishHawk resident Melanie Cochrane took over as principal at McDonald Elementary in Seffner last month.

FishHawk resident Melanie Cochrane spent the last 14 years helping According to shape young minds at Lithia’s Colleen to Cochrane, 96 perBevis Elementary School, but last month cent of the students at she took on a new challenge allowing McDonald qualify for the county’s free her an even greater impact. and reduced lunch program, based on Over the summer, Cochrane their household income. This number is received a surprise assignment naming significantly higher than at Bevis. her principal at McDonald Elementary, a Among the many plans Cochrane Title 1 School in Seffner. has for her new school is a continued “It was a quick, big change, and I partnership with Bevis, which she hopes miss my Bevis will benefit both family very schools. much, but I am “I am so grateful excited about that Bevis decided to this opportunity,” sponsor McDonald said Cochrane, this year and the who joined school family has Bevis as assisalready shown up for tant principal in me, with physical 2004 and help and support,” served as the she said. school’s princiMcDonald is pal for five always looking for years. volunteers and PE A St. equipment is currentPetersburg ly a great need along native, with many other Cochrane items. Cochrane is recently complanning a sweatshirt FishHawk resident Melanie Cochrane pleted a drive once the became assistant principal at Bevis Specials Degree Elementary 14 years ago. Pictured here with weather gets cooler former Bevis Principal Trisha Simonson in and encourages anyin Turnaround 2008 Education from one interested in the University of South Florida, which helping to contact her or the school’s she plans to use, in addition to her B.A. guidance counselor, Patty Stanisowski. degree in Special Education and M.A. But despite her new position, degree in Educational Leadership, in her Cochrane promises that FishHawk, and new role. especially Bevis, cannot get rid of her “This is such a different school and easily. community from Bevis and my new stu“I do not plan on leaving this comdents have very different life experiences munity that has offered me so much supand challenges,” she said, adding that port over the years,” she said. “Once a she feels this will help her have an even Bronco, always a Bronco.” greater impact on young lives. “I feel an McDonald Elementary is located at even greater responsibility as an educa501 Pruett Rd. in Seffner and can be tor now.” reached at 744-8154.

Volume 17, Issue 9

Bingo Scheduled To Raise Funds For Life-Saving Swimming Lessons

By Kate Quesada

Riverview resiships for lessons. dent Kari Bahour “Our house is surand her team at rounded by pools and Water Smart Tots pond, so learning surare on a mission to vival skills around the erase pediatric water was essential for drowning from the our young children,” Tampa Bay Area by said Morrison. “Water 2020 and they have Smart Tots made it posfound a fun way that sible for them to attend residents can help one-on-one survival them. On Thursday, swim lessons where September 27, the they learned how to group is holding its save themselves if they Riverview residents Colin and Ellie Third Annual Morrison received scholarships to learn should fall in and also to swim with instructor Alanna Cutri Designer face them a healthy from Water Smart Tots. Sunglasses Bingo and safe love of the at The Palmetto Club in FishHawk Ranch water. We are all forever grateful.” and all funds raised will go towards proDuring the bingo event, attendees will viding scholarships for survival swimming be able to play 10 rounds of bingo with classes to young children who are finaneach round winner scoring a pair of cially under-privileged or have special designer sunglasses. There will be six needs. Alex & Ani bracelets as door prizes, Bahour, who founded Water Smart donated by Operation Lotus, and each Tots in 2014 after hearing about three player will receive a swag bag stuffed fatal drownings that occurred on Mother’s with items from Pinot’s Palate, Nothing Day weekend, is an infant self-rescue Bundt Cakes and more. Entertainment swim instructor who has taught life saving will be provided by DJ Jake De La Cruz skills to hundreds of local children. and dinner will be catered by East Coast In the last four years, more 250 chilPizza, Taco Yolo, Nothing Bundt Cakes dren have received scholarships for oneand Heavenly Creations. Sponsors for on-one, survival swimming lessons and the event include Premier Care 780 children have been educated about Pediatrics, Newberry Contracting, Inc. water safety in classrooms. and the Osprey Observer. Water Smart Tots, a 501(c)3 nonprofit Tickets and sponsorships are still corporation, has raised more than available. For more information, email $23,000 to fund the scholarships and info@watersmarttots.com. To learn more paid more than $1,600 to instructors. about Water Smart Tots, visit Riverview resident Krista Morrison’s www.watersmarttots.org or find the group two children recently received scholaron Facebook.

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September 2018

Page 13

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Bahama Buck’s Brings A Piece Of Paradise To Brandon, Worth The Drive

By Tatiana Ortiz

The Agnew Family (Left to right:Tamara Agnew (Owner), Riley Agnew (General Manager), Brian Agnew (Owner) and Bridget Agnew.

community, neighborhood and a place where everyone feels welcomed,” Agnew said. Those who visit the Brandon location will notice a rolling cart filled with classic board games such as Battleship, Jenga and more for guests to play. The 1,200 sq. ft. building at Bahama Buck’s provides indoor seating and outdoor patio seating options for nearly 40 guests. It offers

To beat the heat, individuals might crave a refreshing sweet treat, which melts in their mouth. Even though the summer will be winding down, Bahama

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free Wi-Fi as well. To add, Bahama Buck’s considers flavor to be an art form and infuses it into every aspect of its business by providing more than 100 flavors of shaved ice such as birthday cake, sour patch and many more delicious Sour Patch, Birthday Cake and Jolly Rancher flavors. A vast selection of shaved ice "sno." shaved ice sizes can be ordered, which range from Baby-8 Buck’s in Brandon offers a variety of oz. to Avalanche- 32 oz. It also sells shaved ice flavors and more yearsmoothies, fruit cups, iced or frozen round. lemonades and more. Prices vary On July 24, the Agnew family with all the Bahama Buck’s products. opened Bahama Buck in Brandon. For those interested, Bahama This is the seventh location in the Buck’s offers punch cards as part of state of Florida. The franchise has its loyalty program. Once guests more than 100 locations throughout reach their 10th visit on the card, the United States and Puerto Rico. In they can then choose one free item 1990, Blake Buchanan opened the off the menu. It also gives a military first Bahama Buck’s in Lubbock, discount of 10% off the total bill with Texas. The island adventure began a valid identification. with a vision for the Greatest Sno® For information, visit www.faceon Earth, which resulted in the book.com/bbfl1229/. It is located at Bahama Buck’s attitude, style and 1258 Kingsway Rd. Ste. 15 (corner eclectic taste of the tropics. of Kingsway Rd. and Windhorst Rd.) Bahama Buck’s general managin Brandon. Open Monday through er, Riley Agnew, shared how its Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and Brandon location came into fruition. Sunday 12 Noon-10 p.m. Call 548“We sought this area out 0341. because we want to be part of the

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Page 14

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9

Summer In Vietnam Makes For A Remarkable Life Experience And Gives A New Meaning To Travel For most of my childhood, I fantasized about one day visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Of all the places I ever imagined I would visit, Vietnam had never crossed my mind. So when I woke up at 5 am on July 23rd, ready to leave for the airport and begin the long, long journey to the other side of the globe, I could barely contain my excitement. My friend’s mom Bonnie Karet, also President of the Big Big Bonding with the kids was one of the most fun World (BBW) Project, and special parts of the trip. The little kids were has been visiting full of energy and wanted to play all the time. Vietnam for several amazing two weeks. years, each year going to the same chilGrowing up visiting my family dren’s center in Phan Tiet. She and other in Mexico City every year, I have grown to board members of the organization startthe chaos that welcomed me in love ed this project after visiting the center in HCMC. Motorbikes sped by left and right, 2008 for the first time and invited me on and as we drove to the hotel, I was the 2018 trip. amazed at the vibrant energy of the city. Armed with my overpacked suitcase, days in HCMC were full of firsts Our an entire pharmacy’s worth of medicines I for me. From meeting all the university “might” need (courtesy of my mom), four students BBW supports, trying my first bulging suitcases worth of donations, and bowl of piping hot Pho and going to one of my best friends, I was more than karaoke, to riding a motorbike for the first ready to go. time, I was always doing something new. We landed in Ho Chi Minh City Not one day went by without stopping to (HCMC) at 1 p.m. Immediately as I buy ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced cofstepped outside into the hot, humid waiting area with excited families and flashing fee) at the nearest coffee shop. As our short days in HCMC came to lights and sounds, I knew it would be an an end, we headed to Phan Tiet for the

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By Manuela Graf

shopping trips, dental visits for the kids, and delicious barbeques, it seemed to go by too fast. Despite a language barrier, I found myself bonding with many of the kids, and it was clear that the love was a language itself. When it came time to leave, it was hard not to get emotional. My time in Vietnam was not only an emotional experience but taught me to appreciate things that I took for granted before. Seeing The annual Big Big World shopping trip allows the kids at the center each of the kids to buy new clothes and being recognized by backpacks for the school year. Big Big World for their main leg of the trip. After a 5academic achievements made me realhour van ride we arrived at the ize how valuable education is to move center, and I immediately felt far in life. Handling my own money and welcomed by all the kids and the nannies converting to a foreign currency was a that work there. They all seemed ecstatic challenge that helped me gain self-suffito see everyone from BBW, and the love ciency. was overwhelming. Among all these life lessons, the BBW Project’s help to provide life most valuable experience I had was the resources and emotional support to kids experience of love from everyone I met, at the children’s center was evident, and I and it made the trip truly remarkable. had the amazing opportunity to see all of The knowledge and experiences I Big Big World’s effort at work with the gained from this trip is what makes me organization, and the lasting bonds many recommend travelling to any young perof the kids have with its members. son who is willing to have an open mind. The five-day trip to Phan Tiet was full For info about Big Big World’s role in of endless activities with the kids, and in these kids lives or to donate, visit between field trips to beautiful sand www.bigbigworldproject.org. dunes, visits to the market, dance parties,


September 2018

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 15

Local Veterans Group Awards Scholarships To Local Graduates

Hillsborough County Parks Plans 5K Running Series

A scholarship banHer mom is a nurse quet was held August 11 practitioner and truly at the Surfs Edge Club loves what she does, at MacDill AFB to honor and Eberhart hopes to winners of the 2018 get the same joy out life scholarships awarded by by helping people. the Tampa Green Beret Tessa Monroe Association and attends the University of Command Chapter LX, South Carolina, majoring Special Forces in Biology. She is a memAssociation. ber of the National Honor Society, and a Capstone The banquet celeScholar. Monroe also brated the accomplishsupports the chapter by ments of students who Claire Eberhart is attending the volunteering at its last exemplified the ethos University of South Florida for Sporting Clays Shoot and values of the both her undergraduate and Special Forces: honor, medical school degrees with the fundraiser. goal of becoming a She applied for the courage, loyalty, integrity, neurosurgeon. RJM scholarship and commitment. because her dad is a Now in its 23rd year, member of the Special the program is a passion Forces Association, and project of local veterans because attending colto support the mission of lege out of state is costly. the Special Forces She was also interested Association while helpin answering all the ing the future of veteran essay questions and families. The first scholgiving opinions on arship was $500. The Richard J. Meadows scholarship program has and how his story provided 68 awards, and impacts her. “I was in the last eight years, super excited about has funded $140,000 in being awarded this scholarships for local Tessa Monroe attends the scholarship and kind of students. This year University of South Carolina, and surprised because I $15,000 in scholarship majors in Biology. was really nervous in awards was split my interview and didn’t know how the between five students: Claire Eberhart interviewers would think of me and my and Tessa Monroe, both from plans for college,” she said. Bloomingdale High School, Harry “I’ve always been more math and Thomas Woodmansee IV from Durant science based while in middle and high High School, Mallory Bilyeu and Caleb school and I wanted to explore every Keoho. avenue I could go down for a career. I Scholarship applicants had to be a figured Biology is super broad and I’m member or be related to a member or assigned to USSOCOM or USSOCCENT bound to find something that really calls to me that I could research or get a job at MacDill AFB, as active duty Green in.” Beret, have a minimum unweighted 3.0 Harry Thomas Woodmansee IV is GPA and be involved in extracurricular a member of the National Honor activities and volunteer in the community. Society, volunteers at as swim and Claire Eberhart is attending the Little League coach and at the Plant University of South Florida for both her City Food Bank. In his last two years at undergraduate and medical school degrees with the goal of becoming a neu- Durant, he was the baseball team captain. rosurgeon. With a 4.0 unweighted and a For more information on the 6.52 weighted GPA, she is the leader of Scholarship Program, visit https://spethe 2018 scholarship class. cialforces.org/richard-j-meadows/ or the Eberhart said, “I applied to the R.J.M Tampa Green Beret Association and scholarship because of my dad, who is a Command Chapter LX, Special Forces Special Forces veteran. Finding out that I was one of the winners was fantastic feel- Association at https://specialforces.org/, please contact Jon Mueller at joning. I’m proud to be related to a veteran mue@aol.com or 728-5505. and honored they chose me.”

J. Wortham Park on Saturday, September 29 at 8:30 a.m. with packet pick up from 7-8:15 a.m. “Wortham Park was chosen this year due to the partnering of Hillsborough County’s Parks and Recreation and Conservation and Environmental Lands Stephen J. Wortham Park in Riverview is hosting the Management (CELM) first in a series of 5K races planned for parks around Department’s staff who Hillsborough County on Saturday, September 29. have been working diliHillsborough County is looking for a gently together to revitalize the park few good runners. In an effort to showand its unique trails,” said Bowers. case the natural beauty of the many “These beautification efforts are parks throughout the area with running designed to not only accommodate the trails, the county recently announced race, but also and more significantly, to the first date for its Run Hillsborough reintroduce the park to the community 5K series. by highlighting its stunning nature, The series will highlight a different exploration and recreation opportuniHillsborough County park each quarter ties.” with a run through various terrains and The fee to enter the race is $25 a medal for all registered finishers. and participants receive a t-shirt and Runners, walkers and hikers of all ages medal for completing the race. There and abilities are invited to attend. will also be a prize for the top three “Hillsborough County has some female and male participants. gorgeous trails, and we would like to According to Bowers, each race in show them off to those not yet the series will offer a different medal, acquainted,” said Vince Bowers, unique to the park where the race is Hillsborough County Parks and held. Recreation Program Supervisor. “This “It is important to not only encourseries allows us to do just that by offerage and provide health and wellness ing adventure seekers a chance to opportunities, but also to expose the maintain a healthy lifestyle by meeting community to our precious natural new people and connecting with parks and resources,” said Bowers. nature.” For more information, call Bowers The first run will take place at at 557-8272 or visit www.hillsboroughRiverview’s recently renovated Stephen county.org.

Staff Report

By Kate Quesada


Page 16

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9


September 2018

Nicole Russell Named Head Diving Coach Of Team Colwill

By Nick Nahas

Team Colwill practices at BSAC.

Page 17

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

coach under Colwill. When Russell was 15, she started coaching summer camps at BSAC. She stopped coaching when she went off to college and got back to it with Team Colwill when she moved back to Florida a couple of years ago. “I always

Nicole Russell has taken over as head diving coach of Team Colwill at the Brandon Sports & Aquatic Center (BSAC). The founder of the team, Chris Colwill, was named head diving coach at the University of Georgia on August 2. The team consists of divers aged 6 to 18. Russell and Colwill grew up together and have remained long-time friends. She was eight and he was six when they Nicole Russell has taken over as head diving coach of Team Colwill at the Brandon Sports & Aquatic first started diving training under Center. had an affinity for sports and diving in general,” said Russell. “I picked up coaching well and was able to relate and explain it well to children. When my coach saw that, he offered me an opportunity and I took it and that was it from there.” Russell is a middle school math teacher at Winthrop Charter School in Riverview as well. Russell said that this Russell gives her students instructions. chance to be head diving Coach Joe Greenwell at Brandon Swim & instructor was unexpected but that it means the world to have this opportunity. Tennis Club which is now BSAC. They “I’m looking forward to the future and later went on to be on the Junior what it will hold with our team and for Olympics and National Teams and comtheir growth within the sport of diving,” peted in East Coast Championship comshe said. petitions together. Russell thinks that Colwill, being the “We share the same vision for what head coach at Georgia, will offer opportuwe want out of the program here and nities to its divers and to its program overhow we want it to continue,” said Colwill. all through dive camps and other things “We know what works and what doesn’t. of that nature. “The realm of possibilities She has already developed a great rapjust expanded for both of our facilities,” port with the team. Having that relationshe said. “The ultimate goal is to grow the ship is definitely going to be helpful, and program.” not only that, she is a fantastic coach.” For information, visit MyBSAC.org. Russell was previously an assistant

New Chapter Of Blue Thong Society Founded To Serve Area Non-Profits

By Kathy L. Collins

volunteering. It is fun to do it with other like-minded women,” added Drost. Blue Thong Society was founded in 2005 by Mary Jo Wallo. Blue Thong Society Chapters pledge social commitments called GoodWorks and commit to them publicly in front of the entire Blue Thong Society membership. “The goals are serious and our Chapter’s reputation in the Blue Thong Society is on the line to deliver what we commit to. But we have also Shelly Drost (R ), director of the new Southern committed to enjoying ourselves Belles Chapter of the Blue Thong Society with Annie McKelvey (L), co-director of Southern along the way. It is a founding credo Belles and Mary Jo Wallo (c ), co-founder of of the Blue Thong Society that we Blue Thong Society. accomplish goals, but we do it with Shelly Drost of Dover has founded like-minded women who enjoy each Sunshine Belles, a new chapter of the other’s company,” said Drost. Blue Thong Society. Member of Blue “The next step for us is to grow our Thong Society Chapters are all women. Chapter and then make our first They meet regularly, have fun and do GoodWorks TM commitment to the Blue good works in their community. Members Thong Society founder, Mary Jo Wallo of Blue Thong Society Chapters are like and the entire Blue Thong Society memthe boots on the ground for local nonbership,” added Drost. profits. The members volunteer at organi“Pledged commitments get results,” zations on a regular basis or will be the said Wallo. “We are proud of Shelly and volunteers at a fundraising event. her team and are delighted for the Sunshine Belles members volunteer Brandon community, who will benefit from at ECHO one time a month. They work in their efforts,” added Wallo. the donation room and help clients in the There are 300 Blue Thong Society clothing area. They will also volunteer at Chapters and consist of more than 5000 the Hailey House Golf Tournament and at women who are modern, confident, prothe Am Vets Post 44 Golf Tournament in fessional and philanthropic. The women November. connect socially but with purpose and Members of Blue Thong Chapters intent to make the world a better place. have fun while doing good in the commuIf you would like more information on nity. Drost said, “If there is a group that the Southern Belles Chapter of the Blue needs volunteers, we will be happy to Thong Society, please contact Drost at help.” Drost grew up volunteering. “I enjoy 541-5292 or srdrost@hotmail.com.

Vacationing At An All-Inclusive There is a perception that if you vacation at an all-inclusive, you will be bored the entire vacation, that they are for couples only and there is little to do. These are myths. Here are five exciting activities and options available at all-inclusive properties: 1. Endless Activities on the property– There is something for everyone. Kids programs, family fun activities and adult-only activities such as spa, pool parties, bowling alleys, water slides and more ensure you will not be bored. 2. Food Galore – You will not go hungry at an all-inclusive. The Grill, beach BBQs, buffet and a-la-carte restaurants without having a fancy dress code are all included. 3. Room Choices – What size room do you want and with what amenities? Did you know you can have direct pool access from your room, a private hot tub on your balcony, personalized butler service and plenty more make staying at an allinclusive 4. Quench Your Thirst – You will never go thirsty at an all-inclusive resort. Everyone in the room receives unlimited beverages throughout the resort and the mini fridge is restocked daily with a variety of items. 5. Location, Location, Location– The destination that you visit is the most important aspect of the vacation and should be an important consideration. Do you prefer the beach or the pool? Do you want to stay exclusively on property or explore the local surroundings? Once at an all-inclusive resort, sit back, relax and enjoy. Everything is taken care of for you so you never have to lift a finger. Of course, you can explore your surroundings more with excursions that are not included. A travel agent can help you plan these in advance, or you can work with the excursion desk on property to coordinate once you arrive. “If you want to see one country in detail, but only want to unpack once, an all-inclusive resort is a wonderful option,” said Jenifer Breaux, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in Lithia. “However, with so much information available on the internet, it is tough to know what options are available and what property is right for you. Consulting a travel agent will help you in selecting the best options for your vacation.” For more information or to be matched with the vacation of your dreams, please call Jenifer Breaux of Dream Vacations at 813.667.7000 or visit www.JBVacationPros.com. About Dream Vacations Launched in 2016, Dream Vacations A CruiseOne Company is a franchise opportunity that is part of World Travel Holdings, the world’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure Travel Company. Dream Vacations franchisees have unrivaled buying power to offer the best prices and exclusive offers when selling memorable vacation experiences such as cruises, resort stays and land tours.


Page 18

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Set Up My Solar Provides Clean, Cost-Effective Energy

By Nick Nahas

“The opportupeople can know that nity to help homethey have assurance owners save on that if they need sometheir energy costs thing, we will deliver on and invest in their alleviating their conhomes was one of cerns,” said Lane. “Not the major reasons just in the beginning to start Set Up My when they sign up, but Solar,” said owner long term. Five to 10 Frankie Lane. Lane years down the road started his Solar they have a warranty, Photo Courtesy of Set Up My Solar but at the same time Energy business Solar energy is clean and can save you back in 2016. they also have a compamoney. According to ny that can back it up Lane, Solar energy is clean energy and is and actually make sure that they have more cost effective than electric. Having what they need along the way.” the solar barrier installed on your roof can According to Lane, it costs zero outprotect it, as well as absorb the heat from of-pocket for solar, meaning that you are the sun, which can decrease your air con- essentially taking the money that you ditioning costs. Solar equipment also spent on energy each month and investadds more equity to your home. ing it directly into solar energy and equipAdditionally, there is a 30% tax credit to ment. They don’t take any down payconsumers who install solar equipment, ments, credit cards or checks up front. Lane said. Financing is available for anySigning the contract and doing permitting body with average income and credit. with them is all it takes to get solar. They Lane emphasizes building long-term offer a 10-year roof warranty as well. relationships/partnerships with his clients. Customers don’t save a lot of money in His company has a customer service the beginning, but as power companies department dedicated to taking calls, keep raising their rates they will eventualquestions and concerns. They have serv- ly start saving. Lane said that it typically ice-experienced managers as well as takes 5-10 years to see a return on your techs that are on call 24-7. They have investment. invested money, personnel, infrastructure This is the last year to take full and equipment so that the customer advantage of the solar energy tax credit, experience is what they desire, which is and the tariffs being applied next year will important when making a long-term affect prices of solar equipment. “Now is investment. the perfect time to invest in solar,” said The company also visits their cusLane. tomers proactively on a frequent basis. For more information, you can visit “We try to set up every department so SetUpMySolar.com.

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Volume 17, Issue 9


September 2018

Page 19

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Rabbi Mann Starts Shabbat Services At New Congregation Beth Shalom Post

Staff Report

Justice Intern at Congregation Mishkan Tefilah. This was preceded by two Rabbinic Internships at Congregation Betenu in Amherst, NH and Synagogue Adas Yoshuron in Rockland, ME. During his one-year internship with Congregation Betenu, he had a strong significant educational role and developed all-school programming appropriate for the developmental stages of kindergarten through seventh graders. He found ways for the older and younger students to work together, empowering the older students to be mentors and teachers. From August 2012 through May 2015, he taught Hebrew classes at Temple Sinai, a large Reform congregaRabbi Bryan Mann, a recent graduate of tion in Brookline MA. During that time, Hebrew College in Cewton Centre, MA, recently joined Congregation Beth Shalom as Bryan also led Kabbalat Shabbat and its new Rabbi. Ma’ariv services at Moishe Kavod House in Brookline and Keshet Boston. It is with great joy that Congregation During the summer of 2015 he Beth Shalom announces that Rabbi served as a Summer Chaplain Intern at Bryan Mann will join our Congregational Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Family on August 6, 2018. Boston. Since August 2015, Rabbi Bryan Sheila Fishman, chairperson of the has been studying in Jerusalem, where Rabbi Search committee said, "After a he is an Israel Fellow of T’ruah: The very long year, we are excited to Rabbinic Call for Human Rights. announce that Rabbi Bryan Mann will be Rabbi Bryan grew up in Penacook, joining Congregation Beth Shalom of Brandon on August 6. We are looking for- NH. His family were members of Temple Beth Jacob in Concord, where he attendward to a future of spiritual growth, excited Hebrew School, had his Bar Mitzvah, ing educational opportunities, and sharwas confirmed, and was active in the ing with our Jewish Community and NFTY youth group. He attended Temple beyond." University in Philadelphia, PA. Rabbi Bryan completed his rabbinic Rabbi Bryan’s first official Shabbat studies at Hebrew College of Newton service was held on Friday, August 17. Centre, MA and was ordained on June 3, Congregation Beth Shalom is located 2018. During his final three years of 706 Bryan Rd, Brandon. Call 681-6547. Rabbinic studies, he served as a Social

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Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Donate Blood Regularly For Personal And Community Health Benefits The next time you see OneBlood’s Big Red bus Bloodmobile in a parking lot, you might want to seriously think about stopping in to make a donation. We all know that by doing so, you help save other lives, but did you know that the one to benefit the most just might be you? The Osprey Observer recently hosted a blood drive and I started wondering about the benefits of the donation not only to the blood recipient, but also to the donor. There is no better feeling than knowing you have done something that might save a life and donating blood most certainly fills that niche. Feeling good about your unselfish Kerrie Hoening, Michelle Colesanti and act can help promote longevity of Marie Gilmore stand with the Big Red Bus OneBlood staff. Ten people your own life and helps to put you donated at the drive that the Osprey in a positive mood – not a bad start. Observer hosted on August 2. Denise Graf, Graphic Artist for ing a heart transplant), I recognized the paper said, “My dad has always each pint as a blessing. I will contindonated blood in the past. This ue donating every opportunity I get. It trained me into being eager to saves lives.” donate whenever there was an Prior to donating, you get a mini opportunity. While witnessing how health test – blood pressure taken, much blood Dad needed during his iron levels measured and temperature recent open heart surgeries (includ-

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depleted. It will quickly be replenished during the weeks following donation, but by regulating iron levels this way, it can prevent danger caused by too much iron on blood vessels and reduce the risk of diseases associated with blockage and other blood vessel abnormalities. Along with that, studies show that regular blood donors also had lower risks of cancer and mortality, again thanks to the lower levels of iron. Donating also helps to regulate cholesterol levels, accelerate wound healing and much more. In order to donate, you must be in general good health, 16 years old and over 110 pounds. Be a hero to someone. For more information or to make an appointment, visit www.oneblood.org.

body works hard to regenerate new blood cells. Donating blood regularly helps reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. When you donate, some of the iron in your body is

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Discovery Pass Partners Offer Hillsborough County Library Patrons Free Admission By Michelle Colesanti With a valid library card, you can now reserve a free admission or tour pass to select local museums and attractions. Each pass provides a one-time admission or tour to an attraction during a seven-day checkout period with your check-out receipt serving as your admission or tour pass. You can reserve a pass through the library’s catalog and check it out at your library branch with the same library card used to request them. The passes are available on a first-come, firstserved basis. One Discovery Pass may be checked out per adult library card at a time. You do not need to return anything to the library. Check with the following attractions for hours and holiday closures. Blackout dates and restrictions may also apply. Big Cat Rescue is home to about 80+ lions, tigers, bobcats, cougars, and other species, most of whom have been abandoned, abused, orphaned, saved from being turned into fur coats, or retired from performing acts. Good for admission for one guest age 10 or younger on a weekend Kids Tour. Reservations required for all tours and must be booked at https://bigcatrescue.org/tickets/. Enter the voucher code on your receipt at the time of purchase. The Florida Holocaust Museum honors the memory of the millions who

dren or one adult and three children.

suffered or died in the Holocaust. It is dedicated to teaching the members of all races and cultures the inherent worth and dignity of human life in order to prevent future genocides. Admission for up to five: two adults and three children under 18 in the same household. The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts is dedicated to exhibiting important photographic art as central to contemporary life and culture and collects, preserves, and exhibits historic and contemporary works by nationally and internationally known photographic artists. Admission for up to four: two adults and two children or one adult and three children. The Glazer Children’s Museum creates learning environments where children play, discover, and connect to the world around them to develop as lifelong learners and leaders. Admission for up to four: two adults and two chil-

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The Plant Museum features original opulent furnishings and artifacts in educational exhibits, transporting visitors to the late Victorian period, the beginning of Florida’s tourist industry, and the early years of Tampa. Admission for up to four: two adults and two children or one adult and three children. Not valid during the Victorian Christmas Stroll, December 1-23. Discover the joys of the great outdoors by visiting a Hillsborough County Conservation Park; the perfect place for your daily jog, walking the dog, or relaxing and being one with Mother Nature. Passes are provided by the Friends of the County Parks and Recreation Inc. Visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/residents/recreation-andculture/conservation/conservation-parks for a list of parks. Admission includes up to eight people in a single vehicle per pass. Pass gives you entrance, but does not cover additional activities/rentals etc.

Stageworks Theatre has a 35-year history of bringing the finest professional theatre to the Tampa Bay area and showcasing socially relevant plays. Admission for two to the same performance. Call 374-2416; ext. 1 for calendar and availability. The Straz Center is the largest performing arts center in the Southeast and the only one with an on-site performing arts conservatory. Passes will become available again once the fall season resumes. The Tampa Bay History Center is a Smithsonian Institution Affiliate and features three floors of permanent and temporary exhibits focusing on 12,000 years of our region's rich history. Admission for up to four: two adults and two children or one adult and three children. The Tampa Museum of Art, the region’s largest museum devoted to art of our time, has built a reputation for embracing contemporary photography and new media. Admission for up to four: two adults and two children or one adult and three children. Learn the Tampa Theatre's secrets, stories, art, and architecture with a ‘balcony to backstage tour of the historic movie palace. Good for a 90-minute walking tour and demonstration of the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. Bring receipt to Tampa Theatre Box Office at 711 N. Franklin St. between 11 - 11:30 a.m. the morning of the tour for admission. Check http://tampatheatre.org/tour/balcony-backstage-tour for dates. For more information, call 273-3652.


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Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

East Hillsborough Ducks Unlimited Chapter To Host Dinner And Auction

Elks Lodge 2672 of Ruskin Hosts Craft Fair To Support Local Charities

contribute it to Ducks Unlimited. From those humble beginnings, Ducks Unlimited (www.ducks.org) has conserved more than 14 million acres, thanks in part to contributions from more than a million current supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Wayne Tasler, East Highlighted at last year’s event Newsome High School Hillsborough Volunteer students Evan Smith and Area Chairman said, “In Joseph Layrisson were January, 2018 Ducks presented with the 2017 East Hillsborough Ducks Unlimited 2017 Volunteer of the Year Award. Also pictured is Mike Unlimited celebrated 81 Layrisson who supported their efforts. years of conservation The East Hillsborough Chapter of Ducks Unlimited (DU) of Hillsborough County, will host its annual Dinner and Auction on Thursday, October 4 at the Plant City Armory located at 4004 Airport Rd. in Plant City. Happy hour starts at Auctioneer Bobby Lee Acomb gets bids on one of the many auction items, all raising much needed funds for habitat 6 p.m. with dinner served preservation. at 7:15 p.m. Raffles and efforts. Join us as we celebrate 32 years auctions will follow after dinner. of wetlands conservation and restoration Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s here in Hillsborough County. The efforts largest non-profit organization dedicated evening will include door prizes, multiple to conserving North America's continually raffles and both live & silent auctions. disappearing waterfowl habitats. With We’ll have fishing and hunting trips, top farmland literally ‘blowing away’ during quality coolers, limited edition guns, and the horrific dust storms of the 1930’s Dust this year’s hottest DU merchandise availBowl, Ducks Unlimited was born in 1937 able.” as a first line effort to restore the wetFor tickets, sponsorship opportunities lands. or more information, contact Tasler at When World War II veterans returned wayne.tasler@gmail.com or 727-743home from their duties overseas, a 8810. You can also purchase tickets at ground swell of rank-and-file members www.ducks.org/florida/events/54680/eastemerged who wanted to make a positive hillsborough-dinner and follow the group difference in the world they had seen so on Facebook at ravaged by war. Through efforts such as www.facebook.com/groups/11451968253 the ‘Duk-A-Nikel’ program, individual 3474. hunting camps would raise money and

For over 150 and veterans in years, the our communities” Benevolent and The Elks Protective Order Lodge 2672 will of the Elks has host a craft show been dedicated on Saturday, to serving our felSeptember 29 and is open to the low citizens. Elks public from 10 are non-profit a.m.- 4 p.m. “The organizations craft show is an that invest in effort to raise their communimonies to support ties. “We help The Elks Lodge 2672 will host a craft show on community efforts build stronger Saturday, September 29 and also show communities and from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. case the multiimpact the lives tude of talent that we have in and around of so many through the charitable proour community,” Berman said. “There will grams we sponsor such as Florida State be over 40 vendors present from the surElks Youth Camp, Elks National rounding areas displaying their work such Foundation, and service to Veterans,” as jewelry designers, quilters, lamp maksaid Harvey Berman of Elks Lodge 2672 ers, photographers, stone masons, t-shirt in Ruskin. “We take on projects to help the unmet need of many in our communi- designers and other surprises. Berman hopes the craft show will ties and honor the sacrifice of our veterattract new members. “We are always ans.” hoping to attract new members to Berman is originally from New York, become Elks and assist in supporting the but joined the Elks while he was living in Maryland. “Presently, I’ve been a member surrounding communities,” Berman said. To learn more about Elks Lodge of Elks Lodge 2672 Ruskin for two years 2627 or to attend one of the meetings, and I hold the position of Chaplain,” visit Berman said. “Most people join the Elks organization because they believe in what www.elks.org/lodges/home.cfm?LodgeNu mber=2672 or you can contact Berman at we stand for our projects, programs and 645-2089. The Elks Lodge holds its meetgiving back so much more than we ings every second and fourth Tuesday of receive.” Berman encourages people to each month. The Elks Board meeting is come to the Elks Lodge’s events. “It’s a held at 6 p.m. and the Elks membership great opportunity learn a little more about meeting is held at 7:30 p.m. Elks Lodge what the Elks do,” Berman said,” “With 2627 is located at 1630 US Hwy 41S in our motto of Elks Care, Elks Share we Ruskin. are able to help so many kids, families

Staff Report

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9


See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 September 2018

Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

www.ospreyobserver.com

Osprey Observer Gives Summer Interns A Taste Of The Journalism World Each summer, the Osprey Observer gives students an opportunity to work in a real-world, professional newspaper setting and have their writing published. These Mia Cafaro students can be in college or high school and are interested in entering the journalism field. This summer, the Osprey Observer welcomed Cat Wright, Manuela Graf, Mia Cafaro and myself on to the staff.

Cat Wright

Cat Wright is a junior at Boise State University. At Boise State, Cat is studying Communications. She says she has thoughts of grad school but is unsure. She likes studying Communications because it provides a broad and versatile foundation to learn many specialized skills. Cat’s favorite part about working at the Osprey this summer was learning about the behind the scenes work that goes into a newspaper. She says editing the paper was the part she liked best. From working at the Osprey, Cat gained a more professional level of work experience by operating in a work environment where there are deadlines and time constraints.

By Sammie Green

Cat Wright To the staff at Osprey, Cat says, “I love you all and thank you for the opportunity. It meant the world the me to being able to come here and learn and learn I did.”

Manuela Graf

Manuela Graf is a senior at Newsome High School, looking to attend USF or FSU. Manuela took this internship at the Osprey to see what journalism is like in the real-world to see if this could be her potential major. She is very interested in environmental or international relations as well. Manuela also works on the Newsome newspaper staff. Manuela’s favorite part about working at the Osprey was the people. She loved how open everyone was and hearing how everyone got where they are today. While being at the Osprey this summer, Manuela gained experience writing on more professional topics. She said working for a rep

skills to continue improving her writing and also broadened her interviewing skills. To the staff at the Osprey, Mia says, “You have all been amazing and so nice and so helpful. It has been so fun to get to know the Manuela Graf Sammie Green other interns too. And shout-out to Michelle, she has utable business made her work harder been amazing.” and taught her so many new skills. Sammie Green To the staff at Osprey, Manuela I am a sophomore at the says, “Thank you for the opportunity. I University of Florida, studying got to learn about the community I live Telecommunication News. I chose this in where I did not pay attention to major because of my passion for writbefore. Especially to Michelle for helping and talking to people to learn their ing me a lot with articles and giving stories. My goal for the future is to be me feedback about my stories.” in the broadcast industry as a news Mia Cafaro anchor or sports reporter. Mia Cafaro is a junior at Newsome My favorite part about working at High School, looking to possibly attend the Osprey was how everyone was FSU, but is still unsure and keeping always so kind, welcoming and fun. As her options open. She is thinking of a an intern, I gained more knowledge future in journalism, and leans towards about writing, interviewing skills and sports journalism. Mia also works on the community as a whole. the Newsome newspaper staff. “I would like to thank everyone at Mia’s favorite part about working the Osprey for letting me come in the at the Osprey was all the new experioffice every day of the week and work ences she had. She said this was alongside you all. Thank you to much different than most jobs Michelle and Marie for giving me this teenagers have and liked getting more opportunity and thank you to Kathi for of the real-world experience. While sharing your office and introducing me working at the Osprey, Mia gained to the best spicy Thai food!”

Classes for high school Dual Enrollment, Associate of Arts and Associate of Science programs in high paying careers are ready for you now! Visit our Advisors in the Student Services Building at the Brandon Campus, 10451 Nancy Watkins Drive, Tampa, FL 33619 or send us an email at bradvising@hccfl.edu. Campus hours are 8:0 0 a.m. to 7:0 0 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; 8:0 0 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Friday. Visit www.hccfl.edu to apply for admission online!


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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9

Weird, Wacky And Wonderful Holidays- SEPTEMBER 2018

Cheese Pizza * Teddy Bear * Fortune Cookie * Mini Golf * Comic Book Days Did you know that there are an abundance of daily holidays and special days every month? Some are immersed in tradition, while others may be silly, bizarre, unique, special or inspirational. Unofficial Holidays are not traditionally marked on calendars but are celebrated by various groups and individuals. Some are designed to promote a cause or to recognize historical events not recognized officially, while others are fun holidays, generally intended to just be humorous. So, in the midst of our busy lives, maybe consider taking time to enjoy some of the entertaining but lesser-known holidays throughout the year. September brings many things – cooler weather (hopefully), back-toschool routines and babies. Babies? Yes, babies! While some sources state that August is the month with the most births, in fact, September wins this award. According to national data, September 9 -September 20 contains nine of the top 10 birthdays in America. With this being said, it’s only appropriate to celebrate Labor Day, observed every year on the first Monday in September. If you are looking for other random September trivia to impress your friends, September is the only month with the same number of letters in its name as the number of the month: it is the ninth month and has nine letters. If you are looking for random ways to celebrate this month, look no further! Not to sound too cheesy, but let’s start our celebration with National Cheese Pizza day on Wednesday, September 5. Did you know that Americans eat approximately 350 slices of pizza per second? Whether you prefer thin crust, deep dish, or stuffed crust, this is the day for Cheese pizza lovers to unite.

In the 1800s, the Italians considered pizza to be a meal eaten only by peasants. But, when a famous Baker created a margarita pizza for visiting royalty, they were impressed by the colors of the Italian flag represented by the pizza's white mozzarella cheese, red tomato sauce and green basil. Pizza became popular overnight. Today, pizza is one of the most loved meals in the U.S. and there are

hundreds of different pizzas and toppings, but it all started with the classic cheese pizza. So, if you want to get a ‘pizza-the-action’, maybe consider a trip to one of the many local pizza restaurants in our community, including Rosati’s located at 3437 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. No matter how you slice it, this day can’t be topped! If you need a cuddle, then National Teddy Bear day on Sunday, September 9 is the day for you. Teddy Bear Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate our most loyal childhood companions. The origin of this day dates back to the early 1900s and its history is connected to an American president. In November 1902, President Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt attended a bear hunt. During the hunt, Roosevelt saw a young bear cub, but when news spread that Roosevelt refused to kill the bear, the story

became famous and toy makers were inspired to create the first “Teddy’s Bear." By 1906, the teddy bear enthusiasm spread across the nation. It’s ‘un-bearable’ to think of a child without a faithful teddy bear companion. Consider honoring this American childhood tradition by donating to www.Safetybears4kids.com. Safety Bears 4 Kids is a faith-based compassion mission bringing comfort to abused and neglected children in Hillsborough County by the gift of a handmade teddy bear. If you’re not sure what your future holds in the month of September, you should perhaps consult the nearest fortune cookie. National Fortune Cookie Day is celebrated on Thursday, September 13 and is the perfect excuse to order some kung-pao chicken and pork fried rice. Traditionally, Chinese meals come with fortune cookies - a fun and motivating dessert that has become an essential ending to Chinese dinners nationwide. Maybe you will be encouraged by such things as “A closed mouth gathers no feet” or “If you are afraid to shake the dice, you will never throw a six.” Regardless, you should grab your closest phone and place your order! Although there are no shortages of Chinese restaurants, you may want to consider Hot Wok located at 1240 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon for this special day. If you’re fortune cookie advised you that you would be enjoying a round of miniature golf in your near future, then your wish has come true! Miniature Golf Day is recognized on Friday, September 21 and is the perfect way to spend quality time with friends and family. Did you know that miniature golf has been around since the 1800s? By the early 20th century, miniature golf courses gained popularity in America. So, even if you’re not feeling up to par, stop puttering around and grab the whole family ‘fore’ some hole-in-one action at Ace Golf Range located at 820 S.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Kings Ave. in Brandon. It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No, it’s National Comic Book Day, being honored by comic book lovers everywhere on Tuesday, September 25. The holiday celebrates one of America’s most famous literary icons —the comic book. These publications

originated in the U.S. in the 1930s. Today, comic books are traded and collected; in fact, whole conventions are attributed to this genre. Did you know that comic books are the most widely consumed forms of media in the 21st century? In 2017, comic books experienced the highest retail sale numbers in 15 years, with 8.5 million copies of the top 300 comic books sold. In addition, these books have inspired countless movies that have brought our superheroes to life. So grab your cape, your imagination and your favorite comic book and honor this special day. If you need to find a new comic book to read, jump in the Bat-Mobile and head over to Read More Comics located at 115 E Brandon Blvd A., in Brandon. September boasts many other fun holidays including, National Salami Day, Make Your Bed Day, National Peanut Day and Elephant Appreciation

Day, just to name a few. For a complete list, visit www.holidayinsights.com.


September 2018

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9

Community Service Forum Offered By The Community Roundtable This September

100 Women Who Care Launches A New Chapter In Riverview/ FishHawk

Students in Hillsborough County Hillsborough County Public Schools support need service hours The Community for many reasons Roundtable’s including graduation Community Service requirements, college Forum. A school guidapplications and ance counselor will be scholarships. on site to answer specifVolunteers are also ic questions regarding the life blood of many service hours paperwork local non-profits. It is and the Bright Future Photo courtesy of Steve Nickerson Scholarship program. for this reason that Students earn service hours at The Community Service hours are Community Service Forum sponsored Roundtable will host approved for volunteerby The Community Roundtable on a Community Service Thursday, September 27 from 6 to 8 ing with the attending p.m. at Brandon High School. Forum on Thursday, non-profits which are all September 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. designated as 501(c)(3). The forum will be held at Brandon Many local non-profits have agreed High School located at 1101 Victoria St. to participate including Center Place, We in Brandon. The event is free for all who Rock the Spectrum, Life’s Treasures wish to attend and will be held on the Thrift Store, F.R.I.E.N.D.S., The same evening as College Night. Community Pet Project, Impact and Janine Nickerson, the President of more. According to Nickerson, “We typiThe Community Roundtable said, “The cally have two to three dozen non-profits Community Roundtable created this attending.” event in November of 2013 to answer the Another Community Service Forum volunteer needs of both students and will take place in the spring. Nickerson non-profits. As an all-volunteer organizaexplained, “As students transition from tion, The Community Roundtable wants middle school (eighth grade) to high to encourage our youth to become lifeschool (ninth grade), they can begin long volunteers. By attending this semiobtaining service hours over the sumannual event, they are introduced to a mer.” variety of local non-profits. This way, they The Community Roundtable is an allcan find their passion in areas specializvolunteer organization that has been ing in environmental, soup kitchens, aniserving the Greater Brandon area for mal rescue and more.” over 60 years. Nickerson added, “Adults interested The Roundtable meets on the secin volunteer openings may want to drop ond Wednesday of each month at 6:30 by to become familiar with the different p.m. at Center Place in Brandon. Please Brandon area non-profits.” visit www.thecommunityroundtable.org.

The iconic Fred “It’s been amazing Rogers, lovingly known the community outpouras Mr. Rogers once ing and interest we have said “When I was a received in such a short boy and I would see period of time” Matice scary things in the stated. “Our Facebook news, my mother page is taking off and would say to me, ‘Look growing, and we are for the excited about our first helpers. Kickoff meeting next You will month.” always 100 Women Who Friends Amy Scolaro and Care is just as its name find Debbie Matice are people states: 100 Women launching a who are helping.’’’ And that is Who Care. They help Riverview/FishHawk just what two local women are Chapter of 100 women who 501c3 charities in the care. trying to accomplish: Being local community. The helpers. idea is to have at least 100 Women in the Debbie Matice, an agent with local group, that can donate time and funds real estate brokerage Yellowfin Realty, that will be given directly to the chosen came up with the idea. “I loved 100 local charity, making an immediate Women Who Care and was attending the impact. “The women meet only four times South Shore meetings, but I wanted to do a year, so the commitment is low while something in my area, too. I wanted to be the impact is huge and it comes without one of 100 Women Who Care right here.” time-consuming monthly meetings or So she set a plan in motion and filed the costly fundraisers.” Amy chimes in with necessary paperwork to get the chapter “We can easily budget our time and started. That is when she approached money, only four times a year, so the Amy Scolaro, office manager of Yellowfin pressure isn’t as great and there is less Realty and friend. Amy said “When time away from our families”. Debbie approached me about helping her If you are interested in learning more, and being a co-founder, I was thrilled. I please visit the 100 Women Who Care am always doing community works, work- Riverview/Fishhawk Facebook page at ing with 501c3s and was looking for facebook.com/100WomenWhoCareRiver something to get involved in. 100 Women viewFishawk. Who Care was a perfect fit for us both.” You can join Matice and Scolaro on Matice and Scolaro met with other chapWednesday September 12 at 6:30 p.m. ter leaders in the surrounding areas to get for the meeting at Cherry’s, 16144 an idea of how to best serve their comChurchview Dr. in Lithia. munity.

By Kathy L. Collins

Staff Report

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Candidate Forum For November Election

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Space. Personal Chef Amanda Magadan will demonstrate fabulous fall recipes for the group to enjoy. Tickets are $15 and must be purchased by September 1. Please call or text 417-5490 for tickets or information.

Registration And Sponsorships Available Now For Alafia Boat Parade

The Rotary Club of FishHawkRiverview announced the 35th Annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade and Chili Cook-Off to be held on Saturday, December 1 at 5 p.m. at the Riverview Civic Center. Sponsors are being sought at different levels and lighted boats to

dents. For participating in the Boat Parade, please contact Mike Broussard at Michael.broussard@flyinglocksmith.com. For more information, contact Jamie Simons at jsimons@pilka.com. Information and all registration forms can be found at alafiaboatparade.com.

New Season Kicks Off For Ye Royal ‘Female’ Krewe Of Charlotte

On Sunday September 16 at 2 p.m., Ye Royal Krewe of Congregation Beth Shalom, 706 Bryan Charlotte de Berry is an all Rd. in Brandon, is hosting a Candidate Interested females can attend the next meeting of Ye female Krewe of wenches Forum. You can meet and greet local Royal Krewe of Charlotte on Thursday, September 14 who participate in candidates. This is a non-partiat 7 p.m. at The Alley in Riverview. parades and donates san, friendly, venue, interested in d’oeuvres, wine, soda, water and time and talent to local charieducating voters. dessert. ties and causes. The new seaThe Candidates will make a Door prizes and prizes for most son kicks off in September and short presentation about themwins, most buncos and most losses. on the second Thursday meets selves and their platform. You To purchase tickets, call either of each month at 7 p.m. at The can compare the candidates and Wancio – 689-6548, Pat Marge Alley, 10221 Big Bend Rd. in decide for whom who you want Worthington – 655-1643 or Center Riverview. to vote. Place – 685-8888. New members are welA representative from the come. For more information, League of Women Voters will be BCWC Begins New Season Of please feel free to attend a on hand to explain the new Themed Luncheons meeting or visit www.kreweConstitutional Amendments. The Brandon Christian Women's ofcharlottedeberry.com. Become an educated voter by Connection is commencing the new coming to the Candidate Vet Hall Mural: A mural has recently been completed at Brandon season of themed luncheons Military Women Of Tampa Veterans Hall, 122 W. Clay Ave. in Brandon. A sponsor to Forum. donate sealant to protect the work of art is being sought. Please Bay, Unit #55 Of Military on Monday September 10 from 11 For more information call the contact Danny Fleary at 748-3144.Visit veteranschanginglivesoa.m.1 p.m. with ‘We will Remember’ Women Across The Nation office administrator at 681-6547. famerica.org. and the program will feature a presenMeets Military Women of Tampa Bay, Unit tation of patriotic music and readings Brandon Junior Woman’s Club Seeks parade down the Alafia River for the benwith John and Sandra Kubler. The efit of many onlookers. It is a $25 dona#55 (MWTB55) will meet September New Members speaker will be Betty Burgue. This tion to compete in the Boat Parade. 15 at 11 a.m. at Hawthorne Assisted The GFWC Brandon Junior inspirational luncheon will also feature Proceeds from the event will benefit local Living Facility, 859 W. Lumsden Rd. in Woman's Club will host its fall membera raffle of gift cards, door prizes and charities the FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Brandon. It is open to all military ship recruitment luncheon, ‘Now We're lunch for $15. First time guests pay Club supports, along with providing women of the armed forces with an Cooking!’ on Saturday, September 8 $10. All ladies welcome; no memberhonorable discharge or active duty. from 11 a.m.-1p.m. at the Brandon Event scholarships for local high school stuship required. Please plan on attendThe group keeps members ing this nondenominational friendly informed of veterans' affairs with an luncheon, which will be held at Bell emphasis on programs and benefits for Shoals Baptist Church in The Special women. Event Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Units and members participate in Brandon. community affairs, parades, veteran Please call Lillie at 740-0098 for events and celebrations and other information and a reservation patriotic activities. Camaraderie by Monday September 3. between members and services is emphasized. Monthly Meeting Of East For more information, call Jouay Hillsborough Democratic Club Koppari, President, at 684-1668. The September meeting of the Bunco Benefits Southern Company East Hillsborough Democratic Club will be Tuesday, September 11 at Beef Chorus O'Brady's, 4330 Bell Shoals Rd. in Southern Company Chorus will Valrico. Invite family and friends at 6 hold a Bunco Fundraiser on Monday, p.m. for meet & greet, meeting begins October 1 at enter Place, 619 at 6:30 p.m. September guest speaker Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. will be a member of the ACLU speakDoors open at 6 p.m.; game starts ing on Felon's Right. For further infor7 p.m. The cost is $15 and is open to mation, please visit www.easthillsboranyone over 21. oughdems.org. Ticket price includes heavy hors

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9

ni i M r o sF p o h s k r Wo cians, Social Musi g & More… Dancin

holding a dance on Saturday, September 8, 15, 22 and 29 at Strawberry Square. This dance will be social dancing on a 3,000 sq. ft. floating wood floor. These are social , anti e Coles ll e h dances which include ic com ed by M Compil spreyobserver. slow dances, waltzes, e@o michell line dances, cha-cha and rumbas, two-step and country

the spellbinding grace and daredevil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with the sensory majesty of a symphony orchestra performing the greatest holiday music of all time. CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY presents Wonderland is the perfect opportunity for the entire family to experience great holiday music, LIVE, while enjoying an Standing behind the Young Marines are the instrucedge of your seat cirBackpack Outreach Event tors Julie and Carlos Tyson. cus experience. Benefitted 1,100 Kids First Aid, CPR and Safety may be CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY The 20th Annual YMCA found at www.jewelssafety.com/. presents Wonderland is proBackpack Outreach Event held on duced by TCG July 28 at YMCA Camp Cristina, Congregation Beth Shalom Entertainment. provided free backpacks stuffed with Services Visit school supplies to 1,100 Greater Welcome the Sabbath at www.CirqueMusica.com, Brandon area students. Congregation Beth Shalom on Friday Facebook, or Twitter for more Each summer, the Tampa evenings at 7 p.m. Oneg, nosh and information. Tickets are on Metropolitan Area YMCA teams mingle follows. All welcome. Come to sale at the ticket office at up with the Emergency Care Help Selichot Service on Saturday, Yuengling Center, Organization (ECHO) to help preSeptember 15 at 7 p.m. Rabbi Mann Ticketmaster outlets, or qualified Greater Brandon area stuand the congregation welcome the Ticketmaster.com. Ticket dents, in grades K-12, with backof Awe in this moving service. Days prices are $25, $35, $55and packs stuffed with essential supplies The Tampa YMCA is committed to giving students the Call office at 681-6547 for reserva$85. Prices do not include for the school year. The YMCA supplies they need in order to succeed in school and held tion. Congregation Beth Shalom is Backpack Outreach Event is its 20th annual YMCA Backpack outreach event in July. facility fee or service located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. charges. To order tickets by designed for families facing financial slow, swing and free style. Come phone call 800-745-3000. hardship or recovering from job loss, dance to the music by DJ Ken Miller. Caring Family Home Needed For fire or another qualifying emergency. It will take place from 6:30-9:30 Sweet Dog Tampa Bay Young Marines Get During the event, each family p.m. at Strawberry Square, 4401 First Aid & Safety A young Pit Bull received free healthy snacks, compliPromenade Blvd. in Plant City. Training cross that was abanmentary vision and dental screenVisit strawberrysquaredancing.co doned and left with multiThe owners of Jewels ings, fun entertainment, a wood m. The cost is $6. No alcohol is to be ple bite wounds and lacFirst Aid & Safety gave workshop courbrought on property. Bring erations was found and the Tampa Bay Area tesy of Home your own snacks, drinks and turned in to Animal Young Marines instrucDepot and free what table service you will Medical Center, 1102 E. tions on CPR, the use of treats from Kona need. Bloomingdale Ave. in an AED (defibrillator) and Ice of Valrico. For directions from your Valrico. It was also general first aid. location, send email Ken undernourished and The Young Marine Music Maker Miller at pcsocialdanceheartworm positive. The program is a non-profit Workshops For club@inbox.com and dog was treated; wounds youth education and servMini-musicians include your name, email have healed and weight ice program for boys and Free workaddress and phone number. gained. She will always have scars. girls age 8 through the completion of shops for chilThe thought is that she was used as high school. dren ages 4-10 CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIa ‘bait dog’ for fighting. She has For more information on the to try instruDAY Presents come a long way and is less fearful Young Marines contact the unit comments like a Wonderland At Yuengling of other dogs, and now this very mander Brian Frank at 813-463trumpet, flute, Center sweet dog needs a caring family. 3130. guitar, drums, CIRQUE MUSICA HOLPlease call 654-6222 for more inforMore information about Jewels violin and more Cirque Musica Holiday will pres- IDAY presents Wonderland, mation on her. will take place ent Wonderland at the Yuengling for one spectacular peron the second Center on Sunday, December 16 formance in Tampa on at 7 p.m. Saturday of the Sunday, December 16 at 7 month October 13, November 10 p.m. It is a fun-filled concert experiand December 8 from 9:30-11 a.m. ence for the whole family featuring The workshops will take place at Celebrating the talented cast of Cirque Musica, Music Showcase, 402 Oakfield Dr. in 30 years accompanied by holiday songs perBrandon. 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September 2018

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Page 32

Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sports

Connection

657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com

By Nick Nahas and Photos courtesy of Kristin Carde

Bloomingdale Bulls Football Look For Third Straight Winning Season

Lance Alderson lining up in shotgun formation.

The Bulls defeated the Riverview Sharks 56-14 in the preseason opener.

The Bloomingdale Bulls football program is going for its third straight winning season, led by third-year head coach Max Warner. The Bulls had just one winning season prior to Warner’s hire in 2016. Warner, a former college coach at Virginia Tech, has changed the mentally of this program. In his first season, they went 6-4. The Bulls are coming off a 74 season and its third playoff appearance in school history last season. The Bulls have high expectations this season for not only themselves, but also from local high school football experts. “Our goal is to compete for the first district championship in school history and win the first playoff game(s) in school history,” said Warner. Bloomingdale had its first preseason game on August 17 against Riverview. The Bulls dominated the

Other key players include, Ethan Carde picking up Jalen Jackson after Sharks, beating Jackson scored a long touchdown. RB/DB Levi them 56-14. The Williams who carried the ball three Bulls scored touchdowns on eight of times for 44 yards and a TD in the win, their 10 offensive drives. “I thought we RB/LB Rodney Roseboro III (3 rushes played well in all three phases of the for 20 yards), WR Terrell Ferrell who game,” said Warner. “We have a very has several division 1 college offers on experienced group returning, and we the table, DB/WR Jalen Jackson (two look forward to getting better each catches for 45 yards and a TD), 6’8” week.” 330-pound offensive lineman Ethan The Bulls have a new starting quarCarde, and linebacker Landon Moody, terback at the helm in junior Lance Alderson. He went 8 for 13 for 87 yards and three touchdowns, and rushed five times for 32 yards and a touchdown in his debut. “Lance is really settling in at the heavy role of quarterback on our FishHawk Ranch team. He’s a really solid leader,” said Semi-Annual Indoor sophomore running back, Dominic Gonnella. “He leads by example and Shopping Bazaar that’s what we as a team love to see from our QB. But most of all he’s a playmaker.” The Palmetto Club

who led the team with 104 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions last season, as well as multi-sport athlete, Dominic Gonnella (5 rushes for 77 yards and a TD). Bloomingdale opens its regular season August 24 at rival Newsome. “Our expectations for this season are to bring a district title to Bloomingdale and to go to states to see what kind of greatness we can achieve together,” said Gonnella.

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September 2018

Page 33

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sports

Connection

By Nick Nahas And Photos Courtesy of Jimmy Rodriguez

Brandon 15U All-Stars Compete In Softball World Series The Brandon All-Star 15U happy that Softball Team won the 2018 Florida they got to Dixie State Tournament experience Championship and earned a spot in the Softball the Dixie Girls Softball World Series World Series.” in Alexandria, Louisiana where they The parrepresented the state of Florida. ents and The team had been together coaches were since the start of the summer, winable to raise ning the district and state champithe funds onships in the Dixie League in necBrandon. They are from Sadie Park off of Parsons Road as a part of the Brandon Velocity League. All-Star players were selected by a group of coaches from the three teams in the league after the recreational season. They came up a little bit short, but they still accomplished a lot. This was the first time in league hisThe Brandon All-Star 15U Softball Team won the 2018 Florida Dixie State tory that a team won states and it Tournament Championship and earned a spot in the Dixie Girls Softball was the first time ever having a World Series in Alexandria, Louisiana. This was the first time in league history that a team from Brandon won states and it was the first time ever team compete in the World Series. having a team compete in the World Series. They had a tough road being a recreational squad with many girls daughter, Alyssa Garcia, was on the essary to send the being 13 playing against older girls on team. “I was very proud of the girls,” he girls to Louisiana by getting sponsortravel ball teams. said. “They went out there every day ships and doing raffles. Sponsors The All-Stars were led by head and worked hard for two to three hours include The Hitting Academy in Brandon, coach Jimmy Rodriguez, whose grandper day in order to get prepared. I’m Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Brandon, Beef

O’Bradys in Seffner, Hamburger Mary’s in Brandon, Publix in Valrico and Orthopedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay. “We wanted to make sure that these girls had the ability to participate in these games and make their dream of playing in the World Series a reality,” said Rodriguez. Players include Danielle Broduer Oroca, Marie Kuti, Marisa Vargas, Hannah Booth, Trinity Sperry, Ella Anema, Alyssa Garcia, Kailee Lynn, Jaylee Kirschner, Rashelle Clark, Genesis Martell and Zoe Zernick. “It was an experience of a lifetime and I was ecstatic that I was able to do this with my players and my coaches,” said Rodriguez. “All the credit in the end goes to the girls. They fought hard and I give them all the credit in the world.”

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Page 34

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9

Spend A Day In The Country At The Women’s Care Welcomes Its New Doctor, Karem Alvarez, MD Annual Fox Squirrel Corn Maze Staff Report By Kathy L. Collins

Escape the more. You will city and visit the also be able to Eighth Annual browse arts, Fox Squirrel crafts and jewCorn Maze hostelry. There will ed by the Futch be pumpkin Family on their painting, balbeautiful Single loon art, sand R Ranch in Plant art and more. City. The country If you fun will take are looking Come out to the beautiful Futch place from for pumpFamily’s Single R Ranch in Plant City and visit the Fox Squirrel Saturday, kins, there Corn Maze. You will be able to October 6 is a great find the perfect pumpkin at the through Sunday, of variety famous pumpkin patch. October 28. You pumpkins can visit the ranch on Saturdays and on hand to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests select. Futch said, are asked to exit the ranch by 6 p.m. “Our pumpkin patch was named one of The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze is an the top five patches in the Tampa Bay annual tradition that features an awearea in 2014. Come pick out your favorite some corn maze. Test your problem-solv- pumpkin from our impressive line-up.” ing skills while working your way out of Admission to the Fox Squirrel Corn one of the best and most fun corn mazes Maze is $11 plus tax for adults 18 years around. Bring your friends and race to and older and $10 plus tax for children see who can make it out first. three to 17 years old. Children two years Janet Futch said, “The Fox Squirrel old and under are admitted for free. Corn Maze agritourism event is quickly Card carrying heroes get $2 off admisbecoming one of Central Florida’s most sion. popular autumn attractions.” Futch added, The Admission Booth accepts Cash, “There is something for everyone at this Visa, Mastercard and Discover. Please fun fall festival. You can ride the tractornote that the vendors accept Cash only pulled hayride, play some fun family and there are no ATMs on site. games and just relax to the sounds of The Single R Ranch is located at some good ol’ country music.” 3002 Charlie Taylor Rd. in historic Plant In addition, there will be vendors on City. For more information on this year’s hand offering tasty fun festival food such Fox Squirrel Corn Maze, please visit as mouth-watering BBQ, Cuban sandwww.foxsquirrelcornmaze.com. Make wiches, strawberry shortcake, roasted sure to like them on Facebook at corn, kettle corn, boiled peanuts and www.facebook.com/fscornmaze.

The team at Women’s Women’s Care has Care Florida’s Brandon, been offering health care to Lithia, Plant City and Big females in the Brandon Bend offices recently welarea for more than 30 comed Dr. Karem Alvarez, years, focusing on obstetwho received her underrics and gynecology, includgraduate degree at the ing in-office bone density University of Florida graduand mammography ating Magna Cum Laude. screenings and sonoShe then received her grams. Two of Women’s medical degree at New Care’s doctors are certified York Medical College and in Hormone Replacement was a four year national Therapy (HRT) and minor medical fellowship scholarin-office surgeries can be Women’s Care Florida ship recipient. She comperformed with the assisrecently welcomed new doctor Karem Alvarez to its tance of an anesthesiolopleted her residency at team. Winnie Palmer Hospital for gist at some locations. Flu Women and Babies in obstetrics and shots are also available for patients. gynecology, where she was selected to “Our goal is to offer high quality serve as Chief Resident. health care while making our patients feel Her areas of interest are high-risk comfortable,” said Dr. Denton, who obstetrics and minimally invasive gynecol- explained that the offices in each of the ogy, utilizing both laparoscopic and four locations have themed exam rooms. daVinci Robotic approaches. Additionally, The group also uses Patient Portals she has a special interest in infertility and to electronically store paperwork and adolescent gynecologic care. She was schedule appointments. published in the international journal of “Not only does the Patient Portal adolescent medicine and health as a comean that our patients can access inforauthor of research on barriers to adolesmation on their own schedule, it also cuts cent contraception use and adherence. down on office wait times,” said Denton. She also volunteers her time globally on Doctors from Women’s Care work at international medical mission trips. both Brandon Regional and St. Joseph’s Bilingual, she speaks fluent Spanish, South hospitals. and has a passion for traveling the world This month, Women’s Care is also with her husband. expanding its hours at the Brandon office, Alvarez, who joins six additional doclocated at 731 S. Parsons Ave., on tors and three nurse practitioners at Tuesdays and Wednesdays to make Women’s Care’s four area offices, will scheduling more convenient. For more, work mostly out of the group’s Big Bend visit www.womenscarefl.com or call 681and Brandon locations. 9171.

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September 2018

Page 35

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Beethoven’s Fifth Launches Florida Orchestra Season

By Kelly Smith

The four most Pick a threefamous notes in pack of piano music launch The pieces, including Florida Orchestra’s Gershwin’s 51st season Friday Rhapsody in Blue to Sunday, with Cuban jazz September 28-30. If pianist Aldo Lopezda da da dum is all Gavilan Friday to you know of Sunday, January 4Beethoven’s immor6; Anne-Marie tal Symphony No. 5, McDermott on then wait until you Mozart’s Piano hear the rest, an Concerto No. 27 uplifting journey from Violinist Esther Yoo debuts with The Florida Friday to Sunday, darkness to light that Orchestra on Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto February 22-24; Friday to Sunday, November 16-18. changed music forand one of the most ever, conducted by Music Director sought-after pianists in the world, Michael Francis. But why stop there? It’s Benjamin Grosvenor on Brahms’ Piano easy to Compose Your Own series of Concerto No. 1 Friday to Sunday, March concerts to last all season long. It’s just 29-31. $25 a ticket for some of the best reserved Violinist Esther Yoo is turning heads seats when you buy three or more conwith her talent, and she debuts with TFO certs (regularly $33 and $48 tickets). Mix on Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto Friday and match from 23 Tampa Bay Times to Sunday, November 16-18 with Sunday Masterworks and Raymond James Pops matinee. The conductor, composer and concerts. Here’s a guide: soloist are all women: Guest conductor Did you know The Florida Orchestra Gemma New leads TFO’s own had record attendance last season? No violinist Sarah Shellman as soloist in doubt tickets will go fast this season for Anna Clyne’s The Seamstress Friday to the ever-popular Holiday Pops Friday to Sunday, April 12-14 with Sunday matinee. Sunday, December 14-16, with two matiIn the Raymond James Pops series, nees featuring American Idol star and St. check out Women Rock, a tribute to the Pete native Michael Lynche; The Planets, women who changed rock ‘n’ roll forever with NASA images on a big screen Friday Saturday and Sunday, March 2-3. to Sunday, February 15-17; and The Choose from 23 classical and pops Music of John Williams on Saturday, programs at ComposeYourOwn.com. April 27 with a Saturday matinee. Princes Single tickets are available at floriand princesses of all ages with feel like daorchestra.org or 727-892-3337 and royalty at Disney in Concert – Tale as Old 800-662-7286. The orchestra regularly as Time, enhanced with film sequences performs at the Straz Center in Tampa, on a big screen Friday to Sunday, Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg, and November 2-4. Tickets may be limited. Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater.

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Page 36

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9


September 2018

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Mr. Wikfors

Teacher Of The Month

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corporate I had dreams of climbing the ree in business, but after graduating college with a deg king for that dream business substitute teaching while loo made sion lies in the classroom. I career, I found my true pas er oth ppy” in sales jobs and multiple attempts at being “ha ling as fee e hing gave me the sam “corporate” positions, but not being in the classroom.

r? What are your goals as a teache

I get the act on every single student I hope to make a lasting imp leave with to s kid my ssroom. I want each of pleasure of having in the cla erstanding und the and own goals at 100%, ir the r afte go to nce fide the con a learning the end, it’s the beginning of that failing at something is not e”. we have to learn to “los experience, and sometimes

r? What inspired you to be a teache

u’d be a had many people tell me “Yo Throughout my whole life I’ve ided to dec I as s my number one influencer n the true great teacher.” My mom wa see o als business to education. I’ve change my career path from have on a person, as many impact a great teacher can of mine to this day, and of my teachers are friends g me become who I I thank them often for helpin am today.

ents? What is one of your hidden tal

at singer or I wish I could say I was a gre a bad thing. is g lyin dancer, but I’ve been told

surprised to What would your students be find out about you? ra ago afte I had brain surgery 12 years snowstorm in my sledding accident during a n in a coma home state of NJ. (I was eve for almost two weeks!)

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Hillsborough County Public School District 4 Citizens Advisory Committee (D4CAC)

The Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) to SBHC was established in 1973 per state legislation mandating citizen participation. Though the law has sunset, SBHC continues the CAC in an advisory capacity due to the value it provides. Each SBHC board member appoints three citizens to the committee. In order to collect more feedback from SBHC’s District 4 CAC appointees, Ray Alzamora, Dawn Marshall and Kathi Hayes, are initiating and managing District 4 School Advisory Council (D4SAC). Its mission: “To better serve the students of Hillsborough County School District 4 by engaging members of our community to provide input for the improvement of schools.” The group is in its third year holding monthly meetings. The meetings rotate through the elementary, middle and high schools allowing each group to discuss important topics pertaining to each school level. The first 2018-19 meeting was held August 20 at Bloomingdale High School and was attended by D4CAC members, Melissa Snively current District 4 school board member, principals, teachers, PTSA members, parents and students. The group discussed the district’s success plan #WeClimbTogether, environmental testing updates, school transportation concerns, new bell times and shorter class time, end of course (EOC) testing schedule changes, proposed tax referendum for Tampa transportation initiative and other concerns related to schools. The next meetings are scheduled as follows: - September 18, 6:30 p.m. to discuss Middle Schools held at Rodgers Middle School Media Center located at 11910 Tucker Rd. in Riverview. - October 15, 6:30 p.m. to discuss Elementary Schools held at Dawson Elementary School Media Center

Page 37

located at 12961 Boggy Creek Dr. in Riverview. - November 8, 6:30 p.m. to discuss High Schools held at Brandon High School Media Center located at 1101 Victoria St.. in Brandon.

For more information about Hillsborough County School environmental testing, visit https://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/departments/31/safety-and-riskmanagement/about/. For more information about the D4CAC Committee, contact Christine Robbins at Dist4CAC@gmail.com or go to facebook.com/groups/ and search ‘D4CAC’.

Crosswalk And Pedestrian Safety

Just a reminder of crosswalk and pedestrian safety especially in school zones. It is the Florida state law to yield to pedestrians. Crosswalks should be clear of cars to allow pedestrians to cross quickly.


Page 38

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Raise Your Glass To New Bier Fest Event At Busch Gardens Toast to new traditions at Bier Fest, a new event at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, weekends from Saturday, August 25 through Sunday, September 16, including Labor Day. In blending the local Tampa Bay craft scene with Florida’s best thrill rides, Bier Fest creates a unique food and beer celebration. More than 100 beers from 60 different breweries around the world will rotate through the four-weekend festival. Bier Fest is included in park admission and features live entertainment and flavorful fare. Explore some of Florida’s best-known craft beers. Beer connoisseurs will also find an assortment of award-winning U.S. drafts and centuries-old European brews. During Bier Fest, the domestic and international selection will include beers from many breweries. Bier Fest also features a contemporary menu rooted in tradition and cultivated to meet Tampa Bay foodies’ sophisticated tastes. Themed culinary cabins will feature savory small-plate options that pair perfectly with beer. Two-bite burgers are always a hit and Das Sliders will have a burger for every taste with an all-beef burger; Cuban-style pork burger; and Impossible™ sliders – an all-natural, all-plant burger. German beers pair perfectly with selections at Hops & Handhelds including bite-sized Reuben croquettes, soft pretzel sticks with bacon beer-cheese

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dip, and mac and cheese fritters. Discover fresh fare at Seasonally Inspired where cool, crisp watermelon pairs with heirloom tomatoes and feta for an end-of-summer salad; fall’s first golden beets are roasted and tossed with pecans, goat cheese, and balsamic vinegar; and crispy duck glazed with sweet and spicy gochujang is paired with the last peaches of summer. At The Best of the Wurst, traditional German handheld ‘fast food’ has a new twist with curry wurst – knockwurst, fresh caraway slaw, and curry ketchup on a pita; brat wurst – spiced German sausage on a pretzel roll; and schnitzel – thin pork cutlet fried and topped with Swiss cheese and mushrooms on a pretzel roll. The best way to celebrate all the flavors of the event is with the purchase of a Bier Fest Sampler. Available in quantities of five or ten, Samplers start at $29.99 for a choice of any food or beverage sample throughout the festival. Pass Members can purchase an exclusive 12-item Sampler for the same price as a 10item Sampler. Food and beverage is not included with park admission and is available for an additional fee. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Visit www.buschgardens.com/tampa/events /bier-fest/.

Volume 17, Issue 9

Volunteers & Sponsors Needed For Annual Cards For Troops

By Kathy L. Collins

Center Place Fine get involved in this comArts and The munity effort. Area busiCommunity nesses and organizaRoundtable present tions can sponsor donathe 11th Annual Cards tions. You can promote For Troops on your business by proSaturday, October 6 viding a raffle item. The from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. funds from the raffle at Center Place locathelp to defray the cost ed at 619 Vonderburg of supplies and Dr. in Brandon. postage. Additionally, Members of the you can donate food for community, 16 years volunteers and provide and older, can come addresses of deployed together to assemble service members. Join Lisa Rodriguez (L ), Center thousands of cards for If you can help with Place Marketing Director and service men and Janine Nickerson (R ), President of any of the above, The Community Roundtable on women who are curplease contact Center Saturday, October 6 for the Annual rently deployed the Place. All contributions Cards For Troops Event at Center world over. No experiare tax deductible. Place in Brandon. ence is necessary. This is a free event for Rodriguez added, “This event is a the community. good fit as The Community Roundtable is Susan Saunders, a Stampin’ Up very supportive of our military. For Center Demonstrator, is this year’s chair. Place, this event allows volunteers to let According to Lisa Rodriguez, Marketing their inner artist shine as they help make Director for Center Place, “Susan sees these beautifully decorated holiday cards. this event as a win-win for our communiIf you have some time on Saturday, ty, military and Center Place as well as October 6, join us for this very special The Community Roundtable. With community event. October 6 is also MacDill in our backyard, this is one way National Card Day.” for everyone in our community to get Card For Troops was started in 2008. involved and say thank you to all those Since that time, over 25,000 cards have currently serving our country.” been created by area volunteers. Last year, 2,600 cards were created If you would like to become a sponby approximately 120 volunteers. Those sor, donate an item or volunteer, please who participate will create step-by-step contact Center Place at 685-8888 or instructional hand-made cards. The inside email cpfinearts@verizon.net. is left blank for the soldiers to write a perFor more information, please visit sonal sentiment to their families. www.centerplacebrandon.org. There are many ways that you can

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September 2018

Page 39

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Keeping Pets Safe When Temperatures Soar

By Dr. Jennifer Challenger DVM, MPH

As the temperature rises to extreme levels, ensuring that our pets are able to maintain proper body temperature is extremely important. Keep pets indoors with plenty of fresh water during the hottest times of the day. If your pets must remain outside, make sure they have access to water and shade at all times. Some pet owners have found that filling small children's pools with water for supervised outdoor play will help pets cool off. Fatal Mistakes - No matter how warm the weather gets, it goes without saying- NEVER leave your pet on a parked car. According to reports from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), even on mild days, when outdoor temperatures are 73 degrees F, the temperature inside a car can reach 120 degrees within 30 minutes. Avoiding Heat Stress - Dogs and cats can suffer from heat stress just like people. Very young, old, overweight and short-nosed pets are more susceptible. If your pet has had a previous history of cardiovascular or respiratory disorders, be extremely cautious as well. Healthy pets can have severe reactions to long exposure in the heat or even to short exposure if they are exerting themselves during a walk or run. After dark, animals can still overheat if they are too active. It is not a good idea to take a dog on a run or jog with you in hot weather at any time of the

S A V E

day or night. Jogging is for people, not dogs, they are not equipped to sweat and let off excess heat the way people can. Telltale Symptoms Some symptoms of heat stress or heat stroke include profuse panting and salivations, staring or an anxious expression, failure to respond to commands, warm dry skin, high fever, rapid heartbeat, fatigue, muscular weakness, collapse and bloody diarrhea. If your pet experiences any of the symptoms, try to reduce the body temperature by gradually immersing the pet’s body in cool water or applying ice packs to his head and neck. Get your pet to a veterinarian immediately after applying the cool water and ice packs. Rapid treatment for shock, brain swelling and other side effects of heat stroke is needed to prevent death and for a better chance of survival. To prevent heat stress in pets: make sure animals have plenty of clean, fresh water at all times; provide proper ventilation and air circulation for animals kept in kennels or pens; make sure your pen has shade cover when outdoors; avoid excessive exercise during hot weather and again, NEVER leave your pets in parked vehicles. Pets depend on us and give us unconditional love, so do your best to keep them cool during the months when weather is the hottest.

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Page 40

Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Saturated Soils And Improper Root Pruning Lead To Trees Falling

By Robert Northrop, UF IFAS – Hillsborough Extension Forester

During the the diameter past few weeks of the tree. it has been When roots raining in the under the Tampa Bay canopy of area. It has large trees been rainy a are cut, they lot, which is are more precausing local disposed to flooding, filling falling over. up storm water Saturated ponds and satsoil allows urating soils. roots to slide At the in the soil same time we making them have witnessed very unstanumerous ble. This is reports in the especially a news media problem in about of trees the shallow Trees managed properly provide numerous benefits falling. These soils or soils including clean air and water, beauty, shade, in addition to living longer. two events are with a high connected. water table often found in the Tampa One third of a tree is underground Bay area. This mix of improper prun– the roots. The roots not only bring ing of roots and excessive rainfall has moisture and important soil nutrients led to the reports of trees falling. up into the tree, but also form the People need trees. Managed foundation of the tree that keeps it properly trees are long-lived; provide upright. numerous benefits including clean air Scientists have shown that a tree’s and water, beauty and shade. They root system can extend out two to should to be managed professionally three times the distance of the canopy by ISA Certified Arborists. Do not trust or crown. The roots often come into your safety to someone untrained and conflict with building and road conexperienced in tree management. struction. As we remove the tree’s ‘Chuck With a Truck’ who knocks on roots to make way for buildings and your door wanting to trim you trees is roads we are destabilizing the entire not an inexpensive alternative to a tree. Professional arborists suggest professional arborist, but an invitation not cutting roots any closer than 5x to a serious problem.

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Tampa Jeep Krewe Spends $30,000 On Toys For Christmas In July Project

By Mia Cafaro

2019 Mazda CX-3 Fierce Competitor In Subcompact SUV Market

toys to achieve its goal of a $30,000 value. At each of the gatherings and socials members collected toy donations, and they raised money through raffles and comMembers of the Tampa Jeep Krewe pose with $5,000 worth of toys munity events bought for children at St. Joseph's Hospital. such as Yappy On July 27, $30,000 worth of toys Hour and bowling at The Alley. was delivered to St. Joseph’s Children’s The drive was organized by Teri Hospital by Tampa Jeep Krewe, a local Smith and Lisa Wheeler, the co-leadJeep organization of over 8,000 memers of event coordination for the bers. This was its fifth time participating Tampa Jeep Krewe, with the help of in the Christmas in July fundraiser, many other members. This is an which allows children in the hospital for important cause because children long periods of time to receive agestuck in the hospital often miss birthappropriate gifts, which can serve to days and Christmases at home. overcome the monotonous routine of The Christmas in July project can the hospital and lift the spirits of be participated in by any business, patients. individual or organization that wishes The members shopped for these to help out. St. Joseph’s passes out toys at three different local Walmart fliers each year detailing the types of locations on July 25, spending a total toys that would be good for patients to of about $16,000. They cleared the use. The unique aspect of this project shelves of the Walmarts on is that the children get to take the toys Bloomingdale, Brandon, and Dale home when they are discharged. Mabry. The volunteers from the Tampa “It’s not really like these are donaJeep Krewe who came to shop were tions to the hospital, they are donasorted into several categories, such as tions to the kids. It’s all for the kids,” toddler toys, electronics, and crafts. All said Wheeler. of the volunteers were enthusiastic If you would like to learn more and came ready to fill their carts to the about Tampa Jeep Krewe, brim. visit www.thejeepkreweinc.com. To The Tampa Jeep Krewe spent learn about the Christmas in July projthree months collecting the money and ect, go to www.sjhfoundation.org.

Mazda has trim). The centhe SUV market ter console and covered quite armrests underwell, from top to go a makeover bottom. It starts too. Other with the mid-size goodies include CX-9, the comauto a/c, 60/40 pact CX-5 and fold rear seat, 7trickling to the inch instrument subcompact display with 2019 CX-3. command conCX-3 (GT, FWD) Under its hood is a 2.0trol, trip computer and a Tires: 215/50R18 liter inline-4 cylinder tilt/telescopic steering colWheelbase: 101.2 inches engine developing 146 umn, 6-way manual driver Length: 168.3 inches Weight: 2,809 pounds horsepower (bump of 2 seat, push-button start and Suspension: MacPherson from previous) @ 6000 power moon roof. strut front, torsion beam rear rpm and 146 pounds-feet Dual front and side Steering: variable-assist of torque @ 2800 rpm airbags, side curtain power while coupled to a 6airbag, dynamic stability Fuel capacity: 12.7 gallons City: 29 mpg speed auto gearbox. Our and traction controls, four34 mpg Highway: front-wheel drive version wheel antilock brakes, hill Base price: $25,745 (all wheel is available) launch assist, side-impact Web site: was equipped with the door beams, rearview www.mazdausa.com direct-injection Skyactiv, camera, three-point safety which uses a torque belts for all, blind spot/rearboost via a high compression ratio to cross traffic alert and tire pressure moniincrease fuel economy. toring systems and daytime running lights For 2019, Mazda has incorporated come at no extra cost. some noticeable modifications to the CXAs the subcompact crossover SUV 3 such as a new seven-fin wing grille market grows with the Hyundai Kona, Kia design, chrome accents and LED tail Niro, Jeep Renegade and the all-new lamps. The cabin gets a standard all-new Nissan Kicks, the rivalry will become even electronic parking brake, rear center arm- intense. The Mazda CX-3 can definitely rest with cup holders, suede-like inserts, hold its own, thanks to a good-sized red air vent surrounds and pleated piping cabin for people- and cargo-hauling capaon leather seats (in the Grand Touring bilities, and great value for the money.

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Page 41

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Local Lithia Student Receives $2,000 Military Children Scholarship

Staff Report

One of the military were required to maintain a community’s premier benminimum 3.0 grade point efits has become even average, participate in volunmore valuable to 700 coltary school and community lege and high school stuactivities, demonstrate leaddents. The annual ership qualities, and write an Scholarships for Military essay on ‘With the developChildren Program winners ment of high speed internet have been announced you are now living in a world and the ‘Honor Roll’ is that is completely different impressive. Approximately than 20 years ago. What are 5,000 students applied for the pluses and minuses for the scholarships at comsociety and the family? How missary locations worldwould you address the Abigail Hall received a col- minuses?’ wide. lege scholarship through the Abigail Hall of Lithia is Abigail’s scholarship at Scholarships for Military a recipient of a $2,000 MacDill AFB was funded Children Program. college scholarship through the generosity of awarded at MacDill AFB. The base is one Fisher House Foundation. of over 250 commissaries operated The Fisher House Foundation adminworldwide by the Defense Commissary isters the Scholarships for Military Agency (DeCA). Children Program through Scholarship Abigail’s parents are Scott and Managers, a professional scholarship Michelle Hall. She is attending the management services organization. University of Oklahoma. Community Fisher House is known for building the activities include Band, Book Club, military comfort homes near military medArchaeology Club, National Honor ical facilities. As in prior year programs, Society, and Daycare Helper. the level of competition continues to be The Scholarships for Military Children very keen. Program was initiated in 2000 to award The cumulative GPA remains in the scholarships to graduating high school 3.7 to 3.9 range,” said Bernard T. Cote, seniors or college-enrolled students. The President of Scholarship Managers. “As scholarship program is open to qualified in all prior years, the caliber of the applisons and daughters of members of the cants to the ‘Scholarships for Military U.S. Armed Services including active Children Program’ continues to be a step duty, retirees, guard/reserves, as well as above those students who apply to the children of deceased military personnel. many other scholarship programs we Applications are turned in through comadminister. missaries. For more information, visit www.miliApplicants for the 2018 program taryscholar.org.

Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale Basketball Team Hosts 3-on-3 Tournament Fundraiser

By Nick Nahas

On Saturday, September 22, the Bloomingdale boys basketball program will be hosting fundraiser event competitions at the school’s gym. Events include a 3-on-3 basketball tournament. Three to six players are allowed on each team. Teams are guaranteed three games in a round-robin style tournament. The fee is $150 per team to enter. There will also be a Hot Shot Competition ($10 per participant entry) where contestants have 25 seconds to get as many points as they can, and a three-point shootout ($10 per participant entry). Winners of each competition will receive cash prizes. The more people that turn out, the bigger the pot will be. Participants must be 14 years or older to compete. Food will also be provided to the contestants. “It will be a fun and competitive atmosphere,” said Bulls head coach, Shawn Vanzant. “Anybody who loves basketball and wants to compete, we

will make it as fun as possible. This is a great way for us to raise money for our team.” Check in will be at 7:45 with a 9 a.m. start time. The registration deadline will is Wednesday, September 19. Participants need to pay at check-in to be able to play. Cash or checks are payable to “Bloomingdale Booster Club.” All proceeds will benefit the Bloomingdale boys basketball program. Donations are greatly appreciated and are tax deductible as well. The money will be used towards team meals, equipment needs, travel expenses, special events, player development opportunities program, summer camps, awards/recognition and numerous other areas. “I grew up playing three-on-three hoops, and I want to bring that back to Tampa,” said Vanzant. For more information, you can contact head coach Shawn Vanzant at shawn.Vanzant@SDHC.K12.FL.US. Here is the link to enter: https://t.co/fXDeodO01B.


September 2018

Page 43

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Tampa Bay History Center And Audubon Florida Partner On ‘A History Of Conservation’ Exhibit

Plant City Entertainment Opens 2018-2019 Season With Vanya And Sonia And Masha And Spike

would kill nestThe new ing birds to exhibit at the provide colorful Tampa Bay feathers for History Center, women’s hats. ‘A History of The activities Conservation: threatened to A Bird’s Eye wipe out some View,’ is preFlorida species sented in coland are no laboration with longer legal. the Audubon “The Florida’s incredible Coastal At the Tampa Bay History Center’s newest exhibit, diversity of Islands “A History of Conservation: A Bird’s Eye View,” you plant and aniSanctuaries. can see a wonderful collection of art and artifacts The exhibit, mal species, including this hand-colored etching, “Roseate Spoonbill in Flight,” by local artist, John Costin. which will run especially birds, also through enticed those who would do harm to February 10, 2019, highlights birdlife the environment, particularly the bird in Florida and the conservation moveand plume hunters of the late 19th ment in the Tampa Bay area. and early 20th centuries,” added KiteArtifacts featured in the exhibit Powell. trace both humankind’s reverence for The exhibit also features a ‘carand decimation of Florida’s avifauna, tonnage’ fragment which dates back along with the evolution of conservato 1070 B.C., featuring a hieroglyphic tion efforts in Tampa Bay. depicting a heron, a symbol ancient In the 18th and 19th centuries, Egyptians associated with creation naturalists such as Mark Catesby and and rebirth. John Adams The exhibit Audubon traalso traces versed Florida, Florida’s role in carefully drawthe birth of ing accurate Florida’s and portraits of the nation’s spoonbills, modern conherons and servation other birds. The movement, exhibit will feaincluding the ture the book, founding of the Florida Audubon The Natural History of Carolina, Society. You can see uniforms and Florida and the Bahama Islands, by equipment used by Florida’s early Mark Catesby which was first pubgame wardens as well as the local lished in 1731. It will also feature historic ornithological prints by local artist entities and agencies involved in Tampa Bay’s wildlife and water quality and Valrico resident, John Costin. “Florida’s environment has been a recovery and protection. The Tampa Bay History Center is draw for naturalists and artists for located at 801 Old Water Street in centuries,” said Rodney Kite-Powell, Tampa’s Channel District. Tickets for the Tampa Bay History Center’s curaadmission start at $10.95 for children tor of history. seven and up. Admission is free for The exhibit will also feature items children six and under. such as Victorian domed taxidermy For more information, please visit birds, a collection of rare egret feathwww.tampabayhistorycenter.org or ers and an egg collection. These call 228-0097. items were collected by hunters who

Plant City telling maid warns Entertainment will of impending danpresent Vanya and gers, and their Sonia and Masha movie star sister, and Spike Three Masha, arrives Sibliings. One Hot unexpectedly with Mess., this young, sexy boy September. The toy Spike, the comedy will be family is launched presented on into a rollicking Friday, September weekend of one14 and 21, upmanship, Saturday, exposed nerves, September 15 and and a lot of broPlant City Entertainment, Inc. will present ken mugs. 22 and Sunday, the Tony Award winning comedy Vanya September 16 and Vanya and and Sonia and Masha and Spike Three 23. Sonia and Masha Siblings. One Hot Mess this September. The Friday and Spike is and Saturday night shows will begin directed by Michael Mercer who has at 8 p.m. The Sunday matinees will been in local community theatre for a begin at 2 p.m. All shows will take while. Mercer taught drama at place at Plant City Entertainment, Bloomingdale Senior High School Inc. Theatre located at 101 N. until 2006. He then formed his own Thomas St. in historic downtown community theatre company, The Plant City. Frenzie-Life Theatre. Mercer has Plant City Entertainment is offerdirected the last three PCE musicals. ing an Opening Night Special of two Mercer said, “I am now at the tickets for $25. Regular tickets are helm of this very clever Christopher reasonably priced at $18 for Adults; Durang comedy and could not be $14 for Seniors (60 and older) and more excited. I really wanted to Students (under 18); and $12 for direct a show that was smart and PCE members and groups of 10 or witty but also one that tackles some more. Advance tickets can be purvery important themes. Hopefully, chased at Hardee’s Fashions located audiences will leave each performat 1501 N. Wheeler St. in Plant City ance laughing and also thinking and or at www.pceshows.com. feeling something.” Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Mercer added, “The cast is a Spike won the 2013 Tony Award for mixture of older and younger actors. Best Play. It is based on adult sibWe are having a blast exploring all lings Vanya and Sonia who reside in the possibilities at rehearsals.” their family home. They mourn their For more information on Plant lost dreams and missed opportuniCity Entertainment, please visit ties. When their often-wrong, fortune- www.pceshows.com.

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Page 44

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9


Bloomingdale/FishHawk

September 2018

Volume 17, Issue 9

Ph: 657-2418

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Students Benefit From David Weekley Homes School Supplies Drive

David Weekley Homes, the nation’s largest privately-held builder, hosted its fourth annual, companywide CA+RE School Supplies Drive in 17 cities across the country. Supplies were collected for Hillsborough Education Foundation, which is dedicated to over 200,000 students in Hillsborough County Public Schools by providing edu- David Weekley Team Members donated school supplies to Hillsborough Education Foundation. cational resources and financial assistance to give every student The School Supplies Drive is a the opportunity to achieve academic volunteer and philanthropic initiative of success. the company’s CARE program, which Approximately $900 in supplies joins team members with homeownwere collected from homeowners and ers, homebuyers, community partners business partners during the drive, and local nonprofit organizations to providing more than 1,100 pieces of live out its purpose of Building supplies needed for the school year. In Dreams, Enhancing Lives in each of addition, the Weekley Family the communities in which it builds. Foundation donated $5,000 to use toward classroom technology. TITLE Boxing “I am always amazed when I see Club Has the sheer volume of school supplies Moved To A that have been donated by David New Location Weekley Homes team members,” said In Fishhawk Nancy Glenn, builder service repreArea sentative with David Weekley Homes TITLE Boxing in Tampa. “To know that hundreds of Club offers children will benefit and be better premonthly or yearly pared to succeed because of this effort unlimited workout is really inspiring and makes me so classes. It is a proud of our company and its commitplace your dediment to enhancing lives.”

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Budget Blinds Has New Ownership

Mike and Adriane Wonderlin are the new owners of Budget Blinds of North Tampa, Land O Lakes and Brandon. After working for Budget Blinds for

10 years, Mike and his wife purchased the three Tampaarea franchises from the previous owners. The Budget Blinds showroom that serves Brandon and the surrounding areas is in Riverview at 10437 Gibsonton Dr. They have a second showroom in Tampa, on Fletcher Ave. in Tampa. Mike moved to Florida to work for Budget Blinds about 10 years ago. At that time, he had already been in the window treatment industry for eight years and was looking to get away from the cold Illinois winters. He took a Design Consultant position in Tampa and worked for the previous owners, The Trotters. As the business grew, Mike helped to hire and train all the new employees. Eventually expanding to 27 employees and two showrooms, the company had continued to put people first. The majority of employees have stayed with Budget Blinds for five plus years. the Trotters became grandparents and decided to retire, and approached Mike about buying the business. Founded in 1992, Budget Blinds today has more than 1100 franchises

Continued on next page


Page 46

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Business Column Continued................... in the US and Canada and has served Tampa Bay for almost 25 years. Adriane comes from a background in Retail Management, most recently running the Florida Market for Vans (VF Corp). She has an extensive background in Customer Service, HR and Operations that has made this transition to Budget Blinds go smoothly. Showroom hours are Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday’s 10 a.m.-3 p.m. To schedule a complimentary appointment in home consultation, call 4457121. Visit BudgetBlinds.com/Brandon.

By Michelle Colesanti

Join them as they encourage women to: GET UP to move past their challenges, DRESS UP to boost their confidence and self-image, and STEP UP into who they are designed to be. It will be an unforgettable day with fun activities and free giveaways. Cost is $34-$39 and will take place from 9 a.m.-12 Noon. High tea and light brunch is included and will take place at

Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Open Of Mobile Specialty Nursing Facility

Vital Line PICC and Vascular Services, Inc. recently celebrated its A Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting was recently held to welcome Vital Line PICC and opening during a ribbon Vascular Services, Inc. cutting with the Valrico the Empress Tea Room, 12924 N. Dale FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. Mabry, in Tampa. Bring a friend to enjoy Deborah and Adeyinka Awolowo networking and inspiration. Register on are the owners of the mobile skilled Eventbrite at: http:bit.ly/2018stepup. nursing facility that specializes in the placement of vascular devices such as Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters) lines, midlines and peripher- Advisory Group Claiming your Social Security beneal intravenous (IV) lines. They visit varifits at the wrong time could cost your ous facilities such as nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers and patient’s homes to place intravenous lines so that patients can start their IV medication therapy. The Awolowo’s utilize state of the art technology such as ‘ultrasound guidance’ and ‘tip confirmation systems’ so that vascular devices can be placed and used right away without the need for harmful x-rays. They also provide off-hour placement in facilities whose vascular access team Kris Beaird and Laura White-Join their leadership and coaching skills to bring an event to Tampa to have limited hours. encourage woman. The office is located at 5668 family tens of thousands of dollars. A Fishhawk Crossing Blvd., in Lithia. To seminar will be held at schedule and process your procedure The HCC campus at the 24/7, call 333-0666 or visit www.vitalpicc.com for more information. Regent on Tuesday, September 18 and Get Up, Dress Up, And Step Up! Thursday, September 27 (promptly) to help you With Kris Beaird & Laura White with these decisions. Plan On Saturday, September 8, Kris to be there by 5:45 p.m. Beaird and Laura White join their leadThis seminar is perfect for ership and coaching skills to bring a those 58-67 years old. dynamic, refreshing event to the Learn some of the women of Tampa Bay area with Get unknown strategies and principles Up, Dress Up, and Step Up!

Call for Pricing!

Volume 17, Issue 9

behind the proper timing of taking your Social Security benefits. The HCC campus at the Regent is located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave a message after 4:30 p.m.

MRI Associates Opens New Location In Brandon

MRI Associates, a new state-of-theart diagnostic imaging facility, will hold an open house at its new (seventh location) in Brandon on Thursday, September 13 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Along with facility tours, enjoy live entertainment, Matt Weis of ‘Boxcar Hollow,’ along with Surly Mermaid Food Truck, Beer, Wine and other beverages. You can also stop by anytime on September 13 between 9 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. for a radiologist and office tour meet and greet. Brandon MRI is located at 403 S. Kings Ave., Ste. 200. Call 210-8995 or visit http://mri.associates/brandon-mri/.

The Florida Aquarium Announces Museums On Us Partnership With Bank of America

The Florida Aquarium is proud to participate in the Museums on Us® program, sponsored by Bank of America, providing cardholders free access to some of the nation’s finest arts, cultural and educational institutions during the first full weekend of every month. “Our collaboration with Bank of America provides their cardholders with wonderful opportunities to connect with the rich plant and animal life unique to Florida and our blue planet,” said Roger Germann, President and CEO of The Florida Aquarium. To qualify for Museums on Us, Bank of America customers simply present their ATM, credit or check card and valid photo ID to gain free general admission to the museum. Free access is available on the following 2018 dates: Saturday and Sunday, September 1 & 2, October 6 & 7, November 3 & 4 and December 1 &2. For more on Museums on Us, please visit https://about.bankofamerica.com/en-us/what-guidesus/arts-and-culture/partners.html.

Order Little Caesar’s On New Mobile App

Little Caesars, the largest carryoutonly pizza chain in the United States, is offering the ‘easiest way to pizza’ thanks to its mobile app available for both iOS and Google devices, helping everyone spend more time outside enjoying the summer sun rather than waiting in line for their favorite pizza. Little Caesars’ mobile app allows customers to customize and order any pizza with their choice of toppings or choose from a variety of favorite menu options. Little Caesars restaurants in Florida are owned and operated by Sizzling Platter, the Utahbased restaurant management company with more than 430 restaurant units globally. Customers place an order and pre-pay via the Little Caesars mobile app. The app will notify the customer when the order is ready. When the customer arrives to the store, they skip the line and go directly to the Pizza Portal and input a three-digit pin or scan a QR code. Then, the door on the customer's secured compartment opens, and they take their hot, fresh order. The app is available for download via the App Store and Google Play.

Elder Law Basics: Planning For Your Pets, Loved Ones, And Treasures

On Wednesday, September 26 at 6:30-7:30 p.m., Elder Law Basics: Planning for Your Pets, Loved Ones and Treasures will be presented at the Bloomingdale Regional Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Learn about estate planning strategies and options to ensure that your loved ones, including your pets, are protected if you are unable to care for them, and ways you can leave your hard-earned treasures to the ones you love. Contact Chrissy Toth, Business Librarian at 273-3652.

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September 2018

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 47


Page 48

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 17, Issue 9

Local Farmers Feed Seniors And Host Pet Resource Center Shines With Public Markets At Tessera Volunteer Certification By Kate Quesada

It is no secret that ucts and several growers fresh, organic fruits and will provide tutorial prevegetables are good for sentations on subjects people of all ages and from coffee roasting to one local senior living flower arranging. There community has found a will also be live musical way to bring them to its entertainment. residents as well as the “We look forward to public. Tessera of our growing relationship Brandon recently with Tessera of Brandon teamed up with at least and are excited about six local family farms having our organic prodand vendors to deliver ucts on their menus mostly organic produce every day,” said to its kitchens and to Sweetwater Executive Tessera of Brandon, a senior liv- Director Yvette Rouse. host regular farmers ing community, is teaming up with markets open to the local farmers and vendors to offer “We are very proud to community. provide the freshest posfresh products and a regular farmer’s market to residents. “We are very sible organic vegetables pleased to provide residents with the and herbs to the greater Tampa area and freshest and best produce available and not just to Tessera. Serving all community at the same time support local farms and members to come together to learn and other area vendors,” said Kristin Kutac grow and enjoy fresh organic food, Ward, president and CEO of Solvere acquire sustainable living skills, support Senior Living, Tessera of Brandon’s manlocal agriculture and make new friends agement firm. “The farmer’s markets will are all high priorities for us.” be a way to serve both the residents and Tessera, housed in a state of the art, the community at large.” $28-million, 107,000 sq. ft. multi-story Farmers and vendors participating in building, is an assisted living and memory the program include Tampa’s Sweetwater care community offering 89 one and twoOrganic Community Farm, Ybor City’s bedroom assisted living apartments and Brisk Coffee, Tampa’s Just Hydrate, St. 49 memory care suites in a variety of floor Petersburg’s Working Cow Homemade plans. Ice Cream, Riverview’s Wolf’s Produce The next farmers market will take and Brandon’s Bloomingdale Florist. place Friday, October 19 from 4-7 p.m. Some of the items on offer include herbs, under a canopy of tents in Tessera’s main fair trade coffee, juices, ice cream, shercourtyard. Tessera is located at 1320 bets, dog friendly treats, flowers and seaOakfield Dr. In Brandon and can be sonal fruits and vegetables. Vendors will reached at 906-1210. For more informaoffer tents and tables with sample prodtion, visit www.tesserabrandon.com.

Staff Report

Pet Recource are involved in Center (PRC) every aspect of becomes only PRC operaopen-admission tions, from shelter in state to assisting in pet earn Points of enrichment Light volunteer and community service certification outreach to PRC joins an supporting vet elite group of services and organizations that pet adoptions. In 2017, have been nationPRC had more ally certified by Points of Light, PRC volunteer spends quality time with one of than 820 volthe dogs during PRC's new ROMP! program. unteers log the world's largest organization dedicated to volunteer serv20,480 hours at the shelter and sights ice, as a Service Enterprise program. have been set higher thanks to the new Service Enterprise, a three-year certi- certification. In the last week alone, PRC fication, signifies that organizations have had more than 110 volunteers log 630 the capability and hours with 25% of management expertthat time spent ise to strategically helping run a new use volunteers to pet enrichment proimprove the performgram called ance of their organiROMP! - Receiving zation. Outside Meaningful PRC is one of only four certified proPlaytime. grams in Florida, and is also the only But no matter what the task at hand open-admission shelter in the state to is for PRC volunteers, they all have one receive the certification. It took part in a goal in mind every time they don their rigorous 18-month process to earn the bright green volunteer t-shirts: keep the highly-coveted certification. During the pets happy and healthy until they find a extensive process, PRC integrated and loving, forever home. helped guide its volunteers in its overall Want to help PRC continue to enrich the lives of the pets in its care? Sign up to mission to care for and protect all of volunteer today. Hillsborough County's pets. Visit The work doesn't stop once the certiwww.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/resification is received though. PRC will continue to engage its volunteers to help sup- dents/animals-and-pets/volunteer-andhelp-pet-resources. port the shelter and its pets. Volunteers


September 2018

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

GET THE DIRT

WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT Rainwater Harvesting – Now’s A Good Time! Did you know that we offer triple workshops (rainwater harvesting, composting and microirrigation) nearly every month of the year at our office in Seffner? These educational programs are free to attend, one time only, as a Hillsborough County resident. If you have not attended, think about this: after the rainwater harvesting workshop, you will receive one free rain barrel that staff and Master Gardeners have drilled and spigoted. After composting, you receive a free compost bin, kitchen compost bucket and compost thermometer. After microirrigation, you receive a free microirrigation kit, hose nozzle and rain gauge. But, let’s focus on harvesting rainwater. At the rainwater harvesting workshop, you will learn that a rain barrel is any device that is used to collect rainwater mainly for landscape irrigation. The benefits of capturing rainwater include reductions in potable water use for a landscape, erosion and stormwater runoff. We will explain the reasons why these reductions are important to the environment and each of us along with how to make these reductions happen. Did you know that one inch of rain on a 1,000 square foot roof will yield 623 gallons of water? Yes, that’s hard to believe…until you get your rain barrel home, place it appropriately and the rain falls! With an average annual rainfall of approximately 50 inches, each household can save more than

... “Relax ke a t l ’l e w it.” care of

31,000 gallons a year with sufficient storage capacity. Attendees will learn how to make their own rain barrels, how to set up their barrel at home, the ideal locations with or without gutters and how to create a stable platform/base for their rain barrel. Attendees will also receive information on why an overflow is important and how to create one, how to connect multiple rain barrels and the maintenance needed. Instructions are provided about painting rain barrels, safety considerations and use of products to kill mosquito larvae. Harvested rainwater can be used on ornamental plants but not edibles and this will also be fully explained during the workshop. If you have not attended a rainwater harvesting workshop with us in the past, you may want to consider registering for one now. If you are at our office for one workshop, you may want to attend all three as they are on the same Saturday, back-toback. Pre-registration is required. Check out our website which contains the calendar of events at: http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/up coming-events/. For horticultural assistance, contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, 813-744-5519, or visit at 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584. We hope to see you at our upcoming workshops on September 8, October 6 and/or November 3, 2018. Remember to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat.

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Page 49

SCORE Chapter 203 Provides A Variety Of Services To Small Businesses

By Tatiana Ortiz

Owners working to brated its 50th year in develop a small busiMarch of this year. This ness or wanting more specific chapter helps growth, can find some between 65-100 new great supportive clients each month with its resouces through the 32 members. In addition, local SCORE Tampa SCORE Tampa Chapter Chapter 203, which 203 offers its services to serves clients in local chambers of comHillsborough County, merce and community and offers business educational organizations education and mentorserving the small busiing. ness community. For SCORE is a nationinstance, it judges the al nonprofit volunteer South Tampa Chamber of organization that SCORE Tampa Chapter 203, Commerce, Brandon Chairman Kit Werremeyer. became established in Chamber of Commerce 1964 by the United and Valrico/FishHawk States Small Business Chamber Small Business Administration (SBA) to of the Year Awards. assist small businesses The organization to build, grow and thrive. offers workshops includThe creation of it originally included the ing, Going into Business and Service Core of Retired Executives, Developing a Business Plan. Both which today it consists of more than workshops begin at 9 a.m. and cost 11,000 volunteers amongst the 320 $15. SCORE Tampa Chapter 203 also chapters in the United States who work teaches a free two-day course called or retired. To add, SCORE aims to Boots to Business, which is part of the assist small businesses get off the militaries transition program. A new ground, grow and achieve goals workshop called Understanding and through mentorship and education. Negotiating Construction Contracts will SCORE Tampa Chapter 203 be introduced this month and has a Chairman Kit Werremeyer shares the cost of $20. mission statement of this organization. For more information about regis“Our main mission would be to tering for upcoming workshops, receiveducate and mentor,” Werremeyer ing mentoring or volunteering, visit said. https://tampa.score.org. It is located at SCORE Tampa Chapter 203 2101 E. Palm Ave. Suite A in Tampa. became established in 1968. It celeCall 448-2311.


Page 50

Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Unique Enoch’s Journey Tattoo, Art Gallery & Studio Opens In Brandon

By Kelly Wise Valdes

Peter Erow is change,” said Erow. the son of a preach“When I realized I had er, raised in a small a different vision of town in Florida’s what the tattoo industry could be as panhandle in the middle of the Bible opposed to what is belt. In 2015, Erow now and has been for headed to the decades, I settled on Tampa area after the name, and more earning his degree specifically, the title of in legal studies, ‘studio,’ not parlor or however, because shop.” life is often unpreCombining the Peter Erow, owner of Enoch’s Journey dictable, Erow’s artistic talents of local Tattoo Studio and Art Gallery, is excited journey led him to artists and tattoo to offer customers an opportunity to return to his original appreciate and purchase local artwork artists in an artistic as well as a beautiful tattoo studio. gallery setting is what love – art. “I thought I could get a good job as a makes Enoch’s Journey unique. It proparalegal but after months of searching, I vides a venue for local artists to display and sell their work and a warm atmossettled for a nine-to-five job with Lowe's,” phere in the studio is inviting and friendly said Erow. “During that time I met the for tattoo clients. love of my life and married her in “We welcome everyone that walks-in November 2017. I then realized my pasthe same way and want to help them sion all my life had been art, but somedecide what they want to put on their where in all the legal studies and drownbody forever very carefully,” said Erow. ing myself in education that I lost the “My favorite part of running this business passion.” is getting to interact with people from all In January 2018, Erow decided to embrace his fervor for art and take a leap walks of life without there being any fear of faith and that is when Enoch’s Journey of being judged. Whether it is your perTattoo Studio and Art Gallery was born. sonal beliefs or how you look, you won’t The Book of Enoch is an apocryphal be judged in my studio.” book that describes Enoch's visions and Enoch’s Journey is open Monday to how God showed him a magnificent jour- Saturday from 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. Enoch’s ney. With a focused desire to bring a new Journey is located at 2010 S. Parsons vision of art to the community, Erow is Ave. in Brandon. For more information, now embarking on a journey of his own. visit www.enochsjourney.com or find it on “I went and studied every tattoo parFacebook by searching Enoch’s Journey lor in a 50 mile area and saw how they Tattoo Studio and Art Gallery, or you can did things and decided what I wanted to call the studio at 716-9290.

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September 2018

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 51

Bell Shoals Worship Choir Invited To Sing National Anthem For The Buccaneers

By Amanda Boston

The Bell year, and I look Shoals Worship forward to directing Choir will give an again this year, but encore performmy favorite part ance of the nationlast year was when al anthem for the our worship choir Buccaneers’ family had a sweet Monday Night prayer time togethFootball game on er right before we September 24 went out on the at Raymond field. We had the Jason Millsaps leads the opportunity to pray James Bell Shoals Worship Choir with and pray for Stadium. in the National Anthem at a That Buccaneers game in 2017. the Buccaneers evening the coordinators that Tampa Bay Buccaneers will take on the hosted us for the evening.” Pittsburgh Steelers at 8:15 p.m. During Since the Buccaneers organization halftime a special ceremony will be held does not have a waiting room large for Tony Dungy, a former head coach of enough to accommodate the entire the Buccaneers, inducting him into the worship choir, Millsaps had to limit it to prestigious ‘Ring of Honor.' 80 singers. Choir members signed up Before the game, the worship choir on a first come first serve basis, and a will perform a sound check on the field waiting list was created. at 5:30 p.m., followed by a dinner proMillsaps continued, “It is always a vided by the Buccaneers organization. blessing to be able to go outside the Then at 7:45 p.m., the choir will enter walls, and sometimes out of our comthe football field through the tunnel and fort zone, to represent Christ and Bell sing the National Anthem at 8:15 p.m. Shoals Baptist Church. Even in the After the anthem, the choir members midst of what some would say is conwill be escorted to reserved seats to troversial in the NFL, it is our privilege watch the game. and responsibility to show Christ in our Carole Fluhart, a choir member actions and words, and that's what we who participated in last year’s performdid.” ance, said, “It was thrilling to be in the Raymond James Stadium is locattunnel with the players at the start of ed at 4201 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in the game, a real treat.” Tampa. Further detail about the game Jason Millsaps, the pastor of music can be found at www.raymondand worship at Bell Shoals Baptist jamesstadium.com. For more informaChurch’s Brandon Campus, said, tion about Bell Shoals, please visit “Singing the anthem was awesome last www.bellshoals.com.

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Page 52

Volume 17, Issue 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

THE BEST HOMES

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