Two Sections, 44 Pages of Community News
Valrico
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October 2018 Volume 15, Issue 10 Ph: 657-2418 1 6
Y E A R S
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P U B L I S H I N G
Local Girl Scouts Receive Award For ‘It All Began With A Blanket’ Project
By Kate Quesada
so much that that blanket began our project of helping the homeless population, more specifically, women who had children that were homeless, and became our Silver Award project cause.” The girls in Fairley’s troop, Jazmyn Hakins, Katie Fairley, Brooke McElhaney, Cassie Adams and Leah Johnis, began their scouting journey as Daisy Scouts in kindergarten and are in their final year of Cadette Scouts before bridging to the next level. “The Silver Award is an individual award, but girls may work Members of Valrico’s Girl Scout Cadette Troop 1888, Jazmyn Hakins, Katie Fairley, Brooke McElhaney, Cassie Adams and Leah Johnis, recently completed their Silver Award project by helping the area homeless.
in small groups to work on a cause in the community that they feel they can do their part in having an impact on,” said Fairley. The group began working on the project they called ‘It All Began with a Blanket,’ eight months ago by learning about the area’s homeless population from Cheryl Hickman with the Women’s Resource Center at BayLife Church. They received information about a homeless outreach event and quickly made 100 ‘daypack’ bags to distribute filled with items including socks, water, a
Continued On Page 7
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Last December, two local girl scouts had a chance run-in that changed their lives and the lives of many others. The girls, who were with their scout leader, Valrico resident Jayne Fairley, met a homeless woman outside of Home Depot. When the woman told the girls that what she really needed was a blanket, they had an idea that developed into a very successful Silver Award project and last month impacted 20 people at the Womens’ Resource Center at BayLife Church. After meeting the lady at Home Depot, the girls, who are 14 years old and freshmen in high school, developed a passion for helping the homeless. “When we handed the lady the blankets, she hugged me and thanked me profusely and was crying,” said Fairley. “That impacted those two girls
Osprey Observer Advertising Rep Kerrie Hoening and Managing Editor Marie Gilmore presents Motion Chirotherapy owner Dr. Bob Lutz with a Valrio-opoly Game. The game is now available at local Walmart stores for $19.98. Valrico-opoly is a brand new game put out by Late ForThe Sky and features local landmarks. See full story on Page 10.
P O S I T I V E
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C O M M U N I T Y
N E W S
Campo YMCA And The Green Boutique Present Pepper’s Walk This October
By Kathy L. Collins
For the past Green Boutique. 10 years, Plaza She was diagBella in Valrico has nosed with breast held an Annual cancer more than Plaza Bella Goes 20 years ago. She Pink Walk For The was a two-time Cure. This year, breast cancer surPlaza Bella is joinvivor and then ing forces with the was diagnosed Campo Family with terminal lung YMCA in Valrico to cancer. She never host Pepper’s smoked. She was Walk. As in the an active particiJoin others and walk to honor cancer survivors past, 100 percent and remember Pepper McGowan and others pant in the Plaza who have been lost to cancer at Pepper’s of the proceeds Bella Goes Pink Walk this October 20. from the walk will Walks. be donated to organizations dedicated to Roz Creager, owner of Plaza Bella dealing with cancer related issues. and the Green Boutique said, “We will Pepper’s Walk will be held on also have raffle baskets at our store. Saturday, October 20 at 9 a.m., registraThese will be on display for two weeks tion begins at 8 a.m. The walk will begin prior to the walk. The winner’s name will at the Campo Family YMCA located at be drawn after the walk.” 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. Walkers Kavita Marballi with the Campo will travel to the Green Boutique located Family YMCA said, “Pepper was diagat 1032 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico and nosed more than 20 years ago. During back to the Campo Family YMCA. her long treatments, she made many Pre-registration is available now friends. We wish to honor her memory through October 8. Cost to register is with this walk.” $20. Children 15 years old and younger For more information about Pepper’s are free. For those who pre-register, you Walk, contact Marballi at kmarballi@tamget a T-shirt and swag bag both of which paymca.org. are provided by the Green Boutique. For those who register after October 8, you get a swag bag only. You can register In This online at www.tampaymca.org/campoIssue peppers-walk. In addition to the T-shirts and swag GEMS & JEANS BALL ..........................PG 3 bags, the Green Boutique will provide gifts to survivors of cancer. They will also STUDENT BECOMES TEACHER ...........PG 4 have pink bows that can be purchased to AMAZON STEM CAMP .......................PG 6 honor a loved one who has lost the fight with cancer. BUNCO FOR MOFFITT........................PG 8 One hundred percent of the proK9 MORRELL ....................................PG 11 ceeds from Pepper’s Walk will be donated to charities. The donations will benefit NOVEMBERFEST ..............................PG 15 the YMCA’s Livestrong Program, the EYE ON BUSINESS .....................PGS 25‐26 YMCA’s Pediatric Cancer Survivor Program, the American Cancer Society ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT................PG 41 and The Outreach Clinic. SPORTS CONNECTION......................PG 42 Pepper McGowan, for whom the walk is named, was a long-time member www.ospreyobserver.com of the Y and a valued customer at the
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Valrico Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
October 2018
Page 3
Valrico Edition
A Sister’s Legacy Aims To Empower And Educate Others On Breast Health By Tatiana Ortiz With it being she passed Breast Cancer away on Awareness month, April 8, 2013. the importance of In extenlearning the signs sion to A of abnormalities New You and becoming Pink knowledgeable in Boutique, to breast health can continue her be a life saver. sister’s legaWomen affected cy, Poole Owner Carol by breast cancer created Poole holds a porcan visit A New trait of her sister Lisa’s Pink You Pink Boutique Lisa Marie Sands-Minnifield who passed away and Petals of also founded A New You Pink Boutique in Brandon. Hope, a in Brandon to receive quality products and compassion- non-profit organization with a mission to ate care, which is essential to meet serve the needs of individuals and famiwomen’s physical and psychosocial lies affected by breast cancer. Visit needs. www.Lisaspinkpetalofhope.org for more A New You Pink Boutique was found- information. ed in November 2011, by Carol Poole Poole shared that she’s most and sister Lisa Marie Sands-Minnifield touched when providing breast care items after Lisa had been diagnosed with triple and the ladies’ faces transition from bronegative breast cancer and found it diffikenness into a smile, tears of joy and light cult to understand the path one should whispers. “I feel whole again. It’s like I’m take as she traveled through the journey looking into the eyes of my sister again,” such as medical options, post-surgical said Poole. Poole is a Board Certified garment care after surgery, and how to Mastectomy Fitter/Advocate and works to recover with dignity to live a new life as a ensure every lady that she assists ‘survivor’. Poole stated they both felt that regains that perfect fit/look. something had to be done to make a difA New You Pink Boutique carries a ference and began the work to create a variety of items such as post-surgical special place where newly diagnosed camisoles, mastectomy bras, breast prospatients and survivors could come togeth- theses, pocketed swimwear, wigs, breast er and share their experience, gain cancer apparel and more. It is located at knowledge and obtain the proper gar106 W. Robertson St. in Brandon. Open ment care. Tues - Thurs, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday 9 After a year and half of inspiring a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday by appointladies at A New You Pink Boutique, ment. Call 661-7465. Visit www.faceSands-Minnifield’s cancer returned and book.com/ANewYouPinkBoutique.
Sixth Annual Gems & Jeans Ball To Benefit The Sylvia Thomas Center
By Kathy L. Collins
The Sylvia Thomas Kershaw said, “The Center, a local non-profit Sylvia Thomas Center is devoted to serving the thrilled to once again needs of adoptive and foshost its Annual Gems & ter families, is hosting its Jeans Ball as a kickoff Sixth Annual Gems & for National Jeans Ball. The event will Adoption be held on Friday, Month. For November 2 at The Barn at over two Winthrop located at 11349 decades, You can enjoy live Bloomingdale Ave. in National music by the band, Riverview. Adoption Smakk, enjoy good The festivities begin at Month has been celefood, have fun and help the Sylvia Thomas Center. 7:30 p.m. Attendees will brated each November enjoy an evening filled with delicious to help raise awareness about the thoufood and drinks, fabulous entertainment sands of children and youth in foster by the band, Smakk, and a fantastic care who are awaiting their forever famisilent auction. All attendees will be lies.” entered into the jewelry raffle. Kershaw added, “This event allows Tickets to the Sixth Annual Gems & us the opportunity to raise awareness of Jeans Ball are $40 for individuals and the services and support we have avail$75 for couples. Tickets can be able for adoptive families all purchased by visiting while having a great time.” www.eventbrite.com or by calling The Sylvia Thomas Center is the Sylvia Thomas Center at a supportive and guiding 651-3150. resource for adoptive children Pearl Chiarenza, Community and their families in Hillsborough Liason for the Sylvia Thomas County. Since its inception in Center said, “We are excited to once 2000, the Sylvia Thomas Center has again have The Barn at Winthrop as our been providing services. Thanks to sucgreat venue. The beautiful indoor-outcessful therapeutic and supportive servdoor setting allows for plenty of space ices, the Sylvia Thomas Center has a for dancing in your fancy jeans, dress greater than 99 percent success rate at and cowboy boots.” Chiarenza added, keeping forever families together. “We are excited to announce that Daniel You can help them continue to proCrystal, The Trance Expert, will be on vide this important service by attending hand to entertain you with his hypnotic the Sixth Annual Gems & Jeans Ball on fun.” Friday, November 2. Mary Ann Kershaw, MPA, is the Please visit www.sylviathomascenCEO for the Sylvia Thomas Center. ter.org.
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Valrico Edition
Valrico Elementary Teacher Works With Former Principal
By Kate Quesada
As a first year receive an appliteacher, it isn’t always cation from easy to find your dream O’Sullivan, she job. But when made sure that FishHawk resident her former student Sidney O’Sullivan did not receive applied for a second any preferential grade teaching position treatment. at Valrico Elementary “After Miss School (VES), she had O’Sullivan a reference from somedropped off her one who knew her resume and a Sidney O’Sullivan, a new second grade vacancy opened when she was in eleteacher at Valrico Elementary School, mentary school; VES now works with her former principal Tricia up at Valrico, I Principal Tricia knew she was Simonsen. Simonsen. one I had to interview,” said Simonsen. Simonsen was the assistant principal “Hiring teachers is one of the most imporand then principal at Bevis Elementary tant aspects of my job and a responsibility when O’Sullivan attended the school from I take very seriously. Although I had fond 2002-2008, and has fond memories of memories of serving as Sidney’s princiteaching her. pal, Miss O’Sullivan landed the second “Sidney was a student that always grade teaching position solely on her own made a lasting impression on me,” said merit. As a highly qualified candidate, she Simonsen, who has worked in education was the perfect match for our school.” for 28 years, 15 as a principal. “She Simonsen lists O’Sullivan’s drive and worked hard as a student and took pride confidence as two of the qualities that in accomplishing great things right from make her a great teacher and states how the get-go in kindergarten.” excited she is to watch her former student O’Sullivan recently graduated from grow into a professional. the University of South Florida in only “It’s an honor for me to know that three years with an education degree, somewhere along her education path, and when she started thinking about she was inspired to become a teacher,” where she wanted to work, VES was at said Simonsen. “What a source of pride the top of her list. that is for me. Now, my role is to support “I knew this career was in my heart Sidney in being the best she can be. She and I had to go for it,” said O’Sullivan. “I is well on her way to success and her felt it would be an honor to work at Mrs. students already think ‘she’s the best.’” Simonsen’s school and was elated when Valrico Elementary School is located she called me for an interview.” at 609 S. Miller Rd. In Valrico and can be Although Simonsen was excited to reached at 744-6777.
Volume 15, Issue 10
October 2018
Valrico Edition
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We Buy C ins We also buy Stamp Collections, Proof Sets, Postcards, and Foreign Coins Buy • Sell • Estimates • Appraisals
CORBIN’S Stamp & Coin
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813-651-3266 corbincoin@verizon.net Mon-Fri 9am - 4pm Sat 9am - 1pm
Saturday, October 27 - 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 3315 Bryan Rd., Brandon Call the church office at 689-6849 for info.
40th Annual BOPC Car Show And Swap Meet
Saturday, October 27; 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Downtown City Park, C 119 W. Park St., Auburndale Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Pontiacs, and Cadillacs. Free admission to spectators. Visit www.oldsclubofflorida.com.
Homeschool Day At Cracker Country
Friday, November 2; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Interpreters dressed in historic outfits will lead students through history, crafts and hands-on activities. $8 ages 4 & up, children 3 & younger free. Advance ticket purchase recommended. Visit: http://crackercountry.org/index.php/come-visit/when-to-visit/homeschool-day
11th Annual Holy Innocent’s Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show
Saturday, November 3 - 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico Over 70 vendors will be showcasing and selling unique arts & crafts, novelties and baked goods. Fun activities for the kids.
Lithia Church Outdoor Market - Grace Community UMC
Saturday, November 10 – 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 5708 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia Jewelry handcrafted home décor, furniture renovations, glitter cups, wood signs, candles, wreaths and handmade hair bows. Vendor deadline is Wednesday, November7. Visit www.graceholidaymarket.com.
Made By Hand Brings Local Artisans Together
Saturday, November 17; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Firehouse Cultural Center, 101 1st Ave. NE, Ruskin Great holiday gift ideas. Purchase hand-made creations from 20 local artisans. Call the Firehouse Cultural Center at 645-7651 or visit www.facebook.com/FirehouseCulturalCenter for more info.
Regal Railways PresentsToy Train & Collectible Show
Saturday November 17; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. – Cost $5 adults; 12 & under free Hillsborough Fairgrounds, 215 Washer Rd., Dover Model trains, various hobbies, collectibles, die cast cars, greeting cards & more. Running train layout for the children to enjoy. Vendor interest - contact Joe at 727-244-1341, or visit www.regalrailways.com.
Knitted Knockers
Third Wednesday of Month; 5:30-7:30 p.m. BRH Classroom A, 262 S. Moon Ave., Brandon Interested in knitting? Help others by making special handmade breast prosthesis. For more info, call Lynette Sandrock at 300-1505. Visit www.knittedknockers.org.
The Riverview Hobby Club
Meets every Thursday; 9 a.m. Riverview Civic Center, 11020 Park Dr., Riverview Share interests in crocheting, knitting and other hobbies while enjoying coffee and one another's company. Call 505-7847 or 940-781-1946 for more info.
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
Parkinson's Support Group At Savanna Court Of Brandon
Third Tuesday of the Month; 6 p.m. Savanna Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.
Hawthorne Health & Rehab Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
October – Thursday, October 25; 2 p.m. November – Thursday, November 15; 2 p.m.; No Meeting in December 851 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon Monthly support group for Parkinson’s Disease & caregivers. For more information or to register, call 661-8998 - M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Congregation Beth Shalom
Shabbat Services – Friday; 7 p.m. Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. All welcome. 706 Bryan Rd., Brandon. Call 681-6547.
SouthShore Steppers Club
Chicago Steppin' classes meet each Wednesday from 7-8:30 p.m. Call or text 516-7258 To register or for more info.
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Valrico Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
All Children’s Receives $10,000 Donation As An Evening Of Hope Fosters Community As It Raises For Support Part Of Camp Amazon STEM Camp By Kate Quesada
ty to pursue their passions,” said Painter. The event was one of eight planned around the country as part of the Amazon Goes Gold program and was also attended by representatives from the American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO). Amazon’s Ruskin “We are incredifulfillment center hosted bly honored to have some important visitors hosted children and last month. Children their families from battling cancer at Johns Johns Hopkins All Hopkins All Children’s Children’s Hospital Hospital and their famiand are truly thankful Children battling cancer at Johns lies visited the center for all they do to supHopkins All Children’s Hospital for Camp Amazon, a attended Camp Amazon last month port children in our hands-on robotics day and participated in STEM activities at said community,” Amazon’s Ruskin fulfillment center. camp, as part of Rob Packett, director Amazon’s month-long of operations at Amazon’s Ruskin fulfillnational campaign to raise awareness ment center. “With Camp Amazon, we about childhood cancer. hope to provide young people with the During the camp, the children particitools and resources they need to build, pated in hands-on science, technology, imagine and innovate.” engineering and math (STEM) activities According to the American Childhood including building and testing their own Cancer Organization, childhood cancer is robot cars. the leading cause of death by disease for “They were treated to a behind-thechildren in the United States, yet there’s a scenes tour of the center and watched disparity between the amount of federal how Amazon associates work along side funding for childhood cancer research robotics to pick, pack and ship customer and adult cancer research,” said Painter, orders,” said Media Representative who explained that Amazon wants to help Lauren Painter, who added that each rectify that. child also took home a small box of Amazon’s Tampa Fulfillment Center STEM toys. is located at 3350 Laurel Ridge Ave. in At the end of the camp, Amazon Ruskin. For more information on Johns made a donation of $10,000 to the pediHopkins All Children’s Hospital, visit atric oncology department at the hospital. www.hopkinsallchildrens.org. “So that every child will an opportuni-
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option to participate in a silent auction. ‘This evening is one of the largest fundraisers and brings the community together to share stories of neighbors helping neighbors,” said Brewer. The formal portion of Pictured from last year’s Evening of Hope is the Tampa the program will be held Connection group who was instrumental in the rebranding from 8-9 p.m. and will of the Angel Foundation. highlight three families The Angel Foundation, formerly who have received support from the known as the Brandon Foundation, Angel Foundation this year. Additionally, invites you its 13th annual Evening of the foundation will recognize its communiHope on Friday, November 2 held at The ty business partners and volunteers for Regent in Brandon. their contributions to support the welfare The nonprofit offers assistance to of others. families affected by life-threatening ill“This year’s theme of Fire and Ice will nesses or catastrophic events such as be visually stunning,” said Brewer. “And fires and floods, by matching families with represents families who have gone Angel Teams made up of local business through the fire (a crisis) and have come owners and volunteers who can help. out stronger on the other side.” The Angel Foundation’s Executive She continued, “In this fast-paced Director Liz Brewer, said, “We changed world, people’s hearts can go cold and the name earlier this year because everybecome cynical, but seeing how a comone associates us with the Angel promunity pulls together to help others in gram, so it made sense to change the their time of crisis can melt the ice and name and make it clear that is our priwarm their hearts.” mary focus.” Tickets and table sponsorships are The fundraiser begins at 7 p.m. with available at www.BrandonFoundation.org. a VIP reception at 6:30 p.m. for event The Regent is located at 6437 Watson sponsors. This year’s special guest will be Rd. in Riverview. For information, call Channel 10’s Allison Kropff. Like in years 689-6889 or like Angel Foundation past, the evening commences with a Facebook page. An Evening of Hope is social hour where guests stroll through sponsored by Brandon Regional Hospital the ballroom socializing and sampling fine & The Physicians of Brandon Regional, wines and fancy fare from local restauThe Regent, Extravaganza Productions rants. Live music will stream from Incorporated (EPI), Tampa Bay Times Tampa’s premier jazz ensemble ‘Standing and Winthrop Town Center. 8 Count’ while guests also have the
October 2018
Page 7
Valrico Edition
Hillsborough County Fair Offers ‘Good Times And Country Rhymes’
Staff Report
market steer and market lamb show, in addition to a market swine and market turkey show and sale. Buyers are welcome to support these amazing youth and purchase one of these market livestock projects. Grandstand events on October 19 and 20, will feature the Rodeo with fast action on horseback and courageous bull riders. The Truck and Tractor Pull Come out to the Hillsborough County Fair is the featured grandstand Thursday-Sunday, October 18-21 and 25-28. event on October 26 and 27. The famous Demolition The 2018 Greater Hillsborough Derby will round out the grandstand County Fair opens Thursday, October 18 events on Sunday October 2 with cars for two weekends of fun and entertaincrashing into each other until the last one ment. This year’s theme is ‘Good Times is declared the champion. and Country Rhymes.’ The fair will run Grandstand events are only $10 folThursday to Sunday, October 18-21 and 25-28. Adult admission is $7, students K - lowing paid admission to the Fair. Purchase tickets in advance from one of 12 $5 and seniors are $4, five and under our cooperating merchant locations (listed are free. Parking is free. Opening Day online) for $10 and admission to the Fair (October 18) is dollar day. Admission and is free. rides are $1 each. The Hometown Hillsborough area, Livestock shows, carnival rides by offers a 2,500 sq. ft. building built to repliArnold’s Amusements and fair food are a staple at this annual event and the excite- cate a traditional on Farm Packing Shed housing many of the tools and equipment ment doesn't stop there. Free entertainused in days gone by. The East ment includes Robinson's Racing and Hillsborough County Historical Society will Swimming Pigs. highlight the history of area churches in The popular Firefighter Show returns the building this year. featuring educational entertainment. Ride armbands are available every Enjoy the show as firefighter extraordiday for $20. Discounted Ride Armbands naire Neal Snyder puts his young voluncan be purchased online for $15 by visitteers through their training. ing www.HillsboroughCountyFair.com. A circus returns bringing thrills and The Fairgrounds are located at 215 amazing circus acts. Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. Market show weekend will include a
Girl Scouts...Continued From Page 1
By Kate Quesada
granola bar or pack of crackers, gum, body cleansing towelettes, mosquito wipes and a caring card offering the number to Hillsborough County resources. “That was the first step,” said Fairley. The girls then shifted their focus to single mothers and spent the last few months coming up with a plan to help women in transition housing as they learn to juggle work and provide meals for their families on $300 a month assistance. They created a meal plan, shopping lists and tips and a cookbook with a month long meal plan and tips on how to shop wisely, buy in bulk and how to use portion control to budget for a month. They created 20 of the cookbooks and put together a laundry basket of items not covered by the WIC program, including a brand new crock pot, laundry detergent, household cleaner, toothbrushes and toothpaste, salt, pepper and basic seasonings and baggies. Then last month, they presented the 20 laundry baskets to women at the Women’s Resource Center at BayLife
Church. “This project was truly an eye opening experience for the girls,” said Fairley. “Most importantly, it taught them that one person, regardless of age, can make a difference in the lives of others and one of the best gifts you can give to others, and to yourself, is the gift of your time and compassion.” According to Fairley, the project has helped the girls learn the challenges many women in our community suffer and has inspired them to do more to help others. “It motivates me to do more in the future and to be more thankful,” said McElhaney, who attends Seffner Christian Academy. “In the future, I would like to help others more to get back on their feet, make more smiles each day and spread the love and hopeful word of Christ.” For more information on becoming a Girl Scout or to volunteer, visit www.gswcf.org.
11/14/18
11/14/18
LOCALLY OWNED and OPERATED
Page 8
Valrico Edition
Osprey Observer Bunco Raises Funds For Miles For Moffitt Walk/Run Team
By Michelle Colesanti
Where can you get support the a night out with your research efforts of friends, meet new ones Miles for Moffitt. along the way, and get This year, we walk to play Bunco for a for friends, family good cause for only and even staff $25? The Osprey members who are getting treatment at Observer staff and its the top research sponsors will host a facility,” expressed Bunco editor Marie Night on Enjoy a night out playing Gilmore. “We are Thursday, Bunco on Thursday, November November 1 while supporting fortunate to have cancer research. The such a significant 1 to raise Osprey Observer’s source of research funds for the ‘MaKEITHappen’ team will be upcoming walking in the Miles for Moffitt Walk/Run in our community or Saturday, December 8. and hope that our Miles for Moffitt efforts can make a difference towards Walk/Run. Social hour (time to eat and finding a cure.” check out all the great raffle prizes) will “We are thankful to The Bridges begin at 6 p.m. and bunco play at 7 for donating space to host this event, p.m. Lake Brandon Village and Brandon Bunco will take place at The South Chick-fil-A and Dynamic Painting Bridges, located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. for their loyal support of our efforts both in Riverview (across from Winthrop now and in the past,” said Gilmore. Town Center). The Osprey Observer’s Team There will be plenty of good food and wine, which is included in the price. ‘MaKEITHappen’ welcomes you to join us. You can sign up at Prizes will be given out to Bunco winhttp://support.moffitt.org/site/TR/Milesfor ners. To help further the cause, a lot of Moffitt/General?team_id=1623&pg=tea great prizes will be raffled, along with m&fr_id=1070. silent auction items. Bunco tickets are available at the All of the money raised will go Osprey Observer office located at 918 toward the Miles for Moffitt Walk/Run Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Tickets will be limitwhich will take place at a new location ed so reserve yours quickly. If you in Tampa at Amalie Arena's Ford would like tickets, please call the office Thunder Alley on Saturday, December at 657-2418 or email michelle@osprey8. observer.com. Checks can be made out This year’s goal of the walk is to to the Moffitt Cancer Center raise $2 million. Foundation. “The Osprey Observer is proud to
Volume 15, Issue 10
October 2018
Page 9
Valrico Edition
Third Annual Buddy Walk Celebrates Down Syndrome Awareness
Staff Report
F.R.I.E.N.D.S. groups, social clubs, and family DOWN SYNDROME activities. For young parents, the WEST FLORIDA group strives to provide a safe (FDSWF) together with place where the kids can come the National Down together and the parents feel Syndrome Society comfortable. The (NDSS) will hold its third playgroup Baby Friends (birth annual FDSWF BUDDY to 5 years) brings parents WALK® at Raymond together with the baby to James Stadium on socialize, share information Saturday, October 27, and enjoy being a new from 1-5 p.m. More than parent. For tweens and 2,500 families, teenagers, there is friends, and professionals are Dream Tweens (6 anticipated to attend this event years to 14 years) that to help raise meets quarterly for fun awareness and advocate for outings. For adults, it is individuals with Down synall about getting them drome. The Buddy Walk was out of the house. After created by the NDSS in high school, social 1995, to celebrate October events disappear and as Down Syndrome they become isolated, Awareness Month and has lonely and grown from 17 walks depressed. Friends Self to more than Advocates Club or F.S.C. 250 walks last is year. Funds raised are for all special needs adults used to over age 15; and not just support FDSWF's many Down syndrome. For this programs and activities, age group, FDSWF hosts with a portion of the a fun monthly dance held funds going to the NDSS at Livingstone Academy’s to support national initiaBloomingdale campus tives. and will soon offer The FDSWF mission is dances in Pinellas to provide educational County. It plans to open materials and support servits own Down Syndrome ices to families who Center and offer servichave been impacted by es such as a daycare, an Down syndrome; while activity center, and promoting community intean adult day program. gration. Sponsors, vendors Education and advoand in-kind donations for cacy is another important raffles, as well as volunarea it works toward as teers to help with the well as changing people’s Buddy Walk are being Sponsors, vendors and walkers are sought to walk sought. Your help is attitudes. in the third annual Buddy It can be very lonely greatly appreciated. Walk which will take place being a special needs par- on Saturday, October 27 at Visit www.dsent, so the group combats Raymond James Stadium. stride.org/fdswfbuddythis by offering fun playwalk to sign up.
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Page 10
Volume 15, Issue 10
Valrico Edition
Valrico-Opoly Is Creative Gift Idea For Friends And Family
Staff Report
Valrico-opoly of family fun, and is a brand new there is a little game put out by something for Late ForThe Sky, every Valrico resiand it is arriving dent. just in time for the Buy your holiday season. It favorite Valrico properties and will make the perincrease your rent fect gift for friends by collecting city and family who blocks and trading vacation or live in them in for keys to the Valrico area. the city. Sound All spaces on the easy? Well, add in board are places some traffic jams, that you have visproperty tax and ited, and things parking fines and that you know A great holiday gift idea for family and friends it gets a little more and love. The in the Valrico area is the new game, Valricogame is exclusive- Opoly. Enjoy a family-friendly familiar game difficult and a lot ly available for with a local twist. It is exclusively available at more fun. the Bloomingdale Walmart. So choose $19.98 at the your favorite token and advance to GO Bloomingdale Walmart, located at 2140 VALRICO! You may soon be the Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Stop by Mayor… or out of the game for drinking and pick up your copy today. too much coffee at The New York Diner. While it is impossible to include This is Valrico and it is your roll. everything, as you play the Valrico verAccording to Jessica Staub, Office sion of the Monopoly game, you will find Administrator from Late ForThe Sky, many local places throughout Valrico “We have an experienced research tucked away in the box. team that reviews each city, and uses On your trip around the ValricoOpoly board, you may find yourself hun- online reviews, visitor’s guides, chambers of commerce sites, and local blogs gry when stopping on The Landing Bar to create a list of places that locals (and & Grill, The New York Diner or La Villa visitors) know and love. We are also Mexican Grill spaces. You may find constantly working on new titles, and yourself at T Marie’s Sunday Market and Topper’s Creamery. You might even have more planned for Florida, so stay tuned.” learn about some businesses you are For more information on Late For not familiar with or local non-profits such The Sky, visit www.lateforthesky.com. as the Florida Big Dog Rescue. It is full
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Page 11
Valrico Edition
HCSO Honors Deputy And Welcomes New K9 Morrell To The Team
By Kathi Hayes
What August 14, 2017. He makes K9 joined the team in late Morrell so speAugust and will concial to the tinue training to Hillsborough achieve his Florida County Sheriff’s Department of Law Office (HCSO)? Enforcement (FDLE) It’s in the name! Certification at the Although K9 end of October. Morrell is just a Debbie Morrell, puppy, he has a Deputy Morrell's big role to fill on widow and a third team HCSO. grade teacher at Not only is he FishHawk Creek the youngest Elementary School, patrol dog on the fell in love with K9 DUI team eventually integrating Morrell the first time she met him. with the SWAT Team, but also As she gave Master Deputy Pulido this energetic puppy carries on a hug and thanked him for honoring a legacy as the namesake for her late husband, she said, “He was the beloved Deputy a hero to many people Larry Morrell. Deputy and he will always be Morrell, a Valrico resimy hero.” The young dent, lost his battle to puppy and Debbie pancreatic cancer in Morrell bonded instantly. June 2017. As she played with him, Master Deputy she laughed looking Brian Pulido and upward and said, “I think Deputy Morrell spent K-9 Morrell listens better eight years together on than Larry.” the DUI squad. Master “K9 Morrell is very Deputy Pulido proudly special to all of us at the said, “Sheriff Hillsborough County Chronister let me not Sheriff's Office. The late Debbie Morrell only choose a name Deputy Larry Morrell's meets K9 Morrell legacy lives on through for this K9, but also gave me the honor of this puppy that will quickselecting him. That is just ly grow into a consummate the close family environprotector of this great comment Sheriff Chronister cremunity. I'd like to think that ates in this department.” K9 Larry is smiling down on K9 Morrell and Master Deputy Morrell and will be watching Pulido are together 24/7 as he helps keep everyone training, getting to know safe," said Hillsborough each other and building County Sheriff Chad trust. “When comparing Chronister. similarities, Deputy Morrell For information about and K-9 Morrell both have a HCSO K9 Unit, visit big heart and commitment www.hcso.tampa.fl.us/A-Zto the service,” added Pulido. Directory/K/K9-Unit.aspx or follow K9 K9 Morrell is a Belgian Malinois born Morrell on twitter #K9Morrell.
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Page 12
Valrico Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
Poochie’s Offers Top Notch Pet Boarding And Day Care
By Kate Quesada
Valrico resident dogs can be accommoMelissa Bostick dated. All pets must bring knows how hard it proof of shot records can be for pet ownbefore entering the faciliers to find a place ty. to leave their furry “When our company family members. was founded last year, we She developed would have never imagPoochie’s Pet Hotel, ined the support and which is celebrating amount of people and its first year in busidogs we would meet that ness next month, would soon become loyal customers,” said with a goal of pamValrico resident Melissa Bostick, who spent pering pets and Bostick is celebration eight years working in leaving their owners the first anniversary of her business Poochie’s the medical field confident in their Pet Hotel next month. before opening the business. absence. The business, which offers boarding “We want to express our sincere apprefor dogs and cats and doggy daycare, is ciation to our loyal customers for their located on Bostick’s property in Valrico support. We could not have come this so she is available to monitor the anifar without you.” Bostick encourages mals day and night. interested pet owners to call and sched“All dogs and cats that enter our ule a meet and greet. The office is open facility are treated as if they are our Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and own,” said Bostick, who named the Saturday 9 a.m.-1 p.m., but pets are business after her first dog, a rescue monitored 24 hours a day. named Poochie who she found aban“We would love to add more fuzzy doned in Brandon many years ago. friends to Poochie’s Pet Hotel to join the The facility offers boarding seven fun and look forward to meeting you days a week, including holidays, with a and your pets,” said Bostick. variety of care options available, includBostick has experience rescuing ing luxury suites with cameras, televiboth domesticated and farm animals. sions and even room service. Pets are She has rescued several farm animals able to socialize in air-conditioned and from horrible conditions. For info, visit heated indoor areas, with rubber floorwww.poochiespethotel.com or find us on Facebook @poochiespethotelfl. ing for pad and joint comfort, and an Poochie’s Pet Hotel is located at artificially turfed outdoor section with 2405 Crosby Rd. in Valrico and Bostick custom playground equipment specifiis currently offering $10 off for first time cally made with pets in mind. Pets are customers. supervised at all times and all types of
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October 2018
Page 13
Valrico Edition
Strawberry Crest High Student Recognized With Top Honors
By Leda Newberry
Strawberry across the United Crest High School States and abroad (SCHS) junior, Ben attended this exciting Sherwin, received conference to national recognition enhance their busiat the Future ness skills, expand Business Leaders their networks, and of America (FBLA) participate in more National Leadership than 70 business and Conference which business-related was held June 28– competitive events. July 1 in Baltimore, “It was an aweMaryland. Sherwin, some experience,” a FishHawk Ranch said Sherwin, who is resident, competed planning on studying in the Advertising medicine in college. category and “The opportunity to brought home Ninth compete and netplace. work Crest student Students qualify Strawberry with Ben Sherwin received for the FBLA nation- national recognition at the the Future Business Leaders al finals by placing other of America (FBLA) in the top two at a finalists National Leadership district competition from Conference which was held last summer in and the top four at such Baltimore, Maryland. the state level. diverse Sherwin earned first place at both the backgrounds was district and state levels in his category. very special. I met some really great Advertising is an individual objective people.” test which provides recognition for Sherwin believes that being a FBLA members who possess knowlmember of FBLA helps develop netedge of the basic principles of working and research skills that will be Advertising. beneficial in college. He is looking forMore than 9,200 of America’s best ward to attending the competition next and brightest high school students year. traveled to Maryland to Elevate Their SCHS is located at 4691 Futures as they competed for the Gallagher Rd. and can be reached at opportunity to win more than $175,000 707-7522. For more information on in cash awards. Participants from FBLA, visit www.fbla-pbl.org.
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Page 14
Valrico Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
October 2018
Page 15
Valrico Edition
Nativity’s Novemberfest Returns With Midway Merriment And Crowd Favorites
Memory Care Available!
By Amanda Boston
The 49th annual Novemberfest will be held from Wednesday, November 14 through Sunday, November 18 on the grounds of Nativity Catholic Church. The event features Midway rides, games, food tents and live entertainment. “Novemberfest is an awesome example of how a local community comes together to put on a family-fun event for people of all ages,” said Alexis Redig, the Faith and Media Coordinator for Nativity Catholic Church. Redig continued, "From the support of local businesses through sponsorships to the countless hours our parish and school volunteers put in, all the way to the folks who travel near and far to enjoy the carnival—all of these pieces help to make Novemberfest such a successful event.” The festivities will take place on Wednesday and Thursday from 4-10 p.m.; Friday from 4 p.m.-12 Midnight; Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12 Midnight; and Sunday from 12 Noon to 8 p.m. Like in years past, the admission, parking and live entertainment are all free. Food and Midway ride armbands will be available for purchase on the premises. Unlimited ride armbands are available
for $23 at the fest, but discounted armbands can be pre-purchased for $17 from Nativity School students. In the evenings, music from ‘Center Stage’ will aid in the merrymaking as bands and local musical acts with free concerts. On Wednesday evening, Abby and Davis will host a youth ministry night filled with music and trivia. The next night, the band Classix will join the entertainment line-up. Also returning this year is the country rock band ‘Soul Circus Cowboy,’ whose lead singer, Billy McKnight, is an alumnus of Nativity Catholic School. The band will take the stage on Friday night. Saturday night will welcome back country music singer Daniel Sprouse, a Plant City native. “I look forward to going to Novemberfest every year and seeing my former classmates and teachers,” said Dana Burkholder, a Nativity alumnus. “I also enjoy seeing how much Novemberfest has grown since I graduated.” Nativity Catholic Church and School are located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. Visit www.nativitycatholicchurch.org/novemberfest.
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Page 16
Valrico Edition
Girl Scouts Help Re-Plant Lost Trees At Medard Park After Hurricane Irma
Staff Report
During a hot being an old phosearly September phate mine and losday, Emma W., ing so many trees to Lauren A., Sonia D. the Hurricane. This and Sophia D., type of project is Cadettes from Girl only possible with Scout Troop 30020 lots of hard work in Valrico, completand dedication, not ed their Silver to mention the Award Project at excellent teamwork Edward Medard that was all brought Conservation Park, to us by the Girl located at 6140 Scouts and their Turkey Creek Rd. in Cadettes from Girl Scout Troop 30020 in volunteers.” Valrico recently completed their Silver Plant City. The girls, under Award replacing damaged plantings at The Girl Scout the guidance of their Medard Park in Plant City Silver Award is the second highest Troop Leader Amy Casanova-Ward and award of the Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. Assistant Leader Nicole Del Principe and it is the highest award that a Girl Adams, and fellow conservation-minded Scout Cadette can earn. The award volunteers, worked hard to transplant itself is a leadership award dedicated to the trees. improving the community. The project’s main goal was to help The Silver Award Project, named recover the ecosystem by creating a ‘Operation—Save Our Trees!! Tree Renew area for the trees in the park to Planting Mission To Recover Nature grow, since trees are important to the Due to Hurricane Irma,’ consisted of dig- ecosystem. The trees will provide ging up fruit tree samplings from an shade, oxygen, shelter for wildlife and overgrown area of the park and rehelp prevent soil erosion, while at the planting them in an area that suffered same time creating a lasting legacy that tree loss due to Hurricane Irma. will benefit future generations. The Silver Award project advisor for Cadette Emma W. said, “I love this conservation effort was Senior nature. I love to go camping. Because Ranger James from Edward Medard of this I know how important it is to take Conservation Park. “An undertaking of care of nature and to leave no trace this nature is not easy and there is no behind. Nature takes care of us so we guarantee of success, but it appears as must take care of nature.” if the majority of the trees are healthy The Troop is part of the Go-Fer and on their way to re-establishing the Council, of the Girl Scouts of West native forest eco-system,” he noted. Central Florida. Visit www.gswcf.org for “This is especially needed at our park, more information.
Volume 15, Issue 10
October 2018
al l , b e s a B e Costum & r e n n i D est, F h t l a e H re … o M & n Auctio Michelle Colesanti,
changes in farming, food processing, and the advent of the supermarket. The story will unfold as you enter the exhibition at the Photo Archives and History y b d m Compile preyobserver.co Center. Exhibits s @o michelle include Publix Super Markets, Hillsborough Future Farmers of America (FFA), Hillsborough Farm Bureau, Florida Bloomingdale Bulls Varsity Baseball Strawberry Growers Association, 9th Annual Costume Fundraiser Florida Strawberry Festival, Wish Baseball Game Farms, Plant City State Farmers Please come join the Bloomingdale Market, J. William Horsey Corporation, Bulls Varsity Baseball Team Saturday, Southland Frozen Foods Corp., and October 27 at 10 a.m. for a day of family the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame. baseball fun as the 2018 Bulls Baseball Additional sponsors include the Arts team concludes its fall season with the Council of Plant City and the Plant City 9th Annual Costume Game, one of the Rotary. biggest fundraisers for the team. Tickets Call 754-1578 for information or are $10 which includes entry, lunch and email info@plantcityphotoarchives.org. chance drawing. This year the team will be dressed in costumes and compete in Virtual Dementia Tour At Twin Creeks a unique 9 inning Open yourself to experiencinner-squad game. ing the world around you in a It will host different completely different way and activities each gain a clear perspective into the inning such as a daily lives of those with demenDizzy-bat contest, tia. throwing contest The Virtual Dementia Tour and ball in a buck® sensitivity training program, et. Kids can join the presented by Senior Helpers team on the field and Second Wind Dreams, for The National enables participants to gain a Anthem and run greater understanding of the bases. The dementia and shift their team will offer temthinking from fear to action. porary tattoos, picThis unique experience ture opportunities will take place at Twin with the team and Creeks on Thursday, October 18 from 11 a chance for everyone to have a great a.m.-1 p.m. Lunch will be served. time while watching the on-field antics of Twin Creeks is located at 13470 this unique game experience. Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Please RSVP The team hopes the community will to Senior Helpers at join as it begins to prepare for the 2019 Shriverview@seniorhelpers.com or 677regular season and the road back to the 1400. State Finals! For Tickets or more information contact Shelly Wilson at cmshellyKennedy Space Center Visitor wilson@gmail.com or call 335-8469 to Complex Offers Floridians Savings order tickets.
Plant City’s Agriculture, Food Processing, And Supermarket Revolution Through Exhibits
The Plant City Photo Archives & History Center is displaying an exhibition, ‘Plant City and the Agriculture, Food Processing, and Supermarket Revolution 1939 – 1975,’ through Sunday, November 4 at the Plant City Photo Archives & History Center, located at 106 S. Evers St. in Plant City. The exhibition tells the story of Plant City’s role in the dramatic
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Valrico Edition
a coupon from www.KennedySpaceCenter.com, can be used to purchase admission for a party of four people for just $159, a savings of more than $65, through November 18. To qualify for the discount, guests must present the printed coupon and proof of Florida residency at the visitor complex Ticket Plaza. Smartphones, PDFs and/or other soft copies of the coupon will not be accepted. Guests also must provide one of the following: Florida driver’s license, Florida state-issued ID card with a Florida address or a utility bill with a Florida address and corresponding ID. Only the ticket purchaser is required to be a Florida resident. For more information on the Florida Four-Pack offer, call 866-638-5091.
next Coin & Currency Show on Saturday, October 27 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Brandon Elks Lodge #2383, located at 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. in Brandon. There will be 30 dealers/45 tables – Free American Silver Eagle. Admission and parking are free. Free coin grab bags for all children under 12. Food will be available on site. Contact Jack Iaci at 352-777-6073 or brandoncoi club@yahoo.com.
Golf Tournament Benefits Newsome Orchestra’s Trip To NYC’s Carnegie Hall
Please join in for the Newsome Orchestra Golf Fundraiser on Sunday, November 4 at 12:30 p.m. Newsome has been invited to perform at the world
Strawberry Ridge Health Fest October 23
A Health Fest at the Strawberry Ridge Clubhouse will take place Tuesday, October 23 from 9:30 a.m.2 p.m. Free health checks include glucose, BP, bone density, cholesterol, Alzheimer’s, hearing and much more. Enjoy a $5 healthy lunch, fee coffee and iced tea. Enjoy games for GFWC Valrico Service League partners with prizes and door prizes. Healthy home Campo YMCA funding swim lessons. Its upcominformation and services will be availing dinner and auction will help support this able too. Call 390-3315. effort. renowned Carnegie Hall in New York City on April 1, 2019. With your support, 100 Valrico Service League’s Annual talented young musicians will have the Harvest Dinner & Auction opportunity of a lifetime and you will enjoy For the last several years GFWC a great day of golf River Hills Country Valrico Service League, Inc. (VSL) has Club, 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in partnered with the Campo YMCA by Valrico. The event will include a 4-person funding swimming lessons for children scramble, a $10,000 hole-in-one prize, whose families cannot afford lessons. food, prizes and awards reception followHands on activities of the group ing the golf tournament. include educational activities at area Title Included with your online registration I elementary schools and providing clothis a one-year subscription to Golf Digest ing and shoes for needy children, Bunco (a $10 value). and bingo at area retirement homes and Register at participating in Cards for the Troops. www.planmygolfevent.com/32174The group's main fundraiser for the Drive_for_Carnegie/. year is the Harvest Dinner & Auction to be held Sunday, November 4 at Center Loss Of A Spouse Seminar Place, 650 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. Tickets are $30 and may be purchased at Grieving the death of a spouse? Find Center Place through Friday, October 26. help through Grief Share’s Loss of a With Florida Four-Pack The event, sponsored by Terry Fink State Spouse Seminar. This seminar was creatKennedy Farm Insurance, starts at ed to help reach out to hurting individuals, Space Center 5:30 p.m., with catered din- to hear practical advice from others who Visitor Complex ner at 6 p.m. and live auchave been there, what to expect in your is once again tion at 7 p.m. Call Claudia grief, find help and hope and more. The offering Florida Yake at 685-7998 or Sue seminar is Monday, October 22 from 6:30 residents a uniHadden at 685-6160. p.m.- 8:30 p.m. at FishHawk Fellowship verse of savChurch located at 15326 FishHawk Blvd. ings with Coin Club Hosts Coin & in Lithia. the Florida Currency Show Please RSVP by October 18 (howFour-Pack speever, no person will be turned away) to The Brandon Coin cial. The offer, Debbie Morrell at ldmorrell@verizon.net Club Inc., a 501(C) 7 nonFloridians can save on visits to the which can be or call 655-7431. The seminar is free and profit organization, is Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex downloaded as childcare available upon request. pleased to announce its through November 18.
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Page 18
Valrico Edition
e m i r c r e b Cy ity r a h C , n tio P re s e n t a u rn a me n t & Go l f T o o re … M ichelle Colesanti, d by M m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e michell
Visit Bell Creek Academy’s Haunted House
Your room is waiting at the Insane Asylum. Bell Creek Academy, located at 13221 Boyette Rd. in Riverview, will present a Haunted House on Saturday, October 27 from 6-9 p.m. The cost is $7 at the door.
Tall Tales of Old Florida At Cracker Country
On Saturday, October 20 from 6-10 p.m., come visit Cracker Country for an evening of tall tales in historic rural Florida. At each stop a story teller will share a Florida tall tale. Come early and enjoy the harvest games and decor while you wait for your tour to begin, and finish your tour with a special fall treat and a visit to the General Store. The tour is about 60 minutes and $10 a person. It is not recommended for children under 6. Enter the Fairgrounds via MLK Parking Entrance and park near Gate 2.
Parking costs $8 per car and $15 bus or RV. Parking is cash only.
Protect Yourself From Cybercrime Presented At The Bridges
Cybercrime is the fastest growing area of crime. Learn how to avoid being a victim when you attend ‘Cybercrime – The Crime of the 21st Century’ held on Thursday, November 8 from 11:30 a.m. -1 p.m. Debbie Brown, Consumer Protection Investigator from the Hillsborough County Consumer and Veterans Services, will bring the latest information on consumer fraud trends perpetrated over the Internet. Education and information is considered the first line of defense in the battle to protect consumers from victimization. In addition to a powerpacked program, she will provide numerous take-home materials to help you avoid losing your hard earned money to these schemes. The workshop, held at The Bridges, 11350 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview, is free to attend and includes lunch. Space is limited. Call Janet at 413-8900 to reserve your seat.
Strawberry Festival 2019 Theme Announced
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recently announced its theme for the 84th annual event – ‘It’s A Hit!’ “It’s short and sweet!” said President Paul Davis. “From the Headline Entertainment hits on the Wish Farm Sound Stage to the sweetest hit, our world-famous strawberry shortcake, we’re sure to knock this one out of the park.” A new theme is created for each year’s festival to offer guests a glimpse of the experience they can expect at the 11day event. It also unifies vendors, FFA chapters, organizations, corporate partners and exhibitors who create parade floats and displays throughout the celebration, said Davis. The festival’s strawberry character featured in this year’s theme artwork is an intricate part of the event’s branding and advertising efforts. In this theme’s artwork, the iconic Mr. Berry wears a ball cap and sunglasses and carries a bat and a bowl of strawberry shortcake. “It’s a team effort,” said Davis. “Our team of volunteers, vendors, exhibitors and sponsors create an all-star lineup that is sure to please! We pitch only the best to our guests in hopes that they have a ball with their loved ones at the 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival.”
Upcoming Events At The Brandon Senior Center
On Wednesday, October 17 at 12:15 p.m. the Importance of vaccines for older adults & blood pressure screenings; hosted by the National Association of Hispanic Nurses and will be bilingual. Call 635-8066 to register. On Thursday, October 18 at 10:30 a.m. there will be a Breast Cancer Awareness
Volume 15, Issue 10
Fitness Walk. Wear pink for awareness. On Friday, October 26 at 1 p.m. enjoy Brandon’s Autumn Sip & Paint Party. Bring your own canvas and paint while enjoying light refreshments. The Brandon Senior Center is located at 612 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Call 635-8066 for more information.
Charity Golf Tournament For The Brandon Blazers 9U
The Brandon Blazers 9U travel baseball team is hosting a charity golf tournament Saturday November 10 at The CLAW at USF, 13801 N 46th St. in Tampa. It is seeking foursomes to sign up to play as well as any businesses or individuals interested in being a sponsor. Brandon Blazers Baseball Club is a non-profit, tax exempt 501(c)3 Organization. Register and pay at www.paypal.com/cgibin/webscr?cmd=_s-click&hosted_button_id=4CVMTXNVLCLG6 or make checks payable to: Brandon Blazers Baseball 9U and mail to: Attention of Waylon Renfroe, 310 Brandywine Drive, Valrico, FL 33594. For more information, please contact Bill Renfroe at 716-8376.
Summerfield Women’s Golf Association Begins New Season
The Summerfield Women’s Golf Association will begin their annual league play on Tuesday, October 2. New members are welcome to join. Membership is open year round to all women 18 years or older of amateur standing. The league consists of players at all skill levels. Club membership is not required. Games are played on Tuesdady’s at 7:30 a.m. at the Summerfield Crossings Golf Club on Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview. Contact Karen Jones at 634-4556.
October 2018
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Valrico Edition
Majik Touch Cleaners Celebrates 33rd Anniversary Of Top Quality Service
By Michelle Caceres
Waterset resident Day Pickup Promise every Steven Passik is so satisfied weekday and at all locations with Majik Touch Cleaners, except the Plant City and he is literally willing to go out Apollo Beach locations on of his way to put it on his Saturday. If items are route. dropped off before 9 a.m. “I’m very particular orders will be ready for pickabout my dry cleaning and up by 5 p.m. that same day. when the new cleaners got it “Our drivers make their wrong, I knew I needed to first pickup at 9 a.m. and go back to driving my old take everything to our main route so I could switch back processing facility in Valrico to Majik Touch,” said where the ‘majik’ happens,” Majik Touch Cleaners Plassik, who travels frequips Turner, who said the employee Shobhna Kardani quently for work and likes works behind the scenes at facility employees go to his shirts folded and bagged the company’s processing great lengths to ensure facility to quickly clean and so he can pull his shirts out press customers’ garments. every garment is cleaned of his suitcase ready to correctly and efficiently. wear without needing to iron them. “Our employees come in at 5 a.m. “I’ve lived in many large cities, includ- and by 11 a.m. things get really busy ing New York, Nashville and Philadelphia around here,” she said. and every other cleaners I used got it Every item is sorted, stains are right half the time,” said Passik, “but Majik inspected and pre-treated; clothing is Touch gets it right every time.” washed or dry-cleaned, ironed, sorted Started in 1985 in North Tampa by again and loaded into the vans that will Prativ and Jocelyn Patel, Majik Touch take the orders back to their original dropCleaners is celebrating 33 years in busioff point. ness this month. With 13 locations Riverview resident and customer throughout Hillsborough County, Majik Richard Pryce said the ‘majik’ happens at Touch Cleaners has built its business on the drop-off points. “The staff really know offering textile-friendly methods and protheir customers,” he said. “By the time I cedures to ensure customers’ clothes pull up to the drive-thru bay they already look their best and last longer. have my order pulled and ready to hand Its services include corporate shirt to me.” laundry, wedding gown preservation, Locations are open Monday to Friday leather/suede cleaning, expert in-house 7 a.m.–7 p.m. with varying hours on alterations, complimentary button replace- Saturday depending on location. ment and laundering of comforters. For more information about Majik Customer service manager Sheri Touch Cleaners, visit www.majiktouchTurner said its stores also offer a Same cleaners.com.
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Page 20
Volume 15, Issue 10
Valrico Edition
Experience Partnership Redefined With Florida Risk Partners
Southwest Florida Rheumatology Specializing in treatment of:
By Amy Schechter
Rheumatoid Arthritis • Psoriatic Arthritis Osteoporosis • Gout • Osteoasthritis • Lupus
In the insurance agency. I think the insurworld, it is too easy to ance industry as a whole think you can pick up the has become a commodiphone and automatically tized shuffling of papers. save between 15 and 20 For our commercial clients, percent. But, what hapwe look at total cost of risk pens when that premium and focus on all the things cannot get any lower and that don’t necessarily focus your business is no longer on insurance premiums— growing and no longer operational inefficiencies managing risk to its potenthat impact the overall cost tial? That is when David R. of your risk, for example.” Carothers, CIC, CRM and Their goal is to become a Florida Risk Partners can David R. Carothers, CIC, CRM part of your company’s culprovide you with the team, technology, ture, not just insurance salesmen, so you and training to drive positive changes in can move in the right direction. your organization. Regardless of your company’s size, Carothers, owner and founder, grew Florida Risk Partners offers full access to up in the Brandon area attending Burns an array of tools and technology to help Middle and Bloomingdale High School, you solve your problems and grow. but it is not only his familiarity with our Beginning as a virtual agency, Florida area that makes him poised to help local Risk Partners has grown into a leader in businesses. Before his 15 years of expelocal business insurance solutions. From rience in the insurance industry, he man$600,000 in revenue in its first year, it is aged business units for two fortune 500 on track to manage $2 million in revenue companies where he had total P & L and and open another branch in Wesley human resource responsibility. This gives Chapel this October. Jobs are being crehim the unique perspective of a business ated in the community with nine employowner to help you explore how the opera- ees hired locally for the Bloomingdale tion of your business is impacting your location and another five needed at the risk management. “In addition, every Wesley Chapel branch. It offers business team member that joins Florida Risk insurance, bonds, workers compensation, Partners has the opportunity to earn equi- business property, commercial auto, and ty in the organization. If you want your much more. team to think and act like business ownFlorida Risk Partners services the ers, you have to give them an opportunity entire state of Florida as well as many to be a business owner”, Carothers other states. Call (888)-601-6660 or email states. We offer “Partnership Redefined.” info@floridariskpartners.com. It is located He explains, “We are different in that we at 1434 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. are not just an insurance placement Visit www.floridariskpartners.com.
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October 2018
Valrico Edition
Clients Find Satisfaction At McGinnis Law Firm By Michelle Caceres
When a marriage relamany benefits to mediationship turns sour and tion, where a neutral third leaves a couple seeking party tries to bring about an end to the union, each an agreement on contestneed a qualified and capaed issues. ble law firm that can make “Mediation is certainly the entire experience less not for everyone but with it painful. In the Tampa Bay you retain a level of control area, that law firm is that you don’t have at trial, McGinnis Law Firm, repreit is cost-effective and senting clients with chalwhen parties can amicably Wendy McGinnis, Esq. has lenging divorce, child cuscommunicate to find mutubeen a family law attorney in tody and alimony issues for the Tampa Bay area for more ally agreeable terms than 17 years. more than 17 years. everyone wins especially Located at 410 S. Ware Blvd., Suite when children are involved,” she said. 402, McGinnis Law Firm is owned by Mediators can help parties figure out Wendy McGinnis Esq., a Supreme-court options that they have not considered certified mediator, who has dedicated her and help them aid their outlook on the career to helping her clients receive the case. “Divorce is a compromise for both best possible outcome for their cases. parties because nobody gets everything Her approach is simple: don’t sugarthey want,” she said. coat the law. “I get a lot of compliments McGinnis offers free initial consultaabout how direct I am,” she said. tions that usually last about 30 minutes. If “Sometimes my clients have grandiose retained, she said she is upfront about ideas about how their case will go so I her fee. “If a divorce is uncontested explain the process and help them really sometimes I offer a flat-fee, but I am understand all the viable options based always very upfront about my initial on the law.” retainer and any possible future fees,” For Plant City resident Kelcie she said. Williams, McGinnis has been something McGinnis, the only attorney in her of a psychic. “She thought about issues firm, likes to keep overhead low. She that could arise in the future and tried to works without a paralegal, preferring include those in the original order,” she instead to charge a lower hourly rate to said. “She also told me upfront what the clients when she is doing the job of a law states so there were no surprises paralegal. going into the courtroom,” she said. “If you’re going through a divorce or A trial is not necessary in every child custody case I highly recommend instance, said McGinnis. Although she is using this firm,” said Williams. an experienced litigator and very comfortVisit www.BrandonDivorce.com or able in front of a judge, she said there are call 235-4650.
Expires 12/31/18
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Valrico Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
October 2018
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Valrico Edition
Tampa YMCA Invites Community To 4th Annual Goody Goody Turkey Gobble
CFC037149
By Kathy L. Collins
On Thanksgiving morning, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA invites members of the community to participate in the 4th Annual Goody Goody Turkey Gobble 5k, 8k and One Mile Run/Walk. The event is sponsored by Goody Goody Restaurant. The family friendly event starts at 7 a.m. in front of Amalie Arena located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. Goody Goody, as title sponsor, will be providing all who participate with breakfast after the race. Lalita Llerena, Communications Director for the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA said, "All proceeds raised from the Goody Goody Turkey Gobble 5k, 8k and One Mile Run/Walk will support Livestrong at the YMCA for cancer survivors and their families. That means participating will positively impact your health, family bonding time and cancer survivors in the greater Brandon area. What better way to start the holiday?" Registration is available by visiting www.runsignup.com. Cost to participate in the 5k is $30, $35 for the 8k and $15 for the one mile Run/Walk until October 31. Prices increase by $5 thereafter except for the Run/Walk. Participants
receive chip-timed number buds for the 5k and 8k, a dri-fit t-shirt and finisher medals. Please note that Register the whole family for there will the 4th Annual Goody Goody be no onTurkey Gobble 5k, 8k and One Mile Run/Walk. Enjoy site regisThanksgiving morning know- tration or ing that you are supporting bib pick your neighbors who have up. been affected by cancer. Llerena said, "This is to ensure that the race starts on time." All pre-race packet pickups will be held at the Central YMCA located at 110 E. Palm Ave. in Tampa on Monday, November 18 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Tuesday, November 19 from 1 to 7 p.m.; and Wednesday, November 20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for first place overall male/female adult and for youth 9 and under. First place prizes will be given in age groups as well. Onsite race results will be available. The Livestrong program is a free 12-week Y program that offers people affected by cancer a safe, supportive environment to participate in physical and social activities focused on strengthening the whole person. For more information or to register, please visit the website, www.tampaymca.org.
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Page 24
Valrico Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
Valrico
October 2018
Volume 15, Issue 10
Ph: 657-2418
See Political Guide Pgs 31-38
Patient-Centered Approach Offered By Motion ChiroTherapy
Motion ChiroTherapy offers Chiropratic utilizes a patient-centered approach which incorporates extensive training in chiropractic, rehabilitation, and sports performance to quickly reduce pain. Patients are given the best care through exams and treatments. Dr. Robert Lutz noted that Motion Chiro Therapy takes pride in getting to the root cause of your condition and getting you healthy quickly, while ensuring you can sustain these results after your treatment plan is complete. Hours are Monday to Thursday 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Friday 7 a.m.-3 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. It is located at 16765 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. Call 793-7791or visit motionchirotherapy.com.
20/20 SoftWash & Window Cleaning New Logo And Name
20/20 SoftWash & Window Cleaning recently announced the launch of its new company logo as part of its ongoing expansion of the brand. The company will use the one single name for all its services and the new logo. The business has grown in many ways over the last 14 years and the new logo reflects those changes. Call 863-644-4000 or visit www.20-20windowcleaning.com.
Dr. Robert Lutz of Motion ChiroTherapy.
FirstLight Is Trusted HomeCare
Lane in Riverview. Office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. but care is offered 24/7. Call 677-2047 or visit www.sohillsborough.firstlighthomecare.com.
Physician Assistant Victoria Capezza who recently joined Southwest Florida Rheumatology.
There are many life events that can be overwhelming for families and where they may need some extra support to manage. FirstLight Home Care is a trusted in-home care and caregiver resource used by many families in Brandon, Lithia, Riverview, and surrounding Southern Hillsborough and Manatee County communities each day. FirstLight Home Care considers itself an extended family member, someone you can call on to help you face even the most difficult challenges, ready to provide guidance, companionship, peace of mind and compassionate care when it is most needed. Companion Care, Personal Care and transportation is provided. It is located at 10035 Water Works
Victoria Capezza From UF Has Joined Southwest Florida Rheumatology Victoria Capezza joined Southwest Florida Rheumatology in November 2017. She graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and later graduated with Honors from Nova Southeastern University’s Physician Assistant program with a Master’s degree in Medical Sciences. She is licensed as a Certified Physician Assistant by the state of Florida. She is an active member of Florida Academy of Physician Assistants, American Academy of Physician Assistants, and Florida Society of Rheumatology. Victoria worked for one year in the
field of Neurology in Tallahassee and then moved back to central Florida. Victoria grew up in Plant City, and she likes to spend time with her parents whenever she gets the chance. In her spare time, she enjoys hanging out with friends, reading, writing, and exercising. Capezza has quickly fallen in love with rheumatology and is excited to be practicing medicine here and giving back to the community. Southwest Florida Rheumatology is located at 11954 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Call 672-2243. Visit swflrheum.com.
Anytime Fitness Will Help You Kick Start Healthier Habits
Kick start your Health and Fitness at Anytime Fitness Lithia, a full-service gym that provides a variety of options for all levels of fitness. It is offering a 6 Week Challenge which is open to anyone including members. What you get with the Awesome 6 Week Challenge: Custom Meal Plan, Personal Grocery List, Easy Food Prep Instructions, 42 Done-For-You Recipes for the six weeks, Personal Accountability Coach, CuttingEdge Workouts and a great Support Group with Coaches and much more.
Continued on Next Page
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Volume 15, Issue 10
Valrico Edition
3314 Henderson Blvd., Ste. 201 in Tampa. Hours are Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 463-9245. Visit www.ImageLift.com or Facebook.com/ImageLift.
Business Column Continued.............
By Michelle Colesanti
You should be motivated to do this program. If the challenge is not for you, Anytime Fitness is still able to provide help with membership at its full service gym. It is veteran owned and operated and located at 6144 Churchview Dr., Ste. 201 in Lithia. Call 438-8474 or email lithiafl@anytimefitness.com.
Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. Call 6571500 or visit www.mycfda.com.
Celebrate Grand Opening Of Kid’s Therapy Unlimited. Inc.
Seminar Teaches How Image Lift Can Help You Refresh And Look Younger
Come and celebrate the Grand Opening of Kid’s Therapy Unlimited, Inc. on Saturday, October 27 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be face painting, light snacks, balloons, clowns, snow cones and more. Kid’s Therapy Unlimited, Inc. offers speech/language and occupational therapy. It is located at 3119 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Call 662-1106 for more information or visit www.kidstherapyinc.com.
Would you like to look younger, yet avoid surgery? Do you have a special event, wedding, reunion, anniverDance Classes Offered In Brandon sary, or are you just looking to invest Directors Jayme Perkins and Kati in yourself? Trammel of Central Florida Dance Dr. Rich Castellano, an artist and Alliance are happy to an award-winning double embark on the studio’s board-certified facial plasninth season of dance tic and reconstructive sureducation. Offering geon, is the #1 Bellafill classes for ages 2 facial filler injector in the through adult in a variUnited States, and he has ety of styles to suit performed over 3,500 everyone's wants and facelifts under local anesneeds. The smaller thesia. Before you have a class sizes and family facelift or filler injection, focused environment make sure you meet Dr. make this studio stand Rich. out from the rest so You are invited to a your little star will shine Facial Beauty Social Mixer bright for years to Dr. Rich Castellano, Board- Seminar on Wednesday, certified facial plastic and come. Classes are November 7 at 1 p.m. at reconstructive surgeon. offered for both the River Hills Country Club, recreational and the 3943 New River Hills competitive dancer including an Pkwy. in Valrico. Lunch award-winning competition team VIPS will be served. Call 888and nationally recognized choreogra875-3223 now as seating phers. Classes are offered in Hip Hop, is limited. A Grand Prize Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, drawing (up to $1200 Lyrical, Acro, Preschool, Baby Ballet value) will be held at the and more. event. CFDA is located at 929 E. ImageLift is located at
Enjoy Black Light Painting Through October
Throughout the month of October, Pinot’s Palette, the local paint and sip hot spot, is turning everyone onto the black-light painting trend. This is a cool and unique take on art that is fun for families, friends, and even dates. You are invited to come to the dark side to see how it works. When the lights go off, it is time to set your fears aside and go
with the flow. By combining blacklights and special paint, the atmosphere inside the Pinot’s Palette studio electrifies as the canvases come to life in a whole new way. Brush strokes strobe and colors pop off the canvas. Painters are even encouraged to wear white and/or neon colors to become part of the psychedelic surroundings. The paintings still look amazing under regular light. Come into a Pinot’s Palette studio and attend a black light painting class during the month of October. Or, it can come to you. A Pinot’s Palette representative can bring examples of the best black light paintings, and also provide pictures of what the same paintings would look like under black lights and regular lights. Pinot’s Palette – Brandon is located at 2086 Badlands Dr. For more information, call 618-3064 or visit www.pinotspalette.com/brandon.
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October 2018
Valrico Edition
Page 27
Page 28
Valrico Edition
Volume 15, Issue 10
Ms. Brocato
Teacher Of The Month
c a to Ms. Bro de 4 th G r a Valrico y ta r Elemen ol o h Sc
a teacher? Why did you decide to become red anything other than being side con er nev e Truthfully, I hav nce in the lives of children. I a teacher and making a differe out the teacher's erasers, used to stay after school to clap pieces of chalk, which I old up sharpen pencils, and clean wing my age)! As a younguld take home to use. (I'm sho wo y B d h the neighborhood kids, line Sponsore ster, I used to "play school" wit e d a e my younger brother and Brenda W up my stuffed animals, or tortur y lt a they were my students. Re his friends by playing school Signature her? What are your goals as a teac a positive relationship with My goal as a teacher is to build the sense of the rapport with the children and each child in my class. I enjoy ir learning the et me y on their faces when the accomplishment and pride I see order for in ds nee t's den ng to meet each stu dents goals. I love the challenge of tryi stu my for ds dar stan h ning. I set hig ey them to be successful in their lear m. Th know I up to the challenge to meet the and I love watching them step m along the way. am always there to support the nts? What is one of your hidden tale ons I high I can play the drums. I took less t tha One of my hidden talents is school. rised to find out about you? What would your students be surp coming to find out that I was the Home My students might be surprised high school. Queen during my senior year in school cafeteria? the What is your favorite dish from pack it ch, whether I buy it a school or lun for day ry eve ost alm d sala a eat I ese. a has delicious macaroni and che from home. The school cafeteri e.... shar to ling wil are ts you Any embarrassing teacher momen Florida ching, and I had just moved to tea of r yea t firs my ber graders, I can remem ond sec my h g down the sidewalk wit from Pennsylvania. I was walkin g for a gymnaarmed with a school map, lookin the sideof end the sium building. I got to PE r doo out a was it walk and realized up s ium nas gym had ays court! We alw . ses clas PE north for live Is there a quote or saying that you by? thing, In a world where you can be any be kind. Is there anything that you would change in our schools? see is One thing I would really like to s clas r alle for us to maintain sm indisizes. In order to best meet the Ms. Bro is this ts, den stu our of c vidual needs teacher ato has been a for 27 y imperative. ears .
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October 2018
Page 29
Valrico Edition
Libraries Host Short Story Contest
NOMINATIONS NEEDED!
By Kate Quesada
Seventh and eighth prize in partnership with grade students throughout the Friends group at the the Brandon area have an Jan Kamini Platt Regional opportunity to exercise Library,” said Tonti. “Each their imaginations and year, they come to the potentially profit from it. library to personally award Entries are now being the prize-winner with a accepted to Tampaprize check and their conHillsborough County Public gratulations.” Library’s fourth annual Seventh and eighth Stair Prize in Writing and grade students at all coun2017 Winner this year, the contest asks ty schools, including pubstudents to write a creative lic, private, home school Rebekah Haddad story based on the prompt and parochial, are invited “When we left for the new to participate and last year planet.” a total of 147 entries were According to Lorie received. Tonti, Manager of Learning The short story must Experiences with Tampabe 500 to 1,000 words and Hillsborough County Public must be typed and include Library, the purpose of the page numbers. contest is to promote an Submissions are accepted interest in creative fiction in person at all Tampawriting among students. Hillsborough County Public 2016 Winner “The TampaShannon Adams Libraries or can be mailed Hillsborough County Public to the Jan Kaminis Platt Seventh and eighth grade Library system strives to Regional Library at Attn: students in Hillsborough foster cultural enrichment Stair Prize in Writing County and invited to compete for a $500 prize for Contest, 3910 S. and celebrate local talent creative writing. of all sorts,” said Tonti. “We Manhattan Ave. Tampa, hope these contests will encourage FL 33611. The deadline for entries is Hillsborough County children and teens Friday, October 19 at Midnight. to express and share their creativity.” The winner is chosen by the Stair The contest began four years ago Prize Committee and each committee when residents Ralph and Lila Stair member reads all of the entries. approached library representatives to pro“We have been fortunate to have had pose a creative writing prize for students. excellent entries making the selection of The family fully funds the contest, includone winner a painstaking process,” said ing the $500 prize for the winner. Tonti. “The Stairs live in Colorado and For more information, call 273-3652 Tampa and wanted to sponsor the writing or visit www.hcplc.org/teens/stair-prize.
Your favorite teacher could have their very own spotlight editorial in the Osprey Observer Community Newspaper! Complete the form below and email your nomination to: teacher@ospreyobserver.com
Teacher Name: School: Why should this teacher be Teacher of the Month?
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Page 30
Valrico Edition
YMCA Hosts Successful Sold Out Mother-Son Nerf Ninja Night
By Kate Quesada
The Campo Family YMCA hosted Mother and Son Nerf and Ninjas night to a sold out crowd last month.
On a Saturday night last month, the Campo Family YMCA in Valrico was overrun by nerf gun wielding ninjas. And their moms. The YMCA hosted its first Mother and Son Nerf and Ninjas night on Saturday, September 8 to a sold out crowd of 112 mother-son groups with children ranging from 5-12 years old. “We are always looking for new and innovative ways to bring families together and we couldn’t be happier with the turnout and success of this event,” said Campo Center Executive Director Jarrod Williams. Participants navigated a Ninja Course, battled in several rounds of Nerf Wars, made Ninja-themed crafts and refueled with snacks and refreshments. Children were divided by age and rotated between three stations and moms were encouraged to participate, especially in the nerf battles. “I recommend this event to anyone who wants to have fun,” said 10year-old FishHawk resident Will Olver, who attended the event with his mom and brother. “It was all fun,
but the best part was definitely shooting my mom.” T-shirts were available for purchase and the YMCA provided all nerf bullets for the event. “Our plan is to make this an annual event that mothers and sons alike can look forward to,” said Williams. “We are going to debrief, collect feedback and discuss ways to make Nerf and Ninja Night bigger and better. If anyone has any ideas, we would love to hear them.” Six-year-old Gunner Olver offered his feedback, which was only positive. “I loved the ninja course,” he said. “I wish I could do it
all the time.” The Campo YMCA, which is located at 3414 Culbreath Rd., in Valrico, frequently hosts events for member and non-member families including a member-exclusive Pumpkin Splash event on Friday, October 12 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. For more information on future events, visit www.tampaymca.org or call 6841371. The YMCA also has an active Facebook page with frequent event updates.
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Volume 15, Issue 10
Seville Cleaners Offers Superb Value And Outstanding Service
By Caitlin Masessa
Dealing with work for myself and your dry cleaning is not someone else,” never a fun chore, he happily admits. especially when the While Seville cleaning service Cleaners uses the fails to put the cussame equipment as tomer first. It is often the leading estabthat most dry cleanlishments, ers put their focus Cummerow sees a on themselves and large difference place the customer between his dryon the back burner. cleaning service If you are tired of and others. “It’s our paying more for less value,” Cummerow service, it is time to explains, “We clean switch to Seville at a better price Cleaners located and deliver the in Brandon and same quality.” Valrico. The low price that Mark Cummerow is the owner of Seville Opening its is offered is and he is proud of the $2.75 per item $2.75, a value first location in the Cleaners concept of his dry cleaning business. Brandon/Valrico that stays consisarea in 2007, the mission of Seville tent no matter the style of the garment Cleaners has always been to provide you may bring in. the quality and service their customers The staff at Seville is aware that deserve at an affordable price. your time cannot afford to be wasted When you walk into Seville and they are prepared to have your Cleaners, it is highly likely that you will order done the same day as long as it is see owner Mark Cummerow behind the dropped off by 9 a.m. “It’s our value and counter. Cummerow has been a concustomer service.” Cummerow iterates, stant presence ever since he took the “That’s why I think people should come mantle of owner and operator in early to us.” 2009. Not only can he be seen greeting If you want to experience this his customers and taking their orders in exceptional customer service first hand, with a smile, he also enjoys doing the visit Seville Cleaners at 3237 Lithia dry cleaning himself. When it came to Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. To learn more running his own business, it is the idea about Seville Cleaners, and its owner of being his own boss that pushed him Mark Cummerow, visit www.sevillecleanto take on the challenge. “It’s a thrill to ers.com.
Clip & Save: Twelve Ballot Amendments And What They Mean To Voters Registered voters who are voting by mail or at the polls for the upcoming General Election need to know that there are 12 Constitutional Amendment Proposals on this year's ballot. This is the longest list in decades. One amendment (8) was struck down by the Florida Supreme Court. Voters should carefully read each amendment. Some of the amendments (1-5) were proposed by the Legislature or by citizen initiative. The remaining (7, 913) come from the Florida Constitution Revision Commission (CRC). which meets every 20 years and is allowed to bundle more than one issue into each proposed amendment. To be approved, a constitutional amendment must receive 60 percent of the vote. Summary of the amendments.
Amendment 1- Increased Homestead Property Tax Exemption
This would raise the portion of a home's value that can be exempted from non-school property taxes. The change would apply to the assessed value of a homestead property between $100,000 and $125,000. This would increase the maximum exemption to $75,000.
Amendment 2- Limitations On Property Tax Assessments
Essentially, this would make permanent a temporary cap of 10 percent on annual property value increases. This applies to non-homestead properties.
Amendment 3- Voter Control Of Gambling In Florida
This amendment would give voters the exclusive right to decide whether to authorize expansions of casino gambling. Currently, the authority rests with both the Legislature and voters.
Amendment 4- Voting Restoration For Individuals With Felony Convictions
California’s Marsy’s Law. It would raise the age for retirement of judges to 75, and it would bar judges from relying on administrative agencies’ interpretations of a law when ruling in cases.
Amendment 7- First Responder And Military Member Survivor Benefits; Public Colleges And Universities
This proposal would restore the right to vote to nearly 1.4 million Floridians who have served their sentences. This amendment does not apply to felony convictions for murder or sexual offenses. Florida is one of four states that continues to limit the rights of citizens to vote. The law dates back to the Civil War.
This is two items. The first would provide college tuition for the survivors of first responders and military members killed on duty. The second would require university trustees to agree by a two-thirds supermajority to raise college fees (not including tuition) and establish the state college system in the Constitution. Universities are in it, but state colleges (i.e., community colleges) are not.
Amendment 5- Increase To Two-Thirds Vote Needed In Legislature To Increase Taxes
Amendment 9- Prohibits Offshore Oil And Gas Drilling; Prohibits Vaping In Enclosed Indoor Workplaces
Currently, a simple majority is needed. This increase could affect the state in times of emergencies such as a hurricane or recession and could hamper the Legislature's ability to pass a reasonable budget which is their yearly mandate.
Amendment 6- Rights Of Crime Victims, Judges
This amendment is three items. It would add a list of rights for crime vicims which is modeled after
This calls for a ban on oil and gas drilling in state-owned waters and a proposal to add vaping to the ban on smoking indoors.
Amendment 10- State And Local Government Structure And Operation
This is four items. One is to have the legislative session start in January rather than March in even-numbered years (the legislature currently
By Kathy Collins
changes its dates by statute), two is to create a counter-terrorism office (FDLE is already the lead agency), three is to make the state veterans affairs department constitutionally required (there is a provision in the Constitution), and four requires that tax collector, property appraiser, supervisor of elections, sheriff and clerk of circuit court be elected. In Hillsborough, these are already elected.
Amendment 11- Property Rights; Removal Of Obsolete Provisions; Criminal Statutes
Repeals the state’s ability to prohibit noncitizens from buying, owning and selling property; deletes a provision that forces the state to prosecute criminal suspects under the law they were originally charged under, even if the Legislature changes that law; deletes obsolete language having to do with high-speed rail in Florida (voters repealed this section in 2004).
Amendment 12- Lobbying And Abuse Of Office By Public Officers
This expands the time from two years to six years that elected officials and government employees have to wait before they could lobby state government.
Amendment 13- Ban On Dog Racing
This proposal ends wagering on dog racing by 2020. Visit http://dos.myflorida.com/elections/.
Jack Gutman Has The Experience And Integrity To Be A County Court Judge, Group 8
Sheriff Chad Chronister Seeks Election As Hillsborough County Sheriff This November
Supreme Court as Jack Gutman a State Mediator. has practiced law for "In my work as a over 30 years and is mediator, I have running for County learned to facilitate Court Judge in resolution of Group 8. issues as opposed He won the to engaging in a August 28 primary way that causes decisively receiving excessive litigaover 46,000 more tion. votes than his runoff In addition to opponent, receiving Jack Gutman, shown here with his practicing law, 46.83% of the vote daughter, Samantha, son, Matthew and Gutman has to his opponent’s wife, Carlene is seeking to continue his 22.41%. long legal career and serve the communi- served on the "The three pillars ty as a County Court Judge. The election Board of Directors is on Tuesday, November 6. for the MacDonald of my campaign are Training Center, a non-profit that honesty and integrity; experience; and serves people with disabilities. community involvement," said Gutman has been endorsed by the Gutman. He has extensive experience West Central Police Benevolent in both civil and criminal law and has Association, the Tampa Police achieved an AV Preeminent Rating Department Benevolent Association, from the Martindale-Hubbell Peer the City of Tampa Fire Fighters Union, Review Ratings. five retired Circuit Court Judges, nine "Being a judge is the highest past presidents of the Hillsborough Bar honor a lawyer can achieve. To be entrusted with that authority is an awe- and two past Florida Bar presidents. Gutman has been married to some responsibility," said Gutman. "I Carlene for 25 years and has two chilwant to be a County Court Judge dren, Samantha and Matthew. because it is the people's court. This "I believe that I have the experimay be the first time a citizen encounence, temperament and high level of ters a judge. The judge needs to have ethics necessary to be a County Court the right temperament coupled with Judge. I would ask that you vote for extensive expertise in order to be me for County Court Judge on effective on the bench," said Gutman. Tuesday, November 6," said Gutman. Gutman has served as both a For more information, please visit prosecutor and defense attorney. In www.Gutmanforjudge.com. addition, he is certified by the Florida
Hillsborough changed hiring stanCounty Sheriff, Chad dards. He has worked Chronister, is running to be more inclusive for election this in hiring and is comNovember in the mitted to diversity in General Election. the department. Chronister was “My main goal is appointed by Governor to have resources Rick Scott in (personnel, tools and September 2017 when technology) to mainSheriff David Gee tain standards given retired. the growth in this Chronister runs a county. This is key to department of 3,500 reducing crime and Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad employees. The Chronister with wife Nicole, is run- keeping families Hillsborough County safe,” said Chronister. ning for election in the General Election. He is a veteran law Sheriff’s Office proWhile Chronister enforcement officer appointed by tects over one million is tough on crime, he Governor Rick Scott in September residents. worked to develhas 2017 to take over the duties of Sheriff when David Gee retired. “I want to continue op an Adult Diversion as Hillsborough County Sheriff Program for first time offenders of misbecause we are expected to experidemeanor crimes such as drug offensence exponential growth in this county. es or shoplifting. Estimates are that the county’s popuIn addition to his official duties, lation will double in size by 2035. With Chronister voluntarily serves on two this type of growth, we need someone boards- The Boys and Girls Club and who has the qualifications and experiMetropolitan Ministries. Chronister ence that I have to continue to make said, “If we build strong children, then public safety a top priority,” said we will have a strong community,” said Chronister. Chronister. Chronister has worked to improve Chronister holds a Master’s the tools, resources and technologies Degree in Criminology from St. Leo that deputies have available to them to University. He is married to Nicole and keep residents of the county safe. In he has two sons. Chronister has been addition, Chronister has worked to with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s improve the hiring practices within the Office for 26 years and was one of department. Specifically, Chronister four Colonels prior to becoming has expanded recruitment and Sheriff. Visit www.chadchronister.com.
By Kathy L. Collins
By Kathy L. Collins
Democrat Angela Birdsong Seeks Seat On Hillsborough Board Of County Commission
Jamey Moody Seeks The Opportunity To Serve As Circuit Court Judge, Group 25
Angela Birdsong, a County Commission. "Some daughter of immigrant parents, of the current County wants to be the voice of the Commissioners are skirting people on the Hillsborough the meaning of the law when it comes to term limits. County Board of County They just switch districts to Commission. Birdsong is a gain additional terms on the democrat running for a seat on commission. This is where the County Commission in corruption begins," said District 2. She would like your Birdsong. vote in the General Election Another issue of conon Tuesday, November 6. Angela Birdsong wants cern to Birdsong is the proBirdsong has pledged to not take money from develop- to be the voice of every- posed Tampa Rays baseball day people. She is a ers. "I am a child of immigrants. Democrat running for stadium. "We should not There are a lot of coalitions that County Commission in have the taxpayers footing Dist. 2. the bill for this outrageously deserve a voice. I want everyone, not just millionaires, to have a voice," expensive stadium when we have an affordable housing and transportation criexplained Birdsong. "My opponent's coffers are full of donations from developers. sis in Hillsborough County," explained Birdsong. I will not take their donations because I District 2 runs from the Carrollwood want to be the voice for the people and area to Highway 60. The district includes not a representative of developers," areas such as Seffner, Mango, added Birdsong. Thonotosassa, Brandon and Valrico. Urban sprawl is a problem in Birdsong works in the health insurHillsborough County. "Every area in ance industry and helps residents get Hillsborough County has seen tremendous growth without commensurate infra- successfully signed up for Medicare. "Health care is a right not a privilege," structure. We have had urban sprawl said Birdsong. instead of smart urban planning," said If you want someone on the Birdsong. "Pinellas and Pasco Counties receive Hillsborough County Board of County Commission who will represent the interimpact fees, but we do not get them ests of everyone in Hillsborough County, because some of the current County then vote for Angela Birdsong, District 2, Commissioners get money from the on Tuesday, November 6. developers," added Birdsong. Visit www.angelabirdsong.com or Birdsong is concerned about other facebook.com/angelabirdsongforcc. issues. One is the makeup of the current
Long time Plant siding over cases involving pro City resident, Jamey se litigants," added Moody. Moody is running for Moody is an ardent Hillsborough County believer in community service. Circuit Court Judge in He is the Secretary and board Group 25 on Tuesday, member of Plant City Main November 6. Moody Street, a board member of the has the requisite comPlant City Chamber of bination of experiCommerce, a committee ence, a spirit of volunmember of the Planning Board teerism and profesof Plant City, committee memsionalism to make him ber of South Florida Baptist a fair, honest and Hospital Foundation respected Circuit Investment and a Rotary Club Court Judge. member. Moody has pracCircuit Court Judges hanticed law for 15 years. dle thousands of cases each "My experience of liti- Jamey Moody, a third genera- year. As such, judges need to tion resident of Plant City, gating hundreds of be fair and impartial. "Despite shown here with his wife, Courtney and their two boys cases has prepared litigating in an adversarial sysDuncan and Jimmer (James tem, I always strive to be fair, me for the bench in Moody IV), is running for Circuit an enormous way," honest and professional in Court Judge in Group 25. said Moody. "My pracadvocating for my client as tice as a civil litigator has enabled me to well as in my working relationships with handle cases from intake through multiopposing attorneys," said Moody. If you day jury trials. I believe jury trial experidoubt this, just look Moody's campaign ence is essential when seeking judicial and endorsements. "The people I have office," said Moody. worked against have signed up to be a In addition to his practice, Moody part of my campaign," said Moody. has worked as a volunteer attorney (pro "I believe I have shown the capability bono) with Bay Area Legal Services. "My of handling a variety of matters both judipro bono legal work has helped me to ciously and efficiently. I will make deciunderstand and appreciate the vast dissions quickly but with careful forethought, connect between the need for legal repre- and look forward to serving he residents sentation and the financial ability to obtain of Hillsborough County with integrity, fairit," said Moody. "As a judge, I believe my ness and discipline," said Moody. pro bono experience will help enable me For information about Moody’s camto be an asset to the community in prepaign, visit www.votejametmoody.com.
By Kathy L. Collins
By Kathy L. Collins
For the General Election (Tuesday, November 6), early Voting will take place from October 22 through November 4 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit www.votehillsborough.org/About-Voting/Three-Ways-toVote/Early-Voting for information regarding early voting and the locations to vote. Locally you can vote at Bloomingdale Regional Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, Valrico Recreational Center, 707 S. Miller Dr. in Valrico, Riverview Brandon Library, 10509 Riverview Dr. in Riverview, SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Dr. in Ruskin, Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St. in Plant City. You can request a Vote By Mail Ballot from the Hillsborough Supervisor of Elections Office by Wednesday, October 31 by visiting www.votehillsborough.org. No matter which method you choose to vote- By Mail, Early Voting or on Election Day, your vote counts.
United States Senator
Bill Nelson is a fifth-generation Floridian and an independent voice that always puts Florida first. His experience includes more than 40 years of public service, first in the Florida State Legislature, then Congress, then on Florida's Cabinet and, since 2001, the United States Senate. Since being elected to the U.S. Senate in 2000, he has earned a reputation as a consensus builder and problem solver, while consistently being a moderate voice in an increasingly Bill Nelson (D) partisan environment. For more information, visit www.nelsonforsenate.com.
Rick Scott (R)
Rick Scott is Florida’s 45th governor, serving two terms in office. He is now seeking the open seat for Florida in the U.S. Senate. Governor Scott grew up in the Midwest with his father, a World War II Veteran and truck driver, and his mother, a store clerk. After Scott married his high school sweetheart, Ann, he joined the Navy. He used the G.I. Bill to attend college and eventually opened his first business- a donut shop so his mom could have a job. As a Senator, Scott wants to implement a limits, end wasteful spending, & more, visit https://rickscottforflorida.com.
Representative In Congress District 15
Kristen Carlson (D)
Kristen Carlson graduated from Stetson Law School in 1977 and has been fighting for the people of Florida since. She started out as a prosecutor and then went to work for the Department of Citrus fighting to ensure Florida's vital crop was protected. Her mother was a front-line Army surgical nurse during WWII and father was a career fighter pilot in the Air Force. She became a prosecutor after law school and then went on to work for the Florida Department of Citrus as General Counsel. For more, visit www.kristencarlsonforcongress.com.
Ross Spano (R)
Ross Spano currently represents District 59 in the Florida House of Representatives and is a managing partner of Spano & Woody, P.A. in Riverview. He is also the Chairman of the Florida Human Trafficking Working Group and serves on the Federal Judicial Nominating Commission. As the Congressman for Florida’s 15th District, Ross will always fight to uphold the rule of law and protect the . He will prioritize protecting vulnerable populations, including victims of human trafficking. And as a proven conservative leader, Ross will strive to protect the conservative values that are so important to him, visit www.rossspano.com.
Representative In Congress District 16
Vern Buchanan (R)
Vern Buchanon, incumbent to U.S. House District 16 and serving his sixth term, is co-chair of the bipartisan 29-member Florida congressional delegation and currently serves on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over tax policy, international trade, health care, welfare, Social Security and Medicare. Buchanan is chairman of the Tax Policy Subcommittee, a key panel that oversees the nation’s tax code. He served six years in the Air National Guard and worked his way through college. Visit https://vernbuchanan.com.
David Shapiro (D)
David Shapiro has spent nearly 30 years serving citizens as a lawyer in Sarasota and Manatee counties. He was raised in the Tampa Bay area and is an alumnus of the University of Florida and has a law degree from Florida State University. He is a trustee member of the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, served on the board of directors for the Sarasota Film Festival and served on the advisory board of West Coast Black Theater Troupe. For more information, visit https://voteshapiro2018.com.
State Representative District 57
Mike Beltran (R)
Mike Beltran is a Harvard-educated lawyer currently residing in Tampa with his wife and two sons. He has a decade of experience serving the people of Central Florida and was also appointed by Rick Scott to the Judicial Nominating Committee. He describes himself as a pro-business, pro-life, pro-constitution, conservative lawyer. Issues Beltran is focusing on would be cutting government waste, lowering taxes, cutting the red tape for small business growth, putting more money into classrooms, enforcing immigration laws, protecting sanctity of life and protecting 2nd amendment rights. For more information, visit http://electmikebeltran.com.
Debbie Katt (D)
Debbie Katt is an analytical software engineer by trade bringing a unique perspective to the legislature in Tallahassee. She has crafted solutions for over 20 years that integrate different components and deliver creative problemsolving results for all types of industries, from retail and manufacturing, to leisure and state governments. Upon completion of her undergraduate degree from Texas A&M, she enjoyed working in the airline industry for five years, then attended North Carolina State University, where she received a Master’s in Applied Math and a minor in Statistics. She moved back to Florida in 2006 and resides in Valrico with her husband and daughter. For more information, visit www.debbiekatt.com.
State Representative District 59 Adam Hattersley was born in Massachusetts and raised mostly in Colorado, Hattersley graduated with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Michigan in 2000 and 2001, respectively. While there, he was a member of the 1999 NCAA Champion men’s gymnastics team. He then served as a Nuclear Submarine officer in the US Navy for eight years, including time in the Pacific Fleet and on the ground with an Army unit in Adam Hattersley Operation Iraqi Freedom (2006-2007) for which he was (D) awarded a Bronze Star. He moved to Riverview in 2009 where he worked for Granite Services, International (a subsidiary of GE). For more information, visit www.adamhattersley.com.
Joe Wicker (R)
Joe Wicker is a proud veteran as he was called to active duty in 2001 with two deployments to Iraq. In 2003, he served as Tank Platoon Leader and in 2007 served as an advisor to the Iraqi Security Forces. Wicker completed his service and returned home in 2008. Upon returning home, he was recruited as a business manager for an International Paper Company where he currently manages over $20 million in supply chain. Wicker has also served as committee chairman in MiraBay community of Harbor Bay Development in Apollo Beach and is active in the Wounded Warrior Project and Operation Helping Hand. He is married to his wife, Amy, and they are both active members at The Crossing Church. Visit http://joewicker.com.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Sheriff Chronister is a veteran law enforcement officer who has served with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office since 1992. He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in criminology from St. Leo University. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy’s 260th Session. Sheriff Chronister became the top law enforcement officer in Hillsborough County on September 30, 2017, upon his appointment by Governor Rick Scott. He was most recently the Colonel Chad Chronister in charge of the Department of Operational Support. For more information, visit http://chadchronister.com. (R)
Gary Pruitt is currently the Director of Security at the Westfield Citrus Park mall working for Professional Security Consultants. He spent 25 years as a law enforcement officer with the Tampa Police Department, retiring in September 2015. During his time with this agency, he spent all his time in the patrol districts where he served as a patrol officer and patrol supervisor as well as a plainclothes officer and supervisor. He was also a detective assigned to latent investigations. For more info, visit https://www.votegarypruitt.com.
Gary Pruitt (D)
Circuit Judge, 13th Judicial Circuit Group 25
Robin Fuson
Robin Fuson is a Florida Native who has been married for 33 years with two daughters and one grandchild. Robin pitched for ten years in the Minors and coached the Oakland A’s for three years before switching the baseball field for the legal field. He has now been in the legal field for 25 years. Fuson earned his Bachelor’s in Criminology from the University of South Florida and then his law degree from Stetson University College of Law in 1993. For more information, visit www.electfuson.com.
Jamey Moody has a long family history in the legal community. Three generations of the Moody family have taken the judicial oath of office here in Hillsborough County. Moody received his Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Florida and his Juris Doctor from the UF’s Levin College of Law and has spent his entire career litigating cases in Circuit Court. He has also spent countless hours volunteering as a probono attorney through Bay Area Legal Services. For more information, visit http://votejameymoody.com.
Jamey Moody
County Court Judge Group 2
Lisa Allen
Lisa Allen is currently working at the Law Firm of Ansa Assurance, LLP. She is a civil litigator representing clients in a wide variety of matters for the past 17 years. From 2006-2009, Lisa served as a Federal Law Clerk for Honorable James S. Moody, Jr., U.S. District Court Judge for the middle district of Florida. Allen was born and raised in Jacksonville and currently resides in Tampa with her husband and three children. She graduated from the University of Florida with a B.S. in Business Administration. For more, visit https://www.allinforlisaallen.com.
Greg Green is a Tampa native and graduate of Chamberlain High School. He was born and raised in Hillsborough County, which he considers his “forever home.” Green has served as a prosecutor and assistant Attorney General for the county. He also serves the community and the youth as the men and women’s football coach at Robinson High School. As a two-time legacy of the Tampa Police Department, he stands with the law enforcement. For more information, visit http://votegreggreen.com.
Greg Green
County Court Judge Group 8
Jack Gutman
Jack Gutman has 31 years of legal experience and is looking to further that as a County Court Judge. He has been a resident of Hillsborough County for the past 45 years. He grew up in South Tampa and is a graduate of Plant High School. He received his Bachelors’ degree from Tulane University and his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law. The first 14 years of his legal experience was spent as a state prosecutor and defense attorney, practicing criminal law. He also served as a Felony Division Chief with Hillsborough County Attorney’s Office. Visit www.gutmanforjudge.com.
E. Michael Isaak moved to Tampa at four years old and has called Hillsborough County home for 48 years. He is a graduate of Tampa Prep and earned his Bachelors’ in Economics from Rollins College and his law degree from Samford University in Alabama. Isaak has been practicing law for the past 25 years. He began his legal career as an Assistant State Attorney with the 18th Judicial Court and spent more than 5 years prosecuting criminals. Isaak is married to his wife, Betsy, and they have two children. Visit isaakforjudge.com.
E. Michael Isaak
Board Of County Commissioners District 4
Andrew Davis (D)
As a child, Andrew Davis’ hobbies were karate, baseball, football, and fishing/crabbing. He enrolled in trade school to join the work force as an auto mechanic, but while in school, he learned his true calling was sales. As a salesman, Davis has won several awards and been promoted to supervisor roles, but the part he loves most is that he gets to solve genuine problems for people and businesses. Andrew is a member of the East Hillsborough County Democratic Club, Plant City Area Democrats & more. For more information, visit https://votefordavis.com.
Stacy White (R)
Stacy White is a fifth-generation native of East Hillsborough County. He grew up in our community and graduated from East Bay High School. He has always had a heart to help others and found his calling in pharmacy, attending the University of Florida to obtain his Doctor of Pharmacy degree. White has served as the County Commissioner for District 4 since 2014. Prior to that, he served as the District 4 member of the Hillsborough County School Board. For more, visit www.facebook.com/VoteStacyWhite.
Board Of County Commissioners District 5 Victor Crist is the current District 2 commissioner, seeking to serve the citizens of District 5. Prior to being on the County Commission, Crist represented parts of Hillsborough and Pasco Counties in the Florida House of Representatives. Visit Victor Crist (R) www.commissionervictorcrist.co m.
Joe Kotvas (NPA)
Thirty five years ago, Joe Kotvas was a County Commissioner representing the people of Hillsborough County. Now, he’s back to finish the job he started. Kotvas cares about this county and the people in it. For more information, visit https://joekotvascares.com.
Mariella Smith (D)
Mariella Smith is a long-time advocate for smart growth management, transportation and environmental protection. She is a fourth-generation Florida native and resident of South Hillsborough County. She earned her B.A. in Philosophy from the University of Tampa and her M.A. in Philosophy, majoring in Ethics from Florida State University. mariellasmith.com.
Board Of County Commissioners District 7 Todd Marks is a George Mason School of Law graduate, where he also graded on to the George Mason Law Review and served as its symposium editor. In 2006, He formed Westchase Law P.A., a civil law firm and real estate closing Kim ‘Klarc’ Todd Marks (R) company in Hillsborough Visit O’Connor (GRE) www.toddmarks.com.
Kim ‘Klarc’ O’Connor earned a B.A. in Philosophy from University of South Florida. Later she attended the University of Florida; College of Law. While at the UF Law school she was elected the first woman President of the Student John Marshall Bar Assoc.
Kimberly D. Overman (D)
Kimberly Overman is a 34-year resident and an active volunteer of the Tampa Bay Area. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park with a B.S. in Agricultural and Resource Economics. Overman is a certified Financial Planner and CEO of The Financial Well, Inc. Visit www.kimberlyoverman.com.
Robin Fuson Has Experience Needed To Serve As County Circuit Court Judge, Group 25
Greg Green County Judge’s Motto “Experience, Integrity And Committed To Service”, Group 2
For the past 25 a substitute teacher and years, Robin Fuson as a server in a restauhas spent nearly rant," explained Fuson. every day in court. "I This hard work love everything that included 10 years as a goes on in court," said professional baseball Fuson who is a candiplayer and three years date for Hillsborough as a coach. "My baseCounty Circuit Court ball career taught me a Judge in Group 25. lot about dealing with Fuson added, "I knew different personalities early on in my career and about teamwork," that i wanted to serve said Fuson. as judge." Fuson is a Robin Fuson, shown here with his In Fuson's long Hillsborough County wife, Sally, his mother, Amelia, daughters, Tori and Lyndsey and legal career, he has native. He received his granddaughter, Amelia, is a candi- B.A, degree from USF represented both date for Hillsborough Circuit Court sides of the law havJudge in Group 25. He would like and his law degree you to cast your vote for him on ing worked as a prosfrom Stetson University Tuesday, November 6. ecutor for eight years. College of Law. He has For the last 18 years, he has managed been married to Sally for 33 years and and worked in his own practice, Robin has two grown daughters and one Fuson, PA. granddaughter. He is a member of both The experience of representing all the Greater Riverview Chamber of sides in both criminal and civil litigation Commerce and the Greater Brandon has allowed Fuson to form an underChamber of Commerce. standing of how he wants to see people Fuson has been endorsed by treated and issues resolved in court. "I Florida Attorney General, Pam Bondi, believe judges need to be seasoned the Hillsborough Tax Collector, the professionals. They need experience in Hillsborough County Property Appraiser both the law and in life," said Fuson. " and the Mayor of Temple Terrace. Fuson has worked hard not only in Fuson said, "I have both the life his legal career (having tried over 200 experience and professional experience jury trials and argued thousands of preneeded to be a fair and just trial and evidentiary motions) and in his Hillsborough County Circuit Court life overall. "I have worked hard my judge.” whole life in a variety of jobs including at For more information on Fuson, a drug store, as a gas station attendant, please visit www.ElectFuson.com.
Attorney Greg our county as a proseGreen has dedicated cutor and assistant his life to serving the Attorney General where people of Hillsborough he worked tirelessly to County. ensure justice in our Green was born, courts every day. He is a raised and educated business owner and here in Hillsborough founding partner law of County. He grew up in Green Law, P.A. a community-service Outside of his prooriented family who fession, Green also taught him that servserves the community ing his community is and our youth as a volthe highest honor that unteer football coach at an individual can Robinson High School Greg Green’s motto and background board member of achieve. and of Former Prosecutor, Former Assistant Attorney General, AVVO The Crossing Church Green said, “I am Rated 10, Ten Best Family Lawyers Pastoral Care/Biblical very happy to by AFILA, Member of Hillsborough, announce that I won Florida & Family Law Section of the Counseling. Bar, gives him ample experience as the August Primary, Seven generations County Court Judge, Group 2. receiving 82,672 of his family have called votes and 43.5% of the vote. Let’s keep Hillsborough County, home. In fact, the momentum going and bring home Green fondly refers to Hillsborough as his another victory in November.” ‘forever home’. Green is married and has Green’s love for this community two young daughters, born and raised came early in life. He attended right here in Hillsborough County. Chamberlain High School where he Green chose to run for three reaworked hard as a student-athlete under sons: (1) to ensure all litigants who the Friday night lights of the Chiefs’ footappear in Court enjoy equal access and ball team and as a basketball standout. receive fair treatment under the law, (2) to There, he learned the value of teamwork, continue the family tradition of public preparation and fairness providing him service, and (3) to continue serving as a with important principles that guides him real and tangible role model for his chilin the courtroom today. dren. Green has real experience, proven Green’s service to Hillsborough leadership and the right temperament to County continues through his professionserve as your next County Court Judge, al and personal involvement in the comGroup 2. munity. He is honored to have served in Visit VoteGregGreen.com.
By Kathy L .Collins
First Place in the Primary!
EXPERIENCE THAT COUNTS Robin Fuson has been an a!orney in Tampa for over 24 years. In addi"on to being a former Hillsborough County Assistant State A!orney and a former Adjunct Professor at the University of South Florida, he has been in private prac"ce for 16 years. His memberships include the Florida Bar, Florida Jus"ce Associa"on, Hillsborough County Bar Associa"on, Tampa Hispanic Bar Associa"on, Carrollwood Bar Associa"on, the Carrollwood Area Business Associa"on, Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Tampa Bay Tiger Bay Club and the Hillsborough NAACP. Robin Fuson graduated from the University of South Florida and Stetson University College of Law. Prior to a!ending law school, he was a professional baseball player and played in the 1988 World Series for the Oakland Athle"cs. He has been married for 34 years, has two grown daughters, a granddaughter and a!ends Bell Shoals Bap"st Church. You can reach Robin Fuson by calling him directly at 8139674186 or via email at robinfuson@aol.com. Visit his website at www.ElectFuson.com and then cast your vote for him by mail, during early vo"ng, or on Elec"on Day Tuesday, November 6th.
Staff Report
Stacy White Seeks Re-Election To Hillsborough County Board Of County Commission, District 4
The Time Is Right For Michael Isaak's Run For County Judge, Group 8
Stacy Protection Program. White, a lifelong “I want to continue resident of to work on land use Hillsborough policy, growth manageCounty, is runment, road infrastrucning for re-electure and traffic issues,” tion to the said White. “I was part Hillsborough of a coalition that County Board of passed policy which allowed us to allocate County 800 million dollars Commissioners. toward transportation White is a candifunding over the next date for District 4. This district 10 years. We did this Stacy White, shown here with his family, is covers much of without raising taxes. running for re-election to the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners. He We basically changed Eastern and would like your vote on Southern the fee structure that Tuesday, November 6. Hillsborough developers pay, so County. White would like your vote on that they pay more for roads,” added Tuesday, November 6. White. White, a Republican, has deep family If you do not know what the Hillsborough County Board of County roots in Hillsborough County. He is a fifth Commissioners does, just think of them generation native of Hillsborough County as the Board of Directors for our local who lives and works in Valrico with his government. There are four representawife and three children. He graduated tives who are elected according to a geofrom East Bay High School, earned a graphic area and three who are elected Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the county wide. District 4, which White would University of Florida and has practiced like to continue to represent, is a geopharmacy for 21 years. graphic area. From 2010-2014, White served the “I have a great deal of experience community by serving on the Hillsborough County School Board. Since both in government and professionally, I being a member of the Hillsborough have served on both the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, County School Board and the White has been an advocate for managHillsborough County Board of County ing growth, fixing our infrastructure, workCommissioners. This makes me the right ing on traffic issues as well as working on person to represent District 4 for the next the Environmental Lands Acquisition and four years,” said White.
added Isaak. Michael Isaak is When asked what uniquely qualified to serve as a County sets him apart from his opponents, Isaak clearly Court Judge. Isaak is stated, "Morals and valrunning for election in ues." Isaak further Group 8. He would like explained, "My parents your vote on Tuesday, came to this country November 6. from Israel. They had Isaak has signifinothing. They are the cant experience. He epitome of the American served as an Assistant Dream," said Isaak. His State Attorney for five mother went on to years and has been become the first female running his own sucMichael Isaak's extensive legal attorney at the Tampa cessful law firm for 20 career, work ethic and values he learned from his parents all make office of Holland & years. Isaak has tried him a great candidate for County Knight. 150 jury trials, argued Court Judge. He is running and "The people who thousands of motions Group 8 and would like your vote on Tuesday, November 6. influence the candidate and has written 300 for judge are a great tell appeals. of how the candidate will act and perform "From my first day of law school, I on the bench. I grew up with a great have always wanted to be a judge," said mother as a role model," said Isaak. Isaak. "After 26 years of successful prac"I have a great work ethic. My tice, I am in a position where I feel that I morals, values and lessons learned from can give back to the community and my parents reflect how I practice law and serve as a judge," added Isaak. how I will perform as a County Court "I believe that everyone deserves to Judge," said Isaak. be treated fairly in court. No one should Isaak is a member of several local ever walk away from the courthouse and Chambers of Commerce including feel that the law was not followed," said Brandon, Riverview, Valrico/FishHawk, Isaak. For me, in deciding to run for Plant City and Sun City Center. Isaak is judge, there was a defining moment married to Betsy, and they have two chilwhen the law was not followed and my dren, Sophia and Jackson. Isaak and his client was harmed. That day reaffirmed my belief that there is a need for fairness, family attend Idlewild Baptist Church. For more information and to see and I thought someday the timing will be Isaak's numerous endorsements, please right to make the move from practice to visit www,isaakforjudge.com. the bench. That day has come for me,"
By Kathy L. Collins
By Kathy L .Collins
SUPPORT MICHAEL ISAAK Michael Isaak has a 25year legal career in private and public prac"ce. He is a former Assistant State Attorney and has maintained a successful Tampa law prac"ce for the past 20 years. He is a member of the Florida Bar, Hillsborough County Bar, Florida Jus"ce Associa"on, as well as the Na"onal, Florida and Hillsborough Associa"on of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He is a mul"year recipient of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Awards of Excellence (1993, 1994, 1995), the 18th Circuit State A#orney’s LongTerm Service Award, and was named the FADL Gladiator of the Year (2015). Mr. Isaak is a member of the Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, Valrico Fishhawk and Sun City Center Chambers of Commerce. He lives in Tampa with his wife Betsy, daughter Sophia and son Jackson and they attend Idlewild Baptist Church. You can call Michael Isaak at 8134435100, email him at IsaakForJudge@gmail.com, visit his website www.isaakforjudge.com, and vote for E. Michael Isaak by mail, during early vo"ng or on Elec"on day November 6th.
Green Party Candidate, Kim O’Connor, Seeks Seat On County Commission
Making Sense Out Of The Half-Cent Education Tax Referendum
Kim O’Connor is a O’Connor has served Green Party (GRE) canon the Ochlockonee didate who is running for River Soil and Water a seat on the Conservation District (in Hillsborough County Tallahassee) and most Board of County recently on the Commissioners in District Hillsborough Soil and 7. District 7 is a county Water Conservation wide seat. She would like District. She resigned your vote on Tuesday, from the Hillsborough Soil November 6. and Water Conservation O’Connor is a native District to run for the Floridian. She graduated County Commission seat. from the University of Kim O’Connor is a Florida native O’Connor is running as a who is seeking a seat on the South Florida with a B.A. candidate with Green degree in Philosophy. She Hillsborough County Board of Party County Commissioners. went on to earn her law “It was a difficult O’Connor is a member of the degree from the University Green Party (GRE) and would decision to resign as I like your vote November 6. of Florida. While at the was the only elected University of Florida, O’Connor was member of the Green Party in Florida. elected the first woman President of the However, as a County Commissioner, I Student John Marshall Bar Association. have a broader platform to express and O’Connor became interested in pol- enact policies that feature the Green itics and worked on several campaigns Party values of peace, justice, fairness including the Florida League of Women and ecological wisdom,” explained Voters’ effort to get the Equal Rights O’Connor. Amendment added to the Florida “To serve the citizens of Constitution in 1978. O’Connor has Hillsborough County as woman as they practiced law, worked with government have done would be an honor and a agencies (including a City Attorney’s privilege,” said O’Connor. Office, a County Attorney’s Office and “Your vote for me on Tuesday, the Department of Transportation), November 6 can elect a Green Party taught law in China and was a project environmentalist and activist to the coordinator for the Florida Bar. County Commission and give an opporWhile living in Key West, she tunity for a new, cooperative direction earned the nickname, “KLARC” for her for Hillsborough County,” said dancing ability. O’Connor.
The Hillsborough who cannot have County Public School any connection with (HCPS) District is the district or benefit ‘Investing In Students’ financially from the projects. by proposing a referenAlliance for dum for a half-cent Public Schools, sales surtax increase Melissa Erickson to generate funding to says, “If tourists improve schools. travel the I-4 corriVoters will see this prodor, Hillsborough posed education tax County is the only referendum on ballots you don’t county November 6. HCPS currently only receives an eigth of If approved, the a penny, but state performance remains pay sales tax to highest for overall score for 2017-18. support schools.” estimated $131 million in annual sales tax income over ten years With HCPS currently receiving the lowest sales of one eighth penny sales tax, it still would be in effect January 1, 2019. has the highest overall performance HCPS recently released a school-byscore for the 2017-18 State of Florida school list of 1,785 projects to be funded Accountability Report. by the proposed half-cent sales tax with Superintendent Jeff Eakins is on a an estimated $637 million earmarked for tour of town hall meetings to share inforair conditioning systems. Other projects mation about the state of the Hillsborough include building and renovating schools, school district, opportunities for students maintenance, security and technology. and the $2 billion challenge the communiA typical family in Hillsborough ty faces because of inadequate state County would pay $63 a year. The funding. amount is based on IRS sales tax tables Upcoming community appearances for a typical household with the county's include October 15, 7 p.m. at Middleton median annual income of $51,681. High School, 4801 N. 22nd St. in Tampa The tax would effect only purchases and October 23, 7 p.m. at the Chapel at on items like clothes and consumer FishHawk, 6026 Churchside Dr. in Lithia. goods or big items such as a car or boat For information about the tax referenup to $5,000. It will not be used to elevidum, visit https://sdhc.k12.fl.us/. For a list ate the deficit. The Citizens Oversight Committee of of school improvements, visit https://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/docs/00/00/23/ seven members headed by former state 08/Education_Referendum_School_by_S education commissioner Betty Castor will chool_List_v2.pdf. be formed to include six private citizens
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Hillsborough Voters To Decide Transportation Future In November
By Preston Rudie
All for Transportation, the citizen-led effort to support increased local funding for roads and transportation, has exceeded the 49,000 petition threshold required by law to secure a place on the November ballot, according to the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections. “This is a historic moment. More than 70,000 thousand people in Hillsborough County have put a solution that funds transportation problems in front of their neighbors. We’ve waited far too long to solve a transportation crisis in Hillsborough County that is getting worse every day,” said Tyler Hudson, All for Transportation Chair. All for Transportation is a community led effort organized to fund a wide range of solutions to address our County’s greatest shortcoming – traffic congestion and lack of transit options – and allow us to invest in our community. “Without enough funding for transportation, the traffic where I live in Brandon continues to get worse. Plus, Hillsborough County’s population is expected to grow by more than 700,000 people over the next thirty years. That’s why my neighbors and thousands of people from all over Hillsborough County signed the petition,” said All for Transportation volunteer Rena Upshaw Frazier, “The people have made it clear
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they won’t wait and they will be ready to vote ‘yes’ to fund transportation in November.” If approved by a majority of voters in November, the All for Transportation proposal would fund transportation improvements throughout Hillsborough County including Tampa, Plant City, Temple Terrace, Brandon, Town n’ Country, and Sun City. “Improvements would include improved roads and bridges, expanded public transit options, fixing potholes, enhanced bus service, relieving rush hour bottlenecks, improved intersections, and making walking and biking safer,” added Hudson. “All of these funds will be reviewed by an independent oversight committee and audited annually to make sure the funds are used as outlined in the plan that voters signed and will vote on in November.” “I’m happy to be one of the Hillsborough voters that signed. This gets us one step closer to funding that will make rush hour easier, provide us more transit options and make our streets safe,” said East Tampa resident Gwen Myers. “I believe people will vote yes in November, because the funding has clear oversight to make sure it’s spent on the community’s priorities.” To learn more about All for Transportation, visit AllforTransportation.com.
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Page 40
Volume 15, Issue 3
Valrico Edition
, e l a S a i r Lumina ncert & Fall Co re… Mo santi,
donlions.org/luminary. Orders should be placed by Monday, November 5. No payment is required with your order. All orders Cole e ll are COD and can be e h ic ed by M observer.com il p m picked up or delivered o C ey e@ospr on Saturday, michell December 15. Proceeds benefit Brandon Lions Charities, a not for profit 501(c)3 organization supporting 2018 Brandon Lions Club Annual eyesight and hearing programs, Luminaria Project Southeastern Guide Dogs, Greater Tampa Lions Sight Fund, ECHO, Each year the Brandon Lions Club conducts its Luminaria fundrais- Family Promise, The Outreach Clinic, ing project providing the kits to neigh- Brandon High School Don Bishop Track Meet, Brandon Area Youth borhoods and individuals throughout Soccer, and other local area needs the Greater Brandon area. The Luminaria Kits are construct- since 1954. ed with white paper bags weighted down with sand and illuminated from within by a candle. They are traditionally displayed on Christmas Eve. Each kit contains 15 each of long burning votive candles, candle holders, white bags, and a plastic bag of sand (to use in the base of each bag) and retail for $6.50. Orders over 15 kits will be delivered to your neighborhood. GracePoint Plant City to Host Contact Night*Light for the Community Joe Kuebler at 263-2522 to GracePoint Plant City is hostplace your ing a community-wide free fall order or comconcert celebration, ‘Night*Light’, plete the Order on its campus 1107 Charlie Griffin Information Rd. on Saturday, October 20, 7-10 Form online p.m. with some of the best homeat www.brangrown Tampa Bay area Christian
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talent available. “The people at GracePoint want to open the doors to the community as we look to better meet the needs around us. Music is a great way to connect with people from all backgrounds,” said Robert Watson, outreach elder at GracePoint Plant City. Three local bands will perform, each with its own style: Psalm 101 (southern rock & gospel); Aaron David (Rock/Pop) and Dudes With A Purpose (Christian Covers). Come for one band, or for all. Each band will play for about 45 minutes, with 15minute intermissions in between with refreshments available. This is suitable for the entire family. Seating is limited. Call 759-9383 for more information or visit www.facebook.com/events/18163350 88480159
Upcoming Events At Congregation Beth Shalom
Book Club - On Monday, November 19 at 6 p.m., Congregation Beth Shalom presents ‘Page Turners’. Join in as Three Floors Up by Eshkol Nevo is discussed. This novel tells the stories of three Israeli neighbors who lives take unexpected turns. Light dinner will be served and it is BYOB. Congregation Beth Shalom is located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Call 681-6547.
at Saladino Park, 1705 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Get to know Rabbi Bryan while carving pumpkins and playing games. Carving instruments (childfriendly) will be provided along with snacks, but please B.Y.O.P (bring your own pumpkin.) Kids of all ages welcome and those with a youthful attitude as well.
Fall Festival Featuring Car Show And Business Showcase
Join in on some family fun on Sunday, November 3 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Moose Family Center, located at 804 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico. The Fall Festival will include a car show, food, entertainment by Music Showcase and Dark Horse Music Store, a live DJ provided by Event Heroes of Tampa Bay, bounce houses, raffles and a sports memorabilia auction. All cars are welcome to participate, and registration begins at 9 a.m. Pre-register your vehicle at www.fallfestivalvalrico.com/csr. Trophies awarded at 1:30 p.m. Vendors will also be on site to assist you with your Christmas shopping. If you are interested in spotlighting your business or would like more information about the festival, visit www.fallfestivalvalrico.com, email Admin@Bikes4Christ.com or call 533-9177.
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October 2018
Valrico Edition
Page 41
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Come See The Florida Opry And Its Fantastic Music Variety Show For 21 years, the Florida great. He has a Opry has been entertaining Bluegrass show on Sunday afternoons that audiences in Plant City with its is broadcast from Flagler music variety show. The show College’s radio station.” features well known artists On Saturday. singing Bluegrass, Country, December 1 come out Americana, Folk, Gospel and Contemporary music. Randy and hear the Sandy Back Scott, who serves as Master of Porch Band perform Bluegrass music the way Ceremony, is an act unto himit was meant to be perself. He will perform and enterformed. Their hard drivtain the audiences. Scott is a ing, lighting speed perperennial favorite at the Florida Strawberry Festival. Randy Scott is the Master formance will leave you of Ceremonies for the tapping your foot. The Florida Opry performs Florida Opry. The band for the on the first Saturday in Saturday, January 5, 2019 show has not October, November, December, January, yet been finalized, but you will see the February and April. There are no shows Grayson School of Dance Extreme in March due to the Florida Strawberry Cloggers perform. Festival. All shows begin at 6 p.m. The On Saturday, February 2, 2019 come doors open at 5:30 p.m. on out and see Swinging Bridge, a great The Florida Opry is brought to the Bluegrass band that has been celebrating area thanks to the East Hillsborough Historical Society. The 2018-19 lineup is a music for over 20 years. Bender said, “We have had them at the Florida Opry fantastic one filled with great talent and before and they are top notch.” lots of fun. You will not want to miss this On Saturday, April 6, 2019 the Florida season. Opry hopes to host a Patsy Cline show. On Saturday, November 3, come out Stay tuned for more information. to see Ernie Evans and the Florida State Tickets to the Florida Opry are $15 Bluegrass Band and Jonathan Davis perform. Also performing that night will be the for advanced tickets, $17 at the door and $8 for students. You can get your tickets Clogging Connection. According to and more information on the Florida Opry Shelby Bender, Executive Director and by visiting https://www.ehhsoc.org/thePresident of the East Hillsborough florida-opry.html. Historical Society, “Ernie Evans is really
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History Will Be On Display At The 41st Annual Pioneer Heritage Day Come out to food and craft historic Plant City vendors, pioneer on Saturday, exhibits and the November 10 for display of homethe 41st Annual made and historic Pioneer Heritage quilts. There will Day from 9 a.m. also be live enterto 3 p.m. The day tainment, bouncelong, free festival houses, hay rides is held at the hisand face painting. toric 1914 Plant Live entertainCity High School ment will include You will not want to miss the 41st Annual Pioneer Heritage Day on Saturday, November NRG (Next Community 10 in historic downtown Plant City. Center located at Radical 605 N. Collins St. in historic Plant City. Generation), Strawberry Express This year’s festival will be opened Cloggers and Clogging Connection. by American Heritage Girls Troop 0014 Alumni from Turkey Creek School will with the presentation of the colors. The share their archive collection of the festival features many guests including school’s history. ‘Henry Bradley Plant’ who will arrive in The Plant City Garden Club will host the East Hillsborough Historical its annual juried flower show. This year’s Society’s 1931 Chevrolet car. He will be theme is ‘An Old Fashioned joined by ‘Henry Dobson,’ a First Thanksgiving.’ The Quintilla Geer Bruton Sergeant in the United States Army who Archives Center will host its annual was encamped in Tampa (the area that Bake Sale and used genealogy books is now the University of Tampa) prior to will be for sale. the start of the Spanish American War. Shelby Bender, Executive Director Dobson shared his opinion on Tampa and President of the East Hillsborough and the Army through personal letters. Historical Society said, “The Annual Dobson and Plant come to the festi- Pioneer Heritage Day is a great day to val thanks to the Plant Museum and a come together as a community and congrant from the Florida Humanities nect with yesterday as we move forward Council. to tomorrow.” As this is a festival, there will be Please visit www.ehhsoc.org.
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Valrico Edition
Sports
Volume 15, Issue 10
Connection
657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Local Football And Cross-Country Athletes From Seffner Christian Academy Win Athlete Of The Week Honors Florida Orthopaedic Institute (FOI) was proud to announce its Athlete of the Week award winners in September to two Seffner Christian Academy athletes. The winners of the Team Player Award went to junior football starting quarterback from Seffner Christian Academy Isaiah Knowles. The Leadership Award went to freshman cross-country athlete Emelia Huebner, also from Seffner Christian Academy. Knowles and Huebner were nominated by Head Football Coach Travis Puleo and Assistant Athletic Director Andy Holmes respectively for pushing themselves and their teammates to higher levels of performance. Both were recognized for being exemplary teammates and strong students. For Knowles and Huebner, winning the FOI Athlete of the Week Award is the first of many goals they are looking to achieve this year. “As a quarterback and team captain, my goal is to be better individu-
Staff Report
Seffner Christian Academy’s Junior football starting quarterback Isaiah Knowles.
ally than last year, in both the game and as a leader. Personally, I want to grow stronger as a young man and become a better teammate,” said
Seffner Christian Academy’s Freshman cross-country athlete Emelia Huebner
Knowles. “This year I would like to reach state again and improve my place
over last year. I never give up or miss a practice, even if it’s 100 degrees or pouring rain. Being part of a team with great friends is the most rewarding thing of all,” stated Huebner. The FOI Athlete of the Week – Team Player Award is given each week to a Hillsborough County high school athlete whose coaches feel does his or her best to put direction into action, make a significant contribution to the team, and continuously works to improve his or her skills, attitude and training. Athletes who earn the FOI Athlete of the Week – Leadership Award must exemplify strong relationship building skills, show excellent initiative on and off the court, and serve as a role model for his or her peers. For an archive of previous award winners, please visit www.floridaortho.com/2018/09/14/froelich-andkaszuba-earn-the-first-foi-athlete-ofthe-week-honors.
October 2018
Page 43
Valrico Edition
Dance-A-thon Showcase Will Raise Needed Funds For Grow Into You Foundation
Staff Report
Fred Astaire Dance Grow Into You Studio of Brandon is Foundation is on a misreaching out to teens in sion to coach and mentor foster care on Friday, the underprivileged; October 19. The ballroom specifically teens aging dance studio is once out of the foster care sysagain partnering with local tem. These teens cannot non-profit Grow Into You invest in themselves Foundation for a Dance-afinancially, and often lack thon; specifically a minithe resources and skills to match and spotlight showfind a place to live or case. This fundraising secure a job. They typievent will take place from cally age out of a residen7-9:30 p.m. at the tial facility with no one to Brandon studio, and is turn to, and can find The public is invited to a Dance- themselves homeless, open to the community. a-thon Fundraiser on Friday, Attendees will be daz- October 19 from 7-9:30 p.m. at trafficked, incarcerated, or even back in the system zled by an evening of pro Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Brandon. as a parent. Grow Into ballroom demonstrations, You Foundation provides certified life spotlight dances, general dancing and coaching and mentoring, equipping these very special performances by teens in foster care. These teens have been work- teens with life and job skills, and empowing with Fred Astaire Dance Studio’s certi- erment for tough life choices as well as fied instructors to showcase their unfortheir emotional wellbeing. gettable routines. Tickets for the Dance-aFred Astaire Brandon is thrilled to thon are $20 per person. In addition to a partner with this wonderful foundation to night of dance, there will be a catered support those most vulnerable in our socimenu, multiple prize drawings, and addiety. They have been active, utilizing the tional opportunities to sponsor teens in hashtag #FredAstaireCares to motivate staff and students to reach out to those in foster care. need. They are working with local chariLast year Fred Astaire Dance Studio ties, including causes for pediatric and held a Masquerade Charity Ball last year breast cancer research, our troops overfor the Grow Into You Foundation. seas, and teens in foster care. Studio owner Kelle Chancellor said, For more information about the "Fred Astaire cares about those most vulnerable in our community. We're thrilled to Dance-a-thon, or how to sponsor these give these teens the opportunity to dance, wonderful teens, please contact Fred and raise funds to provide them with the Astaire Dance Studio Brandon at 438services they need to not only succeed, 5963, or visit but thrive in life." www.GrowIntoYou.org/FredAstaire.
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Page 44
Volume 15, Issue 10
Valrico Edition
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