Riverview/Apollo Beach
Enter To Win Page 49
C E L E B R A T I N G
December 2018 Volume 16, Issue 12 Ph: 657-2418 1 6
Y E A R S
O F
P U B L I S H I N G
P O S I T I V E
C O M M U N I T Y
60 N E W S
Local Teen Hosts Concert To Benefit High School Best Buddies Program
Options For Future Southshore Transit Opportunities Discussed At Meeting
Musician Billy Joel School’s Best once said, “Musicians Buddies program. want to be the loud voice “Leaven Brewing has for so many quiet been open for almost hearts.” Seventeen-yeara year and is becomold Riverview High ing a local fixture for School student, Riley neighbors and friends Stanley, is the voice for to meet up with their many quiet hearts of stufamilies and dogs to dents in the Best enjoy some good Buddies program at food and beverages,” Riverview High School. “I Stanley said. “Jillian started playing guitar and K.J., the owners when I was about 8of Leaven have been years-old and began to very supportive of me; sing when I joined the they gave me my first Seventeen-year-old Riverview High chorus department at School student, Riley Stanley will be paid gig when I was Riverview High School,” hosting at concert at Leaven Brewing only 16-years-old. It in Riverview on Saturday, December was a great success Stanley said. “I have 22 from 7 p.m.-10 p.m. He will be always loved music. I donating all his tips from his perform- and a lot of fun. They first heard The Monkees ance to Riverview High School’s Best are excited about this and The Beatles when I Buddies program. Leaven Brewing is performance and that located at 11238 Boyette Rd. in was about seven and it the money raised will Riverview. created a connection to be going to Best music that continues now, and I think Buddies at Riverview High School.” would always be a part of my life. In fact, Stanley hopes to raise as much money many of the songs I play now are songs as possible for the Riverview High from The Beatles that I loved as an eleSchool’s Best Buddies program as they mentary school student. ”Best Buddies is prepare for the annual Friendship Walk in an organization that helps people with downtown Tampa on Saturday, May 4. “I intellectual and developmental disabilities would be happy with any amount of by creating personal relationships money that I can raise, but the more the between them and their fellow students. better, of course,” Stanley said. “I would “Growing up I had the opportunity to also like to raise awareness for the Best spend a lot of time around children with Buddies program. It would be great to get special needs,” Stanley said. “These more people involved.” important interactions have given me a If you would like to check out some desire to help others. I joined Best of Stanley’s live performances, you can Buddies as soon as I got to Riverview visit his YouTube Channel at High School.” Stanley will be hosting a https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAN4 concert at Leaven Brewing in Riverview Llx6l4naqfHWgcUSzoA/videos. To learn on Saturday, December 22 from 7 p.m.more about Best Buddies, visit www.best10 p.m. He will be donating all his tips buddies.org. Leaven Brewing is located at from his performance to Riverview High 11238 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.
Riverview reshigh-speed ferries locatident Jim Johnson ed in Gibsonton and looks forward with Apollo Beach would anticipation to quickly transport workrelief of southeast ers downtown. Hillsborough Gannett Fleming County’s congestconsultant Jeanette ed roadways. He Park said mobility hubs learned of a possicould be constructed ble plan to help where people could alleviate that conpark and share rides, gestion at the where bike rentals Southshore Transit would be available and Study where you could maybe Reevaluation get a cup of coffee meeting held at while you’re waiting for Riverview resident Jim Johnson looks Southshore over plans to increase HART bus service your bus. in the Southshore area. Regional Library “The idea is to creand hosted by the Hillsborough ate an area that is pleasant so people Metropolitan Planning Organization. can connect with different modes of transJohnson, who is also a board emeriportation,” she said. tus member of The Greater Riverview All five phases come at an estimated Chamber of Commerce, has lived in price tag of more than $15 million dollars. Riverview since 1957 and has watched While these proposals might give his community transform from a sleepy some Southshore residents hope for less Tampa suburb to a booming metropolis. congested roadways, these proposals “There was a time when you could must be approved by HART’s board and take a nap on Highway 301, which was the funding secured. only two lanes, and not get hit,” he joked. For more about the Southshore That wouldn’t be recommended Transit Study and its findings contact today. Sarah McKinley at the Hillsborough A big fan of HART’s bus system, Metropolitan Planning Organization at Johnson prefers keeping his car at home 273-3774 or mckinleys@plancom.org. and leaving the driving to someone else. Looking at maps detailing possible expansion of the bus service, he is In This Issue intrigued by the proposal. “This looks promising,” he said. The recommendations presented by STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL CONCERTS ...PG 3 consulting group Gannett Fleming recommended a five-phase process to increase NEW SPORTSPLEX..............................PG 9 bus service in Riverview, Gibsonton, TECO MANATEE VIEWING ...............PG 12 Apollo Beach, Ruskin and Sun City Center. TOYS FOR TOTS ................................PG 15 In the first phase, Hwy. 301 and Hwy. EYE ON BUSINESS .....................PGS 2526 41 buses would offer increased frequency during peak times as well as Saturday SPORTS CONNECTION......................PG 34 service. A park-and-ride lot would also be CHALKLINES .....................................PG 38 constructed on Gibsonton Drive. Each phase would build upon previREAD MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE ous phases, adding additional routes and www.ospreyobserver.com frequency. In phase five, two proposed
By Michelle Caceres
Osprey Observer 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, FL 33511-6121
Postal Customer
ECRWSS EDDM
PRSTD STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #2397
By Libby Hopkins
A Coach Bingo was recently held at the Winthrop Barn to raise funds for Impact, which commits teens to healthy relationships. L-r: Kerrie Hoening, Impact Bingo Coordinator, Terry Vassalotti, coach bag winner and Angie Kagey, Impact's Executive Director.
Serving Our Customers in 4 Locations: Lithia • Big Bend, Riverview • 301, Riverview • Sun City Center
Page 2
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
Best Oysters Around - Always Fresh!
December 2018
Page 3
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Florida Strawberry Festival Announces Headline Entertainment Lineup
Staff Report
The Florida Anderson & Strawberry Bobby Bare Festival released ($20) and 7:30 its lineup of p.m. Old headline enterDominion’s tainment artists Make It Sweet performing on Tour ($45). the Wish Farms “Our headSoundstage at line entertainthe 2019 event. ment lineup is Whether you are one of the most a country fan, anticipated rock, R&B or Don’t miss Kool & The Gang will perform at Get your tickets for Martina McBride, set to announcements Don’t miss Steven Tyler and The Loving the 2019 Strawberry Festival on Saturday, perform at the 2019 Strawberry Festival on we make prior oldies fan, there Mary Band, set to perform on Sunday, March March 2 at 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 4 at 7:30 p.m. 3 at 7:30 p.m. is something for to the opening everyone. The lineup is as of the festival,” said Florida follows: Strawberry Festival President Thursday, February 28 Paul Davis. “We receive many 10:30 a.m. Jimmy Sturr & His calls throughout the year leadOrchestra (Free); 3:30 p.m ing up to the event from The Oak Ridge Boys ($20) guests who are eager to hear and 7:30 p.m. ALABAMA who will be performing.” ($45); Advance tickets for admisFriday, March 1 - 3:30 sion and for headline enterp.m. Willie Nelson & Family tainment shows will go on sale ($45) and 7:30 p.m. Brothers Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 at 8 Osborne ($40); a.m. and can be purchased Old Dominion will close out the 2019 miss Home Free set to perform Saturday, March 2 - 3:30 Don’t Strawberry Festival headline concerts on online at www.flstrawberryfesat the 2019 Strawberry Festival on p.m. Home Free ($20) and Sunday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m. tival.com, at the Amscot Main Saturday, March 2 at 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Kool & the Gang Ticket Office located at 2209 Coasters ($20) and 7:30 7:30 p.m. for King & Country ($30); W. Oak Ave. in Plant City and by p.m. NEEDTO($30); Sunday, March 3 - 3:30 p.m. phone at 754-1996. BREATHE ($35); Friday, March 8 - 3:30 Chicks with Hits featuring Terri Clark, For more information about ADA Wednesday, March p.m. Tanya Tucker ($30) and Pam Tillis and Suzy Bogguss ($25) accessible seating or tour group sales, 6 - 3:30 p.m. Gene 7:30 p.m. Chris Janson and 7:30 p.m. An Evening with Steven call 719-6680. Watson ($20) and 7:30 ($30); Tyler and The Loving Mary Band ($25); p.m. STYX ($35); The 84th Annual Florida Saturday, March 9 Monday, March 4 - 3:30 p.m. Pat Strawberry Festival will take place Thursday, March 7 3:30 p.m. Florida Strawberry Boone ($20) and 7:30 p.m. Martina February 28-March 10. Visit - 10:30 a.m. The Festival’s Battle of the Bands McBride ($35); www.flstrawberryfestival.com, Kingston Trio (Free), Finale (Free) and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 5 - 3:30 p.m. The 3:30 p.m. The Letterman ($20) and Facebook, Instagram and Twitter Keith Sweat ($30); Drifters, Platters & Cornell Gunter’s (#berryfest19). Sunday, March 10 - 3:30 p.m. Bill
Marital and Family Law WENDY K. MCGINNIS, ESQUIRE ATTORNEY-AT-LAW & CERTIFIED FAMILY MEDIATOR
You put your family first. So do we. DIVORCE, PARENTING PLANS & TIME-SHARING, CHILD SUPPORT & ALIMONY, PATERNITY, ADOPTIONS, RELOCATIONS, MODIFICATIONS, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, NAME CHANGES, MEDIATION
FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION
Practicing marital and family law exclusively since 2001
(813) 235-4650
410 S. WARE BLVD., SUITE 402, TAMPA (NEAR U.S. 301 AND HWY 60)
WWW.BRANDONDIVORCE.COM The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask the lawyer to send you free written information about her qualifications and experience.
Page 4
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Seniors In Riverview Retirement Community Recreate Classic Movie Roles In 2019 Calendar
Staff Report and Photos courtesy of Huth & Booth Photography the eccentric socialite made famous by Audrey Hepburn in the 1961 movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s, she hesitated for a short time, but later agreed. “While I am not a showy person, I thought, why not? I am very pleased with the photograph and my children are so happy I did it,” said Williams. A special Premier Party was held on
The Bridges Retirement Community created a 2019 calendar featuring seniors ‘recreating’ popular Hollywood movie roles, including costumes, props and backgrounds. The residents, aged 73 to 97 years old, participated in recreating 12 movie scenes such as Thelma & Louise, Cleopatra, Grease, Sister Act, Rocky, Mary Poppins and Breakfast at Tiffany’s. For these seniors, age is no obstacle to dressing up like famous movie characters. Frank Danisi, a 96
The Bridges Retirement Community residents Inez and Charles Kilby appear as Bonnie & Clyde in the 2019 calendar recreating popular movie roles.
November 15 at The Clubhouse at The Bridges to unveil the calendar. Residents portraying movie characters walked the red carpet as part of the event. A framed 24” x 36” canvas portrait of each movie, courtesy of Huth & Booth Photography, was on display. “Involving our residents in meaningful and enjoyable projects such as these has The Bridges Retirement Community resident Shirley become a hallmark of The Michael appears as Mary Poppins in the 2019 cal- Bridges. We strive to showendar recreating popular movie roles. case their skills, share their unique stories and create an environyear-old retired Army veteran, who ment that promotes each resident’s served during WWII and received the individuality,” stated Donna Purple Heart, had not worn a tuxedo Steiermann, Executive Director. in over 50 years when he dressed up The Bridges Retirement to play the part of James Bond. “I had never experienced a professional Community in Riverview is dedicated to providing health care and housing photo shoot, let alone as the 007 for the elderly. The Bridges features character,” quipped Danisi. assisted living and memory care resiAt 97 years old, Eileen Williams dences with all amenities at 11202 has traveled much of the world as Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. Call 413the wife of a Navy Commander. 8900 or visit https://bridgesretireWhen asked to dress as the role of ment.com.
Adult Mentors Needed For Waiting List In Hillsborough County Schools
By Kate Quesada
Have you hour. Every menalways wanted to tor is trained and make a difference must pass criminal in the life of a history backteenager? The ground checks Hillsborough and abide by all Education Hillsborough Foundation (HEF) County Public is looking for at School policies least 80 adult and procedures. mentors for its They are also Taking Stock in given a grade speChildren program cific road map to (TSIC) that conguide during the nects residents weekly sessions. with middle and “We look for high school stuour mentors to be dents at local honest, caring, schools. patient, flexible, According to reliable and openTSIC Program minded,” said Manager Anna The Hillsborough Education Foundation is Laird. “This is Laird there are cur- looking for adult mentors for members of its such a great Taking Stock in Children program. rently 350 students opportunity for from sixth to anyone who twelfth really wants to grade make an involved in impact on a the program teenager, and only because with 270 mentors. the weekly meetings for at “The purpose of least a full school year, the mentor relationship they can really get to is to give these stuknow and really help the dents someone on their person they are set up side to guide them and with.” help them improve their academic and Residents who do not have the life skills,” said Laird. time to commit to a full mentor position All students in the program have can help the Foundation in other ways, been awarded a college scholarship including volunteering at the Teaching through TSIC after meeting criteria set Tools Store which offers school supby the state program. plies to teachers at Title One schools “The students all have risk factors throughout the county. that make it statistically less likely for The Foundation is funded by comthem to graduate from high school and munity and personal donations that then go on to something post secondare matched by the state. ary,” said Laird. “But they are all highly For more information or to make a motivated and eager to do well and donation, visit www.educationfoundajust need someone on their side.” tion.com. Contact Laird at 463-4283 or Mentors meet with their assigned email student weekly, at the school, for an alaird@educationfoundation.com.
Make a difference this holiday season and donate.
813-645-7874 www.marymarthahouse.org
Visit First e One g A at
Your donation is tax deductible. PO Box 1251 Ruskin Fl. 33575 • Office 1009 1st SW Ruskin FL 33570
Dr. Na ta Dr. Melie Carr Bus ti ghan Carter llo
g ptin s Acce tient Now ittle Pa L New
813-672-DENT
(3886)
Natalie Carr Bustillo, DDS, MS 11936 Boyette in Riverview Most Insurance Accepted Board Certified Pediatric Dentist www.CarrDental.com Se Habla Espanol
December 2018
W W W
Page 5
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
.
O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R
.
C O M
FOLLOW US: 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511 657-2418 (fax) 657-4469
7 © Copyright 2012-2013 - Osprey Observer, Inc. No reproduction without written permission.
MANAGING EDITOR
ASSIGNMENT EDITOR
Marie Gilmore
Michelle Colesanti
editor@ospreyobserver.com
michelle@ospreyobserver.com
LAYOUT EDITOR
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
657-2418
657-2418
Kathi Hayes
Kathy Collins
khayes@ospreyobserver.com
kcollins@ospreyobserver.com
MULTIMEDIA NEWS EDITOR
BILLING MANAGER
657-2418
657-2418
Cyndi Cisneros
Terry Vassalotti
ccisneros@ospreyobserver.com
terry@ospreyobserver.com
DELIVERY MANAGER
GRAPHICS MANAGER
657-2418
657-2418
Chuck Hoening
Denise Graf
chuck@ospreyobserver.com
denise@ospreyobserver.com
657-2418
657-2418
CELEBRATING 16 YEARS
NEWS REPORTER
Kate Quesada 657-2418
kquesada@ospreyobserver.com
OF PUBLISHING POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS!
POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS THROUGHOUT BLOOMINGDALE/FISHHAWK, RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, BRANDON, AND VALRICO DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
RIVERVIEW ADVERTISING
Patricia Tracy
Carole Fluhart
ptracy@ospreyobserver.com
carole@ospreyobserver.com
FISHHAWK & VALRICO ADVERTISING
CHRISTIAN VOICE & BRANDON ADVERTISING
657-2418
720-810-7843
Kerrie Hoening
Trisha Becker
625-1527
919-8888
kerrie@ospreyobserver.com
tbecker@ospreyobserver.com
APOLLO BEACH SOUTHSHORE ADVERTISING
Melissa Hartmann
833-7470
mhartmann@ospreyobserver.com
If interested in advertising in our Brandon or Valrico editions, please contact us at 813-657-2418. CHRISTIAN VOICE EDITOR
Amanda Boston
ASSOCIATED WITH OSPREY OBSERVER
813-777-9824
aboston@ospreyobserver.com
If you have an
Ad, Story or Press Release that you would like in the next
Bloomingdale/FishHawk edition
please contact Osprey Observer 657-2418.
Deadline for next BL/FishHawk edition is 10th of month.
11525 Big Bend Road, Riverview
Christmas Eve Services December 24, 2018
3:00 - Family Christmas Eve Service A live, interactive Christmas Eve service for the entire Family! 5:00 - Contemporary Service 7:00 - Traditional Service
VFW Riverview Post 8108 Events 7504 Riverview Dr.; 671-9845 Every Sunday; 9 a.m.-12Noon - All You Can Eat Breakfast Every Monday; 7 p.m. – Bingo Night Saturday, December 15 – Dinner; 4:30-6:30 p.m. and Karaoke; 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in the Canteen during business hours or at the door. Wimauma Shops Holiday Market Soliciting Vendors Saturday & Sunday, December 8-9 Wimauma Opportunity Center, 5128 SR 674, Wimauma Vendors sought offering unique holiday gifts and delicious treats. Contact Jackie Brown at 541-1202 or Jackie.Brown@EnterprisingLatinas.org for more info. Test Drive A Shelter Dog Every Thursday; 2-5 p.m. Brandon Honda, 9209 E Adamo Dr., Tampa Meet lovable certified shelter dogs from HCAS Pet Resource Center. #GetEmHomeChallege (Maddie’s Fund) Monthly Car Show & Cannoli First Saturday of month; 2-5 p.m. Beve Cibo, 5622 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Lithia Sponsored by First Light Home Care. 50/50 Raffle supports Relay for Life $1 of every Sparkling Berries Cocktail donated back to Relay. 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 Savannah Court Of Brandon Third Tuesday of Month; 6 p.m. Savannah 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 Third Thursday of the Month; 2 p.m. 851 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon For information or to register, call 661-8998 - M-F 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Congregation Beth Shalom Shabbat Services – Fridays; 7 p.m. 706 Bryan Rd., Brandon Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. All welcome. Call 681-6547. Calling All Marines, FMF Corpsmen And FMF Chaplains First Tuesday of the Month; 7 p.m. Alafia American Legion Post #148, 7240 US Hwy. 301 in Riverview. The Sgt. Walter P. Ryan Detachment of the Marine Corps League is looking for new members. All Marines welcome. Other military branch members accepted too. Email mclsgtryan@gmail.com or call Ron Essick at 503-0390. FREE ESTIMATES
for both Landscaping and Lawn Care!
Service Includes: Established Since 2002 We also offer: • Mowing Landscape Design • Trimming and • Edging Installation • Weeding of the flower beds Licensed & Insured • Blowing off all surfaces NICOLE@GREENLIZARDLAWNS.COM • Trimming of shrubbery Military Discounts WWW.GREENLIZARDLAWNS.COM
Page 6
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
l’s e n n a h C History N PICKERS A AMERICr Locals For The Look Fo w & More… Sho Michelle Colesanti,
significant objects a new lease on life, while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way. Mike and Frank have seen a lot of rusty gold over d by m Compile preyobserver.co the years and are @os michelle always looking to discover something they have never seen before. They are
AMERICAN PICKERS To Film In Florida
Mike Wolfe, Frank Fritz, and their team are excited to return to Florida. They plan to film episodes of the hit series AMERICAN PICKERS throughout the region in February 2019. AMERICAN PICKERS is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique ‘picking’ on History. The hit show follows Mike and Frank, two of the most skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. They are always excited to find sizeable, unique collections and learn the interesting stories behind them. As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, Mike and Frank are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics. Along the way, the Pickers want to meet characters with remarkable and exceptional items. The pair hopes to give historically
a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the Pickers can spend the better part of the day looking through, send your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-OLDRUST (653-7878). Visit on Facebook @GotAPick.
Democrat Club January Meeting
Max is a diamond in the rough! He is a handsome fella that likes to perch up high on the shelf in the townhouse and occasionally come down for a chin scratch. He is venturing out more in the social scene and is ready to venture out to a forever home. Call C.A.R.E. at 6452273or visit http://careshelter.org/.
Join the South Shore Democratic Club for the January 3 meeting, held at the (golf cart friendly) Sun City Center Chamber of Commerce, 1651 Sun City Center Plaza, Sun City Center. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month. Meet ‘n Mingle with refreshments at 1 p.m.; General Meeting at 1:30 p.m. All Democrats and like-minded individuals are invited and encouraged to
attend. Please visit and Like the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SSDEMCLUB or visit www.SouthShoreDemocrats.org for more information.
Summerfield Ladies Club
The Ladies Club Annual Christmas/Holiday Dinner is Thursday, December 13 at 11 a.m. The dinner will be catered by Olive Garden. The cost is $12 for members & $15 per guest. Guests are always welcome. Unwrapped gifts for the Deputy Darlings will be collected, if you choose to donate. It’s always special to light up a child’s Christmas/Holiday. ready to find extraordinary items Entertainment will be and hear fascinating tales about held by an Elvis them. AMERICAN PICKERS is lookImpersonator. Email ing for leads and would love to Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz are on a mission to find mgraczyk2@verizon.net for explore your hidden treasure. extraordinary items among your hidden treasure for AMER- information. If you or someone you know has ICAN PICKERS.
MONOGRAMMING AND SO MUCH MORE!
Joyful Mini's LLC 941-889-9157
These unique cheesecake miniatures come in three sizes; bite sized, cups & mini.
We Carry Inis and Simply Southern products!
$5.00 off $25
Boutique Items Only (Excludes Inis and Simply Southern) Expires: December 31 2018
(813) 641-0808
6126 N. US Hwy. 41 (in the Waterside Shoppes) Apollo Beach
SBA/USDA Loans
Achieve your business goals with the help of an SBA or USDA Loan. Commercial Real Estate / Business Acquisition / Franchise Financing
SBA Preferred Lender
Hours: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm
SHOP ONLINE TOO AT:
WWW.SOUTHSHOREBOUTIQUE.COM
Michael Archer
Business Development Officer SBA & USDA
Learn More!
Mobile: 813-357-4472 Office: 770-635-2803
www.geobanking.com
December 2018
Page 7
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
A Call To Artists Has Been Issued For The 11th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival And Market
By Kathy L. Collins
A call to The artists has Winthrop Arts been issued Festival and for the 11th Market is a Annual juried fine art Winthrop Arts show. Festival and Mediums Market, which including will be held on Artists of varying mediums are encouraged to enter painting, phothe 11th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Market. tography, jewSaturday, Applications for the show are now available. Space is March 30 and elry making, limited and artists will be eligible for cash prizes Sunday, March sculpture, including two for Emerging Artists. 31, 2019 from glass, ceram10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Winthrop Town ics fabric/textiles, wood, digital arts and Centre in Riverview. All artists who are more are accepted. The show has interested in having their art work conbecome a recognized and eagerly sidered for this juried fine arts show, awaited annual event. Artists who are can visit www.winthroparts.org and accepted into the show will be eligible learn more on how to apply. to win monetary awards. This year over Applications for the show are being $5,000 is available including two new accepted through Zapplication, a free awards for Emerging Artists. The show site for artists. Zapplication allows indiis judged by highly qualified judges. vidual artists to apply online to art Artist, Paul Sumberg has participatshows. Artists can directly download ed in the show over the years. images and pay online and the informa- Sumberg said, “I live in the North tion only has to be entered once. The Georgia mountains where I am only a direct link to the application is few miles in any direction from numerhttps://www.zapplication.org/eventous art festivals throughout the year. I info.php?ID=6949. would much rather come to Riverview For the 11th Annual Winthrop Arts to participate in the Annual Winthrop Festival and Market, there is an appliArts Festival and Market because the cation fee of $25. Once artists and artifestival is all about art.” sans are notified of their acceptance There are sponsorships opportuniinto the show, there is a ties available at varying levels. This participation/booth fee of $125. includes the Friends of Winthrop Arts at Vendors are encouraged to apply as $125. This level allows anyone who well. Their booth fee is $150. The dead- loves the arts to support the arts. line to apply is March 10, 2019. Space For more information, please visit is limited, so you are encouraged to www.winthroparts.org, email enter early. info@winthroparts.org or call 758-5161.
Southwest Florida Rheumatology Specializing in treatment of:
Rheumatoid Arthritis • Psoriatic Arthritis Osteoporosis • Gout • Osteoasthritis • Lupus ON SITE: Infusion • Lab Ultrasound
Accepting NewPatients most insurance accepted
Dr. Priya Reddy M.D. FACR Board Certified Rheumatologist
11954 Boyette Rd., Riverview
813-672-2243
www.SWFLRHEUM.com
We Wish You a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
CUSTOM HAIR For the hair you’ve always wanted!
Thin Hair?
• Human Hair & Synthetic Hair Wigs • Permanent, Non-Surgical Options • Chemotherapy & Alopecia Specialist • Largest selection in Tampa Bay • We also service Men’s Hair Systems 117 N. Kings Ave • Brandon • (813) 651-9484
www.CustomHairTampaBay.com
PCG Sun City Center’s
Precious Coins & Gold SPECIALIST IN ALL ROLEX
Need Cash For The Holidays?
Buying: GOLD & SILVER • COINS • JEWELRY • COLLECTIBLES
Call: (863) 899-8048 or (813)373-2802 Hours: Mon-Thur 9-3 Fri & Sat 9-2 Closed Sunday Private appointments available.
1651 Sun City Center Blvd, Sun City Center (Located inside The Sun City Center Chamber of Commerce)
Page 8
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
St. Anne Catholic Church True To Its Vision For The Poor
By Joe Kerr
Custom cut the church every and beautifully Wednesday from 9 arranged stained a.m.-12 Noon and glass windows 4-7 p.m., and twice tell the story of St. weekly on Anne Catholic Wednesday and Church. Many Saturday, it feeds mark historical and ministers to moments in the the homeless. Bible: the Partnering with St. Anne Catholic Church is located in Ruskin Catholic Relief Apostles, St. with a congregation of more than 3,000 Anne, Jesus with Services, St. Anne families. the little children. will prepare and Other windows, ship more than celebrate parish 20,000 meals to milestones, from the poor and hunits 60th gry in Burkina Anniversary in Faso, Africa. 2016 to its dedication to creating a legacy St. Anne’s Saints in Training ministry of hope for future generations. to youth reaches hundreds of young peoThe first line of the Parish Prayer ple who will carry on the work of this thrivreads, “Loving Father, we, the living ing church, guaranteeing the fulfillment of stones of St. Anne Church, warmly welthe last line of the Parish Prayer, come all God’s children into our commu“Together, as a parish family, we hope to nity.” That prayer and vision motivate the continue growing in God’s Grace and South Shore Parish to serve its diverse Love.” body, which includes local Floridians, and Masses are held daily Mondaymembers from Latin American, Europe, Friday at 8 a.m., Saturdays at 4:30 p.m., Haiti, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Asia. and Sundays at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and Father John F. McEvoy, V.F. came to 12:30 p.m., with Spanish Mass at 5 p.m. St. Anne in 2003, leading it through much (full schedule of services posted on St. of its current expansion. The seventh Anne’s website pastor at St. Anne, Father McEvoy faithhttps://saintanneruskin.org/). fully leads the growing congregation of To become a part of this community more than 3,000 families from the Ruskin of faith, volunteer, find out more about the area, including Apollo Beach, South Catholic faith, or benefit from the many Gibsonton and Sun City Center. programs and ministries at St. Anne, Many churches help the poor. St. please visit the campus at 106 11th. Ave. Anne is a shining example of how to do it N.E. in Ruskin. Contact the church office well. More than 500 families are fed by at 645-1714.
In-Home Care & Assistance
We accept most long-term care insurance policies. We are a Medicaid provider. Now accepting Select Medicaid waivers. Some of our many services include, but are not limited to... • Personal Grooming 2-Hour to 24-Hour Care • Light Housekeeping including Meal Prep • Alzheimer’s Assistance • Medication Set Ups and Reminders In-Home Consultation • Companions • Grocery Shopping • Private Duty, In Home or Facility • Transportation for All Your Needs • Emergency Room Assistance
FREE
HAS YOUR PET GONE HOLISTIC? Treat your favorite Fur Kids to something special for the holidays! Come in and see our great selection of Happy yummy holiday treats & fun holiday s! Holiday toys and accessories!
Gift Cards Available
(Redeemable at Both Locations) Visit Our Two Convenient Locations
5620 FishHawk Crossing Blvd., Lithia
13131 US 301 S., Riverview
813.651.0842
813.374.4743
FishHawk Ranch Publix Shopping Center
Next to Wendy’s
www.doggoneholistic.biz
Love, Joy and Peace are the ingredients for a wonderful Christmas. We hope you find them all this festive season. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Robin Rae Huntley, EA 200 Frandorson Circle #210, Apollo Beach (Frandorson Square)
ROBIN@RAESACCOUNTING.COM
|
813.540.1040
| WWW.RAESACCOUNTING.COM
December 2018
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Hillsborough County Encourages Hiking With Annual Spree
By Kate Quesada
With the weather cooland Steven J. Worthan ing off, December is the Neighborhood Park in perfect time to enjoy Riverview, Little Florida’s great outdoors Manatee River Corridor and Hillsborough County Nature Preserve in recently launched its annuWimauma and Lithia al program to encourage Springs Conservation residents get out and Park in Lithia. One of explore the many local the hikes can be at a trails and parks. location of the particiLast year, more than pant’s choice that is not 5,000 people participated on the list. in Hillsborough County’s Trails range from Hiking Spree which fealess than a mile to more Hillsborough County is tures 25 trails in 19 locathan four miles and encouraging residents to tions throughout the county, from easy to strenuous. explore local trails with its annual Hiking Spree from now A list of all the participatmany in the SouthShore until March 31, 2019. area. Residents are ing hikes with informaencouraged to register on the tion about length, difficulty levels and terHillsborough County website and then rain can be found at www.hillsboroughcomplete a minimum of eight of the trails county.org. before March 31, 2019. “We chose the trails to give residents “Participants may hike on their own, a really good range of the gorgeous trails with others or on our guided park staff Hillsborough County has to offer,” said hikes,” said Dana McDonald, Senior McDonald. “We wanted to showcase Program Coordinator with Hillsborough some of the less popular ones we know County. “Each trail is a unique, fun way to residents will enjoy and also make sure explore outdoor Florida.” we have a wide range of difficulty levels Upon completion of the hikes, resiso there are options for everyone.” dents should turn their completed form to Participants are encouraged to post one of seven local park locations, includphotographs from their hikes on social ing the Ruskin Recreational Center, and media using the hashtag #TakeAHikeHC. can then chose a medallion or an official For information or to register, visit Hiker Patch as a reward. www.hillsboroughcounty.org and search Local parks with participating trails “Hiking Spree.” To receive a reward by include Bahia Beach Nature Preserve, mail, send a completed form with a E.G. Simmons Conservation Park and stamped/self-addressed envelope to Cockroach Creek Nature Preserve in HCPRD Hiking Spree; Bell Creek Ruskin, Triple Creek Nature Preserve, Regional Park Office; 10940 McMullen FishHawk Creek South Nature Preserve Rd. Riverview, FL 33569.
Page 9
New County $17 Million SportsPlex Will Draw From Across County
By Kate Quesada
“Hillsborough County is building and will own the facility, which will be managed by the Tampa Sports Authority,” said Van Dyke. “Construction is funded by the County, with additional funding through the Tourist Development Tax and support from the Hillsborough County Tourist Development Council.” According to Van Dyke, a feasibility study projects the SportsPlex will have Hillsborough County officials and guests gathered for a sneak peak of the new $17 million SportsComplex which will host its first tournament in January.
The Brandon area will soon be home to one of the country’s most stateof-the-art sports facilities. The Hillsborough County Tournament SportsPlex, located on Columbus Dr. between U.S. Hwy. 301 and Falkenburg Rd., is home to 15 fields that will be used for a variety of sports starting in January. County representatives gathered earlier this month to celebrate the opening of the complex, expected to draw championship-level athletic events with teams from all over the country. “The 65-acre facility can be configured for a variety of sports, including soccer, football, lacrosse, rugby, cricket, ultimate (played with a flying disc) and field hockey,” said Hillsborough County Communications and Digital Media Representative Michelle Van Dyke. The $17 million SportsPlex is a partnership between Hillsborough County, the Tampa Sports Authority and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission.
an economic impact of $7.3 million in its first year and $25 million in the fifth year. The first major tournament, the United States Flag and Touch Football League’s National Championships, is scheduled for January 18-20, 2019. Each field features professionally maintained Celebration Bermudagrass while the SportsPlex offers wireless internet access throughout, high-tech LED lightning which will also cut energy consumption by up to 65 percent and a robotic field striper that uses GPS to automatically line the fields. There is also a championship field with bleacher seating, adjacent to a 35,000 sq. ft. vendor village area for celebrations and sales. The SportsComplex is located at 9330 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa. For more information, visit www.hillsbroughcounty.org.
Page 10
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
December 2018
Five Ways to Support Your Community This Holiday Season
Family Features
Each year, your knowledge the true spirit of and skills to work. the holidays can For example, if seem to get you’re an artist or buried further IT specialist, find a beneath mouncharity that needs tains of wrapping your skill set. paper and Think Longdrowned out by Term commercialism. When you’re However, working with an when it comes to organization, conthe holidays, gifts Photo courtesy of Getty Images sider how you can This holiday season, focus on gifts that make help it find a longdon’t have to an impact, such as giving back within your comcome in glossy term solution to munity. paper with crisp problems. For example, if you’re interestedges and hidden tape (though those are ed in helping young girls excel in science nice, too). For example, author Carol and math, work with your local elemenLavin Bernick recommends focusing on tary or junior high school to establish or gifts that make an impact, such as giving support an after-school STEM program. back within your community. Start at Home The former chairman of beauty conTeach your children the importance glomerate Alberto Culver, Bernick pubof giving back by donating gifts to those in lished Gather As You Go, a book sharing need through charitable programs, voluninsights she has learned through her teering at a food pantry or fundraising many roles: corporate leader, working through a bake sale. mother, philanthropist and founder of the Shop with Purpose nonprofit organization Enchanted This year, you can make an impact Backpack. with your holiday shopping by buying gifts Consider these tips from Bernick for that give back. For instance, all proceeds making a difference without breaking the from “Gather As You Go” directly benefit bank. Enchanted Backpack.
It’s About More Than Just Dollars
Instead of measuring your support by how much money you give, focus on the many ways you can support organizations near and dear to you by spreading the word online and in-person while recruiting new supporters. Alternatively, you can find an organization that puts
Page 11
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Focus on Your Passions
Define your focus and make a difference by dedicating yourself to one or two causes that excite you the most. Find your passion and pursue it. Find more inspiration to give back at gatherasyougo.com.
Veterans Preserve Their Stories With Library Of Congress History Project
By Michelle Colesanti
Every veteran has a the Red Cross is recorded at story to tell and the repreFPCB. sentatives of the Veterans The Brandon project has History Project want to conducted interviews of vets record those stories to from World War II through share with future generaOperation Enduring Freedom: tions. Their lives reflect combat vets and military supUSA history and the manport staff, including women ner in which a veteran who served. Gold Star famiserves their country and lies may record the history of Dan Craft served active family, and ultimately builds their loved one. duty in WWII in the Philippines. their life. Jim McNeil, who served The Veterans History in the Army during the Korean Project was created by the conflict said, “I am grateful to United States Congress in Judy Smolk and everyone 2000. else who made me aware of The 1st Presbyterian the Veterans History Project Church of Brandon (FPCB) and offered me the opportunibecame a host site for the ty for my military experience interviews in January 2016. to be recorded for the future.” The Florida West Coast McNeil’s military experience Region of the American Jim McNeil served in the took place from August 1951 Army during the Korean until July 1953. “The story of Red Cross supervises and Conflict. staffs the project. To date, my service to my country has the Brandon project has been repeated many times by recorded 42 interviews me to my children, and now to encompassing a variety of know that my military experiveterans’ experiences, ence has been recorded and since that time. A digital will be sent to the Library of recording is sent to the Congress for preservation Library of Congress for which will allow future generapreservation, and grateful tions of my family and the families receive a treasured world to continue to read facts DVD of the interview. The of my military experience.” Kiersten Downs served in service is free. FPCB is located at 121 the Air Force in Operation Iraqi Freedom and The successful project Carver Ave. in Brandon. For Operation Enduring continues with appointmore information or to schedFreedom. ments available in ule an interview, contact the November and December. A private inter- FPCB office between 9 a.m-1 p.m. view with an experienced interviewer from Monday through Friday at 689-4597.
Merry Merry Christmas Christmas aand nd
Happy Happy ew Year! New N
Order Order Your Holiday Pies Today! Pecan • Pumpkin • Sweet Potato • Mince Meat Apple • Cherry • Blueberry • Raspberry French Apple • Strawberry • Caramel Apple Crunch Rhubarb • Strawberry Rhubarb • Key Lime Banana Cream • Coconut Cream • Peanut Butter Fat Elvis • Banana Split • Lemon Meringue Cookies ‘N’ Cream
TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: 10451 Gibsonton Drive 2702 E. College Avenue Riverview Ruskin (813)515-4179 (813)938-1888
Page 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
TECO’s Manatee Viewing Center Now Open To Visitors
By Taylor Wells
It is that time of the year again as the manatees take up residence near TECO Energy's Big Bend Power Station. Bring your family and friends to visit and take this chance to marvel at the sea cows at the Manatee Viewing Center. The manatees make the clean bay water in Tampa Electric’s discharge canal their home from November through April. The area maintains temperatures in the low 70s, allowing manatees to comfortably thrive. Water below 68 degree Fahrenheit can make manatees cold stressed, causing sickness and sometimes death. Although they were reclassified as a threatened species last year, A close-up of a manatee’s face as it resurmanatees exist in low numbers and faces. are vulnerable to endangerment, so TECO provides a wonderful opportunity for manatee populations of Florida to live and grow healthily at the Manatee Viewing Center. In addition to providing these marine mammals an area to prosper, people are given the chance to have a fun time while seeing and learning about the manatees. A crowd taking in the manatees. The Manatee manatees. The education building Viewing Center provides an environalso has puzzle tables, game kiosks, mental education building featuring manatee bones and power plant, solar great photos and information about
board area, butterfly garden, gift shop and concession stand. There is also a stingray touch tank that, in partnership with the Florida Aquarium, acts as the off-season home of the actual mascots of Major League Baseball's Tampa Bay Rays. Visiting the The stingray touch tank containing the Tampa Bay Rays’ mas- Manatee Viewing cots. Center is free. Along with being operated by Tampa Electric, the gift shop, concession stand and donation boxes all help fund the facility. As many as 342,000 visitors spent time at the Manatee Viewing Center last year. The Manatee Viewing Center is open now through April 15, 2019. It is located at 6990 Dickman Rd. in Apollo Beach and is open all week from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The center is closed on Christmas Eve The wildlife observation tower is 50 ft. tall, allowing (at 3 p.m.), Christmas Day and guests a great view of the area. Easter. Parking is free. For more information, visit energy and stewardship information. www.tampaelectric.com/company/mvc Other attractions include viewing /, call 228-4289 or use TECO’s platforms, a 900 ft. tidal walk through Residential Contact Us Form at a mangrove forest that goes out over www.tampaelectric.com/forms/resithe water, 10-15 minute movie about dential/contact/ (select Manatee manatees, natures trails, 50 ft. wildlife observation tower, sandbox and chalk- Viewing Center in the pull-down box).
December 2018
Page 13
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Experience Tea, Bowls And Desserts With A Filipino Flair
By Michelle Colesanti Holliman-Katipunan, has a culinary degree with Filipino roots. Her delicious Chicken Adobo is the most popular menu item. We tried the Pancit, Filipino style noodles called ‘bihon’, along with Lumpia, a Filipino style egg roll, cooked
PERSONAL INJURY
FAMILY LAW
The Osprey Observer staff recently got to enjoy learning about tea blends and the health benefits while also enjoying lunch at TBD@301.
Recently the staff at the Osprey Observer was invited to visit TBD@301, a new café. This gem, which stands for Tea, Bowls and Desserts, stands tucked away in a shopping center at 3840 US Hwy. 301 S. in Riverview (across from the Publix plaza). This new business is well worth the stop, and once you do, you will want to return again and again. The owners, Isabella Rosal and her husband Jerwin, along with his brother JP Rosal, founded TBD@301 to create an impact on the human food experience, embracing diversity, creativity and fun at the same time. Dylan Chadwell, TBD@301’s tea guru, hosted a tea class for us. An expert at blending teas, he helped us decide what ingredients to include in our individually created blends. We learned what positive effects the different types of herbs offered. All of the teas are organic. “We pledge to bring tea lovers an exceptional experience with the best loose leaf teas nature has to offer, by sourcing the highest quality teas with passion and integrity," said Chadwell. Tea blending classes take place once a month, usually on the third Saturday of the month, online or instore. Take home your self-blended flavor for the day. The fee includes your kit comprising of your tea (2 oz.), mixing kit, manual/instructions and tea bags. The fee is $35 per person. Group rates are available for a minimum of seven people. Visit the café or www.tbdcafe.com/events to sign up. Many tea blends are available for purchase as well as offered on the menu. Be sure to include some Bobo (tapioca balls) in your tea. The most popular teas served are the Lychee Dragon and Thai teas. The in-house chef, Maria
and made in-house. It is the Monday special. It was my first time trying this and the flavors worked amazingly well together. Don’t forget dessert. If you are too full after the meal, take some home with you. For something different, try the Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake. Gluten free cheesecakes and edible cookie dough are available. A fan of the Paradise Oolong Tea with Boba, Melissa Hartmann returns often. She said, “It’s nice to have a nice refreshing lunch and be able to go back to work energized.” It is not just the food and drinks. According to Isabella, “Team TBD is constantly making efforts to implement ways to contribute to a better community.” The staff wants to make sure you get what you deserve, in the most economical, efficient and sustainable way possible. Five cents from each cup sold goes to g3 life applications. As a member of the responsiblecafe.org, a 20 cent discount is given if you use your own cup. Can’t get out for a meal? Delivery services are available through Grubhub, DoorDash and Uber Eats. Hours are Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Call 4200013 or visit www.tbdcafe.com.
Vanessa A. Bevington Allen S. Carman Michael J. Finegan SELECTED TO 2017 AND 2018 SUPER LAWYERS RISING STAR LIST MEMBER OF HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY AND EAST HILLSBOROUGH BAR ASSOCIATIONS
FORMER ATTORNEY FOR A MAJOR AUTO INSURANCE COMPANY
MEMBER OF THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY AND EAST HILLSBOROUGH BAR ASSOCIATIONS
FREE CONSULTATION PERSONAL INJURY
FAMILY LAW
- CAR ACCIDENTS
- DIVORCE/PATERNITY
- TRUCK ACCIDENTS
- ALIMONY AND CHILD SUPPORT
- MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS
- PARENTING PLANS AND TIME-SHARING
- WRONGFUL DEATH ACCIDENTS
- PRE-NUPTIAL AGREEMENTS
- PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE ACCIDENTS - DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INJUNCTIONS
NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN!
WWW.BRANDONLEGAL.COM
HONESTY & INTEGRITY THEOFCORNERSTONE BUSINESS! A unique Boutique-Style CPA !irm providing small businesses & individuals with personalized tax and accounting services.
• Upfront pricing, reasonable rates with no surprise invoices • Clear deadlines for completion of work USE • Being available to clients year round THERESA TURNER OWNER / FOUNDER TAX HAPPENS? • Empowering clients to do as much or as little as they desire
(813) 654-3444 223 LITHIA PINECREST RD., BRANDON
WHY
Certified Public Accountant Master’s Degree in Taxation Proud Member Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce
4.9 STAR RATING (52 Reviews)
5 STAR RATING (36 reviews)
813.304.5569 | www.TaxHappens.com
10018 Park Place Ave • Riverview (just off I-75 & Gibsonton Dr - Exit 250)
THE HIRING OF A LAWYER IS AN IMPORTANT DECISION THAT MUST NOT BE BASED ON ADVERTISEMENT, YOU MAY REQUEST INFORMATION CONCERNING LAWYER’S CREDENTIALS FROM THIS FIRM
Page 14
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
Pepin Academies Offer Personalized Student Education & Riverview Campus It is a given that not everyone will have the same experience in school, but many students can find themselves struggling because the public school system may not be able to serve their needs. This is where Pepin Academies steps in and shines. Pepin Academies, established in 1999, are 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, tuition-free, public charter schools that are specialized in giving students with learning and learningPepin’s makerspace will be part of its STEM Dr. Jeff Skowronek and Principal Geri Henry standing in the entrance of the Riverview related disabilities the education they program and strengthen and expand its eduPepin Academies campus. cational opportunities. need that other schools cannot offer. before and would not have been possiPepin Academies teaches students from ing sports, music, dance, culinary arts, ble without this grant,” said Skowronek. National Honor Society, many kinds of 3rd through 12th grade and offers a “We are also making a concerted effort clubs, and more. Transition Program in which graduating to advance our career training options The smaller schools and classstudents ages 18-22 can take steady across our campuses, including advancrooms can allow students to more easily steps into occupations that fit them ing our culinary, food-based programhave their needs met. Combined with through job training. ming, adding opportunities for Microsoft eligible students being provided free Currently, three campuses serve certifications and even considering the therapy–including social workers, mental over 1,100 students. Hillsborough potential for programs related to health health counselors, occupational theraCounty has two campuses, located in professions.” pists, physical therapists, sensory inteRiverview and Tampa, and Pasco Skowronek added, “One of our gration and speech and language proCounty has a campus in New Port biggest goals for the next couple of grams–and its excellent staff and adminRichey. years is to just expand our programs so istrators, Pepin Academies can provide “I think what Pepin does, and what that students have more opportunities. a quality educational experience. its purpose is, is to give students an There is something for everybody in this Recently, the Suncoast Credit Union education that they’re simply not able to world, and I think by enhancing our proawarded Pepin an over $11,000 grant get in a typical traditional school sysgramming we’re gonna provide more for a Robotics club that will give its stutem,” said Dr. Jeff Skowronek, the execopportunities for every student to figure dents the chance to explore STEM (sciutive director of the Hillsborough County out what that something is.” ence, technology, engineering, and Pepin Academies campuses. “It’s not Pepin wishes to continue growing that we’re better, what we do is different, math) learning throughout its campuses and enhancing its high school and tranin makerspaces. In these spaces, stuand no one can do that different thing sitional programs for the benefit of its dents can channel their creativity into the way we can.” students so that they can be more preexploring and building productive and Pepin Academies offer a school pared for their preferred careers. It functional things through learning about experience just like other educational seeks to include more community partrobotics and circuitry. institutions. Students can enjoy a large ners offering real-world, hands-on pre“This is something we did not have variety of extracurricular activities involv-
By Taylor Wells
Students in art class.
vocational training for its students and strengthen their STEM program in the future for the sake of students becoming the best productive citizens they can be. Pepin Academies’ goal is “to empower students with learning and learning-related disabilities to reach their full potential by providing a high-quality education in a stimulating, low-threat learning environment with a wide variety of services.” Through these schools, students can overcome adversity brought on through learning difficulties and better develop their social skills for life as an adult. To learn more about the Pepin Academies Riverview campus, call 5332999. The Riverview campus can be found at 9304 Camden Field Parkway. To learn more about the other schools of Pepin Academies, call 2361755 for the Tampa campus located at 3916 E Hillsborough Ave., and call 727233-2961 for the Pasco County campus located at 9804 Little Rd. in New Port Richey. For more information, visit pepinacademies.com.
December 2018
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Small Businesses Are Finding Success With SBA Backed Loans
Staff Report
Michael Archer “As a business understands the development strategist, financial needs of my commitment is to the local and be a participant in the regional small busimassive growth, develnesses. opment, and exciteHe said, ment the Tampa Bay “When businesses Region is experiencing. are ready to start, I love being part of the expand, or acquire Tampa Bay communianother existing ty,” said Archer. business, the lending process is the critical step they must take that facili- Michael Archer is an experienced business development tates that. Without officer with GBC Business the lending process Capital. in place, small businesses would be forced to self-fund using Archer believes in customer service. cash or savings.” “Good service is hard to come by. In a An SBA (Small Business time where most consumers believe good Administration) backed loan offers a small customer service is dead, I still believe in business access to capital for start-up or the personal touch. It is not lost on me for expansion. The loan proceeds can be that I am in the services industry. I am used for Working Capital, Furniture and here to serve these small businesses with Fixtures, Machinery and Equipment, Real their lending needs. I make it a point to Estate, and Business Acquisition. The return phone calls and emails promptly. terms are more flexible with regards to liq- My job is to shepherd the loan from start uidity, length of time in business, and to finish, and that involves keeping the overall profitability. business owner aware of the progress Archer is an experienced business each step of the way.” development officer with GBC Business Archer resides in Valrico with his wife Capital, whose headquarters is based in Aimee and his two sons, Elijah, and TJ. Atlanta, Georgia. Archer has a demonHe is also an active Kiwanian with strated history of working in the banking Kiwanis of Riverview. industry, and brings 15 years of experiTalk to Archer and see what he can ence. He specializes in loans for start-up do for you and your growing business. He businesses, expansions, franchises, new can be reached at his office at 770-635locations, business acquisitions and com- 2803, cell 357-4472, or email at mercial real estate lending. marcher@geobanking.com.
... “Relax ke a t we’ll it.” care of
Page 15
Toy Donation Efforts Celebrated At Tots Collection Party On Saturday, December 15, Donald Pearson of Pearson Capital, along with help from Account Manager, Ann Hathaway, will host a Big Collection Party for Toys for Tots at The Alley, located at 10221 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. The party, which will be held from 1-5 p.m., is a culmination of the Toys for Tots collection effort that has taken place now for 13 years. These local Toys for Tots Campaigns are the heart and soul of the Marine Toys for Tots Program managed by dedicated United States Marines and local volunteers. Donald and his father, Walter Pearson, held their first Toys For Tots Collection Party in 2005 where businesses donated 32 boxes of toys. The Big Collection Party used to be held at the VFW, but when they outgrew the space, it was moved to The Alley, 10221 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Due to Pearson’s collection efforts, this is now the top collection in Hillsborough County. Throughout the early season, 100 collection boxes are set up at various local businesses. The businesses then bring the collected toys to the party. The party is open to the public and families are welcome to come and enjoy food and soft drinks for free. The price of admission is the donation of an unwrapped toy, bike or cash donation. There will be a DJ entertaining, and
By Michelle Colesanti
Santa Claus will be there from 2-4 p.m. to delight the younger crowd. “The owner of the Alley, Jeff Boje, donates paper plates, soft drinks and silverware as well as the space,” said Donald. Donald feels good knowing that every needy family in the SouthShore area will be taken care of. He feels blessed that this is something he can do to give back to the community. He said, “It is nice to find ways to give back.” He personally makes sure that there is enough food and drink for all of those who attend. “You come to the party and I guarantee the shrimp will not run out,” he commented. For more information, or to make a cash or check (written out to Toys for Tots) donation, call Pearson at 641-7575. The Marines from the 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion will be in attendance to welcome visitors as well as to help gather up the toys at the end of the party, when they will bring the donations to the Toys For Tots distribution centers. For more information, email Hathaway at pearsoncapital7@gmail.com. For more information on the Marines Toys for Tots, visit www.toysfortots.org.
Quality, Honest & Dependable Residential & Commercial Repairs
Over 40 Years of Experience • Licensed and Insured • Fla. Certified # CBC 1257048
Carpentry • Ceiling Fans Faucet & Toilet Repair • Drywall Repair Painting • Laminate Flooring Call for a FREE Estimate
(813) 737-5544 (813)
www.BauerHandyman.com MILITARY DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE
Mission Statement - Hebrews 6:10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.
HAVE YOUR DOG BE SWEET SMELLING & HUGGABLE FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
Page 16
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
The Greater Riverview Chamber Of Commerce Ribbon Cuttings
Compiled By Michelle Colesanti
The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) has been busy welcoming new businesses as well as celebrating with established businesses celebrating milestones.
room, free wireless internet, a pool and a fitness center. The hotel is located at 8610 Elem Fair Blvd. in Tampa, directly across US Hwy. 301 from the Florida State Fairgrounds. To book a group or a business meeting, please contact Lauren Bunton at 693-0095.
Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting For ECHO’s New Riverview Location
GRCC members were invited to celebrate ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization), as it opened the doors to the new Riverview location. Photo Courtesy of Huth & Booth Photography GRCC Chamber members along ECHO of Riverview with Valrico-Fishhawk Chamber members, ECHO board, staff and volunteers showed for the ribbon cutting ceremony. ECHO has been providing help for over 30 years from its Brandon location. From this new location they will be able to assist residents of southeastern Hillsborough County with emergency food, clothing and access to life-stabilizing programs and resources. The new ECHO Riverview is Photo Courtesy of Huth & Booth Photography located at 7807 Capitano St. in the Toffee Tradition & DiMisa 721 Gourmet Catering Riverview Neighborhood Park building. It will be open Tuesday–Friday Sub can be ordered as an individual meal from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit or in a pan to serve family style. Meals www.ECHOFL.org for more information are available via take-out or through or for ways to help. catering services. The delicious family tradition toffees are available by the bag or Chamber Welcomes Toffee Tradition as an addition to your catering order. & DiMisa 721 Gourmet Catering You will find the walk-up window at GRCC members were welcomed 8205 S US Hwy. 301, just north of the Toffee Tradition & DiMisa 721 Gourmet Alafia River next door to Peck’s. While Catering to Riverview. A large group of you are deciding what to take home for members along with friends and family of dinner, enjoy a tasty ice cream treat or owner Jennifer Rhoades showed for the delicious latte. Find them on Facebook to ribbon cutting ceremony. discover latest specials or call 758-8472. Toffee Tradition & DiMisa 721 Visit ToffeeTradition.com. Gourmet Catering is happy to share family traditions of making delicious toffee and GRCC Celebrates The Re-Opening Of homemade Italian dinners with the comHoliday Inn Express Hotel & Suites munity. Many of Rhoade’s offerings are Fairgrounds named after loved ones who are responGRCC members recently celebrated sible for the dish. Items like Nonna the grand re-opening of Holiday Inn Josephine’s hand breaded chicken cutlet Express Hotel & Suites Fairgrounds. The with mac n cheese or Joey D’s Meatball crowd was treated to a wonderful lunch
Milk Tea Boba, Tea Leaves and Filipino Food To Go! 3840 US-301 S, RIVER 3840 RIVERVIEW VIEW (813) 420-0013 (813) MON. - TH MON. THUR. UR. 10 - 7 | FFRI. RI. - SAT. SAT. 10 - 8 | CLO CLOSED SED SUNDAY SUNDAY
WWW.TBDCAFE.COM WWW WWW.TBDCAFE.COM .TBDCAFE.COM Text TBD301 to 33733 Mention this ad for a FREE scoop of cookie dough!
Assisted Living for Memory Care Day Stay & Respite Programs
Support Groups for Caregivers Call today to visit our community.
We can work together to give your loved one the best possible care.
Live the Moment… Love the Moment™
GRCC Celebrates The Opening Of Alford & Ashe Academy
GRCC members were happy to be invited to celebrate the Holiday Inn Express Hotel Opening of Alford & Ashe & Suites Fairgrounds Academy. The crowd was treated to snacks, cake and tours of the delightful classrooms. Attendees had fun while pretending to be child size once again and refresh themselves with toys and books from their childhood memories (or perhaps their children’s memories). Sarah Ashe, Director of Education, has worked in the field of education for 27 years and has worked in pre-schools as a manPhoto Courtesy of Mo Ogilvie, Mo2vated Photography ager for 20 of those years. At Alfred & Ashe Academy Alford & Ashe Academy, they believe that children are the body buffet and tours of the fresh new rooms of a puzzle, and they have all the pieces that are available at this location. to put them together. They focus on the The $1.2 million renovation project education of the children in their care. provided updates from the roof top to the parking lot within this 15-year-old hotel. In The Academy is located at 7739 Gibsonton Dr. just east of Gibsonton total, 76 rooms were reinvented with new Elementary School, about 1 ½ miles bedding, furniture, appliances and fixwest of I-75. To schedule an appointtures. This particular location does allow ment to tour the facility, please call 443pets and provides complimentary full 9136. Visit www.alfordandasheacadebreakfasts to its guests. There is also a my.com. convenient business center, conference Photo Courtesy of Huth & Booth Photography
Daily Eco Tours • Sunset Cruises Weekend Lunch & Dinner Cruises Dolphin and Manatee Tours Private Charters • Weddings • Birthdays
• Onboard Restroom • Sound System • Restaurant Seating
• Open Deck in Front • Boarding Ramp • Cushioned/Covered Seating
We can accommodate special needs, give us a call!
580 Bahia Beach Blvd, Slip F-10, Ruskin, FL Located in The Village Marina at Little Harbor, just behind Harborside Suites at Slip F10 Capt. Dave Lopez | latitudestours.com | 813-641-1311
A tip from our experts:
Hydration, hydration, hydration. Someone with dementia will
drink up to 87% more by simply switching to a red cup.
Assisted Living Facility #9739
December 2018
Page 17
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
t, r e c n o C s a m t s i r h a l C a G g n i Fundrais ore… &M
music in a wonderful atmosphere of warmth and joy. This event is in aid of a desire to expand reach in the communi, ti n a s le helle Co ic ty and help fund M y b d m Compile preyobserver.co outreach pros o @ michelle grams for 2019. The focus will be targeting at risk communities in areas of education, social welfare and reaching them with the gospel of Sights And Sounds Of Christmas Jesus Christ. The Transformation At United Methodist Church In Center is an organization dedicated Sun City Center to building the lives of people within Kick off this holiday season with the community by creating a supportthe fourth annual Sights and Sounds ive environment that fosters positive of Christmas. It will take place on change. Wednesday, December 19 at United Over the years TTC has engaged Methodist Church, located at 1210 in numerous activities such as school Del Webb Blvd. W. in Sun City
Center. This exciting evening of music and drama is created by each of the talented and multi-generational ministries. There will be identical shows at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Free tickets will be available at the church starting Sunday, December 1 during office hours from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Multigenerational ministries will provide the entertainment For more information, at the fourth annual Sights and Sounds of Christmas at the please call the church Sun City Center UMC. office at 634-2539. supply drives, clothing drives, toy drives, feeding programs, health fairs TTC Life Fundraising Gala and more. It currently supports an On Saturday, December 22 at 6 orphanage of 65 children in Kisii, p.m., join The Transformation Center Kenya and has partnered with local (TTC) for a Life Fundraising Gala and enjoy sumptuous dishes and live organizations such as MCM Food
A C OUNTRY C AT H OUSE Best Little Cat House in Riverview, FL
us Kitty Cla as Eve tm is r Ch will visit gift for with a guests. all of our
04018449
• Large, Custom Cat Condos Make Your • Villas & T.V. Suites HOLIDAY RESERVATIONS • 3-Level Townhouses NOW! • Private Aquarium Views
Pantry, A Kid’s Place, Soul Health Ministry, Trinity Café Soup Kitchen and Care Community Center and more. The Gala will take place at Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Center, 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. To purchase tickets, visit http://www.ttclife.org/ttc-life-gala/. Call 954-591-6848 for more information.
Saint Anne Outreach Projects
November was a very busy month at Saint Anne Catholic Church in Ruskin. In addition to the many liturgies and volunteer activities that routinely take place within the parish, the congregation made a concerted effort to follow the ‘Courageously Living the Gospel’ Campaign currently being sponsored by the Saint Petersburg Diocese. To that end, volunteers have given much time and effort to reach out to others in need. Two major projects that took many hours of planning and numerous volunteers were the Free Dental Clinic and the Food for Burkina Faso Project. On Saturday, November 10, the Saint Anne Conference of the Saint Vincent De Paul Society organized a ‘Mission Smiles’ program to provide
the underserved in the Southshore community with free dental care. Marissa Casado from Saint Vincent De Paul was most instrumental in helping to organize the clinic. The professional team of Dr. Edgar Divila, Dr. Chi Nguyen, Dr. Katy Barlow, Roxanna Albright, Mariel Rodriguez RDH, Althea Willis RDH, and Summer Yacoub provided a total of 34 services to 23 guests. These dental services included extractions, fillings and dental cleanings. This professional team was assisted by more than 20 additional volunteers who facilitated in supervising and coordinating activities, transportation, and dental screening. The total value of the services provided and fees waived exceeded $28,000. On Saturday, November 17, a second, much farther outreach activity took place. Approximately 200 Saint Anne volunteers gathered in two separate sessions to package 20,000 meals to be distributed to the poor of Burkina Faso, West Africa. These volunteers truly encountered the spiritual experience of working together to make the world a better place. The cost of the meals, along with a contribution to help the people of Burkina Faso learn job skills and obtain clothing and health services, was borne by the parish. Thus, all those who donated toward this activity truly helped to feed, clothe and improve the lives of their ‘brothers and sisters’ more than 5,000 miles away. Saint Anne Catholic Church is located at U.S. Hwy. 41 and 11th Ave. N.E. in Ruskin. Visit SaintAnneRuskin.org.
DAMON C. GLISSON, ATTORNEY-AT-LAW Probate and Estate Planning • Home Visits • Wills • Medicaid Planning • Divorce • Personal Injury • Wrongful Death 5908 FORTUNE PLACE APOLLO BEACH, FL 33572 www.Glisson1.com
• Huge Windows Overlooking Tropical Gardens with Fountains & Koi Fish Ponds (for lizard & bird watching)
(813) 645-6796
654-2287 • 654-CATS
The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisement. Before you decide, ask us to send you FREE written information about our qualifications and experience.
15501 BOYETTE RD. • RIVERVIEW In Business 25 Years! Newly Renovated!
www.ACountryCatHouseTampa.com
Let it Snow....Let it Snow....Let it Snow!
Somewhere Else!
Warmest Holiday Wishes
from Lynne & Leslie and The Board of Directors from
(813) 634-5111 • info@sccchamber.com 1651 Sun City Center Plaza
Celebrating 10 Years Celebrating of creating
Beautiful Sm Beautiful Smiles iles in
Your Your Neighborhood Neighborhood 13051 Summerfield Square Dr., Riverview, FL 33578
813-672-4900 www.GCDentalArts.com
Lori
Flip Flop 941-587-7003
Order Now for the Holidays! We Ship Nationwide!
flipflopcleaners@gmail.com Licensed and Insured
CLEANERS
Residential • Commercial New Construction Move In/Out • Realtors • Trash Outs
$
99
New Customer Special for up to 4 hours of Cleaning! Expires: January 31, 2019
Chris Kirkland
Certified Risk Management Consultant • Veteran USAF 32 years
“Your Home Town Title Company”
All American Title donates to a local military charity with every transaction we close! Brandon Office 813-684-3330 679 W Lumsden Rd, Brandon
Ruskin Office 813-649-9740 609 18th Street SE, Ruskin
IDENTITY THEFT IS NO JOKE
#1 Crime for Over 16 years according to FTC • Over 40,000 victims each day! Don’t let you, your family or business be one of them!
5M$ SERVICE GUARANTEE • 100% FULL RESTORATION
“All American” Product and Service!
GET THE PLAN PREFERRED BY THE PROS AFFORDABLE Plans for Individuals, Families and Businesses REAL LICENSED INVESTIGATORS
813-409-5566 • WWW.ID-PROS.NET
Need Help with Medicare or Obamacare Enrollment? Check out Faith Based Health Sharing Plans and put YOUR MONEY back in YOUR WALLET! ? Credit s? No Tax mium e r P l omica 000 00, $1 Astron 5 $ , 0 30 H! MONT S a ve $ H C A E re ! or mo ut How O d n i F
Mark McDade
Life and Health Insurance Agent
Call me for HELP! 813-310-0403
mmcdade@tampabayfinancial.com DENTAL/VISION PLANS UNDER $10 www.TampaBayFinancial.com
Never Buy Salt Again!
“We washed the USF Sun Dome, so if we did the Dome, we can do your Home!”
FREE Check Up of Your Softener!
American Water
Serving The Tampa Bay Area Since 1999
Thomas Ross
813-748-1042
Get Back Into That
FREE ESTIMATES
#1 Skincare in the U.S. We Guarantee Results.
Lose up to 24 pounds in 6 Weeks!
for Good! Finish 2018 Strong and Start 2019 Even Stronger! Pearl Chiarenza Naturopathic Health Coach Certified Life Coach
813-324-8988 • 522 Oakfield Dr., Brandon
www.bodyworkshwc.com Bodyworks Health and Wellness is an Independent UnFranchise Owner of Market America, Inc.
"I love my stubby lashes" - said no one ever. Have your own longer, fuller and darker looking lashes in 8 weeks! Works on brows too. Preferred Customers save 10% and get Free Shipping
Jennifer King (813) 210-7730 jking1017@hotmail.com Products: www.jenniferking.myrandf.com Business Opportunity: www.jenniferking.myrandf.biz Contact me today! Specializing in
Lowest Prices Around!
Premium Digital Technology
ION MENT D THIS A
Get more bang for your buck and make your Sweetheart’s holiday Sweeter!
45+ Years Combined Experience
813-642-8200
1647 SCC Plaza Building Suite 203A Sun City Center, FL
Book a Valentines vacation Now and give this SWEET gift they won’t return! Even Sweeter, we will create a special something to open to reveal your SWEET gift!
Hours: Monday thru Thursday 9:30 to 3:30 Fridays by appointment.
Valid: December 2018
FREE
We make your travel planning...Simple! www.SimplyTravelPlanning.com Toll Free: (888) 203-0273
Michele Wirth 813-230-1158
Hearing Evaluation Don and Chris Guiley
Kitty Cunningham 813-394-0301
INSURANCE & FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICES
COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL PLANNING • RETIREMENT PLANNING ESTATE PLANNING • LONG-TERM CARE • LIFE INSURANCE MEDICARE COVERAGE • COLLEGE PLANNING "We are here for you and for all your financial planning and insurance needs."
www.aplushearingsuncity.com
Providing legal services to individuals and families coping with aging and death. PROBATE • GUARDIANSHIP • ESTATE PLANNING • ELDER LAW LITIGATION Call (813) 296-1296 to Request an Appointment
813-627-0872
912 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, FL 33511
Michael Beiter, Sr.
www.preservation1st.com
137 South Pebble Beach Boulevard Ste #202-C Sun City Center, FL 33573 Christian Beiter, CFP®
Securities offered through J.W. Cole Financial, Inc. (JWC), Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through J.W. Cole Advisors, Inc. (JWCA). Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC. and JWC & JWCA are unaffiliated entities.
KYLE BELZ, ESQ. Elder Law Attorney
Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Mon – Thurs Friday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
www.belzlegal.com
Computer Problems? We Can Come to You! Residential or Commercial
• Lower Golf Scores • Stop Smoking • Improve Sales Success • Comedy Stage Shows Daniel Cyral, Hypnotist
248.941.4246 HypnoticEngagements.com
"Change by engaging your mind."
(813) 689-5028 KitsComputers.com
941-716-3828
• New Systems • Repairs / Upgrades • Virus Removal • Network Support • Remote Access • Maintenance Contracts
Laptops for Christmas! Microsoft 2016 and Avast Included! $199 Savings
"Helping You Look Your Very Best"
PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY • INDIVIDUAL • FAMILY • BUSINESS We can come to your location with our portable backdrops and lighting if needed!
Services provided:
Managed Accounts: Individual - Joint - Custodial IRAs; Roth - Traditional - College - SEP 401(k) & 403(b) Rollovers - Transfers Proudly serving the Tampa Bay area and beyond for 30 years. 813-641-7575 • 800-510-0329 • www.pearsoncapitalinc.com
December 2018
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 21
Summer Adventure ‘Workamping’ In Yellowstone National Park
By Bill McKay
Four years ago I retired after a successful career of 38 years. Two years ago my wife Paulette and I traveled to Vermont and Maine in our new RV to escape the heat of summer and to explore our national parks. While there, we found many people in our campgrounds were there for the same reasons as us. We discovered many were ‘Workamping’ working full and parttime in campgrounds or in nearby Grand Prismatic Spring. national parks and tourist destinations. This ‘senior workforce’, as we later discovered, is a vital resource to many businesses and organizations that are operated seasonably during the summer months. We found this to be interesting but didn’t give it a second thought; after all we were enjoying retirement. In January we attended the Tampa RV show and found companies representing organizations lookBison Herd in Lamar Valley ing for summer help. One of the comand made stops in Nashville and St. panies, Delaware North Corporation, Louis before heading further north and manages 12 retail stores in Yellowstone west. We saw the Corn Palace, Wall National Park as well as other parks, Drugs and Badlands, Crazy Horse and sports facilities (Amalie Arena) and nearMt. Rushmore monuments and Devils by Kennedy Space Center retail and food Tower before we arrived in Yellowstone. concessions. We arrived at the park in early June. We pursued looking at working in Our first purchase was a window scraper Yellowstone for the summer. We comfor the frost on the car windows and pleted applications, had lengthy teleheavier clothes for the cooler weather. phone interviews and both my wife and I The weather the first week dipped to 24 were excited to be offered positions at degrees at night. During the remainder of Lake General Store located on the shores the summer the average nightly lows of Yellowstone Lake. were in the 30’s and daytime highs in the Our adventure began in May, driving 60’s, with occasional days in the 70’s. to Yellowstone in our RV, our home for Our three month contract began in June the next four months. We took our time
students from the US, Bulgaria, Russia, Romania, the Philippines and Taiwan. This blended family worked well together and many friendships developed. The older staff introduced the students to American culture, traditions and holidays like Halloween and the Fourth of July. We even celebrated Christmas at the end of August following a long standing tradition and folklore in the park. As the summer was closing so was our time in Yellowstone. We said our sad Paulette and I at the front of Lake General Store. goodbyes the day after Labor Day, exchanged addresses, made friends on Facebook and started our journey home. The store remained open for about two more weeks after we left with a short staff and was closed for the season the third week of September. Another season in Yellowstone was completed. If you are looking for an adventure next summer you may wish to consider working in one of our 59 national parks. At our location dorm housing and RV Lower Falls, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone at sites for those traveling in recreational Artist Point. vehicles was available. The nearest groright after Memorial Day and for the next cery store was 52 miles away so meal three months we lived and worked in par- plans were offered for staff providing adise. three meals a day seven days per week. The store we worked in is picturDue to the 7,800 foot altitude, it is recomesque, in a building built in 1919 next to mended to check with your physician as the historic Lake Hotel. We were surthe oxygen concentration is 5.5% less rounded by mountains and not far from than the Tampa area and altitude sickgeysers, rivers, rapids, waterfalls, scenic ness affects many. vistas, valleys and abundant wildlife. The experience, the memories and Aside from the scenic beauty of the park, the friendships made this the experience the experience working with the staff was of a lifetime. If you are an adventurist heartwarming. The staff comprised of looking to do something different next seniors and college students from all over summer and can work several days per the world, including many senior couples week this may provide your opportunity of and singles on an adventure like us and a lifetime.
Page 22
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Civil War Veterans Honored With New Memorial
By Kate Quesada
Veterans killed in action during the Civil War and Florida naval casualties from 1861 to 1865 are inscribed on the monuments. The monuments are part of the Hillsborough County Veterans Memorial Park and Museum which was established to provide a centralized location for residents to honor veterans of all eras. Additional war Hillsborough County dedicated a memorial at the Veterans Memorial Park in Tampa last month to those who fought in the Civil War.
A new group of the nation’s finest are now represented at Hillsborough County’s Veterans Memorial Park and Museum. Last month, Hillsborough County dedicated a memorial to veterans killed during the Civil War. According to Hillsborough County Media Representative Todd Pratt, soldiers on both sides of the war are historically represented and honored at the memorial. “The two gray granite monuments that make up the memorial represent the west and east sides of the Hillsborough River; the blue marble strip between the monuments represents the river,” said Pratt. Each monument displays historical images related to Hillsborough County’s connection to the Civil War, including the gunships, the Cow Cavalry, the Battle of Fort Brooke and the Battle of Tampa. The names of Hillsborough County
memorials at the park include Iraq, Afghanistan, Korea, Vietnam, World Wars I and II and the Spanish American War. There is additional space at the park for more memorials and a new museum building. A Veterans Resource Center is also located on the grounds offering services for veterans. Volunteers are always welcome and anyone interested should contact the Center at 744-5502. Veterans Memorial Park and Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum is located at 3602 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Tampa. For more information, please visit www.veteransparkhc.com.
Saint Anne Catholic Church 2018 Advent & Christmas Schedule
ADVENT MASS SCHEDULE
THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
Monday Friday Masses 8:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m. Wednesday Mass 7:00 p.m. (6:45 Novena) Thursday Spanish Mass 7:00 p.m. Saturday Masses 8:00 a.m. 4:30 p.m. Vigil Mass Sunday Masses 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. (Spanish) & 5 p.m.
Sunday, December 16 Posadas Begin. Friday, December 21 Simbang Gabi (Filipino Advent) 7:00 p.m. Mass & Reception
Thursdays at 6:15 p.m. Saturdays at 3:15 p.m.
Monday, December 24 3:30 p.m. Children’s Choirs 4:00 p.m. Family Mass 6:00 p.m. Choral Singing 6:30 p.m. Mass 9:00 p.m. Spanish Mass & Posada Procession
ADVENT CONFESSION SCHEDULE
FIRST WEEK OF ADVENT
Wednesday, December 5 8:00 a.m. Healing Mass 7:00 p.m. Penance Service Feast of Immaculate Conception Friday, December 7 7:00 p.m. Vigil Mass Saturday, December 8 8:00 a.m. & 10:00 a.m. Masses
SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT
Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Wednesday, December 12 5:00 a.m. Rosary and Dancers 6:00 a.m. & 8:00 a.m. Masses 6:30 p.m. Novena 7:00 p.m. Bilingual Mass
FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT
Monday, December 24 8:00 a.m. Mass 9:00 - 12:00 p.m. Reconciliation The time of preparation ends as we welcome the newborn King.
MASSES for the CELEBRATION of CHRISTMAS
MIDNIGHT MASS 12:00 a.m.
CHRISTMAS DAY 8:00 a.m. • 10:00 a.m. • 12:00 p.m.
Hwy. 41 • 106 11th Ave NE • Ruskin SaintAnneRuskin.org • 8136451714
Volume 16, Issue 12
Neighbors Gather To Fill 100 Baskets For Families For Thanksgiving
By Michelle Caceres
cane cleanup, The weekBingham said end before she reached Thanksgiving, out to memFishHawk resibers of the dent Molly community and Bingham was overloaded her whelmed by Publix shopping their support. cart with Kelly turkeys. The and Rowjohn frozen birds Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterof Friends were not for day Saints and community members came together to compile and deliver more than 100 FishHawk her family’s holThanksgiving baskets for local families in need. donated 25 iday table but complete baskets. The residents of for The Church of Jesus Christ of Heron Park villas came together and on Latter-day Saints’ Thanksgiving Basket a moment’s notice donated food. project, now in its 10th year. Bingham said her neighbors were stopLaundry baskets are filled with ping by to make monetary contribufrozen turkeys, sweet potatoes, corn, tions. green beans, pumpkin, marshmallows, “Women were just showing up to stuffing and more then delivered to help because they saw it on Facebook,” families in the area that need a little said Bingham. “The community really assistance this holiday season. came together and supported this projBingham, who was the project ect.” coordinator, identified those families Newsome senior Spencer Caceres through school guidance counselors, who contacted the families and asked if said delivering the baskets was his they would be willing to accept the bas- favorite part. He and his family delivered five baskets to families in Plant kets. City. At one home, he gave the basket This year, more than 100 families to a grateful father, who then went to throughout Hillsborough County his truck and gave him a Twist-Up received baskets. soda. Donated food was brought to the Bingham said when she and her church building on Bell Shoals Rd. family delivered one basket to a family, where volunteers compiled the baskets the children stood on the steps of the and delivered them to the homes of trailer and wished her family a happy those receiving them. Thanksgiving. With church members tasked with “Come out next year and join us,” travelling to Panama City every weeksaid Bingham. end in November to assist with hurri-
December 2018
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 23
Page 24
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach
December 2018
Volume 16, Issue 12
Ph: 657-2418
See Our Favorite Things Holiday Giveaway Section Pages 45-51
Advanced Dental Care Riverview Is Welcomed
GRCC members welcomed Advanced Dental Care to Riverview. A large group of members along with staff, friends and family of Dr. Thuy Nguyen and Dr. Michael Apollo Beach Shopping Center recently underwent A ribbon cutting was recently held to welcome Advanced remodeling. A ribbon cutting was recently held to Derakshan showed Dental Care to its new location in Riverview. celebrate the improvements. up for the ribbon cutChamber ribbon cutting and Festival. brought in a total of $33,765. With over ting ceremony and celebration. Two bouncy houses, cotton candy, face $24,000 collected by Bill Andrew, The Advanced Dental Care family painting, balloon twisting, raffles and Superior Residences of Brandon Memory was founded in Sarasota in 1991 and this drawings were held. Care, he was pronounced the winner. Riverview location is its 22nd office. The Tampa Bay Martial Arts Academy, Pearl Chiarenza, Bodyworks Health & practices offer full-service dentistry with Carolyn’s Cut & Salon, West Shore Wellness Center and Kerin Clarkin, Keller compassionate care. Advanced Dental Pizza, Apollo Family Restaurant, Apollo Williams - Kerin Realty were also happy Care accepts most insurance plans and Beach Bait and Tackle, Apollo Beach to have raised some much-needed funds offers flexible financing options. Most Massage, Created Image Barbershop for their charities as well. offices have extended or weekend hours and the other merchants have been lookChiarenza donated monies available for patients' convenience. ing forward to upgrades for many years. to FishHawk-Riverview Advanced Dental Care Riverview is The parking lot has been repaved. Come Rotary Club and The Sylvia located at 13018 S US Hwy. 301 near check out the changes. New shops will Thomas Center for Adoptive Texas Roadhouse. It is open Monday– be coming soon too. & Foster Families, Inc. while Thursday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 280Clarkin donated his funds to 0121. Visit www.Riverview-Dentist.com. Bill Andrew New Honorary Mayor Of Riverview Woman's Club. Riverview They will each be Honorary Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Apollo The 2018 Honorary Mayor of Deputy Mayors for 2019. Andrew will Beach Shopping Center Remodeling Riverview Dr. Bryan Thatcher, Thatcher serve one year on the GRCC Board of The original Apollo Beach Shopping Properties, came to the podium to introDirectors and as a team they will all help Center at the corner of Flamingo Rd and duce the winner of the 2019 Honorary to deliver Proclamations at GRCC ribbon U S Hwy 41 N was happy to celebrate Mayor of Riverview race. Much praise cuttings and present the Pledge of the remodeling that is taking place in the was given to the three candidates who Allegiance at the monthly luncheons. shopping center with a Southshore
Bill Andrew of Superior Residences (l) was pronounced Honorary Mayor of Riverview. He collected over $24,000 for his charities in his bid to win the race.
David Garcia, Legislative Aid to District 4 BOCC Stacy White, was on hand to deliver a Hillsborough County Commendation to Bill Andrew for his hard work and dedication throughout the race.
Hypnotic Engagements And Entertainment
Hypnosis is a relaxed state of body and mind, where your conscious and subconscious work together. An expert in hypnosis, Daniel Cyral utilizes his skill sets to help golfers improve their game and help rid smokers of the habit. He also offers a Comedy Stage Hypnosis Show. Cyral has traveled the country doing shows, training and seminars. Not only is
Continued on next page
Page 26
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Business Column Continued................... he skilled with hypnosis, he is known as an exceptional speaker and MC. He was a Regional Director with The Murder Mystery Company, and he trained one-on-one and performed with The World Famous hypnotist, Richard Barker. Call 248-941-4246 or visit www.HypnoticEngagements.com for more information.
New Location In Sun City Center Now Open For Brandon Eye Associates
By Michelle Colesanti
as pest control. Enjoy stress free living as all the details are taken care of. Come to check out the apartments Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 12 Noon-5 p.m. Call 544-5652 or email info@lolaapartments.com for more information. Visit www.lolaapartments.com.
In Home Care & Assistance Offered By Hanson Services New Brandon Eye Associates location opened in Sun City.
at 779 Cortaro Dr. Other locations include: 540 Medical Oaks Ave., #103 in Brandon and 105 Southern Oaks Dr. in Plant City. Hours are Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, call 213-0020 or visit www.brandoneyeassociates.com.
Brandon Eye Associates provides comprehensive medical and surgical eye care since 1997. Dr. Lawrence C. Taylor, Jr. and Dr. Haroon Illyas partnership has grown to include seven MDs, one OD and has now grown to three locations, recently opening in Sun City Sudsy Paws Mobile Dog Center. Grooming The doctors of Sudsy Paws offers Brandon Eye mobile dog grooming servAssociates are all ices. Owner Toni Scott travboard certified and els directly to your home, dedicated to continuing apartment; condo or place education so they can of business to provide you offer their patients the the freedom to do whatever most advanced treatyou have scheduled. This ment for their eyes convenience puts you at including laser cataract surgery with advanced Owner Toni Scott will travel to ease knowing that your dog you to provide dog grooming is being well attended to with technology lenses services. love and care right outside which offers patients your window. the best visual outcome after surgery, Services include bath, brush, ears often not needing glasses for many tasks. cleaned, sanitary areas cleaned and The doctors perform state-of-the-art trimmed, nails and pads cut and trimmed, Micro Incision Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) teeth brushed, as well as de-matting and which can be performed either with or de-shedding. without cataract surgery. This microThe van salon offers hot and cold surgery helps control the high eye preswater via a hydromassage system and sure that is associated with glaucoma. both heat and air conditioning services to The retina doctor is at the forefront of assure the comfort of your dog. retinal medicine treating conditions such Scott treats your pets as if they were as diabetic retinopathy and macular her own. She is available Monday to degeneration. With the treatment providFriday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. To schedule an ed, patients are able to retain more vision appointment, call 610-420-9115. for a longer period of time. Visit The oculoplastic surgeon www.sudsypawsmobile.com. performs the latest MOHS Luxury LoLa Apartment procedure for Community Opens In patients with skin Riverview cancer to RMI Living is offering a new improve healing apartment community, LoLa, which are and have the best luxury apartment homes, located at 9960 outcomes possible. She also performs eyelid surgeries for patients suffering from Jonas Salk Dr. in Riverview. This four story apartment community has interior excess skin weighing down the eyelids corridors, elevators, 24 hour fitness, high along with other conditions. speed internet and cable included as well The Sun City Center office is located
When a loved one approaches later life, the last thing they want is to be surrounded by an unfamiliar environment. Being able to stay at home brings an unsurpassed level of comfort to this next stage of life. Hanson Services offers in home care and assistance so that they can stay in their own home and still receive the care they need. Hanson Services can also provide light housekeeping, laundry, transportation, errands and numerous activities of daily living taking some of the stress from family caregivers. Hanson Services, Inc. is currently in need of CNA’s. Please call MaryAnn Hanson at 6346617 for more information.
Tax Preparation Volunteers Sought
Local AARP Foundation coordinators are looking for volunteers to work in the annual Tax-Aide program. The program offers free tax preparation assistance to a wide range of taxpayers with a focus on clients over 50.
Volume 16, Issue 12
AARP volunteers receive free training and are IRS-certified each year. All volunteers are required to attend class and must pass a national tax test for certification. Tax training is done at the Bloomingdale Library during January. Tax help is offered completely free at the Seffner-Mango and Bloomingdale Libraries from February until April 15. To become a much needed volunteer in your community, log on to www.aarpfoundation.org/taxaid and fill out the application. For more information, email local coordinator Lee Neal at lee45neal@gmail.com.
Mo2vated Photography Can Take Care Of All Your Photography Needs
Mo2vated Photography is here for all of your photography needs, whether for portraits, head shots, family photos, weddings, pets or any other events. Photos can be taken at the beach, in the studio or at a designation location of your choice. Mo Ogilvie has a passion for helping people look their very best with professional lighting and posing. “We are most critical about ourselves and how we look to others. The reality is you look better than you think you do. I want to capture you and your family in pictures that tell your story, pictures that will save your history for years to come.” Hours are Monday to Saturday by appointment. For more information, call 941-716-3828, email Mo2vatedMedia@gmail.com or visit www.mo2vatedphotography.com.
December 2018
Page 27
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Top Producer 2002 - 2018
MORE THAN $115 MILLION SOLD SO FAR IN 2018 ! G EWIN N T S LI
PARADISE FOUND JUST A FEW HOUSES FROM THE BEACH! Perfect 3 bed, 2 bath home with $85k worth of interior & exterior remodeling in 2015-2018 on Anna Maria island! Hardwood floors, vaulted & beamed ceilings, oversized sliders & wrap around deck! Kitchen with new cabinets, granite & stainless appl.! $950,000
WATERFRONT LIVING WITH 35 FT BOAT LIFT! 4/4/3 + office + bonus + loft + pool/spa home in gated MiraBay! Recently upgraded & offering hardwood floors,new paint,soaring ceilings,crown & more! Kitchen with white cabinets & upgraded appliances! Resort-style outdoor living with fireplace & outdoor kitchen overlooking water! $785,000
! G EWIN N T S LI
BEAUTIFUL HOME IN 55+ GATED COMMUNITY OF VALENCIA LAKES! 3/2/2 home with all the bells & whistles! Exterior offers tile roof, pavered driveway & landscape curbing! Interior boasts 20" diagonal tile, 8 ft doors, tray ceilings & kitchen with 42" maple cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! Pavered lanai! $360,000
COVETED POOL HOME IN PARK CREEK! Fall in love with this 5/3.5/3 + bonus + pool DR Horton "Dancourt" home! Walk through the front door & you arrive at this showcase home! Neutral paint palette, detailed trim work, gourmet kitchen with white cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! Resort-like lanai with pool! $389,900 ! EW E N RIC P
WONDERFUL FAMILY HOME IN PANTHER TRACE! 4/2.5/2 home with adorable curb appeal & a delightful interior that offers wood-look tile floors, French doors, neutral paint choices, diagonal tile, tray ceilings & more! Spacious & private back yard that you will definitely enjoy! $240,000
SOUTH FORK IN RIVERVIEW! Stunning 4/2/3 Lennar "Corsica" model home that shows like a dream! Beautiful paint choices, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings & beautiful kitchen with staggered maple cabinets topped with crown, granite & stainless appliances! You also have a screened patio & fully fenced yard! $228,000
office: (813) 655-5333 | direct: (813) 924-8677 | Brenda@BrendaWade.com www.BrendaWade.com
Page 28
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
December 2018
Page 29
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Beth-El Farmworker Ministry Opens A Dental Clinic On Its Campus
TobyMac’s Popular Tour Coming to Amalie Staff Report
By Amanda Boston
On November 3, equipment. The denthe Beth-El tal clinic is a state-ofFarmworker Ministry the-art dental facility held a formal dedicaopen once a month tion and open house on a first-come-firstin honor of its brand serve basis for qualinew dental clinic. fied adults. Volunteer With its soft opening dental professionals in early October, the donate their time and clinic has already services on served 13 patients Saturdays. and performed 16 “The clinic is fully procedures. operational to do any Based in procedure and the Dan Branca and Teresa Posada only thing restricting Wimauma, the Beth-El Dr. Wilcher volunteered their time and Farmworker Ministry dental skills during the soft opening them is the funds,” of Beth-El’s brand-new dental clinic. explained Talaski, who assists farmworkers and their families is also a board memthrough hunger relief, ber of the Beth-El deneducation, health care tal clinic. “Right now, and spiritual growth. all our procedures are On a weekly basis, it basic extractions and serves nearly 600 fammainly just to get peoilies through its food pantry program. ple out of pain. The goal is to get more With farmworkers struggling to feed funds so we can get into preventive care mouths, most forgo dental health care. like cleanings and simple education.” The dental clinic is the first phase of Talaski also commented on the Beth-El’s overarching plan to establish a importance of good oral health, “Mayo comprehensive Health and Wellness Clinic has a quote that says, ‘Good oral Center located directly on its campus. healthcare extends one's life by ten By remodeling a portable building years.’ Everything starts with oral health, already on location and assistance from so we are trying to get education materigenerous volunteers, the construction al in Spanish to the community.” for the dental clinic was performed at For professionals who would like to cost. Eventually, the other portable build- volunteer or learn more, please contact ings will be repurposed to accommodate Beth-El at 633-1548. To find out more a medical clinic and a legal assistance about the ministry or donate, please visit center. http://beth-el.org. Beth El is located at Randy Talaski, a retired dental tech- 18240 U.S. Hwy. 301 S. in Wimauma. nician, installed the donated dental
CUSTOM CURTAINS e Com e W ou! To Y
20% OFF
Inna’s
CONNIE’S CUSTOM CURTAINS Draperies • Shutters • Blinds Top Treatments • Decor Rods • Installation Interior Decorating
COMPLETE HOME REMODELING
www.ConniesCustomCurtains.com
FREE ESTIMATES IN YOUR HOME Visit Our Showroom!
4864 Sun City Center Blvd. Sun City Center Office: (813)634-8272 Cell: (321)310-8355
(near Bloomingdale High School)
(813) 651-4416 AIRPORT/CRUISE SHUTTLE
ACCOUNTANT
Licensed and Insured #CBC1261574
PAINTING
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT
• Accounting & Bookkeeping
Airport Cruise Ships - Sea Port Charters Aailable Door-to-Door Tampa Bay Area
• Tax Return Preparation for Individuals, Corporations, LLC’s and Partnerships • Consulting for New Business Startups • Financial & Estate Planning
813-971-4067
gmeyer4@tampabay.rr.com Serving the Tampa Bay Area Since 1980
CALL OUR TRAINED EXPERTS 24 HOURS A DAY
813-915-4080
4306 NORTH 56 STREET • TAMPA, FL 33610
Susie’s 813-817-7721
FLWILDFlowers@gmailcom
$200 per month*
*INCLUDES ALL 5 EDITIONS PER MONTH
Call Cruce
Locally Owned and Operated.
(813) 915-5973 LANDSCAPING
ADVERTISE with OSPREY OBSERVER for
per ad
Bugs on the loose?
Woman Business Owner with 18 Years Experience
Come home to perfection
OR
Mjdfotfe!'!Jotvsfe
FREE ESTIMATES
813-731-9283
$50
813-892-6734
Cleaning Service
ADVERTISING
JUST
FREE ESTIMATES
Pest Control and Termite Protection
FALL SPECIAL 10% 0FF
Affordable/Reliable Best Customer Service
LE Y O B
• Houses • Pool Screens • Driveways • Sidewalks • Decks • Gutter Cleaning • & More
CLEANING SVC PEST CONTROL
Spruce Up for Spring...
GARY D. MEYER EXPRESS TRANSPORTATION • Compiled Financial Statement Presentations
YOUR TERMITE AND PEST SOLUTION FROM YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PROFESSIONAL
RESIDENTIAL . COMMERCIAL FREE ESTIMATES
1548 Bloomingdale Ave E. Valrico
https://www.facebook.com/conniescustom
10% OFF all work over $100
Kitchen, Bath, Flooring, Painting, Texture Ceiling and More!
Bloomingdale Professional Center
813-624-4547
SCREEN REPAIRS
Nancy’s Interiors & Remodeling
le Flex ibrs H ou
MOVING SALE! Moving to Suite 1514
(Kelle Oest)
PEST CONTROL PRESSURE WASH
COMPLETE HOME REMODELING
ALTERATIONS
With Mention of this Ad.
TobyMac’s 2019 Hits Deep Tour will make 37 stops nationwide including Tampa’s Amalie Arena on Sunday, February 24 at 7 p.m. Concertgoers will be treated to tracks from TobyMac’s The Elements, which was released on October 12. The album marks the first new collection of music from the chart-topping artist in three years. The Elements boasts TobyMac’s biggest song in six years, I just need U, along with the current radio favorite Everything. Also joining the tour are Christian music household names Jeremy Camp, Jordan Feliz, Ryan Stevenson, We Are Messengers and Aaron Cole.
Camp, a GRAMMY®-nominated singer and multiple GMA Dove Award winner, has had more than 30 No. 1 hits and is best known for his songs He Knows, Word of Life and Christ in Me. In 2016, Feliz won the GMA Dove ‘New Artist of the Year’ award. TobyMac, the seven-time GRAMMY® winner, is partnering with Food For The Hungry during the Hits Deep Tour. Food For The Hungry seeks to end all forms of human poverty by going into the hard to reach places and closely walking with the world’s most vulnerable people. Through community-owned transformation, it empowers children, families and communities to invest in their own development. Opportunities to help with this organization will be available during the concert. For more information about Food For The Hungry, visit www.FH.org. The 2018 Hits Deep Tour sold out 18 arenas including Sacramento, St. Louis, Phoenix, Denver, Grand Rapids, Minneapolis and San Antonio. It drew a crowd of 11,000 at Portland’s Moda Arena alone and was noted as the highest grossing Christian tour of 2018. Tickets are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. Prices range from $18 to $89.75 per ticket. To purchase tickets call 1-800-745-3000. Amalie Arena is located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. For more information about the concert, visit www.TobyMac.com.
(813) 657-2418 | www.OspreyObserver.com
AS LOW AS
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER
REPAIRS LANDSCAPE & PLANTS Warner’s Nursery 10706 Bloomingdale
813-689-5081 (cell) 813-817-682 6
(office)
Lic# RX0058177
Page 30
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Cabaret Series Coming To The Barn At Winthrop This December
By Michelle Colesanti
The Barn at Ferrer. Winthrop will Proceeds begin hosting a from the series of Cabaret evening's events. The first Cabaret event one, featuring will benefit Roberto Ferrer's Winthrop Arts, ‘The Music of Inc, a local nonYour Life,’ will be profit arts organiheld on Friday, zation located in December 21 at Riverview. The Barn at Winthrop will begin hosting a 7 p.m. Winthrop Arts Cabaret series this December. Tickets for provides art the Cabaret event are $45 per person classes to the community as well as a or $60 for VIP seating. Reservations summer art camp at the Art Factory are required. To make reservations and located at 11267 Winthrop Main St. in to purchase tickets, please call 684Riverview. In addition, Winthrop Arts 2276. hosts a yearly Arts Festival in March. Attendees will be treated to deliWinthrop Arts also runs an outreach cious appetizers, a delightful dinner program called the Winthrop Arts buffet and yummy desserts. A cash bar Mobile Art Factory. This program prowill be available. vides free art classes to underserved Roberto Ferrer is the last breed of children living in Wimauma. Cabaret style entertainers. He has perMatthew Hamilton, President of the formed in venues all over the world. "I Winthrop Arts Board of Visionaries will create an elegant atmosphere as I said, "We are grateful to the Barn at entertain the audience," said Ferrer. Winthrop for selecting Winthrop Arts as "As I sing the songs, I will give a brief the beneficiary of their new Cabaret history of the composer and explain series. We could not provide art servichow the song was composed," added es to the community without support Ferrer. from local businesses such as The Ferrer will perform standards from Barn at Winthrop." the 20's, 30's and 40's. Many of the A second Cabaret event will be songs he will perform will be familiar. held on Friday, February 8, 2019. "Many of the songs have been brought For more information, to make a back to life thanks to Paul McCartney reservation and to purchase tickets, who purchased the rights to the songs. please call The Barn at 684-2276. For Over the years, they have been sung more information on Winthrop Arts, by singers like Harry Connick, Jr. and please visit www.winthroparts.org. become hits once again," added
hftreeandlandscape@gmail.com
Over 15 Years of Experience! • Tree Removals • Tree Trimmings • Palms • Stump Grinding • Demolition / Land Clearing • All Landscape Needs
• Landscape Designs • Irrigation • Plant Installation • SOD Installation • Mulching • Rock
Licensed and Insured!
Call or Email today for your FREE Estimate!
Most Insurances Accepted
Estate Planning Wills & Trusts Powers of Attorney Guardianship Probate
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT SKIN CANCER
Dr. Robert Norman Dr. Charles Dewberry Holly Pohler, ARNP
• Computer Setup • Software Installation • Computer Repairs • Virus Scans & Removal • Malware Removal • Networking
$15 OFF
a chemical peel or first office visit Expires 10/15/18
Diagnosis & Treatment of Skin Cancer & Diseases of the Skin, Hair & Nails Radiation & Laser Treatment for Skin Conditions Treatments for Spider Veins & Rosacea Cryotherapy for Pre-Cancers Botox, Restylane, Juvederm & Other Fillers Dermatological Products Available In-Office: Clairsonic, Bleaching Cream, Image, Mederma, Retin-A, and More
$195 SHINGLES VACCINES (LESS if you have insurance!)
10422 U.S. Hwy 301, Riverview
Call Today! 813-880-7546
We’ll Beat Any Price! Experience with technical & desktop support, also network administration & engineering
Joseph LaViola RoLaV Computers, LLC 813-294-4047 www.RoLaVcomputers.com Reasonable Rates
User Friendly
We come to you!
December 2018
Page 31
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Life Story Writing Classes Help Preserve Stories For Future Generations
By Michelle Colesanti
I think it’s safe smaller schools of to say our Florida bull reds throughout ‘winter’ is showing the bay but expect face. Over the last them to thin out few weeks, we coming off the have been plagued November full with north winds moon. As we begin bringing colder to focus our efforts water temperatures deeper into the to Tampa Bay. estuary, juvenile fish There have been (18-25”) are showseveral days where ing up under resicatching live bait dential docks and Capt. Travis Yaeckel with a nice bull red has been a struggle oyster bars. The safely caught and released in Tampa Bay. but we have mannegative low tides aged to still keep a livewell full for our will congregate the fish into ponds and customers. From now until them break of deep-water pockets moving through winspring, my mornings will start with the ter. On the higher tides focus on deep treacherous bait run into the depths of the mangrove shorelines or rocky edges. As bay only to return to the wind-protected bait disappears from the shallows, backcountry haunts for fishing. Snook, Redfish will rely on their crustacean flavor Redfish and Trout are plentiful in these pallet to keep up the calorie count. areas and, depending on weather and Last but not least, the bigger Trout tide conditions, can provide some incredi- have finally started to show up. Just this ble fishing. While most anglers hang it up week we boated several fish over 20” and through the colder months, we fish yeartopped it off with a healthy 24” gator that round and follow the patterns of our resiwas safely released. Right now, the bigdent gamefish. ger trout are eating the bigger baits. A 5Out of the big three, Snook can be 6” live pilchard is the bait of choice and the most temperamental. As a subtropical my preferred method is free-line. species, they are extremely sensitive to Although these fish can be caught in sevthe colder water temperatures and in eral areas throughout our region, oyster some cases it can be life threatening for bars seem to be where I find the most. If them. Luckily, our major aggregations you are looking for numbers, focus on the have adapted to our estuary and find deeper bends in any of our major rivers reprieve in our rivers, residential canals, or the deep basins within residential mud bottom creeks, oyster bars and canals. power plants. Live bait will be the bait of Captain Travis Yaeckel is a native choice, but as we push through to the resident of the SouthShore area and new year, expect to have days where charters full time for Redfish, Snook, Trout, and Tarpon. He is owner and opershrimp will be the only option. For me, the ator of Instinct Fishing Co., based out of larger shrimp will produce more fish and I lower Tampa Bay. To book a charter, call like to free-line them in current or add a 830-FISH or visit www.fishbyinstinct.com. small split shot to keep them on the botCatch him on Tampa Fishing Outfitters tom on colder days or slack tides. Radio Show on Sunday mornings from 89 a.m. at 1040 a.m. Sports Talk the Redfish are still going strong in Team. Tampa Bay. We have been on some
There are A different theme is visited many reasons each week. Hands-on activities to put pen to and group interaction help participaper and pants to dig deeper into buried write down the memories. stories of your Individuals can improve selflife. You may esteem and increase self-confinot think that dence through class interaction. your stories The first LSW classes were are interesting held at Bloomingdale Library enough, but when it first opened in 2005. Val your family’s Perry was Bloomingdale future generain the first Regional Library tions will be class. The offers a 10-week Life appreciative. original Story Writing class You have will be held starting at instructor, the end of January the interest, Carol 2019. Val Perry has but how do Byrd, kept the program going since 2007. you begin? became ill The Bloomingdale Writer’s and the Connection (BWC) offers an Friends A group photo from the 2018 Saturday Life Story Writing class needed award-winning Life Story held at Bloomingdale Regional Writing/Memoir class beginning at volunteers Library. New classes begin the end the end of January at to carry on of January. Bloomingdale Regional Library. the proThis 10-week Life Story Writing (LSW) gram. Perry and Lynn Gardner (now class is free to participants and funded deceased) offered to continue the by the Friends of Bloomingdale classes beginning in the summer of Regional Library. The class is based 2007. off of Dr. James Birren’s Guided According to Perry, “I felt strongly Autobiography, a method used for that this class must continue. I had helping people document their life storecently retired from my volunteer ries. Classes are for young adults or work with the Girl Scouts at their retirees alike. Tampa headquarters which meant I Each class meets for about two had the time available. I love to write and a half hours each week and is and most of my previous writing had appropriate for all skill levels and all been life stories, although I did not ages. Whether you are brand new to know the term at the time.” writing or a professional writer, you will Upon graduation from the 10-week find a fit in this program. class, participants become members Three classes will run simultaneof the BWC, which came about when ously. One begins Wednesday, a group of writers from the original January 30, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. class decided to keep meeting. Another class begins Friday, February For more details, please pick up a 1, 1:30–4:30 p.m. and the third class brochure in the lobby of the library or starts Saturday, February 2 from 1:30email LifeWritersBloom@msn.com. 4:30 p.m. Participants are required to plan on Many people find the course to be attending all 10 classes. therapeutic because the classes invite To register, go to the ‘Ask Desk’ them to reflect on their lives and get inside the library or new perspectives. email LifeWritersBloom@msn.com.
$30
Make a difference this holiday season and donate.
813-645-7874 www.marymarthahouse.org
Air Conditioning & Heating
Up to $1700 in Rebates!
s Gift Certificate le Availab for Christmas!
TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:
Hours: Mon - Sat: 6 AM - 7 PM Sun: 6 AM- 6 PM
6040 US 41 N, Apollo Beach 9851 US 41 S, Gibsonton (813)296-7735 • Rods, Reels and Tackle • Frozen Bait • Live Shrimp (Small-Medium-Large-Jumbo) • Live Worms • Bait Reservations Accepted • Rod Repair • Apparel and Accessories
With Our Merchandise You Can Catch What You Want!!
CAC044863
aj westfall ...w
TUNE UP Retail Value: $96
Family Owned and Operated for 30 Years
rt the dai tors ilnean is Cool! terhem C e r
AC
Expires: January 30, 2019
Sunairtampa.com | 813-684-9919
Your donation is tax deductible. PO Box 1251 Ruskin Fl. 33575 • Office 1009 1st SW Ruskin FL 33570
Celebrating Celebrating 30 years in business!
Company
In Business Over 20 Years
Full Service Cleaning & Building Maintenance Company Residential Commercial
$25 off for first time customers
now hiring!
813.477.1196
www.ajwestfallco.com
licensed bonded insured
Page 32
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Feline Pets Can Spend Their Holidays In Luxury At A Country Cat House
By Elisa Santana
The holidays are es where the here and that means Daltons themselves you are busy cookdo the grooming. ing food, gathering The Daltons are also with your family and trained to administer getting your house basic medications decorated, for many such as eye drops people that also and ear drops. They means traveling. both went through So much the American Kennel preparation and Association-now the traveling mean American Kennel many people Club-training and are going to training in Colorado. need a safe There is one place to house thing the Daltons The units the cats stay in during their time their feline family feel sets them apart at A Country Cat House. members. That is where A Country Cat is that they call their business a luxury House comes in. hotel that just happens to be for cats. “[It started with] our love for our cats. Every cat is housed in a kennel with a We wanted a nice place for our cats to floor-to-ceiling window to view the outstay while we were on vacation and we side. They get individual playtime with the didn’t want someone coming into our employees and toys. For those cats that house for fifteen minutes and then run watch television, they have access to flat out the door a few times a week,” said screen televisions. There are aquariums co-owner Eileen Dalton. for the cats to look at and each unit is She and her husband, Scott Dalton, either one, two, or three levels. have owned the business for almost 27 And, since these are the holidays, years. Located in Riverview, this business the cats enjoy butterball turkey along with specializes in one thing-housing cats. their regular food-provided their diet The Daltons live on the same proper- allows them to eat turkey. And for ty where the cats are housed and the Christmas the real party begins. The cats business is also open 24 hours a day, get a special visit from Kitty Clause and seven days a week and holidays. they each get a special present of Doctor “We have 15 acres of land and every Daniel catnip mice. cat has a view from their kennels,” said A Country Cat House is located at Eileen. “I make sure everyone who works 15501 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Call 654for us knows they will work on Christmas 2287 or email acountrycathouse@veriand on Thanksgiving.” zon.net for more information. Visit The business offers grooming servic- http://acountrycathousetampa.com.
BRANDON PEST CONTROL, INC. Locally Owned & Operated
Celebrating 45 Years in Business! Locally Owned and Operated by a 21-Year Air Force Veteran
To celebrate our 45th year
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
your initial service is
Attend one of our seminars on Social Security.
ONLY $45!
Full retirement/social security analysis (no charge)
(New customers with a 1 year service agreement. Excluding termites & bedbugs.)
Never pay a consult fee to talk to us.
We stay up to date on all tax laws. We are a fully licensed fiduciary firm.
LIFE INSURANCE • INVESTMENTS • MANAGED MONEY
(813)626-7575 11938 Balm Riverview Road • Riverview, FL 33569 Business Hours: Mon - Fri 9am-5pm
www.angelonitax.com
$89
a quarter up to 2,500 sf.
Call Today! Ask for Michael Nunn Open Mon. thru Sat.
813-685-7711 (office) | 813-494-1699 (mobile) 108 S. St. Cloud Ave. Valrico 33594
December 2018
Page 33
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Certified Master Cleaners At Accent American Perfect For Any Job When your home’s carpeting and interior is damaged, there’s an easy way to determine who to hire to remedy it: check the credentials. Lisa Jordan, co-owner of Accent American Cleaning & Disaster Restoration, has the long list of the company’s credentials on the back of her business card. She said her husband, co-owner Ken Jordan, is the man for any job. “If he can’t get it clean, then it’s not getting clean,” Lisa said. In 1985, Ken was in search for work. He went on a ride along with a carpet cleaning service after seeing a help wanted ad, but realized something wasn’t right: the business would estimate a cheap price for a job and then jack up the price upon arrival. Frustrated and wanting to be his own boss, Ken bought used equipment and started his own business. Years later, after meeting a master cleaner from Pinellas County, Ken became a master cleaner and restorer, earning the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Ken won an international spot and stain removal contest five times, and is often called on by area law firms to be an expert witness on cleaning and restoration in court.
By Eric Heubusch
Lisa and Ken Jordan, Accent American Cleaning & Disaster Restoration.
Lisa explained that while other masters of the craft are now soley instructors, Ken takes his thousands of hours in the classroom and field to each Accent American client. “He’s the one on the job,” Lisa said. “He’s the one supervising everything, his knowledge is there in the field; when you call us, and you’re the one getting all that knowledge in your home.” Accent American clients include professional work spaces, realty and doctor’s offices as well as residential spaces. Ken and Lisa are currently working on the kitchens at Tropicana Field, a client Lisa said they earned through referral. Service members, including military, police, firefighters and EMS, will always receive a 10% discount on any cleaning services. Accent American is also giving anyone who uses their cleaning services a 10% discount through Labor Day. Be sure to like the Accent American Facebook page for more specials.
Open to the Public
with a variety of memberships to suit anyone’s budget! Free initiation through December 31.
www.summerfieldgc.com
Friday Happy Hour 5pm-10pm
13050 Summerfield Blvd, Riverview 813.671.3311
#AL11670
The Bridges Should Be Your
#1 Choice! HERE’S WHY: The Bridges
Licensed Nurses
?
Certified Nursing Assistants and Med Techs
?
Manager on Duty 365 days/year
?
Stable, experienced staff
?
Clubhouse for resident events/parties
?
Solid block construction, 12 ft. ceilings, walk-in closets
?
Receptionist presence 13 hours daily with a sign-in/sign-out policy and secured entry & exit
?
Natural gas powered generator; non-evacuation zone
?
Exceptional Sunday brunch in Clubhouse; family & friends welcome
?
Personalized Wellness Program
?
Call for a tour today!
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Call today to schedule an appointment.
813-530-0903
631 W. Lumsden Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511
Other
813.413.8900
bridgesretirement.com
Page 34
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Sports 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Volume 16, Issue 12
Connection
By Nick Nahas and Photos courtesy of Matthew Hallock
Florida Batbusters Girls Fastpitch Have Dominant 2018 The Florida Batbusters ’05 — Riverview have been on a roll this season. The fastpitch softball team was first formed five years ago and is now comprised of girls from the Riverview, Bloomingdale and FishHawk areas. According to Head Coach Steven Bedenbaugh, the team finished their 12-year-old spring/summer season with a record of 74-26 and seven tournament championships. They also finished 13th out of 48 teams at the 12u USA Elite Select World Fastpitch Championships in Kansas City, and they have also moved up an age division. The 13-year-old players were all born in 2005, but now compete in a 14 and under division.
The Florida Batbusters’ team photo.
This fall season, they have gone 27-5-1, winning two tournament championships (USFA 14u “Boo at the Bay” tournament and the 14u USFA ‘Appreciates You’ tournement), as well as a second place finish at the 14U PGF ‘Pink out Challenge,’ which qualified them to play in the 14u PGF Eastern Nationals in July 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. They finished second in their
$200 OFF EXTERIOR PAINT with the mention of this ad
Professional Painting Specialists COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL INTERIOR EXTERIOR
Free Estimates • All Work Guaranteed “WE’RE NOT HAPPY...UNTIL YOU’RE HAPPY!”
813-291-0505
www.DonsPainting.com/save 20 + years in business Licensed, Bonded & Insured
Lic. #PA 2653
outscored their opponents 227-90. Players on the team include: Bricelyn Bedenbaugh, Zoe Carlisle, Madison Carney, Emma Chisholm, Tinley Dunn, Sophia Hallock, Peyton Haxton, Kaylee Matteis, Arianna Rodriguez, Abbey The team wins the 14u USFA Boo at the Bay Taylor-Bolt and Tournament. Alyssa Vallad. pool in the ProSwings Assistant coaches include Rob Power50 Invitational Showcase tourMatteis and Johnny Carlisle. nament in Altamonte Springs. They “The biggest thing I am proud of will also compete in the USSSA’s is competing with the best competi‘Salute our Veterans Tournament’ in tion out there with all local girls,” said Sarasota and finish the fall at the Bedenbaugh. “This allows them to Batbusters/Firecracker Space Coast build lifelong friendships.” Experience at USSSA headquarters You can follow the team on in Viera. Facebook by searching Florida The team batting average sits at Batbusters ’05 and on Instagram an astounding .336 and on-base per@flabatbusters05. centage of .436. They have
December 2018
Page 35
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
No Place Like The Florida Orchestra For The Holidays
By Kelly Smith
Sometimes when December 21): It is a friends and family movie and a concert all gather for the holidays, wrapped up into one you do not know holiday package. The whether to laugh or orchestra performs John cry. Live music with Williams’ charming The Florida Orchestra score live as the comecan bring peace on dy classic starring earth and good will to Macaulay Culkin plays all generations, on the big screen at whether it is through Ruth Eckerd Hall. traditional classical Featuring The Master music or a classic Chorale of Tampa Bay. comedy film concert. Daniel Black conducts. Both Aunt Sue and litKeep the holiday Home Alone in Concert is a tle Johnny will have a cheer alive with tickets movie and a concert all wrapped jolly good time. up into one holiday package. It to an upcoming concert. Mozart & Sibelius For example, Star Wars will be performed on Friday, December 21 at Ruth Eckerd Live in Concert: The (Friday to Sunday, Hall. December 7-9 with Empire Strikes Back Sunday matinee): Mozart’s beautiful on Saturday, January 26 features the Sinfonia Concertante will melt your full movie with live orchestra music at heart, with TFO’s Nancy Chang on Ruth Eckerd Hall. An Intimate violin and Derek Mosloff on viola. Evening with Seal on Saturday, Also: Sibelius’ Symphony No. 1. February 9 is an outstanding orchesStuart Malina conducts. Free tickets tra concert with the four-time Grammy for kids and teens in advance to this winner that you can feel good about: and all Tampa Bay Times Proceeds support The Florida Masterworks concerts. Orchestra’s community, education and Holiday Pops (Friday to Sunday, artistic initiatives. Gift certificates also December 14-16 with Two available. Matinees): Pure holiday magic you The Florida Orchestra performs can’t buy at the mall, featuring the vel- regularly at the Straz Center in vet voice of American Idol star Tampa, Mahaffey in St. Petersburg Michael Lynche and Unlimited Gospel and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Expressions choir. Trevor Pettiford of The orchestra offers affordably priced Bay News 9 narrates The Night tickets to a variety of concerts; prices Before Christmas. Jeff Tyzik conducts. vary. Visit FloridaOrchestra.org or call Home Alone In Concert (Friday, 727-892-3337 and 1-800-662-7286.
Did You
Know?
Most auto accident injuries don’t reveal themselves for days or even weeks after a collision.
“You’ve Never Been Treated So Well”
Studies show that collisions of 5 MPH produce an impact on the neck of 7 - 10 G’s causing whiplash and other injuries, yet there is no physical damage to the vehicle.
WE CAN P HEL
Se Habla Español
Dr. Kyle Bartlett, FAAD
Julie Bucciarelli, APRN
Now Accepting New P Now Patients atients 10141 Big Bend Road, Suite 201, Riverview, FL 33578
813-657-3330
www.phdermatology.com
Page 36
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
December 2018
Page 37
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Local Author Shares 100 Things To Do In Tampa Bay In New Book
By Taylor Wells
Solomon’s Castle in Ona in Hardee County.
Kristen Hare, the author of 100 Things to Do in Tampa Bay Before You Die, 2nd Edition. The cover of 100 Things to Do in Tampa You can now read local Bay Before You Die, 2nd Edition. author Kristen Hare’s 100 Things aged to give these 100 things to Do in Tampa Bay Before You Die, a try. 2nd Edition, which recently became Kristen had this to say available in October. The helpfully about writing her guidebook: varied and descriptive bucket list “When we first moved here in 2012, shares Kristen’s personal experimy family thought it would just be for ences of the most noteworthy attraca year, so we decided to live like tions she visited in Tampa Bay. tourists and see, try and go everyWhether you are new to the area or a where we could. We loved it here so longtime resident, you may find some much that we decided to look for jobs new and interesting places nearby to that would let us stay.” Writing this visit. book has allowed to her to explore The second edition features 30 even more places. new adventures in the list. This new The author has many personal edition of Kristen’s book was written favorites. She loves Medard Park in with locals in mind so tourists wouldPlant City for its convenient location n’t be the only ones having fun. and the fun kids have there. Then Everything inside is a good time for there is Leaven Brewing in Riverview, all, though, so everyone is encour-
Expires 1/31/19
a top brewery that is perfect for date nights. Next up is Brocante Market in St. Pete, a place filled with amazing vintage treasures that opens only on the first weekend of
each month. Those who seek the weirder side of Florida might want to visit Solomon’s Castle in Ona, an aluminum construction filled with art crafted from recycled objects. And there are so many more things to do. Have a delightful time getting the password to an exclusive 1920s-inspired speakeasy called Ciro’s. Explore the excitingly strange Dali Museum that celebrates the surreal Salvador Dali. Find countless different things at the massive Big Top Flea Market and its 1,200 booths. Visit the mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park for a beautiful show and fun times. There are hundreds of things to do, so go out and explore. “I think as long as I live here, future editions are possible, and I have no plans to leave!” said Kristen. “Next on my list is a road trip guide.” The book is published by Reedy Press and can be purchased at www.reedypress.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other places where books are sold.
Milk Tea Boba, Tea Leaves and Filipino Food To Go! 3840 US-301 S, RIVER 3840 RIVERVIEW VIEW ((813) 813) 420-0013 MON. - THUR. MON. THUR. 10 - 7 | FRI. FRI. - SAT. SAT. 10 - 8 | CLOSED CLOSED SUNDAY SUNDAY
WWW.TBDCAFE.COM WWW WWW.TBDCAFE.COM .TBDCAFE.COM Text TBD301 to 33733 Mention this ad for a FREE scoop of cookie dough!
Page 38
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Ms. Jessica Evans
ans Ms. Ev de a r G 10th High w ie v River ool Sch
Teacher Of The Month
cher? What inspired you to be a teaout of a necessity! I ing Originally, I started teach l on the verge of was a hospitality professiona and the work scheddivorce with two young kids, was a lot of night and ule in my chosen profession county was desperd By Sponsore weekend work. I read that thed that there was a m Mathnasiu ately looking for teachers, an er science that I was w ie rv e iv R f O course in family and consum hired at Riverview qualified to teach. Upon being p. It didn't take long High School, I taught Food Pre hen, taurant and commercial kitc to learn about its on-site respassion came to fruition! The very however, and then my true ching certificate while teaching next year, I received my tea t is open three days a week and is Culinary Arts. Our restauran open to the public. u? surprised to find out about yo What would your students befind out that I have They are always shocked to l attire is chef street clothes… as my schoohen clogs. whites, black pants, and kitc
Volume 16, Issue 12
Rajun’ Bulls Drum Line Helps Bass Pro Ring In The Christmas Holiday
Bloomingdale High School’s Rajun’ Bulls drum line helped ring in the holiday at Bass Pro Shops in November, along with Santa Claus and Sickles High School JAFROTC Color Guard. Santa then lit the Christmas tree in the store with the help of carolers from Bloomingdale High School chorus. Santa’s Wonderland will be open different times every day for free photos, crafts, carousel rides and games until December 24. See www.basspro.com/santa for details on dates and times.
Congratulations To The 2018-19 Hillsborough County School Board
Melissa Snively was elected to the Hillsborough County School Board (District 4) for her second term. Snively will serve her second term as vice chair. She is a graduate of the University of Florida with a B.A. in English, and a Minor in Secondary Education. She has owned and operated her own business in Lithia since 2001, where she employs eight professionals. Tamara Shamburger, Chair - District 5 Tamara was elected to the School Board, in District 5, in 2016. Tamara is a proud Tampa native. She is the product of Hillsborough County Public Schools and is a proud graduate of Bloomingdale Senior High School. Tamara has a Liberal Arts degree from Hillsborough Community College; Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
er? What are your goals as a teach help a I if I feel just as accomplished is NOT for child realize that the chef lifers their pasthem, as I do if one discove accision while taking my class "on ch child dent". My goal is to help ea whatever reach his or her potential… that may be. cafeteria? Ms. Evans has been What is your favorite lunch in the a teache for 13 y m the r ears. I have never had anything frofinite de school cafeteria! That is a kitchen in class!! benefit to having your own t you live by? Is there a quote or saying tha s country, we use the term very thi "I am not a Chef. I think in cher." loosely. I'm a cook and a tea – Julia Child
Superintendent Eakins and the newly elected HCPS Board Members.
from the University of South Florida; and a well-earned Master of Business Administration (MBA) from St. Leo University Other school board members are Steve Cona (District 1), Stacy Hahn (District 2), Cindy Stuart (District 3), Karen Perez (District 6) and Lynn L. Gray (District 7). For more information, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.
December 2018
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever To Be Presented By The Valrico Village Players
NOMINATIONS NEEDED!
By Kathy L. Collins
The Valrico Ever is a play about Village Players will a predictable perform The Best Christmas Pageant Christmas Pageant that goes awry. Six Ever this month. delinquent siblings, Opening night, with who were engaged the now famous in misfit behavior, Opening Night go to church on the Dinner Theatre, will promise of snacks. be held on Friday, They then land the December 7 at 7 roles in the pageant p.m. and tell the story of You will not want to miss the Valrico The Opening Village Players as they present The Christmas in a nonBest Christmas Pageant Ever Night Dinner traditional way. Theatre will feature “Barbara the delicious cuisine of La Septima. Robinson’s The Best Christmas You can enjoy its famous chicken Pageant Ever, based on her novel of and yellow rice, black beans, salad, the same name, is a widely beloved Cuban bread and dessert. The cost Christmas tale. It is warm and incredfor Opening Night Dinner Theatre is ibly funny tale that is full of charac$35 per person. As there is limited ters that are both utterly relatable seating, reservations must be made and utterly unique,” said Gail Pierce in advance. with the Valrico Village Players. “The Other shows will be held on large cast and age range make this Friday, December 14, Saturday, show a community favorite, in which December 8 and 15 and Sunday, a varied, multi-generational group of December 9 and 16. The Friday and performers can come together,” Saturday shows will begin at 8 p.m. added Pierce. The Sunday matinee will begin at 3 “This is a great family show and p.m. a great way to start off the Christmas General Admission tickets are holiday with family and friends. It $18 per person. For seniors over 65, would even make a great Christmas students and military with ID, the cost present,” said Pierce. is $15. Group of 10 or more can The Best Christmas Pageant reserve seating and tickets are just Ever will be performed at the historic $15 per person. For information, call James McCabe Theatre located at 643-8292 or the box office at 480506 5th St. in Valrico. For more infor3147. mation, please visit www.thevillageThe Best Christmas Pageant playersvalrico.com.
ONE FREE
Baklava
Page 39
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
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?
ONE FREE
FREE
10%
WITH THE PURCHASE OF ANY SANDWICH
with purchase of an entree
PURCHASE
ORDER OF FRENCH FRIES OR ONION RINGS
DOMESTIC BEER OR GLASS OF HOUSE WINE
OFF ENTIRE
- GASTRO GRILLE Little Greek Fresh Grill 813.570.8162 10173 Big Bend Rd., Riverview Expires 1/8/19
The Hot Tomato 10451 Gibsonton Dr, Riverview 2702 E College Ave, Ruskin Not valid with any other discounts, promotions or coupons. Expires 1/8/19
$5
OFF ANY PURCHASE
Salty Shamrock 6186 US Hwy 41 N, Apollo Beach 813-938-5282
Valid for dine in only. Tax & Tip not included. Not valid with any other offer. No cash value. Limit one coupon per person. Expires 1/8/19
FREE COOKIE
with purchase of $25 or more
DOUGH SCOOP
Pho Viet - Brandon 1202 W. Brandon Blvd. 813-643-8888
TBD @ 301 3840 US Hwy 301 S Riverview
1 redemption per table. Not good with any other coupons or offers. Expires 1/8/19
No Purchase Necessary Expires 1/8/19
Sunflower Cafe - Valrico 813-65-SUSHI
Only valid with regular menu. With this coupon. Must present before submitting payment. Before tax. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers.
Expires 1/8/19
ONE FREE *
CUPCAKE with every hot beverage purchase
Petite Madelyn’s - Valrico (813) 681-CAKE (2253)
* Limited to selection/variety available at time of purchase. May not be combined with any other discount. Expires 1/8/19
Page 40
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Ohall Recognized By Super Lawyer
By Michelle Caceres
Each year, cial needs parents Super Lawyers rechave to jump through ognizes the top when their child turns lawyers in Florida 18,” said Foyt. “Laurie through a patented was able to get all the multiphase selection paperwork completed process involving and was with us every peer nomination, step of the way.” independent Ohall has a big research and peer heart for families with evaluation. special needs children. Elder law attorHer firm has worked ney Laurie Ohall has with the 13th Judicial received Super Circuit to put guardian Lawyer designation advocacy forms online as a 2018 Top-Rated so that families who Elder Law Attorney Elder law attorney Laurie Ohall has cannot afford an attorbeen recognized as a 2018 Topin Brandon. This is ney can file on their Rated Elder Law Attorney in her fourth year earnown to become their Brandon. ing the distinction. child’s guardian advo“The fact that attorneys are nomicate. She has also hosted workshops nated by their peers is an honor,” said for families, free of charge, to walk Ohall. “It means a lot to know that they them through the process and help have recognized my qualifications, them fill out the forms. education and experience.” The law offices of Laurie Ohall, Ohall is one of only 106 board-cer- associated with R.F. Meyer & tified elder law attorneys in the state. Associates, LLC, is located at 1464 Requirements for this honor include: a Oakfield Drive. Ohall is a Florida board minimum of five years practicing law, a certified elder law attorney who condemonstration of substantial involvecentrates her area of practice in estate ment in the field of law where certificaplanning, elder law, probate and estate tion is sought as well as being showing administration, wills and trusts, good character, ethics and professionguardianship and Medicaid planning. alism. “Clients who hire me can be confiFishHawk resident Ann Foyt didn’t dent in knowing that I have the knowlneed anyone to tell her that attorney edge and experience to help them with Laurie Ohall is a super lawyer. Ohall their elder law concern,” said Ohall. assisted her in obtaining guardianship The law offices of Laurie Ohall is for her adult son, who has Down’s open Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 5p.m. Syndrome. For more information, visit “It’s an unfortunate hoop that spewww.ohalllaw.com or call 438-8503.
Navigation to Wealth Creation
BRANDON 329 Pauls Dr. Brandon, Fl. 33511 813-689-9297 PLANT CITY 1907 S. Alexander St. Plant City, Fl. 33566 813-752-6604 rcwcpas.com
Saint Anne Catholic Church ~Masses~
Vigil Sunday Monday-Friday Wednesday Jueves Healing Masses Holy Days Confession
Saturday 4:30 p.m. 8 a.m., 10 a.m., & 5 p.m. Español 12:30 p.m. 8 a.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.
8 a.m. First Wednesday of the month 5 p.m. First Sunday of the month Contact Parish Office for Schedule Thursday 6:15 p.m. Saturday 3:15 p.m.
Serving the South Shore area: Apollo Beach, Ruskin, Sun City & So. Gibsonton
Hwy. 41 • 106 11th Ave NE • Ruskin SaintAnneRuskin.org • 813-645-1714
Happy Holidays Here’s to a a season filled with warmth, comfort and good cheer! Should the new year bring you a change of address please contact us so that we can assist you.
The Tracy Team
PATRICIA TRACY Realtor
December 2018
Page 41
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Registration To Open For Skyway 10K Virtual Run Runners who missed the chance to register for the physical Skyway 10K Virtual Run can still take part in the action and earn a medal, commemorative race bib and special-edition race shirt by doing the virtual run. During the registration period, which will remain open until January 7, 2019 at 12 Midnight, visit www.Skyway10K.com. The Skyway 10K Virtual Run presented by Visit St. Pete Clearwater allows runners of all ages, athletic ability, and locations, who may have been unable to attend or register for the Skyway Run, to be able to participate in the event, which benefits the Armed Forces Families Foundation. Registration costs $45 and includes a commemorative bib, Virtual Run T-shirt and Virtual Run medal, all of which will be mailed to participating runners following completion of the race. Those participating in the Skyway 10K Virtual Run may run, jog, walk or even crawl the 6.2 miles from any location, on the road, on the trail, on the treadmill, at the gym or on the track (or even at another race). Once completed, entrants are asked to send an email to Virtual@Skyway10K.com with their full name and the date(s) and location(s) where they completed their 6.2 miles. The deadline to submit Virtual Run emails is March 1, 2019. “We have had such a tremendous
By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com
By James Judge
turnout of support and those wanting to participate that we decided to add an element to our race that will allow those unable to participate physically to participate virtually,” said Brian Horne, race director at Skyway 10K. “This race means more than just a run over one of the most iconic bridges in the country; it’s a chance to give back to military families and we want to make sure everyone who wants to help has a chance to do so.” The 2019 Skyway 10K, scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 3, is the largest fundraising event benefiting the Armed Forces Families Foundation. The inaugural 2018 Skyway 10K, which featured 7,000 runners from 40 states, three countries and all five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces crossing the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge, sold out in just five days and raised $560,000 with the entire proceeds going to Armed Forces Families Foundation. Anyone interested in volunteering for or sponsoring the second annual Skyway 10K can learn more by visiting www.Skyway10K.com or emailing info@skyway10k.com. All proceeds from the event will go to support the Armed Forces Families Foundation. Visit www.armedforcesfamilies.org
ALL-NEW LEXUS UX PURPOSEBUILT FOR THE URBAN BUYER In which city wireless phone would you launch a charger, and small crossover Amazon Alexa and designed for the Apple CarPlay intemodern urban gration. A mouse-like explorer? Seattle, of Remote Touch course, the vibrant enables the driver to city that offers an toggle navigation, cliarray of experiences mate, audio and from underground phone controls, grunge to Pike Place which are displayed Market to the on a 7-inch or the Amazon Spheres! optional 10.3-inch And that’s screen, next to the where we found ourfamiliar analog clock. selves after Lexus Passenger volume is for a preview of its at 90.4 and trunk all-new 2019 UX in space at 21.7 cubic the fastest-growing feet, which is OK for compact SUV sega compact SUV. Add ment. The urban$2,000 for each trim centric ride will be if you would like the available in two sporty F Sport trim, trims: the frontwhich includes a wheel-drive UX200 sport-tuned suspenwith a 2.0-liter 4sion, perforated cylinder engine putleather shifter and UX200 ting out 169 horseheated steering wheel, Tires: 225/50RF18 power @ 6600 rpm F Sport grille, Wheelbase: 103.9 inches and 151 pounds-feet front/rear bumpers, 8Length: 177 inches of torque @ 4800 inch display screen, Weight: 3,307 pounds rpm; or the all-wheeland more. Suspension: MacPherson strut drive UX250h Dual front and front, trailing arm multilink gas/electric hybrid with side airbags, side currear a 2.0-liter developing a tain airbag, front knee Steering:Electric Power total of 181 horsepowairbags, vehicle stabiliFuel capacity: 12.4 gallons er @ 6000 rpm. The ty and traction conCity: 29 mpg former is mated to a trols, three-point seatHighway: 37 mpg 10-speed direct-shift belts for all, front/rear Web site: www.lexus.com auto gear box and the crumple zones and latter gets a continuside-impact beams, ous variable transmission. The UX250h rearview camera, four-wheel antilock employs a four-cylinder gas engine, two brakes with electronic brake distribution electric motors and a 216-volt nickeland brake assist, daytime running lights metal hydride battery. At higher speeds, and a tire pressure monitoring system are power comes primarily from the gasoline standard. Also, the Lexus Safety Sense + engine. During deceleration and braking, 2.0 fetches you a pre-collision system that the vehicle uses regenerative braking to detects pedestrians, lane departure alert apply much of the wasted energy toward and lane tracing assist, dynamic cruise recharging the hybrid battery. control and intelligent high beams at no Standard bi-LED headlights and day- cost. time running lights flank a massive threeStarting at $32,000 for the UX200 dimensional mesh spindle grille to give and $34,000 for the UX250h, this Urban the UX a muscular stance. Attention to + X-over (crossover) is a purposeful vehidetail is apparent in the cabin with its cle with no compromises. Rivals such as three-spoke steering wheel, dual auto a/c, the BWW X1 and Audi Q3 now have 8-way power front seats, six speakers plenty of catching up to do with this and four USB ports, 60/40 rear fold seat, immensely pleasant and rewarding ride.
Hours: 6am - 10pm
South Brandon
2010 Bloomingdale Ave, Brandon
(813) 571-0569
Lake Brandon Village
www.chickfilabrandon.com
11325 Causeway Blvd, Brandon
(813) 655-1237
Page 42
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Two Distinct Art Exhibits Featured At The SouthShore Regional Library This Month
The Firehouse Pub at 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Gloria the Firehouse Cultural West is the vocalist, Paul Center in Ruskin will celeGarvin will be on drums, brate the holidays and ring James Suggs on trumpet, in 2019 with some great Glenn Stevenson on bass entertainment in December and Tony Castellanos on and January. The keys. Firehouse Pub is a great On Sunday, January local venue for residents to 13, bring the family to see experience some fantastic Theresa Villani: Fairy Tales entertainment. & Humorous Songs. The On Saturday, show will begin at 3 p.m. The Firehouse Pub at the December 15 Valerie Firehouse Cultural Center Theresa Villani is a cellist. Gillespie and her ensemble She collaborates with in Ruskin offers great, unique entertainment for pianist, composer and will delight the audience with jazz music from her arranger, Colleen Schmidt. holiday repertoire. Gillespie has perThe pair are captivating and exciting formed locally and around the country. Florida audiences with themed concerts. Her music features her signature saxoThis Sunday matinee show is great for phone and new and classic jazz songs. the whole family. The show is from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Advanced tickets for the shows are On Saturday, December 29 begin$18 for Firehouse Cultural Center memning at 7:30 p.m. you can see Stephanie bers and $23 for non-members. At the K with La Lucha. Stephanie Klco-Brosius door tickets are $23 for Firehouse is an American jazz vocalist based in Cultural Center members and $28 for Germany. She will perform with La non-members. Lucha, a Tampa Bay based trio. Their The Firehouse Pub offers communal repertoire is a diverse mixture of Latinseating. There is a cash bar and refreshinspired rhythms with jazz standards, ments are available. twisted arrangements of pop songs and The Firehouse Cultural Center is original compositions. located at 101 1st Ave. in Ruskin. For Gloria West and The Gents perform more information and to purchase tickold school stride and swing Jazz with a ets, please visit www.firehouseculturalsultry twist on Saturday, January 12 from center.org or call 645-7651.
The greens (swamp) SouthShore and a photograph Regional Library is of a Tampa high hosting two art rise building. exhibits this month. Melanie The first event the Hanson, the Art Smartphone/Tablet Coordinator at the Photography SouthShore Exhibit, features Regional Library photographs taken said, “This exhibit on either an allows people to iPhone or an iPad. get out of the box. The second is a Everyone has a The December art exhibit in the John National Native smartphone, so it Crawford Gallery at the SouthShore Regional American Heritage is good to see the Library in Ruskin features two distinct and wonderful art exhibits. One is of photographs photos that people Exhibit. This one taken on either a smartphone or a tablet. The take with them. features artwork second is Native American artwork created by from students who The smartphones students who attend Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High School. attend Brooks make photography DeBartolo accessible to Collegiate High School located in Tampa. everyone.” All of the artwork is located in the The National Native American John Crawford Gallery. The exhibits can Heritage Exhibit features 12 pieces of artbe seen now through the end of work. There is a variety of mediums disDecember during the library’s normal played in the exhibit. This was set up as operating hours. a community exhibit. The Smartphone/Tablet Photography Hanson said, “The students are realExhibit features the photographs of two ly talented. There is a nice range of local residents, Cathryn Paulus and grade levels displayed with a wide range Suzanne S. Austin-Hill. of styles.” Hanson added, “I am Paulus is a 20 year old Tampa resiimpressed and enjoyed seeing what they dent who participates in a variety of made.” exhibits. Paulus paints and uses other art The next exhibit to be featured in the mediums in addition to photography. Her John Crawford Gallery is Painted Art. photographs in the current exhibit feature According to Hanson, “We are accepting her cat, Toby, a yellow daisy, a beachside all mediums of paint, but it is limited to view and an ocean view. Two of her phopaintings.” Area residents, whether they tographs were taken with the iPhone and are amateurs or professionals, are invited two with an iPad. to apply. The deadline to submit an Austin-Hill is a retired educator. Her application is Friday, December 21. To photographs have been featured at the obtain an application, please email Florida Museum of Photographic Arts in Hanson at southshoreart@hillsboroughTampa. Austin-Hill has four photographs county.org or call 273-3652. in the current exhibit. They are all taken The SouthShore Regional Library is with a smart phone. Austin-Hill’s photolocated at 15816 Beth Shields Way in graphs feature a heron, a fish, a study in Ruskin.
rb
usi n es ses
and
ou
rm em b er s.
Residents Can Enjoy Great Entertainment At The Firehouse Pub In Ruskin
th e ily
Air Conditioning & Heating
res
fa m
env iro
nsu
cre ate a
suc ces so
f ou
r co
mm un
ity,
ou
$30
nm
ent
NOW LOCATED AT: 10101 Bloomingdale Ave, Suite 102 Riverview, FL 33578 (813) 234-5944 www.RiverviewChamber.com
Celebrating Celebrating 30 years in business!
Up to $1700 in Rebates!
th a te
erc e mm f Co mb er o ha ew C R iv erv i The Gre ate r
ser ves to
Sunairtampa.com | 813-684-9919
CAC044863
Family Owned and Operated for 30 Years
AC
TUNE UP Expires: January 30, 2019 Retail Value: $96
December 2018
Page 43
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Weird, Wacky And Wonderful Holidays*December 2018
Repeal Day * Monkey Day * Festivus For The Rest Of Us * Fruitcake Day Did you know that there are an abundance of daily holidays and special days every month? Some are immersed in tradition, while others may be silly, bizarre, unique, special or inspirational. Unofficial Holidays are not traditionally marked on calendars but are celebrated by various groups and individuals. Some are designed to promote a cause or to recognize historical events not recognized officially, while others are fun holidays, generally intended to just be humorous. So, in the midst of our busy lives, consider taking time to enjoy some of the entertaining but lesser-known holidays throughout the year. December is a month filled with love, humanity and gift giving events like Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s Eve. December is the last month in the Gregorian calendar and its name is based on the Latin term for 10. In the Roman calendar, December was the 10th month until the addition of January and February at the beginning of the year. In the Northern Hemisphere, December has the shortest daylight hours and marks the beginning of winter. Although Christmas gets most of the attention this time of year, December is a month full of other fun days as well. If you need a moment to forget the stress that sometimes comes with the major holidays, there's probably a few days here that can bring joy throughout the month. Let’s start this month with Repeal Day, on Wednesday, December 5. On this day in 1933 the 21st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, thereby
repealing the 18th Amendment, which banned the sale, distribution and consumption of alcohol. This prohibition period started on January 5 1919 and officially ended on December 5 1933. The 21st Amendment brought back the neighborhood pubs and breweries to society. Celebrate the end of prohibition by stop-
work and Fetus-X comic strips as well as promoting it online along with other artists. Since then, Monkey Day has been celebrated internationally in America, Canada, Germany and the United Kingdom. So go bananas on this day and grab the kids and head to the Lowery Park Zoo or Busch Gardens to get your
ping by your local bar, tavern, winery, distillery or brewery and enjoy a drink. There are so many places to celebrate, but if you’re looking for someplace that can really appreciate this day, visit Ciro’s Speakeasy in Tampa. Ciro’s is a throwback to prohibition era. You will need to call ahead for the secret password. Visit www.cirostampa.com. After celebrating the end of bootlegging, there is no better time to honor our special primate friends than on Monkey Day on Friday, December 14. While the holiday is mainly about monkeys, it also celebrates other primates such as apes, chimpanzees and lemurs. The day was accidently created in 2000 when artist Casey Sorrow jokingly scribbled Monkey Day on a friend’s calendar. He then began including Monkey Day in his art-
fill of monkeys. Use #MonkeyDay to post on social media. To donate to monkey causes, visit www. monkeyday.com/links/. If you are looking for a holiday that serves as an alternative to the commercialization of Christmas, then look no further than Festivus, on Sunday, December 23. Festivus gained notoriety on the critically acclaimed sitcom, Seinfeld. It appeared on the episode entitled ‘The Strike’ that aired December 18, 1997. Although Festivus originated as a way to make light of traditional holidays and ease the stress of family get-togethers, today it has grown into a fun holiday for the entire family. According to Festivus tradition, the Festivus meal is accompanied with the airing of grievances, followed by the feats of strength, where the
By Kelly Wise Valdes
head of the house-hold wrestles with other guests. So grab an aluminum pole and greet people by saying ‘Happy Festivus for the rest of us!’ Thursday, December 27 is National Fruitcake Day, and no, we are not talking about your crazy Uncle Bob. This is the day to pay homage to the controversial and sometimes misunderstood fruitcake. This cake is traditionally made with chopped candied or dried fruit, nuts, spices and alcohol. Many people give fruitcakes as gifts for the holidays, howev-er, more than 38 percent of people say they re-gift their fruitcakes. Nevertheless, fruitcakes have remained popular for thousands of years. The Ancient Egyptians buried their loved ones with fruitcakes because they believed the fruitcake was essential for the journey to the afterlife. The small cakes could withstand long voyages without spoiling. Publix, Winn Dixie and commercial bakeries such as Harry & David all get their fruitcake candies from local company, Paradise, Inc., located on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Plant City. There’s a 90 percent chance that if you’re eating a fruitcake, the candied fruit originated from Paradise, Inc. Download coupons and find locations for the best fruitcakes at www.paradisefruitco.com. December boasts many other fun holidays including National Pastry Day, Violin Day, Poinsettia Day and National Eggnog Day, just to name a few. For a complete list of holidays, please visit www.holidayinsights.com.
Page 44
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
Favorite Things Sweepstakes Highlights Best Of Shop Local & Best Early Bird Prize Ever By Marie Gilmore
Favorite Things, and we have gone to local businesses and asked them to give us ideas for a few of the top items available this holiday season. From now until midDecember, we will be collecting Our Favorite Things all throughout the communis g te Thin will ty and putting ri o v a F ird the k home e early b them togethtrecki tooze! This year, thFishHawk. ie W ri a h ri P ny rS er in one giant Last yeaeepstakes Grandom Pinch-a-Pen g fr Sw gift basket that will be given Holiday a Big Green Eg win out in a Sweepstakes for our readers. “We have had so many great For three years, Osprey items coming in and someone is Observer newspapers has been going to be very excited to partnering with local retailers to receive all of these great items publish the Holiday Favorite from the businesses in our comThings Sweepstakes and gift munity,” said Kerrie Hoening, guide, and this year promises to be one of the best yet! This year, Advertising Sales Manager. “We have such great success we've partnered with our friends over the last two seasons and at Pinch-a-Penny FishHawk to we are excited to share some of offer an early bird prize of a Big this year's treasures from our Green Egg Grill! We are so excited to have such a great prize for local small businesses with our readers.” our readers! Bridget Jenkins Wilson, owner The campaign is called, the of Cardinal Roofing and a memOsprey Observer, A Few of Our
ber of the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce, said the Chamber is also focused on encouraging local shopping this holiday season. “Anything we can do to keep our local businesses in the spotlight is great for our community,” she said. “And, this is a great opportunity for Osprey Observer readers to have a chance to win an amazing
holiday gift.” To enter, email Sweepstakes to contest@ospreyobserver.com or fill out the entry form and send in by mail, fax or email. Last year, more than 500 local residents entered the campaign and ONE lucky winner walked away with a prize package worth more than $2,000. Good luck and thank you for shopping local!
Holiday Coins From Corbin’s, Spa Gifts From DayDreams And A Little Shine From McAuley By Michelle Colesanti Corbin’s Stamp & Coin Is Your Source For Treasured Family Heirlooms If you are looking for the perfect gift, maybe for a family with a new baby or to celebrate a momentous occasion, a special coin may be the perfect keepsake. Start a new family tradition by commemorating the Christmas season each year. Gift Basket Item: Holiday coin Corbin’s Holiday collections Silver Coin are the perValue: fect way. Silver coins &29.95 are 1 troy oz. of .999 fine silver and are available for $29.95 in a gift box or as an ornament that can be displayed. The coins measure 39mm in diameter and have a reeded edge. There are nine varieties this year: Baby's First Christmas, Bells with Season's Greetings, Santa with Merry Christmas, Angel with A Christmas Wish, Puppies with We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Farm/Tractor with Merry Christmas,
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas with Poinsettias, Manger scene with Oh Holy
Journey To Tranquility At DayDreams Day Spa With all the stress the holidays bring, what better gift for someone (or yourself) than to escape for a few hours to DayDreams Day Spa & Bath Shop which can be made possible with a gift card to Night and Daydreams. Train Station With many different types of spa with a train packages to choose from including and snow. All massage therapy, body therapy, skin have the care therapy, nail and pedicure treatsame reverse: ments, waxings & brows, airbrush ‘Best Wishes tanning, maternity services, services For for men Peace and for And teens Joy This Holiday Season’ and and the date.The only ones with more, the date on the front are the there is Farm, the Train and Baby's someFirst Christmas. The coins thing come either in an Air-Tite for capsule with a gift box everyone. The shop in Gift Basket Item: Daydreams also offers spa prodor in an ornament holder. The ornament 65 Minute Serenity ucts which would also make holder does not fit great gifts. Pevonia Skin Care Stone Massage into the gift box. products are offered. Value: Corbin’s Coins is Gift certificates are available $115 located at 209 N. Kings at the Spa, located at 658 Ave. in Brandon and is Oakfield Dr. in Brandon or online at open Monday thru Friday from 9 www.daydreamsdayspa.com. A seca.m.- 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 ond DayDreams location is in Lakeland at 1463 Town Center Dr. a.m.-1 p.m. Call 651-3266.
CORBIN’S
Stamp & Coin
Gift Basket Item: 14k Tin Cup 89mm Pearl Necklace Value: $452
For more information on this location, call 863-686-5859.
McAuley Fine Jewelry Is A Gem In The Community This season, design something uniquely ‘you’ to surprise your special someone. McAuley Fine Jewelry will help you plan your custom-made piece of jewelry. Jewelry repairs are also done on premises as well as repairs and restoration of old watches. McCauley Fine Jewelry is located on Oakfield Drive, in the Atlantic Village Plaza, Kings Ave. & Oakfield Dr. It is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Gift Of Music Showcase, Cooking Classes At Rolling Pin & Nothing Bundt Cakes Call 689-8124 or visit www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com.
A Few Of Your Favorite Things Can Be Found At Music Showcase Music is the international lanGift Basket guage that is understood and Item: enjoyed by all. Ukelele and $20 Share your love Gift Certificate of music by Total Value: offering voice or $50 instrument lessons to your favorite student. Instrument rentals start at $10 (if you don’t want to make a purchase). If you sign up online, the instrument will be delivered to your school. All of your music needs can be found at Music Showcase, which offers competitive pricing on sheet music and Rolling Pin books. There Cooking Classes is an in-house & Norma Fleming repair shop, Themed Gift and private Basket and group lesTotal Value: sons are $300 offered.
Is your child interested in musical theatre, acting, or maybe photography? Sign them up at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-5998 or visit www.MusicShowcaseOnline.com and www.FAOPA.org.
Great Gift Ideas and Classes Help Make Rolling Pin A Great Stop For Holiday Gift Needs If you are stuck coming up with creative gift ideas, make a visit to Rolling Pin to find something for every chef in your life. Rolling Pin offers cooking classes for all types of meals. Stop by and browse the gourmet retail store’s extensive collection of classic and unique kitchenware. You will find everything from barware, bakeware, aprons, towels and mitts, coffees and teas, cookware, electrics, gadgets,
gifts for entertaining, knives and cutting boards, outdoor cooking and more. Enjoy shopping in the specialty food and wine departments. There are many great reasons to attend Rolling Pin’s cooking classes, whether you enjoy cooking or just eating, from great date nights to learning about new foods, this is a great gift idea anyone would be excited to receive. It is also Brandon’s only Platinum Dealer for the Big Green Egg, the ultimate cooking experience. Rolling Pin Emporium is open for private events too. Gift cards are also available. Rolling Pin is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 6532418 or visit http://rollingpinonline.com/ for more information.
Nothing Bundt Cakes Are Perfect Desserts To Add To Your Holiday Meals Nothing Bundt Cakes creates cakes using hand-crafted recipes that not only remind you of home, but
By Michelle Colesanti
also open you to a new world. At Nothing Bundt Cakes, you get real eggs, butter and cream cheese in every cake. Not only do these cakes look great, they taste even better. These are great holiday gifts to take to all of your holiday events. It is located at 11238 Sullivan Street in Winthrop Town Centre. Everything you need to make your party complete is available. The hardest part is choosing from the 10 delicious varieties, including a ‘featured’ flavor. Hours are Monday to Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.,
Gift Basket Item: 3 Bundtlet Tower; plus gift card for one free bundlet per month for one year Value: $62.85
Something New At Mainstream Boutique, Make A Masterpiece At Pinot’s Palette By Michelle Colesanti Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com or call 409-2394 to place your order ahead of time.
Mainstream Boutique You can visit Mainstream Boutique, a retail clothing store, in Winthrop to get some great ideas on gifts as well as attire for the holiday season. Everything in the store is new. It carries clothing, jewelry, accessories and shoes. You can purchase head to toe. Enjoy new arrivals weekly. The exclusive brand of jeans called Mac and Me is available. They are the best jeans for all body types. It feels like you are wearing your pajamas. They fit in all the right places. Once a woman purchases one, they are back for more. Another popular brand in stock is Liverpool. All jewelry is handmade and
made in the USA. Some of the jewelry is made locally and are one-of-akind pieces. Other services offered are One on One Style sessions, Ladies Night Out and shopping for a cause. Mainstream Boutique is located in Winthrop at 11231 Sullivan St. in Riverview. Hours are Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-4 p.m. Call 643-0090.
Pinot’s Palette Gift Certificate Offers Creative Gift Ideas For For those in Mainstream: your gift life that Value $100 enjoy creativity, consider purchasing a gift card to Pinot’s Palette. It provides everything you need for an unforgettable evening of painting, fun, beer and wine for either a girls’ night out or a date night. Both seasoned painters and newbies will enjoy the experience of creating their own personal pieces of art. You may also want to consider
Locally Owned and Operated
Everything Cooking and Entertaining Gourmet Foods and Boutique Wines Cooking Classes, Private Parties & Corporate Events
Brandon B Brandon’s randon’s ’s Big Green “EggQuarters” “EggQuarters”
LEARN • COOK • ENTERTAIN 813!653!2418 2080 Badlands Dr. Brandon, Fl 33511 Sun 11-6, MonMon-Wed Wed 10-6, Thurs-Sat 10-9
www.rollingpinonline.com "#1 Rated Cooking Classes & Kitchen Store"
0400 or email Brandon@PinosPalette.com. Visit www.PinotsPalette.com/Brandon.
gifting a piece of art you have specially created at Pinot’s Palette for that special person in your life. For more information, call 685-
Pinot’s Palette Holiday Parties Will Gift Certificate Sparkle At The Regent And Wood The Regent is a Palette Christmas great place to host Painting your corporate holiValue: $50 day party. Plan now to
‘wow’ your staff or clients by hosting an event in this spectacu-
Christmas C ins 1oz Pure Silver
$29.95
plus tax each
Gift Boxed or Ornaments
CORBIN’S
Stamp & Coin 209 N. Kings Ave. Brandon, Florida 33510
813-651-3266 corbincoin@verizon.net
Mon-Fri 9am - 4pm
Sat 9am - 1pm
*Silver prices subject to change.
Book The Regent & Suncoast RV Rental lar setting. The Regent is one of largest venues in the area, but it can also be a small, intimate and stylish one. It can accommodate intimate parties of 50 upwards to 600 seated. The Regent hosts many events including breathtaking wedding ceremonies and receptions, successful fundraisers, glamorous galas, tradeshows, corporate training and seminars, proms, homecomings, church services and even sweet 16 parties. When planning your next event, Suncoast RV consider The Rental Gift Regent. Certificate Hours are Tuesday to Value: Friday from 9 $200 a.m.-5 p.m. and
By Michelle Colesanti
Saturday and Sunday by appointment only. It is closed on Monday. The Regent is located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. For more information, call 5712494 or email info@experiencetheregent.com. Visit www.ExperienceTheRegent.com.
Creative Family Memories With Suncoast RV Rental Whether you are planning a trip out to Yellowstone, a Florida staycation, a Gift Basket college campus Item: tour or a football tailgating weekFlower end, Suncoast Bouquet RV Rental has an Value: RV to suit most $150 needs and budgets.
Enter the Sweepstakes to win a prize basket of items from The Favorite Things Shop Local Campaign. Why would you like to win the Shop Local Sweepstakes Basket?
Name: Address: Phone: Email: Community:
Family-owned and operated since 2005, Suncoast is in the business of Continued on Page 50
PINOTSPALETTE.COM/BRANDON/HOLIDAY
Pinot’s Palette Brandon • 2086 Badlands Dr. • 813.618.3064
Enter to win online at contest@opreyobserver.com, fax to 657-4469 or mail to 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511.
Also, enter by email at contest@ospreyobserver.com
Give The Gift Of Mobile Massage & Go Under The Sea AT The Florida Aquarium By Michelle Colesanti helping families make unforgettable memories. New model Class C and Class A RVs with TVs inside and out, automatic awnings and all of the comforts of home. Plan a holiday trip this season or surprise family, friends or a loved one with holiday gift certificates for an RV trip. Live in the Action. Call 984-0107 or visit www.suncoastrvrental.com to view fleet or book now.
323-4901or email dveten@gmail.com. Visit on Facebook at Daniellas Mobile Massage.
Gift Your Family Florida Aquarium Passes There are plenty fish in the sea and plenty at the Florida Aquarium too. The fish and other sea life and birds housed at the Aquarium allow you Give A Gift Of to see them up close Relaxation and personal. The Daniella's Mobile Florida Aquarium Massage offers Deep offers great holiday Tissue, gift ideas. Neuromuscular, Why not purPrenatal and Sports chase gift certificates Massage. Her goal is for your family or to provide pain and friends to visit the stress relief through Aquarium. If you purtherapeutic massage chase annual all in the convenience membership of your home. She is a Schedule Your Appointment Today! passes, your gift professional, licensed will continue to be D Ti l l Massage Therapist and used throughout the year. has 16 years of experience as Gift Certificate You can directly help well as a background in For One Hour support the care and conPhysical Therapy. Daniella offers a flexible Free Daniella’s servation of animals at The schedule. Mobile Massage Florida Aquarium and in the To schedule an appointValue $65 wild by symbolically adopting an animal of your choice. By ment or to get gift certificates, doing this, you are helping to care for which make great holiday gifts, call Schedule Your Appointment Today!
A Tampa family tradition. Our toffee tradition started over 40 years ago.
• Fresh handmade Some favorites are: • No preservatives Chocolate Pecan • New York Style Cheesecake White Chocolate Walnut Chocolate Almond Coconut • Italian Dessert Delicacies White Chocolate Pumpkin Pecan • Glutten-Free option Pick up at our location at 8205 S. US Hwy 301, Riverview (at Riverview Rd) • 813-758-8472
SHOP ONLINE AT: TOFFEETRADITION.COM
10% OFF Order* *Excludes Catering
Corporate and Event Catering Corporate Gifts & Desserts Wholesale Available Italian Family and Individual Meals
CALL 813-758-8472 TO ORDER TODAY!
7,000+ animal residents, save imperiled and endangered species in the wild and so much more. Adoption packages make great gifts for holidays, birthdays or any special occasion. The Florida Gift Basket Item: Aquarium also FL Aquarium offers a variety of tours, cruises Family 4-Pack and dive experiTotal Value: ences which would also make $100
SunKissed Acres has joined with Nights of Shimmering Lights to bring a series of unique events to Tampa Bay, starting with Shimmering Lights WINTER, a self-guided, 1/4-mile walking trail through dancing lights to music! • Saturday Nov. 24th - Sunday Dec. 23rd • Open Thursday & Sunday weekly • Time: 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. • Open Friday & Saturday weekly • Time: 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. • Will be Open Dec 24th • Closed Mon. to Wed.
• Cash & credit with all major credit cards • Closed on rainy days • Every paid entrant gets a ticket for a free craft to take home or a cookie to enjoy. Redeem in Holiday Village at Concession stand. • This is an unpaved walking trail & ground can be un even in places, wear appropriate footwear & use caution.
For more info, please visit TheSunkissedAcres.com
A Gift Of Redefine Beauty, Catering & Toffee Gifts, Pets & More At Kim’s Natural meat balls. Toffee Traditions Will Satisfy Enjoy items Your Sweet Tooth such as With over 40 years of tradition, Nonna Toffee Tradition & DiMisa 721 Josephine’s Gourmet Catering offers fresh handhand-breaded made buttery toffees. Jennifer chicken cutlet Rhoades, owner, is excited to share with mac n cheese or Pet Gift her family traditions of making deliJoey D’s Meatball Sub, cious toffee with the community, Basket named after loved ones. which will make a great gift to bring Value $100 Meals are available indito someone’s home you are visiting vidually via take-out or this holiday season. Of course, through her catering servicthere is no reason that you can’t es. Why not treat your office staff to Look Great For The Gift Certificate enjoy them yourself too. There a holiday lunch catered by DiMisa Holidays; Redefine are no preservatives and it is For Laser Hair 721 Gourmet Beauty Offers Many made in small batches with Removal Catering? Non-Surgical Options only the finest ingredients. Redefine Beauty offers Value $500 Gluten free options are offered non-surgical options such as too. Two Bags of Toffee Tradition & DiMisa 721 Neuromodulators, Dermal Fillers, Gourmet Catering is located at 8205 Toffee (chocoKybella, Laser Hair Removal, late and white S. US Hwy. 301 in Riverview. Visit IPL/Photofacial, Tattoo Removal, toffeetradition.com or visit on chocolate) Fractional Skin Resurfacing, Long Facebook at www.facebook.com/tofPulse ND: Yag (Vein Treatment), Value $30 feetradition/ to discover the latest Peels, Facials, Skin Care, Make Up specials. Call 758-8472. and MicroChanneling/MicroNeedling. Italian Family All patients deserve to be treated Cater Your Holiday Parties Meal of choice with honesty and respect and will Through DiMisa 721 Gourmet come to know that the knowledge Catering Offering Italian (Feeds 4-6) and expertise at Redefine Beauty will Specialties Value $45 Jennifer Rhoades, who has a long bring the best results. Sicilian heritage and grew up in the Redefine Beauty is located at You will find their walk-up window kitchen cooking with her grandmoth405 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon. For at 8205 S US Hwy 301, just north of er offers gourmet catering. She more information, call 820-3138 or the Alafia River next door to Peck’s. developed a love of cooking at a email info@re-definebeauty.com. Visit on Facebook at young age. The dishes created are Please visit our website at www.rewww.facebook.com/toffeetradition/ to authentic Italian; all hand-made definebeauty.com. discover the latest specials or call sauces and dishes, and hand tossed 758-8472. great gifts. The Florida Aquarium is located at 701 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. For more information, call 273-4000 or visit www.flaquarium.org.
By Michelle Colesanti
Don’t Forget Your Pet’s In the Holiday Celebrations Your pets are part of the family and you don’t want them to miss out on the holiday celebrations. Kim’s Natural Pet Foods has everything you need to give your pets a happy, healthy life specializing in holistic foods made from real ingredients like meat, fish, and healthful vegetables; not byproducts, it offers a great selection of all natural foods as well as unique natural chews and treats, including a frozen section featuring all natural raw food diets. All foods are American made, corn, wheat, soy, and gluten free. You will find natural remedies for worms, fleas and ticks. Kim’s also offers a wide variety of toys, dog and cat bedding, apparel and supplies. Located at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For information, call 684-3663 or visit kimsnaturalpetfoods.com. Give The Gift Of Health With Y Membership We all start the New Year with great intentions. We make resolutions to eat healthier and to exercise more. This year, it is time to do something about it. The gift of a Campo Y membership to someone you care about has benefits that can last a lifetime.
“Experience the Difference”
SHIRTS
Only
$1.99 ea.
with coupon
Apollo Beach Bloomingdale Bloomingdale Brandon Brandon FishHawk Valrico Valrico Plant City Riverview Riverview Riverview NEW STORE! Seffner
20% OFF Entire Order Dry Cleaning
220 Apollo Beach Blvd. (South Shore Shopping Ctr.) 3248 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. (Royal Oaks Shopping Ctr.) 3425 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. (Shoppes of Lithia) 913 Brandon Blvd. (Brandon Mall) 1836 W. Lumsden Rd. 16739 FishHawk Blvd. (FishHawk Shopping Ctr.) 1999 S.R. 60 E. (Valrico Commons) 2511 S.R. 60 E (Shoppes Brandon Farms) 2621 Thonotosassa Rd. 13196 US Hwy 301 S. (Summerfield Crossing) 11697 Boyette Rd. (Goolsby Point) 11444 US Hwy 301 South (Rivercrest Commons) 1515 N. Parsons Ave. (N. Grove Plaza)
SHIRTS
$199
Ea. Laundered Only
645-1499 654-8113 643-0922 684-4499 643-6944 654-7991 654-2324 643-4825 752-6631 671-4156 672-1832 672-4022 684-5897
20% OFF 20% OFF Entire Order
Comforters & Blankets
Wedding Gowns Alterations Drapes
Majik Touch Cleaners
Majik Touch Cleaners
Majik Touch Cleaners
Majik Touch Cleaners
Valid on Incoming Orders only, no exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. Expires 1/8/2019 OO-R
Valid on Incoming Orders only, no exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. Expires 1/8/2019 OO-R
Valid on Incoming Orders only, no exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. Expires 1/8/2019 OO-R
Valid on Incoming Orders only, no exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. Expires 1/8/2019 OO-R
Six Month Family YMCA Membership them, but through the friendCampo Y offers many ships made through the other exercise options for all programs offered. ages and body types such The local Campo Y is truly a as Yoga, cycling, Pilates, part of our community so make aerobics and much more. it a part of your family. Located at Many programs and 6 Month 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico, it camps are offered for the Family is open Monday to Friday from family including child care while you work out. Membership to 5 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday from 7 YMCA a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday from Sports for the kids are Value: $569 12 Noon-6 p.m. available such as basCall 684-1371. Visit www.tamketball, volleyball and paymca.org/locations/campo. more. Seniors not only benefit from workouts geared toward
One Lucky Winner Will Receive Big Green Egg From FishHawk Pinch A Penny Do you enjoy cooking and barbequing? If so, it is time for a new tradition and Pinch a Penny, through the Osprey Observer’s holiday sweepstakes, is offering one lucky reader the opportunity to win a Big Green Egg, which will be the ‘early bird’ holiday prize. That means that you need to get your entries in to the Osprey Observer early as the drawing will be held in mid-December. What is the Big Green Egg? It is a complete outdoor cooking system (the only outdoor cooker you will ever need). It blends ancient traditions and modern technology. It is strong and durable and provides better heat insulation than any other outdoor cooker on the market. The Big Green Egg stands alone as the most versatile barbecue and outdoor cooking product on the market. You can make everything from pizza to ribs, or holiday dinner and desserts. Whatever you choose, it
By Michelle Colesanti
will exceed all your expectations for culinary perfection. The drawing will be for a MiniMax style Big Green Egg. The value on this popular backyard addition is $800. It is an invaluable culinary tool for restaurant chefs, and the one that will be given away is designed with the height of a Mini yet all the volume capabilities of a Small. It has 133 sq. in. of cooking area. The MiniMax comes with an easy to grip carrier, so it is perfect as a tableside cooker at your outdoor party or a traveling EGG for motor homes or tailgating. The MiniMax will come complete with the stand. Since pool season never really ends in Florida, it is also a great time to consider pool items or gift certificates for pool service as holiday gifts. Stop by to get some great ideas. The FishHawk Pinch-A-Penny located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in the Winn Dixie Plaza in Lithia. Call 6553700.
December 2018
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 53
Holiday Fun With Lights, Mr. & Mrs. Claus, A Christmas Story & Snow Celebrate The Holidays On Tampa’s Pirate Taxi
A Tampa tradition returns select nights November 30 - December 30. Hop on the Pirate Water Taxi for Tampa’s most unique holiday celebration on this 45 minute trip. View festive decorations, lighted bridges and other surprises along the Hillsborough River. River of Lights features a whimsical narration, Christmas Carolers, hot chocolate and a holiday cookie for all. There is no better way to experience the Holidays in Tampa. For info, visit www.piratewatertaxi.com/events/river-oflights-2018.
Celebrate The SEAson At The Florida Aquarium
This year, celebrate the holiday SEAson at The Florida Aquarium. The Polar Express™ 4-D Experience® - November 15-January 11 from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. - Guests can feel the snow and smell the hot cocoa with the amazing 4-D effects. The 13-minute show is a family-friendly, modern classic and will be shown multiple times an hour. It is included in general admission. Saturdays With Santa - Santa will be at the Aquarium for photos starting the Saturday after Thanksgiving and each Saturday in December from 10:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. Santa’s elves will join him and dive in the Aquarium’s Coral Reef habitat during its regularly scheduled dive presentations. Breakfast With Santa - Meet Santa
and his animal friends when you attend The Florida Aquarium’s Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 9 from 8-9:30 a.m. Begin your visit to the Aquarium with a wonderful buffet breakfast. Since Santa’s elves are pretty busy this time of year, Aquarium staff will be on hand, accompanied by some special animal guests for everyone to meet. Guests have the opportunity to purchase photos with Santa that morning. For info call 273-4030. Snow Days At The Florida Aquarium- Enjoy a real snow play area for kids starting December 26-31 from 12 Noon- 5 p.m. The Aquarium will be open during regular business hours (9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). Visit flaquarium.org or call 273-4000.
Christmas In The Wild Celebrates The Season With More Lights And Jolly Surprises
It’s the most wonderful time of the year as ZooTampa at Lowry Park transforms into a world of holiday cheer for Christmas in the Wild! Families will experience a merry and memorable evening. From the stunning sights of thousands of twinkling lights, delectable seasonal holiday treats and refreshments, to the wonder and enchantment of wildlife at night. Enjoy carolers dressed in Dickens era costumes and story time with Mrs. Claus. Guests will be mesmerized by a 50-ft. ani-
mated Christmas tree complete with 12,000 dancing lights, 2,000 ornaments and an 8-ft star. The popular ‘A Present for Hazel’, a holiday themed animal show, returns featuring famous animal ambassadors. Visiting Santa in his workshop is included with the event. Other holiday themed areas include Holiday Hoedown, Polar Paradise and Candy Cane Lane. Christmas in the Wild takes place select nights: November 2324 and 30, December 1, 7-8, 14-16, 2023 and 26-30. For info, visit zootampa.org.
Celebrate Your Holidays The LEGOLAND® Way
This jolly time of year features a combination of seasonal shows, special treats, twinkling lights and more during Christmas Bricktacular and Kids’ New Year’s Party. These events are included in general admission – no extra ticket required! Don’t miss the Christmas Tree spectacular with dancing lights and songs on a 30-ft. tall LEGO® Christmas tree. Deck the halls with elves during a new Holly Jolly Jubilee live show. Ring in the New Year from December 26-31. Kids’ New Year’s Party features an amazing nightly fireworks show, dance parties, special building activities and more. On December 31, enjoy a brick drop at a kidfriendly hour.
Compiled By Michelle Colesanti
Build unforgettable memories. Enjoy hands-on building and capture precious memories at one-of-a-kind photo ops, including a giant LEGO® wreath, life-size LEGO snowmen and a sleigh with reindeer made out of thousands of bricks. For info, visit www.legoland.com/florida/planning-your-visit/specialevents/holidays-at-legoland.
The Magic Of Chistmas At Gaylord Palms Resort
The magic of Christmas comes to Gaylord Palms Resort, from Friday, November 16 through Sunday, January 6, 2019. Bring your family and enjoy ICE! This all new theme features the beloved classic holiday movie A Christmas Story™. Watch this hilarious family tale come to life through interactive ice sculptures and displays, such as The Old Man’s Major Award and the ultimate triple dog dare at the school’s flagpole. Everything is handcarved from two million pounds of ice. While there, you can also enjoy: Elf on the Shelf Character Breakfast, Build-A-Bear Workshop®, Scavenger Hunt, Snow Tubing, Santa's Snow Throw, Cirque Dreams UnWrapped, a free live stage show, Gingerbread Decorating Corner, Mrs. Claus' Christmas Traditions, Dreams of Christmas Light Show, Photos with Santa, Christmas Tree Trail and more. For info, visit www.marriott.com/hotelinfo/mcogp-gaylord-palms-resort-and-convention-center/christmas-at-gaylordpalms/csyr9pd/home-page.mi.
Buy a $10 Game Card
Get an Additional $10 Bonus Play
FREE!
*Cannot be split amongst cards Expires: January 31, 2019
Visit our website for more of The Alley's Specials! • Proud Sponsor of the South County Spartans Athletic Program BUSINESS MEETINGS • CONFERENCES • NETWORKING EVENTS • EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION EVENTS • LUNCHEONS • HOLIDAY PARTIES • FUNDRAISERS • REUNIONS
10221 Big Bend Rd. Riverview | 813.672.8353 | THEALLEYATSOUTHSHORE.COM | Sun-Thur 9AM-Midnight | Fri & Sat 9AM-2:30AM
Page 54
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12
Enjoy Christmas Every Day At Busch Gardens Christmas Town™ Staff Report Experience the joy and wonder of the holiday season every day at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town™. New this year, guests can enjoy millions of twinkling lights, Christmas shows and Sing-A-Long Train and of course visits with Santa and Rudolph®. It will take place every day of the season starting Saturday, November 17 and continuing through Monday, December 31. Christmas Town features extended hours on weekends and additional select dates with even more new experiences, including an all-new holiday show, indulgent culinary treats, visits to Rudolph’s® Winter Wonderland, nighttime experiences on Florida’s best thrill rides and so much more. Christmas Town is included with any daily admission or annual pass, and is open until 10 p.m. on select dates. There is so much to experience and see during Christmas Town. New this year at Dragon Fire Grill is the holiday spectacular ‘Christmas Is...’ featuring contemporary music that celebrates seasonal traditions. The new show joins a festive line-up of returning favorite shows including Christmas on Ice, Elmo’s Christmas Wish, the Holiday Hills Band, Carol of the Bells light show and the Christmas Town Sing-A-Long Train. The new Brunch with Santa is a Christmas-themed dining experience that’s perfect for the entire family. Adults can enjoy unlimited mimosas or ‘build your own Bloody Mary’ upgrades, and
D O G
D A Y C A R E
•
everyone can delight in a menu bursting with delicious holiday delicacies. No Christmas celebration is complete without a visit from St. Nick and guests will have the opportunity to take a photo with Santa as part of their experience. Brunch with Santa is available at the Serengeti Overlook Restaurant on select dates from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come early with the whole family and make Christmas Town the unforgettable backdrop for your holiday card! Santa will be awaiting your visit at Santa’s House presented by Coca-Cola®. Additional
L O D G I N G
•
T R A I N I N G
Don’t Forget Your Dog’s Holiday Vacation! Book Your Lodging TODAY!
9708 Carr Road, Riverview 33569 • (just off Boyette Rd., 1 mile West of Bell Shoals Rd)
(813)672-WOOF (9663) • www.CanineCabana.BIZ
SAVE $5* On purchase of $50 or more
Code: XMAS2018 | Expires 01/15/19
Valrico 3455 Lithia Pinecrest Rd • 813-571-7200 Riverview 10273 Big Bend Rd • 813-672-6111
amazing photo opportunities are around every corner: the enchanting twinkling light tunnel leading into Stanleyville, all your favorite characters at Rudolph’s® Winter Wonderland, Ice and Poinsettia princesses along pathways, larger-thanlife Cookie Monster® and Elmo® nutcracker figures along the Sesame Street® Safari of Fun walkway, and playful penguins at the holiday-themed Penguin Point. Guests will discover even more merriment in the Christmas Town Village, celebrating the season in a new location.
Greeted by friendly snowmen, guests will be immersed in festive fun along the Gwazi pathway, including merry merchandise and tasty holiday treats. In this enchanting realm, little ones can even take a ride on the fan-favorite Jingle Bell Express miniature train. Indulge in winter whiskey and wine tastings while completing your holiday shopping with unique gifts from artisans around the world at the Artisan Market at Xcursions and around the park. For a gift that gives all year, shoppers can select a new Busch Gardens Annual Pass with benefits to enjoy exciting events, worldclass coasters, and up-close animal encounters. From Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum, guests can select the pass with perks they want most – all with no down payment. For a limited-time, Busch Gardens Annual Passes start as low as $9.99 per month for Florida residents. In 2019, Pass Members can look forward to unique benefits, the park’s 60th anniversary celebration and exclusive ride time for the spring opening of Tigris, Florida’s tallest launch coaster. For complete event information, including dates, times and packages, visit ChristmasTown.com. Be the first to know about events, special deals and future announcements by following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s blog and social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Insta gram.
December 2018
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 55
Where To See The Lights, Wonderland Of Lights, Christmas Lane & More To help you enjoy some simple quality time with friends and family while getting into the holiday spirit, check out some area light displays that everyone can enjoy.
Barrington Oaks - Christmas Lights Display
Barrington Oaks neighborhood opens up to guests in the spirit of the holiday to share varied light displays throughout its community. Gates open starting Friday, December 7 from 6–11 p.m. nightly, with extended hours Christmas Eve and Christmas day till 12:30 a.m. Please make a right hand turn as you enter the neighborhood, located off Lumsden Rd. just east of John Moore Rd.
Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village At Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
North Pole Productions presents Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. This holiday theme park will be open Thanksgiving night (November 22) through Saturday, December 29. Drive through a mile of dazzling lights and holiday displays, and then stop by the Christmas Village where you can visit circus attractions, a wolf exhibit, amusement rides, camel rides, and even photos with Santa. New this year, you can take a journey through the light display or just make a visit to the Village for a small admission fee. A variety of items such
By Michelle Colesanti
as Homemade Mini Donuts, Strawberry Shortcake with Mini Donuts, Sausage Sandwiches, Pizza, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Hot Chocolate, Funnel Cakes, Pulled Pork & Brisket Sandwiches will be available. Vehicles cost $25. Season passes are available for $40. The Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. For tickets and information, visit www.thewonderlandoflights.com.
Thursday, Friday and Saturdays at 7 and 8 p.m. Christmas Lane is a non-profit organization. Volunteers work more than 1,800 hours setting up. Hours are Thursday through Sunday from 6-10 p.m. each night. Tickets are $5 for adults. Children ages 4 to 12 are $3. Children 3 and under are free. Purchase your tickets at the event. Parking is free. Visit ChristmasLane.com or on Facebook at Christmas Lane.
Christmas Lane Returns To The Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds
People near and far visit the Oakdale Light Display in St. Petersburg. It was ranked in the top three nationally by NBC’s Today show, presented first in HGTV’s All Out Christmas Special and featured in People Magazine. Each year the light display is different adorning about one-half million lights. Enjoy the walk-ways, fountains, computerized light show, animated dolls and a snowman about three stories high. The most popular item is the large HOscale model railroad running 18 trains at one time. The kids love the double bubble machines and games. The event is free and fun for everyone. Visit the display from Friday, November 23 through Thursday, January
Christmas Lane returns to the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds on Friday, November 23and will take place until December 24 inside and around the Charlie Grimes Family Agriculture Center, 2508 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City. Celebrate 35 years of extraordinary displays featuring over 1.5 million lights adorning over 200 Christmas trees accompanying its larger-thanlife decorations and using more than 180,000 watts of power. Santa will be there each night. Concessions (hamburgers, fries, popcorn and more) and a Christmas Lane gift shop available. Living Nativities will be held
Oakdale Light Display Among Largest in the U.S.
3, 2019 from 6-10 p.m. at 2719 Oakdale St. St. in St. Petersburg. Visit ChristmasDisplay.org.
Enjoy Walking Trail At Nights of Shimmering Lights
Nights of Shimmering Lights has joined with Sun-Kissed Acres to bring a ¼-mile walking trail through shimming lights dancing to music. Walk at your own pace and stop as often as you like. Enjoy Winterland full of penguins, bears, old man winter and other favorite scenes. Don’t miss the Nativity scene in the religious area. See Santa and reindeer in the Toyland area. Rest on one of the many benches conveniently placed along the trail or take selfies at one of the photo stops. Get in the holiday mood with seasonal music and themed areas. This is an unpaved walking trail and ground can be uneven in places so wear appropriate footwear and use caution. It is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs at this time. It is open Thursday to Sunday starting November 24 through December 24. It will be closed on rainy days. The cost is $6 per person; ages 3 and under free. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Enjoy light concessions, photo spots. For info, visit www.TheSunKissedAcres.com.
Page 56
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Yes Florida Residents, Even You Can Enjoy Outdoor Ice Skating
By Kathy L. Collins
The muchday snack at the Café anticipated yearly at Winter Village which tradition of outfeatures Kahwa Coffee door ice skating Roasting, Mise has returned to Waterfront Bar and downtown Whatever Pops and Tampa. The grilled cheese. Winter Village This is a fun holifeatures Winter day activity for the Village Shops, whole family. Chrissy the Winter Village Nieves, a resident of Express, and Winthrop in Riverview more. The Winter said, “We are so excitIce skating, holiday shopping and more available at the Winter Village in Curtis Village and ice ed to go back this year. Hixon Park in downtown Tampa now skating take place Our son, Nolan, just through Saturday, January 5, 2019. in Curtis Hixon turned two so we know Park which is situated along the he will get a huge kick out of the giant Hillsborough River at 600 N. Ashley Dr. in tree, all the decorations and watching the downtown Tampa. ice skaters. Hopefully next year he will be The temporary ice skating rink and able to skate.” Winter Village will be up through You do not need to own skates. Rent Saturday, January 5, 2019. The Winter skates and get 90 minutes on the ice for Village Shops are made up of 10 bou$14. Group rates are available. You can tiques featuring local merchants and purrent the rink for a private party by contactveyors. The pop-up holiday shopping ing Rachel Radawec at rradawec@tamexperience allows shoppers to get an pasdowntown.com or call 221-3686. assortment of holiday decorations and The rink will be open Monday gifts. through Thursday from 4-9 p.m. On Back this year is the Winter Village Friday the hours are 4-10 p.m. On Express. You can hop on a holiday Saturday, come out anytime between 10 themed streetcar in either Ybor City a.m.-10 p.m. and on Sunday from 12-9 (Service begins at 3:55 p.m. and ends at p.m. During school breaks, the rink is 7:55 p.m.) or at the Whiting Station (seropen 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through vice begins at 3:25 p.m. and ends at 7:25 Saturday and 12-9 p.m. on Sunday. The p.m.) Roundtrip tickets are $5. You can rink will be open on Christmas Eve from enjoy treats, music and activities on the 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and on Christmas Day non-stop ride. The Holiday themed from 4-10 p.m. Streetcar will run on select Sundays now Hours vary for the Winter Village through Sunday, December 23. Shops. Visit You can also treat yourself to a holiwww.wintervillagetampa.com.
Volume 16, Issue 12
NYNE Productions Offers A Trio Of Victorian Carolers For Your Next Holiday Event
By Kathy L. Collins
One of the sampling of music very best things that has something about the holifor everyone. We try days is the to customize the music. Whether playlist as best as we you like traditioncan for the cusal songs or new tomer.” ones, they The Carolers always evoke come from the feelings of nosCommunity Chorus talgia. Christmas which is made up of Carolers are a anyone who likes to great way to sing. The Community hear these songs Surprise and entertain your guests with a trio Chorus will begin to of Victorian Christmas Carolers at your next meet regularly in as they were private party from NYNE Productions. The meant to be singers will regale your guests with favorite January to rehearse. Christmas songs and make you the host of They are seeking heard. NYNE the year. Productions (Not new members, espeYour Normal Entertainment) offers you cially male singers. the unique opportunity to fire a trio of This is the fourth year that Victorian Christmas Carolers to come to Scarbrough has been offering Victorian your home, business or other venue, Carolers. NYNE started as Soaring resplendent in period costumes, and sing Sounds. Over the years, they grew their at your next private party. offerings from just classical music and For just $175, a trio will sing stanbecame NYNE Productions. dards such as Hark The Herald Angel, Scarbrough said, “We will go anyLet It Snow and The 12 Days of where, at any time of the day and sing. Christmas or children’s favorites such as We have sung at private parties at the Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jingle Florida Aquarium, Dillard’s at both the Bells or Frosty the Snowman. They can Westfield Mall in Brandon and at the also sing traditional Hanukkah songs International Plaza in Tampa, and at the such as Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah and I Wyndham Grand on Clearwater Beach.” Have a Little Dreidel. The Carolers will NYNE Productions is growing. “We sing for 30 minutes. The cost is $75 for have just announced our 2019 Theatre an additional 30 minutes. Season which has some amazing shows. Joe Scarbrough with NYNE We want NYNE Productions to be the Productions said, “The Carolers are a source for live entertainment in the area.” perfect addition to any event. We have If you would like to have book the done huge events and house parties.” Victorian Carolers for your next private Scarbrough added, “We offer a good party, please call 356-8067.
December 2018
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 57
Celebrate World Traditions During Epcot International Festival Of The Holidays
Staff Report
Holiday traditions from around the world come to life at Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, featuring the new Holiday Cookie Stroll and new food and beverage at Holiday Kitchens. Through December 30, Epcot brims with holiday magic, as guests will be able to sample international seasonal delicacies, delight in live entertainment, and enjoy festive decor. Here are some of the festivities guests will enjoy: Holiday Cookie Stroll – Guests can enjoy World Showcase and purchase delicious cookies from cookie stroll locations. As they indulge in these sweet treats, they may collect stamps for each cookie. Guests who get five stamps will be rewarded with a complimentary ‘completer’ cookie and a cold glass of milk. The Holiday Cookie Stroll can be completed at guests’ leisure, with the ability to bring the passport back until December 30. Tastes At Holiday Kitchens – Guests will savor some of the most delectable holiday dishes from across the globe at 12 specialty kitchens set around World Showcase. New items this year include black forest roulade with cherry whipped cream at the Bavaria Holiday Kitchen in the Germany pavilion and sofrito-marinated beef with sweet plantains and olives at the Feast of the Three Kings Holiday Kitchen. A brand-new kitchen this year, L’Chaim!, will feature traditional Jewish dishes such as pastrami on rye, chicken and matzo ball soup, egg cream and more.
Candlelight Processional – The story of Christmas is powerfully told by a celebrity narrator accompanied by a full choir and a 50piece orchestra in a performance that inspires joy and holiday spirit. New narrators this year include Helen Hunt, Alfonso Ribeiro, Bart Millard and voice of Moana, Auli’i Cravalho. Returning favorites include Neil Patrick Harris,
Whoopi Goldberg and voice of Ariel, Jodi Benson. This elegant showcase is performed three times nightly. Candlelight Processional Dining Packages – Guests can add more magic to their holiday celebrations with a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner followed by reserved seating at a performance of the Candlelight Processional. Dining options
include some of the tastiest restaurants in Epcot and the adjacent Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. To reserve Candlelight Dining Packages, guests can call (407) WDW-DINE. Storytellers and Holiday Entertainment – Costumed performers will bring the traditions of their home countries to Epcot with holiday stories and music told around World Showcase, along with a variety of other international festive entertainment. Chip ’n Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree – Guests will join these playful chipmunks on their quest to collect ornaments for their Christmas tree. Guests may purchase a map and stickers from select merchandise locations and then travel World Showcase hunting for ornaments. A surprise is in store for those who complete the hunt! IllumiNations: Reflections Of Earth – This nighttime spectacular of fireworks, special effects, flame torches and more includes a special holiday finale through December 30. This will be the final holiday season for IllumiNations, as the show is currently scheduled to conclude at the end of summer 2019, with new thrills on World Showcase Lagoon set to debut immediately afterward. Meet Santa And Mrs. Claus – Guests can pose for a photo and share their holiday wishes while visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus at The American Adventure.
Page 58
Volume 16, Issue 12
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Charity Needs Bikes Donated For Santa’s Visit To Panhandle Area
By Amanda Boston
Pat Simmons (center with scissors) is pictured at the Valrico/FishHawk ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring the nonprofit Bikes For Christ.
Bikes For Christ puts bicycles and Bibles into the hands of those less fortunate. Founded in 2016 by local resident Patrick (Pat) Simmons, the nonprofit serves the homeless, veterans, seniors and underprivileged children. Pairing his passions for cycling and helping others, Simmons said, "I want to do this the rest of my life, providing transportation for those in need and sharing the Gospel." The recipients are striving to better their situation, and bikes provide a mode of transportation to employment, doctor appointments and more. Along with every bicycle distributed, a Bible or some other scriptural text is given to remind them that God loves and cares for them. Bikes For Christ accepts bicycles from the counties of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk and Pasco and then redistributes them through several different agencies. The organization also welcomes monetary donations, as the majority of donated bikes require maintenance, and parts are needed for repairs. With Christmas rapidly approaching,
the focus is predominately on providing bicycles for underprivileged children. This holiday season will be a bit busier for Simmons as he will also be delivering bikes to children living in the Panhandle’s Bay County in midDecember. For 38 years, Officer Mike Jones, also known as ‘Salvage Santa,’ has been repairing and gifting bikes to less fortunate children in Bay County. Unfortunately, Salvage Santa’s house and workshop were devastated after Hurricane Michael hit the Panhandle on October 10. After learning about Jones’ plight, Simmons decided to collect and deliver bikes to Bay County to ensure that Salvage Santa’s Christmas mission continues. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for Bikes For Christ on November 8 at the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. "I was extremely happy with the turn out we had for the ribbon cutting,” said Simmons. “Not only were people excited about the overall work that we do, but business owners really stepped up to offer their locations as drop off points for our holiday drive for bikes both here for the work we do in our area and to take to the Panhandle for the Salvage Santa project." Bikes For Christ is always accepting roadworthy bikes and monetary donations. If you would like to donate, please visit www.Bikes4Christ.com/donations or call 533-9177.
Brandon Ballet Will Present The 25th Annual Production Of The Nutcracker This December By Kathy L. Collins
The tumes and Brandon Ballet cast while will kick off the also being holiday season surprised by with a presentanew addition of its 25th tions,” said annual producLyndsey tion of Ladewig, Tchaikovsky’s President of holiday classic, the Brandon The Nutcracker. Ballet. There will be The leadthree performing roles are ances at The highly talented dancers of the Brandon Ballet being perwill perform The Nutcracker this December. Riverview High formed by School located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Brandon Ballet full time professional Riverview. On Saturday, December 8 a artists and guest artists. The role of performance will be held at 7:30 p.m. the Sugar Plum Fairy will be perOn Sunday, December 9 performancformed by Sarah Parry of Valrico and es will be held at 2 and 5:30 p.m. Courtney Moody of Ellenton. They will The Nutcracker tells the story of a be partnered with Brandon Ballet prolittle girl named Clara who is given the fessional artist, Julio Concepcion and gift of a wooden toy nutcracker by her returning guest artist, Anton LaMon. Uncle Drosselmeyer. The magic hap“I am proud to work with profespens when the toy soldier comes to sional artists who also lead very rich life and takes Clara on a magical jourlives with pursuits in their future occuney through an enchanted winter won- pational areas while also having a derland where she encounters dancing strong commitment to growing their snowflakes, an elegant Snow Queen professional ballet career,” said and the majestic Sugar Plum Fairy. Doricha Sales, Artistic Director. “As this marks the 25th anniverThe role of Clara is being persary of Brandon Ballet’s The formed by Mia Olivares, a 12-year-old Nutcracker, we are proud to utilize who trains five days a week with The many original parts of this non-profit Dance Center in Brandon. The role of organization’s production while adding Fritz is being performed by child guest updates to reflect this season’s entire artist, Jeloni Parks of Hudson. Parks, company. As our company has grown age 11, trains with Competitive Edge substantially from last season, audiDance Company in St. Petersburg. ences will enjoy seeing familiar To get tickets, please visit favorites throughout the sets, coswww.tututix.com/brandonballet.
l id ay s o H y p p Ha & H appy r! New Ye a
• 6 Weeks Through 12 Years • Full & Part Time Options • Open: M-F 6am to 6:30pm • Creative Curriculum for Infants & Toddlers • ABC Mouse Computer Technology • Brainwaves Curriculum • APPLE Accreditation • STEAM Curriculum • Security Code Access Entry • FREE Internet Viewing of Your Child’s Day • Outdoor Playgrounds with Water Park • Before & After School Care: 6-12 Years
Stowers, Valrico Academy, FishHawk Creek, Bevis, Lithia Springs, Alafia, Cimino, and Foundation Christian
• Nutritious Meals & Snacks: Low Salt & Sugar • Trained Professional Staff, Certified in First Aid & CPR • Extracurricular Programs
FREE Part Time VPK Program with “Pay for rest of day” Option • Accelerated Pre-K Curriculum with Math, Science, Spanish, Music, Sign Language & More • Preparation for National Kindergarten Standards • Must be 4 years old by September 1, 2018 • Must be Florida resident • Class times: Tuesday - Friday, 8:15am - 12:00pm
CIRCA FISHHAWK 8136547000
VALRICO 8136576200
(Located next to Stowers Elementary and Mosaic)
(Located across fromLithia Springs Elementary)
Lic # CHC432384
Lic # CHC431024
5815 Kids Crossing Drive
www.KRKCirca.com
4321 Lynx Paw Trail
www.KRKValrico.com
December 2018
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Page 59
Celebrate The New Year And Ring In 2019 All Over Tampa Bay New Year’s Eve is time for reflection and revelry, but in the end, everyone wants to have fun ringing in the New Year. This year say goodbye to 2018 and hello to 2019 by experiencing some of the great events happening in Tampa Bay. This is just a sampling of what you can do this New Year’s Eve. Take the children to the Kid’s New Year’s Eve 12 Noon Balloon Drop at the Armature Works from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This family friendly, free event will be held in the courtyard and will feature Spheres Bubbles, a magic show and a balloon drop countdown. For more information, please visit https://tinyurl.com/y83u4kpy Adults can enjoy the New Year’s Eve 2019 Gala at the Armature Works in The Gathering. You can dance to a live band and a DJ, enjoy Top Shelf open bar, a wide selection of late night hors d’oeuvres as well as a champagne bar. Enjoy a midnight toast as you watch fireworks. The cost to attend is $165 per person. The gala is from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. For more information, please visit www.AWNYE.com. The Armature Works is located at 1910 N. Ola Ave. in Tampa. Busch Gardens is a great place to ring in the New Year with music, fireworks and thrilling rides. The park will be open until 1 a.m. Admission to the New Year’s Eve celebration is
By Kathy L. Collins
There are lots of options for residents to choose from to ring in the New Year! You can select an elegant gala at the Armature Works, thrilling rides at Busch Gardens or an Austin Powers themed night at the Tampa Theatre. The choice is yours!
included with the paid admission. Busch Gardens is located at10165 McKinley Dr. in Tampa. For more information, please visit www.buschgardens.com. If you want to be out on the water in Tampa Bay, there are several options. Pirate Water Taxi is offering a New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise The one-hour cruise includes champagne and party favors. You will also get prime viewing of the downtown Tampa fireworks display. The cruise time is 11:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. and the cruise departs from the Tampa Convention Center (home dock stop #7). The cost is $49.95 plus tax for adults and $39.95 plus tax for children 4 to 12 years old. You also get a boarding photo. For more information, please visit www.piratewatertaxi.com. Adults can enjoy dinner and dancing on either a two-hour ($149.95 plus
Must start treatment by 12/31/18. Valid to new patients only.
fees and taxes) or a three-hour ($199.95 plus fees and taxes) cruise. Both feature dinner, party favors and a midnight fireworks show. Check out the Tampa VIP New Year’s Eve Cruise on Yacht Star Ship. For more information, please visit www.yachtstarship.com. The Tampa Theatre will hold its 3rd Annual NYE Wrap Party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Jill Witecki with the Tampa Theatre said, “Join Dr. Evil and Mr. Bigglesworth for heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, live music and dancing.” You can watch the ball drop live on the big screen at midnight. There is an open beer and wine bar and a cash bar featuring Austin Powers themed cocktails. The cost to attend is $99 for general admission and $89 for Tampa Theatre members. For more information, please visit www.http://tampatheatre.org/annualevent/nye-wrap-party/. The Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium in Brandon is hosting a No
Jacket Required New Year’s Eve Celebration at 6 p.m. Chef Dave will prepare gourmet dishes before your eyes as you sip wine throughout the evening. The cost is $110 per person and wine and champagne are included. The Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. For more information, please visit www.rollinpinonline.com or call 653-2418. Top Golf, located at 10690 Palm Ave. in Tampa, is holding a party featuring live entertainment, a chefinspired menu and a midnight celebration. You will also get party favors to help ring in the New Year. You can enjoy unlimited game play from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. and enjoy a midnight fireworks display. To reserve a bay for up to six guests, the cost is $225 excluding food and beverages. You can upgrade to VIP status for $450. Bays are limited, so you are encouraged to reserve early by visiting www.topgolf.com.
Page 60
Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition
Volume 16, Issue 12