Bloomingdale/FishHawk
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Two Local High Schools, Bloomingdale & Newsome Host Relay For Life Events
By Kate Quesada
Relay for Life events raising money for the American Cancer Society are taking place at Newsome and Bloomingdale high schools next month.
event. The Bloomingdale relay will use cartoons and fairy tales to ‘Make the Fairytale of a Cure Come True,’ and Newsome attendees will have a ‘Battle of the Bands’ while raising funds. One highlight of the event is the Luminaria Ceremony that typically starts at 9 p.m. and showcases luminaria bags lit in memory or in honor of loved ones. “It is a very moving ceremony where we turn the stadium lights off and hold a silent lap,” said Schneider. “The luminary bags can be purchased online or the day of the event for a donation.” Bloomingdale’s event will take place at the school’s track, located at 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, from 6 p.m. April 6 to 6 a.m. April 7. Newsome High School, located at 16550 FishHawk Blvd., is one of the few 18 hour Heritage Events and will start at 12 Noon on Saturday, April 14 and end at 6 a.m., Sunday April 15. Sign up to participate in either event at www.relayforlife.org. For more information, contact Schneider at 319-5920.
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Lithia Water Treatment Plant, County’s Largest, Wins Awards
By Kate Quesada
The Lithia Water Treatment Plant added another award to its accreditations recently when it was recognized by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (D.E.P.). The plant was one of 14 facilities state wide presented with the 2017 Plant Operations Excellence Award which is given annually to domestic wastewater and drinking water facilities that demonstrate The team at the Lithia Water Treatment Plant excellence in operation, mainterecently received the 2017 Plant Operations nance, innovative treatment, Excellence Award from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. waste education, pollution pre“The award exemplifies our excelvention, recycling or other achievements. lence of operations, dedication to water “It’s important to us that the dedicaquality and the passion of our leadership tion and commitment to excellence team,” said Lehigh. “Working together, we shown by these plant operators is celecontinually strive to produce the best brated,” said D.E.P. Assistant Director quality water available for our customers.” Kelley Boatwright. “Florida depends on The Florida D.E.P. was created to clean water, so we are excited to work protect, conserve and manage the state’s alongside these leading utilities and the environment and natural resources. The communities they serve.” department enforces federal and state The awards recognize facilities that environmental laws, protects Florida’s air demonstrate a special commitment to and water quality, cleans up pollution and excellence in management through dedimaintains a state-wide system of parks, cated professionalism and that have an and preserves. impeccable history of record keeping The Lithia Water Treatment Plant is compliance. located at 5402 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. “It is a humbling honor for our team to win the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s highest award for water operations,” said Hillsborough In This County Public Utilities Section Manager Issue Mark Lehigh. “It recognizes our continued commitment to our customers and the community.” SOLES SHAPING SOULS......................PG 3 The Lithia plant distributes an averHOA HOT TOPICS ...............................PG 7 age of 30.25 million gallons of water per day to more than 390,000 residents LOCAL DJ AT SUPER BOWL...............PG 10 throughout the south and central portions ECHO JOB FAIR.................................PG 15 of the county. The largest water treatment facility owned by Hillsborough County, the EYE ON BUSINESS ....................PGS 25‐26 plant has four water storage tanks on site, SPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 32‐33 each holding five million gallons of treated water, about the same amount of water ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT................PG 41 as 1,000 swimming pools. SUMMER CAMP PULLOUT........PGS 45‐56 Since beginning its operations in 1988, the plant has undergone multiple READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE renovations to keep up with the water www.ospreyobserver.com demand and has won 14 awards, including the D.E.P. recognition, since 2015.
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Bloomingdale and Newsome high schools are inviting community members to join them in fighting cancer next month at their annual Relay For Life events. On Friday, April 6 at 6 p.m., students and community members will join teams at Bloomingdale High School to walk, camp overnight and participate in other activities to raise funds for the American Cancer Society (ACS), while the relay at Newsome High School, with similar events, will take place on Saturday, April 14. “Relay For Life is ACS’s largest fundraising movement,” said Samantha Schneider, ACS Community Development Manager. Thirty-five teams, with between five and 25 members, are signed up to participate in the Bloomingdale event and 50 teams in the Newsome event, with participants ranging from children to 75 year olds. The fundraising goal for the Bloomingdale event is $78,000, as participants raised $77,000 last year, and the goal for the Newsome relay is $195,000, the same amount raised at the event last year when participants surpassed their goal of $175,000. “Relay For Life provides an outlet for individuals touched by cancer to feel that they are not alone, whether the disease has affected them or a loved one,” said Schneider. “The fact that participants walk throughout the night makes us a unique event that resembles the fact that cancer never sleeps and neither do we at our 12, 15 or 18 hour events,” said Schneider. Each event has a theme which participants use for costumes, fundraising games and items, decorations for their camp sites and themed laps during the
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April 2018 Volume 17, Issue 4 Ph: 657-2418
53
LITHIA
On Sunday, April 29, a Ten Year Celebration of Life Fundraiser & Memoir Reveal will take place at the FWC Tampa Woman’s Club to celebrate and honor Queena’s accomplishments and continuing journey of healing. See Full Story Page 4.
Serving Our Customers in 4 Locations: Lithia • Big Bend, Riverview • 301, Riverview • Sun City Center
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Student Gives Back To Community, One ‘Sole’ At A Time
By Amy Schechter
Camden Grant looks like your that they began to fall ordinary 8th grader at apart. That day she Randall went home to her Middle mother, Laurie School, Champagneexcept she Bumberg, and after is anything brainstorming but ordinary. ideas, they came Her school is up with Soles a huge proShaping Souls. ponent of Soles service learnShaping Souls is ing projects, a donation drive and on aimed at gainRandall’s annuing funding to al service learnprovide each ing day in student at January, she had Booker T. le all Midd er. d n a the opportunity to Washington R at niz grader g Souls Orga their th 8 t, e n attend Booker T. Elementary v hapin n G ra ts ha Camde is the Soles Sentary studenthe summer. Washington a “brand School ns help elem akers before o e ti n Elementary new pair of ‘soles’ a s f Don n pair o (BTWE) for a day of very ow before summer break, so that their volunteering. ‘souls’ can She went in run, jump, with the and play all game plan to summer.” teach a readGrant has ing lesson, partnered but she came with BTWE out with an and Randall’s idea to make Parent a lasting Teacher impression Student on her comAssociation in munity. addition to Grant setting up a said, “I could GoFundMe tell how spepage in order cial this to reach her opportunity goal of prowas to them. viding shoes They had big for all stusmiles on dents. She their faces, plans to visit but I couldn’t the school in help notice April to create that these a sign up for kids gender and deserved shoe sizes in more than order to have an accurate picture of just one day student needs. of my time.” Corporate sponsorships, commuNinety-nine nity donations of new shoes, or any percent of gift are welcome and appreciated. BTWE stuFor more information, reach out via dents are on free or reduced lunch, email to SolesShapingSouls@yahoo.com which indicates that families may or visit them on Instagram struggle financially. Grant noticed @SolesShapingSouls. To make a many of them wearing shoes that donation, visit the GoFundMe Page: didn’t fit properly or seemed to have www.gofundme.com/soles-shapingbeen handed down so many times souls.
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‘Golf for Kids’ Charity Tournament Returns To Bloomingdale Golf Club
Staff Report
The National 300 members in the Association of Tampa area. Advisors Insurance and serve Main Street Financial America through long Advisors (NAIFA) term relationships proand The viding risk management, Epilepsy wealth accumulation, Services and retirement advice. Foundation have The Charity Golf announced that Classic will take place at they will hold the Bloomingdale Golfers 30th anniversary Club, 4113 Great Golfers charity golf tourPlace in Valrico. nament at Registration and lunch begins at 11:30 a.m. with Bloomingdale Shotgun Start at 1 p.m. Golf Club beginand Dinner follows play at ning at 1 p.m. on NAIFA The p.m. 5:30 Friday April 27. Epilepsy Services Foundation will host its 30th The cost is $100 per NAIFA Golf Tournament on Friday, April golfer or $360 for a fourTampa President Charity 27 at Bloomingdale Golf Club. some. Fees include and Bloomingdale resident Tom Brophy stated, “We are very lunch, dinner, prizes and one compleproud of our long association with the mentary greens fee at one of seven Epilepsy Foundation and its mission to championship courses and more, along serve children in the Tampa Bay area with sports, restaurant & entertainment afflicted with epilepsy. Thanks to local raffle prizes: Disney tickets, SeaWorld community support, last year’s tournatickets,Tampa Bay Rays game tickets, ment was such a great success we are family portraits, Jackson’s Bistro, golf pleased to be returning to Bloomingdale gear and many more. Sponsorships and for our 30-year anniversary event”. donations for event bags or raffles are The Epilepsy Foundation is the only also appreciated. organization of its kind to focus strictly on For information, contact: Tom Orth the needs of the over 16,000 children and Director Epilepsy Services Foundation at young adults with epilepsy in the greater 374-8907 or torth@epilepsysf.org or Tampa Bay area. Funds raised are used Chris Bruser – NAIFA Tampa Special to send children and their families to Paul Events Chairman at 857-4565 or Newman’s Boggy Creek Camp for a cbruser@rfslends.com or online at week under medical supervision. http://epilepsysf.org/golf-for-kids/. NAIFA is the oldest and largest proContributions may be tax deductible, confessional association of its kind with over sult your tax professional.
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Page 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Explore Florida Wildlife At Nature’s Classroom Community Open House
Ten Year Celebration Of Life Fundraiser Celebrates Queena’s Journey
The words “field animal experiences, trip” evoke celebrahikes, a shoreline tion in classrooms sampling event, and everywhere; howevexhibitors. Bell er, there is perhaps Shoals Baptist nothing more magical Academy teacher, than a field trip to Rachel Larsen Reger, knows you do Nature’s Classroom. not want to miss it: Every Hillsborough “Nature’s classroom County 6th grade in hands-on learning, public school student actually seeing gets to enjoy three Nature's Classroom, wildlife sanctuary, nature, and learning consecutive days of opens to public April 28. how to identify and exploration as part of respect the beauty all around. On-site their science curriculum. Students never teachers tour, teach, and tell tales that forget the memorable experience of hikcan’t be taught in the traditional classing through Florida’s hardwood hamroom. While there I’ve scooped micromocks and wetlands, handling small animals like snakes and mice in the interpre- scopic organisms from the water and studied them, walked the boardwalk over tive center, and observing nature as they the wetlands and learned the lay of the boat down the Hillsborough River. land” Hillsborough Virtual School science Gate entry is $10 per carload with teacher, Leah Shaffer, has seen firsthand boat rides costing $2 per person. Food how wonderful this experience is for chiltrucks and a silent auction will be on site, dren: “Nature's Classroom is a unique, and please note this is a cash only event. immersive experience, creating a longNo ATMs are on site, so please prepare lasting impact on any students who accordingly. Please no mini-buses, coolattend. Through interactive experiences ers, or pets. that focus on a variety of topics and skills Volunteers are also welcome and aligned to the state standards, Nature's needed. School aged students may volClassroom teachers and staff help stuunteer as long as they are accompanied dents learn in a way that very few other by adult chaperones. Volunteer hours are programs can.” Since 2007, this gem opens its doors 8 a.m.- 1 p.m., 12 noon - 4 p.m., or all day (8 a.m.- 4 p.m.). To volunteer, contact to the larger community as a schoolwide fundraiser one day a year. This year, they Jennifer Boroff at Jennifer.Boroff@sdhc.k12.fl.us or call will open April 28 from 9 a.m- 3 p.m. Many of the same activities 6th grade stu- 987-6969. Nature's Classroom is located at 13100 Verges Rd., Thonotosassa, dents experience will be available for the entire family including: children's activities, 33592.
In April 2008, a to1@gmail.com or at www.joinyoung woman, forqueena.com/contact/. To donate merly known as the funds towards the cost of the Bloomingdale Library fundraiser, make checks Attack Survivor, was payable to Hope Heals The brutally raped, beaten Brain Inc (subject line: The and left to die outside Story Lives On) or at www.joinqueena.com/donate/. of the Bloomingdale The Ten Year Celebration Regional Library. of Life Fundraiser & Memoir Over the last 10 Reveal will be held on Sunday, years, the community April 29, 2018 at 1 p.m. at the has followed GFWC Tampa Woman's Club. Queena’s story. “There is much to be celeInitially identified as brated: 10 years of ongoing a victim following the On Sunday, April 29, a Ten Year Celebration therapies, battling for justice in brutal attack at the of Life Fundraiser & Memoir Bloomingdale Library, Reveal will take place at the the courtroom, fighting for medQueena has turned FWC Tampa Woman’s Club to ical benefits, raising funds, volinto a beacon of hope celebrate and honor Queena’s unteering,” noted Donato. accomplishments and continuMoney raised at this celeto her supporters and ing journey of healing. bration event will be donated to followers and she is 501c3 non-profit organization Hope Heals now referred to as a survivor. The Brain Inc. and Queena’s Medical A decade later, she still works tireTrust Fund. lessly in daily therapy sessions to regain Queena’s mother has been workthe life she once knew. ing on a very special project: HOPE – On Sunday, April 29, Queena will The Anchor for my Soul; A Mother's take a break from therapy to celebrate Memoir of Faith, Love and with the community, the JoinQueena team is looking for sponsors or donations Forgiveness. The memoir is centered on Queena's attack and the events for the event including food and beverwhich followed, but will take readers ages, live entertainment, bar service, through her mother’s view of childhood silent auction items and volunteers. in Vietnam and her journey to the "This is an extra special event United States. because it honors a huge accomplishQueena’s attacker, Kendrick Morris, ment not just for Queena, but for everywas found guilty on all counts and senone who has found their place in her story over the last 10 years,” said her sis- tenced to 65 years in prison in 2010. In March 2017, he was re-sentenced ter Anna Donato. to life in prison. Follow Queena’s Sponsorship and donation inquiries progress at JoinQueena.com. should be directed to Donato at avdona-
By Amy Schechter
Staff Report
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Brandon Chamber Hosts Taste Of Brandon At Westfield Mall
W W W
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O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R
Dr. Amir Boules
C O M
FOLLOW US:
By Kate Quesada
Are you for the community.” looking for a new Restaurants will serve favorite restautwo to three ounce samples rant or a chance of signature menu items to try a different and guests will have the dish from one of opportunity to try these your favorite samples and then vote for the restaurants with the places? The best tastings, spirits and Taste of desserts. Brandon, in its “The event is all about 24th year, will bringing families together take place at the and fostering a sense of Westfield The 24th Taste of Brandon event, community,” said Lewis. Brandon Mall on hosted by the Greater Brandon Saturday, April Chamber of Commerce, will take place “We want all ages to at Westfield Brandon Mall on attend.” 21 from 1-5 p.m. Saturday, April 21 from 1-5 p.m. Wristband tickets to offering samples event can be purchased from from some of the local non-profit groups or at the area’s most popular Chamber of Commerce. restaurants giving resWristbands are $20 for adults idents the chance to and children older than nine, try many different $5 for children three to eight dishes in one place. and children two and under are “The Taste of free. Brandon will feature In addition to food, music restaurants providing and entertainment, the event menu samples along will also host a vendor area including with a fun filled family atmosphere with exhibitors from area non-profit and formusic and activities for all,” said Rick profit businesses. Lewis, Greater Brandon Chamber of “The mission of the Taste of Brandon Commerce President and C.E.O. is to provide the greater Brandon area The Chamber has been hosting the with a signature event that brings families event since 1994 at locations throughout together and fosters a sense of communithe area. This is the first time the event ty,” said Lewis. will be held at the Westfield Mall, starting For more information about the event outside of The Cheesecake Factory, benand to purchase tickets, visit www.branefitting local non-profit groups. “This year’s format is very different in donchamber.com or call 689-1221. Westfield Brandon Mall is located at 459 that this event no longer serves the Brandon Town Center Dr. chamber,” said Lewis. “It is now hosted
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Rezoning Of Former St. Stephen Property Could Bring Asst. Living Community
By Sharon Still
Site plan of the proposed redevelopment of the old St. Stephen Church.
The Diocese of St. Petersburg is currently in the negotiating stages to sell the site of the former St. Stephen’s Catholic Church, located at 5049 Bell Shoals Rd. to Bridgepoint Lifecare Group. Plans call for redevelopment of the site into a new style of assisted living for seniors that focuses on freedom, comfort, convenience, and affordability. Plans for the assisted living facility call for one- and two-story villa homes, three-story residences, a building for those with special needs, a building for memory care as well as a resort pool with cabana and town center. Brian Bokor, who identifies himself as a concerned citizen, said, “I keep myself on the pulse of the community and there clearly are two sides to this issue.” He explains that the people that live in the neighboring subdivisions are opposed to the plan because of traffic, noise and other issues.
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“There is a lot of opposition from local residents but a lot of support from the people from the church,” he added. While Bokor said that he is not on either side of the issue, he as well as many people who signed the petition referenced below pointed out that the alternative to an assisted living facility could turn out to be something that creates much more noise and traffic. “What is the option if it doesn’t go through,” he mentioned. A rezoning hearing (RZ-PD 180100 BR), originally scheduled for February, is being continued by the applicant and will be held on April 16. Proponents of the plan are asking for community members to sign a petition in support of this redevelopment to present at the Zoning Hearing Master Hearing. The petition can be found at www.thepetitionsite.com/512/198/810/ help-st.-stephen-catholic-church-sellthe-bell-shoals-property/.
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April 2018
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
By Kate Quesada Garage Sale, Market Day And Food Trucks Hit FishHawk Ranch place on Sunday, April 8, the second Sunday of the month, rather than the first Sunday of the month as usual, in observance of the Easter holiday. The market, featuring many local food and craft booths, runs from 9 a.m.-2
FishHawk Garage Sale Scheduled
Start cleaning out those garages, closets and playrooms! The FishHawk Ranch Spring Garage Sale will take place on Saturday, April 14 from 8 a.m.-12 Noon throughout FishHawk Ranch in Lithia. Hundreds of homes throughout the community participate in the semi-annual event. Donation trucks from Goodwill Suncoast Industries and Lighthouse Gospel Ministries will be at Park Square, Hawk Park and The Osprey Club from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. for donations. The Shred Truck will also be at Park Square from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Residents should note that many of the parking spaces in the Osprey Club overflow parking lot will be caution taped off on Thursday April 12, after school dismissal in preparation for the donation trucks to arrive Friday morning. The trucks will leave on Saturday afternoon. For more information, call 657-6629 or visit www.fishhawkconnect.com.
Market Day Date Moved
The April Market Day, held at Park Square in FishHawk Ranch, will take
p.m. Call 657-6629 for more information.
Mark Your Calendars For FishHawk’s Food Truck Rally
From 5-9 p.m. on Saturday, May 19, FishHawk Ranch will host 15 food trucks offering unique food items in the Osprey Club parking lot. The event will be put on by Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally which has thrown dozens of events to date, specializing in rallies, lunch spots and catering. Parking for the event will be available across the street at Bevis Elementary, but patrons are encouraged to walk or bike if possible. Lawn chairs and picnic blankets are welcome as seating is available on a first come, first served basis. For more information on Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally, visit www.tampabayfoodtruckrally.com. Contact the Osprey Club at 657-6629.
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Page 8
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Monument Finds Home At Private Brandon Cemetery With Confederate Ties
Tessera Of Brandon Prepares To Welcome Residents
The Brandon endorsed by key chapters of the Family Cemetery, a United Daughters of the Confederacy as well as the quiet, privately-owned Brandon family. The Brandon famfamily cemetery, callily has a track record of working ing five generations of with both the United Daughters of founding area families the Confederacy and the Sons of home, located on the corner of Brandon Confederate Veterans in their misBlvd. and Lithia sion of remembering Confederate Pinecrest Rd., is the military personnel and history. new home of a 107Some members of the commission stipulated that private year-old Confederate funds must be used and had to monument. Photo Credit Nancy Nahas be raised within 30 days to have Hillsborough County Memoria In Aeterna is a Commissioners voted 106-year-old monument. the statue moved. The financial 4-2 last summer to The Confederate soldier goal of $150,000 was met in just (left) is facing south and one day. relocate it from the the Union Soldier is facing The statue was commiscounty courthouse north. sioned in 1911 by the United after issues were Daughters of the Confederacy raised about the statand the Sons of Confederate ue being located on Veterans. The Confederate public county property. Battle Flag is depicted on the According to front of the monument, and the County Commissioner dates 1861 to 1865 refer to the Stacy White, the decibeginning and ending of the war sion was made to between the states. The poem move the monument inscribed on the east side was to the Brandon Family written by Sister Esther Carlotta, Cemetery, where the a Roman Catholic nun. founder of Brandon, According to the historical John Brandon, and marker that accompanied the generations of family monument, the soldier facing after him, is buried north has been interpreted as and members of the the determined warrior facing family, who served in the invader at the beginning of the Confederate milithe war, while the soldier facing tary forces, are buried south is viewed as a young soldier returnthere. There is also an existing ing home from conflict in a tattered uniConfederate memorial on the site. form, wounded but not forgotten. According to White, this option was
The spacious apartments have Valeo, Latin for ‘to thrive,’ focuses been constructed, the landscaping specifically on wellness initiatives for installed and the team trained, all those with memory impairments and ahead of the opening of Tessera of incorporates components that examine Brandon, a state-of-the-art assisted livresidents’ social, intellectual, spiritual ing and and physical memory well-being. care comExamples munity situValeo initiaated in the tives include heart of Tessera of Brandon will open its doors and welcome its first a program Brandon. to assist residents this month. Located at 1320 Oakfield Dr., memory care residents reminisce about Tessera of Brandon is a multi-story, what they have accomplished in their bright and energetic community featurlifetime. ing 89 studio, one and two-bedroom “Our goal is to have residents live assisted living apartments in addition to to their full potential and our programs 49 memory care suites. exist to make that possible,” said Amenities at Tessera of Brandon, Tessera of Brandon’s general manager which seems more like a posh hotel Brooke Britton. than an assisted living community, As an example of its holistic include multiple dining venues with allapproach to wellness, Fido is a welday dining from 7 a.m.–7 p.m., a coffee come guest at the community. “Our and juice bar, library and event center, chef will be making fresh dog biscuits fitness gym, hair salon, outdoor fire pit, for our furry friends,” said general mangardens and fitness paths, bocce ball ager Brooke Britton. court, weekly housekeeping, personal A grand opening is slated for April laundry services and 24-hour health 26 from 4 p.m.–7 p.m. and will include monitoring. Scheduled transportation tours of the community and live enterservices are available for excursions, tainment. shopping, medical appointments and “We’re ready to open our doors to day trips. residents and become a part of the At the heart of its management community,” said Britton. services are Solvere Senior Living’s Most apartments have been proprietary wellness philosophies reserved but there is still space availSalus™ and Valeo™. Salus, Latin for able, in both the assisted living and ‘well-being,’ is a holistic approach that memory care areas. focuses on each resident’s potential to For information about Tessera of achieve his or her personal goals Brandon call its sales office at 607through engagement and connection. 6880 or visit www.tesserabrandon.com.
By Nick Nahas
Estate Planning Wills & Trusts Powers of Attorney Guardianship Probate
By Michelle Caceres
April 2018
Page 9
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Family Music Connection Brings Music Together To FishHawk
By Kate Quesada
Budding musicians an illustrated song book, will have a new place to music CD/download code get their start this month and other print and online when Family Music resources to continue the Connection begins offering music-making at home or classes at Kidtopia in in the car. Lithia. “There is no previous The mixed-age classmusical experience es, taught by Family Music required, just a willingness Connection Director to get down on the floor Tausha Honey, will and get silly with your introduce children child,” said Honey, a from birth to five Valrico resident with years old to music three young boys of using the popular her own. Music Together curMusic Together, riculum. which started introduc“There are lots of ing children to music group activities for in 1987, is based on Family Music Connection will start offerkids out there, but the recognition that all ing Music Together classes, led by Music Together offers Tausha Honey, at Kidtopia on April 7. children are musical a true family music class for the youngest and can learn to sing in tune, keep a beat infant to the oldest great-grandparent and and participate with confidence. everyone in between,” said Honey, who Family Music Connection classes will also teaches music at Colleen Bevis take place at Kidtopia, an indoor play Elementary School in Lithia. “I have space and tutoring center which recently always been passionate about early child- opened its doors on FishHawk Blvd. hood music and movement as well as the “The music classes are a great fit at importance of families connecting with Kidtopia because we are all about play, one another through common interests. party and learn,” said Kidtopia Owner, Music Together classes offer the perfect Susan Clark. “The curriculum Music marriage of these two passions.” Together offers is a perfect avenue for The Spring semester classes will kids to learn and explore music.” start on Saturday, April 7 and will include For info on classes or to attend a free eight weekly sessions of 45 minutes demo class, contact Honey at each. According to Honey, the classes will tausha@me.com or 220-6945 or visit be led in singing, dancing and playing www.familymusicconnection.com. songs ranging from lullabies to boisterous Kidtopia is located at 15276 FishHawk jams using child-friendly percussion Blvd. in Lithia and can be contacted at instruments. Registered families receive 548-1062.
David Weekley Homes Partners With St. Baldrick’s Foundation For Resident Appreciation David Weekley Homes, the nation’s largest privately-held builder, is celebrating its residents in Encore at FishHawk Ranch with month-long homeowner appreciation events, culminating with a head-shaving event on Saturday, April 21, benefitting the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. Encore at FishHawk Ranch is a 55+ lifestyle community within the master-planned FishHawk Ranch. The St. Baldrick’s Foundation is a volunteer and donor powered charity committed to supporting the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers and give survivors long and healthy lives. Trisha Primiano, Sales Hostess at Encore said, “We decided to do the St. Baldrick's foundation fundraiser as our project's CARE event because of a resident named Trish Duncan. Trish came to talk to me in early fall to see if we could undertake this fundraiser to conquer childhood cancer.” Duncan, a retired teacher, was very close to two students who died of cancer, and this St. Baldrick's event will be her sixth time to be a shavee, once again going bald to raise monies for a cause dear to her heart. According to Duncan, "Children are our future, we need to do all we can to guarantee they reach their potentials as adults; one head at a time".
Staff Report
Homeowners within the community are invited to participate in the second annual flamingo decorating contest and other events, concluding with the fundraiser for St. Baldrick’s. Encore by David Weekley Homes set a fundraising goal of $5,000 to donate toward pediatric cancer research. This bold act of baldness has gained major momentum since its start in 2000. Now, it is your chance to make a difference in a fun and meaningful way. The month-long events are an initiative of the company’s CARE program, a charitable and volunteer program that joins team members, homeowners, homebuyers and community partners with nonprofits to make a positive impact in the lives of everyone it touches and in all the communities it builds through its purpose, Building Dreams, Enhancing Lives. This is accomplished by company team members volunteering countless hours to different organizations in their communities and by The David Weekley Family Foundation donating more than $100 million to a variety of organizations through the U.S. and abroad over the past 20 years. For information about David Weekley Homes, visit www.davidweekleyhomes.com. For information, call 422-6175 or email tprimiano@dwhomes.com.
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Page 10
Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Natural Talent And A Love Of Music Has Propelled Local DJ To Prominence By Kathy L. Collins
Dela Cruz said of When Jake the experience, “I Dela Cruz, a junior was able to get a picat Newsome High ture with the Vince School, was just Lombardi Trophy. seven years old, he decided that he Unfortunately, I was wanted to become not able to go to the game, but I am very a DJ. Now, at just grateful for the expe16 years old, Jake rience.” has performed at Dela Cruz has some of the counplayed at many try’s biggest FishHawk resident and Newsome HS stumajor events in the events, including dent, DJ Jake Dela Cruz has had many great experiences as DJ including the NFL area including preSuper Bowl LII in Store at the Super Bowl LII Experience in Minneapolis. Minneapolis. His energy and natural talent game entertainment Dela Cruz is an make DJ Jake Dela Cruz a sought after per- for the Tampa Bay former. Lightning with the Open Format Mix Streetlaced Marketing & Promotions DJ. Dela Cruz explained, “A mix DJ takes Team, he has opened for groups such as a list of songs and musically combines and rearranges them to form one continu- Sugar Hill Gang, Rob Base and KapG and Lil Pump and he performed the preous track. As an Open Format Mix DJ, I can play music from all music genres from show for the 93.3FLZ JingleBall concert Top 40, Hip Hop, Rock to EDM (Electronic for several years. Dela Cruz also donates his performDance Music). This allows me to be more ance time to groups including FishHawk versatile and have the opportunity to play Relay For Life, The Children’s Cancer for many different events.” Center and the American Cancer Society. Dela Cruz runs his own mobile DJ Dela Cruz said, “Music is a common business and is a part of DJ Fresh bond that brings most people together. Events. Dela Cruz’ mentor, Doug Hensel aka DJ Fresh invited him to perform at the You may not come from the same place or share the same views, but when the NFL Store at the Super Bowl Experience. new song comes on, you know, the one Dela Cruz said, “The crowd was a mix of that everyone is singing, all of a sudden it Patriots and Eagles fans. Approximately is like magic.” 125,000 people came through the You can hear DJ Jake Dela Cruz on Minneapolis Convention Center over the his show Audio Mix Therapy on Evolution three days I was there.” Dela Cruz met 93.3 HD Radio and on the iHeartRadio many celebrities including Comedian App every Saturday from 7 to 8 p.m. Kevin Hart, NFL Commissioner Roger For info call 489-9277 or email Goodelll and NFL Hall of Famer, Cris djjakedelacruz@gmail.com. Carter.
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Page 11
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Local Author Pens Out of the Ordinary Fiction With Award-Winning Series
Staff Report
Kat Heckenbach, about her heritage. home school mom and Simone wants only to be author of the award-winnormal, and falls in love ning young adult fantasy with a human man, series, Toch Island Reese, but soon realizes Chronicles, is not your their relationship will only typical Christian fiction end in heartache, and things become more writer. Heckenbach writes complicated after she speculative fiction—fantaleaves and realizes she sy, science fiction, horror, is pregnant with his child. dystopian and even a Heckenbach is a touch of steampunk. Her graduate of the stories reflect her faith University of Tampa; and worldview, but are receiving a Bachelor of rarely overt. Christian Local author, Kat Heckenbach, Science in Biology themes often run deep pens young adult fantasy book. (magna cum laude) in under the narrative, or 1997. Her art and science backgrounds rise subtly near the surface, but rarely break through completely. She works with come through in her writing as well. She is currently president of Brandon symbolism and allegory in her stories of Christian Writers, a local group that meets magic teens on an isolated island with at St. Andrews United Methodist Church dragons, a talking beetle, and an Elven at 7 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each rocker. Her science fiction generally has no more than hints, reflecting instead sim- month. She is also Membership Chair for ple Christian principles, such as kindness, the Tampa chapter of the National forgiveness, and taking care of those who League of American Pen Women, a group for professional women artists, writneed help. Oddly, the clearest themes ers, and musicians. And once a year in arise in her darker works, which is true of October, you can find her lurking about at her latest release, Relent. the Necronomicon, a Tampa-based sciRelent is categorized as paranormal ence fiction, fantasy, and gaming convenromance, although Heckenbach tion where she participates in writing pandescribes it as "a theologically murky, els, and displays and sells her paintings, dark inspirational paranormal romance" mixed media, and handmade wands in focusing more on the paranormal/superthe art gallery. natural and less on the romance. She Find Heckenbach's novels in print challenges readers to provide a better and ebook on Amazon.com and description for a story about Simone, the BarnesandNoble.com. Follow her on product of an angel-human union, who Facebook (KatHeckenbachAuthor) or becomes best friends with a demon Instagram( Katheckenbach). named Wraith after he tells her the truth
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Page 12
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
FishHawk Author, Follows Passion, Pens Second Fictional Novel
Boulevard Salon A One-Stop Shop For Beauty, Conversation & Pampering
Writing novels died at the is a lifelong dream hands of a for FishHawk resimalicious entident Rodney ty. With the Wetzel. As fate help of parahad it, his dream psychologist was truly born out Dr. Timothy of a life-changing Huffman, they tragedy. In 1995, must unravel Wetzel was the secret of involved in a nearLord fatal car accident Banthom. when his car was Banthom FishHawk resident and author Rodney Wetzel struck by a drunk recently released his second book Banthom. He is was a sevendriver. As a form of currently writing his third novel, to be published teenth centunext year. Banthom is available for purchase at ry witch and self-rehabilitation Barnes and Noble and amazon.com. Rodney started world working on his first novel. renowned Satanist. Their investigation “This tragedy left Rodney in the takes a sinister turn when they discover hospital for a week with a long recovevil forces stronger than they could ery,” said Connie, his wife of 28-yrs. have imagined. “Due to his injures Rodney had difficulty This battle between the righteous getting out of the house, so that is and wicked unfolds across two contiwhen he started writing Fritz.” nents with the fate of the entire human The book sat on the shelf for a race hanging in the balance. number of years until his wife and chilWetzel is currently working on his dren encouraged Wetzel to publish it in third book, Bobby’s Cage, which is 2016. Once published, Fritz did very scheduled to be released in early 2019. well and he was urged to write the “Bobby’s Cage takes place in sequel, Banthom, which he completed Dublin and then Florida, specifically our this earlier year. local areas of Riverview, Brandon and His new book, Banthom, will keep Gibsonton,” said Wetzel. readers on the edge of their seats with Banthom is available for purchase its page-turner, thriller plot and twists. In on www.amazon.com as well as severthe book, lead characters Phillip Parker al other outlets. Wetzel was recently and Franky Lake are college professors featured at a book signing in March at from small-town Michigan, and yet, Barnes and Noble in the Brandon Town their lives take a dark turn when they Center. For more information, you can head to Dublin, Ireland to investigate follow Rodney Wetzel on Twitter at the murder of two children they suspect https://twitter.com/Fritz_RodneyW.
Whether it is a waxing, nail services, quick stop-in for a skin care treatments manicure, a pre(including facials, summer waxing microdermabrasion, service, a new hairand chemical peels), cut, a relaxing masmassage therapy sage or a pampering and permanent session with its aesmake-up. thetician, the staff at The newest servBoulevard Salon are ice available at the experts at making salon is teeth whitencustomers look and ing, offered by feel their best. Southern Smyles FishHawk Trails resident Gene Layton is a Located at 210 regular of Bonnie Step, Boulevard Salon’s Professional Teeth newest hair stylist. E. Brandon Blvd., Whitening. Owner Boulevard Salon is a family salon, Renee Smyles, who has a dental backequipped to meet the needs of men, ground and more than 10 years’ industry women and children. experience, says her teeth whitening sys“We offer an array of services so we tem delivers guaranteed results, even on can meet the self-care needs of busy caps and crowns, without any pain or families in one place,” said Boulevard sensitivity. She is currently offering an Salon owner Kathy Hegenauer. introductory special of $49 for her service. FishHawk Trails resident Gene Client Candy Jackson became a Layton has been a customer of stylist customer of Smyles after her grandchilBonnie Step for years. dren made a comment about her teeth. “Not only do I get a great cut, but the “They said, ‘Mimi, your teeth are yelconversation is lively and she really lislow’,” said Jackson, who has been a coftens to me,” he said. fee drinker most of her life. She visited Step, a barber with 40 years’ experiSmyles twice and was pleasantly surence and the newest addition to prised about the service. Boulevard Salon, jokes that her primary “It was done in under an hour without customers are families, but she gets any discomfort or irritation,” she said. “My along well with men and enjoys the conteeth are noticeably whiter and I haven’t versation topics. heard any more comments from my “We talk fishing, landscaping and real grandchildren.” estate,” she said. Boulevard Salon is open Tuesday – In spite of the fishing talk, there’s still Thursday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Friday – plenty of pampering going on at Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Visit Boulevard Salon. Hegenauer’s service www.boulevardsalon.biz or call 571-5800 menu is loaded with hair artistry services, to schedule an appointment.
By Kelly Wise Valdes
By Michelle Caceres
April 2018
Page 13
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Small Businesses Recognized At Annual Awards Dinner
By Kate Quesada
Heather Ochalek of Music Showcase received the award in the 16-Plus Employees Category at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce 2018 Business Excellence Awards. Also pictured are finalist Bradley Herremans of Suncoast Community Health Centers and presenters Dan Raulerson and Rick Lewis.
A group of outstanding local businesses received recognition from the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) last month when the group announced its Business Excellence Award Winners at the 2018 Annual Awards Dinner. Winners were chosen from 18 finalists in six categories: WomenOwned Business, Emerging Business, Non-Profit or Government Agency, Business with 1-5 Employees, Business with 6-15 Employees and Business with 16-Plus Employees. “The mission of the Annual Business Excellence Awards was to inspire Greater Brandon area businesses to seek excellence in all that they do by recognizing GBCC members that have exhibited excellence during the previous year,” said Chamber President and CEO Rick Lewis. “Our mission as a civic organization is to foster success for our members and the community.” To be eligible for the award, businesses are nominated in one of the six categories and then submit an application to the chamber. Those applications are forwarded to SCORE Tampa, a non-profit association dedicated to helping small businesses achieve their goals through mentoring, which then evaluated the applications, interviewed the applicants and determined three finalists and a winner in each category. According to Lewis, the businesses were evaluated on their commitment to good business practices, including a mission statement and good use of technology, exhibition of innovative business techniques and leadership capabilities and activity in the chamber and other business and
community organizations, including volunteer commitments and charitable contributions. “Businesses members join chambers to seek excellence,” said Lewis. “Whether it is through growth, professional development, leadership development, legislative advocacy, members join to make a positive difference. We are passionate about supporting the pursuit of excellence
by business.” Ingrid Hooglander of Brandon Legal Group won the award for Women-Owned Business, Livy O’s catering Company won for business with 1-5 employees, Doan Solutions was the winner in the 6-15 Employees category and Music Showcase won for 16-Plus Employees. MerchatSide Marketing Group brought home the award for Emerging Business and LLT Academy was the winner in the NonProfit or Government Agency category. “Winning the award means a great deal on a of couple levels,” said Heather Ochalek of Music Showcase who has been a member of the chamber for 22 years. “First, it’s a great accolade for the employees to see that their efforts are being recognized outside of the company as our team works to deliver the best experience and customer service possible. Second, it’s very humbling and quite an honor to know that the Brandon area still considers us a strong company in business, as well as someone who gives back to the community. After achieving this goal, we have now been challenged to raise the bar and continue to develop, transform and grow.” Two hundred and twenty five people attended the event, held at ARISE Assembly of God in Brandon, where food was provided by Cater Tampa and beverages were served by Catering by the Family. The GBCC has been hosting the awards since 1982 when Dick Stowers with Stowers Funeral Home was the winner. For information, call the chamber at 689-1221 or visit www.bradonchamber.com.
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Page 14
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Randall Middle School Student Headed To National Geographic Bee
Railfest 2018 And Praise In The Park Set For April In Downtown Plant City
Randall Middle territories to comSchool sixth grader, pete in the State Erik Huisman, has Bees. qualified as a semiTo celebrate the finalists to compete 30th annual National in the 2018 Florida Geographic Bee, the National cash prize for the Geographic State top three students in Bee. The contest each state has douwill be held at bled. Each state Jacksonville champion will University, receive $200, the Jacksonville on Erik Huisman after his win with mother, National Geographic Friday, April 6. Erik, Stacy and Randall Middle School History Visual Atlas of the a well-traveled mili- teachers Mr. Eckstein and Mrs. Homan. World, 2nd Edition tary kid, recently won his school comand a trip to Washington, D.C., to reppetition beating dozens of other sixth, resent their state in the National seventh and eighth grade geography Geographic Bee Championship to be lovers. This is Erik’s second time winheld at National Geographic Society ning a school Geography Bee. He won headquarters, May 20-23. Students that last year at his school in come in second place will Germany at Ramstein receive $150 and those that Intermediate School, come in third will receive Ramstein AB. $100.The first-place national This is the second level champion will receive a of the National Geographic $50,000 college scholarBee competition, which is ship, a lifetime membership now in its 30th year. School in the Society, including a Bees were held in schools subscription to National with fourth through eighth Geographic magazine, and grade students throughout an all-expenses-paid the state to determine each school Lindblad expedition to the Galápagos champion. School champions then took Islands aboard the new National a qualifying test, which they submitted Geographic Endeavour ll. Second- and to the National Geographic Society. The third-place finishers will receive National Geographic Society has invit$25,000 and $10,000 college scholared up to 100 of the top-scoring stuships, respectively. Visit www.natdents in each of the 50 states, the geobee.org for more information on the District of Columbia, Department of National Geographic Bee. Defense Dependents Schools and U.S. Good luck, Erik.
Saturday, April 14 cert, featuring uplifting will be a big day in and inspiring music, Plant City for those will take place beginwho love trains and ning at 3 p.m. at the music. Two great Robert W. Willaford events will take place Railroad Museum. that day at the Robert Praise in the Park is a W. Willaford Railroad free, inter-denominaMuseum located at tional Christian faith 102 N. Palmer St. in event featuring live historic downtown music by local artists. Plant City. The artists who The Robert W. Willaford Railroad First up is Railfest Museum, located in historic down- will be featured town Plant City, will have two great include Valley’s End at 2018. This free event events Saturday, April 14. First, is perfect for the whole Railfest 2018 will happen from 10 3 p.m., Bound No a.m. to 3 p.m., and then directly after, More at 4 p.m., Ray & family. Railfest 2018 will take place from 10 the first-ever Praise in the Park, a The Joshua family-friendly event will be held. a.m. to 3 p.m. There Generation at 5 p.m., will be free goody bags for children, Make It ‘Til Morning at 6 p.m., First great food featuring Bar B Que and hot Baptist Plant City Praise Band at 7 dogs (free for children), and musical p.m., and Dark Horse at 8 p.m. The entertainment. There will also be a fanDescendants will perform at 8:30 p.m. tastic silent auction featuring railroad in the Krazy Kup Loft. memorabilia. Proceeds from Praise in the Park Railfest 2018 is both a fundraiser will benefit the Plant City Pregnancy for the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Center. Museum and an event to raise awarePraise in the Park is organized by ness of the history of the railroad. The Frank and Wenda Trunzo, owners of museum is a wonderful place to visit. Krazy Kup coffee house located at 101 Presentation of the Fourth Annual E. J Arden Mays Blvd. in Plant City. Golden Spike along with the Little Frank said, “Praise in the Park has Golden Spike Award will be presented been an event that I have wanted to at Railfest 2018. The Golden Spike is coordinate for over four years. It has awarded to an individual who has probeen a welcome challenge, and we are moted and supported the community looking forward to a well-received day and the museum. The Little Golden of uplifting spiritual fun that culminates Spike Award is given to an enthusiastic in a financial gift to the pregnancy cenlittle rail fan. ter.” Following Railfest 2018 will be the For more information, please like first ever Praise in the Park. This conboth events on facebook.
Staff Report
By Kathy L. Collins
April 2018
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 15
ECHO’s Sixth Annual Spring Job Fair: Open To The Public
Art Is Once Again Celebrated At This Year's Celebrate The Season Of The Art Show
ECHO is a and Quest Inc., renowned local along with many resource for emermore. There will be gency food and an array of posiclothing for those in tions available need. However, such as: adminisECHO also prides trative assistant, itself on the life medical staffing, changing impacts restaurant employthat are being ment, landscaping, made every single assisted living, day. With over 38 warehouse (packECHO is hosting its Sixth Annual Spring Job ing, shipping etc.), companies having Fair on Thursday, April 19 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. confirmation of IT, bus driver, cusattendance, ECHO’s Spring Job Fair will tomer service, male/female behavioral take place on Thursday, April 19 from 10 technicians, retail positions, and more to a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club be announced. of Brandon, located at 213 N. Knights During the Job Fair there will be Ave. It is free to attend. ECHO’s purpose Resume Triage available; one on one Job in hosting this job fair is to build the conficoaching. dence needed to assist clients in becomWith an ambitious drive to provide ing self-sufficient in local employers a order to put their best more efficient way foot forward in hopes to survey a large of stepping into a number of new career. prospective candiAccording to Sharmaine Burr, BSW, dates for current job positions, ECHO is Director of Social Services, “ECHO determined to also provide high quality believes in giving our community the preparatory tactics along with great opportunity to live a stainable life through opportunity for job seeking exposure. our Workforce Development Program Job Habitually, ECHO will be continuing to for Job. provide food and clothing to the residents There will be a wide variety of oppor- of Eastern Hillsborough County that have tunities for those of all passions and inter- experienced recent hardship, while also ests. These companies include, but are offering access to life-stabilizing programs not limited to: Bank of America, Amazon, and resources to bridge the gap between Hillsborough County Public Schools, Twin crisis and stability. Creeks Assisted Living, Express To register, visit Employment, Goodwill, Affinity, New https://echo2018springjobfair.eventbrite.c Horizons, DACCO, Moffitt Cancer Center, om.
This year's County Fair. This Annual Celebrate included Kaylie the Season Art Waldrop, a fifthExhibit at FishHawk grade student who Creek Elementary lives in FishHawk. School was enjoyed Waldrop's piece by hundreds. The known as Animal event, held annually Rescue, was shown in January, is an at the Tampa opportunity for stuMuseum of Art. dents in fourth and Waldrop said, "I fifth grade to experiam so super excited ence how it feels to to have had my art be a part of a chosen to be disgallery show. played in the museThe students um. I made this take art classes piece when I lost my from Patricia Bunk, cat and it means a M.Ed. Bunk has a Kaylie Waldrop is a fifth-grade student lot to me. The day I at FishHawk Creek Elementary. Her Masters Degree in finished it, he came artwork, known as Animal Rescue, was Integrated Art home." exhibited at this year's Celebrate the Education. Bunk is a Season of Art at the school and then at Celebrate the the Tampa Museum. professional artist Season Art Exhibit whose paintings have been seen by was established by Bunk 12 years thousands. She is also an author. ago. Many of her students are transiBunk has been teaching for many tioning to middle school and beyond. years at FishHawk Creek Elementary. Bunk said, "A rich curriculum and Bunk said of this year's exhibit, foundation has been built enabling "Students took on the challenge of the students to grow on multiple levels human form." Bunk added, "My stuand to soar ahead. This provided students aimed for the higher ground. dents with opportunities to exhibit and They reached for the soul- searching compete in the artistic venues with a essence of what makes a difference in serious respect for craftsmanship." our lives." Bunk added, "Highly creative individuThis year, several students' artals have emerged out of my classwork has been shown in various venroom who will carry that passion for ues around the area including the creativity throughout their life." Tampa Museum of Art, the fine art fesFishHawk Creek Elementary is tival at the Straz Center, the Florida located at 16815 Dorman Rd. in State Fair and the Hillsborough Lithia.
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Page 16
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
April 2018
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Center Place To Host 34th Annual Patron Party This April
By Kathy L. Collins
Center Place will honor of their late host its 34th Annual mother, Pat Patron Party, with a Odiorne.” Rodriguez theme of Island Style, added, “Each year, we present a local on Saturday, April 28 high school senior beginning at 7 p.m. with the Patricia B. Center Place has brought back its sigOdiorne High School nature event at Scholarship. This is Center Place due to given at our March popular demand. The Come support Center Place and its four- High School Art decade long tradition of providing great evening promises to Show Reception. art experiences for the community by be a fun-filled one attending their 34th Annual Patron Party. Pat was very You will have fun at this year’s Island involved at Center complete with a themed party. Place. She served relaxed tropical on the board for many years. She was a themed atmosphere. great ambassador for the arts, and we Center Place holds the annual event miss her dearly.” in order to increase patron membership So put on your favorite colorful Island and raise awareness and support for the arts. Lisa Rodriguez, Marketing Manager attire and join other like minded residents for Center Place said, “We listened to the for an evening filled with fun. There will be community and decided to make the savory hors d’oeuvres, Tiki Bar drinks, change (from a 5k Run) back to what we yummy desserts, island music and are known for, which is a fun patron Center Place’s famous silent auction. party.” Rodriguez added, “We are looking There will be something for everyone to get more people involved, raise aware- in the silent auction from amusement ness for the arts and increase our sponpark tickets, beach get away, restaurant sors and members.” gift cards to beautiful artwork created by If you would like to get involved and local artists. support the arts at an organization that Center Place has been serving the has been an avid advocate for the arts for greater Brandon area for over 40 years over 40 years, you can do this by attendby providing quality art programming. ing the Annual Patron Party. They offer monthly fine art exhibits, chilSponsorships go for as low as $100 dren’s theatre, art classes for adults and which gets two guests into the party and children and summer camp workshops. up to $1500 for a Platinum Membership. For more information and to get tickThis year’s Patron Party has a Title ets to the 34th Annual Patron Party, Sponsor- Odiorne Insurance Agency. please visit www.centerplacebrandon.org, Rodriguez said, “The Odiorne family is a call 685-8888 or email centerplacebranlong-time supporter of our art center, in don@yahoo.com.
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Page 17
The Community Roundtable Holds Its Annual Community Affairs Dinner
By Kathy L. Collins
This year’s Fidler, a senior at Community Roundtable Bloomingdale High Annual Dinner theme School. Fidler has a was Vision. The keynote weighted GPA of 5.72 speakers were and plans to attend the Hillsborough County University of Central Commissioner, Stacy Florida. White and John The Non-Profit of Dingfelder. White and the Year Award was Dingfelder, along with given to Seeds of Hope, Community Roundtable an all-volunteer nonPresident, Janine profit. Seeds of Hope Nickerson, spoke about provides food assisShaun Fidler, a senior at plans to preserve Bloomingdale High School, shown tance to local people in here with Janine Nickerson, Brandon’s history. need and meaningful President of the Community Specifically, the three community service Roundtable, was awarded the laid out a vision of prefor students. hours Maureen Krzanowski Scholarship. serving Julia The Alice Mosely’s propB. Tompkins erty (located Community along Hwy. 60 Service between Award was Haverty’s and presented to Portillo’s) in John Noriega Brandon. The of Bill’s property has Prescription been in the Center in family’s posBrandon. session since John Noriega of Bill’s Prescription Center is the recipi- Noriega has they settled ent of this year’s Alice B. Tompkins Community Service always equatAward. there in the ed his job with 1880’s. service to the community. Currently, there are plans to preserve Noriega said, “We would not be here this historic landmark. Ultimately, the site without the community. Your problems go may be transformed into a history center. away when you help others.” The community will be informed of the For more information on The progress of this plan. Community Roundtable, please visit This year’s Community Roundtable www.thecommunityroundtable.org or call Scholarship was awarded to Shaun 661-4350.
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Local Canine Hero Competing To Become Nation’s Top Dog
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Jammer, a has been an amazing 7-yr-old Golden patient. Retriever from Jammer is competing Valrico, will be in the Emerging Hero’s catcompeting egory in the American Hero against 265 Dog competition. Local dog other couralovers and those across the geous canines country are invited to visit for the nation’s www.herodogawards.org highest honor and vote once per day for recognizing their favorite dogs in each Mankind’s best of seven categories. friend. Jammer is The first round of vota certified theraing ends Wednesday, April py dog and dur25 with the selection of 21 ing the last three semifinalists. A second years Jammer round, featuring a combinaJammer, pictured with owner Tracy and his owner, tion of public and celebrity Halfman, is competing for the American Tracy Halfman, Humane Hero Dog Awards. The public voting, will narrow the field is encouraged to visit have spent time to the seven category finalwww.herodogawards.org and support visiting with a ists. The winning dog in this local Valrico canine. young autistic each category will be flown boy as well visiting to Los Angeles and celebrated residents in numerous at a red carpet, star-studded assisted living faciliawards gala on Saturday, ties. Halfman owns a September 29, when this year’s clinic in Brandon and American Hero Dog will be Jammer also comes revealed. to work each day with Winners in each category her, greeting and visitwill earn $2,500 for their desiging with clients. nated charity partner and the “He always overall winner’s charity partner seems to know when will win an additional $5,000 someone could use a dog to pet or hug prize. The charity Halfman chose is to brighten their day,” said Halfman. “In Secondhand Hounds, a nonprofit dog fact, I have people that come by my office rescue that provides safe shelter, vet care just to visit Jammer.” and daily necessities for animals at risk In December 2016, Jammer was until they find them a forever home. diagnosed with a sarcoma in his right lat“As for being my hero, I can only eral triceps muscle. He had surgery to hope that I can approach the challenges remove the bulk of the mass, as well as in life with the grace and dignity of 19 radiation treatments. The process was Jammer,” said Halfman. long and painful for him, but he recovered One of Halfman’s favorite dog quotes and continued back to work both with is from Roger Caras, “Dogs are not our Halfman as well as his ALF visits. whole life, but they make our lives whole.” Unfortunately, in October 2017 can“Jammer has made our lives whole,” cer struck again. He had an emergency said Halfman. “He is a real hero to me.” splenectomy and was diagnosed with For more information about the 2018 Hermangio Sarcoma, a very deadly form American Humane Hero Dog Awards® of cancer. Jammer is continuing to fight and to vote daily in the contest, please through homeopathic resources and he visit www.herodogawards.org.
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Page 19
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Painting From The Heart Seeks Exterior Paint Applications For Mother’s Day Giveaway By Marie Gilmore
Osprey Observer offices at 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, FL 33511. Last year, for his 10th anniversary in business, Silver donated $10,000 in paint jobs to two local families, the Trombley and Dean Families. “I started my business in 2007 and did most of the painting myself,” said Silver. “The community has helped my business grow and I’m For his 10th Anniversary giveaway, Dynamic Painting USA owner Rob proud to give back with the Silver gave an exterior home paint Painting From The Heart job away to local resident Maggie Dean who brought her granddaughters to the photo Campaign.” op with Osprey Observer team members. According to Silver, he has donated on average $2,500Since 2011, Dynamic Painting USA $3,000 of exterior paint jobs every year and Osprey Observer Newspapers have for close to five years. The campaign, partnered in the Painting from the Heart called Painting From the Heart, gives campaign. The contest is designed to exterior paint jobs to single mothers on give an exterior home paint job to a local family or single mother in need that might Mother’s Day and servicemen or veterans during the holidays. For the last 10 benefit from a home paint job. years, he has also given $3,000-$4,000 For this year’s Mother’s Day contest, in certificates to local charities for room Dynamic Painting owner Rob Silver makeovers every year. would like to help a family with a single “If I can make a small difference in mom to paint the exterior of the house. somebody’s life by giving a paint job Applications are available in the away, then I’d love to do that,” added Osprey Observer or by emailing subject Silver. line PAINT to contest@ospreyob In addition to Painting from the Heart, server.com. Since 2011, nine exterior Silver has also been involved as a home paint jobs have been donated and guardian for Honor Flight of West Central families all across Hillsborough County have been the recipients. Potential recipi- Florida, taking WWII Veterans on a trip to D.C. for the day, has been a member of ents will write up to a 500-word essay on Rotary, local Chambers and more. For why they would like a paint job, and must include a picture of their house in order to information on Dynamic Painting USA, visit their website at http://dynamicpaintinbe eligible. Certain restrictions apply. gusa.com or call 689-9333. Entries can be emailed or mailed into the
Enter to win a Paint Job!
Why could you use up to $2,500 in free painting! Send us your story and a photo. Email a story approx. 500 words about your painting needs to contest@ospreyobserver.com subject line Painting along with a photo. A winner from the community will be selected as part of Dynamic Painting USA’s Painting From the Heart Give Away! Name: Address: Phone: Email: Community: Email to win at contest@ospreyobserver.com, fax to 657-4469 or mail to 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511.
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Page 20
Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
n’s o s n i k r a P s, p u o r G t Su p p o r re … o M & o Bu n c lesanti, helle Co
and some Latin music.
Hawthorne Hosts Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
Hawthorne Health & d by Mic rver.com e il Rehabilitation p m o e C obs @osprey Center hosts a free michelle monthly support group for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and caregivers on the third Thursday of every month. Riverview Garden Club Speaker On Speakers will provide information on Herbs topics relating to swallowing, balance, How beneficial those flying little crea- walking, speaking, mobility, exercise, selftures are, bees. Robert Jones, expert on care, cognition, and the subject will be the memory, all of which can guest speaker on be impacted by Wednesday April 11 at 10 Parkinson’s Disease. a.m. at the Riverview Hawthorne Health & Civic Center on 11020 Rehabilitation Center, Park Dr. in located at 851 W. Riverview. Call 654-6987 Lumsden Rd. in for more information. Brandon, is a skilled nursing facility with inpaParkinson’s Disease tient and outpatient rehaSupport Group Held At bilitation programs includThe Bridges ing speech, physical and occupational The Bridges Assisted Living therapies. Hawthorne also hosts a Community will host a support group for dementia support group in the assisted those diagnosed with Parkinson’s living facility, as well as past meetings for Disease, family members and caregivers. those dealing with strokes, diabetes, low The support group will meet quarterly on vision and other diseases. the last Wednesday of the month beginFor more information or to register, ning Wednesday, April 25. Guest speakcall 661-8998 Monday-Friday from 9 ers will present on a variety of topics such a.m.-5 p.m. as mobility, balance, cognition, medication, and nutrition. The purpose of the Casino Night Fundraiser support group is to share information, Newsome Athletic Booster Club will offer mutual support and gain additional be hosting a Casino Night fundraiser April information from area experts. There is 20 from 7-11 p.m. to benefit student athno fee to attend. Please RSVP to Janet letes at Newsome. The Casino Night will at 413-8900. be for guests 21 and over to play a variety of casino Put On Your Dancing games, a Texas Hold Em tournaShoes ment, enjoy food Valrico Dancing will and drinks, as well be holding a dance on as take part in a Friday, April 6 and April silent auction and 20 at the Knai a 50/50 raffle. The Thomman Social Hall, silent auction will located at 225 N. Dover include a variety of Rd., in Dover. The items, such as a dance will take place 50-inch TV and from 6:30 to 9:30. The wine fridge, as well as other cost is $6. Bring your own items donated by various table service for your BYOB sports teams and local busiand snacks. The music will nesses. The event will be held be by DJ Ken Miller. at the Barnwell Barn, located Currently, dances take at 155 Old Welcome Rd. in place on the first and third Lithia. The $30 ticket price will Fridays of the month. This is include two drink tickets, food a social ballroom and music and casino cash. To order tickets, will be varied to include waltzes, line visit www.nhsboosters.com or send dancing, swing, free style, slow, country
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Workshop Demonstrates Incorporating Pen And Ink Into Journals and Scrapbooks
A Create Workshop demonstrating how to incorporate pen and Ink into your journal, scrapbook, or to illustrate your writing in other media, will be held Saturday, April 14 from 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. in Room 8, at the Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Bonnie Phillips, a local well known artist, will present how to use a technical ink pen and a disposable pen in your writing projects. All supplies will be provided. Register for this free class at the library's Ask Desk, or online at HCPLC.org in the Bloomingdale Library Events section.
‘Bunco For Education’ Hosted By GFWC Brandon Junior Woman’s Club
The GFWC Brandon Junior Woman's Club is hosting "Bunco for Education" on Tuesday, April 10, to raise funds for college scholarships for high school students in the Brandon community. The event will be held at The Bridges Assisted Living Facility at 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview, with social time beginning at 6:00 p.m., followed by Bunco at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $20, each, and can be purchased from any member of the club. Enjoy an evening of fun, with light hors d'oeuvres, refreshments, raffle baskets, 50/50, and prizes. For additional information, please contact Maureen at 7589593, or maureenspagnola@gmail.com.
Annual Garage Sale At Strawberry Ridge
The Woodworkers Club at the Strawberry Ridge Adult Community in Valrico will hold its annual Garage Sale on Saturday, April 21 from 8-11:30 a.m. It will be held at the Clubhouse on Activities Lane (main entrance directly off SR60 between Mulrennan and Dover Rd.) Most of the residents contribute
their still usable household items, furniture, appliances, dishes, nick nacks, outdoor equipment, bedding, Christmas decorations, etc. to the woodworkers club. The proceeds of the sale go to fund the woodworkers Christmas Toy Program. For over 10 years, members have built and bought toys to contribute to a local facility that cares for children removed from their homes.
Financial Advisory Speaks About Financial Decisions At Bloomingdale Library
On Tuesday, April 24 from 6:30-7:30 p.m., a licensed financial adviser will introduce tools for informed financial decisions making cash management strategies, and managing financial risk. This program is presented as part of Money Smart Week, a national public awareness campaign designed to help consumers better manage personal finances. Admission is free; no registration. The program will take place at Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico.
East Hillsborough Democratic Club Meets
The April meeting of the East Hillsborough Democratic Club will be Tuesday April 10 at Beef O'Brady's, 4330 Bell Shoals Rd. in Valrico. Invite your Family and friends at 6 p.m. for meet & greet; meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. April guest speaker will be Hillsborough County Property Appraise Bob Henriquez. For information, visit www.easthillsboroughdems.org.
The Rotary Club Of FishHawk-Riverview’s Eighth Annual Crawfish Festival
The Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview will hold its eighth annual Crawfish Festival on Saturday, April 14 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Winthrop Plaza, 1109 Winthrop Market St. in Riverview. Admission is free. There is a $20 donation per ticket or a family pack for $50, which gets you two pounds of crawfish, corn and potatoes. Enjoy live entertainment and plenty of activities for the children. There will also be a Born to Ride Bike Show. Visit www.luvcrawfish.com for tickets and information.
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April 2018
Page 21
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Group Knits Prostheses For Patients By Kate Quesada which prostheses will be best just based on bra size,” said Sandrock, who will also teach the recipient about care of prostheses during the short fitting. “We also have many different colors from neutral and black to hot pink, depending on personality and mood.” The knitted prostheses can be placed in a regular bra and accordVolunteer knitters and women looking for breast prostheses ing to Sandrock are are invited to attend monthly meetings of the new Brandon Knitted Knockers group the third Wednesday of the month more light-weight and comfortable than tradiat Brandon Regional Hospital. tional synthetic prostheValrico resident Lynette Sandrock ses that can not be worn for weeks is changing lives with her knitting. Sandrock is starting a Brandon group after surgery. In addition, the knitted knockers can be adjusted to fill the of Knitted Knockers, a national organization that provides free knitted breast prostheses for women who have had a single or double mastectomy or other breast surgery. She is looking for both knitters to help make the protheses and women who are interested in being fitted for one or two. An avid knitter since childhood, Sandrock learned about the Knitted Knockers group from a newspaper article and upon further research realized that making the protheses was a way she could give back. gap for breasts “I looked at that are uneven one of the patand are easily terns and adapted for thought ‘I could those going do that,’” she through reconsaid. struction by The prosremoving some theses are stuffing. made from The closest super soft Knitted acrylic yarn and Knockers group are machine was previously in the Sarasota area, washable and dry quickly. Like other so Sandrock contacted Brandon knitters in the national organization, Regional Hospital and local doctors Sandrock donates the materials and and has now set up a monthly sestime for the ones she makes. The sion the third Wednesday of every knitters have found that it is impormonth in the hospital’s Classroom A, tant that recipients, who can have located at 262 S. Moon Ave. in recently had their mastectomies or Brandon. For information, call be years out from the surgery, be fitSandrock at 300-1505 or visit ted for the prostheses in person. www.knittedknockers.org. Sample “The fittings take a short time, patterns for people interested in knitbut are very important because we ting are also available on the webare all different and we won’t know site.
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Page 22
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
River Hills Resident Remembers Wife By Helping Students
JROTC Wolfpack Packed A lot Into Short Month
Some lucky After months students at of background Colleen Bevis checks and paperElementary work, Vandervalk, who retired in 2008 School in after spending his FishHawk Ranch career in the have a new adult on their side this biotech industry, month, helping began tutoring in them learn and March, just in time making them for Dr. Suess’s laugh, all to keep birthday. He took the memory of a this opportunity to River Hills resident William Vandervalk celebrighten the days spacial lady alive. brated Dr. Seuss’s birthday with Bevis River Hills res- Elementary School Media Specialist Michele of even more stuWolfe and kindergarten and first grade students by dressing ident William ‘Bill’ dents. as the famous Vandervalk began Seuss character The Cat in the Hat and tutoring at Bevis, where his daughter-inreading to kindergarten and first grade law is a third grade teacher, recently, classes. only months after losing his wife Eileen to cancer. Eileen, who Bill referred to as “I met with 14 classes, 280 students Pet for their 42 years of marriage, that day, and did six performances of the worked for many years as a preschool book,” said Vandervalk. “It was so much teacher, so the decision for him to help fun seeing the smiles on their faces and children after she passed away was now I am even sometimes recognized easy. around campus out of my Cat in the Hat “She had such a gift with children,” ‘uniform.’” said Vandervalk. “You can’t get what she Vandervalk hopes that through his had with a PhD. It was a natural directutoring he is passing on part of his wife tion for her and the best way I could to the next generation. think of to continue her legacy.” “Pet touched so many children in He now meets with second grade her career, I am hoping to do the same math students and third grade reading now,” he said. “I want the children to students twice a week for tutoring and know that I see they have the ability to extra help. do what they are aiming for, they just “They are all great kids,” said need a little encouragement.” Vandervalk. “And I am thankful for the Anyone interested in volunteering at opportunity to give them the extra push their local elementary school should conand help them see that they can do tact Hillsborough County School District what they set their minds to.” at 272-4000 or visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.
De La Garza, of Charlie Company, was selected as Cadet of the Month and Cadet Staff Sergeant Madeline Mauzy won the NCO of the Month Board. Fourteen Wolfpack Cadets Fourteen Wolfpack Cadets were recently inducted into Newsome’s Chapter of the National Technical Honor Society. were recently inducted into Newsome’s The Battalion hosted its Thirteenth Chapter of the National Technical Honor Annual Military Ball. Cadets from the Society which recognizes the academic Battalion’s Staff spent months preparing and leaderand planning to ship make sure the achieveevent was meticuments of lously executed students with 200 Cadets within the and their guests Career attending. Technical Cadets continEducation ue to strive for (CTE) fields excellence not only of study. Newsome Drill and Color Guard Teams competed at as a Battalion but The the Zephyrhills Drill Competition in February. also as individuals. Battalion’s Battalion Commander, Cadet Lieutenant Specialty Teams have been working hard Colonel Mallory Hirn, received an as well. The Cyber Patriot Team emerged appointment to the United States Military victorious as back-to-back State Academy at West Point. Champions at the Gold Tier level! The Also rising through the competitive Rifle Team remains undefeated at the ranks, the Battalion’s Executive Officer, County level for the seventh year in a row Cadet Major Dylan Renfro, was designatwith an overall First Place performance at ed as the Hillsborough County Army the Brandon Rifle Competition where Cadet of the Year and is now preparing to Cadet Sergeant Logan Portugue finished compete against the top Cadets from the first place overall. other military branches for the title of To learn more about the Newsome Hillsborough County JROTC Cadet of the JROTC Program and Cadet exploits, visit Year. www.newsome jrotc.com. Cadet Private First Class Verity-Hope
By Kate Quesada
By Cadet Captain Raquel Janes and Cadet First Lieutenant Gwyneth Kaighin
U-pick starts end of April into May! 3 locations for your convenience: 11920 Neal Road, Lithia, FL 17928 Bill Taylor Rd., Lithia 30902 Taylor Grade Rd, Duette Follow us on at Lyna Berry Farms
M cAuley Fine Jewelry (Located in the former Martin’s Jewelers)
Open Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-4
813-689-8124 • Oakfield Drive, Brandon (Located in the Atlantic Village Plaza, Kings Avenue & Oakfield Drive)
for exact dates and hours of operation
813-728-9132
April 2018
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/FishHawk
April 2018
Volume 17, Issue 4
Ph: 657-2418
InThis Section GET THE DIRT .................................PG 27 KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY................PG 31 SPORTS CONNECTION .............PGS 32‐33 OAKFIELD DENTAL..........................PG 35 PRIMO LAWN CARE........................PG 37
The Bank Of Tampa
Florida Medical Hearing Centers
With assets The Florida totaling more Medical Hearing than $1.6 bilCenters recently lion, The Bank opened at 3435 of Tampa is one Lithia Pinecrest Rd. of the largest in the Publix plaza. community A ribbon cutting was banks in the held with the Valrico Tampa Bay FishHawk chamber. area. For more Free hearing than three are evaluations decades It has available along developed qualA ribbon cutting with the Valrico FishHawk Chamber Budget Blinds Franchise was held to celebrate the opening of Florida Medical with computerized ity relationships that are perOwners, James and Elaine Hearing Centers. adjustments of sonal and accessible, and aims Trotter, were recently recognized Tampa and Land O Lakes, hearing aids, computer analysis of The Bank of Tampa to deliver a client experience and awarded Budget Blinds’ Invested With You. have owned their Budget hearing aid, three-day trial risk-free. Franchisee of the Year. like no other. Since The Bank of Blinds’ businesses since friendly, no pressure, profesThis Home Franchise Tampa’s inception in 1984, it has 2008. Active in their local community, sional hearing center provides a full Concepts Recognizes Local Budget been privately owned by its staff, they support many charity organizarange of hearing products and servicBlinds As Franchise Of Year directors, and clients. fundraisers and giving-back tions, es. Repair and maintenance are proBoth commercial and corporate Home Franchise Concepts efforts, including Habitat for vided on most hearing aid brands, banking are offered—which includes (HFC), parent company of the topHumanity, Homes for Our Troops, the and offer a 30-day risk-free trial on its middle market, commercial real selling family of direct-to-consumer Pediatric Cancer Foundation, products. estate, SBA lending, and treasury brands in the home improvement Ministries, and Metropolitan Hours are Monday to Friday from services—personal banking, wealth space – Budget Blinds, Tailored Hillsborough County Homeless 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 775-2631 or management, and trust services— Living and Concrete Craft – recently Initiative. visit www.floridamedicalhearing.com. truly making it a full-service commurecognized and awarded Budget In recognition of their long-time nity bank. Blinds’ franchise owners James and back efforts, HFC presented giving Mastermind Workshop Will Help To learn more contact: Alison Elaine Trotter as Budget Blinds’ the Trotters with a Heart & Home You Develop Your Three Year Plan LaPointe, Private Relationship Franchisee of the Year for best overAward, which recognizes franchisees Most of us wouldn't consider it Manager Personal Banking at 998all sales volume in a single calendar that best embody HFC’s core values smart to get in the car and head off on 2665 alapointe@bankoftampa.com or year. They have also been recogof caring and giving back to their vacation with no destination in mind. Terry McFatter, Market Director nized in the Top 20 for a single terricommunities. Did you know that the majority of peoCommercial Banking at 998-2701 or tory sales performance for 2017. Visit The Trotters, franchise owners of tmcfatter@bankoftampa.com. www.budgetblinds.com/Brandon. Continued on next page three territories - Brandon, North
The SCHOOL of TOMORROW is HERE TODAY! Offering Traditional Preschool with Spanish Immersion
Offering Summer Camp • Summer VPK • Preschool Programs
10560 Browning Rd., Lithia, FL 33547 Call 813-689-6819 Visit
childrensacademyfishhawk.com/osprey
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Business Column Continued................... ple spend more time planning their annual vacation than they do actually planning their lives? The sad fact is true. If you don't know where you are headed, you probably won't be satisfied with the end result you achieve! And by then, it's too late. ‘What's Next’ with Carole Gill Develop Your Three Year Plan and Create the Life You Want, a workshop, will be held on Saturday, April 7 from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at The Chateau Banquet Hall, 1903 E. SR 60 in Valrico (Unit F). The cost to attend is $99 per person and includes lunch and pre-work. If you bring three other people, you will attend free (only pay $15 for lunch).
By Michelle Colesanti
Enjoy discussions that focus on your well-being, skin care, make-up, fashion and style. In addition to the various discussions offered, there will be giveaways and light refreshments provided. This evening is all about you so grab your favorite gal pals and make this night a fun Girls Night Out. FabYOUlous & BeYOUtiful will take place on Thursday, April 5 from 6-9 p.m. at Co-Work Landing, located at 522 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. Admission is free. For more information, please join the Facebook Group – FabYOUlous and BeYOUtiful.
LifeLink® Foundation Announces New Chief Financial Office
Foundation, a non-profit community service organization dedicated to the recovery of organs and tissue for Claiming your Social Security transplantation therapy, is pleased to benefits at the wrong time could cost announce the promotion of Stephanie your family tens Hernandez to Chief of thousands of Financial Officer. dollars. A semiHernandez joined nar will be held LifeLink Foundation at The HCC more than 11 years ago, campus at the and previously served as Regent on Controller. She holds a Thursday, April Masters of Accountancy 5, Tuesday, April Degree from University 24 and of South Florida and is a Thursday, May Certified Public 3 at 6 p.m. Accountant. (promptly) to LifeLink Foundation help you with is an independent, nonthese decisions. profit community service LifeLink® Foundation’s New Chief Plan to be there organization dedicated to Financial Officer Stephanie by 5:45 p.m. the recovery and transHernandez. This semiplantation of organs and nar is perfect for people ranging from tissues. LifeLink consists of three 58-67 years old. organ recovery organizations, a tisAt this seminar you will learn sue bank and a transplantation some of the unknown strategies and immunology laboratory, and employs principles behind the proper timing of more than 500 staff members in west taking your Social Security benefits. central Florida, Georgia and Puerto The HCC campus at the Regent Rico. is located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Visit www.LifeLinkFoundation.org for Riverview. more information. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave a message after 4:30 Lynette Silon-Laguna Has Been p.m. Accepted As Four Years AIOFLA’S
Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group
Girls Night Out Hosted By Local Home Based Businesses
Join in for a night of Wellness, Fashion and Beauty. It is hosted by Linda Foster (dōTERRA), Lori Wyatt (Beautycounter), Rowena Sjovall (vêtue boutique) and Sharen Hunziker (Premier Designs). This event is all about you.
10 Best In Florida For Client Satisfaction
The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys has recognized the exceptional performance of Florida’s Family Law Attorney Lynette SilonLaguna as Four Years 10 Best Family Law Attorney for Client Satisfaction. The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys is a third-
Volume 17, Issue 4
party attorney rating organization that publishes an annual list of the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in each state. Attorneys who are selected to the ‘10 Best’ list must pass AIOFLA's rigorous Bayberry Dental celebrated the opening of their new location at 16228 Bayberry Glen Dr in FishHawk with a ribbon cutting, hosted by the Valrico selection FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. To schedule an appointment, call process, 448-6305. which is was recognized at the 2018 Tampa based on client and/or peer nominaBay Parade of Homes. The award tions, thorough research, and brings the company’s total to nearly AIOFLA’s independent evaluation. 750 awards for product design and AIOFLA's annual list was created to more than 1,200 overall. Chosen be used as a resource for clients dur- through the Tampa Bay Builders ing the attorney selection process. Association, the annual Parade of One of the most significant aspects Homes showcases the best homes of the selection process involves attorneys' relationships and reputation among his or her clients. As clients should be an attorney's top priority, AIOFLA places the utmost emphasis on selecting lawyers who have achieved The Tangelo, David Weekley’s model home in Bexley, received an significant award at this year’s Tampa Bay Parade of Homes. success in the field of Family Law without sacrificing the service throughout the region. and support they provide. Selection The Tangelo, Weekley’s model criteria therefore focus on attorneys home in Bexley, was bestowed with who demonstrate the highest stanthe Silver Award in the $550,000 dards of Client Satisfaction. We con$599,000 category. gratulate Lynette Silon-Laguna on “We’re very proud to have won this achievement and we are honored this award at the Tampa Bay Parade to have her as a Four Years AIOFLA of Homes,” said Mike Foster, division Member. You can contact Lynette president for David Weekley Homes Silon-Laguna directly at 672-1900 or in Tampa. “We enjoy participating in www.familymaritallaw.com. this event to showcase the outstand-
David Weekley Homes Recognized By Tampa Bay Parade Of Homes
David Weekley Homes, the nation’s largest privately-held builder,
ing quality and beauty of our homes, and are honored at the recognition our model home received.” For more information about David Weekley Homes in Tampa, contact 866-493-3553.
April 2018
Page 27
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
GET THE DIRT
By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com
WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT
BENZ E400 COUPE A PLEASURE TO DRIVE
2018 Florida State Fair - Recycled Yard Art Contest Winners As you probably know by now, twice a year, we sponsor a Recycled Yard Art Contest, one at the Hillsborough County Fair and one at the Florida State Fair. The purpose of the Recycled Yard Art Contest was to increase environmental awareness and encourage reuse/recycling of materials into yard art. The competition involved two and three dimensional art created from items already used for their original purpose. During the twelve days of the 2018 Florida State Fair, attendees voted for the People’s Choice award on one of the 32 entries submitted. The votes have been tallied, all 11,501 of them (an increase from the 2017 vote total of 9,142), and the winner is: Andy Hamilton for the ‘Flying Minion’ created with propane tanks, fans, bicycle parts, rebar and a chain. JoAnn Emerson won first place in the adult category for her “Chauncey the Garden Sprinkler” which was created from a trash can, bucket, planter, bottle caps, BBQ skewers, garden tools, vacuum cleaner hoses, PCV pipe, rain gauge, functioning irrigation sprinkler and a thermometer. Greco Middle School won the first place Middle School Award for
Lynn Barber, FFL Agent
their creation, ‘Happy Bottle Bush’ that utilized plastic hangers, chlorine bucket, plastic bottles and tubes from a printer. The first place award for an Elementary School went to Lucas Maytum, The Art Factory, for the ‘Dog House’ made with beads, a yard sign and shelf liner. First place for a High School was awarded to Erin Connor from Wharton High School for her ‘Giant Fly’ created from an old purse, bubble wrap, pine needles, soundproof board and newspaper. Thanks so much to all of all of the artists who submitted entries. Lisa, our co-workers, Master Gardener volunteers and I certainly enjoyed talking with everyone that walked by our booth. Right now would be a great time for all of you creative types to start visualizing your entry in our next Recycled Yard Art contest which will be held at the Hillsborough County Fair. We hope many of you will participate. Thanks for Reducing, Reusing, Recycling and Repeating.
Give us an E-Class anytime. As on doors and dashboard, circular air in the E400 coupe. Redesigned for vents and a power trunk lid. The pre2018, the 10th-gen midsize luxury vious rotary knob for the Command car is equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 bisystem has been replaced with a turbo engine touchpad to packing 329 control the horsepower audio, navi@ 6000 rpm gation and and 354 phone infopounds-feet tainment on of torque @ the 12.3-inch 4000 rpm. display The 4Matic screen. And (four-wheel who can drive) ride is miss the elemated to a gant standard 9Mercedes speed autoanalog clock matic, which on the dash? can be drivAgreed, preE400 4MATIC en in individual, mium materials Tires: 245/45R18 front, dynamic, comfort, abound though we 245/40R18 rear eco, sport and do wish the trunk sport + modes. capacity of 13.1 Wheelbase: 113.1 inches The independent cubic feet could have Length: 190 inches multilink front and been slightly larger. Weight: 4,200 pounds rear suspension Standard safety Fuel capacity: 17.4 gallons works splendidly features include dual City: 20 mpg to absorb unpleasfront and side Highway: 26 mpg ant highway airbags, side curtain Web site: www.mbusa.com bumps and sudairbag, four-wheel den sharp turns. antilock brakes, Returning a weighted response to the Electronic Stability Program, Predriver’s input is a razor-sharp electro- Safe (partial braking in an emermechanical power rack-and-pinion gency), rearview camera, keyless system. Zero to 60 in the four-seater start, active brake assist, daytime is achieved in 5.2 seconds. running lights and tire pressure moniThe E400’s handsome road pres- toring system. ence is dominated by the familiar During our test-drive week, we three-pointed star sitting on the lowequaled EPA’s 22 combined city/highpositioned mesh grille, a long hood way mpg in this $61,400-base-priced with power domes, with LED headride (with options, $84,785). Not lights. The cabin is extravagant and inexpensive by any means. But the stylish as is expected of any Benz remarkable car boasts smooth and with dual-zone auto a/c, flat-botlinear acceleration, incredible hantomed power tilt/telescopic steering dling and steering feel. Truly, the column, ambient lights, wood veneer E400 is dream car to take for a spin.
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Page 28
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Give Your Home’s Exterior A Good Spring Cleaning With 20/20 Soft Wash
By Kelly Wise Valdes
Eddie Willis, owner of always been a great feeling to 20/20 Window Cleaning see the expressions of happihas recently announced the ness on the faces of our clients launch of his newest busiwhen we have completed ness, 20/20 Soft Wash. cleaning their homes. There is Willis explains that his origialways a drastic difference in nal business and new busithe before and after results ness are complimentary once we are finished.” and offer customers a total Willis is proud that the proexterior cleaning solution. fessionalism of his company is “I started 20/20 one of the first things people Window Cleaning in 2004 notice. “When we provide an and just added a sister estimate, we don't just write a Eddie Willis, owner of company to my organization 20/20 Window Cleaning few numbers on a piece of called 20/20 Soft Wash at paper,” said Willis. “We have a and 20/20 Softwash, offers detailed attention complete proposal package the end of 2017,” said to every cleaning job, and Willis. “We offer complete is proud of his long list of that contains a cover letter, a exterior cleaning solutions testimonials from satis- list of references and their fied customers. for both residential and comphone numbers, a certificate of mercial clients.” liability insurance, proof The combination of background checks on of both businesses all of our associates, offers customers a before and after pictures variety of cleaning of jobs and then the estichoices including: mate itself.” roof cleaning, window cleaning, house “We do exactly what we say we will washing, driveway cleaning, pool cage do and make their homes look great,” cleaning and many more exterior sursaid Willis. “When they see the results, faces. they are amazed. We like to think of ourWillis is a native Floridian, born and selves as offering the best possible value raised in the Polk County area. He for your dollars than any other organizareceived his Bachelors degree from Troy tion. ” University and a Masters from With spring-cleaning in full-force, conSouthwestern Baptist Theological tact 20/20 cleaning for an estimate to Seminary. After working in Atlanta for 13 make your home look fresh and new. For years he returned to Florida and eventuApril, 20/20 is offering a free driveway ally founded his window washing compacleaning (limit 800 sq. ft.) with any roofny. cleaning job. “My favorite part of running my busiFor information, visit www.20-20winness is the people,” said Willis. “It has dowcleaning.com or call 863-644-4000.
Volume 17, Issue 4
April 2018
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
mble, a r c S f l o G a, l a G e d a r Masque oking & Scrapbo re… Mo lle Colesanti, he d by Mic rver.com e il p m o C obse @osprey e ll e h ic m
Brandon Christian Writers Meet
Do you have a story to share but don’t know how to start? Would you like to get your feet wet in the sea of publishing? Come meet with a great mix of successful and aspiring writers who get together monthly to learn the ropes, find inspiration and enjoy networking. The Brandon Christian Writers meet the fourth Thursday of every month at St. Andrews Methodist Church, 3315 Bryan Rd. in Brandon in Room 305 of the Family Center. At the next meeting on April 26 will be published author and speaker Tina Yeager who will speak about Sensory Writing. For more information and guidelines for manuscript critique, visit www.BrandonChristianWriters.wordpress.com.
Scrapbooking Event
Holy Innocent’s Episcopal Church is hosting a scrapbooking event on Saturday, April 14 from 9 a.m.-6
p.m. Registration fees include workspace, light breakfast and lunch. Bring your own supplies. There is plenty of room and great lighting. Registration fee is $35. Proceeds from this event will benefit Holy Innocents mission trips. The event will be held at Holy Innocents Episcopal Church, 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. Register at www.hiepiscopal.org. Any questions, please 727-365-2300.
Holy Innocents’ Sixth Golf Scramble
Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church will hold its Sixth Annual ‘Best Ball’ Golf Tournament at River Hills Country Club, on Saturday, April 14, at 1 p.m. Prizes will be awarded to the winning foursome as well as for Longest Drive and Closest to the Hole Contests. There are also Hole in One Prizes and a Putting Competition. The event will conclude with dinner, a raffle and silent auction during the Awards Ceremony. For individual and foursome registration as well as sponsorship opportunities visit www.hiepiscopal.org. All proceeds will benefit the mission and ministries of Holy Innocents Episcopal Church.
Mardi Gras Masquerade Gala Benefits Nativity Catholic School
The annual Nativity Spring Gala, the second largest fundraiser for Nativity Catholic School (NCS), bene-
fits the teachers and children of NCS. It will take place on Saturday, April 28 at 6 p.m. at The Brady Center, located at 3319 Bayshore Blvd. in Tampa.
Broadway musical Wicked, Kyrie by Franz Shubert, a triumphant Mozart masterwork Viva! and the spiritual I Hear America Singing!. The second concert of the year will be the Chorale's annual tribute to America and its music on Saturday, June 9, also at Eastside Baptist Church in Plant City. Tickets, $10 in advance and $15 at door, are available at www.pccchorale.org/buy-tickets, by calling 951-5166, and from any Chorale member.
This year’s focus is on the teachers with a goal to raise $60,000, half of which is required to meet the current school year budget. The other half will be used to upgrade every teacher in the school with the newest portable technology. The gala includes dinner, fully hosted bar, dancing, live and silent auctions. Be entertained by energetic performance of hot jazz of the 20's & 30's, Dixieland & New Orleans jazz performed by The Jazz Phools, with additional music provided by Sustache Music Events. Purchase tickets at https://501auctions.com/ncsgala/tickets?type=15343. Admission ticket sales close on April 20. For more information, email Gala@nativitycatholicschool.org.
Enjoy Music And Friendship At Brandon Christian Women’s Next Luncheon
Plant City Community Chorale Spring Concert
With a mission of presenting quality music performance to a wide audience, and to provide opportunities for local singers to perfect their choral performance skills, the Plant City Community Chorale is celebrating its 10th year as a premier singing group in the area. Started in 2008 with fewer than 10 members, the Chorale now averages 30-35 members for each of its four annual performances. In its fourth year under the direction of Claudia Bolano, the choir has grown in number as well as level of performance. To celebrate the beginning of its 10th year, the Chorale will present Sing On! at Eastside Baptist Church, 1318 E. Calhoun St., in Plant City, on Saturday, April 7 at 7:30 p.m. The concert will include diverse music such as the South African mining song Tshosholoza, so popular it is known as the country's second national anthem, For Good from the
The Brandon Christian Women's Connection will be hosting s luncheon on Monday April 9 to celebrate ‘Music and Friendship’ with special friends and concert performers, Cia McKay and Nancy Unsworth. The luncheon goes from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Bell Shoals Baptist Church in the special Event Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd in Brandon. The cost is $15. First time guests pay $10. This is a nondenominational luncheon and all ladies are invited. A reservation is requested by Monday, April 2. For more information, call Lillie at 740-0098.
St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church Introduces Saturday Night Worship
St. Andrews UMC invites you to experience its Saturday night Five14 worship service. The Five14 worship experience kicks off on Saturday, March 31 at 5:14 p.m. Today Sundays are not what they used to be—a sacred day of rest and worship. Instead, Sundays have become another workday, another sports day, another competition day, and the list goes on and on. St. Andrew’s believes that as the culture shifts, the church must shift with it to stay relevant. "We no longer live in a one-option world,” said Reverend Tim Machtel, St. Andrew’s Senior Pastor. “We want to offer another option to those for whom Sunday morning is not an option. We want everyone to experience God's grace.” If you would like more information, visit www.saumc.net or contact Jessica Adams at 689-6849 or Jessica.adams@saumc.net. St. Andrew’s is located at 3315 S. Bryan Rd. in Brandon.
FishHawk Ranch (Lithia)
Community Garage Sale!
OPEN REGISTRATION APRIL 6 & 22 Saturday, April 14th 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
NEW AND GENTLY USED ITEMS FOR SALE!
HUNDREDS OF HOMES PARTICIPATING! Look for signs at entrances off Fishhawk Blvd. and Lithia-Pinecrest For more information call 813.657.6629
See our website:
WWW.FISHHAWKWOLFPACK.COM For more information, please contact Jerry Allen at WolfpackFBRegistrar@gmail.com President - Ingrid Velazquez | Chris Beam - Football Commissioner Merideth Van Auken - Cheer Coordinator l Jerry Allen - Registar
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
g n i r p S , r e Theat ance & Fling D re… Mo
santi, elle Cole h ic M y db m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e michell
Second Annual Daddy/Daughter Mother/Son Spring Fling Dance
On Friday, April 13 from 6-9 p.m. join in for the Second Annual Daddy/Daughter Mother/Son Spring Fling Dance. This special evening is for children ages 4 and up and raises money for Autism Speaks Walk. It will take place at The Barn in Winthrop, 11349 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. Dress up with your child for a special evening neither of you will forget. In instances where a parent is unable to attend, special adults are welcome (ie grandparent, uncle/aunt, etc). There will be dancing, desserts, raffle auction, photos and more. Purchase tickets at www.amazingkidztherapy.com/spring-fling---charityevent.html. Each ticket is for one adult and one child and includes hors d'oueves, dessert
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table and photos. There will be one swag bag per child. Tickets can also be purchased directly at Amazing Kidz Therapy, located at 4312 Bell Shoals Rd., in Valrico. Autism Speaks is a national non-for-profit organization that works towards increasing family services, science, advocacy and awareness for the ASD community. Funding is solely generated from the fundraising conducted through events. For additional information, please contact Kathleen Pici at Kathleen.Pici@AmazingKidZtherapy.com.
Newsome Theatre will per-
The proceeds went toward form Grease from Friday to Sunday, April 26-28 in the the Campo Y’s annual camNewsome Auditorium. paign. Campo Family YMCA is located at it clean before school. Little does he know, 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. For inforSandy transferred to Rydell High, making mation, visit www.tampaymca.org/locathings tense. The story covers the comtions/campo/ or call 684-1371. plexities of teenage identity, masculinity, class conflict, and love. Newsome Theatre Presents Grease Newsome is located at 16550 Newsome Theatre brings Grease, the Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia. Admission costs iconic and classic work of Jim Jacobs and $15 for adults and $8 for students and seniors at the door. Presale tickets are Warren Casey, to the stage in a timeless available for $12 for adults & $5 for stulove story of a hunk and a goody twodents/seniors at newsometheatre.tickshoes. etleap.com. It will take place at Newsome High
The Campo Family YMCA recently hosted its Second Annual Daddy Daughter Dance on Saturday, February 24. All dads got to enjoy a special evening of dancing with their little princess while enjoying delicious desserts and photo opportunities. There were 134 father/daughter pairs registered (up 100 from last year). ChickFil-A donated the food, goody bag items and drinks. Mikie Magic provided animal balloons and a magic show and Power Productions provided the music and lighting. Paradise Booths ran the photo booth
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School Auditorium on Friday to Sunday, April 26, 27 & 28 at 7 p.m. There will also be a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, April 28. Grease is set in Rydell High School in 1959 and centers on a seemingly polar opposite couple, Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski. After an almost perfect summer fling, Danny cuts
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April 2018
Page 31
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
The Outreach Clinic Presents Its 7th Annual Kentucky Derby Party
By Kathy L. Collins
The Outreach largest and most Clinic will host its important fundraiser Seventh Annual of the year. We are Kentucky Derby not bragging, but Party on Saturday, everyone who May 5 from 5 to 9 attends say it is best p.m. at The Regent, charity fundraiser they located at 6437 have ever attended. It Watson Rd. in is a great event with Riverview. Tickets plenty of food and are $100 per person. Get dressed up in your finest outfit and lots of activities that join others as they raise awareness about All proceeds will ben- and much needed funds for The Outreach will delight everyone.” efit the Outreach Meegan added, Clinic at the 7th Annual Kentucky Derby Party, hosted by The Outreach Clinic, on “All proceeds from Clinic. Saturday, May 5 at The Regent in The Outreach this event go to help Riverview. Clinic's Seventh the low income, uninAnnual Kentucky Derby Party is a fun sured receive the health care they need and exciting event. Your ticket gets you to stay alive. Most people do not realize unlimited food samplings, and an open that there are so many residents in our bar featuring Margaritas and Mint Juleps. community who lose their lives every year There will also be Kentucky Derby Horse because they cannot afford the health Games and a fabulous silent auction. You care they need. The Outreach Clinic can can play Derby Corn Hole for a chance to do something to prevent that but only if win a Chest of Cheer worth over $500. we get the financial support from our Watch the Kentucky Derby live on two big community.” screens. Meegan said, “You do not have to be No Kentucky Derby party would be a doctor to save a life. Everyone can be a complete without fancy hats and welllifesaver.” dressed ladies and gentlemen. Ladies The clinic provides much needed can compete in the Most Beautiful and healthcare to those who do not have Creative Hat Contest and the Most health insurance and cannot afford Fascinating Fascinator. Gentlemen can healthcare. Most of those who are vie to win the Most Dapper Gentlemen served, have either a part time job or and the Most Creative Dapper Guy receive only minimum wage or are receivContests. Since the Kentucky Derby falls ing unemployment compensation or on Cinco de Mayo this year, organizers Social Security Disability. have added a prize for best Cinco de The Outreach Clinic is located at 517 Mayo attire. N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. For more Debbie Meegan, Executive Director information and to get tickets, please visit of The Outreach Clinic said, “This is our www.theoutreachclinic.com.
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Page 32
Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Sports
Connection
657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Nick Nahas Nahas By By Nick
Rowdies Youth Club To Compete In Foyle Cup In Ireland Three local boys will go to Ireland this summer to compete in the Foyle Cup as a part of the U.S. Soccer Developmental Academy of the Tampa Bay Rowdies. The international tournament will host some of the top soccer clubs in Ireland, as well as professional academies in Europe, in addition to the top premier teams from other countries. It is also attended by numerous scouts from both the English and Scottish Premier Leagues. The club is associated with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, and they train at the Waters Complex in Tampa. They will be the only team from the U.S. to compete in this tournament. Grayson Ayer from Fishhawk, Alejandro Granados-Torres from
The Rowdies Youth Club with a team from England that they played.
Brandon, and Jojo Davila from Valrico, all 5th and 6th graders, will compete in the Foyle Cup. The under-12 team consists of players born in 2006. “This opportunity means a lot, because we get to see how good we are compared to other teams around the world,” said Ayer. “This is such an amazing opportunity for the boys,” said Grayson’s mom, Tiffany Ayer, who is trying to get the word out to raise funds
for the trip. The team is currently looking for sponsorships and donations to be able to make costs more affordable for the trip. Dex Imaging and Mosaic are the sponsors they have so far. They will also be doing an online auction that will go live in April that will include items such as Tampa Bay Rays memorabilia, Tampa Bay Buccaneers memorabilia, a Martin Gramatica autographed football, multiple wine baskets, multiple liquor baskets, two tickets to to the Tampa Bay Rays club seats (included with buffet, beer/wine, dessert bar), foursome of golf at Cypress Creek Gold Club, a basket from Sun Bum, and a basket with certificates from Pure Barre. They also will be hosting a youth camp over the summer at Ed Radice Park from 9 a.m.-3p.m., June 19 through June 22 for players born from 2007-2009. The fee will be $175 per person. Additional information will be published on the TBUSC.COM website closer to the event. If you would like to donate or become a sponsor, you can contact Darren Miller at DMiller@ElectroTape.com or you can call him at 363-3905.
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April 2018
Page 33
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Sports
Connection Titanium Gymnastics And Cheerleading Trains Elite Athletes By Nick Nahas Titanium Gymnastics and Cheerleading is reaching for the stars. They have two gyms — one in Lithia that opened four years ago, and a second location in Plant City that opened two years ago. Both are owned by Michi Pribil and Jessica Sulford. According to Gina Pribil, Program Director for the all-stars, both gyms combined train close to 500 athletes. The gyms train competiThe level 2 "Xenon" team at the State Cheer and Dance Championships in Daytona Beach in January. tive gymnasts and all-star cheerleaders. “Our program has a family-oriented mentality that keeps our class sizes smaller, which allows our staff to focus more on each individual athlete in their class for their shaping, technique, and safety,” said Pribil. Pribil said that her mother, Michi, who is from Germany, has always had a passion for gymnastics and acrobatics. After working at several different gyms in the The mini level 1 "Cobalt" team at the All-Out area, she decided it was Nationals in Kissimmee in February that placed third. finally time to open her own. She’s done that pretty well.” “She wanted to be her own boss,” At a recent event, both cheershe said. “She wanted to touch the leading teams competing placed first lives of the children in the community and second, respectively. Their mini and give back as much as she can.
team (ages 5-8) has placed in the top three at every competition they have attended thus far. They usually attend seven competitions in a season. Titanium Gymnastics is currently offering summer camps at the Lithia gym. Camp spots are on a firstcome, first-served basis and spots are limited. One of the camps will be from June 4 through August 3. Other camp dates are listed on their website at TitaniumGymAndCheer.com, where you can register as The mini level 1 "Cobalt" team at the NCA well. Sunshine Classic in January, that placed first Titanium Cheer tryouts will be held in Plant City on Tuesday, May 15 and Thursday, May 17 for ages 5 and up. For more information on times, you can call 659-2204. Tryouts in Lithia are on Saturday, May 19 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. for level 1 skills. For more information, you can call 689-2200. The Lithia and Plant City gyms are approximately 20 minutes apart with minimal traffic, typically. The Plant City address is 402 W. Ball St., and the Lithia address is 7017 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. “Our goal is to enrich the lives of our athletes to have positive experiences that will help them grow into The mini "Cobalt" team that placed first successful, mature adults,” said out of three teams at JamFest in Kissimmee in February. Pribil.
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Page 34
Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
17th Annual SeaGrapes Wine & Food Festival Supports Aquarium
Staff Report
Join The part is each ticket sold Florida Aquarium goes toward supporting for its 17th annuthe Aquarium’s mission al SeaGrapes Wine of entertaining, educat& Food Festival ing and inspiring stewfundraising event ardship of our natural presented by environment. This is not Amalie Oil only a fun event, but it on Saturday, April supports a good cause 28 from 8-11 as well,” said The p.m. Immerse your- The Florida Aquarium will be holding its Florida Aquarium’s annual Wine & Food Festival on self in a wine and Communications Saturday, April 28 from 8-11 pm. food festival unlike Manager Kaitlyn Fusco. any other. Dress is cocktail Enjoy fantastic attire. VIP ticketholder wine and sample entry will begin at 7 delicious food while p.m. for early access to strolling among the food and drinks, as more than 7,000 well as a special VIP animals and plants, area with exclusive food all while supporting and drink options. New a good cause. this year, a sunset There will be 50+ cruise will be offered as types of wine available to an add-on to any ticket. One sample and more hundred per cent of the prothan 20 different local ceeds from tickets purrestaurant partners in chased support The attendance. The festive Florida Aquarium’s mission atmosphere will be to both entertain and educomplemented by a cate as well as inspire stewardvariety of live entertainship of our natural environment. ment throughout the Aquarium. General admission tickets are $125, “We are very excited to be hosting VIP tickets are $250, and an add-on SeaGrapes, our annual fundraising sunset cruise for any ticket is $75. For event, again this year. We have so many more information about the event great wines and food from local restaucall 273-4000 or visit flaquarium.org/searants for our guest to enjoy while taking grapes. in the Aquarium atmosphere at night. It The Florida Aquarium is located at truly is a special experience and the best 701 Channelside Dr. in Tampa.
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April 2018
Page 35
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Patients Overcome Their Fears At Family & Special Needs Friendly Oakfield Dental Not all who take a seat in that lightcolored leather dental chair seem thrilled because of a fear they could be facing. At Oakfield Dental in Brandon it strives to do everything possible to make dental visits pleasant and positive experiences for their patients. In 2016, Oakfield Dental became established by Dr. Amir Boules, D.M.D. His wife Dr. Melanie Leung, D.M.D. joined the team too with knowledge and a heart for working with kids such as those with Autism and other special needs. To add, the staff here did get handpicked to provide individuals with the best quality care to make the dentist visit most comfortable and enjoyable. Leung earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in Pennsylvania. While attending dental school, Leung chose to do a rotation at a special needs clinic where she saw various types of patients every week. In addition, Leung mentions how Oakfield Dental utilizes numerous methods to make it a comfortable environment to all patients. For instance, an apron that gets placed during an x-ray
By Tatiana Ortiz
remains on an autistic patient throughout the entire appointment because it portrays as a safety blanket on them. Another method would be providing them with free earbuds or using colorful nonthreatening tools and more. “I enjoy working with kids and it all started before dental school,” Leung said. Furthermore, what makes Oakfield Dental unique would be its home-like appearance of this specific office, which includes a coffee and tea bar, phone charging station in each operatory, cozy blankets and much more. It also provides services such as onehour whitening, digital x-rays to minimize radiation and cleanings with an emphasis on communicating oral hygiene tips just to name a few. “Overall, most people come in with some type of dental fear and I want the community to know that we care,” Leung said. For information, visit www.oakfielddental.com. It is located at 1457 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. Open Monday, Tuesday and Friday 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m., Wednesday 8:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Call 906-8808 to schedule an appointment.
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Page 36
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Get Twice As Happy At The Florida Orchestra By Kelly Smith
Spring is in years, TFO perfull swing at The forms Verdi’s Florida Orchestra massive masterwith a fresh crop piece brimming of music in all catwith drama, pasegories for all sion and deep ages, including faith, featuring the two Happy Hour Master Chorale of Concerts in April. Tampa Bay. Happy Hour Michael Francis Concerts conducts. (Thursday, April Family On Thursday, April 26, a 50th anniversary cel5 & 26): Join Concert: From ebration will feature a Vivaldi flute concerto with Principal flute Clay Ellerbroek. friends after work Rags to Mozart for free drinks, live symphonic music (Saturday, April 21): TFO’s Reed Trio, and a meet-and-greet with musicians with oboe, clarinet and bassoon, will at the Straz Center. Bars open at 5:30 take kids on a journey through music p.m. before the hour-long concert at spanning four countries and three cen6:30 p.m. On Thursday, April 5, it’s a turies. Two concerts, at 10 and 11:15 Fiesta with Latin-inspired music. On a.m., in the Mahaffey Theater Atrium. April 26, a 50th anniversary celebraCome early for the Instrument Petting tion features music that stands the test Zoo. Best suited for children in Pre-K of time, from Raiders March to a through 2nd grade. Admission is pay Vivaldi flute concerto with Principal what you can at the door. flute Clay Ellerbroek. The cost is $35 Celebrate Broadway (Friday to for general admission seating. Sunday, April 27-29): Join The Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 26 Florida Orchestra for the best part of (Saturday and Sunday, April 14 & Broadway – the music! Broadway star 15): It’s a dynamo team, with awardDaniel Narducci and the Master winning conductor Elim Chan and Chorale of Tampa Bay belt out showpianist Louis Schwizgebel, who makes stoppers from Phantom of the Opera, his TFO debut on Mozart’s Piano The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Camelot Concerto No. 26, ‘Coronation.’ Also: and more. Bob Bernhardt guest conProkofiev’s Symphony No. 1 and ducts in this Raymond James Pops Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1. Kids concert. and teens get in free to this and all The Florida Orchestra performs reguTampa Bay Times Masterworks conlarly at the Straz Center in Tampa, certs. Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth Verdi’s Requiem (Friday to Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Most tickets Sunday, April 20-22): A can’t-miss start at $15. Available at floridaorchesmoment of the 50th anniversary seatra.org or 727-892-3337 and 1-800son. For the first time in nearly 10 662-7286.
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Volume 17, Issue 4
April 2018
Page 37
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Veteran-Owned Primo Lawn Care Provides Excellent Service
By Nick Nahas
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To the Primacios, family means everything. Betsy and Paul Primacio started Primo Lawn Care in 2009 after Paul decided to move on from his previous job where he had to travel a lot. His travels kept him from home quite a bit, and he missed out on being able to spend quality time with his family on a regular basis. Being apart from his family really started to wear on him, so he decided to start his own business, which gives him the flexibility to spend more time with his family. The family-run business wants to provide the best lawn care possible. “Our company is not just a job to us, it is a passion, said Betsy Primacio. “Nothing makes us happier than being able to provide the best quality lawn care to our welldeserving customers, and knowing that they can rest easy because we are taking full care of them and their property.! This allows them to spend more quality time with their family, which we of course value more than anything.” Lawn services include mowing, edg-
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areas. The company is licensed and insured, and offers free estimates. Contracts aren’t required. Primo’s offers one-time jobs, as well as month-to-month and yearly contracts, however, lower prices are offered on the yearly contracts. Primo Lawn Care is a small company, and they plan on staying that way. The goal is to provide the best quality work for each individual customers. “Customers are real people to us, not just a number,” said Primacio. “By keeping our amount of customers down, we are able to provide service on a very personal one-on-one basis, resulting in customers feeling their concerns are truly heard. Our customers know 100% that we care about them.” Visit www.primoLawnCare.com, or call 355-1778 for a free estimate.
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Page 38
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Dr. Priya Reddy Offers Remarkable Rheumatology Care in Riverview
By Amy Schechter
If you or a loved belongs. She is an one have experienced Executive Board arthritis, tendonitis, gout Member of the or lupus, you underFlorida Society of stand how debilitating Rheumatology and these autoimmune concurrently serves as ditions can be. That is Secretary/Treasurer why having a good and concurrently the rheumatologist is an Florida Regional integral part of a care Director for the plan. Dr. Priya Reddy American Women in Dr. Priya Reddy, MD, FACR, and her staff at Rheumatology. Dr. Southwest Florida Rheumatology. Southwest Florida Reddy is Board Rheumatology are perfectly poised to Certified in Rheumatology and is a Fellow diagnose and treat a variety of rheumatic of the American College of diseases, which when left untreated can Rheumatology. Additionally, she is a affect the joints, muscles, and bones and member in good standing with the cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and deforAmerican Medical Association, American mity. College of Physicians, Florida Medical At Southwest Florida Rheumatology, Association, and the Hillsborough County Dr. Reddy and her staff work with patients Medical Association. to evaluate and treat rheumatologic disBesides bringing cutting edge ease as well as provide in-office infusion advances to her patients, she passes on therapies, diagnostic ultrasound, and her knowledge. Dr Reddy continues as labs. There is true commitment behind part of the teaching faculty at Brandon Dr. Reddy’s practice, “I have a passion for Regional Hospital and Blake Regional patient advocacy, patient education as Hospital internal medicine programs that well as to the continued advancement of are part of the University of South Florida my profession in rheumatology. I know medical education system. that patient outcomes improve when Southwest Florida Rheumatology is patients better understand their disease conveniently located in Riverview and state and participate in informed decision- also serves Lithia, Fishhawk, making with their physician.” Bloomingdale, Brandon, Valrico, Before opening her practice in 2010, Gibsonton, Sun City Center, Ruskin, and Dr. Reddy began her career at the Apollo Beach. University of South Florida where she For more information, call 672-2243 was faculty in the Division of or visit www.swflrheum.com. The office is Rheumatology. Her love of research and open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, continued education are evident in the and are located at 11954 Boyette Rd. in many organizations to which she Riverview.
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April 2018
Page 39
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Early Learning Center Hosts Food Trucks And More At Multi-Culture Fair By Kate Quesada
What do a food truck class creates an inforoffering Middle Eastern mation board containfood and Taiko drummers ing facts and photos have in common? They about their chosen will both be in attendance country. These at the Village Early boards will be on disLearning Center’s free play at the event. Multi-Culture Fair on Community memSaturday, April 7. bers who attend the The community is event will be given a invited to join pre-school passport that will students and their famienable them to travel lies as they learn about from country to counthe cultures of 40 differtry within the preent countries from school, hearing stoPoland and Columbia to ries and making Ecuador and Egypt at the crafts, in addition to event. seeing items from the The Multi-Culture countries the students Fair is sponsored by have studied all week. The Village Family In addition, the fesFoundation, a nontival will include dancprofit organization, ing, music, displays of and the Parent native costumes from Advisory Committee of all over the world and the preschool. ethnic foods as well as “Raising awarea food truck offering ness of the world Middle Eastern food around us and its difand a Kona Ice truck. ferent cultures is the International comgoal of the school’s munity members, international week,” organizations or groups said Marlena Beamer, would are interested in International Festival participating in the Chairman. “The event can call the Village Early Learning school at 651-0779. Annual Village Early Learning Center Multi-Culture Fair will take place on Saturday, April 7 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Center celebrates our Visit www.vilbefore the event and the students will “The students picked these coundiversity here.” lageelc.com. The school is located at explore the customs, stories, food, tries because they have family memAccording to Beamer, classrooms 3741 Canoga Park Dr. in Brandon bers that live in these regions,” said at the school will be decorated to rep- flags and geography of various counand the event will take place from 10 tries in preparation for the festival. Beamer, who explained that each resent a particular country the week a.m.-2 p.m.
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Page 40
Citrus Carpet And Tile Celebrates Two Years Of Cleaning And Community
By Kate Quesada
Citrus Carpet an additional and Tile Cleaning employee to of Tampa owner work with him on Jim Hirz is proud jobs. to have been For carpet servicing the cleaning, Citrus community for Carpet and Tile two years this uses a quick drymonth. During ing, low that time he has moisture made a name for process that himself with hunnot only predreds of satisfied Riverview resident Jim vents recarpet and tile spotting but Hirz with Citrus Carpet and Tile Cleaning of Tampa is celebrating two years in also means customers and the community this month. as president of that custhe Kiwanis Club of Greater Brandon. tomers can fully use the area within an Hirz, who moved with his wife Carol hour. All services are personalized and to Riverview from Atlanta in 2014, decid100 percent guaranteed. ed that Citrus Carpet and Tile Cleaning But one of Hirz’s favorite things about would be a great fit for a new business in owning a small business is the way it has eastern Hillsborough County. helped him get immersed in his commu“The company’s product, approach nity. He has been a member of the and philosophy sets it apart,” said Hirz, Kiwanis Club, a global organization of who ran a video production business for members dedicated to serving the chil20 years before moving to Florida. dren of the world and developing youth Using a special all natural formula leaders, for 16 years and states that his derived from skins of citrus fruits, the work with the group influences everything company specializes in carpet, tile and he does. grout cleaning, but also offers furniture, “I am so thankful and proud that my area rug and upholstery cleaning. An business has allowed me to take on an additional service Hirz feels sets his busiimportant role with the Kiwanis Club,” ness apart is grout color sealing, which is said Hirz, who became president of the a painting process that creates an impen- Greater Brandon group last year. etrable boundary to the porous grout and Citrus Carpet and Tile services all of allows the customer to custom pick the Hillsborough County. For info, visit color of the finished product. www.citruscleantampa.com or call Hirz at “When we are done it looks like a 314-7800. For Kiwanis, visit www.brannew floor,” said Hirz, who recently hired donkiwanis.com or call 810-8584.
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Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Planning for Travel to Alaska Outside of the Caribbean, one of the most requested destinations is Alaska. With so much to see and experience, planning is key to ensuring that all the items on your bucket list make it on to your itinerary. Here are some helpful planning considerations. 1. Plan 7-10 months out. This ensures you can obtain the travel dates wanted. Plus, it leaves plenty of time to check flights and obtain passports if needed. If your itinerary stops in Canada, a passport is required. And depending on what you want to do, planning may need to occur even earlier than seven months out. 2. How do you want to experience it? This is the first decision you must make. There are trips that are land only, cruise only, or a combination. And from there, you can decide on which side of the state you want to visit. This provides focus and from there, an itinerary can be built around that decision. 3. Activities. Give some thought as to what you would like to do on vacation. Do you want to hike or fish? Is visiting cultural sights important to you? Are you a foodie? How do you envision your dream vacation? “Before I make any recommendations, regardless if it is a cruise or land package, I spend time with my clients listening to their dreams, what they want from a vacation, and the memories they hope to create,” said Jenifer Breaux, Dream Vacations franchise owner and travel expert in Lithia. “Vacations should be crafted to the individual. This is a memory that you will keep for your lifetime, and by planning in advance, we are able to work together to achieve it.” For more information or to be matched with the vacation of your dreams, please call Jenifer Breaux of Dream Vacations at 813.667.7000 or visit www.JBVacationPros.com.
About Dream Vacations Launched in 2016, Dream Vacations A CruiseOne Company is a franchise opportunity that is part of World Travel Holdings, the world’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure Travel Company. Dream Vacations franchisees have unrivaled buying power to offer the best prices and exclusive offers when selling memorable vacation experiences such as cruises, resort stays and land tours.
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April 2018
Page 41
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Brandon Ballet To Feature One Of Its Own Dancers In The Upcoming Production Of Cinderella dancer with the Brandon Ballet. Prior to this, Parry was with the Montgomery Ballet. In addition to working as a year-round professional dancer with the Brandon Ballet, Parry attends college. Artistic Director, Doricha Sales said, "Artistically, Parry is perfect for this role. Sarah Parry, a professional dancer with the Brandon Ballet, She embodies the will be featured as Cinderella in the upcoming finale producinherent kindness and tion of the 24th season of the Brandon Ballet. care that is associated The Brandon Ballet will present the with Cinderella." Sales added, "In additimeless classic, Cinderella, on tion, her light and airy movement comSaturday, April 28 at 7:30 p.m. at bined with technical precision will natuRiverview High School located at 11311 rally show the duality of childhood innoBoyette Rd.in Riverview. Tickets are cence and the precipice of true love $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and $20 that this character carries." for students 12 years old and under. Parry will be joined on stage by a Tickets are available at cast of 40 others, including several of www.tututix.com/brandonballet. the guest professional dancers that Cinderella is the final production of Brandon Ballet audiences have enjoyed the 24th season for the Brandon Ballet. this past season in the productions of This production will honor the life of Dracula and The Nutcracker. long time teacher and choreographer Lyndsey Ladewig, President of the for the Brandon Ballet, Richard Munro, Brandon Ballet said, "We are so excited who choreographed and designed about this ballet and the detail Artistic Brandon Ballet's original production in Director, Doricha Sales, has put into 2008. In addition, the show will highlight honoring Richard Munro with his chorethe present local talents of Brandon ography." Ballet while showcasing the many The Brandon Ballet was founded in young future artists that complete the 1993. It is a non-profit pre-professional company. ballet company that develops and proCinderella will feature Sarah Parry motes opportunities for aspiring young in the leading role of Cinderella. Parry dancers. The Brandon Ballet offers trained at The Dance Center in three major performances each season. Brandon. She is a former Richard For more information, please visit Munro Scholarship recipient. She is finwww.brandonballet.org. ishing her first season as a professional
The Florida Wind Band Presents The Final Two Concerts Of The Season
The Florida Wind Band will present the fourth and fifth concerts of its 11th season this May and July. Come listen to great music performed by exceptional musicians. The Florida Wind Band is recognized as one of the finest bands in the country.
The Florida Wind Band will present the fourth concert of its 11th season on Sunday, May 6 at 4 p.m. The band will present Rhapsody In Blue at the USF School of Music Hall located at 3755 USF Holly Drive in Tampa. This concert will be a crowdpleasing musical compilation of favorite melodies and exceptional works. The concert will feature George Gershwin’s Rhapsody In Blue, Leonard Bernstein’s Overture to Candide and Jericho Rhapsody by Morton Gould. The concert will also feature two of the country’s finest artists with solos on their respective instruments. These will include Agnieszka Zick, a nationally renowned pianist, and USF Professor of Trombone, Tom Brantley. Laura Cope, Board Member with the Florida Wind Band said, “Join the Florida Wind Band on May 6 in celebration of the virtuosity and musicianship of these extraordinary soloists and enjoy the band as they perform music that you are sure to find both delightful and memorable.” The fifth and final concert of the season will take place on Sunday, July 1 at 4 p.m. at the USF School of Music Concert Hall. The band will present An American Salute: A Patriotic Occasion. This concert will
commemorate Independence Day, and to pay homage to those who currently serve in the United States armed forces and to service veterans. In addition, this concert will honor all service providers as true heroes in our society. The July performance included selections to inspire the patriotic spirit of the listener, such as Emblems by Aaron Copeland, a wind band masterwork that was composed with regard to the emblems we hold dear. The band will also perform Robert Jager’s Esprit de Corps, an exciting march that salutes the traditions of the U.S. Marine Corps. Other favorites will include Morton Gould’s American Salute (based on Johnny Comes Marching Home), America the Beautiful, and the Armed Forces Salute. Cope added, “The Florida Wind Band applauds America with this concert, providing a perfect precursor to the July 4th holiday.” Tickets to both concerts are just $10 for students and seniors and $15 for general admission. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster and on the day of the concert at the USF School of Music Box Office. For more information and to become a sponsor of the Florida Wind Band, please visit www.floridawindband.org or call 531-9252 or email flwindband@gmail.com.
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Page 42
Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Weird, Wacky And Wonderful Holidays- April 2018 Beer Day * Zoo Day * Big Wind Day * Shrimp Scampi Day * Hair Appreciation Day By Kelly Wise Valdes Did you know that there are an abundance of daily holidays and special days every month? Some are immersed in tradition, while others may be silly, bizarre, unique, special or inspirational. Unofficial Holidays are not traditionally marked on calendars but are celebrated by various groups and individuals. Some are designed to promote a cause or to recognize historical events not recognized officially, while others are fun holidays, generally intended to just be humorous. So, in the midst of our busy lives, maybe consider taking time to enjoy some of the entertaining but lesser-known holidays throughout the year. Corona, Bud Light, Blue Moon? Whatever your choice in beer, you will be happy celebrate these awesome ales on National Beer Day, Saturday, April 7. Effective April 7, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt repealed the 13-year prohibition and people could once more legally buy, sell and consume their beloved brews. At the stroke of midnight an on that first National Beer Day, Americans consumed 1.5 million barrels of legal beer and ale. Today, beer is the third most popular beverage in the world behind water and tea. To honor this historical day, we should all lift up our frosty mugs, bottles and cans in celebration. There is no shortage of places to celebrate, but if you are looking for a special location, you may want to hop on over to Stein & Vine or Craft Beer Cellar, both located in Brandon. Or if you have a hankering to learn how to brew your own beer, visit Bootleggers BREWWORX, a homebrew supply store who offers a full line of ingredients and supplies for making beer. They are located at 650 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. After your beer celebration, how
Celebrate Other Holidays In April: April 7 – No Housework Day April 12 – Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day April 16 – Eggs Benedict Day April 19 – National High Five Day April 25 – World Penguin Day April 28 – Great Poetry Reading Day
about a fun trip to Lowry Park Zoo? Sunday, April 8 is National Zoo Day and who doesn’t love the zoo? Its fun for the whole family, so load up the kids, the neighbor’s kids – even the grandparents – and go enjoy some lions, tigers and bears at the Lowry Park Zoo located at 1101 W Sligh Ave. in Tampa. For more information about prices and times, visit www.zootampa.org.
Thursday, April 12 is a day that will BLOW your mind. National Big Wind Day commemorates the highest wind speed ever recorded on the planet. Can you guess where? Surprisingly, it wasn't in the middle of a tornado or even a hurricane. On April 12, 1934, the staff of the Mount Washington Observatory recorded the highest surface wind ever measured, anywhere on earth,
officially recorded at 231 miles per hour. How can you honor this windy discovery? Visit iFLY in Brandon, an indoor simulated skydiving in a wind tunnel that is safe and fun for the whole family. Don’t let this day blow by you, visit www.iflyworld.com. If you are a fan of the tasty crustaceans covered in warm butter and garlic, then National Shrimp Scampi day on Sunday, April 29 is your special day. Don’t be ‘shellfish’ and let this delicious day pass you by. Shrimp scampi is simple and easy to make. But if aren’t in the cooking mood, you many want to visit Beve Cibo located at 5622 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. They have a shrimp scampi dish that is ‘shrimply’ delicious. What does the bee-hive, bouffant, bob, shag, and mullet have in common? These are all hairstyles that hold a special place in our hearts during Hairstyle Appreciation Day on Monday, April 30. Hairstyle Appreciation Day celebrates the uniqueness of all styles of hair -whether long, short, curly, blonde, brown, red or a combination. Maybe this is the day you should consider a new color or cut. Maybe give Boulevard Salon in Brandon a call at 571-5800 and let them know that your ‘do’ needs a new ‘do.’ I would be remiss if I did not add this very important final day to this story. Wednesday, April 18 is National Columnists Day, recognizing the importance and value of newspaper columnists. The National Society of Newspaper Columnists was founded in 1977 and sponsors this day in support of columnists and journalists around the world. The staff at the Osprey Observer Newspaper is dedicated to bringing good news, supporting local businesses and community awareness to the Southeastern Hillsborough area. To learn more about the Osprey Observer newspaper, become a Facebook follower at www.facebook.com/OspreyObserverFa ns.
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April 2018
Page 43
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Twelve Oaks RV Escapes Offers Great Deals on RV Rentals
By Nick Nahas
Do you ever just dinette, refrigerator, want to get away from microwave, k-cup coffee the grind of everyday pot, gas stovetop, shower, life, but can’t afford a commode, stereo, hotel or expensive awning, and even a TV vacation? Twelve and DVD player. Their Oaks RV Escapes smaller campers might be just the place are designed to be towed for you. behind most pickup trucks Owners Ben and and SUVs (check out their Barbara Nixon started towing guidelines on their their RV rental busiwebsite). ness back on They also offer delivBen and Barbara Nixon, owners of ery options. They will February 23. For an Twelve Oaks RV Escapes. affordable $89-$109 meet you at your reserved per night, campsite and you can get have a camper your camper rental and fully set up and can even ready to add a towgo. Fees able travel include delivtrailer. ery of the “As avid camper to campers, we your campsite, love escaping to the great outdoors full setup/ hookup/ teardown, and emptyevery chance we get. Camping allows ing of the tanks after your trip. A delivery us to relax in beautiful settings surround- fee is a one-time fee in addition to the ed by oak trees, wild palmettos, and run- daily rental rate. ning streams. Florida offers countless Some of the recommended camping camping opportunities year-round, and sites on the website include Fort De camping restores our soul in a way that Soto Park, Oscar Scherer State Park few other vacations do,” said Barbara and Alafia River State Park. Nixon. “We want to share our love of the Twelve Oaks RV Escapes is located outdoors and offer convenient, affordat 10533 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. able, camper rentals that are cheaper Hours are Monday through Thursday than a hotel room.” from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Each camper is outfitted with everyFor more information, you can visit thing you need, including air condition12oaksrvescapes.com, or you can call ing/heat, ample sleeping quarters, 205-1139.
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Page 44
Volume 17, Issue 4
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
There’s a reason Brenda sells more! She takes care of YOU! Whether buying or selling... the experience makes the difference! ! G EWN N TI S LI
PARADISE FOUND ON 5 ACRES! Stunning 5/3.5/5+ garage +office + bonus + pool/spa home that dreams are made of! This beautiful home is FULL of features including hardwood floors, wide crown, tongue & groove ceilings, fireplace & so much more! Beautiful chef's kitchen! Perfect home with resort-like outside space! $1,125,000 ! G EWIN N T S LI
LOCATED ON THE 8TH GREEN IN BLOOMINGDALE GOLF COMMUNITY! 4/2/3 + pool/spa home that boasts NEW ROOF in 2013 & fresh exterior paint! Interior offers wood-burning fireplace, volume ceilings & spacious kitchen with 42" wood cabinets & stainless appliances! $349,000 ! EW E N RIC P
STUNNING HOME IN GUARD GATED RIVER HILLS! Welcome to this impressive 4/3.5/3 + office + pool/spa home located on a double fairway! Impressive curb appeal with circular drive & tile roof! Interiors features include plantation shutters, French doors, tray ceilings, fireplace & sitting area in master! $475,000
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GORGEOUS WESTBAY "VENEZIA" HOME IN GATED FISHHAWK PRESERVE! 5/5.5/3 + office + bonus + media + pool/spa home that would suit the most discerning buyer! Almost 6,500 sqft of absolute luxury awaits! Call for your personal tour or take a look at my website! $1,525,000
PERFECT, CUSTOM FOWKE HOME IN GATED DUNLINWOOD! 5/4full/3half/4 + office + bonus + pool/spa home! Over 6,000 sqft & 1,049 sqft garage! 3/4" hand shaved wood floors, honeycomb ceilings, plantation shutters, crown, fireplace & more! 3 New A/C's, fresh interior paint & new carpeting! $1,199,000
TRUE ONE OF A KIND BEAUTY IN GATED DOE CREEK! Over 8,500 sqft siting on 6.58 acres! This custom beauty offers EVERYTHING you could want & more! No detail overlooked including guest house with kitchen! To truly appreciate this stunning home, go to my website and look at all the fabulous details! $1,890,000 ! G EWN N TI S LI
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POND VIEWS & WAITING FOR YOU! 4/3/3 + office + pool home that sits on a quiet cul-de-sac street! A/C replaced in 2016, water heater in 2015 & pool pump 2015! Neutral paint, gorgeous floors, separate formals & kitchen with wood cabinets & NEW stainless appliances! Wonderful home that is waiting for you! $399,750
WONDERFUL BEAZER "ANNA MARIA" HOME IN FISHHAWK WEST! 4/3.5/2 + bonus home that shows like a dream! Striking elevation with stacked stone accents & Interior with neutral paint & tile in living areas! Kitchen with 42" cabinets topped with crown, granite, island & stainless appliances! Screened patio! $360,000
0.61 ACRES ON A WATERFRONT CONSERVATION LOT IN FISH HAWK TRAILS! 4/3/3 + office + bonus + pool/spa home with NEW ROOF Oct 2016 & freshly painted interior in neutral paint in 2018! This charming home offers wide base, plantation shutters, crown, fireplace, 12 ft ceilings & more! All white kitchen with updated appliances & 42" cabinets! $492,500
OVER 1/2 ACRE CONSERVATION LOT IN GATED FISH HAWK TRAILS! 4/4/3 + bonus + pool/spa home with NEW ROOF in 2017! Wood floors, chair rails, tray ceilings & neutral paint! Spacious kitchen with white cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! Wonderful gem to call home! $497,500
**HUGE PRICE REDUCTION**OVER 12.5 ACRES IN THE HEART OF VALRICO! Zoned for 'A' schools, this is the perfect spot to build your dream home! Private gated entry & long driveway & two ponds! Currently two mobile homes are on the property! $500,000
GORGEOUS FISH HAWK TRAILS HOME! 4/3/3 + pool/spa home that sits on 0.48 acre lot overlooking a pond! This beauty offers wood floors, plantation shutters, 20" tile, crown, wide base & granite & California closets throughout! Gourmet kitchen! Pavered lanai with outdoor kitchen! $619,000
PRIVATE HALF ACRE LOT! 4/3/3 + office + bonus + pool home in Fish Hawk Trails! Wood floors, crown, wood-burning fireplace, French doors, tray ceilings, separate formals & more! Private conservation lot! New A/C unit in 2016! $509,000
PERFECT WEST BAY "TERRACENA" HOME IN GATED FISHHAWK PRESERVE! 6/4.5/4 + office + bonus + pool/spa home that offers EVERYTHING you could need and more! Over 4,800 sqft of luxury is ready & waiting for you! Look at my website for full info & lots of photos of this beauty! $1,257,600
STUNNING CARDEL "SANDERLING" HOME ON CUL-DE-SAC STREET! Meticulous 4/2/3 home on oversized conservation lot! This beauty offers NEW A/C in 2015 & water heater in 2016! Homeowners have recently updated the kitchen & 2 baths, all offering granite counters! Beautiful home! $320,000 ! EW E N RIC P
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FORMER HANNAH BARTOLETTA MODEL IN FISH HAWK TRAILS! 4/3/2/3 + office + bonus + loft + pool/spa home that shows like a dream! 0.53 acres with no neighbors on 3 sides! At almost 4,200 SqFt, this magnificent home shows like a dream with upgrades galore! You will LOVE this home! $649,000
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2018 Summer Camps Offer Many Options To Keep Your Kids Active It’s only the start of spring, but before you know, the dog days of summer will be upon us. What can you do to keep the kids entertained? Where can they go to try new things, learn how to swim, meet new friends and have great adventures and even learn about places and cultures far away? There are many options to choose from locally that will fit the bill. The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull out section. Maybe your kids would like to spend the summer ‘horsing around.’ R&R Ranch offers just that opportunity, and not just to learn to horseback ride, but also about the care of the horses. At Music Showcase, music and theatre take the stage and so can your child. Musicals such as Mary Poppins Jr. and Fiddler on the Roof Jr. will be offered, and your child can hold starring roles in these and other popular musicals offered from the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for chil-
dren ages 5 and up. For your actor or musician, check out Firehouse Cultural Center and Patel Conservatory also offer fun and exciting ideas. The local YMCAs will offer many types of camps which mix fun along with great learning experiences. With plenty of choices, there is something for everyone. Mathnasium is the place to help give them a strong start in the fall. For dates, prices and registration information on these and more, turn the page and enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Do you have a child interested in cooking? Check out Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Cooking Camps for Kids through Teens. With weekly themes utilizing agespecific activities and field trips that make BSAC unique, your kids will enjoy every moment of summer camp. Did we miss one? Let us know by e-mailing subject line “Summer Camp” to michelle@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add our full listing online and in future editions.
Camp BSAC
Brandon Sports & Aquatics (BSAC) impacts lives and the community as a whole by providing over 10,000 swim lessons per year, in conjunction with its mission to prevent youth drowning. It also provides quality affordable childcare for working families. There is programming for the special needs population with its Team Trident Program, which is focused on three main areas: active recreation, proper socialization and interpersonal skills, and independent life skills. There is something at BSAC for every child. Over the past 55 years local families have counted on BSAC to provide year-round, quality sports, recreation and educational experiences for their children. We are a favorite of working parents who want to feel good about where they are leaving their kids every day; that the kids are safe, are learning valuable athletic and social skills and are practicing good leadership. Summer Camp at BSAC is a place for all children to be active, exploratory, creative, independent, playful, friendly, and confident. Join in for BSAC’s Passport to Adventure where your child will experience food, games and culture from all around the world. Both full day, half day and drop-in options at an affordable rate are offered. There are field trips weekly for all ages too. Every week the children will ‘travel’
to a new region of the globe, earning passport stamps as they go. They will dazzle you with the stories of their daily adventures as they bring out their inner Beast Mode in Africa and Seas the Day exploring the Islands. Along with the Summer Camp Experience, additional programming, such as swim lessons are offered. The Learn to Swim Program is the most comprehensive swim lesson program in our area, working with ages six months and up. These are conveniently offered during your child’s Summer Camp day.
Bricks4Kidz
Bricks 4 Kidz Tampa is back with awesome LEGO® Summer Camps being offered all over the Brandon, Riverview, and Valrico areas. Join in for a different theme each week such as Star Wars, Minecraft, Ninjago, and much more! Each week our campers will be building signature Bricks 4 Kidz robotic LEGO® models, very popular LEGO® mosaics and 3D LEGO®
sculptures, as well as playing fun games and creating arts and crafts projects they will get to take home. At the end of each week, every camper will get to take home their very own LEGO® mini figure. Each day and week will be a brand new LEGO® adventure you won’t want to miss. Below is the schedule for the camps being offered at nearby locations: We Rock The Spectrum in Valrico, Monday to Friday, June 18-22: LEGO® STAR WARS Camp; July 9 – July 13: LEGO® Movies Camp and July 30 – August 3: LEGO® Superheroes and Villains. Livingstone Academy Campuses in Seffner, Riverview, and Bloomingdale: May 29 - June 1: LEGO® STAR WARSMincraft Mashup Camp (Seffner
Campus); Monday to Friday, June 25 29: Autism Spectrum LEGO Club Brandon Area LEGO Camp Morning Session (Bloomingdale) and July 23-July 27: LEGO® Mashup Camp (Riverview Campus). Sign up today at www.bricks4kidz.com/florida-tampa or call 545-4282.
Musical Theater And Much More Offered At Firehouse Cultural Center
The Firehouse Cultural Center will be offering Summer Camp through the summer. It is located at 101 1st Ave. NE in Ruskin. Week 1: June 4 – June 8 - Musical Theater I; Week 2: June 11 – June 15; Musical Theater II Week 3: June 18 – June 22; Musical Theater III; Week 4: June 25 – June 29; Musical Theater IV Week 5: July 2 – July 6; No Camp on Wednesday, July 4; Week 6: July 9 – July 13; The Art of Printmaking; Week 7: July 16 – July 20; Cartooning & Animation; Week 8: July 23 – July 27; Robotics-Materials Fee for Robotics: $50; Week 9: July 30 – August 3; Robotics -Materials Fee for Robotics: $50. For more information, call 645-7651 or visit www.firehouseculturalcenter.org.
Continued on Next Page
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
• 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 • CITA Approved Curriculum • Security Code Access Entry • FREE Internet Viewing of Your Child’s Day • Outdoor Playgrounds with Water Park • Servicing the following schools, Grades K to 5 Stowers, Valrico Academy, FishHawk Creek, Bevis, Lithia Springs, Alafia, Cimino, and Foundation Christian • Nutritious Meals & Snacks: Low Salt & Sugar Summer Camp • Spanish & Music Included Begins • Trained Professional Staff, Tuesday, May 29th Certified in First Aid & CPR thru • Extracurricular Programs
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SUMMER VPK 2018 & FALL VPK 2018-19 FREE 3 Hr Program
Kids ‘R’ Kids is excited to introduce our first summer camp EVER designed to teach your child that they are an important part of the global community. With a different “world” to explore each week using STEAM strategies and hands-on activities kids will explore all the things our world has to offer – all while sharing loads of laughter and having heaps of fun! Over the course of the summer, your child will build confidence and discover that one person no matter how big or small – CAN make a difference. And when we work together, there’s NO LIMIT to the amazing things we can accomplish to ROCK THE WORLD!
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Dance, Music And Theater Camps Take Center Stage At Patel Conservatory
Registration is now open for Patel Conservatory dance, music and theater summer camps and classes, which begin the week of May 29. Nearly 70 camps and classes are offered, most with performance opportunities, for students of all ages and abilities. Some camps and classes require auditions. Theater auditions will be held March 29, April 19 and May 18 and music auditions will be held April 7 and May 5. Auditions for Patel Conservatory Popular Dance (PCPD) classes will be held April 7. Registration for auditions is required. Additional information about the Patel Conservatory, including audition scheduling, is available at www.patelconservatory.org and by calling 222-1040. Nearly $200,000 in scholarships will be awarded for Patel Conservatory camps and classes this summer. Scholarship applications are available online and the priority deadline is April 16. The Patel Conservatory offers classes in dance, music and theater for students of all ages and experience levels. Each year, the Patel Conservatory and the Straz Center’s arts education programs enrich the lives of more than 70,000 students in our classrooms, on our stages and through the community. The Patel Conservatory is located at the Straz Center, 1010 N Macinnes Pl. in
Tampa. Visit www.patelconservatory.org.
Busch Gardens Offers Exciting And Educational Camp Programs
Busch Gardens’ Summer Day Camp is a time to make new friends, try new things, come face-to-face with a giraffe and challenge North America’s tallest freestanding drop tower. For more than 25 years, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has provided children with inspiring, exciting and educational experiences with some of the best Tampa summer camp options found anywhere. A variety of Summer Day Camps to fit your student’s grade level and interest are offered. Different programs are offered for
kids in grades K through 8th. Day Camps include daily lunches, snacks and drinks, a Camp T-shirt and a water bottle, complimentary photo with a Busch Gardens animal ambassador and compli-
mentary admission to Busch Gardens following camp each day for camper For students in grades 9-12, Busch Gardens offers Counselor in Training. If you are looking for something fun to do this summer, that will provide you with valuable career experience, then the Busch Gardens Counselor in Training program (CIT) is the summer camp program for you. This week-long program offers a real opportunity to learn from the best. Expert educators will share their experience and knowledge with you on topics from child development to zoo careers and environmental awareness. Complete a specialized orientation and participate side by side with camp counselors during the summer day camp programs. Application required. Information is available at https://buschgardens.com/tampa/summer-camps/day-camps/. If your child is looking for a homeaway experience, Busch Gardens Summer Resident Camp offers this chance for students. Busch Gardens Summer Resident Camps have combined nature and thrills to create a unique one-of-a-kind experience. Based out of a
secure onsite dormitory, Mzinga Lodge, camper’s grades 5 through college are provided with an all-inclusive camp experience from start to finish.
Come Experience The World With Kids R Kids
Some of the fun summer programs taking place at Kids R Kids this summer include: Kid Power - Explore heroes around the world to create an unforgettable superhero story of your own that combines STEAM concepts with special powers. Epic Escape – Solve ‘the-who-doneit’ cases from favorite children’s liaterature and global mysteries throughout history. Use secret code detective work, teamwork and problemsolving to reveal the plots of epic literature. Melting Pot – Get involved in making the world a better place by visiting new cultures, exploring unique languages, cooking up new recipes using math and science and creating new traditions for your family. Mind Blast – Build an original, interactive game using recycled materials found in your community. This is a funfocused week that fuses innovation, imagination and conservation.
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Our instructors have 30 years combined professional playing and coaching experience.
Session 1 June 4-8 (M-F)
Session 2 July 9-13 (M-F)
Session 3 July 23-27 (M-F)
Location:
M-W Ostingers Academy Space is Limited Th-F FishHawk Sports Complex Register Early Age Group: 7 - 14 yrs to hold your spot! Time: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm Cost: $175/camper **(Second Child $125) **Multi week discounts
Daily Instruction • Games • Pitching/Catching Fundamentals Addressed • Drills For More Information:
Call 813.737.3000 or visit our website at www.OstingBaseball.com
Pay it Forward – Create a lasting impression on the world by expressing your kindness and goodwill through community-focused projects and cooperative games that will unite everyone involved. Other fun weeks include Creative Destination, Steam Revolution, Cloud Exploration, Habitat Hunters, Globe Trotters and Our Town. Kids ‘R’ Kids has two locations: Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Valrico is located at 4321 Lynx Paw Trail in Valrico. Call 657-6200 for more information and Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Circa/FishHawk, 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. Call 654-7000 for more information. Visit www.krkvalrico.com/programs/2018-summer-camp
Spend The Summer At R&R Ranch Horsin’ Around
Summer Campers will enjoy riding and caring for horses at family-owned R&R Ranch. It specializes in safe enjoyable horse experiences. The name stands for ‘Rest" and "Relaxation’ and also offers pony parties, trail riding lessons, horse boarding, playgroups and horse camps. Summer Camp runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Monday to Friday. Early and late pickup can be arranged.
Student’s ages 6 to 12 years are invited to attend. Campers will enjoy: a daily trail ride or lesson, pony painting, hay rides, lots of games, snowball fight, learning how to care for horses and farm animals, bounce castle, Lunch and disco in the air conditioned camp house. There is a petting zoo with baby bunnies, chicks, ducks and baby pigs. Kids will also get to enjoy arts and crafts and more. Campers should wear closed toe shoes and comfortable clothes. They will also need a swim suit if they want to participate in the water activities. Campers will need to bring their lunch and lots to drink. Sunscreen and bug spray are also recommended. Safety helmets will be provided. R&R Ranch is located at 9805 Bryant Rd. in Lithia. Visit www.rrranchlithia.com.
Improve Math Performance Over The Summer At Mathnasium Brandon
Incorporating math studies into a student’s summer routine brings other significant benefits. “Take advantage of the more relaxed environment of summer break as a golden opportunity to
improve math performance,” suggests Becky McDaniels, Center Director at Mathnasium Brandon and Mathnasium @home. Mathnasium’s new @Home tutoring program will also help students keep up on their math skills from virtually anywhere. “During the summer, children have a lot of unstructured time, allowing them to unplug their busy minds and begin making different connections. These are ideal conditions for effectively absorbing new information and having a sudden ‘aha’ moment when concepts click into place. McDaniels has found the summer months to be a great opportunity for students to work on mathematics and have seen children make great strides with a serious commitment of just two to three hours a week all while having a great time. Call 655-MATH or visit online at www.mathnasium.com/brandon to schedule summer sessions at your neighborhood center or at home using
its Mathnasium @home program and combat the summer slide from virtually anywhere. Mathnasium will also be offering a coding/robotics camp this year on Sunday, June 17 and July 15. More dates to be added based on enrollment. Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico in Plaza Bella.
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Is Cooking Up Some Summer Fun
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium’s Summer Camps are a great way to learn new skills in the kitchen, create tasty recipes, and meet lots of new friends. The only things you need to be prepared are closed toe shoes and a restraint for shoulder length hair. All the ingredients, tools, and even the fun is included. Students are taught how to properly use real kitchen tools, knives, and appliances safely under adult supervision. Students come away with the confidence to prepare dishes that are age appropriate and tasty. The goal is to encourage your child to be a help in the kitchen and to have fun while building a lifetime of good skills. Cooking Camps for kids ages 6-9 will take place from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. daily and the tween’s and teen’s Summer Camps, ages 10-15) will take place from 2-4:30 p.m.
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Camps will take place weekly for four days and run from May 29 through August 2. Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium is located at Brandon Crossroads, 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 653-2418 or visit www.rollingpinonline.com.
Your Kids Will Enjoy Their Best Summer Ever At YMCA Camps
The area YMCA’s offer a lot of options for summer camp fun. With the full day camp experience, campers enjoy days full of themed camp fun like arts and crafts, swimming games and more. Specialty Full Day Camps include time throughout the week spent engaged in activities specific to the specialty chosen. If your camper is looking to spend an entire day immersed in something they are passionate about, the Aquatics, Sports, Teen or Gymnastics camps may be for them. Is your camper looking for a unique adventure? Two camp options may be YMCA Camp Cristina or The First Tee of Tampa Bay. Preschool and Adaptive Camps are offered at a few locations too. For more information at some of the local Y’s, call North Brandon Family YMCA at 685-5402, Campo Family YMCA at 684-1371, YMCA Camp Cristina at 677-8400 and Spurlino Family YMCA at Big Bend Road at 2289622.
Math Help
Enjoy The Summer Scene 2018 At The Florida Academy Of Performing Arts
Full and half day camps are available for kids ages 5 and up at The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) at Music Showcase. Kids will enjoy music, acting, guitar and drums, field trips, singing and games and more. Musical Theatre productions of Mary Poppins Jr., Seussical, Fiddler on the Roof Jr. and Junie B. Jones The Musical Jr. will all take place this summer. Daily themes will include Wicked, The Greatest Showman, Frozen, Hamilton and more. For more information, call 490-2787 or visit faopa.org.
Second Annual FamilyFriendly Summer Camp Expo
The Family-Friendly Summer Camp Expo (Tampa Edition) will kick off on Saturday, April 7 from 4-7 p.m. at the George M. Steinbrenner Field in connection with the Tampa Tarpons MLB team Inaugural Home Opener. When families pre-regis-
Math Enrichment
Test Prep
ter online, they can take advantage of discounted $1 admission tickets to the Expo and the game. The Summer Camp Expo will offer a one-stop shop to local summer camps, summer activities, special needs camps, family products and services. The first 250 families will receive a free swag bag. Kids can run the bases, get player autographs, enjoy a fun Kids Zone, live entertainment, and so much more. There will be lots of giveaways and prizes up for grabs. Make sure to stay for the post-game fireworks. Visit FamilyFriendlyTampaBay.com for ticket
Learn Baseball From The Pros At Ostingers Academy Baseball Camp
Ostingers Academy will hold Baseball Camp this summer to give your child a better understanding of the game of baseball, through instruction, drills, and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp. Ostingers staff is made up of all former professional players who instruct, teaching the game from the ground up. The camp is not a full day camp with video games and indoor activities.
Jim Osting is a Baseball Instructor with 120 years of professional baseball playing experience including two years of Major League Experience (Padres and Brewers). Patrick Ryan is a Baseball Instructor with eight years professional pitching experience. Kris Wilken is the Head Baseball Coach at Bloomingdale High School and has six years of professional playing experience College and high school players trained by Ostingers Academy will assist your child throughout their camp experience. Additional help is provided from Ostinger players current and past to make the campers experience one of a kind. Camp weeks run Monday to Friday, June 4-8, July 9-13 and July 23-27. Camps run half days from 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Camps are held Monday to Wednesday at Ostingers Academy and Thursday and Friday at the FishHawk Sports Complex. The cost is $175 (multi week/multi camper discount). For more information or to register, call 737-3000 or visit www.OstingBaseball.com.
Summer Fun
Avoid The SUMMER SLIDE! Summer Topics
• Curing Finger Counting • Focusing on Fractions • Having Fun & Building • Confidence in Math
• Preparing for Middle School • Maximizing ACT/SAT Math Skills • Previewing or Reviewing • Algebra I & II or Geometry
Now Enrollin g for Summer
Mathnasium has two options to serve you with an In-Center experience or an @home experience.
Beach Side, Cliff Side, or World Traveler; take Mathnasium@home anywhere!
813-655-MATH Brandon’s Big Green “EggQu arters”
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TechPlayzone Offers Hands-On Technology Enrichment In Fun & Safe Environment
TechPlayzone has led the charge for engaging young people in science, technology, engineering, and math since 2005. With an increased demand for hands-on technology enrichment, TechPlayzone has continued to provide families with excellent curriculum, and fun in a safe environment for all kids. Give your child a high-tech advantage at
SUMMER CAMP
TechPlayzone this summer. TechPlayzone is pleased to offer 4 weeks of STEM Camp for beginning and returning TechPlayzone campers in 2nd5th grade. TechPlayzone is honored to partner with FIRST LEGO League at Hillsborough Community College to power the FIRST LEGO League Camp. We also offer engineering enrichment specifically for 6th - 8th grade students. Using TechPlayzone's formula of hands-on project-based learning with cutting edge technology, students can work
AT T.L.C.’S GYPSY HAVEN! For ages 7 - 99
at their own pace or work as a team with the assistance of facilitators and staff members to complete one of the engineering projects each week. For information, visit techplayzone.com, call 6847329 or email techplayzone@gmail.com.
Find Fun Activities For Your Budding Artists At Center Place Fine Arts
Who knew that art could be so much fun? This summer, you can sign up your budding artists, ages 7 to 16, for workshops at Center Place Fine
NOW REGISTERING Limited Space (8 spots weekly) Call TODAY!
Weekly Themed Horse Back Riding Camps Hands On Experience & Education
Come learn about:
RIDING • GROOMING Monday - Friday Camps 9 A.M. to 2 P.M.
With Friday field trips!
June 4t h - August 3rd We are just ten minutes east of FishHawk! Visit our website at TLCSFARMS.COM. 4325 Keysville Rd., Lithia • Call Tammi at 813.842.4236.
Motorized LEGO® and LEGO® Art Projects
Full Week Camps Half Day and Full Day Options Ages 5-12
Camp locations all over Brandon • Riverview • Valrico Lithia • Fishhawk Early Bird Registration and Sibling Discounts To find out more and to register please visit
www.bricks4kidz.com/florida-tampa
or call us at 813-545-4282
Arts. Learn about painting, drawing, pottery, modeling and more. Workshops include Art Mural, Be Your Own Beautiful, Creative 3-D Masks, Discover America, Paper Sculptures, Recycled Art, Space Art, Wet & Wild Canvases, Drawing and more. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr., Ste. B in Brandon. Classes are offered from Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register today by calling 685-8888 or visit www.centerplacebrandon.org.
Bricks 4 Kidz Tampa is back with awesome LEGO® Summer camps being offered all over the Brandon, Riverview, and Valrico areas! Join us for a different theme each week such as Star Wars®, Minecraft®, Ninjago®, and much more!
Art Monkey
Join in the fun this summer at Art Monkey Summer Camps, which will meet from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Camp is open to children ages 8 and up. Art Monkey offers a lot of creativity using pottery, clay, tie dye, mosaics and more. The Art Monkey is a wacky, fun, funky, and awesome place to express your creative side. Weekly themes will have coordinating projects. The participants will enjoy ‘Fun Friday’ with a movie and pizza party. The cost is $240 per child per week. You can register at www.artandicecream.com. While at Art Monkey you can enjoy some of the best ice cream around. Walk-in pottery and canvas painting as well as birthday parties, special events, classes, camps, and girl's night out are also offered. We have something for every age! Come join us today and check out what you've been missing For more information, call 3159803.
Summer Camp At T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven
Your kids, from age 7 and up, will have a lot of fun enjoying weekly themed horseback riding camps. They will receive hands-on experience, learning to ride as well as how to groom the horses. Camp takes place Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. starting Monday, June 4. Your kids will enjoy field trips each Friday they are at camp. Just 10 minutes from FishHawk, T.L.C. Gypsy Haven is located at 4325 Keysville Rd. in Lithia. For more information, call Tammi at 842-4236 or visit www.tlcsfarms.com.
Florida Hawks
The Florida Hawks will be offering two camps this summer. Soccer Fun With Coach Juan Soccer Fun with Coach Juan will
T.L.C.’s Gypsy Haven is now registering for summer camp. With limited space (8 spots weekly), you will want to call early.
take place July 2, 3, 5 and 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Camp is for boys and girls born between 2006 and 2011. Kids will receive age appropriate technical and tactical instruction - small sided games - daily 5 v 5 competitions - daily soccer tennis and soccer golf competitions. There is a professional coaching staff and athletic trainer onsite. There will be a hydration station and camp -shirt Your child must bring readiness to have a lot of fun playing soccer as well as cleats, shin guards, and a ball. A snack and water bottle should also be brought to camp. The cost is $ 215. Goalkeeper Summer Camp Goalkeeper’s Summer Camp for male and female goalkeepers will take place July 23 to 27. Age Groups include – 10U, 11U 12U, 13U and Up, College Level. Features include: Daily session of specific, age appropriate Goalkeeper Skills; Daily session of tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position; Daily Video Session on technical and tactical aspects of the Goalkeeper Position; Daily “Only a Goalkeeper can do it” Competition; Daily Crossbar Challenge Competition; Daily Goalkeeper War Competition;
Experienced Coaching Staff and optimal Coach to Player Ratio; Athletic Trainer onsite; Hydration Station; Camp T Shirt and Written Evaluation at the end of Camp. Your Goalkeeper must bring every day: Readiness to work hard, very hard; Gloves (two or three pairs due to the wetness of summer); Two sets of goalkeeper gear (same as above); Cleats, shin guards, and a ball; Lunch and Water bottle. The cost is $495 for the week. Camps will be held at the FishHawk Sports Complex Soccer Fields. Register online for both camps at www.floridahawksfc.com.
FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club Offers Tennis For All Levels Of Skill FishHawk Ranch Tennis Club is offering its Sixth Annual Tennis Camp for your child ages 6 and up. Full day camps include plenty of tennis games and fun. Kids cool down in an air conditioned event room, and during lunch times engage in other fun outdoor and indoor games. On Fridays, campers walk down to the Starling pool and game room for a nice finish to the week. All levels from Beginning to Advanced. Register online at FishHawkRanchTennisClub.com or call the Pro Shop at 681-4000.
Summer Camp at
Camps Dates:
May 29th through
Looking for Summer Camps? We have TWO offered by Professional Licensed Coaches & Trainers! At Fishhawk Sports Complex Soccer Fields
Summer Fun with Coach Juan! Technical & Tactical Soccer instruction with clinics & competitions
July 2, 3, 5, and 6, 2018 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
August 3rd Sign Up for
We specialize in horse experiences for S u m m e r C am p the young child and beginner riders. Space is limited. • Daily Trail Rides & Hay Rides O n ly $ 2 2 5 p e r wk . (Mon. thru Fri. 9am - 5pm) • Horse Education We Also Offer: Field Trips, Pony Parties, Trail Rides, Play Groups & More 9805 Bryant Rd Lithia, FL 33547 Visit us on the web: rrranchlithia.com
F or more info call 81 3-653 -3 819
Boys and Girls born between 2011 and 2006
$ 215.00
GoalKeeper Camp Daily skills competitions and training sessions to improve position specific skills
July 23-27, 2018 8:00 am to 2:30 pm
Boys and Girls born before 2011 (U8 and up), including College Level Athletes!
$ 495.00 Register online @ www.floridahawksfc.com
Award W inning STEM Camps Since 2005 Where Bright & Creative Kids Play to Learn
Let Your Child Use Their Imagination This Summer At The Art Factory’s Summer Camp
By Kathy L. Collins
If you have a child between the ages of five and 18, and they would like to try a creative, unique and arts filled summer camp, then the Winthrop Arts’ Art Factory Summer Camp is a perfect fit for them. The Art Factory, the arts education programming of Winthrop Arts, is The Art Factory offering a three-week summer camp this June. Campers, ages five to Summer Camp 18, can come out and use their imagination as they create unique one-of-a kind artwork. will run for three weeks in the Summer Camp is Use Your Imagination. month of June beginning on Monday, During week one (June 4-8), June 4. Camp will be held Monday campers will work with Bryant Martinez, through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 the Winthrop Town Artist and Lead p.m. Instructor at the Art Factory to create an Campers can choose to attend one imaginary carousel in front of the Art week or all three. Each camp is priced at Factory. Martinez said, “We have always $80 per camper. There is no registration wanted to install an old-fashioned fee, and the cost includes all materials, carousel at Winthrop. Now, we will get the snacks and a free t-shirt (one per chance to do just that.” camper). Campers are divided by age During the second week (June 11and space is limited. 15) campers will again work with Martinez Campers will have the opportunity to to design, create and install a public art become immersed in art as they spend piece on Winthrop property. This year, three weeks working with professional campers will create small pieces that will artists. They will work with different medicome together to form a larger mixed ums to create one-of-a kind artwork. This media mural featuring indigenous animals year, the theme of the Art Factory and flowers.
Now in Riverview (in Lowe’s shopping center off of Hwy 301)
During the third week (June 1822), campers will work with other Art Factory Instructors, including Amy Estes, to create works of art using fabric. Campers will make unique items such as flags, canopies and lawn sails. They will learn creative
techniques such as sewing, stitching and printmaking. Younger children (ages five to seven) will work to create similar projects but on a smaller scale with more emphasis on take home arts and crafts items. Last year was the first year that Winthrop Arts offered the Art Factory Summer Camp, and it filled up quickly. To register your child or to get more information on this year’s Summer Camp, please visit www.winthroparts.org, or call 7585161 or email info@winthroparts.org.
April 2018
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Seal Swim School Opens Newest Indoor Location In Riverview By Michelle Caceres
Rainy days don’t conferences a couple bother Seal Swim times a year,” she School owner Micha said. Seal, who has It was at a conopened her newest ference that back location in Riverview. floating was emphaHer learn-to-swim sized as an important programs are offered technique children in a state-of-the-art need to master when 70’ x 25’ indoor pool learning to swim. It whose water temper- Children of all ages learn to swim at the has now become a Swim School located ature is kept at a con- newly-opened inSeal key component in Riverview. stant 90 degrees. her program. That’s not the only benefit of Seal’s Small group lessons low four to one indoor pools. student to teacher ratios. Private lessons An advanced sanitizing system uses are offered. Classes are broken up by ultraviolet light to eliminate micro-organage and ability. Classes offered include isms. A dehumidification system keeps Water Babies (newborn to five months humidity levels stable for optimal comfort. old), Parent/Tot classes (six to twenty-four Twenty-four-hour system monitoring months old) and group lessons for ages alerts maintenance if the water balance two and older. Private lessons are also needs adjusting. Water cycles though the offered for children aged six months and enormous filter every 90 minutes. older. “I spare no expense for the water An air-conditioned parent viewing quality of my pools,” said Seal. area allows for parents to comfortably Located at 10459 in the Lowe’swatch their child learn to swim. Changing anchored Riverview Towne Centre shoprooms are also available for children not ping center, the team at Seal Swim wearing their suit to class or those who School are the leading water safety eduwant to change into street clothes after cators in the area who have been teachclass. ing children and adults to swim for more It’s never too late to learn to swim; than 40 years. adult classes are also offered. Instruction Its instructors are certified in CPR, is available from beginners to those hopFirst Aid and water safety instructor and ing to improve their stroke techniques. lifeguard training. Seal Swim School’s hours are Seal said the continuous education Monday – Thursday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. and about the latest learn-to-swim trends Saturday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Fridays it will be gives them an edge on the competition. open for registrations only. “My instructors receive in-service training For information, visit www.sealswimconstantly and my managers and I go to school.com or call 229-7946.
RD EST ECR PIN HIA LIT
MIL S. LER RD
Dr. Branning Hollis, O.D. Dr. Mona Kardani, O.D. FAAO
BLOOMINGDALE AVE
We accept VSP, Eyemed, Cigna, Aetna, Tricare, United Healthcare, Davis Vision, and more. *see store for details
813-654-0220
3307 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico (Corner of Lithia Pinecrest and S. Miller Rd)
www.myfloridaeyecare.com HOURS
T U E S - F R I 9 A M - 6 P M , S AT 9 A M - 2 P M
Volume 17, Issue 4
April 2018
Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Page 55
King Lions Claim 2018, 38th Annual Saladino Tournament Title
By Nick Nahas
The 38th annual Saladino run on a single by Brinson. They would Tournament final featured two of the later add an insurance run in the top of dominant programs in Hillsborough the 7th with Addison Barger scoring on a County, the Alonso Ravens (8-4) and the wild pitch to make it 6-4. King Lions (9-1). The Lions were victoriAlonso would try to mount a comeous, winning 6-5 and claiming their third back in the bottom of the 7th down by Saladino Tournament title. They won six two, but would come up a little bit short. games over the week-long spring break They made it 6-5 on a single by Jaiden tournament. “This means a great deal to Underwood with a runner on third. King the players, the coaches and the parshortstop and Saladino Tournament MVP ents,” said Head Coach Jim Macaluso. Barger came into pitch for the first time in “It’s a big deal.” two years and struck out Nick Gonzalez The Ravens, led by head coach looking with the bases loaded to earn the Landy Faedo have appeared in four save. “I wanted the opportunity,” said straight tournament finals, but lost the last Barger. “I knew I was going to get it done. two, to Steinbrenner in 2016 and to Jesuit It was a lot of pressure, but that’s last year. The Ravens what I want. have won the That’s what I tournament four live for right times overall there, that (2007, 2009, 2010, moment.” 2015). The Lions, The Lions led by legendary were coached head coach Jim by Jim Macaluso, in his Macaluso’s 43rd season, have son, Anthony won the tournament Macaluso, two times (1983 and because the 1992), but its been 26 older Macaluso The Lions do years since their last g-pile after th was ejected in ding up. in e win. w r e the title. Barg the first game of Addison Ihostean inning on an error by The Lions got on the the day in the Montes later scored on the King third baseman semifinal win against Sickles when he board first, taking a 1-0 the same wild pitch, Zarrian Brinson. lead in the first on a throwing error by argued a close call at third base. Being giving the Ravens a 3King, who showed the captain of the ship made the victory Alonso catcher Gabe Montagna trying to 1 lead. resilience all night long, that much sweeter for the younger pick off the runner at second. Alonso Saladino Tournament MVP, Addison King fought back in Barger. fought back once answered in the bottom of the inning, Macaluso. “He is our head coach, he’s the top of the third, again in the 6th inning, tying the score scoring three runs of their own. Ryan also my dad, he shouldn’t have been scoring on a double by Justice and then taking the lead and not looking Drumheller led the inning off with a single, thrown out in the first place, so to go and Thompson and a single by Jamarcus back. Hishaam Shafiq singled in the tying win it for him made it even more sweet,” and ended up scoring on a double-play, Lyons, tying the score at 3. Alonso then run and would later score the go-ahead tying the score at 1. Robert Curry and said Anthony Macaluso. took back the lead 4-3 in the bottom of
FLORIDA AQU
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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition
Volume 17, Issue 4
Exceptional Care for the Whole Family Providing family medicine focused on prevention, health & nutrition. Experienced in teaching lifestyle modification.
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Come Meet Your Medical Team Frank Sirchia, MD & Jasmine Siska, PA-C Conveniently located at Winthrop Town Center 2nd floor in building behind Regions Bank 6037 Winthrop Commerce Ave., Ste 201, Riverview
• Same Day Appointments • Acute Care • Chronic Disease Management • Nutritional Health and Supplements
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