NEW! Brandon/Winthrop
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NFL Players Bring Charity & Friends To Visit Kids At Brandon Regional
By Nick Nahas
can do anything that you want to.” According to the website, the DRC Foundation provides opportunities to disadvantaged youth through programs and events that address the educational needs, social elements, and economic hardship of young people and families in underserved communities. Photos Courtesy of Nancy Nahas
Corey Coleman interacting with a young fan at Brandon Hospital.
Shaquill (right) and Shaquem Griffin partaking in fun activities.
The former NFL 1st-round pick has a scholarship fund which awards a scholarship to a student-athlete from the Bradenton area. He also partakes in several other programs that help underprivileged youth, such as his Holiday Program and the Dreambuilders program that provides essential nutrition to kids in need in the New York City area, and it also supports the St. Jude’s Research Hospital, and its efforts to find cures and save children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. An 11-year NFL veteran, RodgersCromartie is currently a free agent and wants to sign with another team to continue playing in the NFL. For more information, or if you would like to donate to his cause, you can visit his website at DRCFoundation.org.
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Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, former New York Giants cornerback, visited Brandon Regional Hospital on April 7 to spend time with kids in the hospital. He and a few of his NFL friends joined the children in doing artwork and visiting with them. Rodgers-Cromartie said he wanted to celebrate his 32nd birthday by doing something meaningful for the community. He played football at Lakewood Ranch High School in Bradenton and later went on to play college football at Tennessee State. Players that were a part of the festivities include Browns wide receiver Corey Coleman, Ravens safety Anthony Levine, Cowboys defensive end Damontre’ Moore and twin brothers, UCF standout Shaquem Griffin and Seahawks cornerback Shaquill Griffin. Rodgers-Cromartie also put together a celebrity basketball tournament in Palmetto to raise money for his charity, the DRC Foundation. “It means a lot,” said Rodgers-Cromartie. “Any time you can come back and have a platform, I think you should always use it and be a part of the community, and let everybody know that if you believe in yourself, you
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April 2018 Volume 13, Issue 4 Ph: 657-2418 P O S I T I V E
C O M M U N I T Y
ECHO Breakfast Fundraising Success Helps Make Riverview Location Possible
By Libby Hopkins
pledging over $35,000 Virginia Woolf over the next five years. once said, “One can“We had a wonderful not think well, love presenting sponsor in well, sleep well, if one Brandon Legal Group,” has not dined well.” Saunders said. “ ECHO has been helpThe money raised ing residents of the at this year’s breakfast Brandon community will go towards launchand beyond live well ing a new ECHO locafor more than 30 tion in Riverview. “Plans years. “We are here are now officially underwhen someone loses way to launch ECHO's their job, gets their second location in hours cut, moves from Riverview,” Saunders another state without a said. plan, or faces eviction,” Saunders and all of said ECHO’s ECHO are so incredibly Executive Director, ECHO of Brandon held their annual thankful for all those Eleanor Saunders. breakfast in March and raised an astounding $90,000. who attended the “ECHO is here to prorecent breakfast and generously gave. “ vide immediate relief.” ECHO gives more ECHO will be their next food drive on clothing per client than any other nonprofit May 12. Non-perishable food items can in Tampa Bay. In addition to clothing, be left in bags next to residents ‘mailboxECHO clients each receive at least 20 es on Saturday, May 12. Postal employpounds of food per family member. Food ees will collect the food on their routes. All that includes fresh meat, eggs, produce, food collected in Brandon, Valrico, cheese, and butter. Seffner, and Riverview will be donated to This past March, ECHO hosted their ECHO. Visit www.echofl.org or call 685annual breakfast. “Our first breakfast was 0935. ECHO is located at 507 N. Parsons held in October 2015,” Saunders said. Ave. in Brandon. “The ECHO Board of Directors and our former Executive Director, Stacey Efaw envisioned an annual fundraising event that would showcase first hand stories, a In This clear presentation of ECHO's vision for Issue the future, and an opportunity for attendees to partner with us in creating a community of hope and stability for neighbors BLOOMINGDALE POSITIVITY..............PG 3 in crisis.” HOA HOT TOPICS ...............................PG 5 This year’s breakfast raised an astounding $90,000 for one morning’s LIGHTNING GRANT ............................PG 6 time. “Yes, $90,000 was raised in one PAINTING FROM THE HEART .............PG 8 morning,” Saunders said. “But, that includes all pledges made over the next GUARDIAN AD LITEM.......................PG 20 five years. When a partner pledged EYE ON BUSINESS .....................PGS 25‐26 $5,000 over the next five years, we were required to count the entire pledge ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT................PG 44 amount. The actual day of netted SUMMER CAMPS ......................PGS 33‐40 $22,000, with the remaining $68,000 coming in on a monthly basis over the SPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 46‐47 next five years.” ECHO’s Board of READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE Directors came in strong this year as well,
Yia Yia's Greek Salad
Pimento Crunch Sandwich
Bloomingdale High School seniors Tony Alvarez and Gianna Rivera, winners of the Fresh From Florida Student Cook-Off, are headed to the national competition in Kentucky this month. The students served their winning dish, the T&G Burrito, to Florida Fresh Chef Paula Kendrick and Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins last month. Pictured here with Culinary Instructor, Chef Rene Marquis.
N E W S
Page 2
Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
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April 2018
Students Use Full Week Of Positive Actions To Make An Impact
By Kate Quesada
Students at Bloomingdale High School participated in Positivity Week last month to push back against school violence and raise money for Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
Bloomingdale High School students used a unique strategy to make an impact last month. The school’s Student Government Association (SGA) members encouraged all students to participate in a Positivity Week in an effort to push back against school violence. Events throughout the week included High Five Monday, Team Kindness Tuesday, Compliment Thursday, where students were encouraged to write a compliment slip, supplied by the SGA, during lunch and share it with a peer, and Fist Bump Friday. “A fist bump, a compliment, a high five - they are small gestures from a classmate that could make a big difference in a student’s life when it comes to feeling connected and involved at school,” said Hillsborough County Public School’s Media Outreach, Tanya Arja. According to the school’s S.G.A. teacher sponsor, Amanda LaFoe, the idea for the week was initiated at a monthly district S.G.A. meeting after the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. “Our goal is to create a district wide initiative to encourage students to get to know their peers through positive actions,” said LaFoe, who also teaches Government and History at the school.
Page 3
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
“We are trying to build a trust among our students. Letting the students build trust with their teachers and faculty members, I think that’s what’s happened recently.” Students feel that the message from the week will leave a lasting impact. “I find that a lot of times, people just walk in the hallways and look the other way,” said Senior Haley Lazzara. “I’ve been making it my mission to reach out and say hi to people in the hallways more than I usually do, just so people feel welcome and comfortable, and make them feel better about themselves and better about the community they’e in and the school they go to every day.” Students also raised money for Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School through the purchase of maroon shirts which they wore on the Wednesday of Positivity Week. “I hope that Positivity Week sets precedent that we are here together,” said Senior Ashley Russell. “If you have a problem, you need to talk to somebody and know that you are not alone.” Bloomingdale High School is located at 1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For information, at 744-8018 or visit www.bloomingdale.mysdhc.org.
FDSWF Partners With Pepin Academies
By Ann Foyt, FDSWF President
• Custodial Pepin Academies has recently partMaintenance-Vital nered with the skills like pool mainteBrandon Sports and nanceand other cusAquatic Center todial activities will be (BSAC) to expand taught to interested Pepin's transition prostudents. gram to the area. The • Medical Centre for Unique Services-Courses Abilities has been creoffered help students ated and is now learn skills like medaccepting new stuical support, Moffitt dents for the Cancer Center supAnn Bouchard, Ed. S Brandon Campus. port, and medical polDirector (r) of Pepin The Centre provides icy compliance. Academies stands with Ann Foyt, President of FDSWF, who was training for transition• Criminal Justice excited to hear about the new Pepin al students 18-22 Services-Courses Academies Centre for Unique Abilities. years old, post high offered help students school or with a deferred diploma. demonstrate mastery of competencies, Orientation starts Saturday, May 14. including scanning, document retention Class times are Monday to Friday from 8 and destruction and policy compliance a.m.-2:30 p.m. within the Criminal Justice Department. For older students past the age of 22, The program offers students the there is a Grant program which lasts only opportunity to work in supervised apprenuntil June 30. Please apply as the grant tice positions with many major companies funding covers tuition and all ancillary throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Pepin costs needed to provide education to Academies are tuition-free charter each student. schools, with campuses in Tampa, The goal is to provide individuals with Riverview, and New Port Richey serving learning disabilities the opportunity to students with learning disabilities in develop work skills. grades 3-12 and age 18-22 since 1999. The newly expanded program offers If you feel the Pepin Academies the following areas of work-training: Centre for Unique Abilities is the right pro• Automotive Services-Students will gram for your child, please call. Seats are master window tinting, auto detailing, car available on a first-come, first-served assembly, interior trim and more. basis and will fill quickly. Grant funding • Business Administration-Students covers tuition and all ancillary costs needwill learn important customer skills and ed to provide education to each student. become Microsoft Office proficient. For more information or to set up an • Childcare Services-Students will appointment, please contact Ann K. learn how to work in a childcare environBouchard at 203-3806 or email ment. abouchard@theacademies.us.
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Page 4
Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Bay Life Supports Missions Through Cars And Crafts At Popular Car Show Bay Life Church will hold its 13th Annual Car Show and Craft Fair on Saturday, May 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on its church grounds. The familyfriendly event will feature more than 450 cars and trucks, local craft vendors, live music, raffles, refreshments and child activities. The Bay Life Car Show has become a staple in the community with crowds reaching upward of 3,000 guests. With an increasing number of attendees and displayed vehicles, the car show is a far cry from its humble beginning of only 20 cars. All makes and models of cars are welcomed with more than 10 categories receiving trophies. Although the show car registration is free, Bay Life is requesting that car show participants make a voluntary $10 donation to support missions. “The car show supports our high school student and adult mission trips,” said Steve Schumm, Bay Life’s Mission Director. “This is our largest fundraiser to support missions. This year we are going to Honduras, Africa, New York City and North Georgia.” In addition to the hundreds of cars on display, the event hosts live performances
By Amanda Boston
Bay Life is expecting more than 450 cars at this year’s car show
from Bay Life’s Car Show band, Legacy, which is composed of musicians and artists from the church. The band assembles specifically for the car show and plays classic rock music and other tunes. Other entertainment on site will include bounce houses and skits for the children, shopping and chances to win door prizes. He continued, “The youth will be out there doing a lot of the work like taking car registration, entertaining children and selling food and raffle tickets. ” Participants may register their vehicles online at the Bay Life website or on the day of the event. Last year, due to its popularity, some cars had to be turned away because of space restrictions. To register a vehicle or sign up to be a vendor, please visit www.baylife.org/bay-life-car-show-craftfair/. For more information or questions, email missions@baylife.org. Bay Life is located at 1017 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon.
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April 2018
Page 5
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
W W W
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O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R
Is your landscape with Tampa Bay Water. both eye-catching and “Water-Wise landscapes water-efficient? If so, also protect the environnow is the time to enter ment by minimizing fertilthe 2018 Tampa Bay izer and pesticide use Community Water-Wise and by reducing Awards and you could stormwater runoff.” win a custom-made, The selection mosaic landscape stepprocess consists of two ping stone, recognition Tampa Bay Community Water-Wise elements: an online by local elected officials Awards are currently seeking appli- application and an oncants with landscapes that are and neighborhood bragsite evaluation. All attractive and eye-catching. ging rights. entries will be reviewed In partnership with the University of by representatives of the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Florida IFAS County Extension, who will Sciences (IFAS) County Extension then schedule on-site evaluations for all Offices and Florida Friendly Landscaping entries that meet the core criteria. The Program, Tampa Bay Water is looking for online application takes between five and residents, businesses and community 10 minutes to complete and requires a organizations who are committed to conphotograph. serving water resources and protecting “The Tampa Bay Community Waterthe environment by using attractive, water Wise Awards program is a way to engage efficient landscaping. with the community and encourage more The water-wise awards are designed residents and organizations to make effito benefit the region and protect the envicient use of our water resources and proronment by encouraging residents to use tect our drinking water sources from polless water by creating landscaping that lution,” said Dave Bracciano, demand has minimal maintenance as well as effimanagement coordinator for Tampa Bay cient irrigation techniques. Water. “Native and Florida-friendly plants Tampa Bay water is the largest that are properly placed are able to thrive wholesale water supplier in Florida. in local conditions that are typically For more information on how to drought tolerant, while reducing the apply, visit www.tampabaywaterwise.org. amount of grass in the landscape saves Applications are due by June 30. For both water and maintenance time,” said more information, visit www.tampabaywaMarq Caughell, public affairs coordinator ter.org.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 13, Issue 4
Residents Raise Money To Become Top MADD Team In Officer’s Memory
Riverview High Swimmer Uses Lightning Grant To Save Lives
Valrico resident representing 52 teams. Larry Morrell was More than $97,000 was dedicated to fighting raised over all. drunk drivers and MADD About Larry despite the fact that was the highest fundraisthe Hillsborough ing team and the walk County Sheriff’s was dedicated to Morrell Deputy lost his battle due to his commitment to with cancer last year, the group’s mission. his mission to make “Hillsborough County the roads safer lives Sheriff’s Deputy Larry on. Morrell worked daily in the Morrell’s wife, trenches educating the Debbie, a teacher at public, working with estabFishHawk Creek Valrico resident Debbie Morrell hon- lishments that sell alcoored her late husband, Hillsborough holic beverages and on Elementary School, County Sheriff’s Deputy Larry recently raised more patrol arresting drunk drivMorrell, by raising more than than $6,000 when her $6,000 for Mother’s Against Drunk ers,” said Larry Coggins Driving. team, MADD About Jr., executive director for Larry, participated in MADD’s West Central the Mother’s Against Drunk Driving Florida division. “His impact on our com(MADD) Walk Like MADD event in munity and MADD resulted in the creTampa in his name. ation of the Deputy Larry Morrell MADD “Those who knew Larry know that Law Enforcement Officer of the Year the best part of his career was dedicated award.” to removing drunk drivers from our roads “We will be able to continue our vicand preventing underage drinking,“ said tim advocacy program for victims and Debbie. “Larry’s passion for arresting survivors of impart driving crashes and drunk drivers began after a drunk driver will also be able to continue our monthly killed his friend, John Paul and he supVictim Impact Panels that educate DUI ported MADD at every opportunity.” offenders designed to prevent DUI recidiMADD, founded by a mother whose vism,” said Coggins. daughter was killed by a drunk driver, is Debbie has pledged to continue supthe nation’s largest nonprofit working to porting MADD in her husband’s name. protect families from drunk driving, “I will forever be proud of him and I drugged driving and underage drinking. will continue to keep his legacy alive and The recent Walk Like MADD event, held support all he stood for,” she said. in March at the University of South For more information on MADD, visit Florida, was the largest walk in the www.madd.org or call 935-2676. event’s 11 year history with 600 walkers
grant will provide 400 free swim lessons with basic water safety skills to children ages 3 to 13. “In Florida, we are surrounded by water; the drowning rate is too high for our state. I think we need to focus on that,” said Newcomb, who hopes to attend Florida State University next year and plans to eventually attend Riverview High School senior Katherine Newcomb was law school and become a recently named a Lightning Community Hero. She received a grant for $25,000 to help fund swim lessons corporate lawyer. “Water makes up such a big part for at-risk children through the BSAC, in addition to a $25,000 grant for her own education. of our lives, we need to make sure that everyone Riverview High School senior knows how to swim.” Katherine Newcomb is teaming up with “Katherine’s passion for wanting to Brandon Sports and Aquatics Club impact the learn to swim movement at (BSAC) to save lives thanks to a grant BSAC is an example of what one person from the Tampa Bay Lightning. alone can do,” said BSAC CEO Chuck Newcomb was recently named the Burgess. “Her efforts with the Lightning’s 31st Lightning Community Hero of the support will potentially save hundreds of season earning a donation of $50,000 lives.” from the club’s Lightning Foundation.Half The Tampa Bay Lightning introduced of this money will be used as a scholarits Community Hero program in 2011 and ship for Newcomb’s education and the other half will go to BSAC to support their since then more than 300 heroes have been named and the foundation has mission to prevent youth drowning. granted more than $15 million to more A long-time swimmer and now life than 400 different nonprofits in the guard at BSAC, Newcomb realized that Greater Tampa area. residents in the Tampa Bay Area are For more information on BSAC especially vulnerable to potential drownswimming, visit www.mybsac.org or call ing, so she applied for the grant to fund 689-0908. BSAC is located at 405 swimming lessons for at-risk and disadBeverly Blvd. in Brandon. vantaged youth through BSAC’s LearnTo learn more about the Lightning to-Swim Program. According to BSAC Foundation, visit www.nhl.com/lightning. Director of Marketing Carli Walko, the
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April 2018
Page 7
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
County Offers Easy Online Reservation System For Park Amenities
By Kate Quesada
person shelters and ranging to $240.75 for the extra large shelters that fit up to 150 people. All shelter rentals must be made at least three business days in advance of the event and all rentals require payment at the time of reservation. Different parks have different amenities and different rules. Some allow bounce houses from approved vendors and some parks offer facilities such as playgrounds, Many Hillsborough County parks and recreation volleyball nets, basketball and centers have rooms and shelters available for residents to rent. Plant City’s Edward Medard Park has sand volleyball courts, horse10 shelters and many activities and is conveniently shoe pits and swimming located to the Brandon area. With summer approaching, many families are thinking about reunions, group BBQs and wedding and baby showers. It is not always easy to find the perfect location to host these events, but Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation can come to the rescue with 80 different indoor multipurpose rooms and outdoor shelters available to rent throughout the area, each offering different amenities and most with easy on-line reservations. Many of the facilities, from picnic shelters at county parks with grills, electric hook-ups and close restrooms, to indoor meeting rooms with tables and chairs
seating hundreds of people, are available to rent at reasonable prices only a short drive from the Brandon area. One of the many options is Plant City’s Edward Medard Conservation Park. Residents can rent one of 10 picnic shelters of various sizes with grills, electric hook ups and restrooms and also have the option to enjoy the park’s 700-acre reservoir used for canoeing, boating and catch and release fishing. The park also boasts a three-mile trail, a disc golf course, beach volley courts, a playground, boardwalk and observation platform overlooking the reservoir. Fees for the outdoor picnic shelters at Medard, and other locations throughout the county, are dependent on capacity, starting at $42.80 a day for the small 30-
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areas. It is important to read the information and park rules for the specific shelter chosen before reserving. The county also offers indoor meeting rooms with tables and chairs at various locations for resident rental. Some rooms require up to two weeks advance notice for reservations and costs range from $85.60 an hour for a small capacity room, for up to 100 people, to $149.80 for an extra large room which can hold more than 250 people. Events with an expected attendance of 50 or more people must first complete a Special Event Application which can be obtained for the Parks Administration. According to Hillsborough County’s Senior Special Event Coordinator Dana McDonald, the Brandon Recreation Center is one that can easily accommodate 300-350 people. “We have several people say they love using the rec center for family reunions and graduations because it is centrally located and easy for family and friends to get to,” said McDonald. “There are outdoor areas with a playground, tennis courts and sand volleyball, which is unique to the park.” To use the online reservation system, visit www.hcflgov.net/Parks. In person reservations can be made at All People’s Life Center in Tampa and the Branchton Conservation Office in Thonotosassa. Email Recreation_Admin@hcflgov.net or call 272-5900.
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Brandon/Winthrop 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 partnered in the Painting From The Heart for close to five years. The campaign, 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 server.com. Since 2011, nine exterior Heart, 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
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Volume 13, Issue 4
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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April 2018
Page 9
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
New Horizons Welcomes Third Home To Foster Independence For Disabled Adults
By Tatiana Ortiz
Since 1992, the served on the Special Ministries board of direcDepartment of First tors since the Baptist Church beginning. Brandon members These homes recognized the are licensed need for long-term through the living facilities for Agency for developmentally Health Care disabled women Administration and men. A commitas assisted livtee became estabing facilities. lished to investigate With a misNew Horizons Group Homes, Inc. recently the requirements, sion to provide opened the Peter and Brenda Watkins Home, Christian group which led to the its third home, which will house six male development of homes for the residents. New Horizons developmentally Group Homes, Inc. located in Brandon. disabled as it aims to encourage them to On June 1, 1999, New Horizons develop to their full potential, residents opened its first group home called the are also required to care for their own Mary Lou Creamer House with six personal needs, work in the community women as residents. Their second one and more. opened in 2002 called the Alice Storms On a side note, the program is perHome with six men as residents. son centered which means that every Recently their third one was established individual gets help with goals based on on December 2, 2017 called the Peter personal choice and needs. For instance, and Brenda Watkins Home with six men residents learn important life skills such as residents. All of the homes are located as cooking, counting money and more. on the same property. The third home Shelton feels excited for the environopened because of a demand for the ment and population that the organization demographic it serves. works with. “We had a wait list for individuals to "We want to support them as they become a resident at one of our homes achieve their independence and can only and a third home did get built to accomhope that we can continue to be as sucmodate that need,” said Yvonne Shelton, cessful with our previous and current executive director (ALS) Administrator at homes,” Shelton said. New Horizons Group Homes, Inc. For more information, visit This nonprofit organization chose to https://www.newhorizonshomes.org. It is name the homes after its founders. For located at 109 E. Clay Ave. in Brandon. example, Peter and Brenda Watkins Call 571-2690.
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Page 10
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Non-Anesthetic Dental Cleanings Do More Harm Than Good For Our Pets
By Dr. Jennifer Challenger DVM, MPH
Proper dental cleanings for pets are exactly the same as they are for humans. People, however, understand what happens during the procedure and hold still, even though they don't like the way it feels. Pets, however, do not understand and typically will not hold still. They have to be forcibly restrained, which not only is traumatic and stressful, but also may lead to injury of the pet or the person who is attempting to restrain the pet. Non-anesthetic dental cleanings are not the same as traditional dental cleanings; in fact, they do not even come close to a true dental cleaning. Instead, they are more cosmetic in nature and simply remove as much of the visible tartar and plaque build-up that is possible with this type of procedure. In recent years, a cottage industry has evolved that takes advantage of pet owners' fear of having their pets placed under anesthesia. Sometimes it is groomers offering to brush a pet's teeth, which, realistically, doesn't accomplish anything useful (Imagine if you only brushed your teeth every four to eight weeks.) There are individuals, occasionally veterinary technicians or dental hygienists that travel from town to town, offering non-professional dental scaling’s on animals that have not been sedated. The cause of bad breath and kidney problems is the bacteria in the plaque
that is under the gumline. Periodontal disease originates in these deep, odorproducing pockets that require probing and scaling with sharp instruments. There is a reason why our dentists sometimes use nitrous oxide and novocaine shots while they are working under our gumlines; this degree of probing and scaling, which is necessary to complete a thorough cleaning, can be
quite painful. What most pet owners don't understand is that anesthesia actually is considered very safe. A recent study conducted nationally revealed that only one in 10,000 veterinary patients had an adverse experience when placed under anesthesia. Veterinarians have done a great job of educating pet owners about the imperative need for preventative dental care for their four-legged family members. Here's why it is so important; by three years of age, approximately 85 percent of dogs already have periodontal disease that needs medical attention. In fact, many popular toy breeds lose permanent teeth as early as five years of age if preventative dental care is not performed. The new challenge for veterinarians is to prevent pet owners from being lulled into a false sense of security by these nonprofessionals offering an ill-advised procedure.
Volume 13, Issue 4
April 2018
Page 11
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Brandon Area Students Learn About Solar, Science At STEM At Hands-On Expo
By Kate Quesada
energy or hear from the sun.” The winners from the events earned free registration at the Florida Solar Energy Center’s EnergyWhiz Expo next month in Cocoa, Florida. G’kosi Boyce, a seventh grade student from McLane Middle School, won first place in the middle school Junior Solar Sprint competition and Shelby Bain, a fifth grade student from Lithia Springs Elementary in Valrico, won Students from Hillsborough County middle and elementary schools participated in the EnergyWhiz first place in the elementary Expo at McLane Middle School in Brandon last month division. Jelni Robinson and using their STEM knowledge to race cars and cook Iliana Canon from McLane food with the power of the sun. Students from all over Hillsborough County showed off their science and engineering skills with help from the sun last month at the annual EnergyWhiz Expo held at McLane Middle School in Brandon. The event, open to students in fourth to eighth grade, was made up of two events, the Junior Solar Sprint Race and the Solar Cook Off. The Solar Sprint judged cars, created by students and powered by the sun, on design, innova-
tion and performance in a 20-meter, wireguided sprint race. The cook-off was a two part contest where students designed a functional solar cooker and created a dish in it. “The event is a great way to highlight solar energy and its many uses,” said Mike Wilson, McLane’s robotics engineering technology teacher who runs the event. “We host this every year to get students excited about engineering and interested in STEM-based careers. Students who participate are able to design, build and test devices that get
Middle School also earned a spot at the state expo with their unique front wheel drive solar car. “I have a lot of fun building and fixing stuff and learning the mechanics of it all,” said Canon. The Jalapeño team from Chiles Elementary School won first place in the cook-off with a Mexican inspired meal of taco seasoned ground beef and homemade guacamole. According to Wilson, the cook-off event was developed to provide a real world solar thermal challenge for the students. Each team prepared their dish, discussed their cooker with the judges and answered questions from attendees. McLane is one of four schools in Hillsborough County with a STEM academy offering students an opportunity to learn advanced programming and engineering. For more information on McLane Middle School, call 744-8100. Visit www.fsec.usf.edu for more information on the Solar Energy Center.
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Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Chipolte Fundraiser Planned To Support The Potentials Foundation
By Kathy L. Collins
Little but mightying ways to better adapt That is the way James so that the children can Linn of Valrico describes have a more normal life.” his 19-year-old daughter, Allie is 19 years old. Allie Linn. Allie has a She is 42 inches and weighs 40 pounds. form of primordial However, she leads a very dwarfism which is charnormal life. acterized by a much She graduated from smaller body size in all Durant High School, stages of life starting at drives a modified VW bug birth. The Potentials and plans to attend colFoundation provides lege. James said of the support for families and fundraiser and need for funding for research. awareness, “We just want In an effort to bring to make awareness for litawareness and raise tle people and the primorfunds for the Potentials Allie Linn of Valrico is 19 years dial organization. These Foundation, the Linn old and weighs just 40 pounds. family has organized a She does not let her condition, kids are little but mighty fundraiser for the primordial dwarfism, stand in the and can still have a norway of living a normal life. Come mal functioning life. Most Potentials Foundation. out and support her and the of them do very well in On Tuesday, May 1, Potentials Foundation on visit the Chipotle located Tuesday, May 1 at a fundraiser school and can do everyorganized by her family at the day activities. Sometimes at 829 E. Bloomingdale Chipotle located at 829 E. they just need to modify Ave. in Brandon Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. the way they do things.” between 5 and 9 p.m. The Potentials Foundation supports Simply tell the cashier that you are there research that is being done to help proto support the cause, and Chipotle will mote a longer life and wellness. Money donate 50% of the proceeds collected to that is raised at fundraisers like this will the Potentials Foundation. help in diagnosis and proactive medical James explained, “The foundation care. provides a good framework of support. James and Allie Linn will be at There are less than 100 known primordial dwarfs in the world. We luckily know quite Chipotle on the night of the fundraiser. Just make certain that you tell the staff at a few that are in the United States.” Chipotle that you are there to support Allie James added, “A lot of our children have and the Potentials Foundation. had many medial problems through the For more information on primordial years. We can help to offer support for dwarfism and others ways you can help, some of the known medical issues. This includes finding the right doctors and find- please visit www.potentialsfoundation.org.
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April 2018
Page 13
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Celebrate 15 Years of Building Community At Neighborhood Conference
By Kate Quesada
On May 12, When and Where to residents are invited Pull a Permit,’ ‘Let to learn more about Us Be Your Guide’, how to improve which will show resitheir community at dents how to report the 15th Annual issues in the comNeighborhoods munity via phone or Conference hosted website, and ‘A by Hillsborough Conversation with County’s Office of the County Neighborhood Administrator.’ Relations. The con“This year we ference, which emphasizing are The 15th Annual Neighborhoods takes place at the ‘Navigating County Conference will be held on Sat. May 12. Sheraton Tampa East, is expected to Government,’” said Sloan. “We try to draw more than 900 neighborhood, civic always offer workshops and opportunities and crime watch associations from all that will encourage our residents to keep over Hillsborough County. their community safe, beautiful and susWith the theme of Creating tainable.” Community, the event will be made up of In addition to the vendor area and workshops with topics ranging from workshops, the conference also includes ‘Connecting Your Neighborhood to Social the Neighborhood Recognition Awards Media’ to ‘What to Know About Code Luncheon, where the county highlights Enforcement’ and a large vendor area neighborhoods and standout community with local and national businesses, varileaders. In addition, the Children’s Board ous departments from Hillsborough of Hillsborough County sponsors an County and the City of Tampa, homeown- award of $2,000 for the Neighborhood ers association (HOA) attorneys, property Youth Volunteer of the Year. managers, HART, the Alliance for “Anyone that lives in a neighborhood Children with Disabilities and more. or uses county services will benefit from “The goal of the conference is to help attending,” said Sloan. “If someone is a citizens learn how to build a sense of new HOA board member, they can also community and make their neighborget their certification at the conference.” hoods safe, attractive and friendly,” said Registration for then event is availWanda Sloan, Hillsborough County able online at www.hcflgov.net. The event Neighborhood Liaison. opens at 8 a.m. with workshops starting Residents are encouraged to visit the at 8:45 a.m. and ending at 2:30 p.m. The county website to learn more about the Sheraton Tampa East is located at 10221 workshops offered and sign up for the Princess Palm Ave. in Tampa. For more conference. Workshops will include ‘If, information, call 272-5860.
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Page 14
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 13, Issue 4
‘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 Bloomingdale begins at 11:30 a.m. with Golf Club beginShotgun Start at 1 p.m. and follows play at ning at 1 p.m. on NAIFA Dinner The 5:30 p.m. 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. and Bloomingdale some. Fees include 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 http://epilepsysf.org/golf-for-kids/. week under medical supervision. Contributions may be tax deductible, conNAIFA is the oldest and largest prosult your tax professional. fessional association of its kind with over
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Page 15
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Boulevard Salon A One-Stop Shop For Beauty, Conversation & Pampering
By Michelle Caceres
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.
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 13, Issue 4
April 2018
ow, h S n o i h s Fa t n e l a T , r i Craft Fa More… S ho w &
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Brandon/Winthrop Edition
ti,
Enjoy Fashion Show And Luncheon With Brandon Christian Women’s Connection
The Brandon Christian Women's Connection luncheon for May is its annual Fashion Show presented by The Dress Barn. It will take place Monday, May 14 from 11 a.m.-1.p.m. at the Special Event Center at Bell Shoals Baptist Church, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. This is a nondenominational luncheon and all ladies are invited. The cost is $15. First time guests pay $10. Please make a reservation before Monday, May 7 with Lillie at 740-0098.
Get Your Mother’s Day Gifts At Congregation Beth Shalom Crafts Fair All are welcome to a Crafts Fair featuring many vendors selling goods that may be especially wonderful for your wives, daughters, and mothers celebrating Mother’s Day. It will take place on Sunday, May 6 from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Welcome the Sabbath on Friday
evenings at 7:45 p.m. Oneg, nosh and mingle follows. Congregation Beth Shalom is located at 706 Bryan Rd. in Brandon. Call 681-6547 for more information.
The LifeCare Network’s Annual Golf Tournament With Helicopter Drop
LifeCare’s annual golf tournament will be held on Friday, April 13 at the River Hills Country Club in Valrico. Check-in begins at 11 a.m. and is followed by lunch and a helicopter golf ball drop. The shotgun start is at 12:45 p.m. The registration fee is $150 per person and includes golfing, lunch, dinner, a Dri-Fit polo shirt, a goodie bag and contests along the golf course. The LifeCare Network exists to lead those they serve to know Christ, protect the sanctity of human life and promote biblically based sexuality according to God’s plan for marriage. For more information, visit www.LifeCareNetwork.net. To register or become a sponsor for the golf fundraiser, please contact Jessica Rickenbach at Jessica@LifeCareNetwork.net or 6540491. The River Hills Country Club is located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico.
The Greater Brandon Meals On Wheels Program Honors Its Volunteers
The 2018 Greater Brandon Meals on Wheels (MOW) Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Elena LaRussa from First Presbyterian Church of Brandon.
Page 17
Guy Futral, as well as music enterthe President tainment. Vendors will of Greater be present too. Brandon MOW The Health Fair presented the takes place at 2808 S. award to Kingsway Rd. in LaRussa at the Seffner. 42nd Annual For more informaLuncheon held tion, contact Yolanda on Thursday, Mitchum, RN, BSN at April 5 at the 352-615-4552 or yolanFirst Baptist damitchum@aol.com. Church of Become An Organ Dover. More Donor than two hundred MOW vol- From left to right is Barbara Brooks, a board Would you spare unteers attend- member, Elena LaRussa, the recipient of the three minutes of your Volunteer of the Year Award, and Guy Futral, ed the lunchthe President of the Greater Brandon Meals time to save lives? eon and were That’s all it takes – on Wheels. also recogand more than nized for their service to the community. 115,000 people in the United States, The Brandon Area MOW program including approximately 5,800 started 42 years ago through a cooperaFloridians, are counting on you to do tive effort of Limona Village Chapel and just that. How? Register your decision St. Andrew's United Methodist to become an organ and tissue donor. Church. The program has grown to April is Donate Life Month, and I include 19 area churches and currently encourage those who have not yet prepares, serves and delivers approxidone so to visit Florida’s organ, eye mately 250 hot meals per day and tissue donor registry from Monday through Friday in the at www.DonateLifeFlorida.org, where Brandon community. you can find factual information about For more information on MOW, donation, and designate your donation please visit www.brandonmealsonwishes. You can also register when wheels.com. To find out how you can vol- getting or renewing a driver license or unteer, call Guy Futral at 502-432-7477. ID card. One organ donor can save the lives Exalted Word Ministries Presents of eight people, and improve as many First Seffner Community Health Fair as 70 through tissue donation. All major A Community Health Fair will be religions support donation and there are sponsored by Exalted Word Ministries on no costs to the donor’s family. To save Saturday, May 5 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. This lives as an organ and tissue donor, regis a family event so bring your children. ister today Free services will be available: at www.DonateLifeFlorida.org, or say Healthy Food Pre/Taste Seminar, Mini ‘yes’ to donation when getting or renewOlympics for Kids, Pre Diabetic Screening ing your driver license or state ID.
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Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
D ri v e d o o F r e PO Hung CHO, Health B e n e fi t s E e s s E v e n t & & Welln re... Mo ti, Colesan elle by Mich r ver.com d e il p m bse Co ospr eyo @ e ll e h mic
Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive
On Saturday, May 12, the local post offices will collect nonperishable food items on behalf of Tampa Bay Food Pantries. Residents are encouraged to place bagged, non-perishable grocery items next to their mailboxes on the morning of May 12. All items will be picked up by the postal carrier and delivered directly to ECHO. Participating Post Offices include Seffner, Brandon, Valrico, and Riverview. ECHO is also in need of volunteers to sort over 25,000 pounds of food. Volunteers must be 14 years of age or older. Please contact Myriam Lugo: myriam@echofl.org for open volunteer shifts. “This postal food drive is one of the largest events where we receive generous donations of food. Last year we received 20,678.83 lbs. of food. By helping with this event, you are aiding us in gearing up for our second location. Stay tuned for more details on our Riverview location to take an active part in ending hunger.” Myriam Lugo, ECHO Center Director For questions: events@echofl.org.
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Hillsborough County Parks is hosting a Health and Wellness event for active adults and seniors that will be held at Sadie Park, 502 E. Sadie St. in Brandon on Wednesday, May 9 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The event will provide a ‘one stop shop’ of different table exhibitors which will help attendees get involved in programs and activities that may fit their needs.
Riverview Garden Club Speaker On Landscaping
The Riverview Garden Club will host guest speaker Joey Booker on the subject of having a good looking landscape. It will take place on Wednesday May 9 at 10 a.m. at the Riverview Civic Center on 11020 Park Dr. in Riverview. Call 654-6987 for more information.
A Night To Remember Benefitting The Children’s Home Network
Mark your calendars for the Children's Home Network's A Night to Remember event. Together, we will help heal the hearts of abused, neglected and abandoned children, and support thousands of local families in need. This year’s theme, Twisting the
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Breckenridge Toastmasters Inspires TED Talks
Charity Golf Outing At TopGolf Will Support Freedom To Walk Foundation
Breckenridge Toastmasters Club is hosting an Open House event on Friday, May 11 from 6:30-8 p.m. with a special session about developing your own TED Talk. The event is free and open to anyone interested in learning about leadership and effective communication practices found at TED Talk events. Several experienced speakers and Toastmasters storytellers will answer questions and demonstrate how to practice your own world famous 18minute speech that will electrify your audience and inspire change. The event is sponsored by Breckenridge Toastmasters and will take place at the Progressive Contact Center located at 4030 Crescent Park Dr. in Riverview. Follow signs to the visitor center, then check in at security and let them know you are there for Toastmasters. Breckenridge Club President, Christopher Doherty, states “This will be an exciting event for everyone who’s ever considered
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Page 19
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Newly Remodeled DayDreams Day Spa Offers Mother’s Day Packages No matter your lifestyle, everyone deserves to relax, and with DayDreams Day Spa & Bath Shop’s new remodel, you will want to book your trip to tranquility. You will begin your journey in the comfortable relaxation room where you can recline, take a nap, enjoy a light snack, or de-stress. The warm lighting, original artwork, and comfortable furniture complete the cozy-modern atmosphere and optimize your ability to unwind. The owners of the last three years, Niki and Benjamin Herron-Keller, wanted to create an environment through the remodel where “you will feel pampered from the moment you walk in until the moment you leave.” They have accomplished their vision and truly made the spa their own. After spending time in the relaxation room, you can enjoy a soothing array of massages, professional skin
By Amy Schechter
care, body therapies, manicures, and pedicures. Save time for a trip to the sauna as well. Additionally, Herron-Keller and her husband are selective in their staff, sure to choose therapists who are committed to ongoing education. We expect our staff to “treat every-
one who comes in like it is your grandma whom you want to treat to a magical day.” With their commitment to top notch service, they also offer all natural ingredients whenever possible. Before you leave, you can take a bit of your experience home by visiting their bath shop where they
carry a variety of beauty/spa products, specialty coconut wax candles, accessories, and fashion lines, such as local Ybor sleepwear line, FacePlant. DayDreams prides itself on the knowledge-base, professionalism, and experience of its team. They only seek to recruit the area’s leading and most established therapists, several of whom bring decades of experience. Years of practice, combined with DayDreams’ emphasis on training and education, helps to ensure that your therapist will always be a cut above the rest. You can find the perfect gift for yourself or for a love one for any occasion or just because. Mother’s Day packages are available now. For more information, call 657-2992 or visit them online at www.DayDreamsDaySpa.com. The Brandon location is located at 658 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. They also have a sister location in Lakeland at 1463 Town Center Dr. in Lakeland.
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Page 20
Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Guardian ad Litem Program Urges Residents To Act Against Child Abuse
By Tabitha Lambert, Guardian ad Litem Circuit Director
During National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, The Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program challenges residents of Hillsborough County to take a stand and take action to support children who have been abused or neglected. GAL volunteers can make a difference for these children by being a voice in court, ensuring they receive needed services, and helping to work toward family reunification or finding a ‘forever family.’ There are more than 3,400 children in foster care in Hillsborough County. These children come into the child welfare system through no fault of their own. Providing a voice for a foster child is a significant part of successfully navigating the system, and provides a positive role model for a child who may never have had one. “The number of children coming into care continues to grow and we aim to meet the need for each to have an advocate,” said Tabitha Lambert, Guardian ad Litem Circuit Director. “Every child deserves the support of a caring, consistent, trained adult to help them find a safe, loving home where they can heal and thrive.” Throughout April, the Guardian ad Litem program is calling on members of
the community to help serve more of Hillsborough County’s most vulnerable children. Information Sessions are held weekly on Thursday evenings at 6 p.m. Locations can be found at www.galtampa.org. Without intervention, the odds are stacked against children in foster care. A child with a Guardian ad Litem, however, spends about 20 percent less time in foster care as compared to a child without a GAL volunteer. Studies show children with a GAL volunteer also receive more services that are critical to their wellbeing, and are four times more likely to find a permanent home. “GAL volunteers are a constant for the child in a time of chaos,” explains Lambert. “A child may have multiple social workers, attorneys, therapists and foster placements throughout the life of the case but only one GAL volunteer, which can make all the difference for the child’s future.” In Hillsborough County there are currently 686 volunteer advocates fighting for the best interests of 3,468 children, but almost 1,000 more children still need the care and support of a GAL volunteer. For more information how to become a Guardian ad Litem volunteer or supporter, visit www.galtampa.org or call 272-5110.
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April 2018
Page 21
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Achieve Overall Wellness With Healthy Bodies Medical And Dental Center
By Amy Schechter
In a busy Martha Ducatel world, it can be guarantees; their easy to neglect comprehensive your health and approach wellness when ensures you will family, friends, have the time to and responsibilirelate your conties come callcerns and craft a ing. Healthy plan that puts you Bodies Medical on the path to and Dental lifelong wellness. Center seeks to Dr. M. provide excellent Ducatel offers care as well as general dental Join the Ducatel Family at Healthy Bodies the convenience services such as Medical and Dental Center in Brandon. of medical and preventative care dental services in one location. Dr. and cleanings, implants, bridges, crowns, Watson Ducatel, board certified in Internal filings, extractions, root canals, and Medicine and a Fellow of the American whitening or veneers. Anesthesia is College of Osteopathic Internists, and his offered where needed to make your denwife, Dr. Martha Ducatel, a general dental services comfortable and anxiety free. tist, are committed to getting to know their As an internist, Dr. W. Ducatel is commitpatients and working together to craft ted to a hands on approach for diagnoshealth plans that lead to healthier, happier ing and treating disorders of the internal lifestyles. organs and musculoskeletal system. He Their lives interwoven since college, offers well and sick visits, health coachthe Ducatels have a shared vision for ing, obesity and tobacco cessation countheir practice: “In corporate America and seling, chronic illness management, diagin the medical or dental field, there is a nostic and laboratory services, and hospitransactional nature across doctor/patient tal services. interactions. Peoples’ options are often The practice offers plans for patients sub-standard. Our desire is to have relawith or without insurance. There is truly a tionships with patients where we can program for anyone, no matter your situaunderstand their unique positions and tion. For more information, call 540-5005 craft a better healthcare experience.” or email hello@healthybodiesmdc.com. As a patient in their care, there is no Healthy Bodies Medical and Dental need to turn to Google to look up your Center is located just East of John Moore symptoms; you can easily pick up the Rd. at 3415 Brook Crossing Dr. in phone and speak directly to the doctors. Brandon. Visit the office online at “Everyone gets one on one time,” Dr. www.HealthyBodiesMDC.com.
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Page 22
Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
There’s a reason Brenda sells more! She takes care of YOU! Whether buying or selling... the experience makes the difference! ! EW E N RIC P
WESTBAY "KEY LARGO II" HOME IN GATED LA COLLINA! 5/4/3 + office + bonus home! Pavered driveway & elevation w /stone accents! Interior offers hardwood floors, planation shutters, granite & Zodiaq counters, 12ft ceilings & more! Kitchen with 42" espresso cabinets, island & stainless appliances! $665,000 ! G EWIN N T S LI
QUIET SLICE OF HEAVEN! Bring your builder and design your dream home on this beautiful 2.19 acre lot in a magnificent location! No HOA or deed restrictions! Just a short drive to I-75 and the Crosstown! This tree-lined lot will offer tons of shade for any new build! Don’t let this lot pass you by! $189,900 ! G EWIN N T S LI
WOODSY 2.67 ACRE LOT READY FOR YOUR CUSTOM HOME! You’ll be just a short drive to I-75 and the Crosstown! This tree-lined lot will offer tons of shade! Lovely pond at the front of this lot, imagine sipping your morning coffee overlooking the water! Don’t miss this opportunity! $209,900
! EW E N RIC P
! EW E N RIC P
**HUGE REDUCTION**ONE OF A KIND CUSTOM HOME IN DOGWOOD HILLS! 5/4.5/3 + office + bonus + pool home with over 5,000 sq ft on 0.51 acres! Masterpiece of design with wood floors, crown, wood-burning fireplace, wide base, volume ceilings & more! Tastefully updated kitchen & baths! $625,000
CUSTOM EXECUTIVE HOME IN BRANDON! 4/3.5/4 + office + bonus + pool home on 0.6 acres! Hardwood floors, crown, cathedral ceilings, wonderful paint choices & updates galore! Wonderful kitchen with 42" espresso cabinets, granite, island & stainless appliances incl. Wolf gas range! Perfect! $599,977 ! G EWIN N T S LI
! EW E N RIC P
BRING YOUR BUILDER AND CUSTOMIZE THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS! 0.56 acre corner lot is zoned for residential OR commercial! Just a short drive to I-75 and the Crosstown! Investors and business owners bring your plans, this lot has wonderful road frontage! Tree-lined lot offers tons of shade! $129,900 ! EW E N RIC P
2 WONDERFUL LOTS TOTALING 2.21 ACRES WITH CREEK RUNNING THROUGH! Non deed restricted street that is just minutes to shopping, dining, entertainment & a short ride to some of the best schools in Hillsborough county! Central location right off of Bloomingdale Ave! $125,000 ! EW E N RIC P
ABSOLUTELY ADORABLE HOME OF OVER 3,000 SQFT ON 0.56 ACRES! 4 beds, 3 bath, 2 car garage in the charming Dogwood Hills neighborhood! Character galore with wood burning fireplace, skylights for added light, large rooms & volume ceilings! Oversized lanai overlooks your private wooded paradise! $315,000
! G EWIN N T S LI
0.31 ACRES IN THE HEART OF BRANDON! 3/2/2 + bonus home with many updates! Separate formals, updated kitchen, French doors, wood-burning fireplace & more! Bonus area has been enclosed with 10 ft ceilings, built-in cabinets & wet bar! Fully-fenced back yard with pavered space! NEW ROOF 2008! $325,000
GORGEOUS EXECUTIVE HOME ON OVER 1.6 ACRES WITH 2018 NEW ROOF! 4/5.5/4 + office + bonus + pool/spa home! Long driveway & side car garage! Inside offers over 4,000 sqft with crown, generous room sizes, great paint choices, columns & kitchen with 42" cabinets, granite & stainless appliances! Huge yard! $699,000
1.36 ACRES IN THE HEART OF BRANDON! 3/2/2 + pool home that offers NEW ROOF in 2015 & fresh interior paint & new carpet in all bedrooms in 2015! Oversized family room with wood floors, beamed ceilings & fireplace! Kitchen with new stainless appliances & granite counters! $325,000 ! G EWIN N T S LI
LARGE CORNER LOT AT THE END OF A DEAD-END STREET! 5/3/2 + bonus home that lives large! Wood-burning fireplace, soaring ceilings, crown, French doors & chair rail! Large kitchen with cabinets with crown, granite & island! Screened lanai & oversized yard! $359,000
COME LOOK AT THIS BEAUTY ON 0.27 ACRES! 4/3/3 Chadwell home in Citrus Wood! Updates include plantation shutters, Hunter Douglas blinds & fresh landscaping! Family room with fireplace & pocket sliders! Wonderful outside area with extended & screened lanai with pavers overlooking fenced yard! $359,000
Signature Realty Associates Top Producer 2002 - 2017
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0.57 TRANQUIL ACRES IN THE HEART OF BRANDON! 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with carport that has been exceptionally maintained & has no HOA or deed restrictions! Double door entry welcomes you and interior offers neutral paint, kitchen with wood cabinets & white brick backsplash & so much more! $199,900 ! G EWIN N T S LI
QUIET BRANDON NEIGHBORHOOD! 4/2.5/3 home with fresh exterior paint! This home features NEW hardwood floors, wide base, neutral paint, fireplace, updated lighting & baths! Outside is a spacious screened lanai & open pavered patio, all sitting behind a fully fenced yard! $290,000 ! G EWIN N T S LI
CUTE AS A BUTTON, BE PREPARED TO FALL IN LOVE! This 3/2/2 + Florida room home will have you impressed from the start! New roof in 2007 & A/C in 2014! Updated baths & kitchen, tile & Pergo floors throughout, volume ceilings & popular paint choices make this the perfect choice! $245,000
April 2018
Page 23
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Hess & VanLandschoot Orthodontics Announces College Scholarship Hess & VanLandschoot Orthodontics recently announced that it will launch their inaugural Scholarly Smiles College Scholarship and will award two graduating high school seniors with $1,000 scholarships this year. With the rising cost of college textbooks and supplies, the doctors of Hess & VanLandschoot Orthodontics saw a need in the community to start a scholarship program that gives more high school seniors the opportunity to attend college with less strain on their wallets. Hess & VanLandschoot Orthodontics provides quality orthodontic care for children, teens and adults in Riverview, Lithia, Apollo Beach, Parrish and surrounding communities. The scholarship is intended to reward deserving students from the communities that Hess & VanLandschoot Orthodontics serves by relieving them of some of the financial burden college brings on. Application is open to all graduating high school seniors in the Riverview, Lithia, Apollo Beach and Parrish areas.
By Sabrina Culotta
“Higher education is so important, but it can get expensive,” said Dr. Michael Hess. “I hope to make it financially easier for students to attend college through this scholarship. We see many patients that are in high school, and our practice really wanted to start a valuable program to give back to our young people, who will be the future Dr. Toby VanLandschoot leaders in our comand Dr. Michael munity.” Hess are proud To apply for the to announce the scholarship, visit launch of their inaugural www.smilesbringusScholarly Smiles together.com. A brief College questionnaire, 300Scholarship. word essay, and two references are required to be considered for the scholarship. All application materials must be submitted to Hess & VanLandschoot Orthodontics no later than May 11, 2018 to be eligible for consideration. Hess & VanLandschoot Orthodontics embraces the latest advancements in orthodontics to provide lasting results and faster treatment. The comprehensive orthodontic treatment is tailored to meet every patient’s individual needs and desired results. Visit www.hessorthodontics.com or call 645-4377.
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Page 24
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop
April 2018
Volume 13, Issue 4
Ph: 657-2418
See Our Special Section
Ribbon Cutting for Weichert, Realtors® - Brandon Realty.
Ten Year Anniversary Sale At Dog Gone Holistic
Dog Gone Holistic will celebrate its 10 Year Anniversary Sale on Saturday May 5 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Everything in the store is on sale on this day. Save 10% or more on all dog and cat foods and 15% on everything else (sale items and gift cards are excluded). Get a free goodie bag with a $35 purchase. Dog Gone Holistic has a Riverview location at 13131 US 301 S. (374-4743), as well as a location in Lithia at 5620 FishHawk Crossing Blvd. (651-0842). Visit www.doggoneholistic.biz.
ImageLift Helps You Refresh And Look Younger
Would you like to look younger, yet avoid surgery? Do you have a special
event, wedding, reunion, anniverHours are Monday to Dr. Rich sary, or are you Castellano, Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. just looking to Board-certiCall 463-9245. invest in yourfied facial plastic and reconVisit www.ImageLift.com or structive surgeon. self? Facebook.com/ImageLift. Dr. Rich Castellano is an artist and an award-winning double boardChristian Business Connectioncertified facial plastic and reconstrucFishhawk Membership Drive tive surgeon. He is currently the #1 A membership drive meeting will be Bellafill facial filler injector in the United held for the Christian Business States, and he has Connection-FishHawk group performed or 3,500 on Tuesday, May 1 at the Latin facelifts under local Grill, 3318 John Moore Rd. in anesthesia. Before Brandon. Come for the fellowyou have a facelift or ship and networking starting at filler injection, make 7:30 a.m. with meeting beginning at 7:45 sure you meet Dr. Rich. a.m. You are invited to a Facial Beauty For information, contact Jud Cook at Social Mixer Seminar on Thursday, May 699-3197 or jud.cook@cbauto.net. Visit 10 at 1 p.m. at the River Hills Country on Facebook at CBCFishhawk. Club, 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico. Lunch will be served. There will The Way 2 Dance To Hold The Stars be a Grand Prize raffle up to $1200 Showcase Extravaganza value. Call 888-875-3223 as seating is The public is invited to join The Way limited. 2 Dance for The Stars Showcase ImageLift is located at 3314 Extravaganza on Sunday, June 3 at The Henderson Blvd., Ste. 201 in Tampa.
Regent, 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Tatyana Frost, the owner of The Way 2 Dance is hosting the dance competition to showcase students from all different studios in Florida. Live DJ Chris Heath, World class judges, Professional Shows and delicious dinner by Coastal Catering. Tickets for 2-6 p.m. cost $25 for spectators. Tickets for the evening dance, dinner and show (from 6-10 p.m.) are $75 and $45 for the dance and a professional show by nine Dance American Champions. Please RSVP by May 15. For more information, contact Frost at 966-4788 or visit www.theway2dance.com/.
Brandon Realty, Inc. Joins Weichert® National Franchise Network
Weichert Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. recently announced that Brandon Realty, Inc. has joined their national franchise network. The new office, now known as Weichert, Realtors® - Brandon Realty, is an independently owned and operated Weichert® affiliate run by the company’s broker/owner, Nora Redding. The addition of Weichert, Realtors® Brandon Realty continues the franchise’s expansion throughout Florida, now home to 48 Weichert affiliated offices. “We really are excited to be a part of a national brand like Weichert and take advantage of all the resources they can provide to help grow our business,” said
Continued on Next Page
Page 26
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Business Column Continued.............
By Michelle Colesanti
Redding, who purchased the business four years ago from the family that founded the Brandon real estate agency back in 1965. “The online technology and agent training programs Weichert provides will take us to the next level.” Weichert, Realtors® - Brandon Realty is an independently owned and operated Weichert affiliate serving Brandon and surrounding areas. It is located at 211 N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. Call Nora Redding at 4387170 or visit www.brandonrealestateservice.com.
Hands In Motion Committed To Jumpstarting Music Careers
Hands In Motion Music and Ad Media, a company owned and operated by professional musicians and experienced music personnel, is a full service Music Production, Publicity/Marketing Agency and School of Music for those that are serious about their talent. It is committed to doing everything to help you jumpstart and prepare you for a music career. They know exactly what it is to stay up at night thinking, “someday I might just start my dream of…” Hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Evening Recording Sessions by appointment only. Hands in Motion Music is located at 501 Eichenfeld Dr., Ste. 101 in Brandon. Call 573-8290.
In-House Home Care Celebrates Five Years
er bring extensive backgrounds in healthcare, along with very personal experiences in care giving. They embody the ‘Culture of Care’ philosophy with firsthand knowledge of what is to be a caregiver at both personal and professional levels. First Light is licensed by the state and comply with all state and federal regulations and carries Workers Comp and Liability. All staff are employees; not independent contractors. There are level 2 background checks, drug tests, reference check and MV checks. Staff has ongoing training and CEU’s. There are supervisory visits and oversight of all care and activities of staff. Back-up staff is ready if caregiver calls off 24/7/365. Call 677-2047 or visit FirstLightHomeCare.com.
Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group
Claiming your Social Security benefits at the wrong time could cost your family tens of thousands of dollars. A seminar will be held at The HCC campus at The Regent on Thursday, May 3, Tuesday, May 22 and Thursday, May 31 at 6 p.m. (promptly) to help you with these decisions. Plan to be there by 5:45 p.m. This seminar is perfect for people ranging from 58-67 years old. At this seminar you will learn some of the unknown strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking your Social Security benefits. The HCC campus at the Regent is located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Yellowfin Realty’s Amy Tolscer is col- Leave a message lecting for moms and families dealing with abuse. Collecting items through after 4:30 p.m.
Volume 13, Issue 4
wellness into a full-blown career as a With over 20 years of experience as Wellness Strategist, helping others create an owner/loan officer of a mortgage a blueprint for everyday wellness by living lender, specializing in helping thousands an organic, oil infused, chemical-free of VA and first time homebuyers, he has lifestyle. She has combined forces with honed his skills to identify potential probevent planner, Kebbie Rosenberg of lems before they happen and eliminate Ruskin. surprises. These two Roe has a reputation on being ladies have very transparent and honest with joined efforts to his clients and treating every transcreate this year’s action like it was his own. epic women’s Contact Roe at 220-3204 or event, Free Fall tomknowstampa@gmail.com. Visit Tampa 2018, www.tomknowstampa.com. Sunday and Yellowfin Realty Celebrates Monday May Grand Opening Of New Space 6 & 7 from 9 In Brandon a.m.-5 p.m. at Yellowfin Realty, a familyThe Straz Thomas Roe recently joined owned residential real estate Center. Keller Williams of Brandon. agency with offices in Tampa and Eight Jacksonville, recently hosted a grand dynamic speakers and global infuencers opening celebration for the newly renowill be present. Keynote speaker, Darieth vated office space in Brandon at 801 W. Chisolm, is an Emmy Award-winning TV personality, coach, filmmaker and activist, Bloomingdale Ave., designed to provide a comfortable and efficient workspace for a and creator of 50 Shades of Silence, a growing number of agents. Currently, social justice project supporting victims of there are more than 55 agents working in cyber harassment and revenge cyber the Tampa area. porn. You can follow her This is the company’s second locaat www.50shadesofsilence.com. tion in the Brandon/Riverview area. Sponsors and vendors are being Yellowfin’s corporate office is located in sought. Get all information, speaker bios, Winthrop Town Centre, where it continues vendor/sponsor applications to meet with clients and oversee business at www.freefallinternational.com. Contact operations. Malec at 957-0865. The grand opening event featured a Thomas Roe Has Joined Keller ribbon cutting ceremony with the Valrico Williams Of Brandon. FishHawk Chamber of Commerce, as “My number one priority with my well as food and drink from a number of clients is to take my years of experience local vendors including Dough Raw and be able to educate and demystify the Me,The Revolution Ice Cream complex and confusing process of buying Co., Bootleggers Brewery Company, The and selling real estate,” said Thomas Stein & Vine and Commune + Co. For Roe, who recently joined Keller Williams more information, visit www.yellowfinrealof Brandon. ty.com.
First Light Home Care, a trusted inhome care and caregiver resource used by many families in the Brandon area each day, is celebrating five years. The staff considers themselves extended family members; someone May 13 at Yellowfin Realty, 801 W. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon. Call for Free Fall Tampa 2018 you can call on to more details at 245-8519. help you face even – Women Restoring your most difficult challenges, ready to Women Two Day Event provide guidance, companionship, peace Former Bella Garden Boutique of mind and compassionate care when it owner, Maria Malec, has taken her busiis most needed. ness skills to soar to new heights by Owners Rich and Michelle Kase, expanding her passion for health and Janice Bayruns and Terri Hensley togeth-
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April 2018
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 27
Page 28
Brandon/Winthrop 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 all while supporting food and drink options. a good cause. New this year, a sunset There will be 50+ cruise will be offered as types of wine available to an add-on to any ticket. sample and more One hundred per cent of than 20 different local the proceeds from tickets restaurant partners in purchased support The attendance. The fesFlorida Aquarium’s mistive atmosphere will be sion to both entertain and complemented by a educate as well as inspire variety of live entertainstewardship 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.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Call today to schedule an appointment.
813-530-0903
631 W. Lumsden Rd. | Brandon, FL 33511
Volume 13, Issue 4
April 2018
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 29
Dental Office Offers Full Service Care With Family Touch
New Tessera Of Brandon Assisted Living Prepares To Welcome First Residents
Patients looking and partial dentures, for a one-stop dental Invisalign and teeth whitenpractice, need go no ing. further than A & S Along with her husband, Dental in Brandon. Artan, Cervantes is an active Dentist and owner Dr. member of the Brandon Sara Cervantes, who community and a parishioner at Nativity Catholic began practicing 18 Church with a daughter years ago, opened the attending Nativity Catholic office in 2004 offering School. She is also bilingual, residents a full range which she believes has of dental services from allowed her to treat patients cleanings and examifrom multiple backgrounds. nations to crowns and “We moved to Brandon implants. Dr. Sara Cervantes, of A & S Dental in Brandon, is now because we knew the area “Our mission is to accepting new patients. was growing and felt it provide the highest would be a good place to level of dental care to offer my services,” said Cervantes. “We our patients,” said Cervantes, who adds create lifelong relationships with our that she wants to create a dental home patients and their families.” for residents at her office. “We work hard A graduate of Boston University to educate, listen to and understand our School of Dental Medicine and the patients’ dental needs in a caring, honest University of Florida College of Dentistry, and professional manner.” Cervantes is a member of the American Through her use of technology and Dental Association, the Florida Dental state-of-the-art dental equipment, Association, the West Coast Dental Cervantes is able to make sure patients Association and the Academy of General are treated quickly and comfortably. “We use digital x-rays, intra oral cam- Dentistry. The office sees patients of all ages eras to show patients the existing and also accepts emergency walk-ins. restorations that need attention and a A & S Dental is open Monday, Velscope for oral cancer screenings,” she Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.said. 6p.m., Wednesday by appointment only, Each dental exam includes a thorFriday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday ough oral examination, a review of medfrom 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The office is located ical history and a check of gums and at 1532 Oakfield Dr. Ste. B in Brandon teeth. and can be reached at 430-0962. For Additional services include dental more information, visit www.asdentalcrowns and bridges, implants, restoragroup.net. tions, veneers and laminates, complete
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 of 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 Kate Quesada
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Page 30
Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Alliance Group Encourages Parents To Fight To Fund Public Education Last month, Hillsborough County Public School (HCPS) parents received messages from Superintendent Jeff Eakins letting them know that the education budget approved by Governor Scott for 2018-19 included less funding for schools than Members of the Hillsborough Country group The Alliance for Public they were Schools encourage residents to inform themselves on how to improve public education funding in the state. expecting. A the national average. group of activists, led by FishHawk “It’s a joke,” she said. “We are resident Melissa Erickson, wants to facing 25 plus years of chronic help voters determine what to do under-funding. Our children are about it. worth the same as children in other “We were expecting more fundstates.” ing for our students than what was In addition to the already low approved,” said Eakins, in the mesper-child budget, the school district sage that went out to parents on March 22. “Especially since the state has been given what Eakins expects to amount to $35.8 million in addihas billions of dollars available to tional mandated expenses for new fund both school security and classschool resource officers, increased room needs.” retirement contributions and health According to Eakins, the state care costs, among others. budget includes an increase of just “For months, we have been put$0.47 cents per student in flexible funding for the HCPS district. A num- ting cost-saving steps in place across our district and have saved ber that Erickson finds unforgivable considering that Florida children cur- millions of dollars,” he said. “These steps will definitely help, but the rently receive approximately $4,000 less funding, per child, per year than amount of funding in this state budg-
By Kate Quesada
questions,” she said. “Being fired up about issues with your friends and on social media doesn’t change policy. The
only way things are going to change is if we elect people who are going to make changes.” Erickson’s group, The Alliance for Public Schools, was formed in 2012 with a mission to educate, According to Eakins, the state budget includes an increase of engage and inspire just 47 cents per students in flexible funding for the HCPS district which is currently approximately $4,000 less, per child, families and communities to collectively per year than the national average. support high quality et is far lower than we had expectpublic schools and the children who ed.” attend them. He went on to ask voters to let The group hosts events, such as state leaders know they support Parent University, to educate resifunding of public schools, something dents and speak regularly on issues Erickson also feels is vitally imporimportant to public education around tant. the community. To learn more, “People need to inform themsearch for the group on Facebook or selves on how their elected officials visit www.all4schools.org. are advocating for public schools, For more information on HCPS, then show up and ask them, and visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us. those running for office, the hard
4th Annual Impact’s Got Talent Friday, May 11, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. Bloomingdale High School
FEATURING LOCAL TALENTED STUDENTS! Tickets available for purchase: www.impactsgo!alent.eventbrite.com $10/person Doors open at 6:00 pm.
All !cket, auc!on and raffle sales benefit the Impact Program, Inc, presen!ng healthy lifestyles and rela!onships to teens, parents, teachers and other youth leaders through classroom educa!on.
For more informa!on on IMPACT, visit us online:
www.wha"simpact.com
April 2018
Brandon/Winthrop 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 located at 6437 they have ever Watson Rd. in attended. It is a great Riverview. Tickets event with plenty of are $100 per person. Get dressed up in your finest outfit and food and lots of activjoin others as they raise awareness about All proceeds will ben- and much needed funds for The Outreach ities that will delight efit the Outreach Clinic at the 7th Annual Kentucky Derby everyone.” Party, hosted by The Outreach Clinic, on Clinic. Meegan added, Saturday, May 5 at The Regent in The Outreach “All proceeds from Riverview. Clinic's Seventh this event go to help Annual Kentucky Derby Party is a fun the low income, uninsured receive the and exciting event. Your ticket gets you health care they need to stay alive. Most unlimited food samplings, and an open people do not realize that there are so bar featuring Margaritas and Mint Juleps. many residents in our community who There will also be Kentucky Derby Horse lose their lives every year because they Games and a fabulous silent auction. You cannot afford the health care they need. can play Derby Corn Hole for a chance to The Outreach Clinic can do something to prevent that but only if we get the finanwin a Chest of Cheer worth over $500. Watch the Kentucky Derby live on two big cial support from our community.” Meegan said, “You do not have to be screens. a doctor to save a life. Everyone can be a No Kentucky Derby party would be lifesaver.” complete without fancy hats and wellThe clinic provides much needed dressed ladies and gentlemen. Ladies healthcare to those who do not have can compete in the Most Beautiful and health insurance and cannot afford Creative Hat Contest and the Most healthcare. Most of those who are Fascinating Fascinator. Gentlemen can served, have either a part time job or vie to win the Most Dapper Gentlemen receive only minimum wage or are receivand the Most Creative Dapper Guy ing unemployment compensation or Contests. Since the Kentucky Derby falls Social Security Disability. on Cinco de Mayo this year, organizers The Outreach Clinic is located at 517 have added a prize for best Cinco de N. Parsons Ave. in Brandon. For more Mayo attire. information and to get tickets, please visit Debbie Meegan, Executive Director www.theoutreachclinic.com. of The Outreach Clinic said, “This is our
Page 31
AAA Promise Fights Impaired Driving Between Prom And Graduation Thousands of high school students are getting ready to celebrate two of the most memorable events of high school – prom and graduation. However, these occasions can bring deadly consequences to those who participate in underage drinking and illegal drug use. According to a survey conducted in January 2018 by AAA and its Auto Club Group Traffic Safety Foundation, 39% of teens aged 16 to 19 admit they or their friends would likely be under the influence of drugs or alcohol sometime during prom or graduation season. AAA PROMise, a program offered by the Auto Club Group Traffic Safety Foundation, aims to reduce the dangers of impaired driving by providing high schools, teens and parents with communication tools that can help prevent tragedies on these special occasions. “For many, prom and graduation are among the highlights of high school,” said Amy Stracke, Managing Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy for AAA – The Auto Club Group and executive director of the Auto Club Group Traffic Safety Foundation. “These events should be a time for celebrating and looking forward to the future not defined by tragedy.” AAA PROMise encourages teens and their parents to talk about the dangers of underage drinking, illegal drug use and impaired driving. This includes having a plan for a safe way home during prom and
Staff Report
graduation season. Should the teen be in danger of driving impaired or riding with someone who may be impaired, parents can pick their teen up and AAA will tow the car home free of charge, AAA member or not. “When we surveyed teens, most felt that their peers would be likely to drive impaired instead of calling their parents to avoid getting in trouble,” said Matt Nasworthy, Florida Public Affairs Director, AAA - The Auto Club Group. “When parents and teens can speak openly about the dangers of impaired driving and agree on a plan beforehand, it greatly increases everyone’s chances of getting home safely.” Free AAA PROMise toolkits are available to high schools interested in helping protect their students from the dangerous consequences of impaired driving. For more information on AAA PROMise or for high schools to order their free toolkit, please visit www.AAA.com/promise. The 2018 AAA Teen Survey was conducted online among teens ages 16-19 living in The Auto Club Group territory from January 5– January 12. A total of 1,000 teens completed the survey. Results have a margin of error of ± 3.1 percentage points. Total survey responses are weighted by gender and the state teen population to ensure reliable and accurate representation of teens in The Auto Club Group territory.
Page 32
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 13, Issue 4
Explore Florida Wildlife At Nature’s Classroom Community Open House
Seal Swim School Opens Newest Indoor Location In Riverview
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 Nature’s Classroom. Reger, knows you do Every Hillsborough not want to miss it: County 6th grade “Nature’s classroom public school student in hands-on learning, gets to enjoy three actually seeing Nature's Classroom, wildlife sanctuary, nature, and learning consecutive days of opens to public April 28. exploration as part of how to identify and their science curriculum. Students never respect the beauty all around. On-site forget the memorable experience of hikteachers tour, teach, and tell tales that ing through Florida’s hardwood hamcan’t be taught in the traditional classmocks and wetlands, handling small aniroom. While there I’ve scooped micromals like snakes and mice in the interpre- scopic organisms from the water and tive center, and observing nature as they studied them, walked the boardwalk over boat down the Hillsborough River. the wetlands and learned the lay of the Hillsborough Virtual School science land” teacher, Leah Shaffer, has seen firsthand Gate entry is $10 per carload with how wonderful this experience is for chilboat rides costing $2 per person. Food dren: “Nature's Classroom is a unique, trucks and a silent auction will be on site, immersive experience, creating a longand please note this is a cash only event. lasting impact on any students who No ATMs are on site, so please prepare attend. Through interactive experiences accordingly. Please no mini-buses, coolthat focus on a variety of topics and skills ers, or pets. aligned to the state standards, Nature's Volunteers are also welcome and Classroom teachers and staff help stuneeded. School aged students may voldents learn in a way that very few other unteer as long as they are accompanied programs can.” by adult chaperones. Volunteer hours are Since 2007, this gem opens its doors 8 a.m.- 1 p.m., 12 noon - 4 p.m., or all to the larger community as a schoolwide day (8 a.m.- 4 p.m.). To volunteer, contact fundraiser one day a year. This year, they Jennifer Boroff at will open April 28 from 9 a.m- 3 p.m. Jennifer.Boroff@sdhc.k12.fl.us or call Many of the same activities 6th grade stu- 987-6969. Nature's Classroom is located dents experience will be available for the at 13100 Verges Rd., Thonotosassa, entire family including: children's activities, 33592.
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 ature is kept at a con- newly-opened Seal Swim School located key component in in Riverview. stant 90 degrees. her program. That’s not the only benefit of Seal’s Small group lessons offer low four to indoor pools. one student to teacher ratios. Private lesAn advanced sanitizing system uses sons are offered. Classes are broken up ultraviolet light to eliminate micro-organby age and ability. Classes offered isms. A dehumidification system keeps include Water Babies (newborn to five humidity levels stable for optimal comfort. months old), Parent/Tot classes (six to Twenty-four-hour system monitoring twenty-four months old) and group lesalerts maintenance if the water balance sons for ages two and older. Private lesneeds adjusting. Water cycles though the sons are also offered for children aged six enormous filter every 90 minutes. months and 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 Gibsonton Dr., in watch their child learn to swim. Changing the Lowe’s-anchored Riverview Towne rooms are also available for children not Centre shopping center, the team at Seal wearing their suit to class or those who Swim School are the leading water safety want to change into street clothes after educators in the area who have been class. teaching children and adults to swim for It’s never too late to learn to swim; more 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.
By Amy Schechter
By Michelle Caceres
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
NOW ENROLLING
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!
Friday, August 3rd Trips and Meals included
Two Great Locations...
CIRCA FISHHAWK 813-654-7000
5815 Kids Crossing Drive
VALRICO 813-657-6200
4321 Lynx Paw Trail
(Located next to Stowers Elementary and Mosaic)
(Located across fromLithia Springs Elementary)
Lic # CHC432384
Lic # CHC431024
www.KRKCirca.com
www.KRKValrico.com
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 pass-
port 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.
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:
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
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; RoboticsMaterials 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.
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.
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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 complimentary admission to Busch Gardens fol-
lowing 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 problem-solving 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.
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.
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. 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
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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 228-9622.
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.
Make A Splash At Florida Aquarium Summer Camps
This summer, make a splash with The Florida Aquarium. Open your eyes to a whole new world of science, take a tour of the Aquarium with animal experts, meet live animals up close and learn all about them, let your creative side go wild with arts and crafts, cool off at The Splash Pad, and even learn how to scuba dive. There are camp options for ages 3 to 18. AquaTots for ages 3-4 and AquaKids for ages 5-6 include science exploration, art and crafts and much more. There are two sets of full-day onsite camps for ages 6-7 and 8-9 which include science exploration, tours of aquarium, live animal encounter, field trip and more.
Full day travel camps for ages 10-11 and 12-14. Each day or week of camp has a new theme with new lessons and activities that focus on marine science. Campers should bring a water bottle, swimsuit, sunscreen, mask, snorkel and fins every day. There are also two different scuba camps offered, one for ages 12–15 – NAUI SCUBA Diver. Campers can Earn Open Water certification through SCUBA classroom and pool training provided by a certified NAUI SCUBA instructor from The Florida Aquarium dive operations staff. Ages14–18 can take Rescue Scuba and can learn to be a stronger dive buddy and prepare to respond to a variety of diving emergency situations with a NAUI Rescue Diver Course. For full details on all of the camps, visit www.flaquarium.org/camps.
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). To register, call 737-3000 or visit www.OstingBaseball.com.
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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 TechPlayzone this summer. TechPlayzone is pleased to offer 4 weeks of STEM Camp for beginning
and returning TechPlayzone campers in 2nd-5th grade. TechPlayzone is honored to partner with FIRST LEGO League at Hillsborough Community College to power the FIRST LEGO
work 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 684-7329 or email techplayzone@gmail.com.
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
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
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
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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!
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
Brandon’s Big Green “EggQu arters”
to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register today by calling 685-8888 or visit www.centerplacebrandon.org.
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.
Florida Hawks
The Florida Hawks will be offering two camps this summer. Soccer Fun With Coach Juan Soccer Fun with Coach Juan will 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 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. 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.
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
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
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
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 be offering STEM camps this summer. Call for details. Mathnasium of Brandon is located at 1048 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico in Plaza Bella.
Camp Osprey Offers Traditional Overnight Summer Camp
If you are looking for an overnight camp option that is not too far from
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Award W inning STEM Camps Since 2005 Where Bright & Creative Kids Play to Learn
home, consider Camp Osprey. This overnight traditional summer camp is for boys and girls ages 715. It is located on 204 acres of beautiful woodlands, nestled alongside the Little Manatee River in Wimauma. Campers live in spacious, newly remodeled, air conditioned cabins with covered porches, electric lighting, bunk beds, picnic tables and fire pits. Boys and girls cabins are located on opposite sides of the camp. A unique program of recreation, adventure, creativity, and exploration is provided, including a high ropes challenge course, ziplines, horseback riding, canoeing, paintball, swimming, and campfire nights. Each day is filled with loads of summer fun and an amazing range of camp activities at an all-inclusive price. Camp is secured with automatic gates that remain locked to the general public. All staff and camp counselors are background checked. Visit www.camposprey.com for more information.
Play Baseball Or Softball At Rich Luppino’s United Sports Academy Four Bloomingdale Cal
Ripken/Babe Ruth baseball and softball summer camps will be held at the Bloomingdale Sports Complex. With four great camps to choose from, your kids will enjoy skill training, fun drills and instruction games. Camp #1 takes place Tuesday to Friday, May 29-June 1; Camp #2 takes place Monday to Friday, June 4-8; Camp #3 takes place Monday to Friday, July 30-August 3 and Camp #4 takes place Monday to Thursday, August 6-9. All camps take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Camp is for ages 5-12. Bring your gear, drinks, snacks and lunch. The cost is $150 per week or $40 per day. Discounts provided for team, sibling or multiple camps. For more information or to register, call 561951-6141.
Six different themed camps explore Florida's unique history, from Pirates and Explorers to the Everglades. Camps are open to children ages 7–11 and led by experienced educators dedicated to providing unique, educational and engaging experiences campers won't forget. Camps for boys and girls run Monday to Friday, June 4-8, June 1822, June 25-29, July 9-13, July 23-27 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and have a different theme each week.
Camps include crafts, games and a bit of history, guest speakers, indoor and outdoor fun, and Museum Insider’s Tour. Middle-school students can take a walk on the wild side. Discover the beauty and complexity of Florida’s natural environment during Wild Florida, Tuesday to Thursday, July 10-12 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Contact the Education Department at 675-8987 or ahoffman@tampabayhistorycenter.org. Visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org/camps/.
WWW.CAMPOSPREY.COM -6860 941-928
Tampa Bay History Center Offers History Adventure Camps
Step back into Florida's past with unique games and projects, themed field trips, outdoor fun, and hands-on interactions with real historians and experts during the History Center's History Adventure Camps.
All-Inclusive Kids Overnight Adventure Camp Ages 7-15 204 beautiful acres located alongside the Little Manatee River!
Math Help
Math Enrichment
Test Prep
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
Page 40
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 13, Issue 4
April 2018
Page 41
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
tion a g i r r I e e Fr u a t i o n , E v al ard i n g o Skateb& e… r o M s Event ed by Michelle Colemsanti, ver.co Compil reyobser p s o @ e michell
Dive Into The All-New Splash and Bubbles: 4-D Undersea Adventure
Wet Weather Won’t Drown Out Fun With Busch Gardens’ Spring Break Rain Guarantee
Visitors don’t need to change their plans if rain is in the forecast during a spring break visit to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The park is offering a ‘Spring Break Rain Guarantee’ allowing guests who have a rained-out day at Busch Gardens to come back for a free second visit within 30 days. The offer is valid today through April 30 for single day and multiday tickets. In addition to world-class coasters and amazing animal experiences, Busch Gardens fourth annual Food & Wine Festival continues through April 29. Full menus, concert lineup, and tick-
The age groups are: 8 and under, 912, 13-15, 16 and up. For information, call 671-7635.
Tampa YMCA Wins Treadmill Tuesday Tie-Breaker
In Hillsborough County, a licensed irrigation contractor or plumber is necessary to perform most types of work on your irrigation system. Permits are required for the alteration, replacement or relocation of any standpipe or water supply. If you pull a permit, you will receive a final inspection by the County. Call Development Services at 2725600 for permit or licensing questions. If you are a high water user and would like to see if you qualify for a free irrigation evaluation, call Paula Staples, Public Education Program Coordinator at 744-5519 Ext. 54142.
Put your fins together for the allnew Splash and Bubbles: 4-D Undersea Adventure, premiering at The Florida Aquarium, Friday, April 6. This special run lasts through Thursday, May 17, in the 4-Ducks Theater and promises an undersea adventure like no other. Plus, it is free with Aquarium admission. The hit PBS KIDS series Splash and Bubbles comes to life in this brand-new 4-D Experience® filled with music, fun and everyone’s favorite citizens of Time to Find Out Who the sea! The 12-minute show Hillsborough’s Top Skateboarder was custom created to maxiReally Is mize the special effects of the Hillsborough County’s mostSplash and Bubbles: 4-D Undersea Adventure now showing at 4-D Theater and deliver a The Florida Aquarium. skilled skateboarders will showcase never-before-seen storyline their biggest air and most jaw-dropfeaturing the series’ endearing and ping tricks at the kickoff to this year’s et details are available humorous characters. This oceanthree-tournament Best Shredder series. at www.BuschGardens.com/Tampa. themed family-friendly adventure will Each tournament is held at a differencourage children to explore the natural ent County skate park. Skaters in four Get a Free Irrigation Evaluation From undersea world with a focus on interconage divisions compete for first-, second-, County nectedness, biodiversity and the imporand third-place prizes at each event. At Spring is the driest season in Central tance of ocean conservation. the final tournament, the top point-getter Florida. Having your irrigation system The Florida Aquarium is located at in each age division is named the Best serviced can save you money and con701 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. Visit Shredder in Hillsborough County. serve water. https://www.flaquarium.org/4-D.
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The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA announced its win in the Treadmill Tuesday Tie-Breaker, a third annual competition with the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast. In total, 1,979 Tampa Bay residents completed 4,185.95 miles during the 12-hour event, surpassing the First Coast by about 1,385.15 miles. For the First Coast, 1,368 residents logged 2,800.80 miles. Together, the Tampa YMCA and First Coast YMCA leveraged a friendly competition to inspire community members to become more physically active and adopt healthier lifestyles. “The remarkable turnout of the Treadmill Tuesday Tie-Breaker has once again demonstrated the importance of community involvement in improving Florida’s health and well-being,” said Tampa YMCA President & CEO Matt Mitchell. “While this year’s tie-breaker ended in our favor, both Y associations remain committed to strengthening the health of our communities.” In addition to participating at their neighborhood Y, community members were able to join the competition from other locations via social media. Of the 4,185.95 total Tampa Bay participants, 26 joined by uploading a post-workout photo of treadmill dashboard displaying the total distance on social media. The total distance and number of participants local Y’s are: Campo Family YMCA, 308 Participants logged in 654.86 miles andn North Brandon Family YMCA, 165 Participants logged in 307.02 miles.
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Page 42
Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
een T & n e r d l Chi ops, h s k r o W l Financia ight Out & Parents Nore… M ti, Colesan helle d by Mic rver.com e il p m o C obse @osprey michelle
Parents Night Out At FAOPA Kicks Off Summer Celebration
The Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA), 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, will hold a Parents Night Out on Friday, May 18 from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Kids ages 5-12 will enjoy an evening of fun that will include games, food, prizes, crafts, and more. There will be an Ice Age theme for this event, which will also include Kona Ice. Your kids will get to watch the movie Ice Age as the summer celebration kicks off. The cost is $25 per child ($10 for additional siblings). Visit www.faopa.org for details.
Learn The Health Benefits Of Ginger
Come and join Caroline Blesson to learn the amazing health benefits of Ginger, cooking demonstration and free food sampling. It will take place on Wednesday, May 2 at 2 p.m. at the SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin. This program is limited to 40 participants. Registration is required. Please call 273-3652 to reserve your spot. This free event is funded by the
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Friends of the SouthShore Regional Library.
Financial Literacy Workshops For Children & Teens
April is Money Smart Month and local libraries are hosting financial literacy workshops for children and teens on Wednesday, April 25. At 10:30 a.m., children ages 3-5 and their caregivers are invited to attend money smart story time in the Riverview Branch library. Children will hear about the adventures of Ruby and Max as they shop for their grandmother's birthday but encounter some unexpected expenses. Each child will have an opportunity to shop with their own "Bunny Money" in the candy shop and decorate a piggy bank to take home. Then from 6:30 7:30 p.m., bring your teen to the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library for ‘Personal Finance for Teens.’ Your teen will be introduced to topics such as budgeting, saving, and the impact of student loan debt on their financial well-being.
Learn To Make A Mixed Media Art Tag At Bloomingdale Library
lowing, balance, walking, speaking, mobility, exercise, self-care, cognition, and memory, all of which can be impacted by Parkinson’s Disease. Hawthorne Health & Rehabilitation Center, located at 851 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. For more information or to register, call 661-8998 MondayFriday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Hawthorne Hosts Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
Mark Your Calendar For Impact’s Got Talent Show
Hawthorne Health & Rehabilitation Center hosts a free monthly support group for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and caregivers on the third Thursday of every month. A variety of speakers will provide information on topics relating to swal-
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Talent. The family-friendly fundraiser kicks off at 6:30 p.m. at Bloomingdale High School, located at 1700 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. The grand prize is $250. Impact’s Got Talent event tickets are $10 per person and available on Eventbrite.com. The evening will also feature a 50-50 raffle and silent auction. All ticket sales benefit the Impact program, which promotes healthy lifestyles and relationships to teens, parents, teachers, and other youth leaders through classroom education. To be a sponsor, contact Angie Kagey at 264-9368 or akagey@whatisimpact.com. For more information, visit IMPACT’s Got Talent 2018 Facebook Event page or www.whatisimpact.com.
Mark your calendar for Friday, May 11 for the fourth annual Impact’s Got Talent show based on the hit television show America’s Got
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A Create Workshop will be held at the Bloomingdale Regional Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico, on how to make a mixed media art tag. Artist and instructor, Judith Henry, will demonstrate how to create a tag that can be used as a bookmark, a gift label or keepsake. Students should bring copies of small family photos, magazines and newspaper clippings of words that illustrate their feelings. The workshop is scheduled for Saturday, May 12 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p. m. in Room 8. Register online at HCPLC.org.
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Page 43
Brandon/Winthrop 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.
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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Page 44
Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins
Winthrop Celebrates The Arts At 10th Annual Arts Festival And Artisan Market The 10th $2500 to the Annual Winthrop Best of Show Arts Festival and winner, Rachael Artisan Market Ratcliff. The was held over judges said of the weekend of Ratcliff’s work, March 24 and 25 “We are pleased in beautiful to award Winthrop Rachael Ratcliff Common in Best of Show.” Riverview. Ratcliff is from Residents who Clearwater and Tom Mitchell, SVP, Business Banker with First came out to the Citrus Bank (L) presented the Best of Show award her medium is to Rachel Ratcliff (c ) at the Annual Artists’ Banquet acrylic on canfestival met held in conjunction with the 10th Annual Winthrop vas. many talented Arts Festival and Artisan Market. Also shown, artists and artiOther winKathy Collins, Executive Director, Winthrop Arts. sans, enjoyed ners included shopping from great vendors, listened to first place winner, Thomas Mueller of wonderful live entertainment and particiRiverview; second place winner, Donald pated in fun children’s activities. Korte of Brandon; third place winner, The 10th Annual Winthrop Arts Glenn Schuele of Tampa; and honorable Festival and Artisan Market is a juried art mention winner, Mark James of St. show. The three judges for this year’s Petersburg. show were Susana Weymouth, the Community members were given the Executive Director of Tampa Bay opportunity to be judges by sponsoring Business For Culture and the Arts the Friends of Winthrop Awards. The win(TBBCA), Martine Collier, Executive ners in this category included Jennifer Director of the Arts Council of Martinez (Lennard Consulting); Elizabeth Hillsborough County and Michael Parker, Johnson (Osprey Observer); Andrea artist and President of the SouthShore Rogers (Lisa Wilcox, P.A.); Rebecca Arts Council. Nipper (Jenn Riley Vacations); and Weymouth, on behalf of all three Maryanne Freeman (Children’s Kastle). judges said, “As judges we were honored In addition to the annual arts festival, to be invited to adjudicate the 10th Annual Winthrop Arts offers art education for chilWinthrop Arts Festival. We were highly dren and the community at the Art impressed by the diversity represented in Factory and summer camp. Winthrop age, gender, ethnicity and the types of Arts’ newest project is the Winthrop Arts creative expression.” Weymouth added, Mobile Art Factory. This is an outreach “Congratulations to those whom we felt project where children living in underdistinguished themselves with their served areas such as Wimauma are able entries this year.” to attend free art classes. Funding for this Thanks to sponsors, including this project comes from generous funders year’s Presenting Sponsor, First Citrus such as Suncoast Credit Union. Bank, Winthrop Arts was able to give out For more information, please visit over $5000 in prize money. This included www.winthroparts.org.
Students Participate In Annual High School Art Show At Center Place The 2018 High School Art Show was held on Thursday, March 22 at Center Place in Brandon. The GFWC Brandon Service League provides the funding for the winners. Students from area high schools submit entries for 2D, 3D and photography. The high schools represented in this year’s show included East Bay, Durant, Bloomingdale, Plant City, Blake and Armwood. The judge for this year’s show was Jennie Sikora-Muehl, a professional ceramics artist. Sikora-Muehl shows her functional and sculptural work in galleries and stores throughout the country and locally at Florida Craft Art. Sikora-Muehl said of the show, “This is one of the best high school art shows that I have ever judged. There were so many great pieces. It was difficult to pick the award winners. The attention to details, the use of materials, and the sophistication of the subjects in this show rival that of some college students. I wish there were more awards to give.” Lenny Cabanero-Harvey, a professional ceramics artist and teacher at Blake High School echoed the judge’s
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comments stating, “This was a great selection of pieces. The level of quality is higher than ever.” The first-place winner in 2D art was Melany Jorge, a student from Durant High School, with her piece “Couch Potato.” In photography, the firstplace winner was Aysia Parker-Thomas from Blake High School with “Unfair Life of a 2 Year Old.” The first-place winner in 3D was Emelyn Harvey from Blake High School with “Cold.” The Judge’s Special Award was given to Amanda Cardwell from Durant High School for her piece called “Irma.” According to the Judge, “This was chosen because of the relationship between the two boys. The light, shadows and texture of each stroke with a pencil shows a very realistic photographic quality to this drawing.” Center Place also presented the 2018 Patricia B. Odiorne Scholarship to Virginia Haggbloom from Newsome High School. This is a $1,000 scholarship given each year to a high school senior. For more information on the 2018 High School Art Show, please visit www.centerplacebrandon.org.
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April 2018
Page 45
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Twelve Oaks RV Escapes Offers Great Deals On RV Rentals & Set Ups
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 per night, reserved you can get campsite and a camper have rental and your camper can even fully set up and add a towready to able travel go. Fees trailer. include deliv“As avid ery of the campers, we camper to love escaping to the great outdoors your campsite, full setup/ hookup/ tearevery chance we get. Camping allows down, and emptying of the tanks after us to relax in beautiful settings surround- your trip. A delivery fee is a one-time ed by oak trees, wild palmettos, and run- fee in addition to the daily rental rate. ning streams. Florida offers countless Some of the recommended campcamping opportunities year-round, and ing 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 46
Volume 13, Issue 4
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Sports
Connection By Nick Nahas
657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com
Nicholas Hensley Wins Zenay Morales Courage Award Photos courtesy of Judy Moore
“Nicholas is an inspiration to others,” said Judy Moore, coach at the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center. “He displays good sportsmanship, courage and perseverance.” During the opening ceremonies at the recent area Special Olympics at Jesuit High School, Nicholas Hensley was awarded the Zenay Morales Courage Award. This award is given annually in memory of Zenay Morales, a Special Olympics athlete. Since 2001, the award has been presented to a Special Olympics competitor who exemplifies the true spirit and courage of a Special Olympics athlete. Nicholas’ mother, Sandra Hensley, says that her son is very competitive
called Trisomy 11-18. His mother said that when he was 5 months old the doctors told her that he wouldn’t live to be half her age. He is now 34 and is the oldest person known to have this condition. He was recently in the hospital for pneumonia. “Despite all that, he is always cheerful and is always smiling,” said Chiaramonte. “He just makes your day.” “No matter what, he never gives up, he keeps on trying,” said Hensley. “We are very proud of him.” Tennis For Fun is a free tennis clinic for special needs people. For more information, you can visit their website at tennisforfun.org.
The Morales family sponsors a spirit award that was presented to Nicholas Hensley. Aly Smith (left), Nicholas Hensley, Zuhally Smith and Mike Smith.
and loves to win. “He likes getting out there, being active and social,” she said. “He just has a blast.” Hensley has been an athlete in the Tennis For Fun program at the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center for 16 on. years. According to his lace ribb g a 1 st p in tt e g y coach, Rosanna Chiaramonte, he has Hensle
competed in basketball, tennis, swimming, bowling, cycling, soccer and track and field. “He has a very great spirit despite not being in good health,” said Hensley rece ived a signed Chiaramonte. baseball at th e Special Oly He has a condition mpics.
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April 2018
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Page 47
Sports
Connection King Lions Claim 2018, 38th Annual Saladino Tournament Title By Nick Nahas The 38th annual Saladino Tournament final featured two of the dominant programs in Hillsborough County, the Alonso Ravens (8-4) and the King Lions (9-1). The Lions were victorious, winning 6-5 and claiming their third Saladino Tournament title. They won six games over the week-long spring break tournament. “This means a great deal to the players, the coaches and the parents,” said Head Coach Jim Macaluso. “It’s a big deal.” The Ravens, led by head coach Landy Faedo have appeared in four straight tournament finals, but lost the last two, to Steinbrenner in 2016 and to Jesuit last year. The Ravens have won the tournament four times overall (2007, 2009, 2010, 2015). The Lions, led by legendary head coach Jim Macaluso, in his 43rd season, have won the tournament two times (1983 and 1992), but its been 26 years since their last g up. er windin rg a B title. n o Addis on the same wild The Lions got on the board first, taking a 1-0 lead in the first on pitch, giving the Ravens a 3-1 lead. a throwing error by Alonso catcher Gabe King fought back Montagna trying to pick off the runner at in the top of the third, second. Alonso answered in the bottom scoring on a double by Justice of the inning, scoring three runs of their Thompson and a single by Jamarcus own. Ryan Drumheller led the inning off Lyons, tying the score at 3. Alonso then with a single, and ended up scoring on a took back the lead 4-3 in the bottom of double-play, tying the score at 1. Robert the inning on an error by the King third Curry and Ihostean Montes later scored
add an insurance run in the top of the 7th with Addison Barger scoring on a wild pitch to make it 6-4. Alonso would try to mount a comeback in the bottom of the 7th down by two, but would come up a little bit short. They made it 6-5 on a single by Jaiden Underwood with a runner on third. King shortstop and Saladino Tournament MVP Barger came into pitch for the first time in two years and struck out Nick Gonzalez looking with the bases loaded to earn the save. “I wanted the opportunity,” said Barger. “I knew I was going to get it done. It was a lot of pressure, but that’s what I want. That’s what I live for right there, that moment.” The Lions were coached by Jim Macaluso’s son, Anthony Macaluso, because the older Macaluso was ejected in the first game of The Lions do g-pile after th the day in the e win. semifinal win baseman Zarrian against Sickles when Brinson. he argued a close call at third base. King, who showed Being the captain of the ship made the resilience all night long, victory that much sweeter for the younger fought back once again Macaluso. “He is our head coach, he’s in the 6th inning, tying the score and then also my dad, he shouldn’t have been taking the lead and not looking back. thrown out in the first place, so to go and Hishaam Shafiq singled in the tying run win it for him made it even more sweet,” and would later score the go-ahead run said Anthony Macaluso. on a single by Brinson. They would later
Page 48
Brandon/Winthrop Edition
Volume 13, Issue 4