Osprey Observer 2016-11 Bloomingdale/FishHawk by Osprey Observer

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

November 2016 Volume 15, Issue 11 Ph: 657-2418

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Y E A R S

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P U B L I S H I N G

Newsome High School Marching Band Gets $5K from Hillsborough County For Macy’s Parade Trip

By Tamas Mondovics

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

Brandon To Share Movie Market As Two New Theaters Poised To Open This Holiday Season

By Tamas Mondovics

Greater day is yet to be deterBrandon area mined, Nash said the residents and company is hoping to movie lovers welcome its first guests are now promin late November. ised to have Less than five miles no shortage of north on Progress theater seats Village Blvd., conto fill this holistruction is only day season, weeks from comthanks to the pletion on the $15 construction million Xscape of two brand Theaters, the area’s new theaters; third movie and enterRiverview 14 tainment destination GDX in option. Gibsonton When open, the and Xscape AMC the Regency 20 Theaters have been facility, which brings an serving Greater Brandon area residents for additional 14 screens Theaters on the past 30 years. Two additional theaters (12 regular auditoriums Progress are scheduled to open. Village Blvd. and two XTREME audiBoth theaters are nearing completoriums), will effectively raise the total tion and are said to open on time, to number of screens between the three welcome the holiday crowd. multiplex locations to 48. AMC The Regency 20 Theaters, Xscape Theaters representative, located in Regency Square 2496 W Scott Bagwell emphasized the wide Brandon Blvd, which has been serving variety of impressive features and perks the Brandon area and has dominated that rival all others. “We offer what all the movie market for more than three movie lovers want; better picture, better decades, will now have to share the sound and better price,” Bagwell said road and work a bit harder to keep its Story Continued On Page 36 longtime guests. Just 15 minutes south on I-75, on Gibsonton Drive, Goodrich Quality In This Theaters is building Riverview 14 GDX, Issue a 66,000 sq. ft., facility with 14 screens. According to Goodrich Quality SIGN LANGUAGE................................PG 3 Theaters Marketing and Creative Director, Kelly Nash, Riverview 14 GDX RECRUITING FOSTER PARENTS ........PG 10 will be Tampa Bay’s Largest Screens all HOLIDAY EXPO .................................PG 12 with comfortable, plush, powered recliners. SHOOTING CLUB ..............................PG 25 “The theater will include two auditoriums with GDX (Giant Digital SPORTS CONNECTION...............PGS 34‐35 Experience), our premium large Format CHALKLINES .....................................PG 38 (PLF) screen, much like IMAX, with a screen span of 70 ft. wide and feature ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT................PG 46 state of the art Dolby Atmos multiGIFT GUIDE. ..............................PGS 54‐59 dimensional sound systems with discrete sound being pumped out of more READ MORE LOCAL NEWS ONLINE than 50 speakers,” Nash said. www.ospreyobserver.com While Riverview 14 GDX’s opening

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Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners proudly presented a $5,000 check to the Newsome High School Wolfpack Marching Band in support of its selection as the first high school marching band from the county to ever receive an Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy White, left, is joined by invitation to the Newsome High School principal Carla Bruning, while presenting a Annual Macy’s $5,000 check to the Newsome Wolfpack Marching Band. The money was donated to the Band to offset its travel expenses in Thanksgiving Day connection with its participation of the 90th Annual Macy’s Parade. Thanksgiving Day Parade. County on television. Commissioner Stacy White, was on The Wolfpack Marching Band is hand for the check presentation cereone of just ten high school marching mony during a recent football game bands and, the only Florida band to halftime show last month. White said perform in 2016 parade. that the money is given to the band Wolfpack Marching Band Director with great pride by the BOCC to cover Michael Miller put things in perspective the band’s travel expenses in connection with the upcoming trip to New York when he said, “This is about as great of an honor as it gets. You guys have City. worked hard and it paid off.” “This is a big deal for both Of course, Newsome’s ‘March to Newsome High School and Macy’s’ is not cheap and, according to Hillsborough County as a whole,” Miller, with more funds needed the White said. “What better way to showcommunity’s generosity and monetary case our county than to have one of support is much welcomed. our high school bands appear on “We are bringing 175 students and national television as part of this won225 friends and family members,” derful American tradition that tens of Miller said. “We are accepting monemillions of viewers will be tuned in to.” tary donations to help cover the cost of Macy’s parade representative, Wesley Whatley, said that the band will fuel for our equipment trucks, and cold perform in front of more than three mil- weather gear for the students. Donations can be made directly to lion spectators on the streets of New the Newsome Band Boosters or visit York City and, more than 50 million people that will be watching the parade Story Continued On Page 7

P O S I T I V E

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FishHawk Creek Elementary School Resource Officer Lakeshia Arroyo, is joined by students Samantha Marks and Madison Jones last month as the three pause for a photo during the annual Walk to School Day. The international event involves communities from dozens of countries walking and biking to school on the same day. Read more in this edition.

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Page 2

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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November 2016

Page 3

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

ASL Social; Talk With Your Hands By Matt Boniface Are you one of the many that talk with your hands? Have you ever wanted to learn another language? There’s a local group that can help you with both. Students and community members alike are welcomed to join ‘TAMPA ASL Socials’. This group of community members meets on a regular basis to patron businesses, meet new people and converse; they do this all in American Sign Language Christina Perricone, Joseph Cacciatore, Christina (ASL). It meets every Coppola and Brianna Greene signing ‘I love you’ at a recent meet-up. Thursday in the food court of the Westfield Brandon Mall are encouraged to attend and learn. starting at 6:30 p.m. and on Fridays at College students are encouraged to 6:30 p.m. on a rotating schedule of local attend these events to fulfill a requirerestaurants in the surrounding Tampa ment for their classes. Caitlyn area. Due to graduation of the students Pashnick, an HCC student, “My involved, meetings take a hiatus after teacher requires five observation jourThanksgiving and begin again the second nals per semester... [and] I’ve always week of January. wanted to learn it.” She began studying “Everyone is welcomed, from kids to sign language in August and seeks to adults,” said Joseph Cacciatore, one of use what she learns as a dispatcher for the group's regular members. An average the sheriff’s department, where she meet-up will have roughly 15 to 20 attencurrently works. dees ranging in proficiency from those Elias Goutoufas, ASL Instructor at just beginning to learn sign language to Hillsborough Community College, “Our fully fluent. Members can be hearing, ASL events are open to everyone who hard of hearing or deaf. loves American Sign Language.” Elias There is one major rule at these is the group’s Community Events events: No “Voicing,” meaning no talking Informer and attends the Friday meetwith your mouth. Out of respect for the ups on a regular basis. deaf members, the group encourages all For more Information visit attendees to speak using only sign lanwww.aslevents.info or join the guage. “Turn it off,” Joseph explained. No Facebook Group ‘Tampa ASL Socials.’ one expects attendees to be experts in Event times and locations are updated sign language. People of all skill levels regularly in both locations.

Burn Calories And Help The Hungry At Turkey Trot

By Michelle Caceres

With the average 450 registered runAmerican consuming ners. 4,500 calories and 229 In the last eight grams of fat on years it has grown Thanksgiving Day, just a bit. With an there’s no better way to estimated 3,000 parkick off the diet-busting ticipants, the event day than by participatis the largest road ing in the eighth annual race in the area, FishHawk Turkey Trot. attracting particiThe 5k race, that pants of every attracts the swift-footed shape and size. five-minute milers and “Our event is, the weekend warriors first and foremost, whose only goal is to about including the cross the finish line, whole family-from begins at 8 a.m. and Grandpa and Registration is currently open for the winds through the Grandma to the eighth annual FishHawk Turkey Trot streets of FishHawk benefitting Seeds of Hope food bank. youngest child who Ranch. A one-mile fun can walk,” said run and 250-yard mini-run will begin at 9 Eaton. “It’s just a great overall family a.m. experience.” Proceeds from the event benefit Registration for the 5k chip-timed Seeds of Hope food bank, a local nonrace opened in September but continues profit that provides food to families in until the day of the event. Racers can need in the community. Seeds of Hope register online at www.sohopefl.org or inhands out boxes of food to more than 70 person at the FishHawk Ranch Welcome families per week and provides more Center, located at 5901 Village Center than 150 backpacks of food to school Drive. Early bird registration, ending children during the weekends when they October 31st, is $25 for the 5k and $15 don’t have access to free lunch. for the fun run. “So many people benefit from this Registered runners can pick up their event, first and foremost people in need,” packets November 22nd or November said race organizer Leda Eaton, who has 23rd from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. at The memories of running in a turkey trot in Palmetto Club, located at 17004 Dorman West Virginia. “It just became a tradition Rd. and a part of Thanksgiving,” she said. “Because of the support of the comWhen she moved to FishHawk she munity at this event we are able to supwanted her friends and neighbors to port those in need in our community for a adopt the same tradition and in 2009 the whole year,” said Eaton. “That is truly charity event was born. Its first year saw something to be thankful for.”

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Page 4

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Alafia Lighted Boat Parade And Chili Cook-Off Kicks Off Holiday Season

Local Farmer’s Markets In FishHawk Area Feature Produce, Gifts And More

It’s that time the children and of year again. The local community holiday season is vendors will be disupon us and all of playing their busithe wonderful nesses. community events “The Boat that go with it. Parade is great Mark your calencommunity event dars for Saturday, because we are December 3 for able to celebrate Advanced Auto Air owners Tammy and Rick the season with an the 33rd Annual Connolly and their decorated boat, Santa Alafia Lighted Ducky and Power Trip, will be participating in event unique to Boat Parade and the Alafia Lighted Boat Parade for the second our natural time this year. Chili Cook-Off put resources, our on by The Rotary Club of FishHawkrivers, in particular,” said Dr. Kim Tyson, Riverview. chairman of the Boat Parade Committee This year’s lighted boat parade will for the Rotary Club of FishHawkkick off at Williams Park Boat Ramp, Riverview. “Everyone can enjoy the deco9425 U.S. Hwy. 41 and the boats will rated boats and taste some great chili in travel down the river to the Diddy, circle our cook-off, which engages our commuaround and make their way back to the nity to participate on many levels.” final destination, River’s Edge Lounge & There are still spots available for venMarina, located at 6226 Ohio Ave. in dors as well as sponsorship Gibsonton, where there will be an awards opportunities. All proceeds from this ceremony. event will fund charitable projects such as Tammy and Rick Connolly, owners of our Clean Water and Latrine Project in Advanced Auto Air in Gibsonton, will be Honduras, Friends of the County Parks, participating for their second year. “We've Head Start Reading, ECHO, Brandon gone from watching it on friends’ docks Outreach Clinic and scholarships for local over the years to now participating and it high school seniors, among others. is so much fun,” said Tammy. “We love Boaters interested in participating in the Alafia Boat Parade and all the great the Boat Parade this year, should contact people that come together to put it on.” Mike Broussard at The Rotary Club of FishHawkMichaelBroussard34@yahoo.com. Riverview is partnering with the Boaters are asked to make a $25 donaHillsborough County Parks and tion while members of the community are Recreation Department to hold the Chili also encouraged to show their support by Cook-Off and viewing of the Boat Parade making donations. For more information, at the Riverview Civic Center, from 5-8 contact Dr. Tyson at p.m. Santa will be on-site for photos with hummingbird133@verizon.net.

Residents of nity really comes the FishHawk out and supports area can once the market.” again pick up For more infordelicious promation on Market duce, homeDay and its venmade products dors, call 657and tasty treats 6629. The market close to home takes place in Park every month now Square, located at that the 16132 Churchview It is market season again in FishHawk Ranch Dr. in Lithia. Visit FishHawk with Market Day taking place the first Sunday Market Saturday of the month from October to May www.brookat Park Square lynknish.com to and the Chapel at FishHawk market taking place the first Saturday of the month from and the The learn more about November to January. Chapel Market of Brooklyn Knish. FishHawk are open for the season. The first Chapel at FishHawk Market FishHawk Market Day takes place will take place on Saturday, November 5 on the first Sunday of every month at from 1-5 p.m. The market will also be Park Square from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. from open for business December 3 and October to May with this month’s market January 7, 2017 offering goods from taking place on November 6. According more than 30 local small businesses. to FishHawk Ranch Homeowner’s According to organizer Angela Dull, venAssociation Coordinator Susan Parvin, dors will offer products and services the market hosts up to 40 varying vensuch as jewelry, home and holiday dors each month, with many that have decor, clothing, hair accessories, canbeen consistent since the market first dles and fragrances, essential oils, eduopened in 2009. cational services and more. “Our vendors offer food and drinks “So many more new vendors are from coffee and smoothies to cupcakes joining us, and women are helping and and hand-made products from body encouraging women,” said Angela Dull, washes and soaps to hair bows and event organizer. “Come out to start your wreaths,” said Parvin. “ Christmas shopping early while supportBrian Watchtler with Brooklyn Knish ing stay at home moms.” has been at the market since the beginThe market, located at 6026 ning. He sells made-from-scratch tradiChurchside Dr. in Lithia, is currently at tional Eastern European pastries. “It has capacity for vendors, but to be added to always been a great market for us,” said a wait list, contact Dull at Watchtler, who travels from Clearwater angiedull@aol.com or call 863-860every month to participate. “The commu- 6167.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

W W W

County Launches New, Easy-To-Use Redesigned Service-Centric Website

O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R

C O M

By Tamas Mondovics

Residents who most likely to be seekhave finally learned ing. how to navigate Browsing through through the County’s the new site, parents website will have to can navigate in a few try again, although clicks to lists of local this time it may be bit parks and recreation easer. programs, while compaWith the promise can easily locate nies Under its new web address, HCFLGov.net, Hillsborough Count information on permits of easier access and maneuverability, cou- officials launched a redesigned web- or how to do business site. The new service centric, cuspled with several new tomer-focused site is promising easi- with the County. er use and mobile friendly access. features to help resiOne specific examdents seeking assisple is the new site’s tance, Hillsborough County Customer Service Center-at officials were pleased to your service page, which after launch, what they said is a just one click or shortcut, “redesigned, easier to use directs residents to a specific and more mobile-friendly service. “The result is a more website.” intuitive website,” Roberts According to said. Hillsborough County With the new website Communications and Digital comes a new, streamlined Media Director, Annette Spina, the new address, HCFLGov.net. Visitors to the website, which she said cut about a milformer HillsboroughCounty.org address lion words from the old set up, sports a will be automatically redirected to the number of specific changes with one new site. main goal. “HCFLGov.net was designed to be “We wanted to make sure that the easily accessible by cellphone, tablet, or new service-centric site was much more laptop,” he said. With its recent launch, customer-focused,” Spina said, adding officials admitted that while the website is that the project, which from start to finish now up and rinnung, it is continually took nearly a year was to attract as well being refined and updated to better as assist County residents with services serve the community. offered. “We want to encourage residents to “We built it for the them,” she said. make good use of the website and, while “The web team led by Brian Roberts visiting, they are able to rate web pages,” worked hard to create models of the Spina said. “The feedback will allow us most frequent online visitors and identito continuously make the site even more fied the types of information they were user-friendly for years to come.”

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Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

County To Begin $1M Greenhills Drive Drainage Improvements

By Tamas Mondovics

Hillsborough According to County Public project manager, Works departDavid Vogel, ment has construction announced its handled by Bun plans to improve Construction storm water Company, will drainage on and generally take around place on weekGreenhills Drive days between 8 in Valrico. a.m. and 5 p.m. and, will involve County officials and Public Hillsborough County Public Works announced heavy equipplans to improve storm water drainage on and ment and excaWorks represenaround Greenhills Drive in Valrico, including the tatives presented construction of a new 2-acre retention pond at vation. the details of the Vogel the corner of South Valrico Road and LithiaPinecrest Road. The project is to begin this planned $1 milemphasized that month with a completion early spring 2017. lion Capital the most intruImprovement project during a public sive portion of the project is the information meeting held late last replacement of the drainage pump stamonth at the Bloomingdale Regional tion located at the back of the pond Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. within the Greenhills neighborhood, in Valrico. which he said will generate normal construction noise. The open house format meeting, “Most construction will be in the which saw about a dozen residents, gave attendees a chance to review and right of way,” Vogel said, but added that comment on the proposed plans includ- at times it may be necessary to work ing the replacing the Greenhills Drive on private property with prior approval. drainage pump station as well as the As a word of caution, Vogel construction of a new 2-acre retention emphasized that excavation work can pond at the corner of South Valrico sometimes cause an accidental water Road and Lithia-Pinecrest Road. pipeline break or similar problem. Officials said that the project will Should any water service interrupalso connect the Golf Heights Circle tion occur, instructions for a precautionpump station to the new pond and creary boil water notice will be issued,” he said. “All areas affected by the conate an outfall from the pond to the struction will be restored.” existing drainage system at South InfO presented at this meeting will Valrico. also be available on the Greenhills Work is expected to begin in October 2016 and should be completed Drive Drainage Improvements project webpage www.hcflgov.net. within 140 days or spring 2017.

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November 2016

Page 7

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Newsome Band...Cont From Page 1 Holiday Safety Tips For Your HOA Community With the holidays approaching we have created a list of holiday safety tips for all HOA communities. We know that the holidays can be a busy time of the year and want to ensure everyone’s safety.

Inspect All Stringed Lights

When it’s time to hang up the holiday lights, whether inside or outside your home, or in the community center, look for any old wires, broken sockets, wire bends and bare spots. It’s recommended that you don’t overload any outlets, and connect the string of lights to an extension cord before plugging in the lights. If your HOA has light rules and restrictions, make sure residents are aware of where holiday lights are allowed.

Keep The Holiday Tree Watered

If residents plan on using a live holiday tree, be aware to keep it well watered so it does not dry out. A dried out Christmas tree is a huge safety hazard.

Turn off the holiday lights, both tree and house lights, when you’re not home or sleeping. Not only is it an energy waster, but it can be a potential fire hazard. We suggest that you do not place a holiday tree near a heat source, such as a lit candle. Speaking of lit candles, do not leave them unattended at any time.

Test Smoke Detectors

Remind residents to test all smoke and carbonmonoxide detectors, and if needed, replace their batteries.

Stop Any Mail

If residents plan on going out of town, encourage them to have their mail held at the post office or arrange for a neighbor to pick it up. A full mailbox and a driveway littered with newspapers are signs to prowling thieves that no one is home. Does your HOA have any other events or tips to share? Send them over to Kate Quesada at kquesada@ospreyobserver.com to be featured in next month’s edition.

https://www.gofundme.com/NewsomeH SBand?utm_medium=wdgt The band has been working hard to raise the necessary funds to cover the expenses.” The trip’s total estimated cost is approximately $750,000. The band has raised approximately $150,000 over an 18 month period to supplement the its operational budget and eliminate any extra band fees beyond the cost of going on the trip. “I wanted to personally thank Kelly Smith and Roxanne Salabarria, our past and present fundraising chairs respectively, the Newsome Band Boosters organization and the entire Newsome High School community for their belief, trust, and

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support,” Miller said. Residents can support the band by attending the Florida Marching Band Coalition State semi-finals on Saturday, Nov. 12 from 9 a.m. until noon, hosted by Newsome High School. While, the Wolfpack will not perform at the semifinals, attending the event will help the band with its continued fundraising efforts. Newsome High School is located at 16550 FishHawk Blvd. in Lithia. For more information about the band, visit newsomeband.com. or contact Newsome High School at 740-4600. To watch the Wolfpack live on Thanksgiving morning, November 24, 2016, tune in to NBC.

Page 8

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Tower Adds Two New Area Locations

By Sharon Still

Established in ing physicians for 1992, Tower the utmost ease of Radiology Centers, patients and docthe largest physitors. cian owned and Tower operated outRadiology’s clinical patient radiology practice is compractice in Tampa prised of 70 plus Bay, recently board-certified radiopened two new, ologists who subfull service centers specialize in carin Brandon and diac, thoracic, vasSun City Center, cular & interventionbringing its total al, neuro-intervennumber of facilities tional, pedito 14 in atric, musHillsborough and culoskeleTower Radiology Centers, eastern Pasco tal, breast, located at 3862 Sun City Center Blvd. in Ashley Village, counties. body, neuis one of two new locations “We are roradiology, that recently opened. delighted to add nuclear these new quality facilities and staff to medicine the Tower family. Our vision is to provide and emergency radiology. quality outpatient imaging care with ease “Tower is excited to be able to conof access to the Tampa Bay, Brandon tinue growing throughout the Tampa Bay and now Sun City areas,” commented area and hopes to benefit the communiLarry Smith, Tower Radiology Centers ty with these two new convenient locaCEO. “We are eager to expand our abili- tions through advanced technology and ty to bring the combination of profession- subspecialization,” said Smith. al expertise and superior patient care to Tower Radiology – Sun City is locatthe community.” ed at 3862 Sun City Blvd. and is open 8 Tower Radiology Centers offers a a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday (7:30 a.m. vast array of services including MRIs, opening for ultrasounds). The phone ultrasound exams, bone density/DEXA, number is 813-642-9299. The Brandon digital x-ray, echocardiogram, lung location, open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondayscreening, mammography, stress testFriday, is located at 427 S. Parsons ing, CT/CTA imaging and much more. All Ave., Suite 100 and can be reached at exams include interpretations by sub813-315-2080. For appointment schedulspecialized radiologists and are integrat- ing, call 813-248-6937. ed into Tower’s information systems for More information can be obtained quick report and image delivery to order- by visiting www.towerdiagnostic.com.

Celebrate Thanksgiving By Participating In The 2nd Annual Goody Goody Turkey Gobble 5K

By Kathy L. Collins

On Thanksgiving morning, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA invites members of the community to participate in a fun 5k run or one mile walk/run in downtown Tampa. The 2nd Annual Goody Goody™ Turkey Gobble is sponsored by Goody Goody restaurant which is owned and operated by fourth generation coowner and president of the Columbia Restaurant Group, Richard Gonzmart. The race begins at 7 a.m. This fun 5K or one mile walk/run is a chip-timed race, on a USATF-certified course beginning and ending at Amalie Arena. The route is an out and back course, taking participants across the Platt Street Bridge and along the beautiful and scenic Bayshore Boulevard. Strollers and dogs are welcome to join the race, music and family fun. Registration is available at www.runsignup.com. Cost is just $30 per person for the individual and team 5k and $15 per person for the one mile run/walk. 100 percent of the proceeds raised will go to support the LIVESTRONG ® at the YMCA program for cancer survivors and their families. Lalita Llerena, Communications Director for the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA said, “When someone signs up for the Goody Goody Turkey Gooble 5k, they are not just bettering their own health, they are bettering the community. We would not be able to provide LIVE-

Come out and have fun while supporting the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA’s LIVESTRONG ® Program and local cancer survivors and their families by participating in the 2nd Annual Goody Goody™ Turkey Gobble 5K this Thanksgiving.

STRONG ® at the YMCA for free if it was not for the generosity of donors. Proceeds from the 5k ensure that our Ys can continue to provide safe, supportive environments for cancer survivors to build muscle mass and strength, increase flexibility and endurance and improve confidence and self-esteem.” The LIVESTRONG ® Program is available locally at the Campo Family Y and the North Brandon Y. “Goody Goody is the title sponsor because I believe in the Y and in fitness,” said Gonzmart. Goody Goody is also graciously providing free breakfast to all participants after the chip-timed race. Prizes will be awarded to the first place overall male and female adult and first place overall male and female in youth (ages 9 and under). First place prizes will also be awarded by age group (10-19; 20-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 6069; and 70 plus).For more information on the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, please visit www.tampaymca.org.

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Page 9

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Mermaid Brings Books To Life At LLT

By Kate Quesada

Students at The tales also LLT Academy, a offer valuable K-8 independent lessons about charter school in the danger of Tampa, were judging others recently inspired by appearance to help children and language, on the other side the importance of the world of kindness and thanks to a visit gentle from a character approaches to from one of their the issues of favorite books. bullying.” Shannon Jan Shannon DiRuzzo, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine DiRuzzo, Doctor DiRuzzo, the and Assistant Director of Operations for Turtle Island Conservation Breeding, visited students at author of The of Veterinary LLT Academy in Tampa last month for a reading Medicine and Lost Mermaid and presentation of The Lost Mermaid--A Shem Assistant Director Series, has Creek Moonlight Jamboree. of Operations taught writing for Turtle Island Conservation Breeding and literature at both secondary and And Research Center For Turtles and college levels, and she and her husShirley Sullivan, President band Joe are currently serving with the of Eisenhower Middle School PTSA Peace Corps in Tanzania, Africa. visited the school for a reading and According to Sullivan, her sister, presentation of The Lost Mermaid--A LLT Academy media specialist Shem Creek Moonlight Jamboree. Stephanie Groulx, was inspired by the They were joined in a surprise visit by readings to start a cultural exchange Lily the Mermaid and her favorite sidewith Jan and Joe’s children in Pemba kick, Pirate Tybee. Africa. According to Sullivan, who is head “Project Pemba was born,” said of marketing distribution for the Sullivan. “Many of the schools in Africa books, The Lost Mermaid series are are in great need of all school supplies, mythical tales. art work, desks and chairs, balls and “The books can enrich children’s sports equipment just to name a imagination and immerse them in a few. Stephanie has started a donation coastal seascape, where they will meet drive at LLT Academy and has a huge loggerhead turtles, dolphins, oysters, box of supplies to be shipped to crabs and octopus,” said Sullivan, who Africa.” is also a teacher. “They will visit a Email lilythelostmermaid@gmail.co musical jamboree and search for a m. For LLT, call 234-0940 or visit sunken treasure aboard a pirate ship. www.lltacademy.com.

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Page 10

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Leaders In Agriculture Honored At County Fair Kickoff Harvest Luncheon

By Kathy L. Collins

Agriculture Award went to Tony Ippolito who served as the manager of the Tampa Wholesale Produce Market for over 32 years. Ippolito joins the ranks of an elite fraternity of men and women who are pioneers. The Outstanding Woman in Agriculture went to Susan Dumke of Blues Berry Farm in Plant City. Dumke is an advocate for small farmers as well as their workers. Dumke uses creative practices such as paper birds and recordings as a deterrence to live birds in the fields. Dumke said, “I am humbled. The whole farm gets this award.” The Outstanding Agribusiness is Wish Farms in Plant City. Gary Wishnatzki is the third generation to

Since 2000, the Hillsborough County Fair has been honoring pioneers in agriculture at the Annual Harvest Awards Luncheon. This year, the 2016 honorees were recognized on Thursday, October 20 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. The luncheon is also considered the kickoff event for the Annual Hillsborough County Fair. This year’s theme of the fair was “Country Pride County Wide.” Dr. Earl Lennard, President of the Hillsborough County Fair explained, “The Harvest Awards were created by the Extension Service to recognize the accomplishments of families, individuals and organizations for Outstanding leaders and organization serving the agricultural their commitment to community, including the Roy Davis Family, Tony Ippolito, the agriculture and to Hillsborough County 4-H Foundation, Wish Farms and Susan Dumke of Blues Berry Farm were recognized at the 2016 preserve the agriculHillsborough County Fair Harvest Awards Lunch. tural heritage of Hillsborough County. lead the family business that has Dr. Stacy White, a Hillsborough become one of the largest produce County Board of County brokers in the nation. Commissioner who represents Eastern The Public and Community Hillsborough County, read a Service Award went to Hillsborough Proclamation that said in part, “Fairs County 4-H Foundation, an all-volunare an American tradition. Hillsborough teer organization that provides memCounty has deep agricultural roots and bers with various camps and scholarthe fair highlights the skills and talents ships. of the County’s residents.” The first recipients of the This year’s Farm Family of the Posthumous Memorial Tribute Award Year was awarded to the Roy Davis was given in the memory of Lee and Family. They run their nursery operaMinnie Holcomb, dairy farmers who tion in Dover. The family’s impact were passionate about agriculture and stretches far beyond production agripromoted 4-H and FFA youth dairy culture. Roy Davis has served on sevcompetitions. eral boards including the Hillsborough For more information please visit County Farm Bureau. www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com. The Lifetime Achievement in

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Volume 15, Issue 11

Foster Parents Sought For Children In Need Of Specialized Therapeutic Homes

By Kathy L. Collins

H.E.A.D.S. (Healing Educational many excellent agencies in the area. Alternatives for Deserving Students) is Our uniqueness derives from our family an organization with over 70 mental owned team approach, and our 'Delta health therapists that provide in-home Angels' trademark, that we hope therapy to children, adults and families. denotes the importance of this elite They have been providing this care to team to the children we serve along foster homes and mental health servicwith our commitment to providing comes to children in Florida since 1993. prehensive training and clinical support They are partnering with Eckerd and to the children in our care and their fosare expanding its services in to ter parents." Hillsborough County. They are seeking Parents in the program receive 63 foster parents hours of pre-serfor their STFC vice training and (Specialized one hour of addiTherapeutic tional, ongoing Foster Care) training each program. month thereafter. According There are no fees to Ted Waller, for training. H.E.A.D.S.(Healing Educational Alternatives for CEO, Parents who Deserving Students) is seeking foster parents for children in need of specialized therapeutic "Hundreds of are accepted are homes. H.E.A.D.S. excels at creating a team children in compensated a approach with highly trained foster parents. As a Hillsborough daily rate of $50 result, traumatized children in foster care are able to realize their full potential. County are to $65 per day. needing This must not be STFC. Eckerd provides services to the family's only source of income. All approximately 2900 children in our prospective parents must be able to county. Approximately 10 percent of pass a thorough background check. those children are in need of specialThose interested in becoming fosized therapeutic homes." ter parents for this special group of chilH.E.A.D.S. STFC program currentdren, should call Dee Dee Parker, ly has 20 therapeutic foster homes in STFC Coordinator at 754-5555. There Polk County and provides 24 hour ther- will be an informal informational sesapeutic support for children that have sion on November 28. Please call been abused. Waller added, "The foster Parker for more information on times parents in our organization are called and location. 'Delta Angels' a term coined by the fact H.E.A.D.S. is located at 1001 E. that they are angels on earth for the Baker St., #100 in Plant City. For more children in their care." information, please visit According to Waller, "There are www.headsusa.com.

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Page 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Angeloni Offers One Stop Financial Shop By Kate Quesada Asset manferred member on agement, preAngie’s List. retirement and “We have estate planning access to all the services. For experts at our finmany, these gertips and words are intimiresolve and/or dating and almost plan around like a foreign lanalmost any finanguage, but cial, insurance and Riverview resident estate tax issue Howie Angeloni, that may be on owner of the Tax your horizon,” Riverview resident Howie Angeloni has created a said Howie. Advisory Group one-stop financial center at the Angeloni Tax and TAG According to Advisory Group on Balm Riverview Rd. Investment Howie, one of the Advisors LLC, has created a one-stop main strengths of his company is that shop in Riverview to help residents with they make sure they know each of their all their financial needs. customers personally and figure out the After 21 years in the U.S. Air Force, best financial plan for them. “We work Howie decided that a career in financial with each and every one of our clients to and tax advisory would be the perfect design a personal financial plan based on match for his love of numbers and desire their goals and desires,” he said. to help others. He opened his office more Clients range from residents wanting than 15 years ago and has been assistto make large investments to those who ing clients with every aspect of their finan- do not have a lot of assets but want to cial well-being ever since. make sure what they do have is not wast“The entire focus of this organization ed. is client prosperity,” said Howie. “We offer “My favorite clients are the moms a tremendous amount of services all and dads who don’t think they have under one roof to help our clients in all enough money to invest. That’s sad. facets of financial planning; starting from Every dollar is important to me and I pre-retirement through retirement and full make sure my clients know that,” said estate and tax planning.” Howie, whose children and grandchildren Howie is a member of the Riverview all live in the Riverview area. Chamber of Commerce. He holds licensAngeloni Tax Advisory Group, which es for insurance, investments and long is planning an expansion later this year, is term care and is a member of the located at 11932 Balm Riverview Rd. in National Association of Insurance, Riverview and can be reached at 626Financial Advisors with an A+ rating from 7575. For more information, visit the Better Business Bureau, and is a pre- www.riverviewfinancialplanning.com.

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Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Annual Seafood Festival Rocks Ruskin Shop Local And Visit Florida Santa

At Holiday Expo By Marie Gilmore

By Kate Quesada

Last year, more than 25,000 people enjoyed delicious food, live music and actives for the whole family at the annual Ruskin Seafood Festival and this year’s event, There will be food taking place and entertainment for November 5 everyone at the Ruskin Seafood and 6 at E.G. Festival at E.G. Simmons water- Simmons Park on front park, prom- November 5 and 6. ises to be another weekend to remember. Located right on Tampa Bay with views of the water and downtown St. Petersburg, the park is easily accessible and the perfect spot to enjoy seafood, music and family fun. “Just like the SouthShore area has grown so much….so does this festival,” said SouthShore Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Melanie Rimes. Starting at 10 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, the event, in it’s 28th year, features vendors serving culinary specialities from seafood favorites like crab, fish, shrimp, clams and oysters, to chicken, burgers and BBQ for the land rovers and festival favorites for all to enjoy. “There are tons of options, too many to list,” said Rimes, who explained that the prices for food vary at each booth. “There is something for everyone, that is for sure.” In addition to the food, there will also

be an arts and crafts show with a variety of vendors and exhibits and two stages of entertainment with music for every taste from oldies to classic rock, reggae and dance music. Featured bands on Saturday include Spy vs. Spy, Kozmic Pear, Zebron and James, Six Gun Republic and Broken Tail Light on Saturday and 3 O’Clock Rain, a Christian Rock band, and La Lucha on Sunday. Ronnie Davis, who performs oldies and Elvis songs, will also play. “Proceeds benefit the SouthShore Chamber which annually helps area businesses and advocates for economic development and continued, proper growth in the SouthShore area,” said Rimes. The event is pet friendly, although all animals must be on a leash. There is a $2 per car entry fee, which goes directly to Hillsborough County, to get into the park. Admission to the festival is an additional $5 per person but children under 12 and active military with ID are free. All activities, food and drink inside the festival have additional fees. Call 645-1366 or email admin@southshorechamberofcommerce.org. The park is located at 2401 19th Ave. N.E. in Ruskin.

‘crowned’ during the event. Families will enjoy music, shop the local business booths, enjoy games and pick up a few treats for Holiday gift giving. “We wanted to host an event that help introduce our businesses to the community and also make it fun for parents and families this holiday season,” said Valrico/FishHawk Florida Santa will be on hand with his Flock of Corporate Flamingos at the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber Holiday Fest & Chamber Event Expo held on Saturday, December 3 from 9 a.m.-12 Noon at Coordinator Bridget Park Square. Jenkins Wilson, owner of Celebrate the holidays in true Florida Cardinal Roofing. style and pick up a few items from local Sign up at WWW.VALRICOFISHvendors to fill that holiday wish list at the HAWK.ORG. Chamber member booths: second Shop Local-Holiday Expo at $50 for members with corporate chalFishHawk’s Park Square on Saturday, lenge flamingo. Non-chamber member December 3, 9 a.m.-12 Noon. booths: $100 with corporate challenge The idea of an old-fashioned, family flamingo. Proceeds from the event will fun expo with Florida Santa, games, benefit Center Place Fine Arts & Civic treats for kids, business booths and local Center. crafters, all gathering for a holiday event FishHawk Park Square is located in was developed and the first annual Shop the heart of FishHawk Ranch at the corLocal Holiday Expo was created last ner of Dorman Rd. and Churchside Dr. year. The event is free to attend. Join more than 50 local business Business booths are still available booths and take a photo with Florida and cost $50 for Chamber members and Santa and his sleigh pulled by a 'Flock of $100 for nonmembers and include a Flamingos', which have been decorated Flamingo to decorate and a 10x10 space by local businesses Holiday Flamingo at the event. Challenge. Each flamingo is sponsored Email questions to Bridget@cardinalby a local business and judges will deterroofingandsolar.com. mine the best decorated flamingos to be

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November 2016

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sunflower Cafe In Stein Mart Plaza Offers Something For Everyone

By Kate Quesada

When putting together the menu for their Valrico restaurant, The Sunflower Cafe, co-owners Tatsu Horikawa and Kumi Tamura wanted to make sure they had something for every budget and taste. It seems evident that they have achieved this and more in their The staff at Sunflower Cafe on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. welcome customers every day for lunch and dinner with sushi and popular cafe on Lithia Japanese inspired dishes. Pinecrest Rd. “We want our restaurant to be some- FishHawk residents who have worked together for many years, are really enjoywhere everyone feels comfortable,” said ing their new space and location in the Horikawa, who is also the cafe’s chef. Stein-Mart and The Fresh Market“We welcome all age groups from little anchored plaza. “Because the location is children to older people.” we can pay a lot of attention to small, Open seven days a week for lunch every customer,” said Horikawa, who and dinner, the restaurant offers a full added that every member of their staff sushi menu and Japanese inspired cuifeels the same way. “Everyone who sine with dishes ranging from Horikawa’s works here is a special part of our team. favorite fried rice, to hibachi, teriyaki Each individual really takes pride in their meals and a large variety of fish, seafood, work.” meat and vegetarian entrees. Horikawa Sunflower Cafe also offers lunch speemphasizes that all the food is made to cials including a popular bento box menu order with the highest quality ingredients, which includes a choice of entree, a and that their goal is to make sure that salad and rice or vegetable and soup, every customer is satisfied every time sushi combos with soup and salad. Beer, they visit. wine and saki are also available. “As owners, we have to make sure For more information, visit www.sunthat dining out is worth it for our cusflowercafe.net or call 657-8744. tomers,” said Horikawa. “We want to make the experience special and the food Sunflower Cafe is located at 3452 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and is open Monday-Friday so good that people don’t walk out of 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-9 p.m., here thinking that they should have just Saturday 12 Noon-9 p.m. and Sunday 12 stayed home.” Noon-8:30 p.m. Horikawa and Tamura, both

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Freedom To Walk Foundation Gifts A WalkAide At Gala Staff Report

In October, Christian Mendez, 21, from Orlando, got a new way of life at the Freedom to Walk Foundation’s Fourth Annual One Step At A Time Gala at the Centre Club in Tampa. Thanks to the WalkAide® sponsors American Dream Home Mortgage and Hanger Clinic-Kissimmee, Businesses and the Community, Mendez will (L-R) Emily Zmoda, Christian Mendez, Daisy Vega, no longer struggle to walk, now that he will have his own Daniel Rios, Ron Klein and David Kauffman Freedom to Walk Foundation’s Fourth Annual One Step At A Time WalkAide®, a revolutionary Gala at the Centre Club in Tampa. electronic device that when Mendez was diagnosed with Brain worn on the calf, sends electric impulses Cancer. Multiple doctors in Puerto Rico to the affected foot, causing the foot and said there was not much hope for his surleg to lift and follow through as they vival due to the placement of the tumor. would with a natural, unimpaired gait. Many doctors in the US also told them Inspirational speeches about overthere was little hope and were unwilling to coming adversities from Keynote perform the surgical procedure. They Speakers Ron Klein, inventor of the found hope in Tennessee with St. Jude’s Magnetic Strip on the Credit Card, develResearch Hospital. oper of computerized systems for Real Mendez has limited use of his left Estate (MLS) Multiple Listing Services arm and leg. His foot drop is a condition and other inventions that have changed characterized by weakness or paralysis the world and David Kauffman Ziglar of the muscles involved in lifting the front Legacy Certified Speaker, Trainer and part of the foot necessary for people to Coach. Gala’s MC Jenn Holloway, walk causing a person to either drag the anchors News Channel 8 at 8 on Great foot and toes or engage in a high-step38. Klein said “There is a gift behind ping walk called steppage gait. every challenge. If you are not giving, you “We look forward to enriching the are not living.” lives of more children and adults with foot Daisy Vega, Founder of the Freedom drop.” to Walk Foundation, invited the family to Visit the Gala under false pretenses and told www.FreedomToWalkFoundation.com or them that this would be an opportunity for contact Daisy Vega at 546-2329 or them to meet people and fundraise for Daisy.Vega@FreedomToWalkFoundation their son’s WalkAide®. .com.

Page 14

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Brandon Elks Lodge Bags of Brotherly Love Will Help Area Homeless

By Michelle Colesanti

Nine year I could not afford old Edwin the expense, so I Font’s home lived in my car for life in Palatka, six months until Florida was not one day a fellow the best, yet employee got wind he was more of my situation and concerned offered me a room about the in his home. That homeless he was the lift I needBrandon Elks’ members volunteer for the new ed to help get me saw in his program, Bags of Brotherly Love. This new neighborhood. back on track in program will help the homeless living in the area. Not wanting life.” He wants to them to go incorporate more hungry, he started preparing peanut butthan just food and nourishment into the ter and jelly sandwiches. The program bags, adding, “We have volunteers who Edwin’s Happy Bags was started. It wish to donate clothing and other hygiene wasn’t long before he received donations products to help bring a little more dignity from several private citizens and the city back into their lives.” of Palatka. Robert (Bob) Blair, a member Over 400 homeless men, woman of the Brandon Elks’ Lodge #2383, and and children, including veterans, live in his wife Elisa spent time with Edwin and the immediate area. Bags of Brotherly were so taken with his project, they Love will be distributed to the homeless brought the idea to the Brandon Elks and by the Elk volunteers on a monthly basis Bags of Brotherly Love was created. bringing bags, conversation, and informaJoyce Dominick Schaefer, Grants tion on where help is available for both Coordinator, was tasked with writing a physical and mental needs, and most of proposal for funds to finance the program. all a smile and spirit to show that “Elks The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Care Elks Share”. along with Josh Boyer, Hillsborough Blair would love to see this go County Homeless Coordinator, got statewide for the Elks. “There is a lot that involved, along with several businesses in we can do, and a lot that still needs to be the area, who agreed to help with ondone to help the plight of the homeless. going aid to the program. Working hand in hand with the Along with other private donations, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s office the Brandon Lodge and Brandon Ladies Community Outreach Organization and of Elks also donated over $1,000. the Homeless Coalition of Hillsborough Blair knows firsthand what it is to be County has been a great experience and hungry. “I, too, was one of the unfortuhelp,” he said. nates 35 years ago. I had a job that wasFor more info call Brandon Elks n't paying much, and a car, but no home. Lodge at 685-6469.

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Page 15

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Randall & Barrington Middle Schools Offer Counseling To Military Kids & Families

By Tamas Mondovics

Every member of communication and a military family relationships at knows all too well the home and at school, wide variety of issues life skills such as imposed on them by problem solving, military life. But coping conflict resolution, with these demands adjusting to change, may be most difficult issues including bulfor the family’s chillying and anger dren and to help, the management as well Department of as changes on the Defense (DoD) funds home front such as the Child and Youth deployment and Behavioral Military reunion, divorce, Counselor Tammy Alsing, left is welcomand Family Life grief and loss. ing military mom Nikki Hall to Randall Middle School. Hall recently moved to Counselor (CYBAlsing added FishHawk from Alabama. MFLC) program, that counseling which plays a key role in giving military makes a difference through the use of children the support they may need durprograms such as behavioral intervention ing some of the more challenging periin classrooms and feedback to parents ods. and staff through discussions and interacContracted by the Hillsborough tions with children. County Public Schools, children of military “Counseling is always confirmed by families who attend Barrington and the parents ahead of time and is at times Randall Middle Schools have been enjoy- available in group sessions, which can ing the federally funded services of one include civilian students as well,” Alsing such counselor, Tammy Alsing. said, but added that services are private Specializing in child and behavioral and confidential with the exception of issues, Alsing brings years of experience child abuse or neglect, domestic abuse at no cost to the more than 100 military and other duty-to-warn situations. children at Barrington. Randall currently Each week, Barrington Middle boasts of 150 military children. School military children and families may “We cover a wide variety of issues take advantage of Alsing’s expertise on the students are dealing with at school or Mondays and Tuesdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 at home, both on and off campus,” Alsing p.m. said. “My hope is that parents and the On Wednesdays, Thursdays and students are aware of the support that Fridays, Alsing’s services are utilized at are provided for them exclusively.” Randall. For more information, about According to Alsing, MFLCs can Hillsborough County Public Schools, address issues related to self-esteem, please visit www. sdhc.k12.fl.us.

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Page 16

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Something for Everyone At FishHawk Fitness And Boxing

By Michelle Caceres

Weekend warriors Dominic, who has and top-tier athletes been training with alike find something Keene for more four appealing about honyears, said he put him ing their workout region a strict plan that has men at FishHawk helped him gain weight Fitness and Boxing. and muscle mass. Owner Warren “I was one of the “Shannon" Keene’s biggest guys on the personal training facilijunior varsity team, defty, located at 2310 initely the biggest Thompson Rd., feafreshman, and I owe tures more than 60 that to Mr. Keene,” he resistance machines, said. several cardio Although he’s not machines, five puncha fan of “leg days” ing bags, eight over(when he spends a sized tires for flipping, grueling amount of two sleds for pulling time doing squats and Riverview High freshman Dominic leg presses) and the and a boxing ring. His clients include Gonnella credits FishHawk Fitness tiring feeling that and Boxing for preparing him to men, women and chilcomes with them, he make the varsity football team. dren, who each knows the end result is receive a tailored fitness plan developed worth it. “I’m an all-around better athto help achieve the client’s goals, lete,” he said. whether it be increased strength, weight Keene can sympathize with athletes loss or to learn the art of boxing. wanting to step up their game. Keene has trained some of the “I’m an ex-boxer and train side-byarea’s best athletes, including Newsome side with my clients unlike a lot of other graduate and football star Connor trainers that sit around and train by Powers, who ran for more than 4,500 yelling through a bullhorn,” he said. “I yards in his four-year career with the have a passion for what I do and love school’s football team, Anthony the challenge of helping my clients Gonnella, a former Riverview varsity reach their fitness goals.” baseball player, who is now a freshman Keene offers personal as well as at USF on a sports scholarship and his group training at very competitive rates. brother Dominic, a freshman varsity For more information about football player at Riverview who is curFishHawk Fitness and Boxing or to rently leading the district in rushing schedule a free introductory session call yards. 767-6504.

Volume 15, Issue 11

November 2016

Gifts Of Hope Heifer International Living Gift Market

FINANCIAL FOCUS

By Amanda Boston

On Heifer Wednesday, International November provides 16, First impoverished Presbyterian communities Church of with a means Brandon will to improve its transform its local food fellowship sources by hall into the ultimately Heifer Living becoming a Gift Market self-sustainpresenting an The Heifer Living Gift Market is a free family-oriented ing communievent providing an alternative to commercial alternative to ty. holiday gift giving. the re-gifted Dawn stale fruitcake. This unconventional Trattner, a First Presbyterian Church market offers patrons the opportunity to member and key organizer of the purchase livestock like heifers, chickevent, traveled to Honduras with Heifer ens, goats, fish, and pigs as well as International where she witnessed firstclean water and tree seedlings for hun- hand the global impact of the program gry families around the world. There is through its ceremony Passing on the no livestock on the grounds to purGift. At the ceremony, the original chase; however, honor cards will be recipient of a Heifer animal is required available to designate a Heifer animal to share the animal’s offspring, knowlin a loved one’s name. edge, and other resources to a neighEvery other year, First Presbyterian bor. Trattner said, “The difference with pairs up with Heifer International to Heifer International is the training and support its mission to help end hunger education the local farmers receive.” and poverty through livestock, educaTrattner continued to clarify with the tion, and training. The Heifer Living Gift following baking analogy, “Ingredients Market is a free event open to the pub- like flour and eggs are essential, but lic from 6-8 p.m. welcoming visitors of without the recipe, you can’t bake the all ages. Upon arrival, you can expect bread.” family-oriented entertainment while First Presbyterian Church is locatexperiencing thought provoking educa- ed at 121 Carver Ave., Brandon. For tional animal exhibits. The market is an more information on the Heifer Living intergenerational event as the entire Gift Market, you may contact the church unites to create a carnival-like church office at 689-4597 or atmosphere filled with food, fun, and www.fpcbrandon.org. If you would like games. Refreshments will be available to learn more about Heifer for a small donation with compliments International, please refer to its of Chick-fil-A of Lake Brandon Village. Website www.heifer.org.

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Volume 15, Issue 11

Fair Shows Blue Ribbon Country Pride By Tamas Mondovics

Former Rodgers Middle School Teacher Arrested For Lewd And Lascivious Conduct With A Juvenile Following a three learned that Geist was still promonth investigation, viding the phone service and Hillsborough County seized the cell phone, for eviSheriff’s detectives dentiary purposes. arrested a former middle On Monday, September school teacher at Rogers 12, 2016, Geist was arrested Middle School in at his residence without inciRiverview for providing a dent on a warrant for Lewd or smart phone to a student Lascivious Conduct and requesting that she Solicitation, and was transporttake sexually explicit piced and booked into the tures and video of herself Former Rodgers Middle Hillsborough County Orient School Teacher, Michael in sexual situations. Geist, 31, was arrested Road Jail. Geist reportedly for providing a smart Brandon resident, posted $7,500 bond the followphone to a student and ing day. Michael Geist, 31, was a requesting sexually explicit teacher at Rogers Middle pictures and video of herWhile the investigation School during the second self. The incident reminded continues, the incident is parents to keep a close another strong reminder for semester of the 2015eye on their children’s 2016 school year. activities, on computers parents to keep a close eye on and mobile devices. Investigators said, their children’s activities. that in April 2016, Geist Thanks to technology, sexgave the smart phone to the student as a ting has become all too common and, gift and set up applications such as email young people become victims. Sexual and social media accounts on the phone, cyber crimes targeting children, are requesting her to have sexual communikeeping detectives and investigators cations with other students to include busy. sending nude pictures. Geist requested One example of such crimes, that the student take sexually explicit pictures has made headlines in recent times is and video of herself in sexual situations, Sextortion, which occurs when someone detectives said. threatens to distribute private and sensiIn May 2016, staff at Rogers Middle tive material. School were made aware of the allegaLocal law enforcement officials contion and notified the Sheriff’s Office, inititinually urging parents to communicate ating an investigation, which has prompt- with their children as well as supervise ed Geist to resign from Rogers Middle their computer or mobile device usage. School. For more info about the HCSO During the investigation detectives please visit www.hcso.tampa.fl.us.

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There is a lot more to this year’s Hillsborough County Fair, which opens its gates just east of Brandon on October 20, than the traditional midway rides and fried food. “The County Fair offers an opportunity for residents of all ages to enter and display their talents,” said Janet Aversa, Hillsborough County Fair Board Member. “From cooking to rug hooking, and baking to picture taking, from sewing to growing and animals large and small.” The fair, which is held at the county fair grounds on Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover, will be open October 20-23 and October 27-30 and boasts many events including talents shows, Battle of the Bands, a Harvest Queen Scholarship Contest, many livestock shows, baby pageants and contests in plants, photography, arts and more. “There will be lots of blue ribbons and eye catching entries to reflect the talents of the folks in Hillsborough County,” said Aversa, who adds that new this year is an expanded 7,000 sq. ft. air conditioned area to display family living, arts and crafts, fine arts and photography. “Early entries are encouraged and forms are available on the Website.” In addition to the livestock area, which features daily shows of youth and their animals, is an Agricultural Education Center that offers fair goers a chance to learn more about life on the farm and in the country. “From baby chicks to the ‘milkable’ cow or the new scavenger hunt in the livestock area, it is education mixed

By Kate Quesada

Hillsborough County Fair’s theme is Country Pride. Opens October 20.

with entertainment,” said Aversa. Highlights of the paid Arena Events include Ranch Rodeos, truck, tractor and lawnmower pulls and a demolition derby in addition to the traditional midway rides, fair foods and livestock shows. Free entertainment in the midway includes Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Paddling’ Porkers, a fire fighter show and circus acts. New to the fair this year in the Entertainment Tent is a Gospel Jam on Sunday afternoons which, according to Aversa, offers a mix of old-time hymns and contemporary music. The Entertainment Tent is also home to the Children’s Pageant, the Western Wear Contest and the County Fair Talent Showcase. Tickets to the fair, which cost $7 for adults, $5 for students and $4 for seniors go on sale October 1 and can also be purchased at the gate. Arena events are an additional $10 per person. For more information, visit www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com or call 737-FAIR. 215 Sydney Washer Rd., Dover.

November 2016

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Page 19

Page 20

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

The Creative Artist Gallery Helps American Heroes Paint A New Picture

Get In Step To Help Joshuacord Raise Funds For Refugees

Staff Report

By Tatiana Ortiz

do raffles as well. Along with that, Love Coffee Inc. and The Noise Box will be the business sponsors for the art show. With commitment to promote own material, businesses will not be charged to have their logo or information incorporated into The Creative Artist Gallery website and Facebook page. “The funds raised The Creative Artist Gallery Will Host its First American Heroes from the art show will Charitable Event. be utilized to purchase On Veteran’s Day, November 11, art supplies for the Veterans in this profrom 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., The Creative Artist gram,” Martin said. Gallery will host a charitable event Art All types of mediums such as phoShow called American Heroes. Owner tography, painting and much more will be Vanessa Martin from The Creative Artist accepted in the American Heroes Art Gallery mentioned that this show will be Show. Veterans from the program and dedicated to those who have served and other artists in the community can particicontinue to serve. Ten percent of propate. With limited space available artists ceeds from sales will go towards The Art can submit up to three pieces. Therapy Program at the James A. Haley Submissions must be family friendly and Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa. original work. Cost to enter will be $10 This program specifically works with per person or three for $20. Also, art Veterans who suffer from brain injuries, drop off dates will be from November physical injuries and Post Traumatic 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 8th and 9th. Stress Disorder (PTSD). Through art, the “I would love to see people come out program provides another outlet for the and support this cause,” Martin said. Veterans to cope with their emotions. For more information visit Also, the program does not possess a http://www.thecreativeartistgallery.com. It budget for supplies and operates through is located at 933 E. Brandon Blvd. in donations. Brandon. Hours of operation are Tuesday To assist with raising more funds, through Friday 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. and The Creative Artist Gallery will create an Saturday 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Call 863-514online fundraiser through Facebook and 0223.

Christians will band together to support those in the Middle East being persecuted for their faith at the upcoming Freedom Run.

You can help support Joshuacord’s efforts to help refugees in the Middle East by stepping up to participate in its Fourth Annual Joshua 1:9 Freedom Run 5K. The event kicks off at 8 a.m. on Saturday, November 19 at Al Lopez Park, 4810 N. Himes Ave. in Tampa. Families, children, serious runners, supporters and cheerleaders are encouraged to attend. There will be a separate start at 8:10 a.m. for walkers and strollers. Spirit FM (90.5 FM) will be onsite to promote the festivities. Joshuacord’s mission is to help those persecuted for their Christian faith, especially in the Middle East and Africa. Proceeds for the 5K will go to families and children who are living in refugee camps in the Middle East. Because of sponsor support, $5,700 was raised from last year’s run and 100% of it was donated to help these families. Monies raised from this year’s 5K will be donated to the same group as they still have many unmet needs. At the run, organizers will also be collecting baby blankets, gloves, and hats to ship to moms and families in refugee camps.

Joshuacord Founder Patrick Carberry, through his military experience and work with the government, witnessed first-hand the lack of religious freedom due to Islamic extremism and put together Joshuacord to raise awareness. “As most of you have seen, there is more media attention on the urgent issue of Christians being persecuted in Iraq, Syria, Iran and Africa,” noted Carberry. He added that the goal is to get the community engaged, raise awareness and provide hope, prayers, financial and material aid to the Christians in those countries. The 5K Freedom Run is made possible through sponsors, the support of local churches and pastors and all those who participate on race day. “We are so appreciative for your prayers, time and support,” commented Carberry. Registration fee is $25 if completed by November 17 and $30 on race day. Active duty members pay $20. The one mile Fun Run/Walk is $15 preregistration. To register, visit http://www.active.com or download the registration form to mail from www.joshuacord.org/5k. This is a great opportunity for the Tampa community to come together and impact a crisis occurring to Christians in the Middle East. Joshuacord is a non-profit 501(c)(3) located at 3433 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Visit www.joshuacord.org or call 202643-8588 or on Facebook.

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November 2016

Page 21

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

New Movie Theaters...Con’t From Page 1...

By Tamas Mondovics

adding, “We have better seats also.” While each facility pretty much offers the same thing, theater representatives agreed that keeping old guests and winning new ones comes down to much more than Xscape Theaters is nearing completion and will feature 14 just the size and screens while offering a wide variety of special features to movie number of goers.

ners are the local movie goers, who will now have three multiplex theaters, nearly 50 screens, plush seats, great snacks and refreshments along with a truck load of extra special amenities to Goodrich Quality Theaters, is now building Riverview 14 GDX one of choose from as two new multiplex theaters scheduled to open for the holiday season. they look forward The new theater is featuring 14 screens and a wide range of special to a great movie amenities. experience durscreens, expanded food menus, extra ing the upcoming holiday season and wide rows or the plush reclining chairs, beyond. all of which are actually up to each For more information about AMC guest’s personal preference. The Regency 20 Theaters, please visit “We realize, the Greater Brandon www.amctheatres.com, Riverview 14 area communities will now have more DGX Theaters, please visit choices in the area for movie theaters,” www.goodrichqualitytheaters.com. Nash said, adding, “We will be competiFor more about Xscape Theaters, tive with ticket and concession prices.” please visit www.xscapetheatres.com. It is safe to say that the real win-

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 15, Issue 11

Christmas Town™, Returns To Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay

Staff Report

The annual holiday tradition, Christmas Town™, returns to Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay with more than two million twinkling lights, festive treats, holiday entertainment and unique attractions, including the all-new addition of the beloved Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. The popular event takes place on 23 select dates from Friday, November 25 to Saturday, December 31, with fan-favorite entertainment and new twists: New this year is Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland, located in the Celestial Crossing. Meet and take photos with Rudolph, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and Bumble. Play holiday games and indulge in Yuletide treats while scenes of the beloved story

any annual pass, Fun Card or daily admission to the park. Guests who purchase a 2017 Annual Pass now, get three months free. From worldclass roller coasters and Broadwaystyle entertainment to one-of-a-kind, up-close animal encounters, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay continues to deliver some of the biggest thrills anywhere. Christmas Town will also offer some magnificent opportunities for groups looking to book a unique holiday party. For details, call the Busch Gardens Events Team at 987-5523. For a complete list of seasonal sights and unforgettable Yuletide experiences, visit ChristmasTown.com. Plus, be the first to know about

Christmas Town™ returns to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for select nights beginning Friday, November 25.

of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer come to life. Santa’s House presented by Coca-Cola®: The Claus family invites you into their North Pole home. While

the elves are busy preparing for Christmas, Santa is taking a break from his busy holiday schedule to meet and take photos with families in his private study. Nestled between beautifully lit trees and roaring with excitement, some of the best views of Christmas Town can be found atop Florida’s top thrill rides, including the all-new family spin coaster, Cobra’s

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Curse™. Guests can also expect the return of fan-favorite shows that ring in the season, including Christmas on Ice, Carol of the Bells light show and the Holiday Hills Brass Band. Christmas Town is open until 10 p.m. on select dates and will close at 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. For New Year’s Eve, the event will remain open until 1 a.m. Christmas Town is included with

new events, special deals and future announcements by following the park’s blog at BuschGardensTampaBlog.com, or follow Busch Gardens on Facebook, Twitter, Instag ram and Snapchat.

November 2016

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 15, Issue 11

See Inside For More News Section 2 of 3 November 2016 Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

www.ospreyobserver.com

FishHawk Youth Shooters Win National Title

By Nick Nahas

With two state titles and two national championships under its belt, the Fishhawk Dynasty Club is living up to its name as a dynasty. Started in 2013, the club is a chapter of the nationallyrecognized Scholastic Clay Target Program, which teaches organized shooting to students aged 8 to 18.The club has picked up a lot of steam, increasing from a handful of students in its first year to 32 students in its third year. The club has 15 volunteer coaches that come out every other weekend from anywhere between two to four hours during the season to help coach their students and instill confidence in them. Head instructor Joe Mandracchia, who recently retired after 40 years of teaching, has combined his love of the sport with his FishHawk Dynasty Sporting Clays National Team. commitment to mentoring young people. He beams with pride as ers bond with each other. “The kids throughout the entire year are he talks about his students and the coached to see what we see, to say progress they have made. what we say,” Mandracchia said. During Nationals competition in “When they see their teammate getColumbus, Ohio in July, coaches ting frustrated, they can calm them weren't allowed to coach their players and they had to stand across the road down and talk them back into what from them. This really helped the play- they are supposed to do. It’s an inter-

KITCHEN REMODEL TIPS TO AVOID MISTAKES THAT COST YOU MONEY Everyone's heard the horror stories of the remodel that went wrong, very wrong: the remodeler skips town with the deposit, the product doesn't arrive and you wait months for a workable kitchen or bathroom, the kitchen is le! so dirty and in such disarray that it takes days to clean it up and feel like you can cook in it again. It doesn't have to be that way! There are honest, hard working remodelers out there who are good at what they do and will make your kitchen, bath, or wood floor look spectacular for a reasonable price. So, what should you look out for when entrus#ng your beloved home to someone you don't know? Here are five common mistakes you can avoid. We'll also give you some #ps on things you can do to ensure your remodeling experience is the best it can be. 1. Don't always expect your kitchen remodel project to run perfectly. Problems most likely will arise. If you get upset about a few days slippage, you'll drive yourself insane. Remember, you will have this kitchen for a good number of years. A few days here or there are insignificant to the overall result. The important thing is that your remodeler is reac#ng to it, ge$ng it handled and gets everything back on track as soon as possible. For example, your kitchen remodel pulls the old cabinets oﬀ and discovers there has been a leak that has ro&ed the flooring and joists under the floor, so everything must stop un#l another company can come in and fix it. If everyone is busy,

including his daughter, Abbey. “You see them go from these little kids that are timid and afraid, and they start understanding their sport and their confidence grows,” he said. “In the case of my daughter, it’s given her that confidence and drive that she has carried over into her schoolwork. It affects every aspect of their lives, and that’s why our main goal is to build good citizens.” The club, which practices Trevor Hinton, is the 2016 State and National Rookie Champion. two Sundays a month at Fishhawk Sporting Clays in Lithia, runs on donations, fundraising and sponsorships, which help offset the cost to the students. “It’s an expensive sport. We can control the costs to a certain degree and we can make it affordable for someone who wants to learn the sport, but to really elevate them up into the Holden Pollock, Hale Sollmann, Trevor Hinton and Coach championship levels, it Lonnie Hatcher — 2016 Rookie National Champs. takes a tremendous esting thing to see the kids go from amount of funds and effort. We are being as quiet as this table, to interalways looking to do fundraisers to acting with each other.” help the kids,” Wigh said. Assistant Coach Dan Wigh said Donations to the Fishhawk their teaching method is geared to Shooting Sports Foundation are tax youth, encouraging them to self-cordeductible and can be sent to 13505 rect and coach themselves. He has Hobson Simmons Rd., Lithia, FL seen positive effects on his students, 33547.

it could be a week or more. You need to be prepared for that possibility. Don't worry, a good kitchen remodel company will let you know about the problem immediately and oﬀer solu#ons to get the project back on track as soon as possible. 2. Don't expect a working kitchen un!l the project's done unless otherwise stated. Make arrangements so you won't need one. Kitchen cabinet refacing does not shut down your kitchen, but new countertops in addi#on to cabinet refacing will. You will probably be without running water and a sink for a day or two. New kitchens are shut down on day one, as soon as the old cabinets are torn out. Depending on the countertop chosen, you're typically looking at 24 weeks before you have a fully func#onal kitchen again. 3. Don't start your remodel before you've chosen your appliances. Make sure you have the specs in the remodeler’s hands prior to cabinets being ordered. That way they can arrange a be&er fit for the appliance into the cabinets. This applies especially to wall ovens, built in microwaves, cook tops, and large refrigerators. 4. Make sure you check out your kitchen remodeler thoroughly in advance. Call their references, talk to friends and family who might have worked with them before. There are such things as "diﬃcult" or "unreasonable" clients, though. If a remodeler has a bad comment or complaint, consider it against the length of #me they've been in business and ask them to explain any issues you found. It is expected that on occasion, good remodelers may have bad customers. If you see a pa&ern of complaints, however, you know you shouldn't use that company. Check your kitchen remodeler’s reviews on

sites like Angie’s List. Good remodelers have consistently “A” ra#ngs and display the “Super Service Award”. You should be comfortable with and "click" with the remodeler you've chosen for your remodel. Make sure they have a good amount of experience, posi#ve references and valid liability insurance if something does go wrong. 5. Don't fall for the "big discount if you sign now" rou!ne. Some re modeling companies offer huge discounts if you sign with them on the spot. If they offer an extremely large discount, it just means their price is too high to begin with. It is more cost effec#ve for the company to be able to wrap things up on the first call, so a modest discount to save a second trip is reasonable, just use common sense. High quality companies won't use highpressure tac#cs to get you to sign. Their products, services and references speak for themselves. If there’s anything we can do to help, please don’t hesitate to call us, offers military veteran Ma& Pierce, who coowns the Kitchen TuneUp Tampa loca#on with wife, Lorna. “Addi#onally, Kitchen TuneUp assures our client's sa#sfac#on with our eight trustpoints and wri&en guarantees.” The Kitchen TuneUp Tampa team can provide a completely updated kitchen or bathroom in less than one week without the mess or cost of a complete tearout. To schedule a free inhome consulta!on and es!mate, call Kitchen TuneUp today at (813)3452063.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Riding Bikes And Raising Money For Children In Need

By Amy Schechter

New York Times bestseller, H. Jackson Brown, Jr. urges us to “[r]emember that children… and flower gardens reflect the kind of care they get.” Children truly liken to flowers and have the potential to blossom into creative, productive adults, yet many youth experience abuse and neglect right here in the Tampa area and require additional care from a responsible, loving adult in order to grow. That is where the Guardian ad Litem program enters. Through the unique relationships they form Come out and support Hillsborough's children at the 6th Annual Guardian Toy Run and Toy with their children, guardian’s ad Drive. litem are volunteers who act as voices for children who are experidonation or meet at the after-party encing the stress of shuffling through slated to begin at 12 Noon at One the child welfare system, and they Night Stand Smokehouse, 1602 Hwy. need your support. 60 in Valrico. The entrance fee per As a result, the 6th Annual person is $15 plus one new toy which Guardian Toy Run and Toy Drive covers food and drinks, a raffle ticket, hopes to make a positive difference. and a t-shirt. It is sure to be a fantastic Bryan Taylor began organizing the autumn ride, and more importantly, all event with his family after his father proceeds will be donated to provide had been a guardian ad litem for a toys, batteries, and gift cards to chilnumber of years. Guardian’s ad litem dren with the holidays soon approachtry to provide gifts for their children’s ing. birthdays and holidays. Taylor notes, Taylor also hopes to plant a “There’s not a huge bunch of them, so seed in the hearts of the community: they are very reliant on getting dona“There’s such a shortage of guardians tions, especially at Christmas time. too because a lot of people don’t know They have a toy quota, but it’s never what they are. We need guardians. filled. It’s something the guardians Becoming a guardian ad litem, you want to do to give that child a toy from can take on as many cases as you a person they trust and they know is want and have time for.” Of the 3,100 acting in their best interests.” In children in Hillsborough in the dependHillsborough county alone, there are ency court system, over 1,300 do not over 3,100 children in the dependency have a guardian ad litem to act with court system, all of whom have had their best interests in mind. He hopes someone close to them let them down some will attend the after party if only and may be living with relatives or with to talk with other guardians. You have foster families. Besides the relationthe opportunity to change a child’s life ship guardians ad litem form with their in this role, not just make their day. To children and the advocacy they proregister for the event, make a donavide on their behalves, there is so tion, and more information, visit much the volunteers want to do to http://guardiantoyrun.org/ and email brighten their lives, and collecting toys the completed form to is one small way they can make a big info@guardiantoyrun.org or fax it to difference. 866-955-8125. You may also contact The Toy Run and Drive will be Bryan Taylor at 400-0448 or check out held Saturday, November 19 beginning the excited chatter on Facebook at at 10 a.m. at Tampa PC Networks, https://www.facebook.com/guardiansto located at 11946 Boyette Rd. in yrun?fref=ts. For more info on becomRiverview. Although the event itself is ing the voice of a child in need and to designed for motorcycles, those withvolunteer as a guardian ad litem, visit out bikes are welcome to make a www.galtampa.org or vfcgal.org.

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Volume 15, Issue 11

The Master Chorale Of Tampa Bay Presents Making Spirits Bright At Tampa Theatre

By Kathy L. Collins

Enjoy a fesas one of the tive evening of country’s finest holiday choral choirs. The music as The Master Chorale Master Chorale of Tampa Bay of Tampa Bay has consistently presents Making delivered some Spirits Bright on of the most proSaturday, foundly moving December 3 at 3 music performances in the p.m. at the hisarea. The group toric Tampa is committed to Theatre’s stage. The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay will bring holiday the advancing The Master spirit to all when they perform Making Spirits Bright art of choral Chorale will be at the historic Tampa Theatre on Saturday, December 3 at 3 p.m. music by perconducted by Joseph Holt, forming great and the performance will also feature The works of the past, commissioning and Master Chorale Ensemble Singers, conperforming new literature and sharing the ducted by Deah McReynolds. The conjob and power of choral music with new cert will feature organ, brass quintet and and existing audiences and singers. percussion. The Master Chorale was founded in You can expect to hear holiday 1979 by Dr. Robert Summer. The Master favorites including God Rest Ye Merry Chorale is an auditioned, highly-select 150 voice volunteer chorus. In addition to Gentlemen; The Chanukah Song; Hark! performing 15 to 20 traditional concerts The Herald Angel; O Holy Night; and We on an annual basis, The Master Chorale Need A Little Christmas. has internationally distributed recordings, Tickets to Making Spirits Bright are $20 (plus service fee) and are available at important commissions from contemporary compositional powerhouses, and the Tampa Theatre Box Office located at performs a variety of outreach and edu711 N. Franklin St. in downtown Tampa cation activities throughout the Tampa and at www.tampatheatre.org. Bay area. Beryl B. Byles, a singer with The The Master Chorale is the Principal Master Chorale said, “Expect to get into the Christmas spirit early this year with Chorus of the Florida Orchestra and is the gorgeous melodies and touching Artist-in-Residence as the College of the lyrics of this concert of The Master Arts School of Music at the University of Chorale of Tampa Bay. You will experiSouth Florida. ence a gift for your soul in the process.” For more information, please visit The Master Chorale has been hailed www.masterchorale.com.

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November 2016

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

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Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

FishHawk Attorney Offers Full Defense

By Kate Quesada

From traffic violaHe most recently assisttions to homicides, ed on a trial where his FishHawk resident and client was accused of Board Certified Criminal Aggravated Trial Attorney Adam Manslaughter of a Child Bantner has represented by Neglect. clients in more than 30 “A four-year-old boy jury trials in the Tampa was killed by his mother area and he works hard and the State accused to make sure that every my client of failing to proone of his clients tect the child,” Bantner receives the representaexplained“ A friend of tion they deserve. mine brought me in to “I approach every assist on the case, and case with the goal of get- FishHawk resident Adam Bantner we sincerely believed ting it dismissed,” said represents clients in all types of that our client was in no criminal cases. Bantner, who added that way responsible for the many of his cases include DUIs and juve- death of the child. We went to trial and nile delinquency. But Bantner didn’t our client was found not guilty of that always dream of being an attorney. “I’m a charge.” sports junkie,” he said. “I grew up with The current president of the dreams of covering professional or colHillsborough County Association of lege sports as a writer.” Criminal Defense Lawyers, Bantner has But after college graduation and a been named a Rising Star by Super stint at the copy desk of The Tampa Lawyers magazine in the area of criminal Tribune, he decided to join his friends in defense. “I won’t ever get out-worked on law school. After getting his degree from a case,” he said. Florida State University, he started work Bantner is also very involved in the with the Public Defender’s Office in Brandon community. In addition to acting Orlando then transitioned to private as assistant coach for his son’s baseball defense work which he has been doing team, he is also on the Board of Directors ever since. of the Greater Brandon Chamber of A member of the Florida Bar since Commerce, is the President of the Alafia 2006, Bantner has defended clients on Republican Club and the Tampa Bay trial for murder and various drug charges Tiger Club and is on the Hillsborough as well as petitions for delinquency, County Republican Party Executive dependency and termination of parental Committee. Located at 1228 E. 7th Ave. rights. He is also a member of the Ste. 200 in Tampa. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 Federal Bar for the Middle District of p.m., but after hours consultations are Florida, the Brandon Bar Association and available by appointment. Call 397-3965 the Hillsborough County Bar Association. or visit www.tampacrimeattorneys.com.

The Florida Orchestra performs Mozart to Wil iams

By Kelly Smith

The Florida Orchestra brings some of the great masterpieces to Tampa Bay in November, along with the fascinating stories behind the music, under the baton of Music Director Michael Francis.

Interludes and Elgar’s Sea Pictures. Then dive into The Work at Hand by Jake Heggie, based on deeply moving poetry by a woman battling cancer. It’s a special work that features mezzosoprano Jamie Barton and cellist Anne Martindale Williams, under the direction of Michael Francis. All Shining stars in three performed the orchesMozart’s Jupiter tral debut of the piece in Symphony May 2015 with the Despite Mozart’s Pittsburgh Symphony financial and other trouOrchestra. Benjamin Beilman, one of the bles, the most amazing fastest rising stars of his generThe orchestra performs thing happens in 1788: ation, will perform Prokofiev’s Songs of the Sea: Britten, In a matter of just six to Violin Concerto No. 1 with the Elgar & Debussy FridayFlorida Orchestra on Fridaynine weeks, Mozart Sunday, November 11-13. Sunday, November 4-6. composes his three Also part of the Tampa Bay best symphonies, Nos. 39, 40 and 41. Times Masterworks series, with free tickEven for Mozart, it’s a ridiculously short ets for kids and teens. timeframe. The orchestra performs his Great American Pops: From Fiedler greatest achievement, No. 41, nicknamed to Williams “Jupiter,” which shows off his true genius. This night of hits honors the great It’s also his final symphony, composed at tradition of American pops, with music age 32. great Arthur Fiedler made famous the This program also features 26-yearincluding composers Leroy Anderson, old violinist Benjamin Beilman, one of the John Philip Sousa, George M. Cohan, fastest rising stars of his generation, perGershwin, and the master of modern film forming Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 1. scoring, John Williams. Concerts are The orchestra performs Mozart’s Friday-Sunday, November 18-20, part of Jupiter Symphony Friday to Sunday, Raymond James Pops series, with the November 4-6, with Michael Francis conguest conductor Bob Bernhardt. ducting. Part of the Tampa Bay Times The Florida Orchestra regularly perMasterworks series, with free Classical forms at the Straz Center in Tampa, Kids tickets for kids and teens 5-18. Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth Dive into Songs of the Sea Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Masterworks Perfect for the Tampa Bay area, feel and Pops tickets are $15, $30 and $45. the ebb and flow of the sea with Buy at floridaorchestra.org or 727-892Debussy’s La Mer, Britten’s Four Sea 3337 and 1-800-662-7286.

November 2016

e To t u l a S l a Music s, Craft & V e t e r a ne & M o r e … Gift Sal Michelle Colesanti, d by m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ michelle

Coin & Currency Show

Brandon Coin Club Inc., A 501 (C) 7 non-profit organization, will hold its next Coin & Currency Show on Saturday, November 5 from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. at the Brandon Elks Lodge #2383, located at 800 Centennial Lodge Dr. in Brandon. For more information, contact Jack Laci at 352-777-6073 or brandoncoinclub@yahoo.com.

War-era Veterans Benefit from a Musical Salute Concert

War-era military veterans will benefit from a community band concert hosted by First Presbyterian Church in Brandon on Thursday, November 10 at 7 p.m. Proceeds will be donated to Honor Flight of West Central Florida, a nonprofit organization that provides war-era veterans with all-expense paid Honor Tours to their memorials in Washington, D.C. Honor Flight has focused on taking WWII and terminally ill veterans on these trips, but plans to expand to those who served in the Korean and Viet Nam wars. A Musical Salute will be presented by the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band, a concert band with more than 60 members. A $10 donation is suggested at the door, but any donation will be accepted. Admission is free for children

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

under 18. After the concert, light refreshments will be served and a silent auction. First Presbyterian Church is located at 121 Carver Ave. in Brandon. For information, email terriemorrison@verizon.net or call the church at 6894597.

Riverview Garden Club November Meeting

Valrico residents Amanda Burchell and her daughters tried their first Geocache exploration and found the Osprey Observer Geocache. Enjoying the thrill of the find, they happily look forward to enjoying more family outings to find more caches.

The Riverview Garden Club will hold its November meeting on Wednesday November 9 at 10 a.m. at the Riverview Civic Center, 11020 Park Dr. The guest speaker is Michael O'Hara Garcia, President of the Florida Olive Council. Parking is free and it is free admission for first time attendees. Bring a covered dish for this Thanksgiving themed meeting. For more information call Harriet at 727-6567.

Appreciation Luncheon Hosted By The Brandon Foundation

The Brandon Foundation hosted a “Sponsor and Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon” on Tuesday, September 20, sponsored by Longhorn Steakhouse Brandon and held at The Bridges. Over 80 guests attended the event and enjoyed a delicious meal, video slideshow of foundation activities through the past years. Executive Director, Liz Brewer, shared “this event was to show our amazing volunteers and sponsors how much we truly appreciate everything they do to help us

achieve our mission at the Brandon Foundation”. The foundation will hold its annual dinner “Evening of Hope & Charity Check Presentation” on Friday, November 4 at The Regent. For more information about the Foundation and this community event, visit www.BrandonFoundation.org or call 689-6889.

First Annual Holiday Craft & Gift Sale

The 1st annual Holiday Craft & Gift Sale for Four Sisters Crafts and Such will take place on Saturday, November 19 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at 1317 Borden Ct. in Valrico. A large selection of unique handmade gift ideas at affordable prices for the holidays will be available such as quilts, aprons, pot holders, casserole carriers, dish cloths, hair accessories, jewelry, handmade greeting cards and more.

Help For Quitting Tobacco

Quitting tobacco isn't easy. Finding help should be. Tobacco Free Florida offers free tools and services to help you get started. Free Community worksite and clinic groups will be offered, with programs covering all forms of

tobacco. Free Nicotine replacement patches, gum and lozenges will be available, while supplies last and if medically appropriate. Locally, classes will be held Monday, November 14 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Oakfield Medical Plaza, 276 S. Moon Ave, Suite 260 in Brandon. Preregistration is required by calling 974-7889. For additional classes, visit www.ahectobacco.com/calendar.

Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular Live

Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular comes to Amalie® Arena on Friday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. This fun-filled family holiday event features the cast of Cirque Musica together with all-time favorite holiday songs performed by a live orchestra. It is a concert and visual experience where audiences journey into a world of high-flying adventure with amazing acrobats, aerialists, and holiday cheer. The show blends the spell-binding grace and daredevil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with the sensory majesty of the greatest holiday music of all time. Tickets are available at the McDonald’s® Ticket Office at Amalie® Arena, Ticketmaster outlets and at Ticketmaster.com. Order tickets by calling 800-745-3000. Ticket prices are $25, $35, $55 and $85. Prices do not include facility fee or service charges. Group discounts available by calling 301-6900. Advanced parking passes are available at Ticketmaster.com or the ticket office. Visit amaliearena.com or call 813-3012500 for more information.

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Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

ealth H , w o h Craft S ard Sale, Fair/Y Fashion Holiday More… & elle Colesanti, Shoilw ich y ed b M com ver. Comp reyobser p s o @ e michell

Holy Innocent’s Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show

Holy Innocent’s Episcopal Church is accepting vendor sign-ups for its ninth annual Fall Whistle Stop Craft Show on Saturday, November 5 from 9 a.m.p.m. The event will be held on the church grounds at 604 N. Valrico Rd. in Valrico. Both inside and outside locations are available. Interested vendors can register for a spot at www.hiepiscopal.org. Any questions please contact the church during normal business hours at 689-3130.

Health Fair And Yard Sale At Rivers Of Life Church Ministries

A Health Fair and Yard Sale will be held at Rivers of Life Church Ministries, 301 N. Lakewood Dr. in Brandon on Saturday, November 19. The yard sale will begin at 8 a.m. and the free Health Fair at 9 a.m. Representatives from TGH will be available to test blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol. A pharmacist will be available to answer your questions.

The Florida Blood Mobile will be attending and giving out t-shirts for blood donations. There will be free hot dogs and snacks. The ROL Silver Steppers (Seniors Line Dancing Team) will give demonstrations at 10 and 11 a.m. Reserve a space in the yard sale by calling the church office 643-3848.

Holiday Fashion Show And Luncheon

The annual Fashion Show and Luncheon "Holiday Sparkle" presented by The Dress Barn with Brandon Christian Women's Connection will take place on Monday, November 14 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Bell Shoals Baptist Church in the Special Events Center, 2102 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon. The cost is $15. First time guests pay $10. Please secure your reservation by Monday, November 7 with Lillie at 7400098. This a nondenominational luncheon with no membership required.

Congregation Beth Shalom Hosts Services And More

Friday evenings at 7:45 p.m. welcome the Sabbath at Congregation Beth Shalom in Brandon. Oneg (nosh and mingle) follows services. All are welcome to join on November 11 for “Shabbot Alive,” an upbeat service filled with song. iEngage: Jewish Values and the

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict A Hartman Institute Lecture & Study Series Tuesday, November 15 from 7-8:30 p.m. - Led by Rabbi Torop, who will address and explore the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the complex meanings of peace in Jewish tradition. This session addresses “Attitudes Toward the Land; perspectives from within Israel.” Tuesday November 15 from 7– 8:30 p.m.

33rd Annual Nut Sale

The ladies of St. Francis Circle at Nativity Catholic Church are taking orders for your holiday baking & gifting. Pecan halves, pecan pieces, chocolate amaretto pecans, dark chocolate pecans, white chocolate pecans are $9.50, pistachios are $9, cashews $9.50, and walnuts $8. All prices are per pound and will be in before Thanksgiving. Call Flo 6548941, Janet 655-5506, or Evelyn 6574309 to place your order by Wed, Nov 2.

Show And Luncheon

Holiday Fashion

Please secure your reservation by Monday, November 7 with Lillie at 7400098. This a nondenominational luncheon with no membership required.

United Methodist Women 46th Annual Pecan Sale

Hand-picked, shelled, and fresh from the orchard pecans are through Tuesday, November 1. A five lb. box of mammoth halves or pieces cost $45, a one lb. bag is $10. Also available are specialty items: chocolate amaretto pecans (22 oz. tin) for $18; praline pecans (20 oz. tin) for $16, and an assortment (20 oz. tin) including praline, chocolate amaretto, and roasted salted pecans. To order, call Mary Baker at 6434493, email bjbrooks5@gmail.com, or visit www.pecansale.com to order and pay by credit card. Checks payable to UMW can be mailed to P. O. Box 546, Lithia, FL 33547. Only pre-paid pecans are "reserved." Others will be sold on a first come-first served basis. Pick up is at New Hope United Methodist Church (formerly First United Methodist Church), 121 N. Knights Ave. in Brandon in the Social Hall. Pickup times are Saturday, November 12, and Monday, November 14, from 8 a.m. 6 p.m. This annual fundraiser benefits local missions such as ECHO, Mary and Martha House, A Kid's Place, and Brandon Life Care, and others. For more information, contact Barbara Brooks at 6897016 or bjbrooks5@gmail.com.

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Campo Family YMCA Celebrates Unveiling Of New Outdoor Courtyard

By Tamas Mondovics

some testimonials presented by members of the Campo Y, located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico, Patel spoke passionately about her relationship with and, subsequent desire to support the association, which she said, led to the idea and design of the courtyard. The final product Longtime YMCA member Bella Patel speaks to a sizable group of local residents, YMCA leadership, and staff ultimately turned the members during the unveiling ceremony of the new 15,000 available space into a sq. ft. courtyard at the Campo Family YMCA. The Bella Y Patel Courtyard was the result of Patel’s generous donation safe, purposeful, activiand continued support and will serve as an outdoor ty-centered outdoor exercise and activity area. facility. “The Y was and Members of the Campo Family continues to be a huge presence in YMCA leadership and board of direcmy family’s life,” Patel said. “I have tors welcomed the community and never forgotten what the Y has done local media last month to celebrate the for me, and I am happy to now be in unveiling of the new Bella Y. Patel the position to give back to them and Courtyard. to support my local YMCA.” “We are celebrating the compleCampo Y board member Rick tion of a much anticipated project that Lewis, gave special thanks to Boy validates our values and commitment Scout Troop 89, which assisted with a to strengthening our youth, families building and installation of some of the and communities,” said Campo Y signage and exercise areas scattered Board of Directors Chair, Cindy Moran. thought the 15,000 sq. ft. yard. Thanks to a generous $45,000 gift “The courtyard will offer a boot to the facility from Bella Patel and her camp exercise area with six dedicated family, the courtyard boasts of several stations for a new way to get an work mature Oak trees that provide a natuefficient, challenging and fun workout ral canopy, while serving to expand as in an outdoor setting while improving well as improve the facility’s outdoor overall health,” Lewis said. programming for children, teens and The outdoor basketball court and families. concrete/Astroturf pad creates a Following a brief introduction and

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Children enjoy one of several exercise stations at the recently opened Bella Y Patel Courtyard at the Campo Family YMCA, in Valrico. The new courtyard was the built after a generous donation of its namesake Bella Patel.

healthy outlet for children to gain new skills, develop a sense of team and connect with positive role models. The outdoor setting offers space for group exercise classes ranging from Yoga to Body Flow. The outdoor grill cooking stations promise to add to the Y’’s variety of curriculum. Officials said YMCA Summer Camp’s educational curriculum will also take place on the new Bella Y. Patel Courtyard, where campers develop a sense of independence as they try new adventures away from home, learn new skills and make new friends.

A portion of the Patel family donation will also go toward the Campo Y’s annual campaign, giving those in need the opportunity to participate in YMCA programs. Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, CEO Tom Looby spoke highly of the Campo Y, its staff and the new courtyard, when he said, “This is one of our leading facilities, which just got better. The courtyard, thanks to generosity of the Patel family, is a wonderful addition to the programs offered here.” For more information about the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA and the Campo Family YMCA, please visit www.tampaymca.org.

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Page 32

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Law Enforcement Workshop, Help Improve County Recycling & More…

First Hillsborough County Community Law Enforcement Workshop In December

The first Hillsborough County Community-Law Enforcement Workshop, originally scheduled for Oct. 17-18, has been rescheduled for Monday and Tuesday, December 5-6 at ClairMel Elementary School, 1025 S. 78th Street in Tampa. The workshop will still be held from 5-8:45 p.m., and the theme is “Community and Law Enforcement working together toward greater intercultural understanding.” The new deadline to preregister for the workshop is Tuesday, November 29. Twelve Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputies and 45 citizen attendees will be preregistered from a pool of persons who pre-register. Call 272-5720 or email WilliamsLA@hillsboroughcounty.org or JenkinsAD@hillsboroughcounty.org to request an invitation to attend the workshop. The Community-Law Enforcement Workshops are sponsored by the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), United Way Suncoast, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the School District of

Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, michelle@ospreyobserver.com

Florida Strawberry Festival Announces 2017 Theme

The Florida Strawberry Festival released today the theme for its 82nd annual event – “We’re Playing Your Song!” “Yes, it highlights our entertainment,” said General Manager Paul Davis. “But most of all, it points to our focus of providing what our visitors like.” A new theme is created for each year’s festival to offer patrons a glimpse of the experience they will have at the 11 day event. It also unifies vendors, FFA chapters, organizations, corporate partners and exhibitors who create parade floats and displays throughout the celebration, said Davis. The festival’s strawberry character featured in each year’s theme artwork is an iconic part of the event’s branding and advertising efforts. In this theme’s artwork, he wears a baseball cap and sunglasses and plays a guitar. “It is our goal for every person who walks through our gate to leave satisfied, knowing we offered them something that they personally enjoy,” said Davis. “We think this theme reflects that well.”

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Hillsborough County. In the next 12 months, Hillsborough County will sponsor a total of eight workshops: five for adults, two for youth, and one leadership retreat for elected officials and community leaders. The workshops, approved in August by the BOCC, are free and open to the public, with limited space available. Dates and locations for the final seven workshops have not yet been determined.

Hillsborough County Invites Residents to Help Improve Recycling Program

Residential recycling customers are invited to help improve Hillsborough County’s recycling program by sharing information about their recycling behaviors and knowledge in a confidential online survey and by participating in focus groups. Survey links, focus group schedules, and registrations are available atHCFLGov.net/RecyclingSurvey. The

Volume 15, Issue 11

survey and focus groups will take place through October and November. Surveys are available in English and Spanish. Seating for focus groups is limited. Information gathered through the survey and focus groups will be used to design behavior-based education and outreach messaging in an effort to reduce recycling contamination. Contamination occurs when non-recyclable items or heavily soiled items are mixed in with clean recyclable items during collection. Contamination in the recycling cart causes problems including: damaging equipment, creating health and safety hazards for workers, reducing the amount of recyclables that can be successfully recovered, and increasing the overall cost of the recycling process. All program recyclables should be placed in the blue cart clean, dry, and un-bagged to ensure proper sorting. A good rule of thumb is “when in doubt, throw it out.” Items tossed in your gray garbage cart are used to make renewable electricity at Hillsborough County’s Resource Recovery Facility. Hillsborough County Solid Waste is partnering with experts from the Florida Center for Community Design + Research at the University of South Florida to gather information about what customers know about the County’s curbside recycling program and how they make household recycling decisions. Visit HCFLGov.net/Recycling for more information about the County’s recycling collection service.

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Page 33

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Orange Home Accessories Celebrates 10th Anniversary In Plaza Bella

GET THE DIRT

By Kathy L. Collins

deaths in the United States. It is also the least funded among major cancers. For more information, please visit www.preludetoacure.com. All who attend the 10th Anniversary event are asked to make a minimum donation of $10. In exchange for the donation, you will receive a $10 reward card which you can use at Orange Home Accessories, an elegant Orange Home home décor store in Valrico is celebrating its 10th Anniversary with a celebration on Friday, Accessories through Christmas. November 18. The event will also serve as a Attendees will enjoy live music by fundraising event for Prelude To A Cure. Ella Chadwell and Jimmy Silva, wine Orange Home Accessories in Valrico and delicious appetizers. There will be celebrates its 10th Anniversary this raffles and door prizes of items donated November. Owner, Debbie Ploor, is excitby some of Ploor’s vendors such as ed to have the community join in the cele- Michael Aram. bration. Ploor has planned a wonderful Ploor said, “I am so grateful to the celebratory event on Friday, November community and all of my customers for 18 from 6 to 9 p.m. Orange Home the support they have shown me over the Accessories is located at 1046 last 10 years. It has been an honor to be Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. a part of the community.” Ploor added, “I The 10th Anniversary celebration will love my store. My customers are just like benefit Prelude To A Cure, a lung cancer my family. It makes me feel good when research and awareness organization they come in to the store. I could not do located at Moffitt Cancer Center in all that I do without their support.” Tampa. Ploor has been involved with Orange Home Accessories offers Prelude To A Cure for several years and eclectic, elegant and whimsical home currently serves on the board of directors. accessories. But the items are not just Ploor encourages everyone to beautiful; they are all functional in design. become familiar with Prelude To A Cure While everything is lovely, they each have which was established by Dr. Lary a purpose and will make your house a Robinson of Moffitt Cancer Center in home. 2012 to raise awareness and funding for For more info Orange Home lung cancer research in Tampa Bay. Lung Accessories, please visit www.orangecancer is the leading cause of cancer homedecor.com or call 681-8686.

WITH FLORIDA YARD EXPERT Lynn Barber, Hillsborough County Extension Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Research Plots Results

What is FloridaFriendly LandscapingTM? It is a quality landscape that is designed, installed and maintained according to the nine Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM (FFL) principles. These principles seek to reduce environmental impacts from landscaping by properly applying water, fertilizer and pesticides, creating wildlife habitats, preventing erosion, recycling yard waste and utilizing other practices based on the University of Florida’s research. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Center for Landscape Conservation & Ecology, conducted a three year research program in Gainesville from July 27, 2013 through July 14, 2016. The purpose of the research was to compare a traditional landscape to a Florida-friendly landscape. The most

significant result was the amount of water used.

Water used and water costs were more than five times higher in the traditional versus Floridafriendly landscape. Labor hours and costs were similar, but slightly less in the Florida-friendly landscape. There was less labor involved in the Florida-friendly landscape in several areas and more in others. Those areas where less labor was involved included: fertilizer and herbicide applications, irrigation maintenance, mowing, edging and leaf blowing. The Florida-friendly landscape required more time spent on mulching, hand weeding, hand watering, pruning and plant replacement. This is because landscape beds versus traditional turfgrass are mulched, pruned, hand watered, etc. However, overall, there was less labor involved in the Florida-friendly landscape than the traditional Florida landscape.

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Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Sports Connection 657-2418 www.ospreyobserver.com

Bloomingdale Bulls Basketball Look To Repeat As District Champs

By Nick Nahas

The Bloomingdale Bulls go from hunter to hunted after having a recordbreaking 2015-2016 season. The Bulls went into last season projected to finish toward the bottom half of the 7A District 9 preseason rankings. They not only exceeded everybody’s expectations, they flat-out dominated their district opponents, going 11-2 in district play, winning eight of those games by at least double digits. They went on to win their first district title since 1996, defeating the Tampa Bay Tech Titans 61-58 in the district championship game. The Bulls not only won 20 games last season, but they did it in style, playing great team defense, pushing the ball up and down the court with speed and precision, sharing the ball as a unit, as well as shooting and making

son. The Bulls will once again rely on 3point shooting and good team defense. Leading scorer Drew Bethony (15.2 PPG) is one of the best 3-point shooters in the nation, shooting 48% (96 of 202) from behind the arc. Bethoney was named All-Western Conference Federal Division Player of the Year last season and was selected to the AllWestern Conference 1st Team as well. Drew and his friend Nick Lewis, who have played together since 6th grade at Burns Middle School, will be huge for the Bulls 2016 success. Lewis will take over the point guard duties. “If we get

Last season the Bloomingdale Bulls won their first district championship since 1996.

Lewis. “We get a lot of assists and we have the best shooter in the county (Drew Bethoney). We can kick it out to him anytime we want.” Bloomingdale will have a great opportunity to repeat as district champs this upcoming season, led by last year’s All-Western Drew Bethoney driving to the basket against East Bay. Conference Federal Division Coach of the Year, Joe Willis, a team record amount of 3-pointers heading into his 8th season with the (469 shot) while hitting 192 of them Bulls. The Bulls have three returning (41%). They set the school record for starters from last season. Seniors Drew the best start in school history (11-0), Bethony (15.2 PPG), Nick Lewis (12.1 and tied the school record for longest PPG) and Trent Wienert (10 PPG) have winning streak (11 games). started virtually every game together Bloomingdale is becoming one of the since they were all sophomores. All elite programs in Hillsborough County. three players averaged double figures They have reach the 20-win plateau in in the points per game category last 2 of the last three seasons. “We can share the ball with the best in the coun- season. “They really make my game a lot better,” said Lewis. “Any time I can ty honestly,” said Bulls Guard Nick

kick it out to Drew, it’s like an automatic assist. I can drive and kick it down low to Trent and he finishes nearly every time. We all have great relationships on the court and we can all talk to each other and give each other constructive criticism.” The biggest thing the Bulls will have to improve on this season is their team rebounding. The team’s leading rebounder, center Nick Menia (7.6 RPG) graduated, leaving a void on a Nick Lewis picking up a block against East Bay. team that only averaged about 27 rebound per game. They will 20+ wins this season, I think Nick and I also have to replace their point guard will be the record holders for most wins Derrick Thompson Jr., who was a great in a career at Bloomingdale,” said defender and key contributor, averaging Bethoney.” “That would be awesome.” 11 points, 6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds “We are the hunted now. I want to per game. The Bulls also had a lack of see how we handle that added presdepth on the bench last season that sure of being everybody’s top oppothey will have to resolve. The five nent,” said Willis. “It’s a different kind of starters for Bloomingdale played the pressure and I don’t think any of us majority of the minutes, which wore have ever felt that here at them down toward the end of the seaBloomingdale before.”

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Sports

Connection Bloomingdale Swimmer Finds Success In The Pool And Classroom Story by Nick Nahas

Manera swimming the butterfly stroke.

Noah Manera has had a love for the sport of swimming since he was just seven years old. “I love racing,” said Manera. “I really like just getting up on the blocks and having fun, going all out and competing against other swimmers.” Manera, now 17 and a senior in high school, has had a decorated career in swimming so far. He was named to the USA Swimming Scholastic All American Team two years in a row (2014-2016 seasons,) while qualifying for the Speedo Winter Junior Nationals in the 200 Butterfly, which will be held in Columbus, Ohio in December. At Bloomingdale High School he was named to the 2015 Tribune AllHillsborough County Swim Team — First Team for the 100 Butterfly (9th place finish at 4A State Meet,) the 2015 Tampa Bay Time's All-Tampa Bay Boys

Team — Second Team for 100 Butterfly (9th place finish at 4A State Meet,) and in 2015 he broke the Bloomingdale record in the 200 Individual Medley relay along with his fellow teammates Nick Cannon, Noel Lopez and Kaden Miller. “I can depend on him,” said Eva

Applebee, head coach of the Bloomingdale High School Swim Team. “Noah is one of those quiet warriors that does Noah Manera (in blue) at the Bloomingdale High School everything that you need swim banquet. him to do and he gives on a good relay team that can compete 200 percent. He never complains, he well. as never gives you a hard time when you Manera has a bright future, not only ask his opinion, he thinks and considers in the pool, but in the classroom as well. before he speaks and gives good input. He said that he is currently speaking He’s a coach’s dream.” Manera swims several colleges about scholarships with year-round, and according to Applebee, and a chance to swim at the next level. his best stroke is the butterfly. The 200 He wants to major in aerospace engiButterfly is his best event, the same as neering. One day, we may even see his role model Michael Phelps. That is him in the Olympics. “If I get on a colthe event that qualified him for the USA lege team and I keep training hard, one Swimming Scholastic All American I would like to see myself at the day Team. His goal for the high school seaOlympic trials,” he said. “We’ll see how son is to make it back to states again. that goes, that would be a long-term He would like to make it back into the goal of mine to get an Olympic qualificafinals for two events, the 100 Butterfly tion.” and the 200 Freestyle, and hopefully be

Page 36

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 15, Issue 11

History And Heritage Crafts On Display At The 39th Annual Pioneer Day

By Kathy L. Collins

You will not want to miss the 39th Annual Pioneer Day on Saturday, November 12.

If you yearn for the simpler times, then transport yourself back in time and head to Plant City for the 39th Annual Pioneer Day to be held on Saturday, November 12 beginning at 10 a.m. The grounds of the Plant City High School Community Center located at 605 N. Collins St. in Plant City will be transformed as Southern Belles, old time craftsmen and more descend on the historic property. The day long festival is free and open to the public. Old time crafts and food are available for cash. While at Pioneer Day, check out the many heritage crafts, clogging, dancing and singing. You can feast on good old fashioned barbeque chicken and ribs, enjoy a haride, face painting and bouncey houses. You will not want to miss the opportunity to visit the train museum and see the Garden Club show. Also, during Pioneer Day, make sure you stop by the Classroom Gallery and visit with artists from the East Hillsborough Art Guild who will be demonstrating and

showing off their new exhibit. The fun does not end with the festival, you can come back and see the Florida Opry’s Got Talent that evening at the Plant City High School Community Center. “Pioneer Day started as a political rally on the banks of the Alafia River many years ago, and then once it moved to Plant City, it later became the ‘Old Timer’s Picnic.’ Subsequently, the East Hillsborough Historical Society picked it up and renamed it Pioneer Day. Within the last 10 years, we have referred to it as ‘Pioneer Heritage Day,’” explained Shelby Bender, Executive Director of the Plant City High School Community Center and President of the East Hillsborough Historical Society. Bender added, “Pioneer Day is a great way to bring the people of the community together as they celebrate their history and heritage.” Vendors of heritage crafts such as quilting, crocheting, wood work and more who demonstrate their craft, can set up a booth for no charge. Non-heritage vendors are invited to apply and are accepted based on space availability for a fee of just $35. For more information, please call 757-9226.

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Couples Welcome To Enjoy A Night Out At H2O Clean Comedy Show

Staff Report

Covered by Christ Apparel & Family Time Entertainment will be hosting The Humor 2 Outreach Comedy Tour on Friday, November 18 from 6-9:30 p.m. at The Regent in Riverview to raise funds for The Good Samaritan Mission. Show starts at 7:30. Join us for an evening of laughs with great, clean humor by three funny and unique stand-up comedians. The night will be safe and fun for the entire family! Good Samaritan Mission believes in a hand up, not a hand out. It is helping families break the cycle of poverty and dependence through education and spreading God’s love.Last year, the Mission hosted more than 100 classes, from health to English as a Second Language, benefiting more than 5,000 people. “Humor to Outreach is unlike any other comedy show,” describes organizer Mike Self. It is a full stage production with sound, lighting and some of the funniest nationally touring stand-up

Page 37

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

comedians in the country. H2O has been featured on ABC action news, the Tampa Tribune and several other publications. Its comedians have been seen on CTN, The Grand Ole Opry, Last Comic Standing, ABC, Nickelodeon, comedy clubs and resorts throughout the southeast. The humor is fast paced, uplifting and enjoyable for the whole family. The comedians also includes a message of hope. The show is 100% Church Clean! 100% Comedy Club Funny! Doors Open at 6 p.m. and show begins at 7:30 p.m. For more information and tickets, call 690-2201 or 677-9763 or email Mike580358@msn.com. Tickets are $25 per person or $45 per couple. Purchase a table of 8 for $250 or select a premium table with premium seating near the front of the stage for $275 (must purchased in advance).

New Bridges Dental Continues Dr. Rahal Success In Bloomingdale

By Kate Quesada

When Dr. Laura University of Florida College Coyle Bridges opened of Dentistry. She served as the doors of her dental class president for three office on Lithia years and was awarded the Pinecrest Rd. in Delta Dental Senior September, she was Leadership Award. In the achieving a life-long years since receiving her dream. degree, she has worked in “I have lived in the both corporate dentistry and Brandon area since private practice environments 1987,” said Coyle and she recently worked in a Bridges, who graduatpractice with four dentist and ed from Bloomingdale almost 30 High School. “I have employworked very hard to ees. be able to purchase One and run my own pracof the Valrico resident and Bloomingdale High School tice here.” ways graduate Dr. Laura Coyle Bridges recently opened When Coyle Coyle a dental office on Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. Bridges heard that Dr. Bridges Rahal, who had owned and operated his believes her new office is different from dental office in the same location for 27 other dentists in the area is the way it years, was retiring, she jumped at the uses technology to ease patient discomchance to open her own practice in the fort and reduce anxiety. area where she and her husband Brad “One aspect of our practice that is raise their five children. relevant to almost everyone is our use of “We are so excited to offer dental The Wand,” said Coyle Bridges, referring care to the community we love,” said to a product from Milestone Scientific that Coyle Bridges. “We have only been open uses a needle the size of a hair to proa few weeks, but are already doing what vide local anesthesia for patients. “With we can to be a great part of the commuThe Wand we can numb only one tooth nity by sponsoring local events like the at a time which allows the patient to suffer Buckhorn Color Run and fundraisers at much less discomfort and even allows us Bell Shoals Baptist where our children go to work on both sides of the mouth in to school.” succession meaning fewer visits. It also Coyle Bridges received an underlets the patient leave without a numb graduate degree from Florida State face.” Bridges Dental is located at 3646 University, a degree in Biomedical Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and can be reached Science from the University of South at 654-3399. For more information, visit Florida and graduated from The www.bridgesdental.com.

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Page 38

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Photos and story by Tamas Mondovics

Newsome High Hosts Local Officials For Meet & Greet & Names Sought For Elementary ‘C’ In South County

Florida State Rep. Jake Raburn and County Commission Stacy White, Hillsborough County School Board member Melissa Snively, and Newsome High School Principal Carla Bruning speak to a group of local PTA representatives during a recent meet and greet event. Newsome High School is located at 16550 Fishhawk Blvd. in Lithia, Florida.

District Seeks Names for Elementary “C”

Hillsborough County Public Schools officials began seeking assistance from members of the community of nominations for the naming of Elementary “C”, scheduled to open next year, in the Triple Creek area in south Riverview. School officials said that schools are traditionally named for individuals who have specifically rendered outstanding service to public education, such as U.S. presidents, school board members, educators, and outstanding citizens. Schools may also be named for geographic locations and for groups and clubs. When naming a new school or other existing facility, input shall be solicited from neighboring schools and the community at large, according to the policy. The School Board is tentatively scheduled to approve the name for Elementary “C” on November 1. For more information please, visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

Newsome Hosts Local Officials during PTA Meet and Greet

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FishHawk Creek Elementary School teachers and students participate in the annual Walk to School Day last month. The event promotes and raises awareness of safe walking and biking routes to school.

County Commission Stacy White joined local PTA members for an informal meet and greet event last month at the Newsome High school media center. Raburn is a Republican member of the Florida House of Representatives, representing the 57th District, which includes eastern Hillsborough County, since 2012. White was elected to the County Commission in 2014. In 2015, he was elected by the Board to serve in the leadership position of Chaplain. FishHawk Creek Elementary School PTA presidents Erin Cowan said that the event successfully brought together representatives from nine area schools including Bevis, Boyette Springs, Stowers, FishHawk Creek, Lithia Springs and Pinecrest Elementary along with Barrington, Randall Middle and Newsome, for a chance to hear their local government officials take on topics relating to school issues. “This setting is unique as it gives an opportunity to ask questions and hear Rep. Raburn's legislative agenda for the year as well as to discuss road and traffic issues with Commissioner White,” Cowan said. Raburn, 31 took the first few min-

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utes to acknowledge a number of upcoming changes in Tallahassee post November 8, and emphasized the need to balance priorities with education on the top of the chart. “I am proud that we now have the highest level of education funding per student,” Raburn said adding that he wants to have a hand in doing whatever it takes to support teachers. “Better support for our teachers means better education for our children,” he said. Taking his turn to speak to the small group, White said that it was fitting for him to be in attendance and to have a chance to say a few words to the members of the local PTAs. ”I am all about supporting the kids and to have a hand on helping them enjoy a wide a high level of education,” White said. Following the opening comments and to round out the meet and greet, Raburn and White took turns to answer some additional questions and enjoy some refreshments provided.

FishHawk Creek Participates in Walk to School Day

On Wednesday, October 5, students and staff from a number of Hillsborough

County Public Schools participated in the annual Walk to School Day. Walk to School Day is an international event involving communities from more than 40 countries walking and biking to school on the same day. It began in 1997 as a way to promote safe routes to school. FishHawk Creek Elementary also took part in the special day. FishHawk Creek Elementary School Counselor, Carmela Maria Pizzichetti emphasized that Walk to School Day promotes walking and bicycling for several reasons including: physical activity, teaching safe pedestrian and bicycling skills to children. “The event raises awareness of how walkable and bikeable a community is and where improvements can be made, concern for environment, reducing traffic congestion, pollution and speed near schools and sharing time with community leaders, parents and children,” Pizzichetti said. Other schools participating in Walk to School events also included, Westchase Elementary, Mabry Elementary, Sulphur Springs K-8, Kimbell Elementary, Mort Elementary, Summerfield Crossings Elementary, and Chiles Elementary.

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November 2016

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Families & Kids Welcome To Come Out And Enjoy Brandon’s Original Seafood Festival

By Kathy L. Collins

our local charities and support their efforts to improve our community," said Ann Spire, president elect and chairperson of the Seafood Festival. All proceeds from the event benefit local and international charities including the Outreach Clinic, ECHO, Everyday Blessings and Rotary's Camp Florida. According to Natalia Diaz, "We go through a charity nomination process every year. Charities are nominated by members, and then each charity is invited to make a presentation to the club. The charities are then voted on by the club members.” 23rd Annual Brandon Seafood Festival on The Rotary Club of Brandon Saturday, November 5 and enjoy all you can eat southern fried fish, shrimp and all the fixins’. ’86 has been in existence for nearly 30 years. This diverse group The Rotary Club of Brandon ’86 will focuses on raising funds for local and hold its 23rd Annual Brandon Seafood international charities and participates in Festival on Saturday, November 5 from service projects that benefit the communi12 Noon to 4 p.m. at Rotary's Camp Florida located at 1915 Camp Florida Rd. ty. One such example is the Rotary All Persons Rotary Park located at 818 S. In Brandon. The cost to attend is $20 per Parsons Ave. in Brandon. adult in advance or $25 per adult at the Sponsorships as low as $100 are door and $10 per child ages 12-17 years old and $1 or a donation of canned goods available. Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor or a vendor (arts, crafts and for children 12 and under. This gets you any product that is geared toward famiall you can eat and drink. lies), please contact Spire at The Brandon Seafood Festival feaaspire@cmitbrandon.com. tures an all you can eat southern fried The Rotary Club of Brandon ’86 fish, shrimp, hush puppies, coleslaw, meets every Friday at 7 a.m. at The hamburgers and hot dogs. In addition to the fabulous buffet, you can enjoy pie eat- Grace Place located at 732 W. Lumsden Rd. In Brandon. If you are interested in ing contest, live music from Otis Redding learning more about the club, please conand The Knights, face painting, bounce tact Diaz at 442-0875. To obtain advance houses and more. "The Brandon Seafood Festival is our tickets to the Seafood Festival, please visit www.Brandon86Rotary.com. annual fundraiser to help raise money for

Page 39

Page 40

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 15, Issue 11

Nativity Annual Novemberfest Event Features Rides, Food And Entertainment Fun For The Whole Family By Michelle Colesanti With carnival favorites like the Drop Zone, Moonraker, and Ferris wheel, Nativity Catholic Church’s Novemberfest promises to once again be a huge crowd pleaser. “Novemberfest has been a part of the Brandon community for 47 years, and we are so thankful for the support the community has shown Nativity,” said Cindy Ehringer, Committee Chair. Novemberfest will take place from Wednesday, November 16 to Sunday, November 20. Enjoy five days of family fun full of carnival rides, including several for the younger crowd, food booths, and music. Admission and parking are free. The food tent has something for everyone. Enjoy your choice of BBQ, Polish Sausage, Indian Cuisine, Mexican, Latin flavors, potato ribbons, wings, desserts, special coffee, gourmet pizza, freshly squeezed lemonade, funnel cakes, cotton candy, hamburgers, hotdogs and fries, a spectacular steak sandwich and Coca-Cola products. This year’s special musical entertainment includes Soul Circus Cowboys who will perform on Friday

This year’s raffle contains many exciting prizes. The Grand Prize is $5000 and the winner will be announced on Sunday afternoon. Novemberfest is Nativity’s largest parish fundraiser and proceeds benefit the school. The event is run solely by volunteers, who will be on hand to make this year’s festival a success. Nativity Catholic Church is located at 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon. For more information, visit www.nativitycatholicchurch.org/novem berfest.

Principal Robert Yevich stands with students sporting this year’s Novemberfest T-shirt.

at 8 p.m. Band member Billy McKnight is a Nativity alumnus. Southern Train will also perform this year on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. The Riverview High School Choir will perform on Sunday at 2:15 p.m. Several other local dance studios and local talent will also perform. Rob Martin, Director of Finance said, “It’s a great opportunity for the entire family to come out and enjoy the weekend before the start of the busy holiday season.” Nativity stu-

dents and parents will be selling discounted armband vouchers and food tickets. Ride vouchers good for unlimited all day rides are available now through Friday, November 11 at a cost of $17 at the church office, 705 E. Brandon Blvd. Advanced food vouchers are also available for $9. When you purchase a ride voucher at Novemberfest, the cost is $23 and $10 for a food voucher. Tickets can also be purchased online at novemberfest16.eventbrite.com (includes a service fee).

Novemberfest Dates & Times: Wednesday, November 16, 4–10 p.m. Thursday, November 17, 4–10 p.m. Friday, November 18, 4 p.m.– 2 Midnight Saturday, November 19, 11 a.m. – 12 Midnight Sunday, November 20, 12 Noon – 8 p.m.

November 2016

Page 41

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

By NITISH S. RELE nitishrele@gmail.com

LEXUS GS350 A Splendid Blend Of Performance, Elegance If there is a dream luxury sedan, this is it. Of course, you can acquire a similar Audi, Mercedes or BMW, but for far more money than the Lexus GS350. For 2016, the 3.5-liter V-6 power train has been retained to crank out 305 horsepower (increase of 6 from its predecessor) @ 6400 rpm and 280 (up by 3) pounds-feet of torque @ 4800 rpm. Available as a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the 3,726-pound midsize car can scoot 0 to 60 in a mere 5.7 seconds with a top speed of 143 mph. Power reaches the wheels via a seamless 8speed auto transmission, which also can be shifted via steering-wheel paddles. Soaking up hurdles with skill, surefootedness and poise is a double wishbone front and multilink rear suspension. Handling and steering feel is solid, thanks to a variable-speed sensing power system. And depending on road conditions (and sometimes the mood!), you can take off in eco, sport, normal or sport+ modes. Ensconced on the unitized steel body are arrowhead-shaped HID headlights surrounded by the Lexus spindle grille, and LED rear combination lamps. Cabin ergonomics are of the highest quality with well-bolstered 10-way adjustable power heated/cooled front seats. The analog instrument cluster of speedometer and tachometer with a cen-

tered drive information center is logically laid out. Conveying a rich ambiance is Gray Sapele wood on the doors and steering wheel with aluminum trim. Creature comforts include power tilt/slide moon roof, dual-zone auto climate control, power tilt/telescopic steering column, keyless access and start, and LED ambient lights. And you can toggle navigation, climate, audio and phone controls for the massive 12.3-inch touch screen with a mouse-like, easy-to-use controller on the console. Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, front knee airbags, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management with stability and traction control, rearview camera, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights. Peppy, fun to rev and lunging forward with fervor at each turn, the GS350 delivers a splendid blend of performance and flair. To fulfill your dream, all you need now is $50,000 and change. Plenty of it. GS350 (RWD) Tires: 235/45R18 Wheelbase: 112.2 inches Length: 192.1 inches Fuel capacity: 17.4 gallons City: 20 mpg Highway: 29 mpg Web site: www.lexus.com

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Page 42

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Newsome Chorus Madrigal Holiday Dinner, Mind Boost Workshop & More...

ing LEGO kits, parts and compatible accessories. Executive Director and LEGO fan, Bryan Bonahoom, said, “There is something amazing to see and fun Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, to do for kids and michelle@ospreyobserver.com adults. The imagination and engineering of these displays is always inspiring.” Newsome Class of 2006 10 Year Brickworld displays include trains, Reunion robots, cityscapes, On Saturday, space stations, and November 26 at 7 p.m. much more. the Newsome Class of Brickworld show2006 will hold its 10 cases many local year reunion at Grille LEGO artists and engiOne Sixteen, located t neers from Florida 612 N Dale Mabry in through a partnership Tampa. with the Greater Enjoy an evening Florida LEGO of dinner, drinks, and Train Club and dancing. Dress code is the Orange cocktail attire. School County LEGO colors are welcome. User Group. The UF/FSU game Jessie is a sweet and loving girl, There are also will be on the big approximately 3 years old. She has displays coming a cute, permanent head tilt, probably screen. from a prior inner ear infection, but it from as far away Please RSVP with doesn't slow her down. She needs a as Toronto, your maiden name wonderful ‘fur’ever home. Call 657Canada and 7078 or email catcallfl@gmail.com included. Minneapolis, for more info. MN, including a Brickworld 500,000 piece, 26 ft. long Showcasing 26 Ft. Long Lego model of the battleship USS Battleship Missouri. Hours are 10 a.m.–6 Brickworld® is bringing the premiere North American LEGO® display p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $12. and exposition to the Florida State Fairgrounds on Saturday and Sunday, Ages 3 and under are free. Cost is $9 November 19 and 20 to fill 40,000 sq. for active duty and reserve personnel ft. with displays made of LEGO bricks, (military ID required). Tickets are available at the door (cash or credit) interactive activities and vendors sell-

or via http://brickworld.com.

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Scout Troop Seeks Donations For Wreath Around America Day

Lord Bogue and his Court cordially invite all residents of Lithia, Brandon and the surrounding kingdom to the Boy Scout Troop annual Newsome High 665 in Brandon is School Holiday securing donations to Madrigals Dinner purchase and place Theatre. This year’s wreaths at Bay Pines Renaissance-themed National Cemetery. Boy Scout Troop 665 in Brandon is Wreaths are $15. The securing donations to purchase and celebration takes place place wreaths at Bay Pines National on Thursday, December troop will be placing Cemetery. Wreaths are $15. 1 and Friday, December them at Bay Pines 2 at 6:30 p.m. at the historic First gravesites on National Wreaths United Methodist Church, 121 Knights across America Day – Saturday Ave. in Brandon. The cost is $25 per December 17. To give online on person. behalf of Troop 665: Come be joyously entertained by http://give.wreathsacrossamerica.org/ the King and Queen, their Royal Court goto/FL0197P-BSA To pay by check, and the Newsome High School Chamber Choir with festive song, dance, a lavish feast, and pageantry befitting our royal guests. A most wondrous banquet shall be served to satisfy the palates of our most discerning guests. This is a spectacular holiday event not to be missed. Tickets are sold in advance only, and order forms will be available at NewsomeChorus.net, and facebook.com/NewsomeChorus. The Newsome High School Brickworld Showcasing 26 Ft. Long Lego Battleshp. Chorus presents its annual Winter Concert, under the direction of make your check or money order Bogue, on Thursday, December Jeffry payable to “Wreaths across America”, 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Newsome High mark “Group FL0197P & Location School Auditorium, 16550 Fishhawk FLBPNB” on the check and mail to: Blvd., in Lithia. This concert is free and Wreaths across America, PO Box open to the public. 249, Columbia Falls, ME 04623.

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November 2016

Page 43

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Hillsborough County $5B 2017 Budget Includes Funding For New Fire Rescue Ambulance Unit

By Tamas Mondovics

Construction of Hillsborough County’s new Public Safety Operations Complex, (PSOC) in Brandon is now nearing completion. The facility will replace the current Emergency Operations Center. (Pictured; The far right actually is not part of the PSOC – it’s an environmental lab for the Public Utilities Department.)

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) adopted the final $4.9 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2017 (FY17) at its final budget public hearing in September. The new budget means that Lithia and surrounding area residents can finally put their worry of losing a Fire Rescue vehicle and ambulance crew (Rescue 2) currently placed at Fire Station No. 2, to rest. Earlier this summer, County officials considered the temporary relocation of (Rescue 2) to Fire Station No. 16 in Riverview, which at the time did not have the service. In a recent statement to the Osprey Observer, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue said that a new rescue unit for the FishHawk/Brandon/Riverview area was funded by the BOCC vote for the FY17 budget year. The newly staffed unit went into service in October at the Riverview Fire Station No.16. “We fought hard to keep Rescue 2 in Lithia and for a new unit to serve the Riverview community,” Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy White said, adding, “ I am glad to have a part in these vital issues affecting my District.” According to County officials the adopted budget for FY17, which began on October 1 and, represents a $100 million increase over last year represents a balanced, equitable plan to provide Hillsborough County residents with vital services. In a recent press release County officials said that the FY16 capital budget continues a more normalized capital spending plan. The budget was balanced while, important needs and priorities were met without increasing the countywide millage rates.

Aside from funds to support its Fire Rescue, the sizable increase over the current (2016) budget means new funding for transportation, public safety, parks, and libraries for Hillsborough County. It is safe to say that with the close calls from Hurricanes Hermine and Matthew supporting the County’s public safety departments and operations clearly remains on the top of the chart. Such services include the County’s new Public Safety Operations Complex, (PSOC). Officials said, that work continues to progress at the new PSOC which will affectively replace the current Emergency Operations Center, (EOC). The Logistics section of Fire Rescue has already moved into the new PSOC and it is anticipated that the remaining elements of HCFR management, including Emergency Management, will move in by the end of the year, County officials said. Key FY17 budget areas include: •$35 million for roadway, bridge, right-of-way, and sidewalk maintenance •$7.1 million for expanded services in the County’s Indigent Health Care Program •$5.7 million for Phase II of Carrollwood Village Community Park and Lucy Dell Community Pond improvements •$5.2 million for new C. Blythe Andrews and Riverview libraries •$1.3 million for a Fire Rescue roving unit pilot program •$350,000 for a downtown Tampa to St. Petersburg ferry pilot program A comprehensive overview of the FY2017 budget with accompanying documents can be found at HCFLGov.net/Budget.

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BOCC Approves $600M For Roads, Bridges, Sidewalks And Intersections

By Tamas Mondovics

which he himself strongly supported. “The original plan, did not have enough votes on the Commission, so I supported the plan that passed with the understanding that something is Hillsborough County Commissioner voted to dedicate $600 million to better than transportation and road improvement projects over the next 10 years. nothing when The proposal which focuses on repairing roads, bridges, sidewalks and it comes to intersections was unanimously approved during the BOCC meeting last month opening a way to create a list of projects. our roads,” White said, During a regularly scheduled meetadded that he was disappointed but ing last month, Hillsborough County since the more robust plan did not have Commissioners voted on one of the the votes, due to concerns raised over most sensitive and talked about topics, its potential to impact on the county’s resulting in the dedication of $600 milrating, even though he was not bond lion to transportation over the next 10 sure that the bond ratings would have years. been impacted. actually The proposal focusing on fixing White promised that with the policy roads, bridges, sidewalks and intersecnow passed, the County Commission tions—a sore subject for years—was will get to work on creating a project list brought to the table by Commissioner Al to expend the funds of which includes Higginbotham and passed unanimously. projects within his own district. In 2010 the discussion resulted in a “We have tremendous road resurfailed referendum followed by a pair of facing needs throughout my district and unsuccessful attempts earlier this year, this will be a top priority for me as we when the BOCC rejected a half-cent create a project list,” White said. surcharge in the sales tax, which reportis a good time to talk about “This edly would have raised $3.5 billion over the widening of Lithia-Pinecrest Road,” the next 30 years. he said. “In my mind, this would have a According to County officials the far reaching effect and would benefit BOCC will now appropriate $35 million communities over a broad area that more of the county budget toward transincludes FishHawk, Valrico, and portation next year and increase that Brandon.” White emphasized his desire amount by $5 million each year for a to be a strong voice with regards to the decade. impact of land use decisions on our The plan means no tax increase. transportation infrastructure. Maintenance and safety spending must “When it comes to rezoning and be allocated first. To alter the policy, a things like that, we simply cannot continsuper majority vote (five commissioners) ue to commit the same sins of the past,” is required and it includes provisions in he said. “Smart growth decisions will be the event of an economic downturn. critical if we are to avoid the same cripWhile earlier proposals involved pling effects on our roads.” costly consultants and public hearings, Responding to the new policy, in his Higginbotham’s proposal reached the recent newsletter, Hillsborough County BOCC just weeks prior to the unaniCommissioner Kevin Beckner said, mous decision, an action that renewed “Commissioners can still utilize a gas some residents’ hope in the County’s tax or try again to pass a sales tax to ability to get things done. fund these improvements. According to Commissioner Stacy As for the current status, Beckner White, (District 4), the now enacted polisaid, “It may not be enough to solve our cy, was a counterproposal to a proproblems, but at least we’ve moved off posed policy that would have dedicated the mark.” For more info on projects just over $800 million to transportation visit www.HCFLGov.net. infrastructure over a 10 year period,

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Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

one of my favorite memories. It brought the troop a lot closer through the combined struggle and I got to test my skills at roadside tire changing.” Mayne plans to pursue a career in the United States Air Force, while Eppich plans to head to the University of Central Florida (From left) Cameron Eppich, Casey Dixon and Justin Mayne and Dixon plans recently earned Eagle Scout status and were recognized in August to head to at a triple ceremony at Holy Innocents Episcopal Church in Valrico. Florida cult challenges. Polytechnic. All the Eagle scouts According to Dixon, his most plan to “pay it forward” to scouting memorable scouting moment was a by coming back to the Troop and tire blowout. "While for most a becoming leaders to the next generblowout wouldn't be exciting the ation of scouts. time our van blew out two tires on For more information, Email the way back from summer camp is bsatroop109valrico@gmail.com.

Three Valrico Eagle Scouts Recently Recognized At Court of Honor Three local boys from Troop 109 recently earned the right to call themselves Eagle Scout. At a triple ceremony in August at Holy Innocents Episcopal Church in Valrico, Justin Mayne, Cameron Eppich and Casey Dixon were recognized as earning the highest rank in Boy Scouting. In order to attain the rank of Eagle Scout, a boy must complete an individual service project which benefits the community. Mayne, Eppich and Dixon collectively spent 200 hours (along with the volunteer help from younger scouts) to complete three projects: At Masonic Youth Camp, Mayne organized a project to build a floating dock to be used by all visitors. This dock included a ladder and a bench and will be used by Camp Pioneer and the Boy and Girl Scouts coming to Masonic to work on vari-

Staff Report

ous water skills like swimming, canoeing and kayaking. At the same camp, Dixon designed, fundraised and led the building and installation of 11 firewood shelters to supplement the Masonic Park and youth camp's designated camping areas. The creation of these shelters will be used by various camping groups to preserve and keep firewood dry. Eppich led and organized a project to benefit his church community. He dismantled an old fence around a well at the church, and built a new fence around it that will withstand the elements and time. These young men have enjoyed week-long out-of-state campouts, national jamboree events, the camaraderie of working together as a unit to volunteer at community events, share their knowledge with younger scouts and persevering through diffi-

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November 2016

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

The Florida Opry Offers Upcoming Holiday And Bluegrass Shows

By Kathy L. Collins

The Florida hold its Annual Opry, established Holiday Show on in 1996, has Saturday, opened its 2016December 10. This 17 season. Come show is a fabulous out and enjoy mix of Christmas great family songs and entertainment. Bluegrass music. The Florida Opry The January features a variety show will be held of live country, on Saturday, foot stomping January 14, 2017. bluegrass, gospel This show has not and more. The yet been Florida Opry perannounced. forms at the hisIn February, The Florida Opry’s 2016-17 season has begun. you will not want toric 1914 Plant If you want a fun, family friendly evening of City High School, great entertainment, then head over to the Plant to miss the a National City High School in downtown Plant City for a Annual Patsy fun night of great music. Register of Cline Tribute Historic Places Show featuring site. Barbara Van Eycken. This special The auditorium in which the Florida Valentine’s Day event will begin at 7 Opry performs is a great venue for music p.m. Tickets for the Patsy Cline Tribute and a must see. Tickets are just $12 for Show are $15 for adults and $10 for adults and $5 for students. You can get a students in advance. Tickets at the door ticket to the entire season for just $60. are $18. Last year’s performance sold Shows are performed from 6 to 9 p.m. out quickly, so get your tickets in On Saturday, November 12, come advance. out to the 39th Annual Pioneer Day and There is no show in March due to stay on to see the Florida Opry’s Got the Annual Florida Strawberry Festival. Talent event. Rising artists can perform Come back on Saturday, April 8, 2017 two songs. According to Shelby Bender, for the final show of the season. This President of the East Hillsborough show has not yet been announced. Historical Society, “Judges will score each The historic Plant City High School performer. There are cash prize payouts is located at 605 N. Collins St. in downfor winners in a variety of categories.” The town Plant City. The Florida Opry is age categories are 8 to 13; 14 to 18; and presented by the East Hillsborough 18 and above. Historical Society. Visit www.thefloridaoIn December, the Florida Opry will pry.com or info@thefloridaopry.com.

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Page 46

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Artwork Of Area Artists On Display At The 2016 Fine Arts Competition At The Hillsborough County Fair Each fall, resisubject of the painting looks like it is moving. dents of Hillsborough This is impressive techCounty come together nique for someone in the and have fun at the elementary school.” Annual Hillsborough Bryant added, County Fair. The fair is “There were several very a great opportunity for impressive pieces subresidents of all ages of mitted in the Youth Hillsborough County to Division this year. This show off their fine artwas the hardest division work during the two to judge.” weekends the fair is Debra Bryant (L) the judge for the Mary Jane Wagner, open. The show fea2016 Hillsborough County Fine Arts Competition along with Mary Jane the Chair of the Fine Arts tures multiple categories for professional, Wagner ( R), the Chair of the event. Competition said, “This is the first year in our new venue at the amateur and youth including oil, acrylic, fairgrounds. We have more space and it watercolor, mixed media and more. is nice and bright.” This year, the Fine Arts Competition There were 94 entries this year. In was judged by Debra Brant, a local resithe Youth Division, first place was given to dent of Plant City and local artist. Debra Bryant. This year the Best of Show for the the following: Elementary- Aubrey Cook of Wimauma; Middle- Madison Jewell of Adult Division went to Richard Wagner of Valrico; and Jenna Seymanky of Plant City. Brandon. In the Amateur Division, first Bryant said of Wagner’s work, “What place went to Christine Kelley of Plant drew me to it was its Christmas card look City for acrylic; Diane Lindsay of and color scheme. The colors are amazRiverview for oil; BB Blackwelder of ing, especially the background. He used Brandon for Watercolor; and Karin less color at the ground which gives the Klaassen of Brandon for mixed media. painting a realistic look.” Wagner is also In the Professional Division, first showcasing six paintings in a feature place went to Richard Wagner of Plant called, Images of Hillsborough County City for acrylic; Douglas Steinbarger of with a focus on Plant City. The Best of Show for the Youth Division went to Yuqin Brandon for oil and mixed media; and Deborah Biasetti of Riverview for waterTian of Tampa. Bryant said, “The Youth color. Best of Show is just outstanding. The

The 2016 Hillsborough County Fair Presents Photography And Photography/Mixed Media Competition The Hillsborough County Fair celebrates the diverse talents of the residents of Hillsborough County. As part of the tradition, the Annual Photography and Photography/Mixed Media Competition is held each year. Aspiring photographers, young and old, enter their work in hopes of winning a ribbon in film (black and white and color), mixed media and digital (black and white and color). The Photography and Photography/Mixed Media According to Chairperson, Competition at the 2016 Hillsborough County Fair. Brenda Anderson, “The photograNew this year, was the category of phy show is a way to learn and grow with Fair Theme. The first winner in this cateyour camera. Every year our show has gory is Ryan Craig, a resident of improved, and as our youth grow, the Riverview. His piece aptly captured this exhibits get even better.” year’s fair theme of Country Pride County The judges for this year’s show were Wide. Robert Winch, a technologist, photograThere were a number of first place pher and teacher and Michael Parker, a winners in a variety of categories. These nationally recognized artist. The judges included Barbara Biagiotti of Seffner in said of the entries, “Congratulations to the Adult Division. Meera Nair of everyone on a great show this year. It is Riverview in the Elementary Division. great to see so many folks of all ages Kata Muellerleile of Tampa in the Middle experimenting and pushing the boundDivision. Jordyn Shelton of Riverview in aries of photography.” the Secondary Division. In the Black and The Adult Best of Show was awardWhite Division (all ages), the first place ed to D’Lynn Ryan of Valrico. The winning winner is Donna Schoen of Valrico. In the piece was called, “Marble Magic.” Digital Division, the first place winner is Anderson said, “It is a wonderful picture Aaron Thompson of Plant City. In the of marble architecture.” Mixed Media Division (all ages), the first The Youth Best of Show was awardplace winter is Jadon Biagiotti of Seffner. ed to Austin Holcomb of Lithia for his Please visit www.hillsboroughcountypiece, “Fruit Pizza.” fair.com.

Presents:

Wonderland of Lights Drive Thru Hillsborough County Fairgrounds Opens Thanksgiving Night Nov. 24th thru Sat. Dec 31st 6pm ‐ 9pm Sun ‐ Thurs. | 6pm ‐ 10pm Fri. & Sat.

After driving thru the beautiful lights, stop by The Christmas Village and Enjoy: • • • • • •

Hot Cocoa & Donuts Kettle Korn Kona Ice goodies Popcorn & Cotton Candy Funnel Cakes A selection of Fair foods & more

• North Pole Express Train Ride • Pony Rides • Horse Drawn Wagon Rides • Visit with The Wolves of the World • Shop, Craft & Gift Vendors

Vehicles (up to eight passengers) $20 Tickets for the drive thru can be purchased at www.thewonderlando!lights.com

November 2016

Page 47

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

By Tamas Mondovics

Fire Prevention Week Puts Spotlight On Smoke Alarms That smoke alarms have an amazing save lives there is little partnership with doubt. Unfortunately, the local agencies such first line of fire prevention as the American is to actually have funcred Cross and the tioning alarms installed Children’s Board, to within the home or busiwork together on ness. this project,” HCFR According to recent Fire Marshall reports, working alarms Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County News Tammy Zurla said, Vivian McIlrath from Hillsborough cut the risk of fatal home adding that the County Fire Rescue explains to fires in half. Hillsborough team assisted resiJonathan Duarte, Nestor Santiago and County Fire Rescue dents with checking Cristina Cruz what to do if a smoke alarm sounds in their home. McIlrath the expiration date noted that 85 percent of was one of nearly two dozen Fire all fire deaths occur in as well as replace Rescue employees and American Red the home, and the them as needed. Cross volunteers who installed 176 free alarms in 38 homes in a Town ‘N majority happen at night “First and foreCountry neighborhood in conjunction most is to have the when most people are with Fire Rescue Week. sleeping. smoke alarms, to HCFR officials said that when smoke maintain them, to check the dates to alarms fail to sound, it’s usually because make sure they are within the ten year they have missing, dead, or disconnected period, to check and replace the batterbatteries. Smoke alarms should be tested ies,” Zurla said. “Residents should make at least once a month. sure that every room used for sleeping in To draw attention on importance on the home has a working smoke alarm.” smoke alarms Hillsborough County Fire To find out how old a smoke alarm is, Rescue team, led by Chief Dennis Jones, check the manufacture date on the back canvassed several neighborhoods earlier of the alarm, add 10 years to that date, this month to install free smoke alarms in and that’s the year it needs to be homes that need them. replaced. The effort, under this year’s theme The recent neighborhood sweep was “Don’t Wait, Check the Expiration Date,” just one of a number of fire prevention was in conjunction with the 2016 Fire efforts and were part of a full schedule of Prevention Week in mid October, and events planned during Fire Prevention reminded residents that smoke alarms Week. should be replaced every 10 years. For more information please visit “Here in Hillsborough County we www.HCGOV.net.

Chewy Cranberry Pecan Bars Of all fruits, only three - the blueberry, the Concord grape and the cranberry - can trace their roots to North American soil. The name "cranberry" derives from the Pilgrim name for the fruit, “craneberry," so called because the small, pink blossoms that appear in the spring resemble the head and bill of a Sandhill crane. Cranberries are a unique fruit. They can only grow and survive under a very special combination of factors: they require an acid peat soil, an adequate fresh water supply, sand and a growing season that stretches from April to November, including a dormancy period in the winter months that provides an extended chilling period, necessary to mature fruiting buds. Contrary to popular belief, cranberries do not grow in water. Instead, they grow on vines in impermeable beds layered with sand, peat, gravel and clay. These beds, commonly known as "bogs," were originally made by glacial deposits. Normally, growers do not have to replant since an undamaged cranberry vine will survive indefinitely. Some vines in Massachusetts are more than 150 years old. In 1930 the Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc. formed as a grower-owned marketing cooperative.

Ingredients & Directions 1 cup plus 2 tbs. all-purpose flour, divided 2 tbs. plus 1-1/4 cups sugar, divided 1/4 cup cold butter 2/3 cup chopped pecans, divided 1 large egg 2 large egg whites

2 tbs. fat-free milk 1 tbs. grated orange peel 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 cup chopped fresh or frozen cranberries 1/3 cup flaked coconut

1. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup flour and 2 tbs. sugar. Cut in butter until crumbly. Stir in 1/3 cup pecans. Press into an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until set. 2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the egg, egg whites, milk, orange peel, vanilla and remaining flour and sugar. Fold in the cranberries, coconut and remaining pecans. Spread over warm crust. Bake 25-30 minutes longer or until top is golden. Cool on a wire rack. Yield: 2 dozen.

6 Weeks thru 12 Years • Nutritious Meals & Snacks: Low Salt & Sugar • Spanish & Music • Brainwaves Curriculum • ABC Mouse Computer Technology • STEAM (Science, Technology, Enginerring, Arts & Mathematics) • Extracurricular Programs • Outdoor Playgrounds with Water Park • Trained Professional Staff, Certified in First Aid & CPR • Security Code Access Entry • FREE Internet Viewing of Your Child’s Day CIRCA FISHHAWK 813-654-7000

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Stowers, Valrico Academy, Bevis, Fishhawk Creek, Lithia Springs, Foundation Christian, Alafia and Cimino

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Page 48

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/FishHawk

November 2016

Volume 15, Issue 11

Ph: 657-2418

InThis Section

MILITARY COUNSELOR ...................PG 52 HOLIDAY TEA.......................... ........PG 53 GIFT GUIDE..............................PGS 54‐59 BLESSINGS IN A BACKPACK. ...........PG 61 CRAFT BAZAAR ...............................PG 62 NEW DENTIST.................................PG 63

Red Carpet USA Entertainment & Events To Hold Job Fair

On Thursday, November 11 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Red Carpet USA Entertainment & Events will hold a Job Fair at George M. Steinbrenner Field, 1 Steinbrenner Dr. in Tampa. Admission and parking are free. There will be 30 plus hiring agents and education reps. Jobs listed on www.redcarpetusa.us. Free resume review and resume writing classes every hour. There will also be a special veteran’s section with educational resources. Computers will be available onsite for job applicants.

Affordable Website Solutions for Small Business & Non Profits

One of the most important things your business or organization needs to stay relevant in this Internet-driven world is a mobile-friendly website. You may find it difficult or impossible to do it yourself (DIY), and even harder to find reliable help. Site Assembly, a Lithia based startup, aims to fix all of that. “Our goal is to make hiring your own, professional website manager as easy as ordering a pizza,” said Daniel Devereux, founder and product visionary at Site Assembly. “That may sound a bit sensational,” Devereux continues, “but it’s not. We’re always finding new ways to streamline our processes and better

Citrus Carpet and Tile Cleaning of Tampa recently held a Ribbon Cutting with the Valrico FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call 314-7900 or visit CitrusCleanTampa.com.

equip our clients with the resources they need to operate a successful website.” The platform which launched in January 2016, offers a breath of fresh air to those who’ve ever tried to hire their own website manager. “We operate seven-days-a-week, providing phone, email, text and onsite chat support so your questions are answered quickly,” Daniel shares. Each website is backed up regularly, insured at full value, hosted securely, and owned by you. To learn more about how Site Assembly can help your business or organization, call 336-1732.

FAOPA Offers Digital Photography And Interior Decorating Classes This Fall New classes are taking place this

all those buttons are on the camera, as well as lighting, positioning subjects and much more. The cost is $120 for each four week session. A ‘Do It Yourself’ Interior Decorating class will take place with Char Beacom, who will share Café Cuba, 3240 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, recent- her tips and tricks. The ly held a Ribbon Cutting with the Valrico FishHawk class will take place on Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call 655Tuesday, December 6, 13 6499 or visit on Facebook. and 20 from 6:30-8:30 fall at The Florida Academy of the p.m. The cost for the three week class Performing Arts. is $90. Classes are held at Music Showcase, 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. To register for any of the classes, visit faopa.org or call 490-2787.

5th Dimension Dance Center

Recently opened 5th Dimension Dance Center strives to provide a stimulating environment, focused on providing students of all ages with a unique, Encore by David Weekley Homes recently hosted its healthy and challenging dance ribbon cutting for its model homes and clubhouse located in FishHawk Ranch’s only 55+ Community experience. It offers Ballet, Hipat 6004 Thrushwood Rd, Lithia. Five models open Hop, Lyrical/Contemporary, daily, homes from the $290s. 422-6175. Jazz, Modern, Tap, Core Strength – both recreational and team for ages 2-18. competitive A Digital Photography class will Owner’s Alexis Johnson, Chris take place Monday, November 28, Johnson, Christi Johnson, Bobby December 5, 12 & 19 from 6:30-8:30 Welsby, and Michelle Welsby are p.m. Join professional photographer

Charlena Beacom to learn about what

Continued on Next Page

Page 50

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Business Column Continued.............

By Michelle Colesanti

devoted to developing each student’s potential with a first-rate dance education, while encouraging creativity and personal, artistic growth. By participating in the dance program, they believe students will have the capability to experience an increase in their overall, physical and mental well-being. 5th Dimension Dance Center is located at 3239 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. The hours are 4–8 p.m. Monday–Thursday, 4–6 p.m. on Friday, and 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday. Call 6435332 or visit 5thdimensiondancecenter.com.

In the New York NOW Show's Design Retail Challenge, stores from around the country that shop for items in New York were asked to send in photos of their stores on Instagram. Photos were voted on by other stores, vendors and fans of the store. Out of hundreds of entries, Orange Home Accessories in Valrico was selected as one of the top 25 finalists. The finalists were invited to a breakfast in New York with Meg Caswell of HGTV to discuss upcoming trends. While in New Shop Local At FishHawk York, a Sporting Goods For Great Champagne Customer Service Breakfast was FishHawk Sporting Goods held for the is a family run community 25 winners based sporting goods store Dr. Daley and third Generation patient and three of offering both new and quality with her twin daughters; looking for- the 25 finalward to being their (twins) caregiver used sporting goods. It also ists won also. purchases quality used sportmoney to ing goods for resale. One of shop for their stores at the New York owners Bruce & Dantys Bohan’s Show. biggest goals is to be known as that “Although I did not win, the expericlean and family-friendly neighborhood ence was great,” Orange owner Debby store with great customer service with Ploor noted. a desire is to build long term lasting Orange Home Accessories is locatcommunity and family relationships. ed at 1046 Bloomingdale Ave. in This is the store where the games Valrico. For more information, call 681begin and you can get your kid in the 8686, email info@orangehomeaccesgame for a reasonable price; a great sories.com or visit www.orangehomeplace where you can shop local. decor.com. FishHawk Sporting Goods is located at 13446 Boyette Rd. in Riverview (River Springs Plaza) and is open Rejuvenation Spa Will Hold Special Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Holiday Event Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and A special holiday event will be held Sunday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. For more on Thursday, November 10 from 5-7 information, call 324-9161 or visit p.m. at Rejuvenation Spa, located in www.FishHawkSportingGoods.com or Riverview Hills Plaza, 4373 Lynx Paw visit on Facebook. Trail in Valrico. Enjoy wine and cheese and complimentary Honey Heel Glaze Local Retailer Finalist in New York Foot Treatment, Get 10% off retail and NOW Show’s Design Retail gift cards. There will be a basket raffle Challenge by Pevonia and 15% off purchase of

Volume 15, Issue 11

PrimeMed of Tampa Bay just celebrated its one-year anniversary in Brandon in July. On October 15, Dr. Daley hosted his patient family in the first annual “Daley Dose” luncheon. When asked how the term “Daley Dose” came about, Dr. Daley chuckled and said, “When patients fail to make their appointments or are lost to follow up, they receive a reminder from my team to come in for their ‘Daley Dose,’ hence the term. And it works; patients will come in and this improves patient compliance and their overall regard for their health and Orange Owner Debby Ploor (right) stands with Meg wellness.” Caswell, the guest speaker and HGTV Design star. Daley & Associates full skin regiment. Receive a gift with a PrimeMed of Tampa Bay is a traditional retail purchase. The promos are only Internal Medicine practice with offices valid from 5-7 p.m. in Brandon and Bradenton. Most comFor more information on mercial insurance products, including Rejuvenation Spa, call 643-8266 or Aetna, AvMed, Blue Cross and Blue visit www.rejuvenationspafl.com. Shield, CIGNA, Humana, Tricare, United Healthcare Multiple Services are accepted Offered By along with a Armor Guard variety of Painting & Medicare Coating, LLC products. Daley & Armor Guard Associates Painting & Coating PrimeMed of is a full service Tampa Bay is painting company located at 631 offering interior W. Lumsden and exterior paintRd. For more ing and coatings. information, The painting/coatcall 530-0903. ing of tile roofs, Congratulations to Jerry Burgin for winning the pool decks, Top Newcomer Male 2016 Trophy at Encore Dancesport’s new dance competition. garage floors and Lithia driveways are offered along with other services for Resident Receives Top Newcomer interior including wall paper removal, Male Award at New Dance popcorn removal, drywall repairs and Competition texture. Jerry Burgin danced nine dances Free in-home inspections are at a new dance competition – Encore offered along with a free written estion Florida’s East Coast. He danced the mate. There are written warranties on Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Swing, Rumba, all work and special discounts are Cha-Cha, Hustle and Merengue and offered for veterans and seniors. received all First Place in Competitive Online specials from $250 to $550 off and Rising Star Divisions. are offered. Visit www.armorguard.net Burgin, along with wife Beverly, for more details. Ask about the “show dances at The Way 2 Dance. He is home” discount as well. very competitive, goal-oriented, has For more information, call 727-501very self-demanding work ethic to per1264 Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-5 fect every technique possible, and he p.m. is lots of fun to be around. The Way 2 Dance is located at 610 Come In For Your “Daley” Dose Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. Call 966Dr. Daley and Daley & Associates 4788.

November 2016

Page 51

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

STEVE MORAN P.A. 813-661-2476

Breathe Easy In Stress Free Atmosphere Of The Salt Grotto Staff Report

This cold and flu al treatment," season, try The Salt Austerman said. Grotto, located in "People don't realize Plaza Bella at 1026 how important the Bloomingdale Ave. in treatments are for their Valrico for a 100% natimmune system as a ural, safe and drughealth preventative." free, respiratory relief Customer Marie option. Upon walking Gilmore is a big fan in the door, customers and purchased a are welcomed by Children’s Room soothing Himalayan Package, "I became a Salt lamps and the customer because I subtle aroma of had a stuffy 18-monthThe Salt Grotto incorporates Halo Essential old and I didn't want to (Salt) therapy with Himalayan Pink Oils. Treatment rooms Salt to bring a healing, immune system medicate him. Instead boosting and relaxing treatment to have sand-like pink he played quietly in customers. salt on the floors, and the Children's Therapy walls are lined with art made from rocks Room while I drank green tea and after of Himalayan Salt. During the 30-45 45 minutes, his congestion was clear and minute sessions, custom Halogenerators even I felt better. We really look forward release 100% pure pharmaceutical-grade to our sessions." salt to create a dry aerosol that works as Additional treatments offered at The an anti-inflammatory as well as clearing Salt Grotto include a Far Infrared Sauna, mucus. Acupuncture, and Massage Therapy. At the Salt Grotto, halo (salt) therapy Dr. Stephen Dell-Jones, acupunctursessions are offered in multiple formats ist, provides private and group sessions with and Adult Room, Children's Room dedicated to naturally treating multiple and Private Salt Bed. The Adult Room health concerns including arthritis, anxioffers 45 minutes of pure relaxation in a ety, joint pain, and more. Group sessions zero gravity lounge chair. are held in the Adult Salt Room where The private Salt Bed Chamber is a clients receive a salt therapy session at great way to ease stress while treating the same time. skin conditions caused by bacteria or funMassage therapist, Ilena Benjamin, gus, such as eczema, psoriasis and provides The Salt Grotto's clients with acne. treatments and services that will encourOwner Debbie Austerman purchased age relaxation and aid in healing. The Salt Grotto just over a year ago and For more information, visit thesaltis proud of the healing properties her grotto.com. You can book an appointment business offers. "We provide an all-naturonline or call 324-8946.

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Page 52

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Volume 15, Issue 11

Randall & Barrington Middle Schools Offer Counseling To Military Kids & Families

Call To Artists Issued For The 9th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival & Artisan Market

Every member of communication and a military family relationships at knows all too well the home and at school, wide variety of issues life skills such as imposed on them by problem solving, military life. But coping conflict resolution, with these demands adjusting to change, issues including bulmay be most difficult lying and anger for the family’s chilmanagement as well dren and to help, the as changes on the Department of home front such as Defense (DoD) funds deployment and the Child and Youth reunion, divorce, Behavioral Military Counselor Tammy Alsing, left is welcomgrief and loss. and Family Life ing military mom Nikki Hall to Randall Middle School. Hall recently moved to Alsing added Counselor (CYBFishHawk from Alabama. that counseling MFLC) program, makes a difference through the use of which plays a key role in giving military programs such as behavioral intervention children the support they may need durin classrooms and feedback to parents ing some of the more challenging periand staff through discussions and interacods. tions with children. Contracted by the Hillsborough “Counseling is always confirmed by County Public Schools, children of military the parents ahead of time and is at times families who attend Barrington and Randall Middle Schools have been enjoy- available in group sessions, which can include civilian students as well,” Alsing ing the federally funded services of one said, but added that services are private such counselor, Tammy Alsing. and confidential with the exception of Specializing in child and behavioral child abuse or neglect, domestic abuse issues, Alsing brings years of experience and other duty-to-warn situations. at no cost to the more than 100 military Each week, Barrington Middle children at Barrington. Randall currently School military children and families may boasts of 150 military children. take advantage of Alsing’s expertise on “We cover a wide variety of issues Mondays and Tuesdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 the students are dealing with at school or p.m. at home, both on and off campus,” Alsing On Wednesdays, Thursdays and said. “My hope is that parents and the Fridays, Alsing’s services are utilized at students are aware of the support that Randall. For more information, about are provided for them exclusively.” Hillsborough County Public Schools, According to Alsing, MFLCs can please visit www. sdhc.k12.fl.us. address issues related to self-esteem,

A call to Show. The artists and artishow is sans has been judged by issued by highly qualified organizers of judges. the 9th Annual Katharine Winthrop Arts SullivanFestival and Dawes, the Artisan Director of Market, which Everything for will be held on Winthrop Arts, All artists and artisans are encouraged to join Winthrop Saturday, Inc. said, “We Founder, John Sullivan and Winthrop Town Artist, Bryant March 25 and are adding Martinez and volunteers, Patricia Guthman and Emaly Martinez at the 9th Annual Winthrop Arts Festival and Sunday, spaces this Artisan Market. March 26 from year for both 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Winthrop Common in artists and artisans, as we want to showRiverview. All artists and artisans who are case more talent in our community. We interested in having their art work considhave also extended the application winered for this juried arts show, can visit dow, so artists and artisans have more www.winthroparts.org and download an time to submit their work. We are hoping application. for the largest and most diverse festival Applications received by November ever.” 30 must include an application fee of $25. Bryant Martinez, the Winthrop Town Those submitted after December 1, must Artist said, "The Winthrop Arts Festival be accompanied by a $50 application fee. and Artisan Market is becoming a great Once artists are notified of their acceptvenue for artists from all over to show ance into the show, there is an application their work. This community has truly fee of $100. For artisans, the application embraced the arts.” fee and timeline are the same. The artiSullivan-Dawes added, “In addition to san market fee is $250. Both fees are attending this two day event, the commudue by March 1, 2017. nity can embrace their inner art critic by The Winthrop Arts Festival and becoming a Friend of Winthrop Arts sponArtisan Market is a juried show, and it has sor for only $125. You can select your become a recognized and eagerly awaitfavorite artist and they receive a $75 ed annual event. Artists and artisans from award. It is a great way to get involved the local area as well as nationally have with this community event.” participated in years past. Fine art artists Sponsorships are available at varying who are accepted will be eligible to win levels. For more information, please visit monetary awards. Last year over $2,200 www.winthroparts.org or email was awarded including $1,000 for Best of info@winthroparts.org.

By Tamas Mondovics

By Kathy L. Collins

November 2016

Page 53

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Harley-Davidson Hosts 4th Annual Gems & Jeans To Support Adoptive Families

By Kathy L. Collins

The Sylvia the live music of Thomas Center, a Smakk, and glam local non-profit, it up in the photo which provides booth for the percomprehensive fect take home post-adoption supgift. port to keep the Chiarenza "forever" in forever added, “Live families, will hold music, great its 4th Annual food, drinks and Gems & Jeans silent auction. Ball. This event All for a wonThe 4th Annual Gems & will be held on derful causeJeans will benefit the Sylvia Thomas Center. Saturday, adoptive famiNovember 12 from lies. Every year 7 to 10 p.m. at the Harley-Davidson of this event gets Brandon located at 9841 E. Adamo Dr. in bigger and better, so do not miss out. Join Tampa. us, along with friends, sponsors and supTickets to this event are just $40 per porters, for a fun night out.” individual and $75 per couple. You will The Sylvia Thomas Center is a supenjoy an evening of great food, a full bar, portive, guiding resource for adoptive chilraffle prizes, silent auction and diamond dren and their families in Hillsborough door give away. Each ticket that is purCounty. The center strives to help the chased is entered into a drawing for a entire family cope and adjust as children fabulous pair of diamond hooped earand teens transition from foster care to rings. You can visit the Sylvia Thomas their forever homes. The Sylvia Thomas Center on Facebook and begin bidding Center has been helping children and on silent auction items on Tuesday, their forever families since 2000. November 1. Funds from the event will enable the “We are excited this year to have Sylvia Thomas Center to continue providHarley-Davidson of Brandon supporting ing healing services for adopted and fosus again with the use of their beautiful ter children and their families. Thanks to facility. For the first time at our event, local successful case management services, it band, Smakk, will be entertaining our is estimated that the center has a greater guests,” said Pearl Chiarenza, than 99 percent success rate at keeping Community Liaison for the Sylvia Thomas forever families together. Center. Tickets to the 4th Annual Gems & For the third year in a row, Tony Lima Jeans event can be purchased at will bring local artists to create one-of -a www.eventbrite.com and search for the kind art masterpieces. You can dance to Gems & Jeans event.

Center Place Holiday Tea Offers Music, Scones & Devonshire Creme

By Kathy L. Collins

Center Place Yummy desserts Fine Arts and will be provided Civic Association by Jute’s Box (Center Place) will Bakery and hold its 6th Annual Moreno’s Bakery. Holiday Tea on Teavana holiday Sunday, teas will be proDecember 4 vided by Orange beginning at 2:30 Home p.m. The cost is Accessories in $35 per person or Valrico. Chick-fil-A $250 for a table of at Lake Brandon eight. Table reser- Gather your friends and family and set a great is also a lunch holiday table at Center Place’s 6th Annual vations must be sponsor. Holiday Tea set to take place on Sunday, made by will be Attendees December 4. November 20. treated to special You can get your tickets by calling 685entertainment by The Southern Company 8888 or email cpfinearts@verizon.net. Chorus, an 18 member local, all women This is an adult only event. This event chorus. always sells out early, so be sure to get In addition to great food and enteryour tickets or tables now. All proceeds tainment, you can enjoy Center Place’s raised fund children’s programs at Center great silent auction. Rodriguez said, “Our Place. fabulous silent auction will be a great This year’s theme is “A Florida place to shop for those unique Christmas Christmas.” Lisa Rodriguez, Marketing gifts, while supporting our non-profit art Director for Center Place explained, “This center at the same time. It is a win-win. offers the sponsored tables an opportuniGift items for all ages will be showcased.” ty to really be creative. For instance, you Center Place is a not-for profit arts could have a beachy Christmas with organization established in 1976. Its items such as shells or one featuring members are dedicated to the promotion gators or manatees. Just have fun. We of fine arts and civic involvement. Center will have special prizes for the most Place offers cultural enrichment opportuunique and most whimsical table.” nities for all ages through a variety of proFor just $50 you can have the talentgrams including original art exhibits, art ed decorators at Center Place set your education and the performing arts. table. Center Place is located at 619 The 6th Annual Holiday Tea will feaVonderburg Dr. in Brandon. For more ture a special holiday lunch including holi- information, please visit www.centerplaceday scones and Devonshire cream. brandon.org.

CAREGIVER TIP: “For someone with dementia wringing their hands is normal. Stimulate their minds and their hands by creating a !idget quilt.”

Drop by Superior Residences to choose the perfect fidget quilt for your loved one! (complimentary while supplies last)

Compassionate Dementia Care 1819 Providence Ridge Blvd. Brandon, FL 33511

(813)657-8587 www.SuperiorALF.com Assisted Living #AL9739

• Montessori Certified Teachers • Spanish and French, German with K-3rd • Spotlight Dance with Ms. Susan • Tumblebus • Piano and Harp Lessons • Soccer Shots • Art Monkey Pottery

• Tampa Bay Family Theater • Care-Taking of Farm Animals • Gardening • Cooking Class • Yoga • Military/First Responders Discount • Sibling Discount

“The child is both hope and a promise for mankind” - Maria Montessori

Sweepstakes Highlights Best Of Shop Local By Marie Gilmore This holiday season, the Osprey Observer is partnering with local businesses to highlight the best of Shop

Advertising Sales Manager. “We have never done a program like this in the paper and we are excited to share some of the treasures from our local small businesses with our readers.” Bridget Jenkins Wilson, owner of Cardinal Roofing and a member of the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of The Valrico/FishHawk Chamber will host the Shop Local Holiday Commerce said Expo on Saturday, December 3 from 9 a.m.-12 noon. the Chamber is Local gift giving. The campaign is also focused on encouraging local called, the Osprey Observer, A Few of shopping this holiday season and in Our Favorite Things and we have gone face has a Shop Local Holiday Expo to local businesses and asked them to coming up on Saturday, December 3, 9 give us ideas of a few of the top items a.m.-12 Noon at Park Square in available this holiday season. FishHawk Ranch. “Anything we can do From now until December 16, we to keep our local businesses in the will be collecting Our Favorite Things spotlight is great for our community,” all throughout the community and putshe said. “And, this is a great opportuting them together in one giant gift bas- nity for Osprey Observer readers to ket that will be given out in a have a chance to win an amazing holiSweepstakes for our readers. day gift.” “We have so many great items To enter, email Sweepstakes to coming in and someone is going to be contest@ospreyobserver.com or fill out very excited to receive all of these the entry form and send in by mail, fax great items from the businesses in our or email. Good luck and thank you for community,” said Kerrie Hoening, shopping local!

Enter the Sweepstakes to win a prize basket of items from The Favorite Things Shop Local Campaign. Why would you like to win the Shop Local Sweepstakes Basket?

Name: Address: Phone: Email: Community: Enter to win online at contest@opreyobserver.com, fax to 657-4469 or mail to 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511.

Also, enter by email at contest@ospreyobserver.com

16715 FishHawk Boulevard (Across from Newsome High School) Lic # CPC 1458117

Lithia / FishHawk

813-655-3700

www.pinchapenny.com

Be Happy With Gifts Give Back And Music Showcase Lessons & Performing Arts Be Happy is located in the Marathon Plaza, 11369 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. Call 677-2300 for more information or visit www.behappyboutique.com. Gift Basket Item: Jewelry Snug Value: $30

Be Happy Boutique seeks out gift and apparel items that give back to the world.

Invest In Gifts That Give Back To The World At Be Happy Boutique As you enter Be Happy Boutique, warm teas perfume the air and guests are surrounded by fashionable, unique lines of apparel, shoes, accessories, home décor, specialty gifts, and candles. Positive energy radiates throughout the entire space, and best of all you will find something here for every taste and every budget. Owner Tonya Antaki seeks out items that give back to the world in

some way so you can feel good knowing that the gifts you purchase will have additional impact around the world. A great gift idea for your special friend or family member is Jewelry Snug. It is the perfect gift for the girl who has everything. This is for the friend who loves to travel and look good when she arrives at her destination. (Don't forget to buy yourself one!)

A Few Of Your Favorite Things Can Be Found At Music Showcase Music is the international language that is understood and enjoyed by all. Share your love of music by offering voice or instrument lessons to your favorite student.

By Michelle Colesanti

Instrument rentals start at $10 (if you don’t want to make a purchase). If you sign up online, the instrument will be delivered to your school. All of your music needs can be found at Music Showcase, which offers competitive pricing on sheet music and books, inhouse repair shop, private and group lessons. Is your child interested in musical theatre, acting, or maybe photography? Sign them up at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-5998 or visit MusicShowcaseOnline.com and FAOPA.org. Gift Basket Item: Music Lessons Certificate Value $70

Holiday Coin Collections, A Daydreams Day Spa Escape & New Sporting Goods Corbin’s Stamp & Coin Can Help You Start Treasured Family Heirloom Are you looking for the perfect keepsake gift for a family with a new baby? Maybe you are interested in starting a new family tradition by commemorating the Christmas season each year. Holiday coin collections are the perfect way. One ounce pure silver coins are available for $29.95 in a gift box or also as an ornament that can be displayed. Corbin’s Coins is located at 209 N. Kings Ave. in Brandon and is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Gift Basket Item: 1 oz. Silver Christmas Coin Value $30

more information on this location, Journey To Tranquility At DayDreams Day Spa call 863-686-5859. With all the stress the holidays bring, what better gift for someone Gift Basket Item: The Tranquility (or yourself) is to escape for a few Journey - “Escape to Tranquility” hours to DayDreams Day Spa & when you indulge in this 80 minute Relaxation Massage. The Bath Shop. You can make pampering continues with a that possible with a gift card Hydrating to Daydreams. Heated Hand There are many different Therapy types of spa packages to Treatment and Serenity choose from including masHot Stone sage therapy, body, therapy, Foot skin car therapy, nail and Massage that pedicure treatments. There will relax the is also a shop that includes muscles, allowing for a spa products. Pevonia Skin therapeutic Care products are offered. experience. Gift certificates are Total Time is available at the Spa, located 95 minutes. at 658 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon or Value $135 online at www.daydreamsdayspa.com. A second FishHawk Sporting DayDreams Goods Offers New location is in And Gently Used Lakeland at Apparel & 1463 Town Equipment DayDreams Day Spa gift certificates make Center Dr. For FishHawk excellent holiday gifts.

By Michelle Colesanti

Sporting Goods is a new store that recently opened at 13446 Boyhette Rd. in Riverview (RiverSprings plaza at FishHawk and Boyette Rds. It is a locally owned family business, and offers a local alternative for all of your family’s sporting good needs in a family friendly environment that is close to home and offers competitive pricing. You will find new and gently used sporting apparel and equipment for all sports. These will make great gifts for your favorite young athletes this holiday season. For more information, call 3249161 or visit FHSportingGoods.com. Gift Basket Item: New Football

New Holiday Fashion & Gifts At TMarie’s And The Gift Of Health From The Campo Y By Michelle Colesanti

Find Your Perfect Holiday Ensemble At TMaries Fashion & Gifts Boutique TMaries Fashion & Gifts Boutique is your one stop shop for all of your favorite fashion outfits and accessories for the upcoming holiday season. While you are in

there shopping for those party clothes, you will also find many accessories including jewelry that would make great gifts for friends and family members. Some brands available at TMaries include Tribal, Elan, Catherine Barclay, Julian Chang, French Dressing Jeans and Cabana Life. T. Marie’s Fashion & Gift Boutique is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 Noon-5 p.m. It is located at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more information, call 530-0922. Visit www.TMariesfashions.com Gift Basket Item: Luxurious blue velvet evening bag with Swarovski crystal embellishment and peacock design Value $128

someone, you are letting them know how much you care and want them to live their healthiest lives. Campo Y offers many exercise options for all ages and body types. Many family programs and camps are offered including child care while you work out. Other programs are also offered. For many, Campo Y becomes like a second home. Campo Y is located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico. It is open Monday to Friday from 5 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-6 p.m. For more information, call 6841371. Visit www.tampaymca.org/locations/campo.

Gift the Gift of Health At Campo Y The start of a new year holds a lot of promise. Everyone makes resolutions to eat healthier and to exercise more. This year, it is time to do something about it. By giving a gift of a Campo Y A great holiday gift idea is a membermembership to the local Y! ship to

Gift Basket Item: Family Membership for three months Value $250

Christmas C ins 1oz Pure Silver

$29.95

each Gift Boxed or Ornaments

CORBIN’S

Stamp & Coin 209 N. Kings Ave. Brandon, Florida 33510

813-651-3266 corbincoin@verizon.net

Mon-Fri 9am - 4pm

Sat 9am - 1pm

*Silver prices subject to change.

HOURS: Mon-Sat 10am-7pm • Sun 12pm-5pm

813-530-0922

www.TMariesFashions.com 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd Valrico (at Bloomingdale)

Backyard Birdseed Gifts For Nature Lovers, Tasteful Fruit Bouquets & DK’s Outlet Find Great Gift Ideas for Nature Lovers and Birders At Backyard Birdseed

Fly on by to check out the great gift ideas for the nature lovers in your life. A great gift idea is the Squirrel Buster bird feeder, which helps to limit squirrels from making claim to the food. Backyard Birdseed carries premium seed for all types of feeders depending on what type of birds you are trying to attract. You can also mix your own blend birdseed. A wide array of other products is also carried to increase backyard (and front yard) enjoyment for children and birders of all ages., find ideas and problem-solvers for your outdoor living spaces, and discover activities and tools for indoor learning and fun. Backyard Birdseed is located at 3642 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico (next to Carwash on the Green). It is open

Tuesday-Friday from 12 Noon-6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. It is closed on Monday. For more information, call 816-BIRD (2473) or visit www.BackyardBirdseed.com and on FB: Backyard Birdseed.

Gift Basket Item: Squirrel Buster & Food Value $50

DK’s Outlet Offers Great Gift Ideas At Outlet Prices

Are you ready to look your best this holiday season? All new top designer looks are available at outlet prices at DK’s Outlet, located at 3455 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. (Winn Dixie Plaza). DK’s Outlet also has plenty of gift ideas such as clothes, jewelry, luggage, and shoes. Brand names such as Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Cole Haan, Style & Co. are available.

By Michelle Colesanti

The store is open MondayThursday from 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9:30 a.m.7:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, call 4093521

star “lights”, a large pineapple star tree topper, and a Merry Christmas Gourmet Belgian Chocolate Pop; or an adorable snowman keepsake with a Season’s Greetings Celebration™ bouquet featuring gourmet chocolate dipped pineapple stars, reindeer, and strawberries. Following the traditional Delicious Celebration® bouquet recipe, honeydew, cantaloupe, strawberries, and grapes are scattered throughout to create an eye-catching and wow-worthy

Gift Basket Item: Blouse And Jewelty Ensemble Value $50

Tasteful Gifts From Edible Arrangements Make Great Holiday Treats

What better way to say you care than with a healthy and tasteful gift of fresh fruit. With many assortments from Edible

effect. There are many other eye-catching and delicious choices. Edible Arrangements can be found locally in the Shoppes at Lithia, located at 3455 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico (571-7200), and also at 10273 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview (Bell Plaza) (672-6111) or order online at www.ediblearrangements.com.

Arrangements, you will find something for everyone on your gift list. Choose from many beautiful holiday gift baskets such as the Christmas Tree Bouquet, which is decorated with cantaloupe, “ornaments” made of Swizzle Apple Fruit Truffles®, small pineapple

Gift Basket Item: 12-count chocolate covered fruit.

Orange Home Accessories 1046 Bloomingdale Avenue, Valrico 813-681-8686 info@orangehomeaccessories.com www.orangehomedecor.com

10 Year Anniversary Event Friday, Nov 18 * 6-9 pm

Fundraiser and Awareness Campaign for

Prelude to a Cure

a Lung Cancer Research & Awareness Organization

Both Offers Expire 11/30/16 *Not to be combined with any other coupon or discount offer.

“FramingYour Windows in Time”

AT E R G T GIF A! IDE

Our prices are already affordable! No 50% Coupons Needed! Oil Paint Stretches Shadow Boxes Needle Points

Restoration Repairs 15 Years In The Area

(813) 655-6400

6128 Winthrop Town Center Ave. Riverview fastframe328@hotmail.com

Enhance The Perfect Photo At FastFrame & Get Pampered With A Mobile Massage Enhance Your Photos At FastFrame For The Perfect Holiday Gift

Did you take a special picture this year while you spent time with your family, maybe on vacation or at a special event? Surprise your family this year with a wonderful family picture commemorating this special shared time. Once you have that beautiful photo, a frame becomes part of the bigger picture, so it’s important to make sure that it brings out the photo in just the right way. When customers bring in their personal items and they are not sure about how to decorate their art, FastFrame owner Alex Roche helps to educate them on how to enhance their item through framing. He offers competitive pricing and has been

assisting customers with frames for over 28 years. For more information, visit www.fastframe.com or call Roche at 655-6400. FastFrame is located at 6128 Winthrop Town Center Ave. in Riverview. Hours of operation are Sunday and Monday by appointment only with 24-hour notice and Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

By Michelle Colesanti

Neuromuscular, Pre-natal and Sports Massage. The goal is to provide pain and stress relief through therapeutic massage in the privacy of your own home. What a great gift to give to someone on your list. Daniella is a professional licensed Massage Therapist, who has 13 years of experience and a

background in Physical Therapy. For more information, call 3234901, email dveten@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/DaniellasMobile Massage.

Gift Basket Item: One Hour Massage Value: $65

Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, Pre-natal and Sports Massage Convenient, Mobile Massage with Flexible Scheduling

Gift Basket Item: Two $40 Gift Cards Value: $80

Professional, Licensed Massage Therapist with 13 years of experience and a background in Physical Therapy

Everyone Needs The Gift of Relaxation This Holiday Season

The holidays can be a very stressful time of year. With the flexible schedule that Daniella’s Mobile Massage offers, you can always find a convenient time to take that break and be good to yourself. Daniella offers Deep Tissue,

Gift Certificates

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

... the Perfect Gift for ANYONE on your list!

(813) 323-4901

dveten@gmail.com www.facebook.com/DaniellasMobileMassage

License #39122

3642 Lithia Pinecrest Rd (next to CarWash on the Greens)

813-816-BIRD (2473)

www.BackyardBirdseed.com BackyardBirdseed@gmail.com

Backyard Birdseed

Great Gift Ideas for Everyone On Your List! Premium Birdseed • Bird Baths

Bird & Bat Houses • Hummingbird Feeders Patio & Garden Decor

Gift Certifificcates Available! Mondays (closed) | T thru F - noon to 6pm | Sat & Sun - 10am to 4pm

Shoppes at Lithia

3455 Lithia Pinecrest Rd Valrico, FL 33596

813-571-7200

Save $5

Bell Plaza

10273 Big Bend Rd Riverview, FL 33578

813-672-6111

CODE:FLOS1216 EXP 12-31-16

*See store for details. Offer expires 12/31/16. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Restrictions may apply. Edible®, Edible Arrangements®, the Fruit Basket Logo, and other marks mentioned herein are registered trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. © 2015 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved.

Page 60

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Bridges Celebrates 7th Anniversary & Offers Mind Boost Workshop

Staff Report

Ken and Miriam Soderstrom enjoy the festivities during The Bridges 7th anniversary celebration.

The Bridges Retirement Community recently celebrated its seventh anniversary with a special evening affair for residents, family, friends, and staff. To further the excitement of the night, the Just Two Duo performed music from the 40s, 50s and 60s. "We have a wonderful community of residents, family and staff. We all feel blessed to be part of The Bridges family", states Donna Steiermann, Executive Director at The Bridges. The Bridges opened its doors in October 2009 and have since grown to over 90 assisted living and memory care residents. Residents enjoy a variety of activities, wellness programs, social events and sharing meals with friends. According Carole Fluhart, whose sister resides at The Bridges, "I have found The Bridges to be a community full of energy and activities. I particularly like their wonderful music program, which I know to be so benefi-

cial to the well-being of people of all ages. I have peace of mind knowing that my family member is well-taken care of and is experiencing excellent quality of life." The Bridges Retirement Community is located at 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview and is dedicated to providing health care and housing for the elderly.

The Bridges Retirement Community Hosts Mind Boost Workshop

Our brains are powerful and even more so when we understand how our brains work and what we can do to improve our memory. The Mind Boost workshop, held on Tuesday, November 10 from 3- 5 p.m., will provide information on normal changes in memory, how memory works, steps to improve memory and memory exercises. Anna Lively, National Board Certified and Licensed Mental Health Counselor will facilitate the program, which is sponsored by the South Shore Coalition for Mental Health and Aging. The workshop, held at The Bridges, 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview, is $5 to attend and includes refreshments and workshop materials. Call Janet at 413-8900 to reserve your seat.

10 Years Strong! WWW.FISHHAWKWOLFPACK.COM For more information, please contact Jerry Allen at WolfpackFBRegistrar@gmail.com

President - Fred Velazquez | Luke Hardiman - Vice President Ray Stubbs - Football Commissioner | Merideth Van Auken - Cheer Coordinator | Jerry Allen - Registrar

Volume 15, Issue 11

ABWIG Celebrates $1.5M Dredging Completion & Grand Reopening Of Nature Preserve By Tamas Mondovics

After nearly six TECO, folyears of hard work, lowed by the members of the South Channel Apollo Beach going in to Waterway Symphony Improvement Isles and Mira Group (ABWIG) Bay and the were pleased to Main Channel, announce the comsouth of pletion of the Andalucia. Aside from Apollo Beach shoreline restoraApollo Beach Nature Preserve gives a clear pic- the dredging, ture of the recently restored park, including a the project also tion project. To celbrand new 2.5-acre beach. The group is hosting a included the ebrate, ABWIG grand reopening ceremony this month. President Len restoration of Berkstresser has confirmed a grand the Apollo Beach Nature Preserve, 6760 opening ceremony scheduled for Surfside Blvd, and the creation of a brand Saturday, October 22, 2016, which he new 2.5-acre white sandy beach within said will bring together local dignitaries, the preserve. county government officials, community Berkstresser said that to help resileaders and members of the community. dents enjoy the new beach at the “It took some time, but I am very Preserve, the volleyball court was relocated and additional parking was also pleased with what has been accomadded. The planting of some native vegeplished and how things worked out,” Berkstresser said, adding that the compe- tation is now being completed. Apollo Beach is a 63-acre Preserve at the northtition of the $1.5 million project could not have been possible without the support of ern terminus of Apollo Beach. Its west the County and the members of the com- side, facing Tampa Bay, has been develmunity. “We are thankful for the communi- oped for recreational activities, while the ty’s generous support, the Hillsborough eastern portion has been restored to natBoard of County Commission, the County ural habitat consisting of dunes, islands, Parks department and its leadership the tidal marshes, and mangrove swamps. Hillsborough County Lands Management ABWIG is counting on the BOCC’s Department and, we owe a huge graticontinued support to maintain the chantude to Commissioner Sandra Murman, nels and to be prepared for the next for her commitment and dedication to round of dredging in 10-15 years. For more information visit support the project,” Berkstresser said. www.abwig.org or Apollo Beach The project itself involved the dredging of the three channels in Apollo Beach, Waterway Improvement Group on Facebook. including the North Channel, adjacent to

November 2016

Page 61

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop Offers Fun, Fresh, Flavors & Supports Teams Too

Blessings In A Backpack Feeds At Risk Students With Weekly Food Supply

restaurants throughout the region. Furthermore, the restaurant is known for its tacos and prices do vary. The tacos range from $1.99 to $2.99. Besides tacos, the restaurant does serve an array of other food items such as chips and queso, enchiladas, salads and much more. Also, diners can order alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages such as coffee, bottled water and beer just to name a few. Traveling to Baja “I would recomCalifornia, Texas and mend the California Mexico might be quite Heat Taco and the the trip for some. Diners Cilantro-Lime Rice at Fuzzy’s Taco Shop in as a go to for a food Brandon, can taste all here,” option of these flavors of the baja style tex-mex cui- Enchilada platter with chips and queso Lieberman said. Fuzzy’s Taco sine and save money. The family-orientShop runs specials Monday through ed restaurant provides a comfortable For instance, on Monday’s kid’s Sunday. atmosphere for individuals of all ages. eat free. Also, the restaurant offers $1.59 “We like to keep it simple with our on select tacos, all day happy hour and high quality fresh foods and fair prices,” $3 loaded Corona’s on Tuesday’s. Call said Ian Lieberman, owner of Fuzzy’s 324-7177 to find out a list of more speTaco Shop. cials. On February of this year, Fuzzy’s “As we continue to grow our restauTaco Shop in Brandon opened. The rants, we are committed to being active 4,300 sq. ft. building displays an ample in the community,” Lieberman said. amount of space for diners to choose For more information visit between indoor or outdoor patio seating. It is located at www.fuzzystacoshop.com. Also, the restaurant features a full serv2874 Providence Lakes Blvd. in ice bar. Along with that, an exhibit of flat Hours of operation are Monday Brandon. screen televisions can be seen both through Thursday 11 a.m.11 p.m., inside and outside the place. With over 100 stores, the family owned and operat- Friday through Saturday 11 a.m.- midnight and Sunday 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. ed national franchise aims to build more

When 195 stuschools and has also dents from low income stocked an in-school families at local elefood pantry at mentary schools go Armwood High home this Friday, they School. will have enough food One of the for the weekend schools that receives food every weekend thanks to a foundation for it’s students is started by a River Hills Ippolito Elementary in family. Riverview. The The Walker school’s social worker Thomas Lane River Hills resident and founder of The Angela Weck believes Foundation was creatWalker Thomas Lane Foundation Angel that the donations are ed when Angel and Tim Lane and Ippolito Elementary School Lane’s two year old son Social Worker Angela Weck work together life changing for the with Blessings in a Backpack to provide Walker passed away food to low income families over the week- students who receive ends during the school year. them. on February 20, 2013 “The program is from respiratory complireally filling a gap and impacting families cations from pneumonia. The Lanes, including Walker’s twin brother Jameson here in our community,” said Weck, who and older brother Braden, decided they explained that more than 80 percent of wanted to honor Walker by helping other the students at the school qualify for free children through a partnership with the or reduced lunches. The Walker Thomas Lane established charity Blessings in a Foundation is making it easy for residents Backpack. to help. Food can be dropped off at vari“There are so many children within ous locations around the community and our community that have food insecurities,” said Angel. “No child should ever be this month, Osprey Observer offices at 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. is acting as a worried about when they will get their drop off point for non-perishable food next meal, so we are helping change it.” items such as canned foods and soups, “Since starting our initiatives, we mac and cheese boxes, Ramen Noodles, have received an amazing amount of canned fruits and fruit cups, soft granola support, monetary donations and food bars, individual oatmeal packs and pudfrom local businesses, our church and ding cups. They request no peanut prodindividuals that have an amazing heart,” ucts, please. said Angel. “Our village of people are For more information on Blessings in helping make a difference in a child's life. a Backpack, visit www.blessingsinabackLiving generously is an amazing thing.” pack.org. The Lanes can be reached at Currently, the Lane’s foundation is 654-7307. helping children at four local elementary

By Tatiana Ortiz

Get It Listed! Get It SOLD!

By Kate Quesada

Call “The Tracy Team” PATRICIA TRACY Realtor

(813) 748-9364

Entertainment line-up is as follows:

Where your experience is our priority!

Contact the chamber for show times.

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Saturday: Ronnie Davis (Elvis/Oldies) •Kozmic Pearl • Broken Taillight • Zebron & James • Six Gun Republic • Spy vs. Spy Sunday: Christian Rock Band Ronnie Davis • La Lucha (Latin/Jazz)

S PARK E.G. SIMMON Seafood Satu

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You will love this beautiful well-maintained 4/ 2.5/2 +pool home. Bursts with pride of ownership. Lots of upgrades. Split plan + air conditioned Florida room. There is so much to see and do in your own recreational oasis! Plenty of land to play or garden. Two sheds + an extra 12 x 24 parking pad. Ready and waiting for your family to enjoy! $228,500

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Page 62

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Art Monkey Art & Ice Cream Welcomes New Owners

Staff Report

Art Monkey Art & Ice Cream, a pottery and art studio located in the heart of FishHawk Ranch in Park Square was opened by artist and innovator Bonnie Karet and husband Mark in 2011. She envisioned a gathering place where

munity event, Karet introduced the new owners, Liisa (s.i.c.) and Eric Soncrant. The Soncrant’s, with their two daughters Haven and Holland, will take over Art Monkey on November 1 and will continue The Soncrant’s are the new owners of Art Monkey in FishHawk and have two daughters to serve Haven and Holland. Fishhawk and the greater community. Most of the current Art Monkey staff will be staying on to help provide a seamless transition. “We couldn’t be more excited to take over for Bonnie and continue to provide this incredible atmosphere for area families. It’s a place our daughters have loved to go to and we wanted to make sure it was there for other kids as well,” said Liisa, who will run the day to day operations. The new owners have lived in the people would create, collaborate and area since 2004. They are active with develop as a community. Karet has done Tampa Bay Family Theatre, Brandon just that through community events raisSports and Aquatic Center, Blue Wave ing funds to support her charity Big, Big Swimming and attend St. Andrews United World. She also received much commuMethodist Church. nity support while she completed a sixArt Monkey is located in Park Square month Appalachian Trail Hike to help at 16144 Churchview Dr. In addition to raise additional funds for Big, Big World. Paint Your Own Pottery, Art Monkey Karet and husband Mark have relooffers 24 flavors of delicious all natural ice cated across the state due to a job cream, after school and homeschool change and have sold the business to a classes, canvas painting and more. new family. For more information call (813) 315During a recent Park Square com9803 or visit www.artandicecream.com.

Volume 15, Issue 11

Brandon Christian Church To Host 9th Annual Craft Bazaar

By Kathy L. Collins

Just in time for the There will be people in holidays, the Brandon the parking lot to Christian Church, locatassist shoppers. ed at 910 Bryan Rd. in Vendors receive free Brandon, is hosting its coffee during set up 9th Annual Craft Bazaar time. There will be on Saturday, December vendors located both 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. inside the church and The 9th Annual outside on the lovely Craft Bazaar features grounds of Brandon Christian Church. only hand crafted items. This is a fundraisThere are no commerer for the church. The cially produced prodbuilding is used by ucts. According to Betty many community Dawson, Coordinator of groups such as the the Annual Craft Girl Scouts and supBazaar,"There will not port groups. In addibe any Mary Kay 9th Annual Craft Bazaar enable the tion, members of the items, Tupperware church to do good things in the com- church help provide sales or jewelry venmunity such as providing meals for meals to clients of dors at the 9th Annual Meals on Wheels. Meals on Wheels. Craft Bazaar. Everything is handmade.” The church hosts families from the This is a great opportunity to get Greater Brandon Family Promise prounique holiday gifts for that friend or loved gram every quarter. one who seems to have everything. You Dawson said, "We see this event as an opportunity to present ourselves to the can find great gifts such as fused glass community. Funds raised at the 9th art, wood and acrylic pens and pencils, Annual Craft Bazaar enables us to prohand painted cards and posters, refurvide space for many community groups bished furniture, handmade doll clothes, Christmas ornaments, yard art and more. and support groups who need a place to meet but find it difficult to find one.” In In addition to hand crafted, one of a addition to Church services, the Brandon kind items, shoppers can look for tasty Christian Church hosts over two dozen treats at the bake sale featuring cookies, cakes and breads. Items in the bake sale groups including two other churches that hold service there. will cost anywhere from fifty cents to five For more information, visit www.brandollars. There will also be hot dogs and donchristianchurch.org or call Dawson at beverages available. 404-9393 or email bazaar@dawsonThe 9th Annual Craft Bazaar is free crew.com. to attend and there is no cost to park.

November 2016

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Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Artisan Aesthetics’ Dr. Castor Offers New Cellfina™ Treatment

Staff Report

Stan significant Castor, MD, improvement at Board-Certified three months, Plastic and those results Surgeon, are still evident announced that two years after Cellfina™, the treatment.” In the only FDApivotal study, 96 cleared, minimally invasive procedure clinically proven to treat the primary structural The Cellfina™ System is now being offered at cause of celpercent of Artisan Aesthetics’ Dr. Castor lulite for at Cellfina patients least two years, the longest FDA clear- were satisfied after two years surpassance for a cellulite treatment, is now ing satisfaction rates of other leading available at his practice, Artisan cellulite treatments. T Aesthetics. he in-office treatment takes less The Cellfina™ System treats the than an hour, depending on the numprimary structural cause of cellulite, ber of dimples being treated and the the connective bands woven throughpatient’s individual needs. It is a celout fat in the thighs and buttocks. lulite solution that doesn’t involve genThese tight bands pull down the eral anesthesia, so afterward patients skin, creating the puckering you see are able to go about their day. on the surface of the skin. Similar to a “Cellfina is unique because it rubber band under tension, once treats the primary structural cause, it’s released, the treated skin bounces a minimally invasive procedure and its back to smooth itself out in as little as effects last at least two years, the three days. longest FDA clearance for a cellulite Cellfina is a straightforward solutreatment,” said Dr. Castor. tion to cellulite that combines a proven “The result is a smoother and approach with innovative, proprietary healthier look that gives my patients technology, for an effective treatment the confidence to wear shorts, yoga that produces precise, long-lasting pants or a bathing suit again.” results in a single doctor’s office visit. For an appointment or more infor“With Cellfina the results last,” said mation, call 971-2000 or visit Dr. Castor. “Patients typically notice www.DrCastor.com.

The HydraFacial

™

Resurfacing procedure thoroughly cares for your skin: Ranked above the IPL, the HydraFacial™ is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that delivers instant results with no discomfort or downtime. Fine lines and wrinkles are less noticeable, skin is firmer and more elastic and is more vibrant. The HydraFacial™ can do it all. This State of the Art Facial System is now available, schedule your appointment today, for immediately radiant and healthier skin!

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Page 64

Volume 15, Issue 11

Bloomingdale/ FishHawk Edition

Signature Realty Associates

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